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NOW MORE THAN EVER, women are raising their consciousness of the
unique needs and challenges they face in managing their own health.
They have begun to play a stronger role in their care and are asking questions about their health and their health care providers.The many affiliates and services of North Mississippi Medical Center recognize this and offer a variety of women’s health services throughout north Mississippi, northwest Alabama and portions of southwest Tennessee. Dedicated to caring for a woman’s health throughout her life, these programs focus on every aspect of well-being.
Your first level of care at any age.
A primary care physician is one who assumes overall responsibility for a patient’s medical care. While primary physicians do not treat every medical problem, they
do determine if a patient should be referred to a specialist (such as a surgeon or cardiologist) for further care.FAMILY MEDICINE PHYSICIANS offer continuing and comprehensive health care services to people of all ages. Family physicians care for women’s general health care needs, from routine cervical cancer and breast cancer screenings, to family planning and menopause issues.
INTERNAL MEDICINE PHYSICIANS diagnose and treat diseases in adults, typically from the middle teens on up. Some internists have pursued additional training in the area of women’s health concerns.
OBSTETRICS-GYNECOLOGY. Obstetrics involves caring for a woman from preconception (when a woman is planning to become pregnant) through labor
and childbirth, and after the baby is born. Gynecology covers a woman’s special health care from puberty through menopause, and includes issues ranging from nutrition to hormones.Obstetrician-gynecologists are physicians who specialize in women’s general medical care, treatment of disorders of the female reproductive system, and care of pregnant women. They also provide a wide range of gynecological surgery options.
PEDIATRICS. Mothers do everything they can to help their children stay well and happy. So do we.
• Area pediatricians provide comprehensive care for children and adolescents.
• Satellite clinics by pediatric subspecialists from Le Bonheur Children’s Medical Center
• Pediatric speech, physical and occupational therapy
• NMMC’s Home Health Agency staff with specialty training in pediatrics
For the name and phone number of a North Mississippi Medical Center physician near you, call 1-800-THE DESK (1-800-843-3375).
NMMC MATERNITY SERVICES
Helping Deliver a Truly Wonderful Experience. We want to help make bringing your child into the world a magical and memorable event. North Mississippi Medical Center offers expectant moms more than they expect:
• Obstetricians care for normal and high-risk pregnancies at NMMC Women’s ospital in Tupelo, one of the few freestanding hospitals in Mississippi dedicated to women’s health, and at NMMC-West Point.
• Wonderful Beginnings classes on pregnancy, childbirth and infant care
• Sibling and breastfeeding education programs
• Ultrasound and other newborn studies
• Maternal-fetal medicine specialists from the University of Mississippi Medical Center visit NMMC Women’s Hospital for special high-risk cases.
• Family-centered care with freedom to choose the birth experience most meaningful to parents in a home-like environment
• Women’s Lactation Center and certified lactation consultants for breastfeeding mothers
• NMMC Women’s Hospital neonatal intensive care unit with equipment, facilities and specialty staff for 22 critically ill newborns
• Board-certified neonatologists • Air and ground transport teams for critically ill newborns
• Telemedicine consultations with pediatric subspecialists at Le Bonheur Children’s Medical Center
For the name and phone number of a North Mississippi Medical Center physician near you, call 1-800-THE DESK (1-800-843-3375).
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SPECIAL PROGRAMS & SERVICES |
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WOMEN EXPERIENCE UNIQUE SYMPTOMS and concerns for most major illnesses and medical conditions. North Mississippi Medical Center offers special programs and services to help women better understand their health risks and self-care choices.
Your primary care physician may refer you to a rheumatologist, an internal medicine physician who specializes in treating rheumatoid diseases such as arthritis.
• Physical and occupational therapy programs available by physician referral
• People with Arthritis Can Exercise (PACE) classes developed by the Arthritis Foundation
• Arthritis Foundation’s Aquatic Program, a water-based exercise program for people with arthritis
For more information, call your local NMHS Wellness Center :
Baldwyn (662)365-7873
Hamilton, Ala. (205) 921-2997
Iuka (662) 423-1980
Pontotoc (662) 489-1335
Tupelo (662) 377-4141
West Point (662) 495-9355
• Medical and surgical services provided by qualified physicians
• Screening & diagnostic mammograms, breast ultrasound, galactography
• Mobile mammography unit
For mammogram information, call:
NMMC & Mobile Unit (662) 377-4158*Clay County Medical Center (662) 495-2331*
Iuka Hospital (662) 423-4502
Marion Regional Medical Center (205) 921-6280
Webster Health Services (662) 258-6221
*Screening mammograms available by self-referral
• Female radiologist who is fellowship trained in breast imaging
• Breast Health Specialist at NMMC Breast Care Center
• Mammotome® Breast Biopsy System, a technologically advanced device that is used for stereotactic breast biopsy, an alternative to open surgical breast biopsy
• Ultrasound-directed biopsy and cyst aspiration allows physicians to obtain a small sample of suspicious breast tissue or fluid during a diagnostic ultrasound study. This eliminates the need for a separate biopsy procedure.
• Sentinel lymph node biopsy to diagnose the spread of breast cancer by examining one or two lymph nodes to which the cancer might first spread
• Manual lymphatic treatment for lymphedema
For more information call (662) 690-7215
Since 1991, the NMMC Cancer Center has provided a full scope of services to diagnose, treat and help prevent cancer.
• Approved by the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer
• Radiation oncology accredited by American College of Radiology
• Teaching Hospital Cancer Program
• Access to clinical trials
• Chemotherapy provided by medical oncologists
• Three-dimensional treatment planning to pinpoint exact location of tumors and minimize radiation doses to uninvolved organs and tissues
• Conformal therapy, external radiotherapy in which the prescribed dose volume is made to conform closely to the tumor volume
• Brachytherapy, internal radiation treatment given by implanting radioactive material directly into the tumor or very close to it
• Joyce B. Atwell Cancer Resource Library
• Social services
• Nutrition counseling
• Personal needs retail center
• Shuttle service
• Support groups and programs
NMMC’s Diabetes Treatment Center is dedicated to helping women with diabetes better understand their disease and inform them of new medications and technologies.
• One of only three Diabetes Centers of Excellence in Mississippi recognized by the American Diabetes Association
• Diabetes treatment and consultation services for all ages
For more information, call (662) 377-2500.
Heart disease is an equal opportunity killer. Fortunately, there’s much you can do to help protect yourself from the leading cause of death among American women.
• Women’s Heart Program focuses on the educational and preventive care needs, diagnostic procedures, treatment modalities and rehabilitation for women with or at risk for cardiovascular disease.
• Free individualized women’s heart risk questionnaire and profile by calling the Community Health Department at (662) 377-3867.
As a woman ages, her body begins to slow its production of estrogen, a hormone that seems to protect women from heart disease and osteoporosis.
• HRT helps control hot flashes, insomnia and other symptoms and helps protect a woman from heart disease and bone loss.
• Ask your primary care physician about available treatment.
Women of all ages experience bladder control problems. It is important to realize that incontinence is a medical problem and no cause for shame.
• Nearly every woman with a bladder control problem can be helped. Ask your physician, gynecologist or urologist – a physician who specializes in bladder problems – about treatment options.
Menopause and its associated estrogen loss bring special health considerations.
• Symptoms such as night sweats, hot flashes and vaginal dryness
• Health concerns such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and colon cancer.
• Ask your primary care physician about available treatment
Many women use the word "migraine" to describe a particularly painful headache. Migraine is certainly that, and a lot more. Fortunately, physicians can offer hope to migraine sufferers. For more information, consult your physician.
As a woman ages, she begins to lose more bone than her body makes. This process weakens her bones and increases the risk that they will fracture or break.
• Rheumatology and Osteoporosis Center at IMA-Tupelo
• Services available by self-referral
• Board-certified rheumatologists
• Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) to measure bone density
• Physical and occupational therapy programs throughout NMHS
• Monthly support group
For more information on the various osteoporosis programs and services available, call IMA-Tupelo at (662) 790-5000.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Cosmetic surgery can provide numerous benefits to improve your looks, attitude and sense of self-esteem.
• Plastic and reconstructive surgeons can alter portions of the face or body in shape or form.
• A variety of aesthetic services such as skin care, chemical peels, treatment for pigmentation problems and other conditions
• For a plastic or reconstructive surgeon near you, call 1-800-843-3375
For a woman, a sexually transmitted disease can be a time bomb. Many of these diseases can lead to infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, cervical cancer and other health problems. If you have any questions, consult your physician.
Dermatologists have extensive training and experience in diagnosing and treating skin cancers, melanomas, moles, contact dermatitis and other skin conditions. Derma-tologists also help women with cosmetic skin disorders, such as hair loss, nail problems and scars. For a dermatologist near you, call 1-800-THE DESK (1-800-843-3375).
A stroke is similar to a heart attack. It occurs when a blood vessel bringing oxygen and nutrients to the brain bursts or is clogged by a blood clot or some other particle. Treat every warning sign of stroke as an emergency and get treatment immediately. For more information about stroke prevention and treatment, ask your physician or call the Community Health Department at (662) 377-3867.
Through the hormones it produces, the thyroid gland influences almost all of the metabolic processes in your body. If you feel unusually sluggish or restless, the problem may be a thyroid disorder. Consult your physician for more information.
The best prevention is early detection. Schedule these important health tests by age and frequency as recommended.
Blood Pressure
Blood Sugar (Glucose)To check whether your blood pressure is too high
21 and over, at least once every two years and more often if directed by physician.
Bone Density ScanTo check your blood sugar levels
Every three to five years
Breast Self-ExamTo check the thickness of your bones
As directed by physician
CholesterolTo detect changes in breast tissue or appearance
20 and over, monthly
Clinical Breast ExamTo check amount of different types of fat in your blood
Every five years or as directed by physician
Dental Check-UpTo look for changes and feel for any lumps
20-39, every three years; 40 and over, annually
Digital Rectal ExamTo check for cavities and gum disease
18 and over, annually or as directed by dentist
ElectrocardiogramTo screen for colorectal cancer
40 and over, annually
To test heart function
18 and over, as directed by physician
Eye Exam
Fecal Occult BloodTo check your vision and look for other conditions, such as cataracts or glaucoma
18 and over, annually or as directed by physician
Hearing TestTo screen for colorectal cancer
50 and over, annually
MammogramTo check how well you hear
As part of routine physical exam
Pelvic Exam and Pap SmearTo look for changes too small to be felt in breast tissue with either a clinical or breast self-exam
40 and over, annually
Routine Physical ExamTo detect uterine abnormalities and changes in other female organs
18 and over, annually or as directed by physician
Skin Cancer CheckupsTo maintain health and catch problems early
18 and over, as directed by physician
SigmoidoscopyTo check for changes in any moles or for growths or sores that don't heal
Self-exams at least every three months; clinical exams as part of routine physical exam
To screen for colorectal cancer
50 and over, every three to five years
Flu Shot
Pneumococcal VaccineEvery year to prevent the flu
Tetanus ShotOnce around age 65 to prevent pneumococcal pneumonia
Every 10 years to prevent tetanus, a serious bacterial infection
Behavioral Health
Anxiety
• Symptoms include difficulty sleeping, outbursts of anger, difficulty concentrating and irritability
• Causes a woman to feel nervous or "on guard" and easily startled
• Individualized treatment based on the severity of symptoms and level of function
Depression
• Unlike grief or passing sadness, does not usually respond to changes in circumstances or go away with time
• Can last for months or years if not treated
• Can result in disruption of relationships and professional productivity, disability or even death
• Help for postpartum depression, a common problem following the birth of a child
Domestic Violence
Eating Disorders
Many people, especially women, have disordered eating behaviors and unhealthy attitudes about food, weight and body image.
With the proper treatment, women can gain control over disorders which are caused by a preoccupation with food.Geriatrics
Women today often find themselves "sandwiched" between two generations which require a great deal of their time and energy. With people living longer and couples having children later in life, many middle-aged women are caring for their own children while tending to aging parents in need of attention.
• The NMMC Behavioral Health Center’s partial hospitalization/intensive outpatient program, Elder Link,
supports individuals 55 years of age or older suffering emotional or psychological difficulties through short-term intense and structured counseling sessions.• Inpatient treatment focuses on stabilization of problem behaviors/dementia
• NMMC’s Home Health Agency mental health specialists serve patients in a 17-county area.
Parenting
Women are vitally concerned about the health and well-being of their children, and they usually bear the burden of getting help when emotional, behavioral or learning problems appear. Evaluation and treatment through the NMMC Behavioral Health Center can help families cope with learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder, substance abuse and other emotional or behavioral disturbances.
Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse can be physical, verbal or emotional, and its long-term emotional and psychological damage can be devastating.
• Can lead to low self-esteem, feelings of worthlessness, difficulty relating to others, withdrawal, or even suicide
Substance Abuse
• Help for those struggling with alcohol and drug problems through NMMC’s Behavioral Health Center
• Information for family members and friends on how to help loved ones
• Program managed by certified addictionologist, an internal medicine physician with specialized training
Your primary care physician can help you with these and other behavioral health problems. In addition, you can schedule a free, confidential meeting with a mental health professional at NMMC’s Behavioral Health Center and weekly in seven surrounding communities. To schedule an appointment, call (662) 377-3161 or 1-800-442-2238.
Diet and Exercise
A woman who exercises regularly and eats healthy foods feels better. She also faces a lower risk of health problems, including heart disease, osteoporosis, hypertension and diabetes.
• One-on-one outpatient nutritional counseling provided by clinical dietitians throughout NMHS
• Help with diabetic meal planning, weight reduction, prenatal nutrition and gestational diabetes management
• Instruction for managing diets low in sodium and cholesterol, and high in fiber
• Group nutrition classes for weight loss and cholesterol reduction
• Wellness facilities throughout NMHS with a wide variety of exercise equipment and classes for all ages and fitness levels
• Free community health programs
For more information on NMHS’ Wellness Centers or Live Well programs available, call:
Eupora (662) 258-6221
Hamilton, Ala. (205) 921-2997
Iuka (662) 423-6051
Pontotoc (662) 489-1335
Tupelo (662) 377-4141
West Point (662) 495-9355
Smoking
Quitting reverses much of the damage caused by smoking. When you stop smoking, your body begins to repair itself and with time, your health risks will equal those of a nonsmoker.
• Fresh Start, a free smoking cessation course that teaches skills for stress management, weight control, assertive communication and exercise to help ex-smokers succeed
• Tactics include positive thinking, alternative behaviors, one-on-one help, rewards and group support to help participants stop smoking.
For more information on Fresh Start, call the NMMC Wellness Center at (662) 377-4141.
Therapeutic Day Spa
The NMMC Wellness Center offers a Therapeutic Day Spa that promotes well-being in a quiet, serene setting. Services include facials, body treatments, massage therapy, manicure/pedicure, aroma therapy, yoga and herbal consultation. For more information, call (662) 377-4141.
Appointments
The Appointment Desk, 1-800-843-3375, is a free physician referral service. All calls are answered by referral specialists who provide timely appointments with NMHS health care providers. The Appointment Desk is operational 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Lunchtime Learning
A Woman's Place Lunchtime Learning Series features monthly programs for women about women's health issues. For upcoming topics, call 1-800-THE DESK (1-800-843-3375)
Nurse Link®
Nurse Link®, 1-800-882-6274, is a free telephone health information service. Callers speak directly to a registered nurse and get immediate answers. Using computerized medical protocols, nurses direct callers to the most appropriate medical treatment.
Speakers Bureau
A Speakers Bureau featuring experts on many health topics is also available to provide speakers for community and church groups. For more information call the NMHS Community Health Department at (662) 377-3867.
Support Groups
NMHS recognizes that women need the support of other women who are in similar situations. For this reason, a number of support groups are available throughout the health care system to allow women to discuss personal concerns, issues and feelings. Support groups include:
• Amputee Support Group
• Camp Bluebird, a weekend camp for adults diagnosed with cancer
• Cancer Support Group
• Coffee Clubs at NMMC Heart Institute and NMMC Wellness Center
• Defibrillator and Pacemaker Support Group
• Diabetes Community Programs held regularly at several locations
• FAITH Cancer/Cardiac Support Group, Webster Health Services in Eupora
• Head Injury Support Group for persons that have experienced a traumatic brain injury, including head trauma or stroke
• I Can Cope cancer education series, Clay County Medical Center in West Point
• Insulin Pump Support Group for diabetes patients
• Look Good, Feel Better for female cancer patients
• Man to Man for men diagnosed with prostate cancer and their families
• Mended Hearts Volunteer Program for cardiac patients and their families
• Osteoporosis Support Group
• Ostomy Support Group
• Parkinson’s Disease Support Group
• Perinatal Loss Support Group for parents who have lost an infant
• Pulmonary Support Group for those with lung disease and their families
• Reach to Recovery for women with breast cancer
• Tupelo Lost Cords Club for laryngectomees
• Women First for women with breast cancer
For more information on support groups offered through NMHS, call the Community Health Department at (662) 377-3867.
North Mississippi Medical Center is participating in the Women’s Health Initiative, a landmark 15-year research project that is one of the largest preventive studies of its kind in the United States. The initiative targets the major causes of death, disability and frailty in postmenopausal women. The resulting information will be most beneficial in providing women with new clues about disease and providing physicians with practical information to help treat and prevent health conditions.
