Evelyn Bergman ran marathons until she was 66. She was very fit, said her husband, Bill. Evelyn was even bike training into her 70s. A headache, though, on a February evening two years ago, ultimately led to a trip to the operating room. After her surgery, Bill cared for Evelyn at home as best he could, but she never fully recovered and he eventually reached out to an old friend for advice. 

“I called Alan about palliative care,” Bill recalled, referring to Alan Rosenberg, Executive Vice President of Redeemer Health Home Care and Hospice. The two gentlemen were old friends from way back. They had lunch and talked about options. Alan introduced Bill and Evelyn to Brenda Buzydlowski, DO, a palliative care specialist at Redeemer Health. 

Dr. B, as Bill calls her, explained the difference between palliative care and hospice care, and by last September Evelyn had been admitted to at-home hospice. Six months later, she passed away in the care of people who made the experience easier to bear for both of them.

Bill and Evelyn were married in 1970, led active lives and successful careers. He was a chief inspector at the Philadelphia Police Department and chief of staff at Temple University. Evelyn was a 20-year ER nurse. As a result, they both knew what compassionate service and a culture of caring are all about, and they found it at Redeemer Health.

“Redeemer Health’s home hospice program made a difficult situation easier to handle,” Bill said. “Everyone has a compassionate spirit. The nurses, the chaplains, the social workers…they care about people. And Dr. B is fabulous.” 

According to Sarah DiPadova, Director of Clinical Operations at Redeemer Health Home Care and Hospice, “Palliative care offers an additional level of education, support and care to patients and their families. Monitoring patients and managing symptoms can help prevent needless office visits and hospital admissions. But when the appropriate time comes, a palliative care team can offer the education and support necessary to make a timelier and smoother transition. The eventual hospice admission gives patients and their families more support when they need it.” 

Bill acknowledged that one of the benefits of the advanced care Evelyn received at home was avoiding burdensome trips to doctors’ offices. They also found solace in Redeemer Health hospice care being available in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, since Evelyn enjoyed spending time at the Bergmans’ beach house at the Jersey shore. 

The advice Bill and Evelyn received from Alan, and the care managed by Dr. Buzydlowski, served the couple well. “Evelyn was comfortable, in the care of people who truly made a difference. Even after she passed, I found compassion and respect during phone calls with the Redeemer team.”

To learn more about palliative care and hospice care in the home, visit Redeemer Health’s website, and call 888-678-8678 to find out how you can access care for a loved one.
 

August is National Breastfeeding Month and a great time to discover the beauty and importance of breastfeeding. If you're a new or soon-to-be mom, you've probably heard about the amazing benefits of breastfeeding. However, getting the proper guidance and support can sometimes be a challenge. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), breastfeeding is the best source of nutrition for most infants, providing all the necessary vitamins and nutrients for growth and development.

How does breastfeeding protect both mom and baby? Breast milk contains antibodies that help protect against infections and illnesses, reducing the risk of certain health conditions for both infants and mothers.

• Some of the benefits for infants include reduced risk of respiratory infections, ear infections, and diarrhea. Breastfeeding has also been linked to a lower risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
• For mothers, breastfeeding can reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, and may lower the risk of type 2 diabetes.
• Breastfeeding triggers the release of hormones such as oxytocin and prolactin, which not only promote the production of breast milk but also contribute to stress reduction and relaxation for both mother and baby.

Breastfeeding in the early weeks can sometimes be a challenge for new moms, but the benefits are worth it! Everyone in your circle can play an important role in the following ways:

• Family members can help with household chores or caring for other children, freeing up your time to focus on breastfeeding;
• Your healthcare provider can provide you with valuable information and resources, such as lactation consultants, breastfeeding support groups, or online forums, and
• If and when you return to work, your employer can assist by providing a private space for pumping, flexible schedules, and other accommodations to make continued breastfeeding feasible.

Redeemer Health can also be a great resource for women who choose to breastfeed. We have earned the Keystone 10 (K10) designation from the PA Department of Health and the American Academy of Pediatrics Pennsylvania Chapter. This recognition underscores our commitment to promoting and supporting breastfeeding. 

“Being part of the Keystone 10 quality improvement breastfeeding initiative highlights our commitment to promoting and supporting breastfeeding. It also helps us achieve our goal of enhancing breastfeeding care, rates, and ultimately enhancing the health of both moms and babies,” says Christina Marczak, Director of Maternal Child Health at Redeemer Heath.

At Redeemer Health, our compassionate, knowledgeable lactation consultants will give you personalized support and guidance every step of the way. We also offer a variety of breastfeeding resources and videos on our website and in our online community @redeemerbaby on Instagram and Facebook, where you can meet and stay connected with other new moms. 

To learn more about our maternity care services and to download other useful educational materials about childbirth, breastfeeding, and after-delivery care, visit redeemerhealth.org/maternitycare.

Certified Nurse Aides, or CNAs, are highly valued professionals who play a vital role in various health care settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies.

CNAs provide direct care to patients who may be unable to care for themselves. This may include basic needs such as bathing, dressing, and feeding. Additionally, they offer emotional support to patients and help them feel less alone during their hospital stay or rehabilitation process. 

Great Personal Reward
For many CNAs, the fulfillment they receive from helping others is the most significant personal reward of all. Stephanie Cashley, who works in long-term care at Redeemer Health’s St. Joseph Manor, got her CNA certification in 2022 and treasures the meaningful relationships she has formed with residents and their families. 

No stranger to St. Joseph Manor, Stephanie began her career there as a housekeeper and remained in that role for four years. As she was approaching her fifth year, she explains how she felt drawn to take on additional tasks that could help to enrich the lives of residents, however, those tasks fell within the role of a CNA, which required necessary education and credentialing. 

“I was encouraged by colleagues at St. Joseph Manor to enroll in Bucks County Community College’s Nurse Aid Training program,” says Stephanie.
After careful thought, Stephanie was ready to take the leap, and just several months later she had all the necessary nurse aide education, training, and certification completed. 

“I get so much joy in my role as a CNA. I love to bring a smile to the faces of my residents. They know I am someone they can talk to and confide in. I also love that I am able to personally connect with and talk to the family members of my residents. The families really appreciate that I am here to assist on a daily basis and that I can keep them informed about their loved ones’ special moments throughout the day, says Stephanie. 

CNAs Can Expect to See the Field Greatly Expand
Besides the personal rewards of becoming a CNA, it’s equally encouraging to know that career prospects are very promising. The nurse aide profession is projected to grow by an impressive 25% over the next 15 years. This growth, coupled with the increasing demand for health care services, opens up opportunities for CNAs to earn rates averaging $17-$22+ per hour. 

In addition, becoming a CNA can serve as a stepping stone to further advance in the health care field. Many CNAs choose to continue their education and pursue higher levels of certification, such as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Registered Nurses (RNs).

Train and Get Certified in About Four Months!
If you believe becoming a CNA is the right career path for you, Redeemer Health, in partnership with Bucks County Community College, offers a three-month nurse aide training program that combines classroom education and practical experience at two Redeemer Health long-term care facilities: Lafayette and St. Joseph Manor. Classes run September 20-December 14, every Wednesday and Thursday.

Learn More Today!

Now is a great time to focus on the importance of men’s health and wellness. Awareness, prevention, and education are key, as are health screenings, which can help detect issues early as men age.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease and cancer are among the top leading causes of death for men. This is an essential reminder that men’s health should be taken seriously, and early detection can play a critical role in managing and preventing some of these issues.

Recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), an independent voluntary panel of experts in primary care, prevention, and evidence-based practice, include a roster of screenings appropriate for men of any age. Below are just a few:

• Regular blood pressure checks to detect hypertension.
• Checking cholesterol levels to prevent heart-related issues (for men aged 35 and above). Consult your primary care physician to discuss the option of undergoing a low dose CT cardiac calcium score test, which can aid in the early detection of any potential issues.
• Colorectal cancer screening (beginning at age 45 for average-risk men or earlier based on family history).
• Screening for Type 2 Diabetes (starting at age 35 for men with risk factors such as obesity or family history). Did you know, nutritional counseling services are available through our partnership with Simplex Health? To learn more, visit simplexhealth.com or call 1-877-842-2425.
• Discussing the benefits and risks of prostate cancer screening with a health care professional (for men aged 50 or older).
• Lung cancer screening (at age 55 for current or past smokers). You may be a candidate for a low-dose CT (LDCT) scan, which can detect lung cancer earlier. Click here for more information or call 215-938-LUNG (5864).
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening (at age 65 for men who have never smoked).

These are only general guidelines and there are others to consider for issues like alcohol use disorder, depression, obesity, tobacco use, HIV, Hepatitis B and C, and syphilis, for example. 

You should always consult with your doctor for personalized recommendations based on your individual needs and risk factors. It may also help to have additional conversations about diabetes, skin cancer prevention, and a diet designed to prevent cardiovascular disease. 

Finally, your doctor can also assist in determining which vaccines may require a booster or re-dose. While vaccines for flu and COVID-19 are top of mind these days, you should also ask about vaccines for pneumonia, Tdap, shingles, meningitis, chicken pox, and Hepatitis A and B.

To find a doctor who is right for you, visit our provider directory or call the Redeemer Health Physician Referral Service at 800-818-4747.

Preventive Screenings Chart

Redeemer Health Maternity is here with you throughout your most precious journey. From planning to become pregnant, to post-delivery, and beyond - our team of dedicated, experienced professionals are available to assist. We've heard from a few moms who shared their experiences and offered words of advice to expecting moms!

Farah, Mom and baby girl Suhani
"I had the best experience at Redeemer Health - my doctor, nurses and all the staff there are so friendly, supportive, and professional. They were always ready to help me and my husband. Ask as many questions as you want to ask and just relax because you are in good hands."

Jess, Mom of 3 - Makenzie, Ryan and Nolan
"My experience at Redeemer Health each time was very different. I had a natural birth, an induced birth and the grand finale, an emergency C-section. The nurses treated me like I was a friend they've known forever. They made sure I was always comfortable and always answered any question I had. My favorite part of being a Redeemer Mom is the connections I made with the nurses. While being in the NICU with my third, they became my family. I love being able to randomly text them pictures of my kids and catch up with them. They genuinely care about you!

A tip I would pass on to another Redeemer Mom - take the picture. Life flies by so fast, take pictures with your kids, of your kids, and create memories they will forever remember."

Amanda, Mom and baby boy Averi
"My experience at Redeemer Health was honestly amazing! I had high blood pressure during the end of my pregnancy and needed to be induced. I got a room at 11 p.m. and gave birth around noon the next day! Through it all the nurses were so supportive and encouraging! They answered all the questions I had, and as a first time mom I had quite a few! My favorite part of being a Redeemer Mom is the community and experiences we're all able to share, and the advice!"

Keychla, Mom of 3 - Amari, Anthony and Aura
"My experience at Redeemer Health was amazing every time. I love how friendly all the nurses are and how I felt heard and cared for without judgement every time. I always tell everyone to go to Redeemer Health! My favorite part of being a Redeemer Mom is knowing that my children and I are always cared for whenever we walk through those doors! I would tell other Redeemer Moms to have faith that everything will turn out exactly the way it needs to, and to always trust your gut and ask questions. The nurses/doctors will answer every question with their best ability."

To find an OB/GYN or to learn more about our maternity services, please visit us at redeemerhealth.org/maternity. Want to join our community or share your maternity story? Please join us at @Redeemerbaby on Facebook or Instagram.

Redeemer Health in partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper earned a three-year accreditation from the Commission on Cancer, a quality program affiliated with the American College of Surgeons. Qualifying for “Comprehensive Community Cancer Program” accreditation means it meets 34 quality care standards and maintain levels of excellence in the delivery of comprehensive patient-centered care. 

Accreditation provides focus on quality for cancer prevention, early diagnosis, cancer staging, optimal treatment, rehabilitation, life-long follow-up for recurrent disease, and end-of-life care, explained William Scarlett, DO, Sr. VP of Cancer Care at Redeemer Health in partnership with MD Anderson at Cooper, and Medical Director of Health Care Delivery at Holy Redeemer Hospital. “As an accredited center, we take a multidisciplinary approach to treating cancer as a complex group of diseases that requires consultation among surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists, diagnostic radiologists, pathologists, and other cancer specialists. This multidisciplinary partnership results in improved patient care,” he said.

This achievement also gives patients access to information about clinical trials and new treatments. Included are genetic counseling, psycho-social support, a patient navigation process, and a survivorship care plan that documents the care each patient receives.

Stroke is a serious and often life-threatening medical emergency that happens when the blood flow to the brain is interrupted. According to the American Heart Association, approximately 795,000 people in the U.S. suffer from a stroke every year, and every 3.5 minutes, one person dies from a stroke.

Approximately 80% of all strokes are caused by lifestyle choices. 

Keep reading to learn more about the warning signs and risk factors for stroke, as well as dietary changes and other steps you can take to help reduce your risk. 

Know the Warning Signs
Every second counts when it comes to treating a stroke. Early intervention can prevent permanent brain damage and other complications. If you suspect a stroke is happening to you or someone you love, call 911 immediately. 

Look at the time of onset and use the B.E.F.A.S.T. test (below) to help remember the warning signs of stroke:

Know the Risk Factors
Risk factors for stroke include high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol levels, obesity, physical inactivity, family history of stroke, and age (those over age 55 have a higher risk). 

Other factors that may increase the likelihood of stroke include atrial fibrillation, previous stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), certain medical conditions such as sickle cell disease, and the use of certain medications.*

*The benefits of certain medications may outweigh the potential risks. Always follow your doctor's advice regarding medication changes or adjustments.

A Healthy Diet and Physical Activity Can Lower Your Risk
Eating a healthy diet and making healthy choices, such as choosing fruits and vegetables, limiting processed and high-fat foods, and limiting alcohol consumption, can help lower your risk of stroke. 

In addition, being active for a minimum of 30 minutes every day can help control blood pressure, increase good cholesterol, and make your heart stronger. Physical activity also makes your blood vessels more flexible and reduces the chance of having a stroke. 

Making Small Changes Now is Worth it for a Lifetime of Better Health Later!
Not only during Stroke Awareness Month, but all year long – make your health a priority. A healthy lifestyle not only promotes overall well-being and improves quality of life, but it can also be life-saving. 

Talk to your doctor about lifestyle choices that can help prevent stroke from happening in the future.

To find a Redeemer Health family doctor or primary care physician, visit the Redeemer Health website.

MEADOWBROOK, Pa. – May. 3, 2023 – Holy Redeemer Hospital received an “A” grade for hospital safety for the eighth time in a row from the Leapfrog Group. The spring 2023 grade reveals high achievements in staff and leadership working together to prevent errors, communication with nurses, and safe medication administration. The hospital has scored an “A” every semiannual cycle since fall 2019. 

According to the Leapfrog Group, Holy Redeemer Hospital is among only 29% of hospitals nationwide to achieve an "A" grade this spring. There were only 59 hospitals to achieve an "A" in Pennsylvania. Scores are based on more than 30 national performance measures reflecting errors, accidents, injuries, infections, and harm prevention. 

“At the national level, we saw deterioration in patient safety with the pandemic,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “But this hospital received an ‘A’ despite those challenges. I congratulate all the leaders, staff, volunteers and clinicians who together made that possible.”

According to William Scarlett, DO, MHCM, FACS, FACOS, Senior Vice President Cancer Care and Health Care Delivery at Redeemer Health, “Maintaining high scores in error prevention and medication administration over a long period of time reflects a culture of safety. This reveals the ongoing commitment made by every teammate in our hospital.”

The Leapfrog Group, an independent national organization, assigns letter grades to hospitals across the country based on more than 30 performance measures reflecting errors, accidents, injuries and infections, as well as the systems hospitals have in place to prevent harm. According to the Leapfrog Group, its hospital safety grade is the only ratings program based exclusively on hospital prevention of medical errors and harm to patients. The grading system is peer-reviewed, fully transparent and free to the public. An “A” is a sign that hospitals are continuously evaluating their performance, so that they can best protect patients, according to the Leapfrog Group.

“Our continued success in patient safety is celebrated at Redeemer Health,” said Jeanette Teets, VP and Chief Quality, Safety and Reliability Officer. “This level of high performance is evidence of our focus and responsiveness from everyone, every day.”

Moving into a senior living community apartment is a great way to enjoy the rewards of retirement. From having access to social activities and amenities, to gaining peace of mind knowing there is help nearby if needed, seniors who make the move are often surprised by just how much they love and benefit from their new home.

Enjoying Companionship

Making friends contributes to our well-being. Seniors who live at a senior living community can connect with peers who have similar interests through various fun activities like art, games, and fitness programs.

Boosting Wellness

Senior living communities can help to foster better physical and mental health for residents. On-site medical care is readily accessible, in addition to fitness centers and classes promoting a healthy lifestyle. Residents enjoy staying active, engaged, socializing with peers, and staying independent for longer.

Gaining Peace of Mind

Many senior living communities have secure entrances and staff available day and night. Additional features like emergency call buttons, ramps, elevators, and grab bars provide extra peace of mind for residents and their families. Some communities also offer transportation services to residents for nearby shopping and doctor’s appointments. These features ensure safety and comfort to all residents.

Eliminating Home Maintenance and Its Costs

Senior living communities typically offer fixed monthly fees that include a wide range of services and amenities. This can be a huge relief for seniors who are tired of managing multiple bills and expenses each month. In addition, moving into a senior living community means there are no more home maintenance costs—which can be a large expense for seniors who live in homes that require frequent upkeep and repairs. Residents can enjoy greater security knowing their home is kept up-to-date with no additional effort or cost required!

Enjoying a Worry-free Lifestyle

Moving into a senior living community can be a very rewarding experience. With so much provided under one roof, residents can enjoy more time doing what they love. Additionally, the sense of security and fellowship provided by being part of a larger community is priceless.

Ultimately, a senior living community offers many benefits that can help enhance life during retirement, making it a sensible and worthy choice to consider.

It's All Right Here at Lafayette

A Redeemer Health senior living community, Lafayette offers all of the benefits described in this article—and more!

The community is located in Fox Chase, a neighborhood featuring tree-lined streets and beautiful green spaces. In fact, one of the many perks of living at Lafayette is the stunning views of Pennypack Park that residents can enjoy year-round.

Lafayette offers stylish, newly renovated apartments and a lively social atmosphere with a full calendar of activities, programs, and events. In addition, the community takes care of chores like housekeeping and linen service while offering many on-site conveniences such as a country store, bank, beauty salon/barber shop, and health care services.

Lafayette is perfect for seniors who want a worry-free lifestyle. Learn more today! Schedule a tour or speak with a residential sales coordinator now. Call 215-214-5877 or visit redeemerhealth.org/LafayetteLiving.