mh healthsource - for yumpu

Volume 1, 2017
Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers
the
year
of
Accolades

Bravo!the Year of Accolades
Awards and recognition aren’t what inspire physicians and staff
at Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers to deliver the highest
quality care with personalized service. The inspiration comes
from the patients who choose Morris Hospital and a community
that counts on its local hospital for excellent care. Yet over the
past year, awards and recognition have literally been pouring in at Morris
Hospital. The recognition is certainly noteworthy.
“In some ways, it’s like we won the Emmy, the Grammy and the
Oscar this past year,” says Mark Steadham, President & CEO of Morris
Hospital & Healthcare Centers. “We never applied for any of these
awards. They are a result of our excellent care and service, along with our
solid operations.”
The recognition Steadham
is referring to includes receiving
Truven Health Analytics’ 100 Top
Hospitals award, being named
one of the 100 Great Community
Hospitals by Becker’s Hospital
Review, and earning a tenth
consecutive A on the Leapfrog
Hospital Safety Grade, making Morris
Hospital just one of 72 hospitals in the
nation with a perfect Straight A report
card for patient safety.
According to Steadham, it’s no
coincidence that Morris Hospital has received such esteemed national
recognition.
“Every day, our employees and the physicians who practice at
Morris Hospital are working behind-the-scenes to assure our patients
are receiving quality care in a safe environment. This includes using
computerized physician order entry to prevent medication errors,
adhering to evidence based medicine to prevent complications,
having checks in place to prevent errors, holding daily safety huddles
to avert any potential safety issues, and ensuring we have strong lines
of communication between staff, patients and families. This is how we
protect patients from errors, injuries, accidents and infections.”
The national recognition Morris Hospital has received over the past
several months isn’t only about quality of care. Truven Health’s 100 Top
Hospitals award, for example, also takes patients’ perception of their
hospital experience into consideration. Like quality initiatives, Morris
Hospital keeps a close eye on patient feedback.
“It’s not surprising that compared to state and national averages,
more patients give Morris Hospital a 9 or 10 rating for their overall
quality of care,” says Steadham. “Every day, I hear stories about our
employees who go above and beyond for our patients. Whether it’s
the employee who goes out and buys an anniversary cake for a patient
in a hospice bed, or an employee who makes travel arrangements so
a patient from out-of-state can get home, stories like these are what
Morris Hospital is all about.”
Along with quality and service, Steadham says having financial
stability is critical in order for Morris
Hospital to afford the technology
that’s needed to deliver quality care.
“Our information technology
infrastructure alone has been a
significant financial investment
over the past five years, not to
mention the continual replacement
of medical equipment so we can
keep up with ever advancing
medical technology,” says Steadham,
referring to the new, $2.6 million
linear accelerator that will be
installed at Morris Hospital’s Radiation Therapy Center in early 2017.
When looking ahead to the future, Steadham says he believes Morris
Hospital is well poised for continued success.
“We are a small community hospital, and that puts us closer to
the patient,” he says. “Additionally, we are guided by a Board of local
community members who know and understand the needs of our
community and help set our strategy. And, we have physicians and staff
who know and genuinely care about our patients, which puts us at an
advantage.”
“As long as we can continue to deliver excellence in the areas of
quality, service, and finance and keep our employees and physicians
engaged in Morris Hospital and the work we do, we will continue to have
a bright future as an independent community hospital.”
2 East/Pediatrics is one
of 12 patient care areas
at Morris Hospital that
ranked above the 90th
percentile for overall
quality of care in 2016
when compared to other
hospitals across the
nation.
healthsource
2

Morris Hospital employees in the
Grundy County Cornfest parade.
Straight A’s for Patient Safety
Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers is one of 72 hospitals in
the nation to earn ten consecutive Straight “A’s” on the Leapfrog
Hospital Safety Grade since the inception of the program in 2012.
Developed under the guidance of an expert panel, the Leapfrog Hospital
Safety Grade uses 30 measures of publicly available hospital safety data
to indicate how well hospitals protect patients from preventable errors,
injuries and infections by assigning A, B, C, D and F grades to U.S. hospitals
twice per year. The grade is calculated by top patient safety experts, peerreviewed,
fully transparent and free to the public.
One of the Nation’s 100 Top Hospitals®
Truven Health Analytics TM 100 Top Hospitals® study has become the
standard for measuring quality of hospital care in the United States. Top
hospitals are identified based on financial stability, operational efficiency,
patient safety, inpatient and outpatient quality of care, and patient
experience.
Hospitals do not apply for consideration, and winners do not pay to
market this honor. Morris Hospital was named one of Truven Health’s 2016
100 Top Hospitals, an indication that Morris Hospital:
• Has better survival rates, or fewer deaths than expected
• Has fewer patient complications
• Better adheres to recommended standards of care
• Has lower 30-day mortality and 30-day readmission rates
• Has shorter average lengths of stay
• Provides more timely emergency care
• Keeps expenses low, both in-hospital and through the aftercare process
• Has a median operating profit margin that is nearly 9 percentage points higher
• Provides a better overall hospital experience as reported by patients
Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers also received the 100 Top Hospitals®
award in 2007 and 1993.
A Great Community Hospital
Becker’s Hospital Review is a monthly publication offering up-todate
business and legal news and analysis relating to hospitals and
health systems. Each year, Becker’s publishes a list of “100 Great
Community Hospitals” from among all hospitals in the nation that
have fewer than 550 beds and minimal teaching programs.
Morris Hospital was named to Becker’s 2016 Great Community
Hospitals list.
The Becker’s editorial team selects hospitals for inclusion based
on rankings and awards from organizations including iVantage
Health Analytics, Truven Health Analytics, Healthgrades, CareChex,
the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the Leapfrog Group.
Morris Hospital is one of six on the list from Illinois.
Best Employer in Grundy County
For over a decade, employees at Morris Hospital have
grown accustom to hearing their
senior leaders talk about their
commitment to making Morris
Hospital & Healthcare Centers
an excellent place to work. The
announcement that Morris Hospital
& Healthcare Centers was named
Best Employer in Grundy County
through the Morris Herald News’
2016 Reader’s Choice awards was
reason to celebrate.
“Our employees truly are
our most valuable resource,” says Erin Murphy-Frobish, Vice
President of Human Resources at Morris Hospital. “They are the
ones who deliver the great care and service to our patients.”
Murphy-Frobish says she’s not surprised Morris Hospital was
selected Best Employer, as she, too, believes Morris Hospital is
an excellent place to work.
“We are a mission driven organization focused on improving
the health of our community,” she says. “From the first day on
the job, our employees are taught the Morris Hospital values:
compassion, accountability, excellence and respect. We get to
work in a family atmosphere and be part of an organization
that has a great reputation, not to mention the great employee
benefits.”
Along with being a great employer, Murphy-Frobish says
Morris Hospital is proud of the contributions it makes to the
economy of the local community. With over 1,200 employees,
the hospital has an annual payroll of over $68 million.
To check current job opportunities at Morris Hospital, go to
www.morrishospital.org/careers.
Top Performer for Nursing Care
Each year, Morris Hospital surveys the physicians on its
medical staff to see what they think about the services and
care provided by the hospital. When it comes to nursing care,
physicians have really good things to say. So good, in fact, that
Morris Hospital received a Top Performer Award for Nursing Care
in 2016 based on the percentage of physicians who rated Morris
Hospital’s nursing care “excellent” as compared to the other 2,200
hospitals across the country that use the same physician survey tool.
“The Top Performer award is truly a testimony to the
outstanding nursing care we have at Morris Hospital,” says Mark
Steadham, President & CEO of Morris Hospital & Healthcare
Centers. “When physicians rate our nursing
care excellent, that means they have absolute
confidence sending their patients here for care. This
is one of the highest compliments we can receive.”
In addition to Nursing Care, physicians at
Morris Hospital also gave top marks to Emergency
Services, Laboratory Services, Patient Safety,
Quality of Care and Radiology Services
Ratings from physicians have earned Morris Hospital
a Top Performer Award for Nursing Care.
www.morrishospital.org 3

Help For
Ankle
Problems
Knowing that our thin ankles bear the weight of the whole of
our bodies with every step, turn and jump we make, it’s not surprising that
they give us problems every now and then. Some ankle ailments
are chronic, while others come on suddenly and painfully.
For Dr. Kyle Pearson, an advanced foot and ankle reconstructive surgeon
with Rezin Orthopedics who is on the medical
staff at Morris Hospital, sprains and fractures are
the most common ankle conditions he sees in his
practice.
“Sports related injuries are the most common
cause,” Dr. Pearson says. “I also see ankle injuries
occur in patients who were just working around
their house or while at work, when they twist
their ankle. Most of these injuries result when the
foot rolls inward and the ankle gives out. This can
cause a fracture or damage to the ligaments on
Kyle Pearson, D.P.M.
Foot and Ankle Surgeon
the outside of the ankle.”
While an ankle fracture involves a crack or break
in the bones of the ankle joint, a sprain injures
the ligaments that hold the bones together.
Mistaking an ankle fracture for a sprain can have serious consequences if
the foot or ankle does not heal correctly.
“If the ankle joint heals off by even one millimeter, it can cause abnormal
wear and tear of the joint, which predisposes the patient to develop early
and advanced arthritis,” says Dr. Pearson.
Other Ankle Problems
Other ankle problems can be caused by autoimmune diseases such as
rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and gout. Dr. Pearson says these
conditions may cause abnormal inflammation in the joints that leads to
the destruction of cartilage.
Deformity in the foot can also lead to ankle pain and problems, which
are often times over looked. Achilles tendonitis, as well, is a common
troublemaker in the ankle, causing swelling and pain.
Dr. Pearson says one way to avoid many types of ankle problems is to
stay active. Exercise conditions and strengthens muscles that support
joints. Wearing proper, supportive shoes for activities is also vital. Try to
avoid wearing flip-flops that don’t provide proper support.
Advanced Ankle Replacement Surgery
Total ankle replacement
surgeries are now being
performed at Morris Hospital by
Dr. Kyle Pearson, a foot and ankle
reconstructive surgeon who
received advanced training at the
University of Pittsburg Medical
Center. An ankle replacement
mimics the natural motions of the
ankle and provides an alternative
to an ankle joint fusion for
individuals with advanced
arthritis.
Custer Park resident and
school bus driver Pam Hall
underwent the surgery to replace
an ankle joint that was so painful,
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she could barely stand a trip
through the grocery store.
“When I would get up,” she
says, “there would be a searing,
hot pain going through my ankle.
If you have that kind of pain and
it’s controlling your life, you have
no life.”
The condition of her ankle
was brought about by a fall down
her basement stairs almost 30
years ago.
Dr. Pearson informed Pam
that her best options for pain
relief would be an ankle fusion
or ankle replacement. To keep
her range of motion, Pam chose
ankle replacement.
Dr. Pearson performed Pam’s
surgery at Morris Hospital last
May. By the time school resumed
in August, she was back on
the job, climbing in and out of
her bus, shopping, and living a
normal life.
“It went well,” Pam says of the
surgery. “I think I’m very fortunate
to live in the day of modern
medicine and technology. Now
my ankle feels great. It was a hard
recovery, but it was worth it.”
To learn more, call Rezin
Orthopedics and Sports
Medicine, 815-942-4875.

Building a
Healthier Community
through Care Coordination
ver the past two years, Morris Hospital has been making
strides in improving care for patients with complex
chronic conditions. The key has been the addition of
two Nurse Care Coordinators, along with voluntary
participation in the National Rural Accountable Care Organization.
“For patients with multiple chronic illnesses, the plan of care can be very
complex,” explains Jen Wallenberg, R.N., Nurse Care Coordinator at Morris
Hospital. “The role of the Nurse Care Coordinator is to review the plan of
care, make sure the patient understands the plan, is getting medications
filled, going to their appointments, and connecting with outside resources
they may need. If a crisis happens, we look at what we can do to prevent it
from happening again, all with a goal of keeping the patient healthy and
safe in the home.”
What is an Accountable Care Organization?
An Accountable Care Organization (ACO) is a group of doctors, hospitals
and other healthcare providers who voluntarily assume responsibility for the
quality and cost of health care for a defined population of patients following
guidelines from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
Primary care providers who are part of an Accountable Care
Organization may choose to use a nurse care coordinator to assist in
chronic care and transitional care management of their patients following
hospitalization.
“CMS recognizes that only 10 percent of all patients account for 60
percent of healthcare costs,” explains Wallenberg. “Patients with complex
chronic conditions don’t always understand their care plan or treatment
plan, or there may be a lack of coordination between multiple providers.
Nurse Care Coordinators look at all of this and bring it together.”
The Role of the Nurse Care Coordinator
After receiving a referral from a physician following a patient’s discharge
from the hospital, the Care Coordinator stays in touch with the patient
over the next month or longer to make sure the patient understands and
follows the care plan established by the physician,
including medications, discharge instructions, office
visits and follow-up care. Through phone calls or in
person visits, the Care Coordinator also works with the
patient to identify any barriers that impede the care plan.
“We provide health coaching and support by
building ongoing relationships with patients and their
families,” says Wallenberg.
Benefits for the Patient
Over the past two years, Wallenberg has seen
significant improvements with the patients she has
coached as a Nurse Care Coordinator, including
improved quality of life, increased functional status,
shared decision-making, reduced duplication of
services, and better involvement in decisions about
care. All of this results in fewer hospitalizations,
particularly re-admissions that could have been
prevented through better health management.
“I’ve been told by patients that we are guardian
angels, a helping hand,” says Wallenberg. “We extend
the relationship they have with their physician and
inform the physician if we discover that medications
aren’t being taken as ordered, aren’t being filled, or
the patient didn’t understand the instructions they
received.”
One Patient’s Story
In the spring of 2015, Gerri Greenwall was one of the first patients
referred to the ACO Nurse Care Coordinators at Morris Hospital for help
with several chronic health conditions. Gerri had recently been discharged
from the hospital and had a mass on her thyroid, wounds resulting from
diabetes complications, and renal insufficiencies. She had also had a
stroke.
After establishing a relationship and developing a plan and goals based
on Gerri’s priorities, Wallenberg provided the education, direction and
support that was needed to help Gerri address and manage her conditions
one at a time.
Today, Gerri is living life more than she has in years. She volunteers at
church, walks to the mailbox, mows her lawn and takes vacations. In 2016,
she and her husband, Steve, celebrated Gerri’s improved health by getting
remarried, and she was able to attend one of her grandchildren’s graduations.
And with the mass removed from her thyroid, Gerri can sing again.
“Like we do with most patients, we
started out with small steps,” says
Wallenberg. “Gerri was very willing to
allow us into her life, and her husband
was very involved and supportive.
It’s really the patient who has to be
engaged and focused on developing
their own goals. We help guide them.
“This is all about creating a
healthier community,” adds
Wallenberg. “We tell our patients
that health is wealth. If you don’t
have your health, it doesn’t matter
what else you have in your life.”
Attention Medicare Beneficiaries!
Are you taking advantage of your Annual Wellness Visit?
One way seniors can achieve better health outcomes is by scheduling their Annual
Wellness Visit with their primary care physician, with the cost of the visit covered by
Medicare for beneficiaries who have had Part B for longer than 12 months.
During the visit, patients are asked to fill out a questionnaire, called a “Health Risk
Assessment.” The visit can also include:
• A review of medical and family history
• Developing or updating a list of current providers and prescriptions
• Height, weight, blood pressure, and other routine measurements
• Detection of any cognitive impairment
• Personalized health advice
• A list of risk factors and treatment options
• A screening schedule for appropriate preventive services.
Medicare patients pay nothing for the yearly “Wellness”visit if their doctor or other
qualified health care provider accepts assignment. However, the patient may have to
pay coinsurance. The Part B deductible may apply if additional tests or services that
aren’t covered under the preventive benefits are performed during the same visit.
Be sure to ask your provider about
the Medicare Annual Wellness Visit.
www.morrishospital.org 5

Battling Childhood
OBESITY
The statistics are convincing, if not frightening.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
childhood obesity has more than doubled in children and
quadrupled in adolescents in the past 30 years. By 2012, more
than one-third of children and adolescents were considered
overweight or obese, prompting the World Health Organization to
identify childhood obesity as one of the most serious public health
challenges of the 21st century.
But it’s not just the statistics that concern Dr. Aamair “TJ” Tajuddin,
a pediatrician at the Coal City Healthcare Center of Morris Hospital.
In the exam room, he often finds the problem is not as simple as just
treating the child.
“Statistics aside, I’ve personally seen so many children who are
overweight or obese,” he says. “After obtaining a lifestyle history, I
oftentimes see obesity is a family problem.
“Parents are often struggling with multiple co-morbidities
themselves and sometimes it seems like the children are doomed to
the same cycle. As an advocate for childhood health,
I want to break the cycle and empower children to
take control of their lives.”
While there are multiple factors behind the
rising childhood obesity rates, Dr. Tajuddin says
environmental influences and genetics are atop the
list. More children are eating unhealthy diets and
not getting enough exercise to burn those calories
off. As a result, those children become overweight
or obese, putting them on the path for additional
health problems, such as diabetes, high blood
pressure, high cholesterol, arthritis, poor self-esteem
and depression.
“Obesity is a serious disease, but it’s also a disease that causes
other diseases,” Dr. Tajuddin says. “The sad reality is that we see more
and more children with diabetes, high blood pressure and heart
disease earlier on in their lives.”
When counseling an overweight or obese child, Dr. Tajuddin first
takes a detailed family history to identify the factors causing the
child’s weight gain, like genetic predispositions or environmental
influences.
“Very rarely is this just the child’s problem. Often times, it’s
the brothers, sisters, and parents who all need to make changes
together,” Dr. Tajuddin says. “It’s very difficult for a child to live a
healthier lifestyle when those surrounding them aren’t.”
But he makes one thing clear to the whole family. “Losing weight
isn’t an overnight process,” Dr. Tajuddin says. “It usually takes years
until we get to a good weight that the patient and the family feel
comfortable with. Even after that, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is a
lifelong journey.”
Keep those kids moving!
1) Limit screen time to less than 2 hours per day. The more kids
watch TV or play video games, the less physically active they are.
That goes for adults too.
2) Find youth programs at the local YMCA, park district or youth
center. This can establish physical activity as a routine and can
introduce your child to a new activity.
3) Exercise for children should be fun, so pick activities
that they enjoy!
Morris Hospital pediatricians are located in Channahon, Coal City, Marseilles, Morris, Seneca
and Ottawa. To connect with a pediatrician on the Morris Hospital medical staff,
healthsource 6
visit www.morrishospital.org/doctors.

Help for Chronic Lung Disease
FREE online health risk assessments!
GETCHECKEDNOW!
A new Breathers’ Support Group for individuals
with chronic lung disease is now being
offered by Morris Hospital. The group meets at
the hospital the third Friday of the month from
10-11 a.m. and is recommended for those who
have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease,
asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, or pulmonary
fibrosis.
Lead by two respiratory therapists, meetings
include general discussions about ways
to manage lung disease, gain emotional support,
and share experiences with others. A 20
minute educational topic is presented at each
meeting.
For a schedule of Breathers’ Support Group
meetings, go to www.morrishospital.org/
events or call the Pulmonary Rehabilitation
department at 815-705-7837.
✔ Heart Disease ✔ Stroke ✔ Peripheral Artery Disease
Receive instant results indicating whether you are at low, moderate or high risk,
along with a 6-page report that explains how you can reduce your risk.
Go to www.morrishospital.org/getcheckednow
Happy 110th Birthday, Morris Hospital!
On September 7, 1906, the very first patient was admitted to the original Morris Hospital located
on the third floor of the Collins Building at the corner of Liberty and Jackson Streets in
downtown Morris. The patient had typhoid fever. The hospital consisted of eight to 10 beds
in a converted apartment, plus an operating room created from the living room of
another apartment. It was determined that, “As the need develops, and the hospital
is on a paying basis, then it is expected that a modern building will be erected.”
Additionally, a meeting of the wives of the physicians, dentists, druggists and
Trustees on September 6, 1906, marked the formation of the
Ladies Auxiliary of Morris Hospital, an organization
known today as the Morris Hospital Auxiliary.
The rest, as they say, is history.
New Physicians
g Cardiology:
G. Steinar Gudmundsson, M.D.
Muhammad Marwali, M.D.
27240 W. Saxony Dr., Channahon
151 W. High St., Morris
1404 Aquarius Circle, Suite A, Ottawa
815-705-1000
g Family Medicine:
Paulo A. Aranas, M.D.
1306 Gemini Circle, Suite 1, Ottawa
815.433.9200
g General Practice:
Mike Cichon, D.O.
(affiliate medical staff)
103 S. John St., Dwight
815.584.3051
g Pediatrics:
Darakhshan Anjum, M.D.
580 Sycamore, Marseilles
815.795.2122
Melissa Hill, M.D.
1306 Gemini Circle, Suite 1, Ottawa
815.433.9200
Faiz Rahman, M.D.
1306 Gemini Circle, Suite 1, Ottawa
815.433.9200
Aamair Tajuddin, D.O.
4 E. North Street, Coal City
815.518.5755
g Rheumatology:
Belal Said, M.D.
25259 Reed St., Channahon
815.467.0555
Looking for a physician?
Go to morrishospital.org/doctors
to search by town or specialty.
Be sure to check out our physician profile
videos when you go to our website!
www.morrishospital.org 7

What’s
new in
diabetes management?
W
hile managing Types 1 and 2
diabetes can be difficult, there
are new tools and medications
on the market that can help. One resource
that particularly interests Morris Hospital
Diabetes Educator Diane Mangan is
continuous glucose monitoring, or CGM.
Instead of measuring glucose levels by
pricking a finger for blood, CGM allows a
person with diabetes to insert a tiny sensor
just underneath the skin that measures
interstitial, or tissue, glucose concentrations.
Once every five minutes, the measurement is
transmitted by radiofrequency to a handheld
transmitter that the patient can read.
Such moment-to-moment readings
of glucose levels can tell a lot about the
immediate effects of having an extra helping
of food at mealtime, taking a walk, skipping
breakfast or eating an apple for a snack
versus a candy bar.
“It really is so telling,” Mangan says. “There
is a little screen on the receiver, and you can
see graphs of the ups and downs and spikes
of your sugar levels. You can discuss what
you’re seeing with your doctor and decide
what changes you can make in your lifestyle
to keep your glucose levels more steady.”
People with diabetes are familiar with
fingerstick testing and hemoglobin A1c
blood glucose tests, which reveal average
blood sugar levels over three-month periods.
Continuous glucose monitoring provides the
details of minute by minute fluctuations.
“With CGM, we can see when blood sugars are spiking or dropping in a 24-hour period,” Mangan
says. “This gives us wide-open eyes to see how a patient’s behavior influences blood sugar. It can
also help physicians determine the most effective treatment and whether changes in medication
are necessary.”
The CGM sensor is placed under the skin by a physician, by the patient, or by a Morris Hospital
diabetes educator with a physician’s order. The sensor stays in place for up to seven days and then
the information collected is downloaded. When individuals have their own CGM, they can wear it
weekly or all the time.
Many health insurance companies will pay for the device, Mangan said, and Medicare and
Medicaid will also cover in some diagnostic situations.
Also new in diabetes management...
In addition to CGM, Mangan said there is a flow of new medications on the market for diabetes.
“It’s important to stay in close contact with your physician,” she says. “There are more than
90 medications for treating diabetes, and your physician will be able to help match one to your
particular needs.”
Other new evidence points to an even greater importance of exercise for people with diabetes.
“We know now that exercise is critically important,” Mangan says. “Individuals with diabetes
should get at least 150 minutes of exercise each week. It doesn’t need to be all at one time. You
can put in three 15-minute sessions in one day and can mix and match it anytime.”
She also recommends resistance training and says
combining cardiovascular and strength training is key
to meeting metabolic needs.
“This gives us wide-open
eyes to see how a patient’s
behavior influences blood
sugar. It can also help
physicians determine the
most effective treatment
and whether changes in
medication are necessary.”
Diane Mangan, R.N.
Certified Diabetes
Educator
Help from the Morris Hospital
Diabetes Education Center
Diabetes Educators from the Morris Hospital Diabetes
Education Center are dedicated to helping individuals
overcome challenges associated with diabetes through
healthy eating, physical activity, maintaining a healthy
weight, and medication management.
healthsource 8
Services include:
• One-on-one counseling with a physician’s order
• Monthly diabetes education classes
• Continuous Glucose Monitoring
For more information, call 815-705-7367.

Routine
Health Screening
Leads to
Startling Discovery
Randy Weese, with
wife Dana, is back to
work at his carpet
store in Morris
after a serious
discovery during a
wellness screening.
Wellness
Wednesday
Screenings
Offered at Morris Hospital every
Wednesday by appointment,
and Mondays-Fridays from
8 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Morris
Hospital Yorkville Campus
$35 Heart Healthy screening – includes
total cholesterol, LDL and HDL cholesterol,
triglycerides, and glucose for type 2
diabetes.
$20 Heart Smart screening - cholesterol
and glucose only.
$40 Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
screening - find out if you have blockages
in your arm and leg arteries through a
painless, non-invasive ultrasound test.
When Randy Weese learned that Morris Hospital offers a peripheral artery, carotid
artery, and abdominal aortic aneurysm screening through Wellness Wednesdays, he didn’t
hesitate to make an appointment. The 61-year-old owner of Dandy Floor Covering in Morris
previously had similar tests through a mobile screening service.
Yet this time, Randy received news that he never expected. When checking for an
abdominal aortic aneurysm, the ultrasound test revealed a mass on Randy’s kidney. His wife,
Dana, was equally surprised.
“Randy texted me and said Dr. (James) Allen called to tell him they found a mass on his
kidney during the screening,” recalls Dana. “He had no symptoms…nothing.”
Four days later, Randy had a CT scan that revealed more information about the mass and
then followed up with Dr. Greg Andros, a urologist on the Morris Hospital Medical Staff.
“When we went to see Dr. Andros, he said he was 90 percent sure it was cancer,” says Dana.
“He also said he didn’t know why Randy made an appointment for the Wellness Wednesday
screenings, but it was a good thing he did because usually by the time there are symptoms of
kidney cancer, it’s too late.”
While the three vascular screenings Morris Hospital offers through Wellness Wednesdays
certainly aren’t intended to screen for kidney cancer, Dr. Michael Jachec, a radiologist on
the Morris Hospital Medical Staff, says it’s not uncommon to detect unrelated issues during
diagnostic imaging exams like ultrasound, CT, MRI and x-ray.
“When we look at studies, we’re not just looking at the potential problem at hand,” says
Dr. Jachec. “We look at everything that’s captured on the image. It’s not uncommon for the
technologist or the radiologist to find something we weren’t necessarily looking for.”
Less than a month later, Randy underwent surgery at Morris Hospital to have his kidney
removed, which indeed turned out to be cancerous. Due to the success of the surgery and the
early stage of cancer, he has not required any additional treatment and will follow up with the
urologist in six months.
“Dr. Andros is confident that all the cancer was removed,” says Dana, adding that Randy is
doing great with his recovery. “He also said the tumor was fast growing and that we wouldn’t
have known it was there if it weren’t for the Wellness Wednesday screening.”
“Randy’s got a guardian angel looking over him,” says Dana. “We are definitely thankful.”
$40 Carotid Artery screening –
blockages or narrowing of the carotid
arteries in your neck can mean an
increased risk for stroke. This screening
involves a painless, non-invasive
ultrasound test.
$40 Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)
screening – sometimes the abdominal
aorta at the center of the chest and
abdomen becomes enlarged and at risk
of rupturing. This screening involves a
painless, non-invasive ultrasound test.
$100 Artery screening Bundle – have all
three artery screenings listed above (PAD,
carotid, AAA) at a discounted price of $100.
$50 Vitamin D screening – not enough
Vitamin D in your blood can lead to weak
and soft bones, while too much Vitamin
D can damage bones, soft tissue and
kidneys.
$50 Testosterone screening - as a
man ages, the amount of testosterone
in the body gradually declines. Check
for testosterone deficiency through this
simple blood test.
To schedule an appointment for
Wellness Wednesday screenings at
Morris Hospital, call 815-416-6089.
For an appointment at the Yorkville
Campus, call 630-553-8200.
www.morrishospital.org 9

healthsource 10

Unless otherwise mentioned, all classes are held at
Morris Hospital, 150 W. High Street, Morris. Online
registration is available for classes with this symbol
Please go to www.morrishospital.org/events
HELP FOR DIABETES
Diabetes Medications
March 14, 6-7 p.m.
There are over 100 medicines used to treat diabetes,
and almost 200 currently being researched. Come
hear a Morris Hospital registered pharmacist describe
medications available to help manage diabetes,
in addition to explaining medications you may
already be taking. Registration is not required. For
information, call 815-705-7367. (Free)
Get Moving with Diabetes
April 11, 6-7 p.m.
Individuals with diabetes know it is important to get
physical activity every day to help balance food and
medications. Sometimes it is difficult to get started
with physical activity. Come find out why it is so
important and some easy ways to get moving. Wear
comfortable clothing and shoes to this class lead by
a Morris Hospital physical therapist as we will be
participating in some simple exercises to get you
started. Registration is not required. For information,
call 815-705-7367. (Free)
Carbohydrate Counting
May 10, 6-7 p.m.
Learn how to improve your blood sugar through
healthy eating and carbohydrate counting. This class
is taught by a diabetes educator/registered dietitian.
Registration is not required. For information, call
815-705-7367. (Free)
Diabetes and Eye Health
June 13, 6-7 p.m.
Come and hear optometrist Angelo Marino from
Ortiz Eye and Hearing Associates discuss the importance
of eye care for people with diabetes. Dr. Marino
will address preventative care of the eyes and what
kinds of eye diseases or problems people with diabetes
are more likely to encounter. Registration is not
required. For information, call 815-705-7367. (Free)
KIDS CLASSES
Babysitter’s Training Course
March 4 or June 12, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Designed for youths age 11 and older, this course
can help babysitters: interview for a babysitting job,
choose safe and age-appropriate toys and games,
perform first aid, learn diapering and feeding techniques,
handle bedtime issues, and learn tips for having
a safe babysitting experience. Participants should
bring a doll to class. Lunch is included. Register
online or call 815-705-7365. ($40)
LIVING WITH CANCER
I Can Cope Cancer Support Group
March 9 and May 11, 1-3 p.m. at the Morris Regional
Oncology Center, 1600 West U.S. Route 6, Morris
This American Cancer Society educational series
is for people facing cancer, either personally or as
a friend or family caregiver. Register online or call
815-364-8915. (Free)
Look Good Feel Better
May 8, 1-3 p.m. at the Morris Regional Oncology Center,
1600 West U.S. Route 6, Morris
For women undergoing cancer treatment, this special
program is designed to teach beauty techniques
to help overcome the appearance-related side effects
of chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Register
online or call 815-364-8915. (Free)
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
Basic Life Support
March 1, April 5, May 10, June 13, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Intended for licensed and certified healthcare professionals,
this course teaches the skills of CPR for victims
of all ages, use of an automated external defibrillator
(AED) and relief of foreign-body airway obstruction.
Register online or call 815-705-7357. ($70)
Heartsaver AED/First Aid CPR
April 13, 4-8 p.m.; June 7, 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
Participants will learn the basic techniques of adult,
child and infant CPR and use of an automated external
defibrillator (AED) as well as first aid for choking.
Register online or call 815-705-7357. ($60)
CHILDBIRTH & FAMILY CLASSES
Please check morrishospital.org/events for additional
childbirth classes. For more information on childbirth
and family classes, call 815-942-3012.
Introduction to Breastfeeding
March 6, April 3, May 1, June 12, 9-10 a.m.
This class focuses on the benefits of breastfeeding,
pumping, and going back to work. Breastfeeding
moms will also get advice to help solve problems
related to breastfeeding. The class is taught by a
certified lactation consultant. Please register online.
(Free)
Baby Care Basics
March 7, April 11, 6-7:30 p.m.
This class covers everything parent needs to know
to bring their baby home with confidence. Through
presentation and demonstration, this program will
include newborn appearance/activity, feeding, warning
signs, and safety. Please register online. ($15)
Childbirth Express Class
March 7 & 14, 5-9 p.m.; April 6, 5-8:30 p.m.
This is great, one day class for women in their last
trimester of pregnancy covering labor, comfort
measures, relaxation and medical interventions. We
also cover pain management options and vaginal and
cesarean birth. A tour of the unit will take place at
the end of the class. Please register online. ($50)
New Siblings
March 8, 10-11 a.m.
This fun class is for children ages 3-7 who are preparing
to welcome a new brother or sister. Siblings-to-be
will learn how a newborn baby looks and acts and
what happens while mom and baby are in the hospital.
Activities, discussion and a tour of the birthing
suites helps them feel a part of the experience. Each
child should bring a doll or stuffed animal. Please
register online. ($5 per child)
Give the Gift of Life
Blood Drive
March 21, May 23, 12:30-4:30 p.m.
Give the gift of life by donating blood. Donors must
be at least 17 years old or 16 with written parental
permission, weigh at least 110 pounds, be symptom
free of cold, flu and allergies, and be in general good
health. Walk-ins are welcome. For information, call
815-705-7370. (Free)
SUPPORT GROUPS
Breathers’ Support Group
March 17, April 21, May 19, June 16, 10-11 a.m.
This support group is for anyone diagnosed with
chronic lung disease including COPD, asthma, emphysema,
bronchitis, and pulmonary fibrosis. Monthly
meetings include general discussions about ways to
manage chronic lung disease, gain emotional support,
and share with other patients. Lead by respiratory
therapists, a 20 minute educational topic is presented
at each meeting. Register online or call 815-705-7837.
(Free)
Heart Failure Support Group
March 9, April 6, May 4, June 1, 10-11 a.m.
This support group is for anyone who has been
diagnosed with heart failure, a chronic condition that
occurs when the heart muscle doesn’t pump blood as
well as it should. Each support group meeting includes
a 15-minute educational component as well as an opportunity
to participate in general discussions on ways
to manage heart failure and share experiences with
others. Register online or call 815-705-7832. (Free)
Stroke & Aphasia Support Group
Our Stroke Support Group is for individuals and
their loved ones who have experienced the loss of
physical function or communication due to a stroke
or other neurological event. In addition to quarterly
meetings in March, June, September and December,
support group members gather during the other
months to assure continuous support is available. For
additional details, please contact Ali Bute, Speech Pathologist
at Morris Hospital, at 815-705-7440. (Free)
Support for People with Oral, Head and
Neck Cancer (SPOHNC)
Meets the third Tuesday of every month, 2-3 p.m. at the
Morris Regional Oncology Center, 1600 West U.S. Route
6, Morris
This is a patient-directed self-help organization
directed to meeting the emotional, physical, and
humanistic needs of oral and head and neck cancer
patients and their caregivers. Survivors discuss their
situations, experiences, coping strategies and hopes.
For information, call 815-364-8915. (Free)
HELPFUL RESOURCES
Financial Assistance. As part of our commitment to
providing quality care for everyone, Morris Hospital
& Healthcare Centers offers a financial assistance
program. If you have any concerns about paying your
hospital bill, please call and speak to one of our patient
representatives at 815-942-2932, ext. 7056 or 7046.
Senior Health Insurance Program. A volunteer
counselor from the Senior Health Insurance Program
(SHIP) is available at Morris Hospital to provide free
health insurance counseling for Medicare beneficiaries
regarding Medicare and Medicare supplements,
long term care insurance, and Advantage plans. To
schedule an appointment, call 815-942-2932, ext. 1063.
Register online:
www.morrishospital.org/events
www.morrishospital.org 11

is written and produced as a community service
by Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers.
The information presented is not intended to treat,
diagnose or prevent any health condition. Always seek the
advice of your physician or other qualified health care
provider. The physician featured on page 4 is an
independent practitioner and is not an agent or
employee of Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers.
Like us!
Immediate CARE!
For minor injuries
and illness
Open 7 days
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Just walk-in!
It may not be an emergency,
but sometimes you want medical attention - FAST!
We offer:
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· Same level of quality and service
found at Morris Hospital
N
ILLINOIS
47
Morris Hospital
Yorkville Campus
ILLINOIS
71
Located just south of the intersection of
Route 71 and Route 47 (Bridge Street).
Immediate Care Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-7pm Sat-Sun 8am-2pm
105 Saravanos Drive Yorkville, IL 60560 630.553.8200
morrishospital.org/yorkville