September 20, 2018
The issue of suicide is a very difficult and concerning topic to address – and, unfortunately, it is on
the rise. In fact, a recent survey from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows
suicide rates increasing by 25 percent over nearly two decades through the end of 2016. Data from
the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention further underscores the importance and urgency of
raising awareness of suicide, as suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the U.S. – with nearly
45,000 Americans taking their own lives each year.
September 20, 2018
Prostate cancer is a condition often heard about, but perhaps seldom fully understood. In recognition
of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, we asked Gregory S. Willis, M.D. a Board Certified Radiation
Oncologiest at Memorial Medical Center, to answer some of the most frequently asked questions
concerning this common form of cancer.
September 20, 2018
Cholesterol. You probably know that it’s an important factor when it comes to your overall health
and wellness, but what is it, exactly? This month marks National Cholesterol Education Month,
making it a perfect time to refresh our knowledge on the ins and outs of cholesterol and understand
how it affects your health.
August 28, 2018
You have often heard me use the expression, “You are the company you keep.” You will see in this month’s newsletter that we are welcoming several new physicians and two key new members of our leadership team. In the almost five years that I have had the privilege of leading this organization, we have placed the highest priority on Our Vision: To be a place where people choose to come for healthcare, physicians want to practice, and employees want to work.
July 17, 2018
It is well-known that there is a significant shortage of Primary Care physicians in New Mexico. To help address that issue, Memorial opened up a Family Medicine Residency Program more than 20 years ago. For the majority of those years, Dr. John Andazola has been the Medical Director of the Southern New Mexico Family Medicine Residency Program. The Residency boasts a 70% rate for graduates practicing in New Mexico. Dr. Andazola has been a highly successful and inspiring leader, recognized with numerous awards across the country for his work to address population health issues and access to health for underserved populations, among others. This month, LifePoint Health selected Dr. Andazola the LifePoint Physician Leader of the Year out of all the physicians at our 71-hospital corporation. We are incredibly proud to have Dr. John
Andazola…one of the nation’s best…guiding and teaching the family physicians of the future right here at Memorial!
July 6, 2018
The pools are splashing. Campgrounds and ball fields are hopping. And the highways are filled with families heading out to spend quality time at beaches, mountains and other fun destinations across the country. All of this outdoor activity can only mean one thing – summer has officially arrived! And while now can be the perfect time to enjoy fun in the sun and fill up on vitamin D, it’s important to take the proper precautions against getting overheated as the temperatures climb this time of year.
July 6, 2018
The American Cancer Society (ACS) has recently released updated guidelines that lower the recommended age for colon cancer screening. According to the new ACS recommendations, those at average risk for colon cancer should begin screening at age 45 instead of 50. The new guidelines were put in place following a major data review that showed a rising rate of colon cancer in adults younger than 50.
June 29, 2018
It was an incredible honor and heartwarming experience to share the Ribbon Cutting at our new Memorial Cancer Center with a room filled with more than 100 guests. In the audience were survivors and their families, Memorial staff, members of the Press, the Chambers, and public, and dignitaries including Governor Martinez and Dr. Cheryl Willman, of UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center. So many of our guests expressed gratitude for the investment we have made in nationally accredited cancer care – right here at home. To make the front page of both local newspapers is quite an honor, and speaks to the importance of this Cancer Center in making our southern New Mexico communities healthier.
May 23, 2018
We are proud of the fact that Memorial has the most comprehensive cancer program
in southern New Mexico, right here in Las Cruces. When faced with a cancer diagnosis,
patients don’t have to leave home to receive the highest standard of cancer care.
Memorial Cancer Center has provided care for more than 50,000 patients in our region
for more than 20 years. We recently completed a year-long remodel and expansion
with more than 25,000 square feet dedicated solely to cancer care.
May 9, 2018
Each year, National Hospital Week provides an opportunity to recognize and thank the more than 5 million healthcare professionals who provide safe, high-quality healthcare in their communities. On May 6-12, Memorial Medical Center will join the American Hospital Association in celebrating these “Everyday Heroes” for their dedication, compassion, and commitment to excellence.
