Programs Listing
Education Programs, Events and Screenings
Backus Hospital Safety Camp
• Saturday, May 16
• 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Backus Hospital parking lot, outside the Medical Office Building entrance
Program free; no registration required. For more information, call Fred Potter at 889-8331, ext. 4455.
Beginning and Continuing Yoga with Michele Flowers
Classes incorporate stretching, movement, and attention to the breath to relax the body, improve flexibility, calm the mind and enhance inner awareness. Suitable for beginners, those with physical limitations and continuing students. Walk-ins welcome, $14/class walk-in fee, based on space availability. These are the last three classes in a six-week series.
• Mondays, June 1, 8, 15*
• 6 - 7:15 p.m.
• Classes will be held at Beth Jacob Synagogue, 400 New London Tpk., Norwich (*the first and second classes will be held at the Backus entry level conference rooms. Note: There are no May classes)
There is a $66 fee for this six-week series and registration is required. Call CHI at 425-3877 for more information.
Beginning and Continuing Yoga with Sandy Hartnett
Classes incorporate stretching, movement, and attention to the breath to relax the body, improve flexibility, calm the mind and enhance inner awareness. Suitable for beginners, those with physical limitations as well as continuing students. Walk-ins are welcome, $14/class, based on space availability. These are the last four classes in a six-week series.
• Thursdays, May 7, 14, 21, 28
• 5 - 6:15 p.m.
• Otis Library, 261 Main St., Norwich
There is a $66 fee for the six-week series and registration is required. Call CHI at 425-3877 for more information.
Diabetes Outpatient Self-Management Program
This program includes an initial assessment by Certified Diabetes Educators, a Registered Nurse and a Clinical Dietitian. There are four, two-hour group classes which address all of the required components of Self Management of Diabetes. Participants are contacted three to six months after completion of the program to assess the attainment of individual objectives. The program is offered every month with day and evening sessions available. The focus of this program is to provide individuals, families and significant others the opportunity to gain a greater understanding of the components of self-care management. Health Care Provider Referral is required. Family members or significant others are encouraged to attend. This service is free of charge to the community. You may contact the Diabetes Center for more information by calling 892-6906 and selecting the Patient Education Classes prompt.
There is a fee for this program and registration is required. Call 892-6906 for more information.
Free Community Blood pressure Screening
Free blood pressure screening on the third Wednesday of each month.
• Wednesday, May 20
• 1 - 2 p.m.
• Entry level conference room 3
Program free; no registration required.
Griswold Youth and Family Services "Youthtopia"
A nurse from the Nursing and Community Health Education Department will be on the Mobile Health Resource Center van presenting info on "Smoking Stinks" and encouraging kids to "Take the Backus NO SMOKING Pledge."
• Saturday, May 30
• 10:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
• Memorial Veterans Park on Ashland St. in Jewett City
Program free; no registration required.
Head to Toe Health Talk: "Exercise is Fun, and Saves Gas, Too!"
Geoff Fabry, a physical therapist on the Backus Hospital staff, will present an informative, interactive program on all aspects of exercise and safety. A question and answer period will follow the presentation.
• Thursday, May 14
• 6:30 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital entry level conference rooms
Program free but registration required. Call 823-6313 for more information.
Healing Touch Level I
Healing Touch is a relaxing, nurturing energy therapy that assists in balancing your physical, mental and emotional well-being. Healing Touch works with your energy field to support your natural ability to heal. You will learn many basic techniques to reduce stress and anxiety, decrease pain, and aid the promotion of wound healing.
• Saturday, May 30
• 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
• Sunday, May 31
• 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Entry Level Conference Rooms
There is a $275 fee for this program and registration is required. Call Kathy Noyes, R.N., CHTP, at 886-1960 for more information.
Initiation into Manhood; A Workshop for Men with Paul Dunion
We can understand life as offering us challenges and opportunities that initiate us into ever deepening levels of maturity. This workshop explores the stages of initiation and what may be necessary in order to make a successful passage at each stage. The evening is an exploration of characteristics reflective of the initiated male.
• Friday, May 1
• 7 - 9 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich
There is a $25 fee for this program and registration is required. Call CHI at 425-3877 for more information.
Mammograms and Pap Smear Screenings
This program is free to women with no health insurance or whose insurance does not cover these services. Mammograms are provided through Backus Hospital and their satellite mammography sites. Pap smears and clinical breast exams are offered through a selection of Backus affiliated physician groups or clinics. This is an ongoing free program but eligibility determination and registration is required.
Call Joyce Kuusela, Case Manager, at 823-6318 for more information.
Meditation for Everyone
Meditation can help you deal with stress and pain and can be part of treatment for conditions including hypertension and heart disease. Come quiet your mind and body, release the stress of your day and enter stillness, clarity, and peace. Instructor: Marie Perez. These are the last three classes of a six week series.
• Wednesdays, May 6, 13, 20
• 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
• Backus Center for Healthcare Integration (CHI), 115 Lafayette St. (across the street from the hospital).
There is a $60 fee for the six-week series and registration is required. Call CHI at 425-3877 for more information.
Pink Fair - A Health and Wellness Fair for Women
Participate in free screenings and learn about the latest treatment options and advancements in healthcare technology. Explore homeopathic medicine, and complementary therapies, and get the latest nutrition and diet information from the Backus clinicians and dietitians. Also available - important access to care information for women and families. A special luminaria ceremony will take place at 6:30 p.m., in honor of those who have battled breast cancer.
• Thursday, May 7
• 3 - 7 p.m.
• Backus Entry Level Conference Rooms
Program free; no registration required.
Prepare for Surgery, Heal Faster
Using Guided Imagery and relaxation helps people feel calmer before surgery, have less pain after surgery and recover more quickly. The techniques are also helpful for many other procedures to help lessen anxiety. The patient will receive a book and CD or tape and take one 90-minute instructional class. Ideally the class is taken 1-3 weeks prior to surgery. Classes are offered each Monday and Wednesday. A friend or family member may accompany the patient.
• Monday, May 18
• 5 - 6:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Surgical Services family room
• Wednesdays, May 13, 20, 27
• 2 - 3:30 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich
There is $30 (tape and book) or $35 (CD and book) fee for this program and registration is required. Call CHI at 425-3877 for more information.
Psychiatric Department Lectures
Monthly lectures on psychiatric trends and topics. Usually held on the fourth Thursday of every month.
• Thursday, May 28
• 3 - 4:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital entry level conference rooms 1-2
Program free; no registration required.
Reiki: Level III Master Training
The Master Class will include the complete Usui/Tibetan Reiki system, receiving the healing and master attunements and instruction and practice in giving all attunements, introduction to two Tibetan symbols, and the advanced Reiki meditation, as well as follow-up guidance from the Reiki master. Prerequisite: Advanced Reiki Training. Instructor: Marie Perez, Reiki Master.
• Saturday, May 2; Sunday, May 3
• 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich
There is a $500 fee for the two day program and registration is required. Call CHI at 425-3877 for more information.
Sail Through Surgery
A pre-op program for children, ages 18 and under, and their parents, to help prepare for an upcoming surgery.
• Friday, May 1
• 4 - 4:30 p.m.
• Saturday, May 16
• 10 - 10:30 a.m.
• Backus Hospital Same Day Surgery waiting area
Program free but registration required. Call 823-6328 for more information.
Tai Chi
A combination of martial arts and meditation in motion. The many health benefits include increased balance, circulation, coordination, flexibility, and mental clarity. Suitable for beginners, those with physical limitations, as well as continuing students. Instructor: David Chandler. Walk-ins are welcome to the first and second classes, $15/class, based on space availability. These are the last four classes of an eight-week series. A new series will begin in June.
• Tuesdays, May 5, 12, 19, 26
• 6:30 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich
There is a $120 for the eight-week series and registration is required. Call CHI at 425-3877 for more information.
Thin's In
This acclaimed weight reduction program will give you the tools you need to lose weight and maintain healthy eating habits. Come learn the importance of combining proper portions within the five food groups for nutritious and healthy eating. Thin's In combines balanced eating, exercise and behavior modification, which will leave you feeling satisfied and healthy. Instructor: Dianne Rubin. These are the last four classes in a ten-week series. A new series will begin in June.
• Mondays, May 4, 11, 18; June 1
• 4:30 - 5:15 p.m. (4 - 4:30 p.m. weigh in)
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich
• Monday, May 4, 11, 18; June 1
• 6:30 - 7:15 p.m. (6 - 6:30 p.m. weigh in)
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich
There is $130 fee for this 10-week program and registration is required. Call CHI at 425-3877 for more information.
Total Care Program (joint replacement)
• Wednesdays, May 6, 13, 20, 27
• 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich.
Program free; no registration required. Call Cheryl Martel at 892-6963 for more information.
Total Care Program (spinal fusion)
Backus patients scheduled for surgery can learn what to expect from spinal fusion surgery - preparatory measures, the procedure, rehabilitation, and other issues.
• Wednesdays, May 6, 13, 20, 27
• 9 - 11 a.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich
Program free but registration required. Call 892-6963 for more information.
Childbirth and Infant Care
Breast-feeding Preparation Class
Learn breast-feeding tips for success. This class is for expectant women.
• Thursday, May 7
• 6 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center conference room
Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Childbirth Preparation Classes (weekend)
A two-day weekend class. Register early, includes continental breakfast.
• Saturday, May 16; Sunday, May 17
• 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital entry level conference rooms 1-2
There is a $55 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Childbirth Refresher Class
A one-evening class taught by a certified instructor for couples who have had an infant less than three years ago.
• Wednesday, May 13
• 7 - 9 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center
There is a $55 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Dr. Dad
Designed for the expectant or new father. Information on steps to prepare your home for your new baby. This interactive resource is meant to help you be a great dad now and in the years to come. Class will include information on the Well Child, Sick Child, Injured Child and Safe Child.
• Tuesdays, June 2, 9, 16, 23
• 6 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital E-2 conference room
Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Expectant Grandparent Seminar
Designed to bring expectant grandparents up to date with: roles of grandparents; current information about pregnancy and childbirth; breastfeeding and bottle feeding; home safety for babies and toddlers; variations in the newborn; baby care; and questions and answers.
• Wednesday, July 15
• 7 - 9 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center
Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Happiest Baby on the Block
Would you like to learn how to calm your new baby's cries ... in minutes? Learn why your baby is crying and how to turn on the calming reflex so that your baby can be happy and sleep longer. This two-hour class includes the information you need to help your baby and a parent kit for use at home. May be taken while pregnant or in the first weeks at home.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center
There is a $50 per couple fee for this program and registration is required. Call Andrea at 860-917-9110 or e-mail andrea@naturallovingembrace.com for more information.
HypnoBirthing Class
Learn how to break the fear-tension-pain cycle. Complete childbirth education series using hypnosis, relaxation, visualization and education to have a more comfortable, satisfying birth. Available Monday evenings or weekends.
• Mondays, June 1, 8, 15, 22
• 6 - 9 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center
• Weekends July 11, 12, 18, 19
• 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center
There is a $300 fee for this program and registration is required. Call Andrea at 860-917-9110 or e-mail andrea@naturallovingembrace.com for more information.
Infant Massage
Five-week sessions offering techniques for infant massage and relaxation at Backus Hospital. Pro-rated for those who join mid-session.
There is a $70 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 860-564-4753 for more information.
Infant-Child CPR
A Backus Birthing Center program for parents and parents-to-be in the instruction of CPR for infants and children. Instructor is certified in CPR. Classes are limited to eight people per session.
• Thursday, June 11
• 6 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center
There is a $35 per couple or $20 per person fee for this program and registration is required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Labor Comforts
A three-hour class to learn labor support techniques to maximize your comfort and relaxation in labor.
• Monday, May 18
• 6 - 9 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center
There is a $65 fee for this program and registration is required. Call Andrea at 860-917-9110 or e-mail andrea@naturallovingembrace.com for more information.
Nurturing Your Newborn - An Infant Care Class
This two-hour class teaches normal newborn behavior, tests and procedures in the hospital, and how to care for your baby in the first few days at home. Topics include: safe sleep, swaddling, bath demonstration, feeding, newborn appearance and behaviors and when to call the doctor.
• Thursday, May 21
• 7 - 9 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center conference room
Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail MOC@wwbh.org for more information.
Parents to Be Open House
Informational session and a tour of the Birthing Center. Speakers include OB doctor, midwife, Neonatal practitioner, pediatrician, lactation consultant, birth registry/paternity and various other educational materials available. Tours start at 6:15 p.m. from the main lobby. Speakers will start at 7 p.m. Refreshments will be served.
• Tuesday, May 12
• 6:15 - 9 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Entry Level conference rooms 2-3
Program free but registration required. Call Elaine at 823-6517 for more information.
Sibling Class
This one-day class helps big brother or sister, ages 3-6, prepare for the new addition. Tours of the Birthing Center are included and participants have the chance to see a newborn.
• Wednesday, May 13
• 10 - 11 a.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center
• Sunday, May 3
• 2 - 3 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center
Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Signing Safari Parent Workshops
Learn the benefits of using American Sign Language with your hearing baby. Decrease fussiness while improving communication and have fun at the same time. This two-hour class teaches common signs that you will use with your baby or toddler. Also includes DVD and Pictionary of over 100 signs.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center
There is a $50 per couple fee for this program and registration is required. Call Andrea at 860-917-9110 or e-mail andrea@naturallovingembrace.com for more information.
Teen Birthing
A two-evening childbirth preparation class to prepare adolescent couples for labor and delivery. Call for confirmation.
• Tuesdays, May 5, 12
• 4:30 - 7 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center
There is a $10 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Clinics and Services
Amputee Clinic
For new amputees or amputees considering a new prosthesis. Usually held the first Tuesday of the month. Individualized sessions.
• Tuesday, May 5
• 1 - 3 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich
Program free but registration required. Call 823-6317 for more information.
Backus Car Seat Clinic
• Fridays, May 1, 15
• 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
• Norwich Fire Department
Program free but registration required. Call 442-0733 for more information.
HIV Education and Testing Site
Program free but registration required. Call 823-6343 for more information.
Relaxation and Restoration
Backus Hospital's Center for Healthcare Integration (CHI) offers Acupuncture, Healing Touch, Therapeutic Massage (Swedish, Deep Tissue, and Hot Stone Therapy), Reflexology and Reiki sessions to the community by hospital-credentialed therapists. No referral is needed.
There is a fee for this program and registration is required. Call 425-3877 to schedule an appointment or for more information.
Sexually Transmitted Disease Clinic
Diagnosis and treatment of most sexually transmitted diseases; HIV and Hepatitis C testing is available on Mondays and Wednesdays, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m., at 107 Lafayette St., Norwich. No appointment needed. No new registrations accepted after 7 p.m. The clinic will be closed on Monday, May 25, for the Memorial Day holiday.
Program free; no registration required. Call 823-6344 for more information.
Support Groups
Brain Injury Support Group
For persons who have experienced a brain injury, and for their families and friends. Usually held on the first Thursday of the month.
• Thursday, May 7
• 1 - 2:30 p.m.
• Backus Medical Office Building Radiation Therapy conference room
Program free; no registration required. Call 889-8331, ext. 4060, for more information.
Breast Cancer Support Group
For breast cancer patients and their families, sponsored by Backus Hospital and ECHO. Usually held on the third Tuesday of each month.
• Tuesday, May 19
• 7 - 8:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Medical Office Building Radiation Therapy waiting room
Program free; no registration required. Call 892-2777 for more information.
Cancer Support Group
• Tuesday, May 12
• noon - 1 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Medical Office Building conference room
Program free but registration required as lunch will be provided. Call 892-2777 for more information.
Diabetes Support Group
The Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism offers a Day Diabetes Support Group, usually held on the first Tuesday of every other month. The evening support group is usually offered every other month on the first Wednesday. This offering is perfect for individuals who would like to share information and learn from others with diabetes.
• Tuesday, May 5
• 10 - 11 a.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich
Program free but registration required. Call 892-6906 and leave a message on the Diabetes Patient Education line for more information.
Eastern Connecticut Celiac Support Group
Do you have Celiac Disease or are you unable to tolerate gluten in your diet? Usually held the fourth Thursday of the month.
• Thursday, May 28
• 6:30 p.m.
• Entry level conference rooms 1-2
Program free but registration required. Call 889-7776 for more information.
Head and Neck Cancer Support Group
For cancer patients, survivors and caregivers. Education and support group during treatment and afterwards. Held the third Tuesday of the month.
• Tuesday, May 19
• 5 - 6 p.m.
• Entry level conference rooms
Program free; no registration required. Call 892-2777 for more information.
Laryngectomy Support Group
Tri-County New Voice Club for laryngectomy patients and family meets on the second Sunday of the month.
• Sunday, May 10
• 2 - 4 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Medical Office Building Radiation Therapy Conference Room
Program free; no registration required. Call Speech Therapy at 889-8331, ext. 4490 for more information.
Lyme Disease Support Group
Talk with others about how Lyme disease has impacted your life and learn the latest on diagnosis and treatments. Usually meets the first Thursday of the month.
• Thursday, May 7
• 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Medical Library
Program free; no registration required. Call Kimberlee Pappa at 860-303-9020 for more information.
Lymphedema Support Group
Offers an opportunity to share experiences and learn about risk reduction and treatment of lymphedema. Meets quarterly.
• Tuesday, June 2
• noon - 1 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, conference room 1
Program free; no registration required. Call Suzanne Plante at 823-6317 for more information.
Mended Hearts
Support group for patients with cardiac problems. Usually meets the third Tuesday of every month. Facilitated by Sue Rahn, RN, of the Backus Cardiac Rehabilitation Department.
• Tuesday, May 19
• 6:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Entry Level conference room 1
Program free; no registration required.
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support Group
"Angels Remembered" is a support group for parents who have experienced pregnancy or early infancy loss. Held the second Tuesday of each month.
• Tuesday, May 12
• 7 - 8:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Medical Office Building conference room
Program free; no registration required. Call Elynor Carey at 889-8331, ext. 4239, for more information.
Prostate Support Group
The American Cancer Society's Man to Man program is a forum for men to learn about prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment options, as well as coping and everyday living skills, through interative presentations and materials. Specialists in various fields related to prostate cancer share information on medical topics and quality of life issues. A comfortable and confidential meeting environment encourages men to discuss their concerns openly and honestly and share solutions to common problems. No medical advice is offered. Held the second Tuesday of every month.
• Tuesday, May 12
• 7 - 8:30 p.m.
• Union Baptist Church, 119 High St., Mystic
Program free; no registration required. Call 800-227-2345 for more information.
Sharing and Caring: Stroke Support and Conversation Group
For persons who have experienced a stroke, and for their families and friends. Usually held on the second Thursday of the month.
• Thursday, May 14
• 1 - 2 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, conference room 1
Program free; no registration required. Call 823-6317 and ask for Pam or 889-8331, ext. 3480 for more information.