Hoag Health System

Hoag was well represented at the 2024 Medical Innovation conference, presenting on topics including Regenerative Medicine and Wearables for Monitoring and Managing Cancer. Christopher Duma, MD, FACS, discussed stem cell therapies for treating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and ALS. He highlighted Hoag's clinical trial that introduces stem cells into the brain's ventricles. Future developments may include allogenic stem cell treatments—where cells from one person are processed and transferred to others. However, social acceptance remains crucial for advancing these therapies. Michael Brant-Zawadzki, M.D., F.A.C.R., Vice President of Clinical Research Administration, CATALiST and Addiction Services and Charles De Mesa, DO, Chief of Interventional Pain, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation for Hoag Spine Institute, explored how wearables are revolutionizing cancer treatment. These devices offer non-invasive solutions for patients suffering from chemotherapy-induced neuropathy, using low-intensity multidirectional magnetic fields to reduce neuroinflammation. Neuromodulation treatments, both pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical, are tailored to individual needs, particularly for vulnerable populations like cancer patients. The affordability and scalability of wearables allow physicians to provide comprehensive treatment and pain management. The presenters emphasized that pain affects multiple aspects of a patient's life—psychological, emotional, physiological, and social. Chronic pain can lead to anxiety and fear, potentially impacting mental health and increasing addiction risk. By addressing these interconnected issues, wearable technology offers a promising approach to enhancing cancer patients' quality of life.

Listen Here: https://lnkd.in/gXMe3j_B Kenneth Chang, M.D., Executive Medical Director of the Hoag Health System Digestive Health Institute, shares valuable insights into the path to a career in gastroenterology, including key steps for aspiring professionals. He also addresses the critical issue of physician burnout, offering strategies for maintaining balance and well-being in a demanding field. Additionally, Dr. Chang discusses the pressing problem of obesity and how Hoag is actively working to combat it, emphasizing the importance of preventative measures and comprehensive care in tackling this widespread health challenge. For more information about Becker's Healthcare, please contact Jessica Cole or Scott Becker. #podcast #healthcare #leadership #digestivehealth

In our ongoing commitment to provide cutting-edge technology for our patients, Hoag's Movement Disorders team has acquired Insightec's Focused Ultrasound for essential tremor and tremor-dominant Parkinson's disease. This innovative treatment is an incisionless, anesthesia-free option for those living with these conditions. The safe and effective procedure uses thermal ablation under MR guidance to immediately improve tremor, quality of life, and functional ability—all without incisions or implants. This advanced treatment is now available at Hoag, offering specialized and comprehensive care right here in Orange County » https://lnkd.in/gCa5tSsF

When Tricia Takasugi discovered a lump in her breast, other facilities told her she'd have to wait months for an appointment. Hoag, however, prioritized her care and saw her within two days. "They treated me like family," Tricia said. "The compassion, care, and attention I received made all the difference." At Hoag, we believe your health can't wait. Every step of your cancer journey matters, and we're here to walk it with you. Read Tricia's story here: https://bit.ly/48paOiX. #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth

You probably know that mammograms are the gold standard for breast cancer detection and that they save lives. But did you know that about 40% of breast lumps are detected by women during a breast self-exam? In addition to mammograms, breast self-awareness is an important part of breast health. So what should you be looking for? Read our latest blog post at the link below. #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth

Join us in celebrating the journey toward better spine health with innovative, non-invasive solutions for back pain relief. Dr. Aaron Przybysz, M.D., a double board-certified anesthesiologist and pain medicine physician, is dedicated to finding effective strategies to manage chronic pain without relying on narcotics. With a personalized, multidisciplinary approach that includes diet, exercise, mind-body techniques, and cutting-edge technology like the Sprint PNS device, Dr. Przybysz creates tailored treatment plans to help you reclaim your life. Discover more about his work and Hoag’s Spine Institute by visiting Hoag.org/spine. #SpineHealthAwarenessMonth

Regular mammogram screenings are essential for early detection and prevention of breast cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends that women aged 40 and older get a mammogram every year. The earlier it’s found, the better the chances for effective treatment. Protect your health by staying up to date on your screenings—because early detection can save lives. Schedule your mammogram today at hoag.org/mammogram. #BreastCancerAwareness

We are thrilled to announce the completion of the structural phase for our Women's Health Pavilion at Hoag's Sun Family Campus in Irvine. The milestone was celebrated with a topping off ceremony, marking a significant step towards enhancing women's healthcare in our community. Our state-of-the-art Women's Health Pavilion will offer comprehensive care facilities, including 24 Labor-Delivery-Recovery-Postpartum Suites and a 17-bed Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. The pavilion will also feature specialized rooms for postpartum and antepartum care, advanced C-Section delivery suites, and OB Emergency triage rooms to ensure complete maternal and newborn care. Additionally, the facility will house Pre-Op and Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) areas, complemented by an innovative Breast Center. This development marks a significant milestone in Hoag's dedication to women's health. We're deeply grateful to our community for your unwavering support as we strive to enhance healthcare across Orange County and beyond.

Meet Traci Swenson (second from left), our dedicated Breast Cancer Nurse Navigator at Hoag! With over 30 years of oncology experience, Traci has been a vital part of our team since 1989. Her journey from medical secretary to Breast Cancer Nurse Navigator is a testament to her passion for patient care and continuous learning. As a navigator, Traci guides patients through their cancer treatments and into survivorship. She teaches classes for newly diagnosed patients, facilitates support groups, and provides crucial support during a challenging time. "It's so fulfilling to be there when I'm needed," Traci shares, emphasizing the importance of her role in our comprehensive breast cancer program. This #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth, Traci offers valuable advice: "Don't be afraid of mammograms. Breast cancer found sooner is easier to treat." She encourages women to take charge of their health, reminding us that knowledge is power. With dedicated professionals like Traci, Hoag continues to make a significant difference in patients' lives.

This #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth, Hoag is proud to collaborate with the Lobular Breast Cancer Alliance to raise awareness about invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC). ILC, the second most common breast cancer type, accounts for 15% of diagnoses but receives minimal research funding and currently has no targeted treatments. ILC's unique characteristics make detection challenging, especially in dense breast tissue. At Hoag Family Cancer Institute, Dr. Gary Ulaner leads pioneering research using estrogen receptor-targeted molecular imaging to improve ILC detection and treatment. Learn more at the link below. #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth