Author: Katelyn Huffman

Huntsville, AL (October 16, 2025) – At Crestwood Medical Center, we believe the best healthcare happens when patients, families, and caregivers work together. That’s why we’re excited to announce the launch of our Patient & Family Advisory Council (PFAC), a new partnership designed to strengthen communication, build trust, and enhance the overall patient experience.

The PFAC serves as a collaborative forum where patients, family members, and hospital leaders come together to share ideas and feedback that help shape policies, programs, and the environment of care at Crestwood. Council members provide valuable insights that ensure the patient and family perspective is part of every decision, from how we design our spaces to how we communicate discharge instructions and more.

What the PFAC Does

The council will:

• Advise on hospital policies and initiatives that promote patient-centered care
• Provide input on patient education materials and discharge processes
• Offer feedback on quality, safety, and patient experience projects
• Support efforts to improve patient experience and overall satisfaction
• Encourage community engagement and representation in hospital decisions

Who’s Involved

The PFAC includes a diverse group of former or current patients and family members, alongside hospital representatives from nursing, clinical services, quality, and administration. Together, the council will meet regularly to review data, share stories, and collaborate on improvement projects.

Making a Difference

By bringing together the voices of our patients, families, and care teams, Crestwood’s PFAC reinforces our commitment to compassionate, connected care.

“Through this PFAC, we will be partnering directly with those we serve and will be able to identify opportunities for improvement that truly matter to them,” said Gina Jordan, Assistant Chief Nursing Officer at Crestwood Medical Center. “I believe this council will lead to better experiences, stronger relationships, and ultimately, better outcomes.”

Now Accepting Applications for the Patient & Family Advisory Council

If you’re passionate about improving healthcare and want to make a meaningful impact at Crestwood Medical Center, we invite you to apply to serve on the Patient & Family Advisory Council.

Member Expectations

PFAC members serve a 1–2 year term and are expected to:

• Attend at least 75% of scheduled meetings
• Participate actively and share honest, constructive feedback
• Maintain confidentiality and respect diverse viewpoints
• Collaborate with hospital staff and fellow advisors and work toward a shared goal

Meeting Details

The PFAC meets quarterly at Crestwood Medical Center during lunch time.

During meetings, members review patient experience data, provide feedback on projects and educational materials, and discuss ways to enhance quality and safety throughout the hospital.

Ready to Get Involved?

Applications are now open! If you’re interested in joining Crestwood’s Patient & Family Advisory Council, please apply online.

Together, we can continue to strengthen our culture of care.

(HUNTSVILLE, Alabama) – Crestwood Medical Center recently wrapped up its “Enjoy the Ride: Navigating a Longer, Healthier Life” email campaign, which included the importance of prevention and addressing other medical needs for overall health and longevity. If you’re one of the millions of Americans who procrastinate when it comes to preventive health screenings and elective medical procedures, now is the time to get it scheduled and checked off the list before the end of the year.

From colon cancer screening to joint replacements, getting procedures scheduled during the remainder of 2025 may also maximize insurance benefits for patients who have met their health plan deductible. However, the real benefit is taking care of your health.

“If a health screening is recommended it is typically because early detection of a disease or condition can prevent more serious health issues,” said Dr. Ayman Ghattas, a family medicine physician with Crestwood Medical Group. “With certain elective procedures like joint replacement or hernia repair, delay can mean more pain or a more complicated procedure and recovery. Physically and mentally, we all feel better when we make our health a priority.”

Preventive screenings to schedule by the end of the year include:

• Wellness visit – An annual appointment with a primary care physician is a key component of preventive health. These visits will likely include discussions about overall health, any health concerns or issues and health history. The physician will check your blood pressure and heart rate and may also recommend blood tests to check cholesterol, blood sugar or other conditions.
• Mammogram – The American College of Radiology recommends annual mammograms for women of average risk starting at age 40. Different guidelines apply to women at higher risk, including African American women and those of Ashkenazi Jewish descent and women with a family history of breast cancer.
• Colonoscopy – The CDC recommends colon cancer screening for adults of average risk starting at age 45 and continuing at regular intervals based on physician guidance. Colorectal cancer almost always develops from precancerous polyps which can be found and removed during a screening colonoscopy. A colonoscopy should be repeated every 10 years for those who do not have an increased risk of colorectal cancer.

In addition to preventive health screenings, many adults often put off surgical procedures that could significantly improve their quality of life and overall health such as joint replacements.

Whether you’re ready to schedule an elective procedure or just want to take care of annual screenings and visits, the patient access team at Crestwood Medical Center can help you understand your insurance coverage and what you can expect to pay for care. To talk with someone on the patient access team, call 256-429-4000.

Crestwood Medical Center is making it easier to get a screening mammogram with the addition of online scheduling. According to the American College of Radiology (ACR), having regular mammograms can lower the risk of dying from breast cancer, the second most common cancer among women in the United States.

Crestwood Women’s Center and Crestwood Outpatient Center offer a variety of diagnostic imaging services, including those that can help identify breast issues before they become more serious health problems. The ACR recommends annual screening mammograms starting at age 40 for women of average risk and more intensive screening for high-risk patients.

“Staying up to date on screening mammograms is so important for the health and well-being of women over 40, and we’re trying to make it as easy as possible,” said Julie McCain, manager of mammography services. “Mammograms can detect cancer before any symptoms, such as a lump, occur. It’s now convenient to schedule the appointment online and the screening takes less than 30 minutes – a half hour that could save your life.”

Women with strong family histories of breast cancer, African Americans and those of Ashkenazi Jewish descent should have a risk assessment at age 25 to see if a screening mammogram is needed before they are 40.

To schedule a mammogram at Crestwood Women’s Center or Crestwood Outpatient Center online, please visit crestwoodmedcenter.com/mammogram, or call 256-429-4700.

HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA – The last several months of the year are often spent enjoying cooler weather, watching football and preparing for the holidays. This is also a great time to review your health plan to determine whether you’ve met or are close to meeting your insurance deductible. If you have a flexible spending account (FSA), it’s time to check the balance for the remainder of the year.

Scheduling elective procedures and preventive screenings before the end of the year can help to maximize your healthcare dollars.

Most insurance plans require patients to pay more until they reach the amount of the deductible. When the deductible is met, the insurer begins paying a larger portion of the cost of services eligible through in-network providers. FSAs are typically “use-it-or-lose-it,” meaning funds have to be used for eligible healthcare expenses by the end of the year. These end of year deadlines make the second half of the year an opportune time to schedule medical procedures and screenings.

“Scheduling elective procedures – such as diagnostic tests or elective surgeries like joint replacement – in the same calendar year after a deductible has been met helps patients get the most value out of their health insurance plan, while taking care of their health,” said Sherry Jones, chief financial officer at Crestwood Medical Center. “Utilizing remaining FSA funds can also help to cover any out of pocket costs and ensure you don’t forfeit dollars that you’ve already set aside for healthcare.”

Private health insurance, including most Medicare Advantage plans, requires the beneficiary to cover most medical expenses until they reach their deductible. For example, someone who has a $2,000 deductible and a $4,000 out-of-pocket maximum is responsible for paying for medical expenses until they reach the $2,000 threshold. Once they pass this mark, the insurer begins paying a larger portion of the cost of services eligible through in-network providers. And when they reach the $4,000 out-of-pocket maximum, insurers usually will pay the total cost for eligible services.

Preventive health services – such as screening mammograms, colonoscopies and annual wellness visits – are often covered by insurance even when a deductible hasn’t been met. FSAs typically cover a broad range of services including screenings, diagnostic services and office visits. Dr. Alexander Flugrad, a family medicine physician with Crestwood Medical Group, says routine preventive care is key to maintain health and longevity.

“Even individuals who feel great should stay up to date on all recommended preventive health screenings to help identify any potential health issues or risk factors early,” said Dr. Flugrad. “Early detection of many health issues such as high cholesterol or hypertension not only allows for more effective treatment, it can also reduce the need for more expensive treatments associated with advanced medical conditions.”

Now is the time to schedule an appointment to obtain medical services before the end of the year. Demand for services often increases in the second half of the year, and with surgeries, there may be preliminary tests and appointments needed before the procedure can be scheduled.

Whether you’re ready to schedule an elective procedure or just want to take care of annual screenings and visits, the patient access team at Crestwood Medical Center can help you understand your insurance coverage and what you can expect to pay for care.

(Madison, AL) (September 5) — Crestwood Outpatient Center in Madison (Hughes Road) has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in mammography as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology® (ACR®).

Mammography is a specific type of imaging test that uses a low-dose X-ray system to examine breasts. A mammography exam, called a mammogram, is used to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases in women.

The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. It is awarded only to facilities meeting specific requirements based on ACR Practice Parameters and Technical Standards after a peer-review evaluation by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. Image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures and quality assurance programs are assessed. The findings are reported back to the facility and provide the practice with a comprehensive report that can be used for continuous practice improvement.

“Earning ACR accreditation is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our imaging team,” said Julie McCain. “Our patients can feel confident knowing they are receiving the highest standard of mammography care in a safe, comfortable environment. We are proud to provide this level of quality and excellence to the community we serve.”

In addition to this accreditation at the Madison location, Crestwood Women’s Center in Huntsville is recognized by the American College of Radiology as a Comprehensive Breast Center. This national recognition includes accreditation in mammography, breast ultrasound, breast ultrasound guided biopsy, stereotactic breast biopsy and breast MRI.

With board-certified radiologists and a team of highly trained technologists, Crestwood provides accurate imaging and timely results to support patient diagnosis and treatment.

About the American College of Radiology
The American College of Radiology® (ACR®), founded in 1924, is a 42,000-member medical association that advances patient care, medical practice and collaborative results through advocacy, quality standards, research and education. Learn more at www.acr.org.

HUNTSVILLE, AL — Crestwood Medical Center welcomes Scott Bracci as chief operating officer, starting September 8, 2025.

Scott’s career in healthcare began as an ultrasound technologist at Baptist Health’s flagship hospital in Miami, more than 25 years ago. His clinical background provides him with valuable insight and a strong appreciation for care teams and patient care needs.

Throughout his career, Scott has held key leadership roles across several facilities, including Mercy Hospital Miami, Westside Regional Medical Center in Florida, and most recently, Mission Hospital in Asheville, North Carolina.

“Scott’s leadership experience and operational insight make him a strong addition to our executive team,” said Justin Serrano, chief executive officer of Crestwood Medical Center. “He shares our commitment to delivering high-quality care and will play an important role in supporting our physicians, staff, and patients.”

Scott holds a master’s degree in health administration from the University of St. Francis and is active in several professional organizations, including the American College of Healthcare Executives and the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. He is also trained in Studer Principles as well as Six Sigma/Lean Six Sigma.

HUNTSVILLE, AL (August 21) – Crestwood Medical Center has developed an exciting new initiative designed to empower our community to live longer, healthier lives. Enjoy the Ride: Navigating a Longer, Healthier Life is a FREE 12-day, longevity-focused email series launching on Sept. 15.

According to the CDC, Americans’ average lifespan is longer than ever – 74.8 years for men and 80 for women. But Americans’ healthspan – how long a person is healthy and free of disease – is decreasing. Baby Boomers are more likely than their parents to have cancer, lung disease, heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, hearing problems, and mobility difficulties. Longevity merges lifespan and healthspan in the idea of growing older and staying healthy at the same time.

“Longevity takes into account not only a person’s chronological age, but also biological age,” says Dr. Nnamdi Azih, Crestwood Medical Group cardiologist. “Age-related decline doesn’t have to be a foregone conclusion. With informed, proactive choices, at age 80, a person essentially could have the level of health expected at age 60.”

The Enjoy the Ride email series is designed to help people make proactive choices for long-term wellness. Daily road trip-themed emails include information about conditions most prevalent with aging, ways to prevent those diseases, and descriptions of how healthy choices can impact longevity.

“We find people in their 30s are already considering longevity, especially if they have a family history of conditions like heart disease or dementia,” says Justin Serrano, Chief Executive Officer. “We’re happy to see this trend because it’s never too early to start thinking about what you want your future health to look like—and we want to help people map that for themselves.”

Crestwood Women’s Center Recognized by American College of Radiology

When it comes to breast health, early detection and timely care make all the difference. With a team of skilled professionals, advanced imaging technology, and a patient-first approach, the Women’s Center at Crestwood offers a full range of services designed to support early detection, accurate diagnosis, and timely follow-up care.

The Women’s Center at Crestwood is recognized as a comprehensive breast imaging center by the American College of Radiology (ACR). The Women’s Center has ACR accreditation in mammography, breast ultrasound, ultrasound-guided biopsy, stereotactic breast biopsy, and breast MRI.

“It’s a national recognition for our quality of our care and having that recognition is huge, not only for us, but for our community,” said Julie McCain, mammography manager at Crestwood Women’s Center. “This accreditation is a powerful validation of the team’s commitment to comprehensive breast care. It tells our patients that when they walk through our doors, they’re receiving care that meets national standards.”

Beyond the accolades, Crestwood’s focus is on reducing anxiety and providing swift, clear answers in order to reduce the anxiety that often accompanies a breast screening or diagnosis.

“For a typical screening mammogram, you’re going to have that result to your physician within about 24 hours,” McCain explained. “If there’s a finding that’s abnormal or concerning, our breast imaging staff will communicate that directly to the patient within 24 hours of interpretation.”

At Crestwood, the breast imaging team also coordinates the next steps, whether that’s additional imaging or a biopsy.

“We work closely with surgeons, family doctors, oncologists, the patient and other providers needed to move forward with the next steps of care quickly and confidently,” McCain added. “That level of coordination ensures patients never feel alone or left waiting.”

From screening to diagnosis and treatment planning, Crestwood’s Women’s Center offers one location for breast imaging, one connected care team and one streamlined experience.

Crestwood’s Harvest Freestanding Emergency Department Turns One

Harvest, AL – July 14, 2025 – It’s already been a year since Crestwood Medical Center opened the doors to the Crestwood Medical Center Freestanding Emergency Department (FED) in Harvest, Alabama. Built to meet the needs of a fast-growing community, the Harvest FED has become a vital healthcare resource for families in northwest Madison County and beyond. The freestanding emergency department cared for its first patient on July 9, 2024.

Now, a year in, the numbers tell a powerful story of access, impact, and service:

• 14,955 ER visits
• 348 ambulance arrivals
• 658 hospital admissions
• 103 zip codes served
• 8 Heart Alerts with an average of 91 minutes from door to device for possible intervention
• 3 stroke patients received emergency treatment of clot-busting medication
• 800 outpatient imaging studies

From broken bones to chest pain and everything in between, the Harvest freestanding emergency department has offered timely, life-saving care for individuals in North Alabama.

“These numbers represent real people, neighbors, friends, and families, who needed help, and found it just minutes from their door,” said Justin Serrano, chief executive officer at Crestwood Medical Center. “We’re proud to serve this community and look forward to continuing to grow alongside it.”

The Harvest FED is staffed by board-certified emergency physicians, nurses and advanced practice providers, offering the same level of care found at hospital-based ERs. When patients need more advanced care or inpatient treatment, seamless transfers to Crestwood Medical Center ensure continuity and speed.

“We opened the Harvest facility with a vision to bring high-quality, 24/7 emergency care closer to where people live, work, and raise families,” said Dr. Ric Koler, ER physician at the freestanding ER. “A year later, we see that vision in action every day. This freestanding ER has filled a critical need and exceeded expectations in how many lives would be impacted.”

The success of this facility in its first year reflects both the need for localized emergency care and the commitment of our healthcare team to meet that need with skill and compassion.

Crestwood Medical Center plans to build a freestanding emergency department in Madison, Alabama. Construction is expected to begin later this year.

Huntsville, AL (July 2, 2025) – The summer heat is on, and many experts predict that 2025 could surpass 2024 as the hottest year on record in the United States. According to a Crestwood Medical Center emergency department physician, Jeremy Johnson, warmer temperatures often bring more patients to the ER with symptoms of heat-related illnesses.

“An increase in outdoor activity is one of the reasons we all enjoy the summer months, but heat waves can create dangerous conditions for anyone spending a prolonged amount of time outside,” said Dr. Johnson. “Heat stroke occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature and is one of the most serious heat-related illnesses we treat in the ER. Emergency treatment is necessary to prevent damage to the brain, heart, kidneys and muscles.”

Symptoms of heat stroke include confusion, altered mental status, slurred speech, seizures, loss of consciousness and high body temperature. It is important to call 911 if heat stroke is expected and take steps to cool the individual while waiting for emergency help.

Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness and is caused by the combination of dehydration and high temperatures. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, sweating and an elevated body temperature. Those suspected of having heat exhaustion should also seek medical attention.

“Heat-related illnesses can affect anyone, but children and adults with underlying health conditions, pregnant women and outdoor workers are especially susceptible,” said Dr. Johnson. “It’s a good practice to check on these individuals during periods of extreme heat and make sure they stay hydrated, take breaks and cool off when spending time outside.”

Most people can avoid heat-related illnesses by taking a few precautions:

• If working or exercising outside, try to do so in the early morning or evening hours when temperatures are cooler.
• If you must be outside for long periods of time, take frequent breaks in the shade or in air-conditioned spaces.
• Stay hydrated by always having a water bottle on hand and limiting drinks with high levels of sugar, caffeine or alcohol.
• Stay informed with the National Weather Service HeatRisk index, and Air Quality Index, tools that indicate when heat or air quality may pose a health threat.

According to the National Institutes of Health, ED visits for heat-related emergency conditions increase by roughly 70% during periods of extreme heat. These periods are marked by temperatures and humidity that are significantly hotter and/or more humid than the average for a particular location at that time of year.