Mega Doctor News May 2017

• June in 2014 • PSJA-ISD Seniors dually enrolled at STC – 1st in Nation to Graduate with Associate Degree Nursing

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Harlingen Dentist Releases Book about Government Corruption in Texas Medicaid May 2017

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Dr. Carlos Cardenas Named President of Largest Medical Association

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Publisher’s Word - Visionary Doctor named Texas Medical Association President Mega Doctor - Dr. Carlos Cardenas Named President of Largest Medical Association The Women’s Hospital at Renaissance receives Texas Ten Step Designation from the Texas Department of State Health Services Mega Story - Harlingen Dentist Releases Book about Government Corruption in Texas Medicaid Valley Baptist-Harlingen to Begin Construction on Pediatric Fast Track Emergency Room Unit “The Red Ball” – Third Annual Celebration Advanced Interventional Radiology Procedures in Weslaco Can Help Save Patients from Foot Amputations 5K Walk / Run to be held in Weslaco May 20 Help Preserve McAllen’s Heritage with 2017 "Chuckwagon Dinner" The Get Healthy Mega Clinic Proudly Welcomes the City of Pharr as Their Platinum Sponsor Valley Baptist-Harlingen Inpatient Rehabilitation Services Help Patients Regain Sense of Well-Being, Independence Dr. John H. Krouse named New Dean of the School of Medicine New Treatment Option available at Valley Baptist-Brownsville for Patients Suffering from Peripheral Artery Disease Doctors Hospital at Renaissance Chief Nursing Officer given UTRGV Distinguished Alumni Award Dr. Leo Lopez III Wins National Honor Nearly 4,000 Local Student Athletes Went Through Physicals Exams Behavioral Hospital at Renaissance Celebrates Mental Health Month STC, DHR and PSJA ISD Dual Credit Seniors first in Nation to Graduate with Associate Degree in Nursing MDN

Mega Doctor News welcomes comments and suggestions, or complaints about errors that warrant correction. Comments on editorial content may be e-mailed to robertog@ tbbmega.com or call at 956-451-4585. Readers dissatisfied with a response or concerned about the paper’s journalistic integrity may reach the publisher at robertohgonzalez@sbcglobal.net.

Dr. Carlos Cardenas Named President of Largest Medical Association

Mega Story

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Harlingen Dentist Releases Book about Government Corruption in Texas Medicaid Dr. Juan Villarreal

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By Bill Kelter

STC, DHR and PSJA ISD dual credit seniors first in nation to graduate with Associate Degree in Nursing Dr. Ashraf Hilmy

Shirley Wells recognized among top 100 Influential People in Occupational Therapy

• DISCLAIMER• The information provided herein should not be construed as a healthcare diagnosis, treatment regimen or any other prescribed healthcare advice or instruction. The information is provided with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in the practice of medicine or any other healthcare profession and does not enter into a health-care practitioner/ patient relationship with its readers. The publisher does not advise or recommend to its readers treatment or action with regard to matters relating to their health or wellbeing other than to suggest that readers consult appropriate health-care professionals in such matters. No action should be taken based solely on the content of this publication. The information and opinions provided herein are believed to be accurate and sound at the time of publication, based on the best judgment available to the authors. However, readers who rely on information in this publication to replace the advice of healthcare professionals, assume all risks of such conduct. The publisher is not responsible for errors or omissions. MDN

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• May 2017 •

Publisher’s Word

Visionary Doctor named Texas Medical Association President

This accomplishment was almost four decades in the making

Roberto Hugo Gonzalez Publisher

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uring the time that I have been publishing Mega Doctor News, I have met many doctors. Physicians that have had the best education and training in healthcare in the best schools from all over the nation and abroad. I have also met doctors that save lives with specialties unique for this area.

Today, no one can argue, that Edinburg gastroenterologist, Dr. Carlos J. Cardenas is not one of them. Ever since he began to practice medicine he has been involved in events that benefit the people of the Valley. It does not matter what must be done, it does not matter if help is needed far away, he will be there. He is one physician that will always respond to the call for help.

This month, the Texas Medical Association (TMA) installed Carlos J. Cardenas, MD, as its 152nd president. He took office in a ceremony before TMA’s House of Delegates policymaking body

at TexMed, TMA’s annual conference, in Houston. He will lead the extraordinary Texas Medical Association, America’s largest state medical society for one year.

It is an association that binds itself to important principals. Their Vision is to improve the health of all Texans.

Their Mission is to stand up for Texas physicians by providing distinctive solutions to the challenges they encounter in the care of patients.

On Another Matter: Great news, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley has named Dr. John H. Krouse as its new vice president for Medical Affairs and dean of the School of Medicine.

Krouse comes to the Valley from Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he served as the senior associate dean for clinical affairs; Dr. Carlos Cardenas

president of Temple University Physicians; professor and chairman of the Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery; and director of the Head and Neck Institute at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine. He also served as associate dean for Graduate Medical Education from 2012 to 2015.

Nurses, Nurses, Nurses: Seniors from Pharr- San JuanAlamo ISD that were dually enrolled at South Texas College, have become the first cohort of students in the nation to graduate with an Associate Degree in Nursing… straight out of high school. These graduates will help fill an increasing need for nurses.

Denouncing corruption in Medicaid: Dr. Juan D. Villarreal, the owner and operator of Harlingen Family Dentistry wrote a book about Government Corruption in Texas Medicaid. The book, released in 2017, is

a must read. This is a powerful exposé of government corruption which had relentlessly targeted Texas dentists like himself. The book is called Truth Decay — How Government Corruption Caused a Political Scandal Victimizing Texas Dentists and How It Could Happen to You! Proud to Know: Mega Doctor News has known of Dr. Leo Lopez III since he was attending South Texas College. We are so proud of him; all his accomplishments are inspiring. Today we are announcing that he won a National Honor.

Read more in this issue. MDN

We Do Social Media Mega Doctor News 4917 friends + 883 likes @MegaDoctor 408 followers /robertohgonzalez 6226 followers

Mega Doctor News - May 2017

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• May 2017 •

MEGA DOCTOR

Dr. Carlos Cardenas Named President of Largest Medical Association

By Roberto Hugo Gonzalez

and accept the responsibility as leader of the health care team, hat a in the name of providing the memorable best patient care. Sometimes event, as the that means rolling up one’s largest medical group, the Texas sleeves.

Medical Association (TMA) “I learned to never installed Dr. Carlos J. Cardenas ask anybody to do something as its 152nd president during their I wasn’t willing to do myself. annual conference. Dr. Cardenas, I was willing to set the tone a native of the Rio Grande and to at least show that I was Valley, practices in the field of willing,” he said. That attitude gastroenterology. is partly why he said he is ready In his 28th year of to lead the nation’s largest practice, Dr. Cardenas chairs state medical society during the Rio Grande Valley’s Doctors discussions of undoing the Hospital at Renaissance, which he Affordable Care Act and other helped found and serves as chief potential health care changes. administrative officer.

“When those This reporter has had opportunities arise, our TMA the opportunity to speak with Dr. is up to the challenge,” he said.

Cardenas on multiple occasions; “Bring it on!” The 33-year the first time was in 2008. In an TMA member has seized many article titled “From the Bedside opportunities. Dr. Cardenas to the Boardroom,” he became chaired the association’s Board our first Mega Doctor in that year. of Trustees, its governing body.

According to the conversation Prior to joining the Board in that Dr. Cardenas and I had, he 2005, he served five years as a said it was a most appropriate Dr. Cardenas is a dedicated physician, to his patients and communities that he serves. member of the TMA Council title because that is exactly on Legislation, and was what DHR doctors do legislative chair of the Border continually.

Health Caucus, to which he still belongs. stated.

The years have He is a delegate in TMA’s House of According to gone by fast; however, Delegates. Dr. Cardenas also is a member history told by him, “What he has not changed. He of the TMA Foundation, the association’s is now Tamaulipas, the is the same professional, philanthropic arm; a TMA liaison to the Mexican state adjacent always eager, looking for Coalition of State Medical Societies; and to south Texas was first solutions and providing is a founding and Patron Club member incorporated as a separate the best medical care for of TEXPAC, TMA’s political action province of New Spain in the communities of the Rio committee (on which he also served as a 1746 with the name Nuevo Grande Valley. district chair).

Santander.”

As you all know, Dr. Cardenas regularly advocates Dr. Mario E. Ramirez He and his wife of becoming the president on behalf of medicine and patient care.

28 years, Chris Cardenas, of the Texas Medical He attends TMA’s “First Tuesdays at have three sons, Adam Association is no small the Capitol” legislative lobby days each R. Cardenas, Simon C. accomplishment. As a session. He has testified numerous times Cardenas, and Daniel O. matter of fact, the only before the Texas Legislature, and has Cardenas. His parents are other Valley physician to advised elected officials and policymakers Mr. Ruben R. Cardenas and have had that honor was in Texas and in Washington on health Mrs. Dardanella G. Dr. Mario E. Ramirez, 38 matters.

Cardenas. years ago. Dr. Ramirez, Dr. Cardenas also was a “I am looking who is originally from member of the TMA Physician Services Dr. Carlos Cardenas became our forward to an exciting year Rio Grande City, became Organization (PSO) steering committee, Mega Doctor in September 2008. of advocacy on behalf of our the 75th president of the Dr. Ruben R. patients and my colleagues,” community involvement, what I learned which led to the formation of TMA association serving one Cardenas stated Dr. Cardenas. “With about politics I learned from my dad; that’s PracticeEdge, TMA’s PSO. Dr. Cardenas year between 1979-1980. It all the uncertainty coming where I got it.” (He said in an interview in also served as president of the Hidalgotook almost four decades for Starr County Medical Society, of which out of Washington, and TMA’s Texas Medicine magazine.) another Rio Grande Valley native to again he still is a member. take the helm of this important and unique the instability in the health care arena, Yet his father wasn’t his only He also appeared several years I believe opportunities will present leadership role model. “You have to lead association. ago in a series of informational TMA themselves in abundance to drive policy Dr. Cardenas has always said that by example; that’s something I learned “Hey, Doc” videos designed to explain the he is very proud of being from McAllen. and opinion in the best interest of our from my grandmother, my mom’s mom. new federal Affordable Care Act. TMA He is related to many people since his patients and our profession.”

I was the oldest of 17 grandchildren and produced the videos and other material to Some close to him might say this she used to tell me that I had to set the parents come from two old families from inform patients — and physicians whose centuries ago. He told Mega Doctor News day was inevitable; Dr. Cardenas grew up example (for the younger children).” patients often turn to for answers — about observing strong leadership in his family. that on his father’s side, his family has “I think that applies to you in how to adapt to the new health law. He traced their lineage all the way to 1740. “My dad is a type AAA personality,” he every aspect of your training when you also helped lead TMA’s fight for medical He pointed out that in the 1754 census of said. “He was all about community and are becoming a physician,” he added. liability reform, which became Texas law community development.

If there was a Camargo, Tamaulipas, Mexico, they were “You learn very quickly when you are an in 2003. Doctors in the Rio Grande Valley board, he served on it.

If he wasn’t just counted as one of the Garcia’s. “My father intern that you need to follow the example and a few other Texas cities planted that is Ruben Cardenas Garcia, so our ancestor serving on it, he was chair.” of those who are more senior than you “I think what I learned about are, and who know more than you do.” seed when they believed rampant medical was there; he came with that expedition to colonize Nuevo Santander,” Dr. Cardenas leadership, what I learned about Eventually, he said, you learn to step up Continued on page 23

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• May 2017 • Mega Doctor News

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dinburg, TX— Doctors Hospital at Renaissance Health System (DHR) and the Women’s Hospital at Renaissance have taken a giant step towards improving the health of newborns and infants by earning the Texas Ten Step Program facility designation from the Texas Department of State Health Services. Founded in 1999, the Texas Ten Step Program serves as a method to improve maternity care practices in birthing facilities. This is the fifth time that DHR has been designated as a Texas Ten Step Program facility, earning its original designation in 2008.

The long-term benefits of breastfeeding for babies and mothers are undisputed. Breastfeeding is linked to a decreased risk for infant illness and mortality, as well as reduced risk for maternal illness. The Texas Ten Step Program encourages breastfeeding as the preferred method of feeding for newborns and infants. DHR joins a growing number of Texas birth facilities that are supporting new mothers in their decision to breastfeed.

Based on the World Health Organization (WHO)/ UNICEF’s “Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding,” the program aims to assist birth facility’s support of breastfeeding mothers before, during, and after delivery; encourages facilities to identify breastfeeding resources for the mother after she is discharged; and assists facilities in improving on national performance measures such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Breastfeeding Report Card. The goal of the Texas Ten Step Program is to

The Women’s Hospital at Renaissance receives Texas Ten Step Designation from the Texas Department of State Health Services

Pictured Above: As the preferred method of feeding for newborns and infants, breastfeeding is linked to a decreased risk for infant illness and mortality. increase breastfeeding initiation rates to 82 percent.

The Women’s Hospital at Renaissance (WHR) has nurses that are specially trained in breastfeeding who can help with breastfeeding basics as well as more advanced techniques when necessary. Our team also consists of board-certified lactation consultants who provide assistance, education and special

to help birthing facilities improve breastfeeding outcomes through incremental adoption of evidence-based practices.

The designation recognizes hospitals that are implementing policies that are Pictured Above: The Texas Ten Step Program aims to assist aligned with the support of breastfeeding for mothers before, during, the “Ten Steps and after delivery. to Successful Breastfeeding” and breastfeeding equipment for new mothers. encourages continued progress toward WHR also houses the county’s only pursuit of Baby-Friendly Hospital milk depot, where mothers can donate designation. their milk to The Mother’s Milk Bank “We have worked very hard to earn at Austin, which is the largest milk bank the Texas Ten Step Program designation,” in the country. Donated mother’s milk said Aida Gonzalez, MSN, RN, Vice is pasteurized, yet 70% of the immune President at the Women’s Hospital at factors that help protect babies from Renaissance. “And we are proud to join the illness are preserved. Lifesaving donated other select Texas hospitals in promoting milk given at the Women’s Hospital at breastfeeding to our new mothers.”

Renaissance goes to babies in Texas and For more information on the Texas all over the United States, providing them Ten Step Program, call Veronica Hendrix, with a safe alternative when mom’s own Program Coordinator at (512) 341-4592, milk is not available. or visit the web site at www.texastenstep.

The Texas Ten Step Program org MDN provides resources and a framework

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• May 2017 •

MEGA STORY

Denounces Corruption of the Worst Kind

Harlingen Dentist Releases Book about Government Corruption in Texas Medicaid Dr. Juan Villarreal helped fix it

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By Bill Keltner Texas Border Business

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supportive crowd of fellow dentists, patients and friends jammed the second-floor conference room of the Harlingen Family Dentistry offices of Dr. Juan D. Villarreal to hear his powerful expose of government corruption which had relentlessly targeted Texas dentists like himself.

The good doctor thanked his audience and signed countless copies of his book: TRUTH DECAY--How Government Corruption Caused a Political Scandal Victimizing Texas Dentists and How It Could Happen to You! The courageous doctor wrote this powerful book to describe his struggle with the top bureaucrats of the Texas Health and Human Service Commission and its Office of Inspector General who had targeted him and his practice in 2011 with serious but false allegations of misconduct within the Medicaid program. The ensuring battle tested his belief in himself and pushed his practice to the brink of financial collapse with the state withholding over a million dollars in payments for services delivered to poor children in the Rio Grande Valley. How could he pay his staff?

He describes it as the confrontation had by little David of Bible times with Goliath, a fearsome giant of a man. His story is a first-hand tale of right and wrong. Like the shepherd boy, the doctor bravely took on an intimidating giant, and in both battles, the little guy won.

Doctor Villarreal won his case just like David--Now, he wants the world to know about it.

The meeting got under way when Doctor Villarreal was introduced by Public Relations Director Gail Thomasan, who told the audience that the doctor is “my boss and my friend." Gail is a retired school teacher, who now works with the doctor. She continued: "I've worked for him for many years, and know him to be a man of principle, integrity and dedication," she said. "That is why this book had to be written to right many wrongs and protect others from possible harm."

Villarreal began on a personal note: "These are exciting times for me," he said, adding, "I never thought that I would be a writer. In fact,” he laughed, “writing for me as a student was my worst subject. But, here we are. Let me begin by telling you who I am, the story of my experience with governmental corruption, and why I had to write this book."

Doctor Villarreal has been a dentist for over thirty-three years with a prospering practice in Texas. His business has grown to be one of the largest single family dental facilities in the state and the country

with 140 employees and twelve doctors of dentistry on the staff.

"We have provided Medicaid orthodontic dental care since 1984, at a time when few dentists in South Texas were willing to take on this rather unpopular work of providing orthodontic (teeth straightening) as well as general dental care for Medicaid dependent children."

For his efforts, the state targeted him with false charges of "a credible allegation of fraud" based on their interpretation of Obamacare regulations "In 2011 the state went on a witch hunt," the doctor said, adding, "and I received a letter from the Inspector General notifying me that they were placing a payment hold on all our Medicaid orthodontic work. They were obviously trying to ruin me and my dental practice, as this put an extraordinary amount of financial burden on us." Thus began months and years of legal maneuvers, with officials in Austin and elsewhere, but ending in a

Doctor Juan Villarreal of Harlingen Family Dentistry.

Photo By Bill Keltner victory for this humble little David, and a warranted exposure for the giant Goliath."

To learn all the intricate details of this lopsided struggle, and the final victory, you'll need to read the doctor's book exposing how rogue bureaucrats seeking their own glory and power can then use these selfwritten regulations to harm businesses,

innocent citizens and taxpayers, and bringing financial ruin to others with little or no consequences for themselves.

The book is published by TEXAS DENTISTS FOR MEDICAID REFORM. It is now available on line at Amazon and elsewhere. Contact the publisher for further information at info@tdmr.org . MDN

Foreword

By Dr. Tom Orent CEO Gems Publishing, USA, Inc.

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his is the true story of the best and worst of human nature. It’s about the absolute misappropriation of power by a series of bureaucrats running powerful state agencies without concern for the truth nor the path of destruction left in the wake of their self-gratifying rampage.

If this were a novel, you’d likely be tempted to cast it aside as improbable, if not impossible. Unfortunately for the victims, the story you are about to read is true. There are two sets of victims.

On the one hand, you have the dentists who were maligned, and in some cases bankrupted, by the vengeful actions of the power-wielding “officials.”

The other set of victims, numbers over three million strong. Strong only in numbers. Weak in that they are just children.

Children born into poor families. Children whom we are bound to protect. Children whose best health interests became an inconvenient cost to state officials whose twisted sense of mission led them far astray from their sworn oaths of duty.

Far from “protect and serve.” They sought to destroy the very providers of the care desperately needed by the children of the State of Texas.

How is it possible that nobody knew what was going on? Dentists must maintain their license to practice in order to make a living and support themselves and their families. Unfortunately, it’s easy for rogue government officials to make life hard for a dentist.

The threat of loss of license and practice due to conviction on fraud charges (regardless of whether or not those charges have any basis in truth) weighs like a boulder on the chest and in the minds of the accused.

Furthermore, the cost of being accused, the freezing of money already earned but not yet dispersed, can be equally if not more intimidating than the potential court cases and defense of their licenses and good names.

Dentists have been afraid or unable to fight back. Nobody was willing to challenge authority.

Nobody was willing to stand up for the three million plus children and be their voice. Until now.

This is the story of David and Goliath. This is a tale of right and wrong. Dr. Juan D. Villarreal was willing to stand up and fight back at great risk and cost to himself.

Juan chose to fight back for all of those who could or would not. Juan gave voice to the three million plus children. ■

Truth Decay, book written by Dr. Juan D. Villarreal

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• May 2017 •

Valley Baptist-Harlingen to Begin Construction on Pediatric Fast Track Emergency Room Unit

New 12-bed unit to provide emergency treatment for pediatric patients Mega Doctor News

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arlingen, Texas – Valley Baptist Medical Center-Harlingen commemorated impending construction of a new, specialized unit geared toward providing emergency pediatric care for area children during a “groundbreaking” ceremony on Monday, March 13 in the hospital’s Emergency Room.

To commemorate the impending construction of the Pediatric Fast Track Emergency Room Unit, hospital leadership joined Valley Baptist Community Advisory Board members in rolling a variety of pastel paints chosen as part of the décor for the new unit on a wall in the hospital’s Emergency Room.

During the ceremony, Valley Baptist Health System CEO Manny Vela said that the new unit will help Valley Baptist-Harlingen continue its mission of providing safe, high-quality healthcare to the community.

“This ER within an ER will feature 12 dedicated pediatric beds in a pediatric-friendly environment, with features designed for maximum safety and security specifically for children.

Valley Baptist-Harlingen has been a leader in pediatric care in Cameron County. We have the only Pediatric ICU in the county, as well as the only Neonatal

Intensive Care Unit and only Pediatrics Department in Harlingen,” he said.

“We look forward to offering the Pediatric Fast Track in our Emergency Room, which is often the front door of our facility.”

Vela said that the Pediatric Fast Track Unit, which should be complete in approximately three to four months, also helps Valley BaptistHarlingen achieve its goal of making sure local residents do not have to leave their community to receive quality healthcare.

“One of our goals at Valley Baptist-Harlingen and Valley BaptistBrownsville is to be differentiators in regard to the service lines that we offer.

Even so, it goes deeper than that. Our

Valley Baptist Medical Center-Harlingen commemorated impending construction of a new, specialized unit geared toward providing emergency pediatric care for area children during a “groundbreaking” ceremony on Monday, March 13 in the hospital’s Emergency Room. Participating in the event and pictured are: (Front Row, left to right) Bernadette Hernandez, VBMC-Harlingen Director of Emergency Services; Megan Drake, Chief Business Development Officer for Valley Baptist Health System; VBMC-Harlingen Emergency Room Physician Dr. Douglas Miesen; and Catherine Sekula, VBMC-Harlingen Administrative Director of Nursing.

(Back Row, left to right) John Topp, Valley Baptist Community Advisory Board Member; Daniel Listi, VBMC-Harlingen Chief Operating Officer; Col. Glenn Hill, Valley Baptist Community Advisory Board Member; Alan Johnson, Valley Baptist Community Advisory Board Chairman; Manny Vela, Chief Executive Officer for Valley Baptist Health System; Dr. David Sauceda, VBMC-Harlingen Chief of Pediatrics; and Mike Mezmar, Harlingen City Commissioner District 3.

goal is to offer services so that members of our community do not have to go north to receive any treatment whatsoever,” he said.

“We’re chipping away at that in a very deliberate and progressive way, and this is just one more example of how we continue in Cameron County to offer an outstanding level of care to our pediatric community.

The Pediatric Fast Track is a continuation of our commitment to our youngest residents.”

Dr. David Sauceda, Chief of Pediatrics at Valley Baptist-Harlingen, said that providing a safe and separate area for children to receive emergency care demonstrates the hospital’s commitment to area children.

“Our children deserve their own space for emergency care, and we look forward to Continued on page 21

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• May 2017 •

“The Red Ball” – Third

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he THIRD ANNUAL “Red Ball Benefitting Education to Stop Stroke in the RGV,” held on May 6 in Brownsville was a resounding success. Over 300 people joined in the festivities to raise money for stroke education.

Valley Baptist Health System was the Presenting Sponsor for this black-tie (and red dress!)

Red Ball to Fight Stroke 2017 Committee (L-R): Teri Retana, Maureen Rattray, Jennifer Sanchez, Summer Hassan, Sandra Langley, Dr. Ameer Hassan, Emma Leal, Ronda Lewis, Matt Lynch, Vanessa Garcia, and Laura Rocco. Missing from the photo are: Ruthie Ewers, Becky Stirzaker, Maru de la Paz, Rose Timmer, Sarah Garza Guerra, Jesse Perez, Veronica de la Fuente, Dr. Wondwossen Tekle, and Dr. Luis Gaitan. event in support of the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. They were joined by 40 other sponsoring organizations, 20 businesses who donated to the Red Ball Mystery Box Auction, and eight who contributed to the Red Ball Live Auction.

Nicole Hickl, Action 4 Sunrise Anchor on KGBT, served as Master of Ceremonies for the program, which featured the introduction of invited stroke survivor guests, and included presentations by Neurologists Dr. Ameer Hassan and Dr. Luis Gaitan.

Neurologist Dr. Luis Gaitan and Family: Soika Gaitan , Sophia Gaitan, Dr. Maria C. Uribe (Mrs. Luis Gaitan,) Niurka Gaitan, Gabriel Gaitan, and Patricia Gaitan

Neurologists - Stroke Symposium Speakers: Dr. Mohamed Teleb, Dr. Haralabos Zacharatos, Dr. Osman Kozak, Dr. Adnan Qureshi, Dr. Ameer Hassan, Dr. Jefferson Miley, Dr. Mikayel Grigoryan, and Dr. Steve Cordina.

Leadership : Dr. Ameer Hassan and Summer Jemeza Hassan, Amy Vela and Valley Baptist CEO Manny Vela

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• May 2017 •

Annual Celebration Dr. Ameer E. Hassan, DO, FAHA, FSVIN, Head of the Neuroscience Department, Director of Endovascular Surgical Neuroradiology and Director of Clinical Neuroscience Research at Valley Baptist Medical Center-Harlingen, who serves on the Red Ball planning committee, said that while strides have been made in stroke education in the Rio Grande Valley, there is still more work to be done to educate the community.

“What we’ve done in the Valley, in terms of increasing our IVtpA numbers from 3 percent to 13 percent in a matter of a few years, and increasing the treatment, whether endovascular or IV-tpA, from 3 percent of patients to 25 percent, is amazing,”

he said.

“That’s happened because we’ve worked well with the community.

We’ve focused on educating the community and first responders as well as local EMS and we need to continue our efforts.”

The Red Ball Committee says mark your calendars for the Fourth Annual Red Ball – scheduled for Saturday, May 5, 2018 ■ Red Ball Dessert Table, Donated by Summer Hassan and Dr. Ameer Hassan

Summer Jemeza Hassan and Endovascular Neurologist Dr. Ameer Hassan

Endovascular Neurologist Dr. Wondwossen Tekle and Fasika Tekle

Neurology and ER team, Valley Baptist Medical Center-Brownsville (L-R): Dr. Luis Gaitan, Dr. Mario Cerdan, Rogelio Rene Ortiz, Dr. Kazim Hussain, Luis Hernandez, Jesse Perez, and Dr. Steve Cordina.

The Red Ball

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• May 2017 •

Advanced Interventional Radiology Procedures in Weslaco Can Help Save Patients from Foot Amputations Dr. Michael DeCandia performing procedures to open blocked arteries in legs; benefitting diabetes, other patients Mega Doctor News

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eslaco – Advanced interventional radiology procedures which are being performed at Knapp Medical Center in Weslaco can help restore blood flow to the legs and feet of diabetics and other Valley patients – which can save them from having to have their foot or toes potentially amputated in some cases.

Dr. Michael DeCandia, an Interventional Radiology physician at Knapp, is a specialist in procedures to open the peripheral arteries which supply blood and oxygen to the feet. If the blood flow to these arteries become blocked by fatty substances (plaque, cholesterol, etc.), the toes may become injured and diseased to the point that they cannot be saved.

Tragic cases in which a person has to have a foot or toe amputated can make the patient become unable to work or perform other functions at a relatively-young age -in many cases because of complications of diabetes, which is widespread in the Valley.

“Peripheral artery disease exists in most people in their 60s and much earlier in those with diabetes,” Dr. DeCandia said.

“Here at Knapp Medical Center, we utilize state-of-the-art angioplasty equipment, atherectomy devices, and stenting as needed to open the blood vessels in the legs.”

Dr. Michael DeCandia Atherectomy is considered a minimally-invasive option to cut away plaque which has built up inside the walls of a blood vessel. The patient receives local anesthesia, and then a catheter or tube (which resembles a thin wire but is hollow) is inserted into the artery in the leg. A tiny blade at the end of the catheter is used to remove the fatty material causing the blockage, from inside the blood vessel.

In other cases, Dr. DeCandia uses balloons and special catheters to “recanalize long-term occluded (blood) vessels.”

Dr. DeCandia has nearly 20 years of experience performing these specialized “lower-extremity angiogram

re-vascularization” procedures with Valley patients.

Steven Garcia, Director of Imaging Services for Knapp Medical Center, said when it comes to peripheral arteries such as those in the legs, interventional radiologists like Dr. DeCandia work to open the blood vessel as a cardiologist would.

“In the world of physician specialists, Dr. DeCandia is basically an ‘internal plumber’ … he goes into the arteries to try to unplug them,” added Orlando Lopez, an Imaging Services Technologist who assists Dr. DeCandia with many of his procedures in the Interventional Radiology (IR) Lab at Knapp.

Angiograms (X-ray of the arteries and veins) are performed in the speciallyequipped, all-digital lab to see what the issues are which may be impacting a patient’s circulation, such as blockages, narrowing in a blood vessel and other problems in the blood vessels.

The various procedures, which are performed through the groin in either leg, represent less-invasive options to surgery and other techniques, in many cases.

In addition to performing the procedures to unclog arteries, Dr. DeCandia is also the specialist in the Valley when it comes to de-clogging “conduits” in dialysis patients. These are “dialysis arterial venous shunts” which were previously inserted in a patient’s arm, in order to provide access

to their blood vessels during dialysis treatments.

However, in some patients this connection between the vein and artery becomes plugged up or narrowed, which can make it more difficult for the patient to receive their dialysis treatments. In these cases, Dr. DeCandia uses X-rays to visualize the problem -- and then may inflate a balloon and place a stent in the patient’s vein, to restore blood flow in the area of the shunt connection.

Dialysis patients from all over the Valley come to Weslaco for this specialized procedure with Dr. DeCandia at Knapp Medical Center. In many cases, the patient is able to resume their normal activities later the same day. In fact, with most of the procedures that Dr. DeCandia performs, the patient is in-and-out of the hospital within a day.

“We try to be very efficient with our care,” Dr. DeCandia said. “We perform procedures with a short recovery time.”

In addition to Dr. DeCandia, radiologists at Knapp Medical Center include Dr. Allan Kapilivsky, MD (who is one of only a few board-certified nuclear radiologists in the Valley) and Dr. Carlos Maldonado, DO. For more information on Imaging and Radiology Services at Knapp, please call 956-969-5461 or visit www.KnappMed.org/Services/ImagingServices.aspx. MDN

For a Free and Confidential Assessment 24 Hours a Day, 7 Days a Week Call:

956-365-2600

SPECIALIZING IN ADULT, GERIATRIC AND ADOLESCENT INPATIENT TREATMENT

13

• May 2017 •

5K Walk / Run to be held in Weslaco May 20 Mega Doctor News New event to promote awareness of stroke or “brain attacks”

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eslaco – A 5K Walk / Run which will be held in Weslaco on Saturday morning, May 20 will promote awareness of the importance of acting quickly and calling 911 when a stroke or “brain attack” occurs.

This new event for the MidValley will begin at 7:30 a.m. on May 20, starting at Knapp Medical Center’s south parking lot (1401 E. 8th Street in Weslaco).

In addition to Knapp, the “BEFAST” 5K is being sponsored by Weslaco Regional Rehabilitation Hospital, the Weslaco Stroke Support Group, Retama Manor Nursing Center, Mid Valley Nursing & Rehabilitation, Valley Grande Manor, and Weslaco Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

“It is important that we bring focus on preventing strokes and on educating our community on the importance of stroke awareness,” said Elsa Quintero, Director of Marketing & Business Development for Weslaco Regional Rehabilitation Hospital. “We invite you to join the Weslaco Stroke Support Group for this exciting event, the Stroke Awareness Run / Walk on May 20th -- and help us reduce the effects of

A committee of local healthcare professionals has been meeting to plan a new event for the Mid-Valley, a 5K Walk / Run to promote awareness of the importance of acting quickly when a person suffers symptoms of a stroke. Committee members include Alma Nunez of Retama Manor Nursing Center in Weslaco; Mary Pina of Valley Grande Manor Nursing & Rehabilitation Center; Elsa Quintero and Erika Maciel of Weslaco Regional Rehabilitation Hospital; Joe Longoria of Valley Grande Manor; Pat Wagman of Knapp Medical Center; Jeffrey Burton of Weslaco Nursing and Rehabilitation Center; Captain Gustavo Ramirez of the Weslaco Fire / EMS Department; and Carlos Bello of Mid Valley Nursing & Rehabilitation in Mercedes. stroke on our community!”

Pat Wagman, RN, Stroke Coordinator for Knapp Medical Center, emphasized the importance of knowing the warning signs of stroke and calling 911 immediately when a loved one or

another person has symptoms of ‘brain attacks’.

“It’s important to act without delay when a stroke occurs,” Mr. Wagman added, noting the following actions to take using the “BE-FAST” acronym:

“B” is for BALANCE: Look at the person … is he or she suddenly having trouble with walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination?

“E” is for EYES: Does the person have sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes?

“F” is for FACE: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

“A” is for ARMS: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

“S” is for SPEECH: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?

“T” is for TIME: If you observe any of these signs, call 9-1-1 immediately. Also note the time that symptoms of stroke first started; that will be important information to give to the medical professionals who treat the stroke victim.

In the Mid-Valley, Knapp Medical Center is certified as an Advanced Primary Stroke Center by the Joint Commission, the national accrediting organization for healthcare organizations, and designated as a Primary (Level II) Stroke Facility by the Texas Department of State Health Services.

In addition to the warning signs listed above, yet another symptom of stroke could be a sudden severe headache with no known cause.

Continued on page 14

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14

• May 2017 •

Help Preserve McAllen’s Heritage With 2017 "Chuckwagon Dinner"

Mega Doctor News The Dinner for two is a Great Deal

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he McAllen Heritage Center Board of Directors invite you to support our annual “Chuckwagon Dinner” fundraiser. McAllen Heritage Center is very pleased to announce that the event is once again partnering

with Tony Roma’s of McAllen to bring you an evening of your choice (June 1 through September 30, 2017, excluding Father’s Day) to enjoy a delicious steak dinner with all the trimmings for

HOPE & HELP ARE HERE.

two and a bottle of house wine for only $50.00 per ticket. All funds raised will benefit the McAllen Heritage Center whose mission is to preserve and educate about McAllen's history and culture.

Since 2009, Valley Baptist Behavioral Health Services has been helping our patients live a happier, healthier life through our integrated treatment approach.

We have fulltime, board-certified physicians and compassionate teams dedicated in offering mental and behavioral care to adults and their families.

Our caring environment provides professional psychiatric services that focus on each patient’s needs to provide adequate resources to return to their life, healthy and renewed.

The Chuckwagon Dinner began in 2006 in conjunction with the PalmFest Folklife Celebration. The event was originally held at the festival and then moved to the museum located in downtown McAllen where it Pictured: Elva M. Cerda - MHC Managing quickly outgrew Director and Rick Guerra the venue. In Tony Roma's promoting the 2017 event.

2014 McAllen Heritage Center partnered with Tony Roma’s of McAllen to hold the dinner our McAllen history exhibits and at their South 10th restaurant also offers ongoing art exhibits at location during a four-month the Artists Corner which is reserved redemption period. This for talented local artists. Regular partnership has helped make the exhibit openings and receptions are event even more successful for held along with children’s activities, the museum because supporters concerts and other events. Check our are able to choose a convenient museum calendar which is located on day to have this great dinner our website: on our Facebook page). with friends or family! For more information about McAllen Heritage Center or to purchase event McAllen Heritage Center tickets, call us at 956-687-1904 or call is grateful to our many Elva Cerda at 956-668-3049, Nedra friends and supporters of the Kinerk at 956-330-2071, Spud Brown Chuckwagon Dinner and other at 956-648-7877, Martha Hinojosa fundraisers throughout the at 956-971-9000, Danny Boultinghouse years which have helped us at 956-630-9494 or John M. Kreidler continue to fulfill our mission. at 956-686-0234. MDN The museum has expanded Continued from page 13

5K Walk/ Run to be ...

For more information about our inpatient center and Intensive Outpatient Programs, visit ValleyBaptist.net or call (866) 794-2229.

Strokes are a leading cause of long-term disability and the fifth leading cause of death in the United States.

More than 58% of Americans don’t know if they are at risk for stroke and one in three Americans don’t know what to look for as a warning sign or symptom of a stroke.

The “BE-FAST 5K” awareness run / walk in Weslaco will feature a competitive and non-competitive registration package, with both packages including a Performance Dry Fit T-Shirt and customized participation medal.

The competitive registration also

includes a timing shoe tag. Trophies will be awarded to the top three finishers in each racing division.

Children 12 and under can participate in the walk / run for free, but must be registered participants in order to receive a shirt and participation medal.

For those who would like to attend the event, but not participate in the walk / run, there is also an option to purchase a “BE STROKE AWARE” T-Shirt only. However, please register by this Friday, May 5 if you wish to order a T-shirt.

For more information on the “BE-FAST” 5K in Weslaco, please call 956-655-7006. Registration for the run / walk is available online at: https:// EnduranceSplits.webconnex.com/ WeslacoBe-Fast5KBeStrokeAware.

MDN

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• May 2017 •

The Get Healthy Mega Clinic Proudly Welcomes the City of Pharr as Their Platinum Sponsor.

Sponsors needed to expand healthcare services

Mega Doctor News

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he Annual Get Healthy Mega Clinic that will be taking place at the Boggus Ford Events Center in Pharr on June 23rd-25th. This event is being hosted by the Seventh Day Adventist churches of the Rio Grande Valley, in partnership with Dr. Dona Cooper Dockery and her network of wellness organizations as well as the Adventist Medical Evangelistic Network (AMEN).

This faith-based healthcare initiative offers Free Medical, The Get Healthy Mega Clinic proudly welcomes the City of Pharr Dental and Vision Care to the as its Platinum Sponsor. Pictured left to right: Denise Phillips, Consultant, Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez, Mayor of Pharr, uninsured, under-insured and Marketing the under-served members of the Dr. Dona Cooper Dockery, Medical Director, Pastor Sebastian Lopez from the Pharr Spanish Seventh Day Adventist church in Pharr. (Iglesia Adventista Hispana de Pharr) community.

Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez, along with the City Commissioners citizens of this region. will be based on the number of healthcare of Pharr, have graciously elected to In addition, they said, that the professionals who volunteer to offer their waive the fees associated with the use certificate of appreciation was presented services to the community. The clinic of the Boggus Ford Events Center. The in recognition of their dedicated service will have general medical staff available organizers told Mega Doctor News that and outstanding contribution to the Get for non-emergency examinations, they want to express gratitude to Mr. Healthy Mega Clinic. treatment and questions.

Eleazar Guajardo, Mr. Roberto “Bobby” Clinical services will be Dental care will include Carrillo, Mr. Ramiro Caballero, Mr. provided Free of Charge and this event is Dental x-rays, cleanings, fillings and Daniel Chavez, Mr. Ricardo Medina open to the public. Patients will be served extractions. Vision care includes eye and Mr. Mario Bracamontes for their on a ‘First Come, First Served Basis’ until examinations, prescriptions of eyeglasses visionary leadership and commitment maximum capacity is reached. According and eyeglasses. to improving the quality of life for the to Dr. Cooper, the maximum capacity Continued on page 18

956-682-8500 Office 956-451-4585 Sales 1-888-254-3341 eFax 614 S. 12th Street McAllen, TX 78501 www.MegaDoctorNews.com

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No portion of this newspaper may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent from Mega Doctor News Proudly Made and Printed in the USA. We are committed to protecting the environment; our newspaper is printed on recycled newsprint with soy-based inks. MDN

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Mon thru Thurs: 8 am - 10 pm Fri: 8 am - 5 pm Sat: 8 am - 12 pm

Dr. Coimbra received training in several major medical areas: • Chronic conditions, such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease, arthritis, anxiety/depression, endocrine (thyroid) disorders, high cholesterol, and hypertension.

• Urgent care medicine • Mental and behavioral health • Immunizations • Immigration physicals

• Minor surgical procedures • Bone and joint • Eye, ear, nose and throat • Labs In-House • Urinary system • Well-woman care/GYN • Reproductive counseling • Family planning • Cosmetic/Juvederm/Botox • All kinds of physicals

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• May 2017 •

• May 2017 •

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18

• May 2017 •

Valley Baptist-Harlingen Inpatient Rehabilitation Services Help Patients Regain Sense of Well-Being, Independence

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Expansion of rehabilitation services at Valley Baptist-Harlingen underway, set for completion in August

arlingen – An Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit at Valley Baptist Medical CenterHarlingen is benefitting patients who are recovering after a stroke, joint replacement surgery, hip fracture, heart surgery, brain injury, or amputation; as well as those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, spinal cord injuries, Parkinson’s Disease, and other conditions.

The Rehabilitation Unit focuses on intensive therapy and restorative care, with the goal being to increase patients' level of functioning before they return home, said Rosie Aguilar, RN, BSN, Program Director for the rehab unit.

On the 18-bed unit -- which features allprivate rooms and a therapy gym – patients are assisted by an inter-disciplinary team which includes physicians, physical and occupational therapists, speech\language pathologists, specially-trained nurses, social workers, and other specialists as needed.

"This unit is designed for patients who need intensive rehabilitation therapy – at least three hours a day of physical, occupational and/or speech therapy," Aguilar said. “We are committed to helping our patients regain their sense of well-being and independence and to reach their highest level of functioning.

Continued from page 15 The Get Healthy Mega...

The Get Healthy Mega Clinic 2016, was an unprecedented, groundbreaking healthcare initiative which required extensive collaboration between a wide range of healthcare organizations, agencies, institutions, business professionals and caring individuals. More than 540 volunteers helped to create a unique clinical environment in which more than 1,400 patients received multiple healthcare services.

Our patients are treated by a group of highly-trained professionals who work as a team to assist them in preparing to return to a normal life.”

A renovation project is currently underway to expand and revamp the Rehabilitation Unit. The project, which is slated for completion in August, will increase the total number of beds to 22 and upgrade other aspects of the unit, including the purchase of new rehabilitation equipment, as well as renovating and nearly doubling the size of the existing therapy gym.

“We are very excited about this project, because it will allow us to care for more patients than ever before,” Aguilar said.

Care of patients in the Valley Baptist Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit is coordinated by a physiatrist, a physician who specializes in rehabilitation and physical medicine, with the physiatrist coordinating care with the patient’s personal physician, who may continue to follow the patient’s progress. Dr. Rachel Martin, DO, Physiatrist, serves as Medical Director of the Valley Baptist Inpatient Rehab Unit.

Physicians are assisted by specially-trained rehabilitation nurses

As part of her physical therapy at Valley Baptist-Harlingen, Inpatient Rehabilitation patient Lola Jeanette Porell (left) takes regular walks outside with her physical therapist, Kirstin Sippel.

The Hidalgo County Health Department Mobile Unit provided immunizations to both adults and children. Doctors Hospital at Renaissance provided laboratory testing for almost 500 patients. More than 350 prescription eyeglasses were provided for patients who requested eye examinations.

In addition to primary services (Medical, Dental and Vision) many auxiliary services will be available such as Lab Analysis, X-rays, Immunizations, Physical Therapy/Massage, Minor Surgical procedures, Medication, Lifestyle counseling, free clothing and

shoes, free haircuts and much more.

The Get Healthy Mega Clinic creates a platform of uncommon humanitarian service at the intersection of tremendous need and outstanding generosity.

“We connect the hands and hearts of a hurting community with those who are willing to help.” Dr. Cooper added, “We want to roll out the proverbial “red carpet” and provide quality services to a segment of our society who often feels abandoned, neglected and forgotten.

We hope to truly share God’s love with each person who gives us the honor of

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who provide patients with aroundthe-clock care and support. Patients undergoing rehabilitation participate in three hours of treatment specific to their healthcare needs daily, five days a week.

“Our nurses help explain what is happening to the patients, so they know what to expect when it comes to their treatments, progress, and potential challenges,” Aguilar said. “The nurses are available to the patient 24 hours a day – and of course we have the onsite back-up of the largest hospital in Cameron County, for patients with emergency needs.”

Other key members of the rehab team include physical therapists, who evaluate and educate patients on improving their mobility through the use of assistive devices such as a walker, cane, or wheelchair. Physical therapists also work with the patient on improving their overall strength, balance, and endurance through therapeutic exercises.

In addition, occupational therapists are available to evaluate and assist patients with maximizing their independence with self-care skills such as eating, dressing, and bathing, Continued on page 19 serving them.” One volunteer stated, “I volunteer at all kinds of events, but I’ve never seen this before. I’ve never seen such a deep and profound demonstration of God’s love to the community as I have with the Mega Clinic.”

The Get Healthy Mega Clinic has been appropriately named, due to its focus on getting healthy. On Saturday, June 24th our entire schedule will be dedicated to conducting health educational seminars and providing workshops for promoting healthy lifestyles.

Studies show that the Valley ranks among the highest in rates of diabetes and other lifestyle-driven diseases in the nation. It is estimated that 1 out of every 4 residents is either diabetic or pre-diabetic, with many undiagnosed cases.

Sponsorships and Vendor booths are available for your support of this worthy cause. We invite businesses and organizations who share our vision to partner with us in serving our community. The organizer’s goal is to be able to reach and serve 2,000 – 3,000 patients with FREE healthcare services.

For general information, please feel free to check out our website at www.gethealthymegaclinic.com or call our office at 956-627-3106. For sponsorship information, please contact Denise Phillips at 956-240-3463 or email: denphil01@yahoo.com. MDN

19

• May 2017 •

Dr. John H. Krouse named New Dean of the School of Medicine

By Jennifer L. Berghom Mega Doctor News

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AY-2017— The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley has named Dr. John H. Krouse as its new vice president for Medical Affairs and dean of the School of Medicine.

Krouse comes to the Valley from Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he serves as the senior associate dean for clinical affairs; president of Temple University Physicians; professor and chairman of the Department of Otolaryngology— Head and Neck Surgery; and director of the Head and Neck Institute at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine. He also served as associate dean for Graduate Medical Education from 2012 to 2015.

“Dr. Krouse has extensive experience in many key areas that will play an important role in moving the UTRGV School of Medicine forward,” said UTRGV President Guy Bailey.

“Temple has traditionally been ranked as one of the top research-oriented medical schools in the nation, so to attract someone of Dr. Krouse’s caliber is a credit to the faculty, staff and students we already have in place.”

Krouse, who begins his new role July 1, said he looks forward to joining the UTRGV School of Medicine

and working in collaboration with its partner health care institutions and other stakeholders in the community.

“This position reflects a unique opportunity to shape the careers of a generation of young physicians and to build healthcare programs that improve the access to and quality of care in the Valley,” he said. “It is uncommon that new medical schools are opened, and to play a role in the development of this new college is a personal and professional honor and privilege. I recognize that the Valley has worked hard over the last 70 years to bring our School of Medicine into existence, and I pledge to work closely with all of the Valley’s citizens to create a center of excellence that will provide exceptional clinical, educational, and research activities in support of our strong and diverse community.”

Bailey also announced that interim dean Dr. Steve Lieberman and Dr. Elizabeth Fehsenfeld will stay with the School of Medicine for several months to assist Krouse in a seamless transition and to contribute to LCME accreditation activities.

“This is an exciting time for UTRGV and our School of Medicine, and I’d like to thank the search committee for conducting an excellent hiring process,” Bailey said. “We are also grateful to Elizabeth and Steve for their service during the interim and for their ongoing

Dr. John H. Krouse dedication to the School of Medicine.”

UTRGV began its search for a permanent dean for the School of Medicine last fall, forming a committee composed of representatives from the university, hospital partners and the community-at-large.

Dr. Kenneth Shine, consultant to the president of UTRGV, and Dr. Michael Lehker, dean of the UTRGV College of Health Affairs, co-chaired the committee.

“An accomplished leader and administrator, Dr. Krouse has

Zika experts sit on panel with Gov. Greg Abbott in Brownsville

By Vicky Brito

Dr. John Hellerstedt, Texas Department of State Health ROWNSVILLE, Services commissioner.

TEXAS – MAY 5, “We look forward to 2017 – Two biology increasing collaborations faculty members from The through the UTRGV University of Texas Rio Grande School of Medicine and our Valley contributed their expertise College of Health Affairs at as panelists on a Zika prevention fighting Zika,” Bailey said. roundtable organized by Texas “We’re on the frontline in Governor Greg Abbott’s office the Zika fight here in deep in preparation for the height of South Texas. I am very mosquito season in the state. proud that we have two Dr. Christopher Vitek, respected experts from our associate professor of medical UTRGV faculty – Dr. Vitek entomology, and Dr. John and Dr. Thomas – who have Thomas, assistant professor quite a lot of experience of virology, participated in the May 5 event along with Abbott, Texas Governor Greg Abbott hosted a Zika prevention with vector-borne diseases, community leaders and health roundtable, in conjunction with the Texas Department of State including the administration officials from Cameron and Health Services, at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley of a CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Hidalgo Counties.

Brownsville Campus on Friday, May 5. Organized by the Prevention) grant on Zika.”

Vitek and Thomas currently governor’s office, the roundtable was held in preparation for The governor’s office participate in a multi-institutional the height of mosquito season in the state. Pictured with Abbott is working toward a public consortium, the Western Gulf is UTRGV President Guy Bailey. (Utrgv Photo By David Pike) relations campaign to better Center for Excellence for Vectorinform the public of the Borne Diseases, which focuses who would think something as small and dangers of Zika. on Zika research and monitoring. meaningless as a mosquito could pose such “I think it is something that we can Abbott said with the summer season great danger? Everyone here knows the all agree upon, that it is something that we around the corner, the rise of the mosquito danger it poses.” need to tackle as a quickly as possible to population is a concern.

The event, held at the PlainsCapital ensure that we can minimize, reduce, if “This is a time when all of us at Bank El Grán Salon on the UTRGV the nation, state, county and local level Brownsville Campus, also featured Dr. Guy not eliminate, the harm and danger posed can come together and work together to Bailey, UTRGV president; Dr. Havidán to citizens, especially in the Rio Grande have a profound impact on making our Rodríguez, UTRGV provost and executive Valley area, but as well as across the state communities safer,” Abbott said. “And vice president for Academic Affairs; and of Texas,” Abbott said. MDN

B

demonstrated extraordinary skills in developing educational and clinical programs, recruiting faculty, leading research efforts and in commitment to community,” Shine said. “He is a proverbial ‘quadruple threat.’”

Krouse graduated from Carnegie-Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and received his Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Rochester, New York. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts. He received a Master of Business Administration from the Fox School of Business at Temple University in 2014.

He completed his internship in surgery at Beth Israel Hospital and his residency training in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary/Harvard Medical School in Boston. He is board certified in otolaryngology.

Dr. Havidán Rodríguez, UTRGV’s provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs, also hailed Krouse’s hiring.

“Dr. Krouse’s proven leadership will serve UTRGV and the School of Medicine well in continuing to ensure student success and secure the medical school as a leader in innovative education for our medical students,” Rodríguez said.

MDN Continued from page 18

Valley Baptist-Harlingen ...

as well as basic home management skills so patients are prepared to return home safely. Occupational therapists also address limitations patients may have with overall arm and hand strength, coordination, and endurance.

For patients needing evaluation and treatment for their ability to communicate, problem solve, and reason, speech therapists are available at the Valley Baptist Rehab Unit. Speech therapists also help address problems patients may have with swallowing.

Aguilar said that helping patients regain their independence and transition from the hospital setting back into their normal lives is a process that is incredibly rewarding for her staff.

“Our patients want to get back to their daily routine, and helping them do that is a gift,” she said. “We really get to know our patients and bond with them. When a patient leaves, we give them a certificate and it’s almost like graduation. We’re all clapping and hugging and crying because it is so emotional for us.”

Valley Baptist also offers outpatient rehabilitation in a separate building, the Round Outpatient Rehabilitation Pavilion, across the street from the Emergency Room.

For more information on rehabilitation services, please consult your physician; call (956) 389-1550 and visit www.ValleyBaptist.net/medicalservices/rehabilitation. MDN

20

• May 2017 •

New Treatment Option available at Valley Baptist-Brownsville for Patients Suffering from Peripheral Artery Disease Mega Doctor News

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ROWNSVILLE – There is now new treatment available at Valley Baptist Medical CenterBrownsville for a select number of patients suffering from narrowing or clogged arteries in the legs caused by peripheral artery disease, in which a cardiologist will access a blockage via a blood vessel in the foot rather than a vessel in the groin.

Peripheral artery disease is described by the American Heart Association as most commonly the narrowing of the arteries in the legs caused by the buildup of plaque along the arterial walls. That buildup can eventually lead to a complete blockage, which in turn causes loss of circulation to the extremities. If left untreated, amputation of the affected extremity is often the result.

Risk factors for peripheral artery disease include smoking, high cholesterol and blood pressure, and diabetes.

Because diabetes is so prevalent in the Rio Grande Valley, Dr. Fadi Alfayoumi, Medical Director of Cardiology at Valley Baptist Medical Center-Brownsville, said many of his patients suffer from some form of peripheral artery disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 8.5 million people in the United States have PAD, including 12-to-20 percent of individuals older than age 60.

For most of those patients, the common course of treatment is for a cardiologist to perform a procedure in which a catheter is

certain issues we notice during imaging that tell us that our likelihood of success in using that method will be low.”

Alfayoumi encountered one such patient in February, leading to the first procedure at Valley Baptist Medical CenterBrownsville through which a blockage in the leg was accessed via an artery in the foot.

Alfayoumi went on to describe the procedure, which was performed in the Cardiac Catheterization Lab at Valley Baptist-Brownsville.

“We accessed the blood vessel called the posterior tibial artery just above the ankle. Once we entered through that vessel, Dr. Fadi Alfayoumi, Medical Director we used specific equipment to facilitate the of Cardiology at Valley Baptist Medical passing of the wires to the blockage and Center-Brownsville we opened it,” he said.

While this new method is not an threaded through a vessel in the groin to the option for all patients suffering from blockage site in the leg. Once the blockage peripheral artery disease, Alfayoumi is reached, a small balloon is inflated, said it does provide an alternative for a pushing the plaque against the walls of the artery to restore blood flow. In some cases, select number of patients who would not a stent may be utilized to keep the artery experience positive outcomes through the traditional procedure of gaining access to open following the procedure.

In a few cases, however, the anatomy blockages via vessels in the groin.

“In select cases when the patient of a patient or the location of the blockage has an advanced below the knee disease, will prevent cardiologists from accessing the surgical outcomes may be good the site from the groin. immediately, but long term outcomes were “The conventional way of performing the procedure is by accessing the area problematic,” he said. “In a few cases the through the groin and traveling down the patient may come back in three months leg and following the path of the blood with the same problem, and now we’re stream,” Alfayoumi said. “But occasionally back at the same point.”

In addition to providing additional the anatomy is not favorable and we have

alternatives to patients suffering from peripheral artery disease, complications associated with accessing blockages “from below” rather than via vessels in the groin can be reduced. Patients undergoing procedures that include a physician gaining access via vessels in the groin will often lay down from four-to-six-hours during recovery as they are monitored closely for post-procedure bleeding. When access is gained to the blocked area from below, a patient can begin moving in about an hour and may be able to go home shortly thereafter. The procedure itself takes approximately 20 minutes.

“This is going to create hope for select patients, and this is so exciting for me as a physician,” Alfayoumi said. “We’re looking forward to helping the patients that we may have been unable to help in the past and giving them an alternative solution to their serious health issues.”

In addition to this procedure, Valley Baptist Health System offers comprehensive heart care from diagnosis to rehabilitation.

Cardiovascular specialists at Valley Baptist can diagnose heart conditions through a variety of procedures including: Cardiac ultrasound, cardiac and vascular screening, cardiac stress testing, electrocardiogram (EKG) testing, and vascular ultrasound.

Once a patient’s condition has been diagnosed, cardiovascular specialists can choose the appropriate course of care ranging from utilization of Valley Baptists cardiac catheterization labs to open heart surgery. MDN

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• May 2017 •

Doctors Hospital at Renaissance Chief Nursing Officer given UTRGV Distinguished Alumni Award Mega Doctor News

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dinburg, TX— Doctors Hospital at Renaissance Health System (DHR) is proud to announce that Norma Teran, DNP, MBA, RN has been selected to receive the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) Distinguished Alumni Award. Dr. Teran serves as the Chief Nursing Officer at DHR, where she leads a nursing workforce of over 1,200 nurses.

The Distinguished Alumni Award is the highest honor UTRGV alumni can receive. Recipients are graduates of UTRGV, or its legacy institutions, and are chosen based on career accomplishments commitment to community service, and demonstrated service and support to UTRGV. “We are proud of Dr. Teran for being recognized with this notable award,” states Marissa Castañeda, Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer at Doctors Hospital at Renaissance. “Our health system is very honored to have Norma as the driving force behind our nursing staff and the incredible care they provide to our patients.”

Dr. Teran immigrated to the United States of America from Nuevo Progreso, Tamaulipas, Mexico with her parents in the early 1970’s. After graduating from Edcouch-Elsa High School, she obtained an associate degree in nursing from Pan American University.

She completed her bachelor’s degree and Master of Business Administration degree at the University of Texas Pan American. Dr. Teran received her Continued from page 9

Valley Baptist- Harlingen ...

serving the community,” he said.

Dr. Douglas Miesen, an Emergency Medicine physician on the Valley Baptist-Harlingen medical staff, told those in attendance that efforts such as the Pediatric Fast Track Emergency Room Unit show a continued upgrade of healthcare services at Valley BaptistHarlingen.

“The idea of having a separate area for pediatric patients is a great idea, and I am really impressed by it,” he said.

“I think it is great that (Valley Baptist is) going to have an environment that is more inviting for pediatric patients that is separate from the general ER population. (Valley Baptist-Harlingen) is communicating to the community that (it) is providing a great service.”

According to U.S. Census Bureau reports from 2015, more than 31 percent of the population in Cameron County was 18 and younger than 18 years old. Caring for such a large portion

Dr. Leo Lopez III Wins National Honor Mega Doctor News areas, he founded a non-

profit organization aimed at identifying, intervening, and n the school of measuring health disparities medicine and in underserved communities. residency, there are Leo is also passionate many distinguished dedicated about story telling. In the past, young professionals. Mega he's served as an investigative Doctor News has met many journalist, covering health of them, but one stands disparities in the Rio Grande out. He is Dr. Leo Lopez Valley and Guatemala. As III of Rio Grande City the Chief Executive Officer that was recently named for El Renovatio Films LLC, 2017 National Hispanic he's directed and produced Resident of the Year by the documentary films on Dr. Leo Lopez III National Hispanic Medical location in the Middle East, Association in Washington D.C. (NHMA) Japan, and Texas.

This award recognizes Residents He's also delivered two TEDxTalks who have contributed to the health of on topics spanning access to healthcare the Hispanic population. NHMA, is an to perception amongst communities organization dedicated to empowering in conflict. He was recognized for his Hispanic physicians to be leaders who leadership in health policy as a Leadership will help eliminate health disparities and Scholar with the Texas Academy of Family improve the health of Hispanics.

Physicians.

Dr. Lopez is a Senior resident Further, Dr. Lopez serves on the board physician with Christus Santa Rosa Family of directors for the non-profit organization Medicine Residency Program in San “Texas Doctors for Social Responsibility”, Antonio, Texas. At age 28, Dr. Lopez has where he advocates for access to healthcare Norma Teran, DNP, MBA, RN Pictured below: Norma Teran, DNP, established himself as a thought leader in for low income families. Over the past six MBA, RN, Chief Nursing at Doctors his generation. “My hope is to make the years, Dr. Lopez has organized and served Hospital at Renaissance and recipient word physician synonymous with servant,” in global health operations in Central America and southern Mexico. His work of the University of Texas Rio Grande he told Mega Doctor News.

Outside of his clinical duties he on ethical considerations for short term Valley Distinguished Alumni Award. serves as a volunteer physician and delivery of care was recently recognized Doctorate in Nursing Practice from clinical Advisor for Corazon Clinic, a by the World Congress for Clinical Safety Texas Tech University Health Sciences in free clinic open for homeless patients in in Rome. Lopez will travel to Italy to Lubbock, TX. downtown San Antonio. With the intent of share his research and address the World Dr. Norma Teran has more than improving population health in vulnerable Congress this fall of 2017. MDN 28 years of healthcare experience. In her role as Chief Nursing Officer at DHR, she focuses on the Institute of Healthcare Improvement’s “quadruple aim”: better patient outcomes, lower healthcare costs, improved patient experience, and healthcare provider wellness. Dr. Teran is a compassionate care provider, imparting nursing expertise on the clinical staff that she leads. MDN of the community is what makes the Pediatric Fast Track project so critical to providing quality healthcare, said Alan Johnson, Valley Baptist Community Advisory Board Chairman.

“This is something that has been needed for a long, long time,” he said. “We all know that we have a very young population here in the Valley, and that’s all the more reason to open this unit. This is something that we need to take care of the young people in our community.”

Once complete, the Pediatric Fast Track Emergency Room Unit will add to the comprehensive pediatric care offered at Valley Baptist-Harlingen. In addition to offering the only Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Harlingen, Valley Baptist-Harlingen also offers highquality healthcare at the Matt & Patty Gorges Children’s Center. The center, which is filled with colorful artwork and bright décor to help raise children’s spirits during their stay, also includes a 14-bed Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.

MDN

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Nearly 4,000 Local Student Athletes Went Through Physicals Exams

dinburg, TX— Doctors Hospital at Renaissance Health System (DHR) partnered with PSJA Independent School District (PSJA ISD) and Edinburg Consolidated Independent School (ECISD) provided physicals to middle school and high school student athletes.

This activity took place during the month of April and the first week of May, physicians provided physicals to nearly 4,000 local student athletes. The districts provided transportation for the athletes to the clinic, reducing the travel and time burden on parents. The goal of providing sports physicals in one location is to make it more convenient and cost effective for families.

“The collaboration between DHRH, UTRGV, ECISD, and PSJA ISD provides not only an opportunity to meet the needs of our community, but also to test emergency plans for providing mass care,” states Sherri Abendroth, Emergency Management Coordinator at DHR. “Our partnerships are strengthened through these types of programs and ensure that if it becomes necessary, capabilities and resources are more than adequate for response to and recovery from incidents that may impact our region.”

Sports physicals, or preparticipation exams (PPE), help determine whether or not it’s safe for a student to participate in a sport or physical activity. Students were evaluated to determine if it is safe for them to participate in The exams help identify life-threatening school athletics.

Student athletes waiting for their turn for a physical examination, gladly posed for Mega Doctor News camera. Photo by Roberto Hugo Gonzalez

medical conditions, such as certain heart conditions, or other disorders that can be exacerbated by physical activity, such as lung disease, high blood pressure, or eating disorders. Sports physicals should be conducted once per year before the athletic season begins.

DHR’s two School Based Health Centers serve the PSJA ISD and Edinburg CISD communities. The clinics are strategically located within the school district to allow for timely access to a healthcare provider that can diagnose and treat most minor health conditions.

The clinics provide fast, quality

health care, including services such as physical exams, lab tests, counseling services, vaccines, acute illness management, nutrition education and chronic condition management (ex., asthma, diabetes, and obesity). Each School Based Health Center is designed to serve as a “medical home” for students, employees, and their families For more information about the sports physicals being offered, please contact the Edinburg CISD School Based Health Center at (956) 378-9290 or the PSJA ISD School Based Health Center at (956) 787-5454. MDN

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• May 2017 •

STC, DHR and PSJA ISD dual credit seniors first in nation to graduate with Associate Degree in Nursing Each receive lamp symbolic of their roles as ‘lightgivers’ to patients

Mega Doctor News

sisters,” said Abigail Villarreal, 18, and senior from PSJA Memorial CALLEN, TX High School. Taking nursing classes (May 15, 2017) since her sophomore year, Villarreal – Eight Pharr-San is graduating at the top of her class Juan- Alamo ISD seniors, dually this May. enrolled at South Texas College, have “For future students in this become the first cohort of students program, you just need to know that in the nation to graduate with an this is what you want to do, and Associate Degree in Nursing, straight most importantly that it is worth out of high school. it,” Villarreal said. “You need to

learn how to prioritize, and if this is The students will be what you want, then you need to put honored this Thursday May 18, by everything else aside and focus on Doctor’s Hospital at Renaissance your education.” to congratulate them on this unique The Associate Degree achievement. The South Texas Nursing (ADN) Program at STC College Associate Degree Nursing Eight Pharr-San Juan- Alamo ISD seniors, dually enrolled at South Texas College, have prepares students to become safe Program organized a pinning become the first cohort of students in the nation to graduate with an Associate Degree in practitioners in the healthcare field. ceremony, last week.

Upon successful completion of the Nursing, straight out of high school.

Associate of Applied Science major in “Our pinning ceremony for Associate Degree Nursing, graduates STC graduated four cohorts is the first in the nation to address the our graduates is important because it is at the ceremony including traditional growing need for registered nurses are able to sit for the National Council our rite of passage from being a student graduates, LVN to RN, paramedic, and by providing a college-level associate Licensure Examination for Registered nurse to becoming a professional,” said for the first time ever a group of eight degree to qualified high school students Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Dr. Christie M. Candelaria, Department seniors in the Nursing Career Pathway free of charge.

After successfully completing Chair for the ADN program at South Program at Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD The rigorous program is the exam, a student will be a registered Texas College. “Receiving their pins have become the first in the nation to possible thanks to a partnership with nurse and can work in hospitals, daysymbolizes what the college and the graduate with their Nursing Associate South Texas College, Doctor’s Hospital surgery centers, rehabilitation centers, program stands for. In addition, they will Degree while still in high school. at Renaissance and the Region One physicians’ offices, home health care also receive a lamp symbolic of their agencies and other areas. MDN First approved by the Texas Education Service Center. roles as ‘lightgivers’ to those patients Board of Nursing on July 23, 2015, “I feel very honored, and I feel they are taking care of.”

PSJA’s Nursing Career Pathway Program like I have set the example for my younger Continued from page 6

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Behavioral Hospital at Renaissance Celebrates Mental Health Month

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f developing or exacerbating mental illness. It is important to remember that mental health is essential to everyone’s overall health and well-being, and mental illnesses are common and treatable. Yet, people experience symptoms of mental illnesses differentlyand some engage in potentially dangerous or risky behaviors to avoid or cover up symptoms of a potential mental health problem.

“It is important to understand early symptoms of mental illness and know when certain behaviors are potentially signs of something more,” said Dr. Jose Igoa, Medical Director at the Behavioral Hospital at Renaissance.

“We need to speak up early and educate people about risky behavior and its connection to mental illness - and do so in a compassionate, judgment-free way.”

Research shows that by ignoring symptoms, we lose ten years in which we could intervene in order to change people’s lives for the better. Speaking out about what mental illness feels like can encourage others to recognize symptoms

early on in the disease process, and empower individuals to be agents in their own recovery.

One in five American adults will have a diagnosable mental health condition in any given year yet only 41% of them will receive treatment. Therefore, Dr. Igoa asserts, “This Mental Health Month, we are encouraging everyone to learn the signs, ask for help if needed, address symptoms early, and plan an appropriate course of action on a path towards overall health.”

One of the quickest and easiest ways to determine whether you are experiencing symptoms of a mental

health condition is to undergo a mental health assessment. In celebration of Mental Health Month, the Behavioral Hospital at Renaissance will be offering health assessments free of charge with a referral. All assessments will take place at Behavioral Hospital at Renaissance, located at 5510 Raphael Drive in Edinburg, TX and are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information and to register, call 956-362-HELP (4357).

There is a wide variety of treatment options for mental illnesses ranging from talk therapy to medication to peer support, and it may take some time for a person to find the right treatment or combination of treatments that works best for them.

But when they do, the results can be truly amazing and life changing. The Behavioral Hospital at Renaissance wants to help people learn what they can do both to protect their mental health and know about the benefits that come with talking about mental illness. To learn more about the free screenings hosted by Behavioral Hospital at Renaissance, call 956-362-HELP (4357). MDN

MEGA Dr. Carlos Cardenas...

liability lawsuits eroded patient care.

“When you get shot at all the time, when 70 percent or more of your colleagues are named in a lawsuit or a party to a lawsuit and you can no longer recruit, retain or attract [physicians] to your community to do what is needed to be done for the health of your community, something had to change,” said Dr. Cardenas. “That was something that drove me and others in our community to stand up and say, ‘No more.’ We came together and organized.”

Dr. Cardenas received his medical degree at The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Texas. He completed his residency training in internal medicine and gastroenterology at Scott & White Memorial Hospital in Temple, Texas.

In his spare time, he plays charity gigs with several other Rio Grande Valley physicians in their band, The Renaissance Rockers.

“It’s what builds strong community,” he said. “It’s what I call exemplary leadership.” His grandmother would be proud. Outgoing TMA President Don R. Read, MD, of Dallas installed Dr. Cardenas during The Texas Medical Association’s conference.

Story written in collaboration of the Texas Medical Association.

MDN

• May 2017 •

Mega Historia

Truth Decay (La Verdad Podrida), Libro Escrito Por El Dr. Juan D. Villarreal.

Mayo 2017

Denuncia Corrupción Gubernamental

Dentista de Harlingen Publica Libro Sobre Corrupción en Medicaid-Texas Vol 11.

No. 5

12,000 Periódicos a Todo Color

Ejemplar de Complemento

“Acercamos Médicos a la Gente”

Eligen al Dr. Carlos Cárdenas Presidente de la Asociación Médica Más Grande

CIRCULACION AUDITADA

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CONTENIDO - ESPAÑOL 29 Doctor Visionario, Electo Presidente de la Asociación Médica de Texas 28 Hospital de la Mujer en DHR Recibe Designación ‘Texas Ten Step’ del Departamento de Servicios de la Salud 27 Mega Doctor - Eligen al Dr. Carlos J. Cárdenas, Presidente de la Asociación Médica más Grande 25 Mega Historia Dentista de Harlingen Publica Libro Sobre Corrupción en Medicaid-Texas 24 Avanzados Procedimientos Radiológicos Pueden Salvar a Pacientes de Amputaciones de Pies

Dra. Maria Coimbra

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Doctor

Eligen al Dr. Carlos J. Cárdenas, Presidente de la Asociación Médica más Grande

Mega Historia

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Dentista de Harlingen Publica Libro Sobre Corrupción en Medicaid-Texas Dr. John Manllo en su segundo año de una beca de nefrología y con planes de iniciar otro becado en trasplantes, de visita exploratoria en el Valle

• ACLARACION IMPORTANTE• La información aquí publicada no debe considerarse como un diagnóstico, tratamiento o cualquier otro consejo o instrucción de cuidado de salud. La información es provista con el entendimiento de que el publicador no es un practicante de la medicina ni de ninguna otra profesión de salud médica y no entra en la relación practicante/ paciente con sus lectores. Esta casa Editorial no da ni recomienda tratamientos o acciones a sus lectores respecto a su salud o bienestar, aparte de sugerirles a sus lectores que consulten apropiadamente a profesionales de la salud médica. Ninguna acción debe tomarse basada solamente en el contenido de esta publicación. La información y opiniones publicadas aquí se creen ser precisas y sanas al tiempo de la publicación, basadas en el mejor juicio disponible de los autores. Los lectores que confíen en la información dada en esta publicación para remplazar el consejo de profesionales de salud médica, o quienes fallen en consultar a un profesional de la salud, asumen todos los riesgos por esta conducta. Esta casa Editorial no es responsable por errores u omisiones. MDN

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Del Director

Roberto Hugo González Director

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ste Gran Acontecimiento Tardó 4 Décadas en Realizarse Durante todo el tiempo que he estado publicando el Mega Doctor News, he conocido muchos doctores brillantes, médicos que han tenido la mejor educación y entrenamiento en el cuidado de la salud en las mejores universidades de toda la nación y el extranjero. También he conocido doctores que salvan vidas con especialidades únicas en esta área.

Hoy, nadie puede discutir que no es uno de ellos el Dr. Carlos J. Cárdenas, gastroenterólogo en Edinburg. Desde que empezó a practicar la medicina, él se ha involucrado en eventos que benefician a la comunidad del Valle. No importa lo que se tenga que hacer y no importa si la ayuda es necesaria lejos de aquí, él estará ahí. El Dr. Cárdenas es uno de los médicos que siempre contesta a una llamada de auxilio.

Doctor Visionario, Electo Presidente de la Asociación Médica de Texas Este mes, la Asociación Médica de Texas (TMA) instaló al Dr. Carlos J. Cárdenas, como su 152o presidente. Él tomó ese cargo en una ceremonia frente a la Casa de Delegados Legisladores de la TMA durante su conferencia anual en Houston. Él será el director extraordinario de la Asociación Médica de Texas, la sociedad médica más grande de los Estados Unidos. Es una Asociación que está basada en importantes principios médicos: su Visión es mejorar la salud de todos los texanos y su Misión es estar de pie con todos los médicos de Texas, ofreciendo variadas soluciones a los retos que encuentran en el cuidado de sus pacientes.

En otro asunto: Buenas noticias, la Universidad del Valle del Río Grande, nombró al Dr. Dr. Carlos Cardenas

John H. Krouse como su nuevo Vicepresidente para Asuntos Médicos y es el Decano de la Escuela de Medicina.

Krouse viene de la Universidad de Temple, en Filadelfia, Pensilvania, donde fue Decano Asociado Senior para Asuntos Clínicos.

Fue Presidente de los doctores en la universidad Temple University; Profesor y Director del Departamento de Otorrinolaringología – Cirugía de cabeza y cuello. Fue Director del Instituto de Cabeza y Cuello en la Escuela de Medicina Lewis Katz. También fue Decano Asociado del Departamento de Educación de Médicos Graduados del 2012 al 2015.

Enfermeras, Enfermeras, Enfermeras: Graduados de Pharr-San Juan-Álamo ISD que estuvieron doblemente inscritas en el South

Texas College, se han convertido en la primera cohorte de estudiantes de la nación para graduarse con un grado asociado en Enfermería… directamente de la Preparatoria (High School). Estos graduados ayudarán a satisfacer la creciente necesidad de enfermeras.

Denunciando corrupción en Medicaid: El Dr. Juan D. Villarreal, dentista y propietario de Harlingen Family Dentistry, escribió un libro acerca de la corrupción en el Texas Medicaid. El libro salió a la venta en el 2017 y es un libro que se debe leer. Es una poderosa exposición de la corrupción en el gobierno que había atacado sin tregua a los dentistas de Texas como al Dr. Villarreal. El libro se llama “Truth Decay… (La Verdad Podrida) – Cómo el gobierno corrupto causó un escándalo político victimizando a los dentistas de Texas y ¡cómo podría sucederle a usted!

Orgulloso de Conocerle: Mega Doctor News ha conocido al Dr. Leo López III desde que asistía al South Texas College. Estamos muy orgullosos de él y de todos sus logros que son una inspiración para todos. Ahora anunciamos que él ganó el honor de Residente Nacional Hispano del Año 2017 de la Asociación Nacional de Médicos Hispanos en Washington D.C..

Lea de esto y más en esta edición. MDN

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dinburg, TX – El Sistema de la Salud del Doctors Hospital at Renaissance (DHR) y el Hospital de la Mujer en Renaissance han dado gigantescos pasos para mejorar la salud de los recién nacidos e infantes haciéndose acreedores al Texas Ten Step Program, por el Departamento de Servicios de la Salud de Texas. Fundado en 1999, el Texas Ten Step Program sirve como un método para mejorar la práctica, el cuidado y atención materna en las instalaciones de parto. Esta es la quinta vez que las instalaciones del DHR se han hecho merecedoras al programa Texas Ten Step Program, recibiendo la primera designación en el 2008.

Los beneficios a largo término de amamantar, son indiscutibles para los bebés y las madres. La lactancia materna está ligada a la disminución del riesgo de contraer enfermedades para el bebé y la mortalidad infantil, así como minimiza los riesgos de enfermedades maternas. El Programa Ten Steps anima a las madres a amamantar a sus bebés como el método preferido de alimentar a los nuevos recién nacidos e infantes. DHR se une a un gran número de instalaciones de parto que apoyan a las madres en su decisión de amamantar.

Basado en la Organización Mundial de la Salud (World Health Organization, WHO) y la UNICEF, “el Ten Steps tiene éxito al animar a las madres a amamantar a sus bebés”, el programa ayuda a las instalaciones a motivar a las madres antes, durante y después de dar a luz. Este Programa asiste a las instalaciones en buscar recursos para ayudar a las madres

Hospital de la Mujer en DHR Recibe Designación ‘Texas Ten Step’ del Departamento de Servicios de la Salud

Pictured Above: As the preferred method of feeding for newborns and infants, breastfeeding is linked to a decreased risk for infant illness and mortality. después de salir del hospital. El programa también apoya a las instalaciones en mejorar las medidas de resultados nacionales como los Centros para Control y Prevención de Enfermedades ofreciéndoles una cartilla de lactancia materna. El objetivo del programa Ten Steps of Texas es aumentar las tasas de iniciación de la lactancia materna a un 82 por ciento.

materna de los Estados Unidos.

La leche donada de las madres es pasterizada, sin embargo, el 70 por ciento de los factores inmunes que ayudan a proteger a los bebés de enfermedades se conservan. Esta leche donada es un salvavidas en el Pictured Above: The Texas Ten Step Program aims to assist Hospital de la Mujer the support of breastfeeding for mothers before, during, en Renaissance y esta leche es para and after delivery. los bebés de Texas El Women’s Hospital at Renaissance, y para el resto de los WHR, también tiene enfermeras que están Estados Unidos, proveyendo a los bebés especialmente capacitadas en lactancia una segura alternativa a la leche de su materna que pueden ayudar con lo propia madre cuando no está disponible. básico de la lactancia materna, así como El Programa Texas Ten Step provee las técnicas más avanzadas cuando sea recursos y un marco de referencia para necesario. Nuestro equipo también tiene ayudar en los Centros de Nacimiento consultantes de lactancia certificadas para mejorar los resultados de lactancia que proporcionan equipo especial para materna mediante la adopción de realizar esta tarea, asistencia y educación incremento de prácticas basadas en para las nuevas madres. El WHR auspicia evidencias. La designación reconoce el único lugar en el condado con el único hospitales que incrementan las políticas depósito para leche materna donde las que se alinean con los “Texas Ten Steps madres pueden donar su leche para el para una lactancia exitosa” y anima a la Mothers Milk Bank, en Austin, Texas, continuación del avance hacia la búsqueda que es el banco más grande de leche Continua en la página 26

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MEGA DOCTOR

Eligen al Dr. Carlos J. Cárdenas, Presidente de la Asociación Médica más Grande Por Roberto Hugo Gonzalez

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n un evento memorable el grupo médico más grande, The Texas Medical Association (TMA), eligió y dio posesión al Dr. Carlos J. Cárdenas como el 152º presidente durante su conferencia anual. El Dr. Cárdenas es originario del Valle del Río Grande, su práctica médica es en gastroenterología. En su práctica de 28 años el Dr. Cárdenas fue director del Doctors Hospital at Renaissance en el Valle del Río Grande, el cual él ayudó a fundar y es el Director General Administrativo.

Este reportero ha tenido la oportunidad de hablar con el Dr. Cárdenas en varias ocasiones; la primera vez fue en 2008. En el artículo ‘From the Bedside to the Boardroom’ (De Doctor de Cabecera al Salón de Directores), él fue el primer Mega Doctor en ese año. Según la conversación que tuvimos el Dr. Cárdenas y yo, dijo que era un título muy apropiado porque era exactamente lo que los doctores del DHR hacen continuamente. Él estaba hablando del título del artículo. Los años han pasado muy rápido, sin embargo él no ha cambiado. Él es el mismo profesional, siempre dispuesto, buscando soluciones y proveyendo el mejor cuidado médico para las comunidades del Valle del Río Grande.

El ser electo presidente de la Texas Medical Association no es un pequeño logro. De hecho, el único otro médico del Valle que ha tenido este honor ha sido el Dr. Mario E. Ramírez, hace 38 años. El Dr. Ramírez, originario de Rio Grande City, fue electo el 75o. presidente de esta prestigiosa Asociación Médica entre los años 1979-1980. Pasaron cuatro décadas antes que otro originario del Valle del Río Grande tomara la presidencia de esta importante y única Asociación.

El Dr. Cárdenas siempre ha dicho que él está muy orgulloso de ser originario de McAllen. Él es pariente de muchas familias, siendo que sus padres vienen de dos antiguas familias de siglos pasados. Él le dijo a Mega Doctor News que en su lado paternal su familia puede rastrear su linaje familiar desde 1740. El señala que en 1754 el censo de Ciudad Camargo, Tamaulipas, México, se contaba como uno de los Garcías. “El nombre de mi padre es Rubén Cárdenas García, de manera es que nuestros ancestros estuvieron aquí; llegaron de expedición a colonizar a la Nueva Santander”, platicó orgullosamente el Dr. Cárdenas.

Según la historia que él cuenta, “lo que es ahora Tamaulipas, el estado mexicano adyacente al sur de Texas, fue primeramente incorporado como una provincia de la Nueva España en 1746, con el nombre de la Nueva Santander”.

El y su esposa de 28 años, Chris

Durante la primera ceremonia de batas blanca, el Dr. Cárdenas estuvo presente y participó de este importante evento como se ve en esta foto. Por Roberto Hugo González Texas Medicine de Cárdenas, tienen tres hijos, TMA).

Adam R. Cárdenas, Simon Sin embargo su C. Cárdenas y Daniel O. padre no fue su único Cárdenas. Los padres del Dr. modelo.

“Hay que Cárdenas son el señor Rubén predicar con el ejemplo, R. Cárdenas y la señora y eso es algo que aprendí Dardanella G. Cárdenas. de mi abuela, la mamá de “Espero un año de mi mamá. Yo fui el mayor abogacía en el nombre de de los 17 nietos y ella me nuestros pacientes y colegas.

Con la incertidumbre de Dr. Mario E. Ramírez decía que tenía que dar el buen ejemplo para los Washington y la inestabilidad más pequeños. Yo creo en el ámbito de la salud. que eso se aplica a usted Yo creo que se presentarán en todos los aspectos de muchas oportunidades en su entrenamiento cuando abundancia para conducir se está convirtiendo en política y opinión en el un médico. Se aprende mejor interés de nuestros muy rápidamente cuando pacientes, nuestra profesión usted es un becario que y comunidad”, expresó el Dr. debe seguir el ejemplo de Cárdenas. los que están más altos que Amigos cercanos usted y que saben más que a él pueden decir que este Dr. Ruben R. usted”. día era inevitable; el Dr. Cardenas Eventualmente, Cárdenas creció observando el dijo que aprenderá a fuerte liderazgo en su familia.

“Mi padre es un tipo de personalidad intensificar y aceptar la responsabilidad AAA. Estaba todo involucrado en la como líder del equipo, de atención comunidad y su desarrollo. Si había una médica, en el propósito de proporcionar la mesa directiva, él estaba en ella. No mejor atención al paciente. Eso significa estaba solo sirviendo en ella, él era el a veces tener que arremangarse la camisa y ponerse a trabajar. director”, añadió.

“Aprendí que nunca debes pedir “Yo creo que lo que aprendí acerca del liderazgo, lo que aprendí que alguien haga algo que yo no estuviera acerca de participación en la comunidad y dispuesto a hacer. Yo estaba dispuesto lo que aprendí de la política, lo aprendí de a trabajar y cuando menos mostrar que mi padre; es de allí de donde lo aprendí”. estaba dispuesto”, dijo el Dr. Cárdenas.

(Así lo dijo en una entrevista en la revista Esa actitud es parte del porqué él está

Dr. Carlos J. Cárdenas, que se convirtió en nuestro Mega Doctor en septiembre 2008 listo para dirigir la sociedad médica estatal más grande de la nación durante las discusiones de deshacer el Affordable Care Act (Obama Care) y otros potenciales cambios en el cuidado de la salud.

“Cuando esas oportunidades se presentan, es un reto para nuestra TMA. ¡Tráiganlo!, dijo. Él ha sido miembro de la TMA por 33 años y ha aprovechado muchas oportunidades. El Dr. Cárdenas dirigió la Mesa Directiva de la Asociación, el cuerpo de gobierno.

Antes de unirse a la Mesa Directiva en Sigue en la página 26

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• May 2017 •

Viene de la página 28 Hospital de la Mujer... de la designación de Hospital Amigo del Niño (Baby-Friendly Hospital).

“Hemos trabajado arduamente para ganar la designación de ‘Programa de Texas Ten Steps’ y estamos orgullosos de unirnos a los hospitales de Texas seleccionados en promover la lactancia materna a nuestras nuevas madres”, dijo Aída González, MSN, RN, vicepresidenta del Hospital de la Mujer en Renaissance.

Para más informes acerca del Programa Texas Ten Steps, llame a Verónica Hendrix, coordinadora del Programa al (512) 341-4592, o visite el sitio www.texastenstep.org. Pies de foto: El método preferido para alimentar a los recién nacidos e infantes es amamantar a su hijo, que está ligado a disminuir el riesgo de enfermedades y mortalidad en infantes. El Programa Texas Ten Step se enfoca en apoyar la lactancia materna, preparando a las madres antes, durante y después del parto. MDN

Viene de la página 27

MEGA DOCTOR...

el 2005, él fue miembro del Concilio de TMA en la legislación por cinco años, y director legislativo del Caucus Border Health, a la cual aún pertenece. Él es un delegado en la Casa de Delegados de la TMA. También es miembro de la TMA Foundation, el brazo filantrópico de la Asociación. El Dr. Cárdenas es un enlace del TMA con la Coalición de Sociedades Médicas Estatales y es miembro fundador y patrocinador del TEXPAC, Comité de Acción Política de TMA, de la cual él también es un director.

El Dr. Cárdenas aboga regularmente de parte de la medicina y el cuidado de los pacientes; él asiste a ‘Primeros Martes en el Capitolio’ de TMA, los días de sesiones de abogacía legislativa. Él ha atestiguado en numerosas ocasiones ante la legislatura texana y ha asesorado a oficiales electos y a los legisladores en Texas y en Washington sobre asuntos de la salud.

También es miembro de Physician Services Organization (PSO) de TMA. Esta organización de la TMA condujo a la formación de PracticeEdge de la TMA. El Dr. Cárdenas también fue presidente de la Asociación Médica de los Condados Hidalgo y Starr, de la cual todavía es miembro.

También participó en una serie informativa de TMA llamada “Hey, Doc”, videos que explican la nueva ley federal Affordable Care Act. TMA produjo los videos y otros materiales informativos para los pacientes –y doctores cuyos

pacientes buscaban respuestas de ellos –acerca de la adaptación a la nueva ley de la salud. El también ayudó a dirigir la lucha de TMA para la reforma de responsabilidad médica, que se convirtió en ley estatal en Texas en 2003. Los doctores del Valle del Río Grande y de otras ciudades texanas plantaron la semilla cuando creían que demasiadas demandas médicas destruían el cuidado a los pacientes.

“Cuando te tiran todo el tiempo, cuando 70 por ciento o más de tus colegas están en una demanda o participan en una demanda, ya no se puede reclutar, retener o atraer a médicos a la comunidad para hacer lo que se necesita hacer para el cuidado de la salud de la comunidad, algo tenía que cambiar. Eso fue lo que me impulsó a mí y a otros en la comunidad a decir ‘Basta”, nos juntamos y nos organizamos”, exclamó el Dr. Cárdenas.

“El Dr. Cárdenas obtuvo su grado médico de la Universidad de Texas, rama médica en Galveston, Texas. El completó su residencia y entrenamiento en medicina interna y su especialización de Gastroenterología en el Hospital Scott & White Memorial, en Temple, Texas.

En su tiempo libre, le gusta tocar en una banda integrada por varios otros médicos del Valle y él y se llama “Los Renaissance Rockers”. “Todo esto es de construir comunidades fuertes. Es lo que yo le llamo liderazgo ejemplar”.

Su abuela estaría muy orgullosa de él.

El Dr. Don R. Read, MD, de Dallas, presidente saliente de la TMA, instaló al Dr. Cárdenas durante la Conferencia de la Texas Medical Association.

Historia escrita en colaboración con la Texas Medical Association. MDN

GRUPO EDITORIAL

(956) 682-8500 Oficina (956) 451-4585 Ventas

614 S. 12th St., McAllen, TX 78501

www.MegaDoctorNews.com

Roberto Hugo González -Director / Diseño de Portada Beatriz González -Editora en Jefe Jennifer Tovar - Diseño Gráfico Gloria Mangum - Asistente de Administracion Pauline Mangum - Contabilidad Roberto H. González Director de Ventas - 956-451-4585 Jason Mangum Agente de Ventas - 956-821-2507 Maritza J. Rodríguez - Relaciones Públicas / Red South Texas Circulation - Circulación COPYRIGHT © 2006, 2011

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MDN

25

• May 2017 •

Mega Historia Denuncia Corrupción Gubernamental

Dentista de Harlingen Publica Libro Sobre Corrupción en Medicaid-Texas Dr. Juan Villarreal la Expone

AM Por Bill Keltner Texas Border Business

U

n multitudinario grupo de apoyo de dentistas, pacientes y amigos se dio cita en el salón de conferencias del segundo piso de las oficinas dentales del Dr. Juan D. Villarreal, Harlingen Family Dentistry, para escuchar su exposición sobre la corrupción del gobierno que habían atacado sin tregua a los dentistas de Texas como él.

El dentista agradeció a su público y firmó un sinnúmero de copias de su libro: TRUTH DECAY (LA VERDAD PODRIDA) –Como la Corrupción del Gobierno Causó un Escándalo Político Victimizando a los Dentistas de Texas y Cómo Podría Sucederle a Usted!

El valiente dentista escribió este libro para describir su lucha con los burócratas de más alto rango de la Comisión de Servicios Humanos y de la Salud de Texas y la Oficina del Inspector General, quien había señalado al dentista y su práctica en el 2011 con falsas y serias alegaciones de conducta inapropiada dentro del programa de Medicaid. La batalla había probado la creencia en sí mismo y empujó su práctica al borde del colapso financiero al estado de retenerle más de un millón de dólares en pagos por servicios proporcionados a los niños pobres en el Valle del Río Grande. ¿Cómo podía pagarle él a su personal dental?

El describe esta confrontación como la del pequeño David de la Biblia con Goliat, un temible gigante. Su historia es una autobiografía del bien y el mal. Como el pastorcito, el doctor valientemente se enfrentó al intimidante gigante y en las dos batallas, el pequeño ganó. El dentista Villarreal ganó su caso, así como el pequeño David –y ahora él desea que el mundo lo sepa. La conferencia empezó cuando el dentista Villarreal presentó a la Directora de Relaciones Publicas, Gail Thomasan, quien le dijo al público que el doctor era su empleador y su amigo. Gail es una maestra jubilada quien ahora trabaja con el doctor. Ella expresó: “He trabajado con él por muchos años y lo conozco que es un hombre de principios, integridad y dedicación. Por eso es que este libro tenía que ser escrito para corregir los muchos males y proteger a otros de posible daño”, dijo Gail Thomasan.

El dentista Villarreal empezó con una nota personal: “Estos son unos tiempos muy excitantes para mí, yo nunca pensé que algún día sería un escritor. De hecho el escribir para mí como estudiante, era mi peor curso, pero aquí estamos.

Déjenme empezar contándoles quien soy yo, la historia de mi experiencia con el gobierno corrupto y porqué tuve

que escribir este libro”, explicó el Dr. Villarreal.

El dentista Villarreal ha sido dentista por más de 33 años con una práctica muy próspera en Texas. Su práctica ha crecido a ser una de las más grandes instalaciones para Family Dental (Dentista Familiar) en el estado y en la nación con 140 empleados y 12 doctores dentistas en su equipo. “Hemos provisto cuidado ortodóntico dental Medicaid desde1984, en ese tiempo en el sur de Texas había pocos dentistas dispuestos a aceptar el trabajo impopular de proveer atención dental ortodoncista (emparejar los dientes), así como cuidado dental general a niños dependientes de Medicaid”.

Por sus esfuerzos el estado lo señaló con falsas acusaciones de “un alegato de fraude” basado en su interpretación de las regulaciones del Obamacare. “En el 2011 el estado emprendió una cacería de brujas y yo recibí una carta del Inspector General avisándome que a mí me habían puesto un paro de pagos para todo el trabajo ortodóntico Medicaid. Obviamente estaban tratando de arruinar a mí práctica dental y a mí. Con esto hubo una extraordinaria cantidad de problemas financieros para nosotros”. Entonces empezaron meses y años de maniobras legales con oficiales en Austin y en otros lugares, pero terminando con una victoria con este pobre y humilde David y una

Por Dr. Tom Orent CEO Gems Publishing, USA, Inc.

E

sta es una historia verídica de lo mejor y de lo peor del género humano. Es acerca del absoluto poder mal empleado por una serie de poderosos burócratas estatales sin importarles la verdad ni el camino destruido dejado por sus andanzas arrasadoras de autogratificación.

Si esta fuera una novela usted tendría la tentación de tirarla hacia un lado como algo improbable si no imposible.

Desafortunadamente para las víctimas, esta historia que usted va a leer es verídica.

Hay dos grupos de víctimas: por una parte usted tiene a los dentistas que fueron dañados y en algunos casos se fueron a bancarrota por acciones vengativas de ‘oficiales’ usando su poder; el otro grupo son los tres millones de niños, fuerte solo en números y débiles porque eran niños, niños nacidos de familias pobres, niños a quienes debemos de proteger, niños a quienes el interés de la salud se convierte en un inconveniente costo para los oficiales estatales, quienes con su sentido torcido de su misión los llevó lejos de su juramento del deber. Lejos de ‘proteger y servir’, ellos intentaron destruir a los

Doctor Juan Villarreal of Harlingen Family Dentistry.

Photo By Bill Keltner exposición necesaria para el Gigante Goliat.

Para aprender todos los intrincados detalles de esta batalla desigual y la victoria final, usted necesita leer el libro del dentista que expone cómo los malos burócratas buscando su propia gloria y su poder podían usar estos reglamentos por escrito para dañar a inocentes ciudadanos, contribuyentes y empresarios y llevar a la ruina financiera

Prefacio

proveedores del cuidado dental, servicio que desesperadamente es necesitado por los niños del estado de Texas. ¿Cómo es posible que nadie supiera lo que ocurría? Los dentistas tienen que mantener su licencia para practicar con el fin de mantenerse y sostener a sus familias. Desafortunadamente es fácil para los malos oficiales gubernamentales hacer la vida imposible a un dentista.

La amenaza de perder la licencia y la práctica por una convicción de cargos de fraude (aunque esos cargos carezcan de alguna base de verdad) pesan como un peñasco en el pecho y en las mentes de los acusados. Además, el costo de ser acusado, congelar sus cuentas ya ganadas, pero no todavía repartidas a sus empleados, puede ser igualmente o más intimidante que un potencial caso en Corte y la defensa de sus licencias y sus buenos nombres.

Los dentistas han tenido miedo o no han podido luchar. Nadie quería enfrentarse con la autoridad. Hasta ahora, nadie quería pararse y defender a los tres millones de niños y ser sus voces.

La historia de David y Goliat vuelve a repetirse. Este es un cuento del bien y el mal. El Doctor Juan D. Villarreal

a otros con poca o ninguna consecuencia para ellos mismos.

El libro en mención es publicado por TEXAS DENTISTS FOR MEDICAID REFORM. Está ahora disponible en línea en Amazon y otros lugares. Póngase en contacto con la editorial para mayor información en info@tdmr.org. MDN

tuvo la fuerza y el valor para pararse y luchar a gran riesgo y costo para él. Juan decidió luchar para todos los que no podían o querían. Juan dio la voz a los tres millones y más de niños. ■

Truth Decay (La Verdad Podrida), Libro Escrito Por El Dr. Juan D. Villarreal.

24

• May 2017 •

Avanzados Procedimientos Radiológicos Pueden Salvar a Pacientes de Amputaciones de Pies El Dr. Michael DeCandia los Realiza para Desbloquear Arterias en Piernas, Beneficiando a Diabéticos y a otros Pacientes

Mega Doctor News

eslaco – Nuevos procedimientos radiológicos intervencionistas avanzados son realizados en el Knapp Medical Center en Weslaco.

Los cuales pueden ayudar a restaurar el flujo normal de la sangre en las piernas y pies de diabéticos y otros pacientes en el Valle. Y esto puede ayudar a salvarlos de ser potencialmente amputados sus pies o dedos en varios casos.

El Dr. Michael DeCandia, un Radiólogo Intervencionista en el Knapp, está especializado en procedimientos para abrir arterias periféricas que surten de sangre y oxígeno a los pies. Si la sangre que fluye a estas arterias es bloqueada por substancias grasosas (placas, colesterol, etcétera) los dedos pueden dañarse y enfermarse al punto de que no pueden ser salvados.

Los casos trágicos en los cuales a una persona le tiene que ser amputado un pie o un dedo puede hacer que el paciente se incapacite para trabajar o realizar otras funciones a una edad relativamente joven – en muchos casos debido a complicaciones de la diabetes, la cual está muy extendida en el Valle.

“La enfermedad de las arterias periféricas existe en la mayoría de las personas mayores de 60 años y mucho antes en quienes padecen de diabetes.

Aquí en el Knapp Medical Center nosotros utilizamos el equipo más avanzado de angioplastia, aparatos de aterectomía y los ‘stents’ necesarios (dilatadores de arterias) para abrir los vasos sanguíneos en las piernas”, dijo el Dr. Michael DeCandia.

La aterectomía es considerada una opción mínimamente invasiva para cortar una placa que se ha formado dentro de las paredes de un vaso sanguíneo. El paciente recibe anestesia local y entonces un catéter o tubo (parecido a un alambre delgado pero hueco) es insertado en la arteria de la pierna. Una hoja delgada en el extremo del catéter es usado para remover el material grasoso que causa el bloqueo en el interior del vaso sanguíneo.

En otros casos, el Dr. DeCandia usa globos y catéteres especiales para “recanalizar a largo término los vasos sanguíneos obstruidos”. El Dr. DeCandia tiene casi 20 años de experiencia en realizar estos procedimientos especializados de “revascularización de angiogramas” en extremidades con pacientes del Valle.

El Dr. Steven García, Director de Servicios de Imagen para el Knapp Medical Center, expresó que cuando se trata de las arterias periféricas como las de las piernas, los radiólogos intervencionistas como el Dr. DeCandia trabajan como lo haría un cardiólogo para abrir un vaso sanguíneo.

“En el mundo de los doctores especialistas, el Dr. Michael DeCandia es básicamente como un plomero interno… él va a las arterias y trata de desbloquearlas”, agregó el Dr. Orlando

W

Dr. Michael DeCandia López, Tecnólogo de Imaging Services que ayuda al Dr. DeCandia en muchos de los procedimientos en el Laboratorio de Radiología Intervencionista (IR) del Knapp.

Los angiogramas (Rayos X de las arterias y las venas) son realizados con equipo especializado, todo en el laboratorio digital para ver qué tejidos pueden estar afectando la circulación de la

sangre del paciente, la cual está bloqueada, estrecha en un vaso sanguíneo y otros problemas de los vasos sanguíneos. Los variados procedimientos, que se realizan por la ingle en la pierna, representan, en muchos casos, opciones menos invasivas a la cirugía y otras técnicas.

Además de realizar los procedimientos de desbloquear arterias, el Dr. DeCandia es también especialista en el Valle cuando se trata de obstrucción de conductos en pacientes en diálisis. Se trata de “diálisis arterial de desviaciones venosas” las cuales fueron previamente insertadas en el brazo del paciente para facilitar el acceso a los vasos sanguíneos durante los tratamientos de diálisis.

Sin embargo, en algunos pacientes la conexión entre las venas y las arterias se vuelve a tapar o se estrecha, lo cual dificulta que el paciente reciba sus tratamientos de diálisis. En estos casos el Dr. Michael DeCandia usa los Rayos X para visualizar el problema –y entonces infla un globo y coloca un ‘stent’ en la vena del paciente, para restaurar el flujo sanguíneo en el área

de la conexión de derivación.

Los pacientes en diálisis de todo el Valle vienen a Weslaco para este procedimiento especializado con el Dr. DeCandia en el Knapp Medical Center.

En muchos casos, al paciente le es posible reanudar sus actividades normales más tarde o ese mismo día. De hecho, con la mayoría de los procedimientos que el Dr. DeCandia realiza, el paciente entra y sale del hospital el mismo día.

“Tratamos de ser muy eficientes en nuestro cuidado. Nosotros realizamos procedimientos con un tiempo muy corto de recuperación”, aclaró el Dr. Michael DeCandia. Además de el Dr. DeCandia, los radiólogos en el Knapp Medical Center incluyen al Dr. Allan Kapilivsky, MD (es uno de los pocos especialistas certificados en radiología nuclear en el Valle) y el Dr. Carlos Maldonado, DO. Para más información sobre Imaging and Radiology Services en el Knapp, favor de llamar al (956) 969-5461 o visite el sitio www.KnappMed.org/Services/ImagingServices.aspx. MDN