Programs Listing
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Education Programs, Events and Screenings
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 based on space availability. These are the last three classes of a six-week series.
• Monday, Feb. 1, 8, 15
• 5 - 6:15 p.m.
• Beth Jacob Synagogue, 400 New London Tpke., Norwich
• Monday, Feb. 1, 8, 15
• 6:30 - 7:45 p.m.
• Beth Jacob Synagogue, 400 New London Tpk., Norwich
There is a $14/class walk-in fee for this program and registration is required. Call Michele Flowers at 860-460-9130 to register for the next series in March or for more information.
Breast Health Patient Navigator Program
Free to women who experience a suspicious mammogram and / or ultrasound reading. The Patient Navigator helps guide the woman from the suspicious reading to a definitive diagnosis in the shortest amount of time possible to facilitate more efficient access and guidance to breast health care services and information. Services include assistance with referrals to local resources and social support; assistance with appointments; educational support; and, one-on-one meetings to increase satisfaction with their breast health care experience.
Program free; no registration required. Call Joyce Kuusela, RN, at 860-425-3870, or Theresa Thackston at 860-425-3809 for more information.
Community Blood Pressure Screenings
Free blood-pressure screenings on the third Wednesday of each month.
• Wednesday, Feb. 17
• 1 - 2 p.m.
• Backus entry-level conference room 3
Program free; no registration required.
Diabetes Outpatient Self-Management Program
Gain a greater understanding of the components of diabetes self-care management. This program includes an initial assessment by Certified Diabetes Educators, a Registered Nurse and a Clinical Dietitian. Provider referral required.
Program free but registration required. Call the Diabetes Center at 860-892-6906 and select the Patient Education Classes prompt for more information.
Family Matters Health Talk:
Diagnosed with a Serious Illness? What to do next.....
Speakers Liz Fracchia, Palliative Care Program Coordinator, Barbara Sinko, SW, and Mary Ann Duchene, RN, Backus Home Health Care, talk about coping strategies for patients and families.
• Thursday, Feb. 11
• 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
• Backus entry level conference rooms
Program free but registration required. Call 860-889-8331, ext. 2495 for more information.
Ice Angel Wine Tasting and Stroke Center Fundraiser
Tickets are now available for the dedication of the Ice Angel brand of wine. Tastings will feature Ice Angel white, Special Blend reds and a gourmet demonstration from Executive Chef Guy Mitchell. Proceeds from the event support the Backus Stroke Program.
• Saturday, Feb. 13
• 5 p.m.
• Dalice Elizabeth Winery, 6 Amos Road, Preston
Tickets $50. Visit daliceelizabeth.com or call the Backus Office of Philanthropy and Development at 860-823-6331 for more information.
Prepare for Surgery, Heal Faster
Using Guided Imagery and relaxation has been shown to help 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,CD and a 90 minute instructional class. Ideally the class is taken one to three weeks prior to surgery. Classes are offered each Monday and Wednesday. A friend or family member may accompany the patient. Instructor: Paula Novak RN, Certified Healing Touch Practitioner.
• Mondays, Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22
• 5 - 6:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Same Day Surgery Family Lounge
• Wednesdays, Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24
• 2 - 3:30 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich
There is a $35 (CD and book) fee for this program and registration is required. Call CHI at 860-425-3877 to register or 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, Feb. 5
• 4:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Same Day Surgery waiting area
• Saturday, Feb. 20
• 10 a.m.
• Backus Hospital Same Day Surgery waiting area
Program free but registration required. Call 860-823-6328 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.
• Tuesday, Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23, March 2, 9, 16, 23
• 6:30 - 8 p.m.
• Beth Jacob Synagogue, 400 New London Tpk., Norwich
There is a $120 fee for the eight week series and registration is required. Call 1-800-4-TAICHI to register or for more information.
Thin's In
Thin's In combines balanced eating, exercise and behavior modification, which will leave you feeling mentally and physically satisfied and healthier. Appropriate for all weight loss goals. Instructor: Dianne Rubin. These are the last six classes of a 10-week series.
• Monday, Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22, March 1, 8
• 4:30 - 5:15 p.m. (4 - 4:30 p.m. weigh in)
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich
• Monday, Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22, March 1, 8
• 6:30 - 7:15 p.m. (6 - 6:30 p.m. weigh in)
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich
There is a $130 fee for this 10-week program and registration is required. Call Dianne Rubin at 860-442-2280 to register for the next series or for more information.
Total Care Program (joint replacement)
Learn what to expect from your joint replacement surgery - preparatory measures, the procedure, rehabilitation, and other issues. Includes demonstrations from physical therapists.
• Wednesday, Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24
• 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk, Norwich.
Program free but registration required. Call 860-823-6376 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.
• Wednesday, Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24
• 9 - 11 a.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich
Program free but registration required. Call 860-823-6376 for more information.
Childbirth and Infant Care
Breast-feeding Preparation Class
Learn breast-feeding tips for success. This class is for expectant women.
• Thursday, Feb. 4
• 6 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital conference room 3
Program free but registration required. Call 860-425-3863 or email moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Childbirth Preparation Classes (weekend)
A two-day weekend class. Register early. Continental breakfast.
• Saturday, Feb. 6 and Sunday, Feb. 7
• 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 860-425-3863 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, March 10
• 7 - 9 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center
There is a $35 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 860-425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Dr. Dad
Designed for the expectant or new father. Class will include information on the Well Child, Sick Child, Injured Child and Safe Child.
• Tuesday, Feb. 2, 9, 16 & 23
• 6 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital E-2 conference room
Program free but registration required. Call 860-425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Infant Massage
Five-week sessions offering techniques for infant massage and relaxation at Backus Hospital. Prorated 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 infants and children. Instructor is certified in CPR. Classes are limited to eight people per session.
• TBA
• 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 860-425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.
New Moms' Support Group
Open to moms of babies up to six months. It's a place to ask questions in a supportive environment and talk to other new moms about concerns like postpartum issues, breastfeeding, feeding issues and infant care. Group is facilitated by the Lactation Consultant/educator.
• Tuesdays, Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23
• 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
• Backus Patient Care Services Conference Room
Program free; no registration required. Call 860-425-3863 or email moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Nurturing Your Newborn - An Infant Care Class
This two-hour class teaches normal newborn behavior, tests and procedures in the hospital, and how to care for your baby in the first few days at home. Topics include: safe sleep, swaddling, bath demonstration, feeding, newborn appearance and behaviors and when to call the doctor.
• Thursday, Feb. 18
• 6 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital E-2 conference room
Program free but registration required. Call 860-425-3863 or email moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Prenatal Yoga Class
Release your stress and tension. Build more energy and strength. Minimize your discomfort. Learn safe and effective ways to feel good and revitalize yourself to enjoy your pregnancy and motherhood.
• Wednesdays, Feb. 24, March 3, 10, 17, 24
• 6:30 - 8 p.m.
• Beth Jacob Synagogue
There is a $60 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 862-887-3388 or e-mail hathayoga@snet.net for more information.
Prepared for your Scheduled Cesarean Section
This is a one-time class where you will learn what will happen when you come into the hospital for your c-section. Learn ways to decrease discomfort and take care of your newborn while recovering from surgery.
• Thursday, Feb. 11
• 6 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center conference room
Program free but registration required. Call 860-425-3863 or email moc@wwbh.org 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.
• Friday, Feb. 12
• 10 - 11a.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center
Program free but registration required. Call 860-425-3863 or email moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Teen Birthing
A two-evening childbirth preparation class to prepare adolescent couples for labor and delivery. Call for confirmation.
• March dates TBA
• 4:30 - 7 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center
There is a $10 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 860-425-3863 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, Feb. 2
• 1 - 3 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich
Program free but registration required. Call 860-823-6317 for more information.
Backus Car Seat Clinic
Backus Hospital and Safe Kids New London County offer car seat checks and installation on the first and third Friday of every month.
• Friday, Feb. 5, 19
• 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
• Norwich Fire Department
Program free but registration required. Call 860-442-0733 for more information.
HIV Education and Testing Site
ffers free, anonymous and confidential HIV education, counseling and testing. Ongoing Mondays and Wednesdays 5 - 8 p.m. and Tuesdays 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. at 107 Lafayette St. The clinic will be closed on Monday, Feb. 15, in observance of Presidents Day.
Program free but registration required. Call 860-823-6343 for more information.
Sexually Transmitted Disease Clinic
Diagnosis and treatment of most sexually transmitted diseases; HIV and Hepatitis C testing is available. Mondays and Wednesdays, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m., at 107 Lafayette St., Norwich. No appointment needed. Only eight patients seen each clinic session. No new registrations accepted after 7 p.m. The clinic will be closed on Monday, Feb. 15, in observance of Presidents Day.
Program free; no registration required. Call 860-823-6344 for more information.
Support Groups
American Cancer Society's Prostate Support Group
Learn about prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment options, coping and everyday living skills through interative presentations, some with medical specialists, and materials. Held the second Tuesday of every month.
• Tuesday, Feb. 9
• 7 - 8:30 p.m.
• Union Baptist Church, 119 High St., Mystic
Program free; no registration required. Call 800-227-2345 for more information.
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, Feb. 4
• 1:30 - 3 p.m.
• Backus Medical Office Building Radiation Therapy conference room
Program free; no registration required. Call 860-889-8331, 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, Feb. 16
• 7 - 8:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Medical Office Building Radiation Therapy Waiting Room
Program free; no registration required. Call 860-892-2777 for more information.
Cancer Support Group
Cancer patients and survivors are invited to discuss how cancer has changed their lives. Usually held on the second Tuesday of the month.
• Tuesday, Feb. 9
• noon - 1 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Medical Office Building Conference Room
Program free but registration required as lunch will be provided.. Call 860-892-2777 for more information.
Cardiac Support Group
For patients with cardiac problems and their families, the meetings will focus on heart disease, cardiac systems and new changes in patient care. Usually meets the second Wednesday of every month. Facilitated by Sue Rahn, RN, of the Backus Cardiac Rehabilitation Department and Aimee Stefanski, APRN, Cardiology Associates.
• Wednesday, Feb. 10
• 6 - 7 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Medical Office Building
Program free; no registration required. Call 860-889-8331, ext. 2554 for more information.
Diabetes Support Group
The Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism offers a Day Diabetes Support Group, usually held on the first Tuesday of every other month. The evening support group is usually offered every other month on the first Wednesday. This offering is perfect for individuals who would like to share information and learn from others with diabetes.
• Wednesday, Feb. 3
• 7 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich
Program free but registration required. Call 860-892-6906 and leave a message on the Diabetes Patient Education line for more information.
Head and Neck Cancer Support Group
For cancer patients, survivors and caregivers. Education and support group during treatment and afterwards. Usually held the third Tuesday of the month.
• Tuesday, Feb. 16
• 5 - 6 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Medical Office Building Conference Room
Program free; no registration required. Call 860-892-2777 for more information.
Illness Management and Recovery for the Family/Natural Supports
Obtain a greater understanding of recovery and recovery strategies. Usually held the third Wednesday of each month.
• Wednesday, Feb. 17
• 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
• Southeastern Mental Health Authority, 401 West Thames St., Bldg. 301
Program free; no registration required. Call 860-859-4500 for more information.
Laryngectomy Support Group
Tri-County New Voice Club for laryngectomy patients and family meets on the third Sunday of the month.
• Sunday, Feb. 21
• 1- 3 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Medical Office Building Radiation Therapy conference room
Program free; no registration required. Call Speech Therapy at 860-889-8331, ext. 4082 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, Feb. 4
• 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 for Breast Cancer Patients
Offers an opportunity to share experiences and learn about risk reduction and treatment of lymphedema. Meets quarterly.
• Tuesday, March 2
• 4 - 5:30 PM
• Backus Outpatient Care Center conference room 1
Program free but registration required. Call Suzanne Plante at 860-823-6317 for more information.
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, Feb. 9
• 7 - 8:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Medical Office Building conference room
Program free; no registration required. Call Elynor Carey at 860-889-8331, ext. 4239, 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, Feb. 11
• 1 - 2 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center conference room 1
Program free; no registration required. Call 860-823-6317 and ask for Pam or 860-889-8331, ext. 3480 for more information.
United Community and Family Services monthly Caregiver Support Group
For people touched by Alzheimer's or other disabilities to learn more about different illnesses, share caregiving ideas, express their feelings, hear about advances in research and advocacy. Meetings usually held the second Wednesday of each month.
• Wednesday, Feb. 10
• 4 - 5 p.m.
• Ross Adult Day Center, 165 McKinley Ave., Norwich
Program free; no registration required. Call 860-889-1252 for more information.


