Keeping You Well
FALL 2019
David’s Story PAGE 4
Walking Her Way to Better Health PAGE 10
Guttenberg Municipal Hospital & Clinics
Grateful PATIENT “
Thank you GMHC
Surgery Department
for taking such good care of me before,
during, and after my
gall bladder removal.
Message from Tim Thank you all for providing a warm welcome this past spring and summer as I became the new Chief Executive Officer of Guttenberg Municipal Hospital and Clinics (GMHC) this past April. I have Timothy Ahlers CEO thoroughly enjoyed the experience thus far and feel blessed to be part of the Guttenberg community. I have met many wonderful people and know they are the reason this is such a special place. As summer wraps up and we head into a new school year, I’d like to share a quick update on things happening at GMHC. We have adopted and woven a set of Cultural Beliefs, shared by our affiliate MercyOne, into the work we do. • Be One – I benefit from and strengthen MercyOne.
Every one of you cared
• Personalize Care – Your experience. My responsibility.
about my well being and mental state.
(I tend to get nervous!) My recovery was
just as described and went well. I have
been working and
vacationing almost as if nothing has happened. Thanks again for such
a positive experience! A GRATEFUL PATIENT
• Own It! – I own my actions to deliver our key results.
• Improve Daily – I make improvements every day for those we serve, including each other.
• Innovate – I imagine and embrace bold new ideas to revolutionize health.
These Cultural Beliefs are our foundation as we continue to focus on enhancing your experience, improving our quality and efficiency, and growing our services to meet your needs. We want you to feel comfortable and confident in knowing that we will do all that we can to make sure you have a positive health care experience here at GMHC. Besides working with our team, one of the favorite parts of my role is hearing from grateful patients. In this edition of our newsletter, you’ll hear from patients who experienced an improvement in their health because of the care provided at GMHC. If you have a great story to share, I’d love to hear from you! I have worked in large and small hospitals. GMHC is unique. What sets us apart is our people. People who do great work every day to help those in need. People like Kari Harbaugh, who was recently named an Iowa Hospital Association “Hospital Hero.” Our caregivers and our support staff are second to none and it is an honor to be part of this team. Sincerely,
Timothy Ahlers 2 The Update | Fall 2019
Cornerstone Family Practice
Clinic Hours
GUTTENBERG
MON-THURS: 8am - 7pm FRI: 8am - 5pm SAT: 8am - Noon
GARNAVILLO
MON: 8am - 5pm WED: 8am - Noon THURS & FRI: 8am - 5pm
EDGEWOOD
MON & TUES: 8am - 5pm WED: 8am - Noon FRI: 8am - 5pm
Introducing Taylor Fassbinder Cornerstone Family Practice is pleased to welcome our newest provider, Taylor Fassbinder, DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) to our clinic team. Taylor grew up in Guttenberg and is excited about joining the Cornerstone team. EDUCATION: Bachelor of Science, Nursing University of Iowa Doctor of Nursing Practice Clarke University
TAYLOR FASSBINDER, DNP
“
As a family nurse practitioner, I look forward to providing primary health care services to patients of all ages and am grateful to do so in the community where I grew up.”
TAYLOR FASSBINDER, DNP
From infancy through the end of life, Cornerstone Family Practice providers are trained to care for patients of all ages. In addition to diagnosing and treating acute and chronic illnesses, our providers focus on preventative and routine care, men’s and women’s health, and children and adolescents. We encourage you to have a continuous relationship with your health care provider to coordinate care during both wellness and illness. Cornerstone Family Practice Guttenberg is proud to be your Patient Centered Medical Home. GUTTENBERG 563-252-2141
Like us on Facebook 200 Main Street
Andrew Smith, MD
Jeffrey Hoffmann, DO
Michele Dikkers, DO
Lana Erion, DNP, FNP-BC
Amber Wessels, FNP
Vanessa Solomon, FNP
Shelly Klein, DNP
Hayle Bockenstedt, FNP
GARNAVILLO 563-964-2608 101 E Watson Street
EDGEWOOD 563-928-6435 The Update | Fall 2019 3 101 S Washington Street
David’s
Holy Cross native, David Errthum, recently
visited with members of the GMHC trauma team who assisted in saving his hand after an accident this past May.
On the afternoon of Wednesday, May 22, David Errthum was at home putting the final touches on a family room remodeling project. His youngest daughter’s graduation party was at their home that Saturday and he only had two pieces of trim to add to complete the room. David was sawing the wooden trim with a 12” chop saw, when the wood moved. Focused on the cut of the board, David reached his left arm over to hold it, when he sawed through the wood and then nearly severed his hand. 4 The Update | Fall 2019
STORY
David yelled for his wife and daughter, who called 911. Knowing he was in trouble, he wrapped his arm in dishtowels and kneeled on the steps of his deck, applying pressure. When the Holy Cross ambulance crew arrived they placed a tourniquet on Dave’s arm and had him hold it on ice as they rushed him to Guttenberg Municipal Hospital & Clinics (GMHC). The ambulance gave GMHC notice that they were to arrive shortly with
a severely injured man. The trauma team was activated and was waiting in the Emergency Department when the ambulance arrived. The injury was assessed as a nearly complete amputation of David’s left hand. Only about an inch of tissue kept his hand attached to his arm. While waiting for the medical helicopter to arrive to transport him to Iowa City, further evaluation was done. Dr. Daniel Mansfield, general surgeon, wanted to do whatever was possible to give David the best chance of saving his hand.
“
My surgeons in Iowa City were very impressed with the response time and work done here at GMHC. They credit you all for saving my hand.”
DAVID ERRTHUM
“We gently released the tourniquet and were able to control the arterial bleeding. Then we were able to see if there was any flow from the other artery making it to the hand. And amazingly there was! We knew that this would give him the best chance to save his hand,” said Mansfield.
With the overwhelming help of his friends and family, the graduation party for his daughter went on as planned the next day, becoming an appreciation party too.
David’s hand and arm were stabilized in a splint and he was prepared for helicopter transport. A surgical team at the University of Iowa spent nearly eight hours reconstructing and reattaching David’s hand. When David awoke, he was surrounded by his wife and all four of his daughters. He was released two days later, on Friday, May 24.
David recently had an opportunity to visit with the trauma team at GMHC who helped him. “Thank you,” said David gratefully as he showed them his arm. “My surgeons in Iowa City were very impressed with the response time and work done here at GMHC. They credit you all for saving my hand.” David’s arm is still in a compression glove and a splint, and with continued physical therapy, he anticipates full use of it once again.
Waving his healing arm, David rode in the Guttenberg ambulance with Paul Decker during the Holy Cross parade in August.
When reflecting on the accident, David was overwhelmed with gratitude for everyone who has assisted him during his recovery. “I’m a pretty independant guy,” he said. “I’m not good at having to rely on others, but this accident gave me so many opportunities to spend time with my family and friends because I had to depend on them. I’m humbled by all who have helped me and will be forever grateful.”
David recently visited with several members of the GMHC trauma team that assisted him. (L-R): Amy Sadewasser, Megan Borrett, Dr. Daniel Mansfield, David, Paul Decker, Shelly Klein, ARNP, Dr. Andy Smith, Deb Preston and Brandie Thomkins. The Update | Fall 2019 5
Our Hospital
HERO
Kari Harbaugh, Coordinator, Family Resource Center
“
Kari Harbaugh, GMHC Family Resource Center Coordinator, is selected as a Iowa Hospital Association’s Hospital Hero.
There is no question that each and every Iowa hospital has individuals who really know how to make a difference for their patients, communities and co-workers.” KIRK NORRIS Iowa Hospital Association President
“We read about individuals and the recognitions they receive from their own hospitals, from state and national peer groups and from the communities where they work and live. They are the mentors, innovators
and leaders who earn our admiration by challenging themselves daily to do a little more,” says IHA President Kirk Norris. It is easy to understand why Kari Harbaugh was selected as an Iowa Hospital Association Hero. Under Kari Harbaugh’s direction, the Family Resource Center has grown to become a full-service center addressing the social determinants of health of our patients. There are over 4000 patient contacts each year. Kari understands that she cannot provide all services that are needed on her own, so she has developed an extensive collaborative network of agencies. She has also partnered with the local schools and churches as a way to reach more people.
“
“Kari works behind the scenes to identify needs and makes every effort to find support, whether it is a much needed meal or a bed for a child sleeping on the floor. She is extremely deserving of this recognition,” commented Lisa Manson, Director of Ambulatory Services, GMHC. Within the Family Resource Center, patients can find assistance with housing, utilities, food, clothing, and furnishings. Also available is access to transportation and assistance with financial program applications. Collaboratively Kari provides support with violence and sexual abuse, Veterans assistance, special patient populations, food banks, mental health and childhood resources. Kari collaborates with a separate
I’m humbled to receive this award
and share this honor with the outstanding partners and co-workers that I collaborate with to serve our communities”
KARI HARBAUGH Iowa Hospital Hero
Upcoming Events: Life Transitions Workshop
Wednesday, Sept. 11: 4:30pm GMHC Education Center
Pediatric Developmental Screenings Wednesday, Sept. 18: 8am to 11am Tuesday, Sept. 24: 3pm to 6pm GMHC Rehab Department Call 563-252-5527 to schedule
GermanFest 5k
Kari Harbaugh, Family Resource Center Coordinator, delivering student hygiene kits to a local school.
“
Kari is an amazing advocate for every client she
assists. Her work has been so successful in helping our communities, it is becoming a model for other hospitals in Iowa.”
LYNN BOCKENSTEDT GMHC Social Worker
non-profit organization to provide resources such as a mentoring program, parent education, back to school supplies and Christmas for kids. Kari leads community support groups for cancer, grief, and children.
She teaches Safe Sitter classes and leads after school programs and a backpack food program. Kari will be recognized at the IHA Annual Meeting in Des Moines on October 9th.
About the Iowa Hospital Association Heroes Awards Among the more than 72,000 people who do their work in Iowa hospitals every day, there are countless heroes. To recognize and promote these individual hospital employees who contribute courageously and selflessly to Iowa hospitals and their communities, the Iowa Hospital Heroes Awards are presented annually at the IHA Annual Meeting in Des Moines. Since 2007, the Hospital Heroes program has celebrated more than 100 employees who have acted courageously in a moment’s crisis or who have selflessly served their hospitals and communities throughout their careers. Through the Heroes program, IHA shares the stories of these employees and honors their outstanding work and dedication.
Saturday, Sept. 28: 8:30am GMHC Parking Lot Regsitration/Packet Pickup 7:45am getmeregistered.com/germanfest5k
GMHC Blood Drive
American Red Cross Monday, Sept. 30: 12pm to 5pm GMHC Education Center Visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800733-2767 to make your appointment
Healthiest State Initiative Walk
Wednesday, Oct. 2: 5pm Meet at Guttenberg Veterans Memorial for a 30 minute walk along the river
Ongoing Events: Cancer Support Group
1st Thursday of each month 4:30pm to 5:30pm Family Resource Center | 563-252-3215
Grief Support Group
3rd Thursday of each month 4pm to 5pm Family Resource Center | 563-252-3215
Diabetes Support Group
3rd Wednesday of each month 5:30pm to 6:30pm GMHC Ed Center | 563-252-2141
Parkinson’s Exercise Group
2nd & 4th Tuesday of each month 6pm GMHC | 563-252-5527
The Update | Fall 2019 7 The Update | Fall 2019 7
Smaller incision. Less pain. Less scarring. Faster recovery. Robotic-assisted surgery
is a form of minimally-invasive surgery that is performed through small incisions. During a robotic-assisted surgical procedure, our surgeon sits at a console while viewing a highdefinition, 3D image of the patient’s target anatomy. The surgeon’s hand, wrist and finger movements made at the console are translated into precise, real-time movement of surgical instruments attached to three robotic arms. Robotic-assisted surgery allows our surgeons to perform many types of complex procedures with more precision, flexibility and control than is possible with conventional techniques.
PATIENT BENEFITS:
• Significantly less pain following surgery • Less risk of infection • Less use of anesthesia • Less scarring • Less blood loss • Shorter hospital stay • Faster and more complete recovery • Quicker return to normal daily activities
Thank you!
Over $41,000 Raised for 3D Mammography With Flamingo Flockings, GermanFest 5K, Pink Out Game, and the generosity of many, we raised over $41,000 towards our 3D Mammography technology. Thank You! 3D Mammography creates multiple images of the breast in many very thin layers so radiologists can examine tissue one layer at a time instead of viewing just a single flat image. Fine details are more visible and no longer hidden by the tissue above or below. Radiologists better see the size, shape and location of any abnormalities, so breast cancer can be diagnosed even sooner. Schedule your mammogram during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October and you’ll receive a “pink” gift from our Imaging Department. Do you need help with the cost of your mammogram? CARE FOR YOURSELF is a program that helps women with exam expenses. Please call 563-556-6200 or 1-800 862-6133 for more information.
Life Transitions WORKSHOP September 11, 2019 4:30-6:30 pm GMHC Education Center 200 Main St. Guttenberg
PROCEDURES:
• Hernia repair • Hysterectomy and other gynecological procedures • Fibroid removal (Myomectomy) • Endometriosis procedures • Colon resections • Gallbladder removal (Cholecystectomy)
To find out if robotic surgery is an option for you, please call (563) 252-5536 to speak with a GMHC surgery expert.
Join us for this free workshop to learn from experts about planning and resources to help you transition through the health care system. You’ll even have a chance to win a gift certificate from our Gift Shop!
Topics Include:
• Advance Directives • Transitions of Care • Long Term Financial Strategies • SHIIP: Senior Health Insurance Information Program • Hospice Care
8 The Update | Fall 2019
• Funeral Planning
Head-to-Toe Well-Child Visits
Dr. Andy Smith Family Physician
Healthcare providers play a critical role in monitoring children’s growth and development and identifying problems as early as possible.
At Cornerstone Family Practice, our goal is to develop an ongoing relationship with our young patients so we can treat the whole child with coordinated care. All children should be screened during well-child visits at scheduled intervals if there are no concerns. A complete history during the well-child visit includes information about birth history; prior and current screenings; diet; sleep; dental care; and medical, surgical, family,
and social histories. A head-to-toe examination is performed, including a review of growth and development. Immunizations are reviewed and updated as appropriate.
Free Pediatric
Well-child visits provide the opportunity to answer parents’ or caregivers’ questions and to provide age-appropriate guidance. Parents who are aware of developmental milestones can observe their child and inform their healthcare provider about any concerns they may have about their child’s development.
Wondering if your child’s development is on track?
Well-child visits are scheduled periodically through early adulthood providing opportunities for healthcare providers to screen for medical problems (including psychosocial concerns), to provide anticipatory guidance, and to promote good health.
Developmental Screening Make an appointment for a free developmental screening. GMHC’s therapy staff will provide free, quick developmental screenings for children, ages 1-6 years old, and share valuable resources for parents curious about early childhood development. Each screening will take 20-30 minutes and will include an interactive questionnaire and conversation between guardian(s), child and staff.
Areas of focus:
Rehabilitation Services at GMHC Guttenberg Municipal Hospital & Clinics offers a broad range of rehabilitation services in a spacious and welcoming environment. With private treatment rooms and a large open exercise area, experienced therapists help patients recover function after surgery, stroke, heart attack, injury or other disabling condition. Our therapists work together with patients, their loved ones and/ or staff at other facilities to develop a customized treatment plan to reach the best outcome for each patient. GMHC offers: • Physical Therapy
• Occupational Therapy
• Cardiac Rehabilitation
• Speech Therapy
• Pulmonary Rehabilitation
• Lymphedema Therapy
To learn more about our rehabilitation services call 563-252-5527 or visit guttenberghospital.org/services.
Speech Therapy: Speech Sounds, Early Language, Social Skills, Play Skills, Feeding/Swallowing
Physical Therapy: Walking, Running, Coordination, Posture
Occupational Therapy: Finger-Grip Coordination, Hand-Eye Coordination, Hand Strength
Screening Dates: Wednesday, Sept. 18th: 8am - 11am Tuesday, Sept. 24th: 3pm - 6pm Please call 563-252-5527 to make your free appointment.
The Update | Fall 2019 9
Health Coaching Let us help you improve your lifestyle! Are you looking for someone to help you successfully manage medical conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma and other health issues? The Health Coaches at Cornerstone Family Practice Clinic help people develop a personalized plan to reach their goals for healthy living. Health Coaches will help you understand your diagnosis, your medical condition, and your doctor’s treatment plan so you can make sure you are getting the best care close to home.
Meet the GMHC Health Coaches:
Cindy Niehaus walks alongside GMHC Physical Therapist, Joel Gourley, with the Guttenberg Gallopers Wellness Club on Guttenberg’s River Walk.
Walking Her Way to Better Health
When Cindy Niehaus learned about a free wellness club sponsored by GMHC that involved walking, she was ready to join. Cindy attended the initial meeting of the Guttenberg Gallopers Wellness Club, led by Physical Therapist Joel Gourley, last March. “I knew I needed to do something to improve my overall physical health, and I really enjoy walking,” said Cindy. “I needed accountability partners to keep me committed, and the physical therapy department and Health Coaches were great encouragement for me! We walked twice a week during some very frigid spring days, but I bundled up and walked.” When Cindy began with the club, she had to stop and rest frequently because of shortness of breath. After walking regularly, Cindy has improved her endurance, now completing the entire stretch (over a mile) without stopping and even while carrying on a conversation.
Amy Sadewasser RN, BSN , Lori Kuehl, RN Rachel Fritz, RN, and Joan Parker, RN, BSN
Cornerstone Family Practice Clinic offers Health Coaching in Guttenberg, Garnavillo and Edgewood. Call 563-252-2141 to make your appointment. 10 The Update | Fall 2019
“
This is such a beautiful path to walk, right here along the river. I’m very thankful GMHC started up this club to keep me motivated. I feel great!” CINDY NIEHAUS, Guttenberg Galloper Member
To learn more about the Guttenberg Gallopers Wellness Club, call 563-252-5527. The Guttenberg Gallopers Wellness Club meets on Mondays and Wednesdays at 5pm at the Gazebo through October and will begin again in the spring. Walkers, joggers, runners are all welcome to join. Membership is free.
Medicare. Now What? For many Iowans, understanding Medicare and related health insurance can be confusing and overwhelming.
Where do I start? What are my options? Am I making the right decision? What will it cost me? Is there help if I can’t afford my insurance? If I’m still working do I have to sign up for Medicare? SHIIP can help. SHIIP is the abbreviation for Senior Health Insurance Information Program. The State of Iowa created SHIIP in 1990 in response to the statewide need for senior health insurance information. SHIIP provides free informational materials as well as one-to-one assistance to persons who are retired or over the age of 65 at no cost.
Jim Solomon, SHIIP Volunteer
Local SHIIP volunteer Jim Solomon has helped save Clayton County seniors over $87,400 to date. He can help answer questions and solve problems related to: Medicare coverage, Medicare supplement insurance, long-term care insurance, Medicare and insurance claims and other related issues. SHIIP does not recommend insurance companies, plans or agents. Trained by the State of Iowa Insurance Division, Jim answers questions and provides impartial information to help people on Medicare make well-informed decisions.
Call 563-252-3215 to set up a private appointment. Appointments are held at the GMHC Family Resource Center, 514 South River Park Dr., Guttenberg.
Diabetes Support Group Third Wednesday of the Month
Open Forum Discussion: 5:30-6:30pm Learn tips from GMHC Health Coaches Visit with others who are Diabetic Meets third Wednesday of each month Wednesday, Sept. 18
GMHC 2nd Floor Classroom
Wednesday, Oct. 16 GMHC Education Center
Medicare Covers Yearly Preventative Screening Visits Did you know Medicare covers yearly preventative screening visits with your provider? Goals of these visits are health promotion, disease prevention and early detection. This is your opportunity to discuss health maintenance and prepare your personalized health plan with your provider. We are committed to improving the health of our community, one person at a time, but we need you to take the first step and call to schedule your appointment. Schedule your Medicare Preventative Health Visit today at one of our three Cornerstone Family Practice Clinics. GUTTENBERG 563-252-2141 200 Main Street
GARNAVILLO 563-964-2608 101 E Watson Street
EDGEWOOD 563-928-6435 The Update | Fall 2019 11 101 S Washington Street
Guttenberg Municipal Hospital & Clinics
200 Main Street Guttenberg, IA 52052 (563) 252-1121
Saturday, Sept. 28
Same Day Appointments – for your urgent care needs.
Start off GermanFest with a beautiful fall stroll along the scenic Mississippi at our 5K Walk/Run. Registration is only $10 and begins at 7:45am. Start time is 8:30am from GMHC parking lot.
Call (563) 252-2141 Cornerstone Family Practice - Guttenberg onday - Thursday: 8am-7pm M
Register online at getmeregistered. com/germanfest5k
Friday: 8am-5pm Saturday: 8am-12pm
GERMANFEST 5K WALK/RUN | SEPTEMBER 28, 2019
GMHC - An Optimal Setting for Skilled Care Our priority is to help our Skilled Care patients reach their highest potential for health and independence before transitioning home. For more information on GMHC Skilled Care services, please call 563-252-1121.
GMHC offers Skilled Care in our inpatient care unit. Led by our physicians, the GMHC Skilled Care team includes professionals from rehab services (physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy), respiratory therapy, dietary, nursing, social work, care coordination, and health coaching. While providing specialized care in an optimal care setting, we work closely with patients and their families to determine additional needs. We assist the patient in planning their transition from the hospital to the next level of care, whether it be home, assisted living, or care center. We will also help coordinate any additional resources you may need for a full recovery.
“
I am very thankful I chose GMHC Skilled Care for recovery from my recent knee surgery. I received excellent care and was reassured knowing my caregivers, from doctors to therapists, were all under one roof. Everyone was top-notch!” MAUREEN SCHROEDER, GMHC Skilled Care Patient