Quad Cities Business News

Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley, & Dewey/Humboldt

You are here: Home / Archives for Dignity Health

Dignity Health

Treating COVID-19 with Monoclonal Antibody Therapy at YRMC

By Leave a Comment

Call your doctor as soon as possible if you are sick and believe you qualify.

Early treatment for COVID-19 infection with Monoclonal Antibody (MAB)Therapy for high-risk patients is available at Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC). To receive the treatment, patients need a physician order and an appointment.

What are Monoclonal Antibodies?

Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made proteins that mimic your immune system’s ability to fight off harmful viruses. Casirivimab + Imdevimab (Regeneron) are monoclonal antibodies that are specifically designed to protect against the spike protein of COVID-19. These proteins are designed to stop the virus from entering human cells.

In November 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an Emergency Use Authorization to allow the use of monoclonal antibodies for the treatment of mild to moderate symptoms of COVID-19. Further data has been published showing the benefit of reducing hospitalization rates in people at high risk for severe COVID-19 infection.

What are the Criteria for COVID MAB Therapy?

  •  A positive test result for SARS CoV-2 viral testing (COVID-19) is required.
  • Must have mild to moderate symptoms for 10 days or less.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age or older.
  • Must be at high-risk for progressing to severe COVID-19 infection and/or hospitalization as determined by your physician.

Who Cannot Receive COVID MAB Therapy?

  • Anyone still waiting for a COVID-19 test result.
  • Anyone who has received a negative COVID-19 test result.
  • People with symptoms for more than 10 days.
  • New or increased oxygen requirement, hospitalized patients.
  • People without risk factors for severe disease. (Some examples of risk factors may include age greater than 65, chronic lung or kidney disease, pregnancy and others. Your doctor can help you determine if you do or don’t have risk factors.)

How Do I Schedule an Appointment for COVID MAB Therapy?

  • Call your doctor as soon as possible if you are sick and believe you qualify.
  • An order must be sent by your physician to the Infusion Center at Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center.
  • A YRMC representative will call you to schedule your appointment once the physician order has been received. QCBN

By Ken Boush

Ken Boush is the director of marketing and communications for Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center.

Local Physician Recognized for Excellence  

By Leave a Comment

“I have a calling that drove me to help battle the pandemic in our community,” said Eckman.

Even without the challenges of the pandemic, Ronael Eckman, M.D. – recipient of the 2021 Excellence in Healthcare Award from the Prescott Chamber of Commerce – has an extraordinarily busy professional life.

Dr. Eckman serves as the chief medical information officer (CMIO) at Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC). She also cares for newborns and children at Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Group, Ponderosa Pediatrics.

How does Dr. Eckman feel about these demanding dual roles?

“I enjoy the balance,” she said. “My doctor time with my pediatric patients and newborns is very fulfilling. It ties me to the core of why I entered the medical profession. My role as YRMC’s CMIO allows me to interact with colleagues across all medical specialties and the hospital’s administrative leadership. I enjoy working with computer technology to optimize and manage how we care for patients.”

Innovative Solutions During COVID-19

Enter 2020 and COVID-19, and Eckman’s knowledge of medicine, computer technology and data analysis became even more essential to YRMC. She participated in important planning sessions, during which YRMC decisionmakers strategized ways to care for COVID-19 patients.

“From the beginning of COVID-19, Dr. Eckman was immersed in YRMC’s response to the pandemic,” said Dignity Health, YRMC Director of Marketing and Communications Ken Boush. “She was at the center of every innovative response developed to care for the people of our community. Her passion and dedication make her the best choice for the 2021 Prescott Chamber’s Excellence in Healthcare Award.”

Those innovative responses, which tapped technology to care for COVID-19 patients, include:

Remote Monitoring and Collaboration with Community Partners

This allows COVID-19 patients experiencing fewer symptoms to go home with support instead of being hospitalized. These patients have 24/7 access to registered nurses via an app and home visits from a paramedic as needed. This program – part of the Community Health Partners collaboration with Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority – has served more than 1,500 COVID-19 patients. (Patients without a smartphone were provided a tablet in order to participate.)

Community Vaccination

From Jan. 20 – May 15, 2021, 48,000 vaccines were administered at the site of the vacant Sears building in Prescott. This effort – overseen by Dr. Eckman – included a team of over 500 volunteers.

Monoclonal Antibody Therapy

People 65 years old and older, and those in fragile health, receive this COVID-19 treatment at YRMC’s Infusion Center and Emergency Department, thanks to Dr. Eckman’s efforts.

“I have a calling that drove me to help battle the pandemic in our community,” said Eckman. “I’m fortunate to work for an organization with colleagues who share my passion for battling the pandemic. This ensured YRMC’s ability to care for the community and afforded me the latitude and resources to pursue innovative ways to do so.”

Coming Home

Eckman – whose family has called Yavapai County home for generations – returned to the community in 2010 to join YRMG, Ponderosa Pediatrics. “This is such an amazing and beautiful community,” she said. “My husband and I are grateful to raise our children here and for my work at YRMG, Ponderosa Pediatrics and YRMC.” QCBN

Orthopedic Surgeon Brings New Level of Specialization to Yavapai County

By Leave a Comment

Dr. Weisstein will see patients in his primary location in Prescott and also will have office hours in Prescott Valley.

Orthopedic surgeon Jason Weisstein, M.D., MPH, FACS, is joining Yavapai Regional Medical Group (YRMG), Orthopedic Surgery, bringing to Yavapai County new, specialized orthopedic surgical expertise and expanding the availability of current, important services.

“Dr. Weisstein specializes in joint replacement and limb salvage surgery,” said Ken Boush, Yavapai Regional Medical Center director of marketing and communications at Dignity Health. “His work helps people whose limbs are compromised by arthritis, fractures or tumors, for example, regain lost function. The addition of this life-changing surgery takes the exceptional YRMG Orthopedic Surgery program to another level of specialization.”

Orthopedic Surgical Specialties

Before joining YRMG, Orthopedic Surgery Dr. Weisstein led and directed many excellent joint replacement programs, including the internationally acclaimed Paley Orthopedic & Spine Institute in West Palm Beach, Florida and Eisenhower Medical Center in Rancho Mirage, California. He continues to teach other orthopedic surgeons both regionally and nationally.

Weisstein – who is certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery – is experienced with the latest orthopedic surgical techniques. He performs these specialized procedures and more:

  • Direct anterior hip replacement
  • Robotic partial and total knee replacement
  • Minimally invasive total hip and total knee replacement
  • Hip and knee revision surgery to repair damaged artificial joints
  • Limb salvage surgery for tumors, infections and fractures
  • Hip resurfacing

Educational Achievements

Weisstein earned his medical degree from Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City, graduating with Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Society honors as valedictorian. At the same time, he was also awarded a Master’s of Public Health from Columbia University in New York City.

Following medical school graduation, Weisstein pursued a surgical internship and orthopedic surgery residency at the University of California, San Francisco. This was followed by a fellowship in adult and pediatric orthopedic oncology and joint reconstruction at the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle. Weisstein also served as a clinical professor at both the University of Washington’s Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine and Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine.

Contact Dr. Weisstein at YRMG, Orthopedic Surgery

YRMG, Orthopedic Surgery is among 27 primary and specialty medical practices operated by Dignity Health, YRMC. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Weisstein, speak to your primary care provider or call YRMG, Orthopedic Surgery at 928-708-4545. Dr. Weisstein will see patients in his primary location in Prescott and also will have office hours in Prescott Valley. QCBN

Outpatient Services Building West

1001 Willow Creek Road, Suite 1300

Prescott, Arizona 86301

Del E. Webb Outpatient Center
3262 North Windsong Drive, Suite B

Prescott Valley, Arizona 86314

The Outpatient Services Building West: Built for Your Health

By Leave a Comment

“We’re looking forward to serving our community in this outstanding facility.”

In late October, the much anticipated Outpatient Services Building West will begin to open in stages to serve our community. Located on the campus of Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center West (YRMC) in Prescott, this new state-of-the-art health and wellness center combines high-tech innovations with comfort and convenience.

“The Outpatient Services Building West is a patient-focused health and wellness center,” said Dignity Health, YRMC Director of Marketing and Communications Ken Boush. “The planning process we embraced – involving key stakeholders, exploring best practices and conducting a thorough needs assessment – resulted in an exceptional facility. Our team is proud to introduce the Outpatient Services Building West to our community.”

The Healthcare Services Our Community Needs

The Outpatient Services Building West will include a combination of specialty, diagnostic and therapeutic healthcare services when fully open. For patient convenience, a pharmacy and laboratory draw site also will be located in the new facility.

Specialists from Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Group and several YRMC departments will begin caring for patients in the new health and wellness center between October and December. Patients are encouraged to check online at YRMCHealthConnect.org/OSBWest for the latest information about their provider’s move to the Outpatient Services Building West.

“Our goal is to make the move as seamless as possible for our patients,” Boush said. “If your healthcare provider is scheduled to relocate to the Outpatient Services Building West, we recommend you call their office to confirm their location before leaving for an appointment. You can also check the YRMC HealthConnect online community for the latest information.”

The following providers are scheduled to move to the Outpatient Services Building West in 2021:

October 2021

Yavapai Regional Medical Group, Vascular Surgery – Phung Le, D.O., and team are scheduled to begin seeing patients in Suite 1200 on Monday, Oct. 25.

November 2021

YRMC Physical Rehabilitation Services – The Physical Rehabilitation team, currently located at 1112 Iron Springs Road in Prescott, is scheduled to begin seeing patients in Suite 1400 on Monday, Nov. 15.

December 2021

Prescott Cardiac Diagnostic Imaging – This YRMC service is scheduled to begin seeing patients in Suite 2400 on Monday, Dec. 20.

Preventive Medicine and Wellness (Pendleton Center) – The Cardiac Rehabilitation, Diabetes Education and Nutritional Consultation teams in Prescott are scheduled to begin seeing patients in Suite 2500 on Monday, Dec. 20. (Please note: Adult Fitness, Personal Training, and partner fitness programs – SilverSneakers, Silver&Fit, and Renew ActiveTM – will remain at their current location, 1112 Iron Springs Road in Prescott.)

Yavapai Regional Medical Group, Cardiology – Mansour Assar, M.D., Soundos Moualla, M.D., and team are scheduled to begin seeing patients in Suite 2300 on Monday, Dec. 20.

Yavapai Regional Medical Group, Cardiology – John Giardina, M.D.; Edward Ha, M.D.; Nisha Tung-Takher, M.D.; and team are scheduled to begin seeing patients in Suite 2200 on Monday, Dec. 20.

Yavapai Regional Medical Group, Cardiology – Marek Piatek, M.D.; George Rizk, M.D.; Phillip Tran, D.O.; and team are scheduled to begin seeing patients in Suite 2200 on Monday, Dec. 20.

Yavapai Regional Medical Group, Neurosurgery and Physiatry – Bradley Benson, D.O., and team are scheduled to begin seeing patients in Suite 3100 on Monday, Dec. 20.

Convenient Parking

Patients arriving at the Outpatient Services Building West may park in the adjacent parking structure. A convenient skybridge links every level of the parking structure to every floor of the Outpatient Services Building West. This allows patients to park and head directly to their provider’s suite for their appointment.

“The parking structure was designed in a way so patients and visitors won’t have an uphill climb to reach their destination,” noted Boush. “This will be especially helpful to people who have mobility issues.”

Community Gathering Spaces

On the first floor of the Outpatient Services Building, the Bistro Café will include a variety of grab-and-go meals, salads, smoothies and other healthy selections. Seating will be available in the building’s expansive main lobby or an outdoor patio with a covered canopy.

The new building features other outdoor gathering spaces. A 4,500-square-foot covered deck will serve as a location for YRMC-sponsored community events and other activities.

“Our vision all along has been to create a premier health and wellness center that also brings together community members and providers,” Boush explained. “We’ve achieved that by creating usable space throughout the building, developing wellness-focused features and incorporating technology that enhances communication.”

Those include, for example:

A demonstration kitchen for cooking classes – A fully equipped kitchen will accommodate healthy cooking and food-preparation classes.

A community room for health education presentations – This community education room includes partitions to divide the area into smaller classrooms when needed.

A sophisticated teleconferencing system – This virtual, secure system will support provider-to-provider communication and consultations among Dignity Health specialists, no matter where they are located.

Learn More

“The Outpatient Services Building West was built for the health of our community,” Boush said. “We’re looking forward to serving our community in this outstanding facility.”

To learn more, visit the Outpatient Services Building West community at YRMCHealthConnect.org/OSBWest. QCBN

Northern Arizona’s First Cognitive Assessment, Support Clinic Opens

By Leave a Comment

“In my work, I’ve found that as people age, they want to be fully engaged in life both physically and mentally,” said Dr. Downing.

A lost set of keys, a missed dental appointment, forgetting the name of an acquaintance – these may be signs of normal aging. Coupled with other symptoms, however, they may also signal the start of dementia or other conditions that could be mistaken for dementia early on – amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), depression, Parkinson’s disease or even a small stroke.

These “neurocognitive conditions” all affect a person’s ability to think and reason. They also can’t be diagnosed with a simple blood test or during a 30-minute doctor’s appointment. Accurately diagnosing a neurocognitive condition requires a comprehensive evaluation by a multi-disciplinary team of healthcare experts.

Thanks to Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Group, that important service is now available in our community. The Cognitive Assessment and Support Clinic – the first of its kind in Northern Arizona – was launched Aug. 4. The new clinic brings together the expert team needed to conduct comprehensive cognitive (brain) assessments all under one roof.

Why a Cognitive Assessment and Support Clinic?
Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Group Director of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine Sam Downing, M.D., is leading the team that developed the Cognitive Assessment and Support Clinic. The Cognitive Assessment and Support Clinic fills an important community need for our aging population. In Yavapai County, approximately 32% of the population is 65 years of age or older, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That’s significantly higher than Arizona’s statewide average of 18%.

In addition to supporting the needs of an aging population, the Cognitive Assessment and Support Clinic also reflects a new approach to cognitive health in the healthcare community.

“We know that people can suffer from different kinds of organ failure,” explained Dr. Downing. “Heart failure occurs if the heart isn’t pumping as effectively as it should. Some people experience liver failure or kidney failure. So, it makes sense that we can also experience brain failure. This is the brain’s decline over time, possibly related to aging but also possibly due to disease processes that keep the brain from functioning as it should.”

A 360-Degree Check of Your Brain Health
What does an evaluation at the Cognitive Assessment and Support Clinic include? The assessments take place over a three-hour appointment and feature an array of tests, screenings and exams, including:

Neurocognitive test – This exam is conducted by a neuropsychologist – an expert at the relationship between the brain, behavior and cognitive function in multiple areas including memory, orientation, language and executive functioning. “A major benefit of the neurocognitive exam is that it serves as a baseline to measure any future changes in brain function,” said Downing.

Physical exam – A primary care physician conducts a physical exam and recommends screenings and tests the patient needs. This physical may identify causes for memory issues unrelated to dementia, such as lack of vitamin B-12, other medical issues or mental health conditions. “The Cognitive Assessment and Support Clinic team will work with partners in the community on behalf of patients,” said Downing. “If we identify an issue like depression, for example, we’ll reach out to local mental health partners – psychologists and counseling colleagues – to arrange assistance for the patient.”

Medication evaluation – The risks, benefits, side effects and interactions of the patient’s medications – from over-the-counter to prescription – are reviewed by a clinical pharmacist. “Often, we find that seniors are not only taking way too many medicines, but many are confused about how to take their medications correctly,” noted Dr. Downing. “The Cognitive Assessment and Support Clinic is a great opportunity to sort that out for people.”

Social impacts – A social worker talks to the patient and family about their current living situation: work status, means of transportation, financial management and more. “This portion of the cognitive assessment is especially helpful for families and caregivers, who unfortunately are often overlooked,” Dr. Downing said. “Our social worker will identify people who need additional support at home and recommends valuable resources.”

Functional assessment – A check of the patient for balance problems and any difficulty with walking, as these issues pose an obvious safety risk and are also an indicator of certain neurocognitive conditions.

Nutritional assessment – The link between diet and brain health has been established by extensive research. The assessment includes a clinical review of the patient’s diet and how diet can support brain health.

Sensory evaluation – Vision and hearing loss are part of aging, but when unaddressed, they can affect the brain, lead to social isolation and even contribute to dementia. “Early Alzheimer’s disease is often associated with a loss of smell,” Dr. Downing said. “That’s one reason a sensory screening is important to a cognitive assessment.”

Getting Results
Following an evaluation at the Cognitive Assessment and Support Clinic, patients and the providers they designate will receive a report of the team’s findings. The report will include specific recommendations for follow up.

“In my work, I’ve found that as people age, they want to be fully engaged in life both physically and mentally,” said Dr. Downing. “They want a quality of life that endures. Supporting that goal is the overarching purpose of the Cognitive Assessment and Support Clinic.”

To learn more about the Cognitive Assessment and Support Clinic and other YRMC Geriatric Services, contact Geriatric Services at Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Group, at 928-775-5567.

Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Group Welcomes New Orthopedic Surgeon

By Leave a Comment

“I’m thrilled and honored to join the exceptional YRMG Orthopedic Surgery team,” said Keller.

Accomplished orthopedic surgeon Greg S. Keller, M.D., FABOS recently joined Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Group (YRMG), Orthopedic Surgery in Prescott. YRMG Orthopedic Surgery is one of 27 primary and specialty medical practices operated by Dignity Health, YRMG throughout the Quad Cities.

“Serving the orthopedic surgery needs of people in Yavapai County is a priority for Yavapai Regional Medical Group,” said Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC) Director of Marketing and Communications Ken Boush. “We’re delighted to expand this much-needed service as well as to introduce our community to an immensely talented orthopedic surgeon.”

Orthopedic Surgery Specialties

Dr. Keller comes to YRMG from the Phoenix area, where he was affiliated with Dignity Health, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center. His subspecialties include:

  • Arthroscopy
  • Knee reconstruction
  • Shoulder and elbow surgery
  • Sports medicine
  • Upper/lower extremity trauma

“Orthopedic surgery is an incredibly satisfying medical specialty,” Dr. Keller said. “In my specialty, we’re not just helping people regain their mobility, range of motion or strength. We’re helping them regain their lives. It’s a privilege to be part of medical specialty that has such a positive impact on patients’ lives.”

Keller is a strong believer in a team approach to care. To him, that means bringing together the entire orthopedic team – surgeons, nurses, physical rehabilitation therapists and more – to heal patients. This same philosophy is the cornerstone of patient care at YRMG Orthopedic Surgery, which also includes skilled orthopedic surgeon Francisco Jaume, D.O.

“I’m thrilled and honored to join the exceptional YRMG Orthopedic Surgery team,” said Keller.

Educational Achievements

Dr. Keller earned his medical degree from Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine in Hershey, Pennsylvania. He pursued a residency in orthopedic surgery at Albany Medical Center in Albany, New York. This was followed by fellowships in shoulder surgery at Maricopa Medical Center (now Valleywise Health) and sports medicine at the Institute for Bone and Joint Disorders, both in Phoenix. Dr. Keller is board certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery.

“Teaching and learning are both very important to me,” Keller explained. “In my career, I’ve had tremendous mentors. I’ve tried to return that by sharing my knowledge and guiding future orthopedic surgeons.”

To that end, Keller has served in academic capacities for the following orthopedic surgery residency programs: Creighton University in Phoenix; Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, Pennsylvania; and Maricopa Medical Center in Phoenix.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Keller, speak to your primary care provider or contact:

Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Group, Orthopedic Surgery
3195 Stillwater Drive, Suite D
Prescott, Arizona 86305
928-708-4545

Bridget O’Gara is a writer, communications strategist and project manager who specializes in healthcare. She works with mission-driven healthcare organizations, including hospitals, other healthcare providers and advocacy organizations.

Straight to the Table

By Leave a Comment

“For us, it is a privilege to host this event at the farm and help support the business community and the Chamber of Commerce.”

The Prescott Chamber of Commerce Farm to Table Experience is being presented and organized by the Prescott Chamber of Commerce, with Dignity Health as the main sponsor. Mortimer Farms, the host organization, speculates that this, the fifth year for the event, will be the largest and most successful yet. The experience is scheduled for 5 to 9 p.m., Saturday, Sep. 18, or Monday, Sept. 20, if it is rained out on Saturday.

Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Sheri Heiney said this year will feature an expanded Business Expo for firms and organizations from throughout the Quad Cities. “We’re delighted to have a wide range of respondents from the greater business community participate in this unique event. They view the afternoon and evening as a memorable way they can share information about their business enterprises, while at the same time enjoy an informal and generally non-traditional way of greeting old friends and making new ones.”

Mortimer Farms Chief Marketing Officer Ashlee Mortimer, daughter of Mortimer Farms owners Gary and Sharla Mortimer, said they are already receiving inquiries from all over Arizona about how soon people can buy tickets.

“So many folks want to enjoy a business expo in what amounts to a rural environment,” she said. “They can order a complete meal, from salad to main course to dessert, where all the seasonal ingredients have been harvested that very day. That’s what our four hand-picked chefs are planning – that everything will be crisp, fresh and wholesome.”

Mortimer Farms Head Chef Brett Vibber has enlisted three other well-known chefs – David Duarte, Ken Davis and Paul Beatty – all with different specialties to help prepare food for several different stations, each with a distinctive culinary appeal such as Italian, Mexican, American and the like.

“But what makes it special is that all the food being served is truly farm to table. The chefs have hand-created menus based on what is in season at Mortimer Farms. In fact, it will be that morning that we hand-harvest all the ingredients we will use to create an event that is dedicated to the entire community,” said Mortimer. “For us, it is a privilege to host this event at the farm and help support the business community and the Chamber of Commerce.”

She explained that her parents both grew up on farms. When the opportunity came up that they could buy the ranch and farmland where Mortimer Farms is currently located, they jumped at it. They opened the food store in 2010. Growth since has exceeded expectations. “We are so blessed to be in such a supportive area.”

“This is a way we can thank everyone and express our appreciation for all that people do to make the greater Prescott area what it is,” said Heiney.

She noted that guests will have not only freshly prepared food but also live entertainment, exhibits where they can stroll around, hayrides, games and activities for all ages of children. Later in the evening, everyone can gather for s’mores and fondue next to campfires. There will also be wine-tasting opportunities.

Tickets are $50 for adults and $20 for children and may be reserved ahead of time. For more information, call the Prescott Chamber of Commerce at 928 445-2000. Mortimer Farms is located at 12907 E. State Rt., in Dewey. QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

YRMC Foundation Honors Granville Community

By Leave a Comment

Together may we all enjoy health, peace and happiness.

The Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC) Foundation recently honored Universal Homes and Prescott Valley’s Granville community for 22 years of generous support during a private ceremony at Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC) at the east campus in Prescott Valley.

During the ceremony, a commemorative display was unveiled bearing a special message for hospital patients and guests that reads, “Our Granville community welcomes you to this place of healing and health. Together may we all enjoy health, peace and happiness.”

Among those attending the event was Joe Contadino, owner and president of Universal Homes, along with key members of his team and members of the YRMC Foundation and Dignity Health, YRMC leadership. Speaking on behalf of YRMC was chief executive officer and foundation board member John Amos. In his remarks, Amos recounted how instrumental Contadino was to the establishment of the Prescott Valley campus and how his ongoing support has contributed to its continued growth.

Contadino and Universal Homes were a lead donor in the YRMC Foundation’s $8 million capital campaign to help fund the Medical Center’s construction. Since opening in 2006, the support of Universal Homes and our community has enabled the continued expansion of YRMC East campus programs and services including the Breast Care Center, Family Birthing Center, Infusion Center, Advanced Wound Care services, and the Vein Center. QCBN

By Ken Boush

Ken Boush is the director of marketing and communications for Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center.

Nominations Being Accepted for Prescott ATHENA

By Leave a Comment

QCBN and Prescott Woman Magazine team up to honor extraordinary women.

The late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg was beyond bright, fiercely determined and a tireless champion in the battle for women’s rights. She also was a recipient of the ATHENA Leadership Award, which honors exceptional individuals who have achieved professional excellence, contributed time and energy to improve the quality of life for others and helped individuals – particularly women – realize their full leadership potential.

Bringing the spirit of the ATHENA program here, Quad Cities Business News and Prescott Woman Magazine will be shining the spotlight on exceptional women who work, serve and inspire others during the 2nd Annual Prescott Area ATHENA Award celebration, 4-6 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 19, at Goods from the Garden.

“The Prescott Area ATHENA High Tea will be an afternoon of camaraderie, inspiration and networking,” said Prescott Woman owner/publisher Breeanya Hinkel. “The response from the community has truly been an outpouring of excitement and support.”

Last September, in a small outdoor event, QCBN and Prescott Woman announced Diane DeLong as the first Prescott ATHENA.

“Since receiving the ATHENA award, I have learned even more about the connection it provides to women throughout the world through their achievements in business, community service and the professional advancement of women,” said DeLong, the senior program manager for North Star Youth Partnership. “It is proof that we can, and must, all do something to inspire other women to reach their full potential.”

“Business leadership is about hard work, perseverance and dedication, but it is also about celebrating important moments and acknowledging extraordinary efforts,” said QCBN owner/publisher Troy Bix. “All of us owe a great deal of gratitude to women who have pushed through barriers with strength and grace, assisted and encouraged others along the way and demonstrated what it means to be a leader. We are thrilled to have this opportunity to honor and highlight these amazing women and their great accomplishments in our community.”

Early sponsors of the Prescott Area ATHENA Award include Dignity Health,Yavapai Regional Medical Center, Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce and Northern AZsocial.

Nominations are being accepted now through Aug. 1. Tickets for the Prescott Area ATHENA High Tea are $60 per person and $400 for a table of eight. For more information, visit prescottathena.com. QCBN

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

Dignity Health, YRMG Launches Alzheimer’s, Dementia Care Program

By Leave a Comment

The ADC program is an evidence-based program. That means it has been thoroughly researched and proven successful.


Deteriorating health and not being able to live at home are among older adults’ greatest age-related fears, according to a recent study of people age 55 and older. Look further and you’ll also find that dementia of any kind makes the list of medical conditions that seniors dread most.

The Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care (ADC) program – launched recently by Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Group – addresses these concerns and more. The program provides the infrastructure dementia patients and their caregivers need to continue living comfortably in the community.

“The ADC program is step one of a comprehensive Geriatric Services program that Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Group is introducing,” said Palliative and Geriatric Services Medical Director Sam Downing, M.D., with Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Group. “The ADC program is an evidence-based program. That means it has been thoroughly researched and proven successful.”

Customized Care Plans

The ADC program is coordinated by Christina Gettens, DNP, AGNP-C. As an adult gerontology nurse practitioner, Dr. Gettens brings knowledge and experience to the role of the ADC’s dementia care specialist.

“The ADC program focuses on living with dignity,” Gettens said. “Our goal is to positively impact dementia patients and their caregivers by providing exceptional, comprehensive care.”

Gettens will collaborate with everyone involved in the dementia patient’s care to meet that goal – the patient’s primary care physician and caregiver as well as professionals from community-based service organizations. Together, this team addresses the medical, behavioral, legal and social challenges that surround Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia.

A customized care plan will be developed by Gettens – with input from the patient’s primary care provider – for every ADC patient and caregiver. Gettens also manages the plan as it’s implemented and updates it as the patient’s needs change. This care plan allows people with dementia to remain in the community with their loved ones for as long as possible.

There’s No Place Like Home

Why is living in the community – at home or in the home of an adult child, for example – better for people with dementia? Nearly 70% of the more than six million people in the United States with dementia live at home. Studies show that these dementia patients are healthier, happier and live longer. It’s also a more affordable option for many people.

The ADC model of dementia management also reduces hospitalizations and emergency department visits, which are difficult for dementia patients.

Breaking Down the Customized Care Plan

The ADC program customized care plan features:

An initial 90-minute, in-person assessment meeting with Dr. Gettens, the patient and the patient’s caregiver. The team follows the CDC’s COVID-19 safety recommendations in your home and at the clinic.

An ongoing partnership with the dementia patient’s primary care provider to develop, implement and evaluate the customized care plan.

Information for the caregiver about reputable in-home services – nursing, home-health, meal delivery, cleaning and more.

Follow-up phone communication or in-person visits to check the status of the care plan and discuss if changes are needed.

Round-the-clock phone access to the ADC team 365 days a year for assistance and advice.

An annual or more frequent visit with Gettens to discuss the dementia patient’s ongoing and emerging needs.

Joining the ADC Program

Participating in the ADC program requires:

An active diagnosis of dementia – or a related condition – from a primary care physician, neurologist or other healthcare provider.

That the patient is living at home or in a home-like setting and is not in hospice care or a custodial nursing home.

A patient-caregiver team—husband and wife or an adult child and parent, for example.

Caring for the Caregiver

The ADC’s focus on caregivers is unique and, according to Gettens, essential to providing the best care possible for the patient.

“The dementia patient’s caregiver is a member of the ADC team,” explained Dr. Gettens. “Their involvement and observations are critical to the dementia patient’s overall health and well-being. That’s why in addition to caring for the dementia patient, our team also monitors the caregiver.”

The goal is to identify problems like depression as early as possible and connect caregivers to helpful resources. Caregivers who need a break may be directed by Gettens to agencies that provide respite care during the day or assisted living facilities that offer overnight stays.

A Benefit to the Community

At 32% of the population, Yavapai County ranks second among Arizona’s counties for the largest percentage of residents age 65 and older. Most people diagnosed with dementia are also in that same age demographic.

“The ADC program addresses an important need in our community,” Gettens noted. “I believe it will have an extremely positive impact. It’s exciting that we have the opportunity to make a sustainable difference for our community.”

Learn More

For more information:

Visit DignityHealth.org/YRMC (Go to “Medical Services” on the main menu and scroll to “Geriatric Services.”).

Subscribe to YRMC HealthConnect (YRMChealthconnect.org) for updates.

Contact the ADC program at 928-327-5504. QCBN

By Bridget O’Gara

Bridget O’Gara is a writer, communications strategist and project manager who specializes in health care. She works with mission-driven healthcare organizations, including hospitals, other healthcare providers and advocacy organizations.