The Cardinal » Healthy & Fit

Northwest Community Hospital NCH Presents Free Women’s Health Programs

Cardinal News — Wed, 22 May 2013 11:16:59 +0000

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. (May 17, 2013) – All women are invited to Northwest Community Healthcare’s (NCH) “To Your Health” events throughout the month of June at Cooper’s Hawk Winery in Arlington Heights. Gather your girlfriends and join NCH for unique experiences that blend together wine tastings and fun with women’s health education and informative physician presentations.

The first free event is scheduled at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 5. The program includes a presentation by NCH’s licensed and board-certified genetic counselor, Avis Gibons, MS, CGC, “Are you at risk for breast cancer?” A topic in the news has been Angelina Jolie’s decision for breast removal surgery based on the genetic testing that put her at high risk for developing breast cancer. You will learn what is involved in this type of genetic testing. Another presentation “Should you get a mammogram every year?” is presented by NCH’s Dr. Allan Malmed, Radiologist. He will clarify the issue of how often women should have mammograms and when they should start. He will also announce new breast cancer screening technology available at NCH.

On Wednesday, June 12, Dr. Randall Kahan will answer questions on bladder health during his presentation “Do bladder problems rule your life?” Beginning at 5:30 p.m., Dr. Kahan will discuss how minimally invasive treatment can help overcome bladder issues.

The third and final “To Your Health” event is scheduled at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 19. Dr. Dawn Sadowski will discuss minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, including laparoscopic and daVinci robotic surgery during her presentation “What are my options for gyne surgery?”

Community education events, such as “To Your Health,” are just one component of NCH’s comprehensive women’s health and wellness program that features three convenient locations for your annual mammogram, advanced diagnostic technologies, state-of-the-art treatment options, and leading experts in gynecological and breast care health.

To sign up for this free event and to learn more about women’s services at NCH, call HealthConnection at 847.618.4YOU (4968) or visit nch.org/toyourhealth.

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Northwest Community Hospital Medical Group Adds Two Allergists to Staff

Cardinal News — Thu, 16 May 2013 00:08:55 +0000

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. (May 15, 2013) – Northwest Community Healthcare’s (NCH) Medical Group is expanding its network of expert doctors as it welcomes allergists Toral Anil Kamdar, MD, and Sarah Peterson, MD. to the Rand Road, Arlington Heights facility, and the Busch Parkway, Buffalo Grove facility, respectively.

Toral Anil Kamdar, M.D.

Dr. Kamdar is board-certified in internal medicine and allergy/immunology. She will treat patients at the NCH Medical Group office at 1051 W. Rand Road in Arlington Heights. Dr. Kamdar earned her Doctor of Medicine degree in 2007 from Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston. Her Internal Medicine internship and residency were performed at McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University in Chicago. Her Fellowship in Allergy and Immunology was also completed at McGaw Medical Center.

Sarah C. Peterson, M.D.

Dr. Peterson is board-certified in internal medicine and will treat patients at the NCH Medical Group office at 1450 Busch Parkway in Buffalo Grove beginning in July. Dr. Peterson earned her Doctor of Medicine degree in 2007 from the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry in New York. She also performed her internship, residency, and Fellowship in Allergy and Immunology at McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University in Chicago.

Patients can schedule appointments with the physicians online at www.nchmedicalgroup.com or by calling Dr. Kamdar’s office at 847.410.6435 and Dr. Peterson’s at 847.725.8453.

In addition to internal medicine and family practice physicians, other physician specialties of the NCH Medical Group include dermatology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, neurology and rheumatology. To ensure optimum collaboration and continuity of care, NCH Medical Group physicians share access to patient electronic medical records across all locations.

Patients of the NCH Medical Group can go online to request doctor appointments, ask questions, download and complete registration forms prior to their office visits, and register for free health seminars. To help individuals better manage their urgent and day-to-day healthcare needs, NCH launched MyNCH, a robust mobile app for Apple and Android mobile devices. The MyNCH app features real-time, estimated wait times at NCH’s Emergency Room and Immediate Care Centers. NCH Medical Group patients can send messages to their physicians, request appointments, view past and future appointments, and look up their lab and diagnostic imaging test results.

In addition to the Buffalo Grove and Arlington Heights locations, NCH Medical Group physician offices are located in Schaumburg, Mount Prospect and Palatine. To learn more about the NCH Medical Group, and to view physician bios and videos, visit www.nchmedicalgroup.com. To find a trusted physician, community members also can call HealthConnection at 847.618.4YOU (4968).

Gianna Chien: If You Have an Implantable Defibrillator and an Apple iPad, Don’t Hold it Against Your Chest

Cardinal News — Sat, 11 May 2013 13:18:40 +0000

Gianna Chien was somewhat different from all the other researchers reporting on their work May 9, 2013 to more than 8,000 doctors at the Heart Rhythm Society 34th Annual Scientific Sessions meeting in Denver, CO. Ironically, Chien’s study is based on a science-fair project that didn’t even win her first place. Olivia Sterns reports on Bloomberg Television’s “Money Moves.” (Source: Bloomberg)

If you have an implantable defibrillator or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, you don’t want to fall asleep with your Apple iPad or a laptop on your chest. The magnets or electrical interference can cause the medical device to go into “Magnet Mode” which deactivates the medical device — preventing it from correcting a potentially fatal heart rhythm disturbance, should it arise. The Magnet Mode is an intentional feature for maintenance for analysis of the implantable medical device. But an Apple iPad or any computer laptop that is inadvertently placed near the chest of a patient with an implantable defibrillator, could cause the device to fail to work when it’s needed if a harmful heart rhythm happened to occur.

Gianna Chien is 14, but her high school science fair project, which found that Apple’s iPad 2 can interfere with life-saving heart devices was presented to more than 8,000 doctors at the Heart Rhythm Society meeting in Denver, Colorado.

If a person falls asleep with the iPad 2 on the chest, the magnets in the cover can “accidentally turn off” the heart device, said Chien, a high school freshman in Stockton, California, whose father is a doctor. “I definitely think people should be aware. That’s why I’m presenting the study.”

– Gianna Chien, a high school freshman in Stockton, California

The Apple iPad 2, for example, uses 30 magnets to hold the iPad’s cover in place, Chien said. While the iPad 2 magnets aren’t powerful enough to cause problems when a person is holding the tablet out in front of the chest, laying the iPad on the chest or holding it against the chest while carrying it can be risky.

An implantable defibrillator goes to work when it detects rapid heart rate rhythms and applies the appropriate conversion therapy to the heart. When a magnet is applied to the chest, the internal defibrillator goes into “Magnet Mode” which turns off detection of faulty heart rhythms and turns off any appropriate therapy for cardioversion.

The problem has also been documented with laptops in a study released in June 2012. A study showed that an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) experienced electromagnetic interference from a laptop computer’s hard disk. The patient with the ICD was using his laptop computer at home while lying on his bed. The laptop was positioned on his chest, when he heard a beeping sound from the ICD, indicating magnet mode conversion. The situation was replicated in a controlled environment, and the conversion was found to be due to the static magnetic field produced by the laptop’s hard disk. The ICD’s conversion to magnet mode can be dangerous because it ends all tachyarrhythmia detections and therapies.

See also …
Tiikkaja M, Aro A, Alanko T, Lindholm H, Hietanen M. Inappropriate implantable cardioverter-defibrillator magnet-mode switch induced by a laptop computer. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol. 2012 Jun;35(6):e177-8. doi: 10.1111/j.1540-8159.2012.03330.x. Epub 2012 Feb 21.

Heart Rhythm Society — http://www.hrsonline.org

Northwest Community Hospital Offers Free Seminar About Heartburn in Rockford

Cardinal News — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 12:35:26 +0000

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. (April 9, 2013) – Occasional cases of heartburn often can be remedied with over-the-counter medications, but there is an underlying health risk for frequent heartburn sufferers. The burning sensation caused by stomach acids backing up into the esophagus can damage delicate tissue.

Northwest Community Healthcare (NCH) in Arlington Heights, Ill., is hosting a free community health seminar in Rockford. Gastroenterologist Willis Parsons, MD, medical director of the NCH Gastroenterology Center in Arlington Heights, will present “Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) – Not Always a Benign Problem” from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Monday, May 6, at Veterans Memorial Hall, 211 N. Main St., in Rockford.

Dr. Parsons will explain the serious health issues and cancer risk caused by chronic heartburn and GERD, including Barrett’s esophagus, a pre-cancerous condition that can lead to esophageal cancer – the most rapidly rising cancer in the United States. Dr. Parsons, a board-certified gastroenterologist who is recognized nationally for his work in advanced endoscopic procedures, will review facts and symptoms, suggest when to consult a physician, and explain diagnostic procedures and treatment options.

To learn more about heartburn, GERD and Barrett’s esophagus, register for this free seminar by calling 847.618.4YOU (4968), or visit www.nch.org/heartburn. Space is limited.

NCH Helps Individuals and Families Plan for Important Healthcare Decisions

Cardinal News — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 21:51:37 +0000

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. (April 4, 2013) – Northwest Community Healthcare (NCH) is holding a free seminar to provide individuals with guidance and resources for expressing their healthcare wishes before an unexpected medical circumstance occurs. The program is offered by NCH’s Palliative Care Services.

Join the Rev. Gwynne Wright of NCH’s Spiritual Care Services from 10 to 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April 16, at the NCH Auditorium, 800 W. Central Road, Arlington Heights, as she leads “Making Healthcare Decisions Work for You and Your Family.”

Wright will discuss the importance of creating an advanced healthcare plan and the steps needed to create an individual plan. Several activities are planned that will help participants determine the right path for future healthcare decisions. Participants will learn about necessary healthcare decision forms, the role of healthcare providers in setting goals of care and financial planning.

Specialists from Midwest Palliative & Hospice CareCenter will review care options for complex illnesses, explain how to prepare an advance directive and discuss patients’ healthcare rights and legal options. NCH chaplains will be available to assist attendees with completing their healthcare decisions forms. To register for the seminar, call 847.618.4968. Registration is required.

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Northwest Community Hospital Adds Genetic Counselor

Cardinal News — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 19:05:52 +0000

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. (March 28, 2013) – Northwest Community Healthcare’s genetic counseling program welcomes a new member who is helping patients and their families identify and manage their hereditary risks of developing cancer.

Avis Gibons, MS, CGC, a licensed and board-certified genetic counselor with experience in both clinical and research settings, is now serving patients whose personal or family medical histories indicate an increased risk of developing cancer. In her role, Gibons meets with patients to review personal and family medical histories, assesses patients’ risks of developing cancer, coordinates genetic testing and discusses results, and presents cancer screening and risk reduction options.

“We are thrilled that Avis has joined NCH’s genetic counseling team,” Keith Ammons, director of cancer services at NCH, says. “Her previous experience will be an asset to the genetic counseling team.”

Before joining NCH, Gibons served as genetic counselor at John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital in Chicago, where she assisted in establishing a formal high-risk cancer genetics clinic. Dedicated to raising awareness about genetic contributions to disease, she also has designed human genetics course curriculum for clinical research professionals, presented seminars in genetics to community members, and delivered continuing medical education in cancer risk assessment and hereditary cancer syndromes to healthcare providers. Gibons has completed a certificate in clinical cancer genetics from City of Hope, a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center and a founding member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network.

Gibons is an adjunct faculty member in the Division of Science and Health Careers at Oakton Community College, where she prepares students for careers in medicine and health sciences. Her research on the impact of genetic medicine on the employer-based healthcare system and on coverage and reimbursement of genetic tests and services has been cited in a report to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Gibons says that the multidisciplinary Commission on Cancer, established by the American College of Surgeons, considers genetic counseling a standard of service necessary to ensure quality and comprehensive cancer care delivery. By helping to identify patients at increased risk of developing cancer, genetic counseling can have dramatic effects on early detection and cancer outcome. In addition, genetic counseling empowers patients to make informed decisions about cancer screening, cancer prevention and genetic testing.

The NCH Genetic Counseling Team has more than 20 years of experience providing genetic counseling, including review of medical history, assessment of cancer risk, and consideration of early detection and risk reduction options. For more information visit www.nch.org/genes.

Learn More About Heartburn, GERD and More at NCH Free Seminar

Cardinal News — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 17:44:38 +0000

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. (March 25, 2013) – Occasional cases of heartburn often can be remedied with over-the-counter medications, but there is an underlying health risk for frequent heartburn sufferers. The burning sensation caused by stomach acids backing up into the esophagus can damage delicate tissue.

Northwest Community Healthcare (NCH) is hosting a free community health seminar in recognition of Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month in April. Gastroenterologist Willis Parsons, MD, medical director of the NCH Gastroenterology Center, will present “Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) – Not Always a Benign Problem” from 6 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 11, at Northwest Community Hospital in Arlington Heights.

To learn more about heartburn, GERD and Barrett’s esophagus, register for this free seminar by calling 847.618.4YOU (4968), or visit www.nch.org/heartburn.

Meet Doctors for the Whole Family at NCH Medical Group Open House in Schaumburg

Cardinal News — Sat, 09 Mar 2013 02:03:50 +0000

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. (March 7, 2013) – Northwest Community Healthcare’s Medical Group is hosting an open house event at its newest location, 455 S. Roselle Road in Schaumburg, on Saturday, March 16, from noon to 3 p.m. The new office opened in early February with two family practice physicians, who treat patients from pediatric through senior ages, and one internal medicine physician, who treats patients 14 years of age and older.

Guests attending the open house can meet family practice physicians Aimeelee Valeroso, MD, and Alan Kanter, MD, internal medicine physician Ajay Jain, MD, and office staff. Visitors can tour physician and physical rehabilitation offices, as well as the immediate care and imaging center located in the building next door at 519 S. Roselle Road.

“Opening our new NCH Medical Group office with easy access to Immediate Care, Imaging, Lab and Physical Rehabilitation service all within the same medical complex area offers patients convenient and coordinated care. Electronic medical records for every family member are housed at their NCH Medical Group physician’s office, accessible by Immediate Care Center physicians for treatment before or after the physician’s office hours. And if hospitalization is required, our NCH Medical Group hospitalist physicians also have access to the same electronic medical records,” said Michael Hartke, Executive Vice President, Systems Operations, Northwest Community Healthcare.

The open house event also will feature activities and food for the entire family. There will be balloon twisting, free hot dogs, ice cream and refreshments. One of NCH’s animal-assisted therapy dogs will greet visitors. Free first-aid kits and other items will be available. Guests also can enter drawings to win a free iPad or iPad mini.

RSVPs are appreciated, but walk-ins are also welcome. Register online or by calling 847.618.4YOU (4968). The new NCH Medical Group office brings expert physicians and trusted medical services to a convenient location for Schaumburg residents. The open house is a great opportunity for residents to see how NCH is making it easier to stay healthy.

In addition to the Schaumburg location, NCH Medical Group physician offices are located in Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Mount Prospect and Palatine. To learn more about the NCH Medical Group and to view physician bios and videos, visit www.nchmedicalgroup.com.

Whole Foods Market Opens in Kildeer, Palatine Store Closes

Cardinal News — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 03:35:54 +0000

The Palatine Whole Foods Market has moved to Kildeer. The new store is located at 20281 N. Rand Road near Deer Park. The new store with its hearth stone appearance is just east of Deer Park Town Center and also across the street on the north side of Rand Road. Whole Foods Market in Palatine officially closed for good at 10:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 5, 2013.

If you can’t get there right away, check these videos …

Discover just how easy it is to get great deals at Whole Foods Market by going on a value tour with blogger, author and working mom of two, Jenny Rosenstrach.

Stehly farms is a family run organic farm in the hills above San Diego. They produce Avocados, Oranges, Blackberries and more. Come take a look at what hard work and tradition can create.

Upcoming Events include …

PARMAGEDDON …

It’s the end of the world record! Join us in our stores as we simultaneously crack and sample over 400 wheels of authentic Parmigiano Reggiano. March 9th at 3PM EST.

MEET THE RANCHER Saturday, March 16, 2013, 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

“At Whole Foods Market, we pride ourselves on selling only the highest quality meat and poultry from animals raised with care by reputable producers. For our first Meet the Rancher event, you’ll get to meet one of our grass-fed beef partners and enjoy samples while learning more about the Global Animal Partnership’s 5-Step™ Animal Welfare Rating.”

GLUTEN FREE COOKING CLASS: GLUTEN FREE 101 Saturday, March 16, 2013, 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. at the Lifestyle Center, $10

Join our resident gluten free team member Mikey for a gluten free cooking class. We will cover the basics of gluten free living, and prepare 3 gluten free dishes. Hands on and plenty of great gluten free food! Space is limited; sign up at customer service or by calling 847.776.8080

VITAMIX ROADSHOW Thursday, march 21st 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. in the Produce Department

The Vitamix road show will be making a stop at Whole Foods Market Kildeer from March 21-25. Come see the power of this amazing machine! Did you know that the Vitamix can make and freeze ice cream, cook hot soups and gravies, grind meats, and it only takes 9 minutes for water to come to a rolling boil inside the machine! Come witness it yourself.

20281 N Rand Road
Kildeer Illinois 60074
United States
Phone: (847) 726-4601
Hours: 8am to 10pm seven days a week

wholefoodsmarket.com

youtube.com/wholefoodsmarket

In 1978, 25-year-old college dropout John Mackey and his 21-year-old girlfriend Rene Lawson, borrowed $45,000 from family and friends to open a small natural foods store called SaferWay in Austin, Texas. The name was a spoof of Safeway, owner of Dominick’s.

When the couple were evicted from their apartment for storing food products in their apartment unit, they decided to live at the SaferWay store. Because it was zoned for commercial use, there was no shower stall. They bathed using a water hose attached to a dishwasher.

They survived a flood that caused $400,000 damage to their store. They had no insurance, but customers pitched in to help them recover because they didn’t want to see the store disappear.

Today John Mackey is the co-CEO with Walter Robb overseeing over 320 stores in North America. Whole Foods Market only sells products that meet its own quality standards declared as “natural”, which the store defines as: minimally processed foods that are free of hydrogenated fats, and free of artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, preservatives, and many others as listed on their online “Unacceptable Food Ingredients” list.

Here is the Unacceptable Food List as viewed on the Whole Foods Market website on March 6, 2013 …

We reserve the right to change this list at any time. Please note that creating a product with no unacceptable ingredients does not guarantee that Whole Foods Market will sell it. This list is intended for illustrative purposes only. If you are interested in selling your product to Whole Foods Market, please contact a WFM buyer.

– Whole Foods Market

acesulfame-K (acesulfame potassium)

acetylated esters of mono- and diglycerides

ammonium chloride

artificial colors

artificial flavors

aspartame

azodicarbonamide

benzoates in food

benzoyl peroxide

BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole)

BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene)

bleached flour

bromated flour

brominated vegetable oil (BVO)

calcium bromate

calcium disodium EDTA

calcium peroxide

calcium propionate

calcium saccharin

calcium sorbate

calcium stearoyl-2-lactylate

caprocaprylobehenin

carmine

certified colors

cyclamates

cysteine (l-cysteine), as an additive for bread products

DATEM (Diacetyl tartaric and fatty acid esters of mono and diglycerides)

dimethylpolysiloxane

dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate (DSS)

disodium calcium EDTA

disodium dihydrogen EDTA

disodium guanylate

disodium inosinate

EDTA

ethyl vanillin

ethylene oxide

ethoxyquin

FD & C colors

foie gras

GMP (disodium guanylate)

hexa-, hepta- and octa-esters of sucrose

high fructose corn syrup

hydrogenated fats

IMP (disodium inosinate)

irradiated foods

lactylated esters of mono- and diglycerides

lead soldered cans

methyl silicon

methylparaben

microparticularized whey protein derived fat substitute

monosodium glutamate (MSG)

natamycin

nitrates/nitrites

partially hydrogenated oil

polydextrose

potassium benzoate

potassium bisulfite

potassium bromate

potassium metabisulfite

potassium sorbate

propionates

propyl gallate

propylparaben

saccharin

sodium aluminum sulfate

sodium benzoate

sodium bisulfite

sodium diacetate

sodium glutamate

sodium nitrate/nitrite

sodium propionate

sodium stearoyl-2-lactylate

sodium sulfite

solvent extracted oils, as standalone single-ingredient oils (except grapeseed oil).

sorbic acid

sucralose

sucroglycerides

sucrose polyester

sulfites (sulfur dioxide)

TBHQ (tertiary butylhydroquinone)

tetrasodium EDTA

vanillin

Learn The Facts About Colon Cancer At Northwest Community Hospital

Cardinal News — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 03:17:23 +0000

Medical Group’s free seminar
It’s the type of cancer no one wants to talk about, but colon cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. That’s why it’s important to get the facts about colon cancer and find out when screenings should begin.

With March being national Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, Northwest Community Healthcare’s Medical Group is hosting a free community health seminar. “Colon Cancer Facts & Fiction,” presented by Dr. Michael Hersh of the NCH Medical Group, is scheduled from 6 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 14, in the NCH auditorium, 800 W. Central Road in Arlington Heights.

Dr. Hersh is a board-certified gastroenterologist who will discuss colon cancer statistics, risk factors, and screening guidelines and options. Dr. Hersh and two other gastroenterologists from NCH Medical Group, Dr. Ami Behara and Dr. Aaron Benson, also will answer questions and dispel common misconceptions.

Colon cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States. Approximately 150,000 Americans will be diagnosed with the disease this year, and almost 50,000 people will die from colon cancer. Screening can prevent cancer through the removal of pre-cancerous polyps, and for those with colon cancer, improve survival through early detection.

While the March event is free, registration is required because space is limited. Attendees also can sign up by calling HealthConnection at 847.618.4968. Complimentary beverages and snacks are available. Attendees should park in the Visitor Garage on the east side of the campus.

For more details about Northwest Community Hospital’s Gastroenterology Center and its comprehensive services, visit the hospital’s website at nch.org/colon.

Northwest Community Hospital Hosts Parents Of Preemies Event

Cardinal News — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 03:12:15 +0000

Recognizing the courage and commitment of parents of premature babies, Northwest Community Hospital (NCH) is hosting a Parents of Preemies Day on Sunday, March 10, to bring awareness to premature births.

The free community event is scheduled from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the NCH Auditorium, 800 W. Central Road, Arlington Heights. Parents of preemies, families, friends and medical professionals are encouraged to attend the event, which will feature exhibitors from preemie and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) support organizations. Neonatologist Dr. Joel Fisher, director of the NICU at NCH, will speak at 10:30 a.m. and conduct a question-and-answer session after his presentation. Registrations are now being accepted at http://ppdchicago.eventbrite.com/.

The NICU Parent Advisory Council at NCH is creating a lending closet of preemie-sized clothing and will be accepting clothing donations at the event. Brunch-style appetizers will be served and several child-friendly activities are scheduled. Mascots from the Chicago Wolves and Schaumburg Boomers will make an appearance and kids will be entertained with face painting, crafts and snacks. A free raffle drawing also is scheduled.

As part of the second annual Parents of Preemies Day, Graham’s Foundation is hosting free local community outreach, support and awareness events for parents of preemies and their children and the general public. The event sponsored by NCH is hosted by local NICU support organization Eli’s Hope. Each year, 13 million babies are born prematurely throughout the world. Medical breakthroughs continue to improve outcomes for preemies, but experts are only now beginning to understand the intense psychological effects that premature birth has on parents.

Heavy Snow Today Is Known As “Heart Attack Snow” But It Should Also Be Known As “Hand Injury Snow”

Cardinal News — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 22:34:56 +0000

Today’s snow is especially heavy and wet. Warm air in the atmosphere, and the actual snow falling to the ground brought the ground air temperature down to freezing or slightly below freezing. The snow was on the verge of being rain, which makes for heavy, wet snow.

Shoveling can be good exercise, but only if you are already in good shape. Shoveling stresses the low back, neck and shoulders and the cardiovascular system.

Most important, if you have heart attack risk factors, don’t shovel snow. Get someone to do it for you.

Every year people die from heart attacks or sudden cardiac death while shoveling snow. The combination of speed and load can be very stressful on the cardiovascular system. Learn to pace during shoveling. Learn to take your heart rate and know your safe target heart rate range. Watch for symptoms of breathlessness, muscle fatigue and chest discomfort. Keep in mind the following:

(1) heavy load puts more stress on the heart,

(2) excessive speed of shoveling puts more stress on the heart,

(3) how far you throw the snow puts varying levels of stress on the heart,

(4) longer duration of shoveling puts more stress on the heart, and

(5) breathing cold air puts more stress on the heart and lungs.

Consider multiple shoveling sessions rather than one big session at the end of the snowfall. Watch the weather forecast and radar to keep up with snowfall expectations.

Another risk of heavy wet snow is that it is more likely to clog the snowblower chute. More fingers and hand injuries occur when wet snow falls. Compared to dry snow, wet snow clogs the snowblower chute, resulting in people to putting their hands in the chute to dislodge the snow. If they forget to turn off the snow blower … OUCH. People often suffer serious injuries involving amputation of fingers.

The injured are lucky if they can have the fingers re-attached by a hand surgeon.

It is best to get in the habit of using a stick to dislodge the snow in the chute … even when you remember to shut off the snowblower … then even if you forget to turn off the blower, the stick gets damaged, not your hand. Make sure you follow the snowblower manufacturers directions.

Time’s “Bitter Pill” Explains: “Who Should Pay for Health Care?” How About “Why Does Health Care Cost So Much?

Cardinal News — Sat, 23 Feb 2013 19:59:47 +0000

Steven Brill talks to TIME about his cover story “Bitter Pill: Why Medical Bills Are Killing Us” on the outrageous pricing and egregious profits that are destroying our health care.

Why Does Healthcare Cost so Much?

Sample Answers:

$77 for a box of gauze pads that someone could get at the drug store for $1.

1 “ACETAMINOPHE TABS 325 MG.” for one generic Tylenol pill, but someone could order 100 tablets on Amazon for $1.49.

$283.00 for a “CHEST, PA AND LAT 71020.” — a simple chest X-ray, which is only $20.44 for a patient on Medicare, the government health care program for the elderly.

$13,702 for “1 RITUXIMAB INJ 660 — an injection of cancer wonder drug Rituxan marked up over three times the $4,000 (possibly $3,500 at volume discount) that the hospital pays for the drug.

The Charge Master list at a hospital is a list of the thousands of items that they charge for at exorbitant prices. The explanation of the exorbitant prices from on hospital … “The issues related to health care finance are complex for patients, health care providers, payers and government entities alike … MD Anderson’s clinical billing and collection practices are similar to those of other major hospitals and academic medical centers.”

In our largest cities, the healthcare system offers lavish paychecks even to midlevel hospital managers, like the 14 administrators at New York City’s Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center who are paid over $500,000 a year, including six who make over $1 million.

Obamacare does very little to control prices healthcare expense, like prescription drugs, medical procedures, or CT scans.

See more …

Time Bitter Pill: Why Medical Bills Are Killing Us by Steven Brill.

Special K Red Berries Cereal Boxes Recalled for Possible Glass Fragments

Cardinal News — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 18:30:17 +0000

Kellogg’s is voluntarily recalling some packages of Special K Red Berries cereal because the boxes might contain fragments of glass. The recall includes certain 11.2-ounce, 22.4-ounce and 37-ounce boxes sold in the U.S.

“Please check any packages you have in your home and if your package matches the following criteria, please do not eat the product and contact us for a replacement coupon,” the alert said. “We may also make arrangements to retrieve the product for further evaluation.”

– Kellogg’s

The following Special K Red Berries packages are included in the recall:

11.2-ounce packages, UPC code 3800059923, Better if Used Before Date of DEC 02 2013 followed by KNC 105 with a time stamp of 00:13-2:30

22.4-ounce packages, UPC code 3800078356, Better if Used Before Date of NOV 30 2013 followed by KNA 105 with a time stamp of 07:00-08:51 or NOV 30 2013 followed by KNB 105 with a time stamp of 15:00-17:05

37-ounce packages, UPC code 3800020940, Better if Used Before Date of NOV 30 2013 followed by KNB 107 with a time stamp of 17:31-20:05

Northwest Community Hospital Hosts Fall Risk Screening Clinic March 1, 2013 — One Week From Today

Cardinal News — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 17:23:51 +0000

With falls reported as the leading cause of fatal injuries among older adults, Northwest Community Healthcare (NCH) is hosting a free fall risk screening clinic. NCH physical therapists will help individuals learn about their risk of falling and what they can do to keep themselves safe at home.

NCH’s fall risk screening clinic is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, March 1, at the NCH Outpatient Center, 3300 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows. Individual appointments last approximately 30 minutes.

Approximately one-third of Americans over age 65 suffer a fall each year. Every 17 seconds an older adult is treated in an emergency room for a fall and an older adult dies every 29 minutes following a fall. To sign up for this free clinic and learn what you can do to prevent falls, call 847.618.3890.

February 18 Immunization Clinic at Village of Arlington Heights Cancelled Due to Lower Federal Funding Levels

Cardinal News — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 13:16:24 +0000

Due to lower Federal funding levels, the Village of Arlington Heights Health Services Unit is unable to host the February 18 Community Partnership Immunization Clinic that has provided vaccines to children under the age of 19 on a monthly basis since 1993.

A notice was recently given by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention, indicating that funds are no longer available to sustain the vaccine for the under-insured population effective January 1, 2013. Unfortunately, 87 percent of the children seeking vaccine administration from the Community Partnership clinic are included in the under-insured category. For those under-insured, vaccines are available at many local pharmacies.

In response to the funding notification, Health Services has been in ongoing communication with the CDC and IDPH in an effort to obtain “deputization,” a designation that is required to allow the Community Partnership Immunization Clinic to serve the under-insured population. At this time, no decision has been made to grant this status to the Village’s Health Services Unit. The Village will continue efforts to re-establish this Clinic with the ability to serve all children who do not have coverage for immunizations. In the meantime, those who would typically receive immunizations through the Clinic can receive a vaccine from Federally Qualified Health Centers, Rural Health Centers or Certified Local Health Departments, which includes the Cook County Department of Public Health.

For those with no insurance, area clinics still in operation include the Cook County Department of Public Health in Rolling Meadows (847-818-2860), Hoffman Estates Village Hall (847- 781-4850), and Elk Grove Village Hall (847-357-4240). For those needing immunization summary records, please call Arlington Heights Health Services at 847-368-5760.

Northwest Community Hospital Invites Cancer Survivors To Chicago Wolves Hockey Game for Celebration

Cardinal News — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 12:14:32 +0000

Northwest Community Healthcare (NCH) and the Chicago Wolves are teaming up to celebrate cancer survivorship on Sunday, Feb. 17, when the hockey team hosts NCH Cancer Survivor Night at Allstate Arena in Rosemont.

“NCH is very excited to be partnering with the Chicago Wolves to celebrate cancer survivors,” said Keith Ammons, director of cancer services at NCH. “It is important to recognize the survivors and the journey they are taking in fighting cancer. The Cancer Program at NCH is led by professionals who take care of our patients from the time they enter our hospital, throughout treatment, and during their survivorship journey.”

With state-of-the-art medical technologies like the CyberKnife® Radiosurgery System, expert oncologists, and specialized nurse navigators who provide one-to-one support, Northwest Community Hospital is among the region’s leading centers for advanced and comprehensive cancer care. The hospital also offers a wide array of nutritional, emotional, spiritual and palliative care services to provide personalized care for each and every patient before, during and following cancer treatment. For more information, visit www.nch.org.

Lady Gaga Hip Injury that Postponed Tour Followed a Period of Weight Gain

Cardinal News — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:19:38 +0000

Lady Gaga says she’s “heartsick” to postpone four shows after sustaining an injury that’s left her unable to walk. Her performances set for Feb. 13-14 in Chicago, Feb. 16 in Detroit and Feb. 17 in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, have been postponed due to a case of synovitis, an inflammation of the synovial membrane in a joint or joints. Later she was reported to have suffered a hip labral tear, which may require arthroscopic surgery. The labrum functions as a washer in the hip joint to help secure the thigh bone in the hip joint. Long term suffering with synovitis can result in degeneration of a joint.

Gaga posted on Twitter to explain her condition, saying she injured herself during a performance a while back and her condition has worsened, leaving her immobile following Monday’s concert in Montreal. She had been hiding the injury from her staff, but can no longer perform.

“I’ve been hiding a show injury and chronic pain for sometime now, over the last month it has worsened. I’ve been praying it would heal”.

– Lady Gaga

The remainder of the “Born This Way Ball” tour is expected to continue on schedule, beginning with a two-night stand in Philadelphia on Feb. 19-20.

Makeup dates for the postponed shows will be announced later.

Lady Gaga has had some ups and downs in body weights which has been extensively documented in the gossip news. Extra weight is hard on joints — especially the weight-bearing joints, such as the hips, knees and ankles.

TMZ praising Lady Gaga’s physique in November 2011.

A little over one year ago, TMZ was exclaiming high praises for Lady Gaga’s hip and rear end area (November 18, 2011).

But last September …

TMZ: One look at Lady Gaga on stage at a recent concert will surely leave EVERYONE asking… WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED TO LADY GAGA!?!?

CNN featured social trending information concerned with the wait gain of Lady Gaga (“I’ve gained 25 pounds.”)

Lady Gaga has a strong following with fans commenting on her “inner beauty” and criticizing the haters that comment on her weight — going with the “Born this way” Lady Gaga tour theme.

NCH Medical Group Adds Physicians to New Schaumburg Location

Cardinal News — Fri, 01 Feb 2013 16:04:38 +0000

Northwest Community Healthcare’s (NCH) Medical Group is expanding its network of expert doctors by opening a new office location on Monday, February 4, at 455 S. Roselle Road, Suite 121, in Schaumburg. Two family practice physicians, who treat patients from pediatric through senior ages, and one internal medicine physician, who treats patients 14 years of age and older, will open a new NCH Medical Group office. At this new location, primary care doctors will provide residents of Chicago’s northwest suburbs with convenient access, including same-day visits, expedited appointments to other specialist physicians in the group, as well as NCH diagnostic imaging and immediate care services located in the building next door at 519 S. Roselle Road.

Aimeelee Valeroso, MD, and Alan Kanter, MD, are both board-certified in family medicine. Dr. Valeroso has been in clinical practice since 2006. She earned her Doctor of Medicine degree in 2004 from the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago. Dr. Kanter has been in clinical practice since 1994 and earned his Doctor of Medicine degree in 1991 from Northwestern University Medical School in Chicago. Ajay Jain, MD, is board-certified in internal medicine and joined the NCH Medical Group in 2012. Dr. Jain is moving his Schaumburg office located at 1375 E. Schaumburg Road to join Drs. Valeroso and Kanter at this new 455 S. Roselle Road facility.

The telephone number to schedule appointments with these physicians is 630.671.4980, or you can request an appointment online at www.nchmedicalgroup.com.

Patients of the NCH Medical Group can go online to request doctor appointments, ask questions, download and complete registration forms prior to their office visits, and register for free health seminars. To help individuals better manage their urgent and day-to-day healthcare needs, NCH launched MyNCH, a robust mobile app for Apple devices. The MyNCH app features real-time, estimated wait times at NCH’s Emergency Room and Immediate Care Centers. Patients can send messages to their physicians, request appointments, and view past and future appointments.

In addition to the Schaumburg location, NCH Medical Group physician offices are located in Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Mount Prospect and Palatine. To learn more about the NCH Medical Group, and to view physician bios and videos, visit www.nchmedicalgroup.com. To find a trusted physician, community members also can call HealthConnection at 847.618.4YOU (4968).

NCH Medical Group Adds 4th Gastroenterologist Northwest Community Hospital’s Growing Team

Cardinal News — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 07:39:59 +0000

Northwest Community Healthcare’s (NCH) Medical Group has expanded its network of expert doctors as it welcomes Gastroenterologist Ami Shah Behara, MD, MS. The addition of Dr. Behara expands NCH Medical Group’s gastroenterology practice to four specialists in treating disorders of the digestive system at four convenient locations in the northwest suburbs.

Dr. Behara has been in practice since 2010 and is board-certified in gastroenterology and internal medicine. She will treat patients at the NCH Medical Group office at 199 W. Rand Road in Mount Prospect. Dr. Behara earned her Doctor of Medicine degree in 2003 from Northeastern Ohio University’s College of Medicine. Her chief residency was performed at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. Dr. Behara is fluent in English and Gujarati.

NCH Medical Group offers a broad range of physician services. In addition to primary care internal medicine (patients 14+ years of age) and family practice physicians (pediatric through senior ages), other physician specialties of NCH Medical Group include dermatology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, neurology and rheumatology. In addition to medical office-based care, NCH Medical Group has physicians specializing in treating patients in the hospital, and others who focus treatment on patients in extended care rehabilitation facilities. To ensure optimum collaboration and continuity of care, all of the NCH Medical Group physicians involved in the patient’s care at the doctor’s office, the hospital, and extended care facilities share access to patient electronic medical records across all locations.

Patients of the NCH Medical Group can go online to request doctor appointments, ask questions, download and complete registration forms prior to their office visits, and register for free health seminars. To help individuals better manage their urgent and day-to-day healthcare needs, NCH has launched MyNCH, a robust mobile app for Apple devices. The MyNCH app features real-time, estimated wait times at NCH’s Emergency Room and Immediate Care Centers. Patients can send messages to their physicians, request appointments, and view past and future appointments.

NCH Medical Group physician offices are located in Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Mount Prospect, Palatine and Schaumburg. To learn more about the NCH Medical Group, and to view physician bios and videos, visit www.nchmedicalgroup.com. To find a trusted physician, community members also can call HealthConnection at 847.618.4YOU (4968).