The highly anticipated and valiantly fought for dialysis center is in the home stretch of the planning phase. During November's regularly scheduled Macon County Board of Commissioners' meeting, Commissioner Ronnie Beale updated the board and informed them that the ground breaking for the new facility could be held as early as the first week in January.

“With lease negotiations nearly complete, the people of Macon County will be able to receive the life-saving treatment so many desperately need right here at home within a year,” said Beale. “This has been a long process, but I think in the end, it will be the best thing we could possible do for the people of the community.”

Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of death from cancer. Since 1993 the incidence of pancreatic cancer has remained stable in men while increasing slightly in women reflecting smoking trends in men and women. The typical patient with newly diagnosed cancer of the pancreas is 63 years old.

Factors that increase the risk of pancreatic cancer include smoking, diabetes and inflammation of the pancreas. The incidence of pancreatic cancer is higher among those who eat red meat and lower among those who eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. An inherited tendency to develop pancreatic cancer accounts for ten percent of cases. Some families with an inherited risk for developing pancreatic cancer have an increased risk for developing other types of cancer as well.

Angel Medical Center recently celebrated National Volunteer Week by recognizing the many contributions that these important individuals make, year-round to the hospital.

“Our volunteers work in virtually every department in the hospital,” said Jennifer Hollifield, director of Volunteers for Angel Medical Center. “From hospice and Same Day Surgery to our gift and thrift shops, their countless hours of service are an integral part of our mission to provide quality healthcare to the community.”

Mission Health announces the inaugural visit of its Regional Simulation and Education Laboratory to Angel Medical Center (AMC). The 39-foot simulation lab on wheels will teach current and future medical professionals as well as offer case-based studies and simulations.

Last month, the mobile simulation lab visited Angel Medical Center in Franklin, offering a course on pediatric care and nursing assessments. Caregivers were given the opportunity to take a tour and complete simulations.