Barnesville Hospital

H2O Challenge Water Aerobics Offered by Barnesville Hospital

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 00:00:00 EDT

Looking for a challenging cardiovascular workout minus the impact of the floor? H2O Challenge is for you! With cooperation from the Village of Barnesville, Barnesville Hospital's Rehabilitation Department is offering a water aerobics class taught by a Licensed Physical Therapist. This class is a mixed intensity workout designed for all fitness levels. The participant is instructed through a range of exercises, done mostly vertically and without swimming, that create resistance work with a cardio focus. In addition to the standard benefits of any exercise, the use of water in water aerobics supports the body and reduces the risk of muscle or joint injury. The use of gravity by floatation places less stress on the joints when stretching and can allow a greater range of motion. Exercise in the water can also prevent overheating through continuous cooling of the body. Weather permitting, classes will be held at the Barnesville Pool each Monday from 6:00 -7:00 p.m., running from June 24th through August 12th. No swimming experience or equipment, other than a bathing suit, is required. Cost is $5.00 per person per class.

Barnesville Hospital Melvin Creeley Environmental Award Winner

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 00:00:00 EDT

The Ohio Hospital Association (OHA) has named Barnesville Hospital as one of the 12 recipients of the Melvin Creeley Environmental Leadership Award for its efforts to reduce waste, prevent pollution, and comply with environmental regulations. The award recognizes health systems that promote sound environmental practices through environmental stewardship and exemplifying the best practices for other hospitals to follow. The award is named after the retired president and CEO of East Liverpool City Hospital, Melvin Creeley, who chaired OHAâs Environmental Leadership Council from its inception in 2001 to 2010. Specifically, Barnesville Hospital has implemented waste reduction programs, recycling initiatives and other activities to preserve the health of the planet for future generations. Among its many environmental accomplishments, Barnesville Hospital continues recycling programs for cardboard, shredded confidential documents, mixed plastics, mixed glass, steel & aluminum cans, motor oil, computers, mixed paper, batteries, mixed scrap metals, & used linens. Additionally, outdated medical & surgical supplies are donated to support care missions in third-world countries. In 2012, Barnesville Hospital processed almost 200 ton of waste through its waste stream. This included such things as solid waste, recyclable solids, regulated medical waste, hazardous waste, and recycled hazardous wastes. The recycling campaign has continued to grow. With the support of the Green Team Committee, efforts have expanded to Morristown Clinic, Morristown Pharmacy and Homecare, and Barnesville Medical Center. In addition, thermometer exchanges and pharmaceutical take-back events are being held throughout the service area. Barnesville Hospital has previously been recognized on a national level as a leader in reducing mercury in healthcare and as a recipient of the Partner for Change Award for environmental stewardship.

Open Position: Insurance Biller

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 00:00:00 EDT

Must be a high school graduate or equivalent. Must possess good computer skills, communication and organizational skills in order to prepare, submit claims and correspond with insurance companies. Knowledge of medical terminology and previous health care billing experience preferred.

Open Position: General Manager

Fri, 31 May 2013 00:00:00 EDT

Must have Healthcare/Management experience, be highly motivated, work well independently, and enjoy a challenge. The job requirements include responsibility for the daily operations of the retail pharmacy and Medical Equipment Provider including but not limited to operations, finance and marketing. Prefer applicants with a Bachelors Degree and experience with QS1 information technology.

Open Position: Pharmacy Technician

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 EDT

Must be a high school graduate and have knowledge of medications and pharmacy computer systems. Prior customer service experience highly desirable. Must be a certified Pharmacy Technician in Ohio or working towards certification.

Barnesville Hospital Sponsors Mercury Thermometer Exchange

Tue, 14 May 2013 00:00:00 EDT

Barnesville Hospital is sponsoring a mercury thermometer exchange on Friday, May 24th from 7 am –noon in the hospital lobby. A free digital thermometer will be provided for every mercury thermometer which is brought in. Funding for this event is provided through the Ohio Environmental Education Fund Grant. Mercury is toxic and can negatively impact people, especially children, and wildlife when released into the environment. Mercury can be absorbed through the skin, inhaled or ingested. Mercury metal is a liquid at room temperature and readily turns into vapor in the air. Children and fetuses are at the greatest risk for health problems due to mercury since their nervous system is still developing. “Barnesville Hospital’s Green Team has been instrumental in exploring ways to recycle materials at the hospital and has also been active in pursuing opportunities to keep our community safe,” said Michael Carpenter, Facilities Director. “Each year the hospital recycles over 33 tons of solids and over 1000 lbs. of hazardous waste. The Mercury Thermometer Exchange is one additional way we can benefit our community.” For additional information regarding the Mercury Thermometer Exchange please call 740-425-5109.

Open Position: CCU Registered Nurse

Fri, 03 May 2013 00:00:00 EDT

Requirements: Graduate of approved school of nursing and currently licensed by the Ohio State Board of Nursing. Must have ACLS certification, or willingness to complete. Must be able to accept multiple tasks and assignments, possess good organizational skills, and work well with others. Previous Critical Care experience and training preferred. 1 year Med/Surg experience desired.

Open Position: Inpatient Coder

Fri, 03 May 2013 00:00:00 EDT

Must have previous experience coding in a hospital setting. Must be CCS certified or RHIT certified. Working knowledge of ICD-10 coding is a plus.

Barnesville Hospital Celebrates National Hospital Week

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 00:00:00 EDT

Accidents happen. Illnesses occur. Skilled nursing care and rehabilitation are needed. As they happen, there’s one place you can rely on in good times and bad – Barnesville Hospital. Barnesville Hospital is more than a place where people go to heal, it is a part of the community that fosters health and represents hope. From providing treatment and comfort to the sick, to providing care and compassion to the dying and their families, Barnesville Hospital is focused on its’ mission of “improving the community’s health.” Barnesville Hospital joins in the nation's most traditional health care event uniting nearly 6,000 hospitals, over five million health care workers, and communities across the country during its May 12-18, 2013 celebration of National Hospital Week. According to Peggy Douglass, R.N., Director of Education & Outreach, Barnesville Hospital epitomizes this year’s theme, “A Guiding Light for Changing Times.” With its outstanding staff, state-of-the-art equipment, and advanced technology, Barnesville Hospital has evolved into an award winning facility, having been named a HealthStrong® Award recipient for the second consecutive year. “National Hospital Week, first and foremost, is a celebration of people,” Dave Phillips, CEO of Barnesville Hospital, said. “We’re extremely proud of each member of our staff and we recognize the important role they play in extending a sense of trust to our patients and our communities.” The nation’s largest health care event, National Hospital Week dates back to 1921 when it was suggested by a magazine editor who hoped a community wide celebration would alleviate public fears about hospitals. The celebration, launched in Chicago, succeeded in promoting trust and goodwill among members of the public and eventually spread to facilities across the country. Be part of the many great things happening at Barnesville Hospital during National Hospital Week. Community and hospital activities planned for 2013 include: “Perry in the Morning” - The WBNV morning show will broadcast live from Barnesville Hospital on Monday, May 13th from 7:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Tune in to 93.5-FM to become better informed about services available at Barnesville Hospital. Adult Heartsaver CPR -This program will be offered Tuesday, May 14th, beginning at 6:00 p.m. Being prepared and knowing what to do in the event of a cardiac or respiratory arrest could help save the life of someone you love. There will be no charge for the CPR course; however, to provide individualized instruction, class size is limited and pre-registration is required. The course will be held in the Classroom at Barnesville Hospital. For registration or additional information, call 425-5158. In addition to community events, hospital employees will be honored at the 30th Annual Employee Service Awards Banquet on Wednesday, May 15th. Beth Brill, Director of Human Resources at Barnesville Hospital states, “All employees demonstrate the attributes of CARE, Courtesy, Attitude, Respect, Enthusiasm.” Throughout the year, staff selects a Caregiver of the Month. The highlight of the evening is when one of these selections is named Caregiver of the Year. A variety of other activities are planned during the week as an expression of gratitude to the employees for their service to Barnesville Hospital and the community. For more information, call Peggy Douglass at (740) 425-5158.

Barnesville hospital officials talk about Medicaid expansion debate, effects on patients

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 EDT

In the debate over Medicaid expansion, rural area hospitals in Ohio have the most to lose, including possible cuts to the number of patients they can treat, hospital officials said. Barnesville Hospital, a nonprofit and independent facility, served 35,000 people this past year, and a good number of those patients treated are uninsured or can't pay for medical care. Many residents travel from nearby counties, like Noble and Monroe, to Barnesville Hospital because it is the closest medical facility. "I think where it would potentially make a difference is in the aspect of -- people that are uninsured may wait to seek services. And when they wait, typically, they come to a hospital emergency room or to a physician's office when they're at their sickest point," said David Phillips, the chief executive director at Barnesville Hospital. Phillips said they provided more than $2 million in care to the uninsured in the past year. Democratic lawmakers argue services, like mental health and child abuse care, as well as staffing, would be affected if the expansion isn't on the budget. "We can't say at this point that staffing would go down. What we can say at this point is, it would have a negative impact on the hospital,” said Phillips. Republicans said the costs are too high. "When you look at what is needed in terms of being able to provide quality health care services, those costs only continue to rise," said Phillips. But officials said community hospitals are very important. Workers said the proximity of this facility for residents can be the difference in life-or-death situations, since staff can treat or stabilize patients in Barnesville. If the expansion is tacked onto the budget, it would give the hospital about 1,000 more people to serve, Phillips said. Story by Briona Arradondo WTOV9.com Posted: 6:23 p.m. Thursday, April 18, 2013

OHA Award Nominee John Sawvel

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 00:00:00 EDT

Congratulations to John Sawvel of Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc., nominated for OHA's 2013 Albert E. Dyckes Health Care Worker of the Year award! "John leads by example of incredible work ethic, must-do attitude and genuine concern for patients and co-workers. John always makes time to listen and offer assistance if possible."

Barnesville Hospital Encourages You to Share the Gift of Life

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:00:00 EDT

Each day, 18 people die waiting for organ transplants that didn't come in time. This year, Barnesville Hospital has joined the Ohio Hospital Association Donate Life Partnership to help save lives by educating our community about the importance of organ, eye and tissue donation and increasing the number of registered donors. Peggy Douglass, Director of Education & Outreach at Barnesville Hospital, encourages you to join her in support of this cause by registering today. "The lack of registered donors in America results in a tragic loss of life every day, but there is a known solution," said Douglass. "By registering as a donor, you have the unique opportunity to give hope to the 3,400 Ohioans awaiting life-saving transplants." Advances in medical science have made transplant surgery extremely successful. Transplantation is no longer considered experimental, but rather a desirable treatment option for end-stage organ failure. The major problem is that there are thousands of Americans waiting for a match so that they can have a second chance at life, yet there are not enough organ donors to meet the growing need. You can help with three easy steps. First, visit www.DonateLifeOhio.org to learn more about donation and how to register. Do not be discouraged by your age or past medical history -- anyone can be a potential donor. Organs are matched through the United Network for Organ Sharing based on body size, blood type, medical urgency and geographic location as it relates to travel time. When it comes to saving lives, doctors do not discriminate on account of race, gender, age or any other factor. Second, talk about your decision with family members. Joining the Ohio Donor Registry is considered an advance directive for individuals over the age of 18, but sharing your donation wishes with your family and educating them about donation can help them feel comfortable with your decision and may encourage them to register as well. You can even share your donation preference on Facebook, using the "Life Events" feature on your Timeline. Finally, tell others about the need in our community, and how every person can make a difference. One person has the potential to save eight lives through organ donation, and enhance 50 more through cornea and tissue donation. "The need is real and occurring in our very own community," said Mrs. Douglass. "It's time for our community to understand the donation process, de-bunk the myths and make educated decisions to provide a second chance for thousands of people and their families each year." Lifeline of Ohio has designated Friday, April 19, 2013 as National Blue and Green Day. Think BLUE! Think GREEN! Think BLUE & GREEN! Wear the colors to offer HOPE to the more than 117,000 Americans waiting for a life-saving transplant; HONOR the heroes of organ, eye, and tissue donation; REMEMBER those who died waiting for their second chance at life; and CELEBRATE the recipients who received the "Gift of Life"through transplantation. Visit www.DonateLifeOhio.org to learn more about donation and to register online.

Barnesville Hospital Named HealthStrong™ Top 100 Critical Access Hospital

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 00:00:00 EDT

For the second consecutive year, Barnesville Hospital has been ranked one of the HealthStrong™ Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) in the United States. “Barnesville Hospital is proud of the efforts of its physicians and staff who have contributed to our hospital achieving this designation,” said David Phillips, Barnesville Hospital Chief Executive Officer. "The services we provide here at Barnesville Hospital are essential to the health of the community. The community can expect to continue to be served with the same reliable, consistent patient care that has made us a Top 100 Hospital." The HealthStrong™ Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals, including Barnesville Hospital, scored best among critical access hospitals on the iVantage Health Analytics’ Hospital Strength Index™. The 2013 Top 100 CAH announcement is the second release of this important designation. The Hospital Strength Index is first-ever comprehensive rating of CAHs and the results recognize the Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals that provide a “safety- net “to communities across rural America – measuring them across 56 different performance metrics, including quality, outcomes, patient perspective, affordability and efficiency. “Rural hospitals play a critical role in providing needed care to communities across America, yet the challenges are completely different while being as complex as urban hospitals. The need for enhanced performance and a framework for success are equally important as hospitals prepare for the impact of health reform,” said John Morrow, EVP of iVantage Health Analytics. Barnesville Hospital is a charitable, not-for-profit organization, which is dedicated to improving the community's health. Barnesville Hospital is Medicare certified and has been fully accredited by the Joint Commission, whose accreditation is recognized nationwide as a symbol of quality. For more information, go to www.BarnesvilleHospital.com.

American Cancer Grant Benefits Cancer Survivors at Barnesville Hospital

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 00:00:00 EST

Funding received through the American Cancer Society Virginia Gasaway Community Investment Grant allowed Barnesville Hospital to purchase a chair to assist in the treatment of lymphedema. Lymphedema is a common problem that can be caused by cancer and cancer treatments. It is the build-up of fluid in soft body tissues when the lymph system is damaged or blocked. Judy Barrick, a Registered Occupational Therapist at Barnesville Hospital, is a certified lymphedema therapist. “Patients are thrilled with the comfort of the new chair. It is so much easier to treat patients,” said Judy. “The reclining chair increases patients comfort, reduces respiratory distress, and increases safety.“ Lymphedema treatments can reduce swelling and decrease the risk of infection. The treatment includes skin care, massage, special bandaging, exercises, and fitting for a compression sleeve or stocking. The goal is to increase patient mobility and to restore the patient to a functional and healthier lifestyle. Funding was also used to purchase compression sleeves used in the treatment of lymphedema. “We are extremely grateful to the American Cancer Society for the funding to assist us to care for cancer patients and cancer survivors,” said David Phillips, Chief Executive Officer. “The chair and the lymphedema sleeves help us to improve the quality of life of our patents. The Gasaway funding is positively impacting the lives of cancer patients and survivors in our community.” To learn more about the treatment of lymphedema, contact Judy Barrick at 740-425-5110.

Open Position: Med/Surg LPN

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 00:00:00 EST

Must be a graduate of an accredited school of practical nursing, currently licensed in the State of Ohio. Must be CPR certified and be able to pass medications. Good communication skills and flexibility with scheduling required. Prefer 1 year of med/surg experience.

CHANEY RECOGNIZED FOR INCREDIBLE 50 YEARS OF HOSPITAL TRUSTEE SERVICE

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 EST

Lifelong Barnesville resident and attorney William E. Chaney was recently recognized by the Barnesville Hospital Board of Trustees for an incredible 50 years of volunteer service on the hospital’s Board. Chaney began his service on the hospital Board in January 1963. During the ceremony Chaney was awarded a resolution of Humanitarian Achievement by the hospital as well as Proclamations of Commendation from both The American Hospital Association and the Ohio Hospital Association. At the closing of the ceremony the Boardroom was officially renamed “The William E. Chaney Boardroom”. Former CEO and fellow Board Member Rick Doan remarked, “Bill’s faithful service and guidance to the hospital has been invaluable to its growth and prosperity. I will always be grateful for his loyal attendance, wise and mediating manner, and his dedication to our vital community resource.” Chief Executive Officer David Phillips stated, “Mr. Chaney’s service on this Board has been an incredible humanitarian effort rarely achieved. Our hospital staff, Medical Staff, volunteers and community owe a tremendous gratitude.” Mr. Chaney is a graduate of Ohio Wesleyan University and a 1953 graduate of the Ohio State University School of Law. He returned to his hometown of Barnesville that year to join his father, John H. Chaney, and establish Chaney & Chaney, Attorneys At Law at 101 East Main Street where he still practices. In 1954 he married Kay Evans and they actually resided for a short time in a small apartment on the second floor behind the law office. The Chaney’s still reside in Barnesville and are the parents of two children, Dan of Georgia, and Linda of Michigan, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Mr. Chaney’s contribution to local health care extends beyond Barnesville Hospital. 40 years ago he legally organized Barnesville Health Services which is now Ohio Hills Health Services, a Federally Qualified Health Clinic. OHHS, also a charitable organization, serves residents of three counties with locations in Barnesville, Woodsfield and Freeport. Federal funding supplements OHHS’ efforts to provide health services to financially disadvantaged and medically underserved populations and includes behavioral health and dental services. Mr. Chaney was a charter Board member when this organization opened 37 years ago in 1976 and he continues to serve on their Board today. During many of Mr. Chaney’s years on the hospital Board he served as Chairman of the Executive Committee translating into many additional meetings and hours of service devoted to addressing the hospital’s most urgent and difficult issues. When asked about the most challenging moments he remarked “…very complex Medical Staff issues, and recruiting qualified doctors to a smaller community. We’ve done extremely well and have an outstanding Medical Staff and hospital staff. I sincerely hope the community fully appreciates how fortunate we are to have such an excellent hospital and health care in this small town.”

Open Position: LPN

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 EST

Requirements: Must be a graduate of an accredited school of practical nursing, currently licensed in the State of Ohio. Must be CPR certified and be able to pass medications. Good communication skills and flexibility with scheduling required. Prefer 1 year of med/surg experience.

Barnesville Hospital: Providing Quality Care to All Generations

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 00:00:00 EST

There is roughly a 1 in 10,000 probability of a family having five living generations in the United States, with most likely about a couple hundred examples nationwide, said Shripad Tuljapurkar, a Stanford University professor of population studies and biology. The James A. Burcher family, of Barnesville, is one of those families. Not only that, but they all five generations received services at Barnesville Hospital in the past year. Mr. Burcher, his great grandson, and his great, great grandson had inpatient hospital stays in the past year, while his daughter and granddaughter utilized Barnesville Hospital for outpatient services. According to Ron Bischof, Mr. Burcher’s son-in-law and Mayor of Barnesville, “We are very pleased with the wonderful care all members of our family received, not only this year but in years past as well.” Mr. Burcher, age 103, has had several inpatient stays at Barnesville Hospital over the last five years. “We firmly believe that Dad receives the best care in the valley right here at Barnesville Hospital. When Dad became ill in June 2007,” states Mayor Bischof, “he was very frightened, as were his daughter, Nancy, and I. The very compassionate hospital staff calmed his fears as well as our own.” The family credits Bridget DeLaney, the hospital’s Social Worker, with assisting in his placement at a local nursing home where he has been residing since. Nancy Bischof states, “We believe the Barnesville Hospital staff is the finest.” In addition to his wife’s family, Mayor Bischof has also taken advantage of Barnesville Hospital’s services. In 1999, Bischof was diagnosed and successfully treated for leptospirosis, a very rare blood infection, averaging about 110 diagnosed cases annually in this country. In 2008, following cardiac bypass surgery, Bischof utilized the Cardiac Rehabilitation services provided at the hospital. Mayor Bischof summarized by saying, “We really believe in Barnesville Hospital and have great trust in the quality and very caring staff. We are truly blessed to have Barnesville Hospital in our community.”

Barnesville Hospital Embarks on 21st Century Electronic Health Record

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 EST

Barnesville Hospital is undertaking a major transformation in how staff provides care when it rolls out a new electronic health record (EHR) in January 2013. Factors, such as healthcare reform, decreasing reimbursements, and increased regulatory complexity, are some of the challenges that Barnesville Hospital faces in navigating today’s rapidly changing healthcare environment. The new EHR, McKesson Paragon®, will provide the foundation to meet these challenges. Built on a Microsoft Windows-based platform, Paragon® is a fully integrated, clinical and financial information system, designed to meet the needs of all hospitals, regardless of size. "What we are doing right now at Barnesville Hospital will change the way we deliver health care to the community forever. Technology is changing the way we deliver that care,” states David Phillips, CEO of Barnesville Hospital. “The implementation of the electronic health record system will allow a coordination of care among all areas of the healthcare community. While it is government mandate, it will ultimately lead to better communication of patient information, enhanced access to health information and a more informed healthcare consumer in the coming years.” With passage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), the federal government allocated $27 billion to encourage the health care industry to adopt information technology in three stages through 2015. To qualify for funds, hospitals and physicians practices must meet standards related to improving quality, safety, efficiency and reducing health disparities; engaging patients and families in their care; improving care coordination; improving population and public health; and maintaining privacy and security. Over the last 11 months, more than 50 Barnesville Hospital staff members have dedicated time to the EHR project, designing a system which accurately & completely documents patient care, while meeting the needs of hospital staff. According to Tiffany Gramby, RHIA, Barnesville Hospital’s Project Manager, “It’s no surprise to me that the staff at Barnesville Hospital stepped up to the challenge and worked tirelessly as a team to create a system that will enhance the delivery of patient care and give us the tools we need to work more efficiently. We have a fantastic team here at Barnesville. A team that is always willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done and to do it with excellence.” Over 100 additional computers and work stations are being rolled out throughout the hospital. The new EHR will allow staff access to patient information at any time, from anywhere. Physicians will be able to access the system through a secure web portal. While patients can still expect the same personalized, quality care that Barnesville Hospital is recognized for providing, patients need to expect some longer wait times as staff transition from paper to largely electronic records. Not only are caregivers becoming accustomed to a new way of documenting provision of patient care, they are learning new work flows. An electronic health record is more than just a computerized version of a paper chart. Because it will serve as an electronic storage “hub” for all a patient’s medical records, the EHR will take staff longer to input the initial information. There are a variety of different types and sources of information that makes up a medical record – medical history, including diagnoses, medications, and allergies; immunization history; lab results; and medical images coming from current and past doctors, emergency facilities, and clinics. Ultimately, through the advancement of health information exchange capabilities, the information can move with a patient – to the specialist, the hospital, the nursing home, the next state, or even across the country. EHR Fast Facts: Doctors and nurses will have instant computer access to patient information no matter the caregiver’s location, eliminating reliance on paper records and saving precious time. The EHR will be secure, meaning only medical personnel involved in treatment can access the information. The EHR will automatically cross-check medications against other prescribed drugs, diagnoses, and lab results, and suggest possible changes in treatment. The EHR will offer enormous savings in the use and cost of paper.

Barnesville Hospital and Morristown Pharmacy Reassure Patients About Safety of Pharmaceuticals

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 00:00:00 EDT

In light of the recent national news about the fungal meningitis outbreak that resulted from a steroid injection commonly used for back pain, Barnesville Hospital and Morristown Pharmacy want to assure our patients, staff and community that the products in question have not been used at Barnesville Hospital or Morristown Pharmacy. Our pharmacies at either location have never purchased any of our medications from the New England Compounding Center (NECC). While the hospital stocks methylprednisolone acetate injection, we only obtain this medication, called Depo-Medrol, from the national manufacturer, Pfizer. Barnesville Hospital does not perform intrathecal injections of steroids. The FDA most recently issued a statement concerning another recalled NECC product called triamcinolone. Barnesville Hospital only purchases this injectable steroid, called Kenalog, from Bristol Myers Squibb, another national manufacturer. Below are some frequently asked questions concerning this fungal meningitis outbreak per FDA’s website (fda.gov). If you have any questions about this matter, please contact the Hospital Pharmacy at 425-5108. Questions and Answers on Fungal Meningitis Outbreak Q1. What is FDA’s role in the investigation? ANSWER: FDA was been working closely with CDC, several state health departments, and the Massachusetts Board of Pharmacy to investigate the scope and cause of the outbreak of fungal meningitis. FDA inspectors in the New England District Office, in cooperation with the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Pharmacy, have been conducting an inspection of the New England Compounding Center. FDA has confirmed the presence of a fungal contaminant in multiple sealed vials of methylprednisolone acetate collected from NECC, and is in the process of conducting additional testing to confirm the species of the fungus. Q2. Is New England Compounding Center still producing sterile injectable products? ANSWER: No. The firm voluntarily ceased all operations and surrendered its license to the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Pharmacy on October 3, 2012. NECC has also announced a voluntary recall of all of their products. Q3. What should health care providers do to protect their patients from the threat of potential contamination? ANSWER: Although the investigation into the source of the outbreak is still ongoing, if you have purchased a product from NECC, we are advising you not to use it at this time. Please see the CDC website for additional information. See Q9 regarding advice to health care providers related to the additional injectable products, including an ophthalmic drug that is injectable or used in conjunction with eye surgery, or a cardioplegic solution purchased from or produced by NECC. Q4. Are there other FDA approved epidural steroid injections that can be used? ANSWER: There are FDA approved versions of methylprednisolone acetate injection on the market, available with or without preservatives. The FDA-approved products are not approved for epidural administration. Q5. Does FDA anticipate a shortage of epidural steroid injection drug supply? ANSWER: No. FDA’s drug shortage office has confirmed that NECC’s voluntary shutdown will not affect the nationwide supply of methylprednisolone acetate. Additional Patient Notification Advisory Q6. What led FDA to take this action? ANSWER: As a result of FDA, CDC, and state health departments’ ongoing investigation of contamination at the New England Compounding Center’s (NECC) Framingham, Massachusetts facility, we have learned that two patients may have infections associated with other possibly contaminated NECC products. While the investigation of these patients is ongoing, and there may be other explanations for their infections, out of an abundance of caution, we are issuing new guidance for providers to contact their patients for whom they administered an injectable product, including an ophthalmic drug that is injectable or used in conjunction with eye surgery, or a cardioplegic solution purchased from or produced by NECC after May 21, 2012. With regard to the two patients who are being evaluated, we can provide the following information. One patient, identified through active surveillance, is under investigation for possible meningitis potentially associated with epidural injection of an additional NECC product, triamcinolone acetonide. Triamcinolone acetonide is a type of steroid injectable product made by NECC. FDA-approved triamcinolone acetonide is approved for intra-articular (within a joint) or soft tissue injection. The cases of meningitis identified to date have all been associated with methylprednisolone acetate, another similar steroid injectable product. In addition, one heart transplant patient with Aspergillus fumigatus infection who was administered NECC cardioplegic solution during surgery has been reported. Investigation of these patients is ongoing, and, there may be other explanations for their Aspergillus infection. Cardioplegic solution is used to induce cardiac muscle paralysis during open heart surgery to prevent injury to the heart. At this time, no patients are under investigation in connection with any NECC-produced ophthalmic drug that is injectable or used in conjunction with eye surgery, but FDA believes this class of products could present potentially similar risks of infection because of concerns about sterility. Q7: Does FDA believe these products are contaminated with the same fungus as the methylprednisolone acetate? ANSWER: At this point in the investigation, FDA analysis of triamcinolone acetonide collected from the health care facility that reported the new meningitis case is being cultured, and we will release results when available. Q8: Does FDA believe all products compounded by NECC are at risk? ANSWER: The investigation is ongoing. On October 4, we urged providers not to use any products made at NECC. At this point in FDA’s investigation, the sterility of any injectable drugs, including ophthalmic drugs that are injectable or used in conjunction with eye surgery, and cardioplegic solutions produced by NECC are of significant concern. Q9: What should HCPs and patients do who were given these products? ANSWER: The FDA has previously issued guidance for medical professionals that all products distributed by NECC should be retained, secured, and withheld from use. NECC has voluntarily recalled all products that it has distributed. Based on new information, FDA advises that if, after May 21, 2012, a health care professional administered to a patient an injectable product, including an ophthalmic drug that is injectable or used in conjunction with eye surgery, or a cardioplegic solution purchased from or produced by NECC, the healthcare professional should follow up with those patients and make sure the patients are aware of the signs and symptoms of infection and instruct them to contact their health care provider immediately if they have any of these symptoms. Products from NECC can be identified by markings that indicate New England Compounding Center by name or by its acronym (NECC), and/or the company logo. At this time, FDA is not advising health care professionals to contact patients who have been administered lower risk NECC products such as topicals (for example, lotions, creams, eyedrops not used in conjunction with surgery) and suppositories. Patients who believe they received an injection or other product compounded by NECC after May 21, 2012 should remain vigilant for the signs and symptoms of infection, including meningitis. The signs and symptoms of meningitis include fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea and vomiting, photophobia (sensitivity to light) and altered mental status. Symptoms for other possible infections may include fever; swelling, increasing pain, redness, warmth at injection site; visual changes, pain, redness or discharge from the eye; chest pain, or drainage from the surgical site (infection within the chest). Patients should contact their healthcare provider if they have any of these signs or symptoms. Q10: FDA is advising doctors to contact any of the patients to whom they have administered an NECC injectable drug, including ophthalmic products or cardioplegic solutions, after May 21, 2012. How many products does that encompass? ANSWER: NECC has provided a list of products that they have produced and distributed, which can be found and accessed. There are about 1200 products on that list. A large percentage of these products are injectables, including ophthalmic products that are injectable or used in conjunction with eye surgery and cardioplegic solutions. FDA is working with NECC to produce a specific list of injectables, including ophthalmic products and cardioplegic solutions, and will post that as soon as possible. Q11: What steps should health care professionals take to communicate with patients? ANSWER: FDA recognizes that some health care professionals may receive a high volume of calls from patients or be concerned about having to notify many patients as a result of FDA’s recommendation. FDA defers to the clinical judgment of healthcare professionals to decide the appropriate communications mode, whether it is email, phone (including voicemails), letter, or otherwise. Face-to-face communication with patients is not necessary to notify patients. Q12: Are the FDA-approved versions of triamcinolone acetonide contraindicated for epidural administration? ANSWER: FDA-approved triamcinolone acetonide is approved for intra-articular (within a joint) or soft tissue injection. The FDA-approved triamcinolone acetonide is not approved for spinal injections.

Switzerland of Ohio Local School District and Barnesville Hospital Work Together to Offer a Concussion Management Program

Thu, 04 Oct 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Switzerland of Ohio Local School District has partnered with Barnesville Hospital to offer a program to Prevent Post Concussion Syndrome in High School Athletes. The testing of junior high and high school athletes began in August under the supervision of Neil Ritchie, Assistant Superintendent. This free concussion management program was made possible by a grant through Multiplan, Inc. “All concussions are serious. It is important for area athletes to receive an evaluation which will assist to determine if a concussion has occurred and when it is safe to return to play their sport,” said Dr. Shaun Roe, Morristown Family Practice Center. “It is better for an athlete to miss one game then the entire season.” The MultiPlan grant will allow for optimal injury recovery and help to prevent unnecessary traumatic brain injury for area athletes. Students received a baseline test through ImPACT’s concussion management program. Dr. Roe will provide consultation to the Athletic Directors and coaches at area schools regarding the implementation of the Concussion Management System. “The recognition and proper response to concussions when they first occur can help prevent further injury. It is important for athletes and parents to understand that even a “ding,” “getting your bell rung,” or what seems to be mild bump or blow to the head can be serious,” said Ritchie. “We are pleased we were able to implement this worthwhile program at no cost to our school district.” School districts participating in the MultiPlan concussion management grant though Barnesville Hospital include Barnesville Village Exempted School District, Union Local School District, and Switzerland of Ohio Local School District.

Morristown Family Medicine Advises Flu Vaccine

Thu, 04 Oct 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Influenza is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death. Every flu season is different and can affect people differently. “Even very healthy people can get very sick from the flu and spread it to others,” states Dr. Joseph Durkalski. Everyone who is at least 6 months of age should get the flu vaccine especially if they are high risk of developing complications, like pneumonia, if they get sick with the flu. Medical conditions that may be more high risk are those with asthma, diabetes, chronic lung disease, pregnant women and people 65 years and older. The Flu vaccine causes antibodies to develop in your body about two weeks after getting the vaccine and will lessen the chance that you will get the flu or spread it to others. The seasonal flu vaccine protects against three influenza viruses that research indicates will be the most common during the upcoming season. Dr. Shaun Roe states that is very important to note that the viruses in the flu shot are killed (inactivated), so you cannot get the flu from the flu shot! Morristown will be holding Flu Shot clinics for their patients on a first come first serve basis: October 19th and 26th from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM And 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM.

Local Woman Realizes a Dream

Thu, 27 Sep 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Lana Melanko, R.N., Group Practice Coordinator of Morristown Family Medicine, is pleased to announce the recent addition of Carissa Allen, PA-C, Physician Assistant, to the Morristown Family Medicine staff. Mrs. Allen grew up in Barnesville, surrounded by a large family, and is a graduate of Barnesville High School. She attended Marietta College where she received a Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences and graduated in July with a Master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies. Recently married to Blake Allen, they reside in Barnesville. When asked what stimulated her interest in healthcare, Carissa said, “My mother is a nurse and I was able to witness firsthand the difference that she made in people’s lives. She has shared with me the joys she has experienced through healthcare and it made me realize that this is an amazing career to be in.” “My most gratifying healthcare experiences,” according to Mrs. Allen, “have come from being able to work with local doctors and provide healthcare to people I have known my entire life. This is part of the reason I am so excited to be working with Dr. Durkalski and Dr. Roe at Morristown Family Medicine.” Mrs. Allen believes one of the biggest challenges facing healthcare today is the integration of new technology into daily practice. She understands that, while adjusting to change is difficult for both patients and healthcare staff, it is a definite benefit in providing safe, efficient healthcare to patients. With a special interest in women’s health and pediatrics, Carissa will be seeing patients of all ages and backgrounds at Morristown Family Medicine. She will work with the practices of Dr. Joseph Durkalski and Dr. Shaun Roe. Morristown Family Medicine is part of Belmont Professional Associates. BPA is a multi-specialty physician group serving the area. BPA is a subsidiary of Barnesville Hospital. To schedule an appointment, call (740) 782-1031. Visit their website at www.belmontprofessionalassociates.com and “Like” them on Facebook.

Barnesville Hospital Promotes Donor Registry Enrollment

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Last year approximately 28,000 Americans received a life-saving organ transplant and more than one million Americans received a life-changing tissue transplant. When just one individual makes the decision to donate, they can change the lives of more than 50 others. For those who have been blessed with good health, the thought of needing a life-saving organ transplant to survive has probably never crossed their mind. However, for the more than 115,000 Americans awaiting a life-saving transplant, this is everyday life. Tim Jones of Cambridge is one of those who has been positively affected by organ transplant. Tim, a heart transplant recipient learned of his heart condition at the age of 14, when his doctor realized his aortic valve was leaking. Despite several surgeries over the course of his life, Tim received the devastating news that he would need a heart transplant in the future to survive. Fortunately, Tim was one of the lucky ones; he received his new heart July 2, 2004, thanks to the gift of a selfless stranger. Tim credits his full life to that of his hero Patty, an organ donor who saved his life. “Without her gift, I would not be golfing, watching the Buckeyes, volunteering for Lifeline of Ohio, increasing what I consider to be my extended family, meeting so many wonderful people at my school talks and health fairs, participating in the U.S. Transplant Games (loosely speaking!) and most importantly, keeping Patty’s name alive, in honor of her generous act of heroism. Patty saved four lives that day.” Although Tim was lucky to have received his new heart, sadly, not everyone is that lucky. The national waiting list is rising at a disturbing rate. A new name is added every ten minutes. The horrible truth is 18 men, women and children die each day while waiting for a life saving transplant that does not come. This is all due to the shortage of available organs. Your decision to become a donor could save someone’s life. Register now to be an organ and tissue donor by logging onto www.lifelineofohio.org. Barnesville Hospital will have a tent for the Barnesville Pumpkin Festival along North Chestnut Street behind the Ohio Hills Health Services offices. There will be local volunteers who have been touched by organ and tissue donation and/or hospital staff to greet festival visitors and provide information about donation and register donors onsite.

Barnesville Hospital Celebrates Success of Exercise Class for Cancer Survivors

Fri, 24 Aug 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Barnesville Hospital received funding through the American Cancer Society Virginia Gasaway Community Investment Grant to provide “Bridging the Gap” a free, six week exercise class designed specifically for cancer survivors. The class has been extremely well received with participants enjoying the camaraderie of exercising with other cancer survivors and also experiencing an improvement in their overall health and fitness. “We are extremely grateful to the American Cancer Society for the funding to make this exercise class for cancer survivors possible,” said David Phillips, Chief Executive Officer. “This class provides a great opportunity for participants to participate in a basic exercise class designed specifically for them.” The instructors for the classes are Vicki Burghy, Physical Therapist, Barnesville Hospital, and Raquel McGee, Exercise Physiologist, Barnesville Hospital. Both instructors are certified Cancer Exercise Specialists, a certification they achieved this year through coursework and testing. Research has demonstrated that exercise can reduce fatigue, improve self esteem, strength, and flexibility. Participants will be allowed to progress at their own pace. The next six week class began on August 23rd from 8-9 am and will meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Enrollment is limited and pre-registration is required. To register for a class or for information regarding upcoming classes, please call 740-425-5176.

Barnesville High School and Barnesville Hospital Partner to Prevent Post Concussion Syndrome

Tue, 14 Aug 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Barnesville High School in coordination with Barnesville Hospital is offering a program to Prevent Post Concussion Syndrome in High School Athletes. In July, the Barnesville High School football team began the process by participating in a free baseline concussion assessment. This program was made possible by a grant through Multiplan, Inc. This grant will allow for optimal injury recovery and help to prevent unnecessary traumatic brain injury for area athletes. "Each year more than 60,000 high school athletes sustain a concussion," said Dr. Shaun Roe, Morristown Family Practice Center. "It is important for area athletes to receive an evaluation which will assist to determine if a concussion has occurred and when it is safe to return to play their sport. We are grateful to MultiPlan for providing funding to assist us to evaluate and monitor concussions for area high school athletes." Mark Cook, Barnesville High School Athletic Director, worked with Dr. Roe to implement the concussion management testing. Dr. Roe will provide consultation to the Athletic Directors and coaches at area schools regarding the implementation of the Concussion Management System. "The proper evaluation of concussions in high school athletes are an increasing concern," said Cook. "This program will provide high school athletes access to what is rapidly becoming the standard of care to evaluate and monitor concussions. We are grateful to offer this comprehensive program at no charge to our athletes." School districts participating in the MultiPlan concussion management grant though Barnesville Hospital include Barnesville Village Exempted School District, Union Local School District, and Switzerland of Ohio School District.

Barnesville Hospital Partners with Thomas Chrysler Dodge for Wellness

Wed, 08 Aug 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Through a partnership with Barnesville Hospital, Thomas Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of St. Clairsville is working to build a healthier workforce. According to Raquel McGee, Chairperson of the Barnesville Hospital Employee Wellness Committee, "Employee Wellness Programs are becoming more and more popular in today’s society. Many local businesses are becoming more interested in ways to provide their employees opportunities to become educated on the benefits of living a healthier lifestyle." Barnesville Hospital's successful Employee Wellness Program serves as a model for the partnership. Raquel McGee, Exercise Physiologist at Barnesville Hospital, recently performed flexibility testing on 24 employees at Thomas Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in St. Clairsville, followed by education on the techniques and benefits of stretching. A summary of the statistical results was provided to the company to be able to see how to improve in this aspect of fitness for their employees. Barnesville Hospital continues to partner with local businesses to promote wellness and healthy living. Serving as an advocate in improving the wellness of people in our community is part of the quality services provided by Barnesville Hospital. For more information about Barnesville Hospital and its services, visit the website at Barnesville Hospital, find us on Facebook at Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc., or call (740) 425-5158.

Belmont County Native David Phillips Announced as Barnesville Hospital’s Next CEO

Thu, 02 Aug 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Mel Milburn, President of the Board of Trustees, has announced David Phillips will be the next Chief Executive Officer and Administrator of Barnesville Hospital. Phillips will also serve in the role of President of the Hospital’s subsidiaries, Belmont County Health Services and Belmont Professional Associates. Phillips assumes the role after the retirement of long time CEO, Richard Doan. Throughout the history of Barnesville Hospital, the hospital has evolved into one of the region’s most stable and consistent organizations. Over the last 25 years the leadership of CEO Richard Doan contributed to that success. Doan recently announced his retirement. However, a plan has been in place for the last few years for succession. “When you have a successful organization you want to maintain that culture. One way to ensure stability is to promote from within. David’s aptitudes and abilities make him an ideal person to take over the leadership of the organization,” stated Doan. The succession plan was put in place in 2010 when Phillips assumed the role of Chief Operating Officer and the oversight of daily operations. Phillips has also been actively involved with medical staff affairs, finance and clinical operations. Prior to his role as COO, Phillips served as Senior Director of Materials and Facilities Management. He began his employment with Barnesville Hospital in 2000. During the last decade, he has led many areas and initiatives including materials management, information systems, maintenance, environmental services, dietary, laboratory, safety, security, biomedical engineering, pharmacy, quality improvement, risk management, education, outreach, human resources, rehab services, volunteer services and emergency management. He also served as Safety Officer, Security Officer, co-founder of the Auxiliary Golf Scramble and Project Sponsor of the hospital’s electronic health record implementation. Outside of the hospital, Phillips has worked with the Belmont County EMA Threat and Risk Assessment Team, Ohio Hospital Association Southeast Region Emergency Management Committee, and Ohio State Health Network materials roundtable chairperson. He was also honored as a C.A.R.E.Giver of the Month. Prior to joining Barnesville Hospital, Phillips worked with the American Red Cross Blood Services and with Medical Services of America gaining valuable marketing, public relations and provider contracting experience. Phillips holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Health Administration from Waynesburg University. He obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Health Services Administration from Ohio University, Athens, Ohio. During his undergraduate work, Phillips completed his internship at Barnesville Hospital. Phillips is a Belmont County native and grew up in Flushing. He is an alumnus of Union Local High School. He married his high school sweetheart, Crystal. They have two children, Carson, age 6 and Gage, age 3. Phillips is active in the community. He serves on the Board for the Eastern Ohio Diabetes Association. He has also volunteered for Union Local Diamond Sports, Belmont County Agricultural Society, Union Local Touchdown Club, Boatsie’s Boxes and the Jesse Ault Memorial Golf Scramble. He is a member of the Barnesville Rotary Club. Phillips and his family are members of the Belmont United Methodist Church. Phillips will assume his duties on August 6, 2012.

Richard Doan, CEO of Barnesville Hospital, Retires after 25 Years of Service

Thu, 26 Jul 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Twenty-five year Barnesville Hospital Administrator and Chief Executive Officer Richard Doan is announcing his retirement as one Ohio’s longest serving hospital CEOs. After earning his Bachelor’s Degree from Miami University, Doan began his venture into the world of healthcare at Grant Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio. He served as Laboratory Materials Coordinator before he pursued his Master’s degree of Hospital and Health Administration at Xavier University. Upon receiving his Master’s Degree, Doan returned to Grant Medical Center, serving as Administrative Resident, Administrative Fellow, Assistant to the President, and Assistant Vice President. In July of 1987, the former Barnesville resident returned to his hometown to assume duties as the Administrator and Chief Executive of Barnesville Hospital. During this time, Doan also assumed the duties as President of Belmont County Health Services, a duty which he still fulfills today. During Doan’s time at Barnesville Hospital, he served for many years on the Ohio State Health Network Board of Directors, serving as its Chairman of the Board in 2001 and 2002. He was a recipient of the American College of Healthcare Executives Senior Level Executives Regents Award, and also received the Administrator of the Year Award, presented by the Ohio State Office of Rural Health in 2009. Under Doan’s leadership Barnesville Hospital strived to meet the health needs of the community by developing a new ICU/CCU unit and initiating over 25 new patient services and technologies including Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT), Echocardiography, Digital Mammography, Laparoscopic Surgery, and Neurology Services including EEG and EMG. In 2004 Barnesville Hospital achieved federal designation as a Critical Access Hospital. In 2010, Doan became a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, FACHE, the highest standard of professional development, which illustrated his commitment to providing high-quality service to Barnesville Hospital’s patients and community. While under the direction of Doan, Barnesville Hospital joined the elite group of the nation’s most improved hospitals, as well as being named one of the top 100 Critical Access Hospitals in the country. In addition to his hospital duties, Doan is a dedicated member of the community, having spent time as a member of the Ohio University Eastern-Regional Coordinating Council, also serving as adjunct faculty for Ohio University Eastern’s Health Services Administration program, as a member of the Financial Planning and Supervision Commission of the Barnesville Exempted School District, as the past president of the Barnesville Rotary Club, as a member and past Administrative Chair of the First Methodist Church, voting member and past trustee of the Barnesville Area Education Foundation, a past member of the Village Review Board, representing the village of Barnesville, in addition to many years coaching youth soccer, baseball, and basketball. Upon Doan's retirement he will join the hospital’s Board of Trustees. Doan is the father of four children, T.J., Kelsey, Andrew, and Allison. He has 3 grandchildren, Thomas Jackson "Jack" Doan, age 3, Sydney Guy, age 2, and William Lucas "Liam" Doan, age 1. Belmont County native and Barnesville Hospital COO, David Phillips, will assume the position of the hospital's new CEO. The succession process began two years ago with Doan and Phillips working closely with one another to make the change-over a smooth one. "Having worked closely with David for the past twelve years, I am very pleased to see him take on this new role. He is a dedicated member of the community, a consumate professional and a true family man. I am very confident leaving the leadership of our outstanding hospital in his hands," says Doan. Phillips assumes his new role in August.

Doan Ford Sponsor Again for Barnesville Hospital Scramble

Fri, 13 Jul 2012 00:00:00 EDT

For the tenth year in a row, Doan Ford will be sponsoring the “hole in one” prize for the Barnesville Hospital Auxiliary Golf Scramble. Golfers will drive away in a 2013 Ford if they ace the Par 3 hole # 2 at Belmont Hills Country Club at this year’s event. The 10th Annual Barnesville Hospital Auxiliary Golf Scramble will be held Monday, August 13th, 2012 at Belmont Hills Country Club. Lunch will begin at 11:00am with a shotgun start at 12:30pm. The entry fee for the event is $120, which includes lunch, golf, refreshments on the course, and dinner afterwards. Also included in the entry fee will be mulligans, putting contest and skins game. This golf scramble is held each year to serve as a community outreach event for the hospital and also serve as a fundraiser for the Auxiliary organization. The Barnesville Hospital Auxiliary is instrumental in the purchase of medical equipment used in direct patient care at the hospital. For more information or to be part of this event, contact Jeff Britton at 425-5144, Joe Jeffries at 425-5108, Michael Carpenter at 425-3941, ext. 3019, or Dave Phillips at 425-5109. Additional information can also be obtained by visiting the hospital website at www.barnesvillehospital.com.

Donate Life Ohio's Green Chair Campaign

Thu, 05 Jul 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Barnesville Hospital has partnered with the Ohio Hospital Association along with the Donate Life Ohio's Green Chair campaign to increase awareness of the benefits of organ and tissue donation. With the campaign's implementation, Barnesville Hospital hopes to not only boost local awareness of organ donation but also to increase organ donor registration. According to Lifeline of Ohio, more than 95% of adult Americans approve of organ donation but only 54% of Ohioans are registered donors. Just one person making the decision to become a registered organ donor can potentially save the lives of 50 others. The slogan of the Green Chair campaign is "Don't let another chair go empty". This chair serves as an open invitation for anyone whose life has been affected by organ donation to share their story. For Rose Rosepapa of Bellaire, Ohio, the untimely loss of her daughter, Amanda Rosepapa, provided the gift of life to five others. Amanda was already a registered organ donor when she was involved in the tragic accident that resulted in her death in August 2010. Since Amanda's death, Rose has become an advocate for organ donation, even meeting several of the recipients of Amanda's organs. Please join Barnesville Hospital on July 11th at 12:30pm in the classroom as they welcome Rose Rosepapa to tell the story of her experience with organ donation and the positive impact it has made on the lives of not only Amanda's family and friends but that of the recipient's of her organs as well. Donate Life Ohio's Green Chair will be on site in the hospital's front lobby on both July 11th and 12th. The hospital wishes to invite anyone whose life has been impacted by organ donation to sit in the chair and tell their story throughout these two days. In addition, registration forms will be available to those who wish to register, along with more information regarding organ donation. If you are unable to attend this event but would like to become a registered organ donor, you may visit www.donatelifeohio.org or your local BMV to register. For more information regarding this event contact Amie Booth by phone (740) 238-0378 or email abooth@barnesvillehospital.com.

Barnesville Hospital Receives OSU Wexner Medical Center Community Education Award for Stroke Care

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 00:00:00 EDT

In May 2011, Barnesville Hospital began a collaborative with Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, extending the expert care of the university’s Neurovascular Stroke Center to patients in Barnesville and surrounding communities through a stroke telemedicine network. When a patient presents to the Emergency Department with stroke-like symptoms, Barnesville Hospital staff initiates a “stroke alert” and immediately connects with OSU Wexner Medical Center vascular neurologists through a telemedicine link. The Telestroke and “stroke alert” program expedites care in a situation where every minute lost can negatively impact the patient’s outcome. “It is very important that patients and their families become familiar with the potential signs and symptoms of stroke,” according to Nancy Heaton, R.N., C.E.N., Clinical Nurse Coordinator. As part of its community education program to increase awareness of these signs and symptoms, Barnesville Hospital sponsored a coloring book contest for fourth grade students from Barnesville, Union Local, Skyvue, and Woodsfield school districts. The coloring page highlighted the signs of stroke and the importance of calling “911” for timely intervention. Winners from each school were recognized with a ceremony at the school and received a gift bag with items bearing the Ohio State logo. On May 18th, Ohio State University’s Neurovascular Stroke Center hosted a celebration, recognizing the efforts of all spoke hospitals, including Barnesville Hospital, in successful implementation of the telestroke network. Overall statistics and quality improvements activities were shared with attendees. As a result of the coloring book community education contest, Barnesville Hospital received the “Community Education Award.” According to Karen Wiles, BSN, RN, CCM, Telestroke Project Manager, “Barnesville Hospital was chosen for this award due to the commitment and creativity used to improve stroke awareness in the community. A sample of the coloring page was shared with all spoke hospitals with a goal to replicate the project.” The mission of Barnesville Hospital continues to be personalized, quality care, utilizing the latest in technology and the expertise of vascular neurologists at OSU Wexner Medical Center. Having these resources close to home can save valuable time in receiving necessary treatment. Time lost is brain lost. If you are interested in more information about the telestroke program or other services at Barnesville Hospital, contact Peggy Douglass, Director of Education & Outreach at (740) 425-5158, or visit the hospital’s website at Barnesville Hospital, or find us on Facebook.

Barnesville Hospital Names New Laboratory Manager

Thu, 21 Jun 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Shawn Meier, a medical technologist at Barnesville Hospital since 1993, entered a new phase of her career when she came to work on June 4th. That was when she assumed Laboratory Management responsibilities from her predecessor, Lori Leary, who relocated to West Virginia with her family. Prior to this time, Mrs. Meier had been the hematology/coagulation supervisor in the Barnesville Hospital Laboratory. She received a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology from Ohio University and did a one year medical technology internship in Akron. During that time, she worked in the hematology lab at Akron City Hospital. When asked to describe the biggest challenge facing healthcare, Mrs. Meier states, “One of the biggest challenges is rapidly changing technology. Through strategic planning, Barnesville Hospital’s laboratory has been able to keep pace with the latest technology, thus improving the speed and accuracy with which physicians can diagnosis and treat patients.” Shawn is very excited about the future, “I enjoy working with people and it is gratifying to know that I am making an important difference in a person’s life. The staff at Barnesville Hospital work so well together as a team. I love being part of that team!” Born in Jacobsburg, Shawn currently resides in St. Clairsville with her husband of 18 years, Bill, and their son, Brandon. She enjoys cooking, baking, gardening, quilting, reading, and spending time with family.

Barnesville Hospital Honors Employee as Dyckes Healthcare Worker of Year Nominee

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Bridget DeLaney, Social Worker at Barnesville Hospital, was recently nominated for the Ohio Hospital Association's (OHA) 2012 Albert E. Dyckes Healthcare Worker of the Year Award. Sixty-two nominees, including DeLaney, from hospitals across the state were recognized at the 2012 OHA recognition banquet June 12. Created in 1996, the Albert E. Dyckes Healthcare Worker of the Year Award is given each year to one Ohio caregiver who demonstrates leadership, reflects the values and ideals of Ohio’s health care facilities, goes above and beyond the call of duty, and gives back to the community. According to Cynthia Touvelle, R.N., B.S.N,, Chief Nursing Officer, “Bridget is an inspiration to all with her dedication to patients, her tenacity to getting a job done, and her compassion. She always finds time to encourage and motivate others.” For Bridget, she was raised in an environment of helping others. Her mother, Ruth Anderson, has served as the Director of Volunteers at Barnesville Hospital for 35 years. “As I was growing up, Mom was always helping people and I wanted to be like her,” says Mrs. DeLaney. “I personally believe God has a plan for all of us and he brings certain people/circumstances into our lives for a reason. I honestly feel blessed to have figured out what my purpose is. Being a Social Worker isn’t just a job, it is who I am.” DeLaney received a Bachelor’s in Social Work from Ohio University and became a licensed social worker in 1990. She spent one year working with Children’s Services and 14 years in the Ohio Youth Advocacy program, while working part-time at a nursing home. Employed at Barnesville Hospital since 2003, Bridget was voted 2005 Employee of the Year by her peers. When asked about her most gratifying healthcare experience, Mrs. DeLaney, without hesitation says, “Being able to sit with a dying patient, while her elderly sisters went home to rest, and honestly being able to reassure them that she would be taken care of.” Bridget and her husband, John, have been married 22 years. They have two children, Brennan who is attending Kent State University and Jenny who will be in the sixth grade at Barnesville Middle School. Mrs. DeLaney volunteers for various school and sports functions as well as the East Richland Friends Church in St. Clairsville where she is a member.

Barnesville Hospital Awarded Accreditation By Joint Commission

Wed, 06 Jun 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Barnesville Hospital has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval™ for accreditation by demonstrating compliance with The Joint Commission’s national standards for health care quality and safety in critical access hospitals. The accreditation award recognizes Barnesville Hospital’s dedication to continuous compliance with The Joint Commission’s state-of-the-art standards. Barnesville Hospital underwent a rigorous unannounced on-site survey in November 2011. A team of Joint Commission expert surveyors evaluated Barnesville Hospital for compliance with standards of care specific to the needs of patients, including infection prevention and control, leadership and medication management. “The entire Barnesville Hospital team’s involvement in the accreditation process was vital to the success of the on-site survey because the tracer methodology used focuses on the direct care of the patient,” stated Jane Hall, R.N., B.S.N., Sr. Director of Quality. According to David Phillips, MBA, Chief Operating Officer, “Barnesville Hospital’s 100% compliance with the National Patient Safety Goals was validated by the Joint Commission team during the survey.” "In achieving Joint Commission accreditation, Barnesville Hospital has demonstrated its commitment to the highest level of care for its patients," says Mark Pelletier, R.N., M.S., executive director, Hospital Programs, Accreditation and Certification Services, The Joint Commission. “Accreditation is a voluntary process and I commend Barnesville Hospital for successfully undertaking this challenge to elevate its standard of care and instill confidence in the community it serves.” "With Joint Commission accreditation, we are making a significant investment in quality on a day-to-day basis from the top down. Joint Commission accreditation provides us a framework to take our organization to the next level and helps create a culture of excellence,” says Richard Doan, FACHE, Chief Executive Officer. “Achieving Joint Commission accreditation, for our organization, is a major step toward maintaining excellence and continually improving the care we provide.” The Joint Commission’s critical access hospital standards address important functions relating to the care of patients and the management of hospitals. The standards are developed in consultation with health care experts, providers, measurement experts and patients. Founded in 1951, The Joint Commission seeks to continuously improve health care for the public, in collaboration with other stakeholders, by evaluating health care organizations and inspiring them to excel in providing safe and effective care of the highest quality and value. The Joint Commission evaluates and accredits more than 18,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States. An independent, not-for-profit organization, The Joint Commission is the nation's oldest and largest standards-setting and accrediting body in health care.

Barnesville Hospital "You Deserve It" Weight Loss Challenge!

Wed, 30 May 2012 00:00:00 EDT

The Barnesville Hospital Employee Wellness Program recently conducted an eight-week weight loss challenge entitled "You Deserve It." A total of 78 employees, friends, and family members participated in the challenge. A total of 26 three-person teams participated. Raquel McGee, Barnesville Hospital Exercise Physiologist, reports the participants lost a total of 652.8 pounds with an average weight loss per person of 8.4 pounds. The overall winning team was "Good Morning" who lost a total of 70.8 pounds and 9.97% of their weight. The members of this team were Joe Jeffries, Linda Lang and Doug Hocking. The top loser in weight and percentage for the competition was Doug Hocking losing 41.6 pounds. A total of $780.00 in prize money was distributed between the top teams and to the individuals they sponsored in the challenge. The theme of the Challenge was "You Deserve It" and the idea was for each team to nominate a person they felt was in need or "deserving" of some help with medical bills, transportation, or other basic needs. Each team picked a person and lost weight in their "honor." It was everyone's pleasure to be able to help raise money for these individuals. The top five winning teams were able to win prizes for their nominees. Thank you to our local sponsors for their donations to this challenge: Curves, Corner Fitness, and Kari McGee, LMT. Congratulations to all the participants on a job well done! As a follow up to the "You Deserve It" Weight Loss Challenge 2012, each participant is invited to participate in a maintenance program and to return to weigh in monthly. If at that time they have maintained their post challenge weight or have continued to lose more weight since the challenge ended, they will receive chances to win more rewards from the Barnesville Hospital Employee Wellness Program. This maintenance program is designed to encourage all participants to keep off the weight lost during the last challenge and to maintain their healthy living lifestyle. As always, the goal of the Employee Wellness Program is to improve the health and fitness levels of our employees and our community.

Barnesville Hospital Melvin Creeley Environmental Award Winner

Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 EDT

The Ohio Hospital Association (OHA) has named Barnesville Hospital as a recipient of the Melvin Creeley Environmental Leadership Award for its efforts to reduce waste, prevent pollution, and comply with environmental regulations. The award recognizes health systems that promote sound environmental practices through environmental stewardship and exemplifying the best practices for other hospitals to follow. The award is named after the retired president and CEO of East Liverpool City Hospital, Melvin Creeley, who chaired OHA’s Environmental Leadership Council from its inception in 2001 to 2010. Specifically, Barnesville Hospital has implemented waste reduction programs, recycling initiatives and other activities to preserve the health of the planet for future generations. Among its many environmental accomplishments, Barnesville continues recycling programs for cardboard, shredded confidential documents, mixed plastics, mixed glass, steel & aluminum cans, motor oil, computers, mixed paper, batteries, mixed scrap metals, & used linens. Additionally, outdated medical & surgical supplies are donated to support care missions in third-world countries. In 2011, Barnesville Hospital recycled 26.52 tons of recyclable solids and 2.68 tons of recycled hazardous wastes. The recycling campaign continues to grow. With the support of the Green Team Committee, we are working to expand recycling efforts for Morristown Clinic, Morristown Pharmacy and Homecare, and Barnesville Medical Center. Barnesville Hospital has previously been recognized on a national level as a leader in reducing mercury in healthcare and as a recipient of the Partner for Change Award for environmental stewardship.

Barnesville Hospital Honors Employees & Announces C.A.R.E. Giver of the Year

Tue, 22 May 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Excellent health care starts with excellent people. Staff at Barnesville Hospital continuously display the attributes of CARE - Courtesy, Attitude, Respect, and Enthusiasm. The 29th Annual Employee Service Awards Banquet was held on May 9th to honor the men and women who demonstrate these human qualities which keep Barnesville Hospital at the forefront of healthcare in the Ohio Valley. Staff were recognized for 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40 and 50 years of service. Honoree with 40 years of service was Barb McMahon, while Frances Lucas and John Sawvel were recognized for 50 years of service. Throughout the year, staff select the twelve individuals who consistently demonstrate the C.A.R.E. attributes. These C.A.R.E.Givers, announced at a ceremony in March, were again recognized at the Banquet. The honorees were Michael Carpenter (Leadership), Ryan Gallagher (Nursing), Kevin Hannahs (Environmental Services), Misty Johnson (Nursing), Mickey Lewis (Registration), Jackie Lucas (Dietary), Jan Lucki (Laboratory), Brandon Mullenix (Laboratory), Amy St. Clair (Nursing), Rosalee Swallow (Cardiopulmonary), Pam Tucker (Morristown Clinic), and Wendy Willison (Medical Records). The evening culminated with the announcement of Michael Carpenter as the 2011 C.A.R.E. Giver of the Year. “This is a very special award because it is bestowed upon Michael by his co-workers,” said David Phillips, C.O.O. “It clearly recognizes one outstanding individual who represents co-workers’ ideals of dedication, professionalism, and humanity.” Michael began his employment as Environmental Services Supervisor in December 2010. Prior to that, he had been employed by the Ohio Hospital Association as an independent contractor, serving as Community Outreach Coordinator in Southeastern Ohio. Michael, a graduate of the Ohio University Health Services Administration program, says, “I decided to get into healthcare after taking an introductory course and realizing the large opportunities in the field.” Growing up on the family farm in Centerville with two older sisters, Michael enjoyed playing softball, hunting, and still helps his father on the farm. He loves the Pittsburgh Pirates, traveling, beach vacations, and watching the Ohio State Buckeyes play college football on Saturdays. Michael’s wife, Nichole, is also part of Barnesville Hospital’s “Quality Caring Team.” They reside in Barnesville and are expecting their first child the end of May.

Barnesville Hospital Mammography Services Receive MQSA Accreditation

Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 EDT

As important as mammograms are, they are only worthwhile if the equipment is properly maintained and the personnel properly trained. The mammography department of Barnesville Hospital received complete compliance status and renewal of certification by the FDA through its MQSA (Mammography Quality Standards Act) inspection. The primary objective of the MQSA is to ensure that mammography is safe and reliable and that breast cancer is detected in its most treatable stages. In 2011, Barnesville Hospital began offering digital mammography services. Digital mammography is shown to be more sensitive in the detection of breast cancer and exposes women to less radiation. Digital mammography also provides improvements in image storage and transmission allowing off site radiologists to read and assess the images in real time. It also increases the number of women who can be screened each day as the actual exam takes less time. The American Cancer Society recommends yearly mammograms starting at age 40. The accreditation sets high practice standards for qualifications of personnel, adequacy of technology & equipment, and the technical quality of the actual mammography images produced. For example, physicians who interpret mammograms must be board certified or have three months training in mammography, technologists must keep their skills current by doing an average of 200 mammograms every two years, and medical physicists must ensure quality of mammography equipment and facilities. Under the guidance of Director of Diagnostic Imaging, Dr. Carter Kenamond, Imaging Operations Manager, Karen Mihalic, RT R.M., and Tiffany Hart-Gatten, Mammography Quality Coordinator, a team of six registered mammography technologists perform over 1,000 mammograms annually at Barnesville Hospital. In addition to setting standards for personnel and equipment, the MQSA requires the facility to retain and transfer mammograms to a patient's physician. This is important because it aids diagnosis by allowing doctors to compare old mammograms with new ones. The Diagnostic Imaging Department at Barnesville Hospital has been providing mammography services to the community for over 18 years, while following standards of both the American College of Radiology and the federal regulations of the Mammography Quality Standards Act which are surveyed by the Ohio Department of Health. Mammography is only one of the quality services which earned Barnesville Hospital recognition as a HealthStrong Award Winner. In the first comprehensive rating of Critical Access Hospitals, Barnesville Hospital was recognized by iVantage Health Analytics as one of the top one hundred Critical Access Hospitals in the nation. This tremendous honor is based on 56 performance indicators including quality, outcomes, patient perspective, affordability, and efficiency. For more information about Barnesville Hospital and its services, visit the website at Barnesville Hospital, find us on Facebook at Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc., or call (740) 425-5158.

Barnesville Hospital Honors Volunteers

Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Barnesville Hospital showed its appreciation to the dedicated people who give of their time and energy to provide volunteer services throughout the year at the annual Volunteer Recognition Banquet on April 17, 2012 at Annie K's Restaurant, Barnesville. The invocation and benediction for the evening were provided by Jean Cooper, pastor of Somerton/Jerusalem Methodist Churches. Entertainment was provided by Jim & Ruth Mayhugh and Bob Flanagan. Definition of a volunteer is "someone who serves in a community, primarily because they choose to do so without promise, expectation, or receipt of compensation for services rendered." In 2011, a total of 155 volunteers gave over 8,700 hours and more than 7,000 meals were delivered by volunteer drivers. These dedicated volunteers go the extra mile to help patients and assist staff. They provide assistance in various areas within the hospital, including solarium, diagnostic imaging, information desk, gift shop, rehabilitation, meal delivery, candy stripers, and Red Cross volunteers. Teens receiving an award for 100 hours of candy striper service were Jessica Swaboda, Becky Huntsman, Kaylee Callihan, Taylor McCort, Shelly Tolewitz, and Alexis Vogler. Receiving candy striper patches were Casey Glenn, Ashley Ivey, Mariah Leach, Danica Wharton, and Leah Wharton. Adult volunteers receiving 500 hour awards were Betty Hanes, Cindy Lallathin, and Bonnie Lewis. Wilma Truax received a 1,000 hour pin. Giving 2,000 hours were Helen Detling and Marjorie Hunter, while Freda Powell provided 6,000 hours. Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer or helping deliver meals, contact Ruth Anderson at (740) 425-5113, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Barnesville Hospital Appoints New Emergency Department Medical Director

Fri, 11 May 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Rick Doan, FACHE, CEO has announced the appointment of Patrick Dunster, M.D., M.M.M. as new Medical Director of the Barnesville Hospital Emergency Department. Providing emergency services in the department since March 2004, Dr. Dunster comes with a broad background of practice. Having ten years' experience as either Director or Assistant Medical Director, Dunster is Board Certified in Emergency Medicine. Additionally, Dr. Dunster has over 15 years' experience serving as an EMS Medical Director and will be serving in that capacity for several local EMS squads. With an undergraduate degree from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA, Dr. Dunster is a graduate of the Ohio State University College of Medicine. He did residency training at both Ohio State University and West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA. In addition, he holds a Masters in Medical Management from Carnegie Mellon University. Appointed by the Lieutenant Governor, Dr. Dunster served as an inaugural member of the State of Ohio Trauma Committee. He is Board Certified in Emergency Medicine (BCEM) through the American Association of Physician Specialists (AAPS). Accredited by the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBEM), Dunster has served as an oral board examiner for the Emergency Medical Board, AAPS/BCEM. He is a charter member of the Association of Emergency Physicians (AEP) and a member of the American College of Physician Executives (ACPE) and the American Association of Physician Specialists (AAPS). He credits "a desire to help others" as the major factor influencing his decision to enter healthcare. This desire, in turn, lead to his most gratifying healthcare experience, providing medical care in Port-au-Prince, Haiti following the earthquakes. One of six children, Dunster was born in Bowling Green and grew up in Lima, Ohio where he attended the high school which serves as the basis for the television show, "Glee." Married with four children and 1 grandchild, Dr. Dunster makes his home in Kidron, Ohio.

BARNESVILLE HOSPITAL RECOGNIZES IMPORTANCE OF EMS

Wed, 09 May 2012 00:00:00 EDT

May 20-26, 2012 has been nationally designated as EMS Week. Barnesville Hospital recognizes the importance of EMS by honoring those community members dedicated to providing day-to-day, “front-line” lifesaving services. According to Patrick Dunster, M.D., Barnesville Hospital ER Director, “The demand for EMS and the demands on EMS provider services has never been greater. These are our quiet heroes.” This year’s theme, “EMS: More Than A Job. A Calling,” demonstrates the philosophy that EMS Providers don’t choose this field for big salaries, comfortable working conditions, or 9-to-5 hours. They have a true calling to help their neighbors and friends in their time of need. In cases of local emergencies, such as flooding or tornados, this often means leaving their loved ones to go to the aid of others. According to Nancy Heaton, Clinical Nurse Coordinator, "Our EMS members depict this year’s theme. They demonstrate their compassion and dedication to those they serve through their willingness to respond to those in need.” Barnesville Hospital staff will be expressing their gratitude to local EMS squads, May 21-25, by providing daily “treats” and door prize drawings. Squad members are encouraged to stop by the Emergency Department if they are in the area. The hospital, in conjunction with MedFlight, will be hosting a picnic for EMS Providers on Tuesday, May 22nd, beginning at 1630 outside the Emergency Department. Immediately following, at 1800, there will be a 1-hour continuing education presentation entitled “Pediatric Trauma” in the Barnesville Hospital Classroom.

Background of New Office Manager Benefits Local Community

Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Recently, Lana Melanko, R.N., B.O.L.D., joined the staff of Belmont Professional Associates, a subsidiary of Barnesville Hospital, as Practice Manager. Lana brings a broad range of experience to her new position, both from a management perspective as well as prior clinical involvement. In addition to her experience, she holds a certificate in Insurance and Medical Coding from Belmont College. According to David Phillips, Barnesville Hospital COO, “We are excited to have someone of Lana’s caliber join our team. She will be a tremendous asset to the organization in the physician practice management area.” Belmont Professional Associates is a non-profit, multi-specialty physician practice with locations in Morristown and Barnesville, Ohio. BPA provides primary and surgical care to residents of Belmont, Monroe, Guernsey, Noble, and Harrison Counties and is dedicated to providing the highest quality healthcare possible to the patients they serve. Mrs. Melanko attended West Liberty State College where she received an Associate Degree in Nursing. Her first job was in the Coronary/Intensive Care Unit at the Bellaire City Hospital. After four years, she accepted a position at the Bellaire Clinic, which later became owned and operated by the St. Francis Health System in Pittsburgh. By the end of her 25-year tenure, she held the position of Director of Clinical Operations, managing three clinical sites, 16 physicians, two pharmacies, a laboratory, a radiology department, and a home health agency. During her tenure there, she received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Organizational Leadership and Development from Wheeling Jesuit University. Mrs. Melanko has also worked for Wheeling Hospital as a Compliance auditor and, most recently, as the Manager of the Schiffler Cancer Center Medical Oncology Division. She was responsible for the management of operations of the Cancer Center’s Clinical and Medical staff and infusion center. According to Lana, working with cancer patients and their families has been her most gratifying health care experience because they are so appreciative of everything. When asked what made her decide to go into healthcare, “My youngest brother got hit by a car when he was 11 years old and nearly lost his life. He was in a body cast and had a severe head injury,” responded Lana. “I was so impressed and appreciative of the nurses that cared for him that I decided I wanted to help others as they had helped us.” Lana, a lifelong resident of Shadyside, married her high school sweetheart, Paul “Bud” Melanko. They are parents of three children: Paul III “Dusty”, Director of Marketing for the Wheeling Nailers; Jared who is learning the family business, Melanko Construction; and Marissa, a Registered Nurse in a Surgical Cardiothoracic ICU at Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh, She and Bud enjoy sports. They are season ticket holders for the Wheeling Nailers. Mrs. Melanko attends the Methodist Church in Shadyside and credits her relationship with Jesus as keeping her anchored. When asked about her new position, Lana states, “I am very excited about my new venture. The physicians and staff are caring and friendly with their patients and with one another. They are a joy to work with!” Melanko’s role as Practice Manager will involve overseeing the family medicine practices of Joseph Durkalski, D.O. and Shaun Roe, D.O. at Morristown Family Medicine. In addition, she will oversee the family medicine practice of Carol Narkevic, M.D. at Barnesville Medical Center. Also at Barnesville Medical Center, Mrs. Melanko will work with the surgical practices of Keith Knupp, M.D., general surgery, and Joel Link, M.D., ENT surgery.

Barnesville Hospital and the Village of Barnesville Collaborative on Wellness

Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Barnesville Hospital and the Village of Barnesville recently collaborated in an effort to improve the health of the village employees. Raquel McGee, Barnesville Hospital Exercise Physiologist, performed flexibility testing at the Barnesville Senior Citizens’ Center for the employees of the Village of Barnesville. Flexibility, defined as one’s total range of motion of a joint or a group of joints, is one of the major components of physical fitness. Good flexibility will help prevent injuries at home, at the workplace, or during exercise. Stretching daily will improve one’s flexibility and it only takes a few minutes a day to see improvements. The employees of the Village of Barnesville were instructed in proper stretching techniques. They were given safety tips on how to lift properly, as well as the benefits of good posture. Barnesville Hospital's successful Employee Wellness Program continues to serve the community by providing information and collaboration on healthy living. The Barnesville Hospital employee wellness program recently concluded a nine week basketball league for employees, families, and friends. Currently a hiking club is being organized to meet at the Barnesville Memorial Park and hike the trails and roads in the Barnesville area. If interested in participating, contact (740) 425-5158. Barnesville Hospital serves as an advocate in improving the wellness of people in our community and this is a part of the quality services which earned Barnesville Hospital recognition as a HealthStrong Award Winner. In the first comprehensive rating of Critical Access Hospitals, Barnesville Hospital was recognized by iVantage Health Analytics as one of the top one hundred Critical Access Hospitals in the nation. This tremendous honor is based on 56 performance indicators including quality, outcomes, patient perspective, affordability, and efficiency. For more information about Barnesville Hospital and its services, visit the website at Barnesville Hospital, find us on Facebook at Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc., or call (740) 425-5158.

Barnesville 's Cancer Recovery Exercise Class a Success

Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 EDT

"Bridging the Gap" a six week exercise class designed specifically for cancer survivors recently concluded at Barnesville Hospital. This free class was made possible by funding through the American Cancer Society Virginia Gasaway Community Investment Grant. Seven participants became the first official graduates of this program on March 22, 2012. Participants attended the one hour class on Tuesdays and Thursdays for a total of 12 sessions. They were instructed in exercises to strengthen and stretch target areas of their bodies to assist them to recover from the effects of cancer treatments and deconditioning. Participants increased their range of motion, improved their strength, and were educated on lifestyle changes to improve their overall health and fitness. An additional six week class began on Monday, March 26, 2012. The instructors are Vicki Burghy, physical therapist, Barnesville Hospital, and Raquel McGee, exercise physiologist, Barnesville Hospital. Both instructors are certified Cancer Exercise Specialists, a certification they achieved this year through coursework and testing. Classes will be offered throughout the year. Enrollment is limited and pre-registration is required. For information regarding upcoming classes, please call 740-425-5176. Serving as an advocate in improving the wellness of people in our community is part of the quality services which earned Barnesville Hospital recognition as a HealthStrong Award Winner. In the first comprehensive rating of Critical Access Hospitals, Barnesville Hospital was recognized by iVantage Health Analytics as one of the top one hundred Critical Access Hospitals in the nation. This tremendous honor is based on 56 performance indicators including quality, outcomes, patient perspective, affordability and efficiency. For more information about Barnesville Hospital and its services, visit the hospital website at Barnesville Hospital, find us on Facebook at Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc. or call (740) 425-5158.

Dr. Carol Narkevic Returns to Barnesville

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Some of you in the community will recognize the name Dr. Carol Narkevic. Dr. Narkevic served the community in the 1980s here in Barnesville. We are pleased to announce that Dr. Narkevic will be returning to the community. Carol Narkevic, MD attended the Jefferson Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. Her residency was at the Shadyside Hospital in Pittsburgh. Upon entering practice in the field of Family Medicine, Dr. Narkevic joined the Barnesville Medical Center and Medical Staff of Barnesville Hospital. She was a member of the staff during most of the 1980s and also served on the Board of Trustees. In 1989, she left the area to perform medical mission work initially in Kenya, Africa. After her time in Africa, she spent a majority of her mission work in Jamaica. In the latter part of 2011, she returned to the United States. After a brief respite from practice, she began to explore opportunities to return to the practice in the US. Ultimately her calling has led her back to where she began her career in Family Medicine here in Barnesville. Dr. Narkevic will be opening her practice in the late spring of this year. She will be working for both Belmont Professional Associates, a subsidiary of Barnesville Hospital, and Ohio Hills Health Services. Dr. Narkevic will practice in the field of Family Medicine. Dr. Narkevic will be in her Barnesville office on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. To schedule an appointment, please call 740-425-5780. Her office will be located in the lower level of Barnesville Medical Center, 100 Hospital Drive. She will be at the Freeport Family Health Center, an Ohio Hills Health Services facility, on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The Health Center is located at 110 West Main Street, Freeport. To schedule an appointment in Freeport, please call 740-658-3329. Please join us in welcoming back Dr. Carol Narkevic.

Barnesville Hospital Celebrates "National Hospital Week"

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Barnesville Hospital unites with other hospitals across the United States for one week in May to celebrate the efforts of more than 4.5 million healthcare workers who work in America’s hospitals bringing care, compassion, and healing to members of their communities. National Hospital Week, May 6-12, 2012, is acknowledged as the country’s largest healthcare recognition program. According to Peggy Douglass, R.N., Director of Education & Outreach, “Barnesville Hospital will use this year’s hospital week theme, ‘Making Miracles Happen,’ to spotlight its’ more than 300 employees.” “Health care has a personal and very powerful role in the lives of every member of our community,” Richard Doan, CEO of Barnesville Hospital, said. “National Hospital Week gives us an opportunity to connect with people in the community and celebrate health care in the area. Barnesville Hospital takes this opportunity every year during National Hospital Week to honor and recognize the dedicated professional staff who embody quality caring.” A full slate of community activities is planned for 2012, including: “Perry In the Morning” - The WBNV morning show will broadcast live from Barnesville Hospital on Monday, May 7th from 7:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Tune in to 93.5-FM to become better informed about services available at Barnesville Hospital. Ron Bischof, Mayor of Barnesville, will be a guest on the broadcast at 8:00 a.m. Adult CPR - This program will be offered Tuesday, May 8th, beginning at 6:00 p.m. Being prepared and knowing what to do in the event of a cardiac or respiratory arrest could help save the life of someone you love. There will be no charge for the CPR course; however, to provide individualized instruction, class size is limited and pre-registration is required. The course will be held in the Classroom at Barnesville Hospital. For registration or additional information, call 425-5158. Barnesville Chamber of Commerce Meeting - To express gratitude for the support provided to the hospital by local organizations, Barnesville Hospital will host the monthly meeting of the Barnesville Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday, May 9th, beginning at 7:30 a.m. In addition to community education events, hospital employees will be honored at the 29th Annual Employee Service Awards Banquet on Wednesday, May 9th. Beth Brill, Director of Human Resources at Barnesville Hospital states, “all employees demonstrate the attributes of CARE, Courtesy, Attitude, Respect, Enthusiasm.” Throughout the year, staff select a Caregiver of the Month. The highlight of the evening is when one of these selections is named Caregiver of the Year. A variety of other activities, including an employee picnic, are planned during the week as an expression of gratitude to the employees for their service to Barnesville Hospital and the community. According to David Phillips, Chief Operating Officer, “It is our Quality Caring Staff who helped Barnesville Hospital earn recognition as a HealthStrong Award Winner.” In the first comprehensive rating of Critical Access Hospitals, Barnesville Hospital was recognized by iVantage Health Analytics as one of the top one hundred Critical Access Hospitals in the nation. This tremendous honor is based on 56 performance indicators including quality, outcomes, patient perspective, affordability, and efficiency. For more information about Barnesville Hospital and its services, visit the Barnesville Hospital website, find us on Facebook at Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc., or call (740) 425-5158.

Barnesville Hospital & Morristown Pharmacy Hosts Drug Take Back Program

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 00:00:00 EDT

On Saturday April 28th Barnesville Hospital and Morristown Pharmacy will participate in the National Drug Enforcement Administration's Prescription Take Back Day. Barnesville Hospital will accept unwanted medications from 8-10 AM in the hospital lobby and Morristown Pharmacy will accept medications from 10:30 AM - 1:30 PM in the pharmacy parking lot. Funding from the JB Green Team made this event possible. The JB Green Team has set goals for waste reduction, recycling, and reducing reliance on land filling waste generated within Belmont and Jefferson counties. The Prescription Take Back Day assists to keep drugs out of our landfills and out of our water supply. "The JB Green Team's ongoing support contributes directly to the success of our Prescription Take Back Program," said Joe Jeffries, R.Ph., Pharmacy Director, Barnesville Hospital. "Barnesville Hospital and Morristown Pharmacy are committed to keeping our communities safe by helping area residents dispose of medications they no longer need." Area residents are encouraged to bring unwanted and expired medications to this event for safe disposal. To ensure patient confidentiality cross out the patient's name on prescription drug labels, however if possible leave the name of the medication visible. Across the country there are increasing concerns over prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications being found in public water systems. Drugs collected at the event are destroyed by officials in an incinerator. Burning the drugs is better for the environment than flushing drugs down the drain or placing them in our landfills. The event will accept over-the-counter medications as well as prescription drugs and even pet medicines. Because the drugs are incinerated, asthma inhalers or drugs in canisters cannot be accepted. A pharmacist and an officer from the Bethesda Police Department will supervise the collection in order to accept expired controlled substances. The Pharmaceutical Take Back Program is a great opportunity to clean out your medicine cabinets, safeguard you home, and to preserve our environment for future generations. Everyone is welcome regardless of where medications were purchased. However, medications cannot be accepted from businesses such as nursing homes and doctor’s offices and sharps will not be accepted. For information call Barnesville Hospital's pharmacy at 740-425-5108.

Barnesville Hospital Partners With South Central Power to Improve Employee Health

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 00:00:00 EST

Through a partnership with Barnesville Hospital, South Central Power is working to build a healthier workforce. According to Beth Brill, Director of Human Resources at Barnesville Hospital, "Our mission is to be a model of excellence in rural healthcare and a vital center of community health activities. The Wellness Committee of Barnesville Hospital is working to provide resources, expertise, and services intended to improve the health and wellness of South Central Power's employees." Barnesville Hospital's successful Employee Wellness Program, serves as a model for the partnership. Raquel McGee, Exercise Physiologist at Barnesville Hospital, recently performed flexibility testing on 28 employees at South Central Power's Barnesville office, followed by education on the techniques and benefits of stretching. Mrs. McGee will be returning in May to provide nutrition education. Barnesville Hospital continues to partner with local businesses to promote wellness and healthy living. Serving as an advocate in improving the wellness of people in our community is part of the quality services which earned Barnesville Hospital recognition as a HealthStrong Award Winner. In the first comprehensive rating of Critical Access Hospitals, Barnesville Hospital was recognized by iVantage Health Analytics as one of the top one hundred Critical Access Hospitals in the nation. This tremendous honor is based on 56 performance indicators including quality, outcomes, patient perspective, affordability, and efficiency. For more information about Barnesville Hospital and its services, visit the website at Barnesville Hospital, find us on Facebook at Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc., or call (740) 425-5158.

Barnesville Hospital Website Enhancement Benefits Patients

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 EST

Scientific evidence demonstrates that a strong, social support system has a major impact on health outcomes and is essential for adjustment to illness. Barnesville Hospital, recognizing the value of these research findings, uses technology to encourage social interactions with patients. Thanks to modern medicine and outpatient procedures, patients stay in the hospital for shorter periods of time. Often a patient is discharged before a card could reach them through postal mail. With Barnesville Hospital's "Send-A-Smile" program, online greeting cards can be sent to a patient quickly, from anywhere in the world. It's as easy as selecting a picture and either choosing from a pre-written message or personalizing your card. Cards are printed and delivered daily, Monday through Friday. Requests sent late Friday or on weekends/holidays will be delivered the following business day. To take advantage of the "Send-A-Smile" program, visit Barnesville Hospital's website at Barnesville Hospital and click on the "Send-A-Smile" link. Serving as a patient advocate, "Send-A-Smile" is part of the quality services which earned Barnesville Hospital recognition as a HealthStrong Award Winner. In the first comprehensive rating of Critical Access Hospitals, Barnesville Hospital was recognized by iVantage Health Analytics as one of the top one hundred Critical Access Hospitals in the nation. This tremendous honor is based on 56 performance indicators including quality, outcomes, patient perspective, affordability, and efficiency. For more information about Barnesville Hospital and its services, visit the hospital website at Barnesville Hospital, find us on Facebook at Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc. or call (740) 425-5158.

Barnesville Hospital Offers Free Exercise Class for Cancer Survivors

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 EST

A free six week exercise class, “Bridging the Gap”, designed specifically for cancer survivors will begin on February 14th at Barnesville Hospital. This one hour class will meet at 1:30 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the Barnesville Medical Center Lower Level, 100 Hospital Drive, Barnesville, directly behind the hospital. Barnesville Hospital received funding through the American Cancer Society Virginia Gasaway Community Investment Grant to have a hospital physical therapist and an exercise physiologist certified specifically regarding the exercise needs of cancer patients and survivors. Raquel McGee and Vicki Burghy will lead the classes. “I am thrilled we are able to bring this class to Barnesville and grateful to the American Cancer Society for the funding which made it possible,” said Joann Barylak, R.N., Barnesville Hospital and Volunteer, American Cancer Society. “This class will be a wonderful opportunity for cancer survivors to participate in a basic exercise class designed specifically for them.” Research has demonstrated that exercise can reduce fatigue, improve self esteem, strength, and flexibility. Participants will be allowed to progress at their own pace. Enrollment is limited and pre-registration is required. Please call 740-425-5158 to register and for additional information. This class will be offered again so feedback regarding times that best meet the needs of area residents are appreciated.

Barnesville Hospital Takes Wellness Into the Community

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 EST

There is currently a national initiative to improve adolescent health & fitness. Two of the major health concerns among this age group are interrelated, childhood obesity and lack of physical activity. Childhood obesity continues to outrank all other health problems as the number-one concern for children in the U.S. Rates of childhood obesity have tripled in the last 25 years, putting many children at risk for diabetes and heart disease, according to a report in Academic Pediatrics. There are numerous approaches to treating childhood obesity, but all boil down to a change in diet and lifestyle. Sedentary lifestyles have become the norm in the U.S., with children spending more time in front of the TV, computer or video game console than reading books, playing outside or engaging in extracurricular activities. Barnesville Hospital is supporting one local school, Olney Friends School, in raising awareness among their students. On Friday, January 20th, Raquel McGee, Exercise Physiologist, and Vickie Ramsay, Registered Nurse, performed fitness testing and health screen on a total of 51 students. This included blood pressure, grip strength measurement, flexibility testing, and body composition analysis. Results are being shared with the school, along with some recommendations for improvement in results. Serving as an advocate in improving the wellness of people in our community is part of the quality services which earned Barnesville Hospital recognition as a HealthStrong Award Winner. In the first comprehensive rating of Critical Access Hospitals, Barnesville Hospital was recognized by iVantage Health Analytics as one of the top one hundred Critical Access Hospitals in the nation. This tremendous honor is based on 56 performance indicators including quality, outcomes, patient perspective, affordability and efficiency. For more information about Barnesville Hospital and its services, visit the hospital website at Barnesville Hospital, find us on Facebook at Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc. or call (740) 425-5158.

Barnesville Hospital Earns Quality Respiratory Care Recognition in National Program

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

Barnesville Hospital has earned Quality Respiratory Care Recognition (QRCR) under a national program aimed at helping patients and families make informed decisions about the quality of the respiratory care services available in hospitals. About 700 hospitals or approximately 15% of hospitals in the United States have applied for and received this award. The QRCR program was started by the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) in 2003 to help consumers identify those facilities using qualified respiratory therapists to provide respiratory care. The AARC is a membership organization representing more than 50,000 health professionals involved in respiratory care nationwide. Hospitals earning the QRCR designation ensure patient safety by agreeing to adhere to a strict set of criteria governing their respiratory care services. To qualify for the recognition, Barnesville Hospital provided documentation showing it meets the following conditions: All respiratory therapists employed by the hospital to deliver bedside respiratory care services are either legally recognized by the state as competent to provide respiratory care services or hold the CRT or RRT credential. Respiratory therapists are available 24 hours. Other personnel qualified to perform specific respiratory procedures and the amount of supervision required for personnel to carry out specific procedures must be designated in writing.A doctor of medicine or osteopathy is designated as medical director of respiratory care services.Hospital policy prohibits the routine delivery of medicated aerosol treatments utilizing small volume nebulizers, metered dose inhalers, or intermittent positive pressure treatments to multiple patients simultaneously. Circumstances under which this practice is permitted is defined by policy. Use a process that periodically compares performance on efficiency and quality metrics with similar departments for the purpose of identifying and achieving best practice. The AARC's QRCR program grew out of growing concerns among health care leaders and the general public regarding the safety and quality of health care services provided to patients. Hospitals that meet QRCR requirements provide a level of respiratory care consistent with national standards and guidelines, and should be commended for their commitment to quality care. Respiratory therapists are specially trained health care professionals who work under physician's orders to provide a wide range of breathing treatments and other services to people with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis, lung cancer, AIDS, and other lung or lung-related conditions. They are key members of lifesaving response teams charged with handling medical emergencies. Respiratory care is only one of the quality services which earned Barnesville Hospital recognition as a HealthStrong Award winner. In the first comprehensive rating of Critical Access Hospitals, Barnesville Hospital was recognized by iVantage Health Analytics as one of the top one hundred Critical Access Hospitals in the nation. This tremendous honor is based on 56 performance indicators including quality, outcomes, patient perspective, affordability and efficiency. For more information about Barnesville Hospital and its services, visit the hospital website at Barnesville Hospital, find us on Facebook at Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc. or call (740) 425-5158.

Barnesville Hospital Advocates for Patients in the Fight Against Drug Shortages

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

It is a well known fact that drugs are important in the treatment of medical conditions. However, many drugs are currently in very short supply, having the potential to affect you whether you are being treated in a hospital or taking drugs at home. The shortages involve cancer drugs, anesthetics used in surgery, drugs used in the care of patients with infections and pain, and electrolytes needed for patients receiving IV feedings. "This is a growing problem in our country. It has the potential to impact any one of us," states David Phillips, Chief Operating Officer at Barnesville Hospital. "It does not matter if you are in Barnesville Hospital, The Ohio State University Medical Center or any of the hospitals across the state and country. It is already impacting health care decisions in hospitals across this country, regardless of size." In 2010, there were 178 drug shortages reported to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration. The number of shortages in 2011 shot up to 267, well above the prior record and about four times the number of 58 reported in 2004. More than 80% of the drugs in short supply are the older, sterile, injectable drugs which have been a mainstay in hospitals. These drugs are normally inexpensive because they are no longer patent protected and have been made available as generics. As a result, some drug companies have decided to stop production of these types of drugs due to the insufficient economic incentive, favoring newer, more profitable drugs. The FDA cannot require a manufacturer to keep making a drug it wants to discontinue. Peggy Douglass, MSN, Director of Education at Barnesville Hospital states, "In many cases, only one or two suppliers are left. This doesn't provide much flexibility when one of these companies has a manufacturing problem of some kind." According to Joe Jeffries, R.Ph., Director of Pharmacy at Barnesville Hospital, "We dedicate a significant amount of time dealing with the drug shortage problem. These are medications we use every day and we want to be able to supply our doctors with appropriate therapies to treat patients." Drugs currently posing an issue for Barnesville Hospital staff include those used for nausea, alleviation of pain, injectable antibiotics, vitamin K, and the anticoagulant, Heparin. Jeffries states, "While in many cases there are alternatives, these are also becoming hard to find." The FDA reports having prevented an additional 100 new shortages in 2011. This is partly due to an executive order issued by President Obama in October, with provisions requiring more manufacturers to report potential drug shortages in advance to the FDA. Besides disrupting patient care, the shortages have lead to unprecedented price gouging in some parts of the country. In one case that's being investigated by Congress, a vendor outside the normal supply chain offered to sell a hospital a chemotherapy drug that normally cost about $12 for more than $900. On Friday, January 20, 2012, U.S. Senator, Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, joined in a round-table discussion with more than 50 representatives from medical associations and 32 Ohio hospitals, including Mr. Phillips and Mr. Jeffries from Barnesville Hospital, at the Ohio State University's Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital. The senator was there to talk about proposed legislation intended to mitigate the drug shortages. Senator Brown is calling on the Senate to pass the Preserving Access to Life-Saving Medications Act, which would require drug manufacturers to alert hospitals when they encounter a shortage of a specific drug. Based on the findings that inspired the bill, Senator Brown said any number of factors play into the shortages, including problems with the raw material supply chain, shipping, and manufacturers stockpiling drugs in short supply to sell at higher prices. Speaking on behalf of Barnesville Hospital, Mr. Jeffries states, "We are deeply concerned and support the efforts of Senator Brown and encourage others to do something about these shortages." Serving as a patient advocate in this ongoing fight against drug shortages is part of the quality services which earned Barnesville Hospital recognition as a HealthStrong Award Winner. In the first comprehensive rating of Critical Access Hospitals, Barnesville Hospital was recognized by iVantage Health Analytics as one of the top one hundred Critical Access Hospitals in the nation. This tremendous honor is based on 56 performance indicators including quality, outcomes, patient perspective, affordability and efficiency. For more information about Barnesville Hospital and its services, visit the hospital website at Barnesville Hospital, find us on Facebook at Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc. or call (740) 425-5158.

Barnesville Hospital Receives Rural Health Outreach Grant from MultiPlan

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

MultiPlan, Inc., the nation’s oldest and largest independent PPO network, has awarded Barnesville Hospital in Barnesville, Ohio a MultiPlan Rural Health Outreach Grant. Barnesville Hospital was selected from 114 applicants and was one of only 10 to be awarded a grant through this year’s program. With these funds, Barnesville Hospital will provide a program to Prevent Post Concussion Syndrome in High School Athletes. “Each year more than 60,000 high school athletes sustain a concussion,” said Richard Doan, Chief Executive Officer, Barnesville Hospital. “Unfortunately, many athletes never get an evaluation that would reveal an injury or an assessment to determine when it is safe to return to play their sport. We are extremely grateful to MultiPlan for providing funding for our hospital to acquire the tools to evaluate and monitor concussions for area high school athletes.” Dr. Shaun Roe, Family Practice Physician, Morristown Family Practice Center will provide consultation to the Athletic Directors and coaches at area schools and would assist in the implementation of the Concussion Management System. Athletes who are at the highest risk such as football, soccer, wrestling and others would be offered the opportunity to receive a baseline concussion assessment at no charge. If an athlete is suspected of having a concussion, a post injury test will be provided which can assist to determine the severity of the injury and can also help to determine when it is safe for the student to resume play. Participating school districts include Barnesville Village Exempted School District, Union Local School District, and Switzerland of Ohio School District. “The proper evaluations of concussion in high school athletes are an increasing concern,” said Mark Cook, Athletic Director, Barnesville Village Exempted School District. “We are pleased to partner with Barnesville Hospital to implement the Concussion Management Program. This will provide us with improved tools to evaluate concussions and if a concussion has occurred to determine when it is safe for an athlete to return to play.” Since 1995, MultiPlan has awarded nearly $390,000 to rural facilities participating in its networks to enable them to introduce or expand health services, educational programs, screenings and other healthcare related endeavors that support their communities. “Now more than ever, hospitals in rural communities are challenged to provide healthcare solutions across an ever broadening spectrum of health concerns.” stated Dr. Anthony Sposato, Corporate Medical Director for MultiPlan, “Our Rural Health Outreach Grant, with its open guidelines, empowers our rural partners to reach out within their communities with the programs and services that target their specific needs.” For more information about this program and other community-related programs offered to MultiPlan hospitals, visit the MultiPlan website at www.multiplan.com/providers.

Barnesville Hospital Laboratory Awarded Accreditation by Joint Commission

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

Barnesville Hospital has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval™ for accreditation by demonstrating compliance with The Joint Commission’s national standards for health care quality and safety in laboratories. The accreditation award recognizes Barnesville Hospital’s dedication to continuous compliance with The Joint Commission’s state-of-the-art standards. Barnesville Hospital underwent a rigorous unannounced on-site survey in November 2011. A Joint Commission expert surveyor evaluated Barnesville Hospital for compliance with standards of care that directly affect the quality and safety of diagnostic services and patient care. “We continually strive to improve the quality of our services, and meeting the Joint Commission’s rigorous national standards is an important recognition for our efforts,” said Lori Leary, BS, MT. (ASCP), Laboratory Manager. According to Ms. Leary, “The Joint Commission evaluated the laboratory’s performance in complying with standards related to quality control, safety, infection control, leadership, management of human resources, management of information, ongoing performance improvement activities, and other issues.” "In achieving Joint Commission accreditation, Barnesville Hospital has demonstrated its commitment to the highest level of care for its patients," says Jennifer Rhamy, M.B.A., M.A., M.T. (ASCP) SBB, HP, Executive Director, Laboratory Accreditation Program, The Joint Commission. “Accreditation is a voluntary process and I commend Barnesville Hospital for successfully undertaking this challenge to elevate its standard of care and instill confidence in the community it serves.” "With Joint Commission accreditation, we are making a significant investment in quality on a day-to-day basis from the top down. Joint Commission accreditation provides us a framework to take our organization to the next level and helps create a culture of excellence,” says Rick Doan, CEO. “For our organization, achieving Joint Commission accreditation is a major step toward maintaining excellence and continually improving the care we provide.” The Joint Commission has been evaluating and accrediting laboratory services since 1979. Today, The Joint Commission accredits almost 2,000 organizations providing laboratory services. This represents almost 3,000 Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment certificate laboratories, including independent reference labs and in vitro fertilization labs, and those connected with other health care organizations such as hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers and long-term care facilities. The Joint Commission’s laboratory standards emphasize the results a laboratory should achieve instead of emphasizing the technical methods of performing testing, and were developed with input from professional laboratory organizations. Joint Commission standards address processes that follow laboratory specimens from the doctor’s order into the laboratory from specimen collection then back to the patient through result reporting, focusing on the provision of high quality, safe laboratory services integrated with patient care. These standards highlight the essential nature of laboratory services on the actual care and service delivery processes that contribute to and support the overall health care delivery system. Dr. Sam Nassar, Laboratory Director, says efforts to improve don’t stop when the Joint Commission survey is over. “Meeting the standards and achieving excellence is a continuous process,” he says. “No matter how well we did today, we want to do better tomorrow.”

MORRISTOWN PHARMACY & HOMECARE ACCREDITED BY THE JOINT COMMISSION

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

Morristown Pharmacy & Homecare in Belmont has successfully completed an unannounced survey and achieved accreditation from the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations for its’ Home Medical Equipment Division. Joint Commission accreditation means Morristown Pharmacy & Homecare has demonstrated compliance with national standards for patient safety and quality of care. “We seek accreditation for our organization because we want to demonstrate our commitment to patient safety and quality care,” says Lisa Whitacre, Homecare Manager. “We view obtaining Joint Commission accreditation as another step toward achieving excellence.” Founded in 1951, the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations seeks to continuously improve the safety and quality of care provided to the public through the provision of health care accreditation and related services that support performance improvement in health care organizations. The Joint Commission evaluates and accredits nearly 17,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States, including approximately 9,000 hospitals and home care organizations, and 8,000 other health care organizations that provide long term care, assisted living, behavioral health care, laboratory, and ambulatory care services. The Joint Commission also accredits health plans, integrated delivery networks, and other managed care entities. An independent, not-for-profit organization, the Joint Commission is the nation’s oldest and largest standards-setting and accrediting body in health care. Morristown Pharmacy & Homecare, which provides the surrounding counties with home medical equipment, supplies, respiratory equipment, orthopedics, and prescription services, received the accreditation award after the Joint Commission found that their Homecare division had demonstrated compliance with national standards. The unannounced, on-site survey occurred in October. “In becoming accredited, Morristown Pharmacy & Homecare has demonstrated its’ commitment to provide the highest quality of care to it’s’ customers,” said Mrs. Whitacre. “We have always taken pride in the quality of care we provide to our customers and this accreditation confirms our commitment to excellence within our industry.” Accreditation is attainable only through the cooperation and communication among staff members. Whitacre believes that the outstanding results attained through this accreditation could not have been achieved without the commitment and motivation of a dedicated staff. “Everyone here at Morristown Pharmacy & Homecare plays a valuable role in working toward meeting the standards. We are all proud of our efforts and proud to be working in an accredited organization,” said Mrs. Whitacre.

Barnesville Hospital Announces Online Payments and Donations

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Barnesville Hospital announces that patients may now pay on their accounts at Barnesville Hospital, Belmont Professional Associates, and Morristown Pharmacy and Homecare online. This week the hospital launched its online payment program designed to make it more convenient to pay on an account. To utilize the online payment program, patients can access the hospital website at Barnesville Hospital and click on the "Pay Online" button in the top right corner of the homepage. Patients of Dr. Joseph Durkalski, Dr. Shaun Roe, Dr. Keith Knupp, and Dr. Joel Link may pay on their accounts by accessing Belmont Professional Associates and clicking on the "Pay Online" button. Customers of Morristown Pharmacy and Homecare may pay by accessing Morristown Pharmacy & Homecare and clicking "Pay Your Bill Online." These sites are easy to use and may be accessed 24 hours/day, 7 days/week by our patients and customers. Payments may be made via credit or debit card or electronic check which takes the payment directly from the designated bank account. Barnesville Hospital is proud to offer this service to all our customers. Barnesville Hospital Foundation announces online donation as well. Barnesville Hospital Foundation is a nonprofit foundation, which supports Barnesville Hospital by cultivating philanthropic support to ensure that Barnesville Hospital will always be a progressive health care leader and a vital resource for Barnesville and for Southeastern Ohio. Through its online donation program, patients and patrons may donate to the foundation by accessing the website at Barnesville Hospital Foundation. Like the online payment program, donations may be made by credit or debit card or electronic check. The online payment and online donation programs utilize the same technology as making a purchase or renewing licenses online. We invite everyone to check out our websites and consider using these convenient online programs.

QUALITY CARING PARTNERS

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Local Emergency Squads and Fire Departments reflect our local way of life here in the Ohio Valley. Paramedics and EMTs give their time unselfishly in order to serve others. They are the ones we count upon in our darkest hours as we look to for reassurance and life-saving response to emergencies. However, they face challenges beyond that of risking their lives and their health. These local departments are challenged with the economic struggles and lack of funding that can exist when serving an entire community 24 hours per day. Departments throughout the country have had to go beyond volunteers and employ personnel in order to cover round the clock. They have had to consider other sources of revenue such as fundraising, levies and other sources. Today, the Villages of Barnesville and Bethesda have found a way to help stabilize the future of their Fire and EMS services by partnering with Barnesville Hospital. The two Villages have entered into an agreement with the Hospital to provide routine patient transport services for the facility. It is envisioned that this relationship will accomplish many goals. It will allow the Villages to staff their departments more effectively. It will provide a source of income for those departments to reinvest in equipment and personnel. It will allow the Hospital to partner with the communities it serves to benefit the patients. “It allows us the opportunity to work more with our community partners and reinvest into our local communities.” stated Rick Doan, Barnesville Hospital CEO. The two departments will rotate coverage days and provide the necessary services to the Hospital. In the event that one of the stations is unavailable due to emergency response in the community, the other station will provide back up for the transport. The departments have also partnered through mutual aid agreements with the Belmont and Somerton departments to provide mutual aid for emergency response. “Emergency response to the communities will still be our priority. We have plans in place to address that need and make sure it is met.” stated Bob Smith, Barnesville Fire Chief. “This will give us the opportunity to make sure our Fire Department is here for years to come.” stated Neil Hunt, Bethesda Fire Chief. In the coming months, an advisory board will be formed to help with the program. Barnesville Hospital is not the first local hospital to partner with their local departments. East Ohio Regional Hospital has been working with the Martins Ferry Fire Department in a similar manner for several years now. For additional information please contact Peggy Douglass, Barnesville Hospital at 740-425-5158 or Tim Hall, Barnesville Fire at 740-425-1916.

Mel Milburn Recognized For 25 Years of Service to Barnesville Hospital

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EDT

By definition, community service is donated service or activity that is performed by someone for the benefit of the public or its institutions and should be done because of a desire to help, not because of a requirement. This exemplifies Mel Milburn’s philosophy and his service to the Board of Trustees at Barnesville Hospital. He joined the Board of Trustees at Barnesville Hospital in June of 1986. He would then become Board President in 1992 after the death of long time Board President George W. Cheffy. Mr. Milburn was recognized for 25 years of service at a recent Board of Trustee meeting where, Rick Doan, CEO of Barnesville Hospital, stated, “It is hard to believe it has been 25 years. Mr. Milburn has given unselfishly to the volunteer board his time, his talents, and his commitment. During that time, the hospital has endured many challenges, but has sustained under his leadership. We have witnessed acquisition of state-of-the art technology, provision of additional services, and formation of the Belmont Professional Associates, bringing needed physicians to the area.” According to Mr. Milburn, “My mother always said, "We are called to serve." “Barnesville Hospital is the heart beat of the community and, without it, there would be people in our community who would go without healthcare,” according to Milburn. “When Gary Lehman, former hospital administrator, asked me to serve on the board, I didn't have to think about it. I was honored to serve.” Milburn’s other community service includes Past President of Barnesville Rotary, Friendship Lodge #89 Free & Accepted Masons, First United Methodist Church, and volunteers for the Meals on Wheels program at Barnesville Hospital. When asked his most memorable accomplishment while serving on the Board, Mr. Milburn states, “I can't take credit for any of the accomplishments that have been made. It is due to the efforts of an administrative team that is second to none. And it doesn’t stop there -- It is due to the entire staff of caring and dedicated caregivers. There have been so many accomplishments, from the renovation in the late 1990's to the digital mammography machine most recently. I would like to stay on the board until the Emergency Room renovation becomes a reality.” According to Milburn, “The most difficult challenges are keeping a positive bottom line in an atmosphere of government cuts in reimbursements and finding resources to pay for advancements in technology.” Born and raised in New Martinsville, WV, Mr. Milburn graduated from Magnolia High School. It was during this time that a local funeral director planted the seed for Milburn’s future vocation. He recounts, “In our senior yearbook we listed occupations that we wanted to pursue. The funeral director saw his daughter's yearbook and sent me information on the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science. Seven years later I was cleaning my desk out and found the information. The rest is history.” After high school, he attended West Liberty State College where he graduated in 1970 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business and Marketing and later graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science in 1974. Milburn received the Bowsher Medal for excellence in restorative art and the Mu Sigma Alpha Award for academic proficiency. Mr. Milburn completed his apprenticeship for embalming and funeral directing in Cleveland. It was while attending West Liberty State College that he met his future wife, the former Pam Ball of Barnesville. With a chuckle and a wink at Pam, Mel recalls, “It was the first day of my junior year of college and Pam's first day of her freshman year. She walked into the cafeteria and I told my buddies that I was going to take her out. Someone beat me to the punch and I didn't get an opportunity to ask her out until we graduated and she moved to New Martinsville for her first Dental Hygiene job. She cleaned my teeth, I asked her out, and 40 years later it's 2011.” They moved to Barnesville after living in Wakeman, Ohio, a small town of 600 people near Cleveland, for 6 years. His first day at Campbell-Plumly Funeral Home was January 8, 1982. In 1988, he & wife, Pam, purchased the business from Francis and Nancy Plumly and the name was changed to Campbell-Plumly-Milburn Funeral Home. Mel and Pam have three children and four grandsons: Mindy (Matt) Johnson and two boys, Payne and Hank; Natalie (TJ) Doan and two sons, Jack and Liam; and Chase Milburn who is in his third year at Ohio University Eastern. According to William Chaney, Vice-Chair and long-time member of Barnesville Hospital’s Board of Trustees, “Mel has done a magnificent job as President of the Board for so many years. He seems to be anxious to continue to serve into the future.”

Hospital makes point of collection easier

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EDT

As was announced last week, Barnesville Hospital will begin to offer its Point of Service (POS) Collection Program on November 1, 2011. Point of Service Collection refers to allowing patients to pay their insurance co-payment amount at the time of service. The co-payments collected will be ER co-payments and any other co-payments designated on the patient’s insurance card. Any additional co-payments that are known to the patient may also be paid at the time of service. Patients with no health insurance coverage will be asked to pay a modest down payment amount at the time of service. Down payment amounts will range from $20 to $100 depending on the service being provided. Barnesville Hospital has already implemented a down payment program for patients having non-emergent surgery. Down payment amounts for the surgery program are based on the patient’s family’s income. No patient will ever be turned away or refused services due to inability to pay. Patients unable to pay their insurance co-payment or down payment amount at the time of service will be referred to the hospital’s Patient Financial Counselor to discuss payment options and financial assistance. For more information on Point of Service Collections, call 425-5053.

Barnesville Hospital Makes Co-Payments Easier

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Barnesville Hospital will begin to offer a Point of Service (POS) Collection Program on November 1, 2011. Point of Service Collection refers to allowing patients to pay their health insurance co-payment amount at the time of service. Additionally, the hospital will ask for a modest down payment from patients with no health insurance coverage. Many hospitals in the area have already implemented a Point of Service Collection Program with much success. In a time of decreasing reimbursements from Medicare and Medicaid, hospitals must operate in a fiscally sound manner to be able to provide needed health care to patients. By implementing the Point of Service Collections, the hospital will attempt to collect some of the money due at the time of service. This will keep the patient from receiving a bill later and save the hospital billing costs. Barnesville Hospital is a not-for-profit hospital providing acute care services to the patients of western Belmont County, Monroe County, and portions of Noble, Guernsey, and Harrison Counties. The Emergency Department also provides immediate health care services for patients visiting in or passing through the area. As always, quality caring is Barnesville Hospital's first priority, and no patient will be turned away or refused care for inability to pay. However, health care is also a business and must operate as such. Each year, Barnesville Hospital provides free and discounted care to individuals who are unable to pay for their health care services. In 2010, the free care provided was over $700,000. The Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services (ODJFS) will reimburse the hospital approximately 25% of that amount through its HCAP program. Also in 2010, the hospital provided over $430,000 in discounted care through its financial assistance program. Thus, Barnesville Hospital provided over $1.1 million in free and charity care in 2010. Additionally, over $1.3 million in uncompensated care, or the amount not paid on outstanding accounts for services, was also provided by the hospital. As stated earlier, no patient will be turned away due to inability to pay. If you have questions about Point of Service Collections, call 425-5053.

Barnesville Hospital Named in Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EDT

The National Rural Health Association (NRHA) announced today at its Critical Access Hospital Conference the names of the Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) in America. Barnesville Hospital is the only hospital in the tristate area to be recognized for this achievement. The Top 100 scored best on the Hospital Strength Index™, in this first-ever comprehensive rating of CAHs. These hospitals are the safety net to communities across the country This Index offers hospital executives, trustees and boards of directors an objective way to measure their relative performance among their 1,325 peers and across 56 different performance metrics, the most comprehensive tool on the market. "Now is the time for us to advance the analytics and transparency of the rural health sector. We play such a critical role in providing needed care to Americans, yet our challenges are completely different in access while equally complex in delivery as urban hospitals. We celebrate this diversity and these every day challenges and will need new solutions to ensure our sustainability under the Affordable Care Act. NRHA is committed to advancing performance improvement in our hospitals," said Alan Morgan, Chief Executive Officer of the National Rural Health Association. The Hospital Strength Index™, reflects the multiple challenges of running a hospital by incorporating the measures on which the industry has worked to gain consensus and standardization. "Rural hospitals have new and difficult demands, that can only be managed with better information," said Hud Connery, President, iVantage Health Analytics. "Bringing together the disparate performance information and making sense of what is already a complex analytical process is critical as health reform becomes a reality. iVantage Health is best positioned in the rural markets to offer meaningful business analytics." The Hospital Strength Index™, incorporates 56 different measures of performance to help identify those hospitals that are best prepared for success under the new healthcare. The Index includes a unique set of measures rating Market Strength, Value-based Strength and Financial Strength as key pillars for benchmarking and setting new goals under health reform.

Barnesville Hospital Foundation Presents Check for Digital Mammography

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EDT

The Barnesville Hospital Foundation presented a $50,000 check to be used as matching funds for Digital Mammography. This gift will be used to support a $190,000 USDA Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant. Barnesville Hospital began providing Digital Mammography on September 1st. "The Barnesville Hospital Foundation's mission is to work to guarantee that Barnesville Hospital has the resources needed to improve the community's health," said John Rataiczak, Foundation Board Chair. "We are pleased to be able to make this gift which will work to improve the health and access to care for area women." Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women in the United States. Digital mammography is shown to be more sensitive in the detection of breast cancer and improving the quality of the studies, reducing the radiation exposure, and reducing the travel burdens experienced by many of the patients. Digital Mammography provides improvement in image storage, transmissions, and manipulation of images for a better clinical interpretation. The American Cancer Society recommends yearly mammograms starting at age 40. "We are so grateful for the Foundation, the Auxiliary, the USDA, and others who worked together to make Digital Mammography a reality for our community," said Karen Mihalic, Barnesville Hospital Imaging Operations Manager. "The women who have used our Digital Mammography have been extremely pleased with the increased comfort, the private waiting area, and the care they received. It is extremely gratifying to be able to provide a service which area women have been requesting." An Open House will be held at Barnesville Hospital 2-4p.m Wednesday, September 28th to celebrate the hospital's new Digital Mammography services. Tours will take place in the Diagnostics Imaging Department to view the latest technology in Women's Breast Health. At 2:30 p.m. in the classroom we'll recognize the USDA and others who made digital mammography a reality at Barnesville Hospital. All community members are invited to stop out for the Open House. For more information regarding the Open House or Digital Mammography call Barnesville Hospital Diagnostic Imaging at 425- 5114.

Barnesville Hospital Hosts Women's Health Day on September 28, 2011

Sun, 04 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EDT

On Wednesday, September 28, 2011, an estimated 80,000 to 100,000 women across the nation will participate in the Tenth Annual National Women's Health & Fitness Day. Barnesville Hospital will sponsor a Women's Health Day on Wednesday, September 28th and an Open House for the new Digital Mammography service. Beginning at 8:00 a.m., participants will join women across the country to improve their health. Peggy Douglass, Director of Education & Outreach at Barnesville Hospital says, "We want to demonstrate the importance of women's health issues. A day full of activities is planned where women of all ages will have a chance to participate in a variety of health screenings and informational sessions." Activities planned include: 8:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. AND 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Health Screening - Blood Pressure - Glucose - Cholesterol - Fitness Evaluation - Pulmonary Function Screening - DexaScan Screening for Osteoporosis - Screening for Peripheral Vascular Disease 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Viewing of Displays 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Open House for Digital Mammography - Diagnostic Imaging Department - Registration not required for Open House 2:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Program - Importance of Digital Mammography - Acknowledgement of Support - Hospital Classroom - All Welcome In addition to the screenings listed, laboratory tests will be available for $10. Changes in various blood components and body chemistry may signal approaching disease, which provide an opportunity for preventive measures to be implemented. Participants can have a Basic Metabolic Profile (BMP) or Lipid Profile. The BMP is a blood test that measures glucose level, electrolyte & fluid balance, and kidney function. The Lipid Profile measures fats and fatty substances used as a source of energy in your body. Lipids include cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, and LDL. This testing is designed for adults 18 and older. All individuals requesting the testing must fast at least 12 hours prior to the time blood is drawn. No food or drink except water should be consumed; however, scheduled medications should be taken. Also, please do not smoke the morning of the screening. "Area women can take control of their health by learning how to make smart health choices. All women are invited to register for the health screening," said Richard Doan, CEO. "Everyone is also invited to attend the Open House for digital mammography which is being held at the conclusion of the screenings." Digital mammography is shown to be more sensitive in the detection of breast cancer and exposes women to less radiation. Digital mammography also provides improvements in image storage and transmission, allowing off site radiologists to read and assess the images in real time. "Digital mammography is quickly becoming the standard of care and we are extremely pleased to offer the latest in Digital Mammography at Barnesville Hospital. The generous support of the USDA Distance Learning and Telemedicine grant made the purchase of Digital Mammography possible," said Doan. "A number of other organizations and individuals provided matching funds. We are extremely grateful for the community support we received." With the exception of laboratory-performed tests, the screenings are free and all women are encouraged to participate. An appointment is required for the health screenings. For an appointment call (740) 425-5158. Barnesville Hospital is the only 24-hour critical access hospital serving Monroe county, western Belmont county, and parts of Noble, Harrison, and Guernsey counties. For more information on Barnesville Hospital and the services provided, visit Barnesville Hospital's website or call Peggy Douglass, M.S., R.N.C., Director of Education & Outreach at (740) 425-5158.

Barnesville Hospital and East Ohio Regional Hospital Collaborate to Host Grain Bin Safety & Rescue Program for EMS Personnel at

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EDT

In 2010, there were 51 reported grain entrapments in the United States, up from 38 cases in 2009. Twenty-six of those were fatal. Over the past decade, 19 deaths have been recorded in Ohio related to flowing grain involving grain wagons, grain bins, feed mills, grain hoppers and other grain-related equipment. It's because of one of these tragedies that a group of rescuers began to offer grain bin safety workshops throughout Ohio to help prevent entrapments and to prepare first responders in case of emergency. For anyone who works with grain in storage bins, loading, unloading and moving it, you should take time to recognize the hazards of flowing grain and how to prevent a grain entrapment situation. People can become caught or trapped in grain in three different ways: the collapse of bridged grain, the collapse of a vertical wall of grain, and entrapment in flowing grain. Moving or flowing grain is involved in all three. Flowing grain will not support the weight of a person. It will pull a person down and into the grain mass as it flows. The "suction" action is strong enough that a person cannot "swim," climb, or walk against it and get out. As grain flows out of a bin the victim will be pulled down and under very quickly with little time to react. A person cannot be pulled from flowing grain without risk of injury to the spinal column if the grain is at waist level or higher. The grain will have a very strong grip on the body. Research has shown that up to 400 lbs. of pull is required to extract a body from waist-deep grain. That is more than enough force to permanently damage someone's spinal column. Barnesville Hospital and East Ohio Regional Hospital will be providing an opportunity for firefighters, EMTs, paramedics and other rescue personnel to earn continuing education credits by participating in a live demonstration of grain rescue at the Belmont County Fair on Thursday, September 8th, beginning at 5:00 p.m. in the demolition derby pit at the fairground. The demonstration will focus on five topics: awareness of grain bin dangers, actions to take prior to the arrival of first responders, extrication techniques using a coffer dam, types of grain bin injuries, and treatment of grain bin injuries. To demonstrate the objectives a grain trailer filled with corn will be used. Andy Bauer, a lifetime farmer who helped to form the Champaign Landmark Bin Rescue Team in 2006, will lead the live demonstration. If you have questions or need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact Peggy Douglass, M.S., R.N.C., Director of Education & Outreach at (740) 425-5158, pdouglass@barnesvillehospital.com or Albert Bond, R.N., B.S.N., CEN, NREMT-P, Nurse Manager Trauma Services at (740) 633-4736, abond@ovrh.org.

Barnesville Hospital Auxiliary Presents Check for Digital Mammography

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EDT

The Barnesville Hospital Auxiliary presented a $25,000 check for Digital Mammography to Richard Doan, CEO, Barnesville Hospital, during their annual picnic. This gift will be used in conjunction with a $190,000 USDA Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant to assist with the purchase of Digital Mammography. Installation of Digital Mammography is underway and patients will be accepted beginning September 1st. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women in the United States. Digital mammography is shown to be more sensitive in the detection of breast cancer and improving the quality of the studies, reducing the radiation exposure, and reducing the travel burdens experienced by many of the patients. Digital mammography also provides improvements in image storage and transmission allowing off site radiologists to read and assess the images in real time. The American Cancer Society recommends yearly mammograms starting at age 40. "The Auxiliary have been tremendous supporters of the hospital over the years. However, this gift is especially meaningful as it will assist us to provide a service which area women want and deserve," said Richard Doan. "A sincere thank you to members of the Auxiliary for all they do on behalf of the hospital throughout the year." Barnesville Hospital Auxiliary Officers include Co-Presidents Carol Crooks and Julie McCort; Vice President, Chris Mellinger; Co-Treasurers Cindy Ferguson and Norma Cunningham; Secretary Lynn Atkinson, and Corresponding Secretary Verna Kaiser. "A special thank you to Ruth Anderson, Director of Volunteers, whose hard work contributes directly to the success of the auxiliary," said Carol Crooks, Auxiliary Co-President. "Ruth is often behind the scenes setting up and taking down and is always there when you need her." For information about joining the Barnesville Hospital Auxiliary contact Ruth Anderson, 740- 425- 5113.

Barnesville Hospital Hosts Grain Bin Safety & Rescue Program for EMS Personnel at Monroe County Fair

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EDT

In 2010, there were 51 reported grain entrapments in the United States, up from 38 cases in 2009. Twenty-six of those were fatal. Over the past decade, 19 deaths have been recorded in Ohio related to flowing grain involving grain wagons, grain bins, feed mills, grain hoppers and other grain-related equipment. It's because of one of these tragedies that a group of rescuers began to offer grain bin safety workshops throughout Ohio to help prevent entrapments and to prepare first responders in case of emergency. For anyone who works with grain in storage bins, loading, unloading and moving it, you should take time to recognize the hazards of flowing grain and how to prevent a grain entrapment situation. People can become caught or trapped in grain in three different ways: the collapse of bridged grain, the collapse of a vertical wall of grain, and entrapment in flowing grain. Moving or flowing grain is involved in all three. Flowing grain will not support the weight of a person. It will pull a person down and into the grain mass as it flows. The "suction" action is strong enough that a person cannot "swim," climb, or walk against it and get out. As grain flows out of a bin the victim will be pulled down and under very quickly with little time to react. A person cannot be pulled from flowing grain without risk of injury to the spinal column if the grain is at waist level or higher. The grain will have a very strong grip on the body. Research has shown that up to 400 lbs. of pull is required to extract a body from waist-deep grain. That is more than enough force to permanently damage someoneâs spinal column. Barnesville Hospital will be providing an opportunity for firefighters, EMTs, paramedics and other rescue personnel to earn continuing education credits by participating in a live demonstration of grain rescue at the Monroe County Fair on Thursday, August 25th, beginning at 5:00 p.m. at the Pavilion. The demonstration will focus on five topics: awareness of grain bin dangers, actions to take prior to the arrival of first responders, extrication techniques using a coffer dam, types of grain bin injuries, and treatment of grain bin injuries. To demonstrate the objectives a grain trailer filled with corn will be used. Andy Bauer, a lifetime farmer who helped to form the Champaign Landmark Bin Rescue Team in 2006, will lead the live demonstration. If you have questions or need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact Peggy Douglass, M.S., R.N.C., Director of Education & Outreach at (740) 425-5158 or by E-mail.

Barnesville Hospital Adds New Technology to Screen for Sleep Disorder Breathing

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EDT

SleepCare at Barnesville Hospital recently announced the addition of new technology that will aid physicians in the detection of sleep disorder breathing in the home or in the hospital. ApneaLink is a cell phone-size diagnostic device that is attached to the patient and records four channels of information during sleep including respiratory effort, heart rate, oxygen saturation and nasal air flow. "The data collected from the 4 channels is correlated with one another to determine when a patient's respiratory pattern changes or momentary stops, also know as an apnea. If the patient's respiratory pattern changes, ApneaLink will then evaluate the changes effect on the oxygen level of the blood and the heart rate," states Jeff Britton, MBA, RRT, RCP, Director of CardioPulmonary Services and Physician Relations at Barnesville Hospital. The recorded data is downloaded the next morning and analyzed via software. The report generated numerically indicates on a scale for the physician the likeness of the patient having sleep disorder breathing. "Previous screening methods have never been able to detect sleep disorder breathing as conclusively as ApneaLink," adds Britton. Sleep Disorder Breathing (SDB) is recognized as a serious health issue that impacts approximately 43 million adults in the United States according to a recent study published in The American Journal of Respiratory Critical Care Medicine. Sleep Disorder Breathing includes: Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Central Sleep Apnea, Nocturnal Hypoventilation and Cheyne-Stokes Respirations. Obstructive Sleep Apnea is the most prevalent form of Sleep Disorder Breathing and is characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep, which can result in both sleep disturbance and reduced oxygen delivery to vital organs. Common symptoms of OSA include snoring, daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, weight gain, depression, hypertension and a general lack of energy. Recent studies published in medical journals have established the relationship between Obstructive Sleep Apnea and cardiovascular disease such hypertension, coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation and congestive heart failure. Research has also linked Obstructive Sleep Apnea to Type II diabetes. A studied published in 2007 indicated as much as 48% of Type II diabetics have OSA. Accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine in 2009, SleepCare at Barnesville Hospital is a comprehensive, outpatient sleep disorders program designed to pinpoint, analyze and treat faulty sleep patterns in a variety of sleeping disorders. Under the medical direction of Dr.Attila Lenkey, board-certified pulmonologist and sleep medicine specialist and with the expertise of Dr. Gurmeet Singh, board-certified Neurologist, the sleep center provides services including Nocturnal Polysomnography (NPSG), Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT), Maintenance Wakefulness Test (MWT) and a complete patient education and follow-up program. For more information about the ApneaLink monitor and SleepCare at Barnesville Hospital, contact Jeff Britton, MBA, RRT, RCP, Director of Cardiopulmonary, at (740) 425-5144 or visit Barnesville Hospital's website at www.barnesvillehospital.com.

Barnesville Hospital Recognizes Volunteers

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Barnesville Hospital showed its' appreciation to the dedicated people who give of their time and energy throughout the year at the annual Volunteer Recognition Banquet held at Annie K's Restaurant. The Cabin Boys provided the entertainment for the evening. Members of the band include Wes Doudna, Ted Huntsman, Samantha Jefferis, Dave Norris, and Natasha Shilling. Over 9,000 hours were given by 155 volunteers and 7,406 meals were delivered. Volunteers are utilized throughout the hospital, including the gift shop, information desk, emergency room, diagnostic imaging, rehabilitation therapy, dietary, storeroom, Red Cross, candy stripers, solarium, and meal drivers. Candy Stripers receiving patches included Becky Huntsman, Taylor McCort, Shelly Tolewitz, Leanna Valentino, Jesicca Swaboda, Alexis Dodd, Alexis Vogler, and Shelby Childress. In addition to a patch, Leanna Valentino was recognized for 100 hours of service. Jody Graham and Janet Hudson provided 500 volunteer hours each, while Patty Bowyer, Wilbur Stanley and Gene Miller provided 1,000 volunteer hours each. Verna Kaiser had 3,000 hours and Mary Ann Delloma had 4,000 hours

Doan Ford Sponsor Again For Barnesville Hospital Scramble

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EDT

For the ninth year in a row, Doan Ford will be sponsoring the "hole in one" prize for the Barnesville Hospital Auxiliary Golf Scramble. Golfers will drive away in a 2012 Ford Fusion if they ace the Par 3 hole #2 at Belmont Hills Country Club at this year's event. The 9th Annual Barnesville Hospital Auxiliary Golf Scramble will be held Monday, August 8th, 2011 at Belmont Hills Country Club. Lunch will begin at 11:00am with a shotgun start at 12:30pm. The entry fee for the event is $120, which includes lunch, golf, refreshments on the course, and dinner afterwards. Also included in the entry fee will be mulligans, putting contest and skins game. This golf scramble is held each year to serve as a community outreach event for the hospital and also serve as a fundraiser for the Auxiliary organization. The Barnesville Hospital Auxiliary is instrumental in the purchase of medical equipment used in direct patient care at the hospital. For more information or to be part of this event, contact Jeff Britton at 425-5144, Joe Jeffries at 425-5108 or Dave Phillips at 425-5109. Additional information can also be obtained by visiting the hospital website at www.barnesvillehospital.com.

Barnesville Hospital Hosts Program on Management of Bath Salts Toxicity

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EDT

These are not your grandmother's bath salts! The term "bath salts" used to refer to substances that were mixed with bath water to add fragrances and cleansing qualities to a relaxing soak in the tub. Those chemicals had names that are familiar to many people - magnesium sulfate (Epsom salts), sodium chloride (table salt), sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), sodium hexametaphosphate (Calgon) and Borax. Today's bath salts, coming in $20-$40 packets, are legally available in convenience stores, carry-outs, truck stops and on the Internet, and come with the disclaimer, "not for human consumption," preventing its regulation under Federal law where any substance "substantially similar" to a banned drug is deemed illegal if intended for consumption. While the "bath salts" come with gentle-sounding names like Ivory Wave, Bliss, White Lightning, Cloud Nine, Scarface, Blue Silk, Zoom, Bloom, Ivory Snow, Red Dove, Vanilla Sky and Hurricane Charlie, their effects are similar to amphetamines when snorted, smoked, injected, or even mixed with water as a beverage. These new bath salts cause intense cravings, paranoia, hallucinations, suicidal thoughts and violent behavior. According to one expert, if you take the worst effects of other drugs, such as LSD, Ecstasy, PCP, cocaine, and meth, and combine them together, you achieve the effect of bath salts. Once a user gets to the emergency room, they are not controlled with normal sedatives, even in high doses. One physician reported when a patient sedated for 12 days was weaned, the psychotic behavior returned. The huge concern is the possibility that some of these effects could be permanent because the components have never been tested on humans. Known long-term health issues include increased blood pressure, rapid heart rate, renal failure, and psychotic behavior. Management of the patient presenting with acute bath salt toxicity is driven by the symptoms exhibited, and the spectrum of possible presentations is quite varied. EMS providers and emergency department personnel must be prepared to protect the patient and themselves related to the use or overuse of these substances. Barnesville Hospital will be hosting a 1-hour continuing education program entitled "Bed, Bath and Beyond: The "Illicit" Use of Bath Salts" on Thursday, August 18th at 6:00 p.m. in the hospital's classroom. Presenter for the session will be Mark Laubacher, RN, BSN, CEN, CSPI, EMT-P, Certified Specialist in Poison Information at the Central Ohio Poison Center, in Columbus, Ohio. With no registration, the program is free to all healthcare professionals, EMS, and the general public. Poison control centers across the nation raised the first red flags about the effects of bath salts and other synthetic drugs. The centers logged 302 calls in 2010 related to bath salts. According to the American Association of Poison Control Centers, over 3,470 calls had been received through June of this year. Ohio lawmakers are attempting to join at least 10 other states in banning the substance. Bills to ban six derivatives found in bath salts have been proposed in both chambers of the Ohio legislation. The House version of the bill has been introduced to the Health & Aging Committee; however, the Senate version was delayed due to state budget debates. On the Federal level, the potential problem is still being evaluated. "We are actively studying and researching the abuse data to see if the compounds in "bath salts" warrant scheduling. We evaluate the addictive potential and the harm to the user," explained Rusty Payne, a spokesman for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). "But we are not the only agency involved -- the Department of Health and Human Services is also involved. It can take years, though it may not." According to Payne, the agency is also looking into whether it should try to get a 12-month emergency rule to control the substances. For more information on the continuing education program entitled "Bed, Bath and Beyond: The "Illicit" Use of Bath Salts" being held at Barnesville Hospital on Thursday, August 18th at 6:00 p.m., contact Peggy Douglass at (740) 425-5158.

The Importance of Vitamin D

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Dr. Shaun Roe will be speaking on "The Importance of Vitamin D" on Wednesday, July 20, 2011 at 5:30 p.m. in the Barnesville Hospital Classroom. This event is free and open to the community.

Barnesville Hospital Offering “Safe Sitter” Course

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Barnesville Hospital will be offering a "Safe Sitter" course for girls and boys age 11 to 13 on Wednesday, July 27th, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Barnesville First Christian Church New Life Center. The Safe Sitter program is a medically accurate program that teaches young adolescents how to handle emergencies when caring for younger children. The fee of $30 covers the cost of books and materials. Enrollment is limited to 20 students. Students need to bring a sack lunch and drink. The goal of Safe Sitter, a nationally recognized program, is to reduce the number of avoidable and unintentional deaths among children being cared for by babysitters. The course teaches sitters how to have fun with children, recognize a medical emergency and know the appropriate action to take, how to handle specific ages, injury prevention techniques, safety for the sitter and the children, care of the choking child, preventing problem behavior, and the business of babysitting. During the course, students get hands-on practice in basic lifesaving techniques so they are prepared to act in a crisis. All information is taught by trained Safe Sitter Instructors. To successfully complete the Safe Sitter program, the students have to pass a practical and written test to show that they have mastered the key concepts and have the skills necessary to handle an emergency. For further information or to register your son or daughter, contact Peggy Douglass, (740) 425-5158.

AEP Ohio Joins with Barnesville Hospital to Assist Customers with Medical Bills

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EDT

AEP Ohio and Barnesville Hospital have partnered to develop a plan to aid local residents with their hospital bills. AEP Ohio has provided Barnesville Hospital with a $15,000 grant to assist patients who are unable to afford the medical care they require and deserve. AEP Ohio customers who have no insurance, are between the ages of 55 and 64, and are below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines will be eligible for this program. These funds are part of the AEP Ohio's Partnership with Ohio funds to help out AEP Ohio's customers in its 67 county service area in the State of Ohio. "We thank AEP Ohio for playing an active and positive role in our communities," said Richard Doan, Chief Executive Officer, Barnesville Hospital. "By providing funding for some of our neediest patients, AEP Ohio is directly improving the quality of life of area residents." Dottie Minnich, Patient Financial Counselor, Barnesville Hospital, will work with Barnesville Hospital patients to determine their eligibility. "Barnesville Hospital treats all patients regardless of insurance coverage. However, the downturn in the economy has meant some local residents are facing tough times financially," said Minnich. "The AEP Ohio funds will be an additional resource to assist patients to afford the medical care they need." For information regarding the AEP funds call Dottie Minnich, Barnesville Hospital, 740-425-5136.

Barnesville Hospital Teams Up with the JB Green Team

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Barnesville Hospital recently teamed up with the JB Green Team to hold yet another successful unwanted medication collection. "Having events like our Pharmaceutical Take Back Program, allows Barnesville Hospital and Morristown Pharmacy to be both friendly to the environment and help law enforcement get unneeded narcotics off the street," noted Joe Jeffries, Pharmacy Director, Barnesville Hospital. Many Americans are not aware that medicines that sit in home cabinets are highly susceptible to theft, misuse, and abuse. Keeping unwanted medication in your home creates a safety hazard. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are increasing at alarming rates, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Unfortunately, those who abuse prescription drugs often get them from homes of friends and family. During the event, Barnesville Hospital was able to collect over 330 types of drugs, over 21,800 units of pills, liquids or creams, 1,709 of them being narcotics. "In just one day we collected and incinerated 51 pounds of expired medications, many of them dangerous narcotics," said Jeffries. "We want to thank the Bethesda Police Department and the Belmont County Drug Task Force for making this event possible." "Our staff at Morristown Pharmacy are grateful to the patients who took the time to clean out their medication cabinets of expired medications and bring them to our Pharmaceutical Take Back Event," stated Jeffries. The Pharmaceutical Take Back Program was made possible by a grant from the Jefferson Belmont Regional Solid Waste Authority.

Barnesville Hospital Mammography Services Receive MQSA Accreditation

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Getting a high quality mammogram on a regular basis is the most effective way to detect breast cancer early. The mammography department at Barnesville Hospital maintains a commitment to provide that high quality service. Recently, the department received complete compliance status and renewal of certification by the FDA through its MQSA (Mammography Quality Standards Act) inspection. The primary objective of the MQSA is to ensure that mammography is safe and reliable and that breast cancer is detected in its most treatable stages. The accreditation sets high practice standards for qualifications of personnel, adequacy of technology & equipment, and the technical quality of the actual mammography images produced. For example, physicians who interpret mammograms must be board certified or have three months training in mammography, technologists must keep their skills current by doing an average of 200 mammograms every two years, and medical physicists must ensure quality of mammography equipment and facilities. Under the guidance of Dr. Carter Kenamond, Imaging Medical Director; Karen Mihalic, RT R.M., Imaging Operations Manager; and Tiffany Hart-Gatten, Mammography Quality Coordinator, a team of seven registered mammography technologists perform over 1,000 mammograms annually at Barnesville Hospital. In addition to setting standards for personnel and equipment, the MQSA requires the facility to retain and transfer mammograms to a patient's physician. This is important because it aids diagnosis by allowing doctors to compare previous mammograms with new ones. Through the generosity of the Barnesville Hospital Auxiliary and a $190,000 grant from the USDA's Distance Learning and Telemedicine Program, Barnesville Hospital will be enhancing its' mammography services this fall with conversion to digital mammography. Digital mammography is shown to be more sensitive in the detection of breast cancer and exposes women to less radiation. Digital mammography also provides improvements in image storage and transmission, allowing off site radiologists to read and assess the images in real time. It also increases the number of women who can be screened each day as the actual exam takes less time. According to Rick Doan, Barnesville Hospital Chief Executive Officer, "Digital Mammography allows Barnesville Hospital to remain in the forefront of today's technology enabling us to provide area residents with the health care they need and deserve." The Diagnostic Imaging Department at Barnesville Hospital has been providing mammography services to the community for over 17 years, while following standards of both the American College of Radiology and the federal regulations of the Mammography Quality Standards Act which are surveyed by the Ohio Department of Heath. For information about Barnesville Hospital's Mammography Services, call (740) 425-5114. To schedule an appointment, contact Central Scheduling at (740) 425-5123.

Barnesville Hospital Collaborates With OSU Medical Center to Improve Stroke Care to Area Residents

Thu, 26 May 2011 00:00:00 EDT

The statistics are staggering. Stroke, also known as cardiovascular accident or CVA, affects 750,000 people annually and is the third leading cause of death in the U.S. Of the 4 million stroke survivors, 90% have some type of deficit or disability. It is that direct impact on patients and families that has lead Barnesville Hospital to collaborate with the Ohio State University Medical Center. In a medical emergency where every minute lost in treating a stroke could negatively impact the patient's outcome, immediate expert collaboration and intervention can help preserve brain function and prevent disability. The Ohio State University Medical Center received a $265K grant from the Ohio Department of Health to establish a stroke telemedicine network in largely rural southeastern Ohio. With OSU Medical Center serving as the hub, spoke hospitals in the network include Barnesville Hospital, Coshocton County Memorial Hospital, and Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center. Peggy Douglass, M.S., R.N.C., Director of Education and Outreach states, "Gurmeet Singh, M.D., a board certified neurologist currently on staff at Barnesville Hospital, has been a strong supporter and is actively involved in the planning and implementation of the project." OSU Medical Center, with a neurology and neurosurgery program ranked by U.S. News & World Report magazine as among the best in the country, has been nationally accredited by the Joint Commission as a primary stroke center. Through "state of the art" technology, Barnesville Hospital Emergency Department physicians will have rapid access to board certified vascular neurologists who can provide real-time consultation using video equipment, CT scans, and a web-based software. According to Rick Doan, FACHE, CEO, "This technology will allow patients in our service area the same expertise and protocols available at a tertiary care center and for virtually no additional cost." When a patient presents to the Emergency Department with stroke-like symptoms, Barnesville Hospital staff will initiate a "stroke alert" and immediately connect with OSU Medical Center vascular neurologists through a telemedicine link. "Telestroke will allow us to bring the specialized stroke expertise to the bedside at Barnesville Hospital in a fast and efficient way," said Dr. Michel Torbey, Medical Director of OSU Medical Center's Neurovascular Stroke Center. According to Ms. Douglass, "The on-call vascular neurologist at OSU Medical Center can review initial test results and directly evaluate and assess the patient with the assistance of our emergency department staff and the telemedicine equipment. The neurologist can review the patient's brain scans and is even available to interview the patient and family. Once the evaluation is completed, the OSU Medical Center physician will collaborate with the hospital's ED physician in deciding the best treatment options for the patient." "By collaborating with Barnesville Hospital, we come together to offer the best system of care to stroke patients," says Dr. Eric Sauvageau, Surgical Director of OSU Medical Center's Neurovascular Stroke Center. "Cooperation among the hospitals allows stroke patients to be treated beyond the regular timeframe using advanced tools to dissolve or remove clots that cause stroke and reverse the symptoms." "It is very important that you and your family become familiar with the potential signs and symptoms of stroke," according to Nancy Heaton, R.N., C.E.N., Clinical Nurse Coordinator. "Learn the signs of stroke: Face - does the face look uneven? Arm - does one arm drift down? Speech - does their speech sound strange?" The mission of Barnesville Hospital continues to be personalized, quality care, utilizing the latest in technology and the expertise of vascular neurologists at OSU Medical Center. Having these resources close to home can save valuable time in receiving necessary treatment. Time lost is brain lost. If you are interested in more information about the telestroke program or other services at Barnesville Hospital, contact Peggy Douglass, Director of Education & Outreach at (740) 425-5158 or visit the hospital's website at www.barnesvillehospital.com

Barnesville Hospital's Joe Jeffries Continues Family Tradition of Excellence

Sun, 15 May 2011 00:00:00 EDT

The Jeffries name has been well known in the Ohio Valley for many years in the pharmacy business. Joe Jeffries, R. Ph., recently continued to solidify that legacy by being selected as the Barnesville Hospital C.A.R.E. Giver of the Year. Joe Jeffries currently serves as the Director of Pharmacy Services for the Barnesville Hospital pharmacy and also the hospital's subsidiary, Morristown Pharmacy and Homecare. "The C.A.R.E. Giver of the Year honor is the highest honor an employee at the hospital can receive. The award is a vote of your peers," stated Beth Brill, Human Resource Director. Obviously, Jeffries' peers hold him in high regard. He was selected by them as the person who above all others most embodies the attributes of the award in his daily work. Those characteristics are Courtesy, Attitude, Respect and Enthusiasm. Joe Jeffries is a third generation pharmacist following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. Jeffries also has a brother and a sister in law in the pharmacy profession. He graduated from St. Clairsville High School in 1984 and pursued his pharmacy degree from Ohio Northern University. After an internship at Lima Memorial Hospital, he returned home to the Ohio Valley to join the family business, Jeffries Drugs. He would later serve as the Pharmacy Director for Riesbecks Food Markets. Jeffries also owned his own pharmacy, Jeffries Mortar and Pestle. In 2001, Jeffries joined Barnesville Hospital as the Pharmacy Director. He continues to serve that role today in addition to serving as the Pharmacy Director for Morristown Pharmacy and Homecare. "Joe takes the values and customer service he learned from his father Jim and still uses that today. He takes those traits and aligns them with today's technology to provide the highest level of care for those we serve," stated David Phillips, Chief Operating Officer for Barnesville Hospital. Jeffries commitment to serving people does not stop after he leaves work. He has served in various professional and personal organizations over the years. On the professional side he has served as President of the Ohio Pharmacists Association, Representative on Former Ohio Governor Taft's Business Advisory Council and countless others. On the personal side, he has been active with St. Clairsville Junior Sports and the Calvary Presbyterian Church and many other activities over the years. In addition to his service to the community, Joe finds time to make sure he fulfills his number one priority. That is being a great father and husband. Joe is married to Lisa Jeffries. They have two children, Lauren and Adam. "We are excited to have Joe as part of our Quality Caring Team. We are happy that he has received this honor from his peers. All members of our staff are shining stars. Joe's star is just shining a little brighter right now," commented Richard Doan, FACHE, Chief Executive Officer.

Larry Marmie Visits Barnesville Hospital

Fri, 13 May 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Barnesville Hospital Auxilary Celebrates 70 Years of Service

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EDT

As Barnesville Hospital Auxiliary celebrates 70 years of service, an event is being held to commemorate the milestone, On Sunday, May 1st, the Auxilary is hosting a luncheon and fashion show at the Barnesville Elks Lodge. With doors opening at 12:30 p.m., a luncheon of hot chicken sandwiches, ham, pasta salad, vegetable tray, chips, pretzels, fruit and cake will be served, beginning at 1:00 p.m. Featuring Joe Jeffries as Master of Ceremonies, a fashion show will immediately follow. With the assistance of Barnesville Cheerleaders, wedding fashions from the 1940's to present will be modeled. Many community members do not understand the role of the "Twigs" in the hospital's history. The purpose of the Auxilary has always been to promote and advance the welfare of Barnesville Hospital through fundraising for various projects designed to improve hospital services and facilities. While the hospital had its inception in a private home in 1928, it was never on a paying basis and closed in 1939. In 1940, the citizens of the community recognized the need and began efforts to reopen the hospital. Henry Fiechter, a part-time bookkeeper, and a group of 33 women met and formed the Hospital Branch which, in turn, organized the Twigs. The "Twigs", who are the working units of the Hospital Auxilary, began their work in March 1941. By 1954, the Twigs had grown to over 1,000 women. They were instrumental in obtaining funds for the first addition. The first Twig donation was 25 glasses of jelly from a 4-H Club in 1941. In total, the Twigs raised $36,585.00 for the new building fund. This 1954 building is the portion visible from West Main Street, excluding the Solarium at the southeast corner. Prior to its dedication on February 5, 1954, volunteers from the Twigs did last minute cleaning and dusting. Currently, there are 11 "Twigs" which provide financial support to the hospital. The names & location of Twigs include Acorn (Malaga), Buckeye (Bethesda), Cedar (Barnesville), Cottonwood (Bethesda), Cypress (Barnesville), Laurel (Barnesville), Magnolia (Barnesville), Mistletoe (Barnesville), Philodendron (Beallsville), Poplar (Barnesville), and Sugar Berry (Barnesville). Join the Auxilary for an afternoon of fun with a look back on fashion, while helping to celebrate the Auxilary's 70 years of service. Tickets are available from any Twig member or you can purchase at Barnesville Hospital for $10. For additional information, call Chris Mellinger at (740) 425-5106.

Barnesville Hospital Wins Melvin Creeley Environmental Leadership Award

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Hospitals embrace Earth Day every day by implementing waste reduction programs, recycling initiatives and other activities to preserve the health of the planet for future generations. This year hospitals are celebrating the contributions of the Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, the 2011 recipient of the Ohio Hospital Associationâs (OHA) John Chapman Award, and 14 additional hospital and health systems receiving a Melvin Creeley Environmental Leadership Award. Among its many environmental accomplishments, the Cleveland Clinic has avoided the equivalent of 3,985 passenger cars and planted the equivalent of 8,946 acres of trees. Efforts to reduce potable water use through efficiency measures saved 41,823,585 gallons of water in 2009. That same year, 920 tons of debris was recycled and a single stream paper recycling program was implemented. The John Chapman Award recognizes a hospital or health system that has shown excellence in initiating or supporting pollution prevention programs. The award is named after John Chapman or âJohnny Appleseed,â who planted thousands of apple trees across the Midwest during the 19th century. It will be presented June 13 at the OHA Annual Meeting at the Columbus Hilton in Columbus. OHAâs Environmental Leadership Council selected the Cleveland Clinic to receive the John Chapman Award from the pool of 15 Melvin Creeley Environmental Leadership Award honorees, which are recognized for promoting sound environmental practices through environmental stewardship and exemplifying the best practices for other hospitals to follow. The award is named after the retired president and CEO of East Liverpool City Hospital, Melvin Creeley, who chaired OHAâs Environmental Leadership Council from its inception in 2001 to 2010. Melvin Creeley Environmental Leadership Award hospitals and health systems are: Barnesville Hospital, Barnesville Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland East Liverpool City Hospital, East Liverpool Fairfield Medical Center, Lancaster Firelands Regional Medical Center, Sandusky Fisher Titus Medical Center, Norwalk Humility of Mary Health Partners, Youngstown Lake Health, Concord Marietta Memorial Hospital, Marietta Mercy St. Charles Hospital, Oregon OhioHealth, Columbus Springfield Regional Medical Center, Springfield St. Lukeâs Hospital, Maumee TriHealth, Cincinnati Wright Patterson Medical Center, Dayton As an ENERGY STAR partner, OHA is also working to protect the environment. OHAâs Team Green is collecting electronics such as computers, CDs, radios and other electronic devices to be recycled. OHA recently received the Ohio Alliance for the Environment Award from the Environmental Education Council of Ohio, which honors a business or industry that is dedicated to fostering a climate of cooperation for resolving environmental issues. And in an initiative begun last year, the OHA Energy Program is assisting hospitals become more energy efficient.

Barnesville Hospital - "Champions of Care"

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EDT

A hospital is more than a place where people go to heal; it is a part of the community that fosters health and represents hope. That is the message being conveyed by the 2011 National Hospital Week theme, "Champions of Care," as well as the philosophy of Barnesville Hospital since its' incorporation over 70 years ago. Since May 15, 1940, Barnesville Hospital has not only been providing treatment and comfort to the sick, but has played a central role in maintaining a healthy and optimistic community. While maintaining the same ideals and values of "providing quality care to the community" that were responsible for the hospital's creation in 1940, Barnesville Hospital continues as a source of quality health care to residents of Barnesville and the surrounding areas in western Belmont County, Monroe, Guernsey, Noble, and Harrison counties. A medical staff of more than 56 physicians, representing 18 specialties, and more than 300 personnel provide 24-hour emergency services along with inpatient care, skilled care, and observation services. In addition, Barnesville Hospital offers a full range of diagnostic and therapeutic services, including: cardiac diagnostic testing, cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, mammography, ultrasound, nuclear medicine, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), nutrition and medication counseling, pulmonary function testing, occupational, speech, and physical therapy, electroencephalogram (EEG), electroymyelogram (EMG), DexaScan, Holter cardiac monitoring, ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, and sleep care. Approximately 50,000 inpatient and outpatient visits annually are coordinated through a formal and comprehensive Care Management program. A clinical affiliation with The Ohio State University Medical Center has evolved into a regional network of providers, making referrals through the Ohio State Health Network an enhancement of services and continuity of care. "National Hospital Week, first and foremost, is a celebration of people," Rick Doan, administrator of Barnesville Hospital, said. "We're extremely proud of each member of our staff and we recognize the important role they play in extending a sense of trust to our patients and our communities." Excellent health care starts with excellent people. Staff at Barnesville Hospital continuously display the attributes of CARE

Morristown Pharmacy Staff Attends CE Event

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Mary Beth Mazoch, R.Ph. of Morristown Pharmacy and Homecare, recently attended the 41st Annual Jefferson County Academy of Pharmacy Continuing Education Seminar at Belmont Hills County Club. Also attending were four of her pharmacy technicians, Donna Davenport, Amy Baker, Pam Welch and Cinda Hoover. Pharmacists and now Pharmacy Technicians must obtain annual continuing education to maintain their license and certifications respectively. Those in attendance learned about end-of-life care, new diabetes treatments, a new treatment for community acquired pneumonia, state and federal drug law updates, and preventing the misuse and abuse of prescription medications. Speakers for the Annual Seminar this year were Sue Miller, RN, BSN, CHPN of Valley Hospice, Dr, John Capito, Cindy Morris, PharmD Candidate (WVU), Mr Willam Winsley, M.S., R.Ph. of the Ohio Board of Pharmacy and Amber Vavrock, PharmD. Mary Beth Mazoch is the pharmacist-in-charge at Morristown Pharmacy and Homecare. Each pharmacy technician at Morristown Pharmacy has obtained Technician Certification as required by Ohio Law.

Barnesville Hospital Earns Quality Respiratory Care Recognition in National Program

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST

Barnesville Hospital has earned Quality Respiratory Care Recognition (QRCR) under a national program aimed at helping patients and families make informed decisions about the quality of the respiratory care services available in hospitals. About 700 hospitals or approximately 15% of hospitals in the United States have applied for and received this award. The QRCR program was started by the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) in 2003 to help consumers identify those facilities using qualified respiratory therapists to provide respiratory care. The AARC is a membership organization representing more than 39,000 health professionals involved in respiratory care nationwide. Hospitals earning the QRCR designation ensure patient safety by agreeing to adhere to a strict set of criteria governing their respiratory care services. To qualify for the recognition, Barnesville Hospital provided documentation showing it meets the following conditions: All respiratory therapists employed by the hospital to deliver bedside respiratory care services are either legally recognized by the state as competent to provide respiratory care services or hold the CRT or RRT credential. Respiratory therapists are available 24 hours. Other personnel qualified to perform specific respiratory procedures and the amount of supervision required for personnel to carry out specific procedures must be designated in writing. A doctor of medicine or osteopathy is designated as medical director of respiratory care services. Use a process that periodically compares performance on efficiency and quality metrics with similar departments for the purpose of identifying and achieving best practice. The AARC's QRCR program grew out of growing concerns among health care leaders and the general public regarding the safety and quality of health care services provided to patients. Hospitals that meet QRCR requirements provide a level of respiratory care consistent with national standards and guidelines, and should be commended for their commitment to quality care. A list of QRCR hospitals is maintained at the association's website for consumers, www.YourLungHealth.org. Respiratory therapists are specially trained health care professionals who work under physician's orders to provide a wide range of breathing treatments and other services to people with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis, lung cancer, AIDS, and other lung or lung-related conditions. They are key members of lifesaving response teams charged with handling medical emergencies.

Mental Illness: Facts & Myths

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 00:00:00 EST

Mental illness is a serious medical illness that affects one in four families. No one is to blame. Treatment works, but only half of people living with mental illness receive treatment. Barnesville Hospital will be hosting a 1-hour community event entitled "Mental Illness: Facts & Myths" on Thursday, February 17th from 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. in the hospital’s Classroom. The event will focus on basic mental health signs and symptoms. Presenter for the program is Suzanne Robinson, M.S.W., Director of Programs for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). From its inception in 1979, NAMI has been dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness. NAMI's education provides relevant information and valuable insight. These programs draw on the lived experience of individuals who have learned to live well with mental illness and have been extensively trained to help others, as well as the expertise of mental health professionals and educators. The event is free to the public and no registration is required. For additional information, contact Peggy Douglass at (740) 425-5158.

Barnesville Hospital Offering Monroe County “Safe Sitter” Course

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 00:00:00 EST

Barnesville Hospital will be offering a "Safe Sitter" course for girls and boys age 11 to 13 on Friday, February 18th, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Monroe County District Library. The Safe Sitter program is a medically accurate program that teaches young adolescents how to handle emergencies when caring for younger children. The fee of $30 covers the cost of books and materials. Enrollment is limited to 20 students. Students need to bring a sack lunch and drink. The goal of Safe Sitter, a nationally recognized program, is to reduce the number of avoidable and unintentional deaths among children being cared for by babysitters. The course teaches sitters how to have fun with children, recognize a medical emergency and know the appropriate action to take, how to handle specific ages, injury prevention techniques, safety for the sitter and the children, care of the choking child, preventing problem behavior, and the business of babysitting. During the course, students get hands-on practice in basic lifesaving techniques so they are prepared to act in a crisis. All information is taught by trained Safe Sitter Instructors. To successfully complete the Safe Sitter program, the students have to pass a practical and written test to show that they have mastered the key concepts and have the skills necessary to handle an emergency. For further information or to register your son or daughter, contact Peggy Douglass, (740) 425-5158.

Barnesville Hospital Impacts New Team Member’s Career Choice

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 00:00:00 EST

Health services administration courses at Ohio University Eastern, taught by Barnesville Hospital's Sue Ward, R.N., Director of Corporate Compliance, and Willie Cooper, Chief Financial Officer, and the strong support received from hospital staff were definitely factors in Michael Carpenter's decision to join Barnesville Hospital's "Quality Caring Team" as Environmental Services Supervisor. Health Services Administration became an interest for the Union Local graduate after taking an introductory course where he began to realize the many opportunities available in healthcare. While completing his degree requirements, Michael requested an internship at Barnesville Hospital. It was during this project-based internship that Michael demonstrated his potential to plan, organize, and coordinate resources to meet the needs and demands of the organization. According to David Phillips, Chief Operating Officer, who worked with Michael on his project, "Michael demonstrated a maturity and performance that was atypical for early careerists." Prior to joining the staff at Barnesville Hospital, Michael worked as an independent contractor for the Ohio Hospital Association on a grant-funded project. As a Community Outreach Coordinator, his role was twofold -- to promote community relationships within southeastern Ohio and to increase overall awareness of emergency preparedness. Michael's family has been the biggest influence in his life. Growing up on the family farm in Centerville with two older sisters, Michael enjoyed playing softball, hunting, and still helps his father on the farm. Mike loves the Pittsburgh Pirates, Steelers, and watches with zeal as the Ohio State Buckeyes play college football on Saturdays. Michael's wife, Nichole, is also part of Barnesville Hospital's "Quality Caring Team." They reside in Barnesville with their 2 cats Moby & Bentley.

Respiratory Therapist joins Morristown Pharmacy & Homecare

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 00:00:00 EST

Elise Koski, RRT, RCP recently joined the staff at Morristown Pharmacy and Homecare and will be providing full-time respiratory services to their current and future patients. These services will include oxygen evaluation and setup of delivery systems, Cpap and BiPap setups, and nebulizers. She will also be providing education and instruction to their patients with chronic lung disease and sleep disorders. Elise earned her degree in Respiratory Therapy from West Virginia Northern Community College. Prior to joining MTPHC, Elise gained experience as a Respiratory Therapist at both Barnesville Hospital and Southwest Regional Medical Center in Waynesburg, PA. Elise has 2 children and resides in Moundsville, WV with her husband. Prior to becoming a Respiratory Therapist, Elise demonstrated her care and concern for others when she started her own business, cleaning homes for the elderly and those with special needs. "I'm very excited to be joining Morristown Pharmacy & Homecare and look forward to providing quality care to our patients," states Elise. For more information about services provided by Morristown Pharmacy and Homecare, visit their website at http://www.morristownpharmacy.com or call (740) 782-1230. Their mission is to provide durable medical equipment, prescriptions, respiratory equipment, and medical supplies to the community, thus "Helping You Stay Well At Home."

Barnesville Hospital Patients & Staff Enjoy Caroling

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 00:00:00 EST

Local musician Wes Huntsman and wife Vicki took time out of their busy schedule to provide Christmas carols for patients, their families and staff of Barnesville Hospital. Patients and their families joined in singing along with them.

Barnesville Hospital Offering "Safe Sitter" Course

Wed, 08 Dec 2010 00:00:00 EST

Barnesville Hospital will be offering a "Safe Sitter" course for girls and boys age 11 to 13 on Wednesday, December 29th, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Barnesville First Christian Church New Life Center. The Safe Sitter program is a medically accurate program that teaches young adolescents how to handle emergencies when caring for younger children. The cost is $30 with enrollment limited to 20 students. Students need to bring a sack lunch and drink. The goal of Safe Sitter, a nationally recognized program, is to reduce the number of avoidable and unintentional deaths among children being cared for by babysitters. The course teaches sitters how to have fun with children, recognize a medical emergency and know the appropriate action to take, how to handle specific ages, injury prevention techniques, safety for the sitter and the children, care of the choking child, preventing problem behavior, and the business of babysitting. During the course, students get hands-on practice in basic lifesaving techniques so they are prepared to act in a crisis. All information is taught by trained Safe Sitter Instructors. To successfully complete the Safe Sitter program, the students have to pass a practical and written test to show that they have mastered the key concepts and have the skills necessary to handle an emergency. For further information or to register your son or daughter, contact Peggy Douglass, (740) 425-5158.

Curves of Barnesville & Barnesville Hospital Join Efforts in the Early Identification of Breast Cancer

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 00:00:00 EST

The Barnesville Curves is committed to improving the lives of area women, whether it is through exercise, nutrition, or prevention. Curves has also taken a leadership role in the fight against breast cancer and wanted to support Barnesville Hospital in their goal to obtain funding for digital mammography. It was a team effort by the Barnesville Curves. Curves member, Sharon Doty, made a beautiful pink quilt and members sold raffle tickets. LouAnn Swallie was the winner of the quilt, however all area women were winners as Curves raised $700 designated for digital mammography at Barnesville Hospital. "The Barnesville Curves does a tremendous job educating women regarding the early detection of breast cancer and the importance of good health," said Karen Mihalic, Imaging Operations Manager, Barnesville Hospital. "We are extremely grateful to all the members of Curves for their ongoing support of Barnesville Hospital." Barnesville Hospital is actively pursuing funding through grants and private philanthropy to raise the necessary funds to obtain digital mammography. Thanks to improvements in treatment and early detection, millions of women are surviving breast cancer today. Simple lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol intake can all help women to reduce their risk of breast cancer. "Curves has taken a leadership role in the fight against breast cancer," said Lynda Mayberry Curves of Barnesville Owner. "I am so proud of all of our members. They work hard to exercise and lead a healthy lifestyle, but they also care about other women in the community. Our members volunteered to sell raffle tickets and to spread the word regarding breast cancer prevention. This is a great group of women." The Diagnostic Imaging Department at Barnesville Hospital has been providing mammography services to the community for over 17 years, while following standards of both the American College of Radiology and the federal regulations of the Mammography Quality Standards Act which are surveyed by the Ohio Department of Health. To learn how you can join the effort to bring digital mammography to Barnesville Hospital, please contact Jan Chambers, 740-425-5789 at the Barnesville Hospital Foundation.

Barnesville Hospital Upgrades Laboratory Equipment

Tue, 19 Oct 2010 00:00:00 EDT

Barnesville Hospital's Laboratory, through a negotiated lease agreement, has upgraded to a Vitros 5600, a high-capacity system that integrates clinical chemistry and immunoassay testing on one platform. This new equipment offers a quality, high capacity system providing greater efficiency, lower maintenance, and minimal calibration. "Lori Leary, Laboratory Manager, and her team are to be commended for upgrading the lab equipment and saving the hospital money," said Richard Doan, Barnesville Hospital, CEO. "They traded in two pieces of equipment for one which is an upgrade in technology. Over the next five years we will save $183,168 in service agreements, lease fees and reagent cost." The new lab equipment provides a more advanced level of performance, while creating extra space in the laboratory and streamlining the processes. "The Virtros 5600 is easy to use, optimizes turn around time and improves the department's productivity," said Ms. Leary. "The Department is extremely pleased to be able to offer our patients an improvement in technology and the extra space optimizes the work environment within the department for our employees." The new system helps ensure the quality of the test result, reduces error potential, and provides real-time operator notification and traceability. Barnesville Hospital is pleased to enhance its' laboratory capabilities with the addition of the Vitross 5600 unit. If high-quality services, cost-effective care, and personal attention are important to you, remember Barnesville Hospital when seeking healthcare services. Whether your physician is local or outside the area, you have a right to chose your service provider. All you have to do is "just ask." For additional information regarding Laboratory Services at Barnesville Hospital, please call 425-5133

Barnesville Hospital Expands Diagnostic Imaging Capabilities

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 00:00:00 EDT

Barnesville Hospital recently purchased a Fuji Unity digital radiography unit to better serve the healthcare needs of area residents. The digital radiography unit provides superior speed and image quality, and greater convenience for the patient. "We expect the digital radiography unit to significantly reduce examination time and to improve patient outcomes," said Richard Doan, Chief Executive Officer. "Barnesville Hospital is grateful to the United States Department of Agriculture for providing a grant to assist us to purchase this critical piece of diagnostic imaging equipment." The digital radiography unit offers enhanced picture quality and is located closer to the Emergency Department, reducing the time required to transport patients in emergency situations. Patients are also exposed to less radiation and, because of the technical capabilities of the equipment, physicians can have access to the images within seconds. The benefits from digital radiology are enormous. The referring physician can view the requested image on a desktop personal computer, often with the report, just minutes after the examination was performed. The images are no longer held in a single location; they can be seen simultaneously by physicians who may be located miles away. This provides a significant benefit to patients, allowing their referring physician to have prompt access to their films when needed. Barnesville Hospital is pleased to expand its diagnostic capabilities with the addition of the digital radiography unit. If high-quality services, cost-effective care, and personal attention are important to you, remember Barnesville Hospital when seeking healthcare services. Whether your physician is local or outside the area, you have a right to chose your service provider. All you have to do is "just ask." For additional information regarding Diagnostic Imaging Services at Barnesville Hospital, please call 425-5114.

Barnesville Hospital’s National Run @ Work Day A Success

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 EDT

The National Run @ Work Day, sponsored by Barnesville Hospital, had a total of 87 participants. Local businesses represented included Barnesville Hospital, Riesbecks, Curves, Barnesville Schools, Wesbanco, and Buckeye Steel. Barnesville Shamrocks Junior High and High School Cross Country teams were also participants. Barnesville Hospital had the most employee participation, with a total of 32 employees running or walking throughout the day. Door prize winners were: Beth Brill, Judy Mowery, Allison Healey, Jacob Anderson, Sara McGee, Wesley Lewis, Samantha Burkhart, Hannah Rich, Cheryl Lewis, Amy Wahl, Lauren Stafford, Frances Burkhart, Joyce Castello, Lynda Mayberry, Barb Kirkland, Katlin Grimes, Mary Richards, Bridget DeLaney, Shanna Anderson, Rick Clark, and Anne Paine. Many thanks to the following businesses for their donations to the event: Ohio Hills Health Services, Barnesville Hospital, Rockwell Orchards, Riesbecks, Bob's Pizza and Sub Stop, Rite Aid, Curves, and Corner Fitness. Employers should encourage and support their employees to become healthier by implementing employee wellness programs at their workplaces. A healthy employee is a more efficient worker and is absent less due to illness. Remember, just 30 minutes or running or walking a day can make a substantial difference in a person's health.

New ENT Surgeon Practicing at Barnesville Medical Center

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 00:00:00 EDT

Barnesville Hospital is pleased to announce that Joel R. Link, MD will be providing Otolaryngology to Barnesville and the surrounding communities beginning October 6, 2010. Dr. Link is a specialist in the field of Otolaryngology, which is the medical term for an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) surgeon. "I am pleased to welcome Dr. Link to our community on behalf of our associates, physicians and Board," said Richard Doan, CEO of Barnesville Hospital and President of Belmont Professional Associates. Dr. Link earned his undergraduate degree in biology from Villanova University in 1978. He is a graduate of Oral Roberts University School of Medicine, and he completed his ENT and General Surgery residencies at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, HI from 1983-1987. Dr. Link has been married to wife, Maria, for 29 years. Maria is currently enrolled at the Ave Maria School of Law in Naples, Fl. They have three children, Elenita, 25, and Alex, 23; and Joel, 21. Elenita and Alex are both enrolled at the University of Georgia. Joel is a violinist in his 5th year at the Curtis Institute of Music. All three children play the violin, and Elenita attended Juilliard in New York City for three years. Dr. Link's father-in-law also was an ENT Specialist. "I fell in love with the ENT field after seeing the love and passion my father-in-law had for the field," Dr. Link said. "I am here to provide quality, basic ENT care across the board to the community. I look forward to enjoying this area and spending as much time as possible with my family." Dr. Link will be located in the lower level at Barnesville Medical Center, 100 Hospital Drive behind the hospital. He welcomes new patients and physician referrals. To schedule an appointment, call 740-425-5050.

Barnesville Hospital Expands Diagnostic Capabilities with Nuclear Medicine Imaging System

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 00:00:00 EDT

In a continuing effort to provide accurate diagnostic imaging and quality patient care, Barnesville Hospital has purchased a Siemens Nuclear Medicine imaging system. The new system is ideal for the early detection and staging of cancer, heart disease, and other hard-to-diagnose disorders. "With its unique combination of image quality, patient versatility and exceptional functionality, we expect our new nuclear imaging system to significantly reduce examination time and costs while improving patient outcomes," ÃÂ¢ÃÂÃÂsaid Richard Doan, Chief Executive Officer. "Barnesville Hospital is grateful to the Appalachian Regional Commission for helping to make this purchase possible." The Nuclear Medicine imaging system has high definition digital detectors which offer exceptional imaging performance and expanded clinical capabilities. Barnesville Hospital physicians can order exams which were previously unavailable for area residents. The Nuclear Medicine camera is also capable of Gallium scans to see if cancer has metastasized, and thyroid uptake and scans. Additional exams now available include OctreoScan, Spects, MIBG scan, parathyroid scan, HidaScan, MUGA scan, & whole body bone scan. These new exams can aid in detecting the source of infection from unknown origin, detecting certain types of cancer such as lymphoma, and can also detect and evaluate neuroblastoma in children. The open framework of the Nuclear Medicine imaging system enhances comfort for a variety of patients including pediatric, geriatric, and bariatric patients. It also enables technologists to perform highly accurate organ and tissue-specific studies while accommodating stretchers and wheelchairs. Unlike other imaging technologies like X-ray or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) that provide structural or anatomical information, nuclear medicine detects activity on a molecular level. Patients are injected with a small amount of a targeted radioisotope based on the clinical need. Once injected, the isotope is attracted to a specific organ or region of the body, highlighting the area of concern. Because of this, a nuclear medicine scan can detect diseases before they are progressed enough to be identified by other means. Barnesville Hospital is pleased to expand their diagnostic capabilities with the addition of the Nuclear Medicine imaging system which will offer high-quality services and deliver cost-effective care to their patients. For information about Barnesville Hospital's Nuclear Medicine Services, call (740) 425-5114 or visit www.barnesvillehospital.com. To schedule an appointment, contact Central Scheduling at (740) 425-5123.

Barnesville Hospital Holds Second Prescription Drug Take Back Program

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 00:00:00 EDT

The overwhelming success of Barnesville Hospital's first Prescription Take Back Day has resulted in a second day being scheduled for October 8 from th 8 AM-11AM in the hospital's east parking lot. Area residents are invited to bring unwanted and expired medications to the hospital for safe disposal. Outdated and unused medications pose a danger in the home, and in the community, and when improperly discarded, they contaminate our environment with a dangerous blend of chemicals. To keep our communities safe and to protect our environment, Barnesville Hospital has again partnered with the Jefferson Belmont Regional Solid Waste Authority to hold a community wide unwanted medication collection day. The hospital will accept over-the-counter medications as well as prescription drugs and even pet medicines. To ensure patient confidentiality it is recommended the patient's name on prescription drug labels be crossed out; however if possible leave the name of the medication visible. Because the drugs are incinerated, the hospital cannot accept asthma inhalers or drugs in canisters. The hospital will have a pharmacist present and Barnesville Police Department will supervise the collection in order to accept expired controlled substances. Across the country there are increasing concerns over prescription drug and over-the-counter drugs being found in public water systems. Drugs that are collected at the event are destroyed by officials in an incinerator. Burning the drugs is better for the environment than one of the more common methods of flushing drugs down the drain. "Barnesville Hospital is concerned about our environment and our community. The prescription take back program is our way to help area residents to safely dispose of medications they no longer need," said Joe Jeffries, R.Ph., Pharmacy Director at Barnesville Hospital. "Over 36,139 units of drugs and over 450 types of drugs were collected and disposed of safely during our last event. We hope to collect an even greater volume now that more people are aware of the program." This event is open to the public, regardless of where the medications were purchased. However, medications cannot be accepted from businesses such as nursing homes and doctor's offices. In addition, sharps will not be accepted. The pharmaceutical take back program is a great opportunity for area residents to clean out their medicine cabinets, safeguard their home, and preserve our environment for future generations. Please call Barnesville Hospital's pharmacy at 740-425-5108 with any questions regarding this event.

Barnesville Hospital Hosts Women's Health Day on September 29, 2010

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 00:00:00 EDT

On Wednesday, September 29, 2010, an estimated 40,000 to 50,000 women of all ages will participate in the Ninth Annual National Womenâs Health & Fitness Day. This event is always held the last Wednesday in September as part of National Women's Health & Fitness Week. Barnesville Hospital will be sponsoring a Women's Health Day on Wednesday, September 29th. Beginning at 8:00 a.m., participants will join thousands of other women across the country as they learn their way to better health. Peggy Douglass, Director of Education & Outreach at Barnesville Hospital says, "We want to demonstrate the importance of women's health issues. A day full of activities is planned where women of all ages will have a chance to participate in a variety of health screenings and informational sessions." Activities planned include: 8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Health Screenings < Blood Pressure < Glucose < Cholesterol < Fitness Evaluation < Pulmonary Function Screening < DexaScan (Screening for Osteoporosis) < Screening for Peripheral Vascular Disease 10:00 a.m. "New Women's Screening Guidelines & Controversies" Shaun Roe, D.O. 10:45 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. Viewing of Displays 11:45 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Health Screenings < Blood Pressure < Glucose < Cholesterol < Fitness Evaluation < Pulmonary Function Screening < DexaScan (Screening for Osteoporosis) < Screening for Peripheral Vascular Disease According to Mrs. Douglass, enhancements are being made to this yearâs event. Beginning at 10:00 a.m., Shaun Roe, D.O. will discuss "New Women's Screening Guidelines & Controversies." Dr. Roe will be joining Dr. Joseph Durkalski and the staff at Morristown Family Medicine in July 2011. In addition to the health screenings listed, additional laboratory-performed tests will be available for a nominal fee as part of the day's activities. Laboratory tests indicate important information about bodily function. Tests may help determine what diseases you may have. Changes in various blood components and body chemistry may signal approaching disease so that preventive steps may be taken. For a cost of $10/each, participants can have a Basic Metabolic Profile (BMP) or Lipid Profile. The BMP is a blood test that measures your glucose level, electrolyte & fluid balance, and kidney function. The Lipid Profile measures fats and fatty substances used as a source of energy in your body. Lipids include cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, and LDL. This testing is designed for adults 18 and older. All individuals requesting the testing must fast at least 12 hours prior to the time blood is drawn. No food or drink except water should be consumed; however, scheduled medications should be taken. Also, please do not smoke the morning of the screening. According to Rick Doan, CEO, "The goal of this event is to encourage women to take control of their health by learning the facts they need to make smart health choices." With the exception of laboratory-performed tests, all activities are free and women of all ages are encouraged to participate. To minimize time spent, an appointment is required for the health screenings. To schedule an appointment or for further information, call (740) 425-5158. Barnesville Hospital is the only 24-hour critical access hospital serving Monroe county, western Belmont county, and parts of Noble, Harrison, and Guernsey county. For more information on Barnesville Hospital and the services provided, visit the hospitalâs website at www.barnesvillehospital.com or call Peggy Douglass, M.S., R.N.C., Director of Education & Outreach at (740) 425-5158.

Barnesville Hospital Prescription Drug Take Back Program a Success

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 00:00:00 EDT

Barnesville Hospital's first ever Prescription Take Back Day in August was a huge success. Over 36,139 units of drugs and over 450 types of drugs were collected and disposed of safely. Area residents supported this event by dropping off potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription and over the counter medications. "We are thrilled to have been able to offer this program," said Joseph Jeffries, Pharmacy Director, Barnesville Hospital. "The take back program helped protect our environment by keeping medications out of the water supply and helped to protect our community by keeping drugs off of the street. We look forward to sponsoring our second Prescription Take Back Program on October 8th." This program addressed vital public safety and public health issues. Many Americans are not aware that medicines that sit in home cabinets are highly susceptible to theft, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are increasing at alarming rates, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, many Americans do not know how to properly dispose of their unused medicine, often flushing them down the toilet or throwing them away - both potential safety and health hazards. "This event would not have been possible without the support of the Barnesville Police Department and the three pharmaceutical students who volunteered to make this program a success," said Anne Smith, Environmental Services and Green Team Chairperson, Barnesville Hospital. "We are also extremely grateful to the Jefferson-Belmont Regional Solid Waste Authority for their grant which made this event possible." The pharmacy students who volunteered to assist with Barnesville Hospital's Pharmaceutical Take Back were Kirsten Yoho (Ohio Northern University), Ashley Shumaker (Ohio State University), and TJ Tucker (Ohio Northern University). Prescription drug abuse is the Nation's fastest-growing drug problem and prescription take-back events are an indispensable tool for reducing the threat these drugs pose to public health through contaminating the water supply and the threat prescription drug abuse and unintentional drug poisoning. Barnesville Hospital is planning another prescription Take Back Event for Friday, October 8th from 8:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. Please call Barnesville Hospital Pharmacy 425-5108 for additional information.

Barnesville Hospital and East Ohio Regional Hospital Collaborate to Provide Safety & Rescue

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 00:00:00 EDT

While most people don't think of Ferris wheels, cotton candy, animals, hospitals, and helicopters in the same setting, staff at both Barnesville Hospital and East Ohio Regional Hospital recognize the link and feel they have a commitment to not only "improving health in Belmont County," but also educating the public on potential safety hazards, as well as providing education and support to local emergency responders. Home may be where the heart is, but it's also where the safety risks lurk. In August 1939, the cover story in Popular Mechanic was "There's No Place Like Home -- for Accidents." Statistics cited for that time are staggering -- 32,500 persons fatally injured right at home, while one in every twenty-seven persons suffered non-fatal injuries. In 2010, accidents at home continue to rank among the leading causes of injury and death in the United States. According to the Home Safety Council, a nonprofit safety education and resource group, every year in this country, home accidents result in more than 20,000 deaths while an additional 21 million people are treated for injuries. Recognizing the importance of home safety, a series of "Safety Summits" will be held at the Belmont County Fair on Wednesday, September 8th, Friday, September 10th, and Saturday, September 11th. The sessions, each lasting approximately 20-30 minutes, will be held in the Wise Horticultural & Domestic Arts Building and are free to the public. Topics will include medication safety, canning safety, ATV safety, AED, first aid, disaster preparedness, mower safety, chainsaw safety, sun safety, home & outdoor safety, bike safety, teen & driver safety, and grain bin safety. In addition to valuable information, there will be door prize drawings daily. For specific presentation times, please visit the Belmont County Fair website at http://belmontcountyagriculturalsociety.samsbiz.com/ or the Belmont County Fair page on Facebook. Are you taking multiple medications? On Thursday, September 9th, Jim Tighe, a Registered Pharmacist at the Health Plan of the Upper Ohio Valley, will be providing a "Medication Brown Bag." Bring your medications to the fair for a free Pharmacist consultation. Agriculture is among the most hazardous occupations. It is, perhaps, the only industry where eight-year-olds and eighty-year-olds work in the same profession, side by side, operating large pieces of equipment. Farm accidents claim many lives each year throughout our country and can be a tremendous challenge to emergency responders for many reasons. The accident may not be discovered and reported immediately, and the farm may be remotely located and have poor access for emergency services. The resulting delayed response times may mean a poor victim outcome. Farm machinery incidents make up a large part of the farm-related injuries. Farm machinery's construction differs from that of highway vehicles from which we are accustomed to extricating victims. Farm equipment is heavier and has a different center of gravity; the metal used in its construction may be stronger than that in our rescue tools. Responders must be trained in specific rescue procedures designed for these types of incidences. On Thursday, September 9th, from 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., MedFlight's Mobile Education Unit with patient simulator will be onsite to provide the opportunity for emergency rescuers to practice resuscitation techniques. From 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Barnesville Hospital, East Ohio Regional Hospital, The Ohio Fire Academy, and MedFlight will be sponsoring an EMS Continuing Education event titled "Farm Trauma: Unique Problems for EMS." Content will include basic trauma theory, farm equipment extrication demonstration, and EMS squad practice extrications. Robert Cross, M.D., local surgeon, will provide a lecture on follow-up trauma care. If you have questions or need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact Peggy Douglass, M.S., R.N.C., Barnesville Hospital's Director of Education & Outreach at (740) 425-5158 or Cara Gazdik,M.S.N.,R.N., CEN, East Ohio Regional Hospital's Director of Education at (740) 633-6995.

Join Barnesville Hospital and the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) for the 5th Annual National

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EDT

Encourage your co-workers to get 30-minutes of exercise a day The Barnesville Hospital Employee Wellness Program has partnered with the largest grassroots running organization in the country, the Road Runners Club of America, to promote the 5th Annual National Run @ Work Day on September 17, 2010. Through this partnership, our organizations are working together to promote physical activity and healthy living within our community and around the country. The goal of Run @ Work Day is to raise awareness about the importance of daily physical activity for adults. Company-based wellness programs, human resources departments, schools, running clubs, fitness centers, and individuals nationwide are encouraged to plan fun runs and walks with their employers. National Run @ Work Day events are community based events that promote and provide the opportunity for individuals to incorporate at least 30-minutes of exercise into their daily routine either before work, during lunch, or immediately following work. Incorporating exercise into one's daily routine can markedly improve one's overall physical health. "Promoting a healthy lifestyle by running or walking daily is one way the Barnesville Hospital Employee Wellness Program promotes fitness among their employees," remarked Raquel McGee, Employee Wellness Program Chairperson. "We encourage area employers and employees to participate in this local Run @ Work Day event as part of the national movement to get people to incorporate exercise into their daily routines." In support of this day Barnesville Hospital is coordinating a "Community Business Challenge" on Friday, September 17, 2010. All businesses are to encourage their employees to participate by walking or running at the Barnesville Memorial Park from 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. or at the Barnesville High School track from 3:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. There will be a place to register your name and which local business you are representing. Each walker/runner will receive a ticket to be entered into a door prize drawing at the end of the event. The business with the most employees attending will be recognized in a wrap up article in the local papers. Participation in the 5th Annual Run @ Work Day is an important step in raising awareness about the importance of daily physical activity. If adults can lead by example, if companies can encourage healthy living, then together we can combat the national inactivity crisis gripping our nation and our children. For more information about local Run @ Work Day events in Barnesville, contact Raquel McGee, Barnesville Hospital Employee Wellness Program Chairperson at 740-425-5187 or via email at rmcgee@barnesvillehospital.com. The Mission statement for the Barnesville Hospital Employee Wellness Program is to improve the health and fitness levels of our employees and the community. The Barnesville Hospital Employee Wellness Program holds weight loss and pedometer challenges throughout the year for employees, family, and friends. They also have blood pressure checks, blood glucose and cholesterol screenings, body composition analysis, and other fitness tests throughout the year. The committee organizes games and challenges to enable employees to learn about health and wellness while having fun and earning awards.

Barnesville Hospital Focuses on Safety & Rescue at Monroe County Fair

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EDT

While most people don't think of ferris wheels, cotton candy, animals, hospitals, and helicopters in the same setting, staff at Barnesville Hospital recognize the link and feel they have a commitment to not only "improving the community's health," but also educating the public on potential safety hazards, as well as providing education and support to local emergency responders. Home may be where the heart is, but it's also where the safety risks lurk. In August 1939, the cover story in Popular Mechanic was "There's No Place Like Home -- for Accidents." Statistics cited for that time are staggering -- 32,500 persons fatally injured right at home, while one in every twenty-seven persons suffered non-fatal injuries. In 2010, accidents at home continue to rank among the leading causes of injury and death in the United States. According to the Home Safety Council, a nonprofit safety education and resource group, every year in this country, home accidents result in more than 20,000 deaths while an additional 21 million people are treated for injuries. Recognizing the importance of home safety, Barnesville Hospital will be hosting a series of "Safety Summits" at the Monroe County Fair on Tuesday, August 24, 2010. The sessions will be located in a tent behind the Grandstand and free to the public. Beginning at 2:00 p.m., each presentation will last approximately 20-30 minutes. Topics to be included: 2:00 p.m. - Medication Safety; 2:30 p.m. - Canning Safety; 3:00 p.m. - ATV Safety; 3:30 p.m. - AED (automatic external defibrillator); 4:00 p.m. - First Aid; 4:30 p.m. - Disaster Preparedness; 5:00 p.m. - Mower Safety; and 5:30 p.m. - Chainsaw Safety. In addition to valuable information, there will be a door prize drawing at the end of the sessions. Agriculture is among the most hazardous occupations. It is, perhaps, the only industry where eight-year-olds and eighty-year-olds work in the same profession, side by side, operating large pieces of equipment. Farm accidents claim many lives each year throughout our country and can be a tremendous challenge to emergency responders for many reasons. The accident may not be discovered and reported immediately, and the farm may be remotely located and have poor access for emergency services. The resulting delayed response times may mean a poor victim outcome. Farm machinery incidents make up a large part of the farm-related injuries. Farm machinery's construction differs from that of highway vehicles from which we are accustomed to extricating victims. Farm equipment is heavier and has a different center of gravity; the metal used in its construction may be stronger than that in our rescue tools. Responders must be trained in specific rescue procedures designed for these types of incidences. On Thursday, August 26th from 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Barnesville Hospital and MedFlight will be sponsoring an EMS CE event titled "Farm Trauma: Unique Problems for EMS." Content will include basic trauma theory, farm equipment extrication demonstration, EMS squad practice extrications, and follow-up trauma care. If you have questions or need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact Peggy Douglass, M.S., R.N.C., Director of Education & Outreach at (740) 425-5158 or pdouglass@barnesvillehospital.com.

Barnesville Hospital Offering A "Safe Sitter" Course

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EDT

Barnesville Hospital will be offering a "Safe Sitter" course for girls and boys age 11 to 13 on Monday, August 16th, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Belmont United Methodist Church. The Safe Sitter program is a medically accurate program that teaches young adolescents how to handle emergencies when caring for younger children. The cost is $30 with enrollment limited to 20 students. Students need to bring a sack lunch and drink. The goal of Safe Sitter, a nationally recognized program, is to reduce the number of avoidable and unintentional deaths among children being cared for by babysitters. The course teaches sitters how to have fun with children, recognize a medical emergency and know the appropriate action to take, how to handle specific ages, injury prevention techniques, safety for the sitter and the children, care of the choking child, preventing problem behavior, and the business of babysitting. During the course, students get hands-on practice in basic lifesaving techniques so they are prepared to act in a crisis. All information is taught by trained Safe Sitter Instructors. To successfully complete the Safe Sitter program, the students have to pass a practical and written test to show that they have mastered the key concepts and have the skills necessary to handle an emergency. For further information or to register your son or daughter, contact Peggy Douglass, (740) 425-5158.

Doan Ford Sponsor Again for Barnesville Hospital Scramble

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EDT

For the eighth year in a row, Doan Ford will be sponsoring the hole in one prize for the Barnesville Hospital Auxiliary Golf Scramble. This year, golfers will drive away in a 2011 Ford Fusion if they ace the Par 3 hole # 2 at Belmont Hills Country Club. The 8th Annual Barnesville Hospital Auxiliary Golf Scramble will be held Monday, August 9th, 2010 at Belmont Hills Country Club. Lunch will begin at 11:00 a.m. with a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. The entry fee for the event is $120, which includes lunch, golf, refreshments on the course, and dinner afterwards. Also included in the entry fee will be mulligans, putting contest and skins game. This golf scramble is held each year to serve as a community outreach event for the hospital and also serve as a fund raiser for the Auxiliary organization. The Barnesville Hospital Auxiliary is instrumental in the purchase of medical equipment used in direct patient care at the hospital. For more information or to be part of this event, contact Jeff Britton at 425-5144, Joe Jeffries at 425-5108 or Dave Phillips at 425-5109. Additional information can also be obtained by visiting the hospital website at www.barnesvillehospital.com.

Barnesville Hospital to Hold Free Collection and Disposal of Unwanted Medications

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EDT

Outdated and unused medications pose a danger in the home, and in the community, and when improperly discarded, they contaminate our environment with a dangerous blend of chemicals. To keep our communities safe and to protect our environment, Barnesville Hospital has partnered with the Belmont Jefferson Waste Authority to hold our community's first-ever unwanted medication collection. The pharmaceutical take back program will be held on August 13, 2010 from 8 AM to 11 AM in the hospital's East Parking Lot. Over the years people accumulate drugs which are expired or no longer needed. Keeping unwanted medication in your home creates a safety hazard as America's biggest drug problem isn't on the streets it is in our medicine cabinets. Prescription medication abuse is on the rise. Teens who abuse prescription drugs often get them from the homes of friends and family. The only disposal options used to be to flush medications down the drain or throw them in the trash. However, neither of these methods is wise or safe. Research has discovered disturbing facts about pharmaceuticals in our environment. Flushed drugs are much more persistent than anyone realized. Antibiotics, antidepressants, and hormone medications are now found in waterways nationwide because they slip through septic systems and sewage plants untreated. "Barnesville Hospital urges you to store prescription drugs in secure locations and to dispose of them properly," said Joe Jeffries, R.Ph., Pharmacy Director at Barnesville Hospital. "However, it is easy to find you have unwanted medications in your home. Our pharmaceutical take back program is Barnesville Hospital's way to help you safely dispose of those medications you no longer need." The hospital will accept over-the-counter medications as well as prescription drugs and even pet medicines. To ensure patient confidentiality it is recommended the patient's name on prescription drug labels be crossed out; however if possible leave the name of the medication visible. Because the drugs are incinerated, the hospital cannot accept asthma inhalers or drugs in canisters. The hospital will have a pharmacist present and Barnesville Police Department will supervise the collection in order to accept expired controlled substances. This event is open to the public, regardless of where the medications were purchased. However, medications cannot be accepted from businesses such as nursing homes and doctor's offices. In addition, sharps will not be accepted. The pharmaceutical take back program is a great opportunity for area residents to clean out their medicine cabinets, safeguard their home, and preserve our environment for future generations. Please call Barnesville Hospital's pharmacy at 740-425-5108 with any questions regarding this event.

Local Native to Join Barnesville Hospital's Medical Staff

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EDT

As a child growing up in the Ohio Valley, among its multi-cultural traditions, strong family ties and blue-collar work ethic, sometimes you wonder what the rest of this World has to offer? What am I missing? What is life in the city like? Where will life in the Ohio Valley take me? But as we get older, maybe move away, start families, and become more educated about the "World", we begin to realize how lucky and fortunate we really were to grow up in the Ohio Valley. Raised in Salesville, Ohio, in Eastern Guernsey County, it was during his childhood that Dr. Shaun Roe began to think of what he wanted to be when he grew up and where life may take him. "I always had an interest in medicine since I was a kid and the thought of being a doctor was always in the back of my mind," states Roe. "Once I was in college it was then that I realized that I really wanted to become a Physician and serve the community I grew up in." Dr. Roe is the son of Mark and Brenda Roe and the grandson of Whitey and Linda Starr and Junior and Shirley Roe. Shaun attended Buckeye Trail High School where he played football and baseball. He then continued his secondary education at Kent State University and graduated in 2004 with a Bachelors of Science Degree in Biology. Then in June 2008, Dr. Roe received his Medical Degree from the Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine. Currently Dr. Roe is completing his third year of Family Practice Residency at Wheeling Hospital as a Chief Resident. As many physicians would agree, becoming one from start to finish is no easy task and Dr. Roe cites his wife, Trisha, as being a big contributor towards his overall success. "She is responsible as much as I am for me becoming a doctor," states Roe. "We have moved about five times during my years of schooling and Trisha has always been there and very supportive of me." Dr. Roe first met his "future wife" during the 6th grade but it wasn't until they reached high school that Shaun began dating Trisha. "She was the only girl I could convince to take to Homecoming," jokes Dr. Roe. Shaun and Trisha continued to date through high school and college subsequently getting married in 2005. Dr. Roe will be joining the Medical staff at Barnesville Hospital in July 2011 and will be providing family medicine services in Morristown and the surrounding communities for the retiring Dr. Michael Cotterman. Dr. Roe is Board-Eligible with the American Academy of Osteopathic Family Physicians and is also affiliated with the American Academy of Family Physicians, American Osteopathic Association, the Ohio Osteopathic Association and the American College of Physicians. Dr. Roe and his wife have two sons, two year old Brady and newborn Liam. Shaun enjoys golfing, cooking, traveling, hiking and most-importantly, spending time with his family. "I am really excited and blessed to have the opportunity to return home and serve the area where I grew up," adds Dr. Roe. Dr. Roe will be located at Morristown Family Medicine beginning in July 2011 and can be reached at 740-782-1031.

Barnesville Hospital Offering "Safe Sitter" Course

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 EDT

Barnesville Hospital will be offering a "Safe Sitter" course for girls and boys age 11 to 13 on Thursday, July 29th, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Barnesville First Christian Church Fellowship Hall and Tuesday, August 3rd, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Monroe County District Library. The Safe Sitter program is a medically accurate program that teaches young adolescents how to handle emergencies when caring for younger children. The cost is $30 with enrollment limited to 20 students. Students need to bring a sack lunch and drink. The goal of Safe Sitter, a nationally recognized program, is to reduce the number of avoidable and unintentional deaths among children being cared for by babysitters. The course teaches sitters how to have fun with children, recognize a medical emergency and know the appropriate action to take, how to handle specific ages, injury prevention techniques, safety for the sitter and the children, care of the choking child, preventing problem behavior, and the business of babysitting. During the course, students get hands-on practice in basic lifesaving techniques so they are prepared to act in a crisis. All information is taught by trained Safe Sitter Instructors. To successfully complete the Safe Sitter program, the students have to pass a practical and written test to show that they have mastered the key concepts and have the skills necessary to handle an emergency. For further information or to register your son or daughter, contact Peggy Douglass, (740) 425-5158.

Officers and Contributors of the Barnesville Hospital Auxiliary Announced

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 EDT

The Barnesville Hospital Auxiliary installed new officers for 2010-2011 at its May meeting. Officers include Julie McCort & Carol Crooks, Co-Presidents; Chris Mellinger, Vice-President; Belva Tychonski & Norma Cunningham, Co-Treasurers; Lynn Atkinson, Secretary; and Verna Kaiser, Corresponding Secretary. 1-year Directors are Bonnie Lewis, Linda Phillips, & Cindy Ward. 2-year Directors are Cindy Ferguson, Wanema Hagan, & Bernice Rowley, while 3-year Directors are Ruth Murphy, Rosemary Jones, & Tammy Roberts. Twig contributions for the 2009-2010 year were as follows: Acorn: 9 members, magazines donated Buckeye: 15 members, $671.50 cash; helped with bake sales; Dorothy Morris crocheted tea towels for gift shop Cedar: 9 members, $150 cash; food and money donated to the hospital, $115; 407 hours worked in the gift shop Cottonwood: 6 members, bake sale items, $88.60; Christmas favors for patients, $25; Martha Thompson - 223 Red Cross hours, Ladonna Moore - 166 Red Cross hours Cypress: 8 members, $100 cash; bake sale items, supported book sale Laurel: 6 members, $100 cash; donated 6 plates carrot cake, 2 plates banana chocolate muffins,1 pecan pie, 2 pumpkin pies, 4 raisin pies, 4 custard pies, 1 cake, 5 plates of fudge, 6 plates of brownies, monetary donation to bake sales; volunteer hours- 438 hours Magnolia: 8 members, $154 cash; $20 bake sale contribution and muffins, brownies, and cookies Mistletoe: 11 members, $150 cash and donated cash to bake sales; volunteer hours in Gift Shop - Rosemary Jones, 66 hours; Frances McCort, 142 hours Red Cross and Meals on Wheels; Nancy Murphy, 20 hours, delivering Meals Philodendron: 7 members, purchased $50 worth of items for Dietary Department Poplar: 12 members, $250 cash; worked and donated items for bake sales; volunteer hours - Meals on Wheels, Information Desk, and Gift Shop; supported book sales; sold pastry dough; made holiday tray favors; made desserts for and worked at the annual Golf Scramble; made time to attend meetings and serve on the Hospital Auxiliary Board Sugarberry: 11 members, $500 cash; donated to bake sales; donated microwave to Dietary Everyone's continued support is appreciated. For more information about joining an existing Twig, forming a new Twig, or becoming a leaf member, contact Ruth Anderson (425-5113) or Peggy Douglass (425-5158).

Barnesville Hospital Honors Volunteers

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 00:00:00 EDT

In conjunction with National Volunteer Week, Barnesville Hospital recognized its volunteers at the annual Volunteer Banquet held Thursday, April 20, 2010, at Annie K’s Restaurant in Barnesville. Providing the invocation and benediction was volunteer board member Ken Phillips. Entertainment was provided by David Crum. A total of 145 volunteers gave more than 8,000 hours of service and Meals on Wheels drivers delivered 6,900 meals in 2009. The volunteers are a special and much appreciated part of the Barnesville Hospital Quality Caring Team, providing support in the areas of Diagnostic Imaging, Rehabilitation Services, Gift Shop, Information Desk, Dietary, delivering meals, red cross, candy stripers, and surgical waiting area. Teen volunteers receiving awards for 100 hours of service were Kiran Kaur, Ashley Kindelberger, Tiffany Hayes, and Kayla Stewart and an award for 500 hours of service went to Taylor Christman. Candy striper patches were earned by Samantha Ankrom, Raquel Bahmer, Sydney Bruce, Marissa Burga, Justina Campbell, Lane Hanlon, Taylor McCort, Brandy Saffell, and Emily Willis. Adult volunteers receiving awards for 500 hours of service were Patty Bowyer, Sue Callow, Donna Eagon, Ruth Frye, Irene Monte de Ramos, and Wilma Truax. Providing 1,000 hours of service was Ruth Paine, while Barbara McCort and Virginia Waggle provided 3,000 hours. Ladonna Moore provided 5,000 hours of service. Wilbur Stanley was recognized for 400 hours of service in his first year as a hospital volunteer.

Local Economy Affects Barnesville Hospital

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 00:00:00 EDT

Residents of Barnesville and the surrounding areas in western Belmont County, Monroe, Guernsey, Noble, and Harrison counties who have lost their jobs and health insurance coverage prompted record volumes for free care provided by Barnesville Hospital. Free and subsidized care is the major portion of the Community Benefit provided by the hospital in 2009. That included $1.2 million in patient care services provided free or with the patient offered a discount, according to Rick Doan, Chief Executive Officer. That is an increase of about $331,000 from the $900,000 provided in 2008. The level in 2007 stood at $464,000. Free care and discounted charges combine for "charity care" and in 2009 it set a record, up nearly 57 percent over the past year. "Charity care is the largest single component of what we term our Community Benefit total, a figure that is calculated every year to quantify our financial impact on the community we serve," according to Mr. Doan. Federal poverty guidelines determine how much of a discount is offered, based on the number of people living in the household and their total income. Barnesville Hospital patients are eligible for a discount if their income is less than 250 percent of the poverty guideline. Discounts increase as the income goes down. Dottie Minnich, Patient Financial Counselor, counsels patients regarding free and discounted care, payment options, and other outside assistance. Doan said Barnesville Hospital subsidizes the cost of caring for patients covered by Medicaid, the government insurance program for low income people. He said Medicaid pays the hospital less than it costs to provide that care. "The government pays us 56 cents for every dollar of cost for inpatient care, and only 54 cents for every dollar of cost for outpatient care," Doan said. That meant the hospital lost $1 million in 2009 from the Medicaid program. Barnesville Hospital also provided outreach programs to over 1,000 people in 2009. This includes health screenings, educational programs, mentoring students, and helping train future healthcare professionals. "Our Community Benefit for 2009 adds up to over $3.725 million dollars," Doan said. "If not for the hospital, these patient care services, low income subsidies, and outreach programs would have fallen to the government for funding, meaning the taxpayer, or they would not have been provided at all." Another huge financial impact on the hospital is the charges that remain unpaid by those who are working, but don't have insurance, have high co-pays and deductibles, or who refuse to pay. Self pay patients receive a packet of information at the time of each patient encounter, outlining payment options. In 2009, bad debt surpassed $1.5 million, Doan said. "If you include our Medicaid losses and Bad Debt, along with our Community Benefit amount, the total reaches a remarkable $4.0 million.

Barnesville Hospital Mammography Services Receive MQSA Accreditation

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 00:00:00 EDT

Barnesville Hospital to Host 8th Annual Scramble

Mon, 17 May 2010 00:00:00 EDT

The 8th Annual Barnesville Hospital Auxiliary Golf Scramble will be held Monday, August 9th, 2010 at Belmont Hills Country Club. Lunch will begin at 11:00 a.m. with a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. The entry fee for the event is $120, which includes lunch, golf, refreshments on the course, and dinner afterward. Also included in the entry fee will be mulligans, putting contest and skins game. This golf scramble is held each year to serve as a community outreach event for the hospital and also serve as a fundraiser for the Auxiliary organization. The Barnesville Hospital Auxiliary is instrumental in the purchase of medical equipment for the hospital used in direct patient care. For more information or to be part of this event contact Jeff Britton at 425-5144, Joe Jeffries at 425-5108 or Dave Phillips at 425-5109.

Barnesville Hospital Employees and their friends and family raise money for 3C's Cancer Group, Inc.

Fri, 14 May 2010 00:00:00 EDT

The Barnesville Hospital Employee Wellness Program recently conducted a "2010: Lose to Give" Weight Loss Challenge that began on February 9, 2010 and ran for ten weeks until April 20, 2010. A total of 81 employees and their friends and family members participated in this challenge. Each team consisted of three members with a total of 27 teams participating. The participants of this competition lost a total of 558.6 pounds! This is an average of 6.9 pounds per person. The overall winning team was "The Houston Astros" who lost a total of 52.0 pounds and whose members were Jeannie Stewart, Christina Huck, and Barb Woods. The team that placed first in overall percentage lost was "The Minnesota Twins" losing 7.42% of their total weight. Members of this team were Connie Flood, Stormy Wilson, and Nancy Smith. The top loser in weight for the competition was Christina Huck losing 26.8 pounds, and the top loser in percentage was Bridget DeLaney losing 13.72% of her total weight. An awards ceremony was held at Barnesville Hospital on Monday, April 26, 2010. A total of $810.00 in prize money was distributed between the top teams and top individual losers. Thank you to local sponsors for their donations to this challenge: Curves; Corner Fitness; Kari McGee, LMT; Wendy's; Riesbecks; Sam's Club; Barnesville Veterinary Services; Ohio Hills Health Services, and Washington Wild Things. Congratulations to all the participants on a job well done! The participants of this challenge acquired sponsors who agreed to pay $1.00 per pound lost with money raised going to the Three C's Cancer Group, Inc. of Belmont County. The 81 participants of this challenge raised a total of $2,663.00! This money was presented to the 3C's at their annual walk on May 1, 2010. Thank you to all the sponsors that donated to this great cause! As a follow up to the "2010: Lose to Give" Weight Loss Challenge, each participant is invited to participate in a maintenance program and to return to weigh in monthly. The next weigh in will be on Tuesday, May 25, 2010. If at that time they have maintained their post challenge weight or have continued to lose more weight since April 20, 2010, they will receive chances to win more rewards from the Barnesville Hospital Employee Wellness Program. This maintenance program is designed to encourage all participants to keep off the weight lost during the last challenge and to maintain their healthy living lifestyle. As always, the goal of the Employee Wellness Program is to improve the health and fitness levels of our employees and our community.