Community Education

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Education Programs, Events and Screenings

 

 


 

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 healthcare 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 Baby Shower
This yearly event highlights community and hospital services and general healthcare information for women. Guests can learn more about classes Backus offers for new and expectant parents, service agencies in the community as well as safety information about items such as car seats.

• Tuesday, April 27
• 6 - 8 p.m.
• Backus entry-level conference rooms

Program free; no registration required.


Community Blood Pressure Screenings
Free blood pressure screening on the third Wednesday of each month.

• Wednesday, April 21
• 1 - 2 p.m.
• Backus entry-level conference room 3

Program free; no registration required.


Da Vinci Women's Health: Small Steps, Healthier Lives
Backus Hospital is partnering with da Vinci Surgery, Curves International, About.com and the Department of Health's Office on Women's Health for a prevention and wellness campaign for women. The doctor-led events will look at the importance of diet, exercise and annual gynecologic exams as well as da Vinci robotic surgery options including hysterectomies and other procedures.

• Wednesday, April 28
• 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
• Curves of Norwich, 20 New London Tpk., Norwich
• Thursday, May 20
• 6:30 - 8 p.m.
• Backus entry-level conference rooms
• Wednesday, May 26
• 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
• Curves of Plainfield, 782 Norwich Road, Plainfield

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:
"Keeping Our Teens Safe in a Technological World"

Mark Lounsbury, Investigator for the Norwich Police Dept will be presenting info on texting, sexting and internet predators.

• Thursday, April 8
• 6:30 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital entry-level conference rooms

Program free, but registration required. Call 860-889-8331, ext. 2495 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. Hosted by the Backus Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism.

• Thursday, May 6
• 5 - 7 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich

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


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.

• Thursday, April 29
• 3 - 7 p.m.
• Backus entry-level conference rooms

Program free; no registration required.


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 1-3 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.

• Monday, April 5, 12, 19, 26
• 5 - 6:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Same Day Surgery Family Lounge
• Wednesday, April 7, 14, 21, 28
• 2 - 3:30 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Turnpike, Norwich

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


Psychiatric Department Lectures
Monthly lectures on psychiatric trends and topics. Usually held on the fourth Thursday of every month.

• Thursday, April 22
• 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.

• Thursday, April 1
• 4:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Same Day Surgery waiting area
• Saturday, April 17
• 10 a.m.
• Backus Hospital Same Day Surgery waiting area

Program free but registration required. Call 860-823-6328 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, April 7, 14, 21, 28
• 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Turnpike, Norwich.

Program free but registration required. Call 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, April 7, 14, 21, 28
• 9 - 11 a.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpk., Norwich

Program free but registration required. Call 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, April 8
• 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
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.

• Monday, April 5, 12, 19, 26
• 7 - 9 p.m.
• Backus entry level conference rooms 1-2

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


Childbirth Preparation Classes (weekend)
A two-day weekend class. Includes a tour of the Birthing Center. Register early.
• Saturday, April 17
• 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital entry level conference rooms 1-2
• Sunday, April 18
• 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

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.


Couples Massage for Pregnancy
This one-evening class teaches partners simple massage techniques to release pain or discomfort during pregnancy and labor.

• Wednesday, April 28
• 7 - 9 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center

There is $50 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 860-572-1872 or e-mail jstranger1@sbcglobal.net 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.

• Dates TBA
• 6 - 8 p.m.
• Backus E-2 conference room

Program free but registration required. Call 860-425-3863 or email 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 14
• 7 - 9 p.m.
• Backus Birthing Center

Program free but registration required. Call 860-425-3863 or email 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.

• Tuesday, April 20, 27, May 4, 11, 18
• 6:30 - 8 p.m.
• Birthing Center conference room
• Monday, April 19, 26, May 3, 10, 17
• 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
• Backus Birthing Center conference room

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.

• TBA
• 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 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.

• Tuesday, April 6, 13, 20, 27
• 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, April 22
• 6 - 8 p.m.
• Backus E-2 conference room

Program free but registration required. Call 860-425-3863 or email moc@wwbh.org for more information.


Parents To Be Open House
Informational session and a tour of the Birthing Center. Speakers include OB doctor, 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. To register call Elaine at 860-823-6517.

• Tuesday, April 13
• 6 - 9 p.m.
• Backus entry-level conference rooms 2-3

Program free but registration required. Call 860-823-6517 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.

• Wednesday, April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 5, 12, 19, 26
• 6:30 - 8 p.m.
• Beth Jacob Synagogue

There is $96 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 860-887-3388 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, April 15
• 6 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Birthing Center

Program free but registration required. Call 860-425-3863 ro 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.

• Saturday, April 3
• 2 - 3 p.m.
• Backus Birthing Center

Program free but registration required. Call 860-425-3863 or email moc@wwbh.org for more information.

 


Clinics and Services


 

 

 

"Smoking Cessation with Hypnosis"
This innovative smoking cessation program offers an opportunity to stop smoking and become more mindful and less stressed. The group will support each individual's success. Instructor: Pat Galvin, Certified Hypnotherapist.

• Tuesday, April 27 and May 4
• 6 - 9 p.m.
• Backus Medical Office Building Conference Room

There is $60 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 860-889-8331, ext. 2495 for more information.


Amputee Clinic
For new amputees or amputees considering a new prosthesis. Usually held the first Tuesday of the month. Individualized sessions.

• Tuesday, April 6
• 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, April 16, 30
• 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. 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. Program free; no registration required. Call 860-823-6344 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, April 1
• 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, April 20
• 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. Reservations are requested as lunch will be provided.

• Tuesday, April 13
• noon - 1 p.m.
• Backus Medical Office Building Conference Room

Program free but registration required. 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, April 14
• 6 - 7 p.m.
• Backus Medical Office Building

Program free; no registration required. Call 860-889-8331, ext. 2554 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, April 20
• 5 - 6 p.m.
• Backus Medical Office Building Conference Room

Program free; no registration required. Call 860-892-2777 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, April 18
• 1- 3 p.m.
• Backus 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, April 1
• 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.


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, April 13
• 7 - 8:30 p.m.
• Backus 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, April 8
• 1 - 2 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center conference room

Program free; no registration required. Call 860-823-6317 and ask for Pam or 860-889-8331, ext. 3480, for more information.