By: Robert Remler
In addition, alcoholism and chemical dependency affect a wide circle of people close to the substance abuser: relatives, friends, neighbors, employers, co-workers, classmates, teachers, health care professionals. It is also linked closely to many of America's most difficult social problems such as crime, domestic violence, teen pregnancy and homelessness.April is Alcohol Awareness Month and North Shore University Hospital at Glen Cove has joined a national grassroots campaign to raise public awareness that alcoholism is a treatable and preventable disease, and that family members need help, too.On Thursday, April 11, the Division of Substance Abuse Services at NSUH at Glen Cove, in conjunction with the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, will offer free confidential meetings with substance abuse counselors as part of the alcohol screening program at the hospital's Community House from 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., 101 St. Andrew's Lane, Glen Cove. Call (516) 674-7852.
Cardiac catheterization lab
As though news that South Nassau Communities Hospital's Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory has successfully treated its 10,000 patient isn't enough, the lab is well on its way to its next milestone in its ongoing quest to eliminate cardiovascular disease.The lab's 10,000th patient was treated by Andrew Lituchy, MD, who was assisted by the lab team under the direction of Donna Forte, RN."This is a direct reflection of the communities' trust in the services we provide and the technology we employ and regard for our clinical skills and experience," said Jerome Zisefein, MD, chief of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory. "While we are proud of this achievement, it is just another stepping stone in our ongoing mission to provide the most effective care and technology to detect and treat cardiovascular disease."The Cardiac Catheterization Lab was the first on Long Island to use solid-state image cameras for diagnostic procedures. This technology produces high-resolution images and precise data while reducing the patient's exposure to radiation by 50 percent. It was also the first to offer transradial angiography, which enables the physician to use an artery in the wrist to insert the catheter into the circulatory system, reducing bleeding and shortening recovery time, so most patients can be discharged the same day."We are always in a mode of exploring and developing innovative patient-centered technology and techniques. That's why the communities and residents of the South Shore can count on us for comprehensive cardiac catheterization services that improve and preserve the quality of life."For more information about South Nassau's Cardiac Catheterization Lab, call 1-877-South-Nassau.
New medical management department
Nassau University Medical Center is pleased to announce the opening of its newest department: Medical Management. This department combines three previous departments under director Jan A. Kline, MA, R.N., including social work, medical case management and utilization review management.The idea behind the reorganization is in keeping with a national trend within the healthcare industry to consolidate resources in the delivery of services. Richard B. Turan, president and CEO of the Nassau Health Care Corporation said, "This is a wonderful opportunity for NUMC to demonstrate to the community the talents and skills of its staff in the ways we plan for our patients' care. We have three disciplines under one umbrella and each works beautifully with the others in flexible and collaborative ways.
Ostomy club meeting
Franklin Hospital Medical Center's Ostomy Club will meet on Thursday, April 18, 7:30 p.m., in the hospital's Medical Library, 900 Franklin Avenue.Certified Social Worker Kathy Bradfield of Franklin's Social Work Department will lead the group in a discussion on the topic "Staying Stress Free in a Stress-Filled World."For additional information about the monthly meetings of this support group for family members and interested individuals, contact Franklin's Wound Care Manager Pat Arana at (516) 256-6024.
Other events and activities
Tobacco Action for Long Beach at Long Beach Medical Center, on Thursday, April 4, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Speakers from the Tobacco Action Coalition of Long Island and the NYS Tobacco Control Office... Used-book sale at Long Island Alzheimer, 5 Channel Drive, Port Washington, on Saturday, April 20, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, call (516) 767-6856...17th Annual Spring Luncheon sponsored by Child Abuse Prevention Services on Thursday, April 18, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at the Long Island Marriott in Uniondale. Tickets are $75, with all proceeds benefiting CAPS Child Safety Institute. For reservations and information, call (516) 621-0552... Arthritis Support Group is meeting at Island Trees Public Library, 38 Farmedge Road, Levittown, on Thursday, April 4, 1 p.m. For information, call (631) 427-8272...Fibromyalgia support group will be meeting on Thursday, April 11, 1 p.m., at Island Trees Library, 38 Farmedge Road, Levittown. For more information, call (631) 427-8272.
