JOURNEYS “Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice …” – William Jennings Bryan
SPRING 2019
Putting patients’ lives back on track
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JOURNEYS SPRING 2019
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FROM OUR PRESIDENT
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PATIENT EXPERIENCE Helping Mark survive for the long haul
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TRANSFORMING SURGERY
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MERRICK MEDICAL CENTER FOUNDATION
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BRYAN HEART Implantable loop recorder links diagnoses from years apart: More than a lucky catch PATIENTS GIVE BACK TO COMMUNITY B-Buddies stuffed animals offer comfort after infant loss
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CRETE AREA MEDICAL CENTER MFR releases Tammy’s pain MEDICAL STAFF SPOTLIGHT Ask the doctor: How can child and adolescent psychiatry help my loved one?
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MEDICAL STAFF UPDATE New faces at Bryan / Remembering our colleague
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PATIENT EXPERIENCE He’s in pain no more
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BRYAN INDOOR TRIATHLON
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ACHIEVEMENTS
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MERRICK MEDICAL CENTER
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VOLUNTEERS & CUSTOMER CARE Volunteering helps student prep for life
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BRYAN COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES
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ALUMNI NEWS
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Bryan Bariatric Advantage patients discover
A new lease on life
“You gave me my life back, my self-esteem back, my health back,” says Brian Kirstine. Like many people, Brian’s weight impacted all aspects of his life. He didn’t enjoy life and had major health concerns. All that changed when he met the team at Bryan Bariatric Advantage and made the decision to have weight loss surgery. Bryan Medical Center is nationally accredited for weight loss surgery. Our Bryan Bariatric Advantage program offers a comprehensive approach to help patients successfully lose weight and keep it off. It’s not just a surgery; it’s a life change. And the team is with patients before and long after surgery, providing care and support to change lives. For Kristin Steyer, health was also a big concern. “Before surgery, I took blood pressure medication and needed oxygen 24/7,” she says. “Now I’m off the oxygen and medication. I’ve lost 122 pounds and feel confident and energetic!” Brian and Kristin regained their lives and improved their health. You can, too. The first step takes courage. Bryan Bariatric Advantage will be with you all the way, offering the support you need. VIDEO
Learn more and see inspiring patient videos at bryanhealth.org/bariatric-patient-stories.
T H A N K YO U, B RYA N F O U N D AT I O N 2 0 1 9 E V E N T PA R T N E R S Inpatient Physician Associates Cornhusker Bank
Lockton Companies Mapes Industries
Runza
ALL ABOUT JOURNEYS
STAY IN TOUCH
Statesman William Jennings Bryan, one of the original benefactors of Bryan Health, said:
We welcome your comments. For more information about Journeys, contact the Advancement team by calling 402-481-8674. To learn more about Bryan programs and services, visit us online at bryanhealth.org.
Kimberly Russel President & CEO, Bryan Health
“Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice; it is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved.” Journeys tells our story of how Bryan chooses to achieve. This free publication is mailed quarterly to the communities we serve.
ON THE COVER Surgeon Brad Olberding, MD, helped treat BNSF engineer Mark Lautzenhiser for life-threatening pancreatitis. Their story begins on Page 2.
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OPPORTUNITIES TO SUPPORT Your contributions help us care for those who come to Bryan at every stage of life. To find out how you can participate, call 402-481-8605, or write to us at: Bryan Foundation 1600 S. 48th St., Lincoln, NE 68506 You can learn how to help and make a gift online at bryanhealth.org/bryan-foundation.
John Woodrich President & COO, Bryan Medical Center Darla Eisenhauer, MD Chief of Staff, Bryan Medical Staff Bob Ravenscroft Vice President of Advancement & CDO Edgar Bumanis Director of Public Relations Kevin Rummel, MD Medical Editor Paul Hadley Editor
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FROM OUR PRESIDENT
“Remember to celebrate milestones as you prepare for the road ahead.”
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s this edition of Journeys goes to print, patients and guests are seeing the first signs that renovation of our Bryan East Campus has begun. When the project is completed a little over three years from now, the entire patient experience will be transformed. See Pages 6 and 7 for details about the project and steps we’re taking to enhance our visitor’s convenience during construction. While beginning this project is a milestone to celebrate, it’s important to realize that planning for this project began years ago — starting with the purchase of houses in a two-square-block area northeast of the Bryan East Campus. This became the site of the 5055 Building, which includes medical office space and an outpatient surgery center with six operating rooms. The design process
– Nelson Mandela included input from the physicians and nurses who will work in the new surgical services areas, and we listened to guest suggestions to make our waiting areas welcoming and dynamic for all. The road ahead is exciting and it’s a long one — this transformation will advance patient care into the next 100 years. It’s one way, a significant way, Bryan Health is helping to keep your family healthy and prepared for the next chapter in their lives. Bryan Health. Forward. Together.
Kimberly A. Russel President and Chief Executive Officer, Bryan Health
This new first floor waiting area is being constructed adjacent to Bryan Café Express.
Bryan Journeys 1
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PAT I E N T E X P E R I E N C E
Dr. Brad Olberding (left) performed a series of surgeries to help BNSF engineer Mark Lautzenhiser recover from lifethreatening pancreatitis.
2 Spring 2019 This story is brought to you by the Lockton Companies.
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PAT I E N T E X P E R I E N C E
Helping Mark survive for
the long haul
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he lives of Mark and Lisa Lautzenhiser of Milford changed forever in September of 2016, after Mark experienced severe pain in his abdomen while at work as a railroad engineer for BNSF Railway. When the pain quickly worsened and spread to his chest, Mark was transported from that Burlington Northern train by ambulance and helicopter to Bryan East Campus. What happened next is the complicated, harrowing story of treatment and eventual recovery from necrotizing pancreatitis, a life-threatening medical condition caused by infection and death of tissue within the pancreas. Over 18 months, Mark underwent more than 28 surgeries by Brad Olberding, MD, and his partners from General Surgery Associates in order to save his life. Problems involving the pancreas, a 6-inch-long organ behind the stomach, can cause life-threatening conditions. “One of the many roles of the pancreas is to make enzymes that digest food. If the pancreas becomes irritated (a situation we call pancreatitis), these enzymes kill pancreas cells and begin to digest the pancreas itself and any tissue the enzymes come in contact with, including the stomach, liver, intestine and large blood vessels going to nearby organs,” Dr. Olberding explains. Pancreatitis can therefore be very serious, causing infection and hemorrhage as organs and blood vessels become damaged by pancreatic enzymes leaking into the abdomen.
Organs were failing “Mark was extremely ill — one of the sickest patients I’ve cared for in my career. When I joined his team of doctors, he was in multiorgan system failure, a very dangerous situation in which the heart, lungs, kidneys and other organs start to shut down at once. According to the risk calculator we use, Mark was at nearly 100 percent risk of death,” says Dr. Olberding. “When he didn’t improve with nonoperative measures, our team performed surgeries over several weeks to drain infection and remove damaged tissues, plus emergency Bryan Journeys 3
nies.
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PAT I E N T E X P E R I E N C E procedures to stop bleeding within his abdomen. Mark was in a therapeutic drug-induced coma for nearly two months, and at one point, nearly every system in his body was on life support. He had an average of 10 tubes coming out of him, and his toes were beginning to turn black.” Most people experiencing this extreme stage of pancreatitis do not survive, but Dr. Olberding, the ICU team and most importantly, Mark’s wife Lisa and their sons Jackson and Landon, never gave up hope. Some days, Mark was in the operating room more than once, and many days two or more nurses worked alongside one another providing his bedside care. Lisa spent hours each day massaging his muscles and toes to restore circulation. Eventually, Mark began to respond.
Putting Mark back together “Over the next many months,” says Dr. Olberding, “we put Mark back together. He made multiple trips to rehabilitation, then back to the hospital and ICU for numerous surgeries. Mark couldn’t eat for nearly a year of his life, was bed-ridden for over six months, and developed severe muscle wasting. This was a very long road that put everyone to the test, and there were many setbacks. At times, Mark wanted to give up, and sometimes, even I felt that might be the best thing for him. But Lisa never, ever gave up. It was during this time that the surgical team, Mark and Lisa really became a family.” Mark underwent the last of his 28 surgeries in February, 2018, and after several months of rehabilitation was able to go
home. In August 2018, two years after first becoming ill, Mark returned full time to his work as an engineer. “Other than having some dietary restrictions,” he says, “I feel fine now — like nothing ever happened. My recovery feels like a miracle, and I know I’m a very lucky man.”
Special team, special place Dr. Olberding points out that it takes a very large team to care for patients like Mark who need complicated care. “As the lead surgeon, I was perhaps the face of that team, but caring for Mark took everyone giving their 100 percent effort.” “A very important part of Mark’s recovery is the work done by the amazing ICU staff,” Dr. Olberding adds. “Also and most importantly, this story boils down to Mark’s wife Lisa — her unwavering support, her nearly around-the-clock presence at his bedside, and her many questions that helped her understand his treatment. It is without a doubt Mark is here because of her.” He continues, noting, “I truly feel Mark’s success story may not have been possible at any other facility. Lincoln is a unique medical community that combines advantages of university and community hospitals, in that we offer the expertise and sophisticated technology of a university in a community hospital setting our patients feel comfortable in. Patients who are very ill like Mark get superb care because Bryan consistently brings in top-level advances in medical and surgical treatment.” The surgeon adds, “There are other important advantages
Who is Dr. Olberding? Dr. Brad Olberding chose a career in medicine through a culmination of many experiences. “Growing up on a dairy farm, I learned to work hard, and that there really is no start or stop to a work day. As a nurses’ aide in high school I learned about excellent bedside manner, and to respect each and every nurse I work with. I was also privileged to work as a medic in Iraq and to do humanitarian work in El Salvador, and learned about empathy, compassion and humility in these desolate places,” he says. “Later, I learned from out-
standing leaders, educators and mentors in medical school at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, and during my surgical residency. “Away from work, I spend my time with my amazing wife Jackie, our 3-year-old Arlo and our newborn Zola. We enjoy fishing, camping or supporting our beloved Huskers, and hosting family and friends at home for nearly every occasion. Humanitarian mission trips are important to me, and I plan to get back to that when my children are older and can get involved.” n
4 Spring 2019
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PAT I E N T E X P E R I E N C E
Lisa (at center) and Mark are forever grateful for the care they received from these and many other Bryan East Campus co-workers. of being treated in an excellent hometown hospital like Bryan. Our physicians are a close-knit community, and when caring for complicated patients like Mark we discuss things often — sometimes daily — so communication between medical specialists is enhanced. Other advantages include family members’ ability to receive support from extended family when they are close to home. It’s also easier for medical specialists to communicate with patients’ hometown doctors, and for patients to receive care from specialty physicians at Bryan over time, say 20 or 30 years down the road.“
Grateful family
excellent — he was straightforward and honest, so we always knew where we were with Mark’s condition and treatment. We are also grateful to the pulmonologists, interventional radiologists, infectious disease specialists and the many other doctors who helped with Mark’s care. In addition and especially, we can’t say enough about the quality of the care we received — the 7th floor nurses, ICU nurses and other staff at Bryan were so supportive and felt like family to us. “It was an extraordinarily difficult journey over the two years of Mark’s illness,” she says. “Dr. Olberding and the other doctors and everyone at Bryan were there when we needed them, and we could not be more grateful.” n
“We endured this very long ordeal because of the exceptional care Mark received at Bryan, and because of family, friends and our faith in God,” says Lisa. “Dr. Olberding’s care was
To learn how you can support the work of Bryan Health, contact the Bryan Foundation at 402-481-8605.
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TRANSFORMING SURGERY
Follow the signs to progress Visitors at the Bryan East Campus entrance get an up close view of our $47 million surgery renovation project. We’re doing all we can to limit disruptions — such as rerouting traffic around the construction zone and increasing the staff that provides free valet parking at the front entrance. This exciting project will make patient experiences event better. We’re building larger operating rooms, new patient recovery rooms, expanding waiting areas and more! With all the amazing enhancements, the project is expected to be completed in early 2022. n Please see bryanhealth.org/transforming-surgery to learn more.
Free valet parking! Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
New temporary traffic pattern! For dropping off and picking up passengers in front of the medical center and Bryan Medical Plaza. The white fence encloses the construction zone. 6 Spring 2019
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BRYAN FOUNDATION
You’re helping us transform patient care
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or nearly a century, Bryan Health has been driven to provide the absolute best in health care. As we move into our next 100 years, this goal continues with the transformation of our patient experience at Bryan East Campus. Renovation of surgical services and public and support spaces is being funded by a $39 million investment from Bryan Health and $8 million in philanthropic support. The transformation of our patient experience involves enhancement to the Bryan East Campus entrance, waiting area expansions for the comfort of patients and guests, constructing 14 new operating rooms, pre- and post-operative facilities, and large special procedure rooms designed for maximum efficiency. That’s vital for accommodating emerging technologies. There are many ways to be involved in this exciting project. Gifts of all levels are welcome — and you may give online at bryanhealth.org/ bryan-foundation or meet with a Bryan Foundation staff member to explore unique giving arrangements and recognitions at a variety of levels. Here are some of our recent contributors:
To learn more about our 115,000square-foot renovation, go to bryanhealth.org/transforming-surgery.
Acklie Charitable Foundation Ameritas Anonymous Associated Anesthesiologists, PC Dr. Samuel & Patricia Boon George Carr Dr. Stephen & Beth Carveth Dr. John H. Casey Cintani Family Foundation Cornhusker Bank Everett & Elaine Evnen Farmers Mutual of Nebraska Russ & Jane Gronewold Jack & Lynelle Huck
Inpatient Physician Associates Drs. Beth & Steve Lau Meg & Jim Lauerman Lincoln Radiology Group Nebraska Pulmonary Specialties Pathology Medical Services Jim & Denise Peter Bob & Karen Ravenscroft Kimberly A. Russel & Dr. Dirk Brom Mark & Rita Walz John & Jeannie Woodrich
Questions? You can reach us at bryanfoundation@bryanhealth.org or call 402-481-8605.
This story is brought to you by Inpatient Physician Associates. Bryan Journeys 7
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MERRICK MEDICAL CENTER
Merrick Medical Center campaign builds on excellence to create healthier lives
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he time has come — to reenvision care, expand our services and create a better tomorrow for our patients, families and community. That’s the message from the Merrick Medical Center Board of Trustees. The medical center is embarking on an exciting transformational journey to create a completely new $20 million, 42,000-square-foot facility in Central City. The design will fully integrate health and wellness, create an environment that improves the patient experience and efficiency for staff, and ensure a sustainable facility inspired by its natural surroundings.
What are the key benefits to the community? The completed building will provide: u A welcoming environment with the flexibility to add services as our population’s needs change. u Closely aligned rehab and fitness to promote healthy lifestyles. u Wellness and lifestyle coaching to
prevent and manage chronic diseases, such as diabetes and high blood pressure. u Innovative technology to connect patients to life care and specialty services. u A community gathering place for fellowship, healthy dining and nutrition education. Merrick Medical Center President and CEO Paul Clark points out that a new facility will make our commitment to creating healthier lifestyles easier to achieve. But it can’t happen without your support. The Merrick Medical Center Foundation Board launched a capital campaign to raise $5 million to make the new medical center a reality. u Designing and constructing the facility will cost an estimated $20 million. u Bryan Health will guarantee up to $15 million in debt financing.
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Which leaves a $5 million goal from philanthropic support. And support to date has been strong — only about $1.3 million of the goal remains.
Successful rural health care requires local support — in spirit and in financial commitment. Ground will be broken once the $5 million in philanthropic support is secured. Go to bryanhealth.org/new-mmc to learn how to donate online or read about naming opportunities and see architect’s drawings. n To learn how you can make a difference in the lives of others, call Kaye Jesske at 402-481-8139 or Shauna Graham at 308-946-2229.
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BRYAN HEART
Dr. Bingham retires after 4 decades in medicine
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fter more than four decades in medicine, David Bingham, MD, of Bryan Heart Vascular Surgery retired in December. Dr. Bingham is a native of Laurel, Nebraska — and a pharmacist turned vascular surgeon. “While I had initially planned on a pharmacy career, I was always looking for the next challenge,” he says. “Back then, vascular surgery was in its early stages, and being able to repair people’s blood vessels was quite intriguing to me.” After graduating from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1971 with a B.S. in pharmacy, Dr. Bingham worked as a pharmacist at Mesa Lutheran Hospital in Arizona for about a year. He was then accepted into the University of Nebraska College of Medicine in Omaha, graduating in 1975. He later completed postgraduate training at Tucson Medical Center in Arizona, the State University of New York in Buffalo, and Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. “I was fortunate to be able to train under pioneers in the field,” he says.
After two years as a major in the Medical Corps of the United States Air Force, Dr. Bingham entered private practice at Eugene Clinic from 1984-1987. He joined the Bryan Medical Center team in 1987. He also was a member of the Vascular Lab Committee from 1991 and directed the Vascular Lab and was chairman of the Section of Vascular Surgery since 2003. This Board certified surgeon also was a member of a number of medical societies and associations. He dedicated much of his career to continuing education and research in the field — a trait he embodied from his early mentors. “The dramatic changes that have taken place in my specialty are remarkable,” Dr. Bingham explains. “It has been a huge challenge to embrace and learn the up-to-date techniques that have become commonplace in the vascular surgery field today.” When thinking of his time at Bryan, Dr. Bingham’s memories come back to people. “I love working with patients — helping them get better, saving lives and healing people,” he says. “I also enjoyed working with the office and hospital staff. They’re all great!” He’s looking forward to traveling, golfing and spending time with his children and grandchildren. n
Spring Cardiology Conference returns to UNL April 13 Bryan Heart hosts the annual Spring Cardiology Conference Saturday, April 13, in the Nebraska Union Auditorium on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus. This year’s event features cardiologists Chris Balwanz, MD; Matthew Johnson, MD; Keith Miller, MD; and John Steuter, MD; cardiothoracic surgeon Robert Oakes, MD; and vascular surgeon Sarah Ongstad, MD. For more information, visit bryanhealth.org/heartconference or call 402-483-3320.
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BRYAN HEART
Implantable loop recorder links diagnoses from years apart
More than a lucky catch
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n early December 2018, Wilma Jean Bender Kehler was walking through her kitchen when she suddenly felt faint. “I heard her say ‘Oh!’ and caught her as she started to go down,” says Larry Thorn, Jean’s friend and companion. “I could tell something was happening,” Jean says. “I never felt dizzy, but I knew I needed to grab onto something or sit down, quick.” At age 87, Jean is no stranger to inconveniences from her health. She and Larry help each other navigate their medical regimens and appointments, trying to minimize interferences. “I never know exactly what we’ll be doing from day to day,” Jean says. “We read newspapers and go out to eat when we can.
We like to go to the Simulcast horse racing building — and I have eight grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren living here in Lincoln that I like to see often.” After that first fainting spell in the kitchen, Jean had two or three more episodes in the following weeks. She was determined not to let them keep her from her routine. “The episodes passed pretty quickly,” Jean says. “But still, we thought there might be something wrong.” After Jean experienced an episode while waiting in line at a store, she decided something had to be done. “We went to our home doctor, Dr. John Deck, and he said Jean was definitely having a problem but maybe not related to her previous stroke, so he referred her to Bryan Heart,” Larry remembers.
What is syncope? Jean was experiencing syncope, or fainting spells caused by a period of inadequate blood flow to the brain. Syncope is common among people over 75, but it can occur at any age, with or without other medical issues. There is no single best treatment, and testing and monitoring over several weeks or months may be needed before doctors can diagnose the source of the problem and recommend a treatment. “Traditionally patients with these symptoms wear a Holter heart monitor for 24 hours to establish a diagnosis,” says cardiac electrophysiologist W. Michael Kutayli, MD, of Bryan Heart. “Some patients wear the monitor for two weeks to a month, because these arrhythmias can be sporadic and difficult to detect.”
Jean Kehler and Larry Thorn can relax, now that a heart rhythm monitor helped diagnose why she was having fainting spells.
This story brought to you by Mapes Industries. 10 Spring 2019
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BRYAN HEART But Dr. Kutayli was able to diagnose Jean and get her treated before the end of December because of a technology he prescribed for her nearly three Michael Kutayli, MD years before — a subcutaneous heart rhythm monitor, often called an implantable loop recorder. Long-term data makes difference The loop recorder is a cardiac monitor that doctors implant just under the patient’s skin, near the heart. The device is about the size of a AAA battery and connects to a mobile application to convey a wide range of data about the heart’s rhythms. Implanting it is a simple, outpatient procedure that takes minutes and requires no anesthesia. After implantation, doctors can check the patient’s data remotely, and patients can follow their information at home. “All you need is a cellular signal and a power outlet,” Dr. Kutayli says. “There also are smart phone applications that allow patients to mark when they are having symptoms with a few simple clicks. And they don’t need to come in for follow ups while we’re monitoring with a subcutaneous cardiac device.” The best part: Patients can keep the monitor for up to three years. That extended time period allows physicians to see longterm trends and gives the best possible opportunity for detecting arrhythmias. Dr. Kutayli was just about to remove Jean’s loop recorder when it provided the information needed for treating her syncope. Using technology for diagnosing Jean came to Bryan Heart in 2015 after she experienced an acute, cryptogenic
stroke — or a stroke of unknown origin. Dr. Kutayli suspected that atrial fibrillation — an irregular heartbeat — might have been the cause. “Atrial fibrillation gives a patient a fivetimes higher risk of stroke, and strokes from atrial fibrillation are often devastating,” says Dr. Kutayli. “Detecting the cause is paramount so we can prescribe the right course of treatment and prevent a future occurrence.” Stroke treatments range from lifestyle changes to medication to procedures like catheter ablation, which allows doctors to stop abnormal electrical signals in the heart. Dr. Kutayli wanted to make sure he gave Jean the most effective, minimally invasive course of treatment, so he recommended the implantable loop recorder to confirm atrial fibrillation as the cause of her stroke. Physicians use the monitor for patients who fall into four broad categories of symptoms: unexplained stroke, heart palpitations, fainting, and to detect atrial fibrillation. “What’s interesting about Jean’s case is that she experienced the full range of
Conditions that may require monitoring Understanding potential heart conditions is key to finding answers. Continuous heart monitoring gives your doctor important information for diagnosing underlying conditions, such as: u Unexplained fainting — also called syncope or blacking out. u Heart palpitations. u Atrial fibrillation — the heart’s upper chambers beat very fast and irregularly, so the heart can’t pump blood effectively. Left untreated, it can lead to a stroke. u Unexplained stroke.
symptoms, from rapid, irregular heartbeat to fainting caused by slow heartbeat, over the life of that monitor,” Dr. Kutayli says. Diagnosed, treated and home in days When Jean came in for treatment for her syncope, her heart rate was in the 30s while she was awake — much lower than it should have been. Dr. Kutayli recommended a pacemaker, which she received at Bryan December 28. “I’ve been feeling really good since then,” Jean says. Larry says the process was fairly easy, and they felt comfortable with the Bryan Health staff. “The service was really good,” he notes. “The nurses, doctors, everybody was great. They wanted to get us home pretty fast, but they said they wouldn’t send us home until we were ready to go.” Emerging technologies are priority Dr. Kutayli says that Jean’s speedy diagnosis and recovery is a direct result of the technology available at Bryan Health. “Research shows that many patients don’t have signs of arrhythmia until 120 days after the subcutaneous cardiac monitor is implanted,” Dr. Kutayli says. “We never would have been able to make both Jean’s stroke and syncope diagnoses as quickly and easily with a traditional heart monitor.” The staff at Bryan Heart implanted 160 loop recorders in 2018, and unlike many other medical centers, Bryan offers two brands. Dr. Kutayli says the hospital’s support for technology and innovation makes a big difference for his patients. “We’re so dependent on technology in my field, and Bryan Health provides us with all the things we need to help people, so they don’t have to go to Kansas City or Rochester,” Dr. Kutayli says. “We have all the technology we need to give them the best care.” n To learn how you can support the work of Bryan Heart, call 402-481-8605.
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PAT I E N T S G I V E B A C K TO CO M M U N I T Y
B-Buddies stuffed animals offer comfort after infant loss
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ne of the most important weighted to the birth weight of Bryson, things you can do in this and it holds the place of our baby. When life is to bring peace and we’re really missing Bryson, we can hold comfort to others,” says it just to feel his weight and it offers a Becca Kucera. In recent bit of comfort,” Becca explains. “I want years, Becca has become a champion of families to be able to take home with them a B-Buddy weighted similar to their comfort and awareness for pregnancy and infant loss, and Bryan Health is own baby, as a tangible object to comfort them when they need it most.” walking with her and others sharing this journey. In creating the program, Becca, who was a long-time lab technician at Bryan Pregnancy and loss has been an Health, and ongoing experience for Becca and her Casey teamed up with husband, Casey. After “We carry them in our Chaplain Nina the loss of 10 babies in pregnancy and Redl. hearts. With B-Buddies, The the birth of their son we can carry them chaplain Greyson — known as a rainbow baby for worked with in our arms.” the Bryan being born after the – Becca Kucera loss of an unborn or Foundation to find initial stillborn baby — they funding are working to help for the new program. A resulting others who have experienced loss find grant, funded by donations from the comfort through their B-Buddies program. Becca had the idea for B-Buddies community, was critical to starting in 2015. After giving birth to a precious B-Buddies, which offers hope and healing stillborn son, Bryson, Becca felt a to so many. tremendous sense of loss. “The feeling of pain, shock, despair She says, “Leaving the hospital and hurt from losing the hope and without our baby was terribly difficult, dreams of being a parent of a healthy and I knew something about that process baby is very difficult. You can’t completely needed to change.” erase the loss of being able to hold your Enter B-Buddies. This program takes baby, but a B-Buddy can give the first toy animals and changes their stuffing to measure of comfort and ever so slightly match the approximate weight of babies ease the ache of empty arms,” says Redl. at the time of loss. “With B-Buddies, from the moment “We have a stuffed monkey that I had the parents leave the hospital, they will
have a weighted stuffed animal to carry home — to love and to hold onto in hard moments as they work through their grieving process.” Becca says, “I believe there is no footprint too small that cannot leave an imprint on this world. I want to end the stigma that surrounds pregnancy and infant loss. Babies lost at any gestation are worth remembering.” This program has now become a part of her life’s work. “I didn’t know until after losing our son that my crafting abilities would become such a large part of my life and helping others. Now, B-Buddies and its mission is truly the core of my being. I want every loss family to have the opportunity to receive a B-Buddy to hold their baby’s place. I also want others out there to know they are loved.” Redl says, “Obviously, this can never replace a baby, but it’s a positive way for a parent to hold onto the love they have for that child and physically hold the stuffed animal while they tell themselves, I can do this.” n B-Buddies and Bryan Health are helping families find peace in their time of need. For more information about this bereavement program, call 402-481-8064. Monetary gifts are welcome. To learn how you can support the work of Bryan Health, contact the Bryan Foundation at 402-481-8605.
This story is brought to you by Cornhusker Bank. 12 Spring 2019
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Becca Kucera (right) and her husband Casey started B-Buddies with help from Chaplain Nina Redl and the Bryan Foundation. Casey is holding a stuffed monkey that was weighted to be the birth weight of the Kuceras’ stillborn son Bryson. The comfort the toy brought the couple became the impetus for the B-Buddy program, which helps other parents experiencing loss.
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CRETE AREA MEDICAL CENTER
MFR releases Tammy’s pain
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fter a diagnosis of thyroid cancer in 2012, surgeons removed Tammy Steer’s thyroid. Another surgery followed to remove lymph nodes — including 34 from the right side of her neck. Her health recovered, but the quality of life she’d had before surgery proved elusive. The right side of her neck was numb for a long time. “I’d stand in the shower and only feel water on half of my neck,” she recalls. Tammy found short-term relief in chiropractic care, but the pain eventually returned. By August of 2018, she rated her pain levels as high as they were in the days following surgery. It hurt to turn her head, making driving difficult. Pain stole her sleep.
Laura Anderson provides pain-reducing MFR treatments for Tammy Steer at CAMC.
MFR was the answer When an employee at Crete Area Medical Center suggested she see occupational therapist Laura Anderson to try a form of treatment called Myofascial Release (MFR), Tammy was cautiously optimistic. “I was hopeful when I went in. I’m a big believer in physical therapy and I knew this treatment was related to that.” It turned out to be the missing piece Tammy needed. She finished treatment in
November. The Crete resident’s pain levels have plummeted and she sleeps through the night. Perhaps most importantly, she no longer needs the prescription muscle relaxant she took for pain relief. “I haven’t had to use that since,” she says. New treatment option Myofascial Release was one tool Laura used with Tammy to relieve pain. It combines manual therapy techniques and gentle, sustained pressure to the myofascial connective tissue (membranes that wrap, connect and support muscles) to restore postural alignment and reduce pain. Laura, who has a doctorate in occupational therapy from Creighton University, works in CAMC’s Rehabilitation Department and also treats patients in skilled nursing, home health and hospital-based settings. She took MFR training in the hope that it could provide another treatment option in the community, one that can sometimes help patients relieve pain while primary care doctors work to reduce pain medication. Most of her patients arrive with chronic pain, or problems following surgery, trauma, inflammation, headaches, neck, back and shoulder issues or other triggers causing tightness,
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CRETE AREA MEDICAL CENTER to have her on the team here.” Patients need a doctor’s referral for MFR, which is covered by insurance if a policy includes outpatient therapy benefits. At CAMC, patients are treated in a quiet, private room with a changing area. Treatments generally take one hour. Although Myofascial Release has been used for many years, Laura says there still are misconceptions about it, namely confusing it with massage therapy.
Tammy discusses her treatment options with Laura. pain and reduced movement. “As a therapist, I really wanted to find a way to help them, especially amidst the opioid crisis taking place on a national level. The great thing about MFR is that it’s a non-pharmacological painmanagement therapy.” For example, another patient recently came to Laura specifically to reduce pain levels, and in turn, the amount of opioid medication prescribed for pain. Over a six-week span (working in conjunction with the patient’s physician), MFR and other therapy treatments allowed that patient to reduce
medication without increased pain. “I wish more people knew that this treatment was available to them,” Laura says. It’s exciting to offer this type of treatment to patients, says Rebekah Mussman, President and CEO of CAMC. “Over the last two years our providers have taken an active role in addressing the opioid epidemic, and this program fits hand-in-hand with what we are trying to accomplish in regards to pain-management alternatives,” she explains. “Laura is extremely passionate about her work and does an excellent job — we are blessed
Targets source of pain MFR is a therapy appointment versus a massage appointment, she clarifies. Treatment begins with an assessment of pain levels, mobility, stability and gross and fine motor skills. The therapist and patient set goals. Some, like Tammy, want to be able to sleep without pain. Others want to lower pain levels in order to continue activities they enjoy, whether it’s gardening or making a meal. MFR techniques are targeted to the source of pain and often are combined with other treatments, such as therapeutic taping, decompressive cupping and Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM), which uses specially designed stainless steel instruments to detect and treat trouble spots like scar tissue or areas of chronic inflammation. “I like to have a large toolbox of treatment techniques
I can use to help people,” Laura says. “For some, MFR alone isn’t enough.” The tray of tools by the treatment bed may look intimidating but are no cause for worry, she assures. The treatments aren’t painful. The biggest difference from other treatments, in Laura’s opinion, is the longevity of the therapy and its goal of independence. She trains patients on specific stretches and exercises to continue at home and sometimes trains spouses or family members to assist the patient after discharge. “I make sure they get the home-exercise program that they need to make sure pain relief lasts more than just a day or a week — I want people to graduate from my program. I love that this can provide immediate relief and lasting relief, as well,” she says. For Tammy, the final goal was independence. Laura taught Tammy to perform neck stretches and to gently maneuver the scar tissue in her neck to maintain range of motion. Tammy’s mother was trained, too. The relief achieved a few weeks into therapy continues, Tammy points out. She can still turn her head normally, sleep and drive comfortably. “I’ve told people MFR was the best thing I did after surgery. You have to look around and find what works for you.” n
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MEDICAL STAFF SPOTLIGHT
Ask the doctor: How can child and adolescent psychiatry help my loved one? In the following interview, Matthew Wittry, DO, of Bryan Heartland Psychiatry, part of the Bryan Physician Network, answers common questions. Q: Please describe the role of a child and adolescent psychiatrist. In what age range are your patients? To me, this line of medicine is all about helping children and families reach their fullest potential in life. The role of a child and adolescent psychiatrist is to diagnose and treat mental illness and emotional problems. Common issues treated are of thoughts, feelings and/or behaviors. Typically we treat schoolaged children, but we occasionally see younger patients. Q: How do symptoms and treatments for young patients differ from adults? One of the great benefits of working with young people is that we have a great window of opportunity to change the trajectory of their lives. Sometimes people can see children and adolescents as little adults, but in reality their brains are still developing. Therefore, symptoms and treatments are unique to both the age and the child. Q: What do you look for when identifying issues for young people? We were all young once, and we know that growing up is not easy. When working with young people, it’s important to differentiate between typical and atypical. When a child is having problems that are negatively impacting themselves and their families, it is a good sign that professional help is warranted. Q: What conditions do you diagnose and treat? We treat the full spectrum of psychiatric issues that can help
young people. Often an issue in one area of life can spill over into other areas, so there should be a holistic approach. For example, depression can present as irritability. That irritability can impact a child’s ability to make friends at school or to get along well with family, which, in turn, leads to further issues. The important thing here is to know that depression is treatable with professional help and it may help to improve many areas of life for the young person. Q: What other types of doctors do you often work with? This is another example where care is specific to the young person, but generally speaking, we work with primary care physicians or pediatricians. We also see referrals from schools, counselors, therapists or from parents directly. Personally, I tend to find myself working more with other physicians when we are working in an inpatient setting versus an outpatient setting. Q: How does the role of a psychiatrist differ from a psychologist? This is a great question because it can be confusing at face value; however, there are important differences when seeking care and treatment. In a nutshell, a psychiatrist has earned a medical degree while a psychologist attends graduate school to earn a doctorate of philosophy or psychology.
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MEDICAL STAFF SPOTLIGHT When treatment requires both medication management and psychotherapy, you will need to see a psychiatrist instead of or in addition to a psychologist. Q: What interested you in this field of medicine? The greatest hope we have for a better tomorrow is in improving lives of children today. I always enjoyed science and people. In my third year of medical school, my psychiatry rotation happened to be in child and adolescence psychiatry. The doctor with whom I worked became a mentor, and every day I could see how deeply life-changing the combination of resources, education and treatment is in healing lives and families. Truly, treating young people is a privilege. Q: What are you seeing in our daily lives that you want to help? While as a society, we are becoming more educated and more aware of mental illness and its prevalence, we are largely still pushing those boulders up the hill. The challenge with mental illness is that it isn’t always as obvious as a blood test or a cast on a broken arm. People can be struggling deeply with mental illness and others around them may not even be aware. We also have a tendency to tell people to just “tough it out” when the going gets rough, but with mental illness, professional help is needed, and it can be difficult for the person struggling to ask for help. If we can continue to educate and spread awareness, we can release the stigma and help society move in a positive direction. Q: Why did you choose to practice with Bryan Health? Bryan Health is amazing at providing the full spectrum of care from outpatient services, which include evaluations, therapies and medical management, to partial hospitalization, inpatient psychiatric units and integration with community initiatives, including support service for the individuals and families. Caring for people in this all-inclusive,
universal approach leads to some of the best possible outcomes. It’s an honor to be part of a professional community that cares about and is working to help people be their healthiest and live their greatest lives. Q: What energizes you? Because Bryan has so many tailored areas of care, I have the unique opportunity to stay up to speed on best practices and build my network for the betterment of my patients and the community. Q: What’s next in psychiatry? We are living in an incredible time with medicine advancing at near light speed. Psychiatry is changing every day, too, as we see more integrated care and have better access to information and technology than ever before. Additionally, we are becoming more aware of how important mental health is to overall wellness and a high quality of life. Most likely, psychiatry will continue to become more prominent in health care, which will lead to greater outcomes for children, individuals, families, the workforce and society as a whole. There are great things ahead when we embrace advancement, education and treatment. n
Matthew Wittry, DO, has joined Bryan Heartland Psychiatry, which is part of the Bryan Physician Network, 402-483-8555. Dr. Wittry works to build relationships and trust with youth and parents. He earned a medical degree in 2013 from Des Moines University in Iowa and completed a residency and fellowship at the University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine in Sioux Falls. He also earned a masters in microbiology at South Dakota State University in Brookings. Regarding family, Dr. Wittry says: I am super blessed with my wonderful wife, our toddler and newborn baby. Hobbies? Music, sports, running, family meals at local restaurants and reading professional journal articles. Vacations? We love living in Nebraska, but we certainly enjoy vacations to the beach to enjoy warm sand and the peacefulness of the ocean. His favorite quote is from Ursula K. LeGuin: “It is good to have an end to journey toward, but it is the journey that matters in the end.”
VIDEO
To see a video interview with Dr. Wittry, please go to bryanhealth.org/DrWittry.
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MEDICAL STAFF UPDATE
New faces at
Bryan
Welcome these colleagues to the Bryan medical community Michael Aaronson, MD, nephrology, has joined Lincoln Nephrology and Hypertension, 402-484-5600. Dr. Aaronson is certified in nephrology and internal medicine through the American Board of Internal Medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Connecticut School of Medicine in Farmington. He completed his residency in internal medicine and a fellowship in nephrology at the University of Minnesota Medical School in Minneapolis. Dr. Aaronson has served as an assistant professor at Creighton University Medical Center in Omaha and as director of a dialysis center in Bellevue. He has published several articles and served on multiple committees throughout his career. He enjoys spending time with his family and exercising, and he values lifelong learning. Carlos Calisto-Perez, MD, internal medicine/hospitalist, has joined Inpatient Physician Associates, 402-481-8566. Dr. Calisto-Perez earned his medical degree in 2006 from the Universidad Central del Caribe School of Medicine in Bayamon, Puerto Rico. In 2011, he completed his residency training at Hospital Damas, Ponce School of Medicine Consortium, in Puerto Rico. Since 2013, he has served as an internal medicine physician at the Hospital Interamericano de Medicina Avanzada San
Pablo in Caguas, Puerto Rico. Dr. Calisto-Perez is certified in internal medicine through the American Board of Internal Medicine, and he is a member of the American Board of Internal Medicine and the Colegio de Medicos Cirujanos de Puerto Rico. This hospitalist has served as a volunteer to provide medical care for the homeless and also assisted with earthquake relief efforts in Haiti. Scott Cameron, MD, internal medicine/hospitalist, is associated with Inpatient Physician Associates Columbus, 402-562-4442. Dr. Cameron, a Herman, Nebraska, native, completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in finance. After three years in banking, he became interested in medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine, Omaha, in 2012. During his time there, he participated in several research projects. He went on to complete an internship and residency in internal medicine at UNMC and joined Columbus Community Hospital in 2015 as a hospitalist. Dr. Cameron is certified in internal medicine through the American Board of Internal Medicine, and he is a member of the American Medical Association and the American College of Physicians. Jack Lionberger, MD, internal medicine/hospitalist, is associated with Inpatient Physician Associates, 402-481-8566. Dr. Lionberger earned his medical degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine in Omaha in 2001. He completed his internal medicine residency training at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health in Madison. Dr. Lionberger completed a medical oncology fellowship with the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, Washington and a genetics of aging fellowship through the pathology department at the University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle. Before joining Inpatient Physician Associates, Dr.
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MEDICAL STAFF UPDATE Lionberger was a hospitalist at Mercy Hospital South in St. Louis, Missouri. Dr. Lionberger has had numerous articles published, as well as significant teaching and presentation experience. He won several awards during his time at UNMC, including the Thomas Jefferson Ingenuity Award for his doctoral dissertation. Andrew Moellering, MD, internal medicine, has joined Madonna Rehabilitation Specialists, 402-413-3531. Dr. Moellering is a Lincoln native, who graduated from the University of NebraskaLincoln with a degree in biochemistry. He earned his medical degree in 2012 from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine in Omaha, where he also completed his residency training in internal medicine. Before joining Madonna Rehabilitation Specialists, Dr. Moellering was an assistant professor at UNMC. He served on several committees and acted as a consultant for neurosurgery during his time there. He is certified in internal medicine through the American Board of Internal Medicine.
Welcome, advanced practice providers and independent practitioners These advanced practice providers and independent practitioners are working at Bryan Medical Center: Sandra Breach, LCSW, Bryan Counseling Center Wendy Hoins, APRN-NP, Bryan Heartland Psychiatry, part of the Bryan Physician Network Ashley Johnson, PA-C, Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Associates Melany Murray, APRN-NP, Bryan Heartland Psychiatry, part of the Bryan Physician Network Abby Russell, PA-C, Lincoln Orthopaedic Center Matthew Springer, CRNA, Associated Anesthesiologists Allison Stark, APRN, Inpatient Physician Associates
Remembering our
colleague Robert “Bob� Bruce Synhorst, MD, of Lincoln died October 22, 2018. He was 88. This Grand Island native was born in 1930. He earned an undergraduate degree from Hastings College, and in 1955, he earned his medical degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine in Omaha. Dr. Synhorst completed his surgical internship at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and attained the rank of captain. After his two years of service, he completed his residency in urology at the University of Iowa in Iowa City. Dr. Synhorst and his family moved to Lincoln after his training. In 1963, he joined the Bryan Memorial Hospital medical staff, and he was one of the five original partners who established Urology PC in 1972. During his career, he also was an adjunct professor with the University of Nebraska Medical Center School of Medicine. In his free time, he enjoyed traveling with his family, gardening, golfing and entertaining friends and family at his home. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jeane; their children, Paul and Lynn and their spouses; his in-laws, two grandchildren; four great-grandchildren and a niece and nephew.
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Doug Neberman is back working in his auto body shop after a unique stent treated his pancreatic pseudocyst.
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n
y
PAT I E N T E X P E R I E N C E
He’s in pain no more
D
oug Neberman of Lincoln grew up in New England, where lobster fishing was part of the way of life. In 2017, a tiny innovative medical device shaped like a lobster trap successfully solved the severe pain and dramatic weight loss he suffered because of a pancreatic pseudocyst.
Blame it on the pseudocyst Pancreatic pseudocysts are pockets of fluid lying within the pancreas, an organ behind the stomach that produces digestive enzymes and some hormones. In addition to fluid, pseudocysts sometimes contain dead cells from damaged pancreatic tissue. Pseudocysts can be quite large, up to 10 inches across, so they may put pressure on surrounding organs, causing pain, poor appetite and weight loss. If infected they often leak or rupture, causing potentially life-threatening infection of surrounding tissues. Doug, retired now after owning an auto body shop in Waverly for 45 years, was diagnosed with a pancreatic
GI Specialties Lab manager Penny LeDuc and Dr. Erik Bowman pose with some of the equipment used during Doug Neberman’s series of outpatient procedures at Bryan. pseudocyst in April of 2017. “My problem started as very sudden, intense abdominal pain. My wife Monica took me to the emergency room, where the doctors found that the pain was caused by a pseudocyst.” Doug’s physicians observed him for several days but decided to hold off on surgery because his symptoms were lessening, and pseudocysts often improve on their own.
Drastic weight loss After returning home, Doug quickly lost weight due to poor appetite, dropping from 354 pounds to 254 pounds in just four months. “At that point, I had another bout of severe pain from the pseudocyst,” he says. “This time, I was seen by an excellent gastroenterologist, Erik Bowman, MD, of Gastroenterology Specialties in Lincoln, who suggested
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PAT I E N T E X P E R I E N C E placing a small tube called a ‘stent’ into the pseudocyst to help it drain. “Dr. Bowman placed the stent with a lighted, flexible tube called an endoscope, which he guided into my stomach through my mouth. This was a pretty short procedure, and I returned home the same day. Within a couple days of getting the stent I felt much better,” says Doug. “I was getting around with little pain, and food started tasting good again.” He points out, “Dr. Bowman left the stent in place for six weeks to make sure the pseudocyst drained and healed up well. Then he removed the stent in a simple 10-minute visit, and again, we went home that same day.”
Unique stent to the rescue Dr. Bowman used the Hot Axios Stent and Electrocautery System to treat Doug’s condition. “It is quite unusual,” says Dr. Bowman, “because it’s the first stent in the U.S. that can be placed using ultrasound-guided endoscopy, making it a minimally-invasive procedure.” This new approach has revolutionized treatment of pseudocysts, which previously required major abdominal surgery or endoscopic placement of stents designed for the bile duct. The innovative Hot Axios System contains a cutting tool that makes a small opening into the pseudocyst through the wall of the stomach or intestine, then places the stent through that small opening. Once in place, the stent continuously drains the pseudocyst and allows the gastroenterologist to guide an endoscope into the interior of the pseudocyst to clean out additional fluid or dead tissue cells, promoting healing. This healing
Doug says the shape of the life-saving Hot Axios Stent reminds him of a lobster trap.
process takes four to six weeks, during which time endoscopies are repeated as needed until no fluid or dead tissue remain within the pseudocyst. The stent is removed during the final endoscopy procedure, and the small opening created by the stent heals on its own. Dr. Bowman’s partners, gastroenterologists James Roat, MD, and Michael Roth, MD, also treat patients with the Hot Axios System. “Candidates for the procedure are patients with no bleeding into the pseudocyst and whose pseudocysts have been present for at least four weeks,” Dr. Bowman explains. “Also, to be drainable with a stent, pseudocysts must be within a half inch of the stomach or upper small bowel so the gastroenterologist can reach it with an endoscope. “Finally, the pseudocyst must be causing noticeable symptoms. “Symptoms of pseudocysts requiring treatment include pain, decreased appetite, and weight loss.”
No more problems Doug has had no problems with the pseudocyst since the stent treatment. “Life is back to normal,” he says. “Dr. Bowman and the staff at Bryan took very good care of me — I could not have been better treated by my own family. We’re very satisfied with how things turned out.” Doug adds, “One more thing — my first thought when I saw that stent was that it looked exactly like a tiny lobster trap. So just for fun, I asked Dr. Bowman to give it to me after the surgery, and my wife and I keep it in a shadow box at home. “It’s a great conversation starter.” n To find out how you can support the work of Bryan Health, please contact the Bryan Foundation at 402-481-8605.
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BRYAN INDOOR TRIATHLON
Tri, Tri, Tri again More than 100 athletes competed Jan. 26 in the annual indoor triathlon at Bryan LifePointe Campus.
Whether cycling, swimming or running, most participants found time for smiles! See our Bryan Indoor Triathlon photo album at facebook.com/ BryanHealth. Bryan Bryan Journeys Journeys 23
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ACHIEVEMENTS
Evnen to lead AHA Committee on Governance
Stones earns trustee and nursing laurels
Bryan Medical Center Board Trustee Richard Evnen has been selected to chair the American Hospital Association’s (AHA) Committee on Governance (COG) in 2020. Evnen has been a member of the COG for three years. He began his new three-year term January 1 — he will serve one year as chair-elect, one year as chair and one year as immediate past chair. Bryan Health President and CEO Kim Russel notes, “The COG is composed of an ‘A List’ of hospital trustees from throughout the country. Members possess advanced hospital governance experience and knowledge, and the COG advises the American Hospital Association on national policy to represent, guide and assist our nation’s hospitals. “Richard’s appointment to lead this group is a true reflection of his personal
Linda Stones, patient care services director for rehabilitation and athletic training, has achieved Nebraska Hospital Association (NHA) Certified Hospital Trustee status for the fourth consecutive year. NHA President Laura Redoutey notes, “She’s proven her dedication to high standards and accountability by demonstrating commitment to improving the performance of the Crete Area Medical Center Board of Trustees, pursuing ongoing education and moving beyond the basics of governance to forward thinking and a strategic understanding of the health care environment.” Stones achieved Individual Trustee Education Certification through the Nebraska Hospital Association Research and Educational Foundation’s “Hospital Trustee Community Accountability Education Certification Program.” The Bryan Health Board of Trustees and the Bryan Medical Center Board of Trustees took additional steps to become NHA Boardcertified organizations. They have adhered to specific, predefined governance standards that exemplify
Richard Evnen
leadership skills. His insights into health care and our community are a true asset. Now, he can share his knowledge on a national scale.” The COG is the primary vehicle for leading effective trustee involvement in grassroots advocacy, providing input into policy and enhancing involvement of trustees in the AHA. “This is an extraordinary honor,” Evnen notes. “I look forward to working with colleagues around the country to further engage trustees in the American Hospital Association’s efforts to strengthen care in America.” Evnen has served on the Bryan Medical Center Board since 2009, and he chaired the board from 2013-2016. n
Linda Stones
community accountability and outreach, responsibility for quality and safety of care to address identified needs, and characteristics of a highperformance board. Stones also was appointed to serve a five-year term as the nursing service administrator for the Nebraska State Board of Nursing. This board consists of eight RNs, two LPNs and two members of the public. The board is responsible for protecting the health, safety and welfare of the public. Its 12 members review license applications and disciplinary actions regarding nurses, and they adopt standards for nursing practice and education in Nebraska. n
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ACHIEVEMENTS
They’re the Caring Kind
Kimberly Russel
Russel wins ACHE award Bryan Health President and CEO Kimberly Russel received the Senior Level Healthcare Executive Award from the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) Regents of Nebraska and Western Iowa. Russel, who’s led Bryan since 2008, is a Fellow of ACHE and serves on the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Board of Trustees. She also is involved in the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce Board and is on the board of the Omaha Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. n
The Nebraska Hospital Association (NHA) recognized Shannon Beck, RN, Marla Martin, LPN-C, and information technology manager Christi Moock with Caring Kind Awards at this year’s annual NHA conference. Beck says, “I love my job at Merrick Medical Center, working with family and friends to take care of family and friends. I worked here for about nine years, then was away a short time before coming back to Central City three years ago. “I was so honored to be nominated — I work with a lot of fantastic people. Here I do a little bit of everything as an RN — emergency, inpatients, outpatients, recovery room. That variety is what I love
about working in a critical access hospital.” Martin is a 23-year Crete Area Medical Center employee. “I’m a licensed practical nurse working as an acute care staff nurse,” she says. “Because CAMC is a rural hospital, I’m able to care for patients in varying levels of care in any given shift. I really enjoy caring for patients as they go through the healing process, and I love talking with them and getting to know them better. “I felt very honored to have been chosen, but I could not have received this award without my fellow employees.” Moock has worked at Bryan Medical Center more than 16 years. “I’m an IT project manager, helping implement new
technology and improvements to existing programs,” she says. “For the last three years, the majority of my time involved our Epic implementation. “I love that the work is always changing — with improvements in technology, we are bringing more information to the bedside clinician and providing real time information to impact care. This job gives me the opportunity to make work easier for our employees and providers and to improve the hospital experience for our patients.” For nearly 40 years, NHA has honored hospital employees who demonstrate compassion for patients, cooperation with co-workers and dedication to excellence. n
Shannon Beck
NHA President Laura Redoutey with Marla Martin
Christi Moock
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ACHIEVEMENTS
Bryan gets national accreditation for bariatric surgery program
Randy Amundson (left) and Bruce Wood with award recipients Heather Seeba and Jacob New and their nominator, Trevis Gale.
New and Seeba receive ESGR Patriot Awards Purchasing manager Jacob New and supply chain director Heather Seeba received Patriot Awards through a Nebraska Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) program. Senior buyer Trevis Gale, who’s a Chief Petty Officer in the Navy SeaBees stationed at Offutt Air Force Base in Omaha, nominated his managers. This U.S. Navy Reserve CPO wrote, “They were incredibly supportive of my mobilization and deployment. Both ensured a seamless transition into my role on my return to Bryan. I am very grateful to have an employer who has gone to such lengths to support me, my family and the Navy. I’m grateful to be a part of this organization.” ESGR volunteers Bruce
Wood and Randy Amundson say the Department of Defense program fosters a culture in which employers support employment and military service of National Guard and Reserve members. “The Patriot Award was created to publicly recognize individuals who provide outstanding patriotic support and cooperation to their employees, who like the citizen warriors before them have answered their nation’s call to serve,” Wood noted during the awards presentation. “Supportive supervisors are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s Guard and Reserve units, and it’s a pleasure to recognize Heather and Jacob and Bryan Medical Center.” n
Bryan Medical Center achieved Comprehensive Center accreditation through the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program. Bryan’s bariatric surgery program offers weight loss surgery options, expertise and support for people ready to lose weight and improve their health. This ACS designation
recognizes Bryan’s commitment to quality. Bryan Bariatric Advantage patients receive significant education and support before, during and after surgery. This approach ensures patients receive a multidisciplinary program, not just a surgical procedure, and it improves outcomes and long-term success. To learn more about weight loss surgery and Bryan Bariatric Advantage, call 402-481-5490 or visit bryanhealth.org/bariatrics. n
NHA President Laura Redoutey (left) congratulates perioperative and wound care nursing team representatives Julie Smith, RN, Rose Yankech, RN, and Andrea Williams, RN. The team earned a Quest for Excellence Award for achieving a 75 percent reduction in perioperative pressure injuries within just one year.
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ACHIEVEMENTS
Five saluted as emerging leaders
Ken Foster
Janice Ayres, Jessica Hanes, Rachel Pejsar-Snelling, Kimberly Anderson and Sara Hennessy
The Nebraska Action Coalition (NAC) included five Bryan Health colleagues among those receiving 40 Under 40 Emerging Nurse Leader Awards. Honorees are: • Janice Ayres, RN, BSN, Bryan Specialty Clinic; • Kimberly Anderson, RN, MLS, nurse manager, geriatrics; • Jessica Hanes, RN, MSN, clinical educator,
Continuing Education; • Sara Hennessy, RN, nurse manager, medicalsurgical oncology; and • Rachel Pejsar-Snelling, RN, MSN, clinical educator, Continuing Education. “Nurses are the heartbeat of health care. Their knowledge, input and compassion are vital as we implement best practice and give our patients the very best care possible,” notes Lisa
Vail, vice president of patient care services. “It is very gratifying to have these five outstanding nurses recognized for their hard work and dedication.” NAC honors 40 nurses for their unique contributions to leadership within the nursing profession. This statewide award aligns with the national Future of Nursing: Campaign for Action initiative to build a healthier America. n
Diabetes prevention program earns CDC recognition Bryan Medical Center’s diabetes prevention program earned full recognition from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “This designation is reserved for programs that
have effectively delivered a quality, evidence-based program,” says Ann Albright, director of the recognition program. “The sustained success of your lifestyle change
program makes an invaluable contribution. Programs like yours are turning the tide in the fight against the epidemic of type 2 diabetes.” n
Rural hospitals honor Foster Ken Foster, development officer for Bryan Health’s Rural Division, won the 2018 President’s Award from the Nebraska Rural Health Association (NeRHA). According to the NeRHA, he has had a significant impact in improving health for all Nebraskans. Ken served as Bryan’s vice president of strategic planning and regional development and was executive director of the Heartland Health Alliance (HHA) for 20 years. As a rural development officer, he focuses on connecting rural hospitals with resources available from Bryan Health and the HHA. He’s also on the Merrick Medical Center Board and served as chair of the Nebraska State Telehealth Network. n
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MERRICK MEDICAL CENTER
Merrick earns performance awards
M
errick Medical Center is excited to announce it’s been recognized for being one of America’s top rural hospitals for overall excellence in quality and patient perspective. The Chartis Center for Rural Health and the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH) say Merrick Medical Center’s overall excellence reflects top quartile performance in these categories. “These awards reflect the hard work and dedication of our entire medical center staff in improving the quality of care here in Merrick County,” says Paul Clark, the medical center’s CEO and president. “I am tremendously proud of each member of our team because these results could not have been achieved without everyone coming together to focus on our patients.” Performance Leadership Awards spotlight
top performance in the areas of quality, outcomes and patient perspective. Awards are determined each year using iVantage Health Analytics’ Hospital Strength INDEX, a comprehensive assessment of rural hospital performance. Leveraging information from public data sources, the INDEX aggregates data from 50 rural-relevant metrics across eight pillars to derive a single overall percentage rating for critical access hospitals and rural and community hospitals. “We’re thrilled to partner with NOSORH on this program and commend this year’s recipients who are working diligently to provide quality care within their communities,” Chartis Center national leader Michael Topchik says. NOSORH assists in efforts to improve access to and the quality of health care for America’s 61 million rural citizens. n
Clark leads medical center
P
aul Clark, JD, is the new president and chief operating officer of Merrick Medical Center. He had been serving as interim president since last August’s departure of Julie Murray, who led the medical center for the previous four and a half years. According to Carol Friesen, former vice president of health system services for Bryan Health, “Paul has stepped into executive leadership in the way we knew he would from our experience working with him as a trustee of our hospital and foundation boards. “His understanding and commitment to Merrick Medical Center’s major initiatives and the community’s vision for the future of Central City make him the ideal person to lead
the organization on its amazing journey to a new replacement hospital and clinic.” Clark earned a bachelor’s at Faulkner University in Montgomery, Alabama, and a juris doctorate from the Cumberland School of Law at Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama. He’s lived in Central City since 2013, practicing law and serving as the city attorney for Central City, St. Paul and Palmer. Paul and Sarah Clark’s family includes two daughters, ages 3 and 2. n
Paul Clark
28 Spring 2019
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VOLUNTEERS & CUSTOMER CARE
Volunteering helps student prep for life
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ach year, the Bryan Health their rooms and just answered questions,” Volunteers and Customer Care says Jake. “Then later on, I served as Department trains and manages an admissions assistant — organizing more than 650 volunteers paperwork and stepping in to help where helping with tasks from admissions to needed with miscellaneous tasks.” patient escort to nutrition and dining. To serve at Bryan, volunteers need Many high-achieving students, like to be able to commit to at least one shift Jake Lim of Lincoln, also volunteer here. each week, which could be a challenge “I initially started volunteering in high for a grueling high school schedule. But school to get exposed to the medical Jake says it’s easy to make room for such field,” Jake says. “However, the experience a rewarding opportunity. helped shape my perspective and carry “I had a busy high school schedule,” me into where I am today.” he says. “For me, volunteering was the While Jake ultimately decided to turn one thing that was constant every week. his focus to mathematics and finance, he says his role as a volunteer gave him a glimpse at the bigger picture. Jake Lim, now a freshman at Harvard, “When you’re a student, credits his experiences as a youth you can be a bit isolated volunteer at Bryan with helping him from the rest of the world prepare for college and life beyond. because your parents and teachers help manage a lot of things,” he explains. “When volunteering in a nonschool environment like Bryan Health, I had a lot more responsibility and felt a deeper connection to the world around me.” Serving as a youth volunteer Bryan volunteers serve in a number of roles that support the staff by meeting the nonmedical needs of guests. This frees up the medical center staff to concentrate on patients’ medical needs. Youth volunteers have choices based on their availability and skill sets. “I helped people find
It gave me an opportunity to focus and devote my time to others.” Contributing to a positive experience According to volunteer coordinator Ann Bauer, youth volunteers are a vital part of their team. “Youth volunteers provide a positive first impression,” she points out. “Plus, they improve the overall patient and visitor experience.” The positive experience is not only felt by Bryan Health guests, but also by the volunteers themselves. Some of the personal benefits of volunteering include learning new skills and/or building their resume, meeting new people, scholarship opportunities and various discounts. Advice to youth volunteers Jake is now a freshman at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, studying applied mathematics, with a dream of working in finance. As a seasoned youth volunteer, he offers strong words of encouragement for those who come after him. “Step in and volunteer. No matter what your role is, you’re helping people and making a difference” he says with a smile. n To learn more about volunteer opportunities, contact Bryan Volunteers and Customer Care at 402-481-3032 or visit bryanhealth.org/volunteer. To find out how you can support the work of Bryan Health, please contact the Bryan Foundation at 402-481-8605.
Bryan Journeys 29
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BRYAN COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES
Farewell to Border, welcome Stovall Bryan College of Health Sciences said goodbye to a familiar face: Dean of Students Deb Border retired this winter after almost 25 years with the college. Alethea Stovall, PhD, succeeded her in February.
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eb (Hanneman) Border, MSN, retiring Dean of Students, says, “I’m a Lincoln native and love it here. I went to Lincoln High School, then graduated from Lincoln General Hospital’s nursing school in 1974. Lincoln General was a wonderful place to learn, with caring instructors and great opportunities. “My first nursing job was in pediatric intensive care at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. I’d always wanted to work in pediatrics, but in those days we lost about 50 percent of our young patients in the ICU, so this was very difficult emotionally,” she recalls. “Eventually, I returned to Lincoln and worked at the Regional Center in psychiatric nursing for five years. I loved it there, and this interest led to graduate school, and I completed Deb Border master’s degrees in both nursing and psychology. During that time, the Bryan School of Nursing was looking for help creating a course in psychiatric nursing. I jumped at the chance, and joined the faculty in 1979.” She says, “Psychiatric nursing is fascinating — I loved working with patients and families, and I very much enjoyed teaching students. It’s been a privilege to work as Dean of Students because nursing is one of the few fields where new graduates improve people’s lives every day, while making a good salary right out of school. “I have great memories of our students — the excellent practitioners they became, and those who returned to work with us as faculty members. It was also very rewarding to work with
faculty to transition from a School of Nursing into the College of Health Sciences.” The retiring dean concludes by noting, “Now I’m looking forward to spending leisure time with my family and finally having a few hobbies!”
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lethea Stovall, PhD, is the new Dean of Students. She says, “I grew up here in Lincoln and went to Lincoln High School. Afterward, I went to Buena Vista University in Storm Lake, Iowa, for my undergraduate work and earned a master’s in counseling at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. “Then I found my passion — helping students succeed in higher education. With that in mind, I took a PhD in Higher Education and Student Affairs Leadership at the University of Northern Colorado (UNC) in Greeley in 2017.” She adds, “I’ve worked with wonderful people in Nebraska and Colorado during my career and education, including as adjunct professor, director of Asian/Pacific American Student Alethea Stovall Services, and on the diversity and equity committee at UNC. “What I enjoyed most about these positions was collaborating with colleagues, exchanging ideas and creating affirming partnerships. “I’m very excited about becoming part of the Bryan community, getting to know our students, and partnering with faculty and staff to help our students succeed and thrive.” When not at work, Dr. Stovall and her family enjoy the outdoors, especially the mountains. “Coming back home to family and friends in Nebraska is wonderful,” she says. “This summer, we’re looking forward to craft weekends and family adventures.” n
30 Spring 2019
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ALUMNI NEWS
Welcome, newest alumni! Bryan College of Health Sciences awarded 57 diplomas Dec. 14 during commencement at Saint Paul United Methodist Church.
December 2018
Grads! Dr. Marcia Kube prepares to place a hood on Molle Barker, signifying completion of a Master of Science in Nursing.
Heather Schindler receives her diploma from Dr. Rich Lloyd.
The graduates get high fives from Bryan’s faculty. Bryan Journeys 31
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PUBLIC NOTICE
Discrimination is against the law
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ryan Medical Center complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Bryan Medical Center does not exclude people or treat them differently because of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.
If you have questions about the law, please contact our Corporate Compliance Officer. You can either call 402-481-8432, write to Bryan Medical Center, Attn: Patient Experience Department, 1600 South 48th Street, Lincoln, NE 68506 or email patientexperience@bryanhealth.org. Bryan Medical Center Provides free aids and services to people with disabilities to communicate effectively with us, such as: • Qualified sign language interpreters • Written information in large print, audio, accessible electronic formats or other formats Provides free language services to people whose primary language is not English, such as: • Qualified interpreters • Information written in other languages If you need these interpreter services, contact our Administrative Managers 24/7: 800-742-7844. You may also email a request for interpreter services: communicationassist@bryanhealth.org If you believe Bryan Medical Center has failed to provide these services or discriminated in another way on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex, you can file a grievance with: Patient Experience Specialist 2300 S. 16th Street, Lincoln, NE 68502 Phone 402-481-5761 – TTY 800-833-7352 – Fax 402-481-5711 patientexperience@bryanhealth.org You can file a grievance in person or by mail, fax, or email. If you need help filing a grievance, the Patient Experience Department is available to help you. Please see the contact information above. You can also file a civil rights complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights, electronically through the Office for Civil Rights Complaint Portal, available at https://ocrportal.hhs.gov/ocr/ portal/lobby.jsf, or by mail or phone at: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 200 Independence Avenue, SW Room 509F, HHH Building Washington, D.C. 20201 1-800-368-1019 -TTY 800-537-7697 Complaint forms are available at http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/office/file/index.html.
ATTENTION: If you speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-800-742-7844; TTY: 1-800-833-7352. ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-800-742-7844; TTY: 1-800-833-7352. CHÚ Ý: Nếu bạn nói Tiếng Việt, có các dịch vụ hỗ trợ ngôn ngữ miễn phí dành cho bạn. Gọi số 1-800-742-7844; TTY: 1-800-833-7352. 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請致電 1-800-742-7844; (TTY: 1-800-833-7352）。 م لحوظة: اذك ر ت تحدث ك نت إذا،ل ك ت تواف ر ال ل غوي ة ال م ساعدة خدمات ف إن ال ل غة ب ال مجان. ب رق م ات صلFa1-800-742-7844 (وال ب كم ال صم هات ف رق م: 1-800-833-7352).
1-800-742-7844 (TTY: 1-800-833-7352). ATTENTION : Si vous parlez français, des services d'aide linguistique vous sont proposés gratuitement. Appelez le 1-800-742-7844; (ATS: 1-800-833-7352). XIYYEEFFANNAA: Afaan dubbattu Oroomiffa, tajaajila gargaarsa afaanii, kanfaltiidhaan ala, ni argama. Bilbilaa 1-800-742-7844; (TTY 1-800-833-7352). ACHTUNG: Wenn Sie Deutsch sprechen, stehen Ihnen kostenlos sprachliche Hilfsdienstleistungen zur Verfügung. Rufnummer: 1-800-742-7844; TTY: 1-800-833-7352. 주의: 한국어를 사용하시는 경우, 언어 지원 서비스를 무료로 이용하실 수 있습니다. 1-800-742-7844; (TTY: 1-800-833-7352) 번으로 전화해 주십시오. ध्यान दिनह ु ोस ्: तपार्इंले नेपाली बोल्नह ु ु न्छ भने तपार्इंको ननम्तत भाषा सहायता सेवाहरू ननिःशल् ु ोस ् 1-800-742-7844; ु क रूपमा उपलब्ध छ । फोन गनह
(दिदिवार्इ: 1-800-833-7352) ВНИМАНИЕ: Если вы говорите на русском языке, то вам доступны бесплатные услуги перевода. Звоните 1-800-742-7844 (телетайп: 1-800-833-7352). ໂປດຊາບ: ຖ້າວ່າທ່ານເວົ້າພາສາລາວ,ການບໍລິການຊ່ວຍເຫຼືອດ້ານພາສາ, ໂດຍບໍ່ເສັຽຄ່າ, ແມ່ນມີພ້ອມໃຫ້ທ່ານ. ໂທຣ 1-800-742-7844 (TTY: 1-800-833-7352). ئ اگ اداری: قە سە ک وردی زمان ی ب ە ئەگە ر،ي ارمەت ی خزمەت گوزاريەک ان ی دەکەي ت ، زمان،بەردە س تە ت ۆ ب ۆ بەخ ۆڕاي ی. ب ە پەي وەن دی1- 800-742-7844 (TTY (1-800-833-7352 ب کە. ت وجە: می گ ف ت گو ف ار سی زب ان ب ە اگ ر،راي گان ب صورت زب ان ی ت سه یالت ک ن ید ب ا شد می ف راهم شما ب رای. ب ا1-800-742-7844 (TTY: 1-800-833-7352) ت ماس ب گ یري د. 注意事項：日本語を話される場合、無料の言語支援をご利用いただけます 1-800-742-7844; (TTY: 1-800-833-7352) まで、お電話にてご連絡ください
32 Spring 2019
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Home Run for Health with the Lincoln Saltdogs Presented by:
Friday, June 21 Haymarket Park Pregame Activities: 4:30-7 p.m. • More than 30 exhibitors with interactive health and safety activities • Meet and greet with Lincoln Saltdogs players • Bounce houses and play area • One lucky child will be invited to throw the first pitch
Baseball Game: 7:05 p.m. Lincoln Saltdogs vs. Texas Airhogs Fireworks Show: Following the game
Tickets available May 1 at:
saltdogs.com/bryanhomerun • General Admission Berm Seat - FREE • Reserved Seat - $6 Both ticket levels include admittance to the Home Run for Health pregame activities.
Got Achy Joints? Get Answers to Feel Better Saturday, April 6 9 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. 8:45-9 a.m. ........... Check in 9-9:45 a.m. ........... Bone Health & Fracture Prevention By Alesha Scott, DO, orthopedic surgeon. Bryan Trauma & Acute Care Surgery 9:45 - 10:30 a.m.... Let’s Talk Nutrition — How to Support Your Body’s Support System By Lauren Christensen, registered dietitian 10:30 - 10:45 a.m.. Break 10:45 - 11:30 a.m.. Prevention & Treatment of Osteoarthritis By Melvin Churchill, MD, Arthritis Center of Nebraska 11:30 a.m.- noon... Renewing Strength to Tired and Weary Bones Kristi Beyer, exercise specialist Noon - 12:45 p.m... Brunch/Q&A Cost: $25, includes free access to fitness center after the event Where: Bryan LifePointe Campus, 7501 S. 27th St. To register: Go online to bryanhealth.org/calendar or call 402-481-6300
Bryan Health Podcasts Listen to these and other free podcasts at bryanhealth.org/podcasts.
Opioid Alternatives: Find a Better Way to Manage Your Pain Kelly Zach, MD, explains the different types of pain, the best way for a person to talk with their doctor about the pain they are experiencing and how a person can balance the risk and benefit of opioid medications.
How to Stop the Shakes: Help for Parkinson’s & Essential Tremor Parkinson’s disease and Essential tremor affect both men and women equally. Neurosurgeon Benjamin Gelber, MD, Neurological and Spinal Surgery, will discuss deep brain stimulation, who is a good candidate for this procedure and how it can help.
Kidney Stones: Prevention, Symptoms & Treatment Leslie Spry, MD, Lincoln Nephrology & Hypertension, shares what causes kidney stones and how you can prevent and treat them.
CMS app explains Medicare coverage Wondering if Medicare covers your treatment or procedure? The U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ new “What’s Covered” app lets original Medicare patients and caregivers see if Medicare covers a medical item or service. Use the app to more easily get accurate Medicare coverage information anywhere you use your mobile device.
Bryan Journeys 33
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See Test Results View Family Health Records
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BryanHealth.org/MyChart
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