Crystal Joy is February Employee of the Month

Crystal Joy, ambulatory surgery, is the February Employee of the Month. She was presented the honor Feb. 4 by AMH president Dave Braasch and surgical services manager Cathy Wagner.

Her co-workers say, “Crystal is consistently mentioned in discharge calls. Her pleasant attitude is greatly appreciated by patients and their families. Patients have called to say how wonderful she is. One patient said, ‘There are good nurses, but she is the best of the best.’ Crystal has received cards and flowers from patients she has taken care of.

“Comments that we have received from patients/families include: ‘Crystal was very sweet and comforting’; ‘Crystal was excellent checking me in and getting me out with my husband’; and ‘Crystal was fantastic and comforting. Everyone was excellent as well.’ Her team members know that they can count on her to willingly lend a hand when they need it.”

Crystal Joy, ambulatory surgery, center, receives the February Employee of the Month award Feb. 4 from AMH president Dave Braasch and surgical services manager Cathy Wagner.| Photo by Rusty Ingram

Alton Memorial Convenient Care expands hours

Alton Memorial Convenient Care (AMCC) has expanded its hours and is now open from 8 a.m.-8 p.m., seven days a week. The office, at 5520 Godfrey Road in Godfrey, Illinois, offers the lowest co-pay in the Riverbend area.

AMCC treats many common injuries and illnesses for patients of all ages, including:

• cough, cold, strep throat and flu symptoms
• ear infection
• ear wax removal
• eye irritation
• insect bites and rashes
• joint sprains
• minor scrapes, cuts or bruises
• minor suturing
• muscle strains
• painful urination
• pelvic/sexually transmitted infection exams
• sinus and allergy issues

Other services offered include:

• general physical exams
• school, sport or camp physicals
• B12, testosterone injections
• vaccines, including flu, and TDaP
• foster care and adoption physicals
• tuberculosis testing
• blood pressure checks

AMH has ‘Awesome’ employees

If you know of an AMH employee, physician or volunteer who deserves recognition, let AMH know by completing an “Awesome” form. Forms are available in the hospital waiting areas and at nurses stations. A member of the leadership team will present your honoree with an “Awesome” badge sticker.

Completed forms may be dropped off at the information desk or sent to the development office. For more information, contact Jeanne Truckey, 618-433-6047.

Recent Awesome cards went to:

• James Gauen, ED
• Katie Groth, ED
• Lily Gray, surgical services

Barb Archambault named AMH HR manager

Barb Archambault

Barb Archambault has been promoted to AMH human resources manager.

Archambault has become an invaluable resource for AMH leaders and employees, having served as HR business partner since her arrival in March 2016. She also serves on the AMH People Team and recently led a successful United Way campaign. She is passionate about AMH and providing top-notch HR support.

Ed Long will resume full HR manager duties at Christian Hospital. AMH is appreciative to Long for his service at AMH.

Human Motion Institute adds new ‘tool’ to department toolbox

It may not be as flashy as the Batmobile, but a “car” is turning heads as the newest addition to AMH’s Human Motion Institute rehabilitation services.

The Car Simulator WT-960 Tran-Sit allows patients receiving acute care to practice getting in and out of vehicles before being discharged to their homes.

“It’s not uncommon for patients to have fear, anxiety and sometimes pain getting into or out of a vehicle to go home,” says Sue Walker, PT, MBA, AMH rehabilitation services manager. “Many of our surgical patients go home the same day or the next day, including patients who’ve had hip or knee surgery.”

Mary Lou Beck had both of her knees replaced at AMH and received physical and occupational therapy prior to the purchase of the new equipment. She knows first-hand the importance of practicing real-life situations before going home.

“Entering and exiting a vehicle is certainly an area of concern, if done improperly,” says Beck, a retired AMH employee. “When you’ve just been through surgery and your balance is somewhat impaired, it’s important to practice proper techniques for all daily living activities.”

The car-like device simulates a real-life experience. Staff can adjust the height to match the height of a patient’s vehicle, the steering wheel moves up and down, and the seats slide forward and backward.

“It’s one more tool in an already fantastic tool box the department has that enables patients to progress during the rehabilitation process,” says Beck.

The Human Motion Institute was able to purchase the device, thanks to a grant from the White Cross Auxiliary.

“As the population of Baby Boomers ages, we all know how important it is to maintain our independence,” says Irene McLaughlin, Auxiliary president. “Many have to undergo hip or knee replacements, and this will give them the guidance and therapy to be able to get in and out of a vehicle again.”

Mary Lou Beck sits in the car under the watchful eye of Scott Allsman, PTA.| Photo by Tim Mudrovic

AMH takes Heart Month to heart

Student nurses from Lewis and Clark Community College give cholesterol screenings in the Wound Care Center during AMH’s 21st annual Heart-Stroke Fair Feb. 2. Close to 200 people attended the fair, which included a presentation by Kyle Ogle, AMH Stroke Center coordinator. AMH thanks the LCCC student nurses, who made the screenings run smoothly, plus all the other volunteers and Firehouse Subs for providing free boxed lunches. | Photo by Dave Whaley

Dr. Rothstein and Dr. Nelson recognized with Neville Grant Award

The Barnes-Jewish Hospital Medical Staff Association has recognized Marcos Rothstein, MD, and D. Michael Nelson, MD, PhD, with the Neville Grant Award for Clinical Excellence.

The award is given annually to physicians noted for exceptional compassion toward patients, outstanding clinical skills and for serving as role models for both their students and colleagues. It is named for the late Neville Grant, MD, a physician known for his commitment to Washington University School of Medicine, BJH and the patients he served over several decades.

Dr. Rothstein, professor of nephrology and medical director of dialysis services at BJH, has been on the WUSM faculty and BJH staff since 1982. He is nationally known for his treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and hard-to-treat hypertension.

He is also known as an expert and sought-after speaker on the clinical and public health impact of CKD on the St. Louis community and the disparities in CKD and hypertension outcomes in minority populations. He has volunteered numerous hours through his work in La Clinica, a health care organization that provides medical services to the underserved Hispanic population in the St. Louis metropolitan area. He is passionate about empowering minorities to take charge of their health by addressing lifestyle changes that can make a difference in CKD and hypertension prevention.

Dr. Rothstein has been an advocate of expanding renal patient care services into the community. While still attending to patients at the Washington University Medical Campus, he now sees patients at an outpatient clinic on the campus of Christian Hospital in conjunction with the new North County Dialysis Center

Dr. Rothstein is also a driving force behind the Guatemala CKD MesoAmerican Nephropathy Project, which involves a partnering of a group of WU researchers, residents, fellows and staff with the Guatemala Social Security Institute (IGSS) hospital system and Roosevelt Hospital in Guatemala City. The project is working toward improving patient outcomes and understanding an epidemic of CKD in Latin America.

“To be a recipient of the Neville Grant award represents one of the highest accolades that one’s peers can bestow at our institution,” says Dr. Rothstein. “I am deeply honored by this recognition and by the fact that I’ll have the privilege of joining such a distinguished list of previous Neville Grant awardees.”

Dr. Nelson, WUSM vice chairman and Virginia S. Lang Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology and director of maternal-fetal transport, joined the WUSM faculty and BJH staff in 1983. He is nationally known for management of severe maternal disease including the most severe forms of preeclampsia and other hypertensive disorders.

As director of maternal-fetal transport, he oversees services that allow high-risk patients to be transferred from communities within a 400-square-mile region to access specialized obstetrical care and the neonatal intensive care unit at St. Louis Children’s Hospital.

Many of Dr. Nelson’s 145 papers focus on basic research into the cellular function of the human placenta. His work in dissecting signaling pathways important for human trophoblast function has led to interventions, including pomegranate juice and vitamin D, to enhance function of placentas from women at risk for adverse outcomes.

Dr. Nelson is a participant on National Institutes of Health study sections, and is a board member for both the Burroughs Wellcome Trust and the National Foundation of the March of Dimes Prematurity Prevention endeavors. He is a fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, received the President’s Distinguished Senior Scientist Award from the Society for Gynecologic Investigation, and was honored with the Outstanding Clinician Award from the Missouri Maternal, Child and Family Health Coalition.

Nephrologist Dr. Marcos Rothstein, left, and ob/gyn Dr. D. Michael Nelson were recipients of the Neville Grant Award for Clinical Excellence. The award was presented at the BJH medical staff meeting. | Photo by Tim Mudrovic

Team members honored with Faces of Healing awards

Several team members were honored recently with Faces of Healing awards. They include BJSPH’s Kim Wagberg, surgical services; Kayla Clemens, telemetry; Allison Haupert, telemetry; Leilani Murphy, ICU; Katie Meahan, ICU; and Amanda Givens, ICU.

Faces of Healing awards are gifts made by patients or families that pay tribute to a health care team member who provided excellent care and made a difference in the patient’s visit or stay.

BJSPH’s Kim Wagberg, fifth from left, with friends and colleagues, earned a Faces of Healing award. | Courtesy photos

BJSPH’s Kayla Clemens, far right, and Allison Haupert, fifth from right, earned Faces of Healing awards.

ICU’s Leilani Murphy, third from left, earned a Faces of Healing award.

Katie Meahan, second from left, and Amanda Givens, third from left, were honored with the prestigious Faces of Healing award.

Lance Russell and Lisa Wigger

12 Days of Fitness winners are Lance Russell and Lisa Wigger

PWH’s Lance Russell and BJSPH’s Lisa Wigger won Trek bikes as part of BJC Help for Your Health’s 12 Days of Fitness program.

Employees who exercised for at least 30 minutes for 12 days during December, and turned in the 12 Days of Fitness entry form with a completed quiz, were eligible to win.

Morrison names BJWCH food and nutrition region’s Most Improved Account

Morrison HealthCare, BJC’s food service partner, awarded the 2018 Most Improved Account in the Region to the BJWCH food and nutrition department.

This award is given to the hospital with the most improved patient satisfaction scores and retail sales. In 2018, BJWCH remained above its patient satisfaction benchmark from Professional Research Consultants and was ranked No. 2 in the system. Last year, retail sales continued to rise in the café. BJWCH surpassed the sales budget every month for 2018, surpassing it by 5 percent for six of 12 months.

Celebrating BJWCH’s award as the region’s Most Improved Account are, from left, Stacy Arney; Chris Whipple, Morrison area customer experience manager; Tyler Roskam; Seth Schoem; Josh Zelasko; Teresa Jackson, Morrison regional director of operations; Chrisandra Money; Sarah Miller; Charles Austin; Betty Robinson; Lanelle Dixon; Rasheika Jones; Marsha Carter; and Trish Lollo. | Photo by Libby Martin

Ebony Street

Street shows the ICARE values

Community support specialist Ebony Street, BJC Behavioral Health-North, showed ICARE values at the BJC Behavioral Health-Central site when she took charge of an emotional situation in the same day access area.

Street helped comfort a co-worker’s client during a difficult intake, making a monumental difference in how the client viewed BJC Behavioral Health and BJC. Street says she “acted on what my heart told me,” helping the client be open to accepting services, trusting and willing to allow help toward recovery.

For this, Street was named service excellence winner at BJC Behavioral Health-North for August.

Erika Dintelman

Personally and professionally, Dintelman comes through

BJC Behavioral Health-South case manager Erika Dintelman demonstrated exceptional compassion and patience with a difficult family situation.

A co-worker says, “Erika is always willing to help and is a constant support for us. She has been giving the rest of the team ‘shout-outs’ when they’re going through difficult times and has been a great listener for me, both personally and professionally.”

Dintelman presents a professional and positive attitude, even when faced with stressful and challenging situations. For this, she was named service excellence winner for August for BJC Behavioral Health-South.

Tommy Doss

A smile and a positive attitude typify Doss’s care

Community support specialist Tommy Doss, BJC Behavioral Health-Southeast, has a positive outlook on treatment with all of his clients, being the voice of the client when necessary. Doss also accepts challenging cases with a smile and a positive attitude.

He is able to meet clients where they are and talk to them on that level. He has the ability to put clients at ease and re-engage them when others cannot. Doss has the respect of his team and his clients and strives to provide excellent care daily. The Southeast site named Doss the service excellence winner for August.

Meagan Losse

Losse keeps cool head in emergency

While waiting for EMTs to respond when a co-worker’s client became ill, case manager Meagan Losse, BJC Behavioral Health-Central, immediately took a leadership role in protecting and caring for the client.

While waiting, Losse remained focused on providing first aid for the client. Even before the nurses arrived, Losse was already helping by speaking to the patient and keeping the patient calm. As others arrived, they were able to follow Losse’s lead, helping to protect the client until emergency services arrived.

Losse provided leadership and a calming presence to everyone involved. For this, she was named the August service excellence winner for BJC Behavioral Health-Central.

Suzanne Sparks

Sparks makes time for clients and co-workers

Case manager Suzanne Sparks, BJC Behavioral Health-Southeast, is known to her co-workers as an intelligent, caring person who embodies ICARE values on a daily basis. She’s thorough as she meets new clients, reassuring them that they made the right decision to walk through the BJC Behavioral Health door.

Sparks is always positive and makes time for her co-workers, on or off the clock, even delivering a complete homemade meal on a Saturday to a co-worker.

Sparks is respected for her work ethic and is supportive of both clients and co-workers.

Her willingness to give her time and energy wherever needed made her the BJC Behavioral Health-Southeast June service excellence winner.

Corporate Health Services honors employees at year-end banquet

Jane Myers

BJC Corporate Health Services held its 2017 Employee Recognition Banquet in November. The event showcased the award-winning teams and individuals from CHS who have contributed to the overall success of the organization.

More than 100 colleagues, business partners and guests attended the event at the Clubhouse at the Norman K. Probstein Golf Course in Forest Park. Guests enjoyed a reception, dinner, photo booth and awards ceremony.

For the first time in CHS history, the Leadership Award was presented to two individuals. Jane Myers, business manager, and Sandy Swan, program manager, occupational health and ergonomics, were recognized for their outstanding contributions and commitment to CHS clients.

Sandy Swan

“CHS has a dual focus on internal and external clients,” said Patrick Venditti, CHS executive director. “Both Jane and Sandy manage high-performing teams that exceed their clients’ expectations and position CHS for continued success. They are dynamic leaders who take great pride in their teams and their work.”

Client recognition awards were presented to Shelley Penrod, transcriptionist; Wanda Hughes, patient access representative; and Andrea Tobiasz, nurse practitioner. These special awards recognize the individuals who were most frequently mentioned during client satisfaction telephone surveys. In addition, Joseph Klipsch, facilities coordinator, received special recognition for always going “above and beyond” to take care of his colleagues.

Three individuals received awards for living ICARE service values in 2017. They included Aaron Gutjahr, exercise physiologist; Kelly Bini, occupational therapist; and Connie Kopec, EHR analyst. “Demonstrating ICARE values is key to our success in every patient and client encounter,” said Diane Palmer, RN, director of clinical operations. “Our 2017 awardees are being recognized for their commitment to these values and practices.”

“The past year has been a memorable one for CHS,” said Venditti. “We’ve made significant strides in many areas, thanks to our dedicated team of professionals. The Employee Recognition Banquet is our special time to celebrate and recognize the individuals and teams that make CHS a great place to work and receive care.”

Stacy Arney named vice president of BJC human resources operations

Stacy Arney

Stacy Arney has been named vice president of BJC human resources operations, effective March 4.

In her new role, Arney will be responsible for providing leadership, vision and innovation for systemwide human resources operational activities, including responsive prioritization and resource deployment. This will include establishing an HR operations infrastructure and service delivery model of continuous improvement and outstanding customer service.

Arney will lead the BJC HR project management office and the BJC Employee Service Center, and will have oversight of corporate compliance with regulations, government agencies and federal/state/local employment laws.

Arney currently serves as human resources and transformation support director at Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital. In her BJWCH role, she leads human resources, performance improvement, patient experience, communications and marketing, medical staff office, volunteer services, and food and nutrition. Arney has been instrumental in developing talent management, leadership development, engagement and continuous improvement strategies at BJWCH.

Arney joined BJC in 2011. She also has served in human resources roles at Missouri Baptist Medical Center. Prior to joining BJC, she held human resources leadership roles at Videojet Technologies (Danaher Corp.), Dial Corp. and Hertz Corp.

Arney earned her bachelor’s degree in organizational psychology from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and holds a senior professional in human resources designation.

Cole Elmer named revenue management vice president

Cole Elmer

Cole Elmer has joined BJC as vice president for revenue management, reporting to BJC vice president and chief revenue officer Tracy Berry. 

In this role, Elmer will direct and oversee revenue management, which includes billing and follow-up, denial management, cash posting and customer service for all BJC hospitals and BJC Medical Group. His responsibilities will include leadership of the almost 500 employees within the group. Sherry Graf, Steve Kocisak, Lorrie Jost, Coleen Schick and Pat Thomas will report directly to him. 

Elmer most recently served as vice president of revenue cycle operations at R1 Revenue Cycle Management (formerly Accretive Health), a health care revenue cycle and physician advisory services provider. In this role, he was responsible for daily acute care revenue cycle operations for a centralized billing office in Indianapolis encompassing 335 associates at its peak, and servicing 22 Ascension Health facilities with net revenue of more than $4.2 billion.

Previously, Elmer served as revenue cycle performance executive director at Mercy Health System in St. Louis, where he led a team of associates responsible for monitoring, identifying and implementing revenue cycle opportunities for hospitals, clinics and providers with net revenue of more than $2.1 billion.

He is also a military veteran, serving as a sergeant in the Illinois Army National Guard in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Elmer earned a bachelor’s degree in health planning and administration from the University of Illinois – Champaign and a master’s degree in health care management from Vanderbilt University in Nashville.

Trivia supports Wings pediatric program

Do you love trivia? If so, gather a group of friends or co-workers together for Magellan’s 16th annual trivia night benefiting the BJC Hospice pediatric program, Wings. Proceeds from the event will go toward grief and camp programs for children.

Trivia takes place Feb. 24 at the Machinist’s Hall off St. Charles Rock Road. Doors open at 6 p.m.; trivia begins at 7 p.m. Cost is $160 per table or $20 per ticket.

For more information, contact Patti Kasperski, pekasperski@magellanhealth.com or 314-387-5133.

For more information about the Wings program,
visit bjchospice.org/wings.

Boone Medical Group – South welcomes new primary care providers

Carla Maylee and Kim Pfeiffer

Nurse practitioners Carla Maylee, FNP, and Kim Pfeiffer, FNP, have joined Boone Medical Group – South in Columbia, Missouri, to provide primary care to patients through the management of chronic medical illnesses, treatment of common acute illnesses and care for minor injuries.

Maylee earned her master’s degree in nursing from Chamberlain College of Nursing in 2018. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, she had been practicing as a registered nurse since 1987.

“My philosophy is patient-centered care by educating patients on the benefits of taking ownership of their health care,” Maylee says. “I enjoy educating my patients on the disease process and recommended treatment plans, as well as developing a plan of care through preventive care, diet and exercise to promote a healthy lifestyle.”

Pfeiffer earned her master’s degree in nursing from Maryville University in 2018. Prior to earning her advanced degree, she practiced as a registered nurse since 1998 in the Columbia area, working as an  emergency department nurse for the past 15 years.

“Having more than 20 years of nursing experience has taught me to be an active listener, which I believe is critical to building a good relationship with patients and their families,” Pfeiffer says. “I am also a strong advocate for patient information and teaching to maximize the patient’s understanding of his or her condition and treatment to achieve the best outcomes.”

Carla Maylee, FNP, and Kim Pfeiffer, FNP, are members of Boone Medical Group. They join the Boone Medical Group – South practice at 900 W. Nifong Ave., Suite 101, Columbia, Missouri. They can be reached at 573-499-9009. For more information, visit boonemedicalgroup.org.

Smith to present at national ACHE Congress

Monica Smith

BHC chief nursing officer Monica Smith was chosen to present an innovation plan she developed at the upcoming American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) Congress on Healthcare Leadership.

Smith developed her plan while completing the ACHE Senior Executive Program. This program prepares senior health care leaders for a complex, ever-changing health care environment and inspires them to solve challenges, improve health care and advance the field. The five-month program includes three intensive in-person sessions plus virtual learning activities.

Program participants are required to complete and present a thought-provoking improvement project to be evaluated by other participants. The top three presenters are then invited to present their innovations at the next annual ACHE Congress in Chicago.

Smith’s presentation, describing process improvement changes made in BHC’s emergency department, was the top-ranked presentation in her group.

Career Resource Center honored with Building Tomorrow Diversity Award 

The Construction Forum St. Louis Foundation recently honored CH, BJC and Tarlton Corp. with the Building Tomorrow Award in the Diversity category for the Thinking Beyond Tomorrow program.

The program is leveraging the Siteman construction project at Northwest HealthCare by creating the Career Resource Center, housed at the jobsite. The facility provides information to high school students and community agencies on careers in construction and health care.

From left, CH human resources vice president Bryan Hartwick, Career Resource Center clinical education specialist Charyl Mitchell and Tarlton diversity manager Roslyn Croft show off the diversity award. | Photo by Bret Berigan

Christian Cruiser transports visitors and patients around campus

The Christian Cruiser courtesy shuttle car is available to transport visitors and patients on the CH campus. The Cruiser runs from 9 a.m.-1p.m., Monday-Friday. Signs are located on the front parking lot, as well as the MOB 1 and PFD parking lots, to call for shuttle service. For escorts, call CH security, 314-653-5110.

The Christian Cruiser was generously purchased by the CH Auxiliary to transport patients and visitors on the CH campus. | Photo by Bret Berigan

Town Hall suggestions result in new wheelchairs, flooring replacement

In response to suggestions made in the recent Employee Town Hall meetings:

• Wheelchairs have been purchased for CH MOB 1 and MOB 2. The wheelchairs are located in the lobbies of both buildings for patients’ use while in those buildings for appointments.
• The 11th-floor corridor flooring will be replaced with wood-plank vinyl flooring tile, as in other updated areas. Completion is expected in March.

Employee input is valuable in helping to make CH the best it can be.

Christian celebrates diversity with CultureFest 2019 

CultureFest, a celebration of the many cultures of CH’s staff and patients and St. Louis’ communities, is scheduled from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., March 27, in the CH Atrium and parking lot.

The event will feature community program booths, retail vendors and health initiatives that promote diversity, inclusion and equity.

Team members will have a chance to sign the BJC Diversity & Inclusion banner making its way across the organization in 2019.  The CH Auxiliary will give away four 23andMe DNA ancestry kits as door prizes. 

Food trucks scheduled to be at the event include Andrew’s Bayou BBQ, Crooked Boot Soul Food, KBOP Korean, Sia’s Italian Ice, Twisted Tacos and Wok and Roll.

Paul Olatunde

Your Best Medicine with Paul Olatunde

How long have you been at CH/BJC?
I’ve been at CH for over six years, and this is my first hospital job. I always wanted to do something in health care, so I started off as a phlebotomist and did that for five years or so, and it’s been very rewarding. Now I’m a blood drawer and work in the processing department. 

In your job, how do you provide your best medicine to our patients?
If I start my day first as a blood drawer, a lot of patients don’t like being woken up, and then you’re sticking them with a needle. So, whenever I come into a room, I always try to be very pleasant and have a calm tone. I introduce myself and tell them I’m there to get some of their blood. I try to cater to patients and ask them if they need anything while I’m there, because it can be really scary for some people to be in the hospital. 

What is the favorite/most rewarding part of your job?
I would say between the nurses and my team within the lab, it’s absolutely fantastic to work here, as far as the environment. All of us really get along well together. We definitely cater to each other, especially if we need coverage doing something. One example of why I like working here — my co-worker challenged me to try a new diet that would be classified as the ketogenic diet. He did this a week before Thanksgiving 2017, thinking I’d probably not be able to do it, since it was before the holidays. But he really motivated me, and I’ve lost more than 60 pounds from him challenging me, and I’ve kept the weight off, too.

Why do you choose to work at CH?
My father, Lawrence Olatunde, is a chaplain at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and has worked for BJC for over 25 years. He drilled into my head for a long time that I need to work in health care. He planted the seed, and I live close to Christian. So, I applied and wanted to get the health care atmosphere under my belt, and I’ve not regretted it whatsoever. This place is fantastic, as far as opportunities. Right now, I’m wrapping up my bachelor’s degree in health care management though BJC tuition reimbursement. I graduate in April 2019, in pursuit of a position in health care administration.

Show me Natalie Edwards on ‘Family Feud’

Natalie Edwards, RN, NWHC emergency department, and her family members will be featured on “Family Feud,” at 6 p.m., Feb. 26-27, on KDNL-TV Channel 30. Here, Edwards, center, with Steve Harvey, and family members, from left, nephew Jeff, niece Ladena, niece Janeen and husband David pose for a photo on the set. | Courtesy photo

BJC Home Care Services holds annual awards banquet

The annual BJC Home Care Services awards banquet in December honored employees for their years of service, and annual awards were presented. Kelly Shepherd, RN, was named Employee of the Year; Angie Randall, patient care supervisor, was honored as Leader of the Year; and the Evelyn’s House staff was named Team of the Year

Employees also enjoyed a carnival-themed celebration, including dinner, drinks and dessert, at Orlando’s in south St. Louis County. The evening ended with a traditional toast, recognizing all of Home Care’s “wonderful, hard-working employees.”

The Evelyn’s House staff won the BJC Home Care Services Team of the Year award in December. | Photo by Jennifer Lang

Don Courtial, MHB physical therapist, retires after 59 years

Don Courtial

After serving as Memorial’s rehabilitation services director for 47 years and retiring nine years ago, Don Courtial continued to work part-time. He has now officially retired.

So, what was it that drove Courtial to continue working after nearly six decades? “The good vibes, working with great physicians, excellent people overall, for whom I have great respect and appreciation, kept me here and encouraged me to continue the work I loved,” he says.

After all of the years of working at Memorial, Courtial says the best part about his job was working with such caring, skillful and educated colleagues and being able to relieve patients’ pain and movement dysfunctions and get them back to optimal daily living.

At age 84, Courtial is ready to fish more and relax full time.

Lynn Bechtoldt and Delphya Trimble are Employees of the Month

Lynn Bechtoldt

Lynn Bechtoldt, respiratory care patient access rep II, was named MHB Employee of the Month for December. Bechtoldt was previously Employee of the Month in October 1996.

“Lynn is a vital asset to the respiratory care department,” says her supervisor, Julie McCallister. “She is efficient, effective and compassionate, and is the perfect example of a team player.”

Employed at Memorial for 28 years, Bechtoldt is responsible for registering patients, ordering supplies, distributing oxygen tanks throughout the hospital and serving as department secretary.

Another nominator says, “Lynn consistently goes above and beyond in her job duties. She is knowledgeable with computer issues, equipment, patient care and registration. When she is on vacation, her presence is very much missed. Her smile, words of wisdom and compassion are out-of-this-world fabulous.”

Bechtoldt says the most rewarding part of her job is knowing she can calm down patients so they’re not afraid of their upcoming tests. “She always goes above and beyond for the comfort and convenience of her patients,” McCallister adds. 

Delphya Trimble

Delphya Trimble, MHE pharmacy tech for three and a half years, was honored as the January Employee of the Month. Trimble goes above and beyond to make sure the pharmacy is staffed. As a certified pharmacy technician, her job responsibilities include filling the Omnicell machines with medications, making and batching IVs, answering phones, and stocking supplies.

“Being a seven-on/seven-off midnight shift, she has to manage her time wisely and be self-motivated to go the extra mile,” says manager Ryan Birk.

She says the most rewarding part of her job is knowing that she’s helping people feel better and saving lives by filling and making the medications they need.

Birk says Trimble provides good suggestions and leads by example. “Delphya is always looking at better ways to care for patients and keep the team accountable,” he adds.

Her advice to new employees is to “make each day a fresh start and don’t be afraid to ask questions.”

Jayne Jun retires after 36 years of service

Jayne Jun

Jayne Jun, RN, retired Feb. 1, after 36 years of service to Memorial.

Jun started her career as an emergency department clinical staff nurse in 1983. She was float pool manager/house supervisor for 28 years. Jun built and expanded the float pool that now covers MHB, MHE and MCC. She also is known for her love of Nurses Day and has worked the past 28 years on making sure this celebration is special for all nursing services staff in the organization. Jun plans to spend her retirement shopping and spending time with her family. 

Dr. Ketan Patel named emergency department medical director

Dr. Ketan Patel

Ketan Patel, MD, has been named emergency department facility medical director for MHB and MHE.

Dr. Patel is board certified in emergency and internal medicine. He has more than 25 years of emergency medicine experience, serving 13 years as facility medical director at Northwest HealthCare, where he was former Medical Director of the Year.

Dr. Patel is noted for implementing significant patient safety, throughput and patient satisfaction improvements at NWHC.

Kissel’s compassion leads to DAISY Award

Cortney Kissel

Advanced cardiac care nurse Cortney Kissel earned MBMC’s most recent DAISY Award.

According to Kissel’s nominator, Kissel went out of her way to ensure a patient’s spouse was well informed. “When the doctor left, Cortney offered to talk about everything. She then put her arm around the spouse and said, ‘Let’s go get a coffee.’

“She walked with the spouse to get a coffee and talk about everything. Cortney was so compassionate. She took care of the patient and the family,” the nominator adds.

Mary Harper is 2018 Employee of the Year

Mary Harper

In addition to being nominated four times for Employee of the Month honors, housekeeper Mary Harper was named the 2018 Employee of the Year.

Harper has been described as thorough, skilled and efficient. She’s also known to go “above and beyond every single shift.” She also “knows our patients and keeps an eye out for them, letting us know when she sees something that could be an issue or if a patient needs help.”

Team members say:

• “We are so lucky to have her!”
• “Staff and patients appreciate her warm smiles, caring attitude and words of encouragement.”
• “Mary is a valuable part of our team. Not only does she excel at her own responsibilities, but she really cares for the patients as well.”
• “She goes above and beyond in efficiency and excellence, and patients’ family members comment on what a wonderful job she does. She has made herself an irreplaceable member of our team, and we would be lost without her!”

2018 Leader of the Year is Jessica Potts

Jessica Potts

Jessica Potts, nursing clinical service line program manager, was named the 2018 Leader of the Year. Following are excerpts from her nomination:

“Jessica displays integrity in all that she does. She is transparent to the staff and listens to issues and concerns. She works to ensure employees know where they are with resolving concerns.”

“Jessica displays compassion in all interactions. She is always willing to listen and hear concerns, bring those concerns forward, and remove barriers as well. She is thoughtful and professional in her approach in everything she does. She is not afraid to speak her opinion but always does so in a calm and respectful way.”

“Jessica wants to excel at everything she does. She seeks feedback as a way of improving her skills as a leader. She is proactive in problem-solving, getting input from others. She strives to make a difference in her departments. Jessica holds herself to a high standard. She is not afraid to take on tough issues and hold others accountable when necessary. She coaches her managers to excel.”

“Jessica is an asset to BJC, MoBap and her department. We are very fortunate to have her on our team and appreciate all she does to make MoBap a great place to work and thrive as a leader, which ultimately positively affects our patients.”

Tamara Zeigler earns 2018 Greatest Catch Award

Tamara Zeigler

Tamara Zeigler was doing vital signs on a baby in the nursery and detected a potential issue. She immediately called the neonatologist, who confirmed the issue and initiated proper interventions.

Cory Rataj is ‘100 percent a team player’

Catering associate Cory Rataj earned MBMC’s September Employee of the Month award. Here’s what his nominators had to say about him:

“Cory continually goes above and beyond for his patients. He always has a smile on his face, whether passing in the hallway or in a patient’s room. He is excellent with our comfort measure and palliative care patients and their families.

“Having Cory serve our trays makes for a fabulous day. He is always on time and always gets the patients’ orders correct. Cory is 100 percent a team player and will help anyone around him.”

Andrew Kimmel is ‘a joy to work with’

Andrew Kimmel

Physical therapist Andrew Kimmel earned MBMC’s October Employee of the Month honors. Here’s what his nominators had to say about him:

“Andrew is amazing! He is such a joy to work with; he has such a positive, caring attitude. He consistently goes out of his way to help in any way he can, whether that means getting things for patients, helping family members or helping other therapists.

“There’s a lot to teach patients on ortho, but Andrew has positive results with them. He is always professional and has a smile on his face. Andrew has a great sense of humor, and patients just love him — and so does the ortho staff!”

Missouri Baptist Sullivan installs 2019 Auxiliary officers

The Missouri Baptist Sullivan Hospital Auxiliary formally elected and installed its 2019 officers during the annual auxiliary meeting Jan. 28. MBSH president Tony Schwarm read their oath of office during their installation. 

The new slate of officers includes president Judy Reed, vice president Karen Ryan, treasurer Pat Blanton, secretary Mary Miller and historian Carol Kroenung. 

The leaders are committed to the task and have volunteered thousands of hours to the MBSH Auxiliary program.

The 2019 MBSH Auxiliary officers are, from left, president Judy Reed, vice president Karen Ryan, treasurer Pat Blanton, secretary Mary Miller and historian Carol Kroenung. | Photo by David Hartwick

Susan Pfoertner is Parkland Star Service Team Member for January

Susan Pfoertner

Susan Pfoertner, PharmD, BCGP, is the Parkland ICARE Star Service Team Member for January. Pfoertner is a pharmacist and has worked at PHC and Mineral Area Regional Medical Center for a combined total of 32 years. 

According to her nomination, “She is knowledgeable in her field and always eager to learn more. She is helpful and volunteers to help with department work that isn’t assigned to her, doing tasks to help other co-workers and meet patient needs. She instructs in a humble, kind manner and is always approachable. She retains her humor and smile on a consistent basis. She is an excellent pharmacist who lives the ICARE values.”

“I like the variety in my job,” says Pfoertner. “I work at both the Farmington and Bonne Terre locations. I like just being able to help people, and there is always something new to learn in pharmacy.” 

Pfoertner says she has a special interest in working to improve the safe use of antibiotics, and she is involved with PHC’s antimicrobial stewardship team and the BJC Collaborative.

ICARE is PHC’s patient experience service initiative; the acronym stands for Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Excellence.

Team members honored with Faces of Healing awards

Several team members were honored recently with Faces of Healing awards. They include BJSPH’s Kim Wagberg, surgical services; Kayla Clemens, telemetry; Allison Haupert, telemetry; Leilani Murphy, ICU; Katie Meahan, ICU; and Amanda Givens, ICU.

Faces of Healing awards are gifts made by patients or families that pay tribute to a health care team member who provided excellent care and made a difference in the patient’s visit or stay.

BJSPH’s Kim Wagberg, fifth from left, with friends and colleagues, earned a Faces of Healing award. | Courtesy photos

BJSPH’s Kayla Clemens, far right, and Allison Haupert, fifth from right, earned Faces of Healing awards.

ICU’s Leilani Murphy, third from left, earned a Faces of Healing award.

Katie Meahan, second from left, and Amanda Givens, third from left, were honored with the prestigious Faces of Healing award.

Lance Russell and Lisa Wigger

12 Days of Fitness winners are Lance Russell and Lisa Wigger

PWH’s Lance Russell and BJSPH’s Lisa Wigger won Trek bikes as part of BJC Help for Your Health’s 12 Days of Fitness program.

Employees who exercised for at least 30 minutes for 12 days during December, and turned in the 12 Days of Fitness entry form with a completed quiz, were eligible to win.

Charge nurse retires after 27 years

Donna Coats

Donna Coats, a charge nurse in the emergency unit, joined SLCH in 1992. She spent her entire career working in that department and retired this month after 27 years of service.

Her retirement reception was Feb. 7.

Coats says she has always loved taking care of the children at SLCH. “Having worked in the emergency unit for this period of time, I’ve seen and learned a lot. It has always been amazing to me that treatment of specific diseases has changed so much over the time I’ve been here,” she says. “There is always something new on the horizon.”

In addition to the children who stand out in her mind, Coats says she will always remember “all the amazing people I have worked with over the years.”

Get a 2019 Employee Spirit Day T-shirt

The SLCH Foundation will begin selling Spirit T-shirts this month. Proceeds go to programs and services for patients and families.

The cost is $26. You can make a one-time donation or chose to have $1 (or more) deducted each pay period.

On the first Friday of each month, employee giving participants are encouraged to wear their 2019 Spirit Day T-shirt and jeans.

Sale dates/times include:

• Feb. 18, 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Children’s Hospital lower level (in front of fish tank)
• Feb. 19, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., BJC @ The Commons, second-floor work room
• Feb. 20, 8:30-10 a.m., Mid Campus Center, Room 6103
• Feb. 21, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Specialty Care Center
• Feb. 22, 12:30-1:30 p.m., CAB Child Development Center
• Feb. 22, 1:30-2:30 p.m., Newstead Child Development Center

Email Julie.McCausland-Richey@bjc.org for more information.

Michael Kersting earns Daisy Award

Michael Kersting, pediatric acute wound service, earned a Daisy Award for nursing excellence, after caring for a patient who faced a difficult journey after surgery.

Kersting took initiative to arrange for extra safety and comfort measures for the patient.

“The family was dealing with a stressful and exhausting situation,” says Erica Allen, operating room, who nominated Kersting for the award. “Michael could have simply told the family that the patient would have to use what was available within the unit. Instead, he made small requests available.”

Michael Kersting receives a Daisy Award from Deb Parran, left, and Peggy Gordin, vice president. | Courtesy photo

Ashley Torti earns Daisy Award

Ashley Torti, newborn ICU, earned a Daisy Award for nursing excellence after caring for an unstable baby born prematurely.

She helped the tiny patient by delegating tasks, consistently communicating to the team what she needed for the patient, holding the patient and having pictures and feet and hand prints made for the family.

“Ashley is a wonderful nurse and didn’t waiver, even when unexpected events happened,” says Jessica Pona, operating room, who nominated Torti for the award. “That day it was apparent that the newborn ICU is where she is meant to be a nurse.”

Ashley Torti, newborn ICU, receives a Daisy Award from Peggy Gordin, vice president. | Courtesy photo

Malone named Children’s medical director of ethics

Dr. Jay Malone

Washington University pediatric critical care physician Jay Malone, MD, MS, was appointed medical director of ethics at SLCH. He will direct hospital-based clinical ethics initiatives such as education of faculty, staff and trainees, and improving the quality of clinical ethics consultation services.

He also serves as co-chair, along with Peter Michelson, MD, of the ethics subcommittee of the Children’s Medical Executive Committee (CMEC).

“The evidence shows ethics programs can have a strong impact on a hospital’s organizational culture and on professional quality of life for all health care professionals,” Dr. Malone says. “In addition, it’s been shown that well-run hospital ethics programs produce concrete benefits for employee morale and patient trust and satisfaction.”

In broad terms, Dr. Malone defines ethics as the moral principles that govern people’s behavior. In a health care system, he describes it as the manner in which people make decisions that impact their professional identity and their interactions with patients.

Dr. Malone believes creating this new position demonstrates the hospital’s ongoing commitment to providing the best experience possible for patients and their families.

“It also provides access for community physicians affiliated with Children’s Hospital to ethics consultations, should dilemmas arise in their practices,” he says.

Dr. Malone holds a master’s degree in health care ethics from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. He also has a master’s degree in health care ethics from Saint Louis University.

Save the date for employee gala at the Chase Hotel

The annual Children’s Hospital Employee Gala will be held March 23 at the Chase Park Plaza Royal Sonesta Hotel. All SLCH employees are invited to bring a guest, and both may attend at no cost. This event includes dinner and desert, and dress is business casual.

The celebration is held to:

• honor employees celebrating years of service milestones
• honor annual award nominees and winners
• thank staff for providing quality care and service to patients and families

More details about the event, including RSVP instructions, will be announced this spring via email and Children’s Chat.

Employee forums approaching

Employee forums will take place in the third-floor auditorium:

• Feb. 26, 3-4 p.m.
• Feb. 27, 3-4 p.m.
• Feb. 28, 10-11 a.m.

Topics will include hospital priorities, with Q&A to follow. Refreshments and drawings will be included.

More employee forum times, including senior leadership rounds during evening/night shifts and Children’s Specialty Care Center (CSCC) forum details, will be announced soon.

To submit questions in advance, contact John Miller, human resources, john.miller@bjc.org.

Highlights from the forums will be shared in Children’s Chat, and video of the entire forum will appear on Workplace by Facebook.

TRISL team celebrates anniversary with ice cones

In celebration of its one-year anniversary in St. Charles County, TRISL supplied complimentary Kona Ice cones to all employees, visitors, patients and families at BJSPH and PWH July 6.

“We would like to share our gratitude with the community, as well as our business partners at BJC HealthCare, for contributing so much to the success of our first year serving patients with high quality, top notch acute rehabilitation,” says Mark Dwyer, TRISL CEO. “Our team looks forward to many more successful years to come.”

TRISL in St. Charles County has cared for more than 525 patients during its first year in operation.

TRISL admissions team members Angela Jones and Rafael Munoz enjoy Kona ice cones in celebration of TRISL’s one-year anniversary in St. Charles County. | Courtesy photo

Happy 104th birthday, Johnnie

It was an exciting day at VNRC Jan. 18, as Johnnie Rivere celebrated her 104th birthday.

Rivere, a resident at Village North since 2005, lives independently in her own apartment. She loves to smile, sing and talk with people about a variety of subjects. She plays cards and enjoys eating out at restaurants. 

She says there’s no secret to being 104, but she does say that she has lived her life treating people the way she would want to be treated. 

Village North threw a birthday celebration for Rivere, complete with friends, a piano player playing her favorite songs, balloons, a champagne toast and plenty of cake.

Johnnie Rivere celebrates her 104th birthday at Village North Retirement Community.
| Courtesy photo