News Center: Franciscan St. Margaret Health

NICU Opens at Dyer Campus

2012-01-25T16:24:00.000-06:00

A Neonatal Intensive Care Unit opened recently at Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer as part of the hospital's new Family Birthing Center, and in conjunction with a NICU at Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Crown Point. (View video of the blessing ceremony below.)

"This will help parents throughout our region feel more confident and comfortable, knowing that full services are available where their child is born," hospital president Tom Gryzbek said. "We will operate in tandem with the NICU at St. Anthony in Crown Point to offer regionalized services."

A 12-bed unit opened at St. Anthony in March.

Both Level III (capable of taking care of the smallest and most ill babies) units will be overseen by Jillian Hanger, St. Anthony NICU manager.

"No family ever expects their baby to need the services a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit offers. However, approximately 10 percent of all babies born will need NICU services to some extent. Being able to offer this service allows the moms and babies to remain together, with no need to be separated by transport," Hanger said.

The 660-square-foot Dyer NICU has three beds, with room for more as the need arises. Staff includes three neonatologists and approximately 20 nurses, according to Linda Kraiko, senior director of patient services.

"Our physicians recommended the NICU to answer the needs of their patients," she said, adding it was in the works shortly after the opening of the birthing center in August as part of a Franciscan Alliance regionalization initiative to expand services to better serve the area.

Suzanne Davidson, Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer director of nursing-medical/surgical and women and children services, called the new unit "a wonderful idea."

"Nurses here and in Crown Point are excited. We will work together and share education, training and resources," she added.

For more information visit franciscanstmargaret.org or call (219) 865-2141, ext. 42033.

Day of Dance - For Your Health

2012-01-25T15:32:00.000-06:00

Download a printable flyer

Dance! Fun! Music! Health screenings! Vendors! Fashion! Health education! It's what you can expect at Franciscan Alliance's Day of Dance for Your Health event.

Bring your friends and family to dance, learn simple ways to stay healthy, enjoy music and participate in health screenings.

Sunday, February 12, 2012
1 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza
800 East 81st Avenue
Merrillville, IN 46410
Get Directions

All are invited. Admission is FREE!

Dance demonstrations and participation
- Dance performances by Eclipse Performing Arts (Chesterton) and Premiere Dance Studio (Schererville)
- Group instructions led by Omni Health & Fitness (featuring Body Vive and Zumba) and Premiere Dance Studio
Health screenings
Vendor's Bazaar
Chef's Corner
- Executive Chefs of the Radisson Hotel and Star Plaza
- Featuring Chef Jillian Flathers (2nd runner-up on Season 8 of “Hell's Kitchen”)
Hors d'oeuvres
Raffles
- Win a Full Day Spa Retreat! ($379 value from Vanis Salon and Day Spa)
- Win a Makeover! ($350 value from State of Mind Salon and Day Spa or Inspire Salon)

To register, call (800) 931-3322. Space is limited. Pre-registration required.

How Far Can You Walk?

2012-01-19T08:48:00.000-06:00

Join us Wednesday, January 25, for the FranciscanFit monthly Mallwalkers program at the Westfield Southlake Mall (JC Penney Court), 2109 Southlake Mall, Merrillville.

Topic: How Far Can You Walk?

Bone Density Screenings provided by Franciscan Hammond Clinic will be available from 8 a.m. - 10 a.m.

From 9 a.m. - 10 a.m., orthopedic spine surgeon Zeshan Hyder, DO, presents "How Far Can You Walk? Understanding Spinal Stenosis." Dr. Hyder will discuss leg pain, including numbness, tingling and weakness, low back pain, sciatica and limitations in walking.

For more information, contact the Franciscan Alliance Health Resource Center at (800) 931-3322.

Latest Edition of Franciscan Focus is Here!

2012-01-17T09:17:00.000-06:00

The Winter/Spring 2012 edition of the Franciscan Focus magazine is here!

In this issue:

Lose to Win - New weight loss procedure less invasive
Breast Care Second to None - Hospital receives Imaging Center of Excellence designation
Hospital News & Notes
Better in a Bunch - Group fitness leads to success

About the digital edition
Each page is viewable in an interactive, user-friendly format. As you read through the magazine, just click on the arrows to turn the pages and while you are on a specific page, you can…

Print, bookmark, even make virtual notes on whatever strikes you. Just click on the Tools icon at the top.
Share a page or selection of pages with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, email and other social networks, using the Share icon.
Click on the links provided in articles to be taken directly to the corresponding website.

To get started, click on the "flipping pages" image or here.

We’d love to hear your feedback about Franciscan Focus! Feel free to email comments or questions to Julia.Huisman@franciscanalliance.org.

Heart Health: Resolve, Reflect and Educate in '12

2012-01-09T10:24:00.000-06:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

Whew...we can all take a deep breath! Don't get us wrong we love the holidays, but talk about stressful...

Shopping: wanting to purchase that perfect gift.
Cooking and baking: wanting to make something extra delicious
Working: trying to complete year end projects

When we think of stress we may not realize that this is one of the risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Let's take a moment here and categorize our risk factors:

The first group is Major Risk Factors that cannot be changed. For example; increasing age, male sex (gender), and hereditary. These risk factors are the ones that you are born with and can't be changed or altered. The more risk factors that you have, the greater your chance of developing heart disease. Since you cannot do anything about these risk factors, it's even more important to manage the ones that you can change.

Next we have Major Risk Factors that you can modify, treat or control by changing lifestyles or taking medication. Here we have a familiar list:

Tobacco use: a smoker's risk of developing coronary artery disease (CAD) is 2-4 times that of non-smokers.
High blood cholesterol: as blood cholesterol rises, so does your risk for CAD. Know your numbers! Total cholesterol less than 200 mg/dl. LDL (bad) cholesterol <100 mg/dl (high risk for CAD) and <160mg/dl (low risk for CAD). Triglycerides less than 150 mg/dl.
High blood pressure: high blood pressure increases the hearts workload, causing the heart to thicken and become stiffer over time.
Physical inactivity: regular moderate to vigorous activity helps prevent heart and blood vessel disease.
Obesity and overweight: people who have excess body fat especially around the waist are more likely to develop heart disease. Excess weigh also increases the hearts workload.
Diabetes Mellitus: Diabetes seriously increases your risk of developing heart disease.

And finally we have Other Factors that Contribute to Heart Disease:

Alcohol: drinking to much alcohol can raise blood pressure, cause heart failure &/or stroke.
Diet and Nutrition: a healthy diet is one of the best weapons you have to fight against heart disease.
Stress: our individual response to stress can contribute greatly to heart disease and stroke.

A New Year is not only time for resolution but a time of reflection. “School” yourselves on what your risks are. Take notice of what you eat, how active you are and what your bad habits are. Then take some time and think about how you can make small changes that can impact your life forever.

Bless you in 2012 and we wish you all Health and Happiness.

Karen and Renne

Submitted by Karen Callahan, RN, and Renne Pfister, RN, Chest Pain Center Coordinators at Franciscan St. Margaret Health.

The Chest Pain Centers at both St. Margaret Health's Hammond and Dyer campuses were the first accredited centers in Northwest Indiana and only two of 27 in the state. Accreditation by the Society of Chest Pain Centers means that you can be confident that our Emergency and Cardiac departments have the right specialists, processes and equipment in place to provide the highest level of care for patients experiencing chest pain. Learn more +

January "Spirit of Women" Event - How Thyroid Conditions Affect Your Body

2012-01-04T11:03:00.000-06:00

Please join us in January for our first monthly Spirit of Women presentation:

“Is Your Thyroid Making You Fat?”
Learn how thyroid conditions affect your body and what you can do to control them by a living a healthier lifestyle.

Wednesday, January 25, 2012
6 p.m.
Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Dyer
24 Joliet St., Dyer
Reginald Board Room
Presented by: Dr. Julene Ricks-Nguayah, Endocrinology

For more information or to register, please call (800) 931-3322.

Watch for upcoming monthly seminars “A Little DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) Will Do You” in February and “Avoid a Brainwreck (Concussions)” in March.

For more information about these events call (800) 931-3322.

To sign up for Spirit of Women, visit our webpage or fill out our online form on Facebook!

WorkingWell in Munster Opens at Franciscan Hammond Clinic

2012-01-03T08:05:00.000-06:00

WorkingWell, the occupational health program of Franciscan Alliance's Northwest Indiana hospitals, has moved from its Franciscan Physicians Hospital location and is now open at the Franciscan Hammond Clinic Specialty Center, 7905 Calumet Ave.

The move was sparked by efforts to combine the forces of Franciscan Hammond Clinic's occupational medicine department with the WorkingWell entity. WorkingWell, a freestanding occupational health provider, is the only program of its kind to receive the designation of ISO 9001:2008 certification.

The International Organization for Standardization is the world's largest developer and publisher of international standards, instituted in 162 countries. ISO 9001:2008 certification, which has been awarded WorkingWell, ensures the effectiveness of all documented processes, and the commitment to their use for every patient.

Aside from ISO 9001:2008 certification, the transition of the clinic's Occupations Medicine department into WorkingWell brings a host of benefits, says Tim Ross, regional director of WorkingWell.

"This move and merger allows growth opportunity to our program, along with having a board-certified occupational health provider on board for Munster and the surrounding communities. Further, a convenient location just south of 80/94 on Calumet Ave. brings centrality to those coming from any direction."

Patients of the Franciscan Hammond Clinic Occupational Medicine department will gain access to all five of the Northwest Indiana WorkingWell locations Jan. 3, when the new department location opens.

Richard Rodarte, M.D., a board-certified occupational health physician, has worked in the Franciscan Hammond Clinic Occupational Medicine department since November 2005.

"I am very eager for this transition, with WorkingWell bringing their broad scope of services and physician expertise to the Franciscan Hammond Clinic. The move provides extended daytime and after-hours coverage to the local business community."

Irene O’Neill, M.D., works at the current Franciscan Physicians Hospital location.

"I look forward to working with Dr. Rodarte and utilizing his knowledge and experience with occupational medicine. Being in a facility with many medical specialists will be a great resource."

The move is applauded by Gene Diamond, Franciscan Alliance Northern Indiana Region CEO.

"The merger of WorkingWell into Franciscan Hammond Clinic’s Occupational Medicine program benefits everyone. Our client companies benefit from the synergies created as two strong programs come together in one location to offer more services and additional expertise, while their employees benefit from what we believe will be quicker and easier access. We hope everyone agrees that the outcome is an even better program."

WorkingWell hours at Franciscan Hammond Clinic are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. The new phone number is (219) 836-4690.

For more information, visit www.franciscanhammondclinic.com or www.workingwellsite.org.

Get Active - Stay on Track in the New Year

2011-12-31T16:00:00.000-06:00

By Jane Bogordos, MA (Exercise Physiology), Fitness Supervisor with Omni Health & Fitness

If your goal is to get fit and be more active in the New Year, here are a few easy to follow tips to stay on track throughout 2012:

Set Realistic Goals – Set short term goals; lose 1 - 2 lbs/week; be able to run a mile in under 10min; complete 10 - 15 perfect push-ups; etc.

If You Falter, Don’t Give Up! – Start back on track immediately, not next Monday.

Plan Your Day – Schedule an hour time slot each day for exercise. Get up early to start your day with an activity or bring workout clothes and go right to the gym after work. No excuses if you plan ahead!

Spice Up Your Workout – Come to an exercise class you have never attended (ex: Zumba, Spin class, Body Combat, Aquatics class).

Bring a Friend to the Gym – It is much more fun to exercise with a friend than by yourself.

Use A Personal Trainer – Sometimes it’s hard to push yourself to reach that higher level of fitness. A trainer will motivate you and adapt your workout to make your goals more obtainable.

Make Exercise a Family Event – Spend family time together having fun getting fit. Play basketball, go swimming, jog on the track, play a game of racquetball.

Prioritize – Make “YOU” the number one priority on your list. Stresses of the job and raising a family make it difficult to find time to keep fit. Just remember, the healthier you are, the better parent, partner, and employee you will be.

Be Accountable – Attend weekly weigh-ins; get re-assessed every 12 weeks; document your exercise accomplishments to keep yourself on track.

Meet New People – Breakout of your comfort zone and attend group training classes like Pilates, Yoga, and Parisi Speed School.

Omni Health & Fitness is a complete health and fitness center that has served Northwest Indiana and the south Chicagoland communities for more than 35 years. With two locations in Schererville and Chesterton, Omni continues to add new and exciting fitness experiences, programs and equipment, keeping our clubs on the cutting-edge of health and wellness. Learn more about Omni Health & Fitness at franciscanalliance.org/omni and facebook.com/omnihealthandfitness.

Young Patient Survives "Perfect Storm" of Illness

2011-12-29T10:25:00.000-06:00

Kathy Kasper says she received the best Christmas gift imaginable – the return to health of daughter Rebeka, who was treated for a near-fatal, "perfect storm" of illness at Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer.

It is a case one of her physicians, Dr. Matthew Meyer, an internal medicine specialist, says he had not previously encountered, nor was he able to find it matched during his research. He called it a perfect storm of circumstances that left his patient fighting for her life from a combination of mononucleosis, streptococcus, severe pneumonia and toxic shock syndrome.

It is a recovery Erin Keith, manager of the Intensive Care and Cardiovascular Unit where Rebeka spent some three weeks, calls a miracle.

"She was profoundly ill and her chances of recovery were uncertain. Everything had set up for a massive infection," she said.

Rebeka, 20, an elementary education major at Purdue University-West Lafayette, said she was serving as a volleyball game referee a little more than a month ago when she started feeling "really bad."

The day before, she was fine.

"I thought it was my costocondritis (an inflammation of lung lining) that I've had since I was 11, so I called my mom."

Kathy Kasper says she made a midnight run to pick up her daughter, who she found "burning up" with fever and weak. Rebeka was diagnosed with mono by a family physician.

But a few days later, Rebeka's condition had worsened, despite medication, and she was brought to the hospital's Emergency Department.

"She went into respiratory failure – she had profound toxic shock and her system was starting to shut down. She was severely dehydrated and weak and the pneumonia caused respiratory distress," Keith recalled.

Rebeka was placed on a ventilator and received large doses of antibiotics.

Asked how doctors were able to help put Rebeka on the mend, Meyer cited her young age ("she's tough"), antibiotics, a lot of supportive care, dialysis, the ventilator and use of four chest tubes.

"It was the wrong organisms attacking at the wrong times. I'm amazed with how well and how quickly she recovered, considering how sick she was," Meyer said, adding, "but Christmas is a time for miracles."

Kathy Kasper, who has spent the entire ordeal at her daughter's side, along with her other daughter, Alyssa, Rebeka's twin, and husband, Bill, said unwavering faith and the prayers of many people, including strangers, caused her never to doubt Rebeka would pull through.

"Faith is the bottom line for everything," she said.

The mother also credited the "phenomenal" care provided by the hospital staff, which also included physicians Rafael Fletes, a nephrology specialist; and Ed Fara, a pulmonology specialist, who teamed with Meyer; as well as her primary care physicians Gary Marcotte and Trevor Marcotte, father and son.

"The staff was incredible. They shared tears with us and they stayed late for her. I can't say enough about how wonderful they were," Kathy Kasper said.

Keith said because her unit normally treats older patients, Rebeka "became like everyone's daughter."

"They didn’t want her to leave the unit, although they were glad she finally was able, because they felt so close to her," she said, adding ICU nurses Jennifer VanDerWeide, Josh Harrigan, Carole Rance, among others, were instrumental in Rebeka’s care.

Keith said the case should remind young people and parents to be more aware of the symptoms of mono and possible complications.

After Meyer told Rebeka she would be home for Christmas, she grinned ear to ear and replied, "Thank you. I knew I liked you."

As for her ordeal, she added, "I really don’t remember much. I just want to say thank you, to everybody."

Merry Christmas from Franciscan Alliance

2011-12-23T14:24:00.000-06:00

"And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. And the angel said to them, 'Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.'

"And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!'"

--Luke 2:9-14

From all of us at Franciscan St. Margaret Health and Franciscan Alliance to all of you...Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Dyer Campus Designated a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence

2011-12-22T14:42:00.000-06:00

Dr. Alpa Chandarana, right, with Jeanne
Deaver-Higgins, breast health nurse navigator.

Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer has been designated a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology, which demonstrates its commitment to women in the community, says Dr. Alpa Chandarana, medical director of breast imaging.

"This assures our patients that we are providing essential breast imaging services that meet the highest standards of the radiology profession," said Chandarana, who has been in her position two years.

The hospital began the stringent accreditation process in the spring and received word earlier this month that it had been approved, she added.

The designation is awarded only to centers that have achieved ACR accreditation in mammography, stereotactic breast biopsy, and breast ultrasound, (including ultrasound-guided breast biopsy.

Peer-review evaluations, conducted in each breast modality by board-certified physicians and medical physicists, determine facilities that have achieved high practice standards in image quality, personnel qualifications, facility equipment, quality control procedures and quality assurance programs, according to the ACR.

Chandarana, M.D., a board-certified radiologist with fellowship training in breast imaging, oversees a 10-member staff. She also credits the efforts of Jeanne Deaver-Higgins, the center's breast health nurse navigator.

"Jeanne is a concerned and compassionate advocate for our patients, having been through so much herself as a breast cancer survivor," Chandarana said.

Deaver-Higgins also is proud of the accreditation.

"This demonstrates the quality of our care, by meeting standards set by the ACR," she said. "For patients, this means the security of knowing they are receiving the best possible care."

About the American College of Radiology
The ACR is a national professional organization that serves more than 34,000 diagnostic/interventional radiologists, radiation oncologists, nuclear medicine physicians and medical physicists with programs that focus on the practice of medical imaging and radiation oncology and the delivery of comprehensive health care services. – Source: American College of Radiology

St. Margaret Health-Dyer Physician Nets Top National Honor

2011-12-21T10:59:00.000-06:00

Dr. Albert F. Milford III is shown in his office with a
framed document detailing the Orel F. Martin Medal
award, and wears the medal he received.

A Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer physician is this year's recipient of the prestigious Orel F. Martin Medal, the highest honor awarded annually by the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons.

Albert F. Milford III, a doctor of osteopathic medicine, who has been with St. Margaret Health since 1988 and in his profession since 1972, received the honor, which the ACOS termed, "a symbol of your outstanding career as an osteopathic surgeon, educator, researcher and leader."

The medal, awarded since 1954, honors Martin, a nationally renowned osteopathic surgeon and ACOS member.

Milford, who joined the ACOS in 1977 and since has held each of its offices, as well as those of countless other medical societies and organizations locally and nationally, said,

"Since the first time I went to an ACOS meeting, I looked up to the winners of this award and never dreamed I one day would receive it. I am very honored that the college remembered me."

Milford was nominated by former students. He switched to a medical career after starting as an educator in 1967, serving as a teaching fellow in biology at Eastern Michigan University. Milford's father was a doctor and three of his four siblings are doctors. But, education is his first love.

"The ACOS supports education and my whole life is dedicated to education. It's not for money or fame. I love the personal satisfaction of helping students, of being able to pass down something to future generations," he added.

Milford served as director of the general surgery residency program at Midwestern University and currently chairs St. Margaret-Health Dyer's surgery department. There, he has been instrumental in placing students, interns and residents from many of Midwestern’s clinical education departments, according to the ACOS.

"Your service to the ACOS makes you eminently deserving of this prestigious award," its presentation statement said.

5 Heart-Healthy Tips for Dining During the Holidays (and All Year Long!)

2011-12-21T08:55:00.000-06:00

With the holidays now in full swing, let's take some extra time to watch what we are eating and how much we are eating. Most heart disease and many strokes are caused by a buildup of fat, cholesterol and other substances called plaque in the inner wall of your arteries. The arteries can become clogged and narrow causing the blood flow to be reduced to your heart. There are medications to help reduce your cholesterol level, but they should also be combined with a healthy diet. Eating the heart-healthy way is something we can do to prevent heart disease. Learning a few basics can lead to a lifetime of healthy eating.

Start with portion control: Follow these guide lines - a meat portion should be the size of the palm of your hand, and a serving of fruit, vegetable or grain is the size of your fist.

Eat more fiber-rich fruits, vegetables and grains: Eating the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables each day reduces your risk of heart disease. Whole grains are another rich source of fiber that can help lower cholesterol levels and control weight.

Be aware of your fat intake: Fat occurs naturally in foods such as meat, dairy products, oils and nuts. Choose heart healthy sources- fish, peanut butter, sunflower seeds, olive and canola oil - instead of butter, mayonnaise. The American Heart Association recommends 30% or less of daily calories come from fat.

Choose heart-smart fats: Fats are not all the same. Saturated fats and trans fats need to be limited because the raise LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels; trans fats do further harm by lowering HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels. This increases the risk of heart disease. Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats have the opposite effect. They lower the LDL and raise HDL cholesterol levels.

Finally, everyone should know their numbers. The Total Cholesterol should be less than 200mg/dl. The HDL (“good”) cholesterol should be 50mg/dl or higher and the LDL (“bad”) cholesterol can vary depending on each persons risk for heart disease. For people with a low risk for heart disease, the LDL should be less than 160mg/dl. Talk to your doctor about your risk and knowing your numbers.

May you and yours have a Blessed and Safe Holiday!

Karen and Renne

Hospital Employees Bring Christmas to Area Families

2011-12-19T11:00:00.000-06:00

Deacon Phil Muvich is shown blessing
some of the Adopt-A-Family items.

Approximately 57 needy families of the Calumet area will have a merrier Christmas this year thanks to an Adopt-A-Family program supported by the employees, volunteers, medical staff, executives and vendors of Franciscan St. Margaret Health.

The Adopt-A-Family program, now in its 26th consecutive year, allows departments or groups of friends throughout the hospital to "adopt" a needy family. Employees work with provided wish lists, which may include needed clothes, toys for children and a Christmas dinner with all the trimmings. The hospitals' Mission Integration Committee identifies needy families with the assistance of several area service organizations. Families are assigned to participating departments in November.

Employees from the Surgical Services department brought
their gifts to the blessing on a stretcher.

Employees bearing wrapped gifts, boxes of food and other donations congregated Friday, Dec. 16, in the Dyer Campus auditorium and the Hammond Campus cafeteria for a prayer service and blessing of the gifts. Following the service, employees delivered the gifts directly to their adopted families.

Organizations that joined Franciscan St. Margaret Health's efforts include Citizens Financial Bank, Hyre Electric, Kindred Hospital and South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority.

4 Easy Ways to Lighten Up Your Holiday Recipes

2011-12-12T08:56:00.000-06:00

Submitted by Lori Granich, RD, Clinical Dietitian at the Midwest Bariatric Institute

We all have our favorite holiday foods. This year, with a few substitutions, we can still enjoy our favorite treats without the post-holiday guilt.

Go half! - Replacing half of an ingredient will decrease calories and fat without sacrificing taste. For example, you can replace half the whole milk or cream with nonfat milk. You can also use low fat cheese in the same way. Use half oil/half low sodium broth for stir fries or replace half the butter in baked goods with fruit puree.

Spice it up! - Adding fat is not the only way to add flavor. Use your herbs and spices to add flavor without all the calories. Add basil to tomatoes and pasta; use rosemary on poultry, meats, roasted potatoes and stuffing; and use dill with rice, fish, eggs, cucumbers, green beans and potatoes.

Cook it Right - Always choose to grill, broil, bake or roast instead of deep frying. Cooking sprays are also low calorie and can be substituted instead of butter and oil.

Bake Better - Use whole wheat flour and oats in cookies, muffins or bread recipes. To avoid changing your product too much, use the “half” method mentioned above. For example, replace ½ of the white flour with whole wheat flour. The fiber will help you feel fuller longer.

A few changes here and there will make a big difference. Look at how these holiday favorites size up:

Pecan Pie (1/8 pie) (470 calories) vs. Pumpkin Pie w/ 2 tbsp whipped topping (260 calories)
Roasted extra-lean ham (150 calories) vs. Turkey wing with skin (185 calories)
Egg Nog (350 calories) vs. Apple Cider (125 calories)
Dinner Roll (170 calories) vs. Green Bean Casserole (1/2 cup) 80 calories
Dinner A. Roasted turkey back without skin (3 oz), Homemade mashed potatoes (1/2 cup), 1 slice pumpkin pie topped with whipped topping (2 Tbsp), Thin homemade gravy (1/4 cup), Green bean casserole. Total: 536 calories, 27 grams fat vs. Dinner B: Roasted ham with fat trimmed (3 oz), Homemade mashed sweet potatoes (1/2 cup), 1 slice reduced-calorie pumpkin pie with reduced fat ice cream (1/2 cup), Cranberry sauce (1/4 cup), Dinner roll. Total: 945 calories, 26.5 grams fat.

Sources: ARAMARK. Calorie Information obtained from SparkPeople.com

St. Francis Tradition Honored at Christmas Crib Blessing

2011-12-08T13:54:00.001-06:00

A Christmas crib blessing was held in the main lobby of the Dyer campus on December 7, 2011, given by Father Henry. Both staff and visitors took part in the blessing.

The Christmas crib, also known as the Nativity scene or crèche, originates with St. Francis of Assisi, who wanted to commemorate Jesus’s birth with a physical display of real people and animals.

Since 1223, Christians all over the world have followed St. Francis’s example by using a Nativity scene as a reminder of Jesus’ humble but holy entrance into this world.

Dealing with Dry Skin: 6 Tips to Bring You Relief

2011-12-07T09:37:00.001-06:00

As warmer temperatures have now given way to cooler air, many of us may experience some form of dry skin. It happens more often when cold air outside and heated air inside cause low humidity. If not prevented, the skin can crack and peel or become irritated and inflamed. Here are some tips for dealing with dry skin:

Take fewer and shorter baths. When you bathe, use warm - not hot - water.
Moisturize your skin immediately after bathing in order to prevent the skin from drying. Avoid products with alcohol.
Avoid the overdrying of your skin. Try patting your skin dry.
Soapless cleansers may help. Avoid excessive use of soap, especially harsh soaps.
Don't overheat your house. Try using a humidifier if possible.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Learn more about dry skin - causes, home care, when to talk to a doctor - by visiting our Online Health Library.

Source: A.D.A.M. Health Library

Hit a Weight Loss Plateau? Join Us for "Back on Track"

2011-12-01T12:56:00.001-06:00

The Midwest Bariatric Institute at St. Margaret Health is offering a six-week course designed to assist those dealing with the "pain of regain" or weight loss plateaus.

Sessions will be conducted from 6 to 8 p.m. Jan. 9, 16, 23 and 30; and Feb. 13 and 20, in the Blessed Mother Conference Room on the Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer Campus, 24 Joliet St.

The program will be conducted by certified instructor Millie Sasaki, a registered nurse; and Lori Grancich, a registered dietitian.

For more information, including course fee, call (219) 852-2518.

Surgeon Nationally Recognized for da Vinci Robotic Bariatric Surgery

2011-12-01T10:46:00.000-06:00

Gerald A. Cahill, M.D., has received the distinction of being among an elite group of 25 bariatric surgeons in the nation to receive da Vinci Si Robotic Surgical System quality and volume recognition from the manufacturer, California-based Intuitive Surgical Inc.

He also is the first physician in Northwest Indiana to perform minimally invasive bariatric surgery using the da Vinci Si system.

Cahill, who is medical director of the Midwest Bariatric Institute at Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer, the area’s leader in such surgery, serves patients from all of Franciscan Alliance’s Northern Indiana Region hospitals. Those include, besides Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer, Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Hammond; Franciscan Physicians Hospital in Munster, Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Michigan City and Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Crown Point.

Cahill has performed more than 2,500 bariatric surgical procedures and has one of the best safety records in the nation.

"I always have strived to make surgery as minimally invasive and safe for the patient as possible. Using the da Vinci makes it more precise and even less invasive, with fewer and smaller incisions. In addition, procedures are safer and patients experience less pain. They also are assured the best outcomes and spend less time in the hospital," Cahill said, adding, "Weight-loss surgical procedures help assure patients longer lives and improved quality of life."

Kathy O’Donnell, R.N., manager of the Midwest Bariatric Institute, said, "Dr. Cahill and the institute are committed to providing patients the best surgical quality and post-operation support. We continually strive to provide life-long weight loss success for our patients. I am proud to be part of a program that is constantly evolving to provide the best high tech options to promote quality patient outcomes."

The Midwest Bariatric Institute is located at Franciscan St. Margaret Health’s Dyer Campus, 24 Joliet St. (U.S. 30). For more information, call (219) 852-2518 or send e-mail to: kathy.o'donnell@franciscanalliance.org.

da VINCI ADVANTAGES FOR PATIENTS
Potential benefits include:

Less pain.
Less blood loss.
Less scarring.
Shorter recovery times.
Faster return to routine activities.
In many cases, better clinical outcomes.

About Dr. Gerald A. Cahill
Cahill has dedicated his practice to weight loss surgery and specializes in minimally invasive surgical (laparoscopic) techniques for the treatment of obesity. At the Midwest Bariatric Institute at Franciscan St. Margaret Health, Dr. Cahill performs lap-band, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, gastric sleeve procedures. Cahill has performed over 2,500 weight loss surgeries with no surgical mortality – a safety record that is unmatched locally. A practicing physician for more than 20 years, Dr. Cahill is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. He received his medical training at the University of Illinois at Chicago. He completed his residency and internship at the University of Illinois at Chicago Medical Center, and a fellowship in colon and rectal surgery at Cook County Hospital, Chicago.

Managing Stress During the Holidays

2011-12-01T08:24:00.000-06:00

The holiday season can be one of enjoyment, connection and fun. It can also be a time of too much to do, too many places to go, and too many people to deal with leaving us tired, frustrated and even angry.

We can feel stress physically, spiritually, emotionally, socially and intellectually. The first step is to identify what the stressors are for us as individuals. We are all different and experience the same events differently. What is fun for one can be dreadful for another.

Judy Elwood, LMHC, MAC, NCC, an Employee Assistance Program Therapist and Case Manager for the Franciscan Alliance, Northern Indiana Region, offers the following tips on how you can better manage stress this holiday season:

Physical Stress

Take a short nap - more than 30 minutes and you won’t sleep well at night.
Get some exercise - even a brisk walk will help.
Take it easy on the rich, fatty, sweet foods that are prevalent during the holidays.
Increase portions of healthy food and decrease unhealthy food.
Slow down. You’ll actually accomplish more.
Breathe deeply.
Do things that are relaxing to you.

Spiritual Stress

Listen to sacred music of the season.
Say a prayer.
Think about the real reason for the season.
Attend worship.
Read uplifting, spiritual materials.
Help someone in need.
Give presents to those who have little.

Emotional Stress

Deal with your emotions in appropriate ways. Don’t push them aside.
Have a good cry, if needed.
Have a good laugh. Don’t take everything so seriously.
Listen to another’s troubles. Give them support.
Call a friend or family member if you feel lonely. Reach out to someone.
Don’t expect perfection from yourself or others whether it be decorating, cooking, baking or even finding the "perfect" present.

Social Stress

Go to a party. Stay home if you’d rather.
Don’t do things mainly because you "should." Do things that are important to you and the family.
Start some new traditions but remember and celebrate the old traditions as well.
Share the work. Do it in a fun way.
Sing some carols while you work at all those holiday tasks.
Remember the "bartering" system. I’ll do this for you since I like doing it, and you do this for me because you like it and I do not.

Intellectual Stress

Focus on a hobby or a good book to take a break from all the holiday "busyness."
Evaluate your goals.
Return the focus to what is important.
Enjoy the quiet of a starry winter night.
Go to bed early. You’ll think better tomorrow.
Have a lively discussion with friends or family.
Play a board game that requires strategy.

Got 5 Minutes? Take our Stress and Anxiety Assessment. At the end of the assessment you’ll receive:

An explanation of stress factors in your life
Tips for relaxing and reducing stress
Links to additional reading

For more information, read our in-depth report on Stress. >>

Fighting the Flu with Food

2011-11-30T08:31:00.001-06:00

Submitted by Lori Granich, RD, Clinical Dietitian at the Midwest Bariatric Institute

In the heat of flu season, you may wonder how you can boost your immune system. The top strategies for protecting your health during the flu season are to: eat smart, get adequate amounts of sleep, stay physically active, and reduce stress. One of the best ways to keep your immune system strong is to increase your consumption of immune-boosting antioxidants. According to eatright.org, "Antioxidants are vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that protect and repair cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals can interfere with your immune system so fighting off damage with antioxidants helps keep your immune system strong, making you better able to ward off colds, flu, and other infections."

Antioxidants are found in fruits and vegetables. The three major antioxidants are vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene. To find these, look for purple, blue, red, orange and yellow hues. Beta-carotene can be found in apricots, asparagus, beets, nectarines, pumpkin, squash, spinach and watermelon. Vitamin C can be found in berries, broccoli, cantaloupe, honeydew, oranges, red, green, or yellow peppers, sweet potatoes, strawberries and tomatoes. Vitamin E can be found in carrots, mustard and turnip greens, spinach, nuts and sunflower seeds. Other foods packed with antioxidants are raisins, prunes, plums, red grapes, onions, eggplant, apples, eggplant and beans.

A vitamin or supplement can also help especially if you have children who are picky eaters, but you may be missing out on other nutrients that could strengthen the immune system. Foods contain many different nutrients that work together to promote health. Also, make sure not to take too much by taking individual supplements of Vitamin C and E for example. Moderation is always the key.

Free Surgical Weight Loss Seminars In December

2011-11-29T15:24:00.001-06:00

People who are considering surgical weight loss options can learn more at free seminars offered by the Midwest Bariatric Institute at Franciscan Alliance hospitals in Dyer, Crown Point and Michigan City throughout the month of December.

Sunday, December 4, 2011 - 1 p.m.
at Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Michigan City
St. Francis Hall
301 West Homer St., Michigan City

Wednesday, December 7, 2011 - 6 p.m.
at Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point
Marian Edcuation Center, Room B
1201 South Main St., Crown Point

Sunday, December 11, 2011 - 1 p.m. &
Wednesday, December 28, 2011 - 6 p.m.
at Franciscan St. Margaret - Dyer
Reginald Boardroom
24 Joliet St. (US Route 30), Dyer

Call the Midwest Bariatric Institute at (219) 852-2518 to register. Visit Midwest Bariatric Institute online @ franciscanstmargaret.org/weightloss and follow MBI on Twitter.

10 Tips to Help Prevent Holiday Weight Gain

2011-11-28T14:14:00.000-06:00

By Jamie Monday, MA - Clinical Psychology, LPC, an Employee Assistance Program Therapist for the Franciscan Alliance - Northern Indiana Region

Research studies show that most adults gain about one pound during the holiday season. Unfortunately, for people who are already overweight, the holiday weight news is worse. People who are already overweight tend to gain a lot more, up to five pounds! Research also supports the idea that weight gain is, in fact, concentrated during the winter holiday season. Although the weight gain may only be one pound, it accumulates through the years and is often times not lost during the summer.

But don’t despair because this year can be different …

You might be asking yourself, “How can I possibly enjoy the holidays and all the yummy food without gaining weight?” There are practical and realistic ways that you can have your cake and eat it, too!

10 Tips to Help Prevent Holiday Weight Gain

Control Portions – Studies have shown that the more food we’re served, the more we will eat – even if we don’t like what we are eating! Keep your portions small, especially with calorie-heavy foods like gravy, eggnog, and desserts.
Keep Moving – Exercise is even more important for maintaining weight loss than for taking off the pounds. In addition, exercise is essential in helping us cope with stress, which tends to increase during the holidays. Regular exercise can actually give you more energy to tackle that long holiday “to-do” list. Keep in mind something is better than nothing! Try to make it a priority by scheduling daily activity into your routine. Read more about how you can better manage your stress during the holidays. >>
Weigh in Regularly – Checking in with the scale at least once a week is the true test for maintenance. Remember to do it first thing in the morning. When the scale notches upward, that’s your signal to cut back on portions or rev up your physical activity.
Eat Plenty of Lean Protein – Boosting your protein intake with lean meats; skinless poultry, low-fat dairy, seafood, and beans will keep you satisfied longer. When you visit the buffet table, opt for these lean protein choices and complement them with high-fiber grains, fruits, and vegetables, which also help fill you up for relatively few calories.
Have a Healthy Breakfast – People who eat breakfast end up eating fewer calories throughout the day. Never skip breakfast because it powers up the brain, gets the metabolism perking, and helps you perform any task better.
Put it on a Plate – It’s hard to keep track of how much food you’re eating when you nibble without using a plate. Serving meals and snacks on a plate will help you avoid the mindless hand-to-mouth munching that can add lots of extra calories.
If You Don’t Love It, Don’t Eat It! – Why waste calories on foods that don’t knock your socks off? One bite is usually enough to tell whether you love it. If not, don’t worry about waste – just leave it on your plate. Use those extra calories for something you love.
Enjoy Soup or Salad Before Going to a Party – Studies have shown that a first course consisting of a large green salad with a light dressing or a bowl of broth-based vegetable soup can reduce the total calories you eat during a meal. These super-nutritious foods take the edge off your appetite so you don’t arrive starving and dive into the candy dish.
Satisfy a Craving with a Few Bites – A piece of pecan pie or glass of eggnog can set you back by more than 400 calories. To stay in maintenance mode, enjoy just a few bites of such rich foods, or choose lower-calories alternatives (like pumpkin pie or low-fat eggnog) so your 200 extra calories will give you more to enjoy.
Savor Every Bite – Sit down, relax, and enjoy every bite of your meal. Take your time and savor the flavors, textures, and aromas of each food. Eating slowly will help you enjoy the meal and will give your brain time to receive the signal that your stomach is happily full.

This season make maintaining your weight a priority, instead of worrying about gaining or losing weight. By keeping in mind these helpful tips, you can enjoy the season’s wonderful foods without feeling guilty.

Tips on How to Prepare a Safe, Enjoyable Thanksgiving Meal

2011-11-24T08:00:00.001-06:00

As we prepare to celebrate and give thanks with friends and family this Thanksgiving, remember a few simple steps when preparing your meal to prevent food poisoning and enjoy a safe and happy feast:

Carefully wash your hands often, and always before cooking or cleaning. Always wash them again after touching raw meat.
Clean dishes and utensils that have had any contact with raw meat, poultry, fish, or eggs.
Use a thermometer when cooking. Cook beef to at least 160°F, poultry to at least 180°F, and fish to at least 140°F.
DO NOT place cooked meat or fish back onto the same plate or container that held the raw meat, unless the container has been completely washed.
Promptly refrigerate any food you will not be eating. Keep the refrigerator set to around 40°F and your freezer at or below 0°F. DO NOT eat meat, poultry, or fish that has been refrigerated uncooked for longer than 1 to 2 days.
Cook frozen foods for the full time recommended on the package.
DO NOT use outdated foods, packaged food with a broken seal, or cans that are bulging or have a dent.
DO NOT use foods that have an unusual odor or a spoiled taste.

If other people may have eaten the food that made you sick, let them know. If you think the food was contaminated when you bought it from a store or restaurant, tell the store and your local health department.

Read more about food poisoning and prevention on our online Health Library.

Traveling With Children

2011-11-23T09:08:00.001-06:00

Traveling with children presents special challenges. It disrupts familiar routines and imposes new demands. Planning ahead—and involving children in the planning—may lessen the stress of travel.

Before you leave, check with your physician. Children often have special medical concerns. The doctor can also advise you about medicines you might need if your child becomes ill.

Know your child’s dosage of common medicines for colds, allergic reactions, or flu. If your child has a chronic illness, consider bringing a copy of recent medical reports and a list of all medications your child is taking.

PLANES, TRAINS, BUSES
Bring snacks and familiar foods along. This helps when travel delays meals or when the available meals don’t suit the child’s needs. Small crackers, unsugared cereals, and string cheese make good snacks. Some children can eat fruit without problems. Cookies and sugared cereals make for sticky children.

When flying with babies and infants:

If you’re not breast-feeding, bring powdered formula and buy water after you get through security. You cannot take premixed formula through airport security.
Small jars of baby food travel well. They make little waste and you can dispose of them easily.

Air travel tends to dehydrate (dry out) people. Drink plenty of water. Women who are nursing need to drink more fluids.

FLYING AND YOUR CHILD’S EARS
Children often have trouble with pressure changes at takeoff and landing. The pain and pressure will almost always go away in a few minutes. If your child has a cold or ear infection, the discomfort may be greater.
Your doctor may suggest not flying if your child has an ear infection or a lot of fluid behind the eardrum. Children who have had ear tubes placed should do fine.

Some tips to prevent or treat ear pain:

Have your child chew sugar-free gum or suck on hard candy when taking off and landing. It helps with ear pressure. Most children can learn to do this at about age 3.
Bottles (for infants), breast-feeding, or sucking on pacifiers can also help prevent ear pain.
Give your child plenty of fluids during the flight to help unclog the ears.
Avoid letting your child sleep during takeoff or landing. Children swallow more often when they are awake. Also, waking up with ear pain can be frightening for the child.
Give your child acetaminophen or ibuprofen about 30 minutes before takeoff or landing.
Use nasal spray or drops before takeoff or landing.

Ask your doctor about using cold medicines that contain antihistamines or decongestants.

EATING OUT
Try to maintain your normal meal and sleep schedule. Ask that your child be served first (you can also bring something for your child to munch on). If you call ahead, some airlines may be able to prepare special kid’s meals.

Encourage children to eat normally, but realize that a “poor” diet won’t hurt for a few days.
Check food for safety.

ADDITIONAL HELP
Many travel clubs and agencies offer suggestions for traveling with children. Check with them. Remember to ask airlines, train, or bus companies and hotels for guidance and assistance.

For foreign travel, check with embassies or consulate offices. Many guide books list organizations that help travelers.

Source: A.D.A.M. Health Library.

Spirit of Women is Here - Join Today!

2011-11-17T13:48:00.000-06:00

Franciscan Alliance is proud to announce a new partnership with the Spirit of Women Health Network, a program that provides health events and resources specifically for women.

"Spirit of Women uses a 'Health-U-Tainment' approach to health and wellness that engages the consumer through fun, interactive and memorable experiences," said Eva Tokarz, regional outreach and wellness specialist for the Franciscan Alliance Northern Indiana hospitals. Such experiences include a seminar series along with two special events that occur in the months dedicated to women's health: Day of Dance in February (American Heart Month) and Girls' Night Out in October (Breast Cancer Awareness Month).

At Day of Dance, attendees are taught fun dance moves while also learning about heart health and participating in screenings. Girls' Night Out will feature fashion and accessory workshops, mini-spa services and gourmet food tastings along with information on the prevention, early detection and treatment of breast cancer.

The seminar series pairs fun activities with educational health messages. New topics are addressed every quarter; past topics have included pelvic health, cancer, pain management, and diabetes. Spirit of Women also delivers health information via email newsletters— brief, custom-designed messages about topics that concern women.

Because women are typically the health care decision makers in their households, Spirit of Women aims not only to help them make the right decisions, but also to keep them healthy for continued care of their families.

"Spirit of Women has the busy woman in mind," said Gene Diamond, chief executive officer of Franciscan Alliance Northern Indiana Region. "There are topics, resources, answers to questions and helpful hints as close as her fingertips. The northern Indiana hospitals of Franciscan Alliance are nearby, ready to provide highly trained professionals to meet her needs, whether through education or the provision of high-quality care that is designed by us to make her feel consciously aware of being loved."

For more information or to SIGN UP for Spirit of Women, check out our Spirit of Women pages on franciscanstmargaret.org.

The Early Heart Attack Care Campaign - What is a Heart Attack?

2011-11-16T13:30:00.000-06:00

In most cases, a heart attack occurs when a blood vessel supplying the heart with blood and oxygen becomes completely blocked. Vessels can become narrowed by a slow buildup of fatty deposits, made mostly of cholesterol. A clot can completely block the supply of blood to the heart muscle in an already narrowed vessel. This part of the heart muscle will begin to die if the individual does not seek immediate medical attention.

Not every heart attack displays the same symptoms as those we see on television shows daily. In fact, many people ignore the early signs of a heart attack, and miss a "window of opportunity' to prevent heart damage.

Here are some of the signs and symptoms that you and your family members should be aware of:

Shortness of Breath without Exertion: Difficulty breathing when performing normal activities. This can be an early sign and should be investigated.
Heartburn: This sensation is often ignored due to spicy foods. Heartburn can also be an early sign when becoming chronic and finding your self taking over the counter antacids on a regular basis. This should be discussed with your doctor.
Discomfort or Pain: Many of us think of heart pain as pain over the area of the heart, this is not always the case. People who have experienced heart attacks describe early symptoms as crushing to squeezing to pressure in the chest and other areas of the body. Shoulders, neck, and jaw are areas that have been reported prior to having a heart attack. Always call 911 if you experience this type of pain for yourself or family.
A Feeling of Impending Doom: The feeling of anxiety and fear prior to the occurrence of a heart attack. This feeling alone is not thought of as an early symptom, but when combined with any of the other listed early symptoms can become a sign.

Remember a heart attack does not happen instantly; a blood vessel clogs over time. Always be sensitive to changes that occur in your body. If you or a family member feels that something is different or wrong please act quickly by seeking medical attention.

Always stay heart smart.

Karen and Renne

Submitted by Karen Callahan, RN, and Renne Pfister, RN, Chest Pain Center Coordinators at Franciscan St. Margaret Health.

The Chest Pain Centers at both St. Margaret Health's Hammond and Dyer campuses were the first accredited centers in Northwest Indiana and only two of 27 in the state. Accreditation by the Society of Chest Pain Centers means that you can be confident that our Emergency and Cardiac departments have the right specialists, processes and equipment in place to provide the highest level of care for patients experiencing chest pain. Learn more +

Exercise and Weight Loss: 7 Ways to Reduce Your Screen Time

2011-11-14T09:10:00.001-06:00

Sedentary behaviors are things you do while you are sitting still. Decreasing your sedentary behaviors can help you lose weight. For most people, the best way to decrease sedentary behavior is to reduce the time they spend watching TV and using a computer and other electronic devices. All of these activities are called "screen time."

Some ways to decrease screen time are:

Choose 1 or 2 TV programs to watch, and turn off the TV when they are over.
Do not keep the TV on all the time for background noise -- you might end up sitting down and watching it. Turn on the radio instead. You can be up doing things around the house and still listen to the radio.
Do not eat while you are watching TV or surfing the web.
Take the batteries out of your TV remote control and get up to change the channel.
Before you turn on the TV or your computer, take your dog or a neighbor’s dog for a walk. If you are going to miss your favorite show, record it.
Find activities to replace TV-watching. Read a book, play a board game with family or friends, or take an evening cooking class.
Work out on an exercise or yoga ball while you watch TV. You will burn calories. Or, set up a stationary bike or treadmill in front of your TV and use those while you watch.

If you like playing video games, try games that require you to move your whole body, not just your thumbs.

For more tips and information on exercise and weight loss, visit our online Weight Loss Health Guide at franciscanstmargaret.org/weightloss.

Source: ADAM Weight Loss SmartSite

Sorority Gives to St. Monica Home

2011-11-10T15:10:00.001-06:00

MartiRoss (left), longtime member of the Pi
Sigma Phi Sorority, Upsilom Chapter,presented a
check to Liz Guzman-Arredondo on
behalf of the St. Monica Home in Dyer.

The Pi Sigma Phi Sorority, Upsilom Chapter, extended their hand to the St. Monica Home, a residence for pregnant teens that is located on the Dyer campus of Franciscan St. Margaret Health.

On Nov. 9, Marti Ross, who has been a member of the sorority for more than 30 years, presented a check for $1,200 to the St. Monica Home. The sorority has donated to the home every year since the mid nineties.

Monies were raised by sorority members and friends at the Clubs for Charity golf outing, which took place at Minne Monesse Golf Club in Grant Park, Illinois, this past summer.

According to Liz Guzman-Arredondo, St. Monica Home manager and social worker, the sorority "has always been very generous. Most of the furniture, carpeting and wallpaper you see in the home are provided by their donations."

According to Ross, the group gives the regular donations "to assist the St. Monica Home in continuing to provide an environment that will foster positive parenting and instill responsibility, enabling the residents to become productive young women."

Guzman-Arredondo appreciates both the financial and moral support. "This group listens to what we're saying and doing for our residents."

Named after the patron saint of mothers, St. Monica Home offers a medically sound and emotionally healthy environment for a pregnant teen to reside while waiting for her baby. Residents of St. Monica Home learn to foster positive relationships and parenting skills via educational programs, counseling sessions and prenatal services. Residents also have the opportunity to continue their education and gain valuable work experience.

Down in the Dumps? 6 Tips for Dealing with Seasonal Depression

2011-11-10T09:05:00.001-06:00

There are many descriptions for depression - feeling sad, blue, unhappy, miserable, or down in the dumps. Most of us feel this way at one time or another for short periods. During the fall and winter months, we may experience seasonal depression, or seasonal affective disorder (SAD), likely due to the cold weather and lack of sunlight.

No matter what type of depression you have and how severe it is, the following self-care steps can help:

Get enough sleep.
Follow a healthy, nutritious diet, and limit the use of alcohol.
Exercise regularly.
Get involved in activities that make you happy.
Consider meditation, tai chi, or other relaxation methods.
Spend time with family and friends.

People who have had repeated seasonal depression should talk to a mental health care professional about prevention methods. Starting treatment during the fall or early winter, before the symptoms of SAD begin, may be helpful.

For more information on seasonal affective disorder and other forms of depression, visit our Online Health Library at franciscanstmargaret.org.

Introducing Franciscan Senior Promise

2011-11-09T12:02:00.000-06:00

We are proud to announce a brand new program called Franciscan Senior Promise!

This program offers health and wellness education for individuals age 55 and older. Members receive discounts, travel opportunities, and social activities planned just for them, along with many other benefits.

Please tell your friends and relatives about this exciting program and encourage them to attend our kickoff event! It takes place at Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Hammond, 5454 Hohman Ave, Hammond, from 9 a.m. to noon in the 8th Floor Conference Center on Thursday, Nov. 10.

Open house participants will enjoy free health screenings and information, a continental breakfast and giveaways.

To learn more about the program and its benefits, visit franciscanstmargaret.org.

Local Eye Doctor Accepts Gratitude Award

2011-11-07T12:27:00.003-06:00

Franciscan St. Margaret Health President
Tom Gryzbek and Dr. Ann Williams

Every year the Catherine McAuley Clinic Board of Directors recognizes one individual for outstanding service to the clinic. This year's recipient was Ann K. Williams, M.D.

Dr. Williams, who practices ophthalmology at the Williams Eye Institute in Hammond, accepted the 2011 Catherine McAuley Clinic Gratitude Award on Nov. 1 at Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Hammond. Tom Gryzbek, hospital president, presented the award to Williams alongside her staff from Williams Eye Institute.

Gryzbek thanked Williams for everything she does for Franciscan Alliance and the Catherine McAuley Clinic. "You are a delight and I wish there were more Dr. Williams'. We are very proud of you; thank you for making us a better organization."

When asked what the award meant to her, Williams said, "I'm humbled by it. There are so many people who devote so much of themselves to serve through McAuley and other places and I'm certainly not alone in that. McAuley is such a quality organization and they allow me to do what I do, which is practice ophthalmology. We can all volunteer in a variety of places, but this allows me to work and donate at a higher level."

Martha Kozub, McAuley Clinic manager, said, "The clinic has been open for 16 years and Dr. Williams has been with us for 15 years. This year, we have referred 200 patients to her and her staff already."

The referred patients visit Dr. Williams and her staff at Williams Eye Institute. Dr. Williams is also on staff at Franciscan St. Margaret Health.

10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's Disease

2011-11-03T15:36:00.000-05:00

November is National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month and National Family Caregivers Month.

The early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease (AD) may be overlooked because they resemble signs of natural aging. However, extreme memory loss or other cognitive changes that disrupt normal life are not typical signs of aging. In addition, the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease do not begin abruptly; they develop gradually and worsen over the course of months or years.

Older adults who begin to notice a persistent mild memory loss of recent events may have a condition called mild cognitive impairment (MCI). MCI may be a sign of early-stage Alzheimer's in older people. Studies suggest that some, although not all, older individuals who experience such mild memory abnormalities can later develop Alzheimer's disease.

Patients may be aware of their symptoms or may be unaware that anything is wrong. The Alzheimer’s Association recommends that everyone learn these 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease:

Memory changes that disrupt daily life. Forgetfulness, particularly of recent events or information, or repeatedly asking for the same information
Challenges in planning or solving problems. Loss of concentration (having trouble planning or completing familiar tasks, difficulty with abstract thinking such as simple arithmetic problems)
Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work, or at leisure
Confusion about time or place. Difficulty recognizing familiar neighborhoods or remembering how you arrived at a location, confusion about months or seasons
Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships. Difficulty reading, figuring out distance, or determining color.
Language problems. Forgetting the names of objects, mixing up words, difficulty completing sentences or following conversations
Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps. Putting objects back in unusual places, losing things, accusing others of hiding or stealing.
Impaired judgment and decision making. Dressing inappropriately or making poor financial decisions
Withdrawal from work or social activities. No longer participating in familiar hobbies and interests.
Mood and personality changes. Confusion, increased fear or suspicion, apathy and depression, anxiety. Signs can be loss of interest in activities, increased sleeping, sitting in front of the television for long periods of time.

Source: A.D.A.M. Health Library. For more information on Alzheimer's disease be use to check out our In-depth Report.

Auditions for the Bulls Swingin' Seniors Comes to Omni

2011-11-03T08:55:00.000-05:00

If you are 62 and older and looooooove to dance, have tons of energy and are enthusiastic, take the BULLS by the horns and come to auditions for the Swingin' Seniors on Saturday, November 12 @ 2:30 p.m. at Omni Health & Fitness - Schererville, 221 US Highway 41, Suite A.

The Swingin' Seniors are a group of folks who learn a dance routine and then get to perform during a break at a Bulls game.

All participants must pre-register before coming to auditions. Applications can be picked up at the Omni Schererville Service Desk or by going to Bulls.com to get an application.

Find Us on Facebook!

2011-11-02T08:20:00.000-05:00

Stay connected with all the northern Indiana hospitals of Franciscan Alliance on Facebook!

As a fan, you will receive the latest hospital news, breaking health news, videos, service line promotions, events and regular updates from St. Anthony Health in Crown Point and Michigan City, St. Margaret Health in Hammond and Dyer and Franciscan Physicians Hospital in Munster.

Our Facebook page also integrates links to our online Health Resources, Twitter updates, YouTube vidoes and our latest Blog posts.

We want this to be an engaging source for sharing information and conversing with the communities we serve as we continue to strive to provide the best overall care to our patients and their families.

"Like" us today @ facebook.com/FranciscanNWI!

And remember…you can also connect with us via Twitter (@FranciscanNWI) and YouTube (youtube.com/FranciscanNWI).

Physician-Racing Driver Smoothly Shifts Gears Through Careers

2011-11-01T09:24:00.000-05:00

Being a physician has much in common with being a racing car driver and vice versa, says Jay Patel, MD, an interventional radiologist with Franciscan St. Margaret Heath-Dyer and Hammond, who also is making a name for himself in Sports Car Club of America national competition.

"The skills needed to be a doctor and a race driver mirror each other," said Patel, who has been in the medical field for seven years and on the racing circuit for three.

"I equate it to my first experience in an emergency room after graduating medical school. A trauma patient comes in bleeding, 12 people are running around trying to help. What do you do?

"It's the same in the race car; there are 12 cars around you, going 120 to 150 miles per hour. You just have to slow everything down in your mind and think about the objective. In medicine, it is to preserve the life of the patient; in racing, it is to get in front and win."

Patel said physicians and racers must be prepared to respond to the unexpected, be methodical in their reasoning and never panic.

"In both cases, after a while, you really don't think about it – you have the answer in your subconscious," he said. "You trust your instincts; you know what to do."

The sense of accomplishment also is similar.

"Taking care of a patient and having a good outcome is like getting to the checkered flag after having a good race – it is what we strive for."

Patel has had many good races and has accelerated up the ladder in the SCCA circuit – winning and finishing near the top of the pack numerous times, against more seasoned, professional drivers.

He's been called a natural and has been told he's ready to take the next step in national competition. His start in the sport was auspices.

"I was in upstate New York during my medical training and had an older BMW that I worked on and had modified a little. I was in a grocery store parking lot and a guy who turned out to be a BMW racing vice president came up to me, complimented my car and asked if I'd ever had it on a race track."

He hadn't, but before long, found himself and his car on the world-famous Watkins Glen course, getting a driving lesson from the BMV representative.

"I was nervous as can be; there were pro racers all around and I had never had the car over 100 mph. I drove like I thought I should, hard cornering, hard throttling and afterward, the guy joked that I my driving made him nauseous. He then drove and it was so smooth. He told me to watch what he did and when I took the wheel again, he was shocked that I picked up on it so fast."

The rest is history, for now.

Patel has attended numerous driver training courses, been schooled by renowned racing veterans who have encouraged him to get into serious racing, and his seen his skills and status accelerate like his car since he began racing around 2004. He now competes, and defeats, top drivers on the national circuit, although he only races on weekends when he is not seeing patients.

Patel will be meeting in the near future with an adviser to decide "what I'm going to do next with racing."

Regardless of where his racing career might take him, Patel adds, "Being a doctor will always come first."

Latest Edition of Franciscan Focus is Here!

2011-11-01T08:26:00.000-05:00

The Fall/Winter 2011 edition of the Franciscan Focus magazine is here!

In this issue:

Hear a Pin Drop - Bone-anchored device a breakthrough for hearing loss
Feeling Stressed? - Know when to get help
Hospital News & Notes
Girls Just Wanna Have Fun - Introducing “Spirit of Women“

Print, bookmark, even make virtual notes on whatever strikes you. Just click on the Tools icon at the top.
Share a page or selection of pages with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, email and other social networks, using the Share icon.
Click on the links provided in articles to be taken directly to the corresponding website.

NEW DATE! Nursing Job Fair - Nov. 11

2011-10-28T08:46:00.000-05:00

You'll "fall" in love with your new opportunity with Franciscan St. Margaret Health and the Franciscan Alliance family.

Save the date...and join us at our RN Job Fair:

Friday, November 11, 1-5 p.m.
Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Dyer Campus
Reginald Board Room
24 Joliet St (US Route 30), Dyer, IN

Share our passion for providing superior patient care and see how our mission of faith can bring deeper rewards to every aspect of your career. In the tradition of our Franciscan beginnings, Franciscan St. Margaret Health provides a supportive environment full of people who make you feel like family. Our hospitals and management team provide you the opportunites and benefits including shared governance, self-scheduling and staff participation in quality initiatives allowing you the energy to pursue new paths and create new advancements to yourself and your career.

We look forward to meeting you! Make sure you bring your resume!

Franciscan St. Margaret Health offers competitive pay and benefits to our benefit eligible team members, including health and wellness options, life insurance, retirement plans, short- and long-term disability, paid time off, tutition assistance, employee assistance programs, and employee discount programs.

To view our current job openings, visit us online at http://www.franciscanalliance.org/pspageext/.

Mallwalkers Learn How to "Move Those Muscles"

2011-10-27T08:18:00.000-05:00

Video highlights from the October 2011 FranciscanFIt Mallwalkers event.

Jane Bogordos and Julia Ladewski, certified instructors at Omni Health & Fitness in Schererville, taught exercise and stretching techniques you can do at home that will build your strength, boost your metabolism, increase your endurance and make you excited about working out.

Free muscle assessments were also offered by Omni Health & Fitness.

The program, sponsored by Franciscan Alliance hospitals in northern Indiana, takes place from 8 to 10 a.m. on the fourth Wednesday of each month on the mall’s lower level, outside of the JC Penney store.

For more information, call (219) 931-3322.

Surgery Department Stitches Together Generous Donation

2011-10-26T13:10:00.000-05:00

Pictured holding the check from left to right:

Sally Pustai, surgery supervisor; Dr. Vishnu Mathur,

medical staff President; Martha Kozub, McAuley Clinic manager.

Back row from left to right:

Linda Long-Jarosik, LeeAnn Bodie, Terri Mitchell,

Diann Kozy, Christina Pierzchalski, Brian Otto,

Tracy Smith, Kelly Mendez, Sara Velligan,

Suzie Vercimak, Luis Gonzalez.

The surgery department of Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Hammond recently donated $1,025 to the Catherine McAuley Clinic, which provides free health care and referral services to under and uninsured residents of northern Lake County.

The idea came to Dr. Vishnu Mathur, pictured center holding the check, while planning an employee appreciation event for the surgery department staff – a Chicago White Sox game at U.S. Cellular Field.

Martha Kozub, clinic manager, said she was thankful for the surgery department’s thoughtfulness. “It will be very helpful to our patients and be put to good use.”

Sally Pustai, surgery supervisor, mentioned plans to make the baseball game an “annual event, which means more fundraising for the Clinic is planned.”

The Illinois Sports Authority donated a suite for the baseball game and Dr. Mathur, alongside Dr. George Hodakowski, Dr. U. Patel, and Dr. Dougal Dsouza, donated money for the food and beverages. Employees in attendance made a contribution that was donated to the McAuley Clinic. A White Sox memorabilia raffle also added to the charitable efforts.

For more information on the Catherine McAuley Clinic, which is located at 5514 Hohman Ave., call (219) 933-2018.

It's Pastoral/Spiritual Care Week

2011-10-25T08:21:00.000-05:00

This week, October 23-29, is Pastoral/Spiritual Care Week.

Every day throughout our nation's hospitals, prisons, nursing homes, and hospice homes, chaplains seek to bring hope, healing, comfort and peace to those they encounter. They listen and affirm the faith values of their patients and calm anxious patients. They empower and help persons tap into their own spiritual resources as they search for meaning of their suffering and pain. They advocate for people regarding cultural and religious tradition, connect individuals with loved ones, support people as they make end of life decisions, lend an objective ear to others, pray if prayer is desired -they bring God's healing and presence to all.

Please join us in congratulating our Spiritual Care Staff - especially your Unit Chaplains - who every day brings God's healing and comfort to all our patients, their families and our staff here at Franciscan St. Margaret Health.

WorkingWell Inducted into Society of Innovators of Northwest Indiana

2011-10-21T12:17:00.000-05:00

Members of the Franciscan Alliance WorkingWell
leadership team, which was given membership in the
Society of Innovators of Northwest Indiana on Oct. 20, include
(top row, from left): Dr. Charles Mok, Mike Polich, regional manager;
Tim Ross, regional director; Moulay Alaoui,
regional business transformation specialist; Diana Bridges,
regional supervisor, business development. The team also includes
(bottom row, from left): Chris Vanni, regional director,
quality services and performance improvement; Gaile Sookradge,
clinic supervisor-Michigan City-Valparaiso; Michelle Arvia,
clinic supervisor, Hammond and Munster;
Sandy Michalak, clinic supervisor, Crown Point.

WorkingWell, the occupational health program of Franciscan Alliance's Northwest Indiana hospitals, became a member of the Society of Innovators of Northwest Indiana during a meeting at Horseshoe Casino Oct. 20.

The program reached a milestone recently when the last three of its five sites gained International Organization of Standardization certification.

WorkingWell, a freestanding occupational health provider, is the only program of its kind to receive the designation.

WorkingWell was honored during the 7th Annual Innovators Induction Ceremony for 2011-2012 after being selected from among 80 nominations received by the society this year.

The society was established when the Ivy Tech Community College Northwest Gerald L. Lampkin Innovation & Entrepreneurship Center was created in 2005.

WorkingWell's Hammond, Munster and Valparaiso locations recently joined their Crown Point and Michigan City counterparts in gaining the ISO 9001:2008 certification.

ISO certification follows a rigorous audit of an organization's quality management system. Quality goals are set, and when they are met, new goals are determined for a continuously improving quality system.

"Industry recognizes ISO as a global standard," said Tim Ross, Franciscan Alliance regional director of occupational/employee health. "Industry vendors are held to those standards, so why not hold occupational health to those standards? We are aligning ourselves with businesses; what better way to do that than to reach industry standards they understand."

WorkingWell provides occupational health care services for all types of workers, including professional, industrial, police officers and firefighters.

For more information on WorkingWell, visit: http://www.workingwellsite.org/.

WorkingWell - Northwest Indiana locations:

Crown Point (at Franciscan Point)
12800 Mississippi Parkway, Suite A 204
Crown Point
Phone: (219) 662-5500
Fax: (219) 662-9684

Hammond (across the street from St. Margaret Health)
5500 Hohman Ave., Suite 1D
Hammond, IN 46320
Phone: (219) 852-2472
Fax: (219) 852-2567

Michigan City
4111 S. Franklin St.
Michigan City
Phone: (219) 879-5400
Fax: (219) 852-5900

Munster
701 Superior Ave., Suite C
Munster
Phone: (219) 924-1568
Fax: (219) 924-2175

Valparaiso
2307 La Porte Ave., Suite 8
Valparaiso
Phone: (219) 476-9389
Fax: (219) 476-9432

Coping with Senior Health Care Issues 2011

2011-10-20T11:01:00.000-05:00

MEDICARE PART D—Year Seven
The annual open enrollment period begins Oct. 15 and ends on Dec. 7, 2011. Coverage begins on Jan. 1, 2012.

Now is the time to re-evaluate your current prescription drug coverage—has it met your needs this year? State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) counselors will help clarify your current Part D drug coverage, explore the changes, costs and options available for 2012.

Tuesday, Oct. 25, 1:30 p.m. – Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer
Wednesday, Oct. 26, 1:30 p.m. - Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Hammond

For more information or to register for this community education program, call Franciscan Health Resource Center at (219) 933-2100 (IN) or (708) 891-9111 (IL).

"Move Those Muscles" - Mallwalkers Event Oct. 26

2011-10-20T10:19:00.000-05:00

"Move Those Muscles" is the presentation topic for the next Franciscanfit -- Steps to Good Health monthly Mallwalkers program.

The free event, sponsored by Franciscan Alliance hospitals in northern Indiana and Westfield Southlake mall, is scheduled for 8 to 10 a.m. Oct. 26.

The public is invited to attend a 9 a.m. presentation of the program theme offered by Jane Bogordos and Julia Ladewski, certified instructors at Omni Health and Fitness in Schererville. Learn about group exercise techniques that will boost your metabolism, increase your endurance and make you excited about working out.

Muscle assessments will also be offered.

New Mallwalkers members are welcome to register for the program, which takes place on the mall's lower level, outside of JC Penney, on the fourth Wednesday of each month. Regular walkers hours are 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 9 to 11 a.m. Sundays.

For more information, call (800) 931-3322.

St. Margaret Health, Franciscan Alliance Recognized for Clinical Excellence

2011-10-18T11:06:00.000-05:00

A report released today by HealthGrades, the nation's most trusted, independent source of physician information and hospital quality ratings, recognized Franciscan Alliance Hospitals in Northwest Indiana as leaders in Clinical Excellence.

Franciscan Alliance hospitals continue to receive Five-Star ratings for multiple years in Cardiac Care, Orthopedic Services, Pulmonary Services, GI Care and Critical Care in 2012.
HealthGrades' report found that patients treated at 5-star rated hospitals experience a 73% lower risk of mortality and a 63% lower risk of complications compared to 1-star rated hospitals. A quality comparison of doctors and hospitals in Northwest Indiana and the greater Chicago market area can be found online at HealthGrades.com or via this link Greater Chicago Area.

"We're pleased that the strenuous efforts of our physicians and employees have been recognized in the context of the latest HealthGrades report," said Gene Diamond, CEO of Franciscan Alliance's Northern Indiana Region. "The results demonstrate superior outcomes in a number of key clinical programs and services. The people of Northwest Indiana have come to expect high-quality clinical outcomes from us. They deserve nothing less."

"Patients today have a wide array options when it comes to choosing a healthcare provider," said Kerry Hicks, HealthGrades' chief executive officer. "At HealthGrades, we are proud to have led the way for empowering patient choice based on objective clinical outcomes and access to actionable quality measures. We commend Franciscan Alliance Hospitals for theirsuperior quality and support of consumerism and transparency in the Northwest Indiana area."

Key findings of the HealthGrades 2011 Healthcare Consumerism and Hospital Quality in America report include:

Patients had, on average a 73% lower risk of dying in a 5-star rated hospital compared to a 1-star rated hospital, and a 54% lower risk of dying in a 5-star rated hospital compared to the national average.
Patients had, on average, were 63% less likely to experience inhospital complications than patients at 1-star programs, and had a 43% lower chance of developing an inhospital complication than the national average.
If all Medicare patients from 2008 through 2010 had been treated at 5-star hospitals, 240,040 lives could have potentially been saved.
In an online survey, 80% said they are very or somewhat concerned about the quality of hospital care in their community.

Franciscan Alliance hospitals have demonstrated a longstanding commitment to clinical excellence and quality improvement as demonstrated by its outstanding patient outcomes across a variety of service areas including cardiac services, orthopedic services, pulmonary services, GI care and critical care. Earlier this year St. Margaret Health Hammond was also recognized for its top 5% national ranking in Women’s Health for the third consecutive year as being named a Women's Health Excellence Award recipient for the 3rd consecutive year. The Franciscan Alliance hospitals have been recognized by HealthGrades with the following achievements by Service Area:

Additional Information on Franciscan Alliance Hospital Clinical Achievements:

Franciscan St. Margaret Health–Hammond
- Cardiac:
  - Ranked #9 in IN for Overall Cardiac Services in 2012
  - Ranked #9 in IN for Cardiology Services in 2012
  - Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for Overall Cardiac Services for 4 Years in a Row (2009-2012)
  - Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for Cardiology Services for 2 Years in a Row (2011-2012)
  - Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Heart Failure for 5 Years in a Row (2008-2012)
- Orthopedic:
  - Five-Star Rated for Joint Replacement in 2012
  - Five-Star Rated for Total Knee Replacement in 2012
  - Five-Star Rated for Hip Fracture Treatment in 2012
- Pulmonary:
  - Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease for 4 Years in a Row (2009-2012)
  - Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Pneumonia for 5 Years in a Row (2008-2012)
- Gastrointestinal:
  - Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for GI Medical Treatment in 2012
  - Five-Star Rated for Treatment of GI Bleed for 2 Years in a Row (2011-2012)
- Critical Care:
  - Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Respiratory Failure in 2012

Franciscan St. Margaret Health–Dyer
- Cardiac:
  - Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Heart Failure for 6 Years in a Row (2007-2012)
- Orthopedics:
  - Ranked #6 in IN for Spine Surgery in 2012
  - Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for Spine Surgery for 2 Years in a Row (2011-2012)
  - Five-Star Rated for Spine Surgery for 2 Years in a Row (2011-2012)
  - Five-Star Rated for Back and Neck Surgery (except Spinal Fusion) for 2 Years in a Row (2011-2012)
- Gastrointestinal:
  - Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for GI Services in 2012
  - Five-Star Rated for Treatment of GI Bleed for 3 Years in a Row (2010-2012)

Franciscan St. Anthony Health–Michigan City
- Orthopedic:
  - Five-Star Rated for Hip Fracture Treatment in 2012
- Critical Care:
  - Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Respiratory Failure for 2 Years in a Row (2011-2012) Orthopedics:
  - Ranked #6 in IN for Spine Surgery in 2012
  - Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for Spine Surgery for 2 Years in a Row (2011-2012)
  - Five-Star Rated for Spine Surgery for 2 Years in a Row (2011-2012)
  - Five-Star Rated for Back and Neck Surgery (except Spinal Fusion) for 2 Years in a Row (2011-2012)
- Gastrointestinal:
  - Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for GI Services in 2012
  - Five-Star Rated for Treatment of GI Bleed for 3 Years in a Row (2010-2012)

Franciscan Physicians Hospital–Munster
- Cardiac:
  - Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Heart Failure for 4 Years in a Row (2009-2012)
- Pulmonary:
  - Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease for 2 Years in a Row (2011-2012)

Franciscan St. Anthony–Crown Point
- Orthopedic:
  - Five-Star Rated for Hip Fracture Treatment for 5 Years in a Row (2008-2012)

About Franciscan Alliance
Mishawka-based Franciscan Alliance, which has 14 hospitals, is a leader in providing faith-based, integrated health care, using the latest technology, innovative procedures and the brightest, most compassionate people to serve patients in Indiana, Illinois and Michigan. It offers nationally recognized Centers of Health Care Excellence and more than 18,000 employees, including more than 600 physicians. For more than 135 years, Franciscan Alliance has had a mission to provide care for everyone, 2.9 million outpatients and more than 100,000 inpatients every year, regardless of ability to pay.

About HealthGrades
HealthGrades is America's most trusted, independent source of physician information and hospital qualityoutcomes. HealthGrades online properties are the nation's leading destination for physician search andempower more than 170 million consumers annually to make informed healthcare decisions.

JDRF Walk; Recap Toward Finding a Cure

2011-10-18T08:26:00.000-05:00

Franciscan Alliance participants at the Walk to Cure
Juvenile Diabetes event in Wicker Park

The Franciscan Alliance Northern Indiana Region hospitals walked to do their part toward finding a cure for juvenile diabetes. The hospitals, walking collectively with over 50 employees at the October 16th Walk to Cure Juvenile Diabetes event, raised money and awareness to go toward the disease that affects this younger population.

Diabetes, known medically as diabetes mellitus, is a disorder in which the body has trouble regulating its blood sugar (glucose) levels. According to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse (NDIC), people younger than 20 who are diagnosed with diabetes account for nearly .26% of all people in that age group. This percentage translates into nearly 215,000 individuals. Working the opposite direction, roughly 1.9 million people ages 20 or older were diagnosed with diabetes in 2010 in the U.S.

The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation hosts this annual walk that drew in over 2,000 people to the 2011 event at Wicker Park in Highland, IN. This event marked the 12th annual three-mile noncompetitive Walk to Cure Juvenile Diabetes.

Thanks to all those who participated in this wonderful event to help fund and find a cure for Juvenile Diabetes.

The total number raised by the Franciscan Alliance will be incorporated into this post once it has been recorded.

Dial 9-1-1 First ... Dial 9-1-1 Fast!

2011-10-14T12:16:00.000-05:00

What is the single most important thing you can do for you, for your family, for your friend or neighbor when someone is experiencing signs and symptoms of a heart attack? Dial 9-1-1 First ... Dial 9-1-1 Fast!

Some heart attacks are sudden and intense - the "movie heart attack"- where no one doubts what's happening. But most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often people affected aren't sure what's wrong and wait too long before getting help.

Immediately call 9-1-1 or your emergency response number so an ambulance (ideally with advanced life support) can be sent for you. As with men, women's most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.
Remember this:

Learn the signs
Even if you're not sure it's a heart attack, have it checked out and tell a doctor about your symptoms.
Minutes matter! Fast action can save lives - maybe your own. Don’t wait more than five minutes to call 9-1-1 or your emergency response number.

Calling 9-1-1 is almost always the fastest way to get lifesaving treatment. Emergency medical services (EMS) staff can begin treatment when they arrive - up to an hour sooner than if someone gets to the hospital by car. EMS staff are also trained to revive someone whose heart has stopped. Patients with chest pain who arrive by ambulance usually receive faster treatment at the hospital, too. It is best to call EMS for rapid transport to the emergency room.

Be sure to check out our blog next month for information on our new campaign called EHAC…….(you will have to read November’s blog to know what EHAC stands for!)

Health and Happiness,

Karen and Renne

Two Wellness Centers In One

2011-10-12T11:57:00.001-05:00

Franciscan Alliance partners Omni, Duneland locations

Omni 41 Health and Fitness Connection in Schererville and Duneland Health and Fitness Institute in Chesterton have merged to form Franciscan Omni Health and Fitness-Chesterton and Schererville. Both are under the auspices of Franciscan Alliance Northern Indiana Region.

"We have regionalized our wellness centers to create growth and efficiency in their staffing, facilities and programs," said Sharon Sporman, Northern Indiana Region executive director-wellness centers, adding, "Memberships are reciprocal; Schererville members now have access to Chesterton and vice versa."

Members were notified of the merger in September.

The partnership comes on the heels of the facilities recently becoming the first of their kind to achieve International Organization of Standardization 9001:2008 certification.

"The ISO process provides Franciscan Omni Health and Fitness a pathway to build a stronger foundation for our operations and enables us to deliver a high-quality product to our members and the community that we serve," Sporman said.

ISO is the world's largest developer of international standards that have been instituted in 162 nations. ISO certification, which is achieved following requested audits of practices, assures a quality management system that provides a foundation of best practices, resulting in highest-quality services.

Gene Diamond, CEO of Franciscan Alliance Northern Indiana Region, called the certifications "a milestone," and applauded the merger.

"Our members expect us to provide high-quality facilities, programs and services, but we're committed to offering them added value in the form of late-breaking advances tailored to meet their specific health and wellness needs. It's our mission. We think it makes us unique."

What Franciscan Omni Health and Fitness locations offer:

The Chesterton location, 810 Michael Drive, is a comprehensive destination for wellness needs. Fitness memberships include access to state-of-the-art facilities, including a warm water therapy pool, Olympic pool, locker rooms with full amenities, massage therapy, a workout area, complete with cardio and strength equipment; and more than 65 group exercise classes per week (land and aqua included in membership fee). It also offers Kidzone, a safe place where children can play and stay while their parents work out.

The Chesterton location also hosts a number of programs and events throughout the year that cater to client needs. It prides itself on a world-class/professional staff that provides as much, or as little, hands-on attention to each member as needed, keeping individual desired results in mind. Onsite physical therapy and physician offices round out a comprehensive approach to aid those who are in need of medical attention and services.

For more information, call (219) 983-9832 or visit www.franciscanalliance.org/omni.

The Schererville location, 221 U.S. 41, offers services in one location that include physician offices, rehabilitation services through the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, chiropractic services, weight-loss and fitness programs, Vanis salon and day spa, a White Sox baseball training academy, Parisi Speed School, a sports performance training center; a playroom for children and a soon-to-open Family Entertainment Center.

Fitness services include:

More than 80 group exercise classes per week.
A more than 18,000-square-foot Fitness Center that includes cardio, strength training, a Pilates studio, personal and group training; two swimming pools, sports facilities, including basketball, volleyball, racquetball and tennis; Thin and Healthy Total Solutions – billed as a last stop for weight loss and a staff of professionals who want to create a positive experience and assist clients open 24 hours a day.

For more information, call (219) 865-6969, or visit www.franciscanalliance.org/omni.

Do You Know Your "Fitness Numbers?"

2011-10-11T14:21:00.000-05:00

Submitted by Jane Bogordos, Exercise Physiologist and Fitness Supervisor, Omni Health & Fitness in Schererville, Indiana.

We all have heard the importance of "knowing our numbers" when it comes to blood pressure, cholesterol, sugars, and so on… but did you know that there are other "numbers" that are important to know as well?

Do you know your "fitness numbers?"

Heart Rate: Resting, Exercise, and Recovery
We have all probably taken our heart rates before or during exercise, but many people don't realize that the faster our heart rates return to normal after exercise is an indication of heart health as well. The healthier our heart is, the lower our heart rate will be at rest and during exercise and the faster our heart will recover after exercise. It is important to take all three heart rates and chart the numbers every 4-6 weeks to check for improvements. Check out the video on how to find your target heart rate.

Body Composition:

Body fat %: We may be an acceptable weight on the scale and still have more than 30% of our body as fat.
Waist circumference: Provides and independent predictor of an increased risk for heart disease and diabetes.

Body fat %	general population		athletes
	males	females	males	females
lean	< 12	< 17	< 7	< 12
acceptable	12 - 21	17 - 28	7 - 15	12 - 25

moderately overweight	21 - 26	28 - 33
Obese	> 26	> 33	> 15	> 25

Waist Circumference Measurements	*Men*		*Women*
Risk		inches		inches
Very High		> 47		> 43.5
High		39.5 - 47		35.5 - 43
Low		31.5 - 39		28.5 - 35
Very Low		< 31.5		< 28.5

Metabolic Rate(MR)
What does this mean? It's simply the amount of calories we burn in a day or how fast our "engine" runs. The higher the number, the more calories we burn and the more body fat we lose. How do we increase our MR?

By eating small, healthy meals more frequently throughout the day. Each time we eat our metabolism increases to digest our food.
Move more. As our activity level increases, our metabolism increases to provide energy to our bodies.
Add more muscle to our bodies. The more fit we are, the more muscle we have, and therefore the faster our metabolism will be.

Tips for a Healthier Halloween

2011-10-07T10:44:00.000-05:00

Submitted by Lori Granich, RD, Clinical Dietitian at the Midwest Bariatric Institute

Halloween kicks off the holiday season. It seems like the next few months are filled with get-togethers and tempting treats. Start the season out right by avoiding sugar highs and choosing sensible snacks.

Halloween does not have to be centered on candy. Place your focus on making costumes, pumpkin carving, roasting pumpkin seeds and maybe even a haunted house. There are plenty of other fall activities, like apple picking, that can be fun and nutritious.

Practice moderation. On the night of Halloween, let your kids choose 3-4 mini-sized pieces. On the days to follow, let them pick 2 pieces of their favorite candy instead of letting them indulge right out of the bag.

Buy treats you do not like. We all know that candy can be equally as tempting for adults as it is children. If you prefer chocolate, buy gummy treats to decrease temptation. Also, try not to buy treats too early - the longer they are sitting around the house, the more tempted you will be. After Halloween, take extras to work to get them out of the house.

Choose healthier options. Pretzels, granola bars and mini bags of popcorn provide some nutrients without all the added sugar. Gum is also a great option as it has far fewer calories than your typical candy. If you do not like either of these ideas, a small toy would work as well.

Remember, one night of trick or treating is not going to ruin your child's nutrition status, but it is important to stay focused while still having fun. Use these tips to help you and your family start off on the right foot for the holiday season.

Video: Hundreds Gather to Respect Life

2011-10-04T16:06:00.000-05:00

Approximately 700 students from area Catholic schools, plus employees, community members and Franciscan Alliance representatives, gathered on a warm and sunny Tuesday morning for the annual Celebration of Life prayer service at Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer.

The service—which included music by Ron Foltman, a homily by Most Rev. Dale J. Melczek, Bishop of the Diocese of Gary, and a praying of the rosary—commemorated lives lost to abortion.

In the lawn adjacent to the ceremony, 4,000 white crosses were on display, representing the number of abortions performed daily in the U.S. To close the ceremony, 1,000 balloons—each representing four abortions—were launched into the air.

See highlights of the ceremony on the video below.

Have You Scheduled Your Mammogram?

2011-10-03T09:02:00.001-05:00

Treat yourself to some peace of mind.

Franciscan St. Margaret Health's dedicated Breast Centers in Hammond and Dyer are headed by Alpa Chandarana, MD, our board-certified, fellowship-trained breast radiologist.

We provide digital screenings, diagnostic and interventional breast imaging, university-level technology and the tools to help women stay healthy and strong.

Special Offer

Purchase a digital screening mammogram certificate for $75* by October 21, 2011. The fee includes the cost of a digital screening mammogram and radiologist's reading.

Certificates must be used by November 19, 2011. To order your certificate or to learn more, call (800) 931-3322.

*Your purchase price may be lower if you find a digital screening mammogram offered at a lower price.

Franciscan St. Margaret Health offers women the most comprehensive breast imaging services to thoroughly exam the breast, find cancers as quickly as possible and make the best decision for successful treatment. Learn more at franciscanstmargaret.org.

WorkingWell Physician to Address Safety Conference at Blue Chip

2011-09-30T09:31:00.000-05:00

Joins other industry leaders to bring safety to the forefront in discussing safety and industry topics at large-scale conference

Dr. Charles Mok, an occupational medicine specialist with Franciscan Alliance's WorkingWell program, will be among speakers at the Beyond Safety Conference and Expo Oct. 26 and 27 at Blue Chip Casino.

The conference and expo is the leading tradeshow in the industry, bring together key stake holders in all facets of safety.

Dr. Mok will address the role of acupuncture in treating work-related-injuries. Acupuncture can be used to treat acute pain, in addition to medication and other therapies. In cases where patients do not tolerate pain medications, acupuncture often decreases symptoms so that additional medication is not required.

The lecture will begin with a brief synopsis of the history and fundamentals of acupuncture. It also will include a discussion of the indications for acupuncture and case presentations where acupuncture was used in work-related-injury treatment.

"I am pleased to be a part of this program and to share information that can prove so helpful to those who are enduring pain," Mok said, adding, "I am thankful for the opportunity to be part of this educational program."

The second annual event will bring safety professionals and leaders together for a two-day program of education, networking and exhibitions. New this year is the opportunity for professionals to earn 1.2 Continuing Education Units, awarded by the American Society of Safety Engineers, by attending both days of the conference.

About Franciscan Alliance
Mishawka, Ind.-based Franciscan Alliance, which has 14 hospitals, is a leader in providing faith-based, integrated health care, using the latest technology, innovative procedures and the brightest, most compassionate people to serve patients in Indiana, Illinois and Michigan. It offers nationally recognized Centers of Health Care Excellence and more than 18,000 employees, including more than 600 physicians. For more than 135 years, Franciscan Alliance has had a mission to provide care for everyone, 2.9 million outpatients and more than 100,000 inpatients every year, regardless of ability to pay.

About Diversified Marketing Strategies
Diversified Marketing Strategies is an award-winning, full-service marketing, communications and public relations agency with more than 20 years of experience in the Midwest. The firm also publishes the award-winning Building Indiana magazine, the leading source of business and economic development news in the state of Indiana. The woman-owned and operated firm is headquartered in Crown Point, with other locations in Indianapolis and Fort Wayne. Visit www.3dms.com and www.buildingindiananews.com for more information.

Free Surgical Weight Loss Seminars Offered in October

2011-09-29T15:45:00.000-05:00

Wednesday, October 5, 2011 - 6 p.m.
at Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point
Marian Edcuation Center, Room B
1201 South Main St., Crown Point

Sunday, October 16, 2011 - 1 p.m.
at Franciscan St. Margaret - Dyer
Reginald Boardroom
24 Joliet St. (US Route 30), Dyer

Sunday, October 23, 2011 - 1 p.m.
at Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Michigan City
St. Francis Hall
301 West Homer St., Michigan City

Call the Midwest Bariatric Institute at (219) 852-2518 to register. Visit Midwest Bariatric Institute online @ franciscanstmargaret.org/weightloss and follow MBI on Twitter.

Annual Respect Life Week Event Set for October 4

2011-09-27T15:18:00.000-05:00

Join us for a Celebration of Life!

Tuesday, October 4
9:30 a.m.
On the lawn northeast of Franciscan St. Margaret Health in Dyer
24 Joliet Street (US Route 30)

The 2011 National Respect Life theme is: "I came so that all might have life and have it to the full."

Join Franciscan St. Margaret Health, Bishop Dale J. Melczk and school children from the Diocese of Gary for a prayer service, music and celebration of life.

Disaster Exercise - Thank You to All Participants

2011-09-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

The following note was submitted by David Milen, Ph.D., Manager of Safety/Security and Disaster Preparedness Coordinator at Franciscan St. Margaret Health.

Thank you to all who participated in the Dirty Bomb exercise this past weekend. The exercise was a success and a positive experience for many of our new employees and community resources. A very heartfelt thanks our radio operators, all ED personnel, environmental, all our nursing staff, the Disaster Committee, our Security personnel, and all of you who volunteered their Saturday to come in and participate for the event.

A special thank you to Lauren Hansen, Roy Wilbanks, Sue Greenwald, Beverly Postema, Pam Owens, Martha Kozub, Victoria Gambino, Terri Mitchell, Debbie Cook, and Larry McPhearson in Hammond. Dyer Campus a big thanks to Thad Stutler, Mary Ranta, Cam Adams, Sr. Moochila, Cindy Steinhauer, Karen Garza, Terri Harrigan, Marian Gralski, Pat Halfman, Donna Laib, and Michele Frankovich. I would be remiss in not mentioning the kindness of Cam Adams to take on multiple roles in the ED, Minor Treatment, and being involved in the Incident Command Post.

Finally, and most importantly, a very big thank you to our community resources for allowing us to use their areas, emergency operations centers, schools, railyards, and countless other buildings and personnel across two districts to make this exercise a success. I cannot mention all 500 plus participants in the note (obviously), but I have spoken with many of you face – to – face and have expressed my sincere thanks for your efforts!

As always, thanks to all participants for such a great job and a true team effort!

Be sure to view photos from the exercise at facebook.com/FranciscanNWI.

Franciscan Alliance Appoints New Director of Imaging Services

2011-09-26T15:24:00.000-05:00

Michael Budimir's interest in his future career began when he needed an ultrasound as a high school student.

Today, Budimir, a Chicago native who resides in Dyer, brings 24 years of experience in the radiology field to Franciscan Alliance's four Northern Indiana Region hospitals, where, since mid-September, he has served as director of imaging (diagnostic) services.

He also is glad to be headquartered at Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Crown Point.

"I once had a very pleasant and positive experience with the emergency room there, which made a statement about the hospital's quality of services," he said.

Soon, in addition to other duties, he will preside over the hospital's newly revamped $6 million Radiology Oncology Department, which is expected to be completed in December, and will be home of a Trilogy Linear Accelerator. The device, which utilizes microwave technology, will make cancer treatment more efficient and more effective, with fewer side effects for patients.

"This new equipment makes a statement to the area that we offer complete care for all patients – oncology cases in addition to providing diagnostic imaging."

An open magnetic resonance imaging unit also is on the horizon for Franciscan Point, St. Anthony-Crown Point's outpatient treatment center, which, he said, "will be very beneficial for patients who may be claustrophobic," while providing state-of-art imaging to help diagnose problems.

In addition, a new Cancer Treatment Center of Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Michigan City is scheduled to open in April 2012.

The 20,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility will combine the most advanced technologies available to fight more forms of cancer with the latest treatments available and access to clinical trials.

Services will include a state-of-the-art Linear Accelerator and PET/CT Scan, along with 14 infusion bays, lab and pharmacy.

There likewise will be a patient and family education center and a community room. Treatment of all types of cancer will be consolidated into the facility, making the process more accessible and comfortable for patients and their families.

Budimir said one of his goals to is coordinate the services and equipment use for all of the region's hospitals, which also include Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer and Hammond and Franciscan Physicians Hospital in Munster, "so that no matter where a patient goes, there will be a positive experience."

"We want to streamline services and provide the highest-quality imaging available so our patients will be happy. Patients are number-one to us; they're why we're here," he added.

Days of Health - Get Screened!: Next Event is Sept. 29

2011-09-23T13:15:00.000-05:00

You and your family are invited to Franciscan St. Margaret Health's Days of Health screening days. Learn more about Franciscan St. Margaret's services and take advantage of a wealth of health information, screenings, giveaways and refreshments.

Thursday, September 29, 2011
5 - 7:30 p.m.
Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Dyer
Outpatient Center
24 Joliet St. (US Route 30), Dyer

Screenings Available

You must register for the following screenings by calling the Health Resource Center at (800) 931-3322:

Bone Density Screening for Osteoporosis
Foot Screening (free)
Peripheral Vascular Disease (free)
Prostate Screening ($8)

Registration is not necessary for the following FREE screenings:

Balance Test and Posture Screening (Dyer only)
Blood Pressure
Blood Glucose Screening for Diabetes
Body Fat Analysis
Heart Risk Assessments
Oxygen Saturation
Sleep Disorder Screening (Dyer only)
Stroke Screening (Dyer only)

Unless otherwise noted, screenings are free. Other screening fees may be paid by cash or check.

For more information, contact the Health Resource Center at (800) 931-3322

Omni 41, Duneland Health & Wellness Achieve Worldwide Quality Certification

2011-09-22T17:09:00.000-05:00

Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Michigan City's Duneland Health and Fitness Institute and Franciscan St. Margaret Health's Omni 41 Health and Fitness Connection are the first facilities of their kind to achieve International Organization of Standardization 9001:2008 certification.

Gene Diamond, CEO of Franciscan Alliance Northern Indiana Region, called the certifications "a milestone."

"Our members expect us to provide high-quality facilities, programs and services, but we're committed to offering them added value in the form of late-breaking advances tailored to meet their specific health and wellness needs. It's our mission. We think it makes us unique."

Christine Vanni, Franciscan Alliance regional director of quality services and performance improvement, agreed.

"Omni and Duneland will continue to improve to meet the needs of an ever-changing marketplace and to ensure adherence to the ISO quality standards," Vanni said. "Compliance with ISO 9001 demonstrates to our community and clients that you take quality and customer satisfaction seriously."

ISO is the world's largest developer of international standards that have been instituted in 162 nations. For more than 65 years, ISO has been a leader in quality certifications for the steel and manufacturing industries. ISO certification, which is achieved following requested audits of practices, assures a quality management system that provides a foundation of best practices, resulting in highest-quality services.

Sharon Sporman, Omni executive director, echoed Vanni's remarks.

"The ISO process provides Northern Indiana Region wellness centers, Duneland Health and Wellness Institute and Omni 41 Health and Fitness Connection, a pathway to build a stronger foundation for our operations and enables us to deliver a high-quality product to our members and the community that we serve," she said.

What Duneland and Omni offer clients:

Duneland
Duneland Health and Wellness Institute, 810 Michael Drive, Chesterton, is a comprehensive destination for wellness needs. Fitness memberships include access to state-of-the-art facilities, including a warm water therapy pool, Olympic pool, locker rooms with full amenities, massage therapy, a workout area, complete with cardio and strength equipment; and more than 65 group exercise classes per week (land and aqua included in membership fee).

Duneland hosts a number of programs and events throughout the year that cater to client needs. It prides itself on a world-class/professional staff that provides as much, or as little, hands-on attention to each member as needed, keeping individual desired results in mind. Onsite physical therapy and physician offices round out a comprehensive approach to aid those who are in need of medical attention and services.

For more information, call (219) 983-9832 or visit http://www.dhwi.org/.

Omni
Omni 41 Health and Fitness Connection, 221 U.S. 41, Schererville, offers services in one location that include physician offices, rehabilitation services through the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, chiropractic services, weight-loss and fitness programs, a salon and day spa, a baseball training academy, sports performance training and a soon to open Family Entertainment Center.

Fitness services include:

More than 80 group exercise classes per week.
A more than 18,000-square-foot Fitness Center that includes cardio, strength training, a Pilates studio, Coaches Corner, for personal and group training; two swimming pools, sports facilities, including basketball, volleyball, racquetball and tennis; Thin and Healthy Total Solutions – billed as a last stop for weight loss and a staff of professionals who want to create a positive experience and assist clients open 24 hours a day.

For more information, call (219) 865-6969 or visit http://www.omni41.com/.

McAuley Clinic Receives Financial Shot in the Arm

2011-09-20T09:47:00.000-05:00

Lynn Miskovich (left) and Martha Kozub (right) accept a donation
to the Catherine McAuley Clinic from Lynn Olszewski, director of
the Northwest Indiana Area Health Education Center.

The Northwest Indiana Area Health Education Center recently donated $9,892 to Catherine McAuley Clinic, which, since 1996, has provided health care and referral services to medically underserved area residents.

The clinic, which is under the auspices of Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer and Hammond, shares a partnership with the center to place students, who are interested in health care careers and who are receiving their clinical training, in settings where they can interact with disadvantaged patients.

Martha Kozub, clinic coordinator, said she was grateful for the donation.

"We are very happy with our collaboration with the education center and its students. This money will help us to provide the equipment needed to aid in their training."

Lynn Olszewski, center director, said the clinic provides a vital service.

"Only through partnerships like that with Catherine McAuley Clinic is the center able to achieve its mission," she added. "The clinic welcomes students and helps educate and sensitize them to the needs of the less-fortunate, so that no matter where the students eventually practice, they will approach working with the disadvantaged differently, having had such experiences."

The funds' purpose is to provide materials, supplies and equipment for use in the training of health-profession students, who include pharmacy students from Purdue University-West Lafayette, baccalaureate, master's degree and nurse practitioner students from Purdue University-Calumet, and master's degree-social work students from other area colleges and universities.

The center is housed at Purdue-Calumet and funded by a variety of federal and state sources, in conjunction with the Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis.

For more information on the center, visit http://ahec.iupui.edu/ and click on the regional centers (northwest) link. For more information on the clinic, which is located at 5514 Hohman Ave., near Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Hammond, call (219) 933-2018.

St. Monica Home Receives Big Donation from Tri Kappa Group

2011-09-16T12:49:00.001-05:00

Elizabeth Guzman-Arredondo (right), of the St. Monica Home
in Dyer, accepts baby items donated by Marian Fricke (far left)
and Jean Smith on behalf of the Tri Kappa sorority
from Dyer, Schererville and St. John.

Dozens of baby items were donated to the St. Monica Home, a residence for pregnant teens that is located on the Dyer campus of Franciscan St. Margaret Health. The items—which included diapers, clothing, shampoo, lotions and blankets—were delivered by Jean Smith and Marian Fricke on behalf of the Tri Kappa sorority from Dyer, Schererville and St. John. The chapter contributed a monetary donation as well.

This donation "helps to keep our mission going," said Elizabeth Guzman-Arredondo, St. Monica Home manager and social worker, commenting that even one item donated is greatly appreciated. "It really helps us help the kids."

Named after the patron saint of mothers, St. Monica Home offers a medically sound and emotionally healthy environment for a pregnant teen to reside while waiting for her baby. Residents of St. Monica Home learn to foster positive relationships and parenting skills via educational programs, counseling sessions and prenatal services. Residents also have the opportunity to continue their education and gain valuable work experience.

The Facts About Fiber

2011-09-14T15:02:00.000-05:00

Submitted by Lori Granich, RD, Clinical Dietitian at the Midwest Bariatric Institute

While walking down the grocery aisles, you may have noticed that companies are adding fiber to all of your favorite foods. From cereal bars to yogurt, it seems they all have the high fiber seal. So why is fiber important and why is it so popular these days?

Fiber is a carbohydrate that our body cannot digest. In fact, it passes through the small intestine almost entirely intact. There are two types of fiber: insoluble and soluble. Insoluble fiber keeps things moving in your digestive tract. It promotes regularity and helps prevents constipation. Soluble fiber dissolves in water to form a gel which slows digestion and absorption.

Fiber has been shown to have numerous benefits in addition to the ones listed above. First of all, it fills you up! Studies show that people who have diets high in fiber typically are at a healthier weight. Soluble fiber has also been shown to reduce blood cholesterol levels and maintain blood sugar levels.

Here are some ways to increase the fiber in your diet:

Consume whole grain cereals, pastas, and breads. Increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, beans and nuts. Substitute half the flour in a recipe with whole grain flour. Sprinkle a high fiber cereal into yogurt. Switch to bran muffins, whole grain waffles or pancakes. Keep skin on fruits.
Make sure not to increase fiber intake too quickly as it will lead to bloating and stomach upset. Try and figure out how much fiber you are currently taking in and increase 5 grams per week until goal of 25-35 grams per day is achieved. Make sure to increase fluid intake as you increase your fiber. Fiber absorbs water and can actually cause constipation if you are not getting enough fluids.
So what about all the new products with added fiber? Don’t let food labels confuse you. You may have noticed that there seems to be fiber in everything now-a-days from ice cream to toaster pastries. But do these fibers promote the same health benefits as fruits and vegetables? You guessed it. No. You also have to consider that a lot of these foods are high in sugar and fat. Your best bet is to have a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

The Meaning of Our Tau Symbol

2011-09-13T12:38:00.000-05:00

The tau is the sign used by St. Francis to wish peace to all he met. The tau cross is a common symbol of the Franciscan Order. It looks like a T. In the Old Testament, it is the last letter of the Hebrew alphabet. For Christians, the T came to represent the cross of Christ as being the fulfillment of the Old Testament and it also represented the means by which Christ reversed the disobedience of the old Adam and became our Savior as the "New Adam."

After St. Francis's conversion, he worked with a religious community whose main ministry was caring for lepers. These men wore the cross shaped like a T as a symbol of their trust in God to ward off skin diseases. Eventually, St. Francis adopted the T as his own symbol. For him, it represented lifelong fidelity to the Passion of Christ and a reminder to be an example of compassion for God's people.

Today, followers of St. Francis - laity or religious - wear the tau cross as an exterior sign, a seal of their own commitment to exemplify God's love and continue the ministry of Christ.

The symbol of Franciscan Alliance, is a tau cross with a giving hand and a receiving hand. The giving hand is generously prepared to minister Christ's healing to the weak, the suffering and the vulnerable. The receptive hand is ready to receive His healing power through our joyful, sensitive Franciscan ministry.

Getting the 411 on PAD

2011-09-08T08:31:00.000-05:00

September is Peripheral Artery Disease (or PAD) Awareness Month. PAD is caused by arteriosclerosis, or "hardening of the arteries." This problem occurs when fatty material (plaque) builds up on the walls of your arteries. This causes the arteries to become narrower. The walls of the arteries also become stiffer and cannot widen (dilate) to allow greater blood flow when needed.

As a result, when the muscles of your legs are working harder (such as during exercise or walking) they cannot get enough blood and oxygen. Eventually, there may not be enough blood and oxygen, even when the muscles are resting.

Peripheral artery disease is a common disorder that usually affects men over age 50. People are at higher risk if they have a history of:

Abnormal cholesterol
Diabetes
Heart disease (coronary artery disease)
High blood pressure (hypertension)
Kidney disease involving hemodialysis
Smoking
Stroke (cerebrovascular disease)

Dr. Jay Patel, interventional radiologist with Franciscan St. Margaret Health, discusses symptoms of PAD and the importance of getting screened.

For more information on PAD, including exams and test and self-care options, visit our Online Health Library at franciscanstmargaret.org.

Pumpkin Prace 5K Set for October 1 ... Sign Up Today!

2011-09-07T08:36:00.001-05:00

Omni 41 Health & Fitness Connection's 30th Annual Pumpkin Prance 5K Run/Non-Competitive Walk is scheduled for Saturday, October 1. Applications are currently being accepted and are available at the club and also at omni41.com.

Download and print your application >>

The race/walk will start at 9 a.m. Race day registration will be held across the street from Omni 41 from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. The course is a flat 5k (3.1-mile) course through the Plum Creek Subdivision across the street from Omni 41, 221 US Hwy 41 in Schererville.

Prizes will be awarded to overall and master winners and top three male and female finishers in the different age divisions. Prize drawing for participants who come in costume. Tee-shirts and goodie bags are guaranteed for pre-registered participants only.

Pre-registration entry deadline is September 24. Entry fee for the race is $20, which includes apparel, or $15 fee if no apparel is desired. Participants under age 18 must have a parent present the day of the race to fill out and sign a liability waiver.

For more information on this event, please contact Lisa at Omni 41 at (219) 865-6969.

EMT Training Course to Begin in October

2011-09-06T08:18:00.001-05:00

Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Hammond Campus is offering registration for its next Emergency Medical Services Academy course that will begin in October.

During the six-month program, participants will be trained to become Indiana-certified Emergency Medical Technicians who then may apply for Illinois certification.

Applicants must be over the age of 18 and have a high school diploma or a GED and a valid driver’s license. Acceptance also is contingent upon the results of drug and tuberculosis testing.

Cost is $900, which includes books, polo shirt, CPR certification, blood pressure cuff, stethoscope and insurance.

To register, or for more information, contact Lauren Hansen, EMS coordinator, at (219) 932-2300, ext. 34530 (e-mail address: lauren.hansen@franciscanalliance.org); or contact Matt Eddy at (219) 805-9654.

Registration and course materials can be found at FranciscanStMargaret.org.

It's National Cholesterol Education Month - Know Your Numbers!

2011-09-01T10:08:00.000-05:00

Your body needs cholesterol to work well. But cholesterol levels that are too high can harm you. Extra cholesterol in your blood builds up inside the walls of your blood vessels. This buildup is called plaque. Plaque reduces, or even stops, the blood flow. This can cause a heart attack, stroke, or other serious heart disease. And this is why it is important to know your numbers and educate yourself on ways to help you control your cholesterol. After all, September is National Cholesterol Education Month!

Your Cholesterol Numbers

Cholesterol is measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Most people should have their blood cholesterol levels tested at least every 5 years once they reach ages 20 - 45. Have your cholesterol checked more often (probably every year) if you have:

Diabetes
Heart disease
Blood flow problems to your feet or legs
Had a stroke

A blood cholesterol test measures the level of total cholesterol. This includes both HDL ("good") cholesterol and LDL ("bad") cholesterol.

Your LDL level is what doctors watch most closely. You want it to be low. If it gets too high, you will need to treat it.

Treatment includes:

Eating a healthy diet that can lower your cholesterol
Losing weight (if you are overweight)
Exercising

You may also need medicine to lower your cholesterol.

If you have heart disease or diabetes, your LDL cholesterol should stay below 100 mg/dL.
If you are at risk for heart disease (even if you do not yet have any heart problems), your LDL cholesterol should be below 130 mg/dL.
Almost everyone else may get health benefits from LDL cholesterol that is lower than 160 to 190 mg/dL.

You want your HDL cholesterol to be high.

For men, it should be above 40 mg/dL.
For women, it should be above 50 mg/dL.
Exercise helps raise your HDL cholesterol.

It is still important to eat right, keep a healthy weight, and exercise even if:

You do not have heart disease or diabetes
Your cholesterol levels are in the normal range

Learn more about cholesterol, including lifestyle changes, by visiting our Online Health Library.

"Listen Up, Ladies!" Event in September - Recipe for Bone Health

2011-08-30T09:03:00.000-05:00

"Recipe for Healthy Bones"

Join Manmohan Singh, MD, for this educational presentation on bone health.

Healthcare professionals will be on-hand to answer questions. Also, free chair massages will be available (must call ahead to register).

Women of all ages are invited to participate in this free event.

Saturday, September 17, 2011
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Franciscan St. Margaret – Dyer Campus
24 Joliet St.
Dyer, Indiana

Doors open at 9 a.m. Educational presentation at 10 a.m.

For more information or to register, please call 800-931-3322.

From the CEO's Desk: "Advancement & Growth at Franciscan Alliance"

2011-08-29T16:13:00.003-05:00

Submitted by Gene Diamond, chief executive officer of Franciscan Alliance's Northern Indiana Region. This was also published in the 2011 Quality & Innovation special section of The Times of Northwest Indiana newspaper.

The hospitals that serve Franciscan Alliance's Northern Indiana Region continue to be at the forefront of innovation, not only in their nationally and locally recognized provision of health care, but in management and fiscal practices that help us operate efficiently – and lead to growth.

That growth is evident in our recent acquisitions of Calumet Surgery Center of Munster and Hammond Clinic's three area locations.

Our latest advances in care are numerous. Examples include:

Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Michigan City is scheduled to open a new, state-of-the-art Cancer Treatment Center next April. The 20,000-square-foot facility will combine the most advanced technologies. What's more, the hospital recently was recognized by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancerwith an Outstanding Achievement Award.
Franciscan St. Anthony Health will open a Chesterton Health and Emergency Center early next year that will include onsite laboratory, MRI and CT scans, primary care and 24-hour emergency coverage.
Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Crown Point recently opened a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Early next year, the hospital will open a 27,000-square-foot outpatient surgery center at its Franciscan Point health complex located along U.S. 231, near Interstate 65. In late fall, it is expected to open a revamped and relocated Radiology Oncology Department that will be the new home of a linear accelerator, which will make cancer treatment more efficient and effective.
Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer and Hammond just opened a Family Birthing Center at its Dyer Campus, in addition to the obstetrics unit at the Hammond Campus. It also offers what has been called the "quintessential" wound care center in the Chicago area – the Wound Healing and Prevention Institute. Its Bariatric Institute likewise offers unsurpassed care.
Franciscan Physicians Hospital in Munster is the first in Indiana to purchase the Trabectome minimally invasive glaucoma treatment program that provides better treatment through reduced risk and cost effectiveness. It likewise offers a new catheterization laboratory that provides the latest equipment for interventional cardiology and endovascular procedures.

Our advancements are made possible by employing the smartest and most efficient business practices, needed more than ever with the challenges brought by health care reforms that threaten the very existence of some hospitals.

Enter Lean and Six Sigma, a nationally recognized set of business and management practices we have followed since 2005 to help eliminate defects in processes and assure utmost efficiency. Our advancements are too numerous to list, but Dr. Paul Strange, Franciscan Alliance corporate vice president of quality, sums it up well: "Lean and Six Sigma models for process improvement and elimination of waste in health care mean improvements in the quality of our care, making our systems safer and cost effective."

Yes, the changes brought by latest health care reforms present the greatest challenges we have faced.

But our culture of care, advancement and working as efficiently as possible, will prove invaluable in weathering the storm.

Welcoming Our New Physician - Family Medicine

2011-08-29T09:45:00.000-05:00

Franciscan St. Margaret Health welcomes our new physician:

	Scott L. Martin, DO
	Board certified in Family Medicine. Fellowship trained in Osteopathic Sports Medicine. Specializing in Osteopathic Manipulation, Sports Medicine and Non-Surgical Orthopedics. "I treat patients holistically, with a focus on preventative medicine." Now accepting new patients. Same day appointments available. Lynwood Family Medicine 19400 North Creek Drive Lynwood, IL (708) 474-0410

Back-to-School Safety Tip: "Lighten that Backpack Load"

2011-08-25T09:57:00.001-05:00

It's back to school for most area kids. Did you know that children carrying overloaded and improperly worn backpacks are likely to experience neck, shoulder, and back pain?

Here are a few safety tips to help children "lighten the load":

Backpacks should weigh no more than 15% of a child's body weight.
Load heaviest items closest to the child's back.
Wear both shoulder straps and waist belt for an evenly balanced load. Straps should be well-padded and adjusted properly.
Check what your child carries to school and brings home to make sure the items are necessary for the day's activities.
If the backpack is too heavy, consider using a book bag on wheels.

Have a safe, enjoyable school year!

For more health and wellness information, visit our Online Health Center for Parents and Kids.

Mallwalkers Learn to Balance Aging with Strength, Control

2011-08-24T14:57:00.000-05:00

A healthy number of participants received lessons in balance and strength control, as they relate to the aging process, during the Aug. 24 Franciscanfit Mallwalkers program at Westfield Southlake Mall in Hobart.

Jane Bogordos, exercise physiologist at Omni 41 Health and Fitness Connection in Schererville, discussed the benefits of balance and core strength and led audience members in related exercises, including a number using a seated ball, during the program.

In case you missed it...here is a video recap:

Pulmonary function screenings were offered by Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Crown Point.

For more information, call (219) 931-3322.

Physician Sounds a Remedy for Sudden Deafness

2011-08-22T12:57:00.003-05:00

Victor Estrada displays his bone-anchored hearing device,
which was installed near his left ear.

Victor Estrada says he was fine when he went to bed on July 4 last year, but was deaf in his left ear when he awakened the next day. Noisy fireworks were not to blame.

"I couldn't believe it. I couldn't hear out of that ear; but was fine the day before," said Estrada, 33, of Hammond. "I didn't know what could have happened."

Dr. Shridar Ventrapragada, a staff physician at Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Hammond, recently helped restore Estrada's hearing, using a technique offered by no other surgeon in Lake County (according to the Cochlear Support Center website) – installation of a bone-anchored hearing device.

"It's not a well-known option, although it has been available for quite a while. A lot more people could be helped if they were aware it," he said, adding, "We need to better educate patients."

Ventrapragada, a medical doctor, is an ear, nose and throat specialist who is fellowship-trained in sinus surgery. He said he has installed approximately 10 of the devices in his six years in practice, the last two of which have been at Franciscan St. Margaret Health.

He said the cause of sudden hearing loss can be difficult to pin down.

"It can be a viral problem or a blood flow issue or a number of other things; we often aren't sure."

Possible other causes are tumors, trauma or malformations in the ear canal or inner ear.

"As a result, many patients don't get help and stay deaf in one ear because they are not made aware of this alternative," Ventrapragada said.

Bone-anchored hearing aids also can be used for patients who cannot accommodate hearing aids or who have chronic drainage.

The procedure involves installing an implanted abutment (base) in the skull near the affected ear. After it sets for about six weeks, a sound processor, which stimulates the skull and inner ear, ultimately bringing sound around to the healthy ear, is clipped into the base.

"When I woke up from surgery, I could hear everything; it was great," Estrada recalled.

Ventrapragada said the procedure also lessens awkward moments for patients.

"When people talk to you in your bad ear, not knowing you can’t hear, they often think you're ignoring them," he added.

For more information or to contact Ventrapragada, call (219) 852-1505.

Winfield McDonald's Makes Donation for Kids

2011-08-19T07:56:00.001-05:00

The Pediatric Rehabilitation Services of Franciscan St. Margaret at Omni 41 received a donation of 200-plus Happy Meal toys and 150 Beanie Babies on August 12 as part of their “Give a Smile” program created by Grant Lintner, assistant manager of the McDonald’s Winfield store.

Pictured from left to right: Grant Lintner, assistant store manager; Mary Lu Kot, physical therapist; Dave Blaski, occupational therapist; Sophia Reeves; America Garcia; Lorri Caruso, physical therapist; Steven Swatosh; Maggie Barajas; Sherri Modrak, owner of the McDonald’s Winfield and Modrak Operating Group; and Anita Dimitrov, McDonald’s shift manager.

Customers to the store are encouraged to donate new and unused Happy Meal toys to help “Give a Smile” to a child in need. The toys will be used for patients at the Pediatric Rehabilitation Services.

The McDonald’s Winfield store also donated 100-plus Beanie Babies to the St. Monica Home in Dyer, a medically sound and emotionally healthy environment for a pregnant teen to reside while waiting for her baby.

Next FranciscanFit Mallwalkers Program Set for Aug. 24

2011-08-18T15:33:00.001-05:00

"Balance and Strength As We Age" is the presentation topic for the next Franciscanfit -- Steps to Good Health monthly Mallwalkers program.

The free event, sponsored by Franciscan Alliance hospitals in northern Indiana and Westfield Southlake mall, is scheduled for 8 to 10 a.m. Aug. 24.

The public is invited to attend a 9 a.m. presentation of the program theme offered by Jane Bogordos, exercise physiologist at Omni 41 Health and Fitness Connection in Schererville. She will discuss the benefits of balance and core strength during the aging process.

Pulmonary function screenings will be offered by Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Crown Point.

New Mallwalkers members are welcome to register for the program, which takes place on the mall's lower level, outside of JC Penney, on the fourth Wednesday of each month. Regular walkers hours are 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 9 to 11 a.m. Sundays.

For more information, call (800) 931-3322.

Other Franciscan Alliance hospitals in northern Indiana include Franciscan Physicians Hospital in Munster, St. Margaret Health-Dyer and Hammond and St. Anthony Health-Michigan City.

Check Out our New Digital Magazine - Franciscan Focus

2011-08-17T16:41:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the inaugural issue of the Franciscan Focus magazine!

About the magazine
In this issue you will learn about the best and latest services offered at the Franciscan Alliance northern Indiana hospitals. You’ll also find information on events at our facilities as well as health advice from our very own experts.

About the digital edition
Each page is viewable in an interactive, user-friendly format. As you read through the magazine, just click on the arrows to turn the pages and while you are on a specific page, you can…

Print, bookmark, even make virtual notes on whatever strikes you. Just click on the Tools icon at the top.
Share a page or selection of pages with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, email and other social networks, using the Share icon.
Click on the links provided in articles to be taken directly to the corresponding website.

7 Tips to Get Kids to Eat Healthier

2011-08-12T12:46:00.003-05:00

Submitted by Lori Granich, RD, Clinical Dietitian at the Midwest Bariatric Institute

With school almost back in session, it is important for us to focus on nutrition for our children. From picky eaters to food allergies, there are numerous obstacles that get in the way of healthy eating. Here are some tips to help you avoid common mistakes and teach your kids healthy eating habits.

Be patient. Young children are not always willing to try new foods. Keep introducing the new food as it may take several offerings before the child wants to eat it.
Be a good role model. Eat with your child and let them help in preparation. If they help with the meal, they are more likely to want to eat it. Some activities your children can participate in are: wiping and setting the table, scoop or mash potatoes, peel fruits, help measure dry ingredients, and folding napkins.
Do not force your child to eat or offer food as bribes or rewards. When foods are used to reward kids, they may start using food to cope with stress or other emotions. Offer praise and attention instead of food treats.
Keep mealtime positive. Family meal time is a good time to teach appropriate dining behaviors that kids can use at restaurants like passing items, not talking with your mouth full and staying seated. You can remind them not to break rules, but keep tension down and save discipline for another time.
Focus on each other and not the food. Let children take responsibility in plating their food. Allow children to eat until they are full. Try not to force the “one last bite” or clean plate method.
Have family meals. Studies show that children who eat away from the table are less likely to choose nutritious foods and are more likely to do poorly in school.
Don’t forget to plan snacks. Snacks are an important part of a child’s diet. Plan for your child to have two snacks a day. Make them healthful by including two food groups. An example would be low fat milk and chunks of banana.

There are also various school nutrition programs that are available. For more information, check out a great resource at http://www.fns.usda.gov/cnd/

Healthy Grocery Shopping

2011-08-10T09:19:00.001-05:00

A key step for losing weight, keeping the weight off, and staying healthy is learning how to buy the right foods at the store.

Smart shopping
Avoid buying foods in bulk and shopping in warehouse-type stores if you can. Getting a good deal can lead to overeating. If you do buy large amounts of a food, divide it into smaller portion sizes and store what you will not use right away.

Know how to read food labels
Learn how to read the Nutrition Facts labels on food packages.

Know what the serving size is and the amount of calories, fat, protein, and carbohydrates per serving.

Learn how to tell the difference between foods that are truly organic. Two words on labels that can be misleading are "natural" and "pure." See also: Reading food labels

Plan ahead
Before you buy food for the week, think about your schedule:

When and where you will be eating over the next week?
How much time will you have to cook?

Then, plan your meals before you shop. This can keep you from buying whatever foods look good to you, whether or not they are healthy.

Make a shopping list. Remember to take it with you, and promise yourself you will not buy things that are not on it.

Never go food shopping when you are hungry. You will make better choices if you shop after you have had a healthy meal or snack.

Be sure to check out the Midwest Bariatric Institutes's Weight Loss Health Guide for more information, resources, health and behavior assessments and other tools to help you learn more about how to lose and keep off excess weight.

Next EMS Academy Course Begins in October - Register Today!

2011-08-09T14:04:00.003-05:00

The Franciscan St. Margaret Health EMS Academy is a specialized program providing quality training for those interested in becoming a state certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).

Next course begins in October 2011.

Open Registration

Sessions are held in the Mother Maria Theresa Conference Room on the ground floor of the Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Hammond Campus, 5454 Hohman Avenue, Hammond.

Sept. 9, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Sept. 15, 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.

The demand for such training is higher than ever due to the exciting and challenging nature of prehospital emergency medicine. With a completion time of six months, the EMT certification opens many doors to new job opportunities and may also be the stepping stone to a very successful career. Located by the state line, Franciscan St. Margaret Health EMS Academy caters to both Indiana and Illinois residents and will assist students in acquiring certifications in either state.

Anyone over the age of 18 with a high school diploma or a GED and a valid driver’s license may apply. Acceptance into the program is also contingent upon a negative drug and Tuberculosis test.

Job opportunities requiring an EMT certification:

Firefighter
Police Officer
Industrial Plant Protection (BP Aamco, Mittal Steel, etc.)
Organ/Tissue procurement (Indiana Lions Eye and Tissue Transplant Bank)
Private Ambulance Services
Emergency Room Technician
Home Health Care
Prerequisite for the Paramedic Program

For course resources, including requirement checklist, application and syllabus, visit FranciscanStMargaret.org.

For more information, call Lauren Hansen, RN, EMS Coordinator, at (219) 932-2300, ext. 34530 or by e-mail at lauren.hansen@franciscanalliance.org.

Family Birthing Center Welcomes First New Addition

2011-08-05T14:22:00.001-05:00

Salah Aldin Benwanes weighed in at 7 pounds, 4 ounces at 3:13 p.m. Aug. 3 as the first child born in the new Family Birthing Center at Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer.

He is shown Aug. 5 with his father, Mohammed Benwanes, who said it felt "great" to be a first-time parent, along with his wife, Salma Mardi, who was unable to participate in the photo. Mother, father and child were expected to leave for their Merrillville home that day.

In honor of being the first baby born in the center, Salah Aldin, who was born at a length of 19 ½ inches, was given a large, blue, stuffed bear toy to take home, along with other goodies.

The center, which opened Aug. 1, contains five labor and delivery suites, 10 private, mother-baby rooms, well-baby and special care nurseries, two operating rooms and a two-bay recovery room. It offers 24-hour neonatologist coverage, provided by an experienced staff.

The center is located on the hospital's fourth floor at 24 Joliet St. (U.S. 30). For more information or to schedule a tour, call (800) 931-3322.

Senior Day at the Lake County Fair

2011-08-04T16:11:00.002-05:00

Franciscan Alliance is a proud sponsor of Senior Citizens Day at the Lake County Fair, Lake County Fairgrounds in Crown Point.

Join us in the Seniors Tent on Monday, August 8, 9 a.m. to noon, for free health screenings and information including:

Blood Glucose Testing/Finger Sticks (no fasting required)
Blood Oxygen Checks
Blood Pressure Testing
Body Fat Analysis
Nutrition Information
Pulmonary Function Screening
Senior Services/SHIIP
Stroke Information
Wound, Ostomy, Continence Information

Also, in the Showcase Tent, come and check out these events:

9 a.m.: Goldtones
11 a.m.: Apple Peeling Contest
12 noon: Ladies' Red Hat Contest
7 p.m.: Charlie Blum and Friends (Showtunes and Classics)

Hope to see you at the Fair!

Weight Loss Quick Tip: Dining Out

2011-08-02T13:04:00.001-05:00

Dining out is part of our busy lives. Even though you need to be careful when you eat out, you can enjoy yourself and stay healthy.

If you know how to pick the right foods, you can go to almost any type of restaurant. Be aware that the portion sizes at many restaurants are very large.

Try to avoid fast-food restaurants. If you must eat fast food, try these tips to limit calories:

Choose a place that broils or grills hamburgers, fish, and chicken for their sandwiches.
Order only a sandwich. Avoid ordering the “value” or “combo” meal.
Whether you have a sandwich, milkshake, or French fries, do not order large sizes.
Order a salad instead of French fries.
Pizza is okay, but limit yourself to only 1 or 2 slices. Replace some of the cheese with extra sauce or vegetables. Add a salad to your meal to help fill you up.

Be sure to check out our Weight Loss Health Guide @ FranciscanStMargaret.org/weightloss for more information, resources and tools to help you learn more about how to lose and keep off excess weight.

Free Weight Loss Seminars Offered Across Region

2011-07-29T14:37:00.003-05:00

Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer, 24 Joliet St. (U.S. 30), in the Reginald Board Room): 6 p.m. Aug. 17; 1 p.m. Sept. 18, Oct. 16, Nov. 13 and Dec. 11.
Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Crown Point, Marian Education Center, Room B, 1201 S. Main St.: 6 p.m. Aug. 3, Oct 5 and Dec. 7; 1 p.m. Sept. 11 and Nov. 6.
Franciscan St. Anthony Health, Michigan City, 301 W. Homer St., St. Francis Hall: 6 p.m. Aug. 10, Sept. 28 and Nov. 9; 1 p.m. Oct. 23 and Dec. 11.

Call the Midwest Bariatric Institute at (219) 852-2518 to register. Visit Midwest Bariatric Institute online @ franciscanstmargaret.org/weightloss and follow MBI on Twitter.

Video: Family Birthing Center - Blessing and Dedication

2011-07-29T10:55:00.001-05:00

On July 28, 2011, Franciscan St. Margaret Health's Dyer Campus hosted a Blessing & Dedication ceremony for the new Family Birthing Center.

The 15-bed obstetrics unit, which includes plans for a special care nursery, is an addition to a four-bed unit that will remain at the Hammond Campus.

The new center offers private rooms that are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to provide for a safe and healthy environment. It will be staffed by board-certified physicians and experienced nurses.

Check out photos from the event on Facebook!

Be sure to stop by on Sunday, July 31, from 1 - 3 p.m., for a tour during our public open house.

For more information or to schedule a tour at a later date, call the Health Resource Center at (800) 931-3322. The center is located on the fourth floor of the Dyer Campus, located at 24 Joliet St.

New IT Service Expedites, Expands Patient Care Services

2011-07-27T14:12:00.001-05:00

Northern Indiana Region clinics, hospitals, implementing EpicCare

Franciscan Alliance Northern Indiana Region physician clinics are offering new EpicCare information technology that streamlines patient care and administrative services.

EpicCare has been implemented in Franciscan Physician Network's 12 clinics, which are part of Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Crown Point.

The eight HealthPartners locations in the Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Michigan City network also are online, as are the 17 clinics in the Medical Associates group affiliated with Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer and Hammond.

On the heels of the clinics, the hospitals' acute care programs are being phased in at the aforementioned hospital campuses this year in order top achieve an integrated health records system that is known as OneChart.

EpicCare, which offers comprehensive, integrated software to support patient care functions, is provided by Wisconsin-based Epic Systems Corp.

"Epic's integrated suite of health care applications supports a large number of patient care functions," said Gene Diamond, Northern Indiana Region CEO. "Working closely with the Epic team, our employees and physicians are happy to bring this top-ranked system to Northwest Indiana where all of our patients will benefit from the enhanced coordination of care it will enable us to provide."

Patients also are able to access their medical records free of charge from physician offices through Epic's MyChart system, which also provides reference materials to help them understand their conditions and to answer questions. The system likewise allows patients to request or schedule physician appointments.

MyChart is available for Franciscan St. Margaret Health patients and is scheduled to be online soon for Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Crown Point, with implementation scheduled late this year at Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Michigan City.

Listen Up, Ladies! - Next Program Set for August 20

2011-07-27T08:41:00.001-05:00

"What is Lupus?"

Get answers to all your questions about lupus at this informative program presented by Phyllis Simko, volunteer with the Lupus Foundation, Indiana Chapter.

Healthcare professionals will be on-hand to answer questions. Also, free chair massages will be available (must call ahead to register).

Women of all ages are invited to participate in this free event.

Saturday, August 20, 2011
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Franciscan St. Margaret – Dyer Campus
24 Joliet St.
Dyer, Indiana

Doors open at 9 a.m. Educational presentation at 10 a.m.

For more information or to register, please call 800-931-3322.

Next Mallwalkers Program Set for July 27

2011-07-25T08:54:00.001-05:00

"Take Charge of Your Health" will be the presentation topic for the next Franciscanfit -- Steps to Good Health monthly Mallwalkers program.

The free program, sponsored by Franciscan Alliance hospitals in northern Indiana and Westfield Southlake mall, is scheduled for 8 to 10 a.m., July 27.

The public is invited to attend a 9 a.m. presentation of the program theme offered by Jean Kim, M.D., an endocrinologist at the Franciscan Hammond Clinc. Dr. Kim will discuss diabetes, osteoporosis and bone disease.

Glucose and blood pressure screenings also will be provided by the nursing staff of the Franciscan Hammond Clinic.

New Mallwalkers members are welcome to register for the program, which takes place on the mall’s lower level, outside of JC Penney, on the fourth Wednesday of each month.

Regular walkers hours are 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., Mondays through Saturdays, and 9 to 11 a.m., Sundays.

For more information, call (800) 931-3322.

Franciscan Alliance hospitals in northern Indiana include Franciscan Physicians Hospital LLC in Munster, St. Margaret Health-Dyer and Hammond, St. Anthony Health-Michigan City and St. Anthony Health-Crown Point.

Free Foot Exams Available in Hammond and Dyer

2011-07-21T15:20:00.001-05:00

Free foot screenings are available by appointment at Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer and Hammond Wound Healing and Prevention institutes.

The Dyer Campus, 24 Joliet St. (U.S. 30), offers the service on Wednesdays; the Hammond Campus, 5454 Hohman Ave., on Mondays and Fridays.

Diabetes patients are encouraged to get screenings on a regular basis, as are people who may be experiencing such conditions as pain, numbness, growths, deformities, wounds, fungus or ingrown toe nails.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (219) 933-2666.

Open House Set for New Family Birthing Center in Dyer

2011-07-19T13:21:00.001-05:00

Franciscan St. Margaret Health's Dyer Campus will have a public open house for a new Family Birthing Center from 1 to 3 p.m., July 31.

The 15-bed obstetrics unit, which includes plans for a special care nursery, is an addition to a four-bed unit that will remain at the Hammond Campus.

The new center offers private rooms that are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to provide for a safe and healthy environment. It will be staffed by board-certified physicians and experienced nurses.

Tours, refreshments, giveaways and raffle prizes will be available.

For more information or to schedule a tour at a later date, call the Health Resource Center at (800) 931-3322. The center is located on the fourth floor of the Dyer Campus, located at 24 Joliet St.

We Are Proud of Our July MVPs!

2011-07-18T10:43:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to the following employees who have been chosen as MVPs by their peers:

Joan Myers

Dyer: Joan Myers, Transcription

Joan’s nominator said: "She goes above and beyond with every task she performs. She is always so positive and pleasant. She always smiles and is awesome to work with."

Hammond: Craig Clark, Transporter

Craig’s nominator said: "Craig is very caring when transferring patients, especially the very elderly. He is very gentle and caring, talking kindly to them."

Craig Clark

Omni 41: Melissa Hinshaw

Melissa’s nominator said: "She has been at Omni for 6 months, but she has already made an impression with our members and staff because she is friendly and always willing to help."

Quarterly winner: Joseph Stelmaszek, Dietary

Joseph’s nominator said: "He is very helpful, a joy to work with, and we are so glad he is back for the summer."

Melissa Hinshaw

Joseph Stelmaszek

Start Your Day Off Right - The Importance of Breakfast

2011-07-15T15:34:00.001-05:00

Submitted by Lori Granich, RD, Clinical Dietitian at the Midwest Bariatric Institute

Breakfast as its name implies means to "break the fast." You have gone all night without eating and need to fuel your engine. Studies show that people who eat breakfast tend to have healthier body weights than those who skip. Breakfast is one of the most important meals of the day and yet is the meal most likely to be skipped. Some reasons for skipping breakfast are: "I do not have enough time to eat in the morning," "I'm trying to lose weight" or "I have no appetite in the morning."

There are numerous benefits related to consuming breakfast. The first benefit is that breakfast eaters are typically overall healthier. They are more likely to meet the nutritional requirements especially for Vitamins A, C, iron, zinc, calcium and fiber. When you skip breakfast, you’ll tend to either snack on high fat, low nutrient foods or overeat when lunch rolls around. According to the National Weight Control Registry, 78% of people who lose weight and keep it off eat breakfast everyday. Breakfast eaters are also proven to have greater attention span and improved concentration making it a vital start to each day for school aged children.

Breakfast does not have to be extravagant by any means. Ready-to-eat cereals are fortified with B-vitamins and minerals that are essential for healthy growth. Choosing a whole grain cereal, bagel or toast is a great way to start your day off with some fiber. Ideally, a healthy breakfast includes food from a variety of groups such as fruit, whole grains and low fat dairy. To start your day off on the right foot, try some of these ideas for breakfast: Oatmeal, fruit and yogurt smoothie, whole wheat English muffin and peanut butter, whole grain ready-to-eat cereal or breakfast quesadilla made with eggs and low fat cheese.

Radiology Groups Merge to Improve Services

2011-07-14T09:50:00.001-05:00

Effective Aug. 1, Imaging Associates of Indiana (IAI) will provide radiology services for Franciscan Alliance Northern Indiana Region hospitals.

IAI represents a merger of three radiology groups currently serving Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Michigan City, Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer and Hammond and Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Crown Point.

The merger forms a larger radiology group of greater capability that will serve those hospitals and associated services, as well as Franciscan Physicians Hospital in Munster.

"The agreement came about due to the need to grow our radiology groups in order to offer greater radiology specialty services and to provide an improved platform upon which to recruit new radiologists as the need arises," said James Callaghan, M.D., president of Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Michigan City, who was instrumental in forging the agreement, along with staff physician Richard Dobben, MD.

"They also benefit from the Picture Archiving and Communications System in which radiologists from one of our hospitals are able to read images from our other hospitals."

IAI will provide 24-hour, seven-day-per-week coverage. Its Picture Archiving and Communications System is expected to allow reading of imaging studies across hospital lines effective in mid to late September.

Is Working with a Personal Trainer Right for You?

2011-07-13T10:03:00.000-05:00

Submitted by Deb Battreall, personal trainer at Omni 41 Health & Fitness Connection

The benefits of working with a personal trainer are to help people make lifestyle changes for those who can't achieve success by themselves. Personal trainers are used by people of all ages and fitness levels. Here are some reasons a trainer might be right for you:

Improve your overall fitness. Reduce the risk of heart disease, gain strength, flexibility, endurance, posture, balance and coordination.
Lose body fat.
Increase bone density.
Movtivation. Help overcome your biggest obstacles to exercise.
Workout safely. Having the proper form and technique is extremely important.
Getting the most out of your workout. Maximum results in minimum time by creating a specific exercise routine just for you.
Break through plateaus. If you are stuck in the same routine, a trainer will jump start, not only your motivation, but your routine as well!

What could be better than making a commitment to meet with someone regularly who will provide you with individualized attention and support? If you are interested in working with a personal trainer, Omni 41 is here to help you achieve your fitness goals. Give us a call at (219) 865-6969 today!

Find Us on Facebook!

2011-07-12T08:51:00.001-05:00

You can now stay connected with all the northern Indiana hospitals of Franciscan Alliance on Facebook!

As a fan, you will receive the latest hospital news, breaking health news, videos, service line promotions, events and regular updates from St. Anthony Health in Crown Point and Michigan City, St. Margaret Health in Hammond and Dyer and Franciscan Physicians Hospital in Munster.

Our Facebook page also integrates links to A.D.A.M. Health Resources, Twitter updates and our latest Blog entries.

We want this to be an engaging source for sharing information and conversing with the communities we serve as we continue to strive to provide the best overall care to our patients and their families.

"Like" us today @ facebook.com/FranciscanNWI!

And remember…you can also connect with us via Twitter (@FranciscanNWI) and YouTube (youtube.com/FranciscanNWI).

Medical Technology Graduates Celebrate Job Well Done

2011-07-11T09:48:00.001-05:00

Franciscan St. Margaret Health, in conjunction with Alverno Clinical Labs, graduated its 39th class of Medical Technology students on June 24. The graduation ceremony included a dinner and presentation for the graduates, their families and members of the laboratory team that were instrumental in teaching the students all year.

The Medical Technology graduates are (from left to right): Aliciavidal Ruiz, Carrie Szablowski, Sarah Roys, Lyndi Fekete, Tim Andretich and Amber Vallera.

These six students completed a very intense and vigorous year of training that included both clinical and didactic components, and they are now eligible to sit for the American Society of Clinical Pathology Board certification exam. They are trained in all areas of the laboratory, including Microbiology, Hematology, Chemistry, Blood Bank, Urinalysis and Body Fluids and Molecular Biology. In order to be eligible for the internship program, students must have already completed their BS degree in biology or be in their fourth year of study and have the internship count towards earning their degree.

Alverno Clinical Labs did hire five of the six graduates; the sixth student procured a job in her home state of California.

The Medical Technology program has been in place since 1971 and has graduated more than 200 medical technologists. It has been a very successful program with a pass rate on the national board exam of approximately 96 percent. Over the past number of years, Alverno has been committed to hiring all graduates of the programs and these students have gone on to be very successful medical technologists, supervisors, managers and other leaders in the health care field.

WorkingWell Offers Heart Health Screening for Women

2011-07-05T14:08:00.003-05:00

Heart disease, often thought of as a man's problem, is the number one killer of women. In fact, more women die of heart disease than the next four causes of death combined, including all forms of cancer.

WorkingWell wants women to get smart about their heart health today!

Risk Factors
Many heart disease risk factors can be controlled by making changes in your lifestyle and, in some cases, by taking medications. Risk factors include:

Existing coronary heart disease (heart attack, bypass surgery, heart stents)
Stroke or carotid artery disease
Blocked arteries in your legs
Abdominal aortic aneurysm
Chronic kidney disease
Diabetes
Cigarette smoking
Poor diet
Lack of regular exercise
Overweight
Family history of heart or vascular disease
High blood pressure
Abnormal cholesterol levels

The Women's Cardiovascular Health Screening program at WorkingWell makes it easier than ever to know your risk. Screenings include:

Lipid Profile blood draw**
FBS (fasting blood sugar blood draw)**
Blood Pressure Check
BMI (Body Mass Index measurement

Cost is $25 (fee must be paid in cash or credit at time of screening). For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 866-552-WELL (9355).

**Requires fasting 8-10 hours prior to lab draw.

Slam Dunk for Diabetes Camp Scores at Omni

2011-06-27T14:26:00.001-05:00

About 50 participants were on hand June 27 when the three-day Moses E. Cheeks Slam Dunk for Diabetes Basketball Camp kicked off at Omni Health and Fitness Connection, 221 U.S. 41.

The free program, which includes coaches from the Chicago Bulls Training Academy, is offered for children and young adults, aged 5 to 18, who have diabetes. Diabetes educators Diana Riley and Bridgette Koselke, from Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Michigan City, and Dorothy Klapak, from Franciscan St. Anthony Health Dyer, were among those on hand. Omni is under the auspices of Franciscan St. Margaret Health.

The camps, which began in 2005, teach fundamentals of living with diabetes and offer a place where participants gain confidence in a safe, structured and supportive atmosphere, according to camp website. The program is designed to teach participants the relationship between food, exercise and insulin, as well as basketball skills. It also is designed to teach campers how sports, illnesses and stress affect blood sugar levels, how to make corrections to insulin intake and to demonstrate that diabetes need not prevent one from living a full, active and productive life.

For more information on the program, contact Monica Joyce, camp director, at (773) 636-3353 or send e-mail to jiemjoyce@msn.com.

The late Cheeks was the father of Maurice Cheeks, who was a National Basketball Association coach. Moses Cheeks, who had pancreatic cancer and Type 1 diabetes, was a basketball enthusiast who was instrumental in planning the camp.

Listen Up, Ladies!...Next Program is July 16

2011-06-23T12:41:00.000-05:00

“The Facts on Peripheral Vascular Disease”

Join cardiologist Michael Nicholas, D.O., for this informative discussion on peripheral vascular disease (PVD) - a narrowing of the arteries leading to the legs and feet, which can injure nerves and other tissues.

PVD screenings are available by appointment. Healthcare professionals will be available to answer questions.

Women of all ages are invited to participate in this free event.

Saturday, July 16, 2011
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Franciscan St. Margaret – Dyer Campus
24 Joliet St.
Dyer, Indiana

Doors open at 9 a.m. Educational presentation at 10 a.m.

For more information or to register, please call 800-931-3322.

Midwest Bariatric Institute Introduces "Back on Track"

2011-06-22T13:04:00.000-05:00

The Midwest Bariatric Institute at St. Margaret Health is starting a 6-week course designed to assist those dealing with the "pain of regain" or weight loss plateaus.

The sessions will be held on Tuesday evenings beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the Blessed Mother Conference Room on the Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Dyer Campus, 24 Joliet St. in Dyer. Each meeting will last approximately one to one-and-a-half hours. The first session begins July 12 and runs through August 23. The second session begins October 11 and runs through November 22.

For more information, including pricing, please call (219) 852-2518.

Bike Smart...It Makes for a Fun Ride!

2011-06-13T09:17:00.000-05:00

Riding a bike is an excellent way to get fit and can be fun for children and adults. But accidents do happen. Each year, more than a half-million people in the U.S. are treated in emergency rooms for bike-related injuries. So before taking that two-wheeler out for a spin, take a few minutes to brush up on some tips to help you enjoy a safe, healthy ride.

Wear a bike helmet.
Make sure bikes are the right size. A child should be able to straddle a bike with both feet on the ground.
Young children should use bikes with coaster brakes -- the kind that brake when you pedal backwards. With hand brakes, a child's hands should be large enough and strong enough to use the levers.
Avoid riding at night if at all possible. Make sure your bike has reflectors.
Stop at stop signs, check for traffic before turning, and never ride out into a street without stopping first.
Ride on the same side of the road as the cars.
Be predictable and ride defensively. Ride where drivers of cars can see you. Bicycles are frequently hit by cars because the driver did not even know the bike was there. Many accidents have been avoided because the biker was watching out for cars.
Wear brightly colored clothing so that motorists can easily see you.

For more health and safety tips, visit our online Health Library at www.smmhc.com.

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