St. Joseph's/Candler

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St. Joseph's/Candler

More than 300 years of medical expertise and today's latest technology. At St. Simply put, St. Joseph's/Candler is smart medicine. Whether you are visiting St.

Joseph's/Candler, our physicians, nurses, medical researchers and other clinical staff take great pride in being on the cutting-edge of health care, offering the most advanced medical procedures and breakthrough technology available nearly anywhere. Joseph's Hospital, Candler Hospital, one of our St. Joseph's/Candler medical group locations, any of our community outreach programs or our Web site, you instantly become part of a historic tradition of distinguished health care excellence. It is one that has been an integral part of the Savannah landscape for more than 325 cumulative years. Our faith-based mission is to treat illness and promote wellness for all people and we diligently strive to provide the highest quality health care and service to all who may need it. Yet, we also know that great care involves more than just great medicine. It involves being pro-active about one's own health, taking charge on the preventive front, educating oneself and others, and using all the available tools to ensure one's own health and that of their family. In an effort to enhance the available tools, we have provided this beneficial Web site and healthcare portal. As you navigate, please use the information provided to learn more about the services and resources that we offer to our patients and visitors, as well as the educational resources and interactive opportunities that we have designed for you.

01/23/2026

When it comes to surgery, the "little things" make the biggest difference. For Outpatient Surgery nurse Erin Lanier, BSN, RN, AMB-BC, the procedure is only half the job—the other half is building trust.

Whether you’ve walked through the doors of Candler Hospital as a patient or you work alongside her in the halls, you know that a friendly face is the best remedy for pre-surgery anxiety.

“I’m a people-person; I love talking with patients and asking them questions," says Erin. "It can really help with their anxiety and make their whole experience better."

How does Erin’s team at Candler ensure a seamless experience?
1️⃣Education First: From the pre-operative assessment to the expected timeline, Erin ensures every patient knows exactly what to anticipate.
2️⃣Convenience for Families: For those living outside of Savannah, the team works with the pharmacy to supply medications before discharge—saving you an extra trip and providing immediate relief.
3️⃣Modern Care: While most go home the same day, patients requiring extra monitoring can recover in our newly renovated Post-Surgical Unit.

For Erin, it’s all about focused, personalized care from start to finish. We are so proud to have Magnet nurses like Erin on our team, providing world-class service right here in Savannah.

01/23/2026

If you’re young and healthy, you might think you can skip the flu shot. Or maybe you’ve heard the myth that the vaccine can give you the flu. (It can’t — it’s not a live virus.) These are common concerns, but they’re misconceptions.

As Dr. Michael McNeely, primary care physician at St. Joseph’s/Candler Primary Care on the Islands, explains:
👉 The flu shot takes about two weeks to fully kick in, so don’t delay unnecessarily.

Here’s why getting your flu shot now — and every year — really matters:

✅ Protect your health
The flu isn’t “just a bad cold.” It can cause fever, body aches, fatigue — and in some cases lead to serious complications like pneumonia, hospitalization, or worse. The flu vaccine prevents millions of illnesses and thousands of deaths each year.

✅ Miss fewer work or school days
The flu leads to nearly 17 million missed workdays each season in the U.S. A flu shot can help keep you on your feet and out of bed.

✅ Protect the people around you
Even if you rarely get sick, vaccination helps stop the spread. It’s especially important for protecting:
⭐Babies and young children
⭐Older adults
⭐People with chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or lung disease

Getting vaccinated isn’t just about you — it’s about your community. ❤️

💉 Now is the time to get your flu shot. They’re available at most neighborhood pharmacies and primary care offices.

🔗Looking for a primary care physician? Search by name, specialty or zip code to find the right provider for you. Click the link in the comments.

01/21/2026

Opening a cabinet door, stepping out of a car, or even walking across the room can become a challenge for those living with Parkinson’s or other movement disorders. Often, you might not even realize your steps are getting smaller—it just starts to feel "normal."

Chandler Royal, DPT, is helping patients "think BIG" to take their mobility back at At Candler Hospital Outpatient Rehabilitation Center.

Through the LSVT BIG® program, we help you retrain your body to:
✅ Take larger, more confident steps
✅ Improve postural stability
✅ Overcome "freezing" episodes
✅ Complete daily tasks with more ease

"The difference you see, even with a progressive disease, is so rewarding," says Royal. Whether you want to maintain your baseline or improve your daily function, we are here to help you move with authority.

Ready to find your stride? LSVT BIG is a dedicated 4-week program tailored specifically to your goals. To get started, you’ll just need a physician referral for outpatient rehab.

📞 Call us at 912-819-6176 or visit our website to request an appointment today.

01/20/2026

St. Joseph’s/Candler coworkers have gathered over the last few days in both joyful celebration and deep reflection to honor the enduring legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Through today's parade and last week's music, prayer, and the spoken word, we recommitted ourselves to the work of building a "Beloved Community" right here in Savannah.

From the Marsh Auditorium at Candler to the chapel at St. Joseph’s, our halls last week were filled with the spirit of unity: “The King Explosion” – A powerful musical tribute at Candler Hospital that reminded us of the soul and strength of the movement.

“Mission Possible” – A service at St. Joseph's Hospital focused on building community and uniting our nation through the transformative power of nonviolence.

We are incredibly grateful to the friends and co-workers who shared their gifts of song, poetry, and wisdom, including Sharon Aikens, Melody Power, Kim Polote, and the PAC (Performing Arts Collective) Savannah.

Special thanks to our SJ/C team members Brenda Rucker, Rev. Columbus Burns, Devan Cokley, Bishop Andrew Williams, Rev. Tavious Mays, and Sisters Veronica, Donna, and Maureen for their powerful invocations last week.

01/19/2026

Happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day,! 🕊️

Today, we are honored to celebrate the legacy of Dr. King by participating in the Savannah MLK Parade. We love being part of this community and working together toward a healthier, unified future for everyone. See you on the parade route! 👟✨" 🕊

01/18/2026

The arrival of the da Vinci robotic surgical system to St. Joseph’s/Candler in November 2007 was a game-changer for Savannah and the surrounding region.

Now, after performing more than 14,000 procedures for our community, we are taking the next giant leap forward with the arrival of the da Vinci 5—the most powerful surgical robot in the world.

This isn't just an upgrade; it’s a revolution in precision and patient care.

What makes the da Vinci 5 a game-changer for our patients? While robotic surgery has always meant smaller incisions and faster recoveries, this new system adds "Force Feedback" technology. For the first time, the robot allows surgeons to actually feel the resistance and tension of tissue, just as if their own hands were inside.

Why this matters for your recovery:
💠 Gentler on the Body: Surgeons use up to 43% less force on tissue, meaning less trauma, less inflammation, and less pain after surgery.
💠 Unmatched Precision: With 3D imaging that is more lifelike than ever, surgeons can see tiny nerves and blood vessels with incredible clarity.
💠 Smart Technology: With 10,000x more computing power than previous models, the system helps our surgeons optimize every movement for the best possible outcome.

"This is the most powerful surgical robot in the world, and we have it here," says Dr. Marc Bailey, cardiothoracic surgeon at St. Joseph's/Candler. "It was hard to imagine it getting any better, but now it has."

From urology and gynecology to complex thoracic and general surgeries like hernia repairs, this world-class technology is officially part of our mission to provide the highest standard of care to the people of the Lowcountry and Coastal Empire.

You don’t have to travel far for the latest medical breakthroughs. The future of surgery is right here at St. Joseph’s/Candler.

🌐Want to see how robotic-assisted surgery could benefit you? Talk to your doctor or visit our website to learn more about our robotic surgery program.

01/17/2026

Gone are the days when managing diabetes meant constant finger sticks and multiple daily injections.

✨ Technology is changing the game for the 30 million Americans living with diabetes. 📱

If you or a loved one are navigating life with this chronic condition, modern tools like wearable monitors and smart pumps are making it easier than ever to reduce the "burden" of the disease and prevent serious complications like heart attack or stroke.

"It’s been exceptional what’s going on with start-up companies and large pharmaceuticals getting into diabetes technology," says Dr. Priti Nath, endocrinologist with St. Joseph’s/Candler Physician Network. "I love it... it’s something we can offer patients so they can help treat themselves."

Dr. Nath offers these advanced options to help her patients take control:
💠Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGM): No more finger sticks. These wearable sensors on the arm or belly send your levels directly to an app on your phone.
💠Insulin Pumps: These provide a steady, measured dose of insulin throughout the day, often with just a click of a button at mealtime.
💠Smart Insulin Pens: Perfect for those on the go, these pens track exactly how much insulin you’ve used so your medical team can better manage your care.

📍 Ready to see how these tools—and a great support system—can help you? Join us for our Post-Parade Party and Diabetes Screening:
💠When: Monday, January 19 starting at 1:00 p.m.
💠Where: African-American Health Information Center, 1910 Abercorn St.
💠What: FREE diabetes screenings and expert advice.

Diabetes is a lifelong journey, but with the right technology, it doesn't have to be a debilitating one. Whether you have Type 1 or Type 2, if your diabetes is uncontrolled, it’s time to see what these new devices can do for you.

🔗 Take the next step: Request a referral to see Dr. Priti Nath or Dr. Carolyn Nelson at SJ/C Physician Network – Endocrinology by calling 912-819-3944 or visit us online: https://www.sjcphysiciannetwork.com/physician-network/health-services/endocrinology

01/16/2026

Carotid arteries come up often in medical dramas, but in real life, these vessels are the "interstates" that deliver oxygen-rich blood to your brain.

When they get clogged with plaque (Carotid Artery Stenosis), it becomes a leading risk factor for stroke.

The scary part? You might not feel any symptoms at all. That is why your annual checkup with a primary care provider is so vital.

"A primary care physician may discover the stenosis during a routine checkup. Your neck pulse makes a distinctive sound when there is narrowing of the artery," explains Dr. Kristy Conlon, Vascular Surgeon at St. Joseph’s/Candler’s Physician Network – Vascular Specialists.

By simply listening to your neck with a stethoscope, your doctor can catch issues before they lead to a stroke or a TIA (mini-stroke).

Are you at risk? Plaque builds up naturally as we age, but your risk increases if you:
💠Have high cholesterol or blood pressure
💠Manage diabetes
💠Smoke or have a sedentary lifestyle

Don't wait for a warning sign to take care of your vascular health. Schedule your annual physical today—it’s the easiest way to keep your "blood flow" in a better state.

🔗 Need a primary care provider? Find a physician near you at sjchs.org/find-a-physician

01/14/2026

In the South, we know the drill when it freezes: cover the plants, drip the faucets, and break out the heavy coats. But if you or a loved one are living with COPD, there’s one more critical precaution to take: protecting your lungs.

Cold, dry winter air can be more than just uncomfortable—it can be a major trigger for COPD flare-ups. 🆘

COPD is a progressive but treatable disease, says Dr. Ryan Moody, pulmonologist with Southeast Lung Associates. However, winter brings a "double whammy" for lung health:
1️⃣Irritating Air: Cold, dry air can narrow airways and make breathing more difficult.
2️⃣Peak Virus Season: Flu and respiratory viruses are at their height, which are leading causes of dangerous flare-ups.

Know the Warning Signs
A "flare-up" is a sudden worsening of symptoms. Keep an eye out for:
😷 Increased breathlessness or coughing
🤧 A change in the color or amount of phlegm (sputum)
😴 Feeling more fatigued than usual

5 Tips to Breathe Easier This Winter
Don't let the cold sideline you! Follow these steps to stay healthy until spring:
🌦 Check the Forecast: Stay indoors on the coldest days. Keep an eye on the Air Quality Index, as winter wood-burning can increase pollution.
💨The Scarf Trick: If you must go out, wrap a scarf loosely over your nose and mouth. This helps warm and humidify the air before it hits your lungs.
🔥Skip the Fireplace: As cozy as it looks, wood smoke and particles are major lung irritants. Use a warm blanket instead!
💉Shield Against Germs: It’s not too late for a flu shot. Wash your hands often and avoid large crowds during peak virus weeks.
💊Keep Meds Handy: Always have your rescue inhaler or prescribed medications with you when leaving the house.

Bottom Line: If your symptoms aren't improving or you develop a fever, don’t wait—call your healthcare provider right away.

Help your community stay healthy! 💙 Share this post with a friend or family member who needs to keep their lung health a priority this season.

01/13/2026

Did your New Year’s exercise plan hit a wall when the temperature dropped? It’s tempting to stay under the covers, but our team at the St. Joseph’s/Candler Wellness Center has a message for you: Don’t let the chill be your excuse.

“Exercise is body maintenance, just like brushing your teeth,” says Michelle LaFleur, SJ/C Exercise Specialist and professional runner. “In the winter, exercise boosts your circulation and strengthens your immune system to help you fight off flu season. Plus, those natural endorphins are the perfect cure for the winter blues!” ☀️

If you’re heading outside to walk the neighborhood or hit the gym, follow these 7 Tips to Freeze-Proof Your Workout:

1️⃣ Choose the Right Fabric: Swap the cotton for moisture-wicking polyester or polypropylene. Cotton holds moisture and can give you the chills once you start to sweat.
2️⃣ Master the Layering Game: Start with a synthetic base, add wool or fleece for insulation, and top it with a lightweight windbreaker.
3️⃣ Cover Your Extremities: You lose a massive amount of heat through your head. Don't forget the hat, gloves, and dry, insulated socks.
4️⃣ Stay Hydrated: Just because you aren't "hot" doesn't mean you aren't losing moisture. Drink water before, during, and after your workout.
5️⃣ Warm Up First: Cold muscles are more prone to injury. Spend extra time stretching indoors before stepping out into the cold air.
6️⃣ Listen to Your Body: If you have a chronic condition like diabetes or are an older adult, talk to your provider before starting a new winter routine.
7️⃣ Move it Indoors: If it's just too cold for you, come see us.

Ready to take your workout inside? 🏠 The St. Joseph’s/Candler Wellness Center offers everything from cardio and weights to chair yoga and water aerobics. Stay warm, stay active, and stay healthy with us.

📞 Call us at 912-819-8800 for membership information.

How are you staying active this week? Tell us in the comments! 👇

01/12/2026

With flu spreading across the country, and temperatures dropping this week, it’s time to double down on your defenses. 🌡️❄️

The upcoming cold snap means we’ll be spending more time huddled indoors in close quarters where viruses and bacteria spread. But that doesn't translate to obsessively sanitizing every doorknob and elevator button you see.

“Having an expectation of every surface being clean at all times is going to cause you anxiety, and you’re going to miss out on life,” says Anna F. Spelts, MD, of St. Joseph’s/Candler Primary Care in Richmond Hill.

The most powerful tool you have is also the simplest: Hand Hygiene.

Tips for Staying Healthy:
👋Wash at the "Right" Moments: Make it a habit after using the restroom, before eating, and after coughing or sneezing.
🚗The Car Trick: Keep a bottle of alcohol-based sanitizer in your car. A quick pump after pumping gas or grocery shopping breaks the chain of transmission.
🤗Keep Hands Away from Your Face: Germs need a way in—usually through your eyes, nose, or mouth. Clean hands stop them in their tracks.

Small modifications can make a big difference! Let’s keep ourselves and our neighbors healthy this season.

01/12/2026

The United States of America will turn 250 years old this July. 🗽 But the country is still younger than the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office.

Established in 1732, the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office is the oldest sheriff’s office in Georgia and one of the oldest in the U.S. The office has gone through many changes throughout the years, but its mission remains the same: to provide the highest standard of protection and service to the people of Chatham County.

And after 294 years, the office is still making history:

☝ In August of 2025, Major Nicole Scott-Bond was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel. She is the first woman in the history of the office to reach this rank.

☝A month later, Colonel McArthur Holmes came out of retirement to become the office’s Chief Deputy. He is the first African-American in the office’s history to hold this position.

Both of these milestones come from a lifetime of service.

⏩They share what it means to "protect and to serve"-- especially when it comes to helping people with dementia: https://www.sjchs.org/resource-hub/smart-living-magazine/january-february-2026/badges-of-honor

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+19128196000

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http://www.sjchs.org/

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