North Oaks Community Newsletter Volume 13 | Number 1

for the Future of Health Care in Our Region

Volume 13 | Number 1 | First Quarter 2011 | www.northoaks.org

“We are committed to enhancing patient satisfaction,quality of care and efficiency for the benefit of those we serve.”

–James E. Cathey Jr., North Oaks Health System President/Chief Executive Officer

Now Open: North Oaks-Livingston Parish Medical ComplexSee page 7 for more information.

North Oaks Medical Center Expansion Groundbreaking May 2010

North Oaks Clinic Building Construction Launch August 2010

North Oaks Surgery Center to open this SpringSee page 10 for more information.

2010 Annual Report to the CommunityNorth Oaks to Launch da VinciRobotic Surgery Program Spring 2011

See page 10 for more information.

2 North Oaks Community Newsletter | Vol. 13 | No. 1 | First Quarter 2011

North Oaks Health System is a community-based hospital organization that has proudly served the Florida Parishes since 1960. Facilities within the health system include: North Oaks Medical Center, North Oaks Rehabilitation Hospital, North Oaks Heart Health Center, North Oaks Diagnostic Center, North Oaks-Livingston Parish Medical Complex, North Oaks Hospice Agency, North Oaks Outpatient Rehabilitation Services, Magnolia Obstetrics & Gynecology Clinic, North Oaks Cardiology Clinic, North Oaks ENT & Allergy Clinic, North Oaks Family Medicine Clinics, North Oaks Multispecialty Group, North Oaks Neurology Clinic, North Oaks Neurosurgery Clinic, North Oaks Occupational Health Services Clinic, North Oaks Orthopedic Clinic, North Oaks Pulmonology Clinic, North Oaks Specialty Clinic, North Oaks Walk-In Clinics and Northshore Internal Medicine Associates.

“Recently, I had the opportunity to meet personally with many of our employees, physicians and volunteers to share reflections on our past and present and ideas for the future. I am encouraged by their enthusiastic dedication to patient-centered care as we sharpen our focus on the goals of unrelenting excellence in health care quality and sustainable costs. As we reflect on our golden past and our story of growth and strength, we foresee the opportunities of this new health care environment. Thank you for allowing us to care for you and your family. We are grateful for your trust and solid support.”

You are the Reason We’re Here

James E. Cathey Jr.,President/Chief Executive OfficerNorth Oaks Health System

“From dynamic leadership to our everyday heroes, this Annual Report demonstrates that North Oaks Health System strives to meet our region’s needs in a visionary, yet fiscally responsible manner. While this may seem extraordinary in today’s shifting health care environment, it is a testimony to the dedicated people of North Oaks. Drawing on the hospital’s half-century of experience in responding to the community’s needs, construction projects in Livingston Parish and on the North Oaks Medical Center campus are a major investment in the future for those we serve. North Oaks remains strong and committed to shaping the future of health care in our region. We are proud of our dedicated staff, and look forward with confidence as we continue our commitment to caring for the people of the Florida Parishes.”

Responding to the Region’s Needs

Note: “Annual Report to the Community” information is based on fiscal year ending 2010 data ( July 1, 2009-June 30, 2010) unless otherwise specified.

Guy Recotta Jr., ChairmanNorth Oaks Board of Commissioners

Board of CommissionersThe North Oaks Board of Commissioners includes: (seated, from left)

Chairman Guy Recotta Jr.; Eleanor Dixon Wells, PhD, BSN, MSN, RNC;(standing, from left) James L. Nelson, MD; Vice Chairman A.J. Bodker; and Blake Daniels.

Representing Hammond are: Dr. Nelson, who is a retired general surgeon and North Oaks’former Senior Vice President/Chief Medical Officer; Chairman Recotta, who is Clerk of

Court for the City of Hammond; and Dr. Wells, who is a retired registered nurse and educator. Representing Ponchatoula are: Vice Chairman Bodker, who is a retired high school principal

and educator; and Blake Daniels, who is a financial advisor with Edward Jones.

www.northoaks.org 3

Executive Management TeamMembers of the North Oaks Executive Management Team include: (seated, from left) Senior Vice

President/Legal Services Officer John Derenbecker; Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer Michele Sutton; President/Chief Executive Officer James E. Cathey Jr.; Senior Vice President/Patient Services/Outreach Paula Hymel, RN; (standing, from left) Senior Vice President/Human Resources Carolyn Adema; Senior Vice President/Rehabilitation Hospital Administrator Sybil Paulson, RN; Senior Vice President/Chief Medical Officer Robert Peltier, MD; Senior Vice President/Quality

Resources Sandy Patterson, RN; and Senior Vice President/Chief Financial Officer Shirley Hsing.

North OaksMedical Center2011 MedicalExecutive Committee

John P. Miller, MDChief of Staff

Jason B. Reina, MDChief of Staff Elect

Herbert G. Robinson III, MDMember-at-Large

Charles R. Ducombs, MDMember-at-Large

William C. Gilbreath, MDFamily Practice Chairman

David N. Oubre, MDMedicine Chairman

Elizabeth H. Fritz, MDObstetrics/Gynecologyand Pediatrics Chairman

Robert B. Kidd, MDSurgery Chairman

Thomas A. Reinecke, MDEmergency Medicine Chairman

North OaksRehabilitation Hospital2011 MedicalExecutive Committee

Randolph L. Roig, MDChief of Staff

Gerald J. Sparks, MDMember-at-Large

Hugo A. Valdes, MDMember-at-Large

Susan Zacharia, MDMember-at-Large

The Architectsof Health Care for the Communities We Serve

2,510Employees

• North Oaks offers several hospital- and hospice-based volunteer opportunities for adults, while the junior, student and Medical Explorer volunteer programs cater to teens and young adults.

• North Oaks volunteers generously gave 45,175 service hours that equal the efforts of nearly 22 employees.

• 49 percent of North Oaks adult volunteers have served for 8 years or more.

• North Oaks has been recognized as one of the 50 “Best Places to Work” in the Greater New Orleans area 3 years in a row, according to New Orleans CityBusiness.

• North Oaks welcomed 377 new employees last fiscal year.• Average employee tenure is nearly 6.7 years.

386Volunteers


38 177Physicians

representing

medical specialties and sub-specialties

14New Physicians joined the North Oaks Medical Staff.

A Healthy FoundationBuilt on a Solid Team

Update: Since July 1, 2010, 11 physicians have joined the North Oaks Medical Staff in the areas of Cardiology, Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Nephrology, Neurology, Neurosurgery, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Oncology, Orthopedics and Otolaryngology.

• Genesa G. Abel, MD Family Medicine• Brian Ashford, MD Obstetrics & Gynecology• Brandon K. Bean, MD Nephrology• Bilal A. Choudry, MD Neurology• Bryan S. Dudoussat, MD Orthopedics• Patricio S. Espinosa, MD, MPH Neurology• Jeffrey B. LaCour, MD Otolaryngology (ENT)• Christina Lopez, MD Cardiology• John B. Maylard, MD Cardiology• James M. Parker, MD Cardiology• William G. Plunkett, MD Internal Medicine• Jay R. Silverstein, MD Cardiology• Jonathan E. Weiler, MD, MSPH Plastic Surgery• Sousan Zadeh, DO Nephrology

2010 North OaksPhysician of the Yearand CardiologistJherie Ducombs, MD

2009 North Oaks Volunteer of the Year Bill Homayoun

See page 12 for our North Oaks Medical Staff Quick Finder.

2009 North Oaks Nurse Excellence of the Year Barrett Littel (above left)

2010 North Oaks Nurse Excellence of the Month for February Edna Scott (below right)

www.northoaks.org 5

Reinforcing the Patient ExperienceMore than 57,000 patient satisfaction surveys were mailed to North Oaks patients by an independent survey company. The feedback we received drove continuous quality improvement efforts and allowed us to see how we compare to similar facilities across the United States. Results show that North Oaks ranks in the top 10 percent of health care facilities in the nation for the following services*:

*Data is based on Press Ganey Surveys received July 1, 2009-June 30, 2010.

96% 95%

95% 92% 90%

90% 90% 90%

99%

99%

99%


Reinvesting in the Communities we ServeReinvestment, combined with the buying power of a 2,510-member workforce who lives and shops locally, results in a $221 million economic impact for the communities that we call home.

As a community-based hospital organization, North Oaks uses excess revenue to expand or improve health care services in the community.Payroll $131,992,497Uncompensated Care $48,188,754Capital Investments $17,142,000

$197,323,251$369,414provided in corporate

& community partnerships

2,970 Service HoursValued at $52,124

given by 341 North Oaks staff members at74 community events from May 1, 2009-April 30, 2010

1,164 Health Education Classes and Support Group Meetings

which reached over 18,000 people

more than 1,713 free ordiscounted health screenings

Screenings included: abdominal aortic aneurysm screenings, blood pressure checks, body fat analysis, bone densitometry scans, car seat

installation and fittings, cholesterol and glucose checks, grip strength measurements, heart risk assessments, peripheral vascular disease

screenings, screening mammograms and weight checks.

1,360 Free Physicalsperformed for student athletes from 28 area junior and

senior high schools and Southeastern Louisiana Universityat the 19th Annual Sports Medicine Physical Day

$65,596 raised in personal donationsand pledges by North Oaks staff members forcharitable causes and organizations in 2009

More than 3,000 items personally donatedthrough collection drives by North Oaks staff members to benefit

those in need, senior adults and U.S. military troops overseas

www.northoaks.org 7

Building the Future of Health CareNorth Oaks-Livingston Parish Medical Complex Now OpenOn Jan. 21, North Oaks dedicated a new 2-story, 47,000-square-foot outpatient medical complex to the citizens of Livingston Parish. The design of the North Oaks-Livingston Parish Medical Complex focuses on convenient, efficient and personalized patient care. It is located at the I-12 Satsuma-Colyell interchange in Livingston.

The complex opened on Jan. 24 with a full complement of outpatient diagnostic and treatment services including: cardiology, radiology and rehabilitation services, a lab for blood draws and specimen collection, a family medicine clinic, multispecialty group clinic and a walk-in clinic. There is even a conference center for health education.

If you need rehabilitation, radiology, cardiology or laboratory testing or treatment, tell your physician you would like to go to North Oaks-Livingston Parish Medical Complex to have them performed.

PhysicalTherapy (PT) Occupational

Therapy (OT)

PT uses physical activity to help condition muscles and restore strength and movement as patients regain function.

OT helps patients return to ordinary tasks by maximizing physical potential through lifestyle adjustments and possible use of assistive devices.OT facilitates independence through physical and cognitive training.

Speech Therapy (ST) and Audiology

ST aims to help those with speech or language disorders increase their levels of communication.

Audiology focuses on hearing disorders for patients of all ages through identification and evaluation of hearing loss. Our staff also can fit and modify hearing aids and produce custom ear molds for swimmers, musicians and hunters.

Sports Medicine caters to the needs of local junior high and high school athletes on the field and off. Athletic trainers provide emergency acute care and education for coaches, families and athletes. Therapists help players with severe injuries return to the playing field.

SportsMedicine

Rehabilitation ServicesOutpatient Rehabilitation Services will provide physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, audiology services and sports medicine services. An on-site fabrication room to make custom orthotics and splints, a sound booth to evaluate hearing loss and a courtyard with a variety of surfaces for patients to practice activities of daily living are just some of the unique features in this area.

continued on page 8


LaboratoryRecognizing that blood and specimen collection may cause anxiety, our three draw rooms feature extra-wide chairs so a “buddy” can accompany you to offer comfort and support. We also have a special procedure room and accommodations for pediatric patients. As demand grows, shelled space in the Lab will be utilized for on-site processing.

CardiologyCardiology services include EKGs to measure the heart’s electrical impulses to detect heart attacks or other abnormalities; echocardiograms to examine heart function chambers, valves and blood flow; stress testing to evaluate how well the heart handles work during exercise; and 24-hour cardiac monitoring.

Building the Future of Health Care: North Oaks-Livingston Parish Medical Complex continued from page 7

Computerized Tomography (CT)In a 20-second scan time, our 64-slice CT scans provide images to assist your physician with your diagnosis.*

Nuclear MedicineWhether used for cancer staging or heart disease evaluation, our Nuclear Medicine scans utilize unique processing software to administer tests in half the time of traditional studies.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)With flared openings on both sides for patient comfort, our MRI provides the

clearest and most accurate picture possible. Our MRI produces high-quality, high-

resolution images with reduced scan times.*

UltrasoundUltrasounds use sound waves to create images of internal anatomy. These tests can be performed to find abnormalities in the abdomen, pelvis, breast, arteries and veins. In addition, ultrasound is used to check the health of a mother and child during pregnancy.

Digital X-rayUnlike a traditional X-ray, digital X-ray produces high-resolution images in a

filmless environment. This technology provides immediate image review,

as well as the ability to apply special processing techniques to enhance the

overall imaging views.

RadiologyRadiology offers advanced diagnostic imaging technology from General Electric for CT, MRI, digital mammography, nuclear medicine, ultrasound and diagnostic X-ray. All imaging is digitally viewed and stored.

*Large windows in the CT and MRI suites provide you with a comforting outdoor view.

www.northoaks.org 9

The location of three physician practices in the complex gives patients the benefit of convenient and expanded access to diagnostic and treatment services.

North Oaks Walk-In ClinicNorth Oaks Walk-In Clinic is located on the first floor. Hours of operation are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekdays with plans to expand to24 hours as demand grows. Walk-In Clinics are staffed by physicians and nurse practitioners skilled at treating most illnesses and minor traumatic injuries for patients, ages 3 months of age to senior adults, with no appointment necessary.

No appointments are necessary; just walk in! For more information, call North Oaks Walk-In Clinic at (225) 686-4900.

North Oaks Multispecialty GroupOn the second floor, a Multispecialty Group provides appointments on weekdays from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. with a variety of physician specialists in one location, including: cardiology; ear, nose, throat and sinus surgery; internal medicine; neurosurgery; and orthopedics and hand surgery.

North Oaks Family MedicineAlso on the second floor, North Oaks Family Medicine has relocated from Walker. Phillip Ehlers, MD, and Nurse Practitioner Michelle Civello, APRN, will continue to provide comprehensive health care for patients, age 1 to senior adults, with emphasis on management of short- and long-term illnesses, well and sick childcare, annual physical and wellness exams, and routine screenings. Appointments are available as early as 7:15 a.m. through 5 p.m. on weekdays. Please call (225) 686-4930 to schedule your appointment.

Other North Oaks facilities in Livingston Parish include North Oaks Walk-In Clinic and North Oaks Specialty Clinic in Walker.

North Oaks first established a footprint in the area at the invitation of the Livingston Parish governing authority in 2004 throughthe formation of a cooperative endeavor agreement to provide local health care services for area residents.

For more information on North Oaks facilities in Livingston Parish, call theNorth Oaks-Livingston Parish Medical Complex at (225) 686-4800 or visit www.northoaks.org/livingston.

The North Oaks-Livingston Parish Medical Complex currently employs100 health care professionals with a$4.4 million payroll and a projected economic impact of $13.2 million

cycling through the community. Future plans are to employ 300 at the facility.

For an appointment with a North Oaks Multispecialty Group specialist, call (225) 686-4960. Hours of operation are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays.

Please Note: Walk-In Clinics are not a substitute for an ER when treatment for a life-threatening or loss-of-limb medical condition is needed.


North Oaks Medical Center will launch a robotic surgery program this spring with the newest generation da Vinci Si system.

Specifically designed to enable complex surgery with a minimally invasive approach, the da Vinci offers patients:

• less scarring• shorter hospital stays• less post-operative pain• quicker recovery times.

With this new technology, North Oaks will provide minimally invasive surgery for a broad range of procedures including, but not limited to, the specialties of ear, nose and throat, gynecology, gynecologic oncology and urology, according to Dr. Robert Kidd, chairman of the Department of Surgery at North Oaks Medical Center.

Surgeons operate with high-definition 3D visualization and an innovative wrist-like instrument.

North Oaks Surgery Center will open in Hammond this spring in the former location of St. Luke’s Surgicenter.

North Oaks purchased the facility from Symbian Healthcare on Dec. 31, 2010, and renovations began immediately.

“North Oaks Surgery Center’s opening addresses our immediate need for additional OR suites to meet patient and physician schedules,” explains North Oaks Vice President of Surgical Services Terri Lewis, RN. The center’s four ORs will bring the medical center’s total OR count to 12 and serve as a bridge until the North Oaks Medical Center expansion is complete in 2012 and its 14 new OR suites open.

North Oaks to Open FreestandingOutpatient Surgery Center in Spring

We are delighted that these physicians have chosen our health system. Join us in welcoming them to our community.

Physicians have a choiceof where to practice.

Sudheer Sankar, MD, NephrologyNorthlake Nephrology Inc.(985) 867-8585

Joseph Yale, DDS, Pediatric DentistryYale Pediatric Dentistry(225) 664-2646

Sachin Sachdev, MD, Nephrology(985) 340-7868

James Sholtz, MD, PsychiatryNorthlake Psychiatric Care(985) 875-7660

North OaksSet to Launchda Vinci Robotic Surgery Program in Spring 2011

“Many surgical procedures performed today using standard laparoscopic

technique may be performed more quickly and easily using the da Vinci Surgical System.

This is because the robot delivers increased clinical

capability while maintaining the same ‘look and feel’ of traditional open surgery.”

–Terri Lewis, RNNorth Oaks Vice President of Surgical Services

You can learn more about the benefits of da Vinci surgery from people who have experienced it across the nation at davincistories.com.

A variety of outpatient procedures will be performed at North Oaks Surgery Center, including but not limited to the following surgical specialties:

• cosmetic• dental• ear, nose and throat• gastroenterology• general surgery• gynecological• ophthalmalogy• orthopedics• pain management• urology.

Building the Future of Health Care

www.northoaks.org 11

Engineering QualityThe North Oaks Health System Value Analysis Team was recognized for innovation and resourcefulness in reducing costs, and is one of only three of Premier healthcare alliance’s 2,399 members to receive the award. The award acknowledges North Oaks for successful innovations that have created new levels of performance and competitive advantage while improving patient care and safely reducing costs. The total savings achieved by the Value Analysis Team for Fiscal Year 2010 equaled $2.5 million.

The Comprehensive Medical Rehabilitation Unit (CMR Unit) at North Oaks Rehabilitation Hospital provides high-quality, short-term inpatient nursing and rehabilitative care in a warm, caring environment.

Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), the CMR Unit at North Oaks is the only accredited rehabilitation facility in a seven-parish area which includes Ascension, Livingston, St. Helena, St. John the Baptist, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa and Washington, according to CARF’s current listing of accredited facilities.

North Oaks CMR Unit exceeds national and regional standards in the following areas:• Dressing• Memory• Mobility• Self-care• Toileting• Walking.

For more information about the CMR Unit, call (985) 230-2678.

Therapy IntensityThe CMR Unit exceeds the standards of care for the amount of therapy provided when compared to Medicare’s minimum requirement for acute physical rehabilitation units.

2.0

2.6

3.2

3.8

4.4

North Oaks CMR Unit CMS Requirement*Aver

age

Hou

rs o

f The

rapy

Per

Pat

ient

Per

Day

*Based upon the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services(CMS) Federal Register’s minimum requirement.

4.39

3.0

July 1, 2009-June 30, 2010

Hours

HoursCMRUNITNorth oaks

“My grandmother was treated wonderfully. Everyone was so caring and kind to her. She cried when she left. Thank God for people who truly take pride in their jobs and care about the people they care for.” –CMR Unit Patient’s Family Member

Walking FIM Score ChangeAs a means of benchmarking patient’s levels of function, the CMR Unit relies on Functional Independence Measurement (FIM) scores. These scores indicate how well patients progress with walking during their stay. CMR Unit patients make greater functional improvements in walking than similar patients across the nation.

2.4

2.5

2.6

2.7

2.8

North Oaks CMR Unit Regional Averages National Averages

As a means of benchmarking patients’ levels of function in walking, the CMR Unitrelies on Functional Independence Measurement (FIM) scores. These scores indicate

how well patients progress during their stay.

July 1, 2009-June 30, 2010

CMRUNITNorth oaks

2.8

2.6 2.6

Quality Health Care & Innovation in Reducing CostsEQHealth Solutions, the state’s Medicare quality improvement organization, honored North Oaks Medical Center with a Gold Hospital Quality Award for the standard of health care provided for heart attack, heart failure and pneumonia patients.

EMERGENCy MEDICINE (CONTINUED)• Thomas A. Reinecke, MD (985) 345-2700• A. Gayden Robert Jr., MD (985) 345-2700• Frederick J. Schouest, MD (985) 345-2700• Robert J. Sigillito, MD (985) 345-2700• Geoffrey K. Smith, MD (985) 345-2700• Jay W. Smith, MD (985) 345-2700• Stanley A. Smith, MD (985) 345-2700• David L. Toups, MD (985) 345-2700• David M. Wellmeyer, MD (985) 345-2700

ENDOCRINOLOGy • Harold J. Miller, MD (985) 429-8168

FAMILy MEDICINE • Genesa G. Abel, MD (985) 543-3600• Gregory J. Allen, MD (985) 386-6198• Michael A. Drapcho, MD (985) 230-5800• Michael A. Dunn, MD (985) 543-3600• Phillip H. Ehlers, MD (225) 686-4930• C. William Gilbreath, MD (985) 345-9606• Steve L. Gaudin, MD (985) 386-6198• R. Paul Guilbault, MD (985) 230-5800• Ted J. Hudspeth, MD (985) 543-3600

North Oaks Medical StaffQUICK PHYSICIAN FINDER*

ANESThESIOLOGy • Daniel A. Bayhi, MD (985) 345-2700• Michael A. Cordone, MD (985) 345-2700• Richard J. Grisoli, MD (985) 345-2700• Michael R. Maher, MD (985) 345-2700• Laurence M. May, MD (985) 345-2700

CARDIOLOGy • Frank J. Arena, MD (985) 370-7739• Marc Bernstein, MD (985) 370-7739• Patrick A. Delaney, MD (985) 543-3664• Jherie D. Ducombs, MD (985) 230-7350• Keith G. Hickey, MD (985) 370-7739• Bruce J. Iteld, MD (985) 370-7739• William P. Kopfler, MD (985) 230-7350• Christina Lopez, MD (985) 230-7350 or (225) 686-4960• John B. Maylard, MD (985) 543-3664• Douglas K. Mendoza, MD (985) 543-3664• Ghiath M. Mikdadi, MD (985) 543-3664• Claude T. Nesser, MD (985) 230-7350• James M. Parker, MD (985) 230-7350 or (225) 686-4960• Sushant B. Sharma, MD (985) 370-7739• Jay R. Silverstein, MD (985) 370-7739

DENTISTRy, PEDIATRIC • Richard D. Olinde, DDS (985) 892-5942• Thomas H. Wingo, DDS (985) 542-6855• Joseph Yale, DDS (225) 664-2646

DERMATOLOGy • Robert W. Benson, MD (985) 370-7768• Frank P. Henchy, MD (985) 542-9333

EMERGENCy MEDICINE • Dewey W. Blackwell, MD (985) 345-2700• Brandon C. Cambre, MD (985) 345-2700• Michael R. Christner, MD (985) 345-2700• Richard W. Foster, MD (985) 230-5726• Helen E. Gaines, MD (985) 345-2700• John B. Guidry, MD (985) 345-2700• Mark E. Haile, MD (985) 345-2700• Michael N. Harlan, MD (985) 345-2700• Douglas B. Hill, MD (985) 345-2700• Catherine J. Laborde, MD (225) 664-2111• Gary M. Mall, MD (985) 345-2700• Dennis J. Morris, MD (225) 664-2111 or (225) 686-4900• Geoffery L. Odom, MD (985) 345-2700• Greg E. Parker, MD (985) 345-2700

*Note: Many North Oaks Medical Staff physicians are independent contractors and not employed by North Oaks.



FAMILy MEDICINE (CONTINUED)• Michael J. Kozel, MD (985) 386-5943• Herbert G. Robinson III, MD (985) 543-3600• Gerald J. Sparks, MD (985) 543-3600• Edmund O. Spiller, MD (985) 230-5800• Hugo A. Valdes, MD (985) 230-5800• John A. Walker Jr., MD (985) 345-9606

GASTROENTEROLOGy• Dennis J. Booth, MD (985) 542-1334• Lawrence L. Gensler, MD (985) 542-1334• Gregory M. Mula, MD (985) 542-1334• Jason B. Reina, MD (985) 542-1334• Russell J. Wardlaw, MD (985) 542-1334

GyNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGy • Patricia S. Braly, MD (985) 892-2252

INFECTIOUS DISEASE • Michael K. Hill, MD (985) 871-0095

INTERNAL MEDICINE • Lance Caulfield, MD (985) 542-6251• D. Maury Drummond, MD (985) 542-6251• Charles R. Ducombs, MD (985) 230-7675• J. Rhea Jones, MD (985) 542-6251• George T. Keshelava, MD (985) 878-0066• Jay Kumar, MD (985) 230-7675• William G. Plunkett, MD (985) 230-7675 or (225) 686-4960• Nicholas C. Stevens, PhD, MD (985) 542-6251• M. Laughlin G. Winkler, MD (985) 345-4484

ObSTETRICS & GyNECOLOGy • Gary M. Agena, MD (985) 542-0663• Brian Ashford, MD (985) 542-0663• William F. Beacham, MD (985) 542-0663• C. Mark Berry, MD (Gynecology Only) (985) 345-2555• William G. Black, MD (Gynecology Only) (985) 542-0663• W. Jeremy Erwin, MD (985) 230-7650• James C. Hess, MD (Gynecology Only) (985) 878-1546• Dwan S. Mabry, MD (985) 542-0663• Timothy J. Mooney, MD (Gynecology Only) (985) 345-2555• Marya J. Porter, MD (985) 230-7650• Deborah L. Shuman, MD (985) 230-7650• Thuc B. Tran, MD (985) 230-7650

OCCUPATIONAL hEALTh • Mark S. Daunis, MD (985) 230-5726

ONCOLOGy• Greg A. Bizette, MD (985) 875-2828• David N. Oubre, MD (985) 419-0025• Alison M. Rome, MD (985) 419-0025• Sumathi S. Smith, MD (985) 875-2828

OPhThALMOLOGy• Michael L. Fajoni, MD (985) 345-0050• Eric D. Griener, MD (985) 542-3336

ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERy • J. Skelly Kreller, DDS (985) 542-9608

INTERNAL MEDICINE (CONTINUED)• Susan Zacharia, MD (985) 230-7675• Anthony E. Zerangue, MD (985) 230-7675

NEONATOLOGy• Ivan A. Villalta, MD (985) 345-2700

NEPhROLOGy • Brandon K. Bean, MD (985) 419-9939• Cheryl L. Brown, MD (985) 845-9000• Michele L. Larroque, MD (985) 542-6251• David R. Powers, MD (985) 419-9939• S. Tahseen Rab, MD (985) 340-7868• Matloob U. Rehman, MD (985) 878-1619• Sachin H. Sachdev, MD (985) 340-7868• Sudheer Sankar, MD (985) 867-8585• John C. Simon, MD (985) 867-8585• Daniel P. Tveit, MD (985) 867-8585• Kimberly S. Williams, MD (985) 845-9000 • Sousan Zadeh, DO (985) 542-6251

NEURO-OTOLOGy • Gerard J. Gianoli, MD (225) 293-6973

NEUROLOGy • Bilal A. Choudry, MD (985) 230-7525• Patricio S. Espinosa, MD (985) 230-7525• Pervez Mussarat, MD (985) 542-9441

NEUROSURGERy • David L. Masel, MD (985) 230-7400 or (225) 686-4960• Lori E. Summers, MD (985) 419-7767

North Oaks Medical StaffQUICK PHYSICIAN FINDER

ORThOPEDICS • Brett J. Chiasson, MD (985) 350-6505• Bryan S. Dudoussat, MD (985) 370-5656 or (225) 686-4960• J. Larry Fambrough, MD (985) 542-1533• J. Gregory Kinnett, MD (985) 370-5656• Robert T. McAfee, MD (985) 542-1533

OTOLARyNGOLOGy (ENT) • David M. Doan, MD (985) 345-3402• Jeffrey B. LaCour, MD (985) 230-2630 or (225) 686-4960• Nancy R. Mellin, MD (985) 542-9155• Jacques C. Peltier, MD (985) 230-2630

PAIN MEDICINE • Chad M. Domangue, MD (985) 892-8934• Mohamed A. Elkersh, MD (985) 345-7246• Jonathan D. Thompson, MD (985) 892-8934

PAThOLOGy• Joan T. Hoffpauir, MD (504) 889-2307• Stephen G. Scully, MD (504) 889-2307

PEDIATRICS • Francis N. Donner Jr., MD (985) 542-4950• Elizabeth H. Fritz, MD (985) 542-4950• Samuel A. Hickey Jr., MD (985) 542-4950• Chris J. Leumas, MD (985) 542-4950• Angelo K. Lobue, MD (985) 345-2180• John H. Overton, MD (985) 386-9911• Roger D. Rholdon Sr., MD (985) 542-4950

SLEEP MEDICINE • Lauren L. Davis, MD (985) 845-1799

SURGERy–CARDIO-ThORACIC & PERIPhERAL VASCULAR • Charles J. DiCorte, MD (985) 875-2828• Gregory J. Eckholdt, MD (985) 875-2828• Jose Mena, MD (985) 875-2828

SURGERy–GENERAL • B. Forrest Dugas, MD (985) 345-2727• Dorothy A. Lewis, MD (985) 542-1364• Daniel A. Linarello, MD (985) 345-2727• F. Jeff Liner, MD (985) 542-1364• Alan W. Manning, MD (985) 542-6444• Spencer P. Tucker, MD (985) 542-1364

UROLOGy • Ralph Vincent Kidd III, MD (985) 542-7766• Robert B. Kidd, MD (985) 542-1226• Bonadelvert C. Suarez, MD (985) 542-1317

WALk-IN • Mark S. Daunis, MD (985) 230-5726• Richard W. Foster, MD (985) 230-5726• Catherine J. Laborde, MD (225) 664-2111• Dennis J. Morris, MD (225) 664-2111 or (225) 686-4900• Howard J. Raphael, MD (225) 664-2111 or (225) 686-4900• Sidney L. St. Amant, MD (225) 664-2111 or (225) 686-4900

You also may visit ourFind a Physician online atwww.northoaks.org/docs.

PEDIATRICS (CONTINUED)• Jean G. Tran, MD (985) 542-4950• Leo R. Westmoreland Jr., MD (985) 542-4950

PhySIATRy • Randolph L. Roig, MD (985) 345-0033

PLASTIC SURGERy • Jonathan E. Weiler, MD (985) 902-7770

PODIATRy • John C. Allen, DPM (985) 340-0099• Joseph P. Dileo, DPM (985) 542-6251• M. Jay Groves, DPM (985) 867-9605

PSyChIATRy • James W. Sholtz, MD (985) 875-7660

PULMONOLOGy • Wesley M. Cook, MD (985) 542-6251• Katherine St. Amant, MD (985) 542-6251• Arvind R. Yertha, MD (985) 230-1580

RADIOLOGy • John A. Braud, MD (985) 543-0210• Roy DiVittorio, MD (985) 543-0210• E. Michael Donner III, MD (985) 543-0210• Edward R. Hernandez, MD (985) 543-0210• John P. Miller, MD (985) 543-0210• Randall E. Sellers, MD (985) 543-0210• Robert E. Smith, MD (985) 543-0210• Stephen M. Williams, MD (985) 543-0210

RhEUMATOLOGy • Malik C. Spady, MD (985) 340-7900

North Oaks Medical StaffQUICK PHYSICIAN FINDER


Call (985) 230-7777 or (225) 686-4899 to register for Community Education classes and Car Seat Fittings.For a full description of classes and support group meetings, go to www.northoaks.org.

Support GroupMeetinGS

AWAKe (Alert, Well And Keeping energetic) Support Group: 5:30 p.m.April 13

Breastfeeding Support Group: 6 p.m.March 29 & April 26

Connection peer Support Group (nAMi): 6:30 p.m.April 11

Diabetes Support GroupApril 5, 6 p.m.: “Refreshing YourOld Recipes”

Families touching Families—Filling the Gap: 10 a.m.March 26; April 9, 23

Group Living with AffectiveDisorders Support Group: 6 p.m.March 21, 28; April 4, 11, 18, 25

CLASSeS ForFAMiLieS & CHiLDren

Breastfeeding Class—FreeApril 7, 6 p.m.

Car Seat Fitting Station—Free*April 7, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. *By appointment only

prenatal ii Class:Labor & Delivery—FreeMarch 22, 6 p.m.

prenatal iii Class:relaxation techniques—FreeMarch 29, 6 p.m.

prenatal iV Class:infant Care (& tour)—FreeApril 5, 6 p.m.

prenatal V Class:American Heart AssociationCpr for Family & Friends— $5April 12, 6 p.m.

Cpr Classes*minimum 4 hours

American Heart AssociationHealthcare provider Cpr—$30(for medical professionals) April 6; 5 p.m.

American Heart AssociationHeartsaver AeD Cpr Class—$20(for the layperson) March 24 & April 28; 5 p.m.The American Heart Association (AHA) strongly promotes knowledge and proficiency in Basic Life Support, Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support and has developed instructional materials for this purpose. Use of these materials in an educational course does not represent course sponsorship by the AHA. Any fees charged for such a course, except for a portion of fees needed for AHA course materials, do not represent income to the Association.

Presentation for Women in Cancer Treatment—Free • April 18, 6-8 p.m.Look Good…Feel Better is a dinner program sponsored by the North Oaks-sponsored Cancer Support Group and American Cancer Society to enhance the self-image of women living with cancer. The program offers free makeovers and a take-home cosmetic kit, as well as practical, personalized advice about make-up and skin care, wig selection and upkeep, and creative ways to use scarves, hats and turbans. Registration is required. Please call North Oaks Outpatient Infusion Therapy Unit at (985) 230-1660 to register.

Look Good... Feel Better FreeMakeoversfor Women Living

with Cancer


Cooking Demonstration& Food Sampling—FreeMarch 25, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.In honor of National Nutrition Month, North Oaks will present a free cooking demonstration at Alack Culinary Equipment and Supplies, located at 17420 Hwy. 190 in Hammond. Participants will have the opportunity to sample recipes that are both nutritious and delicious, including an appetizer, entrée, starch, salad and dessert. Representatives from North Oaks Dietetic Internship Program will be available to answer questions on proper nutrition, informed food choices and sound eating habits. Registration is required. Please call the North Oaks Special Events Line at (985) 230-CALL [2255] to register.

Note: If you have bereavement support needs or questions, please call North Oaks Hospice at (985) 230-7620 for information on available community resources.

Volume 13 | Number 1 | First Quarter 2011

North Oaks Health System15790 Paul Vega, MD, Drive | Hammond, LA 70403P.O. Box 2668 | Hammond, LA 70404Phone: (985) 230-6647 | Fax: (985) 230-6138 | [email protected]

CommUnity is printed and published by North Oaks Health System under the leadership of the North Oaks Board of Commissioners.

The information in this newsletter is meant to complement the advice of your health care providers, not to replace it. Before making any major changes in your medications, diet or exercise, talk to your health care provider.

The mission of North Oaks Health System is to provide quality, personalized health care in a caring, efficient and financially responsible manner. Furthermore, it is our intention to work in harmony with physicians, area hospitals, businesses and community organizations to meet the health care and health educational needs of citizens of Tangipahoa and the Florida Parishes.

©2011 North Oaks Health System

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US Postage

PAID

Baton Rouge LA

Permit No 2035

15837 Paul Vega, MD, Drive • Suite 202 • (Located within North Oaks Diagnostic Center) • Hammond, LA • www.northoaks.org17199 Spring Ranch Road • Suite 210 • (Located within North Oaks-Livingston Parish Medical Complex) • Livingston, LA • www.northoaks.org/livingston

For an appointment or information on accepted insurance plans,call (985) 230-7400 in Hammond or (225) 686-4960 in Livingston.

Hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays.

North Oaks Neurosurgery Clinic specializes in the prevention, diagnosis,

treatment and rehabilitation of disorders that affect the entire nervous system,

including the spinal column, spinal cord, brain and peripheral nerves. In addition,

Dr. Masel specializes in complex spine and brain tumor surgeries, as well as

minimally invasive techniques.

North oaks Neurosurgery CliNiCis now open and accepting new patients.

“Thanks to technological and scientific advances in the field of

neurosurgery, gains continue to be made in our understanding of the

complexities of the brain and nervous system. Breakthroughs–like

image-guided, minimally invasive surgical techniques–provide more

options than ever before to best treat you. Together, we’ll find a plan

that works for you.” – David L. Masel, MD, FACS Board Certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons

“Let’s explore the options together.”

Dr. Masel also will be practicing with North Oaks Multispecialty Group in Livingston.

Documents

North Oaks Community Newsletter Volume 13 | Number 1