Medical Answer Book 2012-2013

2 Medical answer Book™ | 2012-13 Edition | Appen Newspapers, Inc. Medical

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Appen Newspapers, Inc. | 2012-13 Edition | Medical answer Book™Medical 3

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We’re honored to serve youIt’s an honor to be recognized as the nation’s leading hospital for maternity and newborn care.

Look a little closer and you’ll discover that Northside performs more surgeries and diagnoses and

treats more breast and gynecologic cancer than any other hospital in Georgia. While people choose

Northside for our expertise, they also know us for our exceptional compassionate care.

Visit us online at www.northside.com


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Welcome to the 2012/13 Medical Answer Book, a local guide to health and medical services in North Fulton and South Forsyth. This is our fourth annual issue and we encourage you to contact us if your medical or health-related business missed advertising in this issue and would like to make sure you don’t miss the 2013 edition.

We owe special thanks to Kellie Jureka who organized, compiled, created and otherwise is responsible for this edition. We at Appen think she did a stellar job and want to congratulate her for yet another excellent edition of this publication.

A new feature in this edition is the addition of Q&A articles on relevant medical topics brought to you by local doctors – many of whom you may recognize. At Appen Newspapers we feel we do “local” better than anyone, and the addition of these features is yet another value added for our readers, and our advertisers.

In every edition of this publication we include “Medical/Health Locator Maps” which we hope will prove to be helpful to you in finding and selecting services close to where you live. Of note, the lists on the medical maps are not comprehensive but they are substantial. We have also included a new “Time line” that I think is novel and may be of use to many of you in keeping track of immunizations, testing and such items.

Healthcare, along with technology and education, are the three growth engines in our North Atlanta market. We can count on them to provide for and foster strong economic growth, development and thousands of new jobs in the North Atlanta area into the future. The proximity to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport as well as the large number of area hospitals, The Emory School of Medicine and the Center for Disease Control form substantial anchors to a broad and expanding health-related economic base.

We have made every attempt assure the accuracy of the content in this publication, however, if you are aware of any errors or have any suggestions, please feel free to contact us at 770-442-3278 x 128 or email Kellie at [email protected].

PUBLISHERSRay & Christina Appen

ADVERTISINGPhyllis AndertonHans AppenHelen BausanoLinda CohenLynn DansonMike DormanSusan HernandezJennie KushnerJune MeltzerSara O'ConnorJade Rogers

[email protected]

PRODUCTIONKelly BrooksDavid BrownKellie JurekaGeoffrey Thurow

EDITORIALHatcher HurdJonathan CopseyAldo Nahed Candy WaylockKatie VanBrackle

[email protected]

RAY APPENPublisher

Reproduction of any content is strictly prohibited without prior written permission from the publisher. All efforts have been made to verify content. The Answer Book publishes the North Fulton Edition in the fall, The Medical Edition publishes at the beginning of the year.

319 N. Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009 www.northfulton.com

TO ADVERTISE IN THE 2013 ANSWER BOOK

CALL: 770-442-3278 x100

to your 2012-13 Medical Answer Book®Welcome Content

Paleo Diet

Medi-Weighloss Clinic

Ask the Expert: Sports Medicine

Ask the Expert: Cancer in Women

Medical Maps

Ask the Expert: Balloon Sinuplasty

Hosptial Profiles

Lea Bay's Quest

Ask the Expert: Venous Disease

KeyWorth - Worth Banking On

Comprehensive Digestive Healthcare

Ask the Expert: Hearing Aids

Ask the Expert: Braces

Ask the Expert: Hormone Replacement

Vaccine Timeline

Ask the Expert: Coronary Artery Disease

Ask the Expert: Botox

Ask the Expert: Laser Therapy

Ask the Expert: Ballet

Ask the Expert: Low Testosterone

Medical Research

Ask the Expert: Osteoporosis

Ask the Expert: Car Seats

Prostate Cancer Overview

Ask the Expert: Booster Seats

Ask the Expert: Sleep Apnea

Ask the Expert: Thyroid Problems

Ask the Expert: Urgent Care

Dancing into Health

Senior Home Care

Fire and Rescue Contacts

Email additions/corrections for the 2013 edition to [email protected].

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The Paleo approach to eating has been growing in popularity. Athletes were among early adopters of the diet of meat, poultry, fish, veggies, some fruit, and lots of healthy fats, but all kinds of people have now come to the table.

Many nutrition experts object to the Paleo diet

because it excludes all dairy, grains, beans, and peas. They warn that too many calories come from protein and fat and not enough from carbohydrates, but those who adopt the diet are enthusiastic about its benefits.

Dr. Matthew Mechtenberg, DO says, “The changes I have experienced have led me to

promote these dietary changes to many of my patients as the first step in medical treatment, and the results they have seen have been equally amazing… diet can make some drastic improvements to people’s health – I look at food as medicine now.”

Dr. Luc Readinger, MD says the diet is safe and healthy for the following reasons: “First, it is based on whole, unprocessed foods, thus making it very nutrient-dense. Second, it is anti-inflammatory. Third, it helps

to regulate insulin metabolism. And fourth, the (approach) eliminates most of the foods known to cause allergies and intolerances.”

Dallas and Melissa Hartwig, authors of the New York Times best selling nutrition book It Starts With Food, point out that vegetables and meat include even more vitamins, minerals, nutrients, and fiber than dairy, grains, and legumes, so people following the Paleo diet get everything their bodies need to thrive.

A personal trainer told me about the Harwigs and their”Whole30” version of the Paleo diet in 2010. I was frustrated that I was still fat and not getting the results I wanted after years of serious effort in the gym, so I committed to following the diet for 30 days.

After two weeks of eating this new way, I was sleeping better. Then I started to set new personal records lifting heavy weights in the gym. I felt great and my energy levels stayed even across the day. Even my mood improved. After a few months, my annual blood work showed big improvements with my good cholesterol UP, and my bad DOWN! And I was losing weight. Nothing dramatic, but typically two pounds per month. The two pounds per month continued for 15 months and I lost 30 pounds!

My old diet was not a bad one. I frequently ordered vegetable plates in restaurants

and rarely ate fast food. I ate a lot of Healthy Choice soups, oatmeal, and Fiber One cereal with soymilk, I got most of my vegetables from the frozen food section of the grocery store and ate a lot of frozen salmon too.

On the old diet I exercised vigorously for years; competed in marathons and lifted weights for a number of years, I was still a bit chubby in my 40’s UNTIL I changed my eating habits.

My experience with the Paleo diet inspired me to start cooking again. I launched a recipe blog dedicated to Whole30-complianat meals in 2010 – Whole Life Eating (http://www.wholelifeeating.com). The site has become an important guide to simple, tasty meals for health-conscious mothers who want something they can make quickly and without a lot of fuss.

The Paleo diet works because it nourishes our bodies deeply, satisfying the hungers and cravings that wind up sabotaging conventional diets. In contrast, weight loss programs that focus on calorie restrictions often work short-term, but fail over the long term because they do not adequately address nutrition.

The Paleo Diet

Tom Denham is the Senior European Stocks Analyst at Elliott Wave International. He has been a

computer consultant, psychotherapist, editor, pastor, and a few other things

over the years. His current interests are eating, yoga, and kettlebell lifting.

• 1 ripe avocado• 1 lime (mine was juice in a

bottle)• 2 cans of tuna (packed in

olive oil)• 1/2 small sweet yellow onion• 1 or 2 tablespoons of

pickled jalapenos• 1 big dill pickle (mine were

Bubbies)• 1 handful of dried

cranberries (infused with apple juice)

• Ground coriander• Red chili powder• Garlic powder• Salt

Tuna Salad with Avocado, Onion, Jalapenos, Pickles

and Dried CranberriesDirections:Halve avocado, remove pit,

and separate flesh from skin. Mash avocado flesh into a paste in a mixing bowl with a fork. Add the juice of lime lemon and mix juice in with avocado. Add tuna with all the oil in the cans. Finely chop onion and add to bowl. Add dried cranberries. Add a light dusting of red chili powder and a generous dusting of ground coriander, garlic powder, and salt. Mix ingredients. Taste and add more spices as needed. Serve over fresh vegetables, lettuce, etc. Enjoy!

* Recipe courtesy of www.wholelifeeating.com


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“Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in our country,” explained Dr. Susan Wheatley, Medical Director at the Johns Creek location of the clinic that is changing—and saving— people’s lives. With its program of healthy eating and exercise, custom-tailored exactly for you, Medi-Weightloss Clinics® is achieving the type of success people have long hoped the medical community would provide.

“A body mass index greater than 30 puts you at increased risk for developing heart disease,” added Nurse Practitioner Dawnelle Steding. “Many other serious health problems arise out of carrying excessive weight: among them diabetes, hypertension and high blood pressure.”

Patients are often surprised at how quickly— and safely— they lose weight and dependence on medications.

“A lot of patients tell us they don’t want to spend $300 in medication costs every month—or more,” added Dr. Wheatley. “Others have recently been to their family doctors who want them to either go on medications, or lose weight. Most people would prefer to lose the weight than to have to deal with medications which normally have a lot of side effects.”

Linda, who lost 50 pounds in 6 months told a typical Medi-Weightloss Clinics ®success

story. “ I just turned 63 and have been overweight ALL my life. I retired and gained 30

pounds, tipping the scale at 200 pounds. I had high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and Type II diabetes. Medi-Weightloss Clinic ®supported me throughout. I totally eliminated two medications, and reduced three others. It’s never too late and you’re never too old!”

“Because our program is based on the latest medical knowledge and technology, it addresses underlying health issues,” pointed out Dr. Susan Wheatley who opened the Medi-Weighloss® Clinics franchise in Johns Creek. “Our personalized program, supervised care and use of weight loss medications and dietary supplements gives Medi-Weightloss Clinics ® the edge over other programs.”

“It doesn’t matter if you’re 16 or 70,” said Dawnelle Steding, NP, “whether you want to get on the floor and play with the grandchildren or go to college feeling great, our goal at Medi-Weightloss Clinics® is to help you lose weight quickly and safely. And to get you healthy while you’re doing it.”

Medi-Weightloss Clinics Saves Lives—One Patient at a Time

paid advertisement

Ask the Expert for advice on sports medicineQ: What are some common

sports injuries that you see in your practice?

A: In a typical day, an orthopaedic surgeon can see several different sports injuries such as rotator cuff tear injuries, ACL tears, meniscal injuries, sprains and strains of all joints, labral tears, shoulder injuries, golfer and tennis elbow, broken bones, ankle injuries, groin and hip injuries, and achilles tendon tears. The list of sports injuries can go on and on.

Q: If you have a sports injury, what can you do about it?

A: The best thing you can do immediately is R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, C o m p r e s s i o n , and Elevation). If you do not get relief by doing this then you should speak to your primary

care physician or orthopaedic surgeon.

-Ron Hall, M.D.

Q: What are common shoulder injuries?

A: There are many activities such as tennis and heavy gardening that can damage the rotator cuff. The rotator cuff tendon is vulnerable to injury in individuals over the age of 40 years due to diminished elasticity of the tendon. Minor trauma such as a ground level fall or lifting a heavy box can damage the shoulder. Repetitive muscle contractions from overhead activity can lead to inflammation and micro-tears of the tendon which can ultimately cause significant structural damage.

The initial treatment is to relieve the inflammation and irritation of the rotator cuff tendons and bursa. Rest takes the form of activity modification which means stopping the offending activity such as sports. As the pain subsides with everyday activity, then one must begin a strengthening program to

rehabilitate the rotator cuff. These exercises are performed below shoulder level usually with rubber tubing. Once strength has returned and pain has resolved with normal daily a c t i v i t i e s , then you can resume sporting a c t i v i t i e s . There needs to be a gradual resumption of sports to prevent recurrence of symptoms due to the weakness that has occurred.

-Angelo DiFelice, M.D.

Q: What are common knee injuries?

A: Some common knee injuries include Ligament tears and strains (ACL, MCL, PCL, and LCL), Cartilage injuries (meniscus tears), as well as Arthritis.

There are many proactive

ways to prevent knee problems. Maintaining normal body weight decreases stress across the knee and decreases risk of injury. Maintaining a strength training program that focuses on quadriceps and hamstring strengthening also protects the knee. Knee braces during athletic activities also act like an added “ i n s u r a n c e policy” against injury. And finally, less i m p a c t f u l e x e r c i s i n g , such as biking, s w i m m i n g , and elliptical, put less stress across the knee and typically allows for improved long term function.

-Irfan Ansari, M.D.

Medi-Weightloss Clinics® Johns Creek6385 McGinnis Ferry Rd., Ste. 202Johns Creek, GA 30005www.mediweightlossclinics.com


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paid advertisement

Ask the Expert for advice on cancer in womenQ: What are the most common cancers in

women?A: Cancer is a leading killer among all

Americans, regardless of gender or ethnicity. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women. Most women patients are always surprised to learn, though, that the second and third most common cancers in women affect both men and women -- lung cancer and colon cancer! Several other cancers occur only in women, including ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, and cervical cancer.

Q: Which cancers are preventable and how do you screen for them?

A: Excellent screening tests are available for screening for two of the three most common cancers: mammography and a clinical breast exam for breast cancer, and colonoscopy for colon cancer. The Pap smear is an excellent screening test for cervical cancer. The United States does not have any nationally recommended screening tests for ovarian cancer or lung cancer. As a result, ovarian cancer and lung cancer are often more advanced in people when they are diagnosed and can be more deadly.

Q: How has cancer screening changed for women in the past decade?

A: Breast cancer screening relies on clinical breast exam performed by a primary care provider

and regular mammograms typically starting at age 40. Some screening centers, use digital mammography, which is advanced technology to detect abnormal areas in the breast compared to older x-rays. Breast MRI can also help to take a “closer look” at areas that appear abnormal on a mammogram without having to get a biopsy.

Cervical cancer screening has improved with the addition of testing for HPV (human papilloma virus) along with a Pap smear. Women who are infected with HPV are at higher risk for cervical cancer and should be monitored more closely, and this can now be tested in addition to a pap smear for women over the age of 30.

Finally, colon cancer screening with a colonoscopy, typically starting at age 50, has become much more widely available than it was before. Colonoscopy has greatly improved colon

cancer detection rates.Q: What exactly is a Pap smear?A: During a Pap smear, a physician uses a

small brush to obtain some cells from the cervix. These cells are sent to a lab and examined under a microscope to make sure they appear normal. They are also tested for the virus HPV if the HPV test is indicated. Depending on the patient, normal Pap smears can be followed up yearly or even every three years.

Q: What is the one biggest thing I can do to prevent cancer?

A: The best thing you can do for preventing cancer is to quit smoking -- or never start smoking in the first place! Smoking is strongly associated with lung cancer and has been shown to increase rates of other cancers, as well. Other than not smoking, routine screening guided by the advice of your primary care physician is one of your best defenses against cancer!

Dr. Raju is a doctor at Gwinnett Clinic, located at 475 Philip

Blvd., Lawrenceville. You can contact her at 770-995-3300.


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East of 400Medical & Seniors Guide

Dentists1. Atlanta Dental Spa – 1875 Old

Alabama Road, Suite 130, Roswell – 770-998-3838 – www.atlantadentalspa.com

2. Children’s Dental Zone – 3719 Old Alabama Road #400, Alpharetta – 770-777-1222 – www.childrensdentalzone.com

3. Christy Haffner DMD Pediatric Dentistry – 3300 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta – 770-777-9400 – www.drchristyhaffner.com

4. Dent1st Dental Care – 9775 Medlock Bridge Road #I, Johns Creek – 770-476-9595 – www.dentfirst.com

5. Esthetic Dental Solutions – 2650 Holcomb Bridge Road, Alpharetta – 678-352-1333 – www.estheticdentalsolutions.com

6. Golsen Family Dentistry – 3400 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta – 770-667-0669 – www.golden.com

7. Grady Dental Care – 10710 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek – 678-957-0770 – www.gradydentalcare.com

8. Imagix Dental – 11125 Jones Bridge Road, Ste 200, Alpharetta – 770-596-0529

9. Johns Creek Dental Creations – 9590 Medlock Bridge Road #B, Johns Creek – 770-623-1427 – www.briangboothyp.com

10. Johns Creek Dental Excellence – 9925 Haynes Bridge Road #700, Johns Creek – 770-663-0333

11. Jones Bridge Dental Care – 11925 Jones Bridge Road #200, Alpharetta – 770-772-0606 – www.1866mydentist.com

12. Mint 32 – 3005 Royal Blvd. South #150, Alpharetta – 770-417-0100 – www.mint32.com

13. North Bridge Dental – 10955 Jones Bridge Road #129, Alpharetta – 678-319-0210 – www.wizforteeth.com

14. Old Milton Dental – 4165 Old Milton Parkway #190, Alpharetta – 678-

624-0370 – www.oldmiltondental.com

15. Sandra Vargas Dental Care – 5805 State Bridge Road, Suite L, Duluth – 678-474-4917 – www.smilegeorgia.com

16. Walls & Hendricks – 10700 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek – 770-813-0079 – www.shawnwallsdds.com

Dermatologists17. Aesthetic Specialty Centre – 1825

Old Alabama Road, Suite 201, Roswell – 770-393-9000 – www.aestheticspecialtycentre.com

18. Atlanta Dermatology, Vein and Research Center – 77800 Atlantis Place, Alpharetta – 770-360-8881 – www.dermandvein.com

19. Dermatology Center of Atlanta – 9900 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek – 770-497-0699 – www.dermatology-atlanta.com

20. Johns Creek Dermatology and Family Medicine – 6300 Hospital Parkway, Duluth – 770-771-6591 – www.johnscreekdermatology.com

21. North Atlanta Dermatology – 6610 McGinnis Ferry Road #200, Johns Creek – 770-814-8222 – www.naderm.com

Family HeatH22. Alpharetta Family Practice – 3400

Old Milton Parkway, Ste 585, Alpharetta – 770-475-3200

23. Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates – 3890 Johns Creek Parkway, Suite 250, Johns Creek – 678-775-0293

24. Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates – 3635 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suite 150, Duluth – 770-822-5560

25. Gwinnett Clinic – 10600 Medlock Bridge Road, Duluth – 770-418-0818 – www.gwinnettclinic.com

26. North Chattahoochee Family Physicians – 11459 Johns Creek Parkway, Johns Creek – 770-497-1555 – www.ncfpinfo.com

27. North Fulton Primary Care – 3400 Old Milton Parkway, Suite C270,

Alpharetta – 770-442-1911 – www.napc.com

28. Renew Health – 11550 Jones Bridge Road, #4, Alpharetta – 678-212-5100 – www.renewforhealth.com

Hospitals29. Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta

– 3795 Mansell Road, Alpharetta – 404-785-6880 – www.choa.com

30. Emory Johns Creek Hospital – 6325 Hospital Parkway, Johns Creek – 678-474-7000 – www.emoryjohnscreek.com

31. Gwinnett Medical Center – 3620 Howell Ferry Road, Duluth – 678-312-6800 – www.gwinnettmedicalcenter.com

32. Northside Hospital – 3400 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta – 770-667-4000 – www.northside.com

33. Regency Hospital – 11175 Cicero Drive, Alpharetta – 770-772-4345 – www.regencyhospital.com

meDical supply34. Mobility Express – 1580 Holcomb

Bridge Road Ste 3, Roswell – 770-998-9984 – www.mobility4all.com

oB/gyn35. Chattahoochee Gynecology – 6610

McGinnis Ferry Road, Johns Creek – 770-813-8742

36. Gifts from Grace OB/GYN – 6335 Hospital Parkway, Suite 210, Johns Creek – 770-622-5889 – www.gfgobgyn.com

37. Modern OB/GYN – 6335 Hospital Parkway, Suite 204, Johns Creek – 404-446-2496 – www.reyesobgyn.com

peDiatricians38. Children’s Medical Group – 6918

McGinnis Ferry Road, Suwanee – 770-622-5758 – www.cmg-pc.com

39. Dunwoody Pediatrics – 3300 Old Milton Parkway #200, Alpharetta – 770-664-9299 – www.dunwoodypediatrics.com

40. North Point Pediatrics – 11975 Morris Road #210, Alpharetta – 770-664-

0088 – www.northpointpediatrics.com

41. Pediatrics and Genetic – 3586 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta – 770-346-0132 – www.pediatricsgenetics.com

42. Pediatric Place – 9570 Nesbit Ferry Road #201, Alpharetta – 770-640-8119 – www.thepediatricplace.com

43. Pediatric Physicians PC – 1111 Alderman Drive, Alpharetta – 678-527-1555 – www.pediatricphysicianspc.com

44. Roswell Pediatric Center – 3400 Old Milton Parkway #C545, Alpharetta – 770-751-0800 – www.roswellpediatrics.com

senior care45. Cambridge Health Home Care

- 3060 Royal Blvd South #155, Alpharetta - (404) 935-5900 - www.cambridgehealth.org

46. Dependable Homecare Services - 5510 Commons Lane, Johns Creek - (770) 881-7101 - dependablehomecare.net

47. Easy Living Service, Inc – 120 Prospect Place, Alpharetta – 770-442-8664

senior living48. Benton House - 5050 Kimball Bridge

Road, Johns Creek - (770) 754-5446 - www.bentonhouse.com

49. Cambridge Memory Care - 4040 Webb Bridge Road, Alpharetta - (678) 266-4065 - www.cambridgeassistedliving.org

50. Dogwood Forest – 4125 North Point Parkway, Alpharetta – 678-366-7700 – www.dogwoodforestnorthpoint.com

51. Eden Brook - 4125 N Point Pkwy, Alpharetta - (678) 366-7700 - www.sunriseseniorliving.com

52. Gardens of Roswell - 9212 Nesbit Ferry Road, Alpharetta - (770) 992-0505

53. Ivy Hall Assisted Living - 5690 State Bridge Road, Alpharetta - (770) 814-0114

54. Ivy Hall at St. Ives - 5835 Medlock Bridge Parkway, Alpharetta - (770) 476-1777

55. Parc @ Duluth – 3315 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Duluth – 770-622-6880 – www.duluth.parccommunities.com

56. Sunrise of Ivey Ridge - 2950 Old Alabama Road, Alpharetta - (770) 475-6622 - www.sunriseiveyridge.com

57. Sunrise of Johns Creek - 11405 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek - (770) 814-0505 - www.sunrisejohnscreek.com

58. Tapestry House – 2725 Holcomb Bridge Road, Alpharetta – (770)-649-0808 – www.tapestryhouseassistedliving.com

surgery centers59. North Fulton Health Center – 3155

Royal Drive # 125, Alpharetta – 404-332-1958

urgent cares60. Atlanta Cancer Care – 3400 Old

Milton Parkway, Alpharetta – 770-770-1314 – www.atlantacancercare.com

61. Northside Urgent Care and Family Medicine – 11180 State Bridge Road, Alpharetta – 770-754-0788 – www.northsideurgentcare.com

62. Reagan Medical Center – 10160 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek – 678-387-1600 – www.reaganmedical.com

63. Sugerloaf Medical PC – 1300 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suwanee – 770-831-3018 – www.sugarloafmedical.com

ymca64. Alpharetta – 3655 Preston Ridge

Road, Alpharetta – 770-664-1220 - www.ymca.net

imaging center65. Johns Creek Diagnostic Center -

6920 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 300, Suwanee - 678-835-2299 - jcdcinfo.com

This is not a comprehensive list. Call Appen News at 770-442-3278 ext. 100 for info on 2013 issue.

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auDiology1. Optimal Hearing – 600 Houze Way,

Suite B-3, Roswell – 770-641-9087 – www.optimalhearing.com

cHilD services2. Giving Children a Chance -

11805 Northfall Lane, Suite 803, Alpharetta – 770-255-1018 – www.gcacofgeorgia.com

3. Jacob’s Ladder - 407 Hardscrabble Road, Roswell - 770-998-1017 – www.jacobsladdercenter.com

Dentists4. Alluring Cosmetic Dentistry –

800 Mansell Road, Roswell – 770-642-9900 – www.alluringcosmeticdentistry.com

5. Ivy Dentistry – 11775 Northfall Lane #107, Alpharetta – 770-619-2909 – www.ivydentistry.com

6. Roswell Family Dentist – 380 Market Place, Roswell – 770-998-6000 – www.roswellfamilydentistry.com

7. Roswell Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics – 10930 Crabapple

Road, Roswell – 678-352-1090 – www.kidshappyteeth.com

8. The Martin Dental Center – 45 W. Crossville Road, Suite 505, Roswell – 770-993-7472 – www.themartindentalcenter.com

9. Michael Leach – 4895 Windward Parkway, Suite 201, Alpharetta

– 770-521-8855 – www.thekidstoothdoc.com

10. Scott Flemming – 4895 Windward Parkway, Suite 100, Alpharetta – 770-475-4241

11. Stuart Coe Dentistry - 11775 Pointe Place, Roswell - 770-475-3600 – www.roswell-dentist.com

12. Windward Dental Care – 12850 Highway 9 North, #400, Alpharetta – 770-569-7580 – www.windwarddental.com

Dermatologists13. Alpha-Derm – 401 South Main St.,

#C7, Alpharetta – 770-4750-02004 – www.alpha-derm.com

14. Goodman Dermatology – 2500 Hospital Blvd., #280, Roswell – 770-754-0787

Family HealtH15. Cash Family Health – 11285 Elkins

Road, Roswell – 678-760-380016. Complete Family Healthcare –

2520 Northwinds Parkway, #150, Alpharetta – 770-772-3500

17. Northside Primary Care - 11800 Northfall Lane #1401, Alpharetta – 678-867-0904 - www.draazrumsyed.com

18. SomaNu – 12990 Highway 9, Suite 114, Milton – 678-242-0204 – www.somanuwl.com

Hospitals19. North Fulton Regional Hospital –

3000 Hospital Blvd., Roswell – 770-751-2536 – www.nfultonhospital.com

20. Piedmont Hospital – 104 Prominence Point Parkway #104, Canton – 770-704-6988 – www.piedmont.org

21. St.Joseph’s Hospital of Atlanta – 1400 Hembree Road, Roswell – 678-319-4736 – www.stjosephsatlanta.org

internal meDicine22. Eagle Medical Center - 804 Bombay

Lane, Roswell - 770-754-9880 - www.myeaglemedicalcenter.com

23. Elite Care Internal Medicine - 1240 Upper Hembree Road, Suite D, Roswell - 770-667-0810 – www.elitecareim.com

24. Spectrum Internal Medicine – 401 South Main Street, Alpharetta – 678-319-9901 – www.spectruminternalmed.com

oB/gyn25. Alpharetta Women’s Specialists –

1360 Upper Hembree Road, Suite 101, Roswell – 770-817-1970 – www.awsobgyn.com

26. Isis – 401 South Main Street, Suite B-8, Alpharetta – 770-521-2229 – www.isisobgyn.com

27. Providence Women’s Healthcare – 1300 Upper Hembree Road, Roswell – 770-6770-6170 – www.providencewomenshealthcare.com

peDiatricians28. Children’s Therapy Works –

11940 Alpharetta Highway #150, Alpharetta – 770-754-0085 – www.childrenstherapyworks.com

29. Main Street Internal Medicine and Pediatrics – 401 South Main St. #C5, Alpharetta – 678-205-2437 – www.msimap.com

30. North Fulton Pediatrics – 1285 Hembree Road, #100, Roswell – 770-442-1050

prostHetists31. Custom Ocular Prosthetics – 401

S. Main St. #B6, Alpharetta – 770-667-1166

32. Pinnacle Prosthetics – 80 Mill St., Roswell – 770-998-5547

senior care33. Advantage Senior Care

– 404-312-6423 – www.advantageseniorcareinc.com

34. CareMinders Home Care - 178 South Main Street, Suite 310, Alpharetta, GA 30009 – 770-973-6400 - www.careminders.com

35. Comfort Keepers – 2475 Northwinds Parkway, Suite 200, Alpharetta – 770-753-6457

36. Golden Home Services – 11205 Alpharetta Highway, STE F5, Roswell – 678-242-0084

37. Life Balance Home Care - 290 S. Main Street, Ste. 500 Alpharetta, GA 30009 - 770-663-4100 - www.lifebalancehomecare.com

38. Senior Helpers - 294 S Main St # 300 - Alpharetta - (770) 442-2154 – www.seniorhelpers.com

39. Visiting Angels - 11775 Northfall Lane Suite 207, Alpharetta - (678) 277-9930 - www.visitingangels.com/alpharetta

senior centers40. Alpharetta Senior Center - 13450

Cogburn Road, Alpharetta - (678) 297-6140

41. Crabapple Senior center - 12624 Broadwell Road, Alpharetta - (770) 751-9397

42. Roswell Senior Center - 1250 Warsaw Road, Roswell - (770) 640-1583

senior living43. Arbor Terrace - 12200 Crabapple

Road, Alpharetta - (678) 894-7803 - www.at-crabapple.com

44. Chambrel at Roswell - 1000 Applewood Drive, Roswell - (770) 594-4600 - www.brookdaleliving.com/chambrel-at-roswell

45. Churchill Manor - 143 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta - (770) 667-6078 – www.churchillmanor.net

46. Crabapple Hall - 200 Pine Valley Drive, Alpharetta - (770) 664-9264 - www.crabapplehall.com

47. Dogwood Forest - 253 North Main Street, Alpharetta - (770) 410-9169 - www.dogwoodforestalpharetta.com

48. Elmcroft of Roswell - 400 Marietta Highway, Roswell - (770) 650-0555 - www.elmcroftal.com

49. Freedom Pointe Roswell - 75 Magnolia Street, Roswell - (770) 645-1900 - www.brookdaleliving.com

50. Hearthstone Assisted Living - 350

Market Place, Roswell - (770) 552-1091

51. Manor on the Square - 550 Barrington Drive, Roswell - (770) 993-8040 - www.manoronthesquare.net

52. Merrill Gardens at Roswell - 655 Mansell Road, Roswell - (678) 894-7820 - www.merrillgardens.com/assisted_living

53. Parc Alpharetta - 1000 Fanfare Way, Alpharetta - (770) 346-9011 - www.watertonresidential.com

54. Somerby of Alpharetta - 100 Somerby Drive, Alpharetta - (770) 650-9577 - www.somerbyofalpharetta.com

55. The Veranda of Roswell - 11725 Pointe Place, Roswell - (770) 521-9913 - www.verandaroswell.com

sHelters/outreacH56. Find a way home – 89 Grove Way,

Suite 101, Roswell – 678-381-2000 – www.findawayhome.org

57. Fulton Families Matter – 929 Zion Circle, Roswell – 770-993-0207

58. Habitat for Humanity – 814 Mimosa Blvd., Roswell – 770-587-9679

59. Homestretch – 89 Grove Way, Roswell – 770-642-9185 – www.homestretch.org

60. Lost Ones, Inc – 1158 Canton St., Roswell – 770-993-0055

61. North Fulton Community Charities - 11270 Elkins Rd., Roswell, 770-640-0399, www.nfcchelp.org

62. The Drake House – 10500 Clara Drive, Roswell – 770-587-4712 – www.thedrakehouse.org

surgery centers63. Grady Health System – 1143

Alpharetta St., Roswell – 404-616-1550 – www.gradyhealth.org

urgent cares64. Atlanta Cancer Care – 1357

Hembree Road Suite 230, Roswell – 770-740-9664 – www.atlantacancercare.com

65. Bethany Bend Urgent Care – 13081 Highway 9 North, Alpharetta – 678-671-3890 – www.bethanybendurgentcare.com

66. Doctors Express – 12315 Crabapple Road Suite 108, Alpharetta – 678-762-9292 – www.doctorsexpressalpharetta.com

67. Georgia Urgent Care – 1360 Upper Hembree Road #100, Roswell – 678-393-6482 – www.georgiaurgentcare.com

68. Roswell Urgent Care Center – 660 W. Crossville Road #110, Roswell – 678-436-5266 – www.roswellurgentcare.com

69. Urgent Care of Atlanta – 5304 Windward parkway, Alpharetta – 770-777-2062 – www.urgentcareatlanta.com

West of 400 Medical & Seniors Guide

CUMMING ST

ACADEMY ST

HOPEWELL R

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RED RD

CO

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N R

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ROSWELLROSWELL

MOUNTAIN PARKMOUNTAIN PARK

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CHEROKEE COUNTY

CHEROKEE COUNTY

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SANDY SPRINGS

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- Audiologists- Child Services- Dentists- Dermatologists- Family Health- Hospitals- Internal Medicine- OB/GYN- Pediatricians- Prosthetists- Senior Care- Senior Center- Senior Living- Shelters/Outreach- Surgery Centers- Urgent Cares

CUMMING ST

ACADEMY ST

HOPEWELL R

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CO

GB

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CHEROKEE COUNTY

CHEROKEE COUNTY

WO

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- Audiologists- Child Services- Dentists- Dermatologists- Family Health- Hospitals- Internal Medicine- OB/GYN- Pediatricians- Prosthetists- Senior Care- Senior Center- Senior Living- Shelters/Outreach- Surgery Centers- Urgent Cares


opHtHalmologistsThomas Eye Group – 9 locations throughout the Atlanta area – www.thomaseye.com – 678.892.2020


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CUMMINGCUMMING

- Audiologists- Child Services- Chiropractic- Counseling/Mental Health- Dentists- Dermatologists- Family Health- Internal Medicine- OB/GYN- Pediatricians- Senior Care- Senior Center- Senior Living- Shelters/Outreach- Sleep Assistance- Surgery Centers- Urgent Cares- YMCA

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BUFORD DAM RD

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SHILOH R

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BRIDGE RDBRIDGE RD

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WY

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RD

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HURT BRIDGE RD

HURT BRIDGE RD

MATT HWY

MATT HWY

CANTON HWY

SAWNEE DR

JOT EM DOWN RD

JOT EM DOWN RD

JOT

EM

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RD

JOT

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AC SMITH RD

DREW CAMPGROUND RD

MAJORS RD

Lake

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CUMMINGCUMMING

- Audiologists- Child Services- Chiropractic- Counseling/Mental Health- Dentists- Dermatologists- Family Health- Internal Medicine- OB/GYN- Pediatricians- Senior Care- Senior Center- Senior Living- Shelters/Outreach- Sleep Assistance- Surgery Centers- Urgent Cares- YMCA

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Forsyth CountyMedical & Seniors Guide


auDiologists1. Audiology HEARS – 6130

Southard Trace, Cumming – 770-781-2376 – www.audiologyhears.com

2. Emory Audiology – 4045 Johns Creek Parkway, Suite B, Suwanee – 770-814-1260

cHilD services3. Angels Over Forsyth - 3651

Peachtree Parkway, Suite E, PMB 350, Suwanee – 770-569-0776 – www.angelsoverforsyth.com

4. Hands on Forsyth - 133 Samaritan Drive, Cumming – 770-205-1701 – www.handsonforsyth.org

cHiropractic5. Cumming Med Spa &

Chiropractice – 2950 Buford Highway, Suite 140, Cumming – 678-455-8800

6. Discover Chiropractic – 2360 Bethelview Road, Cumming – 678-456-9122 – www.discoverrehab.com

counseling services/mental HealtH7. Family Counseling Associated of

North Georgia – 102 Mary Alice Park Road Suite 504, Cumming – 1-888-850-4891 – www.familycounseling4ng.com

8. Kids Creek Therapy – 3905 Johns Creek Court #250, Suwanee – 770-888-5221 – www.kidscreektherapy.com

9. The Center for Psychotherapy of North Georgia – 634 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming – 678-513-7676

Dentists10. Advanced Dental Associates

– 285 Elm St., Cumming – 770-887-2915 – www.advanceddentalassociates.com

11. Avenue Dental – 983 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming – 770-888-4444 – www.avenue-dental.com

12. Bryan Family Dentistry – 403 East Maple St., Cumming – 770-887-3223 – www.bryanfamilydentistry.com

13. Cumming Dental Associate – 1200 Bald Ridge Marina Road, #200, Cumming – 770-781-8560 – www.cummingdental.com

14. Cumming Dental Care – 416 Pirkle Ferry Road, Cumming – 770-889-1990 – www.cummingdentalcare.com

15. Cumming’s Family Dentist – 309 Pirkle Ferry Road, Cumming – 770-205-9226 – www.cummingsfamilydentist.com

16. Children’s Dentistry of Cumming – 407 East Maple St., #109, Cumming – 678-445-5444 – www.childrensdds.com

17. The Dentist – 1024 Market Place Blvd., Cumming – 770-844-6771

18. Lemons Dental Esthetics – 4060 Johns Creek Parkway, Building B, Suwanee – 770-418 – 1414 – www.lemonsdental.com

19. Dr. Robert Shackelford – 3915 Johns Creek Court, Suwanee – 770-442-8472

20. North Georgia Smiles – 1595 Peachtree Parkway #207, Cumming – 770-888-8282 – www.northgeorgiasmiles.com

21. Pediatric Dentistry of Forsyth – 3810 Windermere Parkway #501, Cumming – 770-889-9600 – www.drjasonbongiovi.com

Dermatologists22. Aesthetic Dermatology PC – 960

Sanders Road, #300, Cumming – 770-205-0104 – aestheticdermpc.com

23. Atlanta Center-Dermatologic – 327 Dahlonega Road, #1501, Cumming – 770-844-1902 – www.atlcetnerforderm.com

24. Atlanta Vein Specialists – 4060 Johns Creek Parkway, Johns Creek – 678-315-3511 – www.

atlveins.com25. Dermatology & Skin Cancer

Prevention Center – 3275 Market Place Blvd., #250, Cumming – 770-389-9116 – www.dermskincancerprevention.com

26. Georgia Dermatology Center – 1505 Northside Blvd., #1500, Cumming – 770-781-5077 – www.dadermctr.com

27. Vein Solutions – 1505 Northside Blvd., Cumming – 678-513-4275 – www.veinsolutions.com

Family HealtH28. Advanced Gastroenterology

Associates – 1505 Northside Blvd. Suite 2000, Cumming – 770-781-4010 – www.advgastro.com

29. Atlanta Podiatry – 4355 Johns Creek Parkway – 770-418-0456 – www.atlpod.com

30. Lanier Family Healthcare – 5830 Bond St., #200, Cumming – 770-205-5518 – www.lfhllc.com

31. North Georgia Diabetes – 1505 Northside Forsyth Drive, Cumming – 770-886-3842

32. South Atlanta Urology – 5400 Laurel Springs Parkway #1403, Suwanee – 678-845-0390

internal meDicine33. Comprehensive Internal Medicine

– 3890 Johns Creek Parkway, Suwanee – 770-622-9002 – www.cimedicine.com

34. Internal Medicine of Johns Creek – 3340 Paddocks Parkway, Suwanee

35. Johns Creek Primary Care Physicians – 4365 Johns Creek Parkway, Ste. 400, Suwanee – 678-957-1910 – www.johnscreekprimarycare.com

senior care36. Sarah Care Adult Daycare – 4265

Johns Creek Parkway, Johns Creek – 770-476-8400 – www.sarahcare.com

senior centers37. Forsyth County Senior Center – 2

Tri-County Plaza, Cumming – 770-844-7500

senior living38. Belmont Village – 4315 Johns

Creek Parkway, Suwanee – 770-813-9505-www.johnscreek.belmontvillage.com

39. Cumming Manor – 2775 Castleberry Road, Cumming – 770-781-2300

40. Laurel Creek Manor - 7955 Majors Road, Cumming - (678) 456-8363 - www.laurelcreekmanorcommunity.com

41. The Oaks at Post Road - 3875 Post Road, Cumming - (770) 886-2630 - www.oaksseniorliving.com

42. Villas at Canterfield - 745 Atlanta Road, Cumming - (770) 888-4929 - www.thevillasatcanterfield.com

sHelters/outreacH43. Habitat for Humanity – 133

Samaritan Drive, Cumming – 770-886-4939

44. Hightower Association Food Bank – 1120 Pilgrim Road, Cumming – 770-205-2464

45. IM In A Family Receiving Homes, Inc – 3482 Keith Bridge Road #126, Cumming – 770-889-7950

46. The Place of Forsyth County – 2550 The Place Circle, Cumming – 770-887-1098 – www.theplaceofforsyth.com

sleep assistance47. Fusion Sleep – 4265 Johns Creek

Parkway, Suwanee – 678-990-3962 – www.fusionsleep.com

surgery centers48. Advanced Plastic Surgery

Solutions – 6920 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suwanee – 678-205-8400 – www.advancedplasticsurgerysolutions.com

oB/gyn49. Alpharetta Women’s Health Group

– 1505 Northside Blvd., Cumming – 770-888-3358 – www.awhg.org

peDiatricians50. Alpharetta Pediatrics – 102

Pilgrim Village Drive #300, Cumming – 678-947-4588 – www.alpharettapediatricsonline.com

51. Children's Healthcare of Atlanta – 410 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming – www.choa.org

52. Cumming Pediatric Group PC – 1505 Northside Forsyth Drive #3600, Cumming – 770-888-8888 – www.cummingpediatricgroup.net

53. Lakeside Pediatrics – 204 Canton Road, Cumming – 770-886-5437

54. Rainbow Pediatric Clinic – 1670 Buford Highway, Cumming – 770-781-1606 – www.rainbowpedclinic.com

55. Roswell Pediatric Center – 110 North Corners Parkway #100, Cumming – 770-888-2882 – www.roswellpediatrics.com

56. Vickery Pediatrics – 410 Peachtree Parkway #4260, Cumming – 678-990-2501 – www.vickerypeds.com

urgent cares57. Atlanta Cancer Care – 1505

Northside Blvd. #4600, Cumming – 770-205-5292 – www.altantacancercare.com

58. Cumming Family Medicine – 765 Lanier 400 Parkway, Cumming – 770-205-1294 – www.cummingfamilymedicine.com

59. Northside Urgent Care and Family Medicine – 5610 Bethelview Road, Cumming – 70-205-2804 – www.northsideurgentcare.com

60. Primecare Urgent Care – 1628 Market Place Blvd., Cumming – 770-292-9982

ymca61. Cumming – 6050 Y St., Cumming

– 770-888-2788 - www.ymca.net


13May 4, 200513


14

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15

North Fulton Hospital is committed to providing each and every patient with quality care—but it’s not just a pledge. It’s a dedication that’s been proven time and again not only by the great personal feedback received from patients and their families, but by the recognition of several national and state accrediting agencies and third-party assessment organizations.

“One of the keys to the success of any worthwhile endeavor is our ability to measure our progress in achievingthe objectives we have set for ourselves,” said Deborah C. Keel, CEO of North Fulton Hospital. “Without this critical feedback, we cannot accurately judge whether our eff orts are truly eff ective or not.” Awards and distinctions off er tangible evidence of the progress the hospital is making toward accomplishing it’s No. 1 objective: ensuring that they consistently provide safe and eff ective care for every patient who seeks treatment at North Fulton Hospital. “Accolades and accreditations represent something of a report card. They show us not just what we do, but how well we do it,” said Karim Godamunne, M.D., Chief Medical Offi cer at North Fulton Hospital. “Objective, third-party evaluations are based on a variety of measures and data, and take a range of factors into impartial consideration.” North Fulton Hospital is proud to share these awards and distinctions with their community:

An Award-Winning Facility,Right in Your Neighborhood

· American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer: Community Hospital Cancer Program Accreditation Award with Commendations

· Leapfrog Group: Hospital Safety Score - “A”

· Joint Commission: Advance Primary Stroke Certifi cation

· Joint Commission: Top Performer on Key Quality Measures

· Joint Commission: Hospital Accreditation

· American Heart Association Get with the Guidelines Achievement Awards: Gold Plus for Heart Failure and Gold Plus for Stroke Care

· UnitedHealth Premium Specialty Center designation for Surgical Spine

· Blue Cross/Blue Shield: Center of Excellence for Spine Surgery

· Aetna: Elective Delivery Infant Safety Recognition

· American Academy of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Certifi cation

· American Association for Respiratory Care Quality Respiratory Care Recognition

· Georgia Hospital Association: Quality Honor Roll— Chairman Category

· Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) 5 Million Lives Campaign participant and partner

· American College of Radiology Accreditation

• North Fulton Hospital Radiology: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI),

Computed Tomography (CT), and Ultrasound• North Fulton Hospital Outpatient Imaging Center: Mammography,

Computed Tomography (CT), and Ultrasound


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• Number of beds: 201

• Number of doctors:More than 2,200

• Hospital space: More than 700,000 square feet

• Annual patients: 11,527 Admissions, 155,449 Outpatient Visits (2011)

• Areas of Specialty:Maternity, emergency, diagnostic and interventional cardiology, minimally invasive and robotic surgery, breast care, neurosurgery, sleep disorder, spine care, imaging, plastic surgery, orthopedics, urology, GI services, oncology and radiation therapy

• Serving Since: 2002

• Future expansion: Northside will soon begin construction on a fourth Medical Office Building

on the Northside Hospital-Forsyth campus. The new three-story, 75,000-square-foot building will connect to the south side of the existing Women’s Center and will house a variety of physician specialties and practices to support the hospital’s growing Women’s Services volume. Northside plans to break ground on the new building in the winter, with construction estimated to be completed in summer 2013.

• The no. 1 message to the community: The Northside Hospital Healthcare System is an extensive network of state-of-the-art medical facilities, leading-edge technology and pioneering experience, and is dedicated to the health and wellness of the communities it serves. Atlanta’s “Most Preferred Hospital for Overall Healthcare Services,” as

voted by consumers in the National Research Corporation’s Healthcare Market Guide, Northside is committed to balancing clinical excellence with high-quality, compassionate care. Comprising three acute care, state-of-the-art hospitals and more than 40 outpatient facilities across north metro Atlanta, the healthcare system offers a full range of medical services.

• How the hospital is best known:The Cancer InstituteThe Northside Hospital Cancer Institute is recognized nationally as a leader in cancer diagnosis, treatment and research. In fact, Northside is the only Atlanta hospital chosen to be a Community Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute. More cases of breast, GYN and prostate cancer are

treated at Northside than anywhere else in Georgia and the hospital has the best survival rates in the nation for bone marrow transplants.

A Leader in Women’s HealthcareNorthside Hospital-Atlanta is the leader in maternity and newborn services, delivering more babies than any other single hospital in the country, and has been recognized by J.D. Power and Associates for providing “An Outstanding Maternity Experience” for four consecutive years.

Pioneers in SurgeryNorthside is a leader in providing state-of-the-art surgical services. The hospital offers the very latest robotic technology and has performed more robotic procedures than any other hospital in the Southeast. Northside was the first in

Georgia to perform Single-Site robotic surgery and single-incision laparoscopic weight loss surgery. Many of the surgeons on staff at Northside are pioneers in laparoscopic surgery and are nationally recognized for their expertise in this and many other minimally invasive techniques.

High-Tech ImagingNorthside is highly respected throughout metro Atlanta for its state-of-the-art imaging services. The hospital was first in Atlanta to offer breast tomosynthesis, also known as 3D mammography, the latest tool in the fight against breast cancer, and is designated a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology.

— Provided by Northside Hospital - Forsyth

LYNN JACKSON, ADMINISTRATOR

Northside Hospital - Forsyth


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North Fulton Hospital•Number of Beds: 202

• Number of Doctors: 400

• Areas of Specialty: Cancer Care, Emergency Services, Neurosciences, Pain and Spine Center, Women’s Health Services, Orthopeadics, Inpatient Rehabilitation, Surgical Services, Gastroenterology

• Serving the Community Since: 1983

• Recent and Future Expansion): In Fall 2012, North Fulton Hospital moved its diagnostic imaging center, Roswell Imaging Center, and its Pain and Spine Center to the new North Fulton Medical Plaza--a Class A, 52-square-foot medical office building directly across from the hospital. Roswell Imaging Center features a comprehensive suite of equipment and services to meet routine radiology needs and houses NFH's outstanding Breast Cancer Center. On the second floor of that same building, the hospital relocated and expanded its outpatient Pain and Spine Center, featuring two new procedure rooms as well all other services to treat patients. In the near future, NFH plans to add a new outpatient open MRI and an array of cardiology diagnostic equipment into the Roswell Imaging Center. The community will also see two new

North Fulton Hospital Urgent Care Centers open in very convenient, accessible and visible locations to serve non-emergent needs.

• No. 1 Message to the Community: For almost 30 years, North Fulton Hospital (NFH) has been serving North Fulton County and surrounding counties through its team of more than 800 employees, 400 staff physicians and 200 volunteers. NFH has grown with the community and for the community, and is deeply commited to providing the very highest level of expertise, safety, and compassion to our patients and their families.How the Hospital is Best Known (250 words):North Fulton Hospital is committed to providing each and every patient with quality care—but it’s not just a pledge. It’s a dedication that’s been proven time and again not only by the great personal feedback received from patients and their families, but by the recognition of several national and state accrediting agencies and third-party assessment organizations:

• American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer: Community Hospital Cancer Program Accreditation Award with Commendations --Leapfrog Group: Hospital Safety

Score - "A"

• Joint Commission: Advance Primary Stroke Certification

• Joint Commission: Top Performer on Key Quality Measures

• Joint Commission: Hospital Accreditation

• American Heart Association Get with the Guidelines

• Achievement Awards: Gold Plus for Heart Failure and Gold Plus for Stroke Care

• UnitedHealth Premium Specialty Center designation for Surgical Spine

• Blue Cross/Blue Shield: Center of Excellence for Spine Surgery

• Aetna: Elective Delivery Infant Safety Recognition

• American Academy of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Certification

• American Association for Respiratory Care Quality Respiratory Care Recognition

• Georgia Hospital Association: Quality Honor Roll— Chairman Category

• Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) 5 Million Lives Campaign participant and partner

• American College of Radiology Accreditation for North Fulton Hospital Radiology: Magnetic Resonance

• Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT), and Ultrasound; and for North Fulton Hospital Outpatient Imaging Center: Mammography, Computed Tomography (CT), and Ultrasound

— Provided by North Fulton Regional Hospital

Debbie Keel, CEO


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Emory Johns Creek Hospital

• Number of beds: 110 • Number of doctors: More than 850

• Hospital space: 282,000 square feet

• Annual patients: 58,164 patients (inpatient, outpatient, ER)

• Areas of specialty: Advanced Cardiology, Primary Stroke Center, Bariatrics, Neurology, Women’s Services, Emergency Services

• Serving the community since: February 2007

• The No. 1 message to the community: The hospital is best known for providing compassionate care in a truly, state-of-the-art setting with hotel like amenities. Advanced imaging, diagnostics and surgical capabilities. Cardiac Cath Lab, Only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in the Area, Orthopedic Surgery, Neurosurgery, 24/7 Emergency. Comprehensive community hospital, offering complete range of health care services – world class, Emory care in a community hospital setting.

6325 Hospital ParkwayJohns Creek, GA 30097www.emoryjohnscreek.com678-474-7000

— Provided by Emory Johns Creek Hospital


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• Number of beds: 553 Number of doctors: More than 800

• Hospital space: Approximately 1.4 million sq ft between both campuses

• Annual Patients: 403,106 (ER discharges, surgical patients and outpatient visits)

• Areas of Specialty: Bariatrics, Cardiology, Imaging, Minimally Invasive Surgery, Neuroscience, Orthopedics, Women’s Services

• Serving the community since: 1946

• Future expansions: Strickland Heart Center to open early 2012

• The No. 1 message to the community: Gwinnett Medical Center is an award-winning not-for-profit healthcare network including two hospitals, Gwinnett Medical Center-Lawrenceville and Gwinnett Medical Center-Duluth,

and various other support facilities. Gwinnett Medical Center holds the distinction of being the only hospital in Atlanta to be named to the HealthGrades list of America’s 100 Best Hospitals for 2012. At GMC, we are transforming healthcare, and every facet of our healthcare system is designed with the patient in mind. This transformation is evident through state, regional and national accolades including being repeatedly ranked in the top five percent in the nation for clinical quality. As one of “America’s safest hospitals,” according to Forbes,¹ we’re taking the lead as the best healthcare provider in the region. Our staff includes some of the country’s most renowned, well-trained and well-educated physicians, specialist and employees.

Gwinnett Medical Center-LawrencevilleAs our flagship facility, GMC-Lawrenceville is a full-service hospital that features the newly opened Strickland Heart Center. In addition,

GMC-Lawrenceville offers comprehensive medical specialty services and centers of excellence including Orthopedics, Neuroscience, Chest Pain and Sleep Disorders. The Lawrenceville campus is also the site of the Gwinnett Breast Center, Gwinnett DaySurgery, Gwinnett Women’s Pavilion, Gwinnett Extended Care Center, Wound Treatment Center, Pain Management Center and Gwinnett SportsRehab. Our 24-hour emergency care includes a Level II Trauma Center and Children’s Emergency Center.

Gwinnett Medical Center-DuluthGwinnett Medical Center–Duluth is the first all-digital hospital in north Atlanta serving Duluth, Johns Creek, Peachtree Corners, Suwanee and surround ing communities, GMC– Duluth specialty care includes Orthopedics, Glancy Rehabilitation Center, Sleep Disorders, Gwinnett Sports Rehab, Surgical Weight Management and a 24-hour Emergency Department. GMC-Duluth is also home to the state’s leading Sports Medicine program.

• What the hospital is best known for: The Strickland Heart Center is home to Gwinnett’s first open heart surgery program. Gwinnett Medical Center is the first healthcare system in Georgia to have a fully accredited continuum of acute stroke care. The Center for Surgical Weight Management at GMC-Duluth is Gwinnett’s only comprehensive bariatric program.

Our Gwinnett Breast Center program, which offers individualized care with a patient-centered approach offers screening imaging, same day surgical consults, on-site scheduling and diagnostic imaging, and is accredited by the National Accreditation Program of Breast Centers.National leader in minimally invasive surgery including Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery and daVinci Robotic Surgery that offers patients a virtually scarless surgery that minimizes hospital stay and recovery time.

Gwinnett Medical Center- Lawrenceville1000 Medical Center Blvd.Lawrenceville, GA 30046678-312-1000

Gwinnett Medical Center–Duluth 3620 Howell Ferry Road Duluth, GA 30096 678-312-6800

— Provided by Gwinnett Medical Center

Philip R. WolfePresident & CEO

Gwinnett Medical Center


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Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta strives to make children better today and healthier tomorrow. Whether it’s treating a toddler with a heart defect or helping a teen manage asthma, we take our commitment to care for Georgia’s children seriously.

With three hospitals and 18 neighborhood locations throughout metro Atlanta, including Marcus Autism Center, Children’s serves all 159 counties in Georgia and cares for more than half a million patients each year. For the past seven years, U.S. News & World Report has ranked Children’s as one of the top pediatric hospitals in the nation. Children’s continues to make access to specialized pediatric care easier and closer to families through our Urgent Care Centers. Children’s at Forsyth and Children’s at North Point provide access to care for families from Cherokee, Dawson, DeKalb, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Hall, Lumpkin and surrounding counties.

How is Children’s Different?Children are not small adults; their

anatomy and physiology, the kinds

of illnesses they suffer from and the treatments they need are different. Children’s pediatric-focused facilities house an environment where patients can receive high quality clinical care in child-friendly surroundings. At Children’s, patients receive model care from doctors, nurses, physician assistants and technicians who care for children every day and are trained to use specialized pediatric medical procedures and equipment.

Children’s Urgent Care CentersThe Urgent Care Centers at

Children’s at Forsyth and Children’s at North Point offer the same care to treat those minor illnesses and injuries when you cannot get to your pediatrician. Unlike retail clinics, Children’s staff members are specially trained to treat children and teens. Our uniquely equipped Urgent Care Centers have a pediatrician on staff, fast track programs to shorten wait and treatment times for children with less serious illnesses or injuries, on-site lab and X-ray services for quick diagnosis, and access to the Children’s network of 1,600 doctors trained in more than 30 pediatric specialties. A visit to one

of our Urgent Care Centers is often quicker and less expensive than an Emergency Department visit, and we accept most insurance plans. We are committed to getting your child home and better faster.

We are experts in treating:• Allergic reactions• Bits or stings• Cold and flu• Coughing and wheezing• Cuts requiring basic stitches• Earaches and ear infections• Fevers (for children older than 2

months)• Minor burns• Minor head injuries• Simple fractures, sprains or

strains• Sore throat• Stomachaches, vomiting and

diarrhea

Children’s at ForsythThe Avenue Forsyth

410 Peachtree ParkwayCumming, GA 30041

404-785-3100choa.org/Forsyth

Children’s at Forsyth services:Neurophysiology (EEG)

Orthotics and ProstheticsRadiology (X-ray and lab)

Rehabilitation ServicesSpecialty Care

Sports MedicineUrgent Care

Children’s at North Point3795 Mansell Road

Alpharetta, GA 30022404-785-8540

choa.org/NorthpointChildren’s at North Point services:

Radiology (X-ray and lab)Specialty CareUrgent Care

Both locations are conveniently available:

Regular hours11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Friday

9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Holiday hours (Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day,

Christmas Day, New Year’s Day) 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

— Provided by Children's Healthcare of Atlanta

Children’s Healthcare of AtlantaBrings North Atlanta Residents Access to Nationally Recognized Pediatric Care


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Childhood is a non-stop adventure. So when accidents happen, trust the doctors with theexpertise to treat growing bones and growth plates the right way. choa.org/fracture.

Dedicated to All Better

CHILDREN’S AT FORSYTH — 410 PEACHTREE PKWY., AT THE AVENUE® FORSYTHCHILDREN’S AT NORTH POINT — 3795 MANSELL ROAD, ALPHARETTA


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“Since I was little, if you had asked me what I wanted to be, I’d have said ‘brain surgeon',” says Lea Bay, president of Gwinnett Medical Center-Duluth. “My father was a neurosurgeon and on Saturdays he’d take me along to be his ‘chart holder’ while he made his rounds. I always loved being in a hospital. I could see firsthand how his work made a huge difference.”

While in college at Emory University, Bay realized that medical school was not a fit with her academic strengths. Through a family friend, she learned about healthcare administration. “When I realized,” she says, “that I could still be in a hospital and support patient care as an administrator, this was a match for me. I changed my major from pre-med to business administration, graduated from Emory and went straight to Georgia State for their dual masters program in health administration and business.”

Part of that program was a nine-month hospital residency, spending time in each department. Bay landed at Gwinnett Medical Center, and has

never left. A Fellow in the American College

of Healthcare Executives, Bay is always searching for ways to improve and expand services to meet the needs of the community. “Part of my job,” she says, “is to be a sponge, gathering and organizing information so it’s actionable.”

She was responsible for overseeing the construction of GMC-Duluth, north Atlanta’s first all-digital hospital which replaced Joan Glancy Memorial, a facility that had served the community for 60 years. In addition, she worked with a team of physicians and others to develop the state’s leading sports medicine program, which provides certified athletic trainers to high schools in Gwinnett and North Fulton counties. Under Bay’s leadership, GMC brought the first bariatric surgery and robotic surgery services to the area, and instituted a program to make GMC-Duluth a more comfortable environment for the Korean community, including meals, an interpreter on staff and access to Korean television

stations.Bay is currently

serving on the John Creek Board of Directors, is a member of the Duluth Civitans and is a graduate of Leadership Gwinnett.

On top of her professional involvement, Bay is married, with twin eight-year-olds. Her weekends are spent at their activities - soccer, ballet and ice hockey. And she’s co-leader of her daughter’s Brownie troop.

Along with this incredibly busy schedule, Bay also finds time to exercise. “It’s important for me to be healthy,” she says. “Because I chose to be an older mom, I want to be healthy for my family – so that I can be healthy at the kids’ weddings and to play with my grandchildren. As a bonus I get social time, too, since I work out with friends.”

This passion for health and fitness has spread to GMC-Duluth. In 2009

she founded the GMC-Duluth Road Runners Club, to combine getting fit, having fun, and helping make the hospital visible at community events. Today there are more than 140 members. When they run together, they wear matching blue shirts, giving GMC-Duluth visibility on a very personal level.

“At GMC-Duluth we support the GMC mission

of excellence in clinical outcomes,” says Bay, “and we also have a cultural mission within our walls: at GMC-Duluth, we want to be the place where the patients feel well cared for, as well as the place where the physicians and our associates choose to work and enjoy working.”

For Bay, choosing GMC-Duluth 22 years ago also fulfilled her childhood dream to work in a hospital, and to make a difference in peoples’ lives.

IN PursuIt oF ExcEllENcE: Lea Bay’s Quest to Make a Difference

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Venous disease, also commonly known as varicose or spider veins, is not just a cosmetic concern, but if left untreated can become a serious problem. As many as 1 in 3 women suffer from some form of venous disease. Symptoms could include swelling, heaviness, cramping, pain, or ulcers that make walking and other everyday activities diffi cult. As one of the top vascular surgeons in the nation, Dr. Joseph Ricotta understands the intricacies of the vascular system. Offering a full spectrum of vascular and endovascular services he will provide an on-site evaluation and minimally invasive treatment options. Call (770) 292-3490 for an appointment. www.NVS-GA.com

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There was a time when simply being a good doctor and providing outstanding care would ensure a doctor’s success. This is not the case today. Consider all of the complexities ranging from healthcare reform, one-sided contracts with managed care organizations, deeper cuts to Medicare, enormous malpractice insurance rates, claims appeals, and the complexities of electronic medical records. The business side of medicine has become a distraction for doctors, taking away valuable patient time and resulting in lost revenue for the doctor and the practice.

A key component to assisting doctors with today’s complexities is a solid financial institution. A strong bank can help doctors be financially prepared for practice transitions, expansions, office renovations and investment in new technologies. Having a banking team with experienced financial professionals that specialize in medical banking can make a difference.

KeyWorth Bank has a team of bankers who specialize in medical banking. KeyWorth Bank is dedicated to strong and sound growth, serving the medical and business community in metro Atlanta. The bank opened its doors in 2007 and has grown to $350 million in assets with offices in Alpharetta, Duluth, Johns Creek and a loan office in Marietta. It has become clear that these markets comprise a large portion of Atlanta’s medical community – a community of physicians and dentists with specific

business needs.Medical practices like Children’s Orthopaedics

of Atlanta are finding the true benefit of working with a team like KeyWorth. Mark Kline, COO of Children’s Orthopaedics of Atlanta says, “KeyWorth Bank has demonstrated a ‘customer friendly’ approach.” Kline says, “KeyWorth has keen insight into the needs of a medical practice, a thorough understanding of physician financial information, and responsiveness to our needs that we have never seen in the Atlanta banking community.”

Neil Stevens, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of KeyWorth Bank, says, “This is exactly what we had in mind when assembling our medical banking team. We know that the last thing doctors have is excess time.” Stevens says, “At KeyWorth, we understand a practices unique business situation and help physicians and dentists navigate through today’s complex environment.”

In addition to a variety of checking accounts, online banking services, money market accounts, and CDs, there are several extra benefits that dentists and physicians should look for in a bank. One such benefit is Remote Deposit Capture – saving trips to the bank through a web-based application that reduces the risk of check fraud. Merchant service offerings should also be considered, allowing practices to accept credit, debit and gift cards.

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should seek is multiple financing options, including SBA loan programs. Some practices may need to purchase new equipment to remain current in the latest medical innovations. A strong bank, like KeyWorth Bank, has money to lend and helps practices obtain better loan terms in many cases. Additional financing solutions such as real estate or construction loans, working capital lines of credit and practice acquisition loans could be a tremendous benefit throughout a practice’s lifecycle.

Dr. Charles Machemehl III, of Johns Creek Family Orthodontics remarks that his bank has been critical to the financial success of his practice. “KeyWorth Bank is very strong and stable,” he says, “It’s reassuring to know my bank and team of professionals will be around when I need them. Speaking of “being around, the Medical Banking specialists at KeyWorth go out of their way to meet with doctors and dentists on their schedule. “It’s not about ‘banker’s hours’ anymore,” states KeyWorth President and CEO Jim Pope, “It’s about the most effective way to get business done.”

To sum it all up, there IS a difference in banks when it comes to medical banking. A team of professionals that understands those differences can put the focus quickly back on the patient.

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6920 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 300, Suwanee, GA 30024 | Telephone (678) 835-2299 | Fax (678) 835-2296 | www.jcdcinfo.comHours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-6:00pm • Same day appointments with STAT reads within 2 hour

All Insurances Accepted and we assist the referring Physician in pre certifi cation approval.

ith compassion, comfort and quality as high priorities, you’ll fi nd that Johns Creek Diagnostic Center is well equipped to take care of your medical imaging needs in a private and relaxed environment. As one of the fi rst outpatient imaging centers in Johns Creek, we’ve been providing medical imaging and diagnosis to thousands of patients since 2006. The goal for our specialized radiologists and highly trained staff is simply to MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

Our Current Diagnostic Imaging Services Include:• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) • MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography) • CT (Computed Tomography) scans • CTA (Computed Tomography Angiography) • X-ray • Ultrasound• Accreditation by the American College of Radiology

JOHNS CREEKDIAGNOSTICC E N T E R

Why pay up to 75% more at a hospital for your MRI, CT, Ultrasound or X-ray when you can get them done for a lot

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At Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates (AGA), our Board Certified physicians evaluate and treat a wide range of digestive disorders and liver diseases. From heartburn to hemorrhoids, and hepatitis to colon cancer screenings, our physicians offer patients quality healthcare in a compassionate setting. And with four locations serving North Fulton, Forsyth and Dawson counties, including new offices in Dawsonville and Johns Creek, finding a convenient location in your neighborhood is easy.

“We are dedicated to offering convenient, affordable, and complete healthcare services to our patients in the North Fulton area,” said Dr. Steven Morris, managing partner of AGA, “and we’re looking forward to doing just that for residents near our new locations in Johns Creek and Dawsonville.”

AGA’s physicians diagnose and treat all types of digestive disorders including acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome, hepatitis and liver disease, Crohn’s disease, lactose intolerance, celiac disease, Barrett’s esophagus, and ulcerative colitis. A healthy digestive tract is very important to your immune system and overall well-being, so heeding symptoms is critical. “Often, patients wait until symptoms are severe before seeing a doctor,” said Dr. Ozgur (Oscar) Muslu, who sees patients at AGA’s

North Fulton, Cumming and Dawsonville locations. “But whether it’s a slight case of indigestion chronic stomach pain, we want to help you feel your best.”

Some digestive symptoms should never be ignored, like persistent abdominal pain, a change in bowel habits, blood in your stool, or unexplained weight loss. “Each of these symptoms could indicate a number of things happening in your body,” said Dr. Yasmin Karim, who sees patients at AGA’s North Fulton and Cumming locations. “But more importantly, they can be indicators of something much more serious – even colon cancer.”

Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States and will claim more than 49,000 lives this year alone. But it is also one of the few cancers that, when detected in its early stages, is highly preventable through a screening colonoscopy. “Getting a screening colonoscopy is an important part of everybody’s healthcare,” said Dr. Karim. Research has shown that early detection and removal of colon polyps during a colonoscopy can actually prevent colon cancer. Screening colonoscopies are recommended for every adult beginning at age 50, unless there is a family history of colon cancer. Then it may be critical to get screened at a much

younger age. Another common procedure offered by AGA

physicians is hemorrhoid banding. “The banding technique we use for hemorrhoid removal is pain-free, and we do it right in the office,” said Dr. Chris Cameron, who sees patients in the North Fulton, Cumming and Dawsonville locations. “Our patients are having excellent success with this procedure and are finally getting some relief.”

When it comes to your health, the physicians at AGA encourage you to schedule your colonoscopy screening, pay attention to digestive-related symptoms, and remember, hemorrhoids can be removed – not just treated.

Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates is the oldest and largest gastroenterology practice in the southeast with 70 Board Certified physicians specializing in the evaluation and treatment of digestive disorders and liver diseases. The practice has more than 30 offices and seven state-of-the-art outpatient endoscopy centers conveniently located throughout metro Atlanta and North Georgia.

For more information about our physicians and our locations, call 1-866-GO-TO-AGA or visit www.atlantagastro.com. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/atlantagastro.

Comprehensive Digestive Healthcare is in Your Neighborhood


31

Q: My family members say the TV is too loud and that I’m always asking them to repeat themselves, that I’m answering questions inappropriately, and that I seem withdrawn lately. They say I need hearing aids. I know I’m considered one of the Baby Boomers and that people of my age are realizing the importance of the ability to hear in their businesses, homes, and community, but really? Can they be correct?

A: Yes, quite often family members are the first to recognize the need for a loved one to seek hearing help. Primary Care Physicians may also detect a loss of hearing and will refer patients to an Audiologist for further diagnostic evaluation.

Q: How can I be certain that I have a hearing loss and might need hearing aids?

A: First and foremost, have your hearing tested by a reputable professional, preferably a Doctor of Audiology. Doctors of Audiology are uniquely qualified to diagnose hearing loss. A diagnostic evaluation, known as an audiogram, can detect several hearing disorders.

Q: How is the audiogram performed?

A: Hearing testing is done in a calibrated sound booth. The Doctor of Audiology first examines the ears to see if the suspected hearing loss may be caused by a build up of cerumen (wax) in the ears. Then, the Doctor of Audiology proceeds with a number of tests to determine

the cause and extent of the hearing loss. Once hearing loss is confirmed, the Doctor of Audiology may recommend medical intervention if needed, discuss hearing aid options, and provide extensive counseling for patients and family members.

Q: O.K., so now I know for sure that I need hearing aids. Will Medicare or my insurance help pay for hearing aids?

A: Hearing aids are not currently covered by Medicare. Few insurance plans have a hearing aid benefit or an allowance toward the purchase of hearing aids. To find out whether or not your insurance plan has coverage for hearing aids, call the contact number on your insurance card for verification.

Q: I’m bombarded with advertisements, all promoting “the latest”, the “best”, “invisible”, “affordable” hearing aids in every conceivable style, color and price. I’m confused. Where can I get the facts about the best hearing aids for my budget and lifestyle?

A: Choose a trusted Doctor of Audiology who will offer options tailored to your listening situations, lifestyle, and budget and who is knowledgeable of the proper fitting, adjustments and latest technology in the hearing devices. Although hearing aids look similar, they are not all alike. Don’t be lured into a purchase of a hearing aid that may not be appropriate for your need. Ask about the manufacturer’s customer

service background to insure that the hearing aid can be serviced properly if needed in future years. Lastly, choose a facility with a long-standing reputation in the community

for outstanding patient care.

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Ask the Expert for advice on hearing aids

An appointment with Doctor Deborah Woodward can be arranged by calling Emory Audiology & Hearing Aid Center

at Johns Creek at 770-814-1260.


32

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»HOW?The Six Month Smiles Cosmetic Braces System usesunique clear braces that gently straighten teeth in an average time of just six months.

»WHO?The Six Month Smiles System is for adults who areunhappy or embarrassed of their smile. The system fi ts into YOUR lifestyle – without the hassle of spend-ing 2 or more years in traditional metal braces.

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Expires March 30, 2013

Q: Who needs braces?A: Anybody that has crooked

teeth, spaces, overbite or underbite.

Q: Why should I have braces?A: Straightening front teeth will

improve your smile, self-esteem, job marketability, social acceptability, and attraction to the opposite sex.

Q: When should I have braces?A: The earlier braces are started,

the shorter the treatment time. Children can start as early as 6 years old. At that time the jaws and teeth position can be corrected to allow a better environment for permanent teeth to erupt. This means less or no treatment needed when the permanent teeth erupt. Adults can also wear braces to correct re-crowding from past orthodontic treatment or first time orthodontic treatment that can still be started as an adult.

Q: Will the braces hurt?A: When wires are placed on

teeth they cause teeth to begin moving into the proper position. In order to move, bone is dissolved on the side of the tooth facing the new position. This can cause some minor discomfort which can be overcome with over-the-counter medication and a soft diet. When the tooth reaches its proper position, new bone is created where old bone is dissolved and the tooth is now stable.

Q: Will I have to wear a retainer?A: The use of a removable or fixed

retainer after treatment is necessary to ensure long term stability of your new tooth position.

Q: Why should I have braces?A: Straight teeth will provide a

cosmetically pleasing smile, proper relationship between upper and lower jaws, making function and jaw joints healthier and cleaning easier, and maintenance of healthy teeth and gums longer.

Q: How do I clean my braces?

A: There are special techniques and instruments that can be used to clean your braces. Flossing, manual brushing, electronic toothbrushes, daily fluoride rinses, and quarterly visits to your dentist are essential to ensure healthy teeth and gums during and after orthodontic treatment.

Q: What is the length of treatment?

A: Treatment time can be from 3 to 7 years or 6 to 9 months, depending on treatment goals, start time, and patient desires.

Q: What do I do if a bracket or wire breaks?

A: Usually nothing is necessary immediately unless there is pain or bleeding. If there is, then your doctor can make an easy adjustment to correct the problem. Long term

results will generally not be affected by a broken wire or bracket if you wait until your next visit. Check with your doctor to be sure.

Q: What will braces look like during treatment?

A: Braces can be one of several different materials depending on the type of tooth movement involved. Sometimes they are a removable clear device or attached expandable appliance with a screw that is turned periodically. Sometime the bracket and wires are metal and are visible for the full length of treatment, while other possibilities are to use braces on the back of the teeth (invisible) or on the front of the teeth with clear brackets and tooth colored wires (invisible).

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Ask the Expert for advice on braces

Dr. Steven Leafe has been a dentist since 1973. He works at Alpharetta Aesthetic Dental Studio. Contact

them at 770-475-9630 or visit www.aadentalstudio.com


Q: What are classical symptoms of hormone imbalance?

A: Endometriosis, fibroids, abnormal Pap smears, breast tumors, abnormal menstrual bleeding, and prolonged menstrual bleeding.

Q: What other type of symptoms can be associated with hormone imbalance?

A: depression, anxiety, insomnia, anger issues, crying spells, poor sex drive, fatigue, headaches, mood swings, poor memory and other ailments.

Q: Are cancers linked with hormone imbalance?

A: The functional medicine community is discovering that even female cancers like breast, ovarian, uterine are linked to hormonal imbalance.

Q: When does hormone imbalance begin?

A: Hormonal imbalance can start early in life, sometimes even before we are born.

Q: What are some of the causes of this imbalance?

A: Nowadays both men and women are exposed to extra estrogens, called xeno-estrogens, from the foods we eat, the cosmetics or hygiene products we use, or the water we drink. We can additionally get excess

hormones from oral contraceptives or IUDs. There are other reasons hormones can become imbalanced: improper nutrition, stress, poor sleep, medications, aging, inflammation, liver dysfunction or chronic medical conditions.

Q: What is the burden of hormone imbalance?

A: Women do not feel well. Not feeling well can have impact with work, family and friends. Some women do not have the sexual drive that their spouse is looking for. This can cause marital problems, infidelity or divorce. In a job setting, poor memory or cognition can lead to lose of employment.

Q: Does the environment play a role?

A: More and more women are becoming hormonally imbalanced because of the changing world we live in. More chemicals are used on foods and cosmetics than ever before. The amount of environmental toxic exposure is increasing year after year. So the combination of phytoestrogens and xeno-estrogens can disrupt normal hormone balance.

Q: What is the biological basis of hormone imbalance?

A: The imbalance that is created is in the body is excess estrogens hormones and not enough progesterone hormone. A simple

concept to understand among hormones is this: estrogen is a growth hormone. Being a growth hormone, estrogen can cause certain bodily tissues to grow faster or more than they should. This is doubly worse if there is not enough progesterone hormone, as this hormone balances out the effects of estrogen.

Q: How does one fix hormone imbalance?

A: The good news is hormones can be be balanced. Hormonal balancing starts with knowing hormone levels. This is a simple Saliva test that can be done at home. Once the levels are known, one apply hormones as a cream or take as a pill on a daily basis.

Q: Is hormone therapy a good

idea for everyone?A: Hormone replacement

therapy has many benefits. Feeling better is just one, but reducing risk for heart disease, stroke, cancer, and osteoporosis are also achieved with proper hormone replacement. However, some women who have a history of breast cancer or other types of cancer need to understand the advantages and disadvantages associated with hormone replacement.

Q: Is hormone replacement safe?

A: That depends upon two things: not over-dosing on hormones, and administering hormones usually as a cream versus a pill.

33

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Ask the Expert for advice on hormone replacement

Dr. Krishna Doniparthi completed his residency in Family Medicine at the University of Alabama

in Tuscaloosa, Alabama where he was also chief residents. He and his family moved to Alpharetta,

Georgia in 2005 where he has been in family practice ever since. While exploring his passion for helping patients with weight gain and obesity struggles, Dr.

Doniparthi gained additional training in bariatric, anti-aging and functional medicine.

New doctor of audiology joins North Fulton ENTCUMMING, Ga. — Dr. Katrina Bowden recently joined North Fulton Ear, Nose and Throat Associates after relocating to the Atlanta area.

Bowden received her doctorate in audiology from Northeast Ohio Au.D. Consortium and her undergraduate degree in speech pathology and audiology at the University of Akron.

Bowden spent the past four years working in a large ENT practice in Ohio. Her areas of interest include comprehensive audiological evaluations, hearing aid fittings, balance testing and other neurodiagnostic evaluations. She enjoys working with both pediatric and adult populations.

She is serving patients at the Cumming office, 950 Sanders Road.

For more information, visit www.northfultonent.com or call 770-886-5821. Bowden


34

Timeline of Medical Appointments

* Information courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Group Health Cooperative.

Hep B

RV DTaP

Hib

PCV

IPV

FluM

MR

Varicella

Hep A

MC

V4

HPV

Tdap

Zoster

Prostate, B

reast Cancer

screens

Glaucom

a, Eye D

isease, Thyroid

Bone D

ensity, A

ortic A

neurysm

Shingles

Birth1 month2 months4 months6 months9 months12 months15 months18 months

19-23 months2-3 years4-6 years7-10 years11-12 years13-18 years19-21 years22-26 years27-49 years50-59 years60-64 years>64 years

For all persons in this category who meet the age requirements and who lack documentation of vac-cination or have no evidence of previous infection

Range of recommended ages for catch-upimmunization

Recommended if some other risk factor is present

Hep B - Hepatitis BRV - RotavirusDTaP - Diptheria, Tetanus, PertussisHib - Haemophilus influenza type BPCV - PneumococcalIPC - Inactivated Poliovirus

Flu - InfluenzaMMR - Measles, Mumps, RubellaHep A - Hepatitus AMCV4 - MeningococcalHPC - Human PapillomavirusTDaP - Tetanus, Diptheria, Pertussis


35


36

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Ask the Expert for advice on Coronary Artery DiseaseQ: What is Coronary Artery Disease? A: Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is the

narrowing of blood vessels that supply blood and oxygen to the heart. It occurs when fatty deposits called plaques made up of cholesterol, calcium and other substances build up inside the coronary arteries. Build-up of plaque narrows artery passages and reduces the amount of blood that can get to the heart. This can cause serious problems, including heart attack. CAD is the number one killer of men and women in the United States.

Q: What are the Symptoms of CAD?A: Symptoms vary; one person may have

very noticeable symptoms, whereas one person may not have any symptoms at all.

Chest pain or discomfort is the most common symptom of CAD. Pain usually occurs when the heart is not getting enough blood or oxygen. The degree of pain varies from person to person. Chest pain associated with CAD is usually brought on by activity or emotion and feels as if someone is squeezing your heart; pain or numbness in the arm or jaw may also be present. It sometimes can be confused for indigestion. Women, the elderly and people with diabetes often may experience other symptoms such as nausea, shortness of breath and general fatigue.

Q: How is CAD Diagnosed? What are the Risk Factors?

A: Diagnosis begins at your annual physical exam. Your doctor may ask you questions about your health behaviors and family history to see if you are at elevated risk.

Common risk factors include being older than 55, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, post-menopausal and having chronic kidney disease. Genetics and family history also have a prominent role.

If your doctor suspects that you have coronary artery disease, he or she may refer you to a cardiologist; the cardiologist may perform the following tests:• Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG), which

checks for problems with the electrical activity of your heart. An EKG can also show signs of an old or new heart attack.

• Blood tests. • Exercise electrocardiogram, commonly

called a “stress test.” This test checks for changes in your heart while you exercise.

• CT Scan (Coronary 64 slice CAT Scan)• Coronary angiogram. This test requires

injecting a special dye into your arteries to view blood flow through your heart.

Q: How is CAD Treated?A: You may be prescribed medications to

control risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Lifestyle changes are also crucial in preventing coronary artery disease from getting worse. Your doctor may tell you to: avoid or reduce sodium intake, eat a heart healthy diet low in saturated fats, cholesterol and trans-fats, exercise regularly, lose weight, manage blood sugar if you have diabetes, and stop smoking.

Procedures to treat CAD can include Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) and bypass surgery. PCI is a minimally invasive surgery that uses a thin tube called a catheter to thread wires and small balloons to open a blocked artery so that a stent (small metal tube) can be inserted to keep artery passageways open. Bypass surgery, on the other hand, is major open-heart surgery that uses healthy blood vessels to create detours around narrowed or blocked arteries.

The physicians at CPNA share board-certifications in Cardiovascular Disease,

Nuclear and Interventional Cardiology. For more information call 770 345-8565.


37

SPECIAL

Deborah C. Keel, CEO of North Fulton Hospital.

GAINESVILLE, Ga. — Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) recently learned that a grant application they participated in with Emory University and other Atlanta area hospitals has been approved by the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for a $10.7 million Health Care Innovations Award. This grant will fund a plan to build a collaborative network to support intensive care units in North Georgia. By combining specialty training for nurse practitioners and physician assistants with telemedicine intensive care services, the collaborative will improve critical care for patients in rural and underserved areas.

Announced May 8 by Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, this grant was one of only 26 awarded nationwide. These 26 are the first phase of the Health Care Innovation Awards, which were made possible by the federal health care law, the Affordable Care Act.

The grants were created to support innovative projects designed to save money, deliver high quality medical care and enhance the healthcare workforce.

"We can't wait to support innovative projects that will save money and make our health care system stronger," said Secretary Sebelius. "It's yet another way we are supporting local communities now in their efforts to provide better care and lower cost."

In addition to Emory University, NGHS is partnering with Saint Joseph's Health System, Southern Regional Medical Center and telemedicine provider Philips Healthcare to form the North Georgia Critical Care Collaborative (NGCCC). Jim Bailey, PhD, MD, NGHS' Chief Medical Informatics Officer, was instrumental in the construction of the cohort and the grant application and serves as co-director of the NGCCC along with Timothy Buchman, PhD, MD, director of the Emory Center for

Critical Care."As our population ages, more

and more Americans will require an admission to an intensive care unit," says Dr. Buchman "Those patients and their families depend on getting the right care – right now, through life-supporting treatments that require not only advanced technology but also a team of skilled caregivers."

"Northeast Georgia Health System is pleased to be part of such an important initiative that will improve the quality of critical care throughout the northeast Georgia region we serve," adds Dr. Bailey. "As a regional provider of tertiary care services in northeast Georgia, NGHS is excited to partner with Emory and the other collaborative partners in developing an innovative ICU care model that can help the entire region."

The initiative's intent is to utilize the educational resources of Emory University to train nurse practitioners and physician assistants as critical care specialists and integrate telemedicine ICU ("tele-ICU") services into community hospitals, which will give patients, families, and community hospitals the benefit of around-the-clock, two-way audiovisual consultation, monitoring and advice from a highly

experienced ICU doctor and critical care nurse working with a specially trained provider continuously present in the community ICU. The intensivists in the ICU at NGMC will eventually be able to serve as the hub for the surrounding community hospitals in northeast Georgia to provide this important consulting service, allowing their patients to stay closer to home for critical care services. Funds to start the initiative will be available this year, and then the partner organizations will start implementing the project, which is expected to be fully implemented no later than early 2015.

Across the country, delivery of quality critical care is under extreme pressure because of the decrease in critical care providers, causing many intensive care units to close and requiring families to travel far from home seeking increasingly scarce ICU beds, often leaving their jobs and families at home.

"We are thrilled that the grant for this innovative ICU care model has been awarded so that we can help support the critical care services in northeast Georgia and help to keep families close to home during critical illness," says Carol H. Burrell, President and CEO of NGHS.

North Georgia Critical Care collaborative receives $10.7 M grant to improve critical care servicesNortheast Georgia Health System key partner in collaborative

ROSWELL, Ga. — North Fulton Hospital announced that it has received a three-year Accreditation Award with Commendation from the American College of Surgeon's Commission on Cancer (CoC). The accreditation acknowledges North Fulton Hospital as a Community Cancer Center.

The hospital was voluntarily evaluated through a rigorous on-site survey process in April. During the survey, the CoC gathered extensive performance information and determined that the hospital had demonstrated its ability to provide high-quality comprehensive cancer programs that offer the entire spectrum of cancer-control activities — from prevention and early diagnosis to rehabilitation and long-term follow-up.

"By achieving this accreditation, we have assured our patients, their family, and our staff of a high standard of cancer care in the heart of North Fulton," said Deborah C. Keel, CEO of North Fulton Hospital.

For more, visit www.nfultonhospital.com.

North Fulton Hospital receives Cancer Program Accreditation


38

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Ask the Expert for advice on BotoxQ: How long have Georgia dentists been

able to administer Botox? A: On July 9 of this year, the Georgia Board

of Dentistry approved the rule to allow Georgia dentists to administer both Botox and dermal fillers. The first certification course required by the state was offered in September and those attending were the first of a small group of dentists approved to perform these procedures.

Q: Why dentists? A: For dentists this is an obvious extension of

what we do daily. Our dental school background in head and neck anatomy is more extensive than that even in medical school, and we are working every day with the nerves and muscles of facial expression. Additionally, we are also very comfortable giving injections in the facial areas since we do it all day long.

Q: How does this fit into dental practices? A: Many of us do a lot of cosmetic dentistry

and now not only can we create beautiful smiles, but also frame that picture with a complimentary beautiful face. We now have the capabilities to really accomplish “total facial esthetics” on all of our patients. Another way these treatments fit into the dental practice is that Botox and dermal fillers do need to be re-done on a three, six, or twelve month basis, which falls right into our

cleaning intervals for our patients.

Q: Are there any concerns about having these procedures done?

A: Not really. None of these procedures are permanent. However, having said that, it is important that the patient go to a professional who has knowledge of facial anatomy and is adequately certified. We have all seen those “Botox gone bad” pictures and no one wants that experience. If your dentist is performing these

procedures, it would not hurt to ask for his/her certification from the Georgia Board of Dentistry. No dentist is legal nor should they be utilizing these procedures in their practice without being adequately trained or certified.

Q: Do you think these types of procedures will be routine in dental offices in the future?

A: That is a great question. Dental practices today vary greatly in scope of treatment. Some simply provide basic services while others maintain a high state of the art level by providing more extensive cosmetic procedures. Because of this variation of types of practices, I don’t feel that all dental practices will embrace these procedures, nor should they if they are not committed to performing this type of work at a high level.

About Dr. Coe: Dr. Coe is a general dentist who started his practice in Roswell in 1984. The focal point of the practice is cosmetics, but he also enjoys the

wonderful relationships with the many families that have come to him over the years. He is a member of the American Dental Association, Northern District

Dental Society, the Seattle Study Club of Atlanta, and the American Academy of Facial Esthetics. He has two daughters, Sterling and Kenna, in twelve and ninth grades at King’s Ridge Christian School. He and his wife Kimberly are

active members of North Point Community Church.

When you need a doctor,we’re here for you.

We treat common illnesses and injuries for adults and children.• Lacerations and burns• Sprains, strains and fractures• Cough / cold / asthma• Vomiting and Diarrhea• Flu and tetanus vaccinations• Work-related injuries• Sports Physicals• Drug screening• Employment and DOT physicals

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39

Forsyth County residents quite healthy in spite of insufficient healthy food choicesFORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — In spite of a high percentage of fast food restaurants and insufficient access to healthy food, Forsyth County residents are losing weight and staying active.

The County Health Rankings and Roadmaps, developed by the University of Wisconsin's Population for Health Institute, determines a county's health from factors such as smoking, physical activity, drinking and various physical environment factors.

National benchmarks determine the county ranking for each health factor and from there, determine the overall county ranking.

Forsyth County ranked second in the state for healthiest counties, falling short of the top spot to Fayette County.

Forsyth County falls below the national average in obesity, ranking 23 percent, compared to the benchmark of 25 percent, and in physical inactivity, with a ranking of 20 percent compared to the benchmark of 21 percent.

Forsyth County did not have positive rankings for several physical environment factors.

The county ranked at 48 percent for access to fast food, while Fayette County ranked at 40 percent.

Both counties ranked higher than the national benchmark of 25 percent.

Trust for America's Health's national obesity statistics for 2012 place Georgia's obesity rate at 28 percent, ranking the state 24th nationally.

The county is also more limited in access to healthy foods, coming in at 10 percent compared to only 6 percent in Fayette County and 0 percent for the national benchmark.

The study provides the assumption that residents of Forsyth County may eat poorly, but maintain an adequate amount of physical activity to ward off obesity.

The study shows the county as having less

access to recreational facilities than the national benchmark, but when it comes to providing outdoor recreation, the county isn't lacking.

"Forsyth County's wide variety of parks and recreational offerings provide countless ways for citizens to stay active, whether that be by taking part in organized sports, hiking up Sawnee Mountain, working out at one of the three recreation centers or participating in a martial arts class," said Jodi Gardner, spokeswoman for the county.

Forsyth County's parks and recreation system includes approximately 2,000 acres of parks with a total of about 36 miles of trails available for residents.

Trails are designed to be multi-functional so residents can rollerblade, walk, run or ride bikes.

The county has 22 parks and recreation facilities, plus three recreation centers, which include multi-purpose athletics fields, tennis courts, playgrounds, lake access, camping, trails, running tracks, dog parks, indoor gyms and a skate park.

"I love to run at the Big Creek Greenway," said Haidee Bell, a county resident. "I often take my kids to Sawnee Mountain to hike to the top."

ABBY BREAUX/Staff

David Byrd, 24, a student at North Georgia College and State University, rides his bike at Central Park in North Forsyth. Byrd said he en-joys riding his bike because he is active and loves to be outdoors.

ABBY BREAUX/Staff

Forsyth County residents exercise at Central Park.

Ambulance fully funded for Children's in ForsythCUMMING, Ga. — A neonatal ambulance will now be servicing Forsyth County residents seven days a week.

"Everything that can be done in an emergency room or an intensive care unit can be done inside that ambulance," said Beth Buursema, community outreach liaison, Children's Healthcare at Forsyth.

About $750,000 was raised for the ambulance that will be housed at the year-old facility at Avenue Forsyth, 410 Peachtree Parkway in Cumming.

Buursema said fundraising will continue to finance the ambulance, staff and equipment for a second

year.It takes four specially

trained staff members, including a driver. The ambulances are tailored to the unique needs of children.

"The nurses at these ambulances have to be ICU trained nurses," Buursema said. "Sometimes you are making life and death decisions in the field."

Some of the recent fundraising events that helped solidify the ambulance included $5,500 raised by the Alpharetta Athletic Club Swim Team and money raised at Tam's Restaurant in Cumming.

This marks the seventh dedicated ambulance for

Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. On its body, the American Proteins logo in addition to Children's name will identify the Forsyth-centric ICU on wheels. A $360,000 donation by American Proteins paid for the body and equipment inside. All the CHoA ambulances display the names of its donors.

Buursema said the ambulance will not be dispatched by 911 to a home or to the scene of an accident. The CHoA helicopters are provided in those life-threatening situations.

The neonatal ambulance will, however, pick up patients at area hospitals and doctor's offices and transport them to

Children's at Scottish Rite or Children's at Egleston.

And it's not only young children who will benefit from the new ambulance.

"We will see patients up to the age of 21," Buursema said.

Visit www.choa.org for more information.


40

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Before Johns Creek Mayor Mike Bodker made his annual State of the City address, Emory Johns Creek Hospital Chief Executive Office Craig McCoy gave his own address about significant events at

the hospital in 2011.He began by revealing

that Feb. 5 was the hospital's fifth-year anniversary. He said people often ask him just what the hospital does —is it just some outpost of Emory?

"We're a full-service general acute care hospital with 110 rooms," he said.

At first, EJC was a joint venture between Emory and the Hospital Corporation of America and received guidance primarily from HCA's headquarters in Nashville, Tenn.

"That changed in March of [last] year, when the hospital became 100-percent owned by Emory," he said.

He said Emory's goal is to grow the hospital, but not at the expense of quality, safety and patient satisfaction. Since its founding, patient volume has risen, while the number of providers has risen from 550 to 900. These personnel have more than 50 specialties.

"The result of that is a very strong financial hospital," McCoy said.

This fiscal year, the hospital will invest $7 million

into the facility and the Johns Creek community.

One of the hospital's strengths is its emergency cardiology program. Although the hospital does not do open-heart surgery, its doctors have restored blood flow to a heart during a heart attack in an average of 65 minutes, better than the general standard of 90 minutes. EJC also features a neonatal unit capable of caring for premature babies born as early as 24 weeks.

During the summer of 2011, the Joint Commission named EJC a primary stroke care center, while the American College of Radiology named it a breast imaging center of excellence. Four insurance companies have named the hospital a center of excellence as well.

USA Today also named EJC as one of the top six hospitals in metro Atlanta, hospitals that performed better than the national average.

"We were the only hospital north of the Perimeter," he said.

Emory Johns Creek CEO gives 'state of hospital' addressTells of hospital's 2011 achievements

SPECIAL

CUMMING, Ga. — Northside Hospital-Forsyth recently purchased a new cross trainer exercise machine to serve patients in the hospital's pulmonary rehab program.

The purchase was made possible through donations made in memory and honor of Kelly Dalton Johnston, of Cumming, who spent 3.5 years as a patient in pulmonary rehab for treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Johnston passed away Dec. 5, 2011. He was 64.On March 6, a reception was held at the hospital to honor his

life and recognize $3,900 in donations.

Family, friends remember loved one


41

Q: What is Zerona?A: Zerona is a patented low-level

laser system specifically designed to contour the body by losing Inches in circumference off specific body areas (waist, hips, thighs) without any pain, downtime, needles or surgery.

Q: What results can I expect?A: In a double blind, randomized,

placebo controlled study, patients were treated six times over a two week period and lost on average 3.5 inches in combined circumferential measurements of their waist hips and bilateral thighs.

Q: Can all patients benefit?A: Our clinical research has shown

that patients, on average, lost 3.5 inches in circumference off hips, waist and thighs. To maximize the chances of every patient responding as significantly or better, three things are important to consider.

Clinically obese patients will benefit from Zerona. To show a significant benefit, doing series of treatments back to back is recommended. Many centers treating obesity will combine Zerona

with a Weight Managagent program.

Q: What areas of the body can I treat?

A: Essentially all parts of the body where subcutaneous deposits of fat can be found may be treated with Zerona, especially those resistant to diet and exercise. Most patients start with treating their waist, hips and thighs as these can be treated simultaneously with the 5 lasers of Zerona.

Q: Is it safe?A: Yes. Zerona works on the principle

of photochemistry whereby laser light is used to accelerate naturally occurring processes within cells. The treatment is painless and normal activities can be resumed immediately.

Q: When can patients start noticing results?

A: This depends on how effectively their lymphatic system processes the liberated fat. Age and lifestyle are but a few parameters that may influence the rate of improvement. To optimize processing, it is recommended that patients stay optimally hydrated (by

drinking 64 ounces of water spread throughout the day and cutting back on diuretics) and that they mobilize their lymphatic system through gentle physical activity (daily 30 minute walk or mild exercise). The ideal patient should begin to notice a difference in how their clothes fit at the time of their 4th treatment.

Q: How long will results last?A: Zerona does not destroy fat

cells but empties them of their content which means that fat cells are capable of re-storing fat should the patient have a chronic nutritional imbalance. A balanced nutritional lifestyle is recommended to ensure long-term improvement. Patients who do not will see their improvement decrease over time. The FDA has also deemed appropriate not to make use

of the word temporary in the approval, suggesting that, provided patients that adhere to a healthy lifestyle (whereby the balance their food intake with their energy expenditure), results should be permanent.

Q: How does Zerona compare with other body slimming technologies?

A: Zerona is the only technology that has been clinically validated in peer-reviewed journals to consistently produce a 3.5 inch circumferential reduction in waist, hips and thighs. Zerona is the only truly non-invasive device that safely achieves significant results over a short period of time.

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Ask the Expert for advice on laser therapy

Dr. Krishna Doniparthi completed his residency in Family Medicine at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa,

Alabama where he was also chief residents. He and his family moved to Alpharetta, Georgia in 2005 where he

has been in family practice ever since. While exploring his passion for helping patients with weight gain and

obesity struggles, Dr. Doniparthi gained additional training in bariatric, anti-aging and functional medicine.

Emory Johns Creek doctor receives prestigious awardJOHNS CREEK, Ga. — An Emory Johns Creek Hospital doctor has received the 2012 Outstanding Clinician Award from the Emory University Department of Medicine.

Dr. Adedapo Odetoyinbo was nominated by the nursing leadership and hospital administration at Emory Johns Creek Hospital.

"We affectionately call him "Dr. O," said Nurse Lori Hinton, director of the third floor medical unit at Emory Johns Creek Hospital. "For us, it means Dr. Outstanding."

For more information, visit www.emoryjohnscreek.com. odetoyinBo


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Ask the Expert for advice on balletQ: What is ballet? A: An artistic dance form performed

to music using precise and highly formalized set steps and gestures.

Q: What is involved? A: Most dancers of any style, require

anywhere from 2-9 hours a week/per class, per style. Ballet for beginners can be taught in one hour increments and as the dancers advance, they begin increasing their time of class and training. Dancers need to have good cardiovascular endurance as they are working hard for long periods of time especially when performing segments of leaps and quick movement. Flexibility, muscular strength and dedication are all involved in a dancer’s commitment. Many toddler dancers; however, are able to simply enjoy the movement, skills and confidence that come from being a part of a dance class. Most studios offer a variety of dance classes for the most beginner student to the advanced/pre-professional dancer. Most studios begin teaching ballet at the young age of 2!

Q: How much does it cost to participate in ballet?

A: The cost will vary depending upon the performances, costumes and

the number of hours in weekly classes. Q: What is the history of ballet? A: The word ballet is French in

origin, yet in the early 1400’s Domenico di Piacenza, an Italian, described theatrical dances called balletto. Lavish pageants of music and dance were held during which the men were fully garbed in wigs, blouses, jackets and bloomers. The women wore ornate gowns of many layers, the weight of which was encumbering to stand in, let alone perform in. The troupes, composed of hundreds, included not only hired performers, but members of the duke’s court whose purpose it was to impress the nobility of neighboring states. The performances accompanied elaborate banquets, each course of the meal was prefaced by a dance called an “entrée”.

Q: What age people participate in ballet?

A: Ballet lessons exist for the very young and the very young at heart. In truth, ballet lessons can be offered to children as young as two years old. These are fun introductory classes where the focus is balance, increasing skills such as rhythm, galloping and skipping as well as beginner ballet combinations and terminology. Some

ballet lessons are even “mommy and me” types, where both parent and child participate.

Q: How long does it take to study ballet?

A: This is a difficult question to answer, as even professional dancers continue to work on developing and refining their technique throughout their career. So for most dancers there is no such thing as ‘mastering ballet technique’- we will continue to work on improving technique for as long as we are dancing!

Q: Can anyone do ballet? A: Yes, your level of physical fitness

will determine your initial abilities yet with continued training could improve your strength, endurance and flexibility.

Q: Is it for men or women? A: Ballet is an art that is not gender

specific.Q: What are the health benefits of

ballet? A: The benefits are close to infinite.

Ballet can increase your strength, your

flexibility, your poise, grace and self-esteem. Ballet can also benefit as an outlet for emotional expression relieving stress and anxiety.

Q: Are there any other dance options for style?

A: There are as many styles of dance as there are dancers in the world. Some of the most popular styles include: ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, hip-hop, lyrical, contemporary, and Irish.

Q: What styles do most studios offer?

A: Jazz, hip-hop, Irish, lyrical, contemporary, tap, pointe, Broadway jazz, acro-cheer, turns/leaps, boys only, hip hop, adult dance and fitness classes, mommy & me sessions, kinder-gym, creative movement, voice, acting, auditioning techniques, musical theatre, p e r f o r m a n c e enhancing classes and 5 performing companies.

Niki Jernigan-Watkins runs Cumming Dance Academy, Inc. For more visit www.cummingdanceacademy.com,

call 770.781.4922 and/or follow them online at www.facebook.com/cummingdanceacademy.

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Ask the Expert for advice on low testosteroneQ: What is

Testosterone?A: Men’s bodies

produce the hormone testosterone in their testes. In men, testosterone helps maintain sex drive, sperm production, bone density, muscle strength, muscle mass, fat distribution, and red blood cell production.

Q: How can Testosterone levels become low?

A: Testosterone can become naturally low in men over 40. If your levels are in the range of the lower one third of normal, you qualify for treatment.

Q: What Health issues are associated with Testosterone deficiency?

A: Hypogonadism is a disorder resulting from a low testosterone level in the male body. Testosterone

affects bone mass, fat distribution, and muscle development. In addition, Testosterone maintains energy levels, fertility, and sex drive.

Q: Does a low Testosterone level cause the signs and symptoms of aging?

A: Testosterone deficiency can have several effects on the body which can be associated with symptoms of aging including decreased sexual function, loss of bone density, loss of muscle mass, increase in fat mass, reduced muscle strength, memory loss, mood changes and depression.

Q: Is Low Testosterone treatable?

A: Yes. Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) can supplement your

bodies naturally occurring Testosterone with bio-identical Testosterone to bring levels to a high age-adjusted normal level.

Q: How much does

treatment cost?A: The cost is usually

the amount of the co-pay plus any unmet deductible.

Q: Is Testosterone Replacement Therapy safe?

A: If done correctly, replacing Testosterone is safe. Patients undergoing treatment are closely monitored throughout the treatment program to measure Testosterone and keep them safely at a high age-adjusted normal level.

Q: How do I qualify for Testosterone Replacement Therapy?

A: A simple blood test is

drawn which will reveal your levels. Results are given usually within 4 days.

Q: Does TRT stimulate my body’s natural production of Testosterone?

A: No. TRT is supplementing what your body is not producing in sufficient quantity.

Q: What results are possible with TRT?

A: Results vary among patients from mild changes

in energy and physical changes to dramatic changes with some patients experiencing significant decreases in body fat percentages and muscle mass increase as well as enhanced energy levels, better sleep patterns and increase sexual drive.

Contact AgeWell Men's Institute at 770-559-5834 to schedule a consult or visit www.agewellmensinstitute.com. 3596

Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta.

ATLANTA -- Emory University Hospital Midtown (EUHM) has been selected as one of 90 hospitals across the U.S., and one of seven in Georgia, to participate in a new national effort to improve breastfeeding rates in states where rates are currently the lowest. Although breastfeeding is one of the most effective preventive health measures for infants and mothers, half of the babies born in the U.S. are given formula within the first week of life. By nine months of age, only 31 percent of babies are breastfeeding at all.

The announcement comes as more than 170 countries around the globe celebrate World Breastfeeding Week from Aug. 1-7. The week is designed to encourage breastfeeding and improve the health of babies around the world.

The new, 22-month initiative, called Best Fed Beginnings (http://www.nichq.org/our_projects/cdcbreastfeeding.html), seeks to reverse these trends by dramatically increasing the number of U.S. hospitals implementing a proven model for maternity services that better supports a new mother's choice to breastfeed.

"We recognize that for women who plan to breastfeed, the hospital experience strongly influences a mother's ability to start and continue breastfeeding," says Ruth Simmons, BSN, RNC-LRN, IBCLC, Coordinator of Lactation Support Services, Emory University Hospital Midtown. "This new program shows our commitment to support mothers' wishes after delivery." Simmons is leading the Best Fed Beginnings program at EUHM.

Emory University Hospital Midtown selected for national program to increase breastfeeding rates


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NF Hospital welcomes orthopedic trauma specialistROSWELL, Ga. — North Fulton Hospital announced a new orthopedic traumatologist had joined its staff.

Dr. Jeffrey Garrett will play a critical role in treating patients with traumatic injuries at North Fulton Hospital's state-designated Level II Adult Trauma Center.

An orthopedic traumatologist has advanced training in the handling of complex, multiple injuries.

"I am excited to join the trauma team at North Fulton Hospital and assist in the high level of care patients receive there," Garrett said.

Visit www.nfultonhospital.com for more information. Garrett

Americans are a giving people. Some of us give of our time and some of us give of our money, but some give of themselves as participants in medical research. This is an opportunity to seek help for themselves while also helping the medical community to better understand diseases and potential treatments for those diseases. The Atlanta Institute of Medicine & Research is one of those clinical facilities that conducts medical studies of diseases specific to the central nervous system; conditions such as ADHD, depression, insomnia, chronic pain, fybromyalgia, and anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, and panic disorder.

Depression, Anxiety, Insomnia, ADHD and other such conditions have an impact not only on the individual with symptoms but on the entire family as well. These conditions are more common than most people realize. Since the economic

collapse of 2008, millions of Americans have lost their jobs and as a result have lost their health insurance and access to healthcare. Conditions that were once treated and stable are now adversely impacting one’s quality of life.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder, also known as the “worrying disease” affects 40 million American adults or 18% of the population and is the number one mental health problem affecting America.

Depressive Disorders affect approximately 18.8 million American adults, or about 9.5% of the general population 18 and older. The National Institute of Mental Health reports that 41% of individuals with depression are too embarrassed to seek help and that 80% are not currently receiving treatment. Corporate managers and executives should also heed the following statistic: depression results in more than a $15 billion loss each year in absenteeism and lost productivity.

What is the connection between this information and medical research? Clinical trials are necessary before any new drug or medical treatment becomes available to the general public. The Food and Drug Administration requires data from clinical trials to support the effectiveness of any product before it can be approved and prescribed by your physician.

Clinical trials are conducted at facilities such as the Atlanta Institute of Medicine & Research under the supervision of its Medical Director, Dr. Angelo Sambunaris. Dr. Sambunaris, a psychiatrist trained at The University of Colorado, was a former Research Officer in the Public Health Service and conducted clinical research at the National Institute of Mental Health. Later he served as a staff psychiatrist at Yale University’s Department of Psychiatry before opening the Atlanta Institute of Medicine & Research in 1998. His clinical focus is at the medical or

biological level of disease. Modern medicine treats these disorders for what they are…… medical conditions that affect brain chemistry.

Why consider a clinical trial? Participants in clinical trials play a more active role in their own health care. They gain access to new research options before they are widely available and in so doing, help others and themselves by contributing to medical research. Some individuals participate hoping for a better outcome. Others are seeking a research level diagnostic evaluation, and still others participate due to financial constraints or lack of access to standard healthcare. Whatever your reason, the decision to participate is yours.

One of the features that differentiates the Atlanta Institute of Medicine & Research from other clinics is that Dr. Sambunaris believes that his research facility

has a responsibility to treat patients until they feel that their condition improves, even if participation in a clinical trial does not provide relief. This treatment is provided by Dr. Sambunaris through a free After-Study Care program.

Depression, anxiety, and insomnia. . . . common occurrences in more American families than most people realize. But the family does not have to be torn apart by conditions such as these. Dr. Sambunaris and the staff at the Atlanta Institute of Medicine & Research are dedicated to staying at the forefront of pharmaceutical research for the benefit of future generations of families just like yours.

Medical research means giving of ourselves

Dr. Angelo Sambunaris, M.D., Atlanta Institute of Medicine and Research, 770-817-9200.


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Ask the Expert for advice on OsteoporosisQ: What is Osteoporosis?A: Osteoporosis is a condition

in which bones become less dense, fragile and more susceptible to fracture as we age. Fractures generally occur in the hips, wrists or spine.

Gradual bone loss over time is normal, but rapid bone loss can lead to osteoporosis. Bone loss with osteoporosis can be so tremendous that even a minor slip or a cough can cause a fracture.

Thankfully, there are many things you can do to reduce your risk by practicing a healthy lifestyle.

Q: What are the Symptoms?A: Unfortunately, osteoporosis is a

silent disease and you may not know you have it until you fracture or break a bone. As bones become weaker and your osteoporosis worsens, you may show signs and symptoms such as:• Back pain, caused by a fractured

or collapsed vertebra• Loss of height over time• A stooped posture• A bone fracture that occurs much

more easily than expected

Q: What are the Risk Factors? A: Osteoporosis affects men

and women of all races, but women ---especially post-menopausal white and Asian women— have the highest risk of developing the disease. In fact, of the 10 million Americans currently living with osteoporosis, 80 percent are women. Other risk factors include: • A sedentary lifestyle• Previous fractures not caused by

trauma• A history of anorexia• Being small and thin• Age• Having osteopenia, or low bone

density It’s also important to know that

certain medications also can sap bone strength too, so make sure you discuss your prescriptions with your doctor.

Q: How is Osteoporosis

Diagnosed?A: The only way to diagnose

osteoporosis and determine your risk for fracture is a bone density test, a

safe and painless exam that measures bone mineral density. The results help you and your doctor decide whether to begin a prevention or treatment program. The denser your bones, the stronger they generally are and the less likely they are to break.

Q: How is Osteoporosis Treated?

A: Osteoporosis can be treated using oral (weekly or monthly), injections (every 6 months or daily for 2 years), or with a once-- year infusion. You can discuss it with your doctor to see which treatment is the best option for you.

Q: How Can I Reduce My Risk of Getting Osteoporosis?

A: The best treatment for osteoporosis is prevention, and there are many things you can do to slow down or even stop bone loss before

damage occurs including: • Doing at least 30 minutes of

weight-bearing exercise each day. • Getting adequate amounts of

calcium and Vitamin D from dietary sources like low-fat dairy products, collard greens, fatty fish such as salmon, egg yolks and Vitamin D-fortified OJ.

• Limiting alcohol consumption.• Limiting caffeine consumption.• Quit smoking. Smokers have a

significantly greater risk of spine and hip fractures than non-smokers. Good news though---the risk of osteoporosis completely diminishes after five years of quitting smoking.

Dr. Eun Chung is aboard certified in internal medicine and rheumatology. She specializes in general

rheumatology, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and scleroderma. She can be reached at 770- 521-1587.


46

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Ask the Expert for advice on car seatsQ: How Long Should

Children Ride Facing the Back of the Car?

A: According to a 2008 article in the professional journal Pediatrics, children under age two are 75% safer rear facing than forward facing. In fact, children in their second year of life are over five times (500%) less likely to be seriously injured or die in a crash rear facing than forward facing.

When a forward facing child is in a frontal crash, the car seat harness system (straps) protects and restrains the infant’s body, but not the head. This is true even for babies who have strong neck muscles and good head control. Because babies have heavier heads and fragile necks, their neck bones can actually separate during a frontal car crash, allowing the spinal cord to be severely damaged. This can result in

paralysis or even death.

In contrast, when a child is riding rear-facing in a frontal crash, the back of the car seat, along with the seat’s harness system, cradles and protects the infant’s head, neck, and torso. Children in Sweden ride rear facing until they are three to five years old and experience far lower rates of traffic deaths and injuries than in the US. Although most safety seats sold in the U.S. are not designed to be used rear facing as long as those in Sweden, safety experts recommend that children ride rear facing as long as possible up to the limit set by the car seat manufacturer, and at least until they are two years old.

(Note, even though the legs may seem crowded for a child in a rear-facing car seat, studies show more leg injuries to children riding forward facing than to children riding rear-facing.)

Since nearly 80 percent of men will have prostate cancer by the age of 80, finding out the ways to maximize prostate health or to treat a prostate problem is essential. Every year, over 225,000 men are diagnosed and treated for prostate cancer, and almost 30,000 men per year will die from the disease.

There are a few factors that may add to the risk of prostate cancer. They include family history, race and diet as well as age. African American men have a substantially higher risk of prostate cancer than white men, including Hispanic men. In addition, the likelihood of developing prostate cancer increases with age. Most cancers are found in men over the age of 65; however, trends indicate that the number of men age 55 to 65 who have prostate cancer is increasing.

Most of the time, prostate cancer does not initially cause symptoms. By the time symptoms do occur, the disease may have spread beyond the prostate. Symptoms of prostate cancer may include not being able to urinate, difficulty starting or stopping the flow of urine, frequent urination, weak flow of urine, urine flow that starts and stops, pain or burning during urination, difficulty having an erection, blood in the urine or semen and frequent pain in the lower back, hips or upper thighs.

As men age, their prostate may grow and block the flow of urine or interfere with sexual function. This common condition, called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is not cancer, but it can cause many of the same symptoms as prostate cancer. Although BPH may not be a threat to life, it may require treatment with medicine or surgery to relieve symptoms. An infection or inflammation of the prostate, called prostatitis, may also cause many of the same symptoms as prostate cancer. It is important to check with a doctor to determine whether or not the symptoms are caused by prostate cancer.

So, what can be done to fight prostate disease and prostate cancer? Well, there are few general guidelines that might help. Make changes to diet. Studies show that a diet low in fiber and high in red meat content can contribute to prostate cancer. Additionally, if a man is over the age of 40, they need tobe sure to have a regular annual physical with aphysician. The physician should be performing a DRE (a digital rectal exam) and taking blood to determine your PSA (prostate specific antigen) count. These two tests combined will help determine if cancer is present. If cancer is suspected based on the findings of those tests, a biopsy will be performed. The biopsy will then tell your doctor what level of

cancer is present and how much of the gland is affected by the cancer.

Neither of these tests is perfect. Most men with an elevated PSA level do not have prostate cancer (false positives), and some men with prostate cancer have a low PSA level (false negatives). The DRE is also associated with false positives and false negatives. Using the DRE and PSA together will miss fewer cancers (greater sensitivity) but also increases the number of false positives and subsequent biopsies in men without cancer (lower specificity).

The National Cancer Institute’s (NCI) Early Detection Research Network (EDRN) has a Prostate Collaborative Group that is exploring a variety of strategies to find better ways to detect prostate cancer early. In addition, NCI’s prostate cancer Specialized Program of Research Excellence (SPORE) is funding projects to identify new diagnostic and prognostic biological markers, or biomarkers, of prostate cancer besides PSA.

Combined, these findings make up a Gleason score and will help in determining what course of treatment is the best. There are many treatment options available for prostate cancer, and it is imperative to discuss all of your options with your physician. Some of the treatments include:

Radical prostatectomy – complete removal of the prostate by means of a regular surgery.

Robotic prostatectomy – a surgery performed by a robot (operated by your physician) to remove the prostate. Advantages include a shorter recovery period, minimal incisions and less pain.

There are two kinds of radiation treatments available. The typical high-powered radioactive waves are used to kill the cancer cells or radioactive seeds. These pellets are inserted with a needle by a doctor into the prostate, and the radioactive seeds kill off the cancer cells from within.

Hormone therapy is also used as treatment for prostate cancer. Because the production of the male hormone testosterone actually causes cancer to grow, this therapy stops the growth by eliminating testosterone.

One new therapy that is just gaining popularity for treatment of prostate cancer is cryotherapy in which the prostate gland is actually frozen in order to eliminate the cancer within the gland.

Still some men choose to wait and observe. This ‘watchful waiting’ is approved by some physicians in cases where the cancer is not spreading quickly and has not spread to any other areas of the body.

As with any health issue, address all of concerns about prostate health with a physician. For more information on prostate health, visit www.prostatehealthguide.com.

- Source: www.cancer.gov.

Prostate Cancer Overview


47

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Ask the Expert for advice on booster seatsQ: When can my child

stop using a booster seat?

A: Under the new Georgia Law, children must be in a Belt Positioning Booster Seat until either 4 feet 9 inches tall or 8 years of age.

Should age trump height? Absolutely not! Consider this. Would you allow your child to ride a roller coaster if his height were under the recommended height? A car crash can be like an unexpected roller coaster ride. Proper restraint system

can be life saving!

When a child shorter than 4 feet 9 inches sits in a regular car seat without a booster, he will need to slouch forward in order to get his legs to bend at the edge of the seat. This results in the lap belt riding over the child’s abdomen rather than his lower hips and the shoulder belt riding over his neck rather than his collar bone. Consequently, for comfort reasons, many children try to place the shoulder belt behind their backs or under their arm. Without the use of

a booster seat, children may sustain severe neck injuries and can be ejected from the vehicle during an accident.

Belt-positioning booster seats should be used until

the vehicle seat belt fits properly, typically when they have reached 4 feet 9 inches tall and are between 8 and 12 years of age. Please go to our website, at http://www.roswellpediatrics.com/

booster-seats.php or www.carseat.org to view the “Boosters are for Big Kids – 5 Step Test” that shows you how to judge if your child is ready to leave the booster seat.

ALPHARETTA3400-C Old Milton Pkwy, Suite 545Alpharetta, GA 30005Phone: 770-751-0800

www.RoswellPediatrics.com

Fredric Flax, M.D. Evan Landis, M.D. Judith Tolkan, M.D. Howard Silverman, M.D. Edward Salzberg, M.D. Catherine Bowman, M.D.

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ROSWELL PEDIATRICCENTER, P.C.

CRABAPPLE12385 Crabapple Rd, Suite 100Alpharetta, GA 30004Phone: 770-343-9900

CUMMING110 North Corners Pkwy, Suite 100Cumming, GA 30040Phone: 770-888-2882


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Ask the Expert for advice on sleep apneaQ: What is sleep apnea?A: Sleep apnea is the cessation

of breathing during sleep, depriving major organs and body parts from critical oxygen levels.

Q: What are the signs that I may have sleep apnea?• Snoring• Daytime sleepiness• Fractured teeth and dental work• Large tonsils, adenoids, soft

palate, and uvula• Small chin• You have caused an auto

accident by falling asleep while driving

• Neck size greater than 17• You’ve had a stroke, heart

attack, diabetes, acid reflux• You clench or grind your teeth

Q: How can I determine if I have sleep apnea?• A simple screening questionnaire

can reveal if you may be predisposed to sleep apnea and a candidate for a more in-depth study.

• The questionnaire can be evaluated by a dentist, certified in dental sleep medicine, who if

deemed necessary can order an in-lab overnight sleep study or an at-home sleep study.

• Once the results are obtained a board certified sleep physician will evaluate the results to determine if you have sleep apnea and if you have mild-moderate or severe sleep apnea.

Q: What are the treatments for sleep apnea?

A: There are many alternatives to treating sleep apnea ranging from:• Diet and exercise• Surgical removal of uvula, soft

palate, tonsils, adenoids, or nasal turbonates.

• A c-pap machine, which is the treatment of choice for patients with severe sleep apnea.

• An intra-oral sleep appliance if you have been diagnosed with mild-moderate sleep apnea or you will not wear the prescribed

c-pap machine.

Q: How comfortable are the appliances?

A: Many people who need a c-pap machine find the physical changes and overall health results to far outweigh any inconvenience and discomfort during its use. Records show that 50% of people prescribed a c-pap machine do not wear it at all in 6 months. If that is the case, with a physician’s approval, an intra-oral sleep appliance can be made. People who have an intra-oral sleep apnea appliance tolerate this treatment extremely well and find is use to be life-changing.

Dr. Steven Leafe has been a dentist since 1973. He works at Alpharetta Aesthetic Dental Studio. Contact

them at 770-475-9630 or visit www.aadentalstudio.com

MILTON, Ga. — Milton is the site of the first American Family Care urgent care clinic in north Atlanta, and the first even in the entire state.

Randy Johansen, president of American Family Care, an Alabama-based medical company, said at the official opening of the office Oct. 2 that the company has plans to increase their presence in Georgia – starting with the North Fulton area.

"The future is here in the north Atlanta area," he said. "We're looking to be in Atlanta for a long time."

Another office is being built at the Prado in Sandy Springs, with at least two more coming next year.

"The population appeals to us," Johansen said, explaining why his company chose Milton. "There are opportunities here and the demographics appeal to us."

Founder Bruce Irwin put it simply."There are more people in Atlanta

than all of Alabama," he said.AFC began 30 years ago in Hoover,

Ala., and has treated over 10 million people since then. While most of their offices are based in Alabama, the company has expanded to Tennessee and now Georgia.

The clinic is designed, equipped

and staffed to provide comprehensive urgent care, family care and occupational medicine without the need for an emergency room.

"We're making medical care more accessible," Johansen said.

For more on American Family Care, visit them online at www.americanfamilycare.com. The Milton office is located at 12994 Ga. 9 in Milton, across from the Target shopping center.

Urgent care clinic opens

JONATHAN COPSEY/Staff

Local dignitaries from the chamber and the city of Milton attended the ribbon cutting of the new Milton business.


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Ask the Expert for advice on thyroid problemsQ: Could My Thyroid

Be The Reason Why I am tired All The Time And Don’t Feel Like Myself?

A: Yes. You may be one of the 13 million people in this country that go to the doctor with sudden weight gain, fatigue, hot flashes, infertility, depression or some other unexplained symptom and ask about your thyroid.

Your doctor sends you for blood work and it comes back normal. According to the American Academy of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) there are 27 million people in this country with thyroid conditions and only half (13 million) are diagnosed.

You can go 20-30 years with symptoms before your blood work is abnormal.

Q: Why Does My Blood Work Look Normal But I Still Don’t Feel Well?

A: Most doctors think the problem is just in the thyroid when most of the time it is not. The reason for this is because thyroid conditions most often occur because of a problem somewhere other than the thyroid gland itself.

Thyroid hormone levels of TSH, T3 and T4 can appear normal. There are 3 reasons for that phenomenon.

T4 doesn’t convert to the active hormone T3.

Active T3 can’t be used in the cell because it’s receptors on the cell are blunted.

You could potentially have an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto’s Disease.

Q: What Would Cause T4 Not To Convert To T3?

A: One of the greatest reasons for T4 not converting to T3 active hormone is stress. The body does not know the difference between physical, chemical, or emotional stress.

The adrenal glands must also be evaluated to see how your body is adapting to stress.

Q: What is the Most Common Reason that My Blood Work is Normal but I still don’t Feel Well?

A: The most common reason is that Active T3 cannot be used in the cell because the receptors to the T3 on the cell are blunted. Hormone problems are not necessarily hormone problems themselves but problems with the receptor to the hormone.

Q: What Is Hashimoto’s Disease?

A: Hashimoto’s is an autoimmune condition where the body is attacking itself. It is estimated that 80% of thyroid conditions are autoimmune related.

Most of these conditions go undiagnosed because doctors often do not run the correct blood work to check for autoimmune thyroid.

Conventional medicine does not treat autoimmune hypothyroid differently than hypothyroidism so they do not feel the need to run the test.

Q: Can My Diet Be The Cause of My Thyroid Problems?

A: Yes. Food Intolerance can cause inflammation and cause your immune system to attack itself.

Many people suffer from gastrointestinal problems such as I.B.S, Crohn’s, Celiac and leaky gut, which allow foreign proteins to cross through the gut and cause the immune system to malfunction.

Q: How Can I Heal My Body, Increase My Energy And Start To Feel Better?

A: The first step is to schedule an appointment to have an in-depth consultation with our trained team of professionals.

Get proper testing done to determine the hidden, underlying cause of your fatigue and thyroid problems. A doctor will evaluate your thyroid and adrenal glands from a different perspective while determining if there are food sensitivities that may be contributing to your poor

health. They will make recommendations that will help you to get back to being your best self.

Dr. Lisa Tabick (left) and Dr. Brian Ouellette (right)are doctors at Renew Health. Contact them at 678-

792-3708 or www.renewforhealth.com

Get to the root cause and GET YOUR ENERGY BACK! At little to no cost to you!

Fatigue • Fuzzy Brain • Sleep Problems • Insomnia

www.renewforhealth.com678-212-5100

11550 Jones Bridge Rd, Ste 4Alpharetta, GA 30022

Second Location Now in Milton

12315 Crabapple Road Ste 144Alpharetta, GA 30004

Call today to schedule your FREE Consultation appointment

Tired all the Time?

Just don’t feel like yourself? It may not be your fault

Age Well – Th rive

Max 360 Health is now a Division of Renew Health

All symptoms of poorly functioning Adrenal Glands causing your Hormones to be out of balance.

Adrenal and Hormone imbalances aff ect overall health leading to Th yroid, Bowel and eventually Heart problems.


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Ask the Expert for advice on urgent careQ: When Should You

Visit an Urgent Care?A: If your condition is

less serious but requires immediate attention, choosing an Urgent Care facility verses a primary physician and emergency room, can save you loads of time and money. First of all, Convenience! You go there when it suits you! They are a walk-in facility and you are seen on a first come first serve basis. • An Urgent Care can

better meet your needs for:

• Minor burns and injuries• Sprains and strains• Coughs, colds and sore

throats.• Ear Infections, irrigations• Allergic reactions(Non

Life-threatening)• Fever or Flu-like

symptoms

• Rash or skin irritations.• Mild asthma• Animal Bites• Broken Bones and

X-rays of all kinds• Sutures and laceration

repair.• Lab Work, Phlebotomy.• Sports, Camp physicals• Rapid Strep, Urine dips.• Medication Refills.• Minor automobile,

Household and workplace accidents

Q: When should You NOT got to an Urgent Care and go to an ER?• Chest Pain• Loss of Consciousness

or severe bleeding or abdominal pain(Especially in pregnant woman)

• Sudden loss of vision • Difficulty Breathing• When you have a life

threatening condition.• Chronic conditions

such as diabetes m a n a g e m e n t , h y p e r t e n s i o n maintenance drugs.

• Anyone who thinks they are having a stroke or heart attack should go directly to the ER.

Q: What are the advantages of going to an Urgent Care Facility?

A: Convenience is usually the number one reason! It’s usually walk-in, so you can go when it suits you. • Minimal wait times and

the environment is another main reason.

• You have minimal Co-pay ‘s and deductibles as opposed to an ER.

• The average Urgent Care visit costs $105.00

to $156.00 while the average ER visit is

• $570.00

Q: How Do Urgent Cares Differentiate?

A: These facilities are known by several names, Immediate Care, Minute Clinics, and even the old “Doc in the Box”

They are each staffed differently, and services differ and are influenced by the type of physicians

they staff. Some are staffed by PA’s, or NP’s, some are family practice physicians, and some are doctors of emergency medicine.

Some Facilities are Corporate owned, and have 30-40 facilities state-wide and open clinics by the massive numbers and hire staff they barely know and not part of the community, and some are Owner Staffed and physicians who live in the community.

Dr. David Smith is the owner and primary physician. He is a board

certified Emergency Medicine Physician. He has worked in an

Emergency Room setting for 22 years and has treated and served the

Fulton and Forsyth county community his entire career. Bethany Bend is a

privately owned Urgent Care in Milton/Alpharetta that promises low wait times.

Emory Johns Creek donates defibrillator to Findley Oaks ESJOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Emory Johns Creek Hospital held its second annual 5K "Scrub Run" in May 2012, with proceeds to benefit health and wellness in the community.

One of the results was the donation of an automated external defibrillator to Findley Oaks Elementary School as part of the hospital's commitment to the community-wide Heart Ready Program.

Emory Johns Creek desired to partner with Findley Oaks because of the school's close proximity to

the hospital, and it was chosen as a recipient.

Coordinating the award with the hospital was Findley Oaks parent Wendy Haye.

Findley Oaks Principal John Anderson thanked Emory Johns Creek Hospital CEO Craig McCoy for this significant contribution to the school's health, safety and welfare and the important tool to aid in firsthand emergency response.

SPECIAL


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Dancing can be magical and transforming. It can breathe new life into a tired soul; make a spirit soar; unleash locked-away creativity; unite generations and cultures; inspire new romances or rekindle old ones; and turn sadness into joy. On a more physical level, dancing can give you a great mind-body workout.

Researchers are learning that regular physical activity in general can help keep your body, including your brain, healthy as you age. Exercise increases the level of brain chemicals that encourage nerve cells to grow. Dancing that requires you to remember dance steps and sequences boosts brain power by improving memory skills.

There has been some promising research in this area, according to Rita Beckford, M.D. a family doctor and spokesperson for the American Council on Exercise. For instance, a 2003 study published in the New England journal of Medicine found that ballroom dancing at least twice a week make people less likely to develop dementia.

Staying mentally active makes the

brain healthy. Just as a healthy body fights disease, a healthy brain is more likely to resist illness. In fact, ballroom dancing is more effective for preventing dementia than working crossword puzzles. This is due to the fact that in addition to physical exercise, ballroom dancing is a cognitive activity that requires concentration.

A Study led by the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City, funded by the National Institute on Aging, and published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that there was only one physical activity that offered protection against dementia - frequent ballroom dancing. The reduced risk of dementia was:• Reading – 35%• Bicycling and swimming – 0%• Doing crossword puzzles at least

four days a week – 47%• Playing golf – 0%• Ballroom dancing frequently –

76%Neurologist Dr. Joe Verghese

was quoted in the New York Journal of Medicine professing that “Ballroom dancing involves precise physical activity, listening to music,

remembering dance steps, and taking your partner into account, which is very mentally testing.”

In addition to the mental and aerobic exercise, dancing can help with other psychological factors. Chronic stress, depression, and social isolation all wreak havoc with memory and add to cognitive deterioration. Ballroom dancing can keep you current and flexible, both physically and emotionally. It is always good to have goals and significant hobbies that plug into these concerns.

At Ballroom Dance Clubs of Atlanta, we have students with many different goals. Power aging is a big one, but there are other benefits that our students look for as well. Some want to meet people and make new friends, others are looking for a means of expression and a sense of accomplishment. Yet many are looking for a fun way to lose weight and gain other physical benefits.

According to WebMD, and other health experts, ballroom and Latin dancing abound in health benefits. Dancing can help:• Strengthen bones and muscles

without hurting your joints.• Tone your entire body.• Improve your posture and

balance, which can prevent falls.• Increase stamina and flexibility.• Reduce stress and tension.• Build confidence.• Ward off illnesses like diabetes,

high blood pressure, heart disease, osteoporosis and depression.

So if you are tired of the treadmill and looking for a fun and even glamorous way to stay fit and healthy, ballroom dancing to some relaxing music, with a partner you enjoy just might be the fountain of youth.

Kristine Knipp, director Ballroom Dance Clubs of Metro - Atlanta. www.myballroomdanceclub.com

Dancing into Health

CUMMING, Ga. — Northside Hospital has announced the opening of its newest facility, the Northside-Forsyth Outpatient Surgery Center, located near Northside Hospital-Forsyth, at 1055 Haw Creek Parkway in Cumming.

The facility, which offers outpatient surgical care across multiple specialties including general surgery, orthopaedics, plastic surgery, ophthalmology, GI, ENT and podiatry, saw it's first patient last month.

"Our goal, always, is to provide the highest quality care to our patients, and new facilities and technology help

us to do just that," said Lynn Jackson, administrator, Northside Hospital-Forsyth. "This new Surgery Center allows us to take the surgical services we provide at the hospital and make them even more convenient for both our patients and surgeons."

The new 14,175-square-foot Northside-Forsyth Outpatient Surgery Center features four spacious and state-of-the-art operating rooms, including one large suite dedicated to GI endoscopy procedures. Easy access from Highway 20, a covered patient drop-off area and close-by parking add to the facility's appeal.

Northside Hospital opens outpatient surgery center in CummingForsyth County-based hospital now offering a variety of new services

52 Medical answer Book™ | 2012-13 Edition | Appen Newspapers, Inc. SENIORS

Most families eventually have to deal with a complicated and heart-wrenching question; How do I know when an aging relative needs more help at home?

Whether your loved one is simply dealing with the normal struggles of aging, a sudden change in their medical condition or coping with the affects of Alzheimer’s or Dementia, there are in home solutions to keep your loved one safe. It is always best to trust your instinct and take a proactive approach in making sure your senior loved one is safe in their home.

Here are the 10 Warning Signs that your loved

one may need additional help at home:

1- Sudden change in weight

(significant weight loss is a major indicator)

2- Failure to properly take scheduled medications.

3- Deterioration of Personal Hygiene.

4- Expired or rotten food in refrigerator or pantry.

5- Temperature in the house is too hot or too cold (depending on the time of year!)

6- General forgetfulness or incidences of getting lost.

7- Sudden surprising mood changes or bizarre behavior (Anxiety or Depression)

8- Decline in vision and hearing or newly diagnosed medical condition.

9- Difficulty completing normal daily tasks

(cleaning the dishes, paying bills, laundry etc.)

10- Unexplainable bruises or scars.Start these discussions as

soon as you notice any of these warning signs. It is much easier to start these conversations before bringing in extra help. The first step is identifying the needs of your loved one. Then call in an expert to come up with a schedule and care plan to keep your loved one Independent at home.

Here are a few tips for your conversations with your loved one:

Be Prepared: One tip is to be prepared and have your facts straight before your meeting. Make notes on the signs that have alarmed you and when you have noticed them.

Expect Resistance: Your loved one will most likely be upset at you for suggesting outside help and will try to convince you that everything is fine and that they do not need help. This is normal and to be expected. Do not be

discouraged and stay calm. Explain the process and how your goal is for them to stay at home. Also explain to them your concern for their safety and how beneficial it will be for them to have a personal assistant/caregiver to help around the house and with their daily needs.

Small Victories If the conversation gets too heated, take a deep breath and a little break. Take a few minutes to compose yourself, reevaluate where you are in the conversation and then proceed with the conversation. Do not get discouraged but remain focused on the end goal; Your Loved Ones safety and well-being.

A good starting point is to have a Personal Assistant/Caregiver start off just a few times a week for just a few hours and add more time as needed. You will be surprised how quickly your loved one will recognize and start to enjoy the value of extra help.

Sometimes it only takes a little extra outside help to allow

your elderly loved one to age in place at home. Start the conversation early to ensure the highest quality of life for your loved one!

• Alzheimer and Dementia Care• Transportation and Errands• Bathing, Dressing and Light Housekeeping

• 24/7 and Live-in Caregivers• Assisted Living Placement Assistance• Custom and Flexible Schedules

Senior Helpers: Matt Fredenberg, Elizabeth Jackson, Pam Hodgson, Hutch Hodgson

770.442.2154 Ask about our interactive caregivers.

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Pam Hodgson is the owner of Senior Helpers In Home

Care of Alpharetta. She own and operates Senior

Helpers with her two adult children; Elizabeth Jackson

and Matt Fredenberg. Senior Helpers specializes in Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care, Parkinson’s Disease

Care, Fall Risk Care, Transportation & Hospital

Recovery Care. Their custom and short term/long term services are available

from one hour a day to 24/7. Please call Senior

Helpers at 770-442-2154.Senior Helpers is located at 294 South Main Street

#500 in Alpharetta. Office; 770-442-2155. Website;

Seniorhelpers.com Email; Phodgson@seniorhelpers.

com.

10 Signs Your Elderly Loved One May Need Help

Appen Newspapers, Inc. | 2012-13 Edition | Medical answer Book™SENIORS 53

Heart disease takes the lives of more women each year than all cancers – combined – making it the leading cause of death for women in the United States. While the month of February is celebrated for love and other matters of the heart, have you considered the actual health of your heart?

The American Heart Association (AHA) defines ideal cardiovascular health based on seven health factors: smoking status, weight, physical activity, healthy diet, cholesterol and blood pressure, as well as the absence of a diagnosed heart disease.

Based on this definition, 94 percent of U.S. adults have at least one “unhealthy” factor, and 38 percent have at least three of the seven factors – for an overall “needs improvement” grade across the board.

The AHA has set a goal for America by 2020 — to improve the cardiovascular health of all Americans by 20 percent and reduce deaths from cardiovascular diseases and stroke by 20 percent.

Lofty goals perhaps, but preventive actions, combined with even small changes in behavior, are the best defense against heart disease.

“For women, check your blood pressure and get screened for diabetes, especially if there is a family history, and high cholesterol,” said Dr. Michael Waller of Cardiology of South Forsyth. “And if you are a smoker, stop smoking!”

Symptoms of stroke and heart attack often

mimic each other, so it is i m p o r t a n t to know the warning signs, and act quickly.

Heart attackHeart attacks occur when the blood flow to a

part of the heart is blocked, usually by a blood clot. Symptoms of heart attack include:• Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing,

fullness or pain in the center of your chest which lasts more than a few minutes, or goes away and

comes back. • Painordiscomfort inoneorbotharms,

the back, neck, jaw or stomach. • Shortnessofbreathwithorwithoutchest

discomfort. • Coldsweat,nauseaorlightheadedness.The most common heart attack symptom is

chest pain or discomfort. Women, however, are more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting and back or jaw pain.

Waller emphasizes if you have any of these signs, don’t wait more than five minutes before calling for help.

StrokeA stroke occurs when a blood vessel feeding

the brain gets clogged or bursts. As with heart attack symptoms, don’t wait before calling for help – medical care within three hours of symptoms can save your life. Symptoms of a stroke include:• Sudden numbness or weakness of the

face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body. • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or

understanding. • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both

eyes. • Suddentroublewalking,dizziness, loss

of balance or coordination. • Suddensevereheadachewithnoknown

cause.

Heart attack or stroke? Know the warning signs

54 Medical answer Book™ | 2012-13 Edition | Appen Newspapers, Inc. SENIORS

North Fulton boasts several major hospitals and dedicated public safety personnel, so residents and visitors should know they have the best here to help in times of emergency.

Here you will find all your local police and fire stations as well as contact information for some major local hospitals.

ALPHARETTA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Alpharetta Police Department2565 Old Milton PkwyAlpharetta, GA 30009(678) 297-6300http://alpharetta.ga.us

Alpharetta Fire Department HeadquartersStation 12970 Webb Bridge RdAlpharetta, GA 30009(678) 297-6270http://alpharetta.ga.us

Alpharetta fire station 23070 Market Place Blvd.Alpharetta Ga 30009(678) 297-6282

Alpharetta fire station 39600 Westside PkwyAlpharetta, GA 30009(678) 297-6283

Alpharetta fire station 4525 Park Bridge PkwyAlpharetta, GA 30009(678) 297-6284

Alpharetta fire station 51475 Mid Broadwell RdAlpharetta, GA 30009(678) 297-6285

Alpharetta fire station 63275 Kimball Bridge RdAlpharetta, GA 30009(678) 297-6286

_______________________CUMMING POLICE DEPARTMENT301 Veterans Memorial BlvdCumming, GA 30040(770) 781-2000www.cummingpd.net

DULUTH POLICE DEPARTMENT3276 Buford HwyDuluth, GA 30096(770) 476-4151www.duluthpd.com______________________FORSYTH COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICEHeadquarters/Jail202 Veterans Memorial BlvdCumming, GA 30040(770) 781-2222www.forsythsheriff.org

Office of the Sheriff202 Veterans Memorial BlvdCumming, GA 30040(770) 781-3077

Annex - civil and records875 Lanier 400 Pkwy # 144Cumming, GA 30040(770) 781-3091

South Precinct at South Forsyth High School2985 Ronald Reagan Blvd.Cumming, GA 30041(770) 781-3047

North Precinct at Central Park2300 Keith Bridge Road, Forsyth County, GA(770) 781-3059

Training at Public Safety Complex3420 Settingdown Rd.Cumming, Ga. 30028(678) 455-8070______________________FORSYTH COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT

Fire headquarters/Training facility3520 Settingdown RdCumming, GA 30028(770) 781-2180www.forsythco.com

Forsyth fire station 1234 Castleberry Industrial DrCumming, GA 30040

Forsyth fire station 24055 Carolene Way Cumming, GA 30040

Forsyth fire station 34125 Dr Bramblett RdCumming, GA 30040

Forsyth fire station 43805 Canton HwyCumming, GA 30040

Forsyth fire station 52720 Holtzclaw RdCumming, GA 30041

Forsyth fire station 75775 Dahlonega HwyCumming, GA 30040

Forsyth fire station 86015 Keith Bridge Road Cumming, Ga

Forsyth fire station 97385 Browns Bridge RdGainesville, GA 30506

Forsyth fire station 103680 Old Atlanta RdSuwanee, GA 30024Forsyth fire station 11(unstaffed)Storage facility at Browns Bridge and Shady grove roads

Forsyth fire station 123530 Settingdown RdCumming, GA 30040Forsyth fire station 13 (unstaffed)1525 Doctor Bramblett RoadCumming, GA 30040

Forsyth fire station 14800 McFarland PkwyAlpharetta, GA 30004

Forsyth fire station 151525 Buford HwyBuford, GA 30518_______________________GWINNETT COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT2900 University PkwyLawrenceville, GA 30043(770) 619-6500www.gwinnettcountysher-iff.com

Jail2900 University PkwyLawrenceville, GA 30043(770) 619-6500

_______________________GWINNETT COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT770 HI Hope RoadLawrenceville, GA 30043(770) 513-5000www.gwinnettcounty.com

Justice and Administration Center75 Langley DriveLawrenceville, GA 30044(770) 822-8000

_______________________GWINNETT COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENTGwinnett station 193275 North Berkeley Lake Rd NWDuluth, GA 30096

Gwinnett station 13343 US Highway 23Suwanee, GA 30024

Gwinnett station 73288 Duluth Highway 120Duluth, GA 30096

_______________________JOHNS CREEK FIRE DEPARTMENTJohns Creek Fire Station No. 6110205 Medlock Bridge Parkway

Johns Creek Fire Station No. 6210925 Rogers Circle

Johns Creek Fire Station No. 633165 Old Alabama Road

JOHNS CREEK POLICE DEPARTMENT:11445 Johns Creek PkwyJohns Creek, GA 30097(678) 474-1600www.johnscreekga.gov

_______________________MILTON PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT

Police/fire headquarters:13000 Deerfield Parkway, Suite 107Milton, GA 30004(678) 242-2500www.cityofmiltonga.us

Milton station 4215260 Thompson RdMilton, GA 30004(770) 240-2422

Milton station 4112670 Arnold Mill RdMilton, GA 30004(770) 740-2406

Milton station 43750 Hickory Flat RdMilton, GA 30004(770) 777-6592

_______________________ROSWELL POLICE DEPARTMENTRoswell Police Department:Headquarters/jail39 Hill StRoswell, GA 30075(770) 640-4100www.roswellgov.com

_______________________ROSWELL FIRE AND RESCUE DEPARTMENT38 Hill St # 235Roswell, GA 30075(770) 641-3730

Headquarters1810 Hembree RdAlpharetta, GA 30009(770) 641-3730

Roswell station 11002 Alpharetta StRoswell, GA 30075

Roswell station 211115 Crabapple RdRoswell, GA 30076

Roswell station 3740 Jones RdRoswell, GA 30075

Roswell station 41601 Holcomb Bridge RdRoswell, GA 30076

Roswell station 51200 Hembree RdRoswell, GA 30076

Roswell station 6825 Cox RdRoswell, GA 30075

Roswell station 78025 Holcomb Bridge RdRoswell, GA 30076

_______________________ SUWANEE POLICE DEPARTMENT373 Buford HwySuwanee, GA 30024(770) 945-8995www.suwanee.com

Fire & Rescue in the area

Appen Newspapers, Inc. | 2012-13 Edition | Medical answer Book™SENIORS 55

Fitness Trends

By ALDO NAHED and PHOEBE [email protected]

NORTH FULTON, Ga. — A big question for many people is, “How does the new healthcare law affect me?” Here’s a rundown of the convoluted ins-and-outs of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, referred to as Obamacare.

Everyone will be required to have insurance by 2014, either through their employers or on their own. Those who refuse to purchase coverage will face a penalty.

Policies can be purchased through state-controlled exchanges beginning in 2014 and a sliding scale of federal subsidies will be available.

Insurance companies are now further restricted in their ability to drop customers or deny coverage to individuals. For instance, healthcare plans cannot deny coverage to people with pre-existing conditions or cease coverage when people develop new illnesses. Preventative and diagnostic procedures will be free. There will be no cap on how much an insurance company can pay over a patient’s lifetime.

Immediate things businesses must do include a summary of benefits and coverage, said Sallie Stearns, a senior associate at Mercer consulting firm.

“Know that you have compliance issues that are on the table currently. Some of those may change in the future with elections in sight, but we encourage employers to have a plan and act accordingly,” Stearns said.

Stearns said she encourages business owners to create a checklist and weigh their options. But most importantly, get started now.

“This is a wonderful time for people to look at their benefits strategy,” Stearns said. “If they don’t

have one, implement one.”Because businesses will be affected in terms

of their payroll, Stearns recommends looking at a strategy for a benefits package that encompasses three-, five- and 10-year cycles that plan ahead.

“One of the things that is coming out of the Affordable Care Act is to allow people to be strategic,” Stearns said.

Mercer research shows that manufacturing will be the industry least affected by the healthcare changes, while the service industry, which includes retail and hospitality, will be impacted the most.

The law will cost the government about $938 billion over a decade, according to the Congressional Budget Office, a nonpartisan group that also estimated it will reduce the federal deficit by $138 billion over 10 years.

Employers with more than 50 employees will be impacted the most by the changes.

What’s worrisome to some employers is that if they are hovering on the 45 employee line, what plan will they choose? They can freeze hiring, but if they have, say, 10 additional part-timers at 20 hours, the aggregation of the hours could put them at 50 employees, said Stuart Baesel, labor law attorney at Fisher and Phillips.

“When the play or pay mandate applies to you, you have to provide adequate and affordable healthcare to your employees,” Baesel said. “Most high-deductible policies will satisfy the adequate program there.”

Dr. David Miller, Ph.D., of Miller Psychological Associates in Alpharetta, said having a political perspective to the healthcare act was helpful.

Billing and reimbursement, Miller said, will likely become more complicated at his practice in South Forsyth because there will be the introduction of the state exchange along with employer or private insurances.

Effects of ‘Obamacare’The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act,

also known as Obamacare, will affect some people more than others, but here are a few ways in which the new healthcare plan will affect you personally. For further information on the PPACA, visit the official government website at www.healthcare.gov.

How “Obamacare” will affect you:• Health plans cannot drop customers when

they develop new illnesses. They cannot drop customers for any reason other than customer fraud.

• Health plans must allow children to be covered under their parents’ plan until they reach the age of 26.

• Insurance companies cannot deny coverage to children with pre-existing conditions.

• Insurance companies cannot cap the amount of treatment a customer can receive in a lifetime.

• Insurance companies cannot charge customers for services involving prevention or diagnosis of illnesses.

How “Obamacare” will affect small business owners:

• Businesses must create a summary of benefits and coverage.

• Businesses will be affected in terms of their payroll.

• Marketing will be the least affected industry.• Services will be the most affected industry.• Employers with more than 50 employees will be

impacted the most by the changes.

How does the new healthcare law affect me?

1. Ballet Body FusionBallet Body Fusion is

a total body conditioning program that blends classical ballet exercises and Pilates with a special focus on core fitness.

A recent addition to the schedule at LifeTime Fitness locations across the area, ballet body fusion is an invigorating workout that develops muscular endurance, dynamic balance, flexibility and core strength. No dance experience necessary – and non-dancers are definitely welcome!

2. Woman’s best friendCan’t afford a personal trainer? Have

your dog be your exercise buddy and get fit together. Recent medical studies support this trend, which prove both people and pets were more successful in staying with a weight loss and fitness routine when they did it together.

Dogs also become a stimulus for exercise, with owners walking twice the distance with their pet than on their own. Remember to gradually build up your exercise program and don’t overdo it at the beginning--good advice for pet and owner!

3. Lower-Cost Health ClubsIf the cost of a gym membership

is the reason you‘ve been avoiding workouts, then you haven’t surveyed the current gym landscape. High-end

facilities, without the high costs are popping up everywhere, including metro

Atlanta. They might not have the bells and whistles of the top tier facilities, but if a basic workout with new equipment and a decent class schedule is what you need, then check out the latest entries into the workout market.

4. Kangoo JumpsThey may look like

something out of a toy store, but these are definitely

not child’s play. Billed as the “world’s lowest impact shoes,” Kangoo Jumps promise a low impact cardio workout, with no stress on knees, ankles and other joints. Run in place, leap side-to-side, or perform jumping jacks to get your heart

pumping, although get ready for amused looks from bystanders as you bounce away! www.kangoojumps.com

5. Bone-Friendly ExercisesWith more than one in five women over

50 having osteoporosis – a potentially fatal condition in which bones become weak and brittle - health clubs across the country

are offering classes to help women strengthen their bodies without the risk of fracturing weak bones. The classes are designed to keep the spine from over-flexing, and using the woman’s own body weight as light resistance to slowly build muscle mass. Ask your local health facility about classes that emphasize flexibility, light weights and resistance designed specifically for those with osteoporosis.


Documents

Medical Answer Book 2012-2013