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HEA L T HNEWS|EV ENT S|F EA T UREST ORI ES|UPDA T ES|APUBL I CA T I ONOFHUNTREGI ONA LHEA L T HCA REF OUNDA T I ON
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FALL 2013 | VOL. 6, NO. 1
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EDITORIAL
Alicia Wittkopf - Executive Editor Chelbie Birdwell - Editor Lisa Hill - Contributor Melva Geyer - Contributor
I chose Hunt Regional Survivor Sharon Sanders shares her battle against breast cancer and reveals why she chose Hunt Regional Medical Center for the fight.
WHAT’S THE STORY? Welcome to the new look of healthbeat! Have you got a story or feedback for the team? REACH US AT cbirdwell@huntregional.org
STAFF HMHD Board Chair - Ron Wensel HRH Foundation Chair - Roselyn Lane HRH CEO - Richard Carter HRH Foundation Director - Alicia Wittkopf
DISTRIBUTION For queries regarding distribution please contact: 903.408.1064
ONLINE Follow us at: www.huntregional.org www.facebook.com/huntregional www.twitter.com/hunt_regional
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4 P 4 VASCULAR HEALTH Hunt Regional Medical Center’s Vascular Center is in the spotlight as Leslie Killgore shares her vein treatment story.
PLUS DON’T MISS ALL THIS
11 P11 NAPBC-ACCREDITED Hunt Regional Medical Center receives National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) designation.
14 P14 DELIVERING A MIRACLE Cody and Gwen Wacasey experience patient care in a level 3 NICU as they welcome their son, Zachariah.
P11 A Legacy of Hope: HRH Foundation Dedication P18 What’s in a Number? Breaking down the NICU P19 Spotlight on Health: The importance of family history P22 Upcoming Events: What not to miss this fall P23 Director’s Notes: Foundation updates from Alicia Wittkopf P24 Hunt Regional Welcomes: Meet our newest physicians
WELCOME MESSAGE FROMTHE CEO
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n 1992, women and their physicians testified before the United States Congress, pleading their case for better healthcare. They spoke of any number of problems with mammography, including improperly trained and even untrained personnel, old and outdated machines and failure on the part of medical staff to communicate test results with the patients. Today, we stand united as a country in support of women’s health, and wellness in general. A far cry from the horror stories surrounding mammograms of years past, women in America now have access to the latest technology the world has to offer. In Hunt County, they even have the ability to receive digital screening at their workplace, church and
other locations thanks to the Tubby Adkisson Mobile Mammography Coach. While it is clear that we are moving in the right direction, being self-vigilant is just as important for women today as it was twenty years ago. It is vital that we encourage and even challenge our wives, mothers, sisters, grandmothers, aunts, coworkers and friends to be advocates for their own care; to be advocates for their own lives. As big changes to the face of healthcare await us in the next year, let us not waiver in fear of the unknown. Instead, let us continue to evolve, becoming proactive agents of change and champions
for our own health.
Richard Carter Chief Executive Officer
healthbeat: the pulse of health in northeast texas
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welcome
ublished three times a year by Hunt Regional Healthcare Foundation in partnership with Hunt Regional Healthcare, healthbeat is a publication for friends and supporters of the Foundation. The goal of the publication is to increase awareness of healthcare advances, opportunities and challenges in the area. Staff members of the strategic marketing & communications department are responsible for the production of healthbeat. All material in this publication is the property of the publisher and is not intended for purposes of medical diagnosis or prescription. Please discuss your health with your doctor if you are considering a medical treatment, therapy or procedure. Stories may not be reprinted or copied without written permission from the publisher. Some photos may include models and may not represent actual patients or situations. Unless otherwise noted, the physicians featured in healthbeat have been granted staff privileges at one or both Hunt Regional Healthcare hospitals but may not be employees or agents of the hospitals or the hospital district. Reader letters, suggestions and questions are welcome. Please call 903.408.1064 or write Editor, Office of Strategic Marketing & Communications, Hunt Regional Medical Center, P.O. Drawer 1059, Greenville, Texas 75403-1059. If you receive multiple copies of healthbeat, need to change your mailing address, or wish to be removed from our mailing list, please write to the address above and enclose a copy of the mailing label from your publication. This publication is neither printed nor distributed at taxpayer expense.
November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month. Deaths from Alzheimer’s disease increased 68 percent between 2000 and 2010, while deaths from other major diseases decreased.This devastating disease is the 6th leading cause of death in the United States. It is the only cause of death among the top 10 in America without a way to prevent it, cure it or even slow its progression.Visit alz.org to learn more about the fight against Alzheimer’s.
SOURCE: ALZ.ORG
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LESLIE KILLGORE SHARES HOWVEIN TREATMENT GAVE HER A NEW LEASE ON LIFE
I chose Hunt Regional TO GET MY STRIDE BACK BY LISA HILL
feature Like many busy women, Leslie Killgore had put her own needs aside for too long. Juggling a career and family, Leslie struggled with varicose veins for years, living with the pain and seeing no cure on the horizon. But the horizon was closer than she thought, and with one ad, her future suddenly changed.
What’s in a vein?
For many people, spider veins are simply a mild, cosmetic concern. Focusing on the appearance of the legs, many fail to realize the chronic pain that accompanies the condition. “They had become very painful,” said Leslie. Tired of living with the discomfort, Leslie began to feel a glimmer of hope after discovering the Hunt Regional Vascular Clinic in the summer of 2013. “I noticed an ad for a lunch and learn for people suffering with painful varicose veins at Hunt Regional Medical Center. It was an informative session and the procedure sounded like the answer to my problem,” she said. The lunch and learn turned out to be just the push she needed; Leslie left the meeting and went straight to the clinic to make an appointment.
Spider veins. Rope veins. Varicose veins. The name often takes different forms, but the impact remains the same. Often causing embarrassment and discomfort, varicose veins are “It had gotten to the point usually attributed to a bad luck The Hunt Regional Vascular Clinic that I no longer liked to wear of the genetic draw—an unsightly first opened in early 2013, when problem that seems to have no dresses or shorts” physicians saw a growing patient need easy solution. for vein treatment therapy. LESLIE KILGORE “For many years I’ve had large, According to director of the bulging varicose veins in both clinic, Kamala Fields, FNP-C, more of my legs,” said Leslie Killgore, than 80 million Americans suffer from a member of the Greenville vein disease, a medical condition that community and an employee of can lead to further health problems. Active Wealth Management in Greenville. “Vein disease includes spider veins, large ropey “It had gotten to the point that I no longer liked to varicose veins or venous leg ulcers,” said Fields. wear dresses or shorts,” she said. Varicose veins are enlarged veins that often appear Varicose veins are veins that have become enlarged ropey and look blue or red. These enlarged veins can and twisted in form. Although they most commonly also hide in plain sight, occuring deeper under the skin affect the legs and feet due to the pressure of standing where they are not easily seen. and walking, varicose veins can occur elsewhere on the People who suffer from this condition often body.
Fulfilling a need
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feature have a family history of varicose veins. In fact, location for the best possible results. Patients more than 80 percent of the time, varicose even have the option of vein removal if other veins are genetic and are caused by unhealthy treatments do not achieve the desired results. valves inside the veins. When these valves fail or leak, the blood Choosing action falls backward through the poorly functioning valve. Gravity then causes the blood to gather in the veins and makes them look enlarged, Patients impacted often include pregnant twisted or full and bulging. women and those with occupations that require The vein clinic uses an advanced technology long periods of standing, such as nurses and known as endovenous laser treatment teachers. Although 45 percent (EVLT) which is a of men suffer from vein disease, minimally invasive laser Fields notes that women remain “Most patients tolerate treatment requiring no more widely affected by the the procedure very well hospitalization. disease, in part due to their tendency to delay treatment. Performed by and are able to return to Kenneth Saland, M.D., Leslie Killgore’s decision to normal activities almost interventional cardiologist seek treatment not only changed with Cardiology and that trend, it also changed her immediately.” Interventional Vascular quality of life. KAMALA FIELDS, FNP-C Associates, EVLT involves “I am very glad I made the no complicated surgery decision to have my varicose and has the added benefit of being covered by veins treated before they got worse and started most health insurances and Medicare. causing more health problems,” reflects Killgore. The quick procedure provides a “Kamala and the staff at the vein clinic straightforward option for patients experiencing at Hunt Regional Medical Center were so vein problems. knowledgeable about vein problems. I have been “The entire procedure takes about an hour very pleased with my treatment,” she said. and there is minimal discomfort,” states Fields. “Most patients tolerate the procedure very well and are able to return to normal activities WANT TO KNOW MORE? almost immediately,” Fields said. EMAIL: kfields@huntregional.org For visible varicose veins, Dr. Saland often CALL: 903.408.5770 uses ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy. The WEB: 903.408.5770 ultrasound provides a live view of the veins, ensuring the physician is treating the exact
The heart of the matter The vascular system is made up of the vessels that carry our blood. Arteries carry oxygenrich blood away from the heart.Veins carry oxygen-poor blood back to your heart. When a patient is in need of bypass surgery, abnormal veins are not useful to a heart surgeon. Any veins that would need vein treatment are already diseased and could not be used for heart bypass surgery and other options would be used.
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VEINS
AND HOWTHEY OPERATE
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he veins in our body are designed to carry the blood back to the heart where it can be sent to the lungs and then back out to our body. To prevent the blood from flowing backwards, there are valves that keep the blood going in the right direction. Sometimes those valves weaken or don’t work correctly and the blood does back up. When that happens, the blood can collect and the veins become congested and clogged. The result is varicose veins. Most of the time varicose veins show up in the legs and appear dark purple and swollen. However, varicose veins can show up in other places. For example, hemorrhoids are also a varicose vein. The National Women’s Health Information Center (NWHIC) estimates that 50 percent of all women are affected by varicose veins. Men have a much lower incidence. Though the exact cause of varicose veins isn’t known, heredity and hormones are suspected. Women undergo more hormonal changes than men and more often because of pregnancy, birth control and menopause. Also during pregnancy, there is an increase in the amount of blood in the body that can cause the veins to enlarge. Other factors according to NWHIC include aging, obesity, leg injury and long hours of standing
on a job or otherwise. Varicose veins usually appear in the legs because the veins there have the toughest job getting the blood back to the heart because of the distance and gravity. Varicose veins often do not require treatment though many people treat them for cosmetic purposes. Treatments, according to the American Academy of Dermatologists and the American College of Phlebology include: • sclerotherapy or injection of the vein to cause the vein to collapse and be absorbed by the body • ligation or a tying off of the vein • stripping where a long segment of vein is removed • ambulatory phlebectomy in which smaller varicose veins are removed through a series of tiny skin punctures • laser treatment which is especially effective for smaller veins sometimes called spider veins • endovenous techniques which use radiofrequency or laser to collapse the vein A plastic surgeon is often involved in performing these procedures, though other doctors can perform some of them as well. Varicose veins can worsen over time and if the situation becomes severe can have complications such as deep vein
thrombosis if the leg is injured. That can have other complications, even deadly ones such as pulmonary embolism. There are things you can do to try to prevent varicose veins in the first place. The NWHIC suggests exercising regularly to improve your leg strength and your cardiovascular system. Concerned patients should watch their weight and lose weight if needed. In addition, try to avoid crossing your legs when sitting and elevate them while resting. Do not stand in one place for long periods of time. If you have to, shift your weight from one leg to the other on a regular basis. Another helpful tip may be to wear elastic support stockings but avoid constricting clothes at your waist, groin or legs. For more information about vascular health, visit www.nhlbi.nih. gov/.
How does it work: QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Q
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:Where does the blood go after the veins are treated? : Your body has thousands of veins to help return blood to the heart. Blood flow in varicose veins is sluggish & abnormal. Once the unhealthy varicose veins are treated, blood will be re-routed into healthier veins & blood flow will improve.
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The National Women’s Health Information Center estimates that 50 percent of all women are affected by varicose veins. SOURCE: NWHI
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SHARON SANDERS REFLECTS ON HER JOURNEY WITH THE LOU AND JACK FINNEY CANCER CENTER
I chose Hunt Regional TO FIGHT IN MY CORNER BY CHELBIE BIRDWELL
feature A crusader for women’s health, Sharon Sanders has always been vigilant about her own wellness. Yet even after a lifetime of awareness, Sharon received the call that no woman ever wants to hear. Facing a cancer diagnosis, Sharon once more tackled decisions about her own treatment. Just as she always had, Sharon Sanders became captain of her own team.
committee at HRMC. Having worked with both doctors in the past, Sharon felt comfortable approaching the physicians for advice on what steps to take next. “I knew of their character. They had such generous hearts working with me in the past,” said Sharon. “They had done free cancer screenings and free education for the community. They had more than shown their true character and I trusted them,” she said. The fact that the sentinel node procedure was an option at Hunt Regional also appealed to Sharon. The basis of sentinel lymph node tracing during surgery is to determine if cancer has spread from its original location to the lymph glands by testing the lymph node closest to the cancer’s location (the sentinel node). If the sentinel node does not contain cancer, then there is a high likelihood For Sharon Sanders, being an advocate for her own that the cancer has not spread to other areas of the body. health runs in the family. The doctors gave Sharon several referrals, but it “I’ve always been very proactive with my own health was a new surgeon named Dr. Joshua Trussell, who was because my mother was a cancer survivor,” said Sharon. ultimately chosen by Sharon. The young, dynamic doctor had just arrived at Hunt Regional and came with the After a melanoma took her mother’s eye fifty years endorsement that he was “as good ago, Sharon’s mother didn’t complain. She as anyone the doctors had ever donated the eye to the University of Kansas worked with before.” Medical Center for research, moved on, and “They had done free lived a full life before passing away at age 86. Before joining the cancer team cancer screenings and in 2009, Dr. Trussell earned his “She was my hero for doing whatever it medical degree at the University takes to beat cancer,” said Sharon. free education for the of Texas Health Science Center Like clockwork, each year brings an School of Medicine in Houston and community. They had annual mammogram, keeping Sharon completed his surgical residency at informed about her own wellness. And so, it more than shown their true Banner Good Samaritan Medical was after receiving her yearly mammogram Center in Phoenix, Arizona. character and I trusted at Hunt Regional Medical Center that As a healthcare employee, Sharon received the dreaded callback letter them.” Sharon recalls being asked multiple stating that something abnormal was on the times if she wanted a referral to a image. SHARON SANDERS larger hospital in the metroplex. Dr. Steven Clifford, the radiologist The quick answer is that she reading the screening knew right away didn’t. that something was wrong, delivering the news that nobody wants to receive. In his opinion, he was “I knew that my options were as good or better here,” looking at a cancer diagnosis. said Sharon. “Trust me, I checked out Dr. Trussell…he was “He didn’t sugar coat it and that’s what I wanted,” said the real deal.” Sharon. Dr. Clifford told her that she would need an immediate biopsy and arranged for her to have the procedure right away, even though he would be out of town. It was April 5, 2010. Her husband’s birthday. Patients facing a life-threatening illness often experience multiple emotions, including overwhelming fear or sadness. Sharon Sanders didn’t get sad, she got mad. “I knew in my gut when I opened the letter that something was wrong. I was mad. I wanted it gone,” recalls Sharon. After receiving a cancer diagnosis, a patient usually “I was mad that the bully cancer had picked on me. I visits their primary care physician before visiting with an would fight it until the end and I was mad,” she said. oncologist. But for Sharon, the decision to mix things up came down to a matter of trust. When Sharon first met with Dr. Trussell, she was prepared for the worst. Having lost her business partner “I did things backwards. I went straight to the and best friend to breast cancer, Sharon knew first-hand specialists at Texas Oncology, Dr. Petrikas and Dr. the real fight ahead of her. To her surprise, she was Shreedhara,” says Sharon. greeted by Dr. Trussell with optimism. Because of her James J. Petrikas, D.O., leads the Lou and Jack Finney diligence in receiving her annual screening mammograms, Cancer Center team at HRMC where he serves as the Sharon had caught her cancer early. Unlike many women, a radiation oncologist, while Meera Shreedhara-Vasudha, mastectomy wasn’t her only choice. M.D.is the medical oncologist, chairing the cancer care
The Diagnosis
Fighting back
A relationship built on trust
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feature “Dr. Trussell spoke with me and told me that because I advice. caught it early, I had options,” Sharon remembers. With no history of breast cancer and an otherwise healthy body, Sharon was presented with the option of a lumpectomy. “I listened to my surgeon, I listened to my oncologist. I It was from Sharon’s mother than she learned to be chose the lumpectomy and I have no regrets,” said Sharon. vigilant about her own health and it is with that same “Because I had that early screening and early detection spirit that Sharon has raised her own children. and because I had a good radiologist that caught the “When I received the diagnosis, I called all my children. cancer, I had that choice and I felt comfortable,” she said. I have three daughters, two sons and two daughters-in-law and they all have daughters,” said Sharon. Realizing just how fortunate she was to have caught the cancer, Sharon returned to her original radiologist, “I said, ‘tag, you’re it.’ Now go tell your daughters that Dr. Clifford, following her meeting with Dr. Trussell and I’m going to be okay,” she said. thanked him for saving her life. That straightforwardness paid off, as within a matter “He was new and I was one of his first diagnoses. He of weeks Sharon’s 18-year-old took his time and showed me the granddaughter found a lump in her changes that were spotted on the breast. Rather than ignore the issue, mammograms,” said Sharon with “I listened to my surgeon, I she immediately approached her gratitude. listened to my oncologist. I chose mother with her concern. Dr. Clifford explained to “I am so proud of that because the lumpectomy and I have no Sharon that her cancer was it told me that she knew she was in an unpredictable variety. If charge of things,” said Sharon. regrets. Because I had that early left undetected, it might have While her granddaughter did remained dormant for five years. screening and early detection and undergo surgery, the lump was found Or, it could have exploded within to be non-cancerous. because I had a good radiologist a week. Sharon now sits on the hospital that caught the cancer, I had that With hope and a plan, Sharon tumor and cancer boards twice immediately began her battle choice and I felt comfortable.” a month so that she can take against breast cancer, starting with important health information directly her surgery and an advanced new SHARON SANDERS to the community, remarking that she test, the Oncotype DX. The test feels a great sense of responsibility to takes factors including age, staging, share with women the necessity of health, history of cancer and screening and early detection—particularly the women in margins and assigns a number that allows an oncologist Hunt County—through the outreach of the new mobile to determine whether radiology alone will be sufficient mammography coach. treatment or if patients will also require chemotherapy. As an employee of AEGIS, a partner company of Hunt For Sharon, that number was a good one. “I healed Regional Healthcare, it is also Sharon’s job to facilitate beautifully, I had good margins. The Onca test gave me a wellness initiatives for Hunt County’s employers and share low enough number—it was good Las Vegas odds—that her passion for health with community members. I needed no chemo, just radiology,” said Sharon with a “I’m very strong in my faith. I don’t believe that God smile. gave me cancer, but I believe that God has allowed me to Having given tours of the west wing at HRMC prior use that experience to save lives,” she said. to her diagnosis, Sharon felt a level of comfort with her As she recalls the most prominent memories of treatment unfamiliar to many while undergoing over 30 her treatment, Sharon says that she believes the most rounds of radiology. important facet leading to her positive outcome was the “I had laid my hands on the machine. I probably should teamwork and relationships between all of the different have been afraid, but I wasn’t,” said Sharon. physicians and lines of service, including the knowledge Adding to her comfort level was the level of share that took place between the pathologists, convenience of close-to-home care. radiologists, surgeons, nurses and other staff members. “It was unbelievable. Instead of getting in my car, “There were no egos out there,” she stated. driving to the metroplex and getting out of my car for a “There were no egos when patient lives were at 10 minute zap, I could just go downstairs,” said Sharon. stake.” “In 15 minutes, I was done,” she said. Sharon also recalls the sense of peace she felt with her team as nurses prayed over her, techs began to recognize WANT TO KNOW MORE? her and staff members rallied around her. When the ONLINE: www.huntregional.org/cancer-center.htm inevitable side effects rolled around—including the CALL: 903.408.5112 dreaded burning sensation—the team was there to help, even offering home remedies and volunteering their own
Passing the Torch
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NAPBC ACCREDITED
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he mobile mammography coach is at work in Hunt County, aiming to improve the troubling statistics regarding the frequency of early detection through the convenience of on-the-go screening, and has benefited from Hunt Regional Medical Center’s recent accreditation by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). This distinction positions HRMC’s imaging center at the same level as Baylor Medical Center of Dallas and Medical City Dallas. The NAPBC is a nongovernmental, not-forprofit organization that was established to identify and recognize breast centers providing quality care in the U.S. It is a combination of national, professional organizations dedicated to the improvement of the quality of care and outcomes of women with diseases of the breast. Accreditation by the NAPBC is granted only to those centers that are voluntarily committed to providing the best possible care
to patients. Each breast center undergoes a rigorous evaluation and review of its performance and compliance with NAPBC standards. To maintain accreditation, centers must monitor compliance with NAPBC standards to ensure quality care and must also undergo an on-site review every three years. HRMC offers every service for breast cancer care—from diagnostics to surgery to oncology. When it comes to treating and beating breast cancer, the breast cancer program takes a patient from diagnosis to remission. Receiving care at a NAPBC-accredited breast center ensures that you will receive: • A multidisciplinary, team approach to coordinate the best care and treatment options available • Access to breast cancerrelated information, education and support • Breast cancer data collection
and monitoring of quality indicators for all subspecialties involved in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment • Ongoing monitoring and improvement of care • Information about clinical trials and new treatment options NAPBC is administered by the American College of Surgeons.
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To learn more about the accreditation process, visit www. napbc-breast.org.
A legacy of hope:
HUNT REGIONAL HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION HOSTS MOBILE MAMMOGRAPHY DEDICATION
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riends, family and hospital employees gathered last month to celebrate the life of Tubby Adkisson, one of Hunt County’s most beloved volunteers during a dedication of the mobile mammography coach. Founder of the Hunt County Opportunity Center, the Hunt County Association for Retarded Citizens and the Greenville Hospital Auxiliary and Candy Stripers, Tubby passed away in January 2013 at the age of 87. At the event, Tubby’s son, Richard Adkisson, spoke of the fitting nature of having a vehicle named after his mother, given her work all over the county. Dee Hilton, board campaign coordinator of “Help on Wheels,” also spoke of Tubby and how “she defined ‘volunteerism’ in Hunt County.” Now christened the Tubby Adkisson Mobile Mammography Coach, the unit is at work in the area, providing mobile breast cancer screening to women in Hunt County and surrounding areas. Call 903.408.5010 to schedule an appointment or to find a screening location near you.
Aside from skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women. About 1 in 8 women in the US (12%) will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime. SOURCE: CANCER.ORG
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real health
Spotlight on health: TIPS FOR HEALTHY TRAVEL THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
The bags are packed and you have your tickets in hand.You’re ready to go. But have you thought about your health while you’re away? Successful holiday traveling means healthy holiday traveling and all it takes is a little bit of planning.
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hen visiting family this holiday season, make sure to take care of medical check-ups before you hit the road. If you take medication, take enough to last your entire trip. As an extra precaution, take part of the packaging showing the generic rather than the brand name, which will make getting replacements easier. To avoid any problems, it’s also wise to have a letter from your doctor with you to prove you legally use the medication. It is also a good idea to take a spare set of glasses, contact lenses and dentures in case of accidental loss or damage. If you are flying, current security concerns can make it difficult, if not impossible, to bring some things in your carry-on. Diabetics in particular should be aware that there are now new regulations on air travel that affect them.You should contact your airline before you even start to pack, so that you are aware of the restrictions and can avoid problems at the airport. The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends that passengers avoid overeating, sleep well before a flight and refrain from drinking alcohol or taking unnecessary
medication while in flight in order to avoid jet lag. Walking around the cabin while in flight or stretching in your seat will help to keep the blood circulating in your feet and legs. In addition, drinking plenty of water during and after the flight will help prevent dehydration. Remember that it can be more difficult to stop the symptoms of motion sickness once they start, so some travelers prefer prevention instead. This may mean avoiding reading on planes or trains, for example, or avoiding foods and alcohol that may make the problem worse. Over-the-counter motion sickness pills can also be helpful. Pregnant women have some extra concerns while traveling, especially to areas where emergency medical care may not be available. The Centers for Disease Control advises pregnant women to consult with their doctor before making any travel decisions. Determine beforehand whether prenatal care will be required while away and, if so, who will provide it. The pregnant traveler should also make sure prenatal visits requiring specific timing are not missed.
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feature THE WACASEY FAMILY ENJOYS A SPECIAL MOMENT TOGETHER NOW THAT THE ENTIRE FAMILY IS TOGETHER AT LAST
We chose Hunt Regional TO DELIVER OUR MIRACLE BY MELVA GEYER
feature Cody and Gwen Wacasey were eagerly awaiting the birth of their third child. It would be their third trip to the Truett and Margaret Crim Maternity Center at Hunt Regional Medical Center, where their two sons, Jacob and Elijah, were born.The Greenville facility, which held happy memories for the Wacasey family, had once again been chosen for another milestone moment. Everything seemed to be going as anticipated as the couple planned for the birth of the family’s newest addition, Zachariah. But as is often the case with best laid plans, baby Zachariah’s arrival was far from routine.
neonatal nurses and respiratory therapists who are available 24 hours a day. They may also be called subspecialty care centers or subspecialty NICUs. Before HRMC opened a Level 3 NICU, newborns suffering complicated illnesses or born prematurely had to be transferred to Dallas or other hospitals to receive life-saving care. Now, those same babies can remain in Greenville. Gwen Wacasey recalls her fear that Zachariah most likely would not have survived a transfer due to the immediacy of the problem. “They put Zachariah on my chest and he was purple, which was disheartening. He was there only two seconds before they rushed him away,” said Gwen. As the NICU staff worked to stabilize Zachariah, the baby’s father, Cody Wacasey was allowed to stay—an opportunity that gave the new father much-needed hope and comfort in a terrifying situation. “They let me touch him “They put Zachariah on my and talk to him,” recalls Cody. Before his arrival in Hunt chest and he was purple, Meanwhile, the specially County, neonatologist Dr. skilled staff was able to bring Asif Khattak spent his days which was disheartening. Zachariah to 100% oxygen. caring for DFW’s smallest He was there only two and sickest patients. After As Cody went back to spending nine years as an seconds before they rushed the room with the nurse attending neonatologist at to tell Gwen the news, the him away.” Baylor University Medical couple braced for the worst, Center, Dr. Khattak served uncertain of what was to GWEN WACASEY as the chairman of the come. The staff quickly pediatrics department and pinpointed the problem, medical director of the diagnosing baby Zachariah neonatal unit at Baylor Irving with pulmonary hypertension. for six years. He could not effectively make the switch from the womb to breathing on his own. It was Khattak’s desire to provide evidencebased quality care right here in Greenville. However, as the news was delivered with Rather than bringing the babies to Baylor, a smile rather than concern, the Wacaseys felt Khattak wanted to bring Baylor to them. a sense of peace. For the Wacaseys now knew what the staff had known all along: they had It was that dream that saved Zachariah come to the right place. Zachariah was exactly Wacasey’s life. where he needed to be.
The beginning
A bumpy arrival Baby Zachariah, born on June 30, immediately showed signs of respiratory distress that in the past might have meant transferring him to a special unit of a Dallas hospital. But, something new at HRMC made the trip unnecessary. A Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) opened in the center on Feb. 1 that would provide the care needed for the Wacaseys’ new arrival. A Level 3 NICU is a neonatal intensive care unit that is capable of caring for newborn babies in distress and has a specialized staff on site, including neonatologists, 16 / healthbeat /
A place for miracles The Truett and Margaret Crim Maternity Center at HRMC has long held a reputation for excellent care. But for Dr. Khattak, father of four, excellent wasn’t good enough. “The presence of a Level 3 NICU allows Hunt Regional to have a highly trained resuscitation team present at every high risk delivery. This translates into significantly improved survival without major disability,” said Dr. Khattak. Architecting such an outstanding center wasn’t an easy undertaking. Developing the
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feature the Wacasey family rallied around their newborn fighter. Level 3 NICU involved hiring 12 nurse practitioners, preparing the space in the maternity center, obtaining “As soon as we got to see our baby, Dr. Khattak new equipment, writing policies, training the bedside staff stayed with us, explaining everything. It was like Zachariah and developing a collaborative work agreement with was his only patient,” said Gwen. physicians. The process also required the involvement of Neonatal care is different for every baby. Each an ophthalmologist and cardiology group. baby’s stay and treatment plan depends on the gestation Richard Carter, CEO of Hunt Regional Healthcare, period at the time of delivery, explained Janet Grandfield, said the need for the NICU has been evident for some manager of the HRMC nursery. time. A baby born at 28 weeks would “Our goal is always to provide remain in NICU at least until it medical care of the highest quality “This was the best place we could has reached the normal 40-week by the best providers without gestation period, she said. Other be, hands down. The excellence having to drive to Dallas. We are stays depend on the severity and very proud to offer this service outcome of an illness. they brought in treating my on behalf of our community and For Zachariah, that timeline newborn son was just amazing.” the surrounding regional area,” lasted 13 days, during which time the Carter said. CODY WACASEY Wacasey’s recall the appreciation As final protocols with the they felt for the level of knowledge pharmacy, laboratory, dieticians and attention given by the staff. and other departments were established, Dr. Khattak’s “They stayed with us and supported us throughout his vision started to become clearer. After three months 13 days in the hospital,” said Gwen. of rigorous training, policy development and equipment For the Wacaseys, choosing Hunt Regional changed installation and adjustments, the 12 bed unit opened on the outcome of one of the most important moments in Feb. 1. their lives. And unexpectedly, the family that they had “Now, the NICU offers intensive care to the sickest planned to grow by one, multiplied by much more than neonates who could potentially not make it if they were anticipated. to be transported to Dallas,” said Khattak, noting that “The staff celebrated with us every milestone the facility recently added a high frequency ventilation Zachariah reached,” said Gwen. program specifically geared toward infants in distress. “They became part of the family.” And so, in only a matter of months, the Truett and Margaret Crim Maternity Center was transformed into a place for miracles.
From distress to relief
WANT TO KNOW MORE? ONLINE: www.huntregional.org/maternit.htm CALL: 903.408.5180
As the treatment of baby Zachariah’s condition began,
What’s in a number?: BREAKING DOWN THE NICU BY LEVELS Not all NICUs are the same. NICU levels are defined by the American Academy of Pediatrics with standards that are upheld by each unit’s medical director.
Level 4: Level 3: Level 2: Level 1:
Highest level available, maintaining a full range of pediatric medical and surgical subspecialists and pediatric anesthesiologists on-site Provide sustained life support and prompt, readily available access to full range of pediatric subspecialists Intensive care for sick and premature infants who need extra support Regular nursery care available at most hospitals that deliver babies SOURCE: AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS
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real health
Spotlight on health: HOW IMPORTANT IS MY FAMILY HISTORY?
To get the most accurate health history information, take the opportunity this holiday season to talk directly with your relatives. Explain to them that their health information can help improve prevention and screening of diseases for all family members.
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ou’ve arrived at your doctor’s office on time and are ready for your appointment. Then, the office staff hands you a clipboard full of paperwork you need to fill out. This is a familiar scene in any physician’s waiting room around the nation, and for good reason. Filling out that medical information may give your doctor some insight into your medical past, and may even help ensure a safer physical future. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), knowing your family history might be one of the strongest factors in determining your risk of disease, and helping with prevention. Changing your genetic makeup is not an option, but according to CDC, knowing your genetic makeup, your family history, can leave you with a map of sorts of what you can expect down the road, and may even be able to help you chart a new course of direction. The CDC says that the key features of a family history that may increase risk include: diseases that occur at an early age, diseases in several family members, a combination of diseases in a family and diseases that do not usually affect a certain gender.
Healthcare professionals have known for years that many common diseases are genetic, or run in families. For example, if one generation of a family has heart disease, it is not unusual for the next generation to have cardiac problems. According to the United States Department of Health & Human Services (HHS), tracing diseases like heart disease, cancer, stroke, diabetes, alcoholism and depression may help your doctor predict your risk. Even knowledge of rare diseases like hemophilia, sickle cell anemia and cystic fibrosis can be extremely helpful in taking action to help keep you and your family healthy. So just how important is your family’s health portrait? It is so important that the US government has established a day for it. The Surgeon General declared Thanksgiving 2004 the first annual National Family History Day. Pretty clever, considering many families gather on this day anyway. The Surgeon General encourages families to sit around and talk, and perhaps even write down the health problems that seem to run in their family. The effort, according to HHS, can prove to ensure many holidays together in the years to come.
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www.facebook.com/huntregional
Dr. Roxana Cruz, M.D.
20 / healthbeat /
Sharon Ozarowski, FNP-C
GOODTO GO HRMC INTRODUCES NEWTOOL
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t is every provider’s goal to make sure the transition from hospital to home is as smooth as possible. Part of that transition includes making sure patients and their family members understand all discharge instructions. To ensure patient understanding, Hunt Regional Medical Center at Greenville has implemented a new system, the Good to Go® communication tool, which records caregiver and patient conversations at discharge. Using an Apple iPad, the tool captures the discharge instructions as they are given in real life. Each nurse can now be seen at the patient’s bedside at discharge with an iPad in hand. After the Good to Go® program records the care instructions, patients have the opportunity to re-listen at any time through a telephone, computer or any device that has internet access. This convenient feature
allows patients to re-visit the teaching and clarify any questions or confusion that may linger regarding their post-hospital care. Additionally, the patients can authorize family members, friends or other care providers, enabling them to listen to the recorded instructions as many times as needed for 30 days. Along with vocal instructions, the communication tool can also capture and share patient education documents in various disciplines including nursing, respiratory therapy and physical therapy. There are also tools that show patient followup appointments and new medications. Good to Go® is currently being used on Tele West and Tele East at HRMC. Hunt Regional hopes to expand
66%
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Good to Go® throughout the hospital in the months to come.
Patients can access Good to Go® online by clicking the Good to Go® logo on the left side of the HRH home page.
In memoriam:
HUNT REGIONAL HEALTHCARE REMEMBERS THE FRIENDS WE LOVE AND MISS
Margaret Glynn Cross - Volunteer Mary Haney Freeman - Volunteer Debra Helms - Social Worker Edna Jeane Stiggers - Volunteer
Approximately 66% of family caregivers are women. The typical family caregiver is a 49-year-old woman caring for her widowed 69-year-old mother who does not live with her. She is married and employed. SOURCE: CAREGIVERACTION.ORG
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events
season events this
CHECK OUT WHAT IS HAPPENING IN HEALTHCARE THE NEXT FEW MONTHS
OCTOBER 1-31
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is commit-
ted to increasing awareness of breast cancer issues, including early detection and encouraging women to take charge of their own breast health by practicing regular breast self-exams, scheduling annual mammograms, adhering to prescribed treatment, and knowing the facts about recurrence.To schedule a mammogram or to host the Tubby Adkisson Mobile Mammography Coach, contact 903.408.5010.
NOVEMBER 1-30
ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH In 1983, President Ronald Reagan declared November National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month.The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support, and research. MORE INFORMATION: www.alz.org
OCTOBER 10TH
NOVEMBER 19TH
BRAS FOR THE CAUSE
MEMORY SCREENING In honor of the 11th annual National Memory Screening Day, the Behavioral Health Unit at
MORE INFORMATION: www.nbcam.org NOVEMBER 1-30
AMERICAN DIABETES MONTH For more information on how to deal with diabetes, contact our Diabetes Self-Management Center at 903.408.5130. MORE INFORMATION: www.huntregional.org/diabetes.htm
featured event
Hunt Regional Medical Center in Greenville will host a memory and Alzheimer’s screening event from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. on the second floor of HRMC. For more information, call 903.408.1500. NOVEMBER 21
GREAT AMERICAN SMOKEOUT
Bras for the Cause celebrated its fifth anniversary this year! The event raised a record-breaking total of over $87,000 for women and men fighting breast cancer in Hunt County! Throughout the evening, hundreds of bras were on display in downtown Greenville, with the awards ceremony taking place at Landon Winery. SEE THE BRAS: http://calicocatgreenville.com/bras.htm FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL: 903.408.1064 The American Cancer Society held its first Great American Smokeout in 1976 as a way to inspire smokers to quit for a day. The Great American Smokeout still encourages smokers to commit to making a long-term plan to quit smoking for good. Hunt Regional offers a smoking cessation program by appointment Monday-Friday, where patients can take advantage of a variety of treatment options including prescription and over-the-counter medications. Patients are evaluated and treated based on their individual history and needs. For more information, contact Donna Tubb at 903.408.1942. MORE INFORMATION:
www.cancer.com/smokeout
DECEMBER 1
WORLD AIDS DAY MORE INFORMATION: www.aids.gov
notes
Family ties The Foster family took time during a recent family visit to Greenville to visit Hunt Regional Medical Center, where rooms on the third floor of the west wing were named in memory of family matriarchs, Mary Alice Warren Foster and Ruth Knox Foster.
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: ALEX FOSTER, GRANDSON, CAMDEN, MAINE; VALERIE LEVINE FOSTER, DAUGHTER-IN-LAW, CAMDEN, MAINE; KEN FOSTER, SON, CAMDEN, MAINE; MIRTA FOSTER, DAUGHTER-IN-LAW, AUSTIN, TEXAS; WARREN FOSTER, SON, AUSTIN,TEXAS; JENNIFER FOSTER, DAUGHTER, NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE; NANCY KATE HAMILTON, SISTER-IN-LAW, GREENVILLE, TEXAS; HARRIET FOSTER,WIFE, HOUSTON, TEXAS; JOE B. FOSTER, HOUSTON, TEXAS
Notes
FROM FOUNDATION DIRECTOR ALICIAWITTKOPF
S
ince joining Hunt Regional Healthcare in February, I have been tremendously overwhelmed by the spirit of generosity from our donors. I recently had the opportunity to meet the family of one of our benefactors, Joe B. Foster. As I met and talked with three generations of the Foster family, it was clear to me that each of them places a strong worth on the importance of the family bond. Hunt Regional has been touched by this value, as their generosity demonstrates their hope that other families will also be able to experience that joy for years to come. I also had the privilege to be at the center of my first Bras for the Cause with Janeen Cunningham and Pud Kearns. I was eager to help and humbled to find myself among a family of hundreds of women and men encouraging friends and business partners to rally together against breast cancer in Hunt County.
At the end of the night this community effort garnered $87,506* for those battling breast cancer in our local communities. Bras for the Cause 2013 was a huge success thanks to each of the volunteers and sponsors that I now have the good fortune to call my friends.
“I have been tremendously overwhelmed by the spirit of generosity from our donors.” ALICIA WITTKOPF - DIRECTOR
I hope that you enjoyed the new look of healthbeat and that you will continue to follow the Hunt Regional Healthcare patient success stories that happen each day in our facilities. Who knows? One day, the story may be yours.
*This figure is accurate as of 10/10/2013. Generous donations continue to come in to the foundation office.
Alicia A. Wittkopf, Director Hunt Regional Healthcare Foundation
NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID DALLAS, TX PERMIT No. 2024
welcomes hunt regional
Kenneth Adams, M.D. Physicial Medicine & Rehab
Harold Barnard, D.O. Family Medicine
Roxana Cruz, M.D. Internal Medicine
Mubariz Naqvi, M.D. Pediatrics & Neonatology
Lakshmi Pathak, M.D. Internal Medicine
Michael Spears, M.D. Pathology
Andrew Standerwick, M.D. General & Bariatric Surgery
William Winn, D.O. Physicial Medicine & Rehab