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EDITORIAL
EDITOR
Patricia
ART & DESIGN
GRAPHIC
Jeremy Eads
PHOTOGRAPHER
Doug Pike
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
Alana Chapman, General Duty Nurse-BSN
Andrea Richard, Pharmacy Technician
Asia Moody, Nursing Assistant
Brennen Kilmer, Surgical Technologist I
Celeste Langston, Host/Hostess
China Houston, Nurse Extern
David Stricklin, Environmental Aide
Elena Roumaya, Nurse Extern
Elexis Bray, Environmental Aide
Emma Horetski, Radiology Assistant Intern
Giahanna Love, Host/Hostess
Jachonda Williams, Environmental Aide
Jacqueline Smartt, Host/Hostess
Jacqueline Yankus, Nurse Extern
Jacob Fuson, General Duty Nurse-BSN
Jamier Wilkes, Nurse Extern
Jasmine Vaughn, Nurse Extern
Jordan Hunter, Environmental Aide
Katelin Bradow, Nurse Extern
Kala Diggs, Host/Hostess
Kayla Frost, Laboratory Clerk
Keasia Boaz, Nursing Assistant
Kejanai Wise, Environmental Aide
Madeline Horton, Radiology Assistant Intern
Madison Starr, General Duty Nurse-BSN
Makenzie Lawson, Nursing Assistant Trainee
Margaret Brown, Host/Hostess
Monisha Coleman, Health Unit Coord Trainee
Montae Gistover, Nursing Assistant
Olivia Harris, Laboratory Assistant
Paige Burgess, Radiology Assistant Intern
Pamela Vines, Nurse Extern
Precious Afolayan, Nursing Assistant
Quayvon Warren, Environmental Aide
Quitman Graham, Host/Hostess
Rachel Miller, Laboratory Assistant
Rashad Horne, Environmental Aide
Rodneysha Gibson, Laboratory Assistant
Zion Tidwell, Nursing Assistant Trainee
Zyasha Deloney, Environmental Aide
HURLEY FACTS
Merliss Brown’s interest in Flint’s health needs was the catalyst that drove him to dive into politics. In 1920, with Brown and the support of his fellow workers’ at the Buick Motor Division, E.W. Atwood was elected mayor of the City of Flint. Atwood, in turn, named Brown to Hurley’s Board of Managers, and Brown subsequently threw his efforts behind a $1.5 million bond campaign to support Hurley’s expansion. The bond passed, allowing the expansion of the now west building to 10 floors, including the addition of a nurses’ home. Brown received permanent recognition with the construction of the Merliss Brown Auditorium.
Universal Human Rights Month
HIV/AIDS Awareness Month
12/1 – World AIDS Day
12/3 – International Day for People with Disabilities
12/5 – International Volunteer Day
12/10 – International Human Rights Day
12/24 – Christmas Eve
12/25 – Christmas & Hanukkah begins
12/26 – Kwanzaa begins
12/31 – New Year’s Eve
DECEMBER
CULTURAL OBSERVANCES
IN THE NEWS
WNEM TV5
Focus on 5: Dr. Bowers of Hurley Medical Center
Learn the story of Dr. Bowers of Hurley Medical Center.
ABC12
'Raise the Purse' fundraiser benefits Hurley Children's Hospital
The ELGA Credit Union Foundation for IMPACT held its 4th annual "Raise the Purse" fundraiser benefiting Hurley Children's Hospital.
Hurley plastic surgeon talks breast reconstruction options following cancer treatment
Dr. Ihab Saab is a Director and Chief Clinical Strategy Officer at Hurley Medical Center.
PEDS/PICU MUSIC THERAPY PROGRAM
Meet your Music Therapist
Pediatric medical music therapy is the use of music and the therapeutic relationship to promote healthy coping and safeguard the child's psychosocial well-being during medical treatment. It is an evidence-based and cost-effective service that helps promote better health outcomes and improve patient experience. Skilled utilization of music elements by a credentialed MT-BC (Music Therapist, Board Certified) will be used to facilitate several goals including reducing anxiety, decreased pain perception, emotional expression/processing, coping skills and social interactions.
Pilot Dates: Thursdays 3:30-5:30 pm November 14, 2024 - May 2025 (no MT on Nov 28, Dec 26, and Jan 2)
Emily Dehem, an FSPA board-certified music therapist, is a native of New Baltimore, MI. She received her Bachelor of Music degree in Music Therapy from Ohio University, as well as an added minor in Dance Somatic Studies. Additionally, she is certified in NICU-MT of NICU Institute Training. Her primary instrument is the clarinet. Emily completed her internship at FAR Therapeutic Arts and Recreation in Birmingham, MI, where she worked with children, adolescents, and adults with special needs. Groups were facilitated in schools-based settings, as well as private and small group sessions typically in the form of adapted music lessons. Emily enjoys making music accessible to everyone and supporting their creativity through the music created. She is our current NICU Music Therapist for 4 hours a week and will be joining us on the Peds/PICU side on November 14!
Emily Dehem MT-BC, NICU-MT
for extraordinary nurses
DAISY AWARD – GWENDOLYN MATTIS, RN, BSN
This month’s DAISY Award Honoree is Gwendolyn Mattis, RN, BSN. The DAISY Award celebrates the extraordinary compassion a nurse shows to her patients and their families.
Gwen is a compassionate care provider and firmly believes in treating patients like family. Her receipt of the award reflects her passion, as the nomination read, “We brought our baby in with retracting breathing and a high fever. We are first-time parents who have never been through this. Gwen described everything they were doing, truly listened to my concerns and made me feel heard. She explained things in a way we could understand and never questioned our decisions. Gwen helped advocate for us when the doctor thought we could go home, and I was not yet ready. As a new mom taking my baby to the ER for the first time, I was grateful she was our nurse. We cannot thank her enough for her kindness.”
Gwen’s story is filled with an unrelenting religious faith, and she credits her faith for many of the blessings in her life. Gwen is
originally from Ohio. She worked as a waitress while attending college, completing a degree in marketing. She shared how she prayed to meet someone special to spend her life with. That person came into the restaurant one night while she was working. At first, not recognizing her gift, Gwen sort of pushed him away. Fortunately, her future husband was not deterred. They dated a few times. One of the first was her coming to Michigan and attending a Detroit Tigers game. The rest is history, and they eventually got married. Gwen shared that they are the perfect fit together.
Gwen moved to Michigan and took a position in Ann Arbor in a Marketing firm. She noted that working in marketing had its rewards, but she found she was still missing something. It was her husband who encouraged her to be a nurse. Gwen completed her nursing degree at UofM-Flint in 2011 by attending an accelerated program. She completed her clinicals at Hurley and afterwards, was offered a position in the emergency department. Gwen noted that it was in ED where she found her calling. Gwen shared, “I never would have guessed that I would be working in ED. I actually left Hurley for a brief time taking a position at University of Wisconsin but could not stay away. I truly love working here in ED. Everyone is like family.” Gwen spoke very highly of all those in ED, including all the different teams that comprise this area. “Everyone contributes to patient care. Not everyone can do the same thing. We
all deal with so much but the feel of all of us together as a team, make it like family.” She shared her best and most difficult part of being an ED Nurse. “The best part is taking care of people. My mom raised me for this. She taught me how to help others. I was meant to be an ED Nurse. It took me some time to figure that out, but it has truly been a blessing for me. There are challenges. You do not always know what to do but when you know the resources available, you can achieve anything. It is amazing being part of a whole team working together.”
Gwen noted that she was not aware that she was nominated for the DAISY Award and was honored to receive it. We shared the DAISY Award story on how it was begun by a family in memory of their son who they believed received skillful and compassionate care from his nurses during his eight-week hospitalization. How he had Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), an autoimmune disease. His wife came up with the acronym DAISY, standing for Diseases Attacking the Immune System. The family wanted to say “thank you” to nurses everywhere by establishing a recognition program – The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses – to honor the work nurses do for their patients and families every day. Gwen noted that she
received the statue titled “A Healer’s Touch.” She did research and found the statue was created by the Shona tribe of Zimbabwe. It bears the inscription “A Healer’s Touch.” Gwen also found words on the bottom of the statue "Isheanesu" which translates, “God is with us.” Gwen appreciated that the statue referenced faith, as she again recognized her strong faith in God. Gwen stated, “I am so grateful to have God in my life.”
Gwen thanked God for creating her to be the person she is. She also wanted to thank her department for being an amazing team. She referenced all the teams: nurses, physicians, physician assistants, social workers, technicians, radiology, EVS, registration, laundry and all those that work in or service ED. Gwen thanked her husband for being so supportive. She appreciates that he is understanding and empathetic to her. A care provider helping others all day, at times, may need to decompress. He understands this and is always there for her. She thanked her family, who has also been very supportive. Gwen in her spare time enjoys biblical studies, and she is learning to be an organic vegetable gardener, sharing the bounties with others. On her days off, she finds therapy in baking and cooking, and, of course, in sharing her food with others. Nominate an exceptional RN for the DAISY Award. Nomination forms are available in the Cafeteria, 8W Nursing Office and on the Hurley intranet.
Mid-Michigan Center for Brain & Spine Disorders
Whether it’s neck/back pain, sciatica, deformities, spine or brain tumors the Hurley Neurological Center offers a comprehensive evaluation and a treatment plan tailored to your needs, lifestyles and conditions, such as:
SPINE NEUROSURGERY
• Spine & Spinal Cord Injury
• Spine Tumor Surgery
• Cerebral Aneurysm
• Cerebral & Spinal AVM
• Cerebral Vascular Lesions
• Carotid Artery Stenosis
• Acoustic Tumors
CEREBROVASUCLAR NEUROSURGERY
• Carotid Artery Disease
• Intracerebral Hemorrhage
NEUROSURGICAL ONCOLOGY
• Brain Tumors & Brain Cancer
SKULL BASE SURGERY & TUMORS
This specialty requires precise microsurgical techniques to reach areas, including the deep brain structures, cranial nerves, major blood vessels, and openings at the floor of the skull.
NEUROLOGICAL CENTER
Christian Bowers, MD Spine Neurosurgeon
Marc D. Moisi, MD Director of Neurosurgery
TEAM OF EXPERTS
Johnny B. Delashaw Jr., MD Spine Neurosurgeon
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: GI LAB
HELPING TO DIAGNOSE AND TREAT THOSE WE SERVE
Hurley’s GI lab is located off of Patrick Street and serves both inpatient and outpatient. They also provide services to both pediatric and adult patients. They help to diagnose, treat and prevent diseases of the digestive and liver systems. This team cohesively works together to provide a diagnostic service that can be for wellness or have life-changing effects. They do their best to make the patient as comfortable as possible from the moment they enter to when they leave the medical center. This can be providing a warm blanket to holding a hand during the IV insertion.
Yvonne Burrows, Johnathan Lowe, Brenda Skarzynski, Kathryn Hoffman, Amanda Woelzlein, Sonya McKerchie, Majdal Alatrash, Christina Davis, Teresa Colwell, Alfreda Carroll, Kathleen Peterson, Julie Welker, Maria Parker, Angela Wansedel
The Hurley GI team is a specialized group of skilled professionals who strive to provide safe and comfortable endoscopy procedures to the patients they serve. The GI team works in concert to serve the outpatient community in the GI Lab, as well as traveling to Hurley inpatients in multiple settings, such as OR, ICU and ED. I am proud of the GI department's commitment to accommodation; being flexible and mobile within the medical center to provide the safest environment for needed endoscopy procedures.
-Angela Wansedel RN, BSN Nurse Manager 4CAS, PACU, GI Lab, PAT
WHAT IS GASTROENTEROLOGY?
Gastroenterology is the study of the normal function and diseases of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon and rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts and liver.
WHAT PROCEDURES DOES THE GI LAB PERFORM?
Hurley’s GI Lab offers a wide range of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for the comprehensive management of digestive disorders, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Barrett's esophagus, colon and esophageal cancer, diagnosis and management of pancreatic and bile duct cancers, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) nausea and stomach pain. They perform a variety of procedures, including upper endoscopy, ERCPs (Endoscopy Retrograde Cholangio Pancreatography) and small bowel enteroscopy. They also perform biopsies, which are procedures that remove small pieces of tissue for testing.
THE TEAM ARE COMPRISED OF?
The department is made up of a team of professionals, including gastroenterologists, endoscopy nurses, endoscopy technicians, a certified endoscope reprocessor, an additional endoscope reprocessor, and a medical assistant. The team members are: Yvonne Burrows, Johnathan Lowe, Brenda Skarzynski, Kathryn Hoffman, Amanda Woelzlein, Sonya McKerchie, Majdal Alatrash, Christina Davis, Teresa Colwell, Alfreda Carroll, Kathleen Peterson, Julie Welker, Angela Wansedel, Ashley Compton, and Hurley Foundation Volunteer, Maria Parker.
• Gastroenterologist
A Gastroenterologist is a specialist with expertise in the disorders and diseases that affect the digestive system. This includes the gastrointestinal tract (esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum and anus), as well as the pancreas, liver, bile ducts and gallbladder. The digestive disorders and issues that a gastroenterologist treats include: unexplained changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea, constipation and blood in the stool; gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); heartburn; hemorrhoids; inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis;
Teresa Colwell, Johnathan Lowe
Ashley Compton
Alfreda Carroll
Sonya McKerchie
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS); pancreatitis and ulcers. Gastroenterologists are trained to perform a number of procedures used to help diagnose and treat these conditions, such as upper endoscopy, colonoscopy, biopsy and the various endoscopic techniques needed to visualize the digestive system, including endoscopic ultrasound.
• Endoscopy Nurse
Our endoscopy nurses (Amanda Woelzlein, Brenda Skarzynski, Julie Welker, Kathleen Peterson, Kathryn Hoffman, Majdal Alatrash and Sonya McKerchie) have a very specialized skill set, requiring specific training relating to gastroenterology procedures. They perform the admission process and also recover the patient post procedure. This includes starting the intravenous line, monitoring vital signs and supporting patients. Post procedure, they monitor patients, observing for side effects. They also educate patients, teaching them how to control symptoms through diet and explain the importance of changing their diet. They work to take good care of the patient preparing them for the procedure and also getting them ready to safely go home. The endoscopy nurses are on-call in the evenings and the weekends for emergent procedures. This includes foreign body removals from the esophagus. Endoscopy nurses are cross-trained to function across all roles in the department. They can perform as an endoscopy technician, assisting the gastroenterologists, and can even perform high-level disinfection of the scopes.
•
Endoscopy Technician
Our endoscopy technician is Christina Davis. An endoscopy technician assists the gastroenterologist during the procedure. They work like a surgical technician where they hand off the equipment to the gastroenterologist during the procedure.
Amanda Woelzlein, Sonya McKerchie
Kathryn Hoffman, Alfreda Carroll
Alfreda Carroll, Dr. Nicholas Yeldo, Majdal Alatrash
• Endoscope Reprocessors
The GI Lab has two endoscopic reprocessors on their team—Teresa Colwell and Johnathan Lowe. Congratulations to Teresa Colwell, who is now a Certified Flexible Endoscope Reprocessor achieving her certification from the Certification Board from Sterile Processing and Distribution. These individuals are responsible for the high-level disinfection of the scopes.
• Endoscopy Department Medical Assistant
Alfreda Carroll is the department’s medical assistant. Alfreda works very hard to keep things running smoothly. She works with the GI physicians’ offices to help facilitate the scheduling of patients. She checks the patient in, always making them feel welcome. Alfreda is a major support to the department.
WHEN SHOULD YOU SEE A GASTROENTEROLOGIST?
When seeing your primary care physician, you should ask to be referred to a gastroenterologist when you have ongoing diarrhea, constipation, frequent or severe heartburn, feeling unusually bloated, sudden or severe abdominal pain or rectal bleeding or blood in your stool. If you are over the age of 45 or have a strong family history of colorectal cancer, you have probably heard your doctor recommend a colonoscopy. Most people begin having screening colonoscopies at age 45. From there, the frequency varies based on your results — but if the findings are normal and you have no other risk factors, you only need to repeat a colonoscopy every ten years.
While a colonoscopy might sound uncomfortable, it can save your life. Early detection of colorectal cancer is important — when caught early, it can lead to less aggressive treatment and better chance of survival.
Early detection of breast cancer is vital for survival, so don't ignore any symptoms—whether due to fear of a diagnosis or concerns about financial resources. Help is available and you don’t have to face this alone. Our mission is to support every patient in overcoming cancer, with a team of world-class surgeons, oncologists, nurses, and staff dedicated to your care. Please don't delay seeking treatment—there are many people here rooting for your success, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
Jennifer Webb RN, BSN Breast Health Nurse Navigator
Breast Cancer Navigation Program
Hurley Medical Center’s Breast Cancer Navigation Program is dedicated to educating, advocating for and supporting patients throughout their breast cancer journey. To guide patients through the complexities and challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis, we offer the expertise of a Breast Health Nurse Navigator, Jennifer Webb RN, BSN. This specialized role provides invaluable support, education and resources to help patients navigate their diagnosis with confidence and care.
What a Breast Health Nurse Navigator Assists with
• Education on cancer diagnosis, staging and treatment options
• Facilitation of timely communication between patients, physicians and primary caregivers
• Assistance with coping strategies for both physical and emotional needs
• Connecting patients to relevant healthcare and community resources, including coordination of screening exams
• Identification and resolution of barriers to timely and appropriate treatment
• Review and summary of treatment plans and progress
• Active involvement in supporting fundraising efforts for the Breast Cancer Navigation Program
Don't Delay - Get Screened!
For Average-Risk Women: (According to American Cancer Society)
• Ages 40–44: Option to start annual mammograms
• Ages 45–54: Annual mammograms recommended
• Ages 55+: Mammograms every other year or continue annually
For High-Risk
Women:
(According to American Cancer Society)
• Annual mammograms and breast MRI, typically starting at age 30.
High-risk factors include but not limited to:
• Have a lifetime risk of breast cancer of about 20% to 25% or greater, according to risk assessment tools
• Known BRCA1/BRCA2 gene mutation or first degree relative with BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation
How Our Breast Health Navigation Fund Can Help
• Paying for screening tests for patients without insurance
• Covering the cost of additional screening tests, such as MRIs, that may not be covered by insurance
• Assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments
• Support with overdue medical bills that may impact the ability to receive cancer treatment
• Help with overdue bills essential for survival, for those facing financial hardship
Did you know?
1 in 8 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. In 2024, an estimated 310,720 women and 2,800 men will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. Chances are, you know at least one person who has been personally affected by breast cancer.
But there is hope. When caught in its earliest, localized stages, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%. Advances in early detection and treatment methods have significantly increased breast cancer survival rates in recent years, and there are currently over 4 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. *
* National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. statistics. https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-facts
Under 40?
While rare, breast cancer can occur in younger women and is the most common cancer in women aged 15–39. Certain types are rising in younger women. If you're concerned, talk to your doctor about your personal risk and the right time to start screening.
Request a referral for a breast health screening from your primary care physician.
Hurley Medical Center Breast Health Navigator
Jennifer Webb, RN, BSN 810.262.7207
Jennifer Webb, RN, BSN 810.262.7207
jwebb2@hurleymc.com
jwebb2@hurleymc.com
HONORING HER LEGACY
PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICER DONATES TO HURLEY'S BREAST CANCER NAVIGATION PROGRAM
Hurley employee William Koryciak (better known as Bill) lost his mother-in-law, Atsuko Camille Murphy, on October 14th. Bill was assigned the task of helping his family sort through her worldly possessions. Bill noted, “Atsuko was an elegant and refined woman with a collection of luxurious and designer clothing, purses, shoes, hats, scarves and gloves valued in the thousands. I truly believed that she would want me to use these items for something positive.” Bill donated as many of these items as he could to various organizations. Seeing the wigs, he knew where they would best be used and donated them to Hurley’s Breast Cancer Navigation Program. The donation was made and a beautiful photo capturing the moment taken (featured in the article).
In honoring Atsuko, Bill recounts her extraordinary life with heartfelt detail. Atsuko Camille Murphy was 94 ½ years old when she passed. Her maiden name was Atsuko Hoshina. Atsuko was born in Japan in 1930. As a teen growing up, she survived the horrors of war and of the American aircraft firebombing of Tokyo. In 1956, she married U.S. Army Sergeant Thomas R. Murphy (of Lapeer, Michigan), who was stationed in Japan. The newly-married couple returned to the U.S. and to Fort Dix, New Jersey, in early 1957. Here, their first child was born prematurely and tragically passed 4 hours later. Thomas and Atsuko were soon transferred to France where, Bill’s wife, Rose, was born in 1960. They were subsequently transferred to Germany. They made it back to the U.S. where Thomas retired from the army in 1966. Atsuko was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas. Her daughter, Rose, has been married to Bill for 31 years. Bill spoke fondly of his mother in law, Atsuko, sharing this story as his special way of honoring her.
Thomas Murphy & Atsuko Hoshina wedding, 1956.
Bill Koryciak, Jennifer Webb.
VEGETARIAN CHILI
INGREDIENTS
• 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin, optional
• 1 (14-oz) can diced fire-roasted tomatoes
• 2 cans beans of choice (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup water or vegetable broth
• 1 can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, diced
• 1 cup frozen corn
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice
DIRECTIONS
Heat the oil in a large pot. Add the onion, some salt and pepper. Cook onions through, and then add the red pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
Add garlic, chili powder, and cumin, if using. Stir.
Add tomatoes, beans, water/broth, chipotles and adobo sauce, corn, and salt and pepper to taste. Cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in lime juice and season to taste.
Top with your favorite chili toppings.
WEIGHT LOSS SUCCESS STORY BEFORE & AFTER
I have been overweight all of my adult life. There were multiple reasons as to why I contacted the Hurley Comprehensive Weight Loss Center. First, my primary care physician had been urging me for several years to lose weight. In addition to this, both my father and father-in-law passed away at a relatively young age due to poor health choices. I did not want to put my family through that same heartache. Although I did not have bariatric surgery, all of these factors gave me the final push to start Hurley’s NonSurgical Medical Weight Loss Program.
At the time I started the program, I weighed 281 lbs. At the end of the 12-week program, I weighed 218 lbs. Since completing the program, I have experienced numerous improvements in my life. First, I am sleeping much better! Second, I was able to receive my Dept. of Transportation medical card without any hassle for the first time. Not only this, after a long workday, I have the energy to wrestle around with my kids. The most personally satisfying improvement would probably be having my clothes go from tight, to comfortable, to so loose that I had to buy smaller sizes!
What worked best for me was primarily following the guidance of the very talented staff at the Hurley Comprehensive Weight Loss Center. You are paying for their expertise so I advise you to listen to them! Secondly, I stopped consuming restaurant food and fast food. These choices are adding inches to your mid-section (and emptying your wallet)! Third, stay active! Even on spring break with my children, I was able to incorporate physical activity and still managed to lose a couple pounds that week. I am more aware of my food choices. Keeping a detailed food log also allowed me to figure out what was and was not working for my body. Lastly, I never avoid physical labor. This is a bad habit that we as a society have fallen into, and it is not serving us well. We will all be a lot healthier and wealthier if we put in some hard work!
Hurley Comprehensive Weight Loss Center in Flint, Michigan is a nationally accredited Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Comprehensive Center and BCBS Blue Distinction Center. Our highly skilled board certified surgeons not only specialize in bariatric surgery, but are also credentialed in critical care at a level 1 Trauma Center. We have performed over 5,000 procedures such as the RNY Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy, Adjustable Gastric Band, and SADI-S. Our experienced, comprehensive bariatric team of health professionals offer expertise and compassionate care, helping each individual achieve “New Hope, New Health, New Life”!
To learn more about the Hurley Center of Excellence, visit: hurleymc.com/services/hernia-center/ Scan QR code or call 810.262.6555 to begin today.
weight loss and Hernia surgery
Hurley’s Hernia Center of Excellence surgeons are experts at effective hernia repairs, but you can still impact your surgical success by aiming for a body mass index (BMI) of less than 35.
BEFORE MY HERNIA SURGERY
Weight loss before hernia surgery shows decreased rates of:
• Hernia recurrence
• Wound infections or poor wound healing
• Anesthesia complications
• Cardiac/respiratory complications post-op
• Blood clots
HOW CAN I LOSE WEIGHT
• Diet and exercise – with the help of a nutritionist/dietitian. Improving your physical fitness will help speed up your recovery process.
• Medical weight loss – with the help of medications to assist weight loss
• Bariatric surgery – with the help of surgery to maximize your weight loss such as a sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass
• Contact Hurley Comprehensive Weight Loss Center at 810.262.2330.
6140 Rashelle Dr. Flint, MI 48507
WHAT ELSE IS IMPORTANT BESIDES MY WEIGHT?
Diabetes Control – A required hemoglobin A1c of less than 7.0 may result in decreased rates of wound infections and poor wound healing.
Management of your diabetes should be controlled by your primary medical doctor or diabetes specialist.
Smoking Cessation – Stopping smoking before surgery makes a big difference, such as decreased rates of wound infections, hernia recurrence & respiratory complications.
The Michigan Tobacco Quitline offers free information for tobacco treatment referrals, online programs at michigan.quitlogix.com, and 24/7 text messaging at 1-800-QUIT-NOW.
In January 2023, Hurley’s Employee Engagement launched the internal “Thanks a LOTTO” campaign, inspired by the exceptional service provided by many employees as noted in Press Ganey and online reviews. Thanks a LOTTO cards are distributed each quarter, ensuring continued recognition of our dedicated staff. Each employee receives thank you cards containing $1 Michigan instant lottery tickets, with additional tickets for those named multiple times.
These cards continue to make waves across various departments, including Emergency, Mother/ Baby, PEDS, PICU, NICU, CCU, ICU, Neuro Trauma Surgical Burn, 5East, 6East Joint, 7East, 9East, OB/GYN Clinic and Wound Care Clinic. The feedback from them has been overwhelmingly positive. Managers are encouraged to celebrate these acknowledgments!
Let's continue to celebrate the dedication and hard work of our team as we move forward into another year of serving our community with excellence. Congratulations to all our winners, and here's to many more successes ahead!
Aisha Carter
Albert Michailian
Alex Briggs
Alex Curtis
Alexa Wyant
Alexandra Burrough
Alexandra Hudson
Alexandra Yambrick
Alexis Duffney
Alissa Palmeter
Allan Silvers
Alyssa Harris
Amanda Harris
Amanda Myers
Amanda Powell
Amanda Reinhardt
Amanda Tate
Amber Loeffler
Amber Stames
Amy Bujak
Amy Holmes
Amy Horton
Amy Peraino
Amy Stanley
Andy Lengyel
Angela Vondaggenhausen
Angie Costello
Angie Niebler
Ann Poole
Anne Hirzel
Annsley Metz
April Parker
Artavia Bransford
Ashley Bells
Ashley Kingsley
Ashley Robinette
Ashlynn Hopkins
Austin Baldwin
Austin Nicholson
Bailey Waterson
Barbara Gill
Becky Virgo
Brad Besette
Brandy Montreal
Brandie Kilburn
Brian Barna
Brian Bates
Brianna Loiselle
Brittany Fearn
Brittany Geda
Brittany Slowik
Brooke Erickson
Caitlyn Vowel
Candace Smith
Candi Houle
Cap Wilson
Cara Westen
Carol Fechik
Charleigh Sprague
Chelsea Fray
Chelsea Studer
Chris Norris
Chris Vanzyll
Christine Burrows
Chris Vanzyll
Christine Burrows
Claire Duley
Connor O’brien
Connor Wood
Corey Lang
Corrie Jones
Courtney Zudell
Dakota Stefanaco
Dan Schneider
Daniel Osminski
Carcia Hardy
Dave Covell
Dena Moore
Derek Samida
Donnie Warner
Drew Elrod
Emily Boyd
Emma Birchmier
Emma Phillpotts
Emma Smith
Eric Riehl
Erika Tymcxak
Felcia Morgan
Gabby Robare
Gabrielle Gantos
Gabrielle Garza
Gibson Finch
Gina McCarrick
Gina Murphy
Grace Riedel
Greg Cleveland
Gwen Likukuta
Hailey Murray
Haleigh Washburn
Hanna Jones
Hanna Rorrer
Hannah Rauch
Heather Minor
Holly Smythe
Huli Ziong
Jackie Sabo
Jacob Heddy
Jacqui Simmons
James Gonzalez-Anderson
Janneen Pharms
Jayia Garth
Jayla Beggs
Jen Shumaker
Jenna Gilmour
Jenna Moon
Jennifer Garcia
Jennifer Johnston
Jennifer Plumb
Jeremy Knapp
Jerrit Baker
Jessica Rye
Jessica Smith
Jessica Terry
Jessica Titus
Jill Gensel
Joanne Cogswell
Jodie Nickerson
Joe Bade
Jolie Swyrtek
Jordan Czarnota
Joseph Chapman
Josh Simmet
Josie Hightower
Julia Haubenstricker
Justin Barber
Justin Klecker
Kaitlyn Hubbard
Kaitlyn Sanborn
Karen Wiltse
Karlee Weissend
Katie Grohman
Katie Makimaa
Katie Ryan
Kayla Morris
Kaylee Flippen
Kaylee Vettese
Kelley Rumsey
Kelli Pyles
Kelsey Sly
Kristy Schilling
Kyle Neyman
Kylie Auernhammer
Kylie Baker
Latasha Johnson
Laura Dallas
Leah Ridenour
Leslie Tucker
Lindsey Diek
Lisa Smith
Liz Lester
Lizett Bradshaw
Lucretia Britt
Lydia Rigsby
Mackenzie Brannon
Maddie Balog
Madison Macsuga
Maggie Payne
Makenzie Brannon
Marcelle Rahmon
Maressa O’Mara
Marianne Gilbert
Mary Lynn
Matti Crosby
Mattie Macsuga
Max Martin
Meadeau Dowd
Megan Cooper
Megan Hackney
Megan Thompson
Megan Voss
MeganWald
Meghan Sidhar
Melissa Brannon
Melissa Carrol
Melissa Chaney
Melissa Croteau
Melissa Halford-Jones
Melissa StPierre
Meredith Rinke
Michelle Craine
Michelle Heizerman
Mieke Scaggs
Mikala McMullen
Mikayla Saha
Mikayla Wikaryasz
Mike Cassidy
Mike McAuley
Mike Padilla
Mindy Hamby
Mirada Maher
Miriam Botani
Missy Saylow
Mitch Craft
Molly Wolfington
Morgan Powell
Myrna Bottrel
Nadia Penney
Nancy Hudson
Natalia Curtiss
Nicholas Satterfield
Nick Hensley
Nicole Jones-Greenwald
Nichole Hall
Noah Bridger
Noreen Blue
Olivia Rogers
Paul Romine
Pete McCrandall
Rachel White
Rae-Anne Wolf
Rhonda Campbell
Richelle Collier
Rick Hyde
Riley Caswell
Robert Boyce
Robert Vaden
Rochelle Ward
Roger Grimes
Ron Neibler
Ronaldo Magdaleno
Rose Semple
Sam Maienbrook
Sam Rozek
Samantha Harris
Samantha Smith
Sara Baker
Sara Granger
Sarah Haycock
Sarah Hinkle
Sarah Sherman
Sarah Vincke
Sarah Welch
Scott Lenzi
Shannon Nino
Shelby Turner
Sierra Colston
Sparkle Goodman
Stephanie Powell
Stephanie Stevens
Stephanie Winters
Tabatha Holder
Tamara Miller
Tammy McDonald
Tanya Brown
Tara Coleman
Tasha Johnson
Tashana James
Tawanna Jackson
Tayah Fantin
Taylor Gartee
Taylor Schumacher
Thomas Groezonger
Tifanny Hunt
Tiffanie McCall
Tiffany Wise
Tina Reamer
Tracy Gilmore
Trenton Mills
Vanessa Hadley
Vatina Topps-Reynolds
Vickie Anderson
Victor Owen
Vida Wolff
Virginia Perkins
Whitley Lewis
Willie Dirrell
Zachary Garman
Zakiya Long
• Popcorn is high in fiber, antioxidants, vitamin B, manganese, and magnesium. It can help with digestion, lower cholesterol, and control blood sugar.
• Americans eat more popcorn than any other country, and most of the popcorn eaten worldwide is grown in the United States.
• Popcorn kernels can pop up to 3 feet in the air.
Physician Connection
A monthly newsletter for the physicians of Hurley Medical Center.
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)
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 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)
3rd Friday, 7:00-8:00 AM
4th Friday, 7:00-8:00 AM
1st Friday, 7:00-8:00 AM
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
Alexis Britt, 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
Emergency Medicine
Chloe Waack, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Hurley Department of Emergency Medicine
One Hurley Plaza Flint, MI 48503
Phone: (810) 262-9429
Fax: (810) 262-9104
Susan Wong, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Hurley Department of Emergency Medicine
One Hurley Plaza Flint, MI 48503
Phone: (810) 262-9429
Fax: (810) 262-9104
Medicine
Hussein Kleit, NP
Nurse Practitioner
Providers TEK
4700 Greenfield Rd Suite 2E
Dearborn, MI 48126
Phone: (313) 740-1111
Fax: (313) 672-6241
Marlon Nicdao, NP
Nurse Practitioner
Providers TEK
4700 Greenfield Rd Suite 2E
Dearborn, MI 48126
Phone: (313) 740-1111
Fax: (313) 672-6241
Surgery
Alexandra Apkarian, MD
Pediatric Ophthalmology
Children’s Eye Care, PC
22731 Newman Street Suite 245
Dearborn, MI 48124
Phone: (313) 561-1777
Fax: (313) 561-8044
Reema Naman, DPM
Podiatry
Hamilton Community Health Network, Inc. –
North Pointe Clinic 5710 N. Clio Road Flint, MI 48504
