Sansum Clinic Good Health, Issue 30, Fall 2022

ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY | GESTATIONAL DIABETES | NUCLEAR MEDICINE

ISSUE #30 FALL 2022

GOODHEALTH

™

www.sansumclinic.org

Ron and Sally Burns

a gift for THE FUTURE

ridley-tree cancer center

celebrates 5 years page 6

page 12

tips for improved digestion page 23

COMPREHENSIVE EYE CARE page 20

a healthcare journal from

Content Cover Sally Burns, Campbell Keith, granddaughter, David Burns, son, Lorelei Ehrlinger, granddaughter, Eloise Burns, granddaughter, Eliza Ehrlinger, daughter, Andrew Burns, grandson, Mollie Keith, daughter, P.K. Keith, grandson, Ron Burns.

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8

Grateful Sansum Clinic Orthopedics patient, Josh Conviser, shares his recovery journey.

One patient’s story about a condition affecting more women.

There is Only Forward

Gestational Diabetes

Occaepudae et autatquis pa inctas natem con eum qui bla voluptatum.

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Departments 4

Advance Practice Providers

Enhancing access to quality care

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Any Given Day

A glimpse into our operation

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Nuclear Medicine

Champion doctors

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In the Community

Awards and recognition Five years of Ridley-Tree Cancer Center A tribute to Lady Leslie Ridley-Tree

Issue 30 Fall 2022 A free publication from Sansum Clinic published twice a year

Sansum Clinic’s mission is to provide an excellent healthcare experience, recognizing our first priority is the patients we serve.

Kurt N. Ransohoff, MD, FACP Chief Executive Officer and Chief Medical Officer

Contributing Writers Kristen Adams, Youngmi An, Jill Fonte, Dru A. Hartley, Nicole Young

Chad Hine, MBA Chief Operating Officer

Contributing Photographers Nik Blaskovich, Nicole Young

Sansum Clinic Corporate Office 470 South Patterson Avenue Santa Barbara, CA 93111 805-681-7700 www.SansumClinic.org

If you would like to make a gift to Sansum Clinic, please contact Dru A. Hartley, Director of Philanthropy at 805-681-7726, or dhartley@sansumclinic.org.

Editor Jill Fonte, Director of Marketing/ Public Information Officer

All gifts are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Tax ID #: 956419205

If you would like to be removed from our mailing list, please send an email with your full name and address to donotmail@sansumclinic.org.

Design by Idea Engineering

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Ophthalmology

Complete eye care

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Scholarships

Enrichment and education

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Improved Digestion

Start with the basics

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Radiation Oncology

Clinical trials

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Medical Staff

Welcome new providers

Features

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Camp Wheez 45 years of asthma education

New MyChart Features Self-scheduling of flu shots

(Visits > Schedule an appointment, choose Flu Shot)

Dear Patients,

Here at Sansum Clinic, our team of 250 physicians and advance practice providers and 1,215 staff are focused on caring for the 123,327 individual patients who trust us with their healthcare. We take pride in being your first point of contact for all health concerns — from primary care to the advanced treatments offered at our more than 30 specialty departments including Ridley-Tree Cancer Center and Foothill Surgery Center. Despite the challenges that surfaced throughout the past few years, it has been incredibly gratifying to serve our community. From adding virtual care options to the evolution of COVID-19 testing, vaccines and treatments, our innovative approach is entirely focused on providing high-value healthcare to Santa Barbara County.

In this issue of Good Health, you will learn about the myriad ways in which people — independently and in teams — can impact the healthcare experience of patients in our community. We recently expanded access to our OB/GYN providers to accommodate 500 additional appointments for pregnant patients that needed to transfer their care due to an outside obstetrician closing her practice on short notice. Many thanks to the hundreds of patients with non-urgent healthcare needs who were willing to adjust their appointments to ensure these patients were seen right away. See page 8 to learn more about the kind of care and teamwork offered to our pregnant patients.

Our cover story highlights the Burns family, who embody the spirit of giving back. It is truly inspiring to see how one family’s vision can contribute to the level of healthcare available in our community. I think you’ll enjoy reading about the personal significance of the 1971 Long Wheelbase Land Rover the family is featured with on the cover.

You’ll read about the 5th Anniversary of the opening of Ridley-Tree Cancer Center, which we are so proud to have created for our community in partnership with the Cancer Foundation of Santa Barbara. We share some of the recent advancements in oncology care on page 24.

Set up payment plans online

Remember the saying ‘The more things change, the more they stay the same?’ This certainly applies to our annual reminders to get your flu shot, schedule your annual physical, and calendar the cancer screenings suggested for your age group; and now for good measure, I’m adding a recommendation to get your updated COVID-19 booster shot. It’s easiest to schedule many of these appointments online in MyChart. For a glimpse into all that can happen on any given day at Sansum Clinic, check out our timeline on page 16.

I want to extend my appreciation to each and every one of you for choosing Sansum Clinic for your healthcare, for supporting us philanthropically and for cheering us on. Your support provides the inspiration and the motivation for the work we do, and is invaluable beyond words.

Sincerely,

Kurt N. Ransohoff, MD, FACP, CEO and Chief Medical Officer

Fall 2022 · GoodHealth

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THERE IS ONLY FORWARD Pushing beyond what is possible

By JOSH CONVISER

i felt strong. deep into a high-intensity interval training (hiit) workout at the gym and keeping up. burpees, muscle-ups, then sprints. I pushed off - and SNAP - like the crack of a bullwhip. Pain ripped through my calf, and I crumpled.

A hazy trip to Sansum Clinic Urgent Care followed. Even as the first signs of COVID stretched the staff thin, the wait was minimal, and the diagnosis quick. My Achilles Tendon, which attaches the calf to the ankle, had ruptured.

I looked up at the guy next to me. “You heard that, right?”

A deep breath and I looked down — ready for the worst — but my leg seemed okay. Maybe the calf was a little funky — bunched up around the back of my knee — but the pain had vanished.

I left with a boot, crutches, and decisions to make. As luck would have it, I happened to be dining with Dr. Hod Dunbar that evening. As we sat, I watched Hod analyze the origami creation the waitstaff had made of our napkins. As others chatted, Hod methodically unfolded his napkin and then refolded it perfectly. My wife and I looked at each other and had the same thought.

I stood, wabbling with adrenaline, and took a step. On my way back to the floor, I realized my calf no longer worked.

A couple of days later, I hobbled into the Sansum Clinic’s Foothill Surgery Center, and Hod sowed my tendon back together. As

“The whole gym did,” he mumbled, saucer-eyed.

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Fall 2022 · GoodHealth

in my mind: there is only forward. Each day, each step, there was only the next and the next.

And finally, last October, Jeb and I stood at the top of the Grand Canyon and took that first step. That began forty-four miles down the South Rim, up the North, and back again. It was horrible, wonderful, magical, and — at times — sublime.

And that was just the beginning. I went on to run Santa Barbara’s Nine Trails ultra in March. And, this past August, I had the opportunity to participate in one of the most iconic races in the world. a life-long athlete, I’ve had more than a few surgeries. This was my easiest, most professional and caring experience to date. I’ll pass on a repeat visit, but there are no doctors, nurses, staff or centers that I would recommend more highly.

Getting home, the full measure of what it would take to recover settled in. For my other injuries, rehab was about getting back out and pushing through. Not so for this one. This was all about time.

For nearly two months, I couldn’t put any weight on my leg. I got very good on crutches — pushing further and further until I could do laps on the hill behind my house. I also picked up what I can only describe as a peg-leg so I could manage stairs and hit the grocery store.

Still, motivation was hard to find. And then Jeb called. Since high school, we have adventured around the country, and I needed a goal — something to train for. We dove into our bucket list and decided to run the Grand Canyon, from Rim to Rim and back again.

Honestly, it felt more like a dream than an attainable goal — I still couldn’t take a single step. But the dream pulled me along. One step became two, then ten, then more. And slowly I could walk again. Frustration gave way to acceptance, and a mantra bubbled up

I didn’t just get hurt and

recover. I got hurt, and then Hod and the Sansum team got me to a place where I

could push beyond what I thought possible.”

— josh conviser

As a life-long athlete,

I’ve had more than a few

surgeries. This was my easiest, most professional and caring experience to date.”

— josh conviser, grateful patient

The UTMB/CCC starts in Courmayeur, Italy, and spans 100 kilometers around Mont Blanc to finish in Chamonix, France. The forty thousand feet of crushing ups and steep descents took me through some of the most beautiful country on the planet, and way past my limit. It was straight twenty-six hours of both agony and inspiration.

And to experience all that, just a couple of years after I came into Sansum unable to walk, was a true gift.

I didn’t just get hurt and recover. I got hurt, and then Dr. Dunbar and the Sansum team got me to a place where I could push beyond what I thought possible. I came back better than I was.

There is only forward.

To schedule an appointment with Sansum Clinic’s Orthopedics Department, please call (805) 681-7584.

Fall 2022 · GoodHealth

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Enhancing Care

Advance Practice Providers nurse practitioners and physician assistants

Kara Jones, NP, Cardiology what do you love about your field?

I think that being a nurse practitioner offers me opportunities to get to know my patients and truly understand their needs. Our patients are encouraged to articulate their symptoms during our time together. I am able to discuss their concerns and determine the best plan of treatment because we have an in-depth discussion.

their healthcare needs with compassionate support is important to me. On a daily basis, I have opportunities to learn from all the remarkable cardiologists at Sansum Clinic, who are lifelong learners as well as teachers of the latest techniques, which enable us to give our patients the very best care. As someone who continues to learn and be up to date on the latest healthcare methods and procedures, I was drawn to Sansum hoping to collaborate and learn from truly the best providers around.

what drew you to sansum clinic?

One of the things I love most about my job is working with the wonderful staff and patients in our community. Everyone has one goal and purpose and that is to provide the very best care with cutting-edge techniques that only Sansum offers. Being part of a practice that focuses on listening to our patients and addressing

what is the most satisfying thing you can do for patients?

Health issues can be scary, so I love to be there for our patients by supporting and advocating for them, helping them navigate their cardiac issues and then getting to see them get better. That is the most satisfying part of my job.

what are the most common issues you deal with?

My specialty in cardiology is electrophysiology so the most common issues that I deal with are issues of the electrical system of the heart. I work side by side with Dr. Greg Cogert, our electrophysiologist. Together, we care for patients with pacemakers, defibrillators and different arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation.

Dr. Michael Shenoda, Cardiology “The role of advance practice providers over the past decade has evolved dramatically. They’re absolutely invaluable care team members. They serve as a bridge to physicians, if you will. They round with us in the hospital, and then they participate in the daily management of a lot of our patients. When physicians such as myself are in the operating room or in the cath lab for prolonged procedures, the APPs are able to check in on clinic patients, develop a care plan, run it by us and get that patient on their way, rather than having to wait for us to step out of the operating room to see or manage those patients. In addition, a lot of APPs form deep and meaningful relationships with our patients because they’re involved in all aspects of their care. Usually cardiologists see patients at certain intervals whereas the APPs have much more frequent communication with patients. They get a better sense of what’s going on with the patient as a whole, rather than just the independent disease states that we see as specialists.”

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Fall 2022 · GoodHealth

Enhancing Care At Sansum Clinic, Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) work closely with both our physicians and patients to enhance the level of care and attention we provide. APPs are healthcare providers, most commonly nurse practitioners or physician assistants.

While they are not physicians, they do many medical activities typically performed by a doctor. We sat down with some APPs and doctors to hear about the important role APPs play at Sansum Clinic.

Joy Buechler, NP what drew you to orthopedics?

As an athlete and previous water polo player I’ve always been drawn to form, function, mechanics and the cross-over with orthopedics was absolute! Helping our community move their bodies in a way that feels good for them is so gratifying. It was truly one of the easiest decisions! what drew you to sansum clinic?

The list is oh so long — and the remarkable reputation Sansum Clinic has is undeniable. Being part of the Sansum family is a true pleasure and honor. I’m so lucky to work alongside incredible staff and providers. what you do on a daily basis?

My week is split between time in the office seeing patients and assisting in the operating room.

what are the most common issues you deal with?

The most common orthopedic issues I see are related to the shoulder, hip and knee. Often times this is related to sporting injuries such as ACL tears, meniscal tears, rotator cuff tears as well as more degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis. I also commonly see patients for their post-operative visits and procedure appointments such as injections. what is the most satisfying thing you can do for patients?

Teaching my patients how to care for their body and optimize their function to promote overall health and wellness. what can people do to prevent having to see you?

Look at health in all forms — this includes sleep (quality and quantity), physical movement, nutrition, hydration and stress.

If you can optimize these 5 things — your body will thank you! what do you like to do for fun?

I am currently training for the New York City marathon. I have really been enjoying training and learning about adaptations, recovery and sports performance. I enjoy the community events such as Nite Moves and Reef & Run, two summertime community events bringing everything together through ocean swimming, run/walking and live music. Santa Barbara is such a lovely place to be active! A personal goal is to participate in a full Ironman someday!

Dr. Chad Burgoyne, Orthopedics “One of the things I think about when I look to the future is, how will we take care of our burgeoning population of Baby Boomers? We are not going to have enough orthopedic surgeons in the country to do all the joint replacements that will be needed. One of the things we are doing well to manage this at Sansum Clinic is utilizing advance practice providers. We have four here in our orthopedics office that are very skilled at doing key parts of the workup, even though they aren’t surgeons.

That includes patient evaluation, medical history, and diagnostic procedures. When it comes time to do surgery, the APPs also assist us in the operating room, which enables us to provide continuity of care. The APP working with a patient at the beginning of their care, is also there for the surgery and even during recovery. So using APPs to extend our capabilities is something we do meaningfully here now, and that certainly will be a trend throughout the country within the next few years. We have a couple of APPS who have been with us here in orthopedics going on 15 or 20 years. So as far as experience in our field, the number of years they have equals what I have. They’re really good at what they do and just an integral part of our medical staff.”

Fall 2022 · GoodHealth

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Cancer Care

Ridley-Tree Cancer Center Celebrates 5th Anniversary of Ridley-Tree Cancer Center are celebrating = the fifth year serving our community at the state-of-the-art center located at 540 West Pueblo Street in Santa Barbara.

As Santa Barbara’s only comprehensive cancer center, Ridley-Tree Cancer Center opened on September 18, 2017. The team of more than 200 physicians and staff has treated patients across 318,647 visits.

THE LEADERSHIP, PHYSICIANS AND STAFF

Committed to delivering the most advanced cancer treatment on the central coast, Ridley-Tree Cancer Center has become a treasure in our community and a regional destination for many

experiencing a cancer diagnosis. Patients benefit from the latest technology and treatments, and a multidisciplinary care team specialized in numerous areas: medical oncology, hematology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, clinical trials and research, genetic counseling, patient navigation, oncology nutrition, social work and wellness programs. Named in honor of Lady Leslie Ridley-Tree, the center combines all of these programs under one roof.

Ridley-Tree Cancer Center is well known for offering the highest-quality care, on par with academic institutions. Our

We honor the life and contributions of Santa Barbara philanthropist,

Lady Leslie Ridley-Tree who provided the critical support needed to

envision and build our cancer center.

We are immensely grateful for her generosity, and for her dedicated service to our community.

Lady Ridley-Tree was the Honorary Campaign Chair of the

effort to elevate the dream of a new cancer center from vision to reality. She often spoke about the importance of offering

world-class cancer care within our own community, and the

special comfort and healing that brings. Her contribution has allowed every cancer patient in Santa Barbara to access the most comprehensive care, state-of-the-art technology and

research, plus wellness and support programs, right here close to home. The positive impact of this in patients’ lives and the lives of their families, is beyond measure.”

— kurt n. ransohoff, md, facp, ceo and chief medical officer of sansum clinic 6

Fall 2022 · GoodHealth

Clinical Research Department enrolling 385 patients in 57 clinical trials, and our Radiation Oncology Department earning the prestigious ASTRO Accreditation Program for Excellence (APEx) twice, are just two exceptional achievements over the last five years that indicate a superior level of care. The added benefit for patients is care delivered with a compassionate, family-like feel, right here in Santa Barbara.

“We’ve been able to advance the fight against cancer by improving survival and quality of life for thousands of patients.

This is only achieved when high-tech

Cancer Care

meets high-touch care. Ridley-Tree Cancer Center is our community’s answer to this need, all in one extraordinary place, close to home,” commented Matt Baumann, DBA, MBA, Vice President of Oncology.

This 5-year milestone could not have been reached without the Cancer Foundation of Santa Barbara, the leading fundraising and grant making non-profit dedicated to cancer care in Santa Barbara County. Founded on a promise of superior care close to home, the Foundation’s nearly 75-year commitment to their promise made the dream of Ridley-Tree Cancer Center

a reality. In the Campaign for Our New Cancer Center, the Cancer Foundation worked in partnership with Sansum Clinic to raise more than $48 million to build this world-class center. “Today, we are more capable and better equipped to offer advanced cancer care, from education and prevention, to diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship,” remarked Lori Willis, Cancer Foundation of Santa Barbara Executive Director. “We remain committed to elevating the level of care offered to those fighting cancer in our community. I am overwhelmingly grateful for this community’s generosity.”

The number of accomplishments achieved over these past five years is remarkable, especially since so much of this work occurred despite a global pandemic. It is a testament to the vision, persistence and strength of our team of physicians, staff, donors, patients and community partners.

To learn more, visit ridleytreecc.org.

We remain committed

to elevating the level of care offered to those fighting

cancer in our community.”

— lori willis, cancer foundation, of santa barbara, executive director

We’ve been able to

advance the fight against

cancer by improving survival and quality of life for

thousands of patients.”

— matt baumann, dba, mba, vice president of oncology

Fall 2022 · GoodHealth

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OB/GYN Services

Complete Pregnancy Care Addresses Gestational Diabetes expert medical care for women: obstetrics & gynecology and diabetes education

(left to right) Nicole Almanza, RD, CDCES, Meg Parker, son, Paul Hofer, and Meghan Wallman, MD, FACOG

meg parker first learned she had gestational diabetes at her visit with OB/GYN physician Meghan Wallman, MD during her 24th week of pregnancy.

Spiked numbers on her glucose tolerance test identified the need for a closer look, and subsequent tests revealed the diagnosis. This news surprised Meg since neither she nor anyone in her family ever had diabetes. The only possible red flag was perhaps her frequent thirst. ”Naturally it felt a bit alarming at first.

I wondered if this condition could have been prevented, but I learned that I had done nothing wrong, and that we could manage it,” says the 35 year-old.

Gestational diabetes does not generally cause noticeable signs other than weight change, fatigue, excessive thirst or morefrequent urination. Symptoms usually dissipate after delivery. Dr. Wallman tests all of her patients for gestational diabetes

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Fall 2022 · GoodHealth

between their 24th and 28th week of pregnancy, following a recommendation from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) because the symptoms marking this type of diabetes are quite common.

Gestational diabetes occurs when hormones from a woman’s placenta decrease her response to insulin. Women who are African American, American Indian, Asian American, Hispanic or Latino, or Pacific Islander are at a higher risk. Women who have diabetes, prediabetes, a family history of diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS,) are overweight, are inactive, over age 35, or have previously delivered a baby over 9 pounds are also at a higher risk for gestational diabetes. Left unchecked, the condition can increase the risk of hypertension, preeclampsia and type 2

diabetes. It can also increase the possibility of a C-section delivery, yet most women with the condition are able to deliver their babies vaginally. The growing infant can be affected as well, since the condition can elevate the risk of breathing problems, obesity, premature birth and type 2 diabetes. There is also a risk of stillbirth in women whose gestational diabetes is poorly-controlled. For this reason, Dr. Wallman will sometimes recommend additional ultrasounds or antenatal testing close to the due date to monitor the wellbeing of the baby.

A study published this summer by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed gestational diabetes in pregnant women is on the rise, with cases increasing 30% between 2016 and 2020. Some obstetricians link the sharp increase during COVID-19 to

OB/GYN people’s more sedentary lifestyle, and added physical and emotional stress. “I agree this could be a factor,” remarks Dr. Wallman. “While we do not know exactly why some women get gestational diabetes and some don’t, being pregnant early in the pandemic was scary and stressful for many women. Many of my patients started working from home or were not able to exercise the same way as before.”

OB/GYN Physician Assistant Heather Merrick explained to Meg how this condition might impact the rest of her pregnancy. Heather regularly encourages those with gestational diabetes to first try diet and lifestyle changes to regulate insulin levels before medications or injections are considered. The OB/GYN staff connects patients to Sansum Clinic’s diabetes education team right away, and to Clinic endocrinologists when needed.

“We know this can be difficult for patients to navigate and we have limited time to get control of it, so having a plan in place early is helpful,” comments Dr. Wallman. Heather invited Meg to join Sansum Clinic’s health education class for those with gestational diabetes. The expectant mother began using a home glucose monitor to test her blood sugar after every meal, recording the results on her cell phone. She also attended a virtual class for patients with gestational diabetes led by diabetes educator and dietitian Nicole Almanza, RD, CDCES. In these sessions, Nicole explains what’s happening in the body, and how to test, track and record blood sugar readings from many types of monitors. She offers support on exercise, reading nutrition fact labels and managing diet changes amidst regular pregnancy ailments like nausea and vomiting. Nicole also tailors her recommendations for each patient using guidelines from leading diabetes, nutrition and clinical endocrinology associations. “Every person entering this

program starts with an abundance of information,” describes the educator. “I try and promote a sense of reassurance and calm, and encourage them to reach out if they find themselves struggling.”

Meg’s subsequent one-on-one visits with Nicole taught her to fine-tune her meal plans, and to handle her blood sugar elevations with more confidence. “I thought of myself as someone who eats healthy, but in pregnancy, it’s hard in the first trimester. I felt like I only wanted cereal and mac ‘n’ cheese. What was helpful was understanding that I needed to keep a certain level of protein and carbs per meal,” she explains. Diligent habits led Meg to successfully manage her diabetes and in the end, she delivered a healthy 8 pound, 12 ounce baby boy with her husband, Matt, and Dr. Wallman by her side. “My experience with Dr. Wallman has been extremely positive. She told me exactly what I needed to know and I trust her,” shares the new mother. Meg intends to carry her healthy awareness and good eating habits with her during her maternity leave, and when she returns to her job as an attorney at a small, local law firm where she handles complex employment litigation. “It is good to be mindful in this stage of life,” she admits. Meg’s persistence

paid off, according to Nicole. “Though I am the provider of support and knowledge, it’s the patients who do the hard work, and they amaze me with what they are capable of,” says Nicole. Dr. Wallman and her staff are always working to streamline and improve the relationships between the Clinic departments caring for women with gestational diabetes so everyone shares information and is on the same page. “I am lucky to work with so many amazing people dedicated to helping women have the healthiest pregnancies possible,” concludes the obstetrician. **Sansum Clinic patients who have been diagnosed with gestational diabetes can request information on these free health education. classes from their OB/GYN provider.

Learn more Obstetrics & Gynecology 317 & 515 West Pueblo St. Santa Barbara, CA (805) 681-8911

sansumclinic.org

THE OB/GYN DEPARTMENT HAS EXPANDED ITS ROSTER. Learn more about these new providers on pages 27 and 29.

SERENE ALEXANDER, DO

SARAH B. RASMUSSEN, CNM, NP

Camp Wheez

CELEBRATING 45 YEARS OF CAMP WHEEZ

Congratulations to Dr. Myron Liebhaber on 45 years of Camp Wheez! Dr. Liebhaber has been at the helm of Camp Wheez since its founding in 1978.

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Fall 2022 · GoodHealth

CAMP WHEEZ IS A FREE PROGRAM that gives children with asthma the chance to experience all the fun of a summer camp in a safe environment designed to meet their special needs. Campers also gain the knowledge and skills to confidently manage their asthma so they can lead healthy, active lives. Many children in our community have grown up with Camp Wheez and have gone on to become counselors and supporters. We’re very grateful to Dr. Liebhaber and the many donors, volunteers and community partners who have made Camp Wheez possible for 45 years! sansumclinic.org/camp-wheez

Next year Camp Wheez will be held in August 2023.

See you there!

On August 1, we welcomed 19 campers for a week of fun and asthma learning.

Our 11 volunteer counselors had the important task of managing the campers and guiding them through the week’s activities while ensuring they stayed safe. We could not have asked for a more capable and wonderful group counselors.

Campers participated in Arts & Crafts, Games & Recreation, Cooking Lab, Lung Lab and Lung Class. We also welcomed several special guests to Camp Wheez who shared unique and exciting educational experiences.

Highlights of the week included: • Using a blender bike to make delicious smoothies • Learning how to manage asthma symptoms and properly take asthma medication • Getting soaked playing water games • Exploring how our lungs work by studying real life pig lungs • Creating colorful turtles out of paper plates and tissue paper • Meeting Puku, Athena and Max, owl education ambassadors from Eyes in the Sky

Camp Wheez

Parents and caregivers were invited to join us on the last day of Camp for an Asthma Education Lunch hosted by Dr. Liebhaber. A panel of physicians presented an update on pediatric asthma and answered attendee’s questions.

Thank you to Dr. Jinny Chang, Dr. Victoria Eng and Dr. Luke Noronha for volunteering their time and expertise.

We look forward to Camp Wheez 2023!

The fun, learning and science of Camp Wheez 2022 was made possible by the generous support of many community members and organizations including: VOLUNTEERS • Sansum Clinic Allergy Department • Cottage Health Respiratory Therapy Team • Luke Noronha, MD • Karen Acevedo, RN • Community volunteers and high school students

Dr. Liebhaber with an owl from Eyes in the Sky

DONORS Jim and Peggie Cox Joey Flanagan Memorial Fund Gail M. Grant Karen Johnson, MD Ernest Kolendrianos, MD Myron Liebhaber, MD Larry Rosen Michael and Rania Shenoda Swanton Foundation Karen Thiessen COMMUNITY PARTNERS CenCal Health Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics First Presbyterian Church of Santa Barbara Explore Ecology Food Bank of Santa Barbara County Santa Barbara Audubon Society Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network UCSB Marine Science Institute

Campers exploring sea life in a mobile reef from UCSB

For information about how to support Camp Wheez and other Sansum Clinic programs, please contact: Dru A. Hartley Director of Philanthropy (805) 681-7726 dhartley@sansumclinic.org Fall 2022 · GoodHealth

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A Gift For The

future

Sansum Clinic Legacy Society Members Ron & Sally Burns

(left to right) P.K. Keith, grandson, Mollie Keith, daughter, Eloise Burns, granddaughter, Lorelei Ehrlinger, granddaughter, Eliza Ehrlinger, daughter, Andrew Burns, grandson, David Burns, son, Campbell Keith, granddaughter, Sally Burns, Ron Burns

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Spring Fall 2022 2022 · GoodHealth · GoodHealth

THE GLEAMING 1971 LONG WHEELBASE LAND ROVER that sits in Ron Burns’ driveway is much more than just a collector’s dream. It’s a sentimental reminder of how he met his wife of 52 years, Sally. The couple was first introduced back in 1967 on a Transcontinental Overland Expedition roundtrip from London to India where Ron was the lead driver. A graduate of the University of Michigan, Ron was then enrolled at the London School of Economics and had completed a U.K. to Jordan and Afghanistan adventure on a similar Rover. This time however, instead of a beefy 4x4, Ron, Sally and 16 other passengers rode on a dilapidated bus for the 16,000 mile, three month-long trip, long before the conveniences of GPS or cell phones. On the beaches of Greece, Ron became smitten with Sally and learned that despite her traditional Southern roots, she was no shrinking violet; in fact, she was a steel magnolia. She had left her North Carolina home town to join two friends on the expedition, during which she became a brave and helpful navigator, a role she has cheerfully played for many years for Ron and their family of three children and five grandchildren.

Giving Back When Ron and Sally moved from the East Coast to Santa Barbara ten years ago, they were very fortunate to have Kurt Ransohoff, MD, FACP as their primary care physician. Before that, big city hospitals had provided most of their healthcare, and they were initially cautious about whether the same high quality could be found here in a much smaller community. “It was a real eye opener and a big transition, but suddenly we became surrounded with best in class,” shares Ron. Now in their late 70s, they both greatly appreciate when Dr. Ransohoff is able to connect them to other Sansum Clinic departments like Physical Therapy, and specialists like gastroenterologist Dr. William Hahn, podiatrist Dr. John Rasmussen, orthopedic physician Dr. James Zmolek, and surgeon Dr. Ben Howard. “With MyChart, each doctor can run everything down easily and can be in touch with each other so you are not scrambling,” explains Sally. “I feel now like we are part of a family. The more we need them, the more they are there for us.” Ron has also observed how the physicians rely on the great professionalism and courtesy of the nurses and staff. “They are always very careful, disciplined, and everything is reviewed. Your time is respected. If you need to make changes, no problem,” he notes. “We have a deep emotional connection now with the Clinic, from people at the top to dedicated staff at the front desks.” Access to medical excellence and expertise became even more critical when their son, David required a liver transplant seven years ago. Their entire family was thrown into a stressful, medical whirlwind that began with terrible experiences at 2 regional hospitals out of the area, and ended with a world-famous UCLA surgeon performing a lifesaving transplant.

Ron became David’s relentless medical advocate and caregiver, immersing himself in his son’s diagnosis and care.

Ultimately, David came through his recovery with flying colors, and he is now in the care of Sansum Clinic internal medicine physician Dr. Bryce Holderness and Sansum Clinic nephrologist Dr. William Golgert for regular monitoring.

Ron says the experience was “deathdefying” and left them all forever changed; even more grateful for their son’s life, and committed to making a difference in the lives of others. “I want to use our time in the best possible way, and that means being involved with organizations and people that we care deeply about,” he remarks.

As the former CEO/North America and President of Global Business at advertising agency giant J. Walter Thompson, Ron managed national and international clients and brands for more than 34 years in positions across Australia, Britain, Canada and the United States. When he retired in 2004, he was not content to sit still.

“To quote Oscar de la Renta, ‘When you rest, you rust’,” he announces with a grin. “We should all have relevance.”

Ron has served on non-profit boards for institutions he and Sally have supported throughout their lives, and he’s energized when he can contribute his time and talent, on top of a financial gift. One example of this is how he and his daughter, Mollie helped to found Exceptional Minds, an academy and studio preparing young adults on the autism spectrum for careers in animation, visual effects, 3D gaming and other related entertainment fields. The inspiration came from Ron and Sally’s beloved autistic grandson, P.K. Joining the Legacy Society and committing to include Sansum Clinic in their estate plan was an easy decision for the Burns. When the couple discussed the special connection they had to their medical team, they agreed they needed to do something more. Ron has always been passionate about preserving the best

Ron and Sally Burns

of the present for future generations.

He once transported American master blacksmith Samuel Yellin’s wrought iron entryways from the 1920s offices of J. Walter Thompson to his California home to save the historic art. At this point in their lives, Ron and Sally have more heart-warming and hilarious stories of road trips and shared adventures than they can count. They are now focused on making a difference for their children and grandchildren, and for institutions they believe are dedicated to improving the lives of others. “We are incredibly lucky to be here with our family and our extended family at Sansum Clinic,” shares Ron. “The relationship is hugely important, and we are happy to know that everyone there has our back.” The ability to give in this way brings them tremendous joy, according to Sally. “We are fortunate to be able to share what we have. It is a great feeling.”

If you wish to leave a gift or would like information about the Sansum Clinic Legacy Society, please contact: Dru A. Hartley Director of Philanthropy (805) 681-7726 dhartley@sansumclinic.org.

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How You Can Help Dear Friends, As we pause to celebrate the beginning of Sansum Clinic’s second century of medical excellence on the Central Coast, we are proud of our legacy of compassionate care delivered by highly trained professionals who always put our patients’ needs first.

Resilience, persistence, vision, dedication, commitment and collaboration are values that serve to distinguish Sansum Clinic and our people.

Enduring support from our donors and other community partners have allowed us to expand our expertise and our levels of care in ways we could not have imagined when we opened our doors 101 years ago. We are grateful for the valuable role you and others have played in our growth and success.

Like many other healthcare organizations, locally and nationally, we are struggling to respond to a number of challenges, like rapidly-rising inflation and the great resignation, which have had a dramatic impact on our operations.

While the pandemic is far from over, we are proud of our achievements during this challenging time.

Providing COVID-19 vaccines, caring for patients with active COVID cases — especially among seriously-ill and immunocompromised individuals —and supporting our patients during their return to good health have all been great privileges for us throughout every stage of the pandemic.

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Spring Fall 2022 2022 · GoodHealth · GoodHealth

We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to our Sansum Clinic and Ridley-Tree Cancer Center physicians and staff who rose above the challenges, and the risks to their own personal health, in order to serve others. We are also thankful to those donors who have supported our Pandemic Relief Fund, which has enabled us to protect our patients and medical staff with needed supplies and personal protective equipment, not to mention the extraordinary operational and staffing challenges we have faced in response to the pandemic.

Kurt N. Ransohoff, MD, FACP CEO and Chief Medical Officer Looking ahead, we have a number of new projects underway that we could use your support to help position us for continued success in the future.

We are nearing completion of the expansion of our Foothill Surgery Center from four to six operating rooms to meet the growing demand for outpatient surgery. Our Facial Plastic Surgery Department is moving in January to a new location offering expanded aesthetics services. We are creating a Breast Imaging Center to open mid-2023 to enhance

the experience of the tens of thousands of patients who come to us for breast imaging each year.

Our Sansum Speaks — Women’s Council Speaker Series demonstrates our commitment to providing not only the highest quality healthcare, but also informing and educating our community on important health topics presented by some of our most distinguished healthcare providers.

The recruitment of new physicians and advanced practice providers like nurse practitioners and physician assistants is ongoing and will remain a focus as we continue to expand our services.

Our Palliative Care Program is designed to optimize quality of life for people living with serious illness.

This program aligns patient-support services with a focus on understanding, anticipating, preventing, treating and/or minimizing suffering from a wide variety of diseases. Unfortunately, most of the services included in our Palliative Care Program are not covered by insurance. Your support will help ensure this level of care is available to community members in need.

the generosity of our donors. Your investment can make the critical difference as we plan and prepare to deliver services for the next 100 years.

Your philanthropic support moves us closer to meeting the growing healthcare needs of our community.

Won’t you please consider making a year-end gift to support our efforts?

Thank you for your consideration. To you and yours… happy holidays. We are here to serve you and help you live your healthiest life.

Sincerely,

Kurt N. Ransohoff, MD, FACP CEO and Chief Medical Officer P.S. We are truly thankful for every gift we receive, no matter the amount. If you prefer to give online please visit www.sansumclinic.org/donate-now.

Technology and equipment are always evolving, which means our needs for equipment like CT and MRI scanners, endoscopes and ultrasound machines are constant.

As a nonprofit organization dedicated to healthcare in an era of economic headwinds, our commitment to providing exceptional care relies, increasingly, on Fall 2022 · GoodHealth

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Any Given Day At Sansum Clinic A GLIMP SE INSIDE OUR OPER ATION

6:00 AM

7:00 AM

Fellowship-trained colorectal surgeon Dr. Cristina Harnsberger reviews imaging before scrubbing up to remove her patient’s tumor.

Foothill Surgery Center staff members prep tools and materials in one of 2 new operating rooms for a procedure by orthopedic surgeon Dr. William (Hod) Dunbar.

A gastric bypass surgery patient meets with surgeon Dr. Marc Zerey to create a post-op treatment plan.

8:00 AM 8:00 AM

Urgent Care physician Dr. Nicole Stern examines a teenager’s broken ankle.

8:00 AM

A cardiac patient receives a text reminder about his appointment with cardiologist Dr. Joseph Aragon, and he completes the needed forms online before departing for the visit.

9:00 AM

Nurses welcome the first patients arriving at our COVID-19 vaccine booster & flu shot tent outside our 215 Pesetas Lane location.

An injured Santa Barbara County firefighter gets examined by occupational medicine physician Dr. Cardy Romero.

9:00 AM

10:00 AM

Palliative care physician Dr. Deborah Meyers and nurse practitioner Stefanie Rashti, CRNP meet with a patient and his wife to discuss care goals.

Facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Andrew Beckler performs a rhinoplasty on a patient plagued by chronic sinus issues.

10:00 AM

11:00 AM

A mother makes an appointment with pediatrician Dr. Jerold Black after first using the Clinic’s Online Symptom Checker tool to evaluate her son’s illness.

Pediatrician Dr. Daniel Brennan and allergist Dr. Jinny Chang scrutinize an x-ray showing damage to a teen’s lungs due to vaping.

11:00 AM

11:00 AM

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At Gastroenterology at 317 W. Pueblo Street Adelina Gonzales, RN Manager, helps a patient depart after his colonoscopy.

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We thought you might appreciate a glimpse into one day inside our operation, where more than 250 physicians and advance practice providers trained in more than 50 specialties and service lines alongside a staff of 1,200, offer care to more than 100,000 patients across 23 locations from Carpinteria through Santa Barbara and out to the Santa Ynez Valley.

12:00 PM

12:00 PM

1:00 PM

1:00 PM

2:00 PM

2:00 PM

3:00 PM 3:00 PM

4:00 PM

4:00 PM 5:00 PM

5:00 PM 6:00 PM

Dr. Charmian Dresel-Velasquez, one of the Clinic’s 7 OB/GYN physicians, arrives at Cottage Hospital to deliver a family’s third daughter.

A patient who stopped driving due to cataracts receives a Femto laser treatment from ophthalmologist Dr. Toni Meyers.

A spinal stenosis patient listens to pain management physician Dr. Graham Reimer explain several minimally-invasive treatment options for his back condition.

Infectious disease physician Dr. Mary-Louise Scully takes a close look at a patient’s rash which began during a trip to South America.

Rheumatologist Dr. Susan Lemon rolls a portable ultrasound into a Solvang Country Clinic exam room to evaluate her patient’s symptoms from osteoarthritis.

Breast radiologist Dr. Winnie Leung and Breast Surgical Oncologist Dr. Katrina Mitchell, both fellowship trained in their fields, discuss their patient’s imaging.

Chief information security officer Marc Johnson reads a daily report on our technology networks to ensure their operability and protection of health data.

Dermatologist Dr. Bret Davis examines a growth on a patient’s shoulder to determine if it could be cancerous.

A diabetes patient makes an appointment with physician assistant Rosanna Petronella, PA-C using the Primary Care Direct Scheduling tool within MyChart, and then signs up for a Diabetes Education Class.

Physical Therapist Alyson Sorenson checks the function of a patient’s knee after surgery.

Ophthalmologist Dr. Mark Silverberg joins a call with non-oncology clinical research supervisor Megan Martinez to confer on their current trials.

Participants in a Doctors’ Weight Management class gather with their coach Mariah Smith to goal set and meal plan for the week.

Urgent care physician Dr. Alex Leasure heads out with a team from Doctors Without Walls to offer healthcare to the unsheltered in our city.

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In the Community

GETTING TO THE NUCLEUS OF THE PROBLEM FASTER Champions of Nuclear Medicine As first seen in the Pacific Coast Business Times’ Champions in Healthcare Issue

By Amber Hair, Staff Writer Pacific Coast Business Times

its earlier stages and then take pictures of what’s going on — if a tumor is growing or shrinking, if it’s spreading to other tissues or if it’s still contained in a single area.

Drs. David Carlson and Bill Pace

decades of preparation have gone into making ridley-tree cancer center a leader in the field of nuclear medicine, and Drs. Bill Pace and Dave Carlson are working hard to keep it there.

Nuclear medicine is the use of radioactive materials to diagnose and treat diseases.

At Ridley-Tree, Pace and Carlson are using a new radioactive tracer to find and treat prostate cancer earlier and more effectively.

NUCLEAR MEDICINE By the numbers

9,500+ Total Visits

4,600+ Patients

This takes away a lot of the investigative work that often comes with cancer care.

People with the same diagnoses don’t always respond to the same treatments, which means that doctors and patients often have to work together to find one therapy that will work out of a variety of options.

With Pylarify, Pace said, “We know how the therapy is going to work because we took photos of the chemistry.”

As a result, patients suffer fewer comorbidities and complications. More traditional cancer treatments can often ride the line between curing cancer and causing such taxing side effects that the patient has to stop treatment early.

“We’re hoping to take a quantum leap in both fighting (prostate cancer) and treating it,” Carlson said.

“We’ve been waiting for this moment in nuclear cancer for a long time,” Pace said.

Pylarify was approved by the FDA in 2021, but it still has relatively limited availability.

A therapy like this is usually only offered in large academic centers, which means that if it weren’t available in Santa Barbara, people would have to go to Los Angeles or San Francisco to get the treatment.

With the tracer, Pylarify, the doctors can use low-energy isotopes to detect cancer in

Pace and Carlson are both leaders in their field, and they’ve got the credentials to

20+ Team members

22% Patient volume increase from 2021 to 2022

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They can then use a higher-energy version of the tracer to treat the cancer with monthly injections that deliver more radiation to the cancerous cells and less radiation to the healthier cells.

Fall 2022 · GoodHealth

prove it. Carlson is part of the Society for Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, and he regularly donates time to go back to UC San Francisco, where he received graduate medical education, to teach nuclear medicine to others.

Pace was among the earliest group of doctors to be trained in nuclear medicine at Stanford University, where he had both a residency and a fellowship in nuclear medicine. Both doctors are also certified by the American Board of Nuclear Medicine.

Jill Fonte, the spokeswoman for Sansum Clinic, Ridley-Tree’s parent organization, said their expertise in the field is one of the key factors that sets Ridley-Tree part from cancer centers in other similarly sized communities.

“The doctors’ extensive education and experience in interpreting nuclear medicine studies allow them to notice more subtle abnormalities that might potentially go unnoticed or perhaps missed by less experienced readers and physicians,” Fonte said. “It is a rarity to find two nuclear medicine physicians with these qualifications in a community of this size.”

Both doctors credit Ridley-Tree’s long-term commitment to staying at the forefront of nuclear medicine. The nuclear medicine department has more than 20 people, including doctors, nuclear medicine technicians, nurses and other staff, and it has earned accreditation by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission in the areas of nuclear cardiology, general nuclear medicine and positron emission technology.

“This is not something that pops up overnight,” Pace said.

Awards & Recognition

In the Community

PHYSICIAN OF THE YEAR DR. ALEX KOPER! Dr. Alex Koper has been caring for patients in our community at the Sansum Clinic Urology Department for 41 years. This year he has been recognized by the Central Coast Medical Association as Physician of the Year.

SANSUM CLINIC HONORED AT SOUTH COAST BUSINESS AND TECHNOLOGY AWARDS Sansum Clinic was among ten standout organizations and individuals honored at the 2022 South Coast Business and Technology Awards ceremony held Thursday, June 16 at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort. The annual awards celebrate innovation, leadership and success in the business and technology sectors. Proceeds from the event benefit the Scholarship Foundation of Santa Barbara. Sansum Clinic received an Excellence in Service Award along with Cottage Health and Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics, for working tirelessly to care for patients in our community throughout the pandemic. “Since 2001, South Coast Business and Technology Awards ceremonies have provided nearly $2.7 million to more than 1,000 county students pursuing degrees in business and technology-related fields. We are very grateful for such generous support from our local business and technology community,” said Scholarship Foundation President and CEO Barbara Robertson.

Dr. Kurt Ransohoff, left, with event sponsors and honorees

(third from right) Nicole Stern, MD, FACP, at the 7th Annual AIAHPP

NICOLE STERN, MD, FACP Dr. Nicole Stern recently co-directed the 7th Annual American Indians Accessing Health Professions Program, which is focused on exposing American Indian and Alaska Native early college, community college or tribal college students to the public health and the health professions. Stanford School of Medicine hosted this program. The Commonwealth Fund Fellowship in Minority Health Policy is an extremely competitive fellowship program that sponsors a MPH or MPA degree at Harvard University. Dr. Stern continued part-time at Sansum Clinic Urgent Care while completing the fellowship in-person and virtually during the last year.

KATRINA MITCHELL, MD, IBCLC, PMH-C, FACS Dr. Katrina Mitchell participated in the Targeted Medical Education (TME) Annual Roundtable Summit Oct 21 and 22 in Las Vegas. This event invites national leaders in breast surgery whose goal is to cut through the avalanche of “new developments” in breast cancer, eliminating the spurious, and implementing genuine advances.

SANSUM DOCTORS HONORED IN BEST OF SANTA BARBARA ISSUE BY READERS OF THE SB INDEPENDENT Four Sansum Clinic doctors were recognized in the Santa Barbara Independent’s 2022 Best of Santa Barbara issue. Congratulations!

Best General Practitioner Winner: Dr. David Phreaner at Goleta Family Medicine Finalist: Dr. Laurel Bliss at Pueblo MultiSpecialty Center Best Pediatrician Winner: Dr. Daniel Brennan at Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine Finalist: Dr. Jerold Black at Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine Fall 2022 · GoodHealth

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Eye Care

State-of-the-Art

eye care Learn more Elings Eye Center at Sansum Clinic 4151 Foothill Road Santa Barbara, CA 93110 (805) 681-8950 eyecare.sansumclinic.org Elings Eye Center at Sansum Clinic

Offering patients comprehensive, state-of-the-art eye care services, all in one location SANSUM CLINIC’S EXPERT TEAM of doctors and surgeons, which represent all the different subspecialties in ophthalmology, alongside a caring and compassionate staff, offer patients comprehensive, state-of-the-art eye care services, all in one location.

As part of Santa Barbara’s only multi-specialty eye care center, our ophthalmology specialists can meet all the needs of our community. We have the area’s only full-time fellowshiptrained surgical glaucoma specialist, the area’s only pediatric ophthalmologist, and we perform more eye surgeries than any other provider in the region at our Foothill Surgery Center right next door.

Our ophthalmological specialties include: • Cataract surgery • Cornea/refractive surgery • Corneal transplant surgery • Cosmetic ophthalmology • Eye muscle surgery • Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) • Glaucoma surgery • Laser eye surgery (LASIK) • Neuro-ophthalmology • The tri-counties’ only pediatric ophthalmology provider

Sansum Clinic partners with SEE International’s Santa Barbara Vision Care Program to provide eye care services, at no cost, to patients of SEE who have no health and/or vision insurance. Since the start of the program in 2019, the Clinic’s ophthalmology physicians and medical staff have provided eye care to nearly 100 patients (729 services). Dr. Toni Meyers recently joined the Medical Advisory Board of SEE International.

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Eye Care

Dr. Mica Bergman

Dr. Mark Silverberg

Dr. Toni Meyers

oculoplastic surgeon

adult + pediatric ophthalmologist

ophthalmologist

“Being in one building allows us to interact with each other and to rely on each other’s expertise and knowledge.”

“One of the best parts of my practice is the age range I see, from nine-day old infants to 99 year-old seniors. It’s simply spectacular.”

“The explosion of many new types of advanced glaucoma surgeries is quite exciting. There are many more surgical options available to patients now.”

Dr. Doug Jacobson

Dr. Ryan Fante

Dr. Kirsten Wagner

ophthalmologist

ophthalmologist

ophthalmologist

“The goal of glaucoma care is to maintain and preserve the vision that people do have so that they can keep that same quality of sight for the rest of their lives.”

“It is quite fulfilling to be able to restore a patient’s vision and help them go back to doing the things that they are passionate about, and are important to them.”

“For some patients, having anything done on their eyes can be very stressful. I work to build trust with my patients by treating everyone as if they were my own family member.”

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Sansum Clinic knows the value of investing in employee education and development. Through the generous support of donors, the McNamara Fund for Professional Enrichment and Education, and the Nursing Scholarship Program help to support both clinical and non-clinical employee with educational endeavors, enabling them to reach their career goals. The following recipients were awarded grants and scholarships in 2022 toward development in their respective fields and careers. These programs continue to make a direct impact on our community, offering the assistance deserving staff need in order to afford higher education, and by developing our next generation of leaders.

McNamara Fund Recipients

Jose Diaz Jr. Applications Analyst EHR Revenue Cycle WAVE

Laura Albrecht Registered Nurse Specialist, Lead Solvang Oncology

Cherise Lastra Clinical Research Supervisor RTCC - Oncology Research

Carmellita (Cammie) Calcagno Registered Nurse Specialist Infectious Disease

Jenna Martinelli Radiologic Technologist Ultrasound Pesetas – Radiology

Jennifer Gonzalez Endoscopy Technician II Ambulatory Surgery Center

Ian McLelland Quality Management and Infection Control Manager Nursing Administration

Laura Laurenzano Registered Nurse Specialist Ambulatory Surgery Center

Ignacio (Iggy) Meza Applications Manager HR Revenue Cycle WAVE

Cynthia (Cindy) Mathes Registered Nurse Manager Pulmonary & Critical Care

Ella (Shadi) Otadi Licensed Vocational Nurse ENT

Maricela Hurtado Salinas Registered Nurse Specialist Urgent Care

Megan Thomas Supervisor Patient Services Pain Management Itzia Villegas Ortho Tech Department Coordinator Orthopedics

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Nursing Scholarship Recipients

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Special thanks for Dr. James and Chris McNamara for establishing the McNamara Fund for Professional Enrichment and Education, and to the many donors who have chosen to support the McNamara Fund. Nursing Scholarships are made possible through the generous support of John C. Mithum Foundation and Mithum Family Foundation.

Congratulations to all our 2022 award recipients. We’re so proud of you and greatly appreciate the investment you are making toward your career and the health and well-being of our patients and the community we serve.

For Improved Digestion, Start with the Basics CHRISTINA DOMINGUEZ, MS, RD, IFNCP, SANSUM CLINIC REGISTERED DIETITIAN

For most of us, the past two years have caused a lot of shifts and changes in our lives and as a result, some may have noticed changes in their digestive patterns.

It has become increasingly common for my patients to report varying degrees of abdominal distention (bloating), increased flatulence and upset stomach after eating. With the increase in advertising on social media for direct-to-consumer food sensitivity kits, some have asked if food intolerances could be causing their symptoms. While food sensitivities are a possibility, it is a good idea to assess the basics first.

Here are 7 strategies that can help decrease gas, abdominal bloating and improve your overall digestion: 1. SLOW DOWN How long does it take you to finish your meal? It can take our stomachs at least 20 minutes to sense fullness. If you finish your meal sooner than this, there is a chance of accidently overeating before sensing this cue, leaving you feeling uncomfortably full and bloated.

Eating large meals can also trigger acid reflux in some people. To help you slow down, imagine your meal divided into four sections.

Consume 1/4 of your meal and then pause for 2-3 minutes before beginning to eat the next section. During each pause notice any sensations in your stomach that indicate you are approaching fullness.

2. CHEW, CHEW, CHEW! Eating on the go, in the car, or in a rush sets you up to swallowing bites of food that have not been chewed very well. Try taking smaller bites and chewing them to a paste texture before swallowing. This might take 20-40 chews depending on what you are eating. You may notice the flavor of your food more, too.

3. SMALLER MEALS, MORE OFTEN Smaller meals are easier to digest. If you typically eat three large meals per day, try making them a bit smaller and eat a small snack between meals if you get hungry.

4. BOX BREATHING Think of digestion as a top-down process that starts in your brain.

Thoughts and feelings significantly influence your ability to digest food.

For example, if you are struggling with anxiety or stress, some foods may cause gas, nausea, or feel as if they are “sitting” in your stomach after eating them. Deep breathing prior to meals can help calm the nervous system and allow the body to enter into a state of “rest and digest”. Start by breathing in through your nose as you count to four, then hold your breath for a count of four and breathe out again for a count of four. Repeat these steps at least three times prior to meals.

5. ADDRESS CONSTIPATION If you are not evacuating your bowels on a regular basis, food will stay in the colon longer contributing to bloating and gas. Work to increase the amount of unsweetened liquids you drink and slowly increase your intake of fiber from whole grains, fruit with skins on and vegetables.

If this is a chronic issue, speak with your doctor and a registered dietitian for individualized guidance.

6. TAKE NOTES Keep a food record for 1-2 weeks to help identify the cause of your bloating. Make notes about where you ate, what you ate and drank, emotional state (e.g. stressed, anxious), when your symptoms began and how long they last. If you start to see a pattern, ask your doctor for a referral to speak with a registered dietitian; they can help you develop a safe and effective nutrition plan.

7. LIMIT OR AVOID GAS-PRODUCING FOODS AND BEVERAGES Some healthy foods naturally produce more gas in our digestive tract and it may help to reduce the portion size or how often you consume them. Be sure to speak with a registered dietitian prior to making any changes to your diet. i. Common food triggers: beans, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, lactose containing foods, sugar alcohols, artificial sweeteners ii. Common beverage triggers: beer, sparkling water, kombucha and other carbonated beverages

Christina Dominguez, MS, RD, IFNCP, is a Registered Dietitian at Sansum Clinic. Registered Dietitians offer comprehensive nutrition education for a wide variety of health concerns. To make an appointment, please get a referral from your doctor and call the Nutrition Department at (805) 681-7522.

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Ridley-Tree Cancer Center Radiation Oncology Clinical Trial for Breast Cancer Patients

(left to right) Shane Cotter, MD, PhD, Radiation Oncologist, Heidi Heitcamp, PhD, Clinical Research Department Manager, and Clarence Thompson, Radiation Oncology Director

ridley-tree cancer center is currently running a radiation oncology clinical trial for breast cancer patients, marking the organization’s commitment to keep the central coast at the forefront of modern cancer care. The trial focuses on whether patients with early stage breast cancer between the ages of 50 and 69 who meet certain criteria can avoid radiation treatment and still receive good outcomes.

“Historically, radiation therapy for breast cancer was a one-sizefits-all approach, including six weeks of radiation regardless of the aggressiveness of the disease,” explains Shane Cotter, MD, PhD, Radiation Oncologist and principal investigator for this trial. “Our understanding of the disease has evolved over time, such that oncologists have begun to de-escalate treatment for less aggressive subsets. While one does not want to under-treat, we do not want to over-treat those patients we expect to still

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Fall 2022 · GoodHealth

do very well with less aggressive therapies.” Cotter adds that for younger women, the tendency has been to treat routinely with radiation. Studies in carefully-selected women 70 and over have shown no survival benefit to adding radiation, he notes. “In older women, sometimes after surgery, just the anti-hormone pill is enough protection for the breast and body, because the risks are low. The research shows Learn more with this treatment plan, Clinical Research women in that age group can research.ridleytreecc.org forgo the radiation and still do very well. So we are now (805) 879-0643 asking, if it’s true for the older women, is it is also true for

Cancer Care younger women ages 50 to 69, who are very carefully selected.”

The nationwide trial that Ridley-Tree joined seeks to enroll 1,714 women from 339 different study sites across the country.

These patients will continue the treatment course decided on with their medical team, but half will no longer receive radiation therapy. For those who do receive radiation, it will follow standard of care. “Participants in this trial will go through a process called randomization with a 50/50 chance of study arm assignment. Who ends up with radiation treatment is not decided by us, the study will assign women to one arm of the trial or the other,” shares Heidi Heitkamp, PhD, Clinical Research Department Manager. Trial participant’s care will be followed for ten years, with the primary study completion date in 2026, and final results expected in 2041. Generally, qualifying trial candidates have small stage 1, estrogen receptorpositive tumors with low risk of recurrence that were surgically removed. The specific hormone blocking treatment used by trial participants is determined by a patient’s medical oncologist, not the study organizers. Ridley-Tree’s Clinical Research Department and Dr. Cotter will fully evaluate the medical history of any woman volunteering to join the trial, to determine eligibility.

that we think ask the best questions, and best serve the patients in our community.” Ridley-Tree is participating in this trial via its affiliation with the NRG Oncology Network, an NCI-funded collaborative. NRG broadens Ridley-Tree’s study portfolio beyond surgical and medical oncology. Ridley-Tree’s Clinical Research Department also partners with the US Oncology Research Network, leading pharmaceutical companies and universities. Through these networks, our center’s oncologists and researchers collaborate to identify and initiate trials based on the science and the need in our community. The Clinical Research program at Ridley-Tree Cancer Center is made possible thanks to generous support from the Cancer Foundation of Santa Barbara.

“It’s exciting to have a trial that is on the leading edge of how we make important decisions about radiation treatment, and to be working alongside many trial sites and large academic centers,” remarks Dr. Cotter. “We always look forward to opening studies

Clinical Research at Sansum Clinic

Clinical research plays a critical role in advancing patient care and improving treatment outcomes. A clinical trial is a research study in which people participate to help determine the effectiveness of a new medical treatment, procedure or technology. Implementation of clinical trials requires dedicated physician principal investigators, highly-trained research coordinators as well as regulatory and data specialists.

Based on the needs of our community, our physicians participate in clinical trials to provide patients with access to cutting-edge therapies and technologies for the treatment of many diseases and conditions. Patients participate for a variety of reasons, including gaining access to novel treatments and contributing to advancing medicine around the world.

A linear accelerator in Ridley-Tree’s Radiation Oncology Department

Ridley-Tree Cancer Center’s Clinical Research Program is housed alongside the Sansum Clinic Research Program at Ridley-Tree’s main building at 540 W. Pueblo Street, enabling direct collaboration between the two programs.

While Ridley-Tree research remains focused on advancing oncology care, the Sansum Clinic Research Program works directly with Sansum physicians in a wide variety of medical specialties to identify and initiate clinical trials and enroll patients that would benefit from promising new therapies.

Both research teams are recognized for their focus on patient safety and personalized care, and they compassionately guide our patients through each step of their treatment.

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AMERICAN DIABETES MONTH Prediabetes is a serious health condition where your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough yet to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. Prediabetes increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. According to the CDC, more than 1 in 3 U.S. adults have prediabetes —that’s 96 million people—but the majority of people don’t know they have it.

You can have prediabetes for years but have no clear symptoms, so it often goes undetected until serious health problems show up. It is important to talk to your doctor about getting your blood sugar tested if you have any of the risk factors for prediabetes, which include:

Diabetes Basics Nicole Almanza, RD, CDCES Diabetes Basics is a free 4-week program recommended for anyone with pre-diabetes or diabetes, especially newly diagnosed. This program is open to the community and taught

by Clinical Diabetes Educator Nicole Almanza. You will learn: • How you can manage your blood sugar • Why checking blood sugar can improve your health • About nutrition and Yes! you can eat fun foods • Why physical activity is important • About stress, sleep, and your blood sugar

• Being overweight • Being 45 years or older • Having a parent, brother, or sister with type 2 diabetes • Being physically active less than 3 times a week • Ever having gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) or giving birth to a baby who weighed more than 9 pounds • Having polycystic ovary syndrome Race and ethnicity are also a factor: African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, American Indians, Pacific Islanders, and some Asian Americans are at higher risk.

By making lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular exercise and eating a healthy diet, it is possible to prevent type 2 diabetes and even reverse prediabetes.

Scan QR code to sign up or call (805) 681-7672.

Sansum Clinic’s Diabetes Education program provides information and support to help you manage your diabetes for the best health possible. Programs include: • Diabetes Basics class (see above) • Individual consultations with a clinical diabetes educator • Educational videos For more information about our Diabetes Education program, visit diabetes.sansumclinic.org, or call the Health Resource Center at (805) 681-7672.

End of the Year Checklist

Be proactive by checking these health tasks off your list before the end of the year.

Complete your advance directive – Document your healthcare goals and wishes by completing your MyCare document. Sign up for a free Advance Directives Workshop to get started. Visit adp.sansumclinic.org or call (805) 681-7672.

Get a flu shot – It’s not too late to get your flu shot.

Flu activity tends to increase during the holiday season as gatherings increase. Protect yourself and your loved ones by getting a flu shot before the holidays. Visit flushots.sansumclinic.org for more information.

Schedule your annual exam with your primary care provider – Annual exams are an important tool to help you maintain your best health. They enable your doctor to identify health issues as soon as possible and address risk factors before problems occur. Be sure to ask about cancer screenings at your next appointment.

Support Sansum Clinic – Sansum Clinic is the oldest and largest non-profit, outpatient healthcare provider on the California Central Coast. The generous support of our donors enable us to provide the highest quality healthcare our community deserves. Every gift makes a difference, no matter the amount. To donate online, visit sansumclinic.org/donate-now, or call the Philanthropy Department at (805) 681-7762.

Stop smoking – Don’t wait until the new year to set healthy goals. Quitting has many immediate and long term health benefits. Kick It California offers free support.

Visit their website at KickItCA.org or call (800) 300-8086.

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Fall Spring 2022 2022 · GoodHealth · GoodHealth

New Providers Justin Abraham, MD

Ambareen Ahmed, DO

Serene Alexander, DO

Neurology

Family Medicine

Obstetrics & Gynecology

Justin Abraham, MD, board-certified neurologist, joined the Neurology Department in September. He received his medical degree from Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, while also earning an MBA at Widener University School of Business.

He completed his neurology residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and his clinical neurophysiology and epilepsy fellowship at Rush University Medical Center.

Ambareen Ahmed, DO, board-certified family medicine physician, joined our State Street Family Practice in September. She earned her doctor of osteopathic medicine degree from Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, and completed her family medicine residency at Community Memorial Health System in Ventura. She also completed a Masters in Biotechnology and Bioinformatics at Johns Hopkins University.

Serene Alexander, DO, board-certified OB/ GYN, joined our OB/GYN Department at 317 West Pueblo Street in August. She earned her doctor of osteopathic medicine degree at Des Moines University, and completed her OB/GYN residency at Creighton University Medical Center. She previously worked at Kaiser Permanente Medical Group in Modesto, and Golden Valley Health Center in Merced, where she was Assistant Chair of OB/GYN at Mercy Medical Center.

Summer Baird, MD

Julian Becher, MD

Sarah Finnerty, MD

Hospitalist

Family Medicine

Urgent Care

Summer Baird, MD, board-certified internist, joined the Clinic’s hospitalist team in August. Dr. Baird earned her medical degree at Ross University School of Medicine and completed her internal medicine residency at Cottage Hospital, where she was also chief resident. She most recently worked as a hospitalist at Dignity Health-Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City, CA.

Julian Becher, MD, board-certified family practitioner, joined the Pesetas Family Medicine Department in May. Dr. Becher is originally from Canada, attended McGill University, and earned his medical degree from St. Georges University in Grenada. He completed his family practice residency at JFK University Medical Center in Edison, New Jersey. Prior to joining the Clinic, Dr. Becher worked as a primary care physician for the past six years at Clinicas del Camino Real in Ojai.

Dr. Sarah Finnerty, board-certified emergency medicine physician, joined the Urgent Care Department in April. She earned her medical degree and Masters in Public Health from the University of Illinois College of Medicine. She completed her emergency medicine residency at the University of Chicago’s Department of Emergency Medicine. She has worked in emergency medicine, urgent care, student health and occupational health settings.

Fall 2022 · GoodHealth

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New Providers

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Richard Huynh, MD

Ramiro Jervis, MD

Justin Kam, PA

Hematology & Oncology

Internal Medicine

Pain Management

Dr. Richard Hunyh, board-certified internist, medical oncologist and hematologist, joined Ridley-Tree Cancer Center in August. Dr. Huynh earned his medical degree from Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia, and completed his internal medicine residency at the University of California Irvine.

He received his hematology-oncology fellowship training at the University of California Los Angeles Olive View Medical Center and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.

Ramiro Jervis, MD, board-certified internist and hospitalist, joined Sansum Clinic in September. Dr. Jervis earned his medical degree from Washington University School of Medicine, and completed his internal medicine internship and residency at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City. He has more than 20 years of inpatient and outpatient internal medicine experience, including working as a hospitalist at Mount Sinai Hospital.

Justin Kam, PA-C joined the Pain Management Department in July. Mr. Kam earned his master of medical science in physician assistant studies from Midwestern University in Illinois. He has worked as a PA-C in various practice settings, most recently at the Spine and Orthopedic Center in Santa Barbara.

Shannon Kaminski, NP

Kavya Kannan, MD

Roxana Ledig, MD

Hematology & Oncology

Hematology & Oncology

Internal Medicine

Shannon Kaminski, RN, MSN, APN-BC joined Ridley-Tree Cancer Center’s Surgical Oncology Department in April. Ms. Kaminski earned her BSN from San Jose State University and earned her MSN from San Diego State University. For the past several years, she has been working at Ventura County Medical Center as a trauma nurse practitioner in both the inpatient and outpatient settings.

Kavya Kannan, MD, board-certified internist and medical oncologist and hematologist, joined Ridley-Tree Cancer Center in August. Dr. Kannan received her medical degree from Coimbatore Medical College in India. She completed her hematology-oncology fellowship at Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, and her internal medicine residency at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center.

Roxana Ledig, MD joined the Pesetas Internal Medicine Department in September. She earned her medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine and completed her internal medicine residency at Cottage Hospital in Santa Barbara.

Fall 2022 · GoodHealth

New Providers Susan Mansourian, MD

Jason Morris, MD

Madeline Perez, PA

Rheumatology

Urgent Care

Endocrinology

Susan Mansourian, MD, board-certified internist, joined the Rheumatology Department in July. She earned her medical degree from the University of Debrecen Medical and Health Science Center in Hungary. Dr. Mansourian completed her internal medicine residency at Rochester General Hospital in Rochester, New York, and her rheumatology fellowship at the University of Kentucky.

Dr. Jason Morris, board-certified emergency medicine physician, joined the Urgent Care Department in August.

Dr. Morris earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin and completed his emergency medicine residency at Loma Linda University Medical Center in California. He has worked in several emergency room and urgent care settings, and joined the Clinic from Dignity Health Urgent Care in Solvang where he was the lead physician.

Madeline Perez, PA joined the Endocrinology Department in May. Ms. Perez earned her BSN at UC Davis and recently completed the Physician Associate Program at Yale School of Medicine. She is board certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.

Sarah Rasmussen, CNM, NP

Marlene Roberts, NP

Ericka Sohlberg

Obstetrics & Gynecology

Family Medicine

Urology

Sarah Rasmussen joined our OB/GYN Department at 317 West Pueblo Street in September. Ms. Rasmussen is a certified nurse midwife and women’s health nurse practitioner. She received her master of science in nursing degree and nurse practitioner training at Georgetown University in Washington, DC. Her work experience includes time at Santa Barbara Planned Parenthood and several private OB/GYN practices in this region.

Marlene Roberts, NP-C joined the Solvang Family Medicine practice in June. Ms. Roberts completed her nurse practitioner education at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science in Los Angeles.

She also completed a doctorate in clinical psychology from Ryokan College in Los Angeles, and has worked in various outpatient clinical settings in the Los Angeles area before joining the Clinic.

Dr. Ericka Sohlberg joined the Urology Department in April. Dr. Sohlberg earned her medical degree from Oregon Health and Science University, and completed her urologic surgery residency at Stanford University where she received extensive training in robotic surgery, endoscopic procedures, prolapse repair and female incontinence surgery. Since residency, she had been practicing with the Urology Associates of the Central Coast.

Fall 2022 · GoodHealth

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Sansum Clinic 470 South Patterson Avenue Santa Barbara, CA 93111

World-class breast cancer care happens here.

Breast Imaging Breast Surgery Medical Oncology Radiation Oncology Nuclear Medicine Palliative Care Clinical Research Genetic Counseling Oncology Nutrition Patient Navigation Support Groups Wellness Programs Learn more! breastcancer.ridleytreecc.org In partnership with

Ridley-Tree Cancer Center was lit in pink this October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.