the middle of michigan urgent care maged rizk, william felten, m.d. saves time diehl… ·...

{ I take multiple medications for heart disease, and I worry that it isn’t healthy or natural to take so many different drugs for a prolonged time. Why do I need more than one drug for the same condition, and is there any-thing I can do to get off them?

}Maged Rizk, M.D., Ph.D., interven-tional cardiologist: Your doctor follows es-tablished guidelines and gives you only med-ications that have been proven to improve your symptoms, prevent complications and

prolong your life. You should talk to your doctor about your medications, including any side e� ects or concerns you have, and your doctor will explain why they are pre-scribed. Do not stop taking any medications without your doctor’s knowledge, as it may be dangerous for your health.

{My friend had an artery that was only 70 percent blocked and her doctor put in a stent, but doctors de-cided not to put a stent in my artery that was more than 80 percent blocked. Is there a rule of thumb for when to put in a stent, and wouldn’t it be good preventive medi-cine to do it sooner rather than later?

}William Felten, M.D., intervention-al cardiologist: � e percent of blockage is only one of many considerations in decid-ing whether or not to place a stent. Most important is whether or not the patient has

symptoms. If a blockage is greater than 70 percent and the patient has angina pain while on medication, then a stent will usually be placed. Other considerations in-clude anatomical ndings, such as the location of the blockage, the size of the artery, the presence of heavy cal-ci cation and the tortuosity (the amount of bending) of the vessel.

Placing a stent does not change the natural progression

Rodney Diehl, D.O.

Maged Rizk, M.D., Ph.D.

William Felten, M.D.

Ask your

MidMichigan cardiologists see things differentlyheart disease experts

Urgent care saves time and moneyURGENT CARE is now available at MidMichigan Health Park–Freeland, 5694 Midland Road, adjacent to Freeland SportsZone. MidMichigan Urgent Care provides care with no appointment necessary for illness and minor emergencies, such as:● Cold or � u symptoms, including coughs, sore throats and earaches● Minor cuts and scrapes where bleeding is controlled● Sprains, strains or possible broken bones● Minor burns, rashes or insect bites

� e clinic also o� ers physical exams for work, school or camp. MidMichigan Urgent Care–Freeland is sta� ed by licensed physicians, has on-site lab and X-ray, and accepts

most insurance plans. Open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Walk in or call (989) 695-4999.

WHY CHOOSE URGENT CARE? Urgent care services save time and money compared to using an emergency room for non-life-threatening conditions. However, you should still dial 911 in case of major emergencies, such as warning signs of a heart attack or stroke, un-controlled bleeding, severe burns, high fever or severe abdominal pain.

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES MidMichigan Urgent Care–Freeland also provides occupational health services, such as:● Pre- and post-employment physicals, including De-partment of Transportation (DOT) and hazmat exams● Drug and alcohol testing meeting DOT, National Institute on Drug Abuse and other regulatory protocols● Treatment of work-related injuries● Pulmonary function and respirator t testing● Flu, tetanus and Hepatitis B vaccinations● Workplace wellness programs

To arrange occupational health services for your employees, call (989) 633-1340 or visit www.midmichigan.org/workplace.

MORE HEALTH SERVICES MidMichigan Health Park–Freeland also has primary care physicians, spe-cialty physicians, physical and occupational therapy,

lab, X-ray, and home medical equipment. For information about any of these services, call (989) 695-4950.

of coronary artery disease and should not be considered a preventive measure. Lifestyle changes, such as weight con-trol, a good diet, lowering cholesterol, exercise and quitting smoking are much more important in preventing disease.

{My doctor says I have a hole in my heart (an atrial septal defect). What does that mean and what can be done about it?

}Rodney Diehl, D.O., interventional cardiologist: An atrial septal defect (ASD) is an opening between the upper chambers of the heart (the atria). Some types of ASD are caused by a normal opening in the heart

that doesn’t close like it should at birth. Other types are caused by abnormal fetal development of the heart.

One in ve people has this condition. Unless it is as-sociated with a stroke or pulmonary hypertension, most people can live their entire lives without needing to do anything about it. However, treatment should be con-sidered for: ● People who have a tendency toward blood clots or deep vein thrombosis● � ose who have had a stroke or TIA● People whose profession or hobby exposes them to altitude or pressure extremes, such as divers or mountain climbers

ASD can be treated with a procedure called percuta-neous closure, which is performed in a catheterization lab. A small device called a septal occluder is inserted into the heart using a catheter and is positioned to cover both sides of the opening. In time, the heart’s natural

tissue will grow over the implant, closing up the hole.

Learn more about how MidMichigan cares for your heart at www.midmichigan.org/heart.

4005 Orchard DriveMidland, MI 48670

Nonprofit Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDPlatteville, WIPermit No. 7




Urgent care Urgent care Urgent care ourour

Midland, MI 48670

ourourourourourourourourourourourourourourReaching residents THROUGHOUT THE MIDDLE OF MICHIGAN

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up the hole.

for your heart at

For the 1,000th bariatric surgery patient at MidMichigan Medical Center–Gratiot, Carl Sztuczko, the immediate benefi t of surgery was more energy, which made it easier for him to keep up with the lively students at the school where he works as a principal.

MidMichigan Stratford Village; Mid-Michigan Gladwin Pines; and MidMichigan Home Care are nonpro t health care provid-ers that o� er a variety of services supported by charitable donations.

With current economic challenges, many people throughout the middle of Michi-gan have lost insurance coverage or lack

When Carl Sztuczko, of St. Louis, had Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery in No-vember 2010, he didn’t know he was help-ing MidMichigan Medical Center–Gratiot mark a milestone. Sztuczko was the 1,000th patient to undergo bariatric surgery since the Medical Center began performing the procedures in 2003.

Before surgery, 48-year-old Sztuczko had high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.

“My health was not going the way I wanted,” said Sztuczko. “I needed to do something if I wanted to be able to walk my daughter down the aisle someday.”

Sztuczko’s family doctor helped him explore the possibility of bariatric surgery. “I saw my doctor in August and, a« er dis-cussing the options with him, I attended one of the informational seminars and started the process.”

The right time, the right team Ernest Cudjoe, M.D., performed Sztuczko’s lapa-roscopic surgery.

“I can’t say enough good things about the nurses at the hospital,” said Sztuczko. “� ey are wonderful, friendly and supportive.”

Since rst committing to the process, Sztuczko has lost 70 pounds. “My health has also improved; my bad cholesterol level dropped 60 points since I had the surgery, and my doctor has discontinued my blood

For 1,000th bariatric patient, ‘every day gets better’

People interested in making a charitable impact while receiving tax bene ts at the same time may want to consider contrib-uting to a worthy cause in 2011. Charitable Individual Retirement Account (IRA)

MidMichigan Home Care will host the second annual Butter� ies in the Park event in honor and memory of loved ones. � is heartwarming event includes a memorial presentation and the release of live butter� ies at ve local parks.

� e events will take place at 1 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 14, at the following locations:● Alma—Wright Park, Tracey Band Shell, 520 Park St.● Bay City—Kantzler Arboretum in Veteran’s Park, 301 John F. Kennedy Drive● Clare—Shamrock Park, 225 Wilcox Parkway● Gladwin—Gladwin City Park, 240 S. Cayuga St.● Midland—Stratford Woods, 3922 E.

Butter� ies in the Park honors, remembers loved ones

Paper patient charts are now a thing of the past at MidMichigan Medical Centers in Alma, Clare, Gladwin and Midland. An electronic medical record (EMR) system rolled out in Midland this past March, and MidMichigan’s other Medical Centers will come online this summer. � e EMR allows patients to have a single, secure electronic medical record across all MidMichigan hospital services and locations.

“� e EMR is a tool that will help us continue to provide the excellent care our community has come to expect from MidMichigan Health,” said RichardM. Reynolds, president and CEO of MidMichigan Health. “It further enhances our technology and contributes to our mis-sion of providing excellent health services to improve the quality of life for people in our communities.”

An EMR has many bene ts, but the most important are increased patient safety and quality of care.

“With the EMR, patients will have one record that will follow their care,” said Gregory H. Rogers, MidMichigan Medi-cal Center–Midland president and EMR project co-sponsor with Karen Calkins. “Patients will recognize the EMR’s e± -ciency when their health care providers no longer have to spend time tracking down their chart. Real-time access to the

patient’s record is available, giving the right information to the right caregiver at the right time.”

What it has to offer Additional bene ts of EMR include:● Improved legibility, accuracy and completeness● Printed discharge summaries given to patients upon request● No need for patients to repeat their medical history, medication history and/or insurance information many times during a hospitalization

Patient con dentiality is protected by the EMR. � e only people who have access to a patient’s medical chart are those who must view it to provide care. Additionally, following the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) patient privacy guidelines, EMR access is regularly monitored.

By the end of 2011, the EMR at MidMichigan Health will include the com-puterized physician order entry, which means all patient orders, prescriptions and care instructions will be recorded electronically.

Plans have been developed to roll out a physician EMR in both employed and private physicians’ practices by the rst quarter of 2012.

legislation has been extended and will be in e� ect until Dec. 31. � e legislation al-lows donors age 70½ or older to transfer up to $100,000 per year from their IRA to a charity without having to pay income taxes on the money.

MidMichigan Health’s Medical Centers in Alma, Clare, Gladwin and Midland;

Leaving a legacy

E L E C T R O N I C M E D I C A L R E C O R D S

Know the bene� ts

adequate coverage. Generous donations from the community allow MidMichigan Health a± liates to provide services to people in need of nancial assistance.

To speak with the fund development co-ordinator about making a gi« to a MidMichigan Health a± liate, call (989) 839-3342.

Ashman St.Each donation of $25 will release a butter-

� y in a loved one’s memory or honor. If you would like to purchase a butter� y or would like more information about this event,

call MidMichigan Home Care toll-free at (800) 862-5002 or visit www.midmichigan.org/homecare.

pressure medication,” he said. “I will be totally o� all diabetes medication in the next couple months.

“I’m very happy with the results so far,” said Sztuczko. He said that his wife is pleased with the results, although she has to keep shopping for new clothes for him. “I’m down three pant sizes so far,” he said. Sztuczko has about 30 pounds to lose to meet his goal.

“We have a great medical center here in Gratiot County,” said Sztuczko. “� e physicians and the entire bariatric team are great. � ey did a very good job preparing me for the process and the surgery so that there were no surprises.”

Reaping the rewards Sztuczko reminds people that the procedure is not a stand-alone event. “People considering bariat-ric surgery must be prepared to take the process seriously and be willing to com-mit to a lifelong lifestyle change before surgery,” he said.

For Sztuczko, that commitment paid o� . “I feel great, and every day gets better.”

Bariatric surgery is also offered at MidMichigan Medical Center–Midland.

To learn more or for a list of upcoming seminar dates, call MidMichigan Health Line toll-free at (800) 999-3199 or visit

www.midmichigan.org/bariatrics.

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MidMichigan Medical Center–Midland reached a major milestone in its Harlow Building expansion and renovation project with the successful opening of a new 23-room Surgery Unit and six of the most technologically advanced operating rooms in the region in December 2010. Here, Terry O’Hora, R.N., B.S.N., orthopaedic specialty coordinator, showcases the operating rooms integration, Skytron boom systems and Aurora LED surgical lights.

Be sure to look for Scout’s friendly face on all temporary construc-tion signs. Scout will con-tinue to guide you through the parking, entrance and route changes both inside and out of the Medical Center.

Urolog ist Kar la Witzke, D.O., re-cently joined Tri City Urology in Midland and Mt. Pleasant. Dr. Witzke treats both male and fe-male patients with urologic problems, including urinary incontinence, dif-

culty urinating, pelvic organ prolapse, sexual dysfunction, erectile dysfunction, benign prostatic hyperplasia, kidney stones and pelvic pain. She also treats pa-tients with urologic cancers such as those

It takes a team of skilled professionals to de-liver high-quality health care. Physician as-sistants (PAs) and nurse practitioners (NPs) are vital members of health care teams.

Nationwide, PAs and NPs, or mid-level practitioners, have been providing care for more than 40 years. � e roles were rst developed in the 1960s to ll a need cre-ated by a shortage of physicians. In fact, the rst PAs were military medics who had experience in critical care and emergency medicine while on active duty.

“Today, with the demand for health care services again outpacing the number of physicians available, PAs and NPs are helping ll the void,” said Jim Bicknell, M.D., president of the MidMichigan Health Physician Enterprise. “Working together with physicians, PAs and NPs ensure that health care is available when it is needed.”

A wide range of services PAs and NPs work directly with patients under the supervision of a physician. � ey deliver a wide range of services, including diag-nosing and treating illness, conducting physical exams, ordering and interpreting tests, and—in most states—prescribing medications.

Both PAs and NPs can be the primary health care provider for individuals and families. Physicians who have a PA or NP on their team know that they are quali ed to perform up to 80 percent of primary and preventive care. Many people prefer having a PA or NP as a primary care provider be-cause of their commitment to education and individualized care. � ey also have greater availability and can spend more one-on-one time with patients. A physician is always available for a consult when necessary.

Carolyn Montgomery, P.A.-C., of MidMichigan Physicians Group, is one of many physician assistants providing high-quality, timely health care for individuals and families.

P H Y S I C IA N A S S I S TA N T S A N D N U R S E P R AC T I T I O N E R S

Providing quality, timely care

The g rand op ening of t he ne w 280,000-square-foot patient tower and lobby at MidMichigan Medical Center–Midland is expected this December. � e project is ahead of schedule and under budget since groundbreaking in April 2008.

� e addition will continue to open in stages, a« er new operating rooms and surgical patient preoperative and recovery areas opened in December 2010. � ese state-of-the art, high-tech areas now sup-port MidMichigan’s capabilities for pro-viding general surgery, bariatric surgery, neurosurgery and cardiothoracic surgery.

Vice President Mike Erickson, who leads the expansion team, said other new and renovated areas could be complete as early as Sept. 15 and open as early as Oct. 1. � ese will include 22 patient rooms, con-sisting of eight critical care rooms and 14 progressive care rooms, areas of invasive imaging, and the surgical services wait-ing room.

Exterior changes on the horizon Other signals that the project is winding down included the removal of the 8-foot-high wooden privacy fence and covered pedes-trian walkway around the construction zone this spring. Next, the Harlow Drive entrance to the MidMichigan campus will be closed from the beginning of July

Expansion ahead of schedule, changes on the horizon

MidMichigan welcomes Karla Witzke, D.O.

Urologist Karla Witzke, D.O.MidMichigan Home Care will hold the « h

annual Spring Hospice Luncheon at noon on Friday, May 20, at the Midland Country Club, 1120 W. Saint Andrews Road, in Midland.

� is event combines a delicious meal with a brief presentation featuring the heartwarming stories of patients, sta�

S AV E T H E DAT E F R I DAY, M AY 2 0

Spring Hospice Luncheon

Intensive education Just like physicians, PAs and NPs must complete higher-level education and intense clinical training. NPs are registered nurses who go on to complete a master’s-level program. PAs must complete a master of science pro-gram in physician assistant studies at an accredited school.

Both PAs and NPs must pass licensing exams before they can practice medicine. PAs and NPs may also be certi ed by the National Commission on Certi cation of Physician Assistants. To maintain certi ca-tion, both must ful ll continuing education requirements.

For information about PAs and NPs associated with MidMichigan Health in Alma, Clare, Gladwin, Midland, Mt. Pleasant and throughout the region, visit

www.midmichigan.org/doctorsor call MidMichigan Health toll-free at (800) 999-3199.

through mid-August while the Sugnet Road lane is added. During the road construction, tra± c will be routed to the entrances o� of Orchard Drive and Saginaw Road.

Also in July, the temporary hospital en-trance will be shi« ed just north of its cur-rent location. Updated campus directional signs with Scout, the construction mascot, will lead patients and visitors to the new short-term entrance, which will continue to feature a distinctive green canopy.

“In addition to all of this, a lot of work is also coming up on the Spiritual Care Center and MidMichigan Home Care area, the Health Sciences Library, and the Gi« Shop,” said Erickson. “Construction on the Gi« Shop, which closed this spring and reopened in a temporary location in the for-mer Harlow Building Lobby, will take about

four months to build, with opening anticipated in fall.”

Learn more about the prog-ress of the expansion project at

www.midmichigan.org/construction.

and volunteers of the MidMichigan Home Care hospice program. Tickets may be purchased in advance for $65.

To purchase tickets or to sponsor a table in memory of a loved one, call MidMichigan Home Care toll-free at (800) 862-5002.

of the prostate, kidney, bladder, testicles and adrenal glands.

Dr. Witzke has a special interest in female urology, a eld that encompasses urinary incontinence, pelvic organ pro-lapse and sexual dysfunction. She said a variety of methods—including physical therapy, biofeedback, medication, surgery and other treatments—can be combined to help patients have a better quality of life.

Dr. Witzke sees patients in Midland and Mt. Pleasant. She welcomes new

patients with a physician referral. For more informa-tion about Dr. Witzke, visit www.midmichigan.org/doctors.


COMMUNITY OUTREACHMidMichigan Health presents Good for You events to help you truly live well. We provide free health screenings and inter-active educational booths on a variety of health topics.

Mt. Pleasant Community Health Fair (Mt. Pleasant)■ Saturday, May 14, 8–10 a.m., MidMichigan Health Park–Mt. Pleasant

MidMichigan Health Fair at the Dow RunWalk(Midland) ■ Saturday, June 4, 8–11:30 a.m., Midland Curling Center

Healthy Living with Style (Houghton Lake)■ Wednesday, June 15, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., Atrium Plaza Hotel (adjacent to the intersection of U.S. Highway 27 and M-55)

Sugar Springs Health Fair (Gladwin)■ Friday, June 10, 10 a.m.–noon, Sugar Springs Property Owners Building, Gladwin

Diabetes Expo (Clare)■ Wednesday, August 31, 9 a.m.–noon, MidMichigan Medical Center–Clare

The social media revolution continues to change the way people communicate, and MidMichigan Health is taking an active part in the conversation.

www.facebook.com/midmichigan

Like MidMichigan Health on Facebook to view photos, watch videos, and learn about our services and events.

www.twitter.com/midmichigan

You can also follow MidMichigan on Twitter (@midmichigan), where we tweet about the news and developments at af� liates throughout the health system.

www.youtube.com/midmichiganhealth

MidMichigan has a YouTube channel where you can view commercials, clips about our history and videos geared toward recruiting new team members. Share these videos with your friends, and click “Subscribe” to be noti� ed about new uploads.

We’ve gone social! Connect with MidMichigan Health

It’s never been so easy to learn what’s new at MidMichigan Health. Connect with us now!

SPECIAL EVENTSLiving Without LimitsJoin “Iron Andy” Holder as he discusses what it’s like to be a triathlete with diabe-tes and how having a chronic condition does not have to limit what a person can do with his or her life. Andy has traveled around the country since 2006, encourag-ing others in “Living Without Limits,” a national campaign to motivate those with chronic conditions to manage their health and strive for their dreams. His uplifting journey has inspired many people to better manage their health or to even compete in triathlons, just like Andy. ■ Thursday, June 2, 6–8 p.m., MidMichigan Medical Offi ces–Midland, Towsley Auditorium

Cancer Survivors DaySurviving cancer is a great accomplish-ment. Whether it has been days, months or years since the diagnosis, it’s time to celebrate life. Cancer survivors—along with their family, friends and caregivers—are encouraged to join us for a fun-� lled event that includes an ice cream social, musical entertainment, inspirational messages and a butter� y release. Please register by Wednesday, June 1.■ Sunday, June 5, 1:30–3:30 p.m., MidMichigan Gratiot Cancer Center ■ Sunday, June 12, 2–4 p.m., MidMichigan Medical Offi ces–Midland, Healing Arts Gallery

FAMILY HEALTH EDUCATION Call for dates, times, locations and costs.

Baby Care Boot Camp(Midland)

Breastfeeding: Healthy Beginnings (Alma, Midland)

Heartsaver CPR (Clare, Gladwin)

Infant and Child CPR (Midland)

Older Brother/Older Sister (Alma, Midland)

Preparation for Childbirth (Alma, Midland)

Refresher Childbirth (Alma)

HEALTH AND WELLNESS EDUCATIONCall for dates, times, locations and costs.

Am I Hungry? This weight-management workshop teaches intuitive eating by empowering you to re-learn to use your natural ability to eat just the right amount of food and meet other needs in more productive ways than eating.

Bariatric Surgery Options Learn about laparoscopic weight-loss sur-gery and how it can improve your health and your life. Bariatric surgeons will high-light laparoscopic Roux-en-Y, adjustable banding and sleeve gastrectomy surgical options.

Diabetes Education Classes (Alma, Clare, Gladwin, Midland)Learn how to better manage your diabetes care in these classes. Please note that diabetes training is covered by most insur-ance. Contact your insurance carrier for speci� c information.

Steps to Healthy Living: Reduce Your Diabetes RiskBeing overweight, inactive or having a fam-ily history of diabetes increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, which now affects 24 million Americans. This three-week weight management and activity pro-gram is for people who want to decrease this risk. Participants will work each week with a certi� ed diabetes educator to help them make lifestyle changes. To register, call Central Scheduling at (989) 466-3295.■ Tuesdays, June 7, 14, 21, 6–7:30 p.m., MidMichigan Medical Offi ces–Midland, Towsley Conference Room ■ Thursdays, July 21, 28, 3–4:30 p.m., MidMichigan Medical Center–Gratiot Conference Room 1161A■ Tuesdays, August 2, 9, 16, 3:30–5 p.m., MidMichigan Medical Offi ces–Midland, Towsley Conference Room

Wellness Coaching(Midland)

WOW!This medically supervised program is de-signed for people seeking weight loss and who want to feel better and live healthier. This four-month program can improve your quality of life and help you eliminate or control many health risks associated with being overweight.

ourourTO YOUR HEALTH is published as a community service by MIDMICHIGAN HEALTH, 4005 Orchard Drive, Midland, MI 48670, (989) 839-3000.

Information in TO YOUR HEALTH comes from a wide range of medical experts. If you have any concerns or questions about speci� c content that may affect your health, please contact your health care provider. Models may be used in photos and illustrations.

Copyright © 2011 Coffey Communications, Inc. HST26566h

2011 MIDMICHIGAN HEALTH BOARD OF DIRECTORS Bill Henderson, Chair ● Eric Blackhurst, Vice Chair ● Jeff Allen, M.D. ● Bobbie Arnold ● Phil Caffrey ● Joan David ● Bob DeNooyer ● Nancy Gallagher ● Bill Heinze ● Margueritte Kuhn, M.D. ● Rick Reynolds, President ● Ranny Riecker ● Ed Rogers ● Carl Schwind ● Don Sheets ● Ron Verch ● Bill Weideman

EDITORIAL BOARD Donna Rapp, Senior Vice President ● Millie Jezior, Editor ● Angela Nader, Production Assistant ● James Bicknell IV, M.D., Physician Advisor

CONTRIBUTORS Carrie Breault ● Warren Johnson ● Christie Kanitz ● Stephanie Leibfritz, R.N. ● Rachel Pelton ● Carlene Skorczewski ● Bernadette Stocking ● Matt Streitmatter ● Megan Yezak

This issue of To Your Health was printed on 100 percent recycled paper.

Unless otherwise noted, programs are free.

HEALTHPaths to good May

JuneJulyAugust

Call MidMichigan Health Line for help � nding a physician, for directions to any of our af� liate locations or to report duplicate mailings of To Your Health. If you need special arrangements to attend any of our classes, please let us know ahead of time and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

Call MidMichigan Health Line at (989) 837-9090 or toll-free at (800) 999-3199.

Visit our Web site at www.midmichigan.org/classes.Visit our Web site at www.midmichigan.org/classeswww.midmichigan.org/classes

DORIS JUECKSTOCK, of Clare, is 74 and active. You might even � nd her kicking a ball around with her grandson. In the past year or so, though, Jueckstock noticed her right thigh becoming numb.

“No matter what I did, my leg would be numb most of the time,” she said, “and I would develop cramps in my foot.”

� e artery that delivers blood to Jueckstock’s right leg was 90 percent closed by plaque, a condition called pe-ripheral arterial disease (PAD). Without help, she might have seen her independence in jeopardy.

Fortunately, Interventional Cardiologist Karl Duncan, M.D., saw things di� erently. He restored vital circulation to Jueckstock’s right leg so that she could go on taking care of herself and helping her family. � e procedure that im-proved Jueckstock’s circulation took place at MidMichiganMedical Center–Midland, but her � rst and follow-up appointments with Dr. Duncan were right here in Clare.

“Dr. Duncan comes to his o� ce in Clare a couple of times a week,” said Jueckstock. “I like to have doctor visits close to home so that I can drive myself, and my daughter doesn’t have to take o� work.”

A MEETING OF MINDS Jueckstock liked Dr. Duncan right away.

“When I met him, he walked over and shook my hand,” she said. “He started talking to me and made me feel like I’d known him forever.”

She also said the nursing sta� and surgical team were very helpful when she came in for her procedure in the state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization lab.

“Everybody was sweet and wonderful and did a good job,” said Jueckstock. “� ey just made us feel at home. I’d recommend any of them.”

During the procedure, Jueckstock had conscious seda-tion, which allowed her to be aware of her surroundings but not feel any pain.

For the angiogram, Dr. Duncan inserted a thin, � exible tube called a catheter into a blood vessel in Jueckstock’s leg and then moved a small, collapsed balloon along the cath-eter to the area that was blocked. He expanded the balloon to widen the blood vessel, then collapsed and removed it.

Dr. Duncan was also able to remove plaque from some of Jueckstock’s blood vessels using a device called the

Moving more comfortablyTreating PAD brings relief from leg numbness and cramps

—Continued on page 3






symptoms. If a blockage is greater than 70 percent and the patient has angina pain while on medication, then a stent will usually be placed. Other considerations in-clude anatomical � ndings, such as the location of the blockage, the size of the artery, the presence of heavy cal-ci� cation and the tortuosity (the amount of bending) of the vessel.


Rodney Diehl, D.O.



Ask your






One in � ve people has this condition. Unless it is as-sociated with a stroke or pulmonary hypertension, most people can live their entire lives without needing to do anything about it. However, treatment should be con-sidered for: ● People who have a tendency toward blood clots or deep vein thrombosis● � ose who have had a stroke or TIA● People whose profession or hobby exposes them to altitude or pressure extremes, such as divers or mountain climbers










Moving more Moving more Moving more ourourourourourourourourourourourourourourourour

Health news from MIDMICHIGAN MEDICAL CENTER–CLARE

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Nurse Practitioner Kurt Boyd is wel-coming patients of all ages to his prac-tice at MidMichigan Medical Offices–Harrison. He is in practice with Family Medicine Physician Carrie B. Nicholson, M.D.

Diamondback 360* PAD system. A« er the procedure, a test called a lower extremity arterial Doppler ultrasound showed that the blood � ow in Jueckstock’s leg had im-proved signi� cantly.

HAPPY EVER AFTER These days, Jueckstock credits Dr. Duncan’s work with helping her get around with much more ease and comfort.

“I praise him up and down, no matter where I go,” she said. “I pass out his cards. I trust Dr. Duncan, and I trust my life in his hands.”

Jueckstock’s story is just one example of how MidMichigan physicians help their patients by seeing things di� erently. Learn more about how MidMichigan

Kurt Boyd, N.P.

MidMichigan Med-ical Center–Clare provides 24-hour emergency care.

“Emergency de-partments are set up and sta� ed to save lives that are in im-mediate danger,” said Paul N. DeWeese, M.D., emergency

medicine physician at the Medical Center. “A life-threatening situation is an emer-gency; so is a situation that requires fast action to stop further damage or prevent irreversible damage to the patient.”

Dr. DeWeese said that anyone show-ing signs of a stroke or heart attack needs emergency medical attention.

Paul N. DeWeese, M.D.

When seconds count, you can count on the ER

MidMichigan welcomes new provider

“Unless we can treat the patient quickly, heart attacks can cause irreparable dam-age,” he said. “While newer treatments can minimize damage from stroke, they have to be delivered quickly. Know the warning signs.”

Signs of a heart attack include:● Chest pain or a heavy, crushing sensa-tion in the chest ● Di� culty breathing or shortness of breath ● Dizziness ● Heavy sweating ● Indigestion ● Pain radiating from the heart to the arm, jaw, neck, back or shoulders

Signs of a stroke include:● Crooked smile ● Uneven reach

Moving more comfortably—Continued from page 1

● Abnormal speech or inability to speak ● Fainting ● Sudden dizziness, weakness or loss of balance or coordination ● Sudden blurred vision ● Sudden, severe headache

Other emergencies include:● Bleeding that won’t stop ● Coughing up or vomiting blood ● Severe burns ● Severe abdominal pain● Injury with uncontrolled bleeding

Dr. DeWeese urges people to call 911 in an emergency. “Paramedics are trained to quickly assess a patient’s condition and start treatment while they are on the way to the ER.”

In situations where ambulance service is not available, Dr. DeWeese suggests

people be prepared and make a point of locating the closest emergency or urgent care center. “Remember, in an emergency, time matters,” he said. “Know where to go for help.”

Because emergency rooms are sta� ed and equipped to handle any medical need, ERs are expensive to operate, treatment costs more and patients o« en experience long wait times.

“True emergency cases are always given priority,” Dr. DeWeese said. “A heart attack patient will always be treated ahead of someone with a sprained ankle. For non-emergencies, your � rst stop for treatment should be your family doctor,” he said. “A« er hours, consider an urgent care center. You don’t need an appointment, plus they have X-ray and laboratory facilities on-site. � ey would o� er you the same treatment as the ER, but you will pay less and may be treated more quickly.”

doctors see things dif ferently at www.midmichigan.org/difference. For more information or a physician referral, call MidMichigan Health Line toll-free

at (800) 999-3199 or visit www.midmichigan.org/doctors.

*Diamondback 360 is a registered trademark of Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.

Boyd holds a master of science degree in family nurse practitioner studies from Saginaw Valley State University. He is also trained and licensed as an emergency medical technician/paramedic and is a registered nurse. Boyd’s face is familiar to many people in the area because for the past several years he has worked as a nurse in the Emergency Department at MidMichigan Medical Center–Clare.

Boyd specializes in family medicine and provides preventive care and treatment as well as ongoing care for people with chronic medical conditions.

For more information about Boyd or other MidMichigan providers, call MidMichigan Health Line toll-free at (800) 999-3199or visit www.midmichigan.org.


Nationwide, PAs and NPs, or mid-level practitioners, have been providing care for more than 40 years. � e roles were � rst developed in the 1960s to � ll a need cre-ated by a shortage of physicians. In fact, the � rst PAs were military medics who had experience in critical care and emergency medicine while on active duty.

“Today, with the demand for health care services again outpacing the number of physicians available, PAs and NPs are helping � ll the void,” said Jim Bicknell, M.D., president of the MidMichigan Health Physician Enterprise. “Working together with physicians, PAs and NPs ensure that health care is available when it is needed.”


Both PAs and NPs can be the primary health care provider for individuals and families. Physicians who have a PA or NP on their team know that they are quali� ed to perform up to 80 percent of primary and preventive care. Many people prefer having a PA or NP as a primary care provider be-cause of their commitment to education and individualized care. � ey also have greater availability and can spend more one-on-one time with patients. A physician is always available for a consult when necessary.

Renee Doherty, F.N.P., is one of many nurse practitioners with MidMichigan Health providing high-quality, timely health care for individuals and families.


Providing quality, timely careIntensive education Just like physicians, PAs and NPs must complete higher-level education and intense clinical training. NPs are registered nurses who go on to complete a master’s-level program. PAs must complete a master of science pro-gram in physician assistant studies at an accredited school.

Both PAs and NPs must pass licensing exams before they can practice medicine. PAs and NPs may also be certi� ed by the National Commission on Certi� cation of Physician Assistants. To maintain certi� ca-tion, both must ful� ll continuing education requirements.




Improving community health

Walking our way to health TO ENCOURAGE HEALTHY behaviors that can help to prevent both heart disease and other chronic illnesses, MidMichigan Medical Center–Gladwin is developing the Walking Our Way to Health program, a community health improvement project.

� e overall goal of the program is to improve the health of the community, including employees of the Medical Center and MidMichigan Gladwin Pines, by increasing moderate physical activity among community members. � is will be accomplished with a three-way approach.

First, the project will build community support by establishing a coordinating committee composed of MidMichigan Medical Center–Gladwin personnel and representatives from area agencies, local government and local businesses. Second, a combined walking and nature trail will be expanded to extend from the Medical Center to the city’s trail system. � ird, the Medical Center will sponsor and promote various motivational activities, such as health events, education, a � tness campaign and participation incentives that will occur at the Medical Center and at public and private work sites.

Walking Our Way to Health is supported by grants from the State of Michigan, the Gladwin County Endow-ment Fund at the Midland Area Community Founda-tion and the Midland Area Community Foundation Unrestricted Endowment Fund. � e Midland Area Community Foundation strengthens the community by providing leadership, fostering collaboration on local needs and issues, and encouraging a legacy of giving through grants, scholarships and events.

If you would like more information about the Walking Our Way to Health program, call MidMichigan Medical Center–Gladwin at(989) 246-6291.








Rodney Diehl, D.O.



Ask your













ourourMidland, MI 48670

ourourourourourourourourourourourourourourHealth news for residents of GLADWIN COUNTY

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surgery, arti� cial disks, laser spine surgery, spinal cord stimulation, X-Stop surgery, vertebral kyphoplasty, nonoperative spine treatment, degenerative scoliosis and ca-rotid endarterectomy.

Dr. Dardas and Dr. Ma perform many procedures, including nerve conduc-

tion studies and electromyograms (EMG). An EMG is a test used to record the electrical activ-ity of muscles. � e test can be used to detect abnor-mal electrical activ-ity of muscles that can occur in many

Tom Cummins, 68, may have retired a¥ er a long career in sales, but he is still hard at work as a volunteer. � e Pratt Lake resident serves on the board of directors for United Way and works with several other nonpro� t groups.

A¥ er undergoing two surgeries last September, Cummins needed help to re-gain his strength and needed someone to administer a specialized antibiotic regi-men. He turned to MidMichigan Gladwin Pines for help.

“I chose Gladwin Pines � rst of all be-cause it’s close to home,” said Cummins. “Plus, the hospital is right next door.”

His therapists at Gladwin Pines devel-oped a personalized program of occupa-tional and physical therapy to help him regain his strength and balance.

“Going to therapy is like going to the dentist—you don’t go there to be comfort-able, you go there to get things � xed,” he said. “However, it’s nice to be treated well while you are getting well, and the quality of care at Gladwin Pines is outstanding. All my one-on-one interaction with the people there was positive. Everyone was attentive, courteous, helpful and pleasant.”

Cummins feels the structured reha-bilitation program helped him with his recovery. “I don’t think I could have done the rehabilitation on my own, particularly when you consider that I had to have anti-biotics administered as well,” he said.

A¥ er leaving MidMichigan Gladwin Pines, Cummins continued to work to maintain his strength by using the cardiac rehabilitation facility at MidMichigan Medical Center–Gladwin.

“From the beginning, my goal was to get back on my feet and get back home,”

Neurosurgeon Mark Adams, M.D., and Neurologists Gregory Dardas, M.D., and Meihui Ma, M.D., of MidMichigan Physicians Group, now see patients at MidMichigan Medical O ̄ ces–Gladwin.

Dr. Adams specializes in complex and minimally invasive spinal surgery, back

Neurosurgeon Mark Adams, M.D.

Neurologist Meihui Ma, M.D.

Neurologist Gregory Dardas, M.D.

UP AND AT ’EM: Specialized care provided by MidMichigan Gladwin Pines helped retiree Tom Cummins, of Pratt Lake, get back on his feet and back to work.

S P E C IA L I Z E D C A R E

Back on his feet, back to work

Welcoming brain specialists to Gladwin

Nicole Clark, P.A.-C., and Shaun Clarke, P.A.-C., are certifi ed physician assistants with MidMichigan Physicians Group who specialize in family medicine and provide preventive care and ongoing management of chronic medical conditions. They welcome new patients of all ages to their practices in Gladwin.

said Cummins. “� at was the therapists’ goal too, and the experience worked out well for me. Without exception, if I needed short-term therapy again, I’d go back to Gladwin Pines in a heartbeat.”

Is it right for you? MidMichigan Glad-win Pines o� ers short-term rehabilita-tion with specially trained sta� devoted exclusively to helping short-term reha-bilitation patients reach their maximum potential and return home. � e reha-bilitation and long-term care facility is connected to MidMichigan Medical

Center–Gladwin. For more details or to schedule a tour, call (989) 426-3430 or visit www.midmichigan.org/pines.

diseases and conditions, such as muscu-lar dystrophy, in ̈ammation of muscles, pinched nerves, peripheral nerve damage, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease) and more.

In addition to Gladwin, Dr. Adams sees patients in Midland and Saginaw. For more information about Dr. Adams, call (989) 753-4000. Dr. Dardas also sees patients in Auburn, Freeland, Midland and West Branch, and Dr. Ma sees patients in Clare, Midland and Houghton Lake.

For physician referral information or to learn more about specialists with of-

fice hours in Gladwin, call MidMichigan Health Line toll-free at (800) 999-3199 or visit www.midmichigan.org/doctors.





Both PAs and NPs can be the primary health care provider for individuals and families. Physicians who have a PA or NP on their team know that they are quali� ed to perform up to 80 percent of primary and preventive care. Many people prefer hav-ing a PA or NP as a primary care provider because of their commitment to education and individualized care. � ey also have greater availability and can spend more one-on-one time with patients. A physi-cian is always available for a consult when necessary.







MEDICAL CENTER CHANGES NAME

Call us your medical centerIN MARCH, Gratiot Medical Center changed its name to MidMichigan Medical Center–Gratiot.

“We feel that this new name best re� ects that we are an integral part of MidMichigan Health,” said Mark Bush, president and CEO of MidMichigan Medical Center–Gratiot. “Moving ahead with a single brand identity will make it easier for patients to identify any MidMichigan a liate, service or health care resource. Looking forward, we will continue to enhance and expand our programs and services to meet the health care needs of our com-munity while continuing to deliver excellent patient care.”

The Medical Center began its partnership with MidMichigan Health in 2000, when it joined MidMichigan Medical Center–Midland in forming MidMichigan Gratiot Cancer Center in Alma. � e partnership helped pave the way for the Medical Center to become a full MidMichigan Health a liate in 2005.

Since the a liation, the Medical Center has completed a $56 million construction project, which included a state-of-the-art Emergency Department and a new four-story patient care tower. � e patient care tower was completed in October 2008 and houses 120 private patient rooms. A freestanding urgent care center, located directly across the street from the Medical Center, was also added to

the campus.For more information on MidMichigan

Health, visit www.midmichigan.org/about.








Rodney Diehl, D.O.



Ask your
















Health news for residents of GRATIOT AND MONTCALM COUNTIES

MEDICAL CENTER

Health news for residents ofGRATIOT AND MONTCALM COUNTIES

MEDICAL CENTER MEDICAL CENTER

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Cholesterol is es-sential to life. Pro-duced in the liver, it is found in every cell in your body, but as blood choles-terol rises, so does the risk of heart disease or stroke.

“ H i g h b l o o d cholesterol does not produce symptoms, but it can be measured with a simple blood test,” said Internal Medicine Physi-cian Adriss Faraj, M.D., of Alma. “People need to have their cholesterol checked be-ginning at age 20. Since cholesterol levels tend to rise as we age, it is important to continue testing, at least every � ve years.”

Dr. Faraj said people are more likely to have high cholesterol if members of their family have it, if they are overweight or if they eat a lot of fatty foods. “If someone has high blood cholesterol along with other risk factors, they face a greater chance of developing heart disease,” he said.

“We cannot control what we inherited, but we can control our behavior,” said Dr. Faraj. “� e � rst step is to know your num-bers. � e second step is to work on getting your numbers where they belong.”

Prevention: first line of defense Diet plays a major role in achieving and main-taining an optimal cholesterol level.

“To improve cholesterol numbers, you should eat fewer high-fat meat and dairy products and eat more fruits, vegetables and whole grains,” said Dr. Faraj. “� e

Findservices near you

Adriss Faraj, M.D.

K N O W YO U R N U M B E R S

A good start to a healthy heart

O U T PAT I E N T L A B A N D D IAG N O S T I C I M AG I N G

less saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol consumed the better, as all three have been shown to raise LDL levels.”

Dr. Faraj added that regular physical activity may not only lower LDL choles-terol, but it may also increase the level of good HDL cholesterol.

“Regular activity also helps the car-diovascular system and aids weight loss,” he said. “Losing even 5 to 10 pounds of excess weight can help lower total choles-terol levels.”

Dr. Faraj sees adult patients at his o ce at 200 W. Center St. in Alma. To make an ap-pointment, call (989) 463-5876. For more in-

formation about Dr. Faraj, visit www.midmichigan.org/doctorsor call MidMichigan Health Line toll-free at (800) 999-3199.

MidMichigan Medical Center–Gratiot o� ers conve-nient outpatient laboratory and diagnostic imaging services at these Alma, Edmore and Ithaca loca-tions. For more informa-tion about these services, call MidMichigan Health

Line toll-free at (800) 999-3199.






Scott Kastning, P.A.-C., is one of many certifi ed physician assistants with MidMichigan Medical Center–Gratiot providing high-quality, timely care to individuals and families throughout Gratiot and Montcalm Counties.







A RELAXING ATMOSPHERE

New, dedicated mammography suiteTO ENSURE THAT women have access to the lat-est technology for early detection of breast cancer, MidMichigan Medical Center–Gratiot recently expanded its digital mammography services to Mt. Pleasant by opening a new dedicated digital mammography suite at the Crapo Professional Building located at 211 S. Crapo St.

� is new location o� ers a relaxing atmosphere, in-cluding a waiting area with a loveseat and oversized lounge chairs, a mini-kitchenette equipped with a co� ee brewing station, a massage chair to help relieve tension, and a streamlined registration process to help ensure a stress-free experience.

Additionally, the digital technology o� ered at this loca-tion provides advanced imaging resolution to detect subtle breast tissue changes, ultimately enhancing the ability to detect breast cancer early. Digital mammography is now o� ered throughout MidMichigan Health with additional locations in Alma, Clare, Gladwin and Midland.

To schedule a mammogram at this new Mt. Pleasant location, please ask your doctor for a physician order, then

call (989) 773-2081 to schedule an appoint-ment. For more information on digital mam-mography, visit www.midmichigan.org/breast.








Rodney Diehl, D.O.



Ask your
















A RELAXING ATMOSPHERE A RELAXING ATMOSPHERE A RELAXING ATMOSPHERE

ourourMidland, MI 48670

ourourourourourourourourourourourourourourHealth news for residents of ISABELLA COUNTY

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Joe Schutt, 62, of Mt. Pleasant, likes to work and stay � t. “I haul hay and straw on my family’s farm to stay strong,” he said. “I’m also a trustee with the Eagles Club here in town. I help with the food and bartending, cleanup and sidewalks. I work hard in the summer, then in the winter, I slow down.”

Except in February of 2010: � at winter, even though Schutt slowed down, his heart kept racing. “My heart was beating out of time,” he said. “It would beat real fast and then slow down. When that happened, it made me feel very weak. It hit me hard.”

Schutt’s family medicine physician referred him right away to Interventional Cardiologist Rodney Diehl, D.O. At his Mt. Pleasant o ̄ ce, Dr. Diehl was able to perform a test that pointed to atrial � bril-lation as the cause of Schutt’s irregular heart rhythm. During atrial � brillation, the heart’s upper chambers are ine� ec-tive at pumping out blood, which creates a risk for stroke.

Driving to Midland, not Ann Arbor Twice before, in 1974 and 2008, Schutt had heart problems that required him to travel two hours from Mt. Pleasant to Ann Arbor for care. For a sophisticated procedure that could restore his normal heart rhythm, he might have been looking at the same long trip.

But Schutt’s MidMichigan doctors saw things di� erently.

“When Dr. Diehl realized my problem was going to be serious, he sent me to MidMichigan Medical Center–Midland,” said Schutt.

At the Medical Center’s Electrophysi-ology Lab, Schutt had cardiac catheter

O U T PAT I E N T L A B A N D D IAG N O S T I C I M AG I N G

Find services near youMidMichigan Health o� ers convenient outpatient laboratory and diagnostic imaging services at the following Mt. Pleasant locations. For more information about these services, call MidMichigan Health Line toll-free at (800) 999-3199.

MidMichigan Health o� ers convenient outpatient laboratory and diagnostic imaging services at the following Mt. Pleasant locations. For more information

Mt. Pleasant resident Joe Schutt didn’t need to travel far for diagno-sis, treatment, and follow-up for a heart condition. With expert physi-cians and state-of-the-art technology through MidMichigan Health, Schutt stayed close to home.

He likes having heart care near homeDiagnosis and follow-up were right in Mt. Pleasant

ablation. Electrophysiologist Nilofar Islam, M.D., used a 3-D Cardio Mapping System and a tiny catheter inserted through a blood vessel in Schutt’s groin to � nd and eliminate the small electrical malfunction in his heart.

Schutt’s daughter drove him to the Med-ical Center in Midland for an overnight stay, and Schutt was able to have a proce-dure that restored the regular beat of his heart without having to go on medication.

Convenient follow-up Dr. Diehl is one of MidMichigan Health’s team of heart doctors at MidMichigan Physicians Group Cardiology. With o ̄ ces in Midland, Mt. Pleasant, Gladwin and Houghton Lake, Dr. Diehl could also provide follow-up care for Schutt close to home.

“I can do oh-so-much right here in town without having to drive,” said Schutt, “and that’s a good thing.”

Schutt’s story is just one example of how MidMichigan physicians help their patients by seeing things di� erently. Learn more about how MidMichigan doctors see things di� er-ently at www.midmichigan.org/di� erence. For more information or a physician referral,

call MidMichigan Health Line toll-free at (800) 999-3199or visit www.midmichigan.org/doctors.






Virginia White-Linn, F.N.P.-B.C., B.C.-A.D.M., is one of many nurse practitioners with MidMichigan Health providing high-quality, timely health care for individuals and families.


Providing quality, timely care

Urolog ist Kar la Witzke, D.O., re-cently joined Tri City Urology in Midland and Mt. Pleasant. Dr. Witzke treats both male and fe-male patients with urologic problems, including urinary incontinence, dif-

� culty urinating, pelvic organ prolapse, sexual dysfunction, erectile dysfunction, benign prostatic hyperplasia, kidney

Welcome, Karla Witzke, D.O.

Urologist Karla Witzke, D.O.

stones and pelvic pain. She also treats pa-tients with urologic cancers such as those of the prostate, kidney, bladder, testicles and adrenal glands.

Dr. Witzke has a special interest in fe-male urology. She said a variety of methods can be combined to help patients have a better quality of life.

Dr. Witzke sees patients in Midland and Mt. Pleasant. She welcomes new

patients with a physician referral. For more informa-tion about Dr. Witzke, visit www.midmichigan.org/doctors.

Intensive education Just like physicians, PAs and NPs must complete higher-level education and intense clinical training. NPs are registered nurses who go on to complete a master’s-level program. PAs must complete a master of science pro-gram in physician assistant studies at an accredited school.





Cardiology in Houghton LakeINTERVENTIONAL Cardiologist Rodney Diehl, D.O., of MidMichigan Physicians Group, is now o� ering cardiology appointments at MidMichigan Health Park–Houghton Lake. Dr. Diehl welcomes new patients with referrals from their primary care providers. Patients who have interventional cardiology procedures at MidMichigan Medical Center–Midland will also have the option to schedule their follow-up appointments in Houghton Lake with Dr. Diehl.

Dr. Diehl’s capabilities complement the cardiology services already provided at the Health Park, including cardiac rehabilitation, carotid ultrasound, electrocar-diogram and cardiac event recording.

Dr. Diehl believes in aggressive preventive care before and a er a heart attack to save patients’ lives.

“I have a real desire to interact with patients and a long-term interest in heart and exercise physiology,” he said. “I am committed to o� ering patients in the Houghton Lake area compassionate cardiology services.”

Dr. Diehl is board-certi� ed in cardiovascular disease and internal medicine. He received his medical degree at the University of Osteopathic Medicine and Health Services in Des Moines, Iowa. He completed a residency and a cardiology fellowship at Botsford General Hospital in Farmington Hills and an interventional cardiology fel-lowship at St. Joseph Mercy Oakland Hospital in Pontiac.

To make an appointment with Dr. Diehl, call (989) 832-0900 or toll-free at (800) 897-8851. For more information about Dr. Diehl, visit www.midmichigan.org/doctors.








Rodney Diehl, D.O.



Ask your
















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ourourourourourourourourourourourourourourHealth news for residents of ROSCOMMON COUNTY

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HELP WHEN YOU NEED IT: Roberta Stier credits Family Medicine Physician Roberto Viguilla, M.D., and all the staff she has worked with through the Medical Care Discount Program for helping her and her husband to address their special health care needs.

Lake. The program provides primary health care services on a sliding fee scale that considers income, family size and spe-cial circumstances. It pays 40 to 95 percent of costs for certain primary care services and prescription medications. People who work or already have health insurance also may qualify for the discount.

“� ey treat us superbly,” said Edward Stier. “Like we’ve been there forever.” For every visit, program patients use a card that resembles an insurance card, which maintains their privacy. “You get the same treatment, whether you’re paying 5 percent or 95 percent. You are just a normal person. Nobody knows what you pay.”

Help to stay healthy At MidMichigan Medical Offices–Roscommon, Family Medicine Physician Roberto Viguilla, M.D., saw Edward Stier for his heart condition and helped Roberta Stier with new medication for her seizures and her painful psoriasis. “Ed has one medication that is quite expensive, but with the dis-count program we can a� ord it,” Roberta said. “He is able to take his meds and keep going.”

A member of the Community Outreach team came right to the couple’s home to help them complete the paperwork. “She was one fantastic lady,” said Roberta Stier. “All the people we have worked with have been wonderful.”

� e Stiers signed up for the program and then had their � rst visit with Dr. Viguilla just two days later. “I just adore Dr. Viguilla,” Roberta Stier said. “He works

When Roberta and Edward Stier lived downstate, she was a Marine City Chili Champ, won Girl Scout bakeo� s and ca-tered her daughter’s wedding, including baking the cake.

With the economic downturn, though, the Stiers, both in their early 60s, almost didn’t have enough money for food. About two years ago, they moved to the home in St. Helen that they had purchased in bet-ter times. While both have serious medical conditions, neither one of the Stiers had any medical care for about a year and a half.

Fortunately, they put their health back on track with the Medical Care Discount Program, available through MidMichigan Medical O ̄ ces–Roscommon, MidMichi-gan Health Park–Houghton Lake, and MidMichigan Urgent Care–Houghton

■ Offers primary health care services on a sliding fee scale with discounts ranging from 40 percent to 95 percent, depend-ing on income, family size and special circumstances■ Available at MidMichigan Medical Offi ces–Roscommon, MidMichigan Health Park–Houghton Lake and Mid-Michigan Urgent Care–Houghton Lake, which are Federally Qualifi ed Health Centers

Services■ Primary care offi ce visits and Urgent Care visits■ Patient education and counseling■ On-site lab tests, ultrasound and X-ray procedures, including mammograms and bone density testing■ Physical therapy and rehabilitation■ Co-pays and deductibles■ Prescription drugs at a participating pharmacy

Pediatric nurse practitioner joins School Based Health Center

Pediatr ic Nurse Practitioner Carissa Bonner, M.S., R.N., C.P.N.P., has joined the School Based Health Center at Hou g hton L a ke High School as its full-time provider. Originally from the Corunna area, Bon-

ner worked as a pediatric registered nurse at Duke University and also spent several years as a travel nurse in the hematology, oncology and bone marrow transplant � elds. Bonner has bachelor’s degrees in human biology and nursing. She recently completed her master’s degree in parent-child nursing. Bonner specializes in health care for children from birth to 21, focusing on health promotion and disease

Discount program helps families in hard times About the program

Carissa Bonner, M.S., R.N., C.P.N.P.

prevention. Bonner said that she was drawn to the School Based Health Center at Houghton Lake High School because she spent summers at family cabins on Higgins Lake and has an interest in work-ing with the youth of a rural community.

“I’m looking forward to getting to know the students and sta� and being part of the team that provides health and education to our students,” said Bonner.

� e School Based Health Center is open Monday through Friday. Hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Tuesday and � urs-day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. � e Center’s sta� will accept student walk-in appoint-ments between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; however, students are encouraged to schedule

appointments in advance. To make an appointment, call (989) 366-2061.

very hard to keep our health going, and he has a bedside manner I wish other doctors had.”

� ese days, Roberta said, she feels like things are going to get better. She even felt strong enough to quit smoking—a big achievement in such a stressful time.

“We don’t worry about yesterday or tomorrow,” she said. “We just live day by day. When you can’t a� ord insurance, MidMichigan is wonderful. � ey’ve been a godsend.”

For more information about the Medi-cal Care Discount Program or to receive an application, call (989) 422-5122.

Joe Schutt, 62, of Mt. Pleasant, likes to work and stay � t. “I haul hay and straw on my family’s farm to stay strong,” he said. “I’m also a trustee with the Eagles Club here in town. I help with the food and bartending, cleanup and sidewalks. I work hard in the summer, then in the winter, I slow down.”

Except in February of 2010: � at winter, even though Schutt slowed down, his heart kept racing. “My heart would beat real fast and then slow down,” he said. “It made me feel very weak.”

Schutt’s family medicine physician referred him right away to Interventional Cardiologist Rodney Diehl, D.O. At his Mt. Pleasant o ̄ ce, Dr. Diehl was able to perform a test that pointed to atrial � bril-lation as the cause of Schutt’s irregular heart rhythm. During atrial � brillation, the heart’s upper chambers are ine� ec-tive at pumping out blood, which creates a risk for stroke.

Joe Schutt didn’t have to travel far for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up for a heart condition.

Heart care close to home

Driving to Midland, not Ann Arbor Twice before, in 1974 and 2008, Schutt had heart problems that required him to travel two hours from Mt. Pleasant to Ann Arbor for care. For a sophisticated procedure that could restore his normal heart rhythm, he might have been looking at the same long trip.

But Schutt’s MidMichigan doctors saw things di� erently.

“When Dr. Diehl realized my problem was going to be serious, he sent me to MidMichigan Medical Center–Midland,” said Schutt.

At the Medical Center’s Electrophysiol-ogy Lab, Schutt had cardiac catheter ab-lation. Electrophysiologist Nilofar Islam, M.D., used a 3-D Cardio Mapping System and a tiny catheter inserted through a blood vessel in Schutt’s groin to � nd and eliminate the small electrical malfunction in his heart.

Schutt’s daughter drove him to the Med-ical Center in Midland for an overnight stay, and Schutt was able to have a proce-dure that restored the regular beat of his heart without having to go on medication.

Convenient follow-up Dr. Diehl is one of MidMichigan Health’s team of heart doc-tors at MidMichigan Physicians Group Cardiology. With o ̄ ces in Midland, Mt. Pleasant, Gladwin and Houghton Lake, Dr. Diehl could also provide follow-up care for Schutt close to home.

“I can do oh-so-much right here in town without having to drive,” said Schutt, “and that’s a good thing.”

Learn more about how MidMichi-gan doctors see things differently at www.midmichigan.org/di� erence. For a

physician referral, call Mid-Michigan Health Line toll-free at (800) 999-3199 or visit www.midmichigan.org/doctors.


the middle of michigan urgent care maged rizk, william felten, m.d. saves time diehl… ·...

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