Stormont-Vail Healthy Times Spring 2015

Stormont-Vail HealthCare

Dedicated to your health ... for a lifetime.

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FAMILY HEALTH A Breath of Fresh Air for Young Asthma Patients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 LIFESTYLES Healthy Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Bite Into a Healthy Lifestyle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 MEDICAL NEWS Oncology Rehabilitation Helps Those With Cancer Diagnosis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Doctor's Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 CALENDAR Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Support Groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Family Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Parenting

Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 HealthWise 55 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Healthy Spring 2015

TIMES

Advanced Planning for Health Care Decisions:

Difficult Conversations That Give

The Gift of Peace of Mind Not many people enjoy having difficult conversations. You know the ones: discussing the birds and the bees with your children, giving a coworker or boss poor performance feedback, or dealing with offensive behavior from a family member. One difficult conversation includes some thinking and planning, but it can provide a lasting peace of mind not only for you, but also for your family, friends and loved ones. This is the discussion about advance planning for health care decisions. These difficult discussions are not just for the elderly. Young adults and Baby Boomers may experience an unexpected illness that progresses, or an unplanned catastrophic event, such as an accident when your wishes and the paperwork to back them up need to be in place before they are needed.

“Patients should have autonomy in making their health care decisions,” said Anne Kindling, Manager, Risk Management at Stormont-Vail HealthCare. “When they aren’t able to make their wishes known, and if they don’t have these documents in place, then they run the risk of their wishes not being followed.”

There are two things all adults should have in place: 1. A Living Will 2. Durable Power of Attorney

There are three actions to take once the forms are in hand: 1. Fill them out and get them notarized and signed by the appropriate parties, 2. Talk with family members and friends about your wishes and explain that you have these documents, and 3. Make copies and have them available in the appropriate places and give them to the people who need them.

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MEDICAL LIFESTYLES NEWS Living Wills

A Living Will provides the opportunity to refuse life-saving or lifesustaining interventions that would serve to prolong the dying process, which takes effect when a patient has an incurable injury or a terminal condition. Although the statutory Living Will requires physicians to certify the terminal condition, many Kansas health care facilities will honor Optional Additional Instructions, which may be attached to a Living Will and apply more broadly before a terminal condition has been certified. The Living Will form available at stormontvail.org allows patients to give additional information before the dying process begins, such as being diagnosed with a disease or condition that you are not expected to recover from, but that you might not succumb to right away.

A Living Will may be revoked by either obliterating or destroying it, by a written revocation signed and dated, or by a verbal expression of the intent to revoke it, which is made in the presence of a witness aged 18 years or older. If a physician cannot comply with the terms of the Living Will, then he or she must transfer the patient to another physician. A Living Will is not effective if the patient is pregnant.

Having a Living Will in place is also a good measure of protection because it doesn’t allow your Durable Power of Attorney for health care, (DPOA) also known as an agent, to take aggressive measures when you have stated that is not what you want. Also, it helps guide your DPOA

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to know for sure what you want and is another tool to ensure that your wishes will be granted. It can help with any miscommunication or misinterpretation that your DPOA may have. A Living Will takes priority in guiding your medical care, even if your DPOA provides contrary instructions.

Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA)

A Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA) for Health Care Decisions selects an agent, or surrogate, specifically for the purpose of making health care decisions for you. This is the broadest form of advanced directives as it gives the agent whatever powers designated by the person they are representing. The agent chosen has the duty to act consistent with the expressed desires of the person the agent is representing. This is only activated and the DPOA only has decision-making power when the patient cannot speak for himself or herself, such as in the case of being incapacitated, under anesthesia, or otherwise not competent or able to express their wishes. As soon as the patient regains the ability to speak, then the DPOA is considered inactive. There can also be limitations put in place on what the DPOA can and cannot do. The DPOA form available at stormontvail.org has a box to document limitations.

How do you go about choosing a DPOA or agent? Make sure you select someone who shares the same general health care values that you do. This person may want different things for himself or herself, but the agent needs to be someone who can speak for you and make sure that your decisions are followed through even if they differ from the agent's own. Also, a DPOA doesn’t have to be a spouse or relative. A common myth is that, if you don’t have a Living Will or DPOA in place, your spouse has the legal right to make these health care decisions for you. Your health care provider

LIFESTYLES may look first to your spouse, but other family members and friends may be able to challenge decisions, if you do not have these documents in place. You shouldn’t assume that the person you want to make decisions for you will be the person that health care providers will default to.

Do Not Resuscitate Directive or Order (DNR)

An optional document to consider is a Do Not Resuscitate Directive or Order (DNR). This document specifically declines CPR or other interventions to restart breathing or heart functioning if the patient’s heart stops beating or the patient stops breathing. A Pre-Hospital DNR Directive must be signed and dated and agreed to by your physician. A DNR Order remains valid during transport of the patient between the hospital and nursing home, unless rescinded by the physician. This is typically used only when the patient is near the end of life or has a condition likely to result in the need to be resuscitated.

Parental Authorization for Medical Treatment

If you have minor children or grandchildren, you should consider a document called a Parental Authorization for Medical Treatment, which is a method of designating a person to make decisions for a minor child in the parent’s absence. It is a helpful document if the parents are traveling, if there is a step-parent or grandparent who will be helping seek medical care, and/or if the child spends time with a day care provider.

Where to Find These Forms

Living Will, Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA), Pre-Hospitalization Do Not Resuscitate Order, and Parental Authorization for Medical Treatment forms are all available at stormontvail.org among “Resources” under the “For Patients and Visitors” tab.

Having difficult conversations with your family and friends

It is imperative to have conversations early and often with family and loved ones as to what your health care values are and what decisions you would make. Your values may change as time passes and life events occur – the birth of a child or learning of a terminal illness, for example – and you can change the documents to be current with your values. Having these discussions and preparing papers in advance gives your loved ones the peace of mind of knowing they are implementing your wishes, which is a significant comfort in the face of a health care crisis.

Caring Conversations is a booklet designed by the Center for Practical Bioethics that is a great resource tool to use when having these difficult conversations. Free downloads of this tool in English, Spanish, and also a version for young adults is available at www.practicalbioethics.org and includes topics such as: • The History of Advance Care Planning • Workbook Exercises to Help you Reflect, Talk, Appoint and Act in Making Your Decisions Known • How Caring Conversations Happen • Making Decisions When You Face A Serious Illness • Samples of Forms • Information for You and Your Agent, as well as, What Your Agent Needs to Know, and How to Decide What Helps or Hinders

Who Gets Copies of Your Forms And Where Should You Store Them?

It cannot be stressed enough that none of these documents will accomplish the purpose intended, if the documents are not available to health care providers and/or to the persons who are interested in the patient’s health care at the time they need them.

Many people think that as important legal documents these papers should be kept in a safety deposit box or another secure and fire-proof location, however they will not be readily available in the middle of the night or on the weekend, which is often when a health care crisis can occur. It may also prove to be a problem if family members have not been alerted to such documents and where they are located. Keep a copy where you store your other important papers, but make sure you make additional copies and place them with the following people and places: • DPOA agent or anyone who has been designated as a decisionmaker or surrogate for you or anyone who might be notified in the case of an emergency.

• Your primary care physician.

• Hospital of choice.

• In the glove box of your car in case of an accident. This is the first place law enforcement will check.

• It is suggested that copies of these documents be kept in the refrigerator or by the telephone in your home, as many medical responders are trained to look in those places for medications you may be on and can find them there.

• Consider placing a card in your billfold or wallet identifying that you have these health care forms filled and provide the contact information for your designated DPOA agent.

– Linda Ruiz

National Health Care Decisions Day National Health Care Decisions Day is April 16, but any day is a good day for advance planning for health care decisions.

Stormont-Vail HealthCare is committed to raising awareness among patients, visitors, and staff of the benefits of advance planning to provide for a legal decision maker or documents to guide a patient’s medical care when the patient is unable to speak for himself or herself.

Stop by Stormont-Vail Regional Health Center’s North Tower Lobby from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, April 16, for information about Advance Directives such as a Living Will, Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA) for Health Care, Pre-Hospital DNR, and Parental Authorization for Medical Treatment. An information table will also be available at the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Thursday, April 16.

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FAMILY HEALTH

A Breath of Fresh Air for Young Asthma Patients

Randy Schumacher, M.D.

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic lung disease in which airways narrow, swell and produce extra mucus. It causes shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness and coughing.

Asthma cannot be cured and most often presents in pediatric patients. For some patients it is a minor concern, but for others it can be a major problem. Asthma can interfere with daily activities if not properly managed and can lead to a life-threatening asthma attack.

If you are diagnosed with asthma, it is important to work with your primary care physician to track your symptoms and adjust your treatments as needed.

Source: Mayo Clinic

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Serena Laird, BS, RRT, AE-C

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that asthma affects 18.7 percent of children nationwide and 18.2 percent of children in Kansas. It is the most common chronic illness among children, yet patients often go without proper treatment.

Stormont-Vail HealthCare pediatricians, hospitalists and respiratory therapists, along with multiple community stakeholders, are partnering “to reduce the burden of asthma and improve the quality of life of children with asthma in the Topeka community,” according to the charter of the Integrated Pediatric Asthma Steering Committee.

The committee, which includes members from Stormont-Vail, PediatricCare, Pediatric Associates, the Seaman school district, Topeka Public Schools and the American Lung Association, strives to: • Reduce emergency department visits, hospital admissions and school absenteeism for children with asthma.

• Provide a forum for communication and collaboration in the asthma community to share and disseminate information.

• Develop a data collection plan to accurately assess asthma.

• Act as a catalyst for change to facilitate improvement in asthma care and management.

FAMILY HEALTH

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Integrated Pediatric Steering Committee members learn about the Asthma Ready® Communities; a successful asthma collaborative from Columbia, Mo.

Ben Francisco, PhD, PNP-BC, AE-C, director of Asthma Ready® Communities gives the Integrated Pediatric Asthma Steering Committee advice on creating an asthma action plan.

“If we improve community-wide care, the individual patient will see improved care,” said Randy Schumacher, M.D., pediatrician and committee co-chair.

The committee found that instead of managing asthma with a daily routine, patients were coming into the Emergency Department because of asthma exacerbations. There was a disconnect between the care patients were receiving and education on how to manage their illness. To combat this disconnect, the committee has created an Asthma Action Plan (AAP).

Every pediatric asthma patient that comes into the Emergency Department, urgent care, respiratory clinic or primary care will receive an AAP. This can be shared with the child’s doctors, school nurses and family to manage the patient’s asthma symptoms.

According to Serena Laird, BS, RRT, AE-C, Stormont-Vail’s respiratory manager and certified asthma educator, school nurses often see kids with asthma more often than the primary care providers and they are the first point of contact when a child has a flare up. Working with those school nurses is imperative to Laird.

The committee was “looking for new opportunities and ways to reach kids with asthma to improve their health,” Laird said. Sharing the AAP with school nurses was one way to do that.

Each AAP consists of three management zones. The first is the Green Zone. This zone details how asthma should be managed when the patient is not displaying any symptoms. The Yellow Zone, or warning zone, tells a patient what to do if their symptoms start flaring up or if they are noticing extra coughing, wheezing or shortness of breath. Finally, the Red Zone indicates what a patient should do if they experience an asthma attack or exacerbation.

Dr. Schumacher says the framework for the AAP “is the same, but what to do in those zones may be different,” for individual patients.

If your child is diagnosed with asthma, visit with your primary care physician and discuss creating an AAP. Dr. Schumacher suggests that children with asthma should visit their primary care doctor “two to four times a year, depending on how severe the asthma is.”

Asthma does not have a cure. Children “won’t outgrow asthma, but education is key to managing symptoms,” Laird said.

This education is the ultimate goal for the Integrated Pediatric Asthma Steering Committee. Dr. Schumacher said it best, “Kids should be able to do what they want to without asthma being a limiting factor.”

– Niki Maloney

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MEDICAL LIFESTYLES NEWS

Healthy Travel If you have been bitten by the travel bug (not bed bugs) and are planning a trip outside the United States this year, consider calling Cotton-O’Neil’s Infectious Disease office. Plan this visit at least six weeks before your trip. When traveling outside the U.S., you might need vaccinations or medicines to prevent specific illness.

Which ones you’ll need will depend on what part of the world you’re visiting, the time of year, your age, overall health status, and previous Cyndi Peterson, APRN immunizations. Most vaccines also take time to become effective. A lot of planning is critical when traveling: booking flights, cruises, hotels, boarding pets, etc. It is critical to ensure the time and money you have invested is enjoyed, rather than being sick away from home and in areas where health care and treatment is different.

Jackie Keddie-Holt, CRRN, MAHS, retired director of Quality and Risk Management, Kansas Rehabilitation Hospital, and former StormontVail HealthCare staff member, is a member of a local women’s Travelers Club and experienced traveler. Keddie-Holt has worked with Cyndi Peterson, APRN, Infectious Diseases, numerous times and shared the following stories of how Peterson prepared her for healthy traveling.

“I call well in advance of any trip and bring in material I have found on the CDC website to our first meeting. Cyndi reviews my itinerary, the CDC information for each country and then she provides a schedule for vaccinations and immunizations. She also reviews what else will be needed and what is probably not a concern,” said Keddie-Holt.

Peterson confirms that, “We ask travelers to call with plenty of time before their trip. When someone calls in to be seen, we schedule a consult visit if they have never been here. We determine their destinations, days of travel and length of the trip. I then do a search through CDC Travelers’ Health to verify CDC recommendations for vaccines, malaria, and recent travel health notices. I review their vaccine history, as on occasion I have found they are incomplete.

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“You may also need vaccinations or medicines to prevent specific illness; which ones will depend on what part of the world you’re visiting, the time of year, your age, overall health status, and previous immunizations.

I provide them with written information on most common infections and precautions to take that are specific to the areas they will be visiting.

I incorporate teaching along with vaccines. Yellow fever vaccine is recommended for travelers heading to South America or Africa and may be required for entry into certain countries. The yellow fever vaccine is not active until 10 days after it is given, therefore if they travel to an endemic area prior to the 10-day time period they may not be allowed back into non-endemic areas. In addition to timing, serious adverse events can occur following yellow fever vaccinations, so I discuss any underlying health conditions they may have as well as observe the vaccine's contraindications and precautions to minimize the risk of adverse effects of the vaccine."

CDC Travelers’ Health at www.cdc.gov/travel provides the following helpful information for each country: • Vaccines and medicines • Non-Vaccine-Preventable Diseases • Patient Counseling • Health Travel Packing List • Travel Health Notices

LIFESTYLES Keddie-Holt shared her recent travel logs and the many ways Peterson was able to ensure that she traveled healthy: When I traveled to interior Turkey, we: • Discussed the current situation regarding the number of refugees that were in the areas I would be visiting and possible diseases that may be prevalent.

• Reviewed the basics such as food, water and exposure problems.

• Made sure my DPT shot was current and Cyndi provided antibiotics for me to take along that might be hard to find in Turkey.

• Discussed alternative medication and treatment that I might use during my time in Turkey.

When I traveled next to Panama, Cyndi: • Double-checked that my vaccinations were still current, and she gave very clear instructions regarding the malaria prophylaxis I needed.

• Stressed how important it was to take the medicine before I left on my trip and again the importance of continuing it when I came home.

To prepare for my trip to South America and the Amazon, Cyndi again discussed: • Prepared me for the higher altitudes I would be experiencing and how to prevent altitude sickness. (I was able to enjoy the Andes and Machu Picchu!)

During my China travels, Cyndi again: • Stressed caution regarding water and provided prophylaxis to prevent possible GI problems. (I was the only one in my travel group not to get sick during our China trip.)

• Reminded my of the malaria prophylaxis instructions.

• Ensured my vaccinations were current including yellow fever.

P.S. As time is so limited when traveling, we often plan to start touring as soon as we arrive. I am not able to sleep very well on the plane, so Cyndi and I discussed the possibility of taking Ambien to help me sleep and prepare for non-stop touring. We tried it before I left Topeka to make sure there were no side effects. Planning ahead and working with Cyndi has made traveling more enjoyable.

Thinking about a trip abroad? Call 354-9591, Ext. 1415, and let the nurse know you are traveling and would like an appointment. Jackie Keddie-Holt never leaves home before her travel check-up. Neither should you.

– Lenora Kinzie, MLS

Your Guide to Safe and Healthy Travel Traveling can increase your chances of getting sick, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Be Proactive!

Take steps to anticipate any issues that could arise during your trip. The information in this section will help you plan for a safe and healthy trip.

• Learn about your destination.

• See a doctor before you travel.

• Think about your health status.

• Are you too sick to travel? (Recent illnesses, injuries, or surgeries) • Do you have any special health needs? (Babies and small children, pregnant women, people with disabilities, people with weakened immune systems)

Be Prepared!

No one wants to think about getting sick or hurt during a trip, but sometimes these things happen. You may not be able to prevent every illness or injury, but you can plan ahead to be able to deal with them.

• Pack smart.

• Plan ahead for illnesses or injuries during your trip.

• Know what to do if you become sick or injured on your trip.

• Know and share important information about your trip.

Be Protected!

It is important to practice healthy behaviors during your trip and after you return home. Protect yourself and others from illness during your trip.

• Pay attention to your health during your trip.

• Use sunscreen and insect repellent as directed.

• Be careful about food and water.

• Try not to take risks with your health and safety.

• Limit alcohol intake, and do not drink alcohol and drive.

• Wear a seatbelt.

• Wear protective gear when doing adventure activities.

• Respect your host country and its people by following local laws and customs.

• Pay attention to your health when you come home.

(Source: http://www.cdc.gov/travel/page/survival-guide)

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MEDICAL NEWS

oncology reh those with ca A new approach is underway at the Stormont-Vail Cancer Center to help patients with a diagnosis of cancer get comprehensive, individualized cancer rehabilitation treatment to improve symptoms affecting daily functioning and quality of life.

Stormont-Vail HealthCare is the first organization in northeast Kansas to offer the nationally recognized STAR Program® (Survivorship, Training and Rehabilitation) to patients who have had a diagnosis of cancer. STAR Program® Certification was achieved through the Massachusetts-based Oncology Rehab Partners, experts in the field of survivorship care.

Steve Englander, MSPT, director of Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy, said the STAR Program is filling a gap in cancer care.

“Historically, there wasn’t a lot done after that initial treatment,” Englander said. “People had surgery, they had their radiation. They were told they’re in remission or they’re cured and on you go, but they were left with all kinds of issues.”

When a patient has a Steve Englander, MSPT heart attack, they may be sent to physical therapy and rehab as a standard practice. In oncology, that hasn’t been the case.

Now new patients at Stormont-Vail Cancer Center are being screened to see if they can benefit from physical, occupational or speech therapy.

People who are going through cancer treatments or completing them may have weakness or fatigue and may be candidates for rehabilitation services to assist them.

STAR Program Certification provides health care facilities and clinicians with the tools (education, training, evaluation and treatment protocols, and outcomes support) to develop and deliver state-of-the-art cancer rehabilitation services to survivors who suffer the side effects and after effects of treatments – whether they are in remission, living with cancer or cured. The therapists can create individualized plans to help the patients improve strength and energy, alleviate pain, and improve daily function and quality of life.

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Oncology Rehab Partners was co-founded by Julie Silver, M.D., an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School, and herself a cancer survivor. Dr. Silver is a leading expert in rehabilitation medicine.

“We are excited to be offering this service to our patients,” said Vicky McGrath, RN, MBA, BSN, director of the Stormont-Vail Cancer Center, said. “This program is part of our continuing effort to provide the best possible care for our patients.”

McGrath said in addition Vicky McGrath, RN, MBA, BSN to oncology rehabilitation, the Stormont-Vail Cancer Center also recently added a behavioral health therapist to the team. Other services for patients also include: nutritional counseling, social work, palliative care, clinical research and support groups.

– Anita Fry

MEDICAL NEWS

habilitation helps ancer diagnosis What is cancer rehabilitation?

Cancer rehabilitation is much like other forms of rehabilitation that are available to patients after a serious illness or injury such as a stroke or car accident. Medical services may include appointments with and treatments recommended by medical and rehabilitation professionals.

What types of problems can be treated with cancer rehabilitation?

Rehabilitation professionals can help you cope with a wide variety of cancer and/or treatment-related conditions and symptoms. These might include, but are not limited to: pain, weakness, tiredness (fatigue), shoulder problems, balance and walking (gait) problems, memory and concentration issues, swallowing and speech problems, swelling (lymphedema) as well as anxiety and/or depression.

How will I know if cancer rehabilitation can help me?

If you have any problems that you didn’t have before your diagnosis, especially if they interfere with your ability to do the things that you need or what to do, cancer rehabilitation can likely help you.

Will my insurance cover cancer rehabilitation?

If the cancer rehabilitation care is provided by professionals with health care degrees and licenses in rehabilitation medicine, then medical insurance should cover some or all of the costs. These

covered items usually include appointments with and treatments recommended by physical therapists, occupational therapists or speech therapists. Other services that your insurance will usually cover, at least in part, include those provided by nurses and mental health professionals. As with all insurance issues, check with your carrier about deductibles, co-pays and limits.

What is special about this cancer rehabilitation program?

The Stormont-Vail program is part of the STAR Program network of certified cancer rehabilitation programs. STAR Program Certified is a nationally recognized accreditation confirming that each locally available program is focused on improving the lives of survivors who suffer from side effects caused by cancer and its treatments. Certified STAR Programs offer coordinated cancer rehabilitation care that is supported by a team of specially trained medical professionals. As a STAR Program patient, you will receive complete and individualized cancer rehabilitation treatment that has been designated to improve the issues affecting your daily life.

How can I receive more information about Stormont-Vail’s STAR Program?

For appointments or additional information, call (785) 354-6116.

A provider referral is usually needed before therapies can begin.

Stormont-Vail STAR Oncology Rehabilitation Team

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MEDICAL LIFESTYLES NEWS MEDICAL NEWS

Into a Healthy Lifestyle “Bite into a Healthy Lifestyle” is the theme for 2015 National Nutritional Month, which is a nutrition education and information campaign created annually in March by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The campaign focuses attention on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits.

This year’s theme encourages everyone to adopt eating and physical activity plans that are focused on consuming fewer calories, making informed food choices and getting daily exercise in order to achieve and maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of chronic disease and promote overall health.

Balance calories with physical activity and consume an overall healthy eating pattern. This will help you achieve or maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of developing diet-related chronic diseases.

• Try crunchy vegetables instead of chips with a low fat salad dressing.

• Add color to salads with baby carrots, kale, mandarin oranges, grape tomatoes or spinach leaves.

• Put fresh fruit out where everyone can grab some for a snack on the run.

• Stock your freezer with frozen vegetables to steam or stir fry for a quick side dish.

• Make a vegetable wrap with roasted vegetables and low fat cheese rolled in a whole-wheat tortilla.

• Add more nutrition in your day with a colorful main dish or side salad. Add nuts, seeds, olives and avocados to a salad.

• Make your dessert a fruit.

• • • •

Encourage kids to eat more vegetables by setting out ingredients to make their own salads.

Use vegetables as a pizza topping; try spinach, green peppers, mushrooms or tomatoes.

Eat less added sugars, sodium and solid fats, including trans fats.

Eat more whole grains, vegetables, fruits, low fat or fat free milk, yogurt and cheese or fortified soy beverages.

– Melissa Moore, RD, LD

Quinoa, Black Bean and Strawberry Salad 1 teaspoon vegetable oil 1 small onion, chopped 2 garlic cloves, chopped 3/4 cup quinoa, uncooked 1 14.4 oz. can fat free chicken broth or 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth 1 teaspoon ground cumin Pepper to taste 1 cup frozen corn 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed

1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped 2 cups fresh strawberries cut in quarters 4 to 5 cups baby spinach Vinaigrette: 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, quartered 1 to 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice 1/4 cup olive oil 1 tablespoon honey Pepper to taste

1. In a medium saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Stir in the onion and garlic, and cook until lightly browned.

2. Add quinoa, broth and seasonings. Bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until water is absorbed.

3. Stir in corn and black beans and let cool or store overnight in refrigerator.

4. In the meantime, mix all strawberry dressing ingredients in a blender. Blend for 30 seconds or until all the ingredients are well blended. Set aside in a small pitcher.

5. When ready to serve: fold in strawberries and cilantro. Serve cold over a bed of baby spinach and drizzle strawberry dressing over plated quinoa salad.

Makes 4-6 servings. Per serving: 308 calories, 12 g fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 200 mg sodium, 45 g carbohydrates, 9 g fiber, 11 g protein

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MEDICAL NEWS

Doctor's Orders Digestive health is a focus in spring with March being Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and May as Digestive Diseases Awareness Month.

Healthy Times spoke with Robert Ricci, M.D., a gastroenterologist at the Cotton-O’Neil Digestive Health Center, about a digestive health issue.

What are polyps and why is it important to remove polyps from the colon?

A polyp is a small clump of cells that forms on the lining of the colon.

Most of the time polyps are harmless. However, over time, some polyps can develop into cancer. Typically, the larger the polyp, the greater likelihood exists that cancer may develop. Colon cancer is often fatal when the cancer is found in its later stages.

Colon polyps often exist without any symptoms, which is why it’s important to have regular screenings – also called a colonoscopy. Regular screening should begin at age 50 unless you have a family history of colon cancer. It’s important to discuss this with your physician and determine the appropriate time to be screened.

There are several types of colon polyps. Two thirds of all polyps are called adenomatous or precancerous and only a small percentage of these develop into cancer.

If you have colon polyps, your gastroenterologist may suggest that you have regular colonoscopies in the future, because you may be at risk of developing more polyps.

Risk Factors for developing colon polyps • •

Age. Most people begin to develop colon polyps at 50 years of age or older.

Inflammatory intestinal conditions. Being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease can lead to the development of colon polyps.

• • • • •

Family History. Colon polyps are more likely to develop if you have a parent, sibling or child with colon polyps.

Tobacco or alcohol use.

Obesity or lack of exercise.

Race. African-Americans are at higher risk of developing colon cancer.

Type 2 diabetes that isn’t well controlled.

– Tami Motley

About Dr. Robert Ricci

A native of the Kansas City area, Dr. Ricci graduated from the University of Kansas School of Medicine in 1975. He completed his internship, residency and gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City. He is board certified in internal medicine and gastroenterology.

Dr. Ricci is accepting new patients at the CottonO’Neil Digestive Health Center, (785) 270-4800.

To learn more about the Cotton-O’Neil Digestive Health Center and the doctors who care for patients there, go to stormontvail.org/ cottononeil-digestivehealth-center.

Robert Ricci, M.D.

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Calendar MARCH, APRIL AND MAY 2015 SUPPORT & EDUCATION GROUPS Depression and Bi-Polar Support Alliance Sponsored in part by Behavioral Health Services at StormontVail West, meets at 6 p.m. on the first and third Wednesdays of the month at Valeo, 330 S.W. Oakley and at 1:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of the month at the Topeka Public Library, 1515 S.W. 10th Ave. Alzheimer’s Support Groups The Alzheimer’s Association has three caregiver support groups available as well as other support services. Call Alzheimer’s Association at (785) 271-1844 for days and times.

Topeka Celiac Support Group The Topeka Celiac Support Group provides information, support and knowledge of how to eat safely to avoid gluten from grain-based proteins in wheat, rye, barley and possibly oats. Meeting is 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, April 11, at Pozez Education Center. For more information, contact Sharon Larson, president, (785) 379-0479.

Topeka Chapter, The Compassionate Friends Peer-facilitated group offering friendship, hope and support to families who have experienced the death of a child, at any age and from any cause. Fourth Monday of each month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Formation Room of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish Center, 3601 S.W. 17th. Bi-monthly newsletter and three memorial events a year. For more information, call Susan Chan, (785) 554-4895.

“On the Road to Better Managing Your Diabetes” Class In need of an update or “refresher” on your diabetes knowledge and skills? We have just the class you need.

Upcoming class date is Thursday, April 2. Meeting time is 9 to 10:30 a.m. for both dates. Class will be held in the Diabetes Learning Center classroom, lower level of the Cotton-O’Neil Endocrinology Center, 3520 S.W. 6th Ave. Call (785) 368-0416 to reserve a seat. Your insurance will be billed for the cost of attendance.

MOMS: Moms of Multiples Support Support group for parents expecting or parenting multiples. For information about meetings, call Angela at (785) 267-2955.

Living with Diabetes Adult Support Group Meets from 10 to 11 a.m. each Tuesday, except holidays, at the Cotton-O’Neil Diabetes and Endocrinology Center, lower level, 3520 S.W. 6th Ave. A Diabetes Learning Center staff educator facilitates each meeting. There is no fee to attend and no need to pre-register. Call (785) 368-0416 with questions.

Grief and Loss Support Groups Midland Care offers weekly grief and loss support groups available to the public. For more information, call Tim Keogh at (785) 232-2044.

Cancer Support Group Meets Mondays at 11 a.m. to noon in the library of the Stormont-Vail Cancer Center, 1414 S.W. 8th Ave. For more information, call 1-800-354-0091.

Pregnancy and Infant Loss Group First and third Thursdays of the month from 6 to 8 p.m.

Pozez Education Center. For information, call (785) 354-5225.

The Pregnancy and Infant Loss Group, which has regular meetings to share information and experiences, also has a blog for members, which offers communication, resources and support. If you are interested in learning more about the blog, please e-mall lrosen@stormontvail.org

Loved Ones Partnering for Support (Caregivers Group Meets Tuesdays at 2 p.m. in the library of the Stormont-Vail Cancer Center, 1414 S.W. 8th Ave. For more information, call 1-800-354-0091.

Topeka “HEALS” Support Group A confidential peer support group that is also known as Survivors of Suicide, “HEALS” stands for “Healing After Loss by Suicide.” It is for those who have lost a loved one by suicide. First and third Tuesdays of the month in Pozez Education Center at 7 p.m. For more information, call (785) 249-3792.

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Cancer Center Pet Meet and Greet Wednesdays at 10 to 11 a.m. in the lobby of the StormontVail Cancer Center, 1414 S.W. 8th Ave. For more information, call 1-800-354-0091.

Head and Neck Cancer Support Group Affiliated with SPOHNC (Support for People with Head and Neck Cancer). Meets the second Wednesday of the month, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the Stormont-Vail Cancer Center library, 1414 S.W. 8th Ave. For more information, call 1-800-354-0091.

Prostate Cancer Support Group Meets the first Thursday of the month at St. Francis Comprehensive Cancer Center, second floor conference room, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Men who have been recently diagnosed with prostate cancer or been cancer-free for years are invited to attend. Family members welcome. The group is lead by a cancer survivor volunteer. For more information, call (785) 230-4422.

Parents Partnering for Support Support group for parents with children with a diagnosis of cancer. Fourth Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. For location and information, call Leigh Ann at (785) 270-4905.

Tai Chi for Patients and Families of the Stormont-Vail Cancer Center Tai Chi Easy offers physical and mental benefits no matter what your age or physical limitations. Tuesdays at the Stormont-Vail Cancer Center (3:30 p.m. hard, and 4:30 p.m. easy). For more information, call 1-800-354-0091.

Look Good Feel Better Educational Program Program is offered at the Stormont-Vail Cancer Center from noon to 2 p.m. Monday, April 13, and Monday, June 15.

For more information, call 1-800-354-0091 or the American Cancer Society at (785) 273-4462.

Stroke Support Group at KRH A stroke support group is now meeting the first Friday of each month at the Kansas Rehabilitation Hospital. Meetings are 4 to 5 p.m. in the West Dining Hall, first floor. The support group is for patients and families of those who have suffered a stroke. For more information or to RSVP, call Randy Williams at (785) 235-6600, Ext. 553.

FAMILY EDUCATION PROGRAMS To register for Family Education classes, call Health Connections at (785) 354-5225.

And Baby Makes Four or More (for children 5 and older) 6:30 to 8 p.m. • Wednesdays, March 11, April 15 and May 13 • Pozez Education Center $10 per family • Lori Hamilton, occupational therapist This class for potential siblings and their parents includes a tour of The Birthplace, a video presentation and a discussion of what to expect after the baby comes. The special roles of big brother and big sister are explored. Parents are able to address how they can help their older child adjust to the new baby.

And Baby Makes Four or More (for children ages 2 to 4) 6:30 to 8 p.m. • Wednesdays, March 4, April 8 and May 6 • Pozez Education Center • $10 per family Lori Hamilton, occupational therapist

CALENDAR This sibling preparation class includes a tour of The Birthplace and provides structured activities to help young children verbalize their concerns and expectations about when “the new baby come.” This class is for young children who will soon be big brothers and big sisters and their parents.

From Girl to Woman Saturdays, March 7, April 11 and May 2 • 9 a.m. to noon Pozez Education Center • $25 mother/daughter couple Course pre-registration required.

The time in a girl’s life between ages 8 and 12 is one of dramatic physical and emotional changes. This program for girls and their mothers, will address menstruation and other physical changes of puberty, the emotional upheaval of adolescence, and communication techniques for mothers and daughters.

From Boy to Man Saturday, March 7 and April 11 • 9 to 11:30 a.m.

Pozez Education Center • $25 parent/son couple Course pre-registration required.

When we think of puberty and its changes, we usually think of girls and the transition they make, but boys experience puberty, too. While usually starting later than girls, the time in a boy’s life between the ages of 10 and 13 is filled with many physical and emotional changes. These changes are exciting, but often puzzling, sometimes embarrassing, and usually challenging to a young adolescent. Join us for a discussion that will focus on the physiological changes of puberty, the developmental tasks of early adolescence and ways to improve communication between boys and their parents. This class features time for boys and parents together but also time for separate facilitated discussion.

PARENTING PROGRAMS To register for Parenting classes, call Health Connections at (785) 354-5225.

Welcome Baby Sunday, March 8 and April 26 • 2 to 5 p.m. • Pozez Education Center • $15 per family This three-hour class will consist of updated information for the whole family. Such topics include an overview of pregnancy with strategies to deal with common discomforts, intro to labor and birth, what to expect, choices and options during labor and delivery.

In addition, baby care, including car seat information, a gift bag and community resources will be provided. Finally, adjustment to parenthood and grandparenthood will also be covered in this class.

Mothers are welcome to bring their support person, family or a friend who provides support during their pregnancy and beyond.

Childbirth Preparation I: For New Parents Please visit us online at www.stormontvail.org for class dates and times • Pozez Education Center • Weekday evening and weekend classes available • $60 (payable at the first class)

Learn breathing and relaxation skills plus information is provided on other pain control measures. Included is information on late pregnancy, labor and birth, early parenting experience and a tour of The Birthplace. Classes are taught by experienced instructors and are tailored to the adult learner with plenty of opportunity for individuals and couples to explore their own personal needs. Dress comfortably and bring two pillows. eLearning Online Childbirth Education Program eLearning Online Childbirth Education Program is an alternative for those parents who cannot attend conventional prenatal classes due to bed rest, scheduling conflicts or time constraints. It is an interactive web-based program that includes animated illustrations, videos and voice-overs. It can be viewed on a PC or Mac. High speed Internet is advised, but dial-up will work; it will take longer to download.

Upon registration, we will send you a code to access the class. Once you log in with the code issued, you have six weeks to complete the information at your own pace. The fee also includes a tour of the Birthplace. Visit us at www.stormontvail. org to register.

Childbirth Preparation I: For Parents Having Cesarean Sections Please visit us online at www.stormontvail.org for class dates and times • $30 (payable at the first class) Whether this is your first cesarean section or you are having a repeat cesarean section, your delivery is an event we would like to help you prepare for. You will find out what to expect from admission to dismissal. We will watch films, show slides, have open discussion, practice breathing and relaxation techniques, and tour The Birthplace.

Birthing with Confidence Please visit us online at www.stormontvail.org for class dates and times • Pozez Education Center • Weekday evening and weekend classes available • $60 (payable at the first class) This class is designed for woman and their support person who would like an in depth exploration of alternative ways to deal with the pain of labor besides epidurals and IV pain medications. The instructors, who have many years of experience with laboring women will help the participants to be aware of their strengths and abilities to cope with the process of labor and the strategies that are effective for pain control.

There will be opportunities to examine potential barriers to reaching individual goals and methods to overcome those barriers in order to achieve their unique goals. This class series is interactive and uses videos, games and more to prepare you and help you understand that birth is a normal, natural, and healthy process.

Breastfeeding Basics First Tuesday of each month (except for holidays) 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. • Tuesdays, March 3, April 7 and May 5 Pozez Education Center • $10 This informal introduction to breastfeeding provides pregnant women and their families an opportunity to learn all they need to know about breastfeeding before their babies are born. Classes are designed to help families prepare for their breastfeeding experience by providing information on how breastfeeding works, how to get started, problems that may arise and how to incorporate breastfeeding and working.

Pumping for your Baby Second and fourth Thursdays • 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Breastfeeding Clinic, Stormont-Vail Regional Health Center • Free Designed for women planning to work outside of the home or for those who are breastfeeding but want the flexibility to be away from their baby. This class is designed for mothers who have delivered. Mothers who are at least 2-3 weeks postpartum would benefit most from this class. We will provide information and options for expressing milk from the breast. We’ll address breast pumps and how to choose one, pumping techniques, milk storage and maintaining adequate milk production. For the mom working outside of the home, we also will explore issues of time management, negotiating with employers and relationships with co-workers. We’ll also discuss the very important role childcare providers play in breastfeeding success and methods of feeding breast milk to infants. Babies welcome, pre-registration not required.

Join Us: Welcome Baby Jubilee Stormont-Vail invites pregnant and soon-to-be pregnant couples to an open house that showcases the services and amenities that the Birthplace and the Neonatal IntensiveCare (NIC) provide women and their families during the labor and delivery process.

Refreshments, tours, door prizes and information on Birthplace services and classes are provided. Physicians and other staff will be on hand to answer your questions about pregnancy and infant care. Vendors and other community resource representatives will be present.

Pregnant and soon-to-be pregnant couples are welcome to drop by anytime during the open house. Enter for a chance to win $250 gift card to Babies R Us or Medela Breast Pump. Visit stormontvail.org for details. To attend the Jubilee, please click “I’m Attending” on the Stormont-Vail HealthCare Facebook event page or e-mail us at marketing@stormontvail.org

Mark Your Calendar for Welcome Baby Jubilee: Please join us from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 18, at Pozez Education Center, 1505 S.W. 8th Ave. (Stormont-Vail’s main campus). Please park in the parking garage.

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CALENDAR

HealthWise 55 Programs March, April and May 2015

HealthWise 55 is an organization sponsored by Stormont-Vail HealthCare for those 55 years of age and older who want to stay current on health information and health resources. Membership is free. For information about joining HealthWise 55, a packet of exercise information and reservations for Senior Suppers, Lunch Bunch and coffees, call Health Connections at Stormont-Vail at (785) 354-5225. For clinic information and appointments, call (785) 354-6787.

Senior Supper Information Reservations - Call (785) 354-5225. Please provide a name and phone number for each person attending.

To help us have an accurate count, please call for reservations or cancellations by Thursday before each program. We understand this isn’t always possible.

Thank you for your consideration.

Parking - Please enter through Stormont-Vail HealthCare Main Entrance. Volunteers will be available with mobility assistance, if requested.

We offer an alternative parking solution to those attending Senior Suppers. Aldersgate Village and Brewster Place offer free transportation from the parking lot of Grace Episcopal Cathedral (West side of parking area) to the Main Entrance of StormontVail HealthCare. The bus will be in the parking lot at 4:45 p.m. and leave at 5 p.m. Let Health Connections know you are utilizing this option when you make your Senior Supper reservation.

Aging Urology Lunch Bunch • Thornton Place • Monday, March 2 • 11:45 a.m., presentation with lunch to follow at 12:30 p.m. • Speaker: Megan Hayes, PT Free • Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Healthy Eating to Nourish Your Body Koffee Klatch • Aldersgate Village • Thursday, March 5 • 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. • Speaker: Sydney Messick, RD, LD • Free • Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Spring 2015 Vol. 12, No. 2 Healthy Times is a local, community newsletter providing information on health care concerns, issues and interests for you and those you love. Published quarterly by Stormont-Vail HealthCare, 1500 S.W. 10th Ave., Topeka, KS 66604-1353, www.stormontvail.org

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HealthWise 55 Program Update-Clinics, Resources and Programs to Help You Live a Healthy Life Senior Supper • Pozez Education Center • Monday, March 9 • 5 to 6:30 p.m. • Speaker: Dana DobbieBlindt, RNC, CHC • $5 • Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Aging Urology Dessert and Coffee • Arbor Court • Wednesday, March 11 • 2 to 3 p.m. • Speaker: Megan Hayes, PT Free • Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Healthy Eating to Nourish Your Body Lunch Bunch • Presbyterian Manor • Thursday, March 12 • 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. • Speaker: Sydney Messick, RD, LD • $5 per person Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Pathways Through the Pain and Stress of Serious Illness Dessert and Coffee • Lexington Park Independent Living • Monday, March 16 • 2 to 3 p.m.

Speaker: Gary Robertson, LSCSW • Free Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Healthy Eating to Nourish Your Body Lunch Bunch • Brewster Place • Tuesday, March 17 • 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Speaker: Mary Alice Scheer, RD, LD, CDE $5 • Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Healthy Eating to Nourish Your Body Koffee Klatch • First Apartments • Monday, March 23 • 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. • Speaker: Mary Alice Scheer, RD, LD, CDE • Free Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Healthy Eating to Nourish Your Body Dessert and Coffee • McCrites Independent Living Tuesday, March 24 • 2 to 3 p.m. • Speaker: Mary Alice Scheer, RD, LD, CDE • Free Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Aging Urology Dessert and Coffee • Atria Hearthstone • Wednesday, March 25 • 2 to 3 p.m. • Speaker: Megan Hayes, PT Free • Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Nutrition for Healing Injured Skin Koffee Klatch • Aldersgate Village • Thursday, April 2 • 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. • Speaker: Mary Alice Scheer, RD, LD, CDE • Free • Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Healthy Eating to Nourish Your Body Lunch Bunch • Thornton Place • Monday, April 6 11:45 a.m., presentation with lunch to follow at 12:30 p.m. • Speaker: Mary Alice Scheer, RD, LD, CDE • Free • Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Hospitalists-Dedicated to Compassionate, Comprehensive Medical Care to our Hospitalized Patients Senior Supper • Pozez Education Center • Monday, April 6 • 5:15 to 6:30 p.m. • Speaker: Kevin Dishman, M.D. • Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Healthy Eating to Nourish Your Body Dessert and Coffee • Arbor Court • Wednesday, April 8 • 2 to 3 p.m. • Speaker: Sydney Messick, RD, LD • Free • Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Pathways Through the Pain and Stress of Serious Illness Lunch Bunch • Presbyterian Manor • Thursday, April 9 • 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. • Speaker: Gary Robertson, LSCSW • $5 • Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Healthy Eating to Nourish Your Body Dessert and Coffee • Lexington Park Independent Living • Monday, April 20 • 2 to 3 p.m.

Speaker: Mary Alice Scheer, RD, LD, CDE • Free Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Pathways Through the Pain and Stress of Serious Illness Lunch Bunch • Brewster Place Main Building Tuesday, April 21 • 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Speaker: Gary Robertson, LSCSW • $5 Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Design: jones huyett Partners

Editor: Anita Miller Fry Advisers/Contributors: Melissa Moore, R.D., L.D. Nancy Burkhardt Tami Motley Carol L. Wheeler, RN, BSN, FACHE

Niki Maloney Linda Ruiz Lenora Kinzie, MLS Lesa Roberts, MPH, RN

To receive your free subscription to Healthy Times, call (785) 354-5225.

CALENDAR

Healthy Eating to Nourish Your Body Dessert and Coffee • Atria Hearthstone Wednesday, April 22 • 2 to 3 p.m. • Speaker: Sydney Messick, RD, LD • Free • Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Nutrition for Healing Injured Skin Koffee Klatch • First Apartments • Monday, April 27 • 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. • Speaker: Mary Alice Scheer, RD, LD, CDE • Free • Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Nutrition for Healing Injured Skin Dessert and Coffee • McCrites Independent Living Tuesday, April 28 • 2 to 3 p.m. • Speaker: Mary Alice Scheer, RD, LD, CDE • Free • Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Exercise-For More Than Weight Loss Lunch Bunch • Thornton Place • Monday, May 4 11:45 a.m., presentation with lunch to follow at 12:30 p.m. • Speaker: Deeann Boydston • Free Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Pathways Through the Pain and Stress of Serious Illness Koffee Klatch • Aldersgate Village • Thursday, May 7 • 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. • Free • Speaker: Gary Robertson, LSCSW • Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Celebrate Older Americans Month Topeka Trailblazers Senior Supper • Pozez Education Center • Monday, May 11 • 5:15 to 6:30 p.m. • Speakers: Anita Wolgast and Beth Fager $5 • Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Exercise-For More Than Weight Loss Dessert and Coffee • Arbor Court • Wednesday, May 13 • 2 to 3 p.m. • Speaker: Deeann Boydston Free • Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Senior Car Fit Check Lane AAA Partnering with HealthWise 55 Grace Episcopal Cathedral parking lot, 701 S.W. 8th Ave. • Wednesday, May 13 • 9 a.m. to Noon Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Exercise-For More Than Weight Loss Lunch Bunch • Presbyterian Manor • Thursday, May 14 • 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. • Speaker: Deeann Boydston • $5 • Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Exercise-For More Than Weight Loss Dessert and Coffee • Lexington Park Independent Living • Monday, May 18 • 2 to 3 p.m.

Speaker: Deeann Boydston • Free Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Exercise-For More Than Weight Loss Lunch Bunch • Brewster Place Main Building Tuesday, May 19 • 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Speaker: Deeann Boydston • $5 • Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Exercise-For More Than Weight Loss Dessert and Coffee • McCrites Independent Living Tuesday, May 26 • 2 to 3 p.m. • Speaker: Deeann Boydston • Free • Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

Exercise-For More Than Weight Loss Dessert and Coffee • Atria Hearthstone • Wednesday, May 27 • 2 to 3 p.m. • Speaker: Deeann Boydston Free • Reservations: (785) 354-5225.

HEALTHWISE 55 CLINICS The Health Wise 55 Resource Center hours are 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday. The office is located at 2252 S.W. 10th Ave. #B, Topeka, Kan. For appointments and information on clinical services, please call (785) 354-6787.

Blood Pressure Clinics • Free • No appointment necessary • Call (785) 354-6787 for more information. Walk-ins are welcome at the following locations: • Every Tuesday • 10 a.m. to noon • HealthWise 55 Resource Center, 2252 S.W. 10th Ave. #B • First Tuesday • 9 to 10:30 a.m. • West Ridge Mall (Food Court, Restroom Entrance), 1801 S.W. Wanamaker Rd. • Second Thursday • 9:30 to 11:00 a.m.

Southwest YMCA, 3635 S.W. Chelsea • Third Thursday • 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. • Oakland Community Center, 801 N.E. Poplar • Third Thursday • 9 to 10 a.m. • Rose Hill Place, 37th and Gage • Fourth Thursday • 9 to 10:30 a.m. • Kuehne Branch (North) YMCA, 1936 N. Tyler St. SHICK (Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansans) Counseling • For questions and assistance with Medicare, Supplemental, Long Term Care Insurance or the Medicare Prescription Drug Program HealthWise 55 Resource Center • Free Call (785) 354-6787 for times and appointment.

Medication Clinics • Every Wednesday • Bring questions to our trained pharmacy staff regarding your medications (prescriptions or over-the-counter) 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. • HealthWise 55 Resource Center Free • Call (785) 354-6787 for an appointment.

Zostavax Clinics • Every Tuesday and Thursday Ask your primary care doctor if you are a candidate for the shingles vaccine. (Prescription Required) 8 a.m. to noon • HealthWise 55 Resource Center Call (785) 354-6787 for an appointment.

Information and Referral • Assistance to help connect you with resources in the community Free • HealthWise 55 Resource Center • Call (785) 354-5225 for assistance.

AARP DRIVING PROGRAM AARP Smart Driver Course • Tuesday and Wednesday, May 19 and 20 • 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Pozez Education Center • (NEW PRICES) $15 per person for AARP members, $20 per person for non-members of AARP • (Must bring your AARP membership card at time of registration. Bring your HealthWise 55 membership card for a discount in the Food Connection if you plan to eat lunch at Stormont-Vail) • Registration: (785) 354-5225.

HEALTHWISE 55 EXERCISE •

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HealthWise 55 exercise group meets in the Pozez Education Center every Tuesday and Thursday, 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Included in the schedule: chair aerobics, strength training, balance and flexibility. Cost is $25 for 20 times.

YMCA Exercise Programs with special rates for HealthWise 55 members.

Great Life Golf and Fitness with special rates for HealthWise 55 members. The YWCA and many other locations are managed by Great Life. A list of locations is included in the packet.

Kansas Rehabilitation Hospital offers aquatic exercises classes, Wavemakers and Tai Chi. Healthy Steps: A walking program sponsored by Stormont-Vail HealthCare and West Ridge Mall.

Call Health Connections at (785) 354-5225 to have a packet of information mailed to you regarding these exercise programs.

HEALTHWISE 55 LINE-UP ON TV The following HealthWise 55 television programs are available on WIBW-TV, Channel 13.

HealthWise After 55 “HealthWise After 55” airs from 9 to 9:30 a.m. the first and third Fridays of each month. It offers interviews on health topics of interest to seniors as well as the 20-minute exercise segment. Sponsors are AAA Travel and Insurance, and Aldersgate Village. for Family Caregivers “for Family Caregivers” airs the second and fourth Fridays of each month from 9 to 9:30 a.m. The show highlights information for people who are providing caregiving services to loved ones and a 20-minute exercise segment for caregivers and their loved one. Sponsors are Brewster Place, Caregivers Home Health Care and Jayhawk Patient Supply. The Exercise Programs are sponsored by Topeka Ear, Nose and Throat.

Nutrition Clinics • Every Wednesday • Meet with a Registered Dietician to discuss your nutrition needs and questions • Free • HealthWise 55 Resource Center • Call (785) 354-6787 for times and appointment.

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MEDICAL NEWS

3D Mammography 3D Mammography, the most exciting advancement in mammography in over 30 years, will soon be available at the Jane C. Stormont Women’s Health Center. 3D Mammography uses high-powered computing to convert digital breast images into a stack of very thin layers or slices – building what is essentially a 3-dimensional mammogram. This new technology will enable better imaging of the breast, especially for women who have denser breast tissue. Look for this new technology in Spring 2015.

The Jane C. Stormont Women’s Health Center offers digital breast cancer screening (mammography) and osteoporosis evaluations. Appointments are scheduled Monday through Friday by calling (785) 354-5960. The Jane C. Stormont Women’s Health Center is located at 823 S.W. Mulvane, Ste. 102 in Topeka.