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Communication App is a Time-saver ALSO INSIDE New Chancellor’s ‘Forward’ Approach to Medical Organizations
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Metro Omaha Medical Society 7906 Davenport St. • Omaha, NE 68114 (402)393-1415 • www.omahamedical.com OFFICERS President | Debra L. Esser, M.D. President-Elect | David D. Ingvoldstad, M.D. Secretary-Treasurer | Lori Brunner-Buck, M.D. Past President | Marvin J. Bittner, M.D. Executive Director | Carol Wang EXECUTIVE BOARD Debra L. Esser, M.D. David D. Ingvoldstad, M.D. Lori Brunner-Buck, M.D. Marvin J. Bittner, M.D. Mohammad Al-Turk, M.D. Jane Bailey, M.D. David Filipi, M.D. Harris Frankel, M.D. Michelle Knolla, M.D. Jason Lambrecht, M.D. William Orr, M.D. William Shiffermiller, M.D. Gamini Soori, M.D. Jeffry Strohmyer, M.D. EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING STAFF Publisher | Omaha Magazine, LTD Editor | Marvin Bittner, M.D. Art Director | John Gawley Director of Photography | Bill Sitzmann Senior Graphic Designer | Kristen Hoffman Junior Graphic Designer | Marti Latka advertising sales Todd Lemke • Greg Bruns Gwen Lemke • Gil Cohen • Vicki Voet Sandy Besch • Alicia Smith • Sydney Stander Jessica Linhart • Dawn Dennis for advertising information: 402-884-2000 Physicians Bulletin is published bi-monthly by Omaha Magazine, LTD, P.O. Box 461208, Omaha NE 68046-1208. © 2014. No whole or part of contents herein may be reproduced without prior permission of Omaha Magazine or the Metro Omaha Medical Society, excepting individually copyrighted articles and photographs. Unsolicited manuscripts are accepted, however, no responsibility will be assumed for such solicitations. Omaha Magazine and the Metro Omaha Medical Society in no way endorse any opinions or statements in this publication except those accurately reflecting official MOMS actions.
4 Physicians Bulletin March/April 2014
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5
THIS Issue 20
March/April 2014 22
26
FEATURES 18 New Chancellor’s ‘Forward’ Approach
DE PA RTM E NTS 8 Editor’s Desk
2 0
No Excuses:
10
MOMS Message
2 2
Cover: Communication App
12
NMA Message
2 6
Creighton Dean Found
14
Legal Update
15
Future Physician Report
16
Risk Management
17
Financial Services
3 0
MOMS Events
31
MOMS Coming Events
33
New Member Update
37
Member News
to Medical Organizations
Putting a Price Tag on Common Sense
Help MOMS Build a Habitat Home is a Time-saver
the Right Combination
6 Physicians Bulletin March/April 2014
Answering the Question ‘Why’ Legislative Session Wanes, Election Heats Up Giving Wisely
Several Pleasant Surprises
Monitoring the Financial Health of Your Practice Disability Insurance: Take a Second Look
Patients with ID Problems? We provide team-based care for: • Infectious Diseases Inpatient/ Outpatient Consultations • Office Infusion Therapy • Vaccine Management
FOR ASSISTAnCE AnD COnSulTATIOn COnTACT uS AT
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Robert G. Penn MD, FACP, FSHEA, FIDSA
Board Certified: Infectious Diseases Douglas Penington, APRN Stacey Shinaut, APRN Elizabeth Jacobsen, PA-C Courtney Sullivan, ACNP Erin Thoman, APRN
March/April 2014 Physicians • Omaha, 8111 Professional Building • 8111 Dodge Street, Suite 363 NE 68114Bulletin 7
EDITOR’S desk
Putting a Price Tag on Common Sense
Marvin Bittner, M.D. Editor Physicians Bulletin
I
T MADE PERFECT SENSE. I, as an infectious
diseases specialist, understood it immediately. Yet I knew it was ridiculous. What was “it?” It was a practice that a pediatrician was describing. She was a graduate of Creighton University School of Medicine. She had gone on to complete a pediatrics residency in, as she described it, the poorest congressional district in the United States: the south Bronx. From there she had gone to, as it was described, the fifth poorest country in the world: Malawi. Now, she is practicing pediatrics in an urgent care setting in Seattle. “It” was a practice she had seen in the urgent care center. Whenever the center needed to put some drops in a child’s ear, the staff would open a bottle of ear drops, deposit the drops in the ear, and immediately discard the rest of the bottle of ear drops. The practice – immediately discarding the rest of the bottle – made sense from an infection prevention viewpoint. If the dropper had somehow gotten contaminated in the course of administering medication to an irritable child, there was risk of spreading infectious agents to the next child arriving at the urgent care center. Yet it was a wasteful practice. At a time when there is more and more concern about the cost of health care, it was ridiculous. The urgent care center had faced a conflict. Should it take every precaution to prevent an outbreak of infection? Or should it adopt a more frugal policy – and discard ear drops only in cases where contamination was observed? The center had said “no” to frugality. That’s what seemed so odd to a pediatrician trained in
8 Physicians Bulletin March/April 2014
the poorest part of the United States, who had worked in one of the poorest countries in the world. “Say ‘no’ to frugality” hardly seems to be an appropriate slogan for U.S. health care. Yet isn’t it what we see again and again and again? The most glaring example is the adoption of electronic health records. Don’t get me wrong. I’m not denying their advantages. But can we ignore their costs? When they turn 20-minute visits into 30-minute visits, can we ignore the cost of impaired physician productivity? When their adoption is goaded by $44,000 federal incentives and labyrinthine regulations, how can we avoid wondering if their vendors would make any sales in a marketplace bereft of federal incentives and regulations? Simply put, are they worth it? What about the movement to demand maintenance of certification? Does it really improve patient care? More to the point, is its benefit worth the cost of fees paid to the certifying boards and the cost of physician time devoted to accruing Maintenance of Certification (MOC) points? Ask yourself about the impetus for some of these practices that carry price tags that, frankly, may not be justifiable. If you’re like me, you’ll see government laws and regulations. As physicians, we are ideally situated to identify practices of dubious value. Will you do so? Will you speak up? Will you amplify your voice by joining organizations like MOMS and the NMA – and supporting our efforts to influence public policy?
MOMS message
Answering Debra Esser, M.D. President
the Question ‘Why’
Metro Omaha Medical Society
W
HY, WHY DO WE live in Omaha when it is
below zero all day in January? Why did we become doctors? Why is the sky blue? Why did I join MOMS? Not exactly deep questions, but ones that we all sometimes ask. Why, for me, is a way to give back to my medical community and to the community at large. Ninety days and counting. So far in my presidency, I have given a talk to two Omaha Street School classes, enjoyed a Women in Medicine event, attended the Medical Legal Dinner and signed up for MOMS Habitat for Humanity DocBuild. Yes, this has been a productive few months and this is just the beginning. Perhaps we are starting to answer the question why. The Inaugural Dinner in January was a delight from my standpoint. It was a great evening to share with friends although it was very cold outside. We had a lovely dinner and MOMS staff did a great job of organizing the affair. We had a variety of items for the silent auction and were able to raise more than $1000 for the MOMS Foundation. The interaction with my colleagues reminded me of our commitment to our community and confirms the decision to stay in a climate where it is below zero all day in January. I think back to why I chose medicine as a career. My grandfather was a doctor and I saw how he was able to help people. I became a doctor to help people, as most of us did. Sometimes it is hard to see how we help people when it is the end of a long day of seeing 40 or 50 people, with a stack of charts waiting to be dictated, documentation to be done in the EHR and calls to return. MOMS is dedicated this year to find ways we can help the people in our community in nontraditional ways. This year, we offer the opportunity to educate. This year, we offer the
10 Physicians Bulletin March/April 2014
opportunity to join a speaker’s bureau and be available when the press needs a statement. This year, we offer the opportunity to be part of a team of builders for healthy homes. The Omaha Street School experience is unique. The classes are small but the students are attentive. The Omaha Street School, located on the grounds of the old Nebraska School for the Deaf at 3223 N. 45th St., is an accredited faith-based school for at-risk youth who have not been successful in traditional settings. I spoke about adolescent health issues to two classes of about 10 students each. They asked good questions and challenged me a little with some direct questions about childbirth and contraception. I believe they appreciated honest direct answers to their questions. There are a variety of topics the students would like to hear about, so if you are interested, please let Laura Polak know and she can schedule the time. As I relax at home this evening, I think with anticipation of early May and getting together to build. I think this will be a great triumph for MOMS. We will build in teams of 20 for a morning or afternoon. What a great time to see colleagues helping our community -- swinging hammers and paintbrushes instead of employing stethoscopes and scalpels. I am sure we will have a great showing for our first adventure into the world of construction. Why do we live in Omaha? Why did we become doctors? The answer is clear. We live in a great community and want to make it better. Why is the sky blue? Well it has to do with the diffraction of light through the atmosphere. That is a question for my physicist husband. All I know for sure is that blue skies are coming and we will enjoy them.
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boystownhospital.org March/April 2014 Physicians Bulletin 11
NMA message
Dale Mahlman Executive Vice President
Legislative Session Wanes, Election Heats Up
Nebraska Medical Association
A
S I WRITE THIS piece, spring is less than
30 days away and our legislative session has almost reached the halfway point of a short, 60-day session. While our work, or that of the MOMS staff, is never done, the hint of spring and distant vision of Sine Die, signaling the end of the session, propel all of us toward the finish line. This year has included legislation to expand health insurance in Nebraska, (LB 887, the Wellness in Nebraska Act) public safety efforts (LB 807, the Roadway Safety Act, targeted at seat belts and texting while driving), the usual attempt to repeal the mandatory motorcycle helmet bill (LB 393, which has been stopped), an effort by APRNs to eliminate their integrated practice agreement with collaborating physicians (LB 916), progress toward an operational statewide Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (LB 1072), the Health Information Initiative Act to provide sustainable funding for NeHII and the future of Health Information Exchange in the state (LB 953), and lastly, a couple of bills, LB 862 and LB 893, introduced to increase the excess fund cap under the Hospital Medical Liability Act. Our efforts at the Legislature are led by our advocacy and regulation director Jina Ragland, communications director Carole Bates and NMA lobbyist Ann Frohman. In spite of our excellent staff involvement, our biggest asset at the Legislature remains an active physician engaged on an issue of interest. With a citizen Legislature representing the 49 districts across the state, a call, email or note from a constituent remains the best tool in our arsenal to educate, persuade and influence the senators on our issues of interest. Without a physician serving in the Legislature, the MOMS breakfasts, emails, phone calls to senators and other social contacts are our best hope to be sure the voice of medicine is accurately represented.
12 Physicians Bulletin March/April 2014
With the end of the session comes the May 2014 primary to decide the candidates who will advance to the November 2014 general election. With multiple candidates in the U.S. Senate, governor, attorney general and state auditor races, along with 17 term-limited seats being filled in the Legislature, we have taken an active role following the candidates and encouraging physicians to be an active part of the campaign process. At the state Legislature level, we have one physician running for a term-limited seat in Lincoln’s District 28, Dr. Bob Rauner, who was highlighted in a previous issue of the Physicians Bulletin. With a contested primary ahead of him, Dr. Rauner is actively doing the things necessary to familiarize himself with his voters, while at the same time serving as an NMA representative on multiple issues during this legislative session. The Nebraska Medical Association, along with several other statewide health-care associations, will be hosting a candidate forum in Omaha June 26 for Omaha-area legislative districts. As the date nears, more information will be available, but we thought this would be a good opportunity to compare many of the candidates, side by side. As with previous columns, I’d like to encourage you – as our best resources – to continue to take an active role in the future of health care. Whether the activity is being offered at the national, state or local level, there is nothing like having a physician in the room to highlight the vast differences in education, training and perspective from the others coming forward as “health-care providers.” Let us know how we can help; if you need information or talking points on an issue, just contact us and we’d be happy to provide the background information you need. Advocating for physicians and the health of all Nebraskans – we do all we can to make that happen.
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March/April 2014 Physicians Bulletin 13
LEGAL update
Marlon M. Lofgren Chair of Banking, Finance and Creditor’s Rights Practice Group Koley Jessen P.C., L.L.O.
Financing Medicare/ Medicaid Health Care Insurance Receivables
A
HEALTH-CARE PROVIDER TYPICALLY HAS
a line of credit he or she can utilize for daily operations. This line of credit is generally “secured” by the health-care provider’s assets, including its accounts receivable. The purpose of this article is to explain why a lender requires certain procedures due to the involvement of Medicare/Medicaid accounts receivable. When accounts receivable are used to secure the loan, a secured lender would normally file a UCC financing statement to perfect its security interest in the accounts receivable and also seek to perfect the security interest in the deposit account where the cash proceeds from the accounts receivable are deposited when the receivables are paid. The importance of perfecting the security interest in the deposit account where the cash proceeds are deposited is that in order for the secured lender’s security interest to remain perfected in the cash proceeds, the proceeds must remain identifiable and not be commingled with other funds. In order to ensure that the proceeds remain identifiable, a secured lender may require the health-care provider to deposit the proceeds into a separate deposit account under the secured lender’s control. Federal laws create an obstacle to the secured lender’s ability to perfect its security interest in the deposit account where the cash proceeds from the Medicare/Medicaid receivables are deposited. Under the federal laws, a secured lender is not allowed to retain any right of offset against the deposit account containing Medicare/Medicaid receivable payments and only the health care provider may issue instructions on the account. This sometimes results in the secured lender refusing to include Medicare/Medicaid receivables in the collateral pool or borrowing base,
14 Physicians Bulletin March/April 2014
which then reduces or limits the amount that can be borrowed on the loan. To overcome this dilemma, the lender and health-care provider can agree to a double lock box arrangement to mitigate the risks involved with the use of Medicare/Medicaid receivables as collateral. The double-lock box arrangement involves the use of two separate deposit accounts. One account is used for non-Medicare/Medicaid receivables that the secured lender can control through an appropriate deposit account control agreement. The second account is used for the Medicare/Medicaid receivables. The federal laws require the health-care provider to retain the ultimate right to direct the disposition of funds in the Medicare/Medicaid account and the secured lender must expressly agree in the loan agreement that it will not exercise any setoff rights against the Medicare/Medicaid account. To minimize the risk of the health-care provider directing the disposition of funds in the account to itself or perhaps another lender, the secured lender will usually require that funds in the Medicare/Medicaid account be swept at regular intervals, or even daily, into an account controlled by the secured lender. However, because the health-care provider must remain in control of the Medicare/Medicaid deposit account, the health-care provider can rescind the sweep order at any time and the depository bank is required to comply with the health-care provider’s instructions. To reduce this additional risk, the secured lender will usually include a provision in the loan agreement providing for an event of default if proceeds from any Medicare/ Medicaid receivables are used in a manner not approved by the secured lender.
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with a lifetime of learning, and learning is not simply obtaining good grades or evaluations but a part of the overarching goal of becoming a better physician. In order to achieve that goal effectively, mentorship is vital. As a first-year medical student, I have heard stories of intimidation and ridicule in medicine (you know, the usual horror stories everyone hears). However, I am surprised by and very grateful for the overwhelming welcome I have received in just a few months into my training. Even though we have a required preceptorship at UNMC that I enjoy very much (thank you, Dr. Gupta!), I wanted more exposure to clinical experiences in different fields. A good friend is a urology resident at UNMC and I asked if I could shadow him. Not expecting much of an opportunity and outcome since what can a first-year medical student do besides be a ratelimiting step, boy was I wrong! Not only did I get the first of what turned out to be many dates set up, but I have also scrubbed in and assisted in their surgeries, gone to clinics and conferences, rounded with them, and now I am even a PI in a research project! The most surprising of all to me was how many pleasant people there are in addition to my friend, including other residents, attendings, current and former chairs, and even support staff (yes, their secretary smiles!). More important, besides being nice, they were all willing to pause what they were doing, listen, answer questions and teach me. It was not simply observing but a dynamic and positive interaction, through which I have learned perhaps a miniscule amount to them but a tremendous amount of knowledge and skills to me that I know will help me become a better physician. Besides clinical experiences, I also wanted to be involved in the local medical community. Joining the American Medical Association as a student also gave me a membership in the Metro Omaha Medical Society. After getting an OK from Laura Polak to attend the MOMS annual meeting as a student (thank you, Laura!), I was
Andy W. Yang First-year Medical Student University of Nebraska Medical Center
both excited and apprehensive. Not knowing what to expect, I RSVP’d for and volunteered my lovely dentist wife to accompany me to the meeting. Since the moment we walked into the Happy Hollow Club, with each step my smile was fading. “I don’t think we belong; sorry honey. We can go whenever you want,” I whispered to my wife. Not knowing anyone else and without those two letters on either of our nametags, even the product reps probably felt trapped talking to us. Thinking that we should just entertain ourselves until the meeting started, my wife and I sat at a corner table in the back calculating and betting the chances ours would be filled last. Luckily, my wife saw a couple of familiar faces, and all of a sudden, I was having dinner and conversing with some very nice people from Midwest Gastrointestinal Associates, as well as Alegent Creighton family medicine and ophthalmology clinics. Not only did the annual meeting turn out to be informative and fun, but I also gained many invaluable insights and was exposed to other fields of medicine. Thanks to everyone at the table for enthusiastically sharing what they do with a first-year know-it-none. I do not know if the horror stories in medicine will ever disappear. What I do know is that I have none to tell from my personal experience so far. Furthermore, I believe that there are many inspiring and encouraging mentors in medicine here in Omaha willing to share his or her time and wisdom. I am very grateful for every single one of them that I have encountered, and because of them, I strive to become not only a better physician to future patients, but also a better mentor to future trainees. For more information on membership or the MOMS Young Physicians group, contact Laura Polak at 402-393-1415 or Laura@OmahaMedical.com
March/April 2014 Physicians Bulletin 15
RISK management
Tara Wisdom Healthcare Manager Lutz & Company, P.C.
A
MEDICAL PRACTICE NEEDS THE same
level of care and attention as a patient in order to stay healthy and to thrive. As long as everything is running well and the bills are paid and payroll is met, it is easy to ignore or avoid the details. But when trouble arises, the physician owner(s) must be able to diagnose and treat their business. If they do not know how, then further education is necessary. Timely monthly or quarterly financial reports provide a broader perspective on the financial health of your medical practice. This allows physicians to review the sources of revenue the practice is generating and monitor expense, but entails more than just gathering financial data. Analyzing this data is the real challenge as detailed here. An income (profit-and-loss) statement details your revenues and expenses for a given period. It can be set up to provide comparisons to previous months or years so that you can easily identify any variations from the same period in the past. If there are any significant differences in an income or expense category, they should be examined and explained by your office manager. Also, it is helpful to obtain “benchmark” data to compare your practice with similar practices across the country. These data will aid you in identifying where you can improve your financial performance. Many practices already monitor expenses on a global basis, but expenses should be tracked by
Monitoring the Financial Health of Your Practice category as well. This approach can also help to detect a common embezzlement scheme whereby an employee sets up a phantom supply company and issues checks to himself or herself through it. A select few expenses should be included in a regular “vital signs” report because of their susceptibility to variability, including: • Total expenses, which for family practice should typically average 60 percent to 70 percent of collections (excluding personal benefits to the physician, such as health insurance, retirement contributions, travel, entertainment, automobiles, depreciation and interest payments on loans – especially student loans). • Staffing, the biggest expense in all family medicine practices, which should typically average 20 percent to 25 percent of collections (excluding physicians and mid-level providers but including billing and transcription services, if any). • Total supplies, which should typically average 5 percent to 8 percent of collections but can vary significantly by type and age of practice and types of ancillary services offered. Because most practices operate on a cash basis accounting model, accounts receivable and accounts payable are the keys to monitoring your cash flows. A once-a-week status report on accounts receivable allows your practice to make timely decisions regarding write-offs or
16 Physicians Bulletin March/April 2014
placements with collection agencies. Additional reports should be prepared and reviewed monthly, including: • Accounts receivable more than 60 days overdue. • Follow up with appeals or corrected claims filed with the payer as quickly as possible. • Gross and net collections and accounts receivable turnover ratios. • Delinquent accounts payable for reasons, and attending to them promptly. • Write-off report. • Reconciliation of cash per collections (bank) to the cash received as a report in practice billing software. Another key financial tool is to have the bank statements mailed to the physician’s home address. Physicians should make a habit of reviewing the transactions on their practices’ bank statement, including deposits and payments. They should be critical of unauthorized electronic transactions and checks to vendors in round dollar amounts. Also consider having an internal control review completed to help identify any risk areas. While you may not have been trained in finance or practice management, you need to know how to monitor your practice’s financial health through internal resources and outside experts.
FINANCIAL ser vices
Disability Insurance:
Chris Insinger and Aaron Ostler
Take a Second Look
Insurance and Investment Specialists Heritage Financial Services
H
ELPING PEOPLE GET WELL and stay healthy
is one of the most important and difficult jobs of physicians. Keeping your financial plan healthy and well is also important. Disability insurance is one of the most important financial decisions a person makes; for, it is protecting your most valuable asset – your ability to work and provide an income. Understanding your disability insurance policy and how it works is equally important. If your disability insurance policy could speak, hopefully it would say something like this: “You and I have similar purposes in this world. It is your job to provide food, clothing, shelter, schooling, medicine and other things for your loved ones. You do this while I lie in your desk drawer. I have faith and trust in you. Out of your earnings will come the cost of my upkeep. At times, I may appear to be worthless to you – but some day (and no one knows when), you and I will change places.” “When you become sick and hurt and can’t work, I will come alive and do your job. I will provide the food, clothing, shelter, schooling, medicine, and other things your family will continue to need – just as you are doing now. When your ability to work is done, mine will begin. Through me, your ability to earn a paycheck will carry on.” “Whenever you feel the price you are paying for my upkeep is burdensome, remember that if and when the time comes, I will do more for you and your family than you ever can do for me. If you do your part, I will do mine.”
Although we hope to never use our disability insurance policies, making sure our disability insurance program is designed the way we want before we need it is critical. Many physicians have a group disability insurance policy, but are not fully aware of how it works. A few questions you should first ask is how much coverage does it provide and who is paying for this plan? A typical group disability insurance plan will provide 60 percent of a person’s salary to a maximum monthly amount such as $10,000 or $15,000 per month. Should your employer pay for this coverage and you become disabled, this monthly benefit will be taxed as income to you, resulting in a significant different monthly benefit. It may have started at 60 percent of your salary, but now could represent as little as 40 percent of your salary due to the taxation. To address this situation, many will purchase individual disability insurance policies to offset the taxable situation as well as provide more income protection. Over the years, insurance companies have raised issue and participation limits for physicians, allowing them to protect more of their income. As disability insurance awareness month approaches in May, it is a good time for people to take a second look at their disability insurance program. Take time to review your disability insurance policies to make sure the individual coverage and group coverage are working together to protect your most valuable asset the way you intended.
March/April 2014 Physicians Bulletin 17
feature
The Gold File Hometown: Brooklyn, N.Y. Bachelor’s Degree: Cornell University College of Engineering in theoretical and applied mechanics Medical degree: Weill Cornell Medical College Residency: The New York Hospital and Memorial Hospital in general surgery, and Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Boston Children’s Hospital of Harvard Medical School in cardiothoracic surgery. Specialty: Adult and pediatric cardiac surgery Title: Chancellor, University of Nebraska Medical Center Family: Wife, Robin Hayworth, M.D.; daughter, Stephanie (in medical school at Cornell); son, Matthew
A ‘Forward’ Approach to Medical Organizations
J
EFFREY P. GOLD, M.D., credits those who mentored
him early in his professional career for showing him – by example – the importance of getting involved in leadership roles through medical associations and organizations. “I was surrounded by mentors who held national leadership roles inside and out of my specialty. I emulated their leadership and learned that by having these connections meant to be able to network throughout health care.” These mentors, Dr. Gold said, generously gave of their time and instilled in him a lesson he’s carried with him: “It’s always about paying it forward.” Dr. Gold succeeded Harold M. Maurer, M.D., in February as chancellor of the University of Nebraska Medical Center. He came to UNMC from Ohio, where he served as chancellor and executive vice president of biosciences and health affairs, and executive dean of the College of Medicine at the University of Toledo. He had been at the University of Toledo since 2005. His arrival in Omaha to begin his duties illustrated the value he places on his involvement in medical organizations – he flew to Nebraska directly from Florida, where he had attended a meeting of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. Dr. Gold admitted that this involvement – he has served on more than 50 professional committees during
18 Physicians Bulletin March/April 2014
his professional career – may take him away from home. “The long and short of it is that these are opportunities to advocate for core values about the practice of medicine and opportunities to build policy regarding education and quality of care.” During a recent conversation about the importance of involvement in medical associations on the national, state and local levels, Dr. Gold emphasized the importance of involvement with the American Medical Association. “It’s certainly one of, if not the principal voice of medicine in the United States. We’re going through tumultuous times in health care – and we need a strong voice that has at its core the fundamental values regarding access to care and quality education.” Dr. Gold recently was featured in an AMA publication about his involvement. He explained that he increased his involvement about seven years ago when asked to consider running for the Council on Medical Education to represent his specialty. (He has served previously on the board of directors for the Society for Thoracic Surgery and as president of the Thoracic Surgery Directors Association). In the article, which he described as focusing on why young people should serve, Dr. Gold explained how volunteering as a leader in medicine helps him in his daily work: “Leadership in any profession is not a lifetime achievement award based on being an excellent clinician,
feature educator or scientist. Instead it is a set of skills that are refined and honed over time that allow physicians to deal with difficult situations and to advocate for quality in education, discovery and patient care. …It’s not just that some are natural-born leaders – leadership takes study, practice, and constantly refining one’s skill sets. These skills are broadly applicable and highly satisfying.” He illustrated the importance of the AMA and the Council on Medical Education through its nominations of specialty boards and professional organizations – from the American Board of Medical Specialties to the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education – all the alphabet soups, as he called them. “It isn’t the only way to get involved in leadership positions with these organizations, but it is one way.” While in Ohio, Dr. Gold, for example, was involved as a member of the Leadership Council for the Toledo Lucas County Academy of Medicine and as chairman (several times) of the Ohio Council of Medical Deans. He said he plans to continue that type of involvement in Nebraska and Omaha. Dr. Gold said he will assist any colleague who wishes to get involved in professional organizations or his or her specialty board. “My hope is to create opportunities for up and rising students and faculty as they evolve in their careers. People were kind enough to mentor me.” Dr. Gold said he couldn’t recall the day when he decided he wanted to lead an academic institution. As his professional career progressed – starting as a resident, then administrative chief resident, a division chief, to a department chair, as a dean, then a provost and finally as chancellor, Dr. Gold said: “I have an unending desire to help others build their careers – to make sure the next generation of health-care professionals feel the same passion I feel.” Ultimately, he said, this approach will help ensure that his children and their children will have access to the finest health care in the world. As chancellor at UNMC, Dr. Gold said, he will be visible. That’s why faculty, staff and hospital patients shouldn’t be surprised to see him walking the buildings on evenings and weekends and talking with whoever is willing to engage in conversation with him. The weekdays may be filled with meetings, but after hours are his time – and he chooses to spend some of it getting to know his peers and the people in the organization he serves. “It’s a statement of your values.”
The Metro Omaha Medical Society Foundation identifies and provides support to community priorities where physician involvement can make a difference in improving the health of the Metro Omaha Community.
MOMS Foundation 7906 Davenport St. Omaha, NE 68114 402-393-1415 March/April 2014 Physicians Bulletin 19
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MOMS DOCBUILD May 8-10 Volunteers Needed Sign up online at omahamedical.com
No Excuses: Help MOMS Build a Habitat Home
T
URNER MORGAN SAYS THE conversation typically
goes something like this: “I can’t help with a Habitat build. I don’t have the skills.” Morgan’s response: “It doesn’t matter. Come on down. We’ll show you what to do. Our supervisors will show you how.” “Is there a build close to my home? I’m not sure I’m comfortable with that side of town.” Morgan: “We’re working out in the community – where it’s needed.” “I don’t know what I can do to help?”
20 Physicians Bulletin March/April 2014
Morgan: “We’ll find something for you to do.” As Habitat’s volunteer relations coordinator, Morgan is responsible for lining up volunteers for each Habitat build. At any given time, he said, the nonprofit organization has 10 to 15 projects underway. Last year, he said, Habitat for Humanity volunteers helped build or renovate 43 homes, which were then sold to low-income families. This is where Morgan debunks another misconception about Habitat for Humanity and the people it serves: That Habitat homes are given away. Habitat administrators work closely with prospective
feature
May/June 2013
Habitat homeowners. First, they must provide 300 hours of “sweat equity” on their new homes. They must learn basic maintenance and take financial fitness classes, Morgan said. The homes are sold with 0 percent-interest loans. “We do our best to set them up for success,” he said. MOMS invites members and their families to volunteer for DocBuild, MOMS Habitat build event May 8-10. Volunteers may work either or both shifts each day (8:30 a.m.-noon; 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.). Morgan said the build site will be determined nearer the start date. For more information or to volunteer, register online at www.omahamedical.com Volunteers must be at least 16 years of age. Should a volunteer sustain an injury while on a worksite, Morgan said, Habitat’s supplemental insurance would cover anything not covered by the volunteer’s personal insurance. “We have you covered,” he said. MOMS President Deb Esser, M.D., said she’s excited that MOMS is getting involved with Habitat for Humanity. “Being able to be part of a team of physicians, using our hands in another form of community healing is appealing to me, and I think will appeal to our members as well.” Morgan provided additional insight into how the Omaha affiliate, which was founded in 1986, operates: During its early days, Habitat for Humanity would build just about anywhere – typically where a residential lot became available or was donated. Now, the nonprofit works with the city to strategically locate potential building sites. These days, don’t be surprised to find Habitat building several houses at one location. Recently, three Habitat houses went up near 37th and Meredith streets. Habitat works with neighborhood associations and is careful to communicate with residents once a tentative location is selected. “Ninetynine percent of the time, we’re welcomed with open arms,” Morgan said. Morgan offered an incentive for MOMS members to participate in a Habitat build: A chance to learn a new skill. Morgan said he didn’t know how to hang drywall until he became a Habitat staffer “Now I can hang drywall all by myself.” “If you want to learn more about framing, we’ll find a date and a place where we’re framing.” Dr. Esser added: “Come and join us. Trade your stethoscope for a hammer – and build a healthy home.”
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Omaha Magazine 3_3_14.indd 1
March/April 2014 Physicians Bulletin 3/3/2014 2:14:06 PM21
COVER feature
22 Physicians Bulletin March/April 2014
COVER feature
Communication App is a Time-saver
L
UKE NORDQUIST, M.D., HAS figured out how to take back some of what he needs most: time. “I am always taxed for time,” he said. “There’s always something new I have to sign. A paper to fill out. A phone call to return.” The list goes on. As an oncologist always on the move, Dr. Nordquist said, he could empathize with Omaha billionaire Warren Buffett’s desire to have a time machine. In his case, time spent waiting to communicate with his peers was inefficient and driving him crazy. One early morning, he recalled, he had an idea how to solve his time constraints. “I woke up at 2 a.m. and told my wife ‘I got this idea.’ She said go back to bed.” His idea was for a physician-to-physician communication app called Link the Docs. “It just baffles me how simple it is. I don’t understand how no one figured this out before.” Here’s how it works: Dr. Nordquist is working with a patient, and needs to share his findings with her pulmonologist and cardiologist. “I could page them, but it would require my staff’s time, it could be an hour before I hear back, and I would have to have their contact information.” His dilemma illustrates a story he read in USA Today recently that lamented that poor physicianto-physician communication results in $8.5 billion lost annually through delay hospital discharges, etc. Instead of waiting, Dr. Nordquist uses the Link the Docs app on his iPhone. He hits record. He records his message and hits send. A list of potential physician recipients pops up. “I can pick one. I can pick five. I can pick 75. Then to complete the circle, I can see who has listened to the message.” Those messages sometimes are directed to Jon Morton, M.D., and Sam Mehr, M.D. The two said they are fans of Dr. Nordquist’s voice-messaging phone app. “Think about all the time spent on hold while the nurse gets the doctor,” said Dr. Morton, a urologic surgeon. “If I had a nickel for every minute I do that, I’d retire.”
The Nordquist File Hometown: Beresford, S.D. Bachelor’s Degree: Creighton University in pharmacy Medical Degree: Creighton University School of Medicine Residency: University of South Florida/ H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Fla., in internal medicine Fellowship: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medical College in New York City in medical oncology and hematology Title: Medical Director Organizations: Urology Cancer Center and the GU Research Network Hobbies: Landscaping, fishing and hunting Family: Wife, Rachel Townley Nordquist; children, Hannah, Thomas, Gretta and Heidi Nordquist
March/April 2014 Physicians Bulletin 23
COVER feature
Instead, he relies on Link the Docs, as does Dr. Mehr, whose specialty is molecular medicine and imaging at Alegent Creighton Health. Dr. Mehr provided this scenario, which illustrates the need for better communication between physicians – and all members of the health-care teams: Dr. Jones, while seeing a patient, needs to consult with the patient’s other caregivers. Dr. Jones places a call to the patient’s oncologist, whose assistant answers. “‘Do you want me to interrupt?’ If you say ‘yes,’ you feel an obligation to be quick because you’ve interrupted. If you say ‘no,’ he’s either not there or you have to wait to hear back.” All that is eliminated with Link the Docs, Dr. Mehr said. With an idea to improve physician-to-physician communication, Dr. Nordquist found himself in a conversation with Gordon Whitten, a former chief executive officer of Sojern and of Income Dynamics Inc., creator of “ItsDeductible” software, which provides guidance for correctly valuing, according to IRS guidelines, for household goods donated to charity. The Hastings College graduate took Dr. Nordquist’s idea and made it work. Dr. Nordquist explained what he believes are the benefits of voice-to-voice communication over other methods: Email, which can be sent to multiple recipients. “But you have to know all of their addresses and be efficient at typing. Also often the message is lost in the translation – in the tone of the message.” Text, which relies on having telephone numbers stored in one’s phone. “You need to use your thumbs. I have big thumbs.”
“Voice messaging is efficient. You don’t lose anything in the translation.” The key to his app was creating the ability to send secure voice messages to multiple preloaded sources, Dr. Nordquist said, rather than the traditional one-at-a-time approach. The question was how to make it work for physicians. “Then I can make it work for other professions.” He noted that physicians sometimes become frustrated because dealing with technology can be cumbersome and time-consuming. “Physicians are experiencing EHR/device fatigue. Too many passwords and electronic programs are overwhelming physicians. “ Here’s Dr. Nordquist’s pledge for physicians considering using Link the Docs: “This tool is simple. You can learn how to use 99 percent of it in under one minute. We avoided adding lots of bells and whistles. We didn’t want to make it too complicated.” Dr. Nordquist may have a vested interest, but states that the app does work – and well. Example No. 1: After noticing that a patient was experiencing an irregular heartbeat, he sent a message to the patient’s primary care physician and cardiologist. They responded within minutes, while Dr. Nordquist was still with the patient. “I didn’t have to know their phone numbers.” Example No. 2: He was visiting with a patient, who had stopped taking her medicine for diabetes after seeing a commercial on television about the product. Dr. Nordquist used Link the Docs to leave a message for her primary care physician. The physician responded while the patient was still in the
24 Physicians Bulletin March/April 2014
examination room, and extended his thanks for the heads up. Dr. Nordquist and Whitten established three criteria for the app: • It had to be quick and efficient. “Nothing is more efficient than voice messaging.” • It had to be secure. Messages must be encrypted. The app is evaluated every six months to ensure it remains HIPAA compliant. • It had to appeal to the critical mass. This starts with identifying the three or four physicians a user talks with each day – and extends throughout the healthcare continuum. The app can be used by iPhones, iPads and Android systems, and is available through the App Store. Dr. Nordquist said he and Whitten realize that the key to wide use for the app won’t come from marketing to physicians. Widespread use will come from health-care institutions purchasing the app for their physicians. Dr. Morton, who said he uses Link the Docs daily, had one request for the app: adding the ability to share patient data with other users. “I’m sure Luke is working on that.”
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March/April 2014 Physicians Bulletin 25
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The Dunlay File Hometown: Iowa Falls, Iowa Medical degree: Creighton University School of Medicine Residency: CUMC in internal medicine Fellowship: Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center in Oklahoma City in nephrology and Jewish Hospital at Washington University Medical Center in St. Louis in nephrology. Title: Dean, Creighton University School of Medicine Family: Wife, Kathy; children, Ryan, Drew and Mary Why I joined MOMS: “Physician advocacy groups can do a lot for patients and for health care if they are organized in the proper way – and MOMS is.”
He Found the Right Combination
C
REIGHTON UNIVERSITY’S NEW DEAN of its School
of Medicine firmly believes that medicine and spirituality do mix. “I’ve said this to rooms full of (medical school) interviewees: If you are a thoughtful person and you believe in God, then medicine is a tremendous growth experience,” said Robert “Bo” Dunlay, M.D., who was named
26 Physicians Bulletin March/April 2014
dean in December. “You see people at the best times and worst time. It is a tremendous time for spiritual and personal growth.” And Dr. Dunlay is the right person to lead Creighton University in its partnership with Alegent Creighton Health/Catholic Health Initiatives, according to Edward O’Connor, Ph.D., Creighton University provost. “His
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Give your patients the opportunity to benefit from everything we can offer as the largest independent QOPI-certified cancer practice in Nebraska. Refer them to Nebraska Cancer Specialists today. March/April 2014 Physicians Bulletin 27
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For more information on our Strategic Partners visit www.omahamedical.com 28 Physicians Bulletin March/April 2014
vision and energy have been instrumental to the positive direction of the school, faculty and students, as well as the care for our patients.” Each stop during his professional career has provided an opportunity for growth, Dr. Dunlay said, starting with his undergraduate days at Creighton. An Iowa native, Dr. Dunlay said he considered Creighton and the University of Iowa. In the end, he chose Creighton because he wanted to attend a comprehensive Catholic university. He also chose pre-medicine, although he considered education for a time. “I get to be a physician and I get to teach.” Dr. Dunlay said he went through the same thought process for medical school – Creighton and Iowa. He was accepted to both, and chose to remain in Omaha. He then remained at Creighton for his residency and internship, choosing internal medicine. “I still didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life from medical school and internal medicine seemed like a good fit.” His studies, however, were interrupted by a two-year stint in the U.S. Navy, spending much of the time on an aircraft carrier. His general medical officer experience impacted his life, he recalled. “The Navy is a great school for studying leadership of all sorts. I remember experiencing a tremendous sense of camaraderie that carried you through hardship.” Dr. Dunlay decided to forego a military career because he knew he would want to have a family – and the constant moves would be a challenge. He returned to Omaha to finish his training. Then, looked for fellowships because he knew he “needed to get research experience at a top-notch institution while still figuring out what I wanted to do.” First stop: Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center in Oklahoma City. Second stop: Jewish Hospital at Washington University Medical Center in St. Louis. “I had the most wonderful chief in St. Louis, (Dr.) Keith Hruska, who is also a Creighton medical school grad. He came to my house and sat with my wife the first night I left for Desert Storm. He made sure everything worked out for both of us. He was a wonderful example of leadership.” Next stop was Rapid City, S.D., where he worked in private practice for several years. “I needed to pay off student loans.” The bonus, Dr. Dunlay said, was the people he and his wife, Kathy, came to know in South Dakota. Having grown up in small towns in Iowa, he said, meant living in South Dakota was not a culture shock. Creighton came calling in the early 1990s, recruiting the family back to Omaha, where Dr. Dunlay returned to first serve as an assistant professor of medicine in the Department of Medicine’s renal division. He later added a secondary appointment in the Department of Pharmacology. Over the years he has served as residency program director, nephrology division chief, medical director DCI, associate chair for education and M4 selective coordinator. In 2006, he was named assistant dean for clinical affairs. He had served as the School of Medicine’s interim dean since January 2013. “Dr. Dunlay emerged as the strongest candidate to lead us into the future and expand our opportunities with Alegent Creighton Health and CHI,” said Gail Jensen, Ph.D., dean of the Graduate School and University College and search committee chair. “We are fortunate to have Dr. Dunlay as he is unafraid of challenge, has the respect of all stakeholder groups and provides skilled, mission-centered leadership.” During his time at Creighton, he earned an MBA from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. Although the program was entirely online – and Dr. Dunlay first stepped on campus when he attended his graduation – the learning experience was rich. “Only 25 percent were physicians and most were in other lines of business. The discussion threads were fascinating.” Dr. Dunlay said he’s blessed to be at Creighton. Its Jesuit mission provides a role model for his professional and personal growth. “It’s a unique
feature
place that provides an opportunity for personal spiritual growth as part of your occupation.” The “interim” tag is gone, and Dr. Dunlay said he is focused on strengthening the School of Medicine’s position in the university and the region. He described items of focus – “the three things I think about every day:” • Curriculum revision to ensure “that our curriculum adequately reflects our Jesuit Catholic mission.” Future students will take academic tracks that focus on Christian spirituality, global medicine and medical humanities.
•
•
Creighton’s new academic medical center, which will be comprised of two campuses. Its outpatient center, which is still in the planning phase, will be situated near campus and include a focus on wellness, while inpatient and trauma will move from Creighton University Medical Center to a new Creighton campus at the current Bergan Mercy Medical Center in Midtown Omaha. Recruiting scientists who will work in Creighton’s Centers of Excellence, which will focus on chronic disease.
METRO OMAHA MEDICAL SOCIETY
HOME BUILDING EVENT - MAY 8-10 It’s much more than swinging a hammer and building homes . . . it’s about coming together and making a difference. MOMS invites member physicians and their families to volunteer. No previous construction experience necessary. There are jobs for all skill levels (painting, landscaping, drywall, etc.) Shifts start at 8:30 a.m. and Noon. Lunch and beverages provided.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Visit www.OmahaMedical.com Make a Difference, Take Action & Volunteer!
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March/April 2014 Physicians Bulletin 29
MOMS events WOMEN IN MEDICINE
Donning their paint brushes and aprons, MOMS Women in Medicine group convened Feb. 18 at Uncorked for an evening of wine and painting. The evening included a two-hour guided painting experience and everyone went home with her own original artwork. 1. Creating their skies are (left to right) Drs. Nicole Pearsall, Jennifer Uggen and Lindsay Northam, Women in Medicine chair. 2. Drs. Linda Ford (left) and Deb Esser enjoy the company as much as the painting. 3. Displaying their individual works of art. MALPRACTICE RISK MANAGEMENT EXPERT PANEL DISCUSSION
To assist MOMS member physicians in managing malpractice risk factors, the MOMS Young Physicians Group hosted an expert panel discussion on the topic and invited all members to join them. The event, hosted in the MOMS boardroom on Feb. 25, featured a representative from COPIC and two local malpractice litigators with a combined 40 years of experience. 4. Litigators Daniel Fischer of Koley Jessen (left) and Mark Christensen of Cline Williams Smith Wright & Oldfather collaborate before presenting on the expert panel. 5. Dr. Daniel Rosenquist, representing COPIC, presents a case study for discussion. 6. Participating in the discussion were (in back, from left) Drs. Peter Whitted, Jason Lambrecht, Tyler Willson, Lakeisha Cox; (middle ground) Peter Silberstein, Pat Chudomelka and (foreground) Travis Teetor.
30 Physicians Bulletin March/April 2014
1
2
3
COMING events 4
Coming Events
5
OSHA SEMINAR APRIL 10 12:30-4:00 PM Gain valuable information regarding OSHA regulations, inspections and compliance presented by Douglas Fletcher, CIH, CSP, of the National Safety Council, Nebraska
DOCBUILD HABITAT FOR HUMANITY EVENT MAY 8-10
6
Member physicians and their families are invited to roll up their sleeves, grab some tools and get involved with the MOMS DocBuild event. Work could include framing, drywall, painting, installations, landscaping and more. No previous building experience required. Working alongside members will be representatives from MOMS Strategic Partner organization Sign up at www.omahamedical.com and make a difference.
RETIRED PHYSICIANS MEETING MAY 21 10:00 A.M. Mark your calendar and watch for more information.
March/April 2014 Physicians Bulletin 31
Application for Membership This application serves as my request for membership in the Metro Omaha Medical Society (MOMS) and the Nebraska Medical Association (NMA). I hereby consent and authorize MOMS to use my application information that has been provided to the MOMS credentialing program, referred to as the Nebraska Credentials Verification Organization (NCVO), in order to complete the MOMS membership process.
Personal Information Last Name: _____________________________ First Name: _______________________ Middle Initial: ______ Birthdate: _________________________________________________ Gender: Male or Female Clinic/Group: __________________________________________________________________________________ Office Address: ________________________________________________________________ Zip: __________ Office Phone: ____________________ Office Fax: ___________________ Email: _________________________ Office Manager: _______________________________________ Office Mgr. Email: ________________________ Home Address: ____________________________________________________ Zip: ________________________ Home Phone: __________________________________________ Name of Spouse: ________________________ Preferred Mailing Address: Annual Dues Invoice: Event Notices & Bulletin Magazine:
Office
Home Other: __________________________________
Office
Home Other: __________________________________
Educational and Professional Information Medical School Graduated From: __________________________________________________________________ Medical School Graduation Date: ____________________ Official Medical Degree: (MD, DO, MBBS, etc.) _______ Residency Location: _____________________________________________ Inclusive Dates: _________________ Fellowship Location: _____________________________________________ Inclusive Dates: _________________ Primary Specialty: ______________________________________________________________________________
Membership Eligibility Questions YES
NO
(If you answer “Yes” to any of these questions, please attach a letter giving full details for each.)
Have you ever been convicted of a fraud or felony?
Have you ever been the subject of any disciplinary action by any medical society, hospital medical staff or a State Board of Medical Examiners? Has any action, in any jurisdiction, ever been taken regarding your license to practice medicine? (Including revocation, suspension, limitation, probation or any other imposed sanctions or conditions.) Have judgments been made or settlements required in professional liability cases against you?
I certify that the information provided in this application is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge.
_____________________________________
Signature
___________ Date
B
Fax Application to: 402-393-3216
32 Physicians Bulletin March/April 2014
Mail Application to: Metro Omaha Medical Society 7906 Davenport Street Omaha, NE 68114
Apply Online: www.omahamedical.com
NEW MEMBER update
David C. Buck, M.D.
John W. Brady, M.D.
Erin C. Bundren, M.D.
Medical School: University of Washington
Medical School: University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine
Medical School: Saint Louis University School of Medicine
Residency in Orthopedic Surgery: University of Nebraska Medical Center/ Creighton University Medical Center Combined Program Specialty: Orthopedic Surgery/Sports Medicine Location: Heartland Orthopedic Specialists
Dr. Buck has been in practice as an orthopedic surgeon in Fremont and Blair since 2007, and recently expanded his practice to include an office in Elkhorn, performing surgery at Alegent Creighton Health Lakeside Hospital and the Lakeside Surgery Center. His practice focuses on sports medicine in adults and children, work-related injuries, and general orthopedic surgery. In addition, he has served as the team physician for local area high school and college sports teams. He likes to spend time with his wife, Lori Brunner-Buck, M.D., and their two boys. His sons are active in school and sports in Elkhorn, and he has enjoyed coaching them during the past several years. As a family, they love heading to Lake Okoboji for boating, fishing, swimming and general relaxed family time. He also enjoys photography, sports and continued martial arts training that started at age 10.
Residency in Gastroenterology/Hepatology: University of Nebraska Medical Center
Residency in Family Medicine: Malcolm Grow USAF Medical Center – Andrews Air Force Base
Specialty: Gastroenterology
Specialty: Family Medicine
Location: Midwest Gastrointestinal Associates, PC
Location: Primary Care Physicians, LLP
Dr. Brady has played the great highland bagpipes for 17 years. Since October 2012, he has been the Pipe Major of the Omaha Pipes and Drums, a nonprofit organization that performs and offers free lessons in piping and drumming.
Dr. Bundren grew up in St. Louis. Dr. Bundren is interested in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad spectrum of gastroenterological disorders. She is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology, the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and the American Gastroenterological Association. After moving around the Midwest for training, Dr. Bundren and her husband chose to settle in Omaha. During her free time, she enjoys watching Cardinals baseball and playing outdoors with her golden retriever, Jackson.
Interested in becoming a MOMS Member? Call 402-393-1415, apply online at www.OmahaMedical.com or complete the application on page 32.
March/April 2014 Physicians Bulletin 33
FINANCIAL EXPERTISE FOR THE HEALTH CARE INDUSTRY. To speak with a dedicated specialist from our Health Care Banking Division call Ed Finan at 402-399-5028.
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34 Physicians Bulletin March/April 2014
Thomas B. Whittle, M.D. Vascular Surgeon
NEW MEMBER update
Rebecca A. Ehlers, M.D. Medical School: University of Nebraska College of Medicine Residency in Gastroenterology/ Hepatology: University of Nebraska Medical Center Specialty: Gastroenterology Location: Midwest Gastrointestinal Associates, PC
Dr. Ehlers was born and raised in Kearney, Neb. Dr. Ehlers is interested in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad spectrum of gastrointestinal and hepatic disorders with particular interest in the diagnosis and management of inflammatory bowel disease. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and family, traveling, watching movies and attending Nebraska football games.
Scott A. Haughawout, D.O. Medical School: Kansas City University of Medicine and Bioscience Residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center-Parkland Specialty: Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Location: Nebraska Spine Center
Dr. Haughawout enjoys outdoor activities, including being active in Boy Scouts with his three boys. He, his wife, Natalie, and children, Adam, Sarah, Jacob and Ethan, are planning a week-long scout training, hiking and camping trip at Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, N. Mex. this summer. One of his most memorable experiences was a similar high adventure trip to the Northern Tier Boy Scout Outpost in Bissett, Manitoba, Canada, with his scout troop as a youth, which has been the subject in many “bedtime stories” with his children. He has been involved with the Elkhorn Baseball Association the past three years by sponsoring both of the teams his boys play for, as well as coaching his younger boys’ team. He plans a busy and hectic spring and early summer, but believes it is very much worth the commitment – especially now that his boys know which direction to run around the bases.
Debra J. Tomek, M.D.
Mark A. Wiles, M.D.
Medical School: University of Nebraska School of Medicine
Medical School: University of Kansas School of Medicine
Residency in Pediatrics: Geisinger Medical Center – Danville, Pa.
Residency in Family Medicine: Smoky Hill Family Medicine Residency Program
General Pediatrics Academic Fellowship: University of Nebraska Medical Center
Specialty: Family Medicine/Hospice and Palliative Medicine
Specialty: Pediatrics
Location: Medical Director, Immanuel Pathways PACE – Iowa and Nebraska
Location: Medical Director, Children’s Physicians Medical Advisor, School Based Health Centers, Building Healthy Futures
Dr. Tomek obtained her engineering degree from the University of Iowa before pursuing medical school. She and her husband, Chuck, have four children. She is a baseball fanatic and enjoys watching her son play in Legion baseball, traveling to spring training and watching College World Series games. She and her husband even renewed their wedding vows at Fenway Park. Dr. Tomek is also a bicycling enthusiast. In 2013, she completed the “Ride to Cure Diabetes” in Lake Tahoe benefitting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. She and her husband are involved in medical missions to a South Sudan clinic through the “Healing Kadi” foundation and help support its plans to build and operate a 75-bed hospital next to the clinic site. Her favorite pastimes are spending time with her family and traveling to see her daughters in California, Texas and Missouri.
Dr. Wiles enjoys spending time with his wife, Ashley, and their two girls, Annabella and Amelia. As a former college football and track athlete, he enjoys athletic activities with the whole family. They enjoy watching KU basketball and college football, while growing to appreciate local, Nebraska, Iowa and Creighton team sports.
March/April 2014 Physicians Bulletin 35
c are in the comfort of
MEMBER benefits
Companion Care Skilled Home Care Infusion Therapy Home Health Technology Hospice and Palliative Care
402-342-5566
Did You Know? MOMS Members Receive Special Savings on AAA Membership
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SAVE 15% on AAA membership This savings applies to MOMS member physicians, their staff and family members, and applies to the renewal of current AAA membership as well as new AAA memberships. In addition, the initiation fee for new AAA members is waived. AAA membership serves as a passport to dozens of helpful benefits, services and discounts, including roadside assistance, travel, auto touring, insurance and more. To receive your MOMS Member Savings, contact Matt Thompson at (402) 390-1000, ext. 289, or mdthompson@aaane.com, or stop by the Clocktower office at 815 N. 96th St. in Omaha.
36 Physicians Bulletin March/April 2014
MEMBER news
K
Dr. Caverzagie’s
Dr. Gigantelli
new role to focus on educational strategy
named to ACS Board
ELLY CAVERZAGIE, M.D., ASSOCIATE vice chair for quality and phy-
sician competence in the UNMC Department of Internal Medicine, has been appointed to the new position of associate dean for educational strategy for the College of Medicine. “Dr. Caverzagie has been very active nationally in medical education,” said Gernald Moore, M.D., senior associate dean for academic affairs. “He will lead UNMC’s efforts in implementing various new strategies to allow us to better educate the physicians of tomorrow and make them successful.” He currently serves as education liaison for the leadership group for OneTeam, the new clinical enterprise initiative, which focuses on the role of education in medicine and involves the College of Medicine, The Nebraska Medical Center, UNMC Physicians and the Bellevue Medical Center. Dr. Caverzagie, who works clinically as a hospitalist, obtained his medical degree from UNMC in 2001 and served as chief resident during his internal medicine residency at UNMC. He earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Following his residency, Dr. Caverzagie completed a two-year ClinicianEducator Fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania, focusing on selfassessment among trainees. “I’m excited to be given this new opportunity,” he said. “It’s important that the College of Medicine stay current with national trends, anticipate appropriate changes in the educational landscape and identify opportunities for innovation and growth.” An expert in the assessment and evaluation of learners, Dr. Caverzagie has been a national leader in internal medicine’s implementation of the Next Accreditation System and also collaborates with leaders worldwide in topics regarding medical education redesign. As a teacher, Dr. Caverzagie enjoys assisting students and residents in complex decision-making and communication skills, as well as teaching about topics such as health care policy, education reform and the hidden curriculum. He has served in a variety of roles for the Alliance for Academic Internal Medicine (AAIM), the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM), the Society of Hospital Medicine (SHM) and the American Medical Association (AMA).
J
AMES GIGANTELLI, M.D., PROFESSOR of ophthalmology and assistant
dean of government relations for UNMC, was elected a new member of the Board of Regents of the American College of Surgeons (ACS). An ACS Fellow since 1999, Dr. Gigantelli served on the ACS Board of Governors from 2005 to 2011 and on the Governors’ Committee on Socioeconomic Issues from 2008 to 2011. Before coming to UNMC, Dr. Gigantelli served as director of ophthalmic plastic surgery for the Dean McGee Eye Institute and University of Oklahoma Center for Healthy Living. He received his medical degree from Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn., and completed his residency at Baylor College of Medicine. His fellowship was with Duke University Eye Center. He is a council member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, and a member of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology and the Nebraska Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons. Founded in 1913, the ACS is a scientific and educational association of surgeons committed to improving the quality of care for patients undergoing surgery by setting high standards for surgical education and practice. The ACS currently has approximately 78,000 members, making it the largest organization of surgeons in the world.
March/April 2014 Physicians Bulletin 37
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Selecting a builder is as much an expression of taste as it is a statement of confidence. No one understands this better than Curt Hofer & Associates. As one of the area’s most respected custom homebuilders, we provide a one-of-a-kind experience in creating your once-in-a-lifetime home. Your wants, your needs, your style, your preferences – everything we do at Curt Hofer & Associates is advanced with the thought of you in mind. That means spending time with you, from the very beginning and at every step along the way. From individual rooms, to how these rooms come together to create a home, to the landscape and exteriors that immediately bid you welcome, the team at Curt Hofer & Associates knows how to bring the best ideas to life – yours. The result? Your home...your builder. Exceptional.
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38 Physicians Bulletin March/April 2014
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