Community Education

Printable version | Email to a friend(s)

Education Programs, Events and Screenings

 

Beginning and Continuing Yoga With Carol Klammer 

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. Instructor: Carol Klammer.

  • Wednesdays, September 3, 10, 17, 24, Oct. 1, 8
  • 4:30 - 5:45 p.m.
  • Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpke., Norwich
  • Thursdays, September 4, 11, 18, 25, Oct. 2, 9
  • 7 - 8:15 p.m.
  • Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpke., Norwich

There is $66 fee for the six-week series program and registration is required. Call CHI at 425-3877 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. Instructor: Michele Flowers.

  • Mondays, September 8, 15, 22, 29, October 6, 20 (no class 10/13)
  • 6 - 7:15 p.m.
  • Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Turnpike, Norwich

There is $66 fee for this six-week series program and registration is required. Call CHI at 425-3877 for more information.

Continuing Yoga

Classes incorporate postures and stretches that relax, strengthen and energize. Yoga meditation is included each week. Previous yoga experience is requested. Basics will not be emphasized. Instructor: Carol Klammer.

  • Thursdays, September 4, 11, 18, 25, October 2, 9
  • 5 - 6:15 p.m.
  • Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpke., Norwich

There is $66 fee for this six-week series fee for this program and registration is required. Call CHI at 425-3877 for more information.

Creative Journaling

 

Explore the benefits of keeping a journal, how to engage in the writing process in a healing and inviting way, and learn techniques to get your creative juices flowing. Suitable for both new and seasoned journal keepers. Instructor: Elaine Brooks.

  • Thursdays, September 18, 25, October 9, 16, 23, 30 (no class 10/2)
  • 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
  • Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpke., Norwich

There is $110 fee for the 6-week program and registration is required. Call CHI at 425-3877 for more information.

Free Community Blood Pressure Screening

Free blood pressure screening on the third Wednesday of each month.

  • Wednesday, August 20
  • 1-2 p.m.
  • Backus Hospital entry level conference room 3

Program free; no registration required. Call 823-6313 for more information.

Mammograms and Pap Smear Screenings

 

This program is free to women with no health insurance or whose insurance does 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.
Program free; to register, call Joyce Kuusela, Case Manager at 823-6318, for more information.

Melanoma Benefit - Skins Cancer Screening

Howard Rogers, MD, a dermatologist on the Backus Medical Staff, will conduct a free skin cancer screening Saturday, August 2 from 12-2 p.m. on the Backus Mobile Health Resource Center at Mallon Chevrolet in Uncasville at the annual Melanoma Benefit.
The fundraising event, with many other activities, is from 12-5 p.m.
Program free; no registration required. Call 823-6313 for more information.

Pink Party

Support the 2008 Backus Breast Health Initiative Friday, Sept. 26, 6-10 p.m., at Daniel's on the Waterfront One American Way, Norwich. Contact the Backus Foundation for ticket and sponsorship information at (860) 823-6325 or email gschies@wwbh.org

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, August 4, 11, 18, 25
  • 6 - 7:30 p.m.
  • Backus Surgical Services Family Room
  • Wednesdays, August 6, 13, 20, 27
  • 2 - 3:30 p.m.
  • Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpke, 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, August 28
  • 3-4:30 p.m.
  • Backus Hospital entry level conference room 3

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, August 1
  • 4-4:30 p.m.
  • Backus Same Day Surgery waiting area
  • Saturday, August 16
  • 10-10:30 a.m.
  • Backus Same Day Surgery waiting area

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

Survivorship: How naturopathic nutrition strategies can turn you into an
exceptional cancer patient.

Part of CHI's fall oncology series, naturopathic physician and best-selling author, Dr. Peter J. D'Adamo, provides nutritional guidelines for people living with cancer and those in recovery.

  • Thursday, Sept. 18
  • 6-8 p.m.
  • Backus Hospital entry level conference rooms.

The series is free but registration is required. Call CHI 860- 425-3877 for more information.
See story on page 5 for more information regarding other event dates in this series.

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.

  • Tuesdays, August 5, 12, 19, 26, Sept. 2, 9, 16
  • 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. 
  • Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Turnpike, Norwich

There is $120 fee for the eight-week series 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, August 6, 13, 20, 27
  • 11:45 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
  • Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Turnpike, Norwich.

Program is free but registration required. Call Cheryl Martel at 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.

  • Wednesdays, August 6, 13, 20, 27
  • 9-11 a.m.
  • Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Turnpike, Norwich.

Program is free but registration required. Call 823-6376 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.

  • Tuesday, September 30
  • 6-8 p.m.
  • Backus Hospital Birthing Center

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

Breast-feeding Preparation Class

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

  • Thursday, August 7
  • 6 - 8 p.m.
  • Backus Hospital Birthing Center Conference Room

Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 or 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, Sept. 15, 22, 29, Oct. 6 (Oct. 13-in case of bad weather) 
  • 7-9 p.m.
  • Backus Hospital conference rooms 1 and 2

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

Childbirth Preparation Classes (Weekend)

A two-day weekend class. Register early. Continental breakfast.

  • Saturday, Aug. 9 and Sunday, Aug. 10
  • 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 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, September 10
  • 7 - 9 p.m.
  • Backus Hospital Birthing Center

There is $55 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 425-3863 or 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.

  • Tuesdays, August 5, 12, 19, 26
  • 5 - 7:30 p.m.
  • Backus Hospital E-2 conference room

Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 or 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, August 27
  • 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
  • Backus Hospital Birthing Center

Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 or 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 you baby can be happy and sleep longer. This 2-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 $50 per couple fee for this program and registration is required. Call Andrea at 860-917-9110 or email 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, August 11,18, 25
  • 6-10 p.m.  
  • Backus Hospital Birthing Center

There is $300 fee for this program and registration is required.
Call Andrea at 860-917-9110 or email 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 $66.50 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, July 10
  • 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 3-hour class to learn labor support techniques to maximize your comfort and relaxation in labor.

  • Monday, August 4
  • 6-8:30p.m.
  • Backus Hospital Birthing Center

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

New Mom's Support Group

Open to mom's of babies up to 6 months, it's a place to ask questions in a supportive environment, talk to other new moms about issues and concerns, meet and
discuss postpartum issues, breastfeeding and feeding issues and infant care and is facilitated by the Lactation Consultant/educator.

  • Tuesdays and Thursdays
  • 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
  • Backus Hospital B1 conference room.

Program free and no registration is required. For information call 823-6543 or email adameron@wwbh.org.

Nurturing Your Newborn - An Infant Care Class

This two-hour class teaches about 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, August 21
  • 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, Sept. 3, 19, 17, 24, Oct. 8
  • 6 - 7:30 p.m.
  • Backus Outpatient Care Center, Norwich

There is $55 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 887-3388 or email 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, August 28
  • 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, September 10
  • 10 - 11 a.m.
  • Backus Hospital Birthing Center

Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 or 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 2-hour class teaches common signs that you will use with your baby or toddler. Also includes DVD and Pictionary of over 100 signs. $40 per couple. Held in the Backus Hospital Birthing Center.

There is $40 per couple fee for this
program and registration is required. Call Andrea at 860-917-9110 or email 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, August 12 & 19
  • 4:30 - 7 p.m.
  • Backus Hospital Birthing Center

There is $10 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 425-3863 or 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, August 5
  • 1-3 p.m.
  • Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Turnpike, 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. Note: Because of the July 4 holiday, the clinical will only be held on the third Friday of the month.

  • Friday, August 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

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

The 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 are fees 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, August 7
  • 1-2:30 p.m.
  • Backus Radiation Therapy conference room in the Medical Office Building.

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, August 19 
  • 7- 8:30 p.m.
  • Backus Hospital 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 Thursday of the month. Reservations are requested as lunch will be provided.

  • Thursday, August 14 
  • 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 on the first Tuesday of every other month. The Evening Diabetes 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.

  • Wednesday, August 13 
  • 7 - 8 p.m. 
  • Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpke., Norwich.

Program free but registration required. Call 892-6906 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 Thursday of the month. 

  • Thursday, August 21 
  • noon - 1 p.m.
  • Backus Hospital conference rooms 1, 2, 3

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 second Sunday of the month.

  • Sunday, August 10 
  • 2-4 p.m.
  • Backus Hospital Radiation Therapy conference room in the Medical Office Building

Program free; no registration required. Call Speech Therapy at 889-8331 ext. 3480 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. Meets the first Thursday of the month.

  • Thursday, August 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.

  • Monday, September 8
  • 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.

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, August 12
  • 7-8:30 p.m. 
  • Backus Hospital Medical Office Building Conference Room

Program free; no registration required. Call Elynor Carey, 889-8331, ext. 4239 for more information.