As we begin 2025, we thank each of you in all of your various roles for your unwavering commitment to our mission: Clinical Excellence, Service to People.
As an independent hospital, our challenges are heightened, however, our dedication to the community is unparalleled. As we continue to introduce Hurley services to the region and beyond, we know we will be a beacon of hope to so many who choose Hurley Medical Center and all of you.
Looking ahead, we will continue to strive for even greater heights as we fulfill our mission with purpose and passion.
We wish you all a New Year of joy, good health, and welldeserved moments of celebration. Here's to a wonderful 2025 filled with success, gratitude, and the incredible work that defines Hurley Medical Center!
Sincerely,
The Hurley Executive Team
EDITORIAL
PHOTOGRAPHER
Send your stories and photos to the editor at Puhde1@hurleymc.com
FOLLOW HURLEY
• Facebook: @hurleymedicalcenter
• Instagram: @hurleymedicalcenter
• YouTube: @HurleyMedicalCenter1
• X/Twitter: @HurleyMedical
WELCOME NEW HIRES
Aaliyah Pruitt, Nurse Extern
Adrianna Hairston, Medical Assistant
Alonna Jones, Host/Hostess
America Herrera, Information Tech Scribe Extern
Anea Harvey, Environmental Aide
Amber Rider-Sanchez, Nurse Extern
Annese Gaines, Environmental Aide
Autumn Bailey, General Duty Nurse-BSN
Hailey Haner, Patient/Unit Aide
Bobbie Celli, Nurse Extern
Breann June, Graduate Nurse
Breanna VanRiper, Nurse Extern
Briana Means, Nurse Extern
Brooke Parsons, General Duty Nurse-BSN
CaRon Darkins, Social Work Case Manager
Chad Eickhoff, Physical Therapist Assistant
Christine Gill, Graduate Nurse
Christine Hignite, Trauma Registrar
Chrystin Schultz, Physical Therapist Assistant
Clarence Hopkins III, Senior Cook
Crystal Maier, General Duty Nurse
Davon King, Host/Hostess
Deekayla Jackson, Patient/Unit Aide
Deja Redmond, General Duty Nurse
Dimitrian Copeland, Environmental Aide
Eleena Hubbard, Assistant Biller
FaNisha McClain, Patient/Unit Aide
Haley Smith, Radiology Assistant Intern
India Bennett Edwards, Sterile Processor
JaQualian Horton, Environmental Aide
James Rosseau, Public Safety Officer
Jasmine Irvin, Mental Health Technician
Jesse Benjamin, Environmental Aide
Jillian DeGroat, Graduate Nurse
Jonaa Wilson, Host/Hostess
Kaleigh Shoens, Public Safety Officer
Katrina Hodgeson, Physical Therapist Assistant
Kealen Gilbert, Environmental Aide
Keber Wooten-Murry, Social Worker
Kiera Osborne, Graduate Nurse
Lajoi Goff, Environmental Aide
LaToya Cooper, Nursing Assistant
Marcus Batson, Social Worker
Margaret Brown, Host/Hostess
Mario Harris, Senior Cook
Maurice Thomas, Public Safety Officer
Meagan Brink, General Duty Nurse-BSN
Megan Rossbach, Pre-Grad Nurse Extern
Molly Thompson, General Duty Nurse BSN
Mosley LaCreasha, Insurance Services Specialist
Norma DeMott, General Duty Nurse
Olivia Eaton, Sterile Processor
Robin Bethka, Physical Therapist Assistant
Ronell Watson, Environmental Aide
Ryan Webster, Graduate Nurse
Safiyah El-Ganainy, Nurse Extern
Santoya Davis, Patient/Unit Aide
Shaquandra Larry, General Duty Nurse
Stephanie Hunter, Utilization Review Coord
Summer Salyer, Medical Assistant
Taleah Stewart, Respiratory Therapist-Reg
Tequila Williams, Health Unit Coord Trainee
Terria Booker, Host/Hostess
Tianna Boyd Cleaver, Graduate Nurse
Tiara Wilson, Mental Health Technician
Zackery White, Senior Cook
Zariah Garner, Nursing Assistant Trainee
Ziion Wiley, Laboratory Clerk
2/1 – National Freedom Day
2/1-2/9 – Race Equality Week
2/10 – Rosa Parks Day
2/11 – International Day of Women and Girls in Science
2/14 – Valentine’s Day
2/17 – National Random Acts of Kindness Day
2/28 – Ramadan Begins (Muslim)
HURLEY FACTS - 1930'S
As a result of World War II, the 1930s were a time of unprecedented changes in public health policy, medical advances and innovations. The war hastened many medical advances. The need for beds for injured military forced earlier post-surgery ambulation, which was found to be safe and beneficial. Hurley hospital administrators adapted to the community’s needs, with the first outpatient clinics opening in the 1930’s.
ABC12 News
Hurley bariatric surgeon discusses weight loss options
Dr. Kristoffer Wong, a Hurley Bariatric surgeon from the Hurley Comprehensive Weight Loss Center discussed different weight loss options.
ABC12 News
Hurley Medical Center reveals top baby names of 2024
MLive
Top baby names of 2024: Hurley Medical Center reveals popular picks for newborns
Mid-Michigan NOW NBC25
Hurley Medical Center reveals top baby names for 2024
Beautiful names were chosen for both boys and girls born at Hurley Medical Center during 2024.
WNEM TV5
Hurley Medical Center announces 2024’s top baby names
ABC12 News
Norovirus cases ticking up around Mid-Michigan this winter
Dr. Kaitlin Liroff, an infectious disease specialist at Hurley Medical Center, explained the connection.
IN THE NEWS
WNEM TV5 - New Year's Baby
Mid-Michigan hospitals celebrating first babies born in 2025.
Mid-Michigan NOW NBC25
Hurley Medical Center welcomes first baby of the New Year!
Iris Elyza Koch was welcomed to the world at noon!
MLIVE
Flint’s Hurley Medical Center delivers first baby of 2025
Florence Koch, and her husband Kyle Koch, pose for a photo with their newborn daughter, Iris Elyza Koch, at the Hurley Medical Center in Flint on Wednesday, Jan. 1.
ABC12
Hurley Comprehensive Weight Loss Center offers help with New Year goals
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Myckayla Myers offers helpful information on weight loss.
Mid-Michigan NOW NBC25
Doctors in Flint warn of rising RSV and COVID cases as CDC reports national illness spike
Hurley Infectious Disease Physician, Dr. Mariam Younas, interviewed regarding rise in RSV and COVID cases.
for extraordinary nurses
DAISY AWARD – BRAD BESSETTE, RN, BSN
Brad Bessette, RN, BSN, is this month’s DAISY Award Honoree. The DAISY Award celebrates the extraordinary compassion a nurse shows to patients and their families. Brad’s nomination supports his compassion, “My 6yr old went into septic shock and was admitted to PICU. Once his symptoms were under control, we were sent to peds. Brad was our 3rd shift nurse that first day. He came in and was immediately caring and empathetic. He listened to all questions and concerns and then addressed each one.
He took my child’s pain seriously and listened to his limits. My child’s IV had seized up, and he was crying in pain. Brad carefully checked it, found a leak and then, carefully removed it. He called in the IV team to replace it. He talked my child through every step. He went above and beyond to calm our nerves and attend to my child’s needs. Brad is a very empathetic guy with a great bedside manner.”
Brad was meant to be a pediatric nurse. He grew up in the Lapeer area, attending Lapeer East High School. Prior to attending college, he worked at a rehabilitation center for children. Brad shared how working there was stressful but also rewarding. Stressful in that so many hardships occurred and rewarding that he was able to support the health, safety and growth of young people. “Working at the rehabilitation center, I knew I wanted to help people. I really enjoyed working with children and knew that was the course for me,” Brad noted. “My experience helping children led me to pursue nursing.” Brad attended University of MichiganFlint achieving his BSN degree.
Brad shares a home with both parents. He noted growing up in Lapeer was definitely in the country. His father is in the automotive repair industry and actually owns his own shop. While encouraging Brad to pursue automotive, Brad chose nursing. He shared how both his parents were very supportive and encouraging. They believed in him the entire time.
His mom is his rock. Brad mentioned his aunt Kimmy, who is a pharmacist and a strong supporter. She helped and encouraged him while he was attending nursing school. Brad recognized Margie Murray-Wright, an educator at UofM-Flint. He shared how Margie helped him get into nursing school. He referenced Maureen Tippen who was his theory instructor for pediatrics at UofM. Brad also recognized his coworkers on peds. They are an amazing team.
Brad has been at Hurley in pediatrics for five years and noted that he would not want to be anywhere else. He expressed that he continues to receive tremendous support. He referenced Tanya Brown, the peds assistant nurse manager. Brad noted that Tanya continuously provides assistance and encouragement. Brad noted, “I am not one to want attention, but I truly appreciate being recognized for the DAISY Award. I was very nervous and did not want the extra credit, but I am honored. I take my
responsibilities very seriously. My primary goal is to make certain that the kids and the parents are taken care of. I want the parents to know that their child will be okay. I consider it very fulfilling to know when someone is experiencing a difficult time, I can try and change that.”
Brad enjoys video gaming in his spare time. He highlighted how amazing it is to participate in a game and have the opportunity to meet people from all over the country and the world. He shared how he learns about all different types of people, their beliefs and preferences. He has made many out-of-state and overseas friends along the way through his interest in gaming.
Congratulations, Brad!
Nominate an exceptional RN for the DAISY Award. Nomination forms are available in the Cafeteria, 8W Nursing Office and on the Hurley intranet.
Feb. 28: National Thank-a-Resident Day
RECOGNIZING OUR RESIDENT PHYSICIANS
Resident physicians at Hurley come from all over the state, country and world, and we appreciate that they care for ~70% of Hurley patients.
Some individual residency-training programs at Hurley have periodic recognition programs as another way for residents to receive feedback on their excellent work. Here’s one example from the Internal Medicine Residency Program. See sidebar for other resident physicians recognized so far this year. If you would like to recognize and help celebrate residents, look for the link to our Thank-A-Resident survey (on page 13).
Rami Al-Handola, MD, was celebrated as the Internal Medicine Resident of the Month for November 2024. This recognition celebrates an extraordinary resident who is an integral member of the Internal Medicine healthcare team who is committed to providing compassionate care to Hurley patients and their families. This award allows Internal Medicine to shine the light on some residents. It also provides an opportunity to read more about their stories and their area of focus that is shaping their careers.
Dr. Al-Handola’s nomination confirms his commitment to care, as it reads: “Rami is an excellent senior. He cares about the patients. He is dedicated to his job and tries as hard as he can to know his patients very well. Moreover, the most powerful side of him is how much he likes to teach. He cares about the junior residents with him and teaches them—guiding them to read and to prepare well. He is being recognized for his hard work and his love of teaching. Keep it up Rami!”
About being nominated for the honor, Dr. Al-Handola said, “It’s truly an honor to be recognized by my peers, and this nomination reinforces my commitment to providing the best care possible for our patients. It’s also a reflection of the supportive and collaborative environment we have as a team, and I’m grateful to be part of such a great group of individuals.”
Dr. Al-Handola earned his medical degree from the University Faculty of Medicine, Egypt. He specifically came to the U.S. to attend Hurley’s three-year internal medicine residency training program. The program at Hurley provides an opportunity to gain the skills, knowledge and experience necessary to pursue a successful career in primary-care medicine or to continue their training in a range of medical subspecialties. Upon his graduation, Dr. AlHandola will go on to complete his national board exams.
Rami has always been one of the most compassionate of our doctors here. He repeatedly stays after hours to counsel patients and to get the full history from them. This is not just their medical conditions, but their personal lives as well. Rami will make an excellent critical care physician. -Charles Swanson, MD
Originally from Nineveh, Iraq, Dr. Al-Handola decided to become a physician because: “I have always wanted to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, whether for patients or students. I am passionate about science and have a deep desire to help others. Medicine offers a tremendous opportunity to solve complex problems, provide care and contribute to medical education—elements that bring me personal fulfillment.”
Colleagues have noted that Dr. Al-Handola is a natural leader and teacher who willingly shares his knowledge to help others become knowledgeable physicians. It is important to him to help his colleagues be the best they can be. Internal Medicine is a difficult field.
When Dr. Al-Handola graduates from Hurley’s Internal Medicine Residency Program in June, he plans to enter a Pulmonary and Critical Care Fellowship at Henry Ford Warren Hospital, Michigan. Dr. Al-Handola explained that some Internal Medicine physicians choose to take additional training to "subspecialize" in a more focused area of internal medicine. Subspecialty training (often called a "fellowship") usually requires an additional one to three years beyond the basic three-year internal medicine residency.
The training an internal medicine physician receives to subspecialize in a particular medical area is both broad and deep and qualifies them to manage very complex medical issues and - in many cases - perform advanced clinical procedures.
Though Dr. Al-Handola has certainly worked hard and put in many hours to achieve his goals, he still makes time for fun, non-medical activities.
“Michigan has a lot to offer, and my family and I enjoy trying new restaurants, exploring new places and appreciating each season that this beautiful state has to offer,” he said.
To Thank-a-Resident, use link:
https://forms.gle/p5M9NirnX62NJtBd7
Other resident honorees
Hurley staff hears compliments about our resident physicians every day. Some residencytraining programs give special recognition to residents periodically throughout the year, based on nominations/voting from within their own specialties - and they all talk about how medical care is a true team effort - good patient care is never about a single employee. Yet resident physicians are also teachers of junior residents, medical students and other members of the health-care team. That’s why so many are lauded for their teaching and their modeling of excellent patient care and professionalism. Hurley celebrates all of our resident physician providers.
Internal Medicine
October: Mariam Mehdawi MD, IM PGY3
November: Rami Al-Handola MD, IM PGY3
December: Abdulaziz Elbaage MD, IM PGY3
Pediatrics
Block 2: Nesma Ghanim MD, Peds PGY3
Block 3: Mai Elhadi MD, Peds PGY3
Block 4: Salsabeel Swiedan MD Peds PGY2 (tie)
Block 4: Mawada Abbaker MD Peds PGY2 (tie)
Block 5: Sevgi Dasdemir MD PGY3 (tie)
Block 5: Maen Kamal MD Peds PGY3 (tie)
Block 6: Yousra Elsharif MD Peds PGY2 (tie)
Block 6: Nesma Ghanim MD PGY3 (tie)
Block 7: Ahmed Akila MD
To see future honorees, visit the Residencies and Fellowships section of the Hurley Graduate Medical Education website - and select a specific residencytraining program, where honorees are listed on the Resident page.
Saturday, April 26,
Friday, June 13, 2025 Colonial Lanes - Flushing
Monday, September 15, 2025
Thursday, October 23, 2025
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.
HURLEY YOU: LACTATION
SERVICES FOR WOMEN
"The Hurley Children's Center breastfeeding clinic is available to anyone in the community, not just Hurley patients. The clinic appointments are one hour in length allowing us to provide a comprehensive feeding evaluation with a hands-on IBCLC lactation consultant, as well as a medical evaluation with myself. We encourage mothers and their support team to come as often as they need to support their breastfeeding goals. Some of the most common reasons families come to the breastfeeding clinic include latching challenges, inadequate weight gain of the infant, maternal concerns about milk supply, support for returning to work and pumping, and sometimes support to start breastfeeding. It is an incredible honor to be part of families’ breastfeeding journeys! Each family's breastfeeding experience and needs are different and having a clinic designed to provide individualized care is an amazing thing to be part of.”
-Gwendolyn Reyes, MD
“Our goal is to never force women to breastfeed. We are always going to support women in their plan and have supportive practices in place for them.”
-Kate Mataway, RN, BSN, IBCLC
Hurley’s lactation consultants
Lauren Crenshaw, RN, BSN, IBCLC; Kate Mataway, RN, BSN, IBCLC and Katie Watts, RN, IBCLC, are Hurley’s lactation consultants. All are RN’s (Registered Nurses) and IBCLC’s (International Board Certified Lactation Consultants). The International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners provides this certification, which signifies that our lactation consultants have the necessary expertise and training to provide specialized breastfeeding care and management to families. Kate noted, “Essentially, this is the highest level of lactation specialty available, demonstrating that Hurley has the best in this field.”
“Breastfeeding may not always be exclusive to nursing at the breast. Many mothers utilize breast pumps and bottle systems to ensure continuity when separated from their baby or when sharing feeding responsibilities with other family members. Kate noted, “Our lactation consultants are here to support moms through every aspect of their breastfeeding journey, whatever method feels right for mom and baby.” -Kate Mataway, RN, BSN, IBCLC.
CONSULTANTS
Advancement of breastfeeding and lactation education
Research supports the importance of educating on breastfeeding, but it has only been recently included in the medical school curriculum. Hurley implemented a pediatric residency program that uses the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) curriculum on breastfeeding and lactation. Kate noted, “There is no requirement that hospitals provide this training. Hurley is sending physicians into the world with this information that they might not have otherwise learned.”
"As the pediatric residency program director, it has been critical to integrate our pediatric residents into the process to support our breastfeeding moms at Hurley. The more hands-on experience they are able to get during their training, the more comfortable they will be supporting breastfeeding families regardless of the specific area of pediatrics they plan to enter after their residency.”
-Gwendolyn Reyes, MD
Hurley lactation data
Our data indicates 78% of moms to birth are interested in breastfeeding but when mom is discharged, that number drops to 25%. “That percentage has not changed since 2015. The main reason moms stop breastfeeding is because they do not think they have enough milk. We work to educate and reassure moms that they do have enough milk by closely monitoring the weight of mom and the baby. A 2oz bottle is given to the baby, when in actuality, a newborn can sustain 5mL. It is really upsetting.” Hurley, to address this issue,
implemented a Quality Improvement (QI) project in the newborn nursery. The goal was to identify improvements to help mom. “Since implementation of this project, the rate has doubled. It is now about 49% when moms are discharged. There is still room for improvement, but this alone is huge. We are grateful that we have been able to help moms,” Katie noted.
“The biggest thing you need is support at both the family and employer level or breastfeeding is not going to work. There is a lot that falls into it. The pressure should never be put on the mother of making that decision or expect to make it work by herself.”
Policy development
Our lactation consultants assist with the development of policies relating to lactation. “We are currently working with Dr. Yaseen Rafee, a pediatric infectious disease physician, to establish a policy for HIV moms and breastfeeding here at Hurley. This is currently in process and almost approved,” Kate noted.
Hurley employee pumping stations
Hurley provides a private space where employees can pump. There are two pumping pods located in the 4west rotunda. Kate noted.
“The Hurley Children's Center also has a pumping pod. It is available for all of the learners, providers and staff to use. We have a hospital grade pump available for use and do provide the needed supplies for free to our resident physicians.” -Gwendolyn Reyes, MD
BREASTFEEDING RESOURCES
Breastfeeding Support Clinic
Become familiar with breastfeeding techniques and find the most comfortable position. When: Tuesdays, 1pm to 4pm by appointment only. Where: Hurley Children’s Center, in the Flint Farmers’ Market at 300 E. 1st Street. To Schedule a Virtual or In-Person Appointment: Call 810.262.9773
You can also call the Lactation Warm Line at 810.262.9480. You will be asked to leave a message and one of our lactation consultants will return your call within 24 hours.
Lactation Support Contacts
• Hurley Lactation Consultants: 810.262.9480 (Leave a message with your phone number)
• Hurley NICU Breastfeeding Support Committee: 810.262.9181
• Genesee County WIC Office Peer Counselors: 810.667.0448
• Shiawassee County WIC Office Peer Counselors: 989.743.2383
• MIHP Health Start Home Visits: 810.262.9317
Breastfeeding Guide for Download/Print
Feeding the Preterm Infant Guide/Print
Virtual tours of Hurley Birthing Center Tour In-person, call: 810.262.9480
Hurley Employee Pumping Stations
Employees can make an appointment from the Hurley Intranet.
Hurley Women & Children's Services
Register online for Childbirth education classes
If you are at least 20 weeks along, now is the time to register for the Free Pampers® Childbirth Education Classes. This 9-part series, led by clinical childbirth experts, provides in-depth information for new parents on all stages of the childbirth journey— from contractions and stages of labor to breastfeeding and check-ups. For more information, scan QR code above.
KATE MATAWAY, RN, BSN, IBCLC: A Passionate Advocate for Lactation Support
This is my passion, this is my calling. I would not do anything else. I went to nursing school specifically to do this.
Kate Mataway, RN, BSN, IBCLC is a Hurley lactation consultant who, on a regular basis, navigates a variety of challenging breastfeeding situations with different mothers and babies. She helps to provide expert support and guidance to moms who need help overcoming obstacles like poor latch, low milk supply or complex medical needs. She encounters many scenarios and emotional moments, as she helps to empower families to achieve successful breastfeeding journeys. Kate shared that she once was a mother who experienced her own obstacles and how it shaped her future career path. Kate’s background is pharmacy technician, and she initially attended pharmacy school at Wayne State.
Kate happily found herself pregnant. She was a mother who was determined to breastfeed. “You think that women have done it since the beginning of time and that it cannot be that difficult,” Kate noted. Her daughter was born and did not latch. There was nobody in her family who could help her. Her first daughter was less than 24 hours old and it was 9/11/2001. The hospital went into lockdown. There was no lactation person who came in to work that day. Kate struggled, asked for formula and her first daughter was formula fed. “I wanted to do this so badly. I felt as though I had failed,” noted Kate.
When she got pregnant with her second daughter, she was determined to do better. She did some research and found out about lactation consultants. Her second daughter was born preterm, jaundiced and tongue tied. She met with the lactation consultant, who taught her so much. “The lactation consultant was the first person to do a breast exam and also examined the baby’s mouth. When I learned it was based on the breast and mouth anatomy, it took away my guilt. That was huge. I could not do it without her.”
“She is the one who inspired me to be a lactation consultant. She told me to go to nursing school, and I did. It took me 9 years to achieve, from the time I started my first class to getting hired to the parent education/lactation department at Hurley,” Kate noted. “Women need someone to help guide and teach them. Otherwise, there are so many challenges.” Kate went on to share that with her third child, a girl, she latched and fed perfectly. Kate noted, “It was what my younger self imagined about breastfeeding the baby. That hospital experience is so important to a good start with breastfeeding.”
Lactation consultant –“How to become one”
To become a lactation consultant, you typically need to complete at least 90 hours of lactationspecific, gain clinical experience in lactation care through hands-on practice and pass the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) exam, which requires a combination of college-level health science courses and communication skills training related to lactation.
2025 HEALTH OBSERVANCES
Please make note of these observances, as they are now only published once a year.
JANUARY 2025
Cervical Cancer Screening Month
Glaucoma Awareness
Integrative Health Month
Medical Travel Month
National Birth Defect Prevention Month
National Blood Donor Month
National Human Trafficking Month
National Radon Action Month
Thyroid
FEBRUARY 2025
Age-Related Macular Degeneration Awareness Month
American Heart Month
National Cancer Prevention Month
National Children’s Dental Health Month
National
MARCH
Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month
Brain Injury Awareness Month
Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month
Child Life Month
Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
Multiple Sclerosis Education and Awareness Month
National Endometriosis Awareness Month
National Kidney Month
National Nutrition Month
Regenerative Medicine Awareness Month
Save Your Vision Month
Social Work Month
Workplace Eye Wellness Month
1-7
Day
National Hospitalist Day
9-15 Patient Safety Awareness Week
Pulmonary Rehabilitation Week
Sleep Awareness Week
10-14 Health Care HR Week
10-16 Brain Awareness Week
12-15 Medical Genetics Awareness Week
13 Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day
16-22
17-23
National Poison Prevention Week
National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week
Telehealth Awareness Week
Oral Health Day
Down Syndrome Day
Tuberculosis Day
Doctors Day
APRIL 2025
Alcohol Awareness Month
Child Abuse Prevention Month
Donate Life Month
Facial Protection Month
Foot Health Awareness Month
March for Babies
Minority Health Month
National African American Women’s Fitness Month
National Limb Loss & Difference Awareness Month
Occupational Therapy Month
Parkinson’s Awareness Month
STI Awareness Month
Stress Awareness Month
18-24 Health Information Professionals Week
20-26 Medical Laboratory Professionals Week Pediatric Sepsis Week
21-25
Professionals
Youth Violence Prevention Week
MAY 2025
Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month
Better Hearing and Speech Month
Better Sleep Month
Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month Global Employee Healthy Vision Month
Hepatitis Awareness Month
Huntington’s Awareness Month
Lupus Awareness Month
Melanoma & Skin Cancer Awareness Month
Mental Health Awareness Month
Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
National Arthritis Awareness Month
National Critical Care Awareness Month
National High Blood Pressure Education Month
National Nurses Month
National Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month
National Trauma Awareness Month
National Women’s Health Month
Neurofibromatosis Awareness Month
Older Americans Month
Oncology Nursing Month
Osteoporosis Month
and Health Professionals Day
Sepsis Week National Hospital Week National Skilled Nursing Care Week
Women’s Health Week
&
Pathologist Day
19-25 Health Care Documentation Integrity Week Health Care Tech Management Week Respiratory Care Week
Senior Health & Fitness Day
JUNE 2025
Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month
Cataract Awareness Month
CPR and AED Awareness Month
Liver Health Matters Month
Men’s Health Month
Migraine and Headache Awareness Month
National Hernia Awareness Month
National Safety Month
PTSD Awareness Month
Scleroderma Awareness Month
Scoliosis Awareness Month
Care Recruiter Recognition Day
and AED Awareness Week
6-12 Health Care Executives Appreciation Week
9-13
Health Improvement Week
2025 HEALTH OBSERVANCES
Please make note of these observances, as they are now only published once a year.
9-15 Men’s Health Week
12-18 National Nursing Assistants Week
13 Wear Blue Friday (Men’s Health Awareness)
14 World Blood Donor day
16-20 Health Care Risk Management Week
19 World Sickle Cell Awareness Day
27 National HIV Testing Day
27 PTSD Awareness Day
29 World Scleroderma Day
JULY 2025
Cord Blood Awareness Month
Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month
National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month
UV Safety Month
6-12 National Therapeutic Recreation Week
7-13 Childhood Obesity Week
28 World Hepatitis Day
AUGUST 2025
Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month
National Breastfeeding Month
National Immunization Awareness Month
National Minority Donor Awareness Month
Neurosurgical Awareness Month
Psoriasis Action Month
Spinal Muscular Atrophy Awareness Month
1-7 World Breastfeeding Week
3-9 National Health Center Week
23-29 Health Unit Coordinator Recognition Week
31 International Overdose Awareness Day
Physician Family Day
SEPTEMBER 2025
Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month
Blood Cancer Awareness Month
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
Childhood Injury Prevention Month
Disaster Preparedness Month
Food Safety Education Month
Gene Therapy and Specialty
Global Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month
Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month
Healthy Aging Month
National Cholesterol Education Month
National Recovery Month
National Suicide Awareness Month
Newborn Screening Awareness Month
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
Pain Awareness Month
Pediatric Awareness Month
Prostate Health Month
Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month
Reye’s Syndrome Awareness Month
Sepsis Awareness Month
Sickle Cell Awareness Month
Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month
1-7
National Childhood Injury Prevention Week
8 Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses’ Day
World Physical Therapy Day
7-13 Assisted Living Week
8-14
Health Care Environmental Services Week
Vascular Nurses Week
10 World Suicide Prevention Day
14-20
15
15-21
17
21
National Professional Development Week
Neonatal Nurses Day
National Farm Safety and Health Week
Rehabilitation Awareness Week
Surgical Technologist Week
National Physician Suicide Awareness Day
World Alzheimer’s Day
21-27 Child Passenger Safety Week
26
Human Resource Professionals Day
OCTOBER 2025
American Pharmacists Month
Blindness Awareness Month
Depression and Mental Health Screening Month
Disability Employment Awareness Month
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Eye Injury Prevention Month
Health Literacy Month
Healthy Lung Month
Liver Awareness Month
Long-Term Care Planning Month
Medical Ultrasound Awareness Month
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
National Chiropractic Health Month
National Dental Hygiene Month
National Medical Librarians Month
NOVEMBER
American
Bladder
Epilepsy
Lung
National
National Family Caregivers Month
National
National Home Care & Hospice Month
National Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month
National Sexual Health Month
Pulmonary Hypertension Awareness Month
Stomach
National
National
DECEMBER
CINNAMON PORRIDGE WITH BAKED BANANAS
INGREDIENTS
2/3 cups rolled oats (porridge)
2/3 cup milk
1/4 cup water
½ tsp ground cinnamon
1 large ripe banana, halved lengthways and cut in half
2. Put the oats, milk, 1/4 cups of water, and cinnamon in a pan. Bring to a boil, and then turn the heat to low, stirring often for 5 minutes until thickened.
3. Meanwhile, arrange the banana in an oven safe dish with the juice and orange zest. Spread the honey on the top of the banana, and sprinkle with additional cinnamon. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, depending how soft you like them.
4. Fill your bowls with porridge. Top with yogurt, banana, and seeds.
Physician Connection
A monthly newsletter for the physicians of Hurley Medical Center. SAVE THE DATE 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 ™
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 Visit: education.hurleymc.com/cme/calendar
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 Yearly 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 medial 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
Hurley Regularly Scheduled Series (RSS)
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.
Anesthesia
Jordyn Hutchinson, CRNA
Certified Registered Nurse
Anesthetist
Hurley Medical Center – Anesthesia Department
One Hurley Plaza
Anesthesia Dept., 4 North Flint, MI 48503
Phone: (810) 262-9284
Fax: (810) 262-9610
Behavioral Health
Tatiana Aubrey, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Hurley Mental Health Associates
1085 S. Linden Rd
Suite 150 Flint, MI 48532
Phone: (810) 262-2100
Fax: (810) 230-3376
Medicine/Pediatrics
Jonathan Arbogast, MD
Family Medicine
Hamilton Community Health Network
225 E. Fifth St
Suite 300 Flint, MI 48502
Phone: (810) 406-4246
Fax: (810) 234-7068
Obstetrics & Gynecology
Tina Strecker, CNM
Certified Nurse Midwife
The Center for Maternal Fetal Medicine
One Hurley Plaza 9W Flint, MI 48503
Phone: (810) 262-4787
Fax: (810) 262-9243
Pediatrics
Ryan Greene, MD
Pediatric Cardiology
University of Michigan – Pediatric Cardiology
U of M Congenital Heart Center
C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital 1540 E. Hospital Dr.
