Programs Listing
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Education Programs, Events and Screenings
Featured Event
Series addresses a lifetime of health issues
Whether you are a new parent, middle aged or a senior citizen, health issues are likely important parts of your life.
The Backus Education Department’s next community health series, “Family Matters,” will address health topics that arise from birth to death.
The first seminar, on Sept. 10, will be “Coping with the Stress of New Parenthood.” Andrea Dameron, a registered nurse, clinical educator and lactation consultant from the Backus Birthing Center, and Ali Coley, a social worker with the Backus Care Management Department, will discuss topics such as post-partum depression and shaken baby syndrome.
“We want to help expecting parents understand how much their life is going to change, and let them know where they can go for help and resources,” Ms. Dameron said.
She will discuss how to soothe a crying baby, and warning signs of post-partum depression.
“People often think this is something that happens to other people, but it is a lot of stress to deal with. They don’t have to be ashamed and need to realize that they are not alone,” she said.
“Many of these topics address what families are dealing with, families facing issues with their children and their aging parents and handling that stress of being in the sandwich generation,” said Lisa Cook, a registered nurse and clinical educator with the Backus Education Department. “Issues such as autism, keeping children safe from Internet predators and caring for elderly parents, we will be giving people tools for these situations.”
“The people who attend are knowledgeable and have great questions,” said Alice Facente, a registered nurse and clinical educator with the Backus Education Department. “These community forums are a great way for us to share our knowledge and showcase our resources here at the hospital.”
Liz Fracchia, a registered nurse and Palliative Care Coordinator at Backus, will be part of two different presentations, in February and June 2010.
“There are so many questions people have about healthcare, anything we can do to help them navigate the system and promote health is helpful,” Ms. Fracchia said. “I think this series addresses all different phases of a person’s life and how Backus can assist them.”
If you want to go: Family Matters will be held the second Thursday of each month, September through June, from 6:30-8 p.m. in the Backus Hospital entry level conference rooms. Call 823-6313 to register for the free programs. Light refreshments are provided.
Back by popular demand: A repeat of the Head to Toe Health Talk “Oh, My Aching Feet!”
Eric Levine, DPM, a podiatrist on the Backus Hospital staff, will return to present his popular talk about what people can do ahead of time to avoid heel and arch pain; how to treat a sprained or twisted ankle; arthritic pain in the feet; and diabetes-related foot problems. A question and answer period will follow the presentation.
- Wednesday, Aug. 26
- 6:30 - 8 p.m.
- Backus Hospital entry level conference rooms
Program free but registration required. Call 823-6313 for more information.
Breast Health Patient Navigator Program
Free to women who experience a suspicious mammogram and/or ultrasound reading. The Patient Navigator helps guide the woman from the suspicious reading to a definitive diagnosis in the shortest amount of time possible to facilitate more efficient access and guidance to breast health care services and information. Services include assistance with referrals to local resources and social support; assistance with appointments; educational support; and, one-on-one meetings to increase satisfaction with their breast health care experience. Program free; no registration required. Call Joyce Kuusela, RN, at 425-3870, or Theresa Thackston at 425-3809 for more information.
Diabetes Outpatient Self- Management Program
This program includes an initial assessment by Certified Diabetes Educators, a Registered Nurse and a Clinical Dietitian. There are four, two-hour group classes which address all of the required components of Self Management of Diabetes. Participants are contacted three to six months after completion of the program to assess the attainment of individual objectives. The program is offered every month with day and evening sessions available. The focus of this program is to provide individuals, families and significant others the opportunity to gain a greater understanding of the components of self-care management. Health Care Provider Referral is required. Family members or significant others are encouraged to attend. This service is free of charge to the community. Call 892-6906 for more information.
Free Community Blood Pressure Screening
Free blood pressure screening on the third Wednesday of each month.
- Wednesday, Aug. 19
- 1 - 2 p.m.
- Backus Hospital entry level conference room 3
Program free; no registration required.
Free Community Prostate Screening
Urologists Franklin Friedman, MD, and Richard Colman, MD, are volunteering their time for this vital screening. A digital rectal exam will be performed and a blood test (PSA) will be drawn. Participants will need to call the doctor that performs their exam to find out their PSA result one week following the screening. Educational materials will be available.
- Saturday, Sept. 12
- 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
- Backus Ambulatory Medical Care Unit (AMC), off main lobby
Program free but registration required. Call 823-6313 for more information.
NAACP Health Fair
Cindy Arpin, RN, stroke program coordinator, will be on the Mobile Health Resource Center van providing info on stroke risk and prevention.
- Saturday, Aug. 8
- 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
- United Community and Family Services, Norwich
Program free; no registration required.
National Night Out in Norwich
The Backus Mobile Health Resource Center van will be at Shop-Rite for the Norwich Night Out Event, sponsored by the Norwich Police Dept. A nurse will be on the van with info on the Backus “Smoking Stinks” campaign. Kids are invited to “Take the pledge not to smoke - ever!”
- Tuesday, Aug. 4
- 6 - 9 p.m.
- Shop-Rite parking lot in Norwich
Program free; no registration required. Call 823-6313 for more information.
Pack the Place Pink
The Backus Foundation and the Connecticut Sun are partnering to promote breast health awareness. Show your support by wearing pink to the game against the Washington Mystics and purchasing $1 Circles of Care to benefit the Backus Breast Health Initiative. In addition, enjoy special festivities to celebrate and honor local survivors.
- Sunday, Aug. 9
- 3 p.m.
- Mohegan Sun Arena
To purchase tickets to “Pack the Place Pink,” contact Sun Account Executive Katie Berube at 860-862-4068 or by email at kberube@connecticutsun.com.
Prepare for Surgery, Heal Faster
Using Guided Imagery and relaxation helps people feel calmer before surgery, have less pain after surgery and recover more quickly. The techniques are also helpful for many other procedures to help lessen anxiety. The patient will receive a book and CD or tape and take one 90-minute instructional class. Ideally the class is taken 1-3 weeks prior to surgery. Classes are offered each Monday and Wednesday. A friend or family member may accompany the patient.
- Mondays, Aug. 10, 17, 31
- 5 - 6:30 p.m.
- Backus Hospital Surgical Services Family Room
- Wednesdays, Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26
- 2 - 3:30 p.m.
- Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich
There is a $30 (tape and book) or $35 (CD and book) fee for this program and registration is required. Call CHI at 425-3877 for more information.
Psychiatric Department Lectures
Monthly lectures on psychiatric trends and topics. Usually held on the fourth Thursday of every month.
- Thursday, Aug. 27
- 3 - 4:30 p.m.
- Backus Hospital entry level conference rooms 1-2
Program free; no registration required.
Sail Through Surgery
A pre-op program for children, ages 18 and under, and their parents, to help prepare for an upcoming surgery.
- Friday, Aug. 7
- 4 - 4:30 p.m.
- Backus Hospital Same Day Surgery waiting area
- Saturday, Aug. 15
- 10 - 10:30 a.m.
Program free but registration required. Call 823-6328 for more information.
Tai Chi
A combination of martial arts and meditation in motion. The many health benefits include increased balance, circulation, coordination, flexibility, and mental clarity. Suitable for beginners, those with physical limitations, as well as continuing students. Instructor: David Chandler.
- Tuesdays, Aug. 4, 11, 18; Sept. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 (no class Aug. 25)
- 6:30 - 8 p.m.
- Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich
There is a $120 fee for the eight-week series program and registration is required. Call CHI at 425-3877 for more information.
Thin's In
Whatever your weight loss goals, this acclaimed weight reduction program will give you the tools you need to lose weight and maintain healthy eating habits. Come learn the importance of combining proper portions within the five food groups for nutritious and healthy eating. Thin’s In combines balanced eating, exercise and behavior modification, which will leave you feeling mentally and physically satisfied and healthier. Instructor: Dianne Rubin. These are the last two classes in a ten-week series. A new series will begin Sept. 14.
- Mondays, Aug. 3, 10
- 4:30 - 5:15 p.m. (4 - 4:30 p.m. weigh in)
- Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich
There is a $130 fee for this 10-week program and registration is required. Call CHI at 425-3877 for more information.
Total Care Program (joint replacement)
Learn what to expect from your joint replacement surgery – preparatory measures, the procedure, rehabilitation, and other issues. Includes demonstrations from physical therapists.
- Wednesdays, Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26
- 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
- Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich.
Program free; no registration required. Call Cheryl Martel at 892-6963 for more information.
Total Care Program (spinal fusion)
Backus patients scheduled for surgery can learn what to expect from spinal fusion surgery – preparatory measures, the procedure, rehabilitation, and other issues.
- Wednesdays, Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26
- 9 - 11 a.m.
- Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich
Program free but registration required. Call 892-6963 for more information.
Childbirth and Infant Care
Breast-feeding Preparation Class
Learn breast-feeding tips for success. This class is for expectant women.
- Thursday, Aug. 6
- 6 - 8 p.m.
- Backus Hospital Birthing Center conference room
Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Childbirth Preparation Classes
A four-week series offered on Monday evenings in the Backus Hospital Birthing Center. Includes a tour of the Birthing Center. Register three months prior to due date.
- Mondays, Sept. 14, 21, 28; Oct. 5
- 7 - 9 p.m.
- Backus Hospital entry level conference rooms 1-2
There is a $55 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Childbirth Preparation Classes (weekend)
A two-day weekend class. Register early. Continental breakfast.
- Saturday, Aug. 15, and Sunday, Aug. 16
- 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
- Backus Hospital entry level conference rooms 1-2
There is a $55 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Childbirth Refresher Class
A one-evening class taught by a certified instructor for couples who have had an infant less than three years ago.
- Wednesday, Sept. 9
- 7 - 9 p.m.
- Backus Hospital Birthing Center
There is a $35 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Dr. Dad
Designed for the expectant or new father. Information on how to be a great dad and steps to prepare your home for your new baby. This interactive resource is meant to help you now and in the years to come. Class will include information on the Well Child, Sick Child, Injured Child and Safe Child.
- Tuesdays, Aug. 4, 11, 18, 25
- 6 - 8 p.m.
- Backus Hospital E-2 conference room
Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Expectant Grandparent Seminar
Designed to bring expectant grandparents up to date with: roles of grandparents; current information about pregnancy and childbirth; breastfeeding and bottle feeding; home safety for babies and toddlers; variations in the newborn; baby care; and questions and answers.
- Wednesday, Oct. 14
- 7 - 9 p.m.
- Backus Hospital Birthing Center
Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Happiest Baby on the Block
Would you like to learn how to calm your new baby’s cries ... in minutes? Learn why your baby is crying and how to turn on the calming reflex so that your baby can be happy and sleep longer. This two-hour class includes the information you need to help your baby and a parent kit for use at home. May be taken while pregnant or in the first weeks at home.
- Backus Hospital Birthing Center
There is a $50 per couple fee for this program and registration is required. Call Andrea at 860-917-9110 or e-mail andrea@naturallovingembrace.com for more information.
HypnoBirthing Class
Learn how to break the fear-tension-pain cycle. Complete childbirth education series using hypnosis, relaxation, visualization and education to have a more comfortable, satisfying birth. Available Monday evenings or weekends.
- Mondays, Aug. 3, 10, 17, 24
- 6 - 9 p.m.
- Backus Hospital Birthing Center
- Weekends, Sept. 12, 13, 19, 20
- 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
- Backus Hospital Birthing Center
There is a $300 fee for this program and registration is required. Call Andrea at 860-917-9110 or e-mail andrea@naturallovingembrace.com for more information.
Infant Massage
Five-week sessions offering techniques for infant massage and relaxation at Backus Hospital. Pro-rated for those who join mid-session. There is a $70 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 860-564-4753 for more information.
Infant-Child CPR
A Backus Birthing Center program for parents and parents-to-be in the instruction of CPR for infants and children. Instructor is certified in CPR. Classes are limited to eight people per session.
- Thursday, Aug. 13
- 6 - 8 p.m.
- Backus Hospital Birthing Center
There is a $35 per couple or $20 per person fee for this program and registration is required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Labor Comforts
A three-hour class to learn labor support techniques to maximize your comfort and relaxation in labor.
- Monday, Sept. 14
- 6 - 8:30 p.m.
- Backus Hospital Birthing Center
There is a $65 fee for this program and registration is required. Call Andrea at 860-917-9110 or e-mail andrea@naturallovingembrace.com for more information.
New Moms' Support Group
Open to moms of babies up to six months. It's a place to ask questions in a supportive environment, talk to other new moms about concerns, like post-partum issues, breastfeeding, feeding issues and infant care. Group is facilitated by the Lactation Consultant/educator.
- TBA
- 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
- Backus Same Day Surgery Family Room
Program free; no registration required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail MOC@wwbh.org for more information.
Nurturing Your Newborn – An Infant Care Class
This two-hour class teaches normal newborn behavior, tests and procedures in the hospital, and how to care for your baby in the first few days at home. Topics include: safe sleep, swaddling, bath demonstration, feeding, newborn appearance and behaviors and when to call the doctor.
- Thursday, Aug. 20
- 6 - 8 p.m.
- Backus Hospital Birthing Center Conference Room
Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail MOC@wwbh.org for more information.
Parents-to-Be Open House
Informational session and a tour of the Birthing Center. Speakers include OB doctor, midwife, Neonatal practitioner, pediatrician, lactation consultant, birth registry/paternity and various other educational materials available. Tours start at 6 p.m. from the main lobby. Speakers will start at 7 p.m. Refreshments will be served.
- Wednesday, Sept. 16
- 6 - 9 p.m.
- Backus Hospital entry level conference rooms 2-3
Program free but registration required. For more information or to register, call Elaine at 823-6517.
Prenatal Yoga Class
Release your stress and tension. Build more energy and strength. Minimize your discomfort. Learn safe and effective ways to feel good and revitalize yourself to enjoy your pregnancy and motherhood.
- Wednesdays, Sept. dates TBA
- 6:15 - 7:45 p.m.
- Beth Jacob Synagogue, Norwich
There is a $48 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 887-3388 or e-mail hathayoga@snet.net for more information.
Sibling Class
This one-day class helps big brother or sister, ages 3-6, prepare for the new addition. Tours of the Birthing Center are included and participants have the chance to see a newborn.
- Wednesday, Aug. 12
- 10 - 11 a.m.
- Backus Hospital Birthing Center
Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Signing Safari Parent Workshops
Learn the benefits of using American Sign Language with your hearing baby. Decrease fussiness while improving communication and have fun at the same time. This two-hour class teaches common signs that you will use with your baby or toddler. Also includes DVD and Pictionary of over 100 signs.
- Backus Hospital Birthing Center
There is a $50 per couple fee for this program and registration is required. Call Andrea at 860-917-9110 or e-mail andrea@naturallovingembrace.com for more information.
Teen Birthing
A two-evening childbirth preparation class to prepare adolescent couples for labor and delivery. Call for confirmation.
- Tuesdays, Aug. 11, 18
- 4:30 - 7 p.m.
- Backus Hospital Birthing Center
There is a $10 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Clinics and Services
Amputee Clinic
For new amputees or amputees considering a new prosthesis. Usually held the first Tuesday of the month. Individualized sessions.
- Tuesday, Aug. 4
- 1 - 3 p.m.
- Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich
Program free but registration required. Call 823-6317 for more information.
Backus Car Seat Clinic
Backus Hospital and Safe Kids New London County offer car seat checks and installation on the first and third Friday of every month.
- Fridays, Aug. 7, 21
- 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
- Norwich Fire Department
Program free but registration required. Call 442-0733 for more information.
HIV Education and Testing Site
Offers free, anonymous and confidential HIV education, counseling and testing. Ongoing Mondays and Wednesdays 5 - 8 p.m. and Tuesdays 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. at 107 Lafayette St. Program free but registration required. Call 823-6343 for more information.
Relaxation and Restoration
Backus Hospital's Center for Healthcare Integration (CHI) offers Acupuncture, Healing Touch, Therapeutic Massage (Swedish, Deep Tissue, and Hot Stone Therapy), Reflexology and Reiki sessions to the community by hospital-credentialed therapists. No referral is needed. There is a fee for this program and registration is required. Call 425-3877 to schedule an appointment or for more information.
Sexually Transmitted Disease Clinic
Diagnosis and treatment of most sexually transmitted diseases; HIV and Hepatitis C testing is available. Mondays and Wednesdays, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m., at 107 Lafayette St., Norwich. No appointment needed. Only eight patients seen each clinic session. No new registrations accepted after 7 p.m. Program free; no registration required. Call 823-6344 for more information.
Support Groups
Brain Injury Support Group
For persons who have experienced a brain injury, and for their families and friends. Usually held on the first Thursday of the month.
- Thursday, Aug. 6
- 1:30 - 3 p.m.
- Backus Medical Office Building Radiation Therapy conference room
Program free; no registration required. Call 889-8331, ext. 4060, for more information.
Breast Cancer Support Group
For breast cancer patients and their families, sponsored by Backus Hospital and ECHO. Usually held on the third Tuesday of each month.
- Tuesday, Aug. 18
- 7 - 8:30 p.m.
- Backus Hospital Medical Office Building Radiation Therapy waiting room
Program free; no registration required. Call 892-2777 for more information.
Cancer Support Group
Cancer patients and survivors are invited to discuss how cancer has changed their lives. Usually held on the second Tuesday of the month.
- Tuesday, Aug. 11
- Noon - 1 p.m.
- Backus Hospital Medical Office Building conference room
Program free but reservations are requested as lunch will be provided. Call 892-2777 for more information.
Diabetes Support Group
The Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism offers a Day Diabetes Support Group, usually held on the first Tuesday of every other month. The evening support group is usually offered every other month on the first Wednesday. This offering is perfect for individuals who would like to share information and learn from others with diabetes.
- Wednesday, Aug. 5
- 7 - 8 p.m.
- Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich
Program free but registration required. Call 892-6906 and leave a message on the Diabetes Patient Education line for more information.
Eastern Connecticut Celiac Support Group
Do you have Celiac Disease? Do you have an intolerance to gluten in your diet? Meetings will resume in September. Program free but registration required. Call 889-7776 for more information.
Head and Neck Cancer Support Group
For cancer patients, survivors and caregivers. Education and support group during treatment and afterwards. Usually held the third Tuesday of the month.
- Tuesday, Aug. 18
- 5 - 6 p.m.
- Entry level conference rooms
Program free; no registration required. Call 892-2777 for more information.
Illness Management and Recovery for the Family/Natural Supports
Obtain a greater understanding of recovery; recovery strategies; practical facts about mental illness; the stress-vulnerability model and treatment strategies; role of building social supports in recovery; strategies to reduce relapses; effective medication use; stress and common problems; information on coping with symptoms; getting your needs met in the mental health system; and substance abuse. In addition, families/supports will engage in problem solving and sharing to enhance education and effective coping within the family/support system. Usually held the third Wednesday of the month.
- Wednesday, Aug. 19
- 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
- Southeastern Mental Health Authority, 401 West Thames St., bldg. 301
Program free; no registration required. Call 859-4500 for more information.
Laryngectomy Support Group
Tri-County New Voice Club for laryngectomy patients and family meets on the second Sunday of the month.
- Sunday, Aug. 9
- 2 - 4 p.m.
- Backus Hospital Medical Office Building Radiation Therapy conference room
Program free; no registration required. Call Speech Therapy at 889-8331, ext. 4490 for more information.
Lyme Disease Support Group
Talk with others about how Lyme disease has impacted your life and learn the latest on diagnosis and treatments. Usually meets the first Thursday of the month.
- Thursday, Aug. 6
- 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
- Backus Hospital Medical Library
Program free; no registration required. Call Kimberlee Pappa at 860-303-9020 for more information.
Lymphedema Support Group
Offers an opportunity to share experiences and learn about risk reduction and treatment of lymphedema. Meets quarterly.
- Tuesday, Sept. 1
- noon - 1 p.m.
- Backus Outpatient Care Center conference room 1
Program free; no registration required. Call Suzanne Plante at 823-6317 for more information.
Mended Hearts
Support group for patients with cardiac problems. Usually meets the third Tuesday of every month. Facilitated by Sue Rahn, RN, of the Backus Cardiac Rehabilitation Department.
- Tuesday, Aug. 18
- 6:30 p.m.
- Backus Hospital entry level conference room 1
Program free; no registration required.
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support Group
“Angels Remembered”is a support group for parents who have experienced pregnancy or early infancy loss. Held the second Tuesday of each month.
- Tuesday, Aug. 11
- 7 - 8:30 p.m.
- Backus Hospital Medical Office Building conference room
Program free; no registration required. Call Elynor Carey at 889-8331, ext. 4239, for more information.
Prostate Support Group
The American Cancer Society's Man to Man program is a forum for men to learn about prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment options, as well as coping and everyday living skills, through interactive presentations and materials. Specialists in various fields related to prostate cancer share information on medical topics and quality of life issues. A comfortable and confidential meeting environment encourages men to discuss their concerns openly and honestly and share solutions to common problems. No medical advice is offered. Held the second Tuesday of every month.
- Tuesday, Aug. 11
- 7 - 8:30 p.m.
- Union Baptist Church, 119 High St., Mystic
Program free; no registration required. Call 800-227-2345 for more information.
Sharing and Caring: Stroke Support and Conversation Group
For persons who have experienced a stroke, and for their families and friends. Usually held on the second Thursday of the month.
- Thursday, Aug. 13
- 1 - 2 p.m.
- Backus Outpatient Care Center, conference room 1
Program free; no registration required. Call 823-6317 and ask for Pamor 889- 8331, ext. 3480, for more information.
United Community and Family Services monthly Caregiver Support Group
Support groups serve an important role in helping caregivers with fulfilling their role as a caregiver. Usually held the second Wednesday of the month. All are welcome.
- Wednesday, Aug. 12
- 4 - 5 p.m.
- Ross Adult Day Center, 165 McKinley Ave., Norwich