Between 1908 and 1919, the hospital had expanded its capacity from 40 beds to 125 beds. It was during this time that the city of Flint was experiencing rapid growth that resulted in overcrowding conditions at many public institutions, including Hurley Hospital. This could not have been more evident, as by 1918 the city of Flint was in an influenza pandemic. During this period, Merliss Brown (pictured to the left), a local factory worker, became deeply interested in Flint’s health
We've upgraded our communication devices to iPhones to enhance our services.*
• iPhones are replacing Ascom devices.
*This iPhone is for hospital business only.
• Ascom users will switch to the new iPhone for hospital business.
• The iPhones offer calling, secure chatting, and limited charting.
• They will only work on Hurley’s wifi and on Hurley’s campus.
• iPhones will be issued in a clear case with a “Property of Hurley Medical Center” sticker.
• Each iPhone will have a unique ID for tracking and maintenance.
NOVEMBER
CULTURAL OBSERVANCES
CELEBRATING THIS MONTH:
Native American Heritage Month
Supporting Men’s Health Issues
11/1 - National Stress Awareness Day
11/9 - World Adoption Day
11/11 - Remembrance/Veteran’s Day
11/13 - World Kindness Day
11/16 - International Day for Tolerance
11/19 - International Men’s Day
11/20 - Transgender Day of Remembrance
11/28 - Thanksgiving
11/29 - Native American Heritage Day
MEET OUR LEADERSHIP MARYUM RASOOL
The Hurley Board of Managers is pleased to introduce Hurley’s newest Board Member, Maryum Rasool. Maryum is the CEO of the Sylvester Broome Empowerment Village. She brings vast knowledge of philanthropy that includes coordinating efforts to initiate contact and cultivating new institutional and major donor relationships. She is a firm supporter of our community. She works diligently to promote the welfare of others, through events and fundraisers obtaining donations that can be distributed amongst good and needed causes throughout our community. Maryum has a strong philanthropy background, always helping others and has even assisted the Hurley Foundation.
Maryum has experience in reform outreach including analyzing data and implementing strategic initiatives. She was a Lead Outreach and Enrollment Specialist with Hamilton Community Health Network. They provide medical, dental, vision and an array of specialty services. Her involvement through Hamilton was to manage Health Reform outreach and the enrollment process. This initiative advocated for many in our community who greatly need assistance with receiving healthcare services.
Maryum is originally from Boston MA. She enjoys helping others and has a strong sense of empathy. Her life has been full of travel adventures/excursions, and she enjoys attending sporting events with family and friends.
When asked about being appointed to the Hurley Board of Managers, Maryum stated, “It is an honor to service the community that once served me.”
LEADERSHIP
“It is an honor to service the community that once served me.”
WNEM TV5
Hurley NICU babies show off adorable Halloween costumes
Babies at the Hurley Children’s Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) are celebrating their first Halloween in adorable costumes.
Mid-Michigan NOW
Cute Photos: Babies in Hurley Medical Center NICU are all dressed up for Halloween!
Babies in the neonatal intensive care unit are dressed up, and you might recognize some of the looks!
ABC12
Medical Monday: Diagnosing an aneurysm
Hurley Neurological Center Neurosurgeon Dr. Christian Bowers talks about diagnosing and treating aneurysms.
ABC12
Whooping cough cases rise in Genesee County
According to the Genesee County Health Department, 31 cases of Pertussis, also known as Whopping cough, have been identified in the county.
WNEM TV5
Doctors speak on how to stay healthy during flu season
Dr. Mariam Younas, an infectious disease specialist with Hurley Medical Center, talks about how to stay healthy during flu season.
WNEM TV5
Lawmakers revisit legislation to cap insulin at $35 for all Congressman Dan Kildee (D-Flint) and health professionals at the Hurley Diabetes Center were in Burton today.
ABC12
Orthopedic surgeon explains Detroit Lions’ Aidan Hutchinson’s leg injury
Dr. Travis Baes M.D. Orthopedic Surgeon from Ortho-Michigan and Hurley Medical Center joined Dawn Jones on ABC12 News First at Four to explain the injury.
Mid-Michigan NOW
Congressman hopes $35 insulin cap will be made available for all who need it
Legislators are working to make insulin cheaper for all.
ABC12
Pink Night Palooza raises money for breast cancer patients
Hurley Medical Center raised money for breast cancer programs with the 16th annual Pink Night Palooza.
WNEM TV5
Hope in full bloom at Pink Night Palooza
This year’s Pink Night Palooza on Thursday planned to spread seeds of hope at its annual fundraiser for cancer patients.
VIEW Newspaper Group
Patients, healthcare workers, EMS recognized during special event at Hurley Medical Center
Cardiac arrest patients had the chance to meet the people who saved their lives during a special event at Hurley Medical Center.
Mid-Michigan NOW
Buddy Check: Pink Night Palooza and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk in Flint
WNEM TV5
Cardiac arrest survivors reunite with the heroes who helped save them
On Wednesday, October 8, at Hurley Medical Center, EMS personnel, nurses, doctors, police officers and family members reunited with those they helped save during heart attacks.
WNEM TV5
Spirit of Children: Making hospitals less scary
Hurley Foundation, Brooklyn Kennings, Director Pediatric Programs & Development, and Spirit Halloween--It's time to get your costume and get in the Halloween spirit to help out kids in mid-Michigan.
KODY EDDY, RN, BSN
for extraordinary nurses
This month’s DAISY Award
Honoree is Kody Eddy, BSN, RN. The Daisy Award celebrates the extraordinary compassion a nurse shows to their patients and families.
From the nomination: “My family and I wished our dad didn't end up in the hospital but are beyond grateful that he ended up at Hurley. Everyone there was phenomenal. Kody works with the best, but he was our light in such a dark time. Kody advocated for our dad. Our dad was delirious. Kody knew he needed less stimuli. He respectfully told us to give our dad some space, so we did, and our dad improved. Kody made sure our dad was comfortable and was diligent about turning him. He also suctioned our dad often, even though our dad was fighting him every step of the way. I truly believe Kody doing that gave our dad a few more days before he had to be intubated. Kody gave us hope but was also real with us. He updated us as often as he could. Kody took the time to talk to our dad. Our Dad
let Kody know, in his own way, that he was more than ready to go home. He didn't want to be intubated any longer and didn't want to be on dialysis. Thanks to Kody taking the time to sit and listen to our dad, we were able to make the right decisions for him. As a nurse myself, I know there are just some patients that touch your heart and remind you why you do this incredibly emotional job. I could tell our dad was one of those patients for Kody. We thank God every day that Kody was there that whole week our dad was in the ICU. Kody allowed us not to have to be at the hospital every waking moment. We knew our dad was in good hands. We knew if we needed to be there, Kody would let us know. Kody took care of our dad mentally, and physically. He took care of all of us mentally. Kody was humble though too. When I told him thank you for taking such good care of our dad, he told me that it wasn't just him taking care of our dad. They all work as a team in the ICU. When it was time to take our dad home on hospice, everyone was so helpful. But, we wanted to take Kody home with us. Kody is beyond an exceptional nurse and just a genuinely good person. Thank you Kody.”
Kody is a nurse on Neuro Trauma/Surgical Burn/ICU (NTSB). He has been in patient care since he was 19. He began his career at Select Specialty Hospital-Flint where he worked for almost eight years. Kody decided to pursue a degree in nursing and attended UofM-Flint for
his BSN. He completed his clinicals at Hurley and began his career on ICCU. Kody’s career at Hurley began during COVID when ICCU was designated the critical care area for this patient population. Kody worked in ICCU for two years and began thinking about pursuing a career in intensive care. He had that opportunity when a position became available on NTSB. Kody credits his experience in healthcare leading him to critical care. He noted, “I have always been inspired to be in critical care. I knew this was completely out of my comfort zone, but I wanted to learn something different. Those who work on this unit are like a family.”
Kody explained that patients on NTSB are diverse and very critical. He noted, “You develop relationships with the patients and the families, which is something I truly appreciate.” Kody was very appreciative when he was told he was nominated for the DAISY award. “I was overwhelmed. It took my breath away. Sitting there at the nurse’s station and seeing all those in leadership who showed up was amazing. It felt reassuring that I am doing the right thing and that I am in the right place.” Kody further noted, “I want to recognize everyone I have ever worked with in healthcare. You can take a bit of good from everyone. The people from
Neuro Trauma and how they handle things, motivate and encourage patients is a wealth of knowledge that I work with every day. I could not do what I do without my team in Neuro Trauma.”
Kody expressed his appreciation for his wife and family. He proudly shared that he has two children--a boy and girl who are 1 and 3.5 years of age. “Kody added, “They are the most refreshing thing I have in my life right now.”
His favorite thing to do is spend time with his family. He has a place in East Tawas where the family visits frequently. He enjoys the time there, as he is an avid outdoorsman.
Have you witnessed an extraordinary registered nurse in action? Nominate an exceptional RN for the DAISY Award. Nomination forms are available in the Cafeteria, 8W Nursing Office and on the Hurley intranet.
HURLEY YOU
A monthly series that takes you behind the scenes of Hurley, showcasing the essential work of each department that keeps us thriving.
Each month we will introduce you to a new team sharing their unique roles, responsibilities and the dedicated efforts they put into Hurley running smoothly and efficiently.
Hurley YOU is a celebration of the people who make it all possible one department at a time.
ADVANCED PRACTICE PROVIDERS HURLEY YOU
The Heartbeat of Hurley Medical Center
At Hurley Medical Center, our Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) are not just healthcare professionals—they are the foundation of compassionate, high-quality care. APPs, including Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants, assess, diagnose, treat and manage a wide range of medical conditions. But their role goes far beyond clinical responsibilities. They are the front line of patient care, the steady hands in emergencies and the compassionate voices
guiding patients through their healing journey. APPs can be found throughout our hospital, bringing their expertise to every corner, from the fast-paced Emergency Department to the highly-specialized Critical Care areas like ICU, CCU, ICCU and NeuroTrauma units. Our team extends across Trauma/Acute Care Surgery, Emergency Medicine, Critical Care and even into the Neurosurgery APP team, ensuring that wherever there's a need, an APP is there, providing expert care.
Advanced Practice Providers are the heartbeat of Hurley Medical Center— steadfast, compassionate and dedicated to leading the way in patient care.
Briana Alexander, Melissa Miller, Donna Corkins, Camrion Bona, Patricia Garzelloni
The growth of our APP team has been tremendous, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic. In the last few years alone, we have welcomed more than 20 new APPs to our family, creating a robust team that is always available, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This level of coverage is unique to Hurley, and it underscores the dedication of our APPs, who remain steadfast in their commitment to Hurley’s mission: "Clinical Excellence. Service to People." You can feel that mission in everything they do—working tirelessly to make a meaningful difference in patients' lives.
Since 1985, when our very first APP joined the Trauma/Surgery department, this team has grown into a vital part of nearly every department in the hospital. Today, we are proud to say that our APPs are at the forefront of transforming healthcare at Hurley.
They embody the hospital’s vision of being "Leaders in transforming health through academic and clinical excellence, expanding access to innovative care." Their commitment to providing top-tier care to the people of Flint is unwavering.
Through the challenges of the pandemic and beyond, our APPs have shown resilience, adaptability and unmatched dedication. They work side by side, around the clock, always ready to step up when the community and our patients need them the most. They are more than healthcare providers—they are leaders, innovators and compassionate caregivers who make Hurley’s mission a reality every single day. As we celebrate our APPs, let us recognize not only their medical expertise but also their heart and commitment to our patients and our community.
HURLEY
Nomus Salam, Tonia Masxon, Lindsey Dieck, Donna Corkins, Patricia Garzelloni, Kelli Pyles Camrion Bona, Mackenzie Janssen, Meredith Rinke, Melissa Miller
I am truly proud of how far our APP team has come and the incredible dedication they show every day. We work tirelessly, often without recognition, yet we profoundly impact the lives of our patients, guiding them through some of their most vulnerable moments. We are there for the first breaths and the last, witnessing the full circle of life and giving our all to those who need it most. Our work is not just a job—it’s a calling, and I am honored to stand beside such a compassionate and resilient team.
-Noimus Salam, PA-C, Physician Assistant, Director of Allied Health & Advanced Practice Providers
Sarah Vincke, Melanie Krznarich, Patricia Garzelloni, Donna Corkins, Noimus Salam Megan Bisel, Devon Valent, Mackenzie Janssen, Annsley Metz, Taylor Zuhl, Aleesha Kilbreath
PUBLIC SAFETY HURLEY YOU
Protecting the Healing Hands of Hurley
There are so many diverse backgrounds all mixed together in our department--from police officers, fire fighters, EMTs, military, security and other walks of life. The knowledge they all bring and that they are willing to share, speaks very highly of our team. It is amazing how well we all work together. We all work hard to create a safety culture within Hurley.
-Eric Young, Public Safety Officer – 3rd Shift
Matt Murray, Danny Shuck, Deandria Perkins, Keith Rutherford, Karen Whitman, Matt Yonan, Rayford Gray
What is a “regular” day at Hurley Medical Center? If you asked any of the staff who make up Hurley’s Public Safety Department, you would quickly learn that there is absolutely no such thing.
Hurley’s Department of Public Safety is a professional, in-house, healthcare public safety department, whose entire mission is to ensure a safe and secure healing environment for our patients, families and staff. The manner in which this environment is achieved is solely unique to Hurley. Providing non-stop, around the clock security services to the medical center is a staff of 30 public safety officers (PSOs), supported by a command staff including sergeants, a lieutenant, director and an administrative professional. Uniformed public safety officers can be seen on and around campus responding to emergent calls and non-emergent requests for service. Supplemented by the services of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, public safety officers are an irreplaceable member of the patient care team and a critical resource for the medical center.
With an annual average of 21,000 calls for service, Public Safety is required to remain ready and adaptable to respond to and mitigate a wide spectrum of incidents. Hurley PSOs are well trained and equipped with the skills necessary to promote positive patient and family outcomes and to limit and mitigate risk to the medical center. This training includes Non-Violent Crisis Intervention and De-Escalation, Patient Restraint and Physical Management, CPR/BLS and PPCT Defensive Tactics and subject control.
Officers regularly find themselves assisting hospital staff with de-escalating and managing physically-aggressive patients, providing escorts and wayfinding services, investigating traffic accidents and property
damage, thefts and suspicious incidents, providing weapons screening at the Emergency Department, responding to medical emergencies, providing access and assistance to various departments and visitors to the medical center, just to name a few.
So who are these officers who come to our aid, every time we call? Who are these individuals who routinely step between Hurley staff and the threatening unknown?
They are mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, husbands and wives. Many are lifelong residents of the Flint community. While others are transplants, with fresh ideas and perspectives. They are talented musicians and artists. They are military veterans. They are current and former first responders who have spent their entire careers, providing for the safety of others. They are amazing chefs. (Stop by a Public Safety function and taste
for yourself.) They are devout members of their churches and communities. They are property investors, budding photographers and entrepreneurs. Some have dreams of long careers in public service. While others have found new motivation, using their extensive background and experience to mentor new officers.
Individually, all members of the public safety team, possess specifically-unique attributes and abilities. Deploying as a team allows for individual strengths to become a shared resource, ensuring that those who need help, get help; that those who need to be heard, will have our full attention; and those requiring intervention will be treated with the utmost compassion and care.
“When everything is said and done, Hurley is an old pile of bricks and cement. It is the skills, passion and dedication of the employees that are the foundation, heartbeat and what truly makes Hurley’s mission possible. The same is true of the Public Safety team here at Hurley. As ambassadors of safety and integrity, they affect positive change in the lives of our patients and staff on a daily basis. I am so incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to work alongside, learn from and lead some of the most amazing, brave and compassionate people I have ever had the chance to know. ”
-Matthew Murray, PEM, CHEP, Director, Department of Public Safety
Noah Jackson, Kevin Herron, Erick Siegel, Walt Cook, Janet Rideout, Andrew Bade, Tarrell McDaniel
Tommy Taylor, Corey Hart, Craig Sepanak, Brennan Glazier, Roy Ozier, Matt Murray
Matt Murray, Reuben Bullock, Danny Shuck, William Koryciak, Matt Yonan, Rodney Patterson
Benita Smith, Katie Pierce, Mikel Peterson
Craig Sepanak, Corey Hart, Clifford Hooker, Roy Ozier
David Carmichael
PUMPKIN CONTEST
1st Prize Labor & Delivery
2nd Prize Nutrition Services
3rd Price Children & Family Life
Thank you to everyone who participated in our Pumpkin Decorating Contest! We were thrilled by the incredible creativity and talent displayed in all of the entries. With so many amazing pumpkins to choose from, selecting the winners was no easy task. Your efforts truly brought a festive spirit to the event, and we appreciate each and every one of you for making it such a fun and vibrant experience!
INGREDIENTS
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup coconut flour
• 2 tsp pumpkin spice
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup melted coconut oil (or butter)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 eggs
DIRECTIONS
• Preheat 350⁰F and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
• Combine the almond and coconut flour, pumpkin spice, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. Set aside.
• In a separate large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, honey, sugar, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and eggs. Whisk to form a batter.
• Add the dry ingredients to the wet and combine. Set aside for 5 minutes to allow the coconut flour to absorb the moisture. Pour batter in the pan.
• Bake for 35 minutes covered. Uncover and bake an additional 30 minutes. Cool before slicing and serving.
HALLOWEEN NICU BABIES
Over the past 16 years, through Hurley Foundation, Hurley Medical Center and Financial Plus Credit Union have raised money to help breast cancer patients access healthcare, financial, groceries and so much more. Funds raised go towards Hurley Foundation’s Breast Cancer Navigation & General Cancer Services Fund.
The world's largest popcorn ball was created by hundreds of volunteers in Sac City, Iowa on June 18, 2016. The ball weighed 9,370 pounds—made up of almost 5 tons of popcorn—and was 12 feet in diameter. The ball was built at the Noble Popcorn plant where the volunteers worked to re-claim the "world's largest" title—a title the city had held 3 times prior.
PHILIP MACHECA’S
TRIUMPH:
HURLEY EMPLOYEE OVERCOMES TRAGEDY TO ACHIEVE CHAMPION AWARD INSPIRING STRENGTH AND HUMILITY.
Phil is one of those nurses that always has a smile on his face and is always willing to lend a hand to help others. Phil approached every shift with a positive attitude and his joy was infectious. During tough times in the Emergency Department, you could always count on Phil to lift everyone’s spirits. His kind and gentle approach always brought great comfort to the patients during their time of need. Phil made sure to take the time with every one of his patients to ensure they received the best possible care possible. I'm a better person today because of Phil.
- Mike McCartney, RN, BSN, Nurse Manager, Emergency Department
Phil is one of the most compassionate and empathetic nurses I have ever had the pleasure to work with. When patients arrived that required a high amount of emotional support it was usually Phil that would be assigned to manage their care. He set the standard for all other nurses to strive for when treating patients focusing on both their physical and emotional needs. Phil consistently received praise from his patients for the care he delivered, but as important as praise from his patients is the thanks he received from his peers was second to none and shown that he not only cared about his patients but his ED team as well. To demonstrate the level of admiration that everyone feels for Phil, both current Hurley ED team members and many former Hurley ED team members came together and created a fundraiser to help raise money for Phil to purchase a mobility device that would allow him access to outdoor areas to pursue his passion of hunting. The number of Hurley ED family that showed that day was a true testament of how Phil has touched every one of us in such a positive way.
-Bill
Thompson, Hurley ED Retiree
PHILIP MACHECA’S TRIUMPH:
Phil Macheca’s story is tragic but also positive and encouraging. He was an RN in Hurley’s Emergency Department working there since 2011. In November 2021, Phil was injured as a result of a fall while on a hunting trip with friends. His injury was a trauma to the T10 vertebra in the thoracolumbar region of the spine. An injury to the T10 vertebra can result in a limited or complete loss of use of the lower abdomen muscles, legs or feet. Phil’s injury resulted in the loss of use of his legs. A heartbreaking tragedy but Phil’s endurance and strength of character still persevered. Phil noted how he loved working in our ED. He emphasized repeatedly his gratitude and appreciation to his ED coworkers and all those who have and continue to support him. He says there are so many.
Phil was referred by a friend and coworker, Paula Walko, Hurley Social Worker, to Michigan Rehabilitation Services. “Phil is an amazing nurse! He has been such a great coworker and friend. I was honored to help him with MRS,” says Paula. At MRS, Phil was assigned to a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, Zach Tomlinson. “Phil was an ideal candidate for our services. He had a great attitude and was willing to learn and do whatever it took to get back to work,” says Zack. MRS provides individuals with training or other services they need to return to work, enter a new line of work, stay in the workforce or enter the workforce for the first time. Phil expressed the importance of returning to work in order to continue his role as a reliable husband and father. For him, it was more difficult not to
HURLEY EMPLOYEE OVERCOMES TRAGEDY TO ACHIEVE CHAMPION AWARD INSPIRING STRENGTH AND HUMILITY.
find a way back than to remain on disability. MRS helped him navigate through his return to work. This included relearning to drive with hand controls and even participating in driver’s training for special driving services. MRS even assisted him in getting a new vehicle outfitted with all of the adaptations he would require, allowing him to regain his independence behind the wheel.
Completing MRS, Phil was offered a position here in Quality Management. In this position, he is instrumental in resolving provider-payer conflicts in defining clinical sepsis and reimbursing care. Phil’s knowledge of emergency room medicine is definitely a benefit. Phil takes his job very seriously. He stressed the importance of meeting deadlines and that he strives to do so. Julia Hoffman, Quality and Patient Safety Director, could not agree more, noting, “Phil fit right in as the clinical abstractor for the Hospital Medicine Safety Consortium's Sepsis Project bringing his clinical experience in the Emergency Department to help identify improvement opportunities. Not only is Phil easy to get along with, he has a great work ethic and gets the job done perfectly! We are happy to have him on our Quality Team.”
any of the opportunities I have been blessed with. You are my rock!” Phil can definitely be described as an outdoorsman. He enjoys hunting, fishing or just being outdoors whenever possible. He shared how his ED Team held a fundraiser raising money to purchase a Coyote Adaptive Off-Road Vehicle. Phil explained that a Coyote is an adaptive, electric off-road vehicle suitable for wheelchair users who enjoy the outdoors. Phil noted that he definitely has used the Coyote. He shared that he still hunts and even went bear hunting. A fun hunting story for all to enjoy is in the link below.
While I could bask in the limelight, I would rather express my gratitude for all those who have and continue to touch my life. I truly appreciate it. I truly appreciate everything from their just being there to the fundraiser that was held on my behalf.
-Phil Macheca
Phil has endured a long road that included extensive rehabilitation and even a surgical procedure. Life is different now, but Phil was and still is a part of the Hurley Family! Hurley is fortunate to welcome Phil to our Quality Management Department. In addition to his new position, MRS recognized Phil for his resilience, employable skills and talents by presenting him with their “Services Champion Award.” Phil personifies what is possible when championing a diverse and inclusive workforce. Please join us as we celebrate Phil and his recognition from Michigan Rehabilitation Services.
Phil expressed appreciation to his wife, Karyn, and two sons, Marcus 20 and Jacob 24. He noted, “I want to thank my wife, Karyn, who works so hard every day taking care of me. Without her, I would not be able to pursue
Scan QR code to read Phil Macheca's Bear Hunting Story
HURLEY HEALTHY LIVING SERIES REPAIRING HERNIAS, RESTORING LIVES.
The Hurley Healthy Living Series, Repairing Hernias, Restoring Lives took place on Tuesday, October 22, 2024. This in-person event took place in Fenton with presenters, Dr. Adam Howell and Dr. Gavin Huber. Both discussed and answered questions on routine and complex hernia surgeries.
At Hurley’s Hernia Center of Excellence, we are the experts in developing effective, minimally invasive procedures based on each patient’s individual needs. Our surgeons have extensive experience repairing all types of hernias, but equally important is their ability to discuss treatment alternatives with patients and walk them through their options for repair, including the benefits and possible complications. The goal of the Hurley Hernia program is rapid recovery, getting patients back to doing what they love most, free of hernia pain.
Whether it is a non-mesh (also called tissue based or primary repair), or the most common procedure for inguinal hernia repair–the meshbased Lichtenstein Repair–treatment will be determined on a case-by-case basis. We strive to give our patients the tools needed to make an informed decision with guidance from a board certified surgeon responsible for hundreds of successful hernia repairs each year. What is best for the patient–and what leads to the least chance of recurrence–will always be our guide.
To learn more about the Hurley Center of Excellence, visit: hurleymc.com/services/hernia-center/
code or call
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.
CONGRESSMAN KILDEE ATTENDS PRESS CONFERENCE AT HURLEY DIABETES CENTER
Congressman Dan Kildee (D-Flint) and health professionals at the Hurley Diabetes Center, Endocrinologist Dr. Thawani and Tamesa Martin RN, Community Outreach Advocate, spoke on the importance of lowering prescription medication prices, particularly insulin. Not only was discussion held regarding effects of insulin costs on diabetes patients but also how it affects the community.
“The actual cost of producing a vial of insulin versus what the over the counter costs can be is something that just should not be acceptable,” Kildee said.
Kildee highlighted recent federal actions that have lowered the cost of some medications for seniors on Medicare, including capping insulin at $35 per month, but he wants to make sure all Americans will pay no more than $35 for the lifesaving drug.
Patient Resource Community Advocate Nurse, Tarnesa Martin, said patients fear going to the hospital because they are afraid of being prescribed another medication they cannot afford.“
I know a lot of times we think that a lot of the marginalized communities are not compliant,” Martin said. “But it‘s not that they’re not compliant, they just don‘t have access, and to be denied access because of financial costs... it’s not right.”
Kildee, whose daughter has Type 1 diabetes, re-introduced the Affordable Insulin Now Act to Congress with hopes of passing it before the next Congress comes in.
2024 CAPE AWARD NOMINEE
STEVEN GARTY, ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
Hurley is proud to announce that Steven Garty, Environmental Technician, was nominated for the Cintas Corporation 2024 “Cleaning to Advance the Patient Experience” C.A.P.E. Award. In honor of Environmental Services (EVS) week, Cintas is proud to announce the winners of its 2024 C.A.P.E. Awards. These awards were established to recognize professionals “Cleaning to Advance the Patient Experience.” C.A.P.E. Awards celebrate EVS staff in acute and long-term care facilities who are at the frontline of patient care providing clean and safe facilities for healthcare workers, patients, residents and visitors across the country. Ten Environmental Services (EVS) technicians at the frontline of patient care and sanitation were nominated and selected based on the quality of their service and dedication.
Steven has been with the environmental Service department for over 27 years. He takes pride in his work. He goes above and beyond the call of duty as a tech. He walks the Medical Center to see where we need improvements. He offers to train new employees. He enjoys speaking with new vendors to see what's new outside of Hurley. He wears many hats that he is not recognized for. Everyone in the Medical Center loves him and values his opinions.” -Nomination Annoymous
Jonathan Rose (Cintas), Steven Garty, Steven Garty Jr. (son), Brooklyn Garty (daughter), Monique Ruffin
Steven Garty, Jonathan Rose (Cintas)
MYCHART PAPERLESS BILLING FAQ - REVENUE CYCLE
What?
Revenue Cycle prints and mails over 250,000 patient statements every year. To reduce expenses associated with paper statements, promote environmental stewardship and drive more patients to MyChart, active MyChart users will be defaulted to paperless billing automatically on November 10th 2024.
So What?
As a Hurley Medical Center employee, you may encounter questions from patients in addition to being personally impacted if you are an active MyChart user.
Now What?
The purpose of this message is to serve as a document to help support you in answering questions from patients.
All Hurley Medical Center employees will be notified of the change via an all Hurley email. You will also see a notification on our website, and at the MyChart login.
MyChart users impacted by the conversion to paperless billing will receive a MyChart, email, or letter in the mail notifying them of this change. These notifications will provide the steps the patient can take to opt back in to receiving paper statements.
Important notes to mention:
• The conversion will impact active MyChart users who have not already designated a delivery method for their statement as well as patients who have elected to receive email communications from the medical center.
• MyChart users 70 years old or older will not be defaulted to paperless billing, but can elect to change to paperless themselves.
• Three statements are sent as part of the normal patient billing cycle. If a payment or payment plan is not received after a 2nd e-statement, a paper statement will be generated if mailed.
• Patients can view their monthly statement in MyChart under the Billing Account Summary section of the Billing tab.
• When a new statement is ready to review, the patient will receive a MyChart or email/text notification.
• If a patient needs a paper copy of their statement, they can print it directly from MyChart.
• Patients who do wish to receive a paper bill can log in to MyChart at mychart.hurleymc.com and update their paperless billing and communication preferences.
Thank you for your support of this change. If a patient needs additional information or further assistance, please refer them to our customer service team at 810-262-9255. For escalated concerns please contact Shannon Yancey syancey1@hurleymc.com or Jake Dobbs jdobbs1@hurleymc.com
B ALANCE EYES
If your patient develops new stroke-like symptoms, call Rapid Response and/or activate Inpatient CODE STROKE protocol. If an outpatient, family member or staff member develops new stroke-like symptoms, proceed to the ED immediately.
HURLEY HOSPITAL:
A BEACON OF HOPE IN REDUCING INFANT MORTALITY
For nearly 40 years, the Michigan Council for Maternal and Child Health (MCMCH) has been at the forefront of the state's public health policy advocacy, working to enhance the well-being of mothers and their children. Part of their work involves collaborating with hospitals to understand their needs for reducing infant mortality rates. Hurley’s approach to maternal and infant care is a prime example of how health care institutions can profoundly impact communities. One example is Hurley’s role in reducing infant mortality rates, an issue that has long plagued Michigan.
Michigan Council for Maternal and Child Health: Advocating for mothers and children
While the state's overall infant mortality rate mirrors the national average, the alarming discrepancies in outcomes for African American and Indigenous infants demand urgent attention.
“There’s been over $100 million in new funding in the maternal and infant health space,” Zaagman says. “Some of that has gone towards funding an extension to Medicaid postpartum coverage from sixty days to twelve months.”
And that’s just one example. Currently, there are more than 20 bills introduced in the state legislature to try and improve maternal and infant health.
Legislative efforts and new funding initiatives
Hurley served as inspiration for many of those bills, from pioneering initiatives like the Centering Pregnancy Program to embracing home visiting services and specialized care for substance-exposed infants. Hurley has set a high standard for maternal and infant health care.
“Hurley is constantly looking for those partnerships and embracing those commitments, partnering with anyone who will partner to make good things happen,” says Zaagman.
Hurley’s holistic approach, along with a deep-rooted commitment to community engagement, underscores their dedication to the health of mothers and babies in Michigan.
Rooming-In Program: A model for maternal and infant care
One of the ways Hurley is improving maternal and infant health is through their Rooming-In Program. The program keeps moms and their substanceexposed babies together in a quiet room until the baby recovers. This allows for bonding between mom and baby and reduces stress on the baby while they are recovering from detox. Zaagman says it’s not just the programming that’s innovative; it’s the way Hurley finds funding for these programs, either through grants or community partnerships. That process allows Hurley to fast-track programs and influence care in other hospitals across the state.
“Hurley shows it works,” Zaagman says. “We learn from them that these types of programs make a difference, and then we approach the legislature and say we need funding so we can make this available to other hospitals.”
It’s how MCMCH was able to help secure $1.3 million for rooming-in programs at five birthing hospitals in the state using opioid settlement dollars awarded to Michigan.
Collaborative efforts towards reducing infant mortality
Hurley's success serves as both an inspiration and a call to action for other health care providers. By sharing best practices and advocating for resources, MCMCH aims to catalyze similar transformations across the state. Through strategic partnerships and evidence-based policies, MCMCH strives to create a system where every mother and child receives the care and support they deserve.
Reducing infant mortality takes more than just funding. Zaagman emphasizes the need for sustained investment, cultural transformation and a commitment to equity. It’s the collective efforts of public health organizations like the MCMCH and institutions like Hurley that continue to push for change when it comes to improving infant mortality rates.
“They’re doing the extra work. They’re doing group-based prenatal care. Working with substance-exposed infants. They’re doing home visits. They’re making every connection," says Zaagman.
PHYSICIAN CONNECTION
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.)
NOVEMBER 21, 2024 – Thursday (Hybrid – In Person & Virtual) Hyatt Place Flint/Grand Blanc 5481 Hill-23 Drive, Flint, MI 48507
5:30pm – 7:30pm
Approved for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit ™
Physican Support Line
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.
Behavioral Health
Nirlep Kaur, NP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hurley Behavioral Medicine 2C & 2D
1 Hurley Plaza
2C & 2D
Flint, MI 48503
Phone: (810) 262-9406
Fax: (810) 262-6607
Emergency Medicine
Lauren Henegar, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Hurley Department of Emergency Medicine
One Hurley Plaza
Flint, MI 48503
County: Genesee
Phone: (810) 262-9429
Fax: (810) 262-9104
Medicine
Jessica Ashley, PA-C
ICCU Physician Assistant
Hurley Medical Center - ICCU
One Hurley Plaza - 4 East
Flint, MI 48503
Phone: (810) 262-9020
Fax: (810) 262-6413
Moussa Bazzi, MD
Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Providers TEK
4700 Greenfield Rd
Ste 2E
Dearborn, MI 48126
Phone: (313) 740-1111
Fax: (313) 672-6241
Jennifer Charneski, NP
Cardiology Nurse Practitioner
Heart Rhythm Clinic of Michigan
1386 S. Linden Rd
Flint, MI 48532
Phone: (810) 285-8501
Fax: (810) 285-8468
Nina-Rikka Cobilla, PA-C
ICCU Physician Assistant
Hurley Medical Center - ICCU
One Hurley Plaza - 4 East
Flint, MI 48503
Phone: (810) 262-9020
Fax: (810) 262-6413
Sri Guntupalli, MD
Nephrology
Kidney Disease & Hypertension Consultants, PC - Flint
2486 Nerredia Drive
Suite E
Flint, MI 48532
Phone: (810) 230-9901
Fax: (810) 230-9916
Surgery
Abdullah Al-Arfaj, MD
Neurosurgery
IINN - Insight Institute of Neurosurgery & Neuroscience
4800 S. Saginaw St
Suite 1800
Flint, MI 48507
Phone: (810) 732-8336
Fax: (810) 963-1674
David Batzos, NP
Neurosurgery Physician Assistant
IINN - Insight Institute of Neurosurgery & Neuroscience
