At Wellstar, we deliver personalized care to every patient, every time. That’s because we know you are more than a number, diagnosis or medical chart. Our dedicated experts support you through every stage of your wellness journey, providing care that is as unique as you.

That’s what PeopleCare is all about.

Because we know preventative care plays a major role in staying healthy, our primary care providers (PCPs) will build a PeopleCare plan just for you.

Your PeopleCare plan is your unique blueprint for better health. It doesn’t look like anyone else’s. PCPs create tailored treatment plans for each patient, based on your health concerns, family medical history and results from routine wellness exams.

Using these building blocks, PCPs can form an action plan and often get ahead of major health problems like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.

Four tests for better health

Wellness exams arm you with knowledge, so you can take control of your health.

No matter your age or medical history, it is recommended to get a medical check-up at least once a year. At your next doctor’s visit, make sure to “know your numbers” for:

1. Blood Pressure: A blood pressure test uses an arm cuff and pressure gauge to measure the pressure in your arteries as your heart pumps. This simple test can help diagnose hypertension (high blood pressure), hypotension (low blood pressure), heart disease and other conditions.
2. Blood Glucose Level: With just a drop of blood, your doctor can analyze the amount of sugar, or glucose, in your blood. Elevated levels can indicate the onset of diabetes and an increased risk for heart disease, heart attack, peripheral vascular disease or stroke.
3. Blood Cholesterol: A lipid panel is a simple blood test that shows your cholesterol levels, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL) often called “bad” cholesterol. Abnormal cholesterol levels can indicate clogged arteries which may lead to heart disease, heart attack, peripheral vascular disease or stroke.
4. Body Mass Index (BMI): The body mass index (BMI) estimates human body fat, using a person’s weight and height. People with high BMIs may be at an increased risk for health problems, including heart disease, hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes and more.

Wellness for everyone

For both men and women, basic wellness exams are an important step in staying healthy.

• Men: For men, colonoscopies and prostate exams are key to catching major diseases early. In addition to a digital rectal exam (DRE), a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is a quick way to screen for prostate cancer. Using a blood sample, specialists analyze the levels of PSA. Higher than normal readings may indicate the presence of prostate cancer.
• Women: For women, an annual well-woman exam can help keep your reproductive health in check. Typically, these screenings include a mammogram, pelvic exam and pap smear to spot potential breast or gynecologic cancers.

To schedule a primary care appointment, call (770) 956-STAR (7827) or click the “Book Now” button at the top of the page.

This article was originally published on Atlanta Business Chronicle on May 19, 2023.

Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States. The Georgia Department of Public Health reports the state had the 12th highest stroke death rate in the country. Georgia is also part of the “stroke belt,” an area of the southeastern United States with stroke death rates 30% higher than the rest of the nation.

As the leading — but preventable — cause of disability, stroke can happen at any age.

Stroke is a medical emergency, meaning the blood flow to an area of the brain is cut off, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. When this happens, brain cells start to die and abilities controlled by that area of the brain, such as speech or muscle control, are lost.

New drugs and new advanced treatments — such as the Tigertriever and Artemis — are helping reduce the death and disability impact of stroke, as well as comprehensive care programs and innovative hospital partnerships that expand stroke services into rural areas.

Physicians from Wellstar Health System and the CEO of a hospital in northeast Georgia joined Atlanta Business Chronicle to discuss stroke prevention and the future of stroke care.

Panelists & moderator

• Dr. Rishi Gupta, Endovascular Neurologist and Co-Medical Director of Neuro Care
• Dr. Ashis Tayal, Vascular Neurologist, Wellstar, Director of Neuro Care Network
• Van Loskoski, CEO, Stephens County Hospital
• David Rubinger, Market President & Publisher, Atlanta Business Chronicle; Moderator

What is stroke, screening and secondary prevention

David Rubinger: Dr. Tayal, set the stage for us about the definition of stroke.

Dr. Ashis Tayal: A stroke is a sudden injury of the brain due to blockage or rupture of an artery in the brain. Injuries to the brain and disability can vary significantly.

The most common, ischemic stroke injury, is due to obstruction of an artery that causes a loss of blood flow to a critical part of the brain which damages the brain rapidly.

The other type of stroke is hemorrhagic stroke, where there’s a rupture of an artery, bleeding into the brain, or the surfaces of the brain, and that is called an intracerebral hemorrhage or a subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Rubinger: I think Americans have become a little better educated as to who’s at risk for stroke, but why don’t you walk us through that. Who would be a potential stroke candidate?

Tayal: High blood pressure, or hypertension, is the most common risk factor for both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. High blood pressure is an extremely common but controllable condition. Almost 80% of people have hypertension as they’re getting older.

Other risk factors include diabetes associated with elevated blood sugars causing accelerated blockage of arteries and high cholesterol, which can be related to diet and genetics.

Atrial fibrillation, a common heart arrhythmia that occurs as people get older, also places people at risk for the most severe and disabling types of strokes. And plaque buildup in specific arteries of the neck and brain also leads to an increased risk of stroke.

Smoking is another risk factor. Many adults still smoke despite a lot of progress in stroke treatment, and smoking puts people at risk for different types of stroke.

Rubinger: What about atmospheric things like stress and other areas like that? How does that play into it? Or do those things manifest themselves because of the other underlying physical conditions?

Tayal: I don’t view stress, in and of itself, as a risk factor for stroke. I think that’s more related to people’s environments and their own personalities and how they respond to stress. I do think people who are under undue stress can have poor lifestyle habits, and those poor lifestyle habits, whether poor eating habits, smoking, weight gain or lack of exercise, can lead to conditions that increase the risk for stroke.

Rubinger: So how is the healthcare system doing treating strokes? Do you believe that what’s going on at the primary care provider’s office is helping or do we have a way to go?

Tayal: In the United States, preventive care has improved the treatment of risk factors that lead to stroke, but communities must maintain routine checkups as many of the risk factors are silent.

There are improved treatments for hypertension, more aggressive treatment for diabetes, and more efforts at smoking cessation. Just the fact that we treat hypertension better than we did a generation ago has had a great impact on lowering the prevalence of stroke.

That being said, some of the most exciting work on stroke has often been done in the area of acute treatment of stroke with clot-busting drugs, catheter-based treatments and medications to protect the brain during an acute injury.

Rubinger: Has pharmacology gotten better in terms of the hypertension medicines that are out there? Have anti-cholesterol medicines improved in recent years?

Tayal: In the past, healthcare providers were often undertreating people with hyperlipidemia — high cholesterol — and not fully appreciating the benefits of significant reductions in cholesterol levels. For example, we’ve learned that driving cholesterol down into much lower ranges under 55 mg/dL can benefit our patients who have vascular disease as a cause for their stroke.

In the fight against high cholesterol, newer medications that prevent the absorption of cholesterol are now available. Recent developments have led to the discovery of a new underutilized class of drugs called PCSK-9 inhibitors that are highly effective.

Wellstar is at the forefront of providing comprehensive head and neck cancer care, offering advanced treatments like transoral robotic surgery (TORS). Head and neck cancer specialist Dr. Kia Jones said the minimally invasive surgical approach is primarily used for tumors in the oropharynx—the area of the throat which includes the tonsil and the root of the tongue, also known as the tongue base.

“In this procedure, the surgeon accesses the cancer by passing tools through the mouth to the area of concern without external incisions,” said Dr. Jones, an expert in head and neck cancer surgery and microvascular reconstructive surgery.

She explained TORS is performed with the aid of the da Vinci robotic surgical system.

“The surgeon sits at a console, controlling the robot and instruments under high-definition camera visualization to remove tumors completely in areas that are inaccessible to the surgeon's hands,” she said.

The benefits of TORS

People who undergo TORS often experience shorter hospital stays, less postoperative pain and quicker return to normal activities compared to traditional surgical methods. After surgery, these patients can generally eat within a day and are discharged within one to three days, with no need for neck breathing or stomach feeding tubes.

Who may consider TORS

TORS is particularly beneficial for patients with early-stage oropharyngeal tumors, especially HPV-driven squamous cell cancers, which tend to occur in younger individuals. TORS offers an additional treatment option that may be a better fit for some patients than primary radiation, which has been the standard of care standard of care for oropharyngeal cancers as traditional surgical approaches with large open incisions fell out of favor.

Mental health is an essential part of whole-person care. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed or want to build resilience, small steps can make a big impact.

At Wellstar, we’re here to support your mental well-being and help you thrive. Our Behavioral Health team offers specialized care close to home, so you can feel your best both physically and mentally.

Here are five expert-backed strategies to help protect your mental health and strengthen your overall wellness.

Pay attention to early signs of stress.

Recognizing stress early is key to managing it effectively. When stress becomes chronic, it can affect both your mental and physical health. Learning to identify warning signs can help you take action before it escalates.

This is true across all areas of life, including the workplace, where job stress can quietly build over time and lead to more serious mental health concerns if left unaddressed.

“Paying attention to feelings of emotional exhaustion and general cynicism is important,” said Dr. Ryan Breshears, a board-certified clinical health psychologist and chief behavioral health officer at Wellstar. “Those are the foundational signs of occupational burnout, which certainly affects our well-being in the workplace, but when unchecked, can also spill over into our personal lives.”

That spillover can show up as irritability, mood changes, social withdrawal or insomnia. “Any of those could point to a problem that warrants intervention,” Dr. Breshears said.

Treat your whole health to support your mental well-being.

Mental and physical health are deeply interconnected—and we shouldn’t treat them in silos. At Wellstar, integrated care is a key part of our approach.

“I think the days of talking about problems that are physical problems versus mental problems are over,” said Dr. Breshears. “We have a body of research now and decades of science that show the interplay between the physical and the emotional.”

He explained that changes in thinking patterns can trigger physiological shifts in heart rate, stress hormone levels and more. Recognizing these mind-body connections can help you take a more proactive approach to your mental health.

“Wellstar is making a concerted effort to deconstruct old ideas about mental health and remove barriers to access,” Dr. Breshears added. “For example, we’re bringing behavioral health into primary care, cardiac care, pediatrics and women’s health. We want to strategically integrate behavioral health services wherever patients are receiving care.”

By treating the whole person and bringing behavioral health into every corner of healthcare, Wellstar is helping people take charge of their well-being in a way that’s compassionate, connected and convenient.

Prioritize recovery.

Stress is inevitable, and recovery is essential. Without it, your mind and body stay in overdrive, increasing your risk for burnout and long-term health issues. Taking time to recover is not a sign of weakness—it’s a strategy for resilience.

“Our bodies are designed to return to baseline, what we call homeostasis, after high-stress periods,” Dr. Breshears said. “Research suggests it's often the failure to prioritize recovery, not the stress itself, that actually contributes to the most lasting problems.”

Dr. Breshears shared a study comparing elite marathon runners to non-elite runners. The surprising finding? Elite runners were better at identifying stress early and adjusting their pace to recover, ultimately helping them perform better.

That same principle can apply to your mental health. If you notice signs of stress—like fatigue, irritability or changes in focus—take time to reset. That might mean getting more sleep, going for a walk, reaching out to a friend or seeking professional support.

Being intentional about recovery helps you maintain balance, build resilience and continue showing up for what matters most.

Nurture relationships and workplace well-being.

Meaningful relationships are a powerful buffer against stress. For many people, the workplace is a central source of community—and a critical place to nurture mental health.

“We’re social creatures,” said Dr. Breshears. "Having environments where people come in and feel good about their day-to-day interactions is really important.”

Dr. Breshears said it starts with employers being committed to understanding the inadvertent threats to their team’s well-being and removing barriers to care.

“First, I think we have to pay attention to the occupational drivers of stress on our employees and commit to resolving those issues,” he explained. “All of the human resources and benefits in the world will fail if we’re not also working upstream to eliminate the root causes. Secondly, we need to establish clear pathways so people can easily access support without all the stumbling blocks and delays they often run into.”

Employers who lead with empathy—and prioritize flexibility, compassion and connection alongside performance—help create cultures where people feel empowered to seek help when needed.

“We have to ensure that we have accessible resources,” Dr. Breshears said. “People bring their personal struggles into the workplace, and take their struggles in the workplace home. The lines have certainly blurred.”

Know when to seek help.

While self-care and support systems can go a long way, there are times when professional help is essential. Mental health conditions are common—and treatable. The sooner you seek help, the better.

This is especially true for men, who often face cultural and emotional barriers when it comes to seeking support.

“Men on average tend to delay help-seeking more than women,” Dr. Breshears said. “And this is especially true when men are suffering. Frankly, it's a mortality issue.” He noted that men are more likely to die by suicide and experience substance abuse disorders, which makes early intervention even more critical.

Dr. Breshears also emphasized the need to remove barriers and promote action: “We have to create environments in which people feel safe to talk about the struggles that they’re having.”

If you’re struggling, don’t wait. Explore Wellstar Behavioral Health services and find the support you need today.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.

Millennials across social media are finding that their generation has something in common: a mole in the same spot on their forearms. Dubbed the “millennial mole,” it is a small mole on the left forearm a couple of inches below the elbow. Millennials—people born between about 1981 and 1996—are taking to social media to show them off.

Dr. Kathryn Potter, a dermatologist at Wellstar MCG Health Medical Center, said she had not seen the social media trend but was intrigued.

“Of course, I had to look for myself and I have several on my left arm. I don’t know if that counts,” she said with a laugh.

If people are paying attention to moles, though, that’s a good thing. May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and while most moles are harmless, it’s good to notice them from time to time to make sure they aren’t changing, which could be an indicator of skin cancer.

But what exactly are they?

Moles are caused by melanocytes—cells that contain a dark pigment that protects your skin from UV radiation—that cluster together. But it can be confusing sometimes.

“Not all brown things are moles,” Potter said. “There can be freckles, sunspots or benign lesions called seborrheic keratosis.”

Whichever it is, if it is growing, changing shape or color, or developing irregular borders, it should be evaluated by a dermatologist.

“As far as skin cancer goes, we worry that a mole can become a melanoma—although most melanomas arise de novo, meaning they come up on their own and not through existing moles,” Potter said. “But for moles, we watch to see if they start to evolve or change.”

Potter also said most people who develop true moles will develop them before the age of 40. Moles that arise later in adulthood should be checked by a dermatologist.

You should also perform skin checks at home periodically. There are no hard and fast rules for when you should perform a skin check, but taking a few minutes to scan them is always a good idea.

Prevention is always best. Whenever you’re out in the sun, wear sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher and apply it about every two hours. Wear hats with broad rims and protective clothing and seek shade whenever possible.

There’s an undesirable side to Georgia’s natural beauty. Just ask any allergy sufferer.

In the state’s warm climate, pollen from grasses, trees and ragweed causes itching, sneezing and wheezing almost year-round.

Dr. Timothy Ryan, a board-certified ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist at Wellstar, has tips for preventing and managing symptoms. On 95.5 WSB’s The Weekly Check-Up with host Bruce Feinberg, DO, Dr. Ryan shared his allergy tricks, as well as information on allergens lurking in the home, how to tell if allergy symptoms are from colds or sinus infections, and explained “antibiotic resistance” and why it’s a concern.

Seasonal allergies in Georgia

Dr. Ryan treats children and adults for various head and throat conditions, and allergies are a chief complaint.

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America ranked the 100 most challenging places for allergy sufferers. In 2025, Augusta ranked 12th and metro Atlanta 40th.

“When you talk about allergies and how they lead to sinus issues, this area is one of the hotbeds in the entire country,” Dr. Ryan said.

Common-sense ways to prevent and treat seasonal allergy symptoms

Dr. Ryan recommends that if you have allergies, start preventive medicines two to four weeks before the season when pollen kicks up, using:

• Over-the-counter (OTC) nasal steroids, such as Flonase (fluticasone) and Nasonex (mometasone furoate)
• Oral antihistamines, such as Claritin (loratadine), Zyrtec (cetirizine HCl) and Allegra (fexofenadine)

“Being consistent with these things is most important,” Dr. Ryan said. “You need to do them every day for the maximum benefit.”

Even then, allergy symptoms can break through. In those cases, Dr. Ryan recommends adding:

• Antihistamine eyedrops such as Pataday
• Saline sprays and rinses to wash irritants from your nose and sinuses

Aside from medications, Dr. Ryan described extra steps allergy sufferers can take to reduce their discomfort:

• Check pollen counts daily and limit your time outside when they are high.
• Use HEPA air filters in every room inside your home.
• Service heating and air-conditioning units and change out filters regularly.
• Take off your shoes and possibly change clothing when coming indoors from outside.
• Shower before bedtime to prevent pollen from getting into your bed.

Indoor allergens also stir up symptoms

Another culprit causing allergy symptoms is dust mites. These microscopic, insect-like pests feed on flakes of dead skin or dander shed by humans or pets. A caller on The Weekly Check-Up described having itchy ears at night, which Dr. Ryan said could be caused by an allergy to dust mites.

“We call these year-long or perennial allergies,” he said. “And patients need year-round treatment. Changing your pillows, wrapping your mattress, washing bedding frequently and putting HEPA filters in the room can help.”

Even Dr. Ryan has a routine to prevent discomfort from particles or pollutants that might have crept into his nose. “Before bed, I spray my nose with normal saline to get a moisturizing coating. You can also flush out your nose using a neti pot or other irrigation system,” he said.

“As soon as you lie flat (in bed), all the blood flows to your head, and you’ll get a little more swelling in your nose. We call that nasal cycling. If you’ve already picked up all those irritants over the day, you’re just putting gasoline on a fire.”

Is it allergies, a virus or a bacterial infection?

In peak allergy season, Dr. Ryan’s schedule is full of patients with nasal congestion, runny noses and facial pain and pressure. But not all are suffering from allergies. Some may have a cold or another virus. In rarer cases, they may have a bacterial sinus infection.

“The thing that separates viral infections from allergies is usually fevers and a feeling of malaise,” he said. “Typically, a patient with a bacterial sinus infection has those symptoms plus a heavy yellow or brown nasal drainage.”

Dr. Ryan noted that even in the last case, a provider won’t jump quickly to prescribe antibiotics. “Those symptoms need to last for seven straight days, or you need to get worse over those five to seven days before we start to worry that you need an antibiotic.”

OTC medicines for congestion, cough and pain usually relieve symptoms of viral and bacterial infections. Patients should also drink plenty of fluids and use a saline spray to prevent infection from the buildup of fluids caused by a cold or allergies.

“We have to be very smart about when we give antibiotics,” Dr. Ryan said. Healthcare experts have concerns about the mounting evidence that overuse of antibiotics is breeding “antibiotic resistance.” Bacteria can adapt and evolve, becoming immune to antibiotics. That can become life-threatening if someone has an infection that antibiotics can’t treat.

Find a Wellstar ENT specialist

Allergies are just one of many ear, nose and throat conditions that Dr. Ryan diagnoses and treats. Others include:

• Acid reflux
• Cancers of the head and neck
• Hearing loss
• Sleep apnea

Learn about our ENT services and find a Wellstar doctor near you.

Northwest Georgia Oncology Centers in Cartersville
June 5, 2025
10 AM to 3 PM
100 Market Place Blvd., Cartersville
Contact Mary Ellen Smither at [email protected] or (678) 858-1146.

Wellstar Cobb Medical Center
May 30, 2025
12 to 2 PM     
4040 Hospital West Drive, Austell
Behind the building in the garden and parking lot area
Contact Ashley Dapremont at [email protected] or (470) 732-4523.

Wellstar Douglas Medical Center
June 7, 2025
11 AM to 2 PM
8954 Hospital Drive, Douglasville
Surgical services lobby
Contact Diane Harris at [email protected] or (470) 644-5411.

Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center
June 7, 2025
11 AM to 2 PM
320 Kennestone Hospital Blvd., Marietta
First floor
Required RSVP, contact Nancy Page at [email protected] or (470) 793-7470.

Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center
June 1, 2025
2 to 4 PM
3000 Hospital Blvd., Roswell
Main lobby in hospital
Contact Sarah Bentley at [email protected] or (770) 751-2556.

Wellstar Paulding Medical Center
June 1, 2025
144 Bill Carruth Parkway, Hiram
Second floor auditorium
Contact Kellie Mitchell at [email protected] or (470) 644-8106.

Wellstar Spalding Medical Center
May 28, 2025
12 to 2 PM
Drive-thru event
608 South 8th St., Griffin
Women’s Center
Contact Sherry Connell at [email protected] or (470) 935-5526.

Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center
June 6, 2025
10 AM to 12 PM
111 Medical Drive, LaGrange
Enoch Callaway Cancer Center
Contact Stephanie Hand at [email protected].

Learn more about cancer care at Wellstar.

Dramatic weight loss stories from people taking new obesity and diabetes drugs have many patients asking their healthcare providers, “Could these be right for me?”

Dr. Alicia Shelly, an internal and obesity medicine physician at Wellstar, joined host Bruce Feinberg, DO, on 95.5 WSB’s The Weekly Check-Up to talk about it all, including:

• What to expect from obesity treatment today
• Medication options and costs
• How lifestyle coaching fits into treatment
• When bariatric surgery may be appropriate

“Obesity is a chronic disease,” said Dr. Shelly. “There are multiple reasons why people gain weight and why it's harder for them to lose weight. But know that you don’t have to do it alone.”

What to expect at your obesity appointment

Your first visit to Wellstar Center for Best Health will typically last 30 to 45 minutes, and you’ll be asked about your:

• Medical history
• Past experiences trying to lose weight
• Lifestyle, including exercise, sleep and eating habits
• Stress and mental health

“If you’re struggling with obesity, this is probably not your first time trying to lose weight,” said Dr. Shelly. “We want to understand your journey with weight loss.”

The physical exam includes measuring a body’s composition of fat, muscle and water. She explained that a healthcare professional wants to know where you carry fat. Patients with a high proportion of stomach fat or visceral fat have a greater risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure and other conditions.

Obesity medications take center stage

If you’re like many who come to Wellstar, you’ve heard about injectable medications like Wegovy and others. Similar medicines that can be taken by mouth are in clinical trials.

The drugs are called GLP-1s, which is short for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists. They act like a natural hormone that regulates appetite, slows stomach emptying and decreases insulin levels. As a result, many patients feel full longer, eat less and have better blood sugar control.

“The medications help turn off cravings and your appetite,” Dr. Shelly said. Patients also report less mental “noise” about food, such as musing after breakfast, “What am I going to eat for lunch?"

Without insurance coverage, GLP-1s can cost around $1,000 a month. If you have insurance that covers some or all of the drugs’ costs, you may need your insurance plan’s approval in advance. Wellstar nurse navigators can help you with this process.

If you can’t afford newer medications, there are additional options among older and less costly medications approved for weight loss.

Dr. Shelly noted that if cost and insurance weren’t barriers, she’d probably recommend medication for 75% of her patients. “Many people have already done a lot of diets and exercises in the past to lose weight, but the weight keeps coming back. And that’s because obesity is a chronic disease.”

Nutrition, exercise and behavioral healthcare are all part of obesity treatment

Healthy weight loss takes a combination of approaches, not just prescriptions, according to Dr. Shelly. If you are treated for obesity at Wellstar you’ll likely visit several clinicians, including:

• A registered dietitian for personalized nutrition and meal planning
• An exercise physiologist who develops routines that meet your physical condition
• A psychologist who can help you with motivation, handling cravings and other behavioral factors in weight loss

A dietitian can help you understand the effects of food choices. Dr. Shelly referenced studies showing that eating high amounts of processed food, even with low calories, can hinder weight loss. She recommends cooking at home with fresh food and avoiding vending machines and fast food.

Lack of sleep is another overlooked issue in weight management. “Studies show that when you're sleeping under five hours, your hunger hormone increases, then your weight also increases,” she said. A behavioral health specialist can help you work on improving your sleep health if needed.

Have weight loss drugs eclipsed bariatric surgery?

For years, bariatric surgery on the stomach or intestines has been used to induce weight loss.

Bariatric surgery patients can lose an average of 30 to 35% of their body weight. This is higher than the average loss of patients taking the latest medications. Insurance plans often cover surgery because of the costly and serious medical complications of obesity.

Dr. Shelly stressed that care teams work with you to create treatment plans that fit your conditions, medical histories and personal situations. Then, your care team sticks by you throughout treatment.

She also encourages you to visit your doctors and learn more about new ways to treat obesity. “At Wellstar Centers of Best Health, we’re ready and able to help you,” she said.

To hear more from Dr. Shelly, you can listen to her podcast, “Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight Loss.”

Faith communities are a vital presence in the neighborhoods we serve. They bring people together for worship, teaching and spiritual enrichment. They serve as a gathering place for study and prayer. And they care for people’s physical, emotional and spiritual needs in myriad ways.

Wellstar Center for Health Equity partners with local faith communities to support their health and wellness programs. This year the center made grants to five congregations that demonstrate a passion for mental wellness and a proven track record of community outreach. The grants of up to $4,000 will help fund new and existing programs that expand access to behavioral health resources. Recipients include:

• Greater Young Zion Baptist Church in Augusta—The church will offer online and in-person workshops and a mental health awareness community event.
• Impact Church in East Point—Impact Church plans to expand its current behavioral health offerings to include individual counseling and mental health workshops for volunteers and staff.
• Renovation Church Atlanta—This church will offer pastoral and secular support groups and an online mental health training seminar.
• Seekers of His Face International Prayer Center in Augusta—This congregation plans to host community outreach and initiatives, including an online panel promoting suicide prevention awareness.
• The Gathering in Griffin—This congregation will host quarterly mental health workshops, pastoral counseling and education sessions.

Our commitment to Soul Support

The grants build on the Soul Support program, which provides congregations with behavioral health education and resources including the Question, Persuade, Refer suicide prevention workshop. This workshop trains faith leaders and members to recognize signs of suicide and navigate mental health emergencies. Soul Support has trained more than 500 individuals to respond to mental health concerns.

“We are excited to partner with faith communities that have a heart for people who are in a mental health crisis,” said Julie Wallace, community impact specialist at Wellstar Center for Health Equity. “Research shows that many people struggling with their mental health reach out to their faith leaders for guidance and support. The grants will improve access to mental healthcare and help these churches serve the community more effectively and confidently. They’ll also support programs that raise awareness about mental illness. This will, in turn, reduce the stigma that may prevent people from seeking help.”

Soul Support is part of the Wellstar Congregational Health Network, which assists faith organizations that want to develop a volunteer health program. Such programs focus on lifestyle changes, personal habits, attitudes, faith and well-being.

Learn more about the Center for Health Equity and Congregational Health Network and how we’re engaging and supporting our communities.

In a collaborative effort to combat hypertension, Wellstar, the Atlanta Regional Collaborative for Health Improvement (ARCHI) and the Atlanta Hypertension Initiative hosted an interactive community event at Friendship Baptist Church in Atlanta’s Vine City neighborhood.

The morning-long session raised awareness about the prevalence of high blood pressure, particularly within minority communities, and offered practical steps to reduce hypertension and improve overall health. More than 100 community members attended the discussion, underscoring the importance of the topic.

For the first time, Wellstar Douglas Medical Center has earned the prestigious Georgia Oglethorpe Award, the highest level of recognition for organizational performance excellence in the state.

Each year, the Sterling Council presents the award to organizations and businesses that demonstrate performance excellence in their management and operations. Wellstar Douglas is the first business in Douglas County to receive the award.

Founded in 1974, the hospital recently celebrated its 50th year in the community. The non-profit 108-bed community hospital in Douglasville delivers an extensive array of inpatient and outpatient services, including interventional cardiology, maternity care with a level II neonatal intensive care unit, hyperbaric wound care, rehabilitation therapy and robotic surgery, including total joint orthopedics.

Wellstar Douglas President Heath King said hospital leaders use tiered safety huddles, visual management boards, department-based huddles and "A3 Thinking," a problem-solving and decision-making methodology that helps teams identify the root causes of problems and develop solutions that promote a high-reliability organization.

"These leadership methods have created a strong system of two-way communication that links our hospital's senior-most leaders with frontline team members," King said. "We're thrilled that the Sterling Council recognizes our approach for achieving industry-leading financial, quality, marketplace, consumer engagement and workforce results."

Starting your visit without a Wellstar MyChart account

1. On our Virtual Urgent Care page, select Schedule for yourself or Schedule for someone else.

2. Select your location, then Virtual Urgent Care Video Visit.

3. Follow the prompts to complete scheduling your visit.

Your Virtual Urgent Care clinician will provide you with the same personalized, tailored treatments you’ve come to expect from us. That may include treatment recommendations and prescriptions to manage an immediate health issue, like an antibiotic or cough medicine.

After your Virtual Urgent Care visit, all Wellstar clinicians, including your primary care provider or specialist, can see a record of your appointment. You will also be able to access it through MyChart. Keeping all of your trusted care team members in the know is just one way we provide you with seamless care.

Get started at wellstar.org/virtualcare.

At Wellstar, our comprehensive wound care and hyperbaric services are designed to help you heal. We combine advanced technology and a compassionate approach to support your recovery every step of the way.

Our team of experts specializes in managing severe and chronic wounds. Chronic wounds are caused when the body’s healing process is delayed, often as a result of common health problems such as diabetes or poor circulation. We work closely with patients and families to create personalized treatment plans using the most effective therapies.

From diabetic foot ulcers to non-healing surgical incisions, you can count on Wellstar to treat every wound with expertise and care.

Lifesaving wound care close to home

Chronic wounds affect millions of people nationwide. With convenient wound care and hyperbaric centers located throughout Georgia, Wellstar ensures world-class care is never far from home. We offer wound care services at multiple facilities including Wellstar Cobb Medical Center, Wellstar Douglas Medical Center, Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center, Wellstar Spalding Medical Center, and also at clinics in LaGrange and Marietta.

Patients come to us with a range of chronic wounds, including:

• Chronic bone infections (osteomyelitis)
• Circulatory problems and vascular ulcers
• Compromised skin grafts/flaps
• Crush injuries
• Diabetic foot ulcers
• Injuries from late effects of radiation
• Non-healing surgical incisions
• Pressure ulcers
• Venous stasis ulcers

Unlike normal wounds, chronic or traumatic wounds show no significant signs of healing over a period of several weeks. When wounds are not treated successfully, they can lead to illness, limb loss or life-threatening infection.

“Many wounds require specialized care that general practitioners or urgent care clinics simply cannot provide,” said Dr. Ricardo Duran, medical director of wound care and hyperbaric medicine at Wellstar North Fulton. “Without expert attention, what begins as a small ulcer can spiral into a serious condition requiring hospital admissions—or worse, amputation.”

By partnering with a Wellstar wound specialist, you can take the first step toward healing.

“We’re dedicated to preventing these outcomes by addressing wounds early, thoroughly and with expertise,” Dr. Duran said. “Our goal is to restore not only health, but also hope and quality of life.”

Innovative therapies and techniques

At Wellstar, we use the latest therapies and cutting-edge techniques to promote healing and prevent complications. Our approach is multidisciplinary, meaning that board-certified physicians, nurses and specialists collaborate to design a care plan that works for you.

Your personalized treatment plan may include:

• Advanced wound dressings
• Antibiotic therapy
• Cellular and tissue-based products
• Compression therapy
• Growth factor therapy
• Negative pressure wound therapy
• Ostomy care and support
• Total contact casting
• Wound debridement

Advanced healing with hyperbaric oxygen therapy

Your Wellstar physician may recommend hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. This state-of-the-art treatment uses pressurized oxygen to enhance the body’s natural healing process. By delivering high levels of oxygen to the tissues, HBOT accelerates recovery, reduces inflammation and combats infection.

“HBOT has been especially effective for patients with diabetic foot ulcers, chronic infections and radiation injuries,” Dr. Duran explained. “Studies show that HBOT can improve healing rates by over 70% and reduce amputation risk by 50%, helping patients recover faster and get back to their lives.”

HBOT is provided in a series of treatments, each lasting approximately 90 minutes. A typical treatment plan is five sessions per week for four to six weeks. HBOT is available at Wellstar Cobb Medical Center, Wellstar Douglas Medical Center, Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center, Wellstar Spalding Medical Center, and specialized centers including Wellstar Hyperbaric Wound Clinic in LaGrange and HyOx Medical Treatment Center in Marietta.

Commitment to high-quality care

Our wound and hyperbaric services reflect Wellstar’s commitment to innovative care. Every member of our team is dedicated to delivering the highest standard of care in a respectful and understanding manner.

If you or a loved one are facing the challenges of a difficult wound or slow healing, we invite you to learn more about our services. Our team is ready to help you navigate your recovery with confidence and clarity.

“Chronic wounds don’t have to control your life,” said Dr. Duran. “With the right care, healing is possible.”

Learn more about Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine at Wellstar and find a specialist near you.

No two hearts are alike, as Wellstar Interventional Cardiologist Dr. Frank Corrigan told listeners on 95.5 WSB’s The Weekly Check-up with Bruce Feinberg, DO.

During the show, Drs. Corrigan and Feinberg answered questions about the latest heart diagnostics and treatments, and described how personalized heart health has added benefits for patients.

From checkups with your primary care physician to targeted cardiac testing conducted by cardiac specialists, heart risk assessments are becoming more advanced. Dr. Corrigan discussed how tests like CT angiography and calcium scores provide personalized views of a patient’s risk factors for heart disease, the advances in minimally invasive procedures to diagnose and treat heart conditions, and the important role of cardiac rehabilitation.

“What fascinates me is how we can understand who’s at risk on a personal level,” said Dr. Corrigan. “We treat those risk factors to try to prevent many of the things that can happen from cardiovascular disease.”

Personalized cardiac risk assessment and diagnosis

Many people are familiar with two basic heart assessments: the electrocardiogram, also called an EKG and ECG, and a stress test.

• An EKG is a painless test that records the heart’s electrical activity.
• A stress test monitors a patient’s blood pressure, breathing and heart rate while the patient walks on a treadmill or rides a stationary bike.

Dr. Corrigan emphasized that while beneficial, these tests are only a few of the cardiac diagnostic and imaging tools available today.

“Stress testing became a standard of practice in the 1950s and 1960s. And for a while cardiologists recommended getting a stress test periodically,” Dr. Corrigan said. But stress tests have limitations.

“For the person who comes to our office for the first time with new symptoms like shortness of breath or chest discomfort, an imaging test called a coronary CT angiogram is often a more effective diagnostic tool than a stress test,” he said. “Many times, patients will have the beginnings of heart disease and narrowing in their heart arteries that we can see on CT scans. If we treat those patients with proactive therapies before they have a heart attack, we can often prevent it.”

Another valuable diagnostic tool is calcium CT scoring. This test measures plaque buildup in the heart’s arteries. The results help determine if patients need medication or further testing to evaluate their heart disease or heart attack risk.

Heart care with minimally invasive treatments

Dr. Corrigan explained that heart care is now subspecialized. Some cardiologists specialize in heart failure, while others focus on heart rhythm management—they’re electrophysiologists, or the “electricians” of cardiology. His specialty, interventional cardiology, or “the plumbers,” cares for people with blockages in their arteries.

In the past, most patients didn’t know they had a heart issue until they had an emergency cardiac event. Now, we have improved risk assessments, medical and family history evaluations and minimally invasive procedures. Physicians can diagnose and treat heart conditions before they advance.

Cardiac catheterization is one procedure that is part of more personalized heart care. A thin tube is inserted into an artery in the wrist or groin. Then, it is threaded through the blood vessel until it reaches the heart. A contrast dye makes blood vessels visible to an X-ray machine, which takes images at several angles. This allows cardiologists to pinpoint blockages.

If needed, an interventional cardiologist can open clogged arteries and insert stents. This keeps the arteries open and blood flowing.

“If someone arrives at the hospital with a heart attack, we most often treat them with a small needle puncture through their wrist,” Dr. Corrigan said. “Most patients are up walking around within hours and many go home the next day.”

For atrial fibrillation, or AFib, treatment, Dr. Corrigan noted, cardiologists now offer minimally invasive ablation procedures, in addition to medication and lifestyle changes to normalize heart rhythms.

“AFib ablations have revolutionized care for many patients. An ablation may offer better symptom control than medication alone,” Dr. Corrigan said. “However, results can vary. There are patients who have AFib ablations that do have recurrent atrial fibrillation.”

Dr. Corrigan cautions about taking supplements advertised to help with cardiac conditions, including AFib. “I’m not aware of any specific evidence of a supplement directly helping an abnormal heart rhythm,” he said. “A heart-healthy diet remains the best option for cardiac health.”

Cardiac rehab educates and empowers patients

As heart diagnostics and treatments become more personalized to patients’ genetics, medical histories and lifestyles, so does the preventive care provided to cardiac patients.

“The heart is a muscle and retraining it after a medical incident is incredibly important,” Dr. Corrigan said.

Cardiac rehab at Wellstar includes:

• Exercise programs tailored to patients’ needs and capacities to improve cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength
• Lifestyle education to help patients overcome unhealthy habits such as smoking and overeating and adopt proper nutrition and exercise routines
• Emotional support to help patients and their families cope with the stress of illness

Wellstar offers cardiac rehab with specially trained physical therapists and physiologists across our network of care. “The goal is to get people’s hearts and heart conditioning back to a really high level. It’s a fantastic program,” Dr. Corrigan said.

Know your heart health risks

Advances in personalized diagnostics and minimally invasive treatments are changing the future of heart care, improving outcomes and enhancing patients’ lives. Wellstar’s Know Your Heart screening program offers every patient an individualized health report. It also provides actionable recommendations for reducing risk factors and improving and sustaining heart health.

Take control of your heart health today. Learn more about heart care at Wellstar.

As a board-certified gastroenterologist, I am often tasked with the responsibility of breaking bad news in the form of relaying a newfound colorectal (colon) cancer diagnosis. I don’t take this obligation lightly as I know my next discussion with the patient will greatly impact their life.

Colon cancer is a malignant tumor originating from the colon or rectum. Often there are no signs, but colon cancer can present with rectal bleeding, weight loss, abdominal pain, change in bowel patterns and loss of appetite. Unlike many other cancers, however, most colon cancers can be diagnosed early and even prevented with the appropriate screening.

The Problem: Colon Cancer is Common and Rising

Colon cancer is very common. It is the third most common cancer worldwide and ranks second in cancer-related death. The number of cases increases as we get older. Unfortunately, we are also seeing a rise in numbers among younger adults under the age of 50.

This increase cannot be explained through hereditary factors as most early onset colon cancers are sporadic, meaning not linked to passed-down genetics. To add insult to injury, we are seeing an overall trend of rising colon cancer mortality among this younger group.

The Answer: Screening

Colon cancer screening has shown to improve survival from colon cancer by catching it early. Some screening tools can even prevent colon cancer by removing the precursor to cancer. There are multiple screening tests available, including stool-based tests that look for blood or abnormal DNA, and specialized imaging tests that allow doctors to visualize your colon from the outside.

One of the highest recommended screening tools is a colonoscopy. Colonoscopy involves direct examination of the colon with biopsy or removal of abnormal colon tissue. Unlike the other screening tests, a colonoscopy can prevent colon cancer with removal of polyps. Polyps are benign tissue but can develop into cancer over time if left untreated. Studies have shown that colonoscopy and removal of polyps significantly reduce the long-term incidence of colon cancer.

I encourage you to speak with your primary care provider about colon cancer screening. Taking this simple step could save your life.

Learn more about colon cancer prevention at Wellstar by visiting wellstar.org/cleancolons. To make an appointment with Dr. Renelus, call (470) 610-0145.

Pregnancy is a time of excitement and change. But it also puts added strain on the heart. In fact, cardiovascular conditions are one of the leading causes of maternal complications worldwide. Some women can develop heart conditions during pregnancy that can lead to serious complications if not recognized early. Knowing the risks and being proactive about your heart health can help prevent a life-threatening problem.

Here’s what every expectant mom should know about heart health during pregnancy.

1. High blood pressure can be silent—and dangerous.

Some women develop high blood pressure during pregnancy, even if they’ve never had it before. High blood pressure can lead to preeclampsia. It’s a condition that can cause organ damage and, in severe cases, seizures. When high blood pressure isn’t treated, it can increase the risk of stroke or heart failure. Checking your blood pressure regularly can help catch problems early.

What to do about high blood pressure

If you have a history of high blood pressure, heart disease or a family history of cardiovascular issues, tell your care team. Preconception counseling is essential if you have a known heart condition. Your physician may recommend that you monitor your blood pressure at home and report any sudden swelling, headaches or vision changes immediately.

2. Heart failure can happen—even in healthy moms.

A rare but serious condition called peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) weakens the heart, usually in the last month of pregnancy or the months following delivery. If you have shortness of breath, swelling or often feel extremely tired, don’t ignore those signs.

What to do if you have shortness of breath or a racing heart

Talk to your provider immediately if everyday activities leave you exhausted or struggling to breathe. Other concerning symptoms include persistent coughing, swelling in your legs or feet and dizziness. Don’t ignore symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, severe fatigue or a racing heartbeat. These could signal a serious heart problem—seek help right away.

3. Pre-existing heart conditions and hypertensive disorders require extra care.

If you’ve ever had heart disease, a heart defect or high blood pressure—including hypertension or hypertensive disorders—pregnancy can increase your risks. Even women without symptoms before pregnancy may need extra monitoring.

What to do if you have a pre-existing heart condition

Talk with your provider early about a care plan. High-risk pregnancies may require specialist support, like a maternal-fetal medicine physician or cardiologist. If you’ve been diagnosed with a heart condition before pregnancy, ask your provider how it may affect labor and delivery. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. You know your body best, and your concerns deserve attention.

4. Blood clots are more common during pregnancy.

Pregnancy increases the risk of thromboembolism, a serious condition where blood clots can travel to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism. The risk is even higher for women with a history of clotting disorders, obesity or limited mobility.

What to do to prevent blood clots

To reduce your risk of blood clots, stay active, stay hydrated and watch for warning signs like leg swelling, redness or pain. If you notice these, call your provider right away. If you’re on bed rest, ask your provider about ways to improve circulation. Learn the signs of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.

5. A racing heartbeat may be abnormal.

You can expect some changes in heart rhythm during pregnancy, but arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) can be a sign of something more serious. Hormone changes, increased blood volume and underlying conditions like thyroid disorders can all contribute to an irregular heartbeat.

What to do about a racing heart

If your heart races often, feels like it’s skipping beats or you feel dizzy or faint, let your provider know immediately. Keep track of when these symptoms happen and whether they occur at specific times, such as during physical activities or when your stress levels are high.

6. Postpartum recovery still puts stress on the heart.

The risk of heart complications doesn’t end at delivery. Many serious conditions, including heart failure or high blood pressure, can develop in the weeks or months after childbirth. Postpartum heart issues can be life-threatening if you don’t address them.

What to do during the postpartum period

Keep all postpartum checkups, even if you feel fine. Watch for new symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath or extreme fatigue. If you had high blood pressure during pregnancy, continue monitoring it after delivery. Be aware that cardiovascular complications can develop up to a year postpartum, and follow-up care is so important for your long-term health.

7. Your hospital choice matters

For women at high risk, delivering in a hospital with access to specialized prenatal tests, genetic testing like amniocentesis, fetal evaluations and emergency cardiac care can make all the difference. Not all hospitals have the same level of maternal heart care, so it’s important to plan ahead. Choose a hospital that is equipped to handle pregnancy-related cardiac emergencies.

Wellstar provides specialized care for mothers and babies close to home, including:

• Wellstar Acworth Health Park: Perinatal cardiology
• Wellstar Avalon Health Park: Perinatal cardiology
• Wellstar Cherokee Health Park: Perinatal cardiology
• Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia: Level IV NICU
• Wellstar Cobb Medical Center: Emergency cardiac care, level III NICU, maternal-fetal medicine, medical genetics, perinatal cardiology
• Wellstar Douglas Medical Center: Emergency cardiac care, maternal-fetal medicine
• Wellstar East Cobb Health Park: Perinatal cardiology
• Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center: Emergency cardiac care, Level III NICU, maternal-fetal medicine, medical genetics, perinatal cardiology
• Wellstar MCG Health Medical Center: Cardio-obstetrics, emergency cardiac care, maternal-fetal medicine, medical genetics
• Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center: Emergency cardiac care, medical genetics
• Wellstar Paulding Medical Center: Emergency cardiac care, medical genetics, perinatal cardiology
• Wellstar Spalding Medical Center: Maternal-fetal medicine
• Wellstar Vinings Health Park: Perinatal cardiology
• Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center: Emergency cardiac care

What to do about your hospital choice

If you are high-risk, consider hospitals with advanced cardiac care and those that have expertise in pregnancy-related heart conditions. Talk to your care team well in advance about your birth plan, especially if you have a heart condition. If possible, tour the hospital beforehand and ask about its capabilities in managing pregnancy-related heart complications.

8. Mental health and stress impact heart health.

Anxiety and stress can affect your heart. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to someone. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Depression, anxiety and even post-traumatic stress disorder are common in pregnancy and postpartum, and they can impact heart health.

What to do to keep your mental health in check

Access mental health resources and practice stress management techniques to help you manage your mental health. Simple practices like deep breathing, mindfulness and connecting with loved ones can help lower stress levels. Remember, you are empowered to take control of your health—talk with your provider or a support person and get the help you need.

Take Action for a Healthier Pregnancy.

Eat well, stay active and avoid smoking or alcohol. These efforts can protect your heart and your baby’s health. Small, consistent changes—like reducing salt intake or walking daily—can make a difference.

Regular prenatal visits are just as important. Remember, knowledge is power. Stay informed, speak up when something feels off and choose a hospital that meets your needs. These simple steps can help you take control of your heart health and reduce the risk for you and your baby.

Find an OB/GYN or perinatal cardiologist and learn about labor and delivery at Wellstar.

Wellstar Cobb Medical Center is no stranger to using robotics in surgery yet a new system has catapulted its robotic capabilities to the next level.

Wellstar Cobb is the first hospital in the health system to offer a first-of-its-kind surgical technology through the new Da Vinci 5 robot (DV5), with surgeons Dr. Julie Chang and Dr. Stephen Odom performing the hospital’s inaugural procedures using the DV5 for gynecologic and general surgery.

The DV5 robot allows physicians to sense how much push-or-pull force they apply during surgeries, giving them greater control and data as they delicately maneuver the tips of the instrument. Wellstar Cobb is among the first hospitals in the metro Atlanta area with this innovative technology.

“The ability to sense hard and soft tissue during robotic surgeries is a game changer,” said Dr. Chang, a specialist in obstetrics and gynecology and the first surgeon to use the new DV5 robot at Wellstar Cobb. “Surgeries will be even more precise and efficient with this tool, which will further reduce post-operative pain and make recovery time faster.”

Surgeons can apply up to 43% less force on tissue by relying on the robot’s Force Feedback technology, according to preclinical data from Intuitive, the maker of the DV5 system. When using DV5, surgeons also benefit from improved dexterity and ergonomics, better 3D images and a wider range of motion compared to prior models.

This increase in precision and flexibility will help patients experience less blood loss and scarring, have lower risks of complications and spend less time in the hospital.

“We are committed to providing the highest standard of care—not only by building strong teams, but also by embracing cutting-edge technology,” said Eliese Bernard, president of Wellstar Cobb. “We are thrilled to offer this latest advancement to our patients and be among the first hospitals in the state to do so.”

The new system will primarily benefit general surgery, urology and gynecology patients. DV5 will assist with procedures ranging from repairing a hernia to more complex surgeries.

Wellstar Cobb has performed over 10,000 robotic surgeries, with 1,500 of those procedures occurring last year alone. With the help of various Da Vinci models, the hospital’s 30 robotic surgeons apply their expertise to general surgery, gynecology, urology, colorectal and bariatrics.

Their skill with robotic technology offers patients better outcomes, including during laparoscopies—during which surgeons insert a camera through a small incision, limiting the procedure's invasiveness. For instance, only 0.2% of Dr. Chang’s laparoscopies for benign hysterectomies have escalated to open surgeries, which require larger incisions and longer recovery times. By committing to high surgical standards, Wellstar Cobb physicians minimize patient complications and readmissions.

“Wellstar Cobb continues to lead the way in robotic surgeries,” said Dr. Jody Hughes, chief medical officer at Wellstar Cobb. “Not only do we offer best-in-class services through technology like the DV5, but we also support other communities by helping train the next generation of elite robotic surgeons.”

Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center has also acquired its own Da Vinci 5 Robot.

Learn more about robotic surgery at Wellstar.

Maintaining healthy joints is essential for mobility and quality of life. When joint pain arises, whether as the result of an acute injury or natural aging, the discomfort can interfere with daily activities and keep you from living your fullest life.

The good news is that it’s possible to protect your joints with the right preventive strategies. By teaming up with the orthopedic experts at Wellstar, you can overcome joint pain and stay at the top of your game.

Do: Train smart and prioritize recovery.

When it comes to joint health, the way you train matters just as much as how you recover.

“Smart training means warm-ups, cool downs and using ice after activities and heat before activities,” said Wellstar Chief Musculoskeletal Officer Dr. Joseph Burns. It also means understanding your body’s limits—you should avoid pushing too hard, too fast, as this can lead to overuse injuries that compromise long-term joint health.

Additionally, variety of movement is key. “You shouldn’t do one sport or one physical activity all year round,” noted Dr. Burns, who specializes in shoulder surgery and sports medicine. Try to mix up your exercises, incorporating a blend of strength, flexibility and mobility training to build joint resilience. Be mindful of any discomfort, and adjust your routine accordingly.

Finally, it’s important to allow for adequate rest and recovery between intense activities to prevent strain and reduce inflammation.

“There’s a normal soreness after activities,” Dr. Burns said, “but if you don’t give your body the opportunity to fully recover, it gets used to the idea that it’s always in pain, always fighting.”

By training smart and prioritizing recovery, you're not just protecting your joints in the short term—you’re setting the stage for a lifetime of movement and vitality.

Don’t: Ignore joint pain.

It’s important to pay attention to the cues your body gives you. Ignoring pain can lead to further damage. According to Dr. Burns, one of the first steps you can take when joint pain occurs is the R-I-C-E method.

“The acronym R-I-C-E, which is rest, ice, compression and elevation, is a good place to start,” he said. This simple yet effective treatment can greatly reduce pain and swelling, and help you get back to enjoying the things you love.

However, if your pain is debilitating, persistent or accompanied by other symptoms, you should consult a physician. “In general, we tell people that the severity of the pain matters; sharp, intense pain is your body telling you something,” Dr. Burns explained. “Another sign is how you’re sleeping. If pain is waking you up at night, it’s time to look into it.”

Do: Discuss treatment options with your healthcare provider.

At Wellstar, our comprehensive total joint care program addresses a variety of joint concerns with both surgical and non-surgical treatment options. We work closely with you to tailor the best treatment plan for your lifestyle.

“Joint pain comes in all shapes and sizes,” Dr. Burns said. Sometimes R-I-C-E is all it takes to reduce your joint pain and promote healing. Other times, a total joint replacement or minimally invasive procedure may be recommended to help you get back to an active lifestyle, whether it’s playing sports or keeping up with your grandkids.

“My job is to help people feel better,” said Dr. Burns, “and sometimes that requires surgery, sometimes it requires medication, sometimes it requires education, and sometimes it requires a pat on the back and encouragement that people are on the right track and doing the right thing.”

In many cases, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications and minimally invasive procedures can provide significant relief before surgery becomes necessary. Whenever possible, Wellstar utilizes state-of-the-art technology to deliver focused care with fewer complications and shorter recovery time.

One example is a treatment called platelet-rich plasma, or PRP. “It harnesses the body’s own healing ability, which is quite amazing,” explained Dr. Burns. “It involves removing a little bit of blood, extracting certain cells—in this case the platelet cells—concentrating them and then injecting them into the body. It’s a great example of the technological advances that can help people avoid surgery.”

If surgery is recommended by your doctor, ensure you understand the risks, benefits and expected recovery timeline. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek a second opinion if something concerns you. A well-informed patient is an empowered patient.

Do: Practice healthy habits.

Taking care of your joints requires a high level of discipline when it comes to health maintenance.

Your daily routine should include “stretching, strength training, proper nutrition, rest, recovery and keeping your mind active and focused,” Dr. Burns recommended. “In combination, this can help significantly reduce not only your risk for injury, but your blood pressure, and stress and anxiety levels.”

Stress can trigger joint pain, making it vital to prioritize your mental health. “The mental resiliency is equally important as the physical work,” Dr. Burns said.

Other preventive care practices, including wearing supportive footwear, focusing on proper form and avoiding overexertion, can help create a solid foundation that supports joint health over time. Neglecting these basics often leads to imbalances and strain that could have been avoided.

“It’s an ongoing, lifelong process of maintaining your health,” said Dr. Burns. “There are no shortcuts.”

Don’t: Navigate joint pain alone.

If you’re dealing with joint pain, don’t be afraid to seek care and guidance. “We can’t do it alone,” said Dr. Burns.

While acute inflammation comes on quickly and can be treated fast and effectively, chronic inflammation “isn’t as easy to fix,” the surgeon said. “Oftentimes it involves a long-term approach that may involve rebalancing muscles, physical therapy or muscle strengthening.” By establishing a trusted team of providers, from orthopedists to rheumatologists to physical therapists, you can feel supported at every step of the process.

“From a physician’s standpoint, it is extremely valuable to know your patient,” Dr. Burns shared. “That’s why a health system like Wellstar, where our patients often see several physicians within the system, can be extremely helpful.”

Achieving optimal joint health requires collaboration among numerous experts. Your doctors, surgeons and specialists may work together to recommend exercises or offer lifestyle adjustments that will protect and strengthen your joints.

Above all, maintain open communication with your care team about your symptoms, goals and any changes you feel. This proactive approach ensures you’re not making decisions alone. By seeking the right help early on, you can prevent further joint pain and get back to enjoying daily activities with confidence and ease.

Find a Wellstar orthopedic specialist near you.

Dr. Scott Miller, a Wellstar urologist and expert in robotic and laparoscopic surgery, joined Dr. Bruce Feinberg on 95.5 WSB’s The Weekly Checkup. Together, they tackled common questions about urology, prostate health, incontinence and more.

Does dark urine mean I have a medical problem?

There’s no normal color for urine, Dr. Miller explained. Most of the time, expect urine to be “fairly diluted, almost like water or very pale yellow.”

Urine color may be different in the morning after a night’s sleep without hydration. Some prescription and over-the-counter medicines, like multivitamins, can also affect urine color. Any red in urine could indicate the presence of blood. That’s a sign to call your primary care provider or urologist.

Should I be worried about bubbles in my urine?

That depends, according to Dr. Miller.

“If bubbles form simply because of the way your urine stream hits the water—causing a little turbulence—there’s no need for concern,” he said. “But if you actually feel the bubbles or air passing as you urinate, that’s different. It could indicate a bladder infection or an abnormal connection between the urinary and GI (gastrointestinal) tract.”

In that case, Dr. Miller said a doctor would likely order tests to determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

Do women need urologists?

Yes. Urologists specialize in treating the kidneys and the bladder in both women and men, in addition to addressing prostate health in men.

“Anyone with a urologic issue should see a urologist,” Dr. Miller said. He noted that women are more likely than men to experience conditions like kidney stones and urinary tract infections, making specialized care essential.

Is bladder leakage inevitable with aging?

Dr. Miller noted that bladder control issues are common, but they can be an avoidable part of aging.

“Some females assume bladder control is a natural consequence of childbirth or aging,” he said. “But in reality, these are all treatable issues and sometimes very simple fixes.”

Dr. Miller said that both women and men can benefit from treatments that may include medications, lifestyle changes and minimally invasive procedures. He encourages those experiencing bladder control concerns to talk with their primary care doctor or urologist rather than assume it’s something they must live with.

What about erectile dysfunction? Is it unavoidable with aging?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) can occur at any age, Dr. Miller said. But it is more common as men get older.

“ED isn’t necessarily a direct result of aging. … For instance, testosterone levels naturally decline with age, which can contribute to ED. But that’s not necessarily the cause of the erectile function,” he said.

Underlying health conditions, such as heart disease, are sometimes related to ED and are more common as people age.

People with other diseases, such as diabetes, may also experience erectile dysfunction, he explained.

At any age, patients should see a doctor as soon as they start having erectile dysfunction, Dr. Miller said. Doctors can test and rule out other causes. Early treatment for erectile dysfunction is often more successful than when patients delay seeing a doctor.

Is vasectomy safe? Is it reversible?

Not only is vasectomy safe, but it’s also the “most effective form of permanent birth control,” Dr. Miller assured listeners. The outpatient procedure is performed in a doctor’s office, and recovery is quick.

Some men worry that a vasectomy might affect their sexual function or desire, but that’s not true, Dr. Miller added. Vasectomy doesn’t affect the testicles, where testosterone, the male hormone, is produced or the delivery of the hormone to the bloodstream.

Dr. Miller said that when patients ask if vasectomy is reversible, he cautions that while vasectomy reversal is possible, it is a complex procedure with no guarantees. The patient’s age, how much time has passed since the vasectomy and the partner’s fertility all influence the chances of achieving pregnancy.

“So, never count on it,” he said. “But there are other ways to achieve pregnancy, even in someone who has had a vasectomy, including retrieving sperm directly from the testicle” then attempting in-vitro fertilization.

If I have prostate cancer, does that mean I need surgery?

Advances in prostate cancer detection and treatment have changed considerably in how doctors treat the disease, Dr. Miller said.

“Up to 40% of all prostate cancers we diagnose are at least initially candidates for active surveillance,” he said. Of those, 40 to 50% will, over three to five years, require treatment. Even in those cases, he added doctors “have a lot of ‘runway.’”

“It’s like landing a commuter jet on a 747 runway. We don’t need to start at the very beginning of the runway to safely land before the runway runs out,” he said.

For some patients, that may eventually mean they are candidates for laparoscopic surgery to remove the prostate gland or parts of it that are cancerous.

Advances in diagnostic tools, such as MRIs, genetic testing and genomic testing, have also revolutionized the detection and treatment of prostate cancer, according to Dr. Miller. Genetic testing can help determine a person’s risk of developing prostate cancer, while genomic testing reveals the molecular makeup of tumors and helps guide treatment decisions between doctors and patients.

Can I change my diet to prevent kidney stones?

Dr. Miller recommends two dietary habits to help prevent kidney stones: drinking plenty of fluids and limiting sodium intake—not only table salt, but also foods high in sodium, including diet and snack foods. He advised that when you have a meal high in sodium, counter its effects by drinking extra water.

In general, “most of the things in your diet will have very little effect on your chance of having kidney stones,” Dr. Miller said.

Because calcium is one of the chemicals that makes up kidney stones, Dr. Miller said many people ask if they should avoid calcium to prevent kidney stones. In most cases, the answer is no. Women especially need adequate calcium in their diets to support bone health and reduce their risk of osteoporosis.

Find a urologist at Wellstar

Do you have questions or concerns about your urinary health? Wellstar’s expert urologists are ready to help. Visit wellstar.org/urology to learn more or schedule an appointment.

The history of orthopedic surgery is mankind’s attempt to make straight that which is crooked. The advent of anesthesia made it possible to use surgery to break bones and re-align them without undue pain. But the art of correcting deformities caused by abnormal growth or trauma has taken hundreds of years to advance to its current form. The most important observation—made incidentally by multiple surgeons, but most famously by Gavrill Ilizarov during the 1950s in the Soviet Union—was that a broken bone, if pulled apart with appropriate timing and stress, can form new bone.

This discovery came with years of painstaking research and trial and error in order to effect techniques that would allow for gradual correction of limbs that were bent, short or otherwise deformed. Initially, external fixator apparatus were used to manually manipulate the bone with daily turns of a crank, which involved mathematical calculations and equations that lacked precision when applied to the individual case. Gradually, these methods evolved to incorporate automation, modern computing and more biologically friendly surgical techniques. Newer devices allowed for the distraction pressure to be applied inside the body rather than outside in select cases, making the process of correcting limb alignment problems less cumbersome to patients.

Limb lengthening and deformity correction has always been a powerful yet technically difficult procedure, making it a smaller and less-utilized area of orthopedics. But the ability to correct errors of genetics or nutrition or deformities from trauma or infection is nothing short of magical—and magic requires study, practice and dedication to perform correctly. Distraction osteogenesis techniques are often applied to problems that are intractable by other, more commonplace means. Practitioners of the art enjoy the unique challenges presented and the potential to affect patients’ lives for the better. It is not always easy or simple, but the reward of helping others is the driving force behind the effort.

Subspecialty training in the area of limb lengthening and deformity correction is now available in the United States at several centers. A subspecialty society, the Limb Lengthening and Reconstructive Society (LLRS) provides educational opportunities with meetings and traveling fellowships. Orthopedic surgeons who have taken advantage of the society’s training and membership are often those most committed to learning the art and science of limb deformity correction. The Orthopedic Trauma team at Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center includes physicians who have undergone this training and enjoy being a resource for patients and the orthopedic surgery community at large when it comes to limb deformities, difficult malunions or nonunions, infections requiring bone transport and other complicated cases. At Wellstar, modern techniques using both external fixation and computer-assisted guidance allow limb deformity correction to occur with minimal patient discomfort or manipulation of complex apparatus. Internal techniques are also used, including lengthening nails that allow the limb to be lengthened or straightened, replacing the need for a cumbersome external fixator.

Complications from orthopedic surgery often require unique solutions. Infected joint replacements, infected bone that requires removal (osteomyelitis) and bone loss resulting from severe trauma are all conditions that can be treated with modern limb lengthening and deformity correction techniques. The physicians specializing in these techniques are happy to consult over the phone with other physicians who need assistance in these complex situations, as well as share their expertise with patients during in-person consultations. The desire to provide world-class healthcare defines the individuals who make up the Orthopedic Trauma division at Wellstar. There are few orthopedic problems that they are not eager to try to solve, and they are always willing to learn the newest techniques in order to improve the lives of those who believed their cause was lost.

When a health condition affects your child’s quality of life or keeps them from doing what they love, your family can rely on Wellstar Pediatric Orthopedics to provide compassionate, comprehensive care. As your child grows, so do their bones and joints, and they need specialized expertise—whether they have broken a bone on the playground or have an orthopedic condition present at birth.

Approximately one to four of every 1,000 babies are born with clubfoot, a condition in which one or both feet are turned inward and downward. The deformity affects a baby’s bones, muscles, tendons and blood vessels. Fifty percent of children born with clubfoot have bilateral clubfoot, which means both feet are affected. While the condition is readily visible at birth, many times the deformity is detected on prenatal ultrasounds, allowing weeks or months for the parents to prepare for the expected treatment. Most children born with clubfoot do not have a parent with the condition. Risk factors include male biological sex (boys are born with clubfoot twice as often as girls), genetic syndromes, neuromuscular disorders, birth defects and a breach birth.

Clubfoot is not a painful deformity, and most children who are treated early go on to live active and healthy lives. However, untreated clubfoot will not improve on its own. As the child gets older, they will have a challenging time walking on their own.

Our team of experts understands that babies born with clubfoot may also have associated conditions such as hip dysplasia or torticollis. Therefore, we thoroughly examine your child to ensure all their needs are addressed.

There are two types of clubfoot: idiopathic and syndromic. Idiopathic clubfoot is the most common, and although we suspect there is a genetic component, we still do not know what causes it. Idiopathic clubfoot is not related to any other medical issues. Alternatively, syndromic clubfoot is more severe, difficult to treat and occurs as part of a larger medical condition. If your child is diagnosed with syndromic clubfoot, our team will coordinate with multiple specialists to tailor care to your child’s specific needs.

Treatment for clubfoot usually begins when the child is a few weeks old. The goal is to correct the foot position before they learn to walk, thus minimizing the impact of the condition on the child’s long-term mobility. This is done through a series of casts designed to help the foot grow more normally.

“We use the Ponseti method, a nonsurgical approach that uses a series of casts and then bracing to gradually reposition the foot,” said Wellstar Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Michael Priola.

With this method, the doctor stretches out and repositions your child’s foot, then places it into a long leg cast to hold their foot in the appropriate position. Long leg casts are used to prevent the cast from slipping off the child’s leg. The cast is removed in about a week, the doctor again repositions the foot, and a new long leg cast is placed. This method continues until your child’s foot is moved into the correct position. Many of our providers utilize soft cast material, which has a higher parent satisfaction rating than the typical plaster material. Following casting, about 90% of patients require a minor procedure that releases the Achilles tendon, allowing further correction of the foot deformity. A final cast is then worn for an additional three weeks before being removed in the clinic.

Once corrected, a brace is used to maintain the alignment over several years. For the first three months after completion of the casting, the brace is worn for about 22 to 23 hours per day. After that, children typically progress to wearing the brace for naps and nighttime only (about 15 to 16 hours per day). This allows your child to learn to crawl, walk, run and play in the normal developmental time frame. Families should continue with this bracing schedule until the patient is 4 years old to prevent the condition from returning.

“This method boasts a high success rate and avoids the need for extensive surgery,” Dr. Priola said. “Sometimes in more severe cases (including a rigid clubfoot) or if the Ponseti method fails, more extensive surgical intervention may be considered.” These surgeries include a complete posteromedial release of soft tissues, tendon lengthening and realignment of joints.

With timely and appropriate treatment, children born with clubfoot can experience significant improvement, leading to a bright future that is not limited by the condition.

If your child is affected by clubfoot, our pediatric orthopedic specialists are here to provide expert care for this condition and support them at every step of treatment. We understand that medical procedures can be stressful for both children and their families. Your child’s care team will personalize treatment to their individual needs and answer any questions you have about clubfoot or managing the condition.

To book an appointment with a pediatric orthopedic surgeon, visit wellstar.org/pedsortho or call (404) 321-9900.

Caring for people is what Wellstar is all about. It’s easy to see the impact made by physicians, nurses and other clinical team members. But many others work beyond hospital walls to make compassionate care possible. One place where you can find them is Wellstar’s Consolidated Service Center—known to the team as the CSC. The 175,000-square-foot facility operates as a same-day delivery retailer, fulfilling orders for everything from medical supplies to printed materials for patients. The operation supplies Wellstar’s hospitals, health parks and other patient care locations.

The foundation for the important work done by one CSC team started more than two decades ago, when Wellstar partnered with Tommy Nobis Center.

“The Tommy Nobis Center’s mission is empowering people through employment,” said Darren Hazeur, Tommy Nobis Center employment site supervisor at Wellstar. “Tommy Nobis Center envisions supportive communities where people with disabilities are afforded the opportunity to work. Our focus is to educate, train and employ people with disabilities so they can truly blossom.

When a stroke or heart attack strikes, every second matters. Saving time could mean saving a life, and it’s crucial that medical treatment starts right away. That’s why in the case of a heart attack or stroke, call 911 immediately—don’t drive yourself or another person to the hospital. 

Emergency Medical Service crews are trained to start life-saving treatment on the way to the hospital, minimizing damage to your heart or brain. They can also conduct and interpret electrocardiograms to diagnose a heart attack in the ambulance. 

You also don’t want to drive if you are experiencing a heart attack or stroke yourself because your condition could worsen on the way to the emergency department and impact your ability to stay safe on the road. 

“If you're having an emergency, which could be severe abdominal pain, chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness that you can't really explain, you've got to call 911,” said Dr. Ed Malcom, an emergency medicine physician at Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center. “The ambulance and the EMS services will get you to the emergency department in a safe way, and we will get you taken care of.” 

When a patient has a heart attack, ambulance crews communicate with our cardiac team on the way to the hospital, bypassing the emergency department and diverting directly to the cardiac catheterization lab, where our team is ready to restore blood flow to your heart. Calling 911 means reopening the heart artery sooner. And when someone has a stroke, it’s also crucial to take action right away—the sooner you seek treatment, the more brainpower can be saved. 

“Time is the most important factor,” said Wellstar Neurosurgeon Dr. Benjamin Zussman. “Saving time can be the difference between having a permanent stroke or making a good recovery.” 

To learn more about how Wellstar treats heart attacks and strokes, visit our heart care and neuro care pages. 

When it comes to getting high-quality care for your heart, you can count on Wellstar.

Because we know heart health is an essential part of overall wellness, we offer leading expertise, innovative treatments and compassionate care to protect your cardiovascular health.

From heart attacks and rehabilitation to cardiac surgery and psychological support, your heart is in expert hands at Wellstar.

High-tech heart treatments

With the largest network of certified Emergency Cardiac Care Centers (ECCC) in Georgia, Wellstar ensures world-class heart care is never far away.

Our cardiovascular experts are ready to treat patients at the first signs of a heart attack. We use high-tech equipment—including electrocardiograms (EKG), chest X-rays and cardiac catheterization—to diagnose heart attacks quickly.

Getting the right care can minimize or even prevent heart damage. That’s why Wellstar relies on the most advanced treatments, such as Shockwave technology, medicines and life-saving cardiac surgery, to effectively prevent and treat heart attacks as fast as possible.

Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center has a cardiac hybrid operating room, bringing a catheterization lab and surgery suite together in one place. With catheter-based procedures, our interventional cardiologists can provide expert, minimally invasive heart attack care.

We also perform structural heart procedures, including valve repairs and replacements, along with cardiac surgery and electrophysiology procedures that can determine the cause of heart rhythm problems.

At Wellstar, we don’t just treat heart conditions when they happen. Our providers also offer world-class preventative care, helping people like Latoya Jordan catch chronic conditions—such as high blood pressure—at the very start.

The Wellstar Comprehensive Aortic Program provides treatment for people with emergency and non-emergency diseases of the aorta. We offer cutting-edge procedures and devices to diagnose, monitor and repair all types of aneurysms. From screening to treatment, our team uses a coordinated approach to care which includes comprehensive diagnostic testing. When urgent care is warranted, we can treat aortic emergencies quickly.

Care that never skips a beat

If an on-going heart condition, such as atrial fibrillation (AFib), is keeping you down, Wellstar has a team of experts who can help.

When Frank Ryan’s heart had trouble keeping pace and kept him from playing the tuba, he felt off-beat in everyday life. After getting specialized care at Wellstar, he’s back in the band again.

Wellstar Cardiac Electrophysiologist Dr. Narendra Kanuru shared state-of-the-art treatments available for heart rhythm disorders.

“Along with advanced medical therapies, we have numerous interventional or surgical therapies, including pacemakers, defibrillators and other advanced cardiac devices as well as cardiac catheter ablation,” Dr. Kanuru said.

Cardiac catheter ablation is a non-surgical procedure available at Wellstar that helps restore a regular heart rhythm by blocking abnormal electrical signals.

With the latest advances in electrophysiology at Wellstar, we’re keeping hearts going strong.

Hope for heart failure

Wellstar also provides expert care for people with congestive heart failure like Bow Matthews. The husband and father-of-two found support from our Heart Failure Academy and learned how to take care of his well-being for the long haul.

To help prevent heart failure flare-ups, Wellstar offers a remote heart monitoring technology that provides real-time health information to our providers.

“With heart failure, as with all health issues, it’s best to take preventative action and stop problems from occurring,” said Dr. Hans Lee, medical director for the Wellstar congestive heart failure program. “Monitoring your heart health and staying in touch with your cardiologist can help keep you out of the hospital and keep your heart in shape.”

For those whose hearts need extra assistance like Mike Clements, a left ventricular assistance device (LVAD) can be a game-changer. An LVAD is a battery-powered pump that is surgically implanted to help the heart more effectively pump blood.

"An LVAD gives patients with severe heart failure the opportunity to get their lives back,” said Dr. Brian Howard, medical director of the advanced heart failure and LVAD program at Wellstar Kennestone. “These life-saving devices are powerful enough to take over for the failing heart. They allow patients to enjoy life with their loved ones as they await a heart transplant, and in some cases, they even serve as an alternate to a heart transplant entirely.”

At the Heart Failure Clinic at Wellstar Cobb Medical Center and the Advanced Heart Failure Program at Wellstar Kennestone, trained experts provide specialized care for those with heart failure and LVAD implants, helping to improve quality of life.

After Mike received his LVAD implant, he was able to walk his daughter down the aisle at her wedding. Thanks to advanced technology available at Wellstar, patients with heart failure can keep doing what matters most.

Specialized support services

Wellstar has dedicated resources to help people with cardiac conditions find support.

Following a medical event like a heart attack or other serious cardiac problem, Wellstar offers cardiac rehabilitation to get people back on track.

Cardiac rehabilitation is a medically monitored program that provides education, support and lifestyle modifications. Our team helps you learn heart-healthy behaviors and lower your risk for future heart issues.

However, we understand health journeys aren’t just about physical healing. Dealing with heart issues can also cause many difficult mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression.

“At Wellstar, we wanted to build out a program just for our cardiovascular patients because behavioral health and cardiac health are really closely connected,” said Dr. Shawn Coyne, Wellstar director of health psychology and cardiac psychologist. “In fact, cardiac patients are three times more likely to be depressed than the general population.”

After living with three chronic heart conditions for years, John Petrick found solace in meeting with a Wellstar cardiac psychologist. Now, he’s learned new coping skills and how to prioritize his mental well-being.

With support services at the ready, patients with complex conditions can better understand themselves and their overall health.

Care to keep your heart healthy

No matter what your cardiovascular concerns may be, Wellstar is dedicated to helping people with heart conditions live life to the fullest.

Learn more about how Wellstar is protecting heart health in Georgia, and how you can take control of your cardiovascular health.

It’s impossible to count all the ways your heart supports you in a single day. Whether it’s checking out a new trail, gardening or simply playing with your kids, every beat of your heart helps you do all the activities you enjoy most.

That’s why it’s so vital to take care of your cardiovascular health—and doing so is easier than you might think. According to Wellstar medical experts, consistency is the key.

“To keep your heart in top shape, make gradual changes sustained over a lifetime,” said Dr. Vivek Nautiyal, Wellstar medical director of preventative cardiology. “Investing in your heart health can be as simple as going for a walk after work, trying a healthy recipe or scheduling that wellness exam you may have been delaying.”

Remember to start small—by just taking a few simple steps, you can keep your heart going strong.

Detect heart disease at the start

Getting a heart screening is a great way to care for your cardiac health. The Know Your Heart screening program helps catch potential heart problems early, so you can live life to the fullest. Through this testing, you can learn your risk of heart disease and other serious conditions, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol.

After the screening, you will receive an individualized health report with all the latest stats about your heart. Our team will go over the results with you one-on-one and recommend lifestyle modifications to help you be the healthiest you.

Schedule your heart screening today.

Call (770) 956-STAR (7827) or visit the Know Your Heart page for more information.

Protecting your heart takes a team

Along with monitoring your overall well-being, your primary care clinician can help catch potential heart problems early.

“At your annual wellness exam, your provider can assess your risk of certain heart conditions, such as heart disease or high blood pressure,” Dr. Nautiyal explained.

Your provider will check the Foundational 4 numbers that are the cornerstone of general wellness and heart health, including:

• Body mass index (BMI)
• Blood pressure
• Blood glucose (sugar)
• Blood cholesterol

“Your provider can help create a personalized plan to keep your heart healthy, which may include diet, exercise or other lifestyle modifications,” Dr. Nautiyal shared. “If you need expert cardiovascular care, they can also refer you to a heart specialist right away.”

When it comes to staying ahead of potential health issues, Dr. Nautiyal also shared the importance of being aware of your family history and cardiovascular stats.

“Be sure to know your cholesterol numbers and seek a preventative cardiology consultation if you have a family history of premature heart attacks, coronary disease or stroke—especially at an age below 55 years old,” Dr. Nautiyal said.

Learn more about the advanced heart care services offered at Wellstar.

At Wellstar, we understand how important your family’s health is to you. That’s why we partner with people and families across all ages to provide the continuing care each person needs to live their healthiest, fullest life.

By following tips from Wellstar pediatric and primary care experts to prioritize healthy habits at every stage, families can work together to take charge of their health and foster a lifetime of well-being.

Toddlerhood & early childhood

Building a strong foundation

Early childhood is a prime time to establish healthy behaviors as children’s brains are rapidly developing, making them highly receptive to learning.

“Nurturing healthy habits in childhood provides a strong foundation for long-term physical, emotional and social success,” said Dr. Joanna Dolgoff, a pediatrician at Wellstar East Paulding Pediatric Center and spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics.

By incorporating several key habits into their children’s daily routines, parents can set the tone for a healthy, thriving life.

Prioritize a balanced diet: Preparing meals with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and dairy not only supports children’s growth and development, but also introduces positive eating habits that can last a lifetime.

Additionally, “Let kids decide when they are full,” Dr. Dolgoff said. “Avoid using food as a reward or punishment.”

Establish routines: This includes fostering healthy sleep habits by creating a consistent bedtime routine, instituting regular meal and snack times, keeping kids active and limiting screen time.

“For children under 2, avoid screens,” Dr. Dolgoff advised. “For ages 2 to 5, limit to one hour of high-quality programming a day.”

Model healthy habits: “Children naturally observe and mimic their parents’ actions,” Dr. Dolgoff shared. “Be a role model by making healthy choices yourself, like exercising regularly, eating well and managing stress effectively. Kids are more likely to adopt positive habits when they see their parents practicing them.”

Middle childhood & adolescence

Encouraging healthy choices

As children grow and desire more of a say in the decision-making that affects them, parents should actively encourage their involvement while still ensuring their choices align with healthy behaviors.

Cook and eat meals together: Healthy foods fuel children’s physical growth and brain development. Involving kids in meal planning and cooking not only teaches them about the importance of healthy eating, but also fosters connection and quality time.

“Create the weekly grocery list together, cook and eat together,” said Dr. Neety Patel, a primary care physician (PCP) with Wellstar in West Cobb. “Eating together is a great way to set aside 30 minutes (or more) to enjoy your food, talk about your day and bond.”

Swap screen time for movement and creativity: Set boundaries around recreational screen time and encourage activities like reading, drawing, storytelling or outdoor play, Dr. Dolgoff suggested. Limiting screen time an hour before bed can help ensure kids get the recommended amount of sleep (9 to 12 hours for ages 6 to 12; 8 to 10 hours for teens).

“Too much screen time can negatively impact mental health,” said Dr. Dolgoff, “while creative activities boost cognitive development and emotional expression.”

According to Dr. Dolgoff, parents should also schedule time for at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily. “This can include walks, sports, dancing or family games. Movement promotes physical health, reduces stress and helps kids focus better in school."

Make it a team effort: Instilling healthy values takes a village, so remember to involve the whole family in decision-making. “Kids feel more motivated and empowered when they are part of the process,” explained Dr. Dolgoff.

Wellstar Primary Care Physician Dr. Nikia Garland, who practices family medicine in West Cobb, added that setting realistic goals together promotes a sense of shared responsibility. “Use each other as an accountability partner,” she said.

And when children show progress or achieve success, don’t forget to celebrate. “Celebrations reinforce the idea that healthy habits are rewarding,” Dr. Dolgoff said.

Young adulthood

Taking charge of health management

Young adulthood is a period marked by significant life changes and evolving responsibilities. By teaching young adults to make healthcare a priority—even though they may feel invincible—parents can help set them up for future success.

Coordinate the transfer to adult-oriented care: Between ages 18 to 21, as students graduate or transition to life beyond high school, parents should coordinate the “handoff" from their pediatrician to an adult PCP.

“The transition from a pediatrician to an adult PCP is a critical step in helping teens take charge of their healthcare,” said Dr. Patel. “Transitioning ensures no gap in care.”

Making this switch empowers young adults to proactively take charge of their health management by establishing a plan to continue with annual physicals and age-appropriate health screenings.

Encourage discussion: Parents can further support their children during this transitional stage by maintaining open and honest communication about health topics.

“Parents can help by starting the conversation early, discussing the upcoming transition and why it’s important,” said Dr. Dolgoff. “Involve the teen in the process. Let them participate in selecting an adult PCP. Show them how to schedule appointments, refill prescriptions and understand health insurance. Teach them about their medical histories, including allergies, medications and any chronic conditions. Emphasize the importance of annual physicals and the benefits of preventive care.”

Adulthood

Maintaining long-term wellness

By the time young adults reach their mid- to late-20s, they should strive to have an established relationship with their primary care team, helping them stay ahead of injury and disease with regular screenings and preventative care.

Schedule annual physicals: Annual checkups create a baseline that can be used to track a person’s health over time. These exams are one of the best ways to catch and treat early signs of illness before they turn into serious health problems.

“During patient’s physicals, I review my wellness tips with them,” Dr. Garland shared. "It includes how to eat healthy (and what to do if you don’t), how to get restful sleep, getting physical activity, adequate water intake and daily stress relief.”

Limit processed foods and sugar: Eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods can make a huge difference when it comes to maintaining a healthy weight, lowering the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes, and improving energy levels.

“It seems simple and obvious to preach, but in our busy lives, we often tend to eat on the go,” said Dr. Patel. “A freshly cooked meal can do wonders for your day.”

Stay active to age well: Exercise has many benefits for adults as they age, from staving off chronic disease to enhancing strength and balance to boosting mental health.

“Regular movement can maintain your muscle and bone strength and improve most musculoskeletal pains,” said Dr. Patel. For adults, Dr. Garland noted that she typically recommends getting 30 minutes of daily continuous physical activity or 10,000 steps a day.

“If you enjoy the gym, go for it,” said Dr. Patel. “If not, get active any way you are able—go for a walk, a hike, a bike ride, take a dance lesson with your loved one, do a Zumba class on YouTube (it's free!) or some chair yoga.”

However, it’s important to know your limits, added the physician. “If something starts to hurt excessively, scale back and talk to your provider if you're not sure,” she said. “Some movement is better than no movement!”

Take control of your family’s health by finding a Wellstar pediatrician or a Wellstar primary care provider near you.

The Wellstar Center for Health Equity, which strives to address health inequities across Georgia, and Small TALK, a literacy program made possible by donations to the Wellstar Foundation, have announced the launch of a pilot initiative in partnership with Cobb Collaborative. The Family Literacy Kits initiative will enhance health literacy among youth in the Fair Oaks community of Cobb County through the distribution of age-appropriate reading materials and educational resources.

Addressing a critical need

As one of many solutions to improve outcomes for children and their families, Cobb Collaborative is committed to uniting families, educators and community partners to enhance literacy and foster a love for reading among children. With two-thirds of Georgia’s third graders not reading at grade level, Cobb Collaborative’s Family Literacy Kit program intervenes with resources and support. By providing high-quality, age-appropriate reading materials for children from birth to age 5, this program fosters positive interactions between children and their caregivers and promotes kindergarten readiness. Family Literacy Kits address a critical need identified in Wellstar’s Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA): improving literacy as a social determinant of health.

Collaborative effort

Cobb Collaborative, a key player in the Get Georgia Reading Campaign, has been instrumental in improving third-grade reading levels across the community. This pilot initiative, supported by Wellstar Community Health and Wellstar Center for Health Equity, along with Small TALK, will distribute 10 Family Literacy Kits each month for a year through the Sibley Library. Kits will incorporate a bilingual book (in Spanish and English), a hands-on activity related to the book's theme, instructional inserts with additional activities and other resources. Wellstar will also contribute materials to support pediatric health education and access to social care such as food and transportation resources.

Rae-Anne Pinckney, manager of community benefit for the Wellstar Center for Health Equity, notes, "As we launch this initiative, we are reminded of the profound impact that early literacy can have on a child's future. By providing these Family Literacy Kits, we are not only fostering a love for reading, but also laying the foundation for lifelong learning and success. This work is crucial in bridging the literacy gap and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive."

The Family Literacy Kits pilot collaboration launched in January. Monthly themes include:

• January: Security and Exploration
• February: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging
• March: Growth/Community
• April: Sleep Health
• May: Emotional Wellness
• June: Life Cycles
• July: Physical Activity
• August: Oral Health
• September: Working Together
• October: Community/Belonging
• November: Nutrition
• December: Cultures/Celebration

Learn more about the Wellstar Center for Health Equity.

Whether you experience an injury, minor illness or simply need a wellness exam, the most important step you can take is getting the care you need. That way, you can find trained experts for your specific medical needs, stay ahead of potential health issues or even help prevent your condition from worsening. 

With primary, virtual, urgent and emergency care services available, as well as retail pharmacies, how do you decide which type of care is best for your medical situation? Learn the differences between each type of medical service so you don’t delay and get care right away. 

Local Pharmacies 

If you are ill and have minor symptoms, over-the-counter medications can help you feel better. At your local retail pharmacy, you can find over-the-counter treatments for minor conditions like colds. If your symptoms worsen or do not go away with over-the-counter treatments, contact your primary care team or visit an urgent care location. 

Local pharmacies also carry at-home COVID-19 tests, offering a convenient testing option for people who have been exposed or are experiencing mild symptoms of COVID-19. 

Virtual Care 

Whether you have a busy schedule or are just looking for a more convenient option, virtual appointments are an easy way to keep up with your health from anywhere. 

At Wellstar, we offer virtual visits with both primary care clinicians and specialists—no matter if you are an established patient or not. Connect with your Wellstar care team over the phone or with video on a computer, smartphone or tablet. 

If you’re an established patient, simply request a virtual visit through MyChart. If you don’t have an account, it’s easy to sign up for MyChart and keep all of your important health information in one secure space. You can also call your physician’s office directly and request a virtual appointment over the phone. 

These days, many types of appointments can be done virtually, including consultations, care for chronic conditions and prescription management. In addition to virtual primary and specialty care appointments, we also provide a Virtual Urgent Care service for minor medical concerns. 

While virtual care is a convenient way to stay well, it should never be used in place of emergency care. If you are experiencing a life-threatening medical emergency, call 911 right away. 

Primary Care 

Primary care is ongoing, comprehensive care and preventative medicine that helps you live a full, healthy life. 

Your primary care clinician—either an internal or family medicine physician, pediatrician or OB/GYN, depending on your age and medical needs—gets to know you and your health history on a deeper level. That means they have a more accurate view of your overall wellness. 

Services include: 

• Annual wellness exams 
• Health screenings, labs and imaging 
• Care for chronic conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure 
• Immunizations for children and adults 
• Treatment for acute illness, such as the flu or colds 
• Coordinating care with other specialists 
• Physical and mental health concerns, such as weight loss or anxiety 

Find a Wellstar primary care location in your neighborhood. 

Urgent Care 

If you’re dealing with a minor injury or illness or need care after your physician’s regular office hours, going to urgent care is often the right choice. Wellstar Urgent Care Centers provide quick, convenient care for non-emergency medical conditions. 

We also offer Virtual Urgent Care, which provides virtual health visits for minor medical concerns from the comfort and convenience of home. 

Wellstar Urgent Care provides: 

• Care for minor illnesses and injuries, such as coughs, colds, sprains and broken bones 
• Treatment for medical issues like bites, burns and cuts 
• COVID-19 testing and evaluation for patients 12 and older 
• Lab and X-rays 
• Sports physicals 
• Occupational health services 
• Worker’s compensation services 

Find a Wellstar urgent care location near you or make a virtual urgent care appointment. 

Emergency Care 

In a life-threatening medical emergency, every second counts. Never put off getting the proper care when lives are on the line. Remember, driving yourself to the emergency department (ED) may delay care, so call 911 for the fastest access to emergency care. 

When the unexpected happens, Wellstar is always ready in a medical emergency. Our trained team provides expert emergency care 24 hours a day for people of all ages. We even have several pediatric emergency room locations, specifically designed to treat children. 

Recognize the signs of a medical emergency: 

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath 
• Chest discomfort or pain 
• Severe abdominal pain 
• Fainting or loss of consciousness 
• Sudden dizziness, weakness or vision changes 
• Sudden, severe pain 
• Uncontrolled or severe bleeding 
• Choking, coughing up blood or severe vomiting 
• Suicidal or homicidal thoughts 
• Changes in mental status, such as confusion or unusual behavior 
• Traumatic injury due to a motor vehicle or other accidents 

Find a Wellstar emergency department close to you. Remember, call 911 right away in a medical emergency. That way, care can begin sooner during the crucial time it takes to be transported to the hospital. 

Having a bedtime routine is essential to catch more Zs throughout the year. When you wake up feeling rested, you often feel more productive and energized throughout the day.

Get started by setting a specific time to go to sleep—and stick to it. Make sure you reserve at least seven to nine hours per night for sleep.

Limit your screen time before getting in bed. Bright screens from a phone, computer or TV can keep your brain awake and make it harder to fall asleep.

If you’re having trouble getting to sleep, have a decaffeinated cup of tea or take a warm bath to help you relax.

Eat a balanced diet

When it comes to losing weight, many people look for a quick fix, which can often create unhealthy ways of eating. Creating a healthy eating plan from the start can help avoid any fad diet pitfalls.

Nutrition plans that restrict or eliminate food groups and those with extreme calorie deficits are difficult to maintain and can often produce more weight gain or undesired results, according to Wellstar Registered Dietitian Kelly Prian.

Diet trends can also create a negative relationship with food, which can make it harder to achieve your goals. Prian shared that those with long-term success focus on maintaining a plan that enables steady weight loss over time.

A healthy nutrition plan is balanced and emphasizes whole foods, such as fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, low fat dairy, nuts and seeds, and whole grains.

Try not to overcomplicate healthy eating. You can start by filling half your plate with vegetables or having fun trying new recipes.

Take care of your mental health

Self-care is an important aspect of your mental well-being and should be made a consistent part of each day.

“Make self-care a priority and a non-negotiable,” Dr. Gomez said.

“Think of self-care as a form of personal healing and a way to strengthen resilience,” Dr. Gomez explained. “Much like the way exercise enhances physical health, self-care enhances mental health.”

According to Dr. Gomez, it can be helpful to turn tasks we do on “autopilot” into more meaningful experiences.

“When washing your hands, give yourself a hand massage,” Dr. Gomez shared. “When driving, use red lights to practice deep breathing. Listen to a book on tape or language lessons rather than the radio or call someone to reconnect.”

If you feel overwhelmed by stress or anxiety, Wellstar behavioral health specialists are here for you.

“Working with a mental health provider is different than speaking with a friend or even a life coach,” Dr. Gomez said. “Mental health professionals are trained and licensed to address psychological or emotional wellness.”

Need support? Connect with a Wellstar behavioral health specialist.

The start of a new year is a great time to focus on your health. For many of us, that means setting resolutions to live a healthy, full life. While many people like to reset their health goals in January, Wellstar partners with patients year-round to help them feel their best.

By following tips from Wellstar health experts, you can create realistic resolutions and better your health—making healthy choices a lifelong habit rather than a short-term goal.

Partner with your Wellstar care team

When it comes to your wellness goals, staying healthy starts with a visit to your Wellstar primary care team.

“Your primary care provider will collaborate with you to create a customized care plan and recommend screenings based on factors such as your age, gender and family history,” said Wellstar Primary Care Physician Dr. Cristina Dasoveanu. “Regular screenings can help you stay ahead of issues and catch any health concerns early.”  

Know Your Foundational 4

To check your health status and screen for potential medical issues, your clinician will take your Foundational 4 numbers, a few screenings that identify risk factors for some health conditions such as heart disease.

Blood pressure

A blood pressure test helps diagnose hypertension (high blood pressure), hypotension (low blood pressure), heart disease and other conditions.

Blood glucose level

The amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood can indicate the onset of diabetes or risk of heart disease, heart attack or stroke.

Blood cholesterol

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often called “bad” cholesterol, can indicate clogged arteries, which may lead to heart disease, heart attack or stroke.

Body mass index (BMI)

A higher level of body fat may indicate an increased risk for heart disease, hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes.

Personalized OB/GYN care for women

“Gynecologists partner with women in their healthcare across the lifespan,” said Dr. LeThenia “Joy” Baker, a Wellstar obstetrician and gynecologist. “The first gynecologic visit is recommended between 13 and 15, and the first exam between 18 and 21.”

Gynecologists are uniquely positioned to care for women from adolescence through menopause and beyond. 

“We’ll make sure you are up to date on screenings like mammograms and Pap smears, help you make informed decisions about family planning and fertility, and provide medical and surgical treatment for a variety of conditions affecting the female reproductive system,” Dr. Baker said.

Primary care, anywhere

In addition to in-person primary care visits, Wellstar also offers virtual care options. Connect with your Wellstar clinician over the phone or with video on a computer, smartphone or tablet. 

“While primary care physicians help patients meet long-term wellness goals, we’re also here for you when you’re sick,” said Wellstar Primary Care Physician Dr. Georgia Forrest. “Your primary care provider is already familiar with your background and health needs, so we can seamlessly continue that care and help you get back on track when you’re ill.”

If you need to see a specialist such as a cardiologist, pulmonologist or neurologist, your primary care team will refer you for that specialized care while continuing to help you manage your overall wellness.

“Through our patient portal MyChart, specialists and primary care physicians can see test results and visit summaries and stay updated on how each of us is working with the patient,” Dr. Forrest said.

Accessing care online

If you’re a MyChart user, E-visits are a convenient way for you to receive care from a Wellstar clinician without needing to schedule an appointment or come to the clinic. Through MyChart, tell us about your health concern by answering a few questions about yourself and your symptoms, then a primary care expert will respond in MyChart with your care plan.

Conditions that can be treated with an E-visit include:

• cough
• sinus problems
• urinary tract infection
• conjunctivitis
• back pain
• diarrhea
• vaginal discharge
• heartburn

Log on to MyChart and click “Symptom Checker” from the menu in the top left of the screen to start an E-visit.

For more immediate healthcare needs that are not life-threatening, you can talk to a clinician with our Virtual Urgent Care. 

In an emergency, such as if you are having trouble breathing or experiencing chest pain, call 911.

Learn more about the different types of care Wellstar offers and where to go if you’re not feeling well.

Wellstar’s Comprehensive Aortic Program has identified thousands of hidden aneurysms in the past two years. The goal of the program is to help people before their conditions become life-threatening.

Aortic aneurysms are bulges in the body’s largest blood vessel. They can burst and cause severe damage or death if they become too big. Unfortunately, most people never know they have one because they are typically asymptomatic until they rupture.

However, the aortic experts at Wellstar found a way to help people before they have an emergency.

“When patients have CT scans at Wellstar for other reasons, we use artificial intelligence (AI) to sift through them and find images of someone who may have aneurysm,” said Wellstar Cardiothoracic Surgeon Dr. James Ryan Burke. “That allows us to proactively contact them and bring them in if appropriate for evaluation to discuss that diagnosis.”

Since the program launch in July 2022, more than 4,700 people with aneurysms have been placed under surveillance—a protocol to monitor people who have a risk. Surveillance allows people to avoid undergoing unnecessary surgery but to know when the aneurysm grows larger and becomes a greater concern.

For people who had large, potentially life-threatening aneurysms, cardiovascular surgeons and vascular surgeons performed more than 700 advanced procedures at Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center since the program began.

“These are major cardiac operations only performed in centers that offer complex aortic surgery,” Dr. Burke said. “The outcomes are best when done in experienced centers that do a high volume of procedures, like Wellstar Kennestone.”

Patient-centered aortic care

“This program is very patient-oriented. We have an excellent team of dedicated physicians at Wellstar to accomplish our mission and I think it’s very beneficial for both patients and physicians,” said Dr. Michael Corey of Vascular Surgical Associates.

The aortic program at Wellstar provides a higher level of aortic care than a patient would typically find in a local hospital. What makes the program unique is:

• The multispecialty team of aortic experts working together
• The cutting-edge AI technology used to identify patients who are unaware they have an aneurysm
• A high-tech hybrid operating room (OR) for open or minimally invasive procedures
• The latest surgical techniques and technology
• A high volume of procedures performed

“The aorta is the largest blood vessel in the body. It runs from the heart, through the chest and abdomen and down to the legs,” said Dr. Burke. “When you have a disease process involving the aorta, it requires multiple specialties.”

Wellstar’s specialized aortic team includes cardiovascular surgeons, vascular surgeons, cardiologists, anesthesiologists, radiologists, nurse practitioners and physician assistants.

There is also a cardiac hybrid OR that brings a catheterization lab and surgery suite together in one space, making aortic aneurysm treatment more efficient and encouraging collaboration between our expert providers.

“The hybrid OR is a state-of-the-art, innovative, open operating room where patients can receive complex aortic reconstructions—procedures that have open surgery components to them—as well as endovascular (or minimally invasive) aortic reconstructions. This all can take place in one nice operating room,” Dr. Corey said.

The aortic program is part of a larger heart care program at Wellstar, based at Wellstar Kennestone, the first in Georgia and the fourth in the nation to receive Comprehensive Cardiac Care Center Certification by The Joint Commission and American Heart Association. This is the highest certification in cardiovascular care.

Learn more or schedule an appointment with an aortic disease specialist.

Colorectal cancer continues to be a critical community health challenge across Georgia, particularly in areas served by Wellstar. High cancer incidence rates are driven by barriers such as limited access to education on screening guidelines, risk reduction strategies and screening resources. This lack of access impacts not only the affected communities but also the organizations working to support them.

To address these challenges, the Wellstar Center for Health Equity and Wellstar Community Health have launched the ColoCare Connect Program, funded by the 2024-2025 Community Health Improvement Plan Partnership Grant from Cobb & Douglas Public Health (CDPH) with support from the Wellstar Foundation. This program aims to improve access to colorectal cancer education and screenings by providing fecal immunochemical tests (FITs) to community clinics serving high-risk populations.

Building on insights gained through previous collaborations, including the #GoodDownThere campaign with BLKHLTH and Cottonelle, this program is designed to overcome obstacles such as low awareness, insufficient health insurance coverage, fear of test results and limited access to resources.

The ColoCare Connect Program focuses on empowering community clinics to seamlessly integrate colorectal cancer screening into their care workflows. This approach supports education, screening and follow-up care, ensuring a more comprehensive and sustainable impact while directly addressing barriers to improve screening rates and outcomes among high-risk and underserved populations.

We are excited to collaborate with the following community clinic organizations on this initiative:

• Bethesda Community Clinic
• Bwell Medical and Wellness Center
• The Rouse Foundation
• Someone Cares, Inc.

These partnerships will help bring critical screening resources to vulnerable populations while supporting clinics in their mission to provide equitable healthcare.

We are grateful for the commitment of these clinics and look forward to seeing the positive impact of the ColoCare Connect Program in the communities we serve. Together, we are making strides toward reducing the burden of colorectal cancer and advancing health equity across Georgia.

From catching cancer to following through with expert care, Wellstar ensures patients never have to fight lung cancer alone.

Wellstar is dedicated to early intervention in lung cancer, which improves outcomes for patients. After detection of an abnormality on a CT scan, patients are immediately surrounded with an interdisciplinary support team devoted to their well-being.

Identifying lung cancer early

If you are at increased risk for developing lung cancer, talk to your care team about screenings. With a low-dose CT scan of the chest, it only takes a few seconds to check in on your lung health. These screenings are offered at several Wellstar imaging centers.

The United States Preventive Services Task Force has revised lung screening guidelines. Patients may qualify for screening if they are 50 to 80 years old and smoked for 20 years. If they are a former smoker, they may qualify if they quit less than 15 years ago.

“Lung screening improves a person’s chances of detecting a lung cancer at an early stage and being cured of that cancer,” said Wellstar Thoracic Surgeon Dr. William Mayfield.

Because finding cancer and starting treatment sooner can be life-saving, Wellstar has invested in the incidental nodule program. When people come into a hospital seeking care for something else—whether that be a health condition like appendicitis or a traumatic event like a motorcycle accident—they might get a scan of the abdomen or chest that also shows portions of the lungs.

Using artificial intelligence, reports of those scans are fed to report coordinators, categorized based on their risk level, and if the patient is higher-risk, forwarded to nurse navigators for review. Nurse navigators consult with physicians about the findings, and Wellstar can then initiate care if cancer is found.

“People that come to the hospital for other problems may also be walking around with a lung cancer they didn’t know about,” Dr. Mayfield said.

The program, which started in fall 2020, has identified a total of 148 lung cancers and 14 other types of cancer, as of October 2024.

“Now those people are getting care, and it’s quite likely those cancers would have been missed,” Dr. Mayfield said.

Wellstar is developing another incidental nodule program for the abdominal area, which could lead to the discovery of several cancers including ovarian, kidney, bladder and liver cancers.

The program aligns with the Wellstar mission of enhancing the health and well-being of every person we serve.

“It was the right thing to do for the community. If we miss these cancers, it is a broken promise to the patient,” Dr. Mayfield said.

Then, if cancer is found, Wellstar “closes the loop” by initiating treatment and connecting the patient with resources, Dr. Mayfield said.

Expert care and support at every step

From the very beginning, lung cancer patients at Wellstar are surrounded by a team of experts. Rather than go through the time-consuming process of driving to multiple appointments with different specialists, patients meet with all these physicians in one place.

The Wellstar Lung Cancer STAT Clinic, at Wellstar Cobb, Douglas, Kennestone Regional, North Fulton and Paulding medical centers, as well as the Thoracic NOW Clinic at Wellstar MCG Health Medical Center, give patients immediate access to specialists in medical oncology, radiation oncology, pulmonary medicine and thoracic surgery.

“No other health system does multidisciplinary care the way Wellstar does,” Dr. Mayfield said.

Getting multiple expert opinions from the start not only gives patients peace of mind, it speeds up treatment, too. In the United States, the average time between an abnormal scan and the beginning of treatment is 95 days, Dr. Mayfield said. The STAT Clinic reduces that time to as little as 14 days. Time-to-treatment affects long-term survival in lung cancer patients, Dr. Mayfield said—a six-week delay can reduce five-year survival by up to 13%, according to research from the Cleveland Clinic.

“Time really does matter in the treatment and diagnosis of lung cancer,” Dr. Mayfield said.

High-tech surgery options

For many patients, surgery is a crucial part of lung cancer treatment. Wellstar offers several minimally invasive options, reducing recovery time for patients.

Dr. Mayfield said more than 90% of lung cancer surgeries at Wellstar are performed using either the da Vinci Surgical System or Video Assisted Thoracic Surgery techniques (VATS).

Minimally invasive surgeries reduce pain, scarring, blood loss and infection, as well as time to recover—getting patients back to work and other routines quicker.

The da Vinci system is equipped with 3D cameras and instruments that can make very intricate, precise movements, allowing for shorter incisions and more accurate surgery. Some patients can leave the hospital as early as the next day.

For biopsies, Wellstar has completed 500 procedures using the Ion system, a robotic-assisted platform.

To prevent lung cancer and keep your lungs healthy, talk to your primary care team and follow a few tips, such as avoiding smoking and getting your exercise. Learn more about treatments on our cancer care page.

Whether you’re running a marathon or simply running errands, having healthy lungs helps you to live comfortably and do the activities you enjoy.

Lung health is an important part of overall wellness. It’s best to prevent health issues before they start, and Wellstar experts will partner with you to personalize a plan to keep your lungs healthy. 

Book an appointment online to check in with a provider about your lung health and follow these tips to breathe a little easier.

Don’t smoke or vape

If you are a smoker, keep in mind that there are both short-term and long-term benefits to quitting. One to nine months after the last cigarette, your shortness of breath should decrease. Within 10 years of quitting, a former smoker's risk of developing lung cancer is 30% to 50% below that of a person who continues to smoke.

Also, if you don’t smoke, do not pick up the habit. Nicotine is highly addictive, even more so than many other drugs including narcotic opiates, according to Wellstar Pulmonologist Dr. Hitendra Patel.

Dr. Patel said that vaping is gaining popularity, especially among younger people. However, vaping irritates a person’s airways and increases their risk of asthma.

“Nothing but air should go in and out of the lungs,” Dr. Patel said. “Any other chemical or substance, or inhalation of smoke of any kind, is going to be detrimental and harmful.”

Wellstar Primary Care Physician Dr. Jignesh Dholaria said misinformation about vaping is common.

“People have the notion that vaping is somehow safer and that it doesn’t have the same chemicals that cigarettes do,” Dr. Dholaria said. “We’re seeing a lot more harmful effects from vaping just because we don’t always know all the chemicals that are in these vapes. That has caused a lot more lung-related injuries.”

Get your exercise and sleep

While staying active is a critical component of overall wellness, it’s especially important to keep your lungs in top shape.

“As you’re breathing in and out, getting rid of carbon dioxide and inhaling more oxygen, that helps your tissues, which helps you feel better overall,” Dr. Dholaria said.

Even if it is raining—or if pollutants are especially high that day and you’re worried about lung irritation—there are ways to get your steps in. Dr. Patel recommends going to an air-conditioned shopping mall or store to get some exercise if being outside is not an option.

“Continuing to exercise to the fullest of your body’s ability is an important step of maintaining whatever lung health you have,” Dr. Patel said. “If you start with healthy lungs, staying on an exercise program and regimen is vital.”

Balance that exercise with some rest, too. Dr. Patel, who is also the medical director of the Wellstar sleep program, said being well-rested can ward off sickness, including some respiratory illnesses.

“If you don’t sleep well, that means your immune system is not going to function as well as it should,” he said.

Try breathing exercises

In addition to getting your sleep, some relaxation and breathing techniques can have benefits for both mental wellness and lung health. 

Dr. Patel recommends “4-7-8 breathing,” which involves inhaling for four seconds, holding your breath for seven seconds and then exhaling for eight seconds.

Benefits of breathing exercises may include lower stress and anxiety levels, lower blood pressure and better sleep.

Manage your asthma

If you have asthma, know your lungs and avoid the environmental triggers that cause the condition to flare up, Dr. Patel said. Common triggers include pet dander, seasonal changes, allergens like perfume and smoke inhalation. 

Asthma can also run in families, although there is often no specific reason why a person develops asthma, Dr. Patel said.

“Sometimes people underestimate how bad asthma can be,” Dr. Patel said.

If you have asthma, see your primary care physician to monitor your lung health. Pulmonologists specialize in caring for people’s lungs, and they often collaborate with primary care clinicians to create personalized plans to manage their patients’ asthma.

Ask your care team about screenings

Early detection is key in cancer treatment, but many lung cancers present in later stages, Dr. Patel said.

“In that area in the middle of the lungs and the middle of the chest, there are no pain fibers or pain sensors in there,” Dr. Patel said. “If a tumor occurs there, patients don’t know it. They don’t feel it, and it doesn’t hurt them.”

Lung cancer is sometimes found when it spreads and causes complications, Dr. Patel said.

If you are at increased risk for developing lung cancer, ask your care team about screenings. You should consider screenings if you are a current or past smoker. Visit our lung cancer screening page to learn more about if screening, which involves low-dose CT scans, could benefit you. To keep up with your lung health, find a Wellstar physician near you.

Innovative technology at Wellstar is offering patients a minimally invasive option for lung biopsies, reducing complications and helping expedite lung cancer treatment.

The Ion system is a robotic-assisted platform for performing lung biopsies. If a lung cancer screening or any other CT scan shows a suspicious nodule, providers will need to perform a biopsy to determine if the patient has lung cancer and how to proceed with care.

“Those nodules may not be cancer, but in certain situations we still need to know what it is,” said Wellstar Pulmonologist Dr. Timothy Udoji. “The Ion technology helps us biopsy those nodules to get an answer so that additional workup can be done immediately. If it is cancer, we want to catch it at an early stage.”

The system uses a three-dimensional spatial recognition technology that helps guide a catheter down the airway, deep into the lung, all the way to small nodules where biopsies can be performed. The robotic catheter maintains its shape and stability throughout the biopsy process significantly improving diagnostic yield compared to other modalities.

“The better the image and the more certainty we have of the spatial location of the catheter, the better we can avoid complications by making sure we are not too close to a blood vessel or the edge of the lung,” said Wellstar Thoracic Surgeon Dr. Daniel Fortes.

During the biopsy, providers can also use the Ion system to mark an area in the lung, making it easier to find later during surgery.

“If something is very small and hard to find in surgery, Ion can be used to mark that area with dye, or contrast, that allows us to find it in surgery,” Dr. Fortes said. “With this technology added to the surgical robotic system in the operating room, we can better identify those lesions and remove smaller portions of lung, also called segments.”

Technology to help provide peace of mind

The Ion system also has further reach than previous technologies and is able to more easily biopsy nodules in the peripheral areas of the lung. For many cancer patients, this will allow them to initiate care earlier and improve their outcomes, as well as give them peace of mind during the treatment process.

“Mental health impacts physical health. We are able to confidently biopsy and identify these nodules and that means a lot for our patients,” Dr. Udoji said. “Now, with this new technology we are able to get a biopsy done much earlier which has huge outcome implications for malignant nodules.”

At Wellstar, cancer care is tailored for each patient. In the Wellstar STAT Clinic for Lung Cancer, patients meet with multiple specialists at once to discuss their care options and create a personalized treatment plan. Specialists in the STAT Clinics, which are located at Wellstar Cobb, Douglas, Kennestone Regional, North Fulton, Paulding and West Georgia medical centers, as well as Cherokee Health Park, work with patients to determine the optimal course of treatment and will talk with patients and families about biopsy options, including the Ion system. The STAT Clinics give patients the opportunity to have their diagnoses managed right away, and literature shows that the clinics’ diagnostic and treatment model improves outcomes for patients.

The Ion system is in use at Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center, where the team has completed more than 500 procedures. This system is also now available at Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center and Wellstar Douglas Medical Center. Learn more about lung cancer care at wellstar.org/lungcancer and ask your primary care provider or pulmonologist if you have questions or are seeking care for lung health. Learn more about pulmonary care at wellstar.org/pulmonary.

Scoliosis is a sideways curve of the spine. It can develop in adults, often due to changes in the spine, such as disc degeneration, arthritis or osteoporosis. While many adults with scoliosis may not need treatment, surgery may be necessary in severe cases where the curve causes significant pain, limits movement or leads to deformity.

This type of surgery, called spinal deformity correction, is a complex procedure performed by a neurosurgeon. The goal is to realign the spine from the neck to the hips, both front-to-back and side-to-side. Dr. Ben Zussman, a Wellstar neurosurgeon at Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center, is one of the few specialists in Georgia who performs this life-changing surgery.

When scoliosis surgery is recommended

“Adult degenerative scoliosis often develops slowly, causing someone with a previously straight spine to become increasingly crooked,” Dr. Zussman explained. 
Common signs that might lead to considering surgery include:

• Uneven shoulders or waistline
• Protruding shoulder blades
• A hump on the back
• Severe low back pain or leg pain
• Leg weakness
• Stooped posture

These symptoms occur because the spine's unnatural curve forces the body to adjust, which can change posture and make it hard to stay upright. “Without a good center of gravity, your body begins to lean, which is exhausting,” says Dr. Zussman. When pain and limited mobility significantly affect daily life, scoliosis surgery can help improve movement and quality of life.

Moving forward with treatment

By age 50, Cynthia Clark’s spine had become so crooked that she could no longer stand upright. A CT scan taken just eight years earlier showed a straight spine, but degenerative scoliosis had progressed quickly, causing intense pain and difficulty walking.



Dr. Zussman offered Cynthia surgery to relieve her severe symptoms, explaining the complexity and long recovery process. Although she was nervous, Cynthia reached a point where she felt she couldn’t continue living in such pain.

Before surgery, Dr. Zussman referred her to an endocrinologist to strengthen her bones, ensuring she was physically and mentally prepared. When she was ready, Cynthia underwent the procedure.

Undergoing complex spinal surgery

Cynthia’s surgery was extensive, lasting eight hours and involving a long incision down her back. Dr. Zussman used advanced imaging techniques to guide the placement of 17 levels of screws with precision. He removed damaged discs and relieved pressure from pinched nerves. The screws were then connected by long, strong rods to realign her spine, restoring its shape and function.



Post-operative X-rays show Cynthia standing up straight. The screws, rods and spacers help to brace her skeleton internally and maintain her posture.

Recovery is ‘like a miracle’

Cynthia’s recovery was remarkable. She began walking within two days after surgery—far surpassing expectations. Her quick progress allowed her to be discharged without needing inpatient rehab, and she completed a shorter-than-usual course of outpatient therapy.

“Cynthia now walks completely straight without a cane,” said Dr. Zussman. “Even people at her grocery store notice the drastic difference and give her hugs.”

Cynthia credits Dr. Zussman and his team with giving her life back. “I’m so happy I can move and do stairs—it’s like a miracle,” she shared.

Life-changing scoliosis surgery

Wellstar’s neurosurgery team addresses complex brain and spine conditions, including adult spinal deformity. In severe cases, scoliosis correction surgery requires a dedicated team of 10 to 15 medical professionals working together to realign the spine.

“This type of surgery can be totally life-changing,” Dr. Zussman shared.

Only a few neurosurgeons in Georgia perform this extensive surgery. Wellstar offers this advanced level of scoliosis care at Wellstar Cobb Medical Center, Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center, Wellstar MCG Health Medical Center and Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center. Reach out to a location near you to schedule an appointment:

• Neurosurgery in Austell
• Neurosurgery in Marietta
• Neurosurgery in Roswell
• Orthopedics & Sports Medicine in Augusta 

Learn more about spine surgery at Wellstar.

With dedicated health resources and caring, compassionate providers, Wellstar is making primary care more accessible to people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer/questioning (LGBTQ+).

Historically, many healthcare systems have not focused on the specific needs of the LGBTQ community. 

“The LGBTQ community has been marginalized by the healthcare system,” Wellstar Primary Care Physician Dr. Gabriella Maris said. “There is a lack of providers who have adequate training to understand and treat their unique health risks.”

Wellstar believes every person should have access to safe, high-quality healthcare. At each of our primary care locations, we maintain a welcoming, non-judgmental environment to treat patients. Across Wellstar, we’re committed to providing inclusive medical services in a safe, comfortable space to make LGBTQ care more available.

Dedicated health experts for the LGBTQ community

Members of the LGBTQ community may be at a higher risk for certain medical issues.

For example, lesbian and bisexual women may be at increased risk for breast, cervical and ovarian cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. The American Psychiatric Association also shared that LGBTQ people are more likely to experience mental health concerns and use mental health services.

Treating these health concerns starts with trained providers who take a caring, compassionate approach to help patients stay healthy.

Wellstar provides primary care for the LGBTQ community, including wellness exams, chronic disease management, virtual appointments and other health screenings. We also offer special services for people who identify as LGBTQ including:

• Family planning and birth control
• Prenatal and OB/GYN care
• Pap smears for men and women
• Colposcopy and anoscopy
• Hormone therapy
• PrEP and nPEP treatment for HIV prevention
• Pediatric care

Gender-affirming care

Gender-affirming care is medical treatment that supports a patient’s gender identity when their identity differs from their sex assigned at birth. 

“Gender-affirming care has the ability to save lives,” said Wellstar Primary Care Physician Dr. Danielle Ortega. “We know that a large percentage of transgender individuals, even starting in adolescence, have either suicidal intent or attempts in the past, and we know that gender-affirming care, when appropriate, improves mental health and prevents suicide.”

Active partners in your care

Wellstar physicians provide great care to patients and our health experts are dedicated to being a true partner in your wellness journey.

“I want for patients to know that Wellstar is their medical home—for them to feel comfortable when they walk in our door and for them to know that this is going to be a clinic that is not judgmental, is truly empathic and is here to help them in whatever way we can,” Dr. Maris said. 

Our primary care team puts patients at the center of their care, presenting them with all their options and working with them to decide how to accomplish their goals.

“I get to know patients and understand what their goals are, what their hopes are, who their supports are, what their job entails, what their community is like and, specifically, what their goals are in relation to their health,” Dr. Ortega said.

Find a Wellstar primary care location near you. Learn more about diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging at Wellstar.

Quick history lesson: In the 1990s, U.S. doctors adopted the prostate-specific antigen test—or PSA—to identify prostate cancer early, when it’s more treatable. While the PSA helped more men get diagnosed, concern was raised over the risks versus benefits of biopsies, procedures and treatment. In response, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force gave a controversial recommendation against routine screening with PSA in 2012.

But with new evidence from a variety of credible studies, they changed their recommendation in 2017. The current Task Force recommendation focuses on men having a conversation with their doctors about their risk for prostate cancer and the risks and benefits of screening.

Why did the guidelines change?

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in males after skin cancer. The American Cancer Society projects that there will be more than twice as many prostate cancer cases diagnosed in men as lung cancer this year.

“The prevalence of the disease cannot be ignored,” said Dr. Jeffrey Tharp, a primary care physician and chief medicine division officer for Wellstar Medical Group. “Early-stage prostate cancer has higher survivability than prostate cancer diagnosed in later stages.”

Dr. Tharp pointed out that while guidelines have changed, so have the way doctors diagnose and treat prostate cancer. An elevated PSA does not automatically mean a cancer diagnosis. And when cancer is diagnosed, some care options have no side effects.

Read on to learn:

• Who should have a conversation with their doctor about prostate cancer screening, and when
• Who is at higher risk
• How the reason that’s holding some men back has changed
• What is a PSA and why having them at regular intervals is important
• Care options for prostate cancer

Due to renovations at Wellstar Children’s, the main lobby and parking circle are closed. The renovations are ongoing until Spring 2025. Here’s how to plan your visit while construction is underway. 

Wellstar Children’s continues to expand to meet the growing needs of the CSRA. To help improve your access to care, the Wellstar Children’s lobby is closed for renovations beginning August 29, 2024. During renovations the main entrance on Harper Street and the first floor elevators will not be accessible. The Wellstar Children’s parking circle will also be closed to all traffic.

Patient Access
For ease of access, please park in Medical Center Parking Deck 2 at 1461 Harper St. 

1. From the parking deck, enter the Wellstar MCG Health Medical Center through entrance F on Harper Street.
2. Take the F elevators to the second floor.
3. Follow signs to the Wellstar Children’s elevators to access patient floors.  
   

Pharmacy Curbside Pick-up 
Reserved parking for pharmacy pick-up will remain available.

1. Enter the Wellstar Children’s parking deck on Harper Street at the ground level.
2. Turn right. 
3. Signs designating the reserved spaces will be straight ahead along the sidewalk.

Chick-fil-A Access
Chick-fil-A will remain open and accessible during renovations. 

1. Enter Wellstar MCG Health Medical Center through the F entrance on Harper Street.
2. Follow signs for Chick-fil-A.

Blue Coat Ambassadors are always available to assist. Find a team member wearing a blue blazer to answer any questions you have.

The cancer care experts at Northwest Georgia Oncology Centers at Wellstar Cherokee Health Park are dedicated to patient-centered care that’s tailored to every patient, every time. We have expanded our services and space to invest in the health of our community in Cherokee and the surrounding areas.

Our facility now has tripled patient exam rooms and quadrupled infusion recliners to facilitate complex treatment that is requested by our cancer patients. We’ve also added support services, including an onsite compounding pharmacy and a clinical pharmacist available to help answer any questions.

Our leaders, researchers and innovators collaborate with specialists and care team members to create treatment plans for optimal clinical outcomes. 

Our services include:

• Medical oncology with partners in care Northwest Georgia Oncology Centers
• Outpatient infusion
• Pharmacy services including a compounding pharmacy for patient treatment needs, as well as on-site patient medication pick-up for oral chemotherapy
• Resources for patient education with a clinical pharmacist and nurse
• Support services including nurse navigators, dietitians, social workers and genetic counselors

Whole patient care

“At Wellstar, our patients have the support they need at every step of their cancer care journey,” said Wellstar Hematologist and Oncologist Dr. Madhurima Uppalapati. “Our team provides expert care for every aspect of the patient’s well-being and personalizes care to each patient’s needs.”

Support services include nurse navigators, who are registered nurses specially trained in cancer care who bring a highly personalized level of guidance and support to each patient and their family. Other members of our cancer care team include dietitians, social workers and genetic counselors. 

To schedule a cancer care appointment at Wellstar Cherokee Health Park, call (470) 267-0230. 

Wellstar, affiliated with Medical College of Georgia, is transitioning from the VIP Portal to Wellstar MyChart in November 2024. With MyChart you’ll be able to request prescription refills, manage your appointments, access your test results and message your care team.

We’ll help you throughout the transition process, but there are few ways you can prepare and stay proactive with your care. In this article, we’ll provide key dates to keep top-of-mind, instructions on how to create a Wellstar MyChart account, new features to explore in MyChart and answers to your questions. Check back often, as this page will be updated regularly with the latest information. Here’s what you need to know.

October 29, 2024, is the last day you can message your care team and request prescription refills in the VIP Portal. All VIP Portal functions will move to Wellstar MyChart November 2, 2024.

It is important to note that your health records in VIP Portal, such as after-visit summaries and lab tests results, will not transfer to MyChart. Instructions are provided in this article on how to download a copy of your records from the VIP Portal. You will no longer be able to download your records after April 1, 2025.

Access your new patient portal today! Sign up for a Wellstar MyChart account.

When can I create my Wellstar MyChart account?

Sign up for your MyChart account today! You can create your MyChart account at any time and patient portal functions will be activated beginning November 2, 2024.

Did the date for the transition from VIP Portal to Wellstar MyChart change?

Yes, the transition date for Wellstar MyChart has moved to November 2, 2024. If you have already created your MyChart account, great! Now you’re fully prepared for when Wellstar MyChart is available for use in November. Until then, you can continue to use your existing VIP Portal as you do today.

What is the Wellstar MyChart website address?

Visit mychart.wellstar.org. You can also learn more about MyChart at Wellstar at wellstar.org/mychart.

How do I create a Wellstar MyChart account?

1. Go to mychart.wellstar.org.
2. Click on Sign Up (I don’t have a code).
3. Follow the instructions to create your account.

If all your information does not match what is in our system, someone will reach out to you by email within 48 hours or you can call the MyChart Help Desk at (470) 644-0419 for assistance.

Are there other ways to sign up for a MyChart account?

Yes, there are several options.

• If you have an appointment scheduled with a Wellstar healthcare professional, after November 1, 2024, an activation code will be automatically sent to the email address you have on file. This email will detail the steps to activate your MyChart account and will include a link with your activation code. If you do not see an email following your visit, check your spam folder.
• If you have recently been discharged and received a copy of your written discharge information from Wellstar, this will include an activation code to create your MyChart account. Activating your account using your written discharge information will require you to enter your zip code.
• For assistance creating your account, call the MyChart Help Desk at (470) 644-0419.

Is there a MyChart app?

Yes, you can download the app in the Apple App Store or Google Play.

Can I access Wellstar MyChart in Spanish?

To view MyChart in Spanish, go to the MyChart login page and click Ver en Español in the top right corner. At this time messages from your provider are not translated into Spanish.

Am I losing any functionality I had in VIP Portal?

There are two changes to be aware of:

• Currently in the VIP Portal you can message any provider. In Wellstar MyChart you can message providers who you have had a visit with in the past two years.
• Your VIP proxies will not automatically transfer to MyChart. You will need to complete a new MyChart Proxy Form or use Proxy invites.

Will I be able to message my providers in Wellstar MyChart beginning November 2, 2024?

To message your providers, you must re-establish your relationship as their patient within MyChart. This is an automated process that occurs after you have had an in-person or virtual visit with your physician or advanced practice provider.

How do I schedule an appointment?

There are three ways to schedule an appointment:

• Call (706) 721-CARE (2273) or (800) 736-CARE (2273) to connect with a representative who can help schedule your appointment.
• Schedule your appointment in MyChart.
• Call your physician’s office directly.

How do I schedule an appointment in Wellstar MyChart?

1. Log in to your MyChart account.
2. Click on Schedule an Appointment.
3. From the list of your current providers, select the provider you’d like to see.
4. Click Schedule Now.
5. Fill in the requested information.
6. Click Send Request.

It’s after October 29, 2024, and I need a prescription refill. What should I do?

You can request prescription refills through your pharmacy.

Can I request medication refills in Wellstar MyChart for medical office visits after November 2, 2024?

Yes, you can request refills through MyChart for medications ordered after November 2, 2024. Here’s how:

1. Log in to your MyChart account.
2. Click Menu.
3. Click Medications.
4. Select the pharmacy where you’d like to have your prescription filled.
5. Select the medication to be refilled.
6. Click Request Refill.

Will my healthcare records in VIP Portal transfer to my new Wellstar MyChart account?

Your healthcare records will not transfer from VIP Portal to MyChart. Here’s how to download your records.

1. Log in to your VIP Portal account.
2. Select Open My Record > Care Summaries.
3. Here you will find your after-visit summaries, lab test results and other records.
4. Select Download next to each document to save a copy to your electronic device.
5. If you would like to print a copy for your personal records, select Print.

Wellstar reminds you to store your personal records and information in a safe, secure place.

How will the transition to Wellstar MyChart affect my VIP Portal access to my medical records?

You will have access to all your healthcare records prior to November 2, 2024, in the VIP Portal until April 1, 2025. In accordance with HIPAA laws (Code of Federal Regulation 164) and Georgia Statuses, your official medical records are stored within the Wellstar, affiliated with Medical College of Georgia, system. You have the right to access and obtain copies of your protected health information. To request your official medical records at any time, contact our Health Information Management Services Department at (706) 721-2948 or visit wellstar.org/request-medical-records for more information.

What happens to my VIP Portal healthcare records after April 1, 2025?

VIP Portal records will be available upon request after April 1, 2025. Click here to request your records.

When will I begin to see my healthcare records from Wellstar in MyChart?

Once you have created your account, you will begin to see your after-visit summaries, lab tests results and more in MyChart for Wellstar provider visits November 2, 2024, and later. These will include hospital and medical office visits.

What test results show in Wellstar MyChart?

You will be able to see your lab test results, mammogram results and chronic disease information in your MyChart account.

What test results do not show in MyChart?

HIV and genetic testing will not be in Wellstar MyChart. You can request those records here.

Will I have new functionality in Wellstar MyChart that I do not have in VIP Portal?

Yes, you will gain new functionality in MyChart. Some of the many features include:

• Menu and search: MyChart will allow you to search for features using the Your Menu bar located on the top left of your screen.
• Request records: MyChart has a feature called Share My Record that allows patients to request their medical records.
• Schedule appointments: You can schedule appointments through MyChart without having to call your healthcare professional’s office.
• Mammograms: You can schedule and view your mammogram report via MyChart. Your physician must first place an electronic order.
• Proxy Access:
  

o   You can request adult proxy access for a family member or caregiver via your MyChart by searching the Sharing Hub, selecting Manage Friend and Family
Access and following the prompts. 

o   If you have power of attorney rights for an adult patient, you must provide a copy of your legal documents along with a completed Adult Proxy Form to gain
MyChart proxy access. (Adulto Delegado Formulario en Español)

o   For children 17 years old or younger, parents/legal guardians can be granted full access to their child’s MyChart account by completing a Child Proxy Form.
(Formulario Para Representante de Menor en Español)

o   When a patient turns 18 the parent/legal guardian’s proxy access will automatically be revoked because the patient is now a legal adult.

o   Teen Access allows teens age 12 to 17 to have full access to their own MyChart account. Teens can invite family or legal guardians to have full proxy access to
their account by using the adult proxy feature mentioned above.

• Billing: 
  

o You can view and pay your bill through Wellstar MyChart beginning November 2, 2024.

o You will now see cost estimates for your medical care via MyChart for dates of service November 2, 2024, and forward.

o You will have the ability to set up a payment plan in MyChart.

Who do I call if I have questions related to a patient bill I received for visits that occurred before November 2, 2024?

If you have questions about your bill, payment plan or want to make a payment, contact (888) 531-0397 or visit the Patient Bill Portal. If you have questions about extended payment plans or Access One, contact (888) 458-6272.

Who do I call if I have questions related to a patient bill that I received from Anesthesiology Associates for visits that occurred before November 2, 2024?

Please call (866) 700-2989.

Who do I call if I have questions related to a patient bill that I received from Emergency Physicians for visits that occurred before November 2, 2024?

Contact (844) 703-5532.

Who do I call if I have questions related to a patient bill in collections for visits that occurred before November 2, 2024?

• Physician bill: If you have a question related to a bill in collections or have received a call from NRS, call (866) 591-7932.
• Hospital bill:
  o If you have a question related to a bill in collections or have received a call from NRS and the first letter of your last name begins with A through K, call (866) 591-7932.
  o If you have a question related to a bill in collections or have received a call from BCA and the first letter of your last begins with L through Z, call (305) 909-2200.
  o If you have a question related to a bill in collections and have received a call from RSI, call (706) 222-4660.
  o If you are a South Carolina resident and you have a bill in collections, call (706) 222-4660.

Who do I call if I have questions about my financial assistance application for visits that occurred before November 2, 2024?

Call (706) 721-1301.

Will I still call the VIP Portal Help Desk for my VIP Portal questions after October 29, 2024?

No, you will call the MyChart Help Desk at (470) 644-0419. There will be a patient portal specialist available at this number to assist with any of your patient portal questions.

I still have questions. Who can I contact for more information?

We’re here to help. You can email us at [email protected], call us at (470) 644-0419 or send a fax to (770) 999-2306. The patient portal help desk hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5 PM.

Hair loss can be a difficult side effect to navigate for people with cancer. It affects a person both emotionally and mentally as they deal with a change to their outward appearance while undergoing a serious health battle.

“Hair loss during chemotherapy can cause patients to feel vulnerable and self-conscious,” says Andrea Rhoden, a breast oncology nurse navigator at Wellstar Georgia Cancer Center.

Emotional well-being is an important factor to your physical health, as poor emotional health can lead to higher blood pressure, a weakened immune system and other health issues that can become quite serious for patients with a cancer diagnosis.

Andrea saw a need for a way to prevent hair loss and immediately thought of cooling caps.

Cold scalp cooling caps are caps patients wear before and after chemotherapy that can help prevent hair loss by reducing the damage that chemotherapy causes to hair follicles. They work by cooling the blood vessels in the scalp and reducing blood flow to hair follicles, which restricts the amount of chemotherapy medication that enters hair follicle cells.

While this device cannot reduce hair loss by 100% for all patients, patients can see a hair loss reduction of about 50% when using a cooling cap throughout their treatment journey.

These devices can be costly, so Andrea and her collaborator, Dr. Alicia Arnold, submitted their program, Cooler Heads for Helping Hair Loss During Chemotherapy, for funding from Unite in the Fight Against Cancer 2023.

Unite in the Fight Against Cancer is a 1-mile walk that celebrates and honors all who have been affected by the disease, while raising funds for patient-centered programs.

Andrea and Dr. Arnold’s program received funding from Unite 2023, along with six other programs, covering the costs for two machines and the supplies needed to use them.

“I’m so excited for this opportunity,” Andrea said.

To learn more about this program, follow us on social media to be kept up-to-date on it and other programs funded by Unite in the Fight Against Cancer, which is held annually.

Wellstar has new urgent care centers in Evans, Grovetown and South Augusta to serve our community’s growing healthcare needs. These locations provide convenient care for minor emergencies, illnesses and injuries.

Walk-ins are always welcome, but you also have the option to book a visit online at the time that works best for you. Booking online can help reduce your wait time once you arrive.

Our new Wellstar Urgent Care locations:

307 W Robinson Ave | Grovetown, GA 30813
(706) 760-7607
Open seven days a week, 8 AM to 7 PM
Urgent Care Check-In at this location

3324 Peach Orchard Road, Suite B | Augusta, GA 30906
(706) 760-7607
Open seven days a week, 8 AM to 7 PM
Urgent Care Check-In at this location

4244 Washington Road, Suite 1 | Evans, GA 30809
(706) 760-7607
Open seven days a week, 8 AM to 7 PM
Urgent Care Check-In at this location 

Wellstar Urgent Care provides:

• Care for minor illnesses and injuries, such as coughs, colds, sprains and broken bones
• Treatment for medical issues like bites, burns and cuts
• Flu care
• Rapid COVID-19 testing for all ages
• Labs and X-rays
• Sports physicals
• Worker’s compensation services

Find an urgent care location near you.

Answering your questions about paperless statements

Are all patients/accounts transitioned to paperless billing statements?

Why is Wellstar automatically opting everyone in instead of giving them the choice?

I opted in for paperless statements but am not being notified my statement is ready. Why?

I have opted in for paperless billing, but I'm still receiving paper statements.

How can I opt out of paperless statements?

Website

1. Log in to your Wellstar MyChart account. 
2. Select Menu > Billing Summary > Cancel Paperless Billing.
3. Click Cancel Paperless.
4. On the confirmation page, click Receive Paper Statements.

App

1. Log in to your Wellstar MyChart account.
2. Tap the Menu > Billing Summary > Cancel Paperless Billing.
3. Tap Cancel Paperless.
4. On the confirmation page, tap Cancel Paperless. 

Ankle injuries

Achilles injuries are some of the most common injuries I treat. Often, they result from improper stretching and warm-up prior to physical activity. When the Achilles is torn, surgical repair is often, but not always, necessary. Ankle sprains are also very common and usually much less severe than Achilles tears. These injuries typically result from rolling your ankle awkwardly when jumping or running. Rest, ice, elevation and compression with a bandage or brace is an effective treatment.

To help prevent these injuries, focus on a good stretching routine for at least 10 to 15 minutes before engaging in physical activity. Proper shoes can also help, and be mindful of where you step.  

Knee injuries

Meniscal tears are one of the more common knee injuries. The meniscus is a circular disc-like cartilage located in the knee. When a twisting or torsional injury occurs, the meniscus can get torn. This can produce catching or locking type symptoms and may require surgical treatment. Injuries to the patellar tendon or quadriceps tendon are also somewhat common and usually result from a failure to stretch and warm up appropriately. Whenever the patellar or quadriceps tendon is torn, surgery is almost always required.  

Focus again on stretching prior to activity. When the activity is relatively strenuous, such as pickleball, tennis or basketball, then you should build up a quadriceps strengthening program and core strengthening prior to engaging in activity.

Shoulder injuries

Rotator cuff injuries are very common and can range from strains to complete tears. Injuries occur when people fall on an outstretched hand, like diving for a ball, or through other twisting motions. When the rotator cuff is strained but not torn, physical therapy will usually suffice. However, when torn, surgical treatment may be necessary.  

The best way to prevent shoulder injuries is to focus on stretching prior to activity and to engage in a strengthening program.  

I encourage you to engage in physical activity, but attention to stretching, strengthening and focusing on your environment can help you avoid a variety of orthopedic injuries.  

Learn more about orthopedic care at Wellstar at wellstar.org/ortho.

Dr. D. Hodari Brooks, Wellstar orthopedic surgeon

Your late teens, 20s & 30s
Striving for top health performance
You may feel on top of your game—even unbeatable—In your 20s and 30s. You may be tempted to think, “Why even bother with a physical?” Yet this is training season for building up lifelong healthy habits.

Establish your care coach: In your late teens to early 20s, transition from your pediatrician and establish yourself with a primary care physician, nurse practitioner or physician assistant by scheduling a physical.

“When young men show up for preventive care, we talk about the future,” said Dr. Dean Seehusen, chair of Family & Community Medicine at Wellstar MCG Health Medical Center in Augusta. “Then we talk about what that’s going to take habit-wise. What you can do in your 60s and 70s is based on what you’re doing in your 20s, 30s and 40s.”

Stay on top of your stats: The information from your annual exam can help you stay on track to live out your vision, measured in part by important health stats—like glucose and cholesterol levels, body mass index and blood pressure. Staying on top of your trending numbers can help prevent heart disease, stroke and diabetes down the road.

It’s also a good time to talk about your vaccine status, such as tetanus (needed every 10 years) and HPV. To protect yourself and your partner, it’s important to test for human papillomavirus. Also known as HPV, it’s the most common sexually transmitted infection and can cause several types of cancer for men and women, even though you likely won’t have symptoms. You may have already received this vaccine in your teens, but if you haven’t yet, it’s recommended through the age of 26.

Men may also consider self-screening for testicular cancer through self-exams during these earlier healthcare years, according to John Aaron III, a physician assistant who cares for patients at Wellstar Family Medicine in Alpharetta.

Look for weaknesses: Make your health team aware of your family medical history, from heart disease and stroke to cancer. This will help them create a personalized health plan for you. You may need screenings or tests for certain health conditions at an earlier age than the average population.

Find a Men’s Health care team near you, including the Wellstar KSU Health Center for Kennesaw State University for students.

From adolescence through adulthood, Wellstar Women’s Health cares for women at every stage of life and encourages patients to stay up to date on essential screenings.

Building a foundation in your 20s

You may feel invincible in your 20s, but it’s important to start healthy, lifelong habits now. Schedule an annual physical exam with your primary care team so they can check important indicators of health over time, like blood pressure, glucose and cholesterol levels. Taking charge of your health early on lays the groundwork for a lifetime of well-being.

Find a women’s health clinician near you.

Reproductive health in your 20s and 30s

By age 21, women should get an annual pelvic exam and Pap smear with an OB/GYN. Depending on your results, you may not need another Pap smear for three years. You may also want to test for human papillomavirus, or HPV. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection and can cause several types of cancer, even though you may not have any symptoms. Your OB/GYN may also recommend monthly self-breast exams.

Be attentive in your 40s

Adding a yearly mammogram at this stage (or sooner, if advised) is important. You can schedule your mammogram through either an OB/GYN or a primary care clinician. Modern mammography programs can reduce breast cancer mortality by more than 40%. Wellstar has several mammography locations and offers 3D mammograms, which can help detect breast cancer at early stages when it’s easier to treat.

Starting at age 45, you should talk to your primary care team about a screening test for colon cancer. Colonoscopies are the most common procedure to detect precancerous polyps and should be repeated every 10 years or sooner, depending on your personal and family history.

Maintain your health and wellness in your 50s and beyond

In your 50s, it’s important to maintain your relationship with your care team. Ask if you need a heart screening (coronary artery calcium scoring). Individuals with a history of smoking should inquire about lung cancer screenings. Since hormone changes can lead to osteoporosis, post-menopausal women should also consider a bone mineral density test.

Learn more about women’s health services at Wellstar.

The road to recovery after a stroke can be long and difficult. By following exercise recommendations from Wellstar’s rehabilitation care team, you can take an active role in the process and help shorten your journey.

According to the National Institutes of Health, falling can lead to delays in recovery for stroke survivors. Muscle stiffness and loss of balance are two common issues that contribute to increased fall risks. The expert providers at Wellstar work with patients and family members to develop individualized care plans that improve steadiness and flexibility. For added benefit, they also recommend you do the following exercises on your own.

Standing up and sitting down
Begin by sitting on a chair with a firm seat. Stand up fully and then slowly take a seat. Repeat as many times as you can tolerate initially. If necessary, use your hands to push into the standing position. Gradually progress to standing without the added assistance and completing more repetitions.

Step-ups
Begin by holding on to a stair rail. Step up onto the first step and then back down to the floor. Repeat as many times as you can tolerate initially. Step up with your stronger leg and lead with the weaker leg going down. Gradually progress to not holding on to the rail and increasing the number of repetitions.

Calf raises
Using a chair or countertop for balance, raise up onto your toes, lifting your heels completely off the floor. Slowly lower your heels back to the floor. Repeat as many times as you can tolerate initially. Gradually progress to not holding on and completing more repetitions.

Marching in place
Begin using a chair or countertop for balance and march in place for as many seconds as you can tolerate initially. Gradually progress to not holding on and marching in place for longer periods of time.

Shoulder flexion
Start with your arms at your side. With your palms facing each other, raise your arms in front of you as far as you can. Return to the starting position, then repeat.

Shoulder extension
Start with your arms at your side. With your palms facing each other, raise your arms behind you as far as you can. Return to the starting position, then repeat.

Shoulder abduction/adduction (lateral shoulder arm raises)
Extend your arms out to the side. Slowly raise your arms above your head. Return to the starting position, then repeat.

Elbow extension and flexion
Start with your arms at your sides, with your palms facing forward. Bend at your elbow so that your palm touches your shoulder. Return to the starting position, then repeat.

Wrist extension and flexion
Place your arms on a supported surface such as a table or desk, leaving your wrists free to move. Turn your palms up toward the ceiling and bend your wrists up and down.

Finger flexing and extending
Place your forearms on a surface such as a table or your lap with your palms facing up. Make a tight fist then open your hand and extend your fingers out until they are straight.

Get the most out of your exercise regimen

Establishing a regular exercise routine outside of your scheduled therapy appointments is important for your recovery. Perhaps equally important is completing the routine in a safe manner to avoid falling and to maximize your results. The experts at Wellstar suggest following these tips to maintain your safety.

• Dress comfortably. Your clothes should not limit your movements. Wear a hospital gown, pajamas or athletic clothing.
• Move slowly through all the movements.
• Do not hold your breath while doing any of these exercises. Breathe deeply. Count out loud during the exercises to keep your breaths evenly paced and remind you to breathe.
• Try to do the exercises while standing or sitting at the edge of your bed. If you do them this way, make sure another adult is around. This will help to make sure you are safe and reduce your risk of falling.
• Stop any exercise that causes you pain or discomfort and tell your doctor, occupational or physical therapist. Continue to do the other exercises that do not cause pain.

 If you have any questions, talk with your doctor, physical therapist or occupational therapist. Learn more about the expert care from Wellstar’s inpatient rehabilitation program.

For more information on Wellstar Roosevelt’s specialty rehabilitation services, visit rooseveltrecovery.com.

If you’ve had a stroke, you don’t have to replace flavorful cuisine with bland foods on your journey to recovery.

There are easy, delicious meal options that follow American Heart Association nutrition guidelines for lowering your risk of another stroke. More fiber, whole grains, fruit, vegetables and lean protein, with less trans fat, saturated fat, sodium and sugar are key to supporting your recovery efforts. Rehabilitation care teams and dietitians at Wellstar recommend keeping meals and snacks interesting with variety and new recipes like these.

Coconut Truffles satisfy your sweet tooth without any added sugar.

Ingredients:

12 medjool dates, pitted
2 tablespoons water
4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup puffed brown rice
½ cup shredded unsweetened dried coconut

Directions:

1. Using a blender or food processor, puree dates and water until a sticky paste forms.
2. Add cocoa powder and pulse until a solid dough forms.
3. Stir in puffed brown rice.
4. Using a small scoop, form mixture into 14 tablespoon size balls.
5. Roll each ball in the shredded coconut for a light coating.
6. Refrigerate for one hour.
7. Enjoy! 

Southwestern-Style Breakfast Casserole is a great way to start your morning.

Ingredients:

6 slices hearty whole-grain bread, cut into cubes
1 10-ounce package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and liquid squeezed out
1 7-ounce jar roasted red peppers, drained and chopped (or 1 red bell pepper, roasted and chopped)
1 ½ cups (6 ounces) Mexican-style cheese
3 cups non-fat milk
8 ounces egg substitute
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt

Directions:

1. Coat a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Layer the bread in the bottom of the baking dish.
3. Sprinkle evenly with the spinach, red peppers and cheese into baking dish.
4. Combine the non-fat milk, egg substitute, garlic powder, cumin, black pepper and salt, then pour into baking dish.
5. Cover and refrigerate at least four hours or overnight.
6. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
7. Bake, uncovered, for 45 minutes or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

For more heart-healthy recipes, visit American Heart Association Recipes.

To learn more about how you can partner with Wellstar rehabilitation care teams to reduce your risk of another stroke, visit https://www.wellstar.org/medical-services/treatments-procedures/rehabilitation-services/neuro-rehabilitation..

When someone has a stroke, it’s crucial that they get treatment right away. 

If you think you or someone else is having a stroke, call 911 immediately. Ambulance crews can start treatment on the way to the hospital, speeding up care and saving brainpower. 

“Many people think that they can sleep it off, or that they can go to bed and they'll be better in the morning,” said Dr. Rishi Gupta, Wellstar director of stroke care. “If you have a loss of sensation, you cannot move your arm or your leg, you have trouble speaking or you have trouble with your vision, the faster you get to the emergency room, the more likely we are to reverse your disability.” 

Learn the warning signs of a stroke, and if you notice any of these in yourself or someone else, BE FAST. 

• Balance—One sign is a sudden loss of balance or coordination. This can also appear as a sudden, severe headache or dizziness.
• Eyes—Blurred vision, double vision or loss of vision can be symptoms of a stroke. If you think someone else may be having a stroke, ask if they are having trouble seeing out of one or both eyes.
• Face—One side of the face may be drooping or feeling numb. Ask the person to smile and see if it appears lopsided or uneven.
• Arms—Look for sudden arm weakness or numbness. Check if the person can lift both arms without one drifting downward.
• Speech—Check for slurred speech or difficulty speaking. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence to determine if they are having trouble talking.
• Time—The more treatment is delayed, the more the brain is damaged. Don’t wait to seek care. If you notice any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately.

Reduce your risk of a stroke by living a healthy lifestyle. Your Wellstar care team can partner with you in creating a treatment plan to stay in good health. To learn more about brain, spine and nerve health services at Wellstar, visit our neuro care page or call (770) 956-STAR (7827). 

Wellstar has three new urgent care centers in Austell, Rome and Woodstock to serve our community’s growing healthcare needs. These locations provide convenient care for minor emergencies, illnesses and injuries.

Walk-ins are always welcome, but you also have the option to book a visit online at the time that works best for you. Booking online can help reduce your wait time once you arrive.

Our three new Wellstar Urgent Care locations:

1025 East-West Connector
Austell, GA 30106
(678) 273-3071
Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 8 PM; Saturday - Sunday, 8 AM - 4 PM
Urgent Care Check-In at this location

1314 Turner McCall Blvd.
Rome, GA 30161
(706) 728-3240
Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 8 PM; Saturday - Sunday, 8 AM - 4 PM
Urgent Care Check-In at this location

4477 Towne Lake Parkway
Woodstock, GA 30189
(770) 249-5620
Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 8 PM; Saturday - Sunday, 8 AM - 4 PM
Urgent Care Check-In at this location

In addition to the three new locations, Wellstar Urgent Care in Kennesaw has relocated to a larger space only a mile from its previous location. Visit us at:

3980 Jiles Road
Kennesaw, GA 30144
(770) 426-5665
Seven days a week, 8 AM to 7:30 PM
Urgent Care Check-In at this location

Wellstar Urgent Care provides:

• Care for minor illnesses and injuries, such as coughs, colds, sprains and broken bones
• Treatment for medical issues like bites, burns and cuts
• Flu care
• Rapid COVID-19 testing for all ages
• Labs and X-rays
• Sports physicals
• Worker’s compensation services

Find an urgent care location near you.

Your body supports you in everything you do, from everyday activities like grocery shopping to milestones and memories with friends and family. 

But while you may make sure you eat healthy, get your exercise and see your doctor to keep up with your physical health, it’s important to check in on your mental health, too. 

Wellstar offers a full range of behavioral health services close to home in convenient locations, so you can feel your best both physically and mentally.

Meeting you where you are

If you’re dealing with feelings of anxiety and depression, you may turn to your primary care physician or another clinician for help. Wellstar is removing barriers to behavioral healthcare by integrating those services into many of our locations. 

On-site behavioral health clinicians work at many of our primary care and specialty locations, making it a little easier to take that first step in improving your mental health. Wellstar also provides access to on-site and virtual behavioral health specialists in hospital emergency departments and on the medical floors.

“We know that patients are already struggling with stigma, and sometimes it takes a lot for a patient to come into care with a behavioral health professional, and we wanted to remove that stigma,” said Dr. Ryan Breshears, chief behavioral health officer at Wellstar.

About 1 in 3 patients with a physical health condition also could benefit from some form of mental health support, Dr. Breshears said. Wellstar clinicians work together across specialties to ensure each patient receives “whole person care”—addressing both their mental and physical well-being.

“When you address the mental health components that an individual is dealing with, you’re going to improve the physical outcomes,” Dr. Breshears said. “In the same way, if you address the physical health outcomes, you’re probably going to provide care that improves the mental health outcomes as well.”

Wellstar Psychologist Dr. Shawn Coyne works with cardiovascular patients to provide that whole person care to patients like John Petrick and his daughter Janin as they adjust to heart diagnoses. 

Cardiovascular health and behavioral health are closely tied, Dr. Coyne said—if someone is depressed, they are twice as likely to have a heart health issue or twice as likely to experience a second cardiovascular event. Heart patients are also three times as likely to be depressed as the general population.

In addition to cardiovascular behavioral medicine, Wellstar also offers several other specialized programs to assist patients with the mental and emotional challenges of a medical condition: 

• Metabolic behavioral medicine, for patients with metabolic conditions or who have received bariatric surgery
• Psycho-gastroenterology to provide support to gastrointestinal patients
• Psychosocial oncology to help patients adjust to cancer treatment
• Somatic symptom disorders for people experiencing unexplained physical symptoms that may be caused or impacted by stress

With our PeopleCare approach, Wellstar tailors care to each patient, taking the time to get to know their needs and create a customized care plan.

“You as the patient are part of the treatment team,” Dr. Coyne said. “You are involved, you can participate, you give feedback, you engage and we get a better end product when we work as a strong team.”

To learn more about outpatient behavioral health services, call (770) 644-1570.

Compassionate inpatient care

If you or a loved one requires immediate care for a behavioral health condition, our inpatient behavioral health units provide 24-hour care for adults ages 18 and older.

Inpatient behavioral health services include round-the-clock monitoring, medication management, individual and group therapy, and educational resources for both the patient and their family.

If you have questions, you can reach our Behavioral Health Assessment & Resource Center anytime at (470) 732-3789. However, in the case of an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Learn more about behavioral health services at Wellstar.

Marietta, Ga. (May 1, 2024) – Wellstar Health System has selected John Hatfield as Executive Vice President and Chief External Affairs Officer. He will lead the nonprofit community health system’s Marketing, Communications, Government Relations, Community Development and Foundation teams in a new integrated group called External Affairs.

“We serve Georgia communities in a challenging, rapidly changing environment for healthcare. It is increasingly vital that we engage effectively with our stakeholders, including policymakers, civic and community leaders, and the media. I am confident we found the right individual to lead this new group,” said Candice L. Saunders, President and CEO of Wellstar.

Through a 30-year career in public affairs, John has held senior executive positions with large corporations, public relations agencies, political campaigns and elected officials. Most recently, John served as Vice President of Corporate Communications at Norfolk Southern Corporation, where he was responsible for brand strategy, reputation management, strategic communications, community affairs and corporate giving, including the Norfolk Southern Foundation. He previously worked in the electric utility industry, where he built strong advocacy and local community engagement programs.

John and his teams will work collaboratively with donors, patients, families, media, legislators and community partners to raise awareness and build support for Wellstar’s vision and efforts to transform healthcare.

Before beginning his professional career, John received his bachelor’s degree in politics from Princeton University. He lives in Buckhead with his wife and daughter.

While strokes have become relatively common—more than 795,000 people in the United States have a stroke each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—many risk factors for stroke can be managed in partnership with your healthcare team.

Manage your risk factors

Factors that can increase your risk of experiencing a stroke include:

High blood pressure

Hypertension, or elevated blood pressure, increases the risk of a stroke. Stay up to date on your annual physicals to know your blood pressure levels, and if you have hypertension, talk to your clinician about managing it. “High blood pressure is the most modifiable risk factor, meaning it’s the one that is most treatable and has the most impact on one’s risk,” said Wellstar Neurologist Dr. Ashis Tayal. “It is vastly underdiagnosed and when it is treated, it’s often undertreated.”

High cholesterol

Cholesterol can build up and lead to clotting in the blood, which can cause a stroke if the clot travels and blocks blood flow to the brain. Your primary care clinician can help you monitor your cholesterol with a blood test and manage levels with medications or lifestyle changes.

Diabetes

People with diabetes are at increased risk of experiencing a stroke. Talk to your care team about diabetes screenings. If you are diabetic, discuss managing the condition with your clinician.

Smoking

Smoking can increase your risk of a stroke, so if you are a smoker, it is beneficial to quit. “Cigarettes accelerate atherosclerosis, or clogging in the arteries, and cause inflammation in blood vessels that then increases people’s risk of stroke and heart attack,” Dr. Tayal said.

Atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation, a heart arrhythmia, can cause clots that then travel to the brain, leading to a stroke, according to Dr. Tayal. If you have atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib, partner with your healthcare team to manage the condition.

Other risk factors

While many of these risk factors can be controlled through medication or lifestyle changes in collaboration with a clinician, other risk factors for stroke can be out of your control. People of any age can experience a stroke, but stroke risk increases with age.

The risk of having a first stroke is nearly twice as high for Black adults as for white adults, and Black adults and Pacific Islander adults have the highest rates of death from stroke, according to the CDC. Hypertension is more common in Black patients, according to Dr. Tayal. People in rural communities may also experience higher rates of stroke due to limited access to healthcare and nutritious foods, he added.

To help lower stroke rates in our communities, Wellstar Community Health will distribute about 75 blood pressure cuffs in 2025 and educate community members about stroke risk and blood pressure monitoring at Wellstar Mobile Markets. The team will identify and distribute blood pressure home monitors to those coming to the markets who are diagnosed with high blood pressure, on blood pressure medication and do not have a home monitor.

Live to the Beat. Powered by Wellstar. is a pilot program to help community members at two East Point churches take charge of their cardiovascular health. Through the program, participants will meet monthly with a Wellstar Community Health community health worker to have their blood pressure checked and discuss ways to keep their heart healthy, such as proper nutrition, exercise and caring for mental health.

How to recognize a stroke

Learn the warning signs of a stroke, and if you notice any of these in yourself or someone else, BE FAST and call 911 right away.

Balance

Look for a sudden loss of balance or coordination. This can also appear as a sudden, severe headache or dizziness.

Eyes

Blurred vision, double vision or loss of vision can be signs of a stroke. If you think someone else may be having a stroke, ask if they are having trouble seeing out of one or both eyes.

Face

One side of the face may be feeling numb or appear to be drooping. Ask the person to smile and see if it appears uneven.

Arms

Check for sudden arm weakness or numbness. See if the person can lift both arms without one drifting downward.

Speech

Watch out for slurred speech or difficulty speaking. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence to find out if they are having trouble talking.

Time

Don’t wait to seek care. If you notice any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately. The more treatment is delayed, the more the brain is damaged.

Learn more about stroke care at Wellstar.

When the weather starts to warm up, many people start getting ready for the spring season. Along with cleaning and decluttering your home, you should also spruce up the space you live in every day—your body.

When you prioritize your well-being and do the proper up-keep for your health, it may help you stay ahead of potential medical issues.

To feel your best this spring and beyond, we’re sharing our top tips to keep you healthy.

Check for a clean bill of health

Setting our clocks forward can also be your reminder to set up a visit with your primary care provider.

“People should definitely add a wellness exam to their spring-cleaning checklist, regardless of age. Routine preventative care every year is very important,” said Wellstar Primary Care Physician Dr. Nayab Dhanani.

During a wellness exam, your provider will check your Foundational 4 numbers—body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

From there, your provider can help create a screening plan to help keep you ahead of chronic conditions or serious diseases. Recommended screenings may vary depending on your family history, gender and age, as well as your provider's recommendations.

“The importance of screenings is really to be proactive instead of reactive,” said Wellstar Primary Care Physician Dr. Facia Dew. “It’s better to know a person’s risk factors so we can screen accordingly. Our goal is to meet their unique medical needs and help them live a healthy life.”

Be sure to bring up any other medical concerns, health questions or wellness goals at the appointment. Wellstar providers are partners in your care, committed to keeping you feeling your best physically, mentally and emotionally.

Stay ahead of health concerns

It can be easy to put your own health on the backburner as life gets busy. This spring, make a commitment to yourself to get the essential screenings you need.

For women, screenings like pelvic exams, Pap smears and mammograms can help catch cancer, sexually transmitted diseases and other issues. These important physical and gynecological health exams can help you stay ahead of potential medical concerns, such as breast cancer, cervical cancer and ovarian cancer.

Along with a routine physical to stay in top shape, men can benefit from a prostate-specific antigen test. Having this simple blood test done can help catch prostate cancer in its early stages, often when it is more treatable. Men who are 50 or older should start getting screened for prostate cancer. Those at higher risk—including Black men and those who have had a close relative diagnosed with prostate cancer—may start screenings even sooner.

Talking about colon health can feel a little uncomfortable, but getting screened could save your life. Starting at age 45, everyone should get a colonoscopy. Those with a higher risk or family history of colorectal cancer may need to start screening even sooner. Learn more about the importance of colon screenings.

Freshen up your mindset

For people who experience seasonal depression during the fall and winter months, spring’s longer hours of light may bring a renewed sense of hope. Still, lingering feelings of sadness or other difficult emotions could be more than just the “winter blues.”

“We have a screening test called PHQ-2, which is used to screen for depression,” Dr. Dhanani explained. “Patients typically have to answer two questions, and it is a preliminary screening to see if you have any signs or symptoms of depression.”

“Plenty of times, patients don’t even know they have depression. Often, a person may have had the condition for a while and it could be untreated,” Dr. Dhanani said.

If you feel overwhelmed and need support, we’re here for you. Reach out to your provider or one of our behavioral health specialists for help.

Looking for more ways to stay well? Learn about screenings to help keep you healthy.

This article was originally published on Atlanta Business Chronicle on April 12, 2024.

Orthopedic care has evolved from injury treatment and corrective surgery into a critical component of modern healthcare. As primary care remains foundational in managing overall health, the demand for orthopedic services has surged, reflecting changing lifestyles, demographics and expectations. In any given year, 12% to 14% of the adult population will visit their physician for back pain, according to the United States Bone and Joint Initiative (USBJI).

Against this backdrop of widespread musculoskeletal issues, Wellstar recently convened with the Atlanta Business Chronicle for a panel discussion to delve into the changing landscape of orthopedic care. This insightful forum explored key trends, challenges and innovations shaping the field, with leading healthcare professionals offering valuable perspectives. These discussions unraveled the complexities of orthopedic care, ranging from preventive strategies to cutting-edge treatments. Among the panelists was Steve Quehl, a former college football player for Notre Dame, who started as a tight end before transitioning to a center. Other panelists were Dr. Hodari Brooks, orthopedic surgeon, Wellstar Health System; Dr. Joseph Burns, chief musculoskeletal officer, Wellstar Health System; Dr. Timothy Oswald, pediatric orthopedic surgeon, Wellstar Pediatric Orthopedics. Moderator was David Rubinger, market president and publisher, Atlanta Business Chronicle.

The rise of orthopedics and interventions

David Rubinger:  There’s an uptick in the demand for orthopedic services and these specialists have become increasingly essential to healthcare. What societal changes drive this heightened need for specialized ortho care?

Dr. Joseph Burns: We’re facing an aging population alongside a growing desire for an active, pain-free lifestyle. In the past, individuals had to endure their limitations and pain for life. Today, people have more options. Technology, techniques and training advancements now provide surgical alternatives that significantly enhance quality of life well beyond middle age. 

Wellstar conducts numerous community campaigns through various channels, including community events, the media and in our offices and hospitals, highlighting the value of maintaining health and establishing a relationship with a primary care physician.

Dr. Hodari Brooks: Societal changes for both our youth as well as adults have resulted in the increased need for orthopedic care. Physical activity has decreased, with fewer kids participating in physical education. This leads to more injuries related to obesity and lack of activity. The need for joint replacements is soaring, driven by both baby boomers aging and younger individuals seeking treatment earlier. Half of my practice is caring for patients under 55, a shift from when people would wait years for treatment. Now, we prioritize improving quality of life sooner rather than later.

Patients, including those seeking joint replacements, are opting for earlier interventions. They are less inclined to wait for treatment, indicating a shift within the healthcare system towards promptly addressing patient needs.

Rubinger: What new injury trends are emerging in sports due to changing physical activity patterns, especially with the rise of extreme sports and diverse workout routines?

Dr. Burns: The rise in overuse injuries among our younger population is disheartening. Young athletes don’t diversify their sports as they once did, leading to year-round specialization and an increased risk of injury. This relentless pursuit of success often comes at the cost of rest and diversity in physical activities.

We’re also encountering complex medical issues that require specialized treatment, reflecting both advancements in medical care and the aging population’s evolving healthcare needs. Conditions once considered untreatable are now within our reach, marking a significant shift in the scope of orthopedic care over the years.

Rubinger: Dr. Oswald, as a pediatric orthopedic specialist, have you frequently observed the concept of subspecialization and the decline in diversification among young athletes?

Dr. Timothy Oswald: It’s a significant area of concern for us, and we’re conducting more research. Recent studies have highlighted the insufficient breaks and rest periods given to children, as well as the trend of starting high-level athletics too young, which aligns with the issue of subspecialization. Kids are not miniature adults. Their orthopedic stresses differ due to growth plates and differing stress responses.

We’re educating the community, including coaches and parents, about the importance of rest periods during training through channels like social media. We aim to implement better training methods so young athletes can continue playing into their college years, as we’re noticing a concerning trend where many high-level athletes quit sports as early as eighth grade.

Rubinger: Steve, as a former college athlete yourself, what’s your observation of the sports world’s changes regarding how injuries are approached, especially compared to when we were younger?

Steve Quehl: I view this issue through the lens of my grandchildren and their friends, and I agree with the insights shared by these doctors. Their perspectives must influence parents’ decisions, particularly regarding the early specialization trend. Parents often have unrealistic expectations of their children becoming professional athletes, which can lead to overtraining and injuries. Kids should have a balanced approach to sports. I’m grateful my daughters chose activities like swimming over contact sports for their children, considering the risks to growing bones and muscles.

Prior to my enrollment at Notre Dame, I appreciated the joy of playing multiple sports during each season for fun, without the pressure of turning it into a professional pursuit.

Efficient outpatient care benefits

Rubinger: I’ve noticed remarkable changes in my lifetime regarding the duration of procedures and the efficiency of hospital stays or visits to outpatient surgery centers. I’m curious about your perspective on this shift away from extended hospital stays. Do you believe it’s ultimately beneficial or detrimental to patients? What are your thoughts on this evolution of the time spent in hospitals or surgery centers?

Dr. Brooks: There’s been a significant shift in the duration of hospital stays, especially concerning joint procedures. In the past, patients would typically spend several days in the hospital before and after surgery. In my practice, around 90% of primary joint patients can return home the same day, which is remarkable. This change is not only due to patient preferences for quicker recovery but also has medical benefits, such as reducing the risk of infection. Outpatient joint replacement is not done everywhere, however, and it is important to discuss this option with your individual surgeon.

Insurance companies have started incentivizing shorter hospital stays. While this trend has clear advantages, it also comes with challenges, such as pressure to discharge patients quickly. The ability to expedite recovery and minimize specific complications is a positive development I believe will continue.

Rubinger: Do we have data showing a decrease in complications due to the trend of shorter hospital stays, particularly for joint procedures?

Dr. Burns: Evidence indicates improved outcomes for outpatient procedures, with data supporting this trend. The shift involves a comprehensive approach beyond simply performing the surgery and discharging the patient. It requires a multidisciplinary effort, with investments in establishing preoperative optimization programs, patient education classes and a coordinated team approach on the day of surgery.

Patients undergo physical therapy before returning home, but the care doesn’t stop there. We must ensure effective pain management, minimize infection risks and create a safe home environment to support their recovery. This process goes beyond safely discharging patients. It’s about ensuring their complete and safe recovery. I’m proud of the extensive teamwork and complex processes that Wellstar has implemented to support these programs.

Quehl: When it was time to correct my right shoulder this past year, I went in the morning and came back home in the evening. Dr. Burns assured me that I’d be home the same day, and it was a wonderful experience. I didn’t want any overnight stays. It was well-planned and executed, with proper anticipation and expectations set. The follow-up was excellent, too.

Dr. Brooks: Patients are shocked or hesitant when I inform them that they’ll go home the same day. It’s about managing expectations and explaining the benefits, especially as it relates to improved outcomes. Involvement in these programs gives physicians more control over the process. It’s a serious undertaking but rewarding because we can provide more input, especially in an outpatient setting. Collaboration with anesthesia colleagues has improved, particularly with techniques like regional blocks, as patients need to be up and about after surgery. Almost universally in my experience, patients prefer their outpatient surgical experience to any previous hospital stays.

Multimodal pain management success

Rubinger: This leads me to my next question regarding opioids and pharmacology. Has pharmacology evolved over the last decade to improve patient treatment?

Dr. Burns: Most of us are employing what we refer to as multimodal pain control, which involves a process aimed at sparing, if not entirely eliminating, the need for opioids as a primary method of pain management. By utilizing different medications that target distinct pain receptors, we can effectively manage pain while minimizing potential side effects that may arise from relying solely on opioids or multiple doses of the same medication. Advancements in regional blocks, administered by anesthesiologists, allow injections that can provide numbing effects in the affected areas for several days, alleviating initial post-operative pain and reducing patients’ overall need for pain medication over time.

Dr. Oswald: The opioid crisis in the greater Atlanta area is a significant concern for both children and adults, and it’s something we’re all acutely aware of. We’ve initiated extensive research efforts at Wellstar to address this issue and lead advancements in pain management that don’t rely on narcotics. Similar to the approach described in the total joint experience, we’ve been observing this trend for some time now, even in pediatric cases.

When I trained for pediatric spine surgery 20 years ago, patients stayed in the hospital for at least a week post-surgery. By implementing multimodal approaches, we’ve managed to reduce narcotic use by nearly 90% while also transitioning from a week-long hospital stay to just a 23-hour observation period for certain procedures.

Patient satisfaction is higher with these approaches, directly correlating with their overall experience. Are we expediting discharge solely for the sake of pushing people out? Actually, no. It’s about ensuring patients feel empowered in their recovery process, with their pain managed effectively, and their ability to return to the quality of life they desire. These patient-centered care programs optimize outcomes and enhance the overall healthcare experience.

In people under 50, colorectal cancer is now the number one cancer-related killer of men and the number two killer of women. Black communities are 20% more likely to get colorectal cancer and 40% more likely to die from it. But this doesn’t have to be the case—colorectal cancer is preventable. When people have a screening colonoscopy, doctors can remove pre-cancerous polyps, stopping them from ever becoming cancer.

Colonoscopies are now recommended starting at age 45 for the general population, and younger for people at higher risk or with a family history. But you have questions:

I’m above average healthy—do I really need a colonoscopy?

How do I know my risk level?

Will the procedure be painful?

How much time should I take off of work?

A panel of gastrointestinal health experts and a patient answer your questions and more here.



Who needs a colonoscopy

I eat well, exercise and am in good general health. Do I really need to go through the hassle of a screening colonoscopy?

Dr. Shani Clay, gastroenterologist: Unfortunately, we discover colon cancer in quite healthy individuals. While it is true that smoking and consumption of red meat increases your risk, we also see colorectal cancer in patients who follow very healthy diets and exercise regularly, hence the need for all people to get screened for colon cancer.

Samantha McInturff, colon cancer survivor: The screening age used to be 50 before they changed it to 45, so I had never had a screening. I was 48 when I had symptoms that led to a colonoscopy and I was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. I am a rule follower. I always get my mammograms. I never smoked. I have no family history. I thought, ‘How can I have cancer?’ What I’ve been through really highlights the importance of screening early. Don’t be scared. Getting screened for colon cancer is a small inconvenience that’s completely worth it. 

When should I start having colon cancer screenings and how often will I need to have one?

Dr. Clay: For people at average risk, meaning people with no alarm symptoms and no family history of colon cancer, screening begins at age 45. 

How frequently you should have a colonoscopy depends on a few things, including family history, the number and type of polyps that are found during your colonoscopy and how clean the colon is at the time of the procedure. Repeat procedures can be anywhere from six months up to 10 years, depending on the results.

Colon cancer is in my family. When should I start screening? 

Dr. Sahir Shroff, surgical oncologist: We’re seeing more and more young patients with colon cancer. If a patient has a strong family history, the screening should start sooner than 45 years of age. For example, if your parent died of colon cancer, you should begin colonoscopies at the age of 30. It depends on the risk factor. Talk to your primary care doctor about your personal risk level.

Dr. Clay: If you have high-risk factors, you should be screened earlier. For example, if a person has a first-degree relative with colon cancer who was diagnosed at less than 60 years of age, that individual should get a screening colonoscopy at either 40 years of age or 10 years younger than the age at the relative’s diagnosis. Additionally, there are certain genetic syndromes that also warrant earlier colon cancer screening with a colonoscopy at less than 45 years of age. Wellstar has a Genetic Risk Assessment Program for people with hereditary risk factors or a family history of cancer.

Should I see a doctor if my stool looks different than before? 

Nancy Page, oncology nurse navigator: If you’re having changes in your bowel habits like blood in or on your stool or black stool, you need to let your doctor know soon. Consistent changes like constipation, diarrhea and, it may sound gross, but skinny stools that look like a pencil for a few weeks or more are signs to talk to your doctor. Other changes to be aware of are unexplained weight loss, unexplained fatigue, abdominal pain and even anemia. Don’t put it off. Don’t think, ‘I work a lot. I have kids. I’m busy.’ Let your doctor know now. If it’s colon cancer and it’s diagnosed early, there’s a 90% cure rate.

The care teams at Wellstar are dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of everyone we serve, and we thank our team members for their commitment to world-class care. We also thank Cobb residents for trusting the expertise of Wellstar to keep their families healthy and provide them with more than healthcare, PeopleCare.
Several Wellstar team members have been voted among the Best of Cobb:

• Bruce Alayof, MD
  Wellstar Center for Cardiovascular Care
  Cardiac/Vascular Specialist, Third Place


• Ryan Cantwell, MD
  Wellstar Primary Care
  Family Physician, Third Place
  General Practice Doctor, Third Place


• Larry Clements, MD
  Wellstar Pediatrics
  Pediatrician, First Place


• Kozue Cunningham
  Wellstar Health Place
  Massage Therapist, Third Place


• Amber Devey
  Wellstar Health Place
  Personal Trainer, Second Place


• Amber Driskell, MD
  Wellstar Primary Care
  Family Physician, First Place
  General Practice Doctor, First Place


• Amy Gross
  Wellstar Outpatient Rehabilitation
  Physical Therapist, First Place


• David Parks, MD
  Wellstar ENT
  ENT Specialist, Second Place


• Sandra Rodriguez-Sfeir, MD
  Wellstar Pediatrics
  Pediatrician, Third Place


• Daniel Saade, MD
  Wellstar Pediatrics
  Pediatrician, Second Place


• Nicole Shields, AuD
  Wellstar ENT
  Hearing Professional, Second Place


• Carolyn Smallwood, DO
  Wellstar Primary Care
  Family Physician, Second Place
  General Practice Doctor, Second Place


• Michael Vick, MD
  Wellstar ENT
  ENT Specialist, Third Place
  


• Wellstar Health Place
  Fitness Gym, Second Place
  Yoga/Barre/Pilates, Second Place
  Weight Loss - A Healthier You, Third Place


• Wellstar Center for Cardiovascular Care
  Cardiac/Vascular Specialist, Second Place


• Wellstar ENT
  Hearing Center, Second Place


• Wellstar Pediatrics
  at 760 Kennesaw Avenue
  Pediatric Group, Second Place


• Wellstar Pediatrics
  at 121 Marble Mill Road
  Pediatric Group, Third Place

Find a caring primary care provider or specialist near you.

Heart attack is the leading cause of death in Georgia, according to the American Heart Association. To save more lives, Wellstar provides advanced heart care services, ranging from minimally invasive procedures to open heart surgery. The health system recently expanded its offerings to bring an advanced technology called rotational atherectomy to more people in our community. The tool our physicians use for this procedure is called a Rotablator, which has a small but mighty diamond tip.

Who rotational atherectomy helps

Wellstar has offered percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), formerly known as angioplasty, for a number of years. This procedure helps treat the main cause of heart attacks—the build-up of cholesterol filled plaque within a coronary artery. The build-up decreases blood flow and oxygen to the heart. By opening the artery, blood and oxygen can move freely once again.

The benefits of having a PCI typically include fewer complications, faster recovery time and shorter hospital stays.

Not everyone is a candidate for PCI, especially when the blockage is heavily calcified. But rotational atherectomy changes that.

“For heavily calcified coronary blockages, rotational atherectomy works as a drill to decrease the bulk of calcium,” said Wellstar interventional cardiologist Dr. Omer Mirza.

This technology makes non-surgical heart attack treatment available to people with more complex blockages that could not typically be cleared with balloon angioplasty.

Rotational atherectomy has been available at Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center, and now we have expanded availability recently to Wellstar Cobb Medical Center.

“By expanding Wellstar Cobb’s technology, we can offer more comprehensive care for the patient and prevent transfers and subsequent delays to patient care,” Dr. Mirza said.

How rotational atherectomy works

At Wellstar, a rotational atherectomy is performed using a Rotablator, a small, diamond-tipped tool. This revolving instrument is inserted into the blocked artery using a catheter while a patient is under local anesthesia.

When the interventional cardiologist guides the Rotablator to the blockage, it begins to rotate, going as fast as 190,000 rpm. It gently breaks apart the blockage, making the plaque particles small enough to pass safely through the bloodstream.

Stents are then placed in the artery to widen it so blood can flow through. This procedure can improve blood flow and heart function within minutes.

Effective treatment with advanced technology

Studies indicate that rotational atherectomy results in high procedural success rates.

Giving patients the ability to resume normal activities within a few days, the recovery time for this procedure is significantly less than open heart surgery. Patients undergoing a rotational atherectomy typically spend one night in the hospital.



Learn more about interventional cardiology at Wellstar or find a specialist near you.

This article was originally published on Atlanta Business Chronicle on January 6, 2024.

Primary care is the initial and ongoing healthcare individuals receive from pediatricians, internal medicine or family care providers from prevention to the management of common health issues. Primary care fosters enduring patient-clinician relationships and facilitates specialized care when needed. Insufficient primary care can lead to delayed or inadequate medical attention, resulting in undetected health issues, unmanaged chronic conditions and increased reliance on emergency services—which can have significant cost impacts.

Without a robust primary care system, preventive measures, early intervention and continuity of care are compromised, contributing to poorer health outcomes, higher healthcare costs and strain on emergency resources. According to data compiled by the Kaiser Family Foundation, approximately 3.3 million—a third of Georgians— reside in an area grappling with a shortage of primary care. Recognizing the urgency and importance of addressing this issue, leaders from Wellstar Health System joined the Atlanta Business Chronicle for a panel discussion. The conversation delved into the crucial significance of primary care and the challenges that persist, shedding light on the need for strategic solutions in healthcare management.

Panelists & moderator

• Elise Lockamy-Kassim, AVP, Community Health & Center for Health Equity, Wellstar Health System
• Dr. Dean Seehusen, chair of Family & Community Medicine, Wellstar MCG Health
• Dr. Jeffrey Tharp, chief medicine division officer, Wellstar Medical Group
• David Rubinger, market president and publisher, Atlanta Business Chronicle

Reaching the population avoiding medical care

David Rubinger: What strategies can community health providers use to reach out to individuals who haven’t sought medical care until they end up in the emergency room with a chronic condition? What specific approaches does Wellstar employ to effectively bring people into the healthcare system in a more manageable and proactive manner?

Dr. Jeffrey Tharp: Outreach is pivotal in addressing the root issues you mentioned. We understand that a person’s health significantly influences their lifestyle and quality of life. At Wellstar, we actively raise awareness, an integral part of the fabric that emphasizes the importance of a healthier lifestyle. Interestingly, insurance companies play a role in this by recognizing the cost benefits of keeping individuals healthy. Many insured individuals receive outreach, even in their homes, encouraging health assessments and connecting with primary care physicians.

Wellstar conducts numerous community campaigns through various channels, including community events, the media and in our offices and hospitals, highlighting the value of maintaining health and establishing a relationship with a primary care physician.

Elise Lockamy-Kassim: To add on to what Dr. Tharp said about reaching out to the community, we know health results are driven by non-health issues. The majority of our health outcomes are attributed to other things like where we live, where we go to work, where we send our children. Health literacy is needed outside health providers’ offices. Wellstar partners with organizations like Ser Familia to reach Spanish speakers and connect them with health resources in their community. Another example is our partnership with BLKHLTH. African Americans are about 20% more likely to get colorectal cancer and about 40% more likely to die from it than most other groups according to the American Cancer Society. Together, we distribute colorectal cancer kits to the community members that enable them to test and get results at home.

Rubinger: What factors contribute to men’s lower likelihood of seeking medical attention?

Dr. Dean Seehusen: It hasn’t been a cultural norm in America for men to seek out healthcare.  I think part of it is also about the interaction that families have had with medicine over the years. Women get screening tests at a much younger age than men, like pap smears and mammograms, on a regular, ongoing basis. Considering traditional family dynamics, who also takes children to the doctor? Traditionally, it was the mother. She was going to the doctor herself annually, and men waited until they had chest pain for the first time. There wasn’t that equivalent of an annual exam associated with screening tests that men had in customary American medicine.

Rubinger: I’ve noticed a positive shift in the American health community acknowledging and addressing the reluctance of men to prioritize health check-ups. Recent advertising featuring athletes, unconventional in traditional public service ads, indicates a cultural change. How do you perceive the impact of technological advancements in further influencing the healthcare narrative and possibly addressing the healthcare-seeking behavior within the male dynamic?

Lockamy-Kassim: If I put on an equity lens, I could think of the male population as an underserved group in healthcare in certain ways. We’re addressing that, especially in the Center for Health Equity here at Wellstar, because we are bringing care, awareness, health literacy and health education to people where they are.

We’ve had many campaigns with people at churches and social service agencies where they just live their lives. We will bring the healthcare to you and that represents a shift. Across the industry, we’re returning it to where it used to be when you had a doctor make house calls. We see the benefits of that model.

Telemedicine and accessibility

Rubinger: Amid the challenges of COVID, a silver lining is the increased accessibility of healthcare through telemedicine. The positive aspect lies in the enhanced efficiency of interactions and features like online scheduling. How has that changed how you all practice medicine?

Dr. Seehusen: Wellstar is leading the way in telehealth. We are contacting many rural parts of Georgia, not just the Augusta or Atlanta area. There’s a statewide network that we are reaching out to via telehealth that includes ICU and emergency care, and we’re even doing a lot of hospital-type care at home now. It’s paving the way for the future of what healthcare can look like.

On the flip side, when we try to deliver primary care via telemedicine, equity becomes an issue. There is a subset of our patients who do not have the hardware or do not live in a neighborhood that has Wi-Fi connectivity. There is still work to be done on the primary care side with telemedicine. Once you get into the more specialized care, we’re doing some fantastic things that I’m proud of.

Dr. Tharp: To echo Dr. Seehusen, what has been done at Augusta University has really led the way for much of what the rest of us have learned along the way.  Virtual care is a skill set that primary care physicians rarely had before COVID—how to perform it or what was appropriate to do via telemedicine.

The access issue is a double-edged sword. It does help some people, but on the other hand, there are areas where broadband is not great, or you have elderly folks who may not know technology. We must ensure that we give appropriate care when it needs to be in-person versus virtually and provide access to technology to as many people as possible who can’t afford that luxury.

Lockamy-Kassim: Evolving patient needs have forced us to grow as innovatively and quickly as the industry grows. In a church setting, we provide broadband hotspots, laptops and free services to individuals we encounter. You’re going to learn the signs and symptoms of whatever health topic we’re addressing. We will give you the tools to access primary care. We’ve had to be creative with our funding and partnerships to make sure we’re not creating more inequity as we pursue this new space.

Dr. Tharp: An example of patient care improvement as a result of the pandemic, particularly with the diabetes epidemic, is the advent and promotion of virtual diabetic education classes. Previously, multi-hour comprehensive diabetic classes could be difficult to schedule with respect to work and family responsibilities and transportation. Having the ability to do all that virtually has increased people’s knowledge, and we’re seeing metrics improve in diabetic control, almost to the same degree as adding on another medicine. It’s a vivid example of how we’ve been able to use this technology and help people’s lives on the primary care side.

The value of having a primary care physician

Rubinger: Unfortunately, people would use their emergency room as their primary care physician. What can be done to help educate people on where they should go first, and how do you decide which care is best for your medical situation?

Tharp: There are different values when having a relationship with a primary care physician, such as access, quality of care and individualized care. When starting that relationship, there’s often an access problem since there are so few primary care physicians in the state and nation to accommodate our needs.

One tactic in building relationships with patients is connecting them with a specific physician or practice when they visit the emergency room. Although the process isn’t perfect, having a designated contact helps streamline communication. When a patient is identified, the initial step is knowing who to call, and from there, the referral process can begin. While it may not always be as fast as desired, establishing this relationship can also involve routing the referral through an urgent care facility in some instances. Having your own primary care physician can help you overcome some of the difficulty in navigating the U.S. healthcare system.  Those benefits we see with that primary care patient relationship must start with knowing who to call.

Seehusen: Once a patient has experienced primary care with a provider they regularly see, establishing a relationship with true continuity occurs. This provider ideally knows not just the patient but also their entire family and medical history. It’s about getting them into the door. Then, we must develop systems where, again, access exists. The faces are stable enough that even if it’s not the same one face, it’s at least a small team of clinicians who are seeing that patient repeatedly.

A small team might be made of one physician and a couple of nurse practitioners and that small team really gets to know that patient and vice versa. You won’t have to convince those patients of the value of primary care. Those patients are much less likely to show up at an urgent care center or the emergency room because they know they want to see that team.

Lockamy-Kassim: While conducting our Community Health Needs Assessment, we held a Community Summit—a community-centered event similar to a focus group. With community members in each of our service areas, we identified access to care as a critical community challenge. One of the first aspects they mentioned as being the best asset in their community was the presence of a Wellstar Graduate Medical Education clinic or primary care facility. We know that neighborhoods are comprised differently. One of the ways that we can make entry points for primary care instead of the emergency room is to have primary care facilities in high-need ZIP codes.

By Dr. Joanna Dolgoff, Wellstar pediatrician

When school is in session, finding the perfect after-school snack that balances nutrition and deliciousness can feel like quite a task. As a board-certified Wellstar pediatrician, I understand the importance of fueling growing bodies with the right nutrients. With that, I'm excited to share five wholesome after-school snack ideas that are easy to make and fun for kids to eat. 

1. Celery Caterpillars

This creative snack recipe offers a good balance of protein from peanut butter, along with a variety of fruits and vegetables, providing essential vitamins and antioxidants for growing children.

What You’ll Need:
Peanut butter
Celery
Grapes
Blueberries
Grape tomatoes
Candy eyes

Directions:

1. Fill stalks of celery with peanut butter.
2. Place grapes, blueberries or grape tomatoes atop celery sticks. These will be the body and head of your caterpillars. 
3. Apply peanut butter to the backs of candy eyes, then place eyes on grape, tomato or blueberry to create face.
4. Optional: Cut thin matchsticks from a celery stick and place behind candy eyes to create the antennae. 

2. Apple Sailboats

This recipe is excellent for kids as it combines the crisp sweetness of apples, a good source of fiber and vitamins, with protein-rich peanut butter and the added crunch of Cheerios to create a tasty and nutritionally balanced snack. Toothpicks may be a choking hazard for children, so supervise as your family makes and enjoys this snack. 

What You’ll Need:
One apple
Peanut butter
Cheerios
Low-fat cheese
Toothpicks

Directions:

1. Cut apple in half and remove the apple’s core. 
2. Spread peanut butter across the flat side of your apple halves. 
3. Place Cheerios on top of peanut butter spread. 
4. Using a thick slice of cheese, cut triangular sails for your apple boats. 
5. Attach sail to boat using toothpick.

3. Krazy Kabobs 

This krazy kabob recipe is a playful and nutritious way to encourage children to enjoy a variety of fruits. Filled with hydrating watermelon, sweet cantaloupe, refreshing honeydew, juicy pineapple, antioxidant-rich blueberries and grapes, these skewers provide a spectrum of vitamins and flavors, promoting a fun and healthy snacking experience for young taste buds.

What You’ll Need:
Watermelon
Cantaloupe
Honeydew
Pineapple
Blueberries
Grapes
Wood skewers
Fruit-shape cutters (stars, hearts, etc.)

Directions:

1. Cut horizontal slices of your larger fruits (watermelon, cantaloupe and honeydew). 
2. Use your fruit cutters to cut shapes out of your fruit slices. 
3. Place any creative combination of fruits or fruit shapes onto your skewer to create the ultimate krazy kabob.

4. Veggie Cars

This wholesome veggie car recipe is a fun way to encourage children to enjoy their vegetables. With vibrant baby peppers and baby cucumbers, the snack not only provides essential vitamins, but also engages kids in a fun, hands-on experience of assembling their own veggie cars, promoting both healthy eating and interactive play. Toothpicks may be a choking hazard for children.

What You’ll Need:
10 baby peppers
Six baby cucumbers
Toothpicks

Directions:

1. Slice cucumbers into half-inch rounds, discarding the ends. These will be your wheels. 
2. Place two toothpicks through each pepper. The toothpicks will serve as the axels to your cars. 
3. Push one cucumber round onto the ends of each toothpick to form the full car.

5. Banana Lollipops 

These banana lollipops offer a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional sweets. With the natural sweetness of bananas and the richness of dark chocolate, the recipe makes for an enjoyable, nutritious after-school snack for kids of all ages.  

What You’ll Need:
One banana
Chopped dark chocolate bar
Popsicle sticks
Wax paper and baking sheet

1. Unpeel banana and slice into inch-thick rounds, discarding the ends. 
2. Insert one popsicle stick into each round. 
3. Place chopped dark chocolate into microwave-safe bowl and heat until melted. 
4. Dip each banana round into chocolate.
5. Place popsicles onto wax paper-covered baking sheet and let freeze for 45 minutes.  

As a pediatrician dedicated to the well-being of children, these snack ideas offer more than delicious bites—they pave the way for a lifetime of healthy habits. Incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables, these recipes not only provide essential vitamins and minerals, but also engage young minds in the joy of preparing and enjoying wholesome foods. Learn more about how to keep your kids happy and healthy by scheduling an appointment with a world-class Wellstar pediatrician today. 

A graduate of New York University Grossman School of Medicine, Dr. Joanna Dolgoff is a board-certified pediatrician with Wellstar.

Wellstar’s content, and all related media, are provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. Consult a pediatrician for the diet that’s best for your child.

Santa Claus’ cheery “Ho, Ho, Ho” boomed through Christian Norris’ hospital room seconds before the jolly man entered the room himself.

Christian, age 3, wore a Santa and sat in the middle of his hospital bed at Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia. He broke into a wide smile as the Jolly Old Elf came near. Santa gave Christian a large stuffed bear, a stuffed animal and a wrapped Christmas present.

On Christmas morning, Santa made his rounds at Wellstar Children’s, visiting patients like Christian, who couldn’t be home for Christmas.

Christian’s mother, Charlene Norris, said it meant a lot to her that Santa took the time to visit. “There’s joy for the children in times like this when they don’t understand anything. They don’t understand why this is happening to them,” she said. “Just to see them smile and to know that Christmas isn’t all about gifts at home. People came out to make sure that he had a Christmas, even if he was in the hospital.”

On Christmas Eve, Christian’s stomach began expanding and he started to dry heave. Not knowing what was wrong, Charlene brought him to the emergency room at Wellstar Children’s and the staff began running tests. Doctors are still working to determine what’s causing the problem, but they have ruled out a cancerous tumor, Charlene said.

She knows first-hand that Christian is in good hands.

“Believe it or not, I was a patient as a child here years ago under the old Medical College of Georgia,” said Charlene, who is an Augusta resident. “I’m a cardiac patient myself. Being here as a child and then being here as a parent with a child—it makes you more grateful that we didn’t have to go far.”

As she spoke, Christian unwrapped his gift. It was a toy doctor’s kit, and he busied himself exploring different tools inside and putting a cloth band aid on his leg.

“Some people have to come so far to get here. We are grateful to have this hospital here,” Charlene said.

Learn more about Wellstar Children’s and its pediatric services.

From a balancing a busy work schedule to running errands around town, it can be easy to keep putting off important wellness appointments. However, an annual visit with your Wellstar primary care clinician is one of the best investments you can make in your health.

Just like building savings in a bank account, each preventative care appointment adds more value to your health. That’s because, instead of just getting treatment just when you feel sick or experience symptoms of a serious condition, preventative care helps you stay ahead of potential medical problems.

Taking the time to schedule an annual wellness exam can pay off in the long run.

Early detection for everyone

At Wellstar, we believe preventative care is the key to living your fullest, healthiest life. During an annual exam, our primary care team uses preventative screenings to help catch major diseases early and prevent chronic conditions.

While different types of tests may be recommended based on your age, gender and medical history, common screenings include a:

• Physical exam
• Medicare Annual Wellness Visit
• Family history questionnaire
• Check of your vital signs
• Blood pressure test
• Blood cholesterol analysis
• Body mass index (BMI) assessment

Atypical results may indicate an increased risk of certain diseases like diabetes, heart disease or high blood pressure. Your primary care team may order extra testing or refer you for follow-up care with a Wellstar specialist, such as a cardiologist, neurologist or oncologist.

Medicare Annual Wellness Visit
The Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) gives you the opportunity to meet with your primary care provider to:

• Discuss your current health and any opportunities you may have to enhance your wellness plan.
• Work together to create an action plan that allows you to track your healthcare goals year to year.
• Identify other health concerns that may be affecting your quality of life.

If you have a chronic disease or new illnesses, they should be discussed during your wellness visit. Treatment(s) may need to be addressed separately.

Learn more here:
Medicare.gov
Cigna.com
Humana.com
Aetna.com
Wellcare.com

Understand your risk factors

Knowledge is power. Understanding the results of your wellness exams can help you take charge of your health and make informed decisions about your care.

The results of your health screenings may reveal certain personal risk factors. Some of your risk factors can’t be changed, such as your age, genetics or family medical history. Others are under your control and can be adjusted to help you live well, including eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise and choosing not to smoke.

Understanding your test results and risk factors can help you become your own wellness advocate. Armed with knowledge about your health, you can often reduce the effects of a serious condition, improve your outcome or avoid certain health complications altogether.

Your wellness check-up is also a safe space to discuss your health goals and medical concerns. Whether you need help maintaining a healthy weight or managing a chronic condition, your Wellstar primary care clinician will create a tailored care plan just for you, based on your unique health needs.

Don’t delay your annual exam. Schedule a visit today by clicking the "Book Now" button at the top of any webpage.

Are you getting the most out of your healthcare experience? If you don’t have an established Wellstar primary care provider (PCP), you could be missing out on some major benefits.

Some people visit a different provider each time they need a check-up or just whenever they feel sick. Similarly, many patients use the walk-in convenience of urgent care as a substitute for primary care. However, in both of these cases, it can be difficult for you to build a lasting health partnership and leave your care feeling incomplete.

Having a designated Wellstar primary care provider—and specialty medicine providers within the same health system—gives you an entire team of health experts that are invested in you and your well-being.

Benefits of a primary care provider

The main role of a primary care provider is to keep you healthy at every age and stage of life. To keep you feeling your best, these experts are trained to:

• Get to know and understand your unique health needs. Your PCP can keep you on track with your individual wellness goals, whether you are planning to start a family, need help managing a chronic illness or maintaining a healthy weight.
• Coordinate care and provide referrals for specialists. Your PCP can quickly and seamlessly get you in touch with the robust network of medical experts, such as cardiologists, oncologists, neurologists and more at Wellstar.
• Keep you up-to-date on immunizations and vaccinations. You can build up your body’s immunity to common diseases and protect your health with the latest vaccines, all ordered by your PCP.
• Order appropriate health screenings, diagnostic tests and follow-up care. If your wellness check-up reveals certain risk factors, chronic conditions or new diagnoses, your PCP can help you get the right treatment fast.
• Treat you for acute illnesses, such as colds or the flu. When you feel under the weather, your established PCP can often get you an appointment sooner so you can feel better.

Continuing care for every stage of life

As you get older, your healthcare needs will change. That’s why many people keep the same Wellstar primary care provider for years, even decades.

Your provider can help you stay ahead of health issues and deliver tailored care for your unique needs, as they change over time. These experts are your first defense against many preventable diseases and can catch major illnesses earlier, so you have the best possible outcome.

Ready to find the right Wellstar primary care provider for you? We make it easy to get expert, comprehensive primary care at many convenient locations across metro Atlanta and West Georgia. To find a location near you, simply click “Book Now” at the top of any page.

Between cookie baking, busy shopping trips and being with family, the holiday season can pass by in a blur. Through all the hustle and bustle, Wellstar health experts warn it can be all too easy to put off your wellness.

“During this hectic time of year, health may be the last thing on your mind. However, the best present you can give yourself is prioritizing your well-being,” said Dr. Umme Nur, internal medicine physician with Wellstar.

“Seeing your provider now can help you stay on track this season,” Dr. Nur explained. “It can also help you jumpstart your health goals in January and already have a care plan tailored to your needs.”

Start healthy habits

It’s easy to let your normal routines slip during this time of year. However, you can take small steps to stay on track every day.

• Eat right. It’s okay to indulge in holiday treats, but try to keep your main meals balanced with fruits and veggies.
• Don’t forget about fitness. Create a routine and stick to your exercise goals, even if it’s just a 30-minute stroll.
• Catch some Z’s. Maintain an adequate sleep regimen to help your body rest, feel refreshed and ready for the day.

Check in on your well-being

Remember, the perfect gift isn’t something wrapped with a bow—it’s putting your health first. That means partnering with Wellstar Primary Care and scheduling a wellness exam.

Your primary care team will help you take charge of your health and create a personalized plan just for you. Because your clinician is a pro at preventative care, they’ll help keep you ahead of potential medical problems.

After your annual check-up, you’ll know your stats for:

• Blood pressure. Taken with a simple arm cuff, a blood pressure test helps diagnose hypertension (high blood pressure), hypotension (low blood pressure), heart disease and other conditions.
• Blood glucose level. The amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood can indicate the onset of diabetes and an increased risk for heart disease, heart attack or stroke.
• Blood cholesterol. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often called “bad” cholesterol, can indicate clogged arteries, which may lead to heart disease, heart attack or stroke.
• Body mass index (BMI). The BMI estimates human body fat, which may indicate an increased risk for heart disease, hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes.

At your exam, be sure to bring up any health goals, such as weight loss or managing a chronic condition. Your care team will work with you to create a custom treatment plan for your unique needs.

Know your family history & take action

Depending on your gender, age and family history, your care team may also recommend other preventative tests to screen for diseases before they start, such as a mammogram or colonoscopy.

Your clinician can also help you understand your potential health risks with:

• Know Your Heart screenings. Preventative heart screenings help determine your risk of heart disease, stroke and other serious conditions.
• Genetic risk assessment. Genetic testing is a tool to help people determine their hereditary risk of cancer and heart problems. This program also helps couples and expecting mothers with prenatal or preconception concerns.

Learn more about how having an established primary care team can keep you well.

This article was originally published on Atlanta Business Chronicle on November 3, 2023.

As cancer research advances, doctors know more about the keys to reducing cancer cases and driving better outcomes, like long-term survival. Prevention, early detection and treatment—an area that has drastically improved through scientific discovery—are the big three keys today. While preventative measures reduce the risk, screening for cancer before someone has symptoms can be a lifesaver when it is identified earlier and in more treatable stages. Newer, more advanced treatments and starting treatment faster are also making a sizeable impact on survival. For a closer look at how healthcare experts apply these keys in the fight against cancer, Atlanta Business Chronicle’s Market President and Publisher David Rubinger sat down with Wellstar leaders and patients for a sponsored panel discussion on the state of cancer care.

Panelists & moderator

• Dr. Bill Mayfield, MD, medical director, lung screening program, medical director, incidental pulmonary nodule program, medical director, STAT Clinics, Wellstar
• Dr. John French, MD, medical oncologist, Wellstar and Northwest Georgia Oncology Centers*
• Kathy DeJoseph, lung cancer survivor
• David Rubinger, market president and publisher, Atlanta Business Chronicle

*Wellstar partners with Northwest Georgia Oncology Centers to provide world class cancer care close to home.

Keys to better outcomes

David Rubinger: Cancer is one of the top causes of death in the U.S., second only to heart disease, with 1.9 million new cancer diagnoses expected this year. The whole idea of trying to beat cancer is the common language of treatment now. We’ve really changed the conversation in many ways. Dr. Mayfield, what have been the keys to getting these better survival rates across all types of cancers?

Dr. Bill Mayfield: There are three basic components to improving outcomes and reducing cancer. Number one is prevention. How can you prevent cancer? Smoking cessation is a major way to reduce the risk for cancer, especially lung cancer. The second key is early detection screening for cancer such as colonoscopies, skin exams and low dose lung cancer CT scans.

Finally, we have treatment as the third key. We have dramatically improved treatments, especially in the last 10 years, with targeted therapies, immune therapies and precisely targeted radiation therapy. For some cancers, reducing the time it takes to start treatment can be as impactful as some of the newer cancer therapies. At Wellstar, we speed up time to treatment through our STAT Clinics.

Rubinger: Dr. French, from the medical oncology standpoint, what has specifically gone on in your world since you started practicing medicine that you think has improved these outcomes?

Dr. John French: There’s no bigger story than immunotherapy in the last 10 years. It was 2017 when Jim Allison out of the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and Tasuku Honjo in Japan won the Nobel Prize for cancer immunotherapy—the first time the Nobel in Medicine recognized a cancer therapy in decades. Wellstar and our patients participated in clinical trial development of immunotherapy for various cancers.

In medical oncology, there are also targeted therapies. In improving the survival and outcomes of patients, we do a lot of what we call next generation sequencing—tumor genomics and tumor DNA. The way I explain this is, “We’re not testing Kathy’s DNA. We’re testing the tumor itself. We are trying to find a lock and key mechanism, where if we can find what’s driving the cancer, maybe there’s a pill or a target that we can go after to take it out.”

Rubinger: Let’s move on to lung cancer in particular. Lung cancer has traditionally been known as a smoker’s disease—at least that’s how many people view it. It appears as though in the United States we’ve seen an improvement in terms of the number of lung cancer cases. Dr. Mayfield, where is the lung cancer discussion right now? I feel it was maybe one of these small victories that are going on in the cancer movement.

Dr. Mayfield: We do actually have some large victories. The surgeon general came out with a report in the 1960s that said smoking caused premature death and lung cancer. Men in Georgia started reducing their smoking about 35 years ago. As a result, we have 50% fewer male smokers and 35 years later, we’re now seeing a 50% reduction in primary lung cancers from tobacco.

Rubinger: As far as I understand it, early lung cancer is one of those cancers that has no outward physical markers that tell you you’ve got something going wrong. So as lung cancer specialists, what do you advise people to do when they’re getting their checkup? What is the process by which they should be screening for lung cancer?

Dr. French: The biggest thing you can do is if you’re smoking, stop smoking and get screened if you’re eligible. Dr. Mayfield discussed that already, but I’ll add some numbers and perspective.

Number two, if you were a smoker, understand the guidelines and recommendations to undergo screening. They updated the guidelines in 2021 that if your age is 50 to 80 and you have a 20 or more pack per year history of smoking, and currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years, then you’re eligible for screening.

By having a CT scan, you can reduce the risk of lung cancer death by up to 20% by identifying and treating cancer earlier.

Rubinger: Let’s talk to a lung cancer patient about this. Kathy, thank you for joining us. Take us briefly through your journey. What is your background with cancer?

Kathy DeJoseph: This year, I’m a 12-year survivor. Before I was diagnosed, I was a career person and I was on my computer one day and up popped information about this early lung cancer screening study that Wellstar was a part of. I had no symptoms. I had a long history of smoking, grew up with parents who smoked, grandparents who smoked, lived near a factory that was belching out junk into the air.

I was a workaholic and a mom and I saw this study and for whatever reason, I called and talked to the nurse navigator. I was like, “I don’t know whether I want to do this or not. You know, this sounds like I’m going to end up paranoid about it.” She encouraged me to participate.

Dr. Mayfield: Kathy was enrolled in the study and had three or four normal CT scans before she developed a mass. And sure enough, we jumped right on it through Lung Cancer STAT Clinic and got her treatment plan together quickly. That was the point of her being in the annual screening study.

What is a STAT Clinic?

Rubinger: Kathy, before we dive further into your treatment, will Dr. Mayfield help define the STAT Clinic? It’s not a simple thing to do. You all are very busy people and you all have individual schedules. To turn you all into this sort of troop, if you will, moving in sync, that’s a logistical nightmare for a bunch of doctors.

Dr. Mayfield: STAT stands for Specialty Teams and Treatments and it’s about bringing multiple cancer experts together to collaborate about a patient’s care and meet with them the same day so they can get treatment started quickly. We created STAT because we saw a need to do things better and to put the patient at the center of everything we do.

About 17 years ago, we opened a general Thoracic Surgery practice at Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center. And we did everything like everybody else did. We had a navigator—someone who connects a person who has cancer with the help and support they need. We had tumor boards—a group of physicians and scientists who meet to discuss treatment options for individual cancer patients.

But when we looked carefully, we saw that by the time the patient’s case was presented in a tumor board, it was 58 days on average from the time the patient had their original CT scan. They had gone from a primary care doctor to a pulmonologist to an oncologist back to the pulmonologist, then had a biopsy, a PET scan and then maybe saw a radiation oncologist. It was 58 days by the time they got to the tumor board and were able to get a treatment plan started. That’s a problem. But that is the standard of care in the United States today—60 to 90 days in this workup period.

We said, “There’s got to be another way.” I knew of a clinic run by a pretty notable oncologist in another state, who brought the thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists and the oncologist to his clinic to see the patient at the same time. An oncologist and I drove up there, spent the day, asked a bunch of questions and said, “You know what, we need to do this.”

So we came back and getting those specialists—the thoracic surgeon, pulmonologist, medical oncologist, radiation oncologist and navigator—in the same place at the same time was hard.

What we decided to do is start with one hour on Wednesday afternoon. So we saw two patients one week, then 2 to 3 the next week and then 3 to 4 the next week. Then a primary care doctor heard about it and the pulmonologists heard about it and suddenly we were seeing 12, 15, 20 patients.

A few years ago we surpassed more than 10,000 patient visits in the Lung Cancer STAT Clinic. And during that time, we started the lung screening program and the incidental nodule program.

The culmination of our initiatives to identify lung cancer earlier and hasten the time to treatment has reduced our time from abnormal image to starting treatment to somewhere between 14 and 20 days, rather than 60 to 90 days. The early detection program has made it such that 40% of the cancers diagnosed at Wellstar are stage 1 and 2, when cancer is more treatable and patients have better outcomes. On a national average, just 15 to 20% of lung cancer diagnoses are stage 1 or 2. We’ve dramatically improved the ability of our lung cancer patients in our community to survive their disease.

Rubinger: It sounds like early detection and shorter time to start treatment make a real impact for patients. Kathy, let’s talk a little bit about what those things meant for you as a patient. Let’s start with when you were diagnosed. Did you have any symptoms? What happened next?

DeJoseph: I didn’t have any symptoms. Everything was fine, except for my history with smoking. The year I was diagnosed, I was going to quit the study but the nurse navigator took me out to lunch to convince me to come back—and thank goodness she did. I was diagnosed the very next day.

The biggest benefit for me with the way the STAT Clinic works is that I didn’t have to worry about whether the doctors had actually talked to each other. I didn’t have to worry about whether maybe they didn’t actually agree. All those things that I would have been worried about went away because I talked to all of them on the same day in the same place.

It gives you a lot of confidence. I thought, “Well, you know, they’d have to all be wrong on the same day at the same time to screw this up.” I ended up becoming a volunteer and would meet with newly diagnosed patients for several years. One of the biggest things that I would talk to new patients about is how STAT Clinic kept things from dragging out for months, going from doctor to doctor.

Rubinger: It sounds like STAT Clinic is meaningful to patients, not just medically, but emotionally. Is the STAT Clinic exclusively for people with lung cancer or are patients with other conditions benefitting from this model now?

Dr. Mayfield: That’s a good question. We added Lung Cancer STAT Clinics at Wellstar Cobb, Douglas and North Fulton Medical Centers. Outside of lung cancer, my neurosurgery buddy got curious. He’s saying, “Wait a minute. You know, we have this patient with brain cancer and they have to go see the radiation oncologist but your patient gets to meet the radiation oncologist at the same time as you. We want that.”

So the next STAT Clinic that cranked up was for neurological tumors. It was awesome to see that we could inspire other folks to do the same thing.

Dr. French: To add to that, we also have STAT clinics for breast cancer and head and neck cancer. All of these cancers require multidisciplinary care with doctors from different specialties who collaborate on patient care because otherwise, you have to go see different cancer subspecialists and that may take a longer period of time.

Dr. Mayfield: Here’s the dark secret about cancer care in the U.S. Dr. Alok Khorana at the Cleveland Clinic published a paper about three years ago. He studied 1.2 million cases in the national cancer database and 340,000 of those were lung cancer patients. He clearly showed that for every seven days’ delay in therapy in stage 1 or stage 2 disease, you lose 2% five-year survival. Delay in time to initial cancer treatment in the U.S. is an important risk factor for survival over time.

A first-hand account

Rubinger: Kathy, let’s come back to you for a second. So you go into this STAT Clinic. Obviously, this whole process must have been terrifying on so many different fronts.

DeJoseph: I wasn’t as terrified for as long as most people are because I had answers within a short period of time.

Rubinger: How short?

DeJoseph: I had my biopsy the next morning after the first STAT Clinic appointment. About a week and a half after that, I started chemo. That was really fast. I had surgery after chemo.

In the STAT Clinic, every doctor comes in and talks to you. You learn what their role is going to be and what the timing will be with other treatments. It all happens at the same time. I took a lot of confidence in questioning everybody on the same day and knowing they had also talked together. I knew for sure that they had, where I would have really wondered about that if had I done it the normal way—visiting multiple specialists over a several-month period.

Rubinger: I’ll be the contrarian for a second. What if I walk into the STAT Clinic and say, “Well, I’d like to choose my surgeon. I’d like to choose my oncologist. I’d like to choose the radiation oncologist I want to use for my radiation treatment.” How much flexibility do I have within the STAT Clinic to select the doctor I want to work with? Or do I have to take the ones that are assigned to me regardless?

Dr. Mayfield: That is an excellent question. You can come to us for a consolidated opinion and get your care wherever you choose. You have four experts looking at you physically and reviewing all your imaging and all your tests together, coming to a consensus. For treatment, you can use any oncologist, any thoracic surgeon, anybody you want, even if it’s within our own institution.

Dr. French: Whether we’re providing the care or simply an opinion, STAT Clinic puts the patient first. We have patients from Alabama, Tennessee, North Georgia who can’t travel here for ongoing care. I’ve even had patients who live near the Carolina border. Part of the STAT Clinic is also handling the logistics where one of these patients may need treatment closer to home. For example, someone may need chemotherapy and I say, “OK, I’ll coordinate that with the medical oncologist in your area.” When we’re done seeing STAT Clinic patients, we agree, “You call the local radiation oncologist, I’ll call the local medical oncologist and let’s get them plugged in and connected with treatment recommendations.” Again, STAT Clinic expedites and coordinates all that care. Getting the foot in the door and getting that ball rolling is half the battle.

The state of screening and future goals

Dr. French: In talking about screening earlier, we didn’t address non-smokers. If I don’t smoke, I don’t need to be screened if I’m doing my well check-up and I’m not having a cough or chest pain. There’s really no screening for lung cancer outside of those recommendations.

That being said, the other thing that you need to understand is that in the state of Georgia, we are horrible at screening people. We rank toward the bottom quartile of the entire country in screening patients when it comes to the proportion of eligible patients. The American Lung Association data ranks Georgia 35th in the nation. We screen 5% of eligible people, so we’re not capturing 95% of people who could be screened.

We know the data to support screening is there. Kathy is a living example of this. Talk to your primary care doctor about your history with smoking and the need for screening.

Dr. Mayfield has ramped up the effort to capture more at-risk people through screening, but we still need to get the message out.

Dr. Mayfield: We started our screening program 15 years ago as part of I-ELCAP—the International Early Lung Cancer Action Project—and then we broke off of the study because the results were so positive. We decided we’re just going to do this as a standalone program in our community.

As a result, over the last 15 years, we become one of the three largest lung cancer screening programs in the U.S. We have about 15,000 people in our program currently.

The problem is, we serve a community of 1.7 million in 15 counties. Knowing that 40% of those are smokers or former smokers, we should be scanning a million people a year.

Why aren’t we screening more people? We’re a part of the Georgia Lung Cancer Roundtable and the National Lung Cancer Roundtable trying to solve that problem. I think it’s going to take a national awareness campaign.

When that happens, we need to prepare our screening centers for high volumes. That will drive us from discovering more stage 3 and 4 lung cancers when people are dying, to finding more stage 1 and 2 lung cancers. Those earlier-stage cancers are much less expensive to treat from a policy and population health level and are easier to treat, giving more patients good long-term outcomes.

Rubinger: But we wouldn’t be screening non-smokers at this point.

Dr. Mayfield: There’s not enough data yet to guide us to any other risk factor than tobacco use.

What employers should know about cancer

Rubinger: Let’s talk about the business community for a second.

When it comes to the employee, when you see patients who are in full-time jobs, what role do you see the employer playing when you’re caring for cancer patients? What can employers do to help them in their battles?

Dr. Mayfield: I have a pretty strong opinion on two items. One is that employers should promote age-appropriate screenings for all cancers among their employees. Give them that half a day off if they need to go somewhere for a doctor’s appointment to get that screening exam. And as callous as it may seem, that half a day off to find cancer in earlier stages is much less expensive than treating an advanced cancer years later, from extended time off to the insurance costs associated with advanced cancer.

The CEO of the corporation, the vice president, the chief medical officer, the chief operating officer—they assume that if they or any of their employees get cancer care, they’re going to get the best care available. But unfortunately, the best care available today in most places is going to take them 60 to 90 days to get through the initial doctors’ visits and tests that at the STAT Clinic, we manage in 14 days.

My challenge to the business community is to ask their insurers and their healthcare providers a very difficult question, “How long will it take to get our employee from an abnormal finding to starting treatment?” When insurers and healthcare providers have to start answering hard questions, then we’ll move the ball.

Dr. French: I would add, when a corporation buys health insurance, it needs to make sure institutions that perform research and clinical trials are covered.

I had a patient who had stage 4 prostate cancer and there is a clinical trial using novel bispecific immunotherapeutics. The guy is young; he’s eligible for the trial. The patient signed the trial consent only to find out that his insurance doesn’t cover the medical facility that’s offering it, so therefore he’s not eligible for the clinical trial. Now he’s going to have to get the standard of care, which is good. But he could have gotten something new on a trial if it was covered by his company’s health plan.

So, companies should first make sure that employees are covered for good quality healthcare and at top facilities that perform research.

Number two is, if you’re an executive, consider supporting on-site screening. I’ve seen a lot of patients in the STAT Clinic who get executive physicals, they get a day off and they do this comprehensive testing. Lo and behold it shows something. That early detection gets them to treatment at an earlier stage when the cancer is less advanced and they have a higher chance for better outcomes.

So consider offering a half-day, a health fair or on-site health screenings as part of your company’s health offerings.

I think a healthy employee, one that feels valued and respected, will be a hard worker. If I feel that my business cares about me, my health, my life and my family, that sounds like a company I’d want to work for.

Learn more about cancer care at Wellstar. 

Over the years, advice about breast self-exams and breast cancer screenings has changed. So what exactly should you be doing to make sure you’re staying your healthiest? We brought together a panel of women’s health experts to discuss the best strategies to keep tabs on your breast health—and who to talk to if you’re diagnosed with breast cancer.

I do breast self-checks every month. Why do I need a mammogram too?

Dr. Paula Greaves, MD, OBGYN, Wellstar chief Women's Health officer: Unfortunately, 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, so early detection is key. We have shown over the years that the sooner we detect breast cancer, the more successfully it can be treated. Survival has increased significantly since we started finding breast cancer earlier—before there are symptoms, such as feeling a lump during a self-exam.

Mammograms are essential for early detection. It’s recommended that women start getting mammograms at age 40. However, if you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, your gynecologist or primary care provider may recommend starting earlier and will help you create a personalized screening plan. There are some risk factors that women cannot change, such as genetics, but there are some ways women can lower their risk, like quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. Wellstar offers 16 mammography locations, and our patients have state-of-the-art technology on their side. We offer high-resolution breast screening, including 3D mammograms.

Women should continue not only getting annual mammograms, but also seeing their gynecologist or primary care provider for regular breast exams. Women should also be aware of physical changes within their bodies, including breast changes. Changes in the texture of the skin or a lump or pain in the breast should always be checked out by their healthcare provider.

Margie Apacible-Mancao, MSN, RN, CBCN, nurse navigator: I am so passionate about breast cancer screening—every opportunity I have I tell patients to get a screening mammogram when they’re of age. Tell someone in your circle that you’re going, then they’ll tell someone in their circle and the circle gets wider so more people will get screened.

Does it mean I have cancer if the doctor recommends a biopsy?

Dr. Sujatha Hariharan, MD, medical oncologist: When a mammogram detects an abnormality, a biopsy might be indicated. Many breast biopsies will be non-cancerous such as fibroadenomas.  

If cancer is found on a breast biopsy, there are several parts of the pathology result that the care team will utilize to make a treatment plan. For example, the presence of estrogen and progesterone receptor positivity allows the potential for hormone therapy as part of the treatment plan. The HER-2 gene is also tested for and if that is present and positive, it allows for medication directed at the HER-2 gene to be given along with chemotherapy.  

Sequencing of the various treatments for breast cancer—surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and hormone therapy—will be determined as a collaborative effort between the breast surgeon and medical oncologist.

If I’m diagnosed, who should I talk to next?

Margie: The anxiety of not knowing their diagnosis or what’s next is one of the hardest parts. At Wellstar, patients have access to a nurse navigator on the day they are recommended to have a biopsy. We make an appointment with the specialists as quickly as possible because just knowing that someone is helping them get to the next step and get that appointment fast dials down their stress level. 

Dr. Karen Xu, MD, radiation oncologist: If you are diagnosed with breast cancer, you will need to see a breast surgeon first to discuss your surgery options—lumpectomy or mastectomy; a radiation oncologist to discuss the duration of radiation treatment and whether lymph nodes should be included in the target; and a medical oncologist about whether endocrine therapy or chemotherapy is indicated and the timing of systemic therapy. Patients who desire reconstruction after mastectomy will discuss with a plastic surgeon the type and timing of reconstruction they want.

Schedule a mammogram

Find a breast imaging location near you online or call (678) 581-5900.

To live life to the fullest, men need to keep a pulse on their health stats, including their prostate numbers. Regular well checks and prostate cancer screenings with a primary care physician or urologist can identify prostate conditions—like prostate cancer—early, leading to better outcomes and higher long-term survival.

Partnering with a Wellstar doctor now means that if you are diagnosed later, you’ll have a team of prostate specialists in your court who are ready to support you faster.

For example, if you have prostate-related symptoms or an elevated prostate-specific antigen test, our Prostate Health Program offers patients access to the least invasive and most advanced testing and treatment options. Plus, patients who are diagnosed with prostate cancer will have a multidisciplinary team to provide treatment options. If needed, men can have non-invasive monitoring, minimally invasive robotic surgery or highly targeted radiation therapy at Wellstar—all of which minimize side effects compared to traditional treatments.

A better approach to prostate health

Wellstar created the Prostate Health Program to offer men a safe place to discuss sensitive health topics with less anxiety. 

One benefit of seeking care at Wellstar is that the team will minimize uncomfortable testing while giving you a best-in-class evaluation that delivers clear results. And you’ll have access to advanced genetic testing. If diagnosed with prostate cancer, patients have immediate access to a team of specialists working together to create the most personalized treatment plan.

“One great benefit of the Wellstar Prostate Program is our multidisciplinary approach to prostate care,” said Wellstar Urologist Dr. Adarsh Manjunath. “We work closely with radiation and medical oncologists to provide holistic care to our patients. The collective expertise and communication between everyone involved optimizes patient well-being.”

At the first appointment, patients meet with a urologist and a nurse navigator. Navigators help bridge the gap between office visits and medical tests. They’ll facilitate scheduling any appointments that are needed, help patients prepare and arrange any follow-up care that may be needed.

Wellstar West Georgia Hospice in LaGrange has provided dedicated, compassionate care for patients for more than thirty years. This year, the facility hosts its 35th Annual Poinsettia Sale to share the beauty of the holiday season, while also collecting contributions that directly benefit its mission.

Once again you can continue the tradition when you purchase beautiful poinsettias through this program to share with your family, friends and business associates. The cost is $15 per plant.

Each plant is hand-delivered (free local delivery) by a hospice volunteer with a personalized card recognizing you and your recipient. Delivery dates for the flowers are Monday through Thursday, December 2 - 5, 2024, in plenty of time to enjoy their beauty all throughout the holiday season.

Please visit the Poinsettia Sale Order Form page to start your order. If you have questions, please call Sandy Melton at 706-803-7335 for assistance. Note that orders more than $75 will be acknowledged showing your tax-deductible contribution.

Funds raised will be used for patient care services for hospice patients at Wellstar West Georgia Hospice, as well as those being served in their own homes, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. West Georgia Hospice provides services to all regardless of their ability to pay.

Thank you very much for supporting the ongoing care efforts of West Georgia Hospice in our community. And don't delay: the deadline to place your order is November 1, 2024.

Click, call or come in—easy online booking helps students take the first step toward taking charge of their health. Visit any of our student health locations on Campus Loop Road in Kennesaw, in University Village in Kennesaw or in University Courtyard in Marietta.

While physical health is an important part of overall wellness, it’s crucial that students look out for their mental well-being too. We offer compassionate, confidential care for mental health concerns with conveniently located offices on the Kennesaw and Marietta campuses. Call (470) 578-6644 to make an appointment. Learn more or book online at ksu-health.wellstar.org. 

This article was originally published on Atlanta Business Chronicle on July 14, 2023.

The key to avoiding health problems is prevention, and the keys to prevention are annual checkups, regular screenings and vaccinations. With the start of the next school year looming in late summer, healthcare experts in Atlanta say it’s a good time for families to get back into the routine of scheduling and keeping these important appointments—not just for children, but for parents too, especially that one parent who tends to be the primary scheduler, often the mother.

In an Atlanta Business Chronicle panel discussion in partnership with Wellstar, physicians from Wellstar and Cobb & Douglas Health District discuss why checkups are important and how families can overcome obstacles to stay on track with preventative care.

Taking care of the family and the family’s No. 1 manager

David Rubinger, Atlanta Business Chronicle market president and publisher: When we think about family wellness and how it intersects with our daily work routines, it can get very complicated, given how busy working professionals are. We’re trying to figure out a way to manage not only our children’s health, and maybe our parents’ health if we’re in the sandwich generation, but our own health. The checklist is longer and longer every day. Let’s start with the basics. We’re a few weeks away from the start of school. Dr. Stinson, what are you telling your parents of kids of school age right now?

Dr. Carrie Stinson, Chief, Pediatric Service Line, Wellstar: The summer is a great time to get caught up on all the things that fall through the cracks during the busy school year. Our lives are very hectic, and when school starts back, things get even busier.

One big thing is the annual well-child exam. Every child should have a well-child exam every single year. When you have babies and toddlers, it’s routine — you’re scheduling these frequently. When kids get older and busier, these visits may feel less important and fall off your radar.

Well visits are important every year. They focus on the comprehensive health and well-being of your child. Pediatricians focus on physical health, development, emotional, social, and even behavioral health. During these visits, the care team collects information on patient and family history, talks about developmental milestones and how your child is doing in school socially. We also assess sleep habits and nutrition. As they become adolescents, well-child exams become even more important as we ask questions about your child’s mental and sexual health.

Those are important conversations to start having and your pediatrician can be a great facilitator. Sometimes parents are uncomfortable talking about those topics with their children even at an early, pre-adolescent stage, so those well checkups are really great places to get insight on how to approach sensitive topics.

Rubinger: Dr. Stinson, since COVID, tell me what you’re seeing that’s different in terms of talking to both parents and children. I am sure the pandemic took some families off their schedules for well checkups. How has the doctor-patient pediatric conversation changed over the past couple of years?

Dr. Stinson: What we’re hearing from our pediatricians since COVID is also what we’re hearing in the news. The behavioral and mental health crisis that we’re experiencing in this country has been really impactful on children, especially teenagers. During COVID, the social isolation of being out of school for periods of time had a significant impact on adolescents. The rise in social media popularity during that time also had a negative impact on pediatric mental health.

Our pediatricians are really seeing that impact now. They’re feeling the strain our teenagers are experiencing. We’re seeing many more cases of depression and anxiety, and cases that escalate to dangerous proportions such as suicidal thoughts and actions.

We’re trying to respond to it by increasing the resources in our communities, but it’s hard to move fast enough to keep up with the demand. At Wellstar, we are developing an integrative model for behavioral health into our pediatric offices. Five of our pediatric practices will have embedded behavioral health professionals, so pediatricians can make direct referrals and patients have immediate access to behavioral health providers in their pediatric office setting.

Rubinger: Dr. Greaves, the mother might be the caretaker who takes care of the child. Most mothers would put their kid’s health ahead of their own health. Tell me what you are experiencing in terms of women’s health as it relates to those people who are the caretakers. What are the issues that they’re having to face to address their own needs?

Dr. Paula Greaves, Chief, Women’s Health Service Line, Wellstar: Women are usually considered the CEOs of their households and the drivers of healthcare in the community. Most women are the care bridge between several generations. They take care of their children, their parents, their partners and at times their communities.

Unfortunately, they sometimes forget to take care of themselves. As physicians, it is our duty to ensure that women are made aware of the warning signs their bodies may be sending them and encourage them to seek help earlier to improve health outcomes.

There are nine signs that I tell my patients to watch out for:

1. Fatigue: Most women think, “Oh, I’m tired. It’s because I’m doing too much or I’m not getting enough sleep.” But fatigue can be a sign of something more than simply lack of sleep. It could be thyroid dysfunction. It could be menstrual irregularities causing them to be anemic and thus feeling fatigued. It could be heart disease. Fatigue could also be a sign of depression or menopausal symptoms. Every household should own a blood pressure monitor, and women should know their numbers (blood pressure, weight, and last menstrual period).
2. Women should be aware of physical changes within their bodies, including breast changes. Changes in the texture of the skin or a lump or pain in the breast should always be checked out.
3. Bloating is another subtle symptom to be aware of. Most women feel bloated and think, “Oh, it’s time for my menstrual cycle, so that’s why I am bloated.” But bloating can be a sign of a gastrointestinal problem or an enlarged pelvic organ. If you have bloating that doesn’t resolve after one or two cycles, let your doctor know.
4. Chest discomfort, shortness of breath and pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, shoulder, or arm are also red flags. Heart attack signs and symptoms can be completely different in women than the typical ones seen in men. Heart disease is the number one killer of women, so it is very important that these signs are not ignored.
5. Lung cancer isn’t just a smoker’s disease. If you notice an unusual cough or wheezing, have it checked out.
6. Weight changes: Either too much weight gain or unexpected weight loss should be mentioned to your physician. Fluid retention can also affect weight gain.
7. Blood in the urine or stool should be reported.
8. Irregular or heavy periods—heavy enough to change pads every hour or soil through clothes.
9. Skin changes such as discolorations, new moles or growths are definitely worth having a professional take a look.

Rubinger:  Is there ever a situation, Dr. Stinson, where you are treating a child and you see a mother whom you can tell is having health issues, even without an exam? As a pediatrician, do you ever say, “Hey, I think you need to get that checked out?”

Dr. Stinson: As pediatricians, we really focus on the whole family. While we’re seeing the child, we’re also interacting with the parents, guardians, grandparents, or whoever’s bringing the child in to see us on a routine basis.

I think we often get questions from family members about their own health because of exactly what Dr. Greaves mentioned. People think, “I am in a doctor’s office. I don’t have time to go to my own doctor. Let me just see if I can get this question answered.

While being careful not to give medical advice to a patient who is not ours or who is outside of our scope of practice as pediatricians, we are very willing to give recommendations on where that person should seek care. One benefit of our health system is we have the expertise to take care of patients from before they’re born until they need end-of-life care. We have a scope of providers within our system who can help with pretty much any problem that might come up. I would not hesitate to refer a patient to Dr. Greaves and say, “This mom is really worried about her own health. Can you please help? She’s very busy, but her symptoms sound concerning. Can you maybe work her into your schedule?

I practice in the hospital, and we have sent several parents to the emergency room in our hospital for their own health while we’re taking care of their child in the pediatric unit.

How providers are addressing rising mental health needs

Rubinger: Dr. Memark, you get to look at this from the standpoint of two counties that are in great need of public health support. What are the trends that you’re seeing at a 30,000-foot view? What do you see within your communities that your organization tries to address?

Dr. Janet Memark, District Health Director, Cobb & Douglas Health District: From my point of view, one of the big things that we do at Cobb & Douglas Public Health is a large community health assessment. Dr. Greaves is actually a member of our board. We just finished a 2016-2020 five-year assessment. This was at the beginning of the pandemic, so keep that in mind. Our next assessment will capture 2021-2025. One of the things that was surprising to me was looking at causes of death in our communities. The assessment showed that in older people, it’s what you’d expect. For example, in Cobb County for those age 75 and older, the leading causes of death are things like vascular disease, stroke and Alzheimer’s. For ages 65 to 74, it’s heart disease and cancer. But when we started looking at the lower age groups, I was very surprised at what I saw:

• For people in their 30s and 40s, the leading cause of death was accidental poisonings, and that includes drug abuse and drug overdoses. Number two was suicide.
• For ages 25 to 34, number one was overdoses and poisonings and number two was suicide.
• For ages 20 to 24, motor vehicle accidents were number one. Suicide was also number two for this group.
• For 15 to 19, suicide took the number one spot. Number two was motor vehicle accidents.
• For 10 to 14, number one was motor vehicle accidents followed by suicide.

After the timeframe studied in the assessment, we went through two more years of the pandemic, which affected almost everyone’s mental health in one way or another. We’ve heard on the news how pediatricians in medical school are now being trained on how to provide more extensive mental healthcare because there just aren’t enough mental health experts.

It’s wonderful to hear Dr. Stinson say they are really trying to bolster up mental health screenings for our young people during their pediatric visits. I’d also like to add that we have high rates of maternal mortality in Georgia. The state Department of Public Health did a deep dive and found that mental health is a huge component of maternal mortality. You see these same themes of mental health running through several different medical specialties.

Wellstar CEO Candice Saunders visits Small TALK program

Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center has been recognized with an “A” Hospital Safety Score by The Leapfrog Group, an independent national nonprofit run by employers and other large purchasers of health benefits. The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is a letter grade assigned to U.S. hospitals based on data calculated using 26 measures evaluating the hospital’s overall capacity to keep patients safe from infections, injuries, and medical and medication errors.

“Patient safety is at the forefront of everything we do at Kennestone, and we are pleased to be recognized by the Leapfrog Group for earning an A grade,” said Callie Andrews, Wellstar Kennestone Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “Not only does an A grade affirm the high quality of care that we deliver to our patients every day, but this prestigious ranking also honors the critical role that our physicians, nurses and caregivers play in keeping our communities healthy and safe.”

The Hospital Safety Score was compiled under the guidance of the nation’s leading experts on patient safety. The first and only hospital safety rating to be peer-reviewed in the Journal of Patient Safety (April 2013), Hospital Safety Score is designed to give the public information they can use to protect themselves and their families.

To see how Wellstar Kennestone’s scores compare nationally and locally, visit the Hospital Safety Score website at www.hospitalsafetyscore.org, which provides information on how the public can protect themselves and loved ones during a hospital stay. Local hospitals’ scores are also available on the free mobile app, available at www.hospitalsafetyscore.org.

Wellstar Health System and Georgia State University’s Department of Respiratory Therapy in the Byrdine F. Lewis College of Nursing and Health Professions announce a $320,000 grant to expand the pipeline of respiratory therapy (RT) professionals.

"Respiratory therapists are a vital part of the care team and are in critical demand – a trend exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and felt throughout the healthcare industry," said Julie Teer, president of the Wellstar Foundation. "The Wellstar Foundation is proud to increase the workforce pipeline by collaborating with and funding Georgia State to hire an additional faculty member to lead a new clinical cohort of RT students at Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center."

The faculty shortage is a major barrier to increasing program enrollment and adding this position will result in a 20 percent increase in the program’s enrollment capacity.

"Highly educated respiratory therapists will always be needed, but due to the pandemic and the burnout of healthcare practitioners, the job market is wide open for new graduates," said Dr. Doug Gardenhire, chair of the Department of Respiratory Therapy.

Over 150,000 respiratory therapists work in the United States, and 92,000 are likely to retire by 2030. In addition to faculty shortage, demand for professionals that outpaces the capacity of degree programs also contributes to the national shortage of respiratory therapists. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of RT positions will grow by at least 19 percent through 2029 due to an aging population and increased cases of respiratory illness.

"There are more than 17,000 advertisements for needed respiratory therapy positions around the country, and the need is no different in metro Atlanta," said Gardenhire. "This partnership with Wellstar allows us to educate and graduate more baccalaureate and master’s degree prepared respiratory therapists."

Georgia State’s RT program is one of only two U.S. programs to receive the American Association for Respiratory Care Apex Award for three consecutive years. The award recognizes respiratory care in clinical care facilities and educational programs that highlight best practices with evidence-based medicine. Over the past decade, every Georgia State RT graduate has earned a 100 percent pass rate on the licensure exam.

"This grant helps strengthen our relationship with Wellstar and will bring more of our students into the Wellstar system for clinical practice and potentially for employment after graduation," said Dr. Huanbiao Mo, dean of the Lewis College. “Congratulations to RT faculty and leadership for forging this successful clinical partnership."

Explore how the Lewis College at Georgia State is producing respiratory therapists and other professionals prepared for the frontlines of healthcare at lewis.gsu.edu. See how corporate and foundation partner and individual donor dollars are making a difference at Georgia State at giving.gsu.edu. Learn how Wellstar Foundation, through philanthropy and partnership, is making a meaningful difference in the health of our communities at wellstar.org/foundation.

Click to watch 11 Alive coverage of partnership between Wellstar and Georgia State University. 

RSVP by contacting Sarah Hersey at (706) 845-3848 or [email protected]

RSVP by contacting Pam Plasket at (770) 410-4556 or [email protected]

The care teams at Wellstar are dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of everyone we serve, and we thank our team members for their commitment to world-class care. We also thank Cobb residents for trusting the expertise of Wellstar to keep their families healthy and provide them with more than healthcare, PeopleCare.
Several Wellstar team members have been voted among the Best of Cobb:

• Bruce Alayof, MD
  Wellstar Center for Cardiovascular Care
  Best Cardiac/Vascular Specialist, Second Place


• Kyle Brown
  Wellstar Health Place
  Best Personal Trainer, Second Place


• Ryan Breshears, PhD
  Wellstar Clinical Psychology
  Best Psychologist, Second Place


• Ryan Cantwell, MD
  Wellstar Internal Medicine
  Best Family Physician, First Place
  Best General Practice Doctor, Second Place


• Kozue Cunningham
  Wellstar Health Place
  Best Massage Therapist, First Place


• Diedre Greene, MD
  Wellstar Pediatrics
  Best Pediatrician, Second Place


• Amy Gross
  Wellstar Outpatient Rehabilitation
  Best Physical Therapist, First Place


• Ashish Kapila, DPM
  Wellstar Podiatry
  Best Podiatry, Third Place


• Amy Kewin, MD
  Wellstar Pediatrics
  Best Pediatrician, First Place


• Keisha McClure
  Wellstar Health Place
  Best Massage Therapist, Third Place


• Eduardo Molinary, MD
  Wellstar Pulmonary Medicine
  Best Pulmonary Medicine, Third Place


• David Parks, MD
  Wellstar ENT
  Best ENT Specialist, First Place


• Dhaval Patel, MD
  Wellstar Center for Cardiovascular Care
  Best Cardiac/Vascular Specialist, Third Place


• Daniel Saade, MD
  Wellstar Pediatrics
  Best Pediatrician, Third Place


• Carolyn Smallwood, DO
  Wellstar Primary Care
  Best General Practice Doctor, First Place
  Best Family Physician, Second Place


• Randall Webb, MD
  Wellstar OB/GYN
  Best OB/GYN, Third Place


• Wellstar Atherton Place
  Senior Living and Memory Care
  Best Nursing Home, Third Place


• Wellstar Health Place
  Best Fitness Center/Gym, First Place


• Wellstar Health Place
  Best Yoga/Barre/Pilates Studio, Third Place


• Wellstar Health Place
  A Healthier You- Medical Fitness
  Best Weight Loss Clinic, Third Place


• Wellstar Pediatrics at 3707 Largent Way
  Best Pediatric Group, First Place


• Wellstar Pediatrics at 760 Kennesaw Avenue
  Best Pediatric Group, Second Place


• Wellstar Pediatrics at 121 Marble Mill Road
  Best Pediatric Group, Third Place

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in 10 Americans have diabetes. Of that group, 90 to 95% have type 2 diabetes. Because this condition often develops in people over 45, getting screened and getting the best treatment to live your healthiest life is essential.

"Diabetes is a chronic and complex condition, and treatments are continuously changing," said Dr. Georgia Forrest, Wellstar primary care physician. "Teaming up with a primary care provider who personalizes your care plan to you and everything that makes you unique should be a top priority."

Whether you currently have type 2 diabetes, a family history of the disease or feel concerned about your overall well-being, you can take proactive steps to manage your health. Here are some key facts to help you better understand the relationship between diabetes and good health.

1. Undiagnosed diabetes costs you money & health
Not knowing you have diabetes carries high medical costs. Undiagnosed diabetes can increase your risk for death and other medical issues.

Diabetes was the eighth leading cause of death in 2021, the most recent data reported by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. And according to the American Diabetes Association, having diabetes doubles your risk for heart disease and stroke—heart disease is the number one killer in the U.S. 

2. A diagnosis and personalized treatment can save your life
Knowing you have diabetes and then working to manage your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol effectively can lower your risk of death and help you live a better quality of life.

3. Getting screened for diabetes is easy
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force now recommends getting screened with a simple blood test at the age of 35 for people with no symptoms but who are overweight or obese. Even if you have no signs or family history of diabetes, it can lurk in your numbers. Getting screened can help you catch it early and even prevent it altogether.

Consider getting screened for diabetes if you:

• Are obese or overweight
• Are physically inactive 
• Have a parent or full sibling with diabetes
• Are an African American, Latino, Native American, Asian American or Pacific Islander 
• Have a history of cardiovascular disease
• Have hypertension
• Have blood work that shows an HDL of less than 35 mg/dl or triglycerides greater than 250 mg/dl
• Have a diagnosis of polycystic ovarian syndrome
• Have other medical conditions that lead to insulin resistance

4. Some people have pre-diabetes
If your screening shows that you have pre-diabetes, your blood sugar levels run higher than average but aren't within the range of type 2 diabetes. However, you have an increased risk of getting type 2 diabetes.

Identifying that diabetes is around the corner can help you stop it before it starts.

5. Diabetes treatment plans should be unique
When crafting a plan to address diabetes, the conversation must be about more than the numbers.

"Additional diseases or conditions you may be experiencing in conjunction with your diabetes should also become part of your individualized health plan," Dr. Forrest said.

A complete medical history helps your healthcare provider understand how other medications and treatments may interact with your symptoms and treatments related to type 2 diabetes.

6. Lifestyle modifications can make a big impact on diabetes
Lifestyle modifications may involve slight changes to your weight, the amount of exercise you get, your diet and even your sleeping patterns.

Changes don't have to be major. For instance, your doctor may suggest you lose around 10 pounds and exercise for 30 minutes five days a week.

Our primary care providers work with patients one-on-one but can also refer patients with pre-diabetes and diabetes to Wellstar Diabetes Services to help prevent the onset or manage the effects of diabetes.

7. S.M.A.R.T. diabetes treatment plans
According to Dr. Forrest, your overall plan should include "specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and timely (S.M.A.R.T.) goals and involve shared decision-making between you and your care provider. There should be plenty of follow-ups to keep the conversation fluid and open to modification."

8. Know your numbers — and acronyms (A1C, CGM, TIR)
Should your screening lead to a type 2 diabetes diagnosis, conversations with your health providers will focus on several acronyms and numbers.

"Know your ABCD’s of diabetes," said Dr. Forrest. "Your A1C, blood pressure, cholesterol and the medications you are taking. Knowing these facts about your health will be key to your success."

• A = Hemoglobin A1C goal is <7 
• B = Blood pressure goal is <130/80 
• C = Cholesterol goal is to keep bad cholesterol <100 
• D = Drugs 

Keeping the A1C low and within an optimal range will help prevent complications like eye damage, blindness, kidney failure and nerve damage. 

A mainstay for type 2 diabetes management centers around constant glucose level monitoring. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) provides readings every few minutes via a sensor inserted just below your skin. Monitoring glucose is a common way to help regulate insulin in your body, giving you the readings you need to self-adjust with insulin when appropriate. Average glucose levels should be 100 mg/dl or lower though they can increase if you've just eaten.

New developments introduced the importance of tracking Time in Range (TIR). Along with monitoring your glucose levels, TIR may impact your customized plan for maintenance. According to Dr. Forrest, the goal for TIR is 70% or more.

9. Receive individualized diabetes care at Wellstar
For diabetes management, a personalized, proactive approach can make all the difference. Wellstar primary care providers are here to partner with you to help prevent or manage diabetes, heart disease and many other conditions.

"A true patient-centered approach for managing diabetes is the key to the future of this disease," Dr. Forrest said. "Get screened and speak up when it comes to your care. Opportunities for personalized and individualized medicine should be a part of your treatment plan as you move forward."

Find a primary care provider near you.

This article was originally published on Atlanta Business Chronicle on February 9, 2023.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, claiming more lives than all forms of cancer combined. Heart disease and stroke are among the forms of cardiovascular disease. In 2019, nearly 900,000 people died of cardiovascular disease in the United States, according to the American Heart Association. In Georgia, about 1 in 3 deaths are caused by cardiovascular disease, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health. Most of these deaths are premature and preventable. Atlanta Business Chronicle recently talked with a panel of experts from Wellstar Health System and the American Heart Association about ways to accelerate heart care progress through diversity and inclusion and finding better ways to fight heart disease through unconventional methods, early detection and education and through the workplace.

Panelists & moderator

Moderator: David Rubinger, Market President & Publisher, Atlanta Business Chronicle

Rubinger: What is the best way to define heart disease? And what does it mean for our culture?

Dr. Vivek Nautiyal: Let me start by saying that heart disease or cardiovascular disease is a very broad term which include a wide variety of conditions affecting our heart and blood vessels. The most common type is coronary artery disease, which is usually caused by cholesterol plaque clogging the arteries, supplying blood to our heart. This is the number one cause of death in the U.S. and across the world.

Some other types of heart disease include heart failure, which affects the heart muscle pump, heart valve disease and heart rhythm disorders affecting electrical activity of the heart. Vascular disease includes aortic aneurysm, and disease affecting neck arteries going to the brain or arteries going to the legs. All of these would broadly come under heart disease.

These conditions affect the ability of the heart to function properly and can lead to serious health problems such as heart attacks or stroke.

Rubinger: How much of that would we consider to be genetics and how much would we consider to be lifestyle, leading to the disease itself?

Nautiyal: Genetics is important, but I would say the vast majority are lifestyle-related. And that is why it's killing so many people. Heart disease is often the result of lifestyle factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, mental stress.

About 4 in 10 U.S. adults currently are obese; 3 in 10 have high cholesterol; 4 in 10 have hypertension; 1 in 10 have diabetes. So, this is an epidemic. Adolescent and childhood obesity is on the rise and we in Georgia are sitting in the diabetes belt of the U.S.

Lack of awareness of these common risk factors often leads to delay in seeking preventive or medical care. You can have hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes for years or decades without knowing, which is why they're called silent killers. Unless you check for them, you may be blissfully unaware of your risk, until one day it leads to a major event.

Rubinger: It's very common to hear about examples where sometimes it can be genetic and other times it can be a lifestyle cause. Dr. Sacks, in your career, how have you viewed this whole conundrum of how to best approach heart disease?

Dr. Harvey Sacks: Getting back to your previous question, one form of heart disease we did not mention is congenital heart disease—malformations of the heart and blood vessels which occur at birth. As regards to lifestyle, when I started practicing cardiology, I saw patients in Paulding County. At that time, it was a rural community, but it is not so rural anymore but rather an extension of Atlanta. Many members of that community had a lifestyle consisting of poor dietary habits, lack of exercise, cigarette smoking and use of smokeless tobacco.

We began an educational process to teach people about healthy living. We socialized this into the community by giving talks to schools, churches and Rotary Club meetings.

The community bought into these new concepts, and we have made great progress. We have made significant changes as a result of this education in heart attack rates and cardiac mortality in that community.

Rubinger: Do we have any data to support that?

Sacks: We do. Since we have been seeing patients in Paulding County, data show a decrease in cardiac mortality. People understand the risk factors that contribute to the development of heart disease. And this trend is not unique to Paulding County. Similar efforts have been successful throughout the country. The American Heart Association (AHA) has helped us educate millions of people, and as a result, people are adopting healthier choices.

Unconventional weapons: Collaboration, technology & more

Rubinger: From a medical standpoint, what have you learned from research that has helped deliver better outcomes?

Nautiyal: As Dr. Sacks was mentioning, we have made huge advancements in improving cardiovasular mortality and morbidity, especially in the Medicare population. There's clear evidence of that in the last two decades. One area where we are lagging behind is in the young population. Unlike the older population, in the younger population the event rates are either flat or going up.

One of the reasons for this is that traditional risk factor calculators tend to underestimate cardiovascular risk in young people. By young people, I mean below 50. So, if you are below 50 and you have family members who had premature events or if you have very high cholesterol, or if you are a woman with certain complications during pregnancy, then be aware that traditional risk factors will underestimate your cardiac risk. Also, younger people tend to have this sense of invincibility. You don't have any symptoms. You think, “I’m doing OK,” not realizing that silently, processes are going on in your body which one day will lead to a catastrophic event.

As part of an NIH-funded four-year study, led by the Mayo Clinic, we at Wellstar are implementing a shared decision-making electronic tool called CV Prevent Choice in our primary care offices. This enables the patient and physician to have a discussion about their personal risk for heart attack over next 10 years. It shows in an easy-to-understand graphic the impact of lifestyle measures, like healthy diet and exercise and—if needed—medications, in reducing their cardiac risk. We collaborated with the Mayo team to include factors on this risk calculator, like family history, women-specific risk factors and coronary calcium score, which alerts the clinician and patient that actual risk may be higher than indicated.

Another area where we in the U.S. lag behind is utilization and adherence to easily available life-saving therapies. A recent study showed that in over 600,000 commercially insured patients with established cardiovascular disease in the U.S., the utilization of appropriate, life-saving medications, such as statins, was low, despite overwhelming evidence of the benefit and established clinical guidelines. Only 1 in 5 patients received appropriate high-strength statins, despite these being relatively inexpensive generic medicines. Younger patients and female patients were less likely to receive these therapies. Furthermore, patient adherence, as measured by prescription refill rates, was low.

To better understand some of the factors behind this and also improve our quality of care, we at the Wellstar Center for Cardiovascular Care are honored to have been chosen by the American Heart Association, to be 1 of 6 healthcare organizations across the country to participate in an integrated cardiovascular cholesterol management initiative, a learning collaborative grant. As part of this initiative, we will track patients admitted with heart attacks and follow them as they transition home. We will pilot programs to get patients to their treatment goals within a short time after discharge and improve patient outcomes.

Rubinger: Mr. Mooney, why aren’t people taking their statins? Is this part of the problem? Are people making bad decisions based on lack of education about what the risk factors are?

Mooney: There are a lot of factors that play into why patients are not adhering to taking statins or medications. Some of those barriers are health literacy, access to healthcare, and the affordability of medications. The expansion of Medicaid could address some of these factors. We at the American Heart Association are supporting the states that are advocating for Medicaid expansion.

Rubinger: What have been the major technological changes that have really made your jobs more effective or easier?
Sacks: There are different kinds of technology. One type is the evolution of the treatment of coronary heart disease. We are not only able to diagnose blockages in coronary arteries, but in a large proportion of the patients we can treat them with stents, reserving surgery for more extensive and complex heart disease. We are treating patients with valve abnormalities without having to open their chests, thus providing a much less invasive procedure.

A spot on the lung, or pulmonary nodule, is sometimes found incidentally on a CT which was ordered for another reason. We have an AI (artificial intelligence) program to follow and surveil these nodules for the possible development of lung cancer. And in addition, some of these patients have been found to have enlargement of their aorta (known as an aortic aneurysm). AI can identify these patients from a narrative report. They can then be referred to medical and surgical specialists for treatment. This helps prevent an otherwise fatal event from rupture of the aneurysm.

The other part is virtual visits. We believe that virtual visits are the future. There are so many people who for many, many reasons cannot come in to see the doctor, whether it's a transportation issue, whether it's having childcare, finances, whatever it may be. We want to bring those technologies to the person when they can't come to us. We believe that we can really influence people's lives greatly by being able to do that technologically by virtual visits.

Rubinger: And virtual medicine was something really born out of the pandemic. Is the concept of virtual medicine here to stay, Dr. Nautiyal?

Nautiyal: I believe so. The idea was there before, but the pandemic forced us into implementing it a very short time span. Now I think it's going to stay, but in a hybrid model. In-person conversation and physical exams still have meaning in spite of all the technology. An example of a hybrid model would be if someone was hospitalized recently for heart failure and now needs frequent visits for adjusting medications, they don't have to come in every time. We can do virtual visits to adjust the medications and get them to their goal.

Sacks: Psychological ill health can be as important as physical disease. Wellstar has introduced a Cardiovascular Behavioral Health program which can in part be virtual. It integrates behavioral health with physical wellbeing. We can help patients identify emotional problems which can contribute to physical maladies. Obesity is a prime example.

Obesity is often stigmatized, but it is actually a disease. And when you recognize it as a disease, you can treat it as such, similar to how we can treat other conditions. We can do a lot of this support virtually. We also have medications to curb obesity and even surgery for complex cases. If we eliminate the stigma associated with certain conditions, we can better treat them. We need to recognize emotional triggers which can lead to physical medical issues.

Prioritizing early detection

Rubinger: You mentioned earlier younger people who may think they’re invincible. These are the people who need to learn about early detection, earlier on in their lives. What is the recommendation you all give to the younger population to start monitoring their own heart health to know whether they need help? What are the steps younger people need to take to make sure they are addressing these issues?

Nautiyal: I would like to highlight two key groups who are at a very high personal risk of heart attacks or strokes. One is familial hypercholesterolemia. This is a genetic condition where you have high cholesterol levels since early childhood. The way to identify this is to know your cholesterol numbers and know your family history. Familial hypercholesterolemia, FH for short, is not as uncommon as we thought. One in 250 people have FH, and only about 20% of people with FH have been identified or recognized. This leaves a vast reservoir of undiagnosed and undertreated people. If you are a man with untreated FH, there is a 50% chance of having a heart attack by age 50, that is basically a coin flip. Women with untreated FH have a one in three chance of having a heart attack by age 60.

The second group is people with family history of premature heart attacks or strokes.

If you are in one of these two groups, I would strongly urge you to seek preventive cardiology consultation.

Regardless of whether or not you belong to one of these two groups, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of following a heart healthy dietary pattern, exercising regularly, not smoking, getting adequate sleep and knowing your numbers—blood pressure, cholesterol and sugar levels.

On a positive note: know that your DNA is not your destiny. If you treat FH adequately early on in life, you can have a healthy and long life without any cardiac problems. Similarly, and this has been well studied, even among people who have a cluster of genetic mutations predisposing them to heart attacks (high polygenic score), following a heart-healthy lifestyle can reduce their risk by 50%. Again, your DNA is not your destiny.

At Wellstar, we also offer a robust 'Know Your Heart' screening program for the general public to schedule an appointment. The advanced version of this includes a CT coronary calcium score. For specialized care, we have a Preventive Cardiology office, where we offer evidence-based, patient and family-centered care with a multidisciplinary team including a cardiologist, dietician, clinical pharmacist and geneticist. Our cardio-genetics program has the highest volume of patients in Georgia.

Mooney: Through programs like Kids Heart Challenge at the American Heart Association, which partners with schools to help prepare children for success by empowering them to embrace a healthy lifestyle—eat well, move more and stay tobacco free. The Kids Heart Challenge prepares elementary students for future success both physically and emotionally. Through cardio-pumping physical activities, kids learn the importance of being heart-healthy. Participating schools and/or teachers receive discounted certificates for PE equipment, direct contributions to their school and new curriculum resources for whole-child centered learning. Healthy students are better learners; teachers and schools have a major influence on students’ health, and the Kids Heart Challenge is designed to support and improve those efforts.

One other AHA program, Target BP (blood pressure), using the M.A.P. (measure accurately; act rapidly; partner with patients, communities) Framework is connecting the community to clinics. This program here at the American Heart Association is designed to work with clinicians with improving how blood pressure is measured, developing treatment algorithms to improve uncontrolled blood pressure. This program’s framework was used to train barbers and stylists in an initiative called “Do You Know Your Numbers?”

We worked in barber shops and salons, faith-based and community-based organizations to install blood-pressure monitors and train them on how to use them. In the barbershop we talk about sports, families, children, so within that conversation it was simple to bring up “do you know your numbers?” And once they asked that question, and their clients are interested in knowing their numbers, they are able to screen those clients for high blood pressure. The people who need medical care are connected with health centers or clinics.

It has worked and it has grown and it's nationwide. We sent this national hypertension project throughout so many different communities, whether rural or urban. We find that bringing in that community component helps get patients to seeing their clinicians.

Education to reduce the numbers

Rubinger: Education about cardiovascular disease risk factors clearly plays a big part in helping people avoid making bad decisions. What programs or initiatives have had the biggest impact?

Sacks: If there is a group of people that we have significantly impacted, it is women. Mr. Mooney can speak to this too. You know, if you ask a woman what is she most likely to die from, she will probably tell you breast cancer or uterine cancer. But the truth is she is most likely to die from heart disease. The AHA has highlighted this with their Wear Red Day events and other programs. Women have come to understand their cardiac risk, and that their symptoms of heart disease may differ from those of men.

Mooney: I would agree with you on that. The information, as it relates to women dying of heart disease, is really the approach of addressing social determinants of health.

And quality improvements are really about self-management. For example, with the blood pressure project, it is a way of educating the patients, empowering the patients to take control of their blood pressure through what the doctors have shared with them. Talking to and educating these patients, as in the example Dr. Sacks gave in Paulding County, helps them know what are those factors that impact their health, such as healthy eating, access to care, also access to medication.

We're discovering in this hypertension research project that these populations would not have had access to blood pressure monitors outside of the doctor's office to get true blood pressure readings. That's self-measurement. Now these devices, when they check their blood pressure, it automatically links up into their EMR systems. It's all about time: the patient comes from that (screening) to a follow-up appointment. Doctors have a real clear big picture of what the patient’s true blood pressure readings are, and that's where it goes into better treatment plans as it relates to physical activity, diet, and so forth.

Sacks: That recent study involving stationing pharmacists in predominantly African-American owned barber shops demonstrated the power of education. They screened patrons’ blood pressure. A large number of men, with no prior medical history, were found to have significant hypertension (high blood pressure). These individuals were then placed on medication. It was an amazing study because they were able to identify, educate and treat these patients thus reducing their risk of heart attack and stroke.

Rubinger: The key here is my numbers. My primary care physician needs be looking at those numbers closely, even though I am a younger person, because they're the bridge to getting referred to take care of these conditions. Is the primary care system addressing the hard health issues in cardiac care?

Nautiyal: When we started the Preventive Cardiology Program about two years ago, we took a holistic or multi-pronged approach for this very reason. When thinking of cardiovascular risk in the population, you can imagine a pyramid. At the base of the pyramid are people with traditional risk factors like obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol. As you move up this pyramid, you will have more serious risk factors—for example, diabetes—and at the tip of the pyramid would be people with familial hypercholesterolemia or family history for premature heart disease, who are fewer in comparison to the base, but have highest personal risk.

We'll make the most impact by focusing on the base, because that's where the most patients are and that can be addressed adequately at the primary care level or through community-led initiatives.

And we at the Wellstar Preventive Cardiology Program are engaging with our primary care colleagues to accomplish this through the initiatives I mentioned earlier, helping them in their own preventive strategies and identifying those at the tip of the pyramid, with higher personal risk who will benefit from specialized preventive cardiology care.

Mooney: That's what the American Heart Association is all about: bringing awareness on heart disease to rural and urban communities and vulnerable populations. We are developing science based tools and resources for clinicians and providers to keep them informed with the current research and what's going on out there, as well as providing educational tools in all languages for their patient population.

We discovered that patients heard the numbers but didn't know what they meant and didn't know how they impacted their bodies. We design educational materials for these patients to really understand the consequences of high blood pressure for any literacy level. For example, in some workshops with patients and the community, we may use infographics of a home water hose connected to a street fire hydrant as an example of blood vessels to the heart and/or a boxer beating the kidney to give a visual of what high blood pressure does to the body organs. Blood pressure has impacts on your entire body. Giving the visual, just keeping it simple and straight to the point.

Rubinger: It's all about trust, right? They have to trust the medical system. There are certain communities that in the past have not trusted the medical establishment.

Mooney: Absolutely. That's why we are such a big proponent of diversity in the workplace and bringing young scholars, HBCU scholars, historical black institutions and biomedical students into this arena, connecting them with cardiologists and scientists throughout their undergrad, up into medical school and up into their careers. That's key. And that's important because getting out there in the community is key to building that trust. People trust people who are very familiar with their environment.

Expanding heart care to diverse groups

Rubinger: That need to build trust between the medical profession and certain communities leads me to another issue: the disparity in different groups when it comes to obtaining medical care. How can our cardiac experts help close the gap in this area?

Mooney: The AHA has put a lot of money and research and grants focused on science-based solutions to address health inequalities through, for example, our Health Equity Research Network on Prevention of Hypertension.

I'm research-focused on cardio and oncology working in underserved communities and bringing forward awareness of the connection of heart disease and cancer, as well as putting our money back into the community to support community-based organizations that are addressing social determinants of health that could assist with improving overall cardiovascular health as it relates to addressing food insecurity, vaping advocacy work that we do in school systems throughout the country and also where we are invested into people. We're working with our historically black colleges and universities, identifying those underrepresented in the medical field and enlightening them to also become representatives in the medical field to help improve overall health and communities throughout the nation. We've been committed to that, and we're very much committed to that.

As it relates to the training for our providers and clinicians through quality improvement programs such as “Get Down With Your Blood Pressure” and our cholesterol control program as well, we are providing the research and the educational tools for providers and for patients to assist health systems. We'll start on improving blood pressure with other health systems throughout the United States and particularly in the metro Atlanta area.

Sacks: If we needed a reminder about health equity, certainly the pandemic provided us with that experience. The mortality from COVID was much higher in the African-American and Latino communities. There is a saying that a parent is only as happy as their least happy child. Similarly, the medical community should only be satisfied if everyone has access to healthcare.

We must do a lot more than we are doing to ensure a better distribution of our resources. That is our obligation as healthcare providers. We need to deliver healthcare to those who are unable to come to us, but who nonetheless are in need of our services. We need to go to them.

Winning in the workplace

Rubinger: How important is the employer towards helping deliver on some of these messages to their employees?

Sacks: From the business standpoint, employers need to offer more health and wellness opportunities for their employees. And why is that? Because if they do, their workers will spend more time at work and less time at home, sick. They will spend less time in the emergency room because of adopting a healthier lifestyle and medical conditions will be identified sooner. The more businesses can promote these kinds of internal programs, the more an employee realizes 'my employer really cares about me; they really want me to be healthy.' It's a win-win for everyone, so those programs need to be much more widespread and offered to more people.

Mooney: The American Heart Association has workplace programs where we work with employers throughout the nation and throughout Georgia. Also we work with organizations just in in terms of broadening or expanding the pool of applicants, or those in leadership, to be able to be a representation of the community in which they serve.

You’re considered obese when your body mass index (BMI) reaches 30.0 or higher. Sometimes that means you gain 15 pounds, and nobody notices you’ve gotten much bigger. Sometimes it means you have a visible weight problem.

For U.S. adults aged 20 and over, there’s a 41.9% prevalence of obesity according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That most likely makes it more common than you suspected. And, even if you don’t feel like you’re severely overweight, being obese—according to the numbers—means opening the door to a long list of potential health risks.

So, if you can’t stop gaining weight or simply aren’t seeing the pounds come off no matter what you do, it’s time to consult a primary care doctor or advanced practice professional (APP).

Understanding what causes chronic weight gain

“Physicians previously thought obesity was only due to overeating and less exercise,” said Dr. Alicia Shelly, a Wellstar primary care provider. “The advice was always to move more and eat less, but it never guaranteed they would lose significant weight.”

In recent years, there’s been a shift in understanding weight gain, where it can stem from and how broad the range of categories really is. You can be obese because of:

• Medical conditions
• Depression or anxiety
• Thyroid issues
• Genetics
• Immune conditions
• Environmental issues

The factors that impact your weight gain drastically affect your options for treatment and what lifestyle changes you need to make to see a difference.

The one constant of obesity

Even with so many factors potentially causing obesity, the one constant is its negative impact on your health.

“There are more than 200 complications that accompany obesity,” Dr. Shelly said. 

These include more serious issues like heart disease, liver disease, hypertension and diabetes, but also other risks like reproductive disorders, sleep apnea, joint pain and mood disorders.

“Losing only 5-10% of your current weight can prove beneficial at reducing the risk of many of these obesity-related complications,” Dr. Shelly shared.

Reducing your weight by just 2.5% percent can help lower your risk of diabetes, and losing just 5% percent of your weight can improve your overall quality of life.

Having the weight conversation with your provider

Being overweight—and talking about it—can sometimes be difficult. You may feel embarrassed or that your weight gain reflects poorly on you. However, seeing that so many factors can cause weight gain that may be out of your control, there’s no reason to fear this type of conversation. What’s important though, is having a doctor or APP you trust and who supports you.

Tips for discussing weight with your doctor

1. Be ready to talk about your weight. This conversation may include answering questions that feel uncomfortable to you but will help your doctor provide the right level of care.
2. Listen carefully to the health risks associated with your weight and be open to creating a strategy for even a modest weight loss, like 5-10 pounds.
3. Participate in the creation of your treatment plan. Consider your doctor's recommendations, and speak up about what will or won’t work for you.
4. Be open to losing weight at a realistic rate.

Your expectations for what weight loss should look like may be different than your health provider. However, it’s sometimes necessary to put your assumptions about weight loss aside. Use the information your doctor gives you to make an educated choice as to what’s best for your overall health.

There’s no rush to lose weight. What’s important is making positive changes that you can commit to indefinitely that will take weight off and allow you to keep it off.

What a weight loss plan may look like

Many weight loss plans begin with lifestyle changes. These can include changing how you handle stress, keeping a food journal or focusing on portion control. You may even have to add or remove certain foods or beverages from your diet.

With these changes should also come a plan for staying vigilant even when life throws a curveball to your routine.

“It is common for people to get overwhelmed with the challenges during their weight loss journey and quit,” Dr. Shelly said. “This is why a piece of your weight loss plan will include addressing potential challenges and mapping out ways to overcome them.”

Appetite suppressants may also assist with an effective weight loss plan. New weight management options have come on the market in recent years. Your doctor may prescribe an FDA-approved medication, but it’s good to know that most offer an average weight loss of anywhere between 6-15%, and all carry the possibility of side effects that range from insomnia to nausea to constipation.

Work closely with your doctor before taking any medication, and only use what they prescribe.

Beginning your weight loss journey

Once you’re motivated to start losing weight, the first step on your journey is to create a road map with a qualified medical professional as your guide. Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician or search for a primary care provider near you.

Wellstar Paulding Medical Center now offers spine surgery, giving patients in Paulding County and surrounding areas access to expert care for spinal conditions. 

Spine surgery can help people like patient Ulysses Price find relief from chronic pain and get back to the activities they enjoy. 

“Low back pain is such a common complaint among patients, and there are a limited number of specialists who are able to address these concerns,” said Wellstar Neurosurgeon Dr. Phillip Parry. 

If you are experiencing neck or back pain or managing a spinal condition, Wellstar’s Neuro Care team will work with you to create a personalized care plan and decide if surgery is the most effective treatment option. Wellstar’s spine surgeons help patients with a variety of spinal conditions, including scoliosis, sciatica, arthritis, herniated disks and spinal deformities.  Our spine surgeons perform cervical disk replacements and cervical fusions for cervical neck pain syndromes and offer both simple and complex spine surgical options for patients with low back pain syndromes. 

Surgeons at Wellstar Paulding Medical Center also perform peripheral nerve decompression surgery for patients with carpal tunnel syndrome and other compression neuropathies. 

“Wellstar offers a unique opportunity for patients to receive comprehensive, compassionate and close-to-home care for whatever disease process they may have,” Dr. Parry said. “The spine care provided here at Wellstar is world-class.” 

Schedule an appointment with a neurosurgeon in Hiram by calling (770) 422-2326.