News

BSA EMS Helping to Test for COVID-19 in Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities

As more cases of COVID-19 are being confirmed in the Texas Panhandle, the BSA Emergency Medical Services (EMS) department is doing their part to help one of our area’s at-risk populations. BSA EMS has been assigned by the Texas Emergency Medical Task Force to administer COVID-19 tests to residents in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. The BSA EMS team is helping administer the tests in response to an executive order issued by Governor Greg Abbott.

BSA Nationally Recognized with an ‘A’ for Patient Safety by Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade

Amarillo, TX, (April 30, 2020) – BSA Health System is the only hospital in the Texas Panhandle to be awarded an ‘A’ for patient safety from The Leapfrog Group’s Spring 2020 Hospital Safety Grade. This is the second consecutive time that BSA has received this national distinction, which recognizes achievements in protecting patients from harm and providing safer healthcare.

Using Technology to Connect with Loved Ones

With hospitals and health officials still strongly recommending wearing a mask and social distancing, fighting the coronavirus can be lonely and isolating— but it doesn’t have to be.

How to Avoid Heartburn

Heartburn occurs when stomach acid backs up into the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach (esophagus). It can feel like a burning pain in the chest that may worsen when bent over or lying down. Getting heartburn is common and the symptoms can usually be managed on your own, however, there are some instances when heartburn could be more serious.

The Effects of Sleep Deprivation

Getting better sleep helps you lead a better life. To achieve optimal health, prioritize your sleep schedule.

“Sleep is the single most effective thing we can do to reset our brain and body each day,” explained BSA Sleep Disorders Center Manager, Jeannie Pruitt.

When you don’t get enough quality sleep, problems can arise. Poor sleep habits can be detrimental to our overall health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention claims that insufficient sleep is a public health epidemic.

Wrapped in Love - How One BSA Employee Gives Back

Vickie Burns, a long-standing employee at BSA, spends her time off crocheting to give back to her co-workers. A self-taught crocheter, Burns, started crocheting blankets with the intention of giving one to her co-worker who was welcoming a new baby at BSA.

Her idea of making blankets to help fellow BSA employees celebrate happy occasions started last Autumn.

“The idea came from years of volunteering in our community and deciding to make a difference right here at BSA,” says Burns.

Finding New Hope After Weight Loss Surgery

In 2012, Billie Layland’s life changed. Her health began to decline, including a weight gain she could not get rid of.

“I had many trials and errors of losing weight,” says Layland. “It just seems like the weight comes on and it does not come off. Physically, I was not doing well. I needed to take better care of myself. I tried so many different things.”

This led Leyland to consider bariatric surgery. Her brother had gone through the procedure years before and had seen great success. Seeing his transformation inspired Leyland to make her own transformation.

12-year-old patient donates gaming system to BSA Pediatric Unit

BSA’s Pediatric Unit recently received a new gaming system that patients will be able to use during their stay, thanks to a donation from a former patient.

John Hare, 12, was admitted to BSA Hospital due to a severe allergic reaction in November of 2019, just a few days after the passing of his father.

BSA Partners with Meals on Wheels to Provide Hot Meals to Amarillo Seniors

For more than 20 years, BSA Health System has teamed up with Meals on Wheels, a local nonprofit, to prepare and deliver hot, nutritious meals to seniors in need in the Amarillo area.

“Meals on Wheels is one small way we give back to our community,” said BSA Patient Nutrition Manager, Leasa Dean.

The BSA Dining Center staff prepares between 135-145 meals each day for the nonprofit. Once the meals are prepared, Meals on Wheels volunteers help package and deliver food across Amarillo.

How to Get Back Into Your Wellness Routine after the Holidays

After the holidays, getting back into a wellness routine can be a challenge. BSA Registered Dietitian, Stephanie Collins, says holiday foods and events can knock us out of our healthy routines.

“After you indulge during the holidays, the cravings for high fat, sugar and salt are strong and it can be hard to resist,” said Collins.

Collins recommends skipping the diet and aiming toward maintaining healthy habits.