January/February 2013
Mar 04, 2016
January/February 2013
As the parent company of Colonial, Community
Behavioral Health, Community First Pharmacy and
Partners in Prime, Community First Solutions touches
more than 40,000 Butler County residents annually.
We are one of the leading providers of mental health and
behavioral services in the region, the largest provider of Meals
on Wheels in Butler County, the operator of two top-ranked
senior living communities and the developer of the second
non-profit pharmacy in the nation.
Our non-profit mission is simple. We want to provide
services that benefit you. We want to invest in the long term
sustainability of this community. Because of this, each of our
companies has a vested interest in finding a solution for the
viability and well-being of the Butler County community.
From the older adult in West Chester receiving a nutritious
meal right to his door, to the family in Middletown undergoing
counseling during a rough year and the kindergartner in
Hamilton mastering her language art skills – your community
is our mission.
For more information about Community First Solutions visit
www.community-first.org or call 513-785-4060.
Your community. Our mission.
®
1918 1954 1974 2008
Our Roots For over 90 years our non-profit businesses have been committed to serving the needs of this community.
www.community-first.org | 3
Let’s face it. Wellness is multifaceted.
What works for one person will likely not work for
another. That’s why our job is to look at every client’s
needs holistically to assess how we can help them
achieve their best quality of life. Among our diverse
network of services, our CORE WellnessTM philosophy
is interwoven throughout every business in Community
First. We believe that fulfilling physical, social and
spiritual needs is essential to the core of every person.
It’s all about your quality of life.
An older adult who is experiencing social isolation as a
result of injury or illness can receive rehab and wellness
services at Colonial, utilize diverse programming and
Physical: Fitness, proactive behavior, healthcare and proper nutrition
Social: Connection to others and engagement with one’s community
Spiritual: Sense of purpose, state of being & self-actualization
social opportunities at Partners in Prime, undergo
counseling for depression through Community
Behavioral Health and receive medications through
the Community First Pharmacy.
And while that might not be every client’s
story, we want people to understand that the
path to a quality of life with staying power is one
that empowers clients to achieve their best self at
any age.
From age one through 101, we want you to achieve your
best quality of life, and we think our CORE WellnessTM
philosophy is the way to make it happen.
1918 1954 1974 2008
4 | Community First Solutions
W alk into the Community First
Pharmacy at 210 S. 2nd St.
and you might think you’ve
wandered into your primary physician’s office.
Customers wait to talk to Craig Stiens, PharmD,
about a recent combination of medications, the
unintended side effects of a new generic brand and
the best multivitamin for their 4-year-old.
The reason, says Stiens, a graduate of the University
of Cincinnati’s College of Pharmacy, is attributed to
a shift that is being echoed nationwide.
In a day where it’s common to spend more time in the waiting room than speaking with your physician, the role of the pharmacist is
rapidly evolving into more of a medication manager
and counselor. Stiens explains further, “People are
inclined to stick to a medication regimen prescribed
by their physician. If the combination is not yielding
positive health outcomes, then they’re likely to
neglect taking their medication altogether.”
And, as it turns out, maximizing patient outcomes benefits more than just the patient.
Marilyn Schwemberger, Vice President of Patient
Care and Clinical Services at Fort Hamilton Hospital
says that because hospitals are paying the price
for excessive readmission and emergency room
visits, they are trying to find long-term solutions for
treatment efficacy.
“In other words,” says Schwemberger, “how can we
motivate patients to maintain the outcome? Some
physicians are adopting a practice what you preach
philosophy; others are asking questions to clearly
identify obstacles to patient success.”
“Just like other drug stores,
Community First Pharmacy accepts
my insurance. But, unlike big box
pharmacies, my prescription is
available at a much lower price and
I have the opportunity to consult
my pharmacist when I need to.”
–Local Client
Filling PrescriptionsFuLFILLIng needS
For more information on the Community First companies mentioned in this story, please contact:
Community First Pharmacy | 513-645-5447 | www.community-firstrx.org
210 South Second St. Hamilton, OH 45013
In addition to serving uninsured and underinsured clients, Community First Pharmacy accepts all major insurance providers including the following:
Anthemunited Health Care
Humana Allied
www.community-first.org | 5
“It’s an example of revolving door syndrome. If we
don’t empower them to manage their plan of care,
they’ll end up right where they started.”
Moreover, studies consistently show that educating,
counseling and empowering individuals to make the
best decisions for their health is the most potent
solution for preventative health measures.
This theme seems to be shared by all non-profit
partners in the 210 S. 2nd St. building. Marc Bellisario,
CEO of Primary Health Solutions, says that it’s not
an accident that they share a building with the
Community First Pharmacy. Rather, it’s all part of the collaborative approach designed to best help community members.
“We’re able to write prescriptions for patients that
they can fill at the pharmacy immediately following
their appointment. Not only is it convenient, but
it also provides an effective way to ensure that
individuals are sticking to their plan of care,” says
Bellisario.
“At the end of the day,” Stiens continues, “we are
happy to be a resource for community members
and deliver that kind of customized care.”
Scan this code with your mobile device and view a video on the non-profit pharmacy difference.
HIGH ST. 127
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Located in the heart of downtown Hamilton
HIGH ST. 127
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What does it mean to be the second non-profit pharmacy in the nation? Community First Pharmacy employs a non-profit business model, a concept that is new to the health care industry. So new, in fact, that there was only one other of its kind when it was developed in 2008. It was modeled after the first non-profit pharmacy, situated in Cincinnati’s historic downtown neighborhood, Over-the Rhine.
This innovative model is designed to offer all of the services of a corner drug store without the high prices. Non-profit pharmacies seek to meet the needs of the insured and the underinsured in the community.
W hen Jane Miller’s husband passed away in 2010, her loss evolved into insurmountable grief. And while gloomy feelings are normal, her turmoil manifested into social isolation and lethargy, which is not.
This is true for many older adults in the United States. Depression is largely overlooked and dramatically untreated. As a result, the loss of a spouse, dealing with declining health, retirement and other major life transitions are met with overwhelming stress and anxiety. But, it doesn’t have to be this way.
ReACHIng OutAfter seeking help through UPLIFT, a program developed by Community Behavioral Health, Jane was able to meet with a counselor on a weekly basis. She learned how to define her feelings, a crucial first step in the healing process.
CReAtIng A gOALNext, Jane’s counselor helped her set goals to work toward. They discussed ways to support that goal through designated activities that contribute to a positive wellbeing.
From Grief to HopeA Journey of Healing
1eAt WeLL: For older adults it’s more important than ever to fuel appropriately to maintain energy and health. Your body needs the strength and hydration to help you feel your best - giving you the confidence to explore new opportunities and make the most out of life.
StAY COnneCted: Try to regularly catch up with friends and relatives. Social connectivity can go a long way. Lunch with a former coworker, Wednesday night book club or a game of cards with friends can help stave off feelings of social isolation.
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4 Ways To A More Positive OutlookFInd ACtIvItIeS YOu enjOY: You might be surprised how much your interests have changed. It’s not too late to learn a new language, pick up an art class or grow your own herb garden.
COPe WItH CHAnge: Check in with yourself. Is grief, stress or anxiety weighing you down? Don’t be afraid to reach out to support groups or volunteer organizations. Many people experience stress related to a dramatic change in lifestyle.
SPIRITUAL
6 | Community First Solutions
SOCIAL SuPPORtJane joined Partners in Prime, and slowly began to add structure to her day. Jane made plans to meet friends for lunch once a week. She also began to open up and share stories with friends who were experiencing similar situations.
gettIng PHYSICALAfter lunch, one of Jane’s friends convinced her to take a yoga class. Reluctant at first, Jane began to rely on taking meaningful, meditative breaths. For the first time in a long time, she felt a sense of self-connectedness.
MAkIng It ROutIneAfter several months she began to take comfort in her routine at Partners in Prime. She continued to explore what interested her. At 65, Jane had no idea how many things she could still discover about herself.
For more information on the Community First companies mentioned in this story, please contact:
Popular Activities at Partners in Prime
NiA MOveMeNT ClAssHamilton Prime ClubNia is a sensory-based movement practice that draws from martial arts, dance arts and healing arts. The classes offer a unique combination of 52 moves corresponding to the main areas of the body: the base, the core and the upper extremities. BegiNNiNg TAi CHiWest Chester Activity CenterTai Chi reduces stress, increases muscle strength and flexibility. It can also increase energy, balance, agility and feelings of well-being.
sPRiNgTiMe iN THe MOuNTAiNsThis 4-day, 3-night motorcoach trip to North Carolina includes a tour of the beautiful Biltmore Estate and its famous gardens and winery, a visit to the North Carolina Arboretum, Chimney Rock State Park, and the city of Hendersonville. Pick up a brochure at your local Prime Club for more details.
Depression affects more than 6.5 million of the 35 million Americans age 65 years or older.
Source: NAMI
CBH - UPLIFT 513-868-5126 | www.cbh-services.org
Prime Club Fairfield 5108 Sandy Lane | Fairfield, Ohio 45014 | 513-737-5752
Prime Club Hamilton 140 Ross Ave. | Hamilton, Ohio 45013 | 513-867-1998
West Chester Activity Center 7900 Cox Road | West Chester, Ohio 45069 | 513-779-7360
SOCIAL
PHYSICAL
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8 | Community First Solutions
R esearch indicates that older adults are
on a quest to live independently longer.
In fact, an overwhelming majority of
adults report high expectations for retirement.
They want it all – hobbies, entertainment, trips,
friends and fun.
But more than anything, they want the self-
reliance and assurance that they have resources
to maintain their active lifestyle.
Marcia Koenig, President of Colonial notes, “It’s
a transitional time that evokes questions from
older adults. It can be difficult to identify what
they need to implement into their lifestyle to
achieve their best self.”
That’s where a network of resources like
Colonial comes into play. We are your wellness
center, your home care service and your road to
recovery. It’s your life. We just want to help you
live it your way.
YOuR WeLLneSS COnneCtIOn
Elements is so much more than just a wellness
center. At The Square, members read the paper
over fresh fruit and their favorite breakfast
coffee. They get a few laps in before lunchtime
and enjoy exciting trips all over the tri-county
area. While just a few minutes away at Elements’
second location, The Bever, members start
their morning with a high cardio, low impact
cycling class followed by a 90 minute anti-stress
massage or a one on one session with a licensed
Elements trainer.
Your life, Your way
www.community-first.org | 9
For more information on the Community First companies mentioned in this story, please contact:
Colonial At Home www.colonialseniors.org | 513-889-2461
Colonial Rehab www.colonialseniors.org | 513-497-7429
Elements Wellness Centers www.elementswellness.org | 513-896-8087
ElEmEnts At thE BEvEr855 Stahlheber Road | Hamilton, OH 45013
ElEmEnts At thE squArE100 Berkeley Drive | Hamilton, OH 45013
513-896-8087www.elementswellness.org
ElEmEnts is A silvErsnEAkErs® locAtion!
But it’s not just the services and amenities that have
Elements members talking. “The culture of Elements
is so unlike any other wellness center in the area,” says
an Elements member. “They cater to the needs of older
adults and really encourage members to set – and reach -
their goals. It’s a really comfortable environment.”
YOuR HOMe
Need an extra hand with midday errands? What about
transportation to the doctor’s office? Colonial At Home
provides an array of in-home services designed to keep
you, or an aging parent living comfortably at home.
Caregivers are available anywhere between two and 24
hours a day. They’re happy to assist with light yard and
house work, preparation of meals and much more.
Jane Ripberger, Director of Colonial At Home, notes the
impact that caregivers can have.
“Just a few hours a week with a caregiver can help negate
the effects of social isolation and depression. For people
who have become more reclusive with age, perhaps
because of the death of a spouse or the transition to
retirement, it can be just the push they need to get their
life back,” says Ripberger.
YOuR ReCOveRY
The Colonial Communities of Berkeley Square and
Westover are the ideal spot for older adults to rehab
following surgery. Mindy Poling, MPT, DPT, Area Director of
Operations for Colonial’s Rehab, notes the unique concept
that is embedded into the journey of rehabilitation. “It’s
all about helping clients regain their quality of life,” she
says. And through the delivery of coordinated care – from
nurses and therapists to the dining staff, Colonial ensures
that everyone is on the same page to help patients achieve
their goals and return home quickly.
10 | Community First Solutions
SOCIAL & SuPPORtIve PROgRAMS
Shirley Smith
As a Westover resident, Shirley enjoys easy access to an array of
activities and programs at the Colonial Communities, such as water aerobics at Elements At The Bever, line dancing and a variety of social events, including a recent trip to the Hollywood Casino in Kentucky with her girlfriends. Shirley can rest assured her needs will be met later on with Colonial’s supportive continuing care services.
A PLACe tO COnneCt And ReCHARge
Bob Young
Elements member, Bob Young is both active in the community and
at Elements. A regular at the morning cycling class, Bob never misses an opportunity to get in a good cardio workout. He is also familiar with Colonial’s collaborative approach to rehabilitative services.
AMenItIeS And SeRvICeS FOR PROFeSSIOnALS In tHe COMMunItY
Kelli Kurtz
As a Coach House Tavern & Grille member, Kelli enjoys using the popular restaurant as a destination for business lunches. She has also partnered with Community First to introduce a volunteer and community outreach program, SPARK, to Badin High School.
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CARIng SuPPORt And PROgRAMS FOR teenAgeRS
Kyle McDermott
When Kyle’s parents divorced, his family sought the services of CBH’s family counseling, which helped
them heal together. He’s also had the support of other CBH services, including school based counseling, which has given him the resources he needs to excel at school. Kyle also enjoys the many programs offered at the West Chester Activity Center, including the center’s art classes and the strength-training class where he can condition for his upcoming baseball season.
enRICHIng ACtIvItIeS FOR YOung CHILdRen Penelope Cannon
An energetic and curious preschooler, Penelope wakes up every morning ready to have fun
at Colonial Schools. During free playtime she enjoys working with the innovative Tap-It® kiosk, which lets her access her favorite interactive learning games with just a touch of the screen. Penelope can’t wait to begin dance classes in the spring at the West Chester Activity Center. And her mom and dad, local Young Life leaders, look forward to using a rental space at WCAC to host an after school event for local high school students.
No MatteR youR age Discover what Community First Solutions has to offer
At Community First solutions, our mission is to develop meaningful ways to enhance the lives of everyone in the community—not just a particular age group. Find out how our
programs and services are meeting the needs of a variety of generations.
No MatteR youR age Discover what Community First Solutions has to offer
Collaborating with Others to Bridge gaps in our CommunityThe healthiest communities know how to evolve to meet the changing needs of residents. Community First leaders collaborate with others, investing in meaningful partnerships to create a network of vital supports and a sense of renewal in the community.
Bringing Affordable Healthcare to the CityIt’s not by accident that Primary Health Solutions and the Community First Pharmacy share a space downtown on 2nd Street. The pharmacy satisfied a need for accessible, low cost pharmaceuticals in the city. Patients can leave the health center and make their way to the Community First Pharmacy to fill prescriptions. This partnership makes affordable and convenient healthcare a reality for many Hamilton residents.
Finding employment For those in our community who have difficulty obtaining and maintaining employment because of social, situational or mental health barriers, Community Behavioral Health collaborates with the Butler County Department of Jobs and Family Services. This provides the unemployed with valuable resources and support to get them into the workforce again. CBH also partners with Workforce One of Butler County to provide local businesses with job ready employees who are well trained, prescreened and ready to work.
Delivering informative Programming
A new partnership with TV Hamilton will help reach many residents, providing them with informational programming about what’s going on in the community. Together with Fort Hamilton Hospital, the City of Hamilton, Hamilton City Schools, and the Hamilton Community Foundation, we will work to help educate and inspire all residents in Hamilton.
Your quality of life is at the core of our mission. By working together in the community, we are creating a thriving, sustainable future.
Our Economic ImpactLet’S tAke A LOOk At tHe nuMBeRS...
• 3rdhighestpropertytaxcontributorin the city with $4,652,250 assessed valuation.
• 5th largest employer in the city of Hamilton with over 600 employees.
• We make a conscious decision to support regional business by working with local partners.
SuStaININg
COReof the Community
www.community-first.org | 11
520 Eaton Ave, Hamilton, OH 45013www.community-first.org
Chairman of the BoardStephan C. Sullivan
President & CEOJeffrey P. Thurman
Vice President of Business Development & MarketingDanielle Webb
®
Your Community. Our Mission.
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PAIdHAMILTON, OHPERMIT #138