Community Corner

Good Samaritan Hospital in the News

The hospital lights up its annual Nativity scene, pediatricians recommend genetic testing for children with autism.

So often, in West Islip is recognized for many achievements and hosts numerous seminars each week. In this weekly column, Patch will update the town of on what's happening at the hospital. 

Here's how this past week:

-The hospital recently held its eighth annual Nativity scene lighting in anticipation for Christmas.

Find out what's happening in West Islipwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

According to Good Samaritan, hospital employees, along with , Town Treasurer Angie Carpenter all participated in the singing of Christmas carols and afterward, Father Cletus Nwaogwligwu blessed the scene and the group. 

All participants were invited back to the main lobby for complimentary tree ornament keepsakes, cookies and hot chocolate, the hospital said. 

Find out what's happening in West Islipwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

-Good Samaritan Hospital pediatricians recommend genetic tests for autism.  

Sarita Duchatelier, MD, director of neurology at Good Sam, said that genetics is at the top of the list for researching the cause of autism.  She also said that the tests won't determine why your child has autism, but it will greatly benefit future research. 

The hospital said the number of families of who actually genetically test their children in the U.S is unknown and will vary from region to region.  The testing may not directly benefit the individual with autism, but it will provide valuable information for the family.

For more information about the testing process, visit www.-goog-samaritan-hospital.org.

Upcoming Events:

"First Time Around" Prepared Childbirth Class- December 11: 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Big Brother/Big Sister Class- Dec. 11: 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

Free Glaucoma Screenings- Dec. 13- 2-4 p.m.

Early Pregnancy Class- Dec. 13: 7-9:30 p.m.


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