Claxton-Hepburn

Reasons to Celebrate Two of Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center's service lines and one of its physicians recently received impressive honors. Achieving Excellence in Breast Care THE AMERICAN COLLEGE of Radiology (ACR) designated the Claxton-Hepburn Breast Health Center at the Connection for Women a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence. The title recognizes the Breast Health Center's accreditations in services associated with diagnosing breast cancer—the most recent being the imaging department's recognition for breast ultrasound. All of Claxton-Hepburn's imaging modalities now meet the high standards of ACR accreditation. "Becoming an ACR Breast Imaging Center of Excellence demonstrates Claxton-Hepburn's commitment to providing the very best in breast imaging care," says Ali Gharagozloo, MD, medical director of radiology at Claxton-Hepburn. "Our staff has worked hard to accomplish this prestigious recognition that helps ensure our patients receive the most advanced, state-of-the-art breast imaging care available." Leading Lady The 48th Senate District of New York recently honored Kiri Brandy, MD, general surgeon at Claxton-Hepburn, as one of 17 Women of Distinction nominees from Jefferson, Oswego, and St. Lawrence counties. The Women of Distinction program recognized Dr. Brandy for her medical volunteerism and for helping lead the development of the Breast Health Center. Taking Quality Care to Heart Transthoracic echocardiography is a non-invasive imaging method cardiologists use to gauge whether patients' hearts are functioning properly. The Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC) recently recognized the echocardiography team at Claxton-Hepburn for its high standards in performing this important diagnostic test, awarding Claxton-Hepburn a three-year accreditation for adult transthoracic echocardiography. The designation signifies the team's adherence to proven care protocols and dedication to patient comfort and safety. To stay up to date on the latest news from your community hospital, visit www.claxtonhepburn.org. The Cardiology Department at Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center receives a national accreditation. Shown from left are Claxton-Hepburn President and CEO Mark Webster; Carol Lytle, RN; Bansi Bazaz, MD; Geetanjli Sangwan, MD; Technical Director Kathy White; and Cardiographic Sonographer Renee Palmer.  The Auxiliary Gives Back In May, the Auxiliary of Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center presented the hospital with a generous donation of more than $119,000 at a dinner held at the Gran-View. "EVERY YEAR, THE Auxiliary goes to different departments in the hospital to see if there are needs to be met," says Mary LaCombe, president Members of the Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center Auxiliary gathered at a special dinner event to present a large donation to the hospital. of the Auxiliary at Claxton-Hepburn. "Throughout the year, we host many events, including craft sales, the popular Festival of Trees, and uniform and book sales for employees, as well as run a very profitable gift shop. All of the proceeds from these ventures go directly back to the hospital." No Cause Too Big or Small This year, the Auxiliary presented the hospital with a check for $100,000 toward the next capital campaign. In addition, the Auxiliary donated funds to the Richard E. Winter Cancer Treatment Center toward the purchase of a new chemotherapy chair, helping ensure patient comfort while undergoing treatment. Funds to finance the installation of a new paging system were donated to the Cancer Treatment Center and the Agarwal Renal Center. Monies were donated to purchase new state-of-the art equipment from Lifeline®. The Obstetrics Department received funding for Swaddles, a wrap that allows newborns an opportunity to transition into their new surroundings feeling safe and warm. The Auxiliary also purchased several subscriptions for magazines to be distributed throughout hospital waiting rooms. "We are so proud to have the continued support of employees and the community," says LaCombe. "The Auxiliary is honored to play a part in enhancing health care for residents of the The North Country." Want to take part? Learn how you can help the Auxiliary throughout the year by visiting www.claxtonhepburn.org and clicking "Auxiliary" under "Giving & Volunteering."

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