Summer 2007

Personal care eases path to parenthood

Incentive for change:

Beating the Metabolic Syndrome

Explore Assisted Living options

After active duty: Easing the transition


Healthy Connections is published by
Winona Health to provide you with
information about health, wellness and
the many resources available to you,
close to home. Sending you Healthy
Connections is just one example of how
we’re working to fulfill our mission of
improving the health and well-being of
our family, friends and neighbors.
We welcome your questions, suggestions
or comments about Winona Health
and this publication. Please visit
winonahealth.org and click on Contact
Us or call Winona Health Marketing/
Public Relations at 507.474.3328.
If you no longer wish to receive Healthy
Connections, please call 507.474.3328 or
send an e-mail, noting your address as it
appears on the back of the publication,
to krwalters@winonahealth.org.
In this issue...
2 From the President/CEO
3 Urgent Care Clinic to increase
hours this fall
4 Beating the Metabolic Syndrome
6 Explore Assisted Living options
7 After active duty: easing the
transition
8 Along the path to parenthood
10 KidsHealth: Summer safety
12 News and notes
14 Foundation & Auxiliary news
15 Winona Health directory
16 Events
On the cover: On the cover: Samantha,
Jake and Nora Wagner with Amparo
“Tweety” Oevering, RN, and Laurel Kruse,
RN, from Community Memorial Hospital’s
Family Birth Center.
 Healthy Connections ~ Summer 2007
Welcome to Healthy Connections
From the President/CEO
A
ccess to high quality healthcare for all
is on everyone’s mind with new options
emerging all around us. Our mission, “Winona
Health is devoted to improving the health and
well-being of our family, friends and neighbors,”
guides us as work to meet your healthcare needs.
In October 2005, Winona Health opened
a weekend Urgent Care Clinic in response
to the many requests from our community
for this service. This clinic has proven to be
a needed and valuable option—and yet the
requests continue. Thus, in response, WH will Rachelle H. Schultz
expand Urgent Care service and relocate it to
accommodate this change. Our goal is to open the Urgent Care Clinic in its
new location at 420 Sarnia Street (the former Winona Clinic building) in mid-
September. It will be open seven days a week with day and evening hours.
We also will move our Outpatient Rehabilitation Services (physical,
occupational and speech therapy) to the same location. With enhanced
space, parking and access, we will be better able to meet the growing
demands for these services as well. Some of the key services provided by
these talented therapists include treatment for lymphedema, work injury
management, rehabilitation, sports medicine and therapeutic massage.
Other services that will be located in the newly remodeled building
include the Winona Health Allergy & Asthma Clinic with Dr. Terry
Donnal and Periodontal Specialists, a private practice operated by
Anthony Michelich, DDS.
We are excited to expand these healthcare services in response to
community requests, and we are pleased to work with Schwab Company
on remodeling this space.
I look forward to hearing your ideas and suggestions on how we can
further meet your healthcare needs.
Enjoy a safe and healthy summer!
Rachelle H. Schultz
President/CEO

Sarnia property undergoing remodeling:

Urgent Care expanding hours

at new location
T his fall, Winona Health will move its Urgent Care Clinic
When should you use Urgent Care?
to 420 E. Sarnia and expand service from weekends-only
to seven-days-per-week. The building, which is the former
Winona Clinic building, will be called Winona Health
Sarnia Square.
“We’re looking forward to offering urgent care on a daily
basis. Our weekend Urgent Care Clinic was well received,
and we’ve had frequent requests for this service during the
week,” said Rachelle Schultz, Winona Health president/CEO.
A part-time medical director, physician assistants and nurse
practitioners will staff the Urgent Care Clinic.
Other services moving to Sarnia Square include the
Winona Health Allergy & Asthma Clinic, Occupational
Health and Outpatient Rehabilitation Services. The Cardiac
Rehabilitation program, however, will remain on the hospital
campus. In addition, some Winona Health support services,
including the Accounting Department and Business Office,
will move into the remodeled facility.
Winona Health also will lease space in the remodeled
building to Dr. Anthony Michelich of Periodontal Specialists.
Dr. Michelich has been providing periodontal services in the
community for more than 20 years.
Urgent care is quick and convenient, and no appoint-
ment is necessary. Urgent care services are appropriate
for injuries and conditions for which you’d normally
contact your primary care physician, including:
• Earaches
• Sore throats
• Possible sinus infections
• Bites and skin rashes
• Minor injuries
If your situation is an emergency, the Emergency
Department at Community Memorial Hospital is
always open.
Until Urgent Care opens in its new location, it will
maintain weekend hours in the Parkview Office Building
at 825 Mankato Avenue. Hours are Saturdays noon until
8 p.m. and Sundays 10 a.m. until 7 p.m.
For more information about Winona Health and its
affiliates and services, visit winonahealth.org, or call
507.454.3650.

Winona Health Sarnia Street Plans

URGENT CARE PARKING

Accounting,
Business Office

2Floor
& MSO
(Medical Services
Organization)
nd
Urgent Care
Clinic

1Floor
st

N
Rehabilitation
Services W E
Periodontal
Specialists, S
Future P.A.
Healthcare
Provider Sites
PERIODONTAL
Future SPECIALISTS
Healthcare PARKING
Provider Sites
Sarnia Street
REHAB SERVICES PARKING


Healthy Connections ~ Summer 2007 


Incentive for change:
Beating the Metabolic Syndrome
A

‘‘
re you one of the approximately 22 percent of adults in
And while genetics
the United States who have specific symptoms that put
you at increased risk for serious health problems?
do play a role,
“A growing number of people
are developing significant
lifestyle choices are the
health problems—and at
earlier ages. We have never
major determinant.
seen type 2 diabetes in chil-
dren until recently” said
Charles Shepard, MD
Charles Shepard, MD, Winona
Medical Director
Health’s medical director and
an internal medicine physician
with Winona Clinic. • Elevated fasting blood sugar (greater than 110)
• Abnormal blood fats: elevated triglycerides
The growing trend of people
• Abnormal blood fats: low HDL cholesterol/high LDL
developing a combination
cholesterol
of symptoms that negatively
• Abdominal obesity (waist measurement greater than
impact their health has gar-
40” for men and 35” for women)
nered enough attention to
• Resistance to insulin
earn a name: The Metabolic
Syndrome. Health risks Statistics show that the number of people developing
include: these findings is increasing at an alarming rate,”
• Type 2 diabetes said Dr. Shepard. “And while genetics do play a role,
• Heart disease lifestyle choices are the major determinant.” Dr.
• Stroke Shepard encourages people to understand the health
• Gallbladder disease implications of these risk factors and to take preventive
• Liver disease action—in other words, to control the factors that we as
• Osteoarthritis individuals can control.
• Sleep Apnea and respiratory
Following a healthy diet and exercising to maintain a
problems
healthy weight is a simple concept, but the growing
• Some cancers
trend toward obesity (see chart) proves that it isn’t
The Metabolic Syndrome is easy. We have to begin by aiming for improvement,
diagnosed when an individual not perfection. “Start making your health a priority,”
exhibits three or more of encourages Dr. Shepard. “We do have control over what
the following symptoms (see we put into our bodies and how we use our bodies—and
page 5 for information about that has a major impact on our health. Set goals of being
monitoring these symptoms): physically active for at least 30 minutes, five times per
• Elevated blood pressure week and eating foods low in sugar and fats. Losing even
(135/85 or higher) five to 10 pounds will improve many aspects of your health.”

 Healthy Connections ~ Summer 2007

Understanding the indicators
Several factors are monitored that can be indicators of the High blood pressure (hypertension): Blood pressure is a
Metabolic Syndrome. Some of the indicators to watch and reading that indicates the force of blood moving through
work to control include: your arteries. Measured as systolic (as the heart beats) over
diastolic (as the heart rests between beats), a pressure of 120
Triglycerides: After we eat, our bodies use calories as fuel for
over 80 is considered normal. In adults, a reading equal to or
the activities we do. Calories that are not used are turned into
greater than 135 over 85 is considered elevated, and 140 over
triglycerides and are stored in fat cells until they’re used.
90 is considered high.
Cholesterol: Cholesterol is a fat-like, waxy substance that we
Fasting blood sugar is the amount of sugar in your blood after
naturally have in our bodies. It protects nerves and produces
fasting for at least eight hours. A glucose reading greater than
cell tissue and certain hormones. However, too much
110 milligrams of glucose per deciliter (mg/dL) of blood is
cholesterol can be a problem as it may cling to the artery
considered elevated.
walls and impede blood flow. Cholesterol travels through our
blood in two ways: low density lipoproteins (LDL) deliver
Triglycerides LDL (low density) cholesterol
cholesterol to the body and are potentially harmful, and high Normal: below 150 milligrams • 130 or less is best
density lipoproteins (HDL) remove cholesterol from the per deciliter (mg/dL) • 130-159 borderline high
bloodstream. Borderline high: 150-199 • 160 or more is high
High: 200-500
Insulin resistance is when your body does not use insulin Very high: above 500 HDL (high density) cholesterol
properly. Insulin allows sugar (glucose) to enter body cells to
• 60 or higher is best
be used for energy and helps muscles, fat and liver cells store Total cholesterol • 40 or less is too low
sugar to be released as needed. If your body does not respond • 200 or less is best
properly to insulin, your blood sugar level rises. • 200-239 is borderline high
• 240 or more is high

It’s not too late to improve your health: The trend toward obesity
Four things to do—starting now According to the U.S. Government’s Centers for Disease
Control, the tendency for people of all ages to be
1. Change your eating habits: Limit fats and sugars, and
overweight is increasing.
increase fruits, vegetables and whole grain foods.
Reducing your intake by as little as 100 to 200 calories per 35

day can make a difference over time, if done consistently. 30

2. Be more active: Lack of exercise is a major risk factor. 25

Regular exercise raises HDL cholesterol and, in some

Percentage

20
people, lowers LDL cholesterol. Exercise also can lower
blood pressure, reduce insulin resistance and improve 15

heart function. 10

3. Assess your risk for Coronary Artery Disease. Talk with 5

your primary care physician and, if necessary, get

treatment to lower artery-clogging LDL cholesterol. 0
Adults 20-74 Children 2-5 Children 6-11
Ages
4. If you use tobacco, do whatever it takes to quit.
Survey from 1976-1980 Survey from 2003-2004

Healthy Connections ~ Summer 2007 

Navigating options for senior living:
Help is available
C hange isn’t always easy, especially when someone is
moving from a long-time home to a senior services
facilty. But Bunny Bennick, Winona Senior Services Tips for finding a good fit
community liaison nurse, can help make the transition a
When considering your living arrangements,
smooth one.
Bunny Bennick, Winona Senior Services community
How do you know when it’s time for you or a loved one to liaison nurse, encourages you to tour all the facilities
consider alternatives to living at home? “When you notice in your community.
that it’s becoming harder to do day-to-day upkeep—or even And during your tour, she recommends that you:
before you begin noticing the signs,” said Bennick.
• Ask if they have room for couples to be together.
In Bennick’s experience, many people say they want to stay
in their home no matter what, but that’s not always realistic. • Find out what type of recreation is provided.
She advises, “Make time to talk to parents or family members • Ask if there are social workers available to help
when there isn’t a lot going on. Try not to wait until the need support
is imminent. Ask if they’ve thought about what they’d like residents
to do when it becomes too difficult, or they no longer want and families
to take care of their home. Let them know that you want to if needed.
clearly understand what’s impotant to them, and be honest • Find out
with them about how much you are able to help. whether
licensed staff
“One of my goals is to provide a smooth transition for
members are
people who are at varying degrees of readiness to make a
available.
change in their living arrangements,” said Bennick. “I enjoy
giving tours of our facilities and educating families about • Ask to speak
various aspects of each option.” to some of
the people
Winona Health offers senior living for all stages of life: living there.
• Watkins Manor, at 175 E. Wabasha in Winona, is
designed for independent seniors and for those who
need some assistance with daily living. Bunny Bennick, RN, Winona Senior
Services community liaison nurse,
• Lake Winona Manor, adjacent to Community Memorial helps make the transition into an
Hospital, serves those who need skilled nursing—either assisted living home more comfortable.
short-term rehabilitative care or long-term care.

• Adith Miller and Roger Metz Manors, on Winona Health’s
main campus, offer a home-like setting for those needing
memory care.
“We can help families determine the best fit for each
person’s needs and wishes,” said Bennick. “I’m happy to
serve as a resource for navigating the issues related to senior
living options.” Bennick encourages families to maintain a
positive attitude about change. She notes, “Learning about
their options may help people look forward to a new chapter
in their lives.”
For more information about Winona Health’s senior living
options, contact Bunny Bennick at 507.494.7493.

 Healthy Connections ~ Summer 2007

Coming home: Patience key to
easing veteran’s return

‘‘
L ater this summer, approximately 2,700 National
What some may not realize is
Guardsman are expected to return to Minnesota. About
80 of them will be welcomed home to Winona.
that it also can be an emotionally
“The return of a family member from military service is a
happy and exciting time. What some may not realize is that challenging
it also can be an emotionally challenging time—not only for time—not only
the returning veteran, but also for his or her family,” said
Kathryn Amundson, PhD, a counselor with Winona Health’s for the returning
Psychiatric & Counseling Services.
veteran, but also
Mark Bronson, LICSW, noted,
for his or her
“An average of 15 family
members are affected by each family.
person returning. The family
system is bound to be different Kathryn Amundson, PhD
than it was before deployment. Counselor
Everyone has to adjust to how
their roles have changed.”

Amundson and Bronson
received special training to help
meet the needs of veterans and
Mark Bronson, LICSW
their families transitioning to
life after military service. Patience, they agreed, was one of
the keys to finding a “new normal” for family life.
Dr. Amundson explained, “It’s a simplification, but having
life disrupted by military service is analogous to paddling a
canoe: You can ride along smoothly until someone gets out
of the canoe. The other people in the canoe adjust and learn
to paddle without the person who left. Then everyone has to
readjust when that person gets back in. There will be stages
of adjustment, and it’s best if everyone is patient as those
stages occur.”
According to John J. Morris, a chaplain with the Minnesota
Army National Guard, veterans typically go through six
stages upon returning to civilian life:
1. Honeymoon 4. Engagement
2. Disillusionment 5. Acceptance
3. Alienation 6. New normal
Amundson and Bronson share these tips for family members
and friends of returning veterans:
1. Welcome them home.
2. Affirm what they did.
3. Support them with patience. Let them adjust at their
own pace.
4. Encourage them to reengage in activities, but take your
cues from them as to their readiness for extra activities.
5. Give them opportunities to succeed/be realistic in your
expectations.
For information about Winona Health Psychiatric
& Counseling Services, call 507.454.2606, or visit
winonahealth.org.
Recommended reading: Armstrong, K, Best, S,
& Domenici, P. (2006) Courage After Fire: Coping
Strategies for Troops Returning from Iraq and
Afghanistan and Their Families.
Recommended website: www.JoiningForcesOnline.org

Healthy Connections ~ Summer 2007 

 From the Cover

Personal care eases path to parenthood

S amantha and Jake Wagner know firsthand that the
path from young married couple to family of three isn’t
always a smooth one.
problem and wouldn’t live.” In August 2005, five months into
her pregnancy, their baby, Leo, was stillborn.

“Maybe because we had this experience we can really see

Jake, from Owatonna, Minnesota, and Samantha, from the
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, area met as students at Winona
State University, and decided to make Winona their home.
When a friend of Samantha’s had her baby in Community
Memorial Hospital’s Family Birth Center, Samantha visited
her and was impressed with the facility and staff. So when
she and Jake learned they were
expecting, Samantha made plans
to see the midwives at the Winona
Clinic and have her baby at CMH.
“The midwives [LeAnn van den
Bosch, CNM and Suzanne Cooley,
CNM] were wonderful. I was having
such an easy pregnancy and there
was no indication of a problem. So
it was a shock when an ultrasound
revealed that our baby had a
and appreciate how good something is,” said Samantha.
“LeAnn and the nurses in the Family Birth Center were
so wonderful and caring.”
When the Wagners learned on January 2, 2006, that they
were expecting again, they were excited and a little anxious.
As Samantha’s due date approached,
she and Jake began Childbirth
Education Classes, and they were
pleased to see Amparo (Tweety)
Oevering, RN, was the teacher.
“Tweety was with us through
our labor with Leo, and it was
comforting to know that she knew
all we had been through.”
Two weeks into the six-week
childbirth class and a month before

 Healthy Connections ~ Summer 2007

her due date, Samantha went into labor. “I thought that I was
just having Braxton Hicks contractions, but since they were
regular and getting stronger, I went in to get checked, and I
was surprised to learn that I definitely was in labor.”
After quickly being admitted into the Family Birth Center,
everything went smoothly. “One of the first people I saw was
Tweety—she smiled and said, ‘I told you I’d be here’ and she
had told me that! It was a great experience,” said Samantha.
“The nurses are wonderful. The labor and delivery rooms are
spacious and beautiful, and the whirlpool felt so good, and
it was nice having it right there in the room.” Nora June, 5
pounds, 6 ounces and 19 inches, was born August 14, 2006.
Before the Wagners went home to begin life as a family, they
enjoyed a Celebration Dinner presented by Winona Health’s
Food & Nutrition staff.
Reflecting on her journey to parenthood and on her
experience at the Family Birth Center, Samantha said, “I love
that everyone gets to know you—the care feels so personal. I
wouldn’t consider going anywhere else.”
Resources for new parents
Childbirth Education Class
Expectant parents learn about emotional and physical
changes that occur during pregnancy and birth. They’ll
also learn about labor and delivery and the many
choices for pain management.
Breastfeeding Class
This is an opportunity to learn about breastfeeding and
the many ways it benefits mothers and babies.
MOM (Mother’s Own Milk)
Breastfeeding Support Group
Although breastfeeding is natural, it’s not always easy.
Family Birth Center nurses and childbirth educators,
Robyn Hinz and Annie Halverson, answer questions and
offer solutions. This is also an opportunity to weigh your
baby and to meet other moms and babies to share tips
and ideas.
Labor & Delivery Massage
Labor and delivery massage is one more option
available to enhance your birth experience and make
your birthing process more comfortable.
Infant Massage
Massage releases tension, increases relaxation, aids in
digestion and elimination, improves sleep and helps
calm colicky babies. Donna McBride, a certified massage
therapist with advanced certification in pregnancy,
labor and postpartum massage and a certified infant
massage instructor, can teach you how to use infant
massage to benefit your baby. For more information,
call 507.457.4329.
FREE new parent e-newsletter!
Enroll at winonahealth.org/kidshealth. Click on the
Parenting link and then on New Parent News. This
e-newsletter provides information about each stage of
pregnancy and for parents of children up to age two.
Parents of older children
will find many articles of
interest, including fun
and kid-friendly recipes
at winonahealth.org/
kidshealth.
Healthy Connections ~ Summer 2007 
KIDSHEALTH FEATURE
Play it safe:
Tips for preventing playground injuries
A ccording to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety
Commission, each year more than 200,000 preschool
and elementary children receive emergency department
care for injuries that occur on playground equipment. Faulty
equipment, improper surfaces, and careless behavior are just
a few of the reasons why kids are injured on playgrounds.
“No matter how careful parents and caregivers are, there is
the potential for children to hurt themselves during normal
play,” said Chris Schubert, MD, an Emergency Department
physician at Community Memorial Hospital. “But proper
precautions help prevent many injuries.”
Ways to keep kids safe at the playground:
Supervise children.
Kids should always have adult supervision when they’re at
the playground. Young children (and sometimes older ones)
can’t always gauge distances properly and aren’t capable
of foreseeing dangerous situations by themselves. Older
kids often love to test their limits on the playground, so it’s
important for an adult to be there to keep them in check.
Check the playground surface.
A proper playground surface is one of the most important
10 Healthy Connections ~ Summer 2007
factors in reducing injuries —and the severity of injuries—
that occur when kids fall from equipment. The surface
under the playground equipment should be soft enough and
thick enough to soften the impact of a child’s fall. Surfaces
should be loosely filled with materials like wood chips,
mulch, sand, pea gravel, or shredded rubber.
Keep in mind that even proper surfacing can’t prevent all
injuries. Also, the greater the height of the equipment, the
more likely a child is to be injured if he or she falls from it.
Examine playground design and spacing.
Playground equipment should be designed for two different
age groups: 2- to 5-year-olds (preschool children) and 5- to
12-year-olds (school-age children). In the safest playgrounds,
play areas for younger children are separated from those
meant for older children and signs clearly designate each
area to prevent confusion.
Younger kids should not play on equipment designed for
older kids because the equipment sizes and proportions
won’t be right for small children, which can lead to injury.
Likewise, older kids should not play on equipment designed
for younger children. Smaller equipment and spaces can
cause problems for bigger kids.
 Wearing a bike helmet may
lead to ice cream
The Winona Area Ambulance Service (WAAS), Winona
police Department and the Winona Island Café are
teaming up to encourage kids to wear their bike
helmets while riding. If the ambulance staff or a police
officer spots a child wearing a bike helmet, they may
reward them with a certificate for a free ice cream cone
redeemable at the Winona Island Café at 2 Johnson
Street, near the levy in Winona.

Winona Area Ambulance staff and police officers always

Safe playground equipment and adult supervision are
extremely important, but it’s only half of the equation:
Kids must know how to be safe and act responsibly at the
playground. Here are some general rules to teach your child:
will be in uniform and with a properly identified vehicle
when they are handing out certificates.
For more information on keeping your children safe
this summer, visit Winona Health online at
winonahealth.org/kidshealth.

• Never push or roughhouse while on jungle gyms, slides,

and other equipment.
• Use equipment properly—slide feet first, don’t climb
Find more health information at
outside guardrails, etc. winonahealth.org/kidshealth!
• Check to make sure that there are no other children in the
way before sliding, climbing, or jumping off equipment.
for kids:
• Leave bikes and bags away from the equipment and the
area where children are playing so that no one trips over • Everyday Illnesses & Injuries
them and falls. • Dealing with Feelings
• Playground equipment should never be used if it is wet • Health Problems of Grown-Ups
because it could be slippery. • Kids’ Health Problems
• Don’t wear clothes with drawstrings or other strings. • Staying Healthy
(Drawstrings, purses, and necklaces could get caught on • My Body
equipment and accidentally strangle a child.) • The Game Closet for parents:
• En Español
“Help make playgrounds safe by checking equipment for
• Hot Topics newsroom
potential problems and teaching your children playground • Growth & Development
rules,” said Dr. Schubert. “Kids who know playground rules for teens: • Nutrition & Fitness
are less likely to get hurt.” • Positive Parenting
• Your Body
• Pregnancy & Newborns
Play is an important part of your child’s physical, social, • Your Mind
• Doctors & Hospitals
intellectual, and emotional development. If you keep these • Diseases & Conditions
• Medical Problems
safety tips in mind, you’re on your way to making sure your • Sexual Health
• En Español
child’s play is as safe as possible. • Drugs & Alcohol
• Food & Fitness
©2007 The Nemours Foundation/Kidshealth. Used under license. Edited
version. For more information, visit winonahealth.org/kidshealth. • School & Jobs
• En Español

Healthy Connections ~ Summer 2007 11

Community comments
To the staff in the Family Birth Center and Intensive Care
Unit….Now I know what angels from heaven look like.
Thank you very, very much.
The Bruce Hilke Family
Altura, MN
“Thank you for the great fun [Winona Health Celebrates
Women] and for the centerpiece I won along with the basket
of goodies. You all did a terrific job. I had a good time, and
I’m looking forward to coming again next year!”
Darlene Tudahl
Rushford, MN
Attendees at Winona Health Celebrates Women enjoyed
keynote speaker Katy Smith, educational sessions, health
screenings and informational booths.
“Thank you for the women’s day event [Winona Health
Celebrates Women]. It was an excellently coordinated event
with a lovely breakfast and delightful keynote speaker [Katy
Smith]. The sessions I attended were very interesting and the
booths were nice looking and informational. I’m glad I came.”
Mary Stettler
Fountain City, WI
12 Healthy Connections ~ Summer 2007
“Thank you for exceptional care before, during and after my
surgery. Your staff ’s professional and compassionate demean-
or made the experience virtually painless. While you all put
me totally at ease, I never expected the whole ordeal to be as
easy as it was. God has blessed each of you with special gifts
that you use well. I felt blessed to be in your care. Thanks for
making one of life’s interruptions an ‘easy pill to swallow.’”
Karen Trickett
Winona, MN
Respiratory Care program recognized for quality
Community Memorial Hospital has earned Quality
Respiratory Recognition (QRCR) under the American
Association for Respiratory Care’s national program to help
patients and families make informed decisions about the
quality of the respiratory care services available in hospitals.
About 500 hospitals—approximately 10%—of hospitals in the
U.S. have applied for and received this award. Hospitals that
meet the QRCR requirements provide a level of respiratory
care consistent with national standards and guidelines
Winona Health receives
Quality Achievement Award
Winona Health took another step toward excellence,
receiving an Achievement-level award from the Minnesota
Council for Quality. Organizations recognized at this level
have established sound, effective approaches to the
award’s criteria for leadership, strategic planning, customer
focus, information systems, workforce management and
work process.
“What we’ve learned about this process,” said Rachelle
Schultz, Winona Health president/CEO, “is that it’s hard
work, it’s rewarding, it engages all staff members, and it is
making a difference at Winona Health.”
The Minnesota Quality Award is given to organizations
that successfully complete a full assessment using either
a narrative-based or survey-based approach. Four award
levels (Commitment, Advancement, Achievement and
Excellence) are intended to recognize organizations at the
appropriate stage of their quality journey.
Staff news
Bill Daniel joined the staff at
Winona Health as hospice chaplain
and bereavement coordinator.
In this new position, Bill serves
families using hospice services
and conducts memorial services.
He received his Master of Arts
degree in Chaplaincy/Pastoral
Care/Christian Counseling from the Southern Baptist
Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. For more
information about Hospice Services, call 507.457.4468.
Satya Srinivas Gorty, MD, will join the medical staff
at Community Memorial Hospital in July. Dr. Gorty, an
anesthesiologist, completed his residency at the Medical
College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee. He received his
medical education at Northeastern Ohio Universities
College of Medicine, Rootstown, OH and Ross University
School of medicine, Dominica, West Indies. He earned his
Bachelor of Science from the University of Akron in Ohio.
Quality & safety top priorities at Winona Health
As Winona Health’s chief quality
& safety officer, Kathleen Lanik is
responsible for quality, safety, risk
and information management
initiatives throughout Winona Health.
Kathleen Lanik
“There are four principles that
guide our actions: safety, courtesy, performance and
effectiveness. Safety is first,” noted Lanik. “We focus on
identification and prevention of potential risk to our
patients and residents. Our goal is to provide peace of
mind by providing personalized, compassionate care.”
Among the factors contributing to safety and quality at
Winona Health:
• Implementation of a community-wide Electronic a nurse in the Intensive Care Unit, on the medical floor
Medical Record (EMR)
• Use of evidence-based clinical practices
• Fact-based decision making
• Compliance with state and federal surveys
Brett Whyte, MD, has been named
Community Memorial Hospital’s
Emergency Department medical
director. Dr. Whyte has been with
Winona Health since 1999. He
received his medical degree from
the University of Wisconsin Medical
School in Madison and is board
certified in Emergency Medicine and in Family Medicine.
Dr. Whyte also is the medical director for Winona Area
Ambulance Service.
Scott Turner, MD, will join the
Community Memorial Hospital
Emergency Department in July.
He received his medical degree
from the University or Minnesota
medical School in Minneapolis and
has been practicing medicine in
Winona for almost 30 years.
• Voluntary participation in state and federal
safety initiatives
• Service Excellence and Performance Excellence
programs
• Compliance with state and federal surveys
• Continuous improvement efforts using the
Baldrige criteria
Satisfaction survey results reflect that patients feel safe at
Winona Health, with scores putting the organization in the
top quartile of its peers. “The same is true for our quality
outcome scores,” said Lanik. “We’re consistently rated in the
top quartile by our patients and residents.”
Lanik began her career with Winona Health in 1975 as
and in the Emergency Department before continuing her
education in Health Information Management. She is a
Registered Health Information Technologist (RHIT) and also
holds credentials in healthcare quality.
Healthy Connections ~ Summer 2007 13
Foundation & Auxiliary News

Donation to honor parents was given with patients in mind

A stained glass window, a gift from Dennis and Vicki (Simpson)
Decker, was installed in Winona Health’s Outpatient Registration
area this spring. The donation was made in memory of their parents
Gilbert and Margaret Decker and Edward and Fern Simpson.

“We hope this beautiful window will add a soothing and tranquil
focal point for patients and families who may feel apprehensive
waiting for a test or procedure,” said Vicki Decker. “We thought this
would be a nice way to pay tribute to our parents and to enhance
what is already a beautiful facility. We hope it’s something the
community will enjoy.”

Designed by Winona artist Ed Glubka, the window was crafted by

Dennis Decker’s brother, Gil, at Decker Studios.

For more information about the Winona Health Foundation,

including information about grants and scholarships, call Dennis and Vicki Decker donated this stained glass
window for Winona Health’s Outpatient Registration
507.457.4342 or visit winonahealth.org.
area in honor of their parents.

Ben & Adith Miller Golf Classic Auxiliary Birthday Ball will
have New Year’s theme
The Ben & Adith Miller Classic,
Mark your calendars for the 45th annual
Monday, August 13, will feature
Winona Health Auxiliary Birthday Ball-
celebrity golfer Kevin Compare,
Countdown to Midnight: A New Year’s Eve
instruction coordinator of PGA
Gala—in September. The event will be held
America and trick shot artist.
on Saturday, September 8, 2007
“Kevin’s antics are entertaining,
and his knowledge of the game
The annual charity ball will be held at Saint
is amazing, “ said Nancy Brown,
Mary’s University Toner Center. Highlights
Winona Health Foundation
include Steve Millar and Diamondhead,
executive director.
a band from the Twin Cities, and a raffle
Kevin Compare will perform at the Ben The Main Event begins at 11 which includes a diamond and sapphire
& Adith Miller Classic, August 13. a.m. and includes lunch, 18 holes, necklace.
refreshments on the course and
an evening banquet. The Green Monster Challenge is a 9-hole, four-person Proceeds from the Auxiliary’s Birthday Ball
scramble that begins with a light lunch at 12:30. The Youth Tournament, is a 9- help fund scholarships for those seeking a
hole, four-person scramble beginning at 7 a.m. Young golfers can register as a career in healthcare and purchase patient
team or individually and ask to be assigned to a foursome. The Green Monster lift sytems that support Winona Health’s
Challenge and the Youth Tournament are presented by Merchants Bank. mission: to improve the health and well-
being of our family, friends and neighbors.
Proceeds from The Ben & Adith Miller Classic help make a difference in the
lives of families through the Ben & Adith Miller Patient Care Fund. The Fund
The formal dinner dance is open to the
has helped more than 1,100 individuals and families with healthcare expenses.
public. For more information visit
For more information or to register, visit winonahealth.org, or call the www.birthdayball.org or call 507.457.4394.
Winona Health Foundation at 507.457.4342.

14 Healthy Connections ~ Summer 2007

 Telephone directory
Winona Health Affiliates
Winona Health............................................................ 454.3650
Toll Free.........................................................800.944.3960
Community Memorial Hospital.............................. 454.3650
Clip and save this page as a reference for contacting Winona Health and its affiliates.
Lake Winona Manor (nursing home)....................... 457.4366
Watkins Manor (assisted living)............................... 494.7400
Adith Miller/Roger Metz Manors (memory care).... 454.0179
Winona Area Hospice Services................................ 457.4468
Home Care................................................................... 457.4468
Parkview Pharmacy.................................................... 454.4925
Winona Health Foundation...................................... 474.3328
Physician Clinics
Allergy & Asthma Clinic................................... 474.7830
Eye Care Center................................................... 474.4760
Occupational Health Clinic.............................. 474.7830
Psychiatric & Counseling Services.................. 454.2606
Rushford Clinic.................................................... 864.7726
Sports & Orthopaedic Specialists.................... 474.6600
Urgent Care Clinic.............................................. 474.7830
• All phone numbers on this page use area code 507
• The Urgent Care Clinic is available on week-
ends for minor injuries or conditions a person
would usually present to a primary care provider.
Urgent Care is open Saturdays, noon to 8 p.m. and
Sundays, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (See news on page 3)
• If you think your situation is an emergency,
call 911 or go to Community Memorial
Hospital’s Emergency Department at 855
Mankato Avenue in Winona. Our Emergency
Department is always open.
If you have feedback or comments about our organization that you would like to share, please visit winonahealth.org and click on Contact Us.
Departments
Administration............................................................ 494.7371
Business Office/Billing Information....................... 457.4369
Community Relations................................................ 474.3328
Department of Behavioral Medicine (Inpatient).. 457.4362
Dialysis.......................................................................... 457.4391
Family Birth Center.................................................... 457.4345
Gift Shop....................................................................... 457.4450
Health Information Management........................... 457.4483
Human Resources....................................................... 457.4490
Laboratory.................................................................... 457.4323
Nutrition & Diabetes Education.............................. 457.4329
Pastoral Care................................................................ 457.4382
Radiology/ Imaging Services (Bone Densitometry,
CT, Digital X-ray, Echocardiography, MRI,
Nuclear Medicine, Ultrasound & Women’s
Imaging/Mammography).................................... 457.4320
Rehabilitation Services (Cardiopulmonary
Rehabilitation, Massage Therapy, Occupational
Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech–Language
Pathology).............................................................. 457.4329
Respiratory Care......................................................... 457.4326
Sleep Lab....................................................................... 453.3789
Surgery.......................................................................... 457.4440
Telecare......................................................................... 457.4466
Volunteer Services...................................................... 457.4394
Winona’s Health Online Helpline.....................888.287.1024
Healthy Connections ~ Summer 2007 15
 EVENTS, CLASSES & SUPPORT GROUPS
For a complete calendar of events by date
and for more information about our services
and programs, please visit our website:
winonahealth.org. We welcome your
questions and comments.
Alzheimer’s Support Group
Second Wednesday of every month, 6–7 p.m.
CMH, Parkview Conference Room
507.457.4560
Breastfeeding Class
August 2, 6:30–8:30 p.m.
October 4, 6:30–8:30 p.m.
December 6, 6:30–8:30 p.m.
CMH, Lake Winona Manor Classroom
$10 per participant/couple
Registration required: 507.457.4338
Camp We-No-Wheeze
July 20–22
Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center
Lanesboro, Minnesota
$45 per camper
Register by July 6: 507.494.7384
Childbirth Education Class
6-week course, 6:30–8:30 p.m.
July 10–August 14 (Tuesdays)
August 1–September 5 (Wednesdays)
September 11–October 16 (Tuesdays)
October 1–November 5 (Mondays)
November 6–December 11 (Tuesdays)
CMH, B.A. Miller Auditorium
Registration required: 507.457.4338
Childbirth Education Weekend Class
Friday, 6–8 p.m. and Saturday,
8 a.m.–3 p.m.
855 Mankato Ave.
Winona, MN 55987
September 14–15
December 7–8
CMH, B.A. Miller Auditorium
Registration required: 507.457.4338
Diabetes Prevention Series
Four-session class held on Tuesdays
October 1, 8, 15, 22 6:30–7:30 p.m.
CMH, Lake Winona Manor Classroom
$60 per person/couple
Registration required: 507.457.4149
Healthcare CPR Recertification
3-hour course offered:
June 21, 7:30–10:30 a.m.
June 26, 5–8 p.m.
July 19, 7:30–10:30 a.m.
August 16, 7:30–10:30 a.m.
August 28, 7:30–10:30 a.m.
September 12, 5–8 p.m.
September 20, 7:30–10:30 a.m.
October 18, 7:30–10:30 a.m.
October 23, 7:30–10:30 a.m.
November 1, 5–8 p.m.
November 15, 7:30–10:30 a.m.
November 30, 7:30–10:30 a.m.
December 5, 7:30–10:30 a.m.
December 20, 7:30–10:30 a.m.
CMH, B.A. Miller Auditorium
$30. Registration required: 507.457.4491
Healthcare Directives
Informational sessions:
July 16, 9:30–10:30 a.m.
September 17, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Working sessions:
July 23, 9:30–10:30 a.m.
September 24, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
CMH, Parkview Conference Room
507.474.3328
MOM Support Group (Mother’s Own Milk)
Wednesdays, 1:30–3:30 p.m.
Women’s Health Library, 3rd floor,
Outpatient Clinic on the Winona Health
campus, 859 Mankato Ave.
507.453.3700
Prostate Cancer Support Group
First Monday of the month, 7–8 p.m.
CMH, Parkview Conference Room
507.457.4491
Public First Aid
August 23, 5–7:30 p.m.
CMH, B.A. Miller Auditorium
Registration required, $25
507.457.4491
CMH=Community Memorial Hospital
Winona Health Auxiliary Events
Winona Health Auxiliary Birthday Ball
Saturday, September 8
Saint Mary’s University Toner Center
www.birthdayball.com or call: 507.454.3328
Glady D. Miller Gift Shop
Holiday Happiness
November 7–10, B.A. Miller Auditorium
The 3rd floor of CMH becomes a holiday
shopping wonderland featuring gifts, holiday
decorations, jewelry, baked goods, and more.
Winona Health Foundation Events
Ben & Adith Miller Golf Classic
Monday, August 13
Cedar Valley Golf Course
For information or to register: 507.474.3328.
Nonprofit Org
U.S. Postage
PAID
Winona, MN
Permit No. 72