WINTER 2025 3 New service alert! Pelvic floor therapy now offered at GCMH Inside 5 Pain relief: More options available for you Advanced treatment for your joint pain Orthopedics provider joins GCMH Specialty Clinic RICK’S STORY After a traditional knee replacement eight years ago, Rick chose GCMH and the Mako SmartRobotics technology for his second knee. “Night and day difference,” remarks Rick. Hear his story by scanning the QR code here: When movement becomes painful, know that specialized care is close to home! Board-certified Orthopedic Surgeon Robert Bartelt, MD, has been caring for patients in the GCMH Specialty Clinic and Surgery Department for more than 12 years. Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner Emma Koester, who recently completed her doctorate in nursing practice, joins Dr. Bartelt to see patients in the Specialty Clinic three days each week. “The expanded access to orthopedic care has allowed for more patients to be cared for locally,” says Specialty Clinic Administrator Kate Appel. “Together, Dr. Bartelt and Emma work closely with our Surgery and Physical Therapy departments to provide both nonsurgical and surgical options for a wide range of orthopedic conditions, including arthritis, joint pain, sports injuries, fractures and more.” For those who need orthopedic surgery, GCMH offers advanced technology. Mako SmartRobotics™ technology was introduced at GCMH one year ago and is used by Dr. Bartelt in total knee and hip replacement surgeries. “The robotic-assisted procedures generally allow for less postoperative pain, faster recovery and improved long-term outcomes after the surgery,” says Jessica Eilers, BSN, RN, who leads the hospital’s Surgery Department. “The Mako system uses 3D modeling and real-time data to guide the surgeon in creating a customized surgical plan for each of our patients, and we’ve seen great outcomes over the past 14 months.” In addition to knee and hip replacements, orthopedic services available at GCMH include scopes, rotator cuff repairs, ACL and meniscus repairs, carpal tunnel surgeries and more. “With two providers now seeing patients, we’re able to schedule visits fairly quickly, so people experience less wait time to be diagnosed and receive a treatment plan,” says Appel. “Options for surgery scheduling have expanded with the hospital’s new Surgery Department, featuring two new operating rooms and separate procedure room as well,” adds Eilers. Whether you are experiencing chronic pain or recovering from an injury, the orthopedic specialists at GCMH are committed to providing personal and compassionate care. By combining advanced treatments and technology with a patient-centered approach, they provide the care you need to get back to doing the things you love. Learn more at gcmh.link/ortho. Emma Koester, ARNP (left), with Robert Bartelt, MD, sees patients in the Specialty Clinic three days each week.
healthNEWS 2 As winter settles in across Iowa, knowing where to turn for medical care is more important than ever. Understanding the difference between primary care, urgent care and the Emergency Department (ED) can ensure that you receive the right treatment promptly. Recognizing symptoms Taking an inventory of your symptoms is the first step in deciding where to go for care. How long have the symptoms been occurring? How severe are they? Have they gotten worse? Have others close to you experienced similar symptoms recently? The chart below helps to explain the different care options available and what may be your best choice for care based on your symptoms. Flu, COVID-19 and strep throat tests can be conducted at any clinic setting and are well-suited for your primary care provider (PCP). Urgent care is a good option if it is after hours or a weekend for these types of symptoms GCMH: Committed to high-quality care By Eric Neverman, DO GCMH Chief Medical Officer Grundy County Memorial Hospital has long been focused on providing high-quality health care to the communities we serve. Recently, the hospital has further reinforced this commitment through innovative educational initiatives and successful accreditation efforts. As the hospital’s Chief Medical Officer, I worked with our staff education team to begin the implementation of a mock code program, which serves as a critical training exercise for the hospital’s care teams. As a rural critical access hospital, we thankfully do not see as many trauma or “code blue” situations as some larger hospitals, but it is vital that our teams be prepared for any emergency that may come our way. These simulated emergency scenarios allow our care teams to practice their response to life-threatening, high-stakes situations in a controlled environment. By honing their skills through these simulations, our team members enhance their preparedness and collaboration, ultimately improving patient outcomes during real emergencies. In addition, GCMH recently completed another successful survey with DNV, a health care accreditation agency. This annual evaluation assesses the hospital’s adherence to rigorous standards of safety and quality. Achieving and maintaining accreditation from DNV not only validates GCMH’s dedication to excellence, but also assures patients that they are receiving care from a facility that meets the highest benchmarks in health care. Together, the quality and continuous improvement measures in place reflect our hospital’s unwavering focus on excellence. By investing in education and upholding rigorous accreditation standards, GCMH continues to prioritize patient safety and deliver exceptional health care services to the patients we serve. as well. When symptoms are more serious, that’s when an ED visit becomes the best choice. Many PCPs offer virtual visits, making it easy to access care without braving the elements. Weather considerations Iowa’s harsh winters can affect your decision-making. If roads are unsafe, call ahead to check wait times and clinic availability. Primary care clinics, urgent care and the ED often see increased patient volumes during winter virus season. Knowing the differences between the ED, urgent care and your PCP helps you make informed health decisions and get the right treatment quickly. Stay safe this winter, and remember: When in doubt, always err on the side of caution. Primary care vs. urgent care vs. Emergency Department Where should you go for care? Scan the QR code on page 4 with your mobile device to learn how Erika wisely chose to visit the ER when she was experiencing unbearable abdominal pain. Where to go for care Primary care provider Schedule with your primary care provider’s office for all of your health care needs, including non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries. Your provider knows you and your medical history best. Urgent/Express care For non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses that still need immediate attention (such as fevers, infections or minor injuries), try to schedule with your primary care provider before opting for an urgent care/Express clinic. Emergency Department (ED) For a serious or life-threatening problem, such as heart attacks, strokes or serious injuries, go to the ED or call 911.
3 Pelvic floor therapy has become a service that is more highly sought after, and with growing awareness of pelvic floor issues comes the need for accessible, specialized care. That’s why GCMH is proud to introduce pelvic floor therapy as part of its Therapy Services Department. This addition aims to address a growing need for dedicated care that affects both men and women across all stages of life, including during pregnancy and postpartum recovery. Leading this initiative is Kelly Mathews, OTR/L, a seasoned occupational therapist with over 30 years of diverse experience in inpatient, outpatient and home health settings. Mathews’ passion for pelvic health has driven her to obtain advanced training, empowering her to provide exceptional care for patients facing a variety of pelvic health challenges. Mathews understands the vital role the pelvic floor plays in overall health and quality of life. She is committed to helping patients reclaim their well-being, build strength and enhance their daily experiences. Upcoming classes and events Register for classes at gcmh.link/events or scan the QR code below. Payment is requested at registration for classes that require it. Heartsaver First Aid CPR class Tuesday, Feb. 4, 5 to 7 p.m. This class combines online learning with in-person training at the hospital. Heartsaver First Aid CPR class Tuesday, April 8, 5 to 7 p.m. This class combines online learning with in-person training at the hospital. Diabetes Quarterly Education & Support Group Monday, Jan. 27, 1 to 2 p.m. Diabetes Prevention Program FREE Preview Monday, Feb. 10, 1 to 1:45 p.m. LiveWell Series: Good for You Food, Made Easy Monday, Feb. 17, March 17, April 21, 5 to 6:15 p.m. Love Your Heart FREE Heart Disease Risk Screening at Grundy Family YMCA Friday, Feb. 14, 6 to 7:45 a.m. Includes blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and body composition measurements. Call 319-825-6210 to reserve your spot. Fasting for 10 to 12 hours before is necessary. Diabetes Self-Management Education Provides the latest, most trusted education to people with diabetes. Talk with your doctor or call 319824‑5081 or 888-824-5081 to schedule a session. Kelly Mathews, OTR/L Pelvic floor therapy helps with a range of conditions ● Pelvic pain ● Trauma ● Postpartum recovery ● Pelvic organ prolapse ● Urinary incontinence ● Pregnancy ● Uterine or prostate cancer GET BACK TO WELL-BEING If you or someone you know could benefit from pelvic floor therapy, call 319-824-5097 to schedule your appointment. Many insurances do require a referral, so it may be necessary to see your primary care provider first. BUILDING A HEALTHIER YOU Introducing pelvic floor therapy at GCMH
When it comes to needing surgery, you may feel anxious or a sense of urgency to have the surgery so you can be on your way to recovery. The dedicated team at Grundy County Memorial Hospital (GCMH) is committed to delivering compassionate care, tailored to your unique needs, and timely access to essential surgical services. Our state-of-the-art Surgery Department, equipped with advanced infection control measures and additional operating rooms, prioritizes your safety and comfort. The hospital has three board-certified general surgeons who see patients in the GCMH Specialty Clinic for consultations and perform surgeries in the GCMH Surgery Department on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Paul Burgett, MD, FACS, a Cedar Valley Medical Specialists provider, sees patients on Tuesdays. Alison Wilson, MD, FACS, and Stephen Van Buren, MD, FACS, from McFarland Clinic, alternate seeing patients on Wednesdays at GCMH. Each surgeon brings expertise in diagnosing and managing a wide range of conditions that require surgical intervention. Together with the hospital’s Surgery Department nurses and technicians, they are committed to enhancing patient outcomes and delivering exceptional care. Specialty Clinic Visiting specialists Allergy, Skin Cancer, and Ear, Nose & Throat Kenny Rodriguez, MD Karen Sadler, ARNP 319-888-8044 Audiology Seema Arab Wilson, AuD 800-728-4327 Cardiology Kari Haislet, DNP, ARNP Micaela Rahm, ARNP 319-236-1911 Dermatology Angela Buttjer, PA-C 800-245-6246 Diabetes & Endocrinology Chitra Reddy, MD Deb Van Dyke, DNP, ARNP 319-222-2750 Gastroenterology/ Hepatology Srinivas Kalala, MD Tracy Elliott, ARNP 319-234-5990 General Surgery/ Colonoscopy Paul Burgett, MD, FACS 319-824-5081 Stephen Van Buren, MD, FACS Alison Wilson, MD, FACS 641-752-6391 Maternal Health & Family Planning Allen Women’s Health— Kathi Bower, ARNP, FNP-C 319-235-5090 Mental Wellness Megan Heise, ARNP, PMHNP Carly Pollock, LMHC Kristen Reichert, LISW 319-299-2864 Nephrology T. Michel Daoud, MD Vinay K. Kantamneni, MD 888-397-4575 Oncology Zoe Schult, ARNP 319-233-2701 Ophthalmology/ Cataract Surgery Benjamin Mason, MD 319-277-0103 Orthopedics Robert Bartelt, MD Emma Koester, ARNP 319-833-5381 Podiatry Stephen Solomon, DPM 319-824-5081 Alison Wilson, MD, FACS Paul Burgett, MD, FACS Stephen Van Buren, MD, FACS BUILDING A HEALTHIER YOU General surgery, right here at GCMH Comprehensive surgical services A full range of surgeries and procedures is offered, including: ● Biopsies ● Colonoscopies ● Hernia repairs ● Gallbladder and appendix surgeries ● Endoscopic procedures ● Mole removals 4 Erika Pottebaum, a new athletic trainer at GCMH, recently experienced our commitment to patient care firsthand. After waking up with abdominal pain, she knew her first move was to head straight to the GCMH Emergency Department. She was quickly diagnosed with appendicitis, and Dr. Burgett was available to perform her emergency appendectomy right here without needing to leave the hospital. Scan the QR code to learn more about Erika’s journey and how her recovery is enabling her to continue supporting local athletes. The surgeons also specialize in minimally invasive techniques, which can reduce recovery time and enhance your overall experience. For more information about general surgery at GCMH, visit gcmh.link/generalsurgery.
Anti-Coagulation Pain Management Wound Healing Hospital services Sleep Center Infusion Therapy Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation For a complete list of GCMH services, visit gcmh.link/services. Chronic pain can significantly impact one’s quality of life, making effective pain management essential. The GCMH Pain Management Clinic offers comprehensive care tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. Providers Rich Jacobson, DNP, CRNA, and Keith Barnhill, PhD, CRNA, ARNP, from Heartland Pain Management, see patients six days each month at GCMH to help them navigate their pain management journeys. Their compassionate approach ensures that each patient receives personalized treatment aimed at improving functionality and enhancing overall well-being. Pain management is not a one-sizefits-all approach. That’s why the providers take the time to thoroughly assess each individual’s condition and needs. A range of treatments is available to ease chronic symptoms, including: ● Neck pain ● Back pain ● Joint pain ● Sympathetic nerve pain ● Pain that travels from the neck or back through the arms and/or legs You have options Possible treatments include a variety of different injections, including x-ray-guided joint injections. One specific pain relief system is Iovera®, which is available for patients before undergoing knee replacement surgery, aiding in the recovery and pain mitigation after the surgery. Pain management can also involve interventions such as physical therapy and medications. The goal is to find alternatives for acute narcotics by implementing more conservative treatments, such as injections and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. Chronic pain can be the result of certain conditions, such as radiculopathy (a pinched nerve) or degenerative disk disease, or an injury or other chronic condition. Most patients are seen three to five times over a period of two to three months, depending on the treatment plan designed for them. If you or a loved one is struggling with chronic pain, don’t hesitate to reach out. The GCMH Pain Management Clinic is here to help you find relief and reclaim your life. For more information about our services, call the GCMH Pain Management Clinic nurse at 319-824-4140. Keith Barnhill, PhD, CRNA, ARNP Rich Jacobson, DNP, CRNA Join our team! Finding relief from pain Pain Management Clinic at GCMH now offers expanded access Featured SERVICE A nurse in the Pain Management Clinic talks with a patient about his symptoms and possible treatments. Physical Therapy Diabetes Education 5
Standard U.S. Postage PAID Grundy County Memorial Hospital 201 E. J Ave. Grundy Center, IA 50638 2025 © Coffey Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Information in LIVE WELL comes from a wide range of medical experts. If you have any concerns or questions about specific content that may affect your health, please contact your health care provider. Models may be used in photos and illustrations. LIVE WELL is published as a community service for the residents of the service area of Grundy County Memorial Hospital, 201 East J Ave., Grundy Center, IA 50638, grundycountyhospital.org, 319-824-5421 Adam Scherling President Kelly Jans Manager, Marketing Communications Kate Goecke Marketing Communications Specialist Crystal Petersen Director, Wellness and Nutrition Services New year, better you By Crystal Petersen, RDN, LD Director, Wellness and Nutrition Services Rather than relying on New Year’s resolutions or willpower, make this the year you move forward with healthier eating, focusing on small, simple habits to boost your overall health. No matter your age or health status, shifting food choices for the better and cleaning up haphazard eating routines can benefit everyone. Avoid packaged snacks Make room for nourishing food by clearing your pantry of packaged snacks and sweets, such as cookies, candy, granola, breakfast and energy bars, muffins, and chips. These items are highly processed and generally are high in refined starches and added sugars, fats and salt. Stock nourishing foods Start simple. Choose 100% whole-grain bread. Keep a variety of beans on hand to add to salads, soups and casseroles—or for mashing up as a sandwich spread or easy dip. Display a bowl of fresh fruit on the counter rather than a candy dish. Trade in nuts instead of chips for a dose of healthy fats. Variety and balance are key A wide variety of food is key to getting the vitamins and minerals you need to stay healthy. Eating on the run, mindless munching and fad diets will not serve your health and energy level well. Get on track by establishing a regular rhythm of meals—a meal or snack every four hours or so. Plan ahead so you know what you will be eating for the next couple of meals. Include foods from at least three food groups, using MyPlate as a guide. These small improvements in food choices and eating patterns can make a difference as you do your best to maintain good health and avoid preventable, unwanted weight gain or health conditions. Primary care, urgent care or ER? Here’s how to know where to go when you’re not sure what type of care you need. page 2 Words to know Here’s what I mean by these terms: Refined starches. Carbohydrates that are lower in quality because, during processing, they have been stripped of natural nutrients, such as fiber. Added sugars. Sugars and syrups added to foods during processing. Highly processed food. Food changed from its natural form, often having higher saturated fat, sugar and sodium content than less-processed foods. Phytonutrients. Naturally occurring compounds, beyond vitamins and minerals, found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, beans, herbs, spices, nuts and seeds. Nutrient-dense. Foods high in nutrients and low in calories. They contain vitamins, minerals, complex carbohydrates, lean protein and healthy fats. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat or fat-free milk products, seafood, lean meats, eggs, peas, beans, and nuts are examples.
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