A publication of Saint Francis Health System | Summer 2020
SAINT FRANCIS HEALTH SYSTEM
2019 COMMUNITY BENEFIT REPORT
Contents
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Saint Francis Health System 2019 Community Benefit Report
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In Prayer and Service
28
2019 Saint Francis Health System Values Awards Winners
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Cardiac Services Extended
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Presence in a Pandemic
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Keep Yourself and Your Neighbors Safe
Saint Francis’ Religious Sisters of Mercy
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Moving Forward
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Warren Clinic Specialty Spotlight
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Virtual Urgent Care Across the Region
with Facts over Fear
General Surgery
Throughout the Region Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee
Employees Plant Seeds for Hope and Healing
a publication of Saint Francis Health System
Letter from Jake Henry Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer I look forward to this issue of Presence every year. Community benefit is a hallmark of Catholic healthcare and this annual report provides us the opportunity to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the women and men of the Saint Francis Health System for the roles they play in this community-benefitting organization. This year, the concept of community benefit reaches far beyond the regulatory definition. This year, I believe one of the greatest benefits we provided to our community was our presence---the presence of our people and the presence of our healing ministry. During times of stress and uncertainty, humans instinctively look for a source of reassurance or comfort. Over the past four months, I hope that our patients, their families and the region found some peace or consolation in knowing that the state’s largest and leading health system was here---and prepared---should they need us.
Saint Francis Health System Board of Directors John-Kelly C. Warren, Chairman Judy Kishner, Vice-Chair Jake Henry Jr. Michael Case Michael Cooke, JD Ashley Gable, MD Reverend Gary Kastl William R. Lissau Charles McEntee, MD
Saint Francis Health System Executive Council Jake Henry Jr.
President and Chief Executive Officer, Saint Francis Health System
Barry Steichen
Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Saint Francis Health System
This year we celebrate the 60th anniversary of the health system. Since our founding in 1960, we have been through many hard times---none quite as widespread and globally impactful as the one that we have experienced; however, our focus on planning, doing the right thing and using our mission and values as our true north should continue to serve this organization well.
Eric Schick
We will take each challenge as it comes and evolve as necessary to be who our communities need us to be. As the state’s healthcare leader, people have high expectations of Saint Francis. Fortunately, we set equally high expectations for ourselves. And when the ‘new normal’ becomes just the normal, I am confident we will be able to look back at all of the ups and downs of these uncertain times and know that we did all we could to meet and exceed the expectations our patients, peers and publics have of us.
Senior Vice President, General Counsel, Saint Francis Health System
I want to take one more opportunity to articulate and express my deepest gratitude to the women and men of the Saint Francis Health System. We have always had a special culture here; but through this time of concern, confusion and crisis, I have seen our people come together like never before. I am proud to call them colleagues; and, now more than ever, I am proud to be part of this great ministry. Warm regards,
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Saint Francis Health System
Mark Frost, MD
Senior Vice President, Medical Affairs, Saint Francis Health System
Mike Lissau, JD Tom Neff
Senior Vice President, Strategic Planning and Corporate Business Development, Saint Francis Health System
Charley Trimble
Senior Vice President, Quality, Saint Francis Health System
Doug Williams
Senior Vice President, Saint Francis Health System and Administrator, Saint Francis Hospital
Collin Henry, JD
Vice President, Saint Francis Health System, Warren Clinic Operations and Physician Recruitment
Michele Keeling
Vice President, Saint Francis Health System and Administrator, Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee
Todd Schuster
Vice President, Saint Francis Health System and Administrator, Saint Francis Hospital South
Jake Henry Jr. President and Chief Executive Officer, Saint Francis Health System Saint Francis Health System
presence
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A 345-mph Display of Gratitude Cheering, waving and a fair share of tears greeted an Air National Guard flyover above Oklahoma hospitals on April 30. Although the four F-16 jets spent mere seconds flying over Saint Francis Hospital, Saint Francis Hospital South and Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee, the spectacular show of support to healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic left a lasting impression.
presence in pictures 2
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Mission Control The beating heart of Saint Francis Health System’s fight against COVID-19 is the emergency operations command center. Staffed 24/7, the overall purpose of this specially designated center is to direct and streamline the health system’s planning and response measures at each location and point of care. Since the onset of COVID-19 within our community, the health system’s administrators and clinical leadership have tirelessly worked together in tracking key data such as the number of positive or suspected COVID-19 patients, lab testing, hospital capacity, ventilator use and supplies of personal protective equipment.
Photo courtesy: Ian Maule, Tulsa World
presence in pictures Saint Francis Health System
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About the Cover The name of this publication, Presence, has never been as poignant as it is right now. The past four months have illuminated the essentiality of the presence of hospitals and healthcare providers across the world. It is hard to fathom what life would be like in a pandemic-affected world without a dedicated healthcare workforce. When faced with this crisis the healthcare community didn’t skip a beat in responding to the needs of the sick and suffering. The cover of this issue showcases the armor the women and men of Saint Francis Health System wore in the fight against COVID-19. Scrubs, white coats, tops and jackets were collected from across the health system, representing the depth, breadth and far-reaching scope of this ministry. Behind each logo on these scrubs or behind every badge on a blazer is the heart of our brand. To the women and men of Saint Francis Health System, thank you for being the heart behind our logo and the manifestation of our mission. Each time you put on your scrubs, suits or white coats, you become an ambassador of this great health system. Individually you represent the collective—as one you are the face of many. Thank you each and all; together we are Saint Francis Strong.
presence in pictures Saint Francis Health System
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201 9 C O MMU NITY B E N E F I T R E P O R T
A Strong Commitment Community benefit is defined by the Catholic Health Association as programs and services offered by healthcare providers that are designed to: • improve the health of a community; • increase access to healthcare; and • advance public knowledge on issues impacting health and wellness. Providing these benefits are core functions of not-for-profit healthcare and the basis of their tax exemption. Saint Francis seeks to not only meet these core functions, but to exceed them whenever possible.
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In fiscal year 2019, Saint Francis Health System provided $125,759,930 in community benefit to the region. Each dollar included in this number is meaningful to someone—and each ‘someone’ who benefited from these dollars is meaningful to us.
Annual Community Benefit Over the past five years, there has been a $70 million increase in the amount of benefit provided to the communities we serve.
FY 2015
$82,664,537
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FY 2016
$102,808,446
FY 2017
$108,492,088
FY 2018
$119,692,708
FY 2019
$125,759,930
201 9 C O MMU NITY B E N E F I T R E P O R T
The total community benefit provided by Saint Francis Health System represents these seven key aspects and offerings of this ministry.
$69,364,625 Charity Care
$74,978 $2,017,596 $2,533,652 $4,970,657
Medication Support Community Benefit Xavier Clinic Funding Community Contributions
$8,277,376
In-house Trauma Coverage
$38,521,045 Uncompensated Care
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Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee Summer Safety Fest, July 2019 12
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201 9 C O MMU NITY B E N E F I T R E P O R T
Supporting Stronger Communities Saint Francis Health System has a 60 year legacy of giving back to the communities it serves. In Fiscal Year 2019, the health system invested $6,988,253 back into the community in the form of direct support of regional nonprofits and dollars spent to assist the uninsured to enroll in a benefits plan. We want to be deeply integrated in the community. We want to be a resource. We want to be a partner. These desires are rooted in our mission. We give heart and hand with no expectation of reciprocity. The greatest reward is seeing a positive benefit or outcome from the system’s investment in our neighbors.
Saint Francis Health System
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Supporting Stronger Communities Pictured are Saint Francis Health System employees volunteering for the United Way Day of Caring at Catholic Charities of Eastern Oklahoma. Over the years, Saint Francis has supported Catholic Charities through financial support of their programs, hands-on assistance from our employees and prayerful support from our people. In the early days of COVID-19, when supply chains were stressed and critical supplies were difficult to acquire, Catholic Charities was among the first community groups to reach out with donations of supplies. Interestingly, many of the supplies that Catholic Charities donated were leftover supplies from a medical mission trip that Saint Francis had previously donated to them. This full circle of benevolence is a touching reminder of the connectedness that is inherent in our community— particularly during times of need.
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United Way Day of Caring, September 2019 Saint Francis Health System
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201 9 C O MMU NITY B E N E F I T R E P O R T
Strength in Numbers In the past fiscal year, Saint Francis Health System invested $780,961,767 in its employees in the form of salaries and benefits. Employees are the health system’s greatest asset and supporting and nurturing their growth and stability in turn allows this health ministry to also grow and extend its reach. Today the health system stands strong with 10,500 employees spread across our regional network of care. Many people only picture nurses at the bedside when they think of who works in healthcare, but providing care to the community is a team effort. From front office to back office and curbside to bedside—each person is integral to each patient encounter. Our heart for healthcare is worn on our sleeves—regardless of if that sleeve is attached to a white coat, suit, scrub top or sweater. Warren Clinic has recruited an additional 57 doctors to join the state’s largest multispecialty physician network. These new physicians along with the system’s increasing virtual and tangible footprint in the region has broadened the reach of Saint Francis to care for and serve more people and populations.
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Saint Francis Hospital COVID Unit 4 Tower, April 2020 18
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Photo courtesy of Ian Maule, Tulsa World
201 9 C O MMU NITY B E N E F I T R E P O R T
Strong Support Just as Saint Francis is always looking for ways to improve the level of service and depth of offerings available to our patients and publics—we seek the same for our 10,500 employees. Through the coronavirus crisis, Saint Francis has developed and made available resources designed to support our employees through this difficult time. In addition to the long-standing Employee Assistance Program and Employee Emergency Relief Fund, the following programs were also developed by clinicians from Laureate Psychiatric Clinic and Hospital to help employees navigate through these difficult times: The HERO Program: Healthcare workers Empowerment with Resilience and Optimism: Laureate Psychiatric Clinic and Hospital collaborated with the Laureate Institute for Brain Research to offer a reoccurring online skills training workshop series focused on emotional and mental health strength building. Wellness Webinar Series: Therapists and psychiatrists from Laureate developed several presentations focused on various aspects of being a physician or healthcare employee during this challenging time.
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PRO NAILS HERTZ PEPSICO JOHN MABRY TULSA METROPOLITAN MINISTRIES SHARON HEDGECOCK JANE'S DELICATESSEN COMPASSUS HOSPICE ONWARD OKLAHOMA FOUNDATION And, to those who donated to any other healthcare organization, hospital, clinic or front line workers—thank you. Responding to a pandemic is a team effort and we appreciate the support given to ALL members of the team. To the many others who donated anonymously or after this publication was sent to print—thank you. 22
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201 9 C O MMU NITY B E N E F I T R E P O R T
Stronger Together There is an inadequacy of words to express our gratitude and gratefulness for the outpouring of support we have received from across the region in support of our staff over the past several months. To the companies, nonprofits, individuals, churches, neighborhoods, Girl Scout and Boy Scout troops, first responders and the countless others who donated gift cards, personal protective equipment, meals, snacks, gifts and other items to express your gratitude for our staff— thank you. Beyond the tangible nature of the gifts, the underlying expression of your support and acknowledgement of our team is immeasurable.
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Saint Francis Strong How do we move forward when the weight of what we have all been through is still resting heavy on the world? Natural disasters, public health crises, racial and societal tensions— individually these are each overwhelming issues, together— there isn’t a word yet to define their collective impact on the human psyche. How do we move forward? Together. From pandemics to primary care, Saint Francis Health System is committed to being the healthcare partner Oklahoma needs. In good times and in bad—now and for generations to come.
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201 9 C O MMU NITY B E N E F I T R E P O R T
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201 9 C O MMU NITY B E N E F I T R E P O R T
Oklahoma Proud. Then. Now. Always.
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Saint Francis Health System Values 28
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Each year—for the past 17 years now—when five employees receive a highly esteemed Saint Francis Health System Values Award, the significance of it is never lost on them. After all, along with the health system’s mission of extending the presence and healing ministry of Christ in all actions, its deeply entrenched values have guided it since the beginning.
Saint Francis Health System 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
Awards Winners Saint Francis Health System
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This year’s honorees
Excellence
The values of excellence, dignity, justice, integrity and stewardship are what anchor Saint Francis Health System’s foundation of care. They are much more than words…they are values that guide how patients, their family members and coworkers are treated throughout the health system. Nominated by their peers, each of the following award winners exemplify these values at their very core.
Cameron Nichols Nurse Tech Saint Francis Hospital South “This award is very humbling and indicates that my coworkers see me doing my best to go the extra mile for the patients—and for them. In my role at Saint Francis Hospital South’s outpatient surgery, I get to meet new people day after day. I love talking with them and hearing their stories. The patients and family members are so gracious and just pour out their appreciation. I wouldn’t want to work anywhere else than where I am. Saint Francis is a very special place that takes good care of its patients and of its employees.”
Dignity Isaac Roberson Pharmacy Tech Saint Francis Hospital “I am so happy to be part of the Saint Francis family and to be honored in this way. In my work as a chemotherapy pharmacy technician, the best part of each day is when I am mixing a patient’s medication and saying a prayer dedicated especially to that person. I believe Saint Francis is a blessed place to be because people truly do treat each other as they’d like to be treated. I see these actions not only among my coworkers in the pharmacy, but throughout the health system, as well.”
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Justice
Stewardship
Lisa Early, APRN-CNS, MS, C-OB
Maria Moore
Labor and Delivery Saint Francis Hospital
Warren Clinic Urgent Care/Laboratory Springer Clinic Lab
“Receiving this award from my peers is a great honor. I believe this recognition highlights the work my labor and delivery team and I consistently do to provide high quality and safe care for every mother and baby. I’ve always been fascinated with science and knew from early on that I wanted to be a healthcare provider. I’m very proud to work at Saint Francis. It is a health system that firmly supports quality initiatives and patient care, as well as its employees and community.”
“I’ve been with Saint Francis since 1991, and the best part of my career has consistently been the people—my patients and coworkers alike. I love the people! I have always been interested in medicine, and in fact, was one of those people who watched all the medical shows on TV. Receiving this honor means so much to me. To know that my coworkers are watching, noticing and appreciating the work I do is very gratifying.”
Integrity Carrie Veldstra, RN, BSN, CCRN Saint Francis Hospital “I was hired as a nurse tech during my senior year of nursing school and have been Saint Francis ‘pink’ for 23 years now. Saint Francis is my second home and throughout my career, I have always been very attuned to the health system’s values. I am so grateful for the many ‘hats’ I’ve worn during my career at Saint Francis—including staff nurse, relief charge nurse and, most recently, clinical manager. Receiving this award is such a huge honor and I will be eternally thankful to my colleagues for this recognition.”
2019 Saint Francis Health System Values Awards Winners Saint Francis Health System
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Saint Francis Health System's mission is to extend the presence and healing ministry of Christ in all we do. This is our purpose. And never before has this ambition shone so brightly as it did during the COVID-19 pandemic.
PRESENCE
IN A PANDEMIC Amidst uncertainty, confusion and anxiety, our staff members across all departments and all hospital and clinic locations, rose to this unprecedented challenge. Shielded in faith and driven by teamwork, employees throughout the health system showed us all what it truly means to be heroic. They quickly mobilized and organized new operational standards. They stayed current and relayed updated information as it was made available. Many times, they were seeing strategies change by the hour. Most importantly, though, they cared for and comforted the afflicted under great duress. Oftentimes, setting aside their own personal fears, simply to be by their patient’s side. They fully demonstrated what it means to live our mission. Forever indebted to their service, we are honored to share some of the stories from the front lines.
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“My faith has given me much hope,” she shared. “It has been the lifeline for me, the only stable part of my life during this pandemic. God has truly been my rock.” In addition to her work as a nurse, she also serves as the coordinator of youth ministry for Diocese of Tulsa and Eastern Oklahoma where she works with middle-school and high-school students from all over the diocese. Her desire to care for others prompted Marlena to study nursing at South Plains College in Texas. After graduating from nursing school in 2018, she worked in the Medical Intensive Care Unit at University Medical Center in Lubbock before moving to Tulsa to work at Saint Francis Hospital. “Saint Francis Hospital’s COVID unit provides care for patients with a wide range of acuity from minimal oxygen needs to requiring a ventilator and ICU care,” she explained. “I think it is incredibly difficult to fully describe exactly the job or the work done by nurses during this pandemic. Not only do we provide care for patients, we assist physicians during procedures, administer prescribed medications and infusion therapies, as well as educate, support and maintain open communication with patients and their families about their course of care.” Marlena also said that the uncertainty caused by the pandemic has been difficult for everyone. “We have all been somewhat fearful of what’s ahead, of what our new normal has become. For COVID patients and their families specifically, I think this has been incredibly difficult. Because of the contagion, they are unable to see their families, and there can be so much uncertainty in their prognosis, especially initially, because this is all uncharted territory.” While the COVID-19 pandemic has been a challenge for everyone throughout the world, especially medical professionals tasked with providing care for the public, Marlena is uncomfortable with being called a “hero.” She believes that she is just doing the job to which God has called her and that she loves. “I think like many nurses, I have found the term ‘hero’ a bit strange,” she reflected. “I do not feel like a ‘hero’, nor am I one. Heroes save people and the world. Jesus is our hero. He saved us. The sole purpose of being a nurse is to help mend people back to health. So no, I do not think myself to be a hero, but a person doing the job I have always done. The job I feel God has called me to do.”
Respiratory Care Unit | Saint Francis Hospital
(RCU) at Saint Francis Hospital in Tulsa. With the outbreak of the pandemic, the RCU is one of the areas turned into a COVID-19 unit for the hospital. Through this difficult time, Marlena said that her Catholic faith has been a source of strength for her.
Marlena Esparza, RN
Marlena Esparza is a nurse in the Respiratory Care Unit
“My faith has given me much hope.”
Source: Eastern Oklahoma Catholic Magazine
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“Let’s do what we need to do.”
Clinical Director | Warren Clinic Urgent Care
Sherry Fisher, RN, BSN
As news broke of the impending threat of COVID-19, the public was rightfully anxious. Not only was this virus an unknown, it was still flu season, and spring allergies were quickly approaching. Confusion was setting in between what symptoms were COVID versus the flu versus seasonal allergies. What was clear was, Warren Clinic Urgent Care facilities would undoubtedly be hit hard and proper testing would be critical. “As Warren Clinic worked to meet this challenge, it was all a bit providential,” said Sherry Fisher, RN, BSN, Clinical Director. “Before COVID-19 hit Tulsa, our administration had already started talking about converting our Elm facility to help potential COVID patients. We also held an urgent care section meeting inviting infection control from Saint Francis to talk with our providers about how to care for COVID patients.” “On my way from that meeting, I stopped by one of our clinics to see how they’d react to a potential COVID patient walking through the door,” continued Fisher. “We ended up running through how to handle a potential scenario with the front and back offices. Literally two hours later, an actual patient walked in with the same scenario we had just reviewed. We cared for them safely and that experience really got us discussing how we need to be ready. It’s one thing to hear a lecture, but it’s another to live it out.” Without hesitation, the Warren Clinic team moved to identify how to properly convert the Elm facility, creating a workflow that not only allowed for testing but triaging and treating COVID patients. “That particular facility had a basement, garage and an empty fourth floor space,” said Fisher. “We were able to set up a command center in the basement where nurses could preregister patients. We then set up a makeshift testing lab inside the garage, which still functions today. Understanding we’d have to temporarily close down that urgent care location, we moved quickly to turn the fourth floor into a fully operational clinic for COVID patients within a week. It took lots of teamwork and long hours to develop but it was Tulsa’s first testing site and one of the only dedicated COVID clinics.” Patients served at a glance at the Warren Clinic testing and triage site: (Statistics available from March 16th - June 19) • More than 6,000 people tested. • More than 1,500 patients seen. • More than 12,000 COVID hotline calls answered. • An average of 3 patients per day triaged to Saint Francis Hospital. As fears have eased and testing has become more expeditious, the lessons learned during this time have been invaluable. Especially, as the Warren Clinic team move to plan for the fall. “This experience has helped us build a great, highly-functioning network of professionals,” said Fisher. “It’s also allowed us to be more flexible and open-minded regarding how we can do things differently, providing better care to all patients.” Her mantra is simple: “Let’s do what we need to do.”
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“It’s been quite a balancing act.”
Manager, Respiratory Therapy | Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee
Mickey Duncan, RRT, RCP When COVID-19 hit, there was a general concern at hospitals across the country of whether or not medical professionals had enough equipment resources available at the ready. Stories were emerging that ventilators, personal protective equipment (PPE) and even beds were in short supply. It demanded that healthcare workers and administrators get creative in the stewardship and use of the resources they did have on hand. For our own respiratory therapists, like Mickey Duncan who works at Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee, it was an exercise in in-themoment resourcefulness and innovative thinking. “In the media, there’s been a lot of talk about ventilators,” said Duncan. “But as respiratory therapists, there are so many other pieces of technology that we actually use in our patient care. In fact, we took many devices and used them together, maintaining an enormous level of safety, but changed the way we were being therapeutic with COVID patients.” “We blended new technology with some more traditional technology, effectively, and shared these ideas with others. People across the nation began sharing their ideas, too. It all became tremendously helpful.” It was this global collaboration that also helped Duncan and his team at the Muskogee hospital prepare and train for what would eventually be the inevitable.
“In addition to this sharing of ideas, we were also able to set some pre-determined protocols and ideologies in place…to be ready…by using the information and data put forth from national and worldwide organizations,” Duncan said. “However, there was an overwhelming amount of information being shared.” “The information was changing daily,” Duncan continued. “So much so, we had to do a lot of education within the department. We shared it all on a board. It became known as the board of education, keeping everyone updated with the latest data.” It is stories like these, increased teamwork and ingenuity, that have served as shining moments during this pandemic. And while there’s certainly a resurgence of purpose and reward resonating through the industry, there’s also been a renewed sense of reserve. “For many of us, we’ve been doing this quite a while. You like to think you’re always on top of your game, that you can handle anything thrown at you and utilize your team and resources in new ways like we have…but this, this experience was humbling,” said Duncan. “There’s an intent that we must truly rely on each other.” “These are purpose-driven roles. Everyone wants to make a difference. That’s the reward and motivation. But there’s a new level of humility here among healthcare professionals now.”
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“Just keep rowing, let’s keep the boat moving forward.”
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While all departments were working diligently toward increased patient care and establishing stringent safety protocols, there was one department, tucked away in the hospital, focused on quickly identifying COVID-19 patients and the efficacy of treatment through testing: the laboratory. “Testing was absolutely critical,” said Jaime Mackey, director of Saint Francis Laboratory Services. “In the beginning, there was real concern over whether or not testing was readily available and if it was effective.” “There was a lot of stress because the public, the clinical staff and administrators were counting on us to give them the most up-to-date information,” continued Mackey. “Like everyone, we took our job very seriously. We simply kept our heads down and just kept rowing.” “I actually started calling my staff, the rowing team,” Mackey said. “We weren’t steering the boat, that was our leadership, we just kept it moving forward.”
Jaime Mackey
Director, Laboratory Services | Saint Francis Health System
Getting tests to the people was an enormous task because there were so many people who either had COVID-19 or concerned that they might have it. The availability of tests was important simply to help ease anxieties. Which is why Mackey and the laboratory team moved quickly to mobilize and organize draw sites as well as testing sites. “Since we have 23 draw sites throughout Saint Francis Health System, we had to educate all the staff at those outreach draw sites on how to use their personal protective equipment and how to interact with patients who they suspect might have COVID-19 or want to request a test,” said Mackey. “In particular, we worked closely with a strategic team to develop the testing site at the Warren Clinic Elm facility, which was the first testing site in the community.” From there, it came down to management of resources. “Laboratories overall were looking to find vendors that were even taking tests. We also had to get a handle on our supplies. Fortunately, we learned from a past flu season that we needed to stockpile swabs and other viral media, so as it turns out, we had plenty on hand. Once we had all of that in place, we turned our focus to prioritizing tests for patients from inpatient to outreach to those coming in through the emergency rooms,” Mackey said. “Then rapid testing became available in microbiology, which was a 1-hour test compared to the genetic testing which took 8 hours,” Mackey continued. “We had to work through algorithms to determine who got what test because it became all about allocation.” During it all, the lab still had to make time to handle all of its non-COVID workload. “What our team has done during this time, just speaks volumes to each person’s commitment and dedication as well as to the efficiency of our lab operations,” said Mackey. “There was a tremendous amount of pressure on our team but they would come in each day and just keep rowing. It was amazing to see.”
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For many healthcare professionals, being on the front lines of a pandemic has brought about a new intentionality and focus to their work. Whether it’s a closer review of patient care and treatment, or how medical teams collaborate, strategizing new operational standards, the challenge of COVID-19 forced everyone to hit the reset button. As Dr. Timothy Nokes discovered, “I found myself being more critical, not in a bad way, of information, asking more thoughtful questions and being more careful with my conclusions.”
“Think about your neighbor. Be kind and care.”
Tim Nokes, DO Pulmonary/Critical Care Physician, Saint Francis Hospital
That turned out to be a collective ambition among other healthcare workers, too. There was so much to consider, and to get right, leading to deeper discussions about the disease state and patient care. It created a togetherness and team mentality that, quite literally, spanned the globe. “Because medicine is a team activity, people all over the world have tried to help each other. Every little story, every little bit of information was being shared, everywhere,” said Nokes. “For us, it was very valuable to have validated insight because we were always a week or 10 days behind some of these places.” Having this information in advance allowed Dr. Nokes and his team to quickly develop and implement a plan to not only cohort COVID patients for specific care, but manage their current patient workload. It’s a plan that only required minimal adjustments from the onset and has remained in place. “On March 16, our team put together a set of recommendations, along with the those of Saint Francis Health System, and within a week, week and a half a plan was in place,” Nokes said. “Then, my partners and I, we’d sit down to discuss our three most challenging cases to see what was working and what wasn’t. We just constantly shared information.” “The first week or so was a little nerve-wracking,” Nokes continued. “But the analogy I like to use is that it was like two boxers. You feel each other out and after a while, you get used to each other. It all started to feel normal.” Normal being a relative word to the unique circumstance of the situation. Fast forward to today, there’s definitely more confidence. However, healthcare professionals are still learning more about the virus. There are many questions that need answers. And as our communities start to reopen, front line workers like Dr. Nokes want to inspire people to take a similar team approach to helping safeguard one another while a vaccine is being developed. “Beyond CDC instructions, the most important thing is to encourage people to think about their neighbor…care for each other, be kind to each other. Show some grace to one another. Let’s start there,” said Nokes.
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Healthcare has always been personal and hands on with providers closely interacting with patients as well as family members. It allows for a deeper connection and understanding, not only of what the patient is suffering from but how they are coping with it emotionally, and even spiritually. COVID-19 has changed all that.
“But, because of COVID-19, we’ve had to reset expectations around some of those more personal interactions. That’s been our biggest challenge. Part of what we enjoy and are known for is now missing.” It hasn’t been easy for providers or patients experiencing the challenges of the safety protocols that have been put in place. The cumbersome, menacing appearance of personal protective equipment, restricted visitations, it has all weighed heavy on the soul. However, providers like Culp continue to find ways to make the moment more personal. To reimagine how staff, patients and family members can connect. “We started using iPads so we could FaceTime with patients if we were unable to visit every hour on the hour,” said Culp. “It was also a good way to let patients communicate with family who couldn’t be in the room with them.” “We have a single-story facility here, so we allowed family to come to the windows to see their loved ones. And speaking of family, we made it a point to fully communicate with family members of patients to share in their progress and care. It was deliberate and ongoing.”
“Everybody was feeling the impact of this pandemic,” said Culp. “People have anxiety and stress. Families have been confined to the same four walls, leading to intense moments of fellowship.” “At the hospital, we started up a daily devotional. This is a set time in the afternoon where anyone is welcome to come and pray and decompress. Just walking through the hospital and seeing people pray together is comforting.” “I myself, every Sunday, host an online devotional for some encouragement with scripture,” continued Culp. In the face of challenge and uncertainty, people always find a way to shed light on the darkness. To rise up and overcome. To continue the job at hand. “Everyone has a purpose, God created us for a purpose. And part of my purpose is to help extend that healing ministry just like Saint Francis,” said Culp. “We have a mission to fulfill.”
Executive Director and Administrator Saint Francis Hospital Vinita
These new normals of personal attention also transitioned to the care and support of staff and the community at large.
Melinda Culp, BSN, RN, OCN
“Here in Vinita, and throughout the entire health system, we’ve worked hard to provide excellent care, increasing customer satisfaction by interacting with people on such a personal level,” said Melinda Culp, executive director and administrator of Saint Francis Hospital Vinita. “The community has come to know us in that regard.”
“We have a mission to fulfill.” Saint Francis Health System
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It’s been said that God calls upon us when and where He needs us most. That path is different for everyone. For some, it’s a calling that comes without question. For others, it might come unexpectedly, even with some reservation. Yet, always revealing itself to be of greater design and purpose. It is in the latter that Karen Njafuh, RN, BSN, found herself on the front lines of a global pandemic. A recent nursing school graduate assigned to a respiratory step-down unit, her introduction to healthcare quickly became a trial-by-fire experience. One that proved to be a challenge for even the most experienced medical professionals. “There’s a lot of education and training provided in nursing school,” said Njafuh. “But I don’t ever remember receiving any education about a pandemic or what that would even look like.” She and her fellow nurses found resolve in faith and teamwork, leaning in to one another and conquering their fears together to provide compassionate care to those struggling with the virus. Their respective 12-hour shifts became journeys of fellowship, celebrating victories and consoling when necessary. It was a bond that extended to their patients as well as to patients’ families.
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“We were scared at first,” Njafuh said. “However, we picked up our bearings and ran with the torch we were given. We let our patients and their families know that we are all in this together.” Through all of the challenges faced, patient care still deeply impacted the nursing staff. For Njafuh, she took it upon herself to try to learn something special about each of her patients, so she could connect with them on a more personal level. “I had one patient who I would sing to and pray with. It’s what she found comfort in,” said Njafuh. “In fact, I did their initial assessment and watched them go from being on a ventilator to going home. The care was full circle.” It was in moments like these that she understood God’s path for her. She even wrote a prayer to ready herself before each shift, reciting it in the car before going into work. “My husband would tell me that you are where you are supposed to be for a reason,” Njafuh said. “I know that now.” “You’ve got to rise up boldly and know God will cover you. Don’t let fear stop you from your purpose. Someone needs you.”
“Don’t let fear stop you from your purpose. Someone needs you.”
Karen Njafuh, RN, BSN Respiratory Care Unit | Saint Francis Hospital
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Ryan Parker, MD
COVID-19’s march around the globe could be described as swift, deadly and wildly indiscriminate. It’s during times like these where nature has a way of reminding us that we survive and thrive by looking out for one another, working together and truly being our brother’s keeper. “There was a lot of anxiety early on to get things right,” said Dr. Ryan Parker. “It was important that we were protecting ourselves, our colleagues and our patients.” This demanded a unified effort across the board from all departments, all locations. Protocols were established and training was conducted, but the all-hands-on-deck mentality and support was immediate. More importantly—organic. Everyone knew they had an important role to play. “I’ve been so thankful and pleased with the teamwork here at Saint Francis,” said Dr. Parker. “The preparation for COVID-19 patients happened very quickly and efficiently. Calls came in from every department understanding that the ER would be hit hard and asking how they could help.” Even those departments that may not first come to mind when one thinks of a hospital setting, showed how critical their service was to the overall care of patients and support of the front line workers. From food services, to housekeeping to materials management, they all took pride in the mission at hand. “It got pretty personal, pretty quick,” said Dr. Parker. “I sent a text to our materials management director to thank him for getting us the equipment we needed. He replied that it was his honor along with an image of a salute. He’s from a military background, so it meant something to him. That made me tear up.”
Medical Director, Emergency Medicine Saint Francis Health System
And that turned out to be a sentiment that was overtaking the entire healthcare and medical industry. “It wasn’t just about working together within our own Saint Francis family,” continued Parker. “Instead of being about a distinct health system, we were working with the health department and other systems to consolidate efforts to care for the community.” What really resonated with Dr. Parker was simply walking the halls, seeing team members in action, carrying out their mission. It was inspiring and reminded her of the famous quote from Fred Rogers: “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’” A willingness to help, to serve in a time of crisis, is at the heart of all teamwork. Being there for each other. It’s how we overcome. “Personally, the support of my colleagues and especially my family helps get me through each day,” said Dr. Parker. “And having faith in a higher power will help us all get this challenge under control.”
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“Yes. We are open.” As this pandemic has unfolded, with more and more
“One experience that struck me was dealing with an asymptomatic patient,” Dr. Oyekan continued. “She demonstrated no symptoms whatsoever but was COVID positive. What hit me was how easy it was to transmit if you are not taking necessary precautions.” Safety has become a priority for everyone throughout Saint Francis Health System. Every department has taken the time to review and reevaluate how they operate and how they impact other departments. It’s led to new standards being implemented to provide a higher level of protection for staff, patients and visitors. “Here, our infection control systems are wonderful,” said Dr. Oyekan. “And it’s important that we demonstrate that to our patients. Every room has a sanitize dispenser, the hallways have dispensers, COVID patients have been cohorted into one area, everyone is required to wear a mask, providers wear PPE and round differently…meaning we visit all COVID patients at the same time, we’re not hopping from COVID rooms to non-COVID rooms. And COVID rooms are being cleaned differently. Even food services has started using disposable trays.” “Many of these practices will be forever changed,” said Dr. Oyekan. Through this commitment to safety, Dr. Oyekan wants people to know that we understand those anxieties that might keep one from seeking the treatment they need. It’s important to let the public know that by going to the hospital your exposure to COVID does not increase. “Yes, we are open. The hospital is safe. Don’t forego the care you need because you’re anxious or fearful to be here,” said Dr. Oyekan. “It is safe. It’s important to note, too, that we’re not overwhelmed. We have the capacity to treat you. We’re never too busy to be there for the people who need us.”
Hospitalist | Saint Francis Hospital South
“From the very beginning to today, we have had an increased awareness of infection control,” said Temitayo Oyekan, DO “There have been ongoing conversations and training around personal protective equipment, cohorting patients and other safety measures.”
Temitayo Oyekan, DO
information coming to light, there have been stories upon stories of protocols, ideologies, treatments and general operational standards changing daily, if not hour by hour. However, the one thing that has remained consistent through it all is a diligent focus on safety. Safety of the patient. Safety of front line workers. Safety of the public.
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As Oklahoma's largest healthcare provider, we have seen the impact that COVID-19 is having on our patients, our staff, our neighbors, friends and families.
KEEP YOURSELF AND YOUR NEIGHBORS SAFE. FOR TWO WEEKS IN JUNE, SAINT FRANCIS HEALTH SYSTEM SPONSORED A REGION-WIDE MASK AWARENESS CAMPAIGN. AS PART OF THE INITIATIVE, SAINT FRANCIS DONATED 40,000 NON-MEDICAL, DISPOSABLE MASKS FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE COMMUNITY. WE SINCERELY THANK REASOR'S, RIB CRIB AND CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF EASTERN OKLAHOMA FOR PARTNERING WITH US ON THIS PROJECT, SERVING AS MASK DISTRIBUTION SITES.
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It is essential we remain vigilant about reducing the spread of this potentially fatal illness by practicing social distancing, washing your hands frequently and wearing a mask when you're out in public places such as shopping areas, special events and social gatherings. The people pictured on these pages are your neighbors. They are all Oklahomans; they live, work and worship in our community. Oklahoma is strong, but Oklahomans are stronger when we work together.
BY WEARING A MASK OR CLOTH FACE COVERING, YOU CAN HELP REDUCE THE RISK OF EXPOSURE TO COVID-19 IN THE COMMUNITY. SINCE PEOPLE MAY SPREAD THE VIRUS BEFORE SHOWING ANY SYMPTOMS, WEARING A MASK CAN PROTECT OTHERS. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides the following important information about cloth face coverings: • Wear a face covering or mask anytime you leave your home, regardless if you have fever or symptoms of COVID-19. • Face masks/coverings should not be used on young children under the age of 2, anyone who has issues with breathing or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
The following guidelines remain in place to help prevent the spread of COVID-19: • Stay home as much as possible, and practice social distancing when out in public or social gatherings. • Wash your hands frequently. • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. • Avoid close contact with others and especially those who are ill.
• Make sure that your mouth and nose are covered and that the mask fits snugly to the side of your face.
• Stay home if you are sick.
• Ensure that you do not have difficulty breathing while wearing a cloth mask.
• Continue to clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
• Wash your cloth face covering with a bleach solution after each use and allow it to completely dry.
• Contact your physician if you show any signs of the illness or were exposed to someone who has COVID-19.
• A cloth face cover is not a substitute for social distancing. Continue to keep about 6 feet apart between yourself and others.
• Cover coughs and sneezes. • Monitor your health for symptoms of COVID-19.
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In Prayer and Service
Saint Francis’ Religious Sisters of Mercy serve in various roles… including the COVID-19 front line.
As anyone knows who has visited Saint Francis Sr. Mary Rachel Nurbun, RSM, MD
Hospital—or any other of the health system’s regional facilities—the Religious Sisters of Mercy are familiar faces. They provide a calming presence and are readily available to join in prayer or lend spiritual support in any way they can. But, what may not be as commonly known is that a growing number of these Sisters practice medicine and serve as physicians and other medical professionals. And, when the COVID-19 pandemic began months ago, several of them were called upon to serve in ways they could scarcely have imagined.
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Sr. Marie Josepha Kluczna, RSM, APRN-CNM
“It has been challenging on many levels; but it has also been amazing to see God’s hand at work.” – Sister Mary Sarah Macht, RSM, APRN
Seeing God’s Hand at Work Since the pandemic’s earliest days, Sister Mary Sarah Macht, APRN, certified nurse practitioner at Warren Clinic Urgent Care facilities throughout the area, has served at the site of the health system’s COVID-19 isolation clinic. “As soon as the virus struck, we knew it was critical to establish a specialized clinic to meet the needs of those potentially infected by COVID-19. So, we converted an empty office on the fourth floor of the Saint Francis Broken Arrow Elm location into an isolation clinic,” Sister Mary Sarah says. The clinic features a drive-through testing site and triage assessment area to help doctors and other healthcare providers identify those in need of further evaluation and possible admittance to the emergency room. “As Sisters of Religious Mercy, we are called to love as Christ loved and to give of ourselves to others,” Sister Mary Sarah says. “During these uncertain times, we have treated patients who ranged from being worried, to those who were terrified. And, with each one of them, we did all
we could to provide the kind of care they need in the safest possible manner. It has been challenging on many levels; but it has also been amazing to see God’s hand at work. I believe the pandemic has forced people to slow down and contemplate the meaning of life and death—and what is profoundly important and what is not.”
Rooted in Prayer Sister Mary Rachel Nerbun, RSM, MD, internal medicine physician at Xavier Medical Clinic, which is operated by the health system, shares a similar sentiment. “Xavier Medical Clinic is unique in that its mission is to provide healthcare for adult patients who are uninsured or underserved within the community. And, so as you can imagine, the COVID-19 outbreak has presented a whole new set of difficulties that can negatively affect many of our patients’ health—which for many, is fragile to begin with since they have conditions such as diabetes, kidney or heart disease. Yet, throughout it all, we show our patients
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Sr. Gianna Marie Savidge, RSM, MD
Sr. Mary Benedicta Maier, RSM, with Dr. Ali Siddiqui at Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee
we are here for them no matter what and trying our best to meet their needs,” she says. “As Religious Sisters of Mercy, we strive to be a rock of stability for others during trying times. Our lives are deeply rooted in prayer and from that prayer, flows our strength to serve others. That is why we are here and what we are all about.” As for family medicine physician, Sister Gianna Marie Savidge, R.S.M., MD, her time was rotated between Saint Francis Hospital on the main campus in Tulsa, Saint Francis Hospital South and Saint Francis Hospital Glenpool. “For me personally, the whole experience has been rewarding. I feel deeply privileged to have this opportunity to be present and a loving witness to our patients during their time of need. I have been blessed to have conversations with and lend support to many patients and their family members. I think this communication helps to bridge the gap between doctor and patient. After all, we are all in this together,” Sister Gianna Marie says. “As
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much as this pandemic has been a cross for everyone to bear, it has also been a blessing; a blessing in the sense that by caring for others—as well as for one another—we have created an immutable sense of solidarity.” Paramount for each of the Sisters of Religious Mercy is the power of prayer. As stated by Sister Mary Nika Schaumber: “Our greatest service is prayer. No matter the professional area in which we work, we pray at least four hours each day, for our patients and for the needs of the health system. Prayer is the primary activity of our Institute. We attend the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass every day, and pray in our convent chapel every morning, evening and night. We seek to serve as conduits of the Lord’s love and mercy. Common life is also essential to us as Religious Sisters. We are grateful to Saint Francis Hospital for providing us with a beautiful convent where we can share our life of prayers and service together and enjoy recreation, often in our wonderful courtyard.”
Prayer for Peace in Anxiety ​During the Coronavirus Pandemic Loving God, we come to You full of anxiety about what may happen in the coming days and weeks. Shower us with the peace Jesus promised to His disciples, and make us into steady pillars for those around us. In this time of uncertainty and epidemic, wake us up to the reminder that we are not alone. Even as we are asked to keep our distance from others, help us to find ways to reach out to those who need our support. We pray especially for those whose incomes and livelihoods are threatened. For the children who will miss meals due to school closures. For those already isolated, lonely and scared. Loving God, give them Your peace, and through our hands ensure they have what they need. Sustain, strengthen and protect all caregivers. Bless them as they offer compassionate care and show selfless courage in the face of risk. Remind us, each time we wash our hands, that in our baptism You call us to let go of our fears and live in joy, peace, and hope. Amen.
Source: The Catholic Health Association of the United States
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SAINT FRANCIS HEALTH SYSTEM EXTENDS CARDIAC SERVICES THROUGHOUT THE REGION
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WHETHER YOU LIVE IN TULSA, OR IN A NEIGHBORING COMMUNITY, TAKE THIS INFORMATION TO HEART— SAINT FRANCIS HEALTH SYSTEM IS EXTENDING ACCESSIBILITY TO HIGH-QUALITY, STREAMLINED CARDIAC CARE THROUGHOUT EACH OF ITS HOSPITAL LOCATIONS. THE GOAL: TO BRING IMPROVED HEALTHCARE SERVICES CLOSER TO WHERE PATIENTS LIVE IN EASTERN OKLAHOMA.
“A vitally important part of our mission is to ensure excellent, consistent cardiology services are provided at each of our campuses in Tulsa, Muskogee, Vinita, Glenpool and McAlester,” says Doug Williams, senior vice president of Saint Francis Health System and administrator of Saint Francis Hospital. “What this means is that patients can see a cardiology specialist, receive diagnostic testing, receive hospital care or manage chronic conditions a bit closer to home.” With a large dedicated team of healthcare providers, Saint Francis Health System offers a full range of cardiovascular programs such as heart disease prevention, diagnosis, emergency care, specialized procedures, cardiovascular surgery, followup care and cardiac rehabilitation. What drives this is the commitment of numerous physician specialists, advance practice providers, nurses and staff who work to ensure a seamless coordination of care delivery.
AN INTEGRATED NETWORK OF SERVICES The hub of Saint Francis’ cardiac services is based at the Heart Hospital at Saint Francis at 61st and Yale. That’s where the health system’s highest level of cardiology services, surgical and critical care is available. That continuum of cardiac care extends to Saint Francis Hospital South, Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee and Saint Francis Hospital Vinita. In cases of a cardiac emergency, such as a heart attack or stroke, each of those locations, as well as Saint Francis Glenpool, provides 24/7 emergency care. “Of course our patients have access to advanced, state-of-the-art technologies and clinical expertise in the Heart Hospital. But our regional network of experts extends this area’s most trusted name in healthcare into the region,” says Michael Spain, MD, interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Heart Hospital at Saint Francis. “There’s a reason I’ve been here for more than 30 years—from curbside to bedside, Saint Francis is committed to innovation and improvement in all aspects of this organization. I want our patients to not only have access to the best cardiac care—I want them to have access to the
best of everything—and that is what Saint Francis is able to offer.” When a patient’s condition is more complex and/or deemed high risk, they would be transferred to the Heart Hospital at Saint Francis. Throughout this process, every effort is made to ensure the patient’s transfer of care is as streamlined and efficient as possible. “In cases where patients need to be transferred for more intensive care, the continuity of care never stops.” says Beverly Allen, executive director of the Heart Hospital at Saint Francis. “In other words, the doctors who provided care at the regional hospital will have real-time access to patient updates and the same resources as the doctors in Tulsa. Throughout the health system and within the surrounding communities, Saint Francis has a very tight network of doctors and staff members working together to provide continuity of care for each patient.” A common reason for transfer to the Heart Hospital is for cardiothoracic or vascular surgery. Robert Garrett, MD, Paul Kempe, MD, Giancarlo Piano, MD, and David Yandell, MD, perform the region’s most complex cases in the state’s most technology-advanced operating rooms.
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REGIONAL SERVICES Dr. Sarah Shaw, is one of a number of cardiologists who divide their time practicing at the Heart Hospital in Tulsa, and at other Saint Francis area hospitals. Since 2017, Dr. Shaw has commuted to Saint Francis Hospital Vinita to provide cardiac care for patients living in the area. “It’s so important to ensure that people living in rural areas have access to the exact same quality of care they would receive in Tulsa at the Heart Hospital at Saint Francis,” Dr. Shaw says. “While some patients who live in this area may initially need to undergo a cardiac procedure at the Heart Hospital at Saint Francis, it is tremendously helpful for them to get follow-up care here and close to home. Not only does this accessibility to quality care help to alleviate any potential stress, but it also has a positive impact on their outcome and overall care.”
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PRESCRIPTIVE CARE “We provide cardiac care in a very uniform and prescriptive manner and are on the same page on everything from protocol, 44 equipment to technical knowledge,” Williams says. “As the only non-invasive cardiology program in the state that is accredited in every modality, Saint Francis is on excellent footing. What this demonstrates is that we are checking all the boxes in both inpatient and outpatient care—and making a concerted effort to provide excellent cardiac care to patients here in Tulsa and in neighboring communities.”
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• 24/7 emergency care • Outpatient cardiology services • Diagnostic cardiology • Interventional cardiology • Non-invasive cardiology and testing • Cardiothoracic and vascular surgery • Structural heart program/ valve replacement
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• Electrophysiology • 24/7 in-house interventional cardiology • Neurointerventional program • Vein/vascular care • Heart failure clinic • Device clinic • Inpatient/critical care
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CARDIAC CARE SERVICES WITHIN SAINT FRANCIS HEALTH SYSTEM Cardiology is a field of medicine that is constantly evolving through new technologies, less-invasive procedures and interventions. Saint Francis Health System’s entire continuum of cardiovascular care services include, but are not limited to the following:
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With several office and hospital locations in our area, Warren Clinic physicians, advance practice providers, nurse practitioners and other clinical staff provide cardiac care services. To learn more or to schedule an appointment with cardiology services, please call 918-488-6688 or contact the location nearest you. Warren Clinic Cardiology Vijay Gadiraju, MD Ajay Joseph, MD Robert Okada, MD Harsh Patel, MD William Ross, MD Sanjeev Trehan, MD Lisa Armstrong, APRN, CNP Theresa Rogers, PA-C Rosa Stamile, APRN, CNP Jasmine Thompson, APRN, CNP Judith Ward, APRN, CNP 6151 South Yale, Suite 1-304 Tulsa, Oklahoma 74136 918-494-5300
Warren Clinic Cardiology of Tulsa Sahil Agrawal, MD Jane Bare, MD Mary Bass, APRN, CNP Darwin Childs, DO Rachael Delaney, APRN, CNP Melissa Dimick, APRN, CNS Stephen Dixon, DO Doug Ensley, MD Poorya Fazel, MD Jacqueline Flores, APRN, CNP Tucker Harrison, DO Patrick Henderson, DO Gregory Hill, DO Richard Irvin, MD John Ivanoff, MD Kaci Jackson, APRN, CNP Tho Le, MD Adam Karpman, DO Edward Morris, MD Joseph Pruitt, PA-C Taylor Sanders, APRN, CNP Rhonda Sedlacek, PA-C Sarah Shaw, DO Michael Spain, MD Taylor Tatum, PA-C
Warren Clinic Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery Robert Garrett, MD Paul Kempe, MD Giancarlo Piano, MD David Yandell, MD Belinda Brazear, CST, CSFA Sheila Hamilton, APRN, CNP Matthew Jezik, CST, CSFA Joseph Mahaffey, PA-C Samira Queen, APRN, CNP Adrian Ratke, PA-C Tambra Sharrock, CST, CSFA Cydney Wiens, PA-C Bryce Wright, PA-C 6465 South Yale, Suite 910 Tulsa, Oklahoma 74136 918-502-3200
Saint Francis Hospital South Stephen Dixon, DO John Ivanoff, MD Tho Le, MD Joseph Pruitt, PA-C 10505 East 91st Street South, Cardinal Building 208 Tulsa, Oklahoma 74133 918-494-8500 Vijay Gadiraju, MD Ajay Joseph, MD Harsh Patel, MD J. Andy Roye, MD Sanjeev Trehan, MD
Warren Clinic Vinita Jane Bare, MD Gregory Hill, DO Sarah Shaw, DO 715 North Foreman Vinita, Oklahoma 74301 918-256-8731
Warren Clinic Muskogee Satish Kohli, MD Debasish Chaudhuri, MD Tammy Stiles, APRN-CNP 3340 West Okmulgee Muskogee, Oklahoma 918-687-6002 John Evans, DO Brian Lucenta, MD 101 South Rockefeller Drive Muskogee, Oklahoma 918-681-6847
Warren Clinic Glenpool Stephen Dixon, DO 140 West 151st Street South, Suite 202 Glenpool, Oklahoma 918-494-8500
Warren Clinic McAlester Lynn Preston, DO 1401 West Van Buren McAlester, Oklahoma 74501 918-421-8420
10507 East 91st Street South Bishops Medical Building, Suite 560 Tulsa, Oklahoma 74133 918-494-5300
6151 South Yale, Suite A-100 Tulsa, Oklahoma 74136 918-494-8500
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Cardiac/Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation: The First Step Toward Recovery Cardiac/cardiopulmonary rehabilitation programs are provided not only at Heart Hospital at Saint Francis, but also at Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee. And, it bears repeating that the protocols and quality of care provided by each Saint Francis cardiac/cardiopulmonary rehab program are one and the same.
Cardiac/cardiopulmonary rehab is a supervised program that includes:
“The most common reason patients are referred to cardiac rehab is because they have had a heart attack, a stent placed, cardiac bypass surgery or a heart valve replaced. And, those most often referred to pulmonary rehab have moderate to severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD),” says Erik Ostrowski, supervisor, Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation.
• counseling patients to find ways to relieve stress and improve overall mental health.
• physical activity – exercise monitored by a clinical rehabilitation team; • wellness education —including nutrition, medication education and smoking cessation; and
The rehab teams consist of cardiac/ cardiopulmonary nurses, dietitians, exercise specialists, pharmacists and lifestyle counselors. “We are all fully committed to motivating and helping our patients feel stronger,
Cardiac Rehabilition at Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee
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energized and in their own words, ‘more like themselves again,’” Ostrowski says. “There is a very large population of individuals with heart disease and COPD in Muskogee and surrounding communities. Our rehab program will not only help these patients recover from recent hospitalizations, but provide them with the tools (i.e., education, behavioral changes, motivational strategies) to manage their disease and remain healthy and out of the hospital.”
Saint Francis Hospital is dedicated to providing its patients with the highest level of care, earning multiple IAC accreditations in the following areas:
The Heart Hospital at Saint Francis Earns National Accreditation for High-Quality Cardiac Care Heart Hospital at Saint Francis recently earned accreditation by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC) in all cardiac testing modalities which include computed tomography (CT); echocardiography; vascular testing; and nuclear cardiology.
and other highly trained professionals performing the examination; the type of testing equipment used; and the quality assessment metrics each facility is required to measure. Most importantly, these factors all contribute to positive patient outcomes.
As the only hospital in Oklahoma to be accredited in all four disciplines, the Heart Hospital at Saint Francis has demonstrated its commitment to providing patients with the highest level of care.
“This accreditation is a testament to the physicians and many other staff members who are the heart and soul of Saint Francis Health System’s cardiology program,” says Jake Henry Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer, Saint Francis Health System. “It is their dedication and dogged commitment to the care of our patients that truly counts. So, on behalf of all of us at the health system, I’d like to congratulate and thank them for all they do and the difference they make in the lives of so many."
What does IAC certification mean to patients? Knowing the facility that has earned it has undergone a rigorous evaluation of its daily operations in conjunction with nationally recognized standards. Evaluation criteria include the training and experience of physicians
W HAT THI S M EA N S TO PATI E N TS IAC accreditation is a “seal of approval” that patients can count on, knowing that this facility has undergone a rigorous evaluation of its daily operations in conjunction with nationally recognized standards.
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There is something very unique about Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee’s physical therapy program. At the root of it all is the universal truth that being out in nature—especially within a thriving garden—is good for the soul. And, as it turns out, spending time in a garden is also good medicine in terms of rehabilitation and physical therapy.
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Left to right: Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee physical rehabilitation manager Maria Aza and physical therapist Betty McGowan.
Nothing Garden Variety About It Located in a lush clearing within the hospital’s campus, the garden includes a veritable bounty of veggies, herbs and fruit—including green beans, tomatoes, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cucumbers, strawberries, blackberries, pumpkins, dill, basil, cilantro—and flowers too, of course.
Physical therapy is designed to help recovering patients restore their physical strength, cognition and mobility. Typically, this type of rehabilitation helps people gain greater independence after illness, injury or surgery—and being out in the garden has proven to be one more way to help them attain their individual goals.
“Being outdoors in the garden provides such a nice break for our patients. It’s something they seem to really love!” – Maria Aza, manager, physical medicine and rehabilitation, Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee
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“Being outdoors in the garden provides such a nice break for our patients. It’s something they seem to really love!” says Maria Aza, manager, physical medicine and rehabilitation at Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee. “Although everyone is welcome to come out and just enjoy the garden, we encourage patients who are able to engage in closely monitored functional motions such as bending and digging that are very applicable to their recovery. In fact, the therapeutic benefits of this garden are the reasons we love having it as a part of our physical therapy program.”
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Reaping the Fruits of the Garden Since time immemorial, much has been said about the many benefits and joys of a garden. One such quote seems to sum it up by stating that “gardens add years to your life and life to your years.” “This garden is all about living. The whole premise behind it is to show patients that physical rehabilitation isn’t only about doing a prescribed number of repetitions inside a hospital room,” says Betty McGowen, physical therapist and purveyor of the garden. McGowen inherited this special garden when her former coworker and friend, Margaret Holton, passed away several years ago. “Margaret came up with the idea for this garden in the first place. She was very devoted to it and intuitively knew how healing it would be for everyone who spent time in it. I just know how happy it would make Margaret to see how her legacy continues to flourish!” McGowan says.
Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee offers physical medicine and rehabilitation services to both hospitalized patients as well as outpatient care. To learn more, please call 918-684-3620 or visit saintfrancis.com/muskogee. Services include the following:
A memorial plaque is displayed to remember the employee, Margaret Holton, who founded the garden at the hospital.
“It is wonderful to see how our patients respond to it both physically and mentally. They really get into it too! I’ve never claimed to be a Master Gardener and appreciate all the helpful tips and suggestions we get. It’s clear our patients take as much pride in this garden as we do and enjoy reaping the benefits it provides for us all.” Upon learning he would require physical therapy, one particular patient never dreamed it would include time outdoors in a garden. “My first response was, ‘This is really part of the deal? Alright!’ I have always been an outdoors kind of person, so when I found out about the garden, my whole outlook changed. Being outside and in the garden helps me hold my head up and move forward. That—plus an awesome staff that is beyond helpful and accommodating—has changed my whole perspective of physical therapy.”
• Orthopedic rehabilitation (for adults, seniors, teens and children) – Joint replacement surgery recovery – Spine/back injury care • Physical therapy • Occupational therapy • Speech therapy • Neurological recovery • Stroke recovery • Vestibular rehabilitation • Post-operative recovery • Sports injury recovery
Specialty services: • Dry needling • Hand therapy • IASTM/Graston Technique • Kinesio taping • Return to work program • Stroke support group
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Moving Forward FACTS WITH
When it comes to COVID-19, anyone can attest it’s been tough keeping up with all the uncertainties and evolving clinical guidance that has surrounded this novel virus.
Sydney Staten Coordinator, Saint Francis Joint Replacement and Spine Center
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Yet, here’s a fact on which you can depend: Since the coronavirus’ earliest days, Saint Francis Health System has—and will continue to be— focused on keeping our community as safe and healthy as possible. When the pandemic arrived in our area earlier this year, recommended safety and infection control protocols were already in place at every Saint Francis campus and facility within the surrounding area.
OVER FEAR The Show Must Go On “Even at the height of COVID-19, our surgical services never totally shut down since Saint Francis treats high acuity patients. It was imperative that we continued to provide care for those in dire need. Efficient testing, stringent safety and infection control processes were immediately put into effect to protect patients, visitors, as well as our staff members from being exposed to— or exposing others to COVID-19,” says Madonna Newcomer, executive director of surgical services for Saint Francis Health System. “In addition to anesthesia, administration and our surgical leadership group, this multi-layered response required tight collaboration with additional departments throughout the health system to get the job done. It’s been amazing to see that level of teamwork, as well as how Saint Francis’ leadership has been handling the whole COVID-19 situation. To me, it’s truly been phenomenal.”
“It goes without saying in every instance, social distancing, masks and hand hygiene are mandatory with everyone on the unit. We make certain it is a very safe environment. People ask if I’d feel comfortable if one of my loved ones was a patient. My answer is unequivocally ‘Yes!’” — Sydney Staten
Pleasantly Surprised Ban on Elective Surgeries Lifted When the ban on elective surgeries was lifted for hospitals, research has shown that many patients still had fears and uncertainties about going to a healthcare facility. “We understand there are concerns— which is precisely why we take testing for COVID-19 very seriously,” says Sydney Staten, coordinator of the Saint Francis Joint Replacement and Spine Center. “To begin with, any patient who is planning a surgical procedure at any hospital in the health system is required to test negative for the virus 72 to 48 hours prior to surgery. That way, everyone can be assured each patient has been tested. In other words, if they are here, they’ve tested negative for COVID-19.” “It goes without saying in every instance, social distancing, masks and hand hygiene are mandatory with everyone on the unit,” says Staten. “We make certain it is a very safe environment. People ask if I’d feel comfortable if one of my loved ones was a patient. My answer is unequivocally ‘Yes!’ Patients have been having very successful outcomes. In fact, we have decreased their length of stay at the hospital from two days to one.”
One of the few things that is certain about COVID-19 is that it will likely be around for some time to come. How long is anybody’s guess. “We know COVID-19 isn’t going anywhere for a while; but, what’s really surprised me is how well patients have accepted this and adapted to the necessary protocols and changes that have been made,” says Dr. Tony Little, family medicine physician at Warren Clinic Glenpool. “For example, E-Visits and Video Visits have been very well received. Of course, the younger patients are familiar with technology and have no problem at all. But, our elderly patients have done great too. I must admit it’s not only the patients who have been pleasantly surprised. It has been wonderful for us too and has provided an opportunity to really connect with our patients in the convenience and safety of their homes.” Dr. Sharon Little also of Warren Clinic Glenpool has this to say: “I think E-Visits have been a blessing especially with our elderly patients—some of whom live in rural areas. It prevents them from feeling isolated and reassures them that we are just a click or call away. I believe this is yet another example of how Saint Francis honors its mission of extending the presence and healing ministry of Jesus Christ in all we do—even and especially during a worldwide pandemic.”
Tony Little, DO Warren Clinic Glenpool Family Medicine
“I think E-Visits have been a blessing especially with our elderly patients—some of whom live in rural areas. It prevents them from feeling isolated and reassures them that we are just a click or call away.” — Sharon Little, DO
Sharon Little, DO Warren Clinic Glenpool Family Medicine
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WARREN CLINIC SPECIALTY SPOTLIGHT
Warren Clinic general surgeons include (left to right): Steven Feher, MD; Guido Sclabas, MD; John King, MD; Samuel Pangburn, DO; and Patrick Ross, MD
The physicians of Warren Clinic General Surgery in Tulsa, McAlester and Muskogee offer a wide range of procedures and unique expertise. With stateof-the-art surgical suites at Saint Francis Hospital as well as advanced surgical technologies, such as the daVinci™ robotic surgical system, available at regional sites, Saint Francis is proud to serve eastern Oklahoma and all those who call it home.
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“General surgery” is a term you have heard but may not know exactly what it entails. Dr. Samuel Pangburn says general surgery procedures are focused on the area from approximately the neck to the hip. This includes gastrointestinal surgery, thyroid removal, appendectomies, hernia repair and lung surgery. “As far as surgeries go, we have everything covered,” says Dr. Pangburn, an Oklahoma native who grew up in Ponca City. “We probably do twice as many procedures as the average surgeon does. Saint Francis Health System ensures that we have access to the best technology and that every part of the process is patientcentered.” Dr. Pangburn says about 90 percent of his procedures are done with robotics. With robotic-assisted surgery, surgeons need to only make a few short incisions instead of a single long incision that open surgery requires.
The advantages of minimally invasive robotic surgery may include: • less pain and blood loss; • less scarring; • reduced trauma; • shorter hospital stay; and • quicker recovery.
From the general to the specific. Most general surgeons have expertise with specific diseases or conditions of the body. Dr. Pangburn, for example, receives many referrals for his skill in hernia repair and colon surgery, among other procedures. For pancreatic and liver cancer surgery, Dr. Guido Sclabas is the resident authority. Born in Switzerland, Dr. Sclabas came to America in 1988 to do research at MD Anderson in Houston. He never left the U.S. as his research and studies took him to several renowned hospitals around
WARREN CLINIC GENERAL SURGERY IN MUSKOGEE AND MCALESTER Warren Clinic also offers a broad range of surgical services in Muskogee and McAlester. With an experienced team of surgeons as well as robotic surgery capabilities, emergency surgical services, endoscopy procedures and more, patients who live in the region have access to care, Richenda Herren, MD closer to home. Muskogee
Warren Clinic General Surgery in Muskogee Richenda Herren, MD Sumit Kumar, MD 101 Rockefeller Drive, Suite 201 Muskogee, OK 74401
Sumit Kumar, MD Muskogee
J. Martin Hayes, MD McAlester
Warren Clinic McAlester General Surgery J. Martin Hayes, MD
the country, including the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York, and Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Tennessee. “I trained an extra two years with specific focus on the pancreas and liver,” says Dr. Sclabas. “It’s not common in this part of the country to be fellowship-trained in these areas. In fact, that is one of the reasons I was attracted to Saint Francis Health System. I saw that, for my specialty, this region is underserved. I felt I could make more of an impact here.” “I really like the multidisciplinary team we have here, with medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, gastroenterologists and interventional radiologists. We get together every week to discuss patients and make decisions about the best treatment plan for them. But my favorite aspect of the job is taking care of people. A lot of anxiety comes with a diagnosis of liver or pancreatic cancer. It has a big impact on my patients’ lives, and I’m here to help them.”
Providing a broad range of surgical care As Dr. Sclabas relates, there is a personal aspect of the general surgery specialty that is often overlooked—the compassion of one human being for another. It is not uncommon for general surgeons to choose
their profession for personal reasons. As a young boy, Dr. Sclabas had asthma and went to the doctor frequently, which began his interest in medicine. And his mother died of pancreatic cancer, which narrowed his focus. Dr. Patrick Ross, the newest member of the Warren Clinic General Surgery team, also had motivations that began in childhood. “When I was a kid, my friend’s dad was a surgeon, and he’d come home after work and tell us all these interesting stories,” he says. “Then, when I was in college, my dad got sick and needed a lot of surgery.”
1401 East Van Buren McAlester, OK 74501
Warren Clinic General Surgery Physicians in Tulsa Saint Francis Hospital John King, MD Patrick Ross, MD Guido Sclabas, MD 6475 South Yale, Suite 406 Tulsa, OK 74136
After more than ten years as a surgeon in Tulsa, Dr. Ross joined Warren Clinic in February of this year. A Tulsa native and graduate of Edison High School, Dr. Ross specializes in cancer and complex gastrointestinal surgery. “I’m really excited to join this group to provide outstanding surgical and cancer care to our community,” he says. “I wanted to work at Warren Clinic because of the vision and commitment to the quality of care here, and the fact that it is locally owned. I could’ve gone anywhere, but I didn’t need to.”
Saint Francis Hospital South Steven Feher, MD
“From the physicians to the nurses to the administrators—across the board, Saint Francis Health System and Warren Clinic are committed to providing the best surgical services in the region.”
918-488-6688.
Samuel Pangburn, DO 10501 East 91st Street South Tulsa, OK 74133
For more information, referrals or to schedule an appointment with Warren Clinic General Surgery in Tulsa, McAlester or Muskogee, please call Saint Francis Health Link,
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MODERN MEDICINE’S ANSWER TO STAYING HEALTHY AND CONNECTED WARREN CLINIC VIDEO VISITS NOW INCLUDE URGENT CARE
Over the past several months, when concerns about COVID-19 have kept many of us home, thousands of Warren Clinic patients have successfully utilized Video Visits and E-Visits to seek care with their primary doctor or specialist. Now, that care also includes Warren Clinic Urgent Care services. By simply using your smartphone, tablet or computer, you can also schedule a Video Visit with any Warren Clinic
Urgent Care location for minor illnesses, injuries and after-hours care for adults and children. This includes those with symptoms of COVID-19. Even if there isn’t a Warren Clinic Urgent Care in your community, and even if you have never been to one of our Urgent Care locations before, you can schedule a Video Visit online with any location listed below.
WARREN CLINIC URGENT CARE LOCATIONS TULSA Springer Building 6160 South Yale Avenue 918-495-2600
Tulsa Hills 7858 South Olympia Avenue 918-986-9250 South Memorial 10506 South Memorial Drive 918-943-1050
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BROKEN ARROW Elm Place 2950 South Elm Place, Suite 120 (101st Street and Elm Place) 918-451-5191
Kenosha 1801 East Kenosha Street (71st Street and OK-51) 918-449-4150
SAND SPRINGS 102 South Main Street 918-246-5750
WARREN CLINIC URGENT CARE HOURS: Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (all locations) Saturday:
8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Springer location only)
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (all other locations)
Sunday:
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (all locations)
HOW TO SCHEDULE A WARREN CLINIC URGENT CARE VIDEO VISIT: • Simply visit to saintfrancis.com/urgentcare to begin • Click the option to schedule your Urgent Care visit online • Select ‘Video Visit’ or ‘Office Visit’ based on your preference • Choose a location and an available time • Enter a reason for your visit and click ‘Schedule It’ • A Warren Clinic representative will then call to pre-register you for the visit • The physician or provider will contact you for the Video Visit And what’s important to know, when you take part in a Warren Clinic Urgent Care Video Visit, you are seeing a physician or provider based right here in Eastern Oklahoma within the Saint Francis and Warren Clinic network of care.
If you haven’t yet taken advantage of Warren Clinic Urgent Care Video Visits, we encourage you to join the thousands of patients who have. It is an effective—and surprisingly easy—way to stay in touch with your healthcare provider from the safety of home during COVID-19.
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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
Inspired to create a sustainable and just healthcare system, Saint Francis will be the technology-enabled health ministry that delivers integrated, market-leading, high-quality, affordable care through engaged caregivers to the people of eastern Oklahoma.
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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