Travelling Fellows visit with Franciscan joint replacement surgeons

MOORESVILLE, Ind. -- Four international orthopedic surgeons who are on this year's John N. Insall Travelling Fellowship made a stop this week at our Center for Hip & Knee Surgery to meet with our Joint Replacement Surgeons of Indiana team.

They are (from left, front row): Drs. Simone Cerciello (Italy), Thomas J. Heyse (Germany), James L. Howard (Canada) and Simon W. Young (New Zealand).

Middle row: Drs. E. Michael Keating, Joshua Carter (Midwest Center for Joint Replacement), John Meding, Michael Berend ( Midwest Center) and Philip Faris.

Back row: Dr. Tatsuya Sueyoshi (Fellow, Joint Replacement Surgeons of Indiana Research Foundation).

The Center for Hip & Knee Surgery is internationally recognized for its surgical innovation and care for patients.

To learn more about the prestigious Insall Fellowship, go tohttp://www.kneesociety.org/web/travelfellowship.html.

Surgeon to discuss heart murmurs, valve disease, treatments at Putnam County Hospital

GREENCASTLE, Ind. – A prominent Franciscan St. Francis Health heart surgeon will lead a free public Ask the Doc seminar on “Do you have a heart murmur?” at Putnam County Hospital Tuesday, Oct. 27.

Marc W. Gerdisch, MD, chief of cardiovascular and thoracic surgery, will explain the significance of heart murmurs and latest treatments for heart valve disease. The event starts at 6:30 p.m., with refreshments being served at 6:00 p.m. in the hospital’s third-floor classroom at 1542 S. Bloomington St.

Heart murmurs are caused by valves inside the heart that don’t close properly. Sometimes people can live with heart murmurs a long time without any symptoms but if the problem becomes more serious, the blood flow to the heart may be affected.

In 2008, Dr. Gerdisch performed the world’s first procedure to repair heart valves using technology enabling the heart to naturally regrow damaged tissue. He has been an innovator in heart surgery at Franciscan St. Francis Health and frequently presents internationally on novel heart valve repair techniques. He also conducts ongoing landmark research in next-generation heart valves and heart tissue regeneration.

The seminar is free, but registration is required because of limited seating. To register, call 765-655-2620.

Those attending may be eligible for a free heart valve echocardiogram screening at a later date.

Putnam County Hospital recently formed a partnership with Franciscan St. Francis Health. This arrangement provides a full-time cardiology clinic and outstanding cardiac support for patients in that area.

Hospital-hosted event offers health sciences career info to students

INDIANAPOLIS – The health care industry is ever-evolving and so too are its many opportunities for youngsters who may consider careers in that field.

Franciscan St. Francis Health and Franciscan Physician Network are sponsoring Health Sciences Career Forum Thursday, Nov. 5 at their Indianapolis campus (8111 S. Emerson Ave.).

The event is geared to middle school students and their parents. Here’s what they can expect:Career education and information booths; demonstrations of clinical technology and panel discussions by hospital staff; giveaways; door prizes; and refreshments.

Representatives from Ivy Tech Community College, Franklin College, Marian University, University of Indianapolis and Harrison College will be on hand to explain their respective health-related education programs.

The event will be from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., is located inside the hospital’s outpatient center area (Entrance 6).

To register, call 317-528-3284 or visit http://goo.gl/forms/Ch9j5AxIbd.

Free heart-healthy classes offered to public throughout November

INDIANAPOLIS -- Franciscan St. Francis Heart Center is offering free classes focused on cardiovascular health and wellness in November.

To register for any of the classes, call 317-782-4422 or go online at MyHeartCare.net to see the full listing of fall classes. Seating is limited for these events. The classes include:

Am I safe from having a heart attack?

Thursday, Nov. 5 at 6:30 p.m.

Franciscan St. Francis Health-Mooresville (1201 Hadley Road)

Presented by Babu Doddapaneni, MD

While family history plays a part in our risk for heart and vascular disease, we can take many steps to reduce our chances of having a heart attack or stroke. First up: know your numbers, including resting heart rate, blood pressure and cholesterol, both good (HDL) and bad (LDL). Then learn how diet, exercise and medications can lower your risk of heart disease. During this program Dr. Doddapaneni will talk about prevention and recognizing the signs and symptoms of heart attack and stroke.

Aneurysms: Pay attention before it’s too late

Thursday, Nov. 19, 6:30 p.m.

Franciscan St. Francis Heart Center (8111 S. Emerson Ave.)

Presented by Thomas Webb, MD

Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA), are uncommon but usually deadly.  They develop slowly and usually have no symptoms, but when the weakened walls of the artery collapse, there is little recourse.  That’s why knowing your risk for AAA is so important. In some cases, the condition is genetic, but if you smoke, have high blood pressure or cholesterol you may be at risk as well. Dr. Webb will discuss risks, symptoms and monitoring of AAA and how Medicare offers a free screening to qualified members age 65-75.

Change of Heart classes offered in Fall 2015:

Quick meals at home

Tuesday, Nov. 3, 6:30 p.m. at Franciscan St. Francis-Mooresville

Some days, we just don’t have the time – or the desire – to spend a lot of time in the kitchen.  But that doesn’t mean we need to sacrifice eating well at home.  Learn how to fix quick and easy nutritious meals you and your family can enjoy.

Savvy Shopping

Wednesday, Nov. 4, 6:30 p.m. at Southport Meijer (5325 E. Southport Road)

With all the new and changing products on the shelves, grocery shopping can be overwhelming.  Learn where to find the healthy foods and how to avoid packaging tricks commonly used to market foods.  Discover how food labels make you a smarter shopper.

Fitness Tips

Tuesday, Nov. 10, 6:30 p.m. at the Heart Center

Being fit is more than being thin.  Research shows that no matter what you weigh, increasing your fitness helps your heart.  Discover that exercise can be healthy and fun.  Learn how to set up a schedule for yourself.

Flavorful Holiday Cooking Tips

Thursday, Nov. 12, 6:30 p.m. at Franciscan St. Francis-Mooresville

Wednesday, Nov 18, 6:30 p.m. at the Heart Center

Don’t blow your good eating and dining habits this season.  Learn how to manage the holiday feasting and celebrations with herb and spice options to add flavor to your traditional recipes.

Reduce Holiday Stress

Tuesday, Nov. 17, 6:30 p.m. at the Heart Center

Negative stress causes changes in lifestyle and behavior, which may lead to unhealthy choices.  Learn to identify the causes of stress in your life and techniques to decrease your stress which can improve your health.

New physician establishes practice with Orthopedic Specialists

INDIANAPOLIS – Toni E. Lin, MD, has joined Franciscan Physician Network Orthopedic Specialists.

She joins Charles P. Bartley Jr., MD; Peter Hogg, MD; Jeffrey A. Ollo, MD; Daniel K. Williams, MD; Kenneth S. Pherson, DO; and James W. Strickland, MD, whose offices are located at 5255 E. Stop 11 Road, Suite 300, Indianapolis.

Dr. Lin, who specializes in hand and upper extremity surgery, most recently practiced in the Indianapolis area and held a clinical appointment with the Indiana University School of Medicine.

An honors graduate of Purdue University, she earned her medical degree from the IU School of Medicine. Dr. Lin completed an internship and residency in orthopedic surgery at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. She also completed a fellowship in hand surgery at the University of Texas-Southwestern Medical Center and Texas Scottish Rite Hospital in Dallas.

Dr. Lin has made frequent presentations to medical organizations and participated widely in professional development activities.

An Indianapolis resident, Dr. Lin is board-certified by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand, American Association for Hand Surgery and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Lin, call 317-528-4723.

Franciscan Physician Network is a division of the Mishawaka, Ind.-based Franciscan Alliance. To learn more about network primary and specialty care services in central Indiana, go to FranciscanDocs.org.

Hospital-hosted event offers health sciences career info to students

INDIANAPOLIS – The health care industry is ever-evolving and so too are its many opportunities for youngsters who may consider careers in that field.

Franciscan St. Francis Health and Franciscan Physician Network are sponsoring Health Sciences Career Forum Thursday, Nov. 5 at their Indianapolis campus (8111 S. Emerson Ave.).

The event is geared to middle school students and their parents. Here’s what they can expect:

·        Career education and information booths

·        Demonstrations of clinical technology and panel discussions by hospital staff

·        Giveaways, door prizes and refreshments

Representatives from Ivy Tech Community College, Franklin College, Marian University, University of Indianapolis and Harrison College will be on hand to explain their respective health-related education programs.

The event will be from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., is located inside the hospital’s outpatient center area (Entrance 6).

To register, call 317-528-3284 or visit http://goo.gl/forms/Ch9j5AxIbd.

Medicare Extravaganza aims to educate seniors on insurance plans

GREENWOOD, Ind. – It’s that time of year again – that open enrollment period to help seniors choose the right Medicare Advantage plan to cover their health insurance needs.

Senior Promise, a Franciscan St. Francis Health-based organization is hosting a Medicare Extravaganza Oct. 19, Oct. 23 and Oct. 26 at the hospital’s Education Services and Support Center at 421 N. Emerson Ave., Greenwood, one mile south of County Line Road.

Four presentation sessions will be held at the following times: 9 to 10:15 a.m., 10:30 to 11:45 a.m., noon to 1:15 p.m. and 1:30 to 2:45 p.m. 

Franciscan Insurance Services staff will be joined by representatives from Humana Health Plan Inc., Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and UnitedHealthcare. Each organization will give presentations on their Medicare Advantage plans to help participants make informed decisions about the right plan for their needs.

Registration is not required. For more information, call Senior Promise and Franciscan Insurance Services at 317-528-8277.

Franciscan St. Francis Health offers help for those seeking health insurance

COLUMBUS, Ind. -- Are you and your family covered by health insurance? If not, Franciscan St. Francis Health Cancer Center wants to help you find an affordable plan.

The Cancer Center is hosting an event at Tuesday, Nov. 3, at Franciscan Physician Network Columbus Primary & Specialty Care, located at 123 2^nd St. Insurance specialists will be on hand to answer questions and to help enroll participants in a plan with Medicare, 

Medicaid or the Health Insurance Marketplace.

The event, which will be from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., is open to anyone looking to enroll in a plan for 2016.

For more information, call 317-528-1351.

Hospital’s Senior Health Speakers Series continues at Garfield Park

INDIANAPOLIS – Seniors with questions about their health, wellness and safety are likely to find the answers they need at free seminars offered by Franciscan St. Francis Health.

The hospital’s Senior Health Speakers Series at Garfield Park offers the following classes at Garfield Park Burrello Family Center, located at 2345 Pagoda Drive, Indianapolis. Events are free, but registration is required for all sessions and can be made by calling 317-327-7220:

Noon, Wednesday, Oct. 21   Am I At Risk of Heart Attack?  While family history plays a role in your risk for heart attack and cardiovascular disease, many steps can be taken to reduce those disorders. Michael Barron, MD, a member of Franciscan Physician Network Indiana Heart Physicians, will talk about prevention and how to recognize signs and symptoms of heart attack. A box lunch will be provided to participants. Registration required by 3 p.m., Oct. 17.

1 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 11  ACO Kidney Talks  Chronic kidney disease afflicts many in the United States. Shelby Baker, RN, will discuss disease progression, prevention, risk factors and how to take control with healthy lifestyle choices. Registration required by 3 p.m., Nov. 14

10 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 18    Fall Prevention  This program is designed for older adults and caregivers on how to prevent falls in the home.  Christine Claborn, RN, will lead this discussion. Registration required by 3 p.m., Nov. 14.

10 a.m., Tuesday, Dec. 1 Bereavement During the Holidays    Grief is a process that people need not face alone. Bereavement counselor Karla Riggs-Norton will provide the opportunity for participants to talk about their personal experiences and also learn what others are going through from the loss of a loved one. This gathering also is geared to help cope and even get stronger during the holidays. Registration required by 3 p.m., Nov. 28.

Busy parents, healthy lifestyles class offered at Carmel Clay Public Library

CARMEL, Ind. – Busy families are often challenged to find the time to maintain healthy habits and related goals.

Parents can learn ways to maintain fitness, exercise programs, energy, sleep and nutrition at a free seminar at 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 27 at the Carmel Clay Public Library. Phil Blaney, MD, with the Franciscan St. Francis Health Family Medicine Center will be on hand to explain how families can set and achieve realistic health goals.

Dr. Blaney, who is in his final year of family medicine residency training, has a background in exercise physiology and biomechanics and will share tips and answer parents’ questions at this seminar.

Please call 317-844-3362 to register for the event.

Carmel Clay Public Library is located at 55 4^th Ave., SE, Carmel.

Mammothon offers screenings at Indianapolis hospital Oct. 15

INDIANAPOLIS -- With early detection, diagnosis and treatment options, more patients are beating breast cancer, yet many women don’t seek annual mammography screenings for a variety of reasons.

That’s why Franciscan St. Francis Health Cancer Center is hosting its annual Mammothon at its Indianapolis hospital (8111 S. Emerson Ave.) from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday, Oct. 16.

Mammograms are by appointment only and can be made by calling 317-528-8555.

The event also offers:

·        free non-fasting cholesterol screenings from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.

·        free bone density screenings

·        door prizes

·        refreshments

Personalities from local radio station B105.7 FM also will be hand, providing live coverage of Mammothon activities.

Mammogram screenings also can be arranged at Franciscan St. Francis Health-Carmel (12188-B N. Meridian St.) throughout October. To make an appointment, call 317-528-8555.

Study probes link between rheumatoid arthritis medication, cardiovascular events

INDIANAPOLIS – Does tightly controlling rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have an effect on the level of risk for heart attack and stroke?  It’s possible, according to a recently published study appearing in the medical journal, Arthritis & Rheumatology.

The analysis evaluated associations between  RA disease activity, inflammation and lipid levels among patients taking tocilizumab (Actremra), to determine if that therapy affects their risks for major adverse cardiovascular events.

Tocilizumab, an immunosuppressive drug that blocks inflammation, is used for treating RA, a chronic inflammatory disorder causing inflammation in the joints and resulting in painful deformity and immobility in the fingers, wrists, feet and ankles.

The analysis showed that decreasing inflammation is related to lower risk of cardiovascular events even though RA patients on tocilizumab showed increased lipid levels. 

“Patients with rheumatoid arthritis have two-to-three fold the risk of myocardial infarction (heart attack) and stroke compared with those in the general population,” said Vijay U. Rao, MD, PhD, the study’s principal author and a member of Franciscan Physician Network Indiana Heart Physicians. “These findings are important to patients with RA, rheumatologists and cardiologists because it supports the link between inflammation and cardiovascular disease, a huge area of research right now. Keeping the condition under control can help decrease a patient’s risk of cardiovascular events, regardless of their cholesterol levels.”

Dr. Rao and his research colleagues evaluated data pooled from 3,986 adult patients having moderate to severe RA and who received tocilizumab intravenously every four weeks in randomized controlled trials and studies.

“Several previous studies suggest that the increased incidence of cardiovascular disease in RA patients is not completely explained by traditional risk factors such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension and smoking, but now we have shown support for the link between inflammation and cardiovascular disease,” Dr. Rao said. “Larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.”

The study was conducted during Dr. Rao’s research fellowship with Genentech.

Franciscan Alliance selects new VP of ambulatory services

INDIANAPOLIS – Christopher A. DiGiusto has been appointed vice president of ambulatory services for Franciscan Alliance.

Among his duties, DiGiusto will provide operational leadership and direction over Franciscan Alliance’s retail sites and ambulatory services, urgent care and occupational health sites; assist with direct-to-consumer engagement; and development and oversight of all telehealth platforms and services.

DiGiusto will report to Robert J. Brody, senior vice president and chief operating officer for ambulatory services for Franciscan Alliance, which operates 14 hospitals and numerous outpatient facilities in Indiana and Illinois.

Since 2009, DiGiusto was the service line director for orthopedics, neurosciences and rehabilitation for Franciscan St. Francis Health, where he was responsible for strategic growth of those medical disciplines at the hospital’s three campuses. During that time, he led many initiatives, including telemedicine services, and spearheaded the development of sports medicine agreements with several school systems throughout Central Indiana.

DiGiusto has held many positions with Franciscan St. Francis Health since joining the organization in 2003.  He has served as director of product and business development and manager of business development. He also was a project team leader for information technology implementation.

An Indianapolis resident, DiGiusto received his undergraduate degree in psychology from Xavier University in Cincinnati, where he later earned a master’s degree in health services (MHA).

DiGiusto is a Fellow with the American College of Healthcare Executives and has leadership roles with the Indiana Healthcare Executive Network.

Franciscan Alliance is one of the largest Catholic health care systems in the Midwest with 14 hospitals and a number of nationally recognized Centers of Health Care Excellence serving patients in Indiana, Illinois and Michigan.

Busy parents, healthy lifestyles class offered at Carmel Clay Public Library

CARMEL, Ind. – Busy families are often challenged to find the time to maintain healthy habits and related goals.

Parents can learn ways to maintain fitness, exercise programs, energy, sleep and nutrition at a free seminar at 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 27 at the Carmel Clay Public Library. Phil Blaney, MD, with the Franciscan St. Francis Health Family Medicine Center will be on hand to explain how families can set and achieve realistic health goals.

Dr. Blaney, who is in his final year of family medicine residency training, has a background in exercise physiology and biomechanics and will share tips and answer parents’ questions at this seminar.

Please call 317-844-3362 to register for the event.

Carmel Clay Public Library is located at 55 4^th Ave., SE, Carmel.

New physician establishes practice with Heartland Crossing Pediatrics

MOORESVILLE, Ind. – Bradey T. Kleman, MD, has joined Franciscan Physician Network Heartland Crossing Pediatrics.

He joins Amanda M. Walter, MD, and advanced care provider Lisa A. Watkins, NP. Their offices are located at 1001 Hadley Road, Suite LL 1001, Mooresville.

Dr. Kleman most recently worked as a pediatrician in Columbus, Indiana, and prior to that practiced pediatrics in Terre Haute.

Dr. Kleman received his undergraduate degree in biology from the University of Akron and earned his medical degree from Wright State University-Boonshoft School of Medicine. He completed a pediatrics residency and post-doctoral training at West Virginia University School of Medicine.

Board-certified in pediatrics, Dr. Kleman is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics. His clinical interests include acute illnesses, Down’s syndrome and Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kleman, call 317-834-3502.

Franciscan Physician Network is a division of the Mishawaka, Ind.-based Franciscan Alliance. To learn more about network primary and specialty care services in central Indiana, go to FranciscanDocs.org.