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By Ho Pak, MD, FACS, Director of Surgical Oncology, Surgical Oncologist, Thoracic Surgeon
Lung cancer is the top cause of cancer-related deaths and ranks as the second most common cancer affecting both men and women in the United States. According to the National Cancer Institute, an estimated 234,500 people in the U.S. will receive a lung cancer diagnosis in 2024. While tobacco smoking is the leading cause, more non-smokers, especially women, are getting lung cancer.
The main risk factors for developing lung cancer may include:
Lung cancer symptoms can vary from person to person. Many people with lung cancer may have no symptoms, but when symptoms are present, they may include:
Please remember, these symptoms may occur with other health conditions and are not only linked to lung cancer. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to talk with your family doctor about screening and diagnosis options.
"Detecting lung cancer early can make treatment much more successful,” said Dr. Ho Pak, Director of Surgical Oncology, Surgical Oncologist and Thoracic Surgeon, with Redeemer Health in partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper.
Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans are an effective tool for finding lung cancer early. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends annual LDCT screening in adults aged 50 to 80 years who have a 20 pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years. If you meet these criteria and want to be screened, talk with your doctor about your options. Also check with your insurance provider to see what is covered.
To learn more about the lung cancer screening options available at Redeemer Health, visit redeemerhealth.org/lung-cancer-screening or call 215-938-LUNG (5864).
The Redeemer Health in partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper lung cancer program maintains nationally recognized accreditation through the Care Continuum Center of Excellence by the GO2 Foundation for Lung Cancer and is recognized as a Screening Center of Excellence by the Lung Cancer Alliance. Click here to learn more.
About the Author: Dr. Ho Pak is a board-certified surgical oncologist and thoracic surgeon specializing in surgical treatment of cancers of the thyroid and parathyroid, lungs, esophagus, liver, stomach, pancreas and soft tissue, such as sarcoma and melanoma. Dr. Pak earned his medical degree from Temple University. He completed his surgical internship and residency at Abington Memorial Hospital, and he completed a fellowship in Surgical Oncology at the National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health.
MEADOWBROOK, PA – OCTOBER 2024 — Little Flower Manor and St. Joseph Manor have been ranked among the top five skilled care facilities of their size in Pennsylvania in Newsweek's "Best Nursing Homes 2025" list.
To earn spots on this prestigious list, communities were evaluated by Newsweek's global research partner, Statista, on four critical pillars:
"This recognition serves as a testament to the unwavering dedication of our staff and the trust placed in us by our residents and their families," said Rosemary Port, RN, NHA, Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer at Little Flower Manor. "Being included in Newsweek's 'Best Nursing Homes 2025' list reflects our commitment to providing exceptional care and support to our residents," added D. Freeman, RN, BSN, NHA, PCA, Vice President & Administrator at St. Joseph Manor.
About Little Flower Manor and St. Joseph Manor
Little Flower Manor, located in Darby Township, PA, and St. Joseph Manor, located in Abington Township, PA, are Redeemer Senior Living communities offering short-term rehabilitation and long-term care services. They have received national recognition for quality care and service, earning Newsweek's "Best Nursing Home" distinction over several years and 5-star Medicare ratings. As members of the Redeemer Health family, both facilities benefit from the strength and resources of an integrated health care system that provides a full continuum of aging services supporting diverse lifestyles and needs—from active adult living to skilled nursing care.
Redeemer Health also encompasses a 239-bed acute care hospital, a physician network, outpatient services, a 31-bed transitional care unit, and home health and hospice services. For more information, visit redeemerseniorliving.org.
MEADOWBROOK, PA – SEPTEMBER 2024 — Pennsylvania Speaker of the House, Rep. Joanna McClinton (D-191), engaged Redeemer Health employees in discussion at Little Flower Manor, a skilled nursing facility in Darby, Pa.
The discussion included the Redeemer Health CEO, the Little Flower Manor executive director and board chair, and direct patient care employees. Two themes that surfaced in a dialogue about Pennsylvania’s challenges in long term care were staffing in a post-COVID job market, and Medicaid reimbursement shortfalls.
“It was an honor hosting Speaker McClinton,” said Redeemer Health CEO Greg Wozniak. “Her genuine concern and awareness of the challenges in long term care reflect her allegiance to the families in her district and across the Commonwealth.”
Speaker McClinton also toured Little Flower Manor, giving her the opportunity to talk with employees who provide direct patient care. “Meeting my neighbors who work on the front lines delivering patient care informs the policy development I do in Harrisburg,” said Speaker McClinton. “I appreciate the staff and administrators at Little Flower Manor for providing useful insight that made my tour extremely valuable.”
Improving the wellbeing and quality of life for residents in Delaware and Philadelphia counties are among Speaker McClinton’s top priorities, and that begins with their health, she explained. Speaker McClinton and House colleagues have fought tirelessly to advance initiatives that would help recruit more care providers and ensure the providers are adequately compensated for care they offer.
The 127-bed Little Flower Manor routinely scores the highest ratings in US News’ and Newsweek’s “Best Nursing Homes” editions. Originally founded in 1977, Little Flower Manor became part of the Redeemer Health system in 2017.
Breastfeeding has been shown to be one of the best things a mother can do to protect her baby’s health. Breast milk contains antibodies that help protect against infections and illnesses, reducing the risk of certain health conditions for both infants and mothers.
Some of the benefits for infants include reduced risk of respiratory infections, ear infections, and diarrhea. Breastfeeding has also been linked to a lower risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
For mothers, breastfeeding can reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Breastfeeding triggers the release of hormones such as oxytocin and prolactin, which not only promote the production of breast milk but also contribute to stress reduction and relaxation for both mother and baby.
The Power of Together:
Breastfeeding in the early weeks can sometimes be a challenge for new moms, but the benefits are worth it! Getting help from your family, friends, babysitters, and others can make breastfeeding a smoother experience.
For example, your family can help by doing chores and watching older kids. Your health care provider can guide you to useful resources including breastfeeding support groups and online forums. And, if and when you return to work, your employer can assist by offering a private space for pumping or other flexible arrangements to make continued breastfeeding possible.
Additional Breastfeeding Support and Resources:
At Redeemer Health, our compassionate, knowledgeable lactation consultants will give you personalized support and guidance every step of the way.
Click here to read more about breastfeeding basics, including free lactation help resources, useful tips for partners and grandparents, and FAQs about getting started with breastfeeding.
We also offer a variety of breastfeeding resources and videos on our website and in our online community @redeemerbaby on Instagram and Facebook, where you can meet and stay connected with other new moms.
To learn more about our maternity care services and to download other useful educational materials about childbirth, breastfeeding, and after-delivery care, visit redeemerhealth.org/maternitycare.
A caring and generous donation benefiting our NICU families.
Krystal and Andrew Rigney from Croydon, Pa., had to bring their two little kids to the Holy Redeemer Hospital NICU last week.
This time, though, it was a happy occasion. Recalling their last visit in March 2021 when their son, Atlas, needed to spend a few days in an incubator, they returned to show their gratitude.
As a representative from PaperPie books, Krystal and her family donated a carton of children’s books for new parents to take home with their bundles of joy.
Both Atlas and his little sister, Rhea, were born at Holy Redeemer Hospital. “My husband and I had incredible experiences at Holy Redeemer Hospital for both of my deliveries,” Krystal said. “The doctors and nurses during my son’s stay in the NICU were amazing, and I can’t even begin to thank them for their kindness. They helped put our minds at ease when we were scared as first-time parents.”
The PaperPie books donated by the Rigneys will give new parents great stories to tell their babies, with ducklings, owls, bunnies, and even wombats.
“As a parent feeling completely ill-prepared for your baby’s stay in the NICU, I think having something to read helps comfort both you and your baby,” Krystal said.
Their visit was special for Atlas, who got to peek at tiny newborns in the incubators where he spent his first few days.
Thank you, Rigney family, for the fabulous and generous donation!
MEADOWBROOK, PA – AUGUST 2024 — Redeemer Health Richboro has been awarded a three-year accreditation in ultrasound after an extensive review by the American College of Radiology (ACR). This gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of imaging quality and patient safety.
This accreditation allows the facility to perform general, gynecological and obstetrical ultrasound, as well as pediatric, vascular, peripheral venous and cerebrovascular.
Congratulations, Redeemer Health Richboro, for your outstanding achievement.
In the Philadelphia metropolitan area, nursing professionals are thriving, especially in skilled nursing facilities. The demand for skilled nursing care is high, providing consistent job opportunities for RNs, LPNs, and certified nursing assistants (CNAs). In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights our region as fertile ground for nursing careers due to an aging population and increasing rates of chronic illnesses.
So Many Rewards in Skilled Nursing Care
While job stability in skilled nursing is unquestionable, working in skilled nursing facilities offers nursing professionals a unique set of rewards not commonly found in other health care environments.
In skilled nursing facilities, nurses collaborate in interdisciplinary teams to develop personalized care plans—which can last for several weeks to several years—for patients recuperating from surgeries, injuries, or acute illnesses. Skilled nursing professionals deliver precise and specialized care through these plans, witnessing the substantial progress patients make over time during their recovery journeys.
This extended duration of care not only fosters significant improvements for patients but also cultivates deeper connections between nursing professionals and patients. The emphasis on individualized care, measurable progress, and the opportunity for meaningful patient relationships sets skilled nursing apart as an attractive choice for many nursing professionals compared to hospital or outpatient settings.
“The Lafayette and St. Joseph Manor, which are Redeemer Health skilled nursing facilities, provide a level of personalized, holistic care that simply isn't possible in most hospital settings. Our nurses and CNAs have the opportunity to truly get to know each patient or resident, to understand their unique needs, goals, and life stories. This allows us to deliver care that is tailored to the individual, not just the illness or injury. Our nurses and CNAs are not just caregivers—they are mentors, advocates, and friends to those in their care,” says Patricia Benz, a skilled nursing talent recruiter for The Lafayette and St Joseph Manor.
The Lafayette and St. Joseph Manor: Supporting Nursing Professionals
Redeemer Health skilled nursing facilities, including The Lafayette and St. Joseph Manor, stand out as supportive environments for nursing professionals looking for fulfilling careers.
Through significant rate increases that honor the crucial role of skilled nursing professionals to fostering continuous learning through access to tuition assistance and nursing scholarship opportunities, Redeemer Health is committed to creating an environment that promotes professional growth.
Additionally, newly hired skilled nursing professionals value Redeemer Health’s Nurse Residency Program, which equips them with the necessary tools and mentorship for success in skilled nursing care. “In the Nurse Residency Program, nothing is ever the right or wrong question. You get to share your ideas. It makes me a better professional because I get to enhance what I’ve taken from the Nurse Residency Program and carry it on while I’m at work,” says Leashiea Reid, LPN, The Lafayette.
Explore Opportunities Now!
"There has never been a better time to join our rapidly expanding skilled nursing team at The Lafayette or St. Joseph Manor. We now offer increased rates and sign-on bonuses, plus with both facilities earning nationally recognized distinctions for short-term rehab and long-term care, now is the perfect time to be part of our journey towards excellence and seize exceptional opportunities for professional growth and personal fulfillment," says Patricia.
Redeemer Health welcomes you to consider RN, LPN, and CNA opportunities at The Lafayette and St. Joseph Manor. Click here to explore and apply for available jobs today.
By Lauren Matsnev, MD, OB-GYN at at Kramer OB-GYN and Associates, a Redeemer Health practice providing complete obstetrical and gynecological care
Protecting your health and your baby’s well-being during pregnancy is a top priority. This includes going for routine check-ups and getting regular screenings recommended by your doctor.
One particularly important screening in the third trimester is for Group B Streptococcus (GBS), commonly known as Group B Strep.
What is Group B Strep?
GBS is a type of bacteria often found in the genital or gastrointestinal tracts of healthy women. While generally harmless in adults, GBS can pose significant risks during pregnancy and childbirth.
Why is GBS screening important?
During pregnancy, GBS may occasionally lead to UTIs or other infections, which are treatable with antibiotics. For newborns, exposure to GBS during delivery can result in severe infections like pneumonia, sepsis, or meningitis. These conditions can be life-threatening, making it critical to know if you have GBS.
When and how are you tested for GBS?
Testing for GBS is typically done between weeks 35-37 of pregnancy. The procedure is quick, painless, and usually performed during a regular prenatal visit. Knowing whether you have GBS enables you and your health care provider to take the necessary precautions to protect your baby during delivery.
What happens if you test positive for GBS:
If you test positive for GBS, you will receive antibiotics during labor. These antibiotics are safe for both you and your baby and significantly reduce the risk of transmitting the bacteria during childbirth. Should any complications occur from GBS, hospital staff are well-trained to provide immediate antibiotics and closely monitor your baby after birth.
Knowing your GBS status is the first step in safeguarding your baby during childbirth.
By getting tested, discussing antibiotics with your doctor, and taking timely action during delivery, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with Group B Strep.
Take charge of your pregnancy health today. Talk with your doctor about GBS testing and make informed choices to protect the well-being of your precious new arrival.
To find a Redeemer Health OB-GYN near you, call our Physician Referral Service at 800-818-4747 or visit the Find a Provider directory on Redeemer Health’s website.
Holy Redeemer Hospital’s maternity center is recognized as a Blue Distinction Center+ by the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association for its history of delivering high-quality maternal care, safely and effectively.
If you are expecting a new baby, be sure to visit RedeemerHealth.org/MaternityCare to register for a tour of our maternity center, access helpful educational resources and videos, and join our Redeemer Baby Online Community, where you can meet and stay connected with other new moms.
About the Author: Lauren Matsnev, MD, is an Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OB-GYN) specializing in pregnancy, childbirth, and women's reproductive health. She received her medical degree from Drexel University College of Medicine. Dr. Matsnev currently sees patients at Kramer OB-GYN and Associates, a Redeemer Health practice providing complete obstetrical and gynecological care.