NORWICH – Respiratory disorders such chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma impact many lives in Chenango County. According to a nurse practitioner who specializes in such illnesses, there are a number of factors that contribute to the prevalence of these long-term lung diseases.

“Smoking and tobacco use certainly plays a role, as does environmental exposure,” explained Mary Rivera, ANP. “From exposure to mold and mildew to jobs in the building and manufacturing trades, there are many contributing factors that can place someone at risk of developing a respiratory disorder or worsen an existing condition.”

Often lung disease is an underlying condition that is either undiagnosed or unmanaged, Rivera said.

Recognizing the unmet need, UHS Chenango Memorial sought to expand pulmonology services. They recruited Rivera, who has practiced with UHS in acute and critical care roles for close to 25 years.

“We are thrilled to welcome Mary to our team at UHS Cardiology in Norwich. She is an experienced Nurse Practitioner with a longstanding affiliation with UHS and CMH. Her expertise in critical care and pulmonology is something our community desperately needs,” said Chris Kisacky, Vice President of Service Coordination and Development at UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital.