Love ’em or lose ’em: Engaging and retaining top team members

About 75 AMH employees gathered in the cafe meeting rooms April 2 for a program called “Love ‘Em or Lose ‘Em,” based on a best-selling book about engagement strategies for managers designed to get good employees to stay. Kathy Haskenhoff from BJC led the seminar. | Photo by Dave Whaley

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 nursing 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:

• April Nalepa, radiology
• Britanny Miller, surgical services
• Jen Snyder, surgical services
• Ashley Poole, housekeeping
• Megan Weidner, MCU
• Patty Fields, HMI
• Shawna Watts, food and nutrition services
• Heather Cummines, MCU
• Lauren Wetzel, MCU
• Rita Pranger, MCU
• Alla Maxeiner, patient access
• Jarrick Lumma, MCU
• Denise Alexander, MCU
• Kaylee Fritts, MCU
• Monica Perkinson, housekeeping
• Stacy Johnson, housekeeping
• Ametra Vaughn, housekeeping
• Jennifer Lowe, outpatient registration
• LaToya Vaughn, registration
• Emily Uhe, outpatient registration
• Abigail Cosgrove, MD, ED
• Morgan Bean, laboratory

Kyle Ogle earns AMH April employee honor

Kyle Ogle

Kyle Ogle, performance improvement/neurodiagnostics, is AMH’s April Employee of the Month.

“Kyle has a passion for his job,” his co-workers say. “He recently conducted research to determine the best way for EMS to triage stroke patients. This research led to the selection of a pre-hospital stroke screening tool. This scale has received a positive response regionally, and up to 85 ambulance services in southern Illinois may be following our lead. Kyle’s abstract was presented to the International Stroke Conference in February.

“When Kyle is not busy conducting research, he can be found responding to neuro team codes, coaching and educating those who provide care for stroke patients, attending BJC system level meetings for the program, or creating valuable information that was used during the recent Stroke Center Joint Commission survey at AMH. We are so proud of all Kyle has done and will do in the future!”

AMH, board member honored by city

Joanne Adams

AMH is being honored by the City of Alton in the third annual Altonian of the Year Awards.

AMH is receiving the Business of the Year award for demonstrating an ongoing commitment to the health and well-being of the Alton community through free educational programs and continued donations to various organizations throughout the community.

Joanne Adams of the Alton Memorial Health Services Foundation board is also receiving the Citizen of the Year honor for her tireless volunteer work with the SAK (Serving Area Kids) program, which provides meals to children in the Alton community during the summer months.

The Altonian of the Year awards are given out by the city’s Community Relations Commission, based on nominations from the community. Honorees will be recognized at the City Council meeting at 6:30 p.m., April 24.

Transplant Awareness Day is April 28

Join the Washington University and Barnes-Jewish Transplant Center and St. Louis Children’s Hospital
April 28 for Transplant Awareness Day with the St. Louis Cardinals.

You’ll receive a special edition Cardinals cap with the purchase of your theme ticket — and a portion of each ticket sale will go toward supporting organ donation and transplant.

Visit cardinals.com/transplant to learn more.

Providers at BJSPH, PWH enjoy Doctors Day festivities

With Doctors Day falling on a Saturday this year (March 30), BJC providers in St. Charles County enjoyed breakfast at BJSPH and lunch at PWH March 29.

Joseph Kohout, MD, emergency department, and Karen Mohan, BJSPH physician services supervisor, get in the spirit of Doctors Day at BJSPH March 29. | Photo by Kate Gase

From left, Saira Asadullah, MD, internal medicine; Aubra Houchin, DO, family medicine; and Edward Stein, DPM, podiatry, smile for the camera at BJSPH. | Photo by Karen Mohan

From left, Brian Grus, MD, internal medicine; Andrew Fresenburg, PWH finance director; and Kendall Itoku, MD, urology, enjoy lunch at PWH March 29. | Photo by Karen Mohan

Mark your calendar for 2019 Town Hall meetings

Dates have been announced for the 2019 Town Hall meetings. All of the meetings will start at noon.

• BJSPH Town Halls: May 2 and Sept. 17, MOB 1, room 108A
• PWH Town Halls: May 9 and Sept. 12, conference room B

Mary Beth Smegmer and Teresa Talken

Employees of the Month honored

Mary Beth Smegner, BJSPH surgical services recovery room staff nurse, and Teresa Talken, PWH patient care tech, recently received Employee of the Month honors.

Blood drives to be held at BJSPH, PWH April 25

Both BJSPH and PWH will hold blood drives from noon-4 p.m., April 25.

The BJSPH drive will take place in Medical Office Building 1, room 117. Call 800-REDCROSS (800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter: BJstpeters to schedule an appointment.

The PWH drive will take place in conference room B. Call 800-REDCROSS (800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter: ProgressWest to schedule an appointment.

Students can apply now for Auxiliary scholarships

Applications are now being accepted for the 2019-2020 BJSPH-PWH Auxiliary scholarships. This $2,000 continuing education scholarship is for students pursuing a degree in the health
science field.

To be eligible, students must be a St. Charles County resident and must have completed 20 hours of credit in a human-health-related field at an approved U.S. college or university. Students who have been awarded this scholarship in the past are ineligible.

For more information, call Carol Conner, 636-795-9960

Spring Professional Development Program participants honored

The Spring 2019 Professional Development Program (PDP) recipients at BJWCH include:

• Ann Bearden – PDP 5 renewal
• Janine (Jan) Jerome-Hoffman – PDP 3 initial
• Sabia Jethi – PDP 3 initial
• Tameeka Moses – RSCT – 2 renewal
• Jenny Rehrig – PDP 4 renewal
• Mary (Jill) Wiesler – PDP 3 initial

“We are here to celebrate your excellence, the inspiration you give us through your learning and the difference you make in the lives of patients, families and the community we serve,” said Yoany Finetti, patient care services vice president and chief nursing officer, at the PDP dinner March 27.

From left, BJWCH vice president of patient care Yoany Finetti congratulates Spring 2019 PDP recipients, including Jill Wiesler, Ann Bearden, Jenny Rehrig and Sabia Jethi. Tameeka Moses and Jan Jerome-Hoffman are not pictured. | Photo by Kelly Pahl

Nursing award nominations due May 3

BJWCH will celebrate Nurses Week May 6-12 and is seeking nominations for the nursing awards.

Nominations are sought for:

• Excellence in Nursing (one RN award recipient)
• Rising Star (one RN award recipient)
• Friend of Nursing (one award recipient)

Award recipients will be chosen by nursing leadership based on the information provided on nomination forms. Nursing award recipients and nominees will be honored at the Nursing Excellence Awards Dinner May 9. The Friend-of-Nursing Award will be presented during the Hospital Week barbecue May 15.

Place completed nominations in the drop box located in the cafeteria or send to Michelle Jamison, Michelle.Jamison@BJC.org, by May 3.

Walking for a stigma-free world

Face painting, superheroes, food trucks, music, dancing and fun. That’s what’s in store when you join BJC Behavioral Health’s team for the 17th annual National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Walks fund-raiser May 4 in Central Park-Chesterfield.

Each year this event has grown, but so has the need.

For more than 30 years, NAMI St. Louis has educated the public about mental illness, worked to eliminate stigma and advocated for funding and research into the causes and treatment of mental illness.

In 2018, NAMI St. Louis served more than 20,000 clients through presentations and trainings, educational classes, and support groups, as well as providing crisis intervention training (CIT) for nearly 700 police officers. The organization also designed a new presentation, “Ending the Silence,” which reached more than 2,500 middle and high school students, teaching them about the signs and symptoms of mental illness.

To join BJC Behavioral Health’s team in walking to celebrate mental illness recovery, honor those who have lost their lives to mental illness, and help raise funds, combat stigma and promote awareness, go to https://www.namiwalks.org/team/BJCBehavioralHealth register online.

Click on “Join Our Team” to register to walk or “Support Us” to make a donation.

For more information, call Marilynn Hart, 314-206-3712.

NAMI Walks details:

• Saturday, May 4, 9 a.m. check-in, 10 a.m. start
• Central Park, 16365 Lydia Hill Drive, Chesterfield, MO
• Walk options: 5K or 1 mile (walkers may walk shorter distances)

BJC Behavioral Health team members gather for a photo at last year’s NAMI Walks fund-raiser. | Courtesy photo

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.”

Chris Mate is new vice president of BJC IT application delivery and solutions

Chris Mate

Chris Mate has joined BJC as vice president of IT application delivery and solutions. He will report to BJC senior vice president and chief information officer Jerry Fox.

Mate will provide executive leadership for the delivery of day-to-day application services to BJC users, business partners and customers/patients. He will lead and provide oversight for teams that design, implement and maintain IT solutions and enable changes in both corporate and clinical application environments. Mate and his team will be instrumental in simplifying BJC IT systems and executing new digital business capabilities.

Mate brings 25 years of experience in developing and managing large-scale IT systems. He joins BJC from Ameren, where he served as digital business and corporate services senior director. Prior to Ameren, he was a technology leader with PricewaterhouseCoopers, serving as a director within the company’s health care practice.

Mate has also served as the senior IT director with Ascension Health, responsible for its large-scale IT transformation program to simplify applications across 75 hospitals. Throughout his career, he has gained extensive IT systems experience in multiple industries, including financial services, health care, freight/logistics and manufacturing.

Mate earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Bowling Green State University. He is excited about the opportunity to return to the health care industry and, specifically, to join the IT transformation effort with BJC information technology leadership.

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.

New sleep medicine physician joins Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital

Dr. Cathy Cheng

Cathy Cheng, MD, FACP, a full-time sleep medicine physician, has joined BJC Medical Group’s Center for Sleep Medicine in West County.

After graduating from Harvard University with highest honors in biology, Dr. Cheng received her medical degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, where she earned various clinical and research awards related to geriatrics.

She completed her internal medicine residency at the University of California Davis Medical Center, where she was the only resident across all specialties voted to be inducted into the 2014 Gold Humanism Honor Society. Pursuing her passion for sleep medicine, she then completed her sleep medicine fellowship at Stanford University.

“It’s a privilege to help patients optimize the one third of their lives spent sleeping, which in turns drives the health and quality of the remaining two thirds of their lives spent awake,” Dr. Cheng says. “My goal is to treat each patient as I would my own family. I also strongly believe that education is empowerment, and I try to educate my patients and community to the best of my ability, so they’re empowered to make informed decisions.”

Dr. Cheng is passionate about mentoring and medical education, and she has received multiple awards for medical student teaching.

As a sleep medicine physician, Dr. Cheng provides care for a variety of conditions, such as obstructive and other types of sleep apnea, insomnia, circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders, restless legs syndrome, hypersomnias, and parasomnias.

Cathy Cheng, MD, FACP, is a member of BJC Medical Group and is on staff at Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital. Her practice is at 969 Mason Road, Suite 250, St. Louis. For more information, call 314-996-8072 or visit bjcmedicalgroup.org.

BJC Medical Group welcomes established primary care physician in St. Charles County

Dr. Saira Asadullah

BJC Medical Group at St. Peters welcomes Saira Asadullah, MD, a board-certified internal medicine and geriatric medicine physician. Dr. Asadullah has been practicing on the campus of Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital in private practice for 11 years. She cares for adult patients and is accepting new patients.

Dr. Asadullah received her medical degree from the Medical School at Aga Khan University Medical College in Pakistan in 1992.
She completed her internal medicine residency at the University of Illinois College of Medicine in 1998 and a geriatric medicine fellowship at the University of Nebraska in 1999.

Dr. Asadullah provides general primary care for her patients, including physical exams, women’s wellness exams and Pap smears, removal of benign moles, geriatric assessment and care, diabetes care, hypertension management, and weight management.

Saira Asadullah, MD, is a member of BJC Medical Group and is on staff at Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital. Her practice is at 201 BJC St. Peters Drive, Medical Office Building 3, Suite 200, St. Peters, Missouri. For more information, call 636-916-9615 or visit bjcmedicalgroup.org.

Boone opens new lab draw location in Broadway Medical Plaza

When it comes to lab testing, BHC’s laboratory services team believes that comfort and convenience are equally as important as receiving timely and accurate results. Their high standards for customer service and clinical care led to the recent opening of their new lab draw location in Broadway Medical Plaza 2.

The convenient lab draw location makes it easy for patients visiting their physician’s office at Broadway Medical Plaza to have their labs drawn without driving somewhere else. The space is designed with patients’ comfort and dignity in mind, with private rooms for specialty testing.

“There’s a subgroup of tests that typically require patients to come into the hospital. These are often specialty tests or tests that must be processed very quickly after collection,” explains Drew Wilkinson, BJC laboratory services director.

The lab draw location was also designed to benefit physicians, both when referring patients and receiving results. Samples are drawn by BHC technicians and tested locally by BHC’s lab professionals.

“As we designed this new space, we were able to include a pneumatic tube system that allows us to literally send samples over Broadway,” Wilkinson says. By tube, the trip across the street takes three minutes — faster than most people could run — and allows physicians to potentially get their patients’ results before the patients have even left the building.

Patients can also have their labs drawn at BHC, which offers extended hours, including weekends, or at Nifong Medical Plaza in south Columbia. Future additional lab draw locations are being planned.

“Boone Hospital laboratory has a very highly skilled team working behind the scenes to deliver accurate, timely and high-quality lab results to our patients and providers,” Wilkinson says. “Opening this new location makes our services more convenient and accessible to our patients.”

EMS crew drives home reality of opioid crisis through reenactment

CH EMS crew members had everyone’s full attention at the April 1 CH Clergy Community Board meeting when they performed their reenactment of a 911 call overdose response.

The EMS crew’s impactful presentation is performed to various groups and at area schools in an effort to educate and inform the community on heroin and other opioid overdosing.

For more information, contact Brian Hokamp, CHEMS chief, brian.hokamp@bjc.org.

CH EMS crew members reenact a 911 call overdose response during the April 1 CH Clergy Community Board meeting. | Photo by Bret Berigan

Rick Stevens receives 2019 Stellar Performer in Health Care Award

Rick Stevens

CH president Rick Stevens will be honored April 26 with the Stellar Performer in Health Care Award at the St. Louis American Foundation’s 19th annual Salute to Excellence in Health Care Awards Luncheon at the Frontenac Hilton. His ability to inspire action in the community during his nearly three years as president is among the reasons he’s being honored.

CH Foundation golf outing is May 20

This year’s CH Foundation golf outing is May 20 at Norwood Hills Country Club. The outing includes brunch, 18 holes, beverages and snacks throughout play, and a happy hour and dinner with an auction, raffle and award ceremony for all participants. Registration and brunch begin at 9:30 a.m.; the shotgun start is at 11 a.m.

Proceeds support patient care, advancing medicine and technology, community benefit programs, community health access, staff education, and new hospital facilities and equipment.

Last year, the Foundation welcomed 240 golfers and raised more than $127,000. CH appreciates the members of the Christian Hospital family who support the foundation and this event.

For information on sponsorships or to register to play, visit www.christianhospital.org/golf. To volunteer, contact the CH Foundation, 314-653-5162 or chfoundation@bjc.org.

Heart Walk T-shirts available for purchase

Limited quantities of 2019 Heart Walk T-shirts are on sale now in the CH Gift Shop for $20. The 2019 Heart Walk shirt is approved to wear on Fridays until the Heart Walk on May 18; however, department managers will have the final approval, as T-shirts may not be acceptable in all departments.

CDC summer camp packets now available

The CH Child Development Center (CDC) summer camp registration packets are now available. The summer camp runs June 3-Aug. 9 and is open to children ages 5-12 years old. The program includes a variety of activities and field trips.

The CDC is state licensed and accredited and professionally staffed with ongoing programs for children ages 6 weeks to 6 years and includes a full-day kindergarten. Hours are 6 a.m.-6 p.m.

For more information, call the CDC, 314-653-5600.

Win an Apple Watch Series 3 watch!

Two watches — 38mm and 42mm — that were donated by the CH Auxiliary are being raffled, with all proceeds from ticket sales donated to the American Heart Association in support of this year’s Heart Walk.

Buy tickets now through May 10. Tickets are $1 each or six for $5 and are sold in the CH Gift Shop or through Heart Walk team captains.

CH EMS certified as Pediatric Ready by Missouri EMS for Children

CH EMS has been recognized by the Missouri Emergency Medical Services for Children program as being Pediatric Ready.

Specific equipment and training needs make pediatric patients a specialty population with the EMS field. CH EMS has recognized these needs and has taken steps to ensure the service is properly equipped to treat and transport pediatric patients.

To gain this recognition, CH EMS was required to confirm with Missouri EMS for Children that the agency carries all essential pediatric-specific equipment and has an appointed pediatric emergency care coordinator. This care coordinator acts as a pediatric champion within the agency and ensures all pediatric-specific transport needs remain a top priority within the service.

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

Rodney Balalark

Balalark is a ‘gem’

MHE’s March Employee of the Month, housekeeping group leader Rodney Balalark, is described as a “gem.”

Balalark’s job duties include making sure the MHE MOB and its offices are cleaned properly. He is responsible for keeping the floors cleaned and disposing of hazardous waste.

One of those who nominated Balalark has worked at Memorial for 25 years. She says she’s never seen a more hardworking, dedicated or helpful person than Balalark. Another nominator says he has outstanding leadership skills, is always willing to help out, is reliable and is a team player. “He is always willing to come in on his day off and help out. He has a positive attitude every time I talk to him.”

EVS manager Rick Griesbaum echoes those remarks, saying, “Rodney does a good job, is very helpful and works whenever needed.”

Griesbaum says Balalark is well liked and staff don’t hesitate to talk with him if there are any issues. “He is proactive and has a great attitude,” Griesbaum adds.

Balalark, who has worked at Memorial for 18 years, says the most rewarding part of his job is the teamwork experienced among the staff. His advice to new employees: “Treat everyone with respect and work together as a team. Keep your head above the clouds and keep reaching for the stars.”

Jackson is a service role model

Danielle Jackson

Danielle Jackson, MHE nursing administration staffing coordinator, was named April Employee of the Month for her commitment to service excellence and for being a role model for every one of Memorial’s Service Standards.

“She is a cheerleader for Memorial and believes we can be the best,” says MHE patient care manager Kathy Wagner, who nominated Jackson for the honor. “She always is positive and smiling.”

Wagner says Jackson is one of the most helpful people in the organization and is willing to take on new projects. “She goes above and beyond to assist others to lighten their workload. She is a valuable employee and a kind friend for all.”

MHE nursing director Cindy Wilson calls Jackson “exceptional and priceless.” Jackson assists the house supervisor, nurse managers and nurse directors. She also participates on the Employee Advisory Council and is a facilitator for the RBC refresher course.

“Danielle is a go-to person for information within the nursing department,” Wilson says. “She not only helps out nursing, but also other departments within the hospital. If she doesn’t know how, she uses her resources to find out.”

Jackson has been employed by Memorial for seven years and went to MHE in February 2016 to help outfit the nursing departments prior to the hospital’s opening in April 2016.

Her job responsibilities include a little bit of everything, she says. From assisting with project coordination, updating policies, adjusting schedules, maintaining and ensuring accuracy of timecards, facilitating medical equipment rental orders, submitting invoices and expense reports, to typing meeting agendas and minutes, Jackson does whatever needs to be done to help her team.

Memorial employee demonstrates caring for community

Michelle Wuller, a nurse in Memorial’s admission testing center, takes her caring beyond the walls of the hospital as a volunteer and member of the advisory committee for a local social service agency. For the past 25 years, Wuller has been involved with Caritas Family Solutions/St. John Bosco Children’s Center, located just up the street from MHB.

“When I first got started, they had a toy drive and we brought toys,” Wuller says. “When my children were young, I would have them pick out a toy to donate. Then they had an Adopt a Child Program, which became a family event on the day after Thanksgiving; we’d shop for our adopted child. I wanted my children to understand there are other children out there who need basic things.”

Wuller is passionate about the organization and the services it provides and says it is always in need of volunteers and donations to meet the everyday needs of children.In her spare time, Michelle Wuller volunteers and serves on the advisory committee for Caritas Family Solutions. | Photo by Andy Nicholson

MoBap welcomes new CNO, Patti Crimmins Reda

Patti Crimmins Reda

Patti Crimmins Reda will join MBMC as vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer April 1.

Crimmins Reda began her career with BJC in 1982 as a staff nurse at the former Barnes Hospital. Throughout her tenure, she has been an innovator, collaborator and champion of patient care. Highlights of her achievements include establishing the physician referral market, developing a patient education center and providing critical care instruction at Barnes College of Nursing at UMSL and Jewish College of Nursing, the forerunner of what is now Goldfarb School of Nursing.

In the 1990s through early 2000s, Crimmins Reda was influential in implementing the service line model at BJH, where she championed the cardiovascular, cardiothoracic and cardiopulmonary division at Washington University School of Medicine. She also worked to secure Magnet® designation for BJH and was named the director of patient care for critical care and emergency
trauma services.

As the current executive director of the Washington University and Barnes-Jewish Heart and Vascular Center and the TeleICU, Crimmins Reda co-leads the Critical Care Collaborative Consortium (C4) and has been integral in the implementation of the TeleICU platform, which now monitors more than 200 critical care beds throughout BJC.

As CNO at MBMC, Crimmins Reda will maintain her BJC TeleICU role.

Crimmins Reda says she is “a nurse focused on taking care of people, really good care of people,” and she looks forward to the challenges and opportunities in delivering excellent patient care at MBMC.

Bradbury ‘consistently goes above and beyond’

Laura Bradbury

Facilities coordinator Laura Bradbury was named the December 2018 Employee of the Month.

“In the past several months, Laura has been called upon to assist HR in the creation and changing out of new employee badges and planning the Veterans Day celebration,” says one of her nominators. “She took on both of these projects, in addition to her full workload, cheerfully, and without complaint. Laura was fast, efficient, and her results were excellent.

“I personally worked with Laura on the Veterans Day celebration and she took the lead, performing the lion’s share of the workload and making sure each task was completed. It went extremely well and drew many compliments, in large part thanks to Laura. She goes above and beyond and doesn’t hesitate to jump in whenever needed, to help other departments get the job done.”

Her nominators agreed that Bradbury consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty and does so with an incredible attitude, constantly living the iCREATE values.

Donaway is ‘the go-to person for all nursing staff’

Michelle Donaway

Michelle Donaway, a nurse in the Wound Healing Center, was named the January Employee of the Month.

“Michelle has been with BJC for more than 30 years. She joined the MoBap team in March 2015 when she became part of the founding team for the Wound Healing Center,” her nominator says. “Michelle has demonstrated the iCREATE values by exuding integrity, pushing excellence in herself and her team members, and holding herself and others accountable to do what’s best for our patients. She has memorized the 479 pages of the Wound Center policy manual and is the go-to person for all nursing staff when there’s a question.

“When I mentioned to Dr. Ludwig that I would like to nominate her for the Employee of the Month, he said, ‘Absolutely! She deserves it 100 percent.’”

Employee campaign funds buy temporal thermometers

Funds earmarked by the MBSH Ambassadors to purchase medical equipment and raised in the 2018 Fidelity Communication, BJC Home Care and MBSH employee campaign, allowed the MBSH Medical Office Building to purchase a temporal thermometer.

The temporal thermometer works by scanning the patient’s forehead where the temporal artery is located near the surface of the skin. The temporal artery receives blood directly from the heart, located in the core of the body, giving a quick and accurate reading.

“The process for getting temperature readings will be much easier and convenient for both our patients and staff,” says Mary Bjornstad, NP. “We are grateful for the funds allocated for equipment that will enhance our patient care.”

Nurse practitioner Mary Bjornstad demonstrates the new temporal thermometer on medical assistant Leah Frazier. | Photo by David Hartwick

MBSH Therapy & Wellness Center offers SilverSneakers fitness program

The MBSH Therapy & Wellness Center recently became an official partner of the SilverSneakers fitness program. Those whose Medicare health plan, Medicare supplement carrier or group retiree plan includes SilverSneakers as part of their benefit package have the opportunity to access several health benefits, including:

• fitness benefits including all basic amenities
• access to more than 13,000 fitness locations nationwide
• optional SilverSneakers classes led by certified instructors
• health education seminars and fun social events

Keeping active and exercising as a senior can result in a healthier mind and body, including a sharper memory, reduced risk of depression, stronger heart and lungs, increased metabolism, increased strength and joint stability, better endurance and balance, more energy, and better sleep.

For more information about the new SilverSneakers fitness program, call the MBSH Therapy & Wellness Center, 573-468-1340.

Missouri Baptist Sullivan Therapy & Wellness Center in Sullivan is now an official partner of the SilverSneakers fitness program.| Photo by Robin Butts

MBSH providers treated to Doctors Day breakfast

MBSH celebrated National Doctors Day March 29 with a breakfast buffet for the medical staff. The Barn & Grill from Bourbon, Missouri, prepared made-to-order omelets, Belgian waffles with toppings and fruit, bagels, yogurt, oatmeal, bacon, and juice.

Doctors and nurse practitioners took a short break before their busy day to relax and enjoy their breakfast in the company of other providers.

This year marks the 86th anniversary of the first observance of Doctors Day.

MBSH administrators greeted providers as they arrived, thanking them for their service to the hospital and community. “We appreciate your dedication and commitment to the health of the people we serve,” MSBH president Tony Schwarm told them. “We’re glad to celebrate this special day with you.”

Operations vice president Lisa Lochner, left, greets hospitalist Dr. Sahil Goyal, center, along with MBSH president Tony Schwarm. | Photos by David Hartwick

MBSH nurse practitioners, from left, Lisa Nelson, Sandra Hagene, Tiffany Voss and Sarah McKee celebrate Doctors Day.

Sullivan MRI earns ACR accreditation

MBSH has earned another three-year term of accreditation in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after a recent review by the American College of Radiology (ACR).

The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. Image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures and quality assurance programs are assessed. The findings are reported to the ACR Committee on Accreditation, which subsequently provides the practice with a comprehensive report that can be used for continuous practice improvement.

Advanced modality technologists Kim Pasley, RT (R)(MR), left, and Paula Barbagallo, RT (R)(MR), display MBSH’s most recent ACR accreditation. | Photo by David Hartwick

MBSH trains staff on safe patient handling

MBSH staff participated in safe patient handling training during the first week of April.

The training is required for all employees who encounter patient handling and movement activities, ensuring that all medical personnel involved in lifting and transferring patients are able to safely operate the equipment available to them.

Patient transfers, including helping patients in and out of bed, in and out of wheelchairs, or to and from restrooms, are activities that have the potential for injuries. The training demonstrates the correct use of the equipment to help employees avoid injuries to themselves and their patients.

“We’re glad that we have equipment readily available for assisting with patient transfers,” says Jennifer Zimmermann, RN, infection prevention and occupational health specialist. “Both our patients and employees benefit from the proper use of these tools.”

Displaying the “Return,” a new patient lift and mover, are, from left, Sara Licklider, wound care PCT; Colleen Schlueter, radiology advanced modality lead technologist; Kim Courtney, advanced modality technologist; and Paula Barbagallo, MRI technologist. | Photo by David Hartwick

MBSH recertified as a Level III STEMI Center

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services – Time Critical Diagnosis (TCD) system recently recertified MBSH as a Level III STEMI Center. The three-year certification follows a rigorous survey conducted by the state in January.

A STEMI (ST-elevation myocardial infarction) is the most serious type of heart attack, caused by a total blockage of a coronary artery. Because a STEMI can be deadly, a quick response is extremely important.

Level III centers like MBSH play an important role in providing access into the system and important patient care in non-metropolitan areas.

MBSH president Tony Schwarm congratulated TCD coordinator Vanessa Breen, RN, MSN, and her team for their dedication and hard work to accomplish this important designation.

“We’re very proud of our emergency department team,” Schwarm says, “and the level of care they’re able to offer to patients in our community who need this type of care.”

Some members of MBSH’s STEMI team include, from left, Megan Branson, RN, MSN, MBSH ED manager; Johna Carpenter, RN, BSN, charge nurse/team lead; Vanessa Breen, RN, MSN, clinical nurse leader/TCD coordinator; and Eric Ray, RN, emergency department. | Photo by David Hartwick

Danny Parmley is Star Service Team Member for March

Danny Parmley

Danny Parmley, facilities management, was selected as the ICARE Star Service Team Member for March. He has worked at PHC for 20 years.

“Danny is an example of someone who lives and breathes the PHC values,” his nominator says. “He remains calm, kind and friendly when interacting with everyone. He takes ownership of any task he is asked to do and does it well. He takes the time to listen and responds with kindness to any facility management issue in the department.”

Parmley says receiving the award is humbling. “I’m very grateful,” he says. “I just like serving people. To me, that’s just what it’s about.”

This is the second time Parmley has been honored with the award; the first was in 2007.

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

Dr. Winder to be honored posthumously at Foundation’s annual celebration

The fourth annual Parkland Health Center Foundation Celebration will take place 5:30-7 p.m., April 11, at Weingarten Vineyard. Tickets, which include dinner and soft drinks, may be purchased in advance for $25 per person at parklandhealthcenter.org/foundationcelebration. Tables of six or eight also are available.

Dr. Richard Winder

A highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the Joyce Buchheit Excellence in Health Care Award. The prestigious annual award was created in 2016 to recognize an individual who has contributed significantly to the advancement of health care in the region. This year’s award will be presented posthumously to Richard Winder, DO.

Dr. Winder was well-known in the region. When he moved to the Farmington area in 1976, he began a general practice. During his medical career in Farmington, he was instrumental in setting up the women’s clinic for the St. Francois County Health Department and establishing the St. Francois County Ambulance District.

He was also director of medical education for interns and residents at Mineral Area Regional Medical Center. Most recently, Dr. Winder served as medical director of the Mineral Area Regional Medical Center emergency department until his retirement in 2012.

Dr. Winder’s significant contributions to health care in the region spanned a 36-year career. Dr. Winder died in July 2018. His widow, Maxine Winder, will receive the award on his behalf.

Joyce Buchheit, the award’s namesake, is a member of the PHC Foundation board of directors and a past member of both the BJC board of directors and the PHC board of directors.

Past recipients of the award include Edward DuMontier, MD (2016), George Oliver, MD (2017), and Carol Coulter, RN (2018). All of the recipients are well known in the community and have served the medical needs of the community for a combined total of 165 years: Dr. Dumontier, 1989-2019, 30 years; Dr. Oliver, 1959-2019, 60 years; Carol Coulter, 1979-2018, 39 years; and Dr. Winder, 1976-2012, 36 years.

In addition to providing many philanthropic gifts to the hospital, the PHC Foundation gives an annual grant to Meals on Wheels for Special Diets, the Landrum-Hirsch Scholarship for a Mineral Area College nursing student, and the Steve Lipstein scholarship for a St. Francois County high school senior entering college and majoring in the medical field.

Providers at BJSPH, PWH enjoy Doctors Day festivities

With Doctors Day falling on a Saturday this year (March 30), BJC providers in St. Charles County enjoyed breakfast at BJSPH and lunch at PWH March 29.

Joseph Kohout, MD, emergency department, and Karen Mohan, BJSPH physician services supervisor, get in the spirit of Doctors Day at BJSPH March 29. | Photo by Kate Gase

From left, Saira Asadullah, MD, internal medicine; Aubra Houchin, DO, family medicine; and Edward Stein, DPM, podiatry, smile for the camera at BJSPH. | Photo by Karen Mohan

From left, Brian Grus, MD, internal medicine; Andrew Fresenburg, PWH finance director; and Kendall Itoku, MD, urology, enjoy lunch at PWH March 29. | Photo by Karen Mohan

Mark your calendar for 2019 Town Hall meetings

Dates have been announced for the 2019 Town Hall meetings. All of the meetings will start at noon.

• BJSPH Town Halls: May 2 and Sept. 17, MOB 1, room 108A
• PWH Town Halls: May 9 and Sept. 12, conference room B

Mary Beth Smegmer and Teresa Talken

Employees of the Month honored

Mary Beth Smegner, BJSPH surgical services recovery room staff nurse, and Teresa Talken, PWH patient care tech, recently received Employee of the Month honors.

Blood drives to be held at BJSPH, PWH April 25

Both BJSPH and PWH will hold blood drives from noon-4 p.m., April 25.

The BJSPH drive will take place in Medical Office Building 1, room 117. Call 800-REDCROSS (800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter: BJstpeters to schedule an appointment.

The PWH drive will take place in conference room B. Call 800-REDCROSS (800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter: ProgressWest to schedule an appointment.

Students can apply now for Auxiliary scholarships

Applications are now being accepted for the 2019-2020 BJSPH-PWH Auxiliary scholarships. This $2,000 continuing education scholarship is for students pursuing a degree in the health
science field.

To be eligible, students must be a St. Charles County resident and must have completed 20 hours of credit in a human-health-related field at an approved U.S. college or university. Students who have been awarded this scholarship in the past are ineligible.

For more information, call Carol Conner, 636-795-9960

BJC Day at the Ballpark ticket sales are May 7

Mark your calendar for BJC Day at the Ballpark, July 13, at Busch Stadium. The Cardinals face the Arizona Diamondbacks at 6:15 p.m.

Ticket sales at SLCH will take place May 7, from 6:30-9 a.m., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and 2:30-6:30 p.m., across from the SLCH Gift Shop.

Tickets are $10 each and will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis; sections and tickets are limited.

Stop by the ticket sales tables to complete the order form. Take the order form to the Gift Shop to pay for the tickets (with cash, credit card or employee badge; personal checks are not accepted). Return to the tables and receive your tickets, wristbands and itinerary for the day.

You can also sign up for a chance to represent SLCH as the “Biggest Cardinals Fan” during the opening game ceremony.

T-shirt sales rise, employee giving increases

Employee Spirit Day T-shirt sales and employee giving are soaring. It’s only April, and total employee participation is at 92 percent of goal (1,250), already exceeding 2018 participation. Total employee donations are up as well.

The Spirit Day T-shirts cost $26 each. Staff can wear their shirt and blue jeans to work on Employee Spirit Day, the first Friday of each month.

T-shirt proceeds and other employee donations go toward unrestricted gifts, meaning dollars can go toward any programs and services benefiting children.

“Thank you. Your donation helps, and no donation is too small,” says Julie McCausland-Richey, Foundation director. “Your Spirit Day T-shirt purchase is a wonderful act of giving that shows we’re united in doing what’s right for kids.”

Foundation team members staffing a donation station at the Children’s Specialty Care Center include, from left, Katie Nelson, Bob Rubenstein and Hailey Cooper. | Courtesy photo

Keep the kids safe this spring with Safety Stop promotion

It’s the time of year again to dust off your kids’ bikes and scooters and inspect their helmets.

Properly fitted helmets can reduce the risk of head injuries by 75 percent. And safety pads can protect kids’ tender elbows and knees.

SLCH Safety Stop can make sure your child is wearing the appropriate safety gear and that it fits properly. Safety Stop is also running a $5 helmet and $5 safety gear special until May 15.

To take advantage of the offer, call 314-454-KIDS (5437) or 800-678-KIDS, then press 3 to make an appointment at Safety Stop.

The child must be present at the appointment to purchase a helmet or safety gear. The appointment must take place by May 15.

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