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HEALTHWISEHEALTHWISE

Be on the alert for skin cancer

SUMMER/FALL 2013

Your risk of developing skin cancer increases with age, which is why it becomes more important to have regular skin cancer screenings and to stay informed about skin cancer symptoms as you grow older. Dermatologists Dr. Roger Kapoor and Dr. Paul Segal, who have offices at both Beloit Clinic and NorthPointe Clinic, have some helpful insight for readers.

WHAT TYPES OF SKIN CANCER ARE THERE?Skin cancer falls into two primary categories: nonmelanoma and melanoma. “Nonmelanoma skin cancers (basal and squamous cell cancers) are the more common and less deadly of the two types,” states Dr. Kapoor. “They generally form in the top layer of skin in areas routinely exposed to sunlight. They may take different forms including a scaly reddish patch, a pearly or waxy bump or an open sore.”

Melanomas are less common than nonmelanomas, but are the leading cause of skin cancer-related deaths. A melanoma can appear on normal skin or may begin as a mole or birthmark that begins to change in appearance. They also tend to form on parts of the body with high exposure to sunlight.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF SKIN CANCER?A good way to check for potentially dangerous growths that may be melanoma is to look at the ‘ABCDEs’ or, the asymmetry, borders, colors, diameter and evolution of the growth. Ask yourself the following questions as you do so:

Asymmetry. Is half of the mole or growth different from the other half?

Borders. Are the edges of the growth irregular?

Color. Do the colors of the growth vary?

Diameter. Is the growth larger than 6 millimeters in diameter?

Evolution. Is the mark constantly changing?

3PG

Coming soon! MyHealth Patient Portal

4PG

Keep your kidneys healthy

9PGPreventing and getting help

for teenage depression

Continued on page 2

Drs. Roger Kapoor and Paul Segal, board certified dermatologists on staff at Beloit Health System.

New physicians New dermatology procedure for skin resurfacing at NorthPointe

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Be on the alert for skin cancer Continued from page 1

“Symptoms of nonmelanoma skin cancer to look out for include a sore that bleeds easily and doesn’t heal, irregular vessels in or around a sore, or a sore with a depression in the middle,” Dr. Kapoor adds. If you notice a growth, mole or birthmark with these symptoms it’s a good idea to have it looked at by a doctor.

WHO IS AT RISK FOR SKIN CANCER?Although skin cancer can occur in young people, the risk of developing it increases as you age. Other factors that may increase your risk include:

• Having fair skin, eyes and hair pigmentation.

• Being exposed to large amounts of sunlight.

• Experiencing one or more blistering sunburns as a child.

• Using tanning devices.• Having a relative who has developed

skin cancer.

Becoming familiar with the risks and symptoms of skin cancer can help with early detection and keep you healthy. Call our dermatologists if you have questions or concerns about potentially cancerous growths or about your risk for skin cancer.

The latest technology in skin resurfacing is now available at NorthPointe Health and Wellness in Roscoe. Dermatologists Dr. Roger Kapoor and Dr. Paul Segal are pleased to announce a new cosmetic service available to residents looking to improve the surface of their skin by the reduction of wrinkles, age spots, scars and more.

“Fraxel® is a safe, non-invasive laser skin treatment that can resurface damaged skin and uncover a more youthful appearance,” states Dr. Kapoor. “This is a proven treatment with significant results in as little as one treatment, depending on the results desired.”

Fraxel resurfacing treatments effectively target both the surface and deeper layers

of the skin for a smoother, fresher, younger-looking appearance. Patients can expect improvements in tone and texture; reductions in appearance of wrinkles around the eyes, brown spots and scars; and effective treatment of pre-cancerous lesions. The main treatment areas include face, neck, chest, arms, legs and back.

The first non-ablative Fraxel device was approved by the FDA in 2003, with the new Fraxel approved in 2008. The laser treats only a fraction of the tissue at a time, which promotes rapid healing. Office treatments can be less than an hour with some post-treatment redness that diminishes in a few days.

For more information on this or other cosmetic procedures such as chemical peels, Botox or Restylane, please call:

Beloit Clinic Dermatology: (608) 364-1219

NorthPointe Dermatology: (815) 525-4070

The new Fraxel Laser Surgery procedure at NorthPointe Dermatology reduces wrinkles and age spots. Special pricing is now available for all patients until August 5.

To introduce this new dermatology service at NorthPointe, all patients receive a special

introductory pricing of 25 percent off for this service if performed before August 5.

NorthPointe Wellness members will receive a 15 percent discount if booked after that

time. To find out more, call (815) 525-4070.

Beloit Clinic Dermatology: (608) 364-1219

NorthPointe Dermatology: (815) 525-4070

2 Months After 4 Treatments

Before Fraxel repair

Frozen fruit cups

SUMMER/FALL 2013 3

Coming soon! MyHealth Patient Portal EASY TO USE. SECURE. GET CONNECTED

Our new Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system is now live. All of our patients have their health records available to their doctors at any medical visit — hospital, clinic or ER. Thank you for your patience during this transition as some registration and physician visits may have taken a little more time.

Coming later this fall! Our next step is to introduce you to MyHealth. MyHealth is a new online health management tool that will give patients a new safe and private way to access their records 24/7. You will be able to message your provider, refill medications, review your lab results from recent visits, review your immunization and health history, request an appointment and so much more.

Beloit Health System announces McKevett as new President

Gregory Britton, Beloit Health System President and CEO, recently announced the leadership promotion of Timothy McKevett from Senior Vice President to President. McKevett will take over the operational responsibilities for Britton, who will retain the title of Chief Executive Officer for the Health System. As CEO, he will continue his focus on the Board of Trustees.

“Tim’s promotion to President is a reflection of his progressive and effective leadership,” says Britton. “He has been involved in almost all areas of operation over his career and accomplished excellent outcomes.” In 28 years at the Health System, McKevett has been instrumental in developing the Health System into a financially strong, innovative, independent healthcare provider.

Greg Britton (right) congratulates Tim McKevett, new President of Beloit Health System, after his announcement at the corporate dinner.Tone your bones

Want to improve your bone health? Start exercising. Pre-menopausal women who exercise for more than two hours per week maintain healthier bones, a new study says. After tracking 120 women over an eight-week period, researchers found that the women who exercised more than two hours per week had higher levels of IGF-1, a hormone that promotes bone growth. They also had lower sclerostin, a hormone that migrates to bone surfaces and inhibits bone formation.

New to exercise? Talk with your doctor before starting a new routine. If you’ve been diagnosed with osteoporosis or are at risk for the condition, talk with your doctor about possible treatment options.

Enjoy a refreshing treat that’s delicious and nutritious!Number of servings: 18

INGREDIENTS 3 bananas24 ounces nonfat

strawberry yogurt

10 ounces strawberries, frozen (thawed and undrained)

8 ounces crushed pineapple (undrained, canned)

DIRECTIONS1. Line 18 muffin-tin cups with paper

baking cups. 2. Dice or mash bananas and place

in a large mixing bowl.3. Stir in remaining ingredients.

4. Spoon into muffin-tin cups and freeze at least 3 hours or until firm. Remove frozen cups and store in a plastic bag in freezer.

5. Before serving, remove paper cups and let stand 10 minutes.

Per serving: 50 calories, 0 g fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 25 mg sodium, 12 g carbohydrates, 1 g fiber, 8 g sugar, 2 g protein, 0 percent vitamin A, 15 percent vitamin C, 6 percent calcium, 2 percent iron. Percent daily values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Recipe courtesy of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, recipefinder.nal.usda.gov.

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REGULAR CHECKUPS AND SCREENINGS HELP DETECT KIDNEY DISEASE

Keep your kidneys healthy

A SIMPLE TESTKidney disease can be treated and managed when it is detected early. That’s why it’s important to be screened for kidney disease. All it takes is a simple blood and urine test to check for kidney disease. People at risk for kidney disease should talk to their doctor about getting tested every year.

Your kidneys have an important job to do. They filter your blood and help waste and extra water leave your body. When kidneys aren’t working well, waste can build up in the blood and hurt your body’s ability to function. Because there are no symptoms of early kidney disease, you may not even know you have it. And if kidney disease progresses or gets worse without treatment, it can lead to kidney failure. Someone with kidney failure usually needs to have dialysis (when a machine is used to clean and filter blood several times a week) or a kidney transplant.

ARE YOU AT RISK?Having high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, or a family history of kidney failure can raise your risk for getting kidney disease.

Do you have high blood pressure? Controlling high blood pressure and reducing the salt in your diet can help keep your kidneys healthy.

Do you have diabetes? Managing your diabetes and keeping blood sugar levels under control can help protect your kidneys.

Do you have heart disease? Keeping your heart healthy can also help your kidneys stay healthy.

Dialysis awarded highest 5-Diamond safety status

Beloit Health System’s Dialysis Center was recently awarded the highest 5-Diamond Patient Safety Program status by the Renal Network of the Upper Midwest. The status helps promote patient safety values.

“We are very proud of this achievement,” states Carol Vickerman, RN, Director of the Dialysis Center at Beloit Health System. “The criteria and modules are very

challenging and our staff worked hard to attain this level of care. We are dedicated to the highest patient safety for our patients.”

The current Dialysis Center opened in 2001 with space for 18 patients to undergo dialysis at one time. The design provides lots of natural light, privacy and individual

TV screens for patients, who typically receive dialysis three times a week for four hours.

For more information about Beloit Health System’s Dialysis Center, please call (608) 364-5580.

New physicians Here for you

Joanna Niemiec, M.D. David Wright, M.D.Mashood Ahmad, M.D.

Beloit Health System has three board certified nephrologists who care for patients with kidney disease. If you would like more information, please call (815) 227-8300.

Carol Vickerman, Director; Herman Polglaze; and Bonnie Rogers; all RNs in the Dialysis Center, are part of the dedicated Dialysis team who helped achieve the 5-Diamond safety status.

What is a kidney stone?

10 ways to protect your kidneys

SUMMER/FALL 2013 5

Cook with more herbs and spices, less salt

Summer is a great time to experiment with fresh herbs. So put down the salt shaker and try some new flavorings. You can cook delicious and nutritious meals with less salt! The trick is using a variety of herbs and seasonings to kick up the flavor. Try these tips:

• Add fresh or dried herbs. For starters, try basil, oregano, thyme, chives, parsley, sage, mint or ginger. Rosemary pairs nicely with chicken or potatoes and tarragon mixes well with scrambled eggs.

• Sprinkle in spices. Use paprika, black pepper, turmeric, cumin or cinnamon for flavor in pasta salads, sauces and soups.

• Harness the power of chili powder. Hot peppers and hot sauces can also spice things up.

• Experiment with seasoning blends. Try Italian seasoning with salmon or lemon pepper with chicken and vegetables. Be sure to check the labels of seasoning blends for salt.

• Use garlic and onion in vegetables, meats, salads and stews. Enjoy the flavors of fresh pressed garlic or chopped onion — or substitute garlic powder and onion powder.

If you have high blood pressure, reducing the sodium in your diet may help reduce your health risks. Learn more about following a DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) and other steps for healthy eating. Or call (608) 364-5445 to work with a Beloit Health System dietitian.

#5

Kidney stones are not the same as kidney disease. A kidney stone is a solid material that develops from the substances the kidneys filter and clean from the body. A kidney stone may stay in the kidney or travel down the urinary tract and pass with urine. Drinking plenty of water can help flush away the substances that form kidney stones.

Kidney stones are often small enough to pass out of the body on their own. However, sometimes a large kidney stone may block the flow of urine and require medical attention. Call your doctor if you have extreme pain in your back or side, blood in your urine, cloudy urine, fever/chills or vomiting.

The National Kidney Disease Education Program suggests these tips for protecting your kidneys:

2Keep your blood glucose levels in the target range if you have diabetes.

Cut back on salt in your diet.

10See your doctor for regular

checkups, and ask about getting your blood and urine tested for

kidney disease.

1} Control high blood pressure.

Keep your cholesterol levels in the target range.3 4

Choose fruits,

vegetables, whole

grains and low-fat

dairy foods.

6 Limit beverages containing alcohol.If you smoke,

make a plan to quit.

7 8 Be physically active and maintain your ideal weight.

9Take your medicines as prescribed.

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Haroon Chughtai, M.D.Interventional CardiologyBeloit Hospital(608) 364-5205

Dr. Chughtai received his medical degree in Pakistan and completed an internal medicine residency at Mount Sinai School of Medicine where he also completed his fellowships in cardiovascular MRI and general cardiology. Dr. Chughtai most recently completed a fellowship in internal cardiology at St. John Hospital and Medical Center in Detroit. He will be starting his practice here in July.

Lars Bjoernsen, M.D.Emergency MedicineBeloit Hospital

Dr. Bjoernsen received his medical degree from the University of Oslo in Norway and completed his emergency medicine residency at the University of Wisconsin. During the past two years Dr. Bjoernsen lived in Norway, and now has returned to the U.S. to work in our emergency department.

New physicians

Peter Marks, M.D.Cardiothoracic SurgeonBeloit Hospital(608) 364-5154

Dr. Marks received his medical degree from Louisiana State University and completed his residency at Charity Hospital in New Orleans. He received a fellowship at University of Illinois Chicago Medical

Center. Dr. Marks has had a long and distinguished career in Rockford, and now practices full-time at Beloit Health System. He has been a key member of our Heart and Vascular Center since 2007, showing outstanding clinical results. He is assistant professor of cardiothoracic surgery at the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Rockford.

Maria Vela, M.D.Internal Medicine Beloit Clinic(608) 364-2240

Dr. Vela received her medical degree in the Philippines and completed her internal medicine residency at Maimonides Medical Center in New York. She also completed a geriatric fellowship at Flushing Hospital

Medical Center in New York. Dr. Vela is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Vela cares for patients in three languages: English, Spanish and Filipino.

New physicians

Beloit Health System is pleased to introduce you to the following new physicians who have recently started their practices in Beloit. We also have a growing list of excellent advanced practice providers (nurse practitioners and physician assistants) who are skilled in helping you reach your healthcare goals.

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From here to there Thank you to our employees and community friends who have complimented us on our “From here to there” report to the community. We enjoy featuring our real patients who have so many positive outcomes at Beloit Health System. We encourage you to join our online community on Facebook at www.TheyKnowMeBest.com to tell us your story.

If you would like to see our report to the community online, please visit our website at BeloitHealthSystem.org or call us at (608) 364-5206 and we will gladly send you a copy.

SUMMER/FALL 2013 7

When is it time to seek assisted living?

It’s the place mom has called home for the past 50 years, so it’s understandable that now that she’s older, she doesn’t want to leave. But given the difficulty she’s had getting around the house lately, you’re thinking it might be time to look into assisted living rather than have her continue to live alone.

It’s a dilemma many people grapple with every day, for either themselves or aging relatives, and leaves them asking two important questions: Can I or my loved one continue living at home? Or is it time to seek assisted living?

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS“Some people may be able to stay home and continue to enjoy independent living with the assistance of loved ones, or by taking advantage of various services,” says Diedre Bennett, Director of NorthPointe and Riverside Terrace assisted living centers. Information on these services — and any associated costs or Medicare coverage — can often be found at local or state offices on aging, social services or senior centers, or by visiting www.eldercare.gov (800-677-1116) or www.nia.nih.gov/ health (800-222-2225). The Rock County Council on Aging in Janesville (www.co.rock.wi.us/aging) has a valuable list of resources. Some services you may need:

Meals. Programs such as Meals on Wheels are staffed with volunteer drivers who deliver to seniors’ homes. Meal drivers may also act as a safety check, noting any deterioration in their clients’ conditions.

Personal or health care. Trouble with showering or getting dressed? A personal care aide can be hired for short periods of time to help you accomplish these daily tasks. If medical assistance is needed, call Beloit Health System’s At-Home Healthcare at (608) 363-5885.

Errands. Check with a grocery store to see if they’ll take an order over the phone and deliver. Some local laundromats may offer

delivery services, or a home cleaning service may also do laundry.

Paying the bills. Get a referral from your local Office on Aging for financial counselors, geriatric care managers or other professionals who can help with these tasks. Some bills can be paid online, or check with banks to see if bill payments can be automatically deducted from savings or checking accounts.

Taking medication. Specially labeled pill boxes can help keep track of a week’s worth of medication. Home health aides can also assist with medication distribution.

Everyday tasks. Having trouble reaching for items high on shelves or opening that jar of mayonnaise? The Department of Education’s website, www.abledata.com, offers information on thousands of products that can help with everyday activities.

Emergency alert system. Whether you or your loved one is afraid of falling or needing help, Beloit Health System offers the AlertLine service, which provides help at the touch of a button. Call (608) 364-5480 for more information.

Home modifications. Depending on need, items such as wheelchair ramps, nonskid flooring and shower grab bars may help make the home safer to live in. Check with your local Office on Aging or housing agency to see if you or your loved one can get help in paying for these changes.

IS IT TIME TO LEAVE HOME?Sometimes it’s not possible to continue living at home. Warning signs that may indicate a lack of independence include:

• Deterioration in personal appearance (soiled clothing, weight loss) or appear-ance of the home

• Problems with managing chronic conditions• Memory loss• Frequent accidents• Depression or other mental health changes

In these instances, an assisted living facility, nursing home, skilled nursing facility or other care may be needed. For more information or a tour of NorthPointe or Riverside Terrace Assisted Living Centers, please call (608) 365-7222.

Cindy Hessian, Riverside Terrace Assistant, with residents Lloyd and Mary Eneix. Riverside and NorthPointe Terrace are two choices when you are considering assisted living.

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Heart team comes together to save Beloit man

Ron O’Leary has many reasons to be thankful. Just three months after his near-death experience, he has celebrated his 30th wedding anniversary, his 58th birthday, and learned that he has two new grandchildren on the way!

“I couldn’t be more appreciative for all the people who helped me through my crisis and heart surgery,” says Ron, a resident of Beloit. “I tell people all the time that I am a very lucky man!”

After shoveling snow in February and enjoying a delicious plate of spaghetti, Ron made a strange sound that caught his wife’s attention. “I thought he was having a seizure,” Julie O’Leary says. Ron was not responsive and Julie immediately started administering CPR chest compressions while asking others in the house to call 911.

After police and paramedics came to the rescue, they worked hard to keep a heartbeat as he was transported to the Emergency Room at Beloit Hospital. Within 12 hours, Ron was ventilated, and responding with a weak hand squeeze to familiar faces. The nurses confirmed that was a very good sign.

A COOL ROAD TO RECOVERYRon was put on a temperature management system called Arctic Sun. The induced hypothermia device has a sophisticated computer system that controls the body’s temperature. This slows the body processes and gives a stroke or heart attack patient a chance to recuperate. Studies show inducing hypothermia can reduce mortality of a heart attack by 35 percent. The patient’s body temperature is then slowly brought back to normal through this same gel-padded device.

During this time, Ron was under the care of Dr. Leo Egbujiobi, Cardiologist, and Dr. Peter Marks, Cardiovascular Surgeon. Dr. Marks and Dr. Egbujiobi have been performing heart surgeries at Beloit Hospital since 2007 through Dr. Marks’ affiliation with

Rockford Health System. Since January 2013, Dr. Marks has been full-time at Beloit Health System seeing patients in Beloit’s Heart and Vascular Center on the hospital’s fourth floor.

The heart team determined that Ron had three blocked arteries that would require surgery. Two arteries were blocked at 50 percent and one at 90 percent. The major blockage was in a main coronary artery to the heart that typically causes a massive heart attack — nicknamed the “widow maker.” Ron was scheduled for triple bypass surgery four days after entering the hospital.

The surgery went well and Ron spent the next six days in the hospital recovering. “I can’t tell you how impressed I was with everyone at the hospital,” he exclaims. “From the doctors to the nurses to the food servers, everyone was fantastic and worked so well together. Now I like to visit my nurses and show them how well I am doing thanks to their help.”

FULL SPECTRUM HEART CAREBeloit Health System has a comprehensive cardiac care program and cares for the patient from diagnosis to treatment or surgery to follow-up care and cardiac rehabilitation. Ron successfully completed them all and in June returned to the job he enjoys as a bus driver. “I was ready to get back to work and start feeling productive again!”

“I was so surprised that I had a heart attack,” explains Ron. “I didn’t know I had any heart concerns and I have always passed my physicals for the Department of Transportation (DOT).” Ron has been a city of Beloit bus driver for almost a year, and was a school bus driver for 16 years before that.

“I never hesitate to tell people about my experience at Beloit Health System,” he adds. “They saved my life and I would recommend them to anyone.”

Heart and Vascular Center: Expertise for hearts

Beloit Health System is pleased to bring Dr. Peter Marks, Cardiothoracic Surgeon, and Dr. Haroon Chughtai, Interventional Cardiologist, to the Heart and Vascular Center, on the fourth floor of the hospital. The Center has high patient satisfaction, lower-than-average complication rates, expertise and convenience all in one place.

Pictured at left: Ron O'Leary thanks Dr. Peter Marks, Cardiovas-cular Surgeon, and Dr. Leo Egbujiobi, Cardiologist, for the care he received after his heart attack.

SUMMER/FALL 2013 9

Teenage depression is a serious health concern. Sometimes preventing depression is not possible; however there are things you can do to give your teen the coping skills and support that can reduce their risk of serious depression. Laura Neece, Licensed Professional Counselor with Beloit Health System’s Counseling Care Center, offers some important advice.

SHOW YOUR SUPPORTBe sure your child knows that you are there for them if needed. Good ways to show your support include:

• Making time every day to talk with your teen.

• Taking an interest in things that interest them.

• Trying to encourage your child to express feelings without offering judgments or getting upset. Talk with them calmly about how they are feeling.

• Offering positive feedback on accom-plishments, good deeds or other strengths whatever form they take.

• Preparing and eating family meals together.

PROMOTE FRIENDSHIPS AND SOCIAL INTERACTIONSStrong social relationships are also important for your teen’s mental health. Encourage your teen to spend time with his or her friends. Team sports or other group activities like academic clubs are also a great way for your child to increase self-esteem and widen his or her social support network.

LOOK AT MEDIA TIME“Most teens spend a lot of time with various media,” states Neece. “Examine some of your child’s most watched shows and movies. If they involve unrealistic situations or people, you may want to have a conversation about how media differs from reality.” Repeated exposure to violent or overly negative content may aggravate feelings of depression. Talk with your kids

about what they are watching, how they feel about it, what they have learned from it, or even why they enjoy the show.

ENCOURAGE EXERCISE AND RESTWhether it’s through aerobic exercise like running or strength-training exercises like lifting weights, daily physical activity may help reduce depression and anxiety in teens. The Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least one hour of physical activity per day for teens.

Getting sufficient sleep is also essential for helping teens feel their best both physically and emotionally. Lack of sleep may increase the risk of depression. Many teens may reject the idea of having a set bedtime, but encouraging a relaxing activity like reading at night can help your teen fall asleep faster.

SEEK HELP WHEN NECESSARY“Most teens have up and down moods,” explains Neece. “It’s often difficult to distinguish depression from ordinary moodiness and teenage angst.” Some signs of depression in teens include:

• Withdrawal from friends, family, hobbies, sports and other activities

• Depressed mood• Reduction in school performance

• Decreased energy and/or motivation• Anger, irritability or rage• Being very sensitive (possibly

overreacting) to criticism• Poor self-esteem or guilt• Decreased concentration, difficulty

making decisions• Restlessness• Changes in sleep or eating habits• Suicidal thoughts

If you are concerned that your child may be depressed, especially if they are having suicidal thoughts, seek medical assistance. Medical professionals may suggest a variety of treatment options including talk therapy or possibly antidepressant medications. For more information, please call the Counseling Care Center at (608) 364-5686. They have licensed therapists who specialize in working with teens and young adults.

Preventing and getting help for teenage depression

Laura Neece, Licensed Professional Counselor with Beloit Health System’s Counseling Care Center

Getting sufficient sleep is essential for helping teens feel their best both physically and emotionally.

FOUNDATIONVIEWFOUNDATIONVIEW

Ann Sitrick, Executive Director • (608) 363-5724

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Beloit focuses on giving hope to cancer patientsNEW CANCER CENTER NOW BEING BUILT

Construction is underway for Beloit Health System’s new, free-standing cancer center located on Milwaukee Road in Beloit. The center will bring together all cancer services under one roof, and extends Beloit’s existing relationship with the University of Wisconsin and the UW Carbone Cancer Center in Madison.

“Beloit Health System began an affiliation with what is now UW Health in 1985,” states Greg Britton, CEO of Beloit Health System. “In fact, we were one of their first affiliates.”

“We are pleased that many patients will be able to stay closer to home while receiving the highest possible level of cancer care in Beloit,” says Dr. Jeffrey Grossman, president and CEO of the UW Medical Foundation. Currently, U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of Wisconsin’s cancer facilities among the nation’s top 50 and UW Hospital and Clinics the No. 1 hospital in Wisconsin.

“The new Center will expand and improve our cancer treatment options,” states Tim McKevett, Beloit Health System President. “It will be equipped with state-of-the-art cancer-fighting technology such as image-guided radiation. About 50 percent of the cancer patients we serve in this area need both radiation and chemotherapy. Soon they will have one location for these treatments that is focused on their comfort.” Beloit Health System’s physicians will work more closely with UW cancer specialists and will have access to the latest treatment protocols and education, including clinical trials and tertiary care. Beloit will have the expertise to treat 95 percent of all cancers, with our UW collaboration caring for the more esoteric 5 percent.

Services will include medical oncology, chemotherapy and infusion, and advanced radiation therapy. It will also feature patient support benefits, along with serene indoor and outdoor surroundings. An additional benefit of the new free-standing clinic will be greater patient convenience.

The architecture firm for the center is Plunkett Raysich Architects of Milwaukee, and Klobucar Construction of Beloit is the contractor.

Support the cancer center

“What Does Hope Look Like” is Beloit Health System Foundation’s campaign to help support the new cancer center. If you are interested in learning more about donating or naming opportunities, please contact Ann Sitrick, Foundation Executive Director, at (608) 363-5724.

Your gift can be used where it’s needed most or to a specific area of cancer, such as family and patient education, equipment and technology, endowment for future needs, or for the healing environment such as patios or walking paths.

Your gift brings hope to our cancer patients and ensures that advanced medical cancer treatment will be available to you, your family and your neighbors.

Dr. Peter Mahler, Radiation Oncologist also on staff with UW Cancer Center, and Dr. Walter Vogel, Medical Oncologist, will continue their practices at the new cancer center.

Renderings of the new cancer center located on Milwaukee Road in Beloit. With its convenient location near major highways, the cancer center is designed to serve patients in the broad region

of Rock and Walworth counties, as well as those in northern Illinois. Antici-pated costs for the 22,000-square-foot building are $11.6 million, with a scheduled opening in December 2013.

FOUNDATIONVIEW

Ann Sitrick, Executive Director • (608) 363-5724

SUMMER/FALL 2013 11

All of our nurses are winners!Our generous donors have developed annual scholarships to recognize Beloit Health System’s outstanding nursing staff. Although we have 370 nurses (and they are all winners in our mind), we do take time during National Nurses Week to honor some of our nurses nominated by their peers.

Many of Beloit Health System’s nurses hold advanced certification in their respective specialties — a higher percentage than the national average. We also have a very experienced nursing staff with a low turnover rate thanks to our strong leadership, good work environment and high employee satisfaction.

Terri Harmon, Director, and Doris Mulder, Vice President, award Judi Cash (center). Nominee not present for photo: Jody Gaulin (Critical Care).

Left to right: Ann Sitrick, Foundation Execu-tive Director, awards Tammy Leisher (Beloit Clinic — Oncology) and Robin Stauffacher (Beloit Clinic — Oncology). Nominees not present for photo: Heidi Hassinger (Special Care), Danielle Chermack (Special Care)

Left to right: Doris Mulder, Vice President; Mary Cooper (Critical Care and Nursing Office); and Doreen Mielke, Director of Intermediate and Critical Care

Nominees: Maria Zittlow (Intermediate), Dail Shepherd (Intermediate and Nursing Office), Donelle Studer (Intermediate), Nicole Kath (Critical Care), Holly Clifton (Multi-Care Center), Sharon Cox (Multi-Care Center), Molly Carl (Gastroenterology) and Terra Ferguson (Family Care Center).

WINNER: Judi Cash, Gastroenterology

The Preceptor of the Year Award was established by an anonymous donor to recognize those members of our nursing staff who assist in orienting new staff members to each department. They assist staff in learning System policies, as well as procedures and techniques related to delivering patient care at the bedside.

PRECEPTOR OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNER

ROSE THOMAS-COATS AWARD FOR END OF LIFE CARE

GLADYS M. ELDRED MEMORIAL AWARD FOR NURSING EXCELLENCE

The Gladys M. Eldred Memorial Award was established by John Eldred and Dorothy Bigelow, children of Gladys Eldred, to express the family’s appreciation for the outstanding care given to Mrs. Eldred while she was a patient in our hospital. The purpose of the award is to create public awareness of high-level nursing skills, and to encourage the continual improvement of nursing skills through participation in continuing education activities.

The Rose Thomas-Coats Memorial Award was established by June and Charlie Hart in recognition of the care given to June’s mother at the end of her life by nurse Julie Osborne Punzel. The award supports advanced education for nurses who provide end of life care for patients and support for their families.

WINNERS: Tammy Leisher and Robin Stauffacher, Beloit Clinic — Oncology

WINNER: Mary Cooper, Critical Care and Nursing Office

CONGRATULATIONS!

We are proud of our nurses’ accomplishments and their commitment to offer the highest quality medical care to our patients.

To our nurses (and the families that support them) we say thank you for making a difference in our health system and in our community.

All of the following nominees are submitted by their nursing peers.

is published bi-annually by Beloit Health System1969 West Hart RoadBeloit, Wisconsin 53511(608) 364-5162www.BeloitHealthSystem.org©2013 Beloit Health SystemAll rights reserved.

Gregory K. BrittonChief Executive Officer

Sarah StarmerPublications Coordinator

Websites not belonging to this organization are provided for information only. No endorsement is implied. Images may be from one or more of these sources: ©Thinkstock, ©iStock, ©Fotolia.

We do our best to ensure correct address information. Please accept our apologies for any name or address inaccuracies.

HEALTHWISE

PLACES TO BE Visit our calendar Web pages at www.BeloitHealthSystem.org.

Non-Profit Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDRockford, IL

Permit No. 8581969 West Hart Road, Beloit, Wisconsin 53511

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COUNSELING CARE CENTER

Call (608) 364-5686 for more information about the following services.

Alcohol or Drug Abuse Assessment

Anger Management or Anxiety Group for Adults and Children

Cancer Patient/Family Therapy Individual or family therapy designed for cancer patients and their families.

Children of Divorce

Depression Group for Women

Developmental Disability Group Skill-building treatment group for adults with developmental disabilities.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Group Develop skills to help you think, control negative emotions and relate better to others.

Rebuilding After Divorce Group Helps women move forward after their marriage ends.

Women Rebuilding Their LivesMarriage/Family/Parenting and more.

FAMILY CARE CENTER

For more information or to register for any of the classes, call (608) 364-5237.

Big Brother/Big Sister ClassesSibling prep class, one Saturday each month. 10 a.m.-noon, BMH Auditorium. $5/child ($10 family). Gift bags and refreshments are provided.

Birth Preparation ClassesPrepare for your delivery and future parenthood with this four-session class. Cost is $25 to those delivering at Beloit Hospital and $50 if delivering elsewhere.

Birth Refresher ClassesClass consists of two, three-hour sessions, refreshing you on breathing and all aspects of birth. Cost is $10 if delivering at Beloit Hospital, and $20 if delivering elsewhere.

Breastfeeding ClassesPave the way for a successful breastfeeding experience before you have your baby or after. The free class is held six times a year from 6-8:30 p.m. in the Family Care Center.

Family Care Center ToursHaving a baby? Check out our special delivery services.

HEALTH AND FITNESS

AlertLine (previously Lifeline)Emergency Personal Response System with help at the touch of a button. Call (608) 364-5480.

Diabetic Counseling and Special Free Class for Those with Pre-DiabetesFor information, call (608) 364-5138.

Foot Care Clinics“Treat Your Feet” clinics offered at many outreach centers. Call (888) 932-2245.

Free Hearing Screenings for People 35 and Older at NorthPointeCall our certified audiologists at (815) 525-4327.

Living Successfully with DiabetesA comprehensive Diabetes Education program offered several times a year. Call (608) 364-5137.

Mammogram Mondays — Now at NorthPointeWalk-in screening mammogram clinic held every second and fourth Monday, 5-8 p.m. Most insurance accepted. Call (815) 525-4210 for Northpointe mammograms. Hospital mammograms available by appointment, including Thursday evenings, by calling (608) 364-5249.

Massage Therapy Let our certified Massage Therapist help you feel better. Massage services also available at NorthPointe Spa.

NorthPointe Wellness Medically integrated fitness facility in Roscoe with two swimming pools, group exercise classes, degreed and certified personal trainers to help you reach your goals. Please call (815) 535-4900 for membership information or a tour.

Medicare Questions? If you have Medicare-related questions about your care at Beloit Health System, call Tami Schindler, Medicare Advisor, at (608) 364-5583.

SUPPORT GROUPS

All support groups are free.

Alzheimer’s Support Group for CaregiversMeets second and fourth Tuesday, 1-2:30 p.m. at BMH. Call (608) 314-8500.

Bosom BuddiesBreast cancer support group that meets the third Monday of the month at 5:30 p.m. Call (608) 364-5253.

Cancer Support GroupFor more information, call (608) 364-5130.

Courageous Survivors Support GroupFor those recovering from stroke, amputations and other illnesses or conditions. Call (608) 364-5203.

Diabetes Support GroupCall Barb/Nancy at (608) 364-5138.

Lymphedema Support GroupFor more information, call (608) 364-5173.

Ostomy Support GroupMeets on a monthly basis. Call for schedule at (608) 363-5705.

YOUNG ADULT/CHILDREN

Counseling for Individuals and GroupsSocial skills, coping with divorce, anxiety and more. Call (608) 364-5686.

Operation TimothyHospital orientation and tour for first graders. Thursdays, October through May. To register, call (608) 364-5237.

Safe SitterMeets for two separate sessions to educate adolescents to safely care for younger children. Fee of $35 for one-day class from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Call (608) 290-4832 for class dates at BMH and NorthPointe. Watch for details!