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April, 2010 - St. Petersburg, Florida
Palms of Pasadena Hospital (POPH) has been recertified by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) as a Center of Excellence by the Surgical Review Corporation (SRC), an organization dedicated to pursuing surgical excellence in the delivery of bariatric surgical care.
April, 2010 - St. Petersburg, Florida
Palms of Pasadena Hospital (POPH) has been recertified by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) as a Center of Excellence by the Surgical Review Corporation (SRC), an organization dedicated to pursuing surgical excellence in the delivery of bariatric surgical care.
The award is peer reviewed by the most competent doctors in the industry and the hospital receives the designation in collaboration with bariatric surgeon, Ernest Rehnke, M.D.
"We are extremely proud of this designation," said Brian Flynn, Chief Executive Officer of Palms of Pasadena Hospital. "It is important because it allows patients to know that we have a program with a demonstrated track record of excellence."
Becoming a Designee
To earn a Center of Excellence designation, the Bariatric Program at Palms of Pasadena Hospital underwent a site inspection from the SRC during which all aspects of the program's surgical processes were closely examined and data on health outcomes was collected. Palms of Pasadena Hospital and other centers receiving the Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence designation agree to continue to share information on clinical pathways, protocols and outcomes. To be eligible for ASMBS designation, hospitals must perform at least 125 bariatric surgeries annually, and individual surgeons must do at least 50 surgeries a year.
Why the Designation Was Created
Bariatric surgery is a complex and challenging undertaking. Many of the patients, who are typically afflicted with serious co-morbidities in addition to the burdens of excessive weight, present sharply increased surgical risks. Psychosocial challenges and the uncontrolled complications of morbid obesity require highly competent and compassionate support. Furniture, hospital equipment, instruments and imaging resources must be suitable for massive patients who often exceed their ideal body weight by 100 pounds or more.
Especially important is a well-trained staff, capable of dealing with the physical and emotional demands of the morbidly obese.
Faced with these issues, the ASMBS identified the need to recognize the centers that perform well and to help surgeons and hospitals reach optimal levels of performance. The program was created to recognize bariatric surgery centers, while helping hospitals and surgeons continue to improve the quality and safety of care provided.
"We are pleased that the medical community is recognizing hospitals that excel in surgical weight loss," said Flynn. "The number of weight loss surgeries increases each year, and we believe individuals choosing weight loss surgery should have information about the programs they are considering as well as affordable access to these procedures. Our designation reaffirms our commitment to providing quality care and services to our patients."
Obesity in America
According to the SRC, obesity is AmericaÕs most serious health epidemic. Over two thirds of US citizens are overweight; a frightening statistic that continues to increase each year. Of even greater concern, over 23 million Americans are morbidly obese, which means that they have a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than 35, exceeding their ideal body weight by at least 100 pounds. One third of these, a population equal to that of North Carolina, attain BMIs greater than 40.
Those afflicted by these severe forms of obesity are not only burdened by their bulk, that are also confronted with life-threatening diseases that may include diabetes, hypertension and severe pulmonary compromise. Morbid obesity is closely correlated with a number of serious conditions that severely undermine the health of overweight patients, including heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes.
According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, the number of US bariatric surgeries more than quadrupled between 1998 and 2002 Ð from 13,386 to 71,733. Bariatric surgery helps many people who are morbidly obese lose weight when all other methods have failed.
About Our Program
The Bariatric Program at Palms of Pasadena Hospital performs approximately 350 surgeries annually. Its program is designed to help patients lose weight and keep it off. The program's goal is to go beyond surgery by providing a life-changing program that includes nutritional guidance, support groups and coordination of counseling services.
The program is affiliated with experienced, board-certified surgeons who specialize in the surgical treatment of morbidly obese patients. We offer the Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass, both open and laparoscopic; Sleeve; as well as the less invasive adjustable Gastric Bands (LAP-BAND® and Realize Band™). For more information visit www.ObesityNoMoreFL.com.
About Our Hospital
Palms of Pasadena Hospital, fully accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, was founded during 1963 and, over the years, has gradually expanded services to meet the needs of our community. Currently, Palms of Pasadena Hospital provides a broad array of inpatient and outpatient services along with specialty programs such as the Continent Ostomy Program, Bariatric Care, Radiation Oncology, Sleep Disorder Program, Wound Health and Home Health care. Its mission is to provide quality healthcare by a team committed to value and continuous improvement. Dedicated to this mission are over 350 physicians, 650 full and part-time healthcare professionals and over 100 volunteers. For more information, visit the hospital's website at www.palmspasadena.com or call 727.341.7706.
Contact:
Susan Kay R.N.
Dir. Specialty Surgical Services
Phone: 727.341.7706
April, 2010 - St. Petersburg, Florida
Palms of Pasadena Hospital is proud to announce that Dawn Wenzel is the winner of our free LAP-BAND® giveaway contest. (...) Dawn is scheduled for LAP-BAND® surgery on April 23rd, with Dr. Ernest Rehnke, Medical Director for Palms of Pasadena Hospital's Weight Loss Surgery Program.
April, 2010 - St. Petersburg, Florida
Palms of Pasadena Hospital is proud to announce that Dawn Wenzel is the winner of our free LAP-BAND® giveaway contest.
"Obesity has affected my life in so many ways that it is hard to know where to begin. I am a 38-year-old female with a degree in respiratory therapy and human services. Most days, I cannot even leave the house due to severe back, knee, and overall joint pain."
Dawn submitted these words as part of her entry to the contest. Throughout the month of January, local media promoted the contest asking participants to submit entries for a chance to win this minimally invasive weight loss surgery. Over 1,000 people entered the contest. They were asked about their struggles with weight, how losing weight would improve their lives and why they felt they should be the winner.
Five medically eligible candidates were chosen from the official entries, they attended an educational seminar, and were be seen by a weight loss surgeon and clinical psychologist to confirm eligibility.
The candidates' photos and profiles were featured on www.ObesityNoMoreFL.com and the Tampa Bay area community voted for the winner.
Dawn concluded her entry by saying, "I feel as though obesity has robbed me of my future, my independence and my freedom. I feel like a prisoner in my own body. I don't feel that I am more deserving of this gift than anyone else, but I know that at my age, I still have much to do and would love the opportunity to help others in the future."
Dawn is scheduled for LAP-BAND® surgery on April 23rd, with Dr. Ernest Rehnke, Medical Director for Palms of Pasadena Hospital's Weight Loss Surgery Program.
Obesity is a painful disease affecting millions of people. Obesity worsens health, quality of life and shortens life expectancy. Adjustable Gastric Band Surgery (LAP-BAND®) has been shown to be an effective surgical option for weight loss. The surgery is performed through small incisions, resulting in less pain and scarring and short recovery times.
The Bariatric Care Program at Palms of Pasadena Hospital is dedicated to offering the latest advancements in the surgical weight loss surgery and is proud to sponsor this groundbreaking procedure that may provide the winner a healthier, happier life.
Clinical experts are available for comments or interviews.
Contact:
Judy Goetz
Director of Marketing
Palms of Pasadena Hospital
jgoetz@iasishealthcare.com
727.341.7545
May 1, 2009 - St. Petersburg, Florida
On March 10 and 11, 2009, Palms of Pasadena Hospital broadcast a feed of a LAP-BAND® surgery LIVE to seminar locations 15 miles away, as they happened, with nearly 100 people in attendance each night. Now, you can watch the video highlights of the LIVE surgeries, along with commentary from the surgeons, Dr. Ernest Rehnke and Dr. Tiffany Jessee.
See the video highlights of the live surgeries!
March 15, 2009 - St. Petersburg, Florida
On March 10 and 11, 2009, Palms of Pasadena Hospital broadcast a feed of a LAP-BAND® surgery LIVE to seminar locations 15 miles away, as they happened, with nearly 100 people in attendance each night. St. Petersburg Times reporter Richard Martin was on the scene and covered patient reactions to this unprecedented event.
Read more about the live surgery broadcast!
February, 2009 - St. Petersburg, Florida
The Bariatric Care Program at Palms of Pasadena Hospital in St. Petersburg, FL will be performing two Lap Band® procedures that will be broadcast live on March 10th and March 11th. The public can view this surgery from Palms of Pasadena Hospital operating room while attending a seminar. It is the first live feed of bariatric surgery in Pinellas County.
February, 2009 - St. Petersburg, Florida
The Bariatric Care Program at Palms of Pasadena Hospital in St. Petersburg, FL will be performing two Lap Band® procedures that will be broadcast live on March 10th and March 11th. The public can view this surgery from Palms of Pasadena Hospital operating room while attending a seminar. It is the first live feed of bariatric surgery in Pinellas County.
The public will be able to watch as Dr. E. Rehnke and Dr. Tiffany Jessee are in surgery using minimally invasive techniques to fit a silicone band around the upper portion of the stomach, which helps patients eat less, feel fuller longer and lose weight.
The technical aspect of the procedure will be narrated live as it is being performed. After the procedure, the surgeon will address the audience and answer questions regarding this life-changing, less invasive procedure.
Performing weight loss surgery since 1999, Palms of Pasadena Hospital's Bariatric Program is a designated Center of Excellence. The designation is based upon superior clinical outcomes and a comprehensive program, which includes education and patient support groups. The program was also the first program on the west coast of Florida to add the Realize™ Personalized band solution to their comprehensive program. They remain the only hospital in Pinellas County to offer this option.Weight Loss surgery can have a profound effect on a patient's overall health, with about 85% of Palms weight loss patients reducing or eliminating their medications for chronic conditions such as diabetes.
Events will be held:
| Tuesday, March 10, 2009 6:30 PM The Marriott Hotel 12600 Roosevelt Blvd. St. Petersburg, FL Surgeon: Ernest Rehnke M.D. | Wednesday, March 11, 2009 6:30 PM The Grand Hyatt 2900 Bayport Drive Tampa, FL Surgeon: Tiffany Jessee, DO |
For more information on this event visit our website at www.ObesityNoMoreFL.com or call 1.866.931.THIN.
Contact:
Judy Goetz
727.341.7545
November, 2008 - St. Petersburg, Florida
Palms of Pasadena Hospital's weight loss program has been designated as an Aetna Institute of Quality for Bariatric Surgery. Aetna designates hospitals and facilities based upon an evaluation of the clinical performance and overall value of the facility. Palms of Pasadena Hospital submits information to Aetna on an annual basis. The designation is for a two-year period.
October 28, 2008 - Tampa, Florida
After years of providing quality patient care in Pinellas County, Dr. Jessee has crossed the bay to offer greater convenience for her weight loss surgery patients in Tampa and the surrounding areas.
October 28, 2008 - Tampa, Florida
After years of providing quality patient care in Pinellas County, Dr. Jessee has crossed the bay to offer greater convenience for her weight loss surgery patients in Tampa and the surrounding areas.
Dr. Jessee said, "I'm so happy that my services are now more convenient for my patients in Hillsborough, Pasco and Polk county. I'm looking forward to meeting new patients that can benefit from the Adjustable Gastric Banding procedure - the safest and least invasive surgical weight loss procedure available in the US.
About Dr. Tiffany Jessee:
Dr. Tiffany Jessee completed medical school in her home state of West Virginia in 1997. She completed a one-year rotating internship as well as her four year general surgery residency in Largo. In 2002 she completed a one-year fellowship in advanced laparoscopy and bariatric (weight loss) surgery. Dr. Jessee is one of the only fellowship trained surgeons practicing in the Tampa Bay area.
Dr. Jessee studied under the direction of Moises Jacobs M.D. and Eddie Gomez M.D. Dr. Jacobs and Dr. Gomez are two of the top laparoscopic surgeons in the world. Dr. Jessee trained extensively in the LAP-BAND® and Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass. She performed the first LAP-BAND® in Pinellas County.
Dr. Jessee is one of only a few surgeons in the Tampa Bay area invited to place the REALIZE™ (Johnson and Johnson) banding system, since approval by the FDA in 2007. Dr. Jessee is proud to be associated with Palms of Pasadena's Bariatric Center of Excellence in St. Petersburg, Florida.
Contact:
Karen Bobbitt
Sun Coast Bariatrics
1-866-440-HOPE
info@suncoastbariatrics.com
http://www.suncoastbariatrics.com
Increasingly, researchers are exploring the similarities between compulsive eating and other self-destructive behaviors such as alcohol and cocaine addiction. Scans reveal similar neuropathways in the brains of addicts and the morbidly obese. Food increases the feel-good dopamine levels in the brain, paralleling the effects of addictive drugs.
Read more at Tampa Bay Online
July 31, 2008 - Tampa, Florida
On September 27, 2008, the Largo Cultural Center will be the scene for the Tampa Bay area's largest gathering of those affected by obesity. From both sides of the Bay, individuals dealing with obesity, loved ones, friends, colleagues, healthcare professionals and many others will join forces and walk in recognition of the obesity epidemic in the annual Walk from Obesity℠.
July 31, 2008 - Tampa, Florida
On September 27, 2008, the Largo Cultural Center will be the scene for the Tampa Bay area's largest gathering of those affected by obesity. From both sides of the Bay, individuals dealing with obesity, loved ones, friends, colleagues, healthcare professionals and many others will join forces and walk in recognition of the obesity epidemic in the annual Walk from Obesity.
"We are greatly looking forward to this year's Walk from Obesity. This year we are calling the event the 'Walk from Obesity Healthy Hike and Fitness Health Fair' and gladly invite all those interested to join us for this fantastic event. We encourage all those battling obesity and anyone else who would like to participate to locate their Walk city and sign-up today at www.walkfromobesity.com," said Susan Kay, RN, Director, Specialty Surgical Services.
Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a one mile symbolic walk, visit the health fair, have their blood sugar tested and much more. Registration begins at the Largo Cultural Center, located at 105 Central Park Drive, Largo, FL 33779 at 7 am and the Walk will begin at 8 am. In 2007, the Tampa Bay Walk generated more than 100 participants and raised more than $6,380.00 for obesity research. To date, the Walk nationally has raised more than $2.5 million to support its efforts.
For more information and to learn more about this event, how to get involved and training programs, please visit www.walkfromobesity.com.
The Walk from Obesity was established to raise awareness of the obesity epidemic and to support initiatives focusing on prevention, education, research, treatment and advocacy. Proceeds from the Walk benefit the independent educational and research initiatives of the ASMBS Foundation and the Obesity Action Coalition. Walkers raise money by asking friends, family and co-workers to sponsor them. In addition to walker income, funds are raised through sponsorship, matching gifts, corporate contributions and other fundraising activities.
April, 2008 - St. Petersburg, Florida
Palms of Pasadena Hospital in St. Petersburg, FL is the first program on the West Coast of Florida to perform bariatric surgery utilizing the Realize™ Adjustable Gastric Band, a device that is surgically implanted around the stomach to help people with morbid obesity lose weight and improve or resolve obesity-related health conditions including type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea and high cholesterol.
April, 2008 - St. Petersburg, Florida
Palms of Pasadena Hospital in St. Petersburg, FL is the first program on the West Coast of Florida to perform bariatric surgery utilizing the Realize™ Adjustable Gastric Band, a device that is surgically implanted around the stomach to help people with morbid obesity lose weight and improve or resolve obesity-related health conditions including type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea and high cholesterol.
Unique to the Realize™ band, an interactive tool provides support to help patients successfully achieve long-term weight loss. Through the REALIZE mySUCCESS™ program, patients and physicians at Palms of Pasadena Hospital can set goals and continuously watch the patient's progress together, especially for the first three years, as the patient adjusts to his/her new lifestyle so healthcare providers can step in precisely when needed to keep patients on track.
In the clinical trial that led to its FDA approval, REALIZE Band patients lost an average of 50 pounds or 40 percent of their excess body weight within the first year of surgery and maintained that weight loss over three years. More than one-third of patients lost 50 percent or more and about 10 percent lost 75 percent or more of their excess weight.
"Gastric band patients are able to lose a significant amount of weight and improve their overall health status in a relatively short period of time, considering many have been morbidly obese for years prior to surgery," said Dr. Ernest Rehnke, Medical Director of Palms of Pasadena Hospital's Bariatric Program, selected as a Center of Excellence by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS). "And while the surgery is among the most effective treatments for morbid obesity, it is just one stop along the patient's journey. Patients must make changes to their diet and lifestyle after surgery to help achieve long-term success."
With the REALIZE mySUCCESS™ program patients establish a tailored progress plan, to develop new health habits in the areas of physical activity, nutrition, and emotional well- being.
"REALIZE mySUCCESS works closely with our bariatric team," said Susan Kay R.N., program coordinator and bariatric patient. "The information provided is comprehensive specific to the needs of a gastric band patient. Our patients are really benefiting from having this added support that is available online day and night."
About the Realize™ Band
The REALIZE Adjustable Gastric Band is a device intended for use in weight reduction for patients with morbid obesity and is indicated for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of at least 40 kg/m2, or a BMI of at least 35 kg/m2 with one or more co-morbid conditions. It is for use in morbidly obese adult patients who have failed more conservative weight-reduction alternatives, such as supervised diet, exercise and behavior modification programs.
Realize™ Band patients in the U.S. clinical study experienced a 22% increase in good cholesterol (HDL) and a decrease in bad cholesterol (LDL), total cholesterol and triglycerides 36 months after surgery. In addition, patients experienced a statistically significant reduction in the key indicator for type 2 diabetes (HbA1c).The REALIZE Band, which is marketed under the name Swedish Adjustable Gastric Band (SAGB) outside the U.S., has been commercially available outside the U.S. since 1996 and has been used by more than 100,000 patients worldwide to help manage their weight.
Palms of Pasadena Hospital was founded in 1963 and over the years has expanded services and facilities to meet the healthcare needs of St. Petersburg and surrounding areas. Our mission is to provide quality healthcare by a team committed to value and continuous improvement. As a 307-bed acute care hospital, Palms of Pasadena offers a full range of medical/surgical and specialty services, with full accreditation by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Heath Care Organizations. Over 350 physicians, 700 employees and 200 volunteers share in the hospital's dedication to advanced care, improved technologies and leading edge physician expertise.
To read more about the Program at Palms of Pasadena Hospital, visit www.ObesityNoMoreFL.com or call 1-866-931-THIN.
Designated with a National Award for Bariatric Surgery
January, 2006 -St. Petersburg, Florida -
Palms of Pasadena Hospital (POPH) has been named an American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) Center of Excellence by the Surgical Review Corporation (SRC), an organization dedicated to pursuing surgical excellence in the delivery of bariatric surgical care.
Designated with a National Award for Bariatric Surgery
January, 2006 -St. Petersburg, Florida -
Palms of Pasadena Hospital (POPH) has been named an American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) Center of Excellence by the Surgical Review Corporation (SRC), an organization dedicated to pursuing surgical excellence in the delivery of bariatric surgical care.
The award is peer reviewed by the most competent doctors in the industry and the hospital receives the designation in collaboration with bariatric surgeon, Ernest Rehnke, M.D.
“We are extremely proud of this designation,” said Kelly Adams, chief executive officer of Palms of Pasadena Hospital. “It is important because it allows patients to know that we have a program with a demonstrated track record of excellence. We are honored to work with Dr. Rehnke.”
Becoming a Designee
To earn a Center of Excellence designation, the Bariatric Program at Palms of Pasadena Hospital underwent a site inspection from the SRC during which all aspects of the program’s surgical processes were closely examined and data on health outcomes was collected. Palms of Pasadena Hospital and other centers receiving the Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence designation agree to continue to share information on clinical pathways, protocols and outcomes. To be eligible for ASBS designation, hospitals must perform at least 125 bariatric surgeries annually, and individual surgeons must do at least 50 surgeries a year.
Why the Designation Was Created
Bariatric surgery is a complex and challenging undertaking. Many of the patients, who are typically afflicted with serious co-morbidities in addition to the burdens of excessive weight, present sharply increased surgical risks. Psychosocial challenges and the uncontrolled complications of morbid obesity require highly competent and compassionate support. Furniture, hospital equipment, instruments and imaging resources must be suitable for massive patients who often exceed their ideal body weight by 100 pounds or more.
Especially important is a well-trained staff, capable of dealing with the physical and emotional demands of the morbidly obese.
Faced with these issues, the ASBS identified the need to recognize the centers that perform well and to help surgeons and hospitals reach optimal levels of performance. The program was created to recognize bariatric surgery centers, while helping hospitals and surgeons continue to improve the quality and safety of care provided.
“We are pleased that the medical community is recognizing hospitals that excel in surgical weight loss,” said Adams. “The number of weight loss surgeries increases each year, and we believe individuals choosing weight loss surgery should have information about the programs they are considering as well as affordable access to these procedures. Our designation reaffirms our commitment to providing quality care and services to our patients.”
Obesity in America
According to the SRC, obesity is America’s most serious health epidemic. Over two thirds of US citizens are overweight; a frightening statistic that continues to increase each year. Of even greater concern, over 23 million Americans are morbidly obese, which means that they have a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than 35, exceeding their ideal body weight by at least 100 pounds. One third of these, a population equal to that of North Carolina, attain BMI’s greater than 40.
Those afflicted by these severe forms of obesity are not only burdened by their bulk, that are also confronted with life-threatening diseases that may include diabetes, hypertension and severe pulmonary compromise. Morbid obesity is closely correlated with a number of serious conditions that severely undermine the health of overweight patients, including heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes.
According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, the number of US bariatric surgeries more than quadrupled between 1998 and 2002 – from 13,386 to 71,733. Bariatric surgery helps many people who are morbidly obese lose weight when all other methods have failed.
About Our Program
The Bariatric Program at Palms of Pasadena Hospital performs approximately 200 surgeries annually. Its program is designed to help patients lose weight and keep it off. The program’s goal is to go beyond surgery by providing a life-changing program that includes nutritional guidance, support groups and coordination of counseling services.
The program is affiliated with experienced, board-certified surgeons who specialize in the surgical treatment of morbidly obese patients. We offer the Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass both open and laparoscopic as well as the less invasive adjustable Lap Band. For more information visit www.ObesityNoMoreFL.com.
About Our Hospital
Palms of Pasadena Hospital, fully accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, was founded during 1963 and, over the years, has gradually expanded services to meet the needs of our community. Currently, Palms of Pasadena Hospital provides a broad array of inpatient and outpatient services along with specialty programs such as the Continent Ostomy Program, Baraitric Care, Radiation Oncology, Sleep Disorder Program, Wound Health and Home Health care. Its mission is to provide quality healthcare by a team committed to value and continuous improvement. Dedicated to this mission are over 300 physicians, 900 full and part-time healthcare professionals and over 175 volunteers. For more information, visit the hospital’s website at www.palmspasadena.com or call 727.341.7706.
Contact:
Susan Kay R.N., Dir. Specialty Surgical Services
Phone: 727.341.7706
See Keith's interview on Fox13 News