Vision 2020 - Progress Health

GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2020 •

Special to the Great Bend Tribune Sunday, February 2, 2020

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• GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2020

A big health-care footprint TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO

A nurse from the University of Kansas Health System at Great Bend takes the blood pressure of a Great Bend Women’s Expo attendee last September.

A study indicates that hospitals are in important part of local economies.

Hospitals make key economic impact in local communities

BY DALE HOGG dhogg@gbtribune.com

H

ospitals and health-care systems, like those in Barton County, are a powerful economic force in Kansas, a study released recently by the Department of Agricultural Economics at Kansas State University notes.

The report, entitled “The Importance of the Health Care Sector to the Kansas Economy,” was prepared by K-State’s Dr. John Leatherman. It states the health-care sector in Kansas generated $17.9 billion in income and $31.4 billion in sales last year, ranking it fifth among all economic sectors in the state.

“We are proud of the role we play in this community: health-care provider, employer, business driver, and cornerstone of community life,” said Jessie Mock, administrator for The University of Kansas Health System Great Bend Campus. They are currently determining the specific impacts and will share once that their information once finalized.

Hospitals were the biggest contributor in the

health sector, generating $8.4 billion in income and $16.4 billion in sales.

Kansas hospitals employ more than 97,000 of the 240,000 health service employees in the state.

The health care sector is the third largest aggregate employer in the state.

These are just a few of the findings of the report that details estimates of the “gross” impact of the health-care sector on economic activity in the State of Kansas. K-State researchers identify three primary ways health care influences local economic development: health care attracts and retains business, attracts and retains retirees, and creates local jobs.

“Today in Great Bend, we employ approximately 415 people, providing strong, stable jobs in Barton County,” Mock said. “In addition, we work to use local resources wherever possible. It takes a village to run a hospital and our clinics, including many community partners and vendors. Communities are as strong as the resources available to their residents.

We know providing quality health care makes our community stronger and we are proud of the role we continue to play.”

“After reviewing

Dr. John Leatherman’s report on the economic contribution of Barton County’s health-care system, I was pleased to see the results and delighted to be a part of that contribution,” said Clara Barton Hospital and Clinics President/ CEO Jim Blackwell.

According to the study, the health-care sector in Barton County accounted for an estimated 8.8% of the county’s total employment, or about 1,779 jobs in 2018. The findings also stated that the health-care sector in Barton County also accounted for more than $110,205,000 in total county income and about $43,934,000 in county retail sales.

“Having lived in central Kansas all my life, I understand the importance of each sector of our local economy, including farming, livestock, oil, and manufacturing, and after having worked 19 years at Clara Barton Hospital, I greatly understand and value the strength of the economic impact that comes from the healthcare sector as well,” said Blackwell. “We are extremely proud to play such an important role in our local economy, but more importantly,

we are proud to be able to provide a stellar care delivery model for our community, friends, and our families to utilize close to home.”

The bigger picture According to the study, in 2018, the Kansas economy generated about $378 billion in sales, the broadest measure

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sector.

The services sector (including health care) employed the largest number of workers at about 1 million jobs.

This was over five times more than the number of workers employed by the manufacturing sector.

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of economic activity.

Services (including health care) was the largest economic sector in terms of total sales, accounting for 37.9% of total sales for the state.

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IMPACT, from page 2

Hospitals help drive other economic development efforts Jobs are an essential part of the economic impact; however, funds also flow to businesses and throughout the economy as hospitals purchase goods and services. Hospitals generate nearly $4 billion in local retail sales in Kansas each year.

Additionally, the hospital sector generates more than $259 million in state sales tax.

These are critical funds that the state uses for important programs such as education and transportation.

“Hospitals and health services truly are an economic anchor in our state,” said Tom Bell, president and CEO of the Kansas Hospital Association. “This report documents the importance of the health-care sector to the Kansas economy. While the estimates of economic impact are substantial, they are only a partial accounting of the benefits health care in general, and community hospitals in particular, provide to the state.

Kansas community hospitals help stabilize the population base, invigorate their communities and contribute significantly to quality of life.”

Economic impact arises directly from the sales, wages, and employment generated by business activity. It also arises indirectly through the “ripple” effect of businesses purchasing goods and services from other local businesses and through health care workers spending wages and other income for household goods and services. These linkages tend to distribute the impact of an activity or event very broadly throughout the economy.

A patient undergoes physical therapy at Clara Barton Hospital in Hoisington. Hospitals are key economic development forces in the communities they serve, a K-State study indicates.

A big impact The total economic contribution of the health-care sector to the Kansas economy, also known as the multiplier effect, is equal to the sum of three components: the direct effect, the indirect effect, and

the induced effect.

According to Leatherman, Kansas hospitals employ 4.8% of all job holders in the state. The report calculated economic multipliers, or “ripple effects,” and estimated hospitals account for 88,143

TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO

additional jobs throughout all other businesses and industries in the state. In other words, for each new job in the hospital sector, another 0.91 jobs were created in other businesses and industries in Kansas. The hospital sector employment

had a total impact on state employment of approximately 185,153 jobs.

Since the total impact of the health-care sector expenditures is a multiple of the initial expenditures, the total effect is expressed as a multiplier effect, that is, the sum of the direct, indirect and induced effects.

Therefore, the total impact of the health-care sector on the Kansas economy is larger than the initial expenditures. For example, an output multiplier of 1.5 indicates that for every million dollars spent (direct expenditure) an additional $0.5 million is generated within the Kansas economy.

Similarly, an employment multiplier of 1.6 indicates that for each job created by direct expenditure, an additional 0.6 jobs are created or supported due to business (indirect) and household (induced) spending.

Furthermore, the entire health sector in Kansas employs about 240,000 people, or 12% of all job holders in the state. This puts Kansas ahead of the national average, which is 10% of job holders in the United States working in health-care services. The total employment impact of the health-services sector in Kansas is nearly 417,000 jobs, making it the third largest aggregate employer in the state.

This report confirms heath care is directly or closely related to more than 20% of all Kansas employment.

The study also found Kansas hospitals generate more than $7.1 billion in direct labor income to the Kansas economy each year. For every dollar of income generated in the hospital sector, another $0.60 was generated in other business and industry. As a result, the hospital sector had an estimated total impact on income throughout all businesses and industries of $11.4 billion.

A broader scope Although the connections between health-care services and local economic development are often overlooked, there are at least three important linkages to be recognized, Leatherman noted. A strong health-care system can (1) help attract and maintain business and industry growth, (2) attract and retain retirees, and (3) create jobs in the local area.

A vigorous and sustainable health-care system is essential not only for the health and welfare of community residents, but to enhance economic opportunity as well.

“While industry trends related to health care are generally positive, significant challenges remain for many communities,” he states.

“If a community wants to maintain the benefits associated with accessible and affordable health care, it must actively work to meet these challenges.”

Health-care industries, especially in rural counties, help to preserve the population base, invigorating the communities and school systems, he said. Similarly, many hospitals and nursing care facilities have active community outreach programs that enhance community services and the quality of life for community residents.

“A vigorous and sustainable health-care system is essential not only for the health and welfare of community residents, but to enhance economic opportunity as well,” he said. “Health-related sectors are among the fastest growing in economy. Given demographic trends, this growth is likely to continue.

The attraction and retention of new business and retirees also depends on access to adequate health-care services.”

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• GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2020

COUTESY PHOTO

Shown is the Ellinwood Country Living facility that provides home-plus and memory care.

Ellinwood Country Living facility offers compassionate care for those with dementia

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llinwood Country Living is a unique facility that provides home-plus and memory care, said Laura Suppes. “Our compassionate trained staff is trained to care for dementia residents,� she said.

ECL provides personalized and specialized services such as: schedules, meals, stimulating cognitive skills, safety features,

and a stress-free lifestyle and a high-quality of life for residents.

The Ellinwood Senior Living staff knows the importance of taking care of dementia residents, Suppes said. They are trained to recognize dementia symptoms adversely affecting the intellectual and social abilities of an individual’s life. “Common symptoms and

behavioral problems associated with dementia are identified and an individualized program is implemented,� she said. “The effective staff members are available to talk to friends or relatives who provide the support that equates to the highest level of care.�

Those with dementia must feel respected and valued for who

they are and their contributions, Suppes said. “To assist them in retaining their sense of identity and feelings of self-worth, our staff is flexible by taking the time to listen, engaging them in regular chats, showing affection, participating in activities together, and treating them with courtesy.�

Kindness and reassurance will cause them to feel safe

and respected, she said. “Our staff is trained to provide professional support, a variety of tools, interventions to achieve successful quality of life inclusive to peace and happiness.�

Staff has access to obtain educational information through Dr. Catherine Strecker, Catherine Strecker Educational Strategies and other sources.

Jesse Mock outlines The University of Kansas Health System progress in central Kansas

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At our residence your loved one has the freedom to live with choice in their care, while you can be secure that they are being cared for by compassionate and professional staff.

the health system is actively recruiting new healthcare providers and staff. “Most employers in this area are aware of the challenges of recruiting personnel in a low-unemployment environment,� Mock said. “We aren’t immune to this but we are adding healthsystem resources to help us recruit new providers.�

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does it improve care quality and safety for the patient?� “This is what is so exciting about working for the health system,� he added. “It is committed to its mission, vision and values. The goal is to care for our communities in the best manner possible to provide the right care in the right locations.�

Steps taken last year to reach a higher level of service included expanding Convenient Care Walk-in Clinic hours; they are now 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday.

New services added include: Telebehavioral Health, which provides

Community service In Great Bend, the health system looks beyond its doors to find new ways to support local and area residents who need a helping hand. “One example is our continued focus on the support of United Way of Central Kansas,� Mock noted. “We have a United Way employee program, as well as institutional support,�

Mock explained. “We also emphasize volunteerism for entities such as the Family Crisis Center

and Barton Community College. This includes serving on boards and/ or advisory councils, and specific events.�

Mock noted the health system continues to support the Golden Belt Home Health & Hospice Memories Matter Bereavement Camp, which has been available to children and their families for more than 20 years. Other community activities include the Veterans Day Breakfast and Zoo Boo participation.

“We want to be out and about and engaged in our communities,� the administrator said. “We want to do tangible things that enhance our neighbors’ lives. The health system is humbled and proud to be part of the Great Bend community.

We are excited about our future here.�

The University of Kansas Health System in Great Bend has three physical locations: Great Bend Campus hospital, 792-8833, and Medical Pavilion, 792-2151, both at 514 Cleveland; Family Medicine, 1309 Polk, 7925341; and St. Rose Medical Pavilion, 3515 Broadway, 792-2511.

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hen The University of Kansas Health System acquired medical facilities in Great Bend about 18 months ago, it was a “significant moment� in providing high-quality health care close to home, said Jesse Mock, local administrator. “Because we are now colleagues instead of competitors, we are making great strides in integrating our systems in Great Bend, Larned and Hays,� Mock said. “We have been doing a lot of work on systemintegration activities. “This includes working on our One Team Initiative to provide a seamless transition for patients receiving care, whether in our local communities, Topeka or Kansas City. We always look for ways to make life a little easier for patients and their families.�

For example, Mock commented, a single electronic medical records system will allow better service and more convenience. “In addition, we are working on a common platform in Human Resources, Finances and Supply Chain,� he noted. “All of this is underway to increase efficiency and lower costs, and also to benefit the patient.�

No matter what the topic, the health system starts the conversation with asking a few questions. “How will this affect patients?� Mock said. “And

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Educating the public, reducing the stigma and offering hope Mental health first aid offers early intervention and prevention

BY DALE HOGG dhogg@gbtribune.com

In a given year, one in five Americans will be diagnosed with some form of mental illness, said Kristian Pearson of the Great Bend-based Center for Counseling and Consultation. Furthermore, he doubts anyone will go through life not impacted by it in some way.

“It’s part of everyday life,” he said. All of us, at some point, will be angry, sad or depressed.

“Yet many are reluctant to seek help or simply don’t know where to turn for care,” he said. Recognizing mental health and substance use challenges can be difficult, which is why it’s so important for everyone to understand the warning signs and risk factors.

This prevalence has led to a new approach known as Mental Health First Aid, a program that teaches non-mental health professionals to recognizes the signs and intervene early.

Pearson teaches the practice in the Center’s four-county coverage area (Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford), as well as across the state.

Promoted by the National Council for Behavioral Health and around for a while, “it has been in this area for about six years,” he said. Funding from the Association of Mental Health Centers of Kansas helped pay for MHFA to be brought to the Sunflower State.

“It’s beginning to spread throughout

central Kansas he said.

Mental Health First Aid is an in-person training for anyone who wants to learn about mental illnesses and addictions, including risk factors and warning signs.

This eight-hour training teaches participants a five-step action plan to help a person in crisis connect with professional, peer, social and self-help care.

“It addresses mental health in more of a traditional first aid fashion,” Pearson said.

Much like treating a cut, bruise or abrasion, mental health issues are assessed and it determined if more help is needed.

“This is about prevention and early intervention,” he said. “You don’t have to be a mental health professional to do this.”

And, as with a physical injury that is serious and 911 called, it is the same with this.

If someone appears to be deeply troubled, such as being suicidal, more assistance can be summoned, he said.

More background According to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the Health Resources and Services

DALE HOGG Great Bend Tribune

Recognizing mental health and substance use challenges can be difficult, which is why it’s so important for everyone to understand the warning signs and risk factors.

Mental health first aid, as taught through the Center for Counseling and Consultation, helps with this.

Administration (operated by the NCBH), the concept is appropriate for a variety of professionals working in primary and behavioral healthcare integration settings. The training can help those who regularly engage with individuals who may experience mental health challenges and is most appropriate for audiences with no prior training or experience with mental health or substance use. Using scenarios and role playing, participants are given the opportunity to practice their new skills and

gain confidence in helping others who may be developing a mental health or substance use challenge, or those in distress.

Community behavioral health and health centers provide the training to community partners, frontline staff, volunteers, and other concerned citizens. Mental Health First Aid USA is operated by the National Council for Behavioral Health.

See HOPE, 6

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• GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2020

New Public Health Educator takes lessons outdoors

Tobacco-free parks and the vaping epidemic Another CDRR Grant objective is to make communities aware of the seriousness of tobacco use and e-cigarette use. Sigler has also been working on goals such as tobacco-free parks and playgrounds in Barton County, and she has been addressing the vaping epidemic in schools. Her role in each case starts with educating the public.

Active Transportation The third object Sigler has as the CDRR Grant coordinator to encourage

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and honey.

“As Public Health Educator I get to work through a grant called CDRR (Chronic Disease Risk Reduction),” Sigler said.

This grant has three main objectives to help improve public health.

One is to help communities create healthy eating habits easily, through farmers markets, community gardens, the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program and Senior Food Box Program.

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Since becoming Public Health Educator at the Barton County Health Department last July, Katelyn Sigler has kept busy, starting with the Great Bend Summer Street Stroll Farmers Market at the Barton County Courthouse.

This event is held every Thursday from 4-7 p.m. in the months of May through October. In 2019, Sigler notes, sponsors added special events on the third Thursday of every month, with help from the City of Great Bend. For example one of these evenings featured Ryan Fairchild. Thursdays evenings may also feature City Band concerts and free movies in the park.

“This was a win, win, win for our farmers market vendors, the food truck vendors, and a positive event for our community,” Sigler said. “We hope to make this event grow in the Summer of 2020 with more entertainment, more vendors and more activities.”

Fresh fruits and vegetables, honey, art and handmade crafts are the focus of the Summer Street Stroll Farmers Market and local vendors are encouraged to participate for the entire summer. This market also serves as the designated market for the Kansas Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program for Barton County, where seniors may redeem checks for locally grown fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs

“Many communities in Kansas have instituted outdoor tobacco-free ordinances at parks, zoos, athletic fields, playgrounds, trails and even city sidewalks and streets as a way to protect both children and the environment, and I hope to bring this to Barton County as well,” she said.

“This could help clean up our parks from cigarette butts and prevent adults and children from being exposed to secondhand smoke in a public area. There is no risk-free level of secondhand smoke exposure. The only way to fully protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of secondhand smoke is through 100% smoke-free environments.”

To address the vaping epidemic in schools, Sigler is working with Juvenile Services Director Marissa Woodmansee and DCCCA Community Support Specialist Jonny Lang to go to schools in Barton County to educate students on the dangers of vaping, from a health perspective and a legal perspective.

Vaping presents a health issue for adults as well. Last September, Kansas health officials confirmed the first death in the state associated with an outbreak of serious lung disease related to vaping or using e-cigarettes. That death was a Kansas resident over the age of 50.

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BY SUSAN THACKER sthacker@gbtribune.com

B - Veterans' Memorial

C - Barton County Historical Society

of all ages and abilities.

Complete streets make it east to cross the street, walk to shops and bicycle to work.

“On the Active Transportation side, Great Bend has been put on the Map for the TransAmerica Trail and because of that Central Kansas Partnership, Be Well Barton County is looking at ways to accommodate the needs of bicyclists coming through town,” Sigler said. “This will bring bicyclists from all over

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the world and we want to make sure we create the best experience for our tourists.

“For anyone wanting to participate or help with any of this work we are always looking for passionate people to join Central Kansas Partnership and Be Well Barton. To Join you can contact me at ksigler@ bartoncounty.org or call the Health Department at 7931902 or go to our website https://www.ckpartnership. org/ and join online.”

HOPE, from page 5 Mental health issues must be assessed and determined before treatment It teaches how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders.

The course introduces participants to risk factors and warning signs of mental health concerns, builds understanding of their impact and provides an overview of common treatments, SAMHSA-HRSA notes.

Through role-playing and simulations, it demonstrates how to assess a mental health crisis; select interventions; provide initial help; and connect people to professional, peer and social supports as well as self-help resources.

Mental Health First Aid encourages early detection and intervention by teaching participants about the signs and symptoms of specific illnesses like anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, eating disorders and addictions.

The program offers concrete tools and answers key questions like “What can I do?” and “Where can someone find help?”

Participants are introduced to local mental health resources, national organizations, support groups and online tools for mental health and

addiction treatment and support.

“Even when friends and family of someone who may be developing a mental illness recognize that something is amiss, they may not know how to intervene or direct the person to proper treatment,” Pearson said. “All too often, those in need of mental health services do not get them until it is too late.”

A big need According to SAMHSAHRSA, nearly 20% of people in the U.S. live in a rural area.

The challenges faced by rural residents are significantly different than those in urban areas.

Rural populations are often underserved and experience notable health and behavioral health disparities. Rural communities have a chronic shortage of behavioral health providers and limited access to services.

Mental Health First Aid can address these disparities by increasing mental health literacy (i.e., knowledge and beliefs about mental disorders that aid their recognition, management or prevention) among key community members – creating a

stronger, more prepared network of support for rural Americans.

Rural Mental Health First Aid is a way to build a community’s capacity to identify mental health and substance use issues early and for rural residents to gain confidence in intervening and referring a person to the resources that exist. Rural communities have a long history of being innovative and taking responsibility.

Mental Health First Aid is a way to increase the basic knowledge about mental health and substance use issues and to decrease the negative perceptions often associated with these issues.

Mental Health First Aid’s rural efforts address the unique characteristics of rural areas, recognize the community of rural Mental Health First Aid instructors, and enhance community capacity around behavioral health issues in rural areas.

“We want people to know how to get help and connect them with resources,” Pearson said.

There is another purpose, he said. “It’s about education, reducing the stigma of mental illness and increasing hope.”

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GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2020 •

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Clara Barton offering mental, behavioral health therapy SPECIAL TO THE TRIBUNE

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OISINGTON — Over the past year, Clara Barton Medical Clinic has been focused on treating the whole body through the introduction of mental and behavioral health therapy. Offering mental health services in the clinic setting has made it possible for patients to be treated for both their medical and mental health needs all in one convenient location.

Licensed Master Social Worker, Pam Middleton, has been with CBMC since the introduction of mental health services to the clinic, providing help to patients with anxiety, ADHD, school troubles, everyday life issues, stress, and other mental health needs. During her time at Clara Barton, Middleton has also been working toward her addiction counseling license in hopes to better serve those with substance abuse and other addictions. Clara Barton Medical Clinic is excited to announce that Middleton has officially attained her master’s addiction counselor license and will now be providing therapy for those struggling with addiction.

TRIBUNE FILE PHOTOS

Clara Barton Medical Clinic in Hoisington is offering mental health services in the clinic setting has made it possible for patients to be treated for both their medical and mental health needs all in one convenient location.

Middleton graduated with her bachelors in social work in 1996 from Fort Hays State University and received her masters from Kansas University in 2016. She has over 20 years of experience in the social work profession ranging from working with the Department for Children and Families to foster care case management, family preservation and in-home family services.

“Addiction has always been a part of my work over the years when I worked with families at DCF and did investigations,” said Middleton. “There is a huge

population that struggles with addiction and it ties in with abuse, neglect, domestic violence, trauma, and unhealthy coping skills.”

Having her addiction counselor license will allow Middleton to accommodate a wide variety of patients struggling with alcohol, drug, and other substance abuse and addictions. Signs of addiction can be identified by changes in social interaction, hiding/lying about drug or alcohol use, loss of control and constant thoughts of using, disregard for physical or mental harm that may come to themselves

or others, and neglecting obligations like work, family, or school.

Clara Barton Medical Clinic implemented mental health services in their clinic after identifying the need for mental health resources in the community.

Recent studies have shown a correlation between a variety of chronic illnesses and childhood experiences.

The research referred to as adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) demonstrates that childhood events can have lasting effects on an individual’s health, behavior and potential for success. More

negative experiences mean there is an increased chance for negative health and wellbeing outcomes.

“The need for mental healthcare and substance abuse counseling is widespread in our community and offering integrated services at our medical clinic is crucial,” said Middleton. “There are several older patients that are struggling with chronic illnesses like depression, anxiety, diabetes, congestive heart failure, COPD and it correlates with their adverse childhood experiences of abuse and neglect. It all connects to what we’re

seeing on both sides of healthcare.”

The providers at Clara Barton Medical Clinic work directly with Middleton to ensure that patients can receive quality integrated services. No physician referral is needed to make an appointment and patients do not have to be an established patient at Clara Barton Medical Clinic to receive mental therapy services.

Middleton provides mental health therapy for patients at all three Clara Barton Medical Clinic locations in Hoisington, Great Bend and Russell.

Addition of robotics has Clara Barton Hospital’s Surgical Team on ‘cutting edge’

BY SYDNEY RUGAN Special to the Tribune Clara Barton Hospital Foundation

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OISINGTON — Many of you may recall watching TV shows and movies during your childhood that featured a robot, such as “The Jetsons” or “Lost in Space.”

At the time, robots were considered to be more of a myth than reality, but today’s technological advancements have proved that robots were in fact a prediction of the future. Today, robots come in many shapes and sizes and can perform a variety of tasks. Although some robots are designed to act in place of humans, the various advanced robotic technologies being used in the medical field are designed to assist medical professionals with complex procedures, not replace them.

Clara Barton Hospital recently unveiled its newest technological gem, known as the da Vinci Xi Surgical Robotic System. The da Vinci Xi is a robotic tool used by surgeons nationwide for a variety of procedures. Clara Barton Hospital is excited to now provide patients with robotically assisted surgical procedures utilizing their brand new da Vinci Xi Surgical Robotic System, which is the very latest in surgical robotic technology.

“We are thrilled to bring this cutting-edge technology to our patients here in central Kansas. The Xi is a new surgical-assist model that is very user friendly for our general surgeons,” said Clara Barton Hospital President/ CEO, Jim Blackwell. “Having clinicians that embrace this advanced technology is an extreme benefit for our patients. Most importantly, the positive outcomes already experienced are now an option for you at a place you know and trust.“ Although it is called a robot, it cannot act on its own. Instead, the surgery is performed with unmatched

precision entirely by the surgeon who manipulates the machine’s multiple arms—all while viewing a high-definition, 3D image of the surgical site captured by a tiny camera on one of the device’s arms. The robot enables the surgeon to operate through a few small incisions, like traditional laparoscopic procedures, instead of a large open incision. The difference though, between a traditional laparoscopic procedure and a robotic procedure, is that instead of directly manipulating the instruments, the surgeon uses multiple robotic arms to translate hand movements into smaller, precise movements inside the patient’s body.

“When performing a

COURTESY PHOTO

Clara Barton Hospital surgical staff shows off their newest technological gem, the surgical robot. Clara Barton Hospital is excited to now provide patients with robotically-assisted surgical procedures utilizing their brand new da Vinci Xi Surgical Robotic System, which is the very latest in surgical robotic technology.

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ROBOTICS, from page 7 “When performing a traditional laparoscopic procedure, we use straight, non-articulating instruments to maneuver throughout the patient’s abdominal area.

Utilizing robotic technology essentially gives us wrists, providing 360° articulation on the ends of our tools, allowing us to make detailed, precise movements and cuts inside the body,� said Dr. PJ Stiles, general surgeon with Clara Barton Hospital. “They gave this tool the robot name to make it sound ‘flashy’ so to speak, but robotic surgery is really just a better, more advanced method of laparoscopy with wrists and tools that greatly enhance my capabilities during the procedure.�

Not only does the robot provide the surgeon with greatly enhanced capabilities, but the benefits for the patient are also significantly improved. “The robot allows me to manipulate my surgical instruments inside the body in a completely different way than during a traditional laparoscopic procedure,� said Dr. Jeremy Howes, general surgeon with Clara Barton Hospital. “Those enhancements not only allow me to perform more complex cases, but they also greatly reduce the torque on the patient’s abdominal wall, resulting in less pain and quicker recoveries.�

By utilizing robotic technology, patients will experience: • Less post-operative pain • Shorter hospital stays • Faster recoveries, resulting in a quicker return to normal activities • Less risk of infection • Less blood loss and fewer blood transfusions • Less scarring • Fewer wound complications In addition to these benefits, what may be the single most important benefit to robotic surgery is the decrease in the patient’s need for opioid prescriptions after surgery. “The opioid crisis is very real. We see it on a daily basis, even here in Hoisington, Kansas,â€? said Howes. “The benefits provided by the robotic arms lead to overall less pain for patients. With traditional laparoscopy it was necessary to prescribe pain medicines for every patient. Now, the majority of our patients aren’t taking any at all.â€?

Opioid addiction and the rate of drug overdose has rapidly increased over the past decade. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, between 1999 and 2017, more than 700,000 people have died from a drug overdose. On average, over 130 people in the U.S. alone die every day from an opioid overdose. “Opioid-free surgery is very achievable, but only if the surgeries are being done with the da Vinci robot,� said Howes. “After a robotically-assisted procedure, it is always our goal to try to go opioid-free, but there are some people who are going to require some, as everyone responds differently to pain. But overall, the number of opioids prescribed after a robotic surgery, verses a laparoscopic or open procedure, is significantly less.�

Clara Barton Hospital is the only healthcare facility offering this advanced robotic technology within a 50-mile radius of Hoisington and is the only critical access hospital in the state of Kansas using the da Vinci Xi System. Because of this investment, Clara Barton Hospital is now able to perform more complex procedures that patients previously had to travel a great distance to receive. “The robot allows us even more ability to provide the very best care for our patients close to home,� said Stiles. “Patients now have the option of having their procedure done with the latest technology without having to travel. Our rural Kansas patients deserve access to the best operations available, and we are proud to be able to deliver that standard of care.� “It is remarkable to watch great things transpire when you invest in your medical staff,� said Blackwell. “By providing in this cutting-edge technology, our clinicians are able to translate their gifted talents into their very own work of art, directly benefitting our patients by providing them with improved outcomes and outstanding care.�

Stepping Out Vision to promote healthy lifestyles brings community road race to life

BY DANIEL KIEWEL dkiewel@gbtribune.com

Five years ago, Barton County Young Professionals set out to find an avenue to promote healthy lifestyles in Barton County.

The result of that pursuit, the Flatlander Half Marathon & YP5K, held each year in October downtown, is now entering it’s sixth year as Barton County’s only half marathon (13.1-mile) running race.

According to Brandon Steinert, one of the organizers of the annual event since its inception in 2015, the race began simply as an effort to address a pressing need in the county. “A report at the time indicated Barton County was one of the least healthy counties in the state,� Steinert said. “(The group wanted to promote) awareness and understanding of health and fitness and how to build a lifestyle around those priorities.�

When the group decided on a road race to meet these goals, they decided to pursue a half marathon as one of the distances because Great Bend had just lost it’s only race of that distance, and the group felt it could be a staple event for the community.

Part of this, said organizing committee member Sandy McMullen, who is active in the local running community, is having a local race accessible to everyone, regardless of fitness level. “Local families can be more involved. It’s hard for families to travel with kids to go to different running events,� she said. “It’s good if you’re just trying to get healthy, which I think all of us are.� “It’s really good for families to come out and either run with their parents or kids, or be there to be able to cheer them on,� she added.

But building a signature road race event comes with several inherent challenges. One of the main ones, especially in a community the size of Great Bend, is creating a quality 13.1mile course that both appeals to participants of the race and meets safety standards set by law enforcement.

After beginning at Veterans’ Memorial Park in 2015, the event was moved downtown, and the half-marathon course re-routed, in part to accommodate safety concerns local law enforcement had about the course crossing 10th St. to get to the bike path south of Great Bend. The half marathon now starts at approximately Ninth Street and Kansas Avenue to meet this need, with the 5K starting and ending on Forest Ave. west of the courthouse.

Now the courses are certified

by USA Track & Field, which is a significant draw to participants seeking to run the race to qualify for other events.

This is an important step, because it adds to the professional nature of the event, and allows it to compete with larger, more established events. “We really wanted this to be a race on par with expectations runners might have from other

COURTESY PHOTO BCYP PUBLIC RELATIONS TEAM

Volunteers have fun while manning an aid station in Brit Spaugh Park along the Flatlander Half Marathon Course during last October’s race.

high level and long-established races like Prairie Fire (in Wichita) or the Eisenhower Marathon (in Abilene),� Steinert said.

Certifying the course is only part of the effort to meet this goal.

Along with bringing in an experienced professional timing company, Timer Guys out of Wichita, Steinert said, the group has sought to improve each year the race day amenities that often help draw participants to road races, such as improving gift bags, T-shirts, and course markings.

But the logistics of putting on an event like this can be a challenge, for a race that now draws 80-100 runners and walkers a year across what is now three separate distances - 5K, 10K (6.2 miles), and half marathon. “It’s also just a challenge to orchestrate so many aspects of an event, like having portapotties delivered to certain spots, budgeting for T-shirts and everything when we don’t know for sure if we’ll have a lot of runners or an off year, etc.� “We meet monthly for probably seven or eight months prior to the race just to make sure everything is coming together and on schedule,�

Steinert said.

With all the challenges inherent in the race, he said broad community support of the event has been crucial to it’s continued success.

The city works with us each year to open up bathrooms at the parks, close off Forest Avenue for our finish line and when feasible provide some officers for safety at some of the major highway crossings,� he said. “Our sponsors are absolutely amazing as well.�

But, he said, the effort which goes into putting on the race is worth it to see the growth both in the race itself, and the participants that come back to it each year. “We had a few stories of people who ran the 5K and then the following year or a couple years later made it a point to train for the half (marathon),�

Steinert said. “That’s what it’s all about – improvement. We want people to be taking care of themselves for their own sake, and for the sake of their loved

COURTESY PHOTO BCYP PUBLIC RELATIONS TEAM

Participants of all ages traversed the courses of the Flatlander Half Marathon and YP5K last October.

ones and improving the quality of the time they have with them.�

The success of the event has also allowed the group meet it’s initial goals in other ways, as well. “We decided the money (proceeds from the race) should be used...to improve infrastructure in the area that supports healthy and fit lifestyles,� he said.

So far, proceeds have helped put bike racks in communities across the county, including Ellinwood, Claflin, Hoisington and Great Bend, and have been used to make repairs to the shade structure at the Tot Spot playground at Brit Spaugh Park. “I love running and I love our community,� McMullen said. “I love being able to take the funds to better our community’s health and wellness.�

The next goal is to use some of the funds to help promote a bike share program in the future, a project driven by Be Well Barton County, who Steinert said BCYP will be transferring administration of the race to starting in 2020.

Even with that transition, though, he still feels like the race has room to grow, “I’d like to see a few hundred people lined up at that start line, with a bunch of the participants local. I would like to see us add a full marathon to the menu of distances available and certify that course so it would be a qualifier for Boston,� he said. “(We want to) show off our community to folks from out of town and provide a very professional-level event to represent the community well.�

But the long-term success of the race he said comes down to meeting it’s initial goal promoting healthy lifestyles in the lives of it’s participants, and of the community. “Our main goal is to provide this event for people to test themselves and improve their fitness, whatever that might look like,� he said.

McMullen agreed, adding it’s important for other community members to get involved, as well, even if they are not participating in the race. “We would like to get more people involved along the route, like families in the residential areas,� she said. “Just encourage the runners and...make it a bigger community event.� “I’m proud to be part of something that I see as having a big impact on Barton County from multiple angles,� he said. “It gives people something to work for. It builds awareness.

It raises money to make real improvements to the community. It gives businesses a chance to reach our runners with their message.�

A lot of time, effort and energy from a of different individuals and groups has gone into building a signature community event. “It’s been an honor to work alongside folks with similar approaches to health in their own lives, and they have big hearts for the health of others in our community. We all kind of do an equal part in getting this race put together each year,�

Steinert said.

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Stepping Up filling a dire need Staying strong Program aims to keep people with mental illnesses out of jails

BY DALE HOGG dhogg@gbtribune.com

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ounties book an estimated 2 million people with serious mental illnesses, most of whom are also addicted to drugs or alcohol, into jail each year. The jails spend more on these adults than on other inmates, taking a massive human and financial toll.

Hoping to help stem this tide, the Barton County Commission last October approved a resolution supporting Stepping Up Initiative.

The resolution joins Barton County to the program with a common goal of reducing the number of people with mental illnesses behind bars.

Five months into the program, it is too soon to determine what impact it has had, said Barton County Community Corrections Director Amy Boxberger. Her office is part of a coalition of criminal justice, mental health, substance use treatment, and other agencies tackling this problem.

“We are still in the data collection phase,” she said. “We have a request to obtain the data from the jail to start analyzing the last four years.”

By spring, she hopes to have a clearer picture.

The beginning “It becomes a revolving door,” said Center for Counseling and Consultation Executive Director Julie Kramp. She, Rosewood Services Inc. Executive Director Tammy Hammond and other concerned partners have discussed this issue for some time.

“Everyone was incredibly committed to making things better,” Kramp said. “We were just not sure how to make that happen.”

Then, they came across the Stepping Up Initiative, a joint effort of the Council of State Governments Justice Center, the National Association of Counties and the American Psychiatric Association This is why Kramp went before the commission back in October.

“The collaboration (at the local level) needs a broader oversight.”

Barton County Commission Chairwoman Jennifer Schartz attended the Kansas Association of Counties convention in November in Wichita and attended a presentation on this program. She said Douglas County helped pilot Stepping Up and has seen great success in the past three years.

That county now has a separate facility to care for those with mental illnesses to keep them from being incarcerated.

This may not be on Barton County’s horizon, but “it bodes well for us,” Schartz said.

What is the need?

The numbers are sobering.

Of those with serious mental illnesses admitted to jails across the nation, almost three-quarters of these adults also have drug and alcohol use problems, she said.

Kramp said those with mental illnesses are incarcerated at rate that is three to six times higher than the rest of the population. They also stay longer, have a higher risk of recidivism and cost two to three times more to keep behind bars.

Although counties have made tremendous efforts, they are often thwarted by significant obstacles, including operating with minimal resources and needing better coordination between the myriad agencies involved.

“Without change, large numbers of people with mental illnesses will continue to cycle through the criminal justice system, often resulting in tragic outcomes for these individuals and their families, missed opportunities for connections to treatment, inefficient use of funding, and a failure to improve public safety,” Kramp said.

The idea is to help lessen this burden safely, she said. Stepping Up will help identify those in need, determine what programs and services are available, measure

outcomes and track progress.

“Barton County is not alone in this problem,” Schartz said. In addition to the human toll, the cost to taxpayers is also great.

This is why it is easy for the county to get behind this program, she said.

In addition, “we don’t have to reinvent the wheel,” Schartz said. All they have to do is tailor Stepping Up to meet local needs.

Program background Recognizing the critical role local and state officials play in supporting systems change, NACo, the APA and the Justice Center launched the initiative in May 2015. It is a national movement to provide counties with the tools they need to develop data-driven strategies that can lead to measurable results.

With support from public and private entities, the initiative builds on the many innovative and proven practices being implemented across the country, according to information from the Stepping Up website. “Stepping Up has made much progress in its first four years,” said NACo President Roy Charles Brooks. “Helping counties build on our accurate data collection and other efforts will move the needle even further.”

Stepping Up counties will receive technical assistance and resources to improve their mental health screening and assessment processes, and strengthen their data collection and tracking so that they can create a system-wide impact. “Understanding the full scope of this problem is essential to help communities develop a comprehensive plan to confront this crisis,” said Dr. Altha Stewart, president of the APA. “Stepping Up is committed to providing counties with the tools that they need to make a real reduction in the number of people with mental illnesses who are currently involved in the criminal justice system,” Stewart said. “We need to ensure that people with mental illness are getting treatment.”

and healthy Area seniors find focus on flexibility leading to high quality of life

BY VERONICA COONS vcoons@gbtribune.com

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ottonwood Extension’s Donna Krug looks forward to the start of new Stay Strong Stay Healthy classes because she knows her students are experiencing results that are changing their lives for the better.

She’s been teaching the research-backed classes for the past six years, and in that time has helped hundreds of students improve their overall strength, flexibility and balance, all of which provide a foundation for enjoying everyday activities as we age.

“The classes are promoted for older adults, some into their 90’s, but some of my students area as young as their 50’s,” Krug said.

As the local population ages, the popularity of classes designed with the needs of older students in mind has grown, and Krug has seen her class sizes expand from a handful early on to two back-to-back classes with 40 students each starting in January. The slow movements are easy for her students to incorporate into their daily lives, she said. Students like the comradity, the fellowship, and the encouragement of other class members, and they find it motivating.

Unlike classes that focus on building cardiovascular stamina, students in the Stay Strong Stay Healthy classes learn its possible to build strength and flexibility without increasing heart rate and risking bouts of

dizziness. And, the moves can be easily modified to take into consideration temporary or permanent limitations.

Krug herself benefitted from modifications recently during her recovery from breaking her arm during a bicycle ride. Leading the class was a good experience for her and for her students.

She gained the support she needed, and they were able to witness her progress over the eight-week period.

Kansas State University Extension administers the classes, and only certified agents are approved to lead the class. Krug’s classes are held at the Great Bend Recreation Commission Activity Center. This works out well because the exercise equipment and free weights are available, and other classes offered there, like yoga and Tai Chi, are complementary to Stay Strong, Stay Healthy, Krug said.

“At first I was worried we would be in competition, but it turns out we have many students in common,” she said.

At the start of each class, Krug makes a comprehensive assessment of each students abilities, and again at the end of the eight-week session.

Gathering evidence like this is helpful not only for programming for Krug, but also allows students to compare and value their progress.

“Sometimes, there is no change, but this is a good thing for many of my aging students, who are happy to hold the effects of getting older at bay,” she said.

Maybe it’s more than just the Winter Blues?

Did you know mental health services can include support in the community?

The Center can provide help where you live, work and go to school.

We can work with your counselor to see if you qualify. Ask your provider about how you can receive case management services.

5815 Broadway, Great Bend, KS 67530 Toll Free: 800-875-2544 Website: www.thecentergb.org All Major Insurances Accepted Sliding Fee Schedule Available

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• GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2020

Beugelsdijk is offering a new cure for an increasingly common ‘pain in the neck’ for lasting change to occur, Beuglesdijk recommends his patients implement some changes in the way they work and spend their leisure hours as they undergo treatment.

Without change, the desired results can take longer to achieve.

Desk posture is a very common daily contributor to tech neck. Raising the height of the monitor, as well as moving the keyboard and mouse closer can help. Even better, switch to a standing desk, for at least part of the day.

At home and on the go, making a conscious effort to hold cell phones and iPads up higher is a good habit to get into. Crafting and reading books are two other activities where posture counts.

Sometimes people tense while driving and their head comes forward. This too can be a factor in curvature loss. Finding a more relaxed driving posture is what Beugelsdijk recommends.

Raising the height or position of the seat and steering wheel can help achieve this.

BY VERONICA COONS vcoons@gbtribune.com

T

echnology can be a real pain in the neck.

Dr. Sam Beuglesdijk, D.C., estimates about 90 percent of the population is experiencing some degree of curvature loss from forward head posture resulting from the use of digital technology.

The term “tech neck� describes the condition, and its symptoms include aching pain between the shoulders and neck that is not relieved from stretching, similar pain on one side of your body and frequent tension headaches, migraine headaches, temporomandibular joints (TMJ) and muscle spasms in the neck.

New device offers hope To counteract the symptoms of tech neck and help patients find lasting results, he introduced the iTrack chair to his practice at the beginning of the year. The iTrac chair was designed by Dr. Jarrod Nichols of Nichols Chiropractic in Manhattan, where Beugelsdijk practiced before coming to Great Bend. It is an FDA approved device, having been certified two to three years ago.

Different from traditional traction devices that provide relief from compression, the iTrac chair helps to stretch the soft tissue muscles around the neck that have shorted over time from repeated looking down posture. Over time, it helps to remodel and reshape the bony structure there also. Already, some of his patients are beginning to experience relief.

To get started, Beugledijk orders a neck X-ray to

evaluate for curve loss and forward head posture. In the beginning, treatment is usually prescribed twice a week, and continues from several weeks to around three months, depending on the extent of curvature loss. Some patients may have a reverse curve in their neck, and this will take longer to correct than those with just a mild amount of curve loss.

Typically, at the 12 visit mark, Beuglesdijk reevaluates patients to see what progress has been made. Those with mild symptoms may be ready to move into maintenance at that point, while others may need to continue for a month or more. “When we’re working to correct curve alignment, it’s the same idea as wearing braces,� he explained. “Once the teeth are aligned, a retainer is worn to maintain the alignment so it doesn’t go back to where it was before.�

Maintenance with the iTrac chair is typically a once-a-month type of treatment.

Whiplash sufferers strong candidates Those who have experienced whiplash are also strong candidates for the treatment, Beuglesdijk said. “Whiplash tends to overstretch the neck, and over time, curve loss starts to settle in,� he said.

People who have had whiplash before are typically good candidates because they have lots of curves.

COURTESY PHOTO

Dr. Sam Beuglesdijk, D.C., demonstrates how the iTrac works with staff member Shaley at his Great Bend practice. The chair is designed to stretch the soft tissue muscles in the neck that shorten due to ‘looking down’ posture common when using digital devices like smartphones and tablet computers. Over time, the neck loses curvature and results in painful symptoms of “tech neck.�

They might have an S shaped curve in their neck. “It’s a good option for those who have been in a car accident recently to

begin work right away, as well as those who have been struggling, and they’ve had a history of whiplash injury.�

Lifestyle changes recommended While symptomatic changes can be experienced in as little as a couple of days,

Not for everyone The iTrac chair isn’t for every patient, Beuglesdijk said. It won’t take away degeneration that has already occurred, but patients with degenerative joint or disk disease may still experience symptomatic relief from opening up and stretching their necks.

Those with spinal stenosis would not be a good candidate, nor those suffering from inflammatory or rheumatoid arthritis.

Pregnant women, as well, are not good candidates.

These patients might not tolerate the treatment, so they wouldn’t want to do it for that reason, Beuglesdijk said.

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