黑料吃瓜网

Elevating Health is a series of 1-minute informational segments about health topics that matter to you and your family. Tune in to 黑料吃瓜网 Radio weekday afternoons to learn about important medical advances, new procedures, and ground-breaking treatments to help you get well and stay well. Elevating Health is funded by .

Hartford HealthCare offers a wide array of FREE, virtual classes, webinars and support groups that you can join from the convenience and privacy of your home. For more information:

Mitral Valve Repair with Dr. Sabet Hashim

The Hartford HealthCare Heart & Vascular Institute, a national leader in cardiovascular disease prevention, treatment, surgery and research, cares for more patients and performs more advanced cardiac procedures than any other cardiac program in 黑料吃瓜网 with doctors using the most innovative technology available to provide the very best, personalized care for patients.

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New Parkinson鈥檚 Drug with Dr. Toni DiMarcaida

At the Chase Family Movement Disorders Center, we are experts in the treatment of Parkinson鈥檚 disease. The program is one of the first Comprehensive Care Centers designated by the Parkinson鈥檚 Foundation鈥檚 prestigious Global Care Network. As part of this network, our clinicians can work with colleagues from other highly regarded institutions to advance patient care and improve the quality of life for people with Parkinson鈥檚 disease.

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ECMO: Lifesaving treatment for cardiac and respiratory failure with Dr. Jason Gluck

is director of the mechanical circulatory support program and emergency cardiac care at .

The Heart & Vascular Institute, at Hartford Hospital, is among the few area hospitals to offer ECMO 鈥� an amazing procedure that directly oxygenates the blood so damaged hearts and lungs can rest and recover.

And we鈥檙e the only hospital in New England to offer portable ECMO, so we can even bring this lifesaving technology to other hospitals. Just one more way we鈥檙e striving to make more advancements accessible to more people.

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The Risks of Loneliness with Dr. Laura Saunders

is a psychologist from Hartford HealthCare .

Many are calling loneliness and social isolation the next health crisis. 鈥淗uman beings are social creatures,鈥� says Saunders. Our connection to each other is what helps us to survive and thrive.鈥�

Dr. Saunders explains that social isolation can lead to some very significant health problems including cognitive decline, heart disease, obesity and can even weaken your immune system. She says it鈥檚 a very serious social health problem.

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Dr. Devika Umashanker discusses medical weight loss and the recent FDA approval of Zepbound

If you're ready to take the next step in your weight loss journey, then you might be wondering what's right for you - bariatric surgery or weight loss pills like Ozempic. But the answer really depends on you.

鈥淲hen you are looking to lose weight and improve your quality of health, I think you have to be open to both options and see what is best for you,鈥� explains the system medical director of 鈥淚t鈥檚 important to be flexible and adaptable to what can get you the best results.鈥�

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Dr. Carl Moeller explains Inspire therapy for sleep apnea

If you suffer from sleep apnea and your C-PAP machine isn鈥檛 helping, there is another treatment option: an implantable device to treat moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. is an ear, nose and throat specialist with the .

Inspire Therapy is a minimally invasive, implantable neuro-stimulator that continually monitors breathing during sleep for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

How Inspire Works

An Inspire therapy-trained doctor will evaluate your overall health and perform testing to see if Inspire therapy may be a better alternative to .

The Inspire system works completely inside your body with your natural breathing process to treat OSA. While you are sleeping, Inspire delivers mild stimulation to the hypoglossal nerve which controls the movement of the tongue and other muscles in the airway. By stimulating the nerve, the tongue and other tissues move out of the airway so you can breathe during sleep.

Inspire therapy is controlled using the Inspire Sleep Remote. The Inspire Sleep Remote allows you to turn the therapy on and off, adjust stimulation strength, and pause stimulation during the night if needed.

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Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 Ridge Recovery Center

It鈥檚 easy to access alcohol and drugs like opioids in 黑料吃瓜网. But access to high-quality recovery treatment has been hard to find.

Until now. A ribbon-cutting at Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 Ridge Recovery Center in Windham Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2023, signaled a change affecting the lives of thousands with substance use disorder.

鈥淭his began with a great vision,鈥� Hartford HealthCare President and CEO Jeffrey Flaks told a crowd gathered for the event. 鈥淭his is a perfect setting where people can get help from empathetic, caring people delivering world-class recovery care, and doubles the size of our program for people with substance use needs.鈥�

New Lung Screening Guidelines with Dr. Justin Van Backer

Lung screening is important for several reasons, primarily related to early detection and prevention of lung-related diseases, especially .

Detection of Other Lung Conditions: Lung screening may also detect other lung-related conditions besides lung cancer, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and pulmonary nodules. Early detection of these conditions can lead to timely management and better health outcomes.

with the at , answers four common questions about .

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FDA Approval of Heart Inflammation Drug with Dr. Brett Nowlan

A common drug used to treat joint pain is now being used to help treat heart inflammation, according to doctors.

The Federal Drug Administration approved the use of this medication over the summer, which can now be used to prevent heart attacks for some patients.

鈥淭his is very exciting,鈥� says , a cardiologist with Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 Heart and Vascular Institute. 鈥淚t offers us an entirely new and unique way of lowering risks of heart attacks and strokes.鈥�

Dr. Nowlan says it鈥檚 important to talk with your cardiologist about this new approach to see if it鈥檚 a good option for you. 鈥淐olchicine is best used for people at higher risk and as an add on to other medications like cholesterol lowering medications rather than a substitute.鈥�

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Osteoporosis 鈥� Chris Barrett

, MS, RD, CSCS, is a registered dietitian and nutritionist with Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 .

In addition to remaining on the Vitamin D dosage prescribed by their provider, Barrett says people with osteoporosis can improve their bond strength in several ways, including following a well-balanced exercise program that includes resistance training or lifting weights.

鈥淗ere at the Bone and Joint Institute, we have a class for people over 60 to help them combat osteoporosis and sarcopenia, or muscle loss, as they age,鈥� he said.

Add natural sources of protein and micronutrients like magnesium and Vitamin K to your diet.

鈥淭his is where working with a registered dietitian can support individuals with osteoporosis and maximize their overall dietary intake,鈥� Barrett said.

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Young Athletes and Brain Health 鈥� Dr. Stephanie Alessi-LaRosa

, is a sports neurologist and the director of . On the Hartford HealthCare team, she is responsible for providing advanced care for athletes with sports-related neurologic injuries and conditions. Her areas of clinical interest include concussion, post-concussion syndrome and migraines/headaches.

Student athletes and weekend warriors alike all enjoy what they do, whether it's in the pool, on the court, or in the saddle. If they鈥檙e hurt while playing 鈥� or have a neurologic condition that might make it challenging to compete 鈥� they can find help at the Ayer Neuroscience Institute Sports Neurology Program.

The program, one of the few in the country, is led by 黑料吃瓜网鈥檚 only neurologist with advanced training in sports neurology, Dr. Stephanie Alessi-LaRosa. Her patient-focused work, which includes collaboration with other specialists, has one goal: Restoring the athletes to health and helping them return to their sport as quickly and safely as possible.

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Leqembi approved for treating Alzheimers with Dr. Mark J. Alberts

Earlier this month, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the drug Leqembi via the Accelerated Approval pathway for the treatment of Alzheimer鈥檚 disease. co-physician-in-chief for and neurology chief at says it鈥檚 the first disease modifying therapy that has been shown to work. 鈥淭his is a very significant and promising advancement 鈥� not a cure, but it could change the course of the disease. It鈥檚 a positive step in the right direction.鈥�

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A personalized approach in treating AFib with Dr. Jawad Haider

, is an interventional cardiologist at Hartford Hospital and is co-director of the at Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 Heart & Vascular Institute.

The Structural Heart Disease Program helps you manage congenital abnormalities, diagnose underlying conditions that damage or otherwise change the heart and treat acquired structural heart conditions, when possible, with new technology that does not require conventional open-heart surgery.

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Backus Public Safety Team Training to Carry Narcan

Members of the Backus Hospital Public Safety team have begun training to carry NARCAN, a life-saving medication that can reverse an overdose from opioids鈥攊ncluding heroin, fentanyl, and prescription opioid medications in minutes. The decision to implement the program was prompted by an increase in incidents where public safety officers were called to assist unresponsive individuals in the hospital parking lots.

鈥淐arrying naloxone is no different than carrying an epinephrine auto-injector for someone with allergies,鈥� said Gen Boas, Director of Public Safety at both Backus and Windham hospitals. 鈥淚t simply provides an extra layer of protection for those at a higher risk for overdose and enables our team to have one more tool to help them protect the communities we serve.鈥�

Preventing golf injuries with Dr. Nicholas Bontempo

, an orthopaedic surgeon at , is also an avid golfer. He鈥檚 got some great tips on how to better your game and prevent injury.

鈥淭he entire body can be affected when playing golf,鈥� says Dr. Bontempo. 鈥淪tretching beforehand, warming up and taking lessons are key to preventing injuries. You want your core strength to improve your swing, your drives and taking stress away from the other parts of your body.鈥�

Could You be a Candidate for Advanced Wound Care?

If you have a difficult-to-heal wound, you may require help from one of . An estimated three to five million Americans suffer from non-healing wounds. A doctor should always be alerted if you have a wound or sore that doesn't heal.

Examples include:

• Diabetic foot ulcers
• Venous stasis ulcers
• Arterial ulcers
• Wounds caused by circulatory problems
• Pressure sores
• Burns
• Non-healing surgical wounds

A wound that doesn't heal is a particular risk for patients with diabetes, who may have developed nerve damage and circulatory problems in their feet and legs. As a result, injuries to these areas may heal very slowly or not at all. In addition, diabetics may not even be aware of the fact that they've developed a cut or sore on their feet or legs. This can lead to infection and damage to tissue and bones if the infection spreads. In some cases, amputation may be necessary. For cuts or wounds that don't heal, doctors have special bandaging techniques and ointments that can help a wound heal faster and reduce the risk of permanent damage. Our Wound Care Center can provide a multi-disciplinary, specialized approach, with a team of internists, vascular surgeons, podiatrists, reconstructive surgeons, nurses and other specialists.

Dr. Geoffrey Emerick: Glaucoma 

While glaucoma includes several types of eye conditions, they all result damage to the optic nerve, possible blindness if untreated. is an ophthalmologist with the Hartford Hospital .

Emerick says those over 60, Black and Hispanic patients, and those with a family history are at a higher risk for glaucoma. If you do have that family history you should start getting eye exams in your 40s as opposed to your 60s.

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Alan Solinsky, MD - Artificial Tears

, founded in 1998, provides surgical care for cataracts, glaucoma, corneal disease and select retinal diseases. The Center performs more than 10,000 procedures a year, the vast majority of them cataracts.

, is an ophthalmologist with the Hartford HealthCare Eye Surgery Center in Newington and a clinical instructor with the University of 黑料吃瓜网 School of Medicine. His areas of expertise include cataract laser surgery and glaucoma.

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Duarte Machado, MD - Essential Tremor

Duarte Machado, MD, is the director of Program Excellence and Recognition at the David & Rhoda Chase Family Movement Disorders Center. The center aims to empower people with Parkinson鈥檚 disease and other movement disorders to do the things they love while providing a unique, comprehensive treatment plan that begins with a careful diagnosis.

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Tom McDonald, MD 鈥� Bunions

Types of bunion surgery

There are more than 100 surgeries for bunions. Research doesn't show which type of surgery is best. Your surgery needs to be specific to your condition. More than one procedure may be done at the same time. Surgeries include:

• Removal of part of the metatarsal head. (It's the part of the foot that is bulging out.) This procedure is called exostectomy or bunionectomy.
• Realignment of the soft tissues (ligaments) around the big toe joint.
• Making small cuts in the bones (osteotomy) and moving the bones into a more normal position.
• Removal of bone from the end of the first metatarsal bone, which joins with the base of the big toe (metatarsophalangeal joint). At the metatarsophalangeal joint, both the big toe and metatarsal bones are reshaped (resection arthroplasty).
• Fusion (arthrodesis) of the big toe joint.
• Fusion of the joint where the metatarsal bone joins the mid-foot (Lapidus procedure).
• Implant insertion of all or part of an artificial joint.

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Hartford HealthCare Behavioral Health Network

For almost two centuries, the members of the Hartford HealthCare (HHC) Behavioral Health Network (BHN) have been connecting children, adolescents and adults with the behavioral health services they need.

The BHN provides the full continuum of both mental health and substance abuse recovery services 鈥� quality, community-based treatment programs provided by caring, knowledgeable and experienced clinicians, personalized to the needs of every client and integrated with their primary care health needs.

Learn more about the

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Jacob Jabbour, DO, HOCC Hand Surgeon

Innovative Treatment for Trigger Finger

The Hospital of Central 黑料吃瓜网 is the first in the state to use a device that helps alleviate symptoms of trigger finger for patients. Sonex Health鈥檚 UltraGuideTFR鈩� is used in conjunction with real-time ultrasound guidance to perform trigger finger release (TFR) procedures. Doctors perform the procedure under local anesthesia through a small hand incision, which may be closed without sutures. This allows a faster recovery for patients 鈥� allowing them to return to work and other activities in a matter of days, versus weeks with traditional trigger finger surgery.
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Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 Center for Healthy Aging is a free resource and assessment center designed to make it easier for seniors, their loved ones and caregivers to access essential information about services.

Did you serve in the military?
The state and federal departments of Veterans Affairs might have some benefits for you.
Resource Coordinators at the Center for Healthy Aging can help you navigate available resources and benefits.

IBS with Dr. John David Wysocki

is a gastroenterologist with the and is currently accepting new patients. Dr. Wysocki鈥檚 areas of expertise include colon cancer, Crohn's disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and more.

Connect with a digestive health specialist

Hartford HealthCare Digestive Health is a comprehensive resource for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of a full range of gastrointestinal disorders.

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Workplace Anxiety with Emily Lynch

Quiet quitting, worker burnout, the infamous 鈥済rind鈥�: Work anxiety is as high as it鈥檚 ever been for Americans. The question is what to do about it. or just every now and then, Emily Lynch, LCSW, has advice.

For specific or short-term work anxiety, like an upcoming presentation, focus on the facts.

鈥淎nxiety makes us second-guess ourselves to the point of thinking, 鈥業 can鈥檛 manage that,鈥欌�� says Lynch, a licensed clinical social worker with the team. 鈥淲e need to remind ourselves, 鈥業 can do this. but I can do it.鈥欌��

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Need help coping with stress? Our integrated primary care team can connect you with mental health support.

, a pulmonologist at , says its critically important for those with chronic lung conditions like COPD receive their flu and COVID vaccinations because both illnesses can be especially dangerous to them.

More about this year鈥檚 flu season:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that many people have opted to get their COVID booster first and delay their flu vaccine. The concern is that the vaccine takes up to two weeks to be fully effective and flu is already circulating widely.

More about the current COVID variants:

The CDC reported last week that the Omicron subvariants BQ.1 and BQ1.1 currently account for 35% of current COVID cases in the country, up from 23% the week before. Protection against both subvariants is available in the Immunity from the original vaccine wanes and boosters are necessary for continued protection.

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The Hartford HealthCare Heart & Vascular Institute鈥榮 Cardio-Oncology Program

is a cardiologist in New Britain, 黑料吃瓜网 and is affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area, including and .

鈥淎s a cardio-oncologist, I see patients who are receiving chemotherapies that have the potential to cause injury to the heart - and to help prevent that sort of injury and to treat it if it occurs,鈥� said Cuomo.

The Hartford HealthCare Heart & Vascular Institute鈥榮 Cardio-Oncology Program is a team of expert cardiologists working in partnership with oncologists to diagnose and treat heart conditions caused by some cancer treatments.

treats patients at any stage of cancer therapy and beyond, providing comprehensive, coordinated and personalized care so they can live their best lives.

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Lung Cancer Screening: Dr. Andrew Salner

Lung cancer takes almost twice as many lives in 黑料吃瓜网 each year compared to breast and colon cancers combined.

Now, there is more hope for lung cancer patients - thanks to low dose CT screening being offered across Hartford HealthCare which can detect lung cancer early, when it鈥檚 more curable.

is Medical Director of the Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute at Hartford Hospital.

鈥淎s with many cancers, lung cancer can often be successfully treated when we catch it early enough,鈥� said Salner. 鈥淭his broadens our ability to identify people at those early stages, when we can help them the most, and it would certainly save and extend lives.鈥�

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Hartford HealthCare's Cancer Institute, backed by an alliance with the renowned Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, provides innovative care close to home.

Four Ways to Protect Your Eyes From Too Much Screen Time

With American adults averaging more than seven hours a day in front of digital devices, ophthalmologist Alan Solinsky, MD, of the Hartford Hospital Eye Surgery Center has this advice to protect your eyes after so much screen time:

1. Blink more. Sounds simple, right? But Solinsky says you should remember to blink often if you鈥檙e staring at the screen for more than a few minutes at a time.
2. Use over-the-counter wetting eye drops (not the anti-reddening ones like Visine) when your eyes get too dry. If those aren鈥檛 working, talk to your eye doctor about prescription eye drops.
3. Make sure you have the right prescription for your glasses for intermediate distance. Distance glasses or readers won鈥檛 work. Invest in a pair of computer or blue light glasses which filter certain light waves and protect your eyes from damage. They can be purchased by prescription or over-the-counter.
4. Follow the 20/20/20 rule. That means looking away from your screen every 20 minutes, look 20 feet into the distance and stretch for 20 seconds

There鈥檚 no need to delay care that may improve, enhance or preserve your vision. Hartford Hospital's Eye Surgery Center, founded in 1998, provides surgical care for cataracts, glaucoma, corneal disease and select retinal diseases. The Center performs more than 10,000 procedures a year, the vast majority of them cataracts.

Dr. Alan Solinsky is a graduate of the Univ. of CT School of Medicine. He trained at Hartford Hospital, Hahnemann Univ., and St. Christopher鈥檚 Hospital for Children. He is a clinical instructor for the Dept. of Surgery at the Univ. of CT. He is a Board Certified Ophthalmologist and is a Member and Diplomat of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the National Board of Medical Examiners. He has performed thousands of micro-surgical eye operations and has been in practice since 1990. He was selected as one of America鈥檚 top Ophthalmologists by the Consumer Research Council of America, and also as one of 黑料吃瓜网鈥檚 Top Doctors by 黑料吃瓜网 Magazine.

Hoarding disorder is surprisingly common and can range from tolerable to hazardous and can make the person suffering, or the people around them, miserable.

In this episode of More Life, , medical director of the at the Institute of Living, part of the , helps us identify the difference between messy and hoarding and sheds some light on how a genetic predisposition, previous life event, or even impaired cognitive function may contribute to the disorder.

Listen to the full episode:

Who is Dr. Tolin?

is the author of over 200 scientific journal articles, as well as the books Doing CBT: A Comprehensive Guide to Working with Behaviors, Thoughts, and Emotions, Buried in Treasures: Help for Compulsive Acquiring, Saving, and Hoarding and Face Your Fears: A Proven Plan to Beat Anxiety, Panic, Phobias, and Obsessions.

Dr. Tolin has been featured on the reality TV series 鈥淗oarders,鈥� 鈥淭he OCD Project,鈥� and 鈥淢y Shopping Addiction,鈥� and has been a recurrent guest on 鈥淭he Oprah Winfrey Show鈥� and 鈥淭he Dr. Oz Show.鈥�

Behavioral Health Crisis Unit

recently unveiled a Behavioral Health Crisis Unit, a state-of-the-art, 10-bed private wing adjacent to the

The 3,740-square-foot space, designed with safety, privacy and comfort in mind for patients, separates Emergency Department patients with physical health issues from behavioral health patients 鈥� making the experience better for all.

James O鈥橠ea, PhD, MBA, senior vice president of the said there is an explosion of mental health and substance abuse issues nationally and locally, but only four out of every 10 patients who need behavioral health care can get it 鈥� even though their conditions are largely treatable. 鈥淭his is really about how do we better engage with our patients,鈥� said O鈥橠ea. 鈥淚t presents more opportunities for them to get to us so we can navigate them through the care that they need.鈥�

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Neighborhood Health

Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 Neighborhood Health initiative is designed to bring more health prevention services and support directly to the people and communities we serve. It鈥檚 part of a larger commitment to helping all people live their healthiest lives by providing more outreach and healthcare opportunities throughout 黑料吃瓜网.

The Neighborhood Health mobile 鈥淐areVans鈥� visit and operate daytime health clinics several times a month at specifically chosen locations. They offer a variety of health services including screenings, mental health counseling, medical referrals, education and support and key vaccinations.

Neighborhood Health was developed in collaboration with trusted community partners throughout the state. These groups and individuals helped determine the health needs and priorities for their residents and communities. These innovative health clinics will be adaptable, flexible, and open to feedback to ensure access to needed services and programs.

We are currently offering clinics in Hartford, Torrington, Winsted and Thomaston, and plans to expand services to locations statewide over time.

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Kidney Stones: Dr. Evan Shreck

is a urologist with the Hartford Healthcare practicing at . His areas of expertise include: Adult circumcision, benign prostatic hyperplasia, bladder cancer, enlarged prostate, erectile dysfunction, prostate cancer, vasectomy, kidney stones.

Kidney stones can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

1. Sharp, stabbing pain on one side of the back, under the ribs
2. Pain in the lower stomach, groin or genital area
3. Burning pain when you urinate
4. Blood in your urine
5. Nausea or vomiting
6. Fever
7. Abnormal color or smell to your urine
8. Frequent urge to urinate

Diagnosing Kidney Stones:

To diagnose a kidney stone, the experts with the use the following:

1. Physical exam and your health history
2. Urine tests
3. Blood tests
4. Diagnostic imaging such as low-dose CT scans and ultrasound

about kidney stones diagnosis and treatment options.

discuss managing kidney stones.

Institute of Living: Dr. Javeed Sukhera

The journey of mental health care through the 19th and 20th centuries is a fascinating one. From the barbaric early days, where those with mental health conditions were hidden from society - to controversial measures like shock treatment.

The , the first institution of its kind in 黑料吃瓜网 and just the third in the nation, played a significant role in fundamentally changing approaches to mental health 鈥� blazing a trail of moral, ethical treatment for others to follow.

In episode three of our podcast series, The Evolution of Mental Health Care: 200 years at Hartford HealthCare's Institute of Living, Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 Steve Coates talks to , chair of psychiatry at the Institute of Living and chief of the Department of Psychiatry at .

They discuss the impact the pandemic has had on mental health in the U.S. and the increasing need for access to quality care. They also explore how the IOL has historically pivoted to meet the needs of any given era and a future filled with new possibilities - such as psychedelic therapies and facilities and programs that are designed with the help of patients themselves.

featuring the 黑料吃瓜网 Historical Society

featuring Dr. Hank Schwartz

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Stress surge - Dr. Carla Schnitzlein

Maybe, at the start of the pandemic, you diligently read up on infection prevention, and took every potential health risk very seriously.

But at some point, perhaps you stopped searching for new information 鈥� or turned away from the latest risk or recommendation. A new subvariant? A rising threat of monkeypox? It can be overwhelming and some of us just shut down.

Crisis fatigue is a real thing, and psychiatrist medical director of part of the , helps us understand what happens to some of us, both physically and mentally.

鈥淚 think of surge capacity as our body鈥檚 backup generator,鈥� she says 鈥淒uring a storm, our backup generator kicks on to keep the power on for essential things 鈥� like our mood, our stress levels and our sleep.鈥� This happens through a boost of neurochemicals like norepinephrine and epinephrine, which lend extra support to our body鈥檚 systems.

There could be any number of explanations, from a shift in your personal risk tolerance to the protection of vaccines to simply becoming desensitized to bad news.

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Knee replacement - Dr. Scott Stanat

, Chief of Orthopedics at , gives us some common indicators that can suggest you are a candidate for total knee replacement.

鈥淏one on bone arthritis can be a big factor,鈥� he explains. 鈥淲hen the smooth portion of cartilage wears away on your knee, it can take a toll on your daily activities. For patients who have exhausted non-surgical options, and if the pain is affecting their daily living 鈥� replacement may be the best option for them.鈥�

Backus Hospital is the only hospital in Southeastern 黑料吃瓜网 to offer the latest a new robotic surgery for hip and knee procedures. 鈥淭his technology gives me an extra tool to ensure accuracy,鈥� says Stanat. 鈥淚n a partial knee procedure for example, I鈥檓 able to manually stretch and balance the knee during surgery and use the computer navigation to my advantage - assuring proper alignment and balance.鈥�

Hernia: Dr. Vijay Jayaraman

is a surgeon at who specializes in hernia.

Did you know that nearly 1 million hernia operations are performed each year in the U.S.?

Hernias are abnormal bulges created by a weakness or hole, usually in the abdominal wall or groin. A hernia can also be defined as an exit of an organ, such as a bowel, through the wall of the cavity in which it normally resides. A localized bulge in the abdomen or groin caused by a hernia is a common problem that can range from pain-free to painful.

Hernias can be congenital, which are present at birth, or can develop secondary to tissue weakness in the abdominal wall or groin.

Activities and medical problems that increase the abdominal wall pressure can also lead to a hernia. Some examples of these are straining due to long-term constipation issues or urinating, persistent cough, lifting heavy items and physical exertion. Poor nutrition, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, obesity, pregnancy, previous surgeries (specifically open surgeries) and smoking are also some risk factors for the development of a hernia.

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Men鈥檚 Health: Dr. Jared Bieniek

In this episode of Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 More Life podcast, , medical director of Men鈥檚 Health at Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 , gets into some very important topics for men 鈥� and anyone who loves them.

While vasectomy is a sensitive topic, is it really a good option for birth control? And more importantly for some, is it reversable, and is it covered by insurance? Dr. Bieniek has answers.

In addition to overall men鈥檚 health, Steve and Dr. Bieniek also get into Zero Prostate. It鈥檚 a movement to create Generation Zero 鈥� the first generation of men free from prostate cancer. Hartford HealthCare and Tallwood have partnered with Zero Prostate Cancer, a national organization, to raise funds for research with a Zero Prostate 5k family run scheduled for June 12 in Hartford.

Mammograms 鈥� Dr. Diana James

It鈥檚 never been more important to be sure you鈥檙e up to date on your mammogram. In 2022, an estimated 287,850 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women in the U.S., along with 51,400 new cases of non-invasive (in situ) breast cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.

For women at average risk and no personal or family history of breast cancer, annual screening is recommended beginning at age 40 and will be covered by your insurance.

鈥淧remenopausal women are more at risk for aggressive form of breast cancer and should be screened every year,鈥� said , director of Breast Imaging at . 鈥淎fter menopause, the average person can usually go to every two years for their mammogram. Dr. James says your doctor will help you determine your risk history to help determine your screening schedule.

Schedule a mammogram near you

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Allergic Eyes 鈥� Dr. Alan Solinsky

Spring means pollen - and for many of us red, itchy eyes. What causes this reaction?

鈥淎llergic reaction is mostly due to the release of histamines,鈥� says , an ophthalmologist with the . 鈥淗istamines are trying to sequester the allergens, but they overdo it and you get the itchy, burning, teary eyes.鈥�

Dr. Solinky鈥檚 advice:

• Try to keep your fingers away from your eyes
• Wear goggles or sunglasses during outdoor activity like gardening
• Use antihistamine a half hour before you think you鈥檒l be exposed to the pollen

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Hammer toe 鈥� Dr. Tom McDonald

is an orthopaedic surgeon with , where patients have access to leading edge technologies.

If you have severe pain in a 鈥渃rooked toe鈥� that interferes with your daily activities, and if nonsurgical treatments such as roomier footwear, exercises, and pain medicine have not helped, you and your doctor may choose surgical reconstruction for your Hammertoe deformity.

In this procedure, the surgeon performs minimal bone resection and careful rebalancing of soft tissues, so that the toe can lie flat. Tendons and ligaments are relaxed and rebalanced to allow for correct toe position and less pain. Sometimes Surgical implants are used to hold the straightened toe in place until it has healed. Sometimes minimally invasive surgical techniques can be combined with careful postoperative dressing changes, to maintain the surgically corrected position.

Unless there are overall health concerns, you probably won't have to spend a night away from home - Most people have this surgery as an .

Fighting Headaches

The Hartford HealthCare (HHC) and the internationally-recognized (MRF) recently announced an official, permanent collaboration.

In this episode, Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 Steve Coates talks with the Headache Center鈥檚 medical director who explains how this one-of-a-kind program is advancing research and treatment in the field of headaches.

Check the notes in this episode to learn more about the Headache Center, their research, services and upcoming programs and classes. Or go to .

Subscribe or follow Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 More Life to be notified each time a new episode drops. Just search 鈥淗artford HealthCare鈥� on your favorite podcast platform.

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Hartford HealthCare programs and classes

ADHD Study 鈥� Michael C. Stevens, Ph.D.

Michael Stevens, Ph.D., is the Director of Child & Adolescent Research at .

The variously focuses on research of several psychiatric disorders commonly seen in pediatric groups, including Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Conduct Disorder, and Autism Spectrum Disorders.

ADHD Treatment Clinical Trial - Executive Working Memory Training Study: This paid study for teens (age 12-18) with ADHD is examining a new potential treatment for ADHD. Participants can experience a free trial of a newly designed intervention that trains your brain's working memory system with the goal of reducing ADHD symptoms. We use safe, non-invasive functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) to explore whether the online executive working memory training program can effectively alter brain connectivity and clinically improve symptoms of ADHD. Participation includes interviews, 2 fMRI scans, and 5 weeks of online executive working memory training. Volunteers will be compensated $20 per hour plus additional compensation for completing the entire study. Participation will take 8-10 hours and will be split into separate visits.

DBS 鈥� Dr. Patrick Senatus

, Medical Director of the for the Hartford HealthCare , treated Loreli with Deep Brain Stimulation, or DBS, a surgical procedure that helped free Loreli from decades of medication and maintain her independence 鈥� tremor free.

Listen to the full podcast

Learn more about Deep Brain Stimulation at . Be sure to subscribe to Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 More Life podcast for more episodes on a wide range of important health topics. Just search 鈥淗artford HealthCare鈥� on your favorite podcast platform.

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Fentanyl 鈥� Dr. J. Craig Allen

The pandemic and societal stressors are putting our children, and others, at more risk than ever before. Dr. Allen provides some critical warnings we all need to be aware of to help us get a handle on the dangerous and sometimes deadly pandemic of substance abuse.

In this episode of Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 More Life podcast, , Vice President of Addiction Services for discusses the recent tragedy in which a 13-year-old died from a fentanyl overdose at his school in Hartford, 黑料吃瓜网.

Listen to the full podcast

Primary Care Physician 鈥� Dr. May Mokbelpur

With a new year comes a commitment to better health for many. For - a primary care physician for in Wethersfield - there鈥檚 one area she tells people to focus on if they鈥檙e making healthy New Year鈥檚 resolutions.

鈥淚t鈥檚 what you eat,鈥� says Mokbelpur. 鈥淏asically, what we put in our bodies is the most important thing.鈥�

Dr. Mokbelpur stresses the importance of planning ahead to help prevent bad choices. 

鈥淚nvest a little bit of time and effort in having the right healthy choices close to us in case we get hungry. For example, a sugar-free protein bar or some nuts or a salad. It鈥檚 good to pack something in advance.鈥�

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Winter Eye Safety: Dr. Alan Solinsky

Open fires in the hearth, holiday decorating and popping champagne corks - they are just a few of the pleasures of the winter season, but to Ophthalmologist of the there are some potential dangers for your eyes. He says it鈥檚 not uncommon for him to see patients who鈥檝e been poked by a pine needle or a broken glass ornament.

鈥淵ou can get a corneal abrasion,鈥� says Solinsky. 鈥淵ou can get a chemical conjunctivitis. Whatever debris is left on your eye from that particular particle stays in your eye and may cause some infection or inflammation.鈥�

Dr. Solinsky has more advice for protecting our eyes, regardless of the season, particularly for those who work from home.

鈥淭here are a variety of conditions working from home imposes on people that they might not otherwise face in an office or school setting,鈥� he said. 鈥淚n addition to less-than-ideal environments, people are spending more time on screens. Students doing remote learning, for example, spend all their educational time on them.鈥�

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Lung Cancer Screening: Dr. Andrew Salner

There is more hope for lung cancer patients. Thanks to low dose CT screening being offered across Hartford HealthCare, the cancer can be detected much earlier. is Medical Director of the Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute at

鈥淎s with many cancers, lung cancer can often be successfully treated when we catch it early enough,鈥� said Dr. Salner. 鈥淭his recommendation from the USPSTF would broaden our ability to identify people at those early stages, when we can help them the most, and it would certainly save and extend lives.鈥�

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To qualify for the annual screening patients must between 50- and 80- years old, currently smoke or have quit in the past 15 years, and averaged smoking a minimum one pack a day for 20 years.

Learn more about lung cancer screening

Lung Cancer Patient Guide The Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute, backed by an alliance with the renowned Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, provides innovative care close to home.

Aspirin & Heart Health: Dr. Stephanie Saucier

New federal recommendations say that those over 60 should not take daily aspirin for primary prevention against heart attack and stroke. , director of the at the , says there are some patients who should still take that daily tablet.

The Women鈥檚 Heart Wellness Program represents Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 dedication to identifying, treating and, whenever possible, preventing cardiovascular disease in women.

鈥淚 have prescribed aspirin for primary prevention; however I do not prescribe it for all comers,鈥� said Dr. Stephanie Saucier, director of Women鈥檚 Heart Wellness Program with the Hartford HealthCare Heart & Vascular Institute at Hartford Hospital. 鈥淭he idea that aspirin should be given to all patients for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease is no longer the mainstay of therapy.鈥�

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FREE virtual webinar: Wednesday, December 8

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Join board-certified cardiologist, Dr. Stephanie Saucier as she discusses the common tests for your heart. Learn what they are, what they help diagnose and what they mean. Dr. Saucier will talk about what you should expect before, during and after having a test. PLUS, a LIVE Q&A with the doctor will follow the presentation.

Prostate Exams: Dr. Joseph Wagner

, a surgeon with the , says he still recommends in-office prostate exams during men鈥檚 regular physical exam with their primary care provider. Dr. Wagner also weighs in on the importance of PSA screening.

A study in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute indicated that a U.S. Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendation five years ago downplaying the need for annual prostate specific antigen (PSA) screening in all men triggered the increase. At the same time, the incidence of early disease decreased, leading study authors to assert that the screening decline caused more cases to advance before being discovered.

鈥淲hen the PSA was first used to screen for prostate cancer in the 1990s, there was a huge increase in the number of cases being diagnosed, and the number of deaths started to decline because we were finding cancer and treating it early,鈥� Dr. Wagner said. 鈥淎t the same time, we were diagnosing a bunch of cases that never needed to be treated.

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Epilepsy with Dr. Gabriel Martz

, the director of , describes epileptic seizures as a short circuit of sorts in the brain. 鈥淎ny disturbance of the brain can cause a seizure.鈥� He explains that epilepsy is a chronic state where those seizures keep happening.

Long-term monitoring of seizures has helped Dr. Martz and his colleagues better determine treatment option for their epileptic patients.

鈥淲e鈥檝e had patients we have cured of epilepsy but they鈥檙e so anxious that they might have a seizure that they鈥檙e really limiting their own lives. As soon as a patient walks through our doors, we鈥檙e going to do everything we can to help them.鈥�

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Diabetic Eye Disease with Dr. Raji Mulukutla

Dr. Raji Mulukutla, an ophthalmologist with , says most diabetic eye disease is preventable. Annual visits, with a dilated exam is key.

Symptoms of diabetic eye disease can include:

1. blurry or wavy vision

2. frequently changing vision

3. dark areas or vision loss

4. flashes or spots of light (also called floaters)

Dr. Mulukutla, who is on the staff at Hartford Hospital Eye Surgery Center, is board-certified and a member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery.

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Pancreatic Cancer with Dr. Lindsay Bliss

, a surgeon with the and Digestive Health Center says tumor boards are one of the most important aspect that the Cancer Institute can offer patients. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a true multidisciplinary look at their care,鈥� she explains. 鈥淲e work together on a daily basis and keep a dialog going about the quality and quantity of their care.鈥�

Dr. Bliss also stresses that seeing someone trained Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary for pancreatic disease is key.

Join a free webinar on Nov. 16 with Dr. Lindsay Bliss

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Dr. Diana James, Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute, Breast Screening

a radiologist working with the , reminds women 40 and over to schedule their annual mammogram, especially if they鈥檝e been putting it off.

鈥淭ypically, they tell you to start screening 10 years before the youngest diagnosed female relative,鈥� said James.

Dr. James explains why breast screening may be especially important this year.

鈥淲e track breast cancer detection rates, which are the number of cancers diagnosed per 1,000 women screened. That rate dropped from 4.8 to 2.6 in 2020 at Hartford Hospital, which is substantially lower than 2019,鈥� she said. 鈥淥verall, the effect of the pandemic on screening for breast cancer is concerning to say the least.鈥�

Experts with the National Cancer Institute predict there will be about 10,000 more deaths in the United States from breast and colorectal cancer alone in the next decade, directly stemming from pandemic-related delays in cancer screening and treatment.

Read the full article

Schedule your mammogram

 

Screening mammograms generally take about 15 minutes. 

Download this free informational resource to learn more about this crucial diagnostic tool, how important it is to your overall health and how experts with 黑料吃瓜网鈥檚 largest breast care center and radiology groups can help.

Dr. Heather King, Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute, Breast Surgery

The life changing diagnosis of a breast cancer brings with it surgical decisions for new patients. , a breast surgeon with the , says there are several factors that determine that path.

The hidden scar surgical technique is allowing more women to undergo surgery with much less scarring and more preservation of the breast. Dr. King explains: 鈥淚t is allowing women to undergo surgery where the surgeon can then place the scars either around the areola or in the fold of their breasts, or from the armpit location.鈥�

How many of those requiring breast surgery can benefit from this technique? 鈥淚 would say about 80 to 85 percent benefit from the hidden scar technique,鈥� said Dr. King. 鈥淚t ultimately depends on the size of the location of your cancer and the shape of your breast.鈥�

Listen to the full interview

Schedule your mammogram

 

Screening mammograms generally take about 15 minutes. 

Download this free informational resource to learn more about this crucial diagnostic tool, how important it is to your overall health and how experts with 黑料吃瓜网鈥檚 largest breast care center and radiology groups can help.

Dr. Tom McDonald: Bunions

For those suffering from bunions, it鈥檚 not always just a cosmetic deformity. is foot and ankle surgeon at the Hartford HealthCare .

Bunions can not only be painful but can also interfere with our day-to-day lives. Dr. McDonald explains that there are minimally invasive surgical options can have very positive results when simple non-surgical solutions aren鈥檛 working.

Additional resources:

Dr. Tonya Ruggieri: Transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy or TMS

Millions of Americans struggle with depression, but many of them are finding magnetic pulses are helping to restore their mental equilibrium and happiness. Transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy, or TMS, uses an MRI strength magnetic pulse to stimulate the area of the brain thought to cause depression.

is a psychiatrist at Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 , one of the first medical facilities in the state to offer the therapy. She says TMS is for patients with major depressive orders that are not responding to medication trials. A typical course is six weeks long and up to two-thirds of patients respond very well to treatment and experience relief from their symptoms of depression.

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Type 2 Diabetes

, a at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital in Torrington, discusses the different paths taken with managing Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, as well as some of the alarming risks of not treating diabetes in the latest episode of Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 More Life podcast.

What鈥檚 the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?

鈥淚 like to use the analogy of a lock and a key,鈥� says Dr. Bogdanovics. 鈥淏oth types of diabetes are pretty much an inability to use glucose or sugar as fuel, so they don鈥檛 have any of the keys for that lock.

鈥滱nd while we typically see Type 2 diabetes later in life, these days, with our children being more overweight than in the past, we鈥檙e starting to see Type 2 diabetes in younger kids.鈥�

Esketamine Treatment

Sometimes medication and therapy cannot help with treatment-resistant depression. It might be time to try a different, more innovative approach.

Esketamine is a nasal spray approved in March 2019, by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use with an oral antidepressant for people with 鈥渢reatment-resistant depression鈥� or MDD that does not respond over time to different medications or treatment.

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Edoscopic Technology with Dr. Stefan Kachala

is the first person at trained to use the Monarch Platform. The Monarch Platform allows a physician to use a device, similar to a gaming controller, to navigate the flexible, robotic endoscope with an attached camera all the way to the edge of the lung. It combines traditional endoscopic views into the lung with computer-generated navigation based on 3D models of the patient鈥檚 lung anatomy and provides continuous bronchoscope vision throughout the entire procedure.

鈥淚 have more precision in my movements,鈥� said Dr. Kachala. 鈥淲e are able to diagnose early lung cancers using a safer and highly precise and accurate method.鈥�

For more information on the The Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute at The Hospital of Central 黑料吃瓜网, .

Questions?

• Call our 24-hour hotline at (860) 972-8100 or toll free (833) 621-0600.

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Elevating Health_IOL Medical Track Program

Young adults often have trouble navigating the transition to adult roles, especially if they are also dealing with significant medical conditions which can be difficult to manage.

The at Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 Institute of Living is an intensive outpatient program that helps support patients, with a focus on the intrinsic connection between mental and physical health.

is the program鈥檚 clinical coordinator. In this episode of Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 More Life podcast, he shares some compelling stories of the challenges faced by younger people with a dual diagnosis of behavioral and physical health conditions.

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Dr. Stephanie Alessi-LaRosa - Baseball Batters at Risk

With baseball pitchers at all levels hurling balls dangerously fast, more batters are being hit and injured than ever before.

Some coaches and fans might see that as peak performance, but it has led to more serious injuries for batters, catchers fielding scorching hurls and even fans in the stands when a pitch goes wild.

鈥淚 have seen patients from various levels of baseball participation who were hit by a pitch. These fast pitches most commonly affect catchers when they hit their mask or the batter tips one that hits the catcher. They often cause concussions based on the significant impact from this biomechanical force to the brain,鈥� said , associate director of the Hartford HealthCare Ayer Neuroscience Institute and program director of its new sports neurology fellowship.

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• For information about care for sports-related injuries like concussion, go to .

Dr. Ryan Dorin, Tallwood Urology & Kidney Institute: Prostate Cancer-Virtual Visits

Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 Tallwood Urology & Kidney Institute and Cancer Institute have collaborated to offer virtual visits that bring your urologist, medical oncologist and radiation oncologist together for a single, two-hour session that you can join from the privacy and convenience of home.

The Tallwood Urology & Kidney Institute is part of an extensive preferred provider network offering the highest standard of care at every level of treatment 鈥� beginning in the hospital and extending to their continuing care at home. With excellent and comprehensive communication throughout the network, every healthcare provider involved in your care uses the very best practices to care for you post-surgically.

Hartford HealthCare and the Tallwood Urology & Kindney Institute offer a wide array of FREE online classes that you can take at your convenience.

Dr. Alan Solinsky, Hartford Hospital鈥檚 Eye Surgery Center

If you don鈥檛 have a cataract, chances are you know someone who does. Cataracts 鈥� a clouding of the eye鈥檚 lens that results in decreased vision 鈥� are fairly common, with most people developing them with age. Fortunately, surgery to remove the cataract can usually return vision to normal.

is an ophthalmologist with . Founded in 1998, the Eye Surgery Center provides surgical care for cataracts, glaucoma, corneal disease and select retinal diseases. The Center performs more than 10,000 procedures a year, the vast majority of them cataracts.

• .

Elevating Health: MMA Dr. Narapareddy

is a neuropsychiatrist at the , part of the . He鈥檚 also a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Dr. Narapareddy is part of a collaborative research team who recently published a study on brain changes in . He helps us better understand the effect repeated blows to the head have on brain structure and function over time.

Listen to Dr. Narapareddy on Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 More Life podcast

MMA Guidance from a Black Belt Physician

Elevating Health: Robotic Surgery Dr. Wagner

is Chief of Urology and Director of Robotic Surgery at . This month marks the 20th anniversary of FDA approval for robotic prostatectomy and Dr. Wagner was one of the first in the nation to perform this groundbreaking procedure. He鈥檒l take us back to what that was like for him and for the patient 鈥� and he鈥檒l also describe how this technology has changed over the past two decades.

about Robotic Surgery at Hartford HealthCare's Tallwood Urology & Kidney Institute.

Listen to Dr. Wagner on Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 More Life podcast

A Robotic Evolution

Atherosclerosis, better known as clogged arteries, is the thickening of the arteries caused by a buildup of cholesterol or other fatty substances

Dr. Heather Swales is a cardiologist with the . She is also Co-Medical Director of Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 .

says the most common symptom is chest discomfort, but there can be more subtle symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, or indigestion.

Atherosclerosis can happen in all arteries. If you have atherosclerosis in one of your arteries, there is a good chance that you have atherosclerosis in other blood vessels throughout your body.

about the risks, diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerosis.

Increased COVID Risk for Parkinson鈥檚 Patients

A study by the Hartford HealthCare Chase Family shows the possible long term effect of COVID-19 on patients with Parkinson鈥檚 disease. is the Center鈥檚 Medical Director.

The results of the study indicate that patients with movement disorders, with or without dementia, are at increased risk of severe bouts of COVID-19, are more likely to require hospitalization and may have a higher risk of death. In fact, they suggested tailoring screening questions for this group to determine if symptoms of their movement disorder 鈥� diminished cognition, confusion and/or lethargy 鈥� had worsened.

Am I eligible to receive the COVID vaccine?

As of April 1, if you鈥檙e 16 and older, and live or work in 黑料吃瓜网, YES! There are no other qualifications. Live here? Work here? Get your shot here!

Hartford HealthCare patients age 16 and older who have not been vaccinated will be notified by text or email when vaccine appointments are available. These patients WILL NOT NEED to schedule using MyChartPLUS, but will be able to click a special link that will take them right to the page showing available appointments.

Learn more at .

COVID Recovery Center

Hartford HealthCare treated thousands of COVID patients. We know many continue to face lingering side effects, and we will help patients get the care they need to better recover from the illness.

黑料吃瓜网 was one of the hardest-hit states early in the pandemic. And as the number of recovered COVID-19 patients continues to grow, we see many patients looking for guidance and help as they continue to have symptoms such as fatigue, cough, shortness of breath, confusion, depression and memory issues, among others. These symptoms can be debilitating, often preventing people from returning back to their pre-COVID work and physical activity routines. Hartford HealthCare is here to help you live your healthiest life.

Cancer and the COVID Vaccine

Are you eligible for the COVID vaccine?

If you鈥檙e 45 and older, and live or work in 黑料吃瓜网, YES! There are no other qualifications.

If you are eligible for the vaccine - you can schedule and appointment, request a call or browse more resources and information at .

Cancer screenings and COVID

Hartford HealthCare screened 25 percent fewer women for breast cancer in 2020, another likely consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Experts with the National Cancer Institute predict there will be about 10,000 more deaths in the United States from breast and colorectal cancer alone in the next decade, directly stemming from pandemic-related delays in cancer screening and treatment.

鈥淐ancer screenings save lives by diagnosing the disease at its earliest stages when it is more easily and effectively treated,鈥� said Dr. Pallvi Popli, a medical oncologist with the Cancer Institute. 鈥淒elay in diagnosis will likely lead to cancer presentations at more advanced stages, from curable to becoming non-curable, which will result in poorer clinical outcomes and decreased life expectancy.鈥�

, Senior System Director of Infection Prevention at , talks about some positive trends we are seeing right now in the state of 黑料吃瓜网, which include lower COVID and flu numbers overall and fewer cases of cluster spreading. He also provides some encouraging data about vaccine efficacy against new COVID variants, and vaccine brand options we should all consider.

Listen to the full Hartford HealthCare podcast episode: ?

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"Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 Vaccine News & Resources"

The arrival of the first COVID-19 vaccine in 黑料吃瓜网 is a historic scientific breakthrough. It promises to help control the pandemic, minimize loss of life and restore a sense of normalcy to our daily lives.

• Learn more at:
• Listen to the full podcast episode:

"Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 COVID Recovery Center Is Organized Around YOU"

Hartford HealthCare treated thousands of COVID patients. We know many continue to face lingering side effects, and we will help patients get the care they need to better recover from the illness. is organized around YOU. If you are experiencing side effects such as lung, heart and behavioral health complications, we can help.

If you or a loved one needs help after recovering from COVID-19, call 860.827.3200 to schedule a virtual or in-person appointment.

"Alternatives to Opioids for Pain"

No pain pills post-surgery? It's possible with a revolutionary pain management program which utilizes nerve blocking to mitigate pain and reduce the need for opioids and other pain medications. In this episode, you'll meet the surgeon, Dr. Girard Girasole, the anesthesiologist, Dr. Theresa Bowling, and the patient, Vince, who recently underwent spine surgery using nerve blocking and got his life back - pain free.

Learn more about Spine Care at or listen to the full podcast episode .

"Better Than Normal Healthcare After COVID-19"

Hartford HealthCare President and CEO Jeff Flaks discusses lessons learned over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. He鈥檒l explain how new safety precautions and other initiatives are taking us beyond a new normal 鈥� to a 鈥渂etter than normal鈥� future in healthcare. . This episode was recorded in June, 2020.

Hartford HealthCare has treated thousands of COVID-19 patients, many of whom are still struggling with lingering side effects. If you or a loved one needs help after recovering from COVID-19, Hartford HealthCare鈥檚 COVID Recovery Center can help. Call 860.827.3200 to schedule a virtual or in person appointment.

• Learn more about