Support Groups :: Education :: Clinics/Screenings :: Special Events :: Late News :: Plymouth Events
(Updated June 28, 2010)
Support Groups
((Abbreviations: CCHC, Cape Cod Healthcare; CCH, Cape Cod Hospital; FH, Falmouth Hospital; RHCI, Rehabilitation Hospital of the Cape and Islands; COA, Council On Aging; VNA, Visiting Nurse Association; CCCC, Cape Cod Community College)
CAPEWIDE
ADD-Adult Support, 508-760-3808
Adult ADD Treatment Groups, 508-790-1333
AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod, HIV Antibody Testing, 1-800-698-6247 (new oral swab/needle testing available); Needle Exchange Program Information, 508-430-7382 or 1-800-905-1170; both services free and anonymous. For more information, visit www.asgcc.org
Al-Anon/Alateen, for family & friends of alcoholics, 508-394-4555 for information on program and meeting schedules.
Alzheimer's Services of Cape Cod & the Islands, 712 Main Street, Hyannis, MA 02601, 508-775-5656 for information
Alzheimer's Caregivers Support Groups:
Barnstable Senior Center, 3rd Tuesday month, 508-862-44753; Buzzards Bay: Cape Cod Nursing & Rehab Center, 3rd Tuesday month, 6:30-8 p.m., 508-759-5752; Centerville: Cape Regency Rehab & Nursing Center (Radius) 3rd Friday, 3 p.m., 508-778-1835; Harbor Point at Centerville, 1st Thursday, 10 a.m., 508-778-2311 (part of educational series); Dennis: Dennis COA, 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 1:30 p.m., 508-385-8414, and Early Stage onset, 3rd Wednesday month, 1:30 p.m., 508-775-5656; Eagle Pond Rehab & Living Center, 2nd Wednesday, 3:30 p.m., 508-385-6034; Falmouth: Falmouth Jewish Congregation, 4th Thursday, 3:30 p.m., 508-778-5589 (open to all faiths); Harborside Healthcare, (call for schedule) 508-457-9000; JML Care Center, last Thursday, 10 a.m., 508-457-4621; Royal Nursing Center, 2nd Tuesday, 6 p.m., 508-548-3800; Harwich: Harwich COA, 3rd Thursday, 10 a.m., 508-430-7550; Mashpee: Christ the King Parish, 1st Tuesday, 1 p.m., 508-477-7700; New Seabury: The Brain Center, 1st Sunday, 508-477-5300 (call to confirm date & time); Orleans: Orleans COA, 4th Tuesday, 1:30 p.m., 508-255-6333; Sandwich: Cape Heritage Nursing & Rehab Center, 3rd Thursday, 3 p.m., 508-888-8222; Wareham: The Tremont, 2nd Tuesday, 2 p.m., 508-295-1040; Young-Onset Support Group, under 65, 508-775-5656.
General Caregiver Support Groups (including Alzheimer’s Caregivers):
Brewster: Angel Care Support Group, Brewster COA, 3rd Wednesday, 10:30 a.m., 508-896-2737; Eastham: Eastham COA, alternate Mondays, 10 a.m., 508-240-2327 (call to confirm date & time); Hyannis: Barnstable COA, 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 9:30-11 a.m., 508-862-4750 or 508-394-4630, extension 181; Provincetown: Provincetown COA, alternate Mondays, 2:30 p.m., 508-487-7080; Wellfleet: Wellfleet COA, alternate Tuesdays, 10 a.m., 508-349-4630, extension 151 to register.
Early Stage Support Groups (call 508-775-5656 to schedule required interview, individual listed numbers for schedules):
Bourne: Bourne Memorial Building/Senior Center, 508-759-0653; Hyannis: Alzheimer’s Services offices, 508-775-5656; Orleans: Orleans COA, 508-775-5656.
Youth Support Group, The Forget-Me-Nots, 508-888-8601
ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease), sponsored by Muscular Dystrophy Association, 3rd Wednesday month, 2-4 p.m., Heritage at Falmouth, 508-398-0376 or 508-563-2373
Aphasia Support Group, RHCI, Sandwich, first Wednesday month, 10-11:30 a.m., 508-833-4268
Aneurysm & Mild Brain Injury, third Saturday month, 2-4 p.m., RHCI Sandwich, 508-833-4241
Arthritis Support Groups, 3rd Thursday month, 1 p.m. Call Brewster COA, 508-896-2737; 2nd Friday month, 10-11:30 a.m., Carol Jacobson Senior Center, Mashpee, 508-539-1440. (Call 508-255-6333 if interested in joining similar group at Orleans COA.)
Arthritis & Total Joint Replacement Support Group, 3rd Wednesday month, 10 a.m., Falmouth Hospital, 508-457-4900 or www.drdimond.com for details
Asthma Support Group, 2nd Tuesday month, CCH, 7-10 p.m. Dr. Paul Sklarew, 508-771-6808 Bereavement Support for Adults, Hospice & Palliative Care of Cape Cod: Hyannis-Wednesdays, 4-5:30 p.m., Thursdays, 1-2:30 p.m.; Falmouth-Thursdays, noon-1:30 p.m.; registration required, 508-957-0200
Bereaved Parents Support Group, Mondays, 1-2:30 p.m., VNA office in Falmouth, 1-800-978-0838
Bereavement Support (for those widowed two years or less), sponsored by Widowed Persons Service of Cape Cod Inc., "Finding support After the Death of a Loved One," Chatham Ecumenical Health & Wellness Committee; 8 weekly sessions, 7 p.m., First Congregational Church, Chatham; for information & to register call Kathy Budreski, 508-945-0429; Three new 10-session bereavement support groups for parents, adolescents and adults facing the loss of a parent have been established by VNA of Cape Cod Hospice Program, call 1-800-978-0838 for details; “The Circle,” VNA Hospice support group for children 5-13 and the parent/adult, 508-957-7716
Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts, Southeastern Region: Brilliant Buzzards Support Group, 3rd Friday month, Buzzards Bay Community Center, 6-7:30 p.m., 508-759-2049. (New office in Jordan Professional Plaza, Cranberry Highway, East Wareham
Breastfeeding Support Group, Falmouth Hospital, every Tuesday, 10 a.m.-noon, Faxon 1, level B, siblings welcome, 508-457-3632 for information
Breastfeeding Support Group, 1st & 3rd Friday month, call WIC at 508-771-7896 or 1 (800) 942-2445
Breastfeeding Moms support group, Tuesdays 10 a.m.-noon, Center for Breastfeeding, 327 Quaker Meeting House Road, Sandwich, 1- 888-890-2229 or 508-888-7794 for information
Cancer support group: “Polly’s Place,” for caregivers, the newly diagnosed and survivors, First Lutheran Church, W. Barnstable, 1st & 3rd Thursdays month, 6 p.m., Karen R.,508-775-1412 for information
Cancer Talk Support and Survival Group for Women, Thursdays, 7-8:30 p.m., VNA, S. Dennis, 508-432-1452, 508-385-6302
Cape Cod AWAKE: Sleep Apnea Awareness Support Group, meetings at Yarmouth Senior Center, 508-760-1978 for more information
Cape Cod Post-Polio Association, meets monthly, for polio survivors and their families, 508-362-5547
Caregivers Support, call VNA, 508-240-1100 or 1 (800) 696-0303
Caregivers' Support Group, 2nd & 4th Friday month, 1 p.m., Orleans Methodist Church, call 508-896-9382
Caregivers of Older Adults, 7-8 30 p.m., JML Center, Falmouth, 508-457-4621 or 508-548-2669
Cape Resources for Accessing State Health Insurance (adults & children) CAPEWIDE-1 (877) CAPECOD (227-3263); Upper Cape-VNA of Cape Cod 508-457-6194 or 1 (800) 696-4047, ext. 194; Mid Cape-Community Action Committee of Cape Cod and Islands Inc., 508-771-1727 or 1 (800) 845-1999; Lower Cape-Healthy Connections, 508-255-1903
"Clown Around Town," free story telling for children in hospitals, 508-259-3006 or www.clownaroundtown.net
COPD Support Group, 2nd Wednesday month, 2-4 p.m., Orleans COA
Chronic Pain Support and exercise group (Moving On), Mondays, 10:30-noon, COA, Orleans, 508-255-6333, $5 per session
Dare to Be Alive Foundation Inc., dedicated to organ transplants (recipients, families, actual and potential donors), 3rd Tuesday month, 7-9 p.m., Cape Cod Hospital, 508-398-1260 or www.daretobealive.org
Cape Cod Healthcare Diabetes Support Group Meetings-Hyannis, 2nd Friday month, 2-3 p.m., 51 Bay View Street (September through July); Harwich-1st Tuesday month (September through June), 4:30-5:30 p.m., Harwich Community Center; Falmouth/ Mashpee-4th Monday month, 3-4 p.m., Mashpee Senior Center; 508-299-88194
Dads Talk, conversation group on parenting, fourth Tuesday month, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Mashpee Village Community Room, free, RSVP 508-477-3429
Epilepsy Support Group for Adults with Epilepsy, 2nd Monday month, 6-8 p.m., Cape Cod Hospital, Mugar Building, 1-888-576-9996 or support@efmri.org
Faith-Based Cancer Support Group (open to all faiths), St. Elizabeth Seton Church, N. Falmouth, 508-563-7770
Families of Adults Afflicted with Asperger's Syndrome, 1st Tuesday month, 7 p.m., First Lutheran Church, W. Barnstable, 508-775-1412, faaas@faaas.org or www.faaas.org
Food Addicts in Recovery/FA Thursdays, 7-8:30 p.m., Woods Hole Library, 508-540-4421; Saturdays, 8 30-10 a.m., FH Faxon Center, 508-457-5159; Sundays, RHCI, 9:30-11 a.m., 508-564-4414 or 508-778-0008
FOCUS, 3rd Wednesday month, 4:30-6 p.m., VNA, Rt. 134, S. Dennis, 508-394-2230 or 1-800-631-3900, ext. 274
Fibromyalgia Support Group, 4th Thursday month, 7-8:30 p.m., RHCI, 508-771-4141
Haven for Healing, Fridays, FH, 508-564-6133
HAND, Helping After Neonatal Death, support group for parents suffering a pregnancy loss, 508-420-0762
H.O.P.E. (Helping Other Parents Endure loss of baby), 2nd Wednesday month, 6:30-8:30 p.m., FH, 508-477-7305 or 508-457-4621
Huntington’s disease Cape Cod Family Support Group, 2nd Wednesday month, 6:30-8 p.m., Hospice & Palliative Care of Cape Cod, Hyannis, before attending first group or for more information call Susan Fencer-Cote, 508-957-0310, Ext. 246
Let's Face It, for people with facial disfigurement. Call VNA, 508-394-2230
Manic Depressive Support Group, 2nd, 3rd, 4th & 5th Monday, 7-9 p.m., CCH. Call 508-775-3817
Medicare Counseling by appointment, Orleans Senior Center, Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m. 508-255-6333
Mended Hearts, Inc., CCH, third Thursday month, 4-5:30 p.m.
Mild Brain Injury Support Group, 3rd Saturday month, 2-4 p.m., RHCI, 508-833-4241 (pre-screening required)
Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS), 1st Tuesday month, 508-362-9657 for details (Meetings are fragrance-free and held in conjunction with the Massachusetts Association for the Chemically Injured.)
Multiple Sclerosis Support Group, 3rd Sunday month, 1-3 p.m., RHCI, 508-945-2236
NAMI Cape Cod Support Groups (508-778-4277 for details, including Family-to-Family program): For friends and family of people with mental illness: first Wednesday month, Christ the King Parish Center, Mashpee, 7-9 p.m., 508-778-0650; first Thursday, First Congregation Church, Chatham, 7-9 p.m.; third Tuesday, Joan of Arc Church Parish Center, Orleans, 6-8 p.m., 508-349-2475; fourth Tuesday, Wellfleet Senior Center, 508-349-2475; For people with psychiatric disabilities: first & third Wednesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., 1100 Route 134, Dennis (Lewis Gordon Office Facility), 508-385-5078; Recovery Support Group, every Thursday, 5:30-7 p.m., NAMI Cape Cod Office, Hyannis, 508-778-4277
New Parents Group. Call VNA of Cape Cod, 508-394-2230
Nursing Mother's Support Group, sponsored by FH and Cape Cod WIC, alternate Fridays, 9:30-11 a.m., & alternate Mondays, 7:30-9 p.m., at Women's Health Resource Center, FH; pregnant women welcome; 508-771-7896 or 1 (800) 942-2445 for details
Nu-Voice Club of Cape Cod, 2nd Thursday month, 10:30 a.m., Yarmouth Senior Center, 508-771-6902
Ostomy Association of Cape Cod, 508-394-7385 or 508-255-7329
Overeaters Anonymous, 8 meetings on Cape Cod, 508-428-9848 for information
Parents in Touch, 2nd Friday month, 7 p.m., Life Services Rehabilitation Clinic, Rte. 134, S. Dennis. 508-420-0771 or 508-362-1302
Parents in Touch, 2nd Friday month, 7 p.m., Life Services Rehabilitation Clinic, Rte. 134, S. Dennis. 508-420-0771 or 508-362-1302
Parents of Children with Severe Emotional or Behavioral Difficulties, 7 p.m. Call 508-775-1999
Parents of Diabetic Children, 2nd Wednesday month, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Sandwich Library; call 508-477-8542 or 508-888-7054
Parents of Murdered Children (P.O.M.C.), for information, 508-540-0383 or 508-362-4014
Parkinson's support, 2nd Monday month (except holidays, then 3rd Monday), 1:30 p.m., 508-240-0276; Care Partners Group, 508-896-9382, Dennis Senior Center
Parkinson Support Network, contact Rose DiGregorio at 508-862-4753 for details
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Group, for information, 508-255-3468 or 508-896-7251
Pregnant and Parenting Young Women, 1st & 3rd Thursday month, 7-8 p.m. Call 508-771-1102
Prostate Cancer Support Group for Cape Cod, fourth Tuesday month, 9-11 a.m., (508-862-5302); CCH
REBUILDING: 10-week support group for those ending long-term relationships, 90-minute weekly evening sessions, small groups, $150, 508-771-2872
RESOLVE a support group for people experiencing infertility. 508-564-6684
Safe Place, for family and friends of suicides, sponsored by The Samaritans, 1st & 3rd Thursday month, 7:30-9:30 p.m., Falmouth Chamber of Commerce; 508-548-8900 or 1 (800) 893-9900
Step Up 4 Kids, for parents of children with behavioral or emotional disorders (including bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, etc.), last Wednesday month, 6:30 p.m., Stop & Shop Conference Room, Independence Park, Hyannis, space limited, parents & caregivers only, RSVP to 508-432-5880, bobatly@yahoo.com or maryannmcdonnell@yahoo.com (more information at www.stepup4kids.com)
Stop Smoking Program, free, CCH & RHCI, call 508-457-3627 for both sites
Straight Spouse Support Group, sponsored by PFLAG, Yarmouthport, 3rd Thursday month, 7 p.m., 958 Long Pond Road, Brewster, call 508-432-8119 or 508-896-9060
Stroke Peer Home Visitation Program, contact RHCI @ 508-833-4043
Stroke Support Group, sponsored by the VNA of Cape Cod, for stroke survivors and families, 3rd Thursday month, 1-2:30 p.m., Dennis Senior Center, 1-877-267-7700
Stroke Support Group, 2nd Monday month, 1:30-3:30 p.m., RHCI, 508-833-4008; Stroke Survivors Support Group, 2nd Wednesday month, RHCI, 508-833-4267
Support Group for Survivors of Sexual Assault or Abuse, Thursdays, 5-6:30 p.m., Provincetown, 508-487-6333 for information
TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m., CCH, 508-362-8856; Tuesdays, Dennis Memorial Library, 5-7 p.m., 508-385-3501
Tourette Support Group, meets monthly at CCH, call 508-420-1812 for day and time
Violence Prevention Network, 3rd Wednesday month, CCH, 9-11 a.m., 508-771-1800, ext. 2667
Widowed Person Service of Cape Cod, Inc., 508-430-2417
Widowed Person's Support Group, 3rd Wednesday month, Barnstable COA, 11 a.m.-noon
A Woman's Concern, Pregnancy Health Center, 48 Camp Street, Hyannis, 508-790-0584, Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; free pregnancy testing, ultrasound, referral network for medical care, housing, other social services.
UPPER CAPE
Al-Anon, Sundays, 9:45 a.m., FH
Alcoholics Anonymous, Saturdays, 8 p.m., FH; Saturdays 9:30-10:30 a.m., RHCI
Breast Cancer Support Group for newly diagnosed women, 2nd & 4th Monday month (except legal holidays), 12:30-2 p.m., Mashpee Health Center, 5 Industrial Drive; 1st & 3rd Tuesday month, 1-2:30 p.m., FH; 508-862-5302, 508-457-3730, or 508-457-3669 for information. Water Pals, free certified Aquatic & Floor Exercise Program for Women After Breast Cancer Surgery (sponsored by FH, YWCA of SE Mass & ATRIA-Woodbriar of Falmouth); 2 hours weekly at ATRIA-Woodbriar Assisted Living; for information & to register, 508-457-3669
Compassionate Friends, 3rd Wednesday month, 7:30 p.m., St. Peter's Episcopal Church, Buzzards Bay, 508-888-4977, 508-224-4202, 508-669-5217, 508-813-1386
Parent Information Network (for parents of children with mental/behavioral problems), Falmouth, 3rd Monday month, 6:15-8:15 p.m.; call Joanne Leonard, 508-947-8779, extension 25 for information
Falmouth Stroke Survivors, 2nd Tuesday month, 1:30-3 p.m., FH Board Room, 508-540-7641 or 508-540-8770 for information, open to survivors, family, friends, caregivers
Parenting With Cancer, 1st Friday month, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Mashpee Health Center Board Room, for information or registration call FH Oncology Services, 508-539-6210
Parenting Support Group for Mashpee families with children up to 5 years of age; Tuesdays, 10 a.m., Christ the King Parish, call 508-548-0411 for details
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Support Group, Falmouth, monthly, for information, call 508-457-0440
Parkinson's Support, 2nd Thursday month, Noon, JML Care Center, Falmouth. 508-457-5081
Postpartum Support Group, Tuesdays, 1-2:30 p.m., Women's Health Resource Center, FH, free, childcare provided. For information call 508-548-0411
PFLAG (Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians & Gays, Bisexuals and Transgendered), 2nd Monday month, 7 p.m., CIGSYA House, Hyannis, 508-255-5354 (serves Upper and Mid-Cape)
Stroke Support, 2nd Tuesday month, 1:30-3 p.m., FH. 508-540-7641 or 508-450-1531
Sight Loss Services Support Groups Falmouth, 2nd Wednesday month, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., John Wesley Methodist Church, Falmouth; Sandwich-Mashpee, 3rd Friday month, 10 a.m.-noon, Sandwich COA; Falmouth-Bourne #2, 3rd Friday month, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., John Wesley Methodist Church, Falmouth.
Cancer Support Groups
Breast Cancer Support Group, 1st & 3rd Tuesday month, 1-2:30 p.m., Women's Health Resource Center, FH, 508-548-0411, extension 0738
Falmouth Cancer Support Group, 2nd & 4th Wednesdays month, 1:30-3 p.m., FH, 508-548-3050
Lung Cancer Support Group, 1st Thursday month, 1-2:30 p.m., FH, 508-457-3730
MID/LOWER CAPE
Alcoholics Anonymous, Sundays, 6 p.m., CCH
Alcoholics Anonymous, Saturdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Call PASG, 508-487-9445
Cancer Support Group sponsored by Helping Our Women (HOW), Mondays, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Provincetown Senior Center, 508-487-4357
Caregiver Support and Companion Programs: Barnstable Senior Center, 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 9:30-11 a.m., Beth Gilmore of Elder Services at 508-394-4630, ext. 240 for details; Wellfleet Council on Aging, 1st & 3rd Tuesdays,, 9:30-11 a.m., 508-394-4630, ext 212 for details
Catholic Cancer support Group, second Tuesday month, 7 p.m., Our Lady of Victory Parish Center, Centerville, faith-based but all welcome, 508-771-1106 or 508-775-5744 for information
Compassionate Friends, 2nd Wednesday month, 7 p.m., Harwich Community Center, 508-237-7904, 508-398-8259
Helping Our Women (HOW) Women from Provincetown to Eastham with chronic and life threatening illness support group, Tuesdays, 12:30-2 p.m., St. Mary of the Harbor, Provincetown; Women with cancer, Mondays, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Provincetown Senior Center; Caregivers support group being formed; Call 508-487-4357 weekdays for information on dates, times and sites or visit office, 336 Commercial St, #9, Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Lyme Disease Support Group, 3rd Sunday month, Cape Cod Covenant Church, Brewster, 508-398-1144; 3rd Tuesday month, 7-9 p.m., Provincetown COA
NAMI of Cape Cod, first Thursday month, 7-9 p.m., First Congregational Church, Chatham
National Osteoporosis Foundation Lower Cape Support Group, 4th Wednesday month, noon to 1 p.m., First United Methodist Church, Chatham, for information and to register, 508-945-7551, extension 243
Neuropathy Support Group, fourth Wednesday month, 2-4 p.m., Orleans Senior Center, January-May; 508-255-7679 for information
New Parents Support Group for first-time parents from Dennis, Yarmouth, Brewster & Harwich with infants less than eight months old; free, pre-registration required, 5-week program, call 1 (800) 631-3900, extension 6053 for new dates; babies are welcome; VNA of Cape Cod, 434 Route 134, South Dennis
P.A.S.G. Drop-In Bereavement Group, Wednesdays, 5-6:30 p.m. Call PASG office, 508-487-9445
Parent Information Network (for parents of children with mental/behavioral problems), Hyannis, 2nd Tuesday month, 6-8 p.m.; Brewster, 4th Tuesday month, 6-8 p.m.; call Joanne Leonard, 508-947-8779, extension 25 for information on both groups
PFLAG (Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians & Gays, Bisexuals and Transgendered), 3rd Monday month-year round, 7 p.m., First Parish U.U. Church, Brewster, 508-432-8119
Caring & Sharing
Postpartum Depression Support Group, Wednesdays, 5-6:30 p.m., The Cape Cod Children's Place, 508-240-3310
Cancer Support Groups
Lower Cape Cancer Support Group, 1st & 3rd Monday month, 2-4 p.m., Wellfleet Senior Center, 508-349-2800 or 508-349-2437 (Free Reiki Clinic for women with cancer Thursdays, 1:30-4:30 p.m.); Harbor for Healing, Broad Reach Healthcare Campus, Route 28, N. Chatham, 508-432-8102 for appointment); Polly's Place Cancer Support, 1st and 3rd Thursdays month, 6 p.m., First Lutheran Church, W. Barnstable, 508-775-1412
Cancer Talk Support and Survival Group for Women, Thursdays, 7-8:30 p.m., VNA, S. Dennis, 508-432-1452, 508-385-6302
Sight Loss Services Support Groups
Barnstable, 2nd Tuesday month, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Unitarian Church of Barnstable; Brewster, 2nd Wednesday month, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Brewster Ladies' Library; Eastham, 2nd Friday month, 10 a.m.-noon, Eastham COA; Dennis-Yarmouth #2, 3rd Tuesday month, 1-3 p.m., Swan Pond Village, S. Yarmouth; Orleans, 3rd Wednesday month, 10 a.m.-noon, Rock Harbor Village; Wellfleet/Truro/Provincetown, 4th Monday month, 10 a.m.-noon, Wellfleet COA; Chatham-Harwich, 4th Tuesday month, 10 a.m.-noon, Chatham Housing; Dennis-Yarmouth #1, 4th Wednesday month, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Carleton Hall, Dennis
Wellfleet Senior Center Wednesday Club, 1-4 p.m., adult supportive day care, congregate lunch available noon-1 p.m., 508-349-2800 or 508-349-0313 for information (also available: Acupuncture treatment, Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10:15-11:15 a.m.; Fleet Feet Walking Group, Mondays & Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m., $25 for 10 weeks, non-residents accepted; Caregivers Support Group, 1st & 3rd Tuesday month, 10-11:30 a.m., 508-394-4630 for information and to register; Cancer Support Group, 1st and 3rd Monday month, 2-4 p.m.; NAMI Support Group, 4th Tuesday month, 6-8 p.m.; Sight Loss Support Group, 4th Monday month,.10 a.m.-noon)
Education
(Abbreviations: CCHC, Cape Cod Healthcare; CCH, Cape Cod Hospital; FH, Falmouth Hospital; RHCI, Rehabilitation Hospital of the Cape and Islands; COA, Council On Aging; VNA, Visiting Nurse Association; CCCC, Cape Cod Community College)
CAPEWIDE
Adaptive Sports & Recreation: Includes golf, curling, horseback riding, kayaking, fishing; various locations; 508-566-3298 or cmbautz@capeabileadventures.org for information on times, dates, locations & fees
“Battered Women and Addiction," five-week online course for professionals in the field, for information call 508-752-7313
Birth Defects/Genetic Counseling CCH, 508-771-1800, ext. 2253, appointments required
Better Communication Classes, Tips for the hearing impaired, Fridays, 1 p.m., RHCI, Sandwich, free, pre-registration required, 508-833-4140
Cape Cod Center for Whole Health (Mashpee), Usui Reiki Clinic, 3rd Tuesday month, 10 a.m.-noon; Exploring Meditation, 2nd Tuesday month, 10-11 a.m.; $5 donation requested, 508-539-2885 or cccwh@capecod.net for details
Diabetes Education/Support Dennis Senior Center, 1st Wednesday month, 10-11 a.m., 508-385-5067; Yarmouth Town Hall, 2nd Wednesday month, 10:30 a.m.-noon, 1 (800) 631-3900, extension 6022
Diabetes Exercise Program, RHCI, Sandwich, for those diagnosed with type 2 diabetes; three days a week, mornings or afternoons, $120 per six-week series, 1-508-833-4065 for information or to register
Elder Services Cape Cod & Islands, programs for caregivers, for general information, 508-394-4630, extension 181, or 1-800-244-4630; Brewster COA, 508-896-2737; Cape Organization for Rights of the Disabled (CORD), 508-775-8300; Friends of the Barnstable COA, 508-862-4750; Hospice & Palliative Care of Cape Cod, 508-862-4750; Chatham & Orleans Councils on Aging, 508-255-6333; Overlook Home Health Inc., 508-548-7200; Yarmouth COA, 508-394-7606; Barnstable County Department of Human Services, 508-375-6628; Wellfleet COA, 508-349-2800
“Family-to-Family, 12-week program for family caregivers sponsored by NAMI Cape Cod, free, 508-778-4277 or 508-778-0650 for information or to register in next session
GROUP AQUATIC EXERCISE PROGRAM: YMCA Cape Cod. West Barnstable, 8-week session, developed for former rehabilitation patients, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7:30-8:30 a.m., conducted by RHCI therapists, for information or to register: 508-362-6500 or www.ymcacappecod.org
KICK BUTTS: Monthly classes, call CCHC, 1-877-729-7200, for all sites
La Leche League for breastfeeding mothers and expectant mothers, for Upper Cape meetings, call Deb (508-375-0119) or Robin (508-539-3088); or 1-800-LA LECHE; for information elsewhere on Cape, call Carolyn at 508-255-8521, Gabrielle at 508-349-3988, Sara at 508-896-5611 or Cole in season at 508-487-6979
LifeCare Conversations for Family Caregivers Workshops, sponsored by The Center For Life Care, Planning and Support, Hospice & Palliative Care of Cape Cod, 508-957-0230 or lifecare@hospicecapecod.org for information
American Cancer Society "Look Good...Feel Better" Program, free, 1-800-ACS-2345 for details on sites and dates and to pre-register
Massage therapy, RHCI Sandwich (508-833-410) and Orleans (508-240-7203), fee varies with length of time of session
Nutrition Free nutritious food for qualified pregnant and post partum women, infants and children under WIC program; eight sites on Cape Cod & Islands; 1 (800) 942-2445 during regular office hours
Osteoporosis prevention & exercise class, Hyannis COA, Mondays and Wednesdays, 10 30-11:30 a.m.
Parent Education Program, free, Hyannis & Falmouth, call MSPCC 1 (800) 272-9722
Pulmonary Rehab, Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., CCH, must refer through hospital, 508-771-1800, ext. 2223
Parkinson’s Disease Wellness, six-week exercise program, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12:30-2 p.m. or 1-2:30 p.m., RHCI-Sandwich, Harwich, Wareham, $199, physician’s approval required, 508-833-4197 to register or for information
RED CROSS Courses available on First Aid Basics with Adult CPR ($50); Community CPR ($50), Community First Aid and Safety ($65), Pet First Aid ($35), CPR for the Professional ($80), CPR Review and Challenge ($35 for Community CPR/$40 for CPR/FPR), Babysitter's Training Course ($40), call for dates; Instructor courses in CPR, First Aid, AED's and Babysitting available monthly, call for details; Call Cape Cod Chapter in Hyannis, 508-775-1540 for information on all courses. Visit www.capecodredcross.org
RHCI Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program, Cape Cod Apartments, Falmouth, Tuesdays and Thursdays 9-10 a.m. and Sandwich 3-4 p.m.; $35 for 8 classes, trial class free, pre-registration required, 508-743-0465
RHCI has created a 4-week structured exercise and education program to help persons with type 2 diabetes more effectively manage their disease. Classes are offered
Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 12:30-1:45 p.m. A free screening (basic
health and fitness assessment) must be performed by RHCI staff prior to
admission, and a physician's approval is required. The cost of this self-pay
program is $120 month, 508-833-4065 for information or to enroll
“Self-Help for Your Health,” hypnosis and EFT, free introductory classes, fee courses on pain control and smoking cessation, 508-240-0024
Stroke Education/Support Group, last Monday month, 6:30-7:30 p.m., free, Dennis Senior Center, 508-385-5067
Supermarket Shopping Tours, registered dietician instructs consumers on how to shop smart, nutritionally, sponsored by CCH Center for Health Education, small fee, 1-877-729-7200
Cape Cod WIC Family Tobacco Education Program, free quit smoking classes, 508-775-2727 to register
VNA of Cape Cod Hospice Volunteer Training, 508-957-7709
"Water Pals," Aquatic Program for Women Recovering from Breast Cancer Surgery, conducted by CCHC Rehabilitation Services, Gold's Gym, Radisson Hotel, Hyannis, 12-week series recommended, $5 per session, 508-771-9600, extension 225, for information or enrollment
Water Wellness Aquatics Program, Broad Reach Outpatient Rehabilitation Clinic, N. Chatham, 8-week sessions; call Maria McGrady for information, 508-945-3668
Weight Reduction Series, Mayflower Place Fitness Center, West Yarmouth, $30 for six-part series or $6 per session; 508-790-0200, extension 159, or 1 (800) 245-8389 for information
Women's Wellness Series, Chatham Health Improvement Center, Chatham; monthly series on different issues; 508-945-3555
Young at Heart, Weight Training for Seniors, meets three times a week throughout the Cape; 10-week sessions, minimal fee, doctor's approval required, for information and locations call VNA of Cape Cod, 1-877-267-7700
"Reach the Children" free workshops, 6:30-8:30 p.m., sponsored by Mashpee Community Partnership Program, Special Needs Parents Advisory Council, Young Children First Falmouth Community Partnership Program; for information call Cape Cod Human Services, 508-790-3326
"WOW! Way of Wellness," with Dr. Kevin Lowey, D.C., check your local access cable station for schedule
MID/LOWER CAPE
Alcohol & drug abuse counseling for seniors, Grace Gouveia Building, Provincetown, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday (detox hospitalization, 508-487-7080 for appointment); Mental Health Counseling, 508-487-7080 for appointment, Monday, Thursday, Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Home Assessment for Nursing and Home Health, 508-487-7080 for appointment, Monday, Thursday, Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Provincetown Ask A Nurse, Mondays, 9-10 a.m., Grace Gouveia Building, 508-487-7083 for information or private appointment
Anti-Aging & Health Improvement Series, Orleans COA, Carol Penfield, RN, MS, MPc, presented by Nauset Community Education, 508-255-6333 for information
Baby Massage Class for Mother and Child, Thursdays or Saturdays, 12:30-2:30 p.m., Women's Body Shoppe; 508-771-1600 or 508-362-3543 to register
Barnstable Senior Center Exercise Programs: varied programs, some free, others $20-$40, early evenings, must RSVP, 508-862-4750
Better Breathing Program, new 8-week courses offered by RHCI at the RHCI-Orleans Outpatient Rehabilitation Center, 21 Old Colony Way, 508-240-7203; referral required, fee covered by Medicare and most insurance
Brooks Free Library in Harwich Expanding Horizons Wednesday Lecture series, 1-2:30 p.m., health care programs, 508-430-7562 for details
Childbirth Preparation Classes, 7-8:30 p.m., Mondays, 6-week sessions, Cape Cod Children's Place, N. Eastham, call for dates and registration 1 (800) 871-9535, free (sponsored by the March of Dimes)
Children's Pre-Surgery Tour, CCH, 2nd & 4th Wednesday month, 3:30-4 30 p.m. for child and family. 508-862-7603
Exercise class Cape Heritage Rehabilitation & Nursing Center, Sandwich, Tuesdays & Thursdays, noon-2 p.m., $20 per month, 508-747-9365
Family Birthplace at CCH, 2009 Schedule, 508-862-5123 to sign up:
Early Bird Prenatal Workshop, 4th Friday month, 7 p.m., $5 per couple,
Birth & Beyond; a family experience, monthly, 6:30 p.m., 5 classes, CCH, $25 per couple, (Mondays, Tuesdays or Wednesdays)
Labor Express, one-time prenatal class, offered quarterly on a Saturday, $25 per couple,
Breathing & Relaxation, monthly, $10 per couple
VBAC Class (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean), 4th Wednesday every other month, 7:30 p.m., $5 per couple
Infant-Child CPR, 4th Monday month, 6 p.m., $15 per person, must register at least one month in advance
Our New Baby, 4th Wednesday month, $3 per child (space limited, early registration suggested)
Mothers Support Group, Fridays, 10 a.m.-noon, free
Portuguese Prenatal, 4th Wednesday every other month, 7:30 .p.m.
Fatherhood Initiative Pizza Party, every other month
Infant/Child CPR Certification classes twice yearly (October & May), call for dates and registration, Cape Cod Children's Place, N. Eastham, 1 (800) 871-9535
Sojourner's Bereavement Support Group, eight weekly sessions, St. Christopher's Episcopal Church, Chatham, 1-2:30 p.m.; $10 fee requested; pre-registration requested; for dates, call 508-432-9147 or 508-945-4611
Young at Heart Weight Training, 8-week program, Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9-10 a.m., physician's written approval required; Provincetown COA; call Maryanne at 508-487-7080 to register. (Co-sponsors CCHC & VNA of Cape Cod). Free to Provincetown residents, Outer Cape seniors welcome for $2 donation.
UPPER CAPE
FH Childbirth Education Classes (to register for any of these courses, 508-457-3632; scholarships available)
FH-Joslin Clinic offering 10-week exercise program for people with diabetes, two mornings per week, for information or to register call 508-457-3525
Preparation For Birth 6-week sessions, $60, 7-9:30 p.m.; call for dates
Infant & Pediatric CPR-two sessions, $25 per person, call for dates
Sibling class, call for dates, 4-5 p.m., one class, free
Breast feeding, 7-9:30 p.m., one class, free, call for dates
Birth refresher classes, call for dates, 7-9:30 p.m., one class, $10
Cape Heritage Rehabilitation & Nursing Center Breakfast Club, 9-10 a.m., free, Route 6A, Sandwich; Call 508-888-8222 for schedule and to register
Optional classes (offered as needed) preconception, adoption, smoking cessation for pregnant women, Cesarean birth (call for private session), private birth classes (available days, evenings & weekends as needed, $25 per hour)
Clinics/Screenings
(Abbreviations: CCHC, Cape Cod Healthcare; CCH, Cape Cod Hospital; FH, Falmouth Hospital; RHCI, Rehabilitation Hospital of the Cape and Islands; COA, Council On Aging; VNA, Visiting Nurse Association; CCCC, Cape Cod Community College)
CAPEWIDE
COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER OF CAPE COD, Mashpee, a non-profit Federally Qualified Health Center that provides access to health care for adults and children with MassHealth, Commonwealth Care, Medicare, private insurance, or no insurance at all. Services include primary and preventive care, dental care, behavioral health, coordinated case management, and prescription assistance, at locations in Falmouth, Mashpee and Bourn, www.chcofcapecod.org or 508-477-7090.
FAMILY CONTINUITY PROGRAM, serving the mental health needs of Cape families, www.familycontinuity.org or 1-866-219-3320 for information
FREE ACUPUNCTURE DAY, Community Acupuncture on Cape Cod, West Dennis, 1st Tuesday month, 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., 508-398-7770
FREE, ANONYMOUS HIV, hepatitis B & C and syphilis testing/counseling from Falmouth to Provincetown offered by AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod and Infectious diseases Clinical Services, free Hep A &B vaccines, 508-274-5428 or 866-990-2437 for details
Life Line Screenings Three tests for cardiovascular risk, plus bone density; $35-$40 per test, discounts for three or more, registration 24 hours in advance required, 1 (800) 407-4557
Ostomy Clinics, 2nd and 4th Wednesday month, 8 a.m.-noon, VNA of Cape Cod, Dennis, free, doctor’s approval required, 508-957-7476 for appointment
VNA CLINICS AND SUPPORT GROUPS
(listed by town)
(NOTE: These activities generally follow a similar pattern, such as “1st & 3rd Wednesday of the month.” Just call ahead to verify dates, times and location.)
NOTE: Free Ostomy Clinics 2d & 4th Wednesday month, VNA office in South Dennis, call VNA intake department at 508-957-7476 for appointment, prior approval from doctor required.
BOURNE: Child and Adolescent Immunization and Lead Screening Clinic, Falmouth VNA Office, town residents only, appointments required, 508-957-7423, bring immunization record; Blood Pressure Clinics, Wednesdays, 9:30-11 a.m., Bourne Senior Center, 508- 759- 0654
BREWSTER: Child and Adolescent Immunization and Lead Screening Clinic, town residents only, appointments required, S. Dennis VNA office, 508-759-7423, bring immunization record; Health Counseling/Blood Pressure Check, (with blood sugar screening), Brewster Council on Aging, 508- 896-2737
CHATHAM: Child and Adolescent Immunization and Lead Screening Clinic, VNA S. Dennis Office, town residents only, appointments required, 508-957-7423, bring immunization record; Blood Pressure Clinics: Wednesdays, 9-11 a.m. Chatham Council on Aging, 508- 945-5190
DENNIS: Child and Adolescent Immunization and Lead Screening Clinic, VNA S. Dennis Office, town residents only, appointments required, 508-957-7423, bring immunization record; TB Clinics, VNA S. Dennis Office, $20, appointments required 508-957-7423; Adult Immunization Clinic, VNA S. Dennis Office, appointment required, 508-957-7423; Cholesterol Screening, Dennis Council on Aging, appointment required, 508-385-5067, $7.50 fee; Health Counseling and Blood Pressure Check, Dennis Council on Aging, 508-385-5067; Blood Glucose Screening Clinic, Dennis Council on Aging, 508-385-5067; Dennis Stroke Support Group, Dennis Council on Aging, 508-385-5067;
EASTHAM: Child and Adolescent Immunization and Lead Screening Clinic, VNA S. Dennis Office, town residents only, appointments required, 508-957-7423, bring immunization record
FALMOUTH: Child and Adolescent Immunization and Lead Screening Clinic, VNA Falmouth Office, town residents only, appointments required, 508-957-7423, bring immunization record; Adult Immunization Clinic, VNA Falmouth Office, appointment required, 508-957-7423; TB Clinics, $20, Falmouth VNA Office, 508-957-7423 for appointment; Blood Pressure Clinics, Thursdays 1:30-3 p.m., Falmouth Senior Center, 508-540-0196; Blood Glucose Screening, Falmouth Senior Center, 508-540-0196; Blood Pressure Clinic, Harborview Apartments, 508-957-7423 for appointment; Bone Density (Osteoporosis) Screening, Falmouth Senior Center, appointment required, 508-540-0196; Breast Cancer Support Groups, Women’s Health Resource Center, Faxon Wing, Falmouth Hospital, 508- 457-3669
HARWICH: Child and Adolescent Immunization and Lead Screening Clinic, VNA S. Dennis Office, town residents only, appointments required, 508-957-7423, bring immunization record
MASHPEE: Blood Pressure Clinic, Mashpee Senior Center, 508-539-1440; Child and Adolescent Immunization and Lead Screening Clinic, VNA Falmouth Office, town residents only, appointments required, 508-957-7423, bring immunization record
ORLEANS: Child and Adolescent Immunization and Lead Screening Clinic, VNA S. Dennis Office, town residents only, appointments required, 508-957-7423, bring immunization record; Blood Pressure Clinics, Tonset Woods, Town Hall, Rock Harbor Village, Orleans COA, 508- 255-6333
PROVINCETOWN: Child and Adolescent Immunization and Lead Screening Clinic, VNA S. Dennis Office, town residents only, appointments required, 508-957-7423, bring immunization record; Blood Pressure Clinics, (with Blood Sugar Screening) Provincetown Office of Public Health, 508- 487-7083
TRURO: Child and Adolescent Immunization and Lead Screening Clinic, VNA S. Dennis Office, town residents only, appointments required, 508-957-7423, bring immunization record
WAREHAM: Blood Pressure and Health Counseling, Thursdays, 9-10 a.m.
Wareham Senior Center, 508-291-3130
YARMOUTH: Child and Adolescent Immunization and Lead Screening Clinic, VNA S. Dennis Office, town residents only, appointments required, 508-957-7423, bring immunization record; Health Counseling, Blood Pressure, and Blood Sugar Screenings, Yarmouth Town Hall, 508- 398-2231
UPPER CAPE
Cape Cod Free Clinic in Falmouth, free health care for uninsured adults, 508-540-7075 for appointment information
Fit To Be Kids Weight Management, Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5 p.m., ages 6-14, RHCI-Sandwich, 8-week program, $240, 508-833-4197
Free Hearing Screenings, 2nd Wednesday month, by appointment, RHCI-Sandwich, 508-833-4141
Glucose screening, 3rd Wednesday month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., CVS Pharmacy, Falmouth Mall; last Thursday month, 8:30-10:30 a.m., Falmouth Senior Center, 1 (800) 631-3900, extension 6022; 3rd Tuesday month, Wareham VNA, 508-760-6514
Reiki Free Clinic, 3rd Sunday month, 3-5 p.m., FCTV-Maser Gallery, Falmouth, 508-524-5040, falmouthreiki@yahoo.com
RHCI for Children Pediatric Orthopedic Clinic, last Friday month with Dr. Seymour Zimbler of the Medical Staff at Children’s Hospital Boston, 617-355-2411 for information or appointment
SANDWICH NURSING DEPARTMENT PROGRAMS (270 Quaker Meetinghouse Road, 508-833-8020 for all program information/appointments; Blood Pressure Clinics-1st Thursday month: Sandwich Public Health Nursing Department, Human Services Building, Quaker Meeting House Road, 11 a.m.-noon, walk-ins, Sandwich residents; Shawme Heights One, 5 Leveridge Lane, 9:30-10:30 a.m.; Sandwich Housing Authority, Hansen Village, 11-11:30 a.m. Adult Immunization Clinics-1st Tuesday month, 8:30-9:30 a.m., appointments required, Sandwich residents. Well Women’s Clinics-508-833-8020 for information and appointment
MID/LOWER CAPE
Diabetes Associates, 1st Monday month, CCH, 7 p.m.; also Thursdays 10 a.m-3 p.m.; must refer through hospital, 508-771-1800, ext. 2559
Diabetic screenings Brewster, 3rd Tuesday 8-10 a.m., Brewster COA, 1673 Main St. Call VNA of Cape Cod at 1 (800) 631-3900, extension 6022; Provincetown, 2nd Tuesday month, 8:30-9:30 a.m., Grace Gouveia Building, free to residents, walk-ins welcome, 508-487-7083; Yarmouth, 1st and 3rd Wednesday month, 11 a.m.-noon, Yarmouth Town Hall, 1 (800) 631-3900, extension 6022; Dennis, 4th Wednesday month, 9-10:30 a.m., Dennis COA, (fasting blood sugar test...do not eat morning of test), signup not required, 508-385-5067
Endocrinology Clinic, CCH, appointments required, 508-771-1800, ext. 2253
Family Planning Hyannis--Free pregnancy testing Tuesdays 1-6 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; family planning clinics daily, call 508-771-8010 for information & appointment
Hearing Clinic, 3rd Thursday month, Barnstable COA
Hepatitis A Immunizations, Monday-Thursday-Friday, 9-11 a.m., Grace Gouveia Building, Provincetown, available at cost, call 508-487-7083 for appointment
OUTER CAPE HEALTH SERVICES: Provincetown: Monday-Wednesday, Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thursday, 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-noon; 508-487-9395; Wellfleet: Same hours, but closed on Saturday, 508-349-3131; Call for an appointment, but same-day appointments may be available.
Pediatric Neurology Clinic, CCH, appointments required, 508-771-1800, ext. 2253
Overlook VNA Blood Pressure Clinics, Locust Street Apartments, Falmouth, 2d Wednesday month 10-11 a.m.; 54 Sea St. Ext., Hyannis, 2d Wednesday month, 11 a.m.-noon
Safe Driving Screenings, RHCI-Orleans Outpatient Rehabilitation Center, free, 508-240-7203 for details
Orleans COA offers programs on general fitness, People with Arthritis Can Exercise (PACE), chronic pain, stress management and Alzheimer's Caregivers support; call 508-255-6333 for information
Reiki Clinic, 3rd Thursday month. Osterville Fitness Center, 7:15 p.m., free, 508-428-1654
Pre-School Immunization Clinics (most include lead screening)
Chatham, 2nd Tuesday month, 1-2 p.m., 1250 Main St., 1 (800) 631-3900, extension 6053
Eastham, Wellfleet & Truro 3rd Thursday month, 1-3 p.m., Eastham Commons, 1 (800) 631-3900, extension 6053 for appointment
Harwich, 2nd Tuesday month, 1-3 p.m., Harwich Town Hall, for appointment call Sheila Griffin at 508-240-1100 or 1 (800) 696-0303
Orleans, 2nd Tuesday month, 3-4 p.m., Orleans Elementary School, includes lead screening, for information call Meredith Hamilton, 508-945-2869 or 1 (800) 987-9784
Provincetown, Public Health Office, 4th Thursday month, 1-3 p.m., 508-487-6110 for appointment
Harwich, 2nd Tuesday month, 1-3 p.m., Harwich Town Hall, call VNA at 1 (800) 696-3900, extension 6053 for appointment
Dennis, Yarmouth, Brewster, 2nd Tuesday month, 9-noon, VNA of Cape Cod, 434 Route 134, S. Dennis, appointment required, 1 (800) 631-3900, extension, 6053
RHCI Aquatic Physical Therapy at Mayflower Place Retirement Community, West Yarmouth, twice-weekly (in addition to main hospital in Sandwich), 508-771-1300 for information or appointment
Special Events
(Abbreviations: CCHC, Cape Cod Healthcare; CCH, Cape Cod Hospital; FH, Falmouth Hospital; RHCI, Rehabilitation Hospital of the Cape and Islands; COA, Council On Aging; VNA, Visiting Nurse Association; CCCC, Cape Cod Community College)
SAMARITANS GOLF (and bocce) TOURNAMENT, June 28, Pocasset Golf Club, 508-495-7999
CAPE COD CENTER FOR WOMEN GOLF TOURNAMENT, June 28, New Seabury Ocean Course, register by June 14, 508-495-2855 or sandeeParkinson@yahoo.com
REIKI PRESENTATION, July 1, Barnstable Senior Center, 2 p.m., free, open to public, RSVP required, 508-862-4750
MANAGING MEDICATION SAFELY AT HOME, July 15, Barnstable Senior Center, 10:30 a.m., free, open to public, RSVP required, 508-862-4750
PROTECT OUR WATER: July 15, Barnstable Senior Center, 1-2 p.m., free, open to public, RSVP required, 508-862-4750
COMMUNITY RESPONSE TO BULLYING LEGISLATION WORKSHOP, August 5, YMCA Cape Cod, W. Barnstable Campus, Route 132, 7:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., $25 (includes morning coffee, lunch, workshop materials), pre-registration required, 508-790-3040 or afoley@capecodfoundation.org
RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVES: Call 1 (800) GIVELIFE (448-3543) to schedule an appointment
Late News
Sun Safety Campaign Launched
Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment is conducting a summer “2010 Safe Sun Education Program” on the beaches of Cape Cod. This initiative is being delivered in conjunction with the Cape Cod Medical Reserve Corps, Cape Cod Healthcare and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
The educational effort will be targeted to adolescents age 13-18 in hopes that educating teenagers about sun-exposure risk and behaviors regarding sun protection will have lifelong benefits in preventing skin cancer, cataracts, and other health problems.
The initiative will deliver five educational messages:
• Understand health risks associated with sun exposure;
• Take sun protective measures: wear sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and cover-up;
• Avoid sun exposure during mid-day hours;
• Understand the UV index;
• Discourage teen use of tanning facilities;
• Emphasize increased rates of skin cancers, including melanoma, in young adults due to the use of tanning beds.
In addition, a pre- and post- education surveys will assess the effectiveness of the program. Participating teenagers will receive individual packets of sunscreen, SPF 30 lip balm, beach balls and tee-shirts with sun safety messages.
For additional information, contact Susan Rask at 508-375-6625 or Jean Roma at 508-375-6641. The Cape Cod Medical Reserve Corps website, www.ccmedicalreservecorps.org, contains locations and dates of the sun safety program.
Cancer Center Construction Begins
Construction has begun on the Clark Cancer Center on the Falmouth Hospital campus. The multi-phase plan features a two-floor 13,000-square-foot structure to be located in the Medical Office Building next to the main entrance of the hospital.
The first phase of the project will feature development of the 8,000-square-foot Radiation Therapy Program to bring radiation oncology services to the Upper Cape community.
Parking and travel restrictions will apply during the construction.
The Radiation Therapy Program at the Clark Cancer Center is scheduled to open in early 2011.
Parkinson Support Classes
The Parkinson Support Network of Cape Cod has announced a series of classes in dance, drumming and choral singing during August and September for people affected by Parkinson Disease. The series is supported by a Cape Cod Healthcare Community Benefits Impact Grant and has been organized by the Parkinson Support Network of Cape Cod, a consortium of healthcare agencies, PD support organizations and community centers:
• Drumming with Tara Murphy August 3, 10, 17, 14, 21 and September 7, 14, 21, 11 a.m.-noon, $20/8 sessions at Barnstable Senior Center in Hyannis, first class free;
• Dance with Jane McDonald and Dottie DeLutis Beaton, August 30 and September 13, 20, 27, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., $20/4 sessions at the Barnstable Senior Center, Hyannis;
• Choral Singing with John Murelle, August 11, 18, 25 and September 1, 8, 15, 1-2:20 p.m., $20 /6 sessions at the Cape Cod Conservatory, West Barnstable.
For more information or to register call 800-651-8466.
State’s ‘Official Scorer’ Rules
Cape Regency A Hit On No Errors
Each state is responsible for inspecting nursing homes every nine to 15 months for license renewal. These inspections are unannounced and include a review of over 150 regulations. According to latest statistics, only 24 percent of the 429 skilled nursing facilities surveyed in Massachusetts achieved a deficiency free annual survey.
Cape Regency, a Radius Healthcare Center, located in Centerville, has announced that is among that small percentage, earning deficiency-free status following its annual Department of Public Health Survey in May.
“This is truly an incredible achievement for the staff at Cape Regency, they have made all of us at Radius extremely proud,” said Tom Lavallee, Vice President of Operations for Radius, the company which owns and manages Cape Regency (which includes Brookside Assisted Living at Regency) and its sister facility, Cape Heritage in Sandwich.
Cape Regency and Brookside provide services that include short-term rehabilitation, dementia care, end of life care, traditional assisted living and memory supported assisted living.
Results from state inspections are public information and each nursing home is required to post its most recent state inspection results. The inspections assess compliance with standards of patient care such as staffing, quality of care and cleanliness.
TYGH Contributors Receive
Major Promotions At CCCC
Two administrators with strong healthcare and academic backgrounds have received major promotions at Cape Cod Community College. Dean Susan Miller has been named Interim Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs. And Rosemary Dillon succeeds her as Dean of Health Sciences, Social Sciences, and Human Services. Ms. Dillon, MSN, had been Interim Dean, Academic and Student Affairs, Division of Health Sciences, Social Science and Human Services, and before that served as Director, Allied Health and Gerontology at the college.
Ms. Miller is a long-time member of the college community, first joining it as an Associate Professor of Nursing and then advancing through a series of academic and administrative positions.
Both administrators have been frequent contributors to discussions of the Advisory Board of To Your Good Health, A Health Care Newsletter. The appointments were announced by Dr. Kathleen Schatzberg, CCCC president and a member of the TYGH Advisory Board.
RHCI To Adopt Spaulding Name
Rehabilitation Hospital of the Cape and Islands (RHCI) will change its name to “Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital–Cape Cod” in October, RHCI officials have announced.
"This move reflects the long-standing relationship between two highly regarded rehabilitation hospitals and is in effect a return to RHCI’s roots," aid RHCI President and Chief Executive Officer Carol Sim explained.
Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital (SRH) developed RHCI and managed the Cape’s only rehabilitation hospital for its first six years. In 2001, RHCI became a sister institution as a member of the Spaulding Rehabilitation Network. The Network includes two rehabilitation hospitals, two long-term care hospitals and 23 outpatient centers in Eastern Massachusetts, all of which will be assuming the Spaulding name.
She predicted that the closer alignment with Spaulding, would provide RHCI with “a stronger voice with which to represent rehabilitation in the health care reform movement” and also strengthen its position in what it termed an “increasingly competitive” local environment.
Ms. Sim stressed that what she termed “formalizing a successful and collaborative relationship” would not create “any changes to RHCI’s leadership, staff, physicians, board of trustees or services.”
In addition, she emphasized that all donations to RHCI—now or in the future—would remain earmarked for the local facility and its outpatient centers.
Cape Medical Supply Honored
The Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce has presented Cape Medical Supply with its 2010 Business Excellence Award in the Healthcare category. Citing the company’s patient-first approach, deep community involvement, and award-winning service and care, the Chamber awarded the company the honor at an SBA recovery event April 29.
Cape Medical Supply Chief Executive Officer Gary Sheehan is a member of the Advisory Board of To Your Good Health, A Health Care Newsletter, as is Steve Abbott, former President/CEO of Cape Cod Healthcare, and a previous winner of the Chamber award.
Lifeline Medical Alarms Honored
Cape Cod Lifeline Medical Alarms has received the Philips Service Award for Excellence in Service Standards.
Cape Senior Study Available
The Barnstable County Department of Human Services has released a new publication, Cape Cod Senior and Elder Residents in the 21st Century, an analysis of the Cape's demographics and data collected in the annual Monitoring the Human Condition study.
The findings show there are 81,000 permanent year round residents of Barnstable County aged 55 or older. For a copy of the full report—or a summary—contact the Department at 508-375-6628 or www.bchumanservices.net