A Vote for Women's Health this holiday season

The Festival of Trees at Westfield Southlake Mall is in full swing, and among the entries is Franciscan Alliance’s “Spirit of Women” tree. The public is encouraged to vote for their favorite tree, and the winning nonprofit group will receive a $1,500 donation to the cause of its choice.

If awarded a donation from Westfield Mall, the Franciscan Alliance Foundation will divide the funds equally between St. Clare Health Clinic in Crown Point and Catherine McAuley Clinic in Hammond. Both of these clinics are mission programs of Franciscan Alliance and operate as free primary care clinics to the working uninsured and underinsured throughout Lake County. The money will be used to provide free digital mammograms to women who are deemed financially unable and ineligible for federally funded breast programs, as well as those who are uninsured.

The trees are located in the center court area on the main level. To vote, shoppers can take the escalator up to the Westfield Concierge Desk, located on the upper level by Macy’s, where they’ll find a voting box and ballots. Only one vote per person will be accepted, and the deadline to vote for the tree is Dec. 24.

Staying Connected During the Holiday Season and Beyond

Submitted by Jamie Monday, Clinical Therapist with the Employee Assistance Program of Franciscan Alliance - Northern Indiana Region

You walk into a restaurant and you notice a couple seated near you. And you observe that they really are not enjoying this opportunity to be together, because one is patiently waiting for the other to stop talking or texting on the cell phone.

It’s not that technology is inherently bad. It actually helps us connect with people in many positive ways. However, our electronic communication has become an easy way to escape genuine communication. Our ability to connect easily through the web, social media and through cell phones is causing many of us to forget the importance of conversation in developing strong relationships.

Through our relationships we experience laughter, companionship, teamwork, friendship, stress-relief, support, a sense of belonging, love, the list goes on and on. Investing in our relationships is crucial.

During this holiday season when you are spending time with family and friends practice working on interactions with each other that promote face-to-face communication. Boundaries like the ones below help establish a strong family value: When you’re with someone, that relationship is your priority!

Setting Boundaries for Mobile Technology:

1. No Devices at the dinner table - Dinner time should be reserved for conversation.
2. No phones at restaurants - We all need to find time daily to disconnect from all the information and reconnect with our families. Maybe even leave your cell phones in the car.
3. No texting someone when you’re both at home or in the same room - Don’t laugh it happens all the time!
4. No texting or talking about really important issues over the phone - This should be done face-to-face unless it is something that can’t wait. You can’t fully understand what that person really means unless you hear the tone of voice or see their face and a lot can be taken the wrong way.
5. Regulate use of devices on vacations - Set limits that force the family to interact with each other.

Outpatient Surgery latest to be named Most Valuable Team

Congratulations to Outpatient Surgery for winning Franciscan Physicians Hospital’s Most Valuable Team award!

Outpatient Surgery is a great example of what MVT is all about. The staff in this department have gone above and beyond in their everyday jobs to make FPH a better place. Patients and other staff members alike have been positively affected by the Outpatient Surgery team. From the Friends in Need luncheon to the surprise Founders Circle donation, the employees in Outpatient Surgery have truly pulled together to Make a Difference.

Thank you, Outpatient Surgery. Way to go!

Blessing program celebrates merger of Medical Specialists, Franciscan Alliance

Check out video highlights from the blessing and commitment ceremony for Franciscan Medical Specialists in Munster, Indiana.



Medical Specialists, a longtime Northwest Indiana health care organization of 69 health care providers who offer a wide variety of primary and specialty care services, has joined Franciscan Alliance, which has four hospitals in Lake County and nine others in Indiana and in south suburban Chicago, as well as numerous offsite specialty centers and clinics.

Wishing you and your family a Holy Advent and a Blessed Christmas

“You have made us for Yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You.”
(St. Augustine)

Dear Friends,

In every cell of our body and in the DNA of our souls there is always an ache and longing for something yet to come. We long for becoming a better person, having better health and being in better shape, a better home, a better community, better financial performance. Entertainment industry thrives on our longing for becoming leaner or more beautiful, winning The Voice, X-Factor, American Idol, Next Top Model or the Super Bowl…  We ache in a way that often leaves us dissatisfied and restless inside.

The Season of Advent, which begins this coming Sunday, celebrates that human longing and restlessness. It asks us not to deny them, but to enter them, deepen them, widen them. Longing shapes our souls in many ways. Longing carves out a trough, creates a space within us where something new can be born, where God can be born.

And Christmas is God’s answer to that human longing and restlessness. But God’s answer didn’t exactly meet our expectation. What our world expects is a superstar, someone charismatic, someone rich and famous, a superhero, someone with extraordinary talent, sharpness and muscle-power to out-gun everyone. God’s answer to that: a baby lying helpless in the straw – Jesus, our Savior! Like a baby, God does not out-muscle anyone, outgun anyone, threaten anyone, or overpower anyone. Instead, the power of God revealed in Christmas is the power of a baby, nothing more, nothing less – innocence, gentleness, helplessness, a vulnerability that softens hearts, invites us in, has us hush our noise, teaches us patience, brings us love, joy and peace, and calls forth what’s best in us. Such is the way of God in re-birthing a New You, re-creating a Precious You in His image and likeness. This is the message of Christmas.

As we continue Baby Jesus’ healing ministry in our Franciscan tradition, may we serve each other and our patients with a renewed vigor of gentleness, love, compassion, patience, peace and joy. Wishing you and your family a Holy Advent and a Blessed Christmas.

MISSION AND SPIRITUAL CARE TEAM

'Be Dazzling' appeals to Spirit of Women

Marci Crozier, regional director of marketing and sales for Franciscan Omni Health and Fitness - Schererville, served as mistress of ceremonies for “Be Dazzling,” a free offering of Franciscan Alliance’s Spirit of Women program, a community health education effort, which took place Nov. 8 at Sand Creek Country Club in Chesterton. Nearly 300 people were on hand.

Attendees took advantage of health screenings for varicose veins, bone density, blood pressure and blood glucose. Health information also was offered at a Dessert with the Docs segment. A photo booth and professional bra-fitting were available, along with shopping, gifts and refreshments.

Hurricane Sandy Receives NWI Donations

Franciscan Physicians Hospital employees Mary Beth Kosiba, Kari Wall and Robin Rossner hit the road Monday, November 19 in a Uhaul/trailer combination filled with donations and equally important, hope, for victims of Hurricane Sandy.

Hospital employees head out with the Uhaul/trailer
combination, both filled with donations.

A multi-facility collection of needed items brought in massive donations from canned goods and pet food to diapers and hand sanitizer. At the donations close, rental of a larger trailer was required to transfer the seemingly endless items.

"Over eight million people were affected by Sandy," says Kosiba, manager of the hospitals Sleep Disorders Center. "The basics we take for granted, they now need to survive. We can't thank the public and employees enough for their generosity."

Traveling together, Kosiba, Wall and Rossner headed to St. Vincent DePaul, a non-profit assistance organization located in Cincinnati, Ohio, where items were transferred and taken to victims of Hurricane Sandy.

Donations filled the Uhaul from floor
to ceiling.

Natalie Reisen, community outreach specialist with Franciscan Physicians Hospital, organized the collection. 

"In the aftermath we saw lots of people pulling together," says Reisen. "The worst is over; now we can help those affected get their lives back on track."

Rossner, who works at the Sleep Disorders Center, was moved by the trip. 

"The trip was a wake up call for me. Next time I want to complain or feel that I need something, I can think about those people who are sleeping on cardboard boxes, barely able to provide for themselves without the essential resources to do so."

Donations weren't the only provision given by by hospital employees and donors. Lori Postma, PACU charge nurse at Franciscan Physicians Hospital, attended first-hand to help those in need.

Postma, who departed November 9th, assisted victims in conjunction with the Indiana Department of Homeland Security.

"I appreciate all that the hospital does to help it's employees flourish professionally and personally," states Postma. "It has always been important for me to earn my right to breathe and I thank the hospital for allowing me to follow my own mission."

November is National Healthy Skin Month!

We all have it. We all wash it. We all take efforts to feel our best inside of it. What is it? This time it's not your car, it's your skin! And November is National Healthy Skin month, a recognition that provides us the opportunity to give advice on maintaining your precious human hide.

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), along with Franciscan Alliance dermatologists, continually focus on helping people keep their skin healthy. While a wide variety of methods exist, lets concentrate on the simple ones.

Generally speaking, the first thing a person notices is your face. It's important to take care of your face whose skin is often very sensitive. The AAD offers the following advice for the best way to wash your face:

1) Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser that does not contain alcohol.

2) Wet your face with lukewarm water and use your fingertips to apply cleanser. Other items (washcloth, sponge) can irritate your skin.

3) Resist temptation to scrub your skin. Scrubbing can lead to irritation.

4) Rinse your skin with lukewarm water and pat dry with a soft towel.
5)Apply moisturizer if your skin is dry or itchy.

6) Limit washing to twice a day and after sweating. Perspiration irritates the skin, so it's important to wash it off as soon as possible.

The face may often be the focus of our skin care, but with winter upon us it's important to take care of our body in its entirety. Here's some winter skin care tips for you to keep in mind as the snow begins to fall!

-Seek a specialist. A dermatologist or esthetician can analyze your skin type, review your skin care regimen and give you sound advice on the skin care products you use.

-Moisturize more! Use an oil-based moisturizer rather than a water-based one because it will provide a protective layer over your skin that helps retain moisture.

-Utilize a humidifier. Furnaces and space heaters blow hot, dry air through your home. Humidifiers get more moisture into the air, which helps prevent your skin from drying out.

-Keep it cool in the bath! Extremely hot baths, while pleasant in their own time, break down lipid barriers in the skin which can lead to moisture loss.

Your local dermatologists are extensively trained on skin care, skin disease and skin care products. By utilizing their knowledge and expertise you can keep the quality of your skin at it's best.

For more information on skin care tips during this month of skin health, visit www.aad.org or visit the dermatologists at Franciscan Hammond Clinic! Make an appointment today by calling (219)836-5800!

Franciscan Omni Health’s Crozier receives Indiana Chamber Volunteer of the Year honor

Marci Crozier’s dedication to sharing her inspiring wellness journey and her work on behalf of the Wellness Council of Indiana earned her an Indiana Chamber of Commerce 2012 Volunteer of the Year award during a recent ceremony at the Indiana Convention Center.

Wellness is more than a way of life for Crozier – it’s a passion. When the Wellness Council of Indiana was established in the 1980s, she was an early contributor and volunteer. She’s spent nearly 30 years working at Franciscan Omni Health & Fitness - Schererville, currently as regional director of marketing and sales. After chronicling her nearly 80-pound weight loss on the popular NBC television show, The Biggest Loser, she began empowering others with the story of her path to physical and spiritual health at speaking engagements and to Wellness Council audiences.

“There’s a word many people to use to describe Marci – compassionate. Combined with her wellness knowledge and experience, the sky is truly the limit when it comes to making a positive impact on people’s lives,” says Indiana Chamber President Kevin Brinegar. “Her dedication to helping others improve their well-being is simply inspiring.”

Crozier said the recognition extends beyond her, to Franciscan Alliance.

“It was my privilege to accept this recognition on behalf of the Sisters of Saint Francis, each and every one of them, and our Franciscan Alliance organization. When you are surrounded by such compassionate people, it just seems natural to want to give back. I am grateful for the opportunities that my position at Franciscan Omni Health & Fitness has given me to encourage and motivate Northwest Indiana and the state of Indiana citizens to want to live a healthier lifestyle.”

Endless Improvement is Our Committment

Franciscan Physicians Hospital and Franciscan Hammond Clinic aren't slowing down as the year comes to an end. Rather, they're charging forward with the implementation of myriad improvements and programs to solidify the safest, most convenient care for our communities.

How are they doing this? It's safe to say there's very complex processes underway throughout these organizations. Lets start by looking at Franciscan Physicians Hospital and the efforts taking place in the hospital.

Franciscan Physicians Hospital has recently gone through a strategic hiring process to build a comprehensive, highly-skilled nursing structure. The structure was designed to ensure that all work taking place is being done under an umbrella of care and accountability. This structure includes a variety of nursing leaders, including:

• Five House Supervisors
• Nurse Manager
• Nurse Educator
• Director of Patient Services
• VP of Operations and Chief Nursing Officer

 Working under the direction of the president and vice president these 8 individuals provide an all encompassing approach to patient care through safety, satisfaction and overall hospital experience. But that's not all!

Hospital risk management and quality personnel recently finished the development and implementation of a discharge packet which takes into account the specifics of each patient's needs. The packet, which is broken down into easily navigable sections, is populated with the patient's specifics including diet, exercise, medicine and followup appointments.

Through the discharge packets patients are able to reference any information they need in one place, rather than searching through a variety of items. Once discharged the patient can relax knowing their care is still of the utmost importance to our physicians and staff.

Yet another advancement being made in the hospital is an implementation of the EPIC computer system, a process that will take several more months but will yield unprecedented results through streamlined workflow, simpler scheduling, enhanced customer service communications and more. Through EPIC we're continuing to bring convenience to you!

Franciscan Hammond Clinic is also improving the patient experience through the development of a Direct Admit Program. The program, formed in conjunction with Franciscan Physicians Hospital, allows patients to call the clinic at any time outside normal business hours and speak to a night staff nurse. The nurse will note the patient's symptoms and call a physician who can determine if the issue warrants a direct admit at the hospital. Through the program patients avoid emergency room waits and charges, ultimately improving their experience while getting them the care they need quickly.

Together hospital and clinic staff put forward creativity and dedication to the improvement of your care. Next time you need care, it's great to know that Franciscan Physicians Hospital and Franciscan Hammond Clinic are right here in Munster, ready to serve you and your loved ones!

Pastoral Care Week: October 21-27

Dear Friends,

If the season is a hint of the work of chaplains and pastoral caregivers, it provides a perfect metaphor. When the mercury of our lives drop, we often find ourselves walking through cold and dark valleys of visible and invisible pain and suffering. Faith can then be tested and many questions arise about the meaning of our lives, the meaning of suffering and the meaning of death. We struggle. Yet, the season also teaches us, when the mercury drops, there is a grand transformation and glorious display of beautiful autumn leaves, as if to tell us that the autumn days of our lives are not without their own gifts….as if to tell us that there’s beauty in the dark valley of life. We too will emerge transformed if we are willing to persevere in our struggles.

The work of chaplains is just that. Chaplains - through the eyes of faith - help individuals in their struggles to move toward transformation. Chaplains empower individuals to draw on their own faith traditions and teachings for comfort and guidance as they walk through the dark valley. Chaplains believe that “FAITH OPENS OUR EYES TO HUMAN LIFE IN ALL ITS GRANDEUR AND BEAUTY,” even when we are facing the dead winter days. Following the Divine Master Himself, Chaplains empower individuals to see hope in a confusion, joy in sadness, light in darkness, faith in doubt, and life in death.

October 21-27 is Pastoral Care Week. Please join me in honoring and celebrating the dedication of our Franciscan Alliance Chaplains and Spiritual Care Staff. To quote the late Sister Corita Last, OSF, “Spiritual Care is the heart of who we are.”

In prayerful appreciation,

Mission & Spiritual Care Services

Video: Living Miracles - Stories of Healing & Hope

Miracles do happen. Check out four heartfelt stories of people who have seen them and lived them...all touched by a Franciscan Alliance miracle at our hospitals.

 

The Flu and You

It's that time of year again. Sick children, ill adults and the never ending attempt to prevent yourself from getting the flu. Influenza, known as "flu" for short, is back in season. Remember that you can greatly decrease your risk of getting the flu through a vaccination within the Franciscan Alliance.

Influenza, while common, is a serious and contagious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes death. Flu strains are constantly changing, creating the need for an annual vaccination to help the body resist new strains.

Cover your mouth and wash your hands! Experts believe that the flu virus is spread mainly through droplets when people cough, sneeze or talk. People can also get the flu by touching a surface or object that has the flu virus on it and then touching their eyes, mouth or nose.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest a three step approach to preventing the flu, with the first step being vaccination.

Second, take everyday actions to help prevent the spread of germs that can cause respiratory illnesses. Do this by:

• Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing
• Washing your hands with soap and water, or using an alcohol-based hand rub
• Avoid touching your eyes, mouth or nose
• Avoid close contact with sick individuals
• Stay home if you are sick to avoid spreading the virus to others

Third, the CDC recommends that you take flu antiviral drugs if your doctor prescribes them. Antiviral drugs work best if taken within the first two days of symptoms to treat those who are very sick. Be sure to see a doctor if you begin to have symptoms reflective of influenza.

To find the closest Franciscan Alliance flu vaccination provider,  call (800)931-3322.

Celebrating the Feast of St. Francis

“FAITH OPENS OUR EYES TO HUMAN LIFE IN ALL ITS GRANDEUR AND BEAUTY.”

Dear Friends,

October 4th is the feast day of the world’s best known and most recognized saint, Francis of Assisi. G. K. Chesterton called him the “first hero of humanism,” and Sir Kenneth Clark called him Europe’s greatest religious genius. According to the Smithsonian bibliography, more lives have been written about him than any other person in history. Even in his lifetime, Francis exerted a magnetic attractiveness, not because of money, good looks and success, but because of his willingness to fully accept the gift we often hesitate to take.

Imprinted in the core of our being is the sense that we are not just accidental, anonymous chips of dust in the universe, destined to flicker for an instant and then disappear forever. We know we are more. We literally feel timelessness, eternity and immortal meaning inside of ourselves. We are special. Faith tells us: We are, all of us, made in God’s image and likeness, blessed. That’s the gift. Our private secret that we are special is in fact the deepest truth.

That isn’t always easy to believe especially in a world in which billions of others are also trying to do the same. Can billions be infinitely precious and utterly unique? Life and circumstances often tire us in ways that tempt us to believe its opposite. American Idols, NFL, Miss Universe, and White Sox tell us that there will be only one special winner. In the end mediocrity, anonymity and mortality overwhelm us.

Saint Francis also faced these challenges. He stepped out into a world being recast by the emerging market economy. His father – thanks to competition – was moving quickly into the new entrepreneurial class with all its positive and negative influences. Francis, however, trusted a deeper voice and a bigger truth. Not only did he see himself as made in God’s image and likeness, but he also saw God’s fingerprints in everything. He saw God in creation, Jesus in the leper, a new church in the ruin, hope in a confusing time, perfect joy in sadness, light in darkness, faith in doubt and peace in the most unexpected places.

Please join us in celebrating the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi.

Fall Recipes and Frugal Findings!

The start of fall can be a double-edged sword. While we begin our football parties and winter clothes unpacking, we begin to move away from outdoor activities. And, without the outdoor exercise, it can be a time of calories not burned.

But this year, don't fret: sweat! Have a plan to exercise and utilize the full spectrum of healthy resources available throughout fall and winter while limiting your intake of high cholesterol and calorically dense foods. Franciscan Physicians Hospital is here to help by providing some health recipes and resources for the cold months ahead.

But first, allow us to present some healthy eating tips that you can incorporate into your daily agenda.

Basic Tips for Eating Healthy

First off, eat a variety of nurtrient-rich foods. Utilize the food pyramid and nutrition labels to monitor what you're "taking in."

Second, eat moderate portions without distractions. Make a distinct effort to eat at the kitchen table, or somewhere that won't be distracting. Watching TV or driving while eating keeps your mind from processing how full your stomach is.

Third, eat regular meals. Don't let prolonged periods of time go between meals. Eating consistently keeps out of control hunger bursts from causing you to over indulge.

Fourth, reduce, but don't eliminate foods that you love. This may include foods high in fat, salt or sugar. The key is limiting your consumption while allowing yourself to enjoy them in moderation.

Fifth, know the pitfalls of your diet. Consider tracking what you eat at each meal over the course of several days. Then, look at what contains the most calories or fat, and cut back on those portions. If you're not eating enough vegetables or fruits, increase those portions.

Recipes for Success

Chicken and Sweet Potato Stew

Here's a recipe that provides you with plenty of protein and a monsoon of Vitamin A (sweet potatoes have 337% of the recommended daily intake per cup!). Plus, it's a warming recipe that you can mix up with your favorite seasonings. Makes 6 servings.

What You'll Need

6 bone-in chicken thighs

2 lbs. of sweet potatoes, peeled and speared

6 large shallots, peeled and halved

1/2 lb. white button mushrooms

4 cloves garlic, peeled

1 cup dry white wine

1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed

1 1/2 tablespoons white-wine vinegar

The Prep

Place all of the items in a 6-quart slow cooker. Cover with a lid and cook on low until potatoes are tender, which will be about 5 hours. Remove bones from chicken before serving, if desired. 

The Nutritional Facts

Per Serving: 285 calories; 6 g fat;  50 mg cholesterol; 35 g carbohydrates; 0 g added sugars; 17 g protein; 5 g fiber; 519 mg sodium (with 1 tsp salt/pepper); 866 mg potassium

Curried Deviled Eggs

Whip up some new flair with healthy antioxidant power. Useful as an appetizer or part of a meal, this simple recipe makes 12 servings.

What You'll Need

12 hard-cooked eggs, peeled

2/3 cup light mayonnaise

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon curry powder
1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions

The Prep

Slice eggs in half lengthwise and remove the yolks. Place them in a small bowl and mash the yolks.

Stir in the remaining ingredients until smooth and creamy. Spoon mixture into egg white halves and sprinkle with chives or green onions.

Refrigerate for one hour or until ready to serve.

The Nutritional Facts

Per Serving: 163 calories; 15 g fat; 1 g carbohydrates; 216 mg cholesterol; 191 mg sodium; 0 g fiber; 6 g protein.

Vegetarian Taco Salad

Utilize this zesty recipe when you want to put some color on the kitchen table. With a quick prep time and mix of flavors, you'll be sure to satisfy with the 6 servings this recipe makes.

What You'll Need

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 large onion, chapped
1 1/2 cups corn kernels
4 large tomatoes
1 1/2 cups cooked brown rice
1 can (15 oz.) kidney or pinto beans, rinsed
1 tablespoon chili powder

1 1/2 teaspoons oregano

1/2 cup chopped cilantro (fresh)

1/3 cup prepared salsa

2 cups lettuce (iceberg or romaine)

1 cup low fat cheese (based on preference)

2 1/2 cups crumbled tortilla chips

The Prep

Heat oil over medium heat in a nonstick skillet. Add the onion and corn, and cook until onion begins to brown (5 mins.). Coarsely chop one tomato and add to skillet along with rice, beans, chili powder and 1 teaspoon oregano. Stir frequently until tomato cooks down and let the contents cool slightly.

Coarsely chop the remaining tomatoes, then combining with the cilantro, salsa and remaining 1/2 teaspoon oregano in a medium bowl.

Toss lettuce with bean mixture in a large bowl. then adding half of the salsa and 2/3 cup cheese. Serve sprinkled with tortilla chips and remaining cheese.

The Nutritional Facts

Per Serving: 395 calories; 17 g fat; 20 mg cholesterol; 52 g carbohydrates; 0 g added sugars; 14 g protein; 9 g fiber; 459 mg sodium (with 1/4 teaspoon salt); 774 mg potassium.

Franciscan Physicians Hospital will be releasing its first-ever cookbook in the coming months, comprising recipes from physicians and staff. Check back for more details on where to purchase your copy!

Prostate Prevention Preparation

September marks a host of great things, from apple orchard openings to sweaters pulled out  from the back shelf of a closet. But one thing that surpasses these events in importance is the awareness of prostate cancer.

National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month is highlighted in September of each year to inform men about preventative steps they can take to reduce their risk of prostate cancer.

While you may have heard of prostate cancer and the prostate as a body part, you might not know exactly what it does or how it's affected by cancer.

An enlarged prostate doesn't necessarily mean prostate cancer, but
similar symptoms are seen with enlarged prostate and prostate cancer. 

About the Prostate & Prostate Cancer

The prostate is a small gland that sits under the bladder and in front of the rectum in men. It serves an important function in the reproductive process by supplying substances that facilitate fertilization and sperm transit, such as enzymes.

Because the prostate is close to several vital organs, prostate cancer treatment can have a complicating effect on otherwise normal functions like reproduction and urination.

With these uncomforting facts comes the reality that prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men. Several factors play into individuals risks of getting this cancer. Of these factors, which includes age, family history, diet, obesity, race and others, age is recognized as the most significant, though men can be diagnosed at any age throughout their life.

What Can I Do to Lower My Risk?

There's no proven strategy to completely prevent prostate cancer but there are steps you can take to lower your risk.

Start by considering your risk factors and by getting a FREE prostate screening at select Franciscan Alliance locations during the month of September.

As part of your daily regimen try choosing a healthy, low-fat diet. This is a simple way to help prevent lots of disorders, including prostate cancer. Try to increase your fruit and vegetable consumption while decreasing the amount of dairy products you eat.

A second, equally important step to reducing your risk is to maintain a healthy weight by exercising each day. Studies looking at correlations between exercise and prostate cancer tend to show that men who exercise have a reduced risk. This too will have positive effects on other areas of your health including cardiovascular function.

Lastly and most importantly, talk to your physician or health care provider about your risk for prostate cancer. Individuals who do have a high risk can explore other options for reduction such as medication.

The Statistics

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2008 (the most recent year with available numbers) 214,633 men in the United States were diagnosed with prostate cancer. Furthermore, 28,471 men in the U.S. died of prostate cancer that same year.

With regards to age, the National Cancer Institute states that from 2005-2009, the mediam age for diagnosis was 67 years old. Incidence rates from age 20-34 were 0%.

Race plays a distinguishing factor in the prevalence of prostate cancer as well. From 2005 to 2008 the breakdown is as follows:

All Races | 154.8 per 100,000 men

White       | 146.9 per 100,000 men

Black        | 236.0 per 100,000 men

Asian/PI  | 85.4   per 100,000 men

Am. Ind.  | 78.4   per 100,000 men

Hispanic  | 125.9 per 100,000 men

Make a Difference

Get involved to make a difference in your life and in the lives of others who have been affected by prostate cancer. A wide variety of groups and organizations are available help you organize your efforts and support those in need.

Visit any of the following groups to learn more about prostate cancer and to get involved in your community: Us TOO International, Inc., Dattoli Cancer Foundation, American Cancer Society,  American Association for Cancer Research,  and the Prostate Cancer Foundation. 

To learn more about Franciscan Alliance programs offered in our hospitals, including cancer care and preventative services, visit us online.

New Web Sites Bring Exciting Changes!

Recently the Franciscan Alliance hopitals, including Franciscan Physicians Hospital, underwent an exciting and dramatic web-face lift!

What you will find on the new sites:

• General hospital and department information
• Consumer health information
• Enhanced physician directory and profiles
• Improved search function for physicians and services 

The sites also include a new and improvied News and Events Center. With this change, we are revising our "old" News and Events (Blogger) site (the one you are on now). Moving forward, this site will be used, exclusively, to feature blog posts from our expert staff and physicians.

Thanks for your support of Franciscan Alliance. And be sure to check out our new Franciscan Physicians Hospital web site at http://www.franciscanalliance.org/munster.

Franciscan Alliance seeks volunteers for American Cancer Society study

Franciscan Alliance has intensified its war on cancer by becoming a local promotional sponsor of a national program aimed at curing the disease.

Franciscan Alliance's Northern Indiana Region has joined with the American Cancer Society's Department of Epidemiology and Surveillance Research, which is recruiting 300,000 adults nationwide, at least 400 of them locally, to volunteer for its Cancer Prevention Study-3.

"Because our current study population (of CPS-2) is aging, we must recruit a new study population for the next generation of research. This will pave the way to further advance our understanding of the lifestyle, environmental and genetic factors that cause and prevent cancer," the society says.

The first study began in 1959; the second in 1982. More than 2.5 million people have participated in the programs.
Some key findings of previous studies include:

• The effects of smoking and secondhand smoke, which led to the U.S. Surgeon General's warning labels on cigarettes, as well as numerous smoke-free legislation measures.
• The impact of obesity on the risk of cancer death.
• The link between aspirin use and lowering the risk of cancer death.
• The impact of air pollution on the heart and lungs, which led to stringent limitations on pollution proposed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
  
  

Volunteers interested in enrolling in the new study may register online at www.cancer.org/nwindianacps3, or at enrollment events scheduled:

• Oct. 14, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.:
  Merrillville Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk
  Hidden Lake Park
  6335 Broadway
  Merrillville
   
• Oct. 16,  4 to 8 p.m.:
  Franciscan Omni Health and Fitness - Schererville
  221 U.S. 41, Suite A
  Schererville
  
  
• Oct. 16, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.:
  Woodland Cancer Care Center
  8955 W. 400 North
  Michigan City
  
  
• Oct. 18, 8 a.m. to noon:
  Franciscan Omni Health and Fitness - Chesterton
  810 Michael Drive
  Chesterton
  
  
• Oct. 18, 8 a.m. to noon:
  Southlake YMCA
  1450 S. Court St.
  Crown Point

• Oct. 19, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.:
  Valparaiso Family YMCA
  1201 Cumberland Crossing
  Valparaiso
  
  

Volunteers must be between the ages of 30 and 65; can never have been diagnosed with cancer (not including basal or squamous cell skin cancer) and must be willing to make a long-term commitment to the study, which involves periodically completing follow-up surveys. Enrollment involves completing a lifestyle survey, signing a consent form, completing a brief written survey, providing a waist measurement and a blood sample.

Back to School: What's in your child's lunch box?

It’s no secret that school lunch in America has its issues. Kids get the option of choosing pizza, fries, and chocolate milk on almost a daily basis. Although the kids may not have an issue with eating these foods every day, it can be very damaging to their health and development.

The nutritional standards for schools are improving, yet sugar laden and fattening options are still readily available in the school cafeteria. Many would say that the answer is to pack your child’s lunch from home. And although this may be healthier, it could be an even worse option as far as nutritional value is concerned if you buy the wrong foods.

Knowing what is truly healthy and what isn’t is the key. Picking up sugary snacks, fattening snack crackers, fruit in heavy syrup and sports drinks to pack in a lunch is comparable to buying flavored milk, fried potato chips, and a cookie at a school cafeteria. Baked snacks, low sodium lunch meat, whole grain breads, fruit, veggies, and real fruit juice are much more viable options when packing your child’s lunch.

Childhood obesity is still a major issue in the US. According to the CDC, childhood obesity has more than tripled in the past 30 years in America. Although in some cases genetics may play a role, most cases of childhood obesity occur from lack of exercise and poor food choices.

Setting a good example at home of what to eat will show your child that eating healthy is “the norm”. If children are getting nutritious meals while at home, choosing healthy options at school will be less difficult for your children. Almost every food distribution company is jumping on board with making America healthier and most brands now have a low sugar, low fat, lite, low sodium, or fat free option.

Here are some "tips to enforce good health" for your kids as they start the new school year:

• Encourage them to expand their horizons by offering incentives for trying new foods

• Try to fix a new meal at home that is appealing to kids like homemade baked chicken tenders instead of frozen or fried options

• Start reading the back of labels for how much sugar, sodium, and fat is in what you are feeding your children

• Eat healthier yourself -- Monkey see, monkey do!

• Take your child grocery shopping with you and let them pick out one of their favorite things to pack in their lunches

• Have your child bring home their school lunch calendar and go over it with them as to what options would be the best for each day

• Make a list of your child’s favorite foods and think of what healhtier options may be comparable

Educating your child from an early age on what healthy foods can do for you and what unhealthy foods will do to you should be a fundamental lesson from home. Whether your child chooses to buy lunch at school or brown bag it, having your child know what healthy options consist of is just as important as getting their homework done.

If you’d like to learn more about childhood obesity, please visit our Franciscan Physicians Hospital Health Library by clicking HERE.

Franciscan Physicians Hospital

701 Superior Avenue, Munster, IN 46321

(219) 922-4200

(866) 614-1777

Franciscan Physician Network expands to better serve patients in 3 states

Franciscan Alliance's Franciscan Physician Network has grown to include more than 260 doctors to serve patients in three states.

The expansion mostly includes physicians in more than 40 health centers and clinics in Indiana, southeast Cook County in Illinois and Berrien County in Michigan. Those facilities are under the auspices of Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point, Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Michigan City, Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer and Hammond, and Franciscan Hammond Clinic and Franciscan Physicians Hospital, both in Munster.

"Franciscan Physician Network is the brand name of a regionally initiated and corporate-led effort to more closely align separate employed physician groups in the Franciscan Alliance Northern Indiana Region, as well as throughout Franciscan Alliance," said Gene Diamond, Northern Indiana Region CEO. "Franciscan Physician Network’s emphasis is on coordinating services to employed physicians and their offices, including, but not limited to, billing, contracting, recruiting, compensation and benefits."

Formation of the expanded Franciscan Physician Network officially took place in January.

Added Scott Bonnar, Franciscan Physician Network regional executive director, "Franciscan Physician Network is working to redesign care delivery. We are driven to provide the highest quality care in the region in a patient-centered and cost-effective way, with sensitivity to the high deductible health plans of our patients.

"We currently provide 42 clinic locations with two urgent care and three Franciscan ExpressCare locations to provide easy access to our service areas."

The Franciscan Physician Network sites also are enhancing their services through use of the EpicCare electronic medical records system, which provides physicians and patients faster access to information and a secure link between doctors' offices and hospitals.

Patients are able to access their medical records free of charge from physician offices and the hospitals through Epic's MyChart system, which also provides reference materials to help them understand their conditions and to answer questions. The system likewise allows patients to request or schedule physician appointments.

For more information on Franciscan Physician Network and a listing of physicians, visit: FranciscanDocs.org.

Follow Your Heart...

When you need heart care, how do you find the right provider? Throughout the region, physicians and patients alike turn to Franciscan Alliance. From minimally invasive procedures to open heart surgeries, they know Franciscan Alliance brings the best of technology and innovative advances. For the finest in heart care, simply follow your heart.

Senior Day at the Lake County Fair - August 6

Franciscan Alliance is a proud sponsor of Senior Citizens Day at the Lake County Fair, Lake County Fairgrounds in Crown Point.

Join us in the Seniors Tent on Monday, August 6, 9 a.m. to noon, for free health screenings and information including:

• Blood Glucose Testing/Finger Sticks (no fasting required)
• Blood Pressure Testing
• Body Fat Analysis
• Nutrition Information
• Senior Promise Program
• SHIIP
• Stroke Information
• Wound, Ostomy, Continence Information
• Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago

Also, in the Showcase Tent, come and check out these events:

• 9 a.m.: Goldtones
• 11 a.m.: Apple Peeling Contest
• 12 noon: Ladies' Red Hat Contest
• 7 p.m.: Rock & Roll Bingo

Hope to see you at the Fair!

Hospital, clinic to provide 24-hour care

Franciscan Hammond Clinic and Franciscan Physicians Hospital have teamed up to provide patients a convenient option for afterhours care.

Together they have developed the ‘Direct Admit Program’ allowing patients to be seen 24/7 when Urgent Care and physician offices are closed.

The process, utilizing night staff nurses at Franciscan Hammond Clinic, gives individuals needing care out of the emergency room where prolonged wait times can delay treatment.

Dr. Cynthia Sanders, medical director at Franciscan Hammond Clinic, states “Our Direct Admit program lets Franciscan Hammond Clinic patients avoid unnecessary trips to the ER, and having their complete medical history at our fingertips allows hospital and clinic staff to make quick and efficient decisions about their care.”

To be directly admitted an individual calls Franciscan Hammond Clinic after hours where they are connected to a night staff nurse. The nurse gathers the patient’s symptoms and contacts the on-call internal medicine physician.

If the symptoms warrant an admission, the physician will contact the Hospitalist at Franciscan Physicians Hospital. The Hospitalist can then review the patient’s chart and prepare for their arrival.

A Hospitalist is a physician whose practice emphasizes provision of care for hospitalized patients. Franciscan Physicians Hospital keeps a Hospitalist on-site twenty four hours a day, seven days a week.

During this time the nurse will call the patient back and assist them with coordination of transport to the hospital through an ambulatory provider, family member or friend.

Upon arrival the patient is admitted and seen by the hospitalist who can provide treatment and contact their primary care provider.

Patients receive care from Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) trained physicians as well as ambulatory transportation when necessary and minimal to no wait time.

The program will provide patients of Franciscan Hammond Clinic and Franciscan Physicians Hospital an added benefit of access to medical history through an Electronic Medical Record (EMR).

Through the EMR, clinical staff can review previous medical treatment, conditions, surgeries and testing, ultimately increasing the care received.

Tracey Franovich, vice president of operations and chief nursing officer at Franciscan Physicians Hospital, condones the new program.

“Our hospital and clinic leaders felt that a new, streamlined avenue was necessary to benefit our patients and treat their emergent needs in a setting where medical records and adequate staff are available at all times. This program is a solid step toward improved patient satisfaction and coordination of care.”

For more information or to reach a night staff nurse, call (219) 836-5800.

Free health screening fair set for August 4

The BIG SCREEN is coming!

Join us for our free health screening fair from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Saturday, August 4 at the Franciscan Hammond Clinic Specialty Center, 7905 Calumet Avenue, Munster.

Free screenings include (you must register for the following by calling 800-931-3322):

• Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (requires fasting after midnight, August 3)
• Carotid Artery
• Hearing Screening
• Diabetes
• Bone Density

Registration is not necessary for the following free screenings:

• Scoliosis
• Blood Pressure

Also...come for the screenings...stay to meet Chicago White Sox pitchers Jesse Crain and Addison Reed! The Superior Ambulance Helicopter and District 1 Disaster Trailer will also be on campus.

Again...to register for screenings, call the Health Resource Center at (800) 931-3322.

Car Wash for Carmelite

Franciscan Physicians Hospital’s Service Excellence Committee will host a fundraising car wash Friday, July 20, from noon to 5 p.m. at the hospital, 701 Superior Avenue in Munster.

The car wash is donation-based and all proceeds will go to the St. Joseph’s Carmelite Home in East Chicago. The Carmelite Home is a residential treatment center for abused, neglected and abandoned children.

For more information, call Andrew Mullins at (219) 922-4200, ext. 5346.

Color codes help patients better identify hospital staff roles

As another step toward patient safety and satisfaction, clinical staff members of Franciscan Alliance Northern Indiana Region hospitals are wearing designated colors to help visitors better know who's-who.

Color codes are designed to make it easier for patients and other hospital personnel to identify nurses and to distinguish between aides, nurses and unit clerks.

Pat Halfman, patient representative for St. Margaret Health - Dyer and Hammond, said the policy, which was effective in June, has been well received by patients.

"Over the last couple of weeks, I have heard several family members comment on how many nurses we have, or, even if we have hired more – that they never saw so many nurses here before," she said, adding. "When I explain that we have the same staff, but it's now easier to see who the nurses and aides are, they just scratch their head in disbelief. I also have heard several patients comment they can tell the staff is proud of what they do and have great teamwork."

Showing the new clinical staff colors are, from left,
Pat Klucker, a unit clerk; Cecilia Yzaguirre, a patient care technician;
and Anna Freeman, a registered nurse.
All are with Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Dyer.

Other patient satisfaction surveys echo the same sentiment.
Color codes include:

• Registered nurses, licensed practical nurses -- dark navy blue, midnight blue. They may wear solid white scrub-type uniforms alone or in combination with navy blue tops or bottoms.
• Patient care technicians, patient care externs, medical assistants, technicians, paramedics who assist nursing staff – dark cranberry, wine.
• Unit clerks – sandstone, khaki.
• Staff in areas that require hospital-issued and laundered scrubs --  "ceil blue" scrub-type uniforms.

"We were excited to join such health care industry leaders as Cleveland Clinic and the University of Michigan Health System as we standardized our uniform colors and have already received patient comments related to the standardized uniform colors improving the professional appearance of our staff," said Carol Schuster, Franciscan Alliance regional chief nursing officer. "We also expect that the color standardization will allow physicians and patients quicker recognition of our staff that in turn will improve our patient safety and quality."

Linda Kraiko, Franciscan St. Margaret Health senior director of patient services, agreed. "The new uniform policy is a win for both our patients and the hospital. The patients and their families can identify who is a nurse, versus a patient care technician or a clerk," she said. "The staff can be identified at a distance rather than having to look for a badge. This also enhances the communication between our patients and staff."

Trish Weber, vice president of operations and chief nursing officer at Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Michigan City, also praised the policy.

"In part, the standardized uniforms were implemented in response to patient feedback/confusion about caregiver roles, in addition to similar standardization taking place at our sister hospitals and hospitals across the state," she said, adding, "We are very excited about our new standardized uniform colors as patients and their family members are now able to more easily identify nursing from other support staff, which facilitates improved patient communication and care and enhances the professional image of nursing."

Besides Franciscan St. Margaret Health, other hospitals in the region include Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point, Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Michigan City and Franciscan Physicians Hospital in Munster.

Fireworks: It's All Fun and Games Until Someone Gets Hurt

Independence Day is quickly approaching! Warm weather, parades, and cookouts are all ways to celebrate the 4th of July. But, what truly stamps a trademark on this tradition are the fireworks. While mesmerizing and exciting, fireworks can be very dangerous. Knowing about firework safety is extremely important to your health during this season of celebration.


According to data on US Hospital Emergency Departments, about 9,600 injuries were from fireworks in 2011, and one fourth of those injuries involved children under the age of fifteen! Eye injuries and severe burns are most common when it comes to injuries from fireworks, but other repercussions can be much worse if you are not cautious.

When it comes to fireworks, your best protection is not using them at all. Professional fireworks displays are the safest way to enjoy fireworks on the 4th of July and the people who provide them are professionals who are aware of the dangers and safety precautions. However, if you still find the urge to set off fireworks on your own, here are six saftey tips to keep in mind.

1. The first rule of safety is to never make your own fireworks. Leave it to the professionals!
2. When purchasing fireworks, make sure there is a printed label and instructions on them. This shows that they are legal. If they do not have a label or instructions, they may be illegal and highly dangerous.
3. Keep children away from the vicinity of fireworks at all times. They are explosives and should not be taken lightly. Even fireworks directed toward small children are dangerous. Did you know a sparkler can reach 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit?
4. Not only can fireworks directly harm you, they can cause danger those around you. According to Fire Marshall Jim Greeson of Indiana, “More than 32,000 fires result annually from the mishandling of fireworks, and cause more than $30 million in property damage." When lighting off the fireworks, make sure you are in a large, open space with nothing in the surrounding area like homes, buildings or cars. Fires are a popular result from careless use of fireworks.
5. Fireworks can also often shoot in the wrong direction, so NEVER hold them in your hands.
6. Keep a fire extinguisher or hose nearby in case of an emergency.

It is important to enjoy your holiday this July, but your health and safety are just as important. Make wise decisions this 4th of July. Enjoy the fireworks, but be cautious if handling them yourself.

If in case of emergency, Franciscan Hammond Clinic’s Urgent Care is open 365 days a year at the specialty center, 7905 Calumet Ave. For more information call: (219) 836-5800.

Gluten Free Living: Helpful or Harmful?

By now, you have probably heard the term “gluten free” or GF, from your co-workers, restaurant menu, grocery store, or favorite TV show. But a decade ago if you were to mention the word “gluten”, not a head would turn in a crowd. Gluten free diets have developed rapidly over the past few years and are becoming increasingly popular. Can eliminating gluten in your diet really make you healthier?

Gluten is a storage protein found in foods like wheat, barley, and rye. When the body cannot digest this protein correctly, it can cause major health issues depending on the severity of the intolerance. Celiac disease is the diagnosis for those with the most severe intolerance. When people with Celiac disease ingest gluten, it causes their bodies to produce antibodies that attack the intestine. If it is not treated properly, it can lead to a variety of autoimmune disorders, weak bones, and in some cases even infertility. About 1% of the population falls into this category.

Others may have a gluten intolerance that is less severe and may just need to avoid gluten to free themselves of the side effects. Some of the side effects of those with gluten intolerance include bloating, fatigue, IBS symptoms, nausea, acid reflux, and vomiting. It is estimated that about 6% of Americans today have some sort of gluten intolerance. So if this number is so small, why are so many jumping on the GF bandwagon?

Some say it’s a losing weight fad. Today, it is estimated that about 25% of Americans are concerned with the consumption of gluten. In college towns, more and more gluten free options are becoming available. Health food stores have stocked their shelves of gluten free products and more restaurants are having gluten free options on their menus. It is mentioned in the media frequently as a healthy way of living. For example, stars like Gwyneth Paltrow, Miley Cyrus, Dr. Oz, and Oprah have claimed that they owe their healthy lifestyle to gluten free decisions. But does eliminating gluten from your diet make you a healthier person?

Yes and no. By eliminating foods that have gluten, your eating options become slim which forces you to choose more foods like fruits and vegetables. Monitoring everything that you eat will become normal, reading nutrition labels will be customary, and most all fast foods and processed foods will be off limits. Yet, if you do not follow a gluten free diet in the correct way, it can be very unhealthy.

Many have self-diagnosed themselves with gluten intolerance or just simply choose to eat gluten free for one reason or another. If it is not properly researched, gluten free diets can cause issues. For example, when you are cutting many foods from your diet that you once had, you may be cutting yourself short on essential vitamins that your body needs. Bones can even become fragile if you are not replacing the correct nutrients in your diet. What most people don’t know is that many processed gluten free products can be fattening. Production companies, often times, rely on fattening components to replace the gluten in a product and to provide the product with any sort of flavor and texture.

So why has General Mills created over 300 gluten free cereals and Amazon.com advertise thousands of gluten free cookbooks? Maybe it’s a “get skinny” fad? Maybe gluten intolerance is finally getting the attention it deserves? Whatever the answer may be, the knowledge of gluten free diets should be one that is not taken lightly and a decision that should not be made without the consultation of your doctor.

For more information about this topic, or other health related topics, check out our A.D.A.M. Interactive Health library at http://www.franciscanphysicians.org/.