Monticello Live

The Drew Memorial Hospital Board recently met, and covered these topics, among others: (more…)

Air Evac helicopter picking up car crash victim on HWY 278 East. last November. It was Drew County's first on-scene helicopter transfer.

With the news of Tuesday morning’s helicopter crash near Clinton, followed by the release of the company name, some Monticello emergency workers began to wonder if they knew the crash victims.

The medical transport company who owned the helicopter is AirEvac Lifestream, which has 9 flight bases scattered across Arkansas, and is Arkansas’ largest air ambulance service provider.

Air Evac medical helicopters and personel serve Drew County, and have been seen at events like the MADD Mock DWI presentations at both of our local schools, and also performed Drew County’s first “roadside pickup” of a crash victim last November.  Air Evac also occasionally performs emergency transfers from Drew Memorial Hospital to Little Rock.

The team that lost their lives in Tuesday’s crash worked out of the Vilonia base, and the crews that generally serve Monticello are stationed at the Camden facility; but this tragedy still gives us a reason to stop and recognize the many emergency workers (such as police, firemen, ambulance staff, and others) who’s jobs many times put them in danger, while protecting and caring for others..

U.S. Senators Blanche Lincoln and Mark Pryor and U.S. Representative Mike Ross (AR-04) have announced that Drew Memorial Hospital in Monticello will receive a $99,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to purchase a digital mammography unit and other breast cancer screening equipment. (more…)

These photo show the road construction taking place on the north propertyof Drew Memorial Hospital.

Installation of a new roadway will be useful when the upcoming construction project at the hospital begins later this fall.

Wednesday, UAMS received a $102,131,393 federal grant – one of the largest ever received by an Arkansas institution – announced at UAMS by Rick Wade, senior advisor and deputy chief of staff at the U.S. Department of Commerce. In addition to the $102 million grant, UAMS and its partners are providing a 20.6 percent match of $26,450,427.

The grant will enable fiber connections and/or bandwidth upgrades in all 75 counties and in 135 Arkansas communities, including 81 Arkansas hospitals, all two-year colleges (four-year colleges are already connected), eight public libraries, all state human development centers, the state’s trauma network, community health centers, mental health clinics and home health agencies.

For more information read the full article on MagnoliaReporter.com

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Mike Layfield, CEO of Drew Memorial, presented their monthly report to the Drew County Quorum Court, Monday night.

Most statistics are up this month, as compared to the same time last year, and the hospital is above their proposed budget for the year, as well.

The modernization plan was explained, complete with drawings to show the different stages of proposed future expansion (see the video, above).

Dr. John Tedesko will be filling in as staff surgeon for Dr. Sydney Collins, beginning in September.  Dr. Tadesko will also perform cosmetic surgery, as sell as general surgery.

The recent independent audit report was completed, and found no deficiencies and no materal weaknesses.

At Monday night’s Quorum Court meeting, county attorney Cliff Gibson told the group that Senator Blanche Lincoln informed him last week that an earmark for $500,000 has cleared the committee process, and is in line to be included in the appropriation portion of the budget.

The money is designated for medical equipment, and should be available next summer.

Two heroes have been announced for the month, by Drew Memorial Hospital- Mrs. Kay Bates and Brittany Cox.

They were honored for going over and beyond the call of duty for no personal gain. Both helped a fellow employee for several weeks while recovering from an automobile accident. Preparing food, cleaning house, taking out the trash, transporting to Wal-mart, and to/ from hospital , even walking the dog, to mention a few of the many ways they volunteered their time to assist a fellow employee in her time of need. 

Great job, Kay and Brittany.

The monthly meeting of the Board of Trustees for Drew Memorial Hospital was held, Wednesday.

The final audited results for the fiscal year ending March 2010 were presented. Bill Couch reported that Drew Memorial Hospital’s income from operations was $1,567,662. This is a change over reported operating income of $811,567 in 2009 and a reported operating loss of (311,850) in 2008.

The timeline for securing the financing for the Phase 1 modernization is proceeding according to plan. If all goes well the bonds will be issued and construction will begin by December 1, 2010.

New offices in the modular building are close to completion. If all goes according to plan the new pre post op area should be completed by January 1, 2011.

The County plans to begin construction of the new road coming into the hospital, which will make room for the new allied health building, within the next few weeks. (more…)

The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) has had three more heat deaths confirmed by death certificates, bringing this summer’s total to four. The deaths have occurred over the last few weeks of very hot weather, but no other information on the victims can be released due to medical privacy and state vital records protection laws. In a new addition to established news release practices, the Health Department will be issuing any further information on the number of heat-related deaths in the state on Twitter, at http://twitter.com/ADHPIO.

(more…)

The American Heart Association urges children and adults to east more fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and fish/lean meats in order to achieve or maintain a healthy weight.

Here are some family-friendly dietary tips that can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.

1. Drink Fewer sugar-sweetened drinks.
2. Use heart healthy unsaturated oils (like olive, canola, or corn) instead of solid fats (like butter or margarine) when cooking.
3. Pay attention to the serving sizes and servings per container information on labels when choosing which foods to eat or buy.
4. Try to incorporate vegetables and/or fruits at every meal.
5. Eat fish twice a week.
6. Remove the skin before eating or cooking with chicken or turkey, and remove visible fat from beef.
7. Limit high-calorie sauces, dressings, and gravies. Order these on the side and use sparingly.
8. Use non-fat (skim) or low-fat milk and dairy products daily.

Re-printed from the Drew Memorial Hospital newsletter.

Drew Memorial Hospital recently revealed a five phase plan to modernize and expand the facility, with the goal of becoming a regional leader in healthcare. To reach that goal, the hospital has developed a business plan, a modernization plan and a master site plan. (more…)

Mainline Health Systems, who operate medical clinics in Wilmot, Portland, Dermott, and Eudora, opened their newest facility in Monticello, in the former McKeiver Clinic building, located behind Drew Memorial Hospital, Tuesday, July 6.

The clinic is equipped with current, state of the art equipment, such as digital x-ray, and electronic medical records.  Each of their clinics includes equipment that is often used in a ”mini emergency room” setting.

Mainline accepts all forms of insurance, and accepts all patients, with or without insurance, regardess of their ability to pay.  It is estimated that 40% of patients will qualify for some level of financial assistance, based on a sliding fee scale.  The lowest fee for visits will be $15. (more…)

Always read directions
Always have an adult present
Use fireworks outdoor only
Light one at a time
Keep a safe distance
Never experiment with fireworks
Never use near dry grass or flammable item
Never point or throw fireworks at another person
Have a bucket of water & hose handy
Never attempt to re-light or “fix” fireworks
Do not wear loose fitting clothing
Never carry fireworks in your pocket
Fireworks are not toys

The members of Drew HEALTH were assisted by the UAM Student Nursing Association in their efforts to raise funds for the RX Assistance Program. On Monday June 28, 2010 volunteer members made telephone calls to area businesses, organizations and individuals during the RX Assistance Phone-a-thon. 

The RX Assistance Phone-a-thon was co-sponsored by Verizon of Arkansas, which donated 50 cell phones and air time for the calls. Volunteers provided information regarding the RX Assistance Program and made requests for tax deductable pledges. Approximately $500.00 was pledged by individuals and local businesses.

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The UAM Student Nursing Association also provided a $1000.00 donation to the program, and are planning other fund raising activities in the near future. The Drew HEALTH Coalition must raise approximately $20,000.00 by mid-July or may be forced to close the program. The RX Assistance program assists individuals who do not have prescription insurance, as well as those who have reached Medicare funding limits, receive life sustaining medications at low or no cost. Since 2008 the RX Assistance Program has helped 151 residents fill 935 prescriptions at a cost saving of $518,500.00.

If you would like to learn more about the Drew HEALTH RX Assistance Program, or would like to make a tax deductible donation you can contact Karen Brown or Ruel Henry at the Drew County Health Unit at 870-367-6234, ext 226 or 229. (more…)

At the Drew Memorial Hospital monthly board meeting, last week,  discussion included the hospital receiving a certificate from Mable Gibbs, this Areas Loan Specialist with the USDA, signifying the approval of a $12 million loan through the American Recovery Investment Act and stimulus money. In addition, a certificate was received signifying the $66,000 grant to purchase equipment for the hospital. (more…)

Jeff Darnell has been named the DMH Health hero for the month of June.

Jeff Darnell, a member of the maintenance team here at DMH, has many skills that he uses to complete the daily tasks here around the hospital.

The most important skill that Jeff demonstrates is customer service. Jeff has been witnessed many times assisting patients throughout the hospital. Jeff does not hesitate to take time from his busy work schedule to assist patients with directions or assist patients who need a wheelchair.

Thanks Jeff for showing us how to show care and compassion for our customers. Congratulations!!

The Arkansas Dept. of Health issued a statement, Friday, about illnesses that seem to be tied to the Saline River.

Three cases of severe diarrheal illness have occurred in Saline County this month and have been linked to swimming in the Saline River near the Highway Five Bridge. The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) has tested water from the area and found it to be unsafe for swimming. (more…)

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The Quorum Court, Monday, passed a resolution to allow Drew Memorial Hospital to go ahead with loans, made an adjustment to the number of days to make a referendum petition for or against an act of the court from 90 to 30 days, resolved to adjust the wording in Article 7 of the Library Ordinance from special to general election, and resolved to separate the Drew County Sheriff and the Drew County Tax Collector for efficiency of services to the people of Drew county. The Court also approved of Judge Lampkin’s request to pursue $150,000 for renovations of the west end of the county court house from Rural Services for community Enhancement.

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In the Hospital report, Mike Layfield, DMH CEO, was pleased to announce the roof was completed last week.

Layfield went on to mention his intention for a 1.2-1.4 million dollar electronic health record keeping system. The hospital is looking at $24 million in phase one renovations.

To be included in phase one renovations are relocation of the hospital drive, additional parking, Occupation/Physical Therapy, Hematology/Oncology Clinic, Sleep Center, New Central Plant, ICU renovations, and 49 additional beds.

Judge Lampkin smiled as he mentioned, “For $5 million, you can have this building named after you,” to some of the quorum court members

Father’s Day is a celebration of fatherhood and male parenting. Father’s Day is celebrated on a variety of date’s worldwide and typically involves gift-giving, special dinners to fathers, and family gatherings. Also, remembering what our fathers taught us, both good and not so good. We usually tell special stories about our fathers, bringing to mind, why we love them so very much.

As you make plans to honor your father, stepfather, or forefathers; let’s all pause for a moment and think about what your father has done for you or is currently doing, in his role as a father. And all fathers, you need to think about your role too. Fathers play a very important role in the development and lives of their children. They are best friends, mentors, coaches, protectors; typically providing mental, physical, spiritual and financial support. A father influences the shape and direction of a child’s character and values by giving respect, care, love, discipline, encouragement, guidance, being there to just talk to, ask a question and leading through example. (more…)

Thursday, June 17, 2010 Mable Gibbs, Area Loan Specialist for the USDA-Rural Development in Monticello presented Drew Memorial Hospital with the Certificate of Appreciation.

This certificate of appreciation recognized DMH in our efforts to utilize $12,000,000.00 of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds to pay for phase I of the hospital modernization plan and to stimulate the economy. This Certificate of Appreciation was from Barack H. Obama, President of the United States and Tom Vilsack, Agriculture Secretary.

DMH also received a Certificate of Appreciation from Senator Blanche Lincoln, Senator Mark Pryor, Congressman Mike Ross, and State Director, Lawrence McCullough. This certificate recognized us for our efforts to utilize $66,000.00 in grant funds to provide quality medical equipment for the 18,823 citizens of the community.

Mr. Layfield hospital CEO said “this $12 million loan is a major step forward for the hospital and allows us to begin the first phase of the $38 million modernization plan. We are repaying the loan for the first phase , with our own hospital revenues”. New inpatient beds, outpatient service building and Surgery/Obstetrical unit are in the first phase. “and this is a giant step for the people of Drew County and surrounding area ,as this project will move DMH toward becoming a Regional Health Care provider , stimulating our economic growth with new jobs and assuring the best quality health care services for future generations”.

Pictured above from left to right: Mable Gibbs, Carl Lucky, Jim Searcy, Judge Damon Lampkin, Michael Layfield and Kelly Koonce.

Rob Allison, Director of Environmental Services at Drew Memorial Hospital, was recently named the Health Hero for the month of May.

“Supporting local community activities is part of our hospitals mission and giving back to the community is supported by DMH,” commented Michael Layfield, CEO of Drew Memorial Hospital. “Rob went over and beyond the call of duty, seeking no personal gain, volunteering several hours of his own time transporting supplies and arranging for the pick- up and disposal of biohazard waste for the ARMoM free dental clinic held recently at UAM.”

Allison was recognized for his service to the hospital at the May 26th Board Meeting. He was presented a plaque and a check for $100

Research shows that women are 100% more likely to visit the doctor for annual examinations and preventive services than men.

Men die almost 6 years younger than women, and suffer higher mortality rates for the top causes of death.

Approximately 30,000 men in the US die each year from prostate cancer.

The purpose of Men’s Health Month is to heighten the awareness of preventable health problems, and encourage early detection and treatment.

Drew Memorial Hospital encourages men and boys to seek regular checkups, medical advice, and early treatment for disease and injury.

To learn more, visit http://www.menshealthmonth.org

U.S. Senator Blanche Lincoln, Chairman of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee, Friday announced that the Drew Memorial Hospital will receive a $12 million Recovery Act loan to construct a replacement bed patient wing and a new allied health building.

“This funding will help the Drew Memorial Hospital continue to provide quality care to the community and surrounding areas. I am pleased that, through my role as Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman, I was able to help secure these funds,” Lincoln said.

“Approval of this loan will allow us to kick off the first phase of the modernization of Drew Memorial Hospital. This project will help us to better provide the highest quality health care services to everyone in Drew County and the surrounding areas,” Drew County Hospital CEO Michael Layfield said.

These projects will provide for fully accessible and modern rooms for area residents. They will also expand health services and education and training opportunities for the public and health care professionals. (more…)

Work began Monday to replace the roof on Drew Memorial Hospital. According to Ricky Tucker, Director of Maintenance, “Roofing of the flat roof stretching from the Administration wing to the Laboratory began Monday. Shingle tear off and installation will begin later this week. Roofers have been instructed not to begin before 7:00 a.m. as not to disrupt patient rest.”

Michael Layfield hospital CEO stated “this begins the first step of our hospitals modernization program and will improve the overall environment for our patients, visitors and employees”.

Visitors to the hospital are asked to bear with the noise and construction as we make progress. Also, to be to be careful, of the trucks and equipment placed around the hospital during the roofing project. The project is expected to take about three weeks.

FREE DENTAL SERVICES will be provided at UAM-Gibson Student Center,  Today and Saturday,   Doors Open at 5:30 AM. 

Volunteers spent Thursday setting up UAM’s Gibson Center to provide free dental services, including Fillings & extractions to anyone who is in line, and needs dental care.  CLEANINGS WILL NOT BE PROVIDED

125 dentists are participating in the event, along with a total of around 800 volunteers, including everyone from dental hygienists, to the many people who helped set up the facility into Arkansas’ largest dentist’s office.

The line began forming at 1:30 Friday afternoon, and had grown to around 10 by 7 o’clock.  By 2 a.m., approximately 50 were in line, some in chairs, and some came prepared with sleeping bags.

In visiting with the folks in line at 3 a.m.,I learned that they came from all areas of the state, representing all age ranges.

The process begins at 6 o’clock, when the doors open, and patients register in the Green Room, before they move down the hall to the screening and triage areas, where their needs are analyzed, and they are directed into the appropriate area of the gym for their treatment.  Treatment areas include children’s, filling, and extraction areas, as well as support tables to provide supplies and services to assist the dentists and staff.

There are no eligibility or income requirements  No appointments are needed, and services will be provided on a  first come, first serve basis.  Children and adults will be treated

Shuttle service will be available. Signs will be posted to direct you to available parking areas. (more…)

Eating a heart-healthy diet is important for managing your blood pressure and reducing your risk of heart attack, stroke and other diseases.

Toast whole wheat bread or a bagel & top with natural peanut butter & all-fruit spread for added flavor.

Try frozen whole grain waffles with sliced fruit for a delicious & satisfying breakfast.

Have you ever tried a tortilla for breakfast? Wrap up cold turkey & cheese, grab an apple & you’re on your way. Or, scramble one egg & three egg whites, sprinkle with low fat cheese & salsa, & roll up for a hot breakfast on-the-go.

Whole-egg or egg white omelets with fresh or frozen veggies are a protein-packed, low calorie way to start the day (carrots, broccoli, celery, peppers, onions & even black beans make great additions.)

Make a shake or smoothie. Blend fruit & low-fat yogurt with ice & a scoop of protein powder & drink it in the car. A side options is a small bag of finger foods, such as a mixture of almonds & grapes.

Re-printed from Drew Memorial Hospital Newsletter.

Article taken from DMH Newsletter, by DMH CEO Mike Layfield.—

Mother’s Day celebrations take place all around the world, although at different times. The feelings are the same no matter where in the world it is that you may celebrate Mother’s Day.

Children and their husbands love to celebrate Mother’s Day with their Mother’s (or mother of their children), showering them with love or remembering them with love. (more…)

DMH CEO Mike Layfield presented a report on Drew Memorial Hospital at the monthly MEDC meeting.

Topics discussed included a new outpatient service and specialist, new parking lot lights, finances, and an update on the modernization plan.

Since 2007, this presctiption assistance program, involving Drew HEALTH, has saved over $518,000 for local residents.

Here are the program details: (more…)

The DMH board held its monthly meeting, last week, and here are the major topics of discussions and actions: (more…)

The Drew Memorial Hospital Auxiliary recently presented Michael Layfield, DMH Administrator, with a check for $7,800 for 6 new chairs for patient rooms.

The Auxiliary raised the funds for the chairs through gift shop sales, jewelry sales, uniform sales, and their annual omelet breakfast.

Pictured presenting the check to Mr. Layfield are Regina Dunn, Joan Bordeaux, and Norma Hogue, Auxiliary President.

Mayor Joe Rogers recently proclaimed April 18 – 24 as National Volunteer Week in Monticello, Arkansas and urges fellow citizens to volunteer in the community.

Pictured with Mayor Rogers is Norma Hogue, President of the Drew Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, whose members logged more than 12,700 hours of volunteer service to the community last year.