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PA SER
Volume 4, Issue 4
October 2011
Inside this issue:
PA Student Highlight: John Shafik
2011 Shining Star Awards
D I R E C TO R ’ S C O R N E R
As we express our gratitude, we must never
forget that the highest appreciation is not to
utter words, but to live by them.
2
3—5
2011 Distinguished PA Award
6
2011 Gratitude Award
7
2011 Events Calendar
8
Through the
9
Midlevel Providers Referral Program
first decade of
our profession, New Hires
10
applicants to
~John Fitzgerald Kennedy
11
Job Postings
the PA programs were
mostly Medical Corpsmen. Our applicant pool has now
The month of November is a time of thanksgiving
evolved to, bachelor level graduates with little or no
and remembering. As November 11th comes
health care experience. Yet, the applicants are well inupon us I would like to take a moment to rememformed about the PA profession and embedded deeply
ber all of those who served or are serving our
within their communities. Yet as we move forward, with
Country as PAs in the Armed Services.
an ever increasing number of returning veterans, we
are again looking at how we can incorporate these well
I come from a family of soldiers; my Grandfather
trained, well experienced medical corpsmen and
in WWI, my Father in WWII and Korea, my broth- women into our PA profession. So, in essence, we may
ers, brother in laws and also my nephews and
be returning to our roots.
nieces. All of them served faithfully and valiantly
and a few are dealing with the repercussions of
What the future holds will most likely be a balance of
war.
front line trained medical corpsmen and new Bachelor
degreed applicants. Either way, our profession will conThis past October, we celebrated PA Week, retinue to grow in strength and numbers for the next decmembering the first class of PAs graduating in
ades to come.
1968. Yet, in November I think we should remind
ourselves and others, who those first graduates
As for today, with the history of our profession deeply
were.
ingrained with veterans it is most appropriate that we
recognize and thank those among us who have served
The PA profession began with Viet Nam Medical and are presently serving. To you, the veteran PA, I ofCorpsmen. Corpsmen who had highly trained
fer our heartfelt thanks and gratitude for keeping us
combat medical experience, selected to be the
free.
first class of Physician Assistants. Through the
vision of Dr. Eugene Stead at Duke University, a
new profession was born. What many of you do Carpe Diem,
not know is that our very own Dr. Charles HudJosanne
son wrote the first White Paper on the concept of
PAs in 1961. It was Dr. Stead who took this concept and ran with it.
PAGE 2
PA SERVICES NEWS
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
JOHN SHAFIK, PA Student
In this issue the spotlight is on John Paul Shafik, a second year PA student attending Seton Hill University in Greensburg, Penn‐
sylvania. John is currently rotat‐
ing at Hillcrest Hospital in General Surgery. John was born in Gallup, New Mexico but has lived most of his life in Baltimore, Maryland. When asked why he chose Seton Hill for his PA schooling he spoke of the schools’ 100% pass rate for the Medical Board Exams called PANCE and also their excellent record for training PAs. After inter‐
viewing and speaking with faculty and seeing the school, John knew it was the school for him. John has wanted to go into medicine since he was a young boy. “I was fascinated with Surgery as a young boy and was fortunate to be exposed to Field Surgery while stationed in Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan, with both 10th Mountain and 82nd Airborne Division's. I was trained as a Signal Officer with the US Army; therefore, I had to go back to school. My undergrad was in Political Sci‐
ence and I had only volunteer experience in health care. PA school candidates often had a few years in the health care field, so I decided to go to EMT school and also finish a summer internship as an Anatomist for a Surgical Training Center. I chose the PA field because it gave me the ability to practice medicine and be able to assist in the OR. I think one of the most valuable incentives of being a PA is that we can practice in so many dif‐
ferent areas of medicine and that is priceless for someone with a personality that enjoys new things.”
I asked John for an example of an ‘unusual’ or ‘awesome’ experience he has had during his PA schooling. He went on to share a recent experience he had at Hillcrest Hospital during his current rotation. “Dr. Bryan Michelow MD, a Plastic Surgeon took me under his wing for a couple days and really inspired me in the Surgical Arts. He taught me as if I was his replacement the moment I met him and allowed me to assist in every aspect of his Surgery. He taught me many things in the short time I had with him, but something that stuck with me was that, "Any good Surgeon does the operation three times in their mind, once the night before, during the procedure, and after the procedure is finished to see what you could have done better." I am really thankful for not only his time, but his pearls of wisdom. After graduation in May, 2012, John hopes to focus on the fields of Sur‐
gery, Emergency Medicine, and Internal Medicine/
Primary Care. His role models are his parents who were born in Egypt. In the Egyptian culture, Medicine is the most honorable of professions. His parents influenced his decision to go into a medical profession. John be‐
longs to a Masonic Lodge in Balitmore and hopes to become more active in it once he has completed his schooling. In his little spare time, he enjoys History, Science, and Freemasonry and enjoying Friday night dates with his girlfriend. In closing, John would like to thank his preceptor at Hillcrest, Lisa Geisheimer, PA‐C and the other Surgery PAs for teaching him the basics of surgery during his rotation there. Thanks also to the Surgical Tech’s, RN’s, CRNA’s and Physicians who allowed him to take part in their cases. “Thank you Cleveland Clinic for giving me the opportunity to learn at one of the na‐
tions’ top hospitals, it is a priceless experience for any future health care worker.” PAGE 3
Shining
Star
Awards
PA SERVICES NEWS
Judy Lewis, PA Manager, Fairview Hospital
Judy exemplifies the word outstanding in everything she does. In every challenge she looks for innovative opportunities to meet the demand. Even in the toughest of situations she remains composed and rational, utilizing all her resources to accommodate the patient and surgeon needs, always with integrity. Judy directly manages PAs who support 14 operating suites in the hospital, 3 operat‐
ing suites and PAT at the Fairview ASC, and handles any history and physicals needed in the pre‐op holding area, she always goes beyond her own surgical group to pro‐
vide professional leadership to the PAs in other service areas of the hospital. Dedi‐
cated to the safety of our patients she always puts the patient first in every decision she makes. Al Melillo, Center for Spine Health
Al is one of the hardest working and organized people I know. He routinely goes beyond his call of duty to ensure that all of the patients are provided the best care possible, and that all of the work gets done in a meticulous manner. He is extremely reliable and capable and for that reason he is often asked to assist with other practices aside from his own. He is a super PA! The continual testimonies from our patients show his value to our practice and to Cleveland Clinic.. Bridget Mansell, Orthopaedic Surgery
Bridget's work ethic is second to none. . Bridget works tirelessly to help improve not only the practice of Dr. Muschler, but that of the entire Orthopaedic Department. Bridget has met every challenge given to her with enthusiasm and completes all projects thoroughly. Bridget is a true Team Player and is always willing to help in any way she can. Bridget not only represents the PA profession in an exemplary manner, but is a true Ambas‐
sador for the Cleveland Clinic. PAGE 4
PA SERVICES NEWS
Shining Star Awards
Andrew Proctor, PA Manager, Euclid Hospital
Andrew is one of the finest and most professional PA's, with whom I have had the pleasure to work. He is hard working, dedicated to excellence and a true leader. He is always there for his coworkers and our patients. He is compassionate and treats every patient as if they are his first a Andrew volunteered to take the coordinator role in his department when the need arose. He is organized and efficient. He is present at all times and is constantly focused on providing quality patient care. Andrew treats his patients, our physician partners and his teammates as if they were his only concern. He does all of this with a positive attitude, a smile on his face and a sensitive but contagious sense of humor. Andrew is one of a kind. Mary Bauer, Internal Medicine
Mary joined Internal Medicine Main in 2009, and has earned the respect of her col‐
leagues and the Professional Staff, due to her extraordinary work ethic, her leadership in the department’s social and employee engagement committee, and dedication to put‐
ting our patients first. Mary’s approach and attitude have won over her patients and resulted in strong patient experience scores (YTD‐ % top box scores of 90% on would you recommend your pro‐
vider?*Open Comments below). She has brought a fresh perspective to the department’s problem solving and team‐building activities with a smile and a contagious enthusiasm. She has been a true asset to the Internal Medicine team. Michelle Murray, Wooster Cardiology
Michelle has a calming effect on patients and always maintains an air of professional competence. She deals well with a variety of personalities and has the ability to defuse tense situa‐
tions “Her attitude toward patient's and co‐workers is always kind and professional. She takes the time to really listen and is an advocate and cheerleader for patients and nursing staff alike. She has been a terrific mentor for new nurses and students, and is always happy to teach and answer questions” Michelle is a team player and is not above performing any of the clerical and administra‐
tive duties that require attention. Per Dr. Shafer, the last thing she asks him before leav‐
PAGE 5
PA SERVICES NEWS
Shining Star Awards
Athena Loughrin, Center for Brain Health
Creating a new program requires a vision and employees who are committed to success. Since day one, Athena has been an integral part of the CBH program. She has been in‐
strumental in the development of protocols, processes and educational materials for our patients. She has researched new services such as genetic counseling and state‐of‐the‐
art lab tests that will distinguish our program from others. She has been instrumental in orienting new physicians to the program and ensuring con‐
sistency in practice patterns in the clinic. Her kind and easy manner has made new staff feel welcome and has supported the feeling that coming to the Cleveland Clinic was the right decision for them. The NI does not have to look far for a stellar example of a CAREGIVER – we have it in Athena. Outstanding PA Team Award, Emergency Services
“A small group of thoughtful people could change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has!”
Lynn Pagliaccio, Laurie Adkins, Nicollette Critelli, Misty Garcia, Mallory Hampton, Angela Parente, Kinjal Patel,
Pamela Perozeni, Jennifer Sample, Paramjit Singh, Dale Turley
This PA team works with a high degree of interdependence. They count on each other and this makes them exceptionally solid as a group. Those who are tenured help to support those who are fresh, some act as role models and help to set the professional bar even higher. They bounce ideas off each other, cover for each other and show unwavering support for one another. This is done instinctively and without direction. They hold one an‐
other accountable and to a higher standard. This can only bode well for patient care. Each individual ESI PA truly contributes to the greater good of the department and their collective perform‐
ance has been nothing less than remarkable. We couldn’t be more proud. Outstanding PA Department, Lorain Pre-Admission Testing
Patricia Hirkala, Candace Beury, Maureen Gwynn, Lisa Hegemier, Miles Nelson
This team has without fail shown dedication and initiative regarding the care of the pre‐surgical patient and all that entails. This department has issued an open door policy with ALL surgical specialties to allow for same day scheduling for easier access and patient convenience. Fur‐
thermore, taking initiative in setting policy for CMS compliance, restruc‐
turing of the PAT department for optimal revenue and cross covering other services as needed by the Lorain Institute. One of the greatest compliments our department has received is when a visiting anesthesi‐
ologist says “Wow, you guys do a great thorough job.” I am most proud being a part of team that represents the highest integ‐
rity of the PA profession and the highest standard of patient care. PAGE 6
PA SERVICES NEWS
2011 Distinguished PA Award
HOWARD CHRISTIE PA-C
Respiratory Institute
2011 marks the 17th year as a
PA and colleague. His
knowledge base, assessment
skills, and verbal and written
communication are among
the best in the organization.
He is respected by his staff
physicians for his reliability,
dependability, flexibility, efficiency, and consistent superior performance.
Every time he takes care of a
new patient, he is an advocate for world class care and
our PA profession. He is a
great role model for PA's and
is a very nice combination of
kindness and professionalism.
He routinely accepts PA students in preceptorship as
well as prospective PA students for shadowing experiences helping to introduce
these individuals to both the
MLP concept and the Clinic.
He orients residents biweekly
introducing them to the Institute outpatient clinic and the
PA concept
He is genuinely humble, sincere, and very hard-working.
He is a solid instructor who
teaches with kindness and is
never demeaning to a student, an observer, or fellow
employee.
The Distinguished PA
Award is given to a PA
for outstanding service
and dedication towards
promoting the ideals of
the PA profession. This is
a peer recognized
award. PA’s recognizing
another PA.
He is a great team member
and keeps everyone's sanity
by stocking the most popular
candy dish in the department
with sweet treats. As our
"Candy Man", he has provided
that much needed sweet treat
on rough work days.
He makes the office rich in
culture with discussion about
current events, great books,
good movies, interesting restaurants and cuisine, and
sharing his baking talent with
us!
He is a genuine gentleman.
Please join me in congratulating
this years: Distinguished PA:
Howard Christie
PAGE 7
PA SERVICES NEWS
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
THE GRATITUDE AWARD
The Gratitude Award is given to:
DR. BRIAN BOLWELL
Chairman, Taussig Cancer Institute
In Special Recognition for his Enduring
Support and Advocacy of the
PA Profession
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
PAGE 8
PA SERVICES NEWS
2011 EVENTS CALENDAR PA FOCUS GROUP ROUNDTABLE Topic: Obesity and Osteo‐Arthritis Syndrome Wednesday, November 9, 2011, 7:00am ‐ 8:00am Building E, 3rd floor, E3‐53 MIS Conference Room Speaker: Bridget Mansell, PA‐C, Orthopaedic Surgery KNOWLEDGE SHARING MEETING (topic to be announced) Wednesday, December 14, 2011, 7:00am ‐ 8:00am Building E, 3rd floor, E3‐53 MIS Conference Room Supported by Merck
PAGE 9
PA SERVICES NEWS
$$$ Send a PA our Way and Make Extra Money $$$
Midlevel Providers Employee Referral Program
EMPLOYEES & APPLICANTS
WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS PROGRAM? All Cleveland Clinic Health System exempt and non‐exempt employees, EXCEPT Staffing and Recruitment and other recruitment based positions. Must remain employed at Cleveland Clinic during the cash award pay‐out period. THE APPLICANT YOU REFER: MUST include your name as the referring employee on their Application for Employment (NO exceptions will be given consideration). Cannot be currently employed in any capacity within Cleveland Clinic Health System. MAY be a former employee who left Cleveland Clinic Health System (Florida, Main Campus, RMP or System Hospital) more than 6 months ago. MUST be hired into a full‐time or part‐time Midlevel Provider position defined as: Physi‐
cian Assistant at Cleveland Clinic.. WHAT IS THE AMOUNT OF THE CASH AWARD I WILL RECEIVE? $1,500 cash award (after taxes) for the referral of a full‐time Midlevel Provider and $800 for a part‐time Midlevel Provider referral. The cash award will be paid out as follows: FOR FULL‐TIME: $500 after the completion of the 90‐day probationary period; $500 after six month's employment at Cleveland Clinic, and the remaining $500 after the completion of one‐year employment at Cleveland Clinic. FOR PART‐TIME: $400 after the completion of the 90‐day probationary period and $400 after the completion of one‐year employment at Cleveland Clinic. PAGE 10
PA SERVICES NEWS
NEW HIRES Leeanna Barr General Surgery Please join us in welcoming the following PA’s to Cleveland Clinic: Molly Kalejs Neurosurgery Karen Kirkwood Gastroenterology Amber Roehrs Pulmonary Christine Spiroch Wellness Institute Firdaws Laryea Adult Epilepsy Jill Sciko Regional East Neurosurgery Angela Knox Urology Heather Kellerman Plastic Surgery Susan Rojc Adult Epilepsy Jensen Lewis Otolaryngology Amanda Cross Cardiology Jacob Ehlers Lutheran Orthopaedics Kristin Fox Breast Center Lauren Wilson Center for Spine Health Ryan Adler Gastroenterology Erin O’Brien Cancer Center Melissa Kotik Emergency Services PAGE 11
PA SERVICES NEWS
MISSION
Josanne Pagel, MPAS, PA-C, RMT
PA Services Executive Director,
9500 Euclid Avenue, EB116H
Cleveland, OH 44195
Phone: 216-445-0626
Fax: 216-636-1848
E-mail: pagelj@ccf.org
To work with physicians to provide quality and accessible health care to our patients.
Tammela Jeffries, Executive Secretary
9500 Euclid Avenue, EB116D
Cleveland, OH 44195
Phone: 216-444-3968
Fax: 216-636-1848
Email: jeffrit1@ccf.org
activities for continual medical and professional opportunities, the Physician Assistants
Marie Hoppert, Department Coordinator
9500 Euclid Avenue, EB116T
Cleveland, OH 44195
Phone: 216-444-3091
Fax: 216-636-0973
Email: hopperm@ccf.org
http://intranet.ccf.org/
physicianassistants/
To continue our professional and personal development as Physician Assistants.
To increase awareness of the Physician Assistant profession at Cleveland Clinic.
PURPOSE
By disseminating information, increasing communication, and promoting educational
of Cleveland Clinic are committed to providing affordable and accessible quality health
care to all patients.
Our VISION is to offer the most professional and educational opportunities to Physician Assistants. throughout the world!
WORDS FOR THE DAY:
Remembrance: The State of Bearing in Mind
Job postings
For information, contact the PA Recruiters:
Lauren Forst , Director, Regional Physician Recruitment—forstl@ccf.org—216-448-8201
Lauren Smith, Senior Recruiter—smithl22@ccf.org—216-448-8208
Sandra Fedor, Recruiter—sfedor@ccf.org—216-448-8204
MAIN CAMPUS:
REGIONAL HOSPITALS (cont.):
Cardiovascular Surgery PRN (1)
FAIRVIEW:
Chronic Kidney Disease (1)
General Surgery PRN (3)
Gynecology Oncology (1)
Surgery (1)
Hematology/Oncology (2)
FAMILY HEALTH CENTERS:
Nephrology (1)
Beachwood: Internal Medicine/Express Clinic (1)
Neurology Surgical—East side Hospital (1)
Elyria/Chestnut Commons:
Neurosurgery (1)
General Surgery (1)
Nutrition Support—DDI (1)
Pain Management (2)
Plastic Surgery (1)
Independence: Express Clinic (1)
REGIONAL HOSPITALS:
Lyndhurst Campus: Integrative Medicine (1)
HILLCREST:
Medina: Neuro-Spine (1)
Cardiac Surgery (1)
Severance Center: Internal Medicine (1)
Pain Management (2)
Willoughby Hills:
PA Manager, Surgical Services (1)
Express Clinic (1)
MARYMOUNT:
Internal Medicine (2)
Surgery (3)
Pediatrics (1)