Health Essentials - Spring 2012 - Stephanie Tubbs Jones Health Center - (Page 6)

Teaming We’re providing five new resources to fight chronic diseases Rita Lovelace, RN, works with chronic kidney disease and congestive heart failure patients. SPECIAL CLINICAL TEAMS at Stephanie Tubbs Jones Health Center are working together to help patients fight against the debilitating effects of chronic and life-threatening diseases. Members of these teams provide a multidisciplinary approach to caring for residents in the community who have diabetes, chronic kidney disease and congestive heart failure, as well as those who need anticoagulation support (avoiding blood clots) or wound care services. Why Form the Teams? These conditions have been identified by local medical specialists as being some of the most persistent and harmful for residents of East Cleveland and its surrounding suburbs. Advanced practice nurses, registered dietitians, pharmacists and social workers are involved in each of the five teams to provide individualized care to patients in these unique chronic disease care clinics. “Our goal with chronic disease is to improve the quality of life for our patients,” says Rita Lovelace, RN, who works with chronic kidney disease and congestive heart failure patients. “The team members work closely together to identify these illnesses in patients at the earliest stage possible. Treatment is more effective when conditions are identified early. “Patients are helped to become more aware of potential complications they face later. Patient education is essential,” she adds. “Through education, patients can become more proactive in maintaining good health. They identify cost-effective ways to maximize wellness and prevent illnesses.” The Five Specialty Clinics Often, chronic diseases have similar contributing factors, and complications can be managed through lifestyle adjustments, as well as taking prescribed medications, Lovelace says. Through the five specialty clinics, patients learn that: 1. Anticoagulation care is provided to patients with chronic heart rhythm problems, or who have had heart valve replacements. Medications are available to thin the blood, and reduce the chance of developing dangerous blood clots. 6 HeaLTH eSSeNTIaLS SPRING 2012 

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Health Essentials - Spring 2012 - Stephanie Tubbs Jones Health Center

Health Essentials - Spring 2012 - Stephanie Tubbs Jones Health Center
Exciting news about Health Essentials
6 tips for talking better with your doctor
A grandmother’s strength
Teams launched to help patients with chronic conditions

Health Essentials - Spring 2012 - Stephanie Tubbs Jones Health Center

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