AMH has ‘Awesome’ employees

If you know of an 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:

• Josiah Ashcroft, ED
• Rachel Lair, ED
• Nicole Huff, ED
• Katie Groth, ED
• Michelle Peden, ED
• Dan Bartels, EMS
• Meghan Osterbur, EMS
• Elisha Bechtold, IMU

AMH Fitness Center ‘pumps you up’

AMH president Dave Braasch and business development director Rusty Ingram channeled their inner “Hans and Franz” for a recent video shoot promoting the fitness center in the AMH lower level that’s available for all AMH employees. For a one-time, $5 fee, and signing a waiver, employees can use the center, which includes plenty of exercise equipment. Employees can pick up the waiver in plant operations or HR. The forms are also available for download on the AMH intranet site.

AMH president Dave Braasch, left, and business development director Rusty Ingram channel their inner “Hans and Franz” to promote the fitness center in the AMH lower level that’s available for all AMH employees. | Photo by Meredith Parker

Safety Week celebrated Aug. 27-31

AMH Safety Week activities took place Aug. 27-31. The event included five different stations where employees could learn about things like body mechanics, safe patient handling, body/eye substance exposure, med sleds and fire safety.

Glen McAfoos, right, cardiac cath unit, gets some instruction on safe patient handling from the ICU’s Kevin Woods, center, and Jeff Lucht during AMH Safety Week activities. | Photos by Dave Whaley

Taylor Wernsing, rehabilitation services, standing, works with Rebecca Alexander, registration, on proper ergonomics while sitting at a computer during AMH Safety Week activities.

Goldfarb School of Nursing 2018 Homecoming event is Sept. 28

The Barnes-Jewish College Alumni Association invites alumni to join students, faculty and staff at the annual Homecoming celebration from 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Sept. 28, at Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College’s Duncan Campus,
4483 Duncan Ave., St. Louis.

The day includes lunch, a free T-shirt (while supplies last) and a fun-filled afternoon of entertainment and attendance prizes. Attendees will also have an opportunity take part in on- and off-site community service projects.

Join in for the day, or for just the celebration. For more information, and to register, visit BarnesJewishCollege.edu/Homecoming.

Barnes-Jewish receives Antimicrobial Stewardship Centers of Excellence designation

Barnes-Jewish Hospital is a recipient of the Antimicrobial Stewardship Centers of Excellence designation from the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA).

The program, launched in 2017, recognizes institutions that have created stewardship programs led by infectious diseases physicians and ID-trained pharmacists that are of the highest quality and have achieved standards established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

“As one of only 25 hospitals in the country to be awarded this designation, we’re extremely proud of our clinical teams that have worked hard to implement these new CDC standards,” says Katherine Henderson, MD, BJH executive director of clinical outcomes and quality, and assistant chief medical officer. “This is another safety and quality achievement for the hospital that allows us to deliver the best possible outcomes for our patients.”

Look for this article on BJCnet to see the other institutions receiving the designation.

“Each year, more than 700,000 people worldwide die due to antimicrobial resistant infections,” says IDSA fellow Paul Auwaerter, MD, MBA, FIDSA. “Antimicrobial resistance is one of the greatest threats facing health care on a global, national and individual level. IDSA has had a longstanding commitment to fighting antimicrobial resistance through its research, education, training and policy efforts.

“The Centers of Excellence program recognizes institutions that share our commitment by establishing antimicrobial stewardship programs that foster optimal therapies that protect patients from dangerous antimicrobial resistant infections, while safeguarding our vulnerable drug supply,” Dr. Auwaerter adds. “IDSA is proud to partner with each of these institutions in turning the tide against antimicrobial resistance.”

The IDSA Centers of Excellence program places emphasis on an institution’s ability to implement stewardship protocols using its electronic health record system and providing ongoing education to its medical staff. A workgroup of infectious diseases physicians and ID-trained pharmacists developed the core criteria for the Centers of Excellence program, building upon the criteria detailed in the CDC’s Core Elements of Hospital Antibiotic Stewardship Programs.

Lari Harris

Lari Harris retires

Facilities engineering painter Lari Harris retired June 8 after 44 years of service.

BJSPH/PWH Foundation Gala is Oct. 6

The 2018 “Health, Healing and Hope Gala and Auction” will take place from 6-10 p.m., Oct. 6, at Ameristar Casino in St. Charles.

Donations of items, baskets, experiences and more are still being accepted.

Also, Gala volunteers are still needed from 4:30-10:30 p.m., Oct. 6, at Ameristar. Contact Kristin Williams, Kristin.williams@bjc.org, if you can help.

Auxiliary awards $2,000 scholarships

The BJSP-PW Auxiliary has named its scholarship winners for 2018. They are:

• Sarah Batton is currently enrolled in the nursing program at St. Charles Community College and hopes to graduate within the next year with her nursing degree.
• Ashley Koeneman will graduate from St. Charles County Community College in 2019 with a degree in nursing.
• Brendan Maloney is attending the University of Missouri – Columbia this fall. He plans to apply to the Sinclair School of Nursing program while at Mizzou.
• Erica Maloney, Brendan’s sister, will also attend the University of Missouri – Columbia. She plans to pursue a degree in physical therapy.

Each of these students was awarded a $2,000 continuing education scholarship for their pursuit of a degree in the health science field.

New artwork beautifying halls at BJSPH and PWH

Have you enjoyed the new artwork at BJSPH and PWH?

Working with photographer Jay Fram, BJSPH and PWH have captured the essence of St. Charles County through the seasons in photos now brightening the hallways.

And there are more to come. The BJSP and PW Foundation is working to secure donors to get even more new artwork up in the hospitals.

So, keep your eyes open for new pictures in the future, and spread the word on how to support the foundation in bringing these beautiful photos to the hospitals.

New artwork hangs on the walls at BJSPH. | Courtesy photos

The artwork is also featured at PWH.

Save the date for Employee Health Fairs

Employee Health Fairs will take place in October. Save the following dates:

• Oct. 3, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., BJSPH Conference Room A
• Oct. 4, 7 a.m.-noon, BJSPH Conference Room A
• Oct. 9, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., PWH Conference Room B
• Oct. 10, 7 a.m.-1 p.m., PWH Conference Room B

Watch The Scoop for more details in the coming weeks.

Nurse celebrates 45 years of service

Deb Meyer, RN, 2 West, decided to become a nurse when she was a candy striper at the old Faith Hospital in St. Louis city.

Meyer first started her BJC career as an LPN at Christian Hospital Northwest. She became a nurse in 1973 and joined BJWCH in 2006. Her co-workers recently surprised her with an anniversary party to celebrate 45 years of being a nurse.

“BJC has offered me so many opportunities — from being a staff nurse to charge nurse, interim manager and assistant manager, then back to staff nurse in a variety of specialties,” Meyer says. “You just need the desire to seek out and try something different — you may surprise yourself and love the change.

“I have made so many dear friends at each facility,” Meyer adds. “We’ve shared good times and sad. But the one constant is, we always support each other, whether at home or work.”

She also enjoys being there for her patients. “Our patients are often anxious, scared and even alone,” she says. “I want to get to really know my patients and their families, then use the positive aspects to help them recover and have hope.”

“Deb’s years of service and nursing expertise are evident in her interactions and quality nursing she provides for our patients,” says Sue Freet, patient care manager. “She is our friend, mentor and a vital part of our team.”

2 West staff threw a party to celebrate 45 years of service for Deb Meyer, seventh from left. | Photo by Libby Martin

Eric Ruettgers named an Epic Employee of Distinction

Eric Ruettgers

Eric Ruettgers, GI nurse practitioner, stepped up to take a leadership role with Epic to educate and support physicians, nurses and nurse practitioners, and ensure a successful go-live. He keeps patient safety at the center of every decision he makes and resolves issues with compassion, positivity and skill. Ruettgers has won the Employee of Distinction Award for exemplifying the ICARE values.

If you have a co-worker like Ruettgers who stands out as an employee who makes BJWCH a special place to work, nominate him or her for the Employee of Distinction Award. Those who earn the award receive flowers, cake, gift card, certificate, and premiere employee parking space or bus pass, and are in the running for Employee of the Year.

Get a pulse on your health at employee fair

Get your biometrics health screening, including blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol check, at the Employee Health Fair to be held in Conference Room D:

• Sept. 15, 7-9 a.m.
• Sept. 17, 7-9 a.m.
• Sept. 18, 7 a.m.-3 p.m.

The fair also will feature booths with important health information and a free gift for attendees.

Magee honored for her empathy and experience

Gena Magee

“It was a privilege to witness excellent customer service.”

That’s how a colleague described the actions of Gena Magee, BJC Behavioral Health-North patient access representative, who took a phone call from the distraught mother of a client.

The colleague says Magee was calm and respectful as she patiently and clearly repeated what the caller said and showed empathy in how she responded. She gave the mother the time needed to share her concerns about the client, who had missed medication and was becoming increasingly unstable.

Magee, with the experience to know the importance of the call, followed up immediately with the case manager. The case manager and nurse then scheduled the client to come in that day.

Magee was able to help this mother and the client avoid a trip to the ER and a possible hospitalization, illustrating the vital role health information management staff have in client care.

For this reason, Magee was chosen as the service excellence winner for her site for July.

With every person, in every situation, Cogshell exemplifies mission

Charles Cogshell

Co-workers say it’s hard to think of just one example of how Charles Cogshell, BJC Behavioral Health-Central senior community support specialist, exemplifies the ICARE values. Rather, he bestows dignity and respect on every person, in every situation.

Cogshell is often found at the emergency department, providing outreach to clients, before many others are out of bed in the morning or long after they have returned home in the evening.

His co-workers say he is positive and committed to the mission of BJC Behavioral Health, selflessly serves clients, and works to make life better for staff and clients alike. He is always willing to talk and give support to his co-workers. He is slow to accept praise and often gives credit to others.

In recognition of all that he does, Cogshell was named the service excellence winner at his site for July.

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.”

Oasis Institute presents “Courageous Aging: Your Best Years Ever Reimagined”

Ken Druck, PhD, author, educator, executive consultant and media expert, will host two programs in St. Louis based on his best-selling book, “Courageous Aging: Your Best Years Ever, Reimagined.”

“Aging Courageously: A Community Conversation” will take place from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Sept. 26, at Maryland Heights Community Center, 2300 McKelvey Road, Maryland Heights. The panel of authors and experts includes Bob Chapman, president/CEO, Barry-Wehmiller Companies; Brian Carpenter, PhD, professor of psychological and brain sciences at Washington University; Nancy Morrow-Howell, PhD, MSW, director of the Harvey A. Friedman Center for Aging at Washington University; and Patrick White, MD, BJC Hospice chief medical officer. After brief comments on facing the challenges and opportunities of getting older, there will be a lively community conversation. The cost is $9. For more information or to register, call 314-862-4859, ext. 24.

A daylong “Courageous Aging Workshop” will be offered from 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Sept. 27, at the Center of Clayton, 50 Gay Ave., Clayton.

Topics include:

• overcoming age-related fears and changes that weigh heavily on our hearts and hold us back
• harvesting newfound opportunities for emotional freedom, joy, humility and peace
• watching ourselves, parents and kids get older, navigating change and transitions
• putting our psychological, legal, financial and spiritual “houses” in order

The workshop will be limited to the first 25 people to register. The cost is $120. For more information or to register, call 314-862-4859, ext. 24.

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.

Dr. Roberts joins Internal Medicine Specialists

Dr. Amy Roberts

BJC Medical Group welcomes Amy Roberts, MD, who will be practicing family medicine at Internal Medicine Specialists at Ladue.

Dr. Roberts earned her medical degree in 2002 from Indiana University School of Medicine and completed her residency in family medicine at St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis in 2005. She has more than 13 years of experience in primary care and is accepting new adult patients to her practice.

“My practice philosophy is to focus on each patient as a unique individual,” Dr. Roberts says. “It’s important for me to really get to know each of my patients to help customize their care to best meet their needs.”

At her primary care practice, Dr. Roberts provides general preventive care and treats and helps patients manage a variety of conditions, including chronic diseases such as asthma, diabetes and high blood pressure. She is also passionate about weight loss management and helps her patients focus on healthy lifestyle changes that are realistic for them to maintain long term.

“In my practice, I want to focus on the person, instead of only on the condition or problem,” Dr. Roberts explains. “It’s a privilege to be able to get to know so many people and be a part of their lives.”

Amy Roberts, MD, is a member of BJC Medical Group and is on staff at Missouri Baptist Medical Center. She practices at 8888 Ladue Road, Suite 210, St. Louis. To make an appointment, call 314-996-5900. Visit bjcmedicalgroup.org for more information.

Dr. Howard is new primary care physician at MBMC

Dr. Mark Howard

Mark Howard, MD, has joined Internal Medicine Specialists on the campus of Missouri Baptist Medical Center.

Dr. Howard earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin in 1995. He then completed his residency at the Harbor – University of California, Los Angeles, Medical Center in 2000.

As a board-certified primary care specialist, Dr. Howard has more than 18 years of experience caring for patients. “Getting to know my patients personally is the most rewarding aspect of being a physician,” Dr. Howard says. “My goal is to provide individualized care to meet the special needs of the patients I’m entrusted to care for.”

As a primary care physician, Dr. Howard focuses on preventive care for his patients. His special interests include sports medicine, nutrition education, including a familiarity with naturopathic medicine, care for aging adults, psychiatry and dermatology.

“Having worked with a very diverse group of patients in my career, I have a greater appreciation for the many approaches that keep my patients healthy — physically, emotionally and spiritually,” Dr. Howard says.

Mark Howard, MD, is a member of BJC Medical Group and is on staff at Missouri Baptist Medical Center. He joins Internal Medicine Specialists, 3009 N. Ballas Road, Building C, Suite 387, St. Louis. For more information, call 314-996-5900.

Dr. Lowe joins Sunset Hills Adult Medicine

Dr. Kathleen Lowe

BJC Medical Group welcomes Kathleen Lowe, MD, to Sunset Hills Adult Medicine, located within Missouri Baptist Medical Center’s outpatient facility in Sunset Hills. Dr. Lowe is board certified in internal medicine and geriatrics.

Dr. Lowe earned her medical degree from Creighton University School of Medicine and completed her residency in internal medicine at Mayo Clinic. Discovering a passion for the geriatric specialty, she completed an additional fellowship in geriatrics at Mayo Clinic.

In her practice, Dr. Lowe provides general preventive care and management of a variety of acute and chronic medical conditions. She specializes in primary care for adult patients, with a particular focus on caring for the geriatric population.

“As a primary care physician and geriatrician, I have the unique ability to get to know people and their stories and to partner with them in their health and wellness journey,” Dr. Lowe says. “I’m excited about the opportunity to take care of the whole person and serve as the quarterback for delivery of their health care. I strive to treat patients as I would want my family treated.”

Kathleen Lowe, MD, is a member of BJC Medical Group. She practices at Sunset Hills Adult Medicine, 3844 S. Lindbergh Blvd., Suite 120, Sunset Hills, Missouri. For an appointment, call 314-525-0490. For more information, visit bjcmedicalgroup.org.

‘Use A Lift: Get A Gift!’

BHC’s safe patient handling committee created the “Use A Lift: Get A Gift!” campaign to encourage patient care staff to use mechanical lifts in the care of their patients. 

All staff who used a lift during the campaign were able to enter their names in a drawing for a $25 gift card. Drawings were held every two weeks for three months. 

Gift cards were donated by Michael Szewczyk, MD.

Team members demonstrate use of a mechanical lift. | Courtesy photos

Bethany Blattel, RN, BSN, displays a “Use a Lift: Get a Gift” gift card.

Weatherspoon named VP, CNO

Lori Weatherspoon

Lori Weatherspoon has been named CH’s new vice president and chief nursing officer, effective Sept. 28. Weatherspoon replaces Gilbert Harding, who has served as CH’s interim CNO since last fall.

Weatherspoon is moving back to her hometown of St. Louis from Florida, where she has served as the chief nursing officer at HCA Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, the only Level II trauma center in the tri-county area. Weatherspoon has also held nursing senior leadership roles at HCA Overland Park Regional Medical Center in Overland Park, Kansas, and HCA Research Medical Center in Kansas City, Missouri. Weatherspoon has two decades of experience in emergency medicine, intensive care, patient safety, health care informatics technology and acute care settings.

Weatherspoon holds a master’s degree in health administration from Webster University and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Rockhurst University. She is a member of the American Organization of Nurse Executives, Missouri Organization of Nurse Leaders, Greater Kansas City Black Nurses Association and American College of Healthcare Executives, among others.

Get ready for Employee Health Fair 2018

Employee Health Fair 2018 is coming soon. The fair is for employees, volunteers and retirees and includes blood pressure, cholesterol and BMI screenings; information booths; pulmonary function testing; and flu shots. Those who participate in the wellness screening will receive lunch (sandwich, chips and drink) and a chance to win prizes from the CH Health Literacy Team.

Fair dates include:

• Northwest HealthCare
  • Oct. 12, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Community Room
• Christian Hospital
  • Nov. 2, midnight-2 a.m., hospital lobby
  • Nov. 12, 3-7 p.m., Atrium
  • Nov. 13, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Atrium

Christian Hospital Foundation ‘Heart of a Hero’ Award recipients honored

 The Heart of a Hero program recognizes physicians, nurses, housekeepers, volunteers and other hospital staff who have been nominated by patients and their families. For more information, contact the Christian Hospital Foundation, 314-653-5162 or chfoundation@bjc.org.

The following employees recently were honored for their commitment to providing compassionate care and dedication to excellence:

• Ramakrishna Venkatesh, MD, Washington University Surgical Group at Christian Hospital
• Marissa Brown, CH emergency department
• CH Community Health Access Team (Andrew Latour, Nicholas Marty, Tiffany McNair, Amanda Phelps and Jenny Reiker)

Staffers throw party at St. Louis Crisis Nursery

The CH Employee Activities Team gave a helping hand to the St. Louis Crisis Nursery on campus Aug. 9.

The team delivered cupcakes and ice cream and threw an “un-birthday party” for the kiddos at the center that day. The team also delivered toys and diapers donated by the CH Auxiliary for use at the center. Team members then spent time putting together the toys, adding/replacing batteries and playing games with the kids.

If your department or hospital group is interested in volunteering some time at a local charitable organization on behalf of CH, contact Sheryl McClary, 314-653-5193 or Sheryl.McClary@bjc.org, for T-shirts and/or for help choosing an organization.

CH Employee Activities Team members display some of the items they delivered to the St. Louis Crisis Nursery Aug. 9.| Photo by Bret Berigan

Tucker to be featured on KSDK Channel 5 evening news

KSDK Channel 5 TV news reporter and anchor Kay Quinn visited the Christian Hospital Emergency Medical Services (CHEMS) team Aug. 15 to meet Tucker, a 23-month-old bluetick hound, who will be featured in an upcoming news segment on the benefits of workplace support dogs.

Tucker, who joined the CHEMS team in June, is a U.S. Registered Support Animal and is registered with USA Service Dog Registration. Tucker also is currently completing Good Citizen K-9 Training. In the near future, Tucker will go through a therapy dog certification program.

CHEMS clinical supervisor Katie Eisenbeis brings Tucker to work Monday-Friday as a volunteer support dog for the CHEMS crews who respond to high-stress incidents in north St. Louis County. EMS emotional support dogs have been shown to help decrease stress in first responders after they respond to high-stress incidents. CHEMS crews are able to spend some time with Tucker and de-escalate after such incidents.

KSDK-News Channel 5 reporter and anchor Kay Quinn meets Tucker, a workplace support dog. CHEMS clinical supervisor Katie Eisenbeis brings Tucker to work as a volunteer support member to the CHEMS crews who respond to high-stress incidents in north St. Louis County. | Photo by Bret Berigan

Carol Hemker

Carol Hemker retires after 33 years of service

Carol Hemker, director of NWHC and CH business development, retired in August after 33 years of service. A retirement reception was held to honor her.

Evelyn’s House manager named Hospital Hero of the Month

Ann Short, RN, Evelyn’s House manager, was named the most recent Hospital Hero of the Month. Short was nominated by one of her peers through the Missouri Hospital Association for her dedication to BJC’s hospice house, Evelyn’s House.

Here’s an excerpt from Short’s nomination: “Ann is an incredible manager and goes above and beyond for the staff and the patients every day. She is flexible and always willing to listen to my updates on the patients and their needs when considering admission to the hospice house. She is very supportive of her staff and realistic on how many nurses are needed to care adequately for the patients. The feedback from the families has been very positive on how well their loved ones were cared for at the hospice house. Ann is a perfect fit for the job and always very flexible and professional when dealing with all the staff at Missouri Baptist Medical Center.”

“Ann is a very special person. She has a heart of hospitality,” says Stacy Olinger, BJC Home Care Services vice president. “When patients and families come to Evelyn’s House, she makes them feel as if they were at home. She provides the best in end-of-life care and is very deserving of this award. We are all proud of her.”

Ann received a certificate, pin and $100 gift card.

To recognize your own hospital hero, visit http://bit.ly/HeroThankYou.

Ann Short, center, is pictured with Stacy Olinger, RN, MSN, BJC Home Care Services vice president, and Patrick White, MD, BJC Hospice chief medical officer. | Photo by Jessica Mabb

Friends of Wings selected as Schnucks Charity of the Month

The Schnucks supermarket at 6920 Olive Blvd. selected the Friends of Wings as the latest beneficiary of the Schnucks – Bags 4 My Cause Program. For the entire month of April, every time a reusable Giving bag is purchased at this location, Friends of Wings receives $1. 

Aligned with BJC Hospice since 2001, Friends of Wings funds and mobilizes people around programs and services that support every moment of the hospice journey and celebrate the love that will never end. Programs are designed to provide moments of normalcy and joy, nurture healing, preserve memories and connect people with others sharing a similar experience — an experience that for most will be the most challenging of their lives. By making these programs possible, Friends of Wings is privileged to have positively impacted the journey for thousands of individuals across the St. Louis region.

Boy Scout builds birdhouses for Evelyn’s House patients and their families

Four tall, bright and colorful birdhouses are spaced evenly across the backyard of Evelyn’s House for residents and their families to enjoy watching birds from the patio of their guest suite.

The birdhouses were built and painted by Cameron Moseley, 17, a boy scout from Troop 641, in Creve Coeur, Mo. Nathan Rain, BJC information services, is his Scoutmaster.

Moseley, a life-ranked scout, built the birdhouses as his Eagle service project. He had to apply for approval for the project from the Boy Scout Council. Once approved, Moseley received donations from BJC and Home Depot to purchase supplies. Doing research, he found that these stand-alone birdhouses, sitting on a matching wooden pole with a solid wooden base, appear heavy enough to withstand usual wind gusts. “I hope Evelyn’s House guests and families get to see a variety of birds,” he says.

Rain’s son, Andrew, 12, helped Moseley with the birdhouses, and Boy Scout committee chair Scott Moseley and his wife helped Cameron transport the birdhouses to Evelyn’s House.

“Cameron did such a wonderful job on the colorful bird houses,” says Ann Short, RN, Evelyn’s House manager. “They are ingenious with a hinged door for easy cleaning. The birdhouses will provide hours of birdwatching enjoyment for our patients and families, and we hope to see some birds nesting soon, as we see quite a few bluebirds in the area.”

From left, Andrew Rain, Scott Moseley, Cameron Moseley, Evelyn’s House manager Ann Short, RN, and Nathan Rain are pictured with the birdhouses Cameron Moseley built and donated to Evelyn’s House. | Photo by Margie Schaffer

Attend ‘Food as Medicine: A Prescription for Quality of Life’ at MHB

“Food as Medicine: A Prescription for Quality of Life” will take place from 6-7:30 p.m. (registration is at 5:30 p.m.), Sept. 25, in the Memorial Hospital Belleville Auditorium. The event is open to the public.

Sponsored by Hospice of Southern Illinois, MHB and The Cancer Treatment Center, this event seeks to help participants:

• understand that food choices can reduce or elevate the risk for cancer, as well as other life-threatening diseases
• learn which foods and eating habits can either promote cancer or protect from cancers and other diseases
• learn diet-specific guidelines that may help to reduce the risk of the most common cancers in the U.S.
• identify changes in the role of food at end-of-life
• learn why it’s OK for a person to stop eating or drinking at the end-of-life

Speakers include:

• Laura Herr, MS, RDN, LDN, director of nutrition, wellness and community relations at The Cancer Treatment Center — Herr has 18 years of experience working with patients, physicians and administrators as a registered and licensed dietitian/nutritionist in Illinois.
• Nikki Muenchau, Hospice of Southern Illinois’ regulatory compliance education manager — Muenchau has more than 16 years of experience in end-of-life care.

Register online, www.hospice.org/events, or contact Lisa Phillipson, lphillipson@hospice.org.

The cost is $10 (for dinner), and 1.5 Illinois CEs are available for nurses, social workers and nursing home administrators.

Meet Memorial’s new patient access manager

Courtney Maxwell

Courtney Maxwell joined Memorial July 9 as MHB and MHE patient access manager. He has worked in health care for 17 years and was most recently central registration manager at Northwestern Medicine in Chicago.

In his new role at Memorial, Maxwell is responsible for overseeing patient access department staff, who capture patient information at preregistration, central scheduling and registration for lab, ED, ATC and FCBC. A patient’s first point of contact is typically with someone during scheduling or registration, and it’s important that registration data collected is accurate.

In the short time he’s been with Memorial, Maxwell has increased department efficiency by implementing a new staffing model. He is also a new member of BJC’s patient access redesign team.

Maxwell says the most rewarding part of his job is “seeing progress and witnessing an increase in employee morale.”

Chris Pool earns August EOM honors

Christopher Pool

Christopher Pool, MHE lead housekeeper, has been named Employee of the Month for August.

“Chris assumed additional duties until a replacement was hired to fill a vacant role. If that’s not dedication to the organization, I don’t know what is,” says one colleague.

Pool has been employed at Memorial for 10 years. He is responsible for daily housekeeping services at MHE and trains new employees.

Pool says the most rewarding part of his job is seeing staff work together to accomplish a common goal.

“Chris is well liked by all and does whatever job is needed,” says another colleague.

Lorraine Gavin does ‘exceptional work’

Lorraine Gavin

Lorraine Gavin, CTV surgery coder, earned July Employee of the Month honors. Here’s what her nominators had to say about her:

“Lorraine is a great team member. Other staff members regularly ask her for her assistance, and she consistently goes out of her way to assist them in resolving problems.

“Lorraine has strong customer service skills. She works with patients who are having billing issues, and I’m amazed by the patience she shows at times, especially when she’s working with the insurance companies. She acts as a liaison between clients and insurance companies. These are just a few examples of the exceptional work that Lorraine is performing here. I could go on and on.”

Wound Care Center receives new vital signs monitor

The MBSH Wound Care Center received a new Philips SureSigns VS4 electronic vital signs monitor. Funds from the Employee Campaign at MBSH and Fidelity Communications made the purchase of the new equipment possible.

“I am thrilled with the new vital signs cart,” says Sara Licklider, CNA. “We previously had two manual blood pressure machines for our four treatment rooms.”

Licklider says the new machine is even better than she had expected. “This machine is able to measure and record the patient’s blood pressure, temperature, heart rate and oxygen levels electronically at the same time, making the patient check-in at our center more efficient,” she says.

“We thank the supporters of the Employee Campaign for providing our new vital signs machine,” says Elizabeth Hellmann, Wound Care Center program director. “This will make a tremendous improvement in patient care in our center.”

From left are MBSH Wound Care Center staff Elizabeth Hellmann, program director, and Sara Licklider, CNA, with Employee Campaign committee members Gayle Peebles, HIM/MIS manager; Teresa Reeves, compliance/quality metrics coordinator; and Bobbi Jean Busse, Fidelity Broadcasting billing and traffic clerk.| Photo by David Hartwick

Employee Campaign supplies new waste receptacles for hospital

Thanks to the generosity of employees contributing to the Employee Campaign at MBSH and Fidelity Communications, four new outdoor trash cans were purchased to replace the open-topped receptacles on the hospital grounds.

“We’re glad that we were able to get new outdoor waste cans that attractively blend in where they’re located and accumulate less rain water with the refuse. It will make the job of gathering trash much easier for our employees,” says Charlene Tolle, housekeeping manager.

Employee Campaign committee members, from left, Gayle Peebles, HIM/MIS manager; Teresa Reeves, compliance/quality metrics coordinator; and Bobbi Jean Busse, Fidelity Broadcasting billing and traffic clerk, pose by one of the new waste receptacles. | Photo by David Hartwick

Cooperative’s charity golf tournament benefits MBSH

Crawford Electric Cooperative, the local Touchstone Energy Cooperative, held its 20th annual charity golf tournament June 29 at the Sullivan Country Club. Funds raised from the event will benefit MBSH’s Cancer Treatment Center and Crawford Electric’s Operation Round Up.

Through the past several years of fund raising, Crawford Electric has provided four patient treatment stations in the Cancer Treatment Center and several pieces of medical equipment for MBSH.

Recently, Crawford Electric Cooperative presented a check to the hospital for $5,300 from the June golf tournament. These funds will directly benefit patients receiving care at the Cancer Treatment Center.

“We sincerely appreciate Crawford Electric’s generous support to the hospital through the annual charity tournament,” says Lisa Lochner, MBSH vice president of operations. “Crawford Electric’s ongoing support has made a tremendous difference to the numerous individuals who receive their care in our hospital.”

MBSH administration, Cancer Treatment Center staff and Crawford Electric employees, with patient Lora DeClue, take part in Crawford Electric’s check presentation to MBSH. | Photo by Lori Rego, Crawford Electric Cooperative

Kids-on-Track Marathon wraps up at Fan Appreciation Day

MBSH’s summer Kids-on-Track finale took place at the Sullivan High School (SHS) Fan Appreciation Day, Aug. 18. The kids participating in the summer program gathered at the high school football track to run the last mile of the marathon.

The high school grounds were buzzing with fun activities and treats for all the kids attending Fan Appreciation Day. The Kids-on-Track participants were joined by the SHS cross country team, who ran with them and encouraged them on their final mile of the journey.

In total, 97 kids registered for the summer event to stay active and complete 26.2 miles of running, walking, biking or skating. When their final lap was complete, each kid was presented a trophy for the accomplishment.

The Medical Group organizers and sponsors of the event were pleased with the participation and the health benefits the program provides to the kids.

“All the kids worked hard to complete the full marathon again this year, and we were excited to celebrate their accomplishment with them,” says Natalie Counts, MBSH community health educator. “We want to thank the many local businesses who made this year’s Kids-on-Track event a success by their support.”

Participants start the last mile of the full marathon at this year’s Kids-on-Track finale. | Photo by Margie Juergens

Jennifer Brewer ‘always puts her patients first’

Jennifer Brewer

Jennifer Brewer, RN, is the ICARE Star Service Employee for July. Brewer, a nurse in the intensive care unit, has worked at PHC and Mineral Area Regional Medical Center for a combined total of 10 years. Her previous experience includes three years at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, where she worked in intensive care and in the pediatric cardiac intensive care unit.

Excerpts from Brewer’s nomination read, “Jen always takes time to explain things to patients and their families — to thoroughly educate them — and always has a smile for them. She spends time making sure all their needs are met and always puts her patients first. A truly caring person.”

Brewer says she strives to keep families informed and enjoys helping people feel comfortable in a setting they don’t want to be in. “I like to put myself in other’s situations and treat patients how I would want my mom or myself treated,” she says.

ICARE is PHC’s patient experience service initiative that stands for: Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Excellence.

BJSPH/PWH Foundation Gala is Oct. 6

The 2018 “Health, Healing and Hope Gala and Auction” will take place from 6-10 p.m., Oct. 6, at Ameristar Casino in St. Charles.

Donations of items, baskets, experiences and more are still being accepted.

Also, Gala volunteers are still needed from 4:30-10:30 p.m., Oct. 6, at Ameristar. Contact Kristin Williams, Kristin.williams@bjc.org, if you can help.

Auxiliary awards $2,000 scholarships

The BJSP-PW Auxiliary has named its scholarship winners for 2018. They are:

• Sarah Batton is currently enrolled in the nursing program at St. Charles Community College and hopes to graduate within the next year with her nursing degree.
• Ashley Koeneman will graduate from St. Charles County Community College in 2019 with a degree in nursing.
• Brendan Maloney is attending the University of Missouri – Columbia this fall. He plans to apply to the Sinclair School of Nursing program while at Mizzou.
• Erica Maloney, Brendan’s sister, will also attend the University of Missouri – Columbia. She plans to pursue a degree in physical therapy.

Each of these students was awarded a $2,000 continuing education scholarship for their pursuit of a degree in the health science field.

New artwork beautifying halls at BJSPH and PWH

Have you enjoyed the new artwork at BJSPH and PWH?

Working with photographer Jay Fram, BJSPH and PWH have captured the essence of St. Charles County through the seasons in photos now brightening the hallways.

And there are more to come. The BJSP and PW Foundation is working to secure donors to get even more new artwork up in the hospitals.

So, keep your eyes open for new pictures in the future, and spread the word on how to support the foundation in bringing these beautiful photos to the hospitals.

New artwork hangs on the walls at BJSPH. | Courtesy photos

The artwork is also featured at PWH.

Save the date for Employee Health Fairs

Employee Health Fairs will take place in October. Save the following dates:

• Oct. 3, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., BJSPH Conference Room A
• Oct. 4, 7 a.m.-noon, BJSPH Conference Room A
• Oct. 9, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., PWH Conference Room B
• Oct. 10, 7 a.m.-1 p.m., PWH Conference Room B

Watch The Scoop for more details in the coming weeks.

Remembering Marcia Reed, child development

Marcia Reed

Marcia Reed, Child Development Center (CDC)-Newstead, died Aug. 6.

Reed, 57, had worked at SLCH since 1998. As a CDC teacher for 20 years, she touched the lives of many children and families.

She joined SLCH as an infant caregiver before spending most of her career as a pre-kindergarten teacher

“She was an amazing educator who took great joy and pride in her work,” says Renee Williams, CDC manager. “She was loved by all the children she taught, and the feeling was absolutely mutual.”

“Marcia was a kind, loving person who was devoted to her children at the CDC, her family and her church,” says Carol Hill, CDC preschool specialist. “Marcia will be missed and remembered fondly by all who knew her.”

“Marcia is one of the best teachers my children have had,” says parent Liz Pratt. “Her love, compassion, patience and great storytelling is something I continue to strive for at home.”

“She was always in tune with the kids,” adds co-worker Devon Robinson. “She treated the children with dignity and respect. Marcia enjoyed the children, and she was good at it. That’s why she came to work every day.
She was a great person.”

Dr. Rubin recognized by Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation

Dr. Joshua Rubin

Joshua Rubin, MD, PhD, professor of pediatrics and neuroscience at WUSM, has received the Pioneer Award for Pediatric Neuro-Oncology from the Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation.

The charitable organization honored Dr. Rubin June 6 in New York for his research on aggressive pediatric brain tumors, as well as for his compassionate patient care and dedication to the field.

Dr. Rubin is co-founder and co-director of the pediatric neuro-oncology program at SLCH, where he treats patients. He is also a co-leader of the solid tumor therapeutics program at Siteman Cancer Center at BJH and WUSM.

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