INDIANAPOLIS – Growing up on a cattle farm in Morgan County prepared Nathan K. Lowder well for caring for humans wherever he might go in life.
The path he took was to a multi-layered career in nursing, beginning at St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers in 1997. Today, he manages the hospital system’s emergency department at Mooresville, working side by side with other professionals who often are on the frontlines of myriad physical, mental and emotional trauma.
“My parents brought me up to respect and to help others,” said Lowder. “If another farmer needed help, we were always there to lend a hand any way we could. This has stuck with me into my nursing career because I give100 percent in my job of taking care of patients and their families.”
It is this attitude and his top-notch professionalism that earned Lowder the Nurse of the Year Award from the Indianapolis Star-sponsored 2010 Salute to Nurses program. Lowder was feted by hundreds of his colleagues throughout the state today (April 28) during a luncheon and ceremony at the Indiana Convention Center.
More than 962 nominations – 72 of whom were St. Francis nurses – were submitted for this year’s program, now in its eighth year.
Lowder says he has had many role models in nursing, but one person truly stands out.
“The one nurse who has made the greatest impact on me has to be my wife, Melissa, who is a clinical nurse specialist at our Mooresville hospital,” he said. “She’s my real inspiration because I see first-hand what she does for patients.”
The Salute to Nurses Program states: “Every day in the Star, we share stories of people who serve as an inspiration to others. Salute to Nurses celebrates the nursing professionals who are truly an inspiration to all. In this time of staffing shortages and increasing demands, our honorees have found ways to go above and beyond in providing care and comfort to their patients and their patients' families.”
Indeed, going “above and beyond” is an understatement when you take a sweeping look at Lowder’s career. A certified ER nurse, he holds active memberships in several professional organizations; serves on various emergency response and nurse teams and committees at St. Francis and in Morgan County; has worked as an emergency flight nurse; continuously served as a mentor and preceptor to fledgling nurses; and is a volunteer firefighter and medic.
And by the way – Lowder spends his “free time” raising 350 head of beef cattle on the family farm in Morgan County. When you’re caring for that many creatures, it’s a seven-day-a-week job.
But he has no beef with that responsibility.
“I’ve been doing this all my life, and I handle all the medical care for the animals,” he said, adding that it’s also an opportunity to get his 5-year-old daughter heading in the right direction. “I want her to be as well-rounded as possible so that she can handle any situation that arises later in life.”
There are 1,450 nurses at St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers. Visitors to a newly launched Web site (www.stfrancishospitals.org/nursing) can learn what nursing is like, and what opportunities exist, at its hospitals in Indianapolis, Beech Grove and Mooresville.
In fact, several nurses, including Melissa Lowder, share their stories in a special video section on the site, which showcases their work experiences.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
St. Francis-Mooresville ER nurse earns top honor as ‘Nurse of the Year’
INDIANAPOLIS – Growing up on a cattle farm in Morgan County prepared Nathan K. Lowder well for caring for humans wherever he might go in life.
The path he took was to a multi-layered career in nursing, beginning at St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers in 1997. Today, he manages the hospital system’s emergency department at Mooresville, working side by side with other professionals who often are on the frontlines of myriad physical, mental and emotional trauma.
The path he took was to a multi-layered career in nursing, beginning at St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers in 1997. Today, he manages the hospital system’s emergency department at Mooresville, working side by side with other professionals who often are on the frontlines of myriad physical, mental and emotional trauma.
Nathan Lowder was escorted to the front when learning he was the recipient of Community Outreach Award. Then moments later, he was announced as the Nurse of the Year winner.
“My parents brought me up to respect and to help others,” said Lowder. “If another farmer needed help, we were always there to lend a hand any way we could. This has stuck with me into my nursing career because I give100 percent in my job of taking of patients and their families.”
It is this attitude and his top-notch professionalism that earned Lowder the Nurse of the Year Award from the Indianapolis Star-sponsored 2010 Salute to Nurses program. Lowder was feted by hundreds of his colleagues throughout the state today (April 28) during a luncheon and ceremony at the Indiana Convention Center.
More than 962 nominations – 72 of whom were St. Francis nurses – were submitted for this year’s program, now in its eighth year.
Lowder says he has had many role models in nursing, but one person truly stands out.
“The one nurse who has made the greatest impact on me has to be my wife, Melissa, who is a clinical nurse specialist at our Mooresville hospital,” he said. “She’s my real inspiration because I see first-hand what she does for patients.”
The Salute to Nurses Program states: “Every day in the Star, we share stories of people who serve as an inspiration to others. Salute to Nurses celebrates the nursing professionals who are truly an inspiration to all. In this time of staffing shortages and increasing demands, our honorees have found ways to go above and beyond in providing care and comfort to their patients and their patients' families.”
Indeed, going “above and beyond” is an understatement when you take a sweeping look at Lowder’s career. A certified ER nurse, he holds active memberships in several professional organizations; serves on various emergency response and nurse teams and committees at St. Francis and in Morgan County; has worked as an emergency flight nurse; continuously served as a mentor and preceptor to fledgling nurses; and is a volunteer firefighter and medic.
And by the way – Lowder spends his “free time” raising 350 head of beef cattle on the family farm in Morgan County. When you’re caring for that many creatures, it’s a seven-day-a-week job.
But he has no beef with that responsibility.
“I’ve been doing this all my life, and I handle all the medical care for the animals,” he said, adding that it’s also an opportunity to get his 5-year-old daughter heading in the right direction. “I want her to be as well-rounded as possible so that she can handle any situation that arises later in life.”
There are 1,450 nurses at St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers. Visitors to a newly launched Web site (www.stfrancishospitals.org/nursing) can learn what nursing is like, and what opportunities exist, at its hospitals in Indianapolis, Beech Grove and Mooresville.
In fact, several nurses, including Melissa Lowder, share their stories in a special video section on the site, which showcases their work experiences.
Golf outing takes swing in support of St. Francis Healthcare Foundation projects
FRANKLIN, Ind. – The rolling fairways and sprawling greens of The Legends of Indiana Golf Course again will be the setting of the 2010 Golf Outing sponsored by the St. Francis Healthcare Foundation.
The event, now in its 24th year, brings together board members, Indianapolis-area civic and business leaders, and St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers physicians and staff for a full day of golf, fellowship and fun with the goal of raising funds for various foundation projects.
The outing gets under way 8 a.m. Thursday, June 24 with a shotgun start with afternoon golfers teeing it up at 1:30 p.m. Participants also will be offered breakfast and a joint luncheon.
Throughout the day, various products and services – generously donated by local individuals and businesses – will be auctioned.
Co-chairs of this year’s event are foundation board members Travis Tucker of BremnerDuke Healthcare Real Estate, and Christopher “Topper” Doehring, M.D., associate director of the St. Francis Family Residency Medical Program.
Proceeds from the outing support the foundation’s funding mission and priorities in areas such as care for the dying, underserved and those in spiritual need, and the professional development of staff.
For more information about the 2010 Golf Outing, contact Caitlin Leahy at Caitlin.leahy@ssfhs.org
The St. Francis Healthcare Foundation was established in 1995 as a separate corporation to help advance the mission of the Sisters of St. Francis Health Services, specifically the service area of St. Francis Hospital & Heath Centers.
More information about the foundation is at www.stfrancishospitals.org/Foundation.
The event, now in its 24th year, brings together board members, Indianapolis-area civic and business leaders, and St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers physicians and staff for a full day of golf, fellowship and fun with the goal of raising funds for various foundation projects.
The outing gets under way 8 a.m. Thursday, June 24 with a shotgun start with afternoon golfers teeing it up at 1:30 p.m. Participants also will be offered breakfast and a joint luncheon.
Throughout the day, various products and services – generously donated by local individuals and businesses – will be auctioned.
Co-chairs of this year’s event are foundation board members Travis Tucker of BremnerDuke Healthcare Real Estate, and Christopher “Topper” Doehring, M.D., associate director of the St. Francis Family Residency Medical Program.
Proceeds from the outing support the foundation’s funding mission and priorities in areas such as care for the dying, underserved and those in spiritual need, and the professional development of staff.
For more information about the 2010 Golf Outing, contact Caitlin Leahy at Caitlin.leahy@ssfhs.org
The St. Francis Healthcare Foundation was established in 1995 as a separate corporation to help advance the mission of the Sisters of St. Francis Health Services, specifically the service area of St. Francis Hospital & Heath Centers.
More information about the foundation is at www.stfrancishospitals.org/Foundation.
South side family physicians now members of St. Francis Medical Group
INDIANAPOLIS – Four physicians at Southeast Family Medicine have joined the St. Francis Medical Group, which has grown to more than 120 doctors.
They are Eileen Thomason, M.D., Jason Rieser, M.D., Richard Rejer, M.D., and Brian Miles, M.D. All are active faculty members for the St. Francis Family Medicine Residency Program and board-certified in family medicine.
The four physicians all completed their residencies at St. Francis and all earned their medical degrees at the Indiana University School of Medicine.
Southeast Family Medicine, located at 5136 E. Stop 11 Road, Suite 30, offers a full spectrum of care for children, adults and seniors. Office hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. To make an appointment, call 317-887-1060.
They are Eileen Thomason, M.D., Jason Rieser, M.D., Richard Rejer, M.D., and Brian Miles, M.D. All are active faculty members for the St. Francis Family Medicine Residency Program and board-certified in family medicine.
The four physicians all completed their residencies at St. Francis and all earned their medical degrees at the Indiana University School of Medicine.
Southeast Family Medicine, located at 5136 E. Stop 11 Road, Suite 30, offers a full spectrum of care for children, adults and seniors. Office hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. To make an appointment, call 317-887-1060.
From left, Drs. Rejer, Thomason, Miles and Rieser.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
St. Francis doctor honored for professionalism, compassionate care
Dr. Max Runkle is surrounded by his colleagues and staff at Gray Road Family Medicine after receiving St. Francis' first Healing Hands Award.INDIANAPOLIS – A physician whose career has been affiliated with St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers for more than three decades is the first recipient of the hospital’s Healing Hands Award.
Max Runkle, M.D., was recognized by St. Francis leadership April 26 at his Gray Road Family Medicine office on the city’s south side. A member of St. Francis Medical Group, Runkle has been affiliated with St. Francis since 1979.
“St. Francis is blessed to have some many wonderful people on its professional staff, and certainly Dr. Runkle is one who has dedicated his career to his patients,” said Alan Gillespie, M.D., chief medical officer and vice president. “His clinical service and the compassionate care he gives are in keeping with the highest values of St. Francis Hospital.”
With his office staff and colleagues looking on, Runkle was presented with a personally engraved crystal award and plaques, the latter of which will be on display at St. Francis’ hospitals in Indianapolis, Beech Grove and Mooresville.
Also attending the ceremony was Glenn Loomis, M.D., president of St. Francis Medical Group.
Runkle, who completed his residency at St. Francis in 1979, earned his medical degree at Indiana University School of Medicine. He is a member of the American Association of Family Medicine and the Indiana State Medical Association.
The Healing Hands Award, which will be awarded quarterly, was established earlier this year. Its goal is to recognize St. Francis physicians for excellence in clinical skills,
patient relations, research, stewardship and their reflection of the hospital’s health-care ministry, values and mission.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
New Web site reveals real-life nursing stories, opportunities at St. Francis
INDIANAPOLIS – For most in the field, nursing is far more than a career. It’s a calling that blends professionalism with compassion to care for patients.Those two qualities are paramount among the 1,450 nurses at St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers. And visitors to a newly launched Web site can learn what nursing is like and what opportunities exist at St. Francis’ hospitals in Indianapolis, Beech Grove and Mooresville.
Produced by the hospital’s Community Relations and Marketing Department and Nursing Operations, the Web has more than 70 pages and nearly 30 videos showcasing nurses from those early in their career through senior leadership.
The new site offers valuable information for nurses and nursing students considering a career at St. Francis Hospital, including unit information, specialty training, mentoring and professional development opportunities.
“For me and my colleagues, nursing is a ministry, and we’re proud so many have answered the call by choosing St. Francis as their professional home,” said Susan McRoberts, chief nursing officer and vice president.
To learn more about nursing at St. Francis, visit www.stfrancishospitals.org/nursing.
Diagnosis, evaluation of painful muscle condition treatable
INDIANAPOLIS – Aches and pains can seem inevitable as we age, and arthritis usually gets the blame. But if you wake up one morning and your neck, shoulders or hips are suddenly so stiff you can barely move, you may have a different problem – polymyalgia rheumatica.
This condition, also called PMR, triggers inflammation of the muscles and tissues around joints. The cause is not known. Although PMR sometimes starts slowly, it’s more likely to develop quickly over just a few days or weeks. Some patients report feeling as if “run over by a truck.”
The pain and stiffness from PMR:
Occurs most often in the neck, shoulders and hips. The lower back, buttocks and thighs also may be affected, but lower arms and legs usually are not.
Are usually worse in the morning and may make it hard to get out of bed.
Make it difficult to get dressed, especially to put on a sweater or jacket.
Get worse when you’re inactive for a while, such as during a long car ride.
You’re not likely to get PMR if you’re under age 50. However, after that it becomes increasingly common, especially among women 70 and older. Along with these symptoms, people with PMR may have numbness or tingling in the fingers, fatigue, weight loss or a slight fever.
These symptoms can make it tough to get through the day, and some people become depressed.
There is no single imaging or laboratory test that can identify PMR with certainty. Moreover, it may resemble other diseases with similar symptoms, such as rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, shoulder tendonitis or infection.
To make the diagnosis, your doctor will consider your symptoms and do a physical exam. Two blood tests can help confirm the diagnosis – one checks your erythrocyte sedimentation rate; the other, your C-reactive protein. Both measure inflammation in the body, which, however, also can be increased by other conditions.
PMR is treated with prednisone, which controls inflammation and relieves symptoms. For most people, symptoms completely resolve within a week with treatment. If symptoms aren’t relieved quickly by prednisone, other illnesses have to be considered.
According to Stefan Monev, M.D., a rheumatologist with St. Francis Medical Group, a comprehensive evaluation is required to make a confident diagnosis of PMR before committing patients to a long course of steroid therapy, which may be associated with side effects.
The prednisone dose is gradually tapered and adjusted to the lowest amount that controls your symptoms. Most people can stop taking prednisone after one to two years. Mild to moderate exercise can help you maintain your muscle strength while you’re healing.
In a small proportion of patients with PMR, a more serious condition, temporal arteritis, may develop. It causes inflammation of the blood vessels and can lead to blockage of a vessel feeding the eye and result in vision loss. Symptoms include pain in the temples, pain when chewing and visual changes.
Establishing diagnosis requires clinical evaluation, blood tests and often a biopsy of the vessel in front of the ear. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to decrease the risk of visual impairment. The treatment is also with prednisone, but it requires higher doses.
More information about PMR can be found at http://stfrancishospitals.adam.com/content.aspx?productId=117&pid=1&gid=000415.
To learn more about rheumatology services at St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers, go to www.stfrancishospitals.org/SFMG/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=193.
This condition, also called PMR, triggers inflammation of the muscles and tissues around joints. The cause is not known. Although PMR sometimes starts slowly, it’s more likely to develop quickly over just a few days or weeks. Some patients report feeling as if “run over by a truck.”
The pain and stiffness from PMR:
Occurs most often in the neck, shoulders and hips. The lower back, buttocks and thighs also may be affected, but lower arms and legs usually are not.
Are usually worse in the morning and may make it hard to get out of bed.
Make it difficult to get dressed, especially to put on a sweater or jacket.
Get worse when you’re inactive for a while, such as during a long car ride.
You’re not likely to get PMR if you’re under age 50. However, after that it becomes increasingly common, especially among women 70 and older. Along with these symptoms, people with PMR may have numbness or tingling in the fingers, fatigue, weight loss or a slight fever.
These symptoms can make it tough to get through the day, and some people become depressed.
There is no single imaging or laboratory test that can identify PMR with certainty. Moreover, it may resemble other diseases with similar symptoms, such as rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, shoulder tendonitis or infection.
To make the diagnosis, your doctor will consider your symptoms and do a physical exam. Two blood tests can help confirm the diagnosis – one checks your erythrocyte sedimentation rate; the other, your C-reactive protein. Both measure inflammation in the body, which, however, also can be increased by other conditions.
PMR is treated with prednisone, which controls inflammation and relieves symptoms. For most people, symptoms completely resolve within a week with treatment. If symptoms aren’t relieved quickly by prednisone, other illnesses have to be considered.
According to Stefan Monev, M.D., a rheumatologist with St. Francis Medical Group, a comprehensive evaluation is required to make a confident diagnosis of PMR before committing patients to a long course of steroid therapy, which may be associated with side effects.
The prednisone dose is gradually tapered and adjusted to the lowest amount that controls your symptoms. Most people can stop taking prednisone after one to two years. Mild to moderate exercise can help you maintain your muscle strength while you’re healing.
In a small proportion of patients with PMR, a more serious condition, temporal arteritis, may develop. It causes inflammation of the blood vessels and can lead to blockage of a vessel feeding the eye and result in vision loss. Symptoms include pain in the temples, pain when chewing and visual changes.
Establishing diagnosis requires clinical evaluation, blood tests and often a biopsy of the vessel in front of the ear. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to decrease the risk of visual impairment. The treatment is also with prednisone, but it requires higher doses.
More information about PMR can be found at http://stfrancishospitals.adam.com/content.aspx?productId=117&pid=1&gid=000415.
To learn more about rheumatology services at St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers, go to www.stfrancishospitals.org/SFMG/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=193.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Southside kitchen showcase offers side order of cooking tips
FRANKLIN, Ind. – The inaugural Southside Cooking Showcase, presented by St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers and Clark Appliance, will offer some palatable treats and cooking tips, Wednesday, April 21.
Sponsored by the Johnson County Daily Journal and South magazine, the event is 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Franklin Cultural Arts and Recreation Center, 396 Branigin Blvd.
Chef Will Osgood, owner of Piper’s Café and Grand Manor, and Richard Goss of Richard’s Kitchen, will share cooking and recipe tips, and visitors will have the opportunity to peruse vendor booths. Cookbooks also will given out, courtesy of the chefs.
Admission is free.
Sponsored by the Johnson County Daily Journal and South magazine, the event is 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Franklin Cultural Arts and Recreation Center, 396 Branigin Blvd.
Chef Will Osgood, owner of Piper’s Café and Grand Manor, and Richard Goss of Richard’s Kitchen, will share cooking and recipe tips, and visitors will have the opportunity to peruse vendor booths. Cookbooks also will given out, courtesy of the chefs.
Admission is free.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Docs vs.Jocks vs. Drugs: April 16, 2010
Fleet-footed Franciscan physicians prevail over run-and-gun Roncalli Rebels
And when the final horn sounded, St. Francis Hospital doctors bested Roncalli High School's hand-picked squad, 73-62, in the annual Docs vs. Jocks vs.Drugs charity basketball game. But the real winner was students, who will benefit from the game's proceeds.
Roncalli's Jr. ROTC Color Guard stands tall before the game gets under way.
Jimmy "Mad Dog" Matis (with microphone) and Bob Willsey called the game offering keen if not often irreverent observations.
"Elvis" entered the building -- rather the Roncalli gym -- then quickly transformed in Dr. Don McMahon at tip-off.
The Roncalli team (white) battles it out with St. Francis for a rebound in a close first half.
Roncalli Principal Chuck Weisenbach (l) competed with St. Francis CEO Bob Brody at the free-throw line. Backers pledged money for each bucket they nailed.
Roncalli's show choir performs at center court during half time.
Dr. Don Kerner presents Roncalli Junior Emily Looney with a plaque recognizing her for designing the 2010 Docs vs. Jocks program. Kerner originated the charity fundraising event.
A loyal St. Francis fan shows her support.
The scoreboard doesn't show it -- but the real winners are those who will benefit from Roncalli's drug/alcohol/tobacco awareness programs.
And when the final horn sounded, St. Francis Hospital doctors bested Roncalli High School's hand-picked squad, 73-62, in the annual Docs vs. Jocks vs.Drugs charity basketball game. But the real winner was students, who will benefit from the game's proceeds.
From tip-off to end, it was a run-and-gun showdown between the two teams. And it marked the third time St. Francis and Roncalli had met since Docs vs. Jocks began 24 years ago. You can read more about the program in a recent Indianapolis Star article at http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=20104010455
This meeting was pivotal: St. Francis and Roncalli have met on two other occasions with each squad having a win.
The annual game has visited high school courts all over south-central Indiana, raising students’ awareness of the dangers of drug use and abuse. The program has raised more than $110,000 since its inception.
The annual game has visited high school courts all over south-central Indiana, raising students’ awareness of the dangers of drug use and abuse. The program has raised more than $110,000 since its inception.
The St. Francis squad warms up before tip-off.
Roncalli's Jr. ROTC Color Guard stands tall before the game gets under way.
Jimmy "Mad Dog" Matis (with microphone) and Bob Willsey called the game offering keen if not often irreverent observations.
"Elvis" entered the building -- rather the Roncalli gym -- then quickly transformed in Dr. Don McMahon at tip-off.
The Roncalli team (white) battles it out with St. Francis for a rebound in a close first half.
Roncalli Principal Chuck Weisenbach (l) competed with St. Francis CEO Bob Brody at the free-throw line. Backers pledged money for each bucket they nailed.
Roncalli's show choir performs at center court during half time.
Dr. Don Kerner presents Roncalli Junior Emily Looney with a plaque recognizing her for designing the 2010 Docs vs. Jocks program. Kerner originated the charity fundraising event.
Indiana Pacers mascot "Boomer" lends an assist in presenting St Francis Coach Marvin Christie with a framed Indianapolis Star article about his involvement with the charity program.
A loyal St. Francis fan shows her support.
The scoreboard doesn't show it -- but the real winners are those who will benefit from Roncalli's drug/alcohol/tobacco awareness programs.
Both teams congratulate one another's performance at the end of the game.
The 2010 St. Francis Docs vs. Jocks vs. Drugs team.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Surgeon explains orthopedic, joint replacement therapies in Columbus
COLUMBUS, Ind. – Hip and knee pain shouldn’t keep people from leading active and rewarding lives – and St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers wants to show you how.
The St. Francis “Road Show” will be coming to town at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, May 12, at the Comfort Inn and Suites, 2485 Jonathan Moore Pike. In the spotlight is a hip and knee replacement seminar.
Robert Malinzak, M.D., will explain the latest procedures in joint replacement and arthritis treatments. He is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in adult reconstructive surgery and joint replacement.
Malinzak is a surgeon with Joint Replacement Surgeons of Indiana, a practice group whose Center for Hip & Knee Surgery is affiliated with the St. Francis Hospital-Mooresville.
The Center has been ranked No. 1 in Indiana for joint surgery four years in a row by HealthGrades, one of the nation’s premier health-care rating companies.
To register for this seminar, call St. Francis toll-free at 1-877-888-1777. Light refreshments will be served, beginning at 6 p.m.
More information about the Center for Hip & Knee Surgery is at www.stfrancishospitals.org/Ortho/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=23.
The St. Francis “Road Show” will be coming to town at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, May 12, at the Comfort Inn and Suites, 2485 Jonathan Moore Pike. In the spotlight is a hip and knee replacement seminar.
Robert Malinzak, M.D., will explain the latest procedures in joint replacement and arthritis treatments. He is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in adult reconstructive surgery and joint replacement.
Malinzak is a surgeon with Joint Replacement Surgeons of Indiana, a practice group whose Center for Hip & Knee Surgery is affiliated with the St. Francis Hospital-Mooresville.
The Center has been ranked No. 1 in Indiana for joint surgery four years in a row by HealthGrades, one of the nation’s premier health-care rating companies.
To register for this seminar, call St. Francis toll-free at 1-877-888-1777. Light refreshments will be served, beginning at 6 p.m.
More information about the Center for Hip & Knee Surgery is at www.stfrancishospitals.org/Ortho/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=23.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
St. Francis surgeon explains orthopedic, joint replacement therapies April 28
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – Hip and knee pain shouldn’t keep people from leading active and rewarding lives – and St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers wants to show you how.
The St. Francis “Road Show” will be coming to town at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 28, at the Bloomington–Monroe County Convention Center, 302 S. College Ave. In the spotlight is a hip and knee replacement seminar. A light buffet will be served at 6 p.m.
John B. Meding, M.D., will explain the latest procedures in joint replacement and arthritis treatments. He is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon specializing in adult reconstructive surgery and joint replacement.
Meding is a surgeon with the Center for Hip & Knee Surgery at St. Francis Hospital-Mooresville.
The Center has been ranked No. 1 in Indiana for joint surgery four years in a row by HealthGrades, one of the nation’s premier health-care rating companies.
To register for this seminar, call St. Francis toll-free at 1-877-888-1777.
More information about the Center for Hip & Knee Surgery is at www. stfrancishospitals.org. Click the link in the center of the home page.
The St. Francis “Road Show” will be coming to town at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 28, at the Bloomington–Monroe County Convention Center, 302 S. College Ave. In the spotlight is a hip and knee replacement seminar. A light buffet will be served at 6 p.m.
John B. Meding, M.D., will explain the latest procedures in joint replacement and arthritis treatments. He is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon specializing in adult reconstructive surgery and joint replacement.
Meding is a surgeon with the Center for Hip & Knee Surgery at St. Francis Hospital-Mooresville.
The Center has been ranked No. 1 in Indiana for joint surgery four years in a row by HealthGrades, one of the nation’s premier health-care rating companies.
To register for this seminar, call St. Francis toll-free at 1-877-888-1777.
More information about the Center for Hip & Knee Surgery is at www. stfrancishospitals.org. Click the link in the center of the home page.
St. Francis Healing Touch: Our dreams are such stuff we are made of
INDIANAPOLIS – A person’s dream images are a vehicle on which one can plumb the depths of their spirituality, grow in wisdom and improve health and well-being.That is the focus of a special seminar Saturday, April 17, sponsored by the Healing Touch of Central Indiana program at St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers. The event is 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the St. Francis Hospital-Beech Grove Auditorium, 1600 Albany Ave.
Led by the Rev. Dr. M. Lorraine Coufal, spiritual director and chaplain for Clarian Health Partners, the seminar will show participants how dreams can be the source of guidance, wisdom, encouragement and find meaning in their lives.
Participants also will be invited to share their dream images, learn techniques to use with their dream process, and encouraged to use such methods to help them with patients receiving Healing Touch therapy.
The cost to attend the seminar is $30, payable at the door.
Healing Touch is a relaxing, nurturing therapy,” said St. Francis Pain Center Manager Kim Bell, R.N. “It’s a non-invasive procedure used to clear and balance the human energy field, techniques that improve a person’s physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being.”
To learn more about Healing Touch and the St. Francis Pain Clinic, go to www.stfrancishospitals.org/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=135.
For more information about the seminar or Healing Touch, contact Kim Bell at 317-782-6667 or Kimberly.bell@ssfhs.org
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
St. Francis surgeon on deck to discuss heart murmurs, valve disease
INDIANAPOLIS – Heart murmurs and valve disease are said to affect more than 5 million Americans, and while the symptoms might not be apparent, the condition can cause serious damage.
Marc Gerdisch, medical director of cardiothoracic surgery at the St. Francis Heart Center, will discuss valve conditions and heart murmurs 6:30 p.m., Thursday, April 15. The latest session in the “Ask the Doc” series is free to the public.
Gerdisch will explain how heart valves cause murmurs and when it’s time to seek treatment. Also, he will answer questions about advanced and innovative techniques that set new standards for murmurs and heart valve treatment at St. Francis.
Valves inside the heart that do not open or close properly cause heart murmurs. People can live with heart murmurs a long time without any symptoms. In fact, the heart can suffer considerable damage from heart valve disease before symptoms become noticeable. Heart failure may result from longstanding or sudden onset of valve disease.
A partner with Cardiac Surgery Associates, Gerdisch was the first in the world to use a new technology allowing patients to rebuild their own cardiovascular tissue. To learn more about his work, go to www.cardiactissuerepair.net.
To register for the seminar, call 317-782-4422, Participants also will be eligible for a free valvular echo screening.
The St. Francis Heart Center is located at 8111 S. Emerson Ave.
Marc Gerdisch, medical director of cardiothoracic surgery at the St. Francis Heart Center, will discuss valve conditions and heart murmurs 6:30 p.m., Thursday, April 15. The latest session in the “Ask the Doc” series is free to the public.
Gerdisch will explain how heart valves cause murmurs and when it’s time to seek treatment. Also, he will answer questions about advanced and innovative techniques that set new standards for murmurs and heart valve treatment at St. Francis.
Valves inside the heart that do not open or close properly cause heart murmurs. People can live with heart murmurs a long time without any symptoms. In fact, the heart can suffer considerable damage from heart valve disease before symptoms become noticeable. Heart failure may result from longstanding or sudden onset of valve disease.
A partner with Cardiac Surgery Associates, Gerdisch was the first in the world to use a new technology allowing patients to rebuild their own cardiovascular tissue. To learn more about his work, go to www.cardiactissuerepair.net.
To register for the seminar, call 317-782-4422, Participants also will be eligible for a free valvular echo screening.
The St. Francis Heart Center is located at 8111 S. Emerson Ave.
Braveheart: Take a stand for healthier lifestyle through St. Francis classes
INDIANAPOLIS – The St. Francis Heart Center is offering a series of free “Change of Heart” classes for the public to learn new ways to be more heart healthy and introduce them to great lifelong habits.
The path to better health begins with one step – and a series of free Change of Heart classes offered by St. Francis Heart Center. The classes are 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and are offered through May. Most are held at the St. Francis Heart Center, 8111 S. Emerson Ave., Entrance 1.
April classes include:
Strategies for Healthy Lifestyle Changes
April 6, St. Francis Heart Center
This class will help you focus and combine your efforts on three health fronts: nutrition, exercise and behaviors. Learn how you can make positive changes for you and your family.
Heart Smart Dining
April 13, St. Francis Hospital-Mooresville, 1201 Hadley Road
April 14, St. Francis Heart Center
How many meals do you eat away from home? Here are some hints about making good choices at your favorite restaurants.
Super Shopping
April 8, Kroger, 5911 Madison Ave., Indianapolis
April 20, Marsh, 435 Town Center St. North, Mooresville
This class begins and ends in a local supermarket where our dietitian leads the tour through the aisles. Find new products and learn how to read food labels for nutritional information.
Exercise for Your Heart
April 19, St. Francis Hospital-Mooresville, 1201 Hadley Road
April 29, St. Francis Heart Center
Our exercise specialists will discuss ways to find the best exercise for you and how to make it a part of your life, not just something you “should” do.
Top 10 Tips for Health
April 21, St. Francis Heart Center
Need help wading through all the health and nutrition information out there? This class will narrow it down to 10 things you can do to achieve your health goals.
Writing from the Heart
April 22, St. Francis Heart Center
Putting thoughts into words and on paper can be a powerful and therapeutic. Learn techniques for turning your writing in something that can affect your overall health in surprising ways.
Creative Cuisine
April 27, St. Francis Heart Center
Surprise your family with new recipes that are fun to make and nutritious. Taste samples during the class!
Reduce Stress
April 7, St. Francis Heart Center
April 26, St. Francis Hospital-Mooresville, 1201 Hadley Road
May 13, St. Francis Heart Center
This three-session class goes in-depth on how to manage stress in your life and reduce its effects on your physical health. Attend one or all three! Classes are taught by James Nicolai, M.D.
To register or learn more, go to www.StFrancisHospitals.org/heart for additional dates and class offerings.
The path to better health begins with one step – and a series of free Change of Heart classes offered by St. Francis Heart Center. The classes are 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and are offered through May. Most are held at the St. Francis Heart Center, 8111 S. Emerson Ave., Entrance 1.
April classes include:
Strategies for Healthy Lifestyle Changes
April 6, St. Francis Heart Center
This class will help you focus and combine your efforts on three health fronts: nutrition, exercise and behaviors. Learn how you can make positive changes for you and your family.
Heart Smart Dining
April 13, St. Francis Hospital-Mooresville, 1201 Hadley Road
April 14, St. Francis Heart Center
How many meals do you eat away from home? Here are some hints about making good choices at your favorite restaurants.
Super Shopping
April 8, Kroger, 5911 Madison Ave., Indianapolis
April 20, Marsh, 435 Town Center St. North, Mooresville
This class begins and ends in a local supermarket where our dietitian leads the tour through the aisles. Find new products and learn how to read food labels for nutritional information.
Exercise for Your Heart
April 19, St. Francis Hospital-Mooresville, 1201 Hadley Road
April 29, St. Francis Heart Center
Our exercise specialists will discuss ways to find the best exercise for you and how to make it a part of your life, not just something you “should” do.
Top 10 Tips for Health
April 21, St. Francis Heart Center
Need help wading through all the health and nutrition information out there? This class will narrow it down to 10 things you can do to achieve your health goals.
Writing from the Heart
April 22, St. Francis Heart Center
Putting thoughts into words and on paper can be a powerful and therapeutic. Learn techniques for turning your writing in something that can affect your overall health in surprising ways.
Creative Cuisine
April 27, St. Francis Heart Center
Surprise your family with new recipes that are fun to make and nutritious. Taste samples during the class!
Reduce Stress
April 7, St. Francis Heart Center
April 26, St. Francis Hospital-Mooresville, 1201 Hadley Road
May 13, St. Francis Heart Center
This three-session class goes in-depth on how to manage stress in your life and reduce its effects on your physical health. Attend one or all three! Classes are taught by James Nicolai, M.D.
To register or learn more, go to www.StFrancisHospitals.org/heart for additional dates and class offerings.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Advance health-care directives reduce patients’ anxiety, enhance care
INDIANAPOLIS – St. Francis Hospice is leading an effort to educate the public about the importance of having advance health-care directives.
That’s why it is hosting events at Friday, April 16, at five locations:
Greenwood Park Mall, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Mooresville Public Library, 220 W. Harrison St., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
St. Francis Hospital-Beech Grove, 1600 Albany St., 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
St. Francis Hospital-Indianapolis, 8111 S. Emerson Ave., 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
St. Francis Hospital-Mooresville, 1201 Hadley Road, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The St. Francis events will be in the hospital cafeterias
Advance health care directives instructions are given by individuals specifying what actions should be taken for their health in the event that they are no longer able to make decisions due to illness or incapacity.
Hospice staff will be joined by St. Francis nurses, social workers, chaplains and attorneys specializing in health care law. Other experts from outside the hospital will be on hand to answer questions.
The event coincides with the National Health Care Decisions Day, designed to raise awareness and the importance of advance care planning.
“Our goal is to provide much-needed information to the public and reduce the number of problems that occur when a patient’s wishes are unknown and to enhance the ability of health-care facilities and provides to offer their patients and their families informed and thoughtful guidance,” said Monica Burkhart-Negri, R.N., community liaison at St. Francis Hospice.
To learn more about St. Francis Hospice, go to www.stfrancishospitals.org/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=280
That’s why it is hosting events at Friday, April 16, at five locations:
Greenwood Park Mall, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Mooresville Public Library, 220 W. Harrison St., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
St. Francis Hospital-Beech Grove, 1600 Albany St., 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
St. Francis Hospital-Indianapolis, 8111 S. Emerson Ave., 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
St. Francis Hospital-Mooresville, 1201 Hadley Road, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The St. Francis events will be in the hospital cafeterias
Advance health care directives instructions are given by individuals specifying what actions should be taken for their health in the event that they are no longer able to make decisions due to illness or incapacity.
Hospice staff will be joined by St. Francis nurses, social workers, chaplains and attorneys specializing in health care law. Other experts from outside the hospital will be on hand to answer questions.
The event coincides with the National Health Care Decisions Day, designed to raise awareness and the importance of advance care planning.
“Our goal is to provide much-needed information to the public and reduce the number of problems that occur when a patient’s wishes are unknown and to enhance the ability of health-care facilities and provides to offer their patients and their families informed and thoughtful guidance,” said Monica Burkhart-Negri, R.N., community liaison at St. Francis Hospice.
To learn more about St. Francis Hospice, go to www.stfrancishospitals.org/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=280
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