Basic HTML Version
askAAMC . o r g «
15
Live Healthier Together
1}
Green Trailblazers in the OR
AAMC’s operating room (OR) teams are shining
examples of what it means to go green. Since
2010, the ORs have implemented a wide variety
of recycling and waste-management solutions,
diverting thousands of pounds of trash and
saving an estimated $600,000. These initiatives
earned us a 2011 Maryland Hospitals for Healthy
Environments Trailblazer Award.
To watch a video about AAMC’s green
ORs, visit
askAAMC.org/greenOR
.
2}
First EMR in Cardiac Rehab
Electronic medical records (EMRs) offer patients
and care providers a better window into a
patient’s health and medical history. The
Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation team at AAMC
developed the nation’s first EMR that’s designed
specifically for cardiopulmonary patients.
The American Association of Cardiovascular
and Pulmonary Rehabilitation has designated
AAMC’s EMR as a national best practice for other
hospital-based cardiopulmonary programs.
To learn more, call
443-481-1929
.
3}
Prescribing Activity for Kids
“Your child is overweight and on a path toward
poor health.” Parents: It’s tough to hear. What
do you do? Has your pediatrician or family doctor
talked to you about options?
A pilot project is under way in our community
to encourage pediatricians to prescribe physical
activity for youth. Through the prescription,
discounts and activities to several fitness programs
are offered. AAMC also offers “BodyWorks” to teach
parents and youth about health and nutrition.
To learn more, call
443-481-6122
.
changes and have increased the number
of patients we serve.”
Reaching goals
A unique aspect of Pathways is
experiential therapy, a challenging
outdoor course to help participants
rebuild confidence and self-esteem.
“The staff was a huge part of why I felt
so comfortable,” says Matt, a 19-year-old
former patient who spoke on condition
of anonymity, an important part of the
program. “They welcomed me with open
arms and understanding. After two weeks,
they helped me prepare for leaving, which
was the hardest part.”
Upon discharge, Matt transitioned to a
six-month rehabilitation program in the
Catoctin Mountains and has been clean
and sober for two years.
“AAMC and Pathways have been
tremendous partners to the school
system,” says Kathy Lane, director of
Anne Arundel County Public School’s
Alternative Education. Pathways provides
substance abuse education to area teachers
and students. “We place enormous value
on these partnerships because working
together we’re stronger,” she says.
And to keep kids from falling
behind in school, a teacher and tutors
provide a highly structured educational
environment to meet each student’s
individual needs.
“No one wants to be an addict,”
says Dr. Allen. “The psychological
ramifications are great. But the dynamic
healing environment combined with
complementary and alternative therapies
make a world of difference for our
patients. It’s a beautiful process to watch
and to help them in recovery.”
“The dynamic healing
environment combined with
complementary and alternative
therapies make a world of
difference for our patients.”
—Rhonda Allen, M.D.,
Pathways medical director