Lehigh Valley Health Network

Lehigh Valley Health Network is now utilizing the FDA approved LINX acid reflux surgical procedure.

Through a tiny incision, a flexible ring of titanium magnet beads with magnetic cores is implanted around the lower end of the esophagus. The ring assists the lower espohagus to resist opening, which prevents stomach contents from flowing back up. The surgery takes about one hour to complete.

Only seven percent of patients who have LINX implanted are back on medication after five years.

St. Luke’s University Health Network

St. Luke’s University Health Network has tripled its number of inpatient beds for behavioral health from 57 to 168, making it the largest provider of psychiatric services in the region. In November, inpatient behavioral health services were moved from the Bethlehem campus to Sacred Heart.

In December, St. Luke’s opened an Older Adult Behavioral Health Unit at the Gnaden Huetten campus with 20 inpatient beds for individuals 55 and older.

Inpatient beds are available at Sacred Heart, Allentown; Quakertown; and Gnaden Huetten, Lehighton.