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Gynecologist Earns Board Certification

February 2013


Vrunda Bhavsar
Gynecologist Vrunda Bhavsar, MD, successfully passed the examinations of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) to achieve board certification in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

To become board certified, Dr. Bhavsar passed a written and an oral exam to demonstrate that she had obtained the special knowledge and skills required for the medical and surgical care of women.

The American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology is an independent, non-profit organization that examines and certifies nearly 1,700 obstetricians and gynecologists in the United States. Founded in 1927, the ABOG is one of 24 specialty Boards recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties.

Hawthorn Medical Earns AAAHC Accreditation

February 2013

Hawthorn Medical has achieved accreditation by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC). Accreditation distinguishes this medical facility from others by demonstrating its commitment to provide safe, high quality care to patients.

Status as an accredited organization means Hawthorn Medical has met nationally recognized standards for the provision of quality health care, set by the Accreditation Association. The core standards include Rights of Patients, Governance, Administration, Quality of Care, Quality Management and Improvement, Clinical Records, Infection Control and Facilities.

"The doctors at Hawthorn Medical believe in trying to maintain the highest standards for our patients and feel that independent accreditation is the best standard for us to achieve. The accreditation is voluntary, however we take it very seriously," stated James P. Tracey, MD, Hawthorn President. "Achieving accreditation from AAAHC shows our patients that an independent, not-for-profit organization has closely examined our facility and procedures and determined that our organization provides the highest quality care possible."

Hawthorn Medical Awards $20,000 in Grants to Programs for Women and Families

November 2012

The Hawthorn Medical Associates Charitable Fund of the Community Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts has awarded $20,000 in grants to local programs focused on issues affecting women and families. "Hawthorn recognizes the importance of supporting worthwhile programs that make a difference in the communities we serve. We are pleased to be able to offer financial assistance to these organizations that do so much to empower and support women in need," said James Gularek, CEO of Hawthorn Medical Associates. Each of the following organizations was awarded a $5,000 grant:

  • The Fall River-based Children's Advocacy Center of Bristol County empowers children and families to heal from the trauma of abuse and violence through community partnerships, education and the pursuit of justice. The program funded is Mental Health Capacity Training for local mental health clinicians, an ongoing program to increase the number of clinicians trained to work with children suffering the effects of trauma.
  • The Women's Center received funding for its domestic violence shelters and hotline. Funding will support costs for shelter relief staff who answer a 24/7 hotline for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking, and who provide services to victims.
  • The Women's Fund of Southeastern Mass., received a grant towards its LifeWork for the WISE Woman project, whose goal is to enhance the career opportunities and financial management skills of economically challenged women through educational preparation, resulting in improved self-sufficiency, financial security and family stability.
  • The YWCA of Southeastern Mass. was awarded a grant for its Steps 2 Stability project, a financial empowerment educational program for women, especially those who are homeless, at-risk for being homeless, living in shelters, low-income, or seeking permanent housing. Women are able to transform their lives through participation in educational programming and services that focus on new beginnings and reaching financial self-sufficiency.

Hawthorn Medical Joins Steward Health Care

Hawthorn Medical Associates, LLC announced that it has entered into an affiliation agreement with Steward Health Care System LLC. Hawthorn is a network of more than 110 physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners, representing more than 19 specialties serving patients on the South Coast of Massachusetts.

"Hawthorn continually seeks to enhance the medical services we provide locally. An affiliation with Steward is a good fit for Hawthorn because Steward is a community health care organization that is committed to investing in the communities it serves," stated CEO James Gularek.

"Our new relationship with Steward Health Care allows Hawthorn to expand our services, gain access to a greater scope of health plans and join with a strong partner invested in the community without having to change any of our current doctor-patient relationships. I anticipate that our patients will not notice any changes through the transition. They will still be able to go to the local hospital of their choice," said James P. Tracey, MD, President of Hawthorn Medical Associates.

Through this affiliation, Hawthorn and Steward will work together to provide enhanced patient care on the South Coast and lower total medical expense. As part of the agreement, Hawthorn will operate under Steward's global payment contracts with commercial insurers. This reimbursement model lowers health care costs and enables providers to tailor their practices to meet the specific needs of their patients. This affiliation also gives Hawthorn providers expanded access to Steward's network of health care providers including Saint Anne's Hospital in Fall River.


SEE ALSO
FAQ: Hawthorn's affiliation with Steward Health Care System
Steward Health Care System website

"Hawthorn is a group of high quality physicians and providers that share our commitment to providing world class health care in the communities where patients live," said Mark Girard, MD, Executive Vice President of Steward and President of Steward Health Care Network. "By integrating with a local hospital, Hawthorn can maintain the quality of care they deliver while also offering patients enhanced convenience and lower health care costs."

About Steward Health Care
Steward Health Care is the largest fully integrated community care organization and community hospital network in New England. Headquartered in Boston, Steward is the third largest employer in MA with more than 17,000 employees serving more than one million patients annually in 85 communities. Hospitals in the system include Saint Anne's in Fall River, Holy Family Hospital in Methuen, St. Elizabeth's Medical Center in Brighton, Norwood Hospital, Carney Hospital in Dorchester, Good Samaritan Medical Center in Brockton, Nashoba Valley Medical Center in Ayer, Merrimack Valley Hospital in Haverhill, Morton Hospital and Medical Center in Taunton and Quincy Medical Center. Other Steward Health Care entities include Steward Medical Group, Steward Hospice and Home Care, Labouré College, and Por Cristo. Further information is available at www.steward.org.

Hawthorn Medical Welcomes New Physicians

August 2012

Hawthorn Medical Associates is pleased to welcome several new physicians.

Eleni Rethimiotakis, MD, a Family Medicine physician, has joined the practice. She is seeing patients at the Family Medicine Department, 535 Faunce Corner Road, Dartmouth. Dr. Rethimiotakis has practiced in the New Bedford area for more than 15 years. She is a graduate of the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada and completed a Family Practice residency at the University of Western Ontario. She is board certified by the American Board of Family Practice.


Eleni Rethimiotakis

Chad S. Beattie

Jordan C. Gularek

Paul S. Sepe

Chad S. Beattie, MD, a Primary Care Sports Medicine physician, has joined the Orthopedic Department. He is a graduate of St. George's University School of Medicine. He completed a Family Medicine and Community Health residency as well as Primary Care Sports Medicine fellowship at the University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center/Hahnemann Family Health Center. He is a member of the American College of Sports Medicine, American Medical Society of Sports Medicine, American Academy of Family Physicians and Massachusetts Medical Society. As a Primary Care Sports Medicine physician, Dr. Beattie takes a non-surgical approach to the treatment of musculoskeletal sports conditions and focuses on treating the whole patient to prevent injury, improve performance and enhance overall health for child and adult athletes of all skill levels. He is welcoming patients of all ages.

Jordan C. Gularek, DO, an Internal Medicine physician, is a graduate of Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine, and completed an Internal Medicine residency at Pinnacle Health System in Harrisburg, PA, where he was Chief Internal Medicine Resident. He is a member of the American College of Physicians, American College of Osteopathic Internist, and American Osteopathic Association. Dr. Gularek is accepting new patients.

Gastroenterologist Paul S. Sepe, MD, earned his Medical Doctorate from Harvard Medical School. He completed an Internal Medicine residency at Massachusetts General Hospital and a Gastroenterology Fellowship and an Advanced Endoscopy Fellowship at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School. He is board certified in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology and is a member of the Massachusetts Medical Society, American Gastroenterological Association, American College of Gastroenterology and the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. He is welcoming new patients.

Hawthorn Sleep Center Earns AASM Re-Accreditation

August 2012

The Hawthorn Sleep Center has achieved a five-year re-accreditation by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) reflecting excellence in sleep medicine.

Accreditation is a voluntary process for assessment of sleep programs and is based on the Standards for Accreditation established by the AASM. The AASM is a professional medical association representing sleep medicine practitioners and is dedicated to the assurance of quality care for patients with sleep disorders, advancement of sleep research, and public and professional education.

The accreditation process undertaken by the Hawthorn Sleep Center included completing an extensive application to document compliance with the Standards for Accreditation. Designed to guarantee quality and meet the needs of patients and referring physicians, the Standards address multiple areas of a sleep center including having a patient environment where dignity and safety are upheld, having knowledgeable, trained technical staff, having a sleep specialist who reviews all sleep studies, and ensuring that there are ongoing quality assurance programs in place.

The Hawthorn Sleep Center opened in February 2007 at the Hawthorn Medical Associates site at 535 Faunce Corner Road, Dartmouth. Neurologists Robert Conroy, DO, Juan Cuebas, MD and Nurse Practitioner Linda Kampf provide evaluation and treatment for sleep disorders such as insomnia, jet lag, problems related to shift work, narcolepsy, sleep-related movement disorders such as restless leg syndrome, and obstructive sleep apnea. The center has six sleep study rooms equipped with the latest technology and the feel of a fine hotel.

Gynecologist Certified by North American Menopause Society

July 2012


Susan Vogler
Gynecologist Susan Vogler, DO, was recently certified by the North American Menopause Society (NAMS) as a NAMS Certified Menopause Practitioner (NCMP). Dr. Vogler successfully met the criteria and passed the examination necessary to become certified. Founded in 1989, NAMS is North America's leading nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health and quality of life through an understanding of menopause. Those who hold NCMP certification have demonstrated special interest and competency in the field of menopause.

Board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Vogler has special interest in laparoscopic procedures, preventive medicine, menopausal changes and mid-life issues.

Hawthorn Medical Announces Pulmonary Nodule Program

Connects patients with a specialist within 24 hours
March 2012

Hawthorn Medical has developed the Pulmonary Nodule Program as part of the practice's continuing efforts to respond promptly and effectively to patient needs. When a chest x-ray or chest CT scan detects a lung abnormality, the Pulmonary Nodule Program provides patients with the opportunity to meet with a physician within 24 hours.

Often, a nodule is detected as a result of a routine chest x-ray or chest CT scan. While most solitary pulmonary nodules are benign, or non-cancerous, if the nodule is malignant, an oncologist sees the patient right away. The program makes a difference in cancer treatment, if it is necessary, because the prompt diagnosis and early treatment may provide the best chance of curing the disease. By connecting patients immediately to a pulmonologist or oncologist, we are able to relieve them of the stress and anxiety of waiting.

Rehabiliation Services Offers New Physical Activity Program for Cancer Survivors

March 2012

The Hawthorn Rehabilitation Services Center is now offering a free specialized physical activity program for cancer survivors that focuses on stretching, mild muscular toning, balance activities and educational topics.

"Moving Forward at Hawthorn Medical—Physical Activity for the Cancer Survivor" is the newest addition to the continuum of services Hawthorn Medical provides for cancer survivors to assist them in maintaining function or restoring lost function. Physical Activity for Cancer Survivors is conducted by registered therapists certified in oncology rehabilitation by the STAR Program from Oncology Rehab Partners.

As Sherry Spencer-Brown, PT, CLT-LANA, STAR Program Clinician and Liaison, explains, "Patients who are having or have had treatment for cancer are often unable to return to their prior level of function or realize their greatest potential. We recognize cancer survivorship as a distinct phase of a person's cancer journey and strive to enhance their quality of life through movement." Issues that may affect the quality of life include weakness, limited motion and flexibility, fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, balance problems, and neuropathy.

In a small group setting, participants will enjoy the benefits of stretching and toning as well as education on areas such as stress management, nutrition, introduction to yoga, and energy conservation. Classes are held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 12:00 to 12:45 pm at the Hawthorn Rehabilitation Services Center, 535 Faunce Corner Road. There is no charge for cancer survivors to participate in the program. Cancer survivors may join at any time and are encouraged to attend the two classes each week for six weeks. For to register for the program, call 508-961-2925.

February 2012
Diagnostic Imaging Center Now Using Low-dose CT Technology
November 2011
Community Foundation's Hawthorn Medical Charitable Fund Awards Grants
October 2011
Hawthorn Medical Expands Oncology Rehab Services to Cancer Survivors, Earns Star Program Certification
October 2011
Hawthorn Medical Associates Invites Public to Tour Newly Renovated Rehabilitation Center
Fall 2011
Hawthorn Medical Welcomes Several New Physicians
July 2011
Hawthorn Medical Welcomes Sachin Maskey, MD
June 2011
Hawthorn Medical Awards Scholarships to Area High School Seniors
June 2011
Hawthorn Medical Diagnostic Imaging Department Receives Accreditation
May 2011
Hawthorn Medical Adds Certified Lymphedema Therapist for Oncology Rehabilitation Program
March 2011
Look for Hawthorn Medical at Upcoming Community Events
January 2011
Hawthorn Medical Employees Earn Awards of Excellence
January 2011
Hawthorn Medical Associates Welcomes Neurologist Juan E. Cuebas, MD
November 2010
Free Extreme Ski & Sports Seminar
October 2010
Hawthorn Medical Diagnostic Imaging Department Receives Accreditations
September 2010
Hawthorn Medical Welcomes Endocrinologist
July 2010
Vascular Surgeon Elected Member of Society for Vascular Surgery
July 2010
Hawthorn Medical Associates Welcomes Cardiologist
July 2010
Hawthorn Medical Associates Welcomes Endocrinologist
June 2010
Hawthorn Medical Associates Awards Scholarships to Area High School Seniors
April 2010
Hawthorn Medical Earns AAAHC Accreditation
March 2010
Hawthorn Medical Associates Employees Earn Awards of Excellence
February 2010
Neurologist Earns Board Certification
January 2010
Sleep Disorders Is Topic of Upcoming Program
December 2009
Hawthorn Medical Welcomes Earl Potts Jr., MD
November 2009
Hawthorn Medical Welcomes Wendell C. Jones, MD
October 2009
Hawthorn Medical Associates Receives Recognition
August 2009
Hawthorn Medical Welcomes General Surgeon
August 2009
Hawthorn Cancer Center Open House
July 2009
Staff Members Achieve Certified Diabetes Educator Status
July 2009
Hawthorn Medical Awards Scholarships to High School Seniors
July 2009
Hawthorn Medical Welcomes Elliott J. Anderson, MD to Cancer Center
June 2009
Hawthorn Commercial to Air on Cable TV
April 2009
Orthopedic Surgeon Inducted into Academy
April 2009
Hawthorn Medical Diabetes Education Program Merits ADA Recognition
April 2009
Hawthorn Medical Welcomes Vascular Surgeons
February 2009
Hawthorn Medical Sleep Center Earns AASM Accreditation
February 2009
Lonnie Houghton, PA-C, Recognized by the American Academy of Physician Assistants
January 2009
Hawthorn Medical Associates Welcomes Otolaryngologist Rachael Smith, MD
January 2009
Hawthorn Medical Associates Employees Earn Awards of Excellence
October 2008
Free Balance and Posture Screenings Offered
August 2008
Hawthorn Medical Associates Welcomes Paul M. Milhoua, MD, Urologist
July 2008
Hawthorn Medical Associates Welcomes Cardiologist Michael J. Rocha, MD
May 2008
Hawthorn Awards Scholarships to High School Seniors
June 2008
Special Program for Cancer Patients/Survivors
April 2008
Hawthorn Medical Associates Opens Ambulatory Surgery Center
April 2008
Hawthorn Medical Associates Welcomes Nephrologist David J. Shih, MD
April 2008
Hawthorn Cancer Center and American Cancer Society Present "Chemo Brain!—The Play
January 2008
Two Hawthorn Medical Associates Employees Earn Awards of Excellence
December 2007
Hawthorn Medical Associates Welcomes Cardiologist Jonathan D. Bier, MD, FACC
November 2007
Hawthorn Medical Welcomes Cardiologist Jack A. Howard, MD, FACC
November 2007
State Road Laboratory Open on Sunday
October 2007
Hawthorn Physical Therapy Department Hosts Education Program
August 2007
Hawthorn Medical Associates Welcomes Matthew A. Kippe, MD
July 2007
Hawthorn Medical Associates Awards Scholarships to High School Seniors
May 2007
Annual Heart Party Held
April 2007
Hawthorn Medical Welcomes Urologists
March 2007
Hawthorn Medical Introduces PET/CT Imaging Technology
March 2007
Hawthorn Medical Introduces High-Definition Endoscopy
February 2007
Hawthorn Medical Welcomes J. Mi Lee Haisman, MD
February 2007
Hawthorn Medical Welcomes Karmina P. Bautista, MD
January 2007
Two Hawthorn Medical Associates Employees Earn Awards of Excellence
January 2007
Emergency Medicine Physician Joins Urgent Care Center Staff
October 2006
Hawthorn Earns Nesson Award
November 2006
New Scholarship Program Launched
October 2006
Hawthorn Medical Associates Welcomes Thomas M. Vallone, DO
October 2006
Hawthorn Provides Free Mammograms
August 2006
Diabetes Education Program Merits ADA Recognition
August 2006
Janet Morgado Certified
July 2006
Open House at 535 a Great Success
May 2006
Hawthorn "Heart Party" a Success
January 2006
Two Employees Earn Awards of Excellence
October 2005
Free Mammograms During Breast Cancer Awareness Event
September 2005
"Dressing Down" to Help the American Red Cross

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