Summit Medical Group

What is Integrative Primary Care Medicine?

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 19 Dec 2016 01:09:20 +0000

Just what is Integrative Family Medicine? Google the phrase and you come up with different answers.

Traditional medicine is integrated with what -- acupuncture, yoga, special diets, massage therapy, hypnosis, meditation or some combination of all of these? Why?

Tune in to SMG Radio to hear Dr. Marianna Shimelfarb demystify the issue and explain how integrative family medicine works, which holistic practices can be incorporated in patient treatment, and the health benefits you and your family will accrue if you choose to embrace integrative medicine.

Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation

Summit Medical Group — Tue, 13 Dec 2016 01:35:56 +0000

Catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation is a nonsurgical procedure in which the areas of the atrium responsible for the generation of arrhythmia are mapped and then destroyed using either radiofrequency energy (heat) or cryoenergy (freezing).

Tune into SMG radio to hear Jonathan Steinberg, MD explain how Catheter ablation is used to help treat atrial fibrillation.

Life Off Beat - - Living with AFibrillation

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 05 Dec 2016 00:10:19 +0000

According to the CDC, up to 6 million people in the US have Atrial Fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation, often called AFib, is the most common type of heart arrhythmia. With the aging of the U.S. population, this number is expected to increase.

An arrhythmia is when the heart beats too slowly, too fast, or in an irregular way.

Tune into SMG Radio to hear SMG cardiologist Dr. Robert Altman discuss the latest effective treatment options to help patients with A-fib.

Preventative Care in Family Medicine

Summit Medical Group — Sun, 04 Dec 2016 22:56:36 +0000

Family physicians at Summit Medical Group treat all aspects of whole family health. In addition to diagnosing and treating a range of illnesses and conditions, your family doctor can provide routine health checkups and counseling. He or she can help you make healthy lifestyle choices, improve and maintain your health, and prevent illness.

Tune in to SMG Radio to hear Dr. Afshan M. Khan discuss Preventive Care in Family Medicine at Summit Medical Group, and learn the advantages of working with a doctor who really gets to know you and your family for outstanding personalized care.

Chronic Sinusitis: Current Treatment Protocols

Summit Medical Group — Sun, 27 Nov 2016 22:55:13 +0000

For weeks you've been suffering with headaches, pressure around your eyes, thick, colored mucus when you blow your nose. Your chronic sinusitis is back.

Chronic sinusitis isn't just one disease. There's a spectrum of disease that require different types of treatment so an accurate diagnosis and evaluation to pinpoint the cause of the inflamed sinus cavities is paramount.

Tune in to SMG Radio as Dr. Giant Lin, an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist with Summit Medical Group, discusses the different types of chronic sinusitis, current treatment protocols, treatments that will soon be available and technology that may help the patient.

School Refusal, Why Doesn't Your Child Want To Go To School?

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 14 Nov 2016 15:40:00 +0000

Does your child wake up complaining of an upset stomach or headache and ask to stay home from school? Once school starts does he stop complaining and act normally?

If you force the issue, does he head to the nurse’s office right after school begins? What’s really going on? Is your daughter
being bullied, afraid of not getting all A’s or is it just more fun to stay home?

Tune into SMG Radio to hear Kristen Cole, LCSW, ACT, talk about the many causes of “school refusal” and how to change your child's behavior.

Separation Anxiety: How To Help Your Child Say 'See You Later'

Summit Medical Group — Tue, 08 Nov 2016 02:43:34 +0000

Have you suddenly started to trip over your child? When you try to leave him with grandma, does he start to wail and throw a tantrum?

Your child may be experiencing separation anxiety, a typical rite of passage for children between the ages of eight and 12 months that should disappear at about two years.

Young children aren't the only ones to experience separation anxiety, sometimes mothers will be unable to leave their child with anyone.

Tune in to SMG Radio and hear Allison H. Berry, LCSW, discuss how to respond to an anxious child and soothe their fears and yours.

The Latest Treatments for Atrial Fibrillation

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 07 Nov 2016 15:59:00 +0000

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most frequently diagnosed cardiac rhythm disorder. Affecting 2.5 million people in the United States, AF can be associated with an increased risk for death, congestive heart failure, and stroke.

Tune into SMG Radio to hear cardiac electrophysiologist Jonathan Steinberg discuss the latest effective treatment options to help patients with AF.

Does Your Child Struggle with ADHD?

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 31 Oct 2016 23:59:54 +0000

Are teachers and coaches telling you your child is disruptive and suggesting you need seek professional help?

Tune in to SMG Radio and get answers to these and other questions as Dr. Leonid Topper describes ADHD's symptoms and gives listeners a "tool kit" to treat it successfully.

Do You Suffer from Painful Migraines?

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 31 Oct 2016 23:22:42 +0000

If you suffer from migraine headaches, you're not alone. About 12 percent of the U.S. population gets them. Migraines are recurring attacks of moderate to severe pain.

Could that pounding headache, blurry vision and nausea be a migraine or could they be signs of something more serious?

Tune in to SMG Radio to hear Dr. Leonid Topper discuss how to accurately diagnose migraines and how to successfully treat and live with them.

Lung Cancer Screening Can Save Your Life

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 31 Oct 2016 13:59:00 +0000

Lung cancer is second most common type of cancer in the United States and Lung cancer can be difficult to find in its early stages because it often has no symptoms until it has spread to other places in the body.

According to the National Cancer Institute, a 2011 report from the NLST suggests that compared with standard chest x-rays, low-dose CT scans for lung cancer screening could reduce lung cancer deaths by 20 percent because they help doctors identify lung cancer in its early stages.

Listen in as Sarada Gurubhagavatula, MD, explains that CT lung cancer screening only takes about 10 minutes and can detect lung cancer early and result in better treatment outcomes.

Intragastric Ballon For Weight Loss - A Non-Surgical Procedure That Might Be Right For You

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 31 Oct 2016 00:59:30 +0000

How do you shrink your stomach without surgery? For many obese individuals, the answer may be an Intragastric Balloon. Doctors use an endoscope to insert a deflated balloon in your stomach and fill the balloon with a sterile saline solution. The inflated balloon is left in place for about six months while you lose weight, learn new ways to eat and turn your health around.

Tune into SMG Radio and listen to Summit Medical Group Gastroenterologist Dr. Hazar Michael explain the medical pros and cons of the Intragastric Balloon.

Lifestyle Modification in Breast Cancer Survivorship

Summit Medical Group — Sat, 01 Oct 2016 13:59:00 +0000

What can increase the success rate in treating breast cancer? Breast cancer is the most frequently occurring cancer in women, and one of the most important factors in regaining health are lifestyle changes.

Diet, exercise and stress reduction all play an important role in getting back on the road to health, well being and living life cancer-free.

Tune into SMG Radio to hear Dr. Roshini George talk about lifestyle modification to aid in breast cancer survivorship.

Chronic Leukemia

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 26 Sep 2016 13:50:00 +0000

Losing significant weight without trying and feeling continually exhausted may be some of the symptoms of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. (CLL)

CLL is a type of cancer that affects older adults, often white men, and it can be present long before it causes symptoms. It may also be harder to treat than other forms of leukemia.

To learn more about CLL, tune into SMG Radio to hear Dr. David Gallinson, a specialist in cancer, discuss the symptoms and treatment of this form of leukemia.

Cervical Cancer Screening: HPV or Pap Smear?

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 14:31:18 +0000

Cervical cancer screening with a pap smear has been an essential part of a woman's routine health care for many years. However, the guidelines are changing and the test we've relied on for so many years may now be an adjunct to the HPV test. My guest today is Dr Ann ricks she is an obstetrician and gynecologist at Summit Medical Group.

Listen in as Ann M. Ricks, MD obstetrician and gynecologist at Summit Medical Group, discusses the new guidelines for cervical cancer screening.

New Partnership Between Summit Medical Group and the MD Anderson Cancer Center

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 12 Sep 2016 14:26:31 +0000

Did you know that treatment from one of the world's leading cancer centers is now available in your backyard? Last spring, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and Summit Medical began a new partnership to provide world-renowned cancer care to patients at its locations throughout northern New Jersey.

Tune into SMG Radio to hear cancer expert Dr. William DeRosa explain how this exciting new partnership will benefit patients at Summit Medical Group.

The Best Strategies for Weight Loss

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 05 Sep 2016 14:00:00 +0000

Restricting calories and exercising are both important to weight loss—but so are other lesser known factors. For example, it’s also important to eat at regular intervals so your body has a steady stream of energy.

Other factors critical to weight loss are drinking water and eating foods that are low in sugar, including carbohydrates.

Tune into SMG Radio to hear Dr. Cynthia Paige debunk some myths about weight loss and give tips that will help you shed those extra pounds.

Taking Medications on Time: More Important Than You Might Think

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 22 Aug 2016 14:00:32 +0000

Taking medication correctly may seem like a simple or personal matter, but non-adherence (or not taking medication as directed) is a complicated and common problem.

The treatment of chronic illnesses commonly includes the long-term use of medications. Diseases like Diabetes or Heart disease may require long term medication. Although these medications are effective in combating disease, their full benefits are often not realized because approximately 50% of patients do not take their medications as prescribed.

Gwen Egloff, PharmD is here to explain the importance of taking, as prescribed, all your medications.

Do You Suffer from Tennis Elbow?

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 15 Aug 2016 14:00:00 +0000

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition of the elbow caused by overuse. Not surprisingly, playing tennis or other racquet sports can cause this condition. However, several other sports and activities can also put you at risk.

Tennis elbow is usually caused by activities that overuse the tendons and muscles in your forearm that straighten and raise your hand and wrist.

Examples of these activities are tennis and other racket sports, carpentry, machine work, computer work, and knitting. Tennis elbow may also be caused by a sudden injury that twists or tears your tendon.

Listen in as Robert S. Boretz, MD discusses tennis elbow, what you can do to prevent it and how Summit Medical Group’s orthopedics and sports medicine can help get you back to playing your favorite sports.

Learn more about Summit Medical Group’s orthopedics and sports medicine

Foot and Ankle Sprains and Injuries

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 08 Aug 2016 14:00:00 +0000

Do you wear flip flops or open back shoes? Both put a lot of pressure on your feet and ankles and cause foot strain along the arch. Do you like to take barefoot walks on beaches? That can strain the joints of the feet. Ankle sprains and foot strains are common, but many can be easily prevented.

Find out how to care for your feet!

Tune into SMG Radio and hear podiatrist Dr. Marco Ucciferri’s tips on foot and ankle health.

Learn more about Summit Medical Group’s orthopedics and sports medicine

Better Understand The Link Between Diabetes and Your Diet

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 01 Aug 2016 14:00:00 +0000

There are many misconceptions about diabetes and diet. Many people think that people with diabetes have to follow a "diabetic diet." In fact, they just have to eat the same healthy diet that is good for everyone: lean meats, fish and chicken, whole grains, fruits and vegetables and a small amount of fat, and refined sugar.

Switching to a healthier diet can do a lot to improve your health, but it does require discipline if you suffer from Diabetes it may be even more difficult to maintain that healthy lifestyle and make good choices.

People with diabetes can eat the same foods the family enjoys. Everyone benefits from healthy eating so the whole family can take part in healthy eating.

Jeffrey Bauman, MD, is here to discuss the importance of your diet to help control your diabetes.

Blue Tooth Hearing Aids? New Technology for the Hearing Impaired

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 14:00:00 +0000

Although hearing aids cannot restore hearing to perfection, they improve a person's ability to understand speech and distinguish between a variety of sounds. In addition, many people suggest their self esteem improves after they receive a hearing aid.

Bluetooth® technology allows wireless communication between hearing aids and other devices, including cellular phones, computers, televisions, frequency modulation (FM) systems, and digital audio (MP3) players.

Listen in as Gary Thorne, AuD, an audiologist with Summit Medical Group, discusses how hearing aids have joined the digital revolution.

Do You Have a Torn Rotator Cuff?

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 18 Jul 2016 14:00:00 +0000

A rotator cuff tear is a common cause of pain and disability among adults with close to 2 million people in the United States reporting going to their doctors because of a rotator cuff problem. What exactly is the rotator cuff? This group of tendons and muscles are located in the shoulder and attach the upper arm to the shoulder blade.

With the many movements of the rotator cuff it can make them very susceptible to injuries.

Listen to SMG Radio to hear Dr. Mark Kavanagh explain the function of the rotator cuff and how to prevent injuries.

Learn more about Summit Medical's new Orthopedic Location

What Role Do PAs and NPs Play in Healthcare?

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 11 Jul 2016 14:00:00 +0000

In many health care facilities, a nurse practitioner or physician assistant may be on hand to help provide care. These professionals can diagnose and treat conditions and prescribe medications usually under the supervision of a physician.

Raekeisha L. Dean, PA-C is here to explain the roles of PAs and NPs.

ACL Tears: Summit Medical's New Center Can Help

Summit Medical Group — Fri, 01 Jul 2016 14:00:00 +0000

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the most commonly injured ligaments of the knee. Athletes who participate in high demand sports like soccer, football, and basketball can be more likely to injure their anterior cruciate ligaments.

Listen to SMG’s interview with orthopedic expert Dr. David Abrutyn, as he explains the ABC’s of the ACL.

Learn more about Summit Medical's new Orthopedic Location

What is the Low Glycemic Index Diet?

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 20 Jun 2016 15:00:00 +0000

You might think a mango smoothie for lunch is a healthy choice.

But did you know that calorie counting is just part of eating a balanced diet that promotes a healthy weight?

It’s also important to consider a glycemic index of food when you plan your meals and snacks.

A glycemic index is a measure of how foods, carbs in particular, affect your blood sugar level.

For example, most fruits have a higher glycemic index than most vegetables.

Glycemic index is especially important for people with diabetes, but everyone can benefit from understanding the way their body processes carbohydrates and how to keep their glycemic index at an optimum level.

Tune in to SMG radio to hear Dr. Cynthia Paige explain why a low glycemic index diet should be on your health radar.

Central Auditory Processing Tests

Summit Medical Group — Thu, 02 Jun 2016 00:20:48 +0000

Does your child seem to have a problem hearing in the classroom? Children may pass a standard hearing test but still have trouble hearing in the classroom because they have central auditory processing disorder (CAPD).

CAPD exists in children who have otherwise normal hearing tests (i.e., hear the beep at a specific pitch and raise their hand), but continue to have difficulties in the classroom due to their inability to perform in background noise or in situations with multiple speakers.

These are not children with general hearing loss, but they do require professional evaluation and treatment.

Tiffany N. Colon, AuD, audiologist at Summit Medical, is here to discuss the latest developments in Central Auditory Processing.

Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Men/Overcoming Barriers To Get Men To Therapy

Summit Medical Group — Tue, 31 May 2016 23:48:14 +0000

Life can sometimes be overwhelming. A medical diagnosis, family conflict, work stress, or feelings of anxiety or depression can cause you to struggle with daily activities. When this happens, the behavioral health specialists at Summit Medical Group Behavioral Health and Cognitive Therapy Center can provide the support you need for effective behavioral health management.

Depression is not a sign of emotional weakness or failing of masculinity. It is a treatable health condition that affects millions of men of all ages and backgrounds, as well as those who care about them—spouses, partners, friends, and family. Unfortunately, depression in men can often be overlooked as many of them find it difficult to talk about feelings.

Michael Likier, PhD, is here to to explain how men can benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy just as much as women and how important it is to help get their depression and anxiety under control.

Colon Cancer Screening: Getting Your Men To Get The Screening

Summit Medical Group — Tue, 31 May 2016 23:29:40 +0000

By age 50, people are at average risk and should be screened for colorectal cancer. Every year, more than 130,000 people learn they have colorectal cancer, and many of them are men, yet men seem more hesitant to get the screening than women.

Some people who get colorectal cancer have no known risk for it. Screening allows doctors to identify and remove abnormalities that can lead to cancer. It also allows us to identify cancer in its early stages when it has the best possibility of responding to treatment.

Raymond P. Kenny, MD, gastroenterologist at Summit Medical Group, is here to discuss the importance of getting a colon and rectal cancer screening for men, and how their loved ones can encourage them to get this very important screening.

The Heart Failure Clinic At Summit Medical Group

Summit Medical Group — Wed, 11 May 2016 05:16:37 +0000

Heart failure is a condition in which the heart muscle weakens and cannot pump blood effectively. It results from high blood pressure, heart attack, valve disease, or other health problems.

The Heart Failure Clinic team focuses on diagnosing the condition.

A team of medical experts, including your physician, cardiologist, physician assistants, and registered nurses will partner to help strengthen your heart and improve your tolerance for activity.

Seth Jawetz, MD, is here to talk about The Heart Failure Clinic at Summit Medical Group.

Helping Parents Manage Child and Teen's Anxiety

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 18 Apr 2016 18:53:14 +0000

Anxiety is an emotion that is felt in the body.

It is a physical response.

Often, when children feel anxious, they do not actually recognize or describe their body symptoms as anxiety or nervousness. Instead, they may say that they feel sick, or have a sore tummy.

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health concerns for children and adults, affecting upwards of 20% of children and adolescents over the lifespan.

Melissa Breslin, MA, is here to explain how parents play an essential role in helping their child or teen manage anxiety.

The Relationship Between Sleep and Diabetes

Summit Medical Group — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 18:15:59 +0000

Having diabetes means that there is too much sugar (glucose) in your blood. Your blood always has some sugar in it because your body needs it for energy. But too much glucose in the blood is not good for your health.

Studies show that getting enough sleep is important for improving and maintaining good health. Researchers believe that certain processes necessary for repairing the body occur at best or only during sleep.

Getting too little sleep means missing important cycles that help restore memory and ensure the ability to concentrate, accurately perform motor skills, and stabilize emotions.

Diabetes and sleep problems often go hand in hand. Diabetes can cause sleep loss, and there's evidence that not sleeping well can increase your risk of developing diabetes.

Jeffrey Bauman, MD, is here to discuss the importance of getting a good nights sleep as a way to keep your Diabetes under control or help prevent it altogether.

HPV and Cervical Cancer Screening

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 28 Mar 2016 17:00:00 +0000

Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers in women worldwide.

Most cervical cancer is caused by a virus called human papillomavirus, or HPV.

An HPV test recently approved by U.S. health officials is an effective way to check for cervical cancer.

Recent studies suggest that this HPV test is an effective, one-test alternative to the current recommendation of screening with either a Pap test alone or a combination of the HPV test and a Pap test.

Tune in to SMG radio to hear women’s health expert Dr. Kara Goldman discuss HPV and cervical cancer screenings.

Palliative Care for Cancer Patients

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 17:00:00 +0000

Cancer patients and their families often think they have to travel to large academic medical centers to get the expert care they need and access to the latest clinical trials.

That is not necessarily so.

Summit Medical Group’s specialists are on the cutting edge of cancer care from diagnosis and treatment to the at-home care patients often require as their disease progresses.

Tune into SMG radio to hear Dr. Biren Saraiya talk about best practices in oncology care, palliative medicine and clinical trials for cancer patients.

Knee Health Through The Ages

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 14 Mar 2016 17:00:00 +0000

Knee problems can occur at any stage of life, from children and adolescents to baby-boomers and the elderly.

Because knees bear all our body weight, they are vulnerable to the wear and tear of daily living.

But it’s possible to keep your knees healthy throughout a lifetime with some basic steps like managing your weight.

Tune into SMG radio to learn the ABC’s of knee health in an exclusive interview with renowned knee surgeon Dr. Richard Rosa of Summit Medical Group.

Barrett’s Esophagus- What You Need To Know

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 07 Mar 2016 19:00:00 +0000

If you suffer from chronic heartburn, you may actually have more serious condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, a very common disorder.

In GERD, there is chronic regurgitation of the stomach’s digestive “juices” into the esophagus.

This is unpleasant and also can cause substantial harm to the tissues of the esophagus, especially when the backflow is acidic.

If GERD is left undiagnosed and untreated, it can lead to a condition called Barrett's esophagus that may cause a rare cancer called esophageal adencarcinoma.

Find out more Barrett's esophagus from Summit Medical Group’s Dr. Raymond Kelly, a noted gastroenterologist, by tuning into SMG radio.

Do You Suffer from Flat Feet?

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 29 Feb 2016 19:00:00 +0000

Flat feet are a common condition—but they can lead to serious problems of the ankle and foot by changing the alignment of your legs.

Both children and adults can suffer from flat feet.

The good news is that flat feet can be treated before trouble begins, if they are diagnosed in time.

Tune into SMG Radio to hear Summit Medical Group foot and ankle expert Dr. Tony DiStefano discuss how to recognize flat feet and the first steps to take to correct them.

Colorectal Cancer Prevention Tips

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 29 Feb 2016 19:00:00 +0000

Colorectal cancer screening is important for everyone, especially if you are age 50 years or older.

But it is especially important if you have risks for colorectal cancer.

Some of those risks are being age 50 years or older, personal history of colorectal polyps, personal history of colorectal cancer,
personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Dr. Roger Klein is here to discuss Colorectal cancer prevention tips.

Clinical Trials at Summit Medical Group

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 19:00:00 +0000

Mohs Surgery: The Latest Technique for Skin Cancer

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 15 Feb 2016 19:00:00 +0000

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States.

New treatments for skin cancer have been evolving rapidly in recent years.

Today, a surgical technique called “Mohs surgery” has come to be accepted as the single most effective technique for removing Basal Cell Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma, the two most common skin cancers.

Moh’s surgery saves healthy skin, while removing cancerous cells effectively.

Tune into SMG Radio to hear SMG’s Dr. Hari Nadiminti discuss Mohs surgery and skin cancer.

Imaging Services at SMG

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 15 Feb 2016 19:00:00 +0000

When most people think of imaging, they think of an X-ray, CT scan or MRI.

In fact, imaging has evolved beyond those three modalities into one of the most sophisticated fields of medical technology.

Imaging is essential to many surgical procedures and is actually done simultaneously with the procedure.

In addition, medical imaging now includes technology that can produce 3-D images.

Tune in to SMG Radio to hear Summit Medical Group imaging expert Kathryn Vendemia describe the full range of imaging services at SMG.

Should You Get a Vascular Screening? It Could Save Your Life.

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 19:00:00 +0000

Are you one of the 30 million Americans at risk for vascular disease?

Vascular disease prevents blood from flowing properly through the circulatory system. Often, vascular disease has no obvious signs or symptoms.

For this reason, it is known as a silent disease. In many cases, screenings are the only way to detect it.

Summit Medical Group offers 3 types of vascular screening to help detect silent vascular disease. Early detection can help identify and treat potentially debilitating vascular conditions and protect your health.

With a 10-minute screening, you can help prevent strokes, ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms, and peripheral arterial disease.

Screenings are painless procedures that use ultrasound technology.

Tune in to SMG radio to hear Dr. Richard Nitzberg, a vascular surgeon and diagnostic expert explain why vascular screenings are a key to good health in middle age and beyond.

Genetic Testing for Cancer

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 19:00:00 +0000

Have any of your close relatives had cancer?

Researchers know that cancer can “run in families” and can have a genetic component.

Increasingly people who feel they have a high cancer risk, especially for breast and ovarian cancer, are getting genetic testing, but this can be stressful and bring up difficult decisions and emotional issues.

To learn more about genetic screenings for cancer, tune into SMG radio for an interview with SMG;s genetic counseling expert, Niecee Singer Schonberger.

SMG’s Early Heart Disease Prevention Program

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 01 Feb 2016 19:00:00 +0000

Are you at risk for a heart attack?

Heart disease is the leading killer of Americans—but you don’t have to be a victim of cardiovascular disease.

If detected early, heart disease is treatable-and it is also preventable.

Tune into SMG radio to hear Summit Medical Group’s Chief of Cardiology, Dr. Andrew Beamer, talk about SMG’s new Early Heart Disease Prevention Program and the importance of a cardiac stress test, among other testing.

Oncology at Summit Medical Group

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 01 Feb 2016 19:00:00 +0000

What Exactly is The Zika Virus

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 25 Jan 2016 16:26:54 +0000

The Zika virus has been front-page news. Originating in tropical countries the virus is spreading rapidly and it has been known to cause birth defects.

The Centers for Disease Control have issued a travel advisory for pregnant women traveling to South America, the Caribbean and Polynesia.

New Jersey reported its first case of Zika on January 20th, last week, in a woman who was traveling in Columbia.

What exactly is Zika and what can you do to prevent getting it? Tune in to SMG Radio to hear infectious disease expert Dr. Redentor S. Mendiola, Jr, explain the how's and why's of the Zika virus and what you can do to protect yourself from it.

Preparing Children For Puberty

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 18 Jan 2016 19:00:00 +0000

Puberty can be a rocky time in any child’s life, so it’s important to prepare children for the transitions of puberty before the changes start.

These discussions can be difficult to have.

Parents want to know how to begin the conversation, and how much information is enough—but not too much.

Relax, there’s help on the way.

To learn more about preparing your child for puberty, listen to SMG Radio’s interview with pediatric and adolescent medicine specialist Dr. Dahlia Hall.

Adult Vaccines for Shingles, Pneumonia and TDAP

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 11 Jan 2016 19:00:00 +0000

Are you properly vaccinated? Having the right vaccines is as important for adults as it is for children. This is especially true for people who are over age 65 and for pregnant women.

But who should get which vaccines?

To learn more about vaccinations for adults, tune into SMG radio for an interview with Dr. Sweetie Mehra, who will discuss the important of getting immunized for shingles and pneumonia and also getting the single vaccine that protects against three illnesses in one shot: tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis.

Start The Discussion: The Importance Of Advance Directives

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 04 Jan 2016 19:00:00 +0000

It can be tricky to start a conversation with your parents or spouse about writing an Advance Directive for health care—but it’s important to plan ahead for end-of-life decisions.

Studies show that having advance directives reduces stress for family members who may have to make grueling end-of-life decisions.

But how can you get that conversation started?

Tune into SMG radio to hear Summit Medical Group’s patient relations manager, Mary Petti, RN, discuss the importance of planning ahead about end-of-life decisions, provide useful information about how to prepare an Advance Directive, and explain how to get sample forms.

Chronic Heartburn? You May Have GERD

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 28 Dec 2015 19:00:00 +0000

If you suffer from chronic heartburn, you may actually have more serious condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, a very common disorder.

GERD causes a backflow of the stomach’s digestive “juices” into the esophagus.

This is unpleasant and also can cause substantial harm to the tissues of the esophagus, especially when the backflow contains harsh stomach acids.

Find out how to recognize the difference between simple heartburn and GERD—and what the latest GERD treatments are when you tune into SMG radio for an exclusive interview with from Summit Medical Group’s Dr. Raymond Kelly, a gastroenterologist and expert in GERD diagnosis and treatment.

Does Your Child Have Sleep Issues?

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 21 Dec 2015 19:00:00 +0000

Does your child have trouble falling or staying asleep?

About 25 to 30 percent of infants and children have sleep problems, due to medical issues, emotional issues or poor bedtime routines.

Sleep problems disrupt the rest of both children and their parents, and can leave everyone in a household exhausted.

If your child has issues with sleep, or they use too many electronics before bed and can't fall asleep, listen in to SMG radio’s interview with pediatrician Dr. Dahlia Hall.

Knee Replacement Surgery: A Safe and Effective Procedure

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 19:00:52 +0000

If your knee is severely damaged by arthritis or injury, it may be hard for you to perform simple activities, such as walking or climbing stairs.

You may even begin to feel pain while you are sitting or lying down.

If nonsurgical treatments like medications and using walking supports are no longer helpful, you may want to consider total knee replacement surgery.

Joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective procedure to relieve pain, correct leg deformity, and help you resume normal activities.

Tune into SMG radio to learn about joint replacement surgery in an exclusive interview with renowned knee surgeon Dr. Richard Rosa of Summit Medical Group.

Rotator Cuff Repair

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 19:00:00 +0000

If you have a rotator cuff tear, you know just how painful it can be.

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint.

Rotator cuff injuries occur most often in people who repeatedly perform overhead motions in their jobs or sports.

Rest, ice and physical therapy, sometimes are all that's needed to recover from a rotator cuff injury.

If your injury is severe and involves a complete tear of the muscle or tendon, you might need surgery.

Jason Garcia, MD is here to discuss your options if you have a rotator cuff injury.

This Year’s Flu Virus

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 07 Dec 2015 19:00:00 +0000

Are you worried about getting the flu this winter?

Many Americans are. Flu season starts as early as October and can last as late as May . . . and there is a flu outbreak every year.

Flu viruses are always changing, and it’s hard to predict which strain this year’s will be—but you can get ready.

To learn how, tune into SMG Radio and hear internal medicine specialist Dr. Sweetie Mehra talk about protecting yourself from the flu.

The ABC's of Hepatitis

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 30 Nov 2015 19:00:00 +0000

Hepatitis is a disease of the liver, and there are three distinct types that are most common, ranging from a preventable and easily curable infection (Hepatitis A) to other variations, including Hepatitis B and C that are acute and chronic diseases—both potentially fatal.

In addition, there are two rare forms of Hepatitis, D and E.

Are you properly vaccinated to prevent Hepatitis A?

How exactly are the other, more serious, forms of the disease transmitted?

It’s important—for both you and your loved ones—to know the differences between types of hepatitis and the symptoms for each, which can be overlapping.

Tune into SMG Radio to hear liver expert Dr. Raymond Kenny discuss the ABC’s of Hepatitis.

Open Enrollment/ Special Enrollment- ACA Explained!

Summit Medical Group — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 23:00:00 +0000

Is there anything more confusing than figuring out the Affordable Care Act?

You are not alone!

Summit Medical Group is here to help.

Insurance expert Peter Saunders is SMG’s in-house expert on understanding and explaining health insurance.

Tune into SMG Radio to hear him explain the difference between Open Enrollment and Special Enrollment under the Affordable Care Act.

Benefits 101 – Understanding Benefits and Well Visits

Summit Medical Group — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 23:00:00 +0000

Preventative health is essential to staying well.

Yet, many people bypass their yearly check-up because they aren’t sure which parts are covered by insurance.

To get the most out of your health insurance, it’s important to understand what is covered for wellness visits.

Tune into SMG Radio to hear health insurance expert Carol Mancusi discuss benefits and you.

Alternative Approaches for Prevention and Health

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 09 Nov 2015 19:00:00 +0000

Does Vitamin C really prevent colds?

Is it true that a teaspoon of honey can control a cough as well as cough medicine?

Is breathing in steam just as effective as taking decongestants?

As cold and flu season approaches, it’s important to know if there are alternatives to traditional remedies, and which ones work.

Alternative approaches to prevention of illness and health can be as simple as improving your diet, getting fresh air, exercise and making sure you get enough sleep at night.

To learn more about alternative and holistic ways to get and stay healthy, tune into SMG Radio and get health tips from Dr. Michelle Bender.

Understanding Your Deductibles

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 09 Nov 2015 19:00:00 +0000

Do you understand the deductibles of your health insurance policy?

Does anyone?

Perhaps no aspect of health insurance is as confusing as understanding what the patient will pay and what the insurance company will pay.

Knowing your Deductibles, Out-of-pocket costs, Maximums, Copayments, In-network and out-of-network costs can be very difficult.

Tune into SMG radio today as Carolyn Dodd is here to help you understand you insurance.

Germs, Colds & Fevers, Oh My – Prevention and Treatment Tips

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 02 Nov 2015 19:00:00 +0000

As cold and flu season approaches, it’s important to get ready for the sneezing, scratchy throats, coughs and fevers of winter.

Children, in particular, are susceptible to catching colds because of they are in school all day—a petri dish of cold and flu germs. Effective treatment of colds starts with correct diagnosis. It’s important to know if you are dealing with a bacterial or a viral bug, because each one is treated differently.

It’s also critical to know appropriate dosages for over-the-counter medications, and to be aware which ones are okay for which ages of child. There are also lots of products today that claim to ward off a full-blown cold if they’re taken just as soon as you feel sick.

Do any of these really work—and is it safe to give them to children? Parents also need to be able to judge when a child is to sick to go to school and should stay home—always a tough call.

To learn more about staying healthy this winter as a family, tune into SMG Radio and get prevention and treatment tips from Dr. Michelle Bender.

The Latest Advances in Cardiology

Summit Medical Group — Wed, 21 Oct 2015 16:48:14 +0000

The field of cardiology is advancing rapidly to find answers to the prevention and treatment of heart disease, the number one killer in America.

According to the American Heart Association, the top recent advances in cardiology include: 1) new prevention guidelines to help patients decrease the risk of heart attacks and stroke, including cutting-edge methods of calculating a 10-year risk of heart attacks; 2) better ways to control high blood pressure, and 3) a new emphasis on cardiac rehabilitation after a heart attack.

Summit Medical Group’s Dr. Nikolas Juliano is an expert in cardiology, including interventional cardiology, and the use of catheters for procedures like angioplasty and stenting.

Dr. Nikolas Juliano's is here to discuss the latest discoveries and advances in preventing and treating heart disease.

Generic Vs Brand Name Medications: Is There a Difference?

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 24 Aug 2015 17:00:00 +0000

Generic drugs may save you money, but are they really the same as brand medications?

It’s a question many people ask, especially when they have to be on long-term medication for chronic conditions.

Some groups have raised questions about the government’s requirements for proving a generic drug acts in the same way as the brand-name drug.

Learn more about the safety and efficiency of generic drugs from medication specialist Laura Balsamini, Director of Pharmacy Services at Summit Medical Group.

Balsamini is an expert in managing medications and advises physicians about drug use and control and will share her insights about brand drugs versus medications on a special SMG radio podcast.

Effective Management of Anxiety

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 10 Aug 2015 17:00:00 +0000

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by anxiety?

Anxiety stems from stress, and is a normal part of life—but it can affect your health. We experience anxiety at work, at school, and even at home.

While anxiety can never be eliminated entirely from our lives, it can be managed. It is also important to distinguish between normal feelings of anxiousness and a clinically-diagnosed anxiety disorder—like panic disorder—which may require medication and counseling.

To learn more about causes and treatments of anxiety, listen to an informative podcast by Summit Medical Group’s Dr. James Korman, who discusses healthy coping skills for anxiety.

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 03 Aug 2015 17:00:47 +0000

Why exactly is stress bad for us?

It’s a response our body produces to perceived threats.

Another term for stress is the “fight or flight syndrome,” which puts our body on high alert and releases adrenalin into our blood stream.

We feel stress when we are under pressure, whether it’s being late to appointment because of traffic or dealing with an unreasonable boss.

To be healthy, it’s important recognize when an event is stressful yet not let it trigger an automatic response that can send blood pressure soaring.

One technique that’s been proven to be effective is called “mindfulness-based” stress reduction.

It’s a means of perceiving that a situation is stressful but being in control of our reaction so we’re not producing “fight or flight” hormones automatically.

To learn more about managing the stress in your life, listen to a podcast by Summit Medical Group’s Nicole Swain, a professional counselor and expert on anxiety. She will take you through the steps you need to achieve calm in the face of stressful situations.

Do You Have Bunions? What Can You Do About Them?

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 17:00:27 +0000

Do you want to wear the cutest shoes? Do you ever feel embarrassed by the way your feet look? That area next to your big toe that sticks out and makes it so those oh so cute shoes don't fit, hurt or look bad? It could be Bunions and there is help for them.

In Western countries, approximately 30% of the population live with Bunions. They are most common in women and also occur as we get older.

Bunions are more complicated than they appear. They can be painful and affect the quality of your life. Whatever the cause of Bunions, they can be addressed and there are remedies for them.

Marco Ucciferri, DPM , discusses prevention tactics as well as bunion causes, pain and the non-surgical and surgical treatments available at Summit Medical Group.

There is Help for Depression

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 20 Jul 2015 17:00:34 +0000

What causes depression?

It’s not as simple as you may think. Most people associate the words “clinical depression” with what is popularly called a “chemical imbalance,” as though we have too much or too little of a single brain chemical.

In fact, depression in an individual is often caused by “perfect storm” of several issues coming together to create a mood disorder.

These issues can include faulty mood regulation by the brain involving multiple neurochemicals, as well as genetics, and stressful life events, including a significant loss; chronic medical problems and medication.

Just as causes for depression vary, so do the treatments.

To learn more about causes and treatment of depression, listen to an informative podcast by Summit Medical Group’s Dr. Amanda Starling, who discusses the myths and realities of clinical depression.

Can You Really Quit Smoking? Yes You Can!

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 13 Jul 2015 15:52:52 +0000

Smoking harms every organ in the body. Cigarette smoking causes more than 480,000 deaths each year in the United States.

This is about one in five deaths. Quitting smoking is the single most important step a smoker can take to improve the length and quality of his or her life.Smoking is the most preventable cause of premature death in the United States.

Smokers have a higher risk of developing a variety of cancers and many lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and heart disorders that can lead to coronary heart disease and stroke.

Stopping smoking can be tough but smokers don’t have to quit alone.

Katherine DiDonato, Ph.D is here to discuss smoking and how quitting can help save your life.

Coping with Serious Health Conditions

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 06 Jul 2015 17:00:22 +0000

Chronic medical illness challenges effective coping. Knowledge of the patient's ability to cope with stress and their resiliency are essential to assessing a patient and also helping achieve the best medical outcome.

It’s important for both the clinical team and the family to be aware of the patient’s coping skills and how these are being tested.

Warning signs include: 1) missing medical appointments, 2) skipping doses of prescribed medication, and 3) avoiding necessary visits to a lab for testing. It’s also vital to be sensitive and aware of moods.

Anger, and unprovoked irritability or hostility might be signs of underlying depression. If these emerge, it is important to see professional help from a behavioral health specialist.

Elizabeth Nikol MA, is here to discuss the best ways to cope with serious health conditions.

Healthy Feet Are Happy Feet!

Summit Medical Group — Tue, 30 Jun 2015 04:27:22 +0000

Summer means flip-flops and sandals, toes dangling at the water’s edge or the feeling of cool grass under bare feet.

But summer can be hard on your feet - infection, injury and yes, sunburn, can take a toll on your tootsies!

Put you best foot forward this season with advice on summer foot health from Marco Ucciferri, DPM, Summit Medical Group podiatrist.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Effective Treatment

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 22 Jun 2015 15:05:47 +0000

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder in which people have recurring, unwanted thoughts, ideas or sensations (obsessions) that make them feel driven to do something repetitively (compulsions).

The repetitive behaviors, such as hand washing, checking on things, or cleaning, can significantly interfere with a person’s daily activities and social interactions.

OCD often begins in childhood, adolescence or early adulthood. Afflicting some 2.2 million Americans, OCD is equally common in men and women and across social classes and ethnicities.

Michael Likier, Ph.D. is here to discuss OCD its symptoms and treatments.

Do You Suffer From Headaches Due to Allergies?

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 15 Jun 2015 16:27:50 +0000

Although allergies are thought to cause headaches, the two are different conditions. Allergies can cause sinus congestion, which can then lead to headache pain.Two types of headaches are linked to allergies: sinus headaches and migraines.

Lisa Joseph, M.D., Summit Medical Group internist, shares insight into the link between allergies and headaches, including allergy headache triggers, symptoms, and how to get relief.

Child/Teen Oppositional Defiant Disorder

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 08 Jun 2015 14:27:17 +0000

Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is one of a group of behavioral disorders called disruptive behavior disorders (DBD).

Even the best-behaved children can be uncooperative and hostile at times, particularly adolescents, but those with ODD show a constant pattern of angry and verbally aggressive behaviors, usually aimed at parents and other authority figures.

The most common behaviors are; defiance, spitefulness,negativity, hostility and verbal aggression. Approximately between one and 16 percent of children and adolescents have ODD.

Listen in as Melissa Breslin, MA discusses ODD, its symptoms and treatments, so as a parent, you don't have to go it alone in trying to manage a child with ODD.

How to Heal the Pain in Your Heel -- Plantar Fasciitis

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 18 May 2015 16:10:46 +0000

A common condition of heel pain, plantar fasciitis affects about 2 million people per year.

Its painful, but in most cases, can be treated with out surgery or non-invasive procedures.

Marco Ucciferri, DPM , discusses common causes of plantar fasciitis, symptoms and treatment as well as how to prevent the occurrence of this condition.

Pets and Families: Staying Healthy and Happy

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 04 May 2015 15:04:01 +0000

Cats and dogs, gerbils and hamsters; fish, frogs, and turtles – we LOVE our pets!

Research shows that the bond between humans and animals is strong and can contribute to overall emotional and mental health.

But how can families stay physically healthy while caring for household pets?

Dr. Jill Gora, board-certified family medicine practitioner with Summit Medical Group, shares expertise and insight into the types of human illnesses that can be triggered through pet ownership and how, with proper attention, families can stay healthy and enjoy their pets.

Cardiac Health for Women: Why It’s Different

Summit Medical Group — Wed, 29 Apr 2015 03:40:11 +0000

All women face the threat of heart disease. However, the risks and symptoms are different for women. In fact, more women die each year from heart disease than men.

Learn the unique but serious signs of heart attack and heart disease in women, as well as prevention advice, from Nirmala Akkapeddi, MD, Summit Medical Group internist.

What is a Foot and Ankle Surgeon?

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 20 Apr 2015 17:00:00 +0000

Foot and ankle surgeons diagnose, treat and help people manage disorders of the foot and ankle.

They can provide comprehensive medical and surgical care for a broad spectrum of foot and ankle conditions and injuries that affect people of all ages.

Foot and ankle surgeons are uniquely qualified to detect the early stages of diseases that exhibit warning signs in the lower extremities: diabetes, arthritis and cardiovascular disease.

Tony Distefano, SMG foot and ankle surgeon, discusses how foot and ankle surgeons help manage these conditions and others which may pose an ongoing threat to a patient’s overall health.

Diabetes and Eye Health

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 06 Apr 2015 17:00:00 +0000

Diabetes can affect a person’s eyesight in many ways.

The American Diabetes Association reports that diabetics are 40% more likely to develop glaucoma, 60% more likely to develop cataracts and they are also susceptible to additional sight complications such as macular edema and retinopathy.

Summit Medical Group board-certified ophthalmologist Monica Khalil, MD, discusses these conditions and the critical importance of eye care – including an annual eye exam – for people with diabetes.

Your Eyes are Precious, Are You Worried About Glaucoma?

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 23 Mar 2015 17:00:00 +0000

Glaucoma is an eye condition that builds up pressure inside the eye.

According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, glaucoma is a complicated disease in which damage to the optic nerve leads to progressive, irreversible vision loss.

Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness.

Hamed Bazargan Lari, MD, Summit Medical Group ophthalmologist, presents the facts about glaucoma to help those affected take care of their eyes and take charge of their health.

Diabetes and Foot Health

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 09 Mar 2015 17:00:00 +0000

When you have diabetes, the importance of foot health and annual foot exams cannot be underestimated.

Research conducted by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that diabetes often causes problems with feet and legs, and these problems can be severe.

According to the CDC, amputations in people with diabetes account for more than 60% of the amputations of legs and feet not resulting from an injury.

Additionally, people with diabetes were eight times as likely to lose a leg or foot to amputation as people without diabetes.

Marco Ucciferri, podiatrist with Summit Medical Group, explains how diabetes affects foot health, discusses warning signs of failing foot health in diabetics and what the diabetic patient must do to keep their feet protected and healthy.

Working Together for Better Health : SMG Participates in AMGF Rheumatoid Arthritis Collaborative

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 09 Feb 2015 19:00:08 +0000

Summit Medical Group, New Jersey’s largest multispecialty medical group, was selected by the American Medical Group Foundation (AMGF) to participate in a national collaborative dedicated to finding best practices in managing patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Earlier this year, SMG received a $10,000 grant from AMGF and AbbVie to support their quality improvement efforts through participation in the collaborative. Working together with 17 other medical groups across the nation, SMG will facilitate the adoption, discovery, and spread of care processes that will improve the way in which RA patients experience the healthcare system.

A chronic disease with high morbidity, mortality and costs, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects approximately 1.3 million people in the U.S. In 2014, both the direct and indirect costs associated with RA were estimated to be $40 billion dollars, and could reach as high as $54 billion by 2030. The economic impact of RA is similar to, if not greater than, costs associated with more prevalent, chronic diseases such as diabetes.
Designed for organizations striving to improve the care of their RA patients, the collaborative is intended to leverage key learning and facilitate a “how-to” approach. Supported by an Advisory Committee of physicians and quality improvement experts, participants will gain mission-critical experience in engaging specialty departments such as rheumatology in performance measurement and improvement.

Medical Director for Population Health at SMG, Jamie Reedy, M.D., MPH, notes that the Group’s initiatives will focus on improving quality outcomes, access to timely care, and adherence to evidence-based guidelines. “We’re thrilled to have this opportunity to collaborate with other medical groups to improve the quality of care for RA patients. We look forward to engaging our RA patients in these improvements and partnering with them for better health outcomes,” she adds.

Through a yearlong series of activities, participating organizations will have the opportunity to test approaches and design care processes that are relevant to their clinical and operational models. As a result, best practices will be developed and shared around the work of the collaborative groups. The collaborative ends in August 2015.

Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 26 Jan 2015 19:00:56 +0000

Rheumatoid arthritis can be one of the most disabling types or arthritis.

An autoimmune disease that affects more than 1.3 million Americans every year, rheumatoid arthritis – “RA” – affects a person’s joints and many other parts of the body in many different ways.

Dr. Lauren Kennish, Summit Medical Group Rheumatologist, shares information on diagnosis and treatment of RA, as well as tips for living well.

Is It a Virus or a Bacterium? How to Tell the Difference

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 19 Jan 2015 19:00:23 +0000

The symptoms of a bacterial infection are very similar to symptoms of a viral infection, but each requires different treatments.

Knowing the difference between bacterial and viral infections can save you time and money.

Soma Mandal, Summit Medical Group internal medicine physician, decodes the important differences between these infections and when you need to see a doctor.

Importance of Colorectal Cancer Screening/Colonoscopies

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 12 Jan 2015 19:00:34 +0000

According to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States.

Colonoscopies remain the most powerful weapon in the prevention, early detection and treatment of colon cancer.

John M. Dalena, M.D., Summit Medical Group Gastroenterologist, discusses current screening guidelines and the benefits of this important preventive health test.

HIV: The Latest Research and Treatments

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 29 Dec 2014 19:00:37 +0000

HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is a lot like other viruses, including those that cause the flu or common cold.

However, HIV is very different in that your body’s immune system cannot clear out the HIV virus, like it can with some other viruses.

Once you have HIV, you have it for life.

Listen in as Dr. Anjum Hasan, Summit Medical Group Travel Medicine physician, reviews the basics of HIV – transmission, signs and symptoms, treatment and prevention.

How to Pack Healthy Lunches for Work or School

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 22 Dec 2014 19:04:09 +0000

Whether you are packing lunch for your school-age children or for yourself to take to work, what are the basics of eating a healthy lunch?

SMG internist and nutrition specialist, Solmaz Amirnazmi, M.D., shares information and insight on what types of foods to include or avoid in your lunch, add-ins that will make your lunch healthier, what types of healthy foods travel well to school and to work, and how to have a healthy mid-day meal when you are eating on the go.

Can Stress Raise Your Blood Pressure?

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 15 Dec 2014 19:15:13 +0000

Approximately 50 million Americans have hypertension -- systolic blood pressure of greater than 139 mm Hg or a diastolic blood pressure of greater than 89 mm Hg.

Although stress is not a direct cause of hypertension, in these day of long work days, holiday pressures, and constant status updates, stress has become a prevalent part of people's lives.

Its effects on blood pressure, therefore, are becoming more relevant and important.

• Stress can lead to repeated blood pressure elevations, which eventually may to hypertension.
• Stress factors affecting blood pressure include white coat hypertension, job stress, race and, social environment, and emotional factors..
• When one risk factor is coupled with other stress producing factors, the effect on blood pressure is multiplied.

To talk about stress factors that can affect blood pressure and how to manage both for better long-term health is Dr. Ellen Lunenfeld, Summit Medical Group hypertension specialist.

Do You Suffer from Female Incontinence? There is Help!

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 08 Dec 2014 20:00:57 +0000

Urinary incontinence is the accidental release of urine triggered by a cough, laugh or sneeze, during exercise, or not getting to the bathroom in time.

While UI is not a major health problem, it can cause significant embarrassment and limit a person’s ability to enjoy favorite activies.

Women are affected nearly twice as often as men by UI.

Rhonda Walsh, M.D., Summit Medical Group urologist, discusses the types, causes and treatment for urinary incontinence, paying special attention to the needs of women with this condition.

Are You Considering Long Term Contraception?

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 08 Dec 2014 20:00:06 +0000

Long-term contraception is a highly-effective, non-permanent method for preventing pregnancy.

Unlike other methods that need to be thought about on a daily, weekly, or even monthly basis, long-term contraceptives are safe, reliable and come in a variety of options.

Christine Masterson, M.D., FACOG, Director of the Women and Children service line at Summit Medical Group, talks about these methods -- their benefits, risks, and precautions -- and how to choose the right one for you.

Can You Prevent Osteoporosis with Calcium and Vitamin D?

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 01 Dec 2014 19:00:36 +0000

Osteoporosis is a common disorder that causes a progressive loss in bone density and mass, resulting in bones that become thin, weak, and easily fractured.

It is estimated that more than 1.3 million osteoporosis-associated (or "osteoporotic") fractures occur every year in the United States.

Dr. Rashmi Srinivas, SMG family medicine practitioner, shares the critical role good nutrition plays in preventing osteoporosis.

Drowsy Driving Prevention

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 20:00:55 +0000

You would never drink and drive, but if you are like many Americans you have probably driven when you are tired without a second thought.

Yet fatigue while driving is more serious than you may think. The National Sleep Foundation estimates that 168 million people have “driven drowsy” in the past year.

Dr. Soma Mandal, Summit Medical Group internist, tells us why so many people drive drowsy and gives important information on preventing this dangerous health habit.

Preparations and Precautions for Holiday Travel

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 20:00:55 +0000

Today’s news headlines can make travelers wary.

With the fall and winter travel seasons approaching, what should people know about Ebola and other infectious diseases?

Summit Medical Group travel medicine physician, Anjum Hasan, M.D., shares important information on precautions and preparations for travel during the Ebola outbreak and how you can “travel well” during the coming holiday season.

Palliative Care

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 17 Nov 2014 20:04:37 +0000

Palliative care is specialized medical care that helps to relieve the pain, treatment side effects and stress often caused by a serious illness.

Through its multidisciplinary, holistic approach for body, mind and spirit, palliative care focuses on quality of life for patients with a serious illness.

Dr. Michelle Cajulis, Summit Medical Group internist, shares the vital role palliative care plays in treatment for serious illness and how patients and their families can benefit.

Pap Smear Guidelines: What You Should Know

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 17 Nov 2014 19:00:31 +0000

The United States Preventive Task Force and the American Cancer Society released new guidelines for cervical cancer screenings – PAP and HPV for women ages 21- 65.

Summit Medical Group family medicine physician, Dr. Rashmi Srinivas, discusses the new guidelines and resources for keeping up-to-date on these preventive health measures.

Mediterranean Diet: The Myths, the Facts and the Food

Summit Medical Group — Tue, 04 Nov 2014 00:41:41 +0000

Good food is a powerful health booster and the Mediterranean Diet has been known to provide health benefits such as:
lowering cholesterol, weight loss, arthritis relief, and reduced risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and various types of cancer.

SMG Internist and nutrition specialist, Solmaz Amirnazmi, MD talks about the Mediterranean Diet , what it really involves, and how it can help you live a longer, healthier life.

Extensivist Medicine At Summit Medical Group

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 27 Oct 2014 17:00:56 +0000

If you have been hospitalized for a surgery, procedure, or an injury that leaves you with impairments, your doctor might recommend follow-up treatment in a rehabilitation center until you become strong enough to manage activities of daily living and be independent.

Our Extensivist Medicine team is comprised of board-certified physicians and nurse practitioners who are trained and experienced in geriatric medicine, internal medicine, family medicine, and rehabilitation medicine.

They help arrange the comprehensive care you need to regain your strength, lessen the time you must stay at the rehabilitation facility, return safely home, and prevent you from returning to the hospital.

Pediatric Cardiology – Former Child Heart Patient Now A Cardiologist

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 20 Oct 2014 17:00:39 +0000

In 1958 at age five, Donald Leichter, MD, Summit Medical Group pediatric cardiologist, was one of the first generation to undergo open heart surgery.

Now a pediatric cardiologist whose son was also born with a heart defect, Dr. Leichter knows well the challenges parents face when their child is diagnosed with a heart problem.

Dr. Leichter specializes in diagnosing and treating heart conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. He has extensive experience with everything from common heart murmurs to rare, complex heart defect.

Listen in as Dr. Leichter shares his story and gives great advice to parents of children with heart problems.

Exercise Related Respiratory Difficulties In Children

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 20 Oct 2014 17:00:34 +0000

Exercise intolerance is an important and common symptom in the evaluation of pediatric respiratory disorders.

Although medical exercise science has traditionally been dominated by the field of cardiology, the majority of pediatric exercise intolerance is caused by respiratory conditions, especially when congenital heart disease is not present.

Gary L. Kohn, MD is here to discuss exercise intolerance and it's ability to help evaluate pediatric respiratory disorders.

What Women Need to Know About Breast Density

Summit Medical Group — Thu, 02 Oct 2014 03:37:19 +0000

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and this year, the focus is on breast density. Breast density describes the proportion of the different tissues that make up a woman’s breasts. On a mammogram, the areas of breast and connective tissue seen are compared to the area(s) of fat.

Breast and connective tissue are denser than fat and this difference shows up on a mammogram High breast density means there is a greater amount of breast and connective tissue compared to fat.

Low breast density means there is a greater amount of fat compared to breast and connective tissue.

Here to talk about breast density, mammograms and other ways of imaging dense breasts as well as the new law requiring information on breast density to be sent to women is John Cunningham, M.D., Director of the Summit Medical Group Breast Care Center.

Surgery for Fecal Incontinence

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 15 Sep 2014 19:26:00 +0000

There are many causes of fecal incontinence.

Often not discussed due to embarrassment, patients with this condition may experience a range of symptoms, from mild difficulty to severe loss of control.

Dr. Kevin Holzman, Summit Medical Group board-certified colorectal surgeon, offers information on a unique surgery to restore bowel control and improve one’s quality of life.

Management of Heart Attacks (With Emergency Cardiac Intervention)

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 28 Jul 2014 17:00:00 +0000

Heart attacks, caused by a blood clot that blocks one of the coronary arteries, can be fatal.

Prompt treatment is crucial. Treatment for heart attack has improved significantly over the years.

Here to discuss the management of heart attacks with emergency cardiac intervention is SMG cardiologist, Kenneth Miller, MD, FACC, FSCAI.

Asthma

Summit Medical Group — Wed, 23 Jul 2014 18:05:30 +0000

A lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways, asthma has no cure.

It affects more than 25 million of Americans on a daily basis and nearly 25% of all asthma sufferers are children.

Board-certified Summit Medical Group allergist and immunologist, Alan J. Goodman, will discuss different types of asthma, asthma triggers, symptoms, and the treatment and management of this chronic condition.

CoolSculpting

Summit Medical Group — Tue, 15 Jul 2014 17:00:00 +0000

CoolSculpting® is a revolutionary non-surgical contouring treatment that freezes stubborn fat, which then is naturally eliminated from your body.

No needles, no special diets, no supplements, no surgery. And most importantly, no downtime.

It’s safe, FDA-cleared and effective. Results look natural and can be seen as early as three weeks following treatment, with the most dramatic results after one to three months.

Diabetes

Summit Medical Group — Fri, 11 Jul 2014 17:00:00 +0000

If you don’t have diabetes, you probably know someone who does.

An estimated 23.6 million people in the United States have diabetes. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), it is a major cause of heart disease and stroke and can lead to other complications, such as vision loss, kidney failure, and amputations of legs or feet.

Effective glucose control, as measured by A1c levels, and blood pressure control can prevent or delay these complications. Summit Medical Group’s Certified Diabetes Educator, Margaret Eckler, gives advice for the prevention and management of diabetes.

Allergic Rhinitis

Summit Medical Group — Thu, 10 Jul 2014 17:00:00 +0000

Runny nose, sneezing watery eyes, itchy eyes or skin – these symptoms and more are caused by allergic rhinitis, an overreaction of your immune system to an allergen.

Most allergens are typically harmless substances such as pollen, pet dander, mold and more.

Diagnosing, treating and helping you manage rhinitis and other allergy, asthma, and sinus-related concerns is the specialty of Dr. Alan Goodman, Allergist/Immunologist with Summit Medical Group.

Acupuncture

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 23 Jun 2014 17:00:00 +0000

Acupuncture is among the oldest healing practices in the world. It is used to diagnose, treat, and prevent disease. It also can be used to maintain wellness and adjust to changes in the seasons.

At Summit Medical Group, acupuncture is used with traditional medical practices as a complementary approach to help patients achieve and maintain their health goals.

Gallbladder Surgery

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 21 Apr 2014 17:00:00 +0000

Surgery to remove the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) can become necessary for many reasons:

Moderate to severe gallstones and inflammation of the bile duct can send someone to the hospital with intense pain. Inflammation of the abdominal lining (peritonitis) , high pressure in the blood vessels near the liver (portal hypertension) and other conditions might make it necessary to see a surgeon about these conditions.

Gallbladder surgery can be done laparoscopically – with several small incisions in the abdomen – or, via open surgery with a single large incision in the abdomen.

Dr. Richard Nitzberg, board-certified surgeon with Summit Medical Group, has performed more than 2,000 laparoscopic gallbladder surgeries.

He discusses all the “ins and outs” of laparoscopic gallbladder surgeries.

Measure Up, Pressure Down

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 07 Apr 2014 17:00:00 +0000

Summit Medical Group is participating in the American Medical Group Foundation (AMGF) Measure Up/Pressure Down National Campaign.

This campaign is created to raise awareness among patients, employers, and communities about the dangers of uncontrolled high blood pressure and to achieve lasting improvements in blood pressure control that lead the way to greater health for all Americans.

Do You Know Your Numbers? If you have a family history of high blood pressure or a history of hypertension yourself, studies show that you should at least strive for an initial goal to keep blood pressure below 140/90.

For more information: Measure Up Pressure Down

High Blood Pressure Contender For Your Health

Melanoma Screening and Prevention

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 24 Mar 2014 17:00:00 +0000

Melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer is a screenable, preventable cancer, yet one that is dramatically increasing.

It is the leading cause of death from a skin disease. Key to successful treatment of melanoma is understanding risks and recognizing symptoms early.

Fevers in Children: How High is Too High?

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 10 Mar 2014 17:00:00 +0000

Your child has a fever –now what? A high temperature can be alarming, but when should you call your pediatrician and when is a fever a real emergency?

From causes to treatment, Dr. David Levine talks about the facts – and the myths - regarding fevers in children.

Lovely Legs for Spring

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 24 Feb 2014 19:00:00 +0000

Warmer will eventually get here and that means spring breaks, summer vacations and more reason to wear dresses, skirts, shorts, and bathing suits!

However, many people will do whatever it takes to cover up because they have varicose and spider veins.

Dr. Richard Nitzberg runs the Vein Center at Summit Medical Group and offers solutions to give you lovely legs.

Hospitalist Medicine

Summit Medical Group — Sun, 23 Feb 2014 19:00:00 +0000

You're in the hospital and expecting a visit from your regular doctor.

Instead, you get a visit from a hospitalist.

Who are hospitalists and what do they do for you when you are hospitalized?

Dr. Evangeline Gutierrez discusses what hospitalist medicine is and the benefits of being cared for by a hospitalist.

Knee Arthritis in Middle-Aged Athletes

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 17 Feb 2014 19:00:00 +0000

Do your achy knees keep you from performing your best?

Osteoarthritis (OA), prevalent in today's athletic and recreationally active "middle-aged" population, is a degenerative condition that commonly affects the knee joint.

If you have knee pain, but want to stay active, in-shape and competitive what should you do?

Find out about the many ways you can manage osteoarthritis in your knee right here on SMG Radio.

Eczema and Winter Skin

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 10 Feb 2014 19:00:00 +0000

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a long-term skin disorder that can involves red, scaly and itchy patches.

Cold, dry winter air and changes in the environment – from outdoors to indoors – can aggravate this condition, but relief is on the way!

Dr. Altman will discuss strategies for prevention and treatment of eczema and how to cope with the effects of winter on already sensitive skin.

Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 21 Oct 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Gall bladder surgery is one of the most common operations in the U.S. and worldwide.

William L. Diehl, MD, FACS, Summit Medical Group board-certified general surgeon, gives an overview of how our gall bladder functions, why gall bladder "attacks" occur, and -- when gall bladder removal is necessary -- the benefits of using minimally-invasive surgical techniques.

The Advantages of Robotic Surgery

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 14 Oct 2013 14:00:00 +0000

In operating rooms these days, you're likely to find nurses, doctors -- and robots!

Robotic surgery's helping hands can be used for a variety of procedures. They remove gallbladders and kidneys, replace hips and do hysterectomies, cut out cancer tissue and perform coronary artery bypasses. Robotic surgery also means shorter hospital stays, faster recoveries and smaller scars.

Listen in as William L. Diehl, MD, FACS, Summit Medical Group board-certified general surgeon, discusses the advantages of robotic surgery.

Non-invasive Procedures in Plastic Surgery

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 07 Oct 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Fine lines, wrinkles and other unwelcome signs of aging can now be treated using non-invasive and minimally invasive techniques. Botox, Fraxel laser, and other treatments can provide natural, refreshing results, right in the doctor's office!

Get an overview of these techniques and more with Reza Momeni, MD, board-certified plastic surgeon with Summit Medical Group.

Ultherapy: A New Non-Surgical Procedure

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 30 Sep 2013 14:00:00 +0000

If you've thought about having a facelift, but having surgery made you think twice, consider Ultherapy.

Using ultrasound technology, FDA-approved Ultherapy lifts and tightens facial and neck skin -- without surgery!

Reza Momeni, MD, board-certified plastic surgeon with Summit Medical Group, share details on this exciting treatment and who can benefit.

Breast Care Center at Summit

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 16 Sep 2013 14:00:00 +0000

How important is a woman's breast health and what should she be doing to to protect the health of her breasts?

Clinical Program Manager and a certified breast nurse patient navigator for the Summit Medical Group Breast Nurse Navigation Program, Carol Boyer, RN, MSN, APN, CBPN-IC, AOCNS, gives details on the three-fold approach recommended by the American Cancer Society. Supported by Summit Medical Group's Breast Care Center, this approach is designed to maintain optimal breast health and detect abnormalities early.

Nurse Navigation at the Breast Care Center

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 16 Sep 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Receiving the news that you have a breast abnormality can be frightening and confusing - what do you do next?

Nurse Navigation at Summit Medical Group's Breast Care Center is a process designed to help a woman through and around barriers to getting breast health care services.

Clinical Program Manager and a certified breast nurse patient navigator for the Summit Medical Group Breast Nurse Navigation Program, Carol Boyer, RN, MSN, APN, CBPN-IC, AOCNS, explains the navigation process and what a woman can expect upon entering the nurse navigation program.

New Technologies in Hearing Aids

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 26 Aug 2013 14:00:00 +0000

What's new in hearing aids? From digital technology to implantable, removable and non-invasive solutions, this is not your grandma's hearing aid.

Dr. Jed Kwartler, otologist/neurotologist and director of Summit Medical Group's Ear Specialty Center gives an overview of updates in hearing aid technology and discusses auditory rehabilitation -- maximizing your listening environment - with today's innovations.

Dr. Kwartler gives details on SoundBite, the world’s first removable and noninvasive hearing solution for patients with single-sided deafness or chronic ear canal problems. Summit Medical Group is among the first centers in New Jersey to offer the Soundbite hearing solution. Learn more about this state-of-the-art device with Dr. Kwartler.

Hearing Loss

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 19 Aug 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Do you or someone you love suffer from hearing loss? Hearing loss can be frustrating and debilitating. It can seriously impact a person's quality of life and is some cases, even become life-threatening.

Dr. Jed Kwartler, board-certified otologist/neurotologist and director of Summit Medical Group's Ear Specialty Center, talks about the signs and symptoms and diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss.

Are You Considering Breast Augmentation?

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 12 Aug 2013 14:00:00 +0000

If you are dissatisfied with the size and appearance of your breasts, breast augmentation surgery might before you.

Breast augmentation is a procedure to place implants in the breast(s) to:

Enlarge naturally small breasts
Restore volume to the breasts following breast-feeding or weight loss
Achieve symmetry in breasts that are moderately different in shape and size
Enhance confidence and self-esteem

Dr. Peter Hyans, board-certified plastic surgeon and director of Summit Medical Group's Plastic Surgery Center, discusses the procedure and what you can expect.

Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomies

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 05 Aug 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Breast reconstruction is a procedure performed on a woman to restore the breasts after a lumpectomy or a mastectomy.

It is achieved through several plastic surgery techniques to return the breasts to near normal shape, size and appearance and can be performed on one or both of a woman's breasts.

If you are in need of breast reconstructive surgery, listen to Dr. Peter Hyans, board-certified plastic surgeon and director of Summit Medical Group's Plastic Surgery Center, discuss who is a good candidate for this surgery and what patients can expect from this procedure.

Spotting and Treating Concussions

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 29 Jul 2013 14:00:00 +0000

The signs and symptoms of a concussion may be subtle and sometimes not immediately apparent. Do you know how to spot a concussion? Some early signs include, headache, dizziness, blurry vision and nausea and these signs can get worse if unattended.

Whether you are a parent, coach or athlete, this is must have information. Dr. Rosenberg shares signs, symptoms and how to care for and prevent concussions.

Osteoarthritis: Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 22 Jul 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and affects millions across the world.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative process of the joints. As we age, the spongy cushion like substance at the edge of each joint known as cartilage wears away and the bone starts to feel more mechanical stress.

Learn the symptoms, various treatment options to best alleviate pain and when joint replacement surgery may be necessary.

Correcting Previous Surgical Weight Loss Procedures

Summit Medical Group — Mon, 15 Jul 2013 14:00:00 +0000

There may be a few different reasons patients that have previously had gastric bypass surgery would seek revisional weight loss surgery. The most common being lapband removal.

Perhaps, there was a complication or simply failed weight loss.

Bad behavior often leads to small pouch stretching which then allows more food intake. Simple lifestyle changes can help make your surgery successful.

Learn reasons you may require revisional surgery and how you can help avoid the bad behavior that may be the cause.

Is Bariatric Surgery for You?

Summit Medical Group — Fri, 05 Jul 2013 14:00:00 +0000

More than 60 million Americans are considered obese. When diet and exercise does not work, surgery may become an option.

Weight loss surgery, otherwise known as, bariatric surgery has become a viable treatment option these days, especially to those individuals that are considered morbidly obese.

The goal of bariatric surgery is to limit the caloric intake and can sometimes have hormonal benefits to help decrease appetite.

This form of surgery is not intended to be an "easy way out." Find out if you or a loved one may be a candidate for weight loss surgery and what you can expect before, during and after surgery.