Programs Listing

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Education Programs, Events and Screenings

Featured Events:

Operating Room Open House

The Backus Operating Room will hold an open house on the latest surgical technology, including a demonstration in the new operating room, the da Vinci robot, and other new physician specialties.

Activities for children include a Teddy Bear clinic in which kids can bring in their own teddy bear for stitches, splints and bandages, information about the important role operating roomnurses play in patient safety and mock surgical procedures.
• Sunday, Nov. 15
• 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
• Backus Hospital E-1 Surgical Suite and the Same Day Surgery waiting area

Program is free; no registration is required.

 

"An Update on Rheumatology"

Dr. Sandeep Varma will discuss the latest treatments for rheumatic illnesses. Light refreshments will be served.
• Tuesday, Nov. 17
• 5 - 6 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 SalemTpk., Norwich

Program free but registration required. Call 889-8331, ext 2495 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, calmthemind and enhance inner awareness. Suitable for beginners, those with physical limitations and continuing students.
• Mondays, Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
• 5 - 6:15 p.m.
• Mondays, Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
• 6:30 - 7:45 p.m.
• Classes held at Beth Jacob Synagogue, 400 New London Tpk., Norwich

Walk-ins welcome, $14/class fee, based on space availability. Call CHI at 860-425-3877 formore 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 fromthe suspicious
reading to a definitive diagnosis in the shortest amount of time possible to facilitatemore 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.

Call Joyce Kuusela, RN, at 860-425- 3870, or Theresa Thackston at 860-425-3809 formore information.

Breathe Easy: Letting Go of Smoking

Backus will be offering a new smoking cessation programcombining the benefits of acupuncture, hypnosis, and stressmanagement. Be ready for great changes and new commitments. Experience subtle internal shifts that awaken your path to healing and wholeness. Instructor: Martha Briggs.

There is a $140 fee and registration is required. Call CHI at 860-425-3877 for more information.

"My Diabetes, My Vision: The Sneak Attack of Diabetic Retinopathy"

Dr. Kristi Lin, a specialist in diseases and surgery of the retina and vitreous, will present.
• Thursday, Nov. 5
• 5 - 7 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 SalemTpk., Norwich

Program free but registration required. Call 860-889-8331, ext. 4092 for more information.

Diabetes Outpatient Self-Management Program

Gain a greater understanding of the components of diabetes self-care management. This programincludes 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: "I Can't Take It Any More!"

Martha Briggs, licensed acupuncturist, will present stress relief strategies and coping mechanisms for adults. Come join us and learn how to destress your life.
• Thursday, Nov. 12
• 6:30 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital entry level conference rooms

Program free but registration required. Call 860-823-6313 formore information.

Free Community Blood pressure Screening

Free blood pressure screening on the third Wednesday of each month.
• Wednesday, Nov. 18
• 1 - 2 p.m.
• Backus Hospital entry level conference room 3

Program free; no registration required.

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 yourmind and body, release the stress of your day and enter stillness, clarity, and peace. Instructor: Marie Perez.

There is a $50 fee for the five-week series and registration is required. Call CHI at 860-425-3877 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 formany 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, Nov. 2, 9, 16
• 5 - 6:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Surgical Services Family Room
• Wednesdays, Nov. 4, 18
• 2 - 3:30 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 SalemTpk., Norwich

There is a $35 (CD and book) fee for this program and registration is required. Call CHI at 860-425-3877 for more information.

Psychiatric Department Lectures

Monthly lectures on psychiatric trends and topics. Usually held on the fourth Thursday of every month.
• Thursday, Nov. 12
• 3 - 4:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital entry level conference rooms 1-2

Program free; no registration required.

Reiki: Level III Master Training

This Master Class with Reiki Master Marie Perez has a prerequisite of Advanced Reiki Training.
• Saturday, Nov. 7, and Sunday, Nov. 8
• 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 SalemTpk., Norwich

There is a $500 fee for the two-day programand registration is required. Call CHI at 860-425-3877 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, Nov. 6
• 4 - 4:30 p.m.
• Saturday, Nov. 21
• 10 - 10:30 a.m.
• Classes held in the Backus Hospital Same Day Surgery waiting area

Program free but registration required. Call 860-823-6328 for more information.

Tai Chi

A combination ofmartial arts and meditation inmotion. The many health benefits include increased balance, circulation, coordination, flexibility, andmental clarity. Suitable for beginners, those with physical limitations, as well as continuing students.

Instructor: David Chandler. A new series will begin Dec. 1. There is a $120 for the eight-week series and registration is required. Call CHI at 860-425-3877 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. A new series will begin in January.

There is a $130 fee for this 10-week program and registration is required. Call CHI at 860-425-3877 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 fromphysical therapists.
• Wednesdays, Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25
• 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 SalemTpk., Norwich

Program free; no 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-preparatorymeasures, the procedure, rehabilitation, and other issues.
• Wednesdays, Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25
• 9 - 11 a.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 SalemTpk., 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, Nov. 5
• 6 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital conference room 3

Program free but registration required. Call 860-425-3863 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, Nov. 16, 23, 30; Dec. 7 (Dec. 14 in case of bad weather)
• 7 - 9 p.m.
• Backus Hospital entry level conference rooms 1-2

There is a $55 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 860-425-3863 or e-mailmoc@wwbh.org for more information.

Childbirth Preparation Classes (weekend)

A two-day weekend class. Register early. Continental breakfast served.
• Saturday, Nov. 14, and Sunday, Nov. 15
• 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-mailmoc@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, Nov. 4
• 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-mailmoc@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.
• Tuesdays, Nov. 3, 10
• 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 formore 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, Jan. 13
• 7 - 9 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center

Program free but registration required. Call 860-425-3863 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 ... inminutes? 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.
• Mondays, Nov. 9, 16, 23, 30
• 6 - 9 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 infants and children. Instructor is certified in CPR. Classes are limited to eight people per session.
• Thursday, Dec. 10
• 6 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center

There is a $35 per couple or $20 per person fee for this programand registration is required. Call 860-425-3863 or e-mailmoc@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, Dec. 7
• 6 - 8:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center

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

New Moms' Support Group

Open to moms of babies up to six months. It's a place to ask questions in a supportive environment and talk to other newmoms about concerns like postpartumissues, breastfeeding, feeding issues and infant care. Group is facilitated by the Lactation Consultant/educator.
• Tuesdays, Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24
• 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital E-2 conference room

Program free; no registration required. Call 860-425-3863 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, Nov. 19
• 6 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center conference room

Program free but registration required. Call 860-425-3863 or e-mail 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 andmotherhood.
• Wednesdays, Nov. 4, 11, 18; Dec. 2, 9
• 6:30 - 8 p.m.
• Beth Jacob Synagogue

There is a $72 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 860-887-3388 or e-mail hathayoga@snet.net for more information.

Sibling Class

This one-day class helps big brother or sister, ages 3-6, prepare for the new addition. Tours of the Birthing Center are included and participants have the chance to see a newborn.
• Sunday, Nov. 1
• 2 - 3 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center

Program free but registration required. Call 860-425-3863 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 programand 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.
• 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-mailmoc@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, Nov. 3
• 1 - 3 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 SalemTpk., 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.
• Fridays, Nov. 6, 20
• 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

Offers free, anonymous and confidential HIV education, counseling and testing. Ongoing Mondays and Wednesdays 5 - 8 p.m. and Tuesdays 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. at 107 Lafayette St. The clinic will be closed on Nov. 11 in honor of Veterans Day. Program free but registration required. Call 860-823-6343 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 860-425-3877 to schedule an appointment or for more information.

Sexually Transmitted Disease Clinic

Diagnosis and treatment ofmost 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 Nov. 11 in honor of Veterans 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 interactive presentations, some withmedical specialists, andmaterials. Held the second Tuesday of every month.
• Tuesday, Nov. 10
• 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, Nov. 5
• 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, Nov. 17
• 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. Lunch will be provided.
• Tuesday, Nov. 10
• Noon - 1 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Medical Office Building conference room

Program free but registration required. Call 860-892-2777 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 othermonth. 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 fromothers with diabetes.
• Thursday, Dec. 3
• 7 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 SalemTpk., Norwich

Program free but registration required. Call 860-892-6906 and leave amessage 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, Nov. 17
• 5 - 6 p.m.
• Backus Hospital entry level conference rooms

Program free; no registration required. Call 860-892-2777 for more information.

Illness Management and Recovery for the Family

Obtain a greater understanding of recovery and recovery strategies. Usually held the third Wednesday of each month.
• Wednesday, Nov. 18
• 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 NewVoice Club for laryngectomy patients and family meets on the third Sunday of the month.
• Sunday, Nov. 15
• 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, Nov. 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, Dec. 1
• Noon - 1 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 SalemTpk., Norwich

Program free but registration required. Call Suzanne Plante at 860-823-6317 for more information.

Mended Hearts

Support group for patients with cardiac problems. Usually meets the third Tuesday of everymonth. Facilitated by Sue Rahn, RN, of the Backus Cardiac Rehabilitation Department.
• Tuesday, Nov. 17
• 6:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital entry level conference room1

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, Nov. 10
• 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, Nov. 12
• 1 - 2 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 SalemTpk., Norwich

Program free; no registration required. Call 860-823-6317 and ask for Pamor 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 learnmore 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, Nov. 11
• 4 - 5 p.m.
• Ross Adult Day Center, 165 McKinley Ave., Norwich

Program free; no registration required. Call 860-889-1252 for more information.