The Center Window- Summer Issue 2014

T H E C E N T E R

SUMMER 2014

Women Choose Pearlman For More Reasons Than Ever!

2014Women’s Choice Award

America’s Best HospitalsCancer Care

SUMMER2014CONTENTS

04 CEO’S CORNER Don’t Underestimate a Woman’s Opinion 05 WELLNESS Keeping Families Safe from Burns

06 BENEFIT REPORT 2013 Report to the Community

08 NEW PHYSICIANS 09 CAR SEAT SAFETY Most Adults Use Child Safety Seats Incorrectly... Do You?

10 FOUNDATION DONOR REPORT

12 EMPOWERMENT Top 10 Foods to Help You Live Longer 14 HOSPICE DONOR REPORT 15 MY HEALTH SGMC Are You Registered?

16 FOCUS Pearlman Cancer Center - One of America’s Best Hospitals for Cancer Care

19 TESTIMONIAL Ami Guilliams- Breast Cancer Survivor 20 SYSTEM NEWS Transfer of Ownership Strengthens Rural Facilities

22 MEDICAL NEWS Critical Care Nursing 24 WELLNESS Mental Health Issues in the Elderly

26 DO YOU KNOW SEPSIS? SGMC Raises Awareness of America’s Number One Killer 27 YES YOU CAN DROWN... While Not in Water

28 NEW LEADERSHIP

30 WORDS OF FAITH Decisions

31 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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09

20 24

05

12

19

22 27

Seated left to right: Medical Oncologist Jennifer Dallas, MD; Radiation Oncologist John Devine, MD; Medical Oncologist Eric Anderson; and Medical Oncologist Samuel Ofori, MD

T H E C E N T E R

SUMMER 2014

Women Choose Pearlman For More Reasons Than Ever!

2014Women’s Choice AwardAmerica’s Best HospitalsCancer Care

Pearlman affiliated physicians and staff are surrounded by female supporters of the

2014 Women’s Choice Award.

ON THE COVER

EDITOR’SNOTE

summer 2014 | center window magazine | 3

In the six months since the last printing of The Center Window, much has happened. The four hospital system integration project has been completed and the work to strengthen and grow the SGMC brand is underway. SGMC is working on new business development strategies and very optimistic about the future.

Last year, SGMC received a record number of awards and recognition from state, regional and national sources. This year, the trend continues. In our focus story, I am proud to announce that the Pearlman Comprehensive Cancer Center at SGMC has earned the 2014 Women’s Choice Award for Cancer Care. This award ranks Pearlman among the top cancer centers in the US and is based on robust criteria involving patient satisfaction, clinical excellence and those small details that demonstrate what women really want in a quality cancer treatment experience. Inside, you’ll find information on the award and a patient testimonial that sums up services in a nutshell.

Another award winning area in our hospital is Critical Care. Until you or a loved one is in critical condition, the public has no idea of the complexities, technology and training this service line entails. In the article entitled Critical Care Nursing…Delivering the Highest Levels of Care you will get a better understanding of how it all works.

Also in this edition, you will find information from the 2013 Community Benefit Report. This information provides a broad overview of health and wellness activities, and technological and infrastructure improvements. With summer cookouts, fireworks, bonfires, etc., we also provide information on the JMS Burn Clinic at the SGMC Smith Northview Campus. Dr. Joel Morgan addresses the topic of mental health issues in the elderly and explains the benefits of the SGMC Dogwood Senior Health Center at the SGMC Berrien Campus.

Thanks for reading The Center Window. If you want to receive other news and information from SGMC, email me ([email protected]) and ask to be placed on the distribution list for our E-Newsletter or you can always follow us online at www.sgmc.org or on Facebook at SGMCValdosta.

With warm regards,

Laura Love Community Relations Director

windowVol. 27, No. 1

The Center Window is published for the staff, patients and friends of South Georgia Medical Center and its affiliates. It is a function of the Business Development and Marketing Division of SGMC. The opinions are those of the writers. Editorial content is not intended as medical advice and the editor disclaims any liability for use of medical information.

Caila AndersonADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT/MARKETING

Laura O. LoveEDITOR

COMMUNITY RELATIONS DIRECTOR

Erika BennettSENIOR COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST

Meghan SchunhoffMASS MEDIA SPECIALIST

William S. CowartCHAIRMAN

HOSPITAL AUTHORITY

Randy SaulsCHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Brian C. Griner, MDCHIEF-OF-MEDICAL STAFF

Javon LongieliereErika Bennett

Meghan SchunhoffPHOTO CREDITS

THE CENTER

CEO’SCORNER


As a healthcare administrator, father and husband, I understand the importance of women in healthcare decision making. From selecting their child’s pediatrician, to an acne-prone teenager’s dermatologist, to

going online to weigh the pros and cons of various health insurance products, women make the primary healthcare decisions in 90 percent of American households. Women also account for 80 cents out of every dollar spent in drug stores.

In this edition of The Center Window, the Pearlman Cancer Center is recognized by the Women’s Choice Award as one of an elite group of 337 hospitals nationwide that earned the distinction as one of America’s Best Hospitals for Cancer Care. The award is based on a national survey of patient satisfaction data, as well as clinical

Randy Sauls, CEO

benchmarks on cancer quality (core measures) and other designations. As more and more women self-manage their cancer care and that of their loved ones, they are seeking providers that recognize their needs and provide competence, confidence and trust.

Pearlman is one of two hospitals in all of Georgia to carry the Women’s Choice Seal. Although this award is given by women, it corroborates the high-quality, compassionate care provided by the affiliated physicians and staff to all cancer patients. For the past several years, SGMC, its campuses and affiliates have undertaken important patient satisfaction and quality initiatives. Because consumers have choices, it is more important than ever to provide the best patient care experience possible. SGMC considers it a privilege to care for you and your family. Receiving yet another national recognition is a source of pride for our organization and it pushes us to achieve even higher goals. Thank you for making SGMC the region’s premier health system and destination for health care.

Don’t Underestimate a Woman’s Opinion



Summer is a time for fresh picked peaches, corn on the cob, soft-serve vanilla ice cream, beach trips,

swimming pools, barbecues and fireworks. Many activities in the summer months may cause someone to have a burn injury. Each year nearly 450,000 Americans receive treatment for burn injuries.

A burn is damage to different layers of the skin and the structures within the skin. Heat produced from the fire or heat source and the amount of time the skin is exposed to the heat is what damages the skin. The seriousness of the burn is described as first, second, and third degree burns.


WELLNESS

Eric Newman, Physician Assistant with Joseph M. Still Burn Centers, offers several important tips for keeping you and your family from getting burns during the summer.

Never leave hot grease or oil on a stove unattended.

When grilling out, make sure you do not use an excessive amount of lighter fluid when starting a charcoal fire. Never use gas or any other accelerant other than lighter fluid on a grill.

When you are at the beach, boating on the lake or swimming make sure to wear sunscreen. Dermatologists recommend a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 35 or higher. Frequency of application with sunscreen is key. Read the label!

Children should not handle or play with fireworks. If using fireworks, an adult needs to create a safe zone where the fireworks will be lit and not allow children or any other adult to get close to the safe zone.

“Common sense is a big thing when it comes to injury prevention with any type of combustible,” says Newman.

Joseph M. Still Burn Centers, headquartered in Augusta, GA, holds a satellite clinic at Smith Northview Hospital, a campus of South Georgia Medical Center, each Wednesday.

According to Newman, the clinic treats between 40 and 60 patients weekly. Clinic affiliated physicians and staff treat a variety of burns ranging from minor to moderate burns in both children and adults.

Keeping Families Safe from Burns

By: Meghan Schunhoff

Individuals with problem burns may contact the clinic at Smith Northview by calling the Joseph M. Still Burn Center (toll-free) at 877-863-9595 for

more information. To view a video, visit www.sgmc.org/media

South Georgia Medical Center and its Smith Northview Campus exist to serve people, improve healthcare delivery systems, work with others to improve the health of the people in the communities served and

participate in making the community a better place in which to live.

In keeping with that mission, SGMC continues to grow with the patient in mind, caring for more than 300,000 patients last year. Organizational growth was supported by the biggest capital expansion project in the hospital’s 58 year history, investments in new technologies to communicate better with physicians and patients, and recognition for quality achievements across service lines.

The organization provides numerous outreach initiatives and educational programs to strategically address community health needs. Not only do these activities directly benefit program participants, they foster collaboration and assist the strategies of community partners who come together to accomplish remarkable objectives.

Below, you will find highlights of SGMC’s commitment to quality care and contributions to the community in FY2013. For the full report or more information, visit www.sgmc.org/communityoutreach.

Indigent/Charity Care/Unpaid Cost of Medicaid/Unpaid Cost of Medicare/Bad Debt $52,812,981As a not-for-profit community hospital, SGMC provides free and reduced-cost services to individuals who qualify. Helping to partially fund the cost of those services is the State of Georgia’s Indigent Care Trust Fund, established with federal and state matching dollars. Individuals benefiting from this fund can be working but uninsured or underinsured, unemployed, homeless, have experienced a catastrophic illness or the cost of care exceeds their ability to pay.


BENEFITREPORT

2013 Report to the CommunityBy: Erika Bennett Community Relations


Community Building & Health Improvement $770,040SGMC is a leader in providing community health benefits, partnering with dozens of organizations to support and assist initiatives that improve the health, well-being and lives of community members. SGMC promotes health and wellness through health education programs, free health screenings, health fairs and support groups.

Health Professions Education and Recruitment $805,509SGMC made significant commitments of time and resources to ensure future healthcare workers receive necessary education and training. To accomplish this in 2013, SGMC supported scholarships, internships, clinical rotations, and preceptorships for 527 students across 15 schools and 24 programs of study.

Investments in Technology and Facilities$59,693,000 SGMC has taken advantage of lower interest rates and construction costs to improve infrastructure. Construction projects included completion of the Dasher Memorial Heart Center, build out of a new energy plant which provides emergency power for the new tower, and upgrades to the elevators in the main hospital.

Financial and In-kind Contributions $200,112SGMC sponsored various organizations such as American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, Alzheimer’s Association, and March of Dimes. SGMC is also instrumental in supporting the Partnership Health Center, a free clinic for the community’s working uninsured.

8 | center window magazine | winter 2013

NEWPHYSICIANS

JASON R. MALLIN, MDNEUROLOGYThe Medical Staff of South Georgia Medical Center welcomes Jason R. Mallin, MD as a hospital-based neurologist. Dr. Mallin comes to Valdosta from New York where he worked as a neurologist at New York Neurological Associates. In Valdosta, Dr. Mallin joins SGMC’s thriving Stroke Program that functions under the leadership of Neurohospitalist Brian Dawson, MD.

“I am very impressed by the successes here,” Dr. Mallin explained. “Dr. Dawson and his team introduced standardization of stroke care and many people are benefiting from their work. I am proud to come into an established program where people care so much.”

The subspecialty of neurology is a second medical career for Dr. Mallin. He spent several years as an Internal Medicine Hospitalist working in South Carolina and Maine before he went into neurology. He says internal medicine gave him a different perspective on stroke care because great differences have taken place between then and now.

Dr. Mallin’s preference for the warm Southern climate and the chance to work with an outstanding Stroke Program are two reasons why he moved to Valdosta. Dr. Dawson and Dr. Mallin will work alternating weeks to provide in-hospital neurology services. ❧

GLENN R. VALLADARES, MD, MBA, FACEPEMERGENCY MEDICINE

The Medical Staff of South Georgia Medical Center welcomes Glenn Valladares, MD as the new medical director of the Emergency Department. Dr. Valladares comes to Valdosta from New York State where he served as an attending physician and Associate Director of the Emergency Department at the Brookdale University Hospital in Brooklyn, NY. Locally, Dr. Valladares will provide clinical oversight of the daily functions of the emergency departments at the SGMC Main Campus and SMITH Northview Campus.

Dr. Valladares is certified by the American Board of Emergency Medicine and is a Fellow of the American College of Emergency Physicians.

After fifteen years of Urban and Academic Emergency Medicine, both Dr. Valladares and his wife, Nubia, felt that Dr. Valladares’ clinical and managerial abilities would better serve a community based institution like SGMC. Both Dr. Valladares and his wife enjoy the countryside, gardening and fishing.

A graduate of the State University of New York Health Sciences Center at Brooklyn, NY, Dr. Valladares received post-graduate training in Internal Medicine at New York Hospital and his post-graduate training in Emergency Medicine at the New York Medical College at Lincoln Hospital in the Bronx, NY. Additionally, he holds a Master of Business Administration and Health Care Management degree from the University of Phoenix. ❧


I t’s an astonishing statistic, but 73 percent of all child safety seats are installed wrong! What looks like a simple piece of

baby gear is actually a sophisticated piece of safety equipment that needs to be installed properly to help ensure your child is safe while riding in an automobile. Below, you will find a short list of some of the most common mistakes parents make when choosing and using child safety seats.

• Size matters:Pick the right sized seat for your child’s height, weight and stage of development. Parents often have a tendency to choose seats based on personal preference, such as the color or style of the seat, or price. The wrong seat won’t fully protect your child in a crash.

• Secure it correctly:When installing a car seat, it’s essential to make sure the seat is held firmly in place. In an accident, a loose seat provides less protection and can become a projectile. Consequently, make sure you perform the

“Inch Test” on the seat before putting the child in it. If you can move the seat more than an inch in any direction after it’s installed, you’ve made a mistake somewhere. The seat is too loose.

• Use all the belts and straps correctly:After the seat is installed properly, parents should be very diligent to make sure the child is secure in the seat. Tighten and properly align the safety harness and make sure it is coming from the correct harness slot. Every seat is different so please check the instruction manual. A word of caution here, don’t be tempted to purchase a used child safety seat because usually they do not have the original instruction manual.

The City of Valdosta Fire and Police Departments offer car seat safety checks for citizens who want to be certain their children are being placed in properly installed devices. City staff are also available to speak and demonstrate at local group meetings or events. Call the VFD at (229) 333-1836 or the VPD at (229) 293-3099 to schedule a safety appointment or group demonstration.


• Fasten all clips and buckles, position the chest clip at armpit level, and tighten the straps: Take note that if you can pinch any extra webbing at the shoulder, the straps are too loose. An Insurance Institute for Highway Safety study found that the top tether is used in only half of car seats installed. Why? Parents felt it was unnecessary. Wrong. The top tether significantly reduces a child’s potential for head and other injuries in a crash by decreasing (by four to six inches) how far that child’s head moves forward. This could, for instance, keep your child’s head from hitting the back of the front seat, the door frame or window in a collision.

• Check the expiration date:All child safety seats have an expiration date! Everything degrades over time, especially after heavy wear and tear. Many seats have expiration dates six to ten years from the date of manufacture and owners need to check to know when to replace them. Be especially careful of this if you have a safety seat that has been passed down through the family.

Most Adults Use Child Safety Seats Incorrectly… Do You?

References: General Motors Foundation and SafeKids Worldwide; StateFarm.com.

10 | center window magazine |summer 2014

The South Georgia Medical Center Foundation would like to formally express our appreciation to all donors at every level. Every gift, regardless of size, is sincerely appreciated and ensures continued progress at South Georgia Medical Center. With the revamped semi-annual production of The Center Window, we will be listing all memorials and honorariums on our website, www.sgmc.org/foundation to assure more timely recognition of donor gifts.

FOUNDATIONDONORREPORT

The Silver Cross Society recognizes an elite group of community members and employees who have pledged a minimum of $10,000 to the South Georgia Medical Center Foundation.

PRESIDENT’S CIRCLEMembers who have the distinction of donating $25,000 or more

Mr. & Mrs. Thomas A. Beaty

D. Larry & Paula Carter

Russell & Virginia Carter

Mr. & Mrs. W. Ed Crane

Bobby & Ann F. Dasher

Mr. & Mrs. Joe V. Dasher, Jr.

L.A. & Freda Denzer

Linda Futch

Louie C. & Betty Flythe

Louie C. & Sharon Flythe, Jr.

Mr. & Mrs. Tommy Griner

Beverly & Doug Henderson, Jr.*

Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Herndon, Jr.

Mr. & Mrs. James Lee Herndon

Mr. & Mrs. E. Cameron Hickman

Maj. (Ret.) & Mrs. Hobert Hodge

D.K. Hollis Jr., Family

Mr. & Mrs. Harley Langdale, Jr.

John W. Langdale, Jr.

The Judge Harley & Thalia Lee

Langdale Family

Larry & Ann Lee

Mrs. Roline A. Little

Tyson & Mary Sue McLane

Mr. & Mrs. Dutton Miller

Mr. & Mrs. Martin J. Miller

Mr. & Mrs. Willis Miller, III

Mr. & Mrs. Ashley Paulk

Mr. & Mrs. Sidney Pearlman

Mr. & Mrs. William J. Pearlman

Mr. & Mrs. Vernon Pizer

Mr. & Mrs. Don F. Reames

Mr. & Mrs. Randy Sauls*

John & Helen Thomas

James Vaughan

MEMBERSMr. & Mrs. Johnny Ball, III*

Mr. & Mrs. Charles W. Barnes, III

Mrs. Charles W. Barnes, Jr.

Jimmy & Sue Benefield

Jan & Ben Blanton

Brandi & Kevin Booth*

Johnny & Susan Bowden*

Mr. & Mrs. John S. Bowling

Mr. & Mrs. Nathan Brown

Mr. & Mrs. Eugene Brzezienski

Bubba & Kay Burnett

Amy & Doug Carter

Pamela L. Cartwright*

Ronnie & Honey Chauncey

Pat & Ray Chitty

James & Patricia Colson

Mr. & Mrs. Larry Colson

Mr. & Mrs. Ben Copeland

Pat & Joe Cordova

Stanley & Sue Cox

Mr. & Mrs. Charlton L. Davis

Mr. & Mrs. Felton Davis, Jr.

Mary Jane & Phillip Davis

The Dewar Family

Mr. and Mrs. Mike Dover

Continued On Next Page


SGMC Foundation, P.O. Box 1727, Valdosta, GA 31603-1727 (229) 333-1071.Continued On Next Page

Silver Cross Society Continued

The

Caduceus Society

The Caduceus Society recognizes a valuable group of physicians who are dedicated to transforming medicine to meet the challenges of tomorrow with an individual pledge minimum of $10,000 to the South Georgia Medical Center Foundation.

Dr. & Mrs. John AndersonDr. John W. & Vicki DevineDr. & Mrs. Glenn Hamilton EvansDr. & Mrs. William N. Gee, Jr.Dr. & Mrs. Charles F. HobbyDr. & Mrs. Tommy Hobby

Dr. & Mrs. Jeffrey HoyDr. John B. HuntDr. & Mrs. Mark R. KeatonDr. & Mrs. Ed MarkJames & Dr. Kimberly Megow*Dr. & Mrs. Richard J. Nijem

Dr. & Mrs. Jerry G. Purvis, Sr.Dr. & Mrs. Livingstone A. Rasalam Dr. & Mrs. Stephen Zeigler

*Employees of SGMC

Mrs. Carolyn H. Eager

Mr. & Mrs. Jack H. Edwards, Jr.

Charles & Jennie Eidson

The Feinberg Family

Andrew & Shannon Flemer*

Mr. & Mrs. Bill Forbes*

Bob & Debbie Foster*

Ashley T. Fox

Emil & Patti Girardin

Mr. & Mrs. Jim Godbee

Mike & Jayne Godwin

Gail P. Green

Mr. & Mrs. George Hardy

Mr. & Mrs. Greg S. Hembree

Mr. & Mrs. Gerald Henderson

Jacqueline Hensley

Richard Hill

Mr. & Mrs. Allen D. Holt, Jr.

Mr. & Mrs. Brantley Jenkins

Jerry & Kay Jennett

Rusty & Laura Jones*

Vivian Jones

Mrs. Louis Kafoure

Ken & Cheryl Kiser*

Pope & Evelyn Langdale

Dr. & Mrs. Jeff Long*

Mr. & Mrs. James McGahee

Britt & Kristin McLane

Ian & Debi McTurk

Chris & Pam Manwell

Jesse & Dedo Marranville

Mrs. Leonard Mederer

The W. L. Miller, Jr., Family

Robert C. Moore

Walter H. New

Mr. and Mrs. Tom Newbern

Franklin & Michelle Patten

Scott & Jan Pearlman

Beatrice L. & Harry F. Roberts

Nell & Bill Roquemore

Bill & Ina Rountree

Jeanne D. & Wilbur Rountree

Jeff & Jenny Sikes

Dr. Robbie & Ken Slater

Mr. & Mrs. Gregory B. Soshnik

Mr. & Mrs. M. Bradley Soshnik

Mr. & Mrs. Wright Turner

Elizabeth M. Vickers*

Jimmy A. & Jimmie Ray Wainright

Buddy & Analease Walker

J. P. Worn, Jr.

The Capital Club represents corporate partnerships between businesses and other organizations that support the SGMC Foundation and its mission in our community. These memberships are specific to each capital campaign

GRAND ALLIANCEGeorgia Power FoundationHEART!Kohl’s SGMC Volunteer Auxiliary

GOLD MEDALLIONGeorgia Power Company

SILVER MEDALLIONMcLane Funeral ServicesSouthwest Georgia BankAmerican Solutions for Business, Inc.-Billy Smith

BRONZE MEDALLIONBlanton & Griffin Insurance Bush Wealth ManagementCertus BankCJB Industries, Inc.ERCO Worldwide, Inc.Guardian BankHeritageBank of the SouthSoutheastern Federal Credit Union

Top 10 Foods to Help You Live Longer

EMPOWERMENT


Top 10 lists are always popular reading, whether its favorite baby names, new models of automobiles or top athletes and sports activities. Below, let’s take a look at foods that made the Top 10 list for helping you to live a longer, happier life.

Dr. Joel Fuhrman, author of the book Eat to Live, has a Top 10 list for longevity that focuses on categories of foods. They are listed below:

Green leafy vegetables

(kale, collard greens, spinach and lettuce)

Non-leafy cruciferous vegetables

(broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage)

Berries

Beans

Mushrooms

Onions

Seeds (flax, pumpkin, sesame, sunflower)

Nuts (walnuts, pistachios, almonds and cashews)

Tomatoes

Pomegranates

A well balanced diet should contain lots of fruits and vegetables. Some fruits and vegetables may be more packed with nutritional value, but all fruits and vegetables have fiber and important nutrients necessary for good health—so eat up! Berries, including blueberries, blackberries, and cranberries are deserving of special mention because of their high levels of antioxidants. Green leafy vegetables contain folate, calcium and other nutrients. Cruciferous vegetables are high in phytochemicals, vitamins, minerals and fiber and have been linked to a lower risk of cancer. Experts agree that broccoli is considered one of the best super foods. If you can only force yourself to eat one vegetable, broccoli is the best choice. Broccoli contains large amounts of vitamin C, and calcium, which helps prevent bone loss.

Tomatoes are valuable because they contain lycopene which

helps fight free radicals. Free radicals can damage the skin and vital organs. Lycopene also helps stimulate the immune system. Some studies show it might prevent the progression of certain degenerative diseases and protect against prostate cancer.

For years, nuts were generally listed as foods to limit because they were high in fat. We now know that these fats, while high in calories, are healthy monounsaturated fats and are beneficial for heart health. Walnuts are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids which help fight inflammation. Pecans have been

found to lower LDL cholesterol by as much as 30 percent and Brazil nuts have 100 percent of the recommended daily allowance of selenium.

Beans and legumes are high in protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals, and when properly cooked, they are low in calories and fat. A growing body of evidence suggests that diet is one of the important contributors to longevity and healthy living. Incorporate these suggestions into your diet to enjoy a longer and healthier life. The message is simple – 10 servings of fruits and veggies a day (the more colorful the better), lots of whole grains and cut down on salt, fat and sugar. Your body will thank you for it!


Reference: HEALTHwire, March 2014


Hospice Donor Report It is our pleasure to acknowledge these generous donors for their support of Hospice of South

Georgia and the Langdale Hospice House. For a complete listing of donors, including memorial gifts and honorariums, please visit our donor listing at www.hospiceofsouthgeorgia.org.

Andrew BenefieldLt. Col. & Mrs. John BlackEvie BoltonBonita SpringsDr. & Mrs. Robert Cardell, Jr.Lottie ChappellMark ChappellMr. & Mrs. Pat ChappellColeman Talley, LLPCommercial Banking CompanySharon & Larry CunninghamDeWitt Farms, Inc.Judy & James Douglas

Joed DusslingJudge John K. Edwards, Jr.First United Methodist ChurchGeorge W. FisherStan & Debra FolsomGreater Valdosta United WayGreenberg TraurigHenry W. Peabody & Co, Inc.Linda & Ancel HoganJ & M Diesel Repair, Inc.Vera JonesGeorgia & Mike JordanL & M Bag & Supply Co., Inc.

The Langdale CompanyWendy & Dick LewellenLorusso Law Firm PCMcLane Funeral HomeKenneth Monroe NE-RO Tire & Brake SVC Inc.Opec Family CorporationDorothy PinkstonSandra ReddickLyle RenodinJean RetterbushEncarnacion RodriguezMadeline & John Sanders

Amanda & Alan SandersonBunnie & Gordon SmithSmitty’s Lake Park Package Store, LLC.Charmaine & Leo SpannSouth Georgia Medical Center Foundation, Inc.Julie & Robert WilbersGlenn WilliamsVirginia & Robert WilliamsKathryn WilliamsonUnited Way of Suwanee Valley, Inc.Sara & Bobby Yarbrough

General Donors, $100 or more

The Tree House “One Year and Counting!”

With donations extending from crystal glasses to gently used designer clothing, The Tree House Resale shop, located at Five Points, soared through its first year of business with tremendous support and contributions from the community. Susan Bowden, Executive Director of Hospice of South Georgia and Langdale Hospice House explained, “Because of this successful year, Hospice of South Georgia anticipates a generous financial contribution to support the Langdale Hospice House!”

The Tree House opened its doors in July 2013, steadily growing customer loyalty through quality donations, beautiful displays on themed vignettes, and a passion for helping Hospice of South Georgia and Langdale Hospice House serve the community and surrounding areas. While donations are always appreciated and volunteers needed, Amber Lodge, store manager, remains animated and positive for the future.

Everyone from The Tree House, along with Hospice of South Georgia and Langdale Hospice House, extends an enormous “Thank You” to all those who contributed, volunteered, and shopped at the store this past year.

By: Lindsey Rogers, Hospice of South Georgia


South Georgia Medical Center and its Smith Northview Campus are making it easy to access your health information, so you can stay focused on you. Get details of your recent visits, including your

discharge summary, lab results, radiology reports, your medication list and more in a secure portal available only to you and your care team.

Register for MyHealthSGMC

Patient Portal Connects You to Your Health Information

Getting your health information is easy:

1. Give your email to the registration clerk during the registration process.

2. Look for an email from South Georgia Medical Center.

3. Click the link in the email. Verify, register and you’re done!

If you have questions about technical issues or viewing your information, please call our technology partner, Relay Health Customer Support, at 1-866-735-2963 or email them at [email protected].

Want to learn more? Visit MyHealthSGMC.org!

FOCUS

Congratulations go out to the dedicated physicians and staff at South Georgia Medical Center’s

Pearlman Comprehensive Cancer Center (PCCC). Recently, the PCCC was named a Women’s Choice Award® recipient as one of America’s Best Hospitals for Cancer Care.

The award aims to identify the nation’s best healthcare institutions based on patient satisfaction, clinical excellence, and what women really want when it comes to cancer treatment and a quality hospital experience.

“The Women’s Choice Award is not something you nominate your organization to receive,” says SGMC Assistant Administrator for Clinical Services Pam Cartwright, FACHE. “It is earned based on publically attainable information that was scored by a third party. The award is given without bias and it reaffirms the fact that Pearlman is a Center of Excellence. Patients can and do choose this organization with confidence.”

According to Delia Passi, Founder of the Women’s Choice Award, the Pearlman Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group that earned the 2014 Women’s Choice Award.

“Out of 1,419 hospitals that have received accreditation from the American College of Surgeon’s Commission on Cancer as leading cancer treatment facilities, Pearlman is among the elite 337 America’s Best Hospitals for Cancer Care due to their commitment and passion for creating an extraordinary patient healthcare experience,” Passi explains.

Individuals who have experienced cancer care services at Pearlman will corroborate these statements. “Cancer is a very personal experience,” says Bridgett Young, Administrative Director of Cancer Services at the PCCC. “The one-size-fits-all, cookie cutter approach doesn’t work for cancer treatment. The physicians and staff are devoted to helping our patients. We customize each patient’s treatment program specific to the individual’s needs.”

For both men and women, treatment plans incorporate the care and support services felt to be most beneficial. This may include surgery to remove a cancerous tumor, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, nutritional support, psycho-social support, art therapy and a survivorship program with cancer rehab. All of these things separate Pearlman from the rest.

Keeping Your Health Our Highest Priority

Pearlman Comprehensive Cancer Center One of 2014 America’s Best Hospitals for Cancer Care


Pearlman affiliated physicians John Devine, MD; Eric Anderson, MD and Samuel Ofori, MD review program benchmarks needed to maintain high standings.


“Pearlman offers a state-of-the-art radiation therapy program featuring modern technology and longstanding accreditation by the American College of Radiology and the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer,” Young adds. “Our research program is highly renowned and allows clinical trial protocols available at larger teaching and research institutions to be delivered to patients in Valdosta.”

Psycho-social support services for women include everything from Look Good Feel Better classes to address the effects of chemotherapy to financial counseling and referrals to community resources for help in meeting a family’s financial needs. On staff dietitians work one-on-one with cancer patients to address dietary concerns. On staff licensed clinical social workers and chaplains offer resources to address spiritual concerns and improve family communications.

Patient and family support groups and classes facilitate understanding

of treatment processes and help fill the void for information. The Survivorship Program developed at Pearlman received “Best Practice” ranking from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer and serves as a model for community cancer programs nationwide. Cancer rehab is another free service available to patients completing treatment at

the PCCC. According to Young, “Every oncology patient meets with their doctor at the end of treatment and if the physician decides cancer rehab is appropriate, the patient will work with a specially-trained team for three months to improve stamina and overall wellness while participating in this exercise program.”

Pearlman is one of only a few cancer centers to offer a special support group for the children of cancer patients. Named the CLIMB program, the Saturday meetings provide emotional support for children aged 7 to 12 who have a parent or primary caregiver with cancer.

Art and Soul is an art therapy program offered at Pearlman. It helps patientspass the time. “Volunteers do everything from painting to sand art,” says Young. “The patients really enjoy it!”

Speaking candidly and frequently, PCCC affiliated physicians devote countless hours to patient consults.

Another unique offering at Pearlman is musical performances by local musicians. Here Valdosta State University students perform for the listening enjoyment of patients and families. Continued on Page 18


For more information on any of the

services provided at the Pearlman Comprehensive

Cancer Center, call 229-259-4600 or visit

our website at www.sgmc.org/cancer.

Young concluded by saying that throughout the patient’s cancer treatment experience, the physicians and staff at Pearlman do everything they can to make the experience positive. “We understand our patients’ frustrations and fears and we work tirelessly to give each one the tools and encouragement to be the best they can be,” she adds. “We love what we do here. It’s great that women have taken notice.”

Given the high occurrence rates of cancer in the United States, it is safe to say that almost every woman in America has been touched by cancer. When left undetected and untreated, cancer can be a silent killer at any age. It is now more important than ever to make smart healthcare choices to screen, diagnose, and fight cancer.

One of the most important decisions a woman will make in her battle to fight the disease is the hospital she chooses,” concludes Passi. “When a woman sees the Women’s Choice Award displayed, she’ll know that Pearlman values her experience as a critical component of care for both the woman and her family.”

According to the American Cancer Society, Cancer remains the second most common cause of death in the US,

accounting for nearly one of every four deaths. Moreover, one in every three women has a risk of developing cancer during their lifetime.

Considering women are responsible for 90 percent of a family’s healthcare choices, as recorded by the American Academy of Family Physicians, the Women’s Choice Award signals that a cancer center meets high standards regarding a woman’s preferences, allowing women to make informed decisions about where to go for themselves or a family member.

Former patient Ami Guilliams credits her medical oncologist, Dr. Jennifer Dallas, and the PCCC staff for having a personal interest in her recovery.

Continued from Page 17

Read Ami’s testimonial on Page 19.



Babe Ruth, one of the greatest players to play the game of

baseball once said, “Never let the fear of striking out keep you from coming up to bat.”

Ami Guilliams never let the fear of breast cancer strike her out, either. The wife of Greg Guilliams, head coach of the Valdosta State Blazer baseball team, Ami was diagnosed with Stage IIB Triple Negative Breast Cancer in May 2013.

Ami was 39 years old, no family history and for the most part physically fit, but while doing a self-exam she felt a lump. Ami says, “I knew right away something was not right because the lump was large and very painful.” She followed up with her doctors and on May 31, 2013 she had a double mastectomy at South Georgia Medical Center. “I was a fighter; the nursing staff on the medical/surgical floor was so encouraging and amazing,” says Guilliams.

Following surgery, the recovery process started when Ami returned home. She started receiving treatment at Pearlman under the care of Jennifer Dallas, MD Hematology/Medical Oncology. “Dr. Dallas is my angel. She’s such an awesome person,” says Guilliams. Ami recalls her first visit to the cancer center being very tearful but she never questioned the type of care she was going to receive from Dr. Dallas and everyone at Pearlman. “Every single person had a positive attitude and I was not just a medical record number to them, I was Ami Guilliams,” she says.

There were weeks where Ami received treatment three times a week, but she did not let them slow her down. Ami was able to attend her sons, Elijah and Isaac’s, baseball games, help coach their teams, barely missed a day of work and still volunteered in her kids classrooms at school.

“I have such a deep appreciation for the level of care I received at Pearlman,” says Guilliams. She encourages anyone who might need cancer care to stay right here in Valdosta. She says for her it would have been a huge mistake to travel elsewhere for cancer care. “The doctors, nurses, and every person at Pearlman have a personal interest in your recovery,” says Guilliams.

For Ami, her breast cancer diagnosis was not a strike out. Pearlman hit a grand slam. “Cancer did not win this game,” she says, “I did!”

TESTIMONIAL


Pearlman Cancer Center hits a Grand Slam

By: Meghan Schunhoff Community Relations

SGMC Lanier Campus & SGMC Lakeland Villa Transfer of Ownership Strengthens Rural Facilities

South Georgia Medical Center recently completed its plans for strategic integration. On May 1, Lanier Health Services, Inc. transferred ownership of Louis Smith Memorial Hospital and the Lakeland Villa Convalescent Center to the Hospital Authority of Valdosta & Lowndes County, Georgia. Now, the facilities are known as the SGMC Lanier Campus and the SGMC Lakeland Villa.

“Under the full ownership of the Hospital Authority, the hospital and nursing home become public, not-for-profit facilities,” said SGMC CEO Randy Sauls. “The transfer of ownership was prompted by increasing awareness of threats to small community hospitals and our determination that direct ownership will provide greater economic successes for the hospital and nursing home moving forward.”

Integration will provide a more seamless referral network and standardization of protocols and patient care practices. Sauls said, “The goals are to continue the same services you have come to expect from your community hospital while offering additional programs and services of the larger Medical Center.”

On May 20, the Lakeland-Lanier Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting to officially mark the acquisition and renaming of the two facilities. Chamber President Sandy Sanders said,

“The Chamber is very pleased to have SGMC as a member of the Lanier County community and we are appreciative of all the hospital’s efforts to improve facilities and services for our residents. As Chamber president and director of the Development Authority, I naturally recognize the importance of the economic strength of this hospital.”

As the community’s largest employer, the hospital and nursing home have an annual economic impact exceeding $12 million. SGMC’s future plans include improvements to the campus and continued development of the grounds and facilities. This fall, a groundbreaking will be held for a replacement nursing home for the 62-bed SGMC Lakeland Villa, a total investment of $10 million in the Lanier County community.

Sauls said, “The local medical staff members including Dr. Bruce Herrington, Dr. Benjamin Bailon, Dr. Jon Williams, and Dr. Eric Castor have been extremely supportive of this venture and see its benefits in terms of a more direct referral network and a continuum of healthcare services through a consolidated SGMC brand.”

To maintain a strong since of connection with the residents of Lanier County, an 8-member Advisory Board was established to advise hospital leaders.



The all-volunteer Advisory Committee meets quarterly to be a direct line for information and feedback concerning the key health issues of the region. The Advisory Committee provides knowledge, experience and opinions regarding the operation of the SGMC Lanier Campus and development of healthcare services and programs specific to the needs of Lanier County residents.

Sauls is pleased that such a distinguished and well-respected group of residents agreed to serve in this capacity. He said, “These men and women are community stakeholders and represent leading employers and service organizations. With such a wide scope of community involvement, their leadership will be very helpful as we plan for the current and future health needs of this region.”

By: Laura Love Community Relations

Serving on the Advisory Committee are: Jimmy Benefield, retired bank president; Ben Copeland, president of Patten Seed Company; Alex Lee, president, Lakeland branch, Farmers & Merchants Bank; Suzanne Mathis, JD, practicing attorney; Wonda McCrae, banking representative, Farmers & Merchants Bank; Dub Music, proprietor of Music Funeral Home; Sandy Sanders, president of the Lanier-Lakeland Chamber of Commerce; and Jay Shaw, proprietor of Jay Shaw Company. Representing the Hospital Authority of Valdosta & Lowndes Co., GA is Cam Hickman, president of Hickman Transport.

The ribbon cutting was attended by 150 citizens and staff members. Mrs. Nell Roquemore was also recognized for her family’s longtime support of the hospital.

Critical Care Nursing…Delivering the Highest Levels of Care

MEDICALNEWS

Rabbi Harold Kushner wrote a bestselling book, When Bad Things Happen to Good People, in which he shares his family’s struggles upon learning of his son’s terminal diagnosis from an incurable illness. One can only imagine the fear, frustration, sadness and anxiety this family experienced while their child was gravely ill in the hospital’s critical care unit.

Situations like this take place every day all over the country. At South Georgia Medical Center, we have a team of highly-trained critical care registered nurses capable of delivering the highest levels of care for the “good people” to whom such “bad things” happen.

By definition, critical care nursing is that specialty within nursing that deals specifically with human responses to life-threatening problems such as heart attacks, strokes, severe breathing problems, burns, gunshot wounds, or severe Sepsis.

To be an excellent critical care nurse, one needs a set of essential skills. These include listening well, communicating clearly, using sound judgment, solving complex problems, and most importantly, having unlimited compassion. In critical care, the nurses, physicians, and other professionals work as a team to ensure patients and their families are well taken care of

and informed about their condition. This not only requires essential skills, it often requires special monitoring equipment so even the slightest change, at the earliest moment, can be detected and acted upon so that we help our patients get better faster and discharged home as quickly as possible.

Last year, the nurses in critical care embarked on an initiative to reduce the incidence of infections in the critical care units. Using the latest evidence-based literature, the nurses were successful

in reducing ventilator associated pneumonias to zero and they sustained that achievement for more than a year. In January 2014, the Georgia Hospital Association awarded the South Georgia Medical Center Critical Care Units the Josh Nahum Award for eliminating this form of pneumonia. In addition to their efforts in infection reduction, the nurses, therapists, physicians, and pharmacists have been recognized by the American Heart Association for excellence in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) outcomes. This past year, the hospital

By: Debra Baker, MSN, RN, CCRN, Clinical Nurse Leader, Critical Care & Tom Calabro, RN, Director of Nursing, Critical Care


was awarded Bronze and Silver awards for this work. At the same time, under the leadership of Dr. Brian Dawson, our teams have been recognized with a Gold Plus/Target Stroke Award for excellence by the American Heart & Stroke Association for the care of patients who experience a stroke. Achievements such as these are no small feat. They are a testimony to the excellence of our clinical

staff. Not only is the work they perform at the bedside physically demanding, it is mentally taxing as well.

When patients come to our critical care units (3-Tower & 4-Tower) they can have broken bones, broken hearts, internal bleeding, serious respiratory issues, dangerous infections and many other life-threatening conditions

which all contribute to feelings of anxiousness and fear. Critical care nurses see patients at their worst and most vulnerable, which is why our nurses must always be at their best. South Georgia Medical Center is lucky to have some of the best, brightest, and most highly trained nurses in the region. It is this commitment to high-quality patient care that truly makes a difference in the lives of those we serve.


Critical care nursing requires specialized monitoring so even small changes can be detected and acted upon quickly.

WELLNESS

Mental Health Issues in the ElderlyWhen Should You Be Concerned?

Growing old CAN be a good thing. I mean, think about it. You finally get paid back

a tiny fraction of all the money you paid in to Social Security! You can retire and go on trips, you pay less to eat out or see a movie, and best of all you can give the grand kids back when you have had enough. Aging however, has a dark side.

There is an old adage in psychiatry that says “the mind and the body are interconnected” and “either one can control the other.” Nowhere is that more true than as we age. Since this article is focusing specifically on “the mind,” there are some interesting statistics that look at how aging affects the risk of developing psychiatric illness.

According to a World Health Organization report, greater than 20 percent of people over the age of 60 have a mental disorder. If we look just at Alzheimer’s disease, the risk begins to double every 5 years of age over the age of 65 to the point where at age 85 the risk of developing Alzheimer’s is about 45 percent. Alcohol and substance abuse are becoming much more common with the rates estimated to be 15 percent and 20 percent respectively in the elderly.

The good news is that older folks do have protection over acquiring some types of psychiatric disorders. It is very unusual for people over 50 to suddenly develop schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, Tourette’s Syndrome, autistic disorder or attention deficit disorder.


By: Joel Morgan, MD

Contact Dogwood for More Information:SGMC Dogwood Senior Health Center

1221 East McPherson AvenueNashville, Georgia 31639

229-433-8680www.sgmc.org/dogwoodseniorhealth


The f lip side is that the incidence of disorders such as depression, substance abuse, anxiety disorders, dementia and delirium can increase with age. So why is it that these so called neuropsychiatric disorders are so common in the elderly? There are many reasons. Certainly, as in the body, the brain is also susceptible to wearing out (hardening of the arteries, for example). The so-called degenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease begin to show up. We also begin to develop other physical ailments that have an emotional impact on us promoting the development of depression.

Additionally, another consequence of aging is that we begin to lose friends and relatives who support us emotionally, physically and often financially. For example, if someone is “fortunate enough” to reach the age of 100 it is very likely that they have survived their siblings and even their children. Many of their friends, former coworkers and neighbors are deceased. They can no longer drive or live independently. These realizations can certainly promote bouts of depression and anxiety. Suicide rates also increase in the elderly.

What can we do to help? Since we can’t stop ourselves from aging the next best thing is to keep a close eye on each other. Older folks in mental distress are very often overlooked. They frequently do not or cannot complain. They often hide their suffering and they are often out of sight and out of mind.

Check on the elderly often and ask questions. Have you noticed significant mood or behavior changes? Have these individuals lost interest in things they used to enjoy? Do they have difficulty sleeping or has their sleep pattern changed? Are they having difficulty completing familiar tasks such as dressing themselves or making a pot of coffee?

If you do not get the right answers or if something seems wrong, it is important for the safety and wellbeing of the individual to get professional help. There are many resources in the community and you can start by contacting the individual’s primary care physician, a psychiatrist or professional counselor, or SGMC Dogwood Senior Health Center.

Dogwood is a specialized behavioral health inpatient facility with a 12-bed geriatric/psychiatric unit for seniors who are experiencing issues such as depression and anxiety. A short-term inpatient stay with appropriate therapies is often the stabilizing factor many seniors need. Patients and family members can contact Dogwood directly, or they can contact the patient’s primary care physician. Admissions to Dogwood are covered by Medicare and most private insurances. Help is available if you take the first step.

Medical Director of SGMC Dogwood Senior Health Center

Do you Know Sepsis?SGMC Raises Awareness of America’s Number One Killer

If you haven’t heard of Sepsis, you aren’t alone. A recent national survey found that less than half of Americans have ever heard of Sepsis, even though it kills more than 258,000 Americans annually, more than breast cancer, lung cancer and prostate cancer combined. South Georgia Medical Center, through its “Know Sepsis” campaign, seeks to change that by educating the community on signs and symptoms and implementing protocols to raise the standard of care for Sepsis patients.

Sepsis is a toxic response to infection; any infection can lead to your body developing Sepsis, making early detection and treatment crucial for survival. “While anyone can get Sepsis, some people are at higher risk,” says Scott O’Quinn, Director of Nursing Education at SGMC. “This includes the very young and the elderly, as well as patients with certain chronic diseases.”

Unfortunately, there is no single sign or symptom of Sepsis. The most common report from Sepsis survivors is that the symptoms they were feeling – fever, chills, pain, and shortness of breath – were

the worst they had ever felt. Other warning signs are dizziness, confusion, or being less responsive or unable to be awakened.

Because Sepsis may occur in patients battling other conditions, a lack of awareness makes it easy to overlook. “As nurses, we are in a unique position to identify patients at the earliest signs of Sepsis and prevent the spread of severe infection. This allows appropriate treatment to begin sooner, decreasing the likelihood of septic shock and the associated cascade of life-threatening organ failure,” says O’Quinn.

Both recognizing Sepsis and treating Sepsis is vital. If you suspect you or a loved one is developing Sepsis, ask your doctor or nurse right away and mention the word “Sepsis.” Tell friends, co-workers and loved ones to look out for warning signs of Sepsis. It can be treated, but must be suspected first.

Reference: http://www.sepsisalliance.org/

Pictured are SGMC Sepsis Team Members: Alisa Winningham, Cynthia Conner, Dr. Glenn Valladares, Dominique Corbine, Dale Cutshaw, Tom Calabro, Paulette Plymale, Scarlett Rivera, Ann Aligood, Debra Baker and Julie Tomberlin. Team Members not present include: Todd Woodard, Mickey Whatley, Scott O’Quinn, Tammy Sumner, Jill Harrison and Amy Slaven.


Reference: http://www.sepsisalliance.org/trouble and brain injury, just as drowning in the water does.

A person who has inhaled water can have: trouble breathing, chest pain, or cough, sudden changes in behavior and/or extreme fatigue. These signs are not easy to spot, particularly in young children who may normally be fussy or tired after a long day in the sun and water.

So use the following guidelines:

• Monitor the person’s breathing. Difficulty breathing, painful breathing or shallow breathing are all red flags.

• Check for persistent cough, pain in the chest and mood or mental status change.

• Lethargy or increased agitation when lying flat, sweaty skin or color changes such as pale, or blue/grayish color are signs of poorly oxygenated blood.

If you notice any of these signs following the accident with water, go to the emergency room immediately. Time is an important factor in treatment which includes oxygen or ventilation at the hospital.

The bottom line prevention. Watch young children carefully, teach swimmers to blow water out, know their limits, and not panic in the water.

With the summer heat, comes the natural need to be near water. But did you know people can drown even when they aren’t in water? This phenomenon is known as “dry” or “secondary” drowning and can occur one to 24 hours after a near drowning event.

While dry drowning and secondary drowning are rare, they can happen to anyone, and from only a small amount of water or liquid. Dry drowning occurs when someone breathes in small amounts of water during a struggle, triggering muscles in their airway to spasm, making it difficult to breathe. In secondary drowning, fluid builds up in the lungs, called pulmonary edema, after a near-drowning incident causing trouble breathing.

Both can quickly lead to death, making it important to recognize symptoms. A person can be out of the water and walking around normally before signs become apparent. But all dry drowning results in breathing

Source: WebMD

Yes, You Can Drown…While Not in Water



NEWLEADERSHIP

SARA ALFORDDIRECTOR OF ACCOUNTINGSarah Alford has been named director of Accounting for South Georgia Medical Center. Her responsibilities include financial statement reviews, coordinating annual external audits, and overseeing accounts payable and fixed assets. Sara has more than eight

years of experience in accounting, six of those with SGMC.

MINDY BATESDIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCESMindy Bates has been named director of Human Resources for South Georgia Medical Center and its affiliated campuses. Most recently serving as Assistant to the Chief Executive Officer, Randy Sauls, and Assistant to the Hospital Authority of

Valdosta-Lowndes County, GA, Bates has been with SGMC for more than ten years, nine of which she served as the Employee Benefits Coordinator in Human Resources.

DAVID BAUCHADMINISTRATIVE CHIEF OF EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICESDavid Bauch, MPA, RN, BSN, EMT-P has been named administrative chief of Emergency Medical Services for South Georgia Medical Center and its affiliated campuses. Bauch’s job responsibilities include 24/7 oversight

for the Mobile Health Care Service Department (EMS), which includes approximately 75 employees and five EMS stations located throughout Lowndes County.

GREG BROWNCAMPUS ADMINISTRATOR OF CLINCH MEMORIAL HOSPITALGreg Brown, MS has joined Clinch Memorial Hospital, an affiliate of South Georgia Medical Center, as the campus administrator. Brown is responsible for providing leadership, staff development, budgeting, and

management of key services in accordance with policies and procedure to assure all patients receive the necessary nursing, medical and psychosocial services to attain and maintain the highest possible care.

PEGGY HARTDIRECTOR OF QUALITY IMPROVEMENTPeggy Hart has been named director of Quality Improvement for South Georgia Medical Center. Hart has been with SGMC for six years as a registered nurse working in various departments which include the Emergency Department, Outpatient Surgery and Medical/

Surgical Units. She will now oversee SGMC’s compliance with core measures and peer reviews.

JULIE HASKINSADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR OF ACCOUNTINGJulie Haskins has been named administrative director of Accounting and will manage the accounting functions for SGMC and its affiliated campuses, Hospice of South Georgia, Langdale Place and the SGMC

Foundation. She will oversee financial reporting, payroll functions, accounts payable and ensure successful completion of the annual external audit. Haskins has been with SGMC for 10 years and is also a certified public accountant.

MICHAEL MAJORASDIRECTOR OF HEALTH INFORMATION MANAGEMENTMichael Majoras, MBA, RHIA has joined South Georgia Medical Center and its affiliated campuses as the director of Health Information Management. At SGMC, Majoras will direct the function of the HIM

department which includes maintaining all records of patient care. He will oversee coding for statistical and billing information, record analysis for completeness, data integrity and transcription services for caregiver documentation.

MANDY MCMILLANDIRECTOR OF FINANCIAL PLANNINGMandy McMillan has been named director of Financial Planning. Her responsibilities include financial planning, budget development and management, data collection and reporting of operational benchmarking for SGMC and its affiliated campuses.

McMillan most recently served as the operations analyst for SGMC with prior experience as a financial analyst for Tift Regional Medical Center.


KAY MILNERADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR OF MEDICAL IMAGING SERVICESKay Milner, RT(R) has been named administrative director of Medical Imaging Services for South Georgia Medical Center and its affiliated campuses. Milner most recently served as manager of Medical Imaging Services

for the SGMC Smith Northview Campus. At SGMC, Milner plans, directs, and supervises all technical and administrative aspects of Medical Imaging. She is responsible for staff performance in accordance with quality standards and state, local, and federal requirements including preparation of reports, documents, payroll, surveys, operational budgets, and other data required.

STEPHEN SHIRLOCKDIRECTOR OF NURSING OPERATIONSStephen Shirlock, RN, MSN, CNL, MSM, RRT, RCP, LNHA has been named director of Nursing Operations for the SGMC Main Campus. Shirlock most recently served as nurse manager of the Ortho/Neurosurgery Unit on 5-Tower. In his new role, Shirlock

will be responsible for the day-to-day nursing operations at the SGMC Main Campus including regulatory compliance, nursing quality and performance improvement. He will also supervise the administrative coordinators and the glycemic and stroke coordinators.

MARIE SIMSDIRECTOR OF EDUCATIONAL SERVICESMarie Sims has been named director of Educational Services. She has been employed at SGMC since 2001. She most recently served as Community Health Promotions coordinator. Her new responsibilities include general staff education for SGMC and its affiliated

campuses and annual review workshops, CPR, maintaining staff education for regulatory compliance and strategic planning.

JANE SIRMANSDIRECTOR OF PATIENT FINANCIAL SERVICESJane Sirmans has been named director of Patient Financial Services for SGMC and its affiliated campuses. Sirmans most recently served as interim director of SGMC’s Revenue Cycle Medical Group. In her new role, Sirmans will

be responsible for the day to day operations of PFS which include the areas of patient business affairs, billing and follow-up, denials management, physician’s revenue cycle and revenue integrity.

JULIE TOMBERLINADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR OF QUALITY IMPROVEMENT/PATIENT SAFETYJulie Tomberlin has been named administrative director of Quality Improvement/Patient Safety. Tomberlin formerly worked as the continuing medical education coordinator and project manager for SGMC’s Medical Affairs department.

In her new role, she is responsible for collecting and reporting quality data for SGMC and its affiliated campuses. She will ensure proper management and reporting of infectious disease risks and collaborate with and ensure compliance with regulatory agencies and state or regional networks. Tomberlin will work closely with the Medical Staff and oversee performance improvement projects.

CINDY VARDEMANDIRECTOR OF CLINICAL INFORMATICSCindy Vardeman has been named director of Clinical Informatics. Vardeman has been with SGMC for 26 years as a registered nurse and also serves as a Clinical Instructor at Valdosta State University’s College of Nursing. As the director of Clinical Informatics, Vardeman

will promote high quality, cost effective medical care, patient satisfaction and healthcare provider/staff satisfaction throughout SGMC and its affiliated campuses by facilitating the use of computers and clinical information technology.

MICKEY WHATLEYDIRECTOR OF PULMONARY SERVICESMickey Whatley, BS, RRT, RCP has been named director of Pulmonary Services at SGMC and its affiliated campuses. Previously, Whatley served as the clinical manager of Respiratory Services at SGMC. Whatley’s responsibilities will include the day to day operations of SGMC’s Pulmonary Services department, process and quality

improvement, as well as direct supervision of respiratory therapy supervisors, sleep lab coordinator, pulmonary function lab and neurology department personnel.

BILL WILSONSYSTEM DIRECTOR OF ACCREDITATION AND REGULATORY COMPLIANCEBill Wilson has been named system director of Accreditation and Regulatory Compliance. Previously, Wilson served as the nursing home administrator at the SGMC Lakeland Villa, a 62-bed nursing home in Lanier County. Throughout his career, Wilson

has been heavily involved in regulatory compliance and worked with the SGMC Lanier Campus to receive eight prestigious state awards for patient safety, quality and best practices. Wilson’s current responsibilities include working with SGMC and its affiliate campuses to assure compliance with all state and federal patient care regulations.


WORDSOFFAITH

Life is full of choices. Many times it is the choices we make that determine the paths our lives will travel. How often have we looked back over the course of our life and wished we could undo that one bad decision. How different life might have been. Or what if we could know which decision really is the life-changing opportunity that shifts everything?

Maybe we do know. Maybe we just need motivation to make the choice we already know is the right one. Maybe that little voice inside our head is telling us the choice to make, but we choose to ignore it. Why is that?

What if it is fear? What if we are afraid it will be like last time? What if we are afraid we will fail? How do we overcome this fear that can be so paralyzing?

We must learn to look at things from a different angle. Fear is False Evidence Appearing Real. I am not talking about a guy trying to juggle chainsaws… I am talking about that other little voice in our head. You know the one that reminds you of all the mistakes you made? The one that repeats the things

you heard others say about you as if they are true? That voice is a liar! Stop listening!

You are uniquely and wonderfully made. There is no one like you in the entire world. You have value. You have worth. You have a place in this society and a role to fill. Life is a grand story and you are in charge of your next step! What will it be?

Life flies by. The older we get, the faster the years seem to move. You do not have a single moment to waste. Share your dreams with your friends. Brainstorm with your closest family ways you can begin to seize opportunities. And then seize them.

Laugh every day. Invest every hour. Love every minute.Remember to look up. That is where the light is…

Decisions

Creston Hulett Chaplain

Calendar subject to change. summer 2014 | center window magazine | 31

Calendar of Events HighlightsFor complete information visit our Community Calendar at www.sgmc.org or call Community

Health Promotions at 229.333.1074. Most programs are offered free of charge, however registration is required. Smoking Cessation classes are offered at all SGMC campuses.

Event Date Event

Sept 3, 10, 17, 24 (SGMC) Sept 8, 15, 22, 29 (Smith Northview Campus)

Smoking Cessation Classes: (Breakfast & Afternoon Sessions)

September 18 Prostate Cancer Screening, Pearlman Cancer Center, details to be announced

Oct 1, 8, 15, 22 (SGMC) Oct 1, 6, 13, 20 (Smith Northview Campus)

Smoking Cessation Classes: 7:30am- 8:30am (Breakfast Provided)

October 9 & 23 Breast Cancer Screening, Pearlman Cancer Center, details to be announced

Nov 3, 10, 17, 24 (SGMC)Nov 3, 10, 17, 24, 26 (Smith Northview Campus)

Smoking Cessation Classes: (Lunch & Afternoon Sessions)

November 20 Great American Smoke Out at all SGMC campuses

Dec 1, 8, 15, 22 (SGMC)Dec 1, 8, 15 (Smith Northview Campus)

Smoking Cessation Classes: (Lunch & Afternoon Sessions)

SGMC Support Groups and Wellness Programs

SGMC offers a wide variety of support groups and classes to help individuals with his or her health and wellness needs. The names of the support groups, meeting dates and contact information are listed below.

SGMC Best Buddies Support GroupMeets the 4th Tuesday of every month at 6:00pm in the Pearlman Cancer Center conference room. Best Buddies is a local support group for breast cancer survivors. For additional information, call 229.259.4638.

Head and Neck Cancer Support GroupMeets the 2nd Wednesday of every month at 2:00pm in the Pearlman Cancer Center conference room. For more information or to register, call 229.259.4638.

Look Good, Feel Better Program Meets the 2nd Monday of every month at 4:00pm in the Pearlman Cancer Center conference room. Look Good, Feel Better is a support group for women with cancer. A free

makeup kit is provided. For more information or to register, call 229.259.4638.

Together We CAN! Coping with Cancer TogetherMeets the 1st Monday of every month at 10:00am in the Pearlman Cancer Center conference room. Together We Can! Coping with Cancer Together is a support group for patients currently receiving cancer treatment. For more information call 229.259.4638.

Stroke and Head Injury Support GroupMeets the 2nd Tuesday of every month at 6:00pm in the Pearlman Cancer Center conference room. For more information, call Kimberly Marshall at 229.259.4292.

Life with Diabetes Support GroupMeets the 4th Tuesday of every month except for June, July and August at 6:00pm at the Diabetes Management Center. For additional information call 229.433.7200.

Arthritis Foundation Exercise ProgramThis low-key exercise program is designed to improve range of motion and flexibility in

the arthritic patient. Taught twice weekly by a PACE certified instructor, this is a program of the Arthritis Foundation. To attend, contact Cardiac Rehab at 229.245.6211. A small fee applies to attend the class.

Mended HeartsMeets the 1st Tuesday of every other month at 6:00pm in SGMC Dining Rooms 1 & 2. Mended Hearts is open to anyone interested in heart disease, heart disease patients and their families, or anyone who supports or cares for someone with heart disease. For more information, call 229.245.6211.

Mended Little HeartsContact Cathy Swilley at 229.259.4270 for meeting dates/times. The Mended Little Hearts Support Group is a nationwide group for families and caregivers of children with heart defects and heart disease.

Alzheimer’s Caregivers SupportMeets the 4th Tuesday of every month at 6:30pm at Langdale Place. Call 229-333-1074 for more information.

(Calendar subject to change.)

PO Box 1727Valdosta, GA 31603-1727

Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage

PAID Valdosta, GA Permit No. 2

JOINT COMMISSION GOLD SEAL OF APPROVALDemonstrating SGMC meets or exceeds the highest standards in the nation for quality care • South Georgia Medical Center • Smith Northview Hospital • SGMC Berrien Campus • SGMC Lanier Campus • Advanced Primary Stroke Center

GEORGIA COVERDELL AWARDS 2013 & 2014• Stroke Registry Hospital of the Year• Stroke Registry Award of Excellence for Door to Needle Time

GHA PARTNERSHIP FOR HEALTH & ACCOUNTABILITY JOSH NAHUM AWARDAchievement in the Infection Prevention and Control category

MAMMOGRAPHY ACCREDITATIONRe-accreditation of four mammography locations from the American College of Radiology

HEALTHGRADES® AMERICA’S 100 BEST HOSPITALS FOR SPINE SURGERY™ IN 2013 & 2014Only Hospital in the area to receive this recognition. “Area” is any counties in the Tallahassee Thomasville DMA, including but not limited to, the counties of Decatur, Lowndes and Thomas in Georgia, and Columbia and Leon Counties in Florida.

HEALTHGRADES® AMERICA’S 100 BEST HOSPITALS FOR PROSTATE SURGERY™

WOMEN’S CHOICE AWARD FOR CANCER CARE IN 2014The Women’s Choice Award identi�es the best hospitals nationwide that are women-friendly and align with women’s identi�ed preferences.

COMMISSION ON CANCER ACCREDITATION

SURVIVORS CIRCLE GRANT RECIPIENT FROM THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF RADIATION ONCOLOGY

GEORGIA ALLIANCE OF COMMUNITY HOSPITALS LARGE HOSPITAL OF THE YEAR

AMERICAN DIABETES ASSOCIATION CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITIONFor meeting the national standards for diabetes self-management educationfor 23 consecutive years

AMERICAN HEART/STROKE ASSOCIATION GET WITH THE GUIDELINES STROKE GOLD PLUS AWARD WITH TARGET HONOR ROLL

AMERICAN HEART/STROKE ASSOCIATION GET WITH THE GUIDELINES SILVER AWARD FOR RESUSCITATION

GEORGIA HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION• Engagement Network Chairman’s Circle• Network Safety Leaders Circle• Quality and Patient Safety (Lanier Campus)• Circle of Excellence (Lanier Campus)• Core Measure Honor Roll (Berrien Campus)

*Accreditations and Awards listed above, as of July, 2014

PO Box 1727Valdosta, GA 31603-1727

www.sgmc.org/awards

RecognitionSGMC Awards and

The Center Window- Summer Issue 2014

Documents

Transcript of The Center Window- Summer Issue 2014