3 Mobile imaging available at GCMH Inside 5 See how our pharmacists can help you At Grundy County Memorial Hospital (GCMH), we are always looking for ways to meet the needs of our patients and community members in the rural area that we serve. One gap that has been identified is in the area of specialized therapies for pediatric patients. Local primary care providers often need to refer their pediatric patients for services such as physical, occupational and speech therapy. Thankfully, they are now able to refer patients for those services right here at GCMH: ● Jenni Sutton, DPT, provides physical therapy for patients of all ages, but she specializes in pediatrics. She has experience working in the NICU with premature patients and has been seeing patients at GCMH for the past two years. ● Occupational therapy services are offered by Margo Dierdorff, OTR/L, along with certified occupational therapy assistant Nancy Keller. ● Most recently, Sierra Wiebensohn, MA, CCC-SLP, joined the team to offer pediatric speech therapy services. No more need to travel Offering all three therapy modalities at GCMH has allowed parents to get the care their kids need, close to home. “We have worked hard to build a team that meets the needs identified for pediatric physical, occupational and speech therapy services,” says Eric Neverman, DO, GCMH Chief Medical Officer and Internist and Pediatrician at UnityPoint Clinic Family Medicine – Grundy Center. “Having the ability to refer my patients for these services locally, many of which require multiple weekly visits, makes it much more convenient for them and their families.” Therapy services are very specialized, and the team at GCMH has been trained and continues to gain expertise and certifications in the pediatrics field. Therapy services are often recommended for children who are not meeting developmental milestones or have genetic conditions, gait abnormalities and/or neurological disorders. These children need extra support to help them thrive. Grateful patients One family, from Ackley, is especially thankful for the pediatric therapy services provided at GCMH, as they would have had to travel over an hour for care if these services weren’t provided in Grundy Center. Marshall and Coralie, twins, were born at 23 weeks gestational age and spent months in the NICU before going home. The twins, now 3 years old, are patients of Dr. Neverman, and he referred them for physical and occupational therapy services at GCMH. Marshall also receives speech therapy at GCMH. Their mom, Alexus, is so grateful for the care her twins are receiving and the strides they are making. “Everyone is so wonderful at GCMH! Since Marshall and Coralie began coming for therapy services, I have noticed so many strides and improvements in their physical and cognitive abilities.” Helping kids thrive Comprehensive pediatric therapies at GCMH WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT PEDIATRIC THERAPIES AT GCMH? Visit gcmh.link/pediatrictherapy or scan the QR code. Ask your pediatrician to refer you to the compassionate specialists at GCMH. Right here—ready to care for you. SPRING 2025
healthNEWS 2 GCMH now offers the latest advancement in cataracts: dropless cataract procedures. Benjamin Mason, MD, a boardcertified ophthalmologist from Wolfe Eye Clinic, performs these procedures monthly in GCMH’s new state-of-the-art Surgery Department. Cataracts, a common eye condition among older adults, occur when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, leading to vision problems. Traditional cataract surgery involves replacing the lens with a synthetic intraocular lens, followed by daily post-surgery eye drops for an extended period. The dropless procedure eliminates the need for eye drops, injecting a medication into the eye during the surgery to reduce inflammation. This approach benefits patients who struggle with managing multiple drops or worry about missing doses. Who qualifies? Not everyone is a candidate for dropless procedures. Ideal candidates generally have a stable eye condition without any complicating factors, like significant inflammation, complex eye diseases or allergies to the medications used. Those with a history of eye infections or trauma may still need traditional, post-surgery drops to ensure the best outcome. If you’re interested, you should first talk to your eye doctor, who can evaluate your condition and coordinate with an ophthalmologist. Dalila Husidic, OD, and Stefanie Rohler, OD, local optometrists at Wolfe Eye Clinic in Grundy Center, and other local eye doctors provide comprehensive eye exams and consultations. If you are a candidate for traditional or dropless cataracts, you can ask to be referred to Dr. Mason and have the procedure done at GCMH. If cataracts are affecting your vision, schedule a consultation to see if the dropless procedure is right for you. By Adam Scherling, MHA GCMH President As the largest employer in Grundy County, we take pride in advancing educational opportunities for students. Investing in our future is fundamental to our long-term success and aligns with our mission and vision. At GCMH, our workforce is our most important asset, which is why advancing talent and culture is at the heart of our strategic plan. I’m excited to highlight some of our current initiatives. Career fairs. In 2023, Allen College received a U.S. Department of Education grant to raise awareness of rural healthcare careers through in-person and online opportunities. GCMH partners with Allen College to host career fairs, giving local high school students a firsthand look behind the scenes in several of our departments, including Surgery, Lab and Radiology. Scholarships. Each year, the GCMH Foundation awards scholarships to students in accredited healthcare programs. This year, eligibility expanded to high school seniors planning to enroll in healthcare career programs. Many of these scholarship winners return to work at GCMH. Nurse externship program. Our new RN externship program allows nursing students to be employed on a short-term basis and gain hands-on clinical experience before graduation. Student rotations. We offer students experiences in several areas, including in the areas of physical therapy, radiology and nursing. We recently hosted third-year medical students from Des Moines University, providing education on pulmonary function testing. We love hosting students for their clinical rotations and look forward to hosting more! As we continue to foster our workforce and culture, we remain committed to cultivating the next generation of caregivers. We are honored our team members choose to work at GCMH and provide exceptional care to the communities we serve. Investing in the future of health care Dropless cataract procedures Benjamin Mason, MD Enhance the patient experience: Join our PFAC! Help improve care by joining the Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC). Members work with hospital staff to share feedback, shape policies, and make sure patient and family needs come first. Apply at gcmh.link/patientexperience or scan the QR code.
3 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, June 10, 5 to 7 p.m. This class combines online learning with in-person training at the hospital. Heartsaver First Aid CPR class Tuesday, Aug. 5, 5 to 7 p.m. This class combines online learning with in-person training at the hospital. Safe Sitter Babysitting Course Monday, June 16, 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Diabetes Quarterly Education & Support Group Monday, July 28, 1 to 2 p.m. GCMH dietitians facilitate a diabetes and diabetes prevention support group program every three months. Persons managing diabetes, caring for someone with diabetes or who have completed the Diabetes Prevention Program are welcome to attend. Healthy living and practical strategies to reduce the risk of complications and diabetesrelated diseases are emphasized. There is no cost to attend, but registration is requested. Grundy County Memorial Hospital (GCMH) offers advanced imaging services, including the latest digital PET/CT scanner, bringing high-quality diagnostic care right here to our community. For patients who have difficulty traveling long distances or who prefer the convenience of local care within Grundy County, GCMH provides mobile imaging services twice a month for certain modalities that are not on-site 24/7. This service is especially beneficial for immunocompromised or oncology patients who appreciate having local access to advanced imaging. The new PET/CT scanner is brought to GCMH every other Tuesday. What is digital PET/CT? The digital PET/CT scanner at GCMH is a game-changer in diagnostic imaging, combining two powerful modalities into one system. PET (positron emission tomography) and CT (computed tomography) work together to offer a comprehensive view of your body, revealing both its structure and how it functions. It’s like having a bird’s-eye view of your body, seeing both the inside and outside simultaneously. A digital PET/CT scan merges these two technologies in one exam. PET detects changes in how your cells use nutrients like sugar and oxygen, which can indicate early stages of disease. Meanwhile, CT provides detailed images of your body’s internal structures. Together, these scans give doctors a complete picture of your metabolic activity and anatomy, allowing for more accurate diagnoses and better treatment decisions. This advanced imaging technology helps catch potential health issues early, often before symptoms even appear, leading to faster, more effective care. What are the benefits? ● Fast and efficient: A whole-body scan can be completed in just eight minutes, reducing wait times. ● Low radiation dose: The system’s sensitivity allows for low-dose PET scans, minimizing radiation exposure. ● Better image quality: The system provides clearer images, even for patients with joint replacements or metal implants. ● Comfortable and accessible: The large scanning table accommodates patients of all sizes, and whole-body scans are completed in a single position, reducing the need to move patients. The truck can also now dock right outside the doors, so patients can access the truck within a few steps. GCMH’s digital PET/CT scanner provides local, high-quality diagnostic services for our community. With fast, accurate scans and convenient access, patients can receive the care they need without the hassle of long travel. To learn more or schedule an appointment, call 319-824-5081. PET/CT imaging at GCMH
Specialty Clinic Visiting specialists Allergy, Skin Cancer, Ear, Nose & Throat Kenny Rodriguez, MD Crystal Wilken, ARNP 319-888-8044 Audiology Seema Arab Wilson, AuD 800-728-4327 Cardiology Kari Haislet, 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 319-340-2000 Podiatry Stephen Solomon, DPM 319-824-5081 Cancer cases are rising, and a recent National Cancer Institute study ranks Iowa second in the nation for new cases. Early detection and ongoing care are more important than ever. At the GCMH Specialty Clinic, Oncology services are available monthly through UnityPoint Health Provider Zoe Schult, ARNP. This outreach supports rural cancer patients, providing crucial care close to home. Schult works closely with physicians at the UnityPoint Health Allen Hospital Community Cancer Center. She provides initial consultations upon diagnosis and regular follow-up care for hematology and oncology patients at GCMH. Those in remission or under active surveillance benefit from routine checkups every three to six months without traveling long distances. Consultations are available one Tuesday each month. Services provided at GCMH At GCMH, oncology patients have access to a wide range of services, including imaging tests like CT scans, ultrasounds and monthly PET scans. EKGs and echocardiograms, which assess heart function, and infusions and injections for medications like Zometa, Prolia, Aranesp and Retacrit and IV fluids are also available right here. GCMH’s laboratory services track health markers through blood tests. Oncology patients are often referred to specialists within GCMH, including those in GI care, endocrinology, wound care, general surgery, ENT and dermatology. Types of cancer treated The GCMH Oncology outreach clinic most commonly sees patients being treated for breast, lung and colon/rectal cancers. Regular screenings, including colonoscopies, mammograms and lung cancer screenings for high-risk individuals, aid early detection, improving treatment outcomes. Schult stresses the importance of proactive health screenings, especially for high-risk individuals. Exercise is also key to reducing cancer risk. Most Grundy County patients are under observation rather than undergoing active chemotherapy. This specialized care, along with screening and diagnostic services, helps rural patients receive quality care close to home, reducing wait times and avoiding the need to travel to larger cities. GCMH remains committed to ensuring that patients can access the care they need, right here. 4 Cancer care at GCMH COMMUNITY CANCER CENTER Schult is affiliated with UnityPoint Health Allen Hospital Community Cancer Center and is available at the GCMH Specialty Clinic one Tuesday a month. Call 319-233-2701 to schedule. Zoe Schult, ARNP
Anticoagulation 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. Call 319-824-5081 or 888-824-5081 for scheduling information. Physical Therapy Diabetes Education Join our team! Pharmacy services at GCMH Pharmacy services at GCMH provide essential care to patients through specialized treatments such as medication management, infusions and anticoagulation counseling. GCMH Pharmacist in Charge Lisa Veit, PharmD, oversees daily pharmacy operations, ensuring compliance with regulations, managing inventory and leading the pharmacy team. Most importantly, the pharmacy team prioritizes patient safety and works to provide accurate, effective medication therapy. Lisa Veit, PharmD Infusion therapy Infusion therapy is a vital treatment option for various conditions, and patients at GCMH receive a level of care that sets us apart. All infusion medications are prepared, or compounded, in the hospital’s IV “clean room” by licensed and certified pharmacists and pharmacy technicians. The room and compounding are highly regulated by federal and state guidelines. The convenience of being able to receive outpatient infusions at GCMH is a game changer for many local patients who previously had to travel hours away and often stay overnight to receive treatments. Safety is also a top priority—while infusion medications are proven to be safe and effective, allergic reactions are always a possibility. At GCMH, our providers are available 24/7 to respond to any adverse effects. Additionally, our dedicated infusion nurse monitors patients closely, ensuring optimal treatment and patient well-being. Visit gcmh.link/infusions for a list of infusion therapies administered at GCMH. Anticoagulation services For patients taking warfarin, a blood thinner used to prevent and treat blood clots, pharmacist-managed anticoagulation monitoring is a critical service. This program helps ensure proper dosing and reduces the risk of complications. Patients typically need frequent monitoring at first—sometimes multiple times a week—until a stable dose is established, after which they are seen monthly. A referral is required for anticoagulation services. Other resources Pharmacists are a valuable resource for all medication-related questions, including vaccines and over-the-counter medications. By partnering with local community pharmacies, we ensure a seamless continuum of care for our patients. With a commitment to quality care and patient support, the pharmacy services at GCMH play an essential role in our community’s health and well-being. Featured SERVICE 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 healthcare 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 All about oncology services Here’s what to know about the oncology care offered at the GCMH Specialty Clinic. page 4 By Crystal Petersen, RDN, LD Director, Wellness and Nutrition Services From birth, babies are learning how to eat. Parents, grandparents and caregivers play a key role in providing the right foods and habits to support healthy growth, development and overall well-being. Here’s what to know. Infants (0–6 months): Responsive feeding. The best start comes from responsive feeding—paying attention to hunger and fullness cues and making each feeding experience positive. Keep baby comfortable, minimize distractions and respond to their needs, whether they prefer a fast, slow or start-and-stop feeding rhythm. For the first six months, breast milk or infant formula provides all necessary nutrition and hydration. Starting solids (6–12 months): Follow baby’s lead. At around six months, introduce solid foods when baby can sit up, open their mouth for a spoon and swallow. Good first foods include infant oatmeal, bananas, avocados, sweet potatoes, chicken, salmon, eggs, broccoli and smooth peanut butter. Continue breast milk or formula and introduce small amounts of water—up to ½ to 1 cup daily—using a sippy cup, open cup or straw. As solids become a regular part of meals, transition from feeding on-demand to structured meals and snacks. Toddlers (1–3 years): Establish a mealtime routine. Toddlers thrive on consistency. Offer three meals and two to three snacks daily, spaced two to three hours apart to allow for hunger. Parents and caregivers decide what food is served, while toddlers choose what and how much to eat. Repeated exposure helps them accept new foods, especially when they see trusted adults and peers eating them. For balanced meals, include foods from three or more food groups and two food groups for snacks. ● Milk: 12–24-month-olds need 2 to 3 cups of whole milk daily; after age 2, switch to 2 cups of skim or low-fat milk. ● Water and juice: Offer 1 to 4 cups of water daily, depending on milk intake. If serving juice, choose 100% fruit juice and limit it to 4 ounces per day. Nourishing kids from the start MORE FEEDING TIPS AND SUPPORT Join us as we kick off a new virtual group to help support parents with feeding their littles. On the third Monday of each month beginning in June, you can join virtually for expert guidance on feeding best practices, common challenges and Q&A sessions. Scan the QR code for more information!
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