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Certifi ed Stroke Ready

Are You At Risk for Prediabetes?

Here’s What Our Patients Are Saying

Learn More About RMG Walk-In Clinic

Let’s Do the Hustle Again!

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HealthNotesSPRING 2015

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Dear Friends,

As you have heard me state many times before, we at Rochelle Community Hospital strive to be your community hospital. Our efforts to achieve this are focused in many different directions. First, we know we must provide high-quality care along with outstanding customer service to each and every patient who visits Rochelle Community Hospital; second, we realize we must offer the services that are necessary and important to you; third, it is critical we have the most current equipment to conduct the tests and provide the services you need; lastly, we must make sure we have the physicians on staff and available when you need them, and we must also have highly trained employees offering the level of care you have come to expect at Rochelle Community Hospital.

As you know, we’ve been busy preparing the area directly south of the hospital for construction of a new Medical Office Building. We will move forward with groundbreaking and construction in the coming weeks. We are excited about the possibilities and opportunities this new space can offer to better meet your needs and offer more services.

Also, as we move forward in this new environment and strive to meet the requirements of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, we have updated our Strategic Plan to develop a road map for our future. As a small rural community hospital, we know we can’t compete with, nor do everything the large hospital systems do; however, we have identified a plan for what we feel is important to you. At Rochelle Community Hospital, our mission is: “To improve the health of our community by providing high quality care with competence, excellence and compassion.” We want you to hold us responsible for meeting this mission, and if you ever feel we don’t, we want you to let us know.

Finally, we think of all whose lives were touched by the recent tornado, and our hearts go out to all who were affected. But we are also thankful that the majority of injuries we saw were minor ones. We continue to offer our assistance where we can… and consider it a privilege to remain standing as your community hospital.

Best in health,

Mark J. Batty

Chief Executive Officer

Rochelle Community Hospital

Major News

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Mark J. Batty Chief Executive Officer

CERTIFIED STROKE READY!Rochelle Community Hospital has received designation as an Emergent Stroke Ready Hospital (ESRH) from the Illinois Department of Public Health.

“This designation ensures that all stroke patients, regardless of where they live, have access to rapid care within the narrow treatment window,” said Mark Batty, RCH Chief Executive Officer. “Prior to receiving this designation, patients would have had to travel a long distance to receive assistance, losing precious time. Stroke designation for Rochelle Community Hospital now allows local access to the care needed, beginning the moment they enter the hospital to the time the lifesaving drug is administered within the recommended 60-minute treatment window. ”

To gain the ESRH designation, Rochelle Community Hospital had to meet specific criteria. Each ESRH has a telehealth connection with a neurologist at one or more larger Primary Stroke Hospitals within the state. Rural areas do not staff a neurologist due to a shortage of this specialty, but the telehealth connection allows the specialist to evaluate the patient and make treatment recommendations. For additional information, check our website at RochelleHospital.com/Emergency.

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Other News

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Three DOT Certifi ed Medical ExaminersLucinda Zoeller, APN, CNP; Marilyn Balch, APN, CNP; and Jason Popp, M.D.

RCH clinics have three Certifi ed Medical Examiners (CMEs) who can complete Department of Transportation (DOT) physicals. Due to new regulations, examiners must be certifi ed to perform DOT physicals.

That’s why Lucinda Zoeller, APN, CNP – Nurse Practitioner at On-the-Go Healthcare Center; Marilyn Balch, APN, CNP – Family Nurse Practitioner at the Rochelle Medical Group and On-the-Go Healthcare Center; and Jason Popp, M.D. – Family Practice Physician at Family HealthCare Center, were trained, tested and certifi ed to perform medical examinations for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers.

These CMEs fully understand the medical standards in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations, related guidance and their relation to the medical demands of operating a commercial motor vehicle. All three will maintain ongoing competency through training, testing and recertifi cation.

Meet Lucy Pickerill, M-O-I Occupational Therapist! Rehabilitation Services has added Occupational Therapy with the addition of Lucy Pickerill, an occupational therapist with Midwest Orthopaedic Institute (M-O-I). Lucy treats patients at RCH on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Her scope of practice includes all upper extremity diagnoses. For an appointment, call Rehabilitation Services at 815-561-1140.

For a DOT physical, schedule your appointment with one of the CMEs at their clinic location. Check out RochelleHospital.com/Clinics for more information.

Lucinda Zoeller, APN, CNP

815-561-1283

Marilyn Balch, APN, CNP

815-561-8335 or 815-561-1283

Jason Popp, M.D.815-562-3784

LifestyleARE YOU AT RISK FOR PREDIABETES?

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Did you know 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. has prediabetes? As you might expect, this condition often precedes a diagnosis of diabetes – individuals have high blood glucose or hemoglobin A1C levels, but they are not yet high enough to be classified as diabetes. Those with prediabetes have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Nevertheless, not everyone with prediabetes will progress to diabetes. Lifestyle changes can make the difference.

Help Prevent Diabetes – Participate in a FREE ClassThe Diabetes Prevention Program, a large study of people at high risk for diabetes, showed that lifestyle intervention resulting in weight loss and increased physical activity can help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes… and may even return blood glucose levels to the normal range. That’s why Rochelle Community Hospital is partnering with the University of Illinois Extension office. Starting Wednesday, August 12, we will introduce a new six-week program for people with prediabetes.

Participants will be encouraged to make real lifestyle changes, such as eating healthier and incorporating physical activity into their daily lives, as well as improving problem-solving and coping skills. Meetings take place with a Registered Nurse and Dietitians in a small group setting with other people making lifestyle changes. Based on the National Diabetes Prevention Program developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, this proven program will meet every other week with sessions focused on teaching those with prediabetes to make achievable, realistic lifestyle changes and reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 58 percent.

The FREE class will meet every other week from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the RCH Auxiliary Room. A physician’s order is required to participate.

For more information, call our Outpatient Services Manager at 815-562-2181, ext. 2580.

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LifestyleHealthy Recipes

Easy Avocado Cabbage Carrot Slaw2 ripe avocados, halved, seeded, diced, and divided¼ cup white vinegar2 tablespoons water1 tablespoon sugar½ teaspoon ground cumin4 cups sliced green cabbage2 cups grated carrots½ cup sliced red onion¼ cup chopped cilantroSalt and pepper to taste

1. Place one avocado, vinegar, water, sugar and cumin in a blender.

2. With the blender on puree setting, blend until smooth.3. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, carrots, onion,

cilantro and remaining avocado.4. Pour dressing over cabbage mixture, toss gently and

season to taste with salt and pepper.Yield: 6 servings Calories: 140, Sat. fat: 1.5 g, Carbs: 15 g

Asparagus with Soy Asian Vinaigrette2 tablespoons soy sauce1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil4 teaspoons Dijon mustard1 tablespoon white vinegar1 garlic clove, minced2 pounds asparagus, ends snapped and discarded3 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted2 tablespoon chives, minced

1. In a small bowl, whisk together first five ingredients.2. Steam asparagus until tender, about 7 minutes.3. Toss with vinaigrette. Sprinkle sesame seeds and chives

on top.Yield: 6 servings Calories: 76, Sat. fat: 1 g, Carbs: 7 g

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Proof

Ambulatory Surgery“Very good experience.”

“Very clean and homey hospital. I’ve never been to a hospital with staff as informative and as friendly as the staff at Rochelle Community Hospital. They were so nice!! Nurses and staff were very kind to my daughter-in-law and kept her informed. No reason to complain, everything was wonderful.”

“Everyone was great!! We had a wonderful experience.”

“Sandra and Molly were excellent – professional – considerate – informative.”

“All my questions were answered during the phone registration. It was also very nice to be escorted to the surgery center from the registration desk. I was glad to receive specifi c instructions and information to take home. I appreciated the privacy a lot especially after the procedure. The experience was very good compared to other places; I have had this procedure done in the past.”

Emergency “Ultrasound – very good.”

Inpatient “Emergency Room nurse brought breakfast in to sister and her husband – was such a nice gesture. My stay was very good. Everyone was very friendly and helpful during my stay. From my admission to my discharge, my time was pleasant. I think this hospital has the best staff around!”

“Everyone made sure you got what you wanted at meals and snacks. All the nurses and CNAs went above to make my stay great! Everyone was very friendly and made sure I had everything I needed. Staff very friendly to my family. “

“No pain. No complaints. Very excellent staff. No bad experience.”

“Very satisfi ed. Good food.”

“I was in severe pain. The staff immediately took me to triage – registered me afterwards, excellent!! Couldn’t have been better. I am thankful you are right here in Rochelle. If I would have had to go to DeKalb or Rockford for the treatment of my condition, it would have only worsened because of the time delay. Instead, I was able to go 10 blocks, get the immediate care that was needed by caring people and begin the recovery process. Thank you.”

Medical Practice Surveys “Just routine check-up. No problems.” (Dr. Alanis)

“Did not have a bad experience. Good, can’t complain at all. I like my doctor very much. She has aided me whenever I see her.” (Dr. Alanis)

“No delays.” (Dr. Popp)

“Kathy is very good. Cassie A+” (Dr. Popp)

Outpatient “Good experience. Everyone was friendly and helpful. Jody and Connie explained everything they were doing and answered all of our questions. Excellent job. We had a very good experience at Rochelle Community Hospital.” (Respiratory Therapy)

Here’s What Our Patients Are Saying…Press Ganey Survey Comments (March 2014)

“Recently I was treated as an outpatient at RCH. I was treated very professionally, with care and concern as the staff helped me to get back on my feet. Our hospital is one of Rochelle’s biggest assets.” - Kit Hakanson, Rochelle (pictured with Janet Stewart, Rochelle

Community Hospital, on the left)

Proof“I was very worried because I had breast cancer 12 years ago. They were very nice. I was very scared. I stayed here when I had knee surgery in 2014.” (Radiology-Mammography)

“Heather Hensley has the best bedside manner. Explained everything in detail and made my experience less stressful. I will continue to request her in the future. Five star experience.” (Radiology-Mammography)

“Always excellent. Very professional/fast/friendly. They are the best!” (Laboratory)

“Lab tech was very nice and competent when drawing blood. She made sure paper tape was okay to use.” (Laboratory)

“I register in the Infusion clinic which is very convenient and quick. I have problems walking so this setup works wonders for me. Pauline and Colette are superb at their jobs, Denise and Esther are wonderful too. Jen, their supervisor, does a terrifi c job and has helped me personally a few times. These ladies will always have a special place in my heart.” (Infusion Services)

“Your personnel were very quick to register me, and my blood draw at the lab was done in 10 minutes.” (Laboratory)

“Always friendly and helpful – good.” (Multi-Specialty Center-Ultrasound)

“Heather is very good at her job.” (Radiology -Mammography)

“Very good. Your therapy department is friendly and very good at what they do.” (Rehabilitation Services)

“No waiting, available right away. It was quiet and everyone was very hospitable. No concerns or worries, the tech seemed to know what she was doing. No complaints of soreness, everything was very good.”(Laboratory)

“Everything went real good.” (Multi-Specialty Center)

“I was there for an appointment with Dr. Jain. Had x-ray during appointment. Staff took me where I needed to be and back again.” (Rehabilitation Services)

“They were great with my 5 year old!” (Radiology)

“They were very helpful and very professional. Had a very good experience, answered any questions I had.” (Radiology)

“I found nothing to complain about.” (Radiology)

“Dr. Wade was very professional and pleasant.” (Urgent Care)

Stop by the RCH Marketing Department to share your experience and receive your free PROOF t-shirt.8

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Learn More About the RMG Walk-In Clinic

The RMG Walk-In Clinic recently opened, and many of you have had some questions… we thought we’d take this opportunity to address them.

Q: Why is there a wait?A: Since we are a walk-in clinic, we do not take appointments. Patients are seen on a fi rst-come, fi rst-served basis. The wait time at RMG Walk-In Clinic is often shorter than the emergency room and there is often no wait at all. However, we are limited in the number of patients we can see at a time, which may result in a wait time. Unfortunately, wait times are diffi cult to predict since they are based on the number of people seeking care, as well as the severity of their condition. They vary by time of day, day of the week and season. During cold and fl u season, our wait times are often much longer than in the summer months.

Q: Are you doing anything to improve the wait time?A: Yes. Our recent improvements are mainly focused on effi ciency and decreasing our wait time. We do not like patients leaving because of high volume and are working hard to make improvements. As always, we value your time and want to provide high-quality convenient care when you need it.

Q: I went to the RMG Walk-In Clinic and was turned away before you closed. Why?A: We currently accept our last patient 15-30 minutes prior to close. This allows our staff and providers time to complete the exam and other necessary tasks prior to the end of their shift. When patient volume is high, we may stop accepting new patients even earlier to ensure we can attend to all patients who have checked in prior to our closing time. Hours: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Q: When do you close for lunch?A: Our providers and staff take an hour lunch break in the afternoon around 1:30-2:30 p.m., Monday-Friday. Specifi c times may vary, but we will always be open from noon until 1 p.m. to assure we are available during most business lunch hours.

Community Education

Community EducationACCESS YOUR RECORDS ONLINE!

It can be diffi cult to stay on top of your family’s healthcare with today’s busy schedules – even though it’s the most important thing of all. Now, you can easily access your health summary via myRCHhealth – our online patient portal – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!

Using your own secure password, you can log into the online Patient Portal from the comfort and privacy of your home, offi ce or mobile device. You’ll be able to see most lab and radiology reports as well as an overview of your medical record. Go to our website and click on “Hospital Patient Portal” to sign up and learn more about myRCHhealth today!

Your mouse could make you money!

Every time you access your RCH Patient Portal online, you have a chance to win a gas card or an iPad® mini! Check the website for more information: RochelleHospital.com/PatientPortal.

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LET’S DO THE HUSTLE AGAIN – JUNE 6TH!It’s that time again! We’re ready to go with the 9th Annual “Hospital Hustle” 5K Walk/Run on Saturday, June 6, 2015 at 8:00 a.m. Hosted by the Rochelle Community Hospital Foundation, this fun family event will be held at Rochelle Township High School, 1401 Flagg Road, starting at the high school and following the bike path to Atwood Park and back for a total of 3.1 miles. The race is not only a great fundraiser for the RCH Foundation but also a wonderful community builder. Our goals include developing good community relationships while promoting healthy lifestyle choices and encouraging participation in an active, challenging event.

Awards will be presented to various age divisions ranging from youth to age 70+ for both males and females, and a plaque will be awarded to the fastest team.

NEW This Year!Offered by Franklin Finish, Chip Timing will be offered, with chips located on the tear-off tags of the bib you receive. This means more accurate results and placing for a better race experience! The Lowdown on the HustleFees are $25 up to May 29 and $30 starting May 30 until race day. New this year – online registration is available through May 29, 2015. For more race details and to register, log onto the hospital’s website at RochelleHospital.com/AnnualHustle. Registration forms can be printed from the website or picked up at the hospital as well.

T-shirts will be given to the fi rst 300 pre-registered participants on a fi rst-come, fi rst-served basis. Area businesses are invited to partner with the Foundation for this event. Please contact Michelle LaPage, RCH Foundation/Community Events Coordinator, at 815-561-3110 or email mlapage@rcha.net to learn about the variety of sponsorship opportunities available.

Foundation News

Your mouse could make you money!

900 N. Second St.Rochelle, IL 61068

www.rochellehospital.com

NONPROFIT ORGU.S. POSTAGE PAID

PERMIT NO. 154ROCHELLE, IL

Financial Support Now Available to Area Cancer Patients

A new scholarship program is now providing grants to assist

qualifi ed cancer patients in the Ogle County area. The “All About

Me” Scholarship Program was recently introduced by the Rochelle

Community Hospital Foundation and is offered to Rochelle Community

Hospital patients who need fi nancial support on their road to recovery.

“We’re really excited about this new scholarship program and its potential to help people in our community as

they go through their journey with cancer,” Michelle LaPage, RCH Foundation/Community Events Coordinator,

said. “The support we have received from our community partners to date has been outstanding.”

Created to help improve patients’ quality of life with valuable local resources and fi nancial support, the “All About

Me” Scholarship Program offers those in need with a one-time grant of up to $250 per year. Assistance and/

or gift cards for transportation, prescriptions, prosthetics, wigs, scarves, food or meals is provided through the

program.

To learn more or download a scholarship application, visit RochelleHospital.com/AllAboutMe today!