Fall 2008

Healthy starts here.

Healthy starts now.
• Children’s feature: Three keys to a successful school year
• Simplify your life with assisted living
• Physician assistants, nurse practitioners provide quality patient care

Healthy Connections is published by
Winona Health to provide you with
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and the many healthcare resources
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Making the most of each day
F all is right around the corner—as the warm
afternoons turn into cool evenings and the leaves
on the trees turn from a rich green to blazing oranges
and yellows. I’m reminded of a saying that makes
more sense to me every year: Time seems to fly by
more quickly as we age. As the mother of three, I see
those quickly changing times reflected in my children.
As they have moved from infant … to toddler … to
school-aged children and teens, the changes appear to
happen overnight.
So we’re committed, as a family, to make the most of Rachelle H. Schultz
President/CEO
each day. And we know that includes making healthy
choices. This issue of Healthy Connections is a valuable resource for parents with
children of all ages. Our features include an announcement about our second year
of the Healthy Kids Club (p. 3), an article about a teen-aged athlete’s recovery
from a football injury (p. 6), and the benefits of regular check-ups for youngsters
(p. 7). Of course, our families also include our older relatives, and you’ll enjoy the
interview with 90-year-old Ruth Golish (p. 10). She moved to Watkins Manor, our
assisted living facility for independent seniors, a year ago and is glad she did.

Whether an independent senior or a school-aged child, Winona Health has the

healthcare services to address your needs. On both the national and local scenes
In this issue... those healthcare needs are often met by non-physician providers—including nurse
practitioners and physician assistants. The article on p. 4 introduces you to our 14
2 Making the most of each day
3 Healthy Kids Club ready to kick non-physician providers. We are fortunate to have many clinical experts in our
off year two! organization; as we grow and change to meet our community’s evolving needs,
4 Physician assistants, nurse these clinicians play an increasingly important role.
practitioners provide quality
patient care I can tell you from personal experience that our nurse practitioners and physician
6 ‘Best care’ leads to anticipated assistants provide quality healthcare services. Whether you, your children or your
return
parents need an appointment for a general physical or for a specific incident, we
7 Healthy starts here: Supporting
parents; caring for kids hope you’ll consider using Winona Health services.
8 Healthy starts now: Three keys to
a successful school year Making the most of each day—whether in summer, fall, winter or spring—includes
10 Thinking about simplifying? finding a provider to partner with you to take care of your and your family’s
Assisted living could be your best healthcare needs. Our providers enjoy being and look forward to becoming your
move
healthcare partners through all the stages of your life.
12 Foundation & Auxiliary news
15 Winona Health news & notes
16 Upcoming classes & events

On the cover: Collin, 1, Izaac, 13, and

Brynn, 3, enjoy the health benefits of Rachelle H. Schultz
staying active. President/CEO

2 Healthy Connections • Fall 2008

Healthy Kids Club ready to kick off year two!
H ealthy Kids Club began in
October 2007 with the goal
of encouraging grade-school-aged
children to make healthy choices. In
its first year, it served more than 500
children at its special events, and
thanks to funding from the Winona
Health Foundation, provided 693 free
Wellness Journals to area children.

Year two of Healthy Kids Club kicks

off Saturday, September 27. And we’re
expecting it to be even bigger and
better this year!

“The feedback we’ve received during Fun and fitness with the family—Participants in the Step into Summer event
our first year from children and adults enjoyed some family time while engaging in healthy activities including a fun walk
around Lake Winona, inflatable obstacle courses, casting stations and more!
who participated in Healthy Kids Club
was very positive. We’ve taken that
feedback and used it to enhance our have a chance to win prizes and enjoy the Ironman
programming this year,” said Jennifer Olson, Winona inflatable obstacle course. Children attending this kick-off
Health community relations coordinator. event may pick up a Wellness Journal when they register.
In addition, all fourth grade students in area schools will
“But our goal for the program remains the same— receive a Journal this year.
teaching children the importance of making good
decisions and developing healthy lifestyle habits,” noted “Healthy Kids Club is a wonderful way to engage
Olson. “Whether Healthy Kids Club teaches kids to not only our children but also our families in building
eat better, get outdoors to be more active or helps them a healthy community,” said Susan Roehrich, retired
develop self-esteem, it’s making a positive difference in curriculum director, Winona Area Public Schools.
their lives.”
Added Olson, “Healthy kids have better self confidence
All children ages 6 to 11, accompanied by an adult, are and do better in school. With the help of our community
invited to attend this year’s kick-off event at the Winona partners, we are excited to be offering this program
Middle School. (See box below.) Participants will visit for the second year to continue making a difference to
fun informational booths, take part in healthy activities, children in our community.”

Calling all 6– to 11–year–olds for the second annual Healthy Kids Club kick-off event!
Saturday, September 27 • 9 a.m.–noon
Winona Middle School • 1570 Homer Road • Winona, MN
The event is free and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Sign up for the Healthy Kids Club e-news list!

To receive notification of Healthy Kids Club events via e-mail, sign up for free HKC e-mails at winonahealth.org/HKC.

Healthy Connections • Fall 2008 3

Physician assistants, nurse practitioners
provide quality patient care
N ationwide, more patients
are receiving care from
physician assistants (PA) and
nurse practitioners (NP) for their
healthcare needs. Locally, PAs and
NPs also are playing a growing role
in patient care.

More than 250,000 PAs and

NPs practice in the U.S., with
14 providing services in Winona
Health’s primary care and specialty
clinics, as well as in its Emergency
Department.

These non-physician providers work

in partnership with a supervising
physician to form a healthcare team
to benefit patients. “We have a very
collaborative relationship with our
physicians,” Tara Suffrins, CNP,
said. “While we manage our own
patients, we use the physicians for Full Range of Care—Joy Stevens, PA-C, visits with one of her young patients at
consults or referrals. This allows us the Rushford Clinic. Physician assistants can fully care for patients, calling on supervising
to excel and provide the best care for physicians for consultations and referrals when necessary.
our patients.”
Patient education plays important role
Added Aaron Schilling, PA-C, “Seeing a physician
assistant or nurse practitioner offers increased access for Physician assistants are educated in the medical model—
patients and a high standard of care, expanding the reach sharing many of the core classes as physicians. Nurse
of the physician as well. We are able to provide care to a practitioners are registered nurses who have completed
larger volume of patients by using a team approach.” a higher degree of education, such as a master’s or
doctorate. These non-physician providers’ role often
Schilling works side-by-side with orthopaedic surgeon
emphasizes patient education on preventative care and
Tim Gabrielsen, MD, at Winona Health Sports and
advising patients on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, along
Orthopaedic Specialists. Their relationship is built
with diagnosis and treatment of medical problems.
upon trust and teamwork—giving Schilling the
independence to provide quality care to patients, consult Suffrins is a Winona native and a third-generation nurse
with Gabrielsen when appropriate and assist on many working at the Winona Clinic’s Center for Women’s
surgeries. Health. Providing care for women of all ages, Suffrins’

4 Healthy Connections • Fall 2008

role often involves generalized counseling for all aspects
of women’s health. “As a nurse practitioner, I am able to
provide my patients with education and build more time
into visits in order to create relationships with them,”
Suffrins said. “I focus on a holistic approach—once a
nurse, always a nurse!”
Because of their collaborative role with the physicians,
physician assistants’ and nurse practitioners’ time can be
more flexible to the patients’ needs. Schilling often will
stay longer with patients after they have completed their
appointment with Dr. Gabrielsen to answer any additional
questions. “I will review patients’ tests with them and
correlate what we’re seeing with a model to help them
have a more thorough understanding of their condition,”
Schilling said.
This flexibility allows for patients and providers to
develop trusting relationships. Joy Stevens, PA-C,
provides care at the Rushford Clinic and enjoys that extra
time with her patients. “I love interacting with patients,
especially here in Rushford.” Stevens said. “I get to know
my patients, the families and nearly everyone in town.”

Physician assistants & nurse practitioners at Winona Health

Physician assistants and nurse practitioners work in the Winona Health Physician Clinics and departments listed. For
more information on these providers, visit winonahealth.org and click on Find a Provider.

Family Practice Internal Medicine

Donna J. Kamann, CNP Christina Nitti Velasquez, NP Lisa J. Nutter, FNP-C Joy Stevens, PA-C Traci J. Morken, CNP Ann Marie Olsen, CNP

Orthopaedics Women’s Health

Responsibilities—
PAs’ and NPs’ responsibilities
include, but are not limited to:
• managing overall patient care
• diagnosing and treating acute
and chronic diseases
Aaron Schilling, PA-C Holly J. Fratzke, CNP Ann F. Olson, CNP Tara Suffrins, CNP
• performing physical exams
• ordering and interpreting Emergency Med Urgent Care
diagnostic test results
• developing and monitoring
treatment plans
• educating on preventative care
and healthy lifestyles
• prescribing medication
Joel Stevens, PA-C Amy Christianson, NP Howard Gorder, PA-C Susan Smith, FNP

Healthy Connections • Fall 2008 5

‘Best care’ leads to anticipated return
Area athlete is ready to get back on the field after a year of recovery
B randon Boynton, a freshman at Cochrane-Fountain
City (C-FC) High School, is very excited for his
2008 football season. Last fall, he tore his anterior
cruciate ligament (ACL) during a pre-season scrimmage
when an athlete from the opposing team dove helmet-first
into the front of Brandon’s locked right knee—bringing
his season to an early end.
Brandon’s mom, Lana, relied on close friends to
recommend care for the injury. Lana contacted Winona
State’s head football coach Tom Sawyer, her former
physical education teacher when she attended C-FC, for
advice. Sawyer recommended his own team’s physician,
Richard Romeyn, MD, from Winona Health Sports
& Orthopaedic Specialists. Lana received the same
recommendation from another C-FC family as well.
“As a mom, I wanted the best care for my son,” Lana
said. “Coach Sawyer said he trusted Dr. Romeyn as the
best in the area, so we trusted him as well.”
In October, Brandon underwent extensive ACL surgery
at Community Memorial Hospital where Dr. Romeyn
had to use part of Brandon’s own hamstring to replace
the completely torn ligament. After nine months of
rehabilitation, Brandon claims to have 99% of his
strength back in the knee, with only minor range-of-
motion limitations still lingering.
“In order for patients to do
well, every member of the
team needs to do his or her
part,” Dr. Romeyn said.
“Brandon has certainly
done everything we asked
him to do; he has done
exceedingly well.”
Great anticipation—
Brandon Boynton, 15, is
anxious to return to football
at Cochrane-Fountain City
High School.
6 Healthy Connections • Fall 2008
This summer, Brandon found himself healthy enough
to be competitive with upperclassmen at a strength and
agility camp at C-FC. Although he plans to wear his knee
brace for this football season to assist in mobility, he
hopes that by next year he won’t need it at all.
For now, he is just eager to get back to work at what he
loves. “After giving it my all during summer training, I
have my confidence back,” Brandon said. “I am excited to
get back out there to compete and start hitting again.”
Steps for injury prevention
W hile it may seem that you have no control
over whether an injury occurs, there are
recommended steps an athlete can take to help prevent
them. A great way to start is by scheduling yearly
physicals with a qualified medical professional.
Winona Health Certified Athletic Trainer, Judi Tekautz,
identifies three areas that can aid in injury prevention:
• Technique: It is important for athletes to learn and
practice the proper technique and mechanics of their
sport in order to play the game safely. Improper
technique can put an athlete’s health and safety at risk.
• Preparation: Athletes should begin conditioning—
including weight training—eight weeks prior to the
start of a season. This will help the body acclimate
itself to the conditions it will experience once the
season begins. Preparation should include simulating
the actual environment as much as possible.
• Safety: Athletes should always wear and use athletic
equipment properly to help prevent injuries. Using the
wrong, or improperly fitted, equipment can increase
the risk of injury.
Do not ignore injury warning signs. Athletes should
consult with a physician when pain or injury keeps
them from performing at 100%. For more resources
available to athletes visit winonahealth.org/sports.

Easy access to care—Sarah Curtin, mother of Caitlin, 4, and Patrick, 15 months, appreciates the availability and responsiveness
of the staff at Winona Clinic’s Pediatric/Adolescent Medicine. Here Craig Anderson, MD, assesses Patrick’s overall health.
Healthy starts here:
Supporting parents; caring for kids
F rom performing well-child exams to providing
expert care on a variety of issues, having healthcare
providers close to home is beneficial to parents.
Jen, mother of Izaac, 13, Brynn, 3, and Collin, 1,
appreciates having a variety of local healthcare providers
who have gotten to know her children. She said, “I love
the pediatric nursing staff. They know us when we come
in, and now they know me when I call with questions. Dr.
[Joan] Krueger [pediatrician] has really gotten to know
our children. She’s always open to our questions, and it’s
obvious that she really cares.”
Well-child visits can be as much for parents as they are
for children. “We encourage parents to bring a list of
questions or concerns to discuss during well-child check
ups,” noted Winona Health pediatrician Craig Anderson,
MD. “And if you know your child will need a school
physical in the near future, you can bring in those forms
and have that taken care of at the same time.”
From the Cover
While well-child visits are a good time to check on your
child’s overall health and development, Dr. Anderson
advises not waiting for your next well child exam
to address chronic issues, such as frequent stomach
aches, headaches and learning or behavior problems.
“For chronic issues, I recommend scheduling a visit to
specifically address those concerns, and we can set aside a
little longer visit to focus on that issue.”
Having a healthcare provider close to home increases
peace of mind for many parents. “The staff here is caring
and responsive,” said Sarah, mother of Caitlin, 4, and
Patrick, 15 months. “Even when I’ve had questions
on weekends or after hours, they’ve gotten back to me
promptly, and it’s usually easy to get in to see someone.”
To schedule a visit with a Family Practice or Pediatrics
provider, contact Lewiston (507.523.2127), Rushford
(507.864.7726) or Winona (507.454.3680) Clinics.
Healthy Connections • Fall 2008 7
 From the Cover

Healthy starts now:

Three keys to a successful school year
A healthy combination of Food, Activity and Rest will take your child FAR

S chool supplies have been

purchased, emergency medical
forms have been completed and
locker combinations and class
schedules have been memorized­­­—a
new school year is underway.
Remembering a few key factors can
help ensure your children have the
basics for making it a successful year
of learning and growing.

Food/nutrition: fuel for

school and play
Craig Anderson, MD, a Winona
Health pediatrician, noted, “A healthy
breakfast helps prevent children (and
adults) from getting restless and tired.
And because kids who eat breakfast
Make it fun!—Brynn, 3, Izaac, 13, and Collin, 1, enjoy playing outdoors. Activity
have more energy and are better able doesn’t have to feel like “exercise.” Any time spent being active throughout the day
to concentrate in class, it follows that adds up to improved concentration, higher quality sleep and better health.
generally they’ll do better in school.”
In addition to eating nutritious foods, Dr. Anderson
recommends making time for healthy family meals.
He said the best breakfast choices include complex
“Eating together has a positive impact on emotional
carbohydrates such as oatmeal, whole-grain breads,
health. It provides time to talk about school and other
bagels and cereal, low-fat yogurt or milk, and protein
issues that are important to your child.”
including eggs or lean meat. “Complex carbohydrates
and proteins stay with you longer. And because they take
longer to metabolize, you won’t have a mid-morning Being physically Active provides benefits
dip in blood sugar that causes drowsiness, increased beyond physical fitness
irritability and sometimes headaches.”
An active child enjoys many benefits, including having
stronger muscles and bones. But the benefits of exercise
Dr. Anderson recommends limiting simple sugars, such go beyond looking and feeling fit.
as corn syrup, dextrose and fructose, which cause blood
sugar to quickly and temporarily rise then drop. Keep “In addition to lowering blood pressure, cholesterol levels
healthy, easy-to-prepare options on hand so that when in a and decreasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes,
hurry, your child will find a nutritious breakfast. active children are better able to cope with everyday

8 Healthy Connections • Fall 2008


challenges—including paying attention in class,” said Dr. Anderson.
Although the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
recommends that children get at least 60 minutes of moderate to
vigorous exercise on most days, Dr. Anderson emphasizes, “The
minutes don’t have to be consecutive. Rather than focusing on how
much time children ‘should’ be active, focus instead on doing activities
your children enjoy.”
Activities that you can do socially or independently can incorporate
endurance, strength and flexibility—including normal childhood
activities like playing tag and playing on the playground. Dr. Anderson
advises, “Make it fun and teach your child activities that they’ll be able
to enjoy throughout their lives.”
Another benefit to being active is that it will help children fall asleep
and improve their quality of sleep. Dr. Anderson noted, “If kids spend
time actively playing after school and/or after dinner, then have a
regular bedtime routine, such as taking a bath and having reading time,
it will improve their ability to get a good night’s sleep.” And rest is
another key factor to good health.
Rest keeps brains, bodies functioning at their best
Everybody needs rest—especially growing children. “Like having a
healthy breakfast, getting enough rest enhances children’s ability to pay
attention in class and get more out of their lessons,” said Dr. Anderson.
He points out that while there are some guidelines for how much rest is
enough (about 10 to 12 hours for preschoolers; 10 hours for 6–9 year
olds; 9 hours for 10–12 year olds; and 8 to 9-1/2 hours for teens), it
may vary significantly from child to child, just as it does for adults.
Establishing regular sleeping hours is beneficial, as irregular sleep
patterns can make quality sleep more difficult. Lack of sleep can cause
moodiness and irritability and makes it more difficult to concentrate.
Sleep deprivation also can lead to decreased short-term memory.
It’s important to ensure that children have adequate time for homework,
play and rest. Watch for signs that your child is overloaded: increased
moodiness or feeling overwhelmed are signs that you may need to scale
back on your child’s schedule.
“One of the benefits to making sure your children get the right
combination of healthy food, activity and rest is that it helps us parents
remember that we should be good role models,” said Dr. Anderson.
“And that helps us stay healthy, too.”
To go or not to go?
staying Healthy—Caitlin Curtin, 4, gets her
ears examined by Christina Nitti Velasquez, CNP.
Caitlin said, “I have fun with her.”
S ometimes it’s obvious when children
should be kept home for the day, either
because their symptoms are severe or
because of school or daycare guidelines.
But what if it’s not that clear?
“It often comes down to parents knowing
their child and using their best judgment,”
said Christina Nitti Velasquez, CNP, in
Winona Clinic’s Family Practice Department.
“Sometimes we don’t give our children—or
ourselves—time to rest when sick. If your
child’s energy level is down and you think
they’ll have a hard time focusing in class, it’s
probably best to keep them home to rest and
get plenty of fluids.
“When we allow time for rest,” she
continued, “we recuperate faster and it helps
the immune system get the body back to
good health. And, if you suspect strep or a
highly contagious illness, it’s best to keep
them home.”
Nitti Velasquez recommends a clinic visit
if they have a severe sore throat, especially
if accompanied by a fever, aches and
upset stomach without other typical cold
symptoms. “Call about getting a strep test.
If it’s strep, we can prescribe medication to
make them comfortable and get them back to
good health.”
Healthy Connections • Fall 2008 9
Thinking about simplifying?
Assisted living could be your best move

‘‘
A
I checked out all my options and visited

other places. And the minute I opened the

door, I said ‘This is it.’

—Ruth Golish, Watkins Manor resident

fter raising her five daughters and four sons on

a farm near Altura and then living in an Altura
apartment for several years, Ruth Golish decided she’d
benefit from simplifying her daily tasks and enjoying the
amenities available in an assisted living community.

And now, after her first year of living at Watkins Manor

in Winona, Ruth said, “I wouldn’t have it any other way.
The food is great, and I don’t have to grocery shop, cook
or wash dishes any more—that’s nice!” Days full of activity—In addition to many social
activities, Ruth Golish enjoys knitting caps for her grandchildren
Of course leaving your home—whether it’s a house with in her comfortable Watkins Manor apartment.
a yard, an apartment or a condo and whether you’ve lived
there five years or 50—can be a difficult decision. homes… they all add to the wonderful atmosphere.”

“Difficult decisions are best made when you don’t have to
be in a hurry to make them,” noted Bunny Bennick, RN,
Winona Senior Services community liaison. “Moving to
a new home at any stage of life is a big step and can be
stressful. Taking the time to research your options helps
to ensure you’ll make a decision you’ll be happy with.”
Ruth agreed. “I checked out all my options and visited
other places,” she noted. “And the minute I opened the
door, I said ‘This is it.’”
Many factors can weigh into the decision about where
to call home. Ruth said that for her it came down to
one thing: “atmosphere.” She explained, “Everybody is
happy here; the residents and the staff. No one is gloomy.
There is a great mix of people… teachers, people who
have worked in banks, people who have worked in their
When asked if she’s made new friends since she moved
in, Ruth exclaimed, “Friends here? I love it! I consider
them all my friends and I have some really good ones.”
Among the other benefits of living at Watkins Manor,
Ruth counts the variety of activities available: Band
concerts by the lake, plays, a church potluck, shopping
trips and games including cards and Scrabble. “We’re
close to everything that’s available, and the activities
director [Nola Skappel] really knows what’s what—she’s
really good. Every week there are many activities to
choose from.”
Ruth notes that there’s also a gift shop with reasonable
prices, an errand service, vegetable and flower gardens for
those who enjoy gardening, and even exercise classes for
those who are interested.

10 Healthy Connections • Fall 2008

Ruth acknowledges that leaving home can be hard, but
she added, “This is just so much easier.” And as far as
advice she’d give to others considering such a move?
“I’d have them come and spend the day here—and for
goodness sake, taste the food!”
Watkins Manor:
A piece of history
P aul Watkins, nephew of JR Watkins, moved to
Winona in 1892 to help with the Watkins business.
Paul, then 28, was a successful businessman in Columbus,
Ohio, with his wife Florence and four children—
Roderick, Joseph, Florence and William.
When Paul and Florence moved to Winona they first lived
in a house to the west of Watkins Manor. Construction
began on their home on Wabasha Street, now part of
Watkins Manor, in 1924. Completed in 1927, the home
was admired for its beauty and detail. The Great Hall
houses one of the largest Aeolian organs with 6,000 pipes
ranging in size from smaller than a lead pencil to 20-inch
square wooden pipes.
Paul Watkins lived only four years after moving into the
family’s new home. He died Christmas Eve morning in
1931. Heirs of the Watkins’ family gave the home to the
Methodist Church who built a nursing home addition.
After Winona Health purchased the home in 1999, the
nursing home was totally renovated into assisted living
apartments—leaving the Watkins mansion in its original
historic state.
Tips for choosing an
assisted living community
“O
ur goal is to provide a beautiful, enjoyable
atmosphere for active seniors who value
their privacy and independence—and for those who
will benefit from help with daily activities or medical
issues,” noted Bunny Bennick, Winona Senior
Services Community liaison. “Similar to when people
are looking for any new home, different things appeal
to different people.”
When considering assisted living options for yourself
or a family member, Bennick recommends making a
list of the features most important to you and asking
lots of questions. For example:
• Do you like the location and the outward appearance
of the residence?
• Are the buildings and grounds attractive,
comfortable and appropriate for your needs?
• If you’re interested in assistance with medical
issues, what kind of training does the staff have and
during what hours are they available? (For example,
Watkins Manor has Licensed Practical Nurses on
site from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. with Registered Nurse
supervisors available 24/7.)
• What services and amenities are available? (Such
as help with personal daily activities, laundry,
cleaning, social and recreational activities,
transportation, access to common rooms)
• What is included in the monthly price? (Such as
meals, telephone, cable, individually controlled air
conditioning and heating, appliances, housekeeping,
scheduled transportation)
• Do you like the overall atmosphere and do the staff
and other residents seem happy and friendly?
• If possible, take your time and visit more than once.
To schedule a tour of Watkins Manor or to receive
free information about choosing an assisted living
community, contact Bunny Bennick at 507.494.7493.
Healthy Connections • Fall 2008 11
Foundation & Auxiliary News

MediAppS receives Foundation grant

I

‘‘
n March, the Winona Health Foundation awarded
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Winona a $12,000 The reality is that if it weren’t for this
Community Engagement Grant to help continue the
program, these individuals
agency’s Medication Application Service (MediAppS).
would not be getting the
Funding for the MediAppS program was unexpectedly
cut in the fall of 2007, creating the need for community medications they need.
support and donations. The Winona Health Foundation
responded to this need by providing assistance to Nancy Brown,
Catholic Charities. Executive Director of Development

“Funding from Winona Health came at a critical juncture

for MediAppS, and the Winona Health Foundation really
helped to keep the program going,” said Bob Tereba,
Executive Director of Catholic Charities.
The mission of MediAppS is to improve the health and
well-being of low income, uninsured individuals living
in the Winona area by helping them obtain needed
prescription medications that they cannot afford. These
medications are increasingly important in treating chronic
diseases. Not only can these medications lengthen life,
but they also promote a higher quality of life.
“The MediAppS program meets a critical need in our
community,” said Nancy Brown, Winona Health’s
executive director of development. “The reality is that if
it weren’t for this program, these individuals would not be
getting the medications they need.”
MediAppS began operating in Winona in the summer of
2003. The program has seen steady growth over the past
five years. Figures from October 2006 to September 2007
show a total of 534 prescriptions distributed among 57
uninsured persons.
MediAppS works with pharmaceutical companies who
offer patient assistance programs to make medications
available for free or at a reduced cost to individuals who
struggle financially. Sheila Collom, Catholic Charities’
MediAppS coordinator, thoroughly evaluates each
situation and determines which applications and claims
need to be filed to receive the necessary assistance. Once
an individual qualifies, MediAppS then works closely
with the person’s physicians and care facility to help them
secure the prescriptions they need.
The MediAppS program is available to any uninsured
person who requires prescription medications which
exceed their financial ability. Catholic Charities serves
all people, regardless of race, sex, age or faith tradition.
Anyone who sees MediAppS as a possible solution for
their prescription needs is encouraged to call Collom at
507.454.2270.
Applying for a Foundation grant
Each year the Winona Health Foundation awards up
to $50,000 through Community Engagement Grants.
Applications for the next grant cycle are being accepted
through December 31, 2008. Criteria and applications
for these grants are available at the Winona Health
Foundation office at Community Memorial Hospital or
can be downloaded online at: winonahealth.org/grants.

12 Healthy Connections • Fall 2008

 Watch for these festive
Auxiliary events!
Glady D. Miller Gift Shop
Holiday Happiness
November 5-8
B.A. Miller Auditorium
Community Memorial Hospital

The 3rd floor of Community

Memorial Hospital becomes a
holiday shopping wonderland

B.A. Miller Classic benefits many featuring gifts, holiday decorations,

jewelry, baked

through the Patient Care Fund goods and

much more.

T he Ben & Adith Miller Classic golf tournament, held August 11 at Cedar
Valley Golf Course, raised a record $170,000 for the Ben & Adith Miller
Patient Care Fund—$5,000 more than the event raised in 2007. More than 225
Proceeds
go towards
scholarships
golfers participated in this annual fundraising event. and medical
equipment. Mark your calendars
Since its inception in 1986, the Patient Care Fund has contributed more than
and invite your friends to go holiday
$2.7 million to more than 1,395 area families. “The Winona community is
shopping for a good cause.
very fortunate to have a fund like the Ben & Adith Miller Patient Care Fund,
and the Winona Health Foundation is very fortunate that Hugh and Vera Miller Fantasy of Trees
and RTP Company are committed to building the fund through the Ben & November 21-22
Adith Miller Classic,” said Nancy Brown, Winona Health’s executive director Watkins Manor
of development. “Their efforts and the efforts of RTP Company staff are 175 E. Wabasha St.
unequaled and critical to the success of this fundraising effort.”
Stroll through the Great Hall
The Ben & Adith Miller Patient Care Fund was established by Benjamin filled with beautifully decorated
Miller in honor of his wife. The Fund is used to help individuals who, holiday trees, which are available
because of life circumstances, need assistance covering their medical costs. for purchase
For more information on the Ben & Adith Miller Patient Care Fund, visit by sealed bid.
winonhealth.org/foundation or call 507.474.3328. The trees are
decorated
Looking for a rewarding volunteer opportunity? and donated

A re you interested in helping others? Would you enjoy a rewarding

volunteer opportunity? Become a Winona Health Auxiliary volunteer.
by various
businesses,
organizations
Auxiliary volunteers provide many valuable services throughout Winona
and individuals.
Health. Last year our more than 350 volunteers contributed more than 30,400
If you are interested in learning
hours of service. A variety of volunteer opportunities are available. For
more or donating a tree, contact the
more information or to apply to become a volunteer at Winona Health, visit
Volunteer Office at 507.474.3328.
winonahealth.org/volunteer or call 507.457.4394.

Healthy Connections • Fall 2008 13


Winona Health News & Notes
New healthcare providers—
Pediatrician Craig H. Anderson,
MD, joined the Pediatric/
Adolescent Medicine team at
Winona Clinic providing care for
children from birth through high
school. He has a special interest in
attention deficit disorder.
Lyle Hulsing, MA, LP, joined the
staff at Winona Health Psychiatric
& Counseling Services. Hulsing
is a licensed psychologist with
extensive experience in individual,
couples and family therapy.
David J. Lofgren, MD, a
board-certified Family Practice
physician, joined the Winona
Health medical staff and sees
patients in the Family Practice
Department at Winona and at
Rushford Clinics.
Kristi Lynn Schulte, PA, joined
the staff at Family Medicine
of Winona. Kristi received her
Master of Medical Science degree
in Physician Assistant Studies
from Midwestern University in
Glendale, Arizona.
Kevin R. Vanderveen, MD,
a board-certified emergency
medicine physician, has joined the
medical staff at Winona Health
and will work with the team in
the Emergency Department at
Community Memorial Hospital.
For information about healthcare providers at Winona
Health, visit winonahealth.org—click on Find a Provider.
14 Healthy Connections • Fall 2008
Community Memorial Hospital again has been named
on the nation’s Most Wired-Small and Rural Hospital
list according to Hospitals
& Health Networks
magazine. This is the
seventh consecutive year
Community Memorial
Hospital has been
recognized as a Most
Wired hospital. Earlier
this year, Community Memorial Hospital was featured
in a national PBS NewsHour story about healthcare
information technology. The news segment can be
viewed online at winonahealth.org/pbs.
Community Memorial Hospital has earned two
Minnesota Hospital Association (MHA) Patient Safety
Excellence Awards for its work on two initiatives:
preventing patients from falling and from developing
pressure ulcers during hospital stays. CMH implemented
the MHA SAFE from FALLS Roadmap to a
Comprehensive Falls Prevention Program and the SAFE
SKIN Roadmap to a Comprehensive Pressure Ulcer
Prevention Program. The roadmaps combine learning
from reported events in Minnesota and national best
practices. The MHA Patient Safety Excellence Award
is given to facilities that have achieved more than 90
percent of the actions recommended in the roadmaps.
Winona Clinic and Lewiston Clinic received the
Bridges to Excellence award for meeting the 2008
criteria for excellence in the optimal care of patients
with cardiovascular disease, resulting in improved health
outcomes and reduced patient healthcare costs.
Community Memorial Hospital has been named a top
performer in a Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services
(CMS)-Premier healthcare alliance project that rewards
hospitals for delivering higher quality care. Based on
third-year results from the Hospital Quality Incentive
Demonstration (HQID) project, Community Memorial
Hospital ranked in the top 10 percent for overall quality
in the care of Acute Myocardial Infarction (heart attack)
patients and in the top 20 percent in the clinical care of
Congestive Heart Failure patients.
Notes from the community—
We had excellent service at the Eye Care Center and in
the Family Practice Department... And what a wonderful
facility. It’s a warm and friendly atmosphere and all
personnel treat you in a professional manner and beyond.
The south view is gorgeous and the waiting lounge is very
nice and comfortable. I’m so glad Winona has such a
people-oriented facility for healthcare.
—Jane Fellows
Lewiston, MN
When I was treated in the Emergency Room, the doctors
and nurses couldn’t have been more efficient or caring. I
know I wouldn’t have gotten better care anywhere else.
—Shirley Pflughoeft
Winona, MN
On Thursday, July 17, we took our granddaughter, age 9,
to the Winona Health Emergency Room. She had a deep,
persistent cough and had spiked a temperature. From
the time we arrived until our departure, we received the
best of care. Nurse Andy [Seltz], Respiratory Therapist
Tony [Hibbard], X-Ray Tech Dave [Lawrence], and Dr.
[Carlos] Morales were sensitive, caring and professional
to our granddaughter and her grandparents. Each
one treated us kindly and explained all the tests and
treatments leading to her diagnosis. They represented the
best of Winona Health’s mission.
—Jim and Shannon Hanzel
Winona, MN
Troy Shelton, MD, Winona Center for Women’s Health…
Thank you for delivering my two children. You are a
wonderful doctor. You are so caring and kind. Thank you
for taking such good care of me and for being a five-star
doctor!
—Gretchen Pronschinske
Mondovi, WI
From the comment box—
My experience was excellent. I can’t think of any way they
could have done a better job. Thank you for the pleasant
professional experience.
—Surgery patient
I was so impressed with the care, concern and services.
—Surgery patient
What a pleasant experience! I felt comfortable and
relaxed [during mammogram] and the staff answered my
questions in detail. I have been coming here for many
years and would not hesitate to recommend Winona
Health fully.
—Women’s Imaging Department patient
I found that a mammo can be a very pleasant experience.
My tech was great and the coffee and treats were much
appreciated since my appointment was at 7:30 a.m. I’m
also passing this information along to my friend who has
never had a mammogram.
—Women’s Imaging Department patient
Reminder:
October is Breast Cancer Awareness
Month. Are you due for a mammogram?
Give yourself the gift of peace of mind—
or of early detection. Call to schedule an
appointment in our Women’s Imaging
Department: 507.457.4320.
Healthy Connections • Fall 2008 15
Events, classes & support Groups
For a complete calendar of events by
date and for more information about our
services and programs, please visit our
website: winonahealth.org. We welcome
your questions and comments.
Alzheimer’s and Related Dementia
Support and Education
2nd Wednesday of the month, 6–7 p.m.
CMH, Parkview Conference Room
No registration required: 507.457.4560
Basic Life Support (BLS/CPR) for
Healthcare Providers
November 11, 4–9 p.m.
CMH, 3rd Floor B.A. Miller Auditorium
Childbirth Education Classes
Six week program:
Wednesdays, September 3–October 8
Thursdays, October 2–November 6
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Weekend program:
Saturday, September 20, 8 a.m.–3 p.m.
CMH, 3rd Floor, B.A. Miller Auditorium
Registration required: 507.457.4338
Community Health Talk
The Eyes Have It—Laurel Quinn, MD
Thursday, September 18, 5:30–6:30 p.m.
CMH, 3rd Floor, B.A. Miller Auditorium
FREE! Registration encouraged.
Visit winonahealth.org/health_talks or
call 507.457.4374 for more information
Depression Screenings
Thursday, October 9, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Free. No appointment necessary.
Psychiatric & Counseling Services
825 Mankato Avenue, Winona
Call for more information: 507.454.2606
PO Box 5600 • 855 Mankato Ave. • Winona, MN 55987 • winonahealth.org
Diabetes Expo sponsored by
Winona Health and area Lions Clubs
WSU’s Kryzsko Commons
Saturday, November 8
8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. FREE!
Call for more information: 507.457.4570
Diabetes Prevention Class
Four session class
Tuesdays: October 7, 14, 21, 28
6:30-7:30 p.m. CMH
$40 for individual, $60 for couples
Registration required: 507.457.7700
Frame Show—Eye Care Center
Thursday, November 20, 6 a.m.–9 p.m.
859 Mankato Ave., 3rd Floor Clinic
507.474.4760
Healthcare CPR Recertification
September 18, 7:30-10:30 a.m.
September 23, 5-8 p.m.
October 16, 7:30-10:30 a.m.
October 22, 5-8 p.m.
November 13, 5-8 p.m.
November 20, 7:30-10:30 a.m.
December 15, 5-8 p.m.
CMH, B.A. Miller Auditorium
Registration required: 507.457.4491
Cost for class: $30
Healthcare Directives
Informational sessions:
September 15, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
November 17, 9:30–10:30 a.m.
Working sessions:
September 22, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
November 24, 9:30–10:30 a.m.
CMH, Parkview Conference Room
Call for more information: 507.474.3328
CMH = Community Memorial Hospital • 855 Mankato Ave. • Winona, MN
Healthy Kids Club (see p. 3)
Second Annual Kick-Off Event
Winona Middle School
Saturday, September 27, 9 a.m.–Noon
Call for more information: 507.457.4161
or visit winonahealth.org/HKC
Infants Remembered In Silence (IRIS)
3rd Tuesday of every month
6:30–8 p.m.
Watkins Great Hall, 175 E. Wabasha St.
Call for more information: 507.474.3042
MOM Support Group
(Mother’s Own Milk)
Wednesdays, 1:30–3:30 p.m.
Women’s Health Library
3rd floor Winona Clinic
Call for more information: 507.453.3700
Prostate Cancer Screening
Thursday, October 2
7:30–9:30 a.m. and 4:30–6:30 p.m.
Winona Health, 859 Mankato Ave.
Appointments encouraged: 507.457.4481
Cost for screening: $10
Prostate Cancer Support Group
1st Monday of the month, 7-8 p.m.
CMH, Parkview Conference Room
Call for more information: 507.457.4491
Winona Health Foundation &
Auxiliary Events
For information about Foundation
and Auxiliary events, see p. 13 or call
507.474.3328.
Nonprofit Org
U.S. Postage
PAID
Winona, MN
Permit No. 72