NEWS ROOM

DENNISON - On the sunny afternoon of Thursday, May 10, 2012, Trinity Hospital Twin City physicians and staff gathered with community leaders to commemorate the one year anniversary of the sponsorship by Sylvania Franciscan Health, the health and human service ministry of the Sisters of St. Francis of Sylvania, Ohio.  

Joe Mitchell, President, Trinity Hospital Twin City opened the celebration by welcoming the nearly 150 people in attendance.  “I am reminded of the quotation by the singer and politician Jimmie Davis – ‘Sunshine is a welcome thing.  It brings a lot of brightness.’  Each of you are that sunshine for Trinity Hospital Twin City,” shared Mitchell.  “Thank you for what you have done to make this first year a successful one.”

The service proceeded as Sister Dorothy Jayne Krupp, OSF, Hospital Director of Mission Integration and Pastoral Care, called those in attendance to prayer stating, “This is the day that the Lord has made.  Let us be glad and rejoice in it!”  The Immaculate Conception School Choir performed the hymn entitled “All Creatures of Our God and King”.   Judy Garver, MT (ASCP), Senior Laboratory Technician and member of the hospital’s Mission Integration Committee provided a reading from “The Little Flowers of St. Francis” and “How St. Francis Tames the Wild Doves.”

Father Anthony Lonzo of Immaculate Conception Church then offered a blessing of the new statue of St. Francis of Assisi that is placed in a flower bed outside of the hospital’s main entrance.  Father Lonzo was assisted by Robby Donohoe and Nick Love, altar servers of the church.

Other guest speakers included were Jim Pope, President & CEO of Sylvania Franciscan Health (SFH), Sister Nancy Surma, OSF, SFH Vice-President of Mission Integration and Blair Hillyer, President of the Trinity Hospital Twin City Foundation.  Dennison Mayor Tim Still also shared a proclamation from his office that proclaimed “May 10, 2012 to be Trinity Hospital Twin City Day.”

Guests were invited to enjoy light refreshments provided by Trax Diner directly after the ceremony in the St.  Francis Conference Center. 

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DENNISON—Trinity Hospital Twin City is one of 70 rural health providers across the nation that will receive a grant to provide direct health care services to their communities. The funding announced on May 2, 2012, by HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius will be used to meet a broad range of health care needs in rural areas, from health promotion and disease prevention to expanding oral and mental health services.

“Access to quality and affordable health care should not be determined by where you live,” said Secretary Sebelius. “These grants are a continuation of our effort to ensure that rural providers are able to meet the needs of their communities.”

Trinity Hospital Twin City will receive $375,000 over a 3-year project period to provide an innovative multi-agency approach to reduce the number of overweight and obese adults in Tuscarawas, Carroll, Harrison and Holmes Counties, Ohio.  The project will allow Trinity Hospital Twin City’s Fit for Life promising practice model to be replicated by a consortium of non-profit agencies to demonstrate the viability of the Fit for Life program as a future best practice model. The consortium includes the following agencies: Carroll County Health Department, Harrison Community Hospital, Holmes County General Health District, and Trinity Hospital Twin City (lead agency). The grant funding is distributed through the U.S. Health & Human Services’ Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the primary federal agency for improving health care access for people who are uninsured, isolated or medically vulnerable.

“We feel privileged to have this chance to continue the good work of our Fit for Life program,” noted Dr. Tim McKnight, Fit for Life Program Director and a Board Certified Family Practitioner. “I look forward to working with our partner agencies to help them offer Fit for Life in their communities. Together, we have the potential to positively change the lives of many people in our four-county area.”

Thanks to two previous 3-year grants from HRSA totaling $750,000, the Trinity Hospital Twin City Fit for Life outreach grant project has provided training to more than 1,2000 adults through  wellness classes designed to help participants learn how to lead healthy lifestyles.  In the Fit for Life Program, individual instruction is provided by Dr. McKnight, who is a Board Certified Family Practitioner. The 12-week curriculum emphasizes realistic lifestyle changes, resulting in enhanced levels of health and fitness.

“Rural areas face unique issues and challenges,” said HRSA Administrator Mary Wakefield, Ph.D., R.N. “But that makes them ideal for developing innovative solutions and creating models that can be replicated elsewhere. As rural communities forge these systemic improvements, they set an example for the delivery of high quality health care regardless of where one lives across the United States.”

For more information about Fit for Life, visit www.trinitytwincity.org or call (740) 922-7471.

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Trinity Hospital Twin City in Dennison, OH has been selected for recognition at a meeting to be held at the White House on Tuesday, May 1, 2012. Dr.

Timothy McKnight, M.D., a board certified family practitioner, will accept the award in Washington, DC and meet with members of the President¹s cabinet to discuss unique health care challenges in rural areas and the role of the Affordable Care Act in addressing those challenges.

The hospital is one of 70 recipients of a federal grant to improve health services in rural areas.  A total of $375,000 from the Rural Health Care Services grant program will be spread out over a three year period to help reduce the number of overweight and obese men, women and children of all ages in Tuscarawas, Carroll, Harrison and Holmes Counties, Ohio.

The White House meeting, hosted by Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack, is part of ongoing efforts by the White House Rural Council <http://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/eop/rural-council>  to focus on the vitality of rural America and enhance the ability of Federal programs to meet the needs of Americans living in small towns.  The meeting includes rural physicians, dentists, nurses, mental health providers and hospital administrators from across the country.

DENNISON – The Trinity Hospital Twin City Employee Auxiliary will be hosting a steak fry Saturday, April 28^h at the Knights of Columbus Hall located at 122 Grant Street in Dennison.  This fundraiser will provide something for everyone with a steak dinner to be served from 5:00-7:30 pm, live music provided by the band System beginning at 8 pm until 11 pm, and a Chinese Auction (including themed baskets such as an Italian basket, gardening basket, movie basket) and 50/50 drawing taking place throughout the entire evening.

                 Tickets are being sold at the hospital until Friday, April 27^th and the cost is $16.00 per person.  A limited number of tickets will be available at the door.  There will be a $5.00 cover charge for anyone who would like to attend just to listen to the band.  For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Melinda Rainsberger at (740) 922-7450, extension 2219.

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DENNISON—In an effort to prevent medication abuse and misuse, Trinity Hospital Twin City, The Anti-Drug Coalition of Tuscarawas County and the Tuscarawas County Sherriff’s Department have teamed up to hold a Medication Take-Back Day on Saturday, April 28 from 10 am to 2 pm.  During that time, area residents are welcome to drop off their unused and/or expired prescription and non-prescription medications at Trinity Hospital Twin City’s front parking lot at 819 North First Street. No questions will be asked.

                The event is part of the 2012 National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day sponsored by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Trinity Hospital Twin City has agreed to be a drop-off site for the public to safely and legally dispose of unwanted and unused prescription drugs. According to the DEA, Americans participating in the National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day last year turned in more than 377,086 pounds of unwanted or expired medications for safe and proper disposal.

                This event is for the disposal of residential and household medications only. Medications will only be accepted between the hours of 10 am and 2 pm. Items for disposal cannot be accepted before or after these times. The Tuscarawas County Sherriff’s Department will have uniformed officers at the collection location and will have oversight responsibility for the collection process and will handle and store the medications gathered during the event. At the conclusion of the Medication Take-Back Day, the Tuscarawas County Sherriff’s Department will transport and oversee the proper disposal of the medications collected.

                “We are pleased to work with the Anti-Drug Coalition and Sherriff’s Department to help prevent prescription drug abuse and misuse and to keep medications from becoming part of our waste system,” explained Joe Mitchell, President of Trinity Hospital Twin City. “We want to do our part to keep our community safe.”

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DENNISON – Trinity Hospital Twin City staff gathered to commemorate Earth Day by planting a native Dogwood tree near the hospital’s front parking lot on Friday, April 20, 2012 at 10:00 AM.  A special Earth Day reading and prayer were offered as part of the brief ceremony.

“The hospital Swing Bed Program staff and I wanted to plant a tree not only to recognize that we are committed to helping our patients get on the road to recovery but also to help recover resources that have been provided to us by Mother Earth,” shared Dr. Galen Durose, II, MD, Director of the Swing Bed Program at Trinity Hospital Twin City.

Trinity Hospital Twin City’s Swing Bed Program provides medical care, occupational therapy, physical therapy, wound care and other services to patients who need skilled rehabilitation services (after a hospital stay and/or surgery) before they transition home.  For more information about the hospital’s Swing Bed Program, call (740) 922-7450, ext. 2239. 

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DENNISON—To accommodate requests from local community members, Trinity Hospital Twin City is inviting area residents to “Wake Up to Better Health” at a free healthy sleep mini seminar from 6 to 7 pm on Wednesday, April 25^th at the hospital’s first floor St. Francis Conference room. Those who attend will receive a free sleep apnea screening, healthy snacks, tour of the hospital’s sleep lab, educational information and the opportunity to hear from Jessica Stolz, a Certified Nurse Practitioner and Sleep Medicine Specialist with the hospital-owned Trinity Medical Group.

                Stolz and Trinity Hospital Twin City’s sleep medicine team consisting of Dr. Jennifer Ney, Board Certified Pulmonologist & Internist; Sara Black, Respiratory Therapist; and Jack Haga, Jr., Respiratory Therapist will all be available to explain why sufficient sleep is vital for good health. Stolz will also share tips for getting a better night’s sleep and describe why sleep apnea is a real problem with real solutions.

                “About 40 people attended this program last March, and we’ve had several calls from area residents requesting us to offer this mini seminar again,” shared Tiffany Poland, Trinity Hospital Twin City Director of Community Outreach. “Insufficient sleep is a problem that affects more than 28% of adults. According to the National Sleep Foundation, sleep impairment is linked as a contributing factor to motor vehicle crashes, industrial disasters, and medical and other occupational errors. In fact, according to Ohio State Highway Patrol statistics, there were 3,403 crashes involving sleepy drivers in Ohio in 2011.”

                Those who don’t get enough sleep are more likely to have chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, depression or obesity. Sleep insufficiency and poor sleep quality also can result from sleep disorders such as chronic insomnia, restless legs syndrome, sleep apnea or narcolepsy. Common symptoms of a sleep disorder can include excessive daytime sleepiness, loud snoring, awakenings for uncertain reasons, gasping or choking at night, restless sleep, irritability, poor memory, and/or morning headaches.

                “With sleep apnea and other sleep disorders, what you don’t know could hurt you,” explained Stolz. “We hope everyone will join us for this important event to learn more about healthy sleep since many of us either experience sleep challenges ourselves or know a loved one who does.”

                For more information or to register for the free “Wake Up to Better Health” healthy sleep mini seminar at Trinity Hospital Twin City, call (740) 922-7450, ext. 2219.

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DENNISON—To kick off National Sleep Awareness Week, Trinity Hospital Twin City is inviting area residents to “Wake Up to Better Health” at a free healthy sleep mini seminar from 6 to 7 pm on Wednesday, March 7^th at the hospital’s first floor St. Francis Conference room. Those who attend will receive a free sleep apnea screening, healthy snacks, tour of the hospital’s sleep lab, educational information and the opportunity to hear from Jessica Stolz, a Certified Nurse Practitioner and Sleep Medicine Specialist with the hospital-owned Trinity Medical Group.

                Stolz and Trinity Hospital Twin City’s sleep medicine team consisting of Dr. Jennifer Ney, Board Certified Pulmonologist & Internist; Sara Black, Respiratory Therapist; and Jack Haga, Jr., Respiratory Therapist will all be available to explain why sufficient sleep is vital for good health. Stolz will also share tips for getting a better night’s sleep and describe why sleep apnea is a real problem with real solutions.

                “We wanted to offer the community the opportunity to learn more about a problem that affects more than 28% of adults—insufficient sleep,” shared Tiffany Poland, Trinity Hospital Twin City Director of Community Outreach. “According to the National Sleep Foundation, which recognizes National Sleep Awareness Week from March 7^th through 13^th this year, sleep impairment is linked as a contributing factor to motor vehicle crashes, industrial disasters, and medical and other occupational errors. Those who don’t get enough sleep are more likely to have chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, depression or obesity.”

                Sleep insufficiency and poor sleep quality also can result from sleep disorders such as chronic insomnia, restless legs syndrome, sleep apnea or narcolepsy. Common symptoms of a sleep disorder can include excessive daytime sleepiness, loud snoring, awakenings for uncertain reasons, gasping or choking at night, restless sleep, irritability, poor memory, and/or morning headaches.

                “With sleep apnea and other sleep disorders, what you don’t know could hurt you,” explained Stolz. “We hope everyone will join us for this important event to learn more about healthy sleep since many of us either experience sleep challenges ourselves or know a loved one who does.”

                For more information or to register for the free “Wake Up to Better Health” healthy sleep mini seminar at Trinity Hospital Twin City, call (740) 922-7450, ext. 2219.

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DENNISON—Trinity Hospital Twin City recently expanded the outpatient services of its Cardiopulmonary Department to better serve patients with heart and lung conditions. The department now offers diagnostic tilt table testing and cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation.

            “Tilt table testing is used to evaluate patients who have experienced a loss of consciousness,” explained Jerod Roth, Director of Cardiopulmonary Services at Trinity Hospital Twin City. “In a tilt table study, the patient is secured to a table which is then mechanically tilted to an upright position. We monitor the patient’s pulse, blood pressure, electrocardiogram and blood oxygen saturation while the patient is left in a motionless standing position for 20 to 30 minutes. If the patient loses consciousness, a positive tilt table study has occurred which could indicate a cardiovascular disorder.”

            Cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation is also now being offered at Trinity Hospital Twin City. Those who have a doctor’s order are encouraged to call the hospital’s central scheduling phone line at 740-922-7405 to sign up for rehabilitation.  The hospital’s cardiopulmonary staff offers supervised rehab programs to help people with chronic breathing problems such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and to help patients recover from heart attacks, heart surgery and procedures such as stenting and angioplasty. The rehab programming provides education to help patients increase physical fitness, reduce cardiac symptoms and breathing problems, improve health, and reduce the risk of future problems, including heart attack.

            “Our cardiac and pulmonary rehab programs are setting tailored to the patient’s needs, and we monitor heart rate and blood pressure during physical activity,” noted Roth. “Later, patients are able to work up to more intense aerobic activity on a treadmill or exercise bike. We provide patients with the support and training they need to return to work or their normal activities and to manage their heart or breathing condition.”

            Trinity Hospital Twin City President, Joseph Mitchell, stated, “We want the community to know that we are committed to providing quality healthcare services locally. We are pleased to see our cardiopulmonary services expand to help those with heart or chronic breathing problems improve their quality of life and reduce their risk of experiencing further health problems.”

            For more information about cardiopulmonary services at Trinity Hospital Twin City, call (740) 922-2800.

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DENNISON—In recognition of February as American Heart Month, Trinity Hospital Twin City is hosting a free “Love Your Heart” event for area residents from 5 to 6 pm on Thursday, February 23^rd at the hospital’s first floor St. Francis Conference room. Those who attend will receive free blood pressure checks, heart healthy snacks, educational information and the opportunity to hear from Dr. Mohammad A. Jan, a Board Certified Cardiologist with the hospital-owned Trinity Medical Group.

                “We wanted to offer the community the chance to learn more about heart health,” shared Tiffany Poland, Trinity Hospital Twin City Director of Community Outreach. “Heart disease is the leading cause of death in our region, and we feel it is our hospital’s responsibility to educate the public and help save lives. We are also excited to provide the opportunity for people to meet and talk with our cardiologist.”

                Dr. Jan has over 35 years experience in providing heart care, and he specializes in EKGs, stress testing, echocardiography, holter monitoring and tilt table testing. He has earned distinction as a Fellow in the American College of Cardiologists. He has office locations within Trinity Hospital Twin City at 819 N. First Street, Dennison and at 232 Cross Street, Newcomerstown.

                For more information or to register for the free “Love Your Heart” event at Trinity Hospital Twin City, call (740) 922-7450, ext. 2219.

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NEWCOMERSTOWN—Trinity Medical Group, a physician practice that is owned and operated by Trinity Hospital Twin City of Dennison, recently opened a Newcomerstown office location at 232 Cross Street. The new location will make cardiology and general surgery services easily available to Newcomerstown area residents.

                Board Certified Cardiologist, Dr. Mohammad A. Jan, and Board Certified General Surgeon, Dr. Matthew W. Phillips, are now welcoming new patients. Dr. Jan has over 35 years experience in providing heart care, and he specializes in EKGs, stress testing, echocardiography, holter monitoring and tilt table testing. Dr. Phillips has more than 25 years experience in providing surgical care. His general surgical services include specializations in colonoscopy, hernia, breast disease, gall bladder and skin lesions.

                “We are excited to open this office at Newcomerstown to make cardiac and surgical care more convenient for area residents,” explained Eric Lundin, Trinity Medical Group Physician Practice Administrator. “Dr. Jan and Dr. Phillips are excellent physicians, and they are looking forward to meeting the healthcare needs in Newcomerstown.”

                Most insurances are accepted by Trinity Medical Group. To make an appointment to see Dr. Jan, call 740-922-0000. To make an appointment to see Dr. Phillips, call 330-364-8011.

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DENNISON—Trinity Hospital Twin City is pleased to announce the addition of three medical professionals to its active medical staff. Two nurse practitioners and one physician assistant are now helping to meet patient needs as part of the hospital-owned Trinity Medical Group.  The group provides primary medical care through its physician offices in Dennison, Dover, Gnadenhutten, Newcomerstown, and Uhrichsville.

                Holly Miller-Eshleman is a Certified Nurse Practitioner who specializes in family practice and has over 22 years experience as a registered nurse prior to completing her studies to become a nurse practitioner. Miller-Eshleman earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing at Goshen College in Goshen, Indiana, and her Master of Science Degree in Nursing at Franciscan University of Steubenville. She is currently welcoming new patients to the Trinity Medical Group offices located within the  hospital at 819 N. First Street in Dennison, and she resides at Dover with her husband and three children.

                Molly Pfeiffer is a Certified Physician Assistant who earned her Bachelor of Science Degree at Grove City College in Pennsylvania and her Master Degree as a physician assistant at Chatham University at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  Pfeiffer welcomes new patients to the Trinity Medical Group offices located at Suite 220 in the Oxford Medical Building at 340 Oxford Street in Dover. She resides at Stone Creek with her husband.

                Jessica Stolz is a Certified Nurse Practitioner who specializes in pulmonary and sleep medicine and has more than 12 years experience in the nursing field. She earned her Bachelor Degree from Fairmont State University in West Virginia and her Master of Science Degree in Nursing at Frontier School of Midwifery and Family Nursing at Case Western Reserve University at Cleveland. Stolz is a member of the American Sleep Association, Ohio Association of Advance Practice Nurses, Northeast Ohio Nurse Practitioners, COPD/Emphysema National Association and the Academy of Sleep Medicine. She resides at St. Clairsville. Stolz welcomes new patients to the Trinity Medical Group offices within the hospital at Dennison.

                “The demand for primary medical care has increased in the area, and we are pleased to add these skilled professionals to our team of caregivers,” remarked Joseph J. Mitchell, Trinity Hospital Twin City President. “With their knowledge and commitment to providing compassionate care, they will be an asset to the Trinity Medical Group and help our hospital continue to meet patient needs.”

                Trinity Medical Group accepts most insurances including Medicare and Medicaid. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call the Trinity Medical Group at 740-922-0000.

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DENNISON—Board Certified Gynecologist, Dr. Walter Randolph, MD, is now offering women’s health services at Trinity Hospital Twin City’s first floor specialty clinic. Women’s health services have not been available in the Twin City area since 2010.

                “Our hospital is committed to meeting the healthcare needs of area residents, and making women’s health services available locally is critical for us to meet the needs of the women who are living in our community,” explained Joseph J. Mitchell, Trinity Hospital Twin City President. “Dr. Randolph is a welcome addition to our active medical staff.”

                Dr. Randolph has more than 17 years experience in women’s health. He is a Fellow in the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and is also on the active teaching staff for the Northeastern Ohio University College of Medicine (NEOUCOM). Dr. Randolph welcomes new patients, and appointments can be made by calling (740) 922-7480.

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DENNISON—Trinity Hospital Twin City recently added three leaders to its management team. Jerod Roth and Debra Wilden were selected to fill open leadership positions in patient care departments, and Sister Dorothy Jayne Krupp was selected to assume the newly created position of Director of Mission Integration/Spiritual Care.

                Roth of Uhrichsville has been an active part of Trinity Hospital Twin City’s Cardiopulmonary Services staff for ten years and was recently named Director of Cardiopulmonary Services. Roth completed training at Jefferson Community College and is a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) and a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT). As Director of Cardiopulmonary Services, he will oversee department staff, provide patient care and manage the department’s many services including sleep lab studies, stress tests, pulmonary function tests, and more.

                Wilden of Freeport has more than 23 years experience and was recently named Manager of Emergency Services. Wilden is a Certified Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN), and an Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-A) who earned her Associate’s Degree from Belmont Technical College and her Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Phoenix. Before joining Trinity Hospital Twin City’s management team, Wilden worked as a nursing supervisor at another regional hospital. As Manager of Emergency Services, Wilden will work closely with patients and emergency physicians, nurses and other emergency personnel to assure all emergency patients receive quality, compassionate care.

                Sister Dorothy of The Sisters of St. Francis of Sylvania Ohio recently joined Trinity Hospital Twin City to become the Director of Mission Integration/Spiritual Care, a new leadership position at the Catholic, not-for-profit hospital. Sister Dorothy has more than 50 years of ministry experience and earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Mary Manse College and her Master’s Degree in Pastoral Ministry from SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary. Most recently, she served as a Pastoral Associate at St. Michael Parish in Monroe, Michigan. Sister Dorothy now resides at Dennison, and in her new role at the hospital, she will lead the hospital in fulfilling Sylvania Franciscan Health’s core values of reverence, service and stewardship as the values apply to personal attitudes and actions, to relationships and co-workers, and to the services rendered to patients and others.

                “We are excited to add this qualified group of leaders to our hospital’s management team,” shared Joseph J. Mitchell, Trinity Hospital Twin City President. “Having strong leaders will allow our hospital to continue to grow and achieve success by meeting the healthcare needs of the communities we serve.”

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DENNISON – Registration is now taking place for Trinity Hospital Twin City’s popular Fit for Life classes.  There is a limited amount of space available in the class which begins on Tuesday, January 17^th, in the hospital’s first floor St. Francis Conference Center, located at 819 N. First Street.  Fit for Life is a 12 week session of classes that meets weekly for an hour, and classes will meet on Tuesdays from 5:30 – 6:30 P.M.

    The Fit for Life classes consist of in-depth nutrition and fitness information with a focus on behavioral change.  Some of the topics covered during the 12 week session include the following: The Wellness Choice, Nutrition & Your Health, Eat to Live, Flexibility Fitness, Stress Management, and Disease Prevention & Healthy Aging.  Participants enjoy a hands-on learning experience that includes learning to read food labels, viewing and understanding correct portion sizes, holding a replica of 5 pounds of fat, trying on a 20 pound fat vest and more. 

    Dr. Timothy McKnight, Board Certified Family Practitioner and Project Director of Trinity Hospital Twin City’s Fit for Life program, is the primary instructor throughout the class session which is supplemented with professional guest speakers that include the following:  Coach Dick Hartzell, founder of JumpStretch, Inc.; Dr. Nina Kucyk, Psychologist, Trauma & Loss Counseling; Dr. Mike Jakubowski, Chiropractor, Twin City Chiropractic; and other members of the Healthy Community Outreach team.

    Registration for Fit for Life is open to any adult who resides in Tuscarawas, Carroll, Harrison or Guernsey Counties.  The cost to join Fit for Life is $79.00 per person (less than $7.00 a week) and covers blood work to be completed before and after the class and a binder full of information.  Thanks to a grant from the US Health Resources and Services Administration Office of Rural Health Policy, Fit for Life classes can also be offered in a worksite setting for a nominal fee per employee. 

    To register for the Fit for Life session that begins on January 17^th or for more information, please call (740) 922-7471.  Over 1,000 community residents have “graduated” from Fit for Life over the past five years.  Many participants who have completed the program have lost weight and lowered their blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels and have reduced or eliminated medications. 

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DENNISON—Officials from the Twin City Hospital Foundation (a separate 501(c)3 non-profit organization with the mission to fund healthcare purposes within the Twin City area) announced today that they have surpassed their annual campaign fundraising goal. In November, the Foundation Board, made up of community leaders from the Twin City area, set a goal to raise at least $50,000 to help Trinity Hospital Twin City purchase a digital mammography machine in early 2012.

                “As of today, I am happy to report that we have collected just over $72,000 during the past month,” shared Blair Hillyer, President of the Twin City Hospital Foundation. “On behalf of the Foundation, I want to thank all those who have contributed so far. It’s a privilege to be part of a community of people who care so much. Even in these challenging economic times, it is humbling to see folks finding ways to contribute to this worthy cause which has the potential to help so many area women.”

                Trinity Hospital Twin City officials estimate that the new digital mammography machine will cost approximately $350,000, and donations to the annual Foundation Giving Campaign are still welcome. “Donations, in any amount, are appreciated and can go a long way toward helping our community hospital better meet the area’s healthcare needs,” noted Hillyer.

                The hospital hopes to purchase the digital mammography machine by spring 2012. The new machine will improve mammography image clarity, allow for the easier transmission of images to physicians and specialists and lower average radiation doses without compromising the accuracy of a patient’s diagnosis. Mammography screening is considered one of the best forms of protection against breast cancer because breast cancer is often treatable when found in the early stages.

                Donations to the Twin City Hospital Foundation campaign are tax-deductible and can be made by sending a check made out to the foundation to PO Box 7, Dennison, Ohio 44621. For more information, call (740) 922-7450, ext. 2219.

DENNISON-Trinity Hospital Twin City is pleased to announce the recent expansion of its radiology imaging services. The hospital recently began offering advanced surgical imaging services made possible through the purchase of a new C-Arm machine. Additionally, the hospital is now providing MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans thanks to a partnership with Alliance Imaging.

            “We are pleased to offer these vital services to the community,” remarked Dr. Jeff Bory, MD, Medical Director of the hospital’s imaging department. “The new C-Arm machine and the MRI machine supplied through Alliance Imaging represent the best in healthcare technology and produce sharp, clear, digital images that make it easy to diagnose patient problem areas.”

            Purchase of the C-Arm machine was made possible thanks to grant funding from the Rosenberry Foundation, Ohio Department of Development’s Appalachian Regional Commission and the Tuscarawas County Community Foundation. “We are thankful to the grant funders for their help in assuring that Trinity Hospital Twin City can continue to offer state-of-the-art technology to meet the needs of our patients,” noted Joseph J. Mitchell, President, Trinity Hospital Twin City.

            The C-Arm machine is a portable fluoroscope that produces digital images of bodily functions while in motion such as allowing a physician to view radiation dye flowing through a patient’s gall bladder and intestinal area to determine where gall stones are located. C-Arms are used most often for general surgeries such as the removal of gall bladders and gall stones, special surgical procedures that enable a physician to place an IV port directly into one of the patient’s arteries to assure that IV medicines go directly where needed, surgical procedures designed to locate blood clots, minimally-invasive sinus surgeries using balloon technology, podiatric (foot) surgeries, orthopedic surgeries and during spinal injections for pain management.

            Dena Putnam, Director of Imaging Services for the hospital, shared, “The physicians have been very satisfied with the quality of the images produced by the new C-Arm machine. The C-Arm also has the potential to enhance the hospital’s orthopedic services in the future.”

            MRI scans are also now available at Trinity Hospital Twin City two evenings each week using the mobile MRI services of Alliance Imaging. Alliance Imaging is the largest provider of advanced outpatient diagnostic imaging services in the United States.  The Espree Open Bore MRI from Alliance Imaging features the largest bore opening available which allows the hospital to comfortably accommodate a variety of patients. “Most MRIs have bore openings of 60 centimeters,” explained Dr. Bory. “Our MRI  bore opening is larger than others at 70 centimeters and can accommodate patients up to 550 pounds. “

            For more information about imaging services at Trinity Hospital Twin City or to schedule an appointment, call (740) 922-7450, ext. 2233.

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DENNISON—Residents of the Twin City region of Tuscarawas County can sleep a little easier now that Trinity Hospital Twin City has officially opened its new sleep lab study suites which feature roomy queen-size Sleep Number beds for added patient comfort. Sleep study services had not been available in the Twin City area since the former Twin City Hospital discontinued the services in 2010. Over the past few months, Trinity Hospital Twin City has updated its sleep lab technology and created space for two new sleep study suites in the hospital’s modern medical center building.

            “We want the community to know that sleep lab services have resumed here at Trinity Hospital Twin City and are being offered in a comfortable, home-like environment utilizing state-of-the-art technology,” explained Joseph Mitchell, President of Trinity Hospital Twin City. “Our caring professionals are prepared to work with patients and their doctors to discover how to obtain a quality night’s sleep.”

            Trinity Hospital Twin City’s sleep lab staff includes a respiratory therapy team led by Registered Respiratory Therapist Jack Haga, Jr. of Tappan Lake and Board Certified Sleep Disorder Physician Specialists from Trinity Health System of Steubenville. The hospital offers two spacious sleep lab study suites that include all the comforts of home including a flat-screen TV, queen-sized Sleep Number beds, and a private bathroom.

            Sleep lab studies are used to detect sleep disorders such as sleep apnea. Common symptoms of a sleep disorder can include excessive daytime sleepiness, loud snoring, awakenings for uncertain reasons, gasping or choking at night, restless sleep, irritability, poor memory, and/or morning headaches. Potential patients must consult with their physicians to determine if a sleep study is needed.  Appointments are available at night and during various times of the day to accommodate the needs of patients who work nights. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Trinity Hospital Twin City at 740-922-2800.

            “Our goal is to make the patients as comfortable as possible,” shared Haga Jr. “Many patients have said that they enjoyed the Sleep Number beds so much that they wanted to stay longer.”

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DENNISON—Trinity Hospital Twin City recently lauded the efforts of 28 employees, and two physicians. Having served a combined total of 295 years as hospital employees and/or physicians, the honorees were presented with tokens of appreciation during a recognition ceremony hosted by the hospital’s administration.

            Trinity Hospital Twin City Director of Human Resources, Lauren Castello, shared, “At a time when much of the U.S. workforce spends five years or less at the same company, we are grateful to have so many loyal employees. Their dedication and work ethic have made our successful transition possible.”

            Recognized for 35 years of service before her retirement became official late this year was Susan Walters of Uhrichsville. Nanette Miller of Tuscarawas was recognized for 30 years of service, and Catherine Crouse of Gnadenhutten received recognition for 25 years of service. Jennie Reichman of Wainwright was honored for 15 years of services.

Employees recognized for 10 years of service included the following: Bianca Love of Carrollton; Connie Devore and Mark Mitchitell of Dennison; Susan Adams of Freeport; Sheryl Hunter of Midvale; Dr. Vijay Bhairappa and Dr. Timothy McKnight of New Philadelphia; Jeffrey Hutton of Scio; and Kip Benline, Jody Golec, Connie Hudack and Carol Love of Uhrichsville.

Fourteen Trinity Hospital Twin City employees were recognized for five years of service. They include the following: Lise Baker of Baltic; Elaine Seeds of Bowerston; Kendra Berni, Sherri Downs and Karrissa Knowles of Dennison; Tiffany Poland and Mindi Sanders of Gnadenhutten; Charles Moore of New Philadelphia; Kelly Bowe and Lisa Fansler of Port Washington; and Brenda Ditcher, Janet McGuire, Lana Scalambrino and Bridget Western of Uhrichsville.

            Trinity Hospital Twin City employs over 220 area residents and is one of the largest employers in southern Tuscarawas County.

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“Trinity Hospital Twin City Names Mission Integration Team”

DENNISON - Trinity Hospital Twin City has recently named its Mission Integration Team.  Currently under the direction of Sister Nancy Surma, OSF (Order of St. Francis), PhD, Vice President of Mission Integration for Sylvania Franciscan Health, the team consists of nine hospital employees representing various hospital departments.  The team’s purpose is to advise and assist in promoting the mission and core values of service, reverence and stewardship throughout the hospital.  The team members help articulate, communicate and integrate the history, beliefs and values of Trinity Hospital Twin City; plan for celebrations that reflect mission and values; and recommend religious symbols to be used throughout the building. 

Employees serving on the team include the following:  Joni Baumberger, RRT, of Uhrichsville (Cardiopulmonary); Becky Carpenter of Dennison (Accounting); Lauren Castello of Uhrichsville (Human Resources); Linda Cox, RN, of Dennison (Surgery); Judy Garver, MT (ASCP), of New Philadelphia (Laboratory); Sherry Marty of Dennison (Registration); Janet McGuire of Uhrichsville (Trinity Medical Group); Mark Mitchitell of Dennison (Plant Engineering); and Pam Stewart, LPN, of Gnadenhutten (Nursing Services).

“I am so impressed with the team’s willingness to share ideas in support of our mission and values,” shared Sister Nancy Surma.  “We saw the reflection of our values here at this hospital before it became a part of the Sylvania Franciscan Health ministry and that influenced our decision to welcome Trinity Hospital Twin City into our family of service providers.” 

The first task of the Mission Integration team was to identify locations for and styles of crosses and/or crucifixes to display around the hospital.   The cross style chosen will feature the words-- peace, faith, hope and love.  This particular cross is made by the Sisters of St. Francis in Sylvania, Ohio, and the crosses are currently under production in Alverno Studio.  The clay is placed in a mold, and the mold is fired in a kiln.  Once the piece has cooled, glazes will be applied and it will be fired a second time before the cross is completed.

Other tasks that have been accomplished by the mission integration team include naming the hospital’s newly renovated conference and education space the St. Francis Conference Center, planning the Feast of St. Francis that was held on October 4^th which included prayer services and refreshments for employees as well as a dedication of the new conference center.  The team has also been challenged to come up with a new, larger space for the chapel within the hospital and an outside space for the hospital’s swing bed patients to be able to enjoy fresh air. 

Events being planned for the upcoming year include a 1 year celebration of being Trinity Hospital Twin City and a celebration of 100 years of caring and service to the community with a theme of “For I Know the Plans I Have for You”. 

“For the past several years, many of us here at Trinity Hospital Twin City have been praying for our hospital, and we feel that the opportunity to be a part of the Sylvania Franciscan Health system in an answer to that prayer,” explained team member Sherry Marty of the Registration Department. “It’s such a blessing to be a part of this mission integration team and be able to put our faith into action in order to better serve our community and our fellow employees.” 

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“Trinity Hospital Twin City Volunteers to Host Benefit Fair Friday, November 11”

DENNISON—Trinity Hospital Twin City’s United Volunteer Auxiliary welcomes the public to a Vendor’s Fair this Friday, November 11 from 10 am to 4 pm at the hospital’s first floor St. Francis Conference Center and Specialty Clinic lobby area. A portion of the proceeds from this first-time event will benefit the hospital.

            “We felt this event would provide the perfect opportunity for the community to come get some of their Christmas shopping done ahead of time without the stress of battling the crowds at the stores,” explained Jan Thomas, event organizer and Vice-President of Trinity Hospital Twin City’s United Volunteer Auxiliary. “The Vendor’s Fair is also a real win-win for shoppers because they can find nice gifts at reasonable prices and help out the hospital at the same time.”

            The Vendor’s Fair will include about twenty local vendors who sell everything from traditional home party companies to crafts, candies, wellness products, baskets, cosmetics, purses, jewelry and more. Additionally, the hospital volunteers will sell raffle tickets for special prizes and also award door prizes throughout the event.

Trinity Hospital Twin City Welcomes Two New Faces to Medical Group

DENNISON-Trinity Hospital Twin City is pleased to welcome two new professionals to its hospital-owned Trinity Medical Group. Dr. Mohammad Jan, MD and Dr. Alicia Mills, MD are currently welcoming new patients.

            Dr. Jan is a non-invasive cardiologist who is Board Certified in internal medicine, nuclear cardiology and cardiovascular diseases. He has also earned the prestigious distinction of being named a Fellow in the American College of Cardiology. Dr. Jan has more than 35 years experience in the medical field and has relocated to Dennison from Aspirus Keweenaw Cardiology Institute at Wausau, Wisconsin.

    Dr. Jan resides at Dennison and welcomes new patients to his office at the Trinity Hospital Twin City Specialty Clinic. Appointments can be scheduled by calling (740) 922-0000.

Dr. Mills is a Board Certified pediatrician and member of the American Academy of Pediatricians. She has more than 4 years experience as a pediatrician and is relocating to Dover from the Margaret B. Shipley Child Health Clinic at Canton, Ohio.

    Dr. Mills resides at Dover with her husband and three children, and she welcomes new patients to the Trinity Medical Group’s Dover office at 340 Oxford Street, Suite 220. Call (330) 364-8011 to schedule appointments.

    Dr. Timothy McKnight, MD, Board Certified Family Practitioner and Trinity Hospital Twin City’s Chief of Medicine, noted, “The medical staff is excited to welcome these new professionals to our team of caregivers. Together, we can work to secure the best possible health outcomes for our patients.”

    The new physicians join ten other providers at the hospital-owned Trinity Medical Group including physicians from the hospital-based offices: Galen Durose, MD; David Hartman, MD; Jose Martinez, MD; Tim McKnight, MD; Jennifer Ney, MD; Emmanuel Noche, MD; and Jennifer Thomas, CNP; Uhrichsville office: Vijay Bhairappa, MD; Gnadenhutten office: Deborah Scott, CNP and Dover office: Kindra Browning, DO; and Matt Phillips, MD. 

    Trinity Medical Group accepts most insurance plans as well as Medicare and Medicaid. To schedule an appointment or for more information, call (740) 922-0000 or visit www.trinitytwincity.org.

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“Trinity Hospital Twin City Announces New President”

DENNISON - Joseph J. Mitchell, has been named the new President of Trinity Hospital Twin City effective November 28. Trinity Hospital Twin City, a 25-bed critical access hospital located in Dennison, Ohio, was acquired by Sylvania Franciscan Health in May of this year and has been under the expert guidance and leadership of Interim CEO Michael Zilm and Interim CFO Lorna J. Morrow.

“We’re very grateful to Michael and Lorna for their diligence during these past months of transition,” said Trinity Hospital Twin City Chair Dennis Wolters. “And we’re confident that Joe Mitchell, with his strong leadership skills and deep understanding of the strategic, operational and financial aspects of healthcare management, will be invaluable to our mission.”

Newly named President Mitchell has over 20 years of executive and senior level healthcare operations and clinical management experience with expertise in physician relations, facility growth through expansion of existing services and implementation of new services, Lean and quality improvement systems, and development of middle and front line management. In his most recent position as CEO of both River Valley Medical Center (formerly Dardanelle Hospital) in Dardanelle, Arkansas, and Eureka Springs Hospital in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, he significantly increased net patient revenue and brought both hospitals to profitability within a short time. Mr. Mitchell has also held executive management positions at Holdenville General Hospital in Holdenville, Oklahoma, and North Metro Medical Center in Jacksonville, Arkansas, and was state coordinator for 30 home health agencies in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

According to Jim Pope, FACHE, President and CEO of Sylvania Franciscan Health, “Joe brings with him a wealth of experience both working within a larger health system and as the CEO of two critical access hospitals. These experiences combined with Joe’s personal style make him a perfect fit for our faith-based organization. We look forward to his arrival.”

Mitchell holds a Master of Science Degree in Health Services Administration from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from the University of Central Arkansas in Conway. He is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives, the Health Care Compliance Association, and is a licensed Registered Nurse in the state of Arkansas.

“I feel like I am joining an outstanding organization with a bright future,” stated Joseph Mitchell.  “My family and I are excited to become involved in the greater Twin City area.”

As president of Trinity Hospital Twin City, Mr. Mitchell will be responsible for the day-to-day operation and growth of the hospital. Trinity Hospital Twin City is a member of Sylvania Franciscan Health, the health and human services organization of the Sisters of St. Francis of Sylvania, Ohio. Sylvania Franciscan Health’s member organizations are located in Ohio, Texas and Kentucky and include six hospitals, seven long-term care facilities, four assisted living facilities, independent senior housing, a counseling center, and a long-term shelter for victims of domestic violence.

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Media Release—For Immediate Release                                            October 10, 2011

“Trinity Hospital Twin City Opens Seasonal Flu Shot Clinics October 17^th”

DENNISON – Trinity Hospital Twin City will begin seasonal flu shot clinics Monday, October 17, 2011 from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM in the hospital conference room located next to the specialty clinic waiting area. Those wishing to receive the seasonal flu vaccine will need to park in the back parking lot and enter the building through the side entrance; the conference room is located down the hall on the left hand side.  No appointment is necessary.   Participants need to be 18 years of age or older.  Those covered by a traditional or managed care plan of Medicare or Medicaid can receive their shots at no cost provided that they bring their benefit cards to the clinic.  The shots are being made available for $25, paid via cash or check at the time of service, for all others.  Additional seasonal flu shot clinic dates are as follows, Wednesday, October 19^th from 5:00 – 7:00 PM and Monday, October 24^th and Wednesday, October 26^th from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM in the same location.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the best way to prevent the seasonal flu is to receive the flu vaccine.  The flu season can begin as early as October and last as late as May.  People who are at high risk for serious seasonal flu complications should receive a flu vaccine.  Some examples of people who fall into the high risk category are elderly, young children, people with chronic health conditions and people working in close contact with the public.

By receiving the seasonal flu vaccine and performing good health habits you will have less of a chance of suffering common flu symptoms such as fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose and muscle aches.  The CDC recommends the following good health habits for prevention:  avoid close contact, stay home when you are sick, cover your mouth and nose, clean your hands and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

Staff members of the hospital’s Trinity Medical Group will be conducting the flu shot clinic.  Anyone with questions about eligibility or about the clinic should call

(740) 922-0000.

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News Release—For Immediate Release                                             October 12, 2011

“Trinity Hospital Twin City Invites All Area Women to be ‘In the Pink’ Next Week”

DENNISON—In recognition of October as National Breast Cancer Awareness month, Trinity Hospital Twin City is inviting all area residents to be “in the pink” and join the hospital at some special events during the week of October 17^th. Throughout the week, many hospital employees and physicians will don pink gloves while caring for patients and sharing breast health education tips. Featured events of the week include a health fair and free and low-cost women’s health screenings.

            From 5 to 7 pm on Tuesday, October 18, the public is invited to attend the “In the Pink” health fair at Trinity Hospital Twin City’s new St. Francis Conference Center on the first floor of the facility at 819 N. First Street. From 5 to 6 pm, attendees will enjoy complimentary refreshments, learn about breast health and women’s screenings, and sign up to win door prizes. At 6 pm, Dr. Jennifer Ney, a breast cancer survivor and Board Certified physician from the Trinity Medical Group, will speak about her experience, Mr. David Maley, a Susan G. Komen Pink Tie Guy, will present a short talk about supporting those who are battling breast cancer and Lori Dallecheisa, Occupation Therapist, Certified Mastectomy Fitter and Certified Lymphedema Therapist from Medi-Wise Pharmacy in Newcomerstown will make recommendations on products to help patients live with breast cancer. All breast cancer survivors will then be recognized with a small gift. At 6:45 pm, a candlelit walk will take place around the outside of the hospital building to honor those who are currently battling breast cancer and to remember those who have battled breast cancer.

            The “In the Pink” health fair at Trinity Hospital Twin City is being made possible thanks to a grant from the Northeast Ohio Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation and the hospital’s United Volunteer Auxiliary. Registration is not required for this free event; however, those wishing to be acknowledged as survivors are asked to RSVP by calling 740-922-7471 by noon on Tuesday, October 18. “This is our first year to host this event, and we hope to have a great turnout,” shared Tiffany Poland, Director of Community Outreach. “We encourage everyone to wear something pink to demonstrate unity while we combat breast cancer through education, awareness and survivor recognition together.”

            On Thursday, October 20, Trinity Hospital Twin City and Trinity Medical Group      will conduct free pap tests and mammography screenings for women over age 40 who are uninsured and meet income guidelines. Information about the screenings is available by calling the Trinity Breast & Cervical Grant Program at (800) 921-5151 or by attending “In the Pink.” On Friday, October 21, reduced-cost women’s health screenings (including a clinical breast exam, pap test and bone density screening) will be offered for just $40 at the Trinity Medical Group offices on the hospital’s second floor. These reduced-cost screenings are open to all uninsured or underinsured women regardless of income level, and appointments can be made by calling (740) 922-0000.

            “Women tend to take care of everyone else before they think to take care of themselves,” noted Jennifer Thomas, a Certified Nurse Practitioner at Trinity Medical Group. “We invite them to come and let us take care of them by scheduling all their annual screenings during one convenient visit.”

            Hospital volunteers will also host three fundraisers throughout the week to raise money for breast cancer awareness and education. On Thursday, October 20 from 6 to 9 pm, Trinity Hospital Twin City’s United Volunteer Auxiliary will host a pink-themed card party at Grace United Methodist Church, Uhrichsville. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 740-922-7450, ext 2202.  On Friday, October 21, the hospital’s employee volunteer auxiliary will host a pink bake sale from 8 am to noon and will have a raffle drawing for the chance to win a Longaberger Breast Cancer Ribbon Basket and mug. 

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News Release—For Immediate Release                                                                                                October 6, 2011

Contact: Tiffany Poland, Director of Marketing & Community Outreach

                Trinity Hospital Twin City, (740) 922-7471, tpoland@trinitytwincity.org

“Bright Future Ahead for Trinity Hospital Twin City”

DENNISON—Thanks to the firm foundation set by the core values of the Sylvania Franciscan Health system, Trinity Hospital Twin City will mark its five-month anniversary of operations with much to celebrate and a positive future outlook.  Sponsored by the Sisters of St. Francis of Sylvania, Ohio, Trinity Hospital Twin City assumed operations of the former Twin City Hospital on May 10, 2011. Guided by the core values of reverence, service and stewardship, the Catholic, not-for-profit hospital’s leaders, physicians and staff wasted no time in initiating the positive changes necessary to strengthen Trinity Hospital Twin City’s ability to serve the community.

                In reverence of the healthcare facility’s history and the dedication of the employees, Trinity Hospital Twin City retained all of the 210 jobs and the majority of the employees of the former Twin City Hospital. Additionally, hospital leaders have continued all hospital operations and maintained the hospital’s commitment to delivering high quality health care.

New Services

                In the area of service, Trinity Hospital Twin City personnel have worked diligently to restore and enhance the hospital’s service offerings to the community with the goal of enabling area residents to receive the majority of their healthcare services locally.  In October and November, Trinity Hospital Twin City will offer five new services and add three providers to the Trinity Medical Group.

                The new services include the following:

• magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) testing,
• sleep lab testing,
• cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation,
• stress testing,
• and nuclear medicine.

                “We are pleased to offer these new services,” explained Michael Zilm, Interim CEO. “One of our first goals upon assuming ownership of the hospital was to bring back these critical services that were previously discontinued by Twin City Hospital.”

Enhanced Surgical Services

                In addition to the new services, Trinity Hospital Twin City’s surgical services will be enhanced thanks to the purchase of a new C-Arm imaging machine.   The C-Arm will provide enhanced imaging to surgical procedures requiring x-ray.

New Providers

Three new providers are also starting to serve the community this month as part of the hospital-owned Trinity Medical Group.

• Dr. Mohammad Jan, Cardiologist
• Dr. Alicia Mills, Pediatrician
• Holly Miller-Eshleman, RN,  MSN

                Dr. Mohammad Jan is a non-invasive cardiologist who is Board Certified in internal medicine, nuclear cardiology and cardiovascular diseases. He has also earned the prestigious distinction of being named a Fellow in the American College of Cardiology. Dr. Jan is currently welcoming new patients at his offices in the Trinity Hospital Twin City first-floor Specialty Clinic.

                Dr. Alicia Mills is a Board Certified pediatrician and member of the American Academy of Pediatricians. Dr. Mills is currently welcoming new patients at the Trinity Medical Group’s Dover office located at 340 Oxford Street, Suite 220.

                Holly Miller-Eshleman is a registered nurse who recently graduated with a Master of Science in Nursing degree from Franciscan University in Steubenville.  She will be sitting for the nurse practitioner certification exam in the near future.   Holly will be working with Dr. Tim McKnight, Board Certified Family Practitioner in the Trinity Medical Group offices located on the 2^nd floor of the hospital.

                Dr. Tim McKnight, Trinity Hospital Twin City’s Medical Staff President, stated, “The medical staff is excited to welcome the new physicians to our team of caregivers.  Together, we can work to secure the best possible health outcomes for our patients.”

Facility Improvements

                The hospital’s plant and engineering department has been making minor improvements throughout the hospital over the past few months.  The specialty clinic patient rooms and lobby, located on the first floor of the hospital, have recently received fresh paint and carpeting.  The largest renovation has been a newly created community education room, the St. Francis Conference Center, also located on the first floor.  This center is currently hosting the hospital’s Fit for Life classes and will be used for future community health events.

Community Contributions

                With the growth of services and providers, the hospital has invested more than $633,000 in new equipment and improvements since May.  The following equipment purchases would not have been possible without the funding support of local foundations and the hospital auxiliary.

• Appalachian Regional Commission                                           $35,000                 C-Arm  
• Rosenberry Foundation                                                               $35,000                 C-Arm
• Tuscarawas County Community Foundation                          $5,000                   C-Arm
• Trinity Hospital Twin City United Volunteer Auxiliary          $25,000                Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehab

                “We are very grateful to the community for their support during these first five months,” remarked Zilm. “We couldn’t have asked for a warmer welcome, and we are thankful to those who have supported us by using our services and making charitable contributions. We also want to thank our physicians, employees and volunteers. Without their hard work and passion for service, our progress over the past five months would not have been possible.”

Future Plans

“In the future, Trinity Hospital Twin City will continue to remain focused on providing excellent patient care and meeting the healthcare needs of the community,” Zilm commented. “The investments and strides made in the past five months have set the path for the hospital’s continued growth as the facility looks forward to naming a permanent CEO soon, recruiting additional physicians, certified nurse practitioners and making more investments in new hospital equipment in 2012.”

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Dennison – Dr. Tim McKnight, a Board Certified Family Practitioner from Trinity Medical Group, didn’t hesitate when he was asked by Tom Clift, local pee-wee football coach and President of the Northend Tigers (which includes students from the central and northern parts of Dennison) , to speak to the team’s football and cheerleading coaches about how to recognize heat exhaustion in young athletes.  In fact, on Thursday, July 29th, Dr. McKnight spoke to about 20 Northend Tiger pee-wee football and cheerleading coaches and volunteers during a seminar held at Trinity Hospital Twin City to provide education about overuse injuries, sprains/strains, heat exhaustion/heat stroke and concussions. 

“We had an incident last year where a coach was having the kids run, and I thought that one of the kids had had enough and was starting to exhibit signs of heat exhaustion,” shared Tom Clift.  “This year I decided, as the head coach, that we were going to do some education and that I was going to make it mandatory for all of the coaches reporting to me to attend.  We get the chance to coach the greatest game created; we want to do it right and we want to do it safe.” 

Dr. McKnight stressed that hydration is especially important for young kids since they have immature cooling/dehydration mechanisms until they are 16 years of age.  Heat exhaustion is very common and can be recognized by the following symptoms: headaches, weakness, fatigue, nausea and vomiting.  Athletes suffering from heat exhaustion should drink ice water, sit in the shade or in an air-conditioned space and remove any wet clothing.  He urged the coaches to be vigilant in recognizing the symptoms because heat exhaustion can develop into heat stroke in a short period of time.  An athlete experiencing heat stroke has a broken cooling mechanism, and his/her skin will be hot and dry with a temperature of over 105.1 degrees and will be irritable.  This is a medical emergency, and ice should be applied to the head/neck, armpits and groin. The athlete should also be seen immediately by a physician. 

Coaches also need to be aware of overuse injuries which can include shin splints, jumper’s knee, shoulder bursitis and stress fractures.  If an athlete is experiencing these types of injuries, he/she will need to reduce his/her activity level and work with the school trainer to correct the mechanical defect which is causing the pain. 

Young children rarely have the explosive capacity to tear a muscle, tendon or ligament (sprain), but they can strain them through repetitive use.  If an athlete has a sprain/strain, he/she should avoid bracing or splinting the affected area.  Coaches should encourage walking, jogging and normal movement.  Kids should gradually progress their movements until they are at 95% capacity before returning to the sport. 

Additionally, Dr. McKnight shared the importance of recognizing the symptoms of a concussion. Those symptoms include headache, dizziness, vomiting, nausea, lack of coordination/balance, blurry vision, memory loss, confusion, irritability and restlessness.  Athletes diagnosed with a concussion must be symptom free and obtain medical clearance before returning to a sport due to the danger of second impact syndrome which can cause serious damage to the brain.

“I want coaches to be aware of the common injuries in young athletes that can be prevented and be able to recognize the symptoms,” commented Dr. McKnight after Thursday’s seminar.  “Ultimately, I want kids to have a positive experience with sports, to not get hurt or burned out at a young age so that they are active for life.”

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DENNISON-Trinity Hospital Twin City recently welcomed four new professionals to its management team by filling previously vacant positions. The moves represent the commitment of the locally-operated, not-for-profit hospital to provide quality leadership for the healthcare provider’s more than 210 employees.

            Josh Maxwell, who resides at Bolivar with his wife and son, was promoted from within the hospital to Director of Information Technology. Maxwell has more than six years experience in the computer technology field and possesses an Associate Degree in computer technology and a Bachelor Degree in Computer Science from Kent State University.

            Newly hired managers include Bonnie Andrews, a Registered Health Information Technologist (RHIT); Eric Durbin, a Registered Pharmacist (RPh); and Eric Lundin, a Fellow of the American College of Medical Practice Executives (FACMPE). Andrews, who resides at Tuscarawas with her husband, was named Director of Health Information. She earned her Associate Degree from Stark State College and has more than six years experience in the health information technology field.

            Durbin is Trinity Hospital Twin City’s new Director of Pharmacy. He has more than 16 years experience and received his Bachelor Degree at Ohio Northern University. Durbin resides at Sugarcreek with his wife, two sons and daughter.

            Lundin was hired to take the helm of the hospital-owned physician group, Trinity Medical Group, as Physician Practice Manager. Lundin earned his Bachelor Degree from Oregon State University, and his Master of Business Administration Degree from Marylhurst University. He has more eight years experience in physician practice management and resides at North Canton with his wife and two sons.

            “We are pleased to have managers of this caliber at Trinity Hospital Twin City,” shared Michael Zilm, hospital Interim CEO. “They will be excellent additions to our talented team of management professionals who are committed to providing exemplary leadership for our employees and exceptional care for the people of the community.”

            Trinity Hospital Twin City is a ministry of Sylvania Franciscan Health, sponsored by The Sisters of St. Francis of Sylvania Ohio. The Catholic hospital offers a full range of acute patient care services. For more information, visit www.trinitytwincity.org or call (740) 922-2800.

 “Twin City Hospital Completes Sale to Franciscan Services Corporation”

DENNISON – Twin City Hospital announced the successful completion of hospital sale to Franciscan Services Corporation today.  Under the terms of the final purchase agreement as approved during bankruptcy proceedings held on Monday, May 9^th, Franciscan Services Corporation (FSC) has purchased Twin City Hospital.  Twin City Hospital will continue to operate as a 25-bed critical access hospital, but will now be known as Trinity Hospital Twin City sponsored by the Sisters of Saint Francis in Sylvania, Ohio.

“This is the best possible outcome for Twin City Hospital,” shared Frank Swinehart, Twin City Hospital Interim CEO from Quorum Health Resources (QHR).  “Franciscan Services Corporation knows what it takes to successfully manage critical access hospitals. Their guiding principles align very well with the spirit of this community; I believe they can do nothing but thrive here.” 

“I would like to thank Navigant Capital Advisors (NCA) for their role in the sale of the hospital,” Swinehart continued.  “I truly believe that we could not have found a better match for this hospital and the community.” 

Throughout Twin City Hospital’s process of financial reorganization, QHR provided interim management services and NCA served as the financial advisor to the Board of Trustees.

“The Twin City Hospital Board of Trustees would like to thank QHR for their knowledge and professionalism that has seen the hospital through this challenging time,” stated Doug Ross, President, Twin City Hospital Board of Trustees.  “We would also like to thank all of the hospital employees and physicians; they remained focused and continued to deliver high-quality care throughout this process,” shared Ross.  “We know this past year has been tough, and we sincerely appreciate their dedication and loyalty to their work and to our community.”

“We especially appreciate the support of the community and the generosity of our donors to raise funds to help the hospital over the past several years. Without their support, we wouldn’t have made it to today,” commented Ross.  “Lastly, I would like to thank all of the members of the Twin City Hospital Board of Trustees for coming together and making some difficult decisions this past year.  This sale ensures quality healthcare for the residents of the Twin Cities and surrounding area for many years to come and that has ultimately been our goal.”

Twin City Hospital currently employs 210 full-time and part-time employees.  Trinity Hospital Twin City will be assuming all of the hospital’s employees, including the Twin City Medical Group physicians, and will maintain their original dates of hire.

FSC member organizations located in Ohio, Texas and Kentucky now include six hospitals, seven long-term care facilities, four assisted living facilities, independent senior housing, a counseling center, and a long-term shelter for victims of domestic violence.  For more information about FSC, visit www.fscsylvania.org .

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DENNISON—During a special volunteer appreciation open house held on Thursday, April 28, Twin City Hospital honored 140 members of one or more of the following hospital volunteer groups: Board of Trustees, Employee Auxiliary, Ministerial Association, Twin City Hospital Foundation and the Twin City Hospital United Volunteer Auxiliary. Additionally, seventeen volunteers were awarded service pins in recognition of their years of dedicated service to the hospital.

                Volunteers who received service pins for anniversary milestones earned in 2009 and 2010 included Pat Bente of Dennison and Shirley Gowins of Uhrichsville for five years of service; Nancy Dupper of Dennison and Nita McDermott of Gnadenhutten for 15 years of service; Betty Colvin of Uhrichsville and Marsha Henderson of Scio for 20 years of service;  Evelyn Dooley of Uhrichsville, Barb Besozzi of Scio and Martha Rolli of Tuscarawas for 25 years of service; Arline Norris and Iris Kerschbaumer of Uhrichsville for 30 years of service; Jane Henderson and Margie Zanon of Uhrichsville, Sharon Kohler and Rena Roseberry of Dennison, and Shirley Kleski of Gnadenhutten for 35 years of service; and Mary Russon of Uhrichsville for 40 years of service.

                Twin City Hospital United Volunteer Auxiliary President Emillie Blackwood of Gnadenhutten was elected to receive the Volunteer of the Year award.  Now in her 18^th year as a volunteer at Twin City Hospital, Blackwood was surprised and humbled by the award, and said, “All the volunteers should get this award. Volunteerism is the heart of Twin City Hospital. After all, the hospital was founded by volunteers, and we’re certainly thankful for the tireless work and dedication of all of the volunteers.”

                Lauren Castello, Twin City Hospital Director of Human Resources & Volunteer Services, agreed, “We are tremendously grateful to our volunteers for making so much of what we do here possible. They do everything from transporting patients in wheelchairs to raising money for hospital equipment, and Twin City Hospital couldn’t thrive without their support.”

                Community members of all ages are welcome to join the Twin City Hospital United Volunteer Auxiliary. Opportunities are available to volunteer for as little as one shift a month to several shifts a month. Officers of the United Volunteer Auxiliary include President Emillie Blackwood of Gnadenhutten, Co-Vice Presidents Barb Besozzi of Scio and Jan Thomas of Gnadenhutten, Treasurer Betty Colvin of Uhrichsville and Co-Secretaries Helen Gordon of Tippecanoe and Dorothy Lint of Tuscarawas.

                The group’s next fundraiser will be a card party to be held on Thursday, May 5 from 6 to 9 pm at the Grace United Methodist Church fellowship hall. Tickets are $7 per person and can be purchased by calling 740-922-7450, ext. 2202. For more information about volunteerism at Twin City Hospital, call the aforementioned phone number or e-mail humanresources@twincityhospital.org.

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GNADENHUTTEN- Certified Nurse Practitioners Deborah Scott and Jennifer Thomas are hosting a women’s health screening, Tuesday, October 26, 2010 from 9 AM – 5 PM at Twin City Medical Group’s Gnadenhutten office located at 110 Walnut Street.  The screening will include a clinical breast exam, pap smear, rectal exam and bone density screening for $40.00.  Mammograms are also available at an additional cost.  A limited number of mammograms will be scheduled free of charge dependant on qualifying income levels.  Women wishing to participate in this health screening day need to reserve their time slot by calling (720) 254-9443. 

“Women tend to take care of everyone else before they think to take care of themselves,” shared Jennifer Thomas, CNP.  “We invite them to come and let us take care of them by scheduling all their annual screenings during one convenient visit.”

DENNISON—Twin City Hospital launched a redesigned website today at www.twincityhospital.org to provide a more user-friendly interactive site for area residents to obtain current information about the hospital’s services, events and news topics. The redesigned website was created by local website design firm, RMR Development of Dover, who worked in tandem with the hospital’s marketing staff over the past several months.

Twin City Hospital’s new website features an interactive events calendar, in-depth information about hospital services and physicians, tips for healthy living, service price list, and more. Additionally, the site includes a news room feature that includes up-to-date information about the hospital. “In light of the changes that have taken place at Twin City Hospital during the past few months, we felt it was important to have a current website to allow access to accurate hospital information 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” explained Tiffany Poland, Director of Marketing for Twin City Hospital.

“Our last major website redesign took place in 2004, and with the opening of our new building in 2009, this update was long overdue,” said Poland. “Our hospital was one of the first in the region to have a website in the mid 1990s thanks to the support of our development council, and it’s only fitting that we strive to continue to be pioneers in creating modern, user-friendly websites where community residents can find everything they need to know about our hospital.”

The hospital’s website redesign was funded thanks to a donation from the Twin City Hospital Foundation, a separate not-for-profit 501(c) 3 entity. “We are tremendously grateful to the hospital volunteers who created our first website designs and to the foundation for making this latest redesign possible to allow our website to reflect the state-of-the-art facility that we have now,” noted Poland. 

DENNISON-Twin City Hospital has initiated financial reorganization by voluntarily filing for debt protection through Chapter 11 Bankruptcy. There will be no interruption of hospital patient care services and physician offices will remain open.  Twin City Hospital will remain a full-service, acute care facility throughout the financial and organizational restructuring process, and the 24 hour a day provision of quality healthcare will continue.

                “This was a tough business decision to make, but it was necessary as the first step toward successful reorganization of Twin City Hospital,” explained Frank Swinehart, Interim CEO, Twin City Hospital. “Our Board of Trustees, physicians and staff have been working tirelessly to address the issues the hospital is facing.  We especially appreciate the support of the community and the generosity of our donors to raise funds to help the hospital regain financial footing. Without their support, we wouldn’t have been in a position to attempt this reorganization.”

                “Filing for protection provides us with the time necessary to make positive changes toward securing Twin City Hospital’s viability,” noted Doug Ross, President, Twin City Hospital Board of Trustees. “As we near the hospital’s 100 year anniversary of providing community healthcare, we will use this time of reorganization to provide a new foundation for the continuation of care for many years to come.”

                The reorganization process will begin with a 90-120 day time period during which hospital administrators will determine what can ultimately be paid to creditors. The full financial and reorganizational restructuring process could take up to 12-18 months.

DENNISON—On Sunday, October 10, 2010, 52 golfers competed in the Twin City Hospital Benefit Golf Outing at Big Bend Golf Course at Uhrichsville. Thanks to the support of the golfers and generous hole sponsors, the benefit brought in $16,700 for the hospital’s Million Now Campaign which has generated more than $350,000 in donations from the community to help the not-for-profit facility regain its financial footing.

                “We are grateful to all the local businesses and golfers who came out in support of Twin City Hospital’s Million Now Campaign,” shared Greg DiDonato, volunteer chairperson for the campaign. “We were fortunate to have beautiful weather for the golf outing, and we are very pleased to have raised more funds to help the hospital remain in the community.”

                “I just want to thank all the sponsors, golfers and volunteers who participated in the golf outing,” noted Dan Shaver, golf outing organizer and Twin City Hospital Director of Telecommunications. “Without their support, the event couldn’t have been a success.”

                Co-sponsors of the golf outing were Beacon Pointe, Bowerston Pointe and Dover-Phila Federal Credit Union. Gold level sponsors for the golf outing included Amberwood Manor, The Doctor’s Company, Dover Hydraulics, Quorum Health Resources, Truck Sales & Service and Smith Ambulance Service. The winning team included Dustin Bollon, Derrick Castello, Casey Pittis and Jerrod Potts.

DENNISON—Twin City Hospital employees are excited and for good reason since the finishing touches are currently being put into place at the construction site of the new medical center. Scheduled to be complete in early February and open to the public in March, the nearly $12 million facility will include cardiopulmonary, emergency, laboratory, radiology and surgical services as well as inpatient rooms. Even better than having a new facility to house nearly all patient care functions is to have a hospital specifically designed with patient convenience in mind.

Alberici Healthcare Constructors, the construction management firm chosen by Twin City Hospital, is an award-winning company that is known for designing state-of-the-art hospitals that are easy for patients and visitors to navigate. Twin City Hospital CEO, Marge Jentes, explained, “Everything about the new medical center will be completely patient-focused to allow them to receive services more efficiently and with greater comfort. From the newly created and convenient parking lot to the larger lobby and waiting area, the new medical center will be equipped to give patients and visitors the best experience possible.”

Twin City Hospital Director of Development, Rick Rieger, added, “Patient flow in the new medical center will be outstanding. There is only one hallway on the first floor for outpatients to have to travel from the registration area to the centralized cardiopulmonary, laboratory and radiology waiting room; and across the hall is the surgery waiting room. It will be so easy for patients and visitors to find what they need. On the inpatient floor, we have 19 private rooms and 3 semi-private rooms, which can be used by patients with family members (such as a parent of a child) staying with them.”

Not only will the new Twin City Hospital medical center be user-friendly, but patients will also notice that technology will be improved. The new facility will be equipped with completely digital, new equipment and technologies from electronic medical records to surgical equipment. Test results can be digitally transferred from Twin City Hospital to physician specialists just about anywhere. “Patients who travel to specialists outside of the area will be able to get all of their testing done at Twin City Hospital, and we can easily send the results back to those specialists,” shared Jentes.

Nearly all patient services will be located within the new medical center, and the hospital’s existing building will continue to house geriatric psychiatry services through Behavioral Services of America on the third floor, and the first two floors will be renovated for use as medical and administrative offices.

To showcase the new medical center, Twin City Hospital will soon announce the date of a public open house to be held in early March. As the public begins to use the new facility, it is expected that the increased patient volume will make it possible for the hospital to add new jobs later in the year. The hospital also looks forward to adding another pediatrician to its active medical staff this summer.

Although Twin City Hospital is growing, community support is still needed. “The generosity of the communities has been wonderful,” shared Rieger. “Our current fundraising total is $5,141,899. We greatly appreciate all of our donors; however, we still need to raise funds for the new building and new equipment. Donations will still be accepted, and there are still some room sponsorships and bricks available.” For more information about making a donation, contact Rieger at (740) 922-1242, or send your tax-deductible donation to the hospital at 819 N. First Street, Dennison, Ohio 44621.Adult volunteers are also needed to help staff the new coffee bar and gift shop in the new medical center. To sign up to volunteer at the new medical center, call Lauren Mills, Director of Volunteer Services, at (740) 922-7450, ext. 2202.

The building of the hospital’s new medical center was only part of Twin City Hospital’s success story over the past year. Thanks to a generous grant from the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northeastern Ohio, the hospital’s Pediatric Wellness Program, led by physical therapist Sally K. Bonner, was able to begin a Fitness Just For You project to help children with special needs learn to exercise while having fun at the same time.Additionally, Twin City Hospital’s Healthy Community Outreach Program, led by Board Certified Family Practitioner Dr. Timothy McKnight, has seen over 350 area adults “graduate” from its Fit for Life classes. The classes, made possible by a grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration Office of Rural Health Policy and a consortium of local agencies, help participants learn to make healthy lifestyle choices. Participants are often able to lose weight, lower their cholesterol levels and gain higher energy levels as a result of Fit for Life. Later this year, the hospital hopes to begin offering Fit for Life classes at area businesses.