By Christine Fernando
Franciscan Health physician Sachin Mehta will stop by the Carmel Clay Public Library this week to present information about a trending health topic as part of the Stethoscope Series.
Mehta will discuss the symptoms, long-term problems and recovery plans for concussions as well as the innovative treatments Franciscan Health is using to combat them. The discussion will take place from 7 to 8 p.m. Aug. 17 at the library, 55 4th Ave. SE. Online registration is preferred at carmel.lib.in.us.
Franciscan Health media manager Joe Stuteville said the hospital decided to continue the series after the success of last year’s series.
Stuteville said organizers chose the topic of concussions by looking at medical trends and considering what the public cares about and should know.
“Concussions are such a big topic that doesn’t just relate to the NFL,” he said. “It’s a concern for any form of athletics or contact sport.”
Physicians invited to speak, including Mehta, who specializes in physical medicine and rehabilitation, are experts in the field. Stuteville said they speak in terms anyone can understand.
“It’s always important to develop that relationship between a physician and patient through clear communication,” Stuteville said. “Physicians really need to be able to explain complex things in a compassionate way.”
Stuteville said he wants the series to strengthen the relationship between Franciscan Health and the public it serves.
“I think it’s important for hospitals to immerse themselves in the community,” he said. “We want to become a part of the community, become a good neighbor.”
But above all, he wants attendees to learn useful information.
“If they leave with a nugget or two or something they didn’t know before, we’ve succeeded, and they’ve succeeded,” he said.
