Tag Archive for: #mariaparhamhealth

Maria Parham Health to Illuminate Campus in Celebration of 100 Years of Care

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Community Invited to a Festive Evening of Lights, Performances, and Holiday Cheer on December 4

Maria Parham Health is proud to announce a special community celebration in honor of its 100th anniversary of providing healthcare to Henderson, Vance County, and surrounding areas. On December 4, the hospital will host an evening of family-friendly festivities as it illuminates its campus for the first time, marking a century of hope, healing, and service.

The event will take place from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in front of the hospital and will feature:

  • The lighting of Maria Parham Health’s first outdoor Christmas tree
  • 100 glowing luminaries honoring loved ones from across the region
  • Performances by talented young local artists
  • Inspiring messages from area clergy
  • Hot cocoa and cookies for all attendees
  • A visit from Santa Claus, with parents invited to bring cameras for photos

Community members, families, and former patients are warmly encouraged to attend and create a new holiday tradition together on the campus of Maria Parham Health. The celebration also invites former patients to reflect on and celebrate their own journeys of healing.

“As we mark 100 years of caring for this community, we wanted to create a celebration that reflects the warmth, resilience, and togetherness that define Henderson and Vance County,” said Bert Beard, CEO of Maria Parham Health. “This event is our way of saying thank you to every patient, family, staff member, and neighbor who has been part of our story. We hope everyone will join us as we light up our campus and celebrate a century of hope and healing.”

Community members wishing to honor a loved one with a luminary may reserve one free of charge by emailing donna.young@lpnt.net.

Maria Parham Health will also be accepting canned food donations for ACTS (Area Christians Together in Service) during the event.

— Press Release from MPH and Donna Young

(MPH is our advertising client on air and online.  The information and audio available here is not a paid ad.)

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The Local Skinny! MPH Gets C.O. For Phase Two Of Emergency Dept. Renovation

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– Courtesy of Maria Parham Health 

Maria Parham Health has received a Certificate of Occupancy for Phase Two of its Emergency Department renovation on the Henderson campus, marking a significant milestone in the hospital’s ongoing efforts to expand access to high-quality care—particularly for patients facing behavioral health challenges in Henderson and Vance County.

Construction on Phase Two began in September 2025 and was designed to better serve vulnerable populations across the region. The project focuses on creating dedicated spaces within the Emergency Department to meet the growing need for behavioral and mental health services, while also improving patient safety, privacy, and dignity.

“This milestone represents more than just the completion of a construction phase—it reflects our deep commitment to caring for every patient who comes through our doors,” said Bert Beard, CEO of Maria Parham Health. “By expanding and modernizing our Emergency Department, we’re ensuring that our community has access to compassionate, comprehensive care, especially for those in crisis who need it most.”

Key improvements include purpose-built behavioral health treatment areas designed with safety and comfort in mind, as well as operational enhancements that will streamline patient flow and support staff well-being.

The renovation was made possible through funding secured in October 2023 as part of a collaborative initiative involving the Vance County District Attorney’s Office, Granville Vance Public Health, the Vance County Board of Commissioners, and the North Carolina General Assembly. This investment underscores a shared regional commitment to strengthening mental health care infrastructure and improving outcomes for patients across the area.

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‘Tricky’ Weather Prompts Maria Parham Health To Send ‘Trunk Or Treat’ Indoors

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Maria Parham Health’s Trunk or Treat event will still take place on Tuesday, Oct. 28, but, thanks to rainy weather predicted for the next few days, organizers have decided to send the costumed kiddos inside to get their goodies.

This is the fifth year for the event, but it’ll be the first time that it’s not a drive-thru affair. The trick-or-treating will be from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., said MPH Public Information Officer Donna Young. Enter through the Main Lobby of the hospital and follow a clearly marked loop that will lead you out through the doors of the Heart & Vascular department.

All trick-or-treaters must be accompanied by an adult, Young noted. “We can’t wait to see all your creative costumes and smiles – rain or shine, the fun goes on inside!” she said.

For more information, please contact Donna Young at donna.young@lpnt.net.

Maria Parham Health’s State-Of-The-Art Radiation Oncology Dept. Elevates Cancer Care

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— information courtesy of Maria Parham Health Public Information Officer Donna Young

Maria Parham Health celebrated the reopening of its Radiation Oncology Department on Oct. 10, marking the culmination of several months of renovations and significant technology upgrades aimed at elevating cancer care in the region. The event welcomed community members, hospital staff and local leaders to tour the updated facility, which now houses a state-of-the-art linear accelerator and offers expanded treatment options including Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy.

The upgraded linear accelerator represents the latest advancement in external beam radiation therapy, delivering high-energy X-rays or electrons with exceptional precision to target cancerous tumors while preserving healthy surrounding tissue. The new technology’s ability to rotate around the patient and integrate advanced imaging sets a new standard for patient care and comfort in radiation oncology.

“Bringing this level of technology to Maria Parham Health is a major step forward for our patients and our community,” said Bert Beard, CEO of Maria Parham Health. “We are proud to now offer cutting-edge treatments like SBRT, which not only improves outcomes but also reduces treatment time and enhances quality of life for our patients. This reopening represents our continued commitment to innovation, excellence, and compassionate care.”

As a Duke LifePoint hospital, Maria Parham Health benefits from its affiliation with Duke Health, ensuring that patients have access to the same high-quality, evidence-based cancer care  found at larger academic centers—delivered conveniently close to home by trusted local  providers.

SBRT is a highly specialized form of radiation therapy that allows for the delivery of larger doses of radiation over fewer sessions—typically between one and five—compared to traditional therapy that may require daily treatments for several weeks. The precision of SBRT is made possible through advanced imaging and targeting technologies, helping to spare healthy tissue and reduce side effects.

Guests at the reopening also had the opportunity to meet Dr. Ryan Fecteau, MD, PhD, Maria Parham Health’s new Radiation Oncologist. Fecteau brings a wealth of clinical expertise and a compassionate, patient-centered approach to the team, further enhancing the cancer care  services available to patients in the region.

The celebration took place in a setting adorned in pink, honoring Breast Cancer Awareness Month and reaffirming the hospital’s dedication to comprehensive, community-based cancer care.

 

Maria Parham Health ‘Trunk Or Treat’ Oct. 28

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This is the fifth year that Maria Parham Health is hosting its Trunk or Treat for the community, but it’s the first time that costumed kiddos will get to walk through instead of riding through in vehicles.

Hospital organizers say they’re looking forward to being able to dial up the fun by interacting more closely with trick-or-treaters from the community during the event, which is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, Oct. 28 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Medical Plaza, 120 Charles Rollins Rd.

Originally launched as a drive-through in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Trunk or Treat  provided a safe, CDC-compliant way for children and families to celebrate Halloween. Trick-or treaters stayed in their vehicles while receiving candy from costumed staff and volunteers  stationed along a designated route.

“With the significant decrease in COVID cases in our area, we felt it was time to bring back that face-to-face community spirit,” said Donna Young, public information officer for Maria Parham  Health. “We’re excited to welcome families back in a more interactive and festive setting.”

This year, guests will park in the gravel lot behind the hospital and walk down to the Medical  Plaza at 120 Charles Rollins Rd., where the main event will take place. Hospital staff will decorate their vehicles and don creative costumes to hand out candy to trick-or-treaters. In addition, community organizations are invited to join in by decorating their own vehicles and passing out treats.

Adding to the fun, live music will be provided by local band Man Up, who will entertain guests with spooky rock tunes that blend Halloween flair with a youthful energy.

The event promises to be a safe, family-friendly celebration full of treats, laughter, and community engagement — a tradition that continues to grow year after year.

For more information or to register your organization to participate, please contact Donna Young  at donna.young@lpnt.net.

Maria Parham Cancer Center Welcomes Radiation Oncologist Dr. Ryan Fecteau

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   — information courtesy of Maria Parham Health

Maria Parham Health announces the addition of Dr. Ryan Fecteau, MD, PhD, as the newest Radiation Oncologist at the Maria Parham Cancer Center. Fecteau brings extensive clinical training and a patient-centered philosophy to the Cancer Center, where he will specialize in the treatment of genitourinary cancers, including prostate and bladder cancer.

Fecteau earned both his MD (2017) and PhD (2015) from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Ohio. He completed his residency training in Radiation Oncology at two of the nation’s most prestigious institutions: New York Presbyterian (2018–2021) and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (2021–2022) in New York City.

With a deep clinical interest in research and innovation, Fecteau has been actively involved in national clinical trials to treat prostate cancer and renal cell carcinoma.

Fecteau says his motivation for pursuing radiation oncology stems from the opportunity to use cutting-edge technology to both cure cancer and improve patients’ quality of life.

“When I meet someone for a consult, I like to gain an understanding of who they are and where they are coming from so that we can come up with a management plan that aligns with their values,” he said. “I believe one of the most important aspects of my job is education — ensuring that every patient fully understands the treatment options available so they can feel confident about their decisions.”

Outside of his clinical practice, Fecteau enjoys spending time with his family, cooking, traveling, watching Clemson football and exploring the Durham food scene.

“Dr. Fecteau’s exceptional training, compassionate approach, and commitment to innovation make him an outstanding addition to our team,” said Bert Beard, CEO of Maria Parham Health.  “His arrival enhances our ability to provide advanced, patient-centered cancer care right here in Henderson, and we are excited to welcome him to our community.”

Patients can schedule consultations with Dr. Fecteau by contacting the Maria Parham Cancer Center directly at 252.436.1148.

Maria Parham Health Radiation Oncology Suite Reopens With State-Of-The-Art Technology

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– information courtesy of Maria Parham Health Public Information Officer Donna Young

The community is invited to come out and take a look at the newly renovated and updated Radiation Oncology Suite at Maria Parham Hospital on Thursday, Oct. 9.

The re-opening celebration will take place from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the MPH Cancer Center, according to information from MPH Public Information Officer Donna Young.

Attendees should enter through the hospital’s Cancer Center entrance.

After several months of renovation and equipment upgrades, the department is now home to a new, state-of-the-art linear accelerator – LINAC for short – an advanced piece of medical technology that delivers external beam radiation therapy with precision and care. This powerful machine uses high-frequency electromagnetic fields to create a high-energy beam of electrons, or X-rays, to target and treat cancerous tumors, all while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. LINAC is able to rotate around the patient and utilize advanced imaging, which provides the highest standard in modern radiation treatment.

With this new addition, Maria Parham will also have the new capability to do stereotactic body radiation therapy, known as SBRT in the medical field. SBRT is a type of external beam radiation therapy that delivers high doses of radiation to a tumor in fewer sessions (typically 1-5), compared to conventional radiation therapy which may require weeks of treatment. It uses advanced imaging and targeting technologies to minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

In addition to showcasing the upgraded facility and technology, the event will also serve as an opportunity for guests to meet Dr. Ryan Fecteau, MD, PhD, Maria Parham Health’s new Radiation Oncologist.

“We are incredibly proud to offer this advanced technology to our patients and to continue raising the bar for cancer care in our region,” said Kimberly Smith, director of The Cancer Center at Maria Parham Health. “This event is not only a celebration of innovation but of our ongoing commitment to providing the highest quality care close to home.”

Maria Parham Health Emergency Department Renovation Complete

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— information courtesy of Donna Young, Maria Parham Health Public Information Officer

Maria Parham Health has received a Certificate of Occupancy for its Emergency Department renovation on the Henderson campus, marking a major milestone in the hospital’s ongoing efforts to expand access to high-quality care—especially for patients facing behavioral health challenges in Vance and Franklin counties.

Construction on the renovation began Mar. 17, 2025. The project was designed to better serve vulnerable populations in the region, with particular emphasis on creating dedicated spaces within the Emergency Department to meet the growing need for behavioral and mental health services.

“These renovations reflect our unwavering commitment to improving the way we care for every patient who walks through our doors—especially those navigating mental and behavioral health issues,” said Bert Beard, CEO of Maria Parham Health. “We are incredibly grateful for the community support and funding that made this project possible, and we look forward to opening these new spaces to better serve our neighbors.”

Key improvements include the creation of dedicated, purpose-built areas within the Emergency Department that promote safety, privacy, and dignity for behavioral health patients. The enhancements are also expected to boost operational efficiency and support staff well-being.

To ensure continuous care during construction, temporary modifications were made to the hospital’s main lobby, which have served as a substitute intake, registration, and emergency care area for patients arriving via personal vehicle. These temporary areas have allowed for uninterrupted triage, waiting, and registration services throughout the renovation period.

With the Certificate of Occupancy now in hand, hospital staff began final preparations on Aug. 20 to bring the renovated Emergency Department online. The space opened to patients at 11 a.m. on Aug. 20, 2025.

The project was made possible by funding secured in October 2023 through a collaborative initiative involving the Vance County District Attorney’s Office, Granville Vance Public Health, the Vance County Board of Commissioners, and the North Carolina General Assembly. The investment demonstrates a shared regional commitment to strengthening mental health care infrastructure and improving outcomes for patients across the area.

Maria Parham Health will continue to provide renovation updates through its official Facebook page and local media outlets-

Maria Parham Health Adds SmartRobotics Surgical System To Assist With Orthopedic Surgeries

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— courtesy of Maria Parham Health Public Information Officer Donna Young

Maria Parham Health announces the addition to its complement of orthopedic care the Mako SmartRobotics™ surgical system, a cutting-edge innovation now available to qualified patients undergoing joint replacement procedures.

This advanced technology brings new levels of precision, personalization and potential recovery benefits to patients in north-central North Carolina and surrounding communities, according to information from Donna Young, MPH public information officer.

The Mako system combines 3D CT-based preoperative planning with robotic-arm assisted technology, which allows surgeons to create a highly personalized surgical plan and execute it with unmatched precision. During surgery, the Mako robotic arm helps the surgeon stay within the planned boundaries and make more accurate bone cuts, which may result in better outcomes and longer-lasting results for patients.

“This is a major step forward in the evolution of orthopedic care at Maria Parham,” said Bert Beard, CEO of Maria Parham Health. “The Mako robotic-arm system allows our skilled surgical team to perform joint replacements with an unprecedented level of accuracy. Patients will benefit from personalized care, faster recovery times, and potentially longer-lasting results. We are excited to bring this leading-edge technology to our community.”

The system can create a 3-D model of the patient’s joint to help the surgeon before the operation takes place, allowing for optimal implant fit and alignment. During surgery the robotic arm provides real-time feedback, aiding the surgeon in precise implant placement

Smaller incisions, less tissue damage and reduced blood loss often results in shorter hospital stays and quicker recovery times and precision placement of implants may reduce wear and the likelihood of repeat surgeries.

Learn more at a free Lunch & Learn session with orthopedic surgeon Dr. Darius Divina, DO, on Monday, Aug. 11 from 12 noon to 1:30 p.m..

Registration is required for the event and space is limited. Reserve your seat today at https://www.mariaparham.com/events/2025-08-11/lunch-learn

(This news item was originally posted July 24, 2025. This is not a paid ad.)

Maria Parham Health Earns American Heart Association Award For Commitment To Stroke Care

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– Information courtesy of Maria Parham Health Public Information Officer Donna Young

Maria Parham Health has received recognition from the American Heart Association for its commitment to high-quality stroke care, earning the Get With The Guidelines® – Stroke Gold Plus quality achievement award. The award is given for dedication to following evidence-based clinical guidelines that improve patient outcomes for stroke care.

Maria Parham Health also received the Target: StrokeSM Honor Roll Elite award, which recognizes hospitals that meet specific benchmarks to reduce the time between a stroke patient’s arrival and the administration of clot-busting medication, known as thrombolytic therapy. These efforts are critical in saving lives and reducing the long-term impact of strokes.

“Maria Parham Health is committed to improving patient care by adhering to the latest treatment guidelines,” said Bert Beard, chief executive officer of Maria Parham Health. “Get With The Guidelines makes it easier for our teams to apply proven strategies every day, which studies show can help patients recover better. The end goal is to ensure more people in Vance County and the surrounding communities can experience longer, healthier lives.”

Stroke is the fifth-leading cause of death and a major cause of long-term disability in the United States. The American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® – Stroke program aims to ensure that patients receive care aligned with the most current evidence-based treatment practices.

“We are incredibly pleased to recognize Maria Parham Health for its commitment to caring for patients with stroke,” said Dr. Steven Messe, volunteer chair of the American Heart Association Stroke System of Care Advisory Group. “Participation in Get With The Guidelines is associated with improved outcomes, fewer hospital readmissions and reduced mortality rates — a benefit to patients, families and the health care system as a whole.”

Hospitals earn recognition through the program by demonstrating consistent adherence to performance measures, including timely diagnosis and treatment, and by educating patients and families on managing health post-discharge to aid in recovery and prevent recurrence.