alice japhet ﬁ nds good clean fun in what could be a dirty job. … · alice japhet ﬁ nds good...

INSIDE: Board News, p. 3 • Mini-grants, p. 6 • Flu, p. 7 • Awards, p. 9 • Nuts!, p. 10

Alice Japhet fi nds good clean fun in

what could be a dirty job. Among other

fun games during the Family Health and

Fitness Day Novem-ber 18 was the honey

bucket haul. Kids fi lled their buck-ets with colorful

plastic balls hidden in the

tundra. See page 4 for

more.

Diabetes Prevention hosts Family Health and Fitness Day

Volume X No. 12 • December 15, 2005

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YKHC Board of DirectorsUnit 1Raymond F. Waska, Sr.P.O. Box 46Emmonak, Alaska 99581907-949-1514Paula AyunerakP.O. Box 5Alakanuk, Alaska 99554907-238-3213

Unit 2Ray Alstrom P.O. Box 8Marshall, Alaska 99585907-679-6320James C. LandlordP.O. Box 32168Mt. Village, AK 99632907-591-2119

Unit 3Billy MorganP.O. Box 72Aniak, Alaska 99557907-675-4457Angela MorganP.O. Box 243Aniak, Alaska 99557907-675-4413

Unit 4James Nicori P.O. Box 41Kwethluk, Alaska 99621907-757-6837Moses Peter P.O. Box 57Tuluksak, Alaska 99679907- 695-6420

Unit 5Bill Kristovich P.O. Box 1037 Bethel, Alaska 99559907-543-4151/2212Henry Hunter, Sr.P.O. Box 632Bethel, Alaska 99559907-543-5130Gloria SimeonP.O. Box 308 Bethel, Alaska 99559907-543-5676Joseph C. BavillaP.O. Box 6011Napaskiak, Alaska 99559907-737-7062

Unit 6Esai Twitchell, Jr.P.O. Box 121Kasigluk, Alaska 99609907-477-6309

Unit 7David O. DavidPO Box 78Kwigillingok, Alaska 99622907-588-8484

Unit 8James R. Charlie, Sr. P.O. Box 37012Toksook Bay, Alaska 99637907-427-7114James SiparyP.O. Box 37134 Toksook Bay, Alaska 99637907- 427-7816

Unit 9Reuben HillP.O. Box 210Hooper Bay, Alaska 99604H: 907-558-4096 - W: 558-4711Moses J. Tulim P.O. Box 130Chevak, Alaska 99563907-858-7920

Unit 10Sam W. AlexieP.O. Box 57 Eek, Alaska 99578907-536-5428

Unit 11Kathy W. ChaseP.O. Box 41Holy Cross, Alaska 99602907-476-7162

Honorary Board MemberPaul JohnP.O. Box 37067 Toksook Bay, Alaska 99637907-427-74l4

Numbers to CallYKHC ......................................................................... 543-6000Public Relations .......................................................... 543-6030Media Services ............................................................ 543-6038Office of Environmental Health & Engineering ......... 543-6420Technology Help Desk ................................................ 543-6070Human Resources ....................................................... 543-6060 Job Line ................................................................... 543-6443Administration ............................................................ 543-6020Hospital ....................................................................... 543-6300Emergency Room ........................................................ 543-6395Hospital Community Relations ................................... 543-6350Social Services ............................................................ 543-6225Family Medicine Clinic Appointments ....................... 543-6442 1-800-478-3321Dental Appointments .................................................. 543-6229Optometry Appointments ............................................ 543-6336Audiology Appointments ............................................ 543-6466

Subregional Clinic Appointments Aniak ....................................................................... 675-4556 Emmonak ................................................................ 949-3500 St. Mary’s ................................................................ 438-3500 Toksook Bay ............................................................ 427-7810Public Health Nurses ....................................................543-2110Pharmacy ..................................................................... 543-6382Travel Management Center ......................................... 543-6360WIC Program .............................................................. 543-6459Health Services .......................................................... 543-6024Village Operations ...................................................... 543-6160 CHAP ...................................................................... 543-6160 ICEMS ..................................................................... 543-6080 Community Health & Wellness ............................... 543-6190Behavioral Health Services ......................................... 543-6100 Phillips Ayagnirvik .................................................. 543-6700 Village Services ....................................................... 543-6740Home Care Services .................................................... 543-6170

Unit 10

Unit 5

Unit 7

Unit 8

Unit 9

Unit 1

Unit 11

Unit 3Unit 4

Unit 6

Unit 2

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Volume X No. 12 • December 15, 2005�

The Messenger is a monthly publication produced by the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation’s Public Relations Department as a report to Tribal Members.For questions, comments, submission of articles, or subscription informa-tion, write to Messenger Editor, Media Services, Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation, P.O. Box 528, Bethel, Alaska 99559; or call 907-543-6035. E-mail: [email protected] is the last day of the month preceding publication. Publication is on the 15th of every month.The Messenger is also published on the World Wide Web at www.ykhc.org/messenger.Anchorage Office: 4700 Business Park Blvd. Suite E25, Anchorage, Alaska 99503. 907-677-2232. Please ask permission to reprint articles or pictures.© 2006, Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation.

YKHC Board & Committee Meetings

2006December 19, 2006

Finance Committee

December 20-21, 2006Executive Board

2007January 23, 2007

Finance Committee

January 24Governing Body

February 20Finance Committee

February 21–22Executive Board

March 20Finance Committee

March 21Governing Body

April 4–5Tribal Gathering, Bethel

April 24Finance Committee

April 25–27Full Board of Directors Meeting

May 22Finance Committee

May 23Governing Body

June 19Finance Committee

June 20–21Executive Board

Two new Board members electedTwo new members were seated at YKHC’s annual meeting of its Board of Directors last month. David O. David of Kwingillingok, will represent election Unit 7, and Esai Twitchell, Jr. of Kasigluk will represent Unit 6.

All other board seats remain the same from last year. Elections for board seats are staggard and rotate periodically. New board member David O. David replaces Robert Enoch of Tuntutuliak and Esai Twitchell replaces Chuck Chaliak of Nun-apitchuk.

“We thank Robert Enoch and Chuck Chaliak for their committment and dedication to addressing the health concerns of the people,” said Gene Peltola, President/CEO.

Ray Alstrom of Marshall was reelected as Board Chair. Kathy Chase of Holy Cross moves into the position of Governing Body chair. The Governing Body oversees the YK Delta Regional Hospital

The full roster of Board members can be found on the facing page. Below are our officers and committee members.

David O. David, new Board member representing Unit 7.

Esai Twitchell, Jr., new Board member for Unit 6.

YKHC BOARD COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTSNovember 2006/2007Honorary Member

Paul JohnExecutive Board

Ray Alstrom, ChairBill Kristovich, 1st Vice ChairBilly Morgan, 2nd Vice ChairMoses Tulim, SecretaryMoses Peter, TreasurerJoseph Bavilla, Sgt.-At-ArmsSam Alexie, 1st Additional MemberRaymond Waska, 2nd Additional MemberGene Peltola, Ex-Officio

see COMMITTEES, p. 11

Governing BodyKathy ChaseGloria SimeonJames LandlordJames NicoriJames Charlie, Sr.Esai Twitchell, Jr.Reuben HillRaymond Waska

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They are only children….• Only one in four children get at least 30 minutes

of physical activity a day.• Three out of four get less than 20 minutes of vig-

orous physical activity daily. • More than nine million children between the age

of 6 and 19 are overweight.• In the past 20 years the number of obese children

has doubled (and even tripled for teens).• Nearly 80 percent of overweight children will

become obese adults.• Overweight children risk having at least one medi-

cal condition such as asthma or elevated blood pressure and

• Overweight children also risk depression and iso-lation from their peers.

Adapted from “www.actionforhealthykids.org”

Making Exercise A Family Affair“Family Health and Fitness Day” was celebrated at the Log Cabin and Pinky’s Park on Saturday, November 18. This nationally recognized event was sponsored by the Diabetes Program with support from WIC and EMS Injury Control and included both indoor and outdoor activities.

Fourteen families (38 individuals) enjoyed the honey bucket haul, berry picking racer, dog sled race, follow-the-duck, WIC playtime fun, scarf dancing, yoga for kids, and Chinese jump rope.

EMS ironed reflective tape on an impressive stack of coats and jackets. Both blood pressure and glucose screening was offered. Finally, participants enjoyed healthy snacks and prize bags.

When people were asked if they would return next year, the answer was a defi-nite yes! It was a treat for all the staff and volunteers to see the happy smiles on the faces of all in attendance. A special thanks to all the volunteers who helped make this event a fun, active and healthy day.

New School Wellness Policies

Schools, if they participate in the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program, are required to have Local Wellness Policies in place to promote better nutrition, physical activity and wellness.

All schools are encouraged to work toward these goals. The Diabetes Program supports this program because it will help prevent diabetes in young people. We teach that the best prevention is a healthy diet and increased physical activity. Ask your local school what is happening in your village to protect your children.

Laviza, Jayme and Cherry Notti got movin’ with Ardene Constantine and Luz and Rexmell Hepner.

Trying out the “Chinese Jumprope.”

The Notti girls keep the ball in the air.


Health Education

Prevention best for boilsby Spruce Lynch, Health Education Coordinator

One of the most common physical problems for us is something that we have more control over than we realize.

What I am referring to is boils. An ingrown hair, an infected sweat gland or even a foreign object lodged in the skin can cause boils. All of us can get boils, but not everybody does. People who have diabetes and long–term illnesses are more at risk than the general public.

The germ that causes boils is a bacterium known as staphylococcus aureus. When it enters the body through a break in the skin, this germ goes through your body until it finds an area that is weak. Then, the germ moves in and causes pain and irritation for the person. The skin becomes red and hard. Eventually, white cells show up and try to fight the infection.

This results in a very painful situation. The best treatment is prevention. Keeping your skin

clean and dry is important. If you do get a break in the skin, wash the area immediately. Another good preven-tive measure is maintaining a good diet and drinking plenty of water. Keep your skin dry. If you tend to sweat a lot, wear absorbent clothing.

If you do get a boil, resist the urge to pinch it. This action does two things. It causes more pain for you and it spreads the infection under the skin. When a person does press hard on the area and pus is released, it is usually only the tip anyway, like an iceberg. Doctors recommend warm, moist applications with towels. This helps the blood to rush to the area. When that happens, more white blood cells arrive to do battle on the germs.

Occasionally, the area does need to be evaluated by a medical professional. If you do get a boil and you have tried the moist heat applications for about a week, call your health care provider. He or she might lance it under sterile conditions to prevent any spreading. You might also get a prescription for antibiotics. If you do get antibiotics, use them as directed. If a family member or friend gets a boil, do not share any of your prescription medications with that person. Everyone’s situation is unique and we all need to be treated indi-vidually.

One final piece of advice: Be good to your skin. If you do, your skin will be the best ally you have in the fight against boil development.

Reference: www.medicinenet.com/boil.page2.htm

Boils is the topic on the Health Education Radio Talk Show on KYUK,

Tuesday, Dec. 19,

Congratulations to Facilities Maintenance team members Adam Goodwine, Phillip Nicholai and Wesley Nicholai for acquiring their Class 1 Fire Extinguisher Certifications from the State of Alaska’s Department of Public Safety Fire Prevention. This certification enables them to certify fire extinguishers on-site and conduct annual fire extinguisher inspections within various YKHC facilities. It allows YKHC to meet departmental life safety requirements and cut contractual costs to fly a fire extinguisher contractor from Anchorage. Way to go, gentlemen!

Certified to inspect our fire extinguishers...

Give the gift of a lift thisHoliday SeasonFriends Don’t Let Friends Drive DrunkDesignate a sober driverCo-workers don’t let co-workers drive drunkTake their keys and take them home

Merry Christmas& Best Wishesfor the New Year!

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We are pleased to announce the availability of

STAR MINI GRANTS applicant must...

be eligible for developmental disability services OR currently be enrolled in an Infant Learning Program or on a Waiting List.

Maximum individual amount: $2,500

A developmental disability is defined as a severe, chronic disability that is caused by mental or physical impairment that occurs before the age of 22 and is likely to continue indefinitely. The impairment must result in substantial limitations in major life areas and the person must need continued supports. Examples of developmental disabilities are mental retardation, cerebral palsy, and autism.

STAR Mini-Grants can provide assistance for basic living needs not covered by grants or other funds to help beneficiaries attain and maintain healthy and productive lifestyles.

The kinds of supplies or services the MH Trust considers

appropriate for Mini-Grants include therapeutic devices,

access to medical, dental and vision care, or special health-care

needs.

Assistance with basic living needs not covered by current grants,

such as transportation and clothing are also allowable.

Contact Bertha Chase 1-800-478-3321 ext. 1768 or 543-1768

Please list multiple requests by urgency of need.

DEADLINE: DEC. 29, 2006 @ 5 PM.

A person does not need to be receiving DD Community Services to

apply. Applications for services or equipment that are covered by

other public benefits, a person’s private insurance, Medicaid, or the

Indian Health Service will not be approved.

DD Dept. holds training for direct care providersYKHC’s Developmental Disabilities Department held their annual weeklong Direct Care Provider Training at the Longhouse Hotel, November 27–December 1. Despite weather conditions preventing nearly half from attending, 25 Direct Care Providers (DCPs) from 11 different villages made it to Bethel and received a very intensive training session.

Presentation topics covered Immunizations, CPR and Basic First Aid, Napartet Training, AMOM and Basic Educational Needs, Sign Language, Autism, Body Mechanics, Seizures, Referral and Other Resource information, STAR (Short-Term Assistance and Referral) Program, Emergency Evacuation Preparedness, and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.

Elena Bunyan from Tuntutuliak said in Yup’ik, “I know what to do in case of emergency when I am working with my consumer and I’m glad to be here.” Patrick Cyril, a DCP from Napaskiak, added, “The most helpful information I learned is not to panic when caring

for someone experiencing seizures and not to place any objects inside their mouth.”

DCPs are trained by YKHC staff to work with clients who experi-ence developmental disabilities or mental illness. Currently, 117 DCPs provide services for individuals across the YK Delta.

DCPs are based in the villages, providing in-home support or day habilitation services. Additionally, they coordinate village based-services, work with Tribal Councils to assure individuals are safe and well supported, and meet regularly with individuals and family members to address issues toward self-sufficiency.

If you have any questions or need further information about the Development Disabilities

Program, please contact (907) 543-2762.

2007’s Bogus Creek 150: “Mushing for Brushing”

The Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation’s Dental Depart-ment and its “Smile Alaska Style” dental health campaign are proud to announce that they are the prime sponsor of the 2007 Bogus Creek 150 sled-dog race, scheduled for the weekend of Jan-uary 19, 2007, in Bethel. By sponsoring “Mushing for Brushing,” YKHC’s Dental Department and Bogus Creek 150 will highlight the importance of daily tooth brushing.

“Tooth decay affects more people in the Delta than any other health issue,” says Bob Ward, a dental hygienist with YKHC. Ward and fellow hygienist Rong Li are leading the Mushing for Brushing initiative.

Cavity rates in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta are more than double the national average, nearly to epidemic proportions. The “Mushing for Brushing” campaign aims to bring more public awareness to this issue, and to highlight the importance of daily tooth brushing.

“We are honored to have YKHC’s Dental department as the major sponsor of the Bogus Creek 150,” says Gabe Gomes, race manager. “The Bogus Creek 150 highlights the best of the best in the YK Delta, and we are excited about this opportunity to partner

see MUSHING, p. 11

Developmental Disabilities training was held in Bethel last month for 25 direct care providers from 11 different villages.


Influenza!Each year, we experience a flu epidemic. There are more cases some years than other years. The flu can kill.In fact, the flu virus kills approximately 36,000 people every year in the United States and each year we see hundreds of cases of flu here in our hospital and clinics in the YK Delta. The flu vaccine is the single best tool we have to fight the flu virus.

You or someone in your family may be due for the flu shot. This year everyone who wants protection from the flu virus is welcome to get the flu shot.

Please call your village clinic to get an appointment. If you live in Bethel you can get an appointment at YKHC by calling 543-6442, at the Public Health Center at 543-2110, or the Bethel Family Clinic at 543-3773.

Remember that the flu is not your everyday sickness. Many ill-nesses are called “the flu,” but when we talk about Influenza (flu) we are talking about a respiratory illness that can cause the follow-ing symptoms: fever, cough, sore throat, headache, chills, muscle aches, fatigue. It can lead to pneumonia and can be very dangerous for people with heart conditions, or breathing conditions such as asthma.

The best way to protect our patients, our family, and our children is by getting a flu shot this year. Many people will decline the flu shot because they think that they are healthy and will not get the flu. Parents and Grandparents of young children and anyone in contact with children younger than 5 (and elders and patients with chronic illnesses) ought to get the flu shot—not just for themselves, but to protect their loved ones.

Influenza Q & AThe following information is from the Immunization Coalition. www.immunize.org. The Coalition thanks medical epidemiologists William L. Atkinson, MD, MPH, and Andrew T. Kroger, MD, MPH, both of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Dis-eases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, for answering the following questions for our readers.

Some patients refuse influenza vaccination because they insist they “got the flu” after receiving the injectable vaccine in the past. What can I tell them?

There are several reasons why this misconception persists:• Fewer than one percent of people who are vaccinated with the

injectable vaccine develop any flu-like symptoms, such as mild fever and muscle aches, after vaccination. These side effects are not the same as having influenza, but people confuse the symp-toms.

• Protective immunity doesn’t develop until 1–2 weeks after vac-cination. Some people who get vaccinated later in the season (December or later) may get influenza shortly afterward. These late vaccinees develop influenza because they were exposed to someone with the virus before they became immune. It is not the result of the vaccination.

• To many people “the flu” is any illness with fever and cold symptoms. If they get any viral illness, they may blame it on the flu shot or think they got “the flu” despite being vaccinated. Influenza vaccine only protects against certain influenza viruses, not all viruses.

• The influenza vaccine is not 100 percent effective, especially in older persons. The vaccine is effective in protecting 90 percent of healthy young adult vaccinees from illness when the vaccine strain is similar to the circulating strain. However, the vaccine is only 30 percent–40 percent effective in preventing illness among frail elderly persons (although among elderly persons, the vac-

cine is 50 percent–60 percent effective in preventing hospitaliza-tion and 80 percent effective in preventing death).

What is Influenza (also called Flu)?A contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. This

virus can cause mild to severe illness and can cause death. What is the BEST WAY to prevent it?

Get a flu shot every fall.About 200,000 people are hospitalized because of flu each year.

About 36,000 people die each year (most are elders)What are the symptoms of Flu? • fever (usually high)• headache• extreme tiredness• dry cough• sore throat• runny or stuffy nose• muscle aches• Stomach symptoms,

nauseaVomiting and diarrhea also can occur but are more common in chil-dren than adults.What are Complications of Flu?

Bacterial pneumonia, dehydration, worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma, or diabetes. children may get sinus problems and ear infections.How does the Flu virus spread?

Coughing and Sneezing. Spread from person to person. Sometimes people become infected by touching something with

flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose. Healthy adults may be able to infect others beginning one day

before symptoms develop and up to five days after becoming sick. That means that you can pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.

GET THE FLU SHOT TO PROTECT YOU

& TO PROTECT THE ONES

YOU LOVE!

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Handling and Storing Medicine

How should I store my medications?Each medication has unique storage require-

ments. This is because some medications can become less effective when exposed to air, mois-ture, cold, heat, or light. The best way to know is to read the storage recommendations that are uaually listed on the label. Some prescription medications have strict storage requirements; your pharmacist can help you determine the best way to store these medications.

Recommendations for storing your medications:• Always read the storage directions on each

medication label. Dispose of medication if it has no label or if the label cannot be read clearly.

• Keep medications in their original container. For prescription drugs this means keeping the medications in the original prescription vial.

• Never combine different medications into one bottle or vial.

• Never store multiple medications in a plastic bag; the tablets may get crushed or may break.

• Store medications in a cool, dry place and away from direct light.

• Prevent moisture—store capsules or tablets away from bathroom, kitchen sink or other damp places. Moisture may cause the medicine to break down. Also, after opening, remove the container’s cotton plug that may draw moisture into the container.

• Avoid exposing medications to temperature extremes (for example, very hot or very cold temperatures).

• If a medication is required to be stored in the refrigerator, be careful not to store it in the freezer or expose it to excessive moisture.

• Store drugs out of harm’s way. Always keep them out of the reach of children.

• Check the expiration date each time you take a drug. Discard and replace any medications that are out of date.

• Never use a medication that has changed color, consistency, or odor, regardless of the expiration

The Great American Smokeout/Chewout

This event is spon-sored by the Ameri-can Cancer Society to encourage smokers to quit for a day in the hope they may quit for good.

YKHC Nicotine Control & Research Program had a booth at the A.C. Store. Caroline Nevak and Maribeth Ayagalria manned the booth, handing out brochures, teaching sheets and posters. Anyone who used tobacco was encouraged to pledge to be tobacco free for the day. Those who signed up were eligible to win a “cold turkey.” More than 10 signed up and two of the participants reported that they have not used tobacco since. A big thank-you to A.C. Store manager David Hicks for donating two turkeys.

Each year for the past 30 years, millions of smokers have participated in the Ameri-can Cancer Society Great American Smokeout, with a significant number of them able to quit tobacco addiction for good.

“The single best thing that Alaskans who use tobacco can do to improve their health is to quit smoking or chew-ing tobacco products,” said Dr. Daniel Smith of the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta Regional Hospital. “Alaska has one of the highest smoking rates in the coun-try—one in four Alaskan adults cur-rently smokes cigarettes, and within the Native population that number is nearly double (42 percent).”

Even though the Smokeout officially began in 1977, the event’s roots reach back to 1971, when Arthur P. Mullaney challenged the citizens of Randolf, Massachusetts, to give up cigarettes for the day and donate the saved money to a high school scholarship fund.

If you are interested in quitting tobacco, call us at YKHC Nicotine Control &

Research Program at 1-800-478-3321 or 543-6312.

see MEDICATIONS, p. 10

Maurice Pete, of Bethel, confronts the challenge and signs up to quit smoking for the day with Caroline Nevak.

A Thank You from the Family of a Child Treated at YKHC’s ER

“My husband and I would like to thank each of you for your unique role in the critical care of our son. Thank you, Dr. Eggimann for making certain I was able to see Elton and touch him and thank you for your honest and thoughtful interaction. Thank you, Dr. McClure for your support and concern. Thank you Dr. Davis for your excellent and caring attention you’ve given Elton since our return. We are truly thankful to each and all of you. May God Bless you and your families as you have blessed us. Sincerely, Father David, Kim and Elton.”

YKHC appreciates our great team of health care professionals including the ambulance crew, physicians, nurses, support staff, community relations, Aeromed crew and all those that care for our patients every day.


YKHC nurses make “Nurse of the Year”YKHC Public Relations

Chosen from 75 of the best nurses in Alaska nominated in 18 different categories, Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation nurses David Evans and Ann Glasheen were awarded Alaska’s Emergency Nurse of the Year and Women’s Health Nurse of the Year, respectively.

The awards were given at the Alaska March of Dimes 2006 Nurse of the Year Awards ban-quet on November 17 in Anchorage.

Also nominated for awards in four other categories were: Leigh Trammel for Maternal/New-born Nurse of the Year, Virginia Jensen for Ambulatory Nurse of the Year, and in two special categories, Dawna Richardson for the Friends of Nursing Award, and Rachelle White for the Rising Star Nurse of the Year.

“We are honored to have all of these outstanding nurses working at our hospi-tal,” said Barbara Jacobson, Chief Nurse Executive for YKHC. “They all show true compassion for their work, and they provide an exceptional quality of care to our patients at the Yukon-Delta Regional Hospital.”

David Evans, a Pediatric Nurse Practi-tioner in YKHC’s Emergency Room, has

YKHC receives Press Ganey Compass AwardYKHC Public Relations

During a ceremony on November 13th, at the Press Ganey National Client Conference in New York City, YKHC received the prestigious Compass Award in the Medical Practice category.

Press Ganey’s annual Compass Award recognizes health care facilities whose overall satisfaction scores have shown the greatest improvement over the past two years. Press Ganey is a leading consulting agency serving over 7,000 health care client facilities across the nation, including the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation.

Dr. Melvin F. Hall, president and chief executive officer of Press Ganey, said, “We are proud to partner with organizations that place a premium on patient, employee, and physician satisfaction. These organizations live their mission, vision, and values every day. In an industry filled with passion and dedication, it is important to pay tribute to those organizations that are leading the charge to improve quality—the Press Ganey Awards recognize these leaders.”

YKHC first began using Press Ganey’s surveys in 2004 to learn more about how our patients feel about their experiences at our hospital. At this time, one couldn’t get an appointment for nearly 8

weeks, there was a 4-6 hour wait to receive medical services, most patients never saw the same provider, and more than 50 percent of our patients used the walk-in clinic for primary care. Faced with this challenge, YKHC confronted the issue of patient care and began taking the necessary steps to improve services for our patients.

Thanks to customer surveys and the hard work of employees throughout the organization, YKHC is proud to report we have increased patient satisfaction scores by 16 percent, our written customer complaints have decreased 30 percent, we have reduced appointment scheduling to 0-4 days, and patients now see a regular provider.

YKHC thanks you, our customers, for completing the Press Ganey surveys and we encourage you to continue using them to support our mission of “working together to achieve excellent health.”

see NURSES, p. 11Dave Evans and Ann Glasheen— March of Dimes Nurses of the Year.

YKHC’s nominees for March of Dimes Nurse of the year: Leigh Trammel, David Evans, Ann Glasheen, Virginia Jensen, Dawna Richardson and Rachelle White.

From left in front: Dr. Press of Press-Ganey, Barbara Jacobson, Marlene Nelson, Chairman of the Hospital Governing Body Gloria Simeon, Mary Ann Schaffer, Angela Hochreiter, Jason Hochreiter, Mae Engler. Back row: Paul Watson, Christine Pekar, Board Member Kathy Chase, and Dr. Ganey—the other part of Press-Ganey.

10

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: www.ykhc.org

Go NUTS—Go HEALTHY

Nuts have been unfairly treated by the low-fat fanatics during the last few decades, but now they are making a comeback.Studies conducted by Loma Linda University in California, and large study groups like Physician’s Health, the Iowa Women’s Health and the Harvard Nurses Health found that eating nuts helped decrease the risk of heart disease and lower the bad “LDL” cholesterol.

Nuts were also found to help keep weight down.Those studies were so pro-

found that in July 2003, the FDA approved the following health claim for nut package labels: “Scientific evidence suggests, but does not prove, that eating 1.5 ounces per day of some nuts, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease.”

Nuts, aside from being excellent sources of protein, minerals, “good” monounsaturated fats and being heart friendly, can easily sat-isfy hunger even in small amounts. The key with nuts is simply not to overeat them. Here are six of the healthiest:

Walnut – the king of nuts. It is a great source of the healthy omega-3 essential fatty acids, which have been found to protect the heart, promote better cognitive function, and provide anti-inflamma-tory benefits for asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, eczema and psoriasis. It also contains anti-oxidant compound that could fight cancer and support the immune system.

Almonds – because of their high fiber content are great for the colon, thereby reducing one’s risk for colon cancer. Almonds also are one of the best nuts for lowering cholesterol since 70 percent of the fat they contain is the healthy monounsaturated variety, which has been shown to help clear arteries.

Cashews – are lower in fat than most nuts, and 65 percent of this fat is unsaturated fatty acids. Of this, 90 percent is oleic acid, the heart-healthy fat found in olive oil. They are also rich in copper, mag-nesium, zinc, iron and biotin.

Pecans – found to help lower blood cholesterol and clear arteries when consumed as part of a heart-healthy diet. They are excellent source of vitamins A & E, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, copper, phosphorous, potassium, manganese, zinc and several B vitamins.

Brazil Nuts – a study at the University of Illinois found that the high amounts of selenium present in Brazil nuts may help prevent breast cancer.

Macadamia Nuts – has another blood cholesterol and LDL (bad) cholesterol lowering property. A study done in Hawaii University found that people who had added macadamia nuts to their diets for just one month had total cholesterol levels of 191, compared to 201 for those eating the typical American diet.

date. Throw away capsules or tablets that stick together, are harder or softer than normal, or cracked or chipped.

• Ask your pharmacist about any specific storage instructions.To prevent harm and poisonings, keep medications out of the

reach of children and pets. Most prescription vials from the phar-macy come with a “child-resistant” cap; however, this does not mean that the cap is 100 percent childproof.

Older adults or those who do not have children or pets in the home may prefer to request easy open caps from the pharmacy. In both cases, remember to store these medications in a secure place, such as on a top shelf, hidden from view and away from children’s reach.Where can I dispose of my medications?

Proper disposal of medications, whether they are prescription or over-the counter medications, is very important. Never throw away unused medication in the trash, even if it is in a “child-proof” con-tainer. Children or pets may find the medication and can get sick. Also, do not flush medications down the toilet. This can help prevent unintended contamination of water.

If medications are old, expired, or are no longer being used, you can bring them to your local pharmacy or village clinic for proper disposal and destruction.

Although pharmacies or village clinics are not legally obligated to accept expired medications from patients, most pharmacies do accept these medications. Most pharmacies have the means of proper medication disposal and destruction.

Some quick and easy tips and suggestions on adding nuts to your diet:• Add cashews or peanuts to your favorite stir-fry recipe.• Toss roasted pine nuts into pesto or marinara sauce and serve with

whole wheat pasta • Add slivered almonds to yogurt as a crunchy treat• Top your favorite non-fat frozen yogurt with a serving of peanuts• Enjoy water chestnuts with your favorite Asian dish. Add peanuts

to a Thai dish• Toss walnuts into a spinach and strawberry salad• Dish out pecan-crusted salmon your family is sure to love• Purchase trail mixes for a quick treat. Avoid one’s with added

sodium ,chocolate chips, coconut or those cooked in tropical oils.• Create your own homemade trail mix: add your favorite nut(s)

to whole-wheat chex, pretzel pieces, raisins, dates or other dried fruits. Package into snack-sized baggies and enjoy anytime.

• Chop up walnuts, almonds or pecans and mix into your favorite banana or zucchini bread recipe.

• Top minced or chopped pistachios onto non-fat vanilla pudding• Spread 2 Tbsp. peanut, almond or walnut butters onto celery sticks

for a quick snack..Excerpted from Nutrition Newsletter, Health Castle.

MEDICATIONS, from p. 8


Board Standing Committees:By-Law Committee

Joseph BavillaReuben HillBilly MorganMoses TulimMoses PeterHenry Hunter

Policy CommitteeJames Charlie, Sr.Gloria SimeonPaula AyunerakJames Landlord

Joint AVCP/YKHC/CalistaGene PeltolaRay Alstrom

Finance CommitteeMoses Peter, ChairEsai Twitchell, Jr.Moses TulimGloria SimeonJames NicoriBill KristovichRay Alstrom, Ex-OfficioGene Peltola, Ex-Officio

Board AppointmentsBehavioral Health Advisory Board

Billy Morgan; Sam W. Alexie, AlternateHealth Aide Advisory Board

Sam W. AlexiePA Scholarship Committee

Kathy W. ChaseAlaska Native Health Board

Bill Kristovich; Ray Alstrom, Alternate

Home Care Liaison James Sipary

AK Native Tribal Health ConsortiumRay Alstrom; Bill Kristovich, First Alternate; Gene Peltola, Second Alter-nate

Human StudiesSam Alexie, Gloria Simeon, Moses Peter, Ray Alstrom,

Inuit Development Diversified, LLCRay Alstrom, Gene Peltola

Special Committees:Housing Committee

William KristovichJames SiparyGene Peltola

Financial PolicyJames NicoriDavid O DavidJames LandlordGloria SimeonGene Peltola, Ex-Officio

Corp Compliance/Quality AssuranceDavid O DavidBill KristovichGloria SimeonJames Sipary, Sr., Moses PeterGene Peltola, Ex-Officio

Compensation CommitteeRay Alstrom, ChairBilly MorganJoe BavillaGloria SimeonGene Peltola, Ex-Officio

COMMITTEES, from p. 3Vaccination Champs

Outstanding vaccination champions recognizedChristine Desnoyers, YKHC’s Immunization Coordinator, and Jennifer Meyer from the Bethel Regional Public Health Center received Excellence in Immunization Awards from the Vac-cinate Alaska Coalition.

The coalition recognized the dynamic duo’s efforts to collaborate between YKHC and the Bethel Regional Public Health Center to get immunizations to people in the YK Delta. Eighty-eight percent of kids 19 to 35 months have up-to-date immunizations, compared to the state average of 75 percent.

The Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation also recieved a certificate of recognition for YKHC’s focus of efforts to support the safeguard of vaccine storage and handling procedures.

The Vaccinate Alaska Coalition annual confer-ence was held on November 15 in Anchorage.

Jennifer Meyer and Chris Denoyers were recognized for their collaboration efforts in vaccinating people of the Delta.

been recognized by his patients and colleagues as embodying strong nursing values and dedication to nursing care. “David’s beliefs are in the value of nursing and the power of nursing influence,” said Jacobson. “To our hospital, he exemplifies the true value of being a nurse.”

Ann Glasheen, a Nurse Practitioner and Case Manager for YKHC’s Women’s Health department, has provided care to mothers and newborns for 15 years. “Ann always says that she feels every birth is special,” said Jacobson. “She never fails to provide her best to everyone.”

“YKHC congratulates and appreciates our outstanding employees’ achievements and their commitment to quality patient care,” said Gene Peltola, President/ CEO of YKHC. “They make our commit-ment to providing excellent care a reality every day.”

The March of Dimes recognizes outstanding nurses whose lead-ership and contributions have made a significant impact in their communities and to the nursing profession. Founded in 1938 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, March of Dimes is a national asso-ciation and leader in the prevention of birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.

NURSES, from p. 9

with YKHC’s Dental Department to help promote awareness of good oral hygiene, making oral care the best it can be.”

The Bogus Creek 150 is operated by the Kuskokwim 300 Race Committee. While the K-300 is the Committee’s internationally acclaimed race attracting the world’s elite mushers, the Bogus Creek 150 attracts the YK Delta’s best regional mushers, and is highly touted in the mushing community as being one of the great-est short-distance races in the world.

MUSHING, from p. 6


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