042416 leading medical pros

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A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION OF THE GAZETTE SUNDAY, APRIL 24, 2016

www.gazette.com/medical

Medical Professionals SPOTLIGHT: Colorado Headache Center at Stetson Hills Dental

Colorado Dermatology Institute: Aiming to be the change HealthSource Chiropractic & Progressive Rehab Penrose-St. Francis Stroke Care 101 THE GAZET TE

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Leading Medical Professionals April 24, 2016

contents

3 Long-term solutions for chronic headaches from Stetson Hills Dental .................... 4 Fort Collins lab leads Zika testing effort .................................................................. 7 Getting back to great health with HealthSource Colorado ....................................... 8 Peak Gastroenterology Associates is enhancing patient care to put you first ........ 10 Q&A with the Penrose-St. Francis Health Services Stroke Center ........................ 12 Colorado Dermatology Institute: Aiming to be the change ................................. 14 Community medical events calendar ......................................................................

Published by The Gazette 30 East Pikes Peak Avenue, Suite 100 Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903

President & Publisher Dan Steever Vice President of Sales Wanda Artus-Cooper Editor, Leading Medical Professionals Leslie Massey Photographer Erica Fellion Graphic Designer Gina Pietramale

Local Community ections?

Asthma? Sinus? Cough? Allergy?

Sales Manager Erik Carlson

Health care in the Springs: Perspectives from the El Paso County Medical Society ......................................

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To advertise: Only Consult with a Real Allergist 719-476-3216

ON THE COVER LEFT – RIGHT: Valerie Smith, Dr. Gary Moore and Andie McDonald of Stetson Hills Dental; see story on page 4. Photo by Erica Fellion Certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology

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Central • North • South • Woodland Park 2 THE GAZET TE

Matthew S. Bowdish, MD • William W. Storms, MD

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Call to schedule your appointment 719-574-7631

located on the corner of Constitution and Powers for over 30 years

COMMUNITY medical events APRIL 24

Ellafest Musical Fundraiser – To benefit Ella Mae Bransom Sickle Cell Association, 3 p.m., Stargazers Theatre and Event Center, 10 S. Parkside Drive, $15 – $62. Advance tickets: ellamae.org/tickets.

APRIL 25 Breathe and Be – Exploring Mediation and Pranayama 2:15 – 3:15 p.m.

Colorado Springs Senior Center – 1514 N. Hancock Ave., if no cost listed, call or go online. Registration: 955-3400, csseniorcenter.com.

Child Abuse Prevention Conference – Building Self-Healing Communities 2:30 – 8:30 p.m., Hotel Elegante, 2886 S. Circle Drive, $40 – $120.

Registration: peacefulhouseholds.org.

APRIL 26 Child Abuse Prevention Conference – Building Self-Healing Communities 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Hotel Elegante, 2886 S. Circle Drive, $40 – $120.

Registration: peacefulhouseholds.org.

APRIL 27 Discover Goodwill’s Annual Dinner 6 – 9 p.m., The Broadmoor, 1 Lake Ave., $85 Reservations: discovermygoodwill.org.

APRIL 29

marchofdimes.org/colorado.

JUNE 25

MAY 6

Climb for Courage, Stair Climb Race and Family Festival – To benefit Children’s Hospital Colorado

Community Breakfast and Fundraiser To benefit NAMI-Colorado Springs, 7:30 – 8:30 a.m., Antlers hotel, 4 S. Cascade Ave. Reservations: namicoloradosprings.org.

MAY 7 Breast Cancer Survivor Luncheon and Fashion Show 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Antlers hotel, 4 S. Cascade Ave., free for survivors, $25 for supporters. Reservations required by April 30: komencoloradosouth.org.

Mental Health First Aid Training Teaches participants to give first aid in a mental health crisis and/or early stages of a mental health problem, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Citizens Service Center, 1675 Garden of the God Road, free.

Registration: mhfaco.org/find-a-class

APRIL 30 March for Babies Walk – to benefit March of Dimes 9:30 a.m., UCCS, 1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway. Registration:

Chocoholic Frolic – to benefit Kidpower 7-10 p.m., The Pinery at the Hill, 775 W. Bijou St., $65. Reservations: kidpowercs.org.

JUNE 4 Heart Walk – To benefit the American Heart Association 7:30 – 11:30 a.m., Switchback Stadium, 6303 Barnes Road.

Registration: csheartwalk.org.

9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Falcon Stadium, Air Force Academy, 5900 Stadium Blvd., $20 – $35, free for family festival.

Registration: tinyurl.com/z6q7rp8.

AUGUST 16 Sertoma Hears 5K Walk and Run – To help provide hearing aids to those who can’t afford them 8 – 11 a.m., Bear Creek Park East, South 21st Street at West Rio Grande St., $15 – $25. Registration: h5ke.org.

Ongoing Community Health Events Pikes Peak Therapeutic Riding Center 13620 Halleluiah Trail, Elbert. Go online for cost. Registration: pptrc.org.

Colorado Springs Senior Center 1514 N. Hancock Ave., if no cost listed, call or go online. Registration: 9553400, csseniorcenter.com.

• Powerful Tools for Caregivers, 9:30 – noon Fridays, April 15 – THE GAZET TE

May 20.

• Teens Dealing with Parental Divorce, 1:30 – 3 p.m. Saturdays, April 30 – May 21.

• Dealing with Divorce and Co-Parenting, 3:30 – 5 p.m.

Saturdays, April 30 – May 21.

• ADHD and Self-Regulation, 1:30 – 3 p.m. Saturdays, June 11 – 25.

• Finding Spirituality in Life’s Everyday Challenges for Couples, 3:30 – 5 p.m. Saturdays, June 11, 25.

• ADHD and Self Regulation for Teens, 1:30 – 3 p.m. Saturdays, July 9 – 30.

• Dealing with Deployment, 1:30 – 3 p.m. Saturdays, Aug. 20 – Sept. 10.

• Respect, Communication and Trust in Relationships, 3:30 – 5 p.m.

Saturdays, Aug. 20 – Sept. 10.

• Addictive Behaviors and Self Regulation, 3:30 – 5 p.m.

Saturdays, Sept. 17 – Oct. 8.

• Bullying and Confidence, 1:30 – 3 p.m. Saturdays, Oct. 29 – Nov. 19.

• Dealing with the Deployment of a Family Member, 3:30 – 5 p.m.

Saturdays, Oct. 29 – Nov. 19. ✚

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Your chronic headache may need a dentist

Stetson Hills Dental and Dr. Gary Moore help some of the millions of Americans who suffer from migraines and/or chronic headaches Andie McDonald of Stetson Hills Dental providing therapeutic ultrasound therapy Photo by Erica Fellion

BY LESLIE MASSEY, LEADING MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS

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he was in tears. Jill was a 37 year old mom of two, happily married for 10 years, but had one major issue in her life — migraines virtually every day. Not only was she missing out on her children and family’s activities, she was missing out on life in general.

It all started about two years ago, with roughly 25 terrible migraines per month, usually on her right side. Jill couldn’t pinpoint any specific reason, the headache’s just “started one day.” She had been active most of her life in sports such as hiking and bike riding, along with high school sports as a teenager. Then, each day when she woke up 4 THE GAZET TE

she wondered if it was going to be another “one of those days.” Subsequently, work was also suffering because she missed so many days due to her condition.

As Jill described her pain, it became evident that this problem was destroying her life. Her health history showed that she had visited several specialists and had tried several different medications (some with unpleasant side effects), yet nothing was successful in pain relief, and some treatments seemed to make her feel worse. She had braces when she was a teenager and the only trauma she could think of was a car accident in her late twenties causing her to be treated for whiplash.

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She was tired, in pain, and seeking an alternative answer — hoping for a solution that would finally give her relief.

During a screening process, Jill was evaluated for several key items such as muscle trigger points, tenderness, and how her teeth meet together when chewing. Her exam took less than one-hour. Administering a T-Scan, (a highly accurate bite force analyzer), showed that when she closed her teeth together, she was hitting very hard on her right side. In fact, when she chewed, over 65 percent of her biting force impacted just two teeth on her right side.

Jill was also aware of trigger points in her head and neck muscles that she assumed was an

Cervical Range of Motion Analysis Microcurrent Stimulation Therapy – Sub-threshold microcurrent stimulation reduces muscle spasm and referral pain through low electrical signal.

outcome from issues with her bed or pillow.

The National Institutes of Health estimate that 51.5 million Americans suffer from migraines and/or daily chronic headaches. These are startling statistics considering that Americans, like Jill, spend upward of $400 million a year on headache and migraine medication.

The head and mouth are home to a myriad of nerves, muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints and bones which affect not just your teeth, but your overall health and well-being. When not properly balanced, the forces created by these elements can result in stubborn pain.

For too many years, common headache treatments have overlooked the role that the mouth, jaws and bite alignment can play in triggering pain. Malocclusion, or the misalignment of teeth, is actually a prominent contributor to headaches.

When biting or chewing, the teeth exert tremendous pressure on their opposing counterparts. If the bite pattern is even slightly disturbed, this pressure can result in radiant pain throughout the head compounding the pain, severity, and duration of headaches.

Additional symptoms can include muscle tension, sensitive teeth, broken teeth or dental work, uneven tooth wear and cracking, limited range of head/neck motion and reduced mouth opening range, as well as accelerated bone loss in periodontal disease.

Ultimately, Jill was introduced to Trudenta, a treatment which is so effective that doctors report 95 – 100 percent success rates, and so revolutionary it has been featured on all the major TV news stations; ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC. Jill is now living a fuller, more energized life and best of all, her family life is much happier too. No more pain, anxiety, and lost “family moments.”

TruDenta is considered to be a “life changing dental medicine.” For good reason, only dental professionals can provide it as they are uniquely trained to deliver a comprehensive examination of the bite forces and range of

TruDenta ROM technology digitally measures the lateral and vertical motions of your head and neck, and compares them to normal range of motion. The computerized analysis then provides an immediate report of any movement impairment, which may indicate potential sources of pain or discomfort. Dr. Moore is then able to customize a treatment plan designed specifically to alleviate your unique symptoms.

Mandibular Range of Motion Analysis

motion in the head, neck, mouth, jaws and teeth by utilizing proprietary and patented TruDenta diagnostic technologies.

In Colorado Springs, Dr. Gary Moore of Stetson Hills Dental is uniquely trained and equipped with TruDenta, the breakthrough diagnosis and treatment method for relief of chronic headaches, migraines, tinnitus, TMJ/D, and vertigo.

TruDenta is able to provide a thorough snapshot of all physical functions of the head, neck and mouth, delivering an incredibly clear and concise diagnosis of pain symptoms.

An individual’s ability to open their mouth within a normal range, (53 – 57 mm), along with their capacity to slide their jaw left and right, (at least 25 percent of their total mouth opening) in a symmetrical fashion, can also indicate concerns.

The range of motion measurement also includes a review of the joint noises and vibrations. Any noise in the Temporomandibular Joints, (TMJs), is intimately related to restriction in the mandibular range of motion. Normal TMJs do not make sounds or have vibrations, therefore if the joints are not smooth and quiet, this indicates dysfunction.

The TruDenta Examination

TruDenta Treatment

In less than one hour, using TruDenta diagnostic technologies, Dr. Moore implements a comprehensive exam providing an abundance of information that empowers him to create a detailed treatment plan that will lead to lasting relief.

Once your symptoms have been diagnosed, your specific treatment can begin immediately.

Many patients are amazed at the relief they feel after their very first appointment. Therapy sessions last about one hour and include the use of several FDA-cleared technologies.

Treatment is painless and non-invasive — meaning no needles or drugs are involved.

Depending upon the severity of the diagnosis, patients require from four to twelve treatments, completed weekly. This means that a patient with even the most severe symptoms can achieve lasting relief in just three months.

Bite Force Analysis This digital exam literally shows a movie of the bite force in action, revealing abnormal forces or imbalances in the nerves, muscles and ligaments that could be the cause of symptoms. The technology is so advanced that it actually determines and calculates the bite force and motion on a tooth-by-tooth basis.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

Therapeutic Ultrasound Therapy – Therapeutic exposure to ultrasound reduces trigger point sensitivity and has been indicated as a useful clinical tool for managing myofacial pain.

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Colorado Headache Center at Stetson Hills Dental:

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

Andie McDonald of Stetson Hills Dental performing low-level cold laser therapy Photo by Erica Fellion

Therapeutic Ultrasound Therapy

Low-Level Cold Laser Therapy

The goal of therapeutic ultrasound treatment is to return circulation to sore, strained muscles through increased blood flow and heat. Another goal is to break up scar tissue and deep adhesions through sound waves.

Therapeutic exposure to ultrasound reduces trigger point sensitivity and has been indicated as a useful clinical tool for managing myofacial pain. Additionally, ultrasound also has been shown to evoke antinociceptive effects on trigger points.

Low level laser/light therapy is one of the most widely used treatments in sports medicine to provide pain relief and rehabilitation of injuries. Over 200 randomized clinical trials have been published on low level laser therapy, half of which are on pain.

Low level laser/light therapy decreases pain and inflammation, accelerates healing of muscle and joint tissue 25 – 35 percent faster than without treatment, and reconnects neurological pathways of nerves to the brain stem, thereby inhibiting pain.

Low level laser therapy, in combination with electrical stimulation, has been shown to improve mouth opening in patients diagnosed with TMJ/D. It decreases pain by promoting the musculoskeletal system’s natural healing ability. It also promotes stability of the TMJ. If you are plagued by any of these issues, call Dr. Moore today to receive your free screening, and find out if TruDenta is right for you. Amazing pain relief could start with the very first treatment. ✚

Microcurrent Stimulation Therapy Sub-threshold microcurrent stimulation reduces muscle spasm and referral pain through low electrical signal. It also decreases lactic acid build-up and encourages healthy nerve stimulation.

In particular, microcurrent electrotherapy has been shown to help increase mouth opening significantly.

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TruDenta is considered to be a “life changing dental medicine.” For good reason, only dental professionals can provide it.

Dr. Gary Moore Colorado Headache Center at Stetson Hills Dental 719-694-0400 5910 Stetson Hills Blvd., #110 www.HeadacheColorado.com

THE ZIKA VIRUS OUTBREAK:

Fort Collins lab leads testing effort

BY KATE ALFANO, COLORADO MEDICAL SOCIET Y COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

The World Health Organization rang a global alarm over the Zika virus on Feb. 1 when they declared the outbreak a “public health emergency of international concern.”

The disease is spreading exponentially in the Americas and the organization predicts as many as four million people could be infected by the end of the year. Since the spring of 2014, more than 30 countries have reported locally acquired cases of Zika. Global health authorities face the delicate task of alerting the world to the dangers of Zika without provoking panic — particularly as affected areas experience increased reports of birth defects and Guillain-Barré syndrome — while at the same time coordinating the fourpronged public health response of diagnosis, treatment, prevention and research.

Health officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have taken the lead in the United States in issuing guidance to patients and physicians on the prevention and evaluation of Zika, with Colorado’s own CDC Division of Vector-Borne Diseases in Fort Collins leading in testing and research.

Robert Lanciotti, PhD, is chief of the diagnostic and reference laboratory within the Arbovirus Diseases Branch in Fort Collins.

His lab has been receiving up to 300 samples per day to test from nearly every U.S. state and many countries. He became one of the world’s leading authorities on Zika in 2007 when he and a team traveled to the tiny island of Yap in Micronesia to study the first recorded epidemic. He was lead author of a paper following the trip that analyzed the epidemic and described three diagnostic tests.

As he puts it, Zika was obscure and uninteresting until a little more than a year ago.

It was first discovered in 1947 by a researcher working with sentinel monkeys in Uganda and, over the next 60 years, would only be reported in fewer than 10 people in Africa and Southeast Asia. There are roughly 500 vectorborne diseases — viruses transmitted by fleas, ticks and mosquitoes — and around 100 can cause human illness. Zika was known to cause human illness but the symptoms were minor: fever, rash, joint pain and conjunctivitis.

Concern for Zika heightened when it crossed hemispheres — an alarming sign in the virus world — and heightened further with

Health officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have taken the lead in issuing guidance to patients and physicians on the prevention and evaluation of Zika, with Colorado’s own CDC Division of Vector-Borne Diseases in Fort Collins leading in testing and research. ✚

the suspected connection to microcephaly.

Brazilian health authorities contacted the CDC and Lanciotti was part of a team invited to travel to the country in January to conduct a week-long training of public health personnel from Central and South America.

“There is a critical need to diagnose in Brazil,” he said. “That’s the first thing you need to figure out with an epidemic like this: who’s infected. Then you focus on treatment, prevention and then research. They’re hard workers and they’re getting the job done in Brazil, but slowly. They’re behind and there’s still work to be done. It’s not slowing down.”

That’s what struck him about the trip, the sense of panic. “Eighty percent of the people in Yap were infected with Zika and 75 percent didn’t know they were infected,” Lanciotti said.

“They think the number in Brazil may be about the same. There are still some questions about whether Zika virus is causing microcephaly but if it is, it will end up being one of the most devastating viruses in history.”

From an epidemiological standpoint, he sees a strong link between the virus and microcephaly. Two public health workers who attended the training came from Pernambuco, the state of Brazil located in the northeast region of the country where the majority of microcephaly cases have been diagnosed, and the scientists brought photos of the babies,

brain scans and laboratory data. Of the babies diagnosed with microcephaly who didn’t survive, they saw clear evidence of virus in their brains, and in the cases where the babies survived, the placenta was loaded with virus, he said.

“What we’ll learn in the next few months is critical to establishing the link between Zika and microcephaly,” Lanciotti said. “The first case in Brazil was detected spring of 2014; nine months later that’s where microcephaly is occurring. Of those countries in South and Central Americas who diagnosed cases of Zika since that time, will we see microcephaly in nine months? That will be one of the proofs of the link between the virus and the birth defects.”

While the work isn’t slowing in Brazil and it isn’t slowing yet in Lanciotti’s lab, it is expected to slow in the U.S. in six to seven months as more state public health labs are trained in running patient samples and as more U.S. patients heed the CDC’s travel advisories to the affected countries. In another month or two, once the initial crisis has passed, the CDC will be able to address the next level — research — working with the National Institutes of Health and other publicly and privately funded companies to answer critical questions and start the long road to developing vaccines. ✚

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Getting

BACK to great health

BY LESLIE MASSEY, LEADING MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS

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hasing back pain relief or nursing a strain in your neck might send many people to seek the services of a chiropractor, but what about chronic headaches, trouble sleeping, or being told surgery is your only hope. Those, and plenty of other ailments, are effectively treated by chiropractors every day, often ending the need for pain medication, and eliminating the need for surgery.

Because the spine provides structural support for our bodies, protects our central nerves, and facilitates motion,

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a healthy spine plays a significant role in daily functioning. To enhance overall health, chiropractors use spine and body manipulation techniques to address complications, reduce pain, and boost the body’s natural healing abilities.

Due to his own back pain, Colorado Springs native Dr. Jason Keller, of HealthSource Chiropractic became aware of spinal decompression therapy, a safe, drug free way to achieve lasting results for chronic problems. “I couldn’t pick up my kids without my back going out,” he said.

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“After researching spinal decompression therapy for two years, I realized there is abundant potential to resolve a number of long-term issues.”

Today, as a specialist in spinal decompression at HealhSource, Dr. Keller has had the opportunity to help improve the health of a number of patients using spinal decompression therapy. “Your whole body is controlled through your spine,” Dr. Keller said. “If any part of it gets twisted or out of place it can easily generate pain and functional issues.”

The complex architecture of the spine means sometimes even a slight strain can trigger disruption in your back. “Between each vertebra in the spine, discs filled with a jelly-like substance create flexibility and cushioning, accompanied by a system of nerves,” Dr. Keller said. “Sometimes these nerves get compressed, or the jelly can be warped which results in tingling, numbness, muscle weakness, or even sharp or shooting pain.”

Many patients with lower back pain, herniated or bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, and the common infliction of sciatica, have achieved successful results where other treatments have failed.

By gently lengthening and extending the spine, spinal decompression takes pressure off of pinched nerves, bulging discs are repositioned and distorted disc material is drawn back into place, while also inducing nutrients, oxygen, and fluids into the disc supporting the healing process.

When nerves function better, a myriad of afflictions can be mitigated. “We had a young patient who had struggled to get pregnant and about to start fertility treatments,” said Dr. Keller. “Because she also suffered from low back pain, we were treating her with spinal decompression therapy. Once the issues with her spine were resolved, her nerves were functioning better, and not only did we alleviate her back pain, but she has four kids now. It could be happenstance, but it’s true that the body functions better when the spine is healthy.”

Just as it takes time for any injury to heal, spinal decompression therapy also needs time to correct the disorder. It’s common for many patients to notice a reduction in pain within a few treatments, although the absence of pain does not indicate complete healing.

A typical treatment regimen involves about 20 sessions over a period of a few weeks.

“Sometimes it takes more time, and sometimes it takes less,” Dr. Keller said. “We have had patients with somewhat severe impairments that need a bit more time to correct.”

The National Institutes of Health website notes that two pilot studies show that nonsurgical spinal decompression treatment has a beneficial effect on lower back pain and enhancing the structure of the spine by increasing disc height. One study, by Dr. John Leslie of the Mayo Clinic, found that clinical use of a spinal decompression system led to an

Dr. Jason Keller, HealthSource Chiropractic & Progressive Rehab Photo by Erica Fellion

A full service chiropractic team is ready to provide the type of care that suits every patient’s needs. From progressive rehab to nutrition and weight loss, helping with sleep issues and helping patients live a pain-free life — HealthSource provides a wide range of services to enable a healthy and active lifestyle.

88.9 percent reduction in pain scores over six weeks, as well as a drop in consumption of pain medications and improvement in quality of life.

HealthSource is not only about spinal decompression though. A full service chiropractic team is ready to provide the type of care that suits every patient’s needs. From progressive rehab to nutrition and weight loss, helping with sleep issues, and helping patients live a pain-free life — HealthSource provides a wide range of services to enable a healthy and active lifestyle.

The team at HealthSource is focused on precisely what each patient needs to get back to great health and they are equally driven to maintain it by embracing a plan that ensures continued wellness and an overall healthier lifestyle. ✚

HealthSource Chiropractic & Progressive Rehab 6190 Lehman Dr., Suite 100 719-638-HELP (4357) www.HealthSourceChiro.com

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Introducing next level health care …

Peak Gastroenterology Associates, PC unveils completely renovated, cutting-edge health care destination

BY LESLIE MASSEY, LEADING MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS

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utting you first requires more than world-class clinical care — it requires addressing every aspect of your encounter with the practice.

Along with tending to the medical issues, there are patient comfort, timeliness, and safety to take into consideration as well. Very few patients look forward to the imposition on their schedules that a doctor visit entails, and even more so when the visit generates any type of anxiety or discomfort.

With a spotlight on enhancing the quality of patient-centered care, Peak Gastroenterology Associates has unveiled a completely renovated, cutting-edge health care destination at 2920 North Cascade Avenue, completely designed and constructed to set a new benchmark in patient care.

Outstanding and compassionate care and

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service throughout every step of the clinic visit, is at the heart of the expansion and renovation project, which consists of three floors of services. Along with a full-service gastroenterology clinic and internal medicine office, the facility also kicks off the state-ofthe-art endoscopy center, SCOPE , (Surgical Center of Peak Endoscopy).

“We completely gutted and redesigned the building from the ground up,” said Prashant Krishnan, MD, gastroenterologist at Peak Gastroenterology Associates. “Everything was designed with specific emphasis on our patients’ experience, including counting the number of steps from the parking lot to the front desk, through the progression of the appointment. From the time our patients walk in the front door until they walk out, we want them to feel like the priority.”

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Your time is valuable, and so is a nurturing culture that is safe and concentrated on your care. The inspired design of Peak Gastroenterology’s new center is effective in decreasing wait times as well as empowering a collaborative approach to patient care. Part of that approach includes cultivating strong relationships with the patient, their families, and referring doctors.

Although wait times for patients are short, the waiting room is a welcoming space with a more secluded area nearby, in case you need a bit more solitude. An internet café with an espresso machine and WiFi is on hand so patients and families can be connected while visiting the center. The layout also expedites patient traffic so entering and departing patients aren’t exiting through the same door, keeping the experience streamlined and

“

Everything was designed with specific emphasis on our patients’ experience, including counting the number of steps from the parking lot to

“

comfortable for everyone.

Now and then patients can be a bit sluggish waking up from anesthesia, so an additional recovery area with relaxing and cozy recliners has been included, making sure incoming patients are always seen in a timely fashion.

“Patients coming in for a procedure typically have family members with them,” said Dr. Bhaktasharan “Buck” Patel, founding partner of Peak Gastroenterology Associates, “so we have made certain all of our prep rooms have plenty of space to accommodate everyone.”

As the new facility was taking shape, the entire team at Peak put themselves in the patient’s shoes to analyze the experience firsthand. Sitting in every chair and lying on each table, they carefully inspected the impact on the patient. “If the lights were too bright, we put on covers to dim them.

We deliberately positioned the exam rooms to facilitate close interaction between provider and patient,” said Dr. Scot Lewey, gastroenterologist at Peak.

Patients of SCOPE are examined with stateof-the-art equipment such as high definition scopes to augment the doctor’s ability to discover the reason for their symptoms. As the only practice in the state of Colorado using Fuse Full Spectrum Endoscopy, the specialists at Peak Gastroenterology have the ability to see even more of the colon at a time during a procedure than before.

Standard colonoscopies give the physician only a limited 170-degree field of view.

But the revolutionary Fuse scopes provide a full 330-degree field of view, making it easier for the gastroenterologist to view more of the colon.

“The colon has many folds and wrinkles where polyps can be hidden, and traditional scopes have only one camera at the tip of the scope,” said Dr. Lukasz Kowalczyk, a gastroenterologist at Peak who specializes in fecal incontinence. “With Fuse, there are two additional cameras, one on each side of the scope, almost doubling the field of view. The new scope has identified more abnormalities than traditional scopes in a recent clinical study.”

Established in 1995, Peak Gastroenterology is the largest gastroenterology clinic in the city, as well as the fastest growing in the state, and plans to add several more providers by the end of the year. Each team member brings unique skills and expertise, contributing to a multifaceted network and making it possible for Peak Gastroenterology to deal with a comprehensive catalogue of digestive tract conditions, which also results in fewer hospitals visits for patients.

Serving a large geographic area, including

the front desk, through the progression of the appointment. From the time our patients walk in the front door until they walk out, we want them to feel like the priority.

– Prashant Krishnan, M.D.

the Pikes Peak region, Castle Rock, Woodland Park, and more, the team has cultivated strong partnerships with local hospital systems and works closely with them in treating patients.

As industry leaders, Peak Gastroenterology is continually keeping an eye on advancing technology and resources that will improve their ability to treat patients with the best possible methods available. In fact, Peak is working closely with the design and engineering team behind the Fuse scopes to assist in creating the next generation of technology and changing the field of gastroenterology across the planet.

“Being able to offer better services to our patients really means we are able to treat them more successfully and save more lives,” said Dr. Krishnan. ✚ THE GAZET TE

Peak Gastroenterology Associates, PC and

SCOPE: Surgical Center

of Peak Endoscopy 2920 N. Cascade Ave. 719-636-1201

Front Range Endoscopy Centers 719 N. Cascade Ave. 719-433-7224

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Stroke Care 101 Penrose-St. Francis Health Services’ stroke neurointerventionist Dr. Vinodh Doss sheds light on stroke warning signs, treatments and how PenroseSt. Francis is positioned to be the leading stroke center in southern Colorado.

Are there different types of strokes?

Vinodh Doss, D.O.

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There are many different types of strokes. The most common form of stroke is ischemic. This is where a clot lodges in an artery within the brain, resulting in a lack of blood flow. That part of the brain would then infarct or die. Hemorrhagic strokes, which account for 15 percent of strokes, have the highest rate of mortality or death.

These types of strokes are bleeding on the brain and are most commonly caused by hypertension, or high blood pressure.

Less common causes are aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations, which may need surgical treatment if discovered.

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What conditions make having a stroke more likely?

Hypertension, obesity, physical inactivity, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, and tobacco use are some of the most common conditions and behaviors that can increase the chance of a stroke. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is the leading cause of stroke and the most controllable. Some studies have shown just reducing your blood pressure to normal limits can reduce your risk of stroke by up to 40 percent. There are certain conditions such as carotid stenosis and atrial fibrillation that increase your risk of stroke if not properly treated. Just having

Does age have anything to do with having a stroke?

Age is a non-modifiable risk factor for stroke. Most of the strokes in the U.S. occur in those over the age of 45. The risk of stroke approximately doubles for each decade of life after the age of 55.

What can a person do to reduce the risk of stroke?

Two of the most important prevention measures are controlling blood pressure and quitting smoking. If you use tobacco, including e-cigarettes, stop. Reducing your weight to the appropriate BMI will pay huge dividends as it can lower blood pressure and cholesterol, as well as reduce the risk of diabetes. Common sense tells us if you eat right and exercise a little you will be better off in general. This is also true in regards to stroke prevention. It is vital that as we age we establish care with a primary care physician.

They can help in so many ways and work with you to develop a plan to combat and control hypertension, diabetes and cholesterol. They can also be a resource in efforts to reduce weight and quitting smoking. If you have a history of stroke/TIA, heart disease, carotid stenosis, or atrial fibrillation you will likely be on some type of anti-thrombotic medication (e.g. aspirin, plavix, warfarin). It is imperative you remain on these medications unless told otherwise as they will reduce your risk of stroke. Likewise, being compliant with your cholesterol, blood pressure and diabetes medications further reduces your risk.

What should a person do if they think they’re having a stroke?

The American Stroke Association suggests keeping the acronym F.A.S.T. in as a guide in the event of potential stroke symptoms: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 911 immediately. Emergency medical services do a fantastic job of getting patients to us in a timely manner. It is a fact that the sooner a patient is brought in, the more likely it will be they will receive acute care. The bottom line is, “time is brain” and the earlier we see the patient the more choices we have and the likelihood of improvement increases.

How soon will a person recover after a stroke?

Depending on the treatments given at the onset of stroke, significant improvement can be seen in the days following the stroke to

F A S T ACE

Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

RMS

Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

PEECH

Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Is their speech slurred or strange?

IME

If the person shows any of these symptoms, call 9-1-1.

STROKE WARNING SIGNS In Colorado, only 13.4 percent of people having a stroke make it to the hospital in time for treatment to break up the clot causing the stroke. Getting treatment fast can save your loved one’s life or spare them from lifelong disability.

“

Depending on the treatments given at the onset of stroke, significant improvement can be seen in the days following the stroke to up to a year afterwards. The brain will begin the healing process almost immediately, but it takes time for it to re-route information.

“

a prior history of stroke or TIA puts you at further risk for another stroke.

up to a year afterwards. The brain will begin the healing process almost immediately, but it takes time for it to re-route information.

Patients are generally assessed while they are an inpatient, then a decision is made on what kind of rehabilitation is appropriate.

This may include self-therapy, home therapy, outpatient therapy, or inpatient rehab.

Are there support groups or counselors available for stroke patients at Penrose-St. Francis?

Yes, we have a team of behavioral health specialists and counselors available for patients and their family members. Some side effects of stroke are irreversible and behavioral changes and post-stroke depression can occur. It is important to remember that stroke is not only a burden to the patient but can have a profound impact on the family. These groups can help from all these points of view and develop coping strategies as family dynamics change. ✚ THE GAZET TE

Specialties and Procedures of Dr. Vinodh Doss: As an experienced neuro-interventionist with a passion for cerebrovascular medicine, Dr. Vinodh Doss is ready to propel the stroke program at Penrose-St. Francis Health Services into a dynamic and successful future.

Doss is board-certified in neurology, vascular neurology and neuroendovascular surgery. He joined Centura Health Physician Group Penrose Neurosciences in January 2016, after serving as a stroke medical director and neuro-interventionist at Semmes-Murphey Clinic and as Assistant Professor in the Departments of Neurology and Neurosurgery at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC).

• Aneurysms, Sroke, TIA, Carotid stenosis, AVM, intracerebral hemorrhage, subarachnoid hemorrhage • Acute stroke (intravenous thrombolytics and endovascular thrombectomy) • Cerebral and spinal angiography • Carotid and intracranial artery stenting • Aneurysm embolization (coiling, flow diversion) • Embolization or arteriovenous malformations/dural fistulas • Head/neck tumor and epistaxis embolization • WADA testing and balloon test occlusions • Petrosal sinus sampling • Cerebral venous sinus stenting for pseudotumor cerebri L E A D I N G M E D I C A L P R O F E S S I O N A L S 2 016

13

CDI:

Aiming to be the change

Dr. Raegan Anderson, founder of Colorado Dermatology Institute Photos by Erica Fellion

When Dr. Reagan Anderson, D.O. founded

BY LESLIE MASSEY, LEADING MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS

the Colorado Dermatology Institute, (CDI),

One of the simplest ways to promote improvement, and to inspire and encourage others to push themselves to reach peak performance, is to lead by example. After all, actions speak louder than words.

So, when Dr. Reagan Anderson, D.O. founded the Colorado Dermatology Institute, (CDI), in 2010, his vision for the business was partly focused on Mahatma Gandhi’s famous quote, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

in 2010, his vision for the business was partly focused on Mahatma Gandhi’s famous quote, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

14 T H E G A Z E T T E

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“Each member of society should take a look at the problems in our country, and in their own small way, try to make a change,” said Dr. Anderson, “We need to stop the sense of entitlement and take ownership.”

As a devoted member of the Colorado Springs community, CDI strives to “be the change,” not only in their efforts to set the highest standards for patient care, but also in supporting the community by honoring other care providers and organizations,

and additionally by providing services and contributing to local and national associations and charities.

While delivering the most up-to-date and comprehensive dermatologic care possible is at the forefront of the CDI philosophy, each member of CDI’s team is devoted to providing

each patient with an experience that exceeds their expectations, every time.

In order to ensure CDI successfully attains the highest quality patient care, they recently endured a rigorous evaluation by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), to become the first dermatology clinic in

America to achieve Level 3 distinction, the highest level of patient-centered specialty practice recognition.

“Receiving this accreditation was an enormous amount of work,” Dr. Anderson said. “Over a year and hundreds and hundreds of hours, testing and analyzing CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

Skin Cancer Awareness: Dr. Anderson’s tips for protecting your skin Along with eating well, exercising and enjoying life, Dr. Anderson suggests moderation and forethought.

“Like wearing your seatbelt in the car — it doesn’t detract from your driving pleasure,” he said. “And like a flat tire, skin cancer is easier to prevent than fix. Take care of it before the tire explodes.”

• Generously apply a broad-spectrum water-resistant sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or more to all exposed skin when outdoors.

• Wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses where possible.

• Seek shade. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

• Protect children from sun exposure by playing in the shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen.

• Avoid tanning beds. Ultraviolet light from tanning beds can cause skin cancer and wrinkling.

Colorado Dermatology Institute 8580 Scarborough Drive, Ste. 225 719-531-5400 CoDerm.com THE GAZET TE

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

policies, procedures, and outcomes.”

The evaluation, by nationally recognized third party NCQA, determined that CDI goes above and beyond to deliver outstanding medical service to its community. In order to maintain Level 3 recognition, CDI must continue its best practices. Therefore, CDI must preserve their philosophy, procedures, commitment to communication, and coordinating care with other providers, to promote the best possible outcome for each patient.

“NCQA Patient-Centered Specialty Practice Recognition distinguishes practices that communicate, collaborate, and integrate care in ways that patients want and that improve quality,” said NCQA President Margaret E. O’Kane. “I commend the team at CDI for their achievement and for their commitment to continuous improvement.”

While acknowledging that nobody’s perfect, Dr. Anderson believes it’s important to never stop trying to be better. “By undergoing this evaluation we were able to discover a couple of areas where we could do better,” he said, “and every couple of years NCQA will retest us to make sure we’re continuing to do our best.”

In addition to offering comprehensive treatments and protocols for general dermatology issues, skin cancer to include Mohs Micrographic Surgery, and cosmetic dermatology, CDI is active in advancing medical research to help develop the next generation of treatments.

Launching the first Dermatology Residency program in Southern Colorado, CDI is filling a need by eagerly training future dermatologists. “Dermatology is one of the most underrepresented medical specialties,” said Dr. Anderson, “and having this residency program will impact Colorado Springs’s reputation as a center for medical education.”

In the same way, an affiliation with the University of Colorado School of Medicine’s Department of Dermatology, helps foster collaboration between the only two dermatology residency programs in the state.

“CU graciously came to me and asked about sharing resources,” he said. “This gives our residents access to university dermatology and some of the most complex cases in the state.”

In alliance with their pledge to provide the best care possible, the team at CDI frequently meets in the morning before work to review, assess, educate, and support one another. “We ask the questions ‘How am I doing? What can I do better,’” said Dr.

In an effort to become more “comfortable in your own skin,” Dr. Anderson recommends “Time Tested Beauty Tips” by renowned American humorist Sam Levenson:

“

16 T H E G A Z E T T E

For attractive lips, speak words of kindness.

For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.

For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry.

For beautiful hair, let a child run his or her fingers through it once a day.

For poise, walk with the knowledge you'll never walk alone.

People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed, and redeemed; Never throw out anybody.

Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you'll find one at the end of your arm.

As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.

The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that she carries, or the way she combs her hair. The beauty of a woman must be seen from in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides.

The beauty of a woman is not in a facial mole, but true beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul. It is the caring that she lovingly gives, the passion that she shows, and the beauty of a woman with passing years only grows!

Anderson. “In every profession, people should take the time to question how they can do better.”

With four doctors on staff, three physician’s assistants, one aesthetician, and a remarkable staff, CDI’s services encompass a complete range of diseases and conditions of the skin, hair and nails. Their goal for every patient, from babies to seniors, is to support patient’s ongoing health and help them become comfortable in their skin.

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“

CDI:

“Being recognized by the NCQA is an incredible feeling, and knowing that we are the first and only dermatology clinic in the nation to receive PCSP recognition is truly an honor,” said Dr. Anderson. “It wouldn’t be possible without our amazing team striving to ensure that every patient who comes through our doors feels the sense of quality patient care, and our outstanding staff who takes customer service seriously for every single visit.” ✚

El Paso County Perspectives Medicine: Answering the Call

a from AAFP Reveals Increased Complexity of Family Physician e: Answering theVisits Call

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BY THERESA WOODS, EL PASO COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY

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To meet the increasing demand and complexity, the medical industry needs not only innovations in medical treatments, but also innovations in the business of providing medical care.

One recommendation for the future is to transform medical practices into environments that enable all health professionals to work together in teams to provide high-quality and efficient health care.

“Six years ago, we had a need,” says Tracey Haas, MD, a family physician, and cofounder of DocbookMD, an app that allows physicians to share HIPAA-compliant information and collaborate virtually. “We went to our hospital, we went to Motorola, we went to big corporations and said, ‘Doctors need to be able to communicate better, but we have to do it in a secure way,’ and we got laughed at. So we started our own company, and we really think physicians stepping in to answer a problem is a trend.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

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of family physicians have seen of family physicians have seen an increase in patients’ severity an increase in patients’ severity of complications. of complications.

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17

are built on a strong foundation of ythat leuqpatients inu erahave better health, smetsyscare. erac Now, hFamily tlaehmore nehphysicians wthan stsoever, c primary higher quality of care, and lower teemCounty ot deppiuqe El Paso fofamily noitadphysicians nuof gnortsare a nmaking ouniquely tliub eran a are costs when health care systems .egnellahc eht ,reimpact ve naht as erothe m ,wU.S. oN8.health erout ac yrcare atomimeet rp equipped Perspectives: of 10 are built on a strong foundation of na gnikamoves m era stoward nthe aicisychallenge. hp ylimaf value-based primary care. Now, more thansystem ever, family physicians CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

erac htmodels. laeh .S.U eht sa tcapmi family physicians are making payment an desab-eulav drawot have sevom the metsycapacity s impact as the U.S. health care .sledom tnemyap system moves toward value-based to accept newly Locally, Karen Anthony is part of this models. trend. In response topayment the centralization of insured patients. pathology services locally, she reinvented f foher medical practice, Colorado Springs Associates, to deliver customized naPathology solutions and services for physicians and of family physicians saidof f fopatients. “Our service offerings are a direct an response to medical provider needs and they have experienced an dias snaicisyhp ylimaf fo wants. For example, on-site frozen section of c service facilitates more efficient use of the increase in the number of n a d e c n e i r e p x e e v a h y e h t physician’s time by optimizing his/her daily of family physicians said workflow, and provides a rapid diagnosis fo rebmun eht ni esaercni health issues addressed in for the patient. We believe that being able they have experienced an visits annually to offer innovations such as this will help n i d e s s e r d d a s e u s s i h t l a eh a single office visit. physicians and patients on many levels.” increase in the number of “Once you have a good idea from a clinical .tisiv eciffo econduct lgnis a Family healthphysicians issues addressed in point of view, there’s an awful lot of other stuff that has to be executed to make that one in five office visits. a single office visit. a reality,” says Robert Spitz, MD, Medical

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director for Coastal Connecticut Research and a member of the Society of Physician Entrepreneurs. Dr. Anthony agrees. “There have been a number of profound changes to the practice since the transition. The major change is the ability to make adjustments to service delivery in a very rapid way. There is no bureaucracy bogging down the planning and execution of our mission.”

“The era of the physician entrepreneur may be coming to a close. Said David Dranove in his HealthCare Blog. “For any number of reasons — the costs of maintaining a practice, uncertainty about future market conditions, or a waning desire for the long hours and administrative tasks that come with entrepreneurship — most new physicians are opting for employment at large hospital systems and multispecialty medical groups.

As employees they will continue to care for patients and save lives, but they will no longer have ultimate responsibility for their successes or failures.”

“Keeping services local keeps revenue local, which strengthens our community, and also creates jobs in the local community,” said Dr. Anthony. “Local businesses also tend to use other local businesses for needed services and they pay local taxes. All of these factors help build a resilient community and stimulate the local economy. If you live here, and work here, spend your money on services

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18 T H E G A Z E T T E

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locally. This builds strong families too.”

Primary Care, Family Medicine, Family Practice, and Internal Medicine physicians, often treat a larger percentage of complex conditions than many sub-specialists — most notably circulatory, endocrine and respiratory disorders.

According to a recent snapshot survey of Family Practice physicians, the number of health concerns being addressed in a single office visit is increasing, and the number of patients with severe health complications is increasing as well. Almost 80 percent of visits made by adults with diabetes to subspecialists involved care for that single diagnosis; while 55 percent of visits to

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additional diagnosis. Ninety percent of visits in which four diagnoses were reported were to primary care physicians.

It is essential to look at the breadth of what’s being addressed within each office visit to measure complexity, and consider various measures of the complexity of care physicians provide in a single visit.

Research has consistently shown that patients have better health, higher quality of care, and lower costs when health care systems are built on a strong foundation of primary care. Now, more than ever, family physicians are making an impact as the U.S. health care system moves toward valuebased payment models. ✚

KEEPING YOUR FAMILY HEALTHY IS IMPORTANT TO US Kaiser Permanente offers pediatric care for our tiniest members in Colorado Springs.

EXCELLENT CARE, FROM BABIES TO TEENS. Our physicians love what they do and take time to listen to you and understand your child’s needs.

Kaiser Permanente medical offices offer pharmacy, laboratory, and medical imaging under one roof, so you have more time for everything else.

Kaiser Permanente Briargate Medical Offices Audrey M. Hall, MD, Pediatrics Peace of mind. Dr. Hall is a Colorado native, studied medicine at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, MD, and is board certified in pediatrics.

4105 Briargate Parkway, Suite 125 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 719-282-2520 ni o

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And with care available by office visit, email, phone, online, video visits, and more, we’re always here when you need us. Appointments now available to Kaiser Permanente members.

Now accepting pediatric patients at our Briargate Colorado Springs location:

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To learn more about how we can help your family thrive, visit kp.org/thrive or call 1-888-681-7878.

Family Pl.

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AM L E A D I N G M E D I C A L P R O F E S S I O N A3/31/16 L S 2 0 110:36 6 19

NATIONAL AWARD-WINNING PRACTICE RI G H T H E R E AT H OM E

Colorado Dermatology Institute is honored to be the first and only dermatology clinic in the nation to earn the highest level of national recognition for delivering quality care to its patients, referring providers and the community.

Patient Care Takes Paramount Importance Recognized through the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), CDI received the highest level recognition possible as a Patient-Centered Specialty Practice (PCSP) for their level of quality patient care.

Enhancing Patient Access & Experience NCQA Recognition attests to CDIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s emphasis on a rigorous and team-centered approach to addressing each patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s issue with best practice protocols, efficiency and consultation for individualized, comprehensive and synergistic treatment for the best possible outcome for every patient.

Above: Reagan Anderson, DO Board Certified Dermatologist at CDI

About Colorado Dermatology Institute (CDI) CDI is a full service dermatologic care facility

comfortable in your skin

TM

This level of individualized care becomes increasingly important to maintaining a good quality of life.

providing services in Mohs Micrographic surgery

CDIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goal and privilege is to treat the many conditions

for skin cancer, general dermatology and cosmetic

of the skin, hair and nails for the ongoing health of all

procedures and is the first and only dermatology clinic in the nation to receive NCQA Recognition

patients so that they can be comfortable in their skin.

as a Patient-Centered Specialty Practice (PCSP).

For more information connect on social media or visit, CoDerm.com 20 T H E G A Z E T T E

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8580 Scarborough Drive, #225 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 719.531.5400