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Providence In The News

COVID-19 Vaccine Update

January 15, 2021

Providence Health is now offering vaccinations for frontline healthcare workers and residents age 70 and older

Brighter Days Ahead: Celebrate the New Year with a Healthy Start

January 6, 2021

In addition to these essential precautions, there are a few key things that can help you get and stay healthy for 2021 and beyond. So, if you’re looking to make a couple resolutions to take better care of yourself, these are a great place to start. After all, there’s no better time to focus on your health than right now.

End of Year Care: Give Yourself the Gift of Good Health

October 22, 2020

As we enter the final months of what has certainly been an unprecedented year, health and well-being has perhaps never been more at the forefront of our thoughts. If you’ve been putting off care, these last months of the year are a great time to schedule your preventive care or procedure.

An Hour That Could Impact a Lifetime

October 1, 2020

Our daily schedules can be tough to juggle. But if you’re a woman age 40 or older, there’s one extra thing you should make time for – an annual mammogram. It’s one hour, once a year, that could save your life.

Cholesterol 101: What it is and Why it Matters

September 9, 2020

September marks National Cholesterol Education Month, making it a perfect time to refresh our knowledge on the ins and outs of cholesterol and understand how it affects your health.

A Twist to our Favorite Dish

March 17, 2020

Kay brings a twist to salmon by using a cedar grilling plank. She also describes some of the benefits of eating salmon in her latest blog.

Colonoscopies 101

March 4, 2020

Why they’re important, why it might be time to get one and why they’re easier than you might think.

We Love Superfoods!

February 20, 2020

Superfoods are a great way to jumpstart your health journey. In her latest blog, Kay talks about the importance of superfoods along with a recipe for some delicious Whole Wheat Pineapple Pancakes.

29 Days of Heart: Something for Everyone!

February 18, 2020

There are events all month that everyone can enjoy such as Providence Cooks! Pop-up at Lowe’s Food, Providence Talks featuring our providers Sherri McCain, BNS, MNS, FNP-C, and Dr. Michael Foster, our annual Go Red Luncheon and so much more!

Healthy Holiday Appetizers

December 19, 2019

With the holiday season comes holiday parties. Don't worry! Kay has a healthy, quick, and easy recipe just for you.

Why a Good Night’s Sleep is Important and How to Get it Tonight

July 25, 2019

We all know sleep is important. We’ve been told so by our mothers and fathers, and we’ve told our children the same. We’ve seen news reports of car accidents caused by people “asleep at the wheel” and witnessed far lighter misfortunes in “caught snoring” videos on YouTube. But beyond that, what is the danger in missing a few hours of shut-eye each night? Why is sleep so important?

Tips to Reduce Your Sodium Intake: Plus a Grilled Shrimp Recipe

July 17, 2019

A recent study linked more than 11 million deaths to dietary factors that included low intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, milk, nuts, seeds or legumes. Eat for a longer healthier life with these tips... plus a healthy low-sodium recipe for shrimp.

Enjoy Fruits' Benefits with the Melon Recipe

June 14, 2019

Why eat fruit? Because it is a great way to add color and flavor to our eating habits with minimal calories and little processing. It is a great source of vitamin C and A, folate, potassium and dietary fiber.

It’s Heart Month. Keep yours healthy!

February 19, 2019

“Lifestyle choices make a significant impact on the health of your heart,” says Dr. Todd Alderson, Providence Heart cardiologist. “Talk about risk factors with your doctor.” Read what the risk factors are here.

Providence Health Consolidates Cardiology Practices Under One Name: Providence Heart

January 31, 2019

Providence Health is consolidating all of its seventeen cardiologists in seven practices around the Midlands under one name: Providence Heart. "By practicing under one name, one entity, we are creating an impressively comprehensive menu of cutting-edge cardiology techniques offered by a roster of nationally-celebrated physicians, conveniently located right here, throughout the Midlands of South Carolina."  -Dr. Michael Foster, Chief of the Department of Cardiology at Providence Health

It’s Heart Month! Give your heart the attention it deserves to stay healthy all year long

January 31, 2019

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, hearts seem to be everywhere you look this time of year. That’s why it is especially fitting that February is American Heart Month, a time to raise awareness of heart disease and how we can help prevent it. It’s also the perfect opportunity to remind ourselves to take good care of our hearts year-round.

Providence Health-Fairfield Emergency Room Opening December 18

December 14, 2018

Providence Health hosted a ribbon-cutting celebration and open house yesterday in advance of the grand opening of its new facility in Fairfield County, called the Providence Health-Fairfield Emergency Room. The Providence Health-Fairfield Emergency Room will open its doors to the public on December 18.

‘Tis the Season to Be Healthy: Helpful Tips for Smart Holiday Eating

December 6, 2018

Family feasts. Office parties. Casual get-togethers. Whatever the celebration during this festive time of year, there’s one thing that just about every gathering has in common: food. And while December may be the most wonderful time of the year, it can also be one of the most tempting times to abandon healthy eating habits.

Local Students Awarded in National Rural Health Day Poster Contest

November 19, 2018

Providence Health and Fairfield Memorial Hospital are pleased to announce the student winners of the annual Rural Health Day Poster Contest. “It was heart-warming to see how health care helps the community through the eyes of the students,” said Providence Health-Northeast’s CEO Lindy White.

Tips to Monitoring your Blood Sugars, plus a recipe for Roasted Vegetable Soup

November 8, 2018

Pay attention to your carbohydrate intake---no this does not mean eliminating all carbs, it just means we need to modify the amount and quality of our choices. Focus on whole grains and limit those things that are highly processed and loaded with refined sugars. Be smart about the choices for sweets---eat sweets with a meal rather than a snack! Also you might think about not drinking sugar sweetened beverages that can have a BIG impact on lots of the numbers.

Peripheral Artery Disease Treatment is Covered by Medicare

October 24, 2018

Untreated Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) can lead to increasing pain, or even leg amputation, as well as an increased risk of coronary artery disease, stroke and heart attack. Fortunately the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) recently began extending Medicare coverage for supervised exercise therapy (SET) to treat the condition.

Hospital Biz: Environmental Services Plays a Critical Role

September 11, 2018

Often referred to as simply EVS, Environmental Services is responsible for much more than just cleaning the facility. “Anyone can make something look clean, but an environment is more than what you see,” says Craig Fick, Director of EVS at providence Health-Northeast. “For us, ‘cleanliness’ is something you hear, feel, and smell in a facility. And it’s also what you can’t sense at all, such as microscopic bacteria.”   

Colon Cancer Screening Age Lowered

June 28, 2018

According to the new American Cancer Society recommendations, those at average risk for colon cancer should begin screening at age 45 instead of 50. The new guidelines were put in place following a major data review that showed a rising rate of colon cancer in adults younger than 50.

Providence Health Welcomes New Chief Nursing Officer Maria Calloway

June 27, 2018

Maria Calloway, RN, MBA, DNP, NE-BC, has been named as the new Chief Nursing Officer for Providence Health. “I’m pleased to join the leadership team at Providence Health, and I look forward to participating in and maintaining the high clinical and patient-care standards of the organization.”

How to Make Mindful Choices

June 18, 2018

Research presented at the American Society for Nutrition’s annual meeting found workers add an average of 1,300 calories to their diet each week by eating foods obtained at work, with more than 70% of those calories coming from free food.

Make Momma Proud With This Blueberry Smoothie Recipe

June 7, 2018

There are many links to improving your health by starting the day with a healthy breakfast and of course, a way to include fruits and veggies is always a plus.  Studies link improved performance in school for children and adolescents.  This includes better performance in the classroom, on the playground with better concentration, problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination.  There are also some benefits to eating breakfast and weight control. Try this blueberry smoothie recipe as a healthy start.

The Heart of the Patient Experience

April 27, 2018

By keeping our patients and their families at the center of care, and encouraging them to play a vital role in the treatment, we are creating a safe and comfortable environment for everyone who walks through our doors. You are why we do what we do, and I am so grateful that we have a team that is so relentlessly dedicated to enhancing your visit with us and creating the best possible patient experience for you and your family.

Providence Health Launches Search for New Market Leader

April 26, 2018

Providence Health announced today that Scott Campbell has resigned as market chief executive officer (CEO) of the Providence Health system, effective May 22. Campbell, who has served as market CEO of Providence Health since 2015, has accepted a leadership position at a medical center outside the community. LifePoint Health has appointed Stephen Selzer to serve as interim market CEO, effective May 22. Selzer is an experienced healthcare administrator with more than 30 years of experience, including as interim CEO for several LifePoint facilities. Selzer most recently served as interim CEO of Providence Health’s Northeast campus.

Are Guilt Free Snacks a Thing? Plus a recipe for Peaches and Cream Pops

April 13, 2018

Much of the time I am craving a treat after work or after supper. Which brings up an interesting question about snacks and how to fit them in. We tend to take in unneeded calories due to our over snacking habits. Snacks can fit into a healthy eating pattern if you are strategic about them.

Eat To Live, Not Live To Eat, plus a recipe for Bananas Foster a la Mode.

April 6, 2018

The World Health Organization estimates that, by 2020, two-thirds of all diseases will be the result of lifestyle choices. Of course there are other factors involved with this: physical activity, obesity, substance abuse and tobacco abuse are factors that play a role in developing a chronic disease, but this can’t be ignored!

Testicular Cancer Awareness: What You Should Know

April 3, 2018

Testicular Cancer is 99% curable if detected in the early stage. By conducting a monthly self-exam, you will be at the forefront of your testicular health by looking out for any changes, lumps or pain in the area. “If you notice anything out of the ordinary, do not wait to see if it changes or goes away,” says Dr. Todd Vandenberg, Urologist in Columbia, SC. Here are the risks and symptoms.

Hospital Biz: We Are…Patient Access!

April 1, 2018

Patient Access is an integral part of the Patient Experience. Every patient interview is a delicate situation, and errors during this process of data collection can lead to major downstream problems such as delays in patient care due to misidentification, or denied claims.

LifePoint Receives 2017 John M. Eisenberg Award for Innovation in Patient Safety

March 20, 2018

LifePoint Health® (NASDAQ: LPNT), of which Providence Health is a part, has been named the recipient of the 2017 John M. Eisenberg Award for Innovation in Patient Safety at the Local Level. Presented annually by The Joint Commission and the National Quality Forum (NQF), the prestigious Eisenberg Awards acknowledge major achievements in healthcare quality and patient safety.

South Carolina HomeCare aligns with Providence Health: New Name is Providence Home Health

March 8, 2018

LifePoint Health is now part of joint venture partnership with LHC Group. The partnership aligns Providence Health with South Carolina HomeHealth, now operating as Providence Home Health. “We are delighted to partner with South Carolina HomeCare, LHC Group, and LifePoint to explore ways to strengthen home health and post-acute care in Columbia and expand the support we offer patients and their families at home," said Scott Campbell, Market CEO of Providence Health

Providence Health Welcomes Dr. Arthur Cooler as its Newest General Surgeon

February 19, 2017

For more than 20 years, Dr. Cooler has been providing general & peripheral vascular surgery services in private practice serving the Pee Dee area of South Carolina, and will now bring that experience and expertise to Providence Surgical Associates and his patients in the greater Columbia area.  

Add Color to Your Plate for Health: Plus a Recipe for Guacamole Deviled Eggs

February 16, 2018

I have learned from watching my Cardiopulmonary Rehab patients that simplifying the message to add color seems to have the most impact when trying to navigate the corridor of healthy eating. Take a look at this list from the American Heart Association to see where you can add color, who knew pink was a color associated with eating healthy. Plus enjoy these delicious guacamole Deviled Eggs!

Providence Health Breaks Ground on Emergency Room in Fairfield County

February 15, 2018

On February 15, Providence Health, part of LifePoint Health®, ceremoniously broke ground on a new emergency room in Winnsboro, South Carolina. A crowd of eighty people including community leaders, elected officials, healthcare providers and hospital supporters gathered to watch the first dig marking the beginning of construction for the facility, which will help ensure the continuation of access to high quality care in Fairfield County.

How to Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease: Plus a recipe for roasted red pepper hummus

February 8, 2018

Heart disease was the 2nd leading cause of death in South Carolina in 2016. New messaging from the American Heart Association makes preventing and/or managing heart disease more doable and not so overwhelming.  Even small changes we make can make a difference that will impact our health!  Here's a heart healthy recipe for Roasted Pepper Hummus.

Lindy White Named Chief Executive Officer at Providence Health Northeast

January 17, 2018

Lindy P. White, MBA, FABC has been named as the new Chief Executive Officer for Providence Health Northeast.  “I’m pleased to join the leadership team at Providence Health, and I look especially forward to participating in the exciting growth of services at the Providence Health Northeast campus,” said Lindy White. “This is a great opportunity to help turn an accomplished boutique facility into a flourishing full-service facility, providing a full range of services to the people in its community.”

How Advanced Aged Seniors Can Eat and Live Healthfully

January 16, 2018

Many seniors run into problems with their health. This often gets worse because they lose track of how to exercise and eat right. Thankfully, both can be corrected to encourage a long, healthy life. It starts by knowing the kind of health problems that often happen to seniors.

COUNT COLOR, NOT CALORIES for healthy eating: Plus a recipe for slow-cooker Chili

January 15, 2018

COUNT COLOR, NOT CALORIES: That rule will help you make the needed small steps to starting your healthy eating journey. Being mindful of what you are eating is one of the first steps to improving your eating habits. Healthy eating doesn’t have to be restrictive. Here are some steps to start your healthy eating journey and become more mindful about what you are put in your body.

WEIGHT NEUTRALITY: Plus a recipe for Skinny Cranberry Bliss Bars

December 22, 2017

Studies show that we gain one to two pounds during this busy time of the year.  The problem is that those 1 to 2 pounds (or 3,500 to 7,000 additional calories) tend to stick with us all year.  If you put those same 1 to 2 pounds on annually, your weight can become an issue.  So the game plan for the next 7 to 10 days is no weight gain or weight loss…maintain your current weight. 

Food For Thought: The MIND Diet Prevents Dementia

November 30, 2017

The MIND diet combines the Mediterranean Diet and DASH Diet to help prevent dementia. Here are the dietary guidelines for the MIND Diet, along with a healthy Grilled Grouper dinner recipe that fits in with the plan.

Long-Distance Caregiving: How to Help a Senior from Afar

November 28, 2017

It’s easy to fall into the trap of feeling guilty when you live so far away from your beloved senior, but it’s important to transfer the energy of your guilt into a more proactive strategy that sees your loved one nurtured, well-supported, and financially stable. Marie Villeza, founder of ElderImpact.org, provides tips on how to ensure that your loved one is cared for from afar.

Explore the Marketplace's Low-Cost Health Insurance Options

November 20, 2017

The Health Insurance Marketplace offers access to low-cost healthcare coverage for people without health insurance and those who are interested in more cost-effective alternatives to their current coverage. The deadline to enroll for 2018 coverage in the Marketplace is December 15, 2017. Here are a few things to consider when getting ready to enroll.

Cyber Security Tips: Proactively Protect Your Information

November 14, 2017

The convenience of technology brings with it the inconvenience of added risk for a cyber-attack on your personal identity and finances, or your workplace information systems. Here are three proactive things you can do to protect yourself from cyber-attack.

Manage your Blood Sugar with this Carb Friendly Appetizer: Crab Salad on Endive

November 10, 2017

Using carbohydrate counting as a tool to help with blood sugar control can make a difference in how food choices affect you. It is not avoiding all carbs, but learning how to incorporate the best choices into your eating habits. Try skipping simple carbs by replacing crackers with a firm piece of endive. Here’s a recipe to learn that trick.

Providence Health Implants First MitraClip in the Midlands

October 25, 2017

Providence Health introduces the MitraClip to the Midlands to treat mitral regurgitation. Previously, in order to treat this "leaky" mitral valve condition, patients would need open heart surgery to repair or replace the damaged valve. Today, the MitraClip treats the condition with a minimally-invasive outpatient procedure.

American College of Surgeons Recognizes Providence Health for Quality of Care

October 22, 2017

The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS NSQIP®) has recognized Providence Health for achieving meritorious outcomes for surgical patient care in 2016. This evaluation measures the quality of hospital surgery programs. The high scores received by Providence Health place it in the top 10% of 680 hospitals evaluated throughout the nation for Surgical Quality.

Tasha Believes Heart Surgery Gave Her a Gift to Give Back

October 18, 2017

Tasha Hunter was in her late thirties when she learned she had an abnormal coronary artery on the deadliest pathway. She had served in the Army for nearly 21 years before retiring. She was deployed twice. She ran track in high school. And at any moment, her artery could have burst. “I was lucky to be alive.”

It’s Apple Season! And you know what they say, “An Apple A Day…”

October 12, 2017

This is one of my favorite times of the year...there are apples everywhere! So many choices to choose from, Gala, Granny Smith or Honey crisp to name a few.  Different tastes, sweet or tart, to please your palate, and textures, crunchy or crisp, to sink your teeth into! Best of all, I can toss one in my purse and know there is a healthy option to add  to my breakfast, lunch or to have as just a snack!

Small Changes, Big Impact: Mediterranean Roasted Artichoke

October 6, 2017

Making healthy eating a priority, and sticking with it, has a big impact on your health. And you can achieve that big impact with small manageable changes. Here are some ideas of gradual changes you can begin to help you reach your goals! Plus a roasted artichoke recipe to enjoy.

George Believed Physical Therapy Could Give Him His Life Back

October 2, 2017

George Simonson fell out of a tree and broke his ankle in three places. He thought he'd never walk normally again. When the orthopedic surgeon said "Let's not do surgery," George was surprised. He believes in Providence because Providence believed in him.

Stop to think healthy: Roast Turkey Breast and Root Vegetables

September 29, 2017

It should be second nature since I’ve been a dietitian for most of my life, but sometimes I have to stop and think about planning a healthy meal. So should you, and here are a few tips. Plus, enjoy a healthy dinner and vegetable dish. - Registered Dietitian "KayMac" Kay MacInnis

Susie Believed in Finding the Best Heart Surgeon

September 28, 2017

When her husband needed a valve replacement, Susie VanHuss did her homework to find a top-quality heart program that she could trust with her husband of 40 years. She was surprised to see that Providence Health ranked as good as or better than the nation’s top hospitals.

Mesothelioma Awareness - Who is at Risk?

September 25, 2017

Mesothelioma has a latency period ranging from 20-50 years, so individuals may go decades without knowing they have been exposed to asbestos. If you or a family member has worked in one of the higher risk occupations, it is essential that you know signs of the disease.

Real men can eat healthy: Herb-Rubbed Tenderloin

September 22, 2017

Choosing lean cuts of beef, pork and veal while avoiding the highly processed meats (sausage, bacon, hot dogs, ham, pepperoni, salami, luncheon meats) is the smart way to go. Try this healthy, hearty pork tenderloin meal instead.

Southern food CAN be healthy: Chicken and Rice

September 14, 2017

According to the Journal of American College of Cardiology, one of the key ways to have a heart-healthy diet is to avoid dietary patterns characteristic of the Southern United States. Small tweaks to our recipes, though, can change that. Try this healthy version of a classic Chicken Bog.

Quick, easy and healthy: Summer Squash and White Bean Sauté

September 8, 2017

Looking for something easy and quick at the end of your busy day while getting back into the fall routine? This is a great recipe to enjoy those healthy, colorful veggies. Just watch-out for sodium! Read here for additional tips about sodium levels and to get the recipe.

Prepare In-Home for a Hurricane with Materials You Already Own

September 7, 2017

The best way to avoid damage is to take proactive steps in advance to minimize weather’s effects. That doesn't necessarily mean purchasing special tools or equipment. Here are some creative ways to use what you have to prepare for severe weather. We've also included more traditional recommendations.

September is Suicide Awareness Month: Know the Signs and the Risk

September 5, 2017

“Suicidal thoughts are a common part of many mental illnesses,” says Dr. Brad Clayton, Chief of Staff at Providence and Doctor of Psychiatry. “Because of this, we can be proactive and save lives by identifying friends or family members who may be at risk.” Here is a list of the more recognizable signs of suicide.

Salads Aren't Always Healthy: Here are tips (and a dressing) to ensure yours is!

August 31, 2017

Salads were once just lettuce with chopped tomatoes and cucumbers. Today, we have salad bars with cheese, bacon, meat and everything else – which means more fat and salt than we may realize. We’re eating salads because we were think they’re healthier, yet some have more calories and salt than a steak and baked potato. Here's how to do a salad right.

When it’s too hot even to think about food: Infused Water

August 18, 2017

Drinking water is critically important to our health. Our bodies are mostly made up of water, and we need more of it to maintain balance in our precious bodily fluids and help our biological processes work as they should. Here are some ways to make it more enticing.

The kids will love this one: Watermelon Fruit Pizza

August 11, 2017

Watermelon and tomatoes are both sources of the antioxidant lycopene, which has been linked with heart health, bone health and prostate cancer prevention. To get the most lycopene from a watermelon, let it ripen fully. Try this recipe for watermelon pizza to enjoy a sweet dose of lycopene.

Teens Need Wellness Visits, Too

August 8, 2017

While many kids may be required to get an annual physical for athletic programs or extracurricular activities, this is a habit parents should help form for every teen. Yearly check-ups are essential for identifying potential health problems before they start or become severe. They also allow parents the opportunity to ask questions or raise any concerns with a medical expert, and they serve as a great way to stay up-to-date on essential vaccinations.

A Treat That May Make You Smarter: Dark Chocolate Soufflé Cake

July 21, 2017

The flavanols absorbed when you consume dark chocolate penetrate and accumulate in the hippocampus, according to research. Long-term consumption of cocoa flavanols was noted to boost attention, working memory, processing speed and verbal fluency, particularly in elderly people with preexisting memory decline.

Keep the Healthy Stuff In Reach: Farm Summer Salad

July 14, 2017

Have you ever thought about your kitchen in terms of where things are placed? Organize things so that the healthy options are the ones that you see easily, and arrange it so you have to look for the less-healthy items.

A Tasty Way to Get Your Omega-3: Mustard-Glazed Trout

July 7, 2017

Omega-3 fatty acids are thought to lower risk of heart disease and may also play a role in fighting cancer, depression, ADHD and rheumatoid arthritis. Kay "KayMac" MacInnis explains this and other benefits along with a recipe to help you get Omega-3s here in her weekly blog.

Listen to Your Heart: Primary Signs of a Heart Attack for Men

June 26, 2017

Though not every person having a heart attack with show these (or any) symptoms, these are the more commons signs of a cardiac event in men. If you or someone you know exhibits these signs, act quickly. Call 9-1-1 or your emergency response number as soon as you suspect an issue. Every minute matters when it comes to heart disease.

Keep up the protein while dieting: Greek-Style Zucchini and Egg Casserole

June 23, 2017

According to a study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, participants who consumed a very low-Calorie diet for four weeks, and consumed 18% of those calories from protein, lost 5-10 percent of their weight. Moreover, those who managed to continue getting more than 15 percent of their Calories from protein regained less weight over the next six months.

Hospital Biz: Ensuring the Security of Hospital Patients and Staff

June 19, 2017

The goal of keeping our staff, patients, and community safe, is no small task. By participating in additional training, working with local agencies, and educating staff on security policies and procedures, we can feel pride in our role and confident in our abilities in this vital segment of the healthcare industry. 

A simple way to make the most of the season: Roasted Tomatoes

June 9, 2017

Tomatoes are a “functional food,” one that goes beyond providing good nutrition. Tomatoes are a good source of phytochemicals, lycopene, alpha- and beta-carotene, lutein, vitamin C and potassium. There is evidence that tomatoes may play a role in reducing our LDL (a.k.a., lousy cholesterol), lowering high blood pressure and even in reducing center types of cancer.

Men, Take Your Health to the Next Level

June 5, 2017

It’s probably no secret to anyone that, on average, women take a more proactive approach to their health than men do. Here are some simple things that men can do to achieve a higher quality of life and take their health to the next level.

Try preparing it a different way: Gulf Fish en Papillote

June 1, 2017

Eating healthy is about cooking healthy. The process starts with our method of preparation, as my friend Chef Brandon reminds me. Sometimes it is the same recipe, just baked instead of fried. Think about your favorite recipes/foods and how you could modify them to make them a little healthier, but still enjoy them.

Nutrition and convenience: Summertime Chicken Salad

May 26, 2017

Keeping cut-up fruits and veggies available for putting a salad together quickly, and lean protein from the grill, can make meal preparation easy. The convenience helps you avoid meal-skipping or taking in more calories from snacking.

Eating fresh, local produce: Tomato and Cucumber Salad

May 19, 2017

It's easy to change your eating habits to include local, seasonal produce at this time of year. You can find it at roadside stands for an even lower price than in the stores. When fruits and vegetables are stored and transported across the country, they lose some of the nutritional value, so choose the freshest available as often as possible.

Eat more color with a Gourmet Restaurant-Style Very Berry Fruit Salad

May 12, 2017

Fresh fruits are a great way to include color and take in all those tasty vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that help our bodies stay healthy and reduce the risk for chronic diseases. Fresh fruits provide fiber, potassium, folate and vitamins A and C – all in a 60-Calorie serving. And they’re low in fat and sodium!

Declutter your life: Lemon Chicken Fettuccine

May 6, 2017

Ever think that we are too busy to think about being healthy? That is something I frequently hear from my clients/patients. Clutter in our lives can be overwhelming and slow the process of working on healthier choices. By "decluttering" our lives, we can make the choices easier.

Pulmonary Hypertension: A Lesser-Known, Greater-Risk form of High Blood Pressure

May 4, 2017

Pulmonary hypertension is a condition in which high blood pressure is centralized in the heart-to-lung system. Untreated, it will eventually overtax the heart. A variation called pulmonary arterial hypertension generally affects young and otherwise healthy individuals and strikes women twice as frequently as men.

It’s OK to Ask: Hand Hygiene as a Frontline Defense Against Infection

May 4, 2017

It is okay for patients and their families to ask every single person who visits their room to clean their hands for their own protection. If patients are not sure whether the visitor has cleaned his or her hands, they can feel comfortable and confident in asking their visitor to do so.

Fishing for a good tea-flavored recipe? Try Hickory Tea-Smoked Salmon

April 28, 2017

How does tea fit into a healthy lifestyle? There is some evidence that consuming black tea can decrease incidence of heart attack, while drinking green tea has been associated with lower cholesterol, LDL and triglycerides and high HDL levels. The polyphenol compounds found in tea, especially the catechins, may play a role in preventing cancer. Black, white, green or oolong tea are all made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. All four types of tea are high in polyphenols, a type of antioxidant that can play a role in preventing and reducing diabetes, cancer and heart disease. The differences between them lie in how mature the leaves are and how they are prepared.

A little honey goes a long way: Honey Chicken Kabobs

April 21, 2017

Honey should be used sparingly if you are worried about blood sugar control. It is the total amount of carbohydrate intake that influences your blood sugar levels, according to the American Diabetes Association. The quantity of carbohydrate is more important than the quality.

April showers bring… Eye Injury?

April 11, 2017

Did you know 40% of home eye injuries occur while working in the lawn or garden?  Dr. Robert Kneece has some tips that may save your sight.

Four Basic Guidelines to the Mediterranean Diet: Plus a recipe for Greek Chicken

April 7, 2017

The “Mediterranean diet” is a broad concept based on the food habits of many cultures around the Mediterranean sea. Research has shown that 30% of heart attacks, strokes and deaths from heart disease can be prevented in high-risk people if they follow a Mediterranean-style eating pattern – that’s according to the National Lipid Association. You can start tonight with this recipe for Greek Chicken.

DIY heart-healthy snack: Providence Coconut Granola Bars

April 3, 2017

It’s always important to take care of our hearts. I take a three-pronged approach: Mind, Body and Spirit! As Nutrition Month closes, be sure to put your best fork forward by trying this healthier version of a granola bar, developed in the hospital by our Chef Brandon Carn, who is always willing to experiment and find a healthier way to prepare food.

Break Your Fast Smart and Quick With a Smoothie

March 17, 2017

The one thing that might keep you from breaking the fast is catching a few more minutes of sleep in the morning, so here is a quick breakfast idea: A smoothie! You can use your favorite combination of berries and, better yet, add a handful of baby spinach to increase your intake of antioxidants.

Starch isn’t always bad: Tricolor Summer Penne Pasta Salad

March 10, 2017

Here’s some cool news about the carbohydrates that we love: When they are cooked and then refrigerated, the starch that causes our concern transforms into resistant starch. That’s a type of starch that resists digestion. Here are some foods to try eating cold, for the resistant starch.

A New Option for People with Parkinson's Disease

March 8, 2017

Dr. Vasudeva brings a new evolution in medical treatment for Parkinson’s disease to Providence Health that is showing promising results for keeping patients stable and mobile.

Often Overlooked Symptoms for a Heart Attack

February 27, 2017

Below are a few common, and often overlooked, signs that a heart attack may be approaching. To get a pulse on your heart health, make sure to see your family doctor and ask questions about your risk factors.

For your fresh, locally grown salads: Stone-Ground Mustard Vinaigrette

February 24, 2017

What’s “local?” There is frequently debate about how to define it, but fortunately in South Carolina we have the Certified SC Grown program, which helps consumers identify which products are grown or produced in our state. That’s good because fresh local, seasonally grown foods are picked at peak of ripeness and loaded with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber.

Heart Health at Any Age

February 21, 2017

Things change the older you get. How you take care of yourself in your 20s is different from your 60s. That said, it’s important to understand what to keep in mind the older you get. Here are some pointers on what to remember as each decade comes and goes, as well as some things you can keep in mind at any age.

Wait to have a healthy dessert at home: Make these crêpes

February 17, 2017

March is National Nutrition Month! I usually find myself super busy at this time trying to spread the word about healthy eating. That means there are times when I am eating away from home. Here are a few tips for dining out and still making healthy choices.

From Jamaica to Columbia to Fix a Broken Heart

February 14, 2017

“It has been 250 days since my surgery, and I can honestly say it has been nothing like I expected from start to date,” says Shadeka McIntosh, speaking to us from her home in Jamaica. It is well known that Providence Health has a long history of giving back to the community here in Columbia. This compassion and generosity, though, stretches well beyond our city borders. Here’s one story of a patient flown overseas to repair her heart at Providence.

STEMI: A Matter of Life and Death

February 7, 2017

If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, call 911 immediately for an ambulance. If you call 911, an ambulance will come staffed and ready to perform the EKG, either there on the spot or on the way to a hospital. This way, if you are having a heart attack, you can go directly to a Catheterization Lab when you get to the hospital rather than wait for tests to be performed.

The DASH diet and hypertension: Quinoa Burrito Bowl

February 2, 2017

If you are dealing with elevated blood pressure and trying to follow a DASH eating plan, think about adding additional servings of vegetables at lunch or dinner. Tack fruit on to the end of the meal in place of desserts. Include beans with a salad or have them in place of meat. You might also think about vegetables as part of your breakfast, in omelets or a smoothie.

When It Comes to Your Heart, Play Smart! Tips from a Cardiologist

February 2, 2017

Heart disease is the number one killer of both men and women in the U.S. In fact, according to the American Heart Association, one in four people die of heart disease every year. That’s why it’s important to play smart with your heart. And there are a couple of simple, practical things you can do to stay on top of your heart game.

Think of it: You don’t have to use potatoes in Shepherd’s Pie

January 20, 2017

Stepping outside the box and trying something different to improve your health is not always easy. Whether it’s exercising or eating healthy, it requires a certain amount of experimentation and learning what you are willing to live with. Be adventurous: Try some new or different ingredients in an old favorite. Modify one or two ingredients at a time until you have a healthier option.

Think ahead so you have options: Kale and Farro Soup

January 12, 2017

It takes a little time to get everything moving in the right direction when you start working on your health. Thinking ahead and making sure what you have everything you need to make “healthy” happen ensures that the process moves forward, even if it is slow. Shop with that in mind.

Hit the reset button on healthy eating: Sole Meunière

January 6, 2017

Seems that we all start out with great intentions, but as we progress through the year, we don’t eat as healthy or exercise as much. As I’ve learned through the years as a registered dietitian, much of this is due to a lack of accountability. There are several support tools that can help. Plus, we have a deliciously healthy Sole recipe to kick start your healthy year.

How to Write A Resume for the Keep Pile

January 2, 2017

When writing a resume there are things you can do to guarantee it will land in the garbage. In this issue, our recruiter tells you what techniques will get you pitched vs. hitched.

Cardiac Rehab Participant Joan Devito is First in Class

December 20, 2016

Joan's cardiologist Dr. Norma Khoury recommended she do cardiac rehab for a diagnosis of stable angina. Today she is a cardiac rehab graduate, who doesn’t get out of breath as much, and can walk further and do more. Best of all? "I had so much fun!" she says.

Providence Helps: Donating Toys of Joy

December 19, 2016

The laboratory staff at Providence has made it a tradition to go above and beyond in their giving. For more than ten years, the Providence downtown laboratory has adopted many therapeutic foster children from the South Carolina Youth Advocate Program (SCYAP) and sent an abundance of gifts and gift cards. In some ways, there really is a Santa Claus.

Toy Safety Tips for Holiday Shopping

December 13, 2016

There are a number of ways that a toy can be hazardous to a child. Read these tips to make sure the gifts you give bring smiles instead of risks.

Colorful Candy? A List of Toxic Concerns Found in Holiday Decor

December 12, 2016

During the month of December, we fill our houses with sparkly, colorful, festive flair. We also tend to leave out candy treats and sweets. Sometimes children have a problem telling the difference. Here is a list of commonly used holiday decoration items and the toxic risks they can pose if ingested.

Baking at the right temperature: Balsamic Chicken

December 9, 2016

Cooking food to the proper internal temperatures can ensure the safety of your holiday meal – and can also help the food taste better. Make sure you use a food thermometer to check for doneness. Check these charts for a guide when you are cooking.

Hospital Biz: Fire Safety During the Holidays

December 7, 2016

Cold weather and joyous holiday season is upon us, and as you are aware, the probability of a disastrous “fire” in your facility increases during the cold weather months. Fire prevention can be achieved through continuing educational programs of all employees about potential fire hazards and how to eliminate them, and by requiring safe practices in the operation and maintenance of your facility.

Look Your Best for the Holidays -- Why Botox is a Great Idea This Week

December 5, 2016

The muscles beneath your facial skin contract hundreds of times a day without your knowing, and each contraction contributes to a slow but consistent indent in the skin, known as a wrinkle.  “By chemically preventing these muscles from contracting, Botox softens and relaxes your wrinkles,” says Dr. W. McIver Leppard of Providence Surgical Associates.

Healthy Convenience: Oven-Baked Breakfast Casserole

December 2, 2016

Most casseroles are fully loaded with fat, salt and sugar. They often contain canned soups and lots of cheese. This breakfast dish is a better choice as far as nutrition is concerned, and it helps you on those really busy days when you don’t have time to spend in the kitchen.

Poison or Pretty: Holiday Plants that Pose a Risk and the Symptoms They May Cause

November 30, 2016

As you decorate for the holidays, please beware that some of the plants traditionally used at this time of year can be poisonous. Below, we've provided a list of plants commonly used in Christmas decorating, though this is not a complete list of toxic plants. To help you identify the name of a plant, snip off a small portion of the plant and take it to your local nursery.

How to Be More Thankful + Why it's Good for your Health

November 23, 2016

Studies show time and time again that being thankful is healthy for your mind and body. This article explains some of the benefits to be gained by being thankful as well as tips on how to incorporate more gratitude into your life.

Holiday Tips for Diabetics

November 21, 2016

Festive gatherings can be a challenge for those of us trying to maintain a healthy diet. For the 29 million Americans with diabetes, the season’s temptations are even more dangerous. Here are some helpful tips for diabetics during the holiday season.

Think before you eat during the holidays: Dried Fruit Compote with Yogurt

November 18, 2016

Think about either eating your calories or drinking your calories. We consume lots of calories in beverages, whether it is sweet tea or a glass of wine. Try this healthy beverage – and remember, you can reduce the calories by leaving out the yogurt, and perhaps the nuts and chocolate, too.

Dessert that is GOOD for you: Pumpkin Mousse

November 11, 2016

A dessert that GOOD for you? You bet! Pumpkins are a great source of beta-carotene, a plant carotenoid that converts to Vitamin A which may reduce some cancer risks and a good source of potassium which has been associated with a reduction in stroke.

Keeping Calories Down During the Holidays: Tuscan Pork Loin

November 4, 2016

There are strategies for avoiding the extra calories, while still enjoying the holidays. Make a few modifications at a time to your favorite recipes – if you change everything at once, you may not be happy with the end results. And if you have a favorite recipe you don't want to modify, have a smaller serving.

Edible Art: How to Cook Your Painted Pumpkin

October 31, 2016

Cooking your painted pumpkins is beyond recycling, it’s double-purposing. So next time you’re transitioning from Halloween to Christmas, cook the pumpkins your children painted at fall festivals and events.

An apple a day really might be the way to go: Chicken with Apples

October 28, 2016

Apples are a great source of fiber, both soluble and insoluble. The soluble fiber found right under the apple's skin helps lower cholesterol levels. The insoluble fiber is responsible for moving food through the gut, thereby helping avoid cancer.

Something to lift your mood: Artichoke Mushroom Chicken

October 21, 2016

A recent study tracking the food habits of 12,000 people over the course of two years found that happiness grew incrementally with each additional serving of fruits and vegetables, up to a total of eight servings a day.

Butternut Squash -- A Versatile Veggie

October 13, 2016

First, it is a starchy vegetable, which means it is a carbohydrate. It is a rich source of beta-carotene, which is converted in the body to vitamin A, a powerful antioxidant. Vitamin A helps with the immune function and offers anti-cancer and cardiovascular benefits. It protects against inflammation and helps with vision and eyesight.

Choose carbs carefully: Green Bean, Parsnip and Carrot Gremolata

October 11, 2016

Age, gender and activity level can affect how many calories we need. A small amount of weight loss can have a large impact on blood sugar control. This week our very talented Providence Cooks! chefs served a Green Bean, Parsnip and Carrot Gremolata recipe, which I am sharing with you. It was pretty cool to watch them take two recipes and make one great-tasting, low-carbohydrate recipe.

Pumpkin Apple Bread is a Great Way To Go Local and Seasonal in SC Now

September 30, 2016

When we look at people in other cultures who are healthier than we are, we often see that their diets consist of foods naturally found in their regions. So as often as you can, try to include foods that you can recognize as being grown in our part of the country. “Local” is often defined as within 150-200 miles of where you are located.

Let’s talk about real foods over a bowl of Chicken Tortilla Soup

September 23, 2016

Avoid processed foods. They generally have more sugar, salt and fat, which can increase our risk of developing chronic illnesses. Make sure the foods you purchase and prepare will eventually spoil or rot. You might be surprised to learn that many of the foods we eat last for years – that’s right, years!

Protecting Yourself and Our Community from the Flu

September 22, 2016

Providence Health is dedicated to making communities healthier, a big part of which includes helping educate people about prevention. There are several things you can do to protect yourself from the flu and other infections, prevent it from spreading and speed up recovery, should you contract the virus.

Something filling for when the weather cools: Brunswick Stew

September 16, 2016

Edamame, a young soybean that has been harvested before the beans have had a chance to harden, is a good source of protein, iron and calcium. There is some evidence that soy may decrease the risks of age-related brain diseases, as well as cardiovascular, cancer, diabetes, and inflammatory processes. Add some to your Brunswick Stew!

It's Hot Outside: Are You Cooking Your Rx?

August 15, 2016

South Carolinians know the importance of keeping themselves cool during the hot summer months, but it is often forgotten that our medications need to stay cool, too!

An age-old, healthy spice in a colorful salad: Turmeric Mango Slaw

August 5, 2016

There is some evidence accumulating that consuming Turmeric regularly may prevent Alzheimer's disease, arthritis, and cancer. To know for sure the role that the spice plays in disease management, we will need more studies. Meanwhile, we can include it in a variety of recipes.

Local and seasonal never tasted better: Homemade Peach Ice Cream

July 21, 2016

Eating locally means eating seasonally. Including foods that are abundantly available into our eating habits is not only good for us nutritionally, it can also be helpful to our wallets. Seasonal foods are fresher, easier to get, more flavor and have a higher nutrition value.

Grilled Fruit and Angel Food Cake Dessert Skewers

July 1, 2016

Grilled desserts are a great way to end a cookout and can be pretty simple to prepare and serve. Grilled desserts are a great way to end a cookout and can be pretty simple to prepare and serve.

Enjoy Fresh Seasonal Vegetables in Cornbread Panzanella

June 10, 2016

I love the local farmer’s markets — they make it easy to get my fresh fruit and veggies. A quick roadside stop, pick up the produce and put together a salad like this Cornbread Panzanella, add some grilled fish or chicken, and the meal is finished.

Hospital Biz: Pastoral Puppetry and Succotash for the Sufferin’

June 6, 2016

Have you noticed someone green in the hallway at Providence? Not green in a sick way… a true grass green with bright yellow hair. That’s our felt friend Succotash, part of the Pastoral Care team, bringing smiles to faces and families at Providence.

Water Doesn't Have To Be Boring

May 24, 2016

Water! You know it's the best thing for you in terms of healthy drinks, but sometimes we get tired of having the same old, flavorless beverage. That's when you try infused water.

Hospital Biz: Delivering Patient Food with Heart

April 12, 2016

By talking to the patients, listening to them, and really trying to meet their wants, Cheryl Kennedy gives her patients more than vitamins, minerals and sustenance. She serves up joy.

Hospital Biz: Prevent Falls and Keep Patients Safe

April 25, 2016

Although some may feel that there is too much emphasis on the topic of patient falls, they are a crucial part of providing excellent patient-centered care. In fact, the topic is being researched, examined, and thoroughly discussed in organizations and institutions across the country.

Advance Directives

No one likes talking about dying or what kind of care they would like to have if they become unable to make medical decisions. However, it is important to have the discussion about Advance Directives to help honor your wishes and to offer peace of mind to you and your loved ones.

A Colorful Way to Mediterranean Your Diet

April 15, 2016

The Mediterranean diet is modeled on that of our friends across the ocean who live around that sea and eat meals around a table filled with family and friends. (Kind of sounds like a Southern thing.)

A Tale of Two Cities… Both Named Columbia

November 1, 2015

It was the worst of times here in early October of this year. No matter how much you prepared for record rainfall, you couldn’t prepare for the city-wide failing of dams and breaches in water filtration.