BRG VISION SPRING 2017

A Publication for BRG Medical Staff Spring 2017

New Leadership Team

What’s Inside Gastroenterology News 2 New Linear Accelerator 3 Electrophysiology Lab 4 Quality Blue Awards

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Resident Update

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A Satellite Campus of Tulane University School of Medicine

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A Satellite Campus of Tulane University School of Medicine

LETTER FROM THE CMO

Physician Engagement Vital to BRG’s Success Dear Physicians, After practicing at Baton Rouge General for many years and serving as Chief of Staff for the last 6 years, I’m honored to now serve as the hospital’s Chief Medical Officer. I’m proud to be part of a team that continuously demonstrates its focus on quality patient care. Over the last several years, the work of our medical staff and care team has put us at the top of the charts in clinical excellence and quality performance, with an unprecedented 5 years of “A” ratings for patient safety from the Leapfrog Group and three years of #1 rankings for overall medical care from CareChex.

Those accomplishments are directly related to your work in the hospital. I firmly believe that physician input and guidance at every level is vital to the success of Baton Rouge General. The hospital’s Board of Trustees presently has four voting physician members, and the BRG executive team includes three physicians. It’s important to me that we continue to focus on collaboration and quality as we move forward. That’s why I encourage you to participate on one or more of our medical staff committees, where you can provide feedback and become more involved in the hospital’s operations and policies. Medical Executive Committee, for example, includes 15 physician members-at-large, six physician officers, and five ad hoc physician members.

Working together, we can continue to offer the highest quality care to our patients. If you’re interested in getting involved, or have feedback and ideas, please feel free to email me at andrew.olinde@brgeneral.org.

Thank you for your dedication, your continued collaboration, and your support in 2017.

Andrew Olinde, MD BRG Chief Medical Officer

JOINING FORCES

BRG Partners with Gastroenterology Associates Thanks to a new partnership between the hospital and Gastroenterology Associates (GA), LLC, patients now have expanded accessibility to GI services. The Baton Rouge General Gastroenterology Center, which opened January 9, provides enhanced coordination among providers, and increased convenience and satisfaction for patients with digestive disorders.

“Partnering with providers who share our commitment to creating exceptional experiences is critical,” said Dr. Kenny Cole, Chief Clinical Transformation Officer. “Across the country, these types of agreements have been proven to improve care quality and health outcomes.”

Dr. Oleana Lamendola and Dr. Kimberly Dalmau provide quality GI care at the new Gastroenterology Associates location on Perkins Road.

The Gastroenterology Center handles clinic appointments, labs, EKGs, surgery prep and outpatient surgery — all under one roof. To refer a patient, call (225) 819-1190.

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PRECISE TREATMENT

Linear Accelerator: Faster, More Precise Treatment

Cancer patients with tumors of the lung, breast, abdomen, head and neck, are receiving radiotherapy treatments that are more personalized than ever before. The hospital’s new TrueBeam™ linear accelerator gives patients the option to be treated in just a few minutes a day, with a 25% smaller X-ray dosage than with previous options. The device quickly and accurately targets tumors that move, leading to shorter treatment times and allowing for more comfort during treatments.

“The TrueBeam™ linear accelerator adds to our already robust cancer program,” said Dr. William Russell, BRG Radiation Oncology Medical Director. “By providing patients with the highest level of care right here in Baton Rouge, they can be treated near their homes, with their loved ones nearby instead of having to travel.”

To refer patients, call (225) 763-4300.

SPECIALTY SCREENING

L-Dex Screening Tool Helps Identify Lymphedema Physicians at BRG are using the L-Dex (lymphedema index) to assess and treat patients with lymphedema. The L-Dex is a spectroscopy device that measures and monitors the fluid content in the limbs. As fluid accumulates, the L-Dex value increases, and the corresponding number helps track lymphedema progression over time. The device is easy to use, and provides a non-invasive, quick and cost-effective measurement.

Dr. William Russell of the Pennington Cancer Center has used the L-Dex with his patients.

“It’s very difficult to sort out routine post-surgical edema of the arm from true lymphedema in women who have undergone axillary surgery,” he said. “This new technology allows us to identify women with any cause of swelling of the extremity and hopefully, intervene before true lymphedema occurs. It can be used by nurses and therapists to provide early detection.”

BRG has two lymphedema rehabilitation specialists who work with patients individually to promote optimal recovery, both physically and psychologically. The hospital also offers a lymphedema support group and an exercise class called Healthy Steps for breast cancer survivors. For more information, call Chris Perkins, LOTR, at (225) 763-4243.

“This new technology allows us to identify women with any cause of swelling…and hopefully, intervene before true lymphedema occurs.”

– Dr. William Russell, Pennington Cancer Center

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A Satellite Campus of Tulane University School of Medicine

CAPITAL CAMPAIGN

RISE Campaign Supports New Critical Care Tower Each year, BRG’s Regional Burn Center treats nearly 1,000 patients with burn injuries. About 100 of those patients are the victims of industrial accidents, such as the ExxonMobil explosion that occurred last November, injuring four refinery workers.

Opened in 1970, the Regional Burn Center is one of only 125 specialized burn centers in the country. It has provided treatment to adult and pediatric patients from more than 150 zip codes in the country.

BRG’s Regional Burn Center is the only comprehensive burn facility in a 250-mile radius.

The BRG Foundation has launched a 3-year capital campaign to raise $20 million to expand the Critical Care Tower at Bluebonnet with two floors that will be dedicated to the Regional Burn Center.

(Until last April, the Regional Burn Center was housed on the Mid City campus.) Expansion plans include a 14-bed unit with a dedicated ER, helipad, surgical suite, rehab space, and family and visitor overnight accommodations.

EXPANSION

Electrophysiology Lab Expands Cardio Services Since September, BRG and Cardiovascular Institute of the South have worked together to provide expanded cardiology services in the new Electrophysiology (EP) Lab at Bluebonnet. A wide variety of procedures are being performed, including those to help patients with abnormal heart rhythms. EP studies are helping physicians determine whether patients need medicine, a pacemaker, a defibrillator, cardiac ablation or other procedure.

For the last several years, BRG’s heart program has been bringing cardiac and vascular services together under one roof, and the new lab is furthering our all-inclusive cardiac and vascular efforts. Procedures that can be performed in the multi-purpose space range from atrial fibrillation ablations and atrial flutter ablations to vascular interventional procedures.

“We are seeing about 10 cases per month when we had anticipated about four,” said Ben Schuler, Cath Lab Director. “We’re really happy with the Lab’s success and how it has exceeded our expectations.”

Electrophysiologist Dr. Robert Drennan has joined CIS to lead the program. A graduate of the University of South Carolina, Tulane and LSU, Dr. Drennan is trained in both cardiology and electrophysiology.

Pictured at the EP Lab opening are (from left): Amit Patel, MD, Cardiovascular Institute of the South; Lance LaMotte, MD, FACC, Baton Rouge Cardiology Center; Kenny Cole, MD, BRG Chief Clinical Transformation Officer; Stephen Mumford, BRG Vice President, Clinical Service Lines; Robert Drennan, MD, Cardiovascular Institute of the South; and Ben Schuler, RN, Cath Lab Director.

BRG’s expert cardiovascular teams offer revolutionary treatment, technology and services, and the hospital is recognized as:

• #1 in Louisiana for Heart Failure Treatment – CareChex, 2015, 2016, 2017

• #1 in Louisiana for Heart Attack Treatment – CareChex, 2015, 2016

• #1 in Greater Baton Rouge for Vascular Surgery – CareChex, 2015

• 5-star rated for Treatment of Heart Failure – HealthGrades, 2015, 2016

• #1 in Greater Baton Rouge for Stroke Care – CareChex, 2016

For more information about BRG’s cardiology program, call (225) 819-1161 or email heart@brgeneral.org.

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A Satellite Campus of Tulane University School of Medicine

QUALITY BLUE

Bringing Out the Best B

aton Rouge General has ushered in a new leadership team that has been taking shape over the last few months. In October, Monica Nijoka was named Chief Nursing Officer. In January, Dr. Andrew Olinde was named Chief Medical Officer and Dr. Louis Minsky was named Chief of Staff. On February 13, Edgardo Tenreiro officially became BRG’s Chief Executive Officer.

Baton Rouge General is a full-service health system with exciting programs and services routinely emerging, such as our Electrophysiology Lab, linear accelerator and hematology/oncology partnership. With our new leadership team in place, we will continue to create innovative ways to care for our community.

In addition to the technological advances, new partnerships, and new ways to deliver healthcare, one element remains the same — the daily focus on quality patient care. It reveals itself through the kindness, compassion and integrity of our team. This attitude strengthens us and allows us to always perform at the highest level, bringing out the best in all of us.

Happy Doctors ’ Day! Baton Rouge General is fortunate to have such a talented and gifted medical staff. To show our appreciation, please mark your calendar on Thursday, March 30 — Doctors’ Day! Physicians are invited to a special lunch on both campuses from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. And be sure to pick up your free Benny’s car wash coupon, a small token of our thanks. Stay tuned to email and MD News as well, for details on the second annual Doctors’ Day Superlative Contest.

Primary Care Top Performers

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana recognized the Top Performers for 2016 at a recognition ceremony last October. Of the 53 Baton Rouge-area physicians recognized, 36 percent were Baton Rouge General physicians.

Dr. Timothy Bella’s Family Medicine Clinic was recognized for having the highest overall score on the program’s clinical quality measures for treating chronic kidney disease, and was awarded Highest Achievement in Kidney Care 2016. In addition, Dr. Brad Gaspard was honored for his scores in all four targeted conditions – diabetes, hypertension, vascular disease, and chronic kidney disease. He was the only Baton Rouge physician to achieve top scores in all areas.

“We are extremely proud of our physicians and staff as they continue to identify ways to improve the health of our community through education, prevention and timely access to quality care,” said Jeremy Rogers, COO of BRGP. “These honors reflect our staff’s dedication to our mission of creating exceptional experiences and value for the people we serve through health and healing.”

Many of our BRG physicians contributed to this achievement. They include: (from Baton Rouge Family Medical Center) Dr. Brad Gaspard, Dr. Stephen McCulloh, Dr. Lauren Moore, Dr. Kenyatta Shamlin, Dr. Tasha Shamlin, Dr. Robert Wood, Dr. Michael Yorek; (from BRGP Group) Dr. Andrea Brown, Dr. April McCulloh, Dr. Philip Padgett, Dr. Gunjan Raina, Dr. Akayla Robinson, Dr. Desi Valentine, Dr. Henry Young; (from Family Health Center) Dr. Vincent Shaw; (from Medical Associates of BR) Dr. Tarisha Mixon; (from Oak Grove Family Practice) Dr. Vincent Nguyen; and (from Westside Family Medicine) Dr. Brian Higgins.

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A Satellite Campus of Tulane University School of Medicine

FOR YOUR PATIENTS

Did You Know About That?

Baton Rouge General offers many programs and services designed to complement a patient’s medical treatment, and you might be surprised to learn about some of them. If your patients could benefit from some of these services, feel free to call the number provided for details.

Weight Management Programs – A certified fitness trainer

and dietitian will meet with patients to discuss a wide range of options.

(225) 819-1175 Arts in Medicine – The staff

includes artists, musicians and an oral historian, all eager to share their artistic talents with patients, something that has been shown to promote physical healing and recovery. (225) 387-7040

Health Risk Assessments – Patients can complete an online

Cancer Navigator –

health risk assessment for breast cancer, diabetes, colon cancer or cardiac health. This information stresses the importance of a healthy lifestyle and regular visits to the doctor. (brgeneral.org)

Our cancer navigation program has helped more than 2,000 patients on their cancer journeys, offering support and encouragement during treatment and recovery.

(225) 387-7280

Lunch and Learn Seminars – We provide a simple meal in

Fitness Classes – BRG Fit!, the hospital’s employee wellness program, offers classes in yoga, barre, core training, boot camp and more. Classes are conveniently offered on both campuses during daytime and evening hours. (225) 237-1767 Diabetes Education – A certified diabetes educator meets with

patients to discuss ways to manage their weight, monitor blood glucose, eat healthy and prevent complications. (225) 819-1175 Birth Center Tours –

If you’re expecting a baby, be sure to register for one of our Birth Center tours.

You’ll see our spacious mother/baby suites and meet our caring staff members. (225) 763-4141

a casual setting as our team of healthcare experts discuss a variety of topics — cancer, diabetes, exercise, surgical techniques, and heart health, just to name a few.

We’d love to have you as a speaker!

(225) 763-4280

Support Groups – The hospital offers support groups for breast

cancer, prostate cancer, stroke, weight loss and other conditions. (brgeneral.org/inthecommunity/supportgroups)

Smoking Cessation – This 5-week program is offered bi-monthly

and gives participants the tools to kick the habit for good.

(225) 387-7848

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A Satellite Campus of Tulane University School of Medicine

MEDICAL EDUCATION

Resident Earns ‘Dream’ Fellowship Kelly Jensen is living out a childhood dream — studying medicine in South America. Jensen, a member of Tulane’s LEAD program, received a FulbrightFogarty Fellowship that allows her to spend nine months doing public health research in Peru under the guidance of Dr. Robert Gilman from Johns Hopkins University.

Kelly Jensen is spending nine months in Peru doing public health research.

“I’m honored to have this opportunity,” she said. “I’m looking forward to the chance to apply the knowledge I have learned during medical school and at Baton Rouge General, to the work I’ll be doing in Peru.”

“This is indeed a great achievement for Kelly and will generate experiences and memories that will last a lifetime,” said Dr. Robert Kenney, Regional Dean, Tulane Campus at Baton Rouge, and VP of Medical Operations at BRG. “We are very proud of her accomplishments.”

Congratulations, Class of 2016!

Surrounded by family and friends, nine family medicine residents received their residency diplomas on June 18 at the Lod Cook Alumni Center in Baton Rouge. Remarkably, the group achieved a 100% passage rate on their board exams in April, and are therefore all Board Certified Family Physicians. Congratulations to Bryan Picou, Jr., MD; Zachary Pray, MD; Smita Prasad, MD; Michelle Duhe, MD; Sunitha Korapati, MD; Jennifer Winchester, MD; Clayton Runfalo, MD; Daniel McMahon, MD; and Shawn Skarpnes, MD.

Physicians in the News

Dr. Amanda Watts was interviewed by The Advocate and WAFB-TV during a visit to Bernard Terrace Elementary School on February 16. Through a sponsorship with the American Heart Association, BRG helped students create a “teaching garden,” which will be harvested in the spring.

Kenny Cole, Chief Transformation Officer, was featured in The Advocate in January for an article on the increase in flu cases this year, and the importance of getting a flu shot.

Baton Rouge Area Foundation interviewed Dr. Ernest Mencer for a story in its quarterly newsletter Currents. Dr. Mencer discussed how the hospital’s Regional Burn Center has affected thousands of people in the Gulf Coast region.

Business Report’s What’s New in Healthcare featured Dr. Louis Minsky in a cover story about concierge medicine. Dr. Minsky discussed his MDVIP practice and how it benefits both patients and physicians.

The Louisiana Hospital Association featured Dr. Akayla Robinson and her patient Morgan Mancuso in a story on the medical impact of BRG’s Arts in Medicine program.

In December, The Advocate interviewed cardiologist Dr. Amit Patel for a story on the similarities between heartburn symptoms and actual heart attack.

WBRZ-TV interviewed Dr. Shaun Carpenter in a story on the BRG Wound Care Center, which was nationally recognized by Organogenesis for its innovative hyperbaric care. Physicians from across the country visit BRG to learn more about state-of-the-art practices and procedures.

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New Beginnings

BRGP has opened a new OB/Gyn clinic at Mid City, headed by Dr. Alicia Taylor.

Dr. Taylor’s practice will address the shortage of women’s health specialists in the Mid City area. “With so many families in Mid City and North Baton Rouge, we have a great opportunity to help bring more services to the area, including reproductive health, pregnancy care, and treatment for endometriosis and osteoporosis,” Dr. Taylor said.

Etcetera…

BRG Named Bariatric Center of Excellence In January, BRG gained accreditation as a Bariatric Center of Excellence from the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP), which works to advance safe, high-quality care for inpatient and outpatient weight loss surgery patients in the U.S. and Canada. Organizations achieve this status by following a rigorous review process with proof of maintaining specific physical and human resources, as well as standards of practice. BRG’s weight management and weight loss options include bariatric surgery and non-surgical, medically supervised nutrition counseling and weight loss programs.

The Eye and Retina Center of Baton Rouge, headed by Dr. Jamie Hatcher, opened on the Bluebonnet campus in the fall. Dr. Hatcher is an eye disease specialist who treats conditions that affect the retina, macula and vitreous.

General surgeon Dr. Victoria Lee joined BRGP/BRG Orthopedic Associates and Surgical Associates in the fall. She performs a variety of surgeries, including gall bladder, hernia, breast cancer and gastrointestinal procedures.

OFFICERS

Chief of Staff Louis Minsky, MD

Chair of Medical Services S. Raju Vatsavai, MD

Vice Chief of Staff Jeffrey Littleton, MD

Chair of Surgical Services Glen Schwartzberg, MD

May 25, June 13 and 15, July 11 and 13 Bluebonnet campus The BRG Foundation offers ongoing missionbased tours that take visitors through several areas of the hospital, including Pennington Cancer Center, Arts in Medicine, the Regional Burn Center, and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. At each stop, a patient or clinician will share a story about the department’s programs and services. Tours take place at various times and locations. To schedule a tour, call Jane Dunn at (225) 763-4831.

Music Therapy Helps Pulmonary Patients

Patients with a known or suspected concussion can now receive baseline testing and ongoing therapy in the hospital’s new concussion rehab program. With a physician request, a physical therapist will complete a post-injury test to help the physician determine if/when the patient can return to his prior level of functioning. Therapists can also develop an effective rehab treatment plan. The program is appropriate for athletes with sports injuries, or victims of motor vehicle collisions, physical abuse, falls or head injuries. If you would like to know about the program, or refer a patient, contact Geri Sutton, Outpatient Clinical Coordinator, at (225) 381-6106.

Music has a way of making things better… even a stay in the hospital. BRG recently implemented a music therapy program designed for patients with asthma, cystic fibrosis, and other pulmonary diseases. The therapy includes breath-enhancing musical exercises that will help reduce stress and improve voice and respiratory strength. This includes singing and playing the harmonica, recorder, slide whistle and melodica. If you have a patient who might benefit from this program, call (225) 237-7040.

You can also request music therapy through order management. A qualified music therapist will be able to provide the appropriate treatment, depending on the patient’s strengths, physical needs and motivation level.

MEMBERS AT LARGE

Secretary of Staff Michael Dunn II, MD

Ambassador Hospital Tours

Physicians Can Refer to Concussion Rehab Program

Comments? Story ideas?

Email us at Lisa.Tramontana@brgeneral.org

Medical Executive Committee January 2016 – December 2017 Chief Medical Officer Andrew Olinde, MD

Behind The Scenes

Roy Culotta, MD J. Benton Dupont, Sr., MD Tonya Eichelberger, MD Marci Fabre, MD Adam Grezaffi, MD Joseph Griffin, MD Douglas Hanks, MD Niels Linschoten, MD AD HOC MEMBERS

Venkat Banda, MD John Jones, MD

Christopher McCanless, MD Nakia Newsome, MD Jones Samuel, MD Vasudev Tati, MD Amit Patel, MD Mark Posner, MD Jonathan Taylor, MD

Robert Miller, MD William Russell, MD

VIS1ON Editorial Committee Dr. Andrew Olinde Chief Medical Officer Robert Kenney, MD Vice President, Medical Operations Michelle Capone Director, Medical Staff Services

Meghan Parrish Director, Marketing and Communications Lisa Tramontana Marketing and Communications Specialist