in thecommunitys p r i n g 2 0 1 4

building carearound you

page 3

hospicereaches outpage 6

meet your community educators

page 10

strategies to stay @ homepage 4

Often, people think of a hospital system as something they go TO when they need help or information. At NOCHS, we want to take a different approach. We want to bring our care to you. We’ll always be here, as a hospital, to welcome you as we take care of things like emergencies, performing surgeries and diagnostic tests, etc. But we believe that by offering more preventive care out in the community, the better – and healthier – we can all become.

That’s why we established the North Ottawa Medical Group. This is our own team of doctors, working for your community health system, who are focused on your overall health and wellness. They are your neighbors, caring for your health as award-winning, board-certified doctors, nurse-midwives, physician assistants and nurse practitioners. Their mission? To develop a personal, long-term relationship with you, as well as be our community’s most trusted, local partner in creating a healthier future for all. Find out more about these doctors at northottawamedicalgroup.org.

That’s also why we have a full continuum of community-based services such as Home Care (Nursing and Equipment), ancillary sites where you can find lab draw stations, physical therapy and x-ray, a fleet of EMS ambulances, a retail pharmacy (Dunewood Pharmacy), Urgent Care, as well as Hospice Care. Some of these services can come to your home, while others are just a half mile from the hospital.

This magazine aims to keep you updated on all the services NOCHS has outside of the hospital you’ve known and trusted for nearly 100 years. NOCHS has more than 300 people working in professions out in the community – all with the goal of helping our friends, neighbors and family heal and/or age in place. We are also helping you stay well to begin with by keeping you informed about educational events and community activities in which we are participating.

If there are services or providers you’d like to learn more about within the NOCHS community, let us know so we can include them in upcoming issues of “In The Community,” by emailing us at nochs@noch.org.

spring 2014 | noch.org

!

3

If you’re wondering when to call, it’s time to call.

Most people think of calling Hospice in the final days of life, when there’s nothing more that can be done. The truth is, by calling sooner there is so much more to gain. More time to cherish friendships. More time to laugh. More time to remember when. More time to embrace family. More time to focus on love. We are here to help you through life’s difficult decisions and details. The sooner we’re involved, the more time you gain to spend on what matters most. Being there.

Hospice of North Ottawa Community

616.846.2015 nochhospice.org

what’s happening in

Home Care Equipment & Nursing ..............4-5 Hospice of North Ottawa Community........6-7

North Ottawa Care Centerat Heartwood Lodge..................8

Bereavement Services.................9

Diabetes & Community Education...............................10

communityin the

building carearound you

Urgent Care Center : 1091 S. Beacon Blvd., Grand HavenMonday-Friday 9:00 am-7:00 pmSaturday & Sunday 9:00 am-4:00 pmPhone: 616.604.0096

When you experience a minor illness or injury, our Urgent Care Center is an excellent choice for care. Staffed and equipped to provide prompt, practical medical attention to walk-in patients, the Urgent Care Center can handle everything from a sore throat to a sports physical, seven days-a-week. We even offer free blood pressure checks!

Urgent Care Center

Managing increased physical challenges is a natural part of aging. Difficultly standing or sitting, maintaining balance while walking, as well as grasping or gripping objects are the kinds of things that can occur making it difficult to stay independent and continue living in your own home.

If you or a loved one is struggling with these types of difficulties, a Home Care Assessment may be in order.

NOCHS’ Home Care division includes traveling skilled nurses and an equipment company. Home Care Nursing provides many options that enable patients - from newborns to seniors - to get the healthcare they need, where they need it…at home. Homecare nurses works closely with

your physician to provide a wide variety of medical care, physical, occupational and speech therapy, personal care, medication supervision and nutritional counseling. While under our care, our trained staff provides consultation to solve any matter involving home care treatment, equipment or service. To initiate a Home Care Assessment, call Home Care Nursing at 616.847.9090 today.

Home Care

Equipment&Nursing

strategies to stay @ home

There are many products available that provide easy solutions to these challenges and are designed to be used in your home. Here is just a sample of the products available to you at our Home Care Equipment retail location that may help you or loved one facing these types of challenges. Questions about a product you didn’t read about here? Call us at 616.846.0360.

Bathroom Solutions:Hand held showerLong handled spongeToilet safety railElevated toilet seatTub transfer bench Shower seatsGrab bars

Bedroom Solutions:Bed railsStand polesOver-bed-tablesBed Wedge cushionsDressing aids for buttons, socks, shoesElbow & heel pads

Living room Solutions:Lift chairsCouch CaneHandle extender for reclinersChair raisersWater proof fleece throws (to protect furniture discretely) Door knob adapter (easy opening for round door knobs)

Kitchen Solutions:Easy grip utensilsWeighted utensilsSpecialty plates for those with use of one handPlate lipsReachers

•••••••

••••••

•••••

•

•••••

20%

off your entire purchase*

Home Care Equipment1071 S. Beacon Blvd. Grand Haven

616.846.0360

*Discount can be applied to your entire in-store cash purchase. Coupon will be redeemed at time of sale. Expires 6/1/2014.

Free Walker AssessmentThe right assistive device can make the difference between being at high risk for falling or being safe and staying mobile. Join NOCHS’ Home Care Equipment and Nursing team for a free walker assessment to renew functional operation, safety and even make adjustments, if needed.

WHERE: NOCHS’ Home Care Equipment, 1071 S. Beacon Blvd., Grand HavenWHEN: Wednesday, May 14 from 9:00 am - 12:00 pmBRING: Your walker

Every year in the United States, nearly one-third of people age- 65+ experience a fall. Among these older adults, falls are the leading cause of injury deaths and the most common cause of nonfatal

injuries and hospital admissions for trauma. More than half of all fall injuries among older people

occur inside the home, and an additional 23 percent happen outside, but near the home.

Hospice ofNorth Ottawa Community

Hospice Volunteer Opportunities

spring 2014 | noch.org 7

Hold a hand, offer beauty services, play an instrument, perform massage services, feed a pet, give spiritual support, bake a cake, sit at the bedside, make phone calls, listen to cherished memories, lotion hands, give a hug, touch a heart.

However you choose to volunteer for Hospice of North Ottawa, it will be greatly appreciated. Whether you want to work directly with patients and families or in another role, you can make a big difference in someone’s life, including your own.

Did you know?Training is provided at no costVolunteer locations are within our communityDaytime, evening and weekend options are availableVolunteer as little or as much as you would likeNo experience or medical background is necessary

Interested in Volunteering? Fill out the application online at noch.org to receive more information about upcoming volunteer trainings and volunteering for Hospice of North Ottawa Community or contact Kristyn Ireland, Manager of Volunteer Services for NOCHS @ 616.847.5215.

•

•

•

•

•

covered under Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans. In most cases, that coverage begins immediately following a terminal diagnosis, so there is no need to wait. In fact, in many cases, engaging with the hospice team can actually result in lower medical bills. Hospice care providers monitor and manage a patient’s illness, which can help avoid the need for expensive Emergency Room visits and life saving measures.

“When it comes to hospice care, a good rule to follow is -- the sooner the better,” said Dr. Tom Alguire, Medical Director of Hospice of North Ottawa Community. “The hospice care team not only offers medical care for the patient, but also socio-economic, psychological and spiritual benefits to the patient and their families. The earlier they engage with this service the more support and comfort they can provide. Further, studies show that early engagement can actually cause patients to live longer because their pain is managed, there are fewer crises and there is significantly less stress.”

If you belong to an organization that would benefit by hearing this presentation, please contact Colleen VanPutten at 616.935.7852.

Each year during the holiday season, Hospice of North Ottawa Community invites the local community to honor or memorialize a loved one by making a donation to its “Tree of Life” Campaign. In recognition of a donation, a customized dove ornament, featuring the honoree’s name is placed on a decorated holiday tree, where it can be viewed and celebrated by all who visit. This past season, the Hospice Tree of Life was on display in the lobby of Grand Haven’s Community Center throughout the month of December. The 2013 campaign raised more than $12,000, thanks to the generosity of our community.

Donations to the Tree of Life Campaign give ongoing financial support that enables Hospice of North Ottawa Community to continue its mission of providing compassionate care for those dealing with terminal illness. That care includes the health system’s bereavement program that is available, free of charge, to anyone experiencing a death related loss.

This winter, Hospice of North Ottawa Community launched an educational campaign designed to help patients and families better understand hospice care and when to seek out a hospice provider. Research has shown that for a variety of reasons, many patients wait until after a major medical event to engage with hospice care, which can limit benefits to the patient and their families. The campaign from Hospice of North Ottawa Community, which includes billboard, print and radio advertising as well

as speaking engagements, and a 30-minute segment on Grand Haven’s Community Access Channel 98, hopes to change that with its, “If You’re Wondering When to Call Hospice, it’s Time to Call Hospice,” messaging.

One of the most significant reasons that patients delay

seeking hospice care is concerns about the cost, which can be a significant burden for many patients and families facing a terminal illness. The Hospice of North Ottawa Community campaign helps patients understand that hospice care is

THURSDAY, MAY 15, 2014 @SPRING LAKE COUNTRY CLUB

INDIVIDUAL TICKETS - $50

To purchase your tickets contact Abbei at amonroe@noch.org or call 616.847.5661

LYNNE SHERWOODJOHN & NANCY CARLYLE

SPONSORED IN PART BY

Excluding $30 per attendee, your contribution is tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.

&

hospicereaches out

tree of life

Hospice of North Ottawa Community has been providing hospice services to patients in their own homes, nursing homes, assisted living centers and hospitals for more than thirty years. Also, part of Hospice of North Ottawa Community is an eight-bed Hospice Residence at Heartwood Lodge in Spring Lake, which features a home-like residence and round-the-clock care for patients and families, who are unable to remain in their own residence.

As a private, non-profit organization, we depend on the generous, philanthropic assistance of the community we serve. The Hospice Residence at Heartwood Lodge has an unique opportunity to honor or memorialize a loved one.

Outside of the Hospice Residence is a beautiful garden designed by Michigan State University Master Gardener volunteers. The outdoor walkway, laden with bricks priced at $250 winds through the garden. We hope you will consider supporting Hospice of North Ottawa Community through a general donation, or one given in memory or honor of a loved one.

If you would like to purchase a brick please call our Fund Development office at 616.847.5605.

leaving a legacy

HOSpICE HERO HONOREESJAMES & SHARON VANDYKEDR. TED & JOAN VANDERVEENNANCY EDELMAYER, IN MEMORIAMTHE FOUNDERS OF HOSPICE OF NORTH OTTAWA COMMUNITY

8 spring 2014 | noch.org spring 2014 | noch.org 9

Defining restorative nursing therapyA sense of purpose. As sense of accomplishment. A sense of community. These are the tenants of the Restorative Health Program at North Ottawa Care Center. This integrated nursing, rehabilitation and social care plan envelops and engages the whole person, as opposed to focusing on fragmented aspects of care, a specific injury or ailment. The program is designed to use daily activity to optimize physical and cognitive functioning and minimize decline. In doing so, we can help avoid decreased mobility, as well as the feelings of depression that lead to withdrawal and social isolation.

Irene Hale and Her Restorative Success … Born and raised in Michigan, Irene has spent a lifetime enjoying all that nature has to offer – from farming and

gardening to annual family camping trips and plenty of long walks on trails and along the Great Lakes’ beaches. A self-described multi-tasker, she balanced being a mother of four with a career working with adults with special needs, while finding time for

hobbies that included embroidery work, cooking and entertaining for friends and family.

But in October 2011 a stroke, followed by a hip fracture, left her unable to return home from the hospital.

When she arrived North Ottawa Care Center, she made it clear that she intended not only to heal, but to regain as much independence as possible. Initially, she required assistance with routine, daily tasks such as getting in and out of bed and using the restroom. Working within a personalized Restorative Program regimen, Irene is not only managing those same routine, daily activities with independence, but she is also able to walk again. And, she continues to make progress and grow her list of accomplishments. If you have questions about the program at North Ottawa Care Center at Heartwood Lodge, please call us at 616.842.0770.

restoring

life

NOCC Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteers are a vital part of our patients’ care at NOCC. Volunteer Opportunities include: Visiting with patients; assisting with resident activities such as bingo, sing-alongs, crafts and special events. Please contact Kristyn at 616.847.5215.

North Ottawa Care Centerat Heartwood Lodge

BereavementServices

“I have enjoyed my stay at Heartwood Lodge and thank my restorative care team for helping me to be able to get up and moving again. – Irene Hale

“

In 1982, Hospice of North Ottawa Community was established to meet an important and growing need in our community – helping patients and their families navigate and embrace end-of life-care. It was the first of its kind on the lakeshore and became a “best practice” that would spur the development of other hospice programs throughout the region in the years that followed.

Upon its founding, and ever since, the program included a special component that made our Hospice care special: comprehensive, free bereavement services. At that time, bereavement services were only available to Hospice families.

In 2000, we received a grant from NOCHS’ Hospice Endowment Board to research and develop a plan to expand bereavement services beyond hospice-related care. We also received support from local schools, churches, other health care providers and the Herman Miller Foundation, all of which recognized the need to increase access to bereavement counseling to anyone in our community suffering a loss – regardless of whether or not they were involved with Hospice.

With this funding, our Community Bereavement Program was established. Since then, the program has sustained itself for nearly 15 years thanks to the support of individual donors.

Bereavement services include:

Grief CounselingProvided to both children and adults by trained bereavement counselors, sessions may take place in the home or at Hospice offices.

Group SupportOn-going group provides emotional support and resources that explore the many aspects of dealing with grief.

Lunch BunchLunch time social outings for anyone who has lost a loved one through death.

Informational Resources/ReferralsMaterials and/or suggestions provided upon request to those needing support. Appropriate referral options provided if indicated.

HeartpointsSpecialized support for those who have suffered the loss of a baby through miscarriage, stillbirth or neonatal death.

Monthly MailingsA thirteen-month series of informative bereavement letters and articles.

Annual Memorial ServiceCandle light service open to the community.

a service of compassion

Grief resources for community organizations:

Churches and Community Agencies

Grief related presentations for small or large groupsAssistance developing bereavement ministriesCurrent and effective grief support materials

Healthcare and Human Service providers

On-site staff support and/or training with a focus on workplace griefClinical in-services related to increasing the awareness and response to issues of loss and grief in ourselves and those we serve

Businesses (Grief in the Workplace)

On-site support in response to death in the workplaceGroup presentations and/or individual support available

SchoolsHelp for the Hard Times – six week student grief supportStaff in-services about bereavement support and responding to a crisis

For more information, please call NOCHS Community Bereavement program at 616.846.2015.

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Diabetes & Community

Education

10 spring 2014 | noch.org

we know you wellTo learn more about North Ottawa Medical Group, visit us online at NorthOttawaMedicalGroup.org.

North Ottawa Medical Group is excited to welcome four new providers to our community.

welcom

e

Diana Okuniewski, DO is Board Certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and is skilled in all areas of Women’s Health including robotic-assisted surgery, reproductive health/infertility, as well as labor and delivery. A Michigan native, Dr. Okuniewski received her medical degree from Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her Internship and Residency at Ingham Regional Medical Center in Lansing. Dr. Okuniewski is welcoming new patients. Please call 616.847.2500 to schedule your appointment.

Lisa Veach is a Certified Nurse Midwife and Family Nurse Practitioner. Working closely with our OB/GYN’s, her advanced training in common medical conditions, prevention and Women’s Health allows her to serve as a patient’s regular health care provider. Lisa is welcoming new patients. Please call 616.847.2500 to schedule your appointment.

Haney Assaad, MD joined the Internal Medicine Practice. He earned his medical degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine and completed his internal medicine residency at the University of South Florida College of Medicine. Dr. Assaad previously practiced as a Hospitalist at NOCHS and is the immediate-past Chief of Staff at NOCHS. Dr. Assaad is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and is welcoming new patients. Please call 616.844.4701 to schedule your appointment.

Christine M. Ryan, DO joined the Family Medicine Practice. She earned her Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Erie, PA. After completing her residency at St. John Macomb-Oakland Hospital, she began her tenure with the Henry Ford Medical Group where she practiced before relocating to Grand Haven. Dr. Ryan is Board Certified in Family Medicine and is welcoming new patients. Please call 616.847.1860 to schedule your appointment.

Have diabetes? Get educated! The number one question people with Diabetes ask us is, “What can I eat?” The answer is: “Anything you want!” That’s right. All foods can fit into your meal plan. In fact, there is no such thing as a “diabetic diet” anymore and we’re here to help you with that.

Spreading out your food and counting carbohydrates (carbs) is the goal for meal planning. We didn’t say “no carbs” either. Fuel (energy) comes from carbs. Portion control is key.

Our diabetes duo, Mary Cunningham, RD, CDE and Diane Jones, RN, CDE, will teach you the latest information with practical skills that will help you successfully manage your diabetes.

Stop depriving yourself of the foods you love and call 616.935.7810 to schedule an appointment today.

Upcoming Diabetes & Community Education EventsAll events are located at our new location within South Beacon Plaza (1071 S. Beacon Blvd., Grand Haven) located next to Urgent Care.

Low Cost Health ScreeningsFind out if you’re at risk for heart or thyroid disease, stroke, prostate cancer or diabetes. Costs vary per test. Screenings by Appointment. pre-registration is required: (616) 847-5512.When: Wednesday, May 14, 7:00-10:00 am

Wednesday, June 18, 7:00-10:00 am Wednesday, July 16, 7:00-10:00 amWednesday, August 13, 7:00-10:00 am

Diabetes Group Education ClassesDiabetes hasn’t changed, but the education has. Discover how to eat cookies, lose weight and have a good control of your diabetes. Includes one individual assessment and three classes. pre-registration is required: (616) 847-5332. When: May 6, 13, 20 & 27 @ 9:00 am

May 8, 15, 22 & 29 @ 6:00 pm June 3, 10, 17 & 24 @ 9:00 am June 5, 12, 19 & 29 @ 6:00 pm July 8, 15, 22, 29 @ 9:00 am July 10, 17, 26 & 31 @ 6:00 pm August 5, 12, 19 & 26 @ 9:00 am August 7, 14, 21 & 28 @ 6:00 pm

Diabetes RefresherRefocus, re-energize and renew your diabetes self-management skills. This class is designed for individuals who completed initial education and want to learn more. pre-registration is required: (616) 847-5332. When: April 29 @ 9:30 am May 1 @ 6:00 pm

Heartsaver CPR & First AidTeaches Heartsaver CPR for adults and children, relief in choking in adults and children, as well as how to manage illness and injuries in the first few minutes before emergency help arrives. Pre-registration and pre-payment required; class size is limited. Class fee is $65 for CPR and First Aid. $45 for just CPR. $25 for just First Aid. To register call (616) 844-4659.When: April 19 @ 9:00 am

May 17 @ 9:00 am

meet our community educators

Pictured: (left) Diane Jones, RN, CDE and Mary Cunningham, RD, CDE.

NOCHS’ Community Education offers a variety of low cost classes for anyone within our community, including low cost health screenings, new parent classes, postpartum depression help and CPR training.

Laura Bronold, RN, is a Certified Childbirth Educator and Perinatal Resource Coordinator. Laura coordinates and teaches family education classes including childbirth preparation, childbirth refresher and sibling class, and leads the Postpartum Adjustment Group. Laura works closely

with North Ottawa Medical Group’s Women’s Health office and the Family Birthing Unit to screen all pregnant and postpartum women for risks and symptoms of postpartum depression and anxiety. She provides education and emotional support, connects women and their families with community resources and professionals who provide specialized counseling and therapy. Laura also hosts our monthly, low-cost health screenings to help those who are under or uninsured find out if they are at risk for heart or thyroid disease, stroke, prostate cancer or diabetes.

Nicole Bray is our CPR Coordinator, who trains anyone looking to learn or become recertified in this life-saving skill. She also offers new parents an infant and child CPR class to keep babies safe, and for the tweens and teens a babysitting 101 class where basic first aid and lifesaving skills are taught.

Pictured: (left) Laura Bronold, RN and Nicole Bray.

1309 Sheldon RoadGrand Haven, MI 49417

ww

w.

noch.org

Individual & Family Care

Community Healthcare Services

Hospital Treatment & Services

North Ottawa Community Health System’s continuum of care begins with our Medical Group of Internal, Family and Women’s Health providers. These professionals are not only here in times of illness, but they are also here to keep the community healthy. From there, our community-based services, (e.g. Urgent Care, Home Care Equipment and Nursing, Community Education) continue helping people stay well and aging in place. In times of injury or significant/sustained illness, those services are coordinated with our hospital and often times with our skilled nursing facility. Our continuum completes itself with end-of-life care through Hospice of North Ottawa Community.

If you would like to receive NOCHS IN THE COMMUNITY in your inbox or to opt out, please email Abbei at amonroe@noch.org