1. health and fitness

Hallmark Health System
Magazine
Fall 2014
importance
primary care
The
of
From the CEO
Thank you for taking the time to read through the fall issue of
Hallmark Health System Magazine. I hope that you and your
loved ones enjoyed all that the summer had to offer and stayed
healthy while doing so.
In this issue, we highlight the importance of primary care.
Our primary care physicians offer a special level of care and
services focused on the personal needs of their patients.
Building a strong relationship with your primary care
physician is important to ensure that you are getting the most
from the comprehensive services we offer. By teaming up with
your primary care physician, you can take an active role in
your own care.
Also in this issue, learn about the Hallmark Health System
Vein Center at Melrose-Wakefield Hospital, our awardwinning mobile food market and more. These stories are just a
small sample of the robust community programs and services
Hallmark Health System offers the region.
If you are already a patient of Hallmark Health System, I
thank you for entrusting us with your care. If not, I urge you
to consider checking out our website to learn more or come
for a visit to see what we are all about. Our organization is full
of dedicated physicians, nurses, therapists and support staff
who come to work each day intent on making a difference and
helping people. Whether it’s for a quick outpatient visit or a
long hospital stay, our staff is here to help you. We hope you
will give Hallmark Health System the privilege of serving you
and your family.
To learn more, please visit www.hallmarkhealth.org.
Michael V. Sack, FACHE
President and Chief Executive Officer
Hallmark Health System
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Hallmark Health System Magazine | Fall 2014| www.hallmarkhealth.org
Primary care
plays primary
role in keeping
patients healthy
Primary care physicians are key partners in patients’
health. By jointly developing individualized care plans,
primary care physicians engage patients in taking an
active role in their own care.
They do this in three key ways:
coordinating care, maintaining
a comprehensive repository of
patient records, and offering
long-term management of
chronic conditions. Houtan
Golzari, MD, an internist in
the Revere office of Hallmark
Houtan Golzari, MD
Health Medical Associates
(HHMA), agreed and said that
his role in keeping patients healthy includes prevention as well
as diagnosis and treatment.
“An important prevention measure, in addition to routine
physical examinations, is to work with my patients to
ensure they receive all recommended tests, screenings and
immunizations based on their age and family history,” he said.
“I also assist my patients who smoke to quit.”
y
g
hy
And what is the secret to a good relationship between
patients and their primary care physicians? “Providing
quality care and having respect for patients and their
families,” he added.
About Hallmark Health Medical Associates
Hallmark Health Medical Associates (HHMA) comprises
more than 70 physicians and nurse practitioners in
family medicine and internal medicine plus specialties
including obstetrics/gynecology, gastroenterology, surgery,
endocrinology, hematology/oncology and infectious
disease. HHMA has 23 offices in nine northern Boston
suburbs: Malden, Medford, Melrose, Reading, Revere,
Saugus, Somerville, Stoneham and Winthrop. HHMA is
part of Hallmark Health System, which includes Lawrence
Memorial Hospital of Medford, Melrose-Wakefield
Hospital and Hallmark Health VNA and Hospice.
SCHEDULE APPOINTMENTS ONLINE WITH ZOCDOC
Hallmark Health Medical Associates (HHMA) now
offers online appointment-scheduling through
ZocDoc. Online scheduling offers many advantages
for patients, including:
1. Convenience. Patients can schedule an
appointment 24/7 rather than having to call
during busy office hours.
2. Reminders. Appointments are added to a
patient's electronic calendar and email and text
reminders are sent.
3. Access and timeliness. Patients can view
appointment availability and schedule times
convenient for them.
“Our offices field more than 130,000 calls a
year for scheduling,” said Rob Wasserman,
HHMA chief operating officer. “Patients who
use ZocDoc can streamline the process for
themselves, and fewer scheduling calls into our
offices mean better access for patients who
call us for other reasons.”
To learn more, visit www.hhma.org.
Hallmark Health System Magazine | Fall 2014| www.hallmarkhealth.org
3
Vein Center takes
comprehensive
view of varicose
vein diagnosis
and treatment
Varicose veins are quite common. Between 15 and 20
percent of all adults have them. In people (particularly
women) over 50, the incidence jumps to 50 percent.
Many people consider varicose veins to be a cosmetic problem.
If left untreated, however, they can lead to leg swelling and
pain, blood clots, skin changes such as discoloration or
thickening and, occasionally, open sores (ulcerations) that do
not heal.
The Hallmark Health System (HHS) Vein Center at MelroseWakefield Hospital diagnoses and treats the full spectrum of
venous diseases. Leading the Vein Center team are two highly
qualified interventional radiologists – Neil Denbow, MD,
and Wayne Wivell, MD – who have extensive experience in
treating venous disease. In fact, Denbow is one of the pioneers
in the utilization of minimally invasive technology to treat
varicose veins.
The rest of the treatment team includes experienced
nurses, vascular ultrasound technologists and a patient
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liaison/navigator who work together to provide highly
coordinated care. “Because of our team approach and our
focus on coordination of care through our patient navigator,
we are able to see patients quickly,” said Karen Kelleher,
administrative director of the Vein Center.
The HHS Vein Center is distinguished by its comprehensive
focus, from initial diagnosis through a range of minimally
invasive treatment options. For each patient, an ultrasound
confirms the diagnosis of venous disease, necessary paperwork
and insurance approval are processed by the patient liaison and
the appropriate minimally invasive treatment option is offered.
Potential non-surgical treatment options include catheter
ablation, injection sclerotherapy and ambulatory phlebectomy
– all same-day treatments. “In all cases, our goal is to provide
the most effective, long-lasting and minimally invasive
treatment options for our patients,” said Denbow.
To learn more about the center, visit www.
hallmarkhealth.org and select “Programs.”
Hallmark Health System Magazine | Fall 2014| www.hallmarkhealth.org
In her
own words
Sandra Reyes, 44
Malden
This summer I went in for my annual mammogram at MelroseWakefield Hospital. I do it every year, but the appointment is
made so far in advance that I don’t give it much thought until the
night before or day of. That was the case this time, too.
What was different this time, however, was I got a call soon
after my appointment saying the mammogram detected an
abnormality and I needed to come back for an ultrasound.
This time I would be seen at the Comprehensive Breast Center
in Stoneham. They were able to give me an appointment the
next day, which was great and really helped ease my growing
concerns and anxiety.
From the second I walked into the center I was impressed. The
staff was amazing and went over everything, step-by-step, and
made me feel very comfortable. I had the ultrasound, which
also showed an abnormality so an appointment for a needle
biopsy was made. Again, the center was able to give me an
appointment within the week, which was great. You don’t want to
have to wait for these things.
‘They were
thoughtful,
caring and
made me feel
special.’
When I came back to the center I was nervous. I met with Dr.
Olga Efimova before the procedure. She went over everything
and assured me she’d take care of me. That really struck a chord
with me and put me at ease. She was so good at explaining what
was going to happen.
During the biopsy, I got really anxious and felt like I was going to
be sick or pass out. I voiced this to Dr. Efimova and she talked me
through it and reassured me I would be OK. It was incredible how
well she handled it. She came to see me out in the waiting area
afterward to make sure I was OK and the staff even followed up
with a phone call later that day. They were thoughtful, caring and
made me feel special.
The needle biopsy showed I had a fibroadenoma, which
thankfully is not cancerous. They tagged the area and I will go
back in a few months for follow up. I cannot say enough about
the Hallmark Health System Comprehensive Breast Center. I tell
everyone I know about my experience. I have only good things
to say about the care I received there.
Comprehensive Breast Center • 781-224-5806
Hallmark Health System Magazine | Fall 2014| www.hallmarkhealth.org
5
Meet
Jennifer Lin, DO
What motivated you to become a doctor?
Growing up in a family of doctors, it wasn’t hard to become
curious about life sciences at a very early age. My general
surgeon grandfather’s idea of babysitting was taking me on
rounds with him at the hospital. While in college I did medical
research and volunteered at my own family doctor’s office. I
quickly realized that I loved interacting and connecting with a
wide variety of people.
Why did you choose to specialize in family
medicine?
While in medical school, I realized I love to see patients of
all ages from newborns to geriatrics. I really enjoy treating
an entire multi-generation family, watching the kids grow
and also being there for whatever aging has to bring. I am
osteopathically trained and I believe in seeing the body as a
whole and not focusing on just one of its parts.
Why do you choose to practice at Hallmark
Health?
Hallmark Health is known for its high level of medical
care and high patient satisfaction. Also, after finishing my
residency, it was important to me to find an institution
that supports practicing full-scope family medicine with
osteopathic manipulation. I look forward to working with my
new colleagues and starting my new practice in Malden with
Hallmark Health.
What is the most rewarding part of being a
physician?
There are many rewards that make the long hours worth it.
One of the most satisfying experiences of primary care is being
able to prevent progression of diseases and discover illnesses
soon enough to make a difference.
If you could have lunch with anyone, who
would it be?
The “Despicable Me” Minions – they make me smile no matter
what.
What do you do for fun when you aren’t
caring for your patients?
In the summer my husband and I like traveling, kayaking or
hiking. In the winter we’ll be hitting the slopes on our skis.
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Hallmark Health System Magazine | Fall 2014 | www.hallmarkhealth.org
Meet
Bindiya Thakkar, MD
What motivated you to become a doctor?
My dad wanted to be a doctor. So the initial inspiration came
from him. Then through some childhood experiences, I came
across doctors who were not only great physicians, but great
people and loved what they did. I wanted to become like them.
Why did you choose to specialize in
endocrinology?
I find endocrinology to be a very fun and stimulating field; it’s
like constantly solving puzzles. It’s very rewarding both for the
patient and the physician once the pieces are all together.
Why do you choose to practice at Hallmark
Health?
I wanted be a part of an organization that gave compassionate
and quality care to their patients, and Hallmark Health is just
that.
What is the most rewarding part of being a
physician?
The satisfaction and joy that comes with making patients’ quality
of life better.
If you could have lunch with anyone, who
would it be?
My husband. Our 22-month-old twins keep us very busy…
What do you do for fun when you aren’t
caring for your patients?
Cooking or spending time with family.
Hallmark Health System Magazine | Fall 2014 | www.hallmarkhealth.org
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Mobile market
offers fresh,
healthy food
to families
in need
It’s like a farmer’s market. Only it’s free to hundreds of families in Malden, Medford, Everett and surrounding
communities who experience food insecurity. In these three cities alone, it’s estimated that more than 16,000 people are
food insecure, which means they don’t have reliable access to enough affordable and nutritious food.
For the past two years, Hallmark Health System (HHS) and the Greater Boston Food Bank (GBFB) have sponsored a
mobile food market at the North Suburban Women, Infant and Children (WIC) office on Commercial Street in Malden.
The GBFB is the program’s lead partner, providing and delivering the food, supplies and materials, conducting basic foodservice training and tracking data. Other partners include the Malden Zonta Club, a community service organization
whose volunteers accept and sort the food, and the City of Malden, which provides
police details to help with traffic management.
Items in a recent
The market is open from 1-2 p.m. on the second Saturday of each month and serves 600700 families. But long before that, volunteers are sorting and counting food and setting
up the market. Nutritionists from the WIC program, staff and interpreters are on hand to
answer questions. Often, HHS staff come to offer health education or a free screening.
“Although the market’s primary purpose is providing free healthy, fresh, nutritious food,
we also try to help with other issues and connect participants to needed resources,” said
Eileen Dern, RN, HHS director of Community Services. “For example, last fall we
administered 150 flu vaccines and many participants said this was the first time they’d
ever gotten a flu shot.”
The market has received statewide and national recognition – a Healthy Communities
award from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and a “Program of Promise”
Service Award from Jackson Healthcare.
But it’s the recognition from mobile food market shoppers that’s more important to Dern.
“One mom told me the food she gets at the market can feed her family for several days.
A man with diabetes told me having healthy food helps him keep on track. Others have
said they couldn’t afford to buy fresh fruit and vegetables. We see this as a different way to
approach health, to connect to the community, and to fill a need.”
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Hallmark Health System Magazine | Fall 2014| www.hallmarkhealth.org
mobile food market
“shopping cart” for
a family of four:
Yogurt
Juice boxes
Flatbread
Lima beans
Grapefruit
Oranges
Sweet potatoes
Potatoes
Onions
Cabbage
Apples
Stride for Healthy
Communities a success
Hallmark Health System employees and supporters came out on a sunny Saturday morning in June for the Stride for
Healthy Communities at Lake Quannapowitt in Wakefield. The event featured a three-mile walk around the lake and
family-fun activities. This year’s event raised more than $25,000 for cancer care, cardiology programs, emergency services
and the North Suburban Child and Family Resource Network. The walk is planned again for Saturday, June 6, 2015, at
Lake Quannapowitt.
Thank you to our sponsors:
Hallmark Health System
Medical Staff
Jennifer S. Wu, M.D.
Action Ambulance Service, Inc.
Boston Medical Center HealthNet Plan
Melrose Cooperative Bank
New England Coffee
Optum
Promotional Solutions, Inc.
Right at Home North of Boston
Local. Social. Connected to the Community.
Another way we can be your community health resource – join the conversation on
Hallmark Health social media.
www.facebook.com/HallmarkHealth
@HallmarkHealth
Hallmark Health System Magazine | Fall 2014| www.hallmarkhealth.org
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Ask the Physician Assistant
What should I do if I’m stung by a bee?
Bee stings can cause a wide range of reactions. Typically, the reaction is mild with
instant burning at the site, temporary pain, localized redness and swelling. Some people
may have a moderate reaction causing increased redness and swelling for a couple of
days. People who have severe allergies to bees may develop a rash covering their bodies,
have difficulty breathing, experience swelling of the throat and tongue and nausea/
vomiting. They may even lose consciousness.
Treatment
If your reaction is mild or moderate, remove the stinger by scraping it off the skin with
a credit card or something similar. Don’t pinch the stinger. This will inject more bee
venom. Then wash the area with soap and water. Apply ice or a cool compress to help
with the discomfort. If the area becomes itchy, apply topical hydrocortisone cream (from
your local pharmacy) or take Benadryl.
Aimee Mitchell, PA, Urgent Care
For people with more severe reactions, a bee sting could be life-threatening. Carry an
Epi-Pen and use it if stung, then call 9-1-1.
For people with more severe
reactions, a bee sting could be lifethreatening. Carry an Epi-Pen and
use it if stung, then call 9-1-1.
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Hallmark Health System Magazine | Fall 2014| www.hallmarkhealth.org
What if I find a tick on me?
Ticks usually appear in eastern Massachusetts from April to
September. When walking in a wooded area or an area with tall
grass, wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts, and apply insect
repellant that contains DEET. Once indoors, check your entire
body including your hair. Don’t forget to look in the armpits,
groin, between your toes and behind your knees where ticks often
like to hide.
If you find a tick, remove it as soon as possible, using tweezers
that have a very fine tip. Grasp the tick’s head as close to the skin
as possible and pull straight back. Do the same for any remaining
small pieces of the tick. Then clean the area with soap and water.
Although most ticks are harmless, a few types can cause blood
illnesses including Lyme disease.
Follow up in the Urgent Care Center if you:
• develop a rash where the tick was found
• have sore muscles and joints
• develop fever or fatigue
• believe the tick has been embedded for more than 24 hours.
Symptoms of the rash are:
• red streaks and patches
• itchiness
• blisters with weeping then
yellow crusting
• minor swelling.
If you do develop a rash,
you can help relieve
the itching with cool
compresses, topical
calamine or hydrocortisone creams and antihistamine medications
such as Benadryl (all can be bought at your local pharmacy). Avoid
scratching the rash and opening any blisters that may have formed.
Seek medical assistance if you:
• have difficulty breathing or swallowing
• experience swelling around the eyes
• have a rash that covers most of the body, face or genitals
• see increased redness, drainage or pain around the rash
• run a fever.
I think I have poison ivy.
Poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac are found in
Massachusetts. They produce the same oil, urushiol, which can
cause a rash in up to 85 percent of people.
Hallmark Health Urgent Care
Locations
There are three ways you can come in contact with the oil:
1. touch the plant directly
2. touch a pet, gardening tool or other object that has come
into contact with the plant oil
3. through the air, if plant material is being burned in
the vicinity.
Lawrence Memorial Hospital
Medford
170 Governors Avenue
Next to the Emergency Department
Exit 33 off Route 93
After contact, wash with soap and water. Also, wash all clothing
worn and any tools/objects.
781-306-6100
The rash usually appears one or two days after exposure to the
plant oil.
Hallmark Health Medical Center
Reading
30 Newcrossing Road
Exit 39 off Route 128
781-213-5500
Hallmark Health System Magazine | Fall 2014| www.hallmarkhealth.org
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NON-PROFIT
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
N. READING, MA
PERMIT NO. 211
Hallmark Health System
170 Governors Ave.
Medford, MA 02155-1643
www.hallmarkhealth.org
Hallmark Health System Magazine is published by the Marketing & Communications
Department of Hallmark Health System.
The information in this magazine is not a substitute for medical advice or professional
medical care. If you have a question about your health, please consult your physician.
If you do not wish to receive this magazine, please call (781) 338-7243 and ask to be
removed from our mailing list.
Photo credits: Janet Stearns, cover, 2-3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10
Lawrence Memorial Hospital of Medford | Melrose-Wakefield Hospital (Melrose) | Hallmark Health System Hematology & Oncology Center (Stoneham)
The CHEM Center for MRI (Stoneham) | The CHEM Center for Radiation Oncology (Stoneham) | Hallmark Health Medical Center (Reading)
Hallmark Health VNA and Hospice | Lawrence Memorial/Regis College Nursing and Radiography Programs (Medford) | Hallmark Health Medical Associates, Inc.
New
Physicians
For more information on these physicians,
search the online directory.
Sarah Blake, MD
Pain Management
Melrose
781-662-7246
Jacob A. Howe, MD
Psychiatry
Medford
781-338-7270
Partha Sinha, MD
Endocrinology
Melrose
781-979-3400
Houtan Golzari, MD
Internal Medicine
Revere
781-286-1313
Jennifer Lin, DO
Family Medicine
Malden
781-321-3422
Kristin Smith, MD
Breast Surgery
Stoneham
781-279-1123
Winston Harper, DPM
Podiatry
Reading
781-944-4044
Jingli Ma, MD
Critical Care
Melrose-Wakefield
Hospital
781-979-3000
Bindiya Thakkar, MD
Endocrinology
Melrose
781-979-3400