So long, Chaplain Bruce

Chaplain Bruce Baumberger retired Jan. 4 after 12 years at AMH. Bruce, second from left, and his wife, Sandy, were wished well at a retirement reception that day by AMH president Dave Braasch, left, and vice president Brad Goacher, right. Baumberger will be missed at AMH. | Photo by Rusty Ingram

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, call Jeanne Truckey, 618-433-6047.

Recent Awesome cards went to:

• Alexa Hall, surgical services
  
• Anita Lucas, surgical services
• Laura Bock, surgical services
• Kelly Kain, surgical services
• Evelyn Campbell, surgical services
• Sergei Zacharev, MD, anesthesiology
• Andrew Funkhouser, nurse anesthetist
• Shannon Dorks, surgical services
• Robert Lewis Jr., plant operations
• Matthew Wright, security
• Thomas Brummett, MD, and staff
• Kaitlyn Lodes, performance improvement
• Beth Stephens, surgical services

Denise Alexander earns employee honor

Denise Alexander

Denise Alexander, MCU, was named the January Employee of the Month.

Her co-workers say, “Denise has been on the weekend team on MCU for several years, and recognition is long overdue. She is willing to fill any role. Denise is loved by her patients, and her co-workers look to her for guidance on a regular basis.

“Denise has groomed several new grads, and also student nurse techs, who come to work with her on the weekends. Denise is frequently complimented for the compassionate and thorough care she gives to her patients. Denise is very deserving of the Employee of the Month award.”

Congratulations to Cathy Storey

Cathy Storey recently retired as regional director of laboratory services for AMH and Christian Hospital. She retired with more than 17 years of service to BJC and more than 46 years of laboratory experience.

April Madden started Dec. 31, and Storey has been helping Madden transition into the role as the new regional director.

Cathy Storey is greeted by AMH president Dave Braasch upon her retirement as regional director of laboratory services for AMH and Christian Hospital. | Photo by Dave Whaley

AMH Heart-Stroke Fair is Feb. 2

Kyle Ogle

The 21st annual Alton Memorial Hospital Heart-Stroke Fair will take place from 8:30 a.m.-noon, Feb. 2.

Kyle Ogle, AMH Stroke Center coordinator, will give a presentation on stroke treatments in the cafe meeting rooms at 9 a.m.

Ogle will present a similar topic at the International Stroke Conference in Hawaii the following week.

The fair will also include more than 20 informational tables, screenings in the Wound Care Center and a boxed lunch from Firehouse Subs.

To register for the Heart-Stroke Fair and a fasting cholesterol screening during the fair, call 800-392-0936.

Finding comfort in crafts

Kristin Wadlow and her daughter, Annalynn Hanna, make a garland during the weekly craft activity for mothers with high-risk pregnancies in the BJH antepartum unit. Wadlow is on the unit awaiting the birth of twin girls. The craft activities are facilitated by Arts + Healthcare coordinator Sarah Colby. | Photo by Mary Williams

Thanks to all who donated clothes to the newborn ICU

Little tiny shout outs go to everyone who donated preemie and micro-preemie clothes to the newborn ICU at PWH. Posing with the adorable clothes, from left, are Cindy Earlewine, Kayla Behnen, Heather Decker, Dr. Scott Williams and Sandy Ray. | Courtesy photo

BJSPH Infusion Center has temporarily relocated

The BJSPH Infusion Center has temporarily relocated while the current space is remodeled and expanded.

As of Jan. 17, the Infusion Center is located in Suite 401 in MOB 2. The relocation should last about six weeks.

Giant blueberry pancake saves the day at PWH

When the flu bug recently hit the PWH emergency department team hard, many team members stepped up to help, including Kerby Boul, right, with Kameron Williams, who stepped in to do charge for the first time. Boul believed that a blueberry pancake would make everyone’s day better. The PWH food and nutrition team agreed and proceeded to make “the biggest blueberry pancake in PWH history.” | Courtesy photo

Redican retires

Vicki Redican recently retired from the BJSPH emergency department team, who sent her off with a big celebration.

Applications accepted through March 30 for memorial scholarship

Ronni Ducommun

PCTs looking to become an RN or get their BSN are encouraged to apply for the Ronni Ducommun Memorial Scholarship.

Ducommun was a registered nurse on the BJSPH medical unit for more than 11 years, serving as a preceptor and mentor to many new nurses. She was known not only as an excellent nurse and great co-worker, but also as a dear friend to all. Ducommun and her mother were killed in an automobile accident in 2017.

The Ronni Jean Ducommun Scholarship was established in her memory to carry on her spirit of caring and to encourage others to achieve their dreams of becoming a nurse. It’s an annual $1,000 scholarship available to any BJSPH or PWH employee who’s a current patient care tech working toward a bachelor’s degree in nursing or an RN degree.

For more information, call Kristin Williams, 636-916-9796. The scholarship winner will be announced during Nurses Week in May.

Biermann ‘is a true asset to the BJSPH team’

Clinical social worker Katie Biermann was recently honored as BJSPH’s Employee of the Month.

She was nominated by physical therapist Becky Bossier, who says Biermann demonstrates all four service priorities on a daily basis: safety, courtesy, expertise and efficiency.

“Katie is a pleasure to work with and a true asset to the BJSPH team!” Bossier adds.

Katie Biermann was recently selected as BJSPH’s Employee of the Month. Biermann, front row, center (in the white coat), pictured with her team, was nominated by Becky Bossier. | Courtesy photo

Andrea Hoeflinger named PWH Employee of the Month

Andrea Hoeflinger, RN, ED/ICU/OR team lead/charge nurse, was named PWH’s Employee of the Month.

Her nominator wrote: “I want to give a huge shout out to Andrea for all that she does here. She is always accommodating to us as ER staff, going above and beyond what needs to be done for our patients. She is always pleasant and prepared. I don’t know if she realizes just how much that means not only to us down here in the ER, but to everyone throughout the facility. Thank you a million times over, Andrea, for all that you do for us!”

Andrea Hoeflinger, front and center, with friends and colleagues, was named PWH’s Employee of the Month. | Courtesy photo

Town Halls start Feb. 6

The executive leadership team will host first-quarter employee Town Halls, starting Feb. 6.

Topics include the replacement hospital, including transition planning as the new facilities open, and the BJWCH culture of safety. There will also be time for Q&A. Bring your questions to the Town Halls, as the executive leadership team looks forward to continuing conversations with team members.

The Town Hall schedule includes:

• Feb. 6, 6:45 a.m.
• Feb. 9, 7:30 a.m.
• Feb. 12, 3:15 p.m.
• Feb. 19, 7:30 p.m.
• Feb. 25, 7:30 a.m.

All Town Halls will be held in conference room D.

Start the New Year with a quality celebration

The new year is the perfect time to celebrate BJWCH’s Vizient 2018 Bernard A. Birnbaum, MD, Quality Leadership Award. Stop by the cafeteria from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Jan. 23, and enjoy some sweet treats. Managers will deliver treats to off-site locations, and the house supervisor will deliver to evening, night and weekend staff.

In October, BJWCH received the award, which recognizes the hospital for demonstrating superior performance as measured by Vizient’s Quality and Accountability Study.

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.”

BJC employee and singing group visit Evelyn’s House

BJC employee Eric Lemmo first witnessed the impact of hospice care when a friend’s loved one was a hospice patient after a long battle with cancer.

“The love and care she received helped her come to terms with her death,” says Lemmo, BJC School Outreach and Youth Development (SOYD) school-community education partner. “Hospice provided a supportive space for her, her family and close friends to celebrate her life.”

More recently, as the SOYD liaison to the Pre-Professional Health Sciences Academy (PPHSA), a partnership between Parkway School District, Special School District, BJC SOYD and Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital, Lemmo made a connection with Evelyn’s House, BJC’s hospice house, looking to explore opportunities for the PPHSA students.

In addition to his work at BJC, Lemmo is also a member of the St. Louis Christmas Carolers Association (STLCCA), a non-profit volunteer group established by Ralston Purina founder William Danforth in 1911. The organization supports children’s charities throughout St. Louis, and Lemmo sings with The Kingsbury Place Singers, a semi-professional costumed group with the STLCCA.

On Dec. 20, Lemmo’s connections through his professional work, love of music and desire to support hospice collided. Eight vocalists from The Kingsbury Place Singers performed for Evelyn’s House patients and their families.

“Hospice centers sometimes are overlooked,” says Laura Matson, Evelyn’s House volunteer coordinator. “This was our first group of carolers at Evelyn’s House.”

To Lemmo, coordinating the event was a perfect way to give back. “While financial support is always needed, singing hopefully provided the patients and their families with some joy during what was sure to be a difficult holiday season,” he says.

The Kingsbury Place Singers, from left, Goldfarb School of Nursing employee Holly Mathis, BJC School Outreach and Youth Development employee Eric Lemmo, Laura Wiley, Conrad Dickey, Ellyn Petrovic, Charlie Hanford, Emily Meyers and Kevin Koontz prepare to sing to patients and families at Evelyn’s House Dec. 20. | Photo by Laura Matson, BJC Hospice

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.

Coppelli joins Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Kimberlee Coppelli

Kimberlee Coppelli, PA-C, a board-certified physician assistant, has joined BJC Medical Group Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. She collaborates with John Stirton, MD, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon in Alton, Illinois.

Coppelli earned her master’s degree in physician assistant studies from Seton Hill University in 2016. A St. Louis native, she has lived in Pennsylvania for the past 10 years, practicing as a cardiothoracic surgery physician assistant in Pittsburgh for the past two years.

“I believe in a patient-provider relationship that allows for shared decision making, so that together we can make a plan to achieve the patient’s goals,” Coppelli says. “I want to see patients regain their mobility so they can lead active lives.”

At BJC Medical Group Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Coppelli provides treatment for a wide variety of conditions. She discusses diagnoses and treatment options with patients; educates them on preventive care and health maintenance; orders laboratory and diagnostic procedures; orders, prescribes and administers medication, orthotics and other orthopedic devices; performs incisions, wound care, and joint aspirations and injections; and assists Dr. Stirton with orthopedic surgical procedures.

Kimberlee Coppelli, PA-C, is a member of BJC Medical Group and is affiliated with Alton Memorial Hospital. BJC Medical Group Orthopedics and Sports Medicine is at 4 Memorial Drive, Building B, Suite 130, Alton, Illinois, and can be reached at 618-463-7600.

Mudd is new primary care provider

Melissa Mudd

Melissa Mudd, FNP-C, has joined BJC Medical Group at the Highlands as a primary care provider.

Mudd earned her master’s degree in nursing from Maryville University in 2018. She has been a nurse at Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital since 2012.

Mudd chose to practice primary care because she is passionate about promoting adult wellness and seeing people thrive in their health.

“I strive to build interpersonal relationships with my patients and take the extra time to ensure that we have a complete assessment before moving forward,” she says.

At BJC Medical Group at the Highlands, Mudd provides general primary care, including annual wellness exams, care for chronic and acute conditions, disease prevention and management, health promotion, and customized dietary and fitness guidance.

Melissa Mudd, FNP-C, is a member of BJC Medical Group at 1110 Highlands Plaza Drive, Suite 280, St. Louis. For more information about the practice, call 314-273-0195 or visit bjcmedicalgroup.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.

Christian Hospital performs 100th TAVR procedure

CH’s 100th transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) case was successfully completed Jan. 9. Cardiothoracic surgeon Nabil Munfakh, MD, and interventional cardiologist Saad Bitar, MD, performed the complex procedure in the hybrid room, which combines capabilities of a cardiac cath lab with a surgical room. Sam Bishara, MD, and Ali Ziaee, MD, assisted, along with the TAVR clinical support team, led by Andrew Pitts, RN, MSN, heart valve program coordinator.

All CH team members are invited to celebrate this milestone from 3-4 p.m., Jan. 29, in the new hospital lobby Community Room. Cake and refreshments will be served.

TAVR is for select patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis (narrowing of the aortic valve opening) who aren’t candidates or are high-risk for traditional open-chest surgery. CH’s first TAVR was performed in April 2016.

From left are Rachel Heafner, Becky Edwards, Matt Breckner, Andrew Pitts, Diana Simpson, Sloan Kessinger, Scott Becker, Brook Hausman and Portia Dixon. | Courtesy photo

Alzheimer’s Resource Center now on CH campus

The Alzheimer’s Association Greater Missouri Chapter was welcomed to the CH campus last month with the opening of the Alzheimer’s Resource Center in Medical Office Building 1, Suite 204E.

The Alzheimer’s Resource Center offers care consultations, early stage programs, education classes, faith outreach, support groups and more. For more information, visit alz.org/greatermissouri or call 800-272-3900.

CH president Rick Stevens and Alzheimer’s Association chapter president Stacy Tew-Lovasz, center, are surrounded by CH case management and Alzheimer’s Association team members at the Alzheimer’s Resource Center open house Dec. 18. | Photo by Bret Berigan

Attend an employee Town Hall meeting

All employees are encouraged to participate in CH’s Town Hall meetings and become informed. Attend a Town Hall during January at your work location:

• Christian Hospital Atrium
  • Jan. 22, 9:30-10:30 a.m. and 5-6 p.m.
  • Jan. 23, 8:30-9:30 a.m. and 10-11 a.m.
• Northwest HealthCare
  • Jan. 23, 2:30-3:30 p.m., Community Room
  • Jan. 31, 5-6 a.m., ED nurses station
  • Jan. 31, 9:30-10:30 a.m., Community Room

Email your questions directly to rls1203@bjc.org.

Curiosity Shoppe closed

After 54 years in business, the Curiosity Shoppe closed its doors for good Jan. 18.

The Auxiliary is committed to providing the convenience of purchasing uniforms on site and will return to hosting quarterly uniform sales on site. Dates of the uniform sales will be finalized and communicated soon.

“We have thoroughly enjoyed serving our customers and having the opportunity to assist funding our annual health care scholarships for North County students,” says Millie Hancock, Auxiliary president. “While it has been worthwhile over the years, it has become a challenge to have items on the shelves for purchase due to low donations. We would like to thank our customers for supporting the shop through the years. It has truly been a pleasure!”

Chocolate sale is Jan. 22 and 23

A chocolate sale will take place from 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Jan. 22, and from 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Jan. 23, in the CH lobby Community Room.

New name. New logo. Same quality service.

As of Jan. 1, Village North Health Center, the skilled nursing and rehabilitation side of Village North Retirement Community, officially is known as Christian Extended Care & Rehabilitation.

The portion of the community in which independent seniors live in their own private apartments will continue to be called Village North Retirement Community.

“We realized that the double use of the ‘Village North’ name could be causing confusion with those looking for either independent living or skilled nursing for their loved ones or themselves,” says Roger Byrne, executive vice president and CFO of Bethesda Health Group and the 2018 president of the Village North board of directors. “We also realized the advantages of aligning with Christian Hospital and its reputation for quality, conscientious care for residents of North County and their families.”

Currently rated as a five-star community by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) in the area of Quality Services, the skilled nursing and long-term care services at Christian Extended Care & Rehabilitation are provided by the experienced professionals from Bethesda, which owns the community along with BJC HealthCare.

In addition, Bethesda provides rehabilitation and therapy services at all of its skilled nursing communities, Christian Extended Care & Rehabilitation included.

For more information about Christian Extended Care & Rehabilitation or Village North Retirement Community, call 314-355-8010 or go to www.VillageNorthRetirement.org.

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

Stella Rains is December Employee of the Month

Stella Rains

Stella Rains, MHE Family Care Birthing Center birth certifier, was named the December Employee of the Month.

“Stella is a dedicated, highly motivated staff member who goes above and beyond to ensure her work is done effectively,” says a colleague. “She is always willing to go the extra mile and is an asset to the department.”

Rains has been employed by Memorial for six years. Her responsibilities include reporting births to the state, auditing medical records and validating physician orders. “Stella is an exemplary employee. She is an expert at birth certificates but also ensures we have prenatal records and correct charts,” says Stacy Mauch, Family Care Birthing Center nurse manager.

Rains says the most rewarding part of her job is working with “an amazing group of doctors, nurses and support staff.” She says it’s an honor to work for Memorial and humbling to be chosen as Employee of the Month.

Renee Secrest retires after 31 years

Renee Secrest

Renee Secrest, RN, contributed to patient care at Memorial as a float pool nurse for almost 31 years. Secrest, who retired in early January, says she enjoyed working as a float nurse because it allowed her to see and experience much of the hospital. Her favorite aspects of the job were having seasoned nurses available for advice and helping new nurses herself.

She adds that the role of precepting is so important, “because one day the new nurses could be caring for me!”

During retirement, Secrest looks forward to spending time on the back of her husband’s motorcycle, gardening, traveling, caring for herself more and trying some of the many accumulated craft projects she’s been putting off.

Retiring Dianne Herzig will miss department’s camaraderie

Dianne Herzig, RN, retired the week of Jan. 4. Herzig worked in 2 North-telemetry for 26 and a half years; in that time, she had only three nurse managers. She attributes that consistency to Memorial being a great place to work and the telemetry department’s camaraderie.

She says what she enjoyed most about her work was being a preceptor — teaching new nurses and students how to care for patients and the importance of going above and beyond.

What she’s most looking forward to in retirement is doing more gardening, cooking more and becoming a “professional relaxer.”

Christine Breidenbach, care management care coordinator, left, with Dianne Herzig. | Courtesy photo

Hampel retires after more than 40 years in ICU

Ann “Annie Potts” Hampel, RN, worked in ICU at Memorial for almost 42 years, before retiring at the beginning of January. She says she has enjoyed working with all of her various team members over the years.

During retirement, she looks forward to continuing to run (which she did on her lunch break around the hospital); traveling more with her husband, who also recently retired; spending more time with her grandchildren; and continuing to play softball in the Senior Games, where she plays right center, along with fellow Memorial employee Kim Howell, RN, emergency department director.

Kim Howell, ED director and fellow softball teammate, left, with Ann “Annie Potts” Hampel. | Courtesy photo

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!”

MBSH manager helps local educators

Robin Butts, MBSH therapy and wellness manager, recently presented the S.A.F.E. (aka Safe To Speak) program to educators at the Sullivan Public School District’s Professional Development Day.

The intention of the S.A.F.E. initiative is to create a work environment in which employees feel safe speaking to each other about difficult issues. Through the tools provided by the program, any work-related problems can be easily resolved in a one-on-one safe moment encounter.

“Robin is a dedicated, hardworking manager,” says Lisa Lochner, MBSH vice president of operations. “She is a tremendous asset to her department, the hospital and our community.”

Robin Butts, MBSH therapy and wellness manager, standing, presents the S.A.F.E. program to educators at the Sullivan Public School District’s Professional Development Day. | Courtesy photo

Patricia 'PJ' Williams

‘PJ’ Williams is Star Service Team Member for December

Patricia ‘PJ’ Williams, RN, has been selected as the ICARE Star Service Team Member for December. Williams, a nurse in the intensive care unit, has worked at PHC and Mineral Area Regional Medical Center for a combined total of seven years.

Excerpts from her nomination read: “She is a wonderful mentor, a caring nurse and a great peer to all of her fellow workers. She will work in any department and treat everyone with the utmost respect. She makes sure that no matter who you are, you know that you are important to her and everyone around.”

Williams says she was excited that her co-workers nominated her for the award.

When asked what she likes about her job, Williams says, “I love the people! It’s my home away from home.”

ICARE, PHC’s patient experience service initiative, stands for the following values: Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Excellence.

Thanks to all who donated clothes to the newborn ICU

Little tiny shout outs go to everyone who donated preemie and micro-preemie clothes to the newborn ICU at PWH. Posing with the adorable clothes, from left, are Cindy Earlewine, Kayla Behnen, Heather Decker, Dr. Scott Williams and Sandy Ray. | Courtesy photo

BJSPH Infusion Center has temporarily relocated

The BJSPH Infusion Center has temporarily relocated while the current space is remodeled and expanded.

As of Jan. 17, the Infusion Center is located in Suite 401 in MOB 2. The relocation should last about six weeks.

Giant blueberry pancake saves the day at PWH

When the flu bug recently hit the PWH emergency department team hard, many team members stepped up to help, including Kerby Boul, right, with Kameron Williams, who stepped in to do charge for the first time. Boul believed that a blueberry pancake would make everyone’s day better. The PWH food and nutrition team agreed and proceeded to make “the biggest blueberry pancake in PWH history.” | Courtesy photo

Redican retires

Vicki Redican recently retired from the BJSPH emergency department team, who sent her off with a big celebration.

Applications accepted through March 30 for memorial scholarship

Ronni Ducommun

PCTs looking to become an RN or get their BSN are encouraged to apply for the Ronni Ducommun Memorial Scholarship.

Ducommun was a registered nurse on the BJSPH medical unit for more than 11 years, serving as a preceptor and mentor to many new nurses. She was known not only as an excellent nurse and great co-worker, but also as a dear friend to all. Ducommun and her mother were killed in an automobile accident in 2017.

The Ronni Jean Ducommun Scholarship was established in her memory to carry on her spirit of caring and to encourage others to achieve their dreams of becoming a nurse. It’s an annual $1,000 scholarship available to any BJSPH or PWH employee who’s a current patient care tech working toward a bachelor’s degree in nursing or an RN degree.

For more information, call Kristin Williams, 636-916-9796. The scholarship winner will be announced during Nurses Week in May.

Biermann ‘is a true asset to the BJSPH team’

Clinical social worker Katie Biermann was recently honored as BJSPH’s Employee of the Month.

She was nominated by physical therapist Becky Bossier, who says Biermann demonstrates all four service priorities on a daily basis: safety, courtesy, expertise and efficiency.

“Katie is a pleasure to work with and a true asset to the BJSPH team!” Bossier adds.

Katie Biermann was recently selected as BJSPH’s Employee of the Month. Biermann, front row, center (in the white coat), pictured with her team, was nominated by Becky Bossier. | Courtesy photo

Andrea Hoeflinger named PWH Employee of the Month

Andrea Hoeflinger, RN, ED/ICU/OR team lead/charge nurse, was named PWH’s Employee of the Month.

Her nominator wrote: “I want to give a huge shout out to Andrea for all that she does here. She is always accommodating to us as ER staff, going above and beyond what needs to be done for our patients. She is always pleasant and prepared. I don’t know if she realizes just how much that means not only to us down here in the ER, but to everyone throughout the facility. Thank you a million times over, Andrea, for all that you do for us!”

Andrea Hoeflinger, front and center, with friends and colleagues, was named PWH’s Employee of the Month. | Courtesy photo

Dr. Alexis Elward promoted to chief medical officer

Dr. Alexis Elward

Alexis Elward, MD, MPH, was named SLCH’s chief medical officer. The appointment became effective Jan. 1.

Dr. Elward will provide physician leadership for quality, safety, growth and other strategic priorities. She will work closely with hospital and physician leaders, Washington University School of Medicine, and BJC.

Dr. Elward previously served as associate chief medical officer.

“Nationally recognized and clinically respected, Alexis is an outstanding leader,” says Mark Shen, MD, SLCH president. “She will enhance our momentum as a top regional children’s health care network.”

She succeeds F. Sessions Cole, MD, as chief medical officer. Dr. Cole, the Park J. White Professor of Pediatrics, will continue to play an important clinical role. One example of his ongoing oversight is his work with the National Institutes of Health Undiagnosed Diseases Network, which helps patients with the rarest of rare diseases.

“We thank Sesh for his outstanding leadership as our hospital’s first chief medical officer. His passion and advocacy for pediatric medicine and research exemplify our mission of doing what’s right for kids,” Shen says.

Dr. Elward earned her medical degree from the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore and her master’s degree in public health from Saint Louis University. She completed her residency and an infectious disease fellowship at SLCH/WUSM. A professor of pediatrics at WUSM, she served as infection prevention and control medical director for eight years. She also served on the hospital infection control practice advisory committee and the advisory committee on immunization practices of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Dr. Elward has received NIH and CDC research funding on the epidemiology and outcomes of hospital-acquired conditions. She also has led SLCH process improvement initiatives, including several ongoing projects designed to reduce health care-acquired conditions.

‘A Benevolent Purpose’ – Celebrating 140 years of St. Louis Children’s Hospital

Join in the opening of “‘A Benevolent Purpose’ — Celebrating 140 Years of St. Louis Children’s Hospital,” a new exhibit in Becker Library’s Glaser Gallery. The opening takes place from 4:30-6:30 p.m., Jan. 31.

At 4:30 p.m., Stephen Logsdon, head of archives, will deliver the 70th Historia Medica lecture focusing on the early history of SLCH, followed by a reception and exhibit viewing, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Light refreshments will be provided. The event is presented by the Bernard Becker Medical Library and the Center for History of Medicine.

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