Inspiring HealtH

Volunteer Doula Coordinator Emily and Emergency Department Registered Nurse Becka

SUMMER 2013

da Vinci® Surgery:Learn more about the cutting edgeprocedures from local physicians

The Neighborhoods at Brookview:

A Win-Win:

Residents and staff move to their new home

How a new CT scanner benefits patients and care providers

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F I G H T the Bite2012 was a record year for West Nile Virus with 202 cases in South Dakota alone. Last year’s abnormally warm spring and summer promoted virus growth in mosquitoes, increasing infection rates to humans.

New Rehab Services Director Gavin WeberGavin Weber was recently promoted as the Rehab Services Director for Brookings Health System. In this new role, Weber will oversee the physical, occupational and speech therapy teams. He will provide direct patient care services, as well as manage the department scheduling, budget and long term strategic plan.

“I get to work with a great team to provide exceptional care to Brookings Health System’s patients,” said Weber.

Weber is a physical therapist and certified athletic trainer. He joined Brookings Health

System’s physical therapy team a year ago. Weber has an undergraduate degree from SDSU in athletic training and a doctorate degree in physical therapy from USD. He previously worked for Prairie Lakes Healthcare System in Watertown.

Brookings Health System Rehab Services includes comprehensive in-patient and out-patient therapy services including; physical, occupational and speech therapy.

For more information on rehabilitation services, please call (605) 696-8821 or visit www.brookingshealth.org/therapy.

accordinG to the cdc, best way to prevent West Nile Virus is to avoid mosquito bites. As the 2013 West Nile season approaches, Brookings Health System encourages you to follow these tips:

Use an EPA-registered insect repellent when outdoors. Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn.

During these times use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, and consider staying indoors.

Install good screens on your windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.

Drain standing water that serves as mosquito breeding sites. Change water in pet dishes and bird baths weekly. Drill holes in tire swings to drain water. Keep children’s wading pools empty and on their sides when not in use.

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established in response to feedback from birth experience focus groups held in 2011, Brookings Health System’s hospital became the first in the state to offer volunteer doula services for labor and delivery, and the first in the nation to offer volunteer postpartum doula support to expectant parents free of charge.

This unique program caught the attention of a team of SDSU researchers who will work with Brookings Health System to conduct two studies that will examine the experiences of mothers, doulas and Brookings Health System staff since the implementation of the volunteer doula program. The research project is funded by grants from the Rural Health Research Center at SDSU and the Women and Giving Foundation at SDSU.

“It’s exciting for us to partner with Brookings Health System to do this research,” Anderson said. “We want to hear from the women who these programs were designed to serve. Are the volunteer doula programs working? Do women like them? Are they accomplishing the goals they were set out to accomplish? And, are there ways to enhance these programs to better serve women.”

Anderson and the team are currently conducting focus groups and one-on-one interviews. The research will wrap up in December 2013.

To learn more about the volunteer doula program and services offered at New Beginnings Birth Center visit, www.brookingshealth.org/OB.

Volunteer Doula Program in the SpotlightResearchers at South Dakota State University have made the Volunteer Doula Program at New Beginnings Birth Center the focus of two studies.

Brookings Health System’s new, 32-slice Computerized Tomography (CT) system, also known as a CAT scanner, quickly produces high-resolution pictures, creating greater detail to help care providers better diagnose and treat patients.

“in addition to shoWinG Greater imaGinG detail, the new system also reduces the dose of radiation a patient is exposed to for image creation by 40 percent,” said Diagnostic Imaging Director Tim Watson. “Increased processing speed and a simplified staff workflow contributes to a quicker patient scan time and allows a faster diagnosis from clinicians.”

The new medical imaging system also has a built-in emergency scan mode, allowing staff to quickly launch and finish emergency exams. In addition, the CT table holds up to 500 pounds to accommodate bariatric patients, and the system is environmentally friendly, requiring 60 percent less power to operate.

“Overall, the new system’s technology advancements are a win-win for patients and health care providers,” said Watson.

The CT scanner was installed this spring and replaces an older model. The new scanner has already been used to generate 3D images of patient anatomy. All captured images are stored on Brookings Health System’s picture archiving and communication system (PACS). This system allows Brookings Health System to easily share images with other health care providers, including high-resolution, digital images from the new CT scanner.

Brookings Health System’s imaging department performs over 12,000 diagnostic imaging procedures annually using advanced medical imaging systems, including X-rays, nuclear medicine, ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRIs.

For more information about Brookings Health System’s full imaging services, please visit www.brookingshealth.org/image.

A Quick, C L E A R I M A G E

summer 2013

Ask

the

Surg

eons

Brookings Health System added the da Vinci® robotic assisted surgery platform to its list of services earlier this year, with several robotic-assisted procedures already performed. General Surgeon Theresa Oey-Devine and OBGYN Ellen Hopper answer some of the most common questions surrounding da Vinci general surgery and hysterectomy.

1. What general surgeries can be performed using da Vinci?

Dr. Oey-Devine: General surgeries currently performed using the da Vinci robotic surgical system at Brookings Health System include gallbladder removal, hernia repair, and colon resection. We plan on adding new surgical procedures as I and our surgical staff are trained to perform them.

2. How common is hysterectomy?

Dr. Hopper: Hysterectomy is the second most common surgery among U.S. women; about 600,000 are performed each year. By age 60, one in three women will have had a hysterectomy.

3. When does a physician typically recommend a woman have a hysterectomy?

Dr. Hopper: Reasons why a woman would have a hysterectomy include abnormal uterine bleeding, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, adenomyosis, chronic pelvic pain, pelvic organ prolapse, and uterine or ovarian cancer. Generally, the most common reason is due to abnormal uterine bleeding, which can be caused by uterine fibroids, endometrial polyps, cancer or ovulatory dysfunction. Abnormal uterine bleeding can occur when a woman reaches the perimenopausal period; it can present as irregular and heavy bleeding, typically due to anovulatory cycles. When women age, their ovulatory function declines and can cause heavy and irregular periods.

4. How is da Vinci surgery different than other surgery methods?

Dr. Oey-Devine: Two other major surgery types are open surgery and traditional laparoscopic surgery. Robotic assisted surgery is minimally invasive, which means surgeons operate through a few tiny incisions, called ports, instead of a large incision like open surgery. Traditional laparoscopic procedures are also minimally invasive. However, the da Vinci system’s robotic arms are more flexible than standard laparoscopic tools and allow greater precision and better access to difficult areas.

5. What different techniques do doctors use to perform hysterectomy?

Dr. Hopper: An abdominal hysterectomy requires creating a large, open incision on the abdomen and removing the uterus through that incision. A vaginal hysterectomy involves making an incision vaginally and removing the uterus through the vagina. A hysterectomy can be performed by combining both methods using minimally invasive

Dr. Oey-Devine Dr. Hopper

Traditional Open Surgery Incision

da Vinci Hysterectomy Incisions

brookingshealth.org

technology. This route requires several small incisions on the abdomen so the operation can be done laparoscopically. The daVinci robot is a tool to assist us in operating laparoscopically. It allows women to undergo a hysterectomy without having a large abdominal incision so hospitalization time is shorter, pain is reduced, and many women can return to work quicker.

6. What are the benefits of da Vinci surgery and hysterectomy?

Dr. Oey-Devine: Because robotic-assisted surgery is minimally invasive, it reduces scarring. Surgeons have enhanced vision, precision, dexterity and control using the da Vinci robot. What that means for patients is they have less blood loss, less post-operative pain and discomfort, less risk for infection, a shorter hospital stay, and a faster recovery.

Dr. Hopper: Compared to open surgery, benefits of da Vinci hysterectomy include less blood loss, less pain, a shorter hospital stay, and minimal abdominal scarring. Benefits over traditional laparoscopic procedures include 3D visualization for the surgeon, finer instruments and wristed controls for more precision.

7. When is a person a good candidate for da Vinci robotic-assisted surgery?

Dr. Oey-Devine: The ideal robot-assisted patient is an individual who has not had many previous abdominal surgeries. Previous abdominal procedures such as appendectomy, gallbladder removal, or inguinal hernia repair would not exclude a patient from robotic surgery. The longer a patient is from having a previous surgery helps make them a good candidate. Individuals with significant cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases

may require an extensive cardiac and medical review before they would

be considered for robotic surgery.

8. When is a woman a good candidate for da Vinci robotic-assisted hysterectomy?

Dr. Hopper: Most women are candidates for robotic hysterectomy.

It is especially useful for overweight women where traditional laparoscopy can be more difficult, women with endometriosis and scar tissue, and women who have had previous abdominal surgeries like C-sections, hernia repairs, or gallbladder removal. Women with enlarged uterii who would otherwise need an open abdominal hysterectomy are also good candidates. Robotic technology is also very useful for hysterectomy for cancer when lymph node sampling needs to be performed.

9. How long does a patient need to stay in the hospital after da Vinci surgery?

Dr. Oey-Devine: The length of stay and recovery time varies from patient to patient no matter what surgery technique is used. Typically, gallbladder and hernia surgeries are one day procedures where a patient comes in, has surgery and goes home the same day. Colon surgeries require hospitalization that mostly depends on how quickly the patient’s bowel function returns.

Dr. Hopper: Most women who have robotic-assisted hysterectomy can return home later that day or the following morning. Once a woman can get up and walk around, urinate, keep

some food and liquid down, and has her pain controlled, she is ready for discharge.

10. What should a patient know before they have surgery?

Dr. Oey-Devine: There are risks to every procedure we perform. When we recommend a procedure be performed, we weigh the risks against the benefits and feel the benefits outweigh the risks of surgery. You should always have a thorough discussion with your surgeon about the risks and benefits so you know and understand what to expect.

Dr. Hopper: I agree with Dr. Oey-Devine. A hysterectomy is a major operation regardless of how the surgery is performed. Women should be aware of the risks, options and benefits to make an educated decision. There are other medical and surgical options that women can try prior to undergoing hysterectomy. A woman should also have a detailed discussion with her physician regarding ovarian preservation versus ovarian removal at the time of hysterectomy.

Interested in learning more about da Vinci robotic assisted surgery? Visit www.brookingshealth.org/robot.

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summer 2013

chocolate chip cookies cool on the kitchen counter while a group of residents visit on the patio enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. This is a typical summer afternoon at The Neighborhoods at Brookview, Brookings Health System’s new skilled nursing facility.

Having just moved in the first week in June, residents have already embraced the new social model of care this home-like facility provides. It encourages residents to make their own life decisions, such as when they wish to wake up, sleep and bathe, rather than following institutional schedules. Residents also enjoy more independence and privacy, with their own bedroom and bathroom.

“This facility gives independence and respect back to our residents. The new structure allows our loving staff to fully deliver the social model of care to our residents,” said Long-Term Care Administrator Jason Hanssen.

Hanssen explains that within this social model of care, staff are consistently assigned to the same neighborhood and residents. Brookings Health System has adopted the universal worker concept where staff members are cross trained in several areas to help accommodate resident’s needs.

“This new facility and culture is all about our residents. We want to give them their sense of security and belonging back,” Hanssen said.

The social care model thrives at The Neighborhoods because of its unique design.

The Neighborhoods at Brookview is a pod-style facility with three distinct neighborhoods. Each neighborhood consists of two households. Each household accommodates 13 residents with a total of 26 residents per neighborhood. The neighborhoods and households include a kitchen and living spaces, as well as, private family dining rooms, a spa area and other amenities.

Centrally located between and connecting the three neighborhoods is the Town Center. Town Center is the heart of social activity and serves as the community’s Main Avenue. Here residents gather for social interaction with each other and loved ones, including religious services, coffee, and purchasing sundries. The Town Center includes:

Country Store

Café

Library with Internet Café

Chapel

Beauty/Barber Shop with Manicure Station

Large Gathering Hall

Lobby and Lounge Area

Administration Offices

Completion of this new skilled nursing facility is phase two of Brookings Health System’s overall Master Campus Plan. The 67,000 square feet structure, which was constructed under the guidance of general contractor Clark Drew construction, triples the existing space at Brookview Manor.

To view photos of The Neighborhoods at Brookview and to learn more about this new skilled nursing facility, visit www.brookingshealth.org/SkilledNursingFacility, or scan the QR code with your smartphone.

brookingshealth.org

Welcome HomeConstruction of The Neighborhoods at Brookview

is complete. Residents moved into the new skilled

nursing facility and are adapting well to the new culture

and their home-like, neighborhood environment.

Brookings Health System Foundation announced a total of over $617,000 in gifts and pledges were raised as a result of the “Make this House a Home” campaign. The total, exceeding the goal of $600,000, was revealed during the open house ceremony held May 31 at The Neighborhoods at Brookview, the new skilled nursing facility on Yorkshire Drive.

Those giving at the Lead Gift Level of $250,000 or more are Pat and Dale Larson. Donors within the Pathfinder Level of $25,000 or more are Harvey and Midge Mills, First Bank and Trust, Dacotah Bank and Daktronics.

Funds have been used to purchase items for The Neighborhoods at Brookview which are over and above the building project, such as new beds and mattresses with the latest compression technology for each resident, lift chairs for the transitional care unit, supplies for six new household kitchens, and much more. Residents will start enjoying these amenities as soon as they move into their new home beginning June 4.

“We reached out to hundreds of people in the Brookings area during the campaign,” said Foundation Development Office Barb Anderson. “Individuals and businesses alike explained to us how they value having a health system in our community for skilled nursing elder care, for inpatient, outpatient and emergency hospital care.”

The campaign garnered the largest dollar amount raised in the three year history of the Foundation, which was

established in December 2009. A permanent display in the new Town Center acknowledges distinguished donors.

Anderson points out that Brookings Health System is non-profit, self-supported and provides services to people living and working in the 50 to 60 mile radius of Brookings. With over 430 employees in Brookings, White and Arlington, the health system is an integral part of the quality of life and economic system for the Brookings area.

“The purpose of the Foundation is to support Brookings Health System in its mission to Inspire Health,” said Anderson. “Both the Brookings Area Chamber and City Council passed resolutions backing our campaign. We thank everyone for this strong show of support, confirmation that the people of our community believe a quality, local health system is a priority.”

Two of three phases that make up Brookings Health System’s Master Campus Plan are now complete. The new emergency department and lab opened in April of 2011. Phase two, The Neighborhoods at Brookview skilled nursing facility, is now open. The next step will be renovations to update inpatient and outpatient services at the hospital in 2014-15.

Donations can be made to the foundation online at www.brookingshealth.org/foundation or mailed to Brookings Health System Foundation, 300 Twenty-Second Avenue, Brookings, SD, 57006.

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Over $600k Donated to Make This House a Home

Brookings Health System Foundation Would Like to Thank the Following for Their Generous Contributions:

Largest Fundraiser in History of Organization

Ron & Judy Waltz Van & Barb Fishback David & Sara Kneip DeWayne & Barb Anderson Harry & Connie Mansheim Phil & Roberta Wagner Jeremy & Andrea Beireis

Pioneer - $1,000+ Jim & Kathy Booher Arne & Doris Brown Sandra Faltemier Julie Whaley Justin & Jennie Sell Tammy Hillestad Dick & Theanne Peterson Chan & Young Park Deb Johnston Tim & Mary Reed Rick & Larayne Wahlstrom Sarah & Kevin Smith Wayne & Shari Budahl Avery Joan & Ed Hogan Jan & Larry Fjeldos Banner & Associates Kreisers, Inc.

Howalt-McDowell Boen & Associates Physician’s Laboratory Home Federal Bank Slumberland Furniture Brookings Radio Brookings Register Town & Country Shopper

All other: Mike & Barb Adelaine Joella Anderson Kathleen & Neil Baker Greg Benning Chuck & Mary Lou Berry Jean Blume Bonney Bork Dolores Brage Chris Carpenter Lloyd & Maxine Darnall Bill & Nancy Flynn Heidi & Jeff Gullickson Tim & Mary Harvey Gary & Connie Heldt Richard & Brenda Hieb Phil & Darilynn Hogie Nelda & Arthur Holden

Marvin & Lois Hope Darrell Johnson Family Janice & Loys Justice David & Susan Karolczak Norma Krogman Tom & Judy Martin Maurice & Patti Monahan Joe & Deb Moore Ope & Beth Niemeyer Lawrence Novotny Charles & Barb Quam Alton Quam Mary & Darryl Reed Basil & Phyllis Robertson Lonn & Pamela Scheid Rich & Darla Strande Charlotte Syrstad Gregg & Lauri Tebeest Glenn & Janet Tebeest Ron & Jan Tesch Kevin & Erin Tetzlaff Katherine Wenande Mary Wolpert John & Laurie Zimmer Credit Collections Bureau Dakotaland Federal Credit Union

Liberty Septic, Inc. NorthWestern Energy Risk Administration Service Risty Benefits, Inc. *Based on donations received as of print deadline.

Pathfinder Lead Gift - $250,000+ Pat & Dale Larson

Pathfinder - $25,000+ Harvey & Midge Mills First Bank & Trust Dacotah Bank Daktronics

Prairie Nightingale $10,000+ Rick & Joanie Holm Merritt & Pamela Warren John & Jan Clites Jason A. Harms Roberta & David Olson Ardelle Lundeen Roberts Bruce & Ila Lushbough Brian & Lynn Darnall Rob & Barb Jones Don & Carol Evenson Carol J. Peterson Duane & Phyllis Sander Alan & Joan Baker Walt & Yvonne Wosje Zeno & Roxanne Wicks Scott & Deb Dominiack

SAVE THE DATETHURSDAY AUGUST 15TH

4th A n n u a l

A I M I N G to Inspire HealthS p o r t i n g c l a y s a tMedary Creek Hunt ClubI n A u r o r a , S . D .

For more information contact

Barb Anderson at foundation@

brookingshealth.org or call

(605) 696-8855.

c a r i n g f o r

Brookings is one of only six South

Dakota communities participating in the

Community Care Transitions Coalition to

improve strategies for care after patients

leave the hospital.

Developed in response to the Affordable Care Act, Community Care Transitions Coalition (CCTC) is a federal initiative which relies on select communities to develop sustainable strategies to reduce readmissions following hospitalization.

Readmission to the hospital, within 30 days for the same condition, is not only undesirable for patients – it can increase overall health care costs. The average re-admittance among Medicare beneficiaries nationally is 19.1 percent; it is 15.1 percent in South Dakota and in Brookings it is 13.8 percent.

The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the South Dakota Foundation for Medical Care allocated funds to four communities to participate in CCTC. Although Brookings was not selected to receive funding, Brookings Health System took a proactive stance to lower readmissions and joined the coalition.

Brookings Health System participates in this community effort to reduce readmissions by partnering with other Brookings area health care providers – pharmacies, long term care facilities, home health providers and area clinics. The group focuses on developing

strategies to improve continuity of care and transition after discharge. Current focus areas include: 1. better equipping patients once they are discharged from the hospital; 2. ensuring clinic providers have the appropriate information at follow-up appointments; and 3. implementing tools to ensure patients’ medication lists are up-to-date.

To learn more about Brookings Health System’s hospital and the services offered, visit us at www.brookingshealth.org or call (605) 696-9000.

This is arecyclable product.

Inspiring Health is published by Brookings Health System. This publication in no way seeks to serve as substitute for professional medical care. Consult your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatment or adopting any exercise program or dietary guidelines.

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