July 2013 / Issue #001 / 3rd Quarter
THE LATEST NEWS
Quarterly Newsletter For Our Patients, Families, And Communities
Look for our ad in the St. Louis Cardinals GameDay Magazine!
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Branch Events
June 24: This year marked the 161st Macoupin County Fair which began on June 24 and ran through the 29. VNA-TIP HealthCare staff of the Carlinville office provided free blood pressure screenings on June 26 for the fair’s “Senior Day.” July 14: The Clinton County Fair had another seven days of excitement for the 62nd annual fair on Sunday, July 14 through 20. VNA-TIP HealthCare staff participated in the Clinton County Fair Parade on Monday, July 15. The theme was “Country Pride, Country Wide.” July 26: Clinical Liason, Alechia Sveda attended Family Fun Night at Pinckneyville Fairgrounds from 5-9 p.m. on behalf of VNA-TIP HealthCare.
STARLIGHT WISH
August 31: VNA-TIP HealthCare will be supporting the Alzheimer’s Association in a big way this year by participating in the Walk To End Alzheimer’s at Busch Stadium on August 31. We ramped up our efforts by involving a large company-wide team. Contests, events, giveaways and more aided in raising funds and helped us surpass our goal of $2,000. Fundraising website: act.alz.org/goto/vnatip See insert for other walks to participate in!
Branch Anniversaries 15 YEARS
Centralia Hospice
July 1998
10 YEARS
Mt. Carmel Hospice
September 2003
8 YEARS
Carlinville HomeCare
August 2005
8 YEARS
Carlinville Hospice
July 2005
5 YEARS
Belleville HomeCare
September 2007
CLINTON COUNTY PARADE
IN THIS ISSUE
Staff Happenings
Plan. Prevent. Protect. -Flu Facts
Starlight Wish TIP Hospice offers the StarLight Wish program that seeks to fulfill a special wish of a hospice patient. Toby, a Bridgeton hospice patient, is a huge St. Louis Cardinals fan. Part one of Toby’s wish was presented in the form of a Cardinals themed birthday party at his nursing facility while a day game was on TV. All residents and staff were invited to celebrate. For part two of the wish the St. Louis Cardinals “stepped up to the plate” and donated a tour of Busch Stadium for Toby, his friends, family and TIP staff that included the opportunity to watch batting practice! Thanks to everyone who made this happy celebration possible. Service Awards Luncheon On March 27, VNA-TIP HealthCare celebrated and recognized 93 employees who have been with the company for 3, 5, 10 and 15 years during the annual Service Awards Luncheon. Lunch and an awards ceremony was held at Lotawata Creek Southern Grill in Fairview Heights, IL. Employees were honored with plaques, pins and certificates.
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3440 De Paul Lane, Suite 201 Bridgeton, MO 63044 Phone: 314.595.6800 Web: vnatip.com
Focusing On HealthCare Everyday
FARMINGTON PARADE
Connect with Us!
Teamwork & Excellence 3440 De Paul Lane, Suite 201 Phone: 314.595.6800 Bridgeton, MO 63044 Web: vnatip.com
Back To Basics With Home Safety Pain Awareness Vaccination Clinics & Walk-Ins We Support Alzheimer’s Awareness Staff Spotlight The Latest News
TEAM OF DIRECTORS
Plan. Prevent. Protect. 1 in 5
SUZY WINEBARGER President LIZ LANDRETH Executive Vice President
child deaths are caused by pneumonia
SUSAN MORGAN Director of TIP Hospice
VNA-TIP HOMECARE: Back To Basics With Home Safety Summer is upon us and that means back-to-school
Flu season peaks in January or February and can occur as late as May
activities are right around the corner. While families may be busy preparing children for a new school year, safety within the home for patients living with loved ones should
SARA EGGERING Regional Director of Missouri HomeCare MARCY COX Director of Vaccinations & Private Duty PAULA RAYMOND Director of Administration
2-3
MILLION
Immunizations prevent deaths per year
Last year Americans missed 70 million workdays due to the flu
25
26
27
28
MARK HORTON Director of Business Development SANDY LERCZAK Business Development Manager
Immunization Quick Facts
Immunizations work by strengthening the body’s own immune system
Through
VNA-TIP HealthCare understands the importance of your
September is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and TIP Hospice
health, so we’ve created a program to help educate our
recognizes the need to understand the facts about
patients, families and communities on healthcare related
Alzheimer’s
topics for everyday use.
misconception, (listed on TIP Hospice’s “10 Misconceptions
HealthCare 365 supports a national healthcare “theme” for every month of the year, which are all listed in our staff calendar. July is “UV Safety Awareness Month;” a great time to share the message of sun, fun and UV safety to the community. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the main cause of
and
expel
the
myths.
One
about Alzheimer’s Disease” flyer), is that Alzheimer’s Disease only affects “older people.” The fact is that the first person discovered to have the disease was only 51-years-old and rare, inherited forms of the disease can strike people as young as in their 30’s.
skin cancer and can also damage eyes. You can take these steps to help prevent skin cancer: • Stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. (when UV rays are most powerful) • Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher • Cover up and wear a hat Getting the facts straight on diseases such as Alzheimer’s, as As August approaches, don’t forget about vaccinations! [Look
well as UV safety precautions and vaccinations, are just a few
for
of the things VNA-TIP HealthCare does to ensure expert,
immunizations on the insert.]
VNA-TIP
HealthCare
quality care for patients.
program, VNA-TIP
• Arrange furniture to create clear pathways between rooms to decrease the chances of a fall or injury.
• Use double-sided adhesive tape or rubber matting on the backs of rugs to help prevent an injury.
• Is there appropriate lighting for night time? Keep a
lamp close to the bed or nightlights in key locations to help prevent falls.
• Use non-skid mats in and around the tub or shower,
along with handrails strategically placed near the bath tub or toilet, to help prevent bathroom related injuries.
As summer ends, caregiver’s focus may shift to children
move patients toward independence. Our staff of home
returning to school or other fall activities. Home health
health professionals are available to offer in-home safety
patients may experience “empty nest” syndrome when a
assessments to help ensure the safety of a loved one or partner.
To schedule a home safety assessment: call: 800.642.6099 | visit: vnatip.com
HEALTHCARE 365: Focusing On HealthCare Everyday disease
Balanced”
physician to provide a customized plan of care which will
59% of home surfaces can be contaminated with the flu virus
200,000+ annual hospitalizations are from flu-related complications
the “Living
HomeCare’s team of experts works closely with a patient’s
NICOLE BREWER Creative Director
about
side-effects from prescription drugs should all be considered when dealing with patient safety.
ROBINE CARRON Director of Billing & Collections
information
threat of falling is a serious concern. Factors such as decreased muscle tone and eyesight, tripping hazards and
SHARON BILLINGSLEY Director of HR & Payroll
more
also be a top priority. For many homecare patients, the
TIPS TO REMEMBER:
home that has been lively and busy for the summer months becomes quiet again. Volunteering can be the perfect outlet for patients who are able and wish to begin a new start of their own.
TIP HOSPICE: Recognizes September As Pain Awareness Month September is National Pain Awareness Month. The purpose of the campaign is to promote education, advocacy and awareness and to also improve effective pain management options. As providers of pain management in a hospice setting, TIP Hospice utilizes extensive tools and knowledge to manage a patient’s pain while attempting to minimize side effects. Pain is assessed at the beginning and end of each visit; where patients can use TIP Hospice’s “Pain Ruler” tool to help identify their pain. Clinicians also pay close attention to the site or sites of pain on the patient’s body. The pain ruler or Flacc Scale are particularly useful tools for non-verbal patients to identify their level of pain. At a level “3” or above on the pain ruler, TIP Hospice clinicians follow up with patients within 24 hours by visit or phone call to assess treatment effectiveness. TIP Hospice clinicians also utilize the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Pain Relief Ladder, which systematically helps health care providers to manage patient pain. The ladder is a three-step model which guides patients through medications to control their pain without over-medicating. Sometimes medications, such as
NSAIDs, anti-depressants or steroids combined with pain medications can combat patient pain without increasing the pain medication dosage. By integrating tools, following a process to assess and treat pain and specialized pain knowledge, TIP Hospice works with the patient and family to relieve discomfort with a systematic approach to ensure proper treatment. The goal is to reduce and stabilize pain symptoms and improve the quality of life, which is achieved through an individualized treatment plan. There is not a blanket approach to pain management, especially in hospice care. Providing information and choices to patients and families is important to clinicians. TIP Hospice is dedicated to patient safety and makes every effort to deliver excellent pain management care from a staff of professionals. Since 1978, TIP Hospice has been committed to preserving the quality and integrity of life and remains dedicated to nurturing and caring for patients as well as their families.
TEAM OF DIRECTORS
Plan. Prevent. Protect. 1 in 5
SUZY WINEBARGER President LIZ LANDRETH Executive Vice President
child deaths are caused by pneumonia
SUSAN MORGAN Director of TIP Hospice
VNA-TIP HOMECARE: Back To Basics With Home Safety Summer is upon us and that means back-to-school
Flu season peaks in January or February and can occur as late as May
activities are right around the corner. While families may be busy preparing children for a new school year, safety within the home for patients living with loved ones should
SARA EGGERING Regional Director of Missouri HomeCare MARCY COX Director of Vaccinations & Private Duty PAULA RAYMOND Director of Administration
2-3
MILLION
Immunizations prevent deaths per year
Last year Americans missed 70 million workdays due to the flu
25
26
27
28
MARK HORTON Director of Business Development SANDY LERCZAK Business Development Manager
Immunization Quick Facts
Immunizations work by strengthening the body’s own immune system
Through
VNA-TIP HealthCare understands the importance of your
September is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and TIP Hospice
health, so we’ve created a program to help educate our
recognizes the need to understand the facts about
patients, families and communities on healthcare related
Alzheimer’s
topics for everyday use.
misconception, (listed on TIP Hospice’s “10 Misconceptions
HealthCare 365 supports a national healthcare “theme” for every month of the year, which are all listed in our staff calendar. July is “UV Safety Awareness Month;” a great time to share the message of sun, fun and UV safety to the community. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the main cause of
and
expel
the
myths.
One
about Alzheimer’s Disease” flyer), is that Alzheimer’s Disease only affects “older people.” The fact is that the first person discovered to have the disease was only 51-years-old and rare, inherited forms of the disease can strike people as young as in their 30’s.
skin cancer and can also damage eyes. You can take these steps to help prevent skin cancer: • Stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. (when UV rays are most powerful) • Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher • Cover up and wear a hat Getting the facts straight on diseases such as Alzheimer’s, as As August approaches, don’t forget about vaccinations! [Look
well as UV safety precautions and vaccinations, are just a few
for
of the things VNA-TIP HealthCare does to ensure expert,
immunizations on the insert.]
VNA-TIP
HealthCare
quality care for patients.
program, VNA-TIP
• Arrange furniture to create clear pathways between rooms to decrease the chances of a fall or injury.
• Use double-sided adhesive tape or rubber matting on the backs of rugs to help prevent an injury.
• Is there appropriate lighting for night time? Keep a
lamp close to the bed or nightlights in key locations to help prevent falls.
• Use non-skid mats in and around the tub or shower,
along with handrails strategically placed near the bath tub or toilet, to help prevent bathroom related injuries.
As summer ends, caregiver’s focus may shift to children
move patients toward independence. Our staff of home
returning to school or other fall activities. Home health
health professionals are available to offer in-home safety
patients may experience “empty nest” syndrome when a
assessments to help ensure the safety of a loved one or partner.
To schedule a home safety assessment: call: 800.642.6099 | visit: vnatip.com
HEALTHCARE 365: Focusing On HealthCare Everyday disease
Balanced”
physician to provide a customized plan of care which will
59% of home surfaces can be contaminated with the flu virus
200,000+ annual hospitalizations are from flu-related complications
the “Living
HomeCare’s team of experts works closely with a patient’s
NICOLE BREWER Creative Director
about
side-effects from prescription drugs should all be considered when dealing with patient safety.
ROBINE CARRON Director of Billing & Collections
information
threat of falling is a serious concern. Factors such as decreased muscle tone and eyesight, tripping hazards and
SHARON BILLINGSLEY Director of HR & Payroll
more
also be a top priority. For many homecare patients, the
TIPS TO REMEMBER:
home that has been lively and busy for the summer months becomes quiet again. Volunteering can be the perfect outlet for patients who are able and wish to begin a new start of their own.
TIP HOSPICE: Recognizes September As Pain Awareness Month September is National Pain Awareness Month. The purpose of the campaign is to promote education, advocacy and awareness and to also improve effective pain management options. As providers of pain management in a hospice setting, TIP Hospice utilizes extensive tools and knowledge to manage a patient’s pain while attempting to minimize side effects. Pain is assessed at the beginning and end of each visit; where patients can use TIP Hospice’s “Pain Ruler” tool to help identify their pain. Clinicians also pay close attention to the site or sites of pain on the patient’s body. The pain ruler or Flacc Scale are particularly useful tools for non-verbal patients to identify their level of pain. At a level “3” or above on the pain ruler, TIP Hospice clinicians follow up with patients within 24 hours by visit or phone call to assess treatment effectiveness. TIP Hospice clinicians also utilize the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Pain Relief Ladder, which systematically helps health care providers to manage patient pain. The ladder is a three-step model which guides patients through medications to control their pain without over-medicating. Sometimes medications, such as
NSAIDs, anti-depressants or steroids combined with pain medications can combat patient pain without increasing the pain medication dosage. By integrating tools, following a process to assess and treat pain and specialized pain knowledge, TIP Hospice works with the patient and family to relieve discomfort with a systematic approach to ensure proper treatment. The goal is to reduce and stabilize pain symptoms and improve the quality of life, which is achieved through an individualized treatment plan. There is not a blanket approach to pain management, especially in hospice care. Providing information and choices to patients and families is important to clinicians. TIP Hospice is dedicated to patient safety and makes every effort to deliver excellent pain management care from a staff of professionals. Since 1978, TIP Hospice has been committed to preserving the quality and integrity of life and remains dedicated to nurturing and caring for patients as well as their families.
August is National Immunization Awareness Month! Immunizations (or vaccinations) aren’t just for babies or young children. Parents, college-age students, seniors and healthcare workers can prepare for the upcoming flu season by staying up-to-date with their immunizations. Experts at VNA-TIP HealthCare can bring a Vaccination/Prevention clinic to businesses and organizations in the community. We offer the following vaccinations: • Flu • TB Testing • Pneumonia • Zoster (Shingles) • Tetanus • Hepatitis A & B For vaccination sites, VNA-TIP provides all marketing materials, consent forms, receipts, syringes, sharps containers, emergency reaction kits and other supplies. Nurses and staff at the clinics are expertly trained and
[
Walk-ins are also welcome at branch locations from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. beginning in September.
available to assist with all necessary tasks. VNA-TIP HealthCare can also provide in-home flu and pneumonia vaccinations for those who are unable to leave the home. Vaccinations are available at our 30+ branch locations in MO and IL.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: phone: 800.642.6099 and press ‘3’ for vaccinations web: vnatip.com
VNA-TIP IS JOINING THE FIGHT AGAINST ALZHEIMER’S
WILL YOU? Busch Stadium Saturday, August 31, 2013 700 Clark Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63102 8 am: Registration | 9 am: Walk begins Southwind Park - Hope Picnic Shelter Saturday, September 21, 2013 South Second Street & Southwind Road, Springfield, IL 62703 8 am: Check in & Festivities | 10 am: Walk Kickoff
[
VACCINATION CLINICS & WALK-INS
! e s u a c e h t t r o Supp
SIUE Saturday, September 28, 2013
Carbondale Community High School Saturday, October 12, 2013
650-699 Harpin Drive, Edwardsville, IL 62026 8 am: Registration | 9 am: Walk begins
1301 East Walnut Street, Carbondale, IL 62901 8 am: Check in & Festivities | 10 am: Walk Kickoff
STAFF SPOTLIGHT: VNA-TIP HealthCare is a company full of bright stars. From clinicians to HR to IT, each employee plays an integral role in the company’s success. Here are a few employees who personify VNA-TIP’s dedication to “Teamwork and Excellence.”
“
Danielle Koetting HomeCare RN, Breese Danielle has been with VNA-TIP HealthCare since July 2012. Always willing to help, Danielle offers assistance to anyone who may need it. She has trained new employees who express how great of a teacher she is. She truly demonstrates exceptional professionalism and team work.
HomeCare – Breese
Lori Schmoll Volunteer Coordinator Lori Schmoll works as a Volunteer Coordinator for TIP Hospice in the Bridgeton office and has been with the company for five years. She holds a B.A. in Psychology from UMSL and also has completed courses in Gerontology at Washington University. Lori is central to several TIP Hospice programs, including the “You Are Not Alone” (YANA) vigil program, whose mission is to serve as a companion for patients that are transitioning through the dying process. She is also a member of TIP Tones, an ensemble that brings music to nursing homes. Hospice – Bridgeton
Cheryl Jones Administrative, Cairo Cheryl has been with the Cairo office for nearly two years and she has proven herself as an extremely valuable asset. As office clerical work has increased, multitasking is normal for Cheryl, which is demonstrated through her proficiency. She is always willing to go the extra mile without complaint. If there are tasks to be done, Cheryl is proactive; without being asked, she will complete them. The staff thinks very highly of Cheryl and appreciates all she does.
HomeCare – Cairo
July 2013 / Issue #001 / 3rd Quarter
THE LATEST NEWS
Quarterly Newsletter For Our Patients, Families, And Communities
Look for our ad in the St. Louis Cardinals GameDay Magazine!
7/" 5*1
)FBMUI$BSF
MT. CARMEL
)PNF$BSF t )PTQJDF t 1SJWBUF %VUZ
Branch Events
June 24: This year marked the 161st Macoupin County Fair which began on June 24 and ran through the 29. VNA-TIP HealthCare staff of the Carlinville office provided free blood pressure screenings on June 26 for the fair’s “Senior Day.” July 14: The Clinton County Fair had another seven days of excitement for the 62nd annual fair on Sunday, July 14 through 20. VNA-TIP HealthCare staff participated in the Clinton County Fair Parade on Monday, July 15. The theme was “Country Pride, Country Wide.” July 26: Clinical Liason, Alechia Sveda attended Family Fun Night at Pinckneyville Fairgrounds from 5-9 p.m. on behalf of VNA-TIP HealthCare.
STARLIGHT WISH
August 31: VNA-TIP HealthCare will be supporting the Alzheimer’s Association in a big way this year by participating in the Walk To End Alzheimer’s at Busch Stadium on August 31. We ramped up our efforts by involving a large company-wide team. Contests, events, giveaways and more aided in raising funds and helped us surpass our goal of $2,000. Fundraising website: act.alz.org/goto/vnatip See insert for other walks to participate in!
Branch Anniversaries 15 YEARS
Centralia Hospice
July 1998
10 YEARS
Mt. Carmel Hospice
September 2003
8 YEARS
Carlinville HomeCare
August 2005
8 YEARS
Carlinville Hospice
July 2005
5 YEARS
Belleville HomeCare
September 2007
CLINTON COUNTY PARADE
IN THIS ISSUE
Staff Happenings
Plan. Prevent. Protect. -Flu Facts
Starlight Wish TIP Hospice offers the StarLight Wish program that seeks to fulfill a special wish of a hospice patient. Toby, a Bridgeton hospice patient, is a huge St. Louis Cardinals fan. Part one of Toby’s wish was presented in the form of a Cardinals themed birthday party at his nursing facility while a day game was on TV. All residents and staff were invited to celebrate. For part two of the wish the St. Louis Cardinals “stepped up to the plate” and donated a tour of Busch Stadium for Toby, his friends, family and TIP staff that included the opportunity to watch batting practice! Thanks to everyone who made this happy celebration possible. Service Awards Luncheon On March 27, VNA-TIP HealthCare celebrated and recognized 93 employees who have been with the company for 3, 5, 10 and 15 years during the annual Service Awards Luncheon. Lunch and an awards ceremony was held at Lotawata Creek Southern Grill in Fairview Heights, IL. Employees were honored with plaques, pins and certificates.
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3440 De Paul Lane, Suite 201 Bridgeton, MO 63044 Phone: 314.595.6800 Web: vnatip.com
Focusing On HealthCare Everyday
FARMINGTON PARADE
Connect with Us!
Teamwork & Excellence 3440 De Paul Lane, Suite 201 Phone: 314.595.6800 Bridgeton, MO 63044 Web: vnatip.com
Back To Basics With Home Safety Pain Awareness Vaccination Clinics & Walk-Ins We Support Alzheimer’s Awareness Staff Spotlight The Latest News