What's New at Auburn Family Medical Center!

Happy New Year! We hope the holiday season was uneventful and enjoyable. Here's a look at 2011 accomplishments and expectations for AFMC in 2012.

As you recall, last year we celebrated Dr. Keith Criddle's retirement while adding two new faces to our team - Dr. Paul Pumilia and Shannon Manning, Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner.
What exactly is Shannon (e.g. - what is a nurse practitioner)?

Shannon is a registered nurse who completed advanced education and training in the diagnosis and management of common medical conditions, including acute and chronic illnesses. In addition to obtaining her Master's degree, she passed a national certification and licensure examination. As a practicing ARNP, she provides high-quality, cost-effective care comparable to that provided by physicians and physician assistants. This includes:

Diagnosing and treating acute illnesses and injuries
Diagnosing, treating and monitoring chronic diseases (Diabetes, Hypertension, COPD, etc.)
Provides well-child care and comprehensive physical exams for adults
Ordering and interpreting diagnostic and laboratory studies
Prescribing medications
Performing simple, office-based procedures (suturing, casting, etc)
Collaborating with physicians and health care professionals as needed including referrals to physical/occupational therapy, massage, chiropractic care, acupuncture and other specialty fields

With all the changes in healthcare reform, AFMC is staying on top of the game. In 2011, we were among 1,200 family practice physicians nationwide who met HITECH Medicare criteria for Meaningful Use of an electronic medical record. This means improved quality of care for our patients!

Both Dr. Pumilia and Shannon are accepting new patients. Dr. Pumilia specializes in prevention and treatment of disease in the adult population. Shannon welcomes patients across the age range with special interest in pediatrics and women's health.
Our clinic continues to offer a web-based patient portal that gives you secure electronic access to schedule appointments, view lab tests and access trustworthy patient education databases. Please make sure to speak with the front desk at your next appointment so you can sign up. If already a member, click here to access Patient Portal.

What better way to start 2012 than making a goal to improve your health? Not sure where to turn for help getting started with diet and exercise changes? The Medical Home Gym at Outpatient Physical Therapy is a program designed to create a safe, positive environment for people to develop a tailored exercise program under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. This includes people with chronic disease states, including diabetes and heart failure, as well as those that suffer from obesity and generalized deconditioning. The program offers a nutritional component as well, with individual appointments, group classes and cooking demonstrations by a licensed nutritionist and certified diabetes educator. Set up an appointment with your provider today or call Outpatient Physical Therapy directly at 253-833-8766 for more information.