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news archive
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July 29, 2010 |
Skiff plays critical role in county-wide disaster drill |
A dozen “victims” were rushed to Skiff Medical Center on Saturday, July 17, after a simulated bus crash at Colfax-Mingo High School.
The two-hour process allowed Skiff the opportunity to complete a run-through of its Incident Comman ...
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Skiff plays critical role in county-wide disaster drill
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A dozen “victims” were rushed to Skiff Medical Center on Saturday, July 17, after a simulated bus crash at Colfax-Mingo High School.
The two-hour process allowed Skiff the opportunity to complete a run-through of its Incident Command System for handling disaster situations. Employees from several different departments within the hospital were involved in the drill.
The mass casualty training event began at 9 a.m., when Skiff was notified that students with simulated injuries were being transported to the hospital.
The medical center implemented its disaster calling lists, contacting off-duty employees and asking them to report to the hospital if possible.
“Skiff had a wonderful response to the drill,” said Mary Swoboda, Chief Nursing Officer. “It was excellent for it to occur on a Saturday, when many employees are out of the office. It required us to initiate our calling lists and determine a realistic time line and staffing level.”
Conducting disaster drills on a periodic basis allows Skiff to be well prepared if a real situation were to occur.
“Skiff wants to have the necessary knowledge and experience to handle these situations efficiently so the quality of care for our patients can continue,” said John Bartello, Facilities Management Director.
Partnering with the county added another dimension to the drill, as good communication is imperative to working cohesively.
“It’s great to work with our county partners on these drills,” Bartello said. “It helps establish a precedence if there were a real disaster situation.”
“The event was a wonderful learning experience,” said CEO Steve Long. “We will be making many positive changes.” |
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July 16, 2010 |
Adopted woman returns to Skiff Medical Center 39 years after birth |
Almost 40 years after being born at Skiff Medical Center, Lisa Pelletier had the opportunity to put her thumbprints on a commemorative birth certificate as CEO Steve Long and Cindy Ahn, a Skiff employee and family friend, looked on.
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Adopted woman returns to Skiff Medical Center 39 years after birth
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Almost 40 years after being born at Skiff Medical Center, Lisa Pelletier had the opportunity to put her thumbprints on a commemorative birth certificate as CEO Steve Long and Cindy Ahn, a Skiff employee and family friend, looked on.
A lot of laughs and almost as many tears marked a very special reunion at Skiff Medical Center last Saturday.
Early in the morning on Sept. 23, 1970, a 15-year-old girl from Colfax gave birth at Skiff Medical Center, in the former obstetrics unit that is now home to the Monarch Wing. Until that night, Debra Gregg Wiegand hadn’t even known she was pregnant. And because she was unconscious during the delivery, she knew nothing of her child, who was promptly handed over for adoption.
“She never saw the baby,” said Cindy Ahn, a Skiff employee and childhood friend of Wiegand’s. “She didn’t even know if it was a boy or a girl.”
Fast forward several decades: Ahn and Wiegand, who had lost touch over the years, reconnected on Facebook. As they communicated with one another, the subject of that long-lost baby arose.
“She said she always wondered,” Ahn said. “I said, ‘Let’s start looking.’”
Ahn helped her friend with extensive research online and eventually unearthed the information needed to connect Wiegand with her child: a daughter, Lisa Marie Pelletier.
Wiegand sent a letter to Pelletier which, interestingly enough, arrived in time for the separated mother and daughter to first communicate on May 4: Cindy Ahn’s birthday.
The pair, who “couldn’t wait” to meet, according to Wiegand, first saw each other face to face two weeks later, when Pelletier traveled from Massachusetts to Arizona. This trip was soon followed by another, this time to Skiff, so that they could visit the location where Wiegand had given birth.
The gathering also included Terry Yoakum, Sr., Pelletier’s biological father, himself only a teenager when she was born.
When he first heard from his childhood sweetheart that their child had been found, “I thought it was a joke,” Yoakum said. “I thought someone was pranking me.”
Meeting her parents after a lifetime apart, Pelletier said she immediately recognized herself in them. Gesturing to her mom, she said, “I’m definitely her baby.”
“I knew it the minute I saw her,” Wiegand said.
“She has my nose, eyes and laugh. She has her dad’s smile and dimples.”
Pelletier’s adopted family, which included a brother, was a military one, so she grew up in places such as France, Germany and Egypt. Upon the loss of her adopted mother in 1990 – followed not too many years by her adopted father’s death – she began the search for her biological parents.
“If nothing else, I wanted to tell them both thank you,” Pelletier said. “At their ages, so young, they did the right thing in letting me be adopted.”
Unbeknownst to Pelletier, her real mother was feeling similar pangs.
“I needed to find her,” Wiegand said. “I had a void that needed to be filled.”
That void no longer exists, as the mother and daughter now communicate with each other daily and are even considering making arrangements to live in the same state.
“I feel complete for the first time in my life,” said Pelletier, who kept hugging her mom, as though she couldn’t quite believe she was really there.
In addition to their physical similarities, the women share a sense of humor.
“We should do the Oprah show!” Wiegand declared of their happy reunion.
“And maybe we’ll get some free gifts!” Pelletier chimed in.
In addition to touring the place of Pelletier’s birth, the family was able to witness as CEO Steve Long presented Pelletier with a commemorative birth certificate, which included her weight and length as a baby, as well as the name of her delivering physician, Dr. Marvin Moles. After Pelletier applied her thumbprints to the document, both she and Wiegand were in tears.
“This is just an amazing story,” Long said as he doled out tissues to mother and daughter.
Ahn, close at hand, agreed. “This whole thing did my heart good.” |
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July 8, 2010 |
Sullivan to serve as interim director of Skiff Home Care and Public Health |
Skiff Medical Center has announced the appointment of Carolyn Sullivan as interim Director of Skiff Home Care and Jasper County Public Health Nursing Services, effective immediately. Sullivan, while stepping into the position recently v ...
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Sullivan to serve as interim director of Skiff Home Care and Public Health
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Skiff Medical Center has announced the appointment of Carolyn Sullivan as interim Director of Skiff Home Care and Jasper County Public Health Nursing Services, effective immediately. Sullivan, while stepping into the position recently vacated by Jennifer Jordan, will continue carrying out her current duties as Director of Hospice of Jasper County.
The duties are a natural fit for Sullivan, who served as director of all three areas – home care, public health and hospice – from 1991 to 2004. She has been a member of the Skiff team since 1976.
The interim position is estimated to last six to eight weeks, during which time Skiff will do an internal applicant search to fill the role. Once a successful candidate has been selected, he or she will benefit from weekly mentoring provided by Sullivan. This will not only ease the transition into the home care/public health leadership, but also groom the person to eventually run hospice and Skiff’s Monarch Wing. Sullivan has announced her intent to retire June 2011, at which time a single director will once again have permanent oversight of all three areas of health-care service.
“In our ongoing goal to gain efficiencies, we’ve decided to merge hospice back into a single-entity management structure,” said Brett Altman, Clinical Operations Officer. “With the support of team leads for each of the three disciplines, the director will have strong support within a more streamlined arrangement.”
Sullivan said she is excited for the return to familiar territory at this stage in her career. “I’m looking forward to the opportunity to work with my home care and public health colleagues again prior to my retirement next summer.”
“We’re grateful to Carolyn for her willingness to take on these duties and to share her expertise with the person who will be named to step into the consolidated roles,” Altman said.
The position is expected to be posted for current Skiff employees as early as next week. |
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June 24, 2010 |
Skiff to relocate Sports Rehab & Physical Therapy Clinic |
Skiff Medical Center is excited to announce the relocation of the Sports Rehab & Physical Therapy Clinic, effective Aug. 2. Currently at 1730 E. 1st Ave., the clinic will take up residence in the lower level of the Ross Medical Arts Bui ...
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Skiff to relocate Sports Rehab & Physical Therapy Clinic
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Skiff Medical Center is excited to announce the relocation of the Sports Rehab & Physical Therapy Clinic, effective Aug. 2. Currently at 1730 E. 1st Ave., the clinic will take up residence in the lower level of the Ross Medical Arts Building (RMAB), 300 N. 4th Ave., E., on the northeast side of Skiff’s main campus.
The clinic, in its new location, will maintain its status as an office-based practice, intended for patients with commercial health insurance plans.
“Some patients are able to pay less for treatment in this setting,” said Brett Altman, Clinical Operations Officer, “because many insurance plans waive the deductible for outpatient therapy and charge a lower office visit co-pay instead. This clinic is a wonderful option for working-class families with large deductibles.”
Medicare/Medicaid beneficiaries will still utilize Skiff’s hospital outpatient rehab services next door at 204 N. 4th Ave. E., also located in the lower level of RMAB. By continuing to use a hospital-based service, they will not be subject to the annual financial caps on services (a combined $1,780 for speech and physical therapy services and a separate $1,780 for occupational therapy) which affect only office-based practices. Patients with commercial health insurance who have met their health insurance deductible for the year also often choose to receive physical therapy at Skiff’s hospital-based clinic.
“The excellence we provide will be consistent in both locations, with high-quality people, equipment and services,” said Matt Scotton, Director of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. “We are providing separate settings, both convenient and in close proximity to each other, to ensure we offer our patients financial advantages tailored to their circumstances.”
The clinic, in its original location, has been a considerable success for Skiff. The transition is simply taking advantage of space in the RMAB that wasn’t previously available and, in the process, is streamlining the delivery of care. This will result in cost-savings for the hospital.
“Health-care reimbursement is in a state of transition,” Scotton said, “and we need to take advantages of opportunities to create efficiencies.”
“Most expenses come in the form of labor costs,” Altman said. “We can improve in that area by sharing staff and space in the RMAB.”
Skiff’s PM&R department offers physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, massage therapy, sports medicine and audiology. Skiff employs 12 physical therapists with doctorate or master degrees, one physical therapist assistant and several board-certified specialists.
“The Newton community can be confident that Skiff Medical Center employs some of the most talented physical therapists in Iowa,” said CEO Steve Long. “Our patients will continue to receive exceptional customer service they’ve come to expect in our community, now in a new location.”
Plans for the building upon being vacated have not been finalized, but hospital officials will most likely consider selling the property and investing the proceeds in capital equipment needs.
The Skiff Sports Rehab & Physical Therapy Clinic is open 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. To schedule an appointment, call (641) 791-2300. |
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June 17, 2010 |
Skiff Auxiliary celebrates 2010 scholarship winners |
Twelve of the 16 Skiff Auxiliary scholarship winners were in attendance at the group’s celebratory luncheon. They were (front row from left) Katie Sparks, Kelsie Van Kooten, Shelby Damman, Katelyn Kiehl, (back row from left) Brian Rug ...
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Skiff Auxiliary celebrates 2010 scholarship winners
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Twelve of the 16 Skiff Auxiliary scholarship winners were in attendance at the group’s celebratory luncheon. They were (front row from left) Katie Sparks, Kelsie Van Kooten, Shelby Damman, Katelyn Kiehl, (back row from left) Brian Ruggle, John Isgrig, Leah Norcross, Michelle Rabedeaux, Sally Campbell, Sara Cahill, Jenna Rickley and Cory Keller.
The Skiff Medical Center Auxiliary recently honored the 16 winners of the 2010 Auxiliary Scholarships, totaling $10,000. The scholarships, for students pursuing higher education in health-related fields, are awarded on the basis of financial need, academic and professional achievement, and other factors.
Nursing scholarships
• Katelyn Kiehl – $1,000 (in honor of Lydia E. Swihart)
• Kayla Lagergren – $500 (in honor of Lois Vogel)
• Jenna Rickley – $1,000 (in honor of Sterling and Maxine Swanger)
• Kelsie Van Kooten – $500 (in honor of Janet and Joyce Slycord)
Health-related scholarships
• Brooke Berkey – $500
• Sara Cahill – $500
• Sally Campbell – $500
• Shelby Damman – $500
• Alyssa Hageman – $500 (in honor of Geneva Trost)
• John Isgrig – $500
• Cory Keller – $1,000
• Leah Norcross – $1,000
• Katelyn VanWyk – $500 (in honor of Ronald Ross)
• Michelle Rabedeaux – $500
• Brian Ruggle – $500 • Katie Sparks – $500 |
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June 17, 2010 |
New speech therapist joins Skiff Medical Center |
Skiff is proud to welcome Ashley McGrath, speech-language pathologist, to their Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation department.
Although a native of Illinois, McGrath actually comes to Newton by way of Memphis, Tenn.
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New speech therapist joins Skiff Medical Center
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Skiff is proud to welcome Ashley McGrath, speech-language pathologist, to their Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation department.
Although a native of Illinois, McGrath actually comes to Newton by way of Memphis, Tenn.
“It’s kind of an unusual story,” she said. “My boyfriend, Blake, had a job opportunity come up in Des Moines. At first, I didn’t like the idea of relocating, but I did a little bit of research online and found the opening at Skiff. The more I learned, the more I really wanted the job. Skiff made me excited to move!”
She also appreciates being closer to family, who live in the small town of Toluca, Ill. The youngest of six children – she has four older sisters and an older brother – McGrath knew she wanted a job where she could help make a difference. But speech therapy was not what she first went to school for.
“I started off as a political science major, intending to pursue a career in law,” she said. “But I immediately disliked it. All I did my first semester was cry!”
Her family helped her to find a happier path when her mother suggested she look into the career held by one of her sisters, a speech therapist.
“It was like a lightbulb clicked on,” McGrath said. “By November, I’d made plans to transfer to Illinois State University.”
McGrath majored in speech language pathology and stayed at the university to get her master’s in communication sciences and disorders.
“I’m so happy with my decision,” she said.
Once graduated, McGrath moved to Memphis, where she worked in both school and nursing home settings.
“Both populations were interesting to work with,” she said. “With children, you work on developing skills they need. With adults, you’re helping them to regain skills they have lost.”
McGrath has patients of all ages at Skiff, but spends most of her time with children, working on issues of language delay and articulation.
“I think I’m really good with kids,” she said. “I like to get down and play with them to see what helps each individual child. You definitely have to be patient you have your agenda, but the kids don’t necessarily care about your plans.”
“Ashley is kind, caring and easy to talk to,” said Matt Scotton, Director of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. “She is already doing a great job with the children and adults in her care.”
Both Skiff and the community have been welcoming, McGrath said. “Everyone is Team Skiff and Team Newton. It’s good to be part of that.”
As she settles into her role at the hospital, she’s eager to get the word out about speech therapy services.
“So much language development happens between ages one and two,” she said. “If parents or physicians are seeing issues early on, it’s good to utilize the therapy we have here. Every bit of time counts when it comes to kids.”
Scotton is pleased to see McGrath’s enthusiasm with her profession. “She has a wide variety of experience in the field of speech language pathology and she loves to learn. She is a wonderful addition to our team of therapists at Skiff.”
To learn more about speech therapy at Skiff Medical Center, please call (641) 791-4380. |
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June 3, 2010 |
OB-specialized physician to join Newton Clinic |
Family practice physician Malini Dandu, M.D., has accepted an offer to join Newton Clinic.
Dr. Dandu is currently finishing a fellowship in obstetrics in San Jose, Calif. She completed her family medicine residency at the Uni ...
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OB-specialized physician to join Newton Clinic
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Family practice physician Malini Dandu, M.D., has accepted an offer to join Newton Clinic.
Dr. Dandu is currently finishing a fellowship in obstetrics in San Jose, Calif. She completed her family medicine residency at the University of Illinois at Chicago, where she served as chief resident.
“We are excited about Dr. Dandu’s decision to practice medicine in Newton,” said clinic administrator Mark Thayer. “She is highly trained, having spent the past eight months doing a fellowship in high-risk obstetrics, including Cesarean sections. Her addition will greatly solidify the obstetrical services provided by Newton Clinic and Skiff Medical Center.”
“The recruitment of this top-notch physician is another step toward fulfilling our commitment to providing local access to the highest quality obstetrical care to residents of Jasper County,” said CEO Steve Long.
Dr. Dandu is certified by the Neonatal Resuscitation Program, and also in the areas of advanced life support in obstetrics, advanced trauma life support and advanced cardiac life support. She graduated medical school with honors and has been involved in the World Health Organization’s measles eradication program and the National Pulse Polio Immunization Program.
“Dr. Dandu is extraordinarily well trained,” said Dr. Leighton Frost. “She’s known as a hard worker and good listener, and for being very well liked by her colleagues. We’re eager to have her come to Newton.”
The administration and staff of the clinic and hospital believe that, in addition to her technical skills, Dr. Dandu has a winning personality that will appeal to those seeking health care.
“Her demeanor was an immediate hit with all of us,” Mark said. “Patients will find Dr. Dandu to be intelligent, friendly and compassionate.”
“She is soft-spoken and listens well,” said Dr. Steve Hill. “She will be well received by expectant moms.”
Dr. Dandu is a native of India, where she attended Ambedkar Medical College. Her husband worked as a general surgeon in India and intends to resume his medical practice in Iowa. In her spare time, Dr. Dandu enjoys swimming, tennis, ping pong, traveling, Indian dance and learning various languages.
Her anticipated start date is Aug. 16. |
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June 2, 2010 |
Birthday boys pay gifts forward to Skiff patients |
Logan and Luke Zaabel (left and center) and Clay Trotter (right) presented CEO Steve Long with 84 DVDs donated to Skiff Medical Center to benefit pediatric patients.
A trio of local youngsters recently decided to make t ...
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Birthday boys pay gifts forward to Skiff patients
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Logan and Luke Zaabel (left and center) and Clay Trotter (right) presented CEO Steve Long with 84 DVDs donated to Skiff Medical Center to benefit pediatric patients.
A trio of local youngsters recently decided to make their birthdays a special event for kids other than themselves.
Clay Trotter and Logan and Luke Zaabel hosted a birthday party attended by more than 30 friends. The guests were asked, instead of bringing a gift for the boys, to bring DVDs in new or good condition. These DVDs would then be donated to Skiff Medical Center so that pediatric patients can enjoy entertainment during their hospitalization.
Clay, Logan and Luke brought the DVDs in on May 24 and presented them to CEO Steve Long, who then enjoyed a treat of ice cream with the generous young men.
“We appreciated this opportunity to teach our children about good citizenship,” said Logan and Luke’s mother Pam Zaabel. “The boys have enjoyed the experience. Being able to eat ice cream with Mr. Long was more than they had hoped for. His interest in the boys’ project was inspiring.”
Children who attended the party included:
Austin Kennedy
Bauston VanSickle
Brennen Dodd
Brock Jordan
Cael Kellogg
Caity Antle
Chaison Loupee
Clay Trotter
Dalton Altemeier
Daniel Townsend
Gage Bakalar
Gage Linahon
Jace Dunsbergen
Jarrett Antle
Joe Stammeyer
Julian Hotchkin
Keith Steinbach
Lane Rose
Logan Heisdorffer
Logan Zaabel
Luke Zaabel
Madison Noe
Michael Kruse
Nathan Tremel
Noah Hammer
Paul Maharry
Peyton Patterson
Reagan Maple
Ryan Barr
Taryn Lovan
Tate Osborn
Tyler Stanton |
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April 22, 2010 |
Local couple fund life-saving defibrillator |
The Skiff Medical Center Foundation is proud to announce a generous donation made by Newton residents Doyle and Louise Churchill. The couple, married 60 years, is providing the funds to purchase a defibrillator for Skiff. The device is ...
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Local couple fund life-saving defibrillator
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The Skiff Medical Center Foundation is proud to announce a generous donation made by Newton residents Doyle and Louise Churchill. The couple, married 60 years, is providing the funds to purchase a defibrillator for Skiff. The device is used to treat urgent, life-threatening heart conditions, such as cardiac arrhythmia and ventricular fibrillation.
“The Lord and the community have been good to us over the years,” said Mr. Churchill. “This is a token in return.”
“We are so appreciative of the kind and giving nature of the Churchills and others like them,” said Bruce Hoffmeier, Foundation Director. “All of the donations we receive go directly toward equipment, supplies, scholarships and other items that help Skiff carry out its mission and vision.”
To learn more about the Foundation or to make a contribution, call (641) 791-4887 or e-mail bhoffmeier@skiffmed.com. |
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April 8, 2010 |
Scotton named Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Director |
Skiff Medical Center is proud to announce that Matt Scotton, physical therapist, has been named the new Director of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. The role was previously held by Brett Altman, who now serves as Clinical Operations ...
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Scotton named Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Director
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Skiff Medical Center is proud to announce that Matt Scotton, physical therapist, has been named the new Director of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. The role was previously held by Brett Altman, who now serves as Clinical Operations Officer for the organization.
Scotton has been with Skiff Medical Center for more than 15 years, and served as the department’s lead therapist for more than eight years. “These eight years allowed me to gain a lot of knowledge and experience in management,” Scotton said. “Brett was an excellent mentor and we shared a lot of the leadership duties.
And during the time Brett was serving as interim administrator, prior to Steve Long’s arrival, I was responsible for the daily operations in our department. All of this has helped to make this a fairly seamless transition.”
Scotton oversees a team of 11 physical therapists, two physical therapy assistants, an occupational therapist, an audiologist, two speech therapists, two secretary-receptionists, and a massage therapist.
“He is already a great leader and role model for us all in PM&R,” said physical therapist Robyn Friedman. “He has always been easy to approach if we had questions or needed help. He is a very positive, encouraging person and will be a great director.”
Altman said Scotton is patient-centered and “has a heart for patients.”
Physical therapist Jayne Goos agreed, saying, “He leads by example, incorporating excellence into his daily patient care.”
The feelings of admiration are mutual. “We have such super people working here,” Scotton said. “They care about our patients, about each other and about Skiff.”
Scotton will continue to work one on one with patients, which is a significant priority to him. “I love helping people learn to take care of themselves,” he said. “They’re so grateful to feel better. It is great to live and work in a community where people work so hard to get better and then tell us how much they appreciate our help.”
He knew the field was a good fit for him early on. As a young athlete, he got injured and required some physical therapy himself. After that, he was hooked. “I was fortunate to find my calling at a young age. I was only a high school freshman and I already knew what I wanted to do with my life.”
Scotton is a Central College graduate. He received his masters of physical therapy degree at the University of Iowa, and later earned his doctorate at Des Moines University. Scotton is also a certified athletic trainer and a certified strength and conditioning specialist. He began his career in Wisconsin, but moved to Newton in 1994 to be closer to family. “It was important to us to raise our children close to family,” he said. “We love Jasper County and we have deep roots here.”
Scotton and his wife, Sandy, have two daughters, Kora, 15, and Hannah, 13. In his spare time, he enjoys running and biking, including racing 50 miles on a rugged trail run and several off-road bike races exceeding 12 hours.
“I’m fascinated by human performance,” he said. “I guess this explains my hobbies and it certainly explains my career." |
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March 12, 2010 |
New Chief Nursing Officer announced |
Skiff Medical Center CEO Steve Long has announced the appointment of Mary Swoboda as Skiff’s new Chief Nursing Officer, effective April 26. Swoboda will take the position that has most recently been filled in an interim capacity by Ann ...
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New Chief Nursing Officer announced
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Skiff Medical Center CEO Steve Long has announced the appointment of Mary Swoboda as Skiff’s new Chief Nursing Officer, effective April 26. Swoboda will take the position that has most recently been filled in an interim capacity by Ann Polking, OR Director.
Swoboda is currently serving as the Chief Nurse Executive at Aurora Medical Center in Two Rivers, Wis., a position she has held for more than six years. In addition to her senior leadership experience, Swoboda has 15-plus years in a variety of patient care management roles. She also spent more than a decade serving in staff nurse and house supervisor positions.
Swoboda received her master’s degree in management and organizational behavior from Silver Lake College, Manitowoc, Wis., and her bachelor of science in nursing from the University of Wisconsin.
“Mary is coming to us highly recommended and at an important time for Skiff,” said Dr. Leighton Frost, Medical Staff President. “I was very impressed by her problem-solving abilities, as well as her depth of experience.”
“She’s very knowledgeable of the triumphs and challenges facing a rural hospital,” said Polking. “She will be a huge asset for us.”
Long and Swoboda worked together at Aurora Medical Center and he said that past interaction gives him unwavering confidence in her. “I am thrilled she will join the Skiff family. She brings a wealth of experience in hands-on patient care and senior hospital leadership, and she also has a true heart for patients.”
Mike Anderson, Chief Finance Officer, said he considers Swoboda’s interpersonal skills a particular asset. “She has a warm personality, and a calm reassurance that will provide our patient care providers an excellent example to follow as they tend to their patients.”
Brett Altman, Clinical Operations Officer, agreed. “A comment Mary made in regards to her leadership philosophy that really resonated with me was, ‘It’s not about me, it’s about the people who work and receive care here.’”
The recruitment process for filling the CNO position involved a number of interview sessions, which Ellen Graber, Director of Human Resources, participated in. “Every time we spoke, Mary emphasized how she will place listening to our staff at a high priority. She is eager to meet with all of our caregivers and learn about our hospital.”
Swoboda is excited for her new role, which she characterized as “one that provides the opportunity to share a passion for excellence for patients, caregivers, providers and the community.” |
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March 12, 2010 |
Obstetrics Department unveils state-of-the-art infant security system |
Skiff Medical Center is offering parents additional peace of mind with the installation of a leading-edge infant security system.
The United Hospital Services Hugs Infant Security System, approved for purchase by the Skiff Boa ...
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Obstetrics Department unveils state-of-the-art infant security system
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Skiff Medical Center is offering parents additional peace of mind with the installation of a leading-edge infant security system.
The United Hospital Services Hugs Infant Security System, approved for purchase by the Skiff Board of Trustees in December, was installed last month. On Feb. 26, a fire prevention inspector from the Iowa Department of Public Safety assessed the system and approved it for use. At the conclusion of OB staff training on March 2 and 3, the system went live.
Designed to prevent infant abductions, the system utilizes a “Hugs” radio transmitter tag contained in a small casing, attached to the baby using a tamper-proof strap. The tag is put on within minutes of the baby’s birth, as soon as health-care providers have determined that mother and baby are both stable and doing well.
This system features skin-sensing technology, which activates as soon as the band is placed on the baby. If this band is cut, removed or tampered with, alarms will sound to alert staff and the unit will go into lockdown status to ensure the safety of the baby.
Electronic security systems have become the standard of care in obstetrics nationwide. Skiff’s previous system was put in place in 1998 and was no longer being supported.
“It was perfectly functional and all of our babies were protected,” said interim OB Director Nancy Burke, “but if something had stopped working, it could no longer be fixed. So this was the right time to act.”
Skiff is at the forefront of this form of obstetrical technology, with the Hugs system having just been incorporated in West Des Moines hospitals.
“With the implementation of this system,” said Kerry Soule, Director of Materials Management, “Skiff will offer the best protection available for our newborns and the reassurance that goes with that for their families.” |
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March 12, 2010 |
New leadership, organizational chart announced |
Following more than a year of administrative turnover and interim management, Skiff Medical Center has announced permanent leadership plans for the hospital, as well as a modified and streamlined organizational chart.
“At Skif ...
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New leadership, organizational chart announced
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Following more than a year of administrative turnover and interim management, Skiff Medical Center has announced permanent leadership plans for the hospital, as well as a modified and streamlined organizational chart.
“At Skiff, we have hundreds of people doing thousands of different tasks every day,” said CEO Steve Long, “but all with the same goal in mind – taking great care of our patients. When operations are organized, things run flawlessly. But sometimes they get out of kilter. Key people leave, new services are added, or the world just plain changes around us.”
In the latter half of 2009, a number of leadership positions were filled on a temporary basis by representatives from consulting firm B.E. Smith. Upon conclusion of work with B.E. Smith, those positions were taken on by Skiff employees in an interim capacity.
Long, stating his belief in the utilization and growth of existing leaders, announced on Tuesday that, with the exception of the Chief Nursing Office role, all leadership positions will be filled internally.
The jobs and individuals involved are as follows:
• Chief Nursing Officer – Mary Swoboda, currently serving as the Chief Nurse Executive at Aurora Medical Center in Two Rivers, Wis., will join Skiff as CNO on April 26. Swoboda will oversee patient care services, which include anesthesia, surgery, medical-surgical, pediatrics, skilled nursing, emergency and trauma, respiratory therapy, obstetrics, pharmacy, radiology, laboratory, nutrition and wellness, diabetes education, social services, quality management, infection control, education and risk management.
• Clinical Operations Officer – This newly created position will oversee clinical services, including home care, public health, occupational health, rehabilitation, cardiac rehab, physician clinics, rural clinics, the Skiff Specialty Clinic, marketing and public relations, and the Skiff Auxiliary. Brett Altman, who served as interim administrator in the two months prior to Long’s arrival, will assume this role. His position as Director of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation will be filled internally by an individual yet to be determined.
• Chief Financial Officer – Controller Mike Anderson, serving as interim CFO since late December, has been named permanent CFO. He will oversee accounting and payroll, the business office, materials management and laundry, clinical information services and data analysis.
• Human Resources Director – HR Generalist Ellen Graber, serving as interim HR Director since late December, has been named permanent HR Director.
• Obstetrics Director – Ann Polking, who will continue as interim CNO until late April and as permanent OR Director, will also take on the role of OB Director at the end of March. B.E. Smith’s Nancy Burke has held the position since June. Polking will also oversee the areas of quality management, infection control, education and risk management on an interim basis.
• Public Relations Director – PR Specialist Stephanie Alexander, who has overseen the department since early November, has been named permanent PR Director.
• Clinical Information Services Director – Janice Balmer, previously the Director of Health Information Services, will now oversee the combined services of HIM, electronic medical records and IT/telecommunication infrastructures. These functions will be managed, respectively, by Deb Drewis, Dianna Machin and Jim McVey.
• Financial Analyst – Karri Woody, previously in a clinical function, will assume this role. The job will, in part, replace the position of Controller, which will no longer exist.
“We are all ready to move forward,” said Altman. “We are going to go from very good to very great by utilizing the ideas, input and leadership of the people at Skiff. I look forward to growing together and learning from each other personally and professionally.” |
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Feb. 12, 2010 |
Newton Clinic unveils new Web site |
Newton Clinic is proud to announce a complete renovation of its Web site at www.newtonclinic.com.
“We are very enthusiastic about our new site,” said clinic administrator Mark Thayer. ...
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Newton Clinic unveils new Web site
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Newton Clinic is proud to announce a complete renovation of its Web site at www.newtonclinic.com.
“We are very enthusiastic about our new site,” said clinic administrator Mark Thayer. “Newton Clinic is a significant entity in this community and we needed an online presence to match. This site provides that.”
The new Web site is user-friendly, up-to-date and easy to navigate. Visitors can pay their bills online, learn more about their physicians and discover the latest news at the clinic. Upcoming additions will include job openings, printable forms and extensive detail on the clinic’s Laser Solutions services.
“Not only is the site filled with information, but it’s also gorgeous, with vibrant colors and lots of photos,” said nurse practitioner Beth Preston. “We have a wonderful, thriving clinic that we are proud of now we have a Web site we can be proud of, too.”
Newton Clinic is a multi-specialty clinic serving the citizens of Newton and the greater Jasper County area. Their 16 providers offer health-care services in the areas of family medicine, obstetrics, gynecology, internal medicine and podiatry, with physicians offering 24/7 on-call coverage. Newton Clinic is physician-owned and employs about 60 full-time employees. The 17,000-square-foot facility includes a full-service laboratory, full-service X-ray department, obstetric ultrasound unit, fetal non-stress testing unit, video flexible sigmoidoscope unit, treadmill, and three surgical procedure/casting rooms. To schedule an appointment, please call (641) 792-2112 or toll-free (888) 788-2804.
To learn more, visit www.newtonclinic.com. |
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Feb. 12, 2010 |
Newton Clinic establishes OB coverage plan |
Newton Clinic has organized a new policy for coverage of obstetric services, effective April 1. The plan comes after the announcement that Dr. Paul Nieves, OBGYN, will be leaving the clinic at the end of March.
While Newton C ...
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Newton Clinic establishes OB coverage plan
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Newton Clinic has organized a new policy for coverage of obstetric services, effective April 1. The plan comes after the announcement that Dr. Paul Nieves, OBGYN, will be leaving the clinic at the end of March.
While Newton Clinic is working closely with Skiff Medical Center in aggressive recruitment efforts, clinic administrator Mark Thayer said a short-term plan is necessary. “Our goal is to recruit two new physicians to provide OB services,” he said. “In the meantime, we will ensure that our OB patients continue to get the high-quality care they expect and deserve.”
Newton Clinic physicians currently proving obstetric services are as follows:
• Dr. Tereasa Van Zee – Dr. Van Zee is accepting up to six new OB patients per month. Please note that she herself is currently pregnant with twins and is anticipating a three-month maternity leave in spring/summer ’10. She is off on Wednesdays.
• Dr. Pat Edwards – Dr. Edwards is accepting unlimited new OB patients. He will have dedicated OB times in his schedule from 1-3 p.m. on Tuesdays and 1:30-2:30 p.m. on Fridays. He is off on Thursdays.
• Dr. Leighton Frost – Dr. Frost is accepting unlimited new OB patients. He will also be performing Cesarean sections. He is off on Fridays.
• Dr. Steve Hill – Dr. Hill is not accepting OB patients for prenatal care however, he will be assisting in OB call for deliveries and will be performing Cesarean sections. He is off on Thursdays.
While Drs. Van Zee and Edwards regularly include OB care in their practices, Drs. Frost and Hill will do so on a temporary basis until the recruitment of new physicians to Newton Clinic. The doctors providing OB coverage will make every effort to be present for the births of their own patients’ babies in the event they are unavailable, the doctor on OB call will attend the delivery.
“We appreciate the flexibility our physicians have shown,” said Thayer. “Women and their families want a physician they can trust and who can bring their babies safely into the world. We are committed to offering them that.” |
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Feb. 12, 2010 |
General surgeon to join Skiff Medical Center |
General surgeon Dominic Formaro, D.O., has accepted an offer to join Skiff Medical Center.
Dr. Formaro is currently in his fifth and final year of general surgery internship and residency at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines. ...
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General surgeon to join Skiff Medical Center
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General surgeon Dominic Formaro, D.O., has accepted an offer to join Skiff Medical Center.
Dr. Formaro is currently in his fifth and final year of general surgery internship and residency at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines. He received his undergraduate degree at Drake University and attended medical school at the College of Osteopathic Medicine at Des Moines University.
Steve Long, Skiff’s President and CEO, describes Dr. Formaro as an exceptional individual. “He will make an extraordinary contribution to the hospital and our community.”
Dr. Formaro said he is looking forward to establishing his surgical practice in what he describes as a “resilient and supportive community.”
“The physicians and staff at Skiff are warm and genuine individuals,” he said. “They really care about providing the best care for Newton.”
The recruitment of Dr. Formaro was a combined effort between Skiff, Newton Clinic and independent physicians. Long cited the following individuals as being particularly essential to the successful endeavor: Director of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and former interim administrator Brett Altman board member Jeff King OR Director and interim CNO Ann Polking orthopedic surgeon Dr. Ron Charles general surgeon Dr. Gary Richardson Newton Clinic physicians Dr. Leighton Frost, Dr. Paul Ruggle, Dr. Pat Edwards and Dr. Steve Hill Newton Clinic administrator Mark Thayer and former board member Gary Kahn.
“I consider the addition of Dr. Formaro to the Skiff staff a winning situation for all involved,” said Dr. Edwards. “He arrives with excellent credentials and top-notch training. I feel that, with the support of the current medical staff, he has a great opportunity to develop a very active surgical practice in Newton.”
A number of communities were vying for the services of Dr. Formaro, who first began considering Newton this past summer.
“Each time we talked,” said Thayer, “it became more evident that Dr. Formaro had the qualities to be a successful Newton physician. He shows great compassion toward his patients and he comes highly recommended.”
Dr. Hill believes Dr. Formaro’s close attention to detail will be a key to his success. “What most impressed me is that he is a very good listener. That’s an important quality in a physician.”
Polking agreed, adding, “He was very open and genuine and spoke of providing surgical care for patients with dignity and respect. I immediately liked him.”
These impressions are spot-on, according to Pam Winslow, coordinator for Mercy’s General Surgery Residency Program. “I have worked very closely with Dr. Formaro for several years and he will be a great addition to Skiff’s staff.”
“We’re excited to welcome him here,” Thayer said. “He will be an integral part of the ongoing success of the Newton medical community.”
“I’m pleased to be a part of the positive changes happening at Skiff,” said Dr. Formaro. “The environment is one of enthusiasm and positivity.”
Dr. Formaro’s anticipated start date is July 12. |
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Jan. 31, 2010 |
Hospice conference to look at loss within families |
Registrations are being accepted for Hospice of Jasper County’s annual spring conference. This year’s event, which will be held Friday, May 14, is titled “Life and Loss – Living and Dying in the Family System.”
The conference ...
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Hospice conference to look at loss within families
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Registrations are being accepted for Hospice of Jasper County’s annual spring conference. This year’s event, which will be held Friday, May 14, is titled “Life and Loss – Living and Dying in the Family System.”
The conference is intended for nurses, social workers, mental health counselors, substance abuse counselors, chaplains, funeral directors, hospice staff and volunteers and members of the community.
The conference speaker will be Jackson Rainer, Ph.D. This national known and respected psychotherapist, teacher and supervisor has worked for more than 25 years directing community mental health institutions and agencies, teaching in university settings and more. Currently serving as Professor and Director of Clinical Training for the Speed program at Georgia Southern University, Dr. Rainer also is the former chair of the Publication Board for Division 29, Psychotherapy, of the American Psychological Association, is on the editorial and publication boards of seven psychology journals, and serves as media representative for the APA.
Dr. Rainer specializes in work surrounding the crisis of loss due to catastrophic, chronic and terminal illness. He recently co-authored a book entitled “Crisis Counseling and Therapy.”
At the conclusion of the conference, participants should be able to:
• Describe the issues related to love, death and the meaning of life from a historical perspective.
• Develop a frame of reference that supports caregiver boundaries, philosophy and practice within a chronically ill, acute or terminally ill population.
• Distinguish typical grieving processes from depression and burnout, and develop coping skills to be responsive to personal and professional needs.
• Identify the rituals, rites of passage, communication styles, structure and roles within family systems.
• Explore complicated grief and its impact on personal and professional adaptive behaviors.
The fee for the conference is $35, which also covers breaks, lunch and handouts. For more information on the conference, call Hospice of Jasper County at (641) 787-3146. |
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Jan. 27, 2010 |
Skiff baby wins $1,000
college savings giveaway |
Pictured, left to right: OB nurse Vicki Schut, big sister Alex Riney, father Matthew Riney, OB nurse Carla Johnson, mother Casie Riney, baby Jackson Riney, family physician Dr. Min Pak, State Treasurer Michael L. Fitzgerald, board cha ...
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Skiff baby wins $1,000
college savings giveaway
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Pictured, left to right: OB nurse Vicki Schut, big sister Alex Riney, father Matthew Riney, OB nurse Carla Johnson, mother Casie Riney, baby Jackson Riney, family physician Dr. Min Pak, State Treasurer Michael L. Fitzgerald, board chair Debby Pence, CEO Steve Long and interim OB Director Nancy Burke.
During a special ceremony last week, State Treasurer Michael L. Fitzgerald awarded a $1,000 College Savings Iowa account to Jackson Riney, the most recent winner in Iowa’s Baby 529 Giveaway. Jackson was born on Dec. 14, 2009, at Skiff Medical Center, to parents Casie and Matthew Riney of Newton.
The College Savings Iowa BABY 529 Giveaway awards this special gift each month to a single baby, selected at random, from all entries received state-wide. Sixty-six Iowa hospitals are currently participating in the program.
“I am pleased that Skiff Medical Center joined our effort to increase awareness about the benefits of saving for college,” Fitzgerald said. “We want families to get a jump start on saving from day one because while the value of a college education is priceless, the cost of it can be overwhelming.”
College Savings Iowa is a state-sponsored 529 plan designed to give families a tax-advantaged way to save money for college. Investors can choose from 13 Vanguard investment options. Iowa taxpayers can deduct up to $2,811 in contributions per beneficiary account from their adjusted gross income in 2010, and there are no income or residency restrictions. Withdrawals used to pay for qualified higher education expenses including tuition books, supplies, and room and board are free of state and federal taxes. Funds can be used at any accredited college, university, community college or technical training school in the United States or abroad. For more information on College Savings Iowa, call (888) 672-9116 or visit www.collegesavingsiowa.com. |
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Jan. 22, 2010 |
New CEO joins Skiff Medical Center |
Steve Long, CEO and President of Skiff Medical Center, began work at the hospital this week. His arrival comes about two months after his appointment by the Skiff Board of Trustees.
Following a day of orientation on Monday, L ...
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New CEO joins Skiff Medical Center
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Steve Long, CEO and President of Skiff Medical Center, began work at the hospital this week. His arrival comes about two months after his appointment by the Skiff Board of Trustees.
Following a day of orientation on Monday, Long spent Tuesday meeting with employees.
“I’m really, really happy to be here,” he said. “My family and I hadn’t even finished unpacking before I started hearing stories from people in town about what a phenomenal organization we have.”
He cited one patient who had been born at the hospital and received her health care there for the past 60-plus years. “She told me, ‘I would never go anywhere else than Skiff,’” he said. “That’s a testament to what the employees do and the high level of care and compassion they offer.”
Carolyn Sullivan, Hospice Director, said she is excited to have Long on board. “Steve brings much-needed optimism and fresh ideas. He shows sincerity and is very committed to Skiff and our community.”
An Iowa native, Long said he is thrilled to be able to move his family back to the state. Earlier in his career, he spent several years with the United States Air Force before moving into leadership roles at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston and Select Specialty Hospital, Davenport, Iowa. His most recent position was as Chief Administrative Officer at Aurora Medical Center in Wisconsin.
He is a graduate of The University of Iowa, from which he also holds two masters degrees. He and his wife, Dorothy, have four children, ages 20, 18, 13 and 12.
“My family is so happy to return to Iowa,” he said. “Newton is a wonderful community and we’re excited to start putting down roots here.”
One of the first things Long intends to do at Skiff is to meet with directors and managers one on one, to discuss what’s working and what could be improved.
“That really impressed me,” said Jane Hettinger, Radiology Director. “He’s taking an interest in our feedback.”
Ann Polking, Operating Room Director and interim Chief Nursing Officer, agreed. “I could immediately feel his energy and enthusiasm. I can tell he truly believes in – and shares – Skiff’s mission.” |
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Jan. 18, 2010 |
OB physician leaving Newton Clinic, recruitment to begin immediately |
Newton Clinic has accepted the resignation of Dr. Paul Nieves, OBGYN, effective March 30, 2010. The physician is taking a position at a corporate hospital in Tennessee and is no longer accepting new OB patients.
“We are grate ...
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OB physician leaving Newton Clinic, recruitment to begin immediately
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Newton Clinic has accepted the resignation of Dr. Paul Nieves, OBGYN, effective March 30, 2010. The physician is taking a position at a corporate hospital in Tennessee and is no longer accepting new OB patients.
“We are grateful to Dr. Nieves for his 10 years of dedication to Newton Clinic, Skiff Medical Center and our community,” said Mark Thayer, clinic administrator. “We wish him the best.”
Dr. Nieves expressed regret over his departure and said that only a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity like this could have lured him away.
“Working at Newton Clinic and with the staff at Skiff have been some of the most rewarding and memorable years of my life,” he said. “I have grown professionally and personally because of the people I have worked with here. I know they will continue to deliver compassionate and innovative health care.”
Steve Long, new CEO of Skiff Medical Center, said Dr. Nieves’ resignation throws open the doors for new possibilities that they are excited to explore. “We are committed to not only maintaining but growing obstetric services for Newton and the surrounding areas.”
He cited recent improvements, including Newton Clinic remodeling to create a large, state-of-the-art OB suite, Skiff’s investment in a centralized fetal monitoring system and, starting next month, the installation of a cutting-edge infant security system.
Immediately following Dr. Nieves’ letter of resignation, Long and Thayer held a collaborative strategic meeting with the physicians of Newton Clinic and other health-care professionals. They report that short-term plans are forming to provide comprehensive OB coverage upon Dr. Nieves’ departure.
As for the long-term, Thayer said, “Newton Clinic and Skiff Medical Center will work tirelessly in our recruitment of a new OBGYN as we continue our long-term tradition of providing the best care.”
Bringing a child into the world is a momentous occasion, said Long, “one where you want a vital combination of compassion and technology. Together, Newton Clinic and Skiff commit to providing obstetrical services to the women and families of our community.” |
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Dec. 31, 2009 |
Free H1N1 vaccine clinics announced |
As the bustle of the holidays passes, Skiff Medical Center and Jasper County Public Health are reminding Iowans to make time for a 2009 H1N1 vaccination. Anyone who has not yet been vaccinated against H1N1 is encouraged to take advantag ...
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Free H1N1 vaccine clinics announced
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As the bustle of the holidays passes, Skiff Medical Center and Jasper County Public Health are reminding Iowans to make time for a 2009 H1N1 vaccination. Anyone who has not yet been vaccinated against H1N1 is encouraged to take advantage of upcoming free H1N1 vaccine clinics:
• 4-6 p.m., Jan. 14 – former office of Dr. Greg Stanislav, lower level of Ross Medical Arts Building, 300 N. 4th Ave. E., Newton
• 10-11:30 a.m., Jan. 15 – Colfax Senior Center, 1 E. Howard St., Colfax
• 11:45 a.m.-1:15 p.m., Jan. 18 – Monroe City Hall, 206 W. Sherman, Monroe
Individuals unable to attend one of the clinics can also get the vaccination from their doctor’s office or one of the following pharmacies:
• Medicine Shoppe
• Medicap Pharmacy
• Walgreens
• HyVee Pharmacy
Please note that if you are currently pregnant, you will need to present a doctor’s order to be able to receive the vaccine.
Though H1N1 has affected many people in Jasper County, the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) says more than 90 percent of Iowans are still at risk for getting this disease.
“Now that the holidays are over, it is likely more people will become sick with H1N1,” said Jennifer Jordan, Director of Public Health. “In addition, this is the time we see rates of season flu increasing. People who haven’t been vaccinated against either H1N1 or the season flu are at risk for all fair strains – three seasonal and 2009 H1N1.”
Because another wave of H1N1 is likely to occur in early 2010, it is important for parents to ensure their children are vaccinated as they head back to school after the holidays. It is equally important for adults to be vaccinated. Family members who get influenza often spread the virus to each other. The result can be several days or even weeks missed from work or school.
For more information about the H1N1 vaccination clinic, call the Jasper County Public Health Nursing Service at (641) 792-5086. |
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Dec. 14, 2009 |
Skiff holds Employee Service Awards |
Skiff Medical Center honored 18 individuals with a combined 400 years of employment during the 2009 Employee Service Awards held at the hospital on Friday.
Employees, physicians and board members were invited to attend the lun ...
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Skiff holds Employee Service Awards
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Skiff Medical Center honored 18 individuals with a combined 400 years of employment during the 2009 Employee Service Awards held at the hospital on Friday.
Employees, physicians and board members were invited to attend the luncheon. Interim administrator Brett Altman, also a service award recipient, emceed the event and introduced each honoree to the packed room. The audience responded with applause, laughter and tears as department directors spoke of their employees and what they have meant to Skiff.
Carol Hammer, RN, works in Skiff’s Home Care department and has logged in 35 years.
“Things have changed since I was hired,” she said, noting that the building wasn’t even air-conditioned when she started. “But it’s always been a great place to work.”
That’s the message heard time and again, said board member Lois Vogel, who worked at Skiff from 1969-2004. “The employees aren’t just coming in to work they’re coming in to be with their family and friends. They come to work and they’re happy about it. One woman who’s been here 39 years told me, ‘I can’t quit. I just love this place too much. I don’t know what I’d do without it.’”
Altman believes loyalty is the key for employment longevity. “These employees have shown tremendous dedication to Skiff,” he said, “and for that we are appreciative.”
The following individuals were recognized at Friday’s event:
• Cindy Gilbert, Carol Hammer – 35 years
• Sue Wolters, Willie Lahart, Linda Harrelson – 30 years
• Bob Webster, Dennis Harrelson, Deb Nilles – 25 years
• Jayne Goos, Jane Isebrand, Sally Vasquez, Peg Ehler – 20 years
• Janice Balmer, Brett Altman, Shelby Healey, Brenda Smith, Matt Scotton – 15 years
• Tiffany Ahn – 10 years
Click here for photos from the service awards.
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Dec. 11, 2009 |
Skiff offers precautions to prevent frostbite |
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Skiff offers precautions to prevent frostbite
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Click here for a fact sheet on frost bite from the Iowa Department of Public Health.
Bitterly cold air has moved into Iowa, following the blizzard that roared across most of the state this week. The heavy snowfall combined with drifting from the high winds resulted in cancelled classes for many Iowa school children. Deep snow, in addition to making shoveling a necessity, provides the perfect opportunity for sledding, making snowmen and other outdoor activities however, the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) reminds Iowans to protect themselves against the extremely cold air and the wind chill. Iowans should be aware of the dangers of frostbite and hypothermia during such severely cold conditions.
Frostbite is an injury to the body caused by freezing. It most often affects exposed parts of the body like the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers or toes. Severe cases of frostbite can lead to amputation.
According to Dr. Tariq Mallick, Emegency Department Director at Skiff Medical Center, the ER generally sees frostbite in people also suffering from hypothermia. Both conditions may occur in someone who has spent a long period outdoors.
“An example we see,” Dr. Mallick said, “is their car breaks down and there is a delay for help to arrive, or they leave their vehicle and wander off looking for assistance.”
Signs of frostbite include white or grayish-yellow patches of skin, skin that feels unusually firm or waxy, or numbness. A person is often unaware of frostbite until someone else points it out because the frozen tissues are numb. It’s especially dangerous for people with conditions such as diabetes, who may lack some sensation in their feet even in normal temperatures.
“It is very important that people avoid long exposure to extreme cold, such as what we saw this week,” Dr. Mallick said. “If you have to be outside, dress warmly, including thick socks – maybe two pairs. Keep your hands and feet from getting wet. Take frequent breaks by coming indoors.”
Parents are encouraged to have their children wear a hat, as well as a scarf to cover their face and mouth. Also, mittens are preferable over gloves, as they keep fingers warmer. Multiple layers of clothing provide better protection than a single heavy article.
If you must be outside for any length of time, make sure you frequently check yourself and your children for warning signs. If your skin shows these signs of freezing, go into a warm place immediately. Warm up frozen/chilled skin by pressing against normal temperature skin (put frozen fingers in arm pits). DO NOT massage frozen/chilled skin DO NOT rub with snow and DO NOT place hot items against the cold skin as this could cause more damage. Seek medical attention if skin does not quickly return to normal color and sensation. |
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Nov. 18, 2009 |
Interim CEO, B.E. Smith leaving Skiff |
Skiff Medical Center’s Board of Trustees has accepted the resignation of interim CEO Francie Jahn, effective immediately. Jahn, who has been in the role since it was vacated by Kris Baumgart in January, joined the organization in August ...
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Interim CEO, B.E. Smith leaving Skiff
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Skiff Medical Center’s Board of Trustees has accepted the resignation of interim CEO Francie Jahn, effective immediately. Jahn, who has been in the role since it was vacated by Kris Baumgart in January, joined the organization in August 2008 as Vice President of Patient Care Services.
Jahn’s resignation comes one day after the board appointed Steve Long as the new CEO. He will step into the role in mid-January.
In the meantime, the board has selected Brett Altman, Director of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, to serve as interim administrator.
Altman said he will be a “60-day bridge,” serving the organization until Long’s arrival. He will remain in his office in the Ross Medical Arts Building and will return to his regular duties in mid- to late January.
“Brett will have authority over all the day-to-day operations of Skiff,” said board chair Debby Pence, “with the exception of hiring and firing.”
Altman believes the coming weeks will be encouraging ones and is eager to work with the board, physicians, directors and employees. “I think it is important for each of us to take ownership of a very positive outlook and build each other and this organization back up.”
An additional change at Skiff will be the conclusion of work with consulting firm B.E. Smith, which has filled several interim management roles and helped carry out some recommendations from the operational assessment completed earlier in the year.
Pence said the Board of Trustees has put in a notice to finish out Skiff’s contracts with B.E. Smith. Barring any unforseen circumstances, the board intends for most – if not all – of the firm’s representatives to be gone by the end of the year.
“During the remainder of B.E. Smith’s time with Skiff,” Altman said, “they will be here primarily in an advisory capacity, focusing on information transfer. Our goal is for all hand-offs to be as seamless as possible.”
“We hope that the conclusion of the B.E. Smith contracts will alleviate any ongoing fears of ‘outsiders’ making decisions,” said board member Lois Vogel. “Their presence here was justified, as they assisted us with actions that were difficult but necessary. That being said, we are now ready to move forward out of this challenging time stronger than ever.”
Pence believes the next few months will be a time of positive transition. “We all want to achieve healing and unity,” she said, “and I think the pieces are now in place for that to happen.” |
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Nov. 17, 2009 |
Steve Long named new Skiff CEO |
Skiff Medical Center’s Board of Trustees has announced the appointment of Steve Long as Skiff’s new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective mid-January. Long will take the position that was vacated by Kris Baumgart in early 200 ...
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Steve Long named new Skiff CEO
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Skiff Medical Center’s Board of Trustees has announced the appointment of Steve Long as Skiff’s new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective mid-January. Long will take the position that was vacated by Kris Baumgart in early 2009 and subsequently filled in an interim capacity by Francie Jahn, Vice President of Patient Care Services.
An Iowa native, Long spent several years with the United States Air Force before moving into leadership roles at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston and Select Specialty Hospital, Davenport, Iowa. He currently serves as Chief Administrative Officer at Aurora Medical Center in Wisconsin.
Long is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and is active in his community, including the Rotary Club and Chamber of Commerce. He is a graduate of The University of Iowa, from which he also holds two masters degrees. He and his wife, Dorothy, have four children, ages 20, 18, 13 and 12.
Board chair Debby Pence said remarks on certain characteristics came up repeatedly as Long was being considered for the position. “What people mentioned time after time was his compassion, his trustworthiness, his strong personal values. And those are qualities that line up with our mission.”
Brett Altman, Director of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, said he believes Long will be a strong, transparent and approachable leader. “One person who worked with him said he is the most compassionate, hands-on, committed, kind, caring, trustworthy, family-oriented CEO she has had in 20 years. In fact, she said she hasn’t worked with a CEO who can hold a candle to Steve.”
According to Pence, the input of board-elect members Dr. Gary Richardson and Lois Vogel was vital during the candidate interviews. “They were involved in this process and they had as much say as the five people serving on the board at that time. We are all backing Steve Long 100 percent.”
Vogel was drawn to Long’s vision for the future. “He believes our long-term solution is growth, achieved through increasing volumes, physician recruitment and product line development, all while maintaining a right-sized workforce.”
During the interview process, Long met with Skiff board members, physicians, directors and employees. At that time, he stated that his priority will be focusing on the fundamentals, most especially patient care.
“I believe we make a promise to patients,” he said. “A promise to not only care for them, but care about them. And when we develop caregiver engagement – which includes caring about each other – we earn patient loyalty.” |
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Nov. 12, 2009 |
Jasper County Public Health announces widened eligibility for H1N1 vaccination |
More people are now eligible to receive vaccination against the H1N1 influenza virus, according to information released by Jasper County Public Health.
The updated population groups include:
• People ages 6 months through ...
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Jasper County Public Health announces widened eligibility for H1N1 vaccination
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More people are now eligible to receive vaccination against the H1N1 influenza virus, according to information released by Jasper County Public Health.
The updated population groups include:
• People ages 6 months through 24 years
• People ages 25 through 64 years who are at higher risk because of chronic health disorders or compromised immune systems
In addition, the following continue to be eligible to receive vaccination:
• Pregnant women
• People who live with or care for children younger than 6 months of age
• Health-care and emergency medical services (EMS) personnel
“We encourage people who are eligible for the vaccine to contact one of our community partners,” said Jennifer Jordan, director of Jasper County Public Health.
Community partners who have H1N1 vaccine for the public include:
• Baxter Health Services
• Colfax Health Services
• Dr. Ruth Spierenburg
• Jasper County Public Health (by appointment only at (641) 792-5086)
• Mercy Colfax Clinic
• Monroe Family Health Center
• Monroe Health Services
• Newton Clinic (for current patients only)
• Prairie City Family Clinic
• Sully Family Health Center
In addition, all pharmacies in Jasper County, with the exception of Wal-Mart, now have the vaccine.
Jordan stresses the importance of getting the vaccine if you are eligible. “Since September, we’ve had almost 500 Iowans hospitalized with H1N1,” she said. “We don’t want to see those numbers grown by cases that could have been prevented.”
At first, children were particularly affected by H1N1, but now a growing number of adults are becoming ill. For those adults, taking care of themselves is important not only to speed their own recovery, but also to stop the spread of illness to others. This means staying home from work, school, travel, shopping, social events and public gatherings if you believe you have H1N1. The symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. Diarrhea and vomiting also have been reported with H1N1. The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) and Jasper County Public Health recommend you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine.
Caution should be practiced within the home, as well. “Stay in your room,” advised Jordan, “and consider wearing a face mask to help prevent spreading the virus if you need to go into other parts of your home.”
With Thanksgiving around the corner, it’s especially important to consider the health of others when socializing or shopping.
“None of us wants to miss out on good times and food with our family,” Jordan said. “But the biggest favor you can do for your loved ones is staying away when you’re sick. That can mean staying in a different room when family comes to visit. But you’re not being rude you’re being protective of those you care about.”
While most adults will recover from the H1N1 virus without complications, there are signs which indicate you should seek medical attention right away. These include difficulty breathing having purple or blue discoloration of the lips vomiting and being unable to keep any liquids down feeling dizzy when standing or being unable to urinate.
A statewide toll-free hotline has been established for public questions about seasonal and H1N1 influenza at (800) 447-1985. More information can also be found at www.idph.state.ia.us.
Locally, you can call Jasper County Public Health at (641) 792-5086 with questions or concerns. Visit www.skiffmed.com and click on “H1N1 flu information and resources” to learn more. |
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Nov. 12, 2009 |
Kahn, Lee resign from Skiff Board of Trustees |
In a special meeting on Thursday, Nov. 12, the Skiff Board of Trustees accepted the resignations of board members Gary Kahn and John Lee. The board intends to have Lois Vogel and Dr. Gary Richardson – the board-elect members selected by ...
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Kahn, Lee resign from Skiff Board of Trustees
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In a special meeting on Thursday, Nov. 12, the Skiff Board of Trustees accepted the resignations of board members Gary Kahn and John Lee. The board intends to have Lois Vogel and Dr. Gary Richardson – the board-elect members selected by voters during the Nov. 3 elections – fill the expired terms. The pair will be appointed during the board’s next meeting, tentatively slated for Tuesday, Nov. 17. Vogel and Richardson’s own terms will begin in January.
Kahn, who was not present for the meeting, cited his reasons for resignation in a letter presented to the board. Both he and Lee said the hospital needs to embark upon a healing process and that their stepping aside would assist in that.
Between them, Kahn and Lee have served more than 20 years.
“We want to thank them for their years of service,” said board member Debby Pence.
Following the resignations, the remaining three members voted to have Pence become board chair, with Jeff King selected as vice chair. The roles will be in place until January. |
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Nov. 6, 2009 |
Employees notified of position eliminations, hour reductions |
On Oct. 28, during their regularly scheduled meeting, the Skiff Board of Trustees acted upon recommendations from the Steering Committee to reduce the workforce. In the days since, administration at Skiff Medical Center has been at work ...
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Employees notified of position eliminations, hour reductions
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On Oct. 28, during their regularly scheduled meeting, the Skiff Board of Trustees acted upon recommendations from the Steering Committee to reduce the workforce. In the days since, administration at Skiff Medical Center has been at work implementing the changes involved.
Fifty-one employees will experience a reduction in hours worked and an additional 23 positions have been eliminated. As of Friday, Nov. 6, all employees affected have been notified of position eliminations or hour reductions. In addition, 23 existing positions have already been eliminated through attrition and will not be filled.
Interim CEO Francie Jahn acknowledged that this has been a stressful time for all involved, but that the Skiff community has truly pulled together. “I appreciate the professionalism, dedication and focus on quality of patient care that has continued throughout this process.”
In a recent statement, the Board of Trustees offered clarification on the situation at hand:
“Skiff Medical Center, like so many hospitals around the country, is experiencing significant financial difficulties. The outlook for health-care reform and sagging national economy is putting an unprecedented burden on hospital budgets.”
The recommendations from the Steering Committee, the statements goes on to explain, come following a five-year trend in declining patient volumes, revenues and operating margins.
While this is the first time a reduction in force has occurred at Skiff, the Board acknowledges that it is a common response to financial crises being faced by hospitals, both in Iowa and nationwide.
“The Steering Committee,” the statement reads, “was diligent in the analysis of labor resources requirements to assure that service to patients was not compromised in any way and that inpatient-nurse-to-patient ratios continue at higher levels than the national averages. All current services to the community are being maintained, including the outlying clinics.”
Of the 23 positions eliminated at Skiff in the last week, only 10 were direct patient-care providers.
“While this was a difficult decision for the Board,” their statement concludes, “our mission is to provide quality, compassionate care to the community We owe it to the community to run the hospital effectively and prudently to remain strong and independent in order to meet the health-care needs of those we serve now and into the future.”
With the reduction in force complete, Jahn says the hospital is now looking ahead.
“Our next step,” she said, “is to begin putting systems and processes in place to move our organization forward.” |
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Nov. 5, 2009 |
H1N1 hotline launched |
Skiff Medical Center has launched an informational hotline – 792-H1N1 (or 792-4161) – to share the latest information about H1N1 in our area.
The 24-hour hotline contains a recorded message with recent developments about the H ...
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H1N1 hotline launched
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Skiff Medical Center has launched an informational hotline – 792-H1N1 (or 792-4161) – to share the latest information about H1N1 in our area.
The 24-hour hotline contains a recorded message with recent developments about the H1N1 outbreak in Jasper County. Callers will learn about any visitor restrictions at the hospital, the availability of H1N1 vaccine, and information on when to seek medical treatment for the flu.
They will also hear instructions on how to get more information from the Iowa Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control.
“All this information is on the Skiff Web site, but not everyone has access to the internet,” said Public Health Director Jennifer Jordan. “We want everyone to be able to pick up the phone and hear the most important information.”
Out-of-town callers may avoid long-distance charges by dialing Skiff’s toll-free number (888) 792-1273, and asking the operator to to transfer them to the H1N1 hotline. Up to eight callers at one time can listen to the recorded message. |
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Oct. 30, 2009 |
Skiff limits under-18 visitors to keep H1N1 from spreading |
To protect patients from the H1N1 influenza virus, Skiff Medical Center is asking that parents not bring children to the hospital unless they are seeking medical treatment or testing for the children.
“We’re working very hard ...
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Skiff limits under-18 visitors to keep H1N1 from spreading
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To protect patients from the H1N1 influenza virus, Skiff Medical Center is asking that parents not bring children to the hospital unless they are seeking medical treatment or testing for the children.
“We’re working very hard to stop the spread of the H1N1 virus,” said Jennifer Jordan, RN, Director of Skiff Home Care and Jasper County Public Health Nursing Service. “One way hospitals are doing this is to restrict visitors under the age of 18, unless the child is coming to receive care themselves.”
There are two exceptions: Children will be allowed to visit Hospice patients, and under-18 siblings of newborns will be allowed to visit the obstetrics unit after being screened for flu-like symptoms.
“We certainly don’t want to discourage anyone from coming to the hospital for medical care,” Jordan said. “But we know that hundreds of children in our county have been exposed to the H1N1 virus, and we want to keep the virus from spreading to our patients. Plus, it will protect healthy children from exposure to patients who may have the flu.”
Pregnant women, new mothers, newborn babies, young children, and those with chronic health conditions are among the most likely to suffer severe illness from the H1N1 virus, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. |
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Oct. 10, 2009 |
Newton Clinic welcomes nurse practitioner |
Newton Clinic is expanding to 16 health-care providers, with the addition of nurse practitioner Jodi Holloway, ARNP, FNP-C.
A Newton native, Holloway has served the citizens of Jasper County for more than 20 years and was a st ...
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Newton Clinic welcomes nurse practitioner
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Newton Clinic is expanding to 16 health-care providers, with the addition of nurse practitioner Jodi Holloway, ARNP, FNP-C.
A Newton native, Holloway has served the citizens of Jasper County for more than 20 years and was a staff nurse at Skiff Medical Center since 1992. Her areas of experience, in addition to family medicine, have included emergency medicine, home care and hospice.
Upon receiving her masters of science in nursing from Clarkson College, Omaha, Neb., in 2008, Holloway began work as a nurse practitioner with Colfax Health Services. She will continue her role in Colfax part-time to ensure continuity of care with her existing patients, but is eager to get underway at the clinic.
“I am looking forward to beginning my practice in my home town, caring for those in my community,” Holloway said. “Newton Clinic is a fixture here, with a long-reaching history and an incredibly skilled group of physicians and health-care providers. I’m delighted to become a part of that.”
“Jodi completed her family nurse practitioner training under Newton Clinic physician Dr. Orville Bunker,” said clinic administrator Mark Thayer, “so confidence in her skill set is already established. We are excited and proud to welcome her as a provider within our clinic.”
Holloway will work 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Fridays. She is accepting all new patients, including children. |
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Aug. 31, 2009 |
Hospice of Jasper County sponsors teen grief support group |
A teen’s life is filled with studies, jobs, household chores, family, and friends. When a family member or friend dies, it changes their lives. Discovering that there are other teens struggling with similar issues can help them begin to ...
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Hospice of Jasper County sponsors teen grief support group
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A teen’s life is filled with studies, jobs, household chores, family, and friends. When a family member or friend dies, it changes their lives. Discovering that there are other teens struggling with similar issues can help them begin to cope with these changes.
Realizing this, Hospice of Jasper County is pleased to offer a grief support program for teens, Grief Integration for Teens (GIfT). The program is for teens (grades 7-12) who have experienced the death of a loved one. A new session will be starting in September. Each session consists of eight support group meetings that will meet weekly after school from 4-5:30 p.m. GIFT support group sessions are informational, provide teens an opportunity to ask questions, encourage discussion, and provide a way for teens to find meaning in the midst of loss. This program is provided as a free community service by Hospice of Jasper County.
To register or learn more, call Jennifer Barnett, Hospice Bereavement Services Coordinator, at (641) 787-3074. |
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July 21, 2009 |
OT service line reopens as McMillin join PM&R |
Amanda McMillin, Skiff’s new occupational therapist, knows she looks young.
“One patient asked me when I was going to graduate high school,” she said, smiling.
And while high school was several years ago, that was w ...
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OT service line reopens as McMillin join PM&R
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Amanda McMillin, Skiff’s new occupational therapist, knows she looks young.
“One patient asked me when I was going to graduate high school,” she said, smiling.
And while high school was several years ago, that was when McMillin decided OT was the career path for her.
“As a senior, I did some job shadowing in the field,” she said, “and it grabbed my interest. I liked the idea of doing daily activities with patients.”
In her first position, with a long-term care facility, she was able to see firsthand what a difference her services made.
“I’ve had patients say, ‘I couldn’t have gotten better without you.’”
McMillin received her psychology degree at Cornell College in Mount Vernon and her masters of science in occupational therapy at the University of South Dakota.
She learned about the opening at Skiff through online job postings.
Brett Altman, Director of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, said he couldn’t be happier to have her on board.
“Occupational therapists are currently very scarce in central Iowa, with nearly every hospital currently trying to recruit them,” he said.
Such recruiting challenges, in fact, led Skiff to discontinue OT services for about nine months.
“Being able to reestablish our occupational therapy service line is essential to allowing Skiff the ability to provide comprehensive rehabilitation services to meet the needs of our patients, physicians and community,” he said. “We are absolutely ecstatic to have Amanda join our talented rehab staff.”
McMillin, who started working on Monday, will focus on acute care (inpatient) and homecare, with occasional outpatient pediatrics and adult neurological patients.
“We’re starting out slow,” she said, “but things will get busy.”
Altman agreed. “As our sole OT, we realize Amanda will be in high demand and short supply until we can grow and expand our OT staff.”
McMillin is already working closely with the physical therapists and other PM&R staff.
“People have been so friendly and accommodating,” she said. “I’m looking forward to getting to know everyone.”
McMillin, an Ottumwa native, currently lives in Ankeny. Her husband, Brian, works in Des Moines in the information technology field.
She enjoys reading, scrapbooking, taking roadtrips with her husband and spending time with family and friends.
While she hopes to eventually settle somewhere closer, for now she’s making the most of her daily commute.
Her confession: “I sing in my car!” |
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July 21, 2009 |
Cupples, Swihart make best of bad times |
When tragedy strikes, day or night, a pair of Skiff employees get the call.
Sandy Cupples and Deb Swihart, nursing supervisors and Emergency Department nurses, are deputy medical investigators for Jasper County. They report ...
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Cupples, Swihart make best of bad times
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When tragedy strikes, day or night, a pair of Skiff employees get the call.
Sandy Cupples and Deb Swihart, nursing supervisors and Emergency Department nurses, are deputy medical investigators for Jasper County. They report to Dr. Gautam Kakade, the county’s medical examiner following the 42-year service of Dr. Fred Carpenter.
“When someone dies at home or under unusual circumstances, they contact us,” Cupples said.
“We determine cause of death,” Swihart said, “and whether they need to be autopsied.” Although both women have dealt with death in the ER, going to the place where it occurs is a different experience.
“The ER is our comfort zone,” Cupples said. “At the scene, you don’t necessarily know what you’re going to find.”
“It can be really hard,” Swihart agreed. “I’m going to where their family is, where their belongings are.”
On the other hand, the pressure of emergency isn’t present.
“At the hospital, our goal is to help them and treat them,” Swihart said. “At the scene, they’re already gone.”
Cupples and Swihart started down the path to death investigation by earning their forensic nursing certificates from Kaplan College. This training – in addition to qualifying them to treat survivors of assault and violent crimes – prepares them to work at the site of crimes and accidents. They learned to make positive identifications, examine bodies for injury, collect evidence, take tissue and blood samples and coordinate with law enforcement officials.
“We work closely with the police,” Swihart said. “They get there first, so they let us know what we’re going out on. The officers are very good about making sure the scene is safe for us. We’ve had such a good rapport with them.”
As medical examiner, Dr. Kakade has served as a mentor for Cupples and Swihart, taking them on ride-alongs during their initial training.
“Dr. Kakade is really good with our questions,” Cupples said.
Perhaps the strongest relationship to come out of their roles is the one they share with each other.
“Sandy and I work really well together,” Swihart said. “When one of us is notified about a body, we usually call the other one and go together.”
Also, since the nature of their investigations is highly private, the women aren’t free to discuss what they witness during an investigation. So talking to each other and sharing their feelings is an important outlet.
“On my first week, I went out on a suicide, a two-person car wreck and a gunshot victim,” Cupples said. “It’s good to have someone you can discuss such intense experiences with.”
“We’re in a position to witness the whole spectrum of life,” Swihart said. “We see everything from the delivery of a baby in the ER to a person’s passing. And now we’re there to play a role after they’re gone. It’s a unique duty and we’re glad to be the ones to carry it out.” |
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July 21, 2009 |
Dr. Witte returning to clinic |
Pulmonologist Michael C. Witte, D.O., will resume practicing with the Skiff Specialty Clinic on Wednesday, Sept. 9.
Dr. Witte was born in Muscatine. His wife, Linda, grew up in Oskaloosa. He attended the University of Iowa in ...
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Dr. Witte returning to clinic
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Pulmonologist Michael C. Witte, D.O., will resume practicing with the Skiff Specialty Clinic on Wednesday, Sept. 9.
Dr. Witte was born in Muscatine. His wife, Linda, grew up in Oskaloosa. He attended the University of Iowa in Iowa City as an undergraduate and the University of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery in Des Moines, graduating in 1977. His training in internal medicine and pulmonary and critical care was obtained at Fitzsimmons Army Medical Center in Denver, Colo.
He is board-certified in internal, pulmonary and critical care medicine. After completing his army duty in 1987, Dr. Witte joined Chest, Infectious Diseases and Critical Care Associates, P.C. in Des Moines.
His interests are critical care medicine and critical care telemedicine. |
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July 7, 2009 |
Skiff Cardiac Rehab earns recertification |
Congratulations to Nancy Steingreaber, RN, and Connie Kaldenberg, RN, who recently learned that their Cardiac Rehabilitation department has earned a three-year recertification from the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary ...
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Skiff Cardiac Rehab earns recertification
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| Congratulations to Nancy Steingreaber, RN, and Connie Kaldenberg, RN, who recently learned that their Cardiac Rehabilitation department has earned a three-year recertification from the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR). More than 1,400 cardiac rehab services in the U.S. are certified through AACVPR. The mission of the association is to reduce morbidity, mortality, and disability from cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases through education, prevention, rehabilitation, research, and disease management. |
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July 7, 2009 |
He likes bikes: IT director makes his way on two wheels |
If allowed only one word to describe his bicycling, IT Director Brad Patty immediately selects “obsessed.” Take a look at the numbers and you’ll see that’s not far off: Since he started keeping track, Brad has put in about 50,000 miles o ...
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He likes bikes: IT director makes his way on two wheels
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If allowed only one word to describe his bicycling, IT Director Brad Patty immediately selects “obsessed.” Take a look at the numbers and you’ll see that’s not far off: Since he started keeping track, Brad has put in about 50,000 miles on his road bike. That’s equivalent to biking coast to coast nearly 17 times ... or around the globe twice.
His accomplishments don’t stop there. He has an additional 1,336 hours of mountain biking under his belt.
“I was turning wheels on each bike before I started logging mileage and hours,” Patty said, “so each total is understated.”
Patty can point to the specific time when bicycling went from just something to do to a way of life.
“During RAGBRAI III, they overnighted in Newton,” he said. “I hadn’t really planned in advance to participate, but I thought it looked like fun. So I biked the rest of the ride, literally in my blue jeans.”
With a grin, he added, “I was much geekier then.”
Ever since, biking has played an increasingly large role in his life. Patty biked at least part of the next 10 RAGBRAIs and worked in a bicycle shop during summers to pay his way through college.
“I was a high school athlete, doing football, wrestling and track,” he said. “There are so many issues with health that can be solved with exercise.”
Bicycling has remained a passion, in part because Patty continually challenges himself.
“If you’re trying to reach a goal, it adds purpose to the training and keeps it interesting,” he said.
His goals have varied from reaching a certain annual mileage (last year he achieved 4,000) to participating in a wide range of races. He’s made it to the “expert” level in mountain bike races done the cycling leg of a team triathlon participated in ultra endurance races, in which a team of four races for 24 hours and taken part in adventure races, which can feature not only biking, but running, canoeing and rock climbing.
Physical therapist and fellow athlete Matt Scotton rides with Patty several times each week and has joined him on team races.
“He has an awesome attitude and a true passion for cycling and fitness,” Scotton said.
Patty’s dedication is so strong that even a broken neck didn’t stop him.
On Oct. 31, 2000, Patty was doing a night ride in the woods. While turning to check on his riding partner, he inadvertently rode off the trail and into a culvert.
He landed on his head, breaking his helmet.
“I felt okay if I held still,” he said. “But if I moved, I had pain.”
Patty was brought in by ambulance. After a diagnosis of a fractured C7 vertebrae, he underwent surgery and had to wear a halo brace to keep his neck immobilized for nearly two months.
But immobilization didn’t mean he could tolerate being still. So, with the doctor’s permission, he rode indoors, with his bike attached to a stationary trainer.
“I was like a gerbil in a gerbil wheel,” he said.
Although Patty strives for self-improvement through cycling, he also uses it as a platform to help others.
He is a volunteer instructor at the YMCA, where he leads a 45-minute spinning class every Monday, year-round. From November through March, he adds two classes offered back to back on Saturday mornings, making it possible for participants to cycle for up to an hour and a half.
“Brad is a very compassionate and generous man,” Scotton said. “He regularly repairs bikes and tires for people around town who need their bikes for transportation. Brad is a great ambassador for biking, fitness, compassion, neighboring, and what is best about Skiff and Newton.” |
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July 7, 2009 |
An update from Trustees, Interim CEO |
Skiff Medical Center’s Board of Trustees met Tuesday, June 30 in closed session to continue their discussions of the operational assessment conducted by B.E. Smith and Associates. The assessment identifies areas for process improvement. ...
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An update from Trustees, Interim CEO
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Skiff Medical Center’s Board of Trustees met Tuesday, June 30 in closed session to continue their discussions of the operational assessment conducted by B.E. Smith and Associates. The assessment identifies areas for process improvement. The report was judged to be thorough, useful and of excellent quality. The report contained a number of recommendations focused on finances, staffing and organizational design. Gary Kahn, Board Chair, stated, “It is apparent that Skiff is facing a financial crisis and changes need to be made. Many hospitals in Iowa and across the nation are experiencing tough economic times, and Skiff is no different. The Board believes in the people and talent of this institution. The Board of Trustees has begun to take the necessary steps to reverse the financial decline that threatens the future of this hospital.”
Some of the recommendations have already been adopted and Kahn is confident the organization is moving forward. “We have made progress with the help of our interim leaders and the efforts of many of our staff,” Kahn said. The Board has established a Finance Committee that works closely with the interim CEO and CFO. Other changes are being made in billing and collections processes, reduction in the use of agency staffing, initiating hospital charge master review, reviewing contracts and re-negotiating contracts for payments from insurance companies.
Restructuring of the organization is necessary and will include changes in some job descriptions, elimination of selected management roles, and limited staffing cuts. Skiff will make every effort to re-assign qualified staff. It is too early in the process to know how many positions will be eliminated and some may be absorbed through attrition. Skiff will continue to look to cut other expenses.
A priority is the selection of a new CEO and the Board is soliciting proposals from executive search firms. The goal is to have a CEO in place no later than Jan. 1, 2010. During the time the search is conducted, interim CEO, Francie Jahn, will continue to work with staff and consultants in making needed changes. “It is imperative that our focus remains on making Skiff a financially strong organization and ensure that it remains a key asset to the communities we serve”, said Jahn. “We have some very difficult times ahead but we are committed to supporting our mission of providing compassionate, personalized patient care.”
The Board will provide periodic progress reports as the process continues, and Jahn will update employees as changes occur. |
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June 24, 2009 |
Skiff dietitian clowns around for a cause |
When Peg Ehler calls herself a clown, she isn’t speaking metaphorically.
By day, she works at Skiff Medical Center, where she has been a dietitian for 20 years. But when she puts on a sparkly blue nose, fingerless green gloves ...
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Skiff dietitian clowns around for a cause
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When Peg Ehler calls herself a clown, she isn’t speaking metaphorically.
By day, she works at Skiff Medical Center, where she has been a dietitian for 20 years. But when she puts on a sparkly blue nose, fingerless green gloves and a miniature flowered hat, she becomes “Glory,” a clown with a mission.
“My goal is to put a smile on people’s faces,” she said. “And not to scare them.”
Her unusual pastime began due to another of her unique characteristics: Ehler is deaf. Three of her four siblings are hearing impaired as well, and her sister dabbled in “clowning” in the mid-90s.
“It was a way to communicate without having to hear,” Ehler said. “After about a year, she decided to stop doing it, so I took up where she left off.”
Ehler’s first alter ego was named “Daisy” and featured a huge red wig and full “white face” makeup. The latter had disadvantages, including an hour-long prep time and a tendency to frighten children. Now, as Glory, she works with clowning partner Mary Wright – whose identity as “Be” completes the “Glory Be!” duo.
The pair don their costume about two to five times a month to entertain at nursing homes, holiday parties, parades and more. Their act includes skits, magic tricks, balloon animals, face painting and bubbles.
Her colleagues say that Ehler’s hobby is a perfect fit.
“Peg is certainly fun to be around,” said nutrition director Deb Nilles. “She brings enthusiasm to the department that keeps everyone energized.”
“She loves to make people laugh and loves to do tricks, tell jokes and play games,” said dietitian Joan Munoz.
“Even when she is not in clown attire and is just ‘being Peg,’ she is awesome to be around,” said Ann Hansen, RN, CDE, “because she can make you smile when no one else can.”
“She’s such a fun person,” agreed dietitian Jenny Thompson. “I feel fortunate to know her.”
Although she’s never enrolled in a true clown college, Ehler has attended various clown conferences. She belonged to a now-defunct Newton clowning club called Clownin’ Around and is currently a member of Korn Patch Klowns out of Des Moines. In 2005, she became an ordained Christian clown.
“Why not smile with a message?” Ehler asked.
The next step she would love to take is merging her hobby with her job.
“I’d love to see humor therapy available at Skiff,” she said, citing the health benefits of humor. “As they say, laughter is the best medicine.” |
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June 24, 2009 |
Employees adopt flower beds to beautify hospital campus |
Skiff Medical Center employees are showing their pride in the hospital’s appearance by “adopting” flower beds around the campus this spring.
Previously, Skiff had contracted with a local nursery to do the weeding, trimming and ...
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Employees adopt flower beds to beautify hospital campus
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Skiff Medical Center employees are showing their pride in the hospital’s appearance by “adopting” flower beds around the campus this spring.
Previously, Skiff had contracted with a local nursery to do the weeding, trimming and tending of more than 30 flower beds. This year, small groups of hospital employees have volunteered to share these tasks.
“It’s really been a big help,” said Facilities Management Director John Bartello. “The flower beds look great, and we’ll be able to save around $10,000 because of the volunteer effort.”
Facilities Management supplies the mulch for each bed, and provides any equipment needed. Employees can do their tending on breaks, or during offwork times.
Most departments adopted flower beds that they can see from their work areas, or as they enter the hospital.
In the near future, small signs will be posted by each bed to acknowledge those who are volunteering their time to maintain the appearance of Skiff’s campus. |
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June 24, 2009 |
A note of thanks from a grateful patient |
It is not often we get to experience the hospital from the inside out and, not only that, a great variety of services as well in a matter of a few weeks. I had no intention of doing so when I was admitted to Skiff Medical Center on an em ...
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A note of thanks from a grateful patient
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It is not often we get to experience the hospital from the inside out and, not only that, a great variety of services as well in a matter of a few weeks. I had no intention of doing so when I was admitted to Skiff Medical Center on an emergency basis the night before Tulip Time.
My wife (Dr. Ruth Spierenburg) and I were on our way home, intending to spend the evening making some last minute touch-ups to our home and yard prior to my son and his new wife's visit the next day, when I began to feel nauseous and dizzy and broke out in a cold sweat. My wife quickly asked me to pull over alongside the road and to stop driving. I moved to the back seat of our van and she turned the van around and drove back to Newton and Skiff.
We thought I was having a heart attack and had learned from our involvement in the ministry and medicine for many years, if you're going to have a heart attack, the best place to have it is in a hospital's emergency room. So there I was on a stretcher in the ER. For the next 24 hours and various days thereafter, I went through a series of tests and that brought me into many areas of the hospital I have never been to before. Everywhere I went I received the same courteous and professional service from the hospital staff and others who work alongside the hospital staff as well. That's why I'm writing this letter.
I found the care provided by everyone to be very polite and compassionate as well as professional. That includes people working at the front desk, the lab, the ER, the floor, the outpatient surgery suites, the Radiology department and the offices of Drs. Richardson, Fudge and Kakade. We are fortunate to have such a top-quality facility with such a top-quality staff to attend our medical concerns.
I especially appreciated the little touches, like a warm blanket for my legs both the night I spent at the hospital and when I was an outpatient. The gowns, one tied in the front and a second around the back. The care with which the necessary needles were inserted -- even using a smaller needle to numb the area just prior to the insertion of the second larger one. The small talk which helped calm me and made the whole experience more humane. The way people looked me in the eye and acknowledged me.
I know some of these things seem small and unimportant when you consider the larger scope of events that were happening at the same time, but to me they mattered a great deal. And I know there are many other patients who would say the same things that I wish to say now: Good job! God bless all of you!
Much thanks and love to you all. May your wonderful deeds be known widely by all – we have a staff that cares, a hospital that can handle our sometimes very complex needs, and patients that really appreciate you.
Sincerely,
Marinus P. Spierenburg |
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May 26, 2009 |
Two physicians announce resignation |
Two members of Skiff Medical Center’s active medical staff have announced their resignations. General surgeon Greg Stanislav, MD, will be leaving for family reasons on July 17. Orthopedic surgeon Frank Butera, DO, will be leaving on Sept ...
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Two physicians announce resignation
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Two members of Skiff Medical Center’s active medical staff have announced their resignations. General surgeon Greg Stanislav, MD, will be leaving for family reasons on July 17. Orthopedic surgeon Frank Butera, DO, will be leaving on Sept. 21.
Interim CEO Francie Jahn said that the hospital administration, Board of Trustees and medical staff will work together to develop a plan for physician recruitment in these areas. |
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May 26, 2009 |
Skiff Auxiliary announces 2009 scholarship winners |
The Skiff Medical Center Auxiliary has announced the 13 winners of the 2009 Auxiliary Scholarships, totalling $10,000. The scholarships, for students pursuing higher education in health-related fields, are awarded on the basis of financi ...
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Skiff Auxiliary announces 2009 scholarship winners
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The Skiff Medical Center Auxiliary has announced the 13 winners of the 2009 Auxiliary Scholarships, totalling $10,000. The scholarships, for students pursuing higher education in health-related fields, are awarded on the basis of financial need, academic and professional achievement, and other factors.
The scholarship recipients are:
Nursing scholarships
• Katelyn Kiehl – $1,000 (in honor of Sterling and Maxine Swanger)
• Katie Sparks – $1,000 (in honor of Lydia E. Swihart)
• C. J. Fitzgerald – $500 (in honor of Janet and Joyce Slycord)
• Lucas Groeneveld – $500 (in honor of Lois Vogel)
Health-related scholarships
• Shelby Bird – $1,000
• Matthew Coen – $1,000
• Ashley Illingworth – $1,000
• Alyssa Hageman – $750
• Lori Peters – $750
• Gretchen Roth – $750
• Eva Opfer – $750
• Hilary Van Soelen – $500 (in honor of Ronald Ross)
• Brian Ruggle – $500 (in honor of Geneva Trost) |
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May 26, 2009 |
Running no struggle for Dr. Ruggle |
The Newton Clinic physician participated in the prestigious event on Monday, April 20 and considers it “the height of my athletic accomplishments.”
Not just anyone can take part in the Boston Marathon. A person must receive a ...
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Running no struggle for Dr. Ruggle
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The Newton Clinic physician participated in the prestigious event on Monday, April 20 and considers it “the height of my athletic accomplishments.”
Not just anyone can take part in the Boston Marathon. A person must receive a qualifying time in a separate marathon.
Dr. Ruggle qualified during the 2007 Marine Corps Marathon, when he crossed the finish line at 3 hours, 29 minutes. The journey was not merely one of 26.2 miles, but also several years.
“I run one marathon a year and had to try eight times to qualify for the Boston,” Dr. Ruggle said, smiling. “So it took me eight years.”
Dr. Ruggle’s Massachusetts run started right here in Newton – on a tennis court, specifically. He played regularly with friend and fellow physician Dr. Ronald Charles, and found that he almost always got beaten in the third set.
“I was able to do this because of my running,” Dr. Charles said. “So he decided to take it up. And that was the end of tennis, because he became as addicted to running as I was!”
“I got hooked,” Dr. Ruggle agreed. “Now I can’t do without it.”
He usually runs six out of every seven days, sometimes more than once a day. He enjoys running with others, particularly his colleagues Dr. Charles and Dr. Pat Edwards.
“The great thing about running is you make some very good friends,” Dr. Charles said. “It’s a bond that binds people, just like the three of us.”
Dr. Ruggle finds running not only benefits his health – “I can eat anything I want now” – but his patients’ health, too.
“I’m setting a good example for the people who come to see me.”
That is not to say that running comes without occasional hardships, including tendonitis and lost toenails. During the Boston Marathon, his back was the casualty.
“A muscle spasm started when I was on Heartbreak Hill,” he said, referring to an infamous ascent that occurs late in the race. “So I guess for me it was Backbreak Hill.”
The pain stayed with him throughout the remainder of the run, causing him to run “crooked” and occasionally even veer toward the crowd. But the spectators were supportive and cheered him on to a final time of 4:06:33.
While the score does not automatically qualify him to run in next year’s event – fewer than 20 percent of participants manage that – he doesn’t necessarily consider it his last Beantown run.
“I’m so glad I did it,” he said. “And I see where I could do it better next time.”
In the meanwhile, he continues averaging about 33 miles a week and encouraging anyone who’s interested to take up the sport. After all, he said, running doesn’t have to be daunting.
“It’s just going faster than walking.” |
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May 12, 2009 |
Dr. Althoff bids farewell |
Family practice physician Jennifer Althoff, M.D., has announced that she is suspending her medical practice in order to spend more time with her family. She and her husband, Nick, and their 1-year-old son plan to stay in Newton.
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Dr. Althoff bids farewell
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Family practice physician Jennifer Althoff, M.D., has announced that she is suspending her medical practice in order to spend more time with her family. She and her husband, Nick, and their 1-year-old son plan to stay in Newton.
Her last day with Newton Clinic will be May 29. Skiff Medical Center wishes her the best! |
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May 12, 2009 |
Bone densitometer offers diagnosis in fraction of time |
Skiff’s new bone densitometry system is making a minute’s work of what was once a 40-minute examination. The hospital’s new Hologic Discovery bone densitometer uses low-dose X-ray technology to detect signs and symptoms of osteoporosis, ...
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Bone densitometer offers diagnosis in fraction of time
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Skiff’s new bone densitometry system is making a minute’s work of what was once a 40-minute examination. The hospital’s new Hologic Discovery bone densitometer uses low-dose X-ray technology to detect signs and symptoms of osteoporosis, a disease which causes the thinning of bones.
“The new scanner takes about 60 seconds to do an entire exam,” said Radiology Director Jane Hettinger. “The scanner that it replaced needed 40 minutes to do the same thing.”
The new bone densitometry system diagnoses osteoporosis in three ways. First, it measures the physical density of the patient’s spine, hip and arm bones. Second, it analyzes the physical structure of the hip bones, revealing information about the mechanical strength of the hip. Finally, it produces high-definition digital images that help physicians detect tiny fractures in the vertebrae of the patient’s spine. These fractures pose a serious risk for future, more debilitating fractures.
“It’s an excellent diagnostic exam,” said Skiff radiologist Paul Groben, D.O., who interprets the images and data from the device. The digital images are stored electronically in the radiology department’s PACS system, where they can be instantly retrieved when needed.
Four of the department’s staff members – Kate Carpenter, RTR, Jeff Lemley, RTRM, Gail Terlouw, RTRM, and PACS administrator Melody Wright – have been trained to conduct the exam. Three others – Annette Sheets, RTRM, Amanda Goode, RTR, and Tina VandeKamp, RTR – will be trained in the near future.
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April 29, 2009 |
New weekend hours in cafeteria |
The Nutrition Services Department will begin their new weekend cafeteria hours on Saturday and Sunday, May 9 and 10. This will be the first weekend the cafeteria will be closed at 2:30 p.m. After that time, all visitors and employees wil ...
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New weekend hours in cafeteria
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The Nutrition Services Department will begin their new weekend cafeteria hours on Saturday and Sunday, May 9 and 10. This will be the first weekend the cafeteria will be closed at 2:30 p.m. After that time, all visitors and employees will be directed to the Auxiliary Snack Bar, where evening meals can be purchased from the vending machines. Free coffee will also be available in the Snack Bar after the cafeteria closes.
The kitchen will be stocking the vending machine as often as necessary on weekends to keep food fresh and available for employees and visitors.
The kitchen will remain open for patients until 7:30 p.m. |
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April 29, 2009 |
'A Table Affair' raises money for Skiff IV pumps |
Thanks to everyone who made the Skiff Auxiliary’s Chair-ries Jubilee 2009 – "A Table Affair" a success.
Nearly 100 people attended the April 18 event at the Newton Country Club. Volunteer hosts decorated each table and served ...
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'A Table Affair' raises money for Skiff IV pumps
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Thanks to everyone who made the Skiff Auxiliary’s Chair-ries Jubilee 2009 – "A Table Affair" a success.
Nearly 100 people attended the April 18 event at the Newton Country Club. Volunteer hosts decorated each table and served a catered meal to their guests. Entertainment was provided by "This Old Guitar."
By evening's end, more than $6,000 had been donated to the Skiff Auxiliary. The money will help purchase new IV pumps for chemotherapy patients in the Skiff Specialty Clinic. |
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April 21, 2009 |
New system keeps doctors, nurses in closer touch with labor patients |
With the help of a new state-of-the-art fetal monitoring system, Newton Clinic physicians can keep close watch over their patients’ labor progress, whether the physicians are in Skiff Medical Center’s obstetrics unit, seeing patients at ...
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New system keeps doctors, nurses in closer touch with labor patients
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With the help of a new state-of-the-art fetal monitoring system, Newton Clinic physicians can keep close watch over their patients’ labor progress, whether the physicians are in Skiff Medical Center’s obstetrics unit, seeing patients at the clinic, or even at home.
Skiff began using its new GE Centricity Fetal Monitoring System on March 31. The system transmits real-time information about the health of the baby and mom to remote computer monitors located in OB and the Newton Clinic.
Physicians who are not in the hospital or clinic may monitor their patients from any PC with access to Skiff’s secure Web server.
“As a doctor you want to be there with the patient as much as possible, but that’s not always practical,” said Dr. Paul Nieves, OB/GYN specialist at the Newton Clinic. “Now if I have a patient who’s in labor I can monitor her 24-7, whether I’m in the office, the hospital or at home. It’s a big step for Skiff and for our OB patients.”
The fetal monitoring system keeps track of the baby’s heart rate, the mom’s blood pressure and the strength and and frequency of the mom’s contractions. A paper “strip” containing this information is printed continuously in the patient’s room. The same information is sent electronically to the remote monitors.
Skiff OB nurses say the new monitoring system helps them watch over their patients and communicate more clearly with their doctors.
“As nurses, we’re the eyes of the physician, watching over mom and baby to make sure that everything’s going as it should be,” said Brenda Smith, RN, OB Nursing Director. “Now we have one more set of eyes to help us. When something is happening with the mom that we want the doctor to make a decision about, we can call the doctor and they can look at their monitor and see the same information we’re seeing. The doctor can make the decision and we can intervene much quicker because we didn’t have to wait for the doctor to physically get here to look at a paper strip.”
Another benefit is that, within a few weeks, the system will allow information about the mom’s medical history to be shared electronically between the Newton Clinic and the Skiff OB staff.
“As the pregnancy progresses, the Newton Clinic doctors and nurses are continuously entering medical information into the system,” said Smith. “When it’s time for mom to come to Skiff to deliver the baby, all that information will already be in the system. We’ll be able to access her medical history and understand exactly what’s been happening with her pregnancy to that point.”
Dr. Tereasa VanZee said the fetal monitoring system gives her peace of mind about her labor patients in OB because no matter how busy she is at the Newton Clinic, she can keep close tabs on their progress during labor. “It’s nice to be able to see at a glance how they’re doing throughout the day as I’m seeing patients at the clinic,” she said.
Although the new technology is a useful tool, Skiff nurses and physicians know that it cannot replace personal, hands-on contact with their patients. “There’s no substitute for being in the patient’s room giving one-on-one care, and we do just as much of that as we always have,” Smith said. “But during those times that we can’t be in the room, we can still keep a close eye on how mom and baby are doing.”
Smith thanked Skiff administration for providing extra OB nursing help during the switch to the new fetal monitoring system. She also thanked the I.T. and Materials Management staff for their role in setting up the system, and other Skiff departments for loaning staff to OB during the transition time.
“It’s taken a lot of teamwork to get to this point, but it’s working very well and we’re getting more comfortable with the technology each time we use it,” she said. |
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Feb. 28, 2009 |
Skiff creates nearly $32 million annually for local economy |
Skiff Medical Center generates 425 jobs that add nearly $32 million annually to the economy of Newton and Jasper County, according to the latest study by the Iowa Hospital Association. In addition, Skiff employees by themselves will spen ...
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Skiff creates nearly $32 million annually for local economy
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Skiff Medical Center generates 425 jobs that add nearly $32 million annually to the economy of Newton and Jasper County, according to the latest study by the Iowa Hospital Association. In addition, Skiff employees by themselves will spend $9,812,478 on retail sales and contribute $588,749 in state sales tax revenue this year.
“The most important thing we do is to give compassionate, personalized care for our patients,” said Francie Jahn, interim CEO at Skiff. “But it’s also important for people to know that the hospital is also a big part of the local economy.”
The total economic impact of Skiff Medical Center will be $42,377,807 in 2009, according to the IHA study which examined the jobs, income, retail sales and sales tax produced by hospitals and the rest of the state’s health-care sector.
The study was compiled from hospital-submitted data on the American Hospital Association’s Annual Survey of Hospitals and with software that other industries have used to determine their economic impact.
The study found that Iowa hospitals directly employ 72,220 people and create another 76,876 jobs outside the hospital sector. As an income source, hospitals provide $3.3 billion in salaries and benefits and generate almost another $2.4 billion through other jobs that depend on hospitals.
In all, Iowa’s health care sector, which includes employed clinicians, long-term care services and assisted living centers, pharmacies and other medical and health services, directly and indirectly provides 366,072 Iowa jobs, or more than one-fifth of the state’s total employment.
“Even in these difficult economic times, Iowa hospitals remain major employers and business partners throughout the state,” said Kirk Norris, IHA president/CEO. “In addition to providing essential health care and community services, hospitals are at the foundation of Iowa’s economic infrastructure. The state’s economic security is clearly linked to maintaining the high-quality health care system we now enjoy.” |
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Feb. 17, 2009 |
Harter, Monroe Clinic celebrate five years with Skiff |
Congratulations to both Allison Harter, PA-C, and Monroe Clinic, who marked their five-year anniversaries last month and this month, respectively.
“I started a litt ...
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Harter, Monroe Clinic celebrate five years with Skiff
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Congratulations to both Allison Harter, PA-C, and Monroe Clinic, who marked their five-year anniversaries last month and this month, respectively.
“I started a little early to get the clinic up and going,” Harter said. “It was the first satellite clinic they opened and it was an additional step in our mission to bring health care close to home.”
The clinic allows people to enjoy a combination of quality and convenience, Harter said. “The community is really happy that Skiff is able to be down here so they have an option for health care. They’ve had such good experiences with Skiff Medical Center and the care they’ve provided.”
Harter said she can’t imagine being anywhere else or doing anything else. “I’ve always loved family practice, ranging from pediatrics to geriatrics. And as for Skiff, I’ve been so impressed.”
She cites a variety of people for making the experience so rewarding, including former CEO Eric Lothe and Dr. Tammy Chance, who “allows me to shine.”
“I could never have passed up the opportunity to work for such a great organization. And now that I’m here, this is where I want to stay. I have too many people I care for and they’re all special to me.” |
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Feb. 17, 2009 |
Pearson one of 17 certified Agri-Safe providers in Iowa |
The cornfields outside family nurse practitioner Melissa Pearson’s windows at Baxter Health Services are a daily reminder that many of her patients at the clinic make their li ...
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Pearson one of 17 certified Agri-Safe providers in Iowa
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The cornfields outside family nurse practitioner Melissa Pearson’s windows at Baxter Health Services are a daily reminder that many of her patients at the clinic make their living from the land. And while farming is a labor of love for those patients, it’s also one of the most dangerous jobs in America.
“Agriculture is one of the most dangerous industries, but it’s basically up to the individual farmer to make sure he’s safe out there,” said Pearson. She is part of Agri-Safe, a network of health professionals who help educate farmers and their families about health and safety issues.
Pearson recently completed a formal Agri-Safe training program in conjunction with the University of Iowa. She is one of 17 certified Agri-Safe providers in Iowa.
It can be a tough sell to convince farmers that the way they’ve been doing things for years could be improved or made safer, according to Pearson. For example, farmers often develop skin cancer on the backs of their necks and tops of their ears after decades of exposure to the sun.
“You’re probably not going to get a farmer to stop wearing a baseball cap every day like he’s done since he was a kid,” she said. “But you might be able to get him to put some sunscreen on his neck and his ears before he goes out in the morning. That’s the kind of thing we do, at least to start.”
Another focus of Agri-Safe is teaching farmers how to protect themselves from breathing toxic substances on the job. Long term exposures to agricultural dusts and gases can lead to chronic bronchitis, an asthma-like condition, lung scarring, or emphysema. There are more than 20 different kinds of protective masks, ranging from a simple paper mask to high-tech air purifying systems.
“The mask that keeps you from breathing in moldy grain dust is completely different than the one you need on a poultry farm or a hog lot,” she said. “We can teach you which masks you need to be using, and even help you find the right masks and make sure they fit you properly.”
Other areas of emphasis include hearing loss, blood pressure testing, cholesterol screening and vision testing. If a farmer needs advice about eliminating work hazards, a trained Agri-Safe reviewer is available to visit the farm and examine machinery, livestock facilities, chemical storage areas and other areas and offer suggestions to reduce the risk of accidents.
A farmer who has been injured (on or off the job) can also learn how to modify his or her equipment so they can continue to farm.
While large farming operations are inspected by OSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Act, small operations are not. Pearson said that Agri-Safe doesn’t inspect or regulate farms, but it can help farmers make sure they are as safe as possible on the job.
“Farming is the profession they love,”she said. “We just hope to keep them safer for longer so they can keep on doing what they do.” |
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Feb. 11, 2009 |
Jahn named interim CEO at Skiff until July 1, 2009 |
The Skiff Medical Center Board of Trustees has appointed Francie Jahn, Vice President of Patient Services, as the hospital’s interim CEO until July 1, 2009.
Jahn has been serving as interim CEO and has agreed to a longer appoi ...
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Jahn named interim CEO at Skiff until July 1, 2009
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The Skiff Medical Center Board of Trustees has appointed Francie Jahn, Vice President of Patient Services, as the hospital’s interim CEO until July 1, 2009.
Jahn has been serving as interim CEO and has agreed to a longer appointment. “Francie has the confidence and support of the entire board, and she brings great experience to this position,” said John Lee, acting chair of the Skiff trustees. “We have also heard from a number of employees and physicians who have a lot of respect for Francie. We’re pleased she has agreed to serve in the interim role until July.”
The board had explored various options for filling the interim CEO position, including talking with several executive search and health-care management firms. “The decision to appoint Francie Jahn to a longer term was the preferred action, and we are hopeful we can begin to move forward and resolve the discord Skiff has been experiencing,” Lee said. “It’s important that the board, administration, staff and physicians work together in a positive way to ensure that Skiff remains a viable part of our community.”
The board has not made any decisions at this point on how to fill the CEO position on a long-term basis.
“I’m honored to be asked to serve as the interim CEO for such a wonderful community hospital,” said Jahn. “Our mission is ‘to meet community needs by providing compassionate and personalized health care services.’ I’m confident that if we all work together and provide positive support for one another through these times, what we do best will shine through to our community.” |
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Jan. 29, 2009 |
Baumgart resigns as President/CEO of Skiff Medical Center |
Kris Baumgart, President and Chief Executive Officer of Skiff Medical Center, has resigned effective Jan. 31, 2009. Baumgart, who has led the Newton hospital since September 2007, is leaving to pursue other professional opportunities.
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Baumgart resigns as President/CEO of Skiff Medical Center
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Kris Baumgart, President and Chief Executive Officer of Skiff Medical Center, has resigned effective Jan. 31, 2009. Baumgart, who has led the Newton hospital since September 2007, is leaving to pursue other professional opportunities.
The Skiff Board of Trustees has appointed Francie Jahn, Vice President of Patient Care Services, to serve as interim CEO while the board is interviewing possible longer term replacements.
John Lee, acting chair of the Skiff Board of Trustees, said the board is considering options such as bringing in a health-care management firm for a short time period so that plans can be set in place for the CEO search.
“The primary goal of the Board of Trustees is to ensure quality patient care and provide a good working environment for our Skiff staff and physicians during the transition period,” Lee said. “We want to make the best decisions for the organization and make sure that Skiff remains a strong community hospital.” |
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Jan. 29, 2009 |
Auxiliary provides a vending machine for employees, visitors |
The Nutrition Services/Wellness Department has received a generous gift from the Skiff Auxiliary: a cold food vending machine for the snack bar.
The Auxiliary recognized the need for more healthy food choices for visitors of p ...
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Auxiliary provides a vending machine for employees, visitors
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The Nutrition Services/Wellness Department has received a generous gift from the Skiff Auxiliary: a cold food vending machine for the snack bar.
The Auxiliary recognized the need for more healthy food choices for visitors of patients who may be looking for something to eat after the cafeteria closes at 6:30 p.m., according to Auxiliary president Debby Pence. She said the addition of the cold food vending machine make healthy food choices available to staff and visitors at all hours.
The new vending machine will be operated by the Nutrition Services department and stocked with homemade freshly prepared soups, salads, sandwiches and individual meal entrees, packaged in the Skiff dietary department.
The machine will accept both $1 and $5 dollar bills, as well as coins. Foods can be reheated using the Snack Bar microwave. The new vending will complement Skiff’s current meal service, providing more options available 24/7, said Nutrition Services Director Deb Nilles. The only change to cafeteria meal service will be to Saturday and Sunday supper meals.
“I see this as a way to improve the meal service we provide on weekends for evening meals,” she said. “We’ve been setting up a self-serve/self-pay meal in the cafeteria on Saturday and Sunday evenings, but it seems to be inconvenient for our employees and confusing to our guests. We will be looking into directing people to the Snack Bar vending area for a larger selection of both cold and hot foods for these meals.”
The cafeteria will remain open on weekends until 6:30 p.m. (as it is now) but meals will be purchased from the Snack Bar.
The new vending is scheduled to be available starting Monday, Feb. 9, but it will be several weeks after that before the switch is made to vending only for Saturday and Sunday supper meals.
Nilles thanked the Skiff Auxiliary for its thoughtful gift, and said she and her staff are looking forward to the new venture. |
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Jan. 3, 2009 |
Orthopaedic surgeon to return to Skiff |
Orthopaedic surgeon Ronald Charles, M.D., is returning to practice in Newton and Jasper County. Charles, who moved his practice to Clarion, Iowa, in February 2008, will return to practice full-time at Skiff Medical Center on March 2, 200 ...
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Orthopaedic surgeon to return to Skiff
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Orthopaedic surgeon Ronald Charles, M.D., is returning to practice in Newton and Jasper County. Charles, who moved his practice to Clarion, Iowa, in February 2008, will return to practice full-time at Skiff Medical Center on March 2, 2009.
“This is my home,” said Charles. “I didn’t quite realize until I left how rooted I am in this community. But this is where I belong.”
Charles practiced at Skiff Medical Center from 1989 until early 2008. He split his time between Newton and Grinnell for the first 12 years, then practiced full-time in Newton for six years.
“Dr. Charles has been an extremely important part of our medical community, and it’s wonderful to have him back,” said Skiff President and CEO Kris Baumgart.
Chief Medical Officer Tammy Chance, D.O., said Dr. Charles’ practice will complement Dr. Frank Butera’s practice, and together they will strengthen Skiff’s orthopaedic services.
Dr. Butera agreed, saying that he looks forward to working with the veteran surgeon. “I’ve heard lots of good things about Dr. Charles and it will be good to practice in the same community with him.”
Many of Charles’ Jasper County patients continued to seek his treatment even after he moved his practice to Clarion.
“It was really gratifying that so many people chose to drive two hours to stay with me,” he said. “It was one of the things that made me realize that I belong back in Newton.”
Charles was born and raised in South Africa. He received his medical degree from the University of Natal Medical School in Durban, South Africa, He completed an orthopaedic internship and residency program at King Edward VII Hospital in Durban, then a residency at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City. He is a fellow of the American College of Orthopaedic Surgeons and is certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgeons. |
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Jan. 3, 2009 |
Infection control officer appointed to board |
Infection Control’s Vicky Norrish, MT(ASCP), has been appointed to the board of directors of the Central Iowa chapter of APIC (Association for Practitioners in Infection Control).
She will serve a two-year term on the board, w ...
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Infection control officer appointed to board
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Infection Control’s Vicky Norrish, MT(ASCP), has been appointed to the board of directors of the Central Iowa chapter of APIC (Association for Practitioners in Infection Control).
She will serve a two-year term on the board, which meets 10 times a year.
Norrish has been a medical laboratory technologist since 1998. She worked in the Skiff Laboratory until two years ago, when she moved to a full-time position in Occupational Health and Infection Control.
APIC has a national membership of more than 12,000. Association members have primary responsibility for infection prevention, control and hospital epidemiology in health-care settings around the globe. APIC’s members include nurses, epidemiologists, physicians, quality and patient safety professionals, health-care executives, microbiologists, clinical pathologists, laboratory technologists, and public health practitioners. |
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Jan. 3, 2009 |
SHIIP counselors help find health insurance, drug coverage |
It’s been a long, busy season for Jerry Castonguay and the rest of Skiff Medical Center’s SHIIP volunteers. Castonguay is a counselor for SHIIP, the Senior Health Insurance Information Program. He and fellow counselors Theresa Stewart, D ...
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SHIIP counselors help find health insurance, drug coverage
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It’s been a long, busy season for Jerry Castonguay and the rest of Skiff Medical Center’s SHIIP volunteers. Castonguay is a counselor for SHIIP, the Senior Health Insurance Information Program. He and fellow counselors Theresa Stewart, Donna McCoy and Terry Townsend have provided one-on-one insurance counseling for more than 400 Jasper County residents in the last three months.
It’s normally a busy time for SHIIP counselors because Dec. 31 is the annual deadline to change your Medicare prescription drug plan. But this year they’re also helping hundreds of Maytag retirees who are dealing with health insurance issues for the first time.
Whirlpool’s decision to reduce the health insurance benefits of Maytag retirees has forced an estimated 1,600 retirees to seek additional coverage through Medicare and supplemental health insurance companies. Whirlpool’s reduced coverage for prescription drugs has sent hundreds seeking SHIIP’s advice on prescription drug plans.
“There are 48 plans that are available in Iowa right now,” said Castonguay. “If you haven’t dealt with that kind of thing in the past, it can be pretty confusing.”
The SHIIP volunteers meet individually with their clients on the third floor of Skiff. They review each client’s prescription drug regimen, and using an Internet-based Medicare program, they find the plan that provides the most affordable coverage for each client. The counseling sessions last from 30 minutes to two hours.
“It’s a lot of work, but you know it’s worth it when you can save somebody $1,000 a year by picking the right plan,” said Castonguay, who has personally counseled more than 175 clients this season.
Many days, three or four SHIIP counselors are meeting with clients in the IT training room, the copier room and any extra office that has a computer. According to Castonguay, this support from Skiff is one of the keys to SHIIP’s success.
“We’re very lucky to have a sponsor like Skiff that treats us so well,” he said. “We’ve got phones to use, computers, offices – whatever we need to help our clients.”
Skiff also hosted a series of public presentations that were well attended.
For more information about SHIIP, call (641) 791-4899 and leave a message. A volunteer will call you back and assist you. |
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Dec. 17, 2008 |
Hansen recertified as Certified Diabetes Educator |
Skiff Medical Center's Ann Hansen, RN, CDE, has renewed her status as a Certified Diabetes Educator, according to the National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators (NCBDE).
Candidates must meet rigorous eligibility ...
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Hansen recertified as Certified Diabetes Educator
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Skiff Medical Center's Ann Hansen, RN, CDE, has renewed her status as a Certified Diabetes Educator, according to the National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators (NCBDE).
Candidates must meet rigorous eligibility requirements to be eligible for certification. Health-care professionals who achieve the CDE credential have demonstrated that they have specialized knowledge and competence in teaching people with diabetes how to manage their disease.
Hansen is a registered nurse who worked first as a Licensed Practical Nurse and then returned to school and earned her nursing degree in 1963. She joined the staff of Skiff Medical Center in 1992, initially working in surgery and ICU. She then began working in education and created the hospital's first comprehensive diabetes education program for outpatients. In addition, Hansen established American Diabetes Association Certification for Skiff's Outpatient Program in 1999, allowing Skiff to begin billing insurance and receiving reimbursement for diabetes education.
In 2007, Hansen turned over directorship of the outpatient program to Jenny Thompson, RDLD, and became responsible for inpatient diabetes education at Skiff, working with patients, families and their physicians to optimize the health of diabetic inpatients.
To learn more about diabetes education at Skiff, contact Hansen at Ext. 4387. |
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Dec. 17, 2008 |
Skiff managers give toys to Salvation Army |
Dozens of toys and other Christmas gifts were donated recently to the Newton Salvation Army by managers from Skiff Medical Center. Accepting the donations was Salvation Army Captain Ron Cook, second from right. Representing the hospital ...
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Skiff managers give toys to Salvation Army
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Dozens of toys and other Christmas gifts were donated recently to the Newton Salvation Army by managers from Skiff Medical Center. Accepting the donations was Salvation Army Captain Ron Cook, second from right. Representing the hospital were, from left, Kerry Soule of Materials Management, Stacy Raines of the Business Office, Nurse Manager Jane Stevenson and Janice Balmer of Health Information Management. The Newton Salvation Army will provide Christmas gifts for more than 60 families this year, according to Capt. Cook. |
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Dec. 4, 2008 |
Upgrades made to Skiff's radiology services |
The Skiff Radiology Department has installed two new CR readers for its filmless PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication) system.
The CR readers, which convert traditional X-ray images into digital format, will replace ...
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Upgrades made to Skiff's radiology services
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The Skiff Radiology Department has installed two new CR readers for its filmless PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication) system.
The CR readers, which convert traditional X-ray images into digital format, will replace readers that were seven years old and at the end of their usable lifespan.
When Skiff radiologic technologists take X-ray images, they record the images on a digital “plate.” These plates are fed into the CR reader, which produces crystal-clear diagnostic images in a matter of seconds. The computerized images are immediately available to physicians and others who are responsible for the patient’s care.
“The new CR readers are faster and give us better images than the ones we had before,” said Radiology Director Jane Hettinger. “It means quicker and better diagnostic images for our doctors, and overall better care for our patients.” |
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Nov. 6, 2008 |
Skiff raises $25,092, passes United Way goal! |
Skiff Medical Center employees have done themselves proud once again, as they have surpassed their goal in the 2008-09 United Way Campaign! The goal of the campaign was to raise $25,000 for United Way of Jasper County. When the fin ...
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Skiff raises $25,092, passes United Way goal!
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Skiff Medical Center employees have done themselves proud once again, as they have surpassed their goal in the 2008-09 United Way Campaign! The goal of the campaign was to raise $25,000 for United Way of Jasper County. When the final tally was made, we raised $25,092, or 100.4 percent of our goal.
“I am so thankful to be part of an organization where the people, despite everything that’s happening in the local and national economy, find a way to dig deep and support the United Way,” said Bruce Hoffmeier, who co-chaired the campaign with Carolyn Sullivan. “This is an amazing bunch of people.”
Sullivan thanked everyone who took part in the campaign, whether they made a payroll deduction pledge, contributed cash, paid $5 to wear jeans, purchased jewelry, or donated or purchased items in the thrift sale.
“It takes a lot of people working together to accomplish something like this,” she said. “On behalf of all the people who will receive services from United Way agencies next year, I thank you.”
Some interesting facts about this year’s Skiff United Way campaign:
• A total of 151employees participated in the campaign
• 25 of these were first-time donors (or did not contribute last year)
• 48 percent of total donors increased pledges by 10 percent or more
• Jeans Day raised $305
• The jewelry show raised $569
• The thrift sale raised $254 |
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Oct. 14, 2008 |
Skiff provides flu shot clinics |
Flu season is around the corner, so the time has come to get your annual vaccination. Skiff Home Care and Jasper County Public Health will be offering several flu shot clinics in the area for your convenience.
Cost of the sho ...
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Skiff provides flu shot clinics
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Flu season is around the corner, so the time has come to get your annual vaccination. Skiff Home Care and Jasper County Public Health will be offering several flu shot clinics in the area for your convenience.
Cost of the shots is $27 and free if you are covered by Medicare B. We will be filing private insurance this year, excluding Blue Cross. Make sure to bring your insurance or Medicare card. Title 19 (Medicaid) does not cover flu shots. Flu shots will be offered only to adults ages 19 and older. Children’s clinics will be held separately*. A pneumonia vaccine will also be available to those 65 and older who have never before had the vaccine. Free for those covered by Medicare B.
Call (641) 792-5086 with questions.
Locations and dates of clinics:
Prairie City Community Building – 9-11 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 14
Monroe City Hall – 10 a.m.-noon, Thursday, Oct. 16
Baxter Community Center – 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Monday, Oct. 20
Colfax Senior Citizen Center – 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 21
Jasper County Community Center (old Aldi’s building) – 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 23
Newton YMCA – 9-11 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 28 (*Children's vaccinations will be available at this flu clinic)
McCann Village, Newton – 1-3 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 4 |
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Sept. 7, 2008 |
Meet Francie Jahn, Skiff’s Vice President of Patient Care |
Welcome to Francie Jahn, RN, BSN, MSHSA, Skiff’s new Vice President of Patient Care. She will succeed Steve Wilbur, who will be returning to his position as owner of a nurse staffing agency in the Des Moines area.
Jahn (pron ...
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Meet Francie Jahn, Skiff’s Vice President of Patient Care
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Welcome to Francie Jahn, RN, BSN, MSHSA, Skiff’s new Vice President of Patient Care. She will succeed Steve Wilbur, who will be returning to his position as owner of a nurse staffing agency in the Des Moines area.
Jahn (pronounced “John”) is no newcomer to nursing leadership, with more than a decade of management experience.
Originally from Clinton, Iowa, Jahn got her first health-care experience as a teenage candystriper at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Clinton. She earned an associate’s degree in nursing from Eastern Iowa Community College, a bachelor of science degree in nursing from Grandview College in Des Moines, and a master of science degree in health services administration from the University of St. Francis in Joliet, Ill.
She has direct experience in several areas of nursing, including critical care, medical/surgical, obstetrics, home care and the physician office setting.
“I started my career very young and fell in love with serving others,” she said. “It’s a passion of mine, and I truly enjoy being part of a field where we’re working together as a team to take care of other people.”
Jahn comes to Skiff from Iowa Hospice, where she has spent the last year as Vice President of Operations. Before that, she served a dozen years as Senior Vice President of Clinical Services at Broadlawns Medical Center in Des Moines.
Her desire to be closer to the clinical aspects of nursing led her to pursue the position at Skiff. “I loved what I was doing and I learned a lot, but I was at arm’s length from actual patient care most of the time,” she said. “I’m really looking forward to working more closely with nurses and managers and mentoring them so they continue to develop personally and professionally. Plus, I hope to contribute to enhancing the patient care that we give on a day-to-day basis.”
Jahn is a member of the Iowa Organization of Nursing Leaders, the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, and the American Academy of Medical Administrators.
She and her husband, Alan, live in Altoona. They have four grown daughters and 12 grandchildren. Alan is the pastor of Cornerstone Baptist Church in Altoona, and is Chaplain for the 6th judicial district (prison ministries).
In her personal life, Jahn enjoys spending time with her family, being involved with her husband’s church, reading and taking piano lessons, as well as boating and fishing with her husband. |
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Sept. 7, 2008 |
FluMist offers a breath of relief from the flu |
If you want protection from the flu – but don’t like getting a shot – the FluMist vaccine may be the solution.
“It’s a wonderful way to get protected,” said Allison Harter, PA-C, of Monroe Health Services. “It’s especially gre ...
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FluMist offers a breath of relief from the flu
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If you want protection from the flu – but don’t like getting a shot – the FluMist vaccine may be the solution.
“It’s a wonderful way to get protected,” said Allison Harter, PA-C, of Monroe Health Services. “It’s especially great for kids, because it’s so easy for them to receive. All they have to do is breathe in.”
FluMist is delivered in a gentle mist delivered into the nose, where the flu virus enters the body. Once inhaled, it helps the body develop antibodies that protect against certain strains of the flu.
Harter’s clinic has already received an ample supply of this year’s FluMist vaccine, and she is encouraging patients to get their vaccination as soon as possible. The FluMist vaccine protects against the flu for 13 months.
“I’m encouraging everyone who has kids to stop in and get them vaccinated,” Harter said. “If you’re between the ages of 2 and 49, you’re eligible for FluMist.”
Like any medication, FluMist is not for everyone. It must not be given to children under age 2, pregnant women, people with history of hypersensitivity to eggs, people with life-threatening reactions to previous influenza vaccinations, or children and adolescents receiving aspirin or aspirin containing therapy. Others who may not be able to get FluMist include people with asthma or active wheezing, children less than 5 years of age with recurrent wheezing, people with a history of Guillain-Barré syndrome, and people with other long-term medical conditions.
Andrea Lanphier, who works at Monroe Health Services, received the FluMist vaccine along with her children, ages 9 and 6. She said the experience was completely stress-free. “All you do is breathe in,” she said. “You can’t really even tell that anything has happened. I had to ask Allison if she was sure she gave it to me.”
To make an appointment for your flu vaccine, call Monroe Health Services at (641) 259-3305. Walk-ins are welcome, but an appointment is preferred.
FluMist will also be available at Baxter Health Services, Colfax Health Services, Skiff Home Care and local physician clinics. |
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July 24, 2008 |
High-tech with a small-town touch |
(This article appeared in the July/August 2008 issue of Imaging Technology News, a publication designed for medical imaging professionals.)
Skiff Medical Center is a rural hospital located 30 miles from Des Moines. The ...
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High-tech with a small-town touch
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(This article appeared in the July/August 2008 issue of Imaging Technology News, a publication designed for medical imaging professionals.)
Skiff Medical Center is a rural hospital located 30 miles from Des Moines. The hospital prides itself on offering patients the best of both worlds: the same state-of-the-art technology as large urban hospitals, but with the personal touch of a small community. In December 2007, Skiff lived up to its own reputation once again with the installation of a Hologic Selenia digital mammography system.
Several factors influenced Skiff’s decision to adopt digital mammography. First, its eight-year old screen-film equipment was in need of replacement. Then when the hospital realized it was losing mammography patients to facilities in Des Moines that already offered digital, Skiff fit digital equipment into their capital budget for 2008.
Much to the hospital's surprise, the late Jay and Virginia Kavanaugh left a half million dollars in their estate to Skiff. “We got a call one day from a lawyer telling us someone had left us money in their will,” said John Easley, Skiff's director of marketing and public relations. “We had no advance knowledge of it. It was a very nice surprise.”
While some small hospitals might argue its limited resources make it difficult to offer cutting-edge technology like digital mammography, Skiff Medical Center is proof that if something is right for the patients, there is always a way.
“We wanted digital because of the better resolution, increased contrast, and accuracy of the exam,” said Jane Hettinger, Director of Radiology, adding that it also enables the technologists to move through exams more quickly.
“Women notice the change,” she added. “They like the fact that they don’t have to go to Des Moines to get a digital exam.”
“As a radiologist, I feel more confident reading these images,” said Paul Groben, D.O. “The level of detail is amazing, particularly when imaging dense breasts. We’re definitely seeing stuff we haven’t seen before,” he said. “It was like my glasses were always a little dirty, but now they’re clear.”
When the decision was made to move forward with digital, Skiff Medical Center considered all the major digital vendors. They settled on Hologic because of its solid reputation and the relationship with their Hologic representative.
“It was really an easy decision,” said Hettinger of why they chose Hologic. “There are a lot of Hologic machines throughout Iowa and we heard great things about them. Our technologists really liked the workstation and software. Plus, we felt very comfortable with our Hologic rep – she answered all of our questions and seemed to know exactly when we needed her.”
Hologic’s role as a leader in the exploration of new imaging technology also appealed to Skiff's desire to stay cutting-edge with state-of-the-art equipment. According to Dr. Groben, Hologic’s development of breast tomosynthesis – a revolutionary way of imaging the breast in three dimensions – influenced the center’s decision to choose the Selenia.
“If tomosynthesis becomes the new standard of care, Skiff Medical Center will want to be a part of it,” Dr. Groben said.
Out with the old, in with the new
The comfort of having the latest imaging technology is not the only way mammography patients at Skiff Medical Center have benefitted from the move to digital. The hospital also hired an interior decorator to renovate its mammography suite and create a more relaxing environment for women. In a move symbolic of leaving screen-film technology behind, Skiff transformed its old film processing room into a dressing room.
Before, the dressing area for patients consisted of just a curtain in a corner of the exam room. Now they have a warm and inviting place to relax before their exam – complete with a mini fridge stocked with drinks.
“Having a mammogram can be stressful for woman,” Hettinger said. “So we did everything we could to turn this into a very restful, peaceful place with plenty of privacy.” Based on feedback from patients, it appears they were successful.
“We had one local businesswoman come in for an exam during her lunch hour who told us ‘That was almost enjoyable! I’d like to come back,’” Easley recounted.
Now the hospital is making sure every woman in Jasper County has the opportunity to experience a digital mammogram.
As part of its promotional efforts, it is holding a “Mammogram Marathon.” The “Marathon” consists of several days when the hospital offers extended evening hours, making it more convenient for working women to get a mammogram.
A personal touch
The positive comments from patients are surely validation for a small rural hospital forced to compete with larger hospitals that use state-of-the-art technology. While Skiff is proud of its ability to provide the same technology, the staff is just as proud of the personalized care they can offer as a small facility.
“It’s important for us to show that we have the same technology, but that we also have a smaller, more intimate environment. It’s high-tech and high-touch – the best of both worlds,” said Easley.
In addition to screening and diagnostic mammography, the hospital has a mobile truck for stereotactic biopsies, a full ultrasound system and performs breast surgery.
“We offer comprehensive care,” Hettinger said. “It’s convenient for women because if we find something on their mammogram, they don’t have to travel anywhere else for care.”
But the benefit of Skiff Medical Center is that patients have access to comprehensive care while enjoying the comfort and convenience of a smaller environment.
According to Hettinger, there are several advantages that separate Skiff from its larger competitors. Since they perform an average of 15 exams a day, there are no appointment backlogs that force patients to schedule exams weeks in advance.
Patients can park their cars and be in the building within five minutes, and have the ability to be in and out of the hospital in 20 minutes for an exam. In addition, the value of being cared for by a friendly face can never be underestimated.
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April 5, 2008 |
Iowa Speedway 8K road race won by Skiff physical therapist |
Skiff’s Robyn Friedman was the first of nearly 300 runners to cross the finish line in the second annual Iowa Speedway 8K Race last Saturday.
Friedman, a physical therapist, won the five-mile race in 28 minutes, 26 seconds, av ...
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Iowa Speedway 8K road race won by Skiff physical therapist
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Skiff’s Robyn Friedman was the first of nearly 300 runners to cross the finish line in the second annual Iowa Speedway 8K Race last Saturday.
Friedman, a physical therapist, won the five-mile race in 28 minutes, 26 seconds, averaging just five minutes, 43 seconds per mile. She finished more than a minute ahead of the second-place finisher (and overall male winner) Greg Skopec, 46, of Coralville.
“It was a great morning for a race, and we made the most of it,” said Skiff Public Relations Director John Easley, one of the organizers of the race. “We grew by almost 50 percent from our first race in 2007.”
Eighty-six of the 287 registered runners and walkers were from Newton, with the rest coming from 62 cities in Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska and Minnesota.
Other Skiff finishers included: Bryan Friedman (Robyn’s husband), Willie Lahart, Steve Rossler (husband of Joanne Rossler), Jerry Ruggle (brother of Dr. Paul Ruggle), Frank Vogel (husband of former Vice President Lois Vogel), Brett Altman, Skiff Trustee John Lee, Darci Fuller, Dennis and Katie Mehmen (husband and daughter of Jennifer Mehmen), Amy Hansen, Darci Soule (wife of Kerry Soule), Jo Fudge (mother of cardiologist Jon Fudge), Stacy and Joe Purvis (daughter and son-in-law of Carolyn Sullivan), Tim and Kari Hemann, and Lynn Stone.
Skiff volunteers who helped with the race included Easley, Kaye Swarts, Dee Antle, Bruce Hoffmeier, Vicky Norrish and Bob Peters.
Proceeds from the race will go to the Skiff Foundation and Progress Industries Foundation. |
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March 25, 2008 |
Skiff nurse named one of '100 Great Iowa Nurses' |
Skiff Medical Center’s Carol Hopkey, RN, has been named to the “100 Great Iowa Nurses” list for 2008.
A 23-year veteran nurse, Hopkey was nominated by her coworkers for her compassion, knowledge and her willingness to mentor o ...
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Skiff nurse named one of '100 Great Iowa Nurses'
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Skiff Medical Center’s Carol Hopkey, RN, has been named to the “100 Great Iowa Nurses” list for 2008.
A 23-year veteran nurse, Hopkey was nominated by her coworkers for her compassion, knowledge and her willingness to mentor other nurses as they begin their careers.
“I asked a few of Carol’s former and current coworkers to describe Carol,” wrote Barb Rozenboom, RN, who nominated Hopkey for the award. “Their responses all echoed kindness, patience, compassion, caring and a positive attitude.”
Rozenboom recently succeeded Hopkey in the nursing employee orientation role
at Skiff. As she learned her new job from Hopkey, she quickly realized that she had
big shoes to fill.
“I spent many days observing and taking notes as Carol oriented me to the orientation process,” wrote Rozenboom. “She recently oriented a group of four newly graduated nurses. My hands couldn’t keep up trying to write down the numerous examples she used and the details she offered (down to what each of them should carry in their lab coat pockets). Besides teaching and demonstrating the technical aspects of nursing she provided them a framework to develop their own style of bedside nursing. She encouraged them to seek out new experiences, get to know their patients and caregivers and to communicate with their coworkers. What a wonderful role model for these young people.”
Hopkey was also cited for her many years of work with the Pink Ribbon Support Group for breast cancer survivors, a group she founded more than a decade ago.
“Carol visits members of the support group when they are hospitalized or when they are receiving treatments to offer reassurance,” Rozenboom wrote.
Hopkey and 99 other “Great Iowa Nurses” will be honored on May 4 at the fourth annual celebration in Des Moines. Recipients from prior years are invited back to be recognized, and the 2008 awardees will invite family, friends and colleagues to share in the recognition of their outstanding achievements.
The 100 honorees represent 38 counties, and the initial pool of 276 nominees came from 70 of Iowa’s 99 counties. The field of nominees was narrowed to 100 by a panel of judges, including nursing professionals and past years’ award winners, who reviewed nominations from around the state.
Steve Wilbur, Skiff’s Vice President of Patient Care, called Hopkey “one of the best nurses I’ve known in my career.” He congratulated her for being named one of Iowa’s 100 Great Nurses, and said she is an example of the best in her profession. “We’ve known all along that Carol is a special nurse, but it’s great to see her recognized by the entire state.” |
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Nov. 29, 2007 |
Wireless network brings Web access to Skiff patients, visitors |
Skiff Medical Center is proud to announce a new comprehensive wireless network that makes it possible for patients and visitors throughout the building to access the Internet on their laptop computers. This means patients can stay in touch with frie ...
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Wireless network brings Web access to Skiff patients, visitors
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Skiff Medical Center is proud to announce a new comprehensive wireless network that makes it possible for patients and visitors throughout the building to access the Internet on their laptop computers. This means patients can stay in touch with friends and family during a hospitalization, and their visitors can stay productive and entertain themselves.
The update, which the Skiff Information Technology staff worked on during November, was a response to requests from patients and their family members.
“People now expect to find a wireless network when they come to a hospital like Skiff,” said IT Director Brad Patty. “It’s nice to be able to provide it for them.”
While guests will be able to browse the Internet and check their Web-based e-mail accounts from any patient care area in the hospital, they won’t have access to Skiff’s separate, private network. Therefore, patient records and sensitive files will remain fully secured.
There is no cost to access the wireless network, but patients and visitors must provide their own wireless devices to use the service. At this time, Skiff does not loan or rent out such devices.
If you have questions, please call Skiff’s Information Technology department at (641) 791-3142.
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Oct. 24, 2007 |
Skiff earns "Top 200 Coding
Hospital" designation |
Skiff Medical Center has been notified that it is among the top 200 coding hospitals in the U.S., recognized for the most complete and compliant coding practices for the previous year. The coding study was presented by HSS, a nationally ...
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Skiff earns "Top 200 Coding
Hospital" designation
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Skiff Medical Center has been notified that it is among the top 200 coding hospitals in the U.S., recognized for the most complete and compliant coding practices for the previous year. The coding study was presented by HSS, a nationally recognized leader in solutions for streamlining coding, regulatory and reimbursement processes.
A total of 2,921 hospitals were included in the analysis, including 708 rural, non-teaching hospitals, 1,228 urban non-teaching hospitals, 754 minor teaching hospitals and 231 major teaching hospitals.
Within each of these four groups, 50 hospitals were chosen for achieving the best combination of complete and compliant coding. Skiff Medical Center ranked 18th among the 708 rural, non-teaching coding hospitals.
H.I.M. Director Janice Balmer, RHIA, said the national honor reflects not only the talents of the HIM coders, but the entire HIM department. "If we didn't work well as a team at getting the charts completed accurately and timely, the coders wouldn't have the entire 'picture' to be able to capture all the necessary codes," she said.
According to Balmer, thorough medical coding is now more essential than ever, with Medicare's new enforcement of the MS-DRG reimbursement system for inpatient services.
Assistant H.I.M. Director Deb Drewis, RHIT, CCS, said the Skiff staff works diligently to keep up with an ever-changing regulatory environment. "With coding rules and regulations continually changing – sometimes daily – this award shows that our coders are working very hard to keep up to date with all the changes," she said. |
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July 1, 2007 |
Skiff, Newton medical community offers weekly free clinic |
The Jasper County Free Clinic offers a free weekly clinic from 6-7 p.m. on Thursdays, in the Skiff Specialty Clinic, Ross Medical Arts Building, 300 N. 4th Ave. E., Newton. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m. and is open to all area ...
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Skiff, Newton medical community offers weekly free clinic
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The Jasper County Free Clinic offers a free weekly clinic from 6-7 p.m. on Thursdays, in the Skiff Specialty Clinic, Ross Medical Arts Building, 300 N. 4th Ave. E., Newton. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m. and is open to all area patients without health insurance.
Seven staff members, including the provider, will be on hand to offer care. Dianne Ruggle, clinic manager, notes that the clinic is staffed entirely by volunteers. "We appreciate all of the people who are dedicating their time to make this possible," she said.
The Jasper County Free Clinic is part of Free Clinics of Iowa, a volunteer health-care network that makes it possible for volunteer doctors, nurses and other health-care experts to provide basic services at no cost to the patient. Persons needing this service are asked to arrive in the 30-minute period before 6 p.m. on any Thursday. No appointments are necessary. |
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April 1, 2007 |
Skiff provided $1,364,581 in free or reduced-price health services |
A study by the Iowa Hospital Association shows that Skiff Medical Center provided $1,364,581 in free or reduced-price health services to residents of Newton and Jasper County last year.
“Now more than ever, it’s importa ...
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Skiff provided $1,364,581 in free or reduced-price health services
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A study by the Iowa Hospital Association shows that Skiff Medical Center provided $1,364,581 in free or reduced-price health services to residents of Newton and Jasper County last year.
“Now more than ever, it’s important that we give back to the community that supports us so well,” said Eric Lothe, president of the not-for-profit Newton hospital.
In all, Skiff spent $354,634 providing free or heavily subsidized community services in fiscal year 2005. It provided another $163,528 in financial or in-kind donations, and $864,419 in care for financially needy patients and bad debt expense.
The study illustrates how much it costs hospitals such as Skiff to provide dozens of services such as immunizations for children, free health screenings, health education programs, counseling and support groups, reduced-price health services, and transportation services. It also shows the cost of charity care for indigent patients and bad debt losses.
Services reached 34,497 people
Skiff provided 48 health-related services at no charge, or at a heavily discounted cost. These services reached a total of 34,497 people in Newton and Jasper County.
“As stewards of the community’s health resources, we have an obligation to provide the kinds of services that are needed here, even if those services lose money,” Lothe said.
Skiff’s educational services included breastfeeding education, babysitting classes, cancer education, community health fairs, CPR classes, diabetes education, family and parenting classes, healthy heart education, nutritional counseling, parish nursing programs, prenatal education, school-based educational programs, senior outreach services, smoking cessation classes, women’s health seminar, lunch and learn programs, and bereavement education efforts. These services reached 15,745 people, and were provided at a cost to Skiff of $85,166.
Skiff provided a number of free or highly subsidized health screenings, including blood pressure clinics, colorectal cancer screenings, hearing tests, women’s health screenings, work-site health screenings, sclerosis screenings and bone density screenings. These screenings served 3,398 people and were provided at a loss of $45,311.
Skiff-sponsored support groups reached 269 people dealing with issues such as grief, cancer, heart disease, diabetes and fibromyalgia. These free support groups cost $6,532 to Skiff to provide.
The hospital provided other self-help programs involving heart disease, nutrition, sports injury treatment and prevention, arthritis and fibromyalgia. Skiff spent $4,536 providing these services last year.
Skiff provided immunizations, flu shots and other vaccinations to 2,559 people, at a cost of $96,172. The hospital also spent $96,842 supporting such non-billed or reduced-fee services as its maternal health program, child health program, communicable disease follow-up visits, early periodic health screenings, Lifeline Emergency Response System, and empowerment visits to newborns. These programs reached 2,127 children and adults.
Financial contributions
Skiff and its non-profit foundation also provided $163,528 in financial or in-kind contributions to a number of health-related causes, events or relief efforts. These included donations of new or used medical equipment, funding for community health clinics, medical support for events and sponsorship of health-related community efforts.
Because the survey involved only 2005 data, it did not include Skiff’s recent sponsorship of the RSVP transportation service. Skiff provides office space, phone service, marketing support and other assistance for this local health-related services.
The survey also did not take into account the financial shortfall hospitals experience from the Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement programs.
All 117 Iowa hospitals participated in the IHA study. Together, they provided more than $340 million in community benefit programs in 2005. This includes more than $353 million in uncompensated care and more than $64 million in free or discounted programs and services.
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Feb. 21, 2007 |
Skiff’s positive image continues to grow in Jasper County |
A scientific survey of Jasper County residents shows that Skiff's reputation continues to improve in the eyes of our community. The survey, completed last month, asked nearly 500 randomly selected residents to share their opini ...
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Skiff’s positive image continues to grow in Jasper County
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A scientific survey of Jasper County residents shows that Skiff's reputation continues to improve in the eyes of our community. The survey, completed last month, asked nearly 500 randomly selected residents to share their opinions about area hospitals and physicians. The result: Skiff is now perceived to be the "best" provider of 8 of the 10 services evaluated in the survey.
"We've known from previous surveys that Skiff is well regarded by the communities we serve," said Skiff President Eric Lothe. "But it's nice to see that the public perceives us as improving every year."
Survey respondents answered 28 questions about health care services, as well as demographic information about where they lived, their gender, income, insurance provider, number of children, and length of time lived in the area. This allows Skiff to measure how specific segments of our population (women ages 18-44, for instance, or residents of Colfax) feel about the health care they receive..
The 2007 survey results show that Jasper County residents now rate Skiff as the " best" provider in these areas:
Quality of nursing care
Emergency care
Quality of physician care
General surgery
Availability of specialists
Latest equipment and technology
Maternity care
Orthopedics
Skiff tied with Blank Children's Hospital as the best provider of pediatric care. For cardiac care, Skiff ranked third behind Mercy Medical Center and Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines.
Skiff 's ranking in nearly every area is considerably higher than in 1994 and 1997, when the hospital commissioned similar community attitude surveys.
When asked what kind of health services are most-needed in their community, 34.6 percent of the survey respondents named comprehensive cancer treatment. Other needed services included more family practice doctors (29.8 percent), more OB/GYN care (20.7 percent), more pediatric care (19.5 percent) and more orthopedic care (18 percent).
When asked what kind of specialists are most needed, cardiology was named most often (12.1 percent), followed by oncology (9.7 percent), geriatrics (9 percent) and pediatrics (4.6 percent).
Asked what they liked most about Skiff Medical Center, 34.3 percent said it was the professional staff and quality of care. Skiff 's convenient location was next, followed by updated equipment and technology.
When asked what is the biggest improvement at Skiff within the last two years, 20.9 percent said it was the updated equipment and technology. Other answers included the Monarch Wing (20.2 percent), the addition of more doctors (16.5 percent) and the remodeling of the hospital (4 percent).
The survey also probed the attitudes of Jasper County residents toward some expansion plans that are being considered by Skiff. These plans may include all private rooms, a new emergency department, women's health center, and birthing center. The idea of all private inpatient rooms drew an overwhelmingly positive response, with 81.7 percent support.
Asked which of the other projects are needed, a new emergency room drew the largest response (31.2 percent). The women's health center was next with 21.3 percent, followed by the birthing center (11 percent). Overall, 63 percent said the new additions are " definitely needed" or " somewhat needed", 19 percent said they were not needed, and 17.8 percent said they did not know.
The survey confirmed that the satellite medical clinics in Baxter, Colfax and Monroe have helped Skiff win customers in these communities. Baxter was identified as the community with the most potential for future market share growth.
The survey was conducted by the MSR Group, a market research firm in Omaha, Nebraska. Respondents were not told who sponsored the survey, and Skiff Medical Center was not mentioned by name until question 21 of the 28-question survey. Survey Coordinator Marv Sagar of the MSR Group said the total sampling error for the survey is less than 5 percent.
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