Media Releases 2006 (continued)


SCRUBBY BEAR IS BACK IN THE CLASSROOMS (4/06)
Hold on to your honey jars, 'cause there's a fuzzy bear around! Regional Medical Center is proud to announce that its goodwill ambassador, Scrubby Bear, is back in town. Although Hurricane Charley sent Scrubby Bear into hibernation until the winds died down, he is excited to once again be visiting community elementary schools and spreading the word about the importance of living a safe and healthy lifestyle.

Scrubby is committed to bringing healthcare and safety down to a child's level. He and his team visit local elementary schools to make fun, interactive, and "edu-taining" presentations to students - programs such as "Germbusters," which teaches children the importance of hand washing, and "Stay Away From Boo-Boos," which teaches children about safety hazards, stranger danger, and what to do in an emergency.

Scrubby Bear also sponsors field trips to the hospitals, introducing children to the hospital's sights and sounds. In addition, two of the programs, "Injury Prevention" and "The Friendly Fireman" are put on in conjunction with County Fire & EMS. " County Fire & EMS has been wonderful to work with in creating these programs," said Danielle Dreher, Director of Marketing at RMC. "The kids just love learning all about 'the big red truck' and seeing a fireman dressed in full gear."

Regional Medical Center is a leading provider of healthcare in Southwest Alabama, providing healthcare far beyond the ordinary. To learn more about RMC's Scrubby Bear Ambassador Program, call 205-752-5050.

WOULDN'T YOU LIKE TO BE A GAITER TOO? MONTHLY MEMBER CHECK-UP AND SIGN IN ON APRIL 19 (4/06)
On Wednesday, April 19, the popular Crosstown Gaiters mall walking program sponsored by Regional Medical Center will hold its monthly member check-up and sign in at Port Town Center Mall. As a special treat, members will also have the option of having a mini body composition test performed for only $10.

The "course" at Town Center Mall is a ¾-mile trek with stops at 12 separate exercise and stretching stations. Upon joining Crosstown Gaiters, each participant receives a Crosstown Gaiters tee-shirt, pedometer, and guide identifying the benefits of walking, proposing tips for starting a walking program, and offering instruction on how to customize an individual walking program. Step into fitness with Crosstown Gaiters and have a little fun while you're at it!

HMA HOSPTIALS RANKED #1 BY FORTUNE (4/06)
Health Management Associates, the corporate healthcare company that owns Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa and Peace River Regional Medical Center in Port , was recently ranked #1 in the category of Health Care: Medical Facilities in America's Most Admired Companies 2006 ranking by Fortune.

According to Fortune, the Most Admired list is the definitive report card on corporate reputations. The ranking was based upon eight key attributes of reputation: innovation, employee talent, use of corporate assets, social responsibility, quality of management, financial soundness, long-term investment, and quality of products and services.

To create the industry list, Fortune's survey partners at Hav Group asked executives, directors, and analysts to rate companies in their own industry based upon the eight criteria. Only the best are listed as the most admired.

REGIONAL WELCOMES JOSEPH BERNARD, JR. AS ASSOCIATE ADMINISTRATOR (4/06)
Regional Medical Center welcomes Joseph Bernard, Jr. as Associate Administrator of the hospital. Bernard is responsible for overseeing physician recruitment, rehab services at RMC's Rehab and Wellness Center, and medical imaging services. In addition, Bernard will work closely with the CEO who oversees the pharmacy and also with the COO overseeing the hospital's operational aspects.

Serving in the United States Marine Corps since 1983, Bernard retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in July, 2003. Bernard brings with him a plethora of leadership skills and unique experiences that will be an asset to his position at Regional.

For four years in the mid-90s, Bernard served as the Presidential Aircraft Commander, Operations Officer, and Director of Safety and Standardization for Marine Helicopter Squadron One where he was responsible not only for flying the U.S. President and other dignitaries throughout the U.S. and the world, but also led the substantial flight scheduling effort, coordinated ground and aviation safety programs, and ensured everything was done in accordance with established standards and procedures.

From there, Bernard went on to serve as the Executive Assistant to the Director for Operations of the United States Pacific Command where he led a staff in detailed planning regarding issues pertinent to 43 nations. Bernard then went on to serve as Counterterrorism Liaison Officer for the CIA, representing the U.S. Pacific Command in the East Asia Division of the Operations Directorate, serving as a direct link between military staff and intelligence community to institute analytical methods and techniques for combating terrorism in the Pacific region.

Most recently, Bernard worked as Executive Officer and Chief of Staff for the Officer Candidates School in Quantico where he coordinated a large staff that trained and evaluated thousands of individuals per year to determine leadership potential for service as officers in the Marine Corps. He developed and implemented a strategic vision to increase flexibility and efficiency.

REGIONAL WELCOMES DR. RYE BELL AS ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR OF RIVERSIDE BEHAVIORAL CENTER (4/06)
Regional Medical Center welcomes Dr. Rye Bell, PhD as Administrative Director of Riverside Behavioral Center. Bell is responsible for Riverside's 52-bed psychiatric hospital and its array of inpatient and out patient services. The Center's programs include: inpatient adult and geriatric services, inpatient dual diagnosis treatment for people suffering from both chemical dependency and psychiatric disorders, outpatient partial hospital services, and aftercare groups.

Bell brings 28 years of management and clinical experience to Riverside. His past experiences include leadership positions in non-profit organizations, running a clinical practice, and Director of Behavioral Medicine for two hospitals and one hospital system. He is an ordained pastor and has held several license/certifications in the field of psychology.

While serving as the Director of Behavioral Medicine in Kentucky, his program was recognized as a Top 100 service lines, and the hospital was among the top 100 in the country. He has developed specialty units with psychiatric care for geriatric, bi-lingual (Spanish), and a Christian treatment tracks.

Bell holds a doctorate in philosophy from Oxford in Religion and Society with an emphasis in counseling. He holds his M.S.S.W. and a B.S. from the University of Tennessee. Bell is a member of Oxford's Society of Scholars and a Charter Member of the American Association of Christian Counselors.

HUSBAND AND WIFE SPORT MATCHING SCARS AFTER RECENT HEALTH ORDEAL (4/06)
Summer 2005 was winding down, and Paul and Anne Edrington had recently returned from an extended trip to the state of Washington where they visited their youngest son and his family. Married for nearly 50 years, the Edringtons celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary a little early last year. Although their Golden Anniversary wasn't until October 26, their son held a huge anniversary party for his parents during their vacation in Washington. Family and friends were all there to help them celebrate this milestone in their lives together. "Now we are glad we celebrated so early," says Anne. "Little did we know that if we had waited, we wouldn't be able to celebrate at all." "We were just as happy as could be," continues Paul. "We had no indication whatsoever that anything was wrong. Neither of us had been sick nor even felt ill."

In early October, Anne was excited to have a friend visit from out of town. Together, the two played a game of Mah Jong. When she got home, Anne told her husband that something was wrong. "She said, 'Paul, I couldn't remember the names of the cards. There has to be something wrong with me,'" says Paul. "So, we took out a deck of cards, and she couldn't identify a single card." Cards were something that Anne had been familiar with her entire life, yet she couldn't name a single one.

On the advice of her family doctor, Dr. Samuel Estepa, Anne had a CT scan of the brain. What the scan revealed was a walnut-sized tumor on the frontal lobe of the left side of Ann's brain. Anne was shocked. "It just kind of blows you away. What was really odd is that I had nothing wrong with me - nothing hurt - just a little thing with my memory. I've always been very healthy - no colds, no heart problems, no high blood pressure or cholesterol, no diabetes - not even a headache!" says Anne.

On October 10, Anne went to Regional Medical Center where Neurosurgeon Dr. Douglas Hershkowitz performed surgery to remove the brain tumor. The surgery went off without a hitch. However, Anne's surprising and traumatic experience was not over. The pathology report on the brain scan revealed that the cancer cells spread from the kidney to the brain. After learning this, the doctors performed a CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis in order to evaluate the kidneys. This scan showed a 6cm tumor on the right kidney.

Estepa then called in Urologist Dr. Marc Melser to evaluate Anne. Melser concluded that the tumor was renal cell carcinoma (cancer of the kidney). This tumor was indeed the primary or "original" site, and the lesion on the brain was a metastatic one. "This was an unusual case in many respects," said Melser. "First of all, renal cell carcinoma is not that common. Secondly, it is unusual that the renal tumor 'leap-frogged' and spread to her brain. Normally, tumors tend to spread to organs that are closer in proximity to the original tumor. So, the fact that it skipped her chest, her lungs, etc. and went directly to the brain is unusual."

Five days after he saw Anne, on October 18, Melser performed a hand-assisted laparoscopic right radical nephrectomy. This is a minimally invasive procedure to remove the entire kidney through a small incision. "Fortunately, the procedure was uneventful, and she discharged two days later," commented Melser. Everything went smoothly during Anne's post-operative coarse. As continued treatment for the brain lesion, Anne received 14 radiation therapy treatments. Her current scans show that she has no evidence of disease and is thus in remission.

The trauma for the Edringtons didn't end there, however. In late September of 2005, Paul had a stress test and other imaging. "I thought I'd passed that thing with flying colors. I was just going like mad on that treadmill! But, when I got the results back, they said I'd flunked the test," says Paul. When Cardiologist Dr. James Hearn found nothing wrong with his heart, he made Paul an appointment with Dr. Melser to evaluate a cyst on the kidney.

After his wife recovered from her surgeries, Paul visited Melser because the cyst was causing continual pain in his right side. "It hurt so badly that the pain would wake me up at night when I turned over in bed," says Paul. After studying the radiology reports, Melser determined that Paul's cyst - the size of a softball - was indeed the cause of his pain. "Many people have cysts," said Melser. "It's a very common finding on CT scans. However, this one was quite large, and Paul was experiencing symptoms and pain because of it."

So, in a procedure similar to the one his wife underwent only a month earlier, Melser performed a hand-assisted laparoscopic unroofing and drainage of the renal cyst on Paul. The similar procedures produced scars that are mirror images of one another. "Our incisions are in the same place, so we have matching incisions - matching scars!" boasts Paul.

Unlike his wife, Paul did have a post-operative problem when it was discovered he had an ileus. His intestines distended and went to sleep, causing a prolonged hospital stay. "Obviously, I wan't as good a patient as my wife," says Paul with a laugh. However, on a positive note, the pain is now gone and Paul lost some weight during the ordeal that he had been wanting to lose. "That's the only good part," he says trying to concentrate on something positive that came out of their ordeal. "I lost 18 pounds."

Glad to have all the trauma of the last six months now behind them, the Edringtons are enjoying every minute of every day. "It hit us out of the blue," said Paul. "It's been the worst six months of our lives." That's the thing that is most unbelievable to the pair - they had both been healthy their entire lives without any health problems, and neither was experiencing any symptoms that suggested a trip to the doctor was necessary.

Thankful for the physicians who treated them with such care, the Edringtons are eager to shower praise on everyone involved. " Regional and all of our physicians gave us marvelous care," said Paul as Anne nods in agreement. "We were impressed that for a small town this size, we have some of the best medical personnel in the United States."

ENDURING A SERIES OF TRAGEDIES, FRANCES ROMANO GETS HER VOICE BACK (4/06)
By all accounts, Frances Romano felt her life was blessed. Living in Port , she loved living around her daughter and two adorable grandchildren. Life was good. Then, in the fall of 2003, her doctor uttered the words that no one wants to hear, "You have cancer." Specifically, lung cancer. Not one to pity herself, Frances fought her disease and, on October 23 of that year, had the upper lobe of her left lung removed.

Unfortunately, her ordeal didn't end there. After the surgery, Frances found she could hardly speak. At first, her doctors in Fort Myers attributed her hoarse voice as a temporary result of the surgery, a side effect that would go away with time. However, months went by, and her voice didn't get any better; in fact, it worsened. "At times, she couldn't even breathe. She would say a few words, and then would be absolutely exhausted because she had no voice - it was such a strain for her to say anything," says daughter Lori Phillips, who stood by her mother throughout the ordeal.

Finally, Francis went to a local family medicine doctor, Dr. David McAtee, to get a second opinion. Dr. McAtee knew something wasn't right and referred her to Dr. Michael Stampar, a local Otolaryngologist (ENT), who diagnosed her as having a paralyzed left vocal cord. The cause? The surgery to rid her of the lung cancer had injured her nerves. As a result, her vocal cords were unable to be closed completely during surgery, causing air to leak out through the cords. The consequence was that Frances couldn't control the airflow through her vocal cords. She was always short of breath and found herself constantly gasping for air.

Frances relayed Stampar's findings to Dr. McAtee and Dr. Carlos Maas, her Pulmonologist. They encouraged her to revisit Stampar to see what he could do. "I didn't see what there was he could do for me - my vocal cord was paralyzed," says Frances. But, Stampar had hopeful news. After examining her, Stampar informed Frances that she would be a good candidate for a vocal cord implant - or thyroplasty. "He told me there was a good chance I would get my voice back," says Frances. "It was almost too good to be true." Although Frances' previous doctors in Fort Myers said there was no way she would ever speak again, Frances trusted her doctors here - McAtee, Maas, and Stampar.

In fact, although the procedure may not be well known, Stampar learned the procedure at Vanderbilt in 1999 and has performed 1-2 a year since then. He is the only local surgeon who performs this procedure using a hand-carved, custom implant, although other area doctors do perform the procedure using a standard, pre-formed implant. The benefit of a custom implant is that it gives the doctor and patient more options in obtaining a voice that sounds "just right."

After observing Frances for a year to ensure she was clear of the tumor, in January of this year, Stampar was ready to perform the implant. The surgery was scheduled to be performed at Regional Medical Center. By this time, Francis' voice was just a bare whisper, and she found it painful to speak. "She was losing so much oxygen when she spoke that she would have to go lie down after having only a short conversation," says Lori. "She looked as if she were physically deteriorating." " - And emotionally," Frances is quick to add. "I wouldn't go out; I didn't want to see anyone. Not only was it so hard for me to speak and move around, it was also so embarrassing for me."

One of the fascinating facts about the procedure is that the patient is awake and talking the entire time. Through a small hole made in the Adam's Apple, Stampar used a tool to manipulate Frances' vocal cords. He kept her talking so he could determine when her voice sounded normal again. Once her voice sounded right, Stampar hand-carved a custom implant and inserted it in her voice box. The implant is made of a plastic material. "I refer to this procedure as 'plastic surgery of the voice box,'" says Stampar. "It's a permanent improvement, and the results are immediate. The patient arrives with a breathy voice and leaves with a normal voice."

The procedure is completed in about three hours, and requires an overnight stay at the hospital. "This implant procedure is an option for people with vocal cord paralysis - whatever the source of that paralysis may be - or people with weak voices who don't have the lung reserve to pull the vocal cords together tight enough to generate a voice," says Stampar. Generally, patients get a little hoarse in the week immediately following surgery as the swelling from the surgery sets in, but it doesn't last long. In conjunction with the implant, most patients undergo speech therapy as well in order to overcome bad speech habits they learned while their voice was paralyzed.

After enduring two years and three months of not being able to speak normally, having a voice - her own voice - again is like a miracle to Francis. "I feel very lucky that I was sent to Dr. Stampar," says Frances, "without him, I wouldn't be talking today."

Although the past two years have been traumatic for Frances - being diagnosed with cancer, undergoing surgery, losing her voice, having an implant, and even losing her home in Hurricane Charley - she is once again hopeful for the future. Three months after the surgery, Frances is without any symptoms. "It seemed as if she had survived everything, but she wasn't sure if she could survive not being able to talk," says Lori with a little laugh.

"It's wonderful that I can talk with people," says Romano. "It's a shame that more people don't know about this procedure. I want everyone to know about this miracle implant."

Dr. Stampar's office is located at 610 E. Olympia Avenue. For more information on vocal cord implants, call Dr. Stampar at 205-752-5050.

MEDICAL MATTERS - REGIONAL'S NEW TALK RADIO SHOW (4/06)
Looking for a way to get more in tune with the latest information in healthcare? Listen to Regional's Medical Matters Radio Show, the live talk radio show that discusses a variety of healthcare topics from various guest speakers. To get tuned in, turn your radio dial to WCCF-1580 a.m. every Monday morning at 11:05 a.m.

Medical Matters is co-hosted by Dr. Christopher Constance, M.D., local plastic surgeon and Vice President of RMC's Medical Board, and Danielle Dreher, Director of Marketing at RMC. "There is so much going on in the healthcare industry. Technology is constantly changing, and what was the 'latest and greatest' in healthcare information or technology may be 'old news' only a year later. It is impossible for any one person to keep up with all the advances," says Dreher. "Medical Matters is our way of helping disseminate healthcare information and new advances in healthcare technology to the community."

Each week, the show has a featured guest. Popular guests include some of Southwest Alabama's leading physicians communicating new information about specific healthcare topics. In addition, one show highlighted County Fire and EMS and the different community safety and awareness programs they sponsor. "The show has something for everyone," says Dreher. "We are careful to schedule diverse topics of discussion so that every member of the community can learn something that is relevant to himself or to a family member."

The show encourages community members to call in during the show to ask questions of the guests. Used as a public awareness and educational tool, the featured physicians and other guests are experts in their respective fields, allowing community members instant access to pertinent information on a variety of healthcare issues.

To view a schedule of upcoming topics, visit wilson.fasthealth.com. Soon, the website will feature audio capabilities, enabling one to listen to a digital recording of each show via the website.

Turn your radio to 1580 a.m. every Monday at 11:05 a.m. and listen to Regional's Medical Matters Radio Show. Educate yourself on the healthcare topics relevant to you and your family. Tune in to what matters!

JOIN REGIONAL ON APRIL 20 FOR A TOPPING OUT CELEBRATION! (4/06)
On Thursday, April 20, Regional Medical Center will host a Topping Out Celebration at the new RMC Medical Office Building. The ceremony marks the completion of the steel skeleton of the new medical office building. Hurricane Charley destroyed the original building on August 13, 2004.

"The former office building was considered a landmark within the Tuscaloosa community," said Danielle Dreher, Director of Marketing and Public Relations at RMC. "During Hurricane Charley, it took the brunt of the storm. Officials have said that, had it not been for the medical office building, the hospital would have been severely damaged."

The damaged building was razed last fall, and construction on the new building began in January. The Topping-Out ceremony is considered a Scandinavian custom meant to bring good luck. During the celebration, attendees will be invited to sign a white-painted beam. Later that evening, the signed beam, along with a potted evergreen tree - also part of the custom - will be secured to the top of the roof. "The celebration will provide new hope for our staff and community," said Dreher.

A number of officials will be attending the event. The public is invited to join in the celebration, held at RMC's new medical office building located at 809 E. Marion Avenue in Tuscaloosa at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 20. No reservations required. A reception will follow in an adjacent tent, and attendees will receive a commemorative gift.

APRIL 28 SILENT AUCTION OF ART TO BENEFIT FOLLOW YOUR HEART TO HEALTH (4/06)
On Friday, April 28, Regional Medical Center is hosting a silent auction to promote Follow Your Heart to Health. The educational program, spearheaded by Dr. David Ruggieri and Olde Time Trolley owner Matt Nemick, promotes early heart health to local elementary school students. The goal of the program is to educate and promote exercise and healthy eating habits to children.

Up for auction are several pieces of one-of-a-kind artwork created by students from Deep Creek Elementary School. Kindergarten through third graders created paintings full of colorful hearts and signs of love. The matted paintings will be on display Friday in the main lobby at Regional Medical Center, and bids will be accepted throughout the afternoon and evening. Winners of the silent auction will be announced at a reception taking place that evening in RMC's main lobby from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. The general public is invited to attend.

Join us on Friday, April 28 from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. in the main lobby at Regional Medical Center for the silent auction and reception benefiting Follow Your Heart to Health.

DR. JAMES HEARN PERFORMS SOUTHWEST FLORIDA'S FIRST CAROTID ARTERY STENT AT REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER (3/06)
Recently, Dr. James Hearn, M.D. of Cardiology Associates in Port , performed Southwest Alabama's first carotid artery stent at Regional Medical Center. This new, high profile procedure was designed to decrease the incidence of stroke and provides an option for patients who are at high-risk for surgery and have 70% or greater blockage of the artery.

There are two carotid arteries - the main arteries in the neck running from the aorta to the brain. The carotid artery supplies blood to the brain. When the carotid is blocked by plaque build-up, a stroke may occur.

The carotid stent is a nitinol metal (a "memory metal" that can actually "remember" its shape), shaped stent placed, in a collapsed state, into the carotid artery. The stent is then released and self-expands, applying itself to the innermost wall of the artery. Because the stent is limited in strength, a balloon inflation is done inside the stent in order to make sure it is fully expanded and implanted in the artery. There are several different sizes of stents, including those that are tapered. "Typically, we insert a stent 1-2mm bigger than the artery," explains Hearn. "In case the artery opening is a little uneven, the stent will 'fill in' the gaps and oppose itself to the artery wall."

"Numerically, it's not a high-risk procedure. But, like in surgery, there is a risk of stroke," says Hearn. "To help with this, we insert an embolic protection device (EPD) - a little sock-like mechanism that allows very tiny particles to come through, but not anything of a size that would cause a stroke. The EPD will catch those larger particles. After insertion of the stent, we collapse the EPD and pull it out."

The stent placement takes about 1 hour, includes an overnight stay at the hospital, and requires a week's rehabilitation of non-strenuous activity.

The carotid artery stent is FDA approved for patients with symptoms where blockage is 70% or greater and who are at high-risk for surgery. Soon, it is expected to be approved for low-risk patients as well. "The data from the Sapphire Trials, the trials involving high-risk patients, was so positive that now we are just waiting for the studies involving low-risk patients to be completed," says Hearn. "We expect the results to be at least as good as the in the studies involving the high-risk patients."

In comparing the options, stent versus surgery, there is one main reason to opt for the stent. "Because the carotid surgery makes an incision in the high-neck area, there is an incidence of impaired nerve function in approximately 7% of the cases - usually a nerve palsy in some facial functions," says Hearn. "With the stent, there is almost never an incidence of nerve impairment because we don't operate in that area; we go up through the thigh." Currently, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) reimburses the patient only in those cases in which the patient is symptomatic, is high-risk for surgery, and has 70% or greater blockage. However, there have been some exceptions for less severe degrees of blockage and also for asymptomatic patients with blockages greater than 80%.

To determine if a stent is the solution, patients would first need to talk with their physician to determine if he or she is a candidate for the procedure. "Then," says Hearn, "we would determine whether to do an angiogram with a possible stent at the same time. There are a lot of non-invasive tests out there that are not precise. Carotid blockage is a precise business."

Of course, neither surgery nor stent is the answer for every patient warns Hearn. "A person should do an angiogram to determine the exact amount of blockage before opting for surgery. If the blockage is less than 50%, then neither surgery nor stent is the answer."

To learn more about Carotid Artery Stents and for the opportunity to have your questions answered, attend Dr. Hearn's lecture on the topic at RMC's Mini Medical School lecture series on Tuesday, March 14th at 2:45 p.m. The lecture will take place at Edison College Auditorium on Airport Road in Tuscaloosa. To register, call Nurse Connect at 205-752-5050.

MARCH 14th MINI MEDICAL SCHOOL LECTURE SERIES (3/06)
Start stocking your little black bag! Regional Medical Center presents its final Mini Medical School physician lecture series of the season.

Please join us for the lectures held on Tuesday, March 14, beginning at 1 p.m. and 2:45 p.m. at Edison College, classroom 102, located at 26300 Airport Road in Tuscaloosa. Dr. Elvin Mendez, M.D. will present a lecture titled "Spring is in Full Bloom - What is in the Air?" at 1 p.m. Then, at 2:45 p.m., Dr. James Hearn, M.D. will speak with participants about Carotid Artery Stents.

WOULDN'T YOU LIKE TO BE A GAITER TOO? MONTHLY MEMBER CHECK-UP AND SIGN IN ON MARCH 15 (3/06)

On Wednesday, March 15, the popular Crosstown Gaiters mall walking program sponsored by Regional Medical Center will hold it's monthly member check-up and sign in at Port Town Center Mall.

The "course" at Town Center Mall is a ¾-mile trek with stops at 12 separate exercise and stretching stations. Upon joining Crosstown Gaiters, each participant receives a Crosstown Gaiters tee-shirt and a pedometer to track steps. Perhaps most importantly, each participant also receives a booklet identifying the benefits of walking, proposing tips for starting a walking program, and offering instruction on how to customize a walking program designed specifically for that individual. Step into fitness with Crosstown Gaiters and have a little fun while you're at it!

FEBRUARY 14th MINI MEDICAL SCHOOL LECTURE SERIES (2/06)
Start stocking your little black bag! Regional Medical Center presents the return of its popular annual physician lecture series, Mini Medical School.

Educate yourself on the healthcare issues that are important to you. Mini Medical School physician lecture series features some of Southwest Alabama's leading physicians communicating new information about specific healthcare topics and addressing your concerns. There is no better way to become familiar with, understand, and learn more about today's healthcare issues relevant to you, your family members, and your community.

Please join us for the lectures held on Tuesday, February 14, beginning at 1 p.m. and 2:45 p.m. at Edison College's auditorium located at 26300 Airport Road in Tuscaloosa. Dr. Usha Chandrahasa, M.D. will present a lecture on Allergic Asthma at 1 p.m. Then, at 2:45 p.m., Dr. Andre Williams, D.P.M. will speak with participants about heel pain.

Regional Medical Center is a leading provider of healthcare in Southwest Alabama, providing healthcare far beyond the ordinary. Sign up for Mini Medical School today to learn important, life-changing information to store in your own "little black bag." To learn more about either of these topics, to sign up for the lecture series, or for a complete list of physician speakers, dates, and times, contact Nurse Connect at 205-752-5050.

WOULDN'T YOU LIKE TO BE A GAITER TOO?
MONTHLY MEMBER CHECK-UP AND SIGN IN ON FEBRUARY 15 (2/06)
On February 15, the popular Crosstown Gaiters mall walking program sponsored by Regional Medical Center will hold it's monthly member check-up and sign in at Port Town Center Mall. The program is designed to help you keep that New Year's Resolution to live a healthier lifestyle.

The "course" at Town Center Mall is a ¾-mile trek with stops at 12 separate exercise and stretching stations. Upon joining Crosstown Gaiters, each participant receives a Crosstown Gaiters tee-shirt and a pedometer to track steps. Perhaps most importantly, each participant also receives a booklet identifying the benefits of walking, proposing tips for starting a walking program, and offering instruction on how to customize a walking program designed specifically for that individual.

Each month, participants meet to "check-in" on their progress and take advantage of screenings and activities set up by Regional. On Wednesday, February 15, from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. in the lobby area at Port Town Center Mall, participants will receive blood pressure screenings, learn stretching exercise from athletic trainers, receive dietary education and information, and participate in a member walk for the chance to win awards. New participants are also welcome to sign up and join in on the fun while learning to live a healthier lifestyle. Step into fitness with Crosstown Gaiters and have a little fun while you're at it!

FEBRUARY 28th MINI MEDICAL SCHOOL LECTURE SERIES(2/06)
Start stocking your little black bag! Regional Medical Center presents the return of its popular annual physician lecture series, Mini Medical School.

Please join us for the lectures held on Tuesday, February 28, beginning at 1 p.m. and 2:45 p.m. at Edison College's auditorium located at 26300 Airport Road in Tuscaloosa. Dr. Steven Baker, M.D. will present a lecture on Computer Assisted Joint Replacement at 1 p.m. Then, at 2:45 p.m., Dr. Christopher Constance, M.D. will speak with participants about the latest procedures and techniques in cosmetic surgery and why you should choose a board certified plastic surgeon.

JANUARY 10th MINI MEDICAL SCHOOL LECTURE SERIES (1/06)
Start stocking your little black bag! Regional Medical Center presents the return of its popular annual physician lecture series, Mini Medical School.

Educate yourself on the healthcare issues that are important to you. Mini Medical School physician lecture series features some of Southwest Alabama's leading physicians communicating new information about specific healthcare topics and addressing your concerns. There is no better way to become familiar with, understand, and learn more about today's healthcare issues relevant to you, your family members, and your community.

Please join us for the lectures held on Tuesday, January 10, beginning at 1 p.m. and 2:45 p.m. at Edison College's auditorium located at 26300 Airport Road in Tuscaloosa. Dr. Douglas Hershkowitz, M.D. will present a lecture on lower back pain at 1 p.m. Then, at 2:45 p.m., Dr. Raymond Waters will speak with participants about advances in open heart surgery.

REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER PRESENTS EDISON COLLEGE WITH A $10,000 ENDOWMENT (1/06)
In honor of a man who was a champion for the construction of Tuscaloosa's first hospital (now known as Regional Medical Center) and a man who staunchly supported education in County, Regional opened a $10,000 endowment in the name of Leo Wotitzky to Edison Community College.

Although he later served as a board member at Regional, Wotitzky was working at the Tuscaloosa Herald in 1938 when he first began advocating for the construction of the hospital. It was with this same enthusiasm that Wotitzky fought for education and took a strong stance on education issues. "From the beginning, Leo Wotitzky has played a vital role in the growth of our hospital," said Dan Buckner, Executive Director and CEO at Regional. "It has been an honor to work alongside him over the years, and, because of that, it was important for us to honor him by supporting another cause for which he championed during his life."

The Edison College Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation chartered under Alabama Statutes to serve as a direct support organization of Edison College. Wotitzky was also instrumental in attracting a County campus of Edison College.

VERONICA TOYER HONORED AS REGIONAL'S EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR (1/06)
For ten years, Veronica Toyer has been serving up smiles to all who venture into Regional's Oasis Café. Now, this cafeteria cashier really has something about which to smile; Toyer was recently named Regional's Employee of the Year. "Veronica has outstanding customer service skills," said Win Kron, Nutritional Services Director. "She always does above and beyond upon what she's called upon to do."

Toyer, whose husband Roy works in surgery at RMC, was the perfect choice for Employee of the Year because she is known to bring smiles to the faces of everyone who comes into contact with her. Her coworkers say that she looks for the good in everyone and always keeps up her positive outlook on life, even in stressful situations. "She does it all, and she does it all beautifully," said Ruthanne Goodby, Lead Cashier. "She displays outstanding integrity and loyalty and is a genuine pleasure to have on our team."

DALTON TININENKO AWARDED DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR HONORS AT REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER (1/06)
Dalton Tininenko has risen through the ranks at Regional Medical Center from staff employee to Director of Admissions and Business Development for Riverside Behavioral Center. Recently, Tininenko was honored for his hard work and dedication by being named 2005 Director of the Year. "He is a very hands-on manager who will come in to assist his staff whether he is on call or not," said Stephen Albrecht, Administrator of Riverside Behavioral Center.

Tininenko is an active member of the community representing Riverside to other area hospitals, nursing homes, community groups, and physician offices. His proactive, community-based approach has earned him a reputation of being an honest, credible individual with a broad behavioral health knowledge base.

"Dalton is reliable, hardworking, and well liked by patients, staff, and physicians," noted Albrecht. "As a person, his integrity is unquestionable and his drive is unmatched. He is a large part of Riverside's success."

REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER HONORS APRIL LOUEY AS NURSE OF THE YEAR (1/06)
April Louey, who was recently promoted to Nurse Manager of ICU at Regional Medical Center, earned top honors as 2005 Nurse of the Year. "April is a 'can do' and a 'will do' professional. She mentors nurses coming into ICU and is an excellent clinical nurse," said Peggy Greene, Director of Nursing at RMC.

Louey co-chaired RMC's initiative in developing a proposal for a certified stroke program, spearheaded the return of a multidisciplinary committee to enhance standards in critical care areas, and is a positive and active member of the Recruitment and Retention Committee. "She is a refreshing asset," noted Greene.

THE WELLNESS CENTER HEALTH CLUB PROMOTES SPECIAL PRICING: $90 FOR 90 DAYS (1/06)
Get in shape for the New Year! The Wellness Center at Regional, Tuscaloosa's only wellness fitness center that concentrates on your overall wellness, is determined to help you keep your New Year's Resolution. While many people are concerned with their weight or how they look in certain clothes, the fitness team at the Wellness Center at RMC is concerned with an individual's overall well being. Their team of certified athletic trainers, certified aerobic instructors, and exercise technicians are available to help you get on the right track to a healthier lifestyle.

For just $90, new members can enjoy 90 days (three months) of membership with no enrollment fee. Sit down with a trainer and create a fitness program designed specifically for you. The fitness center offers a full shower facility and lockers. Also included in membership are aerobics classes including Pilates, yoga, strength training, stretch and toning, kickboxing, boot camp, and core strengthening. The weight room features a top of the line 16-station Cybex Magnum Mix, including a full-size free weight room and free weight benches. There are also three ellipticals, two upper body rowers, eight treadmills, two Stairmasters, four Airdynes and three recumbent bikes. For a small extra charge, the Fitness Center also offers bone density testing, infrared body composition testing, and arterial elasticity testing.

Take advantage of the gym at the Wellness Center, located at 1001 23rd Avenue Suite C. Get started today on the path to a healthier you! For more information, call The Wellness Center at 205-752-5050.

REGIONAL INCORPORATES VALET PARKING AND CONCIERGE DESK (1/06)
There have been a lot of renovations going on at Regional over the past few months, all in the name of improving customer service to patients and their families. "Our goal is to stay ahead of the important trends that bring new and innovative services to our patients," said Dan Buckner, RMC's CEO. The latest addition is the incorporation of valet parking and a lobby located concierge desk.

Located between the main entrance of the hospital and the Outpatient/Emergency entrances, valet parking is a free, no tipping service offered to all hospital patients and their guests.

The newly incorporated Concierge Desk is located in the main lobby and offers personal services to patients and family members. "Our hope is that our patients will have access to luxury services that will make their stay more pleasant," stated Buckner. Just Ask…Concierge Services offers patient in-room services such as hair care, manicures, pedicures, personal needs, and so much more…just ask. The concierge may also assist with patient/family communication and updates, coordinate personal needs, and act as the patient's liaison. "We will assist our patients and their family in any way possible," said Cyndy Johnstone, Director of Special Services for Just Ask...

JANUARY 31st MINI MEDICAL SCHOOL LECTURE SERIES (1/06)
Start stocking your little black bag! Regional Medical Center presents the return of its popular annual physician lecture series, Mini Medical School.

Educate yourself on the healthcare issues that are important to you. Mini Medical School physician lecture series features some of Southwest Alabama's leading physicians communicating new information about specific healthcare topics and addressing your concerns. There is no better way to become familiar with, understand, and learn more about today's healthcare issues relevant to you, your family members, and your community.

Please join us for the lectures held on Tuesday, January 31, beginning at 1 p.m. and 2:45 p.m. at Edison College's auditorium located at 26300 Airport Road in Tuscaloosa. Dr. Mark Davis, M.D. will present a lecture on treatment of arthritic joints at 1 p.m. Then, at 2:45 p.m., Dr. Raymond Waters will speak with participants about transmyocardial laser revascularization, an adjunct to coronary bypass.

STEPPING INTO FITNESS: CROSSTOWN GAITERS
MONTHLY MEMBER CHECK-UP AND SIGN IN ON JANUARY 26 (1/06)
On January 26, the popular Crosstown Gaiters mall walking program sponsored by Regional Medical Center will hold it's monthly member check-up and sign in at Port Town Center Mall. The program is designed to help you keep that New Year's Resolution to live a healthier lifestyle.

The "course" at Town Center Mall is a ¾-mile trek with stops at 12 separate exercise and stretching stations. Upon joining Crosstown Gaiters, each participant receives a Crosstown Gaiters tee-shirt and a pedometer to track steps. Perhaps most importantly, each participant also receives a booklet identifying the benefits of walking, proposing tips for starting a walking program, and offering instruction on how to customize a walking program designed specifically for that individual.

Each month, participants meet to "check-in" on their progress and take advantage of screenings and activities set up by Regional. On Thursday, January 26, from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. in the lobby area at Port Town Center Mall, participants will receive blood pressure screenings, learn stretching exercise from athletic trainers, receive dietary education and information, and participate in a member walk for the chance to win awards. New participants are also welcome to sign up and join in on the fun while learning to live a healthier lifestyle. Step into fitness with Crosstown Gaiters and have a little fun while you're at it!