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MMC Earns Numerous Accolades
Journal of Wellness and Good Healthcare
DONNA CARTER, Chief Nursing Officer of Minden Medical Center, has been presented the 2011 “CNO of the Year” award. LifePoint Hospitals®, a leading hospital company focused on providing healthcare services in non-urban communities, presented the annual award, which is given to the CNO who best exemplifies the mission, vision and values of LifePoint. “Donna is an engaged, nurturing, sensitive and thoughtful leader who is hard on problems and soft on people,” said Michelle Watson, LifePoint’s Chief Nursing Officer for the American Division. “She always puts the patient first. Minden consistently ranks #1 in the company for quality measures and constituency satisfaction. Donna is an instrumental
resource not only to her hospital, but also to the Division and the entire network of LifePoint hospitals.” George E. French III, CEO of Minden Medical Center, described Donna as “laserfocused.” “Donna knows how to get things done,” French said. “Her organizational skills are matched only by her dedication to the hospital and its patients. She has been a mainstay of the senior administrative team at Minden, and has contributed to the hospital’s success for more than 22 years.” Carter is the second recipient of the annual award. The new “O of the Year” awards are based on LifePoint’s “Leadership Model,” which focuses on the mastery of business, relationship and personal skills and
Spring 2011
Minden Medical Center loads up on awards. Making and receiving are (from left) Michael Clark, American Division President of LifePoint Hospitals; Donna Carter, CNO of Minden Medical Center; Jim Williams, CFO of Minden Medical Center; George E. French III, CEO of Minden Medical Center; and William F. Carpenter III, President and CEO of LifePoint Hospitals.
includes the core values that serve as a compass for those behaviors – honor, trustworthiness, legal and ethical compliance, and compassion. The following awards were also presented to Minden Medical Center during the Operations Conference: Patient, Emergency Department, Inpatient, Physician and Employee Constituency awards along
with the Core Measure award which was renamed the “LifePoint/Minden Medical Center” Core Measure Award. Jim Williams, CFO of Minden Medical Center, was awarded for his service on the CFO council. Jim and his team were also awarded the inaugural LifePoint Ethics & Compliance Award. French, Williams and Carter thanked all MMC
employees, saying each one of these accomplishments – whether awarded individually or to the hospital – is a testament to the dedication of all of the excellent employees, management team and medical staff. The presentations were made at LifePoint Hospitals’ annual Operations Conference on January 26, in Nashville, Tennessee.
AROUND MINDEN MEDICAL CENTER
Our Physicians, Employees Happy
Here’s a glimpse at MMC’s support groups, classes & events. Find a complete listing at www.mindenmedicalcenter.com and click on Community. Classes are free unless otherwise noted.
EVENTS
Relay For Life l Friday, April 15th Senior Friends 5pm until l First Tuesday of each Downtown Minden month 1:30-2:30pm NEW TIME SUPPORT Webster Parish LibraryGROUPS Stewart Center 318-382-8282 Alzheimer’s Caregivers For those 50 and older l Second Thursday of Open House for Dr. Lewis each month, 6pm l Tuesday, March 15 MMC Senior Care 4pm to 6pm 5th Floor 812 Broadway Street 318-371-5638 318-377-0010
WorkFit 15th Anniversary Celebration l Thursday, March 31 11am to 1pm Community House 711 Gladney St. 318-371-5610
Diabetes l Third Thursday of each month, 6pm MMC Cafeteria 318-377-2589 318-377-0060
Sharing & Caring l Second Thursday of each month, 7pm MMC Ed Building 729 Main Street 318-371-3279 For those who have suffered the death of a baby by pregnancy loss, stillborn or in the first few months of life. CLASSES
Breastfeeding Class l Second Monday & Tuesday of each month 6-8pm MMC Ed Building 729 Main Street 318-371-3242
Camp Mindy l Monday at 10am MMC 4th Floor 318-371-5660 Hospital Orientation for first-time parents & seasoned pros.
Lamaze Based Childbirth Classes l Third Tuesday of each month 6-8:30pm MMC Ed Building 729 Main Street 318-371-5660
Senior Fitness l Meets weekly, Every Tuesday from 10-11am Minden Presbyterian Church $5 per class 318-371-3218
MMC Welcomes New Board Members
Minden Medical Center is pleased to welcome Minden City Councilman Tommy Davis and Dr. Stephen Coleman to the hospital’s Board of Governors.
Minden Medical Center Earns Excellence Through Insight Awards for Overall Employee Satisfaction
Minden Medical Center satisfaction from among (MMC) was recently recog- HealthStream Research’s nized with an Excellence clients, as well as exceeding through Insight award for industry standards. These “Overall Physician awards recognize Satisfaction” and MMC was chosen the hospitals that “Overall Employee excel in their ability for receiving the Satisfaction” in the to gain insight into highest ratings in medium hospital their patients, medical staff and category by employee satisfaction employees, physifrom among HealthStream cians and commuHealthStream Research, the nity through clients, as research and to use research business Research’s well as exceeding group of industry standards. that information to HealthStream Inc. These awards recog- build excellence A formal presenta- nize the hospitals that within their organition of the awards excel in their ability zation. will be made during to gain insight into Commenting on their patients, HealthStream’s custhe awards, J. tomer Summit, May employees, physi- Edward Pearson, 5, 2011 in cians and community President of research and N a s h v i l l e , through to use that informa- H e a l t h S t r e a m Tennessee. tion to build excel- Research, said “At Minden Medical HealthStream lence within their Center was awarded Research we are organization. this honor for its honored to work commitment to with hospitals that excellence in mediare committed to cal staff and employee satis- providing excellent patient faction. To qualify for an experiences. That is why we award, a hospital must have are delighted to recognize been a medical staff and Minden Medical Center as a employee satisfaction client of hospital at the top of its class HealthStream Research in for physician and employee 2010, scored in the 75th per- satisfaction. Their dedication centile or higher, and conduct- to providing the highest staned a minimum of 50 physician dards not only benefits the hossurveys. MMC was chosen for pital, but the way healthcare is receiving the highest ratings in perceived and valued by the medical staff and employee surrounding community.”
The Dangers of Texting While Driving
It’s nothing to LOL about
It seems like everyone has a blackberry, an iPhone, or some other such phone with a qwerty text-friendly keyboard. Texting provides users with on demand information from their friends and family members. It's no wonder it's gained such widespread popularity, especially among teenagers. But teens aren't the only ones texting. Adults are guilty of checking their email,
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Councilman Tommy Davis
tweeting, and setting appointments on their calendar. These actions have resulted in dangerous and reckless driving behavior. Texting can kill. Yes, texting while driving has led to more and more automobile accidents. In fact, a recent experiment by one of the leading US automotive magazines revealed that texting while driving is more of a threat than drunk driving. So much so, that many cities have banned texting while driving and Louisiana has taken especially aggressive measures towards texters with the Text Messaging Ban
Dr. Stephen Coleman
& Novice Cell Phone Law: Act No. 665, also known as Senate Bill 137 is Louisiana's new Text Messaging and Cell-Phone law. The new driving laws Prohibits Text Messaging by all Drivers and limits the use of Cell Phones by novice drivers. Novice driver's in Louisiana that hold a Class "E" learner's license are prohibited from making calls on a cell-phone or any wireless telecommunication device while driving unless the communication device is a HandsFree device. Here are some statistics as to why texting is so danger-
ous: n When a driver texts while driving, his reaction time will decrease by 35% n When texting, steering capability goes down by a tremendous amount; 91%. n A driver is twenty three times more likely to get into a car accident while driving and texting. n Drivers are also six times as likely to get into a car accident while dialing a number into their cellular devices.
Health News Spring 2011
AROUND MINDEN MEDICAL CENTER
Dr. Shannon Spigener named Alumnus of Year
Louisiana Tech University announced Minden Medical Center physician Dr. Shannon Spigener has been named the 2010 College of Applied and Natural Sciences Alumnus of the Year. "I feel extremely proud, humbled and proud to represent Tech. I am very proud to have obtained my undergraduate degree from Louisiana Tech and I hope to continue to be a good representative of the college," said Spigener. Currently the Emergency Department Staff Physician at the Minden Medical Center in Minden, Spigener was the Emergency Department Staff Physician from September 2004 through August 2010 and spent July 1997 to August 2004 as Assistant Professor and Staff Physician at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in Shreveport, La. Spigener is a 1989 Bachelor of Sciences, Health Information Administration graduate from Louisiana Tech University in Ruston. She underwent her family medicine internship and residency at Louisiana State University Medical Center before becoming Chief Resident. Spigener has received many honors throughout her education and career, including: pres-
Minden Medical Center physician Dr. Shannon Spigener has been named the 2010 College of Applied and Natural Sciences Alumnus of the Year.
ident of Delta Zeta Sorority, Omicron Delta Kappa, Mortar Board, Louisiana Tech Who's Who 1989, Gamma Beta Phi Society of Teachers of Family Medicine Student Teacher Award, LSU School of Medicine freshman class vicepresident and LSU School of Medicine student body vice president. Born in 1967 in Homer, La., Spigener enjoys traveling, gardening, flying, scuba diving and spending time with her husband Charles E. "Chuck" Self and daughters Emily, 9, and Haley, 6.
Nicaraguan Mission Trip
Several individuals in Nicaragua are sporting new knees thanks to the surgical skills of Minden’s own Dr. Timothy W. Talbert. Talbert volunteered for a mission trip to Nicaragua in January. First Baptist Church of Minden sponsored the trip and the purpose of the trip was to minister to the people and to provide assistance to those in need of hip or knee replacement. “The trip made me a more compassionate and understanding person,” Talbert said. “I was touched and have been blessed in my life. I’m called to give back to them.” Dr. Talbert said he participated in his first mission trip in 1995, when he went to Macao while between his second and third year of medical school. Talbert and his family joined First Baptist Church, Minden, in 2003. That is where he learned of the church’s Nicaragua Mission Program, where volunteers treat medical needs such as disease and infection. He has made five trips to Nicaragua. In early 2009, Talbert was with a surgical team that performed 12 surgeries of basic orthopedic work. In August of 2009, he returned with the Church Mission Team where he performed six total joint replacements. In January of this year, he and a team of Doctors and nurses performed 33 surgeries. “I’ll go back every year,” Talbert said. “I get a joy in my heart and the people that go
Dr. Timothy Talbert takes a photo with the local nurses who assisted him during surgeries as part of his mission trip to Nicaragua.
with us are touched in a very special way. We need to provide what help we can.” According to Talbert, Zimmer, through a partnership with AmeriCares, a leading medical relief organization, provided $80 to 100 thousand worth of implants for the recent trip. Stryker provided $275 thousand. Minden Medical Center and Highland Hospital both sent roughly $10 thousand in equipment and supplies. “The mission would not be financially possible without the monetary contributions,” Talbert said. “It wouldn’t be possible without the time and efforts of those who take off work and volunteer their own time to help. The medical care down there is free, as far as the physician component of it, but any implants, anything you put in your body, you have to pay
for it.” The surgeon said a total hip or knee replacement costs four to five thousand dollars. “They have well trained orthopedic doctors, but they just don’t have the implants,” said Talbert. “Down there, they reuse everything. They reuse plates, they reuse screws — things that we discard, they sterilize and re-implant because those people just can’t afford it.” Talbert said the mission trips aren’t just about helping the Nicaraguan people with physical needs, but with spiritual needs as well. “We want to spread the word of Jesus,” he said. “That’s something they can look forward to that can’t be worn out or replaced. We want to see the word of God spread to give hope to the less fortunate.”
Afraid to Laugh, Cough or Sneeze? Non invasive treatment available for Incontinence and Overactive Bladder
INCONTINENCE AND OVERACTIVE BLADDER (OAB) are debilitating medical problems that affect millions of people worldwide. When left untreated, these issues can lead to a wide variety of other problems including depression, emotional stress and social isolation. The impact on a person’s quality of life can be quite significant. In addition to the negative impact on social and professional relationships, it can have a huge economic impact due to increased medical costs, both directly and indirectly. Falls,
fractures, sleep disturbance, urinary tract infections, and skin infections are just some of the consequences of over active bladder and incontinence. In 2000, persons with OAB were estimated to have spent $12.6 billion per year to manage symptoms related to OAB and incontinence. Overactive bladder affects approximately 16% of men and 17% of women in the U.S. OAB is defined as symptoms of urgency with, or without incontinence, usually with increased daytime frequency and nocturia (night
Health News Spring 2011
time toileting). Although the recognition of OAB has increased among both patients and providers, increased awareness is imperative. Being willing to discuss symptoms with your healthcare provider and explore treatment options can improve a patient’s quality of life and help to resume more normal daily patterns and activities. With an aging population, the number of persons with OAB is sure to increase. Individuals can maintain a healthier lifestyle and help reduce the huge economic impact of this disease by gaining
understanding and effectively managing this condition. One primary treatment recommended for management of OAB is pelvic muscle rehab. At Minden Medical Center, our program is very comprehensive and includes pelvic floor muscle exercises, bladder training with biofeedback and or electric stimulation, urge suppression techniques, lifestyle modification with diet and fluid changes, and physiological quieting techniques. The results are impressive with an 85% success rate and
improvement usually noted within 3-4 treatment sessions. The program is not only effective for OAB, but also a wide variety of bowel and bladder issues related to incontinence. If you have a patient experiencing problems related to OAB or incontinence and would like to schedule a consultation with our pelvic muscle rehab therapist, please call our office at (318) 371-3287. We look forward to working with you and helping to improve your patients’ quality of life.
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AROUND MINDEN MEDICAL CENTER
Find It and Treat It Early Important Facts About Colorectal Cancer
No one likes to think about colorectal cancer – a disease that can attack the colon, the rectum or both. It’s a scary thought – especially since the disease is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. But, there is good news. “Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers through regular screenings, a healthy diet and regular exercise” explains Dr. Chad E. Lewis. “If you do detect it early, treatment can save your life.”
WHERE IT ALL BEGINS
Colorectal cancer occurs in the large intestine – the colon and rectum. Most colorectal cancers develop from polyps, which are abnormal or precancerous growths on the lining of the large intestine.
to a colonoscopy, a sigmoidoscope can be used to view the lower part of the colon. If you choose a sigmoidoscopy, it should be repeated every five years. n Fecal occult blood test. Once-a-year stool tests are also used to detect colorectal cancer. Requires collecting a stool sample at home using a kit. The samples are sent to a laboratory to be examined for traces of blood. If blood is found, you will need a colonoscopy to find the cause of the blood – which may or may not be cancer. Something as common as hemorrhoids can trigger blood in stools.
TREATMENT
"If colorectal cancer does develop, treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these or other treatments. Surgery is March is Colorectal Cancer the most common treatment for colorectal cancer and can be used to Awareness Month. Colorectal cancer remove cancer in or near the colon or affects both men and women. If you rectum," said Dr. Lewis. "Between 80are 50 or older, talk with your 90% of patients are restored to normal doctor about getting screened for health if the cancer is detected and treated in the earliest stages. However, colon cancer. the cure rate drops to 50% or less when diagnosed in the later stages."
Not all polyps turn into cancer. But when they do, the disease can invade and damage nearby tissues and organs, and the cancer can spread to other parts of the body. The most important thing to remember about polyps, however, is this: Detecting and removing them while they’re still in their precancerous stage can prevent most colorectal cancers.
LOOKING FOR PROBLEMS
Since there are very few symptoms associated with colorectal cancer, regular screening is essential. The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that adults who are at average risk for developing colorectal cancer choose one of the following screening options starting at age 50. You may need earlier or more frequent screenings if you’re at increased or high risk for the disease. Working with your doctor, you can decide which screening test to use and when you should begin testing.
n Colonoscopy. During this test, a doctor gently moves a long lighted tube with a tiny camera into your rectum and through your entire colon. (You are sedated during the procedure.) The doctor can see the inside of your colon on a viewing screen. If polyps are found, he or she can remove the polyps immediately with special tools, thus destroying a potential health threat. If you choose a colonoscopy as your screening tool, and the exam is negative, it should be repeated every 10 years. n Sigmoidoscopy. In a similar procedure
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HOW CAN I LOWER MY RISK?
n Make sure your doctor has a complete list of all your prescription and non prescription medicines and supplements before the day of your colonoscopy. This is especially important if you take blood thinners or medicines for diabetes. Ask your doctor if you should take your usual medicines close to the examination time. nAlso, provide a list of allergies you have to drugs and other substances. Tell your doctor if you have heart, lung or other medical conditions that may need special attention before, during or after the colonoscopy. n To prepare for the procedure, it’s essential to cleanse your colon. A clean colon makes it possible to have a thorough examination. A drink designed to stimulate bowel movements is popular for cleansing. However, some doctors may prefer that you drink clear fluids or make use of enemas or suppositories. Whatever method your doctor chooses, read and follow the directions carefully. n On the night before the colonoscopy, follow instructions about what to ear or drink. Know when to eat your last meal or snack before the procedure begins.
To lower your risk of colorectal cancer, the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons recommends that you: Get regular colorectal cancer screenings after age 50. Between 80-90% of colorectal cancer patients are restored to normal health After your colonoscopy, you will be if their cancer is detected and treated in the taken to a recovery area. When most of the earliest stages. medications have worn off, your doctor will Eat a low-fat, high-fiber diet. tell you the results of your examination and If you use alcohol, drink only in moderaany other important information. tion. If you use tobacco, quit. If you don't use tobacco, don't start. Alcohol and tobacco in combination are linked to colorectal cancer and other Colorectal cancer screening costs gastrointestinal cancers. are covered by Medicare and many Exercise for at least 20 minutes commercial health plans if you are three to four days each week. over the age of 50 or if you have a Moderate exercise such as walking, gardening or climbing steps may strong personal or family history. help. Check with your insurance company Preparing for a colonoscopy - A to find out more. colonoscopy to detect – and possibly remove – cancerous growths or precancerous polyps requires advance planning on your part. Here’s what you need You will also receive instructions about to know. how soon you can eat and drink and guiden Prepare to take time off from work or otherwise alter your plans on the day of your lines for resuming your normal routine. You may experience some minor problems, such procedure. On average, a colonoscopy takes as bloating, gas or mild cramping. But these only 30 minutes. However, you will need to reactions should disappear within 24 hours. rest for the remainder of the day. Also you Be sure to call your doctor directly if you won’t be allowed to drive yourself home afterward. So you will need to make arrange- have questions. ments ahead of time for someone to pick Source: American Cancer Society & you up and take you home. American Gastroenterological Association
RECOVERY
New ICU Visitation Hours
When your loved one is in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Minden Medical Center, the staff understands how overwhelming and stressful it can be. Sometimes a patient’s stay is planned; sometimes it is quite unexpected. Whatever condition or event, ICU patients all require intensive treatment, monitoring and support that is only available in an ICU setting. Visiting hours play an integral role in an ICU for both patients and health care providers. Minden Medical Center recently reviewed their visiting policies and came to a conclusion to extend their ICU visiting hours in order to better meet the surrounding community needs. “Minden Medical Center reached the new visitation hours through a process called Shared Governance,” explains Kathy Davis, RN and Director of ICU/ Step- Down. “We involved frontline staff, physicians and administration in a brainstorming process where suggestions were supported by documented research. The staff felt with the increased size of our ICU and larger rooms that it was time to make changes to further improve our ICU and truly make Minden ICU feel like home for our patients.” “With research on the table for open vs. closed ICU, the ICU staff and physicians came to an agreement that the extended visitation hours would be in the best interest of our patients and community,” Davis said. “We did a 30-day trial and asked visitors to fill out a survey. Local visitors and those that traveled were very excited about the new visiting hours. It gave them more time with their loved one. After the 30-day trial period ALL the feedback received was positive! On occasion we still have to limit visiting hours for certain patients due to various circumstances but we try to accommodate as much as possible.” New extended ICU visitation hours are as follows: 6:00am - 8:00am 12:00pm - 2:00pm 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Each patient is allowed up to 3 visitors (must be over the age of 10) at a time. This will enable your loved one to obtain adequate rest and help with their recovery time. The set times will also allow the staff to ensure your loved one is “always very satisfied” with their care and that their need for rest and privacy is respected.
Health News Spring 2011
Celebrating 15 Years
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Congratulations to WorkFit on Reaching Milestone
MINDEN MEDICAL CENTER’S Occupational Medicine Department began in a broom closet in the Emergency room and offered drug screenings. Fifteen years later, WorkFit, now located at 216 West Union Street offers much more than that. “We have grown by leaps and bounds from where we started out,” said Reed McLendon, field services manager for Work Fit. “We not only offer pre-employment drug screenings and physicals, but we also offer breath alcohol testing, vision and hearing screenings, pulmonary function, fit testing and comprehensive back exams.” These and other services are provided to customers with the utmost attention to providing exceptional customer service. “Customer satisfaction is very important to us,” McLendon explained. “We push good customer service at every point of contact, because we feel if we don’t take good care of these businesses, someone else will. We grow and change as the market grows and changes to meet the needs of our customers.”
The WorkFit Team
For example, WorkFit offers on-site drug and alcohol screenings as well as health fairs and screenings. “We received feedback from customers saying this is something they would be interested in,” he continued. “So we hired more employees, and we
grew to meet that need.” WorkFit’s mobile unit is capable of holding screenings as small or as large as the employer would like. “We can check blood pressure, heart rate, hearing and vision,” McLendon said.“As well as more in-depth exams such as blood work, lipid panels, cholesterol level and medical questionnaires.” The theory is comprehensive medical exams at the work place lead to healthier employees. The healthier an employee, the more productive they will be, causing customer satisfaction to be higher and less days to be missed due to health related reasons. “This baseline screening for employees can equate to better health care premi-
A WEIGHTY MATTER
ums for the employer and can then be passed down to the employee,” McLendon explained. “When you can identify health issues and correct the problem, it is very beneficial to the employer and the employee.” WorkFit is exceptional because it is a full service Occupational clinic right in between Ruston and Bossier City. WorkFit is accessible 24/7, whether at the clinic during normal business hours or through on call personnel at Minden Medical Center’s Emergency room. Join us March 31st from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Minden Community House for our 15th Year Celebration. For more information call 371-5610.
Six Easy Steps to Help You Take Off the Weight
Do you struggle with above normal weight? If so, you are part of the 63.1% of Americans found in the most recent Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index to be overweight or obese. It can be a discouraging struggle, but there are several simple low cost lifestyle changes that, when used, will make a difference. 1. Always eat breakfast. Many weight battlers try to eat only once a day but still gain weight. Multiple studies confirm that eating breakfast increases the metabolic rate so that more calories are burned throughout the day. Breakfast helps one lose weight. (Two meals a day is ideal for most sedentary people.) 2. Drink two cups of water a half hour before any meal and any time you feel hungry between meals. Many mistake thirst for
Health News Spring 2011
hunger. Adequate water intake will decrease the tendency to overeat. 3. Always sit down to eat, chew well and enjoy the food, then stop eating as soon as you’re no longer hungry even if there’s half a plate of food left. Never eat until you feel stuffed. 4. Eat one, just one, handful of nuts each day as part of a meal. Not only do nuts have many health protective qualities, but, eaten in the recommended quantity, they are found to enhance one’s ability to maintain proper weight. 5. Be sure to have plenty of fresh fruits or vegetables at each meal. Allow them to crowd out the foods you know to be high in fats and sugars. 6. If you do not exercise, begin by taking a 10 – 20 minute walk
after meals. Mild exercise of this sort will aid digestion. Put your shoulders back, think happy thoughts, listen to the bird songs, and enjoy the break from the usual. There are many other detailed dietary alterations that can help with weight loss, but if you adopt these six recommendations making them part of your lifestyle, you will experience positive changes. A message from the Irizarry Family Practice Clinic where, in addition to meeting your family medicine needs, consultation with a professional dietitian is available. The clinic is located at #2 Medical Plaza. For appointments call 377-8400.
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Warm Weather is Here and With it Comes Allergies
AROUND MINDEN MEDICAL CENTER
New Physicians
HOW
SURVIVE to
Spring can seem an idyllic time for many, but for allergy sufferers, the season is a sneezing eye-watering ordeal. The good news for those with allergies is that there are ways to find relief from symptoms. Thirty five million Americans fall victim to spring allergies each year with the biggest culprit being airborne pollen from trees, grasses and weeds – the top three springtime allergens in Minden.
Put Pollen in Its Place
The first step in allergy treatment is to avoid allergens. Consider the following methods to keep pollen at bay.
• Shut windows at night and use air conditioning. • Minimize outdoor activities between 5 and 10am, when airborne pollen is at its peak. • Close car windows when driving. • Don’t hang clothing or bedding outside to dry, as pollen cat attach to it. • Check the daily pollen count in local media outlets or visit www.aaaai.org, the web site of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. The course of treatment depends on the severity of an individual’s allergies. For some, a combination of avoiding allergens and taking prescribed antihistamines may do the
trick. Others may benefit from allergy immunotherapy, which involves regular shots that introduce a diluted amount of an allergen into the body to induce the release of symptom blocking antibodies. Allergies should be taken seriously, as they can sometimes trigger other conditions such as asthma. However allergies are also very treatable, so if you experience symptoms, consult a physician to determine an appropriate treatment plan. However, allergies are also very treatable. If you experience symptoms, consult your family physician to determine an appropriate treatment plan.
Dr. Michelle Pittman General Surgery
Dr. Freddy Cordova Family Medicine
Congratulations to the following employees for recently passing their CT Registry.
Congratulations! Dr. M. Adnan Alsaka, M.D., Board Certified in Nephrology, Hypertension and Renal Transplant
Dr. Adnan Alsaka has recently joined more than 85% of practicing specialty physicians in the United States who lead the way in the national movement for healthcare quality. He now offers the following board certified services closer to home: N e p h r o l o g y, Hypertension & Renal Transplant in addition to I n t e r n a l Medicine. Dr. Alsaka’s Alsaka focus is preventing, diagnosing and treating diseases that affect adults. He is specially trained in solving complex diagnostic cases, including kidney diseases, dialysis and organ transplantations. His ultimate goal is to help make patients’ lives easier. Dr.
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Alsaka stated, “The importance of certification is to enhance the quality of healthcare by demonstrating the knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential for excellent patient care.”
Services Offered:
Education Prevention Treatment (with a focus on early and ongoing management)
Dr. Alsaka is accepting new patients at his office, Minden Medicine & Nephrology Center, – Where Healing Begins. Appointments can be made by calling (318) 371-1110. Office Hours: Monday through Friday – 8:00am to 4:30pm Closed Saturday and Sunday
Genny Hasty
Daniel Shidiskis
James Shumake
Lori Zaldivar
Health News Spring 2011
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Minden Medical Center Earns ACR Accreditation in Mammography
MINDEN MEDICAL CENTER’S BREAST CARE CENTER has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in mammography as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology (ACR). The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. It is awarded only to facilities meeting ACR Practice Guidelines and Technical Standards after a peer-review evaluation by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. Image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures, and quality assurance programs are assessed. “When you see the ACR gold seal, you can rest assured that your prescribed imaging test will be done at a facility that has met the highest level of imaging quality and radiation
Way to Go!
safety,” mentioned Angela Brown, Minden Medical Center’s Director of Radiology. “MMC’s Breast Care Center has voluntarily gone through a vigorous review process to ensure that we meet nationallyaccepted standards of care. Our personnel are well qualified, through education and certification, to perform medical imaging, interpret your images, and administer your radiation therapy treatments. Our equipment is appropriate for the test or treatment you will receive, and our facility meets quality assurance and safety guidelines.”
Congratulations to Nancy Towns, left, and Marsha Davis, right. They recently passed their Mammography accreditation.
What is a Mammogram?
Mammography is a specific type of imaging test that uses a low-dose x-ray system to examine breasts. A mammography exam, called a mammogram, is used to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases in women because they can detect changes in the breast that may be early signs of cancer, but are too small or subtle to be felt. Now a new technology called digital mammography shows
most important attribute is its potential to save lives with early detection of breast cancer.
Mammograms are Simple at MMC great promise in the fight against breast cancer. With digital clarity and computer-aided detection, digital mammography is available at Minden Medical Center to help doctors spot abnormalities in most dense breast tissue. Highresolution images appear in seconds on a computer screen, allowing your doctor to zoom in, increase contrast, magnify and optimize areas for precise viewing. With the availability to screen patients in less time than a traditional film-based exam, digital mammography saves time for patients, but clearly its
Depression and Senior Citizens
Question:
My husband is 74 years old and for most of his life has been active, healthy and happy. However, lately he seems to be experiencing some depression. He tells me he’s not feeling depressed or sad but I can notice a change in his personality. He no longer wants to do things we used to enjoy and he is becoming more and more withdrawn. I’ve also noticed that he’s not eating well and has lost some weight recently. It seems as if he’s just given p on life. What can I do to help him? I want to see him happy again.
Answer:
The first step would be to talk honestly with him and let him know that you are concerned over this change and would like to help him. It could be that your husband is suffering from depression; however, it is important to rule out other causes of his symptoms. Suggest that he see his doctor in order to determine if there may be an underlying medical illness contributing to his depressed mood and weight loss. If his doctor rules out
Ask the Doctor WITH DR.
any medical problems he may then need to be screened for depression. If it is determined that his problem is depression, the good news is that depression is highly treatable. Treatment for depression can include medication and also counseling. The medication will help address physical causes of depression such as chemical imbalances. Counseling may also be recommended to help identify and address some of the reasons for his feelings of sadness. Perhaps he is having trouble dealing with the changes growing older brings. Often this combination of medication and counseling is very effective in treating depression. However, some situations require more intensive treatment such as inpatient hospitalization. If he has lost a significant
Health News Spring 2011
KEITH KESSELL
amount of weight or is having any thoughts of dying, his condition may require hospitalization for monitoring of his depression, intensive therapy and medication management. He will need your support to help him through this difficult time. However, with your support and proper medical attention, he can most likely return to the happy, active life he once led.
For more information regarding dementia and obtaining an evaluation, contact MMC Senior Care at 371-5646 or 800244-5505
At Minden Medical Center, getting a mammogram is a simple procedure. It is offered as an outpatient service in the Breast Care Center. The Center is equipped with safe and advanced technology and staffed exclusively by registered women technologists who can show special consideration because they understand your feelings and your need for privacy first hand.
You may call 318-3712166 to schedule your mammogram or visit our website to watch a short video about digital mammography at www.mindenmedicalcenter.com.
Paul Joins MMC Team
Kelly Paul joined the Minden Medical Center family in August of 2010 as a recruiter for human resources. “Being able to use my customer service skills in a family like atmosphere is what enables me to enjoy my job,” Paul said. She has also worked as a flight attendant, teacher and business owner. “Minden Medical Center has a very open and hometown atmosphere all throughout every department,” she said. “Culture and customer service make it so special. I love how willing everyone is to help each other out.” Minden Medical Center offers employees Paul the benefit of working at their “Home away from home” and the opportunity to work at a Top 100 hospital, a title Minden Medical Center has earned twice in the past six years. Paul said that the reason people want to work at Minden Medical Center is because of the values and friendly customer service. “I personally love my job at Minden Medical Center,” she explained. “The people that I work with are great and we all get along. Each day there is something new and different with my job; that is what keeps me going each day.” A few of the positions we are currently seeking include RNs, LPNs and a full time social worker for our Senior Care. Please call me at 371-5627 or visit our website to apply online and view a complete list of career opportunities. Just click on careers.
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Cardiology Phillip Rozeman, MD 102 Monroe Stree, Suite A Minden, LA 71055 (318) 377-3425 Wenwu Zhang, MD, PhD 102 Monroe Stree, Suite A Minden, LA 71055 (318) 631-6400 (800) 856-1100 Dermatology Leslie Turk, MD 817 Sheppard Street Minden, LA 71055 (318) 377-4000
Ears, Nose and Throat Chandra Joshi, MD #3 Medical Plaza Minden, LA 71055 (318) 371-9380
William Parker, MD MMC Clinic (1st Floor) Minden, LA 71055 (318) 798-4565 Jimmy Robinson, MD MMC Clinic (1st Floor) Minden, LA 71055 318-371-4339 Family Medicine Joe Bolger, MD 101 Office Park Drive Minden, LA 71055 (318) 377-7118 Michael Chanler, MD #3 Medical Plaza Minden, LA 71055 (318) 377-7134 Fredy H. Cordova, MD #2 Medical Plaza Minden, LA 71055 (318) 377-6500 Beginning April 2011!
www.mindenmedicalcenter.com
Minden Medical Physicians
Visit us online
Minden Medical Center is delighted to provide you with this list to assist in finding a physician to help with your family’s and your needs. If a physician referral is needed, please call (318) 382-8282. Christopher Earnhardt, MD #3 Medical Plaza Minden, LA 71055 (318) 377-7134 Carlos Irizarry, MD #2 Medical Plaza Minden, LA 71055 (318) 377-8400 Joseph Nida, MD 1111 Homer Road Minden, LA 71055 318-377-7500 Scott Phillips, MD 364 N. Main Sibley, LA 71073 (318) 382-9401
Michael Pistorius, MD 208 Morris Drive Minden, LA 71055 (318) 377-8260 Max Stell, MD 102 Office Park Drive Minden, LA 71055 (318) 377-2885 Martha, Wafer MD 102 Monroe St. Suite B Minden, LA 71055 318-382-4900 General Practice Carl H. Hines, MD 1114 Homer Road Minden, LA 71055 (318) 371-1395
General Surgery Michelle Pittman, MD MMC Clinic (1st Floor) Minden, LA 71055 (318) 675-1322 Erin Soleto, MD 608 Fleming Lane Minden, LA 71055 (318) 382-9020
Colon & Rectal Surgery General Surgery Chad E. Lewis, MD 812 Broadway Minden LA 71055 (318) 377-0010 NEW LOCATION! Hematology/Oncology Joyce Feagin, MD MMC Clinic Minden, LA 71055 (318) 371-4339
Interventional Pain/Spine William Whyte, II, MD #1 Medical Plaza Minden, LA 71055 (318) 861-7246 Internal Medicine Nephrology Adnan Alsaka, MD #2 Medical Plaza Minden, LA 71055 (318) 371-1110
OB/GYN Stephen Coleman, DO 431 Homer Road (318) 377-8855 (877) 244-3851
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Robert H. Russell, MD 431 Homer Road Minden, LA 71055 (318) 377-8855 (877) 244-3851
Amanda Williams, MD 431 Homer Road Minden, LA 71055 (318) 377-8855 (877) 244-3851 Ophthamology Bruce Henderson, MD #2 Medical Plaza Minden, LA 71055 (318) 221-2651 James E. Lusk, MD #3 Medical Plaza Minden, LA 71055 (318) 371-9512 Bryan Lusk, MD #3 Medical Plaza Minden, LA 71055 (318) 222-5555
Orthopaedics Tim Talbert, MD 216 West Union Suite A Minden, LA 71055 (318) 377-4340 Pediatrics Elizabeth Phillips, MD 101 Madison Square Minden, LA 71055 (318) 371-2229
Michael Ulich, MD 607 Fleming Lane Minden, LA 71055 (318) 377-7116 (800) 523-5708
Melinda Willis, MD 600 Factory Outlet Dr., #12 Arcadia, LA 71001 (318) 263-4701 Physiatry Jenness Courtney, MD #1 Medical Plaza Minden, LA 71055 (318) 371-3283 Pulmonology Howard Murray, MD (318) 251-8316 Coming Soon! Psychiatry Keith Kessel, MD #1 Medical Plaza Minden, LA 71055 (318) 371-5646
Urology Stewart Bundrick, MD #2 Medical Plaza Minden, LA 71055 (318) 377-9045 (318) 371-4339
Jim Noble, MD MMC Clinic (First Floor) Minden, LA 71055 (318) 371-4339
JOIN OUR GROUP FOR A SNEAK PEEK of upcoming events screenings. You will also find links to online health awareness articles photos and videos. Minden Medical Center patients and visitors can now access the Internet using their wireless-equipped laptops and other wireless devices to browse the Web, check e-mail, connect with loved ones, and even download entertainment. The entire hospital is now a wireless Internet hot spot. Complimentary wireless internet access is available to visitors who bring personal wireless enabled device(s), laptops etc. Together, these measures are part of a larger commitment at Minden Medical Center to make real-time communication a core component of quality patient care.