Rumford Hospital

Rumford Hospital Nurse Anesthetist Recognized

Rumford Hospital Auxiliary Yard Sale - May 18

Maine Legislature honors Dr. Dieter Kreckel

Go Red for Women at Rumford Hospital

Rumford Hospital Bids Farewell to Jane Aube

Rumford Hospital has a new TV Patient Channel

Blood Drive February 13

Grief Support Group

Rumford Hospital Celebrates New Years Baby 2013

Rumford Hospital Development Committee Winds Down 2012 Annual Appeal

Rumford Hospital Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab Hosts Holiday Party

Rumford Hospital Caring Stitchers Gifted

Three from Rumford Hospital Therapy Services become GEMS

Rumford Hospital Annual Appeal thanks Puiia Lumber

CMMC and Rumford Hospital Named Top Hospitals in National Survey

Grief Support Group Beginning December 12

Rumford Hospital GEMS 2012 celebrated

100th Comfort Cover donated for Rumford Hospital patients

Rumford Hospital Auxiliary's annual Pre-holiday Jewelry Sale, December 3rd and 4th

Rumford Hospital Auxiliary donates $5,000

Rumford Hospital is recipient of award from the Maine Center for Disease Control.

Rumford Hospital Honors Long-time Employees

Dieter Kreckel, MD, Elected President of the Maine Medical Association

Rumford Hospital Achieves Pathway to Excellence

Rumford Hospital Environmental Services scores 100%

Red Cross Blood Drive - October 10

Living beyond breast cancer with Dr. Nicholette Erickson

What has 25 tables chock full of crafts and food and books? Find out on October 20!

New Parkinson's Support Group forming

Blood Drive - October 10

Lobster Rolls galore!

Rumford Hospital's Women's Health Day - October 27 - offers something special

Rumford Area Rotary plans Oktoberfest on October 20th

Dempsey September Program

Urge Dad to go to Prostate Screening

Heart Walk at Hosmer Field on September 16

Peg Blouin Nursing Scholarship applications being accepted

Emotions through your chakra system, a Dempsey Center presentation for August

Free Prostate Screening at Rumford Hospital

New physician bikes to Maine at the start of his CMMC Family Medicine Residency

Full Physical Exams for School Students

Advance Directives Workshops at Rumford Hospital

Rumford Hospital and Swift River Family Medicine welcome New Resident

Rumford Hospital HEROES 2012 Named

Eagles Auxiliary donates to Rumford Community Home

Rumford Hospital and Swift River Family Medicine Welcome New Resident

Rumford Hospital and Swift River Family Medicine Bid Farewell to Residents

Protecting The Skin You're In

Rumford Hospital Celebrates CNA Week

Hand Crafted Quilts for Rumford Community Home Veterans

Roxbury ATV Club Donates to Rumford Community Home

Significant shortfall of blood throughout New England!

Jewelry Making with Hemp and Beads at Rumford Hospital

Red Cross Blood Drive - June 13th

River Valley Rotary Lobster Lunch - June 11th

Rumford Hospital Annual Appeal Off and Running

Yard Sale benefits the Rumford Hospital Auxiliary

Rumford Hospital's Lariviere Oncology Suite hosts Pamper Yourself Day

Rumford Hospital Honors Volunteers

April is Donate Life Month - and it's easy

Rumford Hospital Again Earns ACR Accreditation

What's in Your Cleaning Closet?

Rumford Hospital Auxiliary Jewelry Sale May 7 and 8

Rumford Hospital Cardiac Rehab Celebrates

It's a matter of balance at Rumford Hospital

Dr. Petrona Manasseh chooses the Rumford Hospital Birthing Center

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month -- Colorectal Cancer Screening Saves Lives

Dr. Daoud Delivers His 50th Rumford Hospital Baby

Rumford Hospital's Heart to Heart Conference Postponed until March 10

March Dempsey Center Workshop at Rumford Hospital

Rumford Hospital sponsors Black Mountain of Maine Races and Trainings

Rumford Hospital Wound Clinic has New Physician

Advanced Directives (Living Will) Workshops at Rumford Hospital

Blood Donations are Critical Now

Go Red for Women Day at Rumford Hospital

Red Cross Blood Drive at American Legion Feb 15

Rumford Hospital Laboratory again Accredited by College of American Pathologists

Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing presents at Rumford Hospital

Special Program for the New Year January 26

New Diabetes Support Group at Rumford Hospital

Rumford Hospital GEMS 2011 Celebrated

Rumford Hospital Thanks Donors and Volunteers!

Peg Blouin Scholarship awarded

A Gift of Yarn to Rumford Hospital's Caring Stitchers

Poinsettias from the Rumford Hospital Auxiliary

Purple Caps for Babies at Rumford Hospital

Dr. Larry Hopperstead joins practice at Rumford Hospital -- Area hospital is pleased to add a distinguished surgeon to their staff

Lariviere Family Supports RH Oncology

2009-2010 Annual Appeal Kicks Off

Comfort Covers warm Rumford Hospital patients

Rumford Hospital's ED now equipped with ultrasound

Rumford Hospital honors employees

RH's Medical Imaging is all digital!

Rumford Hospital Nurse Anesthetist Recognized

Frank Hodson Jr., a certified registered nurse anesthetist, has been recognized at Rumford Hospital as a DAISY Award recipient.

The DAISY Award is sponsored by the DAISY Foundation and recognizes nurses who consistently demonstrate in their work the following attributes: compassion; critical thinking skills; passion about life; patient- and family-focused care; patient advocacy; support of all healthcare team members; and nursing profession role model.

The award was established in 1999 by the family of J. Patrick Barnes, who died at 33 from complications of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. DAISY is an acronym for “diseases attacking the immune system”. The foundation is headquartered in Glen Ellen, Calif.

The DAISY Award was created to show gratitude to the nursing profession, because the Barnes family believed that nurses are truly “unsung heroes”. The DAISY Foundation says the program “honors the super human work nurses do at the bedside each and every day.” The foundation also funds research for the J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects.”

Patients, visitors, physicians, and co-workers can nominate nurses who they feel deserve to be recognized with the DAISY Award.

“Rarely do you walk the halls at Rumford Hospital in the morning without hearing the friendly whistling and hellos that come from this nominee. No matter what kind of day it is or what the situation might be, Frank is always upbeat and empathetic not only to patients but to staff as well,” said Becky Hall, director of nursing and acute care services at Rumford Hospital.

“The stories that we have of this nominee exemplifies every aspect of a DAISY: compassion, patient and family-focused care, patient advocacy, support of all members of the healthcare team, a role model for the nursing profession, critical thinking skills, and passionate about life. This also demonstrates the type of person and professional that this nurse is,” said Hall.

“Eleven years and a few short months ago, my wife was here at Rumford Hospital in labor. She could not deliver naturally, so we headed down for a cesarean section. Shortly after the birth, Frank announced he ‘needed some help at the head.’ Everything that happened after that is a bit of blur, but she had a serious complication. Were it not for Frank and his expertise that night, the outcome could have been much worse. I thanked my lucky stars that my wife was still with us. I would only later learn that most of the people who suffer that complication do not survive. Colleen spent five days here at RH, and Frank visited her every day. After all was said and done, Colleen and Jared were both healthy, and we will never forget Frank and the OR crew for that night. I started working here over five years ago, and one of the first things Frank said to me was ‘How’s your wife?’ and ‘How’s your son?’ Frank Hodson, you are our hero!” said Dan Bernard, information technology field engineer at RH.

“It is not about one particular story with Frank; it is about everything he does every day. Frank is empathetic to all. You just can't catch Frank in a grumpy mood day or night,” added August Weston, a registered nurse at RH.

05/10/2013

Rumford Hospital Auxiliary Yard Sale - May 18

While Auxilian Effie Waite tries out the child's rocker, other members of the Rumford Hospital Auxiliary, standing, left to right, Barbara Belanger, Jean Tyler and Charlene Dickson show off other items that were offered at their annual Yard Sale in 2010.

From 8am until 2pm on Saturday, May 18, at 209 Lincoln Ave. the Rumford Hospital Auxiliary will offer a wide range of goods to satisfy every taste. But right now Auxilians are seeking donations from members of the community. Whether it's a single item, a room full or house full, the Auxiliary will gladly accept it. The Auxiliary accepts everything except major appliances and clothing.

Members of the Auxiliary will be at 209 Lincoln Ave. on Friday mornings during May to accept donations from the public for the yard sale. Pick up for donations to the sale can be arranged by calling Auxiliary President Barbara Belanger at 364-3648 or Auxiliary Secretary Jane Bubar at 562-4343.

All proceeds from the Auxiliary Yard Sale are donated to Rumford Hospital, where they help to purchase state-of-the-art medical equipment and other patient related items.

03/14/2013

Maine Legislature honors Dr. Dieter Kreckel

Dr. Dieter Kreckel of Swift River Family Medicine

As President of the Maine Medical Association, Dr. Dieter Kreckel was honored by the Maine Legislature as Doctor of the Day on the opening day of the legislative session January 8, 2013. Kreckel has been at Rumford Hospital and Swift River Family Medicine for 20 years.

"We at Rumford Hospital and Swift River Family Medicine are very fortunate to have such a dedicated and community-minded physician as a member of our staff," notes Becky Hall, manager of the Rumford Hospital provider practices. "Dr. Kreckel sets a perfect example of service to his community, both as a physician and as a River Valley citizen."

02/07/2013

Go Red for Women at Rumford Hospital

Many Rumford Hospital staff members gathered to have their photo taken on Go Red for Women Day.

The first Friday in February is Go Red for Women Day around the US. It's a day aimed at increasing awareness of women and heart disease. Many people think of heart disease as a man's disease, but in reality heart disease kills more women than any other cause, more than cancer, more than accidents, more than respiratory disease.

Again this year the staff of Rumford Hospital wore red on Friday, February 1, and the volunteer Lobby Host passed out red dress pins to everyone who came through the door. At noon staff members gathered to have their photo taken in all their red splendor.

02/07/2013

Rumford Hospital Bids Farewell to Jane Aube

Jane Aube, RN, MSN, who has been Director of Nursing at Rumford Hospital since 1987 will retire at the end of January. In her position she has overseen all nursing functions at the hospital as well as case management and risk management. She was instrumental in organizing Rumford Hospital's Specialty Clinics and the Swing Bed program.

"The entire organization is better for the commitment, dedication and professionalism Jane brought to Rumford Hospital," notes R. David Frum, the hospital president. "She will leave a lasting legacy on all of us."

Aube earned her nursing diploma at Peter Bent Brigham Hospital School of Nursing, her BA in psychology at Emmanuel College in Boston, her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Southeastern Massachusetts University and her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Southern Maine. She has been a long time member of the Organization of Maine Nurse Executives.

Before coming to Rumford Hospital she worked for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as a placement specialist in the Department of Public Welfare. She had also worked as a nursing supervisor in community health and at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston as a nurse manager and a staff nurse.

Recently, Aube led the Rumford Hospital nursing team to obtain the Pathway to Excellence nursing accreditation. The hospital has also been recognized with a top hospital Leapfrog award, due in large part to Aube's work with staff.

Aube lives in Monmouth with her husband Michael. The couple enjoys skiing and being out on the lake and will find more time for those pursuits now that both are retired.

01/28/2013

Rumford Hospital has a new TV Patient Channel

Staff members who helped set up the Patient Channel watch a program on the Newborn Channel, ICU Nurse Janice Durland, Birthing Center Nurse Amanda Dalton, Inpatient Clinical Coordinator Dale Gaudreau & Tracey Milledge, Environmental Services Coordinator.

Patient Channel provides education on topics from congestive heart failure to irregular heart beat, from diabetes to living wills, from smoking cessation to managing cholesterol. Patients and their families at Rumford Hospital can watch these educational programs as many times as they want until they have absorbed all the information. "I'm very excited about the education the Patient Channel provides," says Inpatient Nurse Manager Joette Carlton. "It reinforces the education that nurses provide."

There is also a Newborn Channel that runs the gamut from breast feeding to baby's oral health, from newborn care to coping with post partum depression.

Each patient folder contains a program guide as well as the information that is usually in the packet. A new packet is placed on each over-the-bed table when a room is cleaned in anticipation of a new admission. With a special password, patients can continue to watch the channel at home on personal computing devices.

With TVs in every patient room the two new education channels are easy to access in addition to the regular programming. Nurses help patients to find the channels and the programs they want to watch. "Patients love it," adds Carlton.

01/28/2013

Blood Drive February 13

Linda MacGregor will again take charge of the canteen at the Red Cross Blood Drive on February 13.

The Red Cross says the Northeast is experiencing a shortage of all blood types with a critical need for type O negative and O positive blood. On Wednesday, February 13, the greater Rumford community can do its part to remedy the situation. That's the day that Rumford Hospital and River Valley Rotary will jointly sponsor another blood drive at the Rumford American Legion. The drive will run from 12noon until 6pm.

The Rumford blood drives have always been among the best in Maine, and we should surge forward again - especially in this time of critical need.

All presenting donors in February will receive a "buy one get one free" ticket to a participating ski area. In the case of Rumford area donors the ski area will be Black Mountain.

To make an appointment call the Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767 or Rumford Hospital at 369-1000.

01/28/2013

Grief Support Group

Swift River Family Medicine offers a grief support group for adults 18 and older who are suffering from the loss of a family member, friend or relative. The group meets in the lobby of Swift River located at 430 Franklin Street, Rumford, from 6 to 7pm Wednesday nights.

01/18/2013

Rumford Hospital Celebrates New Years Baby 2013

Spencer Voter, the Rumford Hospital New Years Baby, is held by his proud mother, Jessica Voter, sitting beside the baby's father, Scott Voter. In front of the three is a basket, overflowing with clothes, toys and other baby necessities.

Jessica and Scott Voter of Mexico welcomed their third child and third son at 8:38am on January 2, 2013. Spencer Voter thus became the Rumford Hospital New Years Baby. "We hoped; but, seeing all the babies born here in December, we were a little worried if we'd make it," Jessica admits. On top of that, she began having contractions the day before New Years Eve. Spencer weighed in at 6 pounds 11 ounces and was 19 inches long.

Spencer is truly a Rumford Hospital baby. His siblings, Blaine, 7, and Kaleb, 2, were also born at the hospital. Jessica's mother Paula Voter is the manager of the Dietary Department. Paula's mother, Yvonne Campbell, was a registered nurse at the hospital for 45 years. Campbell's mother was in charge of the bakery at Rumford Hospital. Indeed, the family boasts more than 70 years of service to the hospital. "I grew up in this hospital," claims Jessica.

In addition to Paula Voter, the children's grandparents include Scott's parents, Colin and Kathy Voter of Peru and Paula's husband, Charlie, also of Mexico.

01/08/2013

Rumford Hospital Development Committee Winds Down 2012 Annual Appeal

Members of the Rumford Hospital Development Committee are planning for the end of the appeal year, seated, Lolisa Windover and Barbara Belanger, standing,

The Rumford Hospital Development Committee wants to remind friends of the hospital that the 2012 Annual Appeal ends on December 31, 2012, less than two weeks away. "About 60 donors - both individuals and businesses - who gave to the 2010 - 2011 Annual Appeal have not yet given this year," notes Barbara Belanger, Development Committee Chair. "Of course, we do have brand new donors to help the appeal along."

Annual Appeal funds are uses to purchase equipment and furnishings that might not ordinary be in the budget, but are non-the-less needed. Last year's appeal enabled the Medical/Surgical Unit to buy ceiling lifts that make transferring from bed to chair easier and safer for both patients and staff. New stretchers in the Emergency Department and Specialty Clinics make patients more comfortable. An EKG machine is now housed right in the busy Specialty Clinics.

Individuals and businesses that would like to make a tax-deductible donation - any amount is appreciated - can send checks to Rumford Hospital, Attn. Community Relations, 420 Franklin St., Rumford, ME 04276. Anyone who needs to check if they have given can call Community Relations at 369-1143.

12/19/2012

Rumford Hospital Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab Hosts Holiday Party

The nurses of Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab welcomed current and former patients to an afternoon of heart-healthy food and animated conversation recently. Dick Stearns, center, entertained the crowd with a humorous story. Donna Lowe sits to his right and Cardiac Rehab Nurse Dan Elliott is on the right.

12/14/2012

Rumford Hospital Caring Stitchers Gifted

Rumford Paper Company employees donated money this holiday season to purchase gifts that the receivers could use to "pay forward." The Rumford Hospital Caring Stitchers were chosen and received 80 skeins of yarn with which to craft their Comfort Covers. Comfort Covers are lap robes that are given to every inpatient at the hospital.

The holiday effort has been dubbed "12 Days of Giving." Other recipients of the Paper Company employees' largess were elderly people who had their oil tanks filled, soldiers overseas who received Maine-made wreaths, and a homeless family who were placed in a home. Employees also helped set up and served at the Rumford Community Home, even bringing Santa with them. They plan to go to local stores and pick shoppers at random and purchase the items in their carts. They will target people buying coats, mittens and hats. The Paper Company employees also donated 86 turkeys to food pantries in the area. All together employees have raised and distributed over $10,000 this year.

12/14/2012

Three from Rumford Hospital Therapy Services become GEMS

Therapy Services staff members who have achieved GEMS status are, left to right, Jamee Therault, Rhonda Norton and Cynthia Dawson.

GEMS, a program which recognizes clinical staff and clinical support staff for excellence in five areas: clinical excellence, customer service, education and research, leadership, and community service recently announced the 2012 awardees. For the first time staff from the Rumford Hospital Therapy Services Department applied for and were awarded GEMS status.

GEMS stands for Growth, Enthusiasm, Motivation and Spirit. The GEMS program recognizes staff at three levels, or steps of achievement - Sapphire, Ruby and Diamond. In order to keep standards high, staff members are awarded GEMS status for two years, after which they must re-apply for their current level or a higher level. The three levels - sapphire, ruby and diamond - carry increasingly tougher criteria.

In the past the awardees have primarily been from the nursing ranks, although other departments have been eligible. Cynthia Dawson, Speech Pathologist with Therapy Services, has achieved the Diamond status. She lives in Roxbury. Rhonda Norton, Physical Therapist, has achieved Diamond status. She resides in Turner. Jamee Therault, a Mexico resident, has achieved Sapphire GEMS. She is a physical therapy assistant in the Therapy Department. "I'm am so glad to be able to recognize outstanding employees from departments other than nursing," said Jane Aube, Director of Nursing, who is a member of the committee that selects employees for GEMS status.

12/13/2012

Rumford Hospital Annual Appeal thanks Puiia Lumber

Barbara Belanger, President of the Rumford Hospital Auxiliary and Chair of the hospital's Development Committee, stopped by Puiia Lumber recently to thank owner Tom Puiia for his company's generous gift to the 2012 Annual Appeal. "It's so rewarding to have the Puiia name in our list of donors," Belanger noted. Nicholas Puiia, Tom's father, whose portrait Belanger and Tom Puiia stood beneath for a photograph was a long-time board member at Rumford Hospital, and the family has always been very supportive.

The 2012 Annual Appeal is winding down to close on December 31. "I encourage other businesses to follow Tom's example and give before the end of the appeal year," Belanger said. "The hospital counts on both local businesses and the contractors who provide goods and services to the hospital for a significant portion of the funds raised every year."

Businesses and individuals who didn't receive an appeal letter and remittance envelope or who have misplaced theirs can call Rumford Hospital Community Relations at 369-1143.

12/13/2012

CMMC and Rumford Hospital Named Top Hospitals in National Survey

Two Central Maine Healthcare hospitals were named Top Hospitals in a national survey released Tuesday.

The Leapfrog Group has recognized Central Maine Medical Center as one of an elite group of Top Hospitals and Rumford Hospital as one of only 13 Top Rural Hospitals in the United States. This recognition follows a nationwide survey of some 1,200 hospitals.

Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) and Rumford Hospital are members of Central Maine Healthcare (CMH).

"CMMC is the only large Maine hospital to earn Top Hospital standing," said CMMC President Laird Covey. "We are particularly pleased with our achievement as a Top Hospital because it validates years of effort to maximize patient safety. As the least expensive tertiary care hospital in Maine, independent confirmation of the premium we place on safety indicates that we offer a particularly good value: high quality care at a comparatively low cost."

In a press release last week, the Leapfrog Group gave CMMC an A in its new ratings of hospital safety efforts, which is one of the minimum requirements for being considered for the Top Hospital award. Covey also pointed out that CMMC was recognized by Consumer Reports magazine as the Safest Hospital in Maine.

Rumford Hospital's status as a Top Hospital also follows national recognition for the high quality of services it provides.

"This recognition from The Leapfrog Group distinguishes Rumford Hospital as one of a handful of Top Rural Hospitals in the country, and follows the Pathway to Excellence recognition that we earned earlier this year," said Rumford Hospital President and CEO David Frum. "These honors, as well as Rumford Hospital's status as the lowest cost hospital in Maine, result from the combined efforts of physicians, nurses and support staff, who are working together to provide the best possible care for our patients."

The Leapfrog Hospital Survey assesses hospital performance based on national performance measures, including the National Quality Forum Safe Practices. These measures and practices cover a broad spectrum of hospital services and infrastructure, and help hospitals benchmark their progress in improving safety, quality, and efficiency of care delivery.

"The Leapfrog Top Hospital distinction is by far the most competitive award a hospital can receive. Leapfrog holds hospitals to the highest standards on behalf of our purchaser members and their employees. By achieving the Top Hospital accolade, Central Maine Medical Center and Rumford Hospital demonstrated exemplary performance across all areas of quality and patient safety that are analyzed on the Leapfrog Hospital Survey. They consistently provide safe, high quality care, and I would be comfortable sending my family to them for care," said Leah Binder, president and chief executive officer of The Leapfrog Group.

The release of the Leapfrogs Groups annual list of Top Hospitals came at the organization's annual meeting in Baltimore, which included a conference on the importance of transparency as the key to improved hospital safety.

The selection of Central Maine Medical Center and Rumford Hospital as Top Hospitals is based on the results of the Leapfrog Group's annual hospital survey, which measures hospitals' performance on patient safety and quality, focusing on three critical areas of hospital care: how patients fare, resource use, and management structures in place to prevent errors. The results of the survey are posted on a website (http://www.leapfroggroup.org/cp) open to patients and families, the public, employers, and other purchasers of healthcare.

12/04/2012

Grief Support Group Beginning December 12

Velma Evans, L.C.S.W.

Swift River Family Medicine will offer a grief support group for adults 18 and older who are suffering from the loss of a family member, friend or relative. The group will meet in the lobby of Swift River located at 430 Franklin Street, Rumford, from 6 to 7pm Wednesday nights, starting December 12. (If the schools have been closed due to poor weather, the group will not meet.)

Velma Evans, L.C.S.W., an employee of Tri County Mental Health who is contracted by Swift River, will facilitate the grief support group. The group will be composed of people with one thing in common - loss. It will address the painful, often disorienting aftermath of the death of a loved one. These weekly sessions will be an opportunity to learn valuable lessons that death and mourning that impact everyone. The group will also discuss the different stages of grief and the emotions that can surface during this difficult time.

Evans says she is really looking forward to the support group. "Having experienced my own grief and having had support in the past, I know this group will be an asset to many," she says.

The Grief Support Group will be free of charge and coffee and tea will be provided.

12/03/2012

Rumford Hospital GEMS 2012 celebrated

Rumford Hospital GEMS 2012, seated, left to right, Rhonda Norton, Dale Gaudreau and Betty Palmer; standing, Jamee Theriault, Sally Arsenault, Sylvia Goodman, Amanda Dalton and Cynthia Dawson.

Seven years ago the Central Maine Medical Family developed a program - GEMS - which recognizes clinical staff and clinical support staff for excellence in five areas: clinical excellence, customer service, education and research, leadership, and community service. The ultimate goal of the program is to demonstrate commitment to excellence in patient care throughout the system.

GEMS stands for Growth, Enthusiasm, Motivation and Spirit. The GEMS program recognizes staff at three levels, or steps of achievement - Sapphire, Ruby and Diamond. In order to keep standards high, staff members are awarded GEMS status for two years, after which they must re-apply for their current level or a higher level. The three levels - sapphire, ruby and diamond - carry increasingly tougher criteria.

Staff members apply to the GEMS program by meeting a required number of criteria and submitting proof of certifications, education and leadership, as well as their managers' signature on special GEMS forms. At each hospital - Bridgton Hospital, Central Maine Medical Center and Rumford Hospital - an interdisciplinary committee, comprised of both clinical and non-clinical staff people, reviews the applications, making certain the applicants have met all the criteria. Managers are not eligible for the GEMS program.

Kim Akers, RN, has been a Ruby level GEMS recipient since the program's inception in 2005. A resident of Rumford, Akers is the supervisor of the Day Surgery. Sally Arsenault, RN, is also renewing her GEMS status. Sally is a Diamond level GEMS who works in the OR. She lives in Hanover. Amanda Dalton, RN, has moved to Diamond status from the Ruby status she achieved in 2010. A Birthing Center nurse, she lives in Canton.

Cynthia Dawson, Speech Pathologist with Therapy Services, has achieved the Diamond status. She lives in Roxbury. Dale Gaudreau, RN, Clinical Coordinator for Med/Surg, has become a Diamond GEMS. The Bryant Pond resident had been a Ruby since 2008. Sylvia Goodman, RN, is an Intensive Care Unit nurse, She lives in Rumford and renewed her Diamond GEMS status this year. Fran Hannon, RN, an operating room (OR) nurse, renewed her Ruby status. She resides in Rumford. Vikky Milledge, RN, another OR nurse, achieved Diamond GEMS status. She lives in Rumford.

Rhonda Norton, Physical Therapist, has achieved Diamond status. She resides in Turner. Betty Palmer, RN, renewed her Diamond GEMS, an honor she has held since 2008. She resides in Dixfield. Melissa Pelletier, RN, an OR nurse, renewed her Sapphire status. She lives in Rumford. Jamee Therault, a Mexico resident, has achieved Sapphire GEMS. She is a physical therapy assistant in the Therapy Department.

GEMS not photographed are Kim Akers, Fran Hannon, Vikky Milledge and Melissa Pelletier.

12/03/2012

100th Comfort Cover donated for Rumford Hospital patients

Rejeanne Laverdure has created 100 Comfort Covers for Rumford Hospital patients.

Rejeanne Laverdure has made 100 comfort covers for Rumford Hospital patients. She joins a select group of other Caring Stitchers who have reached that plateau including Sue Bartash, Martha Hanington and Annette Ross. Every Rumford Hospital inpatient is given one of the lap robes, called Comfort Covers because they are meant to comfort patients.

Comfort Covers are the brainchild of hospital Accountant Charlene Cooper and Med/Surg Nurse Manager Joette Carlton, who are both fond of needlework. Comfort Covers - some crocheted, some knit, some fleece with fancy borders, some quilted - help patients feel not only warm but also cared for. Each cover carries a tag urging a patient to take the cover home with them, as well as the name of the stitcher.

Most Caring Stitchers supply their own materials but the group occasionally has yarn donated. Unfortunately, not all the donated yarn is usable. For more information about Comfort Covers or to donate yarn or lap robes, call Cooper at 369-1038.

11/20/2012

Rumford Hospital Auxiliary's annual Pre-holiday Jewelry Sale, December 3rd and 4th

The large conference room at Rumford Hospital is filled with tables and racks displaying the wide selection of jewelry and other accessories for the Auxiliary Jewelry Sale.

The Rumford Hospital Auxiliary annual pre-holiday jewelry sale will be held in Conference Room A on the ground floor on December 3rd and 4th. In addition to the usual rack after rack of jewelry, scarves, watches and belts under $10, this sale will include some finer jewelry items, suitable for gift giving to loved ones. The regular stock is all priced from $2 to $10. This finer jewelry will be slightly more expensive but also priced below suggested retail.

On December 3rd the Jewelry Sale opens in Conference Room A at the hospital at 8am and closes at 4pm. The hours are 7am to 3pm on December 4th. All proceeds of Auxiliary fund raising activities benefit the hospital. This past year the Auxiliary donated $5,000 to the hospital's Annual Appeal.

11/16/2012

Rumford Hospital Auxiliary donates $5,000

Rumford Hospital CEO David Frum accepts a 2012 Annual Appeal check for $5,000 from Auxiliary Treasurer Sonya Robinson, left rear. Also in on the gifting were Auxiliary members, seated, left to right, Julie Chaisson and Sylvia Arsenault; rear, third and fourth from left, Effie Waite and Barbara Belanger. The Auxiliary raises funds through its annual Holiday Poinsettia Sale (now in progress), twice-a-year Jewelry Sales (coming up on December 3rd and 4th) , a May Yard Sale and holiday food sales throughout the year.

11/16/2012

Rumford Hospital is recipient of award from the Maine Center for Disease Control.

Showing off the Maine CDC certificate are Anne Marie Mahar, Infection Control Nurse; Linda Jamison, Occupational Health Nurse; Gus Carlson, Pharmacist; Heidi Mallis of the Maine CDC; David Frum, Rumford Hospital CEO; and Jamie Paul of the Maine CDC.

Heidi Mallis and Jamie Paul of the Maine Center for Disease Control recently travelled to Rumford Hospital to present CEO David Frum with a framed certificate and a letter from Stephen Sears, MD, MPH, State Epidemiologist. The honor was bestowed because Rumford Hospital had the third highest percentage rate of influenza vaccinated employees in Maine for the 2011 - 2012 flu season.

Sears letter read, in part, "Health care personnel are the first line of defense in diagnosing, treating and preventing the spread of Influenza. Thank you very much for all you do to protect health care workers, patients and the community from influenza."

11/08/2012

Rumford Hospital Honors Long-time Employees

Some of the long-time employees honored are pictured with CEO David Frum, front, left to right, Diane Roy and Fran Hannon, rear, Andrea Flaherty, David Frum and Louise Arsenault.

Rumford Hospital recently honored 47 employees for 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, 10 and five years of service. Honorees and guests were welcomed by hospital president David Frum who recounted facts about the years when the honorees started work at Rumford Hospital. The facts about gas prices elicited many groans.

Diane Roy of Rumford was honored for 40 years of service. She recently retired but still works in Phlebotomy on a per diem basis. Susan Rioux, Respiratory Care, and Mary Stearns, ICU, were given kudos for 35 years. Both of them live in Rumford.

Andrea Flaherty was honored for 30 years of service in Medical Imaging. Fran Hannon, RN, who works in the OR achieved the 30-year mark. They both live in Rumford. Mexico resident Jennifer Libby, Respiratory Care, was also honored for 30 years of service.

Mexico resident Louise Arsenault achieved 25 years with Rumford Hospital. She is a physical therapy assistant. Another 25 year honoree was Melissa Gallant of Rumford. She is a Pharmacy tech. Becky Fontaine of Mexico was the sole 20 year honoree. She is a nurse with Rumford Surgical Associates.

Honored for 15 years of service were Wendy Lowe, Patient Care Services; Annette Ross, Environmental Services; Linda Jamison, Occupational Health Nurse; Heather Kellogg, OR nurse; Judy Conrad, Medical Imaging; Tammy Berry, Cardiac Rehab; Sandra Decourcy, Linen Services; Kathy Sutton, OB; Fran Ducas, Swift River; Robin Andrews, Food Service; and Charlene Cooper, Finance.

Crystal McKenna, Med/Surg; Christine Murphy, Surgical Services; Cathy Godwin, Patient Care Services; Lisa Sinclair, Swift River; Dr. Jacob Ledesma, River Valley Internal Medicine; Lisa Payne, Swift River; and Dale Gaudreau, Med/Surg were all honored for 10 years of service.

Receiving thanks for five years of service were Randall Orr, Plant Ops; Janet Richards, Med/Surg; Karen Swan, Swift River; Lizette Chiak, Pathology; Lynn Stoodley, ER; Randall Ellis, OR; Janice Durland, ICU; Stephany Jacques, Specialty Clinics; Hannah Davis, River Valley Internal Medicine; Jesse Heath, Material Services, Beth McInnis, Med/Surg; Sue Swasey, Med/Surg; Joy Thomas, Elsemore Dixfield Family Medicine; Connie Porter, Med/Surg; Mary Zurhorst, Pathology; Deborah Frino, Therapy Services; Andrea Swasey, Patient Care Services; Brenda Goguen, Food Service, Dan Bernard, IT; and Beth Bourassa, Medical Records.

10/17/2012

Dieter Kreckel, MD, Elected President of the Maine Medical Association

Dieter Kreckel, MD, newly elected president of the Maine Medical Association.

Dieter Kreckel, MD, of Swift River Family Medicine and Rumford Hospital was recently elected president of the Maine Medical Association, of which he has been a member since 1993. In addition to being a family physician, Kreckel has been the Director of the Rural Tract Residency Program in Rumford since its inception in 2005. He is the lead physician in the Patient Centered Medical Home pilot program and supervisor for physician assistants at Swift River.

A graduate of the Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia, Kreckel completed his residency at St. Joseph's Hospital in Syracuse, New York. He is certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians. He has been with Swift River Health Care and Rumford Hospital for nearly 20 years.

Retired from duty in the USAF Reserve at Hanscom AFB in MA in 2004, he served on active duty as a family physician in the AF from 1983 to 1993 at Loring AFB, Maine, Bitburg, Germany, and Andrews AFB, Maryland.

Kreckel is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians, a member of the board and past president of the Maine Academy of Family Physicians, a member of the board, and now president, of the Maine Medical Association.

For many years, Kreckel has volunteered as team physician for local school athletics and as event physician for the Chisholm Ski Club. He is currently chairman of the Town of Rumford Finance Committee and is a past member of the boards of the River Valley Chamber of Commerce, the River Valley Growth Council and the River Valley Healthy Communities Coalition.

Kreckel lives with his wife Jennifer, an attorney, in Rumford. The Kreckels are the parents of two grown children and have one grandchild. Kreckel is interested in photography, hiking, kayaking, wildlife biology, birding and travel.

"We at Rumford Hospital and Swift River Family Medicine are very fortunate to have such a dedicated and community-minded physician as a member of our staff," notes Becky Hall, manager of the Rumford Hospital provider practices. "Dr. Kreckel sets a perfect example of service to his community, both as a physician and as a River Valley citizen."

10/12/2012

Rumford Hospital Achieves Pathway to Excellence

PATHWAYS TO EXCELLENCE LEADERS – The Pathway to Excellence Committee includes from left, Robin Gilbert, Kim Akers, Jane Aube; Brenda Duguay, Janice Durland, Dale Gaudreau, Barbara MacGregor and Betty Palmer.

Rumford Hospital is the first Maine hospital to achieve Pathway to Excellence accreditation by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

The hospital is also the first Critical Access Hospital (CAH) in New England to earn this accreditation. (CAH status is designated by the Department of Health and Human Services. Among other requirements, a CAH must provide 24-hour emergency services in a rural area.)

The American Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) Pathway to Excellence designation signifies that the hospital supports an environment promoting outstanding nursing care. Only 90 hospitals nationwide have attained this accreditation.

The ANCC accreditation follows a detailed review of Rumford Hospital’s nursing program, focusing on nurse decision-making processes, work environment safety, patient care safety and responsiveness, training and ongoing education, clinical competence, accountability, evidence-based practice, and other ANCC standards.

Rumford Hospital Nursing Director Jane Aube said the importance of Pathway to Excellence accreditation “goes to the heart of patient care” because it analyzes the nursing environment in which patient care is delivered. Such a comprehensive review, she says, assures that “all the components are in place for excellent patient care,” including highly skilled care providers, ongoing quality improvement processes, and effectively teamwork between various care providers.

“Meeting Pathway to Excellence standards demonstrates that we vigorously promote team work between nurses, therapists, physicians, and pharmacists by collaborating on each patient's treatment and recovery. It means that patients and families are well informed about their course of treatment and care upon discharge,” Aube said.

“Pathway standards emphasize the importance of advanced education and clinical certifications in nursing, which increase the nurses' bedside skills. Safety is another Pathway standard that our nurses have met, meaning that they consistently ask ‘What can we do better in taking care of patients?’ For example, how do we continue to reduce patient falls, medication errors, and infection rates?” Aube added.

Rumford Hospital President David Frum said achieving Pathway to Excellence accreditation demonstrates “that Rumford Hospital supports an outstanding nursing staff that provides safe, effective care to patients, whether in the emergency department, the operating room, or any other service area. We are pleased to earn this designation and very proud of our nurses.”

Pathway to Excellence was established to promote excellence in nursing and health care globally through credentialing programs. The ANCC accreditation program recognizes the importance of high quality continuing nursing education and skills-based competency programs.

Rumford Hospital maintains a 24-hour emergency department and intensive care unit, serves the area’s primary care needs, and supports high-tech diagnostic services, including CT scanning, ultrasound and osteoporosis screening. The hospital offers medical-surgical nursing services, a birthing center, women's health services and ambulatory surgery. The hospital’s swing bed program provides care for patients who need skilled nursing services.

Rumford Hospital is a member of Central Maine Healthcare, which includes Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston and Bridgton Hospital.

For more information, call Robin Gilbert at 369-1245.

PATHWAYS TO EXCELLENCE LEADERS – The Pathway to Excellence Committee at Rumford Hospital provided leadership for the hospital’s successful effort to gain accreditation by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Serving on the committee were the following: from left, Robin Gilbert, emergency department and cardiac rehabilitation manager, Pathway to Excellence coordinator; Kim Akers, R.N., ambulatory surgery; Rumford Hospital Director of Nursing Jane Aube; Brenda Duguay, R.N., intensive care unit (ICU); Janice Durland, R.N., ICU; Dale Gaudreau, R.N., clinical coordinator, medical-surgical nursing; Barbara MacGregor, R.N., diabetes education and wound clinic; and Betty Palmer, R.N., emergency department and cardiac rehabilitation.

10/12/2012

Rumford Hospital Environmental Services scores 100%

Some members of the Environmental Service Team at Rumford Hospital are pictured with President and CEO David Frum, front. In back are Staci Coolidge and Dianna Fournier. In the middle are Charlene Shaw, Tracey Milledge, Rena Nichols and Marlene Jones.

The federal Department of Health and Human Services regularly surveys patients about their experiences during hospital stays. They publish the results quarterly. These surveys are called HCAPS. During the last quarter Rumford Hospital scored 100% on the HCAP in cleanliness.

The Environmental Services Department held a party, complete with balloons and a cake, to celebrate their achievement. According to Tracey Milledge, Environmental Services Supervisor, "We are lucky to have such outstanding employees in the Environmental Services Department."

10/07/2012

Red Cross Blood Drive - October 10

Dee Holman oversees the canteen at a blood drive at the American Legion.

The River Valley Rotary and Rumford Hospital will sponsor a Red Cross Blood Drive at the Rumford American Legion on Wednesday, October 10 from noon until 6pm. There is an urgent need for blood now, especially types O negative, O positive, B negative and A negative.

Although an emergency appeal early in the summer helped to temporarily stop the decrease in blood donations, blood donations over the summer were the lowest they have been in 15 years.

Your blood donation helps ensure that there is blood available for the treatment of cancer patients, people with blood disorders, trauma victims, premature babies and others who face life-threatening illnesses.

Although walk-ins are welcome, donors often get through the process more quickly when they have an appointment. It is particularly important for people who qualify to donate double reds to have an appointment. To make an appointment call Rumford Hospital at 369-1000 or 1-800-RED CROSS or 1-800-733-2767, specify if you wish to give double reds.

10/07/2012

Living beyond breast cancer with Dr. Nicholette Erickson

Dr. Nicholette Erickson

On Tuesday, October 23, The Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing and Rumford Hospital will sponsor Dr. Nicholette Erickson addressing some of the common issues cancer survivors face. She will talk about fatigue, motivation to move more and return to daily activities, and stress management. She will also touch on the need for support from others who have shared the experience. This program will be presented from 4:30 to 5:30pm in Rumford Hospital's Conference Room A on the ground floor.

Erickson earned her medical degree from the Medical College of Virginia, Richmond, VA, and served her residency there, as well. She served a fellowship in Hematology-Oncology at the University of Virginia Health Sciences Center in Charlottesville, VA. Erickson sees cancer patients every week in Rumford Hospital's Specialty Clinics and in the Lariviere Oncology Suite.

Preregistration for this program is necessary and can be done by calling the Dempsey Center at 795-8250.

10/07/2012

What has 25 tables chock full of crafts and food and books? Find out on October 20!

At last year's Oktoberfest Kathy Gracetta sold a variety of crafts. She'll be back again this year.

Oktoberfest on October 20 from 9am until 2pm will have lots of vendors with a wide variety of goods. Tables filled with crafts, baked goods, herbs, knits and raffles will fill the Hope Association building on Lincoln Avenue (formerly the Armory). And that doesn't count the tables of children's games and activities or the Rotary's used book sale. There will be a children's book room again this year.

Rotary Interact will be on hand to serve a pancake breakfast from 8 to 10am and a pizza lunch. You can count on Paul Jones' famous Silver Lake Apple Crisp again this year. Plus some vendors will have food for sale. Hope Association will sell raffle tickets on several items that will be on display.

Children's games with prizes for all include ring toss, the popular racehorse wheel and bean bag toss.

There is no admission to Oktoberfest. The day benefits the Hope Association and Rumford Area Rotary's charities and scholarships.

09/26/2012

New Parkinson's Support Group forming

Maureen Cook, RN, who has worked in Parkinson's research since 2000, is forming a new Parkinson's Support Group in the River Valley. The first meeting is scheduled for September 27 from 1:30 to 3:00pm in conference room C on the second floor of Rumford Hospital.

Members of the support group will receive information about the Parkinson's diagnosis, medications, symptoms and prognosis. Members will be able to discuss these issues with others who have Parkinson's and with Cook.

There is no charge for this group but reservations are necessary because the space is limited. Call Cook at 418-7648 to reserve a space.

There will be signs posted in the hospital to help people find conference room C.

09/20/2012

Blood Drive - October 10

Patsy Mercier and Dot Benedix are fixtures at the blood drive registration table and will be again on October 10.

Red Cross says the Northeast is experiencing a shortage of all blood types with a critical need for type O negative, O positive, B negative and A negative blood. Blood donations during this summer for the American Red Cross were at the lowest they have been in 15 years.

On Wednesday, October 10, the greater Rumford community can do its part to remedy the situation. That's the day that Rumford Hospital and River Valley Rotary will jointly sponsor another blood drive at the Rumford American Legion. The drive will run from 12noon until 6pm.

The Rumford blood drives have always been among the best in Maine, and we should surge forward again - especially in this time of critical need.

All blood donors in October will have a chance to win a seven day cruise for two, departing from Boston to Bermuda on the Norwegian Dawn.

To make an appointment call the Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767 or Rumford Hospital at 369-1000.

09/15/2012

Lobster Rolls galore!

Bill Gates toasts rolls for other Rotarians to fill with rich lobster or chicken salad. He will be toasting again on September 24.

The River Valley Rotary's next Lobster Lunch is scheduled for Monday, September 24. The lunch - a lobster or chicken salad roll, chips, soda or water and a sweet goodie - is only $8 delivered.

You may call 364-7225 for an order form or simply fax an order with your name or the name of your business, the address, and choosing lobster or chicken rolls to 364-2664. You should also choose your beverage: Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Sierra Mist, Diet Sierra Mist, or water.

Lunches are delivered between 10:30am and 12noon, and you may specify a time that is most convenient for you. Deliveries are made in Rumford, Mexico, Peru and Dixfield, and orders can be picked up at the Hope Association.

09/15/2012

Rumford Hospital's Women's Health Day - October 27 - offers something special

Family Nurse Practitioner Emily McCue

In addition to pampering, refreshments and free breast and cervical screenings, every participant in this year's Women's Health Day on October 27 will have a chance to win a bag full of goodies. Women's Health Day is offered annually by Rumford Hospital and Rumford Physician Groups.

For eligible women the day will include free a screening mammogram and physical exam, including a pap smear. Emily McCue, FNP, will perform the exam. Bone density screening, flu shots, and nutrition advice will also be available. This program is open to all women over the age of 50 who qualify for the Maine Breast and Cervical Health Program. Appointments begin at 8:00am.

Women may call Pam Bentley at Swift River Family Medicine, 369-1194, to see if they qualify for the Maine Breast and Cervical Health Program. She will make each eligible woman an appointment for a physical followed by mammogram on the 2nd floor in the Specialty Clinics at Rumford Hospital. Women are encouraged to inquire about eligibility for the Maine Breast and Cervical Health Program, even if they are unable to take advantage of the scheduled Women's Health Day on October 27.

Maine women, 50 years or older, who have no insurance or whose insurance does not cover mammograms or pap tests or who have a high deductible or co-insurance, and who meet the 2012 income limits will be eligible. There are limited openings for women 40 to 49 years old, with priority given to symptomatic or high risk women.

The mammograms will be done with Rumford Hospital's digital mammography equipment. This equipment allows the test to be done more quickly because film need not be processed. The mammography technologists can immediately view the image on a computer monitor to make sure it is clear. A digital mammogram is clearer than a conventional mammogram, allowing the radiologist to see more detail.

09/06/2012

Rumford Area Rotary plans Oktoberfest on October 20th

A wide variety of crafters always set up at Oktoberfest, and games for kids are a big hit. Tables are still available for the October 20, 2012 event.

Tables are still available for the Oktoberfest sponsored by the Rumford Area Rotary. It will be held this year on Saturday, October 20 from 9am to 3pm at the Adult Activity Center (the former armory building) on Lincoln Avenue in Rumford. Crafters and other groups and individuals will be allowed to set up on Friday, October 19, from 3 to 5pm and at 7:30am on the day of the show.

A single table space is $25 (about 9 by 9 feet); a double, $40. Checks should be made out to the Rumford Area Rotary and mailed to Catherine Johnson, Hope Association, 85 Lincoln Avenue, Rumford, ME 04276. Applicants should include their name, address, phone number and the type of business, craft or activity. The need for electricity should also be indicated.

In addition to crafters and non-profit organizations, Rotary and its Interact Club will offer a pancake breakfast, lunch and sweet treats from the kitchen. There is no admission fee and the public is welcome at Oktoberfest.

For an application for an Oktoberfest table call Hope Association at 364-4561.

09/01/2012

Dempsey September Program

Joshua Lyons

On Wednesday, September 19 from 3 to 4pm, the Dempsey Center and Rumford Hospital will present Joshua Lyons, Claims Representative, Social Security Administration (SSA) at the Rumford Library Public Room. Lyons will offer a general overview of Social Security, Social Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Income (SSDI). He will discuss qualifications, guidelines and how to apply. Lyons will also demonstrate video conference technology used by the SSA that links with the Social Security office in Auburn.

Lyons has worked for the Social Security Administration for four years as a claims representative. He grew up in the Rumford area and graduated from Mountain Valley High School in 2004.

This program is one of the monthly programs sponsored by the Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing and Rumford Hospital. It will be held in the Rumford Library's Public Room. The program is free and open to the public.

08/29/2012

Urge Dad to go to Prostate Screening

Rumford Hospital Pharmacist Gus Carlson listens to the advice of his daughter, Taryn, who urges him to sign up for the free prostate screening at the hospital.

Tell your dad that prostate screening saves lives. Rumford Hospital is offering a free Prostate Screening Clinic on September 5, 2012. This is a good time to remind your dad that you want him around for years to come. You can do that by giving him the number to call to register for the free clinic - 369-1142. If you get voice mail, leave your name and phone number and Specialty Clinic staff will return your call to make an appointment and pre-register you. Men who register in advance will receive a reminder call just before the clinic.

Dr. Albert Aniel will perform the prostate exams. In addition to the physical exam, each participant will have a urine test, blood pressure check and a prostate screening lab test (PSA). The results will be sent to your primary care provider, and a list of primary care providers who are taking new patients will be available at the clinic.

The clinic targets men over 50, especially those who do not have a primary care provider. Men over 40 who experience difficult urination or who have a family history of prostate cancer should also sign up for the screening.

The prostate screening will be held in the Rumford Hospital Specialty Clinics from 9am to 5pm on September 5th. Men who make an appointment will be preregistered by phone so they can proceed directly to the Specialty Clinics on that day.

08/24/2012

Heart Walk at Hosmer Field on September 16

The start of the Heart Walk in 2010 featured pets in the foreground. Pets are still welcome at the walk, and there will be a special registration table for their owners outside the Hosmer Field gate.

Nine teams have committed to walk in the American Heart Association Heart Walk on September 16. They are Becky's Heart Beats, Franklin Savings Bank, Med-Care Ambulance, Oxford Federal Credit Union, Region 9, River Valley Healthy Communities Coalition, Rumford Hospital, Rumford Power and Victorian Villa.

New teams are welcome. There have been teams as large as 60 walkers and one team had only one walker. It's not hard to put together a team. Just ask family and friends or co-workers to walk with you. Even raising money is not difficult. Many walkers simply write a personal check if they are uncomfortable asking others to donate. Team tee shirts can be ordered from Jarato's, where Heart Walk teams receive a discount.

The morning begins with breakfast, supplied by Hannaford, and registration at 8am. The walk begins at 9:30am. Walkers choose from one mile, two mile and four mile routes. Route maps are available the morning of the walk. Some walkers simply walk around the track at Hosmer Field. Lunch from Subway is served after the walk.

Local Heart Walk sponsors are Franklin Savings Bank, Oxford Federal Credit Union, River Valley Healthy Communities Coalition, Rumford Hospital and Winderosa. Hannaford is a regional sponsor. National sponsors are Jenny Craig and Subway.

The MVHS cheerleaders and majorettes will be on hand to lead warm up exercises. There will be games and face painting for the kids. Exhibitors on the field include RSU 10's School Nutrition Director Jeanne LaPointe, Med-Care Ambulance and River Valley Healthy Communities. There will be two massage therapists there to give free massages.

Although dogs are no longer permitted on Hosmer Field, we will place a registration table just outside the gate for walkers who wish to bring their pets. There will be doggie goodie bags for all the furry walkers.

When you register on the 16th be sure to buy a ticket for the raffle of a kayak, donated by Wall-Mart.

08/24/2012

Peg Blouin Nursing Scholarship applications being accepted

Peg Blouin and Pharmacist Gus Carlson at Blouin's retirement party.

The Peg Blouin Nursing Scholarship was established in 2009 upon Blouin's retirement, after 42 years as a registered nurse at Rumford Hospital. Having been a recipient of the Auxiliary scholarship, which enabled her to earn her nursing diploma, Blouin expressed a wish to give back to her community through this scholarship.

The annual award is $1250 to a basic nursing student, not one studying for an advanced degree or specialization, after that student completes a successful first semester. The recipient is chosen by a Rumford Hospital nursing panel comprising the Director of Nursing, the Nurse Manager of Med/Surg and the Nurse Manager of the Emergency Department. The award is based on merit and need.

Applications are open to students who have been accepted into either an associate or bachelors nursing program. These students must live within Rumford Hospital's coverage area.

The award is made after the recipient demonstrates a successful first semester by submitting a transcript. Should the recipient not complete a semester, the award is forfeited and no award is given in that year. If the scholarship recipient does not successfully complete the nursing program, the scholarship money must be returned to the scholarship fund.

To obtain a Peg Blouin Nursing Scholarship application form students may call Rumford Hospital Patient Registration at 369-1000 or visit the reception desk in the hospital lobby between the hours of 8am and 5pm. Peg Blouin Nursing Scholarship applications must be returned to Jane Aube, DON, at Rumford Hospital, postmarked no later than September 28.

08/21/2012

Emotions through your chakra system, a Dempsey Center presentation for August

Rhonda Ouelette of Earth Spirit Healing Center

On Wednesday, August 22, Rhonda McCarthy Ouelette will talk about the chakra system, what it is, how it works and what it consists of. "What my desire for you is that healing from your deepest wounds within are released and light, love, joy and empowerment of self is embraced, so that each of your days you may find contentment no matter what you are going through," explains Ouelette. She will talk about which emotions are held in each chakra, how to release negative emotions and how to visualize your own chakras.

Ouelette is the owner of Earth Spirit Healing Center, located in Mexico, Maine. She has been a registered counselor of soul coaching for the past 17 years, working with people in one-on-one and group settings.

This program is one of the monthly programs sponsored by the Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing and Rumford Hospital. It will be held in the hospital's Conference Room C on the second floor. The program is free and open to the public.

08/05/2012

Free Prostate Screening at Rumford Hospital

Jim and Mona Ervin from the Maine Coalition to Fight Prostate Cancer chat with hospital volunteer Al Hanington.

Rumford Hospital will sponsor a free Prostate Cancer Screening on Wednesday, September 5 from 9am until 5pm in the Specialty Clinics on the hospital's 2nd floor. Appointments for this free service can be made by calling 369-1142 and leaving a name and number for a call back to schedule and pre-register. This is not a walk-in clinic.

Prostate is the most common non-skin cancer and affects one in six men. Men diagnosed in the local or regional stage have a nearly 100 percent chance of survival after five years. This free clinic is offered in the hope of detecting prostate cancer for men in the River Valley area early and treating quickly.

Dr. Albert Aniel will perform digital rectal exams. The screening also includes a urine screen and a PSA (a blood test for prostate specific antigens). Men will also be offered free bone density screening following their exams. The screening clinic is a collaboration among the staffs of the Specialty Clinics, the hospital's Medical Staff, Laboratory and Pharmacy.

Representatives from the Maine Coalition to Fight Prostate Cancer will be on hand with information and personal anecdotes. Light refreshments will be served.

To register for this free service call 369-1142 and leave name and number so that the clinic coordinator can return the call and assign you a convenient appointment time.

08/05/2012

New physician bikes to Maine at the start of his CMMC Family Medicine Residency

Jeanie Zelinski and Clayton Bell stand beside one of the bikes they rode from Arkansas to Maine.

Clayton Bell, MD, will soon join six other physicians entering the Central Maine Medical Center Family Medicine Residency. Following his first year at Lewiston, he will become part of Swift River Family Medicine Rural Track Residency and Rumford Hospital.

He received his medical degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Medicine. Bell searched for a residency program that would include rural experience or even wilderness medicine. He had imagined himself in the West, but discovered the CMMC Rural Track Residency in Rumford and came to visit. Captivated by the mountains and the sea, Bell decided to come to Maine for his residency.

Bell didn't travel to Maine from his home state of Arkansas in the usual manner. He rode his bike 2,500 miles in six weeks along the Appalachian Mountains. The trek was not undertaken solely for the beautiful scenery or the good exercise. Bell is part of the Bisiklet for Haiti Tour, raising funds for the Humanity First Primary School and Community Health Workers Program in Haiti.

Bell says that before the Haitian earthquake several years ago he knew nothing about the island. When he heard of the devastation, however, he wanted to do whatever he could to help. He became a Humanity First volunteer and travelled to Haiti. "You find yourself where you want to be," he says of the experience. What was to have been a month of volunteering stretched into two years.

His volunteer stint began in the capital, Port -au-Prince, which was the center of earthquake devastation. Soon he realized that most, if not all, the humanitarian efforts were concentrated in the city. He and a Haitian companion backpacked into the mountains and discovered villages with no medical services for miles around.

They began slowly taking care of medical needs and educating the Haitians about nutrition. In the end they were able to rehabilitate an old clinic and bring in other medical professionals, including a Haitian physician, to serve the wide rural area.

07/27/2012

Full Physical Exams for School Students

Swift River Family Medicine and Elsemore Dixfield Family Medicine have set aside a few mornings and afternoons over the next month for full physical exams for area school students. Students who require physicals for sports or any other reason should call Swift River or Elsemore Dixfield to schedule an appointment.

Exams at Swift River will be given afternoons from 1 to 5 on July 18, July 23, August 1, and August 13. The number to call is 369-0146 to make an appointment at Swift River.

Exams at Elsemore Dixfield Family Medicine are scheduled for the morning of July 17, the afternoons of July 18 and July 30, and the morning of August 2. The phone number is 562-4226 to make an appointment at Elsemore Dixfield.

Private insurance or MaineCare will be billed for these services, and a sliding fee scale is used for students without insurance.

07/17/2012

Advance Directives Workshops at Rumford Hospital

Karen Swan, Rumford Hospital's Community Care Manager

Rumford Hospital and its physician practices are sponsoring workshops on July 30 at 2pm and again on October 11, also at 2pm. Pat O'Brian, BSN, and Lisa Caillier, BSN, of Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice will lead an interactive discussion on what Advanced Directives are, why you should have a living will and how to fill out the Advanced Directive forms. The workshop content is identical for both presentations. You need to attend only one session to obtain all the information. Both workshops will be held in Conference Room A on the ground floor of the hospital. Light refreshments will be served.

Join us to learn about decisions people often face about their health care. Advanced Directives (living will) allows you to select the person you want to make medical decisions for you in case you become unable to make those decisions. It's essentially preparation for situations in which you might not be able to communicate your wishes. "We often think of living wills as being something for the older person or for someone who is gravely ill," says Karen Swan, Rumford Hospital's Community Care Manager, "but I believe everyone over the age of 18 should have one."

After the session, you will be better informed to understand your options, make sure your wishes are honored, and share your decisions with family, friends and health care providers.

Preregistration is required due to space limitations. To register call Karen Swan, Community Care Manager, at 369-1151. If you reach her voice mail, leave the date you wish to attend, your name, the number of people attending and your phone number.

07/17/2012

Rumford Hospital and Swift River Family Medicine welcome New Resident

Leo Paraskevopoulos

Leo Paraskevopoulos has joined Swift River Family Medicine in the Central Maine Medical Center Family Residency's Rural Track Program. The Canadian native received his MD from St. George's University, Grenada, and his undergraduate degree from McMaster University, Ontario, Canada.

While at McMaster, he worked on a small team to create a camp to help children develop skills in collaboration with peers, leadership, teamwork and communication. He was also a counselor at the Sports Fitness School in Hamilton, Ontario. He volunteered in community outreach while he was in Granada.

Paraskevopoulos chose medicine because, "It feels right, and you get to help people." His obvious interest in children and sports is part of the reason he chose family medicine. "I love sports and being outdoors," he says. "Who doesn't love kids?"

As do all the physicians in the Rural Track Residency Program, he spent his first of three years primarily in CMMC Family Residency, but he did get to spend some time at Swift River Family Medicine, too. Now he will remain here for the last two years of his residency.

"I like working in the team format," Paraskevopoulos notes, "and the attending physicians here treat you with respect." He also feels he gets more attention here to help with his training, and he enjoys the "trusting atmosphere."

Paraskevopoulos says he is fluent in conversational Greek. He owes that to his grandparents who still live in Greece and whom he visited often while growing up in Canada.

When not caring for his patients, Paraskevopoulos enjoys skiing, snowboarding, soccer, football, hockey and gardening, although he has no place to garden here and little time to devote to it.

07/17/2012

Rumford Hospital HEROES 2012 Named

For the fifth consecutive year Rumford Hospital has named HEROES. HEROES stands for Healthcare Employees Reaching Out with Exceptional Service. HEROES was developed by the Central Maine Medical Family to honor employees who demonstrate the system's core values of compassion, citizenship, integrity, service, excellence and commitment.

HEROES are nominated by their peers, and the nominations are reviewed by senior management who make the final decision. HEROES 2012 are Dr. Sean Callender, Jesse Heath, Dr. Larry Hoperstead and Kathy Hutchinson.

Callender, a family physician with Elsemore Dixfield Family Medicine, was cited for his listening abilities, both listening to patients and to nursing staff. "He makes sure residents and nurses are comfortable with the patient's plan of care," one nominator noted. "He is very soft spoken and understanding with patients and the hospital staff," wrote another.

Jesse Heath, Distribution Specialist, is always responsive when asked to do something or obtain something for his co-workers. Jesse received four separate nominations. One of the nominators wrote, "He is always upbeat; greets everyone with a smile; appears to be always happy...whatever is asked of him. Being constantly pleasant is a big plus we should all strive for and be appreciative of."

Dr. Larry Hoperstead, a surgeon with Rumford Surgical Associates, was nominated for setting an example of how to interact with people. "Some people you come across in your lifetime - you just know it's a privilege to have met them," said the nominator. "He treats everyone with dignity and respect, whether he is speaking to a patient, a housekeeper or a fellow physician," noted another.

Kathy Hutchinson, clinical coordinator of the OR, was noted for listening very well with a big heart. "She is able to see situations from all sides and makes decisions without bias," said one nominator. "As Clinical Coordinator of the OR, she guides the staff well," wrote another. "We all look to her as a role model."

The HEROES were feted with an afternoon social and received glass trophies. Their names will be added to a slate plaque beside the first floor elevator doors at the hospital.

07/13/2012

Eagles Auxiliary donates to Rumford Community Home

Rumford Eagles Auxiliary officers Diane O'Leary, left, and Shannon Wing, right, presented a check to Rumford Community Home residents Shirley Burgess, second from left, and Louise Laney, second from right.

The Rumford Eagles Auxiliary raised funds with a Valentines Day dance and presented a $500 check to Rumford Community Home residents. The Auxiliary contributes to Rumford Community Home's Alzheimer's Unit annually, and plans are already in the works for a big Mardi Gras party on February 8, 2013, with all proceeds going to the Unit.

07/05/2012

Rumford Hospital and Swift River Family Medicine Welcome New Resident

Dr. Cathy Krouse

Dr. Cathy Krouse has joined the Rural Track Residency Program at Swift River Family Medicine. As do all Rural Track residents, she spent the first year of her residency in the Central Maine Medical Center Family Residency Program and will now serve two more years in Rumford.

Krouse received her medical education at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Philadephia, PA. She chose the Rural Track Program because she intends to practice in an outpatient clinic in a small community after completing her residency. Krouse wants to practice the full scope of family medicine and feels rumford is a good place to train for that.

Growing up in Lancaster County, PA, Krouse was always curious about how everything worked; and, she says, "The human body is a complex machine." She also says she has a heavy "maternal instinct," wanting to make everyone better.

Krouse is glad to be near the mountains where she can enjoy some of her favorite pastimes - rock-climbing, hiking, white water rafting and other water sports.

07/05/2012

Rumford Hospital and Swift River Family Medicine Bid Farewell to Residents

Petrona Manasseh, MD, and Harpreet Ghotra, MD, at a barbeque celebrating their completion of residency.

Rumford Hospital and Swift River Family Medicine offered congratulations and said farewell to Harpreet Ghotra, MD, and Petrona Manasseh, MD, who have successfully completed their residencies. For two years they had been part of the Rumford Hospital family, serving their residencies in Central Maine Medical Center's Rural Track Residency at Swift River Family Medicine and the hospital.

Swift River Family Medicine is the site of Central Maine Medical Center's Rural Track Residency Program for Family Medicine. In the three-year Rural Track, residents who are recent medical school graduates spend most their first year in Lewiston with their class, but during their second and third years they have the opportunity to learn what it is like to practice in a rural community instead of the large, urban hospitals they have become accustomed to.

Ghotra and Manasseh both say that the River Valley community's cooperation and willingness to help teach them made their stay an unforgettable experience. They have had the opportunity to deliver babies, care for children, comfort elders and diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions.

Ghotra and Manasseh had both heard about the Rumford program from the residents who preceded them. In particular, they had heard the Rural Track praised for its strong training in the full spectrum of Family Medicine.

Manasseh, a Toronto native, will return to that Canadian city to practice, as will Ghotra, whose wife is Canadian. They are hoping, in fact, they will be able to work in the same practice.

06/28/2012

Protecting The Skin You're In

Maureen Higgins, LCSW

More than one million Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer each year. And melanoma, the most deadly skin cancer, is no exception. Learn how to protect against melanoma and other types of skin cancer at the July Dempsey Center presentation at Rumford Hospital.

On Tuesday, July 10 from 10:30 to 11:30 Maureen Higgins, LCSW, Cancer Outreach Educator for the Dempsey Center, will give tips on preventing skin cancer. She will also have the Derma-scan on hand so that participants can learn from their own skin the important of sunscreen. The session will be held in Conference Room C on the second floor of the hospital.

There is no charge for the session but registration is requested. To register call the Dempsey Center at 795-8250.

06/23/2012

Rumford Hospital Celebrates CNA Week

Rumford Hospital honored its CNAs during their special week with a dessert party. Jane Aube, Director of Nursing, told the gathering that CNAs are the heart of care giving at the hospital. CEO David Frum echoed her sentiments. Joette Carlton, Medical Surgical Nurse Manager, handed out gifts. CNAs seated, left to right, are Arlene Lamb, Jami Miranda, Danielle Cunningham (only partially seen), Bonnie Pellitier, Kellie Lannon, Mary Lou Merchant and Candy Welch.

06/20/2012

Hand Crafted Quilts for Rumford Community Home Veterans

Seated from left to right are Tony Poirier, Harold Footman, George Carrier, Gerald Gallant, Lawrence Kerr and Frank MacDonald. The quilters who delivered the quilts are standing, Mary Pulsifer, Annette St. Pierre, Jeanne Lambert and Jean Boudreau.

Rumford Area Quilters (RAQ) made and donated beautiful quilts to all the veterans at Rumford Community Home. Each veteran chose his own quilt. All commented on how special the gifts made them feel.

06/18/2012

Roxbury ATV Club Donates to Rumford Community Home

From left to right are Gibby Hodgkins, Pat Defilipp, President of the Resident Council of the Home's Residential Care Unit, and Mike Worthley.

The Roxbury ATV Club recently donated $609 to the Rumford Community Home Activity Department. The money represents the proceeds of the Club's annual ride in memory of Lee Hodgkins. The money raised always goes to local not-for-profit organizations. Gibby Hodgkins, Lee's father, recommended that the proceeds be given to the residents of Rumford Community Home, so they could plan some special events.

06/18/2012

Significant shortfall of blood throughout New England!

Blood Drive co-coordinator Heather Kellogg holds a sign proclaiming the urgent need for blood. Rumford Hospital and River Valley Rotary will sponsor a Blood Drive on Wednesday, June 13, at the American Legion in Rumford.

The Red Cross reports that levels of blood are at greater than critical level in New England. There is particular need for types O negative and O positive, B negative and A negative.

A Blood Drive is scheduled for Wednesday, June 13 at the American Legion. This drive is sponsored by Rumford Hospital and River Valley Rotary.

Donors should call 1-800-Red Cross (1-800-733-2767) or Rumford Hospital at 369-1000 to make appointments.

06/07/2012

Jewelry Making with Hemp and Beads at Rumford Hospital

Sue Beaudoin shows off a sampling of her hemp and bead creations.

Sue Beaudoin will teach Jewelry Making with Hemp and Beads at Rumford Hospital on June 26 from 4 to 6pm. This class is sponsored by the Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing and is open to anyone impacted by cancer. The class will be held in Conference Room C on the second floor of the hospital.

Beaudoin has been working with hemp and beads for many years. She is an excellent teacher who will help each participant custom design a necklace. No art experience is necessary, and all materials are provided.

Call the Dempsey Center at 795-8250 early to register, as class size is limited to seven participants.

05/23/2012

Red Cross Blood Drive - June 13th

Rumford Hospital Auxilians Patsy Mercier and Dot Benedix staff the Blood Drive Registration Table.

A Red Cross Blood Drive sponsored by Rumford Hospital and River Valley Rotary is scheduled for the Rumford American Legion on Wednesday, June 13th from noon until 6pm. If you have donated blood over the last few years, you would have received a listing of blood drives in this area from the Red Cross. New donors should call to make an appointment.

There will be "Double Red" machines at this drive. If you plan to give double reds, please mention that when you sign up as special appointment lists are available for these. Also, ask about height and weight requirements for Double Red donations to make certain you qualify. Call the Red Cross at 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or Rumford Hospital at 369-1000 to sign up for whole blood or double reds donations.

Blood reserves are at a critically low level in New England. There is a particular need for type O negative blood, which can be received by people with all blood types and is often used in emergencies when there's no time to determine the patient's blood type.

05/23/2012

River Valley Rotary Lobster Lunch - June 11th

Rotarians Barbara Belanger, Dick Lovejoy, Tim Placey and Rich Allen will hundreds of bags for a Lobster Lunch.

River Valley Rotary's next Lobster Lunch is Monday, June 11. A lunch delivered to your place of business or home is only $8.00. The Lobster Lunch includes a toasted lobster or chicken salad roll, chips, a baked goodie and soda or water. New this time: you can order chicken salad rather than lobster!

If you don't have an order form, call Greg at 364-7225, or fax your order form to him at 364-2664 by Wednesday, June 6th. You can email your order to lobsterlunch@hotmail.com.

Proceeds from Lobster Lunches are donated to local charitable organizations and used for Rotary Scholarships for local high school seniors.

Note that you don't have to be a business to order. Rotary will deliver orders to homes.

05/23/2012

Rumford Hospital Annual Appeal Off and Running

Leeann Gross and Dora Morton, medical assistants in the Rumford Hospital Specialty Clinics, show off the new EKG machine there.

Since the initial mailing for the 2012 Rumford Hospital Annual Appeal went out last month, gifts have been coming in at a steady pace. The generous River Valley Community has shown very generous support for its community hospital.

Last year's appeal was also well received, and the hospital's Capital Expenditures Committee has been selecting pieces of equipment to purchase with the proceeds. New and more comfortable stretchers, both conventional and some for bariatric patients, are already in use. An EKG machine in the Specialty Clinics makes it quick and easy to test patients there. New overhead lifts in the Medical Surgical Unit help patients move ahead on the way to regaining their previous capabilities and lifestyles.

To give to the Annual Appeal community members should mail checks or money orders to Rumford Hospital Community Relations, 420 Franklin St, Rumford, ME 04276, or call 369-1143 to donate with a credit card.

05/10/2012

Yard Sale benefits the Rumford Hospital Auxiliary

Rumford Hospital Auxiliary Members Brenda McInnis, Jackie Couture and Roxanne Thomas show off cookbooks and dishes, just some of the merchandise to be offered at the Auxiliary Yard Sale on Saturday, May 19, at 209 Lincoln Ave.

Saturday, May 19, will see much bustling activity at 209 Lincoln Avenue (the former nurses' residence and VA clinic) when the Rumford Hospital Auxiliary hosts its annual Yard Sale. The sale begins at 8am - no early birds - and ends at 2pm. As usual, there will be chairs, computer tables, dish sets, books, sporting goods and all manner of small items for sale.

The Auxiliary is still accepting donations of items to sell. On Friday, May 18, Auxilians will be at 209 Lincoln Avenue all day to take in your spring cleaning cast offs and to arrange and price items for the sale. All proceeds of the Yard Sale and other Auxiliary fundraisers benefit Rumford Hospital.

05/10/2012

Rumford Hospital's Lariviere Oncology Suite hosts Pamper Yourself Day

Sharon Porter, All That Jazz, gives Alice Dixon a pedicure.

Again this year Rumford Hospital welcomed cancer patients, survivors and their loved ones to indulge themselves in mini-sessions with professionals from local salons and centers. Giving up their morning to pamper the guests were Julie Dickson, Jessica Chessie, Sharon Porter and Penny Rock from All that Jazz. Trendsetters volunteers were Nancy Volkernick, Audre Mathieu, Stephanie Gallant and Hannah Davis. Island Indulgence sent Donna White, Lisa Raheb, and Mellissa Toher. Simplicity's Chelsea Harvey also participated. These women provided mini-sessions in hair styling, facials, pedicures, makeovers, and manicures.

Irene Haynes of A Time for You Massage Therapy, Joan Wood of Gentle Dove and Ashley Waugh of Magic Healing Hands offered massage therapy. Sandee Conley of Rainbow's End Healing and Yoga Center gave both yoga classes and Reiki sessions. Louise Arsenault of Rumford Hospital Therapy Services also performed Reiki.

Professional photos of participants were taken by Tracy Wotton and her daughters, Nicole Gaudin and Sam Blair.

Hannaford, Carabasset Valley Water, House of Beauty, Curves, Anne Stuer, Davis Florist and Bakery, Judy's Variety, Scoops, and Hair Design all donated special gift items or coupons.

Rumford Hospital employees and their family members who volunteered their personal time at Pamper Yourself included Priscilla Bickford, Tammy Breton, Emily Ecker, Dianna Fournier, Leann Gross, Stephany and Sophie Jacques, Jade Kubic, Pam and Emily Luce, Amy Jane Mahar, Abby Mazza and Cindy Toher, Dora Morton, Patty Perry, and Kathy and Emma Shields.

Pamper Yourself Day was a collaborative effort of Rumford Hospital, Lariviere Oncology Suite and the Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing.

04/25/2012

Rumford Hospital Honors Volunteers

Rumford Hospital and Rumford Hospital Auxiliary volunteers were honored during National Volunteer Week with a luncheon and volunteer pins. Volunteers work in Oncology, Medical Records and Diabetes Education, as Patient Visitors and Lobby Hosts, and as Caring Stitchers, who create Comfort Cover lap robes for all inpatients.

In his remarks to the luncheon gathering CEO David Frum singled out Barbara Belanger who not only, as President of the Auxiliary, works on every fundraising project, but also represents the hospital on the board of the Chamber of Commerce. She is also a Patient Visitor and serves on the hospital's Board and Development Committee.

Frum also noted that Martha Hanington, who is also an Auxiliary member, has made 53 Comfort Covers over the last year. Nancy Norris, Yvonne Hemingway, Barbara Sylvester and Effie Waite have all contributed more than 30 Comfort Covers each. Pat Hopkins, who volunteers in Medical Records, has given more than 200 hours this year.

Each volunteer recognized was awarded a Rumford Hospital volunteer pin and enjoyed a lunch catered by The Good Food Store.

04/19/2012

April is Donate Life Month - and it's easy

Sylvia Goodman, left, a Rumford Hospital liaison to the New England Organ Bank, and Beth McInnis, a nurse on Med/Surg, point to the Donate Life banner that will adorn Rumford Hospital throughout April, National Donate Life Month.

Approximately 42 percent of individual 18 and older are currently registered donors; however, with 112,000 patients on the national organ transplant wait list even with so many registered donors, many of those waiting will not receive a transplant in time. "During the month of April we redouble our efforts to increase awareness about the donor registry," says Anne Marie Mahar, one of Rumford Hospital's two liaisons to the New England Organ Bank.

"It used to be that in order to make your wishes to be an organ donor known you had to inform your family member," Mahar notes. "Many people put their wishes in their wills." But these avenues had their drawbacks. If family members were not aware of wishes of donate, it was sometimes a difficult decision to make. The will would not be read in time to procure the organs or tissues.

"These days it is much easier because in Maine you are asked if you would like to be a donor when you renew your driver's license," explains Mahar. "No one can doubt your intentions when your license is clearly marked Organ Donor." This information is entered into a donor registry. This allows organ and tissue donation professionals to determine at the time of death if an individual is registered to be a donor. And it can be even easier and quicker than that!

Donate Life New England is a collaboration of two federally designated organ procurement organizations that serve New England - LifeChoice Donor Services and the New England Organ Bank. They have teamed up to create a fast and easy way for New England residents to register as organ and tissue donors in a secure and confidential manner through www.donatelifenewengland.org.

"If they want to become an organ and tissue donor and have not registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles, I encourage everyone to go to the website and register, so that their wish to donate can be fulfilled," urges Mahar. "When an individual registers on the Donate Life New England site they will be sent an email confirming their registration."

04/19/2012

Rumford Hospital Again Earns ACR Accreditation

Certified Mammography Techs Karen Welch, left, and Jean Soubble worked hard to ensure a successful ACR accreditation for Rumford Hospital's mammography services.

Rumford Hospital has again been awarded a three year term of accreditation in mammography as a result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology (ACR). Mammography uses a low-dose, digital x-ray system to examine breasts to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases in women.

"We wanted to go for accreditation because it represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety," says Jean Soubble, lead mammography technologist. "We believe that the accreditation gives our patients added confidence in the hospital and its staff." Accreditation is awarded only to facilities meeting ACR Practice Guidelines and Technical Standards after a peer-review evaluation by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. The review includes checking image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of equipment, quality control procedures and quality assurance programs.

Soubble and Karen Welch, a fellow mammography technologist, worked to ensure that the accreditation process went smoothly and successfully by carefully making sure all quality control testing was complete, assuring that the physicians and technicians were current with continuing education credits, selecting a variety of completed exams with different types of breasts and extensive paperwork required.

Rumford Hospital's Mammography Suite is a private space located on the second floor of the hospital adjacent to the bone density testing suite. This out of the way location makes it convenient for women to have both a mammogram and a bone density test at the same time.

04/16/2012

What's in Your Cleaning Closet?

Cancer, learning disabilities and reproductive problems are affecting too many families today. Scientific data is increasingly showing that many common health problems are caused or aggravated by dangerous chemicals contained in the products that we use every day. Yet, most commonly used chemicals have never been tested for safety before they are sold.

Emma Halas-O'Connor is a grassroots organizer at the Environmental Health Strategy Center in Bangor. She will present House Hold Products and Our Health: Consumer Choices and Policy Decisions on Tuesday, May 22 from 5:30 to 6:30pm in Rumford Hospital's Conference Room A.

Following a short video produced by the Story of Stuff Project, Halas-O'Connor will provide take-home information on avoiding toxic chemicals in every-day products and explain the latest efforts to achieve safer chemical policies in Maine and around the nation. She will also focus on her current work to remove the toxic chemical BPA from the food supply. The Environmental Health Strategy Center works to build broad-based support for policies promoting safer chemicals in a more sustainable economy.

Patty Duguay, Executive Director of River Valley Healthy Communities Coalition, will join Halas-O'Connor to talk about local efforts to maintain a healthy environment, including the Coalition's annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection program.

This presentation is sponsored by the River Valley Healthy Communities Coalition, Rumford Hospital and The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing. It is free and open to the public. Call the Dempsey Center at 795-8250 to register.

04/06/2012

Rumford Hospital Auxiliary Jewelry Sale May 7 and 8

Barbara Belanger, left, shows Linda Blais and Tracey Milledge the bright pink flyer advertising the Auxiliary May Jewelry Sale.

The annual Mother's Day Jewelry Sale will be held in Rumford Hospital Conference Room A on Monday, May 7 and Tuesday, May 8. On May 7 the sale will be open from 8am until 4pm. On May 8 hours are 7am to 1pm.

All the costume jewelry is priced at 30 to 75 percent below department store prices, from $2 to $10. A selection of fine jewelry, priced below suggested retail, will also be available. Cash, checks, Visa and Master Card are all accepted.

04/05/2012

Rumford Hospital Cardiac Rehab Celebrates

Cardiac Rehab Week was February 12 through the 18th with a theme of "Experience a Change of Heart." The Cardiac Rehab Nurses, Tammy Berry, Dan Elliott and Sharon Gates, made bags filled with goodies and presented them to all participants in the Cardiac Rehab Phase II Program. Cardiac Rehab Phase II is a health insurance paid program which patients attend immediately following their cardiac event. (Phase I of heart patient education is delivered in the hospital where they were treated for the event.)

The Cardiac Rehab Department was completely renovated in 2010 and includes 15 pieces of new exercise equipment, hand weights and other exercise options to meet patient needs. Phase II classes are held three days a week and consist of physical conditioning, supplemented by education, relaxation training and support group interaction. The Cardiac Rehab staff saw 203 patients in Phase II during the month of February, a record.

Cardiac Rehab Phase III is a self-pay program for anyone with a history of heart or lung disease. A physician referral is required to enter the program. One-hour classes are held two days each week.

On March 1 the staff celebrated the one year anniversary of the Phase III program by inviting current participants to a get-together. Each participant received a year's subscription to Nutrition Action magazine. During the first year of the program, 28 patients participated. The average number of visits per patient was 58.6, and Phase III participants accumulated 704 hours of exercise.

03/30/2012

It's a matter of balance at Rumford Hospital

Rhonda Norton, PT, DPT, of Rumford Hospital Therapy Services

If you're concerned about your balance and falling, this presentation is for you. On Thursday, April 5th, from 2 to 3pm Rumford Hospital Therapy Services Physical Therapist Rhonda Norton, PT, DPT, will present an interactive discussion about balance problems and falls that can occur for cancer survivors as a result of cancer treatment. The session will be held in Conference Room A on the ground floor of the hospital.

Presented under the auspices of the Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing, the session will include balance screenings and introduce strategies for improving balance. Poor balance and the falls it can cause are serious. Those falls can lead to injury and ensuing limitations on the activities of daily living.

Norton received her master's degree in physical therapy from Husson College in 2000 and her doctorate from Husson University in 2009. She has worked at Rumford Hospital since 2000.

To register for this session call the Dempsey Center at 795-8250.

03/23/2012

Dr. Petrona Manasseh chooses the Rumford Hospital Birthing Center

At the Rumford Hospital Birthing Center, Dr. Petrona Manasseh, seated, holds her newborn, Hannah-Grace Manasseh; her husband, Omar Manasseh, is seated behind her.

Dr. Petrona Manasseh, in her second and final year of the Rural Residency Program at Swift River Family Medicine (her third year in the Central Maine Medical Center Residency Program), chose to have her first child in the Rumford Hospital Birthing Center. "It validates this working environment," she says. "It speaks of the quality of the staff here." Dr. Said Daoud, OB/GYN, delivered Hannah-Grace Manasseh. The new mother works closely with Daoud at Swift River. "The people here are like family," says Manasseh, "I wouldn't want to have my baby anywhere else." She has chosen to return to her native Toronto, Ontario, Canada to practice, but says she's considering coming back to Rumford Hospital to have her next baby.

03/14/2012

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Colorectal Cancer Screening Saves Lives

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

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

More information go to:

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

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

03/09/2012

Dr. Daoud Delivers His 50th Rumford Hospital Baby

Dr. Said Daoud was a locum tenens at Rumford Hospital in late 2007 and liked it so much that he returned permanently in 2010. On February 28 he delivered his 50th baby since first coming to Rumford. Dr. Daoud is based at Swift River Family Medicine. Two of his family medicine colleagues, Dr. Stephanie Youd and Dr. John Kroger, also practice obstetrics.

Crystal McLean had been seeing Daoud throughout her pregnancy and, as happens nearly 90 percent of the time at Rumford Hospital, he delivered her baby. Brayden Beaulieu weighed in at eight pounds, eight ounces. He was welcomed by Dad Andrew Beaulieu and Sister Tiana McLean, eight, in addition to mom, Crystal McLean. The family lives in Rumford, of which Crystal is a native.

Daoud is certified in obstetrics and gynecology through the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, London, U.K., and the American Board of Family Physicians. He earned his medical degree at Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.

03/08/2012

Rumford Hospital's Heart to Heart Conference Postponed until March 10

This year's Heart to Heart conference at Rumford Hospital has been postponed until Saturday, March 10. This promises to be an exciting program this year with staff from the Emergency Department talking about and demonstrating the hospital's new ability to hook up with neurologists at Massachusetts General Medical Center to help diagnose and treat stroke patients who present at the ED.

The stroke presentation will be followed by a shorter session, Exercise as Prescription. If your physician prescribed a "medicine" that could lower your blood pressure and cholesterol, raise your good cholesterol, make you stronger, improve your balance, and lead to a healthier life, would you take it?

A panel discussion will follow a short break, covering the basics of heart healthy eating, including information about community gardens and fresh food distribution, nutrition guidelines and how to select foods that satisfy both cardiac and diabetes diet requirements.

Heart to Heart registration and a light breakfast will be offered from 8 until 9am. The first presentation will begin at 9. Following the panel discussion a light lunch will be served at about 11:45am. There will be door prizes and recipes, and the whole event is free.

A few spaces are still available. Advanced registration is required as the space in Conference Room A, where the event will be held, is limited. Call 369-1143 to register and leave a phone number in case inclement weather necessitates another postponement.

02/28/2012

March Dempsey Center Workshop at Rumford Hospital

Dr. Nicholette Erickson will talk about colon cancer at the March Dempsey Center Workshop at Rumford Hospital. The workshop is scheduled for March 20 from noon to 1pm in Conference Room A on the ground floor of the hospital.

Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death for both men and women in Maine. Colon cancer, however, is preventable! Come learn about ways to reduce the risk, the importance of screening, and new research for treating colon cancer.

Erickson earned her medical degree from the Medical College of Virginia, Richmond, VA, and served her residency there, as well. She served a fellowship in Hemotology-Oncology at the University of Virginia Health Sciences Center, Charlottesville, VA. She is certified in Hemotology-Medical Oncology by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Space is limited. Please register by calling the Dempsey Center at 795-8250.

02/28/2012

Rumford Hospital sponsors Black Mountain of Maine Races and Trainings

Rumford Hospital has signed on to support Black Mountain's 2012 schedule of races and trainings. "The hospital believes that Black Mountain's mission of improving the health of the people of the River Valley by encouraging and providing outdoor exercise is very much in line with the hospital's aim to help create a healthier community," says Rumford Hospital CEO David Frum. "We are proud to be affiliated with Black Mountain's long history of contributing to our community."

02/23/2012

Rumford Hospital sponsors Black Mountain of Maine Races and Trainings

02/23/2012

Rumford Hospital Wound Clinic has New Physician

March 1st Dr. Narasimha Swamy will join certified wound care nurse Barbara MacGregor, BSN, RN, CDE, CWS, in the Specialty Clinics at Rumford Hospital. He will also perform non-invasive varicose vein procedures in the hospital's surgical suite. Swamy joined the Central Maine Providers group a year ago and has been practicing primarily at Bridgton Hospital since then.

Before coming to Maine, Swamy served as attending surgeon at Northern Westchester Hospital in Mount Kisco, NY. He also practiced at Hudson Valley Hospital Center and Geneva General Hospital, also in New York State.

He received his medical education at Bangalore Medical College, Karnataka, India. His surgical residency was completed at Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, NY, and Sinai-Grace Hospital in Detroit, MI. He is certified by the American Board of Surgery.

Swamy is a member of the Central Maine Surgical Associates, a group of nine general surgeons serving the needs of general surgery and trauma patients throughout the central and western Maine region.

MacGregor is a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) and also a Certified Wound Specialist (CWS). She will assist Swamy in procedures, treatment and care management of wounds.

The Wound Clinic is offered Thursdays from 9am to 4pm. Swamy and MacGregor will see post op wounds, lacerations, trauma wounds, diabetic wounds and ulcers, pressure ulcers, and burns. They will perform removal and biopsy of suspicious skin lesions. They will also treat complex soft tissue wounds and infections, lymphedema, skin lesions, gangrene and osteomyelitis. Dr. Swamy will perform non-invasive varicose vain procedures in the hospital's surgical suite

To schedule an appointment for the Wound Clinic call MacGregor at 369-1222 and leave a message with your phone number, name and date of birth, or have your primary care provider call to make the appointment for you.

02/19/2012

Advanced Directives (Living Will) Workshops at Rumford Hospital

March 7 (2pm) and 14 (6pm) Pat O'Brian, BSN, of Androscoggin Home Car and Hospice will lead and interactive discussion on what Advanced Directives are, why you should have a living will and how to fill out the Advanced Directive forms. The workshop content is identical. You need to attend only one session to obtain all the information. Both workshops will be held in Conference Room A on the ground floor of the hospital. Light refreshments will be served.

Join us to learn about decisions people often face about their health care. Advanced Directives (living will) allows you to select the person you want to make medical decisions for you in case you become unable to make those decisions. It's essentially preparation for situations in which you might not be able to communicate your wishes. "We often think of living wills as being something for the older person or for someone who is gravely ill," says Karen Swan, Rumford Hospital's Community Care Manager, "but I believe everyone over the age of 18 should have one."

After the session, you will be better informed to understand your options, make sure your wishes are honored, and share your decisions with family, friends and health care providers.

Preregistration is required due to space limitations. To register call Karen Swan, Community Care Manager, at 369-1151. If you reach her voice mail, leave the date you wish to attend, your name, the number of people attending and your phone number.

02/15/2012

Blood Donations are Critical Now

Each day about 44,000 units of blood are needed in the United States. Approximately, every two seconds someone in this country needs blood.

Across Maine, the Red Cross has been getting fewer units of blood than budgeted at every blood drive. Rumford Hospital and the River Valley Rotary Club are sponsoring a drive on Wednesday, February 15 at the Rumford American Legion from 12noon to 6pm.

All blood types are needed. Individuals who are 17 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. Men who are at least 5'1" tall and weigh at least 130 pounds and women who are at least 5'5" tall and weigh at least 150 pounds and who have type O, A negative or B negative blood may be eligible to give "double reds." In double reds donations the red cells are separated from the platelets, plasma and white blood cells. The red cells are retained but the remainder of the blood is returned to the donor's body.

For more information about donating blood or to make an appointment for February 15th, call the Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS.

02/10/2012

Go Red for Women Day at Rumford Hospital

The first Friday in February is Go Red for Women Day all around the US. It's a day aimed at increasing awareness of women and heart disease. Many people think of heart disease as a man's disease, but in reality heart disease kills more women than any other cause, more than cancer, more than accidents, more than respiratory disease.

Again this year the staff of Rumford Hospital wore red on Friday, February 3, and the volunteer Lobby Host passed out red dress pins to everyone who came through the door. At noon staff members gathered to have their photo taken in all their red splendor.

02/09/2012

Red Cross Blood Drive at American Legion Feb 15

A Red Cross Blood Drive sponsored by Rumford Hospital and River Valley Rotary is scheduled for the Rumford American Legion on Wednesday, February 15 from noon until 6pm. If you have donated blood over the last few years, you would have received a listing of blood drives in this area from the Red Cross.

There will be "Double Red" machines at this drive. If you plan to give double reds, please mention that when you sign up as special appointment lists are available for these. Call the Red Cross at 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or Rumford Hospital at 369-1000 to sign up for whole blood or double reds donations.

Blood reserves are again low in New England. There is a particular need for type O negative blood, which can be received by people with all blood types and is often used in emergencies when there's no time to determine the patient's blood type.

01/27/2012

Rumford Hospital Laboratory again Accredited by College of American Pathologists

Rumford Hospital's Laboratory has again been awarded accreditation by the Commission on Laboratory Accreditation of the College of American Pathologists (CAP), based on the results of a recent on-site inspection.

The CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program, begun in the early 1960s, is recognized by the federal government as being equal to or more stringent than the government's own inspection program.

During the accreditation process, inspectors examine laboratory records and quality control procedures for the preceding two years. CAP inspectors examine the entire staff's qualifications, the laboratory equipment, facilities, safety program and record, as well as the overall management of the laboratory. This ensures the highest standard of care for patients.

"I am so proud of the group of dedicated people who make up the Lab team at Rumford Hospital," says Sally Stone, Lab manager.

Dr. John Skinner, the RH Lab Medical Director, noted that the entire Laboratory team is essential in maintaining the accreditation. "They regularly document the lab's adherence to the CAP standards, and they ensure that the laboratory maintains ongoing programs of quality assurance and quality improvement."

"Patients whose testing is performed at Rumford Hospital's laboratory can certainly feel confident that their results are accurate and consistent," Skinner adds.

01/27/2012

Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing presents at Rumford Hospital

"Empower Yourself into the New Year" was recently presented at Rumford Hospital, sponsored by the Dempsey Center. Dan Elliott, RN, of the hospital's Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab Department was the presenter. The program aimed to provide strategies to make participants feel more energetic and engaged in life through fun activities and gentle exercise.

Elliott has been in nursing field for eight years and was a teacher prior to earning his RN. Emily Ecker, the Dempsey social worker who works at Rumford Hospital two days each week, arranged the program. In addition to providing special educational and healing programs, Ecker counsels patients with cancer and their loved ones.

01/27/2012

Special Program for the New Year January 26

Do you have too much stress? Do you want to enhance your mental and physical well being? On Thursday, January 26, from 1:30 -3:00pm Rumford Hospital and the Dempsey Center for Cancer Health and Healing presents Empower Yourself into the New Year with Dan Elliott, RN, of the Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Department at Rumford Hospital.

This program will provide participants with strategies to make them feel more energetic and engaged in life, through fun activities and gentle exercise. This program is offered for cancer survivors, family/friends or anyone interested.

Elliott has been in the nursing field for eight years. He loves helping people empower themselves to optimum health. In addition to nursing, Elliott is a member of the Sunday River Ski Patrol and Mahoosuc Mountain Rescue.

01/02/2012

New Diabetes Support Group at Rumford Hospital

Certified Diabetes Educator Barbara MacGregor, BSN, RN, CDE, is hosting a new, free Diabetes Support Group at Rumford Hospital. The first meeting will be Wednesda, January 18 from 6:00 to 7:30pm in Conference Room A on the hospital's ground floor.

During this first meeting discussion will revolve around the goals for the group, meeting schedules, speakers and sharing guidelines and responsibilities. Plans are to make this a monthly meeting scheduled on a regular day and time that is most convenient for the participants. When schools are cancelled due to inclement weather, the meetings will also be cancelled.

People who are unable to attend this meeting or who want more information should call MacGregor at 369-1222.

12/28/2011

Rumford Hospital GEMS 2011 Celebrated

Six years ago the Central Maine Medical Family developed a program - GEMS - which recognizes clinical staff and clinical support staff for excellence in five areas: clinical excellence, customer service, education and research, leadership, and community service. The ultimate goal of the program is to demonstrate commitment to excellence in patient care throughout the system.

GEMS stands for Growth, Enthusiasm, Motivation and Spirit. The GEMS program recognizes staff at three levels, or steps of achievement - Sapphire, Ruby and Diamond. In order to keep standards high, staff members are awarded GEMS status for two years, after which they must re-apply for their current level or a higher level. The three levels - sapphire, ruby and diamond - carry increasingly tougher criteria.

Staff members apply to the GEMS program by meeting a required number of criteria and submitting proof of certifications, education and leadership, as well as their managers' signature on special GEMS forms. At each hospital - Bridgton Hospital, Central Maine Medical Center and Rumford Hospital - an interdisciplinary committee, comprised of both clinical and non-clinical staff people, reviews the applications, making certain the applicants have met all the criteria. Managers are not eligible for the GEMS program.

Tammy Berry, RN, a new diamond GEMS, is a Cardiac Rehab nurse. She lives in Livermore. Daniel Elliott, RN, also a Cardiac Rehab nurse, is another new diamond GEMS. He resides in Rumford. Sharon Gates, RN, of Peru is a new diamond GEMS and a Cardiac Rehab nurse. Stephany Jacques, RN, of Peru has attained the ruby GEMS level. She works in Oncology and in the Specialty Clinics. Patty Perry, RN, another Oncology nurse, is a new diamond GEMS. She lives in Rumford. Janet Richards, RN, is a new ruby GEMS. She works on Med/Surg and resides in Mexico.

Renewing GEMS are Shandi Averill, RN, ruby, a Birthing Center nurse who lives in Dixfield; Tamara Breton, RN, of Roxbury, an Oncology nurse; Brenda Duguay, RN, of Rumford, the ICU Clinical Coordinator; and Janice Durland, RN, an ICU nurse who lives in Mexico. Also renewing GEMS status are Serena Flagg, RN, of Carthage, a Med/Surg and Birthing Center nurse; Barbara MacGregor, RN, of Rumford, the Diabetes Education and Wound Care nurse; Joshua Merrill, Emergency Department Tech, of Rumford; and Pamela Poisson, RN, of Farmington, an Emergency Department nurse.

A celebration was held on December 8 to induct the new GEMS and to honor renewing GEMS.

12/16/2011

Rumford Hospital Thanks Donors and Volunteers!

At Thanksgiving Rumford Hospital sent out thank you cards to people who have donated to the Annual Appeal over the last five years. This is a new tradition developed by the Development Committee at the suggestion of Lolisa Windover, one of the committee's most active members. The task of putting together the mailing fell to Auxiliary Members Dot Benedix and Patsy Mercier.

Benedix and Mercier, always willing to help with mailings, also volunteered to help with holiday cards this year. For many years Rumford Hospital has sent cards to members of its Mountain Society, Auxilians and volunteers. This adds up to several hundred cards, so the help of volunteers is much appreciated.

Auxiliary members are always willing to volunteer at the hospital in addition to all the fundraising work they do, the proceeds of which always are donated to the hospital. For the Annual Appeal 2011 they have again pledged $5000.

12/16/2011

Peg Blouin Scholarship awarded

Kellie Lannon is this year's recipient of the Peg Blouin Scholarship at Rumford Hospital. She is a nursing student at the University of Maine at Augusta, having entered the program in 2009. Lannon, a graduate of Mexico High School, still resides in Mexico. She achieved GEMS status at Rumford Hospital while she was a CNA there for six years. (GEMS is a program that recognizes achievement in clinical excellence, customer service, education and research, leadership, and community service.)
In her free time, Lannon enjoys cooking and kayaking.

The Peg Blouin Nursing Scholarship was established in 2009 upon Blouin's retirement, after 42 years as a registered nurse at Rumford Hospital. Having been a recipient of the Auxiliary scholarship, which enabled her to earn her nursing diploma, Blouin expressed a wish to give back to her community through this scholarship.

The annual award is $1250 to a basic nursing student, not one studying for an advanced degree or specialization, after that student completes a successful first semester. The recipient is chosen by a Rumford Hospital nursing panel comprising the Director of Nursing, the Nurse Manager of Med/Surg and the Nurse Manager of the Emergency Department. The award is based on merit and need.

Applications are open to students who have been accepted into either an associate or bachelors nursing program. These students must be residents of Rumford Hospital's service area.

This is the third year the Blouin Scholarship has been awarded.

12/04/2011

A Gift of Yarn to Rumford Hospital's Caring Stitchers

Jeanne Cole, left, and Corrine Downs, right, give a basket of yarn for Comfort Covers for Rumford Hospital inpatients to Charlene Cooper.

Comfort Covers - some crocheted, some knit, some fleece, some quilted - are given to every inpatient at Rumford Hospital. They help patients feel not only warm but also cared for. Each cover carries a tag urging a patient to take the cover home with them.

Comfort Covers are created by the Caring Stitchers, the group led by Charlene Cooper and Joette Carlton. The group was originally comprised of hospital employees who met every other week to knit and crochet and exchange patterns. They also taught volunteers to knit and crochet. Now the group has expanded to welcome members from the community, some of whom meet with the group and some of whom do their "stitching" on their own.

Many of the stitchers purchase the yarn they use, donating not only their time and talent but also their materials. From time to time, however, other people donate yarn, fleece or fabric for quilts to the group. Knowing this, Corrine Downs and Jeanne Cole of Region 9 Vocational and Adult Education conceived a plan to increase yarn donations. They are placing baskets at Region 9 and also at the Rumford/Mexico University College in the hope that students and staff will drop materials for Comfort Covers off.

"We are always happy to accept donations of materials," notes Cooper. "Right now we are in need of more stitchers to make Comfort Covers because we haven't been able to keep up with the demand." The covers are approximately 36 inches by 48 inches, a good size to use as lap robes or over the shoulders.

Anyone interested in joining the Caring Stitchers, either at their get-togethers or as an at-home stitcher, or anyone who has materials to donate may call Cooper at 369-1038.

11/10/2011

Poinsettias from the Rumford Hospital Auxiliary

Auxilians pose with their favorite hospital patient (in wheelchair) as they distribute plants on Poinsettia delivery day 2010.

The annual Rumford Hospital Auxiliary Poinsettia Sale order forms have been mailed to businesses around the area. Last year more than 400 plants were delivered to local businesses or picked up at the hospital by individuals. Individuals may also have them delivered with others to their place of business. The brightly foil-wrapped, eight-inch poinsettias are $9.50, due at time of delivery or pick-up - Friday, December 2, 2011.

To obtain an order form, which must be returned by Friday, November 25th at noon, call Barbara Belanger at 364-3648 or Jennifer Kreckel at 364-4593.

11/10/2011

Purple Caps for Babies at Rumford Hospital

During November 2011 every newborn across the state of Maine will receive a knit purple cap. Indeed, the effort is a nationwide attempt to create awareness about normal infant crying and the dangers of shaking babies. The caps are being distributed to hospitals through community agencies everywhere. In this case Community Concepts delivered caps, many made by local knitters, to Rumford Hospital's Birthing Center.
Shaken baby syndrome is the most serious and most common form of infant abuse, according to the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome (NCSBS). A leading trigger for this abuse is frustration with an inconsolable crying infant. In addition to the purple baby caps new parents get DVDs and a booklet about normal infant crying and the dangers of shaking an infant. "Babies all go through a normal period of increased crying in the first few months of life," says Ryan Steinbeigle, Director of Development for the NCSBS. "The goal of this program is to normalize this period and help parents and caregivers find ways to cope."
The first purple cap given at Rumford Hospital went to Connor Andrew Thompson who was born November 2. The first child of Amanda and Joel Thompson of Mexico, Connor weighed in at five pounds seven ounces. His mother will be a stay-at-home mom and his father works at Advance Auto where the couple met. Connor's paternal grandparents are Dale and Stacy Thompson of Rumford, where Joel grew up. Amanda's parents are Butch and Terri Cooper of Turner, her home town.
The Thompsons say that their birthing classes at Rumford Hospital taught them about the dangers of shaken baby syndrome, but they didn't know about the caps until one was presented to Connor. "This is a good way to raise awareness," says Joel. "We couldn't have asked for a better experience than we've had here at Rumford." "The nurses are great," adds Amanda. The Thompsons are happy to be a part of spreading the word of the NCSBS, as are the Birthing Center nurses at Rumford Hospital.

11/10/2011

Dr. Larry Hopperstead joins practice at Rumford Hospital

Area hospital is pleased to add a distinguished surgeon to their staff

10/13/2010

Lariviere Family Supports RH Oncology

More members of Al and Freda Lariviere?s family have stepped forward to make very generous gifts to the Rumford Hospital Oncology Fund. Eric Boucher, the son of the Larivieres? older daughter, brought a check for $500 to the nurses in the Lariviere Oncology Suite while he was visiting his grandparents in August. Two months later Boucher's sister, Cori Rockwood, was on hand to present a check from her and her husband.

Brother and sister are both graduates of Mountain Valley High School and still feel close to Rumford, where they grew up, and to the Lariviere Oncology Suite, which their grandfather raised funds to establish and which is named for their uncle David.

When the Lariviere's son David was diagnosed with cancer, he was living near Portland and had to drive only a few miles for chemotherapy services. Al knew that people in Rumford weren't so fortunate - that they had to drive to Lewiston for infusion services. He was determined that in the future Rumford area patients wouldn?t have to do that.

Lariviere began asking friends and family for donations to establish an oncology suite right at Rumford Hospital - quality health care, close to home. In 1997 Lariviere?s determination paid off, and the first suite was opened with three infusion stations. In 2004 the suite moved to a new location on the second floor of the hospital and doubled in size.

Throughout its history the Lariviere Oncology Suite has enjoyed the support of the Lariviere family, including the elder Larivieres? older son Phil and his wife Gloria and younger daughter Suanne Fischer and her husband David, as well as Boucher?s mother Karen.

11/19/2009

2009-2010 Annual Appeal Kicks Off

The Rumford Hospital Annual Appeal 2009-2010 first mailing of the year appeared in local mail boxes during the second week of November and within a few days $20,000 had been donated and pledged. In addition to asking for gifts, the Annual Appeal letter and brochure name a few of the furnishings and equipment that have been purchased in the past with annual appeal funds. ?We want people to read the material and learn more about the hospital,? explains Jolan Ippolito, chair of the hospital board.

?We hope the response from the community will be as generous as in past appeals, as we have lots of newly developed equipment to purchase,? she adds. ?We need to keep renewing our hospital.? Since opening the new consolidated unit in December of last year, Rumford Hospital has been able to relocate Therapy Services to the former inpatient area, purchase digital mammography and bone density scanning equipment, and renovate two operating rooms.

The 2009-2010 Annual Appeal brochure has a beautiful and timely cover photo taken by Charlotte Hartley of the Therapy Services Department. It shows Physical Therapist Rhonda Norton working with Campbell Magno, using two of the pieces of equipment in the dedicated pediatric room of Therapy Services? new space. The photo is timely because some of the new therapy equipment was purchased with annual appeal funds.

11/19/2009

Comfort Covers warm Rumford Hospital patients

Just when the program to give every Rumford Hospital patient a lap robe, a comfort cover, was running out of the handmade covers, Rejeanne Laverdure stepped in to save the day. She had made more than 20 crocheted covers to donate to the hospital?s program.

Comfort Covers are the brainchild of hospital Accountant Charlene Cooper and Birthing Center Nurse Manager Joette Carlton, who are both fond of needlework. Comfort Covers ? some crocheted, some knit, some fleece, some quilted ? help patients feel not only warm but also cared for, warming hearts as well as laps. Each cover carries a tag urging a patient to take the cover home with them.

Initially the Caring Stitchers, as the group led by Cooper and Carlton calls itself, were all hospital employees who met every other Monday to knit and crochet and exchange patterns. They also taught volunteers to knit and crochet. Now the group has expanded to welcome members from the community, some of whom meet with the group and some of whom do their ?stitching? on their own.

The group has also added meetings on the Mondays when they don?t knit and crochet to devote themselves to quilting. Anyone interested in joining the Caring Stitchers should call Cooper at 369-1038 for information about preferred sizes and meeting times.

11/19/2009

Rumford Hospital's ED now equipped with ultrasound

Rumford Hospital recently purchased a portable ultrasound machine, which will be used by Emergency Department and Birthing Center providers. Purchased with grant funds, the machine will allow clinicians to assess cardiac activity, basic anatomy, and suspected internal bleeding from trauma. It will help OB providers in determining fetal position and heartbeat, and other specific conditions.

Ultrasound provides immediate images that assist providers to determine the treatment requirements necessary for patients. Bedside imaging is becoming standard in many emergency departments across the country. Portable ultrasound will not replace complete and comprehensive image studies, but it enhances other diagnostic assessments when looking for specific diagnoses.

In facilities where ultrasound is not available 24 hours a day, patients are often held in the ED until ultrasound technologists can be called in or patients may be asked to return the next morning for the ultrasound. When a quick diagnosis is imperative in an emergency situation, the bedside ultrasound will provide a timely and quality solution to 24/7 ultrasound availability.

?Having a portable ultrasound machine available is a statement to the community that Rumford Hospital is committed to providing outstanding quality care,? says Robin Gilbert, RN, Emergency Department Manager.

11/19/2009

Rumford Hospital honors employees

Rumford Hospital recently honored employees with 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, 10 and five years of service. Andrea Child of Dixfield was honored for 35 years of service. She is a registered nurse on the Medical/Surgical unit. Brenda Duguay of Rumford, Head Intensive Care Nurse, received accolades for 30 years, as did Paula Voter of Mexico, Dietary Manager. Pharmacy Certified Technician Cindy Toher of Rumford was honored for 25 years.

Linda Blais of Rumford, Plant Operations; Donna Cambra of Rumford, Medical Records; Joette Carlton of Dixfield, Birthing Center Nurse Manager; Elaine Cross of Bethel, Lab; and Sally Stone of Dixfield, Lab Manager, were honored for 20 years of service. Weighing in at 15 years of service were Deb Day-Oliver of Bethel, Quality Services; Rodney Kuhl of Rumford, Swift River Family Medicine; Alicia Welch for Dixfield, Lab; and Stephen Yap, RN, of Rumford, Emergency Department.

Honorees for 10 years were Elaine Buckley, RN, Med/Surg; Kim Gagnon, Physician Practice Manager; Jo Hebert, Central Supply; Pauline Larone, RN, Med/Surg; Tamera Richard, Surgical Services; Nicole St. Pierre, ICU; Donna Touchette, Linen Service; Karen Welch, Radiology; Jennifer Woods, Radiology; and Linda Zadakis, Lab.

Barbara Bailey, Jean Cole, Dan Elliott, Cheryl Gardener, Tena Goodbois, Estelle Harrington, Nicole Harris, Elizabeth Hodgdon, Andrea Holder, Kelly Ladd, Vickky Milledge, Nicole Nolette, Charlene Shaw, Judith Thibodau, and Marlene Viger were honored for five years at Rumford Hospital.

11/19/2009

RH's Medical Imaging is all digital!

With the installation of the new digital mammography equipment, Rumford Hospital?s Medical Imaging is totally digital. The implementation of digital mammography is a regional initiative within the Central Maine Medical Family. The Rumford installation was the final phase of installations that began at CMMC?s Bennett Breast Care Center in July, followed by the Bridgton Hospital installation in December. Purchasing the equipment for all three facilities allowed group discount pricing, and the initiative was completed by a grant from the Avon Foundation that help purchase the equipment for Bridgton and Rumford hospitals.
Digital mammography means that the image can be seen immediately by mammography experts at the Bennett Breast Care Center. In addition, digital images provide a higher detail image than traditional film mammography. The Hologic Selenia units installed at all three hospitals were specifically selected for the CMMF hospital due to its lower radiation exposure to the patient ? up to one third less exposure on average than other digital and traditional film units. It also has some of the highest resolution images in the industry.
Patients definitely benefit when their x-rays can be shared electronically. That applies to all patients, not only those having mammograms. In addition to the ability to have a radiologist who specializes in a particular area look at the image, an emergency physician treating the Rumford victim of a car accident that happened in Lewiston could have immediate access to ?baseline? x-rays before proceeding with treatment. The digital images can also be included in each patient?s electronic medical record.
Digital imaging is less time consuming. Instead of going into a darkroom and putting film through a processor, the technologists go to a CR reader, which scans the image from the cassette. If film x-rays were too light or too dark, the techs had to retake them. With the new technology they can tweak the image, improving its brightness or contrast. The technologists cannot alter the digital x-ray, just make it easier to read.
Gone is the bulky x-ray filing system. After time limits for keeping reference x-rays are expended, the picture archival communication system (PACS) will store images on a computer hard drive. Technologists can also burn images onto a CD or laser print them onto film that looks much like old x-ray film.
PACS is a time-saver for the technologists and means improved safety for patients. Because the techs need enter the patient information only once, there is less chance that retyping or copying will alter the data.
The radiology information system (RIS) allows physicians to place electronic orders with an electronic signature. The techs retrieve those orders and take the x-ray. The radiologist reads it, and the RIS holds his/her report, the results of the x-ray. Now it can be included in the electronic medical record.
?All this wouldn?t have been possible if Rumford Hospital weren?t a part of the Central Maine Medical Family,? says Gale Hill, Medical Imaging Manager. ?And having the same equipment at all three hospitals will lend more consistency of care within CMMF.?

11/19/2009