•FDA 510k-cleared real-time 3D intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) catheter has potential to improve standard of care for structural heart disease and electrophysiology procedures 
•Reduced need for general anesthesia accelerates workflows, increases efficiency, and broadens treatment options
 
 
July 1 2021 – Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA), a global leader in health technology, today announced the first minimally-invasive heart procedure using its new real-time 3D intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) catheter. The Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion (LAAO) procedure was carried out by Mohamad Adnan Alkhouli, M.D., at Mayo Clinic (Minnesota, U.S.). Used together with Philips Premium Cardiology Ultrasound System (EPIQ CVx), the real-time 3D Philips Intracardiac Echocardiography Catheter – VeriSight Pro – offers superior 2D and 3D live image guidance for a wide range of procedures in structural heart disease and electrophysiology, allowing interventionalists to navigate procedures with ease, provide superior care, and optimize cath lab performance.
 
Live ultrasound imaging during structural heart disease and electrophysiology procedures typically relies on transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) imaging, in which an ultrasound probe is passed down the patient’s throat and into their esophagus, until it lies next to the heart. TEE requires the patient to be sedated or given general anesthesia, lengthening preparation, procedure, and recovery times and carrying a degree of risk. Philips’ ICE catheter VeriSight Pro uses the same ultrasound technology, miniaturized to fit on the tip of a 1.98mm diameter (9 French) catheter so that it can be navigated to the patient’s heart via their vasculature – the same route used to introduce other catheters during minimally-invasive cardiac surgery. General anesthesia is typically not required, reducing patient risk, and opening up procedures to patients who are not good anesthesia candidates.
 
“Securing the best-possible live images enables interventional cardiologists and electrophysiologists to boost procedure confidence and deliver optimum outcomes for more patients,” said Chris Landon, Senior Vice President and General Manager Image Guided Therapy Devices at Philips. “The exceptional 2D and 3D imaging capabilities of Philips Intracardiac Echocardiology Catheter – VeriSight Pro – make it a superb choice for image guidance in interventional procedures, reducing reliance on general anesthesia and the logistical hurdles that go with it.”
 
For interventional cardiologists, VeriSight Pro delivers a good alternative high quality 3D live image to TEE, including 3D Volume and Color Flow imaging. Based on Philips’ innovative xMATRIX 3D ultrasound transducer technology, Verisight Pro can provide a 90 by 90 degree 3D field of view as well as allowing physicians to view two scan planes simultaneously – for example, the long and short axes of the left atrial appendage (LAA) to select the appropriately sized device for LAA closure. VeriSight Pro provides superior 2D ICE imaging, as well as the ability to access new views more easily. Interventionalists can digitally change the scan angle to capture views without manually repositioning the ultrasound tip, a unique feature of this ICE catheter.
 
Philips Intracardiac Echocardiology Catheter – VeriSight Pro – is designed to be used with Philips Premium Cardiology Ultrasound System (EPIQ CVx). Philips offers integrated solutions for the treatment of Structural Heart Disease, combining interventional X-ray, 3D ultrasound and related interventional tools that are designed to enable confident navigation and positioning of devices to optimize outcomes while reducing procedure time.
 
Philips Intracardiac Echocardiology Catheter – VeriSight Pro – is available on a limited basis in the U.S.
 


Interactive Flip Book of July Issue



July 1 2021 – As the holiday weekend approaches, the Florida Department of Health in Miami- Dade County urges residents to celebrate a safe Fourth of July and to use extreme caution with fireworks.
 
Thousands of firework-related injuries are treated in hospital emergency rooms across the country each year. Most often those injured are children and teens while using consumer fireworks. If used improperly, fireworks can result in injury to the eyes, as well as varying degrees of burns on the skin, fires and even death. People can enjoy  fireworks  safely  if  they  follow  a  few simple safety tips.
 
Additionally,  there are year-round precautions individuals and parents can take to prevent potential injuries.
Be prepared:
 
•Know and follow all county and city fireworks laws for your area.
•Never use homemade and/or illegal fireworks.
•Clear away any dry vegetation and debris from the area before igniting any fireworks.
•Always have a water source, full bucket of water and/or fire- extinguisher, close at hand.
•Make sure your pets are indoors before you begin, to reduce the risk they will run loose or get injured. Animals have sensitive ears and can be frightened or stressed during a fireworks celebration.
 
While celebrating:
 
•Be sure those watching are at a safe distance from where fireworks are being ignited.
•Use safety eyewear, glasses or goggles, to protect your eyes while igniting fireworks.
•Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
•Do not allow children to play with or light fireworks.
•Sparklers should only be used under close adult supervision. While often considered a “safe” firework for the young, the tip of a
 
sparkler burns at 1,200 degrees or higher, which can cause third degree burns.
•If a firework does not light or fire, let it sit for at least 20 minutes then carefully place it in a bucket of water.
 
Clean up:
 
•Make sure fireworks are cold before handling and place all used fireworks into a bucket of water.
•Clean up all debris.
•Be sure matches, lighters and any unused fireworks are out of the sight and reach of children before, during and after your celebration.
 
Check with your local fire and police departments for guidance on permitted fireworks. Better yet, to avoid these risks, leave the celebratory fireworks to trained professionals.
On average, the number of reported fires in the U.S. is substantially higher on the July 4th holiday. It’s estimated that consumer fireworks account for almost half of these reported fires, more than any other potential cause. Protect your family, home and property from potential danger by being informed on the hazards posed by using consumer fireworks.
Take these simple steps before, during and after using consumer fireworks to help keep you, your family and pets healthy, and your celebration safe.
Finally, as with any activity involving hazardous equipment, keep all children under active supervision when they are near fireworks. Keep children in sight and within reach at all times, with your undivided attention focused on them. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to watch them at a community event where professionals handle them.
Remember to follow COVID-19 prevention measures as you celebrate the holiday.
 
About the Florida Department of Health
 
The department works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.
Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.
 


As part of the chamber’s membership, small business owners now have access to affordable,accessible health insurance plans 
 
June 30, 2021 – At a time when healthcare seems increasingly inaccessible to so many small businesses,  AvMed and the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce (GMCCC) are partnering to offer affordable health insurance option for businesses of 5 to 50 employees.  
 
The jointly-launched program, called the Greater Health Trust (GHT), allows small businesses to attain affordable health coverage and benefit options for their employees.  Organizations must be members of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce in order to access benefits of the Greater Health  Trust.
 
Like other multiple employer healthcare arrangements, the goal is to provide corporate-level health benefits to small businesses and their employees at a lower cost than conventional insurers.  
 
Research shows that almost half of small business owners have increased deductibles or copayments for their employees, and a quarter have required their employees to pay higher premiums. A recent article in HealthcareDive.com cited findings from a poll sponsored by the Small Business Majority and patient advocacy group Families USA noting that “small businesses are struggling to cover the high costs of health insurance for their employees after a year of COVID-19.”
 
The comprehensive health plans offered through the GHT are designed to fit employees’ needs and employer’s budgets, while providing a broad network of doctors and hospitals; competitive rates with a fixed, monthly payment; and quality service with AvMed’s Florida-based customer service. 
 
“Small businesses are the backbone of our community and healthcare is increasingly challenging for them to access,” said Alfred Sanchez, president and chief executive officer at Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce. “The Greater Health Trust is an invaluable asset to small businesses looking to provide robust, but affordable healthcare options for their employees. This is an absolute win/win for all.”
 
“We have seen an overwhelming need for more affordable health coverage for small businesses,” said James M. Repp, president and chief operating officer at AvMed. “We look forward to seeing the great impact we can make for small businesses right here in our South Florida community.” 
 
For more information on the Greater Health Trust, send an email requesting information to:  GHT-quoting@avmed.org. 
 
 
About AvMed
AvMed transforms lives to create a WELLfluentTM world. By uniting around this sole purpose over our 50-year history, we’ve aimed to inspire our Floridian health plan Members to focus on celebrating the riches that matter most— health and happiness. Learn more at AvMed.org.
 
About the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce is the proud champion for the Greater Miami Business Community and a civic engine that fuels the advancement of The Magic City. Founded in 1907 as the Miami Board of Trade, today’s Chamber boasts representing more than 400,000-member company employees and is heralded for its legacy of leadership in economic development, and its unwavering commitment to improving the Miami-Dade community. For more information, please visit www.MiamiChamber.com. 
 


“Mental Health Matters – Returning with Resilience” to Premier on Facebook @TykesTeens
 
July 1, 2021 – There is no question COVID-19 has been a very long and devastating pandemic. Despite the lifting of restrictions, vaccinations and returning to schools, the pandemic’s aftermath is continuing to have an impact on the mental health of our children, families, teachers, childcare providers and the community as a whole. The need has never been greater to focus on mental health awareness and removing the stigma and shame often associated with seeking mental health treatment.  
 
To prepare parents and students for a mentally resilient return to school, Tykes & Teens, a leading provider of the highest quality, evidence-based mental health services and programs for children and adolescents for 25 years, is launching a free summer video series. “Mental Health Matters – Returning with Resilience” will premiere on Tykes & Teens Facebook channel @TykesTeens during July and August, and features 15-minute video segments with leading mental health experts, educators and students that will include conversations with practical tips, tools and resources to help parents and students navigate back into a routine and emerge from the pandemic with resilience. 
 
“As we emerge from the pandemic and students prepare to return to more in-person school and other activities following over a year of isolation, many are struggling with feelings of being overwhelmed, and feeling anxious and depressed,” says Tykes & Teens Director of Prevention Services Dorothy Oppenheiser. “Our goal is to provide prevention services that give students and parents tools and resources that allow them to navigate these challenging times and emerge with resilience.”
 
“Mental Health Matters – Returning with Resilience” Facebook Premiere Schedule 
 
Wed., July 14 at 1:00 pm – “Coming Out of the Woods” 
•Eric Garza, MHA, LCSW – Tykes & Teens CEO
•Jay Biscanin, M.A., CBHCMS – Tykes & Teens Manager of Targeted Case Management, Certified Wraparound Coach and Facilitator, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
•What can we expect as we emerge from the pandemic and return to in-person school and activities? There is hope! Children are resilient! Practical tips and resources to support your child coming out of the pandemic strong and in good mental health. Plus local resources available in our community to support you.
 
Wed., July 21 at 1:00 pm – “Feeling Anxious? You’re Not Alone” 
•Dr. Alethia DuPont, Psy. D. – Tykes & Teens Director of Outpatient Services
•A Teen Perspective
•Overwhelmed, stressed and worried about going back to in-person school and activities? How to best prepare, anxiety signs for parents and students to look for, and how to move forward with resiliency.
 
Wed., July 28 at 1:00 pm – “Depressed or Just Down?” 
•Tamie Gilarski, LCSW, RPT-S – Tykes & Teens School Based Program Coordinator, Psychotherapist, Play Therapist Supervisor and Clinical Supervisor
•How do you support a student who is experiencing depression? How do you know if you’re depressed or just down? How do you know when to reach out for professional help? Signs to look for and tools to create a resilient return.
 
Wed., August 4 at 1:00 pm – “Creating Routines for Stability” 
•Andrea Greenlee, LCSW – Tykes & Teens Director of School Based Services and Psychotherapist
•Monique Coleman, MS – Tykes & Teens Prevention Coordinator
•Hannah Greenlee – A "Changing Vibes, Changing Lives" Student Perspective
•How to develop routines that create stability and resiliency as you return to in-person school and activities. Tips to creating a path toward preparing to return to school.
 
Wed., August 11 at 1:00 pm – “Practical Steps for Students” 
•Dorothy Oppenheiser – Tykes & Teens Director of Prevention Services
•Monique Coleman, MS – Tykes & Teens Prevention Coordinator
•Anthony Ferro – Jensen Beach High School Teacher
•Following more than a year of crisis and uncertainty, we’ll provide practical steps from an educator’s perspective on how students can overcome the stress and anxiety of returning to in-person school.
 
Wed., August 18 at 1:00 pm – “Enhancing Young Children & Family Resilience” 
•Elizabeth Appleton – Tykes & Teens Director of Childcare Mental Health Consultation
•Tools for childcare staff and parents to support children ages 0 to 5 through day-to-day transitions and as start or return to school. Tykes & Teens is the sole provider of Infant Mental Health Services and Infant/Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation on the Treasure Coast.
 
To watch the new “Mental Health Matters – Returning with Resilience” series, visit Tykes & Teens on Facebook @TykesTeens. Have a question you would like answered during the series? Email mistys@tykesandteens.org. 
 
Tykes & Teens’ Prevention Services programming has provided more than 500 community events for adolescents and parents to prevent substance use, bullying, dating violence, suicide and other dangerous behaviors among youth, and also administers prevention and social emotional learning curriculum in schools. The agency’s prevention programming focuses on raising community awareness to remove the stigma and shame often associated with seeking mental health treatment; engaging youth in fun, safe and healthy activities; and providing free educational events for parents and youth. Tykes & Teens’ prevention programs include:
 
•r20.rs6.net/tn.jspYouth Service Learning
 
For more information on Tykes & Teens Prevention Services, visit www.tykesandteens.org/prevention-services, call 772-220-3439 or email gethelp@tykesandteens.org. 
 
The Children’s Services Council of Martin County and C.O.R.E. (Comprehensive Offender Rehabilitation and Education) provide funding for Tykes & Teens’ prevention programming and services.
 
To learn more about how you can support children’s mental health in our community, visit www.tykesandteens.org/give-help/. 
 
About Tykes & Teens
 
Tykes & Teens has been a leading mental health provider for children and adolescent evidence-based programs and services for 25 years. Our passion and commitment are to empowering children and strengthening families by ensuring that all children have access to high quality counseling and mental health services, regardless of financial status. Our mission is prioritizing children’s mental health in our families, schools and communities through a wide range of prevention, education, and treatment programs and services. We also advocate for increased awareness of mental health to remove the stigma and shame often associated with seeking mental health treatment. We provide affordable quality mental health services for children in need across the Treasure Coast from more than 50 service locations, including outpatient offices in Palm City, Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound, Port St. Lucie, and Vero Beach, on-site services in all Martin County schools, and in schools in Okeechobee and Indian River counties, as well as collaboration with numerous community partners, in addition to virtual telehealth services. We have continued to offer our services and programs throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, including virtual telehealth care. We accept most insurance, private payments, and we are a Medicaid-approved provider. We have successfully administered a sliding fee scale for those in need when necessary for more than 20 years. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit agency, we also provide $750,000 in unreimbursed services to the communities we serve each year. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.