Shared Medical Appointments

Location: Willoughby Family Health Center
Doctor: Marianne Sumego, MD

Basic Information:

• Asthma Shared Medical Appointments meet the 4th Tuesday of the month from 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.
• Complete Physical Exam for females meets the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month from 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m. This is for established patients only for 90 minutes of wellness

• Take the Asthma Control Test
• Learn more about asthma
• Learn more about health maintenance guidelines

Patient population:

Anyone interested in obtaining better asthma care through awareness and self management.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

Consult first suggested

Contact Number
440.943.2500

Location: Lorain Family Health & Surgery Center
Doctor: Patricio Aycinena, MD

On site, nutritionist, ophthalmology, podiatrists that can be consulted or referred to.

Basic Information:

• Patients with diabetes mellitus, mainly Type 2 although we do see Type 1 diabetes patients, including people using pumps, in a shared medical setting
• The same group meets every 4 months on Wednesdays from 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
• The groups consists of 6 to 8 patients
• We cover the standards of care. We refer to it as ABCDEF : review A1C levels, blood pressure, cholesterol, diet, eye care, exercise and feet issues.
• Each patients' results are covered individually and the topics are discussed in the group setting.

• Learn more about diabetes

Provider:

Dr. Patricio Aycinena

Patient population:

People with Diabetes Mellitus (mainly Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, we have some Type 1, including pumps).

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

All patients should first have had an individual consultation with Dr. Patricio Aycinena prior to scheduling for the group. Otherwise, established patients can simply request a group physical appointment.

Contact Number
440.204.7400

Title: Diabetic Foot Exams
Location: Willoughby Hills Family Health Center
Doctor: Georgeanne Botek, DPM

Basic Information:

This is a shared medical appointment with people with diabetes and diabetic foot ulcers. Diabetes can affect nerves in the foot and prevent you from feeling injuries. It can also cause reduced or altered blood flow, which can prevent injuries from healing. Because minor injuries can become major infections among diabetics, it is important to keep a diabetic foot healthy. Prevention is the key to avoiding foot problems in diabetic patients. A diabetic foot Exam will be administered using a biothesiometer and protective sensation under the direction of Georgeanne Botek, DPM and her medical assistant. The visits will take place at the Willoughby Hills Family Health Center on the first and third Monday of each month at 1:00 p.m.

Provider Information:

Georgeanne Botek, DPM is a surgeon who specialized in patients with diabetes and diabetic ulcers. She sees patients at the Willoughby Fills Family Health Center and the main campus of Cleveland Clinic.

Brief Description:

During this shared medical appointment group visit for patients with diabetic foot ulcers, group discussions will take place about risk factors associated with diabetes and what you can do to bring your HGBA1C down. Patients will be shown how to check their feet on a daily basis by making this part of their daily routine.

• Why do Some People with Diabetes Have Foot Problems?

Patient Population:

All established English speaking diabetic patients who are in possession of their faculties and do not have a highly contagious disease at the time of the group appointment and need to be seen once every six months to a year.

How interested patients can schedule an appointment:

Patient Service Representatives are offering appointments for patients coming in for their 6-12 month diabetic foot exam. Patients can contact the Willoughby Hills Family Health Center office to schedule a diabetic shared medical appointment that is held on the 1st and 3rd Monday of the month at 1:00 p.m.

Contact Phone number:
440-943-2500

Location: Avon Point
Doctor: Denise Costanzo, CNP

Basic Information:

These sessions were created for families whose children have been diagnosed with juvenile arthritis. SMAs are held every 3 months and last 2 hours. 6-8 families attend each session. The appointments start with an introduction and then a 20 minute educational session. Patients are then examined individually and the appointment closes with review of goals and topics for next session. Please call for dates and times.

Provider:

Denise Costanzo is a certified nurse practitioner in pediatric rheumatology and specializes in long-term care of children with juvenile arthritis.

Patient population:

There are 4 groups based on child age and gender and all carry a diagnosis of juvenile arthritis:

1. children 0-7 years of age
2. girls 8-12 years of age
3. girls 13-18 years of age
4. boys 8-18 years of age

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

Call Cleveland Clinic Avon Pointe Family Health Center scheduling at 440.899.5550, option#2 and ask about dates and times to schedule an SMA.

Contact Numbers:

Denise Costanzo: 216.445.0252
or
Dr.Spalding: 216.445.1099

Location: Cleveland Clinic Main Campus
Doctor: Holly Thacker, MD

Basic Information:

Addresses medical issues of women related to menopause, osteoporosis, hormone therapy, sexual health, and any other female health concerns. Patients are seen individually in the context of a shared group setting with the attending physician, nurse and ancillary health care members. Patients often schedule bone density and mammograms on the same day. These tests are done within our facility. Patients in the Physical Exam SMA also are examined in a separate exam room first. Shared visits are not appropriate for urgent medical problems.

Specialize Women's Health Shared Medical Visit: 2 types

• Follow-up SMA (weekly most Fridays 12:30 - 2 p.m.)
• Physical SMA (once per month on Mondays 1 - 2:30 p.m.), A10 Specialized Women's Health

• Learn more about menopause

Provider:

Dr. Holly Thacker

Patient population:

Women who have medical issues related to menopause, osteoporosis, hormone therapy or other issues of women in mid life .

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

All patients should first have had an individual consultation with Dr. Holly Thacker within the Center for Specialized Women's Health.

Contact Number
216.444.3024

Location: Cleveland Clinic Main Campus
Doctor: Karen Cooper, MD

Basic Information:

The medical weight management SMA involves an initial consultation with Dr. Karen Cooper prior to continued follow up on Fridays. It will be run in conjunction with RN Ron Gambino, who has a background in cardiac rehab. Both Dr. Cooper and Ron will be facilitators, each focusing on various aspects of weight loss.

• Fridays, 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

• Learn more weight management and the protein sparring modified fast diet program

Brief Description:

The goal of this SMA is to provide comprehensive medical monitoring of weight loss with the high protein diet, including the measurement of body fat percentage and muscle mass. Chronic disease management and the promotion of wellness will also be addressed.

Patient Population:

All established English speaking, hearing adults who are ambulatory and in possession of their faculties and do not have a highly contagious disease at the time of the group appointment.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

All patients should first have had an individual consultation with Dr. Karen Cooper prior to scheduling for the group. Otherwise, established patients can simply request a group physical appointment.

Contact Number
216.445.1114

Location: Cleveland Clinic Strongsville Family Health and Surgery Center
Doctor: Irene Dejak, MD

Provider:

Irene Dejak, MD runs this shared medical appointment with Psychologist Juddy Dodds, PhD and Registered Dietician Gillian Culbertson.

Basic Information:

The Weight Management Shared Medical Appointment is a program where Dr. Dejak will help with weight loss through lifestyle management. There will be approximately 8 patients present at each meeting. Dr. Dejak will go through a medical appointment with each individual patient while the other are in the room so that everyone can learn from each other. A Psychologist or Dietician will also be present at every session. The goal of this SMA offers the medical monitoring of weight loss by providing the patient with tools that include lifestyle and diet changes. Chronic disease management and the promotion of wellness will also be addressed. The medical weight management SMA involves an initial consultation with Dr. Irene Dejak prior to continued follow up on Mondays, from 5:30 pm-7:30 pm, focusing using a variety of lifestyle and diet changes to help with weight loss.

• Mondays, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

• Preventive Medicine adult health maintenance guidelines

Brief Description:

The goal of this SMA offers the medical monitoring of weight loss by providing the patient with tools that include lifestyle and diet changes. Chronic disease management and the promotion of wellness will also be addressed. Psychologist Juddy Dodds and Registered dietician Gillian Culbertson

Patient Population:

All established English speaking, hearing adults who are ambulatory and in possession of their faculties and do not have a highly contagious disease at the time of the group appointment. Additionally, patients with a BMI between the range of 27-43, who also experience one or several of the following: hypertension, hyperlipidemia, metabolic syndrome, liver disease (NASH), diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, sleep apnea (OSA), or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This SMA is not for patients who have had previous bariatric surgery.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

All patients should first have had an individual consultation with Dr. Irene Dejak prior to scheduling for the group. Otherwise, established patients can simply request a group physical appointment.

Contact Number
440.878.2500

Title: Gilenya First Dose Education Session
Location: Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research
Provider: Claire Hara-Cleaver, CNP

Basic Information:

Patients are educated regarding a new oral Multiple Sclerosis (MS) medication named Gilenya. Gilenya is an oral disease modifying treatment for MS. Gilenya was approved to reduce relapses and disability progression in patients with relapsing forms of MS. For patients with ongoing disease activity, intolerable side effects, or trouble with the previously-available MS therapies, Gilenya is an appropriate option.

Provider:

Nurse Practitioner Claire Hara-Cleaver runs the education session and assesses each patient individually. A Medical Assistant assists with vital signs and monitoring.

Brief Description:

Shared Medical Appointment (SMA) for people (both male and female) with multiple sclerosis involves an initial consultation with a neurologist from the Mellen Center prior to attending this SMA. After being seen, patients are educated regarding a new oral Multiple Sclerosis (MS) medication named Gilenya. Gilenya is an oral disease modifying treatment for MS. Gilenya was approved to reduce relapses and disability progression in patients with relapsing forms of MS. For patients with ongoing disease activity, intolerable side effects, or trouble with the previously-available MS therapies, Gilenya is an appropriate option. After being administered Gilenya, patients are monitored for 6 hours after their first dose and are observed for any potential side effects or allergic reactions.

• Patient Information for Multiple Sclerosis

Patient Population:

All established English speaking hearing adult multiple sclerosis patients who have been seen by a Cleveland Clinic neurologist at the Mellen Center before this visit and who are in possession of their faculties and do not have a highly contagious disease at the time of the group appointment.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

All patients should first have had an individual consultation with a physician at the Mellen Center prior to scheduling for the group. Otherwise, established patients can simply request a group physical appointment through the appointment line at Cleveland Clinic Mellen Center at 216.445.7132.

Contact Information:
216.445.7132

Location: Lorain Family Health & Surgery Center
Doctor: Feyrouz Al-Ashkar, MD, FACR, Rebecca Hall, APN

Basic Information:

• Self referrals
• Do not meet regularly, will need to call for schedule

• Learn more about osteoporosis

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

All patients should first have had an individual consultation with Dr. Fey Al-Ashkar prior to scheduling for the group. Otherwise, established patients can simply request a shared medical appointment.

Contact Number
440.204.7400

Title: Shared Acupuncture Medical Appointment
Location: Cleveland Clinic Wellness Institute, Lyndhurst Campus
Doctor: Jamie Starkey, Lead Acupuncturist

Basic Information:

Shared Acupuncture Medical Appointment (SAMA) clinic can make acupuncture affordable while allowing patients to experience the proven benefits of acupuncture in a group setting at reduced cost. Therapy follows the same principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine for diagnosis and acupuncture point selection.

Each SAMA visit is self-pay and differs from the private acupuncture setting only by way of the environment makes available to more patients the same high quality therapeutic benefits as is offered through a private acupuncture appointment, but at a significantly reduced personal expense. Many patients enjoy the shared healing experience and support they receive from other patients in the group setting.

Patients attending shared appointments can receive treatment for the same conditions as in the private setting, including but not limited to: acute and chronic pain, stress, anxiety and depression; drug/tobacco withdrawal; migraines and severe headaches; allergy symptoms; nausea and vomiting; Insomnia and side effects due to chemotherapy and radiation.

Provider:

Jamie Starkey, LAc is Lead Acupuncturist with the Center for Integrative Medicine. Jamie earned a Bachelors degree in Biology, University of Toledo, and a Masters level degree in Acupuncture, American Institute of Alternative Medicine. She further enhanced her clinical training by completing a Clinical Internship at Guang AnMen Hospital in Beijing China, Acupuncture and Moxibustion Outpatient Department, an affiliate of the China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine. She is a Diplomate of Acupuncture, National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), and holds her acupuncture license from the Ohio State Medical Board. Additionally, she is a Level II Reiki Practitioner. Jamie has served as the Secretary of Ohio Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (OAAOM) 12/06-12/08 and a member Ohio Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (OAAOM) 12/05-Present.

She has a focus on women’s health, oncology, acute/chronic pain management, stress-related disorders and acupuncture clinical research.

Brief Description:

Shared Acupuncture Medical Appointment (SAMA) work the same way as private appointments, however patients sit upright in a recliner rather than lying on a table. In addition, they remain fully clothed with their shirt sleeves and pants rolled up to allow access to acupuncture points: ear, hands, legs, and scalp. Just as in a private appointment, fine needles are inserted into these various points for approximately 25-30 minutes to induce a therapeutic effect.

Patients attending shared acupuncture medical appointments can receive treatment for the same conditions as in the private setting, including but not limited to: acute and chronic pain, stress, anxiety and depression; drug/tobacco withdrawal; migraines and severe headaches; allergy symptoms; nausea and vomiting; Insomnia and side effects due to chemotherapy and radiation.

Patient population:

All established English speaking, hearing adults who are ambulatory and in possession of their faculties and do not have a highly contagious disease at the time of the group appointment. Conditions treated in the SAMA clinic include, but are not limited to: acute and chronic pain, stress, anxiety and depression, drug or tobacco withdrawal, migraines and severe headaches, allergy symptoms, nausea and vomiting, insomnia, side effects from chemotherapy and radiation treatment.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

Prior to scheduling a shared appointment, a patient must schedule an initial private consultation with an acupuncturist during which the patient is evaluated and an appropriate treatment plan is formulated. The acupuncturist will then recommend the SAMA clinic, private appointments, or a combination of the two based on the complexity of the patient’s specific diagnosis and the techniques the acupuncturist feels will best address those needs. Advanced techniques for more complex conditions may require a private appointment. Call Center for Integrative Medicine at 216.986.HEAL (4325).

Contact Number
216.986.4325

Location: Cleveland Clinic main campus, JB-1
Doctor: Loretta Planavsky, Certified Nurse Practitioner

Basic Information:

Certified Nurse Practitioner Loretta Planavsky leads the group with Registered dietician Julie Zumpano. Results from lab work, blood pressure and BMI are shared with the group and each patients results are also addressed individually. Julie Zumpano, RD, leads a discussion on nutrition and heart health.

Patient population:

Preventive cardiology patients who have been seen at least once who are considered low risk.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

All patients should first have an individual consultation with a cardiologist prior to scheduling for the group. Otherwise, established patients can simply request a group physical appointment.

Contact Number
216.444.9353

Location: Twinsburg Family Health & Surgery Center
Doctor: Rick Kratche, MD

Basic Information:

• Women's Shared Medical Appointment (SMA) involves a physical examination the 1st Monday of every month, 6 - 8 p.m. at Twinsburg Family Health & Surgery Center
• Men's Shared Medical Appointment (SMA) involves a physical examination the 3rd Monday of every month 6 - 8 p.m., at Twinsburg Family Health & Surgery Center

Learn more about health maintenance guidelines

Provider:

Dr. Kratche runs them with Registered Nurse Lynn Spencer and Medical Assistant Meagan Sloan. Lynn serves as the behavioral health specialist and facilitator. Additionally, there is another medical assistant who provides additional support during the session.

Brief Description:

Goals of the SMA are discussed in the first minutes of the visit. The goal of this SMA is to provide comprehensive physical exams in a timely fashion and in a highly educational group setting, attending to both chronic disease management and the promotion of wellness (preventive medicine).

Patient population:

All established English speaking, hearing adults who are in possession of their faculties and do not have a highly contagious disease at the time of the group appointment. We conduct both male and female shared medical appointment sessions.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

All patients should first have had an individual consultation with Dr. Richard Kratche prior to scheduling for the group. Otherwise, established patients can simply request a group physical appointment.

Contact Number
330.888.4000

Title: Improving the health of patients with PREDIABETES

Location:Cleveland Clinic Beachwood Family Health & Surgery Center
Doctor: Aphrodite Papadakis, MD

Basic Information:

This SMA will be held monthly, beginning the first Wednesday of the month, beginning May 2012. It is for patients who fall into the category of Pre-Diabetes and also have either High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol or both. Patients will have the opportunity to have specific concerns addressed in a way that benefits the entire group. This will be 90 minutes of focused time with the healthcare team working on preventing diabetes, improving lifestyle and learning about YOUR unique health concerns.

Provider:

The SMA will be lead by family medicine specialist Aphrodite Papadakis, MD. The other members of the health care team are Certified Nurse Practitioner Susan Perez and registered nurse, Carol Krestel.

Brief Description:

Family Medicine specialist Aphrodite Papadakis, MD and her healthcare team of Susan Perez, CNP and Carol Krestel, RN will provide 90 minutes of focused time to patients who are diagnosed as pre-diabetes, and high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or both. Patients will have the opportunity to have their specific concerns addressed. The healthcare team will offer ways to prevent diabetes, improve one’s lifestyle and address any other health concerns.

Patient population:

This SMA is for adult patients with a HgbA1C between 6.7 and 7.3 OR a fasting blood sugar over 100 AND a diagnosis of either high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or both.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

Contact us at Cleveland Clinic Beachwood Family Health Center within the Family Medicine Department at 216.839.3900 to learn more and schedule your appointment. Patients are encouraged BUT NOT REQUIRED to attend monthly appointments for 6 sessions.

Contact Number
216.839.3900

Title: Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Location: Cleveland Clinic Main Campus, A90
Doctor: Joseph Parambil, MD and Svetlana Banjac, CNP

Basic Information:

• During a Shared Medical Appointment for Pulmonary Hypertension, 6-8 patients and their caregivers are seen together in a setting that promotes sharing of common concerns and experiences, giving patients the opportunity to connect to others who have Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension to share ideas and to learn from one another. Disease management and wellness promotion such as routine health care screenings and vaccinations are also addressed. Patients are seen individually and in the group setting with the attending physician, nurse practitioner, and our PAH ancillary health care team.
• SMA’s are held in January, April, July, and October on the second Thursday of the month from 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. The SMA will include a 6 minute walk test and the medical appointment only on the day of the visit.

Learn more about health maintenance guidelines

Provider Information:

Dr. Parambil runs this shared medical appointment with Certified Nurse Practitioner Svetlana Banjac as well as the Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension health care team .

Brief Description:

Goals of the SMA are discussed in the first minutes of the visit. The goal of this SMA is to provide a 6 minute walk test and a medical appointment on the day of the visit. Information is shared in a highly educational group setting, attending to both disease management and the promotion of wellness, including routine health screenings and vaccinations.

During the shared visits, patients can also be seen in a private exam room for individualized care, as needed.

Patient Population:

All established English speaking, hearing adults who are in possession of their faculties and do not have a highly contagious disease at the time of the group appointment and who have a diagnosis of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension. Patients must be on a stable dose of oral, inhaled, or intravenous or subcutaneous medications. Patients will still continue to see their established Pulmonary Hypertension specialist at follow-up appointments and urgent visits.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

Established patients can schedule a shared medical appointment for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension by calling the medical offices of Svetlana Banjac, CNP

Contact Phone Number:

216.445.3636

Title: Stroke Survivors
Location: Cleveland Clinic‘s Hillcrest Hospital and Cleveland Clinic Lakewood Hospital
Provider: Sue Jaeger, CNP

Basic Information:

During a Shared Medical Appointment for Stroke Survivors, stroke survivors can learn from each other various ways to gain control of their personal risk factors while having the benefit of a health care professional present to provide expertise on the information discussed.

Using guidelines from the American Stroke Association, the focus of the discussion in the SMA is on achieving optimal stroke risk factor control. Creative ways on how to handle the following controllable risk factors are shared and discussed, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, being overweight or obese, diet, smoking, a sedentary lifestyle and alcohol intake.

In addition, each patient in the shared medical appointment takes part in an individualized neurological assessment by an advanced practice nurse (nurse practitioner). This is done in a private exam room and addresses individual recovery, symptoms or concerns.

• SMA’s are held monthly
• Learn more about your risk of strokes. Each year nearly 800,000 Americans experience a new or recurrent stroke, which is the nation’s third leading cause of death. Stroke is the leading cause of serious, long-term disability in the United States, with about 6.5 million stroke survivors alive today.
• Do you know your risk of having a stroke? The stroke risk calculator can be used to assess your risk of having a stroke within the next 10 years. Please note that this calculation is an estimate only - please see your doctor for an accurate diagnosis as there may be other contributing risk factors

Provider:

Certified Nurse Practitioner Sue Jaeger, CNP, at Cleveland Clinic’s Cerebrovascular Center will hold these monthly sessions for stroke survivors.

Brief Description:

Goals of the SMA are discussed in the first minutes of the visit. The goal of this SMA is to provide a learning and supportive environment for stroke survivors to achieve optimal stroke risk factor controls. Information is shared in a highly educational group setting. In addition, each patient in the shared medical appointment takes part in an individualized neurological assessment by an advanced practice nurse (nurse practitioner). This is done in a private exam room and addresses individual recovery, symptoms or concerns.

Patient Population:

All established English speaking, hearing adults who are in possession of their faculties and do not have a highly contagious disease at the time of the group appointment and who have a diagnosis of stroke.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

Stroke survivors will be able to schedule a shared medical appointment on both the east side and west side of Cleveland. Established stroke survivor patients can schedule a shared medical appointment at the Neurological Institute at Hillcrest Hospital by calling the medical offices at 440.312.6100. Established stroke survivor patients can schedule a shared medical appointment at the Neurological Institute at Lakewood Hospital by calling the medical offices at 216. 529.7110.

Contact Information:
Neurological Institute at Hillcrest Hospital - 440.312.6100
Neurological Institute at Lakewood Hospital - 216.529.7110

Location: Cleveland Clinic Main Campus
Doctor: Lillian Gonsalves, MD

Basic Information:

• Medical management for anxiety and depression.
• Keeps patients functioning and out of the hospital
• Provide support, education, handouts as needed
• Mood Disorders in Women, meets weekly, Mondays, 3 - 4:30 p.m.

• Learn more about depression

Provider:

Lillian Gonsalves MD and Jeri Hagan Sowell MS

Patient population:

Women 18 and over with mood and anxiety disorders. We exclude severe personality disorders, psychotic and demented patients.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

Call 216.636.5860, ask for Gail or my office at 216.444.2197, ask for Jeri.

Contact Number
216.636.5860

Location: Independence Family Health Center
Doctor: Pelin Batur, MD

Basic Information:

• Women's Shared Medical Appointment (SMA) involves a physical examination with women 50 years of age and older once a month on a Monday afternoon at Cleveland Clinic Independence Family Health Center
• Women's Shared Medical Appointment (SMA) involves a physical examination with women less than 50 years of age once a month on a Monday afternoon at Cleveland Clinic Independence Family Health Center

• Learn more about health maintenance guidelines

Provider:

Dr. Batur runs them with Registered Nurse Lori Sherwood. Lori serves as the behavioral health specialist and facilitator.

Brief Description:

The goal of this SMA is to provide comprehensive physical exams in a timely fashion and in a highly educational group setting, attending to women’s health issues and the promotion of wellness (preventive medicine).

Patient population:

All established English speaking, hearing adults who are in possession of their faculties and do not have a highly contagious disease at the time of the group appointment.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

This is for established patients of Dr. Pelin Batur. All patients should first have had an individual consultation with Dr. Pelin Batur prior to scheduling for the group. Otherwise, established patients can simply request a group physical appointment.

Contact Number

216.986.4000 ext 6333

Title: Women’s Health and Preventive Medicine
Location: Beachwood Family Health and Surgery Center, Room 22 North
Doctor: Laura Lipold, MD

Basic Information:

• Women's Shared Medical Appointment (SMA) involves a physical examination with women between the ages of 18-50 years, followed by a group discussion.
• The group meets the first and third Monday of each month from 9 - 10:30 a.m. at Cleveland Clinic Beachwood Family Health & Surgery Center

• Learn more about health maintenance guidelines for women

Provider Information:

Laura D. Lipold, MD, is on Staff in the Department of Family Medicine at Cleveland Clinic and Director of Primary Care Women's Health. She sees patients at Cleveland Clinic Beachwood Family Health & Surgery Center. Conducting the SMA along with Dr. Lipold is Carol Krestel, RN. Carol serves as the behavioral health specialist and facilitator.

Brief Description:

The goal of this SMA is to provide comprehensive physical exams in a timely fashion and in a highly educational group setting, attending to women’s health issues and the promotion of wellness (preventive medicine). The group meets the first and third Monday of each month from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Patient population:

All established English speaking, women aged 18-50 years, who are in possession of their faculties and do not have a highly contagious disease at the time of the group appointment.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

This is for established patients of Dr. Laura Lipold. All patients should first have had an individual consultation with Dr. Lipold prior to scheduling for the group. Otherwise, established patients can simply request a group physical appointment.

Contact Number

216.839.3900

Location: Cleveland Clinic Main Campus
Doctor: Karen Cooper, MD

Basic Information:

The medical weight management SMA involves an initial consultation with Dr. Karen Cooper prior to continued follow up on Fridays. It will be run in conjunction with RN Ron Gambino, who has a background in cardiac rehab. Both Dr. Cooper and Ron will be facilitators, each focusing on various aspects of weight loss.

• Fridays, 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

• Learn more weight management and the protein sparring modified fast diet program

Brief Description:

The goal of this SMA is to provide comprehensive medical monitoring of weight loss with the high protein diet, including the measurement of body fat percentage and muscle mass. Chronic disease management and the promotion of wellness will also be addressed.

Patient Population:

All established English speaking, hearing adults who are ambulatory and in possession of their faculties and do not have a highly contagious disease at the time of the group appointment.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

All patients should first have had an individual consultation with Dr. Karen Cooper prior to scheduling for the group. Otherwise, established patients can simply request a group physical appointment.

Contact Number
216.445.1114

Title: Stroke Survivors
Location: Cleveland Clinic‘s Hillcrest Hospital and Cleveland Clinic Lakewood Hospital
Provider: Sue Jaeger, CNP

Basic Information:

During a Shared Medical Appointment for Stroke survivors, stroke survivors can learn from each other various ways to gain control of their personal risk factors while having the benefit of a health care professional present to provide expertise on the information discussed.

Using guidelines from the American Stroke Association, the focus of the discussion in the SMA is on achieving optimal stroke risk factor control. Creative ways on how to handle the following controllable risk factors are shared and discussed, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, being overweight or obese, diet, smoking, a sedentary lifestyle and alcohol intake.

In addition, each patient in the shared medical appointment takes part in an individualized neurological assessment by an advanced practice nurse (nurse practitioner). This is done in a private exam room and addresses individual recovery, symptoms or concerns.

• SMA’s are held monthly
• Learn more about your risk of strokes. Each year nearly 800,000 Americans experience a new or recurrent stroke, which is the nation’s third leading cause of death. Stroke is the leading cause of serious, long-term disability in the United States, with about 6.5 million stroke survivors alive today.
• Do you know your risk of having a stroke? The stroke risk calculator can be used to assess your risk of having a stroke within the next 10 years. Please note that this calculation is an estimate only - please see your doctor for an accurate diagnosis as there may be other contributing risk factors

Provider:

Certified Nurse Practitioner Sue Jaeger, CNP, at Cleveland Clinic’s Cerebrovascular Center will hold these monthly sessions for stroke survivors.

Brief Description:

Goals of the SMA are discussed in the first minutes of the visit. The goal of this SMA is to provide a learning and supportive environment for stroke survivors to achieve optimal stroke risk factor controls. Information is shared in a highly educational group setting. In addition, each patient in the shared medical appointment takes part in an individualized neurological assessment by an advanced practice nurse (nurse practitioner). This is done in a private exam room and addresses individual recovery, symptoms or concerns.

Patient Population:

All established English speaking, hearing adults who are in possession of their faculties and do not have a highly contagious disease at the time of the group appointment and who have a diagnosis of stroke.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

Stroke survivors will be able to schedule a shared medical appointment on both the east side and west side of Cleveland. Established stroke survivor patients can schedule a shared medical appointment at the Neurological Institute at Hillcrest Hospital by calling the medical offices at 440.312.6100. Established stroke survivor patients can schedule a shared medical appointment at the Neurological Institute at Lakewood Hospital by calling the medical offices at 216. 529.7110.

Contact Information:
Neurological Institute at Hillcrest Hospital - 440.312.6100
Neurological Institute at Lakewood Hospital - 216.529.7110

Location: Independence Family Health Center
Doctor: Pelin Batur, MD

Basic Information:

• Women's Shared Medical Appointment (SMA) involves a physical examination with women 50 years of age and older once a month on a Monday afternoon at Cleveland Clinic Independence Family Health Center
• Women's Shared Medical Appointment (SMA) involves a physical examination with women less than 50 years of age once a month on a Monday afternoon at Cleveland Clinic Independence Family Health Center

• Learn more about health maintenance guidelines

Provider:

Dr. Batur runs them with Registered Nurse Lori Sherwood. Lori serves as the behavioral health specialist and facilitator.

Brief Description:

The goal of this SMA is to provide comprehensive physical exams in a timely fashion and in a highly educational group setting, attending to women’s health issues and the promotion of wellness (preventive medicine).

Patient population:

All established English speaking, hearing adults who are in possession of their faculties and do not have a highly contagious disease at the time of the group appointment.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

This is for established patients of Dr. Pelin Batur. All patients should first have had an individual consultation with Dr. Pelin Batur prior to scheduling for the group. Otherwise, established patients can simply request a group physical appointment.

Contact Number

216.986.4000 ext 6333

Location: Cleveland Clinic Strongsville Family Health and Surgery Center
Doctor: Irene Dejak, MD

Provider:

Irene Dejak, MD runs this shared medical appointment with Psychologist Juddy Dodds, PhD and Registered Dietician Gillian Culbertson.

Basic Information:

The Weight Management Shared Medical Appointment is a program where Dr. Dejak will help with weight loss through lifestyle management. There will be approximately 8 patients present at each meeting. Dr. Dejak will go through a medical appointment with each individual patient while the other are in the room so that everyone can learn from each other. A Psychologist or Dietician will also be present at every session. The goal of this SMA offers the medical monitoring of weight loss by providing the patient with tools that include lifestyle and diet changes. Chronic disease management and the promotion of wellness will also be addressed. The medical weight management SMA involves an initial consultation with Dr. Irene Dejak prior to continued follow up on Mondays, from 5:30 pm-7:30 pm, focusing using a variety of lifestyle and diet changes to help with weight loss.

• Mondays, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

• Preventive Medicine adult health maintenance guidelines

Brief Description:

The goal of this SMA offers the medical monitoring of weight loss by providing the patient with tools that include lifestyle and diet changes. Chronic disease management and the promotion of wellness will also be addressed. Psychologist Juddy Dodds and Registered dietician Gillian Culbertson

Patient Population:

All established English speaking, hearing adults who are ambulatory and in possession of their faculties and do not have a highly contagious disease at the time of the group appointment. Additionally, patients with a BMI between the range of 27-43, who also experience one or several of the following: hypertension, hyperlipidemia, metabolic syndrome, liver disease (NASH), diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, sleep apnea (OSA), or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This SMA is not for patients who have had previous bariatric surgery.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

All patients should first have had an individual consultation with Dr. Irene Dejak prior to scheduling for the group. Otherwise, established patients can simply request a group physical appointment.

Contact Number
440.878.2500

Location: Willoughby Family Health Center
Doctor: Marianne Sumego, MD

Basic Information:

• Asthma Shared Medical Appointments meet the 4th Tuesday of the month from 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.
• Complete Physical Exam for females meets the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month from 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m. This is for established patients only for 90 minutes of wellness

• Take the Asthma Control Test
• Learn more about asthma
• Learn more about health maintenance guidelines

Patient population:

Anyone interested in obtaining better asthma care through awareness and self management.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

Consult first suggested

Contact Number
440.943.2500

Location: Twinsburg Family Health & Surgery Center
Doctor: Rick Kratche, MD

Basic Information:

• Women's Shared Medical Appointment (SMA) involves a physical examination the 1st Monday of every month, 6 - 8 p.m. at Twinsburg Family Health & Surgery Center
• Men's Shared Medical Appointment (SMA) involves a physical examination the 3rd Monday of every month 6 - 8 p.m., at Twinsburg Family Health & Surgery Center

• Learn more about health maintenance guidelines

Provider:

Dr. Kratche runs them with Registered Nurse Lynn Spencer and Medical Assistant Meagan Sloan.. Lynn serves as the behavioral health specialist and facilitator. Additionally, there is another medical assistant who provides additional support during the session.

Brief Description:

Goals of the SMA are discussed in the first minutes of the visit. Thie goal of this SMA is to provide comprehensive physical exams in a timely fashion and in a highly educational group setting, attending to both chronic disease management and the promotion of wellness (preventive medicine).

Patient population:

All established English speaking, hearing adults who are in possession of their faculties and do not have a highly contagious disease at the time of the group appointment. We conduct both male and female shared medical appointment sessions.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

All patients should first have had an individual consultation with Dr. Richard Kratche prior to scheduling for the group. Otherwise, established patients can simply request a group physical appointment.

Contact Number
330.888.4000

Title: Improving the health of patients with PREDIABETES

Location:Cleveland Clinic Beachwood Family Health & Surgery Center
Doctor: Aphrodite Papadakis, MD

Basic Information:

This SMA will be held monthly, beginning the first Wednesday of the month, beginning May 2012. It is for patients who fall into the category of Pre-Diabetes and also have either High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol or both. Patients will have the opportunity to have specific concerns addressed in a way that benefits the entire group. This will be 90 minutes of focused time with the healthcare team working on preventing diabetes, improving lifestyle and learning about YOUR unique health concerns.

Provider:

The SMA will be lead by family medicine specialist Aphrodite Papadakis, MD. The other members of the health care team are Certified Nurse Practitioner Susan Perez and registered nurse, Carol Krestel.

Brief Description:

Family Medicine specialist Aphrodite Papadakis, MD and her healthcare team of Susan Perez, CNP and Carol Krestel, RN will provide 90 minutes of focused time to patients who are diagnosed as pre-diabetes, and high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or both. Patients will have the opportunity to have their specific concerns addressed. The healthcare team will offer ways to prevent diabetes, improve one’s lifestyle and address any other health concerns.

Patient population:

This SMA is for adult patients with a HgbA1C between 6.7 and 7.3 OR a fasting blood sugar over 100 AND a diagnosis of either high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or both.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

Contact us at Cleveland Clinic Beachwood Family Health Center within the Family Medicine Department at 216.839.3900 to learn more and schedule your appointment. Patients are encouraged BUT NOT REQUIRED to attend monthly appointments for 6 sessions.

Contact Number
216.839.3900

Title: Women’s Health and Preventive Medicine
Location: Beachwood Family Health and Surgery Center, Room 22 North
Doctor: Laura Lipold, MD

Basic Information:

• Women's Shared Medical Appointment (SMA) involves a physical examination with women between the ages of 18-50 years, followed by a group discussion.
• The group meets the first and third Monday of each month from 9 - 10:30 a.m. at Cleveland Clinic Beachwood Family Health & Surgery Center

• Learn more about health maintenance guidelines for women

Provider Information:

Laura D. Lipold, MD, is on Staff in the Department of Family Medicine at Cleveland Clinic and Director of Primary Care Women's Health. She sees patients at Cleveland Clinic Beachwood Family Health & Surgery Center. Conducting the SMA along with Dr. Lipold is Carol Krestel, RN. Carol serves as the behavioral health specialist and facilitator.

Brief Description:

The goal of this SMA is to provide comprehensive physical exams in a timely fashion and in a highly educational group setting, attending to women’s health issues and the promotion of wellness (preventive medicine). The group meets the first and third Monday of each month from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Patient population:

All established English speaking, women aged 18-50 years, who are in possession of their faculties and do not have a highly contagious disease at the time of the group appointment.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

This is for established patients of Dr. Laura Lipold. All patients should first have had an individual consultation with Dr. Lipold prior to scheduling for the group. Otherwise, established patients can simply request a group physical appointment.

Contact Number

216.839.3900

Location: Cleveland Clinic Main Campus
Doctor: Lillian Gonsalves, MD

Basic Information:

• Medical management for anxiety and depression.
• Keeps patients functioning and out of the hospital
• Provide support, education, handouts as needed
• Mood Disorders in Women, meets weekly, Mondays, 3 - 4:30 p.m.

• Learn more about depression

Provider:

Lillian Gonsalves MD and Jeri Hagan Sowell MS

Patient population:

Women 18 and over with mood and anxiety disorders. We exclude severe personality disorders, psychotic and demented patients.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

Call 216.636.5860, ask for Gail or my office at 216.444.2197, ask for Jeri.

Contact Number
216.636.5860

Location: Lorain Family Health & Surgery Center
Doctor: Patricio Aycinena, MD

On site, nutritionist, ophthalmology, podiatrists that can be consulted or referred to.

Basic Information:

• Patients with diabetes mellitus, mainly Type 2 although we do see Type 1 diabetes patients, including people using pumps, in a shared medical setting
• The same group meets every 4 months on Wednesdays from 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
• The groups consists of 6 to 8 patients
• We cover the standards of care. We refer to it as ABCDEF : review A1C levels, blood pressure, cholesterol, diet, eye care, exercise and feet issues.
• Each patients' results are covered individually and the topics are discussed in the group setting.

• Learn more about diabetes

Provider:

Dr. Patricio Aycinena

Patient population:

People with Diabetes Mellitus (mainly Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, we have some Type 1, including pumps).

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

All patients should first have had an individual consultation with Dr. Patricio Aycinena prior to scheduling for the group. Otherwise, established patients can simply request a group physical appointment.

Contact Number
440.204.7400

Title: Gilenya First Dose Education Session
Location: Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research
Provider: Claire Hara-Cleaver, CNP

Basic Information:

Patients are educated regarding a new oral Multiple Sclerosis (MS) medication named Gilenya. Gilenya is an oral disease modifying treatment for MS. Gilenya was approved to reduce relapses and disability progression in patients with relapsing forms of MS. For patients with ongoing disease activity, intolerable side effects, or trouble with the previously-available MS therapies, Gilenya is an appropriate option.

Provider:

Nurse Practitioner Claire Hara-Cleaver runs the education session and assesses each patient individually. A Medical Assistant assists with vital signs and monitoring.

Brief Description:

Shared Medical Appointment (SMA) for people (both male and female) with multiple sclerosis involves an initial consultation with a neurologist from the Mellen Center prior to attending this SMA. After being seen, patients are educated regarding a new oral Multiple Sclerosis (MS) medication named Gilenya. Gilenya is an oral disease modifying treatment for MS. Gilenya was approved to reduce relapses and disability progression in patients with relapsing forms of MS. For patients with ongoing disease activity, intolerable side effects, or trouble with the previously-available MS therapies, Gilenya is an appropriate option. After being administered Gilenya, patients are monitored for 6 hours after their first dose and are observed for any potential side effects or allergic reactions.

• Patient Information for Multiple Sclerosis

Patient Population:

All established English speaking hearing adult multiple sclerosis patients who have been seen by a Cleveland Clinic neurologist at the Mellen Center before this visit and who are in possession of their faculties and do not have a highly contagious disease at the time of the group appointment.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

All patients should first have had an individual consultation with a physician at the Mellen Center ¬¬¬¬¬prior to scheduling for the group. Otherwise, established patients can simply request a group physical appointment through the appointment line at Cleveland Clinic Mellen Center at 216.445.7132.

Contact Information:
216.445.7132

Title: Diabetic Foot Exams
Location: Willoughby Hills Family Health Center
Doctor: Georgeanne Botek, DPM

Basic Information:

This is a shared medical appointment with people with diabetes and diabetic foot ulcers. Diabetes can affect nerves in the foot and prevent you from feeling injuries. It can also cause reduced or altered blood flow, which can prevent injuries from healing. Because minor injuries can become major infections among diabetics, it is important to keep a diabetic foot healthy. Prevention is the key to avoiding foot problems in diabetic patients. A diabetic foot Exam will be administered using a biothesiometer and protective sensation under the direction of Georgeanne Botek, DPM and her medical assistant. The visits will take place at the Willoughby Hills Family Health Center on the first and third Monday of each month at 1:00 p.m.

Provider Information:

Georgeanne Botek, DPM is a surgeon who specialized in patients with diabetes and diabetic ulcers. She sees patients at the Willoughby Fills Family Health Center and the main campus of Cleveland Clinic.

Brief Description:

During this shared medical appointment group visit for patients with diabetic foot ulcers, group discussions will take place about risk factors associated with diabetes and what you can do to bring your HGBA1C down. Patients will be shown how to check their feet on a daily basis by making this part of their daily routine.

• Why do Some People with Diabetes Have Foot Problems?

Patient Population:

All established English speaking diabetic patients who are in possession of their faculties and do not have a highly contagious disease at the time of the group appointment and need to be seen once every six months to a year.

How interested patients can schedule an appointment:

Patient Service Representatives are offering appointments for patients coming in for their 6-12 month diabetic foot exam. Patients can contact the Willoughby Hills Family Health Center office to schedule a diabetic shared medical appointment that is held on the 1st and 3rd Monday of the month at 1:00 p.m.

Contact Phone number:
440-943-2500

Title: Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Location: Cleveland Clinic Main Campus, A90
Doctor: Joseph Parambil, MD and Svetlana Banjac, CNP

Basic Information:

During a Shared Medical Appointment for Pulmonary Hypertension, 6-8 patients and their caregivers are seen together in a setting that promotes sharing of common concerns and experiences, giving patients the opportunity to connect to others who have Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension to share ideas and to learn from one another. Disease management and wellness promotion such as routine health care screenings and vaccinations are also addressed. Patients are seen individually and in the group setting with the attending physician, nurse practitioner, and our PAH ancillary health care team.

SMA’s are held in January, April, July, and October on the second Thursday of the month from 1:00 pm-2:30pm. The SMA will include a 6 minute walk test and the medical appointment only on the day of the visit.

Learn more about health maintenance guidelines

Provider Information:

Dr. Parambil runs this shared medical appointment with Certified Nurse Practitioner Svetlana Banjac as well as the Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension health care team .

Brief Description:

Goals of the SMA are discussed in the first minutes of the visit. The goal of this SMA is to provide a 6 minute walk test and a medical appointment on the day of the visit. Information is shared in a highly educational group setting, attending to both disease management and the promotion of wellness, including routine health screenings and vaccinations.

During the shared visits, patients can also be seen in a private exam room for individualized care, as needed.

Patient population:

All established English speaking, hearing adults who are in possession of their faculties and do not have a highly contagious disease at the time of the group appointment and who have a diagnosis of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension. Patients must be on a stable dose of oral, inhaled, or intravenous or subcutaneous medications. Patients will still continue to see their established Pulmonary Hypertension specialist at follow-up appointments and urgent visits.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

Established patients can schedule a shared medical appointment for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension by calling the medical offices of Svetlana Banjac, CNP

Contact Phone Number:
216.445.3636

Location: Lorain Family Health & Surgery Center
Doctor: Feyrouz Al-Ashkar, MD, FACR, Rebecca Hall, APN

Basic Information:

• Self referrals
• Do not meet regularly, will need to call for schedule

• Learn more about osteoporosis

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

All patients should first have had an individual consultation with Dr. Fey Al-Ashkar prior to scheduling for the group. Otherwise, established patients can simply request a shared medical appointment.

Contact Number
440.204.7400

Location for Juvenile Arthritis: Avon Point
Doctor: Denise Costanzo, CNP

Basic Information:

These sessions were created for families whose children have been diagnosed with juvenile arthritis. SMAs are held every 3 months and last 2 hours. 6-8 families attend each session. The appointments start with an introduction and then a 20 minute educational session. Patients are then examined individually and the appointment closes with review of goals and topics for next session. Please call for dates and times.

Provider:

Denise Costanzo is a certified nurse practitioner in pediatric rheumatology and specializes in long-term care of children with juvenile arthritis.

Patient population:

There are 4 groups based on child age and gender and all carry a diagnosis of juvenile arthritis:

1. children 0-7 years of age
2. girls 8-12 years of age
3. girls 13-18 years of age
4. boys 8-18 years of age

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

Call Cleveland Clinic Avon Pointe Family Health Center scheduling at 440-899-5550, option#2 and ask about dates and times to schedule an SMA.

Contact Numbers:

Denise Costanzo: 216.445.0252
or
Dr.Spalding: 216.445.1099

Location: Cleveland Clinic main campus, JB-1
Doctor: Loretta Planavsky, Certified Nurse Practitioner

Basic Information:

Certified Nurse Practitioner Loretta Planavsky leads the group with Registered dietician Julie Zumpano. Results from lab work, blood pressure and BMI are shared with the group and each patients results are also addressed individually. Julie Zumpano, RD, leads a discussion on nutrition and heart health.

Patient population:

Preventive cardiology patients who have been seen at least once who are considered low risk.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

All patients should first have an individual consultation with a cardiologist prior to scheduling for the group. Otherwise, established patients can simply request a group physical appointment.

Contact Number
216.444.9353

Title: Shared Acupuncture Medical Appointment
Location: Cleveland Clinic Wellness Institute, Lyndhurst Campus
Doctor: Jamie Starkey, Lead Acupuncturist

Basic Information:

Shared Acupuncture Medical Appointment (SAMA) clinic can make acupuncture affordable while allowing patients to experience the proven benefits of acupuncture in a group setting at reduced cost. Therapy follows the same principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine for diagnosis and acupuncture point selection.

Each SAMA visit is self-pay and differs from the private acupuncture setting only by way of the environment makes available to more patients the same high quality therapeutic benefits as is offered through a private acupuncture appointment, but at a significantly reduced personal expense. Many patients enjoy the shared healing experience and support they receive from other patients in the group setting.

Patients attending shared appointments can receive treatment for the same conditions as in the private setting, including but not limited to: acute and chronic pain, stress, anxiety and depression; drug/tobacco withdrawal; migraines and severe headaches; allergy symptoms; nausea and vomiting; Insomnia and side effects due to chemotherapy and radiation.

Provider:

Jamie Starkey, LAc is Lead Acupuncturist with the Center for Integrative Medicine. Jamie earned a Bachelors degree in Biology, University of Toledo, and a Masters level degree in Acupuncture, American Institute of Alternative Medicine. She further enhanced her clinical training by completing a Clinical Internship at Guang AnMen Hospital in Beijing China, Acupuncture and Moxibustion Outpatient Department, an affiliate of the China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine. She is a Diplomate of Acupuncture, National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), and holds her acupuncture license from the Ohio State Medical Board. Additionally, she is a Level II Reiki Practitioner. Jamie has served as the Secretary of Ohio Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (OAAOM) 12/06-12/08 and a member Ohio Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (OAAOM) 12/05-Present.

She has a focus on women’s health, oncology, acute/chronic pain management, stress-related disorders and acupuncture clinical research.

Brief Description:

Shared Acupuncture Medical Appointment (SAMA) work the same way as private appointments, however patients sit upright in a recliner rather than lying on a table. In addition, they remain fully clothed with their shirt sleeves and pants rolled up to allow access to acupuncture points: ear, hands, legs, and scalp. Just as in a private appointment, fine needles are inserted into these various points for approximately 25-30 minutes to induce a therapeutic effect.

Patients attending shared acupuncture medical appointments can receive treatment for the same conditions as in the private setting, including but not limited to: acute and chronic pain, stress, anxiety and depression; drug/tobacco withdrawal; migraines and severe headaches; allergy symptoms; nausea and vomiting; Insomnia and side effects due to chemotherapy and radiation.

Patient population:

All established English speaking, hearing adults who are ambulatory and in possession of their faculties and do not have a highly contagious disease at the time of the group appointment. Conditions treated in the SAMA clinic include, but are not limited to: acute and chronic pain, stress, anxiety and depression, drug or tobacco withdrawal, migraines and severe headaches, allergy symptoms, nausea and vomiting, insomnia, side effects from chemotherapy and radiation treatment.

How interested patients can set up an appointment:

Prior to scheduling a shared appointment, a patient must schedule an initial private consultation with an acupuncturist during which the patient is evaluated and an appropriate treatment plan is formulated. The acupuncturist will then recommend the SAMA clinic, private appointments, or a combination of the two based on the complexity of the patient’s specific diagnosis and the techniques the acupuncturist feels will best address those needs. Advanced techniques for more complex conditions may require a private appointment. Call Center for Integrative Medicine at 216.986.HEAL (4325).

Contact Number
216.986.4325