MaineHealth

This month, we’re proud to highlight two incredible achievements in our mission to provide world-class care to our communities: - #1 National Ranking in the Cancer Moonshot Biobank Program! MaineHealth leads the nation with 100 patients enrolled—and counting! The Cancer Moonshot Biobank, a National Cancer Institute initiative, is paving the way for groundbreaking research by collecting blood and tissue samples to better understand and treat cancer. Over 60% of those patients come from Maine's rural communities, showcasing our commitment to ensuring access to innovative care for all. Huge kudos to our MaineHealth Moonshot Team for their dedication! Learn more: moonshotbiobank.cancer.gov - MaineHealth Recognized on Becker’s List of Top Organizations in Cancer Care We’re thrilled to be featured on this prestigious list, underscoring the exceptional work of our care teams and their unwavering commitment to advancing cancer treatment and research. These milestones reflect the passion and innovation driving our team every day. Together, we’re making a difference in the fight against cancer, one patient at a time. #healthcareexcellence

Happy National Apprentice Week! We are thrilled to feature Bob, a current MaineHealth care team member and former apprentice with the Medical Assistant program. “I was amazed when I discovered the apprentice program to become a Medical Assistant. In fact, it seemed ‘too good to be true.’ Before I started the program, I had been a DSP working at a group home and later I was a CNA at a long-term care facility. This work was rather taxing physically and I knew I needed to find a different occupation long term. It was discouraging for me because I wanted to be in an occupation where I could “help” people. It was at that time I heard about the apprenticeship program. It was so good to see the practice from day one - the staff and my mentor, Rachel, were so nice, welcoming and instructive." "At this point I have just graduated from the program and I work in Behavioral Health, where I am learning new things every day, and still in my own way am able to help people. If you like being a service to our community, I highly recommend the occupation of Medical Assistant and this excellent apprentice program.” Maine Department of Labor https://lnkd.in/eH6N_azG

Care Team Member Spotlight! Bethany, Diane, Bridget – Medical Assistants Bridget started her career with MaineHealth in 2019 and joined the Neuro team almost a year ago as a Medical Assistant II. “I learned about my current position on the MaineHealth careers site”, said Bridget. “I was looking to learn a specialty and got so excited when I saw the opening for Neurosurgery and Spine. I knew instantly at my interview I had made the right choice!” Bridget added, “I really enjoy learning new things daily from my wonderful peers. We have team members that have been here for 30+ years and some just a few years, but the “melting pot” of knowledge everyone contributes to is phenomenal. We have such a great team clinically, administratively, and of course leadership as well. I love that I can ask questions and bounce ideas off anyone here - everyone is always willing to lend a helping hand. This team truly defines teamwork!” Bethany completed the Medical Assistant training program and has been working with this practice for over 8 years. “I applied to Mainehealth Neurosurgery & Spine and have been here ever since!”, Bethany stated. “I started as a Level 1 MA and worked up the MA Ladder Advancement Program to a level IV. I knew I wanted a career where I could help people and always had a fascination in learning more about the spine, where there is a history of spinal disorder in my family”. Bethany added, “Neurosurgery is a phenomenal place to work. I feel supported by all levels of staff from my MA peers and providers, all the way to management. The doctors are incredible resources and are always willing to teach us. Plenty of room to grow with many learning opportunities provided through MaineHealth.” Diane has been with MaineHealth for 26 years! After working in a variety of non-clinical roles, she made the switch to a Medical Assistant career. “I wanted to be more hands-on with patient care and am so glad I did”, said Diane. “My only regret is that I waited so long to make the move to direct patient care. I work with the fracture clinic and my favorite part of my job is being able to watch our patients come in after a major injury and then get the treatment that they need to be able to return to their daily lives.” Diane added, “What I enjoy most about my job is how everyone is always offering a helping hand. Teamwork between co-workers is amazing, and our patients see that." Diane, Bridget, Bethany – thank you all for sharing your inspiring career journeys and for the excellent patient-centered care that you provide to our community. We are so lucky to have you as an important part of the MaineHealth care team. We are hiring MAs at practices across MaineHealth, including Neurosurgery and Spine in Scarborough! Visit the link here to learn more: https://lnkd.in/ezhJ7Cui

To all the veterans who are part of our care team, and to those in the community: THANK YOU for your service!

Open enrollment has begun! CoverME.gov is the one-stop shop and the only place for Mainers to compare health insurance plans, find savings, and get answers. Enroll by Dec 15 for coverage starting Jan 1. Explore your options at CoverME.gov If you need assistance with enrolling in health insurance, please contact MaineHealth Access to Care https://bit.ly/4e4WFZB

In the pursuit of early detection and improved outcomes in lung health, Dr. Gary M. Hochheiser shares his perspective on the critical role of lung screening in combating one of the most common cancers in Maine: "As we enter November, designated as Lung Cancer Awareness Month, it's vital to recognize the impact of the leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Lung cancer claims more lives each year than breast, prostate, and colon cancers combined. Despite these numbers, early detection can make all the difference. For individuals at high risk—especially those aged 50-80, who are smokers or recently quit, Lung Cancer screening is available and has been shown to find lung cancers early improving outcomes from treatment. If you or someone you love is at risk, I strongly encourage you to discuss lung cancer screening with your healthcare provider. Early detection saves lives. It's important to remember that lung cancer is not exclusive to smokers. Non-smokers can also be affected, with factors such as family history, secondhand smoke, and environmental exposure playing a role. This November, let’s prioritize lung health by spreading awareness, supporting loved ones, and making screening a priority for those who qualify. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against lung cancer." Gary M. Hochheiser, MD Director of Thoracic Surgery & Medical Director for the Lung Screening Program MaineHealth Maine Medical Center For more information on screening options, visit Mainehealth.org/lungcancer.

Native American Heritage Month is celebrated in November to honor the remarkable Native Americans who have contributed to our nation. This month is also referred to as American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month. It is a time to rejoice in the diverse and rich cultures, histories, and traditions of Native American people. Federally recognized tribes in Maine include the Micmac, Maliseet, Penobscot, and Passamaquoddy.

MaineHealth is proud to be hosting the next Organization of Nursing Leadership business meeting on Friday, November 15th in Scarborough. Attendee Registration Required (no cost) -sign up here: https://omnl.org We encourage in-person attendance and will provide a Zoom option for the meeting as an alternative.

We’re excited to share the news that Governor Mills and Secretary of State Bellows have signed Maine’s Pink and Pearl Proclamation, officially dedicating the last week of October and the first week of November to raise awareness for breast and lung cancer. Through this partnership, the Maine CDC and health systems across Maine, including MaineHealth, are encouraging eligible adults to prioritize regular screenings for these cancers, which have some of the highest incidence rates in our state. Why Pink and Pearl? In Maine, breast and lung cancer affect more people than in many parts of the U.S., with breast cancer at a rate of 145.9 per 100,000 residents compared to 133.8 nationally. Lung cancer is also significantly above the national average and has tragically been the leading cause of cancer-related death here in Maine for the past two decades. The American Cancer Society estimates that 1,600 Maine residents will be diagnosed with lung cancer in 2024, and it is estimated that 840 Maine individuals will die from this disease this year. The goal of Pink and Pearl Weeks is to bring attention to these statistics and empower Mainers to take charge of their health through early detection. This Proclamation represents an important step forward in public health awareness, and MaineHealth is honored to be part of this initiative. If you or someone you know may be due for screening, talk to a healthcare provider about the right time to start. For more information, visit ScreenMaine.org.

On this one-year anniversary of the tragic events in Lewiston, our thoughts are with everyone impacted, including the loved ones of the victims and those who provided care. We send our support to the entire community with hope for continued healing. #LewistonStrong