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In This Issue
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February 2016
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News Brief 
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New MRI Machine Produces Highly Detailed Images
Milford Regional has recently installed one of the area's first Siemens 3T MAGNETOM® Verio MRI scanner which provides exceptional image quality and a design that is more comfortable for patients.
With a magnet strength of 3 Tesla (3T), the MAGNETOM Verio is the strongest magnet field strength used clinically today. It gives Milford Regional physicians top-quality images providing minute details of the musculoskeletal system and neurological system, as well as cartilage, arteries, veins and breasts.
Twice the strength of the machine it replaced, the new MRI is able to produce more detailed images than the previous 1.5 T MRI, including small details and better clarity. For instance, with the new MRI, a scan of the knee can provide an image of the cartilage and meniscus that wasn't visible before.
Images of the brain are also improved, allowing for detection of such things as plaque and lesions, which is key to diagnosing certain medical conditions like multiple sclerosis. The three- dimensional imaging has improved evaluation and detection of old strokes and previous brain trauma that a less powerful magnet could not detect. In addition, certain cancers can be seen earlier with this type of advanced imaging.
The technology within the machine also reduces the need for patients to be repositioned for certain scans. For example, a spine scan which once required the patient to be adjusted several times can now be completed without having to pause for any adjustments.
The system's large 70-cm opening means the machine is more spacious and comfortable for patients who may be claustrophobic and can accommodate a diverse array of patients including children, obese patients (up to 550 lbs.), and the elderly.
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Question & Answer
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Is there an easy way to keep track of my medications?
It is important to always have a current list of your medications in the event of an emergency, or a visit to a new physician. Here is a tool we have created for you. "My Medication Record" is a form you can complete on-line, print and save to your personal computer. After you print it, keep it easily accessible to you and your family at all times in the event of an emergency. Don't forget to update it with a change in medication or dosage.
Here is the form for your personal use, or you can go to our website and in the center of the homepage you will see a panel entitled, "My Medication Record" with a link to the form.
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Presented by
Dr. Michael Vazquez
Monday, March 14
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Featured Video
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Presented by: Cheryl Clarizio, PT and Sue Kolovson, PT
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Start the New Year off right by getting on track with an exercise program. Regular physical activity not only helps to manage your weight, it can improve your mood and increase the quality of your sleep. Whether you start using your smartphone, a pedometer or a FitBit to track you steps, or you decide to join a health club, exercise is an important element of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Did you know that many insurance plans will reimburse you up to $150 if you are an active member of a qualified health and fitness club? Check with your health insurance company to see how you qualify for this benefit, and get moving!
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Patient Story: Stop the Spinning - Physical Therapy
Patricia Alexander of Mendon had been living with vertigo for eight years before being treated by the physical therapists at Milford Regional. Vertigo is the sensation of dizziness that causes you to feel like your surroundings are spinning. While vertigo is painless, it can be severe and life altering. "I was so dizzy I couldn't open or close my eyes," Patricia recalls.
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Good Things You Should Know
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New Portable X-Ray Machine
Milford Regional continually strives to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to diagnostic imaging. We have a brand new portable "x-ray room on wheels" in our emergency department. Patients that are unstable or are suffering from an acute attack, can now have an x-ray taken at their bedside. High quality images can be seen in seconds which provides quick answers when time is of the essence. The machine is lighter, easy to maneuver and wireless allowing for quick positioning to capture the images needed. In addition, this machine uses less radiation than traditional machines.
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Ten Laboratory Locations to Serve You
Milford Regional now has 10 laboratory locations to make it convenient to attend to your healthcare needs. The most recent lab opening is in Medway, located inside Family Medicine Associates, on Route 109 in the Gould Shopping Plaza.
Many of the labs have extended hours and several of the locations were specifically designed with children in mind. The staff at these sites has extensive pediatric lab experience. Fast service and quick test results are what we strive for every day. Regardless of whom your doctor is or where the practice is located, we can fulfill your laboratory order and get the test results back to your doctor quickly.
Learn more about our lab locations.
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Top Doctors In Central Massachusetts
For the fourth year in a row, the Telegram & Gazette has enlisted Castle Connolly Medical Ltd., a well-known medical research group, to independently survey doctors in Central Massachusetts for their nominations of the top physicians in the area. Castle Connolly researches the doctor's education and experience and the result is a list of physicians recommended by their peers.
We are pleased to announce that 12 physicians on Milford Regional's medical staff have been nominated as Top Doctors in 2015. They are: Alan Bell, MD, neurology, Michael Constantine, MD, medical oncology, Brenda Coutinho, MD, obstetrics & gynecology, Albert Crimaldi, MD, gastroenterology, Fredrick Curley, MD, pulmonary disease, Stuart Dunbar, MD, pain medicine, Martin Gelman, MD, nephrology, Kathryn Lee, MD, family medicine, Ciaran McNamee, MD, thoracic surgery, Carl Schanbacher, MD, dermatology, William Shine, MD, cardiovascular disease, and Samuel Zylstra, MD, obstetrics & gynecology.
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About Our Doctors
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Milford Regional's active medical staff, consisting of over 250 doctors, is highly qualified to treat you and your family through sickness and in health. Whether you need a primary care physician or a specialist, you can be assured of the best possible care.
If you need a physician, please call our Physician Referral Line at 1-888-DRS-HERE (1-888-377-4373). Our Referral Line is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For a quick look, see our list of primary care physicians who are accepting new patients. It is important to note that not all physicians accept all insurances. Please call the physician's office directly to find out if they accept your insurance plan. |
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Get to Know our Otolaryngologists
Otolaryngologists are physicians who are trained in the treatment of diseases and disorders of the ears, sinuses, nose, voice box, mouth, throat, and the related structures of the head and neck. They treat all age groups including children who may suffer from chronic ear or throat infections to the elderly who may experience hearing loss. Dizziness and balance disorders are treated by these physicians as well as cancers of the head and neck. Patients are most often treated medically before surgery is recommended, but it is good to know that otolaryngologists are trained in both medicine and surgery.
Learn more about our otolaryngologists.
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