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A history of designing around patients' needs

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Private rooms. Warm, inviting, open spaces. Calming colors and plenty of windows allow sunlight to brighten the interior. Nursing stations centrally located on units. These are just a few benefits our patients and visitors noticed the day the new Genesis Hospital opened on Saturday, June 27, 2015.

 

The day was historic as years of planning and construction came to fruition in a modern facility designed around the needs of patients. “When we began to plan the new hospital, we talked with patients, their families, doctors, nurses and others in the community,” said Matt Perry, President & CEO of Genesis HealthCare System. “We wanted to know what they wanted in a hospital – what was important to them. Their input drove how we designed everything, from the main lobby to surgery to every detail of patient rooms and more.”

 

An example of this approach is evident in the Genesis Cancer Care Center. Patients receiving chemotherapy sit in comfortable chairs in an area that overlooks the beautiful Gorsuch Fitness Trail.

 

Each chair has heated massage options to provide comfort. Instead of having patients make trips around the center to see members of the care team, the care team comes to them in the chemotherapy area.

 

Even with all these physical improvements, perhaps the most important feature of the new hospital was how our staff redesigned over 400 patient care processes that dramatically improved their ability to provide each patient the very best, highest quality care. After all, our dedicated team of healthcare professionals are Genesis, and we were determined to provide a facility design that enabled them to provide you the very best care.

 

Building a future in Southeastern Ohio

“The entire team of healthcare professionals at Genesis is committed to caring for you like family to exceed your expectations every day.”

 

While Genesis Hospital has been the largest construction project in Genesis’ 25 years, it is not the only one by far. Several new facilities have been built, each designed to meet the needs of the people in their community. The Genesis Perry County Medical Center opened as a 24/7 Emergency Department in Somerset in 2018.

 

All of Genesis’ orthopedic providers moved into the new Genesis Orthopedic Center located on Bell Street in Zanesville in December 2021. Patients see their orthopedic specialists, have therapies and even visit the Orthopedic Walk-in Clinic without traveling from building to building.

 

Genesis is set to open a new facility in Coshocton – the Genesis Coshocton Medical Center – in early 2023. The center will feature a 24/7 Emergency Department; an overnight observation unit, physician specialists such as surgeons; an outpatient surgery center; physical, occupational and speech therapies, a lab draw center and more.

 

“Healthcare has gone through tremendous changes in the last 25 years. Genesis has evolved through the years to meet the challenges and fulfill our Mission: We serve our community by helping each person achieve optimal health and well-being by providing compassionate, exceptional and affordable healthcare services,” said Matt. “The entire team of healthcare professionals at Genesis is committed to caring for you like family to exceed your expectations every day.”

 

 

Designing

Building a future in Southeastern Ohio.

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Maximizing technology to maximize health

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Why do hospitals invest in the latest and greatest advancements in technology? Is it to increase efficiency? To ensure safety and precision? To reduce pain and improve healing? Well, yes, all of those. But most importantly, the teams at Genesis HealthCare System believe technology enhances compassionate healthcare.

“Some people think that when you start using technology, you lose human touch and human connection, but the opposite is true,” said Ed Romito, Chief Transformation Officer at Genesis HealthCare System. “At Genesis, we aim to maximize human connection and health by utilizing the benefits of technology.”

Ed began his information technology career with the hospital 27 years ago, just before Good Samaritan and Bethesda hospitals merged to form Genesis. Back then, computer networks were in their infancy, and Genesis initially had only 300 personal computers (mostly used for finance). Today, as Genesis celebrates its 25th anniversary, the organization has approximately 4,000 personal computers, and the technology has grown to impact and improve nearly every touchpoint in patient care.

Pairing technology and hospital care: An Epic undertaking

For the past five years, CHIME (the College for Healthcare Information Management Executives) has recognized Genesis as one of the Most Wired Health Systems. Genesis is also listed on the national Top 100 Places to Work in IT by IDG Computerworld. Both distinguished designations became possible because of innovative technology advancements made during the past 25 years.

 

“Genesis is a progressive, innovative organization – never stagnant. We’re always looking to be the most sophisticated community hospital and use technology to enable safer, faster and better healthcare.”

 

For example, examine our electronic medical system, Epic. It’s the best in the world. When we implemented Epic in 2010, Epic was typically only used in large academic medical centers. Still, Genesis decided to move forward and bring this world-class technology to Southeastern Ohio,” Ed said. “We are continually innovating, using the best technology that is powered by our phenomenal team of IT professionals, the best in the country.”

Our vision is One Patient – One Record. Genesis advanced from paper to electronic medical records to enable a single medical record for each patient allowing quick access to current patient records to every member of the patient’s care team and our patients via MyChart. This provides for more coordinated and efficient care. The “epic” undertaking is just one of many advances.

For example, over a decade ago, Genesis invested in robotic-assisted surgical instruments called the da Vinci Surgical System. Bringing robotic technology into operating rooms expanded possibilities beyond what’s possible with the human eyes and hands. With 3D high-definition, surgeons see crystal-clear views magnified ten times stronger than the natural human eye. Plus, tiny instruments offer greater control and range of motion than human hands, making less invasive, smoother and more precise movements.

“The da Vinci Surgical System allows us to deliver safer surgical treatment to our patients, enabling shorter recovery times that allow our patients to get back to their normal lives more quickly. It’s amazing,” Ed said.

Since 2010, Genesis surgeons have completed more than 2,000 surgeries using the da Vinci technology.

Increasing knowledge and health with artificial intelligence

Advancements in technology at Genesis continue moving at a very rapid pace but as the technology increases in capabilities, so does the amount of collected data. To ensure the data is analyzed, organized and used to best help patients, Genesis is enlisting artificial intelligence (AI).

“It’s impossible for a human to fully consume and understand the massive amount of information available. So, we’re using computers to do what computers do best, analyze and present information in a more usable format– and that allows our teams to focus on the human connection in caring for patients,” Ed said.

For example, Genesis uses AI to monitor hospitalized patients on more than 80 data points, like vital signs, lab results, medications, etc. When data points identify potential problems in a patient’s health, the AI alerts the medical team so the patient can receive fast, early assistance. “There’s no way a person could monitor all 250 patients in the hospital on all these points of health. This kind of AI  provides warning signs and alerts the care team so they can take action before the situation becomes serious,” Ed said.

The future looks techy and terrific

In the past 25 years, Genesis has made tremendous investments in state-of-the-art technologies at a very rapid pace and will continue to bring new advanced technology to provide safe, innovative, life-saving technology to southeastern Ohio.

“I believe we’ll continue an upward trajectory of healthcare technology. I don’t see it stopping or slowing down, which is exciting. I look forward to seeing what happens at Genesis during the next 25 years.” Ed said.

 

Ed Romito, Chief Transformation Officer at Genesis HealthCare System, talks about technology advancements.

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Genesis HealthCare System celebrates 25 years of caring

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

 

It began as two healthcare organizations merged into one, then two hospital buildings merged into one, but the singular purpose within Genesis HealthCare System remains the same: Helping each person achieve optimal health and well-being by providing compassionate, exceptional and affordable healthcare services.

“At Genesis, we help our community obtain optimal health,” said Sharon Parker, Chief Operations Officer (COO) at Genesis. “However, providing treatment is not enough. Over the last 25 years, I’ve been blessed to work with amazing colleagues to evolve our services. My focus is to provide care the way I’d want to be treated if I or a family member were the patient. Every team member at Genesis supports that concept.”

Sharon began her medical career as a patient care technician in Zanesville while attending nursing school nearly 43 years ago. She has played a key role in advancing Genesis services, first as director of the Cancer Care Center and now as COO for all Genesis services. Over the years, she has experienced the care at Genesis through various procedures for herself, her husband and their children.

“I helped start the cancer services program and we designed it with our patients’ perspectives in mind. Patients and families wanted all medical providers working together for the best possible outcomes for each unique individual. We spent a lot of time conducting research and then worked with an architect who could make the vision come to life,” said Sharon.

Genesis Cancer Care Center: Close-to-home care for the entire cancer journey

With cancer diagnoses increasing in the United States, having state-of-the-art cancer care close to home is essential. That’s why, in 2015, Genesis opened a dedicated Cancer Care Center to provide personalized, comprehensive expertise and treatment.

“By bringing in additional physicians, we developed a strong multidisciplinary team that offers cancer patients a convenient, close-to-home place to receive coordinated care. Patients could potentially have imaging, lab work, palliative care, medical oncology and radiation oncology visits all in one day here, saving them valuable time and energy,” Sharon said.

The patient-centered, nationally accredited center also includes nurse navigators, an in-house pharmacy and certified surgeons. Beyond treatment, we also addressed the psychological elements of care. The new center includes private chemotherapy pods that are a calming oasis with floor-to-ceiling views of our nature trail that wildlife often visits.

Having all cancer care services available in one center provides convenience for patients and increases communication between cancer care team members. “Our patients rave about the coordination of care, and our physicians appreciate the quick access to their colleagues. It’s routine for our physicians to have conversations about treatment plans so they’re all on the same page. The closeness ensures each patient receives an evidence-based plan of care personalized for their situation,” Sharon said.

A dedicated place for heart health and healing: The Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute

Modeled after the same comprehensive structure as the Genesis Cancer Care Center, Genesis developed a dedicated heart and vascular center. The Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute opened in 2015 and sits opposite the Genesis Cancer Care Center on the Genesis Hospital campus.

The Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute includes the Congestive Heart Failure Clinic, Vein Center, Anticoagulation Clinic, cardiac rehabilitation gym, cardiac catheterization lab, electrophysiology lab and nutrition services.

“Whether patients need open-heart surgery, cardiac rehabilitation or nutrition counseling, they can get it all here. Plus, patients enjoy that hometown feeling at Genesis and the fact that top-quality healthcare that’s close to home costs less than larger facilities that are farther away,” Sharon said.

The Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute became the first fully accredited chest pain center in Southeastern Ohio in 2009. Known for advanced care, the institute’s fellowship-trained, board-certified physicians perform groundbreaking roboticassisted and minimally invasive treatments. By using innovative technology and techniques, patients benefit from smaller incisions, less risks and quicker healing.

Quality and compassion

With its Cancer Care Center and the Heart & Vascular Institute devoted to the best treatment options, it’s no wonder Genesis’ outcomes and patient experience scores rank among the highest in the state and nation.In addition to providing excellent results, Genesis focuses onproviding an excellent healing environment.

“Having dedicated buildings where all physicians and services are available in a close-knit space ensures compassionate, wrap-around care. So, when a patient is diagnosed with a health challenge, we can wrap our arms around them and take care of everything – coordination, communication and quality treatment. They don’t have to worry about anything,” Sharon said.

For the past 25 years, Genesis has served residents in Muskingum, Morgan, Perry, Coshocton, Noble and Guernsey counties with that mission in mind.

 

Sharon Parker, Chief Operations Officer, reflects on the past 25 years at Genesis HealthCare System

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Welcome new physicians

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Clifford B. Maximo, M.D., FACS

Genesis Urology Group

For Clifford B. Maximo, M.D., Urologist, who joined the Genesis Urology Group in February, practicing urology is a family and local tradition.


“I am a second-generation urologist,” he said. Zosimo Maximo M.D., now retired, was a well-respected urologist in Southeastern Ohio. “However, I chose urology because I was impressed with the specialty during my internship at the Cleveland Clinic,” said Dr. Maximo. “I saw cutting-edge, complex, kidney cancer surgery and endourologic stone treatment by nationally known urologists, which shaped my decision to pursue urology,” he said.

Dr. Maximo, who has practiced for more than 20 years in Southeastern Ohio, is pleased to continue treating local patients. “My mission is to serve Southeast Ohio, where I grew up and spent most of my life,” he said. “I take pride in the early detection of both prostate and bladder cancer along with treatment of stone disease and men’s health issues.”

Dr. Maximo believes one of the biggest challenges in urology is preventing urologic disease and cancer. “Scientists and clinicians are working hard to solve these problems,” he said. “Fortunately, urology is very advanced at the detection and treatment of urologic cancer and stone disease.”

Genesis utilizes all of the state-of-the-art urologic technology, including robotic-assisted surgery, MRI fusion biopsy, ESWL and high-powered holmium laser. “I love to treat my patients using the best tools available. However, good-old handshakes and face-to-face discussion are important.”

Dr. Maximo enjoys exercising, spending time with his family and watching his children play sports. His office is at the Genesis Urology Group office, Genesis Medical Arts Building 2, 751 Forest Ave., Suite 301, Zanesville. Dr. Maximo’s phone number is 740-455-4923 and he is accepting new patients. Physician referrals are not required.

 

Getachew Zeleke, M.D., FACC

Genesis Heart & Vascular Group

Getachew Zeleke, M.D., who joined the Genesis Heart & Vascular Group in February, learned in medical school that cardiovascular diseases are the number one health problem in the world. “That’s when I started to develop an interest,” Dr. Zeleke said.

Originally from Ethiopia, Dr. Zeleke’s devotion to treating cardiovascular disease came into focus when his father suffered a massive heart attack. “Back then, Ethiopia’s health facilities were not capable of doing heart catheterization and stenting,” he said. Dr. Zeleke and his family were desperate. “My father was treated with medications, and we prayed,” he said. Luckily, his father survived. “It was then that I decided to study cardiovascular disease,” Dr. Zeleke said. Diagnostic modalities common to the USA are scarce and, in some cases, nonexistent in Ethiopia. Dr. Zeleke said, “Ethiopian doctors rely on family health histories and perform thorough physical examinations for diagnosis and treatment.

“Practicing medicine in a resource-limited setting has taught me to get to know my patients and their problems. A higher percentage of Appalachians suffer from cardiovascular disease than the rest of the country. I’m grateful to help bring good heart health to the community.”

During his spare time, Dr. Zeleke works out, plays soccer, bikes and swims. “I like watching documentaries,” he said. “I also enjoy fishing, hiking and traveling.”

Dr. Zeleke’s office is located at the Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute, 955 Bethesda Drive, First Floor, Zanesville. His office phone number is 740-454-0804. Dr. Zeleke is accepting new patients, and a physician referral is not required.

 

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Meet our new urologist, Clifford B. Maximo, M.D., FACS; and cardiologist Getachew Zeleke, M.D., FACC.

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Muskingum County’s only 24/7 pharmacy

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

A new Northside Pharmacy is coming soon to 721 Taylor St. in Zanesville. It will be Muskingum County’s only 24/7 pharmacy, giving you round-the-clock access to a pharmacist to fill or refill prescriptions and answer your medication questions. 


The new pharmacy will have goods and over-the-county medication for purchase during typical store hours. Easy drive-through access and plenty of parking will make this new location a convenient customer experience.

A new Northside Pharmacy is coming soon to 721 Taylor St. in Zanesville. It will be Muskingum County’s only 24/7 pharmacy, giving you round-the-clock access to a pharmacist to fill or refill prescriptions and answer your medication questions.

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Welcome new physicians

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Abdul Dada, M.D.
Genesis Primary Care


Doctor of Medicine: Saint James School of Medicine in Anguilla
Family Medicine Residency: AMITA Health Saints Mary and Elizabeth Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois


“Medicine is changing from a physician to a patient-centered approach,” said Abdul Dada, M.D., who joined Genesis Primary Care as a family physician in September. “We now ask patients for input on their treatment,” he said. “This is a great way to practice because if patients are reluctant to do something the physician tells them, they may not do it. However, if patients are involved in the medical decision making, they will be more inclined to do what helps them.”

Dr. Dada chose family practice because it covers the entire scope of medicine. “This is the type of medicine I want to be a part of,” Dr. Dada said. “I want to be a physician who can treat any patient with any problem. Typically, primary care physicians can treat most patients’ problems.”


“A common misconception about what I do is that I just prescribe medications and tell people to go on about their day,” Dr. Dada said. “This is not how family medicine works. We are in a field where communication and working together is of utmost importance.” He said rarely does a patient arrive, tell him his or her symptoms and leave the office with a prescription. 
“During visits, I talk to the patient about things they may be going through to get to know them better,” Dr. Dada said.

Dr. Dada enjoys playing basketball in his free time. “I try to play three or four times a week, and I’m in a league right now,” he said. “I also enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I could be doing anything and enjoy it as long as I am with the people I love.”

Dr. Dada is located at Genesis Primary Care, 1210 Ashland Ave., Zanesville and is accepting new patients. His office phone number is 740-454-0370.

 


Dany Abou Abdallah. M.D.
Pulmonary/Critical Care Medicine


Doctor of Medicine: Saint-Joseph University in Beirut, Lebanon
Board-certified: Pulmonary, critical care and sleep medicine
Sleep Medicine Fellowship: The Medical College of Ohio, The Toledo Sleep Disorders Center in Toledo, Ohio
Pulmonary Critical Care Medicine Fellowship: SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, New York
Internal Medicine Residency: Cleveland Clinic Health System in Cleveland, Ohio


A good night’s sleep is critical, according to Dany Abou Abdallah, M.D., who joined Genesis Pulmonary & Critical Care Specialists in September. Most Americans are sleep deprived; however, Dr. Abou Abdallah said studies strongly support the potential dangers of sleep deprivation on cognition and work performance. Unfortunately, taking a nap will not solve sleep deprivation. “The best resolution for lack of sleep is to have a restful and regular sleep-wake schedule,” he said.


The field of critical care medicine and its disciplines fascinated Dr. Abou Abdallah during his training in internal medicine. He chose pulmonary medicine as his second specialty so he could treat critically ill patients whose condition affects their respiratory systems. “My background in pulmonary medicine enables me to treat patients who have acute lung diseases and manage those who have chronic respiratory diseases,” Dr. Abou Abdallah said.


“I chose to specialize in sleep medicine after I noticed sleep or lack of sleep can affect my patients’ chronic lung diseases or vice versa,” Dr. Abou Abdallah said. The field of sleep medicine is quite extensive and encompasses other sleep-related conditions such as insomnia and narcolepsy.


“My best time is spent around my wife and two young boys,” Dr. Abou Abdallah said. His hobbies include skiing, jogging, soccer and ping-pong. Dr. Abou Abdallah brings more than 20 years of experience to Genesis. He is located in the Genesis Pulmonary/Critical Care Specialists office, 945 Bethesda Drive, Suite 260, Zanesville. The office phone number is 
740-586-6888. Dr. Abou Abdallah is accepting new patients. A referral is required.

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Meet our new Primary Care and Pulmonary/Critical Care Medicine providers.

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