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Maximizing technology to maximize health

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Why do hospitals invest in the latest and greatest advancements in technology? Is it to increase efficiency? To ensure safety and precision? To reduce pain and improve healing? Well, yes, all of those. But most importantly, the teams at Genesis HealthCare System believe technology enhances compassionate healthcare.

“Some people think that when you start using technology, you lose human touch and human connection, but the opposite is true,” said Ed Romito, Chief Transformation Officer at Genesis HealthCare System. “At Genesis, we aim to maximize human connection and health by utilizing the benefits of technology.”

Ed began his information technology career with the hospital 27 years ago, just before Good Samaritan and Bethesda hospitals merged to form Genesis. Back then, computer networks were in their infancy, and Genesis initially had only 300 personal computers (mostly used for finance). Today, as Genesis celebrates its 25th anniversary, the organization has approximately 4,000 personal computers, and the technology has grown to impact and improve nearly every touchpoint in patient care.

Pairing technology and hospital care: An Epic undertaking

For the past five years, CHIME (the College for Healthcare Information Management Executives) has recognized Genesis as one of the Most Wired Health Systems. Genesis is also listed on the national Top 100 Places to Work in IT by IDG Computerworld. Both distinguished designations became possible because of innovative technology advancements made during the past 25 years.

 

“Genesis is a progressive, innovative organization – never stagnant. We’re always looking to be the most sophisticated community hospital and use technology to enable safer, faster and better healthcare.”

 

For example, examine our electronic medical system, Epic. It’s the best in the world. When we implemented Epic in 2010, Epic was typically only used in large academic medical centers. Still, Genesis decided to move forward and bring this world-class technology to Southeastern Ohio,” Ed said. “We are continually innovating, using the best technology that is powered by our phenomenal team of IT professionals, the best in the country.”

Our vision is One Patient – One Record. Genesis advanced from paper to electronic medical records to enable a single medical record for each patient allowing quick access to current patient records to every member of the patient’s care team and our patients via MyChart. This provides for more coordinated and efficient care. The “epic” undertaking is just one of many advances.

For example, over a decade ago, Genesis invested in robotic-assisted surgical instruments called the da Vinci Surgical System. Bringing robotic technology into operating rooms expanded possibilities beyond what’s possible with the human eyes and hands. With 3D high-definition, surgeons see crystal-clear views magnified ten times stronger than the natural human eye. Plus, tiny instruments offer greater control and range of motion than human hands, making less invasive, smoother and more precise movements.

“The da Vinci Surgical System allows us to deliver safer surgical treatment to our patients, enabling shorter recovery times that allow our patients to get back to their normal lives more quickly. It’s amazing,” Ed said.

Since 2010, Genesis surgeons have completed more than 2,000 surgeries using the da Vinci technology.

Increasing knowledge and health with artificial intelligence

Advancements in technology at Genesis continue moving at a very rapid pace but as the technology increases in capabilities, so does the amount of collected data. To ensure the data is analyzed, organized and used to best help patients, Genesis is enlisting artificial intelligence (AI).

“It’s impossible for a human to fully consume and understand the massive amount of information available. So, we’re using computers to do what computers do best, analyze and present information in a more usable format– and that allows our teams to focus on the human connection in caring for patients,” Ed said.

For example, Genesis uses AI to monitor hospitalized patients on more than 80 data points, like vital signs, lab results, medications, etc. When data points identify potential problems in a patient’s health, the AI alerts the medical team so the patient can receive fast, early assistance. “There’s no way a person could monitor all 250 patients in the hospital on all these points of health. This kind of AI  provides warning signs and alerts the care team so they can take action before the situation becomes serious,” Ed said.

The future looks techy and terrific

In the past 25 years, Genesis has made tremendous investments in state-of-the-art technologies at a very rapid pace and will continue to bring new advanced technology to provide safe, innovative, life-saving technology to southeastern Ohio.

“I believe we’ll continue an upward trajectory of healthcare technology. I don’t see it stopping or slowing down, which is exciting. I look forward to seeing what happens at Genesis during the next 25 years.” Ed said.

 

Ed Romito, Chief Transformation Officer at Genesis HealthCare System, talks about technology advancements.

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Genesis HealthCare System celebrates 25 years of caring

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

 

It began as two healthcare organizations merged into one, then two hospital buildings merged into one, but the singular purpose within Genesis HealthCare System remains the same: Helping each person achieve optimal health and well-being by providing compassionate, exceptional and affordable healthcare services.

“At Genesis, we help our community obtain optimal health,” said Sharon Parker, Chief Operations Officer (COO) at Genesis. “However, providing treatment is not enough. Over the last 25 years, I’ve been blessed to work with amazing colleagues to evolve our services. My focus is to provide care the way I’d want to be treated if I or a family member were the patient. Every team member at Genesis supports that concept.”

Sharon began her medical career as a patient care technician in Zanesville while attending nursing school nearly 43 years ago. She has played a key role in advancing Genesis services, first as director of the Cancer Care Center and now as COO for all Genesis services. Over the years, she has experienced the care at Genesis through various procedures for herself, her husband and their children.

“I helped start the cancer services program and we designed it with our patients’ perspectives in mind. Patients and families wanted all medical providers working together for the best possible outcomes for each unique individual. We spent a lot of time conducting research and then worked with an architect who could make the vision come to life,” said Sharon.

Genesis Cancer Care Center: Close-to-home care for the entire cancer journey

With cancer diagnoses increasing in the United States, having state-of-the-art cancer care close to home is essential. That’s why, in 2015, Genesis opened a dedicated Cancer Care Center to provide personalized, comprehensive expertise and treatment.

“By bringing in additional physicians, we developed a strong multidisciplinary team that offers cancer patients a convenient, close-to-home place to receive coordinated care. Patients could potentially have imaging, lab work, palliative care, medical oncology and radiation oncology visits all in one day here, saving them valuable time and energy,” Sharon said.

The patient-centered, nationally accredited center also includes nurse navigators, an in-house pharmacy and certified surgeons. Beyond treatment, we also addressed the psychological elements of care. The new center includes private chemotherapy pods that are a calming oasis with floor-to-ceiling views of our nature trail that wildlife often visits.

Having all cancer care services available in one center provides convenience for patients and increases communication between cancer care team members. “Our patients rave about the coordination of care, and our physicians appreciate the quick access to their colleagues. It’s routine for our physicians to have conversations about treatment plans so they’re all on the same page. The closeness ensures each patient receives an evidence-based plan of care personalized for their situation,” Sharon said.

A dedicated place for heart health and healing: The Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute

Modeled after the same comprehensive structure as the Genesis Cancer Care Center, Genesis developed a dedicated heart and vascular center. The Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute opened in 2015 and sits opposite the Genesis Cancer Care Center on the Genesis Hospital campus.

The Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute includes the Congestive Heart Failure Clinic, Vein Center, Anticoagulation Clinic, cardiac rehabilitation gym, cardiac catheterization lab, electrophysiology lab and nutrition services.

“Whether patients need open-heart surgery, cardiac rehabilitation or nutrition counseling, they can get it all here. Plus, patients enjoy that hometown feeling at Genesis and the fact that top-quality healthcare that’s close to home costs less than larger facilities that are farther away,” Sharon said.

The Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute became the first fully accredited chest pain center in Southeastern Ohio in 2009. Known for advanced care, the institute’s fellowship-trained, board-certified physicians perform groundbreaking roboticassisted and minimally invasive treatments. By using innovative technology and techniques, patients benefit from smaller incisions, less risks and quicker healing.

Quality and compassion

With its Cancer Care Center and the Heart & Vascular Institute devoted to the best treatment options, it’s no wonder Genesis’ outcomes and patient experience scores rank among the highest in the state and nation.In addition to providing excellent results, Genesis focuses onproviding an excellent healing environment.

“Having dedicated buildings where all physicians and services are available in a close-knit space ensures compassionate, wrap-around care. So, when a patient is diagnosed with a health challenge, we can wrap our arms around them and take care of everything – coordination, communication and quality treatment. They don’t have to worry about anything,” Sharon said.

For the past 25 years, Genesis has served residents in Muskingum, Morgan, Perry, Coshocton, Noble and Guernsey counties with that mission in mind.

 

Sharon Parker, Chief Operations Officer, reflects on the past 25 years at Genesis HealthCare System

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A letter from our President and CEO | LiveWell Spring 2022

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

The future looks bright

 

Together, we have made it through the peaks and valleys of the COVID-19 virus. The number of hospitalized COVID-19 patients has declined significantly and we all are starting to enjoy a more normal life. Thank you for the part you’ve played in helping us overcome this virus.  

 

As the pandemic has transitioned to an endemic, immunity is key to protection from severe illness. The fastest and safest way to build protection against COVID-19 is by getting vaccinated. For you and your loved ones, please get your vaccine and booster as recommended.  

 

Physicians ready to serve

 

We recently welcomed two new, experienced doctors to care for you. On the following pages, each doctor shares his story and how he will use his advanced training and skills to serve you. 


 

Patients returning to what they love  

 

This issue includes the stories of three community members who, with a little help, are continuing to live their best lives. One is a young man who overcame a knee injury to continue his dream of playing collegiate football. Another patient shares her story about finding relief from pain to return to walking with friends. The third story is about one of our retired doctors who sought help from former colleagues when her life was in jeopardy. 


 

Wellness tips 

 

You indicated that you wanted helpful wellness information, and we heard you. We have included healthy recipes and tips to avoid back injuries.  
 

 

Supporting the health of the community 

 

This special edition of LiveWell also includes our Community Benefit Report. The report details the many ways Genesis supports the health of our community and our citizens.     

 

Enjoy the spring days and stay healthy.  

 

Matthew J. Perry

President & CEO

 

 

 

The future looks bright

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Community benefit report 2021 recap

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Making a difference in our community

See a recap of how our community benefit programs helped our community become healthier in 2021. Initiatives included classes, health information and financial support for medical care.

Read the full report HERE.

 

Making a difference in our community. 

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Welcome new physicians

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Clifford B. Maximo, M.D., FACS

Genesis Urology Group

For Clifford B. Maximo, M.D., Urologist, who joined the Genesis Urology Group in February, practicing urology is a family and local tradition.


“I am a second-generation urologist,” he said. Zosimo Maximo M.D., now retired, was a well-respected urologist in Southeastern Ohio. “However, I chose urology because I was impressed with the specialty during my internship at the Cleveland Clinic,” said Dr. Maximo. “I saw cutting-edge, complex, kidney cancer surgery and endourologic stone treatment by nationally known urologists, which shaped my decision to pursue urology,” he said.

Dr. Maximo, who has practiced for more than 20 years in Southeastern Ohio, is pleased to continue treating local patients. “My mission is to serve Southeast Ohio, where I grew up and spent most of my life,” he said. “I take pride in the early detection of both prostate and bladder cancer along with treatment of stone disease and men’s health issues.”

Dr. Maximo believes one of the biggest challenges in urology is preventing urologic disease and cancer. “Scientists and clinicians are working hard to solve these problems,” he said. “Fortunately, urology is very advanced at the detection and treatment of urologic cancer and stone disease.”

Genesis utilizes all of the state-of-the-art urologic technology, including robotic-assisted surgery, MRI fusion biopsy, ESWL and high-powered holmium laser. “I love to treat my patients using the best tools available. However, good-old handshakes and face-to-face discussion are important.”

Dr. Maximo enjoys exercising, spending time with his family and watching his children play sports. His office is at the Genesis Urology Group office, Genesis Medical Arts Building 2, 751 Forest Ave., Suite 301, Zanesville. Dr. Maximo’s phone number is 740-455-4923 and he is accepting new patients. Physician referrals are not required.

 

Getachew Zeleke, M.D., FACC

Genesis Heart & Vascular Group

Getachew Zeleke, M.D., who joined the Genesis Heart & Vascular Group in February, learned in medical school that cardiovascular diseases are the number one health problem in the world. “That’s when I started to develop an interest,” Dr. Zeleke said.

Originally from Ethiopia, Dr. Zeleke’s devotion to treating cardiovascular disease came into focus when his father suffered a massive heart attack. “Back then, Ethiopia’s health facilities were not capable of doing heart catheterization and stenting,” he said. Dr. Zeleke and his family were desperate. “My father was treated with medications, and we prayed,” he said. Luckily, his father survived. “It was then that I decided to study cardiovascular disease,” Dr. Zeleke said. Diagnostic modalities common to the USA are scarce and, in some cases, nonexistent in Ethiopia. Dr. Zeleke said, “Ethiopian doctors rely on family health histories and perform thorough physical examinations for diagnosis and treatment.

“Practicing medicine in a resource-limited setting has taught me to get to know my patients and their problems. A higher percentage of Appalachians suffer from cardiovascular disease than the rest of the country. I’m grateful to help bring good heart health to the community.”

During his spare time, Dr. Zeleke works out, plays soccer, bikes and swims. “I like watching documentaries,” he said. “I also enjoy fishing, hiking and traveling.”

Dr. Zeleke’s office is located at the Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute, 955 Bethesda Drive, First Floor, Zanesville. His office phone number is 740-454-0804. Dr. Zeleke is accepting new patients, and a physician referral is not required.

 

Meet our new urologist, Clifford B. Maximo, M.D., FACS; and cardiologist Getachew Zeleke, M.D., FACC.

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A letter from our President and CEO | LiveWell Winter 2022

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Being there for you

“Hard times define one’s character” is a quote by author Ken Poirot. After two long years of COVID-19, I am in awe of the Genesis team. They continue to work long hours in the most difficult of circumstances and sacrifice time with loved ones they will never get back. They do all of this to care for each patient in their time of greatest need. They accepted the challenge and sacrifices and the emotional toll of caring for patients and families struggling with COVID-19.  

The heartbreaking truth is most of the suffering from COVID-19 can be avoided by getting the vaccine. The facts are clear. In 2021, almost 1,500 patients were hospitalized at Genesis with COVID-19. Of those patients, 80% were unvaccinated.

If everyone gets vaccinated, it will prevent so much human suffering and truly support our team and our community. It is the fastest and safest way to get this virus out of our lives. So, for the sake of you, your family, friends and neighbors, I encourage you to get vaccinated and receive a booster shot when needed.

Providers making a difference

On the following pages, you will meet new physicians who chose Genesis so they can care for this community. You will also learn how our doctors are using advanced robotic-assisted technology to improve care and extend and enhance the lives of community members.


Advancing healthcare

We are happy to announce that our new Genesis Orthopedic Center is now open. This facility offers board-certified and fellowship-trained surgeons, a Walk-in Clinic, onsite therapies, imaging and more. In addition, our new Northside Pharmacy will open by late winter 2022 and will be Muskingum County’s only 24/7 pharmacy.


Thank you

The last couple of years has been very challenging. Everyone at Genesis is grateful for the support the community has shown. The signs in the parking lots, the well-wishes on social media help raise our spirits at the end of a hard day. We have come this far together, and together we will get beyond COVID-19.

Thank you, and we wish everyone the best of health.

Matthew J. Perry

President & CEO

 

 

Being there for you

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Forgetfulness and aging: What’s normal and what’s not?

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Everybody forgets things once in a while, but if you notice it happening more frequently, is it cause to worry? According to the Alzheimer’s Association, there is growing evidence you can reduce the decline in cognitive skills, which include the process of remembering, reacting and understanding, with lifestyle habits such as:

  • Regular cardiovascular exercise that elevates your heart rate
  • Formal education, at any stage of life, helps your mind
  • Stop smoking
  • A healthy diet, one low in fat and high in fruits and vegetables
  • Plenty of sleep
  • Involvement in social activities that are meaningful to you
  • Activities that challenge your mind, like games, puzzles or a building project

 

What’s the difference between normal, age-related forgetfulness and a serious memory problem? There are signs to help determine the difference. Typical age-related changes include: 

  • Sometimes forgetting names or appointments but remembering them later. 
  • Sometimes having difficulty finding the right word.
  • Misplacing things from time to time and retracing steps to find them. 


Signs to watch for that might go beyond the typical age-related changes include: 

  • Memory loss that disrupts daily life and repeating the same questions. 
  • Having trouble naming a familiar object, joining a conversation or repeating words. 
  • Placing items in unusual places or go so far as to accuse others of stealing, especially as the disease progresses. 

 

If you, a family member or friend has problems remembering recent events or thinking clearly, talk with a doctor. He or she may suggest a thorough checkup to see what might be causing the symptoms.

Everybody forgets things once in a while, but if you notice it happening more frequently, is it cause to worry?

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The easiest way to show your vaccination records

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Are you thinking about flying to your next vacation destination? Maybe you’re ready to go to a concert? As COVID-19 continues, many social situations require proof of a vaccine to participate. 


With the MyChart app on your phone, you have quick access to your vaccination records, which takes away the risk of being denied access to an event or venue because you lost your vaccine card. MyChart even provides a QR code that you can download to prove your vaccination status without logging into the app. 


To find your status within MyChart, log into the MyChart app, click “Menu,” and look for the COVID-19 virus icon.


MyChart signup


It’s quick and free to sign up for MyChart. In addition to using it to show your vaccination status, you can view test results, have a video visit with your provider, request medication refills and much more.


To get started today:

 

  • Download the MyChart App from the Apple App Store or Google Play or go to mychart.genesishcs.org
  • Click on “New user activation” and follow the easy instructions

 

MyChart Signup

Do you use MyChart?

MyChart Log in

Are you thinking about flying to your next vacation destination? Maybe you’re ready to go to a concert? As COVID-19 continues, many social situations require proof of a vaccine to participate.

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(Quiz) Exercise your mind by reading

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Taking care of your physical health is important, but so is caring for your brain. So, give your body a rest and work out your mind tonight. Lift a few words, run through paragraphs and stretch your way through a chapter. Reading can benefit your health in multiple ways. 


Want to learn more? Take our quiz and start your workout without the smelly gym clothes. 

 

 

Taking care of your physical health is important, but so is caring for your brain. Reading can benefit your health in multiple ways.

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Muskingum County’s only 24/7 pharmacy

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

A new Northside Pharmacy is coming soon to 721 Taylor St. in Zanesville. It will be Muskingum County’s only 24/7 pharmacy, giving you round-the-clock access to a pharmacist to fill or refill prescriptions and answer your medication questions. 


The new pharmacy will have goods and over-the-county medication for purchase during typical store hours. Easy drive-through access and plenty of parking will make this new location a convenient customer experience.

A new Northside Pharmacy is coming soon to 721 Taylor St. in Zanesville. It will be Muskingum County’s only 24/7 pharmacy, giving you round-the-clock access to a pharmacist to fill or refill prescriptions and answer your medication questions.

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