A New PTSD Care Model Helps Lianne Find Support |
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Having received treatment for the PTSD she experienced after a severe injury, Lianne is again able to enjoy traveling with her family. |
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After a medical emergency changed her life, Lianne Csicsek found herself facing more than just physical recovery. While visiting her daughter, she experienced a severe hypoglycemic seizure that led to a serious fall, surgery, and weeks of healing.
“I was afraid of ever feeling that way again,” Lianne said. At Boston Medical Center, Lianne came in for follow-up care but was still dealing with anxiety and emotional stress. While waiting for a neuropsychology evaluation, her primary care physician connected her to a research study at BMC focused on improving access to care for people experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
“At the time, I didn’t fully realize that what I was feeling could be PTSD,” she said. “But I knew I needed help.” Through a web-based program that connects primary care and specialty mental health services, Lianne was able to access support without delay. BMC Health System is the first to implement this approach, designed to help close longstanding gaps in PTSD treatment. She learned practical tools like breathing exercises and stress management techniques, without having to relive her trauma.
“The tools I took away were huge for me,” she said. “Learning how to breathe through stress, let go of things I can’t change, and calm myself in the moment made a real difference.” Over time, she regained confidence and returned to activities that once felt overwhelming, including flying on a plane by herself for the first time since the seizure and traveling again with her family.
Lianne’s experience reflects a larger challenge in health care. Research shows that many people living with PTSD never receive treatment. To help close this gap, BMC is leading new research to expand access to care in primary care settings, connecting patients to the support they need earlier. |
| Read More About Lianne’s Journey Here → |
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Primary Care, Urgent Care, Or the Emergency Room:
Where to Go When You Need Care |
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Start With Your Primary Care Provider When You Can
Your primary care provider (PCP) is your main point of contact for your health. They help you stay well and manage your care over time.
Primary care is best for:
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Annual checkups and preventive care, like screenings and vaccines
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Common illnesses, like colds, the flu, or minor infections
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Managing ongoing conditions, like diabetes or high blood pressure
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Referrals to specialists, like mental health or dermatology
Availability:
Visits are usually scheduled in advance. Hours may vary by location.
Use Urgent Care for Same-Day Needs
Urgent care is a good option when you need care quickly, but it is not an emergency.
Urgent care can help with:
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Fever, sore throat, or flu-like symptoms
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Minor injuries, like sprains or small cuts
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X-rays, lab tests, and prescriptions
Availability:
No appointment is needed. Many locations offer walk-in care with extended hours, including evenings and weekends.
Go To the Emergency Department for Serious Symptoms
The Emergency Department (ED) is for serious or life-threatening conditions that need immediate care.
Go to the ER if you have:
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Chest pain or trouble breathing
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Signs of a stroke, like sudden weakness or difficulty speaking
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Severe injuries or heavy bleeding
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Any condition that feels life-threatening
Availability:
Emergency Departments are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Not Sure Where to Start?
If you are not sure where to go, start by calling your primary care provider. They can help guide you to the right level of care.
Appointments are available across our system, including our main campus and community locations such as:
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| Discover More About Primary Care at BMC → |
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Gleicy Finds Answers at BMC After Years of Pain |
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April is Sjögren’s Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about Sjögren’s disease, a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the body’s moisture-producing glands. It most often causes dry eyes and dry mouth, but it can also affect other parts of the body, leading to fatigue, joint pain, and additional symptoms.
For Gleicy, getting the right diagnosis took years before she arrived at Boston |
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before she arrived at Boston Medical Center. While living in Brazil, she experienced repeated episodes of painful facial swelling that were initially diagnosed as mumps. The symptoms kept coming back and often made it difficult to eat or drink. “The pain was so strong that it could get to a 9.9 out of 10,” she remembers. “I would go a week without being able to eat or even drink water properly, just through a straw. And my eyes were so dry they felt like sandpaper.”
After moving to the U.S., the cycle continued until she was referred to the rheumatology department at Boston Medical Center. There, access to interpreter services made a critical difference in her care. “When I arrived at Boston Medical Center, my English was quite poor, but I was able to communicate a little bit with the man at the front desk,” remembers Gleicy. “He was super nice to me and helped me to my appointment and got me an interpreter. It was the best thing that ever could have happened to me.” With the support of an interpreter, she was able to clearly explain her symptoms and connect with rheumatologist Dr. Berk Degirmenci. He diagnosed her with Sjögren’s disease and took time to walk her through what was happening in her body.
Although there is no cure for Sjögren’s disease, there are many simple treatments that help. Since starting on prescription eye drops and a mouthwash six months ago, Gleicy has had no symptoms. “I used to always be at the hospital, but today I’m able to take better care of my four kids,” she says. “My quality of life has improved from zero to 100.”
Today, Gleicy shares her story to encourage others to seek care and not ignore ongoing symptoms. |
| See More on How Gleicy Got the Right Diagnosis at BMC → |
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BMC’s Curbside Care: Expanding Access to Postpartum Care Across Boston |
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During Black Maternal Health Week (April 11–17), BMC's new and improved Curbside Care van took a tour around campus so the BMC community could learn more about our innovative care model. Now in its third year, Curbside Care brings postpartum and newborn care directly to the doorstep of families in Boston.
NBC Boston joined the tour and spoke with Rosha Foreman, Director of Midwifery Services at BMC, about what drives her work with this program. "This is the kind of care I've always wanted to provide, and I think the rest of the team would say the same thing. This is why we became healthcare workers... to provide wraparound, comprehensive care."
BMC's Curbside Care is an innovative mobile health unit aiming to eliminate barriers to care. It travels to homes and supports both birthing parents and babies during the first four to six weeks after delivery, which is one of the most critical periods in health and development. Generously supported by the Boston Celtics Shamrock Foundation, with funding from Tufts Health Plan, Curbside Care provides newborn check-ups and postpartum recovery care, and additional vital services such as lactation support, mental health screening, and family planning support.
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Celebrating Patient Experience Week: April 27 – May 1
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At Boston Medical Center, we are committed to providing exceptional care for every patient and family. During Patient Experience Week, we take time to engage with you and recognize the people and programs that help make your care more supportive, respectful, and responsive to your needs.
Earlier this week, members of BMC’s Patient Experience team and Patient Family Advisory Council shared information about their work and mission as well as freebies and activities for patients and visitors passing by to take part in. It was an exciting opportunity for the BMC community to learn about the ways that the patient voice is heard and the people who advocate for it.
We are grateful for the trust you place in us and remain committed to making every experience at BMC as positive as possible. These efforts are part of our ongoing work to listen, learn, and improve, so we can better meet your needs and provide care that feels personal and compassionate. Learn More About the Patient Family Advisory Council at BMC.
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Celebrating Patient Experience Week: April 27 – May 1
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At Boston Medical Center, we are committed to providing exceptional care for every patient and family. During Patient Experience Week, we take time to engage with you and recognize the people and programs that help make your care more supportive, respectful, and responsive to your needs.
Earlier this week, members of BMC’s Patient Experience team and Patient Family Advisory Council shared information about their work and mission as well as freebies and activities for patients and visitors passing by to take part in. It was an exciting opportunity for the BMC community to learn about the ways that the patient voice is heard and the people who advocate for it.
We are grateful for the trust you place in us and remain committed to making every experience at BMC as positive as possible. These efforts are part of our ongoing work to listen, learn, and improve, so we can better meet your needs and provide care that feels personal and compassionate. Learn More About the Patient Family Advisory Council at BMC. |
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BMC Boston Marathon Recap
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We’re still feeling the energy and excitement of Marathon Monday! Our 72 Team BMC runners participated in the 130th Boston Marathon, raising more than $800,000 and counting for BMC.
Thank you to all who supported them by donating, sending messages of encouragement, cheering along the route, and joining us at our finish line celebration. You gave the team the boost they needed to tackle the course and help BMC continue to transform healthcare. Special thanks to all the volunteers, the Boston Athletic Association, and the Bank of America Boston Marathon Official Charity Program. Get Involved and Support Team BMC.
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BMC Boston Marathon Recap
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We’re still feeling the energy and excitement of Marathon Monday! Our 72 Team BMC runners participated in the 130th Boston Marathon, raising more than $800,000 and counting for BMC.
Thank you to all who supported them by donating, sending messages of encouragement, cheering along the route, and joining us at our finish line celebration. You gave the team the boost they needed to tackle the course and help BMC continue to transform healthcare. Special thanks to all the volunteers, the Boston Athletic Association, and the Bank of America Boston Marathon Official Charity Program. Get Involved and Support Team BMC.
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Men’s Health Community Conversation Brings Energy, Screenings, and Candid Dialogue to Brockton
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On April 10, BMC South hosted Men’s Health Night in Brockton as part of the Men’s Health March Madness initiative, bringing together community members, leaders, and healthcare partners for an evening focused on screenings, education, and open conversation.
Held at the Moakley Conference Center, the event created a high-energy, welcoming space for “gloves up, guards down” conversations about men’s health. Attendees engaged directly with clinical teams, participated in health screenings, and connected with resources focused on prevention and ongoing care.
The main event featured a panel of trusted physicians, including BMC’s Dr. Thea James, Vice President of Mission and Co-Executive Director of the Health Equity Accelerator at BMC, Dr. Sumon Roy, an interventional and structural cardiologist at BMC Health System, and Dr. Kevin Simon, Boston’s first Chief Behavioral Health Officer, and an attending pediatric psychiatrist and addiction medicine specialist at Boston Children’s Hospital, and addressed common myths, answered audience questions, and encouraged proactive steps toward better health through lifestyle changes, preventive care, and speaking up in clinical settings.
The evening also included support from community partners, including Team Pollard Boxing Club. See More from the Event.
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Men’s Health Community Conversation Brings Energy, Screenings, and Candid Dialogue to Brockton
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On April 10, BMC South hosted Men’s Health Night in Brockton as part of the Men’s Health March Madness initiative, bringing together community members, leaders, and healthcare partners for an evening focused on screenings, education, and open conversation.
Held at the Moakley Conference Center, the event created a high-energy, welcoming space for “gloves up, guards down” conversations about men’s health. Attendees engaged directly with clinical teams, participated in health screenings, and connected with resources focused on prevention and ongoing care.
The main event featured a panel of trusted physicians, including BMC’s Dr. Thea James, Vice President of Mission and Co-Executive Director of the Health Equity Accelerator at BMC, Dr. Sumon Roy, an interventional and structural cardiologist at BMC Health System, and Dr. Kevin Simon, Boston’s first Chief Behavioral Health Officer, and an attending pediatric psychiatrist and addiction medicine specialist at Boston Children’s Hospital, and addressed common myths, answered audience questions, and encouraged proactive steps toward better health through lifestyle changes, preventive care, and speaking up in clinical settings.
The evening also included support from community partners, including Team Pollard Boxing Club. See More from the Event.
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BMC Leader Honored for Climate Leadership |
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Boston Medical Center is proud to share that Bob Biggio, Vice President and Chief Sustainability & Real Estate Officer, was named a 2026 recipient of the Boston Climate Leader Awards in the Energy category.
Bob leads systemwide sustainability and capital projects, helping drive efforts to reduce environmental impact while strengthening the future of healthcare. His work continues to position BMC as a leader in building a more sustainable and resilient Boston.
Awardees were recognized at a citywide ceremony hosted by Mayor Michelle Wu on April 28. Learn More About the Award.
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BMC Leader Honored for Climate Leadership |
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Boston Medical Center is proud to share that Bob Biggio, Vice President and Chief Sustainability & Real Estate Officer, was named a 2026 recipient of the Boston Climate Leader Awards in the Energy category.
Bob leads systemwide sustainability and capital projects, helping drive efforts to reduce environmental impact while strengthening the future of healthcare. His work continues to position BMC as a leader in building a more sustainable and resilient Boston.
Awardees were recognized at a citywide ceremony hosted by Mayor Michelle Wu on April 28. Learn More About the Award.
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BMC’s Dr. Pria Anand Wins Prestigious Literary Science Award |
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BMC's Dr. Pria Anand, a neurologist at Boston Medical Center, has received the PEN/E.O. Wilson Literary Science Writing Award for her book The Mind Electric.
This national award recognizes outstanding writing that helps people better understand science and medicine. For patients, it reflects the depth of expertise and care our neurology team brings to every visit.
In their citation, the judges wrote: “Pria Anand’s The Mind Electric probes fundamental questions about the nature of the brain, the mind, and the soul with elegant prose, wit, and erudition… Her theme, that we are not the sum of our pathologies, but individuals with complex and contradictory stories, will resonate with every reader.”
Dr. Anand’s work highlights an important part of care at BMC, seeing each patient as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. Her approach to neurology focuses on listening, understanding each person’s experience, and building care plans that reflect their needs and goals.
The PEN America Literary Awards are among the most respected honors for writers in the United States. Learn more about Dr. Anand and neurology care at BMC.
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BMC’s Dr. Pria Anand Wins Prestigious Literary Science Award |
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BMC's Dr. Pria Anand, a neurologist at Boston Medical Center, has received the PEN/E.O. Wilson Literary Science Writing Award for her book The Mind Electric.
This national award recognizes outstanding writing that helps people better understand science and medicine. For patients, it reflects the depth of expertise and care our neurology team brings to every visit.
In their citation, the judges wrote: “Pria Anand’s The Mind Electric probes fundamental questions about the nature of the brain, the mind, and the soul with elegant prose, wit, and erudition… Her theme, that we are not the sum of our pathologies, but individuals with complex and contradictory stories, will resonate with every reader.”
Dr. Anand’s work highlights an important part of care at BMC, seeing each patient as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. Her approach to neurology focuses on listening, understanding each person’s experience, and building care plans that reflect their needs and goals.
The PEN America Literary Awards are among the most respected honors for writers in the United States. Learn more about Dr. Anand and neurology care 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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9 Things Doctors Wish Millennials Knew About Managing Their Health
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A recent Everyday Health article highlights a growing concern, many millennials are skipping preventive screenings even as certain cancers rise in younger adults. Dr. Emily C. Cleveland Manchanda, Emergency Medicine physician at BMC, shares why staying on top of routine care matters and how simple planning can make a difference.
“Keeping this calendar up to date lets you stay an active part of managing your own health,” she says.
The piece underscores how annual visits and personalized screening schedules can help catch conditions earlier and support better long-term health outcomes. Read the Full Article Here. |
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9 Things Doctors Wish Millennials Knew About Managing Their Health
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A recent Everyday Health article highlights a growing concern, many millennials are skipping preventive screenings even as certain cancers rise in younger adults. Dr. Emily C. Cleveland Manchanda, Emergency Medicine physician at BMC, shares why staying on top of routine care matters and how simple planning can make a difference.
“Keeping this calendar up to date lets you stay an active part of managing your own health,” she says.
The piece underscores how annual visits and personalized screening schedules can help catch conditions earlier and support better long-term health outcomes. Read the Full Article Here. |
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“The provider did an excellent job with informing me about my procedures, about my stay in the hospital, about having sent my medications over to the pharmacy. She did an excellent job. Her presentation was wonderful. Her character and demeanor was very pleasant. And I really felt informed and I felt respected, which is the most important thing for me. I felt heard.” – BMC Primary Care Patient |
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“The provider did an excellent job with informing me about my procedures, about my stay in the hospital, about having sent my medications over to the pharmacy. She did an excellent job. Her presentation was wonderful. Her character and demeanor was very pleasant. And I really felt informed and I felt respected, which is the most important thing for me. I felt heard.” – BMC Primary Care 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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