Julia Bomfim on behalf of Tallahassee Memorial

1
PAIN MANAGEMENT LANDING PAGE
Introduction content block (title: Center for Pain Management)
Control your pain. Don’t let your pain control you. The Tallahassee Memorial Center for Pain
Management is a state-of-the-art surgical facility offering a comprehensive pain management program
to help patients cope with the debilitating effects of chronic pain.
Featured Area (title: Our Services)
Feature One Photo: senior playing tennis.jpg
Feature One Title: Neck and arm pain
Feature One Caption: Cervical epidural steroid injection
>>Read more (new page—2 column wide right wireframe): Page Title: Cervical Epidural
Steroid Injection
Additional Copy Content:
The cervical epidural steroid injection is a procedure to help relieve neck and arm pain. It works
by reducing inflammation of irritated nerves within the spinal canal. These nerves can be
irritated as a result of a herniated cervical disc or because of degeneration of the spine. The
discs are "cushions" between the vertebrae that can degenerate as a result of injury or
advanced age. When a disc loses its integrity, it can spill irritating chemicals onto spinal nerves
and it can also cause direct pressure effects. Degeneration causes nerve irritation because this
degenerating process narrows the canals where the nerves lie.
The benefits
This procedure is very safe with the potential benefits of decreased pain, decreased
numbness/tingling, and increased mobility. As with any procedure, there are risks involved
including infection, bleeding, nerve injury, and worsened pain. Side effects are rare due to the
small doses of steroids used. Possible side effects include: increases in blood sugar, weight gain,
water retention, and suppression of the body's own production of cortisone.
The procedure
The procedure itself is performed at an outpatient surgery center. Usually, an IV (intravenous)
line is started preoperatively in order to give the patient mild sedation.
 The patient is then brought to the procedure suite and placed in the prone (face down)
position.
 The skin is cleansed with an antiseptic solution and drapes are placed to keep a sterile
field.
 To be as precise as possible, the physician uses an x-ray machine to visualize the spinal
anatomy.
 Next, the skin and subcutaneous tissues are anesthetized with a local anesthetic.
 An epidural needle is then inserted and advanced to the area surrounding the spinal
cord and the nerves coming out of it, which is called the epidural space.
 Contrast "dye" may be used to assure proper needle position as it outlines the intended
target.
 During the injection of steroid, the patient may feel slight discomfort from the pressure
effects of the injected solution.
 This entire procedure may take 10-15 minutes.

2
 After the procedure is over, the patient is taken to the recovery area for approximately
30 minutes before being discharged.
After the procedure
After the procedure, there may be some slight discomfort from the mechanical process of
needle insertion or from pressure effects from the solution. Usually the procedure is very well
tolerated and patients can resume their normal activities the next day. The steroid takes
approximately 1-2 days to take effect, so patients should not expect any immediate benefit. It is
not infrequent that it takes 2 to 3 epidural steroid injections to obtain the most benefit.
Feature Two Photo: marathon.jpg
Feature Two Title: Lower back and leg pain
Feature Two Caption: Lumbar epidural steroid injection
>>Read more (new page—2 column wide right wireframe): Page Title: Lumbar Epidural Steroid
Injection
A lumbar epidural steroid injection is a procedure to help relieve low back and leg pain. It works
by reducing inflammation of irritated nerves within the spinal canal. These nerves can be
irritated as a result of a herniated lumbar disc or because of degeneration of the spine. The discs
are "cushions" between the vertebrae that can degenerate as a result of injury or advanced age.
When a disc loses its integrity, it can spill irritating chemicals onto spinal nerves and it can also
cause direct pressure effects. Arthritis causes nerve irritation because this degenerating process
narrows the canals where the nerves lie.
The benefits
An epidural steroid injection is very safe with potential benefits of decreased pain, decreased
numbness/tingling, and increased mobility. As with any procedure, there are risks involved
including infection, bleeding, nerve injury, and worsened pain. There are also possible side
effects relating to the steroid itself including: increases in blood sugar, weight gain, water
retention, and suppression of the body's own production of cortisone.
The procedure
The procedure itself is performed at an outpatient surgery center. Usually, an IV (intravenous)
line is started preoperatively in order to give the patient mild sedation.
 The patient is then brought to the procedure suite and placed in the prone (face down)
or seated position.
 The skin is cleansed with an antiseptic solution and drapes are placed to keep a sterile
field.
 To be as precise as possible, the physician uses an x-ray machine to visualize the spinal
anatomy.
 Next, the skin and subcutaneous tissues are anesthetized with a local anesthetic
(lidocaine).
 An epidural needle is then inserted and advanced to the area surrounding the spinal
cord and the nerves coming out of it, which is called the epidural space.
 Contrast "dye" may be used to assure proper needle position as it outlines the intended
target.

3
 During the injection of steroid, the patient may feel slight discomfort from the pressure
effects of the injected solution.
 This entire procedure may take 10-15 minutes.
 After the procedure is over, the patient is taken to the recovery area for approximately
30 minutes before being discharged.
After the procedure
After the procedure, there may be some slight discomfort from the mechanical process of
needle insertion or from pressure effects from the solution. Usually the procedure is very well
tolerated and patients can resume their normal activities the next day. The steroid takes
approximately 24-48 hours to take effect, so patients should not expect any immediate benefit.
It is not infrequent that it takes 2 to 3 epidural steroid injections to obtain the most benefit.
Feature Three Photo: concerned woman.jpg
Feature Three Title: Chronic widespread pain
Feature Three Caption: Spinal cord stimulation
>>Read more (new page—2 column wide right wireframe): Page Title: Spinal Cord Stimulators
A spinal cord stimulator is an advanced treatment for chronic pain. With this therapy, a small
implanted device generates electrical signals within the spinal cord. Pain messages are then
changed before they are sent to the brain. Previous areas of pain are replaced with a different
sensation. Usually patients describe this is a tingling feeling.
Candidates for the procedure
A potential candidate for spinal stimulation will undergo a trial procedure. The trial determines
if a patient is a candidate for surgical implantation. The patient should obtain good pain relief
and feel comfortable with the sensations of stimulation. During the trial, the patient will be:
 Placed face down (prone) on a procedure table and will be given light sedation.
 The patient has to be awake enough to communicate with the surgeon.
 The surgeon will use an x-ray machine to visualize the spinal anatomy.
 Next, local anesthetic will be given to numb the skin and subcutaneous tissues.
 After that, a special needle will be placed just outside the spinal cord.
 A wire or lead will then be threaded through the needle along the spinal canal.
 The patient will then tell the surgeon where stimulation is felt and the wire/lead will be
adjusted appropriately.
 The needle is then pulled out, leaving the wire/lead in place. Thus, there will be a wire
coming out of the skin which will be taped down. This will be attached to an external
battery and stimulator generator.
 The patient will then go home for several days to assess the amount of pain relief.
 Upon return to the doctor's office, the trial wire/lead will be pulled out.
Treatment decisions
At this point, a decision will be made on whether or not to proceed to implantation based on
the results of the trial. Should the decision be made to do an implantation, the procedure will be
done at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital. Spinal cord stimulators can significantly decrease pain,
but as with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved. These include infection, bleeding,

4
injury to the spinal cord, equipment failure, or future lack of benefit. It should also be noted that
after implantation the patient will no longer be able to have a MRI. Prior to implantation, the
patient will also be referred to a psychologist. The psychologist will assess the patient's
understanding and expectations of the procedure.
The procedure
For implantation, the wire/lead will be placed just as during the trial. However, the lead will be
connected to a small battery placed underneath the skin. The battery is placed in either the
upper buttock or abdomen. The patient will also have a remote device that controls the
generator. Today, most batteries implanted are rechargeable. From time to time, the patient
will have to recharge the battery at home using a remote control device. The remote control
device is placed on top of the skin, overlying the implanted battery, and the battery's energy is
restored over a few hours.
Feature Four Photo: painful joints.jpg
Feature Four Title: Focal neck and back pain
Feature Four Caption: Radiofrequency lesioning
>>Read more (new page—2 column wide right wireframe): Page Title: Radiofrequency
lesioning
Radiofrequency lesioning is a procedure in which sensory nerves are purposefully altered by a
heated probe. This technique is usually performed for focal back or neck pain caused by
degenerative facet joints. Facet joints are true synovial joints which connect the posterior spinal
column. They are subject to degeneration and inflammation and become a very common cause
of pain, especially in the elderly. Each facet joint is innervated by 2 sensory nerves and their
location is predictable along the bony spine. A diagnostic block of each nerve with local
anesthetic will determine if the presumed facet joint is the cause of pain. If the patient obtains
pain relief after the diagnostic block, then the patient will return for the radiofrequency
lesioning procedure.
The aim of radiofrequency lesioning is improved pain and function. The procedure is not
permanent however with recent literature stating an average pain relief of 9 months and in
some cases a longer period of time. As with any procedure, there are potential risks including:
infection, bleeding, nerve injury, and worsened pain.
The procedure is performed at the outpatient surgery center. An IV (intravenous) line is started
preoperatively in order to give the patient mild sedation. The patient is then brought to the
procedure suite and placed in the prone (face down) position. The skin is cleansed with an
antiseptic solution and drapes are placed to keep a sterile field. The physician uses an x-ray
machine to visualize the spinal anatomy and intended targets. Next, the skin and subcutaneous
tissues are anesthetized with a local anesthetic. A special needle is then inserted and placed
next to the sensory nerve. Sensory and motor testing is then performed by a special machine
which informs the physician of his proximity to the sensory nerve. When appropriate, the
physician will give some local anesthetic prior to heating the needle. The lesioning (heating)
process itself only takes 90 seconds.

5
After the procedure, there may be some slight discomfort from the process of needle insertion.
Usually the procedure is very well tolerated and patients can resume their normal activities the
next day. The full effect can take several days, so the patient may not perceive any immediate
benefit. Radiofrequency lesioning can be repeated on an as needed basis.
Optional Text Block Area
Tab One Title: About Us
At the Tallahassee Memorial Center for Pain Management, our goal is to improve the quality of life of
those who needlessly suffer from acute and/or chronic pain. Our physicians specialize in the treatment
of:
 Back pain
 Neck and shoulder pain
 Knee pain
 Sciatica
 Arthritis pain
 Osteoporosis pain
 Phantom pain
 Cancer pain
 Pain from auto accident injuries
 Regional pain syndromes
Our specially-equipped outpatient surgery center enables us treat a wide range of painful conditions on-
site both safely and effectively, while our team of professional personnel and their passion for our
patients helps us provide the highest quality care.
Tab Two Title: Our History
Born out of a need for specialty pain management services in our community, Tallahassee Memorial
HealthCare became part-owner of Tallahassee Neurosurgery Pain Management in 2005, founding the
Tallahassee Memorial Center for Pain Management.
Tab Three Title: Contact Us
Tallahassee Memorial Center for Pain Management
Mahan Oaks Center
2824-2 Mahan Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32308
(850) 558-1270
(Google map pictured, hyperlinked, right aligned)
Static Feature Area (title: Meet the Physicians)
Feature One Photo: Dr. Mullin headshot
Feature One Title: Dr. Vildan Mullin
Feature One Caption: Pain management specialist
>>Read more (new page—2 column wide right wireframe): Page Title: About Vildan Mullin,
M.D.
(Dr. Mullin’s headshot left-aligned, text wrapped)
Dr. Vildan Mullin comes to us from the University of Michigan where he was the founder and
Director of the Pain Center. This was the first pain center in the Midwest and has become one of
the country’s top pain treatment facilities. He was appointed to the Advisory Board of the
Governor in Michigan where he assisted in establishing regulations for pain management.

6
He completed his undergraduate studies and medical degree at the University of Istanbul,
followed by an internship at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Michigan. He subsequently did a
year of surgical residency at Sinai Hospital of Detroit, his anesthesia residency at the University
of Michigan and his Pain Clinic Fellowship at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. Dr.
Mullin joined Tallahassee Neurological Clinic’s Division of Pain Management in August 2003.
Dr. Mullin is Board Certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology and is Board Certified in
Pain Management.
Feature Two Photo: Dr. Fuhrmeister headshot
Feature Two Title: Dr. Joshua Fuhrmeister
Feature Two Caption: Pain management specialist
>>Read more (new page—2 column wide right wireframe): Page Title: About Joshua
Fuhrmeister, M.D.
(Dr. Fuhrmeister’s headshot left-aligned, text wrapped)
Dr. Joshua Fuhrmeister joined the Tallahassee Neurological Clinic Division of Pain Management
in July 2006. Born and raised in Iowa City, IA, he completed his undergraduate education in
Engineering at the University of Iowa. He then graduated from the University of Iowa College of
Medicine in May 2001 and went on to complete his Internship and Residency at the University
of Florida.
Dr. Fuhrmeister completed his Fellowship in Pain Medicine at the Mayo Clinic of Jacksonville in
June 2006. Dr. Fuhrmeister is Board Certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology and is
Board Certified in Pain Management.
Feature Three Photo: Dr. Mastaw headshot
Feature Three Title: Dr. Gerald Mastaw
Feature Three Caption: Pain management specialist
>>Read more (new page—2 column wide right wireframe): Page Title: About Gerald Mastaw,
M.D.
(Dr. Mastaw’s headshot left-aligned, text wrapped)
Dr. Jerry Mastaw joined Tallahassee Neurological clinic in August 2011. He was born and raised
in Southeast Michigan and obtained his medical degree from the University of Michigan. Upon
graduation, he chose to stay at the University of Michigan Medical Center to complete his
anesthesia residency. Following completion of his residency program, Dr. Mastaw joined the
U.S. Navy and was stationed at Cherry Point Marine Corp Air Station and Naval Hospital Rota,
Spain. In 2005, he deployed to Iraq for 8 months as an anesthesiologist in support of Operation
Iraqi Freedom. Dr. Mastaw left the Navy as Lieutenant Commander in 2009 and returned to the
University of Michigan to complete a one-year fellowship in Pain Medicine. He is a board
certified anesthesiologist and a board certified pain management physician.

7
ORIGINAL COPY
Control your pain, don’t let your pain control you.
The Tallahassee Memorial Center for Pain Management offers a comprehensive pain management
program to help patients cope with the debilitating effects of pain. Our goal is to improve the quality of
life for people who needlessly suffer from chronic pain.
The physicians at the Tallahassee Memorial Center for Pain Management specialize in the treatment of
acute and chronic pain, including:
 Back pain
 Neck and shoulder pain
 Knee pain
 Sciatica
 Arthritis pain
 Osteoporosis pain
 Phantom pain
 Cancer pain
 Pain from auto accident injuries
 Regional pain syndromes
We are able to provide treatment for a wide range of painful conditions using a variety of approaches.
Many procedures can be performed on-site in our specially equipped outpatient surgery center.
About Us—The Tallahassee Center for Pain Management is an ambulatory surgical facility established to
provide surgical services in a safe, efficient, cost effective and user-friendly environment.
Mission—Provide quality elective ambulatory surgical care to promote the health and optimal function
required to lead active lives.
Vision—The Tallahassee Memorial Center for Pain Management will provide excellent ambulatory
surgical care in our community. We will be an ambulatory surgery healthcare provider of choice. We will
have a team of professional personnel who are passionate about patient care and committed to
continuously improving our services to our patients. A spirit of collaboration and trust is evident among
medical staff, nursing staff, administrative staff and ancillary personnel.
Corporate history—In 2003 neurologists and neurosurgeons in the Tallahassee Neurological Clinic met
to discuss the availability of pain management services within the Tallahassee community. Their patients
had experienced difficulty in obtaining such services and the physicians were seeking a solution. Dr.
Christopher Rumana felt that a facility dedicated to the delivery of pain management would also be
beneficial.
In July 2003 the building process began for the Tallahassee Neurosurgery Pain Management, an
ambulatory surgery center. In 2005 Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare became a 51% owner and the
surgery center is now called the Tallahassee Center for Pain Management.
The Tallahassee Memorial Center for Pain Management is AHCA and Medicare certified.
Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection
A cervical epidural steroid injection is a procedure to help relieve neck and arm pain. It works by
reducing inflammation of irritated nerves within the spinal canal. These nerves can be irritated as a
result of a herniated cervical disc or because of degeneration of the spine. The discs are "cushions"
between the vertebrae that can degenerate as a result of injury or advanced age. When a disc loses its
integrity, it can spill irritating chemicals onto spinal nerves and it can also cause direct pressure effects.

8
Degeneration causes nerve irritation because this degenerating process narrows the canals where the
nerves lie.
numbness/tingling, and increased mobility. As with any procedure, there are risks involved including
infection, bleeding, nerve injury, and worsened pain. Side effects are rare due to the small doses of
steroids used. Possible side effects include: increases in blood sugar, weight gain, water retention, and
suppression of the body's own production of cortisone.
The procedure itself is performed at an outpatient surgery center. Usually, an IV (intravenous) line is
started preoperatively in order to give the patient mild sedation. The patient is then brought to the
procedure suite and placed in the prone (face down) position. The skin is cleansed with an antiseptic
solution and drapes are placed to keep a sterile field. To be as precise as possible, the physician uses an
x-ray machine to visualize the spinal anatomy. Next, the skin and subcutaneous tissues are anesthetized
with a local anesthetic. An epidural needle is then inserted and advanced to the area surrounding the
spinal cord and the nerves coming out of it, which is called the epidural space. Contrast "dye" may be
used to assure proper needle position as it outlines the intended target. During the injection of steroid,
the patient may feel slight discomfort from the pressure effects of the injected solution. This entire
procedure may take 10-15 minutes. After the procedure is over, the patient is taken to the recovery
area for approximately 30 minutes before being discharged.
After the procedure, there may be some slight discomfort from the mechanical process of needle
insertion or from pressure effects from the solution. Usually the procedure is very well tolerated and
patients can resume their normal activities the next day. The steroid takes approximately 1-2 days to
take effect, so patients should not expect any immediate benefit. It is not infrequent that it takes 2 to 3
epidural steroid injections to obtain the most benefit.
Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection
A lumbar epidural steroid injection is a procedure to help relieve low back and leg pain. It works by
reducing inflammation of irritated nerves within the spinal canal. These nerves can be irritated as a
result of a herniated lumbar disc or because of degeneration of the spine. The discs are "cushions"
between the vertebrae that can degenerate as a result of injury or advanced age. When a disc loses its
integrity, it can spill irritating chemicals onto spinal nerves and it can also cause direct pressure effects.
Arthritis causes nerve irritation because this degenerating process narrows the canals where the nerves
lie.
numbness/tingling, and increased mobility. As with any procedure, there are risks involved including
infection, bleeding, nerve injury, and worsened pain. There are also possible side effects relating to the
steroid itself including: increases in blood sugar, weight gain, water retention, and suppression of the
body's own production of cortisone.
The procedure itself is performed at an outpatient surgery center. Usually, an IV (intravenous) line is
started preoperatively in order to give the patient mild sedation. The patient is then brought to the
procedure suite and placed in the prone (face down) or seated position. The skin is cleansed with an
antiseptic solution and drapes are placed to keep a sterile field. To be as precise as possible, the
physician uses an x-ray machine to visualize the spinal anatomy. Next, the skin and subcutaneous tissues
are anesthetized with a local anesthetic (lidocaine). An epidural needle is then inserted and advanced to

9
the area surrounding the spinal cord and the nerves coming out of it, which is called the epidural space.
Contrast "dye" may be used to assure proper needle position as it outlines the intended target. During
the injection of steroid, the patient may feel slight discomfort from the pressure effects of the injected
solution. This entire procedure may take 10-15 minutes. After the procedure is over, the patient is taken
to the recovery area for approximately 30 minutes before being discharged.
After the procedure, there may be some slight discomfort from the mechanical process of needle
insertion or from pressure effects from the solution. Usually the procedure is very well tolerated and
patients can resume their normal activities the next day. The steroid takes approximately 24-48 hours to
take effect, so patients should not expect any immediate benefit. It is not infrequent that it takes 2 to 3
epidural steroid injections to obtain the most benefit.
Spinal Cord Stimulators
A spinal cord stimulator is an advanced treatment for chronic pain. With this therapy, a small implanted
device generates electrical signals within the spinal cord. Pain messages are then changed before they
are sent to the brain. Previous areas of pain are replaced with a different sensation. Usually patients
describe this is a tingling feeling.
A potential candidate for spinal stimulation will undergo a trial procedure. The trial determines if a
patient is a candidate for surgical implantation. The patient should obtain good pain relief and feel
comfortable with the sensations of stimulation. During the trial, the patient will be placed face down
(prone) on a procedure table and will be given light sedation. The patient has to be awake enough to
communicate with the surgeon. The surgeon will use an x-ray machine to visualize the spinal anatomy.
Next, local anesthetic will be given to numb the skin and subcutaneous tissues. After that, a special
needle will be placed just outside the spinal cord. A wire or lead will then be threaded through the
needle along the spinal canal. The patient will then tell the surgeon where stimulation is felt and the
wire/lead will be adjusted appropriately. The needle is then pulled out, leaving the wire/lead in place.
Thus, there will be a wire coming out of the skin which will be taped down. This will be attached to an
external battery and stimulator generator. The patient will then go home for several days to assess the
amount of pain relief. Upon return to the doctor's office, the trial wire/lead will be pulled out.
At this point, a decision will be made on whether or not to proceed to implantation based on the results
of the trial. Should the decision be made to do an implantation, the procedure will be done at
Tallahassee Memorial Hospital. Spinal cord stimulators can significantly decrease pain, but as with any
surgical procedure, there are risks involved. These include infection, bleeding, injury to the spinal cord,
equipment failure, or future lack of benefit. It should also be noted that after implantation the patient
will no longer be able to have a MRI. Prior to implantation, the patient will also be referred to a
psychologist. The psychologist will assess the patient's understanding and expectations of the
procedure.
For implantation, the wire/lead will be placed just as during the trial. However, the lead will be
connected to a small battery placed underneath the skin. The battery is placed in either the upper
buttock or abdomen. The patient will also have a remote device that controls the generator. Today,
most batteries implanted are rechargeable. From time to time, the patient will have to recharge the
battery at home using a remote control device. The remote control device is placed on top of the skin,
overlying the implanted battery, and the battery's energy is restored over a few hours.
Radiofrequency Procedure

10
Radiofrequency lesioning is a procedure in which sensory nerves are purposefully altered by a heated
probe. This technique is usually performed for focal back or neck pain caused by degenerative facet
joints. Facet joints are true synovial joints which connect the posterior spinal column. They are subject
to degeneration and inflammation and become a very common cause of pain, especially in the elderly.
Each facet joint is innervated by 2 sensory nerves and their location is predictable along the bony spine.
A diagnostic block of each nerve with local anesthetic will determine if the presumed facet joint is the
cause of pain. If the patient obtains pain relief after the diagnostic block, then the patient will return for
the radiofrequency lesioning procedure.
The aim of radiofrequency lesioning is improved pain and function. The procedure is not permanent
however with recent literature stating an average pain relief of 9 months and in some cases a longer
period of time. As with any procedure, there are potential risks including: infection, bleeding, nerve
injury, and worsened pain.
The procedure is performed at the outpatient surgery center. An IV (intravenous) line is started
preoperatively in order to give the patient mild sedation. The patient is then brought to the procedure
suite and placed in the prone (face down) position. The skin is cleansed with an antiseptic solution and
drapes are placed to keep a sterile field. The physician uses an x-ray machine to visualize the spinal
anatomy and intended targets. Next, the skin and subcutaneous tissues are anesthetized with a local
anesthetic. A special needle is then inserted and placed next to the sensory nerve. Sensory and motor
testing is then performed by a special machine which informs the physician of his proximity to the
sensory nerve. When appropriate, the physician will give some local anesthetic prior to heating the
needle. The lesioning (heating) process itself only takes 90 seconds.
After the procedure, there may be some slight discomfort from the process of needle insertion. Usually
the procedure is very well tolerated and patients can resume their normal activities the next day. The
full effect can take several days, so the patient may not perceive any immediate benefit. Radiofrequency
lesioning can be repeated on an as needed basis.
Vildan Mullin, M.D.
Dr. Vildan Mullin comes to us from the University of Michigan where he was the founder and Director of
the Pain Center. This was the first pain center in the Midwest and has become one of the country’s top
pain treatment facilities. He was appointed to the Advisory Board of the Governor in Michigan where he
assisted in establishing regulations for pain management.
He completed his undergraduate studies and medical degree at the University of Istanbul, followed by
an internship at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Michigan. He subsequently did a year of surgical
residency at Sinai Hospital of Detroit, his anesthesia residency at the University of Michigan and his Pain
Clinic Fellowship at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. Dr. Mullin joined Tallahassee
Neurological Clinic’s Division of Pain Management in August 2003.
Dr. Mullin is Board Certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology and is Board Certified in Pain
Management.
Joshua Fuhrmeister, M.D.
Dr. Joshua Fuhrmeister joined the Tallahassee Neurological Clinic Division of Pain Management in July
2006. Born and raised in Iowa City, IA, he completed his undergraduate education in Engineering at the

11
University of Iowa. He then graduated from the University of Iowa College of Medicine in May 2001 and
went on to complete his Internship and Residency at the University of Florida.
Dr. Fuhrmeister completed his Fellowship in Pain Medicine at the Mayo Clinic of Jacksonville in June
2006. Dr. Fuhrmeister is Board Certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology and is Board Certified
in Pain Management.
Albert Lee, M.D.
Dr. Albert Lee joined Tallahassee Neurological Clinic in May, 2004. Born and raised in Providence, RI, he
completed his undergraduate education in biology at Harvard University in Cambridge, MA. After
completing three years of basic science research at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, MA, he
graduated with honors from Boston University School of Medicine. Dr. Lee then completed his
internship in general surgery and residency in neurosurgery at Massachusetts General Hospital, a
Harvard Medical School teaching hospital in Boston. He remained there on staff for six months after
serving as chief resident in the residency program. Dr. Lee then entered practice in neurosurgery in
Naples, FL for two and a half years before being recruited to join the group here in Tallahassee. On June
14, 2005 Dr. Lee successfully completed the certification exam and is fully Board Certified by the
American Board of Neurological Surgery.
Christopher Rumana, M.D.
Dr. Christopher Rumana joined the Tallahassee Neurological Clinic practice in 1998. He was interviewed
and selected by Dr. Mark Vogter as a neurosurgeon who would make an immediate contribution to
quality healthcare in this community. Dr. Rumana earned his Undergraduate and Medical School
degrees from Northwestern University. He completed his neurosurgical residency training at Baylor
College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. During his residency he received the distinguished Mayfield
Award for Research. On November 22, 2000, Dr. Rumana successfully completed the certification exam
and is considered Board Certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery and is a fellow of the
American College of Surgeons.
Matthew Lawson, M.D.
Dr. Matthew Lawson joined the Tallahassee Neurological Clinic in 2012, after working as a Neurosurgeon
at the University of Florida. For his undergraduate studies, Dr. Lawson attended Harvard University and
graduated magna cum laude with a degree in biochemical sciences in 2000. He then attended the
University of Florida and received his medical degree cum laude in 2004. During medical school he was
inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) honor society.
In July 2006, Dr. Lawson became a resident in Neurosurgery following several years of training in a
combined general surgery/plastic and reconstructive surgery program. During his Neurosurgical training
at UF he completed an 18-month dedicated fellowship in Endovascular Neurosurgery under the
direction of Drs. Brian Hoh, J Mocco, and Chris Firment. This specialized training qualifies Dr. Lawson to
treat complex cerebrovascular disorders such as intracranial aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations
(AVMs), and acute stroke. After residency, he remained on staff at UF for six months as a Neurosurgeon.
In addition to General Neurosurgery, Dr. Lawson provides subspecialized care in Endovascular and
Cerebrovascular Surgery. Dr. Lawson performs many neurosurgical procedures, including: Diagnostic
Cerebral Angiography, Endovascular Interventions, Intracranial Aneurysm Coiling, AVM Embolization,
Tumor Embolization, Intracranial Angioplasty and Stent Placement, Carotid Artery Angioplasty and Stent
Placement and Emergent Intervention for treatment of acute stroke.

12
Gerald Mastaw, M.D.
Dr. Jerry Mastaw joined Tallahassee Neurological clinic in August 2011. He was born and raised in
Southeast Michigan and obtained his medical degree from the University of Michigan. Upon graduation,
he chose to stay at the University of Michigan Medical Center to complete his anesthesia residency.
Following completion of his residency program, Dr. Mastaw joined the U.S. Navy and was stationed at
Cherry Point Marine Corp Air Station and Naval Hospital Rota, Spain. In 2005, he deployed to Iraq for 8
months as an anesthesiologist in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Dr. Mastaw left the Navy as
Lieutenant Commander in 2009 and returned to the University of Michigan to complete a one-year
fellowship in Pain Medicine. He is a board certified anesthesiologist and a board certified pain
management physician.

Media Alert
CONTACT: Jocelyn Givens
PHONE: (850) 431-5894
OFFICE: 1308 Hodges Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32308
Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare Hosts Stroke Risk Screening at
Gadsden Outpatient Rehabilitation Center
WHO: Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare
WHAT: In observance of Stroke Awareness Month, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare
is hosting a community stroke risk screening at Gadsden Outpatient
Rehabilitation Center. The event, which is free and open to the public, highlights
the many preventable risk factors for stroke and includes the following
screenings:
 Weight and blood pressure
 Lipid panel
 Diabetes education
 Strength and balance testing
 Smoking cessation counseling
 Diet and nutrition education
 Medicine evaluation
WHEN: Saturday, May 31, from 10 AM to 2 PM.
WHERE: Gadsden Outpatient Rehabilitation Center, 16 W. Washington St., Quincy, Fla.
Founded in 1948, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare (TMH) is a private, not-for-profit
community healthcare system committed to transforming care, advancing health, and
improving lives with an ultimate vision of leading the community to be the healthiest in the
nation. Serving a 17-county region in North Florida and South Georgia, TMH is comprised of
a 772-bed acute care hospital, a psychiatric hospital, multiple specialty care centers, three
residency programs, 22 affiliated physician practices, and partnerships with Doctors’
Memorial Hospital, Florida State University College of Medicine, UF Health, and Weems
Memorial Hospital. TMH has the area’s only designated Level II Trauma Center, Brain and
Spinal Cord Injury Program, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and accredited community hospital
cancer program. In addition, TMH has an Accredited Chest Pain Center and a Primary
Stroke Center certified by the Joint Commission. For more information, visit www.tmh.org.
###

If you are HPV-positive, a tobacco user or consume alcohol regularly, you could be at risk
for oral, head and neck cancer. The symptoms can be hard to recognize, so early detection is key.
Walk-ins are welcome or you can pre-register by calling 431-5875.
Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare
oral, head & Neck
Cancer Screening
presents
Free & open to the public
Friday•May 2•6:30-8:30 pm
AT THE RELAY FOR LIFE OF NORTH LEON
Chiles High School (7200 Lawton Chiles Lane)

Medical Minute—Seasonal Allergies
Q: What is causing my seasonal allergy symptoms?
A: Allergy symptoms, commonly referred to as hay fever, are the immune system’s overreaction to
contact with airborne particles like pollen and dust through the eyes, nose, lungs or skin. Continuing
research has shown links between widespread immunity to infection and the growing incidence of
allergic disease in the United States, but more often than not, allergic individuals inherit their
susceptibility to hay fever from their parents. Symptoms arise from exposure to pollen, grasses, fungus
and dust, most often between April and November. Seasonal allergies are well managed through strict
avoidance of triggers and the use of over-the-counter antihistamines. Severe allergies may be treated
with immunology, or allergy shots.
Q: How can I be sure that I’m suffering from allergies, or hay fever, and not a cold?
A: ‘Hay fever’ is actually a misnomer—hay does not trigger the symptoms, nor do the symptoms cause
fever. Rather, symptoms will arise at rather consistent intervals with exposure to triggers. On the other
hand, similar cold symptoms will worsen in the short-term, but don’t reoccur in the long run. And while
fatigue related to sinus congestion and discomfort is typical of hay fever, general aches and pains
throughout the body typically signal a cold.
Q: What are some Tallahassee-specific environmental allergens and how can I avoid them?
Tallahassee’s beloved live oak trees are largely to blame for its high pollen concentrations. Area Cedar
and Juniper trees contribute, too, with longer, cooler winters and increasingly wet weather stimulating
extra pollen production. News stations provide forecasts of allergens in the air, indexing the risk to
allergy sufferers based on grains of pollen per square meter of air. Consulting these forecasts, avoiding
the outdoors early in the morning, and maintaining a clean, dust-free living environment are some of
the best defenses against prolonged hay fever symptoms.
Q: Can my allergies make me develop asthma?
The inhalation of airborne allergens can trigger a number of immune system reactions, including
asthma. With allergic asthma, the lungs’ overreaction to contact with pollen, dust or tobacco smoke
causes airway inflammation, mucus over-production and spasms in the muscles surrounding the
airways. These symptoms, or asthma attacks, can cause dangerous obstructions in the lungs. Individuals

with allergic asthma are especially encouraged to avoid triggers, are often prescribed bronchodilators to
use in case of asthma attacks, and are strong candidates for allergy shots, or immunology.

HANDS ONLY CPR CARD
Headline: Hands-Only CPR & Cardiac Arrest
Hands-only CPR is CPR without mouth-to-mouth breaths. Studies have shown that
the use of hands-only CPR can be just as effective as conventional CPR when used on
teens and adults who experience sudden cardiac arrest outside of a hospital. It can
double, or even triple, a victim’s chance of survival.
The American Heart Association still recommends CPR with compressions and
breaths for infants, children (up to puberty), and victims of drowning, drug
overdose, or people who collapse due to breathing problems. However, any CPR is
better than no CPR.
Why Learn Hands-Only CPR
 70 percent of Americans don’t know how to administer CPR and feel helpless
during a cardiac emergency.
 80 percent of cardiac arrests happen in private or residential settings, and only
41 percent of victims get the help they need before emergency assistance
arrives.
 Approximately 89 percent of people who suffer an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest
die because they do not receive CPR on the scene.
How to Do It
Hands-Only CPR has just two steps: if you see a teen or adult suddenly collapse,
 Before beginning, call 9-1-1 immediately (or send someone to do that if you’re
not alone).
 Place one hands in the center of the chest, with one hand interlocked over the
other.
 Push hard and fast until help arrives.

1
Media Training Guidelines
Public Relations
You’re the expert—you’re likely being called upon to lend credibility to a news report
because you have a great deal of experience with the topic at hand. So, the most
important lesson to learn about working with the media is to be natural and at ease.
Think of your relationship with the reporter as mutually beneficial, and their story as a
platform for your message. The rest is just preparation and practice.
WORKING WITH REPORTERS
Never go “off-the-record.” For all intents and purposes, there is no such thing. Before,
during and after your interview, remember that you’re speaking with a reporter. Don’t
say anything to him or her that you wouldn’t want to hear broadcast or see published.
“Between you and me, this treatment isn’t really effective, is it?”
Answer requests as quickly as possible, not an hour before deadline. By
answering early on, you have the opportunity to shape a reporter’s story, rather than
being an after-thought in it. Answering promptly also makes you appear reliable and
helps build report with journalists.
Ask questions about the interview. Make sure you understand who the reporter is
who will be interviewing you, what story you will be contributing to and what perspective
the reporter is taking on the story. You may also want to know who else the reporter will
speak with and what specifically they need you to contribute.
Remember, the reporter is not your audience. You want to answer all of his or her
questions thoroughly, but the reporter is the conduit through which you are
communicating your message. Make sure that what you’re negotiating the interview
agenda and that what you’re saying is compelling to your audience.
BODY LANGUAGE
Keep your energy level up. Television tends to flatten people. It’s better to over-
compensate by increasing your volume by 10 to 15 percent, while speaking about that
much slower than you normally would.
Maintain eye contact. Unless you’re being interviewed remotely (in which case you
would gaze directly into the camera lens), aim for 100 percent eye contact with the
interviewer at all times.
Gesture as you would in conversation. According to experts, using hand gestures
grabs attention, increases the impact of communication and helps individuals retain

2
more of the information they are hearing. For seated interviews, keep your arms open
and ready to gesture. When not gesturing, avoid clasping your hands or crossing your
arms.
Be mindful of your posture. For standing interviews, place one foot slightly in front of
the other to prevent swaying from side-to-side and to keep your energy aimed forward.
For seated interviews, move forward so you’re only sitting on the front half of the chair.
Leaning forward a bit can also help increase your energy.
Pause thoughtfully instead of “uhm”-ing. The audience will rarely see your pauses in
an edited interview, so take your time before answering a question – even if that means
you pause for 10 or 15 seconds. That tactic not only helps eliminate verbal filler, but
allows you to think of a better answer that concisely articulates your main message.
TIPS AND TRICKS
Don’t confuse your audience. Avoid using jargon, technical terms or acronyms.
Assume that your audience is learning this information for the first time and aim to be as
clear as possible.
What not to wear: colors that are too dark or too bright bleed on camera. Solid medium
shades are best (light blues, grays and browns). Avoid patterns as they tend to “dance”
on camera, and avoid white when possible.
Know before you go. You’ve been contacted because of your expertise on the topic,
but 20 minutes before your interview, identify three key messages that encapsulate
what you want the public to know. Develop three short anecdotes that can help
communicate—
 The most provocative, controversial or relatable parts of the topic
 Brief stories or local examples
 Key things to remember
Expect the unexpected. Think about what you don’t want to be asked, and prepare
ways to come back to talking points if it happens. If a reporter makes a false statement
or one you don’t agree with, say so. Feel empowered to change the direction of the
interview, asking the questions you want to answer.
 “What really matters is __________.”
 “The most important issue is __________.”
 “The more interesting question is __________.”
Call PR in a bind. We can brief you on the details of the story topic before the
interview, providing memos, current trends and talking points in a tough spot. Debriefing
us after the interview, too, can help ensure more thorough preparation in the future.

3
KEY MESSAGES
Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare’s mission
 Transforming care—OPTIFAST program, comprehensive care: physicians,
surgeons, dieticians, behaviorists and exercise therapists, minimally invasive
surgical procedures.
 Advancing health
 Improving lives—decreased medications and medication cost, frequency of
doctor and hospital visits, joint pain and fatigue, increased exercise tolerance and
improved mood, blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes.
The Bariatric Center’s promise
 More doctors—bariatric surgeons, physicians, dietitians, behaviorists and
exercise therapists.
 More experience—Bariatric Center surgeons have performed more than 900
gastric bypass and lap-band surgeries.
 More options—free monthly seminars, non-surgical services, gastric bypass
surgery, adjustable lap band surgery and gastric sleeve surgery
QUESTIONS ABOUT BARIATRIC MEDICINE
What is bariatric medicine?
Bariatric medicine deals with the
causes, treatment and prevention of
obesity. At the Tallahassee Memorial
Bariatric Center, this includes dietetics,
behavioral therapy, exercise and
surgery.
How are patients referred to the
Bariatric Center?
Patients may be self-referred to the
Bariatric Center, they may be referred
by their general practitioner, or they may
be referred by another physician to lose
weight before a surgical procedure.
How can I tell if I am overweight or
obese?
The Body Mass Index, or BMI, is used
to indicate whether a patient is
overweight or obese. BMI is calculated
by dividing your weight in pounds by
your height in inches, times 703. A BMI
of 25-30 is considered overweight, with
30+ being obese.
What are medical problems
associated with obesity?
Obesity can cause breathing problems
and fatigue, gallstones, high blood
pressure, diabetes, cancer, heart
disease and stroke.
How do I know if I am a candidate for
weight loss surgery?
Candidates for weight loss surgery
generally have a BMI over 40 and are
more than 100 pounds overweight. They
have tried losing weight through
medically-supervised dieting to no avail
and experience severe negative health
effects, such as high blood pressure and
diabetes.
What type of exercise is best and
how much should I do?
In addition to a balanced diet, at least 30
minutes per day of brisk cardiovascular
exercise, like walking, jogging,
swimming or bicycling, is best for
patients trying to lose weight.

4
DIFFICULT QUESTIONS AND HOW TO ANSWER THEM
Antagonizing or skeptical questions
 Diets are dysfunctional and do not work…
o Many people believe that diets do not work, but what they may not have
considered is…
Questions you don’t know the answer to
 Exactly how many people are obese in America today?
o I’ll have to look up the exact number and get back to you, but I can tell
you…
 Can Type 2 diabetes be cured with weight loss surgery?
o Candidates for surgery are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, but
research shows…
Questions that call for speculation
 In XYZ’s case, it seems as though physicians didn’t follow proper protocol, do
you agree?
o Although I can’t speculate, I can say that at TMH we adhere to the
following protocols required by the National Institute of Health for the
treatment of bariatric patients…
 Why do you think this patient’s surgery was unsuccessful?
o I can’t say because I wasn’t involved, but at the Bariatric Center we…
Questions that ask for your personal opinion
 What are your thoughts on health care reform?
o I’m speaking for Tallahassee Memorial, not myself, and what we believe
is…
Yes or no questions
 Yes or no: weight loss surgery is sometimes fatal.
o Weight loss surgery is a great option for certain patients, but we must
consider…
 Is she or is she not a candidate for weight loss surgery?
o A BMI greater than 40 usually indicates that a patient may be a candidate
for surgery, but...
Third-party questions
 A competitor has claimed that their new service exceeds TMH’s in quality, how
do you respond?
o I can’t speak for our competitor, but our services and outcomes are…
HEADLINES IN WEIGHT LOSS (APRIL 2014)
 Bright Light, Early in the Morning, Can Help Weight Loss
 Eat Chocolate To Get Thin? Study Touts Cocoa for Weight Loss
 Weight Loss Surgery Helps Obese Patients Overcome Diabetes
 Research Suggests that Green Tea, Exercise Boost Weight Loss, Health

Julia Bomfim on behalf of Tallahassee Memorial

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