PERSPECT!VE!Win

ter 2015

Palos Community Hospital

THE WAKE-UP CALL

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Lee Christensen, M.D., board certified inDiagnostic, Vascular and Interventional Radiology,completed his residency at University of Chicago,Pritzker School of Medicine and fellowship atNorthwestern University Hospital, Evanston. Hereceived his medical degree from University ofChicago, Pritzker School of Medicine. Dr.Christensen is affiliated with Radiology andNuclear Consultants, Ltd.

Irfan Alhayani, M.D., board certified in InternalMedicine, completed his residency at theUniversity of Illinois at Chicago/Advocate ChristMedical Center. He received his medical degreefrom Aleppo University Medical School, Aleppo,Syria. Dr. Alhayani is affiliated with Pronger SmithMedical Care, 2320 W. High St., Blue Island.

Georgios Karanastasis, M.D., board certified inInternal Medicine, completed his residency atJohn H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County,Chicago. He received his medical degree fromUniversity of Athens, Greece. Dr. Karanastasis is affiliated with Zmedi, 6700 W. 167th Street,Suite 5, Tinley Park.

Muhammad Omer, M.D., board certified inInternal Medicine and Nephrology, completed hisresidency at University of Illinois/Advocate ChristMedical Center and fellowship at NorthwesternUniversity, Evanston. He received his medicaldegree from King Edward Medical College,Lahore, Pakistan. Dr. Omer is affiliated withKidney Care Center South, LLC., 7831 W. 95thSt., Unit C, Hickory Hills.

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Nader Tobia, M.D., board certified in InternalMedicine, completed his residency at John H.Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County, Chicago. Hereceived his medical degree from Cairo University,Cairo, Egypt. Dr. Tobia’s office is located at 9401 S.Pulaski Road, Evergreen Park.

Sarah Usmani, M.D., board certified in Internaland Pulmonary Medicine and specializing in Critical Care, completed her residency at WilliamBeaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, MI, and fellowshipat Northwestern University Medical Center andUniversity of Illinois Medical Center, Chicago. Shereceived her medical degree from Aga KhanUniversity, Karachi, Pakistan. Dr. Usmani isaffiliated with Pulmonary & Critical CareConsultants, S.C., 11900 Southwest Highway, Palos Park.

Olga Vila, M.D., board certified in InternalMedicine and Rheumatology, completed herresidency at University of Illinois at Chicago andfellowship at University of Illinois Medical Center,Chicago. She received her medical degree fromUniversity of Puerto Rico. Dr. Vila is affiliated withDr. Cory Conniff at Greater Chicago SpecialtyPhysicians, 10763 Winterset Dr., Orland Park.

Jonathan Cotton, M.D., specializing in OthopaedicSurgery, completed his residency at University ofKansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, andfellowship at University of South Florida, Tampa, FL.He received his medical degree from University ofNebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE. Dr. Cotton isaffiliated with Southside Orthopedics, P.C., 11757Southwest Highway, Palos Heights.

PCH Welcomes New Physicians

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Winter 2015

Catherine Baxtrom, D.O., specializing inEmergency Medicine, completed her residency atMaimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY. Shereceived her medical degree from MidwesternUniversity in Downers Grove. Dr. Baxtrom isaffiliated with Emergency Medical Associates ofPalos, Ltd.

Peter McDonnell, M.D., board certified inSurgery and Vascular Surgery, completed hisresidency at Providence Hospital in Southfield,MI, and fellowship at Cleveland Clinic andSouthern Illinois University School of Medicine,Springfield. He received his medical degree fromChicago Medical School, Rosalind FranklinUniversity. His office is located at 7530 W. CollegeDr., Palos Heights.

Francis Podbielski, M.D., board certified inGeneral Surgery and Thoracic & Cardiac Surgery,completed his residency at Columbus Hospital,Chicago, and University of Illinois at Chicago. Hereceived his medical degree from NorthwesternUniversity in Evanston. Dr. Podbielski is affiliatedwith Cardiothoracic & Vascular SurgicalAssociates, 4440 W. 95th St., Oak Lawn.

Suresh Samson, M.D., board certified in InternalMedicine and Nephrology, completed hisresidency at Yale University Bridgeport Hospital,Bridgeport, CT, and fellowship at Medical Collegeof Wisconsin, Milwaukee. He received hismedical degree from Thanjavur Medical College,India. Dr. Samson is affiliated with Kidney CareCenter South, LLC., 7831 W. 95th St., Unit C,Hickory Hills.

Sushant Taksande, M.D., board certified inInternal Medicine and specializing in Nephrology,completed his residency at Wayne StateUniversity, Detroit, and fellowship at University ofChicago. He received his medical degree fromTopiwala National Medical College, Mumbai,India. Dr. Taksande is affiliated with Kidney CareCenter South, LLC., 7831 W. 95th St., Unit C,Hickory Hills.

Surasak Pratuangtham, M.D., board certified inGeneral Pediatrics, completed his residency andfellowship at Rush University Medical Center inChicago. He received his medical degree fromMahidol University, Ramathibodi Hospital,Bangkok, Thailand. Dr. Pratuangtham is affiliatedwith Southwest Pediatrics, Ltd., One Park Place,8100 W. 119th St., Palos Park.

Ankur Mehta, M.D., board certified inOpthalomology, completed his residency andfellowship at Kresge Eye Institute, Detroit. Hereceived his medical degree from Wayne StateUniversity School of Medicine, Detroit. Dr. Mehta isaffiliated with Chicagoland Retinal Consultants, LLC,7808 W. College Dr., Palos Heights.

Nuha Krad, M.D., board certified in DiagnosticRadiology, completed her residency at University of Illinois College of Medicine, Peoria, andfellowship at Georgetown University Hospital,Washington, D.C. She received her medical degreefrom University of Missouri, Kansas City, MO. Dr. Krad is affiliated with Radiology and NuclearConsultants, Ltd.

Matthew Endara, M.D., specializing in PlasticSurgery, completed his residency at GeorgetownUniversity Hospital, Washington, D.C. He receivedhis medical degree from Feinberg School ofMedicine, Northwestern University, Chicago. Dr. Endara is affiliated with Alan Chen SurgicalAssociates, P.C., 823 129th Infantry Dr., Joliet, and 11824 Southwest Highway, Palos Heights.

Zachary Stender, M.D., specializing in OrthopaedicSurgery, completed his residency at University ofConnecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, andfellowship at Detroit Medical Center, Warren, MI. Hereceived his medical degree from Chicago MedicalSchool. Dr. Stender is affiliated with Pronger SmithMedical Care, 2320 High St., Blue Island, and17495 S. LaGrange Rd., Tinley Park.

Readers of Perspective should understand that physicianslisted or quoted, while having admitting privileges, are notnecessarily employees or agents of Palos Community Hospital.

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Diagnosis givesFrankfort Man a

‘Wake-up Call’

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Winter 2015

Join us at Palos Community Hospital’s annual Diabetes Fair to learnmore about taking charge of your health. “Get Moving, Get Control”will be held 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, March 7, at PalosCommunity Hospital Auditorium, 12251 S. 80th Ave., Palos Heights.Check-in is at 8 a.m. During the event, Michelle Adams, an exercisephysiologist, will share tips for living healthy and being active as key

components to diabetes management. This free event is for peoplewith diabetes and their family members. Information about theextensive support services at Palos, including nutrition counselingand comprehensive diabetes program, home health care and physicaltherapy, also will be provided. Registration is required. Call (708) 226-2330 to register.

A few months ago, Mark Hoops lost his

younger brother to kidney cancer. Depressed,

he turned to food to help him deal with it.

“I was doing a lot of emotional eating late at

night. It was my way of coping,” he says. “I

got super heavy. I wasn’t exercising. My body

just quit.”

Mark, 51, of Frankfort, concealed how he was

feeling for four or five months because he

didn’t want to worry his family, who had

already been through so much. But he felt

tingling in his arms and feet and was out of

breath when walking up stairs. He knew he

needed to seek help.

He made an appointment with Richard

DeJong, M.D., his family physician with Palos

Medical Group. He was diagnosed with Type

2 diabetes, which accounts for 90 to 95

percent of all people with the disease.

Mark’s diabetes was in the early stages, and

he immediately began taking medication to

help control his blood glucose levels. “That’s

when I started getting serious about taking

ownership of my diabetes,” he says. “Just by

changing what I eat and exercising, it has

made seismic shifts in the way I control my

diabetes and manage my life.”

A registered dietitian from Palos Community

Hospital’s Nutrition Counseling and Diabetes

Program Services talked with Mark about

monitoring his blood glucose, helped him

adjust his diet and provided motivation for

necessary lifestyle changes.

“Our goal is to equip patients with the

knowledge, skills and tools they need to

successfully manage their diabetes and delay

or prevent many of the complications

associated with the disease,” says Lela

Iliopoulos, a registered dietitian who serves as

dietitian supervisor for the Diabetes Program

Services at Palos.

Mark says the one-on-one time with theregistered dietitian was “phenomenal.” Theytalked through strategies, goals, what to eatand how to count the values of the foods heeats. “I walked out with marching orders, andI’ve followed them every day since.”

With diet and exercise, Mark lost nearly 70pounds, averaging about 1-1/2 pounds aweek. His ultimate goal is to lose about 20more pounds, which would put him at theweight he was when he got married.

Mark doesn’t see having diabetes as adetriment. “It caused me to wake up,” he says. “I actually consider my diagnosis to be something that helped me get back in control of my life.”

Diabetes Program at Palos Committed to Education, Awareness and Self-Management for People with Diabetes

To learn more about the Diabetes

Program at Palos Community

Hospital, call (708) 226-2330.

LEARN

Diabetes Fair:Get Moving, Get Control

Just by changingwhat I eat and exercising, it hasmade seismic shifts in the way I controlmy diabetes andmanage my life.”

“

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FAMILYTIES

www.PalosCommunityHospital.org

As a child, Megan DeJong, M.D., didn’t think she would be a doctorwhen she grew up. She watched her dad, Richard DeJong, M.D., afamily practice physician with Palos Medical Group in Orland Park,work long hours taking care of his patients. She even went on roundswith him at Palos Community Hospital, coloring in the nurses’ stationwhile she waited. “I thought, ‘Wow, my dad works so hard.’ I neverwant to work all those hours and be tired all the time.”

But here she is many years later — following in her dad’s footsteps byattending his alma maters — Trinity Christian College in Palos Heightsand Loyola University in Maywood — now putting in those same longhours as a successful obstetrician and gynecologist with Palos MedicalGroup in Orland Park.

Here’s how it all transpired.

How old were you when you first realized you wanted to follow in the family footsteps?

Dr. Megan DeJong: I first decided I wanted to be a doctor in highschool, but I strayed a little and attended Iowa State University for a few semesters to pursue medical illustration. I was OK at that but notthe best. I wanted to do something I could really do well and I knew I would be a good doctor.

Why did you pick your specialty?

Dr. Megan DeJong: Funny enough, I thought my dad works too hard. I never want to go into his specialty. Then, I picked obstetrics andgynecology — the specialty with the craziest hours, biggest surprisesand more chaos than you bargain for sometimes, but I love it. My dadtried to talk me out of it.

Dr. Richard DeJong: I did, but she didn’t listen to her father. And it’sgood she didn’t because she loves it. It’s a great fit for her personality.

How did your dad encourage you?

Dr. Megan DeJong: He has been more than supportive every step of theway. He talked me through the stress of school and helped me tackleproblems I couldn’t figure out, which he still does today. But I thinkmore importantly, he shaped the kind of doctor I am by modeling what agreat physician is. I watched him every day interact with patients — onthe phone, at church, at the grocery store. It is still a rare event to be out

with my father and not have him recognized. He is a very prominentmember of this community.

What do you enjoy about working in the community where you were raised?

Dr. Megan DeJong: This community is my people. They’re my roots. I love hearing stories from people who also have been patients of myuncle, Dr. Alex DeJong, also a family practice physician with PalosMedical Group, or my dad. That is really special. Also, I honestlycouldn’t stand leaving my family.

Dr. Richard DeJong: We, as a family, are a good fit for Palos. My brotheris six years older than me, so he served as my influence as a familypractice physician. We really complement each other. Our family hashad a 35-year connection with Palos Community Hospital and I’mhappy Megan plays a part in that. She could have taken a job on thenorthwest side of Chicago, but she stayed here. I’m a proud papa.

What advice do you have for people pursuing a career in health care?

Dr. Megan DeJong: I think what makes a good doctor is not what theyknow, but how they guide people’s fears and challenges and walk themalong the path of their illness. I learned that from watching my dad, andit’s the greatest influence he could have shared with me.

Dr. Richard DeJong: My advice is simple — do your job well and putthe patients first. Treat your patients like you would your family. If youkeep that centered, everything else falls into place.

Dr. Richard DeJongand Dr. Megan DeJong

Megan DeJong, M.D., obstetrician and gynecologist, Palos Medical Group,Orland Park; and Richard DeJong, M.D., family practice physician, PalosMedical Group, Orland Park

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Being a health care provider has long played an important rolein the Liston family.

“One of my brothers and I grew up going on house calls with ouruncle, who was a pediatrician,” says Michael Liston, M.D., anorthopaedic surgeon affiliated with Palos. “It made a tremendousimpact on us. My brother and I both became doctors.”

And the legacy doesn’t stop there.

A son, Mike Liston Jr., M.D., is a family practice physician withPalos Medical Group in Orland Park.

A daughter is in nursing school, another daughter is an operatingroom nurse, and her husband, Jon Cotton, M.D., works alongsidehis father-in-law as an orthopaedic surgeon at SouthsideOrthopedics in Palos Heights. Dr. Cotton himself also comes from a family of physicians — his father a neurologist, hisgrandfather an obstetrician.

“Even with that history of medicine in our families, it’s really aboutletting people find their own way and what makes them happy,” thepatriarch Liston explains. “My philosophy has always been to do whatmakes you happy, fulfills your talents and does the most good for themost people.”

Here’s how the three physicians chose their career paths.

What inspired you to follow your dad’s career path and become adoctor?

Dr. Mike Liston Jr.: I saw the good my father did for people my wholelife. One day I was in his office after school working on homework, and Isaw a letter from a patient thanking my dad for saving his life. Not alljobs have such a profound effect on the life of someone else. He trulymakes a difference in people’s lives.

What was your reaction to your son’s career choice?

Dr. Michael Liston: To say I was thrilled that Mike wanted to be a doctorwould be an understatement. I thought it would be wonderful for himbecause I knew he would be a natural at taking care of people.Additionally, I knew what a plus it would be for the people here in thePalos area.

What do you enjoy about working in the community where you wereraised?

Dr. Mike Liston Jr.: What’s not to love? The people here are wonderful.

Dr. Michael Liston: We are so fortunate to be able to work in the Paloscommunity. We have the nicest patients in the world. They really are. Itwas never any question where we wanted to live. This is a great place tolive and work.

How does your work intertwine?

Dr. Michael Liston: For about the past 15 years a group of doctors has

been volunteering at the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in Browning,Mont., an underserved population without access to a lot of medicalcare. About three times a year, we go out and provide medical care tothe people there. I’ve had the extreme pleasure of working with Jon,Mike and my daughter at the reservation. It’s a true bonding experiencefor us.

Dr. Cotton: It was one of those trips that ultimately led me down thepath of orthopaedics. I was in college at the time and knew I wanted tobe a doctor, but I wasn’t sure which specialty I wanted to choose yet.When I went to the reservation and saw Dr. Liston interact with thepeople who live there, I really got to see the good you can do.

What do you find special about working with each other?

Dr. Michael Liston: These guys are really diplomatic in opening newwindows and teaching me about the latest in our fields.

Dr. Mike Liston Jr.: We’re really fortunate because we are able toseparate work life from home life.

Dr. Cotton: Working together is really a lot of fun.

Dr. Michael Liston: And that’s just it. It all comes down to doing whatyou really want to do in life. If you love what you do, then you lookforward to going to work every day.

Winter 2015

Dr. Michael Liston, Dr. Mike Liston Jr. and Dr. Jon Cotton

Mike Liston Jr., M.D., family practice physician, Palos Medical Group, Orland

Park and Jon Cotton, M.D., orthopaedic surgeon, Southside Orthopedics, Palos

Heights and Michael Liston, M.D., orthopaedic surgeon, Southside

Orthopedics, Palos Heights

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Most of all, I could see howmuch my father enjoyedcaring for his patients, not to mention the closefriendships he had with hiscolleagues. Those positivememories stuck with me andhelped make my decision tobecome a physician.”Dr. Haider Shirazi

“

www.PalosCommunityHospital.org

Haider Shirazi, M.D., radiation oncologist, and S. Javed Shirazi, M.D.,

radiation oncologist, AlphaMed, Tinley Park

Dr. S. Javed Shirazi and Dr. Haider Shirazi

Haider Shirazi, M.D., knew from an early age that he wanted to be a

doctor. “When I was in elementary school, I would go to the hospital

with my dad on the weekends when he would round. I loved looking at

X-rays, the colorful pictures of the radiotherapy treatment plans and

wanted to understand how all the machines and medications worked.

As a 7-year-old, the snacks in the doctor’s lounge and the occasional

free pen might have influenced me as well,” jokes Dr. Shirazi, a

radiation oncologist working alongside his father, S. Javed Shirazi, M.D.,

at AlphaMed in Tinley Park. “Most of all, I could see how much my

father enjoyed caring for his patients, not to mention the close

friendships he had with his colleagues. Those positive memories stuck

with me and helped make my decision to become a physician.”

Here’s how the father and son duo continue to inspire each other.

What inspired you to follow in your father’s footsteps and become adoctor?

Dr. Haider Shirazi: Everyone is always curious if my parents pushed me

to go into medicine, particularly given that my dad is a doctor and my

mom's dad was as well. Actually, my parents wanted me to make the

choice for myself. The big decision for me was whether to stay in

academic medicine and continue to be involved in research or to work

in the community. In the end, I felt I wanted to focus on taking care of

patients and helping people.

Dr. S. Javed Shirazi: I have always advised him to pursue his dreams

and passions and do something he would enjoy and find rewarding.

What was your reaction to your son’s career choice?

Dr. S. Javed Shirazi: I was very excited and pleased at the prospect of

imparting my experiences to Haider and learning from him. I believed

he had the personality and compassion to do well in the oncology field.

What do you enjoy about working in the community where you were

raised?

Dr. Haider Shirazi: My dad has always been deeply committed to

serving the community in the southwest suburbs, an area I also know

since I spent part of my childhood here. I am lucky to have been able to

join his practice, work alongside him and serve the same community he

has for more than 40 years.

What do you find special about working with each other?

Dr. S. Javed Shirazi: It gives me a special inner peace and brings us

closer together. As long as we complement each other — which I

believe we do — we will have a great working and personal relationship.

Dr. Haider Shirazi: Working together has lots of benefits — he is a great

clinician, and I get to have him as a mentor. Few oncologists have more

experience than him, and it's nice to be able to have expert advice from

a friend, just a phone call away!

What is your No. 1 tip for success for colleagues who want to make a

go of a multigenerational practice?

Dr. S. Javed Shirazi: Make sure you get along well as friends and

colleagues and respect each other’s individuality.

Dr. Haider Shirazi: We work well together because we communicate

regularly, we both have a strong work ethic and most of all are

committed to our patients. We trust and respect each other profession-

ally and personally. It’s exciting to be able to work alongside my dad and

to help continue his life’s work.

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Winter 2012

When Ilija Sreckovic, M.D., a retired urologistand assistant clinical professor emeritus ofurology at Loyola University, walks the halls ofPalos Community Hospital, it’s notuncommon to see him stop multiple times toshake hands with his colleagues. During the40-plus years the respected physician sawpatients at Palos, his integrity and work ethic earned the respectof many and served as a guiding light for his son, George Sreckovic,M.D., who has since taken over the family urology practice. “My dad’scharacter, commitment and passion really defined my goal to be adoctor.”

Here’s a look at how the Sreckovic family lives life to the fullest.

What inspired you to follow in your father’s footsteps and become adoctor?

Dr. George Sreckovic: My dad’s mother was a midwife, so she was theinspiration for all of us. I was about 9 or 10 when I knew I wanted to beas passionate about being a doctor as my dad.

Sometimes he would bring me on rounds and even to surgeries. I waskind of a quiet, sheepish kid and that really opened my eyes. I noticedall the diversity around me and it grabbed my interest, being in anenvironment where you can do something to help people.

Dr. Ilija Sreckovic: In our house, I always talked about medicine.During dinner we would talk about politics, medicine … all kinds ofcommon dinnertime topics. But I never pushed him to be a doctor.

How proud were you to have your son join your practice?

Dr. Ilija Sreckovic: It was phenomenal. George joined me at thepractice about 15 years ago. I think one of the most thrilling measuresof success is when your son operates with you on major surgeries. Hestarted doing more and more, and finally, one day I retired. Therelationship between a father and child is essentially the same as with abusiness. Sometimes, there are frictions and different ideas, but withGeorge it was absolutely smooth and perfect.

What do you enjoy about working in the community where you wereraised?

Dr. George Sreckovic: The first thing patients ask me is “How’s yourdad?” I’m honored when they ask me that question. Our patients arehappy to hear how he’s doing and they’re happy to see me follow in hisfootsteps. Our commitment to this community is special. I was raisedhere, and I get to see generations of family members. Following in apractice that has been established, especially in a community likePalos, and working with our patients has truly been a blessing. I owe itall to my dad, and I remind him of that every day.

What did you find special about working with each other?

Dr. Ilija Sreckovic: Working with my son was like a nice, beautiful song.

Dr. George Sreckovic: You grow by learning, and that’s what we didtogether. We grew together, and it made me a better doctor, betterhusband and better man. I wish my dad would come back to work. Imiss him as a colleague and a mentor.

What advice do you have for people pursuing a career in health care?

Dr. Ilija Sreckovic: Honesty. Honesty in medicine is one of the greatestachievements you can have as a surgeon.

Dr. George Sreckovic: Our philosophy is to do your best and never haveany regrets. That’s how we live our life.

George Sreckovic, M.D., urologist, Associated Urological Specialists, LLC,Orland Park and Ilija Sreckovic, M.D., urologist (retired)

Dr. Ilija Sreckovic and Dr. George Sreckovic

You grow by learningand that’s what we didtogether. We grewtogether, and it mademe a better doctor,better husband andbetter man.” Dr. George Sreckovic

“

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The Importance of the Right Care at the Right Place and Time

WHY QUALITYANESTHESIOLOGY MATTERS

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“You need surgery.” Those are threestressful words to hear. At Palos Community Hospital, you are in goodhands before, during and after surgery.The anesthesiology team helps you every step of the way by providing expert medical care throughout your entire surgical experience.

“The anesthesiologist is truly at the center of a patient’s satisfaction with surgery,” says Kristin Commito, an anesthesiologist with PalosAnesthesia Associates and medical director of perioperative services atPalos. “We make sure our patients are medically prepared for surgery.We ensure their safety and comfort throughout surgery and in thepostoperative period, too.”

Providing you with individualized care and the most advanced medicaltechnology, the board-certified anesthesiologists offer a full-range oftechniques. These include sedation, general anesthesia, spinal andepidural anesthesia and advanced peripheral nerve blocks. The choiceof anesthetic is tailored to your needs and specific procedure.

The anesthesiologists provide in-house care 24 hours a day, seven daysa week. Before surgery, an anesthesiologist meets with you to discussyour medical history, lab results and medications. Together, you devisean individualized anesthetic plan. The anesthesiology team’s goal is tokeep you safe and comfortable from the preoperative period to yourdischarge from the hospital.

“Risks are based on the type of surgery a patient is having and his orher underlying medical conditions. We manage all of those issues,ensuring patients’ well-being as surgery goes on,” Dr. Commitoexplains. “Commonly, our patients tell us before their procedures thatthey are terrified of anesthesia. A lot of that is the fear of the unknown,so we provide explanation and reassurance to patients and their lovedones. We are there to answer any questions they have, in as muchdepth as they need.”

During surgery, a patient’s blood pressure, EKG tracing, oxygen leveland carbon dioxide level are measured continuously. This allows theanesthesiologist to monitor heart function, blood circulation andbreathing. “We are able to see changes as they happen, and to takeimmediate measures to correct anything that might cause a problem.Anesthesiology is incredibly focused,” Dr. Commito says. “We have an incredible team at Palos Community Hospital. Getting our patientssafely through surgery is a team approach, and we take a lot of pride in what we do.”

1. Are you certified by The American Board of Anesthesiology?

2. What type of anesthesia do you recommend for my procedure?

• What are the risks and benefits of this type of anesthesia?

• What alternatives are available to this type of anesthesia?

• What are the risks and benefits of these alternatives?

3. Will I require a breathing tube?

• Will I wake up with the breathing tube in place?

4. What are the options for postoperative pain management?

5. What are the options for prevention and/or treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting?

SOURCE: The American Board of Anesthesiology

Winter 2015

The number of surgical procedures in the United States is increasingeach year. In 2010, more than 51 million inpatient surgeries and 53 million ambulatory surgeries were performed. Physician anesthes-iologists participated in more than 90 percent of those cases, according to the American Society of Anesthesiology.

Questions to ask your anesthesiologist

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MEETINGYOUR NEEDS,EXCEEDING YOUREXPECTATIONS

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The Emergency Department at Palos offersexceptional quality clinical care, and ourpatients have noticed. The ED recently scoredin the 99th percentile for patient satisfactionamong Chicago area hospitals. With more than75 percent of our inpatients being admittedthrough the Emergency Department, thefacilities are being expanded to match the high caliber care.

“We are redesigning our EmergencyDepartment to provide patients with theprivacy and comfort they deserve whileseeking treatment at Palos,” says TerrenceMoisan, M.D., President and CEO of PalosCommunity Hospital. “The modernizeddepartment will provide our nurses andphysicians with the tools to best care forour patients.”

Once completed, the Emergency Departmentat Palos Community Hospital will offer 25,000square feet, representing an $11 millioninvestment to the community it serves. Theproject, which nearly doubles the size of thedepartment, is being managed in two phases— the first section recently opened in January,with full use of the space scheduled forsummer 2015.

Featuring best-practice design strategies, thedepartment will feature:

n Direct access to registration

n With an inviting, calming environment, a new family lounge overlooks the natural surroundings of our courtyard

n Private triage area

n Private patient rooms with enhanced

amenities including televisions

n Universal patient rooms, allowing for an easy transition to care for a wide-range of medical needs in one location

n Improved access to diagnostic testing/imaging

n Enhanced design to bring care providers closer to the patient bedside

In 2014, Palos treated approximately 50,000patients in the Emergency Department.

“For many people, the ED provides a patientwith his or her first interaction with thehospital,” explains Bridget Long, Clinical NurseLeader of the Emergency Department. “Youdon’t get a second chance to make a goodimpression. We are doing everything to ensureour patients have a great experience.”

Winter 2015

With an $11 Million Investment, Our Emergency Department is Committed toProviding Quality Care in a State-of-the-Art Setting

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www.PalosCommunityHospital.org

Unless otherwise noted, call(708) 226-2300 for more information or to register.

Registration is required for all classes.

&

CLICK

Perspective is a publication of Palos Community Hospital 12251 S. 80th Avenue Palos Heights, IL 60463 (708) 923-4000

President & CEO: Terrence MoisanEditor: Karin Saltanovitz Design: Osborn & DeLong

CLASSES, EVENTS,GROUPS

Diabetes Fair 2015 — Get Moving, Get ControlJoin us at Palos Community Hospital’s annual DiabetesFair to learn more about taking charge of your health.During this year’s event, “Get Moving, Get Control,”Michelle Adams, an exercise physiologist, will sharetips for living healthy and being active as keycomponents toward diabetes management. This freeevent is for people with diabetes and their familymembers. Information about the extensive supportservices at Palos, including nutrition counseling and comprehensive diabetes program, home healthcare and physical therapy, also will be provided.Registration is required. Light refreshments will be available. TIME/ DATE: 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, March 7(Check-in is at 8 a.m.)LOCATION: Palos Community Hospital Auditorium,12251 S. 80th Ave., Palos Heights REGISTRATION: (708) 226-2330COST: FREE

Defeating Worry, Anxiety and Stress and Achieving Tranquility, Serenity and PeaceDo you spend a lot of your time and energy agonizingover the past and worrying about the future? Does allthis negativity cause you stress? If you are tired ofdealing with negative emotions that take the joy out ofyour life, come to this program led by CatherineWatkins, MSW, LCSW, licensed clinical social worker,and learn techniques that will stop the roller coaster ofbad feelings and put you on the calm road totranquility, serenity and peace.TIME/ DATE: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, March 12 LOCATION: Palos Health & Fitness Center, 15430 West Ave., Orland ParkREGISTRATION: (708) 226-2330COST: FREE

Thinking It Through: ResolvingDepression and Anxiety throughCognitive TherapyDepression and anxiety are painful, distressingdisorders that steal your ability to enjoy life andfunction as you should. Solving any problem, however,requires an accurate focus on the true issues causingthe distressing mood. Research has shown distortedthinking is at the core of most depressive and anxiousdisorders. Join us to discover a cognitive approach toeffectively self-managing depression and anxiety.TIME/ DATE: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 14 LOCATION: Palos Health & Fitness Center, 15430 West Ave., Orland ParkREGISTRATION: (708) 226-2330COST: FREE

Pamper Me Pink! A Night of Mammograms and DIY Spa FunGrab your girlfriends and join us for a night ofmassages, make-up and mammograms. Relax in a spa-like environment while enjoying chair massagesand do-it-yourself instructional tips for mud mask andmake-up applications. While you don’t need a doctor’sorder to get your annual screening, we do ask that youbring your driver’s license and insurance card.TIME/DATE: Groups scheduled at 6 and 6:30 p.m.Thursday, March 12LOCATION: Palos Diagnostic Center, 17333 S. LaGrange Rd., Tinley Park REGISTRATION: (708) 923-5104COST: Insurance will be billed

A Matter of BalanceDo you have concerns about falling? This program, AMatter of Balance, is designed to reduce the fear offalling and increase the activity levels of older adultswho have concerns about falling. This program,sponsored by Palos Community Hospital, emphasizespractical strategies to manage falls. Two-hour sessionsare held once a week for eight weeks.TIME/DATE: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Tuesdays, March 3 to April 21

LOCATION: Palos Health & Fitness Center, 15430 West Ave., Orland ParkTIME/DATE: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Wednesdays, March 4 to April 22LOCATION: Palos Community Hospital, 12251 S. 80th Ave., Palos HeightsREGISTRATION: (708) 226-2300COST: $80

Take Better Care of Your BackThere is hope and help for aching backs. Learn how toavoid this unnecessary ailment by attending a freeworkshop on back care led by a Palos physicaltherapist. Registration is required. TIME/DATE: 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 7 Call for additional dates.LOCATION: Palos Community Hospital, 12251 S. 80th Ave., Palos HeightsREGISTRATION: (708) 226-2300COST: FREE

Demystifying LymphedemaLymphedema is a chronic swelling disorder thatgenerally affects the arms and legs. While lymphedemacan be a genetic disorder of unknown origin, it iscommonly observed following the treatment of breastcancer. Without proper management, the condition canworsen, changing the appearance of the extremity andeven increasing the risk of infection in the affectedarea. Gain insight on this condition including thevarious causes, diagnostic indicators, risks andmanagement strategies by attending this freepresentation by Yasemin Ozcan, M.D., a physicianboard certified in physical medicine and rehabilitationand specialist in lymphedema, and Caroline Leflar,physical therapist and certified lymphedema therapist.TIME/DATE: 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, February 24(following Lymphedema Support Group)LOCATION: Palos Community Hospital, 12251 S. 80thAve., Palos HeightsREGISTRATION: (708) 226-2300COST: FREE

Your Diabetes Game PlanDiabetes is a lifelong condition that affects manyaspects of a person’s life, both physically andemotionally. Our nationally recognized DiabetesProgram provides education for the self-managementof diabetes. Your Diabetes Game Plan includesinstruction on blood-glucose monitoring, educationabout diet and exercise, the development of an insulintreatment plan for the patient who is insulin-depen-dent, and motivation for patients to use the skills forself-management. In addition to addressing eatinghabits and creating a customized eating plan, we alsodiscuss feelings and thoughts about having diabetes,as well as educate participants on behavior changestrategies, lifestyle modification and personal goalsetting. A physician referral is required to join theprogram. INFORMATION: For more details, including meetingtimes and fees, call (708) 226-2330.LOCATION: Palos Primary Care Center, 15300 West Ave.,Orland Park

TLC (Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes)Dietary changes can lead to significant improvementsin cholesterol levels. Learn how to change your healthby meeting one-on-one with a Palos registered dietitianfor four sessions. Physician referral required.INFORMATION: For more details, including availableappointments and fees, call (708) 226-2330.LOCATION: Primary Care Center, 15300 West Ave.,Orland Park

Nutrition for Your HeartAre you ready to start eating healthy for your heart’ssake? In this one-hour class, a Palos registereddietitian will help you understand how to control fatintake; avoid trans fats; reduce your intake of saturatedfat, cholesterol and sodium; increase fiber; and readfood labels. INFORMATION: For additional information, includingmeeting times, call (708) 226-2330.LOCATION: Palos Primary Care Center, 15300 West Ave., Orland Park COST: $20 per participant

Wellness

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Winter 2015

Family-Centered CareBirthing Center TourWhen you’re expecting a baby, you have manydecisions to make. One of the most important iswhere to deliver your child. At Palos CommunityHospital, we can help you start — or add to — yourfamily in a safe, comfortable and caring environment.Learn more about delivering at Palos and how we aredifferent from other hospitals by offering “single-roommaternity care.” This means labor, delivery, recovery,and the postpartum stay all take place in our newlyremodeled private rooms. TIME/DATE: 2 p.m. Saturday, February 21 Call for additional dates.LOCATION: Palos Community Hospital, 12251 S. 80th Ave., Palos Heights REGISTRATION: (708) 226-2300

Birth, Babies & BeyondDiscover how to get the most out of your birthingexperience whether you desire childbirth with orwithout pain relief medication or anesthesia. In arelaxed setting, expectant mothers and their supportperson learn about labor, birth, medical interventions,physical and emotional changes after birth, infantcare, and more. TIMES: Classes are available in two formats: a four-weeksession, one evening per week on Wednesdays orThursdays, from 7 to 9:30 p.m. ($85 per couple), or aweekend marathon from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday ($95 per couple, mealsprovided). Call for available dates.LOCATION: Palos Community Hospital, 12251 S. 80th Ave., Palos Heights REGISTRATION: (708) 226-2300

Baby BasicsThis 3-1/2-hour class is for couples who may beexpecting their first child, planning to adopt orwanting up to date information on caring for anewborn. Topics include feeding, diapering, bathing,growth and development, infant stimulation, newborncharacteristics and behavior, infant-soothingtechniques, signs of illness, immunizations, choosingbaby equipment, car seat safety and general safety.TIME/DATE: 6 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, February 26. Thisclass meets on the fourth week of the Birth, Babies &Beyond class. Couples also have the option of coming onthe Sunday of the Birth, Babies & Beyond Weekendsession. Call for additional times and dates.LOCATION: Palos Community Hospital, 12251 S. 80thAve., Palos Heights COST: $20 per coupleREGISTRATION: (708) 226-2300

Breastfeeding BasicsJoin a Palos Community Hospital lactation consultantas she provides the basics for successfully nursingyour baby. This class covers breastfeedingadvantages, practical techniques, pumping, storing,returning to work, dad’s role and family support.TIME/DATE: 6:30 to 9 p.m. Monday, March 9 Call for additional dates.LOCATION: Palos Community Hospital, 12251 S. 80th Ave., Palos Heights COST: $20 per coupleREGISTRATION: (708) 226-2300

CPR & Pediatric First AidDo you provide care for a child? If so, you need to beprepared to act in an emergency. This four-hourAmerican Heart Association class is intended forparents, grandparents and anyone 11 years or olderinterested in learning cardiopulmonary resuscitationtechniques to assist infants, children and adults indistress. Participants also will learn how to addresscommon pediatric first aid issues and when to call for help.TIME/DATE: 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday,February 21, or 5:45 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, March 5 Call for additional dates.LOCATION: Palos Community Hospital, 12251 S. 80th Ave., Palos Heights COST: $30 per personREGISTRATION: (708) 226-2300

Support GroupsLook Good…Feel BetterPalos Community Hospital is pleased to offer thisfree, non-medical program in partnership with theAmerican Cancer Society. Professionals from thecosmetic industry provide training on makeup, skinand nail care techniques, as well as wigs, hats andscarves to help you look your best during cancer-fighting treatments. TIME/DATE: 3 to 5 p.m. February 10LOCATION: Palos Diagnostic Center, 17333 S.LaGrange Rd., Lower Level, Tinley Park REGISTRATION: (708) 226-2300COST: FREE

Lymphedema Support GroupIn this group, individuals with lymphedema havethe opportunity to network with others experiencingthe same condition, while receiving updates onrelated products, community resources andmanagement strategies. This support group will befollowed by an educational program discussing thelatest in lymphedema management, refer to theWellness section.TIME/DATE: 6:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, February 24 Call for additional dates. LOCATION: Palos Community Hospital, 12251 S. 80th Ave., Palos HeightsREGISTRATION: (708) 226-2300COST: FREE

Caregiver Support Group Offered by professionals from Palos Home HealthCare, this group provides emotional and practicalsupport for family members and friends caring for aloved one in the last years of life. TIME/DATE: 7 p.m. the first Wednesday of the monthLOCATION: Palos Primary Care Center (ImmediateCare Center entrance), 15300 West Ave., Orland ParkREGISTRATION: (630) 257-1111COST: FREE

Big Brother/Big SisterThis 90-minute sibling class emphasizes the specialimportance of big brothers and big sisters. Theprogram includes a discussion of how siblings mayfeel about the new baby, characteristics and behaviorsof newborns, and how siblings can safely interact withinfants. Siblings practice holding and diapering ondolls. A tour of the Birthing Center is included. Thisclass is open to children ages 3 to 10 years old.TIME/DATE: 2 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, February 14 Call for additional dates.LOCATION: Palos Community Hospital, 12251 S. 80th Ave., Palos Heights COST: $7.50 per child, or $20 for three or more childrenREGISTRATION: (708) 226-2300

The Joy of GrandparentingAre you welcoming a grandchild? Attend this freeclass to help you establish a special relationship withyour grandchild by exploring the many facets of thegrandparent role and learning about familyadjustment, ways to support the new parents and thelatest in baby care. An update on childbirth practicesand a tour of the Maternity Unit are included.TIME/DATE: 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, March 26 Call for additional dates.LOCATION: Palos Community Hospital, 12251 S. 80th Ave., Palos HeightsCOST: FREEREGISTRATION: (708) 226-2300

Nursing Moms NetworkThe group provides new mothers with the opportunityto share experiences with other breastfeeding women,and to receive ongoing guidance and support from aPalos Community Hospital Lactation Consultant.TIME/DATE: 11 a.m. every TuesdayLOCATION: Palos Community Hospital, 12251 S. 80th Ave., Palos HeightsCOST: FREE REGISTRATION: (708) 226-2300

Babysitter Training Class This eight-hour American Red Cross class helpsadolescents ages 11 to 15 build self-esteem anddevelop leadership, decision-making andcommunication skills, as well as give them ameaningful way to earn money. This training course isfun and fast-paced, with hands-on activities, role-playing and lively discussions. Topics covered includesupervising children and infants; performing suchbasic child-care skills as diapering, feeding anddressing; choosing safe, age-appropriate games andtoys; identifying safety hazards and preventinginjuries; and caring for such common injuries asburns, cuts and bee stings. Lessons on infant/childcardiopulmonary resuscitation and relief of chokingtechniques are included. TIME/DATE: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday, February 16 Call for additional dates. Please bring your lunch.LOCATION: Palos Community Hospital, 12251 S. 80th Ave., Palos Heights COST: $55 REGISTRATION: (708) 226-2300

First Aid for Little PeopleThis fun, interactive 90-minute American Red Crossclass teaches kids ages 6 to 8 how to help themselvesor someone else in an emergency. Have youryoungster learn about the dangers of poisons; how togive basic first aid for nosebleeds, cuts, bumps andburns; how to keep safe during a fire; and what to dountil help arrives. This is an ideal “scouting” activity. INFORMATION: Call (708) 226-2300 for details onavailable dates and times. LOCATION: Palos Community Hospital, 12251 S. 80th Ave., Palos HeightsCOST: $7.50

Weight ManagementFor additional information, including fees, pleasecall (708) 226-2330.

WeightWiseDiscover a healthy approach to weight managementfor adults who prefer individual attention.Appointments scheduled at your convenience. LOCATION: Primary Care Center, 15300 West Ave., Orland ParkREGISTRATION: (708) 226-2330

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Non-profit OrganizationU.S. Postage

PAIDPalos Community Hospital

12251 S. 80th AvenuePalos Heights, IL 60463

Health care is a family affairfor some doctors whofollowed in their parents’footsteps and becamedoctors in our community.

The Diabetes ProgramServices at Palos helps a Frankfort man regaincontrol of his life after his diagnosis.

PERSPECT!VE!Inside This Issue

Take a Breather for Your HeartToo much tension and stress can harm your heart.With a little guidance and stress management, youcan find your enlightened path to a better well-being.Join Amy Shanahan, a counselor with Palos MedicalGroup’s Behavioral Health team, to learn how to let goof your stress through simple breathing exercises andmeditation to help calm your body and mind.TIME/DATE: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday, February 9LOCATION: Palos Health & Fitness Center, 15430 West Ave., Orland ParkREGISTRATION: Call (708) 226-2300COST: FREE

Travel the Mediterranean for HeartHealthy EatsBenefits of a heart-healthy diet have been shown tohelp with weight management and lower cholesteroland blood pressure levels. Recent research validates adiet based on Mediterranean principles — minimalred meat consumption, sugar and saturated fat, whilehigh in produce, nuts and whole grains. Join JanDowell, a Palos Community Hospital registered

dietitian, to learn how this healthier way of eatingmay help lower your risk of heart disease. TIME/DATE: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday, February 16LOCATION: Palos Community Hospital Auditorium,12251 S. 80th Ave., Palos HeightsREGISTRATION: Call (708) 226-2300COST: FREE

Heart Disease and YouHeart disease is the No. 1 killer in the United States.Some of the major risk factors — high blood pressureand cholesterol, diabetes, obesity and smoking — can be managed through lifestyle changes andmedication. Join Cardiologist Marlon Everett, M.D., to learn how you can take control of your heart health,different warning signs between men and women,when to consult a physician and treatment optionsavailable to help keep you on the right track to a healthier heart.TIME/DATE: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday, February 23LOCATION: Palos Community Hospital Auditorium,12251 S. 80th Ave., Palos HeightsREGISTRATION: Call (708) 226-2300COST: FREE

In recognition of Heart Month, Palos Community Hospital is offering avariety of programs to help you take steps to improve your hearthealth. To register for any Heart Month program, call (708) 226-2300.

February is Heart Month!

The Emergency Departmentat Palos Community Hospitalis being renovated andexpanded. Once completed,it will offer 25,000 squarefeet, representing an $11 million investment tothe community it serves.

February is Heart Month!

Heart Risk ScreeningThere are a lot of factors that contribute toheart disease. Palos offers a screening thatidentifies your risk factors and provides you and your physician with a plan for preventativeheart care.

INFORMATION: For more details, call (708) 226-2300.COST: $99

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