Parrish Healthcare Mom's Support Group
A group for mothers with babies ages birth to six months. During this time, moms will be able to discuss topics such as infant feeding, sleeping, milestones, car seats, play, development, post-partum care, birth control, post-partum depression, dietary needs and much more. Space is limited.

Parrish Healthcare Diabetes Support Group
This support group is for anyone age 18 and older with diabetes. Join us for tips to live better with this disease.

Parrish Healthcare's Amputee Support Group of Titusville
A safe and supportive environment for individuals living with limb loss or limb difference as well as their family. Join us for resources, education, fellowship, refreshments, and snacks on the second Tuesday of every month.

Parrish Healthcare's Caring for Caregivers Support Group
Care giving is a rewarding, yet demanding labor of love. Join us to learn how to care for yourself while you care for your loved one.

Parrish Healthcare Stroke and Heart Survivors Support Group
If you've experienced a diagnosis or event, or are caring for someone living with heart disease or stroke, our community is here to support you.

Early Steps Community Play Date
A special play date for children five and under and their parent(5)/guardian(5).

Parrish Healthcare Cancer and Survivor Support Group
This group is for cancer patients, cancer survivors and anyone touched by the disease. Enjoy refreshments and talk with others sharing similar situations and experiences.

A. W. A. K. E Sleep Support
This group is dedicated to exchanging information and increasing awareness of sleep, sleeping disorders, and related health concerns. Everyone with an interest in sleep and health is encouraged to attend.

Kidney Smart Class
Take control of your kidney health by attending a 90-minute, no-cost Kidney Smart class led by expert educators in your community. You'll learn about chronic kidney disease and its causes, diet and nutrition, benefits of employment and managing insurance, and treatment choices that may be available to you.

Tools to Quit Smoking Now
We know quitting tobacco isn't easy but finding help should be. Parrish Healthcare has partnered with Tobacco Free Florida to offer this free class which equips those to use tobacco with tools and services to quit.

Parrish Medical Center Care Partners Attend FEMA's Center for Domestic Preparedness Week

Care Partners representing Parrish Medical Center included: Ericka Jacobs, MSN, RN, Emergency and Women's Services Director; Leigh Spradling, CHEP, Emergency Services Specialist; Regan Wagner, CIC, Infection Prevention Professional; and Jose Perez, Biomed Technician. Combined, they completed the following interdisciplinary training exercises: Healthcare Leadership for Mass Casualty Incidents (HCL), Hospital Emergency Response Operations for Mass Casualty Incidents (HERT) and Barrier Precautions and Controls for Highly Infectious Disease (HID). At the end of the training week, they also completed an Integrated Capstone Event (ICE), a comprehensive exercise that simulated real-world incidents and allowed for collaboration and the opportunity to apply their newly acquired skills.

Parrish Medical Center Emergency and Women's Services Director, Ericka Jacobs, shares her excitement for attending the Healthcare Leadership for Mass Casualty Incidents (HCL) training. "As Emergency Department Director, it's imperative that we equip ourselves with all the necessary skills to lead effectively during mass casualty incidents. Attending this training was incredibly informative, and allowed us an opportunity to work through uncertainties and unforeseen challenges collectively."

Parrish Medical Center Infection Prevention Professional, Regan Wagner attended the Barrier Precautions and Controls for Highly Infectious Disease training. "As an infectious disease professional, this training has been extremely insightful. It has strengthened my pre-existing skillset and enhanced my ability to navigate some of the complex challenges that accompany the heightened risk of infectious diseases during a natural disaster."

According to FEMA, more than 140 healthcare and emergency response professionals from hurricane prone areas attended Hurricane Theme Week. Parrish Medical Center recognizes the importance of preparedness and ongoing training to ensure the safety and well- being of our community. "Through initiatives such as FEMA's Hurricane Theme Week, we remain committed to equipping our staff with the skills and knowledge necessary to respond effectively to emergencies," added Parrish Medical Center Emergency Services Specialist Leigh Spradling.

For more information on FEMA's CDP, please visit www.cdp.dhs.gov. For additional information on Parrish Medical Center, or Parrish Healthcare, please visit www.parrishhealthcare.com.

Parrish Healthcare Welcomes Junior Achievement for Hands-On Learning Day

The hands-on learning day was organized in partnership with Junior Achievement of the Space Coast to inspire and educate young minds about the healthcare industry. Parrish Care Partners generously shared their knowledge and experience, answering students' questions and offering advice on pursuing careers in medicine.

During the visit, students experienced a variety of activities designed to give them a firsthand look at various hospital operations. Activities included practicing CPR on interactive mannequins, understanding required personal protective equipment necessary prior to surgery, the proper process for putting on a surgical cap, gown and mask, correct handwashing techniques and an interactive fire simulation that allowed students to practice using a fire extinguisher.

"The hands-on activities the health science students from Cocoa High got to experience could potentially be life-altering." said Candice Hodge, Vice President of Education at Junior Achievement of the Space Coast. "Either a student was sparked into pursuing a pathway into the medical field, hopefully returning to join the Parrish team one day, or a student realized they liked fictitious television hospital dramas more than being in one and still has time to course-correct. It's a win for everyone, and Junior Achievement can't thank Parrish enough for taking the time to help ensure our local students are successful!" she continued.

Parrish Healthcare's President and CEO, George Mikitarian, a Junior Achievement alum and Hall of Fame Laureate himself, also had the pleasure of speaking with the students. "We appreciate the opportunity to welcome Junior Achievement members to our medical center again for this educational event. It was a pleasure to share our passion for healthcare and provide students with an immersive experience that could shape their career paths." said Mikitarian.

The event was well-received by students and teachers alike, who expressed their gratitude for the chance to learn directly from medical professionals. The visit also highlighted the importance of community partnerships that foster education and career development.

Amanda Mannes, a career and technical education teacher at Cocoa High School, accompanied students for the day. "We were so excited to be welcomed back by Parrish and really appreciated Dr. Mikitarian taking time out of his day to talk with us. The hands-on activities that were organized for my students made such an impact. We truly appreciate everyone who took time out of their day to educate us. It was a great day and we look forward to working with Parrish again."

For more information about Junior Achievement of the Space Coast and its programs, please visit spacecoast.ja.org. For additional information about Parrish Healthcare and other community outreach initiatives, please visit parrishhealthcare.com.

Jess Parrish Medical Foundation Golf Classic

TITUSVILLE, FLA. (April 17, 2024)—More than 100 sponsors, 53 teams, 212 players and dozens of volunteers participated in the annual two-course Jess Parrish Medical Foundation (JPMF) Fran Gerrett Memorial Golf Classic on Friday, April 5, at Indian River Preserve Golf Club and The Great Outdoors Golf Club. Since 2011, the tournament has raised more than $775,000.

The law firm of Zumpano Patricios presented the 18-hole scramble for the tenth consecutive year. JPMF hosted another sell-out crowd at this year’s tournament and exceeded its fundraising goal of $70,000, raising more than $80,000 to benefit The Children’s Center (TCC), a service of Parrish Healthcare, and one-stop childhood development resource center. TCC provides a safe and healing environment for special needs and typically developing children to learn and grow, along with an array of health, education and human services under one roof.

The annual golf tournament lives on as a tribute to Fran Gerrett’s longtime dedication to our community and his favorite charity, The Children’s Center. Fran, a former Parrish Medical Center Materials Management Director, was famous for saying, “It’s all about the kids!”

“My family would like to extend our thanks to the sponsors, committee, volunteers, course partners and everyone that played a role in the extraordinary success of the event. We are honored to be able to preserve our father’s legacy and continue to support the children and families in need of the vital services provided by The Children’s Center,” stated Amy Craddock, tournament co-chair.

Event partners included Presenting sponsor Zumpano Patricios. Platinum-level sponsor HHS; and Gold-level sponsors were Injury Centers of Brevard, RUSH Construction, Inc. and RW Services, LLC. Silver-level sponsors included MedFast Urgent Care Centers, LLC, Regions Bank; and UBS Financial Services / Susan Morse & Daniel Levy. Bronze-level sponsors were Anderson Financial Partners, Inc.; The Broome Law Firm/Chris & Kelley Broome; Certified Plumbing of Brevard, Inc.; Cintas Corporation; Coastal Health Systems of Brevard; Randy and Mary Coleman; CPS; Parrish Home Health / LHC Group; Howard W. Rinker, D.D.S.; and The Watauga Company. Supporting-level sponsors included 626; Advanced Care Partners PPEC; Drs. Allotta, Parry, Musto and Bataille; Carmona Pathology Associates, P.A.; Herman and Joyce Cole; Florida Health Care Plans; Mary Haddad-Mauzy / Coldwell Banker Coast Realty; Edwin and Nancy Loftin; McDonald’s – The Rodriguez Family; MEC General Contractors; The Mikitarian Family; Palm Point Behavioral Health; Ron Norris Buick, GMC, Honda, Ford; Greg and Kathy Sparkman & Allen and Diane Taylor Families; Termine’s Specialty Supply of Melbourne; Bill and Rachel Terry; and WFTV – WRDQ. Par-Tee-level sponsors were Atlantic Enrollment Solutions; GEICO Titusville; RW Services, LLC; Mary Haddad-Mauzy / Coldwell Banker Coast Realty; Space Coast Credit Union; and System Tech Services, Inc. Beverage sponsor was Cara Fisher – State Farm Insurance. Breakfast sponsors were Firehouse Subs at Titus Landing and McDonald’s – The Rodriguez Family. Cart sponsor was Florida Power and Light Company. Hole Sign sponsors included A1 Orange; Claudine Brandon / Golf 1, Inc.; Santi Bulnes; CMI / Spacelabs; Edward Jones – Casey Crouch; Marty & Terry Lee; MOMAR, Inc.; St. Francis Reflections Lifestage Care; and US Lawns of Brevard. In-kind sponsors included Barefoot Bay Golf Course; Beef O’Brady’s – Titusville; Brevard Zoo; Color Bar; Costco; Dixie Crossroads Seafood Restaurant; el Leoncito Mexican & Cuban Restaurant; Ericka Jacobs; Flamingo Key Realty; Hyatt Place Titusville/Kennedy Space Center; Indian River Preserve Golf Course; Nadine Itani; Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex; Kingdom Kutz; La Cita Golf & Country Club; MedAesthetics; Milwaukee Tool; Kathy Myer; Orlando Solar Bears; Parrish Home Health / LHC Group; PieZano Pizzeria; Publix Super Markets, Inc.; Redfish on Fly / Backcast Charters; Regions Bank; River Lanes Family Entertainment Center; Simply Amazing Boutique; Leigh Spradling; Suite Caroline Salon and Spa; Systems Tech Services, Inc.; The Cheesecake Factory; The Great Outdoors; Titusville Playhouse; and Wawa-Titusville. Other generous sponsors were recognized at the tournament.

“We are overjoyed by the tremendous support the tournament continues to receive, and are thrilled to have so many organizations and community partners join us to make a difference in the vital work of The Children’s Center,” said Leigh Spradling, tournament co-chair.

Taking home top honors were the men’s division first-place teams of Steve Ellenbrook, Tim Fields, Jeff Marr, and Mike Pavick at The Great Outdoors, and Tim King, Bobby Hopper, Tommy Merchant and Keith McCoy at Indian River Preserve Golf Club. The mixed division first-place teams included the foursomes of Paul Reas, Paul Joseph Reas, Susie Reas and Blake Upchurch at Indian River Preserve, and Lynne Anderson, Harold Gero, John Gero and Susan Jensen at The Great Outdoors.

Amy Craddock and Leigh Spradling, event co-chairs, led the tournament planning committee that included members Santi Bulnes, Nadine Itani, Kathy Myer, Jeff Riley, Kathy Simonsen, Greg Sparkman and Kristina Weaver.

Next year’s tournament is scheduled for April 4, 2025. For more information about Jess Parrish Medical Foundation, or to secure your 2025 event partnership today, contact Jess Parrish Medical Foundation at (321) 269-4066 or visit www.parrishmedfoundation.com/golf.

Parrish Medical Group Welcomes Physician Assistant Katie Pate, MPAS, PA-C

Katie Pate

Pate is a graduate of the Bethel University Physician Assistant Program in Paris, Tennessee and earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise and Movement Science from the University of Oregon. She is passionate about assisting patients in regaining their functional mobility post-surgery and increasing their overall quality of life.

Her professional areas of interest include joint reconstruction/ arthroplasty, orthopedic trauma surgery as well as non-operative treatment of chronic conditions to assist patients with returning to their prior activity level. In her free time, Pate enjoys scuba diving with her husband, traveling locally and abroad and spending time with her two dogs.

The Parrish Medical Group Orthopedics team of Care Partners specialize in the newest techniques and technology to solve common to complex orthopedic problems, including but not limited to osteopathic manipulative therapy (OMT) and VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Solution, an advanced technology designed for digital precision and accuracy in total joint replacement. New patients are welcome, most insurance plans accepted. To schedule an appointment, or for more information visit parrishhealthcare.com.

Parrish Medical Group Primary Care Welcomes Gary Chee Seng Oh, BSc Hon, MD

Gary Chee Seng Oh, BSc Hon, MD

TITUSVILLE, FLA. (April 12, 2024)—Parrish Healthcare and Parrish Medical Group are pleased to welcome Gary Chee Seng Oh, BSc Hon, MD. Dr. Oh is a Family Medicine Physician with Parrish Medical Group Primary Care.

Dr. Oh received his medical degree from the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Canada and Saint James School of Medicine in Arnos Vale, St. Vincent and Grenadines. His clinical specialties for patients of all ages include diagnosis and treatment of acute illness and injury, management of chronic conditions, lifestyle medicine, wellness and preventive screenings, as well as health counseling and patient education.

Dr. Oh is a board-certified physician with the American Board of Lifestyle Medicine, American Board of Family Medicine and American Academy of Family Physicians. He is also a member of the Canadian College of Neuropsychopharmacology and Medical Council of Canada.

Dr. Oh's professional passions include lifestyle medicine, neurosciences/mental health, mind and body health, physical fitness and athletics. Dr. Oh will be conveniently located in the Parrish Healthcare Center in Port Canaveral at 390 Challenger Road, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920. New patients are welcome. Most insurance plans accepted. To schedule an appointment, call 321-633-8640.

For more information about Dr. Oh, Parrish Medical Group, or primary care at Parrish Healthcare, visit parrishhealthcare.com.

Parrish Healthcare Opens Fourth Outpatient Lab Services Location

TITUSVILLE, FLA. (April 2, 2024)-Parrish Healthcare, on April 1, opened its fourth outpatient laboratory services location at its Parrish Health and Wellness site, conveniently located at 3065 Columbia Boulevard, Suite C104, Titusville, Florida 32780. Outpatient laboratory services, including but not limited to, routine blood tests, glucose tests, lipid panels, urine tests, stool tests, drug tests, and more, are available Monday through Friday from 7AM- 3:30PM. Walk-in appointments are welcomed.

Parrish Healthcare's four convenient outpatient laboratory locations are:
      1. Parrish Medical Center, 951 North Washington Avenue, Titusville, Florida
      2. Parrish Healthcare Center, 5005 Port St. John Parkway, Port St. John, Florida 32927;
      3. Parrish Healthcare Center, 250 Harrison Street Titusville, Florida 32780;
      4. Parrish Health and Wellness, 3065 Columbia Boulevard, Suite C104, Titusville, FL 32780.

All Parrish Healthcare outpatient laboratory sites are accredited by the Commission on Laboratory Accreditation of the College of American Pathologists (CAP). The CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program began in the early 1960s and is recognized by the federal government as being equal to, or more stringent than, the government's own inspection program. The accreditation program is internationally recognized and is the only one that utilizes a team of practicing laboratory professionals as inspectors.

For more information about our outpatient laboratory or diagnostic services visit our website Parrishhealthcare.com.

RE: OPEN LETTER TO THE COMMUNITY

House Bill 739, which was considered but did not pass, could have forced the sale of North Brevard County Hospital District’s Parrish Medical Center. Such a measure would have potentially compromised the hospital’s ability to care for you or your loved ones if there was a forced sale to a for-profit company.

We respect the legislative process and are pleased that it worked as intended. We believe the bill would have had profound negative consequences for both health care access and affordability in Brevard County. We will, of course, continue to operate transparently, and look forward to working collaboratively and in partnership with our legislators while remaining steadfast in our commitment to advancing affordable, high quality health care in the communities we serve. Additionally, we are sincerely grateful for the outpouring of support received from our fellow healthcare colleagues and the community at-large.

As an independent special district established under Florida law, Parrish is subject to, and compliant with, Florida’s Government in the Sunshine Laws (s. 286.011, F. S.) and Florida’s Public Records Laws (Ch. 119, F. S.). As an example of the transparency with which Parrish Medical Center operates, you can view a video recording of the most recent Parrish Medical Center semi-annual report provided to members of the Titusville City Council on our website (https://www.parrishhealthcare.com/about-us/governance-and- leadership/reports-to-city-council/). Additionally, we publish our meeting minutes, agendas, financials, and community health needs assessment, among other information, on our website: www.parrishhealthcare.com.

Formed in 1958 by the State of Florida, we are proud to operate Brevard’s only continuously independent, not-for-profit, public community hospital. Although designated as a special district, the Parrish Medical Center nine-member Board of Directors (who are locally appointed by the elected City Council and Brevard County Commission) has not levied any taxes for nearly 30 years.

We also operate as the lowest cost provider of healthcare in the region in continuing our commitment to provide access to affordable, high quality health care. And, while keeping your health care costs low, we also invest many millions of dollars to address community health needs and services to the poor and underserved that would otherwise not be available. In fiscal year 2022, we invested $42.9 million in charity and other uncompensated care; and in fiscal year 2023, we invested another $31.7 million.

Frankly, HB 739 was unnecessary as current Florida Statute Sec.155.40 already allows for such a decision to be made by the local Board of Directors if it finds that the sale or lease is “in the best interests of the affected community.” What is in the best interest of our community is of paramount concern and, with that in mind, current law makes the most sense.

As a public, community health system, we appreciate being held accountable to the people within the communities we serve. We value transparency and delivering high standards of patient care. It is why we continuously invite rigorous review of our clinical programs by many of the nation’s leading health care quality and regulatory accrediting bodies. To this end, on March 7, 2024, it was announced that - after passing a rigorous review of our operations, quality and service - the prestigious Cleveland Clinic accepted Parrish Medical Center as the first member of “Cleveland Clinic Connected” in the United States.

Every person deserves access to quality health care provided within safe, healing environments. Parrish Medical Center is proud to serve our community with transparency, honor and distinction.

Sincerely,
George George Mikitarian, Jr.
President/CEO

Parrish Healthcare Announces Community Support Group Schedule for April

Parrish Healthcare's Fearless Café
A collaboration with St. Francis Reflections Life Stages Care, this group shares a casual discussion about advanced directives, power of attorney, wills, living wills and all of the often, scary conversations about death and dying.

Parrish Healthcare Mom's Support Group
A group for mothers with babies ages birth to six months. During this time, moms will be able to discuss topics such as infant feeding, sleeping, milestones, car seats, play, development, post-partum care, birth control, post-partum depression, dietary needs and much more. Space is limited.

Diabetes Support Group
This support group is for anyone age 18 and older with diabetes. Join us for tips to live better with this disease.

Parrish Healthcare's Amputee Support Group of Titusville
A safe and supportive environment for individuals living with limb loss or limb difference as well as their family. Join us for resources, education, fellowship, refreshments, and snacks on the second Tuesday of every month.

Parrish Healthcare's Caring for Caregivers Support Group
Care giving is a rewarding, yet demanding labor of love. Join us to learn how to care for yourself while you care for your loved one.

Parrish Healthcare Stroke and Heart Survivors Support Group
If you've experienced a diagnosis or event, or are caring for someone living with heart disease or stroke, our community is here to support you.

Early Steps Community Play Date
A special play date for children five and under and their parents)/guardian(s).

Parrish Healthcare Cancer and Survivor Support Group
This group is for cancer patients, cancer survivors and anyone touched by the disease. Enjoy refreshments and talk with others sharing similar situations and experiences.

Parrish Healthcare A. W. A. K. E Sleep Support
This group is dedicated to exchanging information and increasing awareness of sleep, sleeping disorders, and related health concerns. Everyone with an interest in sleep and health is encouraged to attend.

Kidney Smart Class
Take control of your kidney health by attending a 90-minute, no-cost Kidney Smart class led by expert educators in your community. You'll learn about chronic kidney disease and its causes, diet and nutrition, benefits of employment and managing insurance, and treatment choices that may be available to you.

Tools to Quit Smoking Now
We know quitting tobacco isn't easy but finding help should be. Parrish Healthcare has partnered with Tobacco Free Florida to offer this free class which equips those to use tobacco with tools and services to quit.

Parrish Healthcare Serves as Presenting Sponsor for SMILE From Within Community Event

"The purpose of today's event is to highlight the importance of a healthy mind and body for everyone within our North Brevard community. Supporting events like SMILE From Within is one more way we serve to extend the reach of our vision of Healing Families-Healing Communities." said Robert Jordan, Chairman of the Parrish Medical Board of Directors. "There is hope and potential in each and everyone of us here today, simply because you showed up.

This is how each of us make a difference." The free event, open to children ages seven to fourteen, took place at Gibson Center Fields in Titusville. Participants attended a youth football training or cheerleading camp. J. T. Hassell, an NFL football player and former Brevard native, led the rotation of several football training activities throughout the day. NFL cheerleaders Courtney Cadore and Jonet Nichelle ran the cheerleading camp that later performed a learned routine for all in attendance.

SMILE From Within was organized and hosted by All Black, a community engagement company for change, in partnership with the Hassell Foundation, Brevard Prevention Coalition and Move Into The Light.

Parrish Healthcare Celebrates Certified Nurses Day

Celebrated since the 1980s, every March 19, employers, certification boards, education facilities and health care providers celebrate and publicly acknowledge nurses who earn and maintain the highest credentials in their specialty. Certified Nurses Day honors nurses worldwide who contribute their talents through national board certification in their specialty. Parrish Healthcare is proud to celebrate twenty nurses who are board certified in their specialty.

Kristina Crabtree, Parrish Healthcare's People Development Manager, explains the significance and additional workload for nurses to obtain a certification. "When a registered nurse decides to work towards becoming a certified nurse, they are voluntarily taking an extra step in their education to demonstrate a level of competence and knowledge in their field of nursing." Kristina is among our Care Partners being celebrated, as she's earned a Nursing Professional Development Certification (NPD-BC). "Becoming a certified nurse is a fantastic professional development opportunity and shows dedication to the nursing profession."

Robert Chambers, a Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON), explains how his certification has encouraged him to become a better nurse. "Certified nurses are specialists in their respected fields, giving them a unique opportunity to effect positive change, supporting their organization and community beyond traditional bedside care." Robert continues, "During my career, I've had the pleasure of participating in such occasions, focusing on patient care, program development and staff education."

Another Care Partner at Parrish Healthcare, Riley Sills, holds two nursing certifications: Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) and Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN). "These two certifications have allowed me to learn evidence-based standards of practice applicable to every ICU or ER across the country. They have increased my knowledge of certain modalities and treatment plans and allowed me to have a better understanding of what is going on with my patients."

Of Parrish Healthcare's twenty certified nurses, four Care Partners work exclusively within the Women's Center and hold certifications in perinatal care. Holly Malcom, who holds an Inpatient Obstetric Nursing Certification (RNC-OB), recalls why she originally wanted to become a nurse. "When I was ten years old, my older brother was sick. I was so fascinated with the nurses caring for him. I decided then that I would become a nurse." Holly explains how her certification, which requires a renewal every three years, impacts her as a Care Partner within Parrish Healthcare, "I feel having this certification keeps me current with evidence-based best practice and allows me to navigate the labor and delivery process and manage obstetric emergencies more efficiently, therefore allowing me to be a better nurse."

Congratulations and thank you to the following Care Partners who are celebrated today on Certified Nurses Day: Stella Barrett, Shannon Burdine, Robert Chambers, Kristina Crabtree, Elizabeth Culpepper, Axelrave Dominguez, Monika Fitzsimmons, Heather Focht, Kristi Foreman, Nicholas Gumieny, Shannon Luker, Olivia Maggs, Holly Malcom, Joseline Medina, Peggy McLaughlin, Imee Perez, Riley Sills, Angela Sima, Kimber Whitehurst and Ellen Wright.

Parrish Healthcare First in Brevard to Use VELYS Robotic-Assisted Solution Technology

Every knee is different, as is every patient requiring a knee replacement procedure. Patients are often looking for the latest technology as they aim for improved outcomes, increased movement and shortened recovery time. The VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Solution technology helps surgeons perform a knee replacement with the use of data that's tailored to each patient's anatomy. This technology helps ensure predictable results to improve outcomes, increase mobility and help patients recover faster.

Dr. Musto, who currently serves as Parrish Medical Center's Director of Total Joint Replacement, completed his orthopedic fellowship training at the Minnesota Center for Orthopedics. Dr. Musto was the first surgeon to be accepted for the one-year fellowship, and it was here that he gained experience in robotic-assisted total knee replacement.

"Advanced technologies in joint replacement surgery have been growing quickly in the past few years." exclaims Dr. Musto. "The addition of advanced imageless robotic technology is a powerful tool that allows me improved precision and to make adjustments in half of a millimeter increments. This also allows me to personalize a surgical plan for each patient all without the need for expensive, time consuming advanced imaging prior to surgery. This also cuts down on radiation exposure for the patient."

Dr. Musto earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree with honors at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Spartanburg, South Carolina. He also holds a Master's degree in Medical Science and Bachelor's degree in Biology from the University of South Florida in Tampa.

Dr. Musto has offices conveniently located in Port Saint John at 5005 Port St. John Parkway, Suite 2200, Port Saint John, FL, and Titusville at 250 Harrison Street, Titusville, FL. New patients are welcome and most insurance plans are accepted. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Musto, please call (321) 433-2247.

For more information about the VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Solution, Dr. Musto or Parrish Medical Center, visit Parrish. VELYSRobotics.com.

Parrish Medical Center Becomes a Cleveland Clinic Connected Member

Thursday, March 7, 2024, CLEVELAND, OH and TITUSVILLE, FL: Cleveland Clinic and Parrish Medical Center, a Parrish Healthcare integrated care partner, jointly announced that Parrish Medical Center has become a member of Cleveland Clinic Connected. After passing a rigorous review of Parrish Medical Center's operations, quality and service excellence, Cleveland Clinic has accepted Parrish Medical Center as the first domestic member of Cleveland Clinic Connected.

Founded in 1958, Parrish Medical Center is the region's only independent, public, not-for-profit community hospital nationally recognized for its patient-centered healing environment. Parrish Medical Center has eamed a number of national distinctions, including, but not limited to, Joint Commission- certified Primary Stroke Center; Commission on Cancer-certified oncology program and Surgical Quality Partner of the American College of Surgeons; among many others.

Cleveland Clinic created Cleveland Clinic Connected to respond to increased global demand for quality healthcare. The collaborative program enables hospitals and healthcare organizations to connect with Cleveland Clinic's clinical and operational experts to enhance patient care, quality and safety. Through program membership, healthcare facilities benefit from clinical and operational support and best practices developed during Cleveland Clinic's 103-year history.

As a Cleveland Clinic Connected member, Parrish Medical Center clinicians will be able to access educational opportunities either at Cleveland Clinic or through distance learning, as well as best practices and protocols that are used at Cleveland Clinic locations worldwide. Parrish Medical Center physicians will also be able to request educational consultations of complex cases. In addition, Parrish's staff can access Cleveland Clinic's continuous quality improvement and advisory services, plus education and training including clinical observership programs.

Ranked as one of the world's top hospital systems - according to Newsweek's World's Best Hospitals 2023 List – Cleveland Clinic has 23 hospitals and more than 275 outpatient facilities, including locations in northeast Ohio; southeast Florida; Las Vegas, Nevada; Toronto, Canada; Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; and London, England.

"We are thrilled to welcome Parrish Medical Center as the first U.S. member of Cleveland Clinic Connected,” said Jim Cotelingam, Cleveland Clinic Chief Strategy Officer. “This collaboration with Parrish underscores both organizations' dedication to safety, quality and excellence in care for patients. Together, we are focused on enhancing the healthcare experience for the communities we serve."

The goal of the Cleveland Clinic Connected program is to build a global network of independent, like- minded, quality-focused organizations that have a positive impact on patient care. Experts from Cleveland Clinic work with hospitals and health systems to ensure the highest standards of patient care delivery, enhancing operational efficiencies, and supporting the professional development and education of clinical and non-clinical staff.

"On behalf of Parrish Medical Center, Parrish Healthcare and the community we serve, we are honored to brese fit and 5. 0 of Parrish esterare. We look Convard to the colaborati and Go the melta our patients, care partners and community will gain from access to Cleveland Clinic's global network of health expertise."

The partnership between Cleveland Clinic and Parrish Medical Center will also wekome Cleveland Clinic as an integrated care partner of Parrish Healthcare's Joint Commission-certified Integrated Care system. Parrish Healthcare remains the nation's first and only health system to earn Integrated Care certification from The Joint Commission.

Additionally, the partnership will also bring Cleveland Clinic’s world-class telestroke program to Brevard County. Parrish Medical Center’s Joint Commission-certified Primary Stroke Center introduced its telestroke program in 2012. With this new partnership, the telestroke program will continue at Parrish Medical Center.

When patients identified with stroke arrive at the emergency department (ED) of a partner facility, emergency physicians perform a rapid assessment, order a CT scan and then request a telestroke consult. Within minutes, a Cleveland Clinic stroke neurologist will work remotely with the ED staff. Together they check vital signs, perform an examination, review results of the CT scan and make treatment recommendations.

Since its inception, the Cleveland Clinic telestroke program has supported over 30 hospitals or freestanding EDs; and has completed over 20,000 evaluations; and administered over 1,800 doses of clot-busting medication.

Parrish Healthcare Announces Community Support Group Schedule for March

Parrish Healthcare’s Fearless Café
A collaboration with St. Francis Reflections Life Stages Care, this group shares a casual discussion about advanced directives, power of attorney, wills, living wills and all of the often, scary conversations about death and dying.

Parrish Healthcare Mom’s Support Group
A group for mothers with babies ages birth to six months. During this time, moms will be able to discuss topics such as infant feeding, sleeping, milestones, car seats, play, development, post-partum care, birth control, post-partum depression, dietary needs and much more. Space is limited.

Parrish Healthcare Diabetes Support Group
This support group is for anyone age 18 and older with diabetes. Join us for tips to live better with this disease. When: Mon., Mar. 11; 3-4:30 p.m.

Parrish Healthcare’s Amputee Support Group of Titusville
A safe and supportive environment for individuals living with limb loss or limb difference as well as their family. Join us for resources, education, fellowship, refreshments, and snacks on the second Tuesday of every month.

Parrish Healthcare’s Caring for Caregivers Support Group
Care giving is a rewarding, yet demanding labor of love. Join us to learn how to care for yourself while you care for your loved one.

Parrish Healthcare Stroke and Heart Survivors Support Group
If you’ve experienced a diagnosis or event, or are caring for someone living with heart disease or stroke, our community is here to support you.

Early Steps Community Play Date
A special play date for children five and under and their parent(s)/guardian(s).

Parrish Healthcare Cancer and Survivor Support Group
This group is for cancer patients, cancer survivors and anyone touched by the disease. Enjoy refreshments and talk with others sharing similar situations and experiences.

Parrish Healthcare A.W.A.K.E Sleep Support
This group is dedicated to exchanging information and increasing awareness of sleep, sleeping disorders, and related health concerns. Everyone with an interest in sleep and health is encouraged to attend.

Kidney Smart Class
Take control of your kidney health by attending a 90-minute, no-cost Kidney Smart class led by expert educators in your community. You’ll learn about chronic kidney disease and its causes, diet and nutrition, benefits of employment and managing insurance, and treatment choices that may be available to you.

Tools to Quit Smoking Now
We know quitting tobacco isn’t easy but finding help should be. Parrish Healthcare has partnered with Tobacco Free Florida to offer this free class which equips those to use tobacco with tools and services to quit.

For more information about available classes, support groups and events, visit parrishhealthcare.com/events.

Parrish Medical Group Welcomes Primary Care Provider Andreana Leggett, APRN

Leggett provides her patients comprehensive primary care including, but not limited to, assessing patients; ordering, performing, supervising and interpreting diagnostic and laboratory tests; making diagnoses; initiating and managing treatment, including prescribing medication and non-pharmacologic treatments; coordinating care; counseling; and educating patients, their families and their communities.

Leggett earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Herzing University in Orlando, FL and her Master of Science in Nursing degree from South University in Orlando, FL. She has received advanced educational training in pediatric advanced life support, basic life support, advanced cardiovascular life support and as a family nurse practitioner. Leggett also currently holds certification from the National Institute of Health in the administration and scoring of the stroke scale.

New patients are welcome, most insurance plans accepted. To schedule an appointment, or for more information visit parrishhealthcare.com, or call 321-268-6868.

Titusville Fire Department Raises Awareness and Funds in Support of Parrish Healthcare’s Oncology Program

Titusville Fire Department demonstrated their dedication by going pink for the cause during the month of October for their 2023 Pink Out campaign. As part of nationwide and local efforts to raise breast cancer awareness, department members continued their tradition of selling and wearing pink-themed T-shirts in place of their uniform shirts to observe breast cancer awareness month.

For the ninth year, Titusville Fire has generously given back to JPMF and supported Parrish Healthcare’s oncology program. In addition to releasing a new design for the limited-edition TFD Breast Cancer Awareness T-shirts, sweatshirts and stainless-steel tumblers provided by Printboy, silicon pint tumblers (Silipint) were included in this year’s campaign fundraising selections.

“October is an exciting time of year for Titusville Fire. The department looks forward to raising awareness of breast cancer while joining forces with the community to give back locally to Jess Parrish Medical Foundation through the annual T-shirt campaign,” stated Gregory Sutton, battalion chief of administration, public information officer. “Knowing that the services provided by Parrish Healthcare’s oncology program are helping those in need really hits home for us. We will continue to support the Foundation and all they do to help those navigating this terrible disease.”

Screenings remain a top priority for Parrish Healthcare. “The oncology program at Parrish, the area’s only program that is nationally accredited by the Commission on Cancer, continues to provide free life-saving mammograms to those most in need; those that are out of work, under-insured or without insurance, and those struggling with high deductibles,” said Shannon Luker, Parrish Healthcare breast health navigator and oncology program coordinator. “We are grateful to TFD and all those in the community that supported this year’s campaign. It is gratifying to be part of a community that comes together to help provide the vital resources for cancer screenings that enable us to identify cancer in earlier stages, resulting in better patient outcomes.”

“The vital support provided by Titusville Fire will provide the availability of additional resources and opportunities to those we serve in North Brevard that may not otherwise have access to these critical services and care,” said Randall Coleman, JPMF board chair. “We are grateful to our community partner, Titusville Fire Department, for their ongoing commitment to Parrish Healthcare and helping to advance our vision of Healing Families—Healing Communities®.

For more information, contact Jess Parrish Medical Foundation at 321-269-4066 or visit parrishmedfoundation.com.

Parrish Medical Group Welcomes Oncologist Marinely Cruz-Amy, MD

Dr. Cruz-Amy received her medical degree from Universidad Central del Caribe School of Medicine and completed her advanced subspecialty Fellowship in blood and bone marrow transplant at Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida. She has been in practice for more than 10 years and specializes in hematologic oncology with expertise in treating lung cancer, prostate cancer, among other conditions. Dr. Cruz-Amy is also fluent in English and Spanish.

Dr. Cruz-Amy will be conveniently located in the Parrish Oncology Center at 830 Century Medical Drive, Suite B, Titusville, FL. New patients are welcome. Most insurance plans accepted. To schedule an appointment, call 321-268-6831.

Dr. Cruz-Amy also joins Parrish Healthcare's oncology program team of experts. As Brevard's only Commission on Cancer (CoC) certified program and Surgical Quality Partner of the American College of Surgeon's, Parrish Healthcare's oncology program offers a comprehensive, patient- centered approach to cancer prevention, treatment and recovery.

For more information about Dr. Cruz-Amy, Parrish Medical Group, or the oncology program at Parrish Healthcare, visit parrishhealthcare.com.

Parrish Medical Center Tackles Leading Cause of Death Among Young Athletes; Equips North Brevard Youth Athletic Leagues with Lifesaving AEDs

"We believe every school and youth sports field should have access to an AED," said Parrish Healthcare President/CEO George Mikitarian.

"Every two to three days in the U. S., a young athlete dies as the result of sudden cardiac arrest," according to The Sports Institute. In fact, sudden cardiac arrest is the number one cause of sudden death in young athletes.

Every youth sports league in North Brevard has received brand new, state-of-the-art AEDs courtesy of Parrish Healthcare.

"The survival rate from sudden cardiac arrest in schools with AEDs is 7x higher than those without," said Parrish Healthcare Athletic Training Director Kellie Way.

"When trained first-responders are on-site and able to quickly perform CPR and use an AED, lives and heart muscle are saved, further improving the odds for a fast and full recovery," added Way.

In the midst of play or practice, cardiac arrest happens suddenly. With no warning, a young athlete can suddenly collapse as was the case when 24-year-old Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin's heart stopped in the middle of a game on national television. The first-responders performed CPR and used an AED to restore his heart rhythm.

"Parrish Medical Center's outstanding Athletic Training Program, led by dedicated Director Kellie Way, has been a game changer for our Titusville Terrier Youth Sports Association. The comprehensive training opportunities, including CPR and AED training for coaches and board members, have not only enhanced our athletes' performance but also prioritized their safety," said Janay Gelin, Public Relations Director, Titusville Terrier Youth Sports Association.

"This partnership, coupled with life-saving skills acquired, ensured a secure and successful season. Looking ahead, we are confident that these invaluable trainings will continue to benefit our teams in seasons to come," added Gelin.

More than 400 children throughout north Brevard participate each sport season. When you add coaches, faculty, parents and other spectators, the number of lives this initiative benefits are significant.

With the deployment of these AEDs, Parrish Medical Center expands upon its commitment to prevent sudden cardiac arrest and other sports injuries among young athletes.

Parrish Medical Group Sports Medicine and Athletic Training has long provided a board- certified Sports Medicine physician, Dr. Anthony Allotta, and certified Athletic Trainers to support the coaches and athletes on the fields during practice and at the games. Additionally, the Parrish Sports Medicine and Athletic Training program annually provides access to affordable sports physicals to North Brevard students and was the catalyst to the partnership with Who We Play For, a likeminded nonprofit that exists to eliminate preventable sudden cardiac death in the young through affordable heart screenings and AEDs.

The AEDs were funded by a grant from the Jess Parrish Medical Foundation, a Parrish Healthcare integrated partner. For more information about Parrish Healthcare or its Sports Medicine program, visit parrishhealthcare.com.

Jess Parrish Medical Foundation Receives
$14,058 Grant from Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation

to support safety across the U.S. TITUSVILLE, FLA. (Feb. 8, 2024) – Jess Parrish Medical Foundation (JPMF) was recently awarded a $14,058 grant from Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation to support Parrish Healthcare’s (PHC) Emergency Response Team (ERT) with fire safety emergency preparedness training. Funds from the grant will be used to purchase a Bullseye™ Digital Fire Extinguisher Training System, fulfilling a significant need within Parrish Healthcare.

“The Bullseye™ Digital Fire Extinguisher Training System will provide the employees, physicians and volunteers of Parrish Healthcare with the life-saving skills necessary to ensure safety for all in the event of a fire,” said Ericka Jacobs, emergency services director. “Having the appropriate tools on hand makes all the difference in allowing us to effectively serve our community and all those we have the privilege to serve.”

During PHC’s Fire Response Educational Summit held on January 17, Titusville Fire Department partnered with the ERT to provide hands-on training of the “The Bullseye™ system; knowledge of fire, disaster and safety procedures and regulations; the Joint Commission Environment of Care and Life Safety standards; and PHC’s fire response plan and protocols designed to maintain and restore operations during emergency incidents.

“On behalf of the Foundation, I want to thank the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation and Britt and Jeff Diaz, our local Firehouse Subs Titus Landing franchise owners for recognizing our needs and awarding funding to provide this equipment,” said JPMF Board Chair, Randall Coleman. “Providing our Emergency Response Team with this training tool is crucial for them to successfully do their jobs.”

For the past 18 years, donations have been the driving force behind Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation® supporting first responders and public safety organizations nationwide.

Parrish Medical Center an American College of Surgeons Surgical Quality Partner

TITUSVILLE, FLA. (February 1, 2024)— Parrish Medical Center's (PMC) Oncology Program has earned the American College of Surgeon's Commission on Cancer's (CoC) accreditation since 1990. As a CoC- accredited institution, Parrish Medical Center recently also became an American College of Surgeons (ACS) Surgical Quality Partner. According to the ACS, being a Surgical Quality Partner signifies an institution's dedication to consistently improving procedures and approaches, while maintaining a critical eye on process at every step.

The Surgical Quality Partner designation lets patients know Parrish Medical Center is dedicated to quality and relentless self-improvement and has been verified or accredited by the ACS. Patients can trust that the care they receive at Surgical Quality Partner hospitals adheres to the most rigorous standards in surgical quality.

"ACS Quality programs are grounded in more than a century of experience and participation is an important measure of a hospital's surgical quality. As an ACS Surgical Quality Partner, Parrish Medical Center has shown a commitment providing the best possible patient care, evaluating that care in a rigorous fashion, and dedicating themselves to continuous self-improvement," said ACS Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer Patricia L. Turner, MD, MBA, FACS.

"We value transparency and routinely invite rigorous evaluations of the care provided by our dedicated, expert teams of Care Partners from independent organizations like the ACS to constantly challenge ourselves in the pursuit of excellence," said Parrish Healthcare President/CEO George Mikitarian. "As a Surgical Quality Partner and a nationally certified integrated care organization, we stay focused on the future of health care, reducing duplication, improving quality, and reducing health care costs."

Parrish Medical Center's surgical services team are experienced in urgent, emergent, inpatient, and outpatient surgeries from general surgery procedures to the very latest in robotic-assisted surgical procedures. For more information visit parrishhealthcare.com/services.

Parrish Medical Center Primary Stroke Center Recognized for Continued Treatment Excellence

Parrish Medical Center underwent a rigorous onsite review on January 19, 2024. During the visit, the Joint Commission reviewer evaluated compliance with leading evidence-based stroke treatment standards. Joint Commission standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. The evaluation included onsite observations and interviews.

“Primary Stroke Certification recognizes healthcare organizations committed to striving for excellence and fostering continuous improvement in patient safety and quality of care,” says Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, executive vice president of Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing officer, The Joint Commission. “We commend Parrish Medical Center for using The Joint Commission certification process to reduce variation in clinical processes and to strengthen its clinical program to drive safer, higher quality and more compassionate care for individuals served.”

“We congratulate Parrish Medical Center for this outstanding achievement,” says Nancy Brown, chief executive officer, the American Stroke Association. “This certification reflects its commitment to providing the highest quality of care for stroke patients.”

Stroke is a leading cause of death in Florida. Growing research shows, however, that stroke patients' outcomes can be significantly improved when they receive treatment from an organized stroke system of care.

“The Joint Commission established the Primary Stroke Center program to set a care standard to protect and save lives,” said George Mikitarian, Parrish Medical Center president & CEO. “Meeting that standard takes tremendous commitment, resources, and work, but we have long dedicated ourselves to providing the highest levels of patient safety, clinical quality, and healing patient experiences on behalf of the people and communities we serve.”

“This Joint Commission’s Gold Seal affirmation of Parrish Medical Center’s quality stroke care means that patients and families can have confidence in the objective measurement, accomplishment, and results, of Parrish Medical Center’s treatment program,” Mikitarian added.

“Quick administration of a drug called tPA to dissolve a stroke-causing blood clot and restore blood flow is part of The Joint Commission’s standards followed by Parrish Medical Center,” said Gregory P. Cuculino, MD, FACEP, emergency department medical director. “In many cases the drug results in the patient having minimal or no neurological damage from the stroke,” said Dr. Cuculino, “It’s one aspect of our approach to stroke care, which includes prevention, treatment and rehabilitation while always working as a team.”

Hospitals were eligible to apply voluntarily for Primary Stroke Center certification from the Joint Commission in 2003. The certification standards comply with the Brain Attack Coalition’s proposed organized stroke system of care. The proposed organized system of care promotes EMS routing acute patients to Primary Stroke Centers, and Comprehensive Stroke Centers, able to provide proven stroke care reliably and rapidly.

In 2004 PMC became the first health system in Brevard and third in the state of Florida to earn The Joint Commission’s Primary Stroke Center certification. And, every two years since 2004, The Joint Commission has evaluated and recertified Parrish Medical Center’s Primary Stroke Center.

Zumpano Patricios Return as Title Sponsor of the 2024 Jess Parrish Medical Foundation Golf Classic

More than 200 golfers are expected to play the two-course tournament with all proceeds benefiting The Children’s Center (TCC), a service of Parrish Healthcare, and one-stop childhood development resource center. TCC provides a safe and healing environment for special needs and/or typically developing children to learn and grow, along with an array of health, education and human services under one roof.

“Zumpano Patricios is honored to continue our years of partnership with Jess Parrish Medical Foundation as title sponsor for the 2024 Fran Gerrett Memorial Golf Classic,” stated Joseph I. Zumpano, managing shareholder at Zumpano Patricios. “We are proud to again support the golf classic, hoping that the impact of our contribution will help provide vital programs and services at The Children’s Center for the children of our community, particularly during the developmental years of their childhood."

Tournament players can choose between two golf courses – Indian River Preserve Golf Club with its rich, lush rolling fairways designed by Perry Dye and LPGA champion Jan Stephenson or The Great Outdoors Golf Club with the beautiful natural environment of the St. Johns wildlife refuge. Course selection is first-come, first choice with paid registration.

Event registration begins at 7:30 a.m. with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. The tournament format will be a four-player scramble with exciting contests, including a chance to win a $1,000 cash prize when purchasing a chance drawing ticket for $20. The $1,000 prize drawing will take place at the event. Those purchasing tickets need not be present to win. The tournament will conclude with an awards ceremony recognizing top teams at each course.

Fran Gerrett served as the director of Materials Management at Parrish Medical Center for 24 years. Fran passed away in 2012, but the annual golf tournament lives on as a tribute to his longtime dedication to our community and favorite charity, The Children’s Center.

Event co-chairs are Amy Craddock and Leigh Spradling. Other members of the committee include Santi Bulnes, Nadine Itani, Kathy Myer, Jeff Riley, Kathy Simonsen, Greg Sparkman and Kristina Weaver.

The 2023 tournament sold out months in advance. Space and sponsorships are limited so don’t miss this opportunity. A variety of sponsorship opportunities are available beginning at $500. For information on sponsor opportunities, or to purchase chance drawing tickets, visit www.parrishmedfoundation.com/golf, or contact Jess Parrish Medical Foundation at (321) 269-4066.

Parrish Medical Center announces Board appointments

During their December 2023 meetings, Brevard County Commissioners appointed Aton and reappointed Dr. Galfo for four‐year terms; and Titusville City Council reappointed Colonel Cole and confirmed the County’s reappointment of Dr. Galfo. Cole, a Titusville City Council member, abstained from the voting during the reappointment procedures.

Aton, an entrepreneur and technology executive with more than 30 years of experience in the technology arena with a special concentration on sports. Aton founded two significant companies in the sport technology market, servicing more than 300 college and pro sports organizations. In 2014, Aton founded 8K Solutions which designs and manufactures innovative video and analysis products primarily used by the NFL and top tier College programs. In 1999, Aton founded XOS Technologies, a sports technology provider in collegiate and professional sports. He was named Entrepreneur of the Year by Orlando Business Journal in 2006 and also received the William C. Schwartz Industry Innovation Award by the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission in 2011. Aton also participates as a board member on the North Brevard Economic Development Zone, Titusville Planning and Zoning Commission and has served on boards for Greater Titusville Renaissance, Titusville YMCA, Hope for North Brevard Charities, North Brevard Medical Support Board, and other civic organizations.

Aton replaces outgoing board member Jerry L. Noffel, a retired healthcare executive, who served from 2002 to 2023. Noffel, during his Board tenure, served in many roles including Treasurer, Member‐at‐Large, Finance Committee, Medical Staff Review Committee, North Brevard Medical Support Liaison, Audit Committee, Ad Hoc Credentials Committee, just to name a few. Retired U. S. Air Force (USAF) Colonel and Vietnam veteran, Cole has served on the PMC Board since 2002 and has served in various other Board capacities including past‐Chairman of the Board and Treasurer. Colonel Cole earned a Master of Architecture and a Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Science from Tuskegee University. Colonel Cole has an extensive background in directing, managing, and administering large, worldwide construction projects.

Dr. Galfo is a Hospice and Palliative Medicine Physician with St. Francis Reflections Lifestage Care, and served as the Chief Medical Officer/Medical Director for the organization from 1997 to 2020. Dr. Galfo has served as a member of the PMC Medical Staff since 1993 and practiced medicine as a Major in the 4th Medical Support Group at Seymour Air Force Base, North Carolina, during Desert Shield/Storm. Dr. Galfo is a certified Hospice Medical Director and holds board certifications in Internal Medicine, Geriatric Medicine, and Hospice and Palliative Care Medicine.

PMC’s nine‐member Board of Directors consist of three Brevard County Board of Commissioner appointments; three City of Titusville appointments; and three County and City joint appointments.

PMC’s Board of Directors includes:

1. Robert L. Jordan, Jr., Board Chairman since 2021. Board member since 1998.
2. Stanley Retz, CPA, Vice Chairman since 2021. Board member since 2012.
3. Herman A. Cole. Jr. Col, USAF (Ret), Treasurer. Board member since 2002.
4. Elizabeth Galfo, MD, Secretary. Board member since 2015.
5. Maureen E. Rupe, Member‐at‐Large. Board member since 2002.
6. Billie Fitzgerald, Board member since 2002.
7. Ashok C. Shah, MD, Board member since 2012.
8. Billy Specht, Board member since 2022.
9. Dan Aton, Board member since 2024.

For more information, visit
https://www.parrishhealthcare.com/about‐us/governance‐andleadership/.

Parrish Healthcare Announces Community Support Group Schedule for January

Parrish Healthcare’s Fearless Café
A collaboration with St. Francis Reflections Life Stages Care, this group shares a casual discussion about advanced directives, power of attorney, wills, living wills and all of the often, scary conversations about death and dying.

• When: Wed., Jan. 3; 10-11 a.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/FearlessCafe

Parrish Healthcare Mom’s Support Group
A group for mothers with babies ages birth to six months. During this time, moms will be able to discuss topics such as infant feeding, sleeping, milestones, car seats, play, development, post-partum care, birth control, post-partum depression, dietary needs and much more. Space is limited.

• When: Mon., Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29; 10-11 a.m.
• Where: The Children’s Center, 5650 S. Washington Ave., Titusville
• For additional information and to register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/Moms

Parrish Healthcare Diabetes Support Group
This support group is for anyone age 18 and older with diabetes. Join us for tips to live better with this disease.

• When: Mon., Jan. 8; 3-4:30 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Peggy McLaughlin, BSN, RN, CDCES
• For additional information, please contact Peggy McLaughlin at 321-268-6699.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/DiabetesSupport

Parrish Healthcare’s Amputee Support Group of Titusville
A safe and supportive environment for individuals living with limb loss or limb difference as well as their family. Join us for resources, education, fellowship, refreshments, and snacks on the second Tuesday of every month.

• When: Tues., Jan. 9; 3-4:30 p.m.
• Where: Manatee Conference Room, Parrish Healthcare Center Port St. John, 5005 Port
• St. John Pkwy, Port St. John
• For more information and to register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/amputeesupport

Parrish Healthcare’s Caring for Caregivers Support Group
Care giving is a rewarding, yet demanding labor of love. Join us to learn how to care for yourself while you care for your loved one.

• When: Thurs., Jan. 11, 25; 9:30-11:30 a.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/CaregiverSupport

Parrish Healthcare Stroke and Heart Survivors Support Group
If you’ve experienced a diagnosis or event, or are caring for someone living with heart disease or stroke, our community is here to support you.

• When: Tues., Jan. 16, 20; 2-4 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/StrokeandHeartSupport

Early Steps Community Play Date A special play date for children five and under and their parent(s)/guardian(s).

• When: Wed., Jan. 17; 9-10:30 a.m.
• Where: The Children’s Center, 5650 S. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Mary Cancel, Family Resource Specialist
• For additional information visit parrishhealthcare.com/EarlySteps

Parrish Healthcare Cancer and Survivor Support Group This group is for cancer patients, cancer survivors and anyone touched by the disease. Enjoy refreshments and talk with others sharing similar situations and experiences.

• When: Wed., Jan. 17; 4-5:30 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Shannon Luker, RN, BSN, OCN, CBCN
• For additional information, please contact Shannon Luker at 321-268-6111, ext. 3544.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/CancerSupport

Kidney Smart Class
Take control of your kidney health by attending a 90-minute, no-cost Kidney Smart class led by expert educators in your community. You’ll learn about chronic kidney disease and its causes, diet and nutrition, benefits of employment and managing insurance, and treatment choices that may be available to you.

• When: Thurs., Jan. 25; 1-2:30 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• For more information and to register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/kidneysmart

Tools to Quit Smoking Now
We know quitting tobacco isn’t easy but finding help should be. Parrish Healthcare has partnered with Tobacco Free Florida to offer this free class which equips those to use tobacco with tools and services to quit.

• When: Tues., Jan. 30; 5:30-7:30 p.m.
• Where: Parrish Medical Center, 951 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Jennifer Wolowitz, Tobacco Free Florida 407-889-2292 ext. 102
• For more information and to register, visit: parrishhealthcare.com/quitsmoking

For more information about available classes, support groups and events, visit: parrishhealthcare.com/events.

Parrish Healthcare Introducing Metal Detectors at Parrish Medical Center

TITUSVILLE, FL (Dec. 8, 2023)— Parrish Healthcare is introducing walk-through metal detectors at Parrish Medical Center (PMC). Metal detector screenings will begin at PMC’s Emergency Department public entrance on Monday, December 11, 2023, at 7 am. Security will be posted 24/7 at the Emergency Department entrance to manage the screening process. The main public entrance to PMC is scheduled to begin metal detector screenings during the first quarter of 2024.

“This added level of screening enhances our complement of security capabilities and helps to fortify our ability to prevent firearms, weapons or other prohibited contraband from being brought into the hospital,” said Parrish Healthcare Safety and Security Director Greg George.

All screenings are conducted in an orderly manner that is consistent to industry standards, conforming to legal regulations, and with minimal intrusion to privacy rights.

“Our policy is not intended to prohibit individuals from keeping lawfully possessed firearms locked inside a private motor vehicle in our parking lot. If a firearm or weapon is detected we will ask the individual to either lock it in their motor vehicle or we will secure it for them while on the premises and return it when they leave the facility,” added George.

To learn about Parrish Healthcare visit parrishhealthcare.com.

Kevat Patel, MD, Parrish Healthcare Earns Certification in Health Care Quality and Management

TITUSVILLE, FL (Nov. 27)— Kevat Patel, MD, of Parrish Healthcare received his certification in Health Care Quality & Management (HCQM) from the American Board of Quality Assurance and Utilization Review Physicians (ABQAURP).

Earning the HCQM Certification demonstrates that the practicing professional has practical knowledge and tools that can reduce medical errors, ensure patient safety, eliminate waste and unnecessary services, while avoiding potentially harmful delays in care.

Certification demonstrates accountability. The result is a safer, more efficient and cost-effective system that better satisfies the needs of patients, providers, purchasers, and payers. Professionals achieving this certification are deeply committed to patient safety, health care quality, and effective care.

Dr. Patel serves as the Medical Director for Parrish Medical Group, and is the Director of the Hospitalist group at Parrish Medical Center where he also serves as Chair, of the Department of Medicine.

Dr. Patel is an active member of the Society of Hospital Medicine, American Medical Association, American College of Physicians and a contributing member of the Harvard Alumni in Healthcare. Having conducted extensive research in his area of expertise with publication in many academic journals, Dr. Patel is passionate about the fields of Primary Care medicine, Hospitalist medicine, Behavioral Health and Epidemiology.

Parrish Medical Group Primary Care Welcomes Paul Wong, MD

Paul Wong, MD

TITUSVILLE, FLA. (December 1, 2023)—Parrish Healthcare and Parrish Medical Group are pleased to welcome Paul Wong, MD, to the North Brevard community. Dr. Wong is a Family Medicine physician with Parrish Medical Group Primary Care, located at the Parrish Healthcare Center, 250 Harrison Street, Titusville, FL 32780.

Dr. Wong attended the University College of Dublin, Ireland and completed his residency at the University of South Carolina School of Family Medicine. He is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and Christian Medical Dental Association, and speaks multiple languages including English, Cantonese, Mandarin, Spanish, and French.

In his free time, Dr. Wong enjoys learning about new cultures, participating in triathlons, surfing, trail running, paddle boarding, painting, and experimenting with new whole food plant-based recipes.

New patients are welcome and most insurance plans are accepted. To schedule an appointment, call 321-268-6868 or for online scheduling visit parrishhealthcare.com/parrish-medical-group.

Nimesh H. Naik, MD, Parrish Medical Center Infectious Disease Doctor Earns National Distinction

TITUSVILLE, FL (Nov. 20)— Nimesh H. Naik, MD, of Parrish Medical Center, has been named a Fellow by the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA). Fellowship in IDSA (FIDSA) is one of the highest honors in the field of infectious diseases. It recognizes distinguished physicians and scientists from the United States and around the world who have achieved professional excellence and provided significant service to the profession.

Dr. Naik is a graduate of the University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia, and completed Infectious Disease training at Buffalo University, The State University for New York (SUNY). He currently practices at Parrish Medical Center in Titusville Florida. His particular areas of interest are Actinomycosis (a long-term (chronic) bacterial infection that commonly affects the face and neck), HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis viral infections, as well as bone and joint infections.

“The 219 individuals chosen to receive the FIDSA designation this year are on the front lines of discovery, patient care and public health, and we are proud to honor their work and dedication,” said Carlos del Rio, MD, FIDSA, president of IDSA. “These ID physicians and scientists represent the passion and commitment needed to educate leaders around the globe about current and future health threats. We all benefit from their pivotal contributions to our local communities and expertise within the field of medicine. I am proud to work and learn alongside them.”

“On behalf of the Medical Staff, our entire family of Parrish Healthcare Care Partners, and the patients we have the honor serve, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Naik for earning this distinguished honor. Being recognized by ones’ peers is indeed among the highest honors,” said Parrish Medical Center Medical Staff President Aluino L. Ochoa, MD.

Applicants for IDSA Fellowship must be nominated by their peers and meet specified criteria that include continuing identification with the field of infectious diseases, national or regional recognition and publication of their scholarly work. Nominees are reviewed and elected by the IDSA Board of Directors. Fellows of IDSA work in many different settings, including clinical practice, teaching, research, public health and health care administration.

Parrish Healthcare Welcomes New Chief Nursing Officer Lisa Dickerson

Lisa Dickerson, Vice President, Nursing Administration and Chief Nursing Officer

TITUSVILLE, FL (Nov. 16, 2023) – Parrish Healthcare is pleased to welcome Lisa Dickerson, RN, BSN, MBA, as its Vice President, Nursing Administration and Chief Nursing Officer (CNO). Dickerson is a transformational results-driven nurse executive with 23 years of community hospital experience and 15 of those years in leadership roles.

“I am thrilled to join the Parrish Healthcare family of care partners and the North Brevard community,” said Dickerson.

Dickerson has a strong track record of exceeding patient experience expectations and cultivating a safe, healing work environment that is dedicated to exceptional clinical care.

“I wanted to join an organization that is focused on the patient and their experience and providing a safe environment for all, and I found that in Parrish, added Dickerson.

Of her leadership style, Dickerson describes herself as a servant leader focused on coaching, mentoring, engagement and development of clinical professionals and the next generation of nurse leaders. Dickerson earned her Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Healthcare Administration from Brenau University, Gainesville, GA; and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Armstrong Atlantic State University, Savannah, GA.

Dickerson replaces immediate-past Chief Nursing Officer Edwin Loftin who retired after 15 years of meritorious service to Parrish Healthcare and the North Brevard Community in 2023.

Parrish Medical Center to Host Gift of Light Community Celebration presented by Norris Automotive

TITUSVILLE, FL (Nov. 2, 2023) Join Parrish Medical Center and Jess Parrish Medical Foundation, Thur., Dec. 7, 5:30-7:30 pm for the Annual Gift of Light Community Celebration presented by Norris Automotive. The event is FREE and everyone is invited!

This holiday tradition that began more than 30 years ago as a humble tree lighting, has grown into an event that attracts thousands. Holiday magic fills the air as everyone delights in the lighting of our spectacular Christmas tree with 37,000 lights.

The grand Christmas tree isn’t the only thing that lights up the night. The breathtaking fireworks display, sponsored by Injury Centers of Brevard and Apogee Physicians, signifies the end of the event while also welcomes the start of the Christmas season.

In addition to the amazing light displays, Gift of Light delights guests with musical and dance performances. This year, entertainment includes, Titusville High School Orchestra, Space Coast Junior/Senior High School Sound Wave, Astronaut High School Jazz Band, The Titusville Playhouse and Keegan Performance Dance Studio. Artistic and Creative Executive Director of the Titusville Playhouse, Steven Heron, will emcee the event.

Held in the park on the Parrish Medical Center campus, the tents and market lighting set an enchanting scene. Santa and Mrs. Claus will make a special appearance for photos and to hear Christmas wishes. Children will love visiting Santa’s Workshops for holiday crafts and cookie decorating. Face painters, a balloon artist, and Santa’s elves make sure guests have a magical, memorable experience. Complimentary hot chocolate, cyder and cookies add to the event’s magic.

Back, by popular demand, are eight of the community’s favorite food trucks. Service begins at 4:30 pm.

An event like this cannot happen without the support of community leaders and sponsors. We deeply appreciate the support of Titusville City Leaders, the Titusville Police Department and Titusville Fire Department. We thank, as well, our generous sponsors, Norris Automotive, title sponsor; Injury Centers of Brevard and Apogee Physicians, Fireworks Sponsor; Robin Fisher State Farm, North Pole Sponsor and System Tech Services, Santa’s Workshop Sponsor. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. For information, contact Matthew Morak, director of Jess Parrish Medical Foundation at 321-269-4066.

Parrish Healthcare to Participate in National Lung Cancer Screening Day

TITUSVILLE, FL (Nov. 1, 2023) Parrish Healthcare will participate in National Lung Cancer Screening Day on Sat., Nov. 11. Younger and middle-aged women now have higher rates of lung cancer – the nation’s worst cancer killer – than men, giving added urgency to the need for North Brevard County women and men to take advantage of this opportunity to be screened.

American Cancer Society (ACS) researchers published the lung cancer study’s findings about women’s increased cancer rates in the Oct. 12, 2023 edition of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Oncology.

“These findings are very concerning,” said Dr. Ahmedin Jemal, the paper’s lead author, in a news release on the ACS study. “We don’t know why lung cancer incidence rates among younger and middle-aged individuals are now higher in women than men, reversing the historical pattern.”

Data show that only one in 10 eligible people are being screened for lung cancer. To find out if a screening is right for you, visit parrishhealthcare.com/lungscan for a FREE assessment.

Parrish Healthcare’s low-dose CT lung cancer scans are scheduled from 8a.m.-noon on Nov. 11, 2023, at Parrish Healthcare Center, 250 Harrison St., in Titusville. To schedule a screening, call 321-268-6150.

“Cancer treatment is remarkably consistent: the sooner it’s discovered, the greater the opportunity to treat it,” said Dr. Dennis Tishko, Parrish Medical Group thoracic surgeon. “The longer it goes undetected and untreated, the more dangerous it becomes. Treatment options become more urgent in terms of lifesaving measures.”

A low dose CT scan, the American Lung Association says, “is a special kind of X-ray that takes multiple pictures as you lie on a table that slides in and out of the machine. A computer then combines these images into a detailed picture of your lungs.”

Parrish’s oncology program is Brevard County’s only cancer program to have earned accreditation from the Commission on Cancer. Parrish first achieved CoC accreditation in 1990, making its program the area’s longest continuously accredited program.

For more information about National Lung Cancer Screening Day and Parrish Healthcare low dose CT lung cancer screening, visit parrishhealthcare.com/oncology.

Parrish Healthcare Announces Community Support Group Schedule for November

TITUSVILLE, FL (October 24, 2023) — Parrish Healthcare offers a variety of support groups as a free service to the community. The November 2023 schedule is as follows:

Parrish Healthcare Mom’s Support Group
A group for mothers with babies ages birth to six months. During this time, moms will be able to discuss topics such as infant feeding, sleeping, milestones, car seats, play, development, post-partum care, birth control, post-partum depression, dietary needs and much more. Space is limited.
· When: Mon., Nov. 6, 13, 20; 10-11 a.m.
· Where: The Children’s Center, 5650 S. Washington Ave., Titusville
· For additional information and to register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/Moms

Parrish Healthcare’s Fearless Café
A collaboration with St. Francis Reflections Life Stages Care, this group shares a casual discussion about advanced directives, power of attorney, wills, living wills and all of the often, scary conversations about death and dying.
· When: Wed., Nov. 1; 10-11 a.m.
· Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
· Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
· For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
· To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/FearlessCafe

Parrish Healthcare Diabetes Support Group
This support group is for anyone age 18 and older with diabetes. Join us for tips to live better with this disease.
· When: Mon., Nov. 13; 3-4:30 p.m.
· Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N Washington Ave., Titusville
· Facilitated by Peggy McLaughlin, BSN, RN, CDCES
· For additional information, please contact Peggy McLaughlin at 321-268-6699.
· To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/DiabetesSupport

Parrish Healthcare A.W.A.K.E Sleep Support
This group is dedicated to exchanging information and increasing awareness of sleep, sleeping disorders, and related health concerns. Everyone with an interest in sleep and health is encouraged to attend.
· When: Mon., Nov. 13; 6-8 p.m.
· Where: Manatee Conference Room, 5005 Port St. John Pkwy., Port St. John
· For additional information, please contact the Sleep Support team, at 321-268-6408.
· To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/SleepSupport

Parrish Healthcare’s Caring for Caregivers Support Group
Care giving is a rewarding, yet demanding labor of love. Join us to learn how to care for yourself while you care for your loved one.
· When: Thurs., Nov. 9; 9:30-11:30 a.m.
· Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
· Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
· For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
· To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/CaregiverSupport

Parrish Healthcare Stroke and Heart Survivors Support Group
If you’ve experienced a diagnosis or event, or are caring for someone living with heart disease or stroke, our community is here to support you.
· When: Tues., Nov. 21; 2-4 p.m.
· Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
· Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
· For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
· To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/StrokeandHeartSupport

Early Steps Community Play Date
A special play date for children five and under and their parent(s)/guardian(s).
· When: Wed., Nov. 15; 9-10:30 a.m.
· Where: The Children’s Center, 5650 S. Washington Ave., Titusville
· Facilitated by Mary Cancel, Family Resource Specialist
· For additional information visit parrishhealthcare.com/EarlySteps

Parrish Healthcare Cancer and Survivor Support Group
This group is for cancer patients, cancer survivors and anyone touched by the disease. Enjoy refreshments and talk with others sharing similar situations and experiences.
· When: Wed., Nov. 15; 4-5:30 p.m.
· Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
· Facilitated by Shannon Luker, RN, BSN, OCN, CBCN
· For additional information, please contact Shannon Luker at 321-268-6111, ext. 3544.
· To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/CancerSupport

Tools to Quit Smoking Now
We know quitting tobacco isn’t easy but finding help should be. Parrish Healthcare has partnered with Tobacco Free Florida to offer this free class which equips those to use tobacco with tools and services to quit.
· When: Tues., Nov. 28; 5:30-7:30 p.m.
· Where: Parrish Medical Center, 951 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
· For more information and to register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/quitsmoking

Kidney Smart Class
Take control of your kidney health by attending a 90-minute, no-cost Kidney Smart class led by expert educators in your community. You’ll learn about chronic kidney disease and its causes, diet and nutrition, benefits of employment and managing insurance, and treatment choices that may be available to you.
· When: Thurs., Nov. 30; 1-2:30 p.m.
· Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
· For more information and to register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/kidneysmart

Amputee Support Group of Titusville
A safe and supportive environment for individuals living with limb loss or limb difference as well as their family. Join us for resources, education, fellowship, refreshments, and snacks on the second Tuesday of every month.
· When: Tues., Nov. 14; 3-4:30 p.m.
· Where: Manatee Conference Room, Parrish Healthcare Center Port St. John, 5005 Port St. John Pkwy, Port St. John
· For more information and to register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/AmputeeSupport

For more information about available classes, support groups and events, visit parrishhealthcare.com/events.

Jess Parrish Medical Foundation Elects New Officers

TITUSVILLE, FLA. (Oct. 18, 2023)—Jess Parrish Medical Foundation (JPMF), the philanthropic arm of Parrish Healthcare (PHC), announced the election of their board of directors for FY 2024.

Randall Coleman was reappointed to serve a second year as chair of the Foundation’s board of directors. Coleman, a CFP®, is a senior vice president at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management.

Dedicated to making a difference in the community, Coleman is past president of Titusville Sunrise Rotary; Brevard County Chapter of Certified Public Accounts; Brevard County Estate Planning Council; and Friends of the Children’s Advocacy Center of Brevard. In addition to serving as chair of JPMF, he currently serves on the board of Eastern Florida State College Foundation; Titusville YMCA; United Way of Brevard County; and Brevard County Civilian Military Relations Council.

Other officers and members of the executive board voted into office include: Melissa Lugo, chair elect; Philip Simpson, Ph.D., vice-chair; Kelley Broome, secretary; Josh Norris, treasurer; Rachel Terry, immediate past chair; and George Mikitarian, ex-officio and PHC president/CEO.

Members elected to serve on the executive committee are: Christopher Broome, Esq; Santiago Bulnes; Jessie Kirk; Jason Snodgrass; and Barbara Terhune.

Directors elected to the board include: Jerry Allender, Esq; Winnie Brewer; William Chivers; Herman Cole; Mary Coleman; Britt Diaz; David D. Ferguson; Terry Lee; Howard Rinker, DDS; Joe Rodriguez; Turmy Sieveking; Jennifer Trastelis; and William Terry.

Emeritus members include Dorothy Hudson; Richard Boggs and J.J. Parrish III.

“As a member of the JPMF board for more than 18 years, I am honored to continue my service to the Foundation as Chairman of the Board. Each of the incredible community leaders I have the privilege to serve with bring a unique perspective to their role,” said Coleman. “Together, we will continue to forge initiatives that advance the mission, vision and values of Parrish Medical Center.”

Parrish Medical Center Awarded Triennial Re-Accreditation from The Joint Commission

TITUSVILLE, FL— (October 12, 2023) – Parrish Medical Center (PMC) received notification on Oct. 3, 2023, that it has again earned accreditation from The Joint Commission (TJC) by demonstrating continuous compliance with its performance standards. Every three years, TJC conducts a rigorous review of every facet of PMC’s operations. This is a voluntary survey that supports PMC’s commitment to continuous quality improvement. TJC’s Gold Seal is a symbol of quality that reflects a health care organization’s commitment to providing safe and quality patient care.

During the visit, a team of Joint Commission reviewers evaluated compliance with all TJC standards spanning all areas including emergency management, inpatient care, life-safety and the environment of care, infection prevention and control, leadership, medication management, rights and responsibilities of the individual, to name a few.

TJC’s standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. They are informed by scientific literature and expert consensus to help health care organizations measure, assess and improve performance. The surveyors also conducted onsite observations and interviews.

“As a healthcare accreditor, The Joint Commission works with healthcare organizations across care settings to inspire safer and higher quality of care that is more equitable and compassionate,” says Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, executive vice president of Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing officer, The Joint Commission. “Through collaborating on innovative solutions and evidence-based resources and tools, The Joint Commission helps drive improvement while maintaining accountability through our leading survey methods and standards. We commend Parrish Medical Center for its commitment to advance safety, quality, equity and compassion for all patients.”

“Our Care Partners are committed to the safe and healing care of all patients in our care and it is through that commitment that Parrish Medical Center has maintained this valued accreditation from The Joint Commission,” said Parrish Healthcare President/CEO George Mikitarian. “Parrish Medical Center prides itself on hardwiring The Joint Commission’s standards as well as other leading-practices into our standard operating procedures to assure the highest levels of patient safety and quality clinical practices,” added Mikitarian.

For more information, please visit The Joint Commission website (jointcommission.org).

Parrish Medical Center Board Votes No Taxes for 29th Straight Year

TITUSVILLE, FL (Sept. 27, 2023)—For the 29th straight year, no taxes will be assessed to support operations of the North Brevard County Hospital District d/b/a Parrish Medical Center (PMC). PMC’s board of directors voted unanimously during public hearings on Sept. 11 and 25 to establish the millage rate and budget for fiscal year 2023-2024.

PMC is an independent, public, not-for-profit hospital, and state law gives the North Brevard Hospital District (d/b/a Parrish Medical Center) the authority to set a tax rate to support hospital operations.

However, unlike most public hospitals, the PMC Board of Directors has for 29 years voted not to use tax dollars as a means of funding the hospital.

“PMC serves the community’s health through compassionate and exceptional care and is recognized as one of the nation’s finest healing environments,” said PMC Board Chairman Robert Jordan. “We are pleased to continue to take this position on behalf of the community we serve while also investing tens of millions of dollars back into North Brevard each year in charity care and services.”

“As long as the community continues to support PMC–PMC will be able to continue to support the community,” concluded Jordan.

Parrish Medical Group Welcomes Dr. Matthew Musto, DO, MS

Matthew Musto, DO, MS

TITUSVILLE, FLA. (September 13, 2023)—Parrish Healthcare and Parrish Medical Group are pleased to welcome Orthopedic Surgeon Matthew Musto, DO, MS, to the North Brevard community.

Dr. Musto, who will serve as director of total joint replacement, completed his orthopedic surgical fellowship training at the Minnesota Center for Orthopedics. He was the first surgeon to be accepted for the one-year Fellowship training program. Dr. Musto earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree with honors at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Spartanburg, South Carolina. He also holds a Master’s degree in Medical Science and a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of South Florida in Tampa.

Dr. Musto is an expert in direct anterior total hip replacement utilizing intra-operative computer navigation, robotic-assisted total knee replacement, shoulder reconstruction and replacement. He also specializes in total hip, total knee, and total shoulder revisions and treating peri-prosthetic infections.

A native Floridian, Dr. Musto grew up in Sebring, FL where he played baseball and volunteered at the local hospital and in the community. He now lives in Titusville with his wife and three children where he enjoys spending time outdoors and with his family.

Conveniently located at Parrish Healthcare Center in Port St. John and Parrish Healthcare Center at Titus Landing, Dr. Musto welcomes new patients and accepts most insurance plans. For an appointment at either location, please call 321-433-2247.

Patient Raves about Parrish Healthcare’s Robotic Assisted Surgery Program

Surgeon, Dr. John Zambos at the surgeon’s console

“My surgery and recovery were excellent. I had only a couple of days of minor discomfort. In fact, my entire experience was excellent. I can’t say enough about how well everyone treated me,” added Grove.

Grove was referred to Dr. John Zambos for his surgery. “Dr. Zambos told me I was a candidate for minimally invasive, robotic-assisted surgery, and I’m glad he did,” said Grove.

“Robotic-assisted surgery advantages translate into advantages for patients,” said Dr. Zambos. “When a surgeon can see better, and use even more delicately-designed smaller, finely-crafted instruments, it leads to better results. It greatly multiplies my ability, to see more clearly and work more closely, with greater exactness than ever before,” said Dr. Zambos.

PMC continues to grow the number of physicians and specialties using robotic assisted surgeries. The combination of a surgeon’s skill, the advanced training of the surgical team assisting the surgeon, and the precision of the robotic surgical system carries great benefits for patients. It is being used across a spectrum of minimally invasive surgical procedures at PMC including: gynecology, urology, cardiac and general surgery.

“We continue to be proud of the expanded and enhanced capabilities of our surgeons and surgical care teams,” said Parrish Healthcare President/CEO George Mikitarian. “Our surgical teams have more options to improve patient outcomes and patient experiences. Robotic-assisted surgery is an example of how technology enhances our services.” The surgeon is 100% in control of the robotic-assisted da Vinci® System, which translates hand movements into smaller, more precise movements of tiny instruments inside the patient’s body. The system provides surgeons a highly magnified view, virtually extending their eyes and hands into the patient.

“Enhancing our capabilities through technological advancements is possible because of the commitment of our board of directors; our leadership teams; donors to our Foundation; our community for their trust; our surgical teams who embrace technology and all the advanced training required to bring it to life; as well as the focus of every care partner involved to furthering our mission, vision and values,” added Mikitarian.

Information about robotic-assisted surgery at Parrish Healthcare is available at https://www.parrishhealthcare.com/our-services/roboticsurgery/.

Parrish Healthcare Announces Community Support Group Schedule for September

Parrish Healthcare’s Mom’s Support Group
A group for mothers with babies ages birth to six months. During this time, moms will be able to discuss topics such as infant feeding, sleeping, milestones, car seats, play, development, post-partum care, birth control, post-partum depression, dietary needs and much more. Space is limited.

Parrish Healthcare’s Fearless Café
A collaboration with St. Francis Reflections Life Stages Care, this group shares a casual discussion about advanced directives, power of attorney, wills, living wills and all of the often, scary conversations about death and dying. Refreshments will be served.

Parrish Healthcare’s Diabetes Support Group
This support group is for anyone age 18 and older with diabetes. Join us for tips to live better with this disease.

Parrish Healthcare’s A.W.A.K.E Sleep Support
This group is dedicated to exchanging information and increasing awareness of sleep, sleeping disorders, and related health concerns. Everyone with an interest in sleep and health is encouraged to attend.

Parrish Healthcare’s Caring for Caregivers Support Group
Care giving is a rewarding, yet demanding labor of love. Join us to learn how to care for yourself while you care for your loved one.

Parrish Healthcare’s Stroke and Heart Survivors Support Group
If you’ve experienced a diagnosis or event, or are caring for someone living with heart disease or stroke, our community is here to support you.

Early Steps Community Play Date
A special play date for children five and under and their parent(s)/guardian(s).

Parrish Healthcare’s Cancer and Survivor Support Group
This group is for cancer patients, cancer survivors and anyone touched by the disease. Enjoy refreshments and talk with others sharing similar situations and experiences.

Tools to Quit Smoking Now
We know quitting tobacco isn’t easy but finding help should be. Parrish Healthcare has partnered with Tobacco Free Florida to offer this free class which equips those to use tobacco with tools and services to quit.

For more information about available classes, support groups and events, visit parrishhealthcare.com/events.

Parrish Healthcare Announces Community Support Group Schedule for August

Parrish Healthcare Mom’s Support Group

Parrish Healthcare’s Fearless Café

Parrish Healthcare Diabetes Support Group

Parrish Healthcare A.W.A.K.E Sleep Support

Parrish Healthcare’s Caring for Caregivers Support Group

Parrish Healthcare Stroke and Heart Survivors Support Group

Early Steps Community Play Date

Parrish Healthcare Cancer and Survivor Support Group

Tools to Quit Smoking Now

For more information about available classes, support groups and events, visit parrishhealthcare.com/events.

Parrish Medical Center’s Oncology Program Nationally Accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons Continuous recognition for cancer care excellence since 1990

To earn voluntary CoC accreditation, a quality program of the American College of Surgeons (ACS), an oncology program must meet 34 CoC quality care standards, be evaluated every three years through a survey process, and maintain levels of excellence in the delivery of comprehensive patient-centered care. As a CoC-accredited program, PMC takes a multidisciplinary approach to treating cancer that includes consultation among surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists, diagnostic radiologists, pathologists, and other oncology specialists.

“The CoC Accreditation Program provides the framework for PMC to continuously improve its quality of patient care through various programs that focus on the full spectrum of cancer care, including prevention, early diagnosis, cancer staging, treatment, rehabilitation, life-long follow-up for recurrent disease, and end-of-life care,” said Alex Gutierrez, manager of oncology and infusion programs.

The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 1.9 million cases of cancer will be diagnosed in 2023. When patients receive care from PMC’s CoC accredited program, they have access to the Mayo Clinic Care Network, information on clinical trials and new treatments, genetic counseling, and patient-centered services including psycho-social support, a patient navigation process, and a survivorship care plan that documents the care each patient receives and seeks to improve cancer survivors’ quality of life. Like all CoC-accredited programs, PMC maintains a cancer registry and contributes data to the National Cancer Data Base (NCDB), a joint program of the CoC and American Cancer Society. Data on all types of cancer are tracked and analyzed through the NCDB and used to explore trends in cancer care. CoC-accredited programs, in turn, have access to information derived from this type of data analysis, which is used to create national, regional, and state benchmark reports. These reports help CoC programs with their quality improvement efforts.

The CoC provides the public with information on the resources, services, and cancer treatment experience for each CoC-accredited cancer program through the CoC Hospital Locator at https://www.facs.org/search/cancer-programs. For more information about PMC’s Oncology Program, visit parrishhealthcare.com/cancer, or call the cancer care patient navigator at 321-268-6111, ext. 3544.

Parrish Healthcare is Pleased to Announce Preparticipation Sports Physicals for Young Athletes for 2023/2024 School Year

The first event will be held Saturday, July 22, 8am-noon at Parrish Healthcare Center at Titus Landing, 250 Harrison St., Floor 1, Titusville.

A second event will be held Saturday, August 5, 8am-noon at Parrish Healthcare Center in Port St. John, 5005 Port St. John Pkwy., Ste. 2100, Port St. John.

Dr. Anthony Allotta and Dr. Bryan Parry, assisted by athletic trainers, will provide the physical exams. “This as an opportunity to ensure our student athletes are physically able to compete,” said Dr. Allotta, who is fellowship trained in sports medicine. “If a student has a physical condition that would prevent or prohibit their participation in sports, we can identify that early on.”

No appointment is necessary. The cost is $10 and will be donated to Jess Parrish Medical Foundation. A parent or guardian must accompany the athletes.

For additional information call: 321-433-2247, ext. 8225

Dr. Anthony Allotta with student athlete

Dr. Bryan Parry with student athlete

Parrish Healthcare is Brevard County’s first hospital to provide atrial fibrillation patients with same-day ablations

Ajit Janardhan, MD

TITUSVILLE, FLA. (July 5, 2023)— Parrish Healthcare is Brevard County’s first hospital to provide atrial fibrillation (AFib or AF) patients with same-day ablations, a procedure that returns irregular—and dangerous—heart rhythms to normal.

“Same-day ablations enable patients to be treated as outpatients. This reduces costs and allows patients to quickly receive relief and return home, which is where they want to be,” said Ajit Janardhan, MD. “Our Parrish team studied and reviewed the advantages of same-day ablation and concluded that it’s a procedure with significant benefits for patients seeking freedom from AFib. We’re proud to be the first hospital in Brevard to offer this service.”

AFib is a rapid heartbeat that occurs when the upper part of the heart, the atria, is beating rapidly: in extreme cases, up to 600 beats per minute, while the lower part of the heart (ventricles) beat normally. AFib’s irregular heartbeat causes blood to pool in the heart and increases the risk of blood clots and strokes.

“AFib can affect people of any age, but the highest percentage is among people over age 65,” said Dr. Janardhan. “There are perhaps 15,000 Brevard residents in the over-65 age group who at present have AFib, and that number is constantly changing.”

A cardiac ablation procedure “uses heat or cold energy to create tiny scars in the heart to block irregular electrical signals and restore a typical heartbeat. The procedure is used to correct heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias),” says the Mayo Clinic. In same-day ablation, a surgeon uses catheters—thin, flexible tubes—inserted into the heart via veins or arteries, to apply the heat or cold that stops the errant electrical signals causing AFib.

The surgeon conducts the procedure using a video monitor. Same-day ablation usually takes three to four hours to perform, including the time needed to prepare for the procedure and to remove the catheters from the body. Dr. Janardhan is Board Certified in Cardiovascular Disease and Cardiac Electrophysiology. He performs same-day ablations in Parrish Medical Center’s Cardiac Catheterization Lab.

Not all AFib patients are eligible for same-day ablation; some may need more extensive surgical procedures. A physician can best determine the right treatment. Ask your physician if same-day ablation is right for you. To find a physician visit parrishhealthcare.com/providers.

Parrish Healthcare to discontinue its indoor pool operations effective Sept. 30, 2023

The challenges include (1) an aging pool infrastructure and the need to make major repairs in order to remain in compliance with state regulations; (2) increasing pool maintenance expenses; and (3) balancing affordability and user experience. Annually, the cost to operate the indoor, heated pool and therapy pool, is roughly $168,000. Annual revenue received from pool fees paid by wellness center members and swim groups that lease pool time is approximately $56,232. The difference means we are operating at an annual loss of $111,768. Closing the gap and bringing the operation to breakeven would require both a drastic increase in pool use/membership fees as well as a drastic increase in the number of pool users. This would negatively impact the user experience and affordability. And, ultimately would further negatively impact operations.

Additionally, recent inspections by the Department of Health resulted in several recommendations to complete major repairs to the aging pool infrastructure in order to remain in compliance with state regulations and sustain a safe swimming environment. The needed repairs will cost more than $500,000; will require the pool to be closed for many months; and will further negatively impact operations as there will be zero revenue received during those months. Given these harsh operational realities and the current economic climate, continuing to absorb the loss associated with pool operations and investing another half a million into just the pool infrastructure is not possible. As such, pool operations, including therapy pool operations, will be closed effective Sept. 30, 2023.

“We are proud to have been able to serve as the community’s only indoor swimming option for these past 20 years and the decision to close pool operations was not made lightly,” said Parrish Healthcare spokesperson Natalie Sellers. “We understand that this news will not be welcomed and beg the community’s understanding at having had to make this very difficult decision,” added Sellers.

As has been widely report in the news, hospitals everywhere are cutting expenses up to and including making staff reductions, in the face of operating losses. “Our priority is to preserve jobs and identify other means of optimizing our operations and reducing expenses,” said Sellers.

Current pool patrons, will have access to the pool until September 30, 2023 and their pool fees will be waived from July 1, 2023 to September 30, 2023.

Parrish Healthcare Recognized for exceeding the Healthy People 2030 Maternal and Child Health goal of reducing C-section births

TITUSVILLE, FLA. (June 28, 2023)—Improving safety and lowering cost by reducing the number of Caesarean sections (C-section) for first-time mothers with low risk of birth complications has earned Parrish Healthcare recognition from the state’s two top health care agencies.

Pictured L-R: Joseph A. Ladapo, MD, PhD, surgeon general of Florida; Melinda Hodges, RN, Manager, Women's Services; Cara Starkey, APRN, Nurse Midwife and Jason Weida, AHCA secretary

Parrish was recognized by the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) and Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) for achieving the federal Healthy People 2030 Maternal and Child Health goal of reducing C-sections for low-risk, first-time mothers. Melinda Hodges, RN, Manager, Women’s Services and Cara Starkey, APRN, Nurse Midwife, accepted the award presented by Joseph A. Ladapo, MD, PhD, surgeon general of Florida, and Jason Weida, AHCA secretary, Thursday, June 22, at the Florida Hospital Association Quality Conference.

“Over time, C-sections have become the most common surgery performed in the U.S., and federal and state regulatory and quality organizations have determined that a significant percentage of them aren’t needed,” said George Mikitarian, Parrish Healthcare president and CEO.

In some cases, C-sections are vital tools to protect the life and health of mothers and babies. However, unnecessary C-sections drive up costs and put women at risk for surgically-related complications. In 2021, the last year for which complete data is available, there were more than 1.1 million C-sections performed in the U.S., 32.1% of all deliveries, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Florida’s 2021 figure was 35.8% C-section rate, according to the CDC.

The Healthy People 2030 Maternal and Child Health program seeks to reduce the C-section rate to 23.6% of births among low-risk, first-time mothers. Parrish’s C-section rate was 17%, more than six points below the national goal.

While explaining the value of C-sections, the Healthy People 2030 website also describes the reasons for the focus on reducing C-section births, saying that C-sections can prevent injury and death in women who are at higher risk of complicated deliveries or have unexpected complications. C-sections can also prevent injury and death in their newborns. But C-sections are linked to increased risk of infections and blood clots, and many women who aren’t at higher risk for delivery complications get unnecessary C-sections. Various evidence-based strategies aimed at hospitals and health care providers can help reduce C-sections in low-risk women.

“Parrish’s best-practice, evidence-based approach to C-section deliveries has resulted in better care for women and their babies,” Mikitarian said.

“Surgery is a necessary and important thing, but in the case of C-sections, not all surgeries are necessary,” he said. “This award is a testimony to the work of Parrish’s Care Partners and our mission of Healing Experiences for Everyone All the Time®.”

Parrish Healthcare Announces Community Support Group Schedule for July

TITUSVILLE, FL (JUN 26, 2023) — Parrish Healthcare offers a variety of support groups as a free service to the community. The July 2023 schedule is as follows:

Parrish Healthcare Mom’s Support Group
A group for mothers with babies ages birth to six months. During this time, moms will be able to discuss topics such as infant feeding, sleeping, milestones, car seats, play, development, post-partum care, birth control, post-partum depression, dietary needs and much more. Space is limited.

• When: Mon., Jul. 3,10,17,24; 10-11 a.m.
• Where: The Children’s Center, 5650 S. Washington Ave., Titusville
• For additional information and to register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/Moms

Parrish Healthcare’s Fearless Café
A collaboration with St. Francis Reflections Life Stages Care, this group shares a casual discussion about advanced directives, power of attorney, wills, living wills and all of the often, scary conversations about death and dying.

• When: Wed., Jul. 5; 10-11 a.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/FearlessCafe

Parrish Healthcare Diabetes Support Group
This support group is for anyone age 18 and older with diabetes. Join us for tips to live better with this disease.

• When: Mon., Jul. 10; 3-4:30 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Peggy McLaughlin, BSN, RN, CDCES
• For additional information, please contact Peggy McLaughlin at 321-268-6699.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/DiabetesSupport

Parrish Healthcare A.W.A.K.E Sleep Support
This group is dedicated to exchanging information and increasing awareness of sleep, sleeping disorders, and related health concerns. Everyone with an interest in sleep and health is encouraged to attend.

• When: Mon., Jul. 10; 6-8 p.m.
• Where: Manatee Conference Room, 5005 Port St. John Pkwy., Port St. John
• Facilitated by Michele Roberge, RT(R), RPSGT
• For additional information, please contact Michele Roberge at 321-268-6408.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/SleepSupport

Parrish Healthcare’s Caring for Caregivers Support Group
Care giving is a rewarding, yet demanding labor of love. Join us to learn how to care for yourself while you care for your loved one.

• When: Thurs., Jul. 13, 27; 9:30-11:30 a.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/CaregiverSupport

Parrish Healthcare Stroke and Heart Survivors Support Group
If you’ve experienced a diagnosis or event, or are caring for someone living with heart disease or stroke, our community is here to support you.

• When: Tues., Jul. 18; 2-4 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/StrokeandHeartSupport

Early Steps Community Play Date
A special play date for children five and under and their parent(s)/guardian(s).

• When: Wed., Jul. 19; 9-10:30 a.m.
• Where: The Children’s Center, 5650 S. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Mary Cancel, Family Resource Specialist
• For additional information visit parrishhealthcare.com/EarlySteps

Parrish Healthcare Cancer and Survivor Support Group
This group is for cancer patients, cancer survivors and anyone touched by the disease. Enjoy refreshments and talk with others sharing similar situations and experiences.

• When: Wed., Jul. 19; 4-5:30 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Shannon Luker, RN, BSN, OCN, CBCN
• For additional information, please contact Shannon Luker at 321-268-6111, ext. 3544.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/CancerSupport

Tools to Quit Smoking Now
We know quitting tobacco isn’t easy but finding help should be. Parrish Healthcare has partnered with Tobacco Free Florida to offer this free class which equips those to use tobacco with tools and services to quit.

• When: Tues., Jul. 25; 5:30-7:30 p.m.
• Where: Parrish Medical Center, 951 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• For more information and to register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/quitsmoking

Parrish Healthcare Announces Community Support Group Schedule for June

Parrish Healthcare Mom’s Support Group
A group for mothers with babies ages birth to six months. During this time, moms will be able to discuss topics such as infant feeding, sleeping, milestones, car seats, play, development, post-partum care, birth control, post-partum depression, dietary needs and much more. Space is limited.

Parrish Healthcare’s Fearless Café
A collaboration with St. Francis Reflections Life Stages Care, this group shares a casual discussion about advanced directives, power of attorney, wills, living wills and all of the often, scary conversations about death and dying.

Parrish Healthcare Diabetes Support Group
This support group is for anyone age 18 and older with diabetes. Join us for tips to live better with this disease.

Parrish Healthcare A.W.A.K.E Sleep Support
This group is dedicated to exchanging information and increasing awareness of sleep, sleeping disorders, and related health concerns. Everyone with an interest in sleep and health is encouraged to attend.

Parrish Healthcare’s Caring for Caregivers Support Group
Care giving is a rewarding, yet demanding labor of love. Join us to learn how to care for yourself while you care for your loved one.

Parrish Healthcare Stroke and Heart Survivors Support Group
If you’ve experienced a diagnosis or event, or are caring for someone living with heart disease or stroke, our community is here to support you.

Early Steps Community Play Date
A special play date for children five and under and their parent(s)/guardian(s).

Parrish Healthcare Cancer and Survivor Support Group
This group is for cancer patients, cancer survivors and anyone touched by the disease. Enjoy refreshments and talk with others sharing similar situations and experiences.

Tools to Quit Smoking Now
We know quitting tobacco isn’t easy but finding help should be. Parrish Healthcare has partnered with Tobacco Free Florida to offer this free class which equips those to use tobacco with tools and services to quit.

For more information about available classes, support groups and events, visit parrishhealthcare.com/events.

Parrish Early Care & Education Program Celebrates VPK Class of 2023

Parrish Early Care and Education graduates

The ceremony took place at First United Methodist Church in Titusville and hosted 19 VPK graduates along with their families and other guests. “These children are the future of our community” said Kathy Simonsen, special programs coordinator. They are the next generation of thinkers, builders, teachers and healers. It is always an emotional day to see them progress on their journey to Kindergarten.”

The ceremony included the traditional parade of graduates, a special selection of songs performed by the class of 2023 and ended on the high note of the official presentation of diplomas. For more information on services provided by The Children’s Center please visit their website or call 321-264-0855.

Jess Parrish Medical Foundation Awards Scholarships for Study in Healthcare and Medicine

This year’s scholarship winners include, from Astronaut High School, Ashlyn Foster, Allie Glass, Ryan Gordon, Emily Hurlburt, Hailey Kon, Sheyenne Lewis, Grant Isaac Robinson, and Kalyn Rubio; Cocoa High School awardee Jamisen Blevins; from Edgewater Jr./Sr. High School, Sadhna Seth; Merritt Island High School recipient Savannah Auriemma; Tessa Mitzlaff and Hannah Kirby from Space Coast Jr./Sr. High School; and Titusville High School awardees Rebekah Feaster and Jorianys Rodriguez-Rivera.

College students awarded scholarships include, Alexis Mills and Cindy Sluka from Daytona State College; Eastern Florida State College awardee Natalie Perin; Arun Jagarlamudi, Nova Southeastern University; Southeastern University recipient Sydney Van Horn; Noah Langelier and Julia Simonsen from the University of Central Florida; and University of Miami awardee Sarah Sluka.

Scholarship committee chair Barbara Terhune led the committee through the process of evaluating applicants in the areas of academic performance, awards and honors, extracurricular activities, leadership, community service and work experience, recommendation letters, application essay and Parrish Healthcare/JPMF affiliation.

“This year’s scholarship recipients were again exceptional and we look to them to lead the next generation in shaping the future of healthcare,” said Randy Coleman, JPMF board chair. “The Foundation is honored to support the future education endeavors of such accomplished and well-deserving students. Our congratulations to all the awardees as they take the next step forward in their academic careers.”

Committee members include Santi Bulnes; Deborah Cox; Dot Hudson; Terry Lee; Josh Norris; Howard Rinker, DDS; Natalie Sellers; Philip Simpson, PhD; and Barbara Terhune, committee chair.

JPMF is investing in the future by awarding medical scholarships to residents in North Brevard County who are pursuing careers that one day will provide healing to our community. To learn more about JPMF/PHC scholarships, visit www.parrishmedfoundation.com/scholarships.

Jess Parrish Medical Foundation Receives Funding for Medical Scholarships

TITUSVILLE, FLA, May 8, 2023—Jess Parrish Medical Foundation received $25,000 in funding from Brevard Indo-American Medical and Dental Association (BIMDA) during their annual Medical Expo and Dinner Awards on Saturday, April 29 at the Hilton Rialto. Funds will be used to support the JPMF Medical Scholarship program, which provide scholarships to students pursuing a healthcare career related to human health. Since 1990, the scholarship program has awarded over $500,000 to more than 450 outstanding applicants.

Glad Kurian, BIMDA Founder and Honorary Executive Director, stated “We are glad to support the future of healthcare with scholarships and wish all the deserving past and future recipients a bright future in their educational and career goals.”

This gift will create the BIMDA scholarship in honor of Dr. Ashok C. Shah and Glad Kurian to provide two scholarships annually to qualifying candidates until 2034.

“BIMDA has been an outstanding partner, and we are incredibly grateful for their continued generosity” said Randy Coleman, Chairman of the JPMF Board of Directors. “They have made a lasting impact on the community, the students and their education. We are honored to have been chosen as an award recipient.”

For more information about the Jess Parrish Medical Foundation or the scholarship program, please visit parrishmedfoundation.com or contact the Foundation at 321-269-4066.

Parrish Healthcare Announces Community Support Group Schedule for May

Parrish Healthcare Mom’s Support Group
A group for mothers with babies ages birth to six months. During this time, moms will be able to discuss topics such as infant feeding, sleeping, milestones, car seats, play, development, post-partum care, birth control, post-partum depression, dietary needs and much more. Space is limited.

Parrish Healthcare’s Fearless Café
A collaboration with St. Francis Reflections Life Stages Care, this group shares a casual discussion about advanced directives, power of attorney, wills, living wills and all of the often, scary conversations about death and dying.

Parrish Healthcare Diabetes Support Group
This support group is for anyone age 18 and older with diabetes. Join us for tips to live better with this disease.

Parrish Healthcare A.W.A.K.E Sleep Support
This group is dedicated to exchanging information and increasing awareness of sleep, sleeping disorders, and related health concerns. Everyone with an interest in sleep and health is encouraged to attend.

Parrish Healthcare’s Caring for Caregivers Support Group Care giving is a rewarding, yet demanding labor of love. Join us to learn how to care for yourself while you care for your loved one.

Parrish Healthcare Stroke and Heart Survivors Support Group
If you’ve experienced a diagnosis or event, or are caring for someone living with heart disease or stroke, our community is here to support you.

Early Steps Community Play Date
A special play date for children five and under and their parent(s)/guardian(s).

Parrish Healthcare Cancer and Survivor Support Group
This group is for cancer patients, cancer survivors and anyone touched by the disease. Enjoy refreshments and talk with others sharing similar situations and experiences.

Tools to Quit Smoking Now
We know quitting tobacco isn’t easy but finding help should be. Parrish Healthcare has partnered with Tobacco Free Florida to offer this free class which equips those to use tobacco with tools and services to quit.

For more information about available classes, support groups and events, visit parrishhealthcare.com/events.

Jess Parrish Medical Foundation Receives Major Gift for Medical Scholarship Endowment

TITUSVILLE, FLA. April 19, 2023—Jess Parrish Medical Foundation (JPMF) received $100,000 in funding from the Parrish Medical Center (PMC) Auxiliary, LLC in support of the JPMF scholarship program. This gift will establish an endowment to assist in funding scholarships and provide aid to those pursuing careers in the medical field that will one day provide healing care to our community.

The Jess Parrish Medical Foundation scholarship program was created in 1990 and, in partnership with the PMC Auxiliary, LLC, has awarded more than $500,000 to over 450 outstanding recipients. Medical scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors and undergraduate students who reside in the Parrish Medical Center service area and are pursuing a degree in the human health/medical field. Awards can be applied to tuition, books, supplies or other expenses related to the student’s educational pursuit.

“On behalf of the Foundation, I cannot express our gratitude to the PMC Auxiliary Board of Directors and members enough for this decision” said Randy Coleman, Chairman of the JPMF Board of Directors. “This gift will be transformational for the Scholarship program and ensures the next generation of Care Partners in North Brevard can continue to have the support they need. It also continues the storied legacy of the Auxiliary and the monumental impact they have on our community.”

The Jess Parrish Medical Foundation, in collaboration with PMC Auxiliary, LLC, is investing in the future of our area by awarding medical scholarships to residents in North Brevard County who distinguish themselves through passionate dedication to their communities and a pursuit of studies in the fields of medicine or healthcare.

For more information about the Jess Parrish Medical Foundation or the scholarship program, please visit parrishmedfoundation.com or contact the Foundation at 321-269-4066.

The Children’s Center Welcomes Advanced Care Partners Pediatric Prescribed Extended Care Center Now Open in Titusville, Florida

“Our Titusville PPEC center is equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment and staffed with highly trained and compassionate healthcare professionals,” said Cristol Therien-Douglas, PPEC Administrator of Advanced Care Partners. “We specialize in providing quality care for children with medical needs that are 100% covered by Medicaid.” The Titusville PPEC provides service 12-hours per day, for as many as six days per week with a qualifying diagnosis, such as, gastronomy tubes, feeding tubes, central lines, trach tubes, and many more.

PPEC services include skilled nursing care; physical, occupational, and speech therapy; educational programs; nutritional support and more. We provide a handicap-accessible playground with a new wheelchair swing to ensure every child enjoys their time at our PPEC.

“We are excited to welcome Advanced Care Partners to The Children’s Center,” said Vaneesha Greco, manager of The Children’s Center. “Our mission is to be a one-stop resource for childhood health and development services, and the addition of Advanced Care Partners’ PPEC is a perfect complement to our programs and services,” added Greco.

The Titusville PPEC center is now accepting new patients. To schedule a tour or learn more about our services, please visit www.advancedcarepartners.com/for-ppec-daycare/ or www.parrishhealthcare.com/the-childrens-center.

Parrish Healthcare Offers Free Diabetes Education Class April 24

Decoding Diabetes is led by Parrish Healthcare’s Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. This fun, interactive, and instructional class designed for people age 18 and older with diabetes and will include information on:

• Nutrition and meal planning
• Physical wellness
• Preventing complications
• Much more!

For additional information, please call at 321-268-6699.

Jess Parrish Medical Foundation Golf Classic Continues to Draw Sell-Out Crowd and Exceed Fundraising Goal

The law firm of Zumpano Patricios presented the 18-hole scramble for the ninth consecutive year. JPMF hosted another sell-out crowd at this year’s tournament and exceeded its fundraising goal of $80,000, raising more than $88,000 to benefit The Children’s Center (TCC), a service of Parrish Healthcare, and one-stop childhood development resource center. TCC provides a safe and healing environment for special needs and typically developing children to learn and grow, along with an array of health, education and human services under one roof.

The annual golf tournament lives on as a tribute to Fran Gerrett’s longtime dedication to our community and his favorite charity, The Children’s Center. Fran, a former Parrish Medical Center Materials Management Director, was famous for saying, “It’s all about the kids!”

“Fran was a kind and humble man who loved helping others, especially children. The Foundation’s tournament honoring my father means as much to me and my family as it does to those it benefits,” said Amy Craddock, event co-chair. “My family would like to extend our thanks to the sponsors, committee, volunteers, course partners and everyone that played a role in the extraordinary success of the event. We are honored to be able to preserve our father’s legacy and continue to support the children and families in need of the vital services provided by The Children’s Center.”

Event partners included Presenting sponsor Zumpano Patricios. Platinum-level sponsor HHS; and Gold-level sponsors were MedFast Urgent Care Centers; RUSH Construction, Inc.; and RW Services, LLC. Silver-level sponsors included Injury Centers of Brevard; MIS-Medical Imaging Solutions; Regions Bank; and Wound Care Advantage. Bronze-level sponsors were Anderson Financial Partners, Inc.; The Broome Law Firm/Chris & Kelley Broome; Certified Plumbing of Brevard, Inc.; Cintas Corporation; Coastal Health Systems of Brevard; Randy and Mary Coleman; CPS; CSI Leasing, Inc.; Green Air Environmental of Central Florida; Howard W. Rinker, D.D.S.; Bill and Rachel Terry; UBS Financial Services / Susan Morse and Daniel Levy; and The Watauga Company. Supporting-level sponsors included Advanced Care Partners PPEC; Claudine Brandon / Golf 1 Inc.; Carmona Pathology Associates, P.A.; Herman and Joyce Cole; Florida Health Care Plans; Mary Haddad-Mauzy / Coldwell Banker Coast Realty; The Mikitarian Family; nexAir, LLC; Novatech; Ron Norris Buick, GMC, Honda, Ford; Parrish Home Health – LHC Group, Inc.; The Rodriguez Family – McDonald’s; Greg and Kathy Sparkman & Allen and Diane Taylor Families; Christine Sylvester; Gabriel Werder, MD; and WFTV – WRDQ. Par-Tee-level sponsors were CarePatrol of Melbourne; Celebrate RE/MAX Aerospace; MEC General Contractors; RW Services, LLC; Space Coast Credit Union; St. Francis Reflections Lifestage Care; and System Tech Services, Inc. Beverage sponsor was Cara Fisher – State Farm Insurance; Breakfast sponsor was Firehouse Subs at Titus Landing; and Cart sponsor was Florida Power and Light Company. In-kind sponsors included Brevard County Sheriff’s Office; Brevard Zoo; The Cheesecake Factory – Winter Park; The Children’s Center Staff and Families; Color Bar; Costco #1450; Amy Craddock; Duran Golf Club; Durango’s Steakhouse; el Leoncito Cuban & Mexican Restaurant; Envinity; Grainger; Vaneesha Greco; The Great Outdoors Golf Club; Green Air Environmental of Central Florida; Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex; La Cita Country Club; Chris and Lisa McAlpine; Moon Golf; Kathy Myer; Ron Norris Buick, GMC, Honda, Ford; Kenneth O’Dea; Orlando Solar Bears Hockey; Publix Supermarkets; Regions Bank; Residence Inn Marriott – Cape Canaveral Cocoa Beach; The Resort on Cocoa Beach; Jeff Riley; Christie Rimsky; River Lanes Family Entertainment Center; Sego’s Home Medical Equipment; Space Coast Credit Union; Greg and Kathy Sparkman; Leigh Spradling; Systems Tech Services, Inc.; Total Wine and More, Viera; Turtle Creek Golf Club; Valentino’s New York Style Pizza & Restaurant; Valiant Air Command – Warbird Air Museum; and The Weaver Family. Other generous sponsors were recognized at the tournament.

“We are overjoyed by the tremendous support the tournament continues to receive, and are thrilled to have so many organizations and community partners join us to make a difference in the vital work of The Children’s Center,” said Leigh Spradling, tournament co-chair.

Taking home top honors were the men’s division first-place teams of Matt Belle, Mahindra Lutchman, Matias Trevino and Brandon Wells at Indian River Preserve Golf Club and Neil Hunt, Brian Hurd, Steve Hurd and Josh Norris at The Great Outdoors. The mixed division first-place teams included players Amanda Cole, Chris Cole, Herman Cole and Joyce Cole at Indian River Preserve and Lynne Anderson, Harold Gero, John Gero and Susan Jensen at The Great Outdoors. The foursome of Mary Lou Angarano, Roz Angarano, Patty Labaz and Patricia McCarrick, took top women’s division honors at Indian River Preserve and Amy Craddock, Kathy Myer, Jeanne O’Bryan and Toni Thigpin at The Great Outdoors. Special recognition for the team having the most fun on their course went to Neil Harber, Kelli Neros, Cristol Therien-Douglas and Tiffany Welke at The Great Outdoors.

Amy Craddock and Leigh Spradling, event co-chairs, led the tournament planning committee that included members Santi Bulnes, Kathy Myer, Greg Sparkman, Jeff Riley, Kathy Simonsen, Kristina Weaver and Suzanne Yarbrough.

Next year’s tournament is scheduled for April 5, 2024. For more information about Jess Parrish Medical Foundation, or to secure your 2024 event partnership today, contact Jess Parrish Medical Foundation at (321) 269-4066 or visit www.parrishmedfoundation.com/golf.

Parrish Healthcare Welcomes Board-Certified Family Medicine Physician Paul Bucolo, MD

Paul Bucolo, MD

Dr. Bucolo is an award-winning physician who specializes in the prevention and management of acute and chronic health conditions for men and women of all ages. He is a current member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and is passionate about improving health inequities. He has served as a volunteer, providing care to the medically-underserved for more than eight years.

After graduating with honors from the University of Florida, Dr. Bucolo received his medical degree from the University of Science Arts and Technology in Olveston, Montserrat, earning the top spot as valedictorian of his class. He went on to complete a family medicine residency at the University of Arkansas for the Medical Sciences in Fayetteville, AR. During his residency, Dr. Bucolo was honored as Chief Resident. A highly experienced clinician with more than 15 years of medical experience, Dr. Bucolo also holds a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Nebraska in Omaha, NE.

Dr. Bucolo joins the primary care practices of Parrish Medical Group, conveniently located at Parrish Healthcare Center (at Titus Landing), 250 Harrison Street, Titusville, FL 32780, Dr. Bucolo welcomes new patients. Most insurances accepted. For more information visit parrishhealthcare.com/bucolo.

Parrish Healthcare Announces Community Support Group Schedule for April

Parrish Healthcare Mom’s Support Group
A group for mothers with babies ages birth to six months. During this time, moms will be able to discuss topics such as infant feeding, sleeping, milestones, car seats, play, development, post-partum care, birth control, post-partum depression, dietary needs and much more. Space is limited.

• When: Mon., Apr. 3, 10, 17, 24; 10-11 a.m.
• Where: The Children’s Center, 5650 S. Washington Ave., Titusville
• For additional information and to register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/Moms

• When: Wed., Apr. 5; 10-11 a.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/FearlessCafe

• When: Mon., Apr. 10; 3-4:30 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Peggy McLaughlin, BSN, RN, CDCES
• For additional information, please contact Peggy McLaughlin at 321-268-6699.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/DiabetesSupport

• When: Mon., Apr. 10; 6-8 p.m.
• Where: Manatee Conference Room, 5005 Port St. John Pkwy., Port St. John
• Facilitated by Michele Roberge, RT(R), RPSGT
• For additional information, please contact Michele Roberge at 321-268-6408.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/SleepSupport

• When: Thurs., Apr. 13, 27; 9:30-11:30 a.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/CaregiverSupport

• When: Tues., Apr. 18; 2-4 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/StrokeandHeartSupport

• When: Wed., Apr. 19; 9-10:30 a.m.
• Where: The Children’s Center, 5650 S. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Mary Cancel, Family Resource Specialist
• For additional information visit parrishhealthcare.com/EarlySteps

• When: Wed., Apr. 19; 4-5:30 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Shannon Luker, RN, BSN, OCN, CBCN
• For additional information, please contact Shannon Luker at 321-268-6111, ext. 3544.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/CancerSupport

• When: Tues., Apr. 25; 5:30-7:30 p.m.
• Where: Parrish Medical Center, 951 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• For more information and to register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/quitsmoking

Parrish Healthcare Welcomes Board-Certified Interventional Pain Management Physician, Feguens Bataille, MD

Feguens Bataille, MD

Dr. Bataille is double board-certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and in Pain Management. He specializes in the care of patients with a broad spectrum of painful conditions including diseases of the spine, joints, and muscles. Dr. Bataille is an expert in the use of spine injections, radio-frequency ablation, spinal cord stimulation and Kyphoplasty to manage pain.

Upon earning his medical degree from the University of Pittsburgh in Pittsburg, PA, Dr. Bataille went on to complete his internship in Internal Medicine at The Christ Hospital in Cincinnati followed by residency in his Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation at Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh. In 2014, Dr. Bataille successfully completed a fellowship in Interventional Pain Management at the University of Cincinnati in Cincinnati, OH.

Dr. Bataille is fluent in English and Haitian Creole. He enjoys weight training, fishing and “makes-an-effort on the golf course.”

Dr. Bataille joins the practice of Parrish Medical Group Doctors Anthony Allotta, DO, Sports Medicine, David Schafer, MD, Orthopedic Surgery, and Jonathan Lubitz, DPM, Podiatry. The practice is conveniently located at Parrish Healthcare Center, 5005 Port St. John Parkway, Port St. John, FL 32927. Dr. Bataille welcomes new patients. For more information visit parrishhealthcare.com/bataille.

Parrish Health & Wellness to Offer Group Exercise Class

Certified personal trainers will lead the classes. During the circuit format, participants will complete a full body workout focused on improving strength, cardiovascular endurance and core stability. “Classes are perfect for all fitness levels as trainers will demonstrate modifications as necessary,” said Kellie Way, director of Parrish Health & Wellness.

Membership isn’t required. Drop in for $15 per class or save $60 when you register for the full program by March 20.

Space is limited. Call us at 321-268-6200, or stop in to reserve your spot today! Parrish Health & Wellness is located at 3065 Columbia Blvd., Titusville.

Parrish Healthcare proud presenting sponsor of the Smile from Within Event was held on Saturday

“Here, today, in an environment of joy and fellowship, Brevard Prevention Coalition, All Black and the Hassell Foundation are helping people learn things we all need to know, said Robert Jordan, chairman of the Parrish Medical center board of directors. Supporting events like Smile from Within is one more way we serve to extend the reach of our vision of Healing Families—Healing Communities®. “Parrish Healthcare is proud—and, indeed, grateful—to be the presenting sponsor of Smiles from Within,” added Jordan.

Children ages five to 15 participated in free football and cheer camps. Former National Football League players Marcus Maye, Bennet Jackson, DJ Montgomery, Willie Harvey, Sheldrick Redwine, and Shak Taylor joined TJ Hassell to share their experiences with aspiring young football players, while former NFL cheerleader Khamare Farrar led the cheer camp.

Parrish Healthcare Welcomes Board-Certified Urologist Beibei Oelrich, MD, PhD

TITUSVILLE, FLA. (March 10, 2023)— Parrish Healthcare and Parrish Medical Group are pleased to welcome Board-Certified Urologist, Beibei Oelrich, MD, PhD to the North Brevard community.

Dr. Oelrich is an internationally trained and award-winning urologist who has completed and published several research studies over the last 15 years. She is certified by the American Board of Urology and sees both male and female patients for the care of all urological conditions including incontinence, disorders of the prostate, kidney stones and erectile dysfunction. She has a special interest in urological cancers and is an expert in minimally invasive robotic surgeries.

After earning her medical degree from Humboldt University in Berlin, Germany, Dr. Oelrich went on to earn her PhD in Clinical Physiology. She then successfully completed two residencies in Urology; one at Charité University Hospital in Berlin and another at the University of Cincinnati in Ohio.

Before joining Parrish Medical Group, Dr. Oelrich practiced in Destin and Ft. Walton Beach, FL. She has also practiced in Southern California.

Dr. Oelrich is fluent in English, Mandarin and German. She enjoys scuba diving, hiking, biking, sailing and playing the piano.

Conveniently located at Parrish Healthcare Center (at Titus Landing), 250 Harrison Street, Titusville, FL 32780, Dr. Oelrich welcomes new patients to her practice. For more information visit parrishhealthcare.com/oelrich.

Parrish Healthcare Offers Free Diabetes Education Class March 27

Titusville, FL (March 8, 2023)—Parrish Healthcare is offering a free community education class on diabetes. Decoding Diabetes will take place on Monday, March 27, from 2:30 to 4:30 pm, at Parrish Medical Center’s Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Avenue, Titusville (just south of Parrish Medical Center’s main campus on the corner of Jess Parrish Court and US-1).

Decoding Diabetes is led by Parrish Healthcare’s Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. This fun, interactive, and instructional class designed for people age 18 and older with diabetes and will include information on:

• Nutrition and meal planning
• Physical wellness
• Preventing complications
• Much more!

The class is free but space is limited. Register today at parrishhealthcare.com/decodingdiabetes. For additional information, please call at 321-268-6699.

Parrish Healthcare Announces Community Support Group Schedule for March

Parrish Healthcare’s Fearless Café
A collaboration with St. Francis Reflections Life Stages Care, this group shares a casual discussion about advanced directives, power of attorney, wills, living wills and all of the often, scary conversations about death and dying.

• When: Wed., Mar. 1; 10-11 a.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/FearlessCafe

Parrish Healthcare Mom’s Support Group
A group for mothers with babies ages birth to six months. During this time, moms will be able to discuss topics such as infant feeding, sleeping, milestones, car seats, play, development, post-partum care, birth control, post-partum depression, dietary needs and much more. Space is limited.

• When: Mon., Mar. 6, 13, 20, 27; 10-11 a.m.
• Where: The Children’s Center, 5650 S. Washington Ave., Titusville
• For additional information and to register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/Moms

Parrish Healthcare’s Caring for Caregivers Support Group
Care giving is a rewarding, yet demanding labor of love. Join us to learn how to care for yourself while you care for your loved one.

• When: Thurs., Mar. 9, 23; 9:30-11:30 a.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/CaregiverSupport

Parrish Healthcare Diabetes Support Group
This support group is for anyone age 18 and older with diabetes. Join us for tips to live better with this disease.

• When: Mon., Mar. 13; 3-4:30 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Peggy McLaughlin, BSN, RN, CDCES
• For additional information, please contact Peggy McLaughlin at 321-268-6699.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/DiabetesSupport

Parrish Healthcare A.W.A.K.E Sleep Support
This group is dedicated to exchanging information and increasing awareness of sleep, sleeping disorders, and related health concerns. Everyone with an interest in sleep and health is encouraged to attend.

• When: Mon., Mar. 13; 6-8 p.m.
• Where: Manatee Conference Room, 5005 Port St. John Pkwy., Port St. John
• Facilitated by Michele Roberge, RT(R), RPSGT
• For additional information, please contact Michele Roberge at 321-268-6408.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/SleepSupport

Early Steps Community Play Date
A special play date for children five and under and their parent(s)/guardian(s).

• When: Wed., Mar. 15; 9-10:30 a.m.
• Where: The Children’s Center, 5650 S. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Mary Cancel, Family Resource Specialist
• For additional information visit parrishhealthcare.com/EarlySteps

Parrish Healthcare Cancer and Survivor Support Group
This group is for cancer patients, cancer survivors and anyone touched by the disease. Enjoy refreshments and talk with others sharing similar situations and experiences.

• When: Wed., Mar. 15; 4-5:30 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Shannon Luker, RN, BSN, OCN, CBCN
• For additional information, please contact Shannon Luker at 321-268-6111, ext. 3544.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/CancerSupport

Parrish Healthcare Stroke and Heart Survivors Support Group
If you’ve experienced a diagnosis or event, or are caring for someone living with heart disease or stroke, our community is here to support you.

• When: Tues., Mar. 21; 2-4 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/StrokeandHeartSupport

Tools to Quit Smoking Now
We know quitting tobacco isn’t easy but finding help should be. Parrish Healthcare has partnered with Tobacco Free Florida to offer this free class which equips those to use tobacco with tools and services to quit.

• When: Tues., Mar. 28; 5:30-7:30 p.m.
• Where: Parrish Medical Center, 951 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• For more information and to register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/quitsmoking

For more information about available classes, support groups and events, visit parrishhealthcare.com/events.

Parrish Medical Center Hospitalist Group Honored Nationwide

Kevat Patel, MD Director of Hospital Staff, Parrish Medical Center and Medical Director, Parrish Medical Group

Of the honor, Dr. Patel said, "It is an absolute privilege to be part of Parrish Medical Center. Apogee and Parrish are one big family with a commitment of providing safe, healing and exceptional patient care. We are honored to receive this recognition but we, as doctors and nurse practitioners, cannot do it alone.”

Dr. Patel continued, “Our success is deeply rooted in the support we receive from the Parrish Medical Center board of directors, administration, the more than 1,300 care partners that make up this healing organization, and, perhaps most importantly, those who allow us to practice the art of medicine every day – our community. Without you, our degrees would be just mere pieces of paper on a wall.”

“We were, are and will always be one family dedicated to person and family-centered care. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for this wonderful honor. It is truly a testament to the healing experiences that take place every day at Parrish Medical Center", Dr. Patel concluded.

Parrish Medical Center and Apogee Physicians™ have been in partnership since 2020. For more information on the services Parrish Medical Center provides, please visit parrishhealthcare.com.

The Joint Commission awards integrated care recertification to Parrish Healthcare, nation’s first - and only - to earn integrated care recognition

TITUSVILLE, FL (Jan. 30, 2023)— The integrated health care system created by Parrish Medical Center (PMC) has earned recertification after an intensive review by America’s premier health care accrediting body.

Parrish Healthcare, a collaborative structure of health care partners, remains the nation’s only certified integrated care system meeting the standards of The Joint Commission. The Joint Commission reviewers specializing in integrated care determined Parrish Healthcare again met the high standards to achieve certification renewal.

“The Joint Commission’s standards for recertification are stringent,” said George Mikitarian, Parrish Healthcare president and CEO. “That Parrish Healthcare has received it for the third time is a tribute to the collaboration and commitment of our care partners,” said Mikitarian. “Certification continues to make the statement about the legitimacy of our integrated care system more clearly than a hundred marketing campaigns by health care organizations that haven’t successfully put forth the same time, work, or resources to meet the established standards.”

“Integrated Care Certification recognizes health care organizations committed to fostering continuous improvement in patient safety and quality of care,” says Deborah Ryan, MS, RN, interim executive vice president, Accreditation and Certification Operations, The Joint Commission. “We commend Parrish Healthcare for using certification to reduce variation in its clinical processes and to strengthen its program structure and management framework for patients.”

Parrish Healthcare’s first certification was in 2016 and voluntarily seeks recertification every three years.

“We’re proud and humbled to have again accomplished this for our patients’ benefit,” added Mikitarian.

Parrish Healthcare Offers Free Diabetes Education Class February 27

Decoding Diabetes is led by Parrish Healthcare’s Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. This fun, interactive, and instructional class designed for people age 18 and older with diabetes and will include information on:

• Nutrition and meal planning
• Physical wellness
• Preventing complications
• Much more!

Parrish Healthcare Announces Community Support Group Schedule for February

Parrish Healthcare’s Fearless Café
A collaboration with St. Francis Reflections Life Stages Care, this group shares a casual discussion about advanced directives, power of attorney, wills, living wills and all of the often, scary conversations about death and dying.

• When: Wed., Feb. 1; 10-11 am
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/FearlessCafe

Parrish Healthcare Mom’s Support Group
A group for mothers with babies ages birth to six months. During this time, moms will be able to discuss topics such as infant feeding, sleeping, milestones, car seats, play, development, post-partum care, birth control, post-partum depression, dietary needs and much more. Space is limited.

• When: Mon., Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27; 10-11 a.m.
• Where: The Children’s Center, 5650 S. Washington Ave., Titusville
• For additional information and to register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/Moms

Parenting Unique Minds (Autism Spectrum Disorder Workshop)
An 8-session workshop series for parents of preschool children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Parents will learn the importance of play, childhood self-care and independence and the basics of Applied Behavior Analysis.

• When: Wed., Feb. 8; 5:30-6pm
• Where: The Children’s Center, 5650 S. Washington Ave., Titusville
• For additional information and to register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/ASD

Parrish Healthcare’s Caring for Caregivers Support Group
Care giving is a rewarding, yet demanding labor of love. Join us to learn how to care for yourself while you care for your loved one.

• When: Thurs., Feb. 9, 23; 9:30-11:30 am
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/CaregiverSupport

Parrish Healthcare Diabetes Support Group
This support group is for anyone age 18 and older with diabetes. Join us for tips to live better with this disease.

• When: Mon., Feb. 13; 3-4:30 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Peggy McLaughlin, BSN, RN, CDCES
• For additional information, please contact Peggy McLaughlin at 321-268-6699.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/DiabetesSupport

Early Steps Community Play Date
A special play date for children five and under and their parent(s)/guardian(s).

• When: Wed., Feb. 15; 9-10:30am
• Where: The Children’s Center, 5650 S. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Mary Cancel, Family Resource Specialist
• For additional information visit parrishhealthcare.com/EarlySteps

Parrish Healthcare Cancer and Survivor Support Group
This group is for cancer patients, cancer survivors and anyone touched by the disease. Enjoy refreshments and talk with others sharing similar situations and experiences.

• When: Wed., Feb. 15; 4-5:30 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Shannon Luker, RN, BSN, OCN, CBCN
• For additional information, please contact Shannon Luker at 321-268-6111, ext. 3544.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/CancerSupport

Parrish Healthcare Stroke and Heart Survivors Support Group
If you’ve experienced a diagnosis or event, or are caring for someone living with heart disease or stroke, our community is here to support you.

• When: Tues., Feb. 21; 2-4:00 pm
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/StrokeandHeartSupport

Parrish Healthcare A.W.A.K.E Celebration
Alert, Well and Keeping Energetic (AWAKE). Is your family AWAKE? All are invited to join for this free sleep event. Learn how getting a better night’s sleep can improve the overall health of your family. Enjoy a delicious meal and register to win multiple door prize drawings.

• When: Thurs., Feb. 23; 5-8 pm
• Where: Indian River Preserve, 3950 Clubhouse Dr., Mims
• Facilitated by Michele Roberge, RT(R), RPSGT
• For additional information to register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/AWAKE

Tools to Quit Smoking Now
We know quitting tobacco isn’t easy but finding help should be. Parrish Healthcare has partnered with Tobacco Free Florida to offer this free class which equips those to use tobacco with tools and services to quit.

• When: Tues., Feb. 28; 5:30-7:30pm
• Where: Parrish Medical Center, 951 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• For more information and to register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/quitsmoking

Parrish Healthcare Proudly Sponsors Dr. Martin Luther King Day Celebration

This year’s event was organized by Boyz 2 Men with a Purpose whose mission is to support, mentor, and educate boys and young men ages seven and older, to positively impact their communities. The skills and trades taught include culinary arts, graphic design, carpentry, auto mechanics, and more.

Parrish Healthcare has served as a primary sponsor for MLK Day events within North Brevard since 2014. “Our support of MLK Day is one more way we serve to extend the reach of our vision of Healing Families—Healing Communities,” said Parrish Healthcare President/CEO George Mikitarian.

Dr. Martin Luther King Day is the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service to encourage all Americans to volunteer for the improvement of their communities. During the last quarter-century, the MLK Day of Service has grown, and its impact increased as more Americans embraced the idea that citizenship involves taking an active role in improving communities.

“We believe in Dr. King’s enduring message that ‘everybody can be great because everybody can serve,’” said Mikitarian.

“There is greatness in every act of kindness and service whether you donate blood, provide meals or shelter to the homeless, or mentor at-risk youth,” added Mikitarian.

For more information about Boyz 2 Men with a Purpose, visit https://b2mpurpose.com/

Parrish Healthcare Welcomes Dennis Tishko, MD, FACS, Board Certified Thoracic Surgeon

Dennis Tishko, MD, FACS

With more than 30 years’ experience as a board-certified Thoracic Surgeon, Dr. Tishko’s medical philosophy is rooted in person and family-centered care, believing that educated and informed patients do best. Of this, he states, “Their motivation and understanding are critical to a successful recovery. Education is an integral part of the care I provide to each individual and their family.” He is especially passionate about the early detection of lung cancer through innovative and informative cancer screening programs.

Dr. Tishko has performed over 6,000 thoracic surgeries. He has special expertise in caring for those with a diagnosis of lung cancer. To this end, Dr. Tishko invented and pioneered a minimally invasive surgical procedure called single incision video assisted thoracic surgery (SiVATS). This valuable technique extends surgery to those not usually considered to be surgical candidates and promotes less pain, fewer complications and a shorter hospital stay when compared with traditional procedures.

After earning his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati, Dr. Tishko went on to successfully complete his residency in General Surgery at Harvard Medical School in Boston, MA of which he was Chief Resident. He completed fellowships in Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery at the University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics in Madison, WI and the Cleveland Clinic Foundation in Cleveland, OH.

Dr. Tishko is Board Certified in Thoracic Surgery with the American Board of Thoracic Surgery and is a Fellow with the American College of Surgeon and the American College of Chest Physicians. He has been a Clinical Assistant Professor of Surgery at Florida State University for nearly 10 years. Dr. Tishko and his family reside in the North Brevard community.

Conveniently located at Parrish Healthcare Center – Titus Landing, located at 250 Harrison Street, Dr. Tishko welcomes new patients to his practice. For more information visit parrishhealthcare.com/tishko.

Zumpano Patricios Return as Presenting Sponsor for
Jess Parrish Medical Foundation Golf Classic on March 31

More than 200 golfers are expected to play the two-course tournament with all proceeds benefiting The Children’s Center (TCC), a service of Parrish Healthcare, and one-stop childhood development resource center. TCC provides a safe and healing environment for special needs and/or typically developing children to learn and grow, along with an array of health, education and human services under one roof.

“Zumpano Patricios is honored to partner with Jess Parrish Medical Foundation for the ninth year as presenting sponsor of the Fran Gerrett Memorial Golf Classic. It is gratifying to know that our contribution is helping advance the vital work of TCC and that children in North Brevard will continue to have access to the programs, and receive services and support, toward realizing fullest potential during their most important developmental years of life, stated Joseph I. Zumpano, managing shareholder at Zumpano Patricios.

Tournament players can choose between two golf courses – Indian River Preserve Golf Club with its rich, lush rolling fairways designed by Perry Dye and LPGA champion Jan Stephenson or The Great Outdoors Golf Club with the beautiful natural environment of the St. Johns wildlife refuge. Course selection is first-come, first choice with paid registration.

Event registration begins at 7:30 a.m. with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. The tournament format will be a four-player scramble with fun contests, including a chance to win a $1,000 cash prize when purchasing a chance drawing ticket for $20. The drawing will take place at the event. Those purchasing tickets need not be present to win.

Fran Gerrett served as the director of Materials Management at Parrish Medical Center for 24 years. Fran passed away in 2012, but the annual golf tournament lives on as a tribute to his longtime dedication to our community and favorite charity, The Children’s Center.

Community leaders and volunteers organize the golf classic. Event co-chairs are Amy Craddock and Leigh Spradling. Other members of the golf committee include Santi Bulnes, Lana Grimsley, Kathy Myer, Jeff Riley, Kathy Simonsen, Greg Sparkman, and Kristina Weaver.

The foundation welcomes all businesses and organizations to participate and support the event. A variety of sponsorship opportunities are available beginning at $500.

For information on sponsor opportunities, or to purchase chance drawing tickets, contact Jess Parrish Medical Foundation at (321) 269-4066 or visit www.parrishmedfoundation.com/golf.

Jordan Re-Elected Chairman of Parrish Medical Center’s Board of Directors

Mr. Robert Jordan

Vice Chairman: Stanley Retz, CPA. Mr. Retz has served as Parrish Medical Center’s Vice Chairman of the Board of Director since 2021. He has served in other capacities on the Board of Directors since 2012. Mr. Retz has been a certified public accountant for more than 40 years providing tax, accounting and financial advice to businesses and individuals.

Treasurer: Herman A. Cole. Jr. Col, USAF (Ret). Colonel Cole has served on the Parrish Medical Center Board of Directors since 2000 in a number of capacities, including former Chairman of the Board. Colonel Cole has an extensive background in directing, managing and administering large, worldwide construction projects.

Secretary: Elizabeth Galfo, MD. Dr. Galfo has served on the Parrish Medical Center Board of Directors since 2015. She is a Hospice and Palliative Medicine physician with St. Francis Reflections Lifestage Care, serving as the organization’s Chief Medical Officer and Medical Director from 1997 to 2020.

Member-at-Large: Maureen E. Rupe. Ms. Rupe has served on the Parrish Medical Center Board of Directors since 2002. She has an extensive background in public service, including as president of Partnership for a Sustainable Future; chair and board member of League of Women Voters; charter review commission member for Brevard County 2003-2004; Brevard County Land Procedures and Policies Committee; chairman of Port St. John Library board; and president of the Brevard British Club.

In addition to the board officers, the nine-member board of directors includes returning members Billie Fitzgerald, Jerry Noffel, Ashok Shah, MD, and Billy Specht.

Titusville Fire Department Raises Awareness and Funds in Support of Parrish Healthcare’s Cancer Care Program

Titusville Fire Department presents a check for $2,000 to Jess Parrish Medical Foundation for their cancer care program at Parrish Medical Center. Pictured are Parrish Healthcare care partners, Foundation board members and Titusville Fire Department personnel.

Titusville Fire Department showed their support by going pink for the cause with their 2022 Pink Out campaign. During the month of October, as part of nationwide and local efforts to raise breast cancer awareness, department members continued their tradition of selling and wearing pink-themed T-shirts in place of their uniform shirts to observe breast cancer awareness month.

For the eighth year, Titusville Fire has generously given back to JPMF and supported PHC’s cancer care program. In addition to releasing a new design for the limited-edition TFD Breast Cancer Awareness T-shirt and stainless-steel tumblers provided by Printboy, vintage design T-shirts were included in this year’s campaign fundraising selections.

“Social media, online ordering, the addition of new items and numerous longtime campaign supporters contributed to the success of this year’s fundraising,” stated Gregory Sutton, battalion chief of administration, PIO. “Our sincerest thanks to those from our community and beyond that ordered shirts and tumblers to support our campaign in the fight against cancer. We look forward to next year’s campaign, our continued partnership with JPMF and giving back to those we serve.”

Screenings remain a top priority for PHC. “The Cancer Care program at Parrish, the area’s only program that is nationally accredited by the Commission on Cancer, continues to provide free life-saving mammograms to those most in need; those that are out of work, under-insured or without insurance, and those struggling with high deductibles,” said Shannon Luker, PHC breast health navigator and oncology program coordinator. “We are grateful to TFD and all those in the community that supported this year’s campaign. It is gratifying to be part of a community that comes together to help provide the vital resources for cancer screenings that enable us to identify cancer in earlier stages, resulting in better patient outcomes.”

“The generous support provided by Titusville Fire will provide the availability of additional resources and opportunities to those we serve in North Brevard that may not otherwise have access to these critical services and care,” said Rachel Terry, JPMF immediate past board chair and annual gifts co-chair. “We are grateful to our community partner, Titusville Fire Department, for their ongoing commitment to PHC’s cancer care program and helping to advance PMC’s vision of Healing Families—Healing Communities^®.

For more information, contact Jess Parrish Medical Foundation at 321-269-4066 or visit parrishmedfoundation.com.

Parrish Healthcare Offers Free Diabetes Education Class January 23

Decoding Diabetes is led by Parrish Healthcare’s Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. This fun, interactive, and instructional class designed for people age 18 and older with diabetes and will include information on:

• Nutrition and meal planning
• Physical wellness
• Preventing complications
• Much more!

Jess Parrish Medical Foundation Releases Book of Honor Tribute Video

The tribute gift program is available throughout the year and culminates with the Gift of Light celebration and annual holiday tree lighting. Donors can honor a loved with a gift of $35 or more per honoree to place a light on the tree, or a donation of $100 or more for a light on the radiant star and recognition on the Wall of Honor at Parrish Medical Center throughout the following year.

Honor and memorial gifts will be permanently listed in the Book of Honor displayed year-round in the hospital’s All Faiths Chapel and in the atrium during the holiday season. Tributes are also featured in a digital Book of Honor, and can be viewed at www.parrishmedfoundation.com/tributes. The animated video showcases those memorialized, as well as those making donations in another’s honor.

Through these tribute gifts, donors have helped provide support to our first responders with lifesaving equipment and training; programs and services for those Parrish Healthcare has the privilege to serve; and medical scholarships to assist the next generation of medical professionals in their pursuits of shaping the future of healthcare. Every day, tribute gifts are helping to make a difference in our Mission: Healing Experiences for Everyone All The Time® and Vision: Healing Families—Healing Communities®.

“We are overjoyed by the tremendous support we continue to receive for Gift of Light tributes, and are delighted to have so many organizations and community partners joining us to make a difference in our community,” said Randall Coleman, Chairman of the JPMF Board of Directors.

Honor a loved one with a tribute gift by contacting Jess Parrish Medical Foundation at 321-269-4066 or visit www.parrishmedfoundation.com/donate.

Parrish Healthcare Welcomes New Chief Financial Officer

Of joining Parrish Healthcare, Mr. Eljaiek says, “I could not be more excited to be part of the Parrish Healthcare family. Their commitment to person and family-centered care, to patient safety and to the local community are second to none. I look forward to fulfilling our mission by serving those who have trusted us with their health care needs.”

Mr. Eljaiek earned his Bachelor of Science in Accounting and went on to successfully complete his Master of Accounting both from Florida International University in Miami, Florida. He is a Certified Public Accountant and also holds a Healthcare Financial Management Association certification as a Certified Healthcare Financial Professional. His other accolades include a membership with the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) and as a CFO Fellow with the GE Healthcare Management Academy.

Prior to joining Parrish Healthcare, Lester served as Regional Chief Financial Officer for Broward Health in Fort Lauderdale, FL, a public, not-for-profit health system. He has also served as Senior Vice President of Finance for Lifespan, a not-for-profit Rhode Island-based health system and as Vice President of Finance for Sentara Healthcare, a not-for-profit health system located in Norfolk, VA. Mr. Eljaiek resides in the North Brevard community with his family.

PARRISH MEDICAL CENTER AND CIGNA REACH AGREEMENT TO ENSURE CONTINUED ACCESS TO CARE

“While we regret Cigna’s failure to timely and fairly resolve the dispute that resulted in its members suffering unnecessary confusion over potential disruption in service, we are pleased Cigna members will continue to have access to high quality healthcare close to home,” said Parrish Healthcare President/CEO George Mikitarian.

This new agreement ensures peace of mind for the customers mutually served by Parrish Medical Center and Cigna – there will not be any disruption of service and Parrish Medical Center continues as an in-network provider for Cigna customers.

Parrish Medical Group Welcomes General Surgeon Peng Yu

Dr. Yu received his bachelor of medicine in 1998 from Dalian Medical University. He then successfully completed residencies in general surgery both internationally and in the United States. Dr. Yu went on to study the specialty of burn surgery and critical care as a clinical fellow at the University of Colorado. He holds certifications in advanced trauma life support and in the specialties of laparoscopic and endoscopic surgery.

Dr. Yu is excited to join the Parrish Medical Group team of experts and to provide quality general surgical services to the North Brevard community. Parrish Medical Group and Dr. Yu are now accepting new patients. For more information visit parrishhealthcare.com/yu.

Parrish Medical Center earns prestigious Baby-Friendly Designation

This distinguished honor demonstrates that PMC is adhering to the highest standards of care for breastfeeding mothers and their babies. These standards are built on the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding, a set of evidence-based practices recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) for optimal infant feeding support in the precious first days of a newborn’s life.

The positive health effects of breastfeeding are well documented and widely recognized by health authorities throughout the world. For example, the Surgeon General’s 2011 Call to Action to Support Breastfeeding stated that “Breast milk is uniquely suited to the human infant’s nutritional needs and is a live substance with unparalleled immunological and anti-inflammatory properties that protect against a host of illnesses and diseases for both mothers and children.”

Parrish Medical Center joins a growing list of more than 20,000 Baby-Friendly hospitals and birth centers throughout the world, 603 of which are in the United States. These facilities provide an environment that supports breastfeeding while respecting every woman’s right to make the best decision for herself and her family.

“We are extremely proud to be recognized for the hard work of our care partners throughout the Baby-Friendly process,” said Melinda Hodges, Manager, Parrish Medical Center Women’s Center. “PMC is committed to providing the support, education and resources moms need to successfully initiate breastfeeding and continue breastfeeding when they leave our care.”

“This designation is the culmination of a lot of hard work and determination across our organization, all with a goal of helping families get off to a good start,” added Parrish Healthcare’s Sr. Vice President Natalie Sellers. “We are proud to offer an environment that supports best practices shown to increase breastfeeding exclusivity and duration and are committed to give moms who choose to breastfeed the best chance for success.”

Jess Parrish Medical Foundation Now Accepting Scholarship Applications for Students Pursuing Career in Healthcare

Scholarships will be awarded to graduating high school seniors who reside in the Parrish Medical Center service area. Undergraduate students pursuing a degree in the human health/medical field are also eligible to apply. Students must have a 3.0 grade point average or greater, based on a 4.0 scale. Students who have been awarded a JPMF scholarship in previous years may reapply provided they are continuing in a medical/healthcare field and have maintained at least a 3.0 grade point average. Graduate students are not eligible.

High school students who attend Astronaut High School, Space Coast Jr./Sr. High School and Titusville High School may obtain an application from the Guidance Office at their school. Others may obtain an application by calling the Jess Parrish Medical Foundation at 321-269-4066 or by visiting www.parrishmedfoundation.com/scholarships. The deadline for submitting applications is Friday, March 10, 2023.

Parrish Healthcare ends Relationship with Cigna

See update December 19, 2022

“We cannot continue to operate at a loss with Cigna,” said Parrish Healthcare Senior Vice President and Chief Transformation Officer Chris McAlpine, who said along with the financial losses Cigna is forcing on Parrish, the insurance giant also refuses to pay $1.3 million it owes additionally for services to its members.

“Operating at a deficit with Cigna means we would have to make up the difference from other payers, and/or increase our rates to self-pay patients, which is not fair to others who use our hospital,” McAlpine said.

“This was a difficult but necessary decision,” McAlpine added. “We have tried for many months to reach an agreement with Cigna through which Parrish Healthcare would not be operating at a loss related to Cigna patients; unfortunately, we could not arrive at an arrangement that was fair to the hospital and ultimately, to the people we serve. For months we have been in negotiations with Cigna representatives Vice President, Network Management North Florida Diane Wilkosz, Assistant Vice President Network Management Ron Bechor, Institutional Network Administrator Phil Osczepinski and Provider Contract Negotiator Lee Shupsky, to no avail.”

Parrish continues to work cooperatively with more than 20 insurers; however, as of Dec. 16, Cigna will not be on the list.

Parrish Healthcare charges patients less than all other Brevard hospitals, according to information on the Florida Compare Care Web site based on results reported and certified by health care facilities to the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration.

Losses occurring from the Cigna contract are felt acutely, McAlpine said. According to Parrish Healthcare, Cigna has refused to pay $1.3 million it additionally owes for services contractually rendered to Cigna members.

This is despite “Cigna’s outlook for full year 2022 adjusted revenues is projected be at least $179 billion,” according to a recent press release, “Cigna Reports Strong Third Quarter 2022 Results, Raises 2022 Outlook.”

The release also stated, “Cigna’s outlook for full year 2022 consolidated adjusted income from operations is projected to be $7.23 billion.”

Furthermore, according to Cigna’s published quarterly financials, the multi-billion-dollar insurance company reports its net income is up 70.08%; net profit margin is up 67.12% and its net change in cash is up 749.11%.

A letter issued by Cigna concerning Parrish to its member states, “our goal is to reach an agreement that keeps your healthcare affordable.”

However, Parrish Healthcare’s Parrish Medical Center is the county’s only public hospital, and is one of the least expensive hospitals in the state. As such, Parrish Healthcare’s position has been consistently clear, said George Mikitarian, Parrish Healthcare president and CEO.

“This matter could have been easily resolved some time ago by Cigna paying us what we are owed, $1.3 million,” Mikitarian said. What has occurred has been to string us along hoping that we would just give in and go away. Under the conditions Cigna is imposing on us and the people we serve, we cannot and will not rescind our notice of termination. It’s the only avenue left to us.

Shame on them for initiating such a heartless tactic!” Additionally, Mikitarian said that as an Independent District of the State of Florida, “We view these funds as the public’s money: $1.3 million is a material sum of money for our organization as we carry out our charitable mission. There is no dispute as to whether this money is owed to us. We have provided to Cigna a very reasonable solution. We expect to be paid.”

Parrish Healthcare is also the only clinically integrated organization in the country as accredited by the Joint Commission, the nation’s leading healthcare organization accreditation body. Parrish Healthcare’s clinical integration has led to successful performance of its contract with Brevard Public Schools. Parrish Healthcare is Cigna’s preferred network within the BPS Silver Plan offered to its employees and performs exponentially better in terms of cost-savings for both the employer and the employees. According to Cigna’s numbers, BPS’ Gold Plan is $12 million over budget and the Silver Plan is $2M better than budget.

“The cost savings to the BPS and its employees have been substantial,” said McAlpine. “Therefore, we do not see our expectation of full repayment as a burden to a multi-billion-dollar insurance company that has posted record earnings or its subscribers. It is exactly the opposite.”

“What we cannot do, regardless of the size of Cigna or their bullying tactics, is lose money in our dealings with the company,” added Mikitarian.

It is important to note, however, there is no impact on use of emergency services; those will continue to be covered as in the past, he said.

For a list of insurers with which Parrish Healthcare (Parrish Medical Center and Parrish Medical Group) participate is available by visiting https://www.parrishhealthcare.com/patients-visitors/financial-services/insurance-affiliate/. Cigna will be removed from the website as an affiliate effective December 16, 2022.

Healing Holiday Sounds at Parrish Medical Center

A sampling of the classic seasonal songs that the Brevard Symphony Orchestra performed, included Little Drummer Boy, Walking in a Winter Wonderland, Jingle Bell Rock and Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer, to name a few.

Understanding and believing in music’s healing affects, Parrish Medical Center has made music a regular part of its healing environment for more than two decades. Live weekly music performances have been reinstated since the pandemic and are held in the medical center’s atrium near the central seating area for outpatient services and the atrium cafe. Community volunteer musicians as well as professional musicians play weekly. A beautiful baby grand piano, donated by PMC Volunteer Services, has a prominent place as well in the atrium.

“Whether it is a scheduled outpatient surgery, MRI or mammogram, having access to healing music helps to ease feelings of stress or anxiety,” said Parrish Healthcare Senior Vice President, Natalie Sellers. “We will be hosting several other holiday musical performances throughout the month of December such as Titusville Fine Arts Institute, local elementary school choral groups, volunteer pianists and other musicians,” Sellers said.

Healing Experiences For Everyone All The Time® is Parrish Healthcare’s mission and the system has served to fulfill that mission in part by providing a healing environment it has designed and created for the people and community served. To view Parrish Healthcare’s music schedule visit, parrishhealthcare.com/events-calendar. If you are interested in being a volunteer musician please contact 321-268-6110.

Parrish Healthcare Announces Community Support Groups Schedule for December

Parrish Healthcare Mom’s Support Group
A group for mothers with babies ages birth to six months. During this time, moms will be able to discuss topics such as infant feeding, sleeping, milestones, car seats, play, development, post-partum care, birth control, post-partum depression, dietary needs and much more. Space is limited.

• When: Mondays, Dec. 5, 12, 19; 10-11 a.m.
• Where: The Children’s Center, 5650 S. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Teri Newman, MSN, RNC-MNN, IBCLC
• For additional information and to register, contact Teri Newman at teri.newman@parrishmed.com

Parrish Healthcare’s Fearless Café
A collaboration with St. Francis Reflections Life Stages Care, this group shares a casual discussion about advanced directives, power of attorney, wills, living wills and all of the often, scary conversations about death and dying.

• When: Wednesday, Dec. 7; 10-11 am
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/FearlessCafe

Parrish Healthcare’s Caring for Caregivers Support Group
Care giving is a rewarding, yet demanding labor of love. Join us to learn how to care for yourself while you care for your loved one.

• When: Thursdays, Dec. 8 & Dec. 22; 9:30-11:30 am
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/CaregiverSupport

Parrish Healthcare A.W.A.K.E Sleep Support
This group is dedicated to exchanging information and increasing awareness of sleep, sleeping disorders, and related health concerns. Everyone with an interest in sleep and health is encouraged to attend.

• When: Thursday, Dec. 8, 5:15 – 7 p.m.
• Where: Indian River Preserve
• Facilitated by Michele Roberge, RT(R), RPSGT
• For additional information, please contact Michele Roberge at 321-268-6408.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/SleepSupport

Parrish Healthcare Stroke and Heart Survivors Support Group
If you’ve experienced a diagnosis or event, or are caring for someone living with heart disease or stroke, our community is here to support you.

• When: Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2-3:30 pm
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/StrokeandHeartSupport

• When: Wednesday, Dec. 21, 4-5:30 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Shannon Luker, RN, BSN, OCN, CBCN
• For additional information, please contact Shannon Luker at 321-268-6111, ext. 3544.
• To register, visit parrishhealthcare.com/CancerSupport

Parrish Healthcare offers free Decoding Diabetes Education Class

Titusville, FL (November 23, 2022)—Parrish Healthcare is offering a free community education class on diabetes. Decoding Diabetes is scheduled Monday, December 19, from 3 to 4 pm, at Parrish Medical Center’s Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Avenue, Titusville, FL 32796 (south of the Parrish Medical Center’s main campus on the corner of Jess Parrish Court and US-1).

Decoding Diabetes is led by Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist Peggy McLaughlin, BSN, RN, CDCES. McLaughlin will decode diabetes during this fun, interactive, and instructional class designed for people age 18 and older with diabetes.

The class will include information on:

• Nutrition and meal planning
• Physical wellness
• Preventing complications
• Much more!

For additional information, please contact Peggy McLaughlin at 321-268-6699.

Jess Parrish Medical Foundation Elects New Officers

TITUSVILLE, FLA. (Nov. 15, 2022)—Jess Parrish Medical Foundation (JPMF), the philanthropic arm of Parrish Healthcare (PHC), announced the election of Randall Coleman as chair of its board of directors. Coleman, a CFP®, is a senior vice president at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management.

Dedicated to making a difference in the community, Coleman is past president of Titusville Sunrise Rotary; Brevard County Chapter of Certified Public Accounts; Brevard County Estate Planning Council; and Friends of the Children’s Advocacy Center of Brevard. In addition to serving as chair of JPMF, he currently serves on the board of Eastern Florida State College Foundation; Titusville YMCA; United Way of Brevard County; and Brevard County Civilian Military Relations Council.

Other executive board officers include: Melissa Lugo, chair elect; Philip Simpson, Ph.D., vice-chair; Kelley Broome, secretary; Josh Norris, treasurer; Rachel Terry, immediate past chair; and George Mikitarian, ex-officio and PHC president/CEO.

Members elected to serve on the executive committee are: Christopher Broome, Esq; Santiago Bulnes; Jessie Kirk; Jason Snodgrass; N. Christine Sylvester; and Barbara Terhune.

Directors elected to serve on the board include: Jerry Allender, Esq; Richard Boggs; Winnie Brewer; William Chivers; Herman Cole; Mary Coleman; David D. Ferguson; Dorothy Hudson; Terry Lee; J.J. Parrish III; Howard Rinker, DDS; Turmy Sieveking; and William Terry.

“As a member of the JPMF board for more than 17 years, I am honored to assume this leadership role and look forward to building on the successes of my predecessors. Each of the incredible community leaders I have the privilege to serve with bring a unique perspective to their role,” said Coleman.

“Together, we will continue to forge initiatives that advance the mission, vision and values of Parrish Healthcare.”

Coleman and his wife Mary reside in Titusville and have two children, Randall and Marissa.

PMC has fully activated its Hurricane/Tropical Storm emergency response protocols to include a partial lock down of hospital beginning at 6 p.m.

Public access to the hospital will be limited to persons requiring emergency medical attention. In the interest of public safety, general visitation will not be permitted after 6 p.m. However, hospitalized patients are permitted one partner in care to remain with them until the storm event is cleared. The partial lock-down status will remain in effect until further notice.

In addition, elective procedures have been canceled for tomorrow, Thurs., Nov. 10, but will resume normal operations on Fri., Nov. 11.

Reminder that the hospital is not a shelter. For shelter information, visit brevardfl.gov/EmergencyManagement.

Jess Parrish Medical Foundation Announces Karla Foster, RN, Scholarship Recipients

The scholarship, established by Doug Foster in loving memory of his wife, Karla, who was a nurse at Parrish Medical Center for more than 22 years, offers the opportunity to deserving nursing students to carry on the professionalism, commitment, dedication and loving care that she demonstrated all her life.

Scholarship recipients include from Florida State University, Kenzington Allender; Natalie Edwards-Giambanco, Daytona State College; Julia Simonson, University of Central Florida; Robert Sluka, University of Florida; and Sarah Sluka, University of Miami.

Criteria for applicants included North Brevard County residency; acceptance into a nursing program; possessing a 3.0 or better grade point average; recommendation letters; and personal essay. Funds awarded will be available for tuition, books, supplies or other expenses related to completing the student’s nursing program.

Selection committee members include Director, Medical/Surgical Helen Chambers, RN, BSN; Manager Communications & People Development Ericka Jacobs, RN, MSN; Executive Director, Surgical, Emergency and Critical Care Services Matthew Graybill, MSHA, BSN, RN, NEA-BC, CNOR, and Chief Nursing Officer and Senior Vice President Integrated and Acute Care Edwin Loftin, DNP, MBA, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE.

“All of our recipients are exceptional and we look to them to lead the next generation in shaping the future of healthcare, said Randall Coleman, Chairman, JPMF Board of directors. We are delighted to be able to award scholarships to such accomplished and deserving students."

JPMF is investing in the future by awarding medical scholarships to residents in North Brevard County who are pursuing careers that one day will provide healing to our community. Since 1990, JPMF has awarded more than $514,000 in scholarships to deserving students.

For more information, please contact Jess Parrish Medical Foundation at 321-269-4066 or visit parrishmedfoundation.com.

9/28/2022

Brevard County Officials Schedule 1:30PM Facebook Live Update on Hurricane Ian

Parrish Medical Center Board Votes No Taxes for 28th straight year

PMC is an independent, public, not-for-profit hospital, and state law gives the North Brevard Hospital District (d/b/a Parrish Medical Center) the authority to set a tax rate to support hospital operations.

However, unlike most public hospitals, the PMC Board of Directors has for 28 years voted not to use tax dollars as a means of funding the hospital.

“PMC serves the community’s health through compassionate and exceptional care and is recognized as one of the nation’s finest healing environments,” said PMC Board Chairman Robert Jordan. “We are pleased to continue to take this position on behalf of the community we serve while also investing tens of millions of dollars back into North Brevard each year in charity care and services.”

“As long as the community continues to support PMC – PMC will be able to continue to support the community,” concluded Jordan.

Parrish Healthcare Offers Low-cost 3D Mammograms during Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Nearly one in eight women in the U.S. will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. Advanced breast imaging, such as the 3D mammography offered by Parrish Healthcare, is an important tool in early detection and can save lives!

To find out what to expect from your mammogram visit or for more information on women’s health at Parrish Healthcare, please visit parrishhealthcare.com/mammogram.

Screenings must be completed within the month of October and are by appointment only. For more information and appointment scheduling call (321) 268-6111 ext. 6150.

September 23, 2022

Parrish Healthcare Releases Community Support Groups Schedule for October

Parrish Healthcare’s Fearless Café
A collaboration with St. Francis Reflections Life Stages Care, this group shares a casual discussion about advanced directives, power of attorney, wills, living wills and all of the often, scary conversations about death and dying.

Parrish Healthcare’s Caring for Caregivers Support Group
Care giving is a rewarding, yet demanding labor of love. Join us to learn how to care for yourself while you care for your loved one.

Parrish Healthcare Diabetes Support Group
This support group is for anyone age 18 and older with diabetes. Join us for tips to live better with this disease.

Parrish Healthcare Stroke and Heart Survivors Support Group
If you’ve experienced a diagnosis or event, or are caring for someone living with heart disease or stroke, our community is here to support you.

Parrish Healthcare Cancer and Survivor Support Group
This group is for cancer patients, cancer survivors and anyone touched by the disease. Enjoy refreshments and talk with others sharing similar situations and experiences.

Parrish Healthcare A.W.A.K.E Sleep Support
This group is dedicated to exchanging information and increasing awareness of sleep, sleeping disorders, and related health concerns. Everyone with an interest in sleep and health is encouraged to attend.

Print a PDF of this schedule.

Parrish Healthcare Welcomes Ajit Janardhan, MD, PhD,
Board Certified Cardiologist and Cardiac Electrophysiologist

Ajit Janardhan, MD

TITUSVILLE, FLA. (Sept. 14, 2022)— Parrish Healthcare and Parrish Medical Group are pleased to welcome Ajit Janardhan, MD, Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Diseases and Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology. Dr. Janardhan is an avid researcher of cardiac issues. His focus is on the improvement of treatments for electrical disorders of the heart, specifically related to heart dysrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia.

Dr. Janardhan received both his Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Biomedical Engineering at Boston University. He earned his Ph.D. and Medical Degree from Stony Brook University School of Medicine in Stony Brook, NY. Dr. Janardhan’s Residency and Fellowship training took place at Washington University School of Medicine and Barnes­-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO. There he completed his advanced training in Cardiology, Internal Medicine and Cardiac Electrophysiology.

Dr. Janardhan's professional interests and extensive training include supraventricular tachycardias, ventricular tachycardia, device therapy, atrial fibrillation, cryptogenic stroke, syncope and the prevention of sudden cardiac death. His training also includes a sub-specialty in the insertion and management of pacemakers, defibrillators, sleep apnea devices, cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) devices, and in the catheter ablation of atrial and ventricular arrhythmias.

Dr. Janardhan has published numerous scientific journal articles, book chapters, and scientific abstracts which received top accolades and awards at scientific conferences, including from The Heart Rhythm Society for his ground-breaking research.

Dr. Janardhan welcomes new patients to his practice, at Parrish Healthcare Center – Port St. John, located at 5005 Port St. John Parkway. For more information about Dr. Janardhan and to schedule an appointment visit parrishhealthcare.com/janardhan.

Parrish Healthcare Releases Community Support Groups Schedule for September — Print PDF

Parrish Healthcare’s Fearless Café
A collaboration with St. Francis Reflections Life Stages Care, this group shares a casual discussion about advanced directives, power of attorney, wills, living wills and all of the often, scary conversations about death and dying.

• When: Wednesday, Sept. 7, 10-11 am
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, visit www.parrishhealthcare.com/FearlessCafe

• When: Thursdays, Sept. 8 and 22, 9:30-11:30 am
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, visit www.parrishhealthcare.com/CaregiverSupport

• When: Mondays, Sept. 12, 19, 26, 10-11 a.m.
• Where: The Children’s Center, 5650 S. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Teri Newman, MSN, RNC-MNN, IBCLC
• For additional information and to register, contact Teri Newman at teri.newman@parrishmed.com.

• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Peggy McLaughlin, BSN, RN, CDCES
• For additional information, please contact Peggy McLaughlin at 321-268-6699.
• To register, visit www.parrishhealthcare.com/DiabetesSupport

• When: Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2-4 pm
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, visit www.parrishhealthcare.com/StrokeandHeartSupport

• When: Wednesday, Sept.21, 4-5:30 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Shannon Luker, RN, BSN, OCN, CBCN
• For additional information, please contact Shannon Luker at 321-268-6111, ext. 3544.
• To register, visit www.parrishhealthcare.com/CancerSupport

• When: Wednesday, Sept. 28, 6-7:30 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Michele Roberge, RT(R), RPSGT
• For additional information, please contact Michele Roberge at 321-268-6408.
• To register, visit www.parrishhealthcare.com/SleepSupport

Parrish Healthcare to Host Free Community Presentation by Orthopedic Expert Panel

What: Life Moves Orthopedic Panel Discussion
Featuring Dr. Anthony Allotta, Dr. Johnathan Lubitz, Dr. Bryan Parry and Dr. David Schafer
When: Wednesday, September 7; 5:30 – 7:15 pm
Where: Indian River Preserve 3950 Clubhouse Dr. Mims, FL

CLICK for PDF of this announcement

The event is free, but seating is limited. Reserve yours by registering at parrishhealthcare.com/OrthoEvent

Prominent Oncology/Hematology Specialist Robert K. Oldham, MD, joins Parrish Healthcare

Robert K. Oldham, MD

TITUSVILLE, FLA. (July 25, 2022)— Parrish Healthcare and Parrish Medical Group are pleased to welcome Board-Certified Oncologist Robert K. Oldham, MD to the North Brevard community. Dr. Oldham is an internationally recognized oncology/hematology specialist and is regarded as a leading pioneer in the development and use of immunotherapy - the fourth modality in cancer treatment. His primary mission has been to improve the outcomes for his patients with cancer and blood disorders.

Dr. Oldham attended the University of Missouri where his undergraduate studies were in chemical engineering and pre-medical sciences. He completed his internship and residency in Internal Medicine at Vanderbilt in Nashville. He continued his education with a Medical Oncology Fellowship and graduate studies in immunology at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in Bethesda, Maryland where he served as Clinical Associate in the Radiation Branch and in the Cellular and Tumor Immunology Section of the Laboratory of Cell Biology. Dr. Oldham also completed a fellowship in Paris, France with Professor Georges Mathé, a distinguished bone marrow transplant hematologist.

Extremely active in both research and leadership in cancer treatment, Dr. Oldham has served in multiple roles as a professor and research associate all around the globe. As a founder of multiple oncology divisions and organizations including the Biological Therapy Institute and Bio-therapeutics Incorporated, the Division of Oncology at Vanderbilt University and the Biologic Response Modifiers Program (BRMP) at the National Cancer Institute, Dr. Oldham is a pioneer in the field of oncology.

He holds a Clinical Professorship of Medicine in Hematology/Oncology at the University of Missouri-Columbia and has been a Clinical Professor in the Department of Biomedical Sciences at Florida State University College of Medicine. Additionally, he has served as a consultant in the US and overseas including Gen-Cell (Rhône-Poulenc), Jenner Technologies, Welcome Biotechnology Ltd. and Amersham Corporation in England. He also served as a senior consultant with the American Red Cross, Cell Genesys Inc., Xcyte Therapies and Maxim Pharmaceuticals.

Oldham has founded and served as editor-in-chief of three medical journals: Cancer Biotherapy (now Cancer Biotherapy & Radio­­­­­­­­­­pharmaceuticals), Molecular Biotherapy, and Journal of Biological Response Modifiers (now Journal of Immunotherapy). He is the co-editor of Principles of Cancer Biotherapy’ the first comprehensive textbook on the fourth modality of cancer treatment. He has authored or edited fifteen books on cancer treatment and research. Additionally, he has contributed nearly 500 papers to the medical/scientific literature and has presented thousands of abstracts, posters, and lectures at various meetings on cancer research and treatment. Dr. Oldham has received many awards and honors. He holds, or has held, membership in 19 professional societies.

Dr. Oldham welcomes new patients to his practice, located at 830 Century Medical Drive, Suite B, Titusville, Florida. For more information about Dr. Oldham and to schedule an appointment visit parrishhealthcare.com/oldham.

Parrish Healthcare Releases Community Support Groups Schedule for August

• When: Mondays, August 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29, 10-11 a.m.
• Where: The Children’s Center, 5650 S. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Teri Newman, MSN, RNC-MNN, IBCLC
• For additional information and to register, contact Teri Newman at teri.newman@parrishmed.com.

Parrish Healthcare’s Fearless Café
A collaboration with St. Francis Reflections Life Stages Care, this group shares a casual discussion about advanced directives, power of attorney, wills, living wills and all of the often, scary conversations about death and dying.

• When: Wednesday, August 3, 10-11 am
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, please visit www.parrishhealthcare.com/FearlessCafe

Parrish Healthcare Diabetes Support Group
This support group is for anyone age 18 and older with diabetes. Join us for tips to live better with this disease.

• When: Monday, August 8, 3-4:30 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Peggy McLaughlin, BSN, RN, CDCES
• For additional information, please contact Peggy McLaughlin at 321-268-6699.
• To register, please visit www.parrishhealthcare.com/DiabetesSupport

Parrish Healthcare’s Caring for Caregivers Support Group
Care giving is a rewarding, yet demanding labor of love. Join us to learn how to care for yourself while you care for your loved one.

• When: Thursdays, August 11 and 25, 9:30-11:30 am
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, please visit www.parrishhealthcare.com/CaregiverSupport

Parrish Healthcare Stroke and Heart Survivors Support Group
If you’ve experienced a diagnosis or event, or are caring for someone living with heart disease or stroke, our community is here to support you.

• When: Tuesday, August 16, 2-4 pm
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, please visit www.parrishhealthcare.com/StorkeandHeartSurvivorSupport

Parrish Healthcare Cancer and Survivor Support Group
This group is for cancer patients, cancer survivors and anyone touched by the disease. Enjoy refreshments and talk with others sharing similar situations and experiences.

• When: Wednesday, August 17, 4-5:30 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Shannon Luker, RN, BSN, OCN, CBCN
• For additional information, please contact Shannon Luker at 321-268-6111, ext. 3544.
• To register, please visit www.parrishhealthcare.com/CancerandSurvivorSupportGroup

Parrish Healthcare A.W.A.K.E Sleep Support
This group is dedicated to exchanging information and increasing awareness of sleep, sleeping disorders, and related health concerns. Everyone with an interest in sleep and health is encouraged to attend.

• When: Wednesday, August 31, 6-7:30 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Michele Roberge, RT(R), RPSGT
• For additional information, please contact Michele Roberge at 321-268-6408.
• To register, please visit www.parrishhealthcare.com/AWAKESupportGroup

Be a Parrish Care Partner!
Each Thursday, Parrish Healthcare hosts open interviews from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. The event is for ALL positions. Walk-ins welcome! For more information please contact Tori Watson, Clinical Recruiter at 321-268-6111, ext. 7749

Parrish Healthcare Supports Local Student Athletes’ Health

Bryan Parry, MD & Anthony Allotta, DO - Sports Medicine and Athletic Training

This year, Dr. Allotta was joined by PMG’s Orthopedic Surgeon Bryan Parry, MD, certified athletic trainers, and representatives from Who We Play For. Nearly 200 physicals were completed and, of those, 100 participants opted to receive a potentially life-saving electrocardiogram (ECG).

“Parrish Healthcare is a proud sponsor of Who We Play For (since 2019). Together, we have served to eliminate preventable sudden cardiac death in youth by making available affordable heart screenings at our annual events,” said PMC Sport Medicine Physician Anthony Allotta.

Parrish Medical Group’s Dr. Allotta, Athletic Trainers, and soon to be joined by Dr. Parry, work with local student athletes before, during, and after the school year. They are on the fields for practices and game time to provide medical support and to teach injury prevention techniques at four area high schools: Titusville High School, Space Coast Jr/Sr High School, Astronaut High School, and Cocoa High School. If an injury occurs, the same team that is there for them on the fields is there through their treatment and recovery.

“Working with local student athletes by performing our annual sports physicals as well as providing athletic training and medical support during sports seasons is a terrific way that care partners at Parrish Medical Group can give back to our community and support our mission of healing experiences for everyone all the time,” said Dr. Allotta.

Parrish Medical Group Welcomes General Surgeon Alphonse Pecoraro Jr., MD, FACS

Alphonse Pecoraro Jr., MD, FACS

TITUSVILLE, FLA. (July 18, 2022)— Parrish Medical Group is pleased to welcome Board-Certified General Surgeon Alphonse Pecoraro Jr., MD, FACS to the North Brevard community. Dr. Pecoraro completed his undergraduate degree in biochemistry and his medical degree at New Jersey Medical School in Newark, graduating as Valedictorian of both his college and medical school class. Subsequently, he completed both his internship and residency training in General Surgery at New York University/Bellevue Hospital, where he also served as Executive Chief Resident. His office is located at Parrish Healthcare Center at Titus Landing, 250 Harrison Street, Titusville, FL 32780.

Dr. Pecoraro’s clinical interests encompass a broad spectrum of surgical specialties and diseases including disorders of the breast, colon, stomach, gallbladder, pancreas, hernia, complex wound care and skin related disorders. With a special interest in surgical oncology, Dr. Pecoraro held appointment as the Cancer Liaison Physician to the American College of Surgeons and received two consecutive national recognition awards for his work in this role. In addition, he has held numerous appointments including the Chief of Surgery and Chief of Medical Staff at Cape Canaveral Hospital, as well as Director of Residency Education and Chief of Surgery at Staten Island University Hospital in Staten Island, NY. More recently, he served as Chief of Surgery Chairman of Credentials Committee and a past member of the Board of Trustees at Rockledge Regional Medical Center.

He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and maintains membership in many medical organizations including the American Society of Breast Surgeons, Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgery and Society of Surgery of the Alimentary Tract (SSAT). He has also been elected as a member of Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society.

He has held a board position on the Brevard County American Cancer Society and served as their Medical Director as well. Dr. Pecoraro has lived with his wife and two children in Brevard County since 2002 and is currently practicing surgery at Parrish Medical Center and is a member of Parrish Medical Group.

Dr. Pecoraro and Parrish Medical Group are now accepting new patients. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 321-268-6868 or visit parrishhealthcare.com/Pecoraro.

Jess Parrish Medical Foundation Accepting Karla Foster, RN, Scholarship Applications

TITUSVILLE, FLA. (July 11, 2022)—Jess Parrish Medical Foundation (JPMF) is now accepting applications for Karla Foster, RN, Memorial Scholarships. Applicants must be residents of North Brevard County; accepted into a nursing program; and possess a 3.0 or higher grade point average. New or currently enrolled nursing students are eligible to apply.

Two scholarships of more than $1,500 each are being awarded for assistance with tuition, books, supplies or other expenses related to completing the student’s nursing program.

Doug Foster established the scholarship in loving memory of his wife, Karla, tragically killed on Sept. 11, 2006 by a hit-and-run driver. Karla had been a nurse at Parrish Medical Center for more than 22 years. This scholarship honors Karla and the profession she loved so much, and offers the opportunity to a deserving nursing student to carry on the professionalism, commitment, dedication and loving care that she demonstrated all her life.

For additional information on applying, or to make a tax-deductible contribution to the Karla Foster, RN, Memorial Scholarship Fund, please contact the Jess Parrish Medical Foundation at 321-269-4066 or visit www.parrishmedfoundation.com/scholarships. Deadline for submitting applications is Friday, August 19, 2022. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Scholarship award recipients will be announced in September 2022.

Jess Parrish Medical Foundation to Host Annual Gala “A Whole New World” Benefiting the Advancement of Parrish Healthcare’s Critical and Innovative Healthcare Technologies and Services

TITUSVILLE, FLA. (July 11, 2022)—After a year of pandemic scheduling woes, A Whole New World, Jess Parrish Medical Foundation’s first in-person gala since COVID-19, is set to take place on Saturday, October 15, from 5:30-10 p.m. at Space Coast Convention Center, Cocoa. GrayRobinson, P.A., and William A. and Laura M. Boyles are presenting sponsors.

Sultans, wise genies and Ali Baba will come to life in the elegant Arabian Night themed evening alive with Mediterranean inspired cuisine, enchanting music, dancing and magic lamps. A Whole New World is sure to be an evening you will not forget.

Guests will enjoy dinner in the Casbah inspired ballroom, cocktails at the Oasis Sand Bar, souvenir photos, and the opportunity to take home a new libation if they take a chance at the wine pull. Elegant Aladdin inspired attire suggested; black tie optional.

“GrayRobinson, P.A. and William and Laura Boyles are honored to once again partner with Jess Parrish Medical Foundation as presenting sponsor of their annual benefit gala,” said GrayRobinson shareholder, William A. Boyles. “It is gratifying to know that our investment will be helping advance critical and innovative healthcare technologies and services for the North Brevard Community.”

Co-chairs for the event are Judy Allender, Winnie Brewer, Kelley Broome, Mary Coleman, Jessie Kirk, and Rachel Terry.

Event proceeds will champion the advancement of critical and innovative health care technologies and services to improve patient outcomes in support of the healing mission of Parrish Healthcare.

“The outpouring of support we have received for A Whole New World has been extraordinary. We are grateful to have so many organizations and community partners joining us to make a difference in the health of our community,” said JPMF Board Chair, Rachel Terry.

In addition to presenting sponsors GrayRobinson, P.A. and William A. and Laura M. Boyles, the growing list of this year’s event partners include the Genie of Generosity-level sponsor: UBS Financial Services / Susan Morse and Daniel Levy; Sultan of Agrabah-level sponsors: Brevard Indo-American Medical & Dental Association (BIMDA), Coastal Health Systems of Brevard, Jessie Kirk, in memory of Robert “Bob” Kirk and MEC Contractors - Engineers; Cave of Wonders-level sponsors: The Broome Law Firm, P.A. / Chris and Kelley Broome, Dr. Frank and Marilyn Dienst Medical Services LLC, Chris and Lisa McAlpine, and Christine Sylvester; Magic Lamp-level sponsors: Steve and Winnie Brewer, LHC Group / Parrish Home Health, Jaime and Melissa Lugo, Jeanne Dorothy Miller, Jo Lynn Nelson and Roy Roberts, Turmy and Oscar Sieveking, Barbara and Terry Terhune, and W & J Construction Corporation; and Diamond in the Rough-level sponsors: Dr. and Mrs. Brent Brandon and VITAS Healthcare. In-kind media sponsor: Brevard Business News. Other generous sponsors will be recognized at the gala.

Individual gala tickets are available for $125 and sponsorship opportunities start at $500. For more information about sponsorship packages, or to purchase general admission and chance-drawing tickets, please contact Jess Parrish Medical Foundation at 321-269-4066 or visit parrishmedfoundation.com/gala. Space is limited.

Aquatic therapy scheduled for a splashy debut at Parrish Healthcare

“Aquatic therapy is a lot gentler on joints,” said Parrish Healthcare Terri Moccio, Doctor of Physical Therapy. “Water provides older adults more confidence to move and is less strenuous and painful on joints for those with orthopedic conditions. Physical therapists work closely with each patient to create goals and customize a program to help people increase their mobility, flexibility, balance and to get back to enjoying their lives.”

Physical therapy is prescribed by primary care or orthopedic physicians, and is helpful for a variety of age groups. To learn more about how aquatic therapy can benefit a patient regardless of age or condition, and the programs available beginning July 5, please contact 321-268-6181 or visit the Parrish website at www.parrishhealthcare.com/rehabilitation. Referrals can be faxed to 321-268-6769.

Global leader in laboratory standards of excellence reaccredits Parrish Medical Center

“Parrish Medical Center’s Laboratory demonstrates leadership, innovation, and a passionate commitment to standards of excellence while providing the highest quality services, ultimately for patients,” said Richard M. Scanlan, MD, FCAP, chair of the CAP’s Council on Accreditation.

Parrish’s reaccreditation followed an on-site evaluation by CAP inspectors. The CAP accreditation process is designed to rigorously ensure the highest standard of care. Backed by the scientific expertise of board-certified pathologists, inspectors review a laboratory’s records and quality control procedures for the preceding two years.

“We have an outstanding team of professionals in our lab and this achievement validates that fact,” said Pedro Carmona, MD, Parrish Medical Center Chief of Pathology. Whether it is a routine or highly-specialized test performed in our lab, we know that patients and their providers expect quality, accurate and timely results and that is what drives us to excellence every day.”

A commonly undiagnosed sleep condition is killing Brevard County residents; Parrish Healthcare first in Brevard County to receive certification in new treatment for sleep disorder

The problem: a disorder called sleep apnea, which affects a person’s breathing while sleeping. Eight-in-10 of the people with these disorders are unaware of their condition and its effect on their lives. Parrish Healthcare’s Sleep Disorder Center is Brevard County’s first to earn the certification of all staff members to provide care for patients with Inspire Implants, one of the world’s most advanced sleep apnea treatments.

“In Titusville there are over 8,000 men and women heading to work, going grocery shopping, playing with their children and going about their daily lives completely unaware they have a medical condition capable of killing them,” said Michele Roberge, RT(R), RPSGT, CCSH, Sleep Center Supervisor. For each of these individuals, their breathing is betraying their body, slowly damaging their brain and other major organs including their heart.

Sleep Apnea is a serious condition more common than asthma, in which a person repeatedly stops and starts breathing while sleeping. The number of times someone with sleep apnea may stop breathing can range widely, from as low as five times an hour up to 100 times. Each interruption can last from 10 seconds to more than a minute. Left undiagnosed and untreated, repeated sleep apnea causes such serious issues as heart disease, high blood pressure, depression and puts individuals at a much higher risk for stroke.

“Thankfully, multiple treatment options exist for this condition,” said Roberge. “We have treated sleep apnea successfully for years with use of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines. In a new development, our center is the first in Brevard County to have all staff certified by Inspire to provide patients with the care needed following the implant, one of the world’s most advanced treatments for sleep apnea. Inspire works inside of your body by delivering mild stimulation to key airway muscles allowing them to remain open during sleep. The staff at the Sleep Disorder Center is able to answer questions, perform evaluations and offer solutions based on individual needs.”

Symptoms of sleep apnea include:

• Loud snoring
• Gasping for air during sleep
• Awakening with a dry mouth
• Excessive daytime sleepiness (hypersomnia)
• Difficulty staying asleep (insomnia)
• Difficulty paying attention while awake
• Morning headache
• Irritability

For more information about how to find out about your risk for sleep apnea, contact The Parrish Healthcare Sleep Center at (321) 268-6408 or email sleep@parrishmed.com.

Parrish Healthcare Releases Community Support Groups Schedule for June

• When: Tuesday, June 21, 2-4 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, please click HERE

Caring for Caregivers Support Group
Care giving is a rewarding, yet demanding labor of love. Join us to learn how to care for yourself while you care for your loved one.

• When: Thursdays, June 9 and 23, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, please click HERE

Fearless Café
A collaboration with St. Francis Reflections Life Stages Care, this group shares a casual discussion about advanced directives, power of attorney, wills, living wills and all of the often, scary conversations about death and dying.

• When: Wednesday, June 1, 10-11 a.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Janet Rooks, MA, CDP
• For additional information, please contact Janet Rooks at 321-268-6800.
• To register, please click HERE

Cancer and Survivor Support Group
This group is for cancer patients, cancer survivors and anyone touched by the disease. Enjoy refreshments and talk with others sharing similar situations and experiences.

• When: Wednesday, June 15, 4-5:30 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Shannon Luker, RN, BSN, OCN, CBCN
• For additional information, please contact Shannon Luker at 321-268-6111, ext. 3544.
• To register, please click HERE

Moms Support Group
Free support group for mothers with babies ages birth to six months. During this class, moms will be able to discuss topics such as infant feeding, sleeping, milestones, car seats, play, development, post-partum care, birth control, post-partum depression, dietary needs and much more. Space is limited.

• When: Mondays, June 6, 13, 20 and 27, 10-11 a.m.
• Where: The Children’s Center, 5650 S. Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Teri Newman, MSN, RNC-MNN, IBCLC
• For additional information and to register, contact Teri Newman atteri.newman@parrishmed.com.

A.W.A.K.E Sleep Support
This group is dedicated to exchanging information and increasing awareness of sleep, sleeping disorders, and related health concerns. Everyone with an interest in sleep and health is encouraged to attend.

• When: Wednesday, June 29. 6-7:30 p.m.
• Where: Heritage Hall, 931 N Washington Ave., Titusville
• Facilitated by Michele Roberge, RT(R), RPSGT
• For additional information, please contact Michele Roberge at 321-268-6408.
• To register, please click HERE

Parrish Early Care & Education Program Celebrates VPK Class of 2022

Titusville, FL: Parrish Early Care and Education, a program of Parrish Healthcare’s Children’s Center sent the class of 2022 off in style at their VPK graduation held on May 20, 2022.

“We are so proud of these children” said Vaneesha Greco, Center Manager. “Our team works closely with our families to create a learning environment that helps each child grow and thrive. Today is the culmination of their hard work and evidence of the passion our educators have for enriching the lives of our littlest learners” said Greco.

The well attended ceremony took place at First United Methodist Church in Titusville and hosted 17 VPK graduates along with their families and other guests. “These children are the future of our community” said Kathy Bradley, VPK Teacher at The Children’s Center. “They are the next generation of thinkers, builders, teachers and healers. It is always an emotional day to see them progress on their journey to Kindergarten.”

The ceremony included the traditional parade of graduates, a special selection of songs performed by the class of 2022 and ended on the high note of the official presentation of diplomas.

For more information on services provided by The Children’s Center please visit their website or call 321-264-0855.

Parrish Healthcare Implements Innovative Program to Provide Healing to those Suffering from Addiction

For people on the ever-challenging path of recovery from mental health diagnosis or addictions, their Parrish Healthcare “guides” – members of Parrish’s Peer Recovery Specialist (PRS) Network - are valuable members of a team of caregivers working together to help people in crisis reclaim their lives and return them to their families.

“The path to recovery is made easier when a person walking it knows they’re not alone, and that with them is someone who has shared experiences and has recovered from them,” said Lara Chicone, LCSW Parrish Healthcare behavioral health navigator and peer recovery program coordinator.

“Our mission at Parrish is ‘healing experiences for everyone all the time,” Chicone added. “The Peer Recovery Specialist Network is an extraordinarily valuable help for people who are searching for a way out of the situation in which they find themselves.”

Born from a Parrish Community Health Partnership and Circles of Care collaboration, the PRS network members are specially trained to use experience, knowledge, and care to help others overcome what team members have faced.

A case study: an individual in their late 50’s who had worked all their life with their hands, developed severe joint pain and couldn’t continue doing the work they love. Subsequently diagnosed with depression and bipolar disorder, this person experimented with cocaine. Having opened that door, what followed was a descent into heroin, fentanyl and methamphetamine addiction. In just one year, this individual suffered several overdoses resulting in hospitalizations: two were within 24 hours of each other. Death was a distinct possibility.

Despite several attempts at rehabilitation, sobriety remained elusive. The individual was referred to Parrish’s Peer Recovery Specialist Program. Though initially declining services, they received education, support and encouragement – and an awareness of the peer recovery program. After an overdose nearly resulted in death and another overdose killed a close friend, this person engaged with the peer recovery team. As of this moment, it’s the longest period of recovery this individual has experienced.

Mental health and addiction disorders impact 47% of the North Brevard Community and represents one of the top social determinants of health priorities according the Community Health Needs Assessment conducted by Parrish Healthcare. In fact, the CDC recently released a report that states 2021 was a record year for overdose deaths with an estimated 107,622, an increase of 15% from the previous year.

Behind every statistic, there’s a face, a name, and a story. Most people undergoing these trials don’t want to be in them. In cases of addiction, it is often a gradual yet unrelenting decline until they find themselves in a position they can’t get out of. That was true in this person’s case, and as an organization, it’s wonderful to be standing beside this individual in this fight, a fight that’s being won.

Mental health conditions present a different set of priorities and approaches. However, whether it’s mental health or addiction, the goal is the same: recovery.

“As a society, community and as human beings, we must work together to provide compassionate care and services to reduce the amount of deaths and suffering that addiction causes” said Chicone. “Together, Parrish Medical Center and Circles of Care are using the Peer Recovery Specialist program on our mission to healing and saving lives. It can be a long road, and there are no guarantees. But we are seeing lives change all of the time.”

Jess Parrish Medical Foundation and Parrish Medical Center Auxiliary Award Scholarships for Study in Healthcare and Medicine

This year’s scholarship winners include, from Astronaut High School, Shamere Harvey, Jonna-Marie Kirk, Alexis Mills, Isabella Padgett, Taylor Rendina, and Brenna Row; Merritt Island Christian School awardee Sydney VanHorn; and Space Coast Junior/Senior High School recipient ShaMar Washington.

College students awarded scholarships include, Cindy Sluka, Daytona State College; Maryah McCarthy and Kayla Ouellette from Eastern Florida State College; Brooke Kelleher, Florida Gulf Coast University; Kenzington Allender and Sarah Lee Curtis, Florida State University; Julia Simonsen, University of Central Florida; Paige Murrill, University of Florida; Gabriella Lloyd, University of North Carolina; and Joshalyn Butler from the University of North Florida.

Scholarship committee chair Barbara Terhune led the committee through the process of evaluating applicants in the areas of academic performance, awards and honors, extracurricular activities, leadership, community service and work experience, recommendation letters, application essay and PMC/JPMF affiliation.

“The Foundation is honored to support such well-deserving and exceptional students. Our congratulations to all the awardees as they take the next step forward in their academic careers and lead the next generation in shaping the future of healthcare,” said Matthew Morak, JPMF Director. “I would also like to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Philip Simpson, Barbara and Terry Terhune, and Bill and Rachel Terry for their generous scholarship gifts which allowed for additional students to be awarded.”

Committee members include Santi Bulnes; Deborah Cox; Terry Lee; Josh Norris; Howard Rinker, DDS; Natalie Sellers; Philip Simpson, PhD; and Barbara Terhune, committee chair.

JPMF is investing in the future by awarding medical scholarships to residents in North Brevard County who are pursuing careers that one day will provide healing to our community. To learn more about JPMF/PMC scholarships, visit www.parrishmedfoundation.com/scholarships.

Parrish Healthcare Hosts Stroke & Heart Attack Survivors Support Group

The weight of surviving a sudden traumatic health event such as a heart attack or stroke is more easily borne when others are helping you to carry the emotional load. That’s the benefit of support groups like Parrish Healthcare’s Stroke & Heart Survivors support group— members benefit from sharing experiences and knowing that they are not alone.

“These groups can be life-changing,” said Parrish Healthcare Social Worker Janet Rooks, who leads the group. “I’ve seen many situations in which people who were reluctant or hesitant to participate found themselves learning important new ways to help them live better lives and making friends with others going through similar situations.”

Rooks holds a bachelor's of social work degree and a master’s degree in counseling. Rooks facilitates several support groups and is the coordinator for popular senior educational programs for Parrish Healthcare. “Support group members gain much from our sessions; all that’s necessary to take advantage of a support group is to come to the meetings,” added Rooks.

For more information, visit the Stroke & Heart Survivors support group page here.

Parrish Healthcare earns global recognition as a High Reliability Organization Champion At the 2022 World Patient Safety, Science & Technology Summit

Recognized at the 2022 World Patient Safety, Science & Technology Summit (WPSSTS) held April 29-30, 2022, Parrish Healthcare was one of five of global hospitals and health systems affiliated with PSMF recognized as HRO Champions.

The PSMF gives their recognition to hospitals and healthcare organizations who demonstrate transparency around patient safety data and who have made their own commitments to reach the Patient Safety Movement Foundation’s vision of ZERO preventable harm and death across the globe by 2030.

“We are honored to be designated an HRO Champion by the Patient Safety Movement Foundation,” said George Mikitarian, CEO of Parrish Healthcare, “We believe that sharing patient safety data outside of our organizational walls will help advance patient safety around the world.”

The 2022 WPSSTS was co-convened by the American Society of Anesthesiologists, the European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, the International Society for Quality in Health Care and the World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists. The summit served a forum to celebrate the Patient Safety Movement Foundation’s first 10 years of achievements and to confront leading patient safety issues with actionable ideas and innovations to transform the continuum of care by dramatically improving patient safety and eliminating preventable patient harm and death.

Parrish Healthcare has been affiliated with the PSMF since 2015 and has earned a number of recognitions from them including the first to earn PSMF five-star hospital ranking and being the first hospital to commit to all PSMF Actionable Patient Safety Solutions.

Virtual acceptance of Parrish Healthcare’s HRO Champion award can be found here.

Jess Parrish Medical Foundation Golf Classic Exceeds Fundraising Goal with Sell-Out Crowd

The law firm of Zumpano Patricios presented the 18-hole scramble. JPMF hosted another sell-out crowd at this year’s tournament and exceeded its fundraising goal of $70,000, raising more than $75,000 to benefit The Children’s Center (TCC), a service of Parrish Healthcare, and one-stop childhood development resource center. TCC provides a safe and healing environment for special needs and typically developing children to learn and grow, along with an array of health, education and human services under one roof.

The annual golf tournament lives on as a tribute to Fran Gerrett’s longtime dedication to our community and his favorite charity, The Children’s Center. Fran, a former Parrish Medical Center Materials Management Director, was famous for saying, “It’s all about the kids!”

“The continued outpouring of community and volunteer support for the tournament, The Children’s Center and honoring my father’s legacy is humbling,” stated Leigh Spradling, Fran’s daughter and tournament committee member. “On behalf of our family, I would like to extend our thanks to the sponsors, committee, volunteers, course partners and everyone that played a role in the extraordinary success of the event. As my dad always said, “it’s for the kids!”

Event partners included Presenting sponsor Zumpano Patricios. Platinum-level sponsor HHS; and Gold-level sponsors were MedFast Urgent Care Centers; PuroClean Disaster Services; and Indian River Wealth Management Group at UBS Wealth Management USA/Susan Morse and Dan Levy. Silver-level sponsors included MIS-Medical Imaging Solutions and Regions Bank. Bronze-level sponsors were Anderson Financial Partners, Inc.; Certified Plumbing of Brevard, Inc.; Coastal Health Systems of Brevard, The Coleman Group – Merrill; CP Rankin Inc. Roofing Experts, CSI Leasing, Inc.; Green Air Environmental of Central Florida, Pure Bliss Spa; Howard W. Rinker, D.D.S.; Christine Sylvester; Termine’s Specialty Supply of Melbourne; Bill and Rachel Terry; and The Watauga Company. Supporting-level sponsors included Atlantic Business Systems; BCER Engineering; The Broome Law Firm/Chris & Kelley Broome; Carmona Pathology Associates, P.A.; Herman and Joyce Cole; DePrince, Race & Zollo; Florida Cardiovascular Association; Florida Health Care Plans; George and Barbara Gee; Mary Haddad-Mauzy Coldwell Banker Coast Realty; MEC General Contractors; The Mikitarian Family; NexAir, LLC; Palm Point Behavioral Health; Bryan Parry, MD Orthopedics; Ron Norris Buick, GMC, Honda, Ford; Service One of Brevard LLC; Greg and Kathy Sparkman & Allen and Diane Taylor Families; Spectrum Reach; Terry and Barbara Terhune; WFTV – WRDQ; and W&J construction Corporation. Par-Tee-level sponsors were PuroClean Disaster Services; Space Coast Credit Union; System Tech Services, Inc.; and St. Francis Reflections Lifestage Care. The breakfast sponsor was Firehouse Subs at Titus landing. In-kind sponsors included Aquarina Golf Inc.; Backcast Charters; Brevard County Sheriff’s Office; Café Paradiso; Dixie Crossroads Restaurant; Dogs ‘R’ Us; Duran Golf Club; Durango’s Steakhouse; el Leoncito Cuban & Mexican Restaurant; Vaneesha Greco; Hoffman’s Table; Indian River Preserve Golf Club; Island Guys Detailing; Moon Golf; Orleans Bistro; Paradise Grille; Parrish Health & Fitness; Pier 220; Playalinda Brewing; Publix Supermarkets; Regions Bank; River Lanes; Leigh Spradling; The Great Outdoors; The Blue Heron Restaurant; Total Wine; and World of Golf Hall of Fame. Other generous sponsors were recognized at the tournament.

“We are overjoyed by the tremendous support we received this year, and are thrilled to have so many organizations and community partners joining us to make a difference in the vital work of The Children’s Center,” said Greg Sparkman, tournament co-chair.

Taking home top honors were the men’s division first-place teams of Todd Denson, Tim Fields, Mike Pavick and Jason Snodgrass at Indian River Preserve Golf Club and Jack Burke, Tim Heath, Greg Messer and Joe Porta at The Great Outdoors. The mixed division first-place teams included players Billy Dortin, Tish Holley, Jason Holley and John Palmer at Indian River Preserve and Amanda Cole, Chris Cole, Herman Cole and Joyce Cole at The Great Outdoors. The foursome of Patricia McCarrick, Vivian Miller, Greta Moran and Terri Samaniego took top women’s division honors at Indian River Preserve.

Kathy Myer and Greg Sparkman, event co-chairs, led the tournament planning committee members that include Santi Bulnes, Amy Craddock, Anita Currie, Jeff Riley, Kathy Simonsen, Leigh Spradling, Kristina Weaver and Suzanne Yarbrough.

For more information about Jess Parrish Medical Foundation, or to secure your 2023 event partnership today, please call Jess Parrish Medical Foundation at (321) 269-4066 or visit www.parrishmedfoundation.com/golf.

Parrish Medical Group Welcomes Orthopedic Surgeon Bryan Parry, MD

Dr. Bryan Parry

Dr. Parry earned his medical degree from Pennsylvania State University in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Following his studies, Dr. Parry completed an orthopedic residency at Hamot Medical Center in Erie, Pennsylvania. Before relocating to Brevard County in 2012, Dr. Parry spent 15 years in Atlanta, GA, providing medical care in Walton, Barrow and Newton County.

Residing in the Brevard area for 10 years, Dr. Parry has become an involved member of the local community. As an avid distance runner, he enjoys volunteering as the Medical Director for large local races such as the Space Coast Marathon. Dr. Parry is excited to join the Parrish Medical Group team and provide timely acute orthopedic care to patients of the North Brevard community.

Parrish Medical Group and Dr. Parry are now accepting new patients. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Parry, call 321-433-2247 or visit parrishhealthcare.com/Parry

Parrish Medical Center Primary Stroke Center Re-certified by The Joint Commission
PMC recognized for continuous stroke treatment excellence

PMC’s recertification as a Primary Stroke Center extends its first-in-Brevard County achievement for area patients endangered by stroke’s potentially debilitating effects.

“Primary Stroke Center Certification recognizes health care organizations committed to fostering continuous quality improvement in patient safety and quality of care,” says Mark Pelletier, RN, MS, chief operating officer, Accreditation and Certification Operations, and chief nursing executive, The Joint Commission. “We commend Parrish Medical Center for using certification to reduce variation in its clinical processes and to strengthen its program structure and management framework for stroke patients.”

Stroke is a leading cause of death in Florida. Growing research shows, however, that stroke patients' outcomes can be significantly improved when they receive treatment from an organized stroke system of care.

“The Joint Commission established the Primary Stroke Center program to set a care standard to protect and saves lives,” said George Mikitarian, PMC president & CEO. “Meeting that standard takes tremendous commitment, resources, and work, but we have long dedicated ourselves to providing the highest levels of patient safety, clinical quality, and healing patient experiences on behalf of the people and communities we serve.”

“This Joint Commission’s Gold Seal affirmation of PMC’s quality stroke care means that patients and families can have confidence in the objective measurement, accomplishment, and results, of PMC’s treatment program,” Mikitarian added.

In 2010, PMC became the first hospital in Florida to participate in the Mayo Clinic telestroke program. Via a remote presence robot that stands five feet tall, neurologists at Mayo Clinic’s Comprehensive Stroke Center in Jacksonville can remotely evaluate acute stroke patients and assist with diagnosis and treatment.

“Quick administration of a drug called tPA to dissolve a stroke-causing blood clot and restore blood flow is part of The Joint Commission’s standards followed by PMC”, said Gregory P. Cuculino, MD, FACEP, emergency department medical director.

“In many cases the drug results in the patient having minimal or no neurological damage from the stroke,” said Dr. Cuculino, “It’s one aspect of our approach to stroke care, which includes prevention, treatment and rehabilitation while always working as a team.”

Hospitals began to apply voluntarily for PSC certification from the Joint Commission in 2003 in response to proposed organized stroke system of care by the Brain Attack Coalition in 2000. The proposed stroke system of care promotes EMS routing acute patients to Primary Stroke Centers (PSCs), and Comprehensive Stroke Centers able to provide proven stroke care reliably and rapidly.

In 2004 PMC became the first health system in Brevard and third in the state of Florida to earn The Joint Commission’s PSC certification. And, every two years since 2004, The Joint Commission has evaluated and recertified PMC’s PSC. The most recent evaluation, in 2020, resulted in the latest recertification.

Effective July 1, 2019, Senate Bill 1460 mandated hospitals to be stroke certified by a nationally recognized certifying organization that is approved by AHCA by July 1, 2021. The Joint Commission PSC certification meets this requirement.