’s
March 2, 2018
The Pulse
Your regular check up on SCKMC activities Share your thoughts, story ideas, and comments by e-mail to claytonp@sckrmc.org.
SCKMC OB Receives “High 5”
Cowley HealthWoRX Hosts Chamber
The February SCKMC Board of Trustees meeting began by recognizing the efforts of the obstetrics department in their support of breastfeeding through the High 5 for Mom and Baby program. High 5 is a statewide breastfeeding initiative comprised of healthcare professionals, lactation specialists, breastfeeding advocates, and others interested in improving the health of Kansans. “I’m very proud to say that here in Cowley County, Ark City especially, that moms and babies are getting the very best care and we are here to recognize your hospital as a High5 for Mom and Baby hospital,” said Gwen Whittit, Program Coordinator for High 5 for Mom and Baby. The High 5 program encourages adoption of five evidencebased maternity care practices that support breastfeeding success. To be recognized as a High 5 program participant, a facility must complete the following practices at 80% or greater, and have policies in place to support those practices: • Assure immediate and sustained skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby after birth. • Give newborn infants no food or drink other than breast milk, unless medically indicated. • Practice “rooming in” -- allow mothers and infants to remain together 24 hours a day. • Give no pacifiers or artificial nipples to breastfeeding infants. • Provide mothers options for breastfeeding support in the community upon discharge. High 5 for Mom and Baby is supported by the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund. The program began in 2012, with SCKMC joining in 2013. Shaylee Jagels, SCKMC’s OB Manager, has championed the cause for the medical center since the beginning. Whittit presented Jagels a High 5 facility recognition plaque to be displayed within the OB department. “This is something we have been working on for quite a while. It feels pretty good to have this in place for moms and babies in Ark City,” Jagels said. Both Jagels and Whittit believe that, through the High 5 program, infants are starting off in a healthy direction. “With all the hard work here, you have made change which will support moms and babies in your community with life-long health benefits,” Whittit said.
The Arkansas City Chamber of Commerce partnered with Cowley HealthWoRX to educate business owners about the benefits associated with direct primary care and wellness programs. The luncheon was held at SCKMC on Feb. 27th. “Cowley HealthWorRX takes traditional clinic care to the next level. We find out what the patient needs today, but also work with them to achieve their long term healthcare goals. Ultimately, as an employer, you will have a happier, healthier, more productive staff,” explained Clayton Pappan, SCKMC’s Director of Marketing. Cherie Bahm, the clinic’s provider, schedules double the standard appointment with each patient, usually within 24 hours from when they call. This additional “face time” allows the patient to have all their questions answered and for Bahm to fully explain the treatment plan. Each plan is a key component with the wellness aspect of the program. “A lot of patients appreciate the convenience and ease of scheduling, and a 30-minute visit gives me adequate time to learn about the patients I am working with and where they are at with their life right now,” Bahm said. Although individual memberships are available, the clinic is designed to be employer based with all or most of the monthly membership fee being covered by the employer as a benefit allowing unlimited office visits with no copays or deductibles. “As the program is used two things happen. First, the employers insurance claims drop significantly since 80-90% of the employees health needs can be covered without filing. Second the employees are actually healthier because of the in-depth wellness program. These two combined give the employer some powerful ammunition when facing rate hikes from their insurance providers, potentially saving thousands of dollars for the business each year,” Pappan said.
The Pharm Forum with Homer Mah, D.Ph. Elderberry and Oscillococcinum for treating flu are selling fast due to a bad flu season and temporary shortages of Tamiflu. Do not rely on these over-the-counter items to treat or prevent the flu. There is limited evidence which may suggest elderberry may reduce flu duration if started within 48 hours of symptoms. These over-the-counter products may vary and many don't come close to the doses studied. Oscillococcinum has no measurable amount of active ingredient and is homeopathic. It doesn't seem to help or harm. Tamiflu is unlikely to cause hallucinations, confusion, or other rare reactions as reported in the media.
Direct Primary & Preventive Healthcare. Pure and Simple. Our inter-disciplinary approach combines primary care, nutritional counseling, and fitness to control, manage, and reverse common chronic conditions and improved outcomes. • Primary Care • Occupational Medicine • Wellness Programs • Health Management • Preventative Services • Workers Compensation • Testing & Vaccinations • Urgent Care Call or visit us online today to learn more about our unique health & wellness program.
(620) 441-5711
6403 Patterson Parkway, Ark City
www.cowleyhealthworx.com
Diane Ray, RD/LD
Shari Spencer
Cherie Bahm, APRN, FNP-BC
Registered Dietitian / Nutritionist
Office Manager
Direct Primary & Preventive Healthcare