The Annual Gala & Silent Auction will be held from 7 to 11 pm on Saturday, November 12 at the Wellsville Country Club. The donations for the auction are still coming in, but the items received so far include an Xbox Kinex system, a wicker porch set, Mikasa vases, Darien Lake passes, teddy bears, a newspaper subscription, a collection of books by Susan Williams Beckhorn, a giant stuffed dog and a pair of Christmas plates. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased from Lisa Sweet (585-596-4002), the JMH Gift Shop, INK, Steuben Trust Company or at the door.
According to event co-chairs Kathy Matacale and Ann Sobeck, auction items are still needed. If you would like donate an item or arrange for pickup, please contact Kathy at 585-593-1037.
The second major fundraising event this fall is the Auxiliary’s Country Fair. For over 30 years, the Country Fair has been a delightful tradition and this year is no exception. Set for Saturday, November 19 from 10 am to 5 pm at the Wellsville Elementary School, the Country Fair will include a variety of food and baked goods, used books, and knitted items. There will also be a basket auction, activities for children and Santa will stop by for a visit.
For more information on either the Gala or the Country Fair, stop in at the hospital Gift Shop or call Lisa Sweet at (585) 596-4002.
One of the highlights of the 10th Annual Jones Memorial Hospital Garden Reception, held the on August 7 at the hospital, was recognizing Clint and Samantha Gilkey for their years of dedicated service to both the hospital and the community.
"Both Sammy and her mother, Cynthia Gridley, served as president of the board of directors," said CEO Eva Benedict. "But the family tie that makes this an extra-special event is the fact that Sammy is the great grand niece of hospital founder Gertrude Fassett Jones."
Now an annual event, the 1921 Associates Garden Reception started 10 years ago as a way for the hospital to thank those who support the facility with an annual gift of $250 or more. "I want to take a minute to thank you, our most dedicated donors, for continuing to support the hospital," said Board Chairman Gary Balcom. "Jones Memorial was established when two people left a legacy that was embraced by the community and resulted in the facility we are today. I look around and am proud that the tradition of giving that started with William and Gertrude Jones, our original Hometown Heroes, allows us to continue to grow and adapt to meet the changing needs of those we serve."
"Clint and Sammy have been long-time supporters of the hospital and active in many community organizations," said Eva Benedict, CEO at Jones. "I am very pleased to honor them for the part they play at Jones Memorial and in the greater Wellsville community."
Photo Caption: The 2011 JMH Associate of the Year award was given to Sammy and Clint Gilkey. Family members on hand to help them celebrate were, front left, Jenna Minges, Shawn Murphy, Sammy Gilkey, Clint Gilkey. Back from left, Shelia Murphy, Kevin Murphy, Daniel Murphy, Mary Minges and Christopher Minges.
WELLSVILLE, NY (May 25, 2011) - It was 90 years ago next month that the new Memorial Hospital in Wellsville opened its doors and accepted the first patients. On July 8, Jones Memorial Hospital is celebrating nine decades of caring for this community with an Emerald Founders Ball.
"In every sense of the word, Jones Memorial is a community hospital," said CEO Eva Benedict. "It was founded by two Wellsville residents and supported for the past nine decades by a generous community. We would not be the facility we are today without the continued support of those we serve."
Jones Memorial was founded in 1921, when Gertrude Fassett Jones made a bequest to the Village of Wellsville to establish a hospital in memory of both herself and her husband, William F. Jones. Mrs. Jones was ill for several years before she passed away on June 6, 1920 and it is generally believed that it was the time she spent as a patient which reinforced her decision to give the Village a permanent hospital.
The Emerald Ball is set for Friday, July 8 on the Terrace at the David A. Howe Public Library. Tickets are $25 per person. Semi-formal dress is requested.
"You only turn 90 once so we want the Founder's Ball to be a very special event," said Mrs. Benedict. "The Medical Staff is sponsoring a wonderful band out of Rochester." The band is Twilight, a multi-piece group that performs a variety of music ranging from Big Band and Jazz to Disco and Motown. The evening will conclude with a fireworks display, sponsored by Delphi Emergency & Hospitalist Services and Associated Radiologists of the Finger Lakes.
Tickets for the Founder's Ball are $25 each. They will be available at Celebrations!, Hamilton's Shoe Store, the Wellsville-Area Chamber of Commerce or by calling the JMH Administration Office at 585.596.4002.
"We hope that everyone can come out and celebrate 90 years of Jones Memorial Hospital - by coming to the Ball or just enjoying the fireworks with us," Mrs. Benedict added. "It is a very special birthday celebration!"
The Jones Memorial Hospital Auxiliary's 7th Annual Celebrate Summer Classic Golf Tournament is set for Friday, July 1, at the Wellsville Country Club.
The tournament is a 4-person scramble. "What is really nice about the scramble format is that it is fun for serious golfers as well as those who haven't picked up a club in years - or ever," said Co-Chair Jason Reynolds. "We are still looking for golfers and for local businesses and individuals who would like to be sponsors."
The cost of the tournament and complimentary dinner is $340 per four-person team or $85 per person. The fee includes a cart, 18 holes of golf and complimentary dinner. Members of the Wellsville Country Club pay $70 per golfer and $280 per team. If you want to come just for the dinner and awards ceremony, the cost is $15.
Sponsorship opportunities range from the $2,500 Hole in One Tournament Sponsor, to the Eagle level for $1000 and the Birdie level for $500, as well as Par sponsors for $250 and Tee sponsors for $100 and a cart sponsorship for $50.
"We are looking for golfers and sponsors to offset the cost of the tournament and make it a successful fundraiser for the Auxiliary," Mrs. Pearson noted.
If you would like a brochure or more information about how you can participate in this event, please contact Jason at 585-596-4060 or Jodi Pearson at 585-593-1100, ext 5333.
WELLSVILLE, NY (May 1, 2011) In a fitting conclusion to the annual Volunteer Week activities at JMH, an appreciation luncheon was held on Friday, April 29th.
According to Volunteer Coordinator Jodi Pearson, after a prime rib lunch, CEO Eva Benedict had a few remarks and thank yous. "Our auxilians and volunteers are wonderful ambassadors in the communities we serve," she said. "Their positive words and support of our institution are immeasurable and greatly appreciated." CFO Tracy Gates commended them for the important role the volunteers play in the service we provide our patients and their families.
Sue Nicol, VP of Human Resources, also expressed her appreciation for everything the volunteers do at JMH. Last year JMH volunteers gave a total of 10,608 hours. "That is the equivalent of just over five full time employees," Jodi said, noting that if you multiply the volunteers hours by the current minimum wage—with a percentage of benefits factored in—it is $96,957.12 in free labor!
"From the time our patients and their families enter the front door to the time they leave they come in contact with a volunteer in almost every department," she added. "Our volunteers are that extra personal touch of care and comfort that our patients feel when they visit our hospital. We could not provide the service we do without our volunteers; they are vital."
Awards were given to the volunteers who were this year’s members of the Over 500 Club. Volunteers who give a minimum of 500 hours in the calendar year are members of the Over 500 Club. This year’s 500 Club members, from left in photo, Kathryn Gilbert, Lyle Edwards, Edna Gigee, and Phil Mesler. All the volunteers also received their new smocks which were purchased by the Auxiliary.
WELLSVILLE, NY (May 1, 2011) -- Girl Scouts from the Andover troop #41019 and Troop #40871 are collecting old and worn out American flags until June 4. The collection is being done in conjunction with the Andover American Legion.
Three of the troop members and leader Christie Schweigart stopped by to leave a drop-off box at JMH recently. The box, located in the Emergency Department lobby, is the only one in the Wellsville area. The girls, from left, Michelle Schweigart, Leah Simon, and Livia Simon, will participate in a flag ceremony on Flag Day, June 14.
According to regulation, a flag that is in poor condition must be "destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning." If you have a flag that is looking a bit worn, a bit ragged, please bring it to the Jones ER and place it in the box for a dignified disposal.
Wellsville, NY (May 7, 20110 -- The Tobacco Cessation Center presented Mona Carbone of Jones Memorial Hospital with a 2011 Tobacco Cessation Center Recognition Award at the annual 2011 Tri-County Tobacco Coalition awards luncheon Monday. Mona is the Emergency Department Director at jmh and has worked closely with the Coalition's Tobacco Cessation Center. She was also instrumental in creating the Jones Memorial Smoking Cessation Program. Because of her work, Jones Memorial adopted tobacco cessation as part of its strategic plan. Mona also reached out beyond the hospital to create a coalition of AlleganyCounty agencies dedicated to reducing tobacco use throughout the county. The recent decline in tobacco use in Allegany County in large part because of her efforts.
The JMH Billing Department recently gathered clothing to donate to the families left homeless after the fire in Cuba. Looking over the donations are front, Beth Day, Amy Fanton, Tiff Slawson, Kim Shelp, Pam Spink, Sue Kays, Heather Vogel and Deanna Hallock. The clothing was taken to the Cuba Cultural Center and distributed among those in need.
You can access e-mail and the internet just about everywhere these days. From doughnut shops to the library, it seems WiFi is everywhere! And now, it’s also at Jones Memorial Hospital!
Patients and visitors can surf the web or instant message friends and family and stay connected while at the hospital. To access the complimentary Wi-Fi for patients and visitors, talk to your nurse.
So next time you are heading to The Jones, plan to bring your Wi-Fi enabled laptop or smart phone, set it to connect to the Jones Guest SSID and enjoy surfing the web while you wait for your appointment!
WELLSVILLE, NY (April 30, 2011) -- Under the direction of the P2 Collaborative of Western New York and the Western New York Healthcare Association, this program looks to improve both the quality and the safety of patient care. Led by nurses and called Aligning Forces for Quality Transforming Care at the Bedside, or AF4Q TCAB, it is part of a nationwide program funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF). AF4Q TCAB engages nurses and other frontline staff to identify areas where care can be enhanced and test ways to improve it.
Also participating from WNY are: Brooks Memorial Hospital in Dunkirk, Erie County Medical Center (ECMC) in Buffalo, Kenmore Mercy Hospital, in Kenmore, Mercy Hospital and Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo, Mount St. Mary’s Hospital and Health Center in Lewiston, and Sisters of Charity Hospital-St. Joseph Campus in Cheektowaga.
"Hospitals across Western New York are looking for models of reform, things that help local people get high-quality care and make the system work better for everyone," said Shelley Hirshberg, Executive Director of the P2 Collaborative of Western New York which is leading the AF4Q TCAB program. "The work of the nurses and other hospital staff participating in this program will result in proven methods for improving patient care, which means better quality and more satisfaction for everyone."
Through the AF4Q TCAB program, nurses and other frontline staff at participating hospitals will work together to identify, pilot test and adopt new practices over an 18-month period starting in January 2011. Participating nurses will then share their successes and lessons learned with other hospital staff across WNY, NYS and around the country.
According to Donna Bliven, VP of Patient Services at JMH, nurses work closest to the patient and have the unique vantage point of knowing how to improve the system to in order to provide safer, better quality care. Engaging nurses directly in quality improvement is a step in the right direction.
At JMH five nurses have gone through the training and form the initial TCAB team, focusing on Med/Surg. Communication has been identified as a problem at some levels, so the team came up with a pad to keep by the patient bed so that they can jot down questions and concerns they may have about their care.
"We are also considering how reports are done and equipment and supply storage," explained Mrs. Bliven. "The TCAB project is meant to empower nurses, improve the satisfaction of the staff and the patients." Keep an eye on the Pulse to see how the project is progressing.
The Initial TCAB Team at JMH includes, from left, Donna Bliven, Betty Guinnip, Mary Ellen Austin, Melissa Deming and Tami Pinney.
WELLSVILLE, NY (March 1, 2011) -- March is colorectal awareness month. To bring awareness to this deadly disease, the New York State Health Department and the Cancer Services Program of Allegany and Cattaraugus County are lighting up Main Street in blue!
At JMH, everyone is encouraged to wear blue on March 4. The Cancer Services Program has asked several Main Street businesses to participate by decorating their windows and displaying posters. At Jones Memorial, all employees are encouraged to wear blue on March 4. In addition, the JMH Café will be featuring a Blue Plate Special to help bring awareness to this disease which kills some 4,000 New York State residents each year.
Colorectal cancer can be prevented or detected early through regular screening. New Yorkers can lower their risk of developing colorectal cancer by:
If you are 50-64 without insurance, call the Cancer Services Program at 585-593-3873 to find out how you can get colorectal screening. ''Photo: Jim Cretekos, Mayor of the Village of Wellsville, is joined by Eva Benedict, CEO at Jones, in the ribbon cutting to kick off Colorectal Cancer Awareness Week.
The first baby born at Jones Memorial in 2011 is Abigale Lynn Watson, the daughter of James and Athena Watson and baby sister to Isabelle, 22 months. Making her entrance at 12:08 am on Sunday, January 3, Abigale weighed in at 7.5 pounds, was 19.75-inches long and has a full head of hair. Dr. Heather Lanphere is Athena’s doctor.
As the New Year’s Baby, Abigale and her family were given congratulations gifts by area merchants as well as from the hospital. The family lives in Wellsville and James is employed by Sav-A-Lot on the Bolivar Road.
"What a very happy occasion," said Donna Bliven, VP of Patient Care Services at Jones, presenting a gift bag to Athena. "Congratulations from everyone at JMH."
WELLSVILLE, NY (December 2010) -- Every year the Beta Sigma Phi Chapter of Xi Alpha Omicron has a secret sister gift exchange for Christmas. This year in lieu of buying gifts for each other the sorority sisters chose to donate to a local charity instead. The group chose JMH to be the recipient of their generosity. Members of the group donated new children’s DVD’s to be used by our pediatric patients. The sorority sisters hope that their gift will bring some comfort and joy to the children who are hospitalized at Jones Memorial Hospital.
WELLSVILLE, NY (December 2010) -- After so many years in the baby business, it was only a matter of time until Dr. Cliff Miller reached a rare milestone: providing care to four generations of the same family!. Darius Rossrucker made his appearance in early November, he was welcomed by Dr. Miller, just like his mother and grandmother were! Celebrating this occasion with Darius were, from left, his grandmother, Nykol McMichael; his mom, Tasha Rossrucker, Dr. Miller, and his great-grandmother, Barbara Hart Laub.
One of the highlights of the annual Jones Memorial Hospital Auxiliarys Gala & Silent Auction is the crowning of the Auxiliary Queen. It is a long-time tradition; each of the Auxiliarys Twigs and several community organizations sponsor a candidate to sell tickets to the Grand Raffle. The young lady who sells the most tickets is crowned the Auxiliary's Queen at the Gala.
This year, the honor went to Emily Ewell, who sold over $4,000 in tickets to the Grand Raffle. Coming in second was Jillian Short, followed by Karleigh Presutti. All together, the seven queen candidates brought in more than $11,000 for the JMH Auxiliary – a new record!
"It is incredible - especially in these tough economic times - that these young ladies were able to raise this amount of money," said Sylvia Masin, Auxiliary member and co-chair of the Grand Raffle. "We have a generous and supportive community and this is a dedicated group of young ladies." The winners of the Grand Raffle were Diane Baisch, first prize; Monica Finn, second prize; and Mike McCormick, third prize.
Photo Caption: Emily Ewell of Wellsville, center, was crowned during the JMH Auxiliarys Gala & Silent Auction for selling the most tickets to the Grand Raffle. Wellsville’s Jillian Short, left, came in second and Karleigh Presutti of Belmont took third place.
The thoughtful generosity of staff members at Jones Memorial Hospital will make the holidays a little brighter for the families enrolled in Healthy Families of Allegany County. Since October 18, hospital employees have been bringing in non-perishable food items, new toys and clothing for kids, and new blankets, towels, and bedding. Sponsored by the JMH Employee Activities Committee, the effort was successful beyond all expectations!
The idea for the Helping Hands for Healthy Families event came from EAC committee member Jeff Ely, Facilities Services Director at Jones. "My sister Polly is Family Support worker at Healthy Families of Allegany County and she was telling me about the need for food, bedding, towels and toys to distribute to the families – especially with the holidays right around the corner," he explained, adding that all of the items collected will be given to families in Allegany County. “So I brought it to the committee to see if there was anything we could do to help.”
The EAC organized the effort and supplied a prize as an added incentive: $150 in Wellsville Chamber Gift Certificates. Everyone who brought something in for the Healthy Families received a ticket in the drawing. The winning name was drawn by Susan Padden, Program Director of Healthy Families of Allegany County. The winner was Beth Cooke, RN.
"All I can say is wow and thank you so much," Ms. Padden said, after seeing the items collected. "This will be such a great help to so many of our families."
Healthy Families of Allegany County is a voluntary home visiting program for expectant and new parents that promotes parent/child interaction, self-sufficiency and encourages families to access community resources. Families can enter the program prenatally and up until the baby reaches the age of three months. There are four levels of home visit intensity provided until the child reaches the age of five, or attends preschool or Head Start. The program office is located at 234 North Union Street in Olean. For more information, contact the Healthy Families of Allegany County at 716-372-5987.
PHOTO CAPTION: Representatives from Health Families of Allegany County stopped by Jones Memorial Hospital recently to pick up the items collected in the Employee Activities Committee’s Helping Hands for Healthy Families effort. Accepting the gift from JMH Facilities Services Director Jeff Ely, right, left, HFAC Family Support Worker Polly Kiblin, HFAC Program Director Susan Padden, and HFAC Program Supervisor Shane Lehman.
More than falling leaves and dropping temperatures, November means it is time for two of the Jones Memorial Hospital Auxiliary's major fund raising activities: The Country Fair and The Gala & Silent Auction.
The Annual Gala & Silent Auction will be held from 7 to 11 pm on Saturday, November 13 at the Wellsville Country Club. The donations for the auction are still coming in, but with a laptop, a Kindle, a Pandora bracelet and an IPad with WiFi among the auction items, the 12th annual event is shaping up nicely. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased from Lisa Sweet (585-596-4002), the JMH Gift Shop, INK, Steuben Trust Company, Hamilton's Shoe Store and Hart's Jewelry or at the door.
The co-chairs of this year's event are Ann Sobeck and Kathy Matacale. Donations. "Items for the auction are still being collected, so it you would like to make a donation, or arrange for pickup, please call me at 585-593-1037," said Mrs. Matacale. "This is a very fun evening and I hope everyone can come out and support the Auxiliary and the hospital."
"We are very excited about the items that have been donated to the Silent Auction so far," added Ann Sobeck. "We have such a variety - from original art and pottery, to an Ipad and two Kindles, to tickets to a Sabres game and a baseball signed by Reggie Jackson – I am confident that everyone will find something they can’t live without."
The second major fundraising event is the Auxiliary's Country Fair. For over 30 years, the Country Fair has been a delightful fall tradition and this year is no exception. Set for Saturday, November 20 from 10 am to 5 pm at the Wellsville Elementary School, will include a variety of food and baked goods, used books, and knitted items. There will also be a basket auction and children can visit with Santa, make a frame at the craft table, or visit the bounce house.
A much-anticipated addition to the day's activities this year is the JMH Community Wellness Fair, held from 9 am to 1 pm. The stations, for those 18 and over, will include blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose screenings, bone density, flexibility and balance testing. Several other organizations will be participating, including the Allegany-Western Steuben Rural Health Network, Southern Tier Health Care System, Allegany County Health Department, Partners in Prevention, Allegany County Cancer Services, and many others. Pre-registration is not available and the screenings are available on a first come, first served basis.
For more information on either the Gala or the Country Fair, stop in at the hospital Gift Shop or call Lisa Sweet at (585) 596-4002.
PHOTO CAPTION: Co-Chairs of the JMH Auxiliary’s 2010 Gala & Silent Auction, Kathy Matacale, left, and Ann Sobeck, right are joined by committee member Beth Day recently to look at a few of the items which have been donated to the Silent Auction.
Gordie Ordiway and Tom McFall of the Rare Breed Motorcycle Club stopped by Jones Memorial Hospital recently and presented CEO Eva Benedict with the proceeds of their 2nd Annual Labor Day Party. A public event held at the club's Alma Hill location over the Labor Day Weekend, this year the club raised $200 for Jones Memorial. "We certainly appreciate not only this check but all of your efforts in planning this event," she said. "Something like this takes a lot of time and effort to organize and we appreciate what you have done on behalf of Jones Memorial."
Becky Scott, left, of Literacy West NY, recently presented a big box of brand new, hardcover books for children to Sarah Reinschmidt, of the Jones Memorial Hospital Surgical Services Department. Literacy West NY is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting literacy and life-long learning among adults and children. According to Ms. Reinschmidt, the books are available in the surgical services waiting area for children. The children are also allowed to take the books home with them when they leave. Mrs. Scott, who explained that Literacy West NY receives the free books from The McGraw Hill Foundation, noted that additional books will be provided when this supply runs out. “We can't thank you enough for thinking of our patients and their families,” Ms. Reinschmidt said. “A good book can be very comforting in times of stress.”
Kathy Flint, left, and Mary Jo Vossler, members of the group Caring Hearts of the Southern Tier recently presented JMH with 20 pillowcases, handmade by group members in inscribed with a heart bearing the group's name. Caring Hearts has been making pillow cases for years and donating them to Strong Memorial Hosptial in Rochester. "This is the first gift to JMH, but we hope it will not be the last" said Donna Bliven, Vice President of Patient Care Services. "They are just beautiful and so appreciated by our patients." Each pediatric patient is given a pillowcase to take home when they are discharged.
With the hormonal and physical changes going on during pregnancy, many pregnant or postpartum women experience back and pelvic pain. The good news is that women do not necessarily have to suffer from this pain. The better news is that help is available at Jones Memorial Hospital.
JMH Rehab Services now include enhanced physical therapy services for pregnant and postpartum women. Shanna Winters PT, DPT, has been part of the JMH Rehab team for eight years and has successfully treated a wide variety of patients. Shanna is in the process of obtaining certification in various women’s health issues and has specific skills and knowledge to examine, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal dysfunctions that affect women who are pregnant or post partum. “Women are often under the impression that back and pelvic pain are a part of pregnancy,” she explained. “Although it is common, women don’t necessarily have to suffer from this pain.”
Physical therapy intervention, according to Dr. Winters, can address many of the physiological changes that happen in a woman’s body during pregnancy that can lead to pain. Examples of these interventions may include pelvic and core stabilization, manual therapy, patient education, functional restoration and modalities. The services for postpartum and pregnant women will be expanded to include a special exercise and health education program for women and their infants. For more information on these new services, please contact Shanna Winters at 585-596-4011.
Jones Memorial Hospital is pleased to announce that local businessman Mike Berardi and Nurse Anesthetist Barry Kulp have joined the JMH Board of Directors.
President of Giant Food Mart in Wellsville and Cuba, Mike Berardi is a resident of Wellsville. An avid runner, he has been involved in local youth sports for many years and keeps statistics for the high school football team. Mike is active in the business community and has served on both the Wellsville-area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and the Olean Wholesale Grocery Co-op Board. "I am proud and excited to be on the JMH board," he said. "I have had multiple opportunities to see the staff at Jones Memorial in action - from the birth of my three kids to my own emergency surgery to the care of both of my parents – and I am proud of our community hospital and pleased to be involved in making sure it is here for generations to come."
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Barry Kulp is part of the Southern Tier Anesthesiologists group. He and his wife, Kate, have three adult children and live in Wellsville. "My reasons for wanting to serve on the JMH Board are very selfish," he said. "I plan on being in Wellsville through my retirement and as a board member, I can help assure that JMH can provide for my family's healthcare needs. This community needs Jones Memorial Hospital."
Chaired by Gary Balcom, the board also includes Rich Shear, vice chair; Samantha Gilkey, treasurer; Mark Hunter, secretary; Rev. Marian Schneider, Willard Simons, DDS; Sharon Ash, Charles Joyce; Joseph Felsen, MD; Laura Greyson; and Robert Gilfert, DPM.
Eva Benedict, CEO at Jones Memorial Hospital, was recently named a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE).
"Fellow status represents achievement of the highest standard of professional development," said Gary Balcom, president of the JMH Board of Directors. "Only 7,500 healthcare executives hold this distinction and we are so proud that Eva is among this august company." To obtain Fellow status, candidates must fulfill multiple requirements, including passing a comprehensive examination, meeting academic and experiential criteria, earning continuing education credits and demonstrating professional/community involvement. Fellows are also committed to ongoing professional development and undergo recertification every three years.
Now in her third year in the top executive position at Jones Memorial, Mrs. Benedict has been part of the hospital family for over 25 years. She is also active in both the local and regional professional health community and is on the boards of !HomeCare & Hospice, Community Care of Western New York, the Southern Tier Healthcare System and Seagate Alliance. She is also Vice Chair of the Western New York Hospital Association, In addition to ACHE, her professional affiliations include the Healthcare Executive Forum of Western New York.
A native of the Bath area, Mrs. Benedict received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the State University of New York in Albany. She earned her Master of Science from St. John Fisher College in Rochester. She and her husband, Neil, have been Wellsville residents since 1981 and have two grown daughters, Meghan and Jillian.
As a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives and becoming a Fellow, Mrs. Benedict has demonstrated her commitment to Jones Memorial and those it serves. "Healthcare management ultimately affects the people in our communities," she said. "We have a wonderful administrative team in place here at Jones Memorial and a dedicated and committed staff. The standard of excellence promoted by the ACHE is one that we are committed to meeting or exceeding for our patients."
For more information regarding the FACHE credential, please contact the ACHE Division of Membership at (312) 424-9400 or membership1@ache.org, or visit the Credentialing area of ache.org.
Four generations of the Joyce Family were honored at the 10th Annual JMH Associates Garden Reception on August 1st.
"The Joyce family has already created quite a legacy locally that reaches beyond the generosity they have bestowed on JMH," said Eva Benedict, CEO. "The Joyce Family name and the business enterprise of Otis Eastern are a presence at many initiatives, both large and small, throughout our local communities." The good deeds done by the Joyce family are many and often undocumented, she noted, adding "Thank you for all you do for Jones Memorial and the entire community."
Photo Caption: The Joyce Family was honored at the 1921 Garden Reception, including, front left, Melanie Jackson, Kylen Jackson, Lorrain Joyce,Charles H. Joyce, Molly Jackson Turner, Maeve Turner, Burt Turner and Josie Turner. Back row, left, Matt Jackson, Charlie Joyce, Sherry Walton, Cory Joyce, Tina Joyce, Mike Jackson, Richard Joyce and Cheryl Jackson.
A Memorial Garden to honor deceased JMH employees was recently dedicated before a crowd that included the family and friends of those it is dedicated to.
The Memorial Garden is located in the front of the hospital and includes a variety of annual and perennial plants as well as a water feature of the fish pond with fountain. There is also a bench and a stone walkway. "The planting was done by the departments of those who have lost someone in recent years," explained Eva Benedict, CEO at Jones. "We have created a peacefully serene sitting area where we can sit quietly and remember those we once worked beside." The garden is open to the public.
PHOTO CAPTION: The dedication ceremony for the JMH Memorial Garden was attended by the family and friends of several recently deceased members of the Jones Memorial Hospital family, including Pam Wheaton, who passed away in 2008. Attending in her honor were, from left, her goof friend Dan Frungillo, her parents, Bob and Pat Wheaton, brother-in-law Don Zajicek, her sister Kim Zajicek, and her nephews Dustin and Justin Zajicek.
Tradition is important to many families. It is something that is passed on from one generation to the next. For the Joyce Family of Andover, giving back to the community is a family tradition that stretches back over decades and continues today. In honor of that spirit of caring for the community, Jones Memorial Hospital has named The Joyce Family as the 1921 Associate of the Year.
"The Joyce Family have been major contributors to the Hospital for many years," said Eva Benedict, CEO at Jones Memorial. "Individually and as a group, the family continues to be among our most generous and committed donors." Headed by Charles H. and Lorraine Joyce, the family includes four children ? Charles P. (Sherry Walton), Richard (Tina), Cheryl Jackson (Michael Jackson) and Teresa ? as well as six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. As the family business ? Otis Eastern ? has grown, so has the family?s commitment to the communities in which they live and work.
"Because they are usually quietly supporting local fundraisers and organizations behind the scenes, we are delighted that the family has accepted this both this honor and the public recognition of their generosity," Mrs. Benedict added. "It is our hope that everyone who can will be able to join us to thank the Joyce Family for their support of so many organizations in this community."
According to Mrs. Benedict, the 1921 Garden Reception is open to anyone who has made a gift between September 2009 and August 1, 2010 - the date of this year?s event. "This is a chance for the hospital to say thank you to our most committed donors and to honor someone they have chosen as especially dedicated," she said. Early each year, donors who have reached the $250 level or higher in the previous year are invited to nominate someone who has had a positive impact on the hospital and their community as the Associate of the Year.
Previous 1921 honorees are Margaret Mersereau, Mae Lauzze, Dr. Daniel Tartaglia, Dr. M. Keith Sale, Art VanTyne, Sylvia Masin, Joan Hand, Kathryn Gilbert, Dr. Kenneth VanDine, Dr. F. Clifton Miller, Dr. William Coch, and Kathryn and the late Conrad Church. If you would like information on how you can be a part of the festivities honoring the Joyce Family, contact Judy Burt or Lisa Sweet.
PHOTO CAPTION: Jones Memorial Hospital's Associate of the Year award for 2010 goes to the Joyce Family of Andover. Members gathered recently to celebrate mother's day with family matriarch Lorraine Joyce, seated in front. The family includes, from left, Tina, Richard and Cory Joyce; Mike and Cheryl Joyce Jackson; Sherry Walton, Charlie Joyce, Anna Joyce, patriarch Charles H. Joyce, Casey Joyce, Matt Jackson, Melanie Jackson, Molly Jackson Turner with Maeve Turner and Bert Turner with Josie Turner. Inset photo is Teresa Joyce.
Is there anything as warm and cozy as a newborn babe wrapped in a soft, flannel blanket? Thanks to a gift from The Quarter Inch Stitchers, a craft and quilt guild in Andover, babies at Jones Memorial Hospital will receive handmade quilted flannel blankets to keep them warm, cozy and wrapped up tight.
"These blankets are just beautiful," said Anne Geist, RN, Director of Maternal Services at Jones, third from right in the photo. "We are so grateful that the group thought of the maternity department to give them to!" Group member Patty Lamphier noted one of the inspirations for this particular gift is her granddaughter. Now a healthy eight-year-old, she was born prematurely and weighed only one pound 12 ounces.
The group, which meets on Wednesdays and on the third Monday of each month, handcrafts many different items. Their projects are for personal use or community projects, like the quilted flannel blankets.
CAPTION: Some of the group members were on hand to give the blankets to Mrs. Geist are, from left, Linda Adams, Evelyn Smith, Norma Rossman, Patty Lamphier, Anne Geist, Mary Cunningham, and Ruth Manske.
With 117 members donating an impressive number of hours and raising a remarkable amount of money, the Jones Memorial Hospital Auxiliary recently honored nine members for donating over 1,000 hours each in service to the hospital.
"The role of the Auxiliary has always been to support Jones Memorial Hospital," explained Kay Eicher, president of the Auxiliary. "This year, I am proud to say, we have collectively donated over 46,500 hours of service to Jones and as a result, we have been very successful in our efforts to raise money for the hospital." The auxiliary is able to raise the money they do through a number of fundraisers. In addition to the standards like the Country Fair, the Gala & Silent Auction, the auxiliary has expanded its fundraising opportunities to include new and used books sales, a take-out chicken barbecue, and costume jewelry sales.
"Using the proceeds from these events, the auxiliary is able to help us purchase items which are important, but not vital to patient care," explained Eva Benedict, CEO at Jones. This year, the list includes tables and chairs for the emergency department, chairs for waiting a number of hospital waiting areas, a new fryer for the cafeteria, hearing equipment for newborns, automated defibrillators for the Jones Memorial Medical Practices offices, stretchers for cataract surgery, and items needed to outfit the inpatient rehabilitation rooms.
"A simple thank you doesn't seem like enough to show our appreciation for everything the auxiliary does for JMH," said Mrs. Benedict. "They are inspiring, they are appreciated and they are so important to all of us at Jones Memorial."
Gary Balcom, president of the JMH Board of Directors, echoed Mrs. Benedict's sentiments. "The success of the auxiliary is the result of many individuals coming together to work for a common goal," he added. "Without them, many of these items might otherwise have to be delayed."
The members who were recognized for over 1,000 hours of services to JMH during the past year were, Kay Eicher, 6,175 hours; Marty Fuller, 1,503 hours; Kathryn Gilbert, 16,024 hours; Ruth Kling, 7,346 hours; Sylvia Masin, 5, 028 hours; Brenda Milligan, 1,500 hours; Phyllis Rigby, 1,050 hours; Joyce Wheaton, 1001 hours; and Hilda Whitney, 2,947 hours. Also recognized at the annual luncheon were Barbara Gordon of the Olive Twig and Caren Gibson and Joan Hand of the Hemlock Twig. JMH staff members Polly Helms and Luann Dixon were honored with a life membership in the Auxiliary for "going out of their way to help us when we needed it," said Mrs. Eicher. Also awarded Life Membership status was Ruth Kling.
In photo, front left, Kathryn Gilbert, Phyllis Rigby, Sylvia Masin. Back left, Joyce Wheaton, Kay Eicher, Hilda Whitney and Ruth Kling. Missing from the photo are Marty Fuller and Brenda Milligan, who also clocked over 1,000 hours serving JMH in the past year.
The Jones Memorial Hospital Rehab Department has expanded to include a weekly orthopaedic clinic, headed up by orthopaedic surgeon Terry Foust, DO.
A native of Coudersport, PA and a member of the medical staff at Charles Cole Memorial Hospital, Dr. Foust will see patients in the JMH Rehabilitation Services Department weekly, beginning April 8. Appointments can be made by calling (585) 596-4093.
Dr. Foust has a special interest in spine and trauma procedures. A graduate of Central PA College, Pennsylvania State University, and the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, he completed his internship and residency at Pinnacle Health System in Harrisburg. Before going to medical school, he worked as a physical therapist assistant. He is a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, American Osteopathic Association, American Osteopathic Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons, and Pennsylvania Osteopathic Medical Association.
"We are very excited to have Dr. Foust join our rehab team," said Brenda Szabo, Administrative Director of Diagnostics and Rehab at Jones Memorial. "He expands the range of orthopaedic services we can offer locally."
For more information or to make an appointment with Dr. Foust, contact the JMH Orthopaedic Clinic at (585) 596-4093.
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Wellsville, NY (November 16,2009) -- The eight young ladies vying for the title of JMH Auxiliary Queen sold more tickets to the annual Grand Raffle and raised more money than any other group of candidates since the tradition began 50 years ago.
According to organizers Kathryn Gilbert and Sylvia Masin, this year's candidates raised a total of $9,611. The top seller was Lauren Lynch, daughter of Terry and Reita Lynch of Wellsville. Lauren, who received her crown during the Auxiliary's Gala & Silent Auction, raised $2,494. Coming in second was Isabelle Raptis, daughter of Mike and Michelle Raptis of Wellsville, who raised $2,200. The third place recognition went to Julie Goodliff, daughter of Marietta and Greg Goodliff of Andover.
"This is the largest amount our queen candidates have ever raised, and I've been involved in this for over 30 years," said Sylvia Masin. For more information about the other candidates, click here.
The Grand Raffle winner was also drawn during the Gala & Silent Auction and the top prize went to Teri Monroe of Wellsville.
A giant teddy bear, a Keurig Coffee brewer, a handmade quilt, a Wii Fit System, Buffalo Bills tickets, pottery, handmade jewelry and four passes to the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown. These are just a few of the items that will be available during the JMH Auxiliary�s annual Gala & Silent Auction on Saturday, November 14. This year, the event has been moved back to the Wellsville Country Club. In addition to dancing to the music of the Jazz Ninjas, there will be an array of hors d�oeuvres and a cash bar.
This is one of the auxiliary�s major fundraisers. Most recently, proceeds from this event have been used to purchased new tile flooring for the main hallway and new seating for several areas. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at the door, from Lisa Sweet, or at the hospital gift shop. Looking over the auction items are members of the planning committee, left, Lisa Sweet, Ann Sobeck, and Nancy Lotter.
Congratulations to the JMH Cardiac Rehab Program has been re-certified until 2012 by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation.
Celebrating the certification are, from left, Administrative Director of Diagnostics and Rehab Brenda Szabo, Cardiac Rehab Coordinator Denise Richardson, and Cardiac Rehab Nurse Maureen Lewis. "Denise did an excellent job on the extensive application," noted Brenda. "The Association has strict standards for certification and it has been quite a job getting the application in order."
The Wellsville Lions Club Diabetes Center at Jones Memorial Hospital has been recertified by the American Diabetes Association.
A collaboration between the Wellsville Lions Club and the hospital, the recertification means that the Diabetes Center continues to meet the national standards for diabetes self management and education. Celebrating the recertification are Brenda Torrey, RN, a Certified Diabetes Educator and insulin pump trainer, right, and Wilma Stewart, Dietician.
"Applying for certification was voluntary but in order to be ADA certified," Mrs. Torrey explained, "We had to meet specific criteria, provide and document standards of service, and track patient outcomes. The whole process gives us a national standard by which to measure our progress."
Maintaining ADA certification means that many of the services offered by the Diabetes Center � including the 4-week Diabetes Self-Management Classes and point of care testing � will continue to be covered by most health insurances. For specifics on your coverage, check with your provider.
The Diabetes Center offers on-site testing such as A1C, lipids, urine micro albumin, and a retinal camera. For more information, contact your healthcare provider or call 585 596 5035.
WELLSVILLE, NY (October 27, 2009) � The Jones Memorial Medical Practices Women�s Health Services has been expanded to include a full-time, on-site 3D/4D ultrasound.
Staffed by ultrasound technologists and located at 127 North Main Street, the new site includes digital ultrasound equipment, a special ultrasound exam table and a 32-inch flat screen monitor. According to Carrie Walker, JMH Medical Imaging Director, the room was designed with the needs of all women in mind. "Ultrasound is used for abdominal and vascular imaging as well as Women�s Health," she said. "The digital images are consistently high quality, which is important both as a tool for diagnosis and, for OB patients, as a first look at their baby."
While having an ultrasound room right down the hall is more convenient than having to go to another site for the test, the benefits of being located in the same building go beyond that. "The close proximity means that if a concern is identified during a visit," Mrs. Walker explained, "The provider can order an ultrasound exam and it can be addressed immediately."
For more information about digital ultrasound or to make an appointment, call the Medical Imaging Department at (585) 596-4013 or talk to your healthcare provider.
PHOTO CAPTION: Rallying around the new ultrasound room are, front left, Lu-Ann Kaye, MD, Family Practice with OB; Nurse Midwife Robin Aftuck, CNM; Heather Lanphere, MD, OB/GYN; Ultrasound Tech Arielle Szabo;Ultrasound Tech Amanda Kinney, and Ultrasound Tech Amanda Katie Santos.
WELLSVILLE, NY (September 29, 2009) � Bob Garrison, right, and Gordon Ordiway of the Rare Breed Motorcycle Club stopped by Jones Memorial Hospital recently and presented CEO Eva Benedict, center, with the proceeds of their first "Labor Day Get Together."
Held at the club's Alma Hill location, the event � which included a variety of motorcycle games and three bands - brought out about 300 motorcycle enthusiasts and raised $300 for Jones Memorial. "Motorcycle Clubs get a lot of bad press so we decided to do something that positive that would help the community," explained Mr. Garrison. "The hospital takes care of us when we need it, so we wanted to do something to help take care of it."
According to Mrs. Benedict, the funds will be used to purchase a new video camera for general hospital for recording in-services and presentations. "We certainly appreciate not only this check but all of your efforts in planning this event," she said. "Something like this takes a lot of time and effort to organize and we appreciate what you have done on behalf of Jones Memorial."
WELLSVILLE, NY (September 10, 2009) � Jones Memorial Hospital is delighted to announce that Dr. Lu-Ann Kaye has successfully completed the American Board of Family Medicine�s Recertification Exam.
A member of the JMH medical staff, Dr. Kaye provides family practice with obstetrical care at the Women and Children�s Health Services on Main Street, part of the Jones Memorial Medical Practices. Her busy practice is limited to women of childbearing age and their children.
To achieve this certification, Dr. Kaye had to complete 300 hours of continuing medical education over the past six years and complete a comprehensive one-day, written exam. This exam, which tested cognitive knowledge and problem-solving abilities, included subjects ranging from adult care to community medicine to care of newborns, children, and adolescents. The test also included maternity and gynecological care, care of the older patient, human behavior and mental health, and care of the surgical patient.
Congratulations Dr. Kaye!
WELLSVILLE, NY (September 10, 2009) � "Successful beyond our expectations!" With these words Denise Hart and Pat Balcom of Hart's Jewelry summed up the recent Wine Tasting and Hors D'oeuvres fundraiser they organized for Jones Memorial Hospital.
Together with five other Main Street merchants, Hart's Jewelry arranged an evening of snacking, shopping and wine tasting that brought out over 80 people. For $25, participants purchased a special wine glass at one of the participating locations. Once the glass was purchased, a free wine tasting and finger foods were available at each of the six locations. In addition to Hart's Jewelry, the participating sites were Fisher's Pharmacy & The Other Side, Uptown Jam, The Vogue Shop, Trend Addictions and Hamilton's Shoe Store.
"Actually, this gift couldn�t come at a better time," said Eva Benedict, CEO at Jones. "We recently began providing ultrasound services at our Women and Childrens Health Services office on Main Street and will use these funds to purchase a dedicated ultrasound bed for that office."
According to Carrie Walker, Medical Imaging Manager for JMH, the new ultrasound bed will be different from a traditional stretcher because "it includes modifications for the special needs of obstetrical patients and for women who are not pregnant," she said. "Using this type of bed is more comfortable for the patient and more conducive to the exams."
Thanking both the merchants who took part in the event and the community members who attended, Mrs. Benedict noted "the support of those we serve has been an important part of Jones Memorial since the beginning. We continue to exist and to grow because of the support of our community."
For more information about how you can support Jones Memorial Hospital, contact Judy Burt at (585) 596-4050.
WELLSVILLE, NY (August 13, 2009) � Sunshine and smiles marked the ribbon cutting ceremony held at Jones Memorial Hospital today to celebrate the completion of the renovations to the Emergency Department.
Senator Cathy Young, who was instrumental in obtaining a $250,000 grant from the Community Capital Assistance Program, was on hand to congratulate JMH on a job well done. "I am glad I could support this effort," she said. "Rural healthcare is more crucial than ever before and this project speaks volumes about how much the community supports Jones Memorial."
According to ER Nurse Coordinator Mona Carbone, patient confidentiality, safety and efficiency were important considerations in the renovations. "In addition to everyone else, I would like to thank the community for their patience while we were under construction," she said. "There were days when we were down to two beds and we really appreciate the understanding of both the patients and the providers."
In addition to the CCAP grant obtained by Sen. Young, other major donations to the project came from The Margaret L. Wendt Foundation, $150,000; Charles Joyce and Sherry Walton, $30,000; the BP Petroleum Foundation, $25,000; and Otis Eastern, $25,000. "The Auxiliary donated all the furniture in the waiting areas," noted Eva Benedict, CEO. "During the 2008 Annual Fund Drive, we received more than $107,000 from our staff and community."
Following the ribbon cutting, Mrs. Carbone gave those interested a tour of the newly renovated areas. In addition to a new entrance, vestibule and expanded waiting area, the triage and registration areas were enlarged. The nurses station was modified for privacy and new windows were installed, making the waiting room visible from the ER. Other changes were a bigger medication room and the addition of an observation room for behavioral health patients.
"Everything was done with patient safety, patient privacy and patient flow in mind," Mrs. Carbone said. "These changes support all three."
For more information on how you can support Jones Memorial Hospital, contact Judy Burt, Community Relations Director, at (585) 596-4050.
PHOTO CAPTION: The official ribbon cotton ceremony for the Emergency Department was a major celebration at Jones Memorial Hospital. Sharing the moment are, from left, Jones CEO Eva Benedict, board members Sharon Ash and Samantha Gilkey, ER Nurse Manager Mona Carbon, Senator Cathy Young, Emergency Department Medical Director Frank Edwards, MD, and, representing the Delphi Emergency Group, Dr. Jay Ellie.
A hero, so they say, is an everyday person who can change the world. A Hometown Hero is someone who supports Jones Memorial Hospital�s 2009 Annual Fund Drive.
With the return of full time orthopedic services to Jones Memorial Hospital, the focus of the Annual Fund Drive this year is the surgical services department. This year, the campaign will also include a retail initiative that invites everyone to be a Hometown Hero and make a gift to JMH. At right, Mike Berardi, of the Giant Food Mart, was one of the leaders in kicking off this initiative. Joining him at the organizational meetings were Rich Shear of Hamilton's Shoe Store and James Knapp of Community Bank, NA.
In the early 1920s, William and Gertrude Jones left their home and a $30,000 endowment to the Village of Wellsville for the purpose of starting a community hospital. "They were our original Hometown Heroes, kicking off a long tradition of community support," said Eva Benedict, CEO at Jones Memorial. "A strong healthcare facility is important to maintaining a healthy community."
"Our goal this year is to raise $100,000 for equipment for the Surgical Services Department."
While the Annual Fund will continue until September 1, the Hometown Heroes retail portion will kicked off on June 15 and will continue through July 6. The participating Hometown Heroes locations are: Community Bank, Hamilton�s Shoe Store, Giant Food Mart, The Beef Haus, Better Days Pub & Eatery, Steuben Trust Company, !LaGra Salon & Day Spa, The Texas Hot, Salon Visage, Short�s Deli, L�Italia, the Belfast Mini Mart and First Citizens National Bank. All locations will display a Hometown Heroes Banner.
"It is a simple idea and one I�m sure most people are familiar with," explained Judy Burt, Community Relations Director at Jones. "When shopping at our Hometown Heroes locations, you will be invited to support Jones Memorial with a $1, $5 or $10 donation and sign a card that will be posted for the duration of the campaign." These cards may be signed in honor or in memory of someone.
In the recent years, the Jones Memorial Hospital Annual Fund Drives have helped to fund the new Sleep Disorder Center and much-needed renovations to the Emergency Department.
"This initiative encourages those who can�t make a larger gift the opportunity to support the hospital in whatever way they can," explained Mrs. Benedict. "JMH was founded through the caring commitment of two people and sustained with the continued support of those it serves."
Any gift over $250 will enroll you in the JMH Associates at the 1921 Associates level. This year, the honorees at the annual JMH Garden Reception in August will be Kathryn and the late Conrad Church of Andover, generous supporters - and Hometown Heroes - of Jones Memorial and the surrounding communities.
For more information, contact Judy Burt at (585) 596-4050 or by email.
The Medical Imaging Department at Jones Memorial Hospital has something to celebrate after the American College of Radiology (ACR) awarded JMH a three-year accreditation in CT.
"We started the accreditation process in September," said Carrie Walker, Administrative Director of Medical Imaging at JMH. "The decision to seek accreditation is voluntary and is not easily obtained, but we felt it was a very worthwhile goal that our patients will benefit from."
To attain accreditation, CT clinical images and phantom images were submitted to ACR along with documentation of JMH protocols for evaluation. After the ACR completed their review of the submitted information Jones was awarded accreditation for achieving high standards. "The evaluations are conducted by two board-certified radiologist and two medical physicists who are experts in the field," Mrs. Walker said. "The ACR CT Accreditation Program has very strict criteria that we must pass to achieve the certification."
Another advantage to seeking accreditation, according to Mrs. Walker, is that the comprehensive report the ACR puts together about the facility may document a need for dedicated equipment, for continuing education, or for qualified personnel. "Medicare and other payers have enacted reimbursement policies that may require accreditation in the near future," she added. "Achieving ACR accreditation demonstrates our commitment to quality patient care. Patients and physicians can be confident that the CT scans done at Jones Memorial will meet national standard."
For more information, contact Mrs. Walker at (585) 596-4013 or by email.
Kathryn and the late Conrad Church have been named the 1921 Associates of the Year. They will be honored at the annual 1921 Associates Garden Reception on Sunday, August 2 at 313 North Main Street in Wellsville.
Born and raised in Andover, Conrad Church attended the University of Alabama. While a student, he met classmate Kathryn Jones. They married a year after graduation in 1939. Returning to Andover, Conrad worked as the manager of Silvers Store in Wellsville until WWII. After serving in the Army, he returned to Silvers for a short time and then became a life insurance agent. In 1956, Conrad and two partners opened the Genesee Valley Nurseries. The couple has three children, Anne Church, Hugh Church, and Susan Church-Jamesson.
When Conrad passed away in 2002, Kathryn continued to be a generous supporter of the many local charities and organizations they gave to as a couple, including Jones Memorial, Andover Central School, her church, and the University of Alabama.
"During the 60-plus years Kathryn and Conrad Church were married, they constantly gave back to their community in so many ways," said Eva Benedict, CEO at JMH. "Because of Kathryn's generosity and her dedication to continuing what they started together, that legacy continues to this day. I am very happy to be honoring them both as the JMH Associate of the Year."
According to Mrs. Benedict, the Garden Reception is an opportunity to say thank you to JMH donors. "Our donors are very important to us," she said. "The people we honor at this gathering � both the Associate of the Year and the donors - understand how important this hospital is to the health of our community and how important they are to the future of Jones Memorial."
The annual Garden Reception honors donors who have given $250 or more to the Hospital in a year.
For more information about the 1921 Associates or any of the other giving opportunities available at Jones Memorial Hospital, please contact Community Relations Director Judy Burt, at 585-596-4050 or by email burtj@jmhny.org.
Past honorees include Margaret Mersereau, Mae Lauzze, Dr. Daniel Tartaglia, Dr. M. Keith Sale, Art !VanTyne, Sylvia Masin, Joan Hand, Kathryn Gilbert, Dr. Kenneth !VanDine, Dr. F. Clifton Miller and Dr. William Coch.
The Moms Club of Wellsville donated the proceeds of their annual Fat Tuesday Chocolate Buffet to JMH. Combining that gift with one from the JMH Auxiliary, the hospital purchased a Broselow Bag, a pediatric resuscitation system that has all the information and equipment needed for in a color coded, easy-to-use kit. Med/Surg Nurse Manager Betty Guinnip and ICU Director Scott Swift, on left in the photo, show the contents to Moms Club President Lori Brandes and Treasurer Kate Rahr. In front are Tiernee Brandes and Bryce Rahr.
WELLSVILLE, NY (April 1, 2009) -- JMH Medical Practices is delighted to welcome Dr. Ra�l Zambrano? to the 15 Loder Street office. Dr. Zambrano is assuming the patients who had been affiliated with Dr. Siddiqui.
Board certified in Family Medicine, Dr. Zambrano comes to Wellsville from Walden, New York where he was the Medical Director at Hudson River Healthcare.
New patients are welcome to establish with Dr. Zambrano. To make an appointment, please call his office at 585-596-4123.
WELLSVILLE, NY (April 1, 2009) -- Providing comfort to children is the reason behind the ACCORD Corporation�s Book, Blanket, Buddy kits. Kay Eicher, left, JMH Auxiliary president and member of ACCORD�s Advisory Board, recently delivered a supply of the kits to the ER. Accepting the packets, were ER Nurse Manager Mona Carbone and ER Physician Dr, Larry Torpey.
"Our goal is to provide some small comfort to children who are experiencing trauma in their lives," explained Mrs. Eicher, "Whether it is a domestic dispute, a house fire, or in this case, a trip to the Emergency Department." The kits were assembled by ACCORD Community Action Angels volunteers. "Some of the books are appropriate for toddlers and preschoolers, while others are appropriate for older age groups," said Mrs. Eicher. Kits have also been given to other Emergency Responders throughout Allegany County.
For more information, contact Accord's Dave Crowley at 268-7605.
WELLSVILLE, NY (March 31, 2008) � Five years ago, Dresser-Rand pledged $50,000 to Jones Memorial Hospital�s Wonderful Beginnings Capital Campaign. Recently, Clifford C. Cameron, left, the Human Resources Manager for Dresser Rand in Wellsville, stopped by the hospital to deliver the final payment on that pledge. �Dresser Rand played a major role in making our state-of-the-art maternity suite a reality,� said Mrs. Benedict. �This pledge was a commitment to the future of healthcare in this community and for that, we thank you.� The Wonderful Beginning Capital Campaign resulted in a complete renovation of the Maternity Unit at JMH into private birthing suites. For a closer look, take a virtual tour of the Maternity Unit!
WELLSVILLE, NY (March 10, 2009) -- What better place to have a fundraiser in conjunction with the American Heart Association�s annual Go Red For Women campaign than at Curves, a fitness club for women! Curves owner Carol Dodge, right, made a heart-themed afghan and then held a raffle it off among Curve members. To keep the money raised local, she decided to donate it to the Jones Memorial Hospital Cardiac Rehab program. Denise Richardson, the JMH Cardiac Rehab nurse, was happy to accept the generous donation. She plans to purchase more education materials for patients because exercise and education go hand in hand when it comes to heart health. The winner of the quilt was Deb Perry
At one time or another, nearly everyone has trouble sleeping. It's a familiar scenario: The stresses of the day accompany you to bed, where you spend precious hours tossing and turning until the sun comes up in the morning. For most of us, occasional insomnia is probably nothing to worry about. For others, a good nights sleep is a rare event and can be indicative of sleep disorders.
For some 40 million Americans, quality sleep is hard to come by. Sleep studies � which look at the quality of sleep � are one way to identify the causes and help individuals get back to sleeping. In 2009, Jones Memorial Hospital will begin offering sleep studies at the hospital. The annual fund drive, now underway, will be used to renovate space on the third floor into comfortable, home-like bedrooms.
Physician surveys and community interest have both indicated the necessity of opening sleep center in Wellsville. "A sleep center has been part of our strategic plan for the past few years," explained Donna Bliven, Administrative Director of Patient Care Services at Jones Memorial. "Not only do our community members presently go outside the area for sleep studies, but our medical staff has indicated that they would utilize this service if it were available here."
The first step toward a local sleep center is renovating the space. �We have two rooms on the third floor that we are planning on dedicating as a sleep center,� Mrs. Bliven said. "The 'home-like' atmosphere is important because people are more likely to have their typical night's sleep." Renovations will include real beds � not hospital beds � as well as other bedroom furniture, artwork, and lamps that reflect the home-like setting.
According to Mrs. Bliven, the hospital will contract for sleep study services with a sleep study provider that will assure compliance with the American Academy of Sleep Medicine standards. This group would provide all staff and equipment needed to do the sleep studies.
Once it is up and running, the sleep center would be available by physician referral on an as needed basis. "By contracting with one of the sleep study firms, we can utilize their expertise and staffing to get this service up and running," she said.
According to Mrs. Bliven, sleep studies are generally easy to tolerate, comfortable for patients, and give the physician the information needed to accurately diagnose and treat the sleep disorder. "The primary care provider can use a sleep study to rule out conditions like sleep apnea," she said.
For more information or to make a donation to the Sleep Center at Jones Memorial Hospital, please contact Judy Burt at (585) 596-4050.
The medical coders at Jones Memorial Hospital were recently recognized by Ingenix, a leading health information, technology and consulting company, for accuracy and completeness in the medical coding used to bill Medicare for inpatient medical services. The JMH coders were ranked 29 out of 50 rural, non-teaching facilities in the nation.
According to Shelly Harris, Health Information Management Director at JMH, remaining compliant and ensuring reimbursement are the two major goals medical coders have. "Ingenix releases an annual list of the top coding hospitals in the US," she explained. "With so many new rules, regulations, and coding requirements, hospitals find it more difficult than ever to balance the need to remain compliant with the need to optimize reimbursement. I am so proud that this team has been recognized for their efforts to meet these goals." The JMH Medical Coders also received this award in 2006.
Using more than 50 indicators that point to coding excellence, the Top 200 Report identifies hospitals that have adapted best to CMS updated policies, reduced payment for hospital acquired conditions and increased pressure for correct coding by way of the Recovery Audit Contractors (RAC) program.
"This is a national report that ranks major and minor teaching hospitals, urban non-teaching hospitals and rural hospitals by recognizing those who have the most complete and compliant coding practices," Mrs. Harris explained. "Not only did we come in at the top 30, but as one of only two hospitals in New York State to make the list." Congratulations on this prestigious award ladies!
WELLSVILLE, NY (November 16, 2008) � Susan Searl, RN, the Staff Development Director at Jones Memorial Hospital has been certified as a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) by the International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN). She is the only nurse in Allegany County to be SANE certified.
To achieve the certification, Mrs. Searl completed a 40 hour training program as well as 40 hours of supervised clinical competency. She has been working on this certification for one year.
As a SANE nurse, she has been trained in the care of sexual assault victims. In the case of suspected sexual assault, Mrs. Searl will provide the initial physical and behavioral assessment, collect clinical specimens and provide interventions for victims of sexual assault. "Simply put," she explained, "I come in and do the medical workup and sexual assault exam, collect and document the evidence and make sure all evidence follows the legal chain of custody with law enforcement." In addition, she will testify if necessary at trial. As a SANE nurse, she will also provide pregnancy, HIV and STD tests and - with physician approval - dispense appropriate medications.
"Because a basic care provider is trained to meet the needs of sexual assault victims, patient privacy and safety are increased," she added, noting that annual competency exams and continuing education are required to maintain certification.
Mrs. Searl's training was provided through Southern Tier Health Care System, Inc.(STHCS) with a New York State grant. STHCS Chief Executive Officer Donna Kahm will be working with the area hospitals and police departments to promote a consistent approach to handling sexual assault cases in Allegany and Cattaraugus counties.
WELLSVILLE, NY (November 13, 2008) � Allegany Eye Foundation President Gary Enderle, right, stopped by for a look at the latest piece of eye equipment the group purchased for use at JMH. Ophthalmologist Dr. Kurt Benham and OR Director Sue Thomas expressed appreciation to the Foundation for the new astigmatome. Used during cataract surgery, the new equipment makes precise and accurate cuts for astigmatism correction simply and safely. "This is a great advance in cataract surgery," said Dr. Benham. "We are all so grateful to the Allegany Eye Foundation for their continued support." Operating strictly on unsolicited donations and gifts, the Allegany Eye Foundation was set up as a vehicle for people who want to contribute to ophthalmology equipment at Jones Memorial Hospital. "Before the Foundation was established, there was no formal way for people to designate that gifts be used to purchase eye equipment at Jones Memorial," explained Mr. Enderle. "We work with the doctors and rely on them to tell us what equipment they need." For more information about the Allegany Eye Foundation or to make a donation, please contact Eric Vossler at Allegany Eye Associates, (585) 593-6041.
WELLSVILLE, NY (October 30, 2008) � A surgery that offers lower risk of surgical complications and a shorter recovery time? Now that is a procedure worth talking about! Jones Memorial Hospital has invested in equipment and resources in two procedures that fit that description: balloon sinusplasty and subcapsular tonsillectomy.
The balloon sinusplasty widens the sinus openings without removing any bone or tissue in the nasal cavity. "Unlike traditional endoscopic sinus surgery, there are no complications or injuries to the eye or the brain," Dr. Sakr explained. "Pain is minimal and most patients can go back to work the day after surgery." With two years of data to go by, the balloon sinusplasty has virtually the same satisfaction rate of that the endoscopic surgery has.
Dr. Sakr has been performing balloon sinusplasty for over two years � the past two months at Jones Memorial - and has done over 700 sinuses. He is one of the few surgeons who can perform this procedure on children.
"Dr. Sakr is one of the most skilled and most experienced balloon sinusplasty surgeons in the country," said Harish Harpalany, the balloon technical specialist in the OR during Dr. Sakr's sinusplasty surgeries. "His average of less than 0.3 minutes of x-ray use per sinus is well below the national expert average of 0.8. His last few cases at Jones � including a four-year-old � have averaged 0.1 min per sinus." The short x-ray exposure is extremely important for the safety of both the patients and OR staff.
Another surgery Dr. Sakr performs at Jones Memorial is the subcapsular tonsillectomy. An alternative to the traditional total tonsillectomy, this procedure reduces the size of the tonsils, instead of cutting them out completely. "It is less painful because the capsule is preserved," he said. "The nerve and big arteries are behind the capsule, so this surgery also involves less bleeding." The recovery time for both tonsil procedures is about a week, but pain and bleeding are less with the subcapsular procedure.
A surgeon for over 25 years, Dr. Sakr specializes in sinus and cancer surgery and is an assistant professor at the University of Rochester. He performs surgeries in Wellsville on Wednesdays and �loves to work with the Operating Room staff at Jones Memorial.� For more information about either of these procedures, contact Dr. Sakr�s office at (585) 335-6034.
WELLSVILLE (October 8, 2008) � More than falling leaves and dropping temperatures, November means it is time for two of the Jones Memorial Hospital Auxiliary�s major fund raising activities: The Country Fair and The Gala & Silent Auction.
The 10th Annual Gala & Silent Auction will be held from 7 to 11 pm on Saturday, November 8 at the David A Howe Public Library. In addition to refreshments and music by The Jazz Ninjas, the evening features a silent auction of items including handmade quilt, an Adirondack bench, a wrought iron candle tree, and Tiffany-style balloon lamp. Tickets are $25, are available from Lisa Sweet at 596-4002, in the hospital gift shop, or at the door on the evening of the Gala. A cash bar will be available.
The co-chairs of this year�s event are JMH employees Kathy Matacale and Ann Sobeck.. Donations for the auction are still being accepted. If you would like more information, contact Kathy at 585-593-0137 or Lisa Sweet at (585) 596-4002.
On Saturday, November 15 from 9 am to 6 pm at the Wellsville Elementary School, the Auxiliary will host the Country Fair, a Wellsville tradition for over 30 years.
In addition to a basket raffle, the Fair includes a visit from Santa, and booths with a variety of food and baked goods, used books, knitted items and handmade crafts.
In addition, Jones Memorial Hospital clinical staff will be on-hand with blood pressure checks and glucose screenings. Other JMH staff members will be overseeing the children�s craft table, where every child will is welcome to have a photo taken and make an ornament to bring home.
For more information on either the Gala or the Country Fair, stop in at the hospital Gift Shop or call Lisa Sweet at (585) 596-4002.
Students in Mark Corwine�s art class at Wellsville High School designed posters for the Auxiliary Country Fair this year. Judged by local artist Tom O�Grady, first place went to Rebecca Williams. Here, auxiliary member Nora Zinner puts the first place blue ribbon on the poster submitted by Rebecca Williams. The second place ribbon went to Ashley Pratt and Hilary Briggs came in third place. All the posters were judged beautiful and will be used to advertise the Country Fair, which is set for Saturday, November 15
OB/GYN with special training in Urogynecology
WELLSVILLE, NY (July 10, 2008) �For many fathers, having your child join you in your profession is the American Dream. For Dr. Cliff Miller - obstetrician, gynecologist and pediatrician - that dream is about to come true.
Dr. Miller, left, will welcomed his daughter, Dr. Heather Lanphere, right, as a partner in his office in the Jones Memorial Medical Practices in Wellsville. Dr. Lanphere and Dr. Miller will both see patients - along with our other women�s health providers at the Women�s Health Services Building on North Main Street in Wellsville.
Dr. Lanphere, also an obstetrician/gynecologist, grew up observing the busy life and erratic schedule that comes with delivering babies. "I remember my father being called out at all hours," she said, noting that seeing the joy and the pride that Dr. Miller has in his profession was a major factor in choosing it as her own. "To be able to work with an experienced physician that I respect is a privilege, that he is my father is a special bonus."
In addition to her OB/GYN experience, Dr. Lanphere has additional training in urogynecology, a specialty area that deals with women�s urology and pelvic problems. "The most common disorders treated by a urogynecologist are incontinence, weakening of the pelvic muscles, and overactive bladder," Dr. Lanphere explained. "Incontinence can affect women of all ages and is more common as women get older, but it is not an inevitable part of aging and there are a number of treatment options."
A graduate of Wellsville High School, Dr. Lanphere received her medical degree from the University Of Vermont College Of Medicine. She most recently completed a residency in OB/GYN at University of Louisville in Kentucky.
"My father is an amazing doctor and I couldn�t ask for a better mentor," she said. "I am looking forward to working with him for many years."
Appointments with Dr. Lanphere may be made by calling her office, 585 596-4091.
WELLSVILLE, NY (May 16, 2008) � Long-time local physician Dr. William Coch has been named the Jones Memorial Hospital 1921 Associate of the Year! Dr Coch will be honored at the annual 1921 Associates Garden Reception, traditionally held on the first Sunday in August on the lawn of the Bradley Holbrook Medical Building, 313 North Main Street in Wellsville.
A member of the JMH Medical Staff with a private practice in Andover for over 30 years, Dr. Coch and his wife, Carla, have two sons, Julian and Reilly, as well as three grandchildren. Dr. Coch came to Andover in 1975 as part of the National Health Service Corps to provide medical care to an underserved area.
A native of Northport, NY, Dr. Coch attended medical school in Cleveland. It was during his post graduate training at the University of Vermont that he met Dr. F. Clifton Miller, who convinced him to come to Allegany County. He and Dr. Miller came for a visit on Thanksgiving in 1974. "When we got here, I found the people friendly, the need great, the county beautiful and the opportunities limitless," he said of that visit.
Dr. Coch and his family savor the joys of rural life including gardening and small scale farming. "We try to be good stewards of our land," he said, noting that they also support and enjoy the rich cultural life of Allegany County. He is a guitar picker and yodeler and performs regularly with the Quigg Hollow Band.
Previous 1921 Associate of the Year honorees include Mae Lauzze, Margaret Mersereau, Art !VanTyne, Keith Sale, MD; Daniel Tartaglia, MD; Joan Hand, Sylvia Masin, Kathryn Gilbert, Dr. Ken !VanDine and Dr. F.C. Miller.
According to Mrs. Benedict, the Garden Reception is an opportunity to honor one person and to thank the invited guests for continuing to support the hospital. "Our donors are very important to us," she said. "They continue a tradition of giving that was started over 80 years ago by our founders, Gertrude and William Jones." Mr. & Mrs. Jones left their home and property to the Village of Wellsville for the purpose of starting a community hospital.
"The people we honor at this gathering � both the Associate of the Year and the donors - understand how important this hospital is to the health of the community," Mrs. Benedict said. "They also understand the part they must play in the future of Jones Memorial and the Garden Reception is our chance to say thank you."
The JMH Associates Garden Reception is for everyone who has donated $250 or more to the Hospital each year. "I would like to take this opportunity to invite everyone to participate this year and join us in honoring Dr. Coch," Mrs. Benedict added.
For more information about the 1921 Associates or any of the other giving opportunities available at Jones Memorial Hospital, please contact Community Relations Director Judy Burt, at 585-596-4050 or by email.
WELLSVILLE, NY (June 12, 2008) � Reducing employee injuries is the primary objective behind the Occupational Medicine program at Jones Memorial Hospital. Certified by !ErgoScience, the program provides job demands analysis (JDA), post-offer employment testing (POET), and functional capacity evaluations (FCE) for business and industry. !ErogScience specializes in training Occupational Medicine professionals to provide these services.
"This is a high tech method of testing an employee's ability to do the physical demands of the job," explained Brenda Szabo, DPT, Administrative Director of Diagnostics and Rehabilitation Services at JMH. Through extensive training with the company !Ergoscience, five therapists in the rehabilitation department have been certified to perform post offer employment testing, as well as functional capacity evaluations. Two therapists have obtained additional training in order to complete job function analyses.
"This program will allow us to help employers better match potential employees to the jobs that they are hoping to obtain, while potentially reducing workplace injuries", explained Dr. Szabo, DPT. The first local business to take advantage of this program is Dresser-Rand.
According to Dr. Szabo, the first step is to perform the job demands analysis at the work site. "The JDA looks at what sort of positions and activities the employee is required to perform for that job, and also the demands the job such as lifting or pushing," she explained. "From that a post-offer employment test is developed and administered to the potential employee to see if that person is physically a good match to the job they are hoping to obtain." The results of the test are sent to the employer and the employer makes the decision based on the results whether they can proceed with hiring.
"We are excited about this new partnership because we feel it offers us as a company many benefits. Not only does it have the potential to reduce employee injuries, but it also makes our workplace a safer place for our existing employees," said Ron Knight, Health, Safety and Environment Manager at Dresser-Rand. "Jones Memorial has already performed several of the job demands analyses and post-offer employment tests, and we have been pleased with the outcomes."
For more information about the Occupational Medicine program at Jones Memorial, email Brenda Szabo, DPT or call her at 585-596-4010.
WELLSVILLE, NY (April 28, 2008) � Each semester, students at Alfred State College are invited to Give Up A Meal for a good cause. This year, the pediatric patients at Jones Memorial Hospital benefited when ASC students raised $1,186 by giving their meal cards an extra swipe.
When Alfred State College Radio Station Advisor Rick Herritt, brought the lack of entertainment options in the JMH pediatric unit to their attention, WETD General Manager Andre Jacobs and WETD Webmaster Yash Manraj designated the hospital as the recipient of this semester's GUAM (Give Up A Meal). Twice a year, members of the Student Senate station themselves at various eateries on campus and encourage their fellow students to give their meal cards an extra swipe.
"A huge thanks goes out to every student who donated, as well as to both Student Senate and ACES for providing the mechanism of recording and then making the donations," said organization advisor, Mark Amman. "Thank you so much to everyone who helped!"
According to Betty Guinnip, Nurse Manager of Pediatrics at Jones, the money will be used for items including crib carousels and baby swings for infants, Laugh and Learn Stride and Ride Walkers for toddlers and Etch-a Sketches and coloring books for children. In addition, a DVD/VHS player/TV with an assortment of disks and tapes, a PlayStation 2 and Beanie Babies and dolls will provide comfort in the hospital and when they head home.
"This was exceptionally generous of the students," Mrs. Guinnip said. "The items were put into use immediately and the children are enjoying them immensely. Thank you, to all of the students at Alfred State for your generous donation!"
PHOTO CAPTION: Alfred State College Student Andre Jacobs, presented the proceeds of the spring semester Give Up a Meal fundraiser to Eva Benedict, left, CEO at Jones Memorial, and Betty Guinnip, the nurse manager of pediatrics.
WELLSVILLE, NY (April 8, 2008) � What does the Hospitalist Program at Jones Memorial Hospital mean to you? If you are admitted to the hospital, it means that your primary care provider (PCP) will transfer your care to a hospitalist. Most, but not all, of the PCPs on the JMH Medical Staff are participating in the Hospitalist program.
While you are an inpatient, the hospitalist will be your physician of record, providing and directing your care until you are released. At that point, the hospitalist will return your care to your primary care provider.
"We have found, over the past few years, that many younger doctors will not consider working in a practice that includes hospital work," explained Eva Benedict, CEO at JMH. "It is nearly impossible to find physicians today who will agree to be on call to a hospital at all hours of the day and night." By instituting the hospitalist program, recruitment efforts have been enhanced. The hospital has contracted with Delphi Emergency Physicians to provide the physicians, nurse practitioners and physician assistants included in the hospitalist staff.
After 35 years of working day and night, Dr. William Coch is one of the physicians participating in the hospitalist program. As such, he has given up his daily hospital rounds. "Hospital care has become faster paced and more complicated," he said. "It is increasingly difficult to manage a patient�s hospital care when most of my time is spent in the office, where patient visits can be interrupted by an urgent call from the hospital."
The hospitalist staff will include doctors, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners who will be at the hospital for 10 � 12 hours a day, 7 days a week. They will also be readily available for inpatient emergencies during off hours. "This more intense staffing should make for more efficient and better inpatient hospital care," Mrs.Benedict said. "By next year, we should have the electronic medical record installed in most of our physician offices, so all of a patient's medical records will be immediately available to the hospitalist doctors at all times, including an up-to-date list of medicines."
PHOTO CAPTION: Hospitalist Services at Jones Memorial Hospital are provided by Delphi Emergency Physicians, including Dr. S. Ahmed, Dr. Frank Edwards and Physician Assistant John Waide.
WELLSVILLE, NY (March 28, 2008) -- Senator Charles Schumer stopped by Jones Memorial Hospital to host a press conference about a five point package he has presented to Congress that would mean a change to the Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement method for diabetes care.
According to Sen. Schumer, his plan would place a greater emphasis on preventative care. He cited the spiraling number of new diabetes cases and the lifestyle changes that may be contributing factors. It was the Senators first visit to Jones Memorial and included an invitation to return for a tour of the facility.
The speakers for the day were as varied as the people who can develop diabetes.
Now a 23-year-old nursing student, John !LaForge was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at 15. He learned to manage his condition at Jones Memorial Hospital. Rick and Trisha Herritt, whose five-year-old daughter Carolyn has diabetes, talked about the difficulties of getting Carolyn the care she needs when the pediatric endocrinologist is two hours away. Having specialized care closer to home would ensure that young patients like Carolyn continue to progress, according to Mr. Herritt. Pediatrician Dr. Zahi Kassas talked about juvenile diabetes and how important it is to learn healthy habits at an early age. Winding up the afternoon, Dr. William Coch noted that things have changed in his practice in the past 35years. Now, more than half his patients on any given day are diabetics. Senator Schumer also took a few minutes to congratulate the Wellsville Lions for initiating and their continued support of the Wellsville Lions Club Diabetes Center at Jones Memorial Hospital.
WELLSVILLE, NY (March 22, 2008) -- The Schoolhouse Quilters Guild (SQG) recently donated 20 quilts, handmade by members, to the Prenatal Care Assistance Program (PCAP) at Jones Memorial Hospital.
PCAP is a program for pregnant women who are uninsured or underinsured. In addition to those donated by the SQG, quilts have been donated to PCAP by Deb Barry, Barb Savins, Sarah Robarts, Linda Barnes and Jude Ryczek. "The homemade quilts are a wonderful gift and are appreciated by everyone who receives one," said Nancy Saupe, PCAP Coordinator at Jones Memorial. "I give them to the moms when they come in for their first postpartum visit." The quilting was donated by Sue Johnson, who owns Quilted Treasures.
Over 12 years ago, a group of local quilters founded the Schoolhouse Quilters Guild. The group meets on the second Monday of each month in the Fellowship Room at the Shepherd of the Valley on Fassett Lane in Wellsville. You don�t have to be a quilter to join, just someone who appreciates the "needle arts".
The group has made quilts for Allegany County organizations including the American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, the Monday Club, Accord, for local veterans, the Balloon Rally, and Jones Memorial Hospital�s maternity unit. The group has also a friendship quilt for an Allegany County quilter who lost it all in a tornado, as well as contributing tops for the families of soldiers killed in Iraq, to the Quilt for the Cure initiative, and for Hurricane Katrina victims. The latest project is the Wellsville Sesquicentennial Quilt.
In addition to a year-long block-of-the-month teaching exercise, members of the SQG have learned to dye fabric, gone on �shop hops� to regional quilt shops, made mystery blocks, Christmas ornaments, learned appliqu� and embellishment, and have undertaken two row-robin challenges, among other things. "We are lucky to have many talented members who have been wiling to share their knowledge with the rest of us," said member Carolyn J. Miller. "We also occasionally bring in guest speakers and teachers from other areas."
Membership in the guild is open to anyone interested in the art of quilting, whether they quilt or not. Dues are currently $10 per year, payable each September. Everyone interested in quilting and associated needle arts - from novice to expert � is welcome to join the guild. For more information, contact ail Sue Johnson by phone at (585) 593-3264 or email.
PHOTO CAPTION: The Members of the School House Quilters Guild recently donated 20 quilts to the PCAP/MOMs Program at Jones Memorial Hospital. Proudly displaying their creations are front, left, Maggie Masker, Avon Crist, Kate Truax, Carolyn Miller, Marjorie Finn, Lyn Vorhees, Martha !McGee, Barbara Savins, and PCAP Coordinator Nancy Saupe. Back row, from left, Bertha Muench, Ginny !LaForge, Geralyn Gough, Nancy Johnson, Char Kephart, Carol Stewart, Margie Bedelyon, Sue Johnson and Betsy Orlando. Participating in the quilt project, but missing from the photo are Debby Barry, Donna Brown, Dorothea Harris, Karrie Landon and Ollie Mayo.
WELLSVILLE, NY (March 20, 2008) -- Is there any group that spends as much in an effort to improve their game than golfers do? Between the lessons, the clubs, the greens fees, and the membership dues, it can add up to quite an investment. But - like the song says - it won�t mean a thing, if you don�t have the swing.
Jones Memorial Hospital is holding a Posture for Golf event in the Rehab Department at 7 pm on Thursday, March 27. If you would like to have your golf swing assessed by a physical therapist, grab you clubs and stop by the Rehab gym. No pre-registration is necessary.
"The one area that many golfers do not invest in, is fitness," said Justin Moyer, a physical therapist on the staff at Jones Memorial Hospital. "Ask any golfer who has suffered from low back pain, hip stiffness, or fatigue: Golf is a physically demanding sport."
This golf swing posture assessment is a reminder that fitness is an important part of injury prevention. "A golf swing requires stability in some joints and flexibility in others," he added. "The correct posture can prevent injuries and improve your game."
During the golf posture event, physical therapists will assess each participant�s posture during their golf swing and be given a Fit for the Fairway sheet with postural recommendations. "Tips for correct posture in other areas of the golf game � like when carrying clubs � will also be available," Mr. Moyer said. JMH Rehab also offers individual assessments and golf fitness programs designed to meet individual needs. For more information, contact the Rehab Department at (585) 596-4011.
WELLSVILLE, NY (March 12, 2008) -- For more than 20 years, the Allegany Eye Foundation (AEF) has been quietly raising money to buy eye equipment to be used at Jones Memorial Hospital. A county-wide organization, the AEF most recently donated $50,000 to the hospital for the purchase of equipment to be used to outfit a second cataract surgery Operating Room at the hospital. According to Allegany Eye Foundation member Timothy Embser, left, the group has raised more than $200,000 since it was founded by Ophthalmologist Kenneth VanDine over 20 years ago. Mr. Embser stopped by the hospital recently to take a look at the new equipment and to present a check to Jones CEO Eva Benedict, right. Dr. Kurt Benham, center, explained the benefits of the new equipment. For more information about the Allegany Eye Foundation, contact Mr. Embser at (585) 593-1090.
WELLSVILLE, NY (March 1, 2008) -- The Wellsville MOMS Club (Moms Offering Moms Support) recently donated the proceeds of its Chocolate Buffet to two community organizations with which many mothers are very familiar: Jones Memorial Hospital's Emergency Department and the David A. Howe Public Library.
"The Chocolate Buffet was a great success thanks to the fantastic members of our community who came and who contributed," MOMS Club Secretary Kristy Evans said, right in photo. "We have to give a special thanks to L�Italia and the Beef Haus for donating desserts; Dr. Zahi Kassas� office, Mystique Salon, Tammy Kokot and Tami�s Floral Expressions for donating raffle items; and to Argentieri Brothers for donating the table linens."
Held on Tuesday, February 5 at the Library, the Chocolate Buffet featured a wide variety of sweet treats. "We also have to thank the MOMS members who made many of the delicious chocolate desserts we had available," added Megan Gregor, right, Vice President of Membership for the Wellsville MOMS. "Variety is key to a buffet and thanks to our talented members, there were many different kinds of chocolate confections."
In addition to helping with the renovations to the JMH Emergency Department, the group made a gift to the David A. Howe Library�s Terrace & Auditorium Restoration fund. "We are very pleased to have raised $850," Mrs. Evans noted. "This is the first time we have had this event and we are already planning improvements for next year."
Eva Benedict, the CEO at Jones, was one of those who attended the chocolate event. "This was one of the most delicious fundraisers I have ever been to," she said. "On behalf of all of us at Jones Memorial, thank you for making us one of the beneficiaries of such a wonderful � and fun � event."
The MOMS Club is a support group for mothers who are home with their children during the day. Mothers and their children are welcome at MOMS Club activities, which include monthly meetings, playgroups, childrens� crafts, and a Mom�s Night Out. "In addition to supporting mothers, we are dedicated to helping our local community through service projects that benefit women and children," explained Mrs. Gregor. If you are interested in hearing more about the group, call (585) 593-5372.
WELLSVILLE, NY (January 15, 2008) -- Dr. Edward N. !McDonald, an Internal Medicine physician with nearly 30 years in private practice, will be joining the Jones Memorial Medical Practices on Monday January 21. He will be seeing patients at the Belvidere office in Belmont.
Relocating to the area from Rochester, Dr. !McDonald was most recently a part of the University Cardiovascular Associates in Rochester. Dr. !McDonald is board-certified in Internal Medicine.
"We are very excited that Dr. !McDonald has chosen to relocate his practice to Allegany County," said Julie Hart, Vice President of Marketing at JMH.
Dr. !McDonald will see patients age 15 and over. Appointments can be made now by calling the Belvidere office at 585-268-5700.
Dr. !McDonald and his wife, Mary Haverfield, have two grown daughters. The are looking forward to relocating to the Wellsville area. Please join us in welcoming Dr. !McDonald to Wellsville!
WELLSVILLE, NY (January 15, 2008) � For many people over age 40, dizziness or balance problems become an issue at some point in their lives. It may be caused by an imbalance in the peripheral vestibular system (the inner ear).
Fortunately, this problem can be addressed through a targeted physical therapy program and - even better � Jones Memorial Hospital has expanded the Rehabilitation Services to include the JMH Balance Clinic.
Physical Therapist Megan O�Brien, PT, MSPT has completed specialized training on vestibular examinations and treatments. As the lead therapist in the JMH Balance Clinic, she will design an individualized vestibular exercise program designed to help those affected compensate for the imbalance in the inner ear.
"Normal balance is a combination of sensory systems: visual, vestibular - found in the inner ear - and muscle strength and sensations from the skin, muscles, tendons and joints," Mrs. !O�Brien explained. "When these systems are not functioning well, individuals may experience episodes of spinning, light-headedness, trouble focusing their eyes and/or poor balance or falls, or vertigo."
The program may include balance activities and/or vestibular based exercises of eye or head movements. The balance activities help people maximize the use of the remaining vestibular function, their sight, and the sensation in their feet to keep their balance. Because each patient's symptoms and needs are different, it is very important to design a program to meet individual needs.
For more information or to make an appointment with the JMH Balance Clinic, call the Rehab Department at 585 596 4011.
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