Programs Listing

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Education Programs, Events and Screenings

An Evening with Dr. Peter D'Adamo
For over 25 years, naturopathic physician, Dr. Peter J. D'Adamo has extensively researched the connections between blood type, food, and disease. Combining his findings with previously established research by other scientists in his field, D'Adamo published his first book, "Eat Right 4 Your Type," in 1996. The book became a New York Times bestseller and brought worldwide recognition to D'Adamo's blood type theories and the importance of dietary individuality. The evening will include a question and answer period and book signing. Seating is on a first come basis.

• Tuesday, April 28
• 6:30 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Entry Level Conference Rooms

Program free; no registration required. Call CHI at 425-9877 for more information.

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 as well as continuing students. Walk-ins welcome $14/class walk-in fee, based on space availability. These are the last classes in a six week series. A new series will start in April.

• Mondays, March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
• 6 - 7:15 p.m.
• Classes will be held at Beth Jacob Synagogue, 400 New London Tpk., Norwich.
• Wednesdays, March 4, 11, 18
• 4:30 - 5:45 p.m.
• Classes will be held at Lee Memorial Church, 294 Washington St., Norwich.

There is $72 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.

• Thursdays, March 5, 12, 19, 26; April 2, 9
• 5 - 6:15 p.m.
• Otis Library, 261 Main St., Norwich

There is $72 fee for the six-week series and registration is required. Call CHI at 425-3877 for more information.

Breathe Easy: Letting Go of Smoking
Backus will be offering a new smoking cessation program combining the benefits of acupuncture, hypnosis, and stress management. Be ready for great changes and new commitments. Experience subtle internal shifts that awaken your path to healing and wholeness. The four-week program will be offered in a small group setting. Instructor: Martha Briggs.

• Will be held on Mondays, dates and times to be determined
• Center for Healthcare Integration, 115 Lafayette St. (across from the hospital)

There is $140 fee for the four-week series and registration is required. Call CHI at 425-3877 for more information.

Cancer Services Dinner
The next Cancer Services Dinner at Backus will review recent advances in the treatment of prostate cancer. Speakers include welcome and introductions by Mark Tramontozzi, MD; presentation on new surgical options with the da Vinci robot by T. Casey McCullough, MD; technological advances in radiation therapy treatment by Sheida Mani, MD, Radiation Oncologist; and Kathy Turner from the American Cancer Society.

• Wednesday, March 11
• 5 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Entry Level Conference Rooms

Program free but registration required. Call 823-6379 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. The cost of the program includes all of the education materials. The hospital business office will bill insurance providers. It is recommended that you contact your insurance provider to clarify the specifics of your coverage. 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, March 18
• 1 - 2 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Entry Level Conference Room 3

Program free; no registration required.

Head to Toe Health Talk: "Lyme Disease and other Tick-Borne Diseases"
Michael Rajkumar, MD, a board certified physician in Infectious Disease on the Backus Hospital staff, will discuss diagnosis and treatment of Lyme Disease and other tick-borne diseases. A question and answer period will follow the presentation.

• Thursday, March 12
• 6:30 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Entry Level Conference Rooms

Program free but registration required. Call 823-6313 for more information.

I Can! Hypno-Oncology: Complementary Cancer Care
A dynamic series providing support for people challenged with cancer and the side effects of treatment. The program incorporates instruction in self-hypnosis, Emotional Freedom Technique, Guided Imagery and art as medicine, evidence-based techniques that help to reduce pain, nausea, fatigue and anxiety while supporting recovery and well-being. Instructor: Jane Percy.The series is made possible by the generous support of the Backus Foundation's Breast Cancer Survivors Fund.

• Wednesdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22
• 5 - 6:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Medical Office Building Conference Room

There is $60 fee for the four-week series, or $15 each week. 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 program but eligibility determination and registration is required. To register, 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.

• Wednesdays, April 15, 22, 29; May 6, 12, 19
• 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
• Backus Center for Healthcare Integration (CHI), 115 Lafayette St. (across the street from the hospital).

There is $60 fee for the six-week series and registration is required. Call CHI at 425-3877 for more information.

Prepare for Surgery, Heal Faster
Using Guided Imagery and relaxation helps people feel calmer before surgery, have less pain after surgery and recover more quickly. The techniques are also helpful for many other procedures to help lessen anxiety. The patient will receive a book and CD or tape and take one 90-minute instructional class. Ideally the class is taken 1-3 weeks prior to surgery. Classes are offered each Monday and Wednesday. A friend or family member may accompany the patient.

• Mondays, March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
• 5 - 6:30 p.m.
• Backus Surgical Services Family Room
• Wednesdays, March 4, 11, 18, 25
• 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, March 26
• 3 - 4:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Entry Level Conference Rooms 1-2

Program free; no registration required.

Sail Through Surgery
A pre-op program for children, ages 18 and under, and their parents, to help prepare for an upcoming surgery.

• Friday, March 6
• 4 - 4:30 p.m.
• Saturday, March 21
• 10 - 10:30 a.m.
• Backus 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 for the first and second class, $15/class, based on space availability.

• Tuesdays, March 31; April 7, 14, 21, 28; May 5, 12, 19
• 6:30 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich

There is $120 fee 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.

• Mondays, March 23, 30; April 6, 13, 20, 27, 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
• Mondays, March 23, 30; April 6, 13, 20, 27; 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)
Learn what to expect from your joint replacement surgery - preparatory measures, the procedure, rehabilitation, and other issues. Includes demonstrations from physical therapists.

• Wednesdays, March 4, 11, 18, 25
• 11:45 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich.

Program is free but 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, March 4, 11, 18, 25
• 9 - 11 a.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich.

Program is free but registration required. Call 892-6963 for more information.

Childbirth and Infant Care

Birth Plan Seminar
Do you need a birth plan? Learn how to write a simple and effective plan to communicate your wishes.

• Thursday, March 26
• 6 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center

Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.

Breast-feeding Preparation Class
Learn breast-feeding tips for success. This class is for expectant women.

• Thursday, March 5
• 6 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center Conference Room

Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.

Childbirth Preparation Classes
A four-week series offered on Monday evenings in the Backus Hospital Birthing Center. Includes a tour of the Birthing Center. Register three months prior to due date.

• Mondays, March 2, 9, 16, 23 (30, in case of bad weather)
• 7 - 9 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Entry Level Conference Rooms 1-2

There is $55 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.

Childbirth Preparation Classes (Weekend)
A two-day weekend class. Register early. Continental breakfast.

• Saturday, March 14 and Sunday, March 15
• 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Entry Level Conference Rooms 1-2

There is $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, March 11
• 7 - 9 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center

There is $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 how to be a great dad and 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.

• TBA
• 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, April 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. Held in the Backus Hospital Birthing Center.

There is $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, April 13, 20, 27; May 4
• 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 $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 $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.

• Thursday, March 12
• 6 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center

There is $35 per couple or $20 per person fee for this program and registration is required. Call 425-3863 or 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, April 6
• 6 - 9 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center

There is $65 fee for this program and registration is required. Call Andrea at 860-917-9110 or e-mail andrea@naturallovingembrace.com for more information.

New Moms' Support Group
Open to mom's of babies up to six-months. It's a place to ask questions in a supportive environment, talk to other new moms about concerns, like postpartum issues, breastfeeding, feeding issues and infant care. Group is facilitated by the Lactation Consultant/educator.

• Tuesdays
• 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Backus Same Day Surgery Family Room

Program free; no registration required. Call 425-3863 or e-mail moc@wwbh.org for more information.

Nurturing Your Newborn - An Infant Care Class

This two-hour class teaches normal newborn behavior, tests and procedures in the hospital, and how to care for your baby in the first few days at home. Topics include: safe sleep, swaddling, bath demonstration, feeding, newborn appearance and behaviors and when to call the doctor.

• Thursday, March 19
• 6 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center Conference Room

Program free but registration required. Call 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, March 4, 11,18 25; April 1
• 6:15 - 7:45 p.m.
• Beth Jacob Synagogue

There is $60 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 887-3388 or e-mail hathayoga@snet.net for more information.

Prepare for Your Scheduled Cesarean Section
Learn what will happen when you come to the hospital for your c-section before, during and after. Learn ways to decrease discomfort and take care of your newborn while recovering from surgery.

• Thursday, April 30
• 6 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center

Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 or 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.

• Wednesday, March 11
• 10 - 11 a.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center
• Sunday, March 22
• 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. Held in the Backus Hospital Birthing Center.
There is $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, March 24 and 31
• 4:30 - 7 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center

There is $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, March 3
• 1 - 3 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich

Program free but registration required. Call 823-6317 for more information.

Backus Car Seat Clinic
Backus Hospital and Safe Kids New London County offer car seat checks and installation on the first and third Friday of every month. Program free but registration required. Call 442-0733 for more information.

• Fridays, March 6, 20
• 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
• Norwich Fire Department

Program free; no registration required.

HIV Education and Testing Site
Offers free, anonymous and confidential HIV education, counseling and testing. Ongoing Mondays and Wednesdays 5 - 8 p.m. and Tuesdays
9 a.m. - 4 p.m. at 107 Lafayette Street. Program free, but appointments are required. Call 823-6343 for more information.

Relaxation and Restoration
Backus Hospital's Center for Healthcare Integration (CHI) offers Acupuncture, Healing Touch, Therapeutic Massage (Swedish, Deep Tissue, and Hot Stone Therapy), Reflexology and Reiki sessions to the community by hospital-credentialed therapists. No referral is needed.
There is a fee for this program and registration is required. Call 425-3877 to schedule an appointment or for more information.

Sexually Transmitted Disease Clinic
Diagnosis and treatment of most sexually transmitted diseases; HIV and Hepatitis C testing is available. Mondays and Wednesdays, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m., at 107 Lafayette Street, Norwich. No appointment needed. No new registrations accepted after 7 p.m. Program free. 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, March 5
• 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, March 17
• 7 - 8:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Medical Office Building Radiation Therapy Waiting Room

Program free; no registration required. Call 892-2777 for more information.

Cancer Support Group
Cancer patients and survivors are invited to discuss how cancer has changed their lives. Usually held on the second Thursday of the month..

• Thursday, March 12
• Noon - 1 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Medical Office Building Conference Room

Program free but reservations are requested as lunch will be provided. Call 892-2777 for more information.

Diabetes Support Group
The Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism offers a Day Diabetes Support Group, usually held on the first Tuesday of every other month. The Evening Support Group is usually offered every other month on the first Wednesday. This offering is perfect for individuals who would like to share information and learn from others with diabetes. When registering, please leave a message on the Diabetes Patient Education line.

• Tuesday, March 3
• 10 - 11 a.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich

Program free but registration required. Call 892-6906 for more information.

Eastern CT Celiac Support Group
For people unable to tolerate gluten in their diet, usually held the fourth Thursday of the month. New members are encouraged to call first. Guest speaker, Shannon Haynes, RD, CD-N

• Thursday, March 26
• 6:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Entry Level Conference Rooms 1-2

Program free; no registration required. Call 889-7776 or e-mail janicejurczyk@yahoo.com 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, March 17
• 5 - 6 p.m.
• Backus Hospital 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, March 8
• 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, March 5
• 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, March 3
• 12 - 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, March 17
• 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, March 10
• 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.

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, March 12
• 1 - 2 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, Conference Room 1

Program free; no registration required. Call 823-6317 and ask for Pam or call 889-8331, ext. 3480, for more information.