Memorial Hermann Acquires Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic

Memorial Hermann Acquires Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic

Purchase Strengthens Hospital’s Orthopedic Presence in southwest and west corridors

HOUSTON, January 4, 2012

– Memorial Hermann has acquired Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic (RBJ) in a move that further strengthens the organization’s orthopedic network and adds additional specialty clinics to its growing roster, as well as builds on the hospital’s groundbreaking clinical integration initiative to bring medical staff physicians together in a common commitment to quality care and accountability.

 ”As a hospital system, we are preparing for the onset of healthcare reform,” said Dan Wolterman, President and CEO of Memorial Hermann. “A critical component of that process is identifying physician groups that align with Memorial Hermann’s culture of emphasizing safety and providing the high quality care that our patients have come to expect.

 ”Memorial Hermann Medical Group has been strategically leading the way in identifying talented, respected and clinically-integrated physician groups like Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic,” Wolterman continued. “As a result, MHMG is experiencing tremendous growth. We are pleased to have a high-caliber group such as RBJ join the Memorial Hermann family. It represents a win-win for both Memorial Hermann and our patients.”

 RBJ, one of the most highly-regarded orthopedic groups in the Houston region, offers an extensive range of orthopedic specialties such as general orthopedics and sports medicine, pediatric orthopedics, spine surgery, hand and wrist and foot and ankle replacement, pain management, and rehabilitation. The group is comprised of physicians nationally known for contributing to advances in orthopedic medicine through published articles, research studies and innovative new treatments.

 ”This is a mutually-beneficial partnership,” said Juliet Breeze, M.D., CEO of RBJ. “We will bring our extensive clinical expertise and knowledge of orthopedic medicine to Memorial Hermann and help to grow its orthopedic presence, particularly in the southwest region near its Sugar Land and Southwest hospitals. Moreover, we are aligning with one of the most innovative and clinically-integrated healthcare systems in the country. Our network of doctors and patients will benefit greatly being teamed with a system that is so forward-looking when it comes to medicine and quality care.”

 More than 15 physicians at the newly named clinics – Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic at Memorial Hermann – will align with other Memorial Hermann affiliated physician groups like UTHealth’s Department of Orthopedic Surgery to deliver safe, high-quality and results-driven orthopedic care to patients living in and around Richmond, Katy and Sugar Land.

 ”Our patients will receive the same personal and progressive care they’ve come to expect from their trusted physicians and clinical staff,” added Dr. Breeze.

 RBJ is already a member of the Memorial Hermann Information Exchange (MHiE), an innovative program that significantly improves transitions of care, safety and quality by putting patient health data at the fingertips of authorized caregivers. MHiE, the first health information exchange of its kind in Houston, utilizes a secure, encrypted electronic network to integrate and house patients’ digital medical records so they are easily accessible to its members.

Stay Hydrated!

The summer heat is here and with a vengeance! Athletically active people are aware that keeping properly hydrated is important. It is vital that fluids chosen to maintain and replenish water lost during excretion keep you in balance. Let’s start with some choices and how these can benefit you.

Water is the number one option. People at any age and level of activity should maintain hydration using water. This is an easy choice due to availability. There are so many convenient ways to have water at your fingertips. Eco friendly containers, backpack-style camel packs, waist belt holders, and the ever present plastic water bottle! If you drink only when thirsty, you are already behind in rehydration.

Sports drinks are an option during exercise and activity in the heat. These are used to replace electrolytes lost in sweat. Some experts disagree as to the benefits of sports drinks. It is recommended that these products be used in conjunction with water as one method to rehydrate.

A word about caffeine and the hot weather. Remember that caffeine in a diuretic and will draw water out of the body. That visit to your local coffee shop should be followed up with water before any heat-related activity. Iced tea is refreshing but also contains caffeine.

A quick check regarding the level of hydration is to observe the color of your urine. If it is clear, chances you are at a proper level but if it is dark yellow you may need to increase your fluid intake. As with any suggestions regarding your health, please seek medical advice if you have any concerns or questions.

Physical activity is important to lifelong health. Exercising, working, or relaxing in the heat should be done in moderation and safety. Staying hydrated is a major part of good health.

Enjoy!

Mike Vara, M.ED., L.A.T., A.T.C