AMH honors high performers

AMH honored 30 high performers, as nominated by department managers, at a luncheon March 12 in the café meeting rooms. Teri Bequette and Bryan Hartwick were among the AMH senior leaders serving at the luncheon.| Photos by Dave Whaley

High performers included, front row, from left, Karla Short, housekeeping; Jenny Bain, HR; Bridgett Denton, IMU; Amy Wylie, nursing float; Lisa Pace, HMI; Bridgett Cunningham-Haynes, surgical services; and Deb Frazier, education; middle row, from left, Megan Hickman, lab; Tonya Bertram, senior renewal; Beth Johnson, MCU; Heidi Quiggle, case management; Kristen Cloninger, IMU; Tonya Ballard, wound care; and Gwen Riney, performance improvement; and back row, from left, Danielle Darden, nursing float; Jaime Dwiggins, geropsych; Maggie O’Neill, obstetrics; Kari Copeland, digestive health; Karen Miller, pain management; Matt Johnston, cardiology; and Jeremy Clements, radiology. Not pictured: Carol Winchester, registration; Sheryl Saboff, obstetrics; Bev Pence, infusion center; Michelle Dunham, pharmacy; Lori Walker, neurology; Laurie Archibee, ICU; Michelle Mathis, ICU; Matt Piocos, EMS; and Amy Darr, surgical services.

‘Awesome’ Employees

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

Completed forms may be dropped off at the information desk or sent to the development office. For more information, contact Marlene Lewis, 618-463-7701.

Recent Awesome cards went to:

• Mary Delp, housekeeping
• Makayla Kessinger, EMS
• Kassie Herrmann, MCU
• Melissa Suhre, ED
• Regina Pritchard, ED
• Amy Wilson, MCU
• Sarah Feldmann, MCU
• Rita Corinne, MCU
• Beth Dickermann, MCU
• Denny Manning, MCU
• Tonya Henry, MCU
• Chris Stahl, MCU
• Nicki Hardman, MCU
• Tyler Lilley, MCU
• Jake Harrison, MCU
• Karen Meyer, home health

Daffodil days sale raises almost $3,000

Close to $3,000 was raised during the annual sale of daffodils at AMH. The money will go into the Alton Memorial Health Services Foundation’s Extra Mile Fund, benefiting oncology patients at AMH. Marlene Lewis, left, and Jeanne Truckey, development, sold the flowers in the AMH connector lobby March 20, the first day of spring. | Photo by Dave Whaley

Gebhart receives recognition from ESGR

Members of Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) recently recognized Lisa Gebhart, radiology clinical nurse manager, for supporting employee participation in America’s National Guard and Reserve Force.

ESGR is the lead Defense Department program that helps promote understanding and cooperation between employers and their National Guard and Reserve employees.

Gebhart was nominated by Maj. Emily Stuckey, U.S. Air Force critical care nurse. Stuckey worked in the BJH radiology department as an assistant nurse manager in interventional radiology and reported to Gebhart.

“Lisa is a great leader who really cares about the people who work for her,” said Stuckey before Gebhart was recognized with an award certificate and a gold pin. “I’m proud to have worked for her. I learned a lot and appreciate the experience.”

Dave Woolley of Missouri Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve and Maj. Emily Stuckey, U.S. Air Force critical care nurse, recognize Lisa Gebhart, radiology clinical nurse manager, center, for supporting employee participation in America’s National Guard and Reserve Force. | Photo by Mary Williams

Jane Bruegenhemke named patient care services director

Jane Bruegenhemke

Jane Bruegenhemke has been named patient care services director for BJSPH/PWH. Bruegenhemke has led women and infants services at PWH since 2015 and the pediatrics team since July 2017. During the past year, she served as the clinical operational leader of the strategic initiative, resulting in the opening of the PWH Level II newborn ICU.

Bruegenhemke joined BJC in 1993, working as a staff nurse for 10 years and a clinical nurse manager since 2003 in various nursing departments, including obstetrics and the intensive care unit.

Bruegenhemke earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Saint Louis University and her master of business administration degree from Webster University. She will graduate in May with a master’s degree in nursing from Webster University/BJC Cohort.

Tornado drill results in mass ‘casual-teddies’

Team members participated in a tornado drill at PWH March 6 in which teddy bears substituted for emergency department patients. Here, PWH’s Jan Young, RN, left, and Amanda Harris, PCT, administer first aid to their little blue patient. | Photo by Kerrie Livers

Volunteer honors colleague with Faces of Healing gift

Volunteer Pat Leitsch made a Faces of Healing gift in honor of another volunteer, Kathy Reinhardt, for her ability to not only support Parkinson’s patients when they come in for their exercise class, but also for her support for fellow volunteers.

“Kathy introduced herself and quickly put me at ease,” says Leitsch. “She encourages me to step out of my comfort zone and just give my best. Not only did she encourage me as a volunteer, but she also accepted me into her circle of friends and included me in her social group where I could make new friends.”

Pat Leitsch and Kathy Reinhardt

Employees support Siteman Cancer Center in St. Patrick’s Day parade

There was a lot of green seen as many team members wore Siteman shirts and/or walked in the Cottleville St. Patrick’s Day parade March 17. | Photo by Dawn Kohrt

Employees urged to add ‘moving minutes’ to their week

The BJC Siteman Cancer Center Help for Your Health committee is urging BJSPH/PWH employees to participate in a free four-week challenge to increase daily “moving minutes.”

Employees set a moving-minutes goal and track their minutes on a calendar. Those who have met their goal for the four weeks will be entered into a drawing for a $25 sporting goods store or music gift card of their choice, such as Dicks Sporting Goods, Academy Sports, iTunes, Google Play or Amazon. 

One winner from each hospital will be drawn. Whoever moves the most during the four-week challenge will be named the “Move-It Master” and will also be awarded a gift card.

The challenge runs April 1-28.

BJSPH/PWH schedule Town Hall meetings

BJSPH/PWH president Chris Watts will address upcoming employee Town Hall meetings, providing updates and answering questions.

Submit your questions in advance at www.surveymonkey.com/r/questionsforchris.

Town Halls will be held:

• April 9, 7:45 p.m., PWH conference room B
• April 12, 7:45 a.m., PWH conference room A
• April 17, 11:45 a.m., Conference Room B
• April 19, 7:45 a.m., BJSPH HealthWise

New hours for Progress West Hospital gift shop

The PWH gift shop has new hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Congratulations, Professional Development Program recipients

The BJWCH Spring 2018 Professional Development Program recipients include:

• 3P-Joy Booth, RN, BSN
• Level II–Tameeka Moses, surgical technologist
• 5P-Ann Bearden, RN, MSN
• 4P-Jenny Rehrig, RN, BSN
• 4P-Glen Weindel, RN, BSN

From left, Joy Booth, Ann Bearden and Jenny Rehrig enjoy the Professional Development Program ceremony March 25. Not pictured: Glen Weindel and Tameeka Moses. | Photo by Kelly Pahl

BJWCH Town Halls start April 23

BJWCH’s senior leadership team will host second-quarter employee Town Halls starting April 23.

Topics will include Epic and the replacement hospital. Employees can also meet Leslie Garavaglia, new director of finance and support service. Employees are also encouraged to bring questions to the Town Halls, as the senior leaders look forward to continuing their conversations with employees.

The Town Hall schedule is:

• April 23, 7:30 p.m.
• April 24, 3:15 p.m.
• April 28, 7:30 a.m.
• April 30, 7:30 a.m.
• May 2, 6:45 a.m.

All Town Halls will be held in Conference Room D.

BJWCH physicians celebrate with Doctors Day breakfast

BJWCH celebrated National Doctors Day March 28 with breakfast in the physicians’ lounge

“The entire BJWCH team celebrates you, our physician partners, for the outstanding care you deliver to our patients and their families,” said Trish Lollo, BJWCH president. “Your commitment and passion are evident day in and day out as you take the time to listen, diagnose and treat patients. You contribute countless hours serving on committees, attending meetings and trainings — all to help ensure our patients receive the best care possible at BJWCH.”

Celebrating Doctors Day are, from left, Trish Lollo, BJWCH president; Julie Margenthaler, MD, Siteman Cancer Center breast surgeon; and Amy Moore, MD, Washington University plastic and reconstructive surgeon. | Photo by Kelly Pahl

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 16th annual National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Walks fund-raiser, May 5, in Central Park-Chesterfield Amphitheater. 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 2017 alone, NAMI St. Louis served more than 15,000 clients in seven counties in the greater St. Louis region and answered nearly 1,000 helpline calls. Since 2008, more than 5,000 law enforcement and behavioral health professionals have been trained to respond effectively to incidents involving individuals experiencing a mental health crisis, directing them to treatment.

Register at https://www.namiwalks.org/team/BJCBehavioralHealth 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. 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 5
• Check-in: 9 a.m.
• Start: 10 a.m.
• Central Park (Chesterfield Amphitheater), 16365 Lydia Hill Drive, Chesterfield, Mo. 63017
• Walk options: 5K or 1 mile (walkers may walk shorter distances)
• Master of ceremonies: Kim Hudson, FOX2/News 11

From left are Dr. Kelly Johnson, Olivia Korpecki and Jeanette Korpecki at the 2017 NAMI walk. | 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.”

Terrace to be honored with Women’s Justice Award

Sally Terrace

Sally Terrace will receive the Corporate Award at the 2018 Missouri Lawyers Weekly Women’s Justice Awards in May. The Women’s Justice Awards recognize women across Missouri who have demonstrated leadership, integrity, service, sacrifice and accomplishment in improving the quality of justice and exemplifying the highest ideals of the legal profession. The Corporate Award, in particular, recognizes women who serve as senior in-house counsel, advising businesses on complex legal matters.

“Among many accomplishments, the award recognizes Sally’s years of service at BJC, her leadership and professionalism, and the respect of her colleagues and clients,” says David Aplington, BJC senior vice president and general counsel. “Sally also is very generous with her time, often using it to teach and mentor others and to promote the achievements of others.”

Terrace will be honored at the 20th annual Women’s Justice Awards event, May 3 at the Four Seasons Hotel.

Jeffrey Dunkle retires after 11 years with BJC

Jeffrey Dunkle

After 11 years of service to BJC, Jeffrey Dunkle, BJC supply chain sourcing manager, retired March 16. During his tenure with BJC, Dunkle’s capital team stretched capital funding by more than $100 million in the last decade. Dunkle also served for three years as the supply chain representative on a Healthcare Purchasing News panel that discussed and demonstrated improved support to critical care units during annual American Association of Critical Care Nursing conventions.

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.

Jane Herold joins BJC Medical Group at Northwest HealthCare

Jane Herold

Jane Herold, AGPCNP-BC, has joined BJC Medical Group at Northwest HealthCare. Herold, who grew up in north St. Louis County, is looking forward to providing care in her home community.

A board-certified adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, Herold will care for patients who need to be seen immediately for acute (sick) care visits.

She received her master’s degree in 2016 from Maryville University. Previously, she was a registered nurse at Barnes-Jewish Hospital for more than seven years. She is passionate about providing care in an individualized setting, focusing on what is best for each patient.

“I am committed to improving patient outcomes through health promotion and disease prevention,” she says.

As a primary care provider, Herold offers same-day and next day-appointments for minor injuries and illnesses, including cough, cold and flu symptoms, urinary tract infections, muscle strains and sprains, and immunizations.

Jane Herold, AGPCNP-BC, is a member of BJC Medical Group and is affiliated with Christian Hospital. The practice is at 1225 Graham Road, Suite 2320, Florissant, Mo., and can be reached at 314-953-6801. For more information, visit bjcmedicalgroup.org.

Amy Maher joins Alton OB-GYN

Amy Maher

Amy Maher, FNP-C, has joined Joseph Talsky, MD, and Deb Cunningham, WHNP, on the women’s health care team at Alton OB-GYN.

Maher, a certified family nurse practitioner, received her master’s degree in nursing from Walden University in 2017. Previously, she was a registered nurse with the Madison County Health Department. She also has more than 12 years of nursing and patient care experience in labor, delivery and postpartum care.

“I really enjoy the education side of being a nurse practitioner, and it’s an important part of how I provide care,” Maher says. “I want to help patients make informed decisions concerning their health and the health of their family.”

At Alton OB-GYN, Maher will care for women of all ages. She offers general obstetrics and gynecologic care, providing services including well-woman exams and HPV vaccinations, as well as family planning and education, including birth control options such as Nexplanon insertion and removal.

Amy Maher, FNP-C, is a member of Alton OB-GYN, 4 Memorial Drive, Medical Office Building B, Suite 230, Alton, Ill. The practice can be reached at 618-433-6410. For more information, visit bjcmedicalgroup.org.

‘Use A Lift: Get A Gift!’

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

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

Gift cards were donated by Michael Szewczyk, MD.

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

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

Christian Hospital nurse leaders show TEAMwork

CH nurse leaders gathered at The Emergency Assistance Ministry (TEAM) March 16, to stock the food warehouse and bag grocery orders for the organization. TEAM provides food to needy families in the Florissant and Hazelwood areas.

“What an amazing and eye-opening experience to volunteer in the food pantry and gather food for needy families,” says Jill Sauer, seventh floor patient care manager. “I learned there is so much more we can do to help those in need, and when there is a food drive, everyone needs to participate to keep these places running. An amazing group runs this center — they are so passionate.”

A variety of volunteering opportunities with local organizations are available. To learn more, contact Mindy Copp, CH Foundation, Melinda.Copp@bjc.org or 314-653-4410.

Pictured at TEAM, are from left, front row, Amy Rainey, Tommi Cline, Mandy Picket, Kim Wagner, Kim Clark, Stephanie Kribs-Grabner and Kim Jamieson; and back row, CoKeisha Van Hook, Gregg Liedtke and Jill Sauer. | Courtesy photo

Susan Koesterer

Koesterer named CFO of the Year

Susan Koesterer, MBA, CPA, chief financial officer for BJC’s north region, has been selected as the St. Louis Business Journal’s CFO of the Year in the Health Care category. Koesterer will be honored with this recognition at a special awards ceremony April 26.

Boguslawa Lubecki

Boguslawa Lubecki retires after 22 years

Boguslawa Lubecki retired March 30 from ultrasound after 22 years of service. She also served as faculty coordinator for the ultrasound students from St. Louis Community College doing their clinical rotations at CH.

Peggy Mathews

Peggy Mathews retires after 29 years

Peggy Mathews retired March 30 from the lab after 29 years of service. Her co-workers hosted a retirement potluck celebration within the lab.

CH cath lab and pain management each get 5-Star Award

CH has been recognized with two Excellence in Healthcare Awards, based on data from patient surveys compiled by Professional Research Consultants (PRC), the national customer-satisfaction surveyor used by BJC and major health care facilities across the nation:

• 5-Star Award for Cardiac Cath Lab (90th percentile nationwide)
• 5-Star Award for CH Pain Management Center Outpatient Services (90th percentile nationwide)

PRC noted that CH’s focus on excellence is making it a better place to work, practice medicine and for patients to be treated. The awards will be presented to CH in May at PRC’s national conference in Charleston, S.C.

Volunteers needed to represent CH at Valley of Flowers events

CH needs volunteers for Florissant’s upcoming Valley of Flowers events.

Volunteers are needed at CH’s informational booth from noon-9 p.m., May 4, and from 9 a.m.-6 p.m., May 5. Parade walkers are also needed to meet at 1 p.m., May 6, to walk the 2.5-mile parade route.

To sign up for a few hours or to learn more, contact Becky Niebruegge, CH communications and marketing, Rebecca.Niebruegge@bjc.org or 314-653-5245.

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

Jane Gusmano named vice president of finance

Jane Gusmano

Jane Gusmano, MBA, CPA, has been named finance vice president for Memorial Regional Health Services Inc. She has served in this role on an interim basis since April 2017.

Gusmano has worked at BJC since October 2000 in various financial roles, most recently leading the PeopleSoft team.

In addition to financial oversight for MRHS, Gusmano also has administrative responsibility for finance, patient access, health information management and supply chain, as well as serving as liaison with BJC for various corporate financial functions.

Memorial hospitals recognized for outstanding patient experience

MHB and MHE were recently recognized for outstanding patient experience by national health care research leader Professional Research Consultants Inc. (PRC).

MHB was named a Top Performer for outpatient respiratory services and received a 5-star rating for outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation.

MHE received 5-star recognition for overall quality of care in the emergency department, outpatient diagnostic services, outpatient surgical services and care transitions, as well as 4-star honors for inpatient services.

“We are very pleased to be recognized for the quality care our team delivers to our patients,” says Mark Turner, MRHS president. “Recognition from those we serve is a testament to the exceptional health care and compassionate service our employees and medical staff provide.”

Food and nutrition manager looks different — and makes a difference

For years, Amy Frye, MHE food and nutrition manager, had considered raising money for childhood cancer by shaving her head, but something always came up — weddings, babies or other life business.

But, in the midst of it all, she’s always been aware of her blessings — especially her healthy 2-year-old son — so she wanted to pay it forward.

Frye was aware of the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, a charity that supports research to find cures for childhood cancers. She signed up on the St. Baldrick’s website the first week of February and has raised more than $1,400. Frye was also able to donate her hair to a program that makes wigs for children.

“While I cannot afford to donate millions of dollars needed, I can do my part to make a difference,” she says. “Be the difference you want to see in the world.”

Amy Frye, MHE food and nutrition manager, before and after shaving her head for childhood cancer. | Courtesy photos

Washington University Physicians in Illinois providing intensivist service at Memorial

Dr. Jiggar Hindia

Washington University Physicians in Illinois Inc. now provides intensivist services to critical care patients at Memorial Hospital, as of April 1. Jiggar Hindia, DO, of O’Fallon, Ill., serves as medical director of Memorial’s intensivist program.

“We’re pleased to have Washington University physicians provide intensivist services to our critical care patients,” says Mark Turner, Memorial Regional Health Services president. “In addition, Dr. Hindia brings a wealth of experience and expertise and will be an asset to our team and our patients.”

Dr. Hindia completed his internal medicine residency and critical care fellowship at Mercy Hospital in St. Louis. Board-certified in both internal medicine and critical medicine, he worked as an intensivist and tele-intensivist at several hospitals in the region.

An intensivist is a board-certified physician who has advanced training and experience in treating complex critically ill patients. The intensivist has the primary responsibility for the ICU patient’s care, leading a team of caregivers who are experts in different specialties. The intensivist also oversees the many decisions involved in a critically ill patient’s care and coordinates all the other services the patient may need — including those from specialists.

Unit recognized for reducing CAUTI rate

The intermediate medical care unit (IMCU) was recognized by MHB infection prevention in March for significantly reducing the unit’s urinary catheter utilization rate from December 2017 to February 2018.

Decreasing catheter associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) is a national patient safety goal. CAUTIs can lead to extended hospital stays, an increased risk of C. difficile due to antibiotic use, and an increase in multi-drug resistant bacteria. Part of the effort in decreasing CAUTIs is promoting the decreased use of indwelling urinary catheters.

The intermediate medical care unit (IMCU) was recognized last month by MHB infection prevention for significantly reducing the unit’s urinary catheter utilization rate. | Courtesy photo

Breast HealthCare Center gets grant for breast screenings

Alissa Nicks, right, and her husband, Corie, left, founders of Alissa’s Hope, present their third annual gift of $5,000 to Tanya English, program manager of the Breast HealthCare Center at MBMC. The funds are used to provide free breast screenings, diagnostics, ultrasounds and biopsies to underinsured and uninsured women, especially younger than age 45, who aren’t covered by other grants. | Courtesy photo

MBSH imaging department gets positioning sponges through employee campaign funds

The MBSH radiology ultrasound department recently purchased four new patient positioning sponges, thanks to funds raised by the 2017 MBSH and Fidelity Communications employee campaign.

The campaign raised almost $8,500 to purchase medical equipment for the hospital. Seven MBSH departments received equipment purchased with campaign funds. Representatives from MBSH and Fidelity selected the items to be purchased.

The ultrasound positioning sponges not only make imaging more comfortable for patients, but also allow technologists to position a patient properly for optimal image quality. The four sponges cost $492.

“We really appreciate the help of the employee campaign to provide the positioning sponges for our patients,” says Travis Little, imaging services manager. “The sponges will improve patient comfort, as well as the quality of the exam results for
the doctors.”

From left, sonographer Amber McCracken, imaging manager Travis Little and sonographer Kimberly Chaves display the position sponges bought with funds from the 2017 MBSH and Fidelity Communications employee fund-raising campaign. | Photo by David Hartwick

Eighth annual MBSH fund-raising dinner draws record crowd

The MBSH Ambassadors annual fund-raising dinner Feb. 24 was a huge success, surpassing previous fund-raisers in attendance and proceeds. More than 350 attendees came to the Eagles Hall to offer their support to MBSH.

The theme for the evening was “Après Snow Ski Party,” with ski equipment decorations. The night included live and silent auctions, raffles, and desserts, along with a ski-themed photo booth.

MBSH president Tony Schwarm welcomed the guests to the event and thanked them for their generous support. He shared news about MBSH’s recent Vizient Quality leadership award, with MBSH ranking seventh out of 161 similar sized community hospitals.

Robin Butts, MBSH therapy and wellness manager, thanked the crowd for supporting the Ambassador board’s purchase of much-needed equipment for her department. Paul Perkins, First Community National Bank chairman, discussed his experiences at MBSH and Missouri Baptist Medical Center. He gave a heartfelt thanks for the lifesaving care he received at both facilities. Perkins has published a book about his experience, “Death Defied, Life Denied, a Miracle Man’s Memoir.”

The Eagles Club then presented a $4,000 check to MBSH executive director Lisa Lochner for the MBSH cancer infusion program. The donation was a result of the proceeds from a recent bingo fund-raising event. Lochner concluded the evening’s remarks by expressing appreciation to the individuals and business members for their show of overwhelming support and generosity.

The MBSH Après Snow Ski Party fund-raising dinner drew a capacity crowd. | Courtesy photo

MBSH honors doctors and nurse practitioners on National Doctors Day

MBSH celebrated National Doctors Day, March 30, with a breakfast buffet for the medical staff.

MBSH president Tony Schwarm expressed his thanks to the providers for their service to the hospital and in the community. “We appreciate your dedication and commitment to the health of the people we serve,” Schwarm said. “We are glad to celebrate this special day with you.”

From left, Tony Schwarm, MBSH president; Armela Agasino, MD, wound care physician; and Lisa Lochner, MBSH executive director, celebrate Doctors Day. | Courtesy photos

Mark Krupp, MD, intern, and Thomas Jackson, MD, internal medicine, celebrate Doctors Day.

Seated, from left, are Megan Turnbough, FNP, and Robyn Hedges, FNP; and standing, from left, are Lynn Frey, clinic office manager; Chris Gaskill, regional practice administrator; and Tony Schwarm, MBSH president.

Mary Brann is Star Service Team Member for March

Mary Brann

Mary Brann, RN, was selected as the ICARE Star Service Team Member for March. Brann, a registered nurse on the medical/surgical floor and in the emergency department, has worked at PHC for two years.

Excerpts from her nomination read, “Our ICARE Star Service Employee for March is kind, caring and patient. She goes above and beyond to help her co-workers, no matter what zone or facility she is assigned. She somehow is always where you need her to be in an emergency. I think she sets an example on how teamwork should be approached.”

Brann says she loves the people she works with. “I feel like we’re a team,” she says. “I love working here.”

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

Jane Bruegenhemke named patient care services director

Jane Bruegenhemke

Jane Bruegenhemke has been named patient care services director for BJSPH/PWH. Bruegenhemke has led women and infants services at PWH since 2015 and the pediatrics team since July 2017. During the past year, she served as the clinical operational leader of the strategic initiative, resulting in the opening of the PWH Level II newborn ICU.

Bruegenhemke joined BJC in 1993, working as a staff nurse for 10 years and a clinical nurse manager since 2003 in various nursing departments, including obstetrics and the intensive care unit.

Bruegenhemke earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Saint Louis University and her master of business administration degree from Webster University. She will graduate in May with a master’s degree in nursing from Webster University/BJC Cohort.

Tornado drill results in mass ‘casual-teddies’

Team members participated in a tornado drill at PWH March 6 in which teddy bears substituted for emergency department patients. Here, PWH’s Jan Young, RN, left, and Amanda Harris, PCT, administer first aid to their little blue patient. | Photo by Kerrie Livers

Volunteer honors colleague with Faces of Healing gift

Volunteer Pat Leitsch made a Faces of Healing gift in honor of another volunteer, Kathy Reinhardt, for her ability to not only support Parkinson’s patients when they come in for their exercise class, but also for her support for fellow volunteers.

“Kathy introduced herself and quickly put me at ease,” says Leitsch. “She encourages me to step out of my comfort zone and just give my best. Not only did she encourage me as a volunteer, but she also accepted me into her circle of friends and included me in her social group where I could make new friends.”

Pat Leitsch and Kathy Reinhardt

Employees support Siteman Cancer Center in St. Patrick’s Day parade

There was a lot of green seen as many team members wore Siteman shirts and/or walked in the Cottleville St. Patrick’s Day parade March 17. | Photo by Dawn Kohrt

Employees urged to add ‘moving minutes’ to their week

The BJC Siteman Cancer Center Help for Your Health committee is urging BJSPH/PWH employees to participate in a free four-week challenge to increase daily “moving minutes.”

Employees set a moving-minutes goal and track their minutes on a calendar. Those who have met their goal for the four weeks will be entered into a drawing for a $25 sporting goods store or music gift card of their choice, such as Dicks Sporting Goods, Academy Sports, iTunes, Google Play or Amazon. 

One winner from each hospital will be drawn. Whoever moves the most during the four-week challenge will be named the “Move-It Master” and will also be awarded a gift card.

The challenge runs April 1-28.

BJSPH/PWH schedule Town Hall meetings

BJSPH/PWH president Chris Watts will address upcoming employee Town Hall meetings, providing updates and answering questions.

Submit your questions in advance at www.surveymonkey.com/r/questionsforchris.

Town Halls will be held:

• April 9, 7:45 p.m., PWH conference room B
• April 12, 7:45 a.m., PWH conference room A
• April 17, 11:45 a.m., Conference Room B
• April 19, 7:45 a.m., BJSPH HealthWise

New hours for Progress West Hospital gift shop

The PWH gift shop has new hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Mary Blackwel

Mary Blackwell receives distinction

Mary Blackwell, 12th floor, earned the monthly President’s Award.

The 12th floor team saluted Blackwell, a patient care tech, for her compassionate care of all patients and families. One nurse who floats to various units says, “When I see Mary is my tech, I know I’m going to have a great day.”

Deanna Carter, RN, pediatric ICU, spearheaded a collective nomination. “Words can’t put into meaning what Mary brings to our floor,” Carter says. “She loves what she does and loves the kids.”

The 12th floor team honored Mary Blackwell. | Courtesy photo

Pediatric Acute Wound Service moves

The Pediatric Acute Wound Service (PAWS) has moved. PAWS shares space with the renovated Ambulatory Procedure Center. PAWS’ services remain the same. Families now check in before their scheduled appointment at the admitting/registration desk on level 1.

Safety Stop special offer through May 15

SLCH’s four Safety Stop locations are offering $5 bike helmets and safety gear (regularly $11) through May 15. SLCH Safety Stop can also help make sure your child is wearing the appropriate safety gear and that it fits properly.

Call 314-454-KIDS (5437), then press 3 to make an appointment. The child must be present at the appointment, and appointments must take place between April 1 and May 15.

National honor details

Joan Smith

SLCH is among a network of more than 130 children’s hospitals in the United States and Canada that earned the national 2018 John M. Eisenberg Patient Safety and Quality Award. The network is called Children’s Hospitals’ Solutions for Patient Safety.

“Being part of SPS allows us to build relationships with others within the network,” says Joan Smith, clinical quality and safety director. “It provides a framework for members to humbly share successes/failures and learn from one another.
As we teach and learn from one another, we continuously improve and achieve our safety goals faster — ensuring every child is safe in our care, every day.”

The Joint Commission and the National Quality Forum (NQF) presented the award March 12 during NQF’s 2018 Annual Conference in Washington, D.C.

Mark Dwyer

Mark Dwyer named TRISL CEO

Mark Dwyer has been named chief executive officer of The Rehabilitation Institute of St. Louis, effective Oct. 11. Dwyer replaces Tara Diebling as she moves to her new role as CEO of HealthSouth’s Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Hospital.

Dwyer, who began his career in rehabilitation as a physical therapist, has served in a variety of rehabilitation leadership roles throughout his 30-year career. Most recently, he served as the director of rehabilitation services and sports medicine at an acute care hospital in Kansas. On top of his responsibilities as a health care leader, Dwyer served as an adjunct instructor and lecturer for physical therapy students in the university setting.

“His strong rehabilitation leadership knowledge, coupled with his experience in direct patient care as a physical therapist, makes Mark a perfect fit to lead the staff at The Rehabilitation Hospital of St. Louis,” says Troy DeDecker, president of the central region for HealthSouth. “In addition, his commitment to patient care and achieving exceptional results will help our hospital return patients back to the community safely and at their most optimal levels of independence. We are grateful to have him as part of our team.”

Dwyer earned a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy and a master’s degree in health services administration with a concentration in outcomes from Kansas University. He is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

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