News & Events

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Getting To Know Hospitalist Dr. Halima Bakillah, MD

Wednesday, November 20, 2024

St. James is pleased to welcome Dr. Halima Bakillah to our Inpatient Unit, as she has joined our team of patient care techs, nurses, and physician assistants. Dr. Bakillah joined SJH in early October, here are some facts about her journey in medicine:

Journey in Medicine

Dr. Bakillah’s medical journey began at Trinity School of Medicine in the Caribbean, where she earned her MD and developed a strong foundation in patient care. Following medical school, she completed her Internal Medicine Residency at Arnot Ogden Medical Center, spending her final year of training at HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood. These provided her with a range of skills essential for her work as a hospitalist, where she cares for patients staying overnight in the Inpatient Unit who often have varying and complex medical needs.

Passion for Comprehensive Patient Care

Initially considering a career as a primary care provider, Dr. Bakillah’s passion for supporting patients’ overall health ultimately led her to the role of hospitalist. Now, she brings her love for internal medicine to each patient interaction, where she serves as a crucial bridge between hospitalized patients and their primary care providers. This coordination ensures patients receive continuous, seamless
care- a role she finds deeply rewarding.

Beyond the Hospital

Outside of her work at St. James, she enjoys traveling, especially when it allows her to reconnect with family in Tunisia and Morocco. In her downtime, she enjoys reading topics ranging from lifestyle medicine to fantasy and sci-fi novels.

We are happy to have Dr. Halima Bakillah on our team and look forward to the positive impact she will have on our patients and community.

St. James Hospital Completes First Robotic-Assisted Surgery

Monday, November 4, 2024

St. James Hospital is thrilled to announce the successful completion of its first robotic-assisted surgery using the da Vinci Surgical System, marking a new era in advanced patient care for the hospital and the community.

Despite the national IV fluid shortage, St. James Hospital has established protocols to reserve IV fluids for critical and emergent surgeries, ensuring that resources are prioritized where they are needed most.

“This is a huge advance for our hospital, our patients, and our community,” said Wendy Disbrow, President and CEO of St. James Hospital. “This commitment to innovative, patient-centered care is at the heart of St. James’ mission, and we are thrilled to bring this advanced technology to the patients we serve.”

Timothy Reidlinger, St. James Hospital General Surgeon, commented: “This achievement was a team effort, and we’re thrilled to now offer this advanced surgical option for our patients.”

Benefits of Robotic-Assisted Surgery with the da Vinci System

• Enhanced Precision: Robotic systems translate the surgeon’s hand movements with high accuracy, minimizing tissue disruption and preserving surrounding structures.
• Minimally Invasive: Smaller incisions reduce scarring, postoperative pain, and the risk of infection. 
• Faster Recovery Times: Many patients experience shorter hospital stays and quicker returns to daily activities compared to traditional open surgery.

St. James Hospital’s adoption of the da Vinci Surgical System reflects its dedication to enhancing patient care through cutting-edge technology. As the hospital continues to grow in response to community needs, patients and providers alike will benefit from this new era of surgical capability close to home.

St. James Hospital and UR Medicine Affiliates Pause Some Elective Surgeries

Tuesday, October 15, 2024

In alignment with the UR Medicine affiliates, St. James Hospital will pause some elective and semi-elective surgical procedures requiring IV sterile fluids, beginning Wednesday, Oct. 16. This pause will affect surgeries scheduled at St. James Hospital. If you are currently scheduled for surgery or a procedure, you will be notified if your appointment has changed.

Since Hurricane Helene, hospitals nationwide have experienced significantly reduced shipments of IV sterile fluids. The Baxter International Plant, based in Marion, N.C., was severely damaged because of flooding from the September hurricane. According to the American Hospital Association, the plant makes 60% of the nation’s supply of IV fluids and peritoneal dialysis solutions, amounting to 1.5 million bags daily.

The U.S. government has approved use of fluids from international suppliers, and UR Medicine procurement teams are working to increase supplies from multiple vendors. While shipments of IV fluids have resumed at lower rates than before, and UR Medicine faculty and staff have taken multiple innovative steps to use fluids more efficiently.

The pause on some elective and semi-elective surgeries will help UR Medicine extend its system-wide reserves of sterile fluids, ensuring consistent patient care across all locations with urgent and emergent cases as priorities. All cases will be reviewed daily by perioperative leaders from across the system to determine urgency. We will resume full surgery schedules as soon as available resources allow.

St. James Hospital Introduces Cutting-Edge Robotic Surgery Technology

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

St. James Hospital announces the addition of the da Vinci® Surgical System, a state-of-the-art robotic-assisted technology designed to provide patients with a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery. This advanced

system, now available for procedures like hernia and gallbladder surgeries, enhances surgeons precision and control, leading to faster recovery times and improved patient outcomes.

The da Vinci® Surgical System, known as the gold standard in robotic surgery, allows surgeons to perform complex procedures through just one to two centimeter incisions. Using a high-definition 3D camera and miniaturized instruments, the system enables surgeons to operate with unmatched accuracy, reducing the risk of complications and minimizing recovery time.

“Our investment in the da Vinci® system represents St. James Hospital’s ongoing commitment to providing our community with the most advanced and effective care,” said Wendy Disbrow, CEO of St. James Hospital. “With this technology, our surgeons are able to offer a level of precision that greatly benefits our patients, ensuring faster healing and a quicker return to daily life.”

Dr. Tim Reidlinger, General Surgeon at St. James Hospital, shared his enthusiasm about this new technology. “The da Vinci® system is a game-changer for both surgeons and patients. It gives us the ability to perform intricate surgeries with enhanced precision, all while being minimally invasive. Patients experience smaller incisions, less pain, and a faster recovery, which is a huge advantage.”

St. James Hospital Board Chair Pete Wall also voiced his support for this innovation. “As a community hospital, we are proud to provide our patients with access to world-class care, right here in Hornell. The introduction of robotic-assisted surgery reaffirms our commitment to leading in healthcare advancements and continuing to raise the bar for medical excellence.”

“We’re proud to bring the advanced technologies of the da Vinci® Surgical System to St. James Hospital and offer state-of-the-art minimally invasive surgeries to patients in Steuben County and beyond,” said UR Medicine Chief of Strategic Integration Steven I. Goldstein. “Not only does it further our ability to provide the highest quality care, but it is an important tool to attract surgeons to the area, as robotic techniques are taught in medical school and new surgeons are often eager to work in hospitals with advanced robotic technologies.”

Benefits of da Vinci® Surgery:

• Smaller Incisions: Reduced scarring, pain, and recovery time.
• Enhanced Precision: Magnified 3D visuals and precise instruments help avoid damage to delicate structures.
• Less Invasive: Shorter hospital stays and lower risk of infection.

For more information about the da Vinci® robotic-assisted surgery or to find out if this option is right for you, visit our website davinci.urmc.edu. Advances happen here.

St. James Hospital Announces Extended Urgent Care Hours to Better Serve the Community

Tuesday, September 17, 2024

St. James Hospital is pleased to announce the extension of its Urgent Care hours to provide more comprehensive and accessible care to the community. Starting Sunday, September 22, St. James Urgent Care will be open seven days a week from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. This expansion is designed to better meet the needs of patients seeking medical attention for non-life-threatening conditions. In addition to the change in hours, the St. James Occupational Health Clinic will relocate to Urgent Care starting Sunday, September 22.

“We are thrilled to expand our Urgent Care services to serve our community,” said Wendy Disbrow, President and CEO of St. James Hospital. “This change reflects our ongoing commitment to increasing access to healthcare for all our patients. By extending our hours, we aim to make it easier for individuals to receive the care they need when they need it.”

St. James Urgent Care is staffed by a dedicated team of healthcare professionals, including four advanced practice providers: Shannon Billings, NP, Sarah Ford, PA, Katie Pizura, PA, and Yohetsor Hargoe, NP. They are available to treat a variety of non-emergency medical conditions, ensuring that patients receive timely and quality care.

“We are happy to expand our Urgent Care hours to service patients experiencing non-urgent medical issues like colds, coughs, minor lacerations that need stitches, sprains, and strains, and more,” said Kaleigh Porcaro, Director of Nursing. “Our team is committed to delivering exceptional care to our patients, and these new hours will allow us to do so more effectively.”

St. James Urgent Care is conveniently located in Suite 103 of the Medical Office Building, 7309 Seneca Road North in Hornell, offering a wide range of services to address common medical concerns. These include treatment for minor illnesses such as colds, flu, coughs, sore throats, and ear infections, as well as care for minor injuries like cuts that need stitches, sprains, strains, and minor burns. The facility is also equipped to handle other non-emergent conditions like allergies, rashes, and mild asthma attacks. No appointment is necessary. For more information, please visit stjames.urmc.edu/urgentcare or call (607) 385 – 3800.

St. James Hospital Welcomes New General Surgeon, Timothy Reidlinger, MD

Monday, September 9, 2024

St. James Hospital welcomes General Surgeon Timothy Reidlinger, MD, to the General Surgery team. Based fulltime in Hornell, Dr. Reidlinger will provide broad-based general surgery services at St. James Hospital. He specializes in surgery of the gall bladder, hernias, anorectal disease, colon, stomach upper and lower endoscopy, skin cancer, port placement and skin/soft skin infections.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Timothy Reidlinger to the General Surgery team at St. James Hospital,” said Wendy Disbrow, President and CEO of St. James Hospital. “His broad expertise and commitment to patient-centered care will be a tremendous asset to our community. We look forward to the positive impact he will have on our patients and their families."

Dr. Reidlinger received his medical degree from Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine in Scranton Pennsylvania and later went to residency at the University of Rochester in General Surgery.

“While growing up I always wanted to be a doctor, and soon after starting medical school I knew a career as a surgeon was what I would be most passionate about.” said Dr. Reidlinger. “I enjoy the “see problem, fix problem” nature of being a surgeon, and I especially love seeing the difference it makes in patients’ lives when you are able to help them in such a tangible way.”

When asked about his philosophy of care he stated. “My philosophy of care is to not only provide the best care I possibly can to each patient, but to also treat my patients with the same amount of respect that I would want any of my family members to be treated with. I think it’s an incredibly important part of the surgeon-patient relationship to make sure we are both on the same page and that the patient feels 100% confident in entrusting their care to me.”

Dr. Reidlinger will join the St. James General Surgery team consisting of Dr. Brad Hensley, Dr. Theodor Kaufman, and Dr. Andrew Powers. While St. James has been fortunate to have General Surgeon Dr. Asfandyar Khan as part of the team, he will be leaving St. James Hospital on September 15.

Dr. Khan shares, “Over the past four years, it has been an immense honor and pleasure to be the community’s general surgeon. I will be departing St.  James Hospital on September 15 to relocate out of state to be closer to my family.  I have full confidence in Dr. Reidlinger’s expertise and commitment to providing you with the exceptional care you deserve.”

Dr. Reidlinger’s office is located in the Specialty Clinic, Suite 102 of the Medical Office Building, 7309 Seneca Road North, Hornell. For more information, please visit stjames.urmc.edu/surgery

Shick Family Charity Golf Classic Raises $15,000 for St. James Foundation

Tuesday, July 30, 2024

On Friday, June 28, the Shick family hosted the 10th Annual Shick Family Charity Golf Classic, raising a record $15,000 for the St. James Foundation. This year's event was particularly significant as long-time golf classic organizer Becky Shick passed the responsibility of organizing the tournament to Abbie Shick.

“I could not be more proud of Abbie and the excitement and energy she brings to the tournament.” Becky Shick stated, “Although she didn’t have the opportunity to meet her grandfather, she certainly has heard enough about him that she surely feels like she knew him. She had a very special relationship with her grandmother. I am thrilled that she stepped up to take the tournament into the future and continue to honor my parents’ memories. This event is very special to our family.”

The golf classic was founded by the Shick family in 2014 to honor their patriarch, William Shick, who passed away in 1974. For several years, matriarch Anita Shick led her family and helped organize the event until her passing in 2021. The family has carried on both Anita and William’s legacies by honoring them each year at the golf classic. In 2016, the family decided to dedicate all event proceeds to the St. James Foundation.

“It is with great pleasure that I get to host this event in honor of my grandparents.” said Abbie Shick, “When my grandmother was sick, St. James Hospital gave her the finest care we could ask for. There is comfort in knowing they would both be proud, especially supporting one of the best causes in the community.” 

With this year’s tournament proceeds, over $15,000 in total will go to the St. James Foundation, for a total of over $75,000 donated to St. James in the past eight years.

“We deeply appreciate the Shick family’s generosity and dedication to our hospital and community.” said Wendy Disbrow, President and CEO of St. James Hospital. “This annual golf classic has become a renowned, well-attended event that our community members love to play in. We are very appreciative to be the recipients of this donation, which will directly support patient care.”

Welcoming Otolaryngologist Katherine Rieth, MD

Tuesday, July 2, 2024

Clinical Overview

Dr. Rieth graduated from the University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine, where she earned her medical degree. She then pursued her residency in Otolaryngology at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, honing her skills and gaining valuable experience in the field of Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) care. 

Effective Monday, July 1 Dr. Rieth will see patients in the Medical Office Building Specialty Clinic Suite 102. She specializes in:

• Ear, nose and throat conditions in pediatrics and adults
• Pediatric ear tubes
• Procedures and treatments for sleep apnea in pediatrics
• Tonsil concerns for pediatrics and adults
• Hearing loss and auditory system disorders
• Head and neck diseases, including salivary gland issues
• Neoplasms and swallowing difficulties
• Sinus disease (medical and surgical therapy)
• Voice disorders.

Dr. Rieth is deeply committed to patient-centered care, believing that every individual deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion. She expressed her eagerness to start her practice at SJH, stating, "I know that ENT is a much-needed specialty in the Southern Tier. I am honored to help provide this much-needed service to Hornell and its surrounding areas. I am excited to be working with the leadership and clinical/surgical staff at St. James to bring evidence-based ENT care to individuals in this region."

Personal Endeavors

Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Rieth has a profound interest in global health and surgery. She has actively participated in international programs, including the HUGS Foundation, which provides free medical care to children and adolescents with conditions such as microtia, cleft lip, cleft palate, and other facial deformities.

In her personal endeavors Dr. Rieth enjoys spending time with her husband and two boys, horseback archery, practicing Kung Fu - which she holds a black belt in, and cooking.

Dr. Reith is actively accepting new patients. New patient appointments can be made by calling the Specialty Clinic at (607) 385 – 3820.