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WELCOME NEW HIRES
Aaliyah Davis, Medical Assistant
Abigail Huiskens, Respiratory Therapy Extern
Akeyia McBride, Nursing Assistant
Alisia Smith, HR Service Center Advisor
Aliyaha Warner, Nursing Assistant
Bethany Hilscher, Dietary Cashier
Brandis Givens, Host/Hostess
Brittney Stockwell, EEG Tech Trainee
Brody Schram, Host/Hostess
Byron Miller, Host/Hostess
Carmella Wansedel, OB Surgical Technician II
Charles Hinkle, Porter
Chase Nagy, Information Technology Extern
David Hagen, Surgical Services Supply Coordinator
Deonte Carter, Host/Hostess
Destiny Wilson, Host/Hostess
Edward Guzak, General Duty Nurse
Emily Allen, General Duty Nurse-BSN
Hannah Bleck, General Duty Nurse
Ivana McGee, Health Unit Coord Trainee
Jamarion Sanders, Pre-Grad Nurse Extern
Janet Schneberger, Registration Clerk
Jill Wolinski, General Duty Nurse-BSN
Juanita Kelly, Nursing Assistant
LaShawn Meniefield, OB Surgical Technician II
Latunya Rutherford, Environmental Aide
Maisha Robertson, Health Unit Coord Trainee
Mara Collins, General Duty Nurse
Margaret Brown, Host/Hostess
Michael Cuz II, General Duty Nurse
Monica McClain, Host/Hostess
Nicholas Ball, Painter
Quearahnisha Young, Nursing Assistant
Rebecca Dvorsky, IT Application Support Analyst
Rhonda Bell, Environmental Aide
Rhonda Keuning, Pre-Grad Nurse Extern
Sakinah Mahan, Host/Hostess
Seannae Gilbert, Nursing Assistant
Shawanda Hodges, Nursing Assistant
Tanaysha Gibbs, Nursing Assistant
Ticaria Sillman, Nursing Assistant
Tru-Main Douglas, Environmental Aide
Ziion Wiley, Laboratory Clerk
March
In the late 1940s and 1950s, Hurley introduced several new initiatives and renovations to benefit the community. These included educational programs such as the School of Radiologic Technology, the School of Anesthesia for nurse anesthetists and the School of Medical Technology.
In 1954, a new Emergency Department, located on the ground level facing Patrick Street, opened. In 1956, the 11-story northwestern (“C”) wing was completed.
In the late 1950s, Hurley became one of the first hospitals in the nation to launch an alcoholism therapy program and opened a dedicated unit specifically to treat alcoholic patients.
Mardi Gras (Fat
Purim begins (Jewish) Holi (Hindu)
Thank you, Grand Blanc, for naming Hurley the best hospital.
Hurley Medical Center is known for its innovation and expert care, and we’d like to thank the Grand Blanc readers for naming us the BEST Hospital in the Grand Blanc Best of the Best Awards!
VIEW NEWSPAPER
Hurley announces Team of the Season
Hurley Medical Center recognizes the Cardiac Rehabilitation and Pulmonary Rehabilitation teams for Team of the Season.
MID-MICHIGAN NOW NBC25
Flint Firebirds host “Spaghetti on Ice” fundraiser
The Flint Firebirds served spaghetti in their skates for a good cause. During their "Spaghetti on Ice" event, attendees enjoyed a plate of Italia Gardens pasta while donating to the Hurley Children's Hospital.
VIEW NEWSPAPER
Patients receiving even more focused attention with adoption of AI Tool
Hurley has partnered with Abridge, the leading generative AI platform for clinical conversations.
HOODLINE - DETROIT
Flint’s Hurley Medical Center integrates AI transcription tool Abridge to enhance patient care and efficiency
Hurley is adopting Abridge, an AI tool to reduce the documentation workload for medical professionals. Abridge quickly transcribes physician-patient conversations into detailed notes, giving doctors more time with patients.
IN THE NEWS
MID-MICHIGAN NOW NBC25
Hurley Medical Center using artificial intelligence for clinical conversations
Hurley is now using new technology to help assist doctors with patient care.
WNEM
Hurley Medical Center using AI to help doctors
Artificial Intelligence is the latest tool helping Hurley doctors care for their patients.
ABC12 NEWS
Hurley unveils new AI tool to help make caregivers more engaged with patients
Hurley is unveiling a new AI-driven tool to help caregivers respond to patients. The tool, called Abridge, records conversations between a patient and their doctor, and automatically creates notes directly in their chart.
ABC12 NEWS
Medical Monday: Depression
Brittany Fearn, a social worker at Hurley Medical Center, talked about depression treatment options.
MID-MICHIGAN NOW NBC25
PHOTOS: NICU babies celebrate Valentine's Day in style at Hurley Medical Center
for extraordinary nurses
DAISY AWARD – HEATHER MINOR, RN BSA
The DAISY Award recognizes exceptional nurses who provide skillful and compassionate care — those who go above and beyond for their patients and families. Heather Minor embodies everything this award symbolizes. Her nomination reads:
“My mom was admitted to Hurley after her white blood cell count dropped due to chemotherapy treatments. She developed an infection and issues with her throat, making
it difficult for her to communicate. She was transferred to 5E, where Heather became one of her nurses. Watching a nurse care for your mom as if she were her own mom was so special. Heather provided touch therapy and added a humidifier to help with her comfort. She also took the time to figure out which positions my mom was most comfortable in and made sure to communicate that to the oncoming nurses. The extra comfort measures were greatly appreciated, but unfortunately, my mom’s condition quickly declined. Throughout everything, Heather was respectful and responsive to both my mom’s needs and those of our family. She has a special way about her — something you can’t teach in school or training. The hardest day of my life was made a little easier knowing my mom had such a caring nurse by her side.”
Heather’s passion for caregiving began when she worked as a certified nursing assistant while attending college. It was during that time she realized she wanted to become a nurse. Heather shared, “I fell in love with taking care of people and believe in giving them the care I would want for my own family.” That philosophy has shaped her career ever since.
Heather was assigned to 5East and knew immediately that this was where she belonged. 5East is a unit that cares for patients with trauma, brain or spinal injuries, burns and many other medical conditions. Heather
said, “There are so many positive aspects of working on 5East, but at the same time, it can be emotionally demanding. Caring for trauma patients can be difficult. Caring for burn patients can be especially hard because their injuries can be excruciatingly painful. But watching their progress and improvement, and being there to support both the patient and their family, is beyond rewarding.”
Heather continued, “Our unit requires us to manage many different types of caregiving roles. We don’t just provide medical care — we do everything from administering medications, drawing blood, providing dressing changes and bathing patients, to providing education and emotional support for both the patient and their loved ones. I love my unit. It’s an amazing place. The team is the reason this is the place for me. We are one big family making sure we all make it through the day. It all starts with our manager, Kim Lipka. Kim is a wonderful person who pours herself into her work and her team.”
Heather had no idea she had been nominated for the DAISY Award. “I'll never forget this patient and her story, and it means so much that the family took the time to nominate me. I
was genuinely moved to tears. This patient and her family truly touched me,” Heather shared.
Heather also shared her own personal tragedy — the recent loss of her younger brother in a motorcycle accident. With emotion, she described him as her best friend and expressed how much she misses him. She described him as selfless, someone who would do anything for anyone in need, and always the funniest person in the room. She says that the memory of her brother helps guide her through difficult days, remembering that he would have made any day a good day, regardless of any struggles.
Heather grew up with all brothers — in addition to her brother who was 1 year younger, she also has a brother 5 years older and another 6 years older. At home, Heather has four boys of her own, ages 14, 10, 8 and 4. We shared stories about growing up with boys and then raising a house full of them. She also has two dogs — a Cavapoo and a Chihuahua.
Heather once again expressed her deep gratitude for her 5E team and her family. Her favorite way to spend her free time? Simply being with them.
Nominate an exceptional RN for the DAISY Award. Nomination forms are available in the Cafeteria, 8W Nursing Office and on the Hurley intranet.
Hurley Adds 'Abridge' AI for Better Patient Care
Hurley has recently invested in AI technology that transforms bedside conversations between patients and clinicians into structured clinical notes.
Hurley has partnered with Abridge, the leading generative AI platform for clinical conversations, to enhance the healthcare experience for both patients and clinicians.
“Abridge organizes the discussion in a way that captures the key points of our conversation without missing any important details," says Dr. Michael Roebuck, Chief Medical Information Officer. "Because Abridge helps me give my undivided attention to patients, they have been very receptive to me using it.”
The Abridge platform is the latest technology investment Hurley has made to improve the healthcare experience. It’s another reason Hurley has been named one of the World’s Best Smart Hospitals four times since 2021 by Newsweek Magazine. Hurley’s leadership team will continue to invest in technology that enhances the healthcare experience for both patients and clinicians.
New MSU Award to Honor Dr. Towfiq
In a commemorative photo, Dr. Towfiq stands with Dr. Charles Hong, chair of the Internal Medicine Department at MSU, and Dr. Churlsun Han, the lead clerkship director for the department.
Hurley Medical Center's Dr. Basim Towfiq is often recognized for the exceptional way he educates medical students and residents that Michigan State University has named an award in his honor.
MSU College of Human Medicine has not only created the Dr. Basim Towfiq Master Clinician Educator Award, Dr. Towfiq is the first recipient.
Dr. Towfiq is celebrating 30 years as a faculty member at Hurley. He has received 10 teaching awards, given by medical students at MSU CHM, who elect “best teachers” each graduating year. His name will now be engraved in plaques displayed in the MSU CHM Department of Medicine MVP Hall of Fame.
“I take my job as enjoyment. I really don’t think of it as a job,” says Dr. Towfiq. He believes in sharing his medical knowledge with future doctors and says, "I do the ritual every day. I teach every day and I love it."
As a teaching hospital, Hurley is fortunate to have Dr. Towfiq who is shaping generations of internal medicine physicians.
Healthy Living Virtual Educational Seminar
Topic: Brain Bleeds & Aging: Recognizing the Signs & Seeking Help
Christian A. Bowers, MD Neurological Surgery
On Thursday, February 20, Hurley hosted a virtual educational seminar focusing on a critical topic — Brain Bleeds & Aging. The session was led by Hurley neurosurgeon Dr. Christian Bowers, who aimed to equip participants with valuable knowledge about this common yet often misunderstood brain condition. Attendees also learned how brain bleeds can be effectively treated using modern surgical techniques.
To watch Dr. Bowers’ informative presentation, go to hurleymc.com.
If you have concerns about brain health or would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bowers, please call 810.262.7030.
Hurley Breast Program Earns Reaccreditation
Congratulations to the Hurley Comprehensive Breast Cancer Program on its reaccreditation from the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) through the American College of Surgeons.
As the only accredited breast cancer program in Genesee County, Hurley continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing local patients with every significant advantage in the fight against breast disease.
For more information on the Hurley Comprehensive Breast Cancer Program, visit: hurleymc.com
"I'm proud to be part of the Hurley Comprehensive Breast Cancer Program. This reaccreditation reflects our team's dedication to providing exceptional care and support to every patient in Genesee County, making a difference in the fight against breast cancer." -Jennifer Webb, Breast Nurse Navigator
Hi everyone, my name is Victoria!
I am 55 years old and I live in Genesee County. Before my auto accident, I weighed 150 pounds and had a huge social and dating life. I was healthy and in shape, playing ice hockey, volleyball and going to the gym. After my auto accident and three back surgeries, I gained
90 pounds. This took a huge toll on me both physically and mentally. I was sleeping on the couch for five years because it hurt too much to walk upstairs. I became severely depressed and was on 13 different medications for various health issues, including pre-diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, depression and more.
“There is no reason to wait for a healthier you.”
After six years of trying everything to lose weight on my own, I consulted with Dr. Wong and the team at Hurley. Now, 14 months after my surgery, I weigh 140 pounds. I’ve lost a total of 100 pounds and weigh even less than I did in my “after” photo! I am off all my medications except for my asthma medication, and I use my inhaler maybe once a
week when working out. All of my health numbers are normal, and I’m actually healthier now than I was before my auto accident. Oh, and I also started dating again after 10 years of hiding from a social life!
I want to tell everyone: Do not wait to have surgery! There is no reason to wait for a healthier you. The healing process was very easy, but it does take work and commitment to get there. You can do it!
A huge thank you to Dr. Wong and his staff — they are all amazing. I truly could not have done this without you.
Victoria Before & After Sleeve Gastrectomy
QUARTERLY WELLNESS HERO
AMY HOLMES, REGISTERED RESPIRATORY THERAPIST
Hurley Wellness celebrates employees who are passionate about health, whether that means they have achieved or are working toward a personal, mental or physical goal or that they foster a culture of wellness. Hurley’s Wellness Hero of the Quarter, Amy Holmes, embodies all aspects of the award by showing care and respect to others as well as to herself.
Amy has worked as a respiratory therapist for almost ten years. She started as an extern in 2014 while attending Baker College. Working in respiratory therapy demands that Amy focus on her patients and their families, and that is exactly what she does. She also focuses on her team, encouraging them to be healthier, both physically and mentally. Amy stated she was “very surprised that I was nominated for the Wellness Hero award. It is easy to motivate such a wonderful group when you have amazing, supportive leadership. I can honestly say that I am part of a team where we all encourage each other.”
Amy’s nomination supports her belief in motivation. Her nomination reads:
"Amy is not only personally working on her wellness through healthy eating habits, mental health practices, and being active, but she also motivates the department to be healthier. She always checks in on others' mental health and recently organized a department steps challenge. The challenge encouraged multiple members of the department to walk on the treadmill during the workday and take family walks when at home. Amy’s focus on wellness not only benefits her, but also her coworkers and their families. Amy is definitely a 'Wellness Hero.' She is a positive force within the department. She has personally inspired me
to be more aware of my health throughout the day and to literally take the extra steps toward healthy living."
In terms of wellness goals, Amy explains that “my direct supervisor, Amanda, as well as all the other supervisors are really good at motivating. They are very practical, are patient and knowledgeable and are always available. It is not difficult to be part of this positive team.” Respiratory therapy can have sad moments when taking care of patients. Amy believes “throughout the day you can sometimes feel yourself getting down. It is awesome to have the support of a lot of good people. My team has a great deal of empathy and definitely helps me.” Amy shared “I also set three intentions before I come to work; they are: I come to work to be helpful, present and make someone laugh.”
Amy exercises at home too. She likes to read and crochet. She loves plants, both indoor and outdoor. Amy has three wonderful girls ages 6, 17 and 19. Her husband is very supportive. He is a calm presence in their home. They will celebrate 15 years in September. Amy has a house full of pets, including three cats and two dogs. She shared fun stories about both. Her cats are named, Blueberry, Asscher and Rowdy, and her two Australian Shepherds, Bear and Luna. Bear likes to be heard and is very vocal. Amy, along with taking care of patients and families and motivating co-workers, created an on-line newsletter for her department. Amy noted “I enjoy sharing different stories and celebrating team members."
In recognition of her dedication to wellness, Amy received a Wellness medal, a gift certificate for Hurley wear and a $20 gift certificate for massage.
Who is your wellness hero? Go to the Hurley Wellness Website found on the Hurley intranet to nominate them today.
Hurley You
A monthly series that takes you behind the scenes, showcasing the teams and efforts that keep Hurley thriving, one department at a time.
YOU
HURLEY YOU: ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES Team Work Makes the Dream Work!
"A heartfelt thank you to the dedicated Environmental Services team, whose tireless efforts ensure our facility remains a clean and safe space for everyone. I truly appreciate their commitment and attention to detail, which directly contributes to the well-being of our patients, staff, and visitors."
-Monique Ruffin, Environmental Services Manager.
“I think of the 3rd shift as the gatekeepers. They triage every type of housekeeping situation. This is an awesome team, and I appreciate them.”
“Developing a good work ethic is key. Applying yourself to whatever you do, whether you are a janitor or taking your first summer job, because that work ethic will be reflected in everything you do in life.”
— Steven Garty, Team Leader.
Environmental Services (EVS) is a 24-hour, 7-days-a-week operation, comprised of 116+ employees.
In addition to a leadership team led by Monique Ruffin, the team consists of housekeepers who serve as both environmental aides and environmental techs. Environmental aides perform daily cleaning (high dusting, wall washing, vacuuming and light trash removal).
Environmental techs perform floor care (stripping and waxing), carpet cleaning and biohazard removal. Trash techs remove and dispose of large carts of trash into the compactor. First shift is primarily responsible for cleaning patient rooms and communicating with patients. Second shift handles housekeeping and also includes six bed makers for patient discharges and admissions. Third shift maintains housekeeping, has one bed maker and handles any emergencies that may occur.
1st Shift Team: Latrish Reed, Robert Hilton, Raynell Stribling, Myra Leeper, Lynita Sweet, Joann Carter, Monique Ruffin, Chanika Baker, Shamika Thompson Eveline Gregory Trimel Pharms, Trina Isaac, Shandra Brown, Kendra Bryant, Steven Garty, Keith Dixon, Candisha Boone-Tolbert, John Williams
Christian Harden, Albert Michailian, Rebecca Alston, Kimberly Hatch, Twylla Walker, Courtney Steels, Phil Johnson, Eveline Gregory, Quintez Sims, Bryan Jones HURLEY
EVS works diligently to ensure a clean, safe and welcoming environment for patients, visitors and staff alike. They manage waste, disinfect surfaces and adhere to strict sanitation protocols. Day-to-day activities include routine cleaning of patient rooms, surgical rooms, common areas, restrooms, waste disposal and specialized cleaning procedures for hazardous materials. They are required to know the appropriate cleaning agents, disinfectants and personal protective equipment required for different situations. They adhere to local, state and federal regulations related to healthcare sanitation standards, including Joint Commission guidelines.
Patient care extends to every aspect of the hospital experience, including EVS. They not only clean patient and public areas but also perform the vital service of protecting patients, visitors and staff from infectious pathogens. Proper cleaning of clinical spaces not only has a direct impact on patient health outcomes, but the perception of clean non-clinical areas significantly influences our patient satisfaction scores. The Patient Satisfaction Survey (HCAHPS) includes questions related to the quality of our environment, which measures how patients perceive our cleanliness. As a result, EVS must ensure that both clinical and non-clinical areas are not only pathogen-free but also appear clean to the naked eye to bolster our HCAHPS scores.
EVS is a dedicated team that plays a critical role in maintaining a clean and safe environment here at Hurley. Every day, they go above and beyond to maintain the highest standards of cleanliness throughout our facility, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for all who enter. Their dedication to their work is truly commendable, and we are grateful for their commitment!
Lanika Bell, Fernando Davison, Monique Ruffin Steven Garty
Eddie Munoz
Chanika Baker
T'’challa Banks
DID YOU KNOW?
EVS had one Xenex LightStrike robot and now has four. The LightStrike is an FDA authorized medical device that uses ultraviolet (UV) light to kill germs and pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi and bacterial spores. The Xenex LightStrike gives Hurley an extra line of defense against pathogens, assisting in our infection control program.
EVS FACTS
EVS cleans almost all of Hurley, which is just under a million square feet.
EVS cleans over 150 patient rooms daily.
EVS has many loyal employees who have been in the department for 20 and 30 years:
• 20 years: Brenda Adams, William Cooper, Onka Henderson, Tojauna Jones, Albert Michailian, Trimel Pharms, Tammy Richards, William Rodney, Kepsa Thomas
• 30 years: Steven Garty, Dennis Harrison, Eduardo Munoc
monthly newsletter for the physicians of Hurley Medical Center.
MAY 20, 2025 – Tuesday Hyatt Place, Hill Road, Flint
“Treatment of Alcohol and Opioid Use Disorders: Best Practices for Outpatient & Emergency Settings”
Approved for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit ™
New Providers
It is our pleasure to welcome the following providers to Hurley Medical Center. We thank you for collaborating with us to provide quality healthcare to our patients. We value your commitment and appreciate your service.
Pediatrics
Stacy Frye, MD
Pediatric Orthopedics/Sports
Medicine
Sports Medicine and Orthopedics of Grand Blanc
8203 S. Saginaw St.
Suite B
Grand Blanc, MI 48439
Phone: (810) 498-4181
Fax: (810) 866-4397
Pediatrics
Anne McCall, NP
Nurse Practitioner
Providers TEK
4700 Greenfield Rd
Suite 2E
Dearborn, MI 48126
Phone: (313) 740-1111
Fax: (313) 672-6241
Surgery
Lindsey Rieck, DO
Trauma/Surgical Critical Care
Hurley Trauma Services
One Hurley Plaza
7B Trauma Services Dept. Flint, MI 48503
Phone: (810) 262-9355
Fax: (810) 262-6341
Continuing Education Requirements for Michigan Medical Doctors
Authority: Public Act 368 of 1978, as amended
REQUIREMENTS FOR RENEWAL
The continuing education requirements apply to every physician renewing a Michigan medical license, who has been licensed in the 3-year period immediately preceding the application for renewal. The requirements apply whether or not the physician is actively engaged in the practice of medicine. No one, including medical school faculty and resident physicians, is exempt from this requirement.
Each medical doctor is required to complete 150 hours of continuing education in courses or programs approved by the Board of Medicine, of which a minimum 75 hours of the required 150 hours must be earned in courses or programs designated as Category 1 programs.
• A minimum of 1 hour of continuing education must be earned in the area of Medical Ethics.
• A minimum of 3 hours of continuing education must be earned in the area of Pain and Symptom Management, and at least 1 of the 3 hours must include controlled substance prescribing.
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) MANDATORY TRAINING STANDARDS
• LARA requires a one-time mandatory training in Opioids and Other Controlled Substances Awareness for prescribers and dispensers of controlled substances.
• LARA requires a one-time mandatory training in Identifying Victims of Human Trafficking.
• LARA requires a minimum of three hours, every 3-year renewal cycle, in Implicit Bias Training.
For more information or questions, please visit: michigan.gov/lara
DEA Training Requirement via the MATE Act
The Medication Access and Training Expansion (MATE) Act, part of the federal Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023, requires ALL new or renewing DEA-registered practitioners who prescribe schedule II, III, IV or V drugs to undergo a one-time, eight-hour training requirement incorporating education on the treatment and management of patients with opioid and other substance use disorders.
See Michigan State Medical Society (MSMS) for further FAQs at: msms.org > NEWS
HURLEY YEARLY CME ATTENDANCE REPORT
If you attended a Hurley Medical Center CME activity in 2024, your Annual CME Attendance Report has been sent to you. Please contact the CME Department at 810.262.9142 or email: ContactCME@hurleymc.com, if you have any questions or did not receive your report.
NOTE: You will need this report for your medical license renewal.
Hurley Online CME Courses
The following are free Hurley CME on Demand courses that have been approved for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™:
• Advances in OB Pain Management
(This activity fulfills the CE requirements for pain and symptom management.)
• Ethical Challenges
(This activity fulfills the CE requirements for medical ethics.)
• Hypertension Management in the Hospitalized Child
• Human Trafficking and the Role of the Healthcare Provider
(This activity fulfills the LARA mandatory training standards for identifying victims of human trafficking.)
Physician Support Line is a national, free and confidential support line service made up of 600+ volunteer psychiatrists, joined together in the determined hope to provide peer support for our physician colleagues and medical students. Physician Support Line was created with the mission of physicians supporting physicians as we navigate the many professional and personal intersections of our lives. Physician Support Line promises to provide emotional support and a safe holding space for physicians and medical students.
For more information or questions, please visit: www.physiciansupportline.com or Facebook: Physician Support Line @PhysicianLine