Explore the August Issue: |
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FEATURED STORY |
Finding Hope and Validation at BMC's Long COVID Clinic |
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If you're still experiencing symptoms weeks or months after having COVID-19, you're not alone—and more importantly, you're not "making it up." Dr. Naomi Hamburg, cardiologist and cardiac lead of BMC's ReCOVer Long COVID Clinic, sees patients every day who've been dismissed by other clinicians for symptoms that have been described as “in their head”. These symptoms include brain fog, chest pain, and exercise intolerance.
"There's so much skepticism," Dr. Hamburg explains. "These are often young, previously healthy people who can't do activities they used to do—some can't even handle grocery shopping or laundry. But because standard tests come back normal, they're not taken seriously."
BMC ReCOVer brings together specialists from infectious diseases, pulmonary, neurology, speech pathology, and cardiology under one coordinated program. BMC has established itself as a leader in comprehensive long COVID care— taking care of patients across the region, including those with limited care options for cardiac-related symptoms. The inclusion of expertise from BMC’s cardiac program, recently ranked top 50 in the nation by U.S. News and World Report, means long COVID patients receive specialized heart testing to produce concrete evidence of what they’re experiencing as previously dismissed symptoms. This evidence-based diagnosis helps them to access support and better manage all aspects of long COVID. Hamburg focuses patients on navigating exercise limitations with long COVID and understanding how to improve their quality of life.
"It's amazing how appreciative people are about having some knowledge and being taken seriously,” she says. |
| Learn More About BMC’s Recover Long COVID Clinic Here → |
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Peggy’s Patient Journey And How Her Cardiology Team Makes All The Difference |
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Peggy James has been through a lot in her 67 years—heart issues, chronic pain, and mental health challenges. “But right now, I’m feeling good,” she says. Since having a heart attack in her 50s, Peggy has entrusted the care of her heart to the Cardiovascular Center at BMC.
Peggy says the open relationship she has with cardiologist Dr. Claudia Hochberg has made all |
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the difference in her health. “She sees me as a person,” Peggy says. “She doesn’t make me feel bad about anything that I am, or that I do. That helps me get better care. She’s known me for so long, I know she trusts me. And I trust her.”
Today, Peggy is managing several health conditions, including high blood pressure, heart failure, blocked arteries, chronic pain from sciatica, lung disease, anxiety, and depression. She says sometimes her care can feel like a lot to keep track of, but at the same time, Dr. Hochberg and Peggy’s primary care provider, Dr. Emily Hurstack, closely track her care and provide the guidance and compassion that help Peggy stay on top of everything. Together, they’ve built a partnership rooted in mutual commitment — Peggy shows up for her health, and her providers show up for her.
“Dr. Hurstack is very good about keeping up with me,” says Peggy. “If I leave her a message, I get a response back immediately. I wouldn’t trade her for anything in the world. And Dr. Hochberg is an excellent cardiologist who always looks out for me above and beyond cardiology. She tells me what to do, and I do it.” |
| Read Peggy's Full Story Here → |
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Heading Back to School with a Healthy Start |
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As you check off the final items on your back-to-school list, make vaccinations part of your child’s preparation. Staying current on immunizations protects your child, your child’s classmates, and the wider community—helping ensure that the school year begins with learning, not sick days. |
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Why Immunization is Important
August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM), which the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) describes as a time to emphasize how vaccines protect people of all ages by reducing both the risk of infection and the severity of illness.
“Now more than ever, it is important to remember one of the critical roles of vaccines, to decrease the severity of infections,” says Dr. Sabrina A. Assoumou, an infectious disease specialist at BMC. “We recommend vaccination to decrease the chances of getting infected and to lower the chances that an infection would lead to hospitalization.” |
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Required Vaccinations for Massachusetts Students
It’s okay if you don’t have the required vaccinations memorized. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has outlined the vaccines and dosages students must have to attend school. Standard required vaccinations include:
It’s also a good idea to make sure your student has received a seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccines. The CDC recommends an annual flu shot for everyone six months and older, as well as a COVID-19 vaccination for all eligible age groups.
Unsure if your student’s vaccination schedule is up to date? Call your healthcare provider to confirm and stay current on immunizations to keep your child, their classmates, and the broader community safe. |
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A Candid Conversation on Women’s Health: Getting Real About Health, Happiness, and Hot Flashes
Earlier this month BMC Health System hosted a panel discussion centered on Black women’s health and wellness. The event, held on Martha’s Vineyard brought together physicians, advocates and leading public figures for a candid conversation that pushed back on health myths and the shame that many women carry, particularly as they enter perimenopause and menopause.
Here are three key takeaways from the conversation:
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Knowledge is power. For generations, women have been taught to be ashamed of normal bodily functions, and to not speak of subjects – such as perimenopause and menopause – that were considered taboo. Speaking up and sharing stories will help future generations to better understand and be ready for this stage of life.
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You deserve to feel better. Are you feeling fatigued or feeling unwell? Don’t accept this as being “normal” — particularly as you age. Recognize and empower yourself to say, “I deserve better” and ask for help.
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Speak up for your health. Being vocal is being an advocate for yourself, for others, and for future generations. Speak your truth and resist the urge to model the suffering of previous generations.
We acknowledge and thank our thoughtful and dynamic panel guests – Dr. Sharon Malone, Susan Kelechi Watson, Dr. Myechia Minter-Jordan, Tabitha Brown, and Dr. Christine Crawford – and our moderator, Petrina Martin Cherry, VP of Community Engagement and External Affairs, for sharing their real-life experiences and helping to model how to support and elevate the voices of others.
To learn more about our speakers and the thought-provoking insights shared, see our recap of the events on HealthCity.
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A Candid Conversation on Women’s Health: Getting Real About Health, Happiness, and Hot Flashes
Earlier this month BMC Health System hosted a panel discussion centered on Black women’s health and wellness. The event, held on Martha’s Vineyard brought together physicians, advocates and leading public figures for a candid conversation that pushed back on health myths and the shame that many women carry, particularly as they enter perimenopause and menopause.
Here are three key takeaways from the conversation:
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Knowledge is power. For generations, women have been taught to be ashamed of normal bodily functions, and to not speak of subjects – such as perimenopause and menopause – that were considered taboo. Speaking up and sharing stories will help future generations to better understand and be ready for this stage of life.
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You deserve to feel better. Are you feeling fatigued or feeling unwell? Don’t accept this as being “normal” — particularly as you age. Recognize and empower yourself to say, “I deserve better” and ask for help.
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Speak up for your health. Being vocal is being an advocate for yourself, for others, and for future generations. Speak your truth and resist the urge to model the suffering of previous generations.
We acknowledge and thank our thoughtful and dynamic panel guests – Dr. Sharon Malone, Susan Kelechi Watson, Dr. Myechia Minter-Jordan, Tabitha Brown, and Dr. Christine Crawford – and our moderator, Petrina Martin Cherry, VP of Community Engagement and External Affairs, for sharing their real-life experiences and helping to model how to support and elevate the voices of others.
To learn more about our speakers and the thought-provoking insights shared, see our recap of the events on HealthCity.
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Celebrating Community Health Centers
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Boston Medical Center Health System celebrated the vital work of local community health centers during National Health Center Week. Held August 3–9, 2025, this week was a nationwide tribute to the vital role community health centers play in delivering accessible, high-quality care in communities across America.
Events to commemorate the week included Manet Community Health’s “Recognition and Reflection” event, and South Boston Community Health Center broke ground on a long-anticipated building expansion, marking a new chapter in compassionate, community-centered care for South Boston and beyond. Get to Know All of BMC’s CHCs. |
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Celebrating Community Health Centers
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Boston Medical Center Health System celebrated the vital work of local community health centers during National Health Center Week. Held August 3–9, 2025, this week was a nationwide tribute to the vital role community health centers play in delivering accessible, high-quality care in communities across America.
Events to commemorate the week included Manet Community Health’s “Recognition and Reflection” event, and South Boston Community Health Center broke ground on a long-anticipated building expansion, marking a new chapter in compassionate, community-centered care for South Boston and beyond. Get to Know All of BMC’s CHCs.
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From Remembrance for Recovery
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August 31 is Overdose Awareness Day, a time to honor those lost to addiction and acknowledge the ongoing impact of substance use disorder on individuals, families, and communities.
At BMC, the Grayken Center for Addiction leads one of the nation’s most comprehensive hospital-based addiction programs. We are here for patients at every stage of treatment and support— and every service we provide is grounded in respect, equity, and proven care.
In recognition of Overdose Awareness Day and National Recovery Month in September, join us for upcoming events:
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International Overdose Awareness Day Flag Planting. Liberty Mall, Boston Common (across from the State House)
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Recovery Month Series: Our Recovery Stories. Zoom discussion and didactic. September 9, 10:00 – 11:30 AM ET
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Recovery Month Series: Community Recovery Support Groups: Not All the Same. Zoom discussion and didactic. September 18, 3:00 – 4:30 PM ET
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Recovery Month Series: Parenting in Recovery. Zoom discussion and didactic. September 23, 3:00 – 4:30 PM ET
If you or a loved one needs professional, dedicated assistance, BMC is here to help. Click here to register for our Recovery Month Series Events. |
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From Remembrance for Recovery
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August 31 is Overdose Awareness Day, a time to honor those lost to addiction and acknowledge the ongoing impact of substance use disorder on individuals, families, and communities.
At BMC, the Grayken Center for Addiction leads one of the nation’s most comprehensive hospital-based addiction programs. We are here for patients at every stage of treatment and support— and every service we provide is grounded in respect, equity, and proven care.
In recognition of Overdose Awareness Day and National Recovery Month in September, join us for upcoming events:
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International Overdose Awareness Day Flag Planting. Liberty Mall, Boston Common (across from the State House)
-
Recovery Month Series: Our Recovery Stories. Zoom discussion and didactic. September 9, 10:00 – 11:30 AM ET
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Recovery Month Series: Community Recovery Support Groups: Not All the Same. Zoom discussion and didactic. September 18, 3:00 – 4:30 PM ET
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Recovery Month Series: Parenting in Recovery. Zoom discussion and didactic. September 23, 3:00 – 4:30 PM ET
If you or a loved one needs professional, dedicated assistance, BMC is here to help. Click here to register for our Recovery Month Series Events. |
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BMC Health System Recognized for Excellence in Cardiovascular and Heart Care |
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BMC Health System continues to be recognized across our hospitals for high-quality cardiovascular care and addressing related health risks in the communities we serve.
BMC Cardiology, Heart & Vascular Surgery recently ranked among the top 50 in the country by U.S. News & World Report. BMC Brighton and BMC South joined BMC in recent recognition for clinical innovation and excellent patient. BMC Brighton was recognized as “High Performing” for aortic valve surgery, heart arrhythmia, heart bypass surgery, and pacemaker implantation, while BMC South was recognized for heart attack care.
Boston Medical Center, BMC Brighton and BMC South have also recently been honored with multiple Get With The Guidelines® awards from the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association, underscoring our commitment to delivering the latest evidence-based care for cardiovascular patients.
BMC - Stroke Honor Roll Elite, Advanced Therapy, and Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll
BMC Brighton – Stroke Gold Plus, Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus, Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll
BMC South – Stroke Gold Plus, Stroke Honor Roll Elite, Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll
Learn More About Our Get With The Guidelines® Awards. |
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BMC Health System Recognized for Excellence in Cardiovascular and Heart Care |
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BMC Health System continues to be recognized across our hospitals for high-quality cardiovascular care and addressing related health risks in the communities we serve.
BMC Cardiology, Heart & Vascular Surgery recently ranked among the top 50 in the country by U.S. News & World Report. BMC Brighton and BMC South joined BMC in recent recognition for clinical innovation and excellent patient. BMC Brighton was recognized as “High Performing” for aortic valve surgery, heart arrhythmia, heart bypass surgery, and pacemaker implantation, while BMC South was recognized for heart attack care.
Boston Medical Center, BMC Brighton and BMC South have also recently been honored with multiple Get With The Guidelines® awards from the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association, underscoring our commitment to delivering the latest evidence-based care for cardiovascular patients.
BMC - Stroke Honor Roll Elite, Advanced Therapy, and Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll
BMC Brighton – Stroke Gold Plus, Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus, Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll
BMC South – Stroke Gold Plus, Stroke Honor Roll Elite, Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll
Learn More About Our Get With The Guidelines® Awards. |
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HealthTrust - Social Stewardship Award |
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We’re honored to receive the 2025 Social Stewardship Award from HealthTrust, which recognizes healthcare organizations making a measurable impact on community health through social, economic, and environmental initiatives. Learn more about sustainability at BMC. |
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HealthTrust - Social Stewardship Award |
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We’re honored to receive the 2025 Social Stewardship Award from HealthTrust, which recognizes healthcare organizations making a measurable impact on community health through social, economic, and environmental initiatives. Learn more about sustainability at BMC. |
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BMC In The News |
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We’re excited to spotlight recent media coverage that features BMC experts sharing insights on timely health topics. From national outlets to local platforms, these stories reflect our commitment to improving care, advancing equity, and supporting our patients and communities every step of the way. |
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Expert Advice from BMC’s Dr. Siracuse
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"Just be as healthy as you can leading up to the surgery. It will help make the operation as durable as possible."
An aortobifemoral bypass is a surgical procedure that redirects blood flow around a major blocked artery in the groin or abdomen. In a WebMD article, Jeffrey Siracuse, MD, MBA, Chief of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery at BMC, explains what patients can expect before, during, and after the procedure and shares tips for a smooth recovery.
BMC's heart and vascular program was recently recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of the top 50 across the nation. Read more. |
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“The doctors I saw were both really, really fantastic... attentive and answered a lot of questions that I’ve had for a long time. So, I thought they did the absolute best job. I wish I was seeing them for all medical stuff that I have.” - BMC Cardiology patient |
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“The doctors I saw were both really, really fantastic... attentive and answered a lot of questions that I’ve had for a long time. So, I thought they did the absolute best job. I wish I was seeing them for all medical stuff that I have.” - BMC Cardiology patient |
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“In Your Words” features patient comments from patient experience outreach surveys. We appreciate your time completing these surveys and for sharing your thoughts with us. The information gathered in these surveys is used to learn where we can improve, to continue to provide exceptional care to all. |
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