Touching Lives - Fall 2022

Taking New Paths on the Trishaw Bike

Getting outdoors connects our residents with nature and our community. page 10

GlenFields TMA Ruth Wagner takes GlenFields resident Jan and her mother for a trishaw bike ride.

It is not easy to say goodbye to an organization like Glencoe Regional Health. I have been honored and humbled to work with this group of committed, resilient, and compassionate people. Much of my CEO tenure has been guiding our organization through a global pandemic, and though it hasn’t been easy for any, I’ve often been left in awe of how professionally and compassionately our staff have weathered the storm and served our mission.

My husband, Curt, and I have been planning to retire simultaneously, so we can enjoy spoiling our grandchildren together, caring for our loved ones in the area, and spending some time traveling with one another. We are looking forward to entering this next chapter of our lives together.

I am very proud of the impact our organization makes in our community – each person has such a powerful hand in caring for the needs of our patients, residents, and tenants. I could not be more grateful to have had the opportunity to work in service alongside these amazing people. I look forward to continuing to make a positive impact on the health of our community with this team in the remaining months of my career with GRH.

What’s next for GRH:

Our Board of Directors and senior leadership are working with a recruiting firm to identify candidates who align with our mission here at GRH: to improve every life by offering highquality, safe, and accessible healthcare. Their goal is to have a new leader in place prior to my retirement, which will allow me and our new CEO some time to overlap as they transition into their new role.

GRATULATIONS

I am certain the next CEO of GRH will find it just as much of a wonderful, fulfilling place to serve as I have. The people who comprise this organization are incredible – and I will miss each and every one of them.

Goodbyes and reflections will come closer to springtime, but for now, let me simply say thank you for the incredible years of service I have been honored to be part of this community.

Sincerely,

Patty Henderson, MBA, BSN President & CEO

“Regional Health, it is bittersweet to share that I’m planning to retire in May 2023.”

Care & Services

MEDICAL SERVICES

Acute Care

Allergy Medicine

Anticoagulation Clinic

Audiology

Birth Center

Cardiac Rehabilitation

Cardiology

Diabetic Care & Education

Ear, Nose, & Throat

Emergency Department

Family Medicine

Hematology

Hospitalists

Infusion Services

Internal Medicine

Laboratory

Medical Imaging

Mental Health

Midwife

Nephrology

Neurology

OB/GYN

Occupational Therapy

Oncology

Orthopedics

Pain Management

Pediatrics

Physical Therapy

Podiatry

Preventive Health

Pulmonology

Respiratory Therapy

Sleep Medicine

Speech-Language Therapy

Surgery

Transitional Care

Urgent Care

Urology

Wound Care

SKILLED NURSING CARE

GlenFields Living with Care

SENIOR LIVING

Orchard Estates

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STELLATE GANGLION BLOCK

A procedure restores lost senses of taste and smell for some post-COVID patients.

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MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

Meet the team of mental health providers serving at GRH.

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MEET KENNETH SMITH, MD, PhD

Our new urologist, Dr. Smith, is looking forward to serving our community.

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MEET MATTHEW COPPLE, DO

Our orthopedics team expands with the arrival of Dr. Copple.

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HELPING HANDS GARDEN

After a summer of watering and weeding, our team harvested their garden.

MANAGING EDITORS

Ana Alexander

Lynn Beranek

Stephanie Beste

Jill Hatlestad

Denise Lemke

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GLENFIELDS TRISHAW BIKE

Our trishaw bike brings residents a new way to enjoy the outdoors.

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MEET AMANDA J. SCHROEDER, MD

Dr. Schroeder brings a passion for sports medicine to our team.

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CHOOSING YOUR LEVEL OF CARE

Learn the differences between the Emergency Department, Urgent Care, and our clinic.

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CARE FOR THE BEST BEGINNINGS

Our birth center team helps families have the best beginnings.

PUBLISHER

Glencoe Regional Health 1805 Hennepin Avenue North Glencoe, MN 55336

INJECTING HOPE

STELLATE GANGLION BLOCKS return senses of taste and smell for some post-COVID patients.

SMELL AND TASTE ALTERED

When Amy Dittmer took a bite of her breakfast on November 16, 2020, she knew something wasn’t right.

“I couldn’t taste anything, and then I realized I couldn’t smell either,” said Amy. Amy tested positive for COVID-19, and for the next 17 months, her smell and taste were gone or altered. At first, both senses were lost, but after one month, the loss of smell was replaced with the constant smell of cigarette smoke.

“I don’t smoke, and I’m not around anyone who smokes, but the smell was nonstop,” Amy said. “It would last for a week or two, and then I wouldn’t smell anything again.”

Her experience with the return of taste was equally unpleasant – fruit tasted rotten, dairy tasted spoiled, and carbs and sugar tasted “how Windex smells.”

“It totally messes with your mind,” said Amy. “You feel like you have no idea what you’re eating or drinking. It takes the pleasure out of a lot of things. I felt like a completely different person.”

After a full year passed for Amy, it was hard to remain hopeful.

“I gave up,” Amy said. “I really thought it was never coming back.”

Then, she heard about a potential solution from Kelly Mickolichek, who also lost her senses of taste and smell to COVID-19. Both were returned after she received a stellate ganglion block from Board-Certified Pain Management Specialist, Joslin Thiemann, APRN, CRNA, NSPM-C Kelly’s Story

Kelly tested positive for COVID-19 on December 4, 2020, and was without her regular senses of taste or smell for 15 months. Just like Amy had, Kelly lost her senses of taste and smell completely at first, but then both senses returned sporadically in odd ways.

“Things smelled and tasted like an electric shock for two months,” Kelly said. “Then it went away, but once a week I’d experience a constant, gross smell – anything from boiled hot dogs to foul body odor.”

Kelly’s first experience with parosmia, a distortion in the sense of smell, lasted

a week, during which she continually smelled the scent of dog feces.

“I didn’t know parosmia was a side effect of COVID-19 at the time, and I just thought I was crazy,” Kelly said. “I felt paranoid and was checking my shoes and my co-workers’ shoes the first day, thinking someone stepped in something. Then it lasted the entire week.”

Kelly is an avid baker, and one day while baking, she accidentally started a small fire in her kitchen.

“I couldn’t smell the smoke – I didn’t know there was a fire until the fire detector went off,” said Kelly. “It scared me, so I began setting five timers every time I cooked or baked.”

After a year, Kelly thought her taste and smell would never return. But then she heard about stellate ganglion blocks.

Amy Dittmer & Family

We’re committed to serving the needs of our community by having two interpreters on site – read this article in Spanish on the following pages, or visit our website to learn more: grhsonline.org/interpretive-services

Estamos comprometidos a satisfacer las necesidades de nuestra comunidad al tener dos intérpretes, obtenga más información en: grhsonline.org/interpretive-services

UNBLOCKING THE SENSES

Starting in the 1930s, stellate ganglion blocks have been in use far before COVID-19 and are often used for issues such as chronic pain, anxiety, and PTSD. While scientists do not yet fully understand why some patients lose their senses of smell or taste to COVID-19, the stellate ganglion block has been found to be roughly 80 percent effective in returning patients’ senses.

During the procedure, Joslin numbs the injection site and injects the steroid into the stellate ganglion nerve, located in the neck. She uses an ultrasound to locate the appropriate site and guide the needle. While the block doesn’t work for everyone, taste and smell are often returned quickly for those who have success with it.

“While they were cleaning up, I could smell the lemonscented wipes. Right away, I began to cry,” said Kelly. “Then I had Joslin crying, and then the whole room crying. It was an emotional experience.”

Just as Kelly experienced, Amy could smell the lemon cleaner immediately after her injection.

“I wanted to know if my taste was back, too, so Joslin brought me a container of peanut butter. I’ve never been happier to taste peanut butter in my life,” Amy laughed. “I don’t even like peanut butter, but it was amazing to taste again.”

In addition to returning their senses of taste and smell, both Kelly and Amy reported that the block ended the extreme fatigue and foggy minds they’d experienced post-COVID.

While both Amy and Kelly agreed the procedure had less discomfort than a flu shot, both experienced the expected temporary side effects of the block. For less than thirty minutes after the procedure, Kelly had facial drooping on the side of the injection, and Amy had a flushed face, facial drooping, and a temporary change in the pitch of her voice, which all resolved in less than thirty minutes.

“Joslin was thorough in describing exactly what to expect, so I wasn’t worried,” Amy said. “She told me that experiencing those side effects was actually a good thing – it was a signal the block had hit the right spot and was working.”

Senses of Normalcy

After her procedure, Kelly was excited to bake again. She went home and baked banana bread, relishing in the warm smells filling her home. She was also excited to attend her son’s hockey games.

“The ice at the hockey rink has a unique smell that I missed in a nostalgic way,” said Kelly. “We’re a hockey family, so I really looked forward to going to my son’s hockey game and feeling like I could experience all of it. You don’t realize how much you miss out on just by not being able to smell, even with little things.”

Amy was excited to be able to taste again, so she went to El Loro for lunch after her block.

“After one and a half years, guacamole was so amazing,” said Amy. “Later, I ate a cookie and watermelon – I wanted to clear the rotten fruit and Windex memories out of my head.”

Amy is looking forward to her family’s Christmas cookie baking day tradition this year, which hasn’t been quite the same without a sense of taste or smell.

“Just getting back to normal has been so satisfying – to know that COVID didn’t win,” said Amy. “I think people need to know that if they lost their sense of taste or smell, it’s not just them. It’s more common than you may think, and if you’ve lost either sense – you are not alone.”

If you’ve experienced loss of taste and smell due to COVID-19 and are interested in the stellate ganglion block procedure, schedule a consultation with Joslin by calling us at 320-864-3121.

While stellate ganglion blocks have been in use for many years, they are not currently FDA-approved for post-COVID treatment. Trials are underway to reach FDAapproval, but until then, insurance companies may not cover the procedure. With questions about insurance coverage, please reach out to our Business Services Office at 320-864-7780.

Kelly Mickolichek & Son

Joslin Thiemann APRN, CRNA, NSPM-C Board-Certified Pain Management Specialist

INYECTANDO ESPERANZA

EL SENTIDO DEL OLFATO Y EL GUSTO ALTERADOS

Cuando Amy Dittmer comenzó a desayunar el día 16 de noviembre del 2020, se dio cuenta que algo no estaba bien.

“Nada tenía sabor, y después me di cuenta de que no podía oler nada tampoco” dijo Amy.

Amy tuvo un resultado positivo al test COVID-19, y por 17 meses el olfato y el gusto estuvo alterado. Al principio perdió ambos sentidos, pero después de un mes, la pérdida del sentido del olfato fue reemplazada por un olor constante a humo de cigarrillo.

“Yo no fumo, y no estoy alrededor a gente que fume, pero el olor era constante, “dijo Amy. “Duraba por una semana o dos, y después no podía oler nada otra vez.”

“Te confunde tu mente totalmente,” dice Amy. “Sientes como que no tienes idea lo que comes o tomas. Te quita el placer de disfrutar muchas cosas. Me siento una persona completamente diferente”.

Su experiencia cuando recuperó el gusto fue igualmente desagradable – la fruta sabia a podrido, los lácteos tenían gusto a echada a perder, y los carbohidratos y el azúcar sabían como huele el Windex”.

Después que pasó un año para Amy, era difícil permanecer esperanzada.

“Me rindo, dijo Amy. “La verdad pensé que no iba a recuperarlos,” Luego, se enteró sobre una solución potencial. Kelly Mickolichek también había perdido el gusto y el olfato debido a COVID-19, pero había recuperado ambos después que recibió un bloqueo del ganglio estrellado, realizado por la Especialista Certificada en dolor de GRH, Joslin Thiemann, CRNA, MS

La Historia de Kelly

Kelly fue COVID-19 positivo el 4 de diciembre del 2020, y estuvo 15 meses sin el sentido regular del gusto y el olfato. Igual que Amy, Kelly perdió el gusto y el olfato completamente al principio. Lo mismo que Amy, Kelly perdió el gusto y el olfato completamente al principio, pero ambos sentidos volvieron esporádicamente en forma extraña.

“Algunas cosas olían o sabían como un shock eléctrico por dos meses,” dijo Kelly. “Luego se fue, pero una vez a la

semana experimentaba un olor horrible constantemente, como salchichas hervidas a olor corporal.”

La primera experiencia de Kelly con lo llamado parosmia, una distorsión del sentido del olfato duró una semana, durante la cual olía continuamente a excremento de perro.

“No sabía que parosmia era un efecto secundario del COVID-19, y pensé que estaba loca,” dijo Kelly. “Me sentí paranoica y estaba chequeando mis zapatos y los de mi compañeros de trabajo el primer día, pensando que alguien pisó algo Esto duró una semana completa.”

Kelly es una ávida repostera, y un día mientras estaba cocinando, accidentalmente algo se prendió fuego en su cocina.

“No pude oler el humo- No sabía que se estaba incendiando cuando la alarma comenzó a sonar.”

dijo Kelly. Me asustó, entonces comencé a poner cinco cronómetros cada vez que cocinaba u horneaba.

Después de un año, Kelly pensaba que el gusto y el olfato nunca volverían. Pero luego se enteró acerca del bloqueo del ganglio estrellado.

EL BLOQUEO DEL GANGLIO ESTRELLADO devuelve a los pacientes que tuvieron COVID el sentido del gusto y del olfato.

Estamos comprometidos a satisfacer las necesidades de nuestra comunidad al tener dos intérpretes, obtenga más información en grhsonline.org/interpretive-services

DE SENTIDOS

Habiéndose utilizado desde la década de 1930, los bloqueos de ganglios se han utilizado mucho antes del COVID-19 y a menudo se usan para problemas como dolor crónico, la ansiedad y el TEPT (Trastorno de Estrés Postraumático).

Si bien los científicos aun no entienden por qué algunos pacientes pierden el sentido del olfato o del gusto debido al COVID-19, se ha descubierto que el bloqueo del ganglio estrellado tiene aproximadamente un 80 por ciento de efectividad para devolver los sentidos a los pacientes.

Durante el procedimiento, Joslin limpia el cuello del paciente y adormece el lugar de la inyección y luego inyecta el esteroide en el nervio del ganglio estrellado. Ella usa un ultrasonido para ubicar el sitio apropiado y para guiar la aguja del procedimiento. Si bien el bloqueo no funciona para todos, el gusto y el olfato a menudo se recupera rápidamente para aquellos que tienen éxito con él.

“Mientras limpiaban podía oler las toallitas de limón, de inmediato, comencé a llorar”, dijo Kelly. “Luego Joslin también lloraba, y todos en la habitación lloraban igual. Fue una experiencia emocional”.

Tal como lo experimento Kelly, Amy podía oler el limpiador de limón después de su inyección.

“Quería saber si también había recuperado mi gusto, así que Joslin me trajo un recipiente de crema de cacahuate. Nunca había estado tan feliz de probar la crema de cacahuate en mi vida”, se rio Amy. “Ni siquiera me gustaba la crema de cacahuate, pero fue increíble volver a probarla”.

Además de devolverles los sentidos del gusto y olfato, tanto Kelly como Amy informaron que el bloqueo acabó con la fatiga extrema y la mente confusa que habían experimentado después del COVID.

Si bien tanto Amy como Kelly estuvieron de acuerdo en el procedimiento, este produjo menos molestias que una vacuna contra la gripe, ambas experimentaron los efectos secundarios temporales esperados del bloqueo. Durante menos de treinta minutos después del procedimiento, Kelly tenía la cara caída del lado de la inyección y Amy tenía la cara enrojecida, la cara caída y un cambio temporal en el tono de su voz.

“Joslin fue exacta al describir qué esperar, así que no estaba preocupada”, dijo Amy. “Me dijo que experimentar estos efectos secundarios en realidad era algo bueno: era una señal de que el bloqueo había dado en el lugar correcto y estaba funcionando”.

Sentidos de Normalidad

Después de su procedimiento, Kelly estaba emocionada de volver a hornear. Se fue a casa y horneo pan de plátano, disfrutando de los cálidos olores que llenaban su hogar. También estaba emocionada de asistir a los juegos de hockey de su hijo.

“El hielo en la pista de hockey tiene un olor único que extrañaba de forma nostálgica”, dijo Kelly “Somos una familia de hockey, así que tenía muchas ganas de ir al partido de hockey de mi hijo y sentir que podía experimentarlo todo. No te das cuenta de lo mucho que te pierdes por no poder oler, incluso con pequeñas cosas”.

Amy estaba emocionada de poder sentir el sabor así que fue a El Loro después de su bloqueo.

“Después de un año y medio, el guacamole era increíble”, dijo Amy. “También comí una galleta y una sandía; quería borrar los recuerdos de la fruta podrida y del Windex de mi cabeza”. Amy espera con ansias la tradición del día de hornear galletas navideñas con su familia este año, que no ha sido lo mismo sin el sentido del gusto o el olfato.

“Volver a la normalidad ha sido muy satisfactorio, saber que el COVID no ganó” dijo Amy. “Creo que las personas deben saber que, si perdieron el sentido del gusto o el olfato, no son solo ellos. Es más común de lo que piensas, si perdiste cualquiera de los dos sentidos, no estás solo”.

Si ha perdido el gusto y el olfato debido al COVID-19 y está interesado en el procedimiento de bloqueo del ganglio estrellado, programe una consulta con Joslin llamándonos al 320-864-3121.

Si bien los bloqueos del ganglio estrellado se han utilizado durante muchos años, actualmente no están aprobados por la FDA para el tratamiento posterior a la COVID-19. Se están realizando ensayos para obtener la aprobación de la FDA, pero hasta entonces, es posible que las compañías de seguros no cubran el procedimiento. Si tiene preguntas sobre la cobertura del seguro, comuníquese con nuestra Oficina de servicios comerciales al 320-864-7780.

Amy Dittmer y su familia

Kelly Mickolichek y su hijo

Mental Health Services at GRH

If you struggle with mental health, you are not alone. If you’re ready to talk with someone, our GRH providers can refer you to one of our mental health providers. Meet them below!

Karen Chinnock

PhD, LP

Licensed Psychologist Psychotherapy

Sees ages 18+

Dr. Chinnock is passionate about working with patients across the lifespan to offer support for those struggling with mood difficulty, intimate partner violence, anger management, interpersonal communication, and health behavior change. With a strong foundation in CognitiveBehavioral Theory, she integrates evidence-based practices to foster resiliency in patients by collaboratively identifying patient strengths and goals for treatment.

MS, LPCC

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Psychotherapy

Sees ages 5+

Renee has two decades of experience in helping children and families in a variety of settings. She is passionate about helping people live their best lives, and assists others in managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, divorce, and developmental transitions. She enjoys incorporating lifestyle changes to enhance a person’s complete well-being.

Amanda Schuh

PhD, APRN, PMHNP-BC

Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Sees ages 6+

Dr. Schuh is is able to prescribe medicine, and has experience providing mental health care to diverse clients across the lifespan. Dr. Schuh maintains research interests focused on families and their coping and adaptations to stress, particularly resilience and trauma.

Mike

Vesely

MA, LPCC

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Psychotherapy

Sees ages 13+

Mike works with a variety of age groups, though he has a passion for and experience working with teens and families. His clinical focus includes anxiety, depression, family conflict, and anger management. Mike’s therapeutic approach is interdisciplinary, using an individual’s strengths beyond a simple diagnosis. He sees therapy as a holistic experience rather than a one-size-fits-all process.

To be referred to a mental health provider, make an appointment with your provider at our clinic by calling 320-864-3121

We’re proud to partner with community organizations like 2B CONTINUED, who work tirelessly to support mental health awareness and suicide prevention in our community. 2B CONTINUED helped us draw encouraging and uplifting messages across Prairie Trail, our new walking path, before this summer’s Glencoe Days Fun Run and Walk. See photos from the event on page 13! Learn more about 2B CONTINUED: 2bcontinued.org

Renee Carlson

Urologist Kenneth Smith, MD, PhD Joins Our Medical Staff

Dr. Smith sees patients on our Glencoe campus.

We recently welcomed urologist Kenneth Smith, MD, PhD, to our team of providers.

In his practice as a urologist, Dr. Smith treats conditions and diseases that affect the kidneys, bladder, urinary tract, and male reproductive system.

“I enjoy working in the field of urology, as it combines the intellectual stimulation of medical science with the technical ability to perform safe and effective surgical procedures,” said Dr. Smith.

thank you

FOR YOUR YEARS OF SERVICE, DR. HELLER!

John Heller, MD, has retired from his urology practice after many years of service at GRH! Dr. Heller is remaining on-call at GRH, so you may still see him around our campus.

Dr. Smith especially enjoys endoscopic procedures, particularly treating kidney stones.

“These procedures can often provide immediate relief to the patient,” said Dr. Smith. “They’re minimally invasive, are performed as an outpatient procedure, and allow for a brisk recovery so the patient can get back to their routine as quickly as possible.”

After hours

Outside of his medical practice, Dr. Smith enjoys spending time with his wife, two children, and their pet cat. In his spare time, he likes to go biking, hiking, swimming, camping, and enjoying activities in the snow.

“I love to ice skate and play hockey,” said Dr. Smith. “I’ve been ice skating for over 30 years and am always in a better mood when I come off the ice than when I went on.”

Learn more about Dr. Smith by visiting grhsonline.org/ken-smith, or make an appointment by calling 320-864-7080.

We are incredibly grateful to Dr. Heller for the impact he has made on our community, and his contributions to our organization over the years. Thank you and enjoy your retirement, Dr. Heller!

“I thrive in environments in which I can make direct, positive impacts on my patients.”

Orthopedic surgeon Matthew Copple, DO, recently joined our expert team of providers at GRH.

As an orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Copple treats injuries and conditions affecting bones, muscles, joints, and ligaments. He enjoys the variety an orthopedic practice brings, including everything from arthritic knees and hips, to sports injuries, adult and pediatric fractures, and nerve compression injuries.

“I truly love being a general orthopedic surgeon,” said Dr. Copple. “Seeing the immediate positive impact I can have on my patients never fails to remind me how glad I am to have taken this path in life.”

Dr. Copple focuses on educating his patients about treatment options, and talking with them to choose the route of care that is best for that individual.

“I want my patients to be able to make the most informed decision possible when it comes to their treatment plan,” said Dr. Copple. “After identifying the issue and coming up with the correct diagnosis, I enjoy working with my patients to create the best care plan for them.”

After hours

When he’s not in the clinic or the operating room, Dr. Copple enjoys spending time with his friends and family.

“I love to hit the trails for a great hike,” said Dr. Copple. “I also like to spend time camping, head out on a hunting trip, or go biking during my free time.”

Matthew Copple, DO Joins Our Team as an Orthopedic Surgeon

HARVEST SEASON at Prairie Trail

GlenFields residents enjoy produce from the Helping Hands Garden.

This summer, the Helping Hands Garden on our walking path, Prairie Trail, was overflowing with greenery and being tended to daily by staff and GlenFields residents.

The Helping Hands Garden was created as a space for residents and staff to spend time outdoors together, bringing back fond memories of gardening for many residents. The fruits and vegetables grown in the garden are also used to create special snacks or meals for the residents, so they may share in the fruits of their labor together.

“We were out in the garden almost daily,” said GlenFields Rehab Services Manager Shannon Alsleben, who’s been leading the efforts in the garden. “The residents have been excited to be involved and watch the garden change and grow.”

After Charles Alsleben, Shannon’s fatherin-law, generously built a set of custom garden boxes for the space, our team got to work, planning and planting.

The residents were asked what kinds of fruits and vegetables they’d like to see in the garden, and the garden was planted with seeds from their suggestions.

“Some of the residents went out in the garden to pick vegetables, look at what’s growing, water the plants, and to reminisce,” said Abbie Hatlestad, a Rehab Services Aide who worked in the Helping Hands Garden. “When on trishaw bike

rides, sometimes they stop at the garden, too.”

Even residents who have not wanted to tend to the garden have liked sitting in the sunshine with our gardening team, enjoying the fresh air and watching the gardeners work.

“It’s been a fun experience hearing the residents tell stories about their gardens, as well as sharing their own tips about gardening and recipes we could make from what we’ve grown,” said Molli Cacka, GlenFields NAR, who also spent time watering and working in the garden.

Some of the residents picked vegetables to bring back to their rooms or share in their households, and some of the residents have enjoyed salads made from the fresh vegetables they’ve grown.

The group looks forward to the next growing season, in which they hope to add more perennials like rhubarb, raspberries, and a larger pumpkin patch. They’re also continuing to add planters and vegetables with different heights, so all people can enjoy the garden.

GARDEN BOXES WERE GENEROUSLY SPONSORED IN HONOR OF:

- Granville and Colleen Drew

- Herbert “Bab” and Ramona “Monie” Marsh

- The Miller Family: Karl, Jeanette, Craig, Heidi, and Fred

- Members of the VFW Auxiliary to Glencoe Post 5102

PLANTS GROWN IN THIS YEAR’S

GARDEN:

• Banana peppers

• Basil

• Beans

• Beets

• Carrots

• Cherry tomatoes

• Chives

• Cucumbers

• Dill

• Green peppers

• Lettuce

• Mint

• Onions

• Potatoes

• Pumpkins

• Radishes

• Spinach

• Squash

• Tomatoes

• Zucchini

Residents have enjoyed vegetables fresh from the garden.

Resident Jan pulls beets from the Helping Hands Garden.

The residents had fun harvesting the vegetables from their garden.

LIKE RIDING A BIKE: Reconnecting and Relaxing with our new

TRISHAW BIKE

There’s nothing quite like feeling a warm ray of sunlight draping itself across your shoulders like a blanket, or the sensation of a gentle breeze ruffling your hair on a clear summer day.

Our team at GlenFields Living with Care agrees. That’s why when the opportunity to apply for a trishaw bike grant presented itself, we jumped at the opportunity. Half of the cost of the bike was covered by the grant, and the other half was generously paid for by the GRH Medical Staff.

The trishaw bike allows two residents to sit in a cushioned passenger seat at the front of the bike, while the trishaw’s “pilot” operates the bike. The bike includes an electricassist motor that is controlled by the pilot, to allow for a smoother, supportive ride.

“The trishaw bike gives the residents an opportunity to just be outside in a different way than if you were walking on the path, sitting on your patio, or even driving in a car,” said Julie Schmidt, Vice President Senior Services. “Plus, it gives them the chance to do something that they might have done in their past.”

The residents have not only enjoyed biking around Prairie Trail, our walking path at GRH, but have also taken the bike to drive past their former homes, to see their churches, visit the cemetery, stop at the park, and enjoy treats from Dairy Queen.

The bike gives our residents with limited mobility an opportunity to feel even more like a part of our community.

“It’s amazing that our residents get to experience the outdoors in such a unique way while exploring their community – seeing kids playing at the park, construction taking place around town, people walking their dogs. All of those things that many of us take for granted, but truly make a community feel like home,” said Denise Lemke, Volunteer & Marketing Events Coordinator.

Sam Baumann, GlenFields Life Enrichment Coordinator, typically goes for 2 – 3 bike rides a day with the residents. Most bike rides last between 15 – 30 minutes, and the most frequent comments she hears from residents are: “It feels amazing to be on a bike again,” and “I love the feeling of the wind in my hair.”

Life Enrichment Coordinator Sam Baumann takes married couple Orchard Estates tenant Corky and GlenFields resident Lester for a trishaw bike ride.

“My favorite part of this program is seeing the residents smile,” said Sam. “Seeing their eyes light up while driving past a place from their past, and hearing the joy in their voice while sharing memories makes the bike rides truly special. I’m excited to continue growing this program with longer bike rides and by exploring different areas of town.” Not only have the residents enjoyed being outdoors and seeing new or familiar places, they’ve enjoyed the opportunity to share favorite memories and stories with their fellow residents and the bike pilot.

“The bike opens a space for closer relationship-building,” said Julie. “The residents have so many stories to share, and this bike provides an opening for that conversation –long bike rides around the path, feeling the wind in their hair, getting to revisit sites from their childhood or old neighborhoods – it keeps the stories going.”

INTERESTED IN GETTING INVOLVED?

While winter is nearly here and our biking season has come to a close, we’re looking for individuals interested in volunteering to pilot the bike next spring!

Each new pilot is required to go through a general volunteer orientation, as well as a bike training session for taking passengers out on a ride. Volunteers must be 16 years of age or older to become a pilot.

GOES ABOVE AND BEYOND our team

We’re extremely proud to announce that GlenFields passed our annual State Survey with outstanding results.

Like many skilled nursing facilities, we work hard to create systems, processes, and environments that adhere to State and Federal regulations, and which provide our residents with high-quality, joy-filled lives in the comfort of their homes. Over the past several years, we’ve faced issues including workforce shortages, supply chain issues, and frequent process changes to keep GlenFields safe throughout the pandemic. Because of these types of shared challenges across the nation and State, it is unusual for facilities to receive a deficiency-free State Survey. However, at GlenFields, we have passed our State Survey with zero deficiencies.

Our team cares for our residents with compassion, and creates the warm, home-like environment at GlenFields. We are so proud of each member of our team!

To sign up, contact Denise by calling 320-864-7703, email her at Denise.Lemke@grhsonline.org, or scan the QR code to the right. All interested individuals will be put on a list for training sessions to be held in early spring 2023.

Household Coordinator Laura Bessel stops at our Monarch Waystation with GlenFields residents Alice and Carolyn.

Several GlenFields staff gathered to celebrate their wonderful State Survey results.

Amanda J.Schroeder, MD Joins Our Team as an Orthopedic Surgeon

We’re welcoming Amanda J. Schroeder, MD, to our team of orthopedic surgeons.

Dr. Schroeder is a sports medicine fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon who has cared for athletes at the University of Cincinnati, the University of Minnesota, the Minnesota Whitecaps, and the Minnesota Twins.

While she has special interests in sports medicine and the female athlete, Dr. Schroeder also enjoys providing care for patients with a wide variety of orthopedic needs.

“I am passionate about helping all patients recover from injuries and return to their normal, active lifestyles,” said Dr. Schroeder.

With a focus on partnering with her patients to develop a treatment plan together, Dr. Schroeder provides her patients with as much clarity and education as possible.

“I enjoy working with my patients to develop their treatment plan together, using their symptoms, concerns, and lifestyle in conjunction with my education and experience.”

At the end of each visit, Dr. Schroeder checks in with her patients to make sure all of their questions have been answered, and they feel confident in their care plan.

After hours

Outside of her practice, Dr. Schroeder enjoys yoga, hiking, cooking healthy meals, and traveling.

“I hope to hike in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, scuba dive in the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, and kayak through icebergs in Antarctica,” said Dr. Schroeder.

She enjoys staying active in her free time, and appreciates the Minnesotan coldweather-resiliency.

“Minnesota is by far the most active place I have ever lived – even when it is below 20 degrees outside,” said Dr. Schroeder. “I love seeing people truly seize the day every day.”

PUTTING THE “FUN” IN

Thank you to all of our 2022 Glencoe Days Fun Run and Walk participants!

With nearly 400 participants, we were excited to welcome this year’s attendees to our brand new walking path, Prairie Trail. We were grateful for the blue skies and beautiful temperatures during both the run and walk. We already can’t wait for next year’s event! But you don’t have to – if you’re looking for ways to get active outdoors, visit Prairie Trail for a jog or stroll! Learn more about Prairie Trail: grhsonline.org/prairie-trail

First Place Women: Malayh Metcalf | Time: 14:44

Second Place Women: Marian Castillo | 18:25

Third Place Women: Emily Thalmann | 18:30

First Place Men: Connor Hallaway | 13:34

Second Place Men: Charles Matzke | 13:42

Third Place Men: Dr. Jake Traxler | 14:06 Visit grhsonline.org/jake-traxler to meet Dr. Traxler!

CHOOSING

BY | JAMES JESSEN, MD & CODY W. WENDLANDT, MD

Depending on the ailment or health issue, a patient may need to be seen by either our clinic, Urgent Care, or Emergency Department. Each of these different departments will provide entirely different medical evaluations and care – read below for information that will make it easier for you and your family to get the right care at the right time.

Clinic: The clinic is where you see your primary care provider (PCP). This is the place for preventive screenings (such as well-child or adult exams), management of chronic conditions (including diabetes, hypertension, and other conditions), medication refills, and mental health services. The clinic can also treat acute illnesses, such as ear pain and sore throats. Your PCP is the “quarterback” who coordinates care with all other healthcare professionals. GRH has clinic appointments available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Glencoe and Lester Prairie. Our Stewart clinic is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Urgent Care: Urgent Care is where patients are seen for “clinic-like” conditions, but are unable to wait until the next clinic appointment. Some examples would be sprains, minor fractures, lacerations, viral illnesses, and UTIs. Urgent Care should not be used for problems that have been stable or slowly worsening over many months - the best place to manage those conditions is in the clinic setting with your PCP who knows you best. GRH has Urgent Care available in Glencoe 365 days a year, from 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

With so many different healthcare options available, it’s easy to be confused about where to go for help. We’re here to make getting care easy!

CLINIC Preventive screenings and management of chronic conditions.

URGENT CARE

EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

“Clinic-like” conditions that cannot wait for the next appointment. Sprains, minor fractures, viral illnesses, etc.

“Life and limb” conditions. Chest pain, severe abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, stroke-like symptoms, etc.

Emergency Department (ED):

The ED is for treatment of “life and limb” conditions. When you think about the ED, think about 911-types of problems. The ED manages chest pain, severe abdominal pain, breathing difficulty, stroke-like symptoms, trauma, etc. It’s important that the ED is not used for “convenience care” for minor illness that should be cared for in the clinic or Urgent Care. Treating these minor conditions in the ED takes up resources from heart attacks, strokes, and trauma patients. GRH has emergency care available in Glencoe 24/7, 365 days a year.

TIPS:

Glencoe Lester Prairie Stewart

Monday - Friday | 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Monday - Friday | 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Monday - Friday | 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Yes. Call 320-864-3121 to make an appointment.

• It’s most helpful when you can bring your ID card, your insurance card, a list of your medical conditions, your medications, and the names of your healthcare provider(s).

• The ED utilizes a triage system, meaning the sickest patients are seen first. Depending on the severity of your condition, you may be required to wait. You may think the waiting room is empty, but you don’t see the stroke or heart attack happening behind closed doors.

• If you have COVID-like symptoms and have a positive home COVID test, there is no need for a “confirmation” test. Treatment of COVID is typically symptomatic, unless you require hospitalization or suffer from a high-risk medical condition (such as diabetes and COPD).

• If you need to bring a family member to the ED and are having trouble getting them in the car, please call 911 for an ambulance. Our staff may have just as difficult a time getting the patient out of the car at the hospital as you had getting them in the car, and our ambulance services will be able to provide a much more seamless experience for transportation to care.

Cody W. Wendlandt, MD Emergency Medicine

Drs. Jessen and Wendlandt are board-certified in Family Medicine, and currently see patients in the Emergency Department at GRH.

GRH IS COMMITTED TO PROVIDING OUR PATIENTS THE BEST CARE POSSIBLE.

UNDERSTANDING WHICH AREA OF OUR FACILITY CAN BEST SERVE YOUR SPECIFIC NEEDS HELPS US CARE FOR YOU IN THE MOST EFFECTIVE, EFFICIENT MANNER.

James Jessen, MD Emergency Medicine

Building Relationships

From prenatal care to adolescent health, our team of providers is the very best in the region.

ONE BABY AT A TIME

John Mark Johnson, DO, FACOOG

I really enjoy building relationships with my patients – it’s important to have excellent communication between a provider and their patients. I also specialize in high-risk OB care, and I love bringing that service to Glencoe. We offer high-quality care at a local level, where we’re really able to get to know our patients and their families, and care for them during some of the most important times of their lives. It makes my OB practice that much more fulfilling.

A word from Dr. Johnson’s patient, Hailey Steil: Without Dr. Johnson, I wouldn’t have my three beautiful children. He has been part of my journey from the very beginning, and is informative, answers all of my questions, and always eases my concerns. While I was pregnant with my twins and having a few issues, he also called me personally because he wanted to make sure things were trending in the right direction. My twins were delivered via emergency cesarean – everything happened in what seemed like a blink of an eye, but Dr. Johnson made decisions quickly and had a positive attitude. He made sure I understood everything and continuously made sure I was ok. I have nothing but kind words and admiration for Dr. Johnson. He will always hold a special place in my heart.

Caring for whole families, including multiple generations, is my passion. Not only did I grow up in Glencoe, but I was actually born at GRH, and having that background makes it even more special to now be delivering babies and caring for families in the area that raised me. I love getting to know my patients, and want them to feel comfortable talking with me about any concerns they may have.

A word from Dr. Appleby’s patient, Mollee Mielke: Dr. Appleby has been a great provider for us over the last four years. She’s been compassionate, helpful, and understanding throughout that time. I’ve always felt very comfortable discussing any health concerns we have, and she’s always ready to listen and offer advice and care. She’s fantastic with my son, who she’s known since my pregnancy and his birth. We are expecting again and are glad to know we’ll be able to have her there for this baby, as well. One thing I particularly appreciate is that she’s a mother herself. Not only can she give us care based on medical knowledge, but also life experience as a parent. I feel so comfortable knowing she’s “been there before.” I would definitely recommend Dr. Appleby to anyone seeking OB care or a family medicine provider.

Nina Appleby, DO

Steil family

Mielke family

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR OB TEAM!

Scan the QR code to watch our short videos and learn more about our providers.

Kristen Budahn, MD

Ever since I was a kid, I’ve wanted to be a doctor. Originally, I wanted to be a pediatrician, but in medical school I delivered my first baby, and I was hooked. I knew family medicine was the perfect fit for me, because I can see both moms and babies. I love that my practice allows me to take care of whole families – from caring for moms throughout the whole course of their pregnancy, to welcoming little ones into the world, and then watching those babies grow up afterward.

A word from Dr. Budahn’s patient, Joleen Woytcke: Dr. Budahn is fantastic – she’s very thoughtful, sweet, and easy to talk to. She’s extremely smart, knowledgeable, and reassuring. She’s quick to respond when you need her, which I’ve always appreciated. During delivery, my babies have always come out very quickly, and as mom, when things are moving fast it can be stressful – but Dr. Budahn is always there right away, ready to go, and super calm, which has made me even more calm. She’s the best doctor I have ever had.

Amanda Leino, MD

What excites me most about my practice is really developing relationships with my patients, and getting to meet those little babies and watching them grow. I have some patients who are teenagers now, who I’ve been able to be there for since they were born – it’s super rewarding. Getting to be part of that beautiful and awesome moment a family welcomes a baby into their lives is my favorite part of my practice – it’s just such a miracle every time.

A word from Dr. Leino’s patient, Carly Tupy: Dr. Leino and GRH have been a great experience for us. We moved after having our first child, and had to find a new doctor and hospital. People always say the second kid is easier, but the difference for us was beyond expected. My husband and I agree – we wish we’d had our first kid here, as well. Everything went so smoothly! Dr. Leino always listens to our questions and gives good explanations. She knows how to emphasize what’s important without causing undue stress or worry when issues arise. She’s great with kids, too! It’s so nice to have the same person care for your baby before and after they’re born. We’re so blessed to have such great continuous care.

Woytcke family

Tupy family

Michelle Quale, CNM, FNP-BC

My goal is to provide my patients with as much education as possible, to answer their questions, and to make them feel comfortable during such an exciting time in their lives. The most rewarding part of my practice has been continuing to partner with patients who have had multiple children – when you’ve delivered four, five, six, or even seven babies all within the same family, it gives you a unique and beautiful ability to really see that family grow up.

A word from Michelle’s patient, Ashley Hallstrom: The best testament to Michelle’s care is how long I’ve been seeing her – I saw her for my first pregnancy over 18 years ago, during which time she’s changed health systems and I’ve followed her! Michelle has been with me and my family through thick and thin – we’ve even given one of our daughters the middle name Michelle. I feel that she knows me and what I need better than myself most of the time! When I’m making a decision about my care, I trust her and what course she thinks is best. She is always an upbeat person, too – I cannot think of a time in the 18+ years I’ve been seeing her that she hasn’t been able to bring a smile to my face!

Kari Knodel Vettel, MPAS-PA-C

My care philosophy is holistic. People are not just their bodies –we need to take their whole person into consideration when caring for them and developing a treatment plan. I want my patients to be well, and to feel supported. I care about my patients having good health before they get pregnant; during their pregnancy; and as they become moms, dads, and families. I enjoy caring for people throughout the continuum of their lives.

A word from Kari’s patient, Amanda Anderson: Kari is just amazing! She always listens, and she notices when you’re nervous and does what she can to comfort you. Whenever you have an appointment with her, she is truly excited to see you. She is informative, caring, and kind. I have had all three of my kids at Glencoe Regional Health with Kari, and she has been nothing short of amazing. She genuinely cares for her patients. Going to the doctor’s office is not always fun, but Kari always makes it ten times better!

Hallstrom family

Anderson family

With the holidays just around the corner, keep the GRH Foundation in mind!

HOPE HOLIDAYS Forth�

You make an impact each time you donate to the Glencoe Regional Health Foundation. Your gift funds scholarships and supports community health projects that benefit the entire region.

In 2022, the Foundation granted Sanken-Hatz Scholarships to 70 students pursuing careers in healthcare. These scholarships help relieve the financial burden for students desiring to help and heal through their careers – and your support of the Foundation makes this possible.

During this season of giving, please keep the Foundation in mind. Supporting the Foundation with a gift is easy and can be done in four ways:

1. Scan the QR to the left to be taken to our online giving portal.

2. Visit grhsonline.org/hopeforholidays to make a gift.

3. Text to give by sending “HOPEHOLIDAYS2022” to 44-321

4. Mail your gift to the address below – checks may be made out to the Glencoe Regional Health Foundation.

Glencoe Regional Health Foundation | 1805 Hennepin Ave. N. | Glencoe, MN 55336

Thank you for your support of the Glencoe Regional Health Foundation throughout the year, and during this special holiday season!

COMMUNITY

In 2021, we continued to improve in order to better serve you, our patients, and community. Here are a few highlights from the year.

We continued to provide drive up COVID-19 testing sites, COVID-19 vaccine clinics, and monoclonal antibody infusion services for our COVID-19 patients.

We offered Telehealth Services in our Clinics, Rehab Services, and Diabetic Education departments to provide our patients with convenient, safe options for care that helped them feel at ease throughout the pandemic.

Karen Chinnock, PhD, LP, began providing mental health services for GRH patients at our Glencoe Clinic in October 2021.

Matthew Patterson, MD, FACS, MBA, MHA, expanded our sleep and ENT services, and added allergy services in August 2021.

Elizabeth Colsen, MD, FACS, joined our general surgery team in September 2021, bringing with her a special interest in bariatric surgery and reflux relief.

Jake Traxler, MD, expanded clinic appointment availability to our Glencoe and Stewart clinics when he joined our family medicine team in September 2021.

We started a free, in-house Nursing Assistant-Registered (NAR) educational program for eligible applicants to earn a NAR certification.

2021

Back by popular demand! We offered drive-up flu shot clinics, to provide an easier, more convenient way for our community members to get their flu vaccine in a safe, social-distanced environment.

Capital investments of $40,000 in capnography equipment in the Surgery and Emergency Departments to enhance respiratory monitoring.

Capital investments of $72,000 in Respiratory Therapy equipment to improve pulmonary services.

Capital investments of $11,000 in Bravo equipment to expand reflux surgical services. Capital investments of $140,000 in Laboratory equipment to expand in-house capacity to provide faster return of patient test results.

Capital investments of $226,000 in Information Technology Infrastructure Equipment to enhance data security and improve communication.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE

Glencoe Regional Health provides medically-necessary hospital and emergency room care regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. We provide this care at a reduced rate to patients who have exhausted all forms of insurance coverage and meet defined eligibility requirements. For details and a downloadable application, look for the Financial Assistance link at grhsonline.org/patients-visitors. You may also contact our billing department at 320-864-7101.

Matthew Patterson, MD, FACS, MBA, MHA

Jake Traxler, MD

Karen Chinnock, PhD, LP

Elizabeth Colsen, MD, FACS

We hosted three community-wide blood drives, in partnership with the American Red Cross, collecting 325 units of blood from 315 donors.

Dr. Traxler offered a professional training presentation on opioids to key members of our community.

Dr. Wendlandt provided First Aid Training to area Girl Scouts.

We work every day to improve the health of our region. Here’s a summary of the gifts and services we provided to our community in 2021.

UNCOMPENSATED CARE – $2,495,000

The total cost of healthcare services that GRH provides to patients without being paid, including charity care and underpayment of services.

COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES – $237,000

Health Talks and other community health presentations, flu clinics, interpreter services, MNsure certified application counselors, prenatal classes, online health education, and case management of uninsured and underinsured patients.

FINANCIAL AND IN-KIND CONTRIBUTIONS – $49,000

GRH employees volunteered their time to organize, coordinate, and staff the Glencoe Days Fun Run and Walk, resulting in a cumulative 60 hours of volunteer time.

Staff present at area school and community events, administrative support provided to the GRH Foundation, and in-kind donations and sponsorships to area community groups.

COMMUNITY-BUILDING ACTIVITIES – $62,000

Disaster and emergency preparedness, in addition to community disease surveillance, reporting, and preparedness.

STUDENT SHADOWING & INTERNSHIPS

Our staff dedicated nearly 8,900 hours to provide on-the-job training to 93 students from 13 different schools.

Dr. Knudten, Dr. Helland, and Rehabilitation Services Director Clark Christianson participated in 2B CONTINUED’s Dancing Like the Stars event, resulting in a cumulative 107 volunteer hours.

We’re proud to make these contributions of time, talent, and treasure for the health of our community.

Community Health Needs Assessment

PRIORITY AREAS

Every three years, GRH conducts a Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) and adopts an implementation strategy to meet the community health needs as identified.

MENTAL HEALTH OBESITY

The 2019 CHNA was a collaborative process involving our local hospitals, county public health staff, students from Ridgewater College, and feedback from the community. Information was shared between the organizations as it related to individual efforts occurring by each group.

Through this work and the review of available data, priority areas emerged. Similar to our past CHNAs, the highestpriority health needs for the community served by Glencoe Regional Health were identified as access to needed services, specifically mental health, and obesity trends, especially in our female population. Responding to those obesity trends will call for us to positively impact individual choices related to healthy eating and being active.

You can review our current and past CHNA reports on our website at grhsonline.org/community-health-needs-assessment. These requirements are part of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA).