Jeffery Curtis, M.D., cardiologist

Jeffery Curtis, M.D., and his colleagues at Hays Medical Center had been talking about ways to offer Great Bend-area residents even more access to cardiology services close to home. As a result, Dr. Curtis is now seeing patients at the St. Rose/HaysMed Specialty Clinic on a regular basis. His first day was May 23.

“We will be caring for patients with all kinds of cardiac issues at St. Rose,” said Dr. Curtis, a Hays native. “Patients shouldn’t have to travel for all their appointments or for some common tests and treatment. We are happy to be here in this beautiful facility.”

Dr. Curtis will see patients who have had heart attacks, as well as those with atrial fibrillation, arrhythmias, chest pain, congestive heart failure, blocked arteries, heart-valve issues, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

“We also monitor patients who have had pacemakers or defibrillators implanted,” Dr. Curtis noted. “And we can perform echocardiograms here at St. Rose.”

The veteran cardiologist is impressed that St. Rose also offers comprehensive Cardiac Rehabilitation Services on-site.

“The cardiac rehab program here is a real asset to the facility and to residents of central Kansas,” Dr. Curtis said. “Rehab is an integral part of recovery from surgeries and procedures. It is just as important as the medications we prescribe.”

St. Rose also offers three cardiovascular screening tests on site. Dr. Curtis’ home base is the DeBakey Heart Institute at HaysMed, where he is the new director of Cardiology Services.

“I oversee personnel and day-to-day cardiology services at HaysMed and our outreach locations. I make sure we have an adequate number of high-quality cardiologists and advanced-practice providers to provide the care and treatment patients need and deserve.”

Dr. Curtis has 25 years of experience performing angioplasties and implanting stents at cardiac catheterization labs.

“Angioplasties and stents revolutionized the treatment of heart disease,” he said. “These procedures can interrupt a heart attack, which can help save the heart muscle. This, in turn, can help prevent congestive heart failure.”

Dr. Curtis is a 1973 graduate of Hays High School; he earned a bachelor’s degree in general science at Fort Hays State University in 1977. He graduated from the University of Kansas School of Medicine in 1981, was an internal medicine resident at KU from 1981-84 and chief internal medicine resident there from 1984-85. Next came a Fellowship in cardiovascular disease at the University of North Carolina from 1985-88.

Dr. Curtis practiced general and interventional cardiology at Stormont Vail HealthCare in Topeka from 1988-2002 and at HaysMed from 2002 to 2013. He then practiced both internal medicine and cardiology at HaysMed.

Dr. Mohammed Janif, another DeBakey Heart Institute cardiologist, sees patients in Great Bend at Central Kansas Family Practice. Other DeBakey cardiologists are Dr. Byungsoo Ko, Dr. Rashmi Thapa and Dr. Javed Ashraf. Dr. Jerry Durham is the new cardiovascular surgeon.

When a patient visits Max De Carvalho, M.D., at the St. Rose/HaysMed Specialty Clinic, two topics are likely to be part of the conversation. These topics are “realistic expectations” and “quality of life.”

Dr. De Carvalho, spine surgeon, is the newest addition to the Specialty Clinic. His home base is Hays Orthopedic Institute at Hays Medical Center; he sees patients at St. Rose on the second Wednesday of the month.

If someone suffers from back pain, they don’t necessarily have to live with it,” Dr. De Carvalho said. “But you need to be realistic about your expectations. My goal is to let my patients know that some procedures and/or surgeries will improve their condition.

“The most important thing is to be realistic and know that you are not going to be able to lift 100 pounds,” he continued. “But if you want less pain, better mobility and balance, and the ability to perform regular activities, we can often help with that.”

Sometimes, unrealistic expectations occur because patients want the same results as those after joint-replacement surgeries.

“You might believe you can have the same results that knee or hip replacements provide,” Dr. De Carvalho said. “But the spine is different. We don’t replace the spine. In addition to procedures, we offer education and physical and occupational therapies to improve quality of life.”

In many cases, physical therapy is the first step to addressing back pain, the spine surgeon noted. Therapy and a change in activities might be the answer.

“But even if you have had back surgery and still have problems, we can re-evaluate the situation,” he noted. “Maybe you didn’t do enough rehab after the surgery. It is possible that another procedure or surgery can help remedy the problem. We can take a look.

“The overall goal is to enhance quality of life,” he emphasized. “That is what it is all about – quality of life.”

While surgeries are performed at HaysMed, most pre-operative and post-operative visits are at St. Rose, which is part of The University of Kansas Health System. Cortisone injections also are available here.

Surgical procedures involve decompression, herniated discs, fusion for deformation and other conditions. Some surgeries are minimally invasive. Those with questions should ask primary care physicians for a referral to a specialist.

“We know people prefer not to travel and we are pleased that we can come to St. Rose patients,” Dr. De Carvalho said. “It is so much more convenient for our patients and we look forward to developing new relationships in Great Bend and nearby communities.”

Dr. De Carvalho received his medical degree from the Federal University of Sergipe, Brazil. He completed his orthopedic residency at the National Institute of Trauma and Orthopedics in Rio de Janeiro, and fellowships in spine surgery at the Klinikum Karlsbad Langensteinbach in Germany, as well as a minimally invasive spine surgery fellowship at Wooridul Spine Hospital in South Korea.

Dr. De Carvalho completed advanced fellowship training in Orthopedics Trauma at New Mexico University in Albuquerque; spine surgery at Twin Cities Spine Center in Minneapolis; and pediatric orthopedics at the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. In addition, he has conducted research in Brazil and the United States, and has published extensively in orthopedic books and journals. He is fluent in English, Spanish, German and Portuguese.

His partners at Hays Orthopedic Institute are Dr. Gulraiz Cheema, Dr. Timothy Wright and Dr. Wally Walstrom.

When a physician recommends a colonoscopy, a patient may want to consider a big difference between this procedure and other cancer screenings. Colon cancer is the only cancer that can be prevented by screening.

Drs. Paul Teget and Jerod Grove, general surgeons, wanted to share this and other information about the disease in March, which is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

The surgeons, who are based at Southwind Surgical at Hays Medical Center, perform colonoscopies and other procedures at the St. Rose Health Center Surgery Suite. They also are in town regularly to see patients in the second-floor Specialty Clinic.

“Colon polyps, which cause colon cancer, can be removed during a colonoscopy,” Dr. Teget said. “Therefore, the procedure prevents cancer.

“Other types of cancer screenings are important to catch the disease early,” he added. “For example, routine mammography, prostate exams and PAP tests are always important.”

Dr. Teget emphasized that while other colon screenings are available, colonoscopy is the “gold standard. It prevents colon cancer and provides the only way of evaluating tissues when looking at the colon.

“Colonoscopies differ from other imaging studies such as CT colonography and barium enema procedures,” he elaborated. “A colonoscopy is the best option for several reasons.”

First, Dr. Teget said, there is no radiation exposure with a colonoscopy; this is unlike imaging studies. Second, colorectal cancer occurs in cells that line the entire large intestine and the physician can get a clear picture during a colonoscopy. The visualization in a colonoscopy is superior to other testing. And third, there is no method to obtain tissue or remove polyps during an imaging study.

“Therefore, if something is detected during an imaging study, the patient will need to undergo yet another bowel preparation, take another day off work and make an additional trip to the Surgery Suite.”

Dr. Grove said he and Dr. Teget realize a patient may be apprehensive about a colonoscopy.

“This is why we take the time to explain why we do it, how we do it and the small risks involved,” Dr. Grove said. “We also ensure the procedure is done safely and the patient is comfortable. Anesthesia sedates the patient prior to the start of the exam.”

Depending on the patient’s circumstances, a colonoscopy can take from 20 minutes to an hour. In some situations, it may take a little longer. Unfortunately, there are few symptoms of colorectal cancer, Dr. Grove noted.

“Everyone should be screened at age 50,” he said. “However, if there is a family history, the risk increases and the patient must be more vigilant. Those with a family history of polyps may need to be screened as early as age 20. If you have polyps, the type will determine when you require repeated evaluations.”

There were 134,784 new colon and rectal cancers diagnosed in 2012 alone. This caused 51,516 deaths.

“That makes it the third most common cancer diagnosis for men and women,” Dr. Grove said. “It is also the third most deadly cancer in men and women.”

While James McReynolds, M.D., discussed many aspects of end-of- life care during his recent presentation at the Great Bend Senior Center, one theme was evident.

“We should be thinking about end-of- life care now instead of waiting for catastrophe to strike,” Dr. McReynolds emphasized. “Health care at the end of life involves reflection and forethought so that you and your family are better prepared.”

Dr. McReynolds’ practice is at Great Bend Internists, which is on the second floor at St. Rose Health Center. He welcomes talking with his patients about end-of-life care; he is accepting new patients.

“We know this topic is uncomfortable,” he said. “And I am not suggesting you dwell on it. But it is important to plan ahead and prepare for difficult decisions. Planning means less anger, fear and regret.”

Dr. McReynolds outlined three options for consideration. One is a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order.

“If you don’t want CPR or to be put on a breathing machine, we need to know. Your DNR order should be given to your doctors and the hospital you use.”

Another suggestion is a living will that can direct health care without a surrogate.

“Maybe you want chest compressions but not a ventilator. Or maybe you are okay with IV fluids but not the insertion of a breathing tube,” he outlined. “You can be specific.”

A third recommendation is a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care Decisions. This is separate from other powers of attorney that deal with topics
such as finances.

“You should find someone you really trust and also consider a back-up surrogate,” Dr. McReynolds said. “Some family members may know what you want, but others may not. The surrogate is authorized to make decisions when you, the patient, are no longer able to make your own decisions.”

Dr. McReynolds emphasized that any of these three options can be easily revoked for those who change their minds.

“Another factor to consider is that when health declines, priorities and perceptions may change,” Dr. McReynolds noted. “You may think one way today but think differently when health issues are serious.

“Some people want to live a long time, no matter what. Others are more concerned with quality of life and want to maximize their time, even if it means they may die sooner,” he continued. “Many people don’t want to live if they can’t take care of themselves and enjoy their regular activities. There are no right and wrong answers in these situations.”

Because of the uncertainties of life, a stroke or other sudden illness, or a life-threatening accident can occur without notice.

“Such situations can happen to any of us at anytime,” Dr. McReynolds summarized. “Please take time to plan when there is not a physical and emotional crisis.”

Since Shannon Deines understands the whirlwind schedules of working moms, she wanted to offer an expanded service to make their lives a little easier.

Deines, imaging supervisor at St. Rose Health Center, is now scheduling after-hours appointments for mammograms. Beginning Feb. 12, Deines will offer the breast screenings on the second and fourth Mondays of the month.

Appointments will be scheduled every 30 minutes, starting at 4:30 p.m. with the last one of the day set for 6:30 p.m.

“Many of our patients have asked about making the appointment schedule more convenient,” Deines said. “Their work schedules make it difficult for them to find time for this important screening.

“I hope women will take advantage of this new opportunity for preventive health care at St. Rose.”

The best way to fight breast cancer is to find it early, Deines noted.  “And the best way to find it early is by having an annual screening mammogram,” she said. “The test is safe and takes only a few minutes. It could save your life.”

After-hours mammograms are scheduled only for screening purposes. They are not designed for: anyone with a history of breast cancer; anyone who needs a follow-up exam; or anyone with a particular breast concern.

“For these issues,” Deines said, “I may need to consult with a radiologist during regular hours.”

Deines added that she appreciates St. Rose accommodating this new schedule. “It is just one more example of our commitment to the health-care needs of our communities.”

St. Rose Health Center specializes in primary care, prevention and wellness. Services include St. Rose Family Medicine, Convenient Care Walk-in Clinic, Great Bend Internists, Imaging, Cardiac Rehab, Physical Therapy, Golden Belt Home Health & Hospice and a comprehensive Specialty Clinic. Hays Medical Center, which is part of The University of Kansas Health System, is the sole owner of St. Rose.

St. Rose Health Center complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age disability, or sex.

ATTENTION: If you speak a language other than English, language assistance services are available to you free of charge. Call 1–855-429-7633 (TTY: 1–800-766-3777).

ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1–855-429-7633 (TTY: 1–800-766-3777).

CHÚ Ý: Nếu bạn nói Tiếng Việt, có các dịch vụ hỗ trợ ngôn ngữ miễn phí dành cho bạn. Gọi số 1–855-429-7633 (TTY: 1–800-766-3777).

St. Rose Health Center provides cardiac rehabilitation for patients after a heart-related event but they also realize the importance of preventing problems from occurring in the first place.

Since February is American Heart Month, Shannon Deines, imaging supervisor, shared information on the three cardiovascular screenings available at St. Rose. She encourages the community to take advantage of these screenings to help prevent a variety of concerns.

“Each non-invasive test takes less than 30 minutes and the cost is very affordable,” Deines said. “Anyone concerned about cardiovascular disease is encouraged to call for an appointment.

“When screens detect a problem, we refer patients to their primary-care physicians,” she added. “When a problem is not detected, the patient can enjoy peace of mind.”

One screen checks for peripheral arterial disease (PAD) to help determine the risk of blockages in leg arteries.

“Those who are wondering about PAD might consider a few questions,” Deines suggested. “For example, do you have leg cramping, aching or fatigue when you walk? Do you have poorly healing ulcers on your feet or toes? Do you smoke, or have hypertension, diabetes or high cholesterol?”

A stroke scan also is available at St. Rose. This is an ultrasound test to see inside the carotid arteries in the neck. It can detect early signs of plaque build-up.

And the third screening involves a scan for an abdominal aortic aneurysm, which is a ballooning of the arterial wall that may cause the artery to burst.

A doctor’s referral is not necessary for any of these screenings, and the fee for each is $30. However, if someone chooses to have all three at the same time, the total cost is $75. Cash and checks are accepted.

“When screening results are available, we mail them to the patients,” Deines noted. “They can share results with their doctors.

“If any concerns are detected,” she elaborated, “we will recommend they follow up with their doctor for further testing. This type of preventive health care can go a long way to preventing or alleviating more serious conditions in the future.”

St. Rose Health Center specializes in primary care, prevention and wellness. Services include St. Rose Family Medicine, Convenient Care Walk-in Clinic, Great Bend Internists, Imaging, Cardiac Rehab, Physical Therapy, Golden Belt Home Health & Hospice and a comprehensive Specialty Clinic. Hays Medical Center, which is part of The University of Kansas Health System, is the sole owner of St. Rose.

St. Rose Health Center complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age disability, or sex.

ATTENTION: If you speak a language other than English, language assistance services are available to you free of charge. Call 1–855-429-7633 (TTY: 1–800-766-3777).

ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1–855-429-7633 (TTY: 1–800-766-3777).

CHÚ Ý: Nếu bạn nói Tiếng Việt, có các dịch vụ hỗ trợ ngôn ngữ miễn phí dành cho bạn. Gọi số 1–855-429-7633 (TTY: 1–800-766-3777).