Health Works

Guest Meredith L. Hellstern, MD, Medical Director of Pediatrics, Wayne Memorial Community Health Centers discusses the critical role of vaccines in preventing disease and protecting public health, while addressing common concerns about safety and development. Learn about reliable websites for additional information. For more information on Wayne Memorial Community Health Centers, visit wmchc.net 

Community Relations Manager Carol Kneier talks dentistry and the legacy of one family of dentists in our community.

Community Relations Manager Carol Kenier talks to Dr Charles Sutton. We discuss what Interventional Radiology is and what it means to patients in our community. 

Join Wayne Memorial Hospital Community Relations Manager Carol Kneier as she talks with pediatrician Dr. Meredith Hellstern about the importance of UV protection and staying safe in the sun. Dr. Hellstern shares simple tips to help protect children and families from harmful sun exposure while enjoying the outdoors all summer long. For more health information, visit WMH.org

Join Wayne Memorial Hospital Community Relations Manager Carol Kneier as she sits down with Dr. Jennifer Rodriguez-Aiello, Chief of Surgery and robotic surgeon, to discuss the latest advances in robotic surgery at Wayne Memorial Hospital, including the state-of-the-art da Vinci 5 surgical system. Learn how robotic technology is enhancing precision, improving recovery, and expanding surgical options close to home. For more information, visit WMH.org or call 570-253-8121 (570-6161-WMH).

Join Community Relations manager Carol Kneier as she speaks with Melissa McWilliams from the Wayne County Drug & Alcohol Commission as she discusses the prevention programs available throughout our community and local schools. Learn about the Too Good program, which helps students build life skills, set positive goals, recognize and manage emotions, and develop the confidence to refuse peer pressure. Tune in to hear how these programs are helping young people make healthy choices and build a strong foundation for the future. For more information, please reach out to (570) 253-6022.

Join Wayne Memorial Hospital liaison Chrissy Phillips for a conversation with Community Relations Manager, Carol Kneier, about streamlining the referral process and strengthening connections between providers and patients. Learn how the liaison helps coordinate care, improve communication, and make referrals as seamless as possible. Chrissy also shares how Wayne Memorial works with local practices to ensure patients receive timely access to the specialty services they need. Learn how collaboration leads to better patient care. Wmh.org for information on any of our physicians. Call 570-6161-wmh for an appointment.

Wayne Memorial Hospital Community Relations Manager Carol Kneier spoke with Pat Mohn from Penn State Extension as part of the Tick Task Force to share helpful tips on tick safety, prevention, and staying healthy outdoors. Community members are encouraged to check for ticks after spending time outside and send ticks for testing at TickLab.org.

Join Doug Batacheski, Lieutenant with the Forest City Fire Department, for an important HealthWorks presentation on fireworks safety. As summer celebrations get underway, learn how to safely handle and use fireworks, protect your family and property, and reduce the risk of injuries and fires. This informative program will provide practical tips and expert guidance to help you enjoy holiday festivities responsibly and safely.

Join Wayne Memorial Hospital’s Nutrition Manager, Barbara Platt, for an informative HealthWorks program focused on staying healthy and safe during the summer months. Learn practical tips for food safety at picnics, barbecues, and outdoor gatherings, including how to properly store, prepare, and serve food to help prevent foodborne illness. Enjoy expert advice to keep your family safe while making the most of summer fun.

Guest Rebecca Rybak, coordinator Northeast Highway Safety Program discusses safety tips for bike riding, ATVs, car travel and more. Listen and learn about the new Paul Miller's law on hand free driving in PA. For more safety information visit: Home | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania , Traffic Injury Prevention Project (TIPP) – Traffic Safety for Children – Child Passenger Safety in PA or Prevent Childhood Injuries – Safe Kids Pennsylvania

Tracy Simon serves as the Protective Services Supervisor for the Pike County Area Agency on Aging, where she leads local efforts to investigate and resolve cases of elder abuse, neglect, exploitation, and abandonment for residents aged 60 and older. Operating out of the Blooming Grove Center, Simon oversees a dedicated team that provides 24/7 crisis intervention, conducts safety assessments, and coordinates emergency housing or legal protections to keep vulnerable adults safe. 

Pat Mohn is the chair of the Wayne County Tickborne Illness Task Force. She is a passionate local advocate who works tirelessly to raise awareness about Lyme and other tick-borne diseases. Partnering with community leaders, healthcare professionals, and organizations like Penn State Extension, Pat focuses on public education, prevention strategies, and accessible tick-testing resources to keep Pennsylvania families safe. Please visit ticklab.org if you have a tick you would like to be tested. 

Guest Todd Holmes, MD, medical director WMH emergency department discusses signs, symptoms and risk factors of strokes. WMH is a primary stroke center. Remember BE FAST, time is everything! Visit stroke.org 

Susie Kasper, Park Ranger NPS joins our yearly discussion about river water safety. Wearing a life jacket saves lives, Learn how to be safe this summer while enjoying the river. For more information visit. NPS.gov 

Guests Erin Carpenter, Outreach & Enrollment Coordinator, and Maria Diehl, PR Specialist, are sharing details about the upcoming UTC event happening Tuesday, May 19th, at Honesdale Central Park from 4 to 7 pm. Hosted by the WM Community Health Centers, this free interactive health and wellness event is open to the entire community. Listen for more details or visit Unity in the Community Health & Wellness Event - Wayne Memorial Community Health Centers

Guests Erin Carpenter, Outreach & Enrollment Coordinator, and Maria Diehl, PR Specialist, are sharing details about the upcoming UTC event happening Tuesday, May 19th, at Honesdale Central Park from 4 to 7 pm. Hosted by the WM Community Health Centers, this free interactive health and wellness event is open to the entire community. Listen for more details or visit Unity in the Community Health & Wellness Event - Wayne Memorial Community Health Centers

Guest Marie Onukiavage, Executive Director, National Alliance on Mental Illness of Northeast Region PA discusses programs, support groups and their upcoming Hawley Spring Run set for Saturday, May 23rd in Hawley. NAMI provides support, information, and advocacy to Lackawanna, Susquehanna, and Wayne counties. For more information visit Home - NAMI NEPA or call 570-342-1047.

Guest Meredith L. Hellstern, MD, Medical Director of Pediatrics, Wayne Memorial Community Health Centers discusses the critical role of vaccines in preventing disease and protecting public health, while addressing common concerns about safety and development. Learn about reliable websites for additional information. Visit wmchc.net 

Kathy Neenan, OT/L, from WMH Rehab Services, talks about how occupational therapy supports recovery after injuries, enhances daily routines, and helps people maintain their independence. OTs enrich lives through meaningful engagement, which is this year's theme. For more information visit wmh.org or call WMH Outpatient Rehab Services at 570-253-7322.

Jean Tuttle from the WMH Community Health Department invites you to a special women-only event on Friday, April 24th. Spend a lively and enjoyable day with a keynote speaker and sessions on hormone replacement therapy, yoga, spring crafts, personal safety, and digital health. Registration is required, so call 570-253-8990 or email [email protected]. Check out our Facebook page for more details.

Guest Anas Slaibi, M.D., PGY-1 in Family Medicine at Wayne Memorial Community Health Centers, talks about the benefits of yearly wellness visits. These visits are a proactive way to keep your health on track, prioritize prevention and early detection, and strengthen your connection with your primary care provider (PCP). Looking for a PCP, visit Home - Wayne Memorial Community Health Centers or PHYSICIAN DIRECTORY - Wayne Memorial Hospital

Guest Ericka Thaxton, medical advocate for Victim’s Intervention Program, (VIP) discusses services available for individuals, families and friends who are victims of domestic violence, and sexual assault. Learn about the upcoming Medical Advocacy Conference and other community events that support VIP’s mission. VIP’s services are always free, confidential and available 24/7. Call 570-253-4401 or visit Helping Victims of Violence in Wayne County & Pike County (vipempowers.org)

Sunshine Bryan, assistant program manager at the Wayne County YMCA, shares details about exciting events, programs and exercise challenges taking place at the Y. Along with free activities for community members, she highlights the benefits of membership. The YMCA, located at 501 Park Street in Honesdale, welcomes visitors to stop by or call 570-253-2083 for more information.

Michele Long, development director at Sustainable Energy Education and Development Support (SEEDS), emphasizes sustainable living and the simple choices we can make each day. Even small changes can save money and lead to a healthier lifestyle. Learn about upcoming events and visit seedsgroup.net for details and additional information.  

Guests Barbara Griggs-Pratt MA, LDN, RDN, manager of nutrition services WMH and Riley Skelton, Marywood University intern, our nutrition experts, discuss this year's theme, the importance of getting the right amount of protein, and including enough fiber in our daily meals. Tune in to discover how these nutrients help keep your energy up, support gut health and digestion, and keep you feeling full longer. Interested in speaking with a registered dietitian, call 570-253-8164.

Guest Amanda E. Marchegiani, MA, community relations coordinator Northeast Regional Cancer Institute highlights CASUAL Day, happening on March 26th, and the importance of colorectal cancer awareness.  Learn about screening guidelines and how our community can come together to support early detection to help save lives. For more information visit: cancer.org or call NRCI 570-904-8808.

Guest Amy McElroy, RN, cardiac rehab coordinator WMH, highlights how cardiac rehab helps patients safely regain strength, confidence, and heart health after a cardiac event or procedure. Listen and learn how this medically supervised program supports recovery through exercise, education and lifestyle changes. For more information call 570-252-8253 or visit wmh.org. 

Project SEARCH - Guests James Giacobbe, a skills instructor, and Taylor Ellis, an instructor, talk about how the program works, while interns Bryce Conrad and Ethan Rodriquez share their experiences and career goals. WMH is excited to host this program and support the upcoming reverse job fair on Wednesday, March 4th, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. To learn more about Project SEARCH, visit their site or call 570-253-8292.

Leslie Petroff, a health educator with the NE PA Area Health Education Center (AHEC), shares details about a free program that provides guidance, support, and proven strategies to help people quit tobacco. To sign up for classes or learn more, check out the NEPA AHEC ...Freedom From Smoking Program or call 570-209-9644

Guest Dr. Muhammad Dogar, interventional cardiologist, WM Physician Specialty Clinic talks about protecting your heart, recognizing symptoms, and understanding today's minimally invasive treatment options. It's an important conversation about prevention, early detection and action. For more information on WM Physician Specialties visit wmh.org or call 570-6161-WMH.

Angela Reeves, RN and community health nurse with the PA Department of Health at the Wayne County State Health Center in Honesdale, shares important winter weather safety tips, covering emergency preparedness, cold-weather health risks, and safe travel during snow and ice. For more information visit: Department of Health | Department of Health | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or call 570-253-7141.

Featuring Barbara Griggs-Pratt, MA, RDN, LDN, clinical nutrition manager at WMH, this episode dives into how simple, everyday nutrition decisions can help strengthen your body’s natural defenses. Discover practical, easy tips for adding immune-boosting foods to your diet to support better overall health. Visit Wayne Memorial Hospital Facebook page for upcoming programs on this topic or call WMH Nutrition Services 570-253-8164.

Wayne County Farms to Families welcomes guests David Hartung, WC Human Services integrated services specialist, and Clarissa Wimmers, WC pantry system coordinator, who share how these funds support both families and local farmers involved in the pantry system. Discover their mission and hear about upcoming fundraisers aimed at keeping these funds sustainable. For more information, visit Wayne County Farms to Families Fund | Local Farms, Local Impact or call 570-253-4262, ext. 0.

Erika Collins, an HR recruiter with the WMH Human Resources Department, shares details about the ongoing campaign to hire nurse aides and phlebotomists. Tune in to discover both clinical and non-clinical opportunities available at Wayne Memorial Hospital. Come to walk-in Wednesday. For more details visit Working at WMH | Hospital Jobs | Honesdale PA | Wayne Memorial Hospital or call Erika Collins at 570-251-6539

Wayne Memorial Community Health Centers’ guest CEO, Terri Lacey, RN, recapped 2025 highlights, including the launch of new electronic medical records, added services and expansion in two pediatric offices, and the debut of Behavioral Health - Integration of Care services. For 2026, plans are in motion for a mobile school-based health center, expanded pediatric services, and a new Women’s Health clinic in Pike County. For more information, visit them on Facebook or at www.wmchc.net.

Guest James Pettinato, BSN, MHSA, CCRN-K, CEO of Wayne Memorial Hospital, shares updates with the community on hospital services, initiatives, and future plans. The conversation highlights the hospital’s commitment to providing quality care and its dedication to serving the community. For more information visit: www.wmh.org Physician specialty services call 570-6161-WMH.

Guest Derek Williams, mayor of Honesdale, chair of the Wayne Tomorrow! Transportation Task Force, and community engagement manager for the Wayne County Community Foundation, joins us for an engaging discussion on the local business accessibility project, the Wayne County transportation system, and goals of the WT! Transportation TF. Listen and learn about the free apps to help locate businesses with wheelchair accessibility in Honesdale. For more information visit: Transportation — Wayne Tomorrow!  

Guests John Nebzydoski, Director of Behavioral Health at WCOBDP&EI, and Victoria Toomey, MBA, Outreach Coordinator at the Center for Community Resources (CCR), talk about the grand opening of the new regional crisis center. Hear about the behavioral and mental health services available through CCR. For help anytime, call 1-833-557-3224, text 63288, or visit ccrinfo.org.

Guest Larry Stich, health insurance agent, Meagher Insurance & Financial Service, LLC, joins us for an informative radio show focused on helping listeners navigate Medicare. Tune in as we break down the Medicare basic - how to apply, what the different parts mean, and how to make informed decisions on your Medicare options. Visit medicare.gov or call Larry at 570-253-0466 for information. 

Dr. Thomas Allardyce from WMH Orthopaedics shares practical advice on avoiding falls and emphasizes the value of overall health and wellness for keeping joints strong. Tune in to learn when it’s time to consult an orthopaedic specialist for an evaluation. To schedule an appointment, call 570-647-0001 or visit wmh.org for details.

Auxiliary members Joyce Malicky and Diane Popovich, RN discusses this yearly cherished tradition that honors our loved ones. With a $5 donation per name, your loved one will be remembered this holiday season when the lights in front of WMH light up. In addition, a Memory Book will be displayed in the lobby of WMH for everyone to view. Deadline to submit a loved one's name is November 28th, visit wmh.org for a coupon or call 570-253-8422. Love-Lites-coupon-2025.pdf

Honesdale High School Health Occupation students Olivia, Caitlin, Bridget, Maddie and Abby help bring awareness of rare genetic diseases by organizing a Turkey Trot on Sunday, November 23rd at HHS. Listen and learn details about upcoming 5K walk/run. Visit Honesdale High School Facebook page or call Becca Park at 570-253-2046 ext. 1407 for more information.

Guest Samir Pancholy, MD, FAHA, FACC, FFCHAI, interventional cardiologist at WM Physician Specialty Clinic discusses heart health, prevention, and treatment options in cardiovascular care. Learn how early detection and lifestyle choices can make a life-saving difference. For more information visit wmh.org or call 570-6161-WMH (964).

Guest Jean Tuttle, WMH community relations department, highlights the in-school walking program which is open to community members. A partnership with our 4 local school districts, providing a safe, warm and convenient way to stay active during the winter months. Listen and learn about the benefits of walking and how to register.  Call Jean at 570-253-8990 or visit Wayne Memorial In-School Winter Walking Program for an application. 

WMH Domestic Violence Awareness

Guest Angela Reeves, RN, volunteer for the Alzheimer's Association, shares important facts about Alzheimer's and dementia as well as early warning signs. The Alzheimer's support group meets the first Tuesday of every month at WMH starting at 5:30 pm. This group provides a safe and welcoming space that offers compassion, understanding, and valuable resources for care givers. For more information call Carol Kneier, WMH Community Relations at 570-253-8422, zoom option is also available. 

Guest Meredith Hellstern, MD, medical director WMCHC Pediatric Services explores what autism is and how diagnostic criteria has changed over the years. Dr. Hellstern also discusses evidence-based research and talks briefly about vaccines. For more information visit www.wmchc.net or call 570-253-8177.

Guest Tuhin Gupta, MD, board certified psychiatrist and medical director of Integration of Care (IOC) highlights how mental health and physical health go hand in hand.  This service is provided at some WMCHC primary care offices and available for all WMCHC patients. Listen and learn how this team approach is helping to improve mental health care access and real time assessments for patients experiencing acute mental health stressors. To establish care with the WHCHC, visit Wayne Memorial Community Health Centers | Wayne Memorial Hospital 

Guest Brandon Stone, DPT, WMH Rehab Department, joins us as we explore the important role PT plays in restoring function, enhancing mobility, and improving quality of life.  Learn about strategies and tips for preventing falls and staying safe. Visit Rehabilitation Therapies | Inpatient, Outpatient Rehabilitation | Wayne Memorial Hospital or call 570-253-7322 for more information.