your partner in health
IN THIS ISSUE
• Providing Accessible Healthcare to All
• The Importance of Primary Care
• Early Detection is Everything: A Personal Story of Breast Cancer Detection
A LETTER FROM THE CEO
Dear Friends,
As we enter the fall season, it’s a wonderful time to reflect on the exciting developments happening at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital (WCCH) and how we continue to serve our community with dedication and care.
We are thrilled to announce the addition of Dr. J.L. Sepulvado, primary care physician, to our medical staff. Dr. Sepulvado will be seeing patients at Primary Care Associates of WCCH, formerly known as Schlamp Family Medical Clinic. He will be providing care alongside Emily Scuden, FNP-C, and Maureen Poe, GNP-C, as we continue the legacy of the late Dr. Kevin Schlamp.
In another significant milestone, we recently celebrated the ribbon-cutting for the newly renovated OBG-1 clinic. With this renovation, we have not only expanded our space, but also enhanced the services we provide. With the improvements, we are better positioned to serve the women in our community with comprehensive, state-of-the-art care. We are excited about the future of OBG-1 and the role it will play in promoting women’s health across our region. Our providers include Dr. Scott Bergstedt, Dr. Uzma Naeem, Certified Nurse Midwife Allison Hansen and Jadah Granger, FNP-C.
October also brings with it a very special event: the 20th annual Ethel Precht Walk on October 19. This year, we honor two decades of hope and celebrate the legacy of Ms. Ethel Mae Precht, who left an enduring impact on breast cancer patients and survivors in Calcasieu and Cameron Parishes. It’s a meaningful occasion for us to come together and continue the mission she so passionately pursued.
Additionally, we are proud to announce that the WCCH Foundation will continue the mission of the Calcasieu Community Clinic, providing accessible healthcare to working, low-income, uninsured individuals in our area. In support of this mission, we recently hosted the annual “Wine Down, Vino 101” fundraiser, raising much-needed funds to continue offering essential healthcare services to those in need.
As we look ahead to 2025 and beyond, we are energized by the progress we’ve made and the plans we have in store. We remain committed to advancing healthcare in our community with compassion, innovation and excellence.
Thank you for your continued trust and support of WCCH.
Sincerely,
Janie D. Frugé, CEO West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital
NEWS
20 YEARS OF HOPE: ETHEL PRECHT BREAST CANCER WALK OF WCCH RETURNS OCTOBER 19
This October, join us in celebrating a remarkable milestone as the Ethel Precht Hope Breast Cancer Walk marks its 20th anniversary. This special event, organized by the West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital (WCCH) Foundation, brings together the community to honor breast cancer survivors, remember those who have lost their battle and raise vital funds to support local individuals undergoing treatment. The Ethel Precht Hope Breast Cancer Walk of WCCH will take place on Saturday, October 19, at the Lake Charles Event Center – Front Lawn.
“Last fall, the Ethel Precht Hope Breast Cancer Walk of WCCH raised over $105,000, with more than 2,000 participants,” says Matthew Welsh, chief marketing & community impact officer of WCCH. “We are immensely proud to think of the number of lives we’ve transformed by being a resource to our local breast cancer patients. Celebrating our 20th anniversary is a testament to the community’s unwavering support and commitment to this vital cause.”
Monies raised benefit individuals from Calcasieu and Cameron parishes who are undergoing breast cancer treatment, helping fund things such as wigs, prostheses, payment of medical bills and expenses related to cancer treatments.
Ethel Precht began the breast cancer survivors walk in 2004 after her own diagnosis of breast cancer years prior.
Nearly 20 years after holding the first walk, her vision and legacy live on. The WCCH Foundation continues her mission through the Ethel Precht Hope Breast Cancer Program of WCCH.
Walk registration is open. We encourage local businesses and individuals to join us in supporting this meaningful event.
To learn more about the walk, visit ethelbreastcancerwalk.org, call (337) 527-4144 or scan the QR code below.
REGISTER HERE
WCCH WELCOMES J.L. SEPULVADO, MD
J.L. Sepulvado, MD, primary care physician, has joined the medical staff of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital. Dr. Sepulvado is now seeing patients at Primary Care Associates, located at 920 1st Avenue in Sulphur, formerly Schlamp Family Medical Clinic.
Dr. Sepulvado received his medical degree from Louisiana State University and completed his residency at Lake Charles Memorial Health System’s Family Medicine Residency Program. He specializes in primary care for patients of all ages.
Primary Care Associates provides wellness screenings, immunizations and disease prevention and management. Dr. Sepulvado is accepting new patients. Early morning appointments are available. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (337) 527-6385
WEST CALCASIEU CAMERON HOSPITAL CELEBRATES THE GRAND REOPENING OF RENOVATED OBG-1 CLINIC
West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital (WCCH) proudly celebrated the grand reopening of its newly renovated OBG-1 Clinic on Tuesday, August 27.
CEO Janie Frugé emphasized the clinic’s commitment to comprehensive women’s care, from adolescence through menopause. Board Chairman Bobby LeTard highlighted the state-of-the-art technology and personalized services. Providers, including Dr. Scott Bergstedt, Dr. Uzma Naeem, Certified Nurse Midwife Allison Hansen, Jadah Granger, FNP-C, and Marilyn Watson, FNP-C, were honored for their contributions.
“The renovation expands both our capacity and quality of care,” said Dr. Naeem. “We are accepting new patients and are here to serve as lifelong partners in women’s health.”
The clinic offers a wide range of services, including obstetric care, gynecology, midwifery and surgical care.
OBG-1 of WCCH is located at 1200 Stelly Lane and is open Monday through Friday. The clinic is now accepting new patients. Call (337) 312-1000 or visit obg1ofwcch.com for more information or to schedule an appointment.
HEALING AT HOME
November is National Home Care Month
Comfort. Familiarity. Privacy. When faced with recovering from a health challenge, most people would choose to be home, in their familiar surroundings. In fact, studies show individuals heal faster when recovering in the comfort of home.
West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital’s Home Health Agency delivers care to homes across the area. Rita Manuel in Westlake is a testament to the exceptional care provided by the team. She was hospitalized with fluid around her heart and part of her recovery plan was to learn how to eat a low sodium/low sugar diet and to test her blood sugar amount on a regular basis.
“My nurse taught me how to test my blood sugar, she gave me ideas on what to eat, she took my vitals at every visit,” explains Manuel. “And, she cheered me up on bad days.”
The WCCH home health team provides not only physical care but offers that emotional component also. “Sometimes, the only visit one of our patients receives that day is their home health nurse. Our patients often look forward to the visits,” explains Anne Broussard, RN, WCCH Home Health Administrator.
“I enjoyed the company,” Manuel says, “and the help she gave me. Home Health came two times a week, then once a week for two months.”
Home health provides an individualized care plan, putting into action the directives from the physician, and maintaining continuous contact with the physician on the status of the patient. It can also increase a patient’s independence by allowing them to remain at home while receiving the care needed.
“All of our nurses are RNs, which adds to the quality care our patients receive,” explains Broussard. “We offer nursing care as well as physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy. Our team delivers care with compassion and optimism, always working to bring the patient to their highest level of function.”
The Home Health team at WCCH has received many honors throughout their almost 40-year history, including the most recent one for Outstanding Patient Satisfaction by the Home Health Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems, received two years in a row.
Manuel admits being hesitant about having home health services, but says, “I am glad I had them. I would recommend them to anyone. They were beneficial to my recovery, and they’re friendly and pleasant.”
WCCH Home Health Agency accepts patients within a 50-mile radius of the WCCH campus located in Sulphur. For more information, please call (337) 527-4362 or visit wcch.com
PROVIDING ACCESSIBLE CARE TO ALL: The Community Health Center of WCCH is
Here for You
Open to all patients and offering a variety of services, the Community Health Center of WCCH (CHC) is one of the best places to receive quick, quality care in Sulphur, La.
Located on the hospital campus, to the west of the main entrance off Stelly Lane, the health center has 19 patient exam rooms, laboratory draw capabilities and medical and surgical procedural rooms. The services offered range from primary care and walk-ins to gynecology and surgical care. Wound care is also provided.
One of the standout features of the CHC is its short wait times, something that has not gone unnoticed by patients. Anna Reuber, FNP-C, nurse practitioner at the CHC says, “Patients have consistently shared their appreciation for the quick service. The convenience of being seen without a long wait has translated to the CHC being their go-to place for minor illnesses and walk-in care.” The center’s walk-in services for minor injuries, illnesses and vaccines are available seven days a week, with extended hours Monday through Saturday for added convenience.
In addition to fast service, the wide variety of services offered at the CHC has garnered praise. “It has truly been a
needed service in our community,” says Dr. Van Snider, with the CHC. “With the resources of the hospital, we’re able to offer everything from routine checkups to wound care, all in one place.” This breadth of care means that patients can address a variety of health concerns without needing to travel far or juggle multiple appointments, streamlining their healthcare experience.
The positive feedback from patients highlights the impact the CHC has had on the community. “Patients have told us they’re relieved to have access to quality healthcare so close to home,” Reuber says. “We’re here to meet their needs with efficiency and compassion, and we’ll continue expanding our services to ensure that everyone in the community can receive the care they need, when they need it.” With continued support and a growing patient base, the Community Health Center at WCCH stands as a beacon of accessible, patient-centered care. All patients are accepted, including those with Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance and no insurance.
Van Snider, MD, family medicine physician with the Community Health Center of WCCH, examines a patient.
The providers associated with the CHC include:
PRIMARY CARE
Dr. Van Snider
Anna Reuber, FNP-C
Yvonne Alexander, FNP-C
Kari Cherp, DNP
GYNECOLOGY
Jadah Granger, FNP-C
Dr. Scott Bergstedt
Certified Nurse Midwife Allison Hansen
SURGICAL SERVICES
Dr. Walter Ledet
Dr. Stephen Castleberry
Dr. Matthew Ayo
Dr. Devin Seale
WOUND CARE
Dr. Daniel Hall
Dr. Andrew Davies
Dr. Maureen Lannan
The hours of the Community Health Center are: Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m; and Sunday, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call (337) 310-0395
THE IMPORTANCE OF PRIMARY CARE:
Why Annual Screenings, Vaccines and Checkups Are Essential for Your Health
Hospitals and doctor's offices are often places we think about only when we or our loved ones are sick. However, a proactive approach to your health—by utilizing primary care—can save you time, money and enhance your long-term well-being. Preventive care, such as annual screenings, vaccines and routine checkups, ensures that you stay in control of your health while avoiding complications down the line.
"Prevention is the key to maintaining your health," says Dr. J.L. Sepulvado of Primary Care Associates of WCCH. "By addressing potential health issues early, we can prevent them from becoming larger, more expensive problems. It’s about creating a personalized plan for each patient so they can thrive."
STAY ONE STEP AHEAD WITH ANNUAL CHECKUPS
Annual checkups are essential for catching potential health issues early. By staying on top of your health, your primary care provider will gain a thorough understanding of your medical history, risk factors and lifestyle. This allows them to offer personalized advice and interventions to keep you at your healthiest.
“Annual checkups are the best way to stay in the know about your health. You’re more likely to catch an issue early, which means we can treat it more effectively and in less invasive ways,” Dr. Sepulvado explains.
VACCINES: AN ESSENTIAL LAYER OF PROTECTION
Vaccines play a critical role in preventive care by protecting you from serious, potentially life-threatening diseases. Staying up to date on recommended vaccines doesn’t just safeguard your health, but also protects your community by reducing the spread of infectious diseases. It’s a simple step that can prevent a host of complications and ensure that your immune system is always ready to defend you.
SCREENINGS: DETECT EARLY, TREAT EARLY
Regular screenings, such as blood pressure checks, cholesterol tests, cancer screenings and diabetes assessments, are vital in spotting conditions before they escalate. These screenings are designed to catch diseases at their earliest, most treatable stages. Your primary care provider uses these results to create a comprehensive, ongoing plan to manage your health.
SAVING TIME AND MONEY IN THE LONG RUN
Time is arguably your most valuable resource, and annual checkups and screenings can save you precious time. With a preventive care plan in place, your health provider can help you avoid long hospital stays, costly procedures and time-consuming treatments down the road. When health issues are addressed before they spiral into emergencies, you spend less time worrying about your health and more time doing the things you love.
Dr. Sepulvado adds, “Regular checkups and screenings create a pathway for better, more holistic care. It’s about catching small problems before they turn into major emergencies that take up more of your time and resources."
Prevention today leads to a healthier tomorrow. When you make annual checkups and screenings part of your routine, you’re investing in your long-term health. By staying ahead of potential issues, you improve your overall quality of life, ensuring that you’re able to maintain an active, independent lifestyle for years to come.
Primary care and preventive measures such as annual checkups, screenings and vaccines are essential steps in safeguarding your health. As Dr. Sepulvado puts it, “Preventive care isn’t just about addressing what’s wrong; it’s about staying healthy so you can live your life fully and without interruption.” Take the time now to prioritize your health, and reap the benefits of a healthier, more vibrant future.
Primary Care Associates is located at 920 1st Avenue in Sulphur. To schedule an appointment, please call (337) 527-6385.
Early Detection is Everything
A Personal Story of Breast Cancer Detection
Even though October is awash with pink breast cancer awareness messages – we see the pink ribbons on billboards, TV, products in stores, even the NFL players wear pink in support of breast cancer research – it’s still up to each woman to make that phone call and schedule a mammogram.
The reality is, ready or not, breast cancer can strike at any time. Catching it early gives women a fighting chance of beating it.
One breast cancer patient from Sulphur is glad she caught it early. She discovered a lump and consulted her primary care physician, Kenneth Thomas, MD, with The Cypress Clinic in Sulphur. She had a digital mammogram at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital and admits this was her first mammogram. “Before, I was not a believer in mammogram screenings, but now I can see how beneficial they are in early detection,” she says.
Dr. Thomas quickly referred her to Stephen Castleberry, MD, general surgeon with Sulphur Surgical Clinic. She also benefited from the help of WCCH’s breast health navigator, who helped direct her through the various tests needed. The breast health navigation program at WCCH provides a certified expert to each patient, ensuring they receive timely diagnosis and treatment, eliminating barriers to care, assisting with follow-up appointments and making sure each patient efficiently moves through the care delivery system.
Given the size of the lump, Dr. Castleberry did a needle biopsy procedure, which revealed a positive result for cancer. A sentinel node biopsy was done to determine whether or not the lymph nodes had been affected.
As Dr. Castleberry explained to the patient, a sentinel node biopsy can detect a tumor’s progress. “Breast cancer can spread to other areas of the body through lymph nodes near the armpits. Years ago, doctors would typically remove the bulk of the lymph node tissue, about 10 to 15 lymph nodes, that drains the breasts. However, because many stage one or two breast cancers have no cancer in the lymph nodes,
these nodes are often removed needlessly.”
Sentinel nodes are the first lymph nodes to which cancer cells are most likely to spread from a tumor. During a sentinel lymph node biopsy, doctors remove the sentinel nodes, typically one to three, and examine them to determine whether cancer cells are present.
“By identifying these lymph nodes, the disease’s progress can be accurately determined,” Dr. Castleberry says. “And if the nodes are disease free, it indicates the cancer has not spread, and nearby lymph nodes don’t need to be removed.”
Keeping the majority of the lymph nodes is important because removing them often complicates recovery after surgery as well as hinders chemotherapy or radiation treatment. “Trauma to the lymphatic system, known as lymphedema, frequently causes swelling, burning, pain and disability in the arm next to the tumor site,” Dr. Castleberry explains. “This lifelong condition affects breast cancer survivors. Some sentinel lymph node biopsy drastically reduces the risk of developing lymphedema, which is good news for breast cancer patients.”
The patient credits the sentinel lymph node biopsy with helping her maintain her arm flexibility and strength after her procedure. “When Dr. Castleberry explained the procedure to me, and told me it was available locally, I was more than willing to give it a try,” she says.
She is thankful for her quick recovery and quality of life. “I feel fortunate to have access to an experienced and caring team of physicians and staff in my community,” she says. “From the doctors, the mammographers and breast health navigator to each staff member who helped me along my journey, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”
For more information on resources available about breast cancer detection and prevention, call (337) 528-7320
Many women continue to delay getting a mammogram. If you’ve made excuses, here are some reasons to help convince you that now is the time:
1. Your risk increases as you age. More than 75 percent of women diagnosed with breast cancer are age 50 or older. For this reason, and because mammography is generally safe and effective, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends this screening once a year beginning at the age of 40.
2. You have a family history of breast cancer. In this case, your physician might have recommended regular mammograms earlier than age 40 or an annual MRI scan.
3. You’re overweight and do not eat a balanced diet. Carrying excess weight, especially after menopause, can increase your risk for breast cancer.
4. You’re a couch potato. Lack of physical exercise can increase your odds of developing breast cancer. The goal is moderate activity for 30 minutes or more five or more days of the week.
5. You average more than one alcoholic drink a day. Studies show that alcohol consumption can put you at higher risk for breast cancer, both before and after menopause.
6. You found a thickening or lump in your breast. Even a mammogram isn’t always perfect at detecting abnormalities, your own exams count, too. If you find a breast lump, despite a normal mammogram, have it checked right away by your doctor.
701 Cypress Street Sulphur, LA 70663
Contact us
For questions about any of the information in this publication, call the West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital marketing department at (337) 528-4735.
Healthwise is published by West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital to provide general health information. It is not intended to provide personal medical advice, which should be obtained directly from a physician.
Please Recycle This Publication. ©2024 West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital
12 TIPS
GET VACCINATED
Schedule an appointment today by calling 337-527-6385
WELCOME
J.L. Sepulvado, MD, primarycarephysician
for Avoiding Respiratory Illnesses this Fall
Stay up-to-date on flu and COVID-19 vaccines to reduce the risk of severe illness.
PRACTICE GOOD HAND HYGIENE
Wash hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing or touching surfaces.
WEAR A MASK IN CROWDED PLACES
Consider wearing a mask in crowded or enclosed areas to reduce exposure to airborne viruses.
COVER COUGHS AND SNEEZES
Use a tissue or your elbow to cover coughs and sneezes, and dispose of tissues immediately.
AVOID TOUCHING YOUR FACE
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands to prevent germs from entering your body.
DISINFECT FREQUENTLY TOUCHED SURFACES
Regularly clean high-touch surfaces like door handles, light switches and mobile devices to reduce the spread of germs.
IMPROVE INDOOR VENTILATION
Open windows or use air purifiers to increase airflow and reduce the concentration of airborne particles indoors.
STAY HYDRATED
Drink plenty of fluids to keep your immune system functioning properly.
EAT A BALANCED DIET
Consume a variety of fruits, vegetables and proteins to support immune health.
GET REGULAR EXERCISE
Stay active to help boost your immune system and overall well-being.
AVOID SMOKING AND EXPOSURE TO POLLUTANTS
Refrain from smoking and limit exposure to secondhand smoke or air pollutants, which can weaken lung function.
STAY HOME IF YOU’RE SICK
If you're experiencing symptoms, stay home to avoid spreading illness to others.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Please join us for a variety of classes and events designed for your good health. To learn more, please visit wcch.com.
HEALTHY MEALS
COOKING
DEMONSTRATION
October 15
ETHEL PRECHT HOPE
BREAST CANCER WALK
October 19
SHOTS FOR TOTS
October 9, 14, 21 and 30 BREASTFEEDING AND DELIVERY CLASS
October 22 and November 19 PINK CRUSADES BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
October 10, Breast Cancer Survivor Celebration November 14, Radiation Oncology
DIABETES AWARENESS
SEMINAR
November 12