Memorial Hospital News

3rd Edition of InTouch Newsletter

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

With this third edition of InTouch, Memorial is proud to announce our Emergency Department Renovation Details...

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In Touch

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

With this second edition of InTouch, we are proud to introduce to you MHCS new vision and value...

Deitemeyer to Lead Outpatient Operations

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Memorial Health Care System (MHCS) has promoted Tina Deitemeyer to Vice President of Outpatient Operations. In her new role, Deitemeyer will focus on the continued success, growth, development and implementation of innovative programs, strategies and partnerships at MHCS. She will lead non-hospital based patient functions at MHCS and manage a comprehensive patient/provider outreach, retention and growth strategy.

“I am excited about my new role at Memorial because I have a passion not only for the health care system but also the community,” said Deitemeyer. “It is truly an honor to have this opportunity to help lead MHCS as it continues to be one of the premier health care providers in the region.”

As Vice President of Outpatient Operations, Deitemeyer will be integral to MHCS’ providing of cooperative and courteous service to all internal and external customers, including patients, families, visitors, physicians, co-workers and businesses. She will continually implement initiatives that promote service excellence at Memorial. Deitemeyer will also lead in developing more patient satisfaction programs for outpatient services.

According to John C. Yanes, MHCS Chief Executive Officer, “Tina brings passion, integrity and determination to the table at Memorial Health Care System. It is a privilege to have her as a leader in our organization.”

Previous to her promotion, Deitemeyer performed in the role of Operations Administrator for MHCS’ Occupational Medicine program for more than 2 years. She has been serving in the interim role of Director of Operations and Service Line Development and most recently was named MHCS Corporate Compliance Officer. Deitemeyer has more than 15 years of experience in health care.

Vogel Named as Director of Center for Mental Health & Well-Being

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

An associate of the MHCS since October 2000, he served as the Clinical Supervisor of Outpatient Behavioral Health Services. Vogel is a licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a Master’s Degree in Counseling.

The Center has 2 locations—in Fremont and in Findlay. In addition to managing the day-to-day operations of the business in both locations, Vogel’s new duties will include: marketing the Center, overseeing budget and fiscal responsibilities, maintaining quality and ethical practice, overseeing Joint Commission/regulatory policies, process improvement, clinical outcomes, and staff development.

There are currently seven clinicians and four psychiatrists employed by The Center. Average number of outpatient visits per month between the 2 sites is approximately 1,000 and includes appointments with doctors and clinicians, as well as psychiatry services to BGSU students at the main campus and services in local nursing homes.

S&P Reports BBB- Bond Rating

Sun, 21 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Memorial Health Care System Receives BBB- Rating According to S&P Report.

Memorial Hospital, as most other healthcare organizations, has a bond rating as determined by Standard and Poor’s (S&P). Although several healthcare organizations have been downgraded as a result of their financial performance during the current poor economic conditions, The S&P’s Rating Services affirmed Memorial Hospital’s BBB-rating. This favorable rating reflects Memorial’s adequate balance sheet, improved fiscal year 2008 operating results and interim fiscal year 2009 results, which are ahead of budget and previous year’s results.

Rick Ruppel, Chief Financial Officer stated, “Given today’s economic times, hospital management was very pleased that Standard and Poor’s recognized the hospitals ongoing initiatives that contribute to the ‘stable outlook’ when so many health care facilities have been recently downgraded and/or received a negative outlook by rating agencies. Management attributes its stable outlook to the collective efforts of all associates in making Memorial the preferred health care system.”

The S&P also noted that Memorial has been able to maintain 36% of its market share within the primary service area. Concerns include the hospital’s relatively small size as evidenced by $62 million in operating revenue for fiscal year 2008 and the inherent risk with a facility this size.

Chief Executive Officer, John Yanes said “We welcome this decision by S&P. Although we still have significant challenges to overcome given the inherent risk with a facility our size, our strong focus on effectively managing our cost with the support of our physicians who have entrusted to us the care of their patients, we have been able to achieve desired financial results. Certainly, only one measure of our success.” Yanes added, “We will continue to focus on improving service levels, achieve desired clinical outcomes, strengthen key service lines and work cooperatively with the medical staff to better serve our community.”

Standard & Poor’s is a division of McGraw-Hill that publishes financial research and analysis on stocks and bonds. One of its services includes producing both short term and long term credit ratings.

Gibsonburg Physical Medicine Office Expands

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Memorial Health Care System and the Physical Medicine Department are pleased to announce the expansion of the Gibsonburg Physical Therapy Office. The Gibsonburg Office has added an additional 216 sq. ft. of space to accommodate the increased volume of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy patients.

In celebration of this expansion, the Gibsonburg Office will be hosting an open house on June 25, 2009 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Join us for refreshments, giveaways and the chance to win a gift basket along with free blood pressure screens and injury assessments.

Memorial Physical Medicine has been an active member of the Gibsonburg community and treats patients for sports medicine injuries, headaches, vertigo/dizziness, lymph edema, neck and back pain and general neurological and orthopedic surgeries.

For additional information about the open house or the Physical Medicine Department in Gibsonburg, please contact Fred Garcia at 419-637-2161.

Child Development Programs Offered

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Physical Medicine Department of Memorial Hospital will offer a variety of child development programs, which are open to children of all abilities, throughout the summer. The activities include:

Sounds of Summer: is a series of language and literacy enrichment groups led by licensed speech-language pathologists to encourage listening, language, and social skill development. The program costs $50. For more information, contact Speech Therapy at 419-334-6630. The three different tracks of this program include:

Toddler Talk: (Ages 2-3): Parents and children will enjoy stories, music, and structured playtime to promote language and social skill development. This program is offered in two sessions on Thursdays 9-10 AM and 10:30-11:30 AM from June 11-July 16.
Language and Literacy Link: (Ages 3-5): Children will participate in stories and activities to promote language and early reading skills. This program is offered on Tuesdays 9-10 AM June 9- July 14.
Language and Literacy: Who, What, When & Where? (Ages 6-9): Children will participate in structured enrichment activities to promote language and social skills. Vocabulary and grammar will be enhanced through written language activities during each session. This program will be offered Tuesdays at 1-2:30 from June 9-July 14.

Motions of Summer: Is a weekly program to promote fine and gross motor skills led by licensed physical and occupational therapy staff. Children will work in a group setting to encourage improved writing, cutting, hand coordination, running, balance, and eye-hand coordination. Cost of the series is $125.00. For more information, contact Physical or Occupational Therapy at 419-334-6630
Fine and Gross Motor Fun: (Ages 5-8): Children will be working weekly with physical and occupational therapy assistants to encourage fine and gross motor development. This program will be held Thursdays at 1-3 PM June 18-July 23.

For information on these programs and other physical, occupational or speech therapy services, please contact the Physical Medicine Department of Memorial Hospital at 419-334-6630.

New Vice President of Quality and Organizational Development

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Karla Falls has been named the new Vice President for Quality and Organizational Development at Memorial Health Care System (MHCS). A graduate of Central Michigan University (CMU) with a bachelor's degree in psychology and a master's in health care administration, Falls has more than 20 years of health care experience. She has been employed at MHCS since 1986 and is a licensed social worker.

"Since 1986, Karla has developed a solid track record of notable accomplishments at MHCS," said John Yanes, MHCS Chief Executive Officer.

In her new role, Falls will lead patient and guest centered initiatives, initiate and oversee quality and performance improvement activities, manage organization-wide continuing education programs as well as take an active role in all quality and patient safety activities that take place at MHCS. Falls' position is essential in maintaining and improving the quality of care provided by MHCS, she will direct or provide strategic support for all patient and guest service initiatives. The position will be essential in realizing strategic objectives of quality and patient safety at MHCS.

"Karla is respected by the medical staff, peers and employees. In addition to her experience and skill, I have been most impressed with Karla's common sense approach to unravel complicated situations," added Yanes.

Previously at MHCS, Falls served as the Director of The Center for Mental Health and Well Being – which she established, Director of Mental Health and Director of Social Work.

Welcome Cynthia Flynn, M.D.

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Memorial Hospital is pleased to welcome the arrival of Cynthia K. Flynn, M.D. - the newest OB/GYN addition to the Women's Health Specialists team.

Dr. Flynn received her medical degree from Michigan State University and completed her residency at Oakwood Hospital in Dearborn, Michigan. Some of her professional interests include obstetrics, vaginal surgery, menopause, and sexual dysfunction. Dr. Flynn performs in-office surgeries including hysteroscopy and endometrial ablation.

John Zimmerman M.D. Golf Classic Memorial

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Generosity, kindheartedness, and his sense of humor are all qualities that people admire about Dr. John Zimmerman. He is a man of honor and dedication to not only his profession by also his community. Instrumental in establishing the Memorial Hospital Foundation, he worked countless hours to ensure the future of the Memorial Health Care System (MHCS) as we know it today.

In fact, his continued dedication to Memorial Health Care System is exactly why the Annual Golf Classic has been named in his honor.

Memorial Health Care System is committed to improving and enriching the lives of everyone in the community that we serve. This ongoing commitment is clearly evident in the millions of dollars of care MHCS provides regardless of an individual's ability to pay. Although this is clearly the right thing to do, it also brings special challenges.

On many occasions, MHCS has had to rely on compassionate donors to help in purchasing the latest equipment and building state-of-the-art facilities to accommodate these medical advances.

By supporting the 23rd annual golf outing, you are doing your part in ensuring the continued success of your community hospital. The funds raised in this outing will be put into an endowment fund to ensure we can continue to help the people in this community for many years to come.

The John Zimmerman, M.D. Golf Classic will be held on Friday, June 12 at the Green Hills Golf Course. Registration will begin at 9:00 a.m.

To view or print the John Zimmerman, M.D. Golf Classic brochure, click the link below:

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Innovative Care and Five-Star Service Benchmark of Memorial Health Care System

Mon, 04 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Memorial Health Care System (MHCS) recently announced its new vision and value statements.

Following a leadership retreat with Department Directors, Board of Directors and representatives from the Foundation Board and Auxiliary, MHCS created a new organizational vision. As of April 3, MHCS is proud to introduce the following vision: "the preferred health care system nationally recognized for providing innovative care and 5-STAR service."

"For several months we have been working toward creating the structure and systems that focus our efforts in placing patients first and raising service levels," noted MHCS Chief Executive Officer John C. Yanes.

In the coming months, MHCS will continue to introduce new programs that will focus on service and operational excellence.

"Our associates (i.e. employees), medical staff, and Board of Directors are committed to providing quality patient care, but we recognize that there's room for improvement. There’s a renewed focus on aligning our efforts with the medical staff to fulfill our obligation to the community," added Yanes.

In addition to the recent visible improvements to the Main Lobby and announced plans to renovate the emergency department, MHCS has initiated quality and service initiatives based on specific goals and measurable results. The development of a new vision statement is the culmination of the efforts to build on MHCS’s past successes while positioning the organization to serve the community into the future.

"On April 1 we introduced a new Patient Satisfaction System which will allow us to measure our patients’ experience while they entrust their care to us," noted Karla Falls, Vice President of Quality and Organizational Development. "We must create an environment and processes that support our purpose and our customers," added Falls.

MHCS has also created organizational values which states "we are dedicated to service delivered with passion, empathy, and genuine respect."

"With the establishment of our core values, we want guests at MHCS to understand that when they are with us, they are under the care of passionate, respectful, and empathic health-care professionals. We cannot take for granted that Memorial has been serving the community for 90 years. We must continue to earn the right to serve our community," added Yanes.

"Everyone at each of our facilities contributes to our success, which aids us in realizing our vision, assists us in keeping to our values and ultimately benefits our community," said Yanes.

Gorman Healing Garden Dedication

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

On Friday, May 29, 2009 the Memorial Hospital Foundation will dedicate the "Gorman Healing Garden," honoring Al and Diane Gorman for their countless hours of service to the hospital and the community.

The phrase "Healing Garden" evokes soothing images of peace and tranquility...a place to sit and think things over, or just relax and quiet the mind. To name such a place of beauty after someone is to bestow a great tribute on that person. To name it after a husband-wife team is truly a great honor. What kind of person deserves such recognition? Volumes can be written about achievements and awards, but the real truth about the character of a person comes from friends and co-workers who work side by side with him or her every day.

"Al is one of the most caring, thoughtful, sensitive people I know. He truly sees the best in everyone, and is there when you need any kind of help. He has mentored numerous teens, several of whom returned to visit him as adults. He would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it. His sense of humor is unmatched, except perhaps by Diane. They compliment each other well and are delightful to be around. His family comes first..."

"...and on and on. The people who were around Al on a daily basis were full of good stories about him and praise for him.

And, as everyone knows, behind every good man is a wonderful woman, and Diane is that woman. A nurse by profession, she is a soft-spoken, kind-hearted woman who became involved with the auxiliary when Al arrived at Memorial in 1992. To this day she volunteers in the hospital's gift shop. Those who know her are unanimous in their praise, "She is a nice, very pleasant person with a great sense of humor and a ready smile."

Together, they became involved in many community groups and charity organizations dedicated to the betterment of life for both adults and children, while becoming a positive and effective influence for others. Their legacy—just as the garden’s—will far outlive them.

A recent interview with Al (Diane was volunteering at the gift shop that afternoon) revealed that the couple had done some traveling since his retirement, visiting their kids who are "all spread out around the country." He said he had more time now to relax and enjoy life. He is planning to ride in The Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure” (GOBA) in June, a 5-day bicycling trip that will start and end in Norwalk this year and cover 45-60 miles each day. When asked if there was any single accomplishment that gave him the most personal satisfaction during his 16 years at Memorial, he paused a moment, and then said, "No, there was no single thing, it was the whole adventure—making the hospital stronger than it was when I first arrived, and leaving it with technology in place that will lead it into the future...the total journey." He said he and Diane were honored by—and appreciative of—the dedication of the garden in their name, but it was something they had never expected. In closing comments, Al said, "Communities like Fremont have to work together and support each other. We need to focus on our youth and contribute to their growth because they are our future. We have to help our young people grow to be good and great leaders."

Al and Diane are the kind of people who deserve recognition, although they would be the first to deny it.

What is a "healing garden?"

It is a sanctuary which provides rest and renewal through the beauty of nature. The healing garden is the lower garden area at the Herbert Perna Center for Physical Health. The ground upon which this garden lies is intended to be a place of peace and rejuvenation—as it has been for centuries: for the Native Americans who traveled this way and camped nearby; for the people who called this home; for the nurses who resided and studied here. Historically, it has been a part of the Hayes Estate. Now, it is a place for you.

All are invited—so please join us for the dedication of the "Gorman Healing Garden" on Friday, May 29^th from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM in the lower garden area of the Herbert Perna Center for Physical Health. The Dedication will begin at 5:00 PM. Light refreshments will be served. Dress according to the weather conditions. We hope to see you there.

Lobby Renovations

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Memorial Health Care System has celebrated a number of successes over its 90-year legacy. In continuing to build on that legacy of service and caring, Memorial Health Care System has initiated the renovation of Memorial Hospital's Main Lobby. In addition to upgrading the look of the Lobby, the project will significantly improve patient flow and comfort.

"Our top priority is to improve customer service and ensure that our guests have a positive, enjoyable experience," said John C. Yanes, Chief Executive Officer of Memorial Health Care System. "I am fully aware that our guest's experience begins when they walk through our front doors. Our guests have to feel welcome."

The renovation will include updating the lighting, flooring, furniture, and wall paint. In addition, a water feature will be added in memory of a local family as well as a fireplace in the Weitzel Kern Surgery Center Lobby.

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The Project Details

"To date, the Memorial Hospital Foundation and the Memorial Hospital Auxiliary have raised nearly three fourths of the entire cost of the project," said Yanes.

According to Joe Buti, Director of Materials Management and Engineering, the price tag for the entire renovation is $200,000, and includes approximately 8,300 square feet.

As a result of the renovation, individuals entering the Hospital will be redirected to a temporary registration area. Memorial Health Care System volunteers and facility hosts will be available near the main entrance to assist patients and visitors. "This has been a fantastic team effort. We're very pleased with the employees that have made this project possible as well as the Foundation, Auxiliary and private donors in the community." added Yanes.

The renovation project is scheduled to be complete in March. For timely updates on its progress, please visit Memorial Health Care System web site at www.memorialhcs.org.

If you would like to participate in the project by making a donation, please contact Chasity O'Neill, Foundation Development Director, at 419-334-6667. For additional information on the renovation, please call Joe Buti, Director of Materials Management and Engineering, at 419-334-6633.

April - Autism Awareness Month

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Speech-Language Pathologists: Helping People with Autism during Autism Awareness Month and Always

Autism is a neurologically based disorder that affects communication and social interaction. Other types of disorders that exist on the autism spectrum include Asperger syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, Rett syndrome (in girls), and pervasive development disorder. Early signs of autism can be seen by 12 months and diagnosis can be made as early at 24 months.

Social and Communication Problems in Autism

Children and adults with autism have different types of communication and social abilities. Communication problems may be delayed language, limited speech, poor vocabulary, problems following directions, repeating what is heard, difficulty answering questions, problems with conversation skills, difficulty understanding facial expressions, and incorrect use of pronouns (he, she, it, they, me, mine, yours). Social interaction problems may include poor eye contact with people and objects, becoming overly focused on topics or objects of interest, poor play skills, disliking touch or being held, and showing bizarre emotion for no known reason. Individuals with autism may also have trouble reacting to their world by rocking, hand-flapping, or spinning. Other reactive problems are difficulty dealing with change, sensitivity to light or sound, no fear of danger, and feeding difficulties like only accepting select foods or refusing certain textures.

What do Speech-Language Pathologists do to Help People with Autism?

Speech-Language Pathologists assess and provide intervention services for children and adults with autism to improve communication and social skills. The services help with early communication skills like gestures and sounds, listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, conversation skills like turn taking and staying on topic, and developing communication systems for those who do not talk. The earlier speech and language services start, the better. Early identification and treatment for autism increase the chances for improving communication and quality of life.

How Can I Help?

If you think that someone has a communication or social problem related to autism, it is important to seek the help of a speech-language pathologist. Memorial Hospital in Fremont, Ohio offers services to assist patients and families who are affected by autism or related disorders. Ask your family physician or medical specialist about a referral for speech therapy or associated discipline such as occupational or physical therapy. Memorial Hospital’s team of developmental specialists can advise about ways to stimulate development at home, at school, and at work. You can contact the Physical Medicine Department at Memorial Hospital at 419-334-6630. For more information about Autism Awareness Month and the disorder, visit www.autismspeaks.org.

Written By: Erin Schmidt, MS, CCC-SLP

Memorial Hospital Fremont, Ohio

April celebrates Occupational Therapy Awareness Month.

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Occupational Therapy revolves around teaching individuals how to be more independent. There are many age groups served by the skills of Occupational Therapists: children, young adults, adults, and the elderly.

Occupational Therapy reteaches the skills necessary for many areas including fine motor coordination, upper body strength, handwriting, attention to tasks, daily living skills such as dressing, feeding oneself, bathing, making a meal, and the ability to follow a map; we can also assist in home modification recommendations to contractors. Occupational therapists can be seen in schools, nursing homes, outpatient rehabilitation centers, hospitals in and the public. Visit www.aota.org for more information. To schedule an appointment with an Occupational Therapist contact the Physical Medicine Department of Memorial Hospital at 419-334-6630.