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Mending Broken Hearts Through New Technology Page 8
President’s Letter Methodist Health System has been a leader in the health care industry in the Omaha area for more than 126 years. For us to withstand the many changes of our industry, we have had to be agile and embrace new technology, while also considering new approaches to connecting with patients who need our care and expertise. We have brought many medical firsts to the Omaha community, and we are continually exploring new technologies and treatments that will help our patients lead healthier, longer lives.
Steve Goeser
President and CEO Methodist Health System
Today our maternal-fetal medicine specialists at Methodist Women’s Hospital take their expertise on the road – providing care to families who may be facing high-risk pregnancies. Our team travels to Grand Island and Hastings to assist obstetric physicians and their patients through challenging pregnancies. They are co-managing cases with our team at Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital in Council Bluffs, allowing families to deliver their babies closer to home. We also offer telemedicine services to physicians and their patients in Albion and Norfolk. New technologies are helping us improve health and quality of life for patients with chronic atrial fibrillation whose current medication or treatment plans are no longer effective. Innovative procedures like the WATCHMAN™ and a new wireless pacemaker provide these patients with peace of mind, while allowing them to enjoy their grandchildren and break free from medication regimens. Those who have suffered for years with chronic joint pain are finding relief and a new lease on life with new therapies provided by our orthopedic experts. We will not stop exploring new ways to deliver The Meaning of Care to you, our patients; we’ve been doing so for 126 years and we will continue for many years to come. Sincerely,
, ski, MD d Fiksin lace a n u m d E ,p ft: cha, MD From Le hew Lata r via catheter. tt a M d an ake s pacem wireles
Reaching Out To Provide Specialized Care Page 4
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Mending Broken Hearts Through New Technology Page 8
Customized Care for Advanced Orthopedic Healing Page 12
Fremont Health Board of Trustees; and Steve Goeser, president and CEO of Methodist Health System, signed the historic agreement. The affiliation agreement creates a new organization, Methodist Fremont Health, which will be part of the Methodist Health System family.
Fremont Health, Methodist Move Forward with Affiliation Agreement
It was 18 months in the making and on July 24 it became official, Fremont Health joined Methodist Health System when the affiliation agreement between the two health care organizations was signed. With leadership and staff from both organizations on hand, Larry Shepard, chairman of the Fremont Health Clinic; Monty Sellon, MD, chairman of the
“From the very beginning of this process, we were impressed by the staff, physicians, facilities and others involved in providing health care to the Fremont and Dodge County communities,” said Steve Goeser, president and CEO of Methodist Health System. “Those initial thoughts were only reinforced as discussions continued over the past several months. Those talks solidified the belief of Methodist Health System leadership that Fremont Health was a great fit – baring many similarities to Methodist’s mission and culture.” Strategic partnership discussions between Fremont Health and Methodist Health System began in February, when Methodist Health System was chosen from a list of three finalists. “This is certainly an exciting time for us,” said Pat Booth, president and CEO of Fremont Health. “Leadership from both organizations worked diligently over the
past few months to reach an agreement that achieves the key objectives established by each organization. The affiliation between Methodist and Fremont Health will enhance access to care, services and the latest technologies for patients in the region.” A phase of integration planning between the two organizations is now underway, with the new organizational structure implemented this fall.
New Medical Office Building in Council Bluffs Families in western Iowa will soon have more health care options available to them when a new 60,000-square-foot medical office building is constructed on the Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital campus.
The new building will be home to primary care physicians, women’s services and urgent care services. The cost of the three-story building will total $16 million. “This is very exciting for our community,” said Steve Baumert, president and CEO, Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital. “For more than 130 years, families have trusted us for the birth of their child, to a loved one’s last days and everything in between. We value that relationship and people’s trust in us. This project demonstrates our commitment to and investment in improved community health for generations to come.” The first floor of the medical office building will become home to approximately 15 Methodist Physicians Clinic primary care providers. It will also include an imaging suite and a new urgent care with easy access and extended hours. The second floor will be a hub for women’s services. Use of the third floor is yet to be determined, but will be finished to accommodate additional anticipated growth.
Fremont Health and Methodist leadership at the document signing. From left: Larry Shepard, Monty Sellon, MD, and Steve Goeser
Construction of the medical office building will begin later this year, with completion anticipated by early 2020.
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Reaching Out TO PROVIDE SPECIALIZED CARE Story by Katina Granger
Kari McMartin with her husband, Travis, and daughters, Evelynn and Elise.
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Cuddling her newborn baby with her toddler sleeping on the floor at her feet, Kari McMartin packs a lot of love into her cozy home in rural Hancock, Iowa. About an hour east of the Council Bluffs city limits, Kari keeps her windows wide open to catch the fresh country breeze. Sitting quietly together, it’s easy to see how she adores her two daughters.
Brendan Connealy, MD, FACOG, consults with a patient via telemedicine technology.
“It’s so funny how different they are,” said Kari as she smiled down at her 6-week-old infant. “Elise was a pretty fussy baby, but Evelynn is just so calm.” Content with her babies by her side, it’s easy to forget the complications that came with their arrival. Due to Kari’s medical history – battling and beating Hodgkin’s lymphoma – each of her pregnancies were monitored not only by her OB/GYN, but also by maternal-fetal medicine specialists from Methodist Women’s Hospital Perinatal Center.
Specialized Care During Pregnancy
Also known as perinatologists, maternal-fetal medicine specialists are fellowship-trained and board-certified obstetricians with additional specialized training in the management of pregnancy complications and treatment of high-risk pregnancies. They often work alongside
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Part of my personal drive was to bring skilled services to those people who really need it and sometimes have limited abilities to access it.
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— Brendan Connealy, MD, FACOG
a regular provider when a pregnancy may be more complex. Kari’s obstetrician wanted to work with a maternal-fetal medicine specialist because of Kari’s cancer treatment history. Driving all the way to west Omaha wasn’t always easy for Kari and her husband, a farmer in rural Iowa. During her first pregnancy, traveling to and from Omaha for appointments stole several hours out of their day. But thanks to new outreach programs by those highly skilled professionals, her second pregnancy came with a little extra convenience.
Care Closer to Home
“We wanted to be able to provide high quality, evidencebased maternal care as far over a remote area as we could,” said Joshua Dahlke, MD, FACOG, one of eight maternal-fetal medicine specialists at Methodist. “We want to give the smaller communities and the great doctors who take care of pregnant moms the same level of care and support they could get if they lived here.” That same passion is shared among the entire Methodist Women’s Hospital Perinatal Center team. Maternal-fetal medicine specialist Brendan Connealy, MD, FACOG, was born and raised in Nebraska. Hailing from Chadron, which is by Connealy’s own definition “remote and rural,” he knows how access to highly specialized medical care – like the care he provides – isn’t always easy for those who live farther away from bigger cities. “Part of my personal drive was to bring skilled services to those people who really need it and sometimes have limited abilities to access it,” Dr. Connealy said. “It's important because those farming communities are really the backbone of our state. We need to do everything we can to provide them with care.”
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The McMartin family talks with Maureen Boyle, MD, after a follow-up visit.
Expanding Their Reach
The maternal-fetal medicine team began by expanding its clinical space and outreach beyond the Methodist Women’s Hospital campus. Twice a week, maternal-fetal medicine specialists hold office hours across the river at Methodist Physicians Clinic Council Bluffs. They work with OB/GYNs like Kari McMartin’s provider, Maureen Boyle, MD, to bring care closer to families in Iowa. “What's nice about having them here is we meet them in person and they know how we practice,” Dr. Boyle said. “They understand our strengths, know who we are, and can help guide us through the process when we need them. It’s not just more convenient for our patients. It’s also about having a colleague with a few extra years of specific training in high-risk obstetrics to bounce ideas by when we have a complicated pregnancy.”
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In Kari’s case, the ability to see Dr. Boyle and a maternal-fetal medicine specialist in the same visit cut her commute by nearly 45 minutes. It was a convenience that meant a lot to her and her family. “It made the frequent trips to see the doctor just a little easier,” Kari said.
Easing the Burden
For other families, the distance to see a specialized provider is cut by several hours. “There are certainly disparities we see across the state when it comes to access,” Dr. Connealy said. “If you live in the middle of the Sandhills and you have to drive 60 or 70 miles just to get to a small community hospital to deliver a baby, think about what happens if you have a complication in your pregnancy or you have an issue that requires additional care. It's just a huge burden on these families.”
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We really couldn’t have asked for a better team of providers. Feeling comfortable and confident in the care and direction we received was very
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important to us.
— Kari McMartin
Thanks to technology and partnerships that extend even further, Methodist maternal-fetal medicine specialists monitor pregnancies and lend their expertise to providers and patients in areas of far western, central and north central Nebraska. “We’ve opened up relationships with providers, and it has spiraled into a lot of different things,” Dr. Connealy said. “We are in a unique position where we have a large group of providers, several of us who have connections to the state, and so we have the ability and manpower to provide this service. We're not afraid to drive 150 miles on a highway to take care of people if we can do that.” Twice a month, Methodist maternal-fetal medicine specialists drive to Hastings and Grand Island to visit with patients and providers in person. In between those visits, they take advantage of telemedicine services.
Putting Technology to Work
When they are not in front of patients, Methodist maternal-fetal medicine specialists are often in front of a camera and computer having a one-on-one consultation from across the state. Via telemedicine technology, the specialists read ultrasounds sent to them by providers as far away as Albion and Norfolk. “We are able to screen and monitor mothers for conditions that risk their health or the health of their baby, as well as identify any issues with their baby through ultrasound,” Dr. Dahlke said. “That certainly shouldn't be different whether you live in a smaller town or a bigger town. With the quality of sonographers in these towns and with communication, we can do a really good job of helping these families.” “We have sonographers who we train and are able to do ultrasounds and obtain images which they can then share with us through our system,” Dr. Connealy said. “I sit down and review that with a patient where I'm talking to them through a live video feed. They're able to see in my face and I'm able to see their face, so it does have a personal aspect to it.” When long-distance care is required, the relationship begins with an initial consultation. From there, the maternal-fetal medicine specialists, patients and their primary care providers work together to plan out the rest of the pregnancy when it comes to monitoring and ultrasounds. That plan can look very
Joshua Dahlke, MD, FACOG, performs an ultrasound during a visit with a patient at the Methodist Physicians Clinic Council Bluffs OB/GYN clinic. different depending on the complexity of the situation – everything from a one-time consultation to weekly surveillance. “One goal is to be able to have moms and babies together as much as possible in the immediate postpartum period, and also keep them close to their home,” Dr. Dahlke said. “That's not always possible. There may be reasons why moms need to transfer to Omaha for their care, but the goal is to keep moms and babies close to their home and close to their loved ones.”
Keeping It Close
Kari knows just how much it means to stay close to home. Her two pregnancies were treated by maternal-fetal medicine providers, but at two different locations.
Maternal-Fetal Medicine at Methodist Women’s Hospital When your pregnancy is complex, your OB/GYN or midwife may recommend you be cared for by a maternal-fetal medicine specialist (perinatologist). Many pre-existing or developing medical conditions can impact your pregnancy and lead to the need for consultation with a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, including:
Her first daughter was born at Methodist Women’s Hospital and her second was delivered closer to her Iowa home at Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital. “We really couldn’t have asked for a better team of providers,” Kari said. “Feeling comfortable and confident in the care and direction we received was very important to us. I had a great experience with both of my pregnancies, but having the maternal-fetal medicine specialists come to us the second time around made everything so much easier!”
To watch the video, visit bestcaretoday.com
• Twins, triplets and higher-order multiples • Exposure to medications, radiation, alcohol or drugs • Positive maternal serum screening • Infectious disease in pregnancy • Maternal illness or disease • Previous miscarriage or pregnancy loss
• Preterm labor
• Patient or family history of genetic and/or chromosomal disorders
• An abnormal finding on a sonogram
• Eating disorders or obesity
• Cervical insufficiency
• Diabetes
• Previous pregnancy complications such as pre-eclampsia (toxemia) or bleeding
• High blood pressure
• Advanced maternal age (35 years or older)
• Fetal growth concerns
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Mending Broken Hearts THROUGH NEW TECHNOLOGY Story by Claudia Bohn
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The Methodist WATCHMANtm Team Matthew Latacha, MD; Traci Jurrens, MD; Edmund Fiksinski, MD
Matthew Latacha, MD, a cardiologist with Methodist Physicians Clinic Heart Consultants meets with Sandy Pykiet.
The human heart can beat up to 100,000 times a day, all the while pumping nearly 2,000 gallons of blood to vital organs and tissues in the body via 60,000 miles of blood vessels. When the heart is functioning in perfect rhythm, the human body is performing at a very high level. But when this muscle, no bigger than your fist, begins to malfunction, it can have a significant impact on the entire body. One of the most common conditions, impacting nearly 3 million Americans according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), is atrial fibrillation (AFib) – a heart arrhythmia condition that causes the heart to beat irregularly and often times too quickly or too slowly. When this occurs, the normal beating in the upper chamber of the heart is irregular and blood doesn’t flow as it should to the lower chamber. People can have brief episodes of AFib or it can be a chronic condition. “We are seeing more and more cases of AFib because one of the risk factors is age, and our population is certainly aging,” said Matthew Latacha, MD, cardiologist/electrophysiologist with Methodist Physicians Clinic Heart Consultants. “Other risk factors can be chronic health conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes, and the numbers of patients with those conditions are also on the rise.”
While medications to correct AFib can be effective, some patients are also placed on blood thinning medications to prevent blood clots from developing and reduce the risk of a stroke. AFib is one of the biggest causes of stroke in the U.S., and those with AFib tend to have much more significant strokes. In addition to medications, AFib patients may require assistance from an ablation procedure to correct the irregular heart rhythm or a medical device such as a pacemaker.
Evolution in Cardiac Care
The evolution in cardiac care has been significant through the years – but recently revolutionary cardiac devices have been developed for those suffering with heart rhythm problems. “For so long in the electrophysiology world many of the advancements we had developed was the ablation of tissues or electrical pathways,” Dr. Latacha said. “We’ve not seen much new medical device technology for some time, so our recently developed devices are revolutionary for us and for patients.” So what’s all the excitement about? How about a wireless pacemaker the size of a AAA battery and a jellyfish-looking device that will stop blood clots that often lead to stroke? Both devices and procedures became available to AFib patients at Methodist Hospital in late 2017 and early 2018, respectively. “Things in my field are moving rapidly. It’s a very exciting time,” Dr. Latacha said.
Always on Her Mind
Sandy Pykiet is the proud grandmother of six grandchildren. From cheerleaders to softball players, Pykiet enjoys supporting her children and their grandchildren. She likes staying busy, especially following the passing of her husband three years ago. “Being a grandma is important,” she said. “It keeps me young.” Pykiet, of Omaha, was diagnosed with AFib following a car accident in 2000. She has been on Coumadin, a popular blood thinning medication, since the diagnosis, and the possibility of a stroke was always on her mind, especially given that her mom died from a stroke. “I have been lucky,” she said. “I have remained healthy and have not had any bleeding issues the past 18 years. Given my mom’s health history, though, I’ve always felt I was a prime candidate for a stroke.”
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Things in my field are moving rapidly. It’s a very exciting time.
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— Matthew Latacha, MD
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Not everyone is a candidate for the WATCHMAN™, which is why Methodist’s team approach to the procedure is so vital. Potential candidates undergo a diagnostic test called a Left atrial appendage with WATCHMAN™ Implant transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) overseen by Traci Jurrens, MD, Illustration provided courtesy of Boston Scientific. cardiologist at Methodist Physicians Clinic ©2018 Boston Scientific Corporation or its affiliates. All rights reserved. Heart Consultants. She was the first patient to undergo the WATCHMAN™ procedure at Methodist Hospital in April. Dr. Latacha and the Methodist cardiac team have successfully performed 10 procedures since. Boston Scientific Corp received Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for the device in 2015. More than 50,000 patients have received the implant to date.
Determining the Best Candidate
The biggest culprit for most strokes in AFib patients is the heart’s left atrial appendage (LAA), where 90 percent of blood clots develop. The WATCHMAN™ puts a stop to that. The LAA is a finger-like appendage, and each person’s is unique – much like a fingerprint. “For many years patients with a high stroke risk would have their LAA surgically removed, which was an open heart surgical procedure,” Dr. Latacha said. “This new device is a game-changer for us.”
“When performing the TEE, I’m looking for several things,” Dr. Jurrens said. “First and foremost my job is to provide Dr. Latacha with measurements of left atrial appendage size. I take measurements of both the width and depth of the left atrial appendage at four standard angles. Some appendages have more favorable anatomy, but in general it is better to have smaller width and longer depth. I’m also scanning the appendage for any evidence of clots.” Those measurements are crucial as the WATCHMAN™ comes in five sizes, and proper fit is essential to the device’s ability to stop clots from passing through. During the TEE the septum — the “wall” that separates the two upper chambers — is also evaluated. At all times prior to and during the procedure the TEE keeps track of any fluid that is accumulating around the heart.
Team Approach
During the WATCHMAN™ procedure, the device is delivered via a transfemoral (groin) approach. A second TEE is conducted by Dr. Jurrens to provide Dr. Latacha with real-time images that help him guide the catheter from the femoral vein to the heart, where a small hole is made in the heart’s septum. Doing so gives Dr. Latacha access to the LAA and the ability to place the device. “The TEE during the procedure is so important,” Dr. Latacha said. “The correct position during the pass through of the septum is critical. It is in such close proximity to the aorta, so angle and location is crucial. Once we are through the septum, the TEE shows us the real-time images of the appendage and helps us guide the device to proper location.” Once properly placed, the device undergoes a “tug” test to assure it’s secure. Additional images are provided for further assessment. A third important member of the WATCHMAN™ team is Edmund Fiksinski, MD, an interventional cardiologist with Methodist Physicians Clinic Heart Consultants. During each procedure Dr. Fiksinski and Dr. Latacha have a tag team approach to ensure a successful outcome. It’s a second set of hands and eyes at the table. The trio work flawlessly together, which is attributed to the training they completed before the WATCHMAN™ debuted at Methodist. “It was important to us that we did the training for this procedure as a team,” Dr. Latacha said. “We were unique in that regard as most health care systems don’t opt to do so. When we place the device and before we release it, all three of us have to agree that we are satisfied with the placement and function of the device.” After undergoing the WATCHMAN™ procedure, patients can anticipate an overnight hospital stay. They will go home still on their blood thinning medication as a precaution. A third TEE is done 45 days after the procedure to assess the device. It’s at this point that nearly 95 percent of patients are taken off their blood thinner. One year after the procedure that number climbs to 99 percent. “We call that anti-coagulation liberation day,” Dr. Latacha said. “For those patients to be off their blood thinner medication is huge.” Pykiet fell into the 95 percent category.
Traci Jurrens, MD, assesses a WATCHMANTM patient with the TEE procedure.
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“This procedure gives you such peace of mind,” Pykiet said. “There is real comfort in knowing that if something happens that little device is in place and will catch it. I truly put my faith
Matthew Latacha, MD, checks a wireless pacemaker before placing the device via catheter. in Dr. Latacha. He and the other doctors are fabulous and I trusted them.”
Small But Mighty Technology
Pacemakers are often placed in patients with chronic AFib. For several years Dr. Latacha and other physicians have utilized the traditional pacemaker, which is placed just under the patient’s skin, near the collarbone. Leads, or small wires, are threaded to the upper or lower chamber of the heart, or in some patients, both chambers.
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The opportunity to mend a broken heart in an age when we have so many tools to both prolong and enhance the lives of our patients is truly remarkable.
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— Matthew Latacha, MD
Parameters are established for the pacing device, increasing the heart rate if it is beating too slowly.
deploy the device with the intent of securing at least two of the hooks into a specific area in the heart’s chamber.”
“The weak link, if you will, with the traditional pacemaker is the leads,” Dr. Latacha said. “Those leads enter the veins that lead to the heart, and that can be a hostile space. Leads are subject to, up to 80 times a minute, a lot of twisting and turning. So you run the risk of them becoming dislodged, and in our older patients those leads do come with an infection risk.”
The wireless pacemaker procedure can be completed in 20 to 30 minutes. Recovery involves resting quietly for a few hours to allow the groin area to heal.
Dr. Latacha has performed more wireless pacemaker procedures than anyone in Nebraska since Methodist began offering them in late 2017. The device is 93 percent smaller than traditional pacemakers, and its design, which results in less energy to pace the heart, means a battery life of up to 12 years. The world’s smallest pacemaker, the Medtronic Micra, was introduced in the United States in April of 2016. All this is not to say the traditional pacemaker hasn’t been effective for patients, but the wireless pacemaker is a great option for those who need pacing only in one chamber. The post-surgery restrictions are less cumbersome, and replacement is as easy as placing another wireless device via catheter. “The wireless pacemaker is contained within a large catheter device,” Dr. Latacha said. “The actual pacemaker looks like a small AAA battery with four ‘hooks.’ Upon threading the catheter/ pacemaker to the ventricular chamber we
“Just getting to this point (leadless device) of the pacers sensing and adjusting based on your level of activity was a huge leap forward,” Dr. Latacha said. “The first hurdle was getting a device that not only works, but works well with a low risk of complications. We have that now. Who knows what the future holds, but if we can put this pacemaker in both chambers, you expand the device’s capabilities and the number of patients who can benefit.” With this advent of this new technology, Dr. Latacha says the future is very bright for patients who need the medical interventions necessary to live long and healthy lives. “It is an honor and a privilege to specialize in the treatment of this most vital organ,” he said. “The opportunity to mend a broken heart in an age when we have so many tools to both prolong and enhance the lives of our patients is truly remarkable. There is no job I would rather do.”
To watch the video, visit bestcaretoday.com
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CUSTOMIZED CARE FOR
Advanced Orthopedic HEALING
Story by Katina Granger
Jeremy Gallant, MD, performs the IoveraÂŽ procedure.
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Les Graske has been spending a lot of time working hard in the gym – the physical therapy gym at Methodist Physicians Clinic HealthWest. “They’ve worked really well with me on getting my knee straight and making it bend,” said Les, who owns a greenhouse business outside Elk City. "And they are working to make sure I don’t limp. It’s really helped me get better.” Les spent years on her knees, getting her hands dirty and making her plants look beautiful. But time eventually took its toll. She had her right knee replaced in March, and she says the thing she’s looking forward to the most is having the other one done. “I’m aiming for August,” Les said. “I’m so tired of the arthritis pain.”
Relieving Joint Pain
Jon Uggen, MD, is just one of the talented orthopedic surgeons at Methodist Physicians Clinic Orthopedics. He’s seen how debilitating arthritis and joint pain can be for patients. He also knows the fear that can come with a visit to the orthopedic surgeon. “A lot of times patients are afraid to come in because they think they need surgery right away, but that's often not the case,” Dr. Uggen said. “The majority of my patients actually don't need surgery, and we are able to identify the problem and improve the symptoms significantly with our non operative treatments.” An orthopedic surgeon provides a thorough exam and diagnosis to help determine a patient’s treatment options. Those can be surgery – perhaps a hip or knee replacement like Les’ – or other, much less invasive, options. “I always tell my patients we have a lot of tools in our toolbox to get them feeling better,” Dr. Uggen said. “We may offer options such as over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatory medications, or topical creams that can be absorbed into the skin. There are also cortisone injections or lubricating injections known as viscosupplementation. Other options offered
Les Graske works on rehabilitating her knee with Pat Wilson, PT. by our physiatry team can also help with pain and diminish the need for opioid pain relief before and after surgery.”
Technology Tackles the Pain
One of the newest options in the arsenal for pain relief is a treatment known as Iovera®. It’s a cryoablation procedure that is now helping Methodist orthopedic patients through the worst of the pain associated with total knee replacement – often without the need for opioid medications. “Basically we are freezing a couple select nerves in the knee to decrease pain in the joint,” said Jeremy Gallant, MD, a physiatrist at Methodist Physicians Clinic Healthwest. “We are more or less putting the nerves into shock for 30 to 90 days, eliminating or minimizing pain.” Mary Jo Petersen was scheduled for total replacement of both knees in late June. When she arrived for her Iovera treatment with Dr. Gallant a few weeks prior, she was using a cane and said her pain in both knees was at a “10” on the pain scale. “I am an outdoors person and I like to run after my grandkids, but it’s something I just can’t do right now,” said Mary Jo. An hour and a half after her treatment began, Mary Jo walked out of Dr. Gallant’s exam room pain-free for the first time in 20 years. “My pain is at a zero,” said Mary Jo, astonished. “I wanted this because it would help with the pain after my surgery. Now I’m looking forward to it! This feels like a bonus!”
“Our orthopedic surgeons regularly involve us in patient care, whether it’s transferring patient care to us or including us in their care for specialty noninvasive procedures,” said Dr. Gallant. “It’s this whole patient approach and entire spectrum of care, which may include treatments like Iovera, which make the patient experience at Methodist so special.”
An Important Role in Rehabilitation
Whether surgery is part of a patient’s care or not, orthopedic surgeons rely heavily on the team of Methodist physical therapists to help get patients back on their feet. “We often provide patients with exercise programs, whether it’s something they can do at home or formal physical therapy,” said Dr. Uggen. “We have an amazing physical therapy team that's able to coordinate with us after we have the appropriate diagnosis and work on areas that we need to work on. With knees, that means strengthening the muscles around the joint that provide inherent stability and helping alleviate the pain and symptoms.” “Our orthopedic surgeons typically send a patient to us first to see if we can make strides in pain relief without cutting,” said Pat Wilson, PT, a physical therapist at Methodist Physicians Clinic HealthWest. “When we see a patient after surgery, my role is to help them recover from that surgery, stay on track in the healing process and hit those milestones so they can move again without all that pain.” It’s this continuum of care that helps patients like Les take great strides in healing.
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A COMMUNITY RESOURCE
Reimagined A New Emergency Department
Methodist Hospital is partnering with the public to redesign and reimagine its emergency department. The $25 million expansion and renovation project will change the way treatment is delivered and address the community’s growing needs. “I’ve learned in the course of recovery just how much it matters where you are cared for,” said Omaha nursery owner Sean Mulhall. It was one of biggest nights of his life - December 30, 2016. Returning from his usual 3-mile run, telling his wife he just didn’t feel well and moments later, collapsing. It was a heart attack. “Every prayer I knew, I was like, ‘God, please,’” recalls Sean’s wife, Pier. As first responders rushed to save Sean, Pier called a physician friend who said, “You have to take him to Methodist.” Once Sean arrived at the emergency department (ED), cardiologist Michael Dehning, MD, worked quickly to insert a stent and open Sean’s completely clogged left main artery. “They saved my life – purely and simply,” Sean said. More than ever, the Mulhalls are champions for a renovated, expanded and redesigned Methodist ED, a facility that includes more privacy, less waiting and easier access. Some of the new features include:
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Sean Mulhall, and his wife Pier, alongside the Methodist care team that saved his life.
• Expanded geriatric care services for our community’s aging baby boomers
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They saved my life, purely and simply. — Sean Mulhall
• Specialized space for victims of sexual assault, domestic violence and sex trafficking
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• “Safe room” modifications for an increasing number of patients with mental health issues • Faster access to potentially life-saving care with improved parking for incoming ambulances and patients More people are relying on Methodist Hospital for their emergency care than ever before. Patient volumes have increased by 20 percent over the last five years. The Methodist ED underwent its last structural remodel in 1995. The planned expansion and renovation will double the number of patient rooms from 12 to 24. A “fast-track” triage area is included in the plan. The project could begin early next year. Sean and Pier Mulhall are eager to add their voices to the chorus of support. “When I think Methodist, I think life-saving,” Pier says. To learn more, please visit MethodistHospitalFoundation.org
methodisthospitalfoundation.org
The 1891 Society Named for the year in which Methodist Hospital was established, the 1891 Society recognizes the current giving of loyal donors who support the programs and projects of Methodist Hospital Foundation. We thank the following friends who made a gift between January 1 and May 31, 2018.
Founders
Gifts & pledges $100,000 and greater Dr. & Mrs. Kenneth P. Barjenbruch The Dorothy B. Davis Foundation JE Dunn The McGowan Family Methodist Medical Staff
Leaders
Gifts & pledges $50,000 to $99,999 John W. & Nancy Estabrook The Kim Foundation John & Wende Kotouc Midwest Gastrointestinal Associates, PC Tyron A. Alli, MD Alexander B. Bernal, MD Douglas E. Brouillette, MD John J. Cannella III, MD Jason J. Cisler, MD Rebecca A. Ehlers, MD Joshua T. Evans Sr, MD Helen O. Fasanya-Uptagraft, MD Benjamin S. Hall, MD Kimberly S. Harmon, MD Grant F. Hutchins, MD Kathryn E. Hutchins, MD William C. Livingston, DO Thomas R. McGinn, MD Matthew M. McMahon, MD John C. Mitchell II, MD Trevor J. Pearson, MD Kyle D. Rose, DO Edwin C. Schafer, MD Michael E. Schafer, MD Marc A. Scheer, DO Bradley J. Schroeder, MD Brian W. Ward, MD Pepsi Cola Bottling Company
Guardians
Gifts & pledges $10,000 to 49,999 Anesthesia West, PC Chad Bauerly, MD Monte Christo, MD Mark D’Agostino, MD Jill Faraci, MD Tad Freeburg, MD Michael Grubb, MD Carl Heine, MD Gregg Hirz, MD Stephen Hosman, MD Wes Hubka, MD Kent Hultquist, MD Kent Hutton, MD Paul Jacobsen, MD John Lindsey, III, MD Robert Moore, MD
Thomas Ohrt, MD John Peterson, MD Kelli Peterson, MD Hap Pocras, MD Douglas Rennels, MD Chris Robertson, MD Josh Smith, MD Thomas Soma, MD J. Kenneth Tiojanco, MD Mark Wilson, MD Dennis & Cathy Blackman Brian & Carey Hamilton HDR Immanuel Vision Foundation Harry & Gail Koch Jack & Stephanie Koraleski Drs. Joseph & Debra McCaslin Project Pink'd, Inc Scare Away Cancer Dr. & Mrs. Loyd Schultz Estate
Protectors
Gifts & pledges $5,000 to $9,999 Michael & Julie Ahrens Anderson Partners Blackman & Associates PC Cynthia L. Butler Kate & Sandy Dodge Electric Company of Omaha Jeff & Keri Francis Steve & Brenda Goeser The Hawks Foundation Jerry J. Hoban Dr. & Mrs. Michael E. Jacobson Bob & Susan Knapp Dr. & Mrs. Rudolf Kotula Gary & Kathy McConnell Omaha Fashion Week Omaha Lancers Hockey Foundation Donald & Rita Otis Estate Cyndy Peacock Pinnacle Bancorp Dr. & Mrs. William A. Shiffermiller
Friends:
Gifts & pledges $1,000 to $4,999 Jason & Josie Abboud Monte & Kristi Anthis Baird Holm LLP Laura Beth Barr Mogens & Cindy Bay The Fred & Sally Bekins Foundation Glen & Debbie Bennett Matt & Cheryl Bohacek Bo & Elizabeth Borisow Gail & Neil Boston Dr. Jessica Bracken & Joseph Westerhaus Edson & Sally Bridges Bridges Investment Counsel, Inc Jean & Don Brinkman Rose Marie & Larry Brown Nina & Jerry Byrnes CBSHOME Real Estate Jan Cole Colon & Rectal Surgery, Inc. Alan G. Thorson, MD Garnet J. Blatchford, MD Charles A. Ternent, MD M. Shashidharan, MD Jennifer S. Beaty, MD Brian M. Sadowski, MD Zachary H. Torgersen, MD Deborah M. Conley Darcie R. Consbruck Dr. & Mrs. Andrew M. Coughlin
8701 WEST DODGE ROAD, SUITE 450 OMAHA, NE 68114 402-354-4825
Council of Independent Nebraska Colleges Foundation Sheri Cunningham Bill & Susan Cutler Lisa & James Davidson Susan K. Davis Cynthia & Robert Dean Rachelle Y. Demirovic Roy & Gloria Dinsdale Julie K. Donnelly Marge & Jim Eggers Tom & Sue Eiserman Dave & RyAnne Elsesser Todd & Cathy Engle Terri Fitch Shari & John Flowers Ruth L. Freed, PhD Dianne L. Fuhs Virginia Grove Dr. & Mrs. John A. Haggstrom Lilia L. Hansen Harborside Press Jennifer I. Harm Susana I. Harrington Hillcrest Health Services Joshua A. Hite Dr. Kristen Hoffman & Gary Hoffman Kathryn N. Honz, MD Dr. & Mrs. Stephen L. Hosman Holly Huerter-Morgan & Jeff Morgan Dr. & Mrs. Harold R. Huff Dr. & Mrs. Gregory K. Hutteger Jennie L. Jacobs Rev. & Mrs. Daniel R. Johnston Dr. & Mrs. F. William Karrer Mary E. Keitel Kiewit Building Group Charles & Anna Knapp Memorial Trust David & Michelle Koraleski Sue & Kelly Korth Kathy Koslosky Marie & James Kozel Carol Jean Kuhl Janet & Vernon Kuhl Dr. & Mrs. Richard A. Kutilek Kim Lammers Deb & Steve Landon Clark & Emily Lauritzen Alexa Lewis Dan & Deb Lindstrom Shirley A. Mackie Sean McMahon & Tracy Madden-McMahon Stacy & Mark Mandolfo Linda & Mark Mann Don Matson Susan K. Maynes Dr. & Mrs. Patrick J. McCarville Barbara E. McCraw MCL Construction Mary E. McNulty Juli & Kevin Meador Roy M. Meadows Methodist Hospitalists Priyanka Borah, MD Russell Cowles, MD Tamara Doehner, MD Joe Evans, MD Ben Fangman, DO Jamie Fleckenstein, DO Heidi Hausmann, MD Brian Hollis, MD Katherine Hoppes, MD Ty Huebert, MD Kathryn Kersenbrock, MD Bryan Knipe, MD Andrea Marsh, MD
Mathew Miller, MD Heidi Moser, MD Eric Rodrigo, MD Rebecca Runge, MD Abby Shiffermiller, MD Joseph Stolp, DO Kendra Swanson, MD Dr. David & Maria Minderman Cindy & Joseph Mirfield Drs. John & Kathleen Mitchell Drs. Iris & Gary Moore Janice & Michael Morgan Nebraska Cancer Specialists Margaret Block, MD M. Salman Haroon, MD Ralph J. Hauke, MD Timothy K. Huyck, MD Robert M. Langdon, Jr., MD Kirsten M. Leu, MD John M. Longo, MD Nagendra Natarajan, MD Geetha Palaniappan, MD David A. Silverberg, MD Yungpo Bernard Su, MD Stefano R. Tarantolo, MD Peter M. Townley, MD, Emeritus Drs. Lindsay & Matthew Northam Jean M. O'Connor Omaha Central High School Dr. & Mrs. D.R. Owen Dr. & Mrs. William R. Palmer Jacqueline K. Parmenter Arlene M. Perry Diane Persing Nancy Petersen & Dan Agosta Gerard Pfannenstiel Dr. & Mrs. Andrew W. Robertson Kevin & Diane Rochford Chris & Sharlon Rodgers Linda & Jon Roeder Susan & John Rogers Sue & Ron Rohlfs Suzan & Brad Rohrig Debbie L. Russell Sarpy County F.O.P Lodge No. 3 Dr. Pirzada Sattar & Fatima Basith Dr. & Mrs. William R. Schlichtemeier Shari & Jerry Schroeder The Scoular Foundation Security National Bank of Omaha Seline Family Foundation Dr. Linda Snider & Mark Sidwell Gene & Ann Spence Margaret E. Spencer Lisa Sprouse & Michael Taylor Kristine & C. Grant Story Stryker Sustainability Solutions Mitchell L. Swanson Dale & Pat Te Kolste Estate Karen A. Tesina L. B. "Red" & Jann Thomas Dr. & Mrs. Alan G. Thorson Teri F. Tipton U.S. Bank The Vetter Foundation Dr. & Mrs. Ronald L. Wax Anne Thorne Weaver Dr. & Mrs. William D. Weidner Rebecca M. Wester, MD Thomas & Lori Wolfe Brian & Debbie Wood Dr. & Mrs. Richard S. Yates Our friends who wish to remain anonymous.
Summer 2018
15
Nonprofit U.S. Postage PAID Omaha, NE Permit No. 563
An Affiliate of Methodist Health System
8303 Dodge Street Omaha, NE 68114 Summer 2018 Volume 8 – Issue 2
The Meaning of Care magazine is published by Methodist Health System Marketing & Public Relations. Free subscriptions are available by emailing your request to bestcare@nmhs.org.
Senior Director of Marketing Director of Public Relations Writer/Associate Editor Photographer/Videographer Art Director/Photographer
Jenni Stoll Claudia Bohn Katina Granger Daniel Johnson Chris Thompson