This is just a drill …

AMH clinicians, from left, Jason Bowman, Lisa Harmon and Erik Igo, along with Andy Strohbeck of security, tend to a mock patient in the AMH emergency room July 28 as part of a disaster drill conducted throughout Madison County and involving 20 different agencies. The drill helped the agencies prepare for something they hope they never have to deal with in real life — in this case, a train/bus crash involving injured students and hazardous waste materials. | Photo by Dave Whaley

AMH adds Dr. John Pargulski as cardiologist

Dr. John Pargulski

John Pargulski, DO, has joined the AMH medical staff and St. Louis Cardiology Consultants.

Dr. Pargulski is board certified in cardiovascular disease, nuclear cardiology and echocardiography, with special interest in congestive heart failure, peripheral vascular disease, preventative cardiology and telemedicine.

Dr. Pargulski, who has family in the Jerseyville area, was most recently a cardiologist in Des Moines, Iowa. After earning his medical degree from Des Moines University Medical School in 1990, Dr. Pargulski completed an internal medicine residency at Saint Louis University and a cardiology fellowship at Ohio State University.

“I enjoy a team approach to cardiology care,” Dr. Pargulski says. “I will bring to the team a broad range of general cardiology skill sets, innovative new ideas and treatment approaches.”

Dr. Pargulski is now accepting new patients in the St. Louis Cardiology Consultants office in Medical Office Building A, Suite 102, on the AMH campus. Call 618-462-6612 to schedule an appointment.

Kristen Ryrie is new development manager at AMH

Kristen Ryrie

It’s a homecoming of sorts for Kristen Ryrie, the new manager of development and the Alton Memorial Health Services Foundation.

Ryrie grew up in Alton and is a 1999 Alton High School graduate. After 15 years of experience in media, public relations, event planning and fund development, she is excited to be the successor to Marlene Lewis, who retired in July.

“I met Marlene while I was at Riverbend Head Start and Family Services,” Ryrie says. “I had worked with her as part of the hospital’s United Way campaign, and our paths often crossed at community events. When I heard that she was retiring, I knew whomever replaced her would have big shoes to fill.”

Ryrie was the director of public relations and development at Head Start for nearly three years, where she planned events such as the annual Circle of Care dinner. In her final year, net revenue from the event increased by 78 percent, and it was the best attended event in the agency’s history.

“It’s the same thing with Duck Pluckers,” Ryrie says about the signature event each year for the AMHSF. “These are events that members of this community have on their calendar year after year and are crucial to supporting vital missions in our area. I am humbled to be a part of an organization that is passionate about delivering health care to people in this community.”

Ryrie earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Missouri in 2003. She worked at WDAF-TV in Kansas City after graduation and also spent five years as web content producer for KSDK-Channel 5 in St. Louis before her time at Head Start. Ryrie also served as manager of media and public relations at Centene Corp., a health insurance company in St. Louis that ranks 61st on the Fortune 500 list.

“That was my introduction to the health care world,” she says. “I’m looking forward to contributing to the success of Alton Memorial, which has been such a big part of this community for more than 80 years.”

Ryrie can be reached at kristen.ryrie@bjc.org or 618-463-7701.

Jeremy Clements earns AMH July employee honor

Jeremy Clements

Jeremy Clements, medical imaging, is AMH’s Employee of the Month for July. Clements was honored July 20 by medical imaging manager Stacey Ballard and AMH president Dave Braasch.

No fewer than seven of his co-workers nominated Clements for the honor, with many of them referring to his expertise in Epic. Their comments include: “Jeremy was given the task of our Epic super user, attended about 10 classes or more and dove in head-first to help each of us in the front desk position learn how Epic worked. Once we went live with Epic, Jeremy worked 13-plus-hour days for a minimum of two weeks, never once complaining about this, always being pulled to answer questions from all areas in the department to help avoid major issues, without sacrificing patient care. I started calling him ‘Mr. Epic’ because he is so knowledgeable. He never seems put out to help and helps with a smile.”

Annual fund-raiser on tap for Sept. 8

The AMH White Cross Auxiliary will hold its annual “Girls on Grapes, Boys on Brew” fund-raiser from noon-3 p.m., Sept. 8, at the Loading Dock, 400 Front St. in Grafton, Illinois.

Guests will enjoy views of the Mississippi River while sampling foods and beverages from more than 25 area restaurants and wineries. A few new vendors this year include Bakers and Hale, Brown Bag Bistro, Blue Stem Vodka, DeCaro’s, and Stumpy’s Spirits.

The Auxiliary supports various hospital projects, including education, hospital equipment and help for people who can’t afford their prescriptions. Funds from this year’s event will go toward the purchase of a car transfer simulator for joint patients.

Tickets for the event are $30 in advance and are available at https://gogbob.brownpapertickets.com. You must be 21 to attend the event. Tickets sold in advance can be picked up at 11 a.m. the day of the event, with entrance at noon.

For more information, call 618-463-7872.

AMH honors ‘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 awards went to:

• Angela Colley, ambulatory surgery
• Bobby Elliott, valet
• Natalie Wiegmann, MCU
• Chris Stahl, MCU
• Kevin Estes, plant operations
• Judy Sibert, IMU
• Sonja Slavuljica, cardiology
• Tal Pollak, MD, hospitalist
• Kaylee Fritts, MCU
• Cortez Wimberley, food and nutrition services
• Sarah Lewis, central supply
• Terry Poston, case management
• Laura Lair, emergency department
• Tonya Henry, MCU
• Renee Sasser, MCU

Mark Ivancic

Mark Ivancic retires after 38 years

BJH perioperative services business manager Mark Ivancic, RN, MBA, has retired after 38 years with BJC.

Ivancic started his career in 1980 as a staff nurse in the OR at the former Jewish Hospital of St. Louis, holding positions over the years including staff nurse, clinical manager, director, analyst, contractor, provider relations, manager and business manager in locations across BJC, including Jewish Hospital, Barnes-Jewish St. Peters and Barnes-Jewish West County hospitals, BJC shared services, and BJH.

“I will miss working with a diverse group of people on leading-edge projects,” Ivancic said.

During retirement, Ivancic plans to spend more time with his wife, three sons, two daughters-in-law and two grandsons. In addition, he plans to work with non-profits, get more involved in the community, bicycle and expand his music involvement.

A retirement celebration was held July 2 at Queeny Tower. His last day at BJH was July 6.

As a final comment to everyone, Ivancic said, “Rock on!”

ED team says ‘Aloha’ to staff spirit

The emergency department recently had a staff spirit party in the form of a luau, July 27. The team celebrated with snow cones. | Photo by Mary Williams

Throwing heart disease a wicked curve ball ...

O’Fallon native Bob Malon is one of the 85.6 million Americans living with heart disease. A little over a year ago, he needed emergency open-heart surgery to repair a 90 percent blockage in his heart.

Thanks to the team at BJC — including Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital, Missouri Baptist Medical Center and BJC Medical Group — he took the field at a recent Frontier League All Star game and threw out the first pitch with his family watching.

O’Fallon native Bob Malon throws out the first pitch at a recent Frontier League All Star game a year after having open-heart surgery. | Photo courtesy of the River City Rascals

Shout out to Citibank for wagons full of toys

Citibank employees donated two wagons full of toys and games to PWH to share with pediatric patients. | Photo by Kerrie Livers

Jeanne Buchholz and Mariette Torluemke win scholarships

Family and friends gathered to congratulate PWH ED nurses Mariette Torluemke and Jeanne Buchholz on their BJC Stiften Scholarships. The scholarships award $5,000 toward tuition, books and lab fees for employees pursuing nursing degrees. | Photo by Scott Beck

Save the dates — Chris Watts to hold fall town hall meetings

Make plans now to join BJSPH/PWH president Chris Watts as he gives an update on what’s going on at BJSPH and PWH, and across BJC, at town hall meetings this fall.

Following are the dates for your calendar:

• BJSPH
  • Sept. 19, 7:45 p.m.
  • Sept. 26, 11:45 a.m.
  • Oct. 1, 7:45 a.m.
  • All meetings at BJSPH will take place in Conference Room A.
• PWH
  • Sept. 24, 7:45 a.m.
  • Oct. 3, 11:45 a.m.
  • Oct. 4, 7:45 p.m.
  • All meetings at PWH will take place in Conference Room B.

Watch for more information in upcoming Scoops.

Nominate a BJWCH leader

Leaders inspire and motivate employees to be the best they can be. Do you know a great leader who deserves to be recognized for exemplifying the ICARE values and the BJC leadership characteristics, which include learning ability, systems thinker, future focused, results oriented, effective communicator and leadership presence? Take a moment to nominate a BJWCH supervisor or manager for 2018 Leader of the Year.

The nomination form is available on BJWCHnet or in the cafeteria. Forms can be dropped in the box in the cafeteria or dropped off with or emailed to Stephanie Cole. Forms are due by 5 p.m., Aug. 29.

Mark your calendar for Employee Health 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.

Baker is awarded outstanding leadership award

BJC Behavioral Health held its annual service awards dinner July 18 at the Norman K. Probstein Clubhouse in Forest Park. More than 120 years-of-service honorees, leaders and guests enjoyed the beautiful venue, jazz music and buffet dinner. At the end of the evening, the 2018 outstanding leadership award was presented to Marcus Baker, RPh, pharmacy manager.

Baker — whose favorite phrase is, “Let’s save lives, people!” — knows many clients by name.

Clients often ask to speak directly to him because he always shows an interest in their well-being and takes time to talk to them about whatever’s on their mind — although his favorite topic is anything about sports.

Baker finds people’s strengths and interests and allows his team to use them to improve workflow and daily operations. He keeps everyone on his team up to date on current news or changes within BJC Behavioral Health or BJC HealthCare and is fully supportive of his team members taking classes to further business skills, career advancement and personal growth.

Baker truly upholds the ICARE values and BJC Behavioral Health’s mission.

Marcus Baker, center, with Dr. Kelly Johnson, medical director, and Barbi Karl, BJC Behavioral Health vice president, was awarded the 2018 outstanding leadership award. | Photo by Marilynn Hart

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.”

Moore named vice president of BJC capital and program planning

Christy Moore

Christy Moore has been named vice president of BJC capital and program planning. She was previously BJC strategic planning director.

As capital and program planning vice president, Moore will be responsible for creating and leading a team that identifies and analyzes strategic choices, both on a system-wide level and in partnership with individual hospitals and service organizations.

Her role includes leading strategic planning consultation, business and capital planning, market intelligence and competitor analysis, and capital budget management. In addition, she will serve as a senior advisor to BJC senior leadership and consult on health care industry trends.

Moore will report to Chris Watts, president of Barnes-Jewish St. Peters and Progress West hospitals.

“Christy is a collaborative partner who has developed excellent relationships with leaders and teams all across BJC HealthCare,” says Watts.

Moore joined BJC as a member of the strategic planning team in 2010. In that role, she supported strategic analysis and project management and served as the strategic project management point of contact for BJC hospitals and Washington University School of Medicine. In addition, she served as planning lead for system-level initiatives, including stroke planning efforts.

Moore earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Saint Louis University, a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Missouri-St. Louis and a master’s degree in health administration from Saint Louis University School of Public Health.

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. Kate Ponzillo

BJC Medical Group offering palliative care services at MBMC

BJC Medical Group now offers inpatient and outpatient palliative care services at
Missouri Baptist Medical Center. Kate Ponzillo, MD, started in July as the medical director of palliative care services. She is board-certified in internal medicine, critical care medicine, hospice and palliative care, and has more than 20 years of experience.

Dr. Ponzillo received her medical degree from the University of Missouri – Kansas City. She then completed a residency in internal medicine at the University of Connecticut Medical Center and a fellowship in critical care medicine at Saint Louis University and St. John’s Mercy in St. Louis.

She has practiced as an intensivist physician, associate director of a local intensive care unit, and most recently was the medical director of an inpatient palliative care service.

“Quality of care from my perspective means honoring each patient by aligning the health care team’s goals with the patient to achieve the best quality of life possible during chronic or serious illness,” Dr. Ponzillo says.

Palliative care is specialized medical care for people with serious illness, and the goal is to relieve symptoms and stress for the patient while improving quality of life. Dr. Ponzillo and her team offer the following services to patients and families: symptom management in chronic illness (shortness of breath, anxiety, nausea and pain), family education and communication support, advanced care planning, and planning for goals of care.

Patients often need a physician referral or recommendation to receive palliative care services, but insurance typically covers these services.

Katharine Ponzillo, MD, a member of BJC Medical Group, is on staff at Missouri Baptist Medical Center. She will have several locations in St. Louis. Learn more about her at bjcmedicalgroup.org or by calling 314-305-1447.

Candace Counts

BJC Medical Group welcomes new nurse practitioner

Candace Counts, family nurse practitioner, has joined BJC Medical Group and will be offering primary care services at two St. Louis locations.

Counts received her bachelor of science in nursing degree from Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College and earned her master of science in nursing degree at Maryville University. She has worked as a nurse and nurse practitioner since 2011.

“The most rewarding part of practicing medicine is the ability to empower patients with knowledge about their health and help them live the best they can,” she says.

Counts will provide general primary care for adults, including sick (acute) visits, chronic disease management, physicals, weight management and preventive medicine.

Candace Counts, FNP-C, will practice at 8888 Ladue Road, Suite 210, St. Louis, and on the campus of Missouri Baptist Medical Center, 3009 N. Ballas Road, Building C, Suite 387, St. Louis. Learn more about her BJC Medical Group practice by calling 314-862-5044 or visiting bjcmedicalgroup.org.

Dr. Andrew Fisher

New ob/gyn joins BJC Medical Group

Andrew Fisher, MD, MBE, who specializes in obstetrics and gynecology, has joined BJC Medical Group and practices on the campus of Progress West Hospital and the campus of Missouri Baptist Medical Center. He joins Michael Chen, MD, and nurse practitioner Susan Mitchell-Derenski.

Dr. Fisher received his medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 2014. He completed his residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Barnes-Jewish Hospital. In these programs, he gained experience practicing evidence-based methods, while keeping an open mind to alternative and complementary therapies that can be performed safely and have significant benefits for patients.

“I chose to specialize in obstetrics and gynecology because it offers the rare and unique opportunity to take care of women through all stages of life, from their first contraceptive choices, delivering their first baby, to managing the symptoms of menopause. The medical and surgical ways in which we treat women are constantly evolving and it’s always exciting to practice in the frontier of medicine,” Dr. Fisher says. “Nothing is more rewarding than being there for my patients through every exciting and difficult phase of their lives.”

In his practice, Dr. Fisher provides comprehensive ob/gyn services, including birth control management, pregnancy care, medical and surgical management of abnormal uterine bleeding (such as fibroids, PCOS) and postmenopausal bleeding, miscarriage care, and incontinence treatment.

He also has a special interest in providing care for particular women’s issues, such as transgender medicine, infertility and substance use/opioid dependence in pregnancy.

Andrew Fisher, MD, MBE, is a member of BJC Medical Group and is on staff at Progress West Hospital and Missouri Baptist Medical Center. His practice can be reached at 636-344-3105. The practice at PWH is at 20 Progress Point Parkway, Suite 100, O’Fallon, Missouri. The practice at MBMC is at 3009 N. Ballas Road, Building C, Suite 354, St. Louis. Learn more about him at bjcmedicalgroup.org.

Amanda Michaels

BJC Medical Group welcomes new primary care nurse practitioners in Alton

For improved patient access, BJC Medical Group welcomes two nurse practitioners at Alton Internal Medicine. Amanda Michaels, FNP, and Jessica Riney, AGPCNP, joined the practice in July.

Michaels earned her bachelor of science in nursing and master of science in nursing degrees at Saint Louis University. She has more than 10 years of experience as a nurse at BJC Medical Group practices and Christian Hospital.

“I think our practice is unique because of the genuine compassion and empathy that we bring to each and every patient,” she says.

Jessica Riney

Riney earned her bachelor of science in nursing degree at Goldfarb School of Nursing and completed her master of science in adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner (AGPCNP) at Maryville University. She has 12 years of experience in emergency care, pediatric critical care, oncology and internal medicine.

“My primary goal as a provider is to offer each person medical care supported by education, calmness and understanding through every situation they may encounter,” she says.

Both providers will offer primary care services to established patients at the practice.

Both Amanda Michaels, FNP, and Jessica Riney, AGPCNP, are members of BJC Medical Group at Alton Internal Medicine, 2 Memorial Drive, Medical Office Building A, Suite 220, Alton, Illinois. The practice can be reached at 618-474-1723. Learn more at 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.

Quarterly High Performers honored at social

The service excellence rewards and recognition team hosted the quarterly CH High Performers Social July 10.

Each quarter, the rewards and recognition team recognizes different departments. Each department selects one high performing employee who is invited to the reception in their honor.

Rick Stevens, CH president, and members of the executive team greeted each honoree at the July 10 reception, which included a ceremony recognizing the employees and why they were chosen.

Congratulations to the CH High Performers for the second quarter of 2018:

• Danielle Redmon, nursing quality
• Deidra Farmer, retail pharmacy
• Laura Rodriguez, cat scan/MRI/nuclear medicine
• Dan Frey, RNFA, surgical assistant
• Jackie Harris, pharmacy/cancer center research
• Doug Jones, patient support services
• Amie Raymond, laboratory-cardiac wellness center
• Neal Riedisser, wound care
• Livy O’Neill, lab-chemistry
• Joshua Whitecotton, CH emergency room
• Nicole Curry, nursing resources
• Chris Gude, volunteer
• Phillip Wade, environmental services

The service excellence rewards and recognition team hosted the quarterly CH High Performers Social July 10. | Photo by Bret Berigan

CH welcomes new pharmacy residents

Post-graduate, year-one pharmacy practice residents Sarah Tortora and Cathy Grierson recently began their yearlong training at CH.

Tortora graduated from the University of Iowa with her doctorate of pharmacy degree, and Grierson earned her doctorate of pharmacy degree from The Ohio State University.

These licensed pharmacists will complete five-week rotations throughout the hospital this year in internal medicine, integrated care, comprehensive pharmacy services, administration, information technology, antibiotic stewardship, critical care, outpatient oncology and emergency medicine.

Post-graduate, year-one pharmacy practice residents Sarah Tortora, left, and Cathy Grierson recently began their yearlong training at CH. | Photo by Bret Berigan

HEALTH FAIR 2018 promotes wellness in the community

Area residents had an opportunity to get free health screenings and other vital information at HEALTH FAIR 2018, which took place July 21 at the Ferguson Community Empowerment Center.

HEALTH FAIR 2018 also included the Siteman mammography van; dental screenings provided by Gateway to Oral Health Foundation; numerous educational booths; and a kids’ fun area and free healthy snacks. St. Louis Children’s Hospital helped children make first aid kits and provided information on asthma care and resources.

CH and the Salvation Army, partners in the Pathway to Health program, hosted HEALTH FAIR 2018, in partnership with the City of Ferguson, Southeast Ferguson Community Association and Alpha Kapa Alpha Sorority Inc.-Omicron Theta Omega Chapter. Funding for the project was provided by Missouri Foundation for Health.

The Pathway to Health initiative addresses the lack of access to affordable care, the need for increased health knowledge, and chronic condition management for African Americans and others, while also working to eliminate socio-economic barriers.

Necole Powell

Necole Powell is new executive director

Necole Powell was welcomed in July as the new executive director of the Christian Hospital Foundation.

Powell has more than 20 years of fund-raising experience, most recently with the Southern Illinois University Foundation in Springfield, Illinois, where she was charged with development for the School of Medicine, Healthcare and Simmons Cancer Institute since 2014. Prior to that, she was with the St. Louis College of Pharmacy for eight years and with Webster University for nine years. She has also worked with the Nine Network of Public Media-St. Louis and Maritz.

Farmers market at CH every Friday

The farmers market featuring Friedel Family Farms of Batchtown, Illinois, is on the CH campus from 7 a.m.-2 p.m. (or sellout) every Friday (weather permitting) through the fresh produce season. The market is set up outside of the Surgery Center.

A variety of fresh fruits and vegetables are available every week. Flyers are posted and will be updated throughout the season.

The on-site farmers market is a benefit to help employees conveniently purchase healthful food items.

Karla Templeton

Karla Templeton retiring after 40 years of service

Karla Templeton, RN, retired July 31 after 40 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

Register for 11th annual Employee Fun Run/Walk

The 11th annual Employee Fun Run/Walk will be held at 8 a.m., Sept. 8.

The free event is open to all Memorial Hospital Belleville, Memorial Hospital East, Memorial Care Center, and BJC Medical Group of Illinois (formerly Memorial Medical Group) employees, auxilians, medical staff members, and their families.

All walkers/runners in attendance will receive a free T-shirt.

For more information or for a registration form, call human resources, 618-257-5232.

To volunteer for the event, contact Micki Classen, 618-398-2778 or Marilyn.Classen@bjc.org.

Save the date! Family Health & Safety Fair to follow Employee Fun Run/Walk

This year’s Family Health & Safety Fair will be held immediately following the Employee Fun Run/Walk Sept. 8.

This free event is an opportunity for children of all ages to learn health and safety tips in a fun and interactive way. Stay tuned for more information.

ANCC Medical-Surgical Certification Review Course is Sept. 24-25

The ANCC Medical-Surgical Certification Review Course will be Sept. 24-25 in the Memorial Hospital Auditorium.

With speaker M. Frances Keen, DNSc, RN-BC, this two-day class offers a comprehensive review of medical-surgical nursing. It will explore principles necessary for practice, comprehensive assessment techniques and cutting-edge therapeutics.

Content is designed for the experienced medical-surgical nurse; however, nurses new to medical-surgical nursing will find the teaching methods easy to understand.

Strategies for successful completion of the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) medical-surgical certification exam will be explored, along with a review of major topics and content covered in the exam.

A maximum of 16 hours may be earned by those who complete this program. Register online through the ANCC, nursingworld.org/certification. The registration deadline is Sept. 3. Space is limited.

Call for abstracts for 12th Annual Research and Quality Symposium

Memorial Regional Health Services’ 12th Annual Research and Quality Symposium — “The Power of Three: Strength, Knowledge, Resiliency” — will take place from 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Nov. 16, at the Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows.

Abstracts are now being accepted for poster presentations related to evidence-based practice, quality improvement projects or research projects. Abstracts submitted can be for either completed or in-progress projects.

Abstracts of 250 words or less must be submitted to diane.ashmann@bjc.org by Sept. 28. Notification of selection will be via email by Oct. 5.

Criteria for evidenced-based project or quality improvement project abstract — Consider using an evidence-based practice model (for example, the Iowa Model of Evidence-Based Practice) in your submission. Include the project triggers, importance of the project to the organization and to team members, and relevant literature review. Define the project structure, process and outcome data. The outcomes should be clinically focused and describe how the evidence-based practice applies to nursing practice.

Criteria for research study abstract — Include the following in your abstract submission: significance of problem, research purpose, study framework, study design, research findings/outcomes, and general implications to practice, education or theory.

The first author of each poster abstract is responsible for the proper assembly, mounting and presentation of his/her poster. Submitters should be available to discuss the poster and answer questions during the assigned session times. If the submitter is unable to participate in the poster session, a substitute must be ready to discuss the poster and answer any questions. Project posters may be formatted on a printed poster no larger than 36-by-72 inches.

Email your abstract to diane.ashmann@bjc.org or call Diane Ashmann, DNP, RN-BC, 618-767-2263, for more information.

MHB outpatient respiratory care receives PRC Top Performer Award

Professional Research Consultants (PRC) awarded outpatient respiratory care services at Memorial the “Top Performer Award” for Overall Quality of Care for the first time in the department’s history. The Top Performer Award recognizes health care outpatient services that score at or above the 100th percentile compared to PRC’s national client database for the prior calendar year.

For outpatient service lines and outpatient clinics, this designation is based on the percentage of patients who rate the setting as “Excellent” for the Overall Quality of Care.

Services offered in outpatient respiratory care include testing for outpatient blood gases, six-minute walk test – stress O2, and pulmonary function testing.

Congratulations to department members Sue Holcomb, Teri Wieduwilt, Robyn Klaver, Chris Arterburn, Niki Bell, Rachel Durley, Danyelle Faulkner, Danielle Orzechowski, Kelly Shute, Ciara Weiss, Lynn Bechtoldt, Sheila Henseler and Julie McCallister.

Memorial outpatient respiratory care team members celebrate their PRC Top Performer Award. They include, from left, front row, Niki Bell, Robyn Klaver, Teri Wieduwilt, Sue Holcomb and Danyelle Faulkner; and back row, Kelly Shute, Chris Arterburn, Danielle Orzechowski and Lynn Bechtoldt. | Photo by Andy Nicholson

Stacy Burns

Stacy Burns earns July honors

Stacy Burns, MHB cardiovascular sonographer, has been named Employee of the Month for July.

“Stacy always goes the extra mile for her patients,” says one colleague. “She enjoys teaching and learning new things and is always willing to adjust her schedule to meet the needs of the department.”

Burns, who’s worked at Memorial for two years, performs ultrasound exams and specializes in cardiac imaging.

“She is extremely hard working, has a wonderful rapport with physicians, and is a great asset with training and educating new employees in our department. She’s an absolute pleasure to work with,” another colleague says.

Burns says the most rewarding part of her job is working with patients, and her advice to new employees is, “Don’t forget to smile!”

Dr. Kouchoukos named to Shoenberg Endowed Chair

Nicholas Kouchoukos, MD, MBMC attending cardiothoracic surgeon, was awarded the John M. Shoenberg Emeritus Chair in Cardiothoracic Surgery June 20 by The Foundation for Barnes-Jewish Hospital. This honorary chair is named after John M. Shoenberg, who served as The Jewish Hospital of St. Louis president from 1958-1963.

The chair was awarded to recognize Dr. Kouchoukos’s distinguished career, mentorship and accomplishments and is public recognition for long-standing excellence and innovation. It is funded by one of St Louis’s most philanthropic families, the Shoenbergs. 

The Nicholas T. Kouchoukos, MD, Endowed Research Fellowship at Barnes-Jewish Hospital was also announced at the ceremony. The fellowship supports the ability to attract and retain future leaders in science and is critical to the pipeline of new discoveries and the future of cardiothoracic surgery. A gift to The Foundation for Barnes-Jewish Hospital by Dr. and Mrs. Kouchoukos has seeded this new endowed research fellowship. Their gift serves as an important catalyst to secure additional resources dedicated to educating the next generation of pioneers and leaders in cardiothoracic surgery.

In 2016, Dr. Kouchoukos was awarded the Endowed Chair in Cardiovascular Surgery from the Missouri Baptist Healthcare Foundation.

Dr. Kouchoukos has published more than 450 peer-reviewed articles, co-authored the third and fourth editions of the textbook “Cardiac Surgery” and performed more than 13,000 open heart and major aortic surgeries.

Dr. Kouchoukos remains an attending surgeon at the MBMC Heart Center with colleagues Michael Murphy, MD; Michael Mauney, MD; James Scharff, MD; and Joshua Baker, MD.

Dr. and Mrs. Nicholas Kouchoukos

Derek Hopkins is May Employee of the Month

Derek Hopkins

Derek Hopkins, a patient care tech in the ACC, was honored as the May Employee of the Month.

Here’s what his nominators had to say about him: “Derek is the kind of tech everyone wants to work with and every patient wants to have. I am always excited to work alongside him.”

“Derek is dedicated, hard-working and always willing to help where he can. His positive personality makes the staff, patients and their families feel at ease, well taken care of and supported. He treats everyone with respect and kindness. Derek is always willing to lend a hand and exemplifies teamwork. He is committed to giving excellent care, and it shows!”

“There’s a plethora of ways to go into detail about how Derek defines the iCREATE values, so I’ll summarize by saying that few people deserve this recognition more than Derek Hopkins does.”

Mellissa Glasstetter

Glasstetter is May Great Catch winner

Mellissa Glasstetter won the May Great Catch Award for double checking a patient’s medication.

Lisa Cahill

Cahill is most recent DAISY winner

Lisa Cahill, a nurse in the ICU, won the most recent DAISY Award. Cahill was nominated both by a patient and her colleagues.

Here’s what the patient had to say: “Although I can tell you many stories about the help and care Lisa has provided, there is one outstanding example. On my birthday, Lisa decorated my whole room with streamers, balloons and a great big birthday card that all of the nurses signed. I had a better birthday at the hospital than I would have had at home! Lisa goes way above her job duties with her caring and support. She is the best, the cream of the crop.”

This is what her colleagues had to say: “Lisa provided extraordinary care and compassion to this patient during the patient’s stay. She defined true care and compassion. This example is only one of many. Lisa is truly a gift to our ICU team. She models the iCREATE values in an outstanding way that provides examples for our newer nurses to emulate.”

Jake Shackelford

Shackelford is June Employee of the Month

Pharmacy tech Jake Shackelford earned June Employee of the Month honors.

Here’s what his nominators had to say about him: “Jake is the pharmacy tech in our Cancer Center. He is often seen sitting with patients to discuss their medications. Jake takes extra steps to help patients get their medications cheaper by working with their insurance or getting rebates or coupons for them.

“He gets to know our patients on a personal level and they all love and appreciate him. He always has a smile on his face and greets everyone. He truly exemplifies the iCREATE values!”

Jada Hancock

Jada Hancock wins $250 and an Apple Watch

Jada Hancock participated in the BJC JobShakers Employee Referral program and won two prizes — $250 and an Apple Watch.

May Nursing Quality Award Winner: MBMC emergency department

The MBMC emergency department won the May Nursing Quality Award for exceptional work in improving care for patients experiencing a stroke. In early 2017, the department door-to-needle (DTN) time was 90 minutes. Through a rapid improvement event, the team discovered a more efficient process and lowered DTN times. The ED’s average DTN time is now 46 minutes, well below the 60-minute goal. | Courtesy photo

MoBap recognized by EMS for clinical save

Recently, MBMC was recognized for making an outstanding clinical save (restarting a heart in arrest and keeping it beating until the patient is admitted to a hospital). The ceremony recognized everyone involved in the save: dispatcher, EMS, police, fire and the hospital. | Courtesy photo

MBSH and BJC Medical Group welcome new pediatrician

Dr. Tammi Cooks

MBSH and BJC Medical Group have announced the addition of pediatrician Tammi Cooks, MD, to MBSH’s medical staff. Dr. Cooks will offer services full-time at the Cuba Clinic location.

Dr. Cooks received her premedical and medical training at Washington University in St. Louis.

She earned her medical degree in May 2015. While at Washington University School of Medicine, she served as a student researcher in the obstetrics and gynecology and surgery specialties. She completed her residency in pediatrics at Children’s Hospital of Michigan in Detroit.

During this time, she also held various leadership positions, including Medical Student Government representative and Arts Commission coordinator. She was also an active volunteer with various community service organizations. Prior to attending medical school, she gained valuable experience as a seventh-grade science teacher in the St. Louis Public School district as a corps member with Teach for America.

She joins Ravi Saripalli, MD, a pediatrician at the Sullivan Clinic. “I am extremely happy to have Dr. Cooks join our team of providers,” Dr. Saripalli says. “The additional coverage for pediatric patients will be a tremendous help in our service area.”

Tammi Cooks, MD, is a member of BJC Medical Group and is on staff at MBSH. She practices at Cuba Clinic, 102 Ozark Drive, Cuba. She is accepting new patients. Call 573-885-6600 to make an appointment. To learn more about Dr. Cooks, visit bjcmedicalgroup.org.

MBSH Ambassadors fund new equipment for therapy and wellness

The MBSH Ambassadors recently purchased a third bariatric hi-lo table for MBSH therapy and wellness.

This equipment will make treatments safer and easier for both patient and therapist. The table can be used for many types of treatment but will primarily be used by the certified lymphedema therapists (CLTs) to treat patients with lymphedema and similar diagnoses.

The table allows for safe and easy transfers from wheelchairs and for persons of all shapes and sizes. The Performa Bariatric Plus Hi-Lo Table holds 800 pounds and adjusts to a height between 19 inches and 38 inches. Two of the three mat panels can be angled for the comfort of the patient and the convenience of the therapist.

“It’s such a blessing to have this bariatric table,” says Cody Ellis, OTR/L, CLT. “Many individuals seen at our facility are dealing with joint pain and obesity on top of their chronic swelling issues. This table isn’t the typical equipment seen at most facilities and provides our facility with a unique and comfortable way to grant our patients an opportunity to get their lives back in a safe and efficient way.”

Therapy and wellness manager Robin Butts also is grateful for the donation. “Receiving this electric hi-lo table via the generous donation of the Ambassadors allows us to provide comfortable treatment for our bariatric patients and gives them the confidence they need and deserve when having therapy,” Butts says. “It also promotes safe body mechanics for our therapists.

“A table like this makes a big difference in the therapy experience for our patients and our clinicians,” Butts adds. “Thanks to the MBSH Ambassadors for helping us become the provider of choice in the communities we serve.”

For more information about the treatments and services offered at MBSH therapy and wellness, call 573-468-1340.

MBSH occupational and certified lymphedema therapists Cody Ellis and Jenica Bartolotta use the new bariatric table purchased by the MBSH Ambassadors. | Photo by Hannah Betke

Dr. Melissa Rooney

Dr. Melissa Rooney joins Parkland medical staff

Melissa Rooney, MD has joined the PHC medical staff. Dr. Rooney is board certified in internal medicine, hematology and oncology and will see patients at Parkland Cancer Center in Bonne Terre, Missouri.

Dr. Rooney earned her medical degree from Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine. Her post-graduate training included a residency in internal medicine at Washington University School of Medicine and a fellowship in hematology/oncology at WUSM. She has served as an instructor of medicine at WUSM.

Dr. Rooney has received numerous honors and awards and is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology. She joins four other hematology/oncology specialists who treat patients at Parkland Cancer Center.

“Dr. Rooney is a welcome addition as we further expand our service offerings for the local community,” says Tom Karl, PHC president. “We welcome her to our medical staff and specifically to our cancer center in Bonne Terre.”

John Spurgin, RN, Parkland Cancer Center manager, adds, “We’re very pleased that Dr. Rooney has joined us. With her on board, we have a total of five oncologists seeing patients. This enables us to increase our clinic schedule from four to five days per week.”

Throwing heart disease a wicked curve ball ...

O’Fallon native Bob Malon is one of the 85.6 million Americans living with heart disease. A little over a year ago, he needed emergency open-heart surgery to repair a 90 percent blockage in his heart.

Thanks to the team at BJC — including Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital, Missouri Baptist Medical Center and BJC Medical Group — he took the field at a recent Frontier League All Star game and threw out the first pitch with his family watching.

O’Fallon native Bob Malon throws out the first pitch at a recent Frontier League All Star game a year after having open-heart surgery. | Photo courtesy of the River City Rascals

Shout out to Citibank for wagons full of toys

Citibank employees donated two wagons full of toys and games to PWH to share with pediatric patients. | Photo by Kerrie Livers

Jeanne Buchholz and Mariette Torluemke win scholarships

Family and friends gathered to congratulate PWH ED nurses Mariette Torluemke and Jeanne Buchholz on their BJC Stiften Scholarships. The scholarships award $5,000 toward tuition, books and lab fees for employees pursuing nursing degrees. | Photo by Scott Beck

Save the dates — Chris Watts to hold fall town hall meetings

Make plans now to join BJSPH/PWH president Chris Watts as he gives an update on what’s going on at BJSPH and PWH, and across BJC, at town hall meetings this fall.

Following are the dates for your calendar:

• BJSPH
  • Sept. 19, 7:45 p.m.
  • Sept. 26, 11:45 a.m.
  • Oct. 1, 7:45 a.m.
  • All meetings at BJSPH will take place in Conference Room A.
• PWH
  • Sept. 24, 7:45 a.m.
  • Oct. 3, 11:45 a.m.
  • Oct. 4, 7:45 p.m.
  • All meetings at PWH will take place in Conference Room B.

Watch for more information in upcoming Scoops.

Making it easier to nominate others for their excellence

A new High Five nomination icon popped up on SLCH computer screens last week.

Now it’s easier to nominate a colleague for a High Five award for outstanding care or service.

Click the icon, and you’ll see the online nomination form.

Thanks to Deanna Carter, 12th floor, who suggested the icon after seeing a High Five graphic and link on the SLCH/BJC Workplace network.

The High Five recognition program is open to all frontline SLCH staff members (managers and above are not eligible). It recognizes individuals for going above and beyond their normal duties to ensure patients and families receive safe care, effective care and exceptional service.

Winners also earn recognition for creating an exceptional work environment and meeting or exceeding professional standards associated with their role.

SLCH scholarship winners include former patient

An SLCH patient was one of two winners of the 2018 Jane Spoehrer Memorial Scholarships of $5,000 each. Both scholarship winners volunteer at the hospital.

• Jessica Parker is a previous patient and shares her story in her nomination form. She began volunteering at SLCH two years ago. She enjoys volunteering in the sibling and patient playrooms and as a newborn ICU cuddler. As a previous patient, she’s passionate about giving back to the place that she feels has done so much for her and her family. Parker plans to attend Saint Louis University this fall.
• Eve Robinson volunteered at SLCH this past year, mostly in the patient playroom. She recognized how special it is to cheer up a child. She also wants to play a part in making them better physically, so she wants to become a nurse. She will attend Illinois Wesleyan University.

The SLCH Friends established the Jane Spoehrer Memorial Scholarship in 1987. Spoehrer was a dedicated SLCH volunteer for more than 30 years, starting in 1955. She also held many positions on the SLCH Friends board.

Annual Jane Spoehrer Memorial Scholarship winners Jessica Parker, second from left, and Eve Robinson are flanked by Sally Lemkemeier, far left, and her sister, Susan Elliott, daughters of Jane Spoehrer. | Photo by John Twombly

Car Care for Kids: Maintenance that makes a difference

Inspired by the SLCH mission to do what’s right for kids, the St. Louis Auto Dealers Association and BG Products Inc., a supplier of high quality fluids and professional equipment, are proud to partner to provide maintenance that makes a difference for kids
at SLCH.

This June, July and August, participating dealerships and BG Products are donating a portion of the proceeds from every service involving BG products to the SLCH Transport Team.

If you’ve been putting off getting your car ready for summer, wait no longer. Want a fuel system with that oil change? How about new brake fluid with those brake pads? The more love you give your car today, the more love kids at SLCH will feel tomorrow.

Visit StLouisChildrens.org/CarCare for a list of participating dealers and to learn more about Car Care for Kids.

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