Franciscan St. Francis Health’s heart attack care earns national recognition

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana – Franciscan St. Francis Health-Indianapolis has received the Mission: Lifeline^® Gold-Plus Award for surpassing quality measures in the treatment of patients who suffer severe heart attacks.

The recognition comes from the American Heart Association, which also named the hospital as a recipient of the Mission: Lifeline Gold Receiving Quality Achievement Award. 

The Gold-Plus award means the hospital has not only surpassed an achievement score on all Lifeline quality measures, but has also achieved at least a 75 percent on “First Door to Device” (duration of time from a patient’s arrival at the hospital to the activation of cardiac device) of under 120 minutes for an ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) transfer patients from other facilities.

“Our clinicians and support staff are dedicated to improving the quality of care for our patients who suffer a heart attack, and the Lifeline program is helping us accomplish that goal through nationally respected clinical guidelines,” said William J. Berg, MD, medical director of the hospital’s Heart Center and Catheterization Lab. “We are pleased to be recognized for our dedication and achievements in heart care, and I am very proud of our team.”

Every year, more than 250,000 people experience an STEMI, the most deadly type of heart attack, which is caused by a blockage of blood flow to the heart that requires timely treatment. To prevent death, it’s critical to restore blood flow as quickly as possible, either by mechanically opening the blocked vessel or by providing clot-busting medication.

The Indianapolis hospital earned the award by meeting specific criteria and standards of performance for the quick and appropriate treatment of STEMI patients by providing emergency procedures to re-establish blood flow to blocked arteries when needed. Eligible hospitals must adhere to these measures at a set level for a designated period to receive the awards.

Family medicine residency program director receives national appointment

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana – Richard D. Feldman, MD, has been named as an at-large member of the board of curators of the American Academy of Family Physicians’ Center of the History of Family Medicine.

The three-year appointment is effective July 1. In 2014, Dr. Feldman was the recipient of the Center's first Fellowship Award that supported his writing of the book, Family Practice 

Stories.

Dr. Feldman is director of the Franciscan St. Francis Health Family Medicine Residency Program, which he has headed since 1981. He also directs the hospital’s medical education program. He has held several elected appointments with the Indiana Academy of Family Physicians (IAFP), the Indianapolis Medical Society and Indiana State Medical Association.

In 2014, he received lifetime achievement accolades from the IAFP and the Indiana Public Health Foundation.

An Indianapolis resident, he has served as president of the IAFP and is past president of the Indiana Medical History Museum. He also is a lay member of the Indiana General Assembly’s Interim Study Committee on Public Health, Behavioral Health and Human Services.

Dr. Feldman served as Indiana State Health Commissioner from 1997 to 2001, and he’s a featured editorial columnist for the Indianapolis Star.

Franciscan St. Francis Health-Indianapolis listed among Becker’s ‘100 Great Community Hospitals’

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana – Franciscan St. Francis Health-Indianapolis has been recognized and included in the 2016 edition of Becker’s Hospital Review "100 Great Community Hospitals.”

The publication’s editorial team selected hospitals for inclusion based on rankings and awards from organizations including iVantage Health Analytics, Truven Health Analytics, Healthgrades, CareChex, the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the Leapfrog Group.

In March 2016, Franciscan St. Francis Health-Indianapolis was named by Truven as being among the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals. And over the years, both the Indianapolis and Mooresville hospitals have earned numerous accolades from Healthgrades, including 2016.

“Our physicians, providers and staff dedicate themselves daily to create a healing environment, and accomplish that care in a team-based manner for our patients and their families,” said James Callaghan, MD, president and CEO for Franciscan St. Francis Health. “We are proud to receive this recognition as it reflects on our staff’s dedication to our healthcare ministry.”

Franciscan St. Francis Health also made the Becker’s listing in 2012. The publication defines a "community hospital" as one with fewer than 550 beds that have minimal teaching programs. The hospital’s nationally recognized Family Medicine Residency Program has been the training ground for hundreds of new physicians entering the field of primary care.

“The hospitals on this list are spread across the country, some not far from major metro areas and some in rural communities,” Becker’s officials noted when making their announcement on June 20. “Regardless of location or whether they are affiliated with a major system, these hospitals are vital parts of their respective communities.”

Becker’s Hospital Review notes that the 100 Great Community Hospitals list is not an endorsement of included hospitals, health systems or associated health care providers and those organizations cannot pay for inclusion on this list.

Joint replacement surgeon joins Center for Hip & Knee Surgery in Mooresville

MOORESVILLE, Indiana – Timothy J. Williams, MD, JD, has joined Joint Replacement Surgeons, a Franciscan Physician Network practice.

Dr. Williams joins Jeff L. Pierson, MD; John B. Meding, MD; and Robert A, Malinzak, MD, and will work at Franciscan St. Francis Health-Mooresville.  Joint Replacement Surgeons also has an office at Carmel. Board-certified in orthopedic surgery and specializing in joint replacement surgery, he joins a team whose work at the Center for Hip & Knee Surgery is internationally recognized.

Dr. Williams held multiple positions at Franciscan St. Francis from 2006 to 2014, including medical director for orthopedics and joint services, vice chairman of Department of Surgery. He also served with the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine.

Dr. Williams received an undergraduate degree in international studies and earned his medical degree from The Ohio State University and its College of Medicine and Public Health, respectively. He completed an orthopedic surgery residency at The Ohio State University Medical Center and a fellowship in joint reconstruction and biologic arthroplasty at Brigham & Women’s Hospital at Harvard University in Boston.

He also earned a law degree from Capital University Law and Graduate Center in Columbus, Ohio. A Fellow of both the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, he also is a member of the Indiana Medical Society.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Williams, call toll free at 800-237-7678.

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

The Stethoscope Series: Conversations with MDs and specialists

CARMEL, Indiana – Are you looking for answers to your medical questions without having to make an appointment? Franciscan St. Francis Health-Carmel is bringing the experts to you in The Stethoscope Series.

Three upcoming events are slated at Carmel Clay Public Library at 55 4^th Ave. SE. These free sessions provide healthcare conversations with doctors, surgeons and other specialists. They include:

Do You Know How to Spot Skin Cancer?

Presented by Juliana Meyer, MD

1-2 p.m., Tuesday, June 28

It’s important to be aware that most skin cancers are caused by exposure to the sun. Learn the basics from Dr. Meyer, a melanoma surgeon with Franciscan Physician Network. She will share the basics of skin cancer, what to look for, how to reduce risks and innovative treatments being used at Franciscan St. Francis Health.

Joint Pain Seminar

Presented by Robert Malinzak, MD

6 to 8 p.m., Monday, July 11

Learn the facts about joint replacement surgery by Dr. Malinzak, an orthopedic surgeon with the Franciscan Center for Hip & Knee Surgery. This could be participants’ first step toward a future free from joint pain.

The Mystery of Low Back Pain and Sciatica

Presented by Praveen Perni, MD

6 to 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 24

It’s a shooting pain that radiates from the lower back and often leaves many unable to go about life’s routine activities. It’s called sciatica – a common yet painful spinal condition affecting many Americans. Dr. Perni, a spine surgeon with American Health Network Orthopaedic Bone & Spine, will discuss the newest techniques and technologies used to treat this condition.

Each class is free but registration is required by calling 317-782-4422 or visit FranciscanStFrancis.org/Carmel to reserve your seat.

Group acupuncture classes enable many to get point at same time

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana – Franciscan St. Francis Health-Indianapolis is now hosting group acupuncture sessions once a month.

Also known as “community acupuncture,” sessions are completed in an open space with several individuals receiving acupuncture at the same time. Patients are fully clothed and seated in zero gravity lounge chairs. Clients complete health history forms prior to their sessions.

Group acupuncture can be a great introduction to acupuncture. The group setting allows family and friends to be treated together, and newcomers can observe a treatment before being receiving services.

Acupuncture can treats a wide range of complaints – from digestive problems to fatigue and pain.

The seminars will take place at Franciscan St. Francis Health in the Women & Children’s Center classroom near the lobby. Group session dates are: July 22, August 26, September 16, October 28 and November 11. Cost is $35 per person, by appointment only.

To learn more or to schedule a session, call (317) 528-5868.

Thinking about weight loss surgery? Free seminars can answer your questions.

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana – Franciscan St. Francis Health is hosting free bariatric weight loss seminars from 1-2 p.m. on Thursday, June 16 and Thursday, July 28.

Clinical experts will discuss the various types of bariatric surgical procedures in detail, success rates and determine if participants are qualified candidates for bariatric surgery. They will also share important nutritional and lifestyle requirements, plus a range of support programs, which provide helpful tools to be successful at losing the weight and keeping it off.

The seminars will take place at Franciscan St. Francis Health Weight Loss Center, Group Room, located at 5230-A East Stop 11 Road. The events are free, but seating is limited and registration is required.

To learn more or to register for our bariatric weight loss seminar, call 317-528-7525 or visit http://www.franciscanalliance.org/events.

Indy 500 Pace Car, Princesses make pit stop at May 18 Spring Fling

BEECH GROVE, Indiana – In Central Indiana, May is the month of strawberries and fast cars roaring around a storied oval track.

Visitors to the annual Senior Promise Spring Fling Strawberry Festival will get a slice of those traditions Wednesday, May 18 at Sarah T. Bolton Park (1300 Churchman Ave.) A model of this year’s Indianapolis 500 Pace Car – a Chevrolet Camaro SS – and 2016 500 Festival Princesses will be on hand at this year’s event, scheduled from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Franciscan St. Francis Health Senior Promise will incorporate into this year’s event a bit of the history and tradition of the Indianapolis 500, which is observing its centennial year.

The festival, which is free and open to the public, offers live music by The Tides, door prizes and strawberry shortcake treats. And it provides an opportunity for those 50 and older to take advantage of the myriad benefits of Senior Promise membership.

For more information about the event call 317-528-6660. Learn more about Senior Promise HERE. 

Franciscan St. Francis Health selects new cancer program director

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana – Larry Meade has been promoted to director of Oncology Services for Franciscan St. Francis Health.

He will oversee the overall day-to-day operations of cancer programs and related activities at Franciscan St. Francis’ hospitals at Indianapolis, Mooresville and Carmel.

Meade most previously was director of business development for Franciscan Alliance, working to advance strategic initiatives in various areas throughout the organization and in Central Indiana.

Prior to that assignment, he served as marketing manager for Franciscan St. Francis Health’s Oncology Services line. In that role, he led the marketing communications for the expansion of the Franciscan St. Francis Cancer Center and promotion of the center’s programs and services. 

He also has been instrumental in the development of the hospital’s imaging, pulmonary and surgical services and coordinating numerous community partnerships.

A Columbus, Indiana resident, Meade earned a master of business administration (marketing) at the Indiana Institute of Technology and received his undergraduate degree in visual communications from the University of Indianapolis.

Foundation golf outing tees it up to support clinic serving needy

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana – The rolling fairways and sprawling greens at Eagle Creek Golf Club again will be the setting of the 2016 Golf Outing, sponsored by the Franciscan Alliance Foundation-Central Indiana Region.

The outing gets under way with a nine-hole scramble at 9 a.m., Wednesday, Aug. 24 Golfers opting for 18 holes of play will tee it up at 1 p.m.  Participants also will be offered breakfast, and luncheon. An awards dinner will be held at 6 p.m.

The event, now in its 30^th year, brings together board members, Indianapolis-area civic and business leaders, and Franciscan St. Francis physicians and staff for a full day of golf, fellowship and fun with the goal of raising funds for various foundation projects.

Proceeds from this year’s outing will benefit Franciscan St. Francis Health’s Neighborhood Health Center, located near Garfield Park south of Downtown Indianapolis. This family medicine-centered practice is designed for families without access to affordable health care.

The Neighborhood Health Center’s focus is to provide primary and preventive care as well as health education. All services are rendered on a sliding fee scale. Patients are charged only what they can afford without compromising the financial integrity of their families.

Throughout the day, various products and services – generously donated by local individuals and businesses – will be auctioned.

To register for the outing or learn more about it, go to http://sites.franciscanalliance.org/Foundation/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=317

Great expectations? Free classes offer primer for pregnancy

MOORESVILLE, Indiana – So, this is your first pregnancy or maybe you’re planning on becoming a parent? No doubt, you have questions and concerns.

As part of the new Guiding You Maternity Program, Franciscan St. Francis Health-Mooresville (1201 Hadley Road) is offering a free event called Pregnancy 101 that covers a range of topics related to pregnancy. The three class sessions will be in the Swisher Conference room: Tuesday, June 21, (6 p.m. to 8 p.m.), Friday, Aug. 26, (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and Saturday, Oct. 22, (9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.).

Health experts will discuss breastfeeding basics, nutrition for mothers, navigating pregnancy, prenatal care, safe sleep for infants, what to expect in the delivery room and how to choose a pediatrician. An OB/GYN specialist also will be present to answer participants’ questions about pregnancy.

All attendees will receive an insulated milk cooler filled with samples for mothers and babies. Refreshments also will be provided.

The events are free, but seating is limited. To learn more and register for Pregnancy 101 classes, click FranciscanStFrancis.org/CherishedBeginnings or call 317-528-7997.

Physician joins IMPACT Center at Franciscan St. Francis Health-Mooresville

MOORESVILLE, Indiana -- A. Adam Andres, MD, MS has joined the IMPACT Center, a part of the Franciscan Physician Network at Franciscan St. Francis Health-Mooresville.

He joins Daniel Gay, MD; Daniel Desalle, DO; and Christopher Zietlow, MD, PhD. The IMPACT Center offers pre-surgical testing and post-surgical care for patients undergoing procedures at the Mooresville campus.

Board-certified in internal medicine, Dr. Andres has worked at medical facilities at Danville, Terre Haute and Carmel.

Dr. Andres received his undergraduate degree in biology from the University of Notre Dame and obtained his master of science degree in biomedical engineering at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology. Her earned his medical degree from the Indiana University School of Medicine and completed his residency training at St. Vincent Health

Dr. Andres completed volunteer service in the Philippines where served as a primary care physician, gave lectures, assisted in the catherization lab and triaged patients for procedures.

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