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Continuing to earn our spot among the Top 50 Heart Hospitals in America

Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Thanks to the generosity of our community, the Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute recently became the first in Ohio to have a Veriton-Spect CT scanner. This innovative technology allows us to perform more diagnostic studies, thereby enhancing the level of care we provide. Scanning is completed in 12 minutes, reducing the time the patient in the scanner by half.

 

Why the Veriton-Spect CT is special

One significant advantage of the Veriton-Spect CT scanner is its ability to detect Cardiac Amyloidosis.

 

This condition involves the accumulation of misshaped proteins in the heart, which can impair its function and eventually lead to heart failure.

 

To test for Cardiac Amyloidosis, patients typically have two or three appointments in one day. During the first appointment, a radioactive tracer is injected into a vein in the patient’s arm. The only sensation a patient will experience is a small pinprick from the injection needle, and the tracer will naturally exit the patient’s system within two days.

 

The tracer travels to the heart within one to three hours. During this waiting period, patients are free to eat, drink and move around. In the second appointment, the patient lies on a table while a technologist uses a special camera to scan the chest. Additional imaging may be required during a third appointment on the same day.

 

The scan produces detailed 3D high-resolution images of the whole body for your healthcare provider to review, helping to determine the best treatment options.

 

The addition of the Veriton-Spect CT scanner is yet another example of how Genesis continues to bring innovative heart care to our community.

 

Learn more at genesishcs.org/heart.

 

Top 50 heart hospital

Genesis is one of America's Top 50 Heart Hospitals

For the 2nd year in a row, as rated by Fortune Magazine and PINC AI.

Learn more
Spect CT Scan

Thanks to the generosity of our community, the Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute recently became the first in Ohio to have a Veriton-Spect CT scanner.

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Genesis Orthopedic Surgeon Obtains Additional Credentials

Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Thai Trinh, M.D., FAANA, Board-certified and Fellowship-trained Orthopedic Surgeon with Genesis Orthopedic Sports Medicine, recently earned the Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Subspecialty Certification from the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS). The certification demonstrates Dr. Trinh’s commitment to providing patients with a high-quality of orthopedic care.

 

“We are proud of Dr. Trinh’s dedication to expanding his knowledge in the orthopedic sports medicine field,” said Carley Love, Director, Genesis Orthopedic Services. “Our patients benefit from Dr. Trinh adding this certification by receiving the best possible orthopedic sports medicine and surgical care.”

 

The Subspecialty Certificate in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine is earned by Board-certified Orthopedic Surgeons who have demonstrated qualifications in sports medicine beyond those expected of other orthopedic surgeons. This is done by obtaining additional training, having a practice characterized by a volume of cases in sports medicine, or having made significant contributions to this field.

 

Visit genesishcs.org/orthopedic to learn more about the Genesis Orthopedic Center and the Orthopedic Team.

 

Thai Trinh, M.D.

Thai Trinh, M.D., Earns Orthopedic Sports Medicine Certification.

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Gift yourself a stress-free season

Submitted by emily.griffin on

As we approach the holidays, you may feel an increased need to maintain traditions, settle tensions, manage grief or stay on the path to recovery.

If you find yourself concerned, know that you’re not alone. Being proactive about your wellness can help you improve your mood, energy and daily function. 

Nina Ayala, LPAT, ATR-BC, Genesis Behavioral Health Therapist, and Nicki Stewart, LCDC III, CT, Genesis Behavioral Health Chemical Dependency Counselor, offer these tips to help manage seasonal stressors.

 

Holiday finances

Maybe you’re worried about paying for gifts and meals due to financial setbacks. Communicate your concerns to family and friends.

“Say, ‘I don’t think I can’t buy individual gifts this season,’” said Nina. “Instead of cooking an entire pricey family meal on your own, suggest a potluck to loved ones for this year’s get-together.”

Shift the focus to spending time with your loved ones.

“Remember your value is not dependent on what you can materially provide,” said Nina. “Make plans to enjoy experiences such as holiday lights and cookie making.”

 

New traditions

Whether you’re missing a deceased loved one, a relative who can’t attend a family dinner or a child who has moved away from home, grief is often heightened during the holidays. 

Restructuring your schedule for celebrations can become worrisome.

“Develop new traditions,” said Nina. “Spend time together. Learn how to normalize the holidays to feel refreshed.”

 

Prioritizing your needs

Remember to focus on your mental and physical health. 

Depression and seasonal affective disorder are often experienced during the holidays. Seasonal gatherings can be hard for introverts, who get drained more easily than extroverted people who enjoy multiple celebrations.

Know what’s in your control to help limit stressors. 

“Take a break,” said Nicki. “Set healthy boundaries.”

Spiritual concerns can develop during the holiday season, leading to a feeling of disconnect or depression.

“We’re happy to discuss faith-based questions about the holidays,” said Nina. “We work with a great Spiritual Care Department who supports patient requests.”

Nina recommends finding ways to be creative or to feel connected to manage holiday stress, including exercise, music, art, journaling, prayer and meditation.

“You can’t pour from an empty cup,” said Nina. “Self-care doesn’t have to be an expensive massage or fancy manicure. Take 15 minutes to reset.”

 

Recovery during the holidays

The season can be challenging for those in drug and alcohol recovery.

“Have something else ready to do if you’ll be in a situation with drugs or alcohol,” said Nicki. “Plan an escape route.”

Complete difficult activities at the beginning of the day. Build a support system to help motivate change. 

“Eliminate toxic environments,” said Nicki, “Create systems. Routines work best when they’re started as small changes to your day.”

 

Confidential resources

Nicki and Nina emphasize the importance of asking for help, especially if you feel that low mood and energy are impacting your daily life.

“There’s nothing wrong with saying you need support,” said Nina. “The conversation about accepting mental health treatment is changing for the better. Anyone can feel stress and seek mental health help.”

No one needs to know you’re seeking help unless you share the information with others. 

“We abide by laws to protect confidentiality except in serious cases of harm to self or others,” said Nina. 

“It’s OK to have a hard time around the holidays,” said Nicki. “It’s how you work through it that matters.”

If you need immediate help, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available to anyone by calling 988.

“It’s a safe, confidential number to call and share that you’re struggling,” said Nina. 

 

Genesis Behavioral Health offers inpatient and outpatient behavioral healthcare for adults, adolescents and children. They can be contacted at 740-454-5927.

 

Visit genesishcs.org/behavioralhealth for more information.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Gift yourself a stress-free season

If you find yourself concerned, know that you’re not alone. Being proactive about your wellness can help you improve your mood, energy and daily function. 

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Out with the old, in with the new

Submitted by emily.griffin on

10 modern guidelines to follow for your health.  

It’s that time of year when everyone is thinking about New Year’s resolutions. The most common — lose weight, quit smoking, exercise more, get organized ― are increasingly being replaced with a new focus on mental health and wellness. 

 

Mental health refers to how well you function at school, at home, at work and socially. Good mental health is characterized by having coping skills, regulating emotions, seeking support and engaging in healthy activities. 

 

Mental wellness refers to how you invest in your mental health. It’s all the actions you take to ensure your mental health needs are met and maintained. 

 

If you are resolving to pay attention to your mental health this year, here’s how to do it: 

  1. Don’t keep work completely separate. Separating work and home has gotten harder with the rise of remote and/or hybrid schedules. Current advice is to leave work at work, which seems unlikely if work is one floor away. However, a study published in the January 2022 issue of Current Psychology says that talking about work can be good for you if done correctly. The study followed 140 couples and found that those who communicated honestly about their work had higher levels of relationship satisfaction. Those couples set a time limit and followed it. If talk strayed to work too often, they went out and did something fun. 

  2. Create a mental health wellness plan. Create a guide of coping skills, people to talk to in stressful situations and activities you enjoy. There are plenty of examples of mental health wellness plans online. Look for one that includes strategies to balance your thoughts, emotions and behaviors. 

  3. Put yourself first. Self-care isn't selfish. It's important to take time every day for yourself and your mental health. Do what helps you relax and recharge and seek out experiences that have a calming effect. 

  4. Learn a new skill. A recent study from Thomas Jefferson University reveals that every time you learn something new, your brain becomes more capable of learning.   

  5. Exercise. Exercising for at least 30 minutes every day can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Go for a walk, ride a bike, take a fitness class or play a sport with friends and family. 

  6. Be grateful. Practicing gratitude every day can invoke feelings of thankfulness and optimism that make managing challenges easier. Don't beat yourself up when you make a mistake – everyone makes them. 

  7. Eat well. A balanced diet contributes to both physical and mental health. 

  8. Get enough sleep. Health authorities recommend that adults get between seven and nine hours of sleep consistently. Read about sleep hygiene – controlling your environment works.  

  9. Slow down. Notice the things you are doing. Strive to be aware of the moment, especially when it’s positive. 

  10. Ask for help when you need it. It's a sign of strength to reach out when your mental wellness is suffering.  

 

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Out with the old, in with the new

If you are resolving to pay attention to your mental health this year, here’s how to do it.

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Anxiety or a heart attack

Dean Daniels is a retired veteran. He spends a lot of time hiking with his two Giant Schnauzers, golfing and swimming. Dean has followed his routine for years. He is also careful about what he eats. 

Dean thought he was doing everything he could to take care of his heart. 

However, he didn’t consider his family’s history of heart disease.

On the afternoon of June 23, 2024, Dean felt a burning and numbness sensation in his arms. Next, his teeth and jaw went numb. Then, he felt like there was a cement block on his chest.

Unsure of what it could be, he thought it must be anxiety and took a prescription medication he had. Regretfully, the symptoms didn’t go away, so late that night, he asked his wife to take him to the Genesis HealthCare System Emergency Department in Zanesville. 

 

Life-saving care

After undergoing tests, Dean was quickly scheduled for surgery. 

“Dean had 99% blockage in his left main coronary artery,” said Trevor Ellison, M.D., Ph.D., MBA, Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Cardiothoracic Surgeon and Medical Director of Cardiothoracic Surgery. “The left main coronary artery gives blood to the entire left side of the heart, and his left coronary artery system was the dominant system in his heart, which is seen in about 15% of the population. We performed a double coronary artery bypass grafting by taking an artery from the inside of his chest and a vein from his leg to create a new path for blood to flow to the heart.”

Dean remained in the hospital for a week.

“The Genesis team was outstanding,” said Dean. “Every person there, from the doctors to the nurses, treated me with compassion. They were tremendous. I felt proud that our hospital in Zanesville provided such great care."

“I recommend Genesis to everyone I know, including my friends in Columbus.” – Dean Daniels

 

One step at a time

After his procedure, Dean started his recovery through the Genesis Cardiac Rehabilitation Program. He said the Cardiac Rehab team is supportive and watch while you exercise. They made him feel safe on his road to recovery.

“It is hard to believe how far I have progressed in such a short amount of time,” said Dean. 

Thirteen weeks after his procedure, Dean hiked a mile and a half with his two dogs in the woods and golfed nine holes. 

“I’ve always eaten healthy and exercised,” said Dean. “However, I didn’t seriously consider genetics. You need to know your family history and talk to your doctor about it. We could have taken precautions. I’m lucky Genesis gave me another chance. My other advice is if you don’t feel well, to get medical help immediately. Don’t wait.”

Maintaining good health as you age is usually a combination of things.

“Dean had a significant family history of heart disease in relatives under the age of 50,” said Dr. Ellison. “When heart disease runs in families at a young age, an individual has the risk of having heart disease at a young age, even younger than their relatives were diagnosed. It is important when patients have a history of premature coronary artery disease to ensure that their primary care physician and cardiologist know about it. Also, patients should remain vigilant for symptoms of heart disease such as chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, lightheadedness with activity, nausea, sweating or generalized fatigue.”

 

Trevor Ellison, M.D., Ph.D., MBA

Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Cardiothoracic Surgeon

Medical Director of Cardiothoracic Surgery

Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute

Trevor A. Ellison, MD
Top 50 heart hospital

Genesis is one of America's Top 50 Heart Hospitals

For the 2nd year in a row, as rated by Fortune Magazine and PINC AI.

Learn more
 

Learn more at genesishcs.org/heart. 

 

Dean Daniels

Dean thought he was doing everything he could to take care of his heart. However, he didn’t consider his family’s history of heart disease.

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Selecting your first pair of reader glasses

Submitted by emily.griffin on

It eventually happens. You adjust the distance of your phone to scroll social media. You squint to see your computer screen. It becomes challenging to read a book. These are telltale signs that you might be ready for a pair of reader glasses. 

  

The American Optometric Association (AOA) says that many adults begin to lose their ability to focus in their early to mid-40s. This common change of near vision is called presbyopia. 

 

Presbyopia happens when the “lens inside the eye becomes less flexible,” according to the AOA. Also known as “old eye,” there are different ways to make your sight good as new, including glasses and contacts or, if desired, surgery. 

 

Which glasses are for you? 

If you’ve never had glasses, buying your first pair can be intimidating. Here are some tips from the American Academy of Ophthalmology to help regain your focus: 

  • You can purchase ready-made reading glasses at a drugstore or online. They are cost-effective but are only made for improving reading. Ready-made glasses assist near vision by “bending light before it enters your eye.” 

    • The National Library of Medicine notes that readers are a good choice if you don’t need any distance correction or don’t have astigmatism (when the eyes are curved, resulting in blurry vision). 

  • Prescription glasses can be specially made and purchased from your eye doctor. Although a pricier option, you can simultaneously address additional eye concerns, such as astigmatism or nearsightedness, with one lens. 

 

Reader strengths 

If purchasing ready-made readers at a drug or department store, select the best strength to meet your needs. Strengths are calculated in diopters. According to the National Library of Medicine, reading glass powers are generally purchased between +1 and +3, although lower and higher strengths are available. It’s best to consult with your eye doctor for recommendations, but these are the general power suggestions based on age: 

  • +1 = Ages 35 to 45 

  • +1.50 = Ages 45 to 50 

  • +2.00 = Ages 50 to 55 

  • +2.50 or higher = Ages 55+ 

 

Although presbyopia cannot be prevented, the AOA says the good news is that these “old eye” vision changes generally taper off around the age of 60. Whether you need a pair of readers or prescription lenses, take advantage of the corrective options available to leave the eye strain behind and ace the eye chart. 

  

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Selecting your first pair of R E A D E R glasses

Telltale signs that you might be ready for a pair of reader glasses. 

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Genesis HealthCare System Named 2024 Most Wired

Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Genesis HealthCare System was named one of the Most Wired® hospitals of 2024 by the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME).

 

"Receiving this award for the ninth consecutive year reinforces our commitment to delivering outstanding care to our community," said Ed Romito, Chief Transformation Officer at Genesis HealthCare System. “This achievement also reflects the dedication and integrity of our entire team, who continue to deliver on Genesis’ mission and values."

 

Genesis is certified as a level 9 for Ambulatory Care and Acute Care again for 2024. These certifications place Genesis in the top 10% of all hospitals in the country utilizing integrated technology. The CHIME Digital Health Most Wired program conducts an annual survey to assess how effectively healthcare organizations apply core and advanced technologies into their clinical and business programs to improve health and care in their communities. The survey assessed the adoption, integration and impact of technologies in healthcare organizations at all stages of development, from early development to industry leading. The Digital Health Most Wired survey and recognition program serves as a comprehensive “Digital Health Check-up” for healthcare organizations.

 

Most Wired 2024

This places Genesis in the top 10% of all hospitals in the country utilizing integrated technology for the 9th consecutive year.

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Cozy up with a new hobby this winter 

Submitted by emily.griffin on

There’s nothing like being snowed in, unless you’re someone who prefers to be outside. Fight that cabin fever with a new reason to stay inside. Check out our list below of some popular indoor hobbies and why they’re great for your health.   
  

Grab your library card   

Reading is well known for its many health benefits, including stress relief, increased empathy and cognitive function. It also has been shown to help people live longer.   

Audiobooks, ebooks and physical books are all great ways to experience new stories. Already an avid reader? Check out a different genre or a new author.    
  

Plan a game night   

Whether you’re with friends, family or by yourself, board games and card games are a great way to have fun and stay entertained. Games are also a great way to stimulate your brain while staying indoors. According to a 2013 study, playing board games can lower your risk of dementia.   
  

Channel your artistic side   

There are so many ways to get creative at home. You can take up painting, drawing, crafting, scrapbooking or calligraphy. The possibilities are endless. Making art has been proven to decrease cortisol levels, thus reducing stress. If you want professional direction, you can find free tutorials online or take an art class in your community.    
  

Embrace yoga and meditation   

Looking for a way to move your body? Try yoga and meditation. Yoga might seem complex, but there are many beginner-friendly movements. According to the American Osteopathic Association, yoga has many physical and mental health benefits including stress relief, increased muscle strength and tone and improved respiration and energy.   

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Cozy up with a new hobby this winter 

Check out our list below of some popular indoor hobbies and why they’re great for your health.   

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Proper posture can begin now

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Growing up, you may have had someone in your ear reminding you to “stand up straight” or “put your shoulders back.” Even if you politely ignored that advice, you can work every day to improve your posture. 

MedlinePlus describes posture as “how you hold your body.” Good posture is achieved by the way your spine is positioned. The top of your shoulders should be above your hips, and your head should be over your shoulders.  

Types of posture 

MedlinePlus explains two types of posture: 

  • Static posture is “how you hold yourself while not moving,” such as when you sit, stand or sleep. 

  • Dynamic posture is “how you hold yourself while moving,” including when you walk, run or lean over to pick up something. 

Although spine position is important, many muscles continuously work to keep us upright. According to the American Chiropractic Association, back muscles and hamstrings in the legs prevent our bodies from leaning forward.  

Practice is key 

Proper posture doesn’t come naturally. Having poor posture can place strain on the body, leading to loss of flexibility, backaches, muscle fatigue, shoulder and neck pain, breathing difficulty and an increased risk of spine injury.  

Here are tips for good posture: 

  • Work at it each day. Good posture during routine activities is beneficial, whether you’re sitting to watch TV, playing a video game or commuting to work. 

  • Stay active. Exercises that focus on body alignment, such as yoga and tai chi, can be helpful.  

  • Ensure you’re sitting at relaxed heights when working at a desk or eating a meal. 

  • Feet matter, too. Be sure your shoes are comfortable.  

Ways to improve posture while sitting: 

  • Change positions frequently.  

  • Take short walks around the house or office. 

  • Avoid crossing your legs. 

  • Have your feet touch the floor or a footrest. Adjust the height of your office chair if necessary. 

  • Use chairs that have full back support. 

Ways to improve posture while standing: 

  • Keep your shoulders back. 

  • Balance weight on both feet and keep them shoulder-width apart. 

  • Pull in your stomach. 

  • Avoid locking your knees. 

  • Allow your arms to hang at the sides of your body. 

  • Keep important items close to your desk so you don’t have to overreach. 

  • Walk with your head held high. Your earlobes should be parallel with your shoulders. 

Consider incorporating these tips to improve your everyday stance. Even as an adult, there’s still time to practice and master good posture. You’ll lose the repeated reminders not to slouch, but most importantly, your body will benefit. 

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Proper posture can begin now

Proper posture doesn’t come naturally. Having poor posture can place strain on the body. Learn how to master good posture, your body will benefit.

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