http://www.ochsner.org/news/ en sfalanga@ochsner.org Copyright 2009 2009-11-06T16:28:56-06:00 http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/ochsner_st_anne_hosts_free_diabetes_education_day_featuring_chef_john_wrigh/ http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/ochsner_st_anne_hosts_free_diabetes_education_day_featuring_chef_john_wrigh/#When:15:28:56Z RACELAND, LA - On Wednesday, November 18, 2009, from 7:30am-2pm, Ochsner St. Anne General Hospital will host Diabetes Education Day, a free, community event offering nutritional tips, a cooking demonstration by Chef John Wright, and an hour-long Q&A with registered nurses. Local residents are encouraged to attend this free event at 4608 Hwy 1 in Raceland, to register call (985) 537-8350. "Since the late 90's, Louisiana has had the highest diabetes death rate in the U.S.," says Mae Hitt, Community Outreach Director Ochsner St. Anne General Hospital. "Education is the single most important way to help residents manage their condition, especially as the holidays approach," she adds. Local residents can participate in the following educational lectures throughout the event:• 7:30am: Registration• 8am:      Managing Your Diabetes with Angelique Torres, Nurse Practitioner • 9am:      Diabetic Wound Care with Tim Foret, RN, CWS, Wound Care Specialist• 10am:    Latest Nutritional Updates• 11am:    Living with Diabetes Cooking Demo with Chef John Wright• 12pm:    Free Lunch• 1pm:      Q&A Session with Mae Hitt, RN, CDE and Karen Keiser, RD, LDN Chef John Wright, who currently works for a diabetes supply company, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at 13 years old and has mastered the art of cooking healthy with loads of flavor without the fat and calories. "Diabetes doesn't mean you have to sacrifice flavor, after all, in Southeast Louisiana, flavor is what it's all about," says Wright. A native New Orleanian, Wright holds a degree in the culinary arts from Delgado College and has worked at some of New Orleans best restaurants including Emeril's, Bella Luna and Smith & Wollenski's. "Chef Wrights' practical, home-style approach to gourmet cooking with just the right amount of nutritional information and easy instruction thrown in is helping people with diabetes live a fuller life," says Hitt. ### General News, Press Release, Display on Homepage 2009-11-06T15:28:56-06:00 http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/ochsner_nephrologists_recognized_for_excellent_patient_care_by_national_dia/ http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/ochsner_nephrologists_recognized_for_excellent_patient_care_by_national_dia/#When:15:18:13Z NEW ORLEANS - Ochsner Nephrologists Dr. Fred Husserl and Dr. Pierre Blemur, who serve as local medical directors of two Fresenius Medical Center - Ochsner dialysis units, have been recognized for their excellence in patient care with the Gold Level - Fresenius Medical Care (FMC) Centers of Excellence Award. The Ochsner physician group, individually and collectively, have been recognized for their leadership in 2008 and 2009 at the following locations: - Fresenius Medical Center - Ochsner New Orleans - Home Department, 1319 Jefferson Highway, Suite 2, Jefferson, LA, (504) 842-3520 - Fresenius Medical Center - Ochsner Westbank Dialysis , 4899 Westbank Expressway, Suite B, Marrero, LA, (504) 340-0371 "These achievements are a reflection of the entire Ochsner Nephrology staff and Fresenius Medical Care's unified team approach to provide high quality care for those who suffer from chronic renal failure. We strive to improve patient experiences and outcomes; I am proud of this recognition and share it with my entire staff," says Dr. Catherine Staffeld, Interim Chair, Department of Nephrology. The Gold Level mark of distinction is based upon a comparison of all FMC clinics/programs in the U.S. Honors are based according to medical scores in ultrascore, patient satisfaction, diabetic foot checks, transplant education and additional medical categories. Clinics must be financially viable and free of any condition-level deficiency. Their census must also be >25 for in-center hemo and >10 for home PD. In consideration of those criteria, an award at the Gold Level is quite an achievement. ###   General News, Press Release, Display on Homepage 2009-11-02T15:18:13-06:00 http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/november_1_30_ochsner_exhibits_cancer_patients_art_work/ http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/november_1_30_ochsner_exhibits_cancer_patients_art_work/#When:13:42:34Z NEW ORLEANS - The entire month of November 2009, Ochsner Medical Center is honored to display the Lilly Oncology On Canvas, a free, public art exhibit featuring works by actual cancer patients. The show is designed to honor the physical and emotional journeys people face when confronted by a cancer diagnosis. The 45-piece Ochsner exhibit, which includes several Louisiana artists, is on display 24 hours, 7 days a week at 1514 Jefferson Highway, New Orleans in the hospital's 1st floor Art Walk. Ochsner will host an opening reception on Thursday, November 5 at 4pm in the hospital atrium with speakers from the Ochsner Cancer Institute. Lilly Oncology On Canvas was launched in 2004, received more than 400 pieces of art from 23 countries, and began a world tour in 2005 that reached millions of people in more than 100 cities. Following its initial success, the 2006 program received more than 2,000 pieces of art and toured nearly 200 cities worldwide. The 2008 competition, which is currently touring cancer centers, hospitals, patient advocacy group meetings and other venues nationwide, included 26 prizes awarded to 20 different cancer charities selected by the 19 winners in categories including:- From hope to fear- The loss of individualism- Support of family and friends- Memory of those lost- Perseverance of those who survive In addition to displaying the 2008 competition winners, Ochsner is also hosting the Lilly competition in which individuals diagnosed with any type of cancer and family members are encouraged to express, through art, the life-affirming changes that give their cancer journeys meaning. Entries will be accepted through June 2010. The competition, which selects the winning artworks to tour the world, occurs every two years (biennial). The current competition began in 2009, ends in June 2010, and is open to all U.S. and Puerto Rico residents. Winners are selected by an independent panel of judges, including past winners, cancer survivors, leading oncologists, journalists, patient advocacy groups, and the competition art director. The end result is a compelling art collection that provides insights into the wide range of emotions experienced by those touched by cancer. For further information on Lilly Oncology On Canvas, including how to enter the 2010 competition, call (866) 991-LOOC (5662) or visit http://www.LillyOncologyOnCanvas.com. About Lilly: Lilly Oncology On Canvas is presented by Lilly USA, LLC, a pharmaceutical company committed to advancing cancer research and treatment, in partnership with the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship (NCCS), which advocates for quality cancer care for all Americans and provides tools and resources that empower people affected by cancer to advocate for themselves. ###   General News, Press Release, Display on Homepage 2009-11-02T13:42:34-06:00 http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/new_orleans_saints_visit_patients_at_ochsner_medical_center/ http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/new_orleans_saints_visit_patients_at_ochsner_medical_center/#When:18:36:04Z On Wednesday, October 28, 2009, three New Orleans Saints Players, #6 Thomas Morstead, #21 Mike Bell, and #74 Jermon Bushrod visited Ochsner Medical Center's Pediatric Unit and Chemotherapy Infusion Center. Geaux Saints!     General News, Press Release, Display on Homepage 2009-10-28T18:36:04-06:00 http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/new_orleans_hornets_visit_ochsner_medical_center_pediatric_unit/ http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/new_orleans_hornets_visit_ochsner_medical_center_pediatric_unit/#When:19:51:50Z New Orleans - On Monday, October 19, 2009, two New Orleans Hornets players kicked off their week with a visit to Ochsner Medical Center - New Orleans' Pediatric Unit. New Orleans Hornets Guard Morris Peterson and Center, Hilton Armstrong, distributed toys, books and T-shirts to patients as part of the National Basketball Association's Week of Service. Photos of Monday's events are featured below:     General News, Press Release, Display on Homepage 2009-10-21T19:51:50-06:00 http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/halloween_tips_to_fight_childhood_obesity_and_h1n1/ http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/halloween_tips_to_fight_childhood_obesity_and_h1n1/#When:12:29:53Z NEW ORLEANS - Halloween conjures up images of pumpkin buckets of overflowing candy, door-to-door trick-or-treating, and costumed children. But with the growing epidemic of childhood obesity and the spread of H1N1, many parents are looking for a more health-conscious way to celebrate the ghoulish holiday. Ochsner offers the following tips for a health-conscious, yet fun-filled, Halloween: Healthy "Treats":"Sugarless gum, pre-packaged cheese and crackers, trail mix, nuts, corn nuts, granola bars, small bags of pretzels or popcorn, goldfish cracker packages, individual hot chocolate packages and raisins are a great alternative to chocolates and sugary snacks," says Elesha Kelleher, Ochsner Registered Dietician. She also suggests avoiding candy altogether and opting for fun-filled treats such as: stickers, balloons, crayons, pencils, colored chalk, whistles, rubber spiders and worms. Although it's tempting, parents need to take control and help children pace themselves when it comes to indulging in their bountiful treats. "It's a good idea to have a sensible dinner before heading door-to-door, or at least a healthy snack. Eating something other than sugar-filled candy in advance, can really cut down on tummy aches later," says Kelleher. "Children need to enjoy their Halloween treats over several days and weeks - not all in one night. Rationing Halloween candy for your kids is a great way to teach them that most foods are okay, in moderation," she adds. Germ-Avoiding "Tricks":Top on every parents worry list this All Hallow's Eve is the spread of the H1N1 virus. With children going door-to-door, and accepting treats being handled by many, parents need to take extra precautions. Dr. Katherine Baumgarten, Medical Director of Ochsner Infection Control, offers the following suggestions: Remind children to cover their nose and mouth with a tissue when they sneeze, or sneeze into the crook of their elbows. Wash hands thoroughly before eating any treats. (Carry hand sanitizer in case your goblins can't wait till you get home.) Don't allow sharing or trading of costume masks. Discourage kids from touching their eyes, mouth, or nose since that is the quickest way to spread germs and contract viruses and if your child has flu-like symptoms, encourage them to stay home.###   General News, Press Release, Display on Homepage 2009-10-21T12:29:53-06:00 http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/ochsner_administers_h1n1_vaccine_injections_based_on_cdc_and_la_dhh_recomme/ http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/ochsner_administers_h1n1_vaccine_injections_based_on_cdc_and_la_dhh_recomme/#When:15:54:20Z NEW ORLEANS - Today, Tuesday, October 20, Ochsner Health System locations in southeast Louisiana will begin offering the 2009 H1N1 injections to our patients based on recommendations by the CDC and State of Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals (LA DHH) through scheduled physician appointments. Due to the limited vaccines available at this time, the CDC and LA DHH recommend initial vaccines be given to the following populations: Children ages 6 months to 4 years of age Pregnant women Front line healthcare workers Household contacts for children younger than 6 months of age Children ages 5-18 with chronic health conditions including asthma As supplies increase, additional groups recommended by the CDC to receive the 2009 H1N1 vaccine include: All healthcare and emergency medical services personnel  All people from 6 months through 24 years of age o The CDC recommends that for children 9 years and younger, the H1N1 be administered in two doses separated by 4 weeks. Persons aged 25 through 64 years who have health conditions associated with a higher risk of medical complications from influenza. The H1N1 injection (shot) does NOT contain live viruses and is given with a needle, usually in the arm. "Over the next couple of months, we expect to receive more H1N1 vaccines which will be administered according to CDC guidelines and recommendations by the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals," says Dr. Katherine Baumgarten, M.D., Medical Director of Infection Control for Ochsner Health System. "We ask that everyone be patient." ###   General News, Press Release, Display on Homepage 2009-10-20T15:54:20-06:00 http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/36_ochsner_nurses_named_in_2009s_great_100_nurses_of_louisiana/ http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/36_ochsner_nurses_named_in_2009s_great_100_nurses_of_louisiana/#When:12:37:16Z NEW ORLEANS - Ochsner Health System is proud to announce that 36 of its Registered Nurses are among the top 100 brightest in Louisiana. Three dozen Ochsner nurses will be honored for their outstanding contributions to the profession at the Great 100 Nurses Celebration on October 28th. Ochsner's nursing staff has a history of acknowledgments by the Great 100 Nurses Foundation for their commitment to patient care, including:- 2009: 36 nurses- 2008: 39 nurses- 2007: 33 nurses- 2006: 25 nurses "This prestigious award is a tremendous honor for our nurses and the organization; we're very proud of their accomplishments and our entire nursing staff," said Nancy Davis, RN, Senior Vice President of Patient Care Services and System Chief Nursing Officer. "Nursing can be a demanding job and we appreciate the dedication and hard work our staff puts into their profession." Ochsner's 36, "Great 100 Nurses" include: Ochsner Medical Center, New Orleans:Maria A. Allen, RN Greta B. Bayers, RN Barbie A Conley, RN Perla F. Daguil, RNPleshetta Dillon, RN Jamie L.Gambino RN Tina Gipson, RN Amanda Gregoire, RN Donna K. Groteguth, RN Sally Guice, RNDiane Hendawi, RNJonathan M. Jenkins, RNBethany C. Jennings, RNVirginia F. Resor, RNYolanda Roberson, RN Colleen Sherman, RNJeanie Shiber, RNPaula Simon, RNErin V. Trembley, RNClaudette B. Williams, RN Ochsner Health Center, North Shore:Wendy Meibaum, RN Ochsner Medical Center - Kenner:Lee Ann Dooley, RNJames E. House, RN Lillie A. Quiett, RNPam W. Ryan, RNLorena Villalobos, RN Ochsner Medical Center - West Bank campus:Thomas Butler, RNKathleen Fletcher-Carey, RN Terry M. Joseph, RNShari Lepine, RNEdrice Morton, RN Wendy Nichols, RNJean H. Stall, RNKaren Wynn, RN Ochsner Medical Center - Baton Rouge:Sheila N. Reynaud, RNSydney P. Prescott, RN The 100 Great Nurses of Louisiana was founded in 1986 as a way to recognize outstanding nurses and their accomplishments and successes. The honorees are selected by their peers and patients, based on their humanity, as well as their contribution to the community and the nursing profession. All nurses will be honored on October 28, at 7:00 pm, in the Pontchartrain Center, Kenner, LA.   General News, Press Release, Display on Homepage 2009-10-06T12:37:16-06:00 http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/2009_alton_ochsner_award_relating_smoking_and_disease/ http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/2009_alton_ochsner_award_relating_smoking_and_disease/#When:12:31:25Z   NEW ORLEANS, LA - The Selection Committee for the 2009 Alton Ochsner Award Relating Smoking and Disease is pleased to announce the selection of its 24th Annual Award to Steven A. Belinsky, PhD. Dr. Belinsky is the Director of the Lung Cancer Program, Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute, Co-Director of the Cancer Epidemiology and Control Program for the University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, and Associate Director of the Johns Hopkins University Lung SPORE.   Dr. Belinsky received his undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and did his Postdoctoral Fellowship with the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences of the National Institutes of Health. Throughout his investigative career, Dr. Belinsky has focused his attention on the long­standing effects of cigarette smoking on the genetic and molecular changes in cells that produce lung cancer. His fundamental research studies have been applied to patient care resulting in the early detection of cancer in biological fluids. This research work has made it possible to identify lung cancer cells early in the disease in the sputum of patients with a history of cigarette smoking. Hopefully, his work will permit early detection of the disease resulting in earlier treatment of these patients.   Prior recipients of the Ochsner Award have been honored for work demonstrating critical relationships between tobacco smoking and nicotine addiction with: lung cancer and other malignancies; lung function and emphysema; and with other diseases including atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease. The Award is named for the late Doctor Alton Ochsner, the first person to recognize that cigarette smoking is the major factor underlying lung cancer.   The Alton Ochsner A ward is supported by the Ochsner Clinic Foundation and recognizes outstanding scientific achievements that have provided pivotal insights into the fundamental biological and clinical mechanisms that relate tobacco consumption to human disease The Award winner receives a cash award, a special medallion, and a scroll which will be presented to the honoree at the Annual Convocation of the American College of Chest Physicians during its scientific sessions to be held in San Diego, CA on November 1, 2009.         General News, Press Release, Display on Homepage 2009-10-06T12:31:25-06:00 http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/ochsner_hosts_family_fundraiser2/ http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/ochsner_hosts_family_fundraiser2/#When:13:19:56Z NEW ORLEANS - On Saturday, October 3, 2009, from 4pm-7pm, Ochsner and Capital One Bank will host "Party 4 Peds" for local families as it transforms its Children's Health Center at 1315 Jefferson Highway into a fun-filled, family fundraiser for Ochsner Pediatrics. The action-packed party includes entertainment by Radio Disney, refreshments by local restaurants, and entertainment including large inflatable play stations, stilt walkers, t-shirt art, and jewelry/key chain making. For adults, a live auction will be held for two suite tickets for the upcoming Miley Cyrus Concert and there will be a silent auction featuring weekend get-a-ways, dining gift certificates and more. "Having a child in the hospital can create a terrible financial burden as well as an emotional burden on families, that's why we've selected the Ochsner Pediatric Family Assistance Fund as a beneficiary of this event; it helps families of hospitalized children by enabling Ochsner to help with travel and other expenses regarding our smallest patients," explains Dr. Douglas Moodie, Pediatric Cardiologist and Chairman of Ochsner's Department of Pediatrics. Another beneficiary is the pediatric literacy initiative, Reach Out and Read. Reach Out and Read distributes new books to children, encourages family reading and helps physicians better diagnose communication disorders by using books during well-child visits. "Now is your child's chance to return the ‘favor' for those eventful office visits with a dunking booth," says Dr. Moodie. Staff up to the challenge include: Dr. Vincent Adolph, Dr. Daniel Bronfin, Dr. Charles Kantrow, Erin Montgomery, LPN, "Missy" Pecoraro, RN, Dr. Christopher Snyder, Dr. Elliot Tucker, and Dr. Thomas Young. Chairing this year's event are Malin Maitrejean and Maribeth McNamara. Tickets are $50 per adult (18 and over) and $20 per child (toddlers and babies under 2 years are free). Call 504-842-7113 or visit http://www.ochsner.org for more information or to purchase tickets. General News, Press Release, Display on Homepage 2009-09-30T13:19:56-06:00 http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/h1n1_influenza_swine_flu_information/ http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/h1n1_influenza_swine_flu_information/#When:19:54:06Z Ochsner Offers New Advice to Help Prevent the Spread of H1N1 (Swine Flu) Ochsner Health System, in conjunction with the CDC, has new advice for healthy individuals who have flu-like symptoms - stay home and rest. Don't plan to visit the doctor's office unless your symptoms worsen, as you will be exposing even more people to the virus. However, physicians caution that if you are considered "high risk," you should call your physician immediately for advice on what to do. "We know that H1N1 is going to continue to spread throughout the community. Therefore, our goal is to appropriately care for individuals, while reducing ER overcrowding and additional spread of the illness. We would like to provide education on when to seek medical care and when to remain at home," explains Dr. Katherine Baumgarten, Ochsner Medical Director of Infection Control. Ochsner is encouraging local residents to follow the recommended CDC advice: Healthy individuals are asked not to visit the doctor with onset of symptoms. Instead, remain at home, away from other individuals, in order to recover and reduce the spread of H1N1. Individuals who are asked to call their physicians, with onset of symptoms, include the following high-risk populations: Immuno-compromised (example: cancer, transplant, diabetes, HIV, those with underlying lung disease) Pregnant women Parents of young children (less than 5 years) Older population (greater than 65 years) Dr. Baumgarten explains, "If you have flu-like symptoms and are otherwise healthy and not a high-risk category, Ochsner physicians recommend plenty of fluids, Tylenol, and plenty of rest." She advises that Tamiflu, an antiviral drug that helps to treat the flu, will only be administered to high-risk populations and explains, "Most individuals are able to weather the illness as they do the seasonal flu." As with any illness, it can occasionally worsen in otherwise healthy adults. Individuals are advised to seek care without delay if they begin experiencing the following symptoms: Shortness of breath Chest pain Confusion Intractable nausea and vomiting Return of high fever after original fever has gone away Warning signs for children to seek immediate emergency medical care include: Fast breathing or trouble breathing Bluish or gray skin color Not drinking enough fluids Not urinating as usual Severe or persistent vomiting Not waking up or interacting as usual Being so irritable that he or she does not even want to be held Fever returns after being absent or a significant change in fever pattern (101 degrees for several days then 103 degrees) If residents follow this advice, potential over-crowding in local ERs and the spread of the virus can be reduced. Physicians are trying to avoid having non-infected patients get the H1N1 virus from others in patient waiting areas. "The H1N1 virus is comparable to the seasonal flu in its effects on the population. Every year, millions of Americans catch the flu and recover, and every year we suffer some deaths. H1N1 can be dangerous to some individuals but for the majority of the population it's simply an uncomfortable experience," adds Baumgarten. All individuals are encouraged to get the seasonal flu shot, which will be available in mid to late September. An H1N1 vaccine is not expected to be available until late fall and will then only be distributed to high-risk populations as directed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). For more information on H1N1, click here. General News, Display on Homepage 2009-09-22T19:54:06-06:00 http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/ochsner_offers_free_prostate_screening_blood_tests1/ http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/ochsner_offers_free_prostate_screening_blood_tests1/#When:13:40:21Z NEW ORLEANS - In conjunction with Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, Ochsner Medical Center at 1514 Jefferson Highway on Wednesday, September 23, will offer free PSA blood tests for men over 40 years of age from 10:00am - 2:00pm in the Main Atrium to screen for prostate cancer. No appointment is required, and information about prostate health, screening, diagnosis and the latest treatment options will be available. Additionally, Ochsner will offer demonstrations of its da Vinci "S" Surgical System. A PSA is a quick, easy blood test that measures the level of the prostate specific antigen made by the prostate. Rising PSA levels can occur with age, non-cancerous and cancer conditions, and can be the first step in detecting early-stage prostate cancer. Ochsner is the designated training center in the Gulf Coast Region for the da Vinci "S" Surgical System®, by Intuitive Surgical, a technology that allows physicians to perform intricate operations through tiny incisions, improving patient recovery times with less pain. Ochsner is one of a few select centers in the world with the "S" Elite model of da Vinci, and physicians throughout the Gulf South region and around the world are trained at Ochsner on the S-model in techniques of minimally-invasive surgery; specifically in urology and gynecology. Da Vinci offers patients a minimally-invasive treatment option in a broad range of medical conditions. Ochsner's investment in the da Vinci System began in 2005 performing laparoscopic prostatectomy, of which Ochsner is now a national leader. The technology enhances a physician's surgical capabilities and precision by scaling their exact hand movements into micro-instruments within the operative site. With da Vinci, a surgeon is seated at a console a few feet from the patient, operating through 1-2 cm incisions with the instruments replicating his exact movements. In addition to improved patient recovery time and less pain, the da Vinci also offers smaller incisions, less blood loss, and earlier return to full activity. For more information, please call Tammy Sill at 504-842-3540. General News, Press Release, Display on Homepage 2009-09-22T13:40:21-06:00 http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/ochsner_transplant_surgeon_at_d_tour_independent_movie_premiere/ http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/ochsner_transplant_surgeon_at_d_tour_independent_movie_premiere/#When:14:38:59Z NEW ORLEANS, LA - On Saturday, September 19, 2009, at 6pm, Ochsner Transplant Surgeon Dr. George Loss joins San Francisco, indie rock band, Rogue Wave in raising awareness of organ donation. Loss joins other local transplant experts at the Samuel DuBois Cook Fine Arts Center at Dillard University, 2601 Gentilly Blvd., for the premiere of the independent movie D Tour, the story of a rock band member who chronicles his medical tribulations as he awaits kidney transplant. The film is FREE and open to the public. Following the screening, a panel of experts will take questions from the audience regarding organ transplant. Local speakers include:- Katy Quigley, Organ Donor- Torie Kranze, National Kidney Foundation of Louisiana- Dr. George Loss, Ochsner Abdominal Transplantation Section- Jerald L. White, Charitable Film Network D Tour Movie Synopsis: Pat Spurgeon has big dreams to make it as an indie rock musician. Just as his career is about to take off, he suffers an incredible setback when one of his kidneys begins to fail. Follow Pat on his emotional search for a living organ donor. But can he balance his health with a rock n' roll lifestyle? The movie premier is hosted by:- Charitable Film Network- Crescent City Peace Alliance- Dillard University Theater Department- Public Broadcasting Service- Corporation for Public Broadcasting- Independent Television Service. For more information visit:- myspace.com/communitycinemaneworleans- communitycinema.org- mail@chairtablefilmnetwork.org### General News, Press Release, Display on Homepage 2009-09-18T14:38:59-06:00 http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/ask_ochsner_cable_call_in_show_launches_in_baton_rouge/ http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/ask_ochsner_cable_call_in_show_launches_in_baton_rouge/#When:14:51:26Z BATON ROUGE, LA - If you watched Ochsner's launch of the "Ask Ochsner" call-in show last night on Cox Channel 4, you may want to learn more about herbal and alternative therapies for arthritis pain. Dr. Stephen Lindsay, head of Rheumatology at Ochsner Medical Center - Baton Rouge, discussed the topic in detail with host Dr. Jay Brooks and recommended the following web sites, as additional tools for patients with arthritis. • http://www.naturaldatabase.com - a Comprehensive Database of Scientific Gold Standard for Evidence-Based, Clinical Information on Natural Medicines• http://www.consumerlab.com - Vitamins, herbs, and other supplements are not regularly tested by any government organization. But, this website evaluates nutritional supplements in a laboratory environment. • http://www.pubmed.gov - PubMed is a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine that includes over 19 million citations from MEDLINE and other life science journals for biomedical articles back to 1948. Ochsner.org is also a resource for patients with arthritis pain, offering advice on early diagnosis and treatment to reduce pain. You can find a rheumatologist near you by searching in the "Find a Doctor" section of Ochsner.org. Dr. Jay Brooks, Ochsner Oncologist, is serving as the host of the "Ask Ochsner" show. Tune in for the next episode on September 30 at 6:30pm as Dr. Brooks discusses the novel H1N1 virus with special guest Dr. Robert Hart, Medical Director of Ochsner Medical Center - Baton Rouge. General News, Press Release, Display on Homepage 2009-09-03T14:51:26-06:00 http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/ochsner_offers_new_advice_to_help_prevent_the_spread_of_h1n1/ http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/ochsner_offers_new_advice_to_help_prevent_the_spread_of_h1n1/#When:16:42:27Z NEW ORLEANS, LA- Ochsner Health System, in conjunction with the CDC, has new advice for healthy individuals who have flu-like symptoms - stay home and rest. Don't plan to visit the doctor's office unless your symptoms worsen, as you will be exposing even more people to the virus. However, physicians caution, if you are considered "high risk", you should call your physician immediately for advice on what to do. "We know that H1N1 is going to continue to spread throughout the community; therefore, our goal is to appropriately care for individuals, while reducing ER overcrowding and additional spread of the illness. We would like to provide education on when to seek medical care and when to remain at home," explains Dr. Katherine Baumgarten, Ochsner Medical Director of Infection Control. Ochsner is encouraging local residents to follow the recommended CDC advice:• Healthy individuals are asked not to visit the doctor with onset of symptoms; instead remain at home, away from other individuals, in order to recover and reduce the spread of H1N1. • Individuals who are asked to call their physicians, with onset of symptoms, include the following high-risk populations:- Immuno-compromised (example: cancer, transplant, diabetes, HIV, those with underlying lung disease)- Pregnant women- Parents of young children (less than 5 years)- Older population (greater than 65 years) Dr. Baumgarten explains, "If you have flu-like symptoms and are otherwise healthy and not a high-risk category, Ochsner physicians recommend plenty of fluids, Tylenol, and plenty of rest." She advises that Tamiflu will only be administered to high-risk populations and explains, "Most individuals are able to weather the illness as they do the seasonal flu." As with any illness, it can occasionally worsen in otherwise healthy adults. Those individuals are advised to seek care without delay if they begin experiencing the following symptoms:• Shortness of breath• Chest pain• Confusion• Intractable nausea and vomiting• Return of high fever after original fever has gone away If residents will follow this advice, potential over-crowding in local ER's and the spread of the virus can be reduced. One of the problems physicians are trying to avoid is non-infected patients getting the H1N1 virus from others in patient waiting areas. Warning signs for children to seek immediate emergency medical care include:• Fast breathing or trouble breathing• Bluish or gray skin color• Not drinking enough fluids• Not urinating as usual• Severe or persistent vomiting• Not waking up or interacting as usual• Being so irritable that your child does not even want to be held• Fever returns after being absent or a significant change in fever pattern (101 degrees for several days then 103 degrees) "The H1N1 virus is comparable to the seasonal flu in its effects on the population; every year millions of Americans catch the flu and recover, and every year we suffer some deaths. H1N1 can be dangerous to some individuals but for the majority of the population it's simply an uncomfortable experience," adds Baumgarten. All individuals are encouraged to get the seasonal flu shot, which will be available in mid to late September. An H1N1 vaccine is not expected to be available until late fall and will then only be distributed to high-risk populations as directed by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). For additional H1N1 information, please visit http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/ or http://www.ochsner.org. ###     General News, Press Release, Display on Homepage 2009-08-28T16:42:27-06:00 http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/ochsner_replaces_heart_valve_without_open_heart_surgery/ http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/ochsner_replaces_heart_valve_without_open_heart_surgery/#When:17:30:15Z NEW ORLEANS, LA - On Tuesday, August 11, 2009, an 82-year old New Orleans resident with severe aortic stenosis successfully had a heart valve replaced at Ochsner Medical Center using the same technique as angioplasty, a far cry from the traditional open heart procedure. Patients who are considered high-risk or non-operable for conventional open heart valve surgery now have a potential new research option available regionally only through The John Ochsner Heart & Vascular Institute. Ochsner Medical Center is the only hospital in the Gulf South selected to participate as an FDA investigative site in the PARTNER (Placement of AoRTic traNscathetER valves) clinical trial, evaluating the Edwards SAPIEN transcatheter aortic heart valve in patients who are at high risk for open heart surgery and surgical valve repair. Annually, some 200,000 people in the U.S. need a new heart valve. "This dramatic new procedure offers a new lease on life for patients with severe aortic stenosis, severe narrowing of the heart valve, and highlights Ochsner's continuing efforts to place patient care first by offering a minimally invasive alternative to open heart surgery which may reduce morbidity and recovery time," explains Dr. Stephen Ramee, Ochsner Cardiologist, and clinical investigator. The purpose of the PARTNER study is to determine the safety and effectiveness of the Edwards SAPIEN Transcatheter Heart Valve device and delivery systems (leg: transfemoral and chest: transapical). Amazingly, the percutaneous arm of this study makes no cuts in the chest at all. A catheter carrying a tissue valve built into a metal stent a half an inch in diameter is threaded up the artery from the leg to the aortic valve, where it positions the new valve within the damaged one. This procedure is performed in a state-of-the-art cath lab on a "beating heart," without the need for bypass machine, which can pose additional risks. As with any research trial, no guarantees can be made about outcomes. Study benefits and risks along with alternatives are reviewed in detail before a person enrolls. Ochsner was chosen for the trial due to its expertise in valve replacement surgery and vast experience in interventional procedures. "This is an interdisciplinary study in which Ochsner's Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiothoracic Surgery, and Anesthesia departments are working collaboratively, using the best techniques from all three specialties, to advance the standard of care for our patients," explains Dr. Gene Parrino, co-investigator in the trial. A prospective randomized study, PARTNER has two separate treatment arms. The surgical arm features 690 high-risk patients who are candidates for conventional open-heart surgery. Randomized, these patients will receive either the Edwards SAPIEN transcatheter heart valve or an Edwards surgical valve to demonstrate that the transcatheter heart valve is not statistically inferior to conventional surgery. The non-surgical arm will feature 350 non-operative patients who will be evenly randomized to receive either the Edwards SAPIEN transcatheter heart valve or appropriate medical therapy in order to demonstrate that the transcatheter heart valve is statistically superior to medical management. ### General News, Press Release, Display on Homepage 2009-08-27T17:30:15-06:00 http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/double_transplant_recipient_offers_hope_to_patients_on_waiting_lists/ http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/double_transplant_recipient_offers_hope_to_patients_on_waiting_lists/#When:14:38:36Z NEW ORLEANS - Although over 110,000 Americans are on an organ transplant waiting list, a second chance at life is only one phone call away and, for a Slidell resident, that life-saving call came sooner than he expected. Since his double transplant at Ochsner Medical Center on March 28, 2008, Nic Whitacre has decided that there is a reason he's still alive - and he's not going to let the history of his health stand in the way of his future. "When I was lying in the recovery room after my transplant, I thought to myself, what can I do if I'm given the opportunity to live?" said Whitacre. "Then and there, I just knew that becoming a nurse would be my way to give back to patients just like me. I hope my experience will allow me to bring a new level of empathy to my patients," he adds. Following his pancreas and kidney transplant, Whitacre, 47, enrolled in Delgado Community College to prepare for nursing school, and he will begin the Charity Nursing Program in January 2010. Following 18 months of nursing school, Whitacre will finally reach his goal of becoming a registered nurse. "My goal is to work in a transplant step-down unit and eventually on a surgery team. My health has been fully restored and this is the least I can do," said Whitacre. But, becoming a nurse isn't his only goal. In August of 2010, Whitacre will run in his young donor's honor in the 2010 Transplant Olympics in Madison, Wisconsin. Before Whitacre's transplant, he was diagnosed at a very young age with diabetes. Vision loss, gastroparesis, nerve damage and kidney failure are just a few of the complications he experienced - all of which hindered his physical fitness. After 33 years, Whitacre is no longer a diabetic and his kidneys are functioning normally. And, his new health, along with months of training, will take him across the 5K finish line next August. "I'm going to compete and in order to beat the previous record, I'll have to run about a six minute mile," said Whitacre. "I'm trying to encourage others to get active by updating others on my training progress via Twitter." Twitter, a newly developing online social network, is also a way for Whitacre to get the word out about becoming a registered organ donor. "Most people don't realize that you can take 10 seconds to change your license status online to become an organ donor - take the time, you may be able to save a life," he adds. To register to become an organ donor, visit http://www.donatelife.net General News, Press Release, Display on Homepage 2009-08-25T14:38:36-06:00 http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/ochsner_and_rouses_markets_partner_for_choose_healthy_initiative/ http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/ochsner_and_rouses_markets_partner_for_choose_healthy_initiative/#When:14:03:44Z NEW ORLEANS (August 21, 2009) - Today, August 21, 2009, at 1:30pm at the Rouses Market, 4500 Tchoupitoulas Street, Ochsner Health System and Rouses Markets, the largest independent grocer in Louisiana, will announce the Louisiana community initiative partnership, "Choose Healthy, http://www.choose-healthy.org." This program is designed to educate people about the benefits of smart food and lifestyle choices, disease prevention and regular medical checkups. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Louisiana is the 8th most obese state in the U.S., with nearly 30% of all residents considered medically obese. "People traditionally only get wellness information at the doctor's office, clinic or hospital," said Dr. Patrick Quinlan, CEO of Ochsner Health System, "but a grocery store is a natural setting for people to talk about nutrition and meal planning. Rouses has given us a great opportunity to reach people before they make their food choices." Rouses customers will find healthy, Ochsner-endorsed eating recommendations on every aisle of their market, and be able to take advantage of Ochsner education programs and materials and free health screenings, including blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose and body fat. Rouses Chef Nino will be incorporating lighter and heart healthy recipes into his cooking demonstrations. Customers will also be able to access recipes and information on smart food choices, proper meal planning and disease-specific diet alternatives online at http://www.rouses.com and http://www.ochsner.org through the "Choose Healthy" link. "We have always considered Rouses as more than just a place to buy groceries," said Donald Rouse, President of Rouses Markets. "I think this will go far in educating and motivating our customers to lead healthier lifestyles. Having Ochsner-endorsed meal plans and recipes, and food recommendations clearly marked, makes it easier for people to make a healthier choice." The partnership will also benefit Rouses' 4,800 team members. "Ochsner will be providing free, in-store education and health screenings for our team members," said Rouse. "If we educate our employees, they, in turn, will educate our customers." The way Rouse and Quinlan see it, "Choose Healthy" should also be a boost to the local economy. Rouses has long promoted buying local, and Quinlan thinks that's an important component of the obesity solution. "Part of Louisiana's answer to the obesity crisis is encouraging people to eat fresh, local vegetables and seafood. Educating residents on a healthy diet, and encouraging them to take advantage of our natural resources, can shrink our community's waistline and grow our local economy," said Dr. Quinlan. Ochsner Health System (http://www.ochsner.org) is a non-profit, academic, multi-specialty, healthcare delivery system dedicated to patient care, research and education. The system includes seven hospitals and over 35 health centers located throughout Southeast Louisiana. Ochsner employs more than 750 physicians in 90 medical specialties and subspecialties and conducts over 300 clinical research trials annually. Ochsner has been listed as one of the "Best Places to Work" by New Orleans CityBusiness. In 2009, Ochsner was ranked as "Best" Hospital by U.S. News and World Report in Heart care, Urology and ENT services. Ochsner has 11,000 employees system-wide. Founded in 1960 by the late Anthony J. Rouse Sr. with a single store in Houma, Louisiana, and only four employees, today Rouses (http://www.rouses.com) employs 4,800 people and has locations in two states. In 2007, Rouses Markets doubled in size by acquiring A&P's Southern Division. In addition to four Mississippi Gulf Coast stores, Rouses Markets has 31 locations in Louisiana, making it the largest independent grocer in the state. In 2008, only one year after opening its first store in New Orleans, Rouses was voted "Best Supermarket in New Orleans" by Gambit Weekly. It was also voted one of the "Best Places to Work" by Louisiana Life Magazine.### General News, Press Release, Display on Homepage 2009-08-21T14:03:44-06:00 http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/tips_to_fight_back_to_school_h1n1_virus_exposure/ http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/tips_to_fight_back_to_school_h1n1_virus_exposure/#When:13:11:47Z NEW ORLEANS - Now that school is back in session and flu season is nearly upon us, many parents and healthcare providers are concerned over the spread of the H1N1 virus. Until a vaccine is ready, Ochsner physicians offer simple but highly effective tips to reduce the spread of infection and keep children healthy and in the classroom. "The best protection parents and teachers can give children against H1N1 is encouraging thorough hand washing and the use of hand sanitizer. Parents should also keep a sharp eye out for signs and symptoms, and if your child has a fever with H1N1 symptoms, absolutely keep them home from school and away from other children," recommends Dr. Russell Steele, Ochsner Pediatric Infectious Disease Specialist. A child's fever must be gone for at least 24 hours, without using medication, before the child returns to school. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) encourages educating children on the following activities: • Wash hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds (long enough for children to sing the "Happy Birthday" song twice). Set a good example by doing this yourself.• Wash hands or use hand sanitizer before eating anything.• Cough and sneeze into a tissue, NOT in your hand. Children often forget to wash their hands after covering their mouth. "In addition to the CDC's tips, encourage healthy behaviors like healthy eating habits, early bedtimes, and outside play; these will help your child's immune system stay strong and keep them focused on school work and daily activities instead of H1N1 fears," adds Steele. According to the CDC, the seasonal flu vaccine is unlikely to provide protection against novel H1N1 influenza. A novel H1N1 vaccine is currently in production and may be ready for the public in the fall, but it's not intended to replace the seasonal flu vaccine - only to be used along-side the seasonal flu vaccine. All children, 6 months to 18 years, are encouraged to get annual flu vaccines. "When the H1N1 vaccine is released in the fall, Ochsner physicians recommend that pregnant women, young children, healthcare employees, and other vulnerable age groups be the first to receive the vaccine," said Dr. Katherine Baumgarten, Ochsner Infectious Disease Specialist. "We're already getting calls about the novel H1N1 vaccine and will keep the community updated when the vaccines are available," she adds.   General News, Press Release, Display on Homepage 2009-08-14T13:11:47-06:00 http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/senior_day_at_ochsner_kenner/ http://www.ochsner.org/news/story/senior_day_at_ochsner_kenner/#When:13:19:00Z KENNER, LA - Ochsner Medical Center - Kenner is committed to serving patients of all ages in the community, especially the local senior community. In keeping with this commitment, OMC- Kenner is hosting a free "Senior Day" event for local seniors and their families on Friday, August 21, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This event is open to the community, and will feature: • Fun activities like dancing and a cooking demo• Educational classes on topics including computers, insurance, and rehabilitation• Health screenings• Vendors• Door prizes• Lunch and much more OMC-Kenner consistently caters to local seniors by offering events and relevant speakers, such as a recent visit to the Kenner Council of Aging Center, where Ochsner's Nurse Manager of the Diabetes Management Program spoke to seniors about diabetes, checking blood sugar levels, and hypoglycemia. The Senior Day event is free and all are welcome, but spots are limited. To register, call 1-866-OCHSNER (1-866-624-7637) between 8:00am and 5:00pm Monday through Friday. General News, Press Release, Display on Homepage 2009-08-13T13:19:00-06:00