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Bridgton Hospital presented its most recent Daisy Award to Carolyn Brewer-Dube, R.N., a nurse in the oncology clinic. Carolyn was specifically honored for exemplary commitment to her oncology patients, specifically cited by her two nominations to receive this award. A resident of Raymond, Ms. Brewer-Dube has been employed at Bridgton Hospital, in the oncology clinic, since 2004.

What is The Daisy Award at Bridgton Hospital? The DAISY Award honorees personify Bridgton Hospital’s remarkable patient experience. DAISY Award nurses consistently demonstrate excellence through their clinical expertise and extraordinary compassionate care, and they are recognized as outstanding role models in our nursing community.

The DAISY Award is an international program that rewards and celebrates nurses with both extraordinary clinical skills and compassion. Bridgton Hospital is proud to be a DAISY Award Partner and presents the award quarterly during the year.

Ms. Brewer-Dube, as a DAISY Award Honoree, was presented a bouquet of daisies, a DAISY certificate, a DAISY Award pin, and a hand-carved stone sculpture entitled A Healer’s Touch. She also has a dedicated parking spot on campus. Additionally, everyone in attendance celebrated with specially made cinnamon rolls. The significance of the cinnamon rolls is that Mr. Barnes especially enjoyed sharing cinnamon rolls with his nurses, and his family felt this should be a part of the ceremonies across the country. Ms. Pytel will also have a dedicated parking spot for the next three months on the hospital campus.

The DAISY Foundation was established in Glen Ellen, California, in 1999 by the family of J. Patrick Barnes who died of complications of the auto-immune disease Idiopathic Thrombocytopenia Purpura (ITP) at the age of 33. (DAISY is an acronym for diseases attacking the immune system.) During Mr. Barnes eight week hospitalization, his family was awestruck by the care and compassion his nurses at his hospital provided not only to him but to everyone in his family. So one of the goals they set in creating a Foundation in his memory was to recognize extraordinary nurses everywhere who make an enormous difference in the lives of so many people by the super-human work they do every day. In the fall of 2011, Bridgton Hospital joined The Daisy Foundation and hospitals across the country, in recognizing their nurses through this exceptional award.

05/17/2013

Bridgton Hospital Nurse Attends Blaine House Reception In Recognition of National Nurses Week

In recognition of National Nurses Week, Jill Rollins, RN, Acute Care Director, and Ann Kurnick, RN, Inpatient Nurse, attended The Blaine House, Augusta, reception and tea for Maine’s nurses on Tuesday, May 7. An annual event sponsored by the Governor during this special recognition week, Bridgton Hospital nominates one nurse each year to attend the day with the manager of the selected individuals department.

The theme this year for the event is ‘Delivery Quality and Innovation in Patient Care’ and it is sponsored by the Coalition of Maine Nursing Organizations.

05/08/2013

Bridgton Hospital Announces 2013 Winnie R. Moore RN Nurse of the Year Award Recipient

In honor of National Nursing Week, Jill Rollins RN, Director of Acute Care, has today announced the 2013 recipient of the Winnie R. Moore, R.N., Clinical Nursing Award.

The 2013 winner is Nicole (Nicki) Van Loan, RN, Emergency Department Clinical Coordinator. The medical staff of Bridgton Hospital determines the award.

According to Ms. Rollins, “In 1995, Nicki started working at Bridgton Hospital in the medical/surgery unit. However, she quickly moved to our labor and delivery area where she worked for many years. She has taken on roles that have included ambulatory surgery, emergency services, supervision and urgent care. In addition, she worked fulltime at Bridgton Obstetrics and Gynecology. This past February, Nicki took on her most recent role as the ED clinical coordinator. She continues to develop her skills not only clinically but within a leadership role.

Nicki is well known and respected for her skills and knowledge of nursing practice and her ability to remain the voice or reason in all circumstances. She has a keen ability to critically think in the most chaotic of situations. While all of these things are critical to being an excellent nurse, and is a large part of why Nicki was chosen to receive this award, it is not without recognition that her positive attitude is bigger than life. She always has a smile on her face and sees the best in every situation. That can-do positive attitude is infectious and is what so many of her peers and our patients love best about her.”

Eric Gerchman, M.D., President of the Bridgton Hospital Medical Staff, made the presentation. Ms. Van Loan was presented an engraved commemorative Revere pewter bowl. In addition, Lisa Charette-Heroux, the 2012 Winnie R. Moore Nurses Award recipient, handed down a candle in a simple wood candleholder representative of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing and the “Lady with the Lamp.” In addition, her name will be added to the permanent plaque located on the Kendal and Anna Ham Inpatient Wing of the hospital.

05/08/2013

Bridgton Hospital Hosts Reading is Fun Book Sale May 8 and 9

Bridgton Hospital will be the site of the popular ‘Books Are Fun’ book sale on Wed., May 8, 10AM to 4PM, and Thurs. May 9, 7AM to 3PM. The sale will be held in the main lobby of the South High Street hospital. Checks, cash and charges are welcome!

Books Are Fun brings great books, and gifts, at amazing prices to customers across the country. Prices are 30% to 70% off retail. They are on-site at the hospital only twice a year, spring and fall. The sale is also a fundraiser, providing a percentage of the sale profits to the Bridgton Hospital Annual Fund. The Bridgton Hospital Annual Fund provides the not-for-profit hospital with support benefitting all areas of the 25-bed, critical access hospital, including the purchase of capital equipment.

05/08/2013

Bridgton Hospital Diabetes Clinic to Offer Diabetes Education Program

The Bridgton Hospital Diabetes Clinic will sponsor its four-part Diabetes Education Program on May 20, 23, 30 and June 3 from 6PM to 8PM. The sessions will be held in the Bridgton Hospital Boardroom.

Bridgton Hospital has received the prestigious American Diabetes Association Education Recognition Certificate for a quality diabetes self‑management education program.

The series requires physician referral and early registration is suggested due to its popularity (class size is limited to assure personal attention). Topics covered include: the importance of exercise and physical activity, healthy meal plans and diabetes, hypoglycemia signs and symptoms, medications to control diabetes, complications and diabetes, diabetes and eye care, and diabetes and proper foot care. Medicaid and most insurance plans cover the course registration fee.

In addition to Elaine Drew, RN/CDE, CFCN a registered nurse who is also a certified diabetes nurse educator (CDE) and Certified Foot Care Nurse (CFCN), lecturers will include Linda Russell, MA, RD/LD, CDE, Registered Dietician, Dr. Thomas Gordon, Optometrist, and Karen Bogdan, OT, Occupational Therapist. These classes are designed to give general information about diabetes and help the patient manage their diabetes. The course also introduces patients to a diabetes support system. A dietary consultation is required, and should be done before the classes begin. Please contact Linda Russell, RD/LD,CDE at 647-6062 to schedule an appointment for this consultation.

Participants are encouraged to bring a relative or a friend with them. For more information about the program or to register call 207-647-6064, Elaine Drew, RN/CDE/CDFN.

04/29/2013

Bridgton Hospital Guild Thrift Shop Features Red Hat Society Inventory May 24-June1

The Bridgton Hospital Guild Thrift Shop, conveniently located in downtown Bridgton, adjacent to Reny’s, is featuring a huge supply of Red Hat Society items on sale from May 24 through June 1. The shop is open Monday through Friday, 10AM to 4PM and Sat., 10AM to 1PM.

The Red Hat Society is the largest social organization in the world, and is a place where woman over 50 (and before) ‘live life to the fullest’. Founded in 1998, there are over 40,000 chapters in the United States and 30 other countries.

The Red Hat Society’s primary purpose is social interaction and bonding among women. The ‘official’ Red Hat Society Day is celebrated on April 25th each year!

The Bridgton Hospital Guild Thrift Shop is managed by Guild volunteer Emily Hammerlee. Emily, along with her dedicated volunteer staff, assure that items are clean, pressed, attractively displayed, and affordably priced for all family members. Funds raised ultimately benefit Bridgton Hospital and patient equipment needs.

The Guild President is Sandra Weygandt. For information about joining the Guild please go the www.bridgton hospital.org.

04/25/2013

Bridgton Hospital Sponsors Colon Display

Bridgton Hospital and Sanofi, a multinational pharmaceutical company, have teamed up to present a 12-foot long, 10-foot high human colon display at Bridgton Hospital. Those visiting the display can walk through the colon and learn about colon disease and how it is diagnosed and treated.

The display demonstrates the appearance of a healthy colon as well as the effects of various diseases of the colon, including cancer. Information about colorectal cancer prevention, risks, symptoms and screening options will be available.

Colorectal cancer is 90 percent preventable through modification of lifestyle-related risk factors such as smoking, obesity, lack of exercise, diets high in red and processed meats, alcohol use and even diabetes. People with type-2 diabetes have a higher incidence of colon cancer.

Colorectal cancer is 90 percent treatable if detected early, yet it remains a leading cancer killer in the U.S. The best way to prevent colon cancer is through routine screening.

The display will be located outdoors near the entrance to the Outpatient Services area at Bridgton Hospital on May 17 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. The display is being presented as part of the hospital’s observance of National Hospital Week, May 12 through 18.

Refreshments will be served.

For more information, call Sue Rivet, R.N., at 647-6064.

04/25/2013

Bridgton Hospital’s Special Delivery Birthing Center Open House April 27

Having a baby? Thinking about having a baby?

The Special Delivery Family Birthing Center at Bridgton Hospital will welcome all moms, dads, significant others, grandmothers, grandfathers, siblings and community members to an OPEN HOUSE of the Center, Saturday, April 27, from 10AM to Noon.

Guests will be welcome by the nursing staff, who will tour you through our private birthing suites, complete with Jacuzzi tubs, as well as visit our baby nursery, learn about our state of the art HUGS® infant/baby security system, our ‘Baby Friendly Hospital’ commitment, and the breastfeeding products and support groups we offer. Our nursing staff will be there to answer your questions. Hidden Treasure Photography, Fryeburg, will be taking free photographs of your baby. The day will also feature a BIRTHYEAR 2012 group photo shoot at 10:30AM of moms and their babies born at the Center in 2012. Refreshments will be served and all babies attending will receive a free beach ball for summer fun!

Bridgton Hospital is conveniently located off RT 302 and South High St. in Bridgton. For further details on the Open House contact Pamela Smith at 207-647-6055.

04/15/2013

Bridgton Hospital named one of the HealthStrong™ Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals in the US

“Bridgton Hospital is proud of its providers and staff who have made it possible for our hospital to achieve this designation,” said Bridgton Hospital President and CEO David Frum. “Critical Access Hospitals are essential to assuring good health and access to high quality care in the nation’s rural areas, and we are very pleased to be considered among the top in this group of healthcare organizations. We would like to thank the Lakes Region community for the support they continually give Bridgton Hospital.”

The HealthStrong™ Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals, including Bridgton Hospital, scored best among critical access hospitals on the iVantage Health Analytics’ Hospital Strength Index™. The 2013 Top 100 CAH announcement is the second release of this important designation. The Hospital Strength Index is first-ever comprehensive rating of CAHs and the results recognize the Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals that provide a “safety- net “to communities across rural America – measuring them across 56 different performance metrics, including quality, outcomes, patient perspective, affordability and efficiency. More information can be found at www.iVantageHealth.com/HSI

“Rural hospitals play a critical role in providing needed care to communities across America, yet the challenges are completely different while being as complex as urban hospitals. The need for enhanced performance and a framework for success are equally important as hospitals prepare for the impact of health reform,” said John Morrow, EVP of iVantage Health Analytics.

About iVantage Health Analytics

iVantage Health Analytics™ is a privately held healthcare business intelligence and technology company serving more than 500 hospitals across the United States. iVantage Health Analytics provides comparative healthcare analytics by integrating disparate market, clinical, operational, and financial data into a single, enterprise-wide platform for executive level business intelligence. For more information, visit www.iVantageHealth.com

About Bridgton Hospital

Located in the heart of the Lakes Region, Bridgton Hospital serves some 21 communities in western Maine and the Mount Washington Valley of New Hampshire. The hospital supports a 24-hour emergency department, inpatient and outpatient surgery, and full service laboratory and medical imaging departments. The BH Swing Bed Program provides care for patients who need skilled nursing services. The hospital provides primary and specialty care services on its campus as well as in Fryeburg, Naples and North Bridgton. Offered in cooperation with Central Maine Medical Center, BH’s specialty services include oncology-hematology, podiatry, diabetes education, cardiology, neurology, pulmonology, orthopedics, and wound care.

03/27/2013

Bridgton Hospital Board of Directors Elects Two Members

The Bridgton Hospital Board of Directors, chaired by Philip R. Libby, has announced the election and appointment of two new members, Matthew H. Frank, of Harrison, and Susan D. Cole, of North Bridgton. Mr. Frank and Ms. Cole will take the seats of retiring Board members Wayne Kuvaja and Ronald M. Cilley, M.D.

Ms. Cole joins the Board following a 35 year career at Bridgton Academy, where she served as comptroller, HR director, college counselor and student advisor, retiring in 2010. She received her BS in Business Administration and Accounting from Westbrook College. In other volunteer roles she serves as Treasurer of the North Bridgton Public Library and the Harrison Water District.

Mr. Frank joins the Board following an extensive background in investment and finance, including serving as chairman of the board of the Amex Membership Corporation. A graduate of Babson College, he currently serves as a Selectman for the Town of Harrison, treasurer of the Harrison Lions Club, and Board member of the Lakes Environmental Association. His late father and mother, Robert and Eleanor Frank, had a long history of volunteer leadership involvement with the hospital.

Located in the heart of the Lakes Region, Bridgton Hospital serves some 21 communities in western Maine and the Mount Washington Valley of New Hampshire. The hospital supports a 24-hour emergency department, inpatient and outpatient surgery, and full service laboratory and medical imaging departments. The BH Swing Bed Program provides care for patients who need skilled nursing services. The hospital provides primary and specialty care services on its campus as well as in Fryeburg, Naples and North Bridgton. Offered in cooperation with Central Maine Medical Center, BH’s specialty services include oncology-hematology, podiatry, diabetes education, cardiology, neurology, pulmonology, orthopedics, and wound care.

Bridgton Hospital is a proud partner of the Central Maine Medical Center Family.

03/24/2013

Internist Begins Work in Bridgton

LARGE VERSION

Roger El-Hachem, M.D., a specialist in internal medicine, has joined Bridgton Internal Medicine.

Prior to beginning his work in the Lakes Region, El-Hachem practiced in Willimantic, Conn., initially in solo practice and later with Hartford Medical Group. He also served as a hospitalist at Windham Community Memorial Hospital in Willimantic. His practice experience includes private practice with Altapass Internal Medicine in Spruce Pine, N.C., and medical staff appointments at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and Depaul Medical Center, both in Norfolk, Va.

El-Hachem attended Universal College in Beirut, and earned his medical degree from Lebanese University School of Medicine in Beirut. He completed an internal medicine internship at Columbia University College ofPhysicians and Surgeons in New York City, and served his residency training at Eastern Virginia Graduate School of Medicine in Norfolk, Va., where he was chief medical resident for a year. He completed training in gastrointestinal endoscopy at Norfolk General Hospital VA Medical Center.

His experience in academic medicine includes a year as an associate instructor at Eastern Virginia Graduate School of Medicine.

El-Hachem is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He is qualified to perform gastrointestinal endoscopy exams.

He is fluent in English, French and Arabic.

He lives in Raymond, with his wife, Lisa, and daughters, Camilla and Ava.

El-Hachem is practicing in association with Henry J. Roy,III, M.D., Stephen M. Ward, M.D., Nancy L. Wright, D.N.P, and Rachel Ward W.D., a psychiatrist. Bridgton Internal Medicine care providers see patients at 25 Hospital Drive, Suite 2, in Bridgton. The practice can be reached at 647-2311.

03/12/2013

Bridgton Hospital to Host Uniform Sale Fundraiser

Bridgton Hospital will be hosting an on-site sale by vendor First Uniforms Inc. on Tues., March 19, from 7AM to 4PM, in the hospital lobby.

First Uniform Inc. provides the convenience of on-site uniform and shoe sales for busy professionals, including doctors, nurses, lab and x-ray personnel, and others. A large selection of quality scrubs, jackets, shoes, and other items of need for the healthcare professional, will be available. MasterCard, VISA, Discover, American Express and checks are accepted.

A percentage of the day’s sale will be donated to the Bridgton Hospital Annual Giving Fund, whose funds benefit all aspects of patient care. For any questions please contact Pamela Smith at Bridgton Hospital, 207-647-6055.

02/27/2013

Bridgton Hospital to Offer Free 'Pump It Up' Heart Failure Education Series

Bridgton Hospital will offer a series of free public educational programs entitled 'Pump It Up', a series focusing on heart failure, starting Thurs., Feb. 28, and continuing March 7 and 14. The free series of classes will run from 3 to 5PM in the Bridgton Hospital Physician Group Conference Room, conveniently located in the former hospital building on Hospital Drive. June Inman, RN and Nancy Murphy, RN, both nursing members of the Bridgton Hospital (ICU) Intensive Care Unit will host the program.

Heart failure is a condition in which the heart can no longer pump enough blood to the rest of the body. Symptoms of heart failure often begin slowly. At first, they may only occur when you are very active. Over time, you may notice breathing problems and other symptoms even when you are resting. Heart failure symptoms may also begin suddenly; for example, after a heart attack or other heart problem. Common symptoms are: cough, fatigue, weakness, faintness, loss of appetite, need to urinate at night, pulse that feels fast or irregular, or a sensation of feeling the heart beat (palpitations), shortness of breath when you are active or after you lie down, swollen (enlarged) liver or abdomen, swollen feet and ankles, waking up from sleep after a couple of hours due to shortness of breath, and weight gain.

'Pump It Up' topics covered on Feb. 28 will include Diagnosis and Treatment of Heart Failure with Alan Langburd, M.D., cardiologist from Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute.

The March 7 program will be Medication and Heart Failure, Respiratory Health, and Prescription Assistance. The sessions will be presented by Gloria Morris, Respiratory Therapist and Karen Mentus, Prescription Assistance Program.

The series concludes March 14 with Diet and Your Heart Health, presented by Linda Russell, Registered/Licensed Dietitian, Exercise and Activity Tolerance with members of the Physical Therapy Department.

For questions about this free series on living with heart failure, please contact Ms. June Inman or Ms. Nancy Murphy at 207-647-6050. Pre-registration is not required but is helpful.

01/28/2013

Bridgton Hospital Diabetes Clinic to Offer Diabetes Education Program

The Bridgton Hospital Diabetes Clinic will sponsor its three-part Diabetes Education Program on Feb. 27, March 6 and March 8 from 8:30AM to 11:30AM. The sessions will be held in the Bridgton Hospital Boardroom.

Bridgton Hospital has received the prestigious American Diabetes Association Education Recognition Certificate for a quality diabetes self‑management education program.

The series requires physician referral and early registration is suggested due to its popularity (class size is limited to assure personal attention). Topics covered include: the importance of exercise and physical activity, healthy meal plans and diabetes, hypoglycemia signs and symptoms, medications to control diabetes, complications and diabetes, diabetes and eye care, and diabetes and proper foot care. Medicaid and most insurance plans cover the course registration fee.

In addition to Elaine Drew, RN/CDE, a registered nurse who is also a certified diabetes nurse educator (CDE), lecturers will include Linda Russell, MA, RD/LD, CDE, Registered Dietician, Dr. S. Scott Ferguson, Optometrist, and Karen Bogdan, OT, Occupational Therapist, and Denyell Gerchmann, R.Pharm. These classes are designed to give general information about diabetes and help the patient manage their diabetes. The course also introduces patients to a diabetes support system. A dietary consultation is required, and should be done before the classes begin. Please contact Linda Russell, RD/LD,CDE at 647-6062 to schedule an appointment for this consultation.

Participants are encouraged to bring a relative or a friend with them. For more information about the program or to register call 207-647-6064, Elaine Drew, RN/CDE.

01/28/2013

National Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Week Celebrated at Bridgton Hospital

Bridgton Hospital will observe National Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Week from January 20 - 26. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are advanced practice nurses who administer approximately 40 million anesthetics per year in the United States. CRNAs are the sole anesthesia providers at Bridgton Hospital and nearly all rural hospitals in America. They have been the primary providers to the United States military since World War I.

Thomas Nolan, CRNA, and Ibra (Chip) Ripley, CRNA, MSNA, are employed by Bridgton Hospital. As of January 3, 2013, they welcomed Sergei Pavlov, CRNA, MSNA, as the third, full-time member of the anesthesia department. The services the three CRNAs provide include anesthesia for surgery and special procedures, acute pain management, epidural analgesia for labor and delivery, intravenous access consultation and airway management for resuscitation. All services are available 24 hours a day.

Nolan, Ripley and Pavlov are members of the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists, the Maine Association of Nurse Anesthetists and are adjunct clinical faculty at the University of New England School of Nurse Anesthesia. Bridgton Hospital serves as a clinical practice site for UNE.

All three CRNAs are residents of the Bridgton community and are committed to providing high quality, compassionate anesthesia care to all patients referred to them. To find out more about CRNAs and the work they do, contact www.aana.com.

01/18/2013

Bridgton Hospital Emergency Response Team to Participate in 2013 'Freezing for a Reason' Fundraising Event

On Saturday, January 26, at Highland Lake, the Bridgton Hospital Emergency Response Team (made up of the Safety Committee, the Emergency Preparedness Team, and the Decontamination Team) will be participating in the 'Freezing for a Reason' event and needs your assistance.

This day is the annual "Freezing for a Reason" event to raise money for the Harvest Hills Animal Shelter. The Bridgton Hospital decontamination tent will be brought to the lake and set up as a warm changing area for the people who jump into the freezing cold water.

The hospital team of volunteers needs assistance both setting up the tent and taking it down again in the afternoon. Volunteers interesting in helping will meet behind the former hospital at 7:45AM and roll out to the lake by 8AM. Assistance taking the tent down will be needed at the lake at 1:30PM.

Not able to help with set up and take down? Bridgton Hospital's own George Gardner will be raising money and jumping on behalf of Bridgton Hospital. He will even be sporting one of the new Bridgton Hospital ‘Emergency Response Team' T-shirts for the jump!

To contact George Gardner at the hospital call 207-647-6000.

01/16/2013

‘Volunteer Angel’ with Four Paws

Lori Stacy RN and her pet therapy dog, Ceasar, at Bridgton Hospital.
LARGE VERSION

Bridgton Hospital has a ‘Volunteer Angel’ program, an in-hospital corps of volunteers who serve in various areas of the hospital including the prescription assistance program, medical affairs, and the diabetes program. The volunteers submit applications, go through background checks, interview for positions, and wear jackets and nametags while volunteering, clearly identifying them as Volunteer Angels. According to Pam Smith, director of the program, “There is one volunteer who is a little different, however….but he still wears a nametag and scarf!”

His name is Ceasar.

Well, really it is “Ceasar” Handsome Charcoal Cocoa Puf Ceasar… and he is a Certified Therapy Dog with Therapy Dogs International, and is trained and loved by owner Lori Stacy, RN, a Bridgton Hospital nurse for over thirty-three years. A Cocker Spaniel with beautiful blue eyes, he was born April 11, 2011 in Ohio and started volunteering at the hospital over the past few months.

Ms. Stacy notes, “It’s my first therapy dog, but I’ve always wanted to do it. I firmly believe that pets make a difference in the life of a patient. They are very therapeutic. Patients love it!”

Therapy Dogs International, the organization Ceasar has been certified by, “is dedicated to regulating, testing and registration of therapy dogs and their volunteer handlers for the purpose of visiting hospitals, nursing homes, other institutions and wherever else therapy dogs are needed.” Founded in New Jersey in 1976, there are approximately 24,000 dog/handler teams registered with them throughout the United States and Canada.

In order to belong to TDI, all dogs must be tested and evaluated by a Certified TDI Evaluator. Ceasar was tested and passed his certification last summer, right here in Maine. Prior to that testing he had to receive his American Kennel Club ‘Good Citizen Test’, a test including his behavior around people using service equipment, like wheelchairs and crutches. Ceasar passed his GCT test in March 2012, following training with Lori at Telling Tails Training Center in Denmark.

Then, in order to become a ‘Volunteer Angel’ and a therapy dog at Bridgton Hospital, Ceasar and Lori had to go through an extensive application process following the hospital policy for pet therapy/guide assist animals, including a Health Certificate and copies of all certifications. Ceasar also had to have his photo taken and must wear his name badge on a lanyard when in the hospital.

A meticulous owner and excellent therapy dog handler, Lori provides a ‘business card’ to leave with every patient she visits with, signed by Ceasar. It says “Today I visited with a canine companion. Big paws, long ears, soft fur, blue eyes, A pat, a lick, Sitting here with me. Speaks to my heart. Whispers a healing touch.”

Lori says “he gets a very positive response from our patients”.

We’d say she is understating his impact. Patients adore him.

12/06/2012

Bridgton Hospital Guild Hosts Tree Lighting Nov. 26

On Nov. 26, the Bridgton Hospital Guild members, along with community members, gathered round the Christmas tree located on the hospital campus for their annual tree lighting.
LARGE VERSION

On Monday, November 26, the Bridgton Hospital Guild officially lighted their outside ‘Tree of Love’ for the holidays. Led by Choirmaster Carolyn Stanhope, Bridgton Congregational Church, the large fir tree located at the side of the new Bridgton Hospital was lighted by Guild President, Sandra Weygandt. Guild members, community members, employees and, yes, even SANTA was present with great choral spirit! This was followed by hot chocolate and home-made cookies at the Guild ‘Twitchell Café’ Coffee Shop.

The Bridgton Hospital Guild inside ‘Tree of Love’ will be in the lobby throughout December. The Tree of Love inside is decorated with clear glass bulbs in memory or honor of loved ones. A holiday light can be purchased for $5 (or more!) in memory or honor of anyone you wish. They are available in the Guild coffee shop, Guild thrift shop, hospital lobby, or by sending your check and details of the memorial/honoree to BH Guild, 10 Hospital Dr., Bridgton ME 04009.

The Bridgton Hospital Guild is a 501© 3 charitable organization whose mission is “render service to Bridgton Hospital and its patients through ways approved/proposed by the governing board.” All fundraising of the not-for- profit organization benefits the patients of Bridgton Hospital. Gifts to the organization are tax-deductible.

12/03/2012

Bridgton Hospital Recognized by Maine CDC for Employee Influenza Vaccinations

LARGE VERSION

The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention, an Office of the Department of the Health and Human Services, has honored Bridgton Hospital for vaccinating over 85% of their employees against influenza during the 2011-2012 season.

Each year hospitals are required to provide the Maine CDC with self-reported health care worker influenza vaccination rates. Over the past year, Maine CDC worked in collaboration with the Maine Hospital Association and the Maine Infection Prevention Collaborative to refine the data collection process and improve the overall quality of the health care worker vaccination coverage data.

Fifteen Maine hospitals were recognized by the organization for their commitment to vaccinating employees against influenza, a proven strategy to decrease transmission of the flu to vulnerable patients.

11/20/2012

Success! Breast Cancer Awareness Month ‘Bras Across Bridgton’ at Bridgton Hospital

Alyssa Noble starts the job off packing up 345 bras for distribution to organizations throughout the country.
LARGE VERSION

Throughout the month of October, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Bridgton Hospital Radiology Department promoted their Third Annual ‘Bras Across Bridgton Hospital’. This effort is their yearly effort to raise awareness of breast cancer by collecting bras to distribute to needy women across the state, country and world.

According to organizer Alissa Noble, Radiology Supervisor, “We collected 345 bras with the help of Bridgton Hospital and the Bridgton Hospital Physician Group offices. We also received community help from numerous people including the Magic Lantern, Jessica DeLeon, York Hospital, Deborah Ripley, Beth’s Café, and Crystal Lake Spa. Some people found out about our effort through friends of friends on Facebook or read about us in the local newspapers. We surpassed our original goal of 300 and are deeply grateful to all for their donations. Thank you again to all the wonderful people at Bridgton Hospital that helped - whether it was setting things up, sorting things out or reaching high places, it is all appreciated! It was great to see the community involvement this year and one of the best parts has been reading the ‘tags’ that donors filled out when dropping off the bras - very touching words honoring people with cancer.”

Next on the agenda for Alissa? Getting all these wonderful bras to the women that need them. The following organizations will be receiving bras:

Support1000 in Chicago, Starting Point in Conway, NH, Safe Voices, Lewiston, Community H.E.L.P., Bridgton, Pine Ridge Reservation, South Dakota, Dress for Success, Portland, and the Bridgton Hospital Guild Thrift Shop, Bridgton.

The “Bra-ffle” raffle, held throughout the month, winners are: Grand Prize - photo session with Molly Breton Photography: Vanessa Smith;

Avon basket of goodies: Cathy Mains; Basket of homemade honey: Wanda Martin; Bridgton Hospital Polo shirt: Bonny Clark; Bridgton Hospital pink sweatshirt: Karen Leach; Lake Region Fitness 1 month membership: Loretta Henry; License plate frames: Deb Conforte, Tricia Cook, Cheryl Harmon, Mary Maxwell.

11/08/2012

Bridgton Hospital Diabetes Offers A1C Champions Program in November

On Tuesday, Nov. 27, from 2-3PM and again from 6-7PM, the Bridgton Hospital diabetes clinic will offer a free special on-site presentation called the A1C Champions® Program. The program is sponsored by Sanofi-Aventis. A1C Champions® presenter Ruth Charne, from Brooklyn, NY, will be the guest speaker, sharing her personal experience with living with diabetes. The A1C Champions® are individuals who successfully control their diabetes and want to help others do the same.

Ms. Charne, a very enjoyable and dynamic speaker, is a member of the Sanofi-Aventis A1C Champions Program®, a patient-led approach to diabetes education. As one of the A1C Champions®, she knows first-hand the challenges and obstacles to maintaining control of her diabetes. She will share diabetes self-management and lifestyle strategies based on extensive training as well as her own personal experience with diabetes.

Her presentation will offer people with diabetes information on diabetes and how to achieve good blood sugar control, helpful suggestions and encouragement so that they too can enjoy a healthier life.

“A1C Champions® serve as role models to other diabetes patients and provide a support system that encourages patients to take control of the disease,” said Elaine Drew, RN, Bridgton Hospital’s Certified Diabetes Educator. “There is a huge need for compassionate patient mentors. Diabetes is a complicated disease and too many patients aren’t taking care of themselves, which puts them at risk for serious diabetes-related complications.”

Diabetes is a chronic, widespread condition in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin, the hormone needed to convert glucose (sugar) into energy. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that more than 20 million Americans – 7% of the population – have diabetes, including an estimated 6.2 million who do not yet know they have the disease.

This program will be offered on the hospital campus, from 2-3PM in the conference room located in the former hospital, and from 6-7 PM in the new hospital Boardroom. To register for this free presentation please contact Mrs. Elaine Drew, RN/CDE at Bridgton Hospital 207-647-6064.

The Bridgton Hospital Diabetes Clinic has been awarded the prestigious American Diabetes Association Education Recognition Certificate for its quality diabetes self-management education program.

11/02/2012

Bridgton Hospital Guild Lighting of Tree of Love on Nov. 26

On Monday, Nov. 26, at 4PM, the Bridgton Hospital Guild will light their 'Tree of Love', located off the main entrance to Bridgton Hospital, for the holiday season. The public is cordially invited to please join this festive and uplifting start to the holiday season!

A yearly tradition, the lighting of the tree is followed by complimentary hot chocolate and homemade goodies served at the Bridgton Hospital Guild 'Twitchell Café' located on the hospital campus. Gathering around the 30' tall spruce, Choirmaster Carolyn Stanhope will lead the attendees in songs for the holiday. Please bring along your Santa hats!

The Guild also has set up their 'Tree of Love' in the main lobby of the hospital. Guild members are selling lights on the tree in memory or in honor of loved ones. A gift of $5.00, or more, ‘lights’ a glowing Christmas bulb for the holiday season. Applications for the 'Tree of Love' lights are available in the hospital lobby, at the Bridgton Hospital Guild's Twitchell Café and at their Main St., Bridgton, Guild Thrift Store. Honorees or their family are notified by mail of your thoughtful gift by the Tree of Love project directors, Susan Strong and Fern Twitchell.

The Bridgton Hospital Guild is a not for profit organization. Their mission is to provide charitable support for the community hospital, Bridgton Hospital. They raise funds through their operations of the Guild Twitchell Café, on the hospital campus, and the Guild Thrift Store. President is Sandra Weygandt. For further information about the Guild, including membership information, check out the Bridgton Hosiptal website at www.bridgtonhospital.org.

11/02/2012

Bridgton Hospital Guild Presents $40,000 Annual Gift

Bridgton Hospital President, David Frum and Sandra Weygandt, Guild President, display the Bridgton Hospital Guild check for $40,000 presented to the hospital.
LARGE VERSION

The Annual Meeting of the Bridgton Hospital Guild was held at the Campfire Grille Restaurant, Bridgton, on Wednesday, October 24.

The Guild President, Sandra Weygandt, presided over the gathering of members and guests. Guests included Bridgton Hospital President, R. David Frum, Philip Libby, Chairman of the Board of Directors, John Ludwig, Vice President of Administration, and Pamela Smith, Director of Development and Community Relations and Liaison to the Guild. Special Guest Speaker for the event was Bruce L. Poliquin, Treasurer, State of Maine.

Mr. Poliquin focused his presentation on Washington's fiscal crisis, and its effect on the state government and the citizens of Maine. The treasurer also took the opportunity to address Maine's health care priorities, such as steps to reimburse Maine's hospitals for Mainecare patients, and the recent law, LD1326, which will effectively lower the cost of health insurance being paid by Maine's school districts. Mr. Poliquin took questions from the audience and graciously thanked the Guild for its invitation.

Officers elected included at the meeting include: President, Sandra Weygandt; 1st Vice-President, Phyllis Ginzler; 2nd Vice-President, Marjorie Blaney; 3rd Vice President, Glenice St. Peter; Recording Secretary, Sherry Morrison, Corresponding Secretary, Pamela King; Diana Fallon, Treasurer.

Emily and Fred Hammerlee, dedicated Guild members who tirelessly volunteer for the benefit of the Guild Thrift Shop, were presented Life Memberships in recognition of their commitment by President Weygandt.

To conclude the event, Mrs. Weygandt presented the Guild annual gift of $40,000 to Mr. Frum and Bridgton Hospital. The funds will be used to purchase new operating room lights for the surgery area of the Bridgton Hospital. The Bridgton Hospital Guild is a not for profit organization that supports the Bridgton Hospital through various fundraising efforts including the Twitchell Café located on the hospital campus and the Guild Thrift Shop located on Main St., Bridgton. Run solely by hard working and dedicated volunteers, the organization plays a pivotal role in purchasing capital equipment for the hospital, making a yearly donation to the hospital. For Guild membership details check out www.bridgtonhospital.org

10/30/2012

Bridgton Hospital Daisy Award Recipient Honored at Special Ceremony

Sally Dunning RN was presented The Daisy Award, in recognition of nursing excellence. Also pictured, left to right, Karen Harding RN, Nancy Murphy RN, Bridgton Hospital President David Frum, Jill Rollins, RN, John Ludwig RN, Donna Goodridge RN.
LARGE VERSION

What is The Daisy Award at Bridgton Hospital? The DAISY Award honorees personify Bridgton Hospital’s remarkable patient experience. DAISY Award nurses consistently demonstrate excellence through their clinical expertise and extraordinary compassionate care, and they are recognized as outstanding role models in our nursing community.

The DAISY Award is an international program that rewards and celebrates the extraordinary clinical skill and compassionate nurses. Bridgton Hospital is proud to be a DAISY Award Partner and presents the award quarterly during the year.

Bridgton Hospital presented its most recent Daisy Award to Sally Dunning RN. Sally was nominated by her peers, as well as many others within the organization, for this special recognition. Having gone through her own personal grief and loss, she is always there for others. Ms. Dunning was nominated for her recent fulfillment of a dying patient’s ultimate wish to marry his fiancée. The task rested with this charge nurse on a weekend, when she took on the additional role of ‘wedding planner’, coordinating with people both within and outside the organization to make the event a reality. Accomplishment of this daunting task, on a Sunday, was not a detriment to Ms. Dunning. She managed to have the Town of Bridgton open their office for the necessary paperwork and brought in an Officiate to perform the wedding ceremony. She offered her own beloved wedding bands, always worn around her neck on a chain, for the couple. This was an amazing ‘gift from the heart’ - changing the lives of a family.

The DAISY Foundation was established in Glen Ellen, California, in 1999 by the family of J. Patrick Barnes who died of complications of the auto-immune disease Idiopathic Thrombocytopenia Purpura (ITP) at the age of 33. (DAISY is an acronym for diseases attacking the immune system.) During Mr. Barnes eight week hospitalization, his family was awestruck by the care and compassion his nurses at his hospital provided not only to him but to everyone in his family. So one of the goals they set in creating a Foundation in his memory was to recognize extraordinary nurses everywhere who make an enormous difference in the lives of so many people by the super-human work they do everyday. In the fall of 2011, Bridgton Hospital joined The Daisy Foundation and hospitals across the country, in recognizing their nurses through this exceptional award.

Ms. Dunning, as a DAISY Award Honoree, was presented a bouquet of daisies, a DAISY certificate, a DAISY Award pin, and a hand-carved stone sculpture entitled A Healer’s Touch. Additionally, everyone in attendance celebrated with specially made cinnamon rolls. The significance of the cinnamon rolls is that Mr. Barnes especially enjoyed sharing cinnamon rolls with his nurses, and his family felt this should be a part of the ceremonies across the country. Ms. Dunning will also have a dedicated parking spot for the next three months on the hospital campus..

10/24/2012

Bridgton Hospital Diabetes Clinic to Offer Diabetes Education Program

The Bridgton Hospital Diabetes Clinic will sponsor its four-part Diabetes Education Program Nov. 1, 5, 13 and 15, from 6PM to 8PM. The sessions will be held in the Bridgton Hospital Boardroom.

Bridgton Hospital has received the prestigious American Diabetes Association Education Recognition Certificate for a quality diabetes self‑management education program.

The series requires physician referral and early registration is suggested due to its popularity (class size is limited to assure personal attention). Topics covered include: the importance of exercise and physical activity, healthy meal plans and diabetes, hypoglycemia signs and symptoms, medications to control diabetes, complications and diabetes, diabetes and eye care, and diabetes and proper foot care. Medicaid and most insurance plans cover the course registration fee.

In addition to Elaine Drew, RN/CDE, a registered nurse who is also a certified diabetes nurse educator (CDE), lecturers will include Linda Russell, MA, RD/LD, CDE, Registered Dietician, Dr. N. Scott Ferguson, Optometrist, and Karen Bogdan, OT, Occupational Therapist. These classes are designed to give general information about diabetes and help the patient manage their diabetes. The course also introduces patients to a diabetes support system. A dietary consultation is required, and should be done before the classes begin. Please contact Linda Russell, RD/LD,CDE at 647-6062 to schedule an appointment.

Participants are encouraged to bring a relative or a friend with them. For more information about the program or to register call 207-647-6064, Elaine Drew, RN/CDE, Bridgton Hospital.

10/17/2012

Bridgton Hospital to Sponsor On-Site Book Fair Nov. 7 and 8

Bridgton Hospital will be the host site for a ‘Books are Fun’ Book Fair. The sale runs Wed., Nov. 7, from 10AM to 4PM and Thurs., Nov. 5, from 7AM to 3PM, in the main lobby of the hospital. Books are Fun is a Reader’s Digest Company.

The popular twice-yearly sale provides a huge assortment of great new books, as well as gift items, at savings of up to 70%. That makes this event an ideal time to purchase for year-round gift giving. A percentage of the book sale profits are donated to the Bridgton Hospital Annual Fund, which benefits all areas of patient care at the not for profit hospital. For further details contact Pam Smith, Director of Development and Community Relations, 207-647-6055.

10/17/2012

Bridgton Pediatrics Recognized for Outstanding Performance In Providing Immunizations to Children

Debora Bedell RN, Bridgton Pediatrics, Clinical Coordinator, pictured with Stefanie Nadeau, Director, Office of MaineCare Services and Joanie Klayman, LCSW, CHIPRA Project Director, Cutler Institute for Health and Social Policy, USM Muskie School
LARGE VERSION

Bridgton Pediatrics, a member of the Bridgton Hospital Physician Group, accepted the GOLD AWARD from Maine Quality Counts, for their participation in the statewide First STEPS (Strengthening Together Early Preventive Screening) Learning Collaborative. They were one of just six Maine pediatric practices to be recognized at the September 14th award presentation and were recognized for their outstanding performance in increasing childhood and adolescent immunization rates from September 2011-July 2012.

Maine Quality Counts (QC) is leading a three year pilot with 24 family and pediatric practices in Maine as part of the Improving Health Outcomes for Children (IHOC) Project. IHOC is a collaborative effort in Maine and Vermont supported by a federal CHIPRA Quality Demonstration Grant, awarded to MaineCare Services. As immunizations are one of the cornerstones of children’s health, the practices in First STEPS focused on improving their childhood immunization rates for the first part of the project.

They joined EMMC Husson Pediatrics, Kennebec Pediatrics, PenBay Pediatrics, Penobscot Pediatrics, and Waterville Pediatrics in this honor. Five practices were also recognized for the most improved immunization rates: Barbara Bush Pediatric Clinic/MMC Med-Peds Clinic, Waterville Pediatrics, MMP Falmouth Pediatrics, Winthrop Pediatrics, and Maine Coast Pediatrics. Presenting the awards to each of the GOLD award recipients were Stefanie Nadeau, Director, Office of MaineCare Services and Joanie Klayman, CHIPRA Project Director, Cutler Institute for Health and Social Policy, Muskie School of Public Service, USM.

Dr. Wenda Saunders, Physician Leader for Bridgton Pediatrics, reflecting on the experience of First STEPS, says that, “The FIRST STEPS, Phase 1 project helped our office fine tune our vaccine practices and to raise immunization awareness to the forefront AT EVERY VISIT, so that we are not missing opportunities to help our patients and families stay healthy.”

“The work that goes into achieving improvements in childhood immunization rates month-after-month is challenging. Each practice should be very proud of its accomplishment,” said Amy Belisle, MD, Director of Child Health Quality Improvement and the First STEPS Program at Maine Quality Counts. “Even more exciting is that the practices continue to work on improving their immunization rates and I expect that we will see this kind of improvement spread ultimately throughout all 24 practices and beyond.”

Bridgton Pediatrics welcomes new patients. Please call 207-647-4232 for appointments.

10/07/2012

October Breast Cancer Awareness Month ‘Bras Across Bridgton Hospital’

(L to R) Bridgton Hospital staff mammographers Debra Consorte, Alissa Noble, Jackie Thibeau and Moly Breton are collecting bras for the Breast Cancer Awareness effort ‘Bras Across Bridgton Hospital’.
LARGE VERSION

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. To educate and reinforce throughout the community the importance of scheduling yearly mammograms and doing monthly breast checks, the radiology department will be promoting their Third Annual ‘Bras Across Bridgton Hospital’ which is their month-long effort to raise awareness of breast cancer. The promotion also serves as an avenue to collect bras to distribute to needy women across the state, country and world.

The hospital has installed a pink clothesline in their main entrance rotunda, ready to accept donated bras for the initiative of displaying as many bras in the area as possible during the month-long effort. Each bra donor can complete a donation card which will hang from the bra and can be ‘In Honor of ’, ‘In Support of”, or ‘In memory of’ a loved one. At the end of the month, all donated bras will be presented to a designated not-for-profit organization including Dress for Success, Safe Voices, Starting Point, Support1000, the Pine Ridge Reservation of South Dakota, and the Bridgton Hospital Guild Thrift Shop. All donor cards will be then entered into an end-of-the-month drawing for several great prizes!

To donate a brand new or like-new freshly laundered bra, simply bring it Bridgton Hospital or any of the other drop-off locations including: Naples Family Practice, North Bridgton Family Practice, Fryeburg Family Medicine, Beth’s Kitchen, Lake Region Fitness Center, Crystal Lake Spa, Women in Balance.

While the organizers have made the event a fun and visible reminder of breast cancer, the serious reality is that breast cancer is the most common cancer, in American women today, aside from skin cancer. The American Cancer Society reports that an estimated 192,370 new cases of breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed among US women this year. Women are urged to schedule yearly screening mammograms over the age of 40 unless their physician suggests an earlier screening.

The Bridgton Hospital ‘Rosina Carlise Mammography Suite’ features the digital LORAD

Selenia mammography machine, providing exceptional image quality. The Rosina Carlise Mammography Suite is MQSA (Mammography Quality Standard Act) Certified and ACR (American College of Radiology) Certified and their mammography technologists are certified in mammography.

For questions and further details contact Allyssa Noble, RT (R)(M), staff mammographer, and Jackie Thibeau, RT(R)(M)(CT), medical imaging supervisor, at 207-647-6095.

09/20/2012

Bridgton Internal Medicine Patients Flu Shots

LARGE VERSION

The Bridgton Internal Medicine Practice, located on the campus of Bridgton Hospital, has announced they are now providing flu shots to their patients during their regular Monday through Friday office hours. Please call 647-2311 to schedule a time for your flu shot.

They also will be holding a Saturday appointments for flu shots for their patients unable to come in during the weekdays. It is scheduled for Sat, Oct. 13, from 8AM to Noon. Please call 647-2311 to schedule a convenient time.

09/20/2012

Lovell 6th Grader ‘Gives from the Heart’

(Center and L to R) McKenna McGrath presents her donation to the outpatient Cancer Care Fund to Susan Rivet, RN, Oncology Clinic Director, and Angie Thomas, wife of the late Scott Thomas, former Captain of the Lovell Fire Department.
LARGE VERSION

McKenna McGrath, daughter of Matthew and Laurie McGrath of Lovell, a soon to be sixth grader at Molly Ocket Middle School, wanted to ‘do something’ to remember the beloved Lovell Fire Department Captain, Scott Thomas, who passed away earlier this year after a courageous battle against cancer. Captain Thomas was a colleague with McKenna’s dad on the fire department. She found using her bracelet making skills met that goal!

On Monday, August 20th, Miss McGrath donated $300.00, the proceeds from selling her charming pink and white hand-braided cotton yarn bracelets to the Outpatient Cancer Care Fund at Bridgton Hospital. She crafted the bracelets throughout the summer and sold them at various craft fairs, art shows, barbeques, as well as to family and friends. According to McKenna, “ “I was overjoyed to have so much to donate for such a great cause. My family was supportive of me…and special thanks go to my Great Grandmother, Carol Craig, for helping me along the way.” She also sent her thanks and love to all who purchased her bracelets, which she sold for just fifty cents each.

The Outpatient Cancer Care Fund provides the department with funds to assist patients and their families who are dealing with the numerous financial challenges of dealing with cancer.

Mr. Thomas’s wife, Angie, works at the Bridgton Oncology Clinic. She learned of McKenna’s thoughtfulness and brought the project to the attention of the clinic director, Susan Rivet RN. Pamela Smith, Director of Development, accepted the gift on behalf of the hospital.

Bridgton Hospital is a 501©3 not for profit hospital dedicated to providing exceptional, quality care to the residents and visitors of the region. They are proud partners of the Central Maine Medical Center Family and more information can be found by visiting their website at www.bridgtonhospital.org.

08/20/2012

Bridgton Hospital to Offer 'Pump It Up' Heart Failure Education Series

Bridgton Hospital will offer a series of free public educational programs entitled ‘Pump It Up', a series focusing on heart failure, starting Thurs., Sept. 6, and continuing Sept. 13 and Sept. 20. The free series of classes will run from 3 to 5PM in the Bridgton Hospital Physician Group Conference Room, conveniently located in the former hospital building on Hospital Drive. June Inman, RN and Nancy Murphy, RN, both nursing members of the Bridgton Hospital (ICU) Intensive Care Unit will host the program.

Heart failure is a condition in which the heart can no longer pump enough blood to the rest of the body. Symptoms of heart failure often begin slowly. At first, they may only occur when you are very active. Over time, you may notice breathing problems and other symptoms even when you are resting. Heart failure symptoms may also begin suddenly; for example, after a heart attack or other heart problem. Common symptoms are: cough, fatigue, weakness, faintness, loss of appetite, need to urinate at night, pulse that feels fast or irregular, or a sensation of feeling the heart beat (palpitations), shortness of breath when you are active or after you lie down, swollen (enlarged) liver or abdomen, swollen feet and ankles, waking up from sleep after a couple of hours due to shortness of breath, and weight gain.

'Pump It Up' topics covered on Sept. 6 will include Disease Process, Signs and Symptoms with Alan Langburd, M.D., cardiologist from Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute.

The Sept. 13 program will be Medication and Heart Failure, Respiratory Health, and Prescription Assistance. The sessions will be presented by Gloria Morris, Respiratory Therapist, Bryan Thompson, R. Pharm, and Karen Mentus, Prescription Assistance Program.

The series concludes Sept. 20 with Diet and Your Heart Health, presented by Linda Russell, Registered/Licensed Dietitian, Exercise and Activity Tolerance with Nancy Donovan, Ph.D., Physical Therapy, and Psychosocial Aspects of Living with Heart Failure offered by Ms. Inman and Ms. Murphy.

For questions please contact Ms. June Inman or Ms. Nancy Murphy at 207-647-6050. Pre-registration is not required but is helpful.

08/20/2012

Bridgton Hospital Guild Recognizes Volunteers

The Bridgton Hospital Guild gathered for a Volunteer Recognition Luncheon at the Ruby Slipper Café, Harrison, and recognized twenty-nine members for nearly 7100 hours of volunteering last (fiscal) year.
LARGE VERSION

Members of the Bridgton Hospital Guild gathered for a luncheon recently to recognize the volunteer commitments of twenty-nine Guild members representing nearly 7100 hours of service to the organization.

The following volunteers were recognized: Tanya Allen, Marjorie Blaney, Peter Bollen, Denise Borgeson, David Croteau, Eileen Croteau, Terry Curns, Bonnie Douglass, James Fallon, Diana Fallon, Sheryl Field, Jeff Hanscom, Emily Hammerle, Mary Herland, Ann Ineson, Jean, Kobrock, James Knox, Barbara MacLean, Ellia Manners, Sherry Morrison, Linda Neilson, Mary Ann Poel, Elna Stone, Tom Stone, Susan Strong, Jack Sunders, Fern Twitchell, Donald Wright, and Sandra Weygandt.

Volunteers received lapel pins in recognition of volunteered hours between 100 and 249, 250 and 500, and over 500 hours. Hours are based on a fiscal year basis.

The Bridgton Hospital Guild is a not for profit organization that supports the Bridgton Hospital with their various philanthropic endeavors that include the Twitchell Café, located on the hospital campus, and the Thrift Shop, located on Main St., Bridgton, adjacent to Reny’s. Each year at their Annual Meeting, The Bridgton Hospital Guild presents a check to Bridgton Hospital to purchase medical equipment that the hospital has identified as urgently needed. In 2011, the Guild presented their largest annual gift, $42,000, which was used for the purchase of rehabilitation equipment for the expanded Swing Bed Rehabilitation area on the inpatient unit.

New members are always encouraged to join the Bridgton Hospital Guild. Membership applications are available at the Twitchell Café or Guild Thrift Shop or by going to www.bridgtonhospital.org.

08/07/2012

Bridgton Hospital Benefit Golf Tournament Wed., Sept. 5

The Bridgton Hospital Benefit Golf Tournament is scheduled for Wed., Sept. 5, at the Bridgton Highlands Country Club.

The tournament will feature four hole-in-one prizes, all-inclusive vacation trips, and the ever-popular ‘Putt for Cash”, a $20,000 cash prize. There will be more than $2,500 in team prizes awarded and LL Bean gift cards for Long Shot and Closest to the Pin. There will be a great silent auction including a vacation package and Shawnee Peak season pass. The $85.00 all-inclusive fee includes 18-holes of golf, golf cart, golfer gift pack, continental breakfast, excellent lunch, and after-tournament awards reception. New this year, all registered golfers will receive a free round of golf pass, compliments of Bridgton Highlands Country Club. Applications for a limited number of available foursomes are still available! Please call 207-647-6055 or e-mail at psmith@bh.cmhc.org. MasterCard, Discover, American Express and VISA are accepted.

08/07/2012

Bridgton Hospital Guild Thrift Shop Update

The Bridgton Hospital Guild Thrift Shop, conveniently located next to Reny’s on Main St. in Bridgton, is holding their popular ‘End of Summer’ half-price sale starting Mon., August 6 through Sat., August 11. This is followed by their dramatic ‘Fill-A-Bag for a $2.00’ sale starting Mon., Aug. 13 through Sat., August 18.

They are open Monday through Friday, 9AM to 3PM, and Saturday 10AM to 1PM. They are closed Sunday.

The shop will be closed Aug. 20 through August 21 and will reopen Wed., August 22 with fall and winter inventory. Perfect for Back to School shopping!

The Bridgton Hospital Guild Thrift Shop is a not for profit fundraising project for the organization and all funds raised benefit the local hospital, Bridgton Hospital. For full details about the Bridgton Hospital Guild including how to become a member go to www.bridgtonhospital.org/gateway-guild.html.

Bridgton Hospital, part of the CMMC Family, serves the Lakes Region Community of Maine as well as the Mt. Washington Valley of New Hampshire.

08/05/2012

Shawn Marie Higgins, D.O. Joins Naples Family Practice

Shawn M. Higgins, D.O. joins Naples Family Practice
LARGE VERSION

Bridgton Hospital and the Bridgton Hospital Physician Group are pleased to announce the addition of Shawn Marie Higgins, D.O., to the Naples Family Practice offices of Maureen L. Harpell, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Erinn H. Wright, M.D.

Shawn Marie Higgins, D.O. received her medical degree from the University Of New England College Of Osteopathic Medicine in Biddeford, Maine. She completed a residency in Family Medicine at Maine Dartmouth Family Medicine Residency in Augusta, Maine. Her undergraduate BA was awarded from the University of Southern Maine and the University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia, with a concentration in Biology..

She is board certified in both Family Medicine and Osteopathic Medicine.

Dr. Higgins has received training at the Osteopathic Cranial Academy and provides a wide scope of Osteopathic Treatment techniques. She is also a certified Reiki Master and incorporates energy work into her treatments when appropriate. Although she practices the full scope of Family Medicine, Dr. Higgins has special interests in nutritional healing/cleansing and body work with Osteopathic, Cranial, and Energy treatments.

Her hobbies and interests include yoga, meditation, guitar, hiking and virtually anything to do with the outdoors She always finds rewarding her humanitarian work including travel to Haiti to help with post-earthquake medicine, where she plans to go back to each year. She also has dedicated time providing medical care for the Maine Migrant Health Program in Cherryfield, ME.

Dr. Higgins has been in her own solo practice, located in Falmouth, since 2010. She joins Naples Family Practice officially on August 1 and looks forward to new and former patients at the Naples site.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Higgins please call 693-6106.

08/05/2012

Electricity Maine Sign Up at Bridgton Hospital August 7 Benefits Dempsey Center

Ashley Rand a representative from Electricity Maine will be on site at the Bridgton Hospital on Tuesday, August 7, from 10AM to 2PM. Electricity Maine is joining the fight against cancer by partnering with the Dempsey Challenge fundraiser, a one-of-a-kind Maine based event founded by actor, Patrick Dempsey. For every new enrollment Electricity Maine receives with the “referral code” Electricity Maine will donate $5 back to the Dempsey Center.

Ashley will be available to answer any questions and to inform you how Electricity Maine can help you save money on your electric bill each Month. Electricity Maine is a locally Maine owned supply company dedicating to providing Mainers with a lower rate on electricity. Mainers now have the power to choose who supplies their electricity. Electricity Maine services all Central Maine Power and Bangor Hydro customers, and can save you 5% on the supply portion of your electric bill. Electricity Maine prides itself in supporting our Maine Communities by putting millions of dollars back in the homes of Maine people each year.

For further questions contact Pamela Smith at Bridgton Hospital 647-6055.

08/05/2012

Bridgton Hospital Daisy Award Recipient Honored at Special Ceremony

Lori Stacy, RNC was presented The Daisy Award, in recognition of nursing excellence at Bridgton Hospital.
LARGE VERSION

What is The Daisy Award at Bridgton Hospital? The DAISY Award honorees personify Bridgton Hospital’s remarkable patient experience. DAISY Award nurses consistently demonstrate excellence through their clinical expertise and extraordinary compassionate care, and they are recognized as outstanding role models in our nursing community.

The DAISY Award is an international program that rewards and celebrates the extraordinary clinical skill and compassionate nurses. Bridgton Hospital is proud to be a DAISY Award Partner and presents the award quarterly during the year.

Bridgton Hospital presented its Daisy Award to Janette LaPlante RN on July 19. Ms. LaPlante, a nurse in the Inpatient Unit, was nominated by her colleagues for this award. She was recognized specifically for her compassion and care of an elderly patient’s spouse that did not drive, and needed assistance to care for her animals at home as well as transportation to Central Maine Medical Center where her husband had been transferred. Ms. LaPlante graciously volunteered to take the spouse home, and then to CMMC, following her workday -- truly going ‘above and beyond’ for her patient.

The DAISY Foundation was established in Glen Ellen, California, in 1999 by the family of J. Patrick Barnes who died of complications of the auto-immune disease Idiopathic Thrombocytopenia Purpura (ITP) at the age of 33. (DAISY is an acronym for diseases attacking the immune system.) During Mr. Barnes eight week hospitalization, his family was awestruck by the care and compassion his nurses at his hospital provided not only to him but to everyone in his family. So one of the goals they set in creating a Foundation in his memory was to recognize extraordinary nurses everywhere who make an enormous difference in the lives of so many people by the super-human work they do everyday. In the fall of 2011, Bridgton Hospital joined The Daisy Foundation and hospitals across the country, in recognizing their nurses through this exceptional award.

Ms. LaPlante, as a DAISY Award Honoree, was presented a bouquet of daisies, a DAISY certificate, a DAISY Award pin, and a hand-carved stone sculpture entitled A Healer’s Touch. Additionally, everyone in attendance celebrated with specially made cinnamon rolls. The significance of the cinnamon rolls is that Mr. Barnes especially enjoyed sharing cinnamon rolls with his nurses, and his family felt this should be a part of the ceremonies across the country.

07/22/2012

Bridgton Hospital HEROES 2012

HEROES recipients Dr. Henry Roy (2nd from left) and Melissa Douglass, with David Frum, President, right, and John Ludwig, RN.
LARGE VERSION

David Frum, President of Bridgton Hospital, has named the recipients of the HEROES Awards for 2012.

Recipients include Henry J.W. Roy III, M.D., Bridgton Internal Medicine, Melissa Douglass, LPN, Bridgton Internal Medicine, Kelly Rugg, Cook, Dietary Services, and Katherine ‘Kate’ Fitzcharles, RT, Radiology Services.

The acronym HEROES stands for Healthcare Employees Reaching Out with Exceptional Service. HEROES was developed by Bridgton Hospital and the Central Maine Medical Family to honor employees who demonstrate the system’s core values of compassion, citizenship, integrity, service, excellence and commitment. This is the 5th year for the annual awards to be announced.

HEROES are nominated by their peers. Nominations are reviewed by senior management who make the final award decisions.

Ms. Douglass was recognized for her empathy and compassion to every patient she is in contact with at Bridgton Internal Medicine. She was also recognized as a team player, a positive role model, and a strong, fair and professional leader.

Ms. Fitzcharles was recognized for her great sense of loyalty and professionalism, and for providing 110% in patient care service, assuring all who come to Bridgton Hospital receives quality care.

Dr. Henry Roy, Bridgton Internal Medicine, was recognuzed for providing exceptional, quality healthcare including home visits and personal phone calls to his patients. A “consistent and steady force in the healthcare of the community”, he was recognized for being a perfectionist who holds a high standard for himself and others.

Ms. Rugg was recognized for her warmth and compassion to both patients and staff, her high level of integrity, and her ongoing commitment to the hospital and each patient.

Recipients were recognized by hospital leaders in surprise announcements at their offices or worksite. Each was presented a HEROES Award and presentation bouquet or plant. Their names will be added to the permanent HEROES plaque located in the main lobby of the Bridgton Hospital.

07/17/2012

Bridgton Hospital to Offer Diabetes Education Program

The Bridgton Hospital Diabetes Clinic will sponsor its four-part Diabetes Education Program on July 24, 26, 30 and 31, from 6PM to 8PM. The sessions will be held in the Bridgton Hospital Boardroom.

Bridgton Hospital has received the prestigious American Diabetes Association Education Recognition Certificate for a quality diabetes self‑management education program.

The series requires physician referral and early registration is suggested due to its popularity (class size is limited to assure personal attention). Topics covered include: the importance of exercise and physical activity, healthy meal plans and diabetes, hypoglycemia signs and symptoms, medications to control diabetes, complications and diabetes, diabetes and eye care, and diabetes and proper foot care. Medicaid and most insurance plans cover the course registration fee.

In addition to Elaine Drew, RN/CDE, a registered nurse who is also a certified diabetes nurse educator (CDE), lecturers will include Linda Russell, MA, RD/LD, CDE, Registered Dietician, Dr. Thomas Gordon, Optometrist, and Karen Bogdan, OT, Occupational Therapist. These classes are designed to give general information about diabetes and help the patient manage their diabetes. The course also introduces patients to a diabetes support system. A dietary consultation is required, and should be done before the classes begin. Please contact Linda Russell, RD/LD,CDE at 647-6062 to schedule an appointment.

Participants are encouraged to bring a relative or a friend with them. For more information about the program or to register call 207-647-6064.

07/13/2012

AARP Driver Safety Class June 18

An American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) driver safety class for drivers age 50 and older, sponsored by the Bridgton Hospital, will be presented from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Bridgton Community Center, 15 Depot St., Bridgton, Me., on Monday, June 18, 2012.

Registration is required by Mon., June 18, as class size is limited.

The registration fee is $12 for AARP members, $14 for others. To register, phone the Bridgton Community Center at 647-3116.

AARP Driver Safety is the nation’s first and largest classroom refresher course designed to meet the safety needs of experienced and mature drivers. It helps drivers learn about defensive driving, new traffic laws and rules of the road and it helps older drivers learn how to adjust to age-related changes in vision, hearing and reaction time. Drivers in Maine 55 years of age and older are entitled to discounts on their insurance premiums for three years after completing this course.

Bridgton Hospital is proud to sponsor a safety course intended to keep our senior drivers and their passengers safe on the roads.

06/07/2012

Bridgton Hospital Announces 2012 Winnie R. Moore RN Nurse of the Year Award Recipient

Lisa Charette-Heroux, RN, 2012 Winnie R. Moore Clinical Nursing Award recipient, with presentation bouquet. Also pictured are, left to right, Eric Gerchman MD, President of the Medical Staff, Priscilla Bickford RN, Nurse Pastor, and John Ludwig.
LARGE VERSION

In honor of National Nursing Week, John Ludwig, R.N., Vice-President of Administration, has today announced the 2012 recipient of the Winnie R. Moore, R.N., Clinical Nursing Award.

The 2012 winner is Lisa Charette-Heroux, RN, a member of the same-day surgery nursing staff. The medical staff of Bridgton Hospital determines the award.

Eric Gerchman, M.D., President of the Bridgton Hospital Medical Staff, made the announcement. Ms. Charette-Heroux was presented an engraved commemorative Revere pewter bowl. In addition, Leslie Hill, RN, the 2011 Winnie Moore Nurses Award recipient, handed down a candle in a simple wood candleholder representative of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing and the “Lady with the Lamp.”

Ms. Charette-Heroux will have her name added to the permanent plaque located on the Kendal and Anna Ham Inpatient Wing of the hospital. A resident of Fryeburg, she has been at Bridgton Hospital since 2005.

05/15/2012

Bridgton Hospital Nurse Attends Blaine House Reception In Recognition of National Nurses Week

John Ludwig, RN (left) Vice President of Administration, and nurses Donna Joyce RN/FA (right) and Ms. Laurie Willis, RN (center) attended the Blaine House Tea for Maine’s Nurses on May 8. National Nurses Week is celebrated May 6-12.
LARGE VERSION

In recognition of National Nurses Week, Donna Joyce, RN/FA, manager of surgical services, and Laurie Willis, RN, surgical services nurse, attended The Blaine House, Augusta, reception and tea for Maine’s nurses on Tuesday, May 8. An annual event sponsored by the Governor during this special recognition week, Bridgton Hospital nominates one nurse each year to attend the day with the manager of the selected individuals department.

05/10/2012

Bridgton Hospital Daisy Award Recipient Honored at Special Ceremony

Lori Stacy, RNC was presented The Daisy Award, in recognition of nursing excellence at Bridgton Hospital
LARGE VERSION

What is The Daisy Award? The DAISY Award honorees personify Bridgton Hospital’s remarkable patient experience. These nurses consistently demonstrate excellence through their clinical expertise and extraordinary compassionate care, and they are recognized as outstanding role models in our nursing community. The DAISY Award is an international program that rewards and celebrates the extraordinary clinical skill and compassionate nurses. Bridgton Hospital is proud to be a DAISY Award Partner.

Bridgton Hospital presented its second Daisy Award to Lori Stacy, RNC, on April 24. Ms. Stacy, a nurse in the obstetrics and CLC departments, is the epitome of excellence and compassion in patient care. Nominated by a colleague for this award, she is also a GEMS Award recipient, recognizing “her leadership, growth, community participation, peer support and excellence as a mentor”. In addition, Ms. Stacy was recognized specifically for her care of a dying patient’s dog, her coordination of a SKYPE baby delivery for a mother whose husband was in Afghanistan, and her assistance in the delivery of a pre-term infant.

The DAISY Foundation was established in Glen Ellen, California, in 1999 by the family of J. Patrick Barnes who died of complications of the auto-immune disease Idiopathic Thrombocytopenia Purpura (ITP) at the age of 33. (DAISY is an acronym for diseases attacking the immune system.) During Mr. Barnes eight week hospitalization, his family was awestruck by the care and compassion his nurses at his hospital provided not only to him but to everyone in his family. So one of the goals they set in creating a Foundation in his memory was to recognize extraordinary nurses everywhere who make an enormous difference in the lives of so many people by the super-human work they do everyday. In the fall of 2011, Bridgton Hospital joined The Daisy Foundation and hospitals across the country, in recognizing their nurses through this exceptional award.

Ms. Stacy, as a DAISY Award Honoree, was presented a bouquet of daisies, a DAISY certificate, a DAISY Award pin, and a hand-carved stone sculpture entitled A Healer’s Touch. Additionally, everyone in attendance celebrated with specially made cinnamon rolls. The significance of the cinnamon rolls is that Mr. Barnes especially enjoyed sharing cinnamon rolls with his nurses, and his family felt this should be a part of the ceremonies across the country.

05/03/2012

Bridgton Hospital Earns ACR Accreditation

Bridgton Hospital has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in mammography as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology (ACR). Mammography is a specific type of imaging test that uses a low-dose x-ray system to examine breasts. A mammography exam, called a mammogram, is used to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases in women.

The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. It is awarded only to facilities meeting ACR Practice Guidelines and Technical Standards after a peer-review evaluation by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. Image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures, and quality assurance programs are assessed. The findings are reported to the ACR Committee on Accreditation, which subsequently provides the practice with a comprehensive report they can use for continuous practice improvement.

The ACR is a national professional organization serving more than 34,000 diagnostic/interventional radiologists, radiation oncologists, nuclear medicine physicians, and medical physicists with programs focusing on the practice of medical imaging and radiation oncology and the delivery of comprehensive health care services.

05/03/2012

Bridgton Hospital to Sponsor Book Fair May 2 and 3

Bridgton Hospital will be the host site for a ‘Books are Fun’ Book Fair. The sale runs Wednesday, May 2, from 10AM to 4PM and Thursday, May 3, from 7AM to 3PM. Books are Fun is a Reader’s Digest Company.

A huge assortment of great new books, at savings of up to 70%, makes this an ideal time to purchase for year-round gift giving. A percentage of the book sale profits are donated to Bridgton Hospital Annual Fund, which benefits all areas of patient care at the not for profit hospital. For further details contact Pam Smith, Director of Development and Community Relations, 207-647-6055

04/25/2012

Bridgton Hospital Earns ACR Accreditation

04/25/2012

Bridgton Hospital Recognizes Volunteers

In addition to the delicious ice creams and toppings, Bridgton Hospital managers created a short THANKS skit to thank the volunteers.
LARGE VERSION

In recognition of National Volunteer Week 2012, Bridgton Hospital recognized its volunteers, the Bridgton Hospital Guild and Volunteer Angels, at an old-fashioned ice cream social, held on Thursday, April 19, at the hospital.

David Frum, President, opened the special event by welcoming the volunteers and acknowledging how critical their commitment is to the hospital. The Guild, which operates the Twitchell Café located on the campus, and the Thrift Shop, which is in downtown Bridgton, both provide exceptional service to our patients and visitors. The corp of Volunteer Angels, the in-hospital volunteers, provide clerical support in key areas throughout the hospital including administration, prescription assistance, specialty clinics, outpatient surgery, diabetes education, and in special projects like the Patient Shadowing and Patient Visitor Programs. According to Pamela Smith, director of development and community relations and volunteer coordinator, "Last year, volunteers provided nearly 11,000 hours of service to Bridgton Hospital. An exceptional commitment from these wonderful community members!"

04/21/2012

Bridgton Hospital Launches New Patient Care Story Telephone Line

Bridgton Hospital wants to hear your patient care story... in your words.

We invite you to call our “Share Your Care Story…Now!” telephone line at any time to share your patient story experience. Whether good or bad, complaint or compliment, we invite you to tell us in your own voice about your experience at any Bridgton Hospital service or community site. Our ultimate goal is to provide exceptional experiences for patients and their families. It’s important for us to know how we are doing!

How does it work? It’s simple. Dial the toll-free, 24-hour phone line at 1-855-CARENOW (1-855-227-3609) and leave your message when prompted. Your message will be listened to by the hospital’s Leadership Team and staff from the area in which you received services.

This service is as anonymous as you would like it to be. If you wish to leave your name, you may do so, but it is not required. Your message will be recorded and saved in our Administration office for internal use.

So, the next time you have an experience at a Bridgton Hospital facility - be it as a patient, visitor, or family member, give us a call to share your care experience story with us! We’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions about “Share Your Care Story…Now! “ - Please feel free to contact the Bridgton Hospital Guest Relations Office, Kathleen Wohlenberg, Director, at 207-647-6149.

04/11/2012

Bridgton Hospital has Preferred Status

On March 26, the Maine Health Management Coalition announced that Bridgton Hospital is a “tier 1” preferred hospital under the state of Maine employee health plan.

The coalition ranks hospitals in three weighted performance categories (care that experts recommend, systems to prevent medical errors, and patient experience) and in comparative costs.

Tier 1 preferred status means that patient co-pays are waived for some services for state employees and their dependants.

For more information about the Maine employee health plan, visit http://www.maine.gov/beh/

Bridgton Hospital, a not for profit, Critical Access Hospital, is part of the Central Maine Healthcare Family.

04/11/2012

Bridgton Hospital Diabetes Clinic to Offer Diabetes Education Program

The Bridgton Hospital Diabetes Clinic will sponsor its four-part Diabetes Education Program on April 18, 19, 23 and 25, from 6PM to 8PM. The sessions will be held in the Bridgton Hospital Boardroom.

Bridgton Hospital has received the prestigious American Diabetes Association Education Recognition Certificate for a quality diabetes self‑management education program.

The series requires physician referral and early registration is suggested due to its popularity (class size is limited to assure personal attention). Topics covered include: the importance of exercise and physical activity, healthy meal plans and diabetes, hypoglycemia signs and symptoms, medications to control diabetes, complications and diabetes, diabetes and eye care, and diabetes and proper foot care. Medicaid and most insurance plans cover the course registration fee.

In addition to Elaine Drew, RN/CDE, a registered nurse who is also a certified diabetes nurse educator (CDE), lecturers will include Bridgton Hospital professionals Denyell Gerchman, Pharmacist, Linda Russell, MA, RD/LD, CDE, Registered Dietician, Dr. N. Scott Ferguson, Optometrist, and Karen Bogdan, OT, Occupational Therapist. These classes are designed to give general information about diabetes and help the patient manage their diabetes. The course also introduces patients to a diabetes support system. A dietary consultation is required, and should be done before the classes begin. Please contact Linda Russell, RD/LD,CDE at 207-647-6062 to schedule an appointment.

Participants are encouraged to bring a relative or a friend with them. For more information about the program or to register call 207-647-6064, Elaine Drew, RN/CDE.

03/23/2012

Bridgton Hospital Guild Officers Cut Ribbon in New Hospital Rehabilitation Area

Sandra Weygandt, center, President of the Bridgton Hospital Guild, cut the ribbon, assisted by Nancy Donovan, Ph.D., PT, and John Ludwig, RN, Vice-President of Administration.
LARGE VERSION

On March 5, the Bridgton Hospital Guild Board of Directors precided over the ribbon cutting of the newly expanded rehabilitation area on the Inpatient Unit of the Bridgton Hospital. The Guild was instrumental in the creation of the space through their October 2011 donation of $42,000 to the hospital, restricted to the purchase of equipment for the area. According to Nancy Donovan, Ph.D., PT, manager of the Rehabilitation Department,

“ The new area is particularly important for patients in the hospital’s swing bed program, an program that gives patients who are ‘not quite ready’ to be discharged from the hospital, and return to their home, an opportunity to gain strength, mobility and agility.”

New equipment includes: electrically powered parallel bars, providing patients with stable and adjustable handrails to assist patients in regaining strength, balance, range of motion and independence in walking; an electrically powered mat exercise table, height adjustable, to allow for ease in wheelchair transfers; wood stairway to practice the use of stairs when at home; ramp and curb to practice community walking/ambulatory experiences; a recumbent bicycle, adjustable for each patient, with a swivel seat for ease in getting on and off; a Viking XL, equipment that is used to assist debilitated patients to go from sit to standing safely and to practice walking without danger of falling; specialized walker for Parkinson’s Disease patients, providing laser line targets on the ground to assist with walking; and a group of electronics to encourage exercise, including an X-Box, DVD player and large screen TV.

The Bridgton Hospital Guild is a not for profit organization that supports the Bridgton Hospital through various fundraising efforts including the Twitchell Café located on the hospital campus and the Guild Thrift Shop located on Main St., Bridgton. Run solely by hard working and dedicated volunteers, the organization plays a pivotal role in purchasing capital equipment for the hospital, making a yearly donation to the hospital. For Guild membership details check out www.bridgtonhospital.org

03/14/2012

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Colorectal Cancer Screening Saves Lives

Colorectal cancer is cancer that occurs in the colon or rectum. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the United State with an estimated 140,000 cases and over 49,000 deaths each year. Both men and women can get colorectal cancer. It is often found in people 50 or older and the risk increases with age.

Experts believe at least 60% of the colorectal cancer deaths could be avoided if everyone age 50 or older had regular screening tests. Colorectal cancer can start with no symptoms while some people do experience symptoms. Everyone age 50 or older (even younger if symptoms present or you have a family history of colorectal cancer) should speak to their physician about screening tests that could save your life.

More information go to:

http://www.cdc.gov/features/colorectalawareness/

http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/colorectal/pdf/Basic_FS_Eng_Color.pdf

03/09/2012

Bridgton Hospital Prescription Assistance Program

The Bridgton Hospital Prescription Assistance Program was established in 2005 to assist individuals that have no prescription insurance or cannot afford to purchase their medicines. In large part, these programs access free prescription medications provided by pharmaceutical manufacturers. By identifying the most appropriate source of assistance and by coordinating enrollment, these local resources will help ensure access to prescription medications by low-income residents. The Prescription Assistance Program was originally made possible through a grant from MedHelp Maine. MedHelp Maine was awarded a $200,000 Maine Health Access Foundation grant for development of community prescription assistance programs including the one at Bridgton Hospital.

Bridgton Hospital is pleased to be able to provide this service to the patients of Bridgton Hospital. Karen Mentus serves as the program coordinator. She is assisted with the help of three Bridgton Hospital ‘Volunteer Angels’, Kappy Springer, Helen Brown and Phyllis Ginzler.

For further information about the Prescription Assistance Program and/or to apply please contact Ms. Mentus at 207-647-6048 or Susan Rivet RN, specialty clinics director, at 207-647-6120.

02/23/2012

Bridgton Hospital Valentine-Gram's Benefit Emergency Fund

The Bridgton Hospital Employee Activity Committee held a 'Valentine-Gram' carnation delivery sale on Feb. 14 to benefit the Employee Emergency Financial Assistance Fund at the hospital. More than 350 carnation's were personally delivered throughout the hospital and provider practices, celebrating the special day! The committee raised $360.00 for the special fund.

02/19/2012

Bridgton Hospital Guild Thrift Shop Update

The Bridgton Hospital Guild Thrift Shop, conveniently located next to Reny’s on Main St. in Bridgton, will be holding their popular ‘End of Winter’ half-price sale starting Mon., March 5, at 10AM. The sale continues through Sat., March 10.

This is followed by their popular and dramatic ‘Fill-A-Bag’ for just $2.00 sale, from Mon., March 12 through Sat., March 17.

Also, starting March 5, they change to spring/summer hours and are open Monday through Friday, 10AM to 4PM, and Saturday 10AM to 1PM. They are closed Sunday.

The shop will be closed Mon. and Tues., March 19 and 20, and will reopen Wed.,
March 21 at 10AM restocked with springtime inventory.

The Bridgton Hospital Guild Thrift Shop is a not for profit fundraising project for the organization and all funds raised benefit the local hospital, Bridgton Hospital. The shop is run by a dedicated group of volunteers led by store manager, Emily Hammerle.

Bridgton Hospital, part of the CMMC Family, serves the Lakes Region Community of Maine as well as the Mt. Washington Valley of New Hampshire.

02/09/2012

Budget Cuts to Maine hospitals discussed at Legislator Breakfast

LARGE VERSION

Bridgton Hospital hosted an informational breakfast session with their area Legislative representatives on Fri., Feb. 3.

Senator David Hastings, Rep. Ralph Sarty, Rep. Richard Cebra and Rep. Paul Waterhouse joined David Frum, President, Bridgton Hospital, Chuck Gill, Vice President of Public Policy, John Ludwig RN, Vice-President of Administration, and Pamela Smith, Director, Community Relations and Development, for the early morning meeting.

The session was sobering and focused on the state budget process and the plan to cut $8.7 million from Central Maine Medical Center, $50 million in statewide hospital cuts, and the growing $400 million Maine Care debt. MaineCare currently owes more than $50 million for past services to the Central Maine Healthcare system, growing at approx. $1.3 million a month. Frum explained that Bridgton Hospital is the most cost-efficient hospital in the state, followed by Rumford Hospital (where he also serves as President), and that the Central Maine Healthcare system is the most cost efficient in the state. Cuts of this magnitude will mean significant job losses and elimination of services. The Legislators explained that the next two weeks will see decisions made on how to address the suggested cuts to Maine hospitals.

02/09/2012

First Born 2012 Welcomed at Bridgton Hospital

The first baby born at Bridgton Hospital in 2012 is Lucia Rose Riane, daughter of Megan M. Mesina and Kevin P. Riane of Bridgton. Lucia Rose was born on Friday, Jan. 6. According to her mother, “We will call her LuLu, a name our youngest daughter suggested!”

Lucia Rose joins her siblings, Journey Brooke Riane, 2, Tez Mariah Cole, 16, Corey Riane, 21, Danielle Riane, 22.

Maternal Grandparents are Peggy Mose and Jeri Norten, Salisbury MA. Paternal Grandparents are Margaret Riane and the late Robert Riane, Billerica MA. Great Grandparent is Margaret Glavin, Melrose, MA

Baby and mom were presented a number of gifts from Bridgton Hospital, the Bridgton Hospital Physicians Group and the Bridgton Hospital Guild.

01/27/2012

'Biggest Losers' at Bridgton Hospital

A group of 21 employees at Bridgton Hospital and the Bridgton Hospital Physician Group have decided to take weight loss into their own hands and are participating in their own 'Biggest Losers' effort, motivating each other through weekly meetings to continue on the path to their goal of losing weight in the New Year. The group has set a goal of losing 750 pounds over 16 weeks, with a loss of about 2 lbs. per person, per week.

Some of the participants have come up with their own helpful motivating mottos, including: “I want to be fit at fifty”, “I want to look fab for my grad”, and “I’m shedding for the wedding” - all geared towards helping them reach their goal.

According to Jackie Thibeau, a leader of the group, "We are all helping each other and hope that along with weight loss we also learn that this is really a lifestyle change not a diet. Eating right and exercise are the keys components to being a happier, healthier you!"

01/27/2012

Bridgton Hospital Daisy Award Recipient Honored at Special Ceremony

What is The Daisy Award? The DAISY Award honorees personify Bridgton Hospital’s remarkable patient experience. Nurses honored consistently demonstrate excellence through their clinical expertise and extraordinary compassionate care, and they are recognized as outstanding role models in our nursing community. The DAISY Award is an international program that rewards and celebrates the extraordinary clinical skill and compassionate care of nurses. Bridgton Hospital is proud to be a DAISY Award Partner.

The first Bridgton Hospital receipient, Leslie Hill RN, is the epitomy of excellence in patient care. She was selected from amongst seven anonymous nominations reviewed by a committee of her peers. A Daisy honoree is nominated because they consistently meet all of the following criteria: Compassion, Patient and family focused care, Patient advocacy, Support of all members of the healthcare team,Serving as a role model for the nursing profession, Critical thinking skills, and Passionate about life.

The DAISY Foundation was established in Glen Ellen, California, in 1999 by the family of J. Patrick Barnes who died of complications of the auto-immune disease Idiopathic Thrombocytopenia Purpura (ITP) at the age of 33. (DAISY is an acronym for diseases attacking the immune system.) During Mr. Barnes eight week hospitalization, his family was awestruck by the care and compassion his nurses at his hospital provided not only to him but to everyone in his family. So one of the goals they set in creating a Foundation in his memory was to recognize extraordinary nurses everywhere who make an enormous difference in the lives of so many people by the super-human work they do everyday. In the fall of 2011, Bridgton Hospital joined The Daisy Foundation, and hospital's across the country, in recognizing their nurses through this exceptional award.

Ms. Hill, as a DAISY Award Honoree, was presented a bouquet of daisies, a DAISY certificate, a DAISY Award pin, and a hand-carved stone sculpture entitled A Healer’s Touch. Additionally, everyone in attendance celebrated with specially made cinnamon rolls. The significance of the cinnamon rolls is that Mr. Barnes especially enjoyed sharing cinnamon rolls with his nurses, and his family felt this should be a part of the ceremonies across the country.

01/27/2012

Bridgton Hospital Celebrates Nurse Anesthetist Week

Brighton Hospital celebrates National Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Week January 22-28, 2012.

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA) are advanced practice nurses who administer approximately 30 million anesthetics per year in the United States. CRNAs are the sole anesthesia providers at Bridgton Hospital and nearly all rural hospitals in America and have been the primary providers to the military since world war one.

Thomas Nolan CRNA and Ibra (Chip) Ripley CRNA MSNA are employed by Bridgton Hospital. The services they provide include anesthesia for surgery and special procedures, acute pain management, epidural analgesia for labor and delivery and airway management for resuscitation. All services are available 24 hours a day.

Nolan and Ripley are members of the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists, the Maine Association of Nurse Anesthetists and are adjunct clinical faculty at the University of New England School of Nurse Anesthesia. Bridgton Hospital serves as a clinical practice site for the UNE.

In 2011, Nolan was named the first recipient of the first St. Rene ‘Clinical Instructor of the Year Award’ by the University of New England, an award established to recognize the value of the clinical instructors to the nurse anesthesia program at the college.

Both CRNA’s are residents of the Lakes Region community and are committed to providing high quality, compassionate anesthesia care to all patients referred to them.

01/13/2012

Who Will Be Bridgton Hospital’s First Born 2012?

A long-standing tradition at Bridgton Hospital is to honor the first baby born at the hospital in the New Year by showering both baby and mother with gifts from local merchants. The ‘First Born 2012’ program starts its ‘baby watch’ at midnight, January 1, 2012.

Merchants interested in being a part of this wonderful way to start the New Year are encouraged to contact the community relations and development office at 647-6055 or e-mail at psmith@bh.cmhc.org. Merchant donations will be recognized when the New Year baby and family are announced and featured in a press releases and photographs in January 2012.

12/28/2011

Bridgton Hospital Nurse Anesthetist Named Clinical Instructor of the Year

Thomas Nolan, CRNA, a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists at Bridgton Hospital, has been named the recipient of the St. Rene ‘Clinical Instructor of the Year Award’ by the University of New England. The presentation was made at the November 5th Class of 2011 commencement exercises for the University of New England Graduate School of Nurse Anesthesia.

This is the first year for the award which has been established to recognize the value of the clinical instructors to the nurse anesthesia program. Mr. Nolan was given the award because of his didactic as well as clinical participation in student education. St. Rene was designated as the patron saint of nurse anesthetists in 1951 at the St. Mary's Hospital School of Nurse Anesthetists in Wausau, Wisconsin.

The school of anesthesia for nurses has clinical sites throughout the New England states including Bridgton Hospital, Central Maine Medical Center, Eastern Maine Medical Center, Maine Medical Center, University of Massachusetts, and Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. Other states where they have sites include Florida, Wisconsin and Maryland.

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) represent a long-standing commitment to high standards in a demanding field. CRNAs were one of the first nursing groups to specialize beyond general nursing. They provide one-on-one care to their patients before, during and after surgery, delivering quality anesthesia and pain management services for surgical and obstetrical procedures combined with a personal concern for the health and welfare of the individual. Today, there are more than 45,000 CRNAs nationwide.

Tom has been a nurse anesthetist for 28 years and has been practicing at Bridgton Hospital since 2006. He is a resident of Bridgton.

11/17/2011

Bridgton Hospital Diabetes Clinic to Offer Diabetes Self-Management Education Program

The Bridgton Hospital Diabetes Clinic will sponsor its three-part Diabetes Education Program on Nov. 29 and 30, and Dec. 6, from 8:30AM to 11:30AM. The first session only is from 8:30AM to 10:30AM. The sessions will be held in the Bridgton Hospital Cafeteria Conference Room.

Bridgton Hospital has received the prestigious American Diabetes Association Education Recognition Certificate for a quality diabetes self‑management education program.

The series requires physician referral and early registration is suggested due to its popularity (class size is limited to assure personal attention). Topics covered include: the importance of exercise and physical activity, healthy meal plans and diabetes, hypoglycemia signs and symptoms, medications to control diabetes, complications and diabetes, diabetes and eye care, and diabetes and proper foot care. Medicaid and most insurance plans cover the course registration fee.

In addition to Elaine Drew, RN/CDE, a registered nurse who is also a certified diabetes nurse educator (CDE), lecturers will include Bridgton Hospital professionals Denyell Gerchman, Pharmacist, Linda Russell, MA, RD/LD, CDE, Registered Dietician, Susan Cooper, RN, CDE and Karen Bogdan, OT, Occupational Therapist. These classes are designed to give general information about diabetes and help the patient manage their diabetes. The course also introduces patients to a diabetes support system. A dietary consultation is required, and should be done before the classes begin. Please contact Linda Russell, RD/LD,CDE at 647-6062 to schedule an appointment.

Participants are encouraged to bring a relative or a friend with them. For more information about the program or to register call 207-647-6064, Elaine Drew, RN/CDE

11/10/2011

A Veteran's Day Creation Made with Love

Bridgton Hospital employee Tami Kelley, who serves as the director of the Bridgton Hospital Physician Group has crafted a quilt with much love and patriotism for her youngest son, Bryan Kelley, a member of the USAF.

The king size quilt started out as a beginner's table runner project in a quilting class. However, by the third week of class, according to Ms. Kelley, "I decided it needed to become a special quilt for my son." A few weeks later her son was assigned to Afghanistan, leaving in January 2011. Ms. Kelley continued her diligent work making the beautiful and detailed quilt, finishing it in September, just as Bryan Kelley returned and was assigned to Arkansas. Bryan, who has seen the quilt on Facebook states, "I put a flag over my bed when I got out of Basic Training, so I could sleep under the American flag. Now I'll be able to sleep under it as well."

Bryan Kelley, USAF, returns home at Christmas this year and will sleep in the Kelley's North Bridgton home, under this patriotic quilt, for the first time. He will then return to Arkanss with it for his continued duty to his country.

"To all of our brave men and women defending our country, I salute you and thank you from the bottom of my heart. Please know, your nation is grateful for your sacrifices and those of your families," says Ms. Kelley.

All of us at Bridgton Hospital agree!

11/10/2011

Bridgton Hospital Nurse Elected President of New England Region Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society

Karen Harding, RN, MSN,CS,CWON, Quality and Magnet Coordinator at Bridgton Hospital, has been elected President of the New England Region Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (New England Region WOCN). This is an association of WOC/ET Nurses, a division of the National Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurse's Society (WOCN).

The purpose of this organization is to both organize and sponsor educational opportunities, support leadership and professional development, encourage evidenced based nursing practice and serve as advocates for the delivery of quality health care to all individuals with a wound, ostomy or continence related issue.

Wound, Ostomy & Continence Nurses practice in a variety of settings, and offer a tremendous amount of technical assistance, comfort and support to patients and their families. They are trained to address the physical, emotional and social issues of patients with ostomies, stomas, acute and chronic wounds, and urinary and fecal incontinence.

The Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society™ (WOCN®) is a professional nursing society that supports its members by promoting educational, clinical, and research opportunities to advance the practice and guide the delivery of expert health care to individuals with wounds, ostomies, and incontinence.

Ms. Harding, a resident of Bridgton, has been a nurse at Bridgton Hospital since 1999. In addition to her role as a nurse at Bridgton Hospital, she currently serves as President of the Greater Bridgton Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce.

11/10/2011

Radon – What’s Under Your Feet?

LARGE VERSION

Joanne Harrison, RN, BSN, is a candidate for a Master's Degree in Nursing and Healthcare Education through Saint Joseph's College of Maine. A nurse for over 26 years, she has spent 20 years working in homecare and hospice in Maine and New Hampshire. Joanne currently is a nursing instructor at Intercoast Career Institute in S. Portland, Me., and is working with her colleague, Bobbi Cribby RN, BSN, Clinical Coordinator at Bridgton Hospital, to increase radon awareness in the Lakes Region community.

Radon is a radioactive gas that occurs naturally as a breakdown product of uranium from rocks and soil. Radon enters homes and buildings through foundations, floors, walls, and gaps around pipes. High levels can occur in ANY type of home. Radon is also sometimes present in water from ground sources and can be released into air during showering, etc., or can be ingested in drinking water. Very small amounts of radon can also be present in some building materials.

Radon is typically measured in picocuries/per liter (pCi/l), or the amount of radiation it gives off. The EPA advises that actions should be taken to reduce radon when air levels are over 4 pCi/l, but strongly recommends measures should be taken for levels over 2pCi/l. Action is recommended for water radon levels over 4000pCi/l.

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in general and the FIRST leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Radon has also been linked to other types of cancers, primarily those in the gastrointestinal system. According to the EPA, about 20,000 deaths per year occur in the USA as a result of breathing radon in indoor air and approx. 168/year occur from radon in water.

Maine has significantly higher than national rates of rates of lung, esophageal, colon, bladder, and other cancers, yet we rank 25th in the nation in terms of adult smoking frequency. There is an additive risk however, if you smoke and have high radon levels. Your risk of getting lung cancer is almost 9 times greater than if you never smoked and have high levels of radon.

Maine ranks very high in radon levels. Most of Maine, including Cumberland, Oxford, and Androscoggin counties are categorized as a Zone 1, the highest ranking given, with average radon levels of above 4pCi/l. Cumberland County has an average is 8.9pCi/l, more than double the level when action is needed.

All homes should be tested for radon in air. Homes with private ground water sources should also test for radon in water. Homes with public water supplies should contact their supplier and ask if it has been tested for radon. Private homeowners can easily test your home yourself or you can hire a registered radon tester. If your home is for sale you cannot test it yourself. You must hire a state registered radon tester.

Testing yourself is simple and inexpensive. Air screening kits can be obtained at many hardware and department stores, as well as various sites on line for about $12-15. Kits for both air and water are also available through the Maine Health and Environmental Testing Lab for $30. Most kits include lab fees and postage in the price and testing takes only a few days to complete.

Homes with high radon levels require mitigation to reduce the risk of getting cancer. The cost of mitigation methods varies on average from $800-4500, depending on the type of home, foundation, and water system. In Maine, new construction now must have passive radon reduction systems in place, but homes still need to be tested. If levels are high, fans can be added for about $300.

What’s under your feet? You can’t smell radon or taste it. Test your home today. Saving your life and the life of your family begins from the ground up.

For more information on Radon, testing, and mitigation, you can contact Joanne Harrison, RN at garboh@yahoo.com or 207-671-9386 or contact Maine Center for Disease Control Radon Control Program at 1-800-232-0842 or http://www.maine.gov/dhhs/eng/rad/Radon/hp_radon.htm

Other links:

EPA 1-800-767-7238 or http://www.epa.gov/radon/pubs/index.html.

For a list of state registered radon testers or mitigation contractors call 1-800-232-0842 or For testers: http://www.maine.gov/dhs/eng/rad/radon/testers.pdf

For contractors: http://www.maine.gov/dhhs/eng/rad/Radon/mitigators.pdf

To order test kits from Maine Health and Environmental Lab: http://www.informe.org/cgi-bin/shopping/cart.pl?catalogPage=pageCat

11/03/2011

Bridgton Hospital and Physician Group Recognize 440 Years of Service at Annual Award Ceremony

LARGE VERSION

On Oct. 18, 2011 at the Olde Mill in Harrison, Bridgton Hospital honored employees for a combined total of 440 years of dedicated service to the hospital and physician practices. David Frum, President, served as Master of Ceremonies for the evening reception and dinner event, welcoming the staff and their guest and praising their exemplary professional commitment to the hospital. Philip Libby, President of the Board of Directors, lauded the employees for their outstanding patient care and customer service skills. Attending honorees were presented special gifts by their department manager based on their 5+ years of service.

Sally Dunning RN, Medical/Surgical unit, and Kathleen Wohlenberg, Social Services and Guest Relations, were the most senior honorees for the evening, having served Bridgton Hospital for thirty years.

Congratulations to the following Bridgton Hospital and Bridgton Hospital Physician Group employees honored for their combined 440 years of service:

30 Year Recipients

Sally Dunning, RN-Med Surg

Kathy Wohlenberg, Director-Social Services, Guest Relations

25 Year Recipients

Diane Baker, RN-Maternity

Lisa Chase, RN-Emergency Department

Shirley Field, Medical Record Clerk-HIM

20 Year Recipients

Martha Denison, RN-Operating Room

Heidi Mercer, RN-Operating Room

Pamela Smith, Director-Development/Community Relations

Katy Sperl, HR Manager-Human Resources

15 Year Recipients

Jill Hobbs, RN-Clinic Administration

Maggie Parmelee, Medical Staff Coordinator-Medical Affairs

Erika Roy, RN; Clinical Coordinator-Emergency Department

10 Year Recipients

Susan Barrett, Food Service Aide-Food Services

Dr. Hans Boedeker, Oncology/Hemotology Specialty Clinic

Donna Durgin, LPN; Clinical Coordinator-OB GYN

John Ludwig, RN; Vice President-Administration

Paula Morse, Lead Mammography Tech-Diagnostic Xray

Sherilee Stone, Cert Surgical Tech-Operating Room

Emily Ward, RN-Clinical Coordinator; Fryeburg Family Medicine

5 Year Recipients

Kayla Baker, RN-Emergency Department

Chris Balchunas, RN; Quality Data Analyst-Quality Services

Angie Barker, Med Lab Technician-Pathology

Wendi Bassett, RN-Med Surg

Linda Blake, RN-Oncology/Hemotology Specialty Clinic

Nikki Bois, Envir Service Aide-Environmental Services

Kaytee Chadbourne, Envir Service Aide-Environmental Services

Lisa Charette, RN-Same Day Surgery

Debra Chicoin, Speciality Coder-Coding

Gayle Elliot, Lead Lab Tech-Pathology

Bob Erskine, CNA-Med Surg

Heather Fox, Resp Care Practitioner-Respiratory Therapy

Dr. Eric Gerchman-Fryeburg Family Medicine

Jessica Jendrick, Administrative Assistant-Clinic Administration

Bob Leonard, Envir Service Tech-Environmental Services

Valerie Loan, RN-Med Surg

Michelle Lucas, RN-Med Surg

Tom Nolan, CRNA-Anesthesiology

Brenda Pettinicco, RN-Med Surg

Renata Rolfe, Patient Services Rep-OB GYN

Lori Stacy, RN-Maternity

Evawn Young, RN-Med Surg

11/03/2011

Bridgton Hospital Nurse Elected President for Organization of Maine Nurse Executives

LARGE VERSION

Bobbi Cribby, BSN, MS, Director of Clinical Practice at Bridgton Hospital, has been elected President of OMNE, the Organization of Maine Nurse Executives, a professional organization of nursing leaders in Maine who directs the course for nursing by promoting sound health care policies within their organizations and at the state, local and national level.

As Director of Clinical Practice at Bridgton Hospital, Ms. Cribby is responsible for management of clinical initiatives, including project management, evidence-based practice quality and regulatory oversight.

A graduate of Mercy School of Nursing, Ms. Cribby received her BSN from St. Joseph’s College and her MS in Healthcare Administration from New England College. She joined the Bridgton Hospital nursing staff in 1971 and has served in numerous roles during her tenure. She is a resident of Naples.

11/03/2011

Bridgton Hospital to Offer Free Partnership for Quitting Smoking

LARGE VERSION

Have you wanted to quit smoking but don't know where to get free assistance and support?

Bridgton Hospital will be offering a free stop smoking class starting in November. The class will be offered Nov. 8, 15, 22 and 29, from 6 to 8PM, at the hospital.

Learn how to quit smoking to become healthier and happier. Learn how to deal with triggers and let your healthcare provider be a support for you. The sessions will help you to understand why you smoke and develop coping strategies to quit. Presentors are Sue Rivet, RN, Director of Oncology and Outpatient Specialty Clinics at Bridgton Hospital and Deborah Ripley, MSHS.

To register for the class please call 207-647-6120.

11/03/2011

Bridgton Hospital Guild Presents Annual Gift

LARGE VERSION

The Annual Meeting of the Bridgton Hospital Guild was held at the Campfire Grille Restaurant, Bridgton, on Thursday, Oct. 20, 2011.

The Guild President, Sandra Weygandt, presided over the gathering of members and guests. Guests included Bridgton Hospital President, R. David Frum, Philip Libby, Chairman of the Board of Directors, John Ludwig, Vice President of Administration, Pamela Smith, Director of Development and Community Relations, and Marie Paul, Administration Secretary. Special Guest Speaker for the event was Commissioner Sawin Millett, a member of the Governor’s Cabinet and Commissioner of the State of Maine Department of Administrative and Financial Services.

Officers elected included at the meeting include: President, Sandra Weygandt; 1st Vice-President, Fern Twitchell; Terry Curns, 2nd Vice-President; Marge Blaney, 3rd Vice-President; Sherry Morrison, Corresponding Secretary; Diana Fallon, Treasurer; Phyllis Ginzler, Secretary.

Commissioner Millett was introduced by Phyllis Ginzler, Guild secretary. Mr. Millet has served as a Commissioner or Associate Commissioner in the Administrations of Governors Longley, McKernan, and King and has also been a leader on the Legislature’s budget writing Appropriations Committee as a House Member from Waterford, Maine. Commissioner Millett, a graduate of Bates College whose home is in Waterford, has the significant job of guiding Maine through a challenging economic climate.

To conclude the event, Mrs. Weygandt presented the Guild gift of $42,000 to Mr. Frum and Bridgton Hospital. The funds will be used to purchase rehabilitation equipment for the planned expansion of the swing bed rehabilitation area of the inpatient unit. This is the largest annual gift from the Guild since their annual gift in 1992, the 75th anniversary of the hospital.

11/03/2011

Bridgton Hospital Requires Employee Flu Shots

LARGE VERSION

Bridgton Hospital employees must get flu shots or wear masks when within 6' of a patient, according to a new policy that has a goal of reducing the chances that patients will get the flu from health-care workers.

The program of requiring masks will be effective on Nov. 1 because a confirmed case of influenza has been identified within the region.

Bridgton Hospital and Central Maine Medical Center recently changed their policies based on new national recommendations.

Although Bridgton Hospital, and many hospitals, have long had voluntary flu shot programs for employees, a recommendation from the American Hospital Association, distributed to hospitals throughout the US last July, recommended that universal flu shot programs be instituted. The policy requires those who do not get shots to wear masks when within 6' of a patient when a confirmed case of influenza has been identified in the community.

"We are committed to providing excellent care and outcomes for every patient," notes Helen Twombly, RN, Infection Preventionist at Bridgton Hospital and major supporter of the policy change. "This will help insure we do."

11/03/2011

'Pump It Up' Heart Failure Education Series

Offered by Bridgton Hospital

Bridgton Hospital will offer a series of free public educational programs entitled 'Pump It Up', a series focusing on heart failure, starting Thurs., Nov. 3, and continuing Nov. 10 and Nov. 17. The free series of classes will run from 3 to 5PM in the Bridgton Hospital Physician Group Conference Room, conveniently located in the former hospital building on Hospital Drive. June Inman, RN and Nancy Murphy, RN, both nursing members of the Bridgton Hospital (ICU) Intensive Care Unit will host the program.

Heart failure is a condition in which the heart can no longer pump enough blood to the rest of the body. Symptoms of heart failure often begin slowly. At first, they may only occur when you are very active. Over time, you may notice breathing problems and other symptoms even when you are resting.Heart failure symptoms may also begin suddenly; for example, after a heart attack or other heart problem. Common symptoms are: cough, fatigue, weakness, faintness, loss of appetite, need to urinate at night, pulse that feels fast or irregular, or a sensation of feeling the heart beat (palpitations), shortness of breath when you are active or after you lie down, swollen (enlarged) liver or abdomen, swollen feet and ankles, waking up from sleep after a couple of hours due to shortness of breath, and weight gain.

'Pump It Up' topics covered on Nov. 3 will include Disease Process, Signs and Symptons with Alan Langburd, M.D., cardiologist from Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute, and Respiratory Health, Energy Conservation and Oxygen Use with Gloria Morris, Respiratory Therapist.

The Nov. 10 program will be Medication and Heart Failure. The session will be presented by Bryan Thompson, R.Pharm. In addition, Psychosocial Aspects will be offered by Ms. Inman and Ms. Murphy.

The series concludes on Nov. 17 with Diet and Your Heart Health, presented by Linda Russell, Registered/Licensed Dietitian, and Exercise and Activity Tolerance with Nancy Donovan, Ph.D., Physical Therapy.

For questions please contact Ms. June Inman or Ms. Nancy Murphy at 207-647-6000. Pre-registration is not required.

10/19/2011

Bridgton Hospital Receives Prestigious International Award

Baby-Friendly® Birth Facility

Bridgton Hospital is pleased to announce that they have been awarded the prestigious international recognition as a Baby-Friendly® birth facility. Bridgton Hospital is the first Critical Access Hospital in Maine to been designated Baby-Friendly and one of just 116 nationwide to obtain the recognition.

According to Crystal Drew, RN, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and obstetrics clinical coordinator, "Baby-Friendly USA is the U.S. authority for the implementation of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (?BFHI?), a global program sponsored by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children?s Fund (UNICEF)." Ms. Drew continues, "The initiative encourages and recognizes hospitals and birthing centers that offer an optimal level of care for breastfeeding mothers and their babies. Based on the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding, this prestigious international award recognizes birth facilities that offer breastfeeding mothers the information, confidence, and skills needed to successfully initiate and continue breastfeeding their babies. The entire staff of the Special Delivery Family Birthing Center at Bridgton Hospital committed to pursuing this rigorous certification process to obtain this important designation for the babies and mothers of our commuity."

Bridgton Hospital becomes the fifth Maine hospital that is designated Baby Friendly, including Central Maine Medical Center, York Hospital, Maine General and Miles Memorial Hospital.

There are more than 19,000 designated Baby-Friendly hospitals and birth centers worldwide and 116 in the US. The ?Baby-Friendly? designation is given after an intense on-site survey is completed. The award is maintained by continuing to practice the Ten Steps as demonstrated by quality processes.

The Special Delivery Family Birthing Center provides all-private birthing suites, including jacuzzi tubs, and features in-room sleeping accomodations for dads or family. For full details about the obstetrics unit, including childbirth and breastfeeding classes and breastfeeding support group schedules, please visit www.bridgtonhospital.org or contact Ms. Drew at 207-647-6130. Further information about the U.S. Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative may be obtained by visiting their website at www.babyfriendlyusa.org.

09/20/2011

Bridgton Hospital Celebrates

365 Days with No CAUTI Infections

Bridgton Hospital is proud to announce that due to its efforts to improve quality and patient care standards, the facility has not had a hospital-acquired Catheter Associated Urinary Tract Infection (CAUTI) in the past year. Urinary tract infections are a common hospital-acquired infection that account for approximately 40% of all hospital-acquired conditions. It is estimated that up to 25% of inpatients have a catheter placed while being cared for in the hospital, and over 50% of them are unnecessary.

According to Jill Rollins RN, Inpatient Manager, "This is something everyone should be very proud of. You have all done a wonderful job ensuring our patients receive the best care possible. Truly a tribute to each and everyone of you and the outstanding standards we set for the care we provide!"

Larry Hopperstead, M.D. sent along his note of congratulations to the staff, "Congratulations to each and everyone of you for caring enough to put out the effort leading to this exceptional achievement. You have learned from and helped each other, been consistent advocates for the attention to detail that this demands, and most importantly, become the "silent heroes" to multiple patients who have survived their hospitalization without acquiring this potentially life-changing infection. Your work has just begun---maintain your focus---but take a few moments to celebrate your success. Even though no longer directly involved in your project, I am proud of you all."

The staff celebrated with a hospital wide pizza party.

06/15/2011

ecomaine eco-Excellence Award for Bridgton Hospital

March 22 Presentation in Portland

Bridgton Hospital received the ecomaine eco-Excellence Award for the town of Bridgton on Tues., March 22, at a special awards presentation and luncheon sponsored by ecomaine, which is located in Portland.

The Bridgton Hospital Recycling Committee efforts, including members Kate Fitzcharles, Martha Denison, Carol Miller, Linda Allen, Trina Sanborn, Florence Ward, Leslie Hill, Chipper Wiggin, Helen Trombly, Joanne Mclaughlin, Sherrill Brown and Karen Mentus, have been responsible for the honor. Bridgton Hospital is being recognized "for their eco-friendly efforts setting a positive and practical example for others to emulate." This is the sixth year for the awards and Bridgton Hospital is the first hospital to be recognized. Committee member Martha Denison submitted the nomination.

There are a total of 40 municipalities who were eligible to be honored with an eco-Excellence Award, including citizens, businesses or organizations. ecomaine is a non-profit, municipally owned and operated recycling and waste-to-energy operation owned by 21 communities and serving an additional 19 communities through contractual agreements.

The hospital was in great company as organizations including Goodwill Industries, Gritty McDuff's, Wolfe's Neck Farm and Nappi Distributors were also recipients of eco-Excellence Awards.

03/10/2011

Hospital 'Dome' Lighted in Blue Floodlights

March is National Colorectal Awareness Month

Bridgton Hospital will be 'lighting the dome' of their main hospital entrance in blue lights in recognition of March as National Colorectal Awareness Month. In addition, on Friday, March 4, the hospital will join the Colon Cancer Alliance by encouraging employees to 'wear blue' in recognition of the importance of colorectal cancer screenings. The Dempsey Center for Cancer, Hope and Healing will display an information table at the hospital and will provide 'blue ribbons' of awareness for visitors and staff to wear.

Information provided by the Center for Communicable Diseases notes that among cancers that affect both men and women, colorectal cancer?cancer of the colon or rectum?is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Colorectal cancer also is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in the United States. The risk of developing colorectal cancer increases with advancing age. More than 90% of cases occur in people aged 50 or older.

Colorectal cancer screening saves lives. However, many people who are at risk for the disease are not being screened according to national guidelines. It is estimated that as many as 60% of colorectal cancer deaths could be prevented if all men and women aged 50 years or older were screened routinely. In most cases, colorectal cancer develops from precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum. Screening tests can find precancerous polyps, so that they can be removed before they turn into cancer. Screening tests also can find colorectal cancer early, when treatment works best. Some studies show that increased physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight may decrease the risk for colorectal cancer. Evidence is less clear about other ways to prevent colorectal cancer. Currently, there is no consensus on the role of diet in preventing colorectal cancer, but medical experts recommend a diet low in animal fats and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grain products to reduce the risk of other chronic diseases, such as coronary artery disease and diabetes. In addition, researchers are examining the role of certain medications and supplements, including aspirin, calcium, vitamin D, and selenium, in preventing colorectal cancer. While these supplements may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, the most effective way to reduce your risk is by having regular colorectal cancer screening tests beginning at age 50.

You should begin screening for colorectal cancer soon after turning 50, then continue getting screened at regular intervals. However, you may need to be tested earlier or more often than other people if you or a close relative have had colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer or you have inflammatory bowel disease.

If you are aged 50 or older, or think you may be at increased risk for colorectal cancer, speak with your doctor about getting screened.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends screening for colorectal cancer for all people until they reach 75 years old and for some people when they are older than 75. If you are in this age group, ask your doctor if you should be screened.
Several tests are available to screen for colorectal cancer. Some are used alone; others are used in combination with each other. Talk with your doctor about which test or tests are best for you. These screening tests are recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force: Colonoscopy (every 10 years), high-sensitivity fecal occult blood test (FOBT) (every year), flexible sigmoidoscopy (every 5 years).
Talk to your primary care provider today. Bridgton Hospital is fortunate to have an excellent gastroenterologist on staff, Stuart Eisenberg, M.D.. With your providers? referral, your screening colonoscopy can be scheduled in as soon as two weeks.
Stuart Eisenberg, M.D., Central Maine Gastroenterology and member of the Bridgton Hospital medical staff, is located on the campus of Bridgton Hospital. If you have further questions, or to have your provider schedule an appointment for your screening colonoscopy, please call 207-647-6240.

02/25/2011

Heart to Heart Conference

Feb. 26 at Bridgton Hospital

The Central Maine Medical Family and the Central Maine Heart and Vascular
Institute (CMHVI) will host the 11th Annual ?A Heart to Heart? Heart Disease
Conference on Saturday, February 26. Bridgton Hospital will feature the keynote
lectures as a video conference followed by on-site stretching exercises, heart healthy
Mediterranean cooking information and taste testings.

The free program runs from 8:00AM to noon and will be offered in the Bridgton Hospitalboardroom, located in the main lobby. Preregistration is required due to limited seating.

Two Keynote Speakers are featured. ?Metabolic Syndrome: A Chronic Illness Conspiracy?? presented by Katarina Latkovich, M.D., Central Maine Internal Medicine and ?Peripheral Artery Disease And Rehabilitation? by Allan Ingraham, M.D., Central Maine Cardiovascular Surgery.

Dr Latkovich?s presentations discusses a ?set? of conditions ? unhealthy blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and body shape ? that can work against you in a condition called Metabolic Syndrome. Metabolic Syndrome increases your risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Learn how lifestyle changes can delay or even present the development of serious health problems.

Following this speaker, Dr. Ingraham?s lecture focuses on leg pain or aching, which may be a sign of Peripheral Artery Disease or PAD, a common circulatory problem in which hardening and narrowing of the arteries ? atherosclerosis ? obstructs blood flow to limbs. PAD may also reduce blood flow to the heart and brain. Dr. Ingraham will describe symptoms of this condition and discuss how PAD is diagnosed and treated.

Following the two keynote speakers, Nancy C. Rich, Ph.D., PT, FACSM, physical therapist at Bridgton Hospital and expert on women?s health and women?s physical therapy, will lead the audience in stretching exercise that are easy and effective.

Also featured at the event will be Bridgton Hospital professionals Linda Russell, RD/LD, Dietician, and Carol iller, Dietary Director.

Ms. Russell and Ms. Miller will concentrate their presentations on ?The Mediterranean Diet?. A traditional Mediterranean diet has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease. Ms. Russell will explain the Mediterranean diet, its philosophies, and how adopting it can mean delicious healthful meals that are good for you. Their interesting presentation includes a heart healthy Mediterranean cooking demonstration and taste testing, plus recipes.

For more information or to register for the Bridgton Hospital program please call 207-647-6055.
Registration deadline is Monday, Feb. 21.

02/01/2011

Grandparents??Have Class!

Grandparenting Class Feb. 12

LARGE VERSION

The Special Delivery Family Birthing Center at Bridgton Hospital is offering a new course on newborn care, geared towards new and ?to-be? grandparents. The free class will be held Saturday, February 12, from 1 to 3PM, at the hospital.

When it comes to newborn care, much has changed in the last two to three decades. This class will give all grandparents the opportunity to talk with trained professionals about birthing and parenting changes through the generations.

Many infant care guidelines have changed. Pediatricians now tell parents to lay their infant on their backs to avoid Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Another change grandparents might be unaware of is no more baby powder when diapering ? inhaling baby powder can lead to respiratory problems.

Topics covered will include: baby care and infant feeding, swaddling an infant, safety concerns, and ideas for how to share in the family experience and enhance intergenerational bonding.

Come join us and explore some new ideas on how to make the most of this family adventure!

Our teachers for this class include Diane Baker RN and Joanne McLaughlin RN. Diane Baker, RN, BSN, is a member of the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses. She is ACLS, NRP, and STABLE certified. Diane has been an RN for thirty-five years. She is a mom of two and has been employed at Bridgton Hospital for 33 years. Joanne McLaughlin RN, CLC (Certified Lactation Counselor), has been an RN for
twenty-eight years, fifteen years in obstetrics. ACLS, NRP, and ENP certified, she is a mother of 3 and grandmother of 4 (including 16-month old twins!).

Please bring along a photo of your grandchild or grandchildren to share! Valentine themed refreshments will be served and a Certificate of Completion will be awarded to each attendee. Deadline to register is Feb. 8. To register please e-mail Mclaughlin@bh.cmhc.org or call the Bridgton Hospital Special Delivery Family Birthing Center at 207-647-6128

01/18/2011

Pamper Yourself Day for Cancer Patients Jan. 29

Bridgton Hospital Hosts Pamper Yourself Day

Bridgton Hospital and the Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer, Hope and Healing will sponsor a 'Pamper Yourself' Day at the Crystal Lake Spa and Wellness Center, 103 Norway Rd., Harrison, January 29, from 9AM to Noon. Susan Rivet, RN, manager of the Bridgton Hospital specialty clinics, has organized a wonderful day of 'pampering' and relaxation. This is the third year for the special event.

The mini-spa sessions are available for cancer patients and survivors. Attendees may bring a family member or friend with them. Reiki, facials, massages, pedicures, manicures, makeovers, hair styling and reflexology will be available.

There is no charge for attendees. Due to space limitations however, reservations are required. Please call 207-647-6120.

01/05/2011

Bridgton Hospital Pharmacy Receives Awards

The Bridgton Hospital Pharmacy and its staff were recognized by Comprehensive Pharmaceutical Services (CPS), Memphis, TN, with two corporate awards during CPSâ??s annual meeting held Tuesday night, December 7, 2010. These awards were the regional 'Site of the Year 2010' award and a 'Best Practices 2010' Award.

(Far right) Marcus Baker, Regional Vice-President for CPS, presented the awards to the Bridgton Hospital staff, pictured, Denyell Gerchman, staff clinical pharmacist and Michael Lessard, Pharmacy Director. According to Mr. Baker, "Dynamite comes in small packages, and Bridgton Hospital's pharmacy staff is truly dynamite!" The pharmacy team has demonstrated a successful and ongoing commitment to quality patient care. The pharmacy was recognized as 'Site of the Year' for its clinical, operational and financial performance for the past year. The pharmacy team spends time on the nursing units and other patient care areas daily and are making a difference in the care of patients. The 'Best Practices' award was presented to the pharmacy team for scoring greater than a 95% score on the CPS Annual Operations Audit. This is an intense and thorough review of key pharmacy performance indicators with particular emphasis on regulatory, financial and operational matters. Mr. Baker's presentation of the awards is reflective of the best from within a region of fourteen hospitals across Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont and Michigan.

12/21/2010

New Year Baby 2011 Jackson Lee Bartlett, Harrison ME

LARGE VERSION

The first baby born at Bridgton Hospital in 2011 is Jackson Lee Bartlett, son of Andrea L. Capano and Roderick R. Bartlett of Harrison. Jackson Lee joins his brother, Alexander Bartlett, 4.

Jackson Lee Bartlett was born on Friday, January 7, at 6:38PM, and weighed 9 lbs. 11 ounces. Maternal Grandparent is Dan Capano, Windham. Paternal Grandparent is Roland Gagne, Waterford.

Baby and mom were presented a number of gifts from hospital friends and area businesses. Gifts included: savings account from TD Banknorth, a floral bouquet from the employees of Bridgton Hospital and Bridgton Hospital Physician Group, a baby blanket compliments of a special hospital friend, a gift check from the Bridgton Hospital Guild, and gift cards from a local supermarket donated by a special hospital friend.

12/21/2010

Bridgton Hospital Guild Presents $40,000 Gift

The Annual Meeting of the Bridgton Hospital Guild was held at the Trailside Restaurant, Bridgton, on Oct. 27.

The Guild President, Sandra Weygandt, presided over the gathering of members and guests. Guests included Bridgton Hospital President, R. David Frum, Philip Libby, Chairman of the Board of Directors, John Ludwig, Vice President of Administration, Pamela Smith, Director of Development and Community Relations, and Marie Paul, Administration Assistant. In addition, special Guest Speaker from Bridgton Hospital was Roberta (Bobbi) Cribby, RN, MS, BSN, Director of Clinical Practice. Ms. Cribby provided an excellent presentation to the Guild members on the progress of a current quality initiative at Bridgton Hospital and within the Central Maine Healthcare system, barcoding for patient safety. A system-wide multidisciplinary committee consisting of members from nursing, pharmacy, IT, and administration have been working on the safety initiative. Barcoding is expected to roll out in early to mid-2011 at the hospital.

In addition to the election of officers for 2010-2011, Mrs. Weygandt recognized Mrs. Virginia ?Ginny? Moran for her extraordinary volunteer commitment to the Guild over the past year.

Officers elected included: President, Sandra Weygandt; 1st Vice-President, Fern Twitchell; Terry Curns, 2nd Vice-President; Marge Blaney, 3rd Vice-President; Sherry Morrison, Corresponding Secretary; Diana Fallon, Treasurer; Phyllis Ginzler, Secretary.

David Frum, who became President on August 1, took the opportunity to introduce himself to the group, providing a background personally and professionally, as well as discussing the current state of affairs at the not-for-profit hospital. Mr. Frum is a strong advocate for volunteerism, and he took the opportunity to applaud the outstanding efforts of the group. Recruitment of new physicians, strengthening of the general surgery specialty, the potential addition of an urgent care service and expanded care hours, and other initiatives were discussed. He also lauded Bridgton Hospital for consistently rating in the top 2 or 3 hospitals in Maine for outstanding customer service.

Philip Libby thanked the Guild members, on behalf of the entire Board, for their outstanding efforts supporting the hospital through their volunteerism at the coffee shop and thrift shop and other initiatives. The huge ?THANK YOU? sign he unrolled, which stretched across the room, was a hit among the attendees.

Mrs. Weygandt presented the Guild gift check for $40,000 to Mr. Frum and Bridgton Hospital. The funds will be used to purchase state of the art flat screen televisions for each patient room and area. The TV?s will not only provide the usual cable broadcast stations but will be utilized for patient education and eventually as bedside computers. This is the largest single year gift from the Guild since their annual gift in 1992, the 75th anniversary of the hospital.

12/14/2010

Growth, Enthusiasm, Motivation and Spirit (GEMS) Recognized

On Thurs., Nov. 4, Bridgton Hospital recognized five employees for their commitment to patient care excellence through an employee recognition program entitled GEMS (Growth, Enthusiasm, Motivation and Spirit). The GEMS awards were presented to Lisa Charette, RN, Diamond Level, Laurie Dougherty RN, Ruby Level, Paula Cox, Ruby Level, Joanne McLaughlin RN, Ruby Level, and Lori Stacy RN, Ruby Level.

The GEMS Program, offered system-wide within the Central Maine Medical Center Family, has five major objectives: improve the quality of patient care and customer service, honor the clinical disciplines from novice to expert, provide a sustainable recognition and reward program, provide a process of recognition with clear, measurable and attainable criteria, and promote the retention and recruitment of highly motivated professionals committed to excellence.

Bobbi Cribby RN, Clinical Practice Director, provided information about the history of the GEMS Program and outlined the goals of recognition with the GEMS Program.

The following Department managers of the awardees presented the GEMS certificates, award lapel pins and bouquets:

Donna Joyce RN, First Assistant and manager of Surgical Services, presented a Diamond level award to Lisa Charette, RN.

Jill Rollins RN, manager of the Inpatient and Emergency Departments, recognized Laurie Dougherty RN, Joanne McLaughlin RN, and Lori Stacy RN, all at the Ruby Level.

June Gabriel, manager of Plant Operations, presented Paula Cox with a Ruby Level award.

The afternoon event concluded with David Frum, President, Bridgton Hospital, acknowledging the incredible dedication and energy of the awardees and thanking them for their commitment. Ms. Cribby reminding Bridgton Hospital and Bridgton Hospital Physician Group employees to review the criteria for GEMS selection and to consider applying for GEMS status in the years ahead. Bridgton Hospital staff is well known for their dedication to patient care, commitment to customer service and community involvement - all traits of a GEMS honoree.

12/14/2010

Bridgton Hospital Guild Lighting of Tree of Love

The Bridgton Hospital Guild celebrated the lighting of their living ?Tree of Love? outside the Bridgton Hospital on Nov. 29.

Christmas carols, led by Carolyn Stanhope, organist and choir director of the First Congregational Church, Bridgton, led the gathering, followed by hot chocolate and cookies at the Guild coffee shop.

Individuals and families can purchase a Tree of Love Christmas bulb to place on the tree in memory of, or in honor of, their loved ones during this holiday season. The ?Tree of Love? program includes the living balsam tree outdoors, which glows brightly throughout the season, and a lighted tree in the Bridgton Hospital lobby that displays all the bulbs with names on them. Bulbs are purchased for a gift of $5.00 or more and are available to purchase at the Bridgton Hospital Guild Coffee Shop, located in the former hospital lobby, the Guild Thrift Shop on Main St., Bridgton, and in administration at the main hospital. All funds raised by the Bridgton Hospital Guild ultimately benefit the Bridgton Hospital and patient care.

For further information contact Pamela Smith at bridgton hospital, 207-647-6055.

12/14/2010

Motivational Speaker on Type 2 Diabetes

Nov. 12 at Bridgton Hospital

The Bridgton Hospital will host motivational speaker, athlete and type 2 diabetes patient Tim Dolan, from Ft. Collins, Colorado, on Fri., Nov. 12, at 6PM in the clinic lobby of the hospital. According to Linda Russell, RD/LD, hospital dietician and diabetes educator, "This is a wonderful opportunity for our diabetic patients and their families to hear about the challenges Mr. Dolan faced, and conquered, when diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes."

Diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2002 during a routine physical, Tim Dolan got the news that his A1C was highly elevated and that he would have to get it under control. At first, he tried diabetes pills, neglecting to make any changes in diet and exercise. Eventually, his condition got his attention when he was diagnosed with complications from uncontrolled blood sugar. Afetr having bypass surgery in April 2007, he added diet, exercise and insulin to his diabetes treatment plan. Today, he is thrilled to be on 'Team Type 2', a patient-led approach to diabetes education from the Sanofi-Aventis A1C Champions Program, and he feels that being a part of the team has helped him out.

Dolan, who learned about the Sanofi-Aventis Team Type 2 during the Tour de Cure in Longmont, Colorado, is happy to be a part of the team. "Joining the team offered me the opportunity to be healthier and spread the word that diabetes is just another challenge to be met."

The session is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served and reservations are requested. Please call Mrs. Russell at 207-647-6062.

11/16/2010

Quality Summit at Bridgton Hospital Oct. 22

Bridgton Hospital is Celebrating National Healthcare Quality and Infection Prevention Week, Oct. 18-22, by hosting a ?Quality Summit? to highlight the quality improvement projects and Process Improvement Team initiatives of nearly every department in the hospital.

The ?Quality Summit? will be in the main lobby of the hospital, Friday, October 22, starting at 9AM. According to Kathleen Wohlenberg, manager of social services, quality and case management, ?Bridgton Hospital has made a commitment to achieve excellence in patient safety and excellence in patient care. We are excited to showcase our efforts for everyone to see and learn about.?

The Bridgton Hospital ?Patient Satisfaction Survey? results, a survey of patients handled through the national survey organization The Picker Group reflects the hard work and high standards of all our staff. Bridgton Hospital is in the top 95% of hospitals in the US for willingness of patients to recommend the facility to family and friends.

The public is invited to view the exhibit.

11/16/2010

'Bras Across Bridgton' Breast Cancer Awareness at Bridgton hospital

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. To educate and reinforce throughout the community the importance of scheduling yearly mammograms and doing monthly breast checks, the radiology department at Bridgton Hospital has come up with a unique promotion!

The hospital has installed a pink clothesline in their lobby, ready to accept donated bras for the ?Bras Across Bridgton? initiative of displaying as many bras in the clinic lobby as possible during the month-long Breast Cancer Awareness Month celebration. Each bra donor completes a donation card which hangs from the bra and can be ?in honor? or ?in memory of? a loved one. At the end of the month, all donated bras will be presented to a designated not-for-profit women?s organization. To donate a bra, simply bring it to the clinic lobby registration desk, Monday through Friday, and a staff person will assist you. Donors of bras are also entered into a raffle of prizes to be drawn at the end of the month.

While the organizers have made the event a fun and visible reminder of breast cancer, the reality is breast cancer is the most common cancer, aside from skin cancer, in American women today. The American Cancer Society reports that an estimated 192,370 new cases of breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed among US women this year. Women are urged to schedule yearly screening mammograms over the age of 40.

The Bridgton Hospital ?Rosina Carlise Mammography Suite? features the digital LORAD Selenia mammography machine. They are MQSA (Mammography Quality Standard Act) Certified and ACR (American College of Radiology) Certified and their mammography technologists are certified in mammography.

Throughout the month of October, patients receiving mammograms at Bridgton Hospital will receive a special Breast Cancer Awareness Month gift.

For further information about this month please contact Alissa Noble, RT(R)(M), Staff Radiologic Technologist/Mammographer and Jackie Thibeau, R (C), radiology department supervisor
at 207-647-6092.

10/25/2010

Bridgton Hospital Hosts Walk Tall-Don't Fall Health Fair

Sat., Oct. 23, 9AM-10:30AM

?One fall can have frightening and devastating effects on a person?s life,? according to Nancy Donovan, Ph.D., PT, director of the physical therapy/rehabilitation department at Bridgton Hospital. According to data collected by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2005 more than 15,800 people aged 65 and older died, and 1.8 million more had to go to the emergency room because of a fall.

Bridgton Hospital will be the site for a special health fair focusing on fall prevention, Sat., Oct. 23, from 9AM to 10:30AM, in the main lobby of the hospital.

Vendors present will include:

? Dr. Christine Newell, OD, from Bridgton Eye Care, who will provide basic vision screenings
? Androscoggin Home Health physical therapists who will be doing balance screenings
? 'LifeLine' information and additional resources.

The fair begins with a 9 AM presentation by Ms. Donovan entitled "Fall Prevention Strategies for Adults and Caregivers".

Refreshments and door prizes for attendees.

Walk Tall ? Don?t Fall!
See you there!

10/25/2010

A1C Champions® Program by Bridgton Hospital Oct. 14

On Thursday, Oct. 14, from 1-3PM, the Bridgton Hospital diabetes clinic will offer a free special
on-site presentation at the Bridgton Community Center called the A1C Champions® Program. The
program is sponsored by Sanofi-Aventis. A1C Champions® presenter Ruth Charne, from Brooklyn,
NY, will be the guest speaker, sharing her personal experience with living with diabetes. The A1C
Champions® are individuals who successfully control their diabetes and want to help others do the
same.

Ms. Charne, a very enjoyable and dynamic speaker, is a member of the Sanofi-Aventis A1C Champions Program®, a patient-led approach to diabetes education. As one of the A1C Champions®,
She knows first-hand the challenges and obstacles to maintaining control of her diabetes. She will share diabetes self-management and lifestyle strategies based on extensive training as well as her own personal experience with diabetes.
Her presentation will offer people with diabetes information on diabetes and how to achieve good blood sugar control, helpful suggestions and encouragement so that they too can enjoy a healthier life.

?A1C Champions® serve as role models to other diabetes patients and provide a support system that encourages patients to take control of the disease,? said Elaine Drew, RN, Bridgton Hospital?s Certified Diabetes Educator. ?There is a huge need for compassionate patient mentors. Diabetes is a complicated disease and too many patients aren?t taking care of themselves, which puts them at risk for serious diabetes-related complications.?

Diabetes is a chronic, widespread condition in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin, the hormone needed to convert glucose (sugar) into energy. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that more than 20 million Americans ? 7% of the population ? have diabetes, including an estimated 6.2 million who do not yet know they have the disease.
This program will be offered at the Bridgton Community Center, conveniently located on Depot St in downtown Bridgton. Light refreshments will be served and attendees are invited to bring along a favorite diabetic friendly recipe to share. To register for this free presentation contact Mrs. Elaine Drew, RN/CDE at Bridgton Hospital 207-647-6060.

The Bridgton Hospital Diabetes Clinic has been awarded the prestigious American Diabetes Association Education Recognition Certificate for its quality diabetes self-management education program.

10/14/2010

Bridgton Hospital Announces New President

LARGE VERSION

Philip Libby, Chairman of the Bridgton Hospital Board of Trustees, and Peter E. Chalke, President and CEO of Central Maine Healthcare, announce the appointment of R. David Frum as the new President of Bridgton Hospital.

?We are very pleased that someone of David Frum?s experience and background has joined us,? said CMH CEO Peter Chalke. ?David will be a great resource for Bridgton Hospital and the entire Central Maine Medical Family.?

David Frum joined Bridgton Hospital on August 1. He previously served as President & CEO of Saint Catherine Regional Hospital, Charlestown, Indiana, a 96-bed facility located in a rural market north of Louisville, Kentucky. Prior to Saint Catherine he was vice president of the Baptist Healthcare System in Louisville, and before that was a regional vice president for Christus Spohn Health System of Corpus Christi, Texas. He has experience in hospital management, medical staff relations, business development and strategic planning.

?It is an honor to join the Central Maine Healthcare Family and to be named President of Bridgton Hospital. Maine has long been a destination for my family and we are excited to be settling into the community. I look forward to serving the hospital, the system and the region during this challenging time in healthcare,? said Mr. Frum.

Frum received his master?s degree in health services administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He also earned a master?s degree in public administration from Louisiana State University, where he also received a bachelor?s degree.

David Frum and his wife, Julie, have relocated to Bridgton with their two daughters, Jessica, 9, and Rachel, 6.

09/30/2010

Bridgton Hospital Benefit Golf Tournament Winners 2010!

The 20th Annual Bridgton Hospital Benefit Golf Tournament was held on Wednesday, Sept. 8, at Bridgton Highlands Country Club. Presenting Sponsor for the 2010 tournament was Norway Savings Bank. Norway Savings Bank has been a continuous sponsor of the event for twenty years.

Major Sponsors included the Central and Western Maine PHO and Comprehensive Pharmaceutical Services. Tee Sponsors included the Bridgton Hospital Medical Staff, Chalmers Insurance & Real Estate, Creative Imaging Group, Skeltin, Taintor & Abbott, United Ambulance, GBLR Chamber of Commerce and Insight Premier. Supporters included: Maine Osteopathic Association. Silent Auction Donors included: Maine Public Broadcasting Network, Shawnee Peak, Friends of Bridgton Hospital, First Impressions Cleaning, Inc., Portland Press Herald, Firs Uniforms Inc., WHOM 94.9 Radio, and Wayne Hill, BHCC Pro.

The tournament raised $30,000 for the Bridgton Hospital Annual Fund. According to Pam Smith, Director of Development and Community Relations, ?We?re very pleased with the support of our community. For the twentieth year in a row, the tournament was sold out in July.?

The 1st Place Challenge Cup winning foursome was Mike Tarantino, George Bassett, Jan Maczuba and Dick Tripani. Their low net score was 44. The 1st Place All Ladies winning foursome included Yvonne Gluck, Carol Davis, Caroline Stanhope and Elaine Tinker. Their low net score was 59.

Three golfers had hole in ones during the preliminary round of the $20,000 ?Putt for Cash?: Bob Holden,Dick Benton and Corey Lebouef. Unfortunately, however, there was no hole in one winner in the final round.

Other winners for the day included:

1st Place Low Gross: Mark Holden, George Dadona, Ryan Leonard, Dale Rossier
2nd Place Low Gross: Steve Bennett, Bud Carrier, Corey Lebeuf, Scott Merrill
2nd Place Low Net: Joe Shubert, Dan Quinlan, Rich Hinds, Jeff Juneau
3rd Place Low Gross: George Sawyer, Wayne Kuvaja, Art Kilbourne, Mike Stuart
3rd Place Low Net: Pat Murphy, Doug Smith, Jim Fagone, Mike Hartney.
4th Place Low Gross: Jim Kane, Robert Hillman, Tom Weigle, Tom Drottar
4th Place Low Net: Dan Weygandt, Rodney Allen, Clayton Neil, Bob McHatton
5th Place Low Gross: Jim Cossey, Bruce Timperley, Bruce Davis, Dick Ramage
5th Place Low Net: Paul Gosselin, Pete Gosselin, Tom Gosselin

Long Drive Contest Tee #1: Men, John Carlson Tee #18: Men, Rich Hinds;
Women: Carol Sudduth

Closest to the Line: Men, Sean Merrill; Women, Karen Mentus

The 2011 Bridgton Hospital Tournament has been scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 7th.

09/15/2010

Bridgton to Afghanistan

Baby Birth Skyped to Dad in Marines

6447 miles.

That is the approximate distance between Bridgton, Maine and Afghanistan, where US Marine Lance Corporal Christopher Gregor, formerly from Casco, has been stationed since January.

But, thanks to modern technology and the cooperation of Bridgton Hospital doctors and nurses, Lance Corporal Gregor was in the delivery room with his wife, Franki-Lin (Snow) Gregor, for the birth of their second child and daughter, Addison Christine Gregor, on Wednesday, July 7, 2010 at 8:31AM. Addison weighed 7 lbs. 9 ounces and was 19 ½? long. She joins her big sister, Carol-Lin, age 3.

Franki-Lin?s mother, Carol Snow of Bridgton, was right by her daughter?s side, manning the laptop computer, camera and Skype? making certain that this extraordinary family event was shared by the family.

LCPL Chris Gregor and Franki-Lin are both graduates of Lake Region High School. They have been married for four years and reside in Jacksonville, North Carolina. Franki-Lin and her daughter have been staying with her family in Bridgton and will return to NC in a few weeks with their new daughter. The new dad?s arrival back from Afghanistan is expected in August.

According to Crystal Drew RN, obstetrics clinical coordinator at Bridgton Hospital, ?All of our nursing staff has been so very pleased and happy to work with Franki-Lin and Chris, and her obstetrician, Dr. Bruce Lastra, to bring dad ?bedside? at the delivery ? even though he was so far away.?

09/10/2010

21st Annual Bridgton Hospital Benefit Golf Tournament

Wed., Sept. 7th, Bridgton Highlands Country Club

In September 1991, Bridgton Hospital began a charitable golf tournament as a fundraising event to benefit the hospital. That first year the winning foursome was Terry Holden, Bob and Martha Holden, and Don Holden.

This year, the Tournament celebrates its 21st year. The Bridgton Hospital Benefit Golf Tournament has been scheduled for Wed., Sept. 7, at the Bridgton Highlands Country Club.

According to Pam Smith, Director of Development and Community Relations, ?We?re very pleased with the generous support of our community. We have sold out our tournament every single year and we know that our wonderful hospital supporters will join us in this successful ? and fun - fundraising event.? The 2011 Presenting Sponsor is Norway Savings Bank. Norway Savings Bank has been a major supporter of the event every year since its inception.

The 1st Place Challenge Cup winning foursome in 2010 was Mike Tarantino, George Bassett, Jan Maczuba and Dick Tripani. Their low net score was 44. The 1st Place All Ladies winning foursome in 2010 included Yvonne Gluck, Carol Davis, Caroline Stanhope and Elaine Tinker. Their low net score was 59.

The tournament will feature four hole-in-one prizes in 2011, all fabulous trips to faraway places, numerous prizes, and a great silent auction. The popular 'Putt for $20,000 Cash' will be held at the tournament and all golfers are eligible.The $85.00 all-inclusive fee, which is the same as last year, includes 18-holes of golf, golf cart, golfer gift pack, continental breakfast, lunch, and after-tournament awards reception. Registration are first come/first registered and golfers are urged to reserve their foursome as soon as possible. This Tournament always sells out quickly. Please call Pam Smith, Director of Development and Community Relations,207-647-6055, or e-mail her at smithpam@cmhc.org to reserve your spot!

09/10/2010

Every Day in a Woman's life Health Fair

Sat., June 5, 8:30AM-1PM

On Saturday, June 5, from 8:30 AM to 1 PM, Bridgton Hospital will host its spectacular healthcare event for women, the Annual ?Everyday in a Woman?s Life? Health Fair. The Presenting Sponsor in 2010 is Norway Savings Bank.

According to Pamela Smith, Director of Community Relations and Development, this event for the hospital and system ?will be the biggest and best so far! This Fair has become a yearly centerpiece of outreach efforts to women in our community, raising awareness of their healthcare needs, of course, but at the same time making the day fun with massages, paraffin hand waxes, demonstrations of watercolor painting, and the sale of jewelry, including Kazuri Beads and Java Jewels, which support the FairTrade Women?s Coop in Kenya and Bali, and Silpada Designs, who will offer sterling and natural gemstone jewelry, with a % of sales benefitting Bridgton Hospital. The event has continued to grow and in 2010 the hospital will utilize both the clinic and main lobby and will offer an array of fascinating break-out lectures.?

Vendors at the day include: Bridgton Hospital physicians and nurse practitioners will provide private clinical breast and skin checks, Central Maine Osteoporosis Center will offer free osteoporosis screenings, the Patrick Demsey Center for Hope and Healing at Central Maine Medical Center will offer skin health ?dermascans? and sunscreen samples, Gayle Miller, Licensed Massage Therapist will offer personal 10-minute chair and foot/hand massage, Arbonne International?s Ann Ruel will provide Sea Salt hand scrubs. In addition ?Mineral?
make-up application and skin care will be offered by Salon 616, mini-manicures, massages and paraffin wax hand treatments will be provided by Crystal Lake Spa and Wellness Center, free blood pressure checks are offered by the Bridgton Hospital clinical staff, the Special Delivery Family Birthing Center will have information about the new ?Baby Friendly? initiative at the hospital. Kathleen of Bridgton licensed skin care therapist will offer mini facials. Reiki demonstrations will be provided by Karen Harding RN, ?Breathe In & Beyond? personal LifeBreath demonstrations by Paula and Christopher Easton, Tai Chi for Woman with Judy Melcher-King, Taoist Tai Chi Society. The Bridgton Hospital Guild will feature their Thrift Shop ?Boutique? booth. Picket Fence Gallery will have their marvelous and colorful beaded jewelry at 50% off. And, after your massage, manicure, mini-facial, make-up application and health check ups you can have your photograph take by Hidden Treasure Photography, Fryeburg ? ending your day with a free portrait!

Bridgton Hospital to Host
7th Annual ?Everyday in a Woman?s Life? Health Fair June 5

PAGE 2

Other vendors include LifeLine Services and Caring for the Elderly by Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice, Interactive demonstrations of new Home Monitoring Units for cardiac patients by HomeHealth Visiting Nurses, Gallery 302 artist and watercolorist, Elna Stone, Bridgton, will be creating a watercolor on-site, and Linda Russell, RD/LD, Bridgton Hospital dietician will offer information on ?The New guy in the Produce Aisle ? Jicama?.

There will be six speaker sessions offered on the hour starting at 9:00 AM. Speakers and topics include:

9 AM ? OSTEOPOROSIS ? NOT BAD TO THE BONES! ? Nancy Rich, Ph.D., P.T., Well known and respected specialist in women?s physical therapy care will discuss osteoporosis and what you can do for it.
9:30 AM ? THIS SHOULDN?T BE HAPPENING ?AN INTRODUCTION TO THE WORKS OF BYRON KATIE ? Jen Deraspe, MS, Owner of ?Nurture through Nature?, Custom Getaways and Retreats for Women, located in Denmark ME
10 AM ? IT?S SUMMER! LET?S BAKE OUR BODIES IN THE SUN---HMMM, MAYBE NOT? Yes it looks great to have a tan, but come learn about how and why you need to protect the largest organ in your body - your beautiful skin. Chriss Hayden, BSCHE, Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing. Free sunscreen and lip balm samples.
10:30AM ? MEDITERRANEAN COOKING AND MENU PLANNING 101 ? Have you heard how healthy Mediterranean cooking is? Join Linda Russell, RD/LD, Bridgton Hospital Dietitian, and Carol Miller, dietary manager, for a fun presentation on cooking Mediterranean (yes, taste testing included!)
11 AM ?
11:30 AM ? ATTRACTING BIRDS AND BUTTERFLIES TO YOUR SUMMER LANDSCAPE - Bobbi Yale, Master Gardener, Information & demonstration on planting space saving container gardens to supply fresh veggies and herbs for your summer table!

All Fair vendors have interactive booths, offering a broad range of information and on-site demonstrations. A full schedule of events and providers will be published in the weeks ahead in regional newspapers and the local cable channel, as well as on the website www.bridgtonhospital.org . Hannaford Supermarkets will provide morning refreshments and bottled water. There will also be an extensive list of raffle drawings including gift certificates, gift baskets, an overnight getaway in NH, and lots more.

Put this day on your calendar ~ and bring along a friend! For further information contact Mrs. Smith at 207-647-6055.

06/14/2010

Growth, Enthusiasm, Motivation and Spirit Recognized at Bridgton Hospital

On Wed., May 12, Bridgton Hospital recognized four employees for their commitment
to patient care excellence through an employee recognition program entitled GEMS (Growth, Enthusiasm, Motivation and Spirit). The GEMS awards were presented to Gloria Morris, RT, Respiratory Therapy, Erika Roy, RN, Emergency Department, Heidi Mercer, RN, Surgical Services, and Ruth Darcy, RN, Surgical Services.

The GEMS Program, offered system-wide within the Central Maine Medical Center Family, has five major objectives: improve the quality of patient care and customer service, honor the clinical disciplines from novice to expert, provide a sustainable recognition and reward program, provide a process of recognition with clear, measurable and attainable criteria, and promote the retention and recruitment of highly motivated professionals committed to excellence.

John Ludwig, RN, Vice President for Administration, welcomed the recipients and staff to the presentation ceremonies. Sally Dunning, RN, member of the Professional Advancement Committee, provided information about the history of the GEMS Program. Bobbi Cribby, RN, Clinical Practice Director, outlined the goals of recognition with the GEMS Program.

Department managers of the awardees presented the GEMS certificates, lapel pins and bouquets.

Donna Joyce RN, First Assistant and manager of Surgical Services, presented a Diamond level award to Ruth Darcy RN and a Ruby level award to Heidi Mercer, RN.

John Cavanaugh, RT, manager of Cardiopulmonary, presented Gloria Morris, RT, with a Diamond level award.

Pamela Crawford, RN, nurse manager of the Emergency Department, presented Erika Roy RN with a Diamond level award.

The afternoon event concluded with Ms. Cribby reminding Bridgton Hospital and Bridgton Hospital Physician Group employees to review the criteria for GEMS selection and to consider applying for GEMS status in the years ahead. Bridgton Hospital staff is well known for their dedication to patient care, commitment to customer service and community involvement - all traits of a GEMS honoree.

05/20/2010

Project Linus Makes Blanket Delivery at Bridgton Hospital

Bridgton Hospital Director of Development and Community Relations, Pam Smith recently accepted fifty handcrafted blankets and quilts from Project Linus coordinator for Maine, Melodie Provost, of Saco, and volunteer Mim Pepper, Saco.

Project Linus, headquartered in Bloomington, IL, has over 400 chapters of the organization nationwide. Named after the adorable security blanket toting character in the Peanuts comic strip created by Charles Schulz, Project Linus has a two-fold mission. First they want to provide a loving sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are ill or experiencing trauma, and second, the organization provides a rewarding and enjoyable service opportunity to volunteer ?blanketeers? throughout the country.

The new blankets and quilts are lovingly handcrafted. Some are quilts, some are knitted afghans, some are fleece, but each is special and ready to be presented as a forever gift for a child in need at Bridgton Hospital.

In addition to the donation made to Bridgton Hospital and other area hospitals, Project Linus has delivered blankets to the Center for Grieving Children, Crossroads for Women, Step Up! Shelter Services and the Root Cellar.

If you are interested in participating in crafting Project Linus quilts and blankets please call 207-284-5606 or contact Melodie Provost, Coordinator, at mprovost@maine.rr.com.

05/20/2010

Special Delivery Birthing Center Open House

April 30 - 2PM to 4PM

LARGE VERSION

Having a baby? Thinking about having a baby?

The Special Delivery Family Birthing Center at Bridgton Hospital will welcome all moms, dads, significant others, grandmothers, grandfathers, siblings and community members to an OPEN HOUSE of the Center, Saturday, April 30, from 2PM to 4PM.

Guests will be welcome by the nursing staff, who will tour you through our private birthing suites, complete with Jacuzzi tubs, as well as visit our baby nursery, learn about our state of the art HUGS® infant/baby security system, our ?Baby Friendly Hospital? commitment, and the breastfeeding products and support groups we offer. Our nursing staff will be there to answer your questions. Hidden Treasure Photography, Fryeburg, will be taking free photographs of your baby.

The day will also feature a BIRTHYEAR 2010 group photo shoot of moms and their babies born at the Center in 2010. Refreshments will be served and all babies attending will receive a free sand pail and shovel for summer fun!

For further details on the Open House contact Pamela Smith at 207-647-6055.

04/29/2010

Bridgton Hospital Specialty Clinics Welcome Urologist Michael Parker, MD

LARGE VERSION

Michael L. Parker, M.D., Medical Director of Urology at Central Maine Medical Center will begin to see patients at the Bridgton Hospital Specialty Clinic starting Monday, April 6, 2010. The Bridgton Hospital Specialty Clinics are conveniently located in the Bridgton Hospital located at 10 Hospital Drive, Bridgton.

Dr. Parker is board certified in Urology and was the first urologist in Maine to use the photovaporization laser (PVP) which is used to treat enlarged prostate gland in outpatient surgery. Dr. Parker and Dr. Susan Mandell, a radiation oncologist, started the brachytherapy program for prostate cancer at Central Maine Medical Center. Brachytherapy involves the implantation of tiny radioactive 'seeds' used to treat prostate cancer.

Dr. Parker earned his medical degree at the Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara, Faculty of Medicine in Guadalajara, Mexico. He later completed his residency in pediatrics, surgery and urology at Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit, Michigan. Dr. Parker is board certified by the American Board of Urology.

Dr. Parker's special interests include: management of all aspects of prostate cancer, including early in-house diagnosis using transrectal ultrasound, radical prostatectomies and prostate brachytherapy utilizing radioactive seed implantation; in-office vasectomies; bladder, kidney, testicular and penile cancers; voiding difficulties, kidney stones and urinary incontinence in males and females; and pediatric urology.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Parker at the Bridgton Hospital Specialty Clinic please call 207-795-2171

04/28/2010

Bridgton Hospital Diabetes Educator Achieves Renewed Status

Elaine Drew, RN/CDE at Bridgton Hospital

Elaine Drew, RN, Certified Diabetes Educator at Bridgton Hospital has been notified that the National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators (NCBDE) has renewed her Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) status.

Achieving the CDE credential demonstrates to patients with diabetes and employers that the health care professional possesses distinct knowledge, thereby promoting quality of care for people with diabetes.

The Bridgton Hospital Diabetes Clinic was awarded the prestigious American Diabetes Association Education Recognition Certificate for its quality self-management education program. The Association?s Education Recognition Certificate assures that educational programs meet the National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education Programs. Ms. Drew works closely with hospital professional staff members Susan Cooper, RN, CDE, Linda Russell, RD/LD and Denyell Gerchman, RPharm, on comprehensive educational programs for patients with diabetes.

Ms. Drew, a resident of Lovell, has been on the Bridgton Hospital staff since 1978.

For further information about the diabetes education programs at Bridgton Hospital please contact Ms. Drew at 207-647-6060.

04/20/2010

Free Seasonal Flu and H1N1 Vaccinations Offered

Bridgton Hospital has announced they will offer free seasonal flu and H1N1 vaccinations on a first come/first served basis until their supply is gone. Please contact Helen Twombly, RN,Infection Prevention Coordinator, at 207-647-6054 to register. According to Ms. Twombly, " Influenza is still a serious public health threat so please consider being vaccinated."

04/06/2010

Medicare Advocate Volunteer Milestone

On Tuesday, Feb. 9,2009 Stanley (Stan) Cohen, MEDICARE ADVOCATE VOLUNTEER for the Southern Maine Area Council on Aging, assisted his 1000th client at Bridgton Hospital. To reach this miletone, he has had more than 2,000 sessions in the last 5 1/2 years to reach his 1,000th unduplicated count of Lakes Region people served. According to the Southern Maine Area Council on Aging, "His contribution to older adults and their Medicare and health insurance counseling decisions is huge!" Stan assists the elderly with 'Medicare' issues, free of charge, explaining, educating, and assisting eligible patients in our region. Acccording to Pam Smith, Bridgton Hospital, Director of Development and Community Relations, "This is such a very valuable service that he graciously provides our service area and he has been doing so since May 2004. Virtually every Tuesday, Stan has been available in our lobby to provide this excellent assistance."

Mr. Cohen was recognized by Gov. Baldacci at the State House Hall of Flags in June 2009 as one of the Governor's Volunteer Awardees for his SHIP (State Health Insurance Program/Medicare & Health Insurance Counseling) volunteer work. In 2008, the MetLife Foundation awarded him a Silver 2008 Older Volunteers Enrich America Award. That award ceremony took place at The Rotunda at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, DC.

Stan Cohen is a Bridgton resident and retiree, who has been trained by SMAA for this volunteer role. Educated at Boston University, Mr. Cohen had a long career as a marketing executive in Cambridge, MA. Since moving to Maine in 1977, Stan has been a marina owner (on Sebago Lake), a school business manager (Gorham), and in 2000 retired after a ten-year stint as Director of Financial Operations at a local prep school. In addition, he writes a column for the local newspaper called 'Medicare Nuggets'.

His organizational experiences include several Board memberships in Massachusetts, and in Maine: School Administrative District 61 (Chairman), State Adult Education Advisory Panel, Bridgton Hospital, Bridgton Historical Society and LEA. Stan has also been a long time teacher in Adult Education programs. He lives in Bridgton with his wife Barbara. They have six children.

Mr. Cohen sees patients in the Bridgton Hospital lobby each Tuesday from 9-Noon. No appointment is necessary, first come/first served.

03/04/2010

First Baby of New Year 2010 Born!

Liam Paul Reinbold,son of Lisa & Jeremy Reinbold of Brownfield

The first baby born at Bridgton Hospital in 2010 is
Liam Paul Reinbold, first born son of Lisa (Tolin) and Jeremy Reinbold of Brownfield.

Liam Paul was born on Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2010 and weighed 7 lbs. 3 ounces. Maternal Grandparents are Jerry and Arlene Tolin, Woodbridge, VA. Paternal Grandparents are Paul and Cathy Reinbold, Portland.

Baby and mom were presented a number of gifts from hospital friends and area businesses. Gifts included: $50.00 savings account from TD Banknorth, a gift certificate for hair styling and manicure for mom at Elegance Beauty Salon, Bridgton, a floral bouquet from the employees of Bridgton Hospital and Bridgton Hospital Physician Group, a baby gift filled bag from ?Village Gift Barn?, Norway, a $25.00 gift certificate from ?The Market Basket?, Harrison, ?Mothering the Mother? gift certificate from Carole Tubbs, Naples, $25 gift certificate from ?Discovery Toys? and Michelle Brenner, Casco, and a gift check from the Bridgton Hospital Guild.

02/09/2010

Bridgton Hospital Staff Presentation at IHI Conference in Orlando

Bridgton Hospital clinical staff members Bobbi Cribby, RN,MS, Director of Clinical Practice, and Denyell Gerchman, R Pharm, Pharmacist, were guest presenters at the December 2009 Institute for Healthcare Improvement Conference (IHI) in Orlando, Florida. The international conference was host to more than 5000 healthcare professionals.

The Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) is an independent not-for-profit organization helping to lead the improvement of health care throughout the world. Founded in 1991 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, IHI works to accelerate improvement by building the will for change, cultivating promising concepts for improving patient care, and helping health care systems put those ideas into action.

Ms. Cribby and Ms. Gerchman?s presentation was part of the Maine Critical Access Hospital ?2009 Medication Safety Initiative Collaborative Projects? currently underway at the 14 Maine Critical Access Hospitals: Bridgton, Blue Hill, Redington-Fairview, Penobscot Valley, Charles A. Dean, Millinocket Regional, Houlton Regional, Mayo Regional, Sebasticook Valley, Mt. Desert, Calais Regional, Rumford, St. Andrews and Downeast Community. Judy Tupper, MS, CHES, Managing Director, Population Health and Health Policy for the Cutler Institute for Health and Social Policy at the USM Muskie School of Public Service submitted the abstract to the IHI for the conference.

Bridgton Hospital staff focused on their ?Blue Folder Medication Safety Project?, a patient-centered medication safety initiative including improved medication history, enhanced use of electronic medical records, a ?Blue Folder? provided to patients for personal medication history and record keeping, daily pharmacist in-patient rounds, and discharge communication and linkage with area and regional pharmacists.

Currently Bridgton Hospital inpatients are provided the Blue Folder upon discharge. Starting in 2010 Bridgton Hospital primary care practice patients will be provided them as well.
The folder is a portion of a major medication safety initiative launched at Bridgton Hospital in 2009, funded through a Maine Health Access Foundation Grant (MEHAF).

For further details contact Ms. Cribby at 207-647-6113.

Bridgton Hospital is part of the Central Maine Medical Family.

PHOTO ATTACHED: (left to right) Denyell Gerchman and Bobbi Cribby, Bridgton Hospital

02/09/2010

Childbirth Class Schedule for 2010

Special Delivery Family Birthing Center Announces Schedule

The Special Delivery Family Birthing Center at Bridgton Hospital announces its childbirth classes schedule for 2010. The dates and times are:
Jan 1/13 & 1/15 5:30pm-8:30pm
Feb 2/13 9am-2:30pm
Mar 3/10 & 3/12 5:30pm-8:30pm
April 4/5 & 4/7 5:30pm-8:30pm
May 5/3 & 5/5 5:30pm-8:30pm
Jun 6/5 9am-2:30pm
Jul 7/10 9am-2:30pm
Aug 8/14 9am-2:30pm
Sept 9/15 & 9/17 5:30pm-8:30pm
Oct 10/16 9am-2:30pm
Nov 11/17 & 11/19 5:30pm-8:30pm
Dec 12/11 9am-2:30pm
To register for the class, or for further information, call the Special Delivery Family Birthing Unit at Bridgton Hospital, 207-647-6128.

12/31/2009

Growth, Enthusiasm, Motivation and Spirit Recognized at Bridgton Hospital

LARGE VERSION

On Thursday, Dec. 3, Bridgton Hospital recognized two employees for their commitment to patient care excellence through an employee recognition program entitled GEMS (Growth, Enthusiasm, Motivation and Spirit). The GEMS award was presented to Sally Dunning, RN, Special Delivery Family Birthing Center and Inpatient Unit, and Susan Robbins, RN, BSN, Clinical Coordinator at Naples Family Practice.

The GEMS Program, offered system-wide within the Central Maine Medical Center Family, has five major objectives: improve the quality of patient care and customer service, honor the clinical disciplines from novice to expert, provide a sustainable recognition and reward program, provide a process of recognition with clear, measurable and attainable criteria, and promote the retention and recruitment of highly motivated professionals committed to excellence.

Elaine Drew, RN, hosted the reception to present the recipient with her GEMS award and recognition pin. John Ludwig, RN, Vice President of Administration welcomed the recipients and staff to the presentation ceremonies. Mrs. Drew provided background information about the founding of the program.

Department manager Crystal Drew RN, clinical coordinator of the Special Delivery Family Birthing Center, presented the GEMS Diamond level to her colleague, Mrs. Dunning. The Diamond level is the highest level available in the GEMS Program.

Mrs. Dunning has been a member of the Bridgton Hospital staff for thirty-five years. During that time she has served as a member of various committees including Policy and Procedures. For many years, Mrs. Dunning was the sole childbirth educator for the hospital and has been part of the third generation of births by her patients. Patients that have the pleasure of being cared for by Mrs. Dunning generally do not forget their experience. She holds a core competency in two departments and it is evident that she loves what she does.

Tami Kelly, Director of the Bridgton Hospital Physician Group, and Donna Durgin, Practice Manager of Bridgton Hospital Physician Group, presented the GEMS Sapphire level to their colleague, Susan Robbins, RN, BSN.

Mrs. Robbins has been employed at Naples Family Practice since March 2006. She has demonstrated initiative and enthusiasm within her job description, as well as continuing her education for her Masters Degree in Nursing.

She has demonstrated significant growth in the last year and has recently been promoted to Clinical Coordinator at Naples Family Practice. Mrs. Robbins has been actively involved with mentoring and training new employees within BHPG to the Triage position and has volunteered to mentor and train Triage staff for Rumford Hospital as they implement Triage into the practices.

The Regional Professional Advancement Sub-Committee at Bridgton Hospital administers the GEMS Program.

The afternoon event concluded with John Ludwig RN, Vice President of Administration, encouraging employees to consider applying for GEMS status in the years ahead. Bridgton Hospital staff is well known for their dedication to patient care, commitment to customer service and community involvement - all traits of a GEMS honoree.

12/30/2009

Bridgton Hospital Guild Presents $36,000 Gift to Hospital

Gift to Purchase Capital Equipment

The Annual Meeting of the Bridgton Hospital Guild was held at the Old Mill Tavern, Harrison, on October 28th, 2009.

Guild President Sandra Weygandt presided over the gathering of members and guests. Guests included Bridgton Hospital President and CEO, John Carlson, Phillip Libby, President of the Board of Directors, Vice President of Administration, John Ludwig, Pamela Smith, Director of Development and Community Relations, and Marie Paul, Administration Assistant. In addition, special guest Denyell Gerchman, R.Ph., Bridgton Hospital Pharmacist, was a Guest Speaker on the new ?Blue Folder Project?, a project that concentrates on patient medication safety and reconciliation, at Bridgton Hospital.

The Guild elected a new slate of officers for the 2009-2010 year. They are: President, Sandra Weygandt; lst Vice-President, Fern Twitchell; 2nd Vice-President, Terry Curns; 3rd Vice-President, Marge Blaney; Recording Secretary, Phyllis Ginzler; Corresponding Secretary, Sherry Morrison; Treasurer, Diana Fallon.

Mrs. Weygandt presented the Guild?s gift donation check for $36,000 to Mr. Carlson and Bridgton Hospital. The funds will be used to purchase for the Inpatient Unit a newborn hearing screener and four vital sign machines, for the Emergency Department an I-Stat machine for comprehensive point of patient care lab testing, and for the Laboratory a high power microscope.

The Bridgton Hospital Guild is a not for profit volunteer driven organization that raises funds to benefit Bridgton Hospital. They raise funds through various special fundraising efforts like their Merchant Discount Card and Tree of Love, as well as the Guild Coffee Shop and Guild Thrift Shop. New volunteers are always welcome. For membership information please contact Mrs. Weygandt at 647-6212 or membership applications are available at the Coffee Shop, located in the lobby of the former hospital, or at the Thrift Shop, located on Main St., adjacent to Reny?s.

12/15/2009

Comfort Care ~ Providing Senstive Care at the End of Life

Despite all of the medical advances that modern medicine provides us today, there comes a time when medicine and treatments no longer will provide a cure and a patient and their family must face the reality that they are dying.

As a small, community hospital, Bridgton Hospital has always prided itself on having an outstanding, caring and compassionate nursing staff. Two of those nurses, Tammy Laidlaw RN and Valerie Loan RN, who provide care in the Critical Care and Inpatient Unit?s, have been instrumental in establishing a ?Comfort Care? program, a special program to compassionately help their patients in this last, most natural process of dying.

Their vision is simple: Comfort Care at Bridgton Hospital affirms life and regards dying as a natural process. The program recognizes that the end of life is a profoundly personal experience for the patient and their family. Their mission is equally simple and thoughtful: To provide an alternative to patients and family as they make the transition through the changing aspects of care ? from cure to comfort ~ and to help the dying patient who wishes to address issues of life completion and closure.

According to Ms. Laidlaw and Ms. Loan, ?The program began, as many programs do, through a need we saw?. Many years ago, the nursing staff received a hand-knitted afghan as a gift. The special afghan would be used to provide extra warmth and comfort to a dying patient. Then it would be carefully laundered and returned to the nurses for safe keeping. Saddened when the nursing staff could not give away the special gifted blanket to a family that had lost their loved one, the idea came to them to start a special program, a program where all dying patients would have the ?comfort? of a special afghan ? an afghan that their family could then forever keep.

The program has now evolved into more than the special hand-knitted comfort cover, however. There is a special cart to bring right to the bedside, crafted by the staff and including candlelight (battery operated), soft music, special books including a Bible, scented lotions and creams. And, of course, the warmth of a lovingly hand-crafted quilt.

Ms. Laidlaw and Ms. Loan were selected to present their program at the Organization of Maine Nursing Leaders ?Nursing Summit? held in Augusta on March 6. The day-long Nursing Summit brings together nurses, employers and educators to work together to promote and evolve nursing as a profession in Maine.

The Comfort Care program continues to seek and accept the donation of hand-crafted afghans and quilts. For further information on how you can assist with the quilt project please call Bridgton Hospital at 207-647-6055.

12/07/2009

Mom's Milk Breastfeeding Support

?Mom?s Milk?, the breastfeeding support group at Bridgton Hospital, meets regularly at Bridgton Hospital. The support group leader/consultant will be International Board Certified Lactation Consultant Crystal Drew, RN, or Laurie Dougherty, RN, Certified Lactation Counselor. For further information on days the group meets and hours contact Crystal Drew at the Special Delivery Family Birthing Center, 207-647-6000 ext. 6128.

11/16/2009

'Special Delivery' Breastfeeding Class Schedule 2010

The ?Special Delivery? Family Birthing Center at Bridgton Hospital and obstetrics nurse Crystal Drew, R.N., BSN, International Certified Lactation Counselor, has announced the schedule for breastfeeding classes for 2010.
All Classes Meet from 6:30pm-8pm:
2/8
4/12
6/14
8/9
10/11
12/13
Classes are open to any mother to be who would like to learn more about breastfeeding. Women who attend are strongly encouraged to bring their support person to the class.

Topics that will be covered include the benefits of breastfeeding, along with the basic skills and techniques during the first days of breastfeeding. Contact Ms. Drew about fee for classes. The ?Special Delivery? Family Birthing Center at Bridgton Hospital also now has breast pumps available to mothers who would like to rent them. They are Medela hospital-grade pumps and we offer the mother both single and double pumping.

As a certified lactation counselor for Bridgton Hospital, Ms. Drew provides in-depth information, support and on-going education for mothers to be in our service area, and will offer ongoing support for mothers who are breastfeeding currently. To register for the session, get information about rentals of breast pumps, learn about our ?Mom?s Milk? support group, or for further information about the maternity unit, contact Ms. Drew by calling the Bridgton Hospital ?Special Delivery? Family Birthing Unit at 207-647-6119.

11/16/2009

Bridgton Hospital Nurse President-Elect of OMNE

Bobbi Cribby, BSN, MS, Director of Clinical Practice at Bridgton Hospital, has been elected President-Elect for 2009-2010 for OMNE, the Organization of Maine Nurse Executives, a professional organization of nursing leaders in Maine who directs the course for nursing by promoting sound health care policies within their organizations and at the state, local and national level.

As Director of Clinical Practice at Bridgton Hospital, Ms. Cribby is responsible for management of clinical initiatives, including project management, evidence-based practice quality and regulatory oversight.

A graduate of Mercy School of Nursing, Ms. Cribby received her BSN from St. Joseph?s College and her MS in Healthcare Administration from New England College. She joined the Bridgton Hospital nursing staff in 1971 and has served in numerous roles during her tenure. She is a resident of Naples.

11/06/2009

Bridgton Hospital Guild 'Tree of Love' Lighting

Mon.,Nov. 30, 4PM

The Bridgton Hospital Guild will be lighting their outside living balsam ?Tree of Love?, on Mon., Nov. 30, at 4 PM.

A longtime tradition for the Guild, the event has been expanded this year to include a brief program celebrating the actual lighting of the tree. The tree is located on the campus of Bridgton Hospital near the front entry.

Carolyn Stanhope organist and choir director extraordinaire of The First Congregational Church, UCC Bridgton, will lead the gathering along with Guild members and hospital employees.The public is invited to the event which includes singing Christmas carols and lighting the tree, followed by hot chocolate and cookies at the Guild coffee shop. The Bridgton Hospital employees will offer homemade soup, direct from recipes in their new 'From our Home to Yours' employee cookbook.

Individuals and families can purchase a Tree of Love Christmas bulb to place on the tree in memory of, or in honor of, their loved ones during this holiday season. The ?Tree of Love? program includes the living balsam tree outdoors, which glows brightly throughout the season, and a lighted tree in the Bridgton Hospital lobby that displays all the bulbs with names on them. Bulbs are purchased for a gift of $5.00 or more and are available to purchase at the Bridgton Hospital guild coffee shop, located in the former hospital lobby, the Guild Thrift Shop on Main St., Bridgton, and in administration at the main hospital. All funds raised by the Bridgton Hospital Guild ultimately benefit the Bridgton Hospital and patient care.

For further information contact Fern Twitchell or Susan Strong, Tree of Love Coordinators for 2009, at the Bridgton Hospital Guild Coffee Shop 207-647-6000, ext. 6756.

11/06/2009

Diabetes Education Series

The Bridgton Hospital Diabetes Clinic will sponsor its four-part Diabetes Education Program Nov. 12, 17, 19 and 23, from 6:30 to 8:30 PM, in the hospital clinic wing. Bridgton Hospital has received the prestigious American Diabetes Association Education Recognition Certificate for a quality diabetes self management education program.

The series requires physician referral and early registration is suggested due to its popularity (class size is limited to assure personal attention). Topics covered include: the importance of exercise and physical activity, healthy meal plans and diabetes, hypoglycemia signs and symptoms, medications to control diabetes, complications and diabetes, diabetes and eye care, and diabetes and proper foot care. Medicaid and most insurance plans cover the course registration fee.

In addition to Elaine Drew, RN/CDE, a registered nurse who is also a certified diabetes nurse educator, lecturers will include Dr. Gordon, Optometrist, and Bridgton Hospital professionals Denyell Gerchman, Pharmacist, Linda Russell, MA, RD/LD, CDE, Registered Dietician, and Karen Bogdan, OT, Occupational Therapist. These classes are designed to give general information about diabetes and help the patient manage their diabetes. The course also introduces patients to a diabetes support system. A dietary consultation is required, and should be done before the classes begin. Please contact Linda Russell, RD/LD at 647-6062 to schedule an appointment.

Participants are encouraged to bring a relative or a friend with them. For more information about the program or to register call 207-647-6062, Elaine Drew, RN/CDE.

11/06/2009

FREE Transportation Program Continues

ConnectShuttle Service from Bridgton Hospital to CMMC

ConnectShuttle - Non-emergency Transportation

ConnectShuttle is the free, non-emergency transportation program that provides patients of the Bridgton Hospital practices - Bridgton Internal Medicine, Naples Family Practice, North Bridgton Family Practice, Fryeburg Family Medicine - with comfortable mini-bus transportation between Bridgton Hospital and Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) and Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute (CMHVI) specialty care.

ConnectShuttle is a free roundtrip service, departing from the main parking lot at Bridgton Hospital and returning passengers to Bridgton Hospital. The service provides several scheduled round-trips during the day to meet the needs of patients.

Reservations for roundtrip travel on the ConnectShuttle are handled by the registration staff of Bridgton Internal Medicine. They can be reached at 207-647-2311 for further details.

Patients of Bridgton Hospital practices who have specialty physician appointments at CMMC and CMHVI, and who meet the following qualifications, are encouraged to take advantage of this Quality Care~Close to Home benefit:

* ConnectShuttle transport is for non-emergency care only
* ConnectShuttle patients must be able to travel without assistance
* ConnectShuttle patients must have difficulty arranging transportation to specialty care services at CMMC and/or CMHVI. Those difficulties could include no drivers or caregivers available during specialty office hours and/or lack of funds for private car service.

We're Always Thinking of Ways to Help our Patients ~ Quality Care Close to Home

11/06/2009

Fryeburg Family Medicine Offers On-Site Phlebotomy Services

Convenient Lab Services in Fryeburg

Bridgton Hospital, in an ongoing effort to provide convenient services for patients of their Fryeburg Family Medicine Practice, as well as all residents of the Fryeburg and Mt. Washington Valley, now offers on-site phlebotomy services. Fryeburg Family Medicine includes the practice of Gene Royer, D.O. and Eric Gerchman, M.D, and is conveniently located in their new building on Route 302,253 Portland Rd., just 1 ½ miles from the center of Fryeburg village.

Blood work services are offered Monday through Friday. You do not have to be a patient of the practice to utilize the lab services.

Patients can establish standing orders at the site or bring in their lab order. The lab hours are Monday and Friday, 8 AM-3PM.

For further questions contact Fryeburg Family Medicine at 207-935-3198 or 207-935-3383.

11/06/2009

Is it a Cold...or the Flu?

Bridgton Hospital doctors and nurses are asked frequently what the difference between a cold and the flu is. To meet this request for information, Bridgton Hospital reminds you of the following:

SYMPTOMS OF A COLD

Fever: Rare in adults and older children, but can be as high as 102?a F in infants and small children
Headache: Rare
Muscle Aches: Mild
Tiredness and Weakness: Mild
Extreme Exhaustion: Never
Runny Nose: Often
Sneezing: Often
Sore Throat: Often
Cough: Mild hacking cough

SYMPTOMS OF THE FLU

Fever: usually 102?aF, but can go up to 104?aF and usually will last 3 to 4 days
Headache: Sudden onset and can be severe
Muscle aches: Usual, and often severe
Tiredness and Weakness: Often extreme, and can last two weeks or more
Extreme Exhaustion: Sudden onset and can be severe
Runny nose: Sometimes
Sneezing: Sometimes
Sore Throat: Sometimes
Cough: Usual, and can become severe
What You Should Do If You Get the Flu
Rest, drink plenty of liquids, avoid using alcohol and tobacco, and take medications to relieve the symptoms of flu. Influenza is caused by a virus, so antibiotics (like penicillin) don't work to cure it. Never give aspirin to children or teenagers who have flu-like symptoms ¡V and particularly fever ¡V without first speaking to your doctor. Giving aspirin to children and teenagers who have influenza can cause a rare but serious illness called Reye syndrome. Children or teenagers with the flu should get plenty of rest, drink lots of liquids, and take medicines that contain no aspirin to relieve symptoms. Many people use the term "stomach flu" to describe illnesses with nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Many different viruses, bacteria, or even parasites can cause these symptoms. While vomiting, diarrhea, and being nauseous or "sick to your stomach" can sometimes be related to the flu ¡V particularly in children ¡V these problems are rarely the main symptoms of influenza. The flu is a respiratory disease and not a stomach or intestinal disease. *from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Your physician is your best source for health advice. Contact your primary care physician if you have any questions or concerns. Your primary care physician also has a schedule for providing their patients with flu shots. We encourage you to contact them directly.

11/06/2009

Bridgton Hospital Offers Convenient Blood Lab Services in Fryeburg

Bridgton Hospital, in an ongoing effort to provide convenient services for patients of their Fryeburg practices, as well as all residents of the Fryeburg and Mt. Washington Valley, now offers phlebotomy services at the offices of Dr. Gene Royer and Dr. Eric Gerchman, Fryeburg Family Medicine, located on RT. 302 in Fryeburg.

You do not have to be a patient of the practice to utilize the lab services. This saves patients from traveling into the hospital for blood work.

Patients can establish standing orders at the site or bring in their lab order, Monday through Friday. The hours are Monday and Friday, 7:30AM-3PM; Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 8:30AM-3PM.

Contact Fryeburg Family Medicine at 207-935-3383.

11/06/2009

Free Monthly Blood Pressure Checks at Bridgton Hospital

Bridgton Hospital will offer free blood pressure checks for the public on the second Tuesday of each month from 9AM-10 AM in the hospital clinic lobby. The once a month clinic is scheduled through 2011. The hospital is located on Hospital Drive, off South High St., Bridgton.

Elaine Drew, RN, will do the checks. She is also the Bridgton Hospital certified diabetes health educator.

11/06/2009

Cribby Speaker at Hawaii Rural Hospital Conference

Topic: Medication Reconciliation Project at Bridgton Hospital

Bobbi Cribby, BSN, MS, Director of Clinical Practice at Bridgton Hospital, was a guest speaker at the 9th Annual Hawaii Medicare Rural Hospital Conference to be held October 21-23 in Waikoloa, Hawaii.

Ms. Cribby was invited to be a speaker on the Medication Reconciliation Project currently underway at Bridgton Hospital. Bridgton Hospital was awarded a $50,000 Maine Health Access Foundation Grant (MEHAF) for the project in 2008. The project is working on establishing changes for patient medication safety in the acute care setting and in the community. Working with hospital professionals and physicians, as well as community pharmacists, the team recently launched their ?Blue Folder Project?, a major medication safety initiative for the hospital and community.

As Director of Clinical Practice at Bridgton Hospital, Ms. Cribby is responsible for management of clinical initiatives, including project management, evidence-based practice quality and regulatory oversight.

Ms. Cribby is President-elect of OMNE for 2009-2010. OMNI is the Organization of Maine Nurse Executives, a professional organization of nursing leaders in Maine who directs the course for nursing by promoting sound health care policies within their organizations and at the state, local and national level.

A graduate of Mercy School of Nursing, Ms. Cribby received her BSN from St. Joseph?s College and her MS in Healthcare Administration from New England College. She joined the Bridgton Hospital nursing staff in 1971 and has served in numerous roles during her tenure. She is a resident of Naples.

10/28/2009

Bridgton Hospital Guild Thrift Shop Fall Hours!

Now Open 10AM-4PM Each Day

The Bridgton Hospital Guild Thrift Shop, conveniently located next to Reny?s on Main Street in Bridgton, is now stocked with spring and summer stock for the whole family.
They are now open Tuesday through Friday, 10AM-4PM, and Saturday 10AM to 1PM. They are closed Sunday and Monday.

With hard to beat prices, the volunteers are gearing up to welcome shoppers. The Bridgton Hospital Guild Thrift Shop is a not for profit fundraising project for the organization and all funds raised benefit your local hospital, Bridgton Hospital.

10/28/2009

Bridgton Hospital Benefit Golf Tournament 2009

Winners Announced

Bridgton Hospital Benefit Golf Tournament Winners

The 19th Annual Bridgton Hospital Benefit Golf Tournament was held on Wednesday, Sept. 9, at Bridgton Highlands Country Club. Presenting Sponsor for the 2009 tournament was Norway Savings Bank. Major Sponsors included the Central and western Maine PHO and Comprehensive Pharmaceutical Services. Tee Sposnsors included the Bridgton Hospital Medical Staff, Chalmers Insurance & Real Estate, Creative Imaging Group, Searles Excavation, Skeltoin, Taintor & Abbott, United Ambulance, GBLR Chamber of Commerce and Insight Premier. Supporters included: Maine Osteopathic Association and the Office of Samuel Scott, M.D. & Dennison Sullivan, M.D. Silent Auction Donors included: Time Warner Cablevision, Maine Public Broadcasting Network, Shawnee Peak, Friends of Bridgton Hospital, First Impressions Cleaning, Inc., Portland Press Herald,Uniforms Express, LT?s of Portland, The Market Basket, WHOM 94.9 Radio, TriNet Consulting, Donaghue, Barrett & Singal PC, InterContinental-Boston, and Wayne Hill, BHCC Pro.

The tournament raised $30,000 for the Bridgton Hospital Annual Fund. The funds will be used to purchase a bladder scanner and will be used to benefit uninsured patients. According to Pam Smith, Director of Development and Community relations, ?We?re very pleased with the support of our community. For the nineteenth year in a row, the tournament was sold out in July.?

The 1st Place Challenge Cup winning foursome was John Carlson, Dr. Jim Frenette, Gary McIver and Dr. Ron Cilley. Their low net score was 49. The 1st Place All Ladies winning foursome included Yvonne Gluck, Carol Davis, Phyllis Bachand, and Donna Ledchueken. Their low net score was 55.

Three golfers had hole in ones during the preliminary round of the $20,000 ?Putt for Cash?: Mark Holden, Ben Harding and Ted Morton. Unfortunately, however, there was no hole in one winner in the final round.

Other winners for the day included:

1st Place Low Gross: Dan Weygandt, Rodney Allen, Bob McHatton and Bill Holden. Their score was 58.
2nd Place Low Gross: Steve Bennett, Phil Lott, Ian Meserve, Bud Carries. Their score was 58.
2nd Place Low Net: Sam Gigliotti, Pete VanLoan, John Wilson, Steve Sinclair. Their score was 50.
3rd Place Low Gross: Mike Stuart, Art Kilborn, Cliff Walker, George Sawyer. Their score was 59,
3rd Place Low Net: Jim Hagen, David Baker, Steve Costellow, Steve Jacobs. Their score was 50.
4th Place Low Gross: Phil Libby, Bud Libby, Renee Libby, Bill Bearse. Their score was 60.
4th Place Low Net: Paul Gosselin, Don Flanagan, James Pelletier, Darrin Hart. Their score was 50.
5th Place Low Gross: Jack Day, Ted Morton, Brad Littlefield, Lee Eastman. Their score was 52.
5th Place Low Net: Mark holden, Tom Chalmers, Dale Lausier, Jason Lausier. Their score was 52.

Long Drive Contest Tee #1: Men, Dick Ramage; Women: Jeanette Downing. Tee #18: Men, Jim Fagone; Women: Phyllis Bacand

Closest to the Line: Men, Dr. Ron Cilley; Women, Pam Ambrose

The 2010 Bridgton Hospital Tournament has been scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 8th.

10/09/2009

Free Prostrate Screening Clinic for Men

Fri.,Oct. 23, 2PM-6PM

The Bridgton Hospital Specialty Clinics will be offering a free prostrate screening clinic for men on Friday, Oct. 23, from 2PM to 6PM. Urologist Mark Hirschhorn, M.D. will provide the screenings.

The American Cancer Society and the Main Urologic Association both recommend an annual screening between the ages of 50 and 74. Men with a family history of prostrate cancer should consider an annual screening after the age of 40.

The clinic is intended for men who are under-insured or uninsured. Pre-registration for your appointment is requested as space is limited. The screening takes just minutes and could save your life. Please call 207-647-6020 to reserve your appointment.

09/29/2009

Diabetes Education Series Begins Sept. 28

Daytime Classes Offered

The Bridgton Hospital Diabetes Clinic will sponsor its three-part Diabetes Education Program Sept. 28,29 and 30,from 8:30AM to 11:30AM at Bridgton Hospital.Bridgton Hospital has received the prestigious American Diabetes Association Education Recognition Certificate for a quality diabetes self management education program.

The series requires physician referral and early registration is suggested due to its popularity (class size is limited to assure personal attention). Topics covered include: the importance of exercise and physical activity, healthy meal plans and diabetes, hypoglycemia signs and symptoms, medications to control diabetes, complications and diabetes, diabetes and eye care, and diabetes and proper foot care. Medicaid and most insurance plans cover the course registration fee.

In addition to Elaine Drew, RN/CDE, a registered nurse who is also a certified diabetes nurse educator, lecturers will include a local Optometrist, and Bridgton Hospital professionals Denyell Gerchman, Pharmacist, and Linda Russell, MA, RD/LD, CDE. These classes are designed to give general information about diabetes and help the patient manage their diabetes. The course also introduces patients to a diabetes support system. A dietary consultation is required, and should be done before the classes begin. Please contact Linda Russell, RD/LD at 647-6062 to schedule an appointment.

Participants are encouraged to bring a relative or a friend with them. For more information about the program or to register call 207-647-6062, Elaine Drew, RN/CDE.

09/15/2009

Infant Crying? ~ It's Just Natural!

Bridgton Hospital Provides Information for New Parents

When parents leave the Bridgton Hospital Special Delivery Family Birthing
Center with their newborns, they also leave with information and tools to
help them should their baby experience extended periods of crying.

Bridgton Hospital is hoping that by educating parents about crying, they
will help prevent Shaken Baby Syndrome. Crying is the primary reason
caregivers shake a baby; shaking a baby can lead to death or serious head
trauma, including blindness and neurological impairment.

"Crying is normal in newborn babies," says registered nurse Crystal Drew,
Bridgton Hospital's Obstetrics Clinical Coordinator. "Healthy babies can cry
a lot in their first five months of life. Babies can cry from 30 minutes to
three hours, with some crying lasting for up to five hours."
Drew says parents should always seek medical care for their baby if they
believe the child's health is in question, but that a healthy baby may
sometimes cry for unknown reasons, and efforts to soothe him or her may be
futile.

Bridgton Hospital nurses now talk to new parents and show them a 10-minute
DVD produced by The National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome called "The
Period of PURPLE Crying."

"We have all of our patients watch it here with us," Drew says. PURPLE is an
acronym for the phenomenon of extended crying: P stands for peak of crying,
U, that it is unexpected, R, resists soothing, P, pain-like face, L,
long-lasting, E, evening, when it is most likely to occur. Drew says most
hospitals and family health organizations are using this tool to educate
parents and caregivers.

In the DVD, new parents talk frankly about the frustration they experienced
when their newborn began to constantly cry. They were not prepared for it,
and had to learn how to deal with it. They learned that as long as the baby
is in a safe place, it was okay to walk away for a few minutes to compose
themselves. They remembered that this period would pass; extensive crying,
which may peak at around two months, usually stops after five months.

As they note, what is especially difficult for some caregivers to accept is
that comforting behaviors such as holding, singing, bathing, taking the baby
for a walk or a ride won¹t stop the crying. Such measures are always worth
trying, but sometimes the crying will simply have to run its course.

Also featured in the DVD are two women whose babies died after being shaken.
In one case, it was the baby's father; in another, it was a daycare
provider.

Drew says all of Bridgton Hospital's maternity patients are given copies of
the DVD for themselves and also to give to potential caregivers. "It gives
the parents the information and some tools to help cope," she says.

For further information about the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome or
The Period of PURPLE Crying, visit www.dontshake.org

A Maine woman also founded a shaking prevention organization, called "Don't
Shake Jake," after her baby died in 1998 after being shaken by a caregiver.
In 2000, the Maine legislature enacted "Jake's Law," which increased
mandatory sentencing guidelines in the event of a child's death from shaking
or other forms of abuse.

For more information, go to www.dontshakejake.org

09/15/2009

New Video Swallow Study X-Ray Now Available at Bridgton Hospital

The Radiology Department at Bridgton Hospital and Speech Language Pathologist Nancy Werneth are pleased to announce the addition of Video Swallow studies on site for patients.

The new procedure at Bridgton Hospital has been made possible with the purchase of a special chair that allows the patient to sit in a secure, upright position next to the x-ray equipment. The chair allows for positioning changes to accommodate a tall adult or an infant. Patients also can be moved from their bed to the chair in a supine position, and then raised to a sitting one.

According to Ms. Werneth, patients who have Parkinson?s disease, Lou Gehrig?s disease, Chronic Pulmonary disease, Cancer or Alzheimer?s, or have had strokes, often lose their ability to swallow. Once a patient has been video x-rayed his/her physician and speech language therapist can determine a course of treatment to correct the problem or help the patient with compensatory techniques allowing them to continue eating orally. Often that treatment is with medication, or sometimes with esophageal (throat) widening. Throat exercise may be prescribed along with other treatments, including Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation. At Bridgton Hospital, Ms. Werneth leads patients through exercises that mimic swallowing, gargling, voice exercises, even yawn exercise. But before treatments can be prescribed, the video swallow study is imperative.

?Patients that require this test are usually medically fragile, so previous to this, patients requiring a video swallow study would have to be transported to Central Maine Medical Center by an ambulance staffed with intensive care nurses, or they were not medically stable to travel at all.? notes Ms. Werneth. The video swallow test can often guide interventions so that the placement of a feeding tube can be avoided. Aside from the quality of life issues of not being able to eat, there is increased risk of diseases of the mouth and throat because of unchecked bacteria. This new equipment will benefit many patients in many ways.

For further details on the swallow study tests please contact Speech and language Pathologist Nancy Werneth at the Bridgton Hospital Rehabilitation Department 207-647-6145

09/11/2009

Merchant Discount Cards Save $$$

Bridgton Hospital Guild Summer Fundraiser

It?s a tough economy, so how about a great new money saving offer?

Would you like a free appetizer with two dinners at Freedom Café in Naples? A free donut from Dunkin Donuts, Bridgton, with every large drink? Free slice of award winning apple pie at 302 West Smokehouse, Fryeburg, with each entrée? $5.00 off your $25 food order at Oxford House Inn, Fryeburg? Free 2 liter bottle of soda with a large pizza at The Market Basket, Harrison? 10% off your order at Lake Region House of Pizza?

If so, you?ll want to purchase the new Bridgton Hospital Guild merchant discount card that is good at fifteen businesses in our Lakes Region. The card, which is available to purchase for just $10, is good to use over and over till May 1, 2010. It is now available to purchase at the Guild Thrift Shop on Main St., Bridgton, the Guild Coffee Shop at the hospital, from Guild board members including Sandy Weygandt, Karen Mentus, Emily Hammerle, Eleanor Twitchell, Sherry Morrison, Diana Fallon, Ellia Manners, Sue Strong, and Ginny Moran. The cards are also available at the Bridgton Hospital administration office. Orders can be placed by mail as well. Send your $10 check, payable to the Bridgton Hospital Guild, to BH Guild, 10 Hospital Dr., Bridgton ME 04009 and your card will be sent back to you! Questions? Call Karen Mentus at 647-6048.

Participating businesses providing discounts also include Trailside Steak & Seafood, Bridgton, Hayes Tru-Value Hardware, Bridgton, Chute?s Café, South Casco, The Printery, Bridgton, Lake Region House of Pizza, Bridgton, Good Life Market, Raymond, Beef & Ski, Bridgton, Tiki Bar & Grill, Naples, Friendly?s, Windham.

Proceeds from the purchase of the merchant gift card benefit the Bridgton Hospital Guild and eventually will be donated to help your community hospital, Bridgton Hospital. Spend a little, save a lot ? that?s a winning deal!

08/17/2009

Aster Award 2009 for HEROES Video Production

Marketing Healthcare Today Magazine Competition

Honored for marketing excellence in the 2009 Aster Awards, Bridgton Hospital and the Central Maine Medical Center Family were recognized in this year?s competition, receiving a Gold Award for their HEROES (Healthcare Employees Reaching Out with Exceptional Service) video production for new employee orientation.

The Aster Awards, one of the largest competitions of its kind, is hosted by Marketing Healthcare Today and Creative Images, Inc. This elite national program recognizes outstanding healthcare professionals for excellence in their advertising/marketing efforts.

The 2009 Aster Awards consisted of approximately 3,000 entries from across America. Participant?s entries competed against similar-sized organizations in their category. Entries must score at least in the top 85% to receive an award. Judging criteria includes creativity, layout and design, functionality, message effectiveness, production quality and overall appeal.

?We are proud to be recognized among the top in the nation for healthcare marketing expertise? specifically scoring in the top 99th percentile. It was an honor to have Bridgton Hospital and the Central Maine Medical Family participate and be honored by Marketing Healthcare Today through acceptance of a Gold 2009 Aster Award,? said Pamela Smith, Director of Development and Community Relations at Bridgton Hospital.

Entries in the Aster Awards were judged by a diverse panel of healthcare marketing experts and all winners will be published in the upcoming issue of Marketing Healthcare Today, a national healthcare marketing magazine.

06/23/2009

Bridgton Hospital Receives 'Baby Friendly' Certificate of Intent

Commitment to Support Breastfeeding for Mom & Baby

Crystal Drew, RN, IBCLC, Clinical Coordinator of the Special Delivery Family Birthing Center at Bridgton Hospital, is pleased to announced that Bridgton Hospital has received its Certificate of Intent to become designated as a 'Baby Friendly Hospital'. To accomplish this designation they have initiate the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding which ensures that hospital routines, procedures and policies remain supportive of the successful initiation and establishment of breastfeeding.

According to Ms. Drew, "The intent is for mothers to receive access to skilled support to help them initiate and sustain appropriate feeding practices, and to prevent difficulties and overcome them when they occur". The Special Delivery nursing staff at Bridgton Hospital has two Certified Lactation professionals. Crystal Drew, RN, is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and Laurie Dougherty, RN, is a Certified Lactation Counselor. The hospital also offers 'Mom's Milk' a breastfeeding support group led by the Certified Lactation professionals.

For further information about the 'Baby Friendly' program contact Ms. Drew at 207-647-6000.

05/08/2009

New Year 2009 Baby!

The first baby born at Bridgton Hospital in 2009 is Jayden Luis Bell, son of Victoria L. Bell of Bridgton.

Jayden was born on Tuesday, Jan. 13, and weighed 6 lbs. 11 ounces. Maternal Grandparents are Troy and Daveen Bell, Naples. Great Grandparents are Donna and Joseph Cash, Boynton Beach, FL; Butch and Debra Bell, Naples.

Baby and mom were presented a number of gifts from hospital friends and area businesses. Gifts included: $50.00 savings account from TD Banknorth, a free gift certificate to Elegance Beauty Salon, Bridgton, a floral bouquet from the employees of Bridgton Hospital and Bridgton Hospital Physician Group, a baby gift bag from ?Blueberries & Me?, Bridgton, a baby gift bag from the Congregational Church, a $25.00 gift certificate from The Market Basket, Harrison, gift basket from the Special Delivery Family Birthing Center nursing staff, and a gift check from the Bridgton Hospital Guild.

02/03/2009

01/22/2008