SAINT FRANCIS HEALTH SYSTEM | AUGUST 2018
Saint Francis Glenpool Opens and Expands Medical Services in Northeast Oklahoma
Pastoral Care: A Singular Calling Warren Clinic Dermatology Shining a Light on Flashes of Hope
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Contents
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Saint Francis Hospital Receives National Recognition for High Quality
Calendar Saturday, September 29
October 1 – 31
Health Zone at Saint Francis Open House
Warren Clinic Community Flu Vaccination Clinics
5353 East 68th Street
Stay healthy and help prevent the flu by visiting one of the many Warren Clinic community flu vaccination clinics planned in October—no appointment necessary.
9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
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A Singular Calling Department of Religion
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Saint Francis Glenpool Opens and Expands Medical Services in Northeast Oklahoma
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Weathering the Next Flu Season
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Warren Clinic Dermatologists Agree:
Sun Protection is the Best Medicine
This year, the Health Zone at Saint Francis celebrates 35 years as Tulsa's premier, medicallybased fitness facilities. On Saturday, September 29, you're invited to attend a special open house event featuring all that Health Zone has to offer. From facility tours, wellness education sessions, membership specials and prize drawings, this event has something for everyone. Learn more about how the Health Zone can put you on the path to wellness at this free event.
See more information in this issue for a complete listing of clinic dates, times and locations, or visit saintfrancis.com.
For more information, please call 918-494-1671 or visit saintfrancis.com/healthzone.
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Shining a Light on Flashes of Hope
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Stepping Up to the Plate Incorporating Exercise and Nutrition into your Life... the Right Way
a publication of Saint Francis Health System
Letter from Jake Henry Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer As eastern Oklahoma’s only locally owned and operated health system, Saint Francis’ commitment to supporting healthcare in the region has deep and personal roots. The people in this region are our friends, family, co-workers and future. We are steadfast in our pledge to provide, develop and maintain the area’s most comprehensive offering of health and wellness services. In this promise, we have strategically looked to develop more outposts and care centers to give our neighbors in non-metro areas access to primary, specialty and emergency care. The most recent demonstration of our commitment to the regionalization is the new healthplex in Glenpool. Saint Francis Glenpool features eastern Oklahoma’s first freestanding emergency room, a new Warren Clinic and several outpatient services. You can read more about our new healthplex in this issue of Presence. As a Catholic health system, the development and expansion of services and programs targeted to meet specific health needs of our region is integral to accomplishing our broader organizational mission—to extend the presence and healing ministry of Christ. Our mission isn’t an aspirational statement; it is the root of our actions and the goal of our undertakings. Saint Francis Health System’s values give support to our mission. Excellence is one of our organization's core values; in living out this value, we constantly measure and track the quality of care we provide. We are pleased to be recognized for these efforts by being ranked #1 in Oklahoma by U.S. News and World Report. Our commitment to excellence is woven into everything we do—from the highest quality bedside care and the state’s most comprehensive network of services to maintaining the area’s premier medical facilities and campuses—we take pride in setting the standard for healthcare within the region. My best regards,
Saint Francis Health System Board of Directors John-Kelly C. Warren, Chairman Judy Kishner, Vice-Chair Jake Henry Jr. Michael Case Michael Cooke, J.D. Brent Dennis, M.D. William R. Lissau Charles McEntee, M.D. Sanjay Meshri Debbie Zinke
Saint Francis Health System Executive Council Jake Henry Jr.
President and Chief Executive Officer, Saint Francis Health System
Barry Steichen
Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer, Saint Francis Health System
Eric Schick
Executive Vice President/Chief Financial Officer, Saint Francis Health System
Mark Frost, M.D.
Senior Vice President/Medical Affairs, Saint Francis Health System
Tom Neff
Senior Vice President/Strategic Planning and Corporate Business Development, Saint Francis Health System
Lynn Sund
Administrator, Saint Francis Hospital and Chief Nurse Executive/ Senior Vice President, Saint Francis Health System
Charley Trimble
Senior Vice President, Quality
Mike Lissau
Senior Vice President, General Counsel
Collin Henry
Vice President, Warren Clinic Operations and Recruitment
David Weil
Administrator, Saint Francis Hospital South and Senior Vice President, Saint Francis Health System
Jake Henry Jr. President and Chief Executive Officer, Saint Francis Health System
Tony Young
Administrator, Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee and Senior Vice President, Saint Francis Health System
Michele Keeling
Administrator, Vice President, Laureate Psychiatric Clinic and Hospital Saint Francis Health System
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Beads of Courage: To Have and to Hold By using colorful beads as meaningful symbols of courage and hope along a child’s treatment journey, Beads of Courage is a worldwide program that helps more than 60,000 children in eight countries record, tell and own their stories. Each strand of beads is as unique as the child who has earned it. A bead is “earned” for every milestone that a child faces during their treatment journey at The Children’s Hospital at Saint Francis. Representing a different hospital experience, the multicolored beads depict animals, favorite foods, holidays and much more—as well as provide something tangible the child can use to tell about their experience during, and long after, treatment.
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No Rainy Day Blues at Camp STRONG Due to an unseasonably cool and rainy day in early June, campers at Camp STRONG put aside their fishing poles and swimming gear and turned to fun activities of another sort. The kids—aged six to 18—tried their hand at a variety of indoor activities such as painting and making campfire bread. Camp STRONG is a very special place where kids diagnosed with cancer or heart conditions can enjoy normal camp activities with trained counselors. Hosted by Saint Francis Health System and The Children’s Hospital at Saint Francis, Camp STRONG is held every summer at Shepherd’s Fold Ranch near Avant, Oklahoma. At Camp STRONG, there are no shots, tests or procedures. Rather, it’s a place packed with fun activities, including karate lessons, fly fishing and swimming—plus the opportunity to make some new friends along the way. In essence, Camp STRONG is a place where kids can just be kids—enjoying some good, old-fashioned summer camp fun. For more information about Camp STRONG, please contact The Children’s Hospital Foundation at Saint Francis at 918-502-6761.
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Ahead of the Curb Saint Francis Health System is pleased to serve as a sponsor of Tulsa’s newest bike-sharing program, This Machine, which offers rent-on-demand bicycles around downtown. This revolutionary smart bike-sharing system features 160 bikes and 25 stations throughout downtown and along Route 66. Future plans include adding more bikes and stations, as well as expanding into other areas of the city. Rental options include a perride rate (at $2 for 30 minutes), along with three-day, monthly and annual memberships. So, why not give it a try? Now is the time to step away from your automobile, engage in your city’s vital environment—all while treating yourself to a little healthy exercise. For more information and a location map of the bike kiosks, please visit https://thismachine. bcycle.com/.
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Saint Francis Hospital Receives National Recognition for High Quality Care
Saint Francis Health System is pleased to announce that Saint Francis Hospital has been recognized as one of the top hospitals in Oklahoma by U.S. News & World Report.
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The magazine’s annual Best Hospital survey ranked the hospital as #1 for providing high quality care with several key clinical areas listed in the high-performing category. The annual U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals rankings, now in its 29th year, are designed to assist patients and physicians in making informed decisions about where to receive care for challenging health conditions or for common elective procedures. This year, Saint Francis Hospital was recognized as high performing for treatment in the following four clinical areas of: • heart failure; • colon cancer surgery; • chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD); and • nephrology.
The U.S. News Best Hospitals methodologies in most areas of care are based largely or entirely on objective measures such as risk-adjusted survival and readmission rates, volume, patient experience, patient safety and quality of nursing, among other care-related indicators. “Excellence is one of our organization's core values; in living out this value, we constantly measure and track the quality of care we provide. We are pleased to be recognized for these efforts by U.S. News & World Report,” said Jake Henry Jr., president and chief executive officer of Saint Francis Health System. “Our commitment to excellence is woven into everything we do—from the highest quality bedside care and the most comprehensive network of services in the region to maintaining the area’s premier medical facilities and
campuses—we take pride in setting the standard for healthcare within the region.” Along with the recognition from U.S. News & World Report, Saint Francis Hospital was also honored to receive recognition of our commitment to excellence by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). For the first time, Saint Francis Hospital has been rated as a four-star hospital—the highest rating of eastern Oklahoma’s large hospitals. The annual CMS Star ratings, available online via Medicare.gov, illustrate specific hospital performance in more than 50 quality metrics in seven key areas. These include: Safety, Readmissions, Patient Experience, Effectiveness of Care, Timeliness of Care, Mortality and Efficient Use of Medical Imaging. In addition to the star rating, hospitals also receive a performance
rating for each of the seven categories placing it above, same or below the national average. Saint Francis Hospital was ranked above the national average. “In my opinion, when awards like these are bestowed to a hospital, they are really being given to the people who work within the hospital’s walls,” Mr. Henry said. “I am extremely proud and thankful to the women and men of Saint Francis for their commitment to excellence and dedication to our mission.” For more information on the U.S. News & World Report rankings, please visit health.usnews.com.
“Our commitment to excellence is woven into everything we do— from the highest quality bedside care and the most comprehensive network of services in the region to maintaining the area’s premier medical facilities and campuses— we take pride in setting the standard for healthcare within the region.” Jake Henry Jr. President and CEO, Saint Francis Health System
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A Singular Calling Department of Religion: Upholding Saint Francis Health System’s mission of
“extending the presence and healing ministry of Christ in all we do”
The Spiritual Aspect of Healing
According to Saint Francis’ department of religion staff members, the beauty of their calling is never knowing how God will lead them in serving patients in need.
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Their work also means never being able to anticipate what each new day will bring—simply because every day is different from the one before it. Their days begin in much the same way—with a review of the latest listing of patients they are assigned to visit. However, from that point on, they never quite know what to expect when they knock on the door of a patient’s room or report for duty at their appointed station. “As I head to work, my husband often asks what I’ve got going for the day,” says staff member Lynne Reyna. “My reply is always, ‘I’ll let you know when I get home!’ That’s because we truly never know where God will lead us during our work and that’s also what keeps us coming back day after day, year after year.”
An intrinsic part of providing pastoral care is having a keen understanding that each person’s needs are as unique as they are. “In all situations, we let patients and family members take the lead on how we can best support them. I believe it is important for people to understand we are not here to proselytize or convert them,” says Sister Mary Nika Schaumber, director, department of religion. “Rather, our role is to do all we can to bring the healing presence of Jesus Christ to those in need. Regardless of religious affiliation, if someone needs support or simply wants someone to talk to, we are here to help. The spiritual aspect is such an important part of enabling a person to heal and we feel truly blessed to be with patients during these times.”
Part of the Team Coming from diverse backgrounds and varying walks of life, the department of religion staff is a tight-knit group of people who follow their hearts and souls with every deed and action. Ensuring there is a pastoral care presence across the health system requires teamwork and flexibility—a commitment the dedicated team is more than willing to provide. Since each staff member is assigned a regular hospital unit and/or a regional facility, he or she becomes a familiar face and a trusted source of comfort. Thomas Mefford, whose post is the Saint Francis Trauma Emergency Center (TEC), provides support and comfort to patients and family members in a fast-paced and emotionally-charged environment, and on some occasions, to TEC staff members as well. “People may not realize it, but the doctors, nurses and other staff require support and comfort too. Since they pour their hearts and souls into stabilizing, and often saving patients’ lives, they rarely take time for themselves,” he says. “We help them by being there in a very special and holistic way.”
“God has a way of filling us up when we are at our very lowest.”
Total Fulfillment Invariably, being with patients and families during times of anxiety and uncertainty brings deep sadness. Yet, there are also rewarding moments of joy. “God has a way of filling us up when we are at our very lowest,” says staff member Monica Skrzypczak. “For instance, there have been occasions when I’ve run into a patient many years later. They remember me and want to share their stories of how their life is going. Knowing that I am serving God and touching others in such a profound way is complete and total fulfillment.” Serving as a pastoral care provider can indeed take a toll on one’s soul. Yet, staff members agree that it’s the countless moments of affirmation such as these that make it all worth it. “There’s no question it can be tough at times. But, we also witness many moments of joy and recovery,” says Lynne Reyna. “Being there at pivotal times in a person’s journey is a sacred window into life.”
Saint Francis Department of Religion Catholic priests, sisters, chaplains and other staff members make up the staff of the department of religion at Saint Francis. They work closely with local ministers and rabbis to meet the spiritual needs of all patients and their families. Saint Francis Health System offers three chapels across its campuses in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Visitors of all faiths are welcome to reflect and pray—including patients, members of their families and hospital employees. To learn more about our chapel locations and Mass times, please call 918-494-1140.
Additional roles of mission support provided by the department of religion include: • • • • •
Xavier Medical Clinic Mission, Vision and Values committee Ethics committee Special recognition ceremonies Blessing of the Hands
• LifeShare of Oklahoma (transplant donor services) • Saint Francis Parish Nurse Program • Saint Francis Hospice
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SAINT FRANCIS GLENPOOL OPENS AND EXPANDS MEDICAL SERVICES IN NORTHEAST OKLAHOMA Over the past couple of years, those living near or traveling on Highway 75 South near Glenpool have had a front-row seat to the construction of Saint Francis Health System’s new emergency center and healthplex.
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Phase by phase, brick by brick, the Saint Francis Glenpool project signals a new era of improved healthcare access within the community and surrounding area. Conveniently located at the southeast corner of Highway 75 and 151st Street South, Saint Francis Glenpool is a two-story, 49,000 square-foot facility that provides the area’s first freestanding emergency center. The term “freestanding” is utilized in this case because the emergency room (ER) is not physically connected to a hospital. In addition to emergency care, this new location will provide outpatient imaging services, including X-ray, ultrasound, CT, bone density screening and mammography as well as a laboratory services. Warren Clinic is also opening an outpatient physician office on site for internal medicine, pediatrics and OB/GYN patients.
MEETING THE HEALTH NEEDS OF A GROWING COMMUNITY
"WE ARE PARTICULARLY PLEASED TO OPEN THIS FACILITY IN GLENPOOL—A CITY WHOSE RESIDENTS HAVE LONG LOOKED TO SAINT FRANCIS FOR THEIR CARE, BUT NOW, WILL NOT NEED TO LOOK AS FAR" – JAKE HENRY JR. PRESIDENT AND CEO,
SAINT FRANCIS HEALTH SYSTEM
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This new medical facility not only fills a gap in services for the Glenpool area, it provides added convenience for residents in neighboring communities such as Jenks, Sapulpa, Mounds, Kiefer, Beggs and Bixby. Saint Francis Glenpool’s freestanding emergency center is the first-of-its-kind in the region to support “clinical integration”— the progression from pre-care provided by doctors, urgent care centers, emergency centers—to acute care (hospital care), to aftercare (skilled nursing facilities, rehabilitation facilities and home care). “Saint Francis has a long history of being the first to bring cutting-edge healthcare and services to our community,” says Jake Henry Jr., president and chief executive officer of Saint Francis Health System. “As we open the doors of the first freestanding emergency room in northeastern Oklahoma, it serves as a continuation of Saint Francis Health System’s tradition of innovation. We are particularly pleased to open this facility in Glenpool—a city whose residents have long looked to Saint Francis for their care, but now, will not need to look as far.”
CERTIFIED OUTPATIENT EMERGENCY CARE CLOSE TO HOME “The new freestanding emergency center within Saint Francis Glenpool is unique in that it will offer residents a similar clinical level of outpatient emergency care that is available at Saint Francis Hospital South,” says Todd Schuster, vice president, Saint Francis Glenpool. “Fully staffed by licensed emergency room physicians, nurses and staff, and additional clinical resources, the center will provide a higher level of care than what is available at an urgent care clinic.”
KEY FEATURES OF THE NEW SAINT FRANCIS GLENPOOL FACILITY: W 151ST ST S
HWY 75
Level IV trauma center and emergency department with eight (8) exam rooms and one (1) trauma bay. The center will be open 24/7/365 and staffed by board-certified emergency medicine providers Full-service laboratory services Saint Francis Breast Health Services – 3D screening mammography Imaging services that include X-ray, CT, ultrasound and bone density scanning
LOCATION INFORMATION Saint Francis Glenpool
Saint Francis Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation— four (4) treatment rooms and a modality room for occupational, speech and physical rehabilitation services
140 West 151st Street South (near Highway 75 and 151st Street exit) 918-321-7000
A new Warren Clinic physician office location providing patients with internal medicine, pediatrics and OB/GYN care
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WEATHERING THE NEXT FLU SEASON Just because we hear about the flu season year in and year out, doesn’t mean we can ignore the serious risk it can impose on the health of a community. The 2017-18 flu season was one for the record books, with high numbers of cases of influenza-like illness, hospitalization rates and deaths from flu complications reported in Oklahoma and nationwide. According to recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people should receive the vaccine annually to protect themselves and others against the illness. It’s also important to remember that everyone six months and older, and especially those who are at high-risk for flu complications—young children, pregnant mothers, senior citizens and those with chronic health conditions— should be vaccinated against the flu.
WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT TO GET A FLU SHOT?
FLU Q&A WITH DR. CHELSEA BERGES Family medicine physician, Warren Clinic McAlester
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“Vaccines not only protect the person receiving them—they also protect others around them from possible exposure, thus limiting the number of people who may spread the flu. Clinicians often refer to this as ‘herd immunity.’ The more people in a community who are vaccinated against the flu means the chance of it spreading to others is less. Remember, it only takes one infectious person to expose countless others.”
FIGHT THE FLU. Get vaccinated.
WHAT ARE SOME TIPS OR ADVICE YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE IN ORDER TO HELP PEOPLE AVOID THE FLU? “Make sure you practice good hand hygiene—using soap and water and washing for a minimum of one-and-a-half to two minutes. If you begin to feel ill, avoid exposing others until you are feeling better. Also, be aware of your surroundings and others who may be ill in order to avoid exposure. According to the CDC, you can catch or spread the flu up to six feet away from someone by sneezing, coughing or even just talking.”
IN REGARD TO THE UPCOMING FLU SEASON, SHOULD WE ANTICIPATE ANYTHING CLOSE TO LAST YEAR’S EPIC FLU SEASON? “The World Health Organization (WHO) and other agencies meet multiple times a year to look at the strains of viruses that are circulating. With this data, they predict which virus strains are most likely to be major players in the influenza season and create vaccines designed to protect against those strains. While their predictions are not always 100% correct, the vaccines still protect those who get the flu from these particular strains, as well as similar strains of virus.”
WARREN CLINIC TO OFFER ANNUAL FLU VACCINATION CLINICS Protect yourself against the flu this year. Warren Clinic is offering convenient flu vaccination clinics throughout the community during the month of October.
WHAT IS A “HIGH DOSE” FLU VACCINATION AND WHO SHOULD RECEIVE IT? “These flu shots—specifically designed for patients 65 years of age and up—contain a higher dose of the antigen used to stimulate better immune response, thus enabling the patient to fight the flu more effectively. This vaccine is used to counteract aging immune systems that cannot fight infections as well as in the younger years. Warren Clinic is pleased to offer high-dose Quadrivalent vaccines for patients over the age of 65.”
FOR MORE ONLINE RESOURCES AND DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT FLU, PLEASE VISIT WWW.FLU.GOV.
Warren Clinic Tower
Warren Clinic – Springer Building
6600 South Yale
6160 South Yale
October 1 – 5 October 8 – 11 October 15 – 18
October 4 October 10 October 17 October 24
8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
October 12 October 19 October 22 – 26
8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
8:00 a.m. – noon
7858 South Olympia
October 29 – 31
October 10
1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Health Zone at Saint Francis
Warren Clinic Broken Arrow – Elm
5353 East 68th Street
2950 South Elm
Flu vaccinations for children will be available at the various Warren
October 1 – 5
October 16 October 17
Clinic pediatric office locations.
October 8 – 12
The cost of flu vaccinations is covered by most insurance plans; high dose vaccinations are available for those aged 65 and older.
1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Warren Clinic – Tulsa Hills
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
7:30 a.m. – noon
Warren Clinic – Sand Springs Warren Clinic Broken Arrow – Kenosha
102 South Main Street
1801 East Kenosha
October 24
October 3
1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
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WARREN CLINIC DERMATOLOGISTS AGREE
SUN PROTECTION
IS THE BEST MEDICINE
While dermatology specialists can help patients with skin conditions from head to toe, it’s truly up to you to cover up with sunscreen every time you venture out in the sun.
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Protecting Your Skin Two critically important components in protecting yourself—and your kids— against sun damage and skin cancer include the consistent use of sunscreen and an annual skin checkup at the dermatologist’s office. “It’s very simple, sunscreen—always and often—with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 50 or above,” says dermatologist, Dr. John Ashley. “And, if you don’t care for sunscreen lotions (men, I’m talking to you), there are easier to apply options such as sprays. Ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) clothing and hats (particularly wide brim hats) are also great for protecting your skin from the sun.” Dr. Ashley continues, “While annual dermatology checkups are very important, so are self-exams—not just in the summer, but year-round. If you notice any spot that
is changing in size, shape or color and does not heal on its own, it’s time to come in and see us. If it turns out to be some form of skin cancer, catching it early can make all the difference in the world in the outcome.” In addition to Dr. Ashley, the Warren Clinic Dermatology staff includes Mohs surgeon, Dr. Johnathan J. Ledet, as well as physician assistants, Taylor Eves, PA-C, and Tara Linville, PA-C. As a board-certified specialist, Dr. Ledet is specially trained in Mohs micrographic surgery, which is widely considered the most effective technique for treating many basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas—the two most common types of skin cancer. The procedure is also occasionally recommended for treating melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer.
Warren Clinic Dermatology providers: Tara Linville, PA-C, John Ashley, M.D., Johnathan J. Ledet, M.D. and Taylor Eves, PA-C
More About Mohs The most obvious difference between Mohs surgery and routine excisional surgery is that Mohs is done in stages while you wait for lab results—thus allowing the removal of all cancerous cells at a 98% cure rate, while sparing healthy tissue and leaving the smallest possible scar. The lab work is done immediately on-site, rather than the tissue sample being sent to a lab for results days later. Mohs surgery is especially useful for skin cancers that: • have a high risk of recurrence or that have recurred after previous treatment; • are located in areas where you want to preserve as much healthy tissue as possible, such as around the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, hands, feet and groin; • have borders that are hard to define; and/or • are large or aggressive.
Highest Cure Rate, Lowest Recurrence Rate “There is a huge need for Mohs surgery, particularly in this part of the country where people spend a lot of time out in the sun at area lakes, etc.,” Dr. Ledet says. “Mohs is a safe and effective outpatient procedure that is performed on-site and in real-time. Because of Mohs, even when I must give a patient the news that they have skin cancer, I can often quickly follow-up with the good news that I can take care of it surgically.”
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It’s Unanimous When asked why they chose the field of dermatology in the first place, it’s obvious both Dr. Ashley and Dr. Ledet couldn’t be more pleased with the specialty they chose. “I have been practicing dermatology at Saint Francis since 1992, and whether it’s psoriasis, acne or some other type of skin condition, I’ve always enjoyed helping people feel better about themselves,” Dr. Ashley says. “Some people feel stigmatized by these conditions and, as a result, feel pretty bad about themselves. As I treat these conditions and see the appearance of their skin improve, I also see our patients’ confidence and happiness levels improve too. It’s great to know I’ve had a hand in that.” As for Dr. Ledet: “Practicing dermatology is like figuring out a puzzle. It’s so interesting because different skin types react in different ways. As dermatologists, we treat people of all ages—from newborns, to those who are well into their later years,” he says. “We have the opportunity to really connect with people—especially patients we see on a regular basis. We get to hear their stories and learn about their lives.” With more than 3,000 different diseases to diagnose and treat, Warren Clinic Dermatology’s staff is committed to helping improve the health and appearance of your skin, hair and nails.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with Warren Clinic Dermatology, please visit warrenclinic.com or call 918-488-6688.
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Sun Safety for All Ages Did you know the majority of sun damage actually occurs before the age of 18? Following are some tips to protect not only your children’s skin, but yours, as well: • Seek the shade, especially between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. • Avoid sunburn as much as possible. • Avoid tanning and UV tanning beds. • Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses. • Every day, use a broad spectrum (UVA/ UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher. For extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant, broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher. • Discard sunscreen that is past its expiration date. • Apply one ounce (two tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.
• Keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreens should be used on babies over the age of six months. • Examine your skin head-to-toe every month for any changes. • See your physician every year for a professional skin exam. • Be extra careful around surfaces that reflect the sun’s rays, like snow, sand, water and concrete. • Wear sun protection gear such as a hat with a wide brim and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes. Sunglasses protect your eyes from UV rays and reduce the risk of cataracts and other eye problems. Wrap-around sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays offer the best protection by blocking UV rays from the side. • Talk to your teens about avoiding tanning, especially before special events like homecoming, prom or spring break. UV exposure adds up over time. Every time you tan, you increase your risk of getting skin cancer.
Shining a Light on Flashes of Hope
Lights! Camera! Action! and, so the magic begins. Once a month, Flashes of Hope is a program that captures lasting images of courage, beauty and dignity by preserving a special moment in time for patients of The Children’s Hospital at Saint Francis and their families.
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By focusing on the Shining a Light onchild—and Flashes of Hope putting cancer in the background— Flashes of Hope raises funds to accelerate a cure for children’s cancer, while honoring the unique life and memories of a child fighting cancer. As the proud sponsor of the Tulsa chapter of Flashes of Hope, The Children’s Hospital at Saint Francis joins in honoring the courage of children with cancer—by capturing a moment in time and funding research so they will have the chance to create a lifetime of memories.
Changing How Kids See Themselves Founded in 2001 by the parents of a child with cancer, Flashes of Hope is a volunteer-driven organization focused on children's cancer. Volunteers include Tulsa area photographers, makeup artists and hairdressers—each donating their skills and time to partake in this rewarding endeavor. With chapters in 55 cities, the program photographs more than 50% of the children annually diagnosed in the U.S. Since its founding, Flashes of Hope has photographed more than 65,000 children of all ages at hospitals and camps across the country.
An Alliance of Caring When Krista Perry relocated to Tulsa five years ago, she knew exactly what she had to do. “Previously, I’d lived in Orlando, Florida, and had volunteered as a makeup artist for Flashes of Hope in that community. When I moved to Tulsa and learned it didn’t exist here, I knew we had to change that,” she says. It wasn’t long before an ideal partnership was formed when Perry reached out to The Children’s Hospital at Saint Francis. “I immediately knew The Children’s Hospital at Saint Francis would be the perfect fit for Tulsa’s Flashes of Hope,” she says. “From the beginning, the teamwork and collaboration between The Children’s Hospital at Saint Francis and me and my husband (Dustin) as the Tulsa directors has been effortless.”
“Being pampered and receiving personal attention from hair and makeup artists—and then being professionally photographed—is probably the last thing they ever expected in the middle of their treatment journey.” –Elizabeth DeMarco, Child Life Specialist
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A Wonderful Gift Elizabeth DeMarco, Child Life Specialist at The Children’s Hospital at Saint Francis couldn’t agree more. “From day one, we’ve been excited to offer this wonderful gift to our patients and their families,” she says. “Being pampered and receiving personal attention from hair and makeup artists—and then being professionally photographed—is probably the last thing they ever expected in the middle of their treatment journey. And, yet it’s often those who are the most timid and resistant at first, who end up loving the whole experience the most. It’s such a wonderful thing to see!” Since the Tulsa chapter was formed in 2015, more than 200 kids and their family members have been photographed. Every month, about 10 to 12 patients and their families are scheduled to have their photos professionally taken. The entire experience is personalized—from ensuring the background music is the child’s absolute favorite, to encouraging everyone to wear the colors and clothes they like best. “Every month, I look so forward to the Flashes of Hope photo sessions. It’s always a lot of fun for everyone,” DeMarco says. “I try to explain to the kids and their families what’s in store, but they don’t really know what to expect until they are there in the moment. Once they see these amazing photographers and hair and makeup artists focusing on them, they just can’t contain their excitement and their personalities start to shine through.”
“She’s been talking about it all morning, and although she was a bit nervous at first, it’s obvious that didn’t last for long. We were happy to participate in Flashes of Hope and want to do all we can to spread awareness about pediatric cancer,” says Hazel’s mom, Kristin. “It occurred to me that we don’t really have many photos with just the two of us because I’m usually the one taking the photos. Well, now we do! It means so much to have these beautiful photos to always have and to cherish forever.” For more information about Flashes of Hope, please visit flashesofhope.org/chapters/Tulsa.
Every Picture Tells a Story Once a Flashes of Hope session begins and the camera focuses in on the young patient, each story that unfolds is uniquely that child’s very own. For five-year-old Paul, his recent Flashes of Hope session in July was his second time around. Back in 2015, he was the first patient photographed at The Children’s Hospital on behalf of Tulsa’s Flashes of Hope program. His initial photographs were taken shortly after his diagnosis. His recent photos told a different story altogether, evidencing a bigger and much stronger boy who was just one month shy of his final treatment. “Both of these photo shoots have been so meaningful to Paul and our family because they chronicle his brave journey—from beginning to end. It’s something for which we will always be grateful,” says Paul’s mom, Kendra. As for six-year-old Hazel, the July Flashes of Hope photo shoot was her first—but, you’d never know it. All aglow with a big, pink bow and wall-to-wall smiles, it was apparent she was having the time of her life. Hamming it up a bit, Hazel asserted one “can never make too many silly faces.”
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Fueling Your Body Pre-Workout
For some time now, you’ve considered challenging yourself to either start or step up your fitness program—or maybe even trying something new. Getting out there and “just doing it,” can be daunting, right? Yet, thanks to Saint Francis board-certified sports dietitian, Sloan Taylor, it’s a journey you can tackle with tools and know-how to ensure safe and efficient workouts every step of the way.
According to Taylor, one of the key things to understand is when and how to fuel your body properly before and after exercise. “The timing of this is crucial and depends on the intensity and duration of your workout,” she says. “Because, in order to get stronger, you must be able to complete your workout—and if you are not eating or drinking enough, you simply won’t be able to complete the workout to the best of your ability.” Taylor continues: “If you want to do something at a low intensity and of short duration (say a 30-minute walk), you don’t really have to eat anything beforehand. Yet, for something high intensity and longer in duration, it’s a different story. Thirty minutes before an intensive workout such as a long run (for an hour or more), it’s important to eat something that will leave the stomach quickly and become absorbed into the bloodstream. The last thing you want is a ‘sloshing stomach’ during a workout. And, you definitely want to avoid heavy, high-fat foods prior to a workout since they often take up to four hours to leave the stomach. I recommend carbs like a dry piece of toast (if you pursue carbs in your diet), yogurt, a smoothie, cereal or fruit.”
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Incorporating Exercise and Nutrition into Your Life... the Right Way
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate! In terms of fluids, hydration is an issue with which one must be proactive. In other words, avoid dehydration at all costs. “Think ahead and be well hydrated before a workout. Expect fluid loss during any intense or long workout,” Taylor says. “Whether or not your workout is high intensity, it is absolutely essential to hydrate if it’s of long duration. Just remember, the longer you are exercising, the more fluid you will lose.” An easy rule of thumb regarding your body’s daily fluid needs: Simply take your body weight and divide it by two. For instance, if you weigh 140 pounds, you need 70 ounces of fluid a day.
You're Invited to an Open House! Health Zone at Saint Francis Saturday, September 29, 2018 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
The Health Zone at Saint Francis, Tulsa's premier medically-based
Sports Drinks — Yes or No?
Happily Ever After — Inside and Out
The short answer is yes. The overall purpose of sports drinks is to replace your body’s electrolytes and fluids. This is especially important during long and high-intensity workouts in hot, humid conditions. During workouts of this type, you are going to lose salt. “Contrary to popular belief, we lose 16 times more salt than potassium during intense workouts—and, yes, salt is something our bodies desperately need,” Taylor says. “What we don’t want people to do is drink fluid replacement drinks all day long without purpose or intent.”
And, something else Sloan Taylor wants to get out there—the innumerable benefits exercise provides within the body. “Incorporating a fitness program into our lives shouldn’t be just about vanity and how we look on the outside. Exercise is meant for internal and cardiovascular fitness,” she says. “I promote leading long, healthy lives. If you happen to be in line for a stroke or heart attack in the years ahead, you will be able to recover and regain your lifestyle much more quickly if you’ve exercised regularly and made wise food choices. In addition, incorporating exercise and proper nutrition into your lifestyle not only makes you healthier inside and out—but also goes a long way towards elevating your mood and state of mind.” So, how about doing yourself a favor? Enjoying the benefits of an active, healthy life is yours for the asking—and once you do, your body will be ever so thankful.
fitness facility, is hosting an Open House event on Saturday, September 29, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The Health Zone offers a wide variety of exercise equipment, two indoor saltwater pools as well as fitness classes and programs for all ages. The event is free and features tours of the facility, educational presentations, a farmers market and more. Health Zone's membership fee is waived for those joining during the open house event.
For more information, please call 918-494-1671 or visit saintfrancis.com/healthzone.
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6161 South Yale Avenue • Tulsa, Oklahoma 74136
a publication of Saint Francis Health System
MISSION
To extend the presence and healing ministry of Christ in all we do
VISION
Saint Francis Health System will be the leading integrated Catholic healthcare system providing high quality, comprehensive and innovative care across our regional continuum of services.
VALUES EXCELLENCE Promoting high standards of service and performance DIGNITY Respecting each person as an inherently valuable member of the human community and as a unique expression of life JUSTICE Advocating for systems and structures that are attuned to the needs of the vulnerable and disadvantaged and that promote a sense of community among all persons INTEGRITY Encouraging honesty, consistency and predictability in all relationships STEWARDSHIP Ensuring prudent use of talents and resources in a collaborative manner
SAINT FRANCIS HOSPITAL | THE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL AT SAINT FRANCIS | WARREN CLINIC | HEART HOSPITAL AT SAINT FRANCIS | SAINT FRANCIS HOSPITAL SOUTH | LAUREATE PSYCHIATRIC CLINIC AND HOSPITAL SAINT FRANCIS HOSPITAL MUSKOGEE | SAINT FRANCIS HOSPITAL VINITA | SAINT FRANCIS BROKEN ARROW | SAINT FRANCIS CANCER CENTER | SAINT FRANCIS HOME CARE COMPANIES | SAINT FRANCIS GLENPOOL
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