HealthViews. poster child. I could be Ridgeview s. for robotic hysterectomies. News Classes Community Events

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1 HealthViews Summer Winter News Classes Community Events I could be Ridgeview s poster child for robotic hysterectomies

2 Back on track within days Entering her 50s, Teresa McDonald assumed she d experience all the typical symptoms that may accompany menopause, such as changes in her menstrual cycle and hot flashes. I knew menopause was going to be coming, said the Maple Plain mother of two teenage daughters. So it came as no surprise when, late last spring, she missed her period for three months. But then it started again and didn t stop. Emotionally, it was stressful, McDonald recalled. And physically, it was hard to deal with. So, after three weeks, McDonald sought the advice of Nancy Cooley, MD, Western OB/GYN Women s Health Center. McDonald s gynecologist for several years, Dr. Cooley first tested her for endometrial hyperplasia and endometrial cancer through a biopsy performed in the clinic; results for both were benign. A saline ultrasound then revealed that McDonald had multiple endometrial polyps. Difference between fibroids and polyps Endometrial polyps arise from the lining of the uterus and are always in the cavity of the uterus, explained Dr. Cooley, unlike the more common fibroids, which arise from the muscle tissue of the uterus and can occur in the cavity, in the muscle itself or on the outside of the uterus. According to Dr. Cooley, both fibroids and polyps can cause serious issues with menstruation such as excessive bleeding, which puts a woman at risk for anemia and other consequences. And, while the polyps themselves are often not harmful, and are not usually cancerous, the percentage goes up after menopause. Often there are various options for addressing both fibroids and polyps, said Dr. Cooley, however, given McDonald s health history, Dr. Cooley recommended a hysterectomy. The second most common surgery among women in the United States, hysterectomies are performed on over 600,000 women annually*. The procedure can be performed in one of several ways, depending on the woman s situation. For McDonald, Dr. Cooley suggested robotic-assisted surgery using the da Vinci Surgical System at Ridgeview. Robotic-assisted surgery Dr. Cooley provided a lot of information on my choices during this process, said McDonald, who admits she was nervous about the surgery, the possibility of a long healing process and potentially needing to take estrogen. The da Vinci method seemed like it would be the perfect fit for me, said McDonald. With the da Vinci hysterectomy most patients have less pain, require less time in the hospital and are back to most activities within two weeks, although everyone progresses at a different rate, explained Dr. Cooley. Laparoscopic procedures, like this, do cause less scarring than open procedures, and studies have also confirmed that patients experience less pain with laparoscopic hysterectomies than either abdominal or vaginal routes. McDonald s surgery was scheduled for Sept. 18. From registration to preparation to the procedure itself, It went really, really well, she said. So well, in fact, that at her six-week post-operative visit, she told Dr. Cooley, I could be your poster child for da Vinci hysterectomies. Yes, McDonald admits, there was some abdominal discomfort during her recovery, but it was more like soreness when I coughed, she said. She returned home the day after surgery, spent a day resting, and that weekend attended her daughter s volleyball tournament and a Vikings game. A week later, she traveled out of state with her husband. I m just so amazed, McDonald said of the surgery and her recovery. I feel fabulous. Select gynecologists from Western OB/GYN Women s Health Center, OBGYN West and Lakeview Clinic perform da Vinci hysterectomies at Ridgeview Medical Center in Waconia. For more information, visit www. ridgeviewmedical.org. * U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women s Health, womenshealth.gov Women s Services at Ridgeview Women s services at Ridgeview Medical Center are delivered by a network of medical professionals who meet the health needs of women at all of life s stages. Care is provided by family physicians, obstetrics and gynecology physicians and surgeons, certified nurse midwives, nurse practitioners, perinatologists, lactation consultants and more, through: Lakeview Clinic, Ltd. Western OB/GYN Women s Health Center Ridgeview Clinics OBGYN West Catalyst Medical Clinic To learn more about our medical providers, visit Below: Teresa McDonald, left, appreciates the surgical advice of Nancy Cooley, MD, Western OB/GYN Women s Health Center, pictured right. 2 Ridgeview Medical Center, Winter 2013

3 Take control of your end-of-life care Ridgeview Medical Center, recognizing that endof-life planning can be difficult, has introduced a program to facilitate caring conversations among family members. It s called Honoring Choices a program being implemented across the state in major health care systems. Modeled after an internationally acclaimed program pioneered in Wisconsin, Honoring Choices encourages family conversations, selection of a health care agent and completion of an advance care plan (health care directive). Family conversations are guided by specially trained volunteer facilitators. Honoring Choices was launched at Ridgeview in 2012 to replace its Five Wishes document. If you already have completed Five Wishes or any other version of an advance directive even those from other states they are completely valid and it is not necessary to complete the new form. According to Sue DeGolier, director of Volunteer Services and Honoring Choices volunteer coordinator and trainer, What makes Honoring Choices unique is the opportunity to complete the document with a trained facilitator someone who will guide you through the process and explain the benefits and risks of your choices in a way you can understand. For health care facilities across the state, Honoring Choices provides a standardized process and forms to reach a common goal of getting patients to complete an advance care plan. The forms and the support are free, and you are not required to have an attorney present for the documents to be valid. A A A A Who should complete an advance care plan? This document is important for anyone age 18 or older. Copies should be kept in your medical records and by your health care agent; you should also keep a copy for yourself. What happens if I don t complete an advance directive? If you choose not to complete this document, you will still get the care you need. Advance care planning will help you plan for situations where you: Can t make your own decisions Aren t likely to recover Had a major injury or loss of function (for example, a brain injury from an accident) It will also help you make a thoughtful choice when selecting your health care agent. What is a health care agent? A health care agent is an individual you choose to make health care decisions on your behalf if you are not able. These decisions may be about end-of-life care. How often should I review my health care directive? It is recommended to review your wishes every time you have a physical exam or whenever any of the Five Ds occur: Decade when you start each new decade of your life Death whenever you experience the death of a loved one Divorce when you experience a divorce or other major family change Diagnosis when you are diagnosed with a serious health condition Decline when you experience a significant health decline When will my advance care plan be used? A You control your medical care as long as you are able to make your own decisions. If you are not able to communicate your wishes or make your own decisions, your health care team will follow your wishes as outlined in your directive. See page 7 for details about Honoring Choices education How can a trained facilitator help? A Ridgeview facilitators are uniquely qualified to guide you through conversations and the process of completing an advance care plan. Some of our volunteers are retired nurses, social workers and clergy. Your facilitator will meet with you in the comfort of your own home to answer your questions and help you complete your directive. How do I get started? For information about initiating a A free conversation with a Ridgeview volunteer facilitator, call , ext For information about Honoring Choices, visit Ridgeview volunteer Cathy Bailey, right, helps Gene and Sandy Clapp, Excelsior, complete an advance care plan. 3

4 Paramedic home visi t lessens chance for return hospital visit Ridgeview paramedic Sara Burton reviews medications with Ronald Stutsman. In November, Ronald Stutsman, 81, of Chaska, was treated at Ridgeview Medical Center for three days to recover from a serious bout with pneumonia. Prior to his discharge, Ronald received a visit from his physician and a nurse. Each spent time with Stutsman in the company of his wife, Judy to review his new medication regimen and discuss specific instructions important for self-care at home. Stutsman then returned home. But what happens next? National statistics tell us that Stutsman has a nearly 1 in 4 chance of returning to the hospital within 30 days for the same condition.* According to Ridgeview emergency department physician Kevin Sipprell, MD, Emergency Physicians & Consultants, P.A., This has been an ongoing concern for the health care industry as a whole. Readmissions negatively impact health care costs and patient satisfaction. Ridgeview paramedics check in with patients In line with a national effort to reduce readmissions, Ridgeview has implemented a creative solution to help mitigate the problem in the surrounding community with paramedic home visits. After Stutsman was discharged from the hospital, he was contacted by a specially trained Ridgeview paramedic for a home visit to essentially check in. According to Dr. Sipprell, The most significant component of the visit is ensuring that the patient has and understands how to take their medications. We also want to assure that the follow-up appointment with the primary physician has been made and that the patient will be able to make the appointment. And finally, the paramedic reviews the discharge materials that were sent home to assure that the patient is well equipped to care for themselves and can recognize early symptoms associated with worsening of their condition. Equally important as recognizing these symptoms is knowing the actions to take should they occur; these are reviewed as well for the specific diagnosis. During Stutsman s home visit, Ridgeview paramedic Sara Burton reviewed the materials provided at discharge and specifically focused on one piece that offered guidelines to help with breathing. Stutsman s wife, Judy, appreciated the follow up care from Ridgeview. As a retired nurse, I know that there s a lot for a patient to take in at discharge, she said. It s good to get settled in at home and then have the opportunity to have instructions reinforced when you re in a better state of mind. A nationwide initiative Home visits are being implemented by health care organizations across the country but what s unique about Ridgeview s program is that existing paramedic staff is being used to fill this role and make patient visits while they are on duty. This program takes advantage of their standby time and The most significant component of the visit is ensuring that the patient has and understands how to take their medications." utilizes the paramedic s assessment skills, while keeping them available for an emergency call, explained Dr. Sipprell. For the patient, that means the home visit may be interrupted if the paramedic is needed for an emergency call, but if that is the case, the home visit will be rescheduled at the patient s convenience. By utilizing paramedics, no additional expense is incurred for the program, thereby helping to manage health care costs. It s a winning proposition for all, said Dr. Sipprell. Paramedic home visits are provided for patients who were discharged with congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or pneumonia; do not qualify for home care services and reside within the Ridgeview Ambulance service area. Patients with these conditions have been identified nationally as experiencing the highest percentage of unplanned readmissions. Paramedic home visits are currently available for patients who receive primary care at the Ridgeview Chanhassen, Delano, Excelsior, Howard Lake, Westonka or Winsted clinics or receive primary care at Lakeview Clinic. *Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services Kevin Sipprell, MD, Emergency Physicians & Consultants, P.A. 4 Ridgeview Medical Center, Winter 2013

5 Ridgeview opens new geriatric mental health unit First patients welcomed in December Last month Ridgeview Medical Center opened a geriatric mental health unit on the second floor of the hospital. This specialty service was introduced to meet a growing community need to address acute mental health concerns of older adult patients. It is dedicated to helping older adults with issues such as depression, confusion, delirium and anxiety. The geriatric mental health unit will allow patients to interact with others experiencing similar problems, help them cope with recent life changes and increase their self-awareness to help prevent symptoms from worsening. Some of the common issues treated include: difficulty with mood, behavior and thinking worsening confusion, disorientation and memory loss refusal to comply with medication requirements the potential to harm self or others inability to cope with stressful situations; and aggressive behavior and/or agitation. Services include assessment and continuing evaluation, group and individual therapy, education, family counseling and medication management (if needed). Bill Orr, MD, psychiatrist and medical director for the new program, brings more than 25 years of experience in geriatric psychiatry. Dr. Orr and Rhett Thompkins, PA-C, will lead the team for this special group of patients with unique mental health needs. Patients in the unit will be co-managed by Dr. Orr and their primary care physician. Patients must be age 55 or above, although this unit is primarily for Medicareaged patients age 64 and older. For more information or to make a referral, call , ext ,000 imaging procedures each year, but you ll never feel like a number When Disa Kullman of Waconia received her annual mammogram at Ridgeview Medical Center in December, she had no way of knowing that hers was one of 55,000 imaging procedures performed at Ridgeview last year. The compassionate care she received made her experience more relaxing than you d think. Kullman was escorted through the procedure by a certified technologist in a soothing environment that reminded her of a spa. I felt pampered when I was there, she said. While most patients are seen for routine mammograms, others may require more in-depth diagnostic evaluations. This can be an extremely trying time, so delays are minimized by scheduling sameday diagnostic appointments whenever possible and providing results often within 24 hours. CTs, MRIs and ultrasounds also contribute to the growing number of imaging procedures at Ridgeview each year. Advanced imaging technology means patients benefit from shorter scan times, higher-quality scans and quick turnaround on reports. Appointments are available at two convenient locations Ridgeview Medical Center in Waconia and Two Twelve Medical Center in Chaska. Call , ext. 5624, to schedule an appointment in Waconia, or , ext. 4500, for an appointment in Chaska. Disa Kullman receives her annual mammogram at Ridgeview Medical Center each year. Following screening guidelines published by the National Cancer Institute, Ridgeview recommends that women age 40 or older have screening mammograms every 1 to 2 years. 5

6 Montrose patient has nothing but praise for Ridgeview Retired from the Marine Corp in 1971 and now involved in local politics, Dean LaVine values dependability and honesty. When someone or something makes an impression on him good or bad he speaks up. Ask the 79-year-old about care he s received at Ridgeview Medical Center, and he ll tell you. I started doctoring at Ridgeview in 1985, said LaVine. A new hip and two knee replacements later, the Montrose resident has nothing but praise for Ridgeview and its network. I m just so impressed with the care and professionalism I see at the hospital, he said. LaVine s impression of Ridgeview has held true even as he began managing a new health concern. A year ago, at a regular eye exam, LaVine s optometrist noticed he was having problems with his peripheral vision. Rather than passing it off as old age, LaVine said, she ordered further testing. An MRI revealed a tumor about the size of a golf ball on his pituitary gland. Upon seeing the results, LaVine s primary care provider referred him to Sidney Jones, MD, Ridgeview Specialty Clinic Endocrinology. A board-certified endocrinologist, Dr. Jones is an expert in disorders of the endocrine system the organs that secrete hormones, such as the pituitary, thyroid, adrenals and pancreas. He reviewed LaVine s MRI and ordered laboratory tests. Based on those results, he recommended surgery. In fact, Dr. Jones was on the phone with the neurosurgeon at Abbott Northwestern Hospital to schedule the procedure before LaVine had even left his appointment, LaVine said. Through surgery, much of LaVine s tumor was removed, reducing the pressure on his optic nerve. His eyesight remained undamaged, and his peripheral vision was regained. He then returned to Dr. Jones to begin managing his hypopituitarism, a rare disease of the pituitary gland that affects one or more hormones secreted by the gland. Hormones regulate functions such as growth and development, metabolism, tissue function and mood. My glandular problem is real, and Dr. Jones was on top of that like a champ. He knows what he s doing and does it professionally, LaVine said. Dr. Jones ordered and reviewed lab work to identify hormone deficiencies resulting from LaVine s condition. He then prescribed hormone replacement medications to mimic LaVine s natural hormone levels and worked with LaVine s primary care doctor and cardiologist to inform them of the condition. While LaVine will remain on these prescriptions for the rest of his life, he s happy to have Dr. Jones and the Ridgeview staff working with him to manage his care. Dr. Jones is so patient, and the nursing care is second to none, LaVine said. I feel so good about going there. To view Dr. Jones profile or for more information, visit Stay committed to a healthier lifestyle in 2013 New Year s resolutions often center around exercise, health and wellness, so to help you stay committed to a healthier lifestyle, here are a few tips offered by athletic trainers at Ridgeview Rehab Specialties. Plan a set time(s) and days to exercise. Scheduled time makes you more likely to stay committed than a loose schedule. Make loved ones aware of your plans to eat healthier and exercise. Also, work out with your spouse or a friend. Studies show you are more likely to stick to exercise and diets if you are accountable to someone. Stick to three small meals a day, plus two high- protein snacks (yogurt, cheese sticks, nuts, etc.). Healthy snacks in between meals keep your blood sugar from dropping and make you feel less hungry so you don t eat as much at meal times. Drink plenty of water; eight glasses a day is recommended. Avoid high-calorie drinks such as soda. Write it down whether it s food or exercise. Being aware of what you eat and what you do in each exercise session will help you understand any challenges you might be facing. You can build on what you re doing and learn how to achieve results. Some exercise is better than none. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American College of Sports Medicine recommend minutes of exercise most if not all days of the week, something is better than nothing. Strength training is important. While 30+ minutes of cardiovascular training will help your heart and can aid in weight loss, strength training will help you build muscle and reduce fat. For a list of upcoming classes offered through Ridgeview Rehab Specialties, visit or check with your local community education office. To get connected with a Ridgeview athletic trainer for an exercise prescription, please call or carol.thurston@ridgeviewmedical.org. 6 Sidney Jones, MD, endocrinologist, Ridgeview Specialty Clinic Endocrinology

7 Classes, Events & Ways to Get Involved Through Ridgeview Medical Center FREE PRIVATE CONSULTATION Limited availability. Call to learn more. Bariatric Information Sessions Interested in weight loss surgery? Attend a free seminar to learn more about surgery and get answers to your questions without any cost or obligation. Seminars will cover current surgical options, benefits and limitations of weight loss surgery, lifestyle and behavior changes associated with the surgery, and the insurance approval process. Bring a family member or friend. Attend one of the following sessions: Wednesday, Jan. 23, 6:30 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 20, 6:30 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 20, 6:30 8 p.m. Ridgeview Community Auditorium Thursday, Jan. 10, 6:30 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 7, 6:30 8 p.m. Thursday, March 7, 6:30 8 p.m. Two Twelve Medical Center 111 Hundertmark Road, Chaska Registration is not required but aids in our planning. uestions? Call Babysitting Class Ridgeview Medical Center offers the American Red Cross Babysitter s Training Course. This course gives 11- to 15-year-olds the skills and confidence to be great babysitters in a fun, fastpaced, interactive format. Hands-on activities, an exciting video, role play and lively discussions are incorporated into the session. In addition, students receive engaging program materials to help them be prepared and professional. This class is taught by educators who are trained by the American Red Cross. Saturday, Feb. 16, 9 a.m. 4 p.m. Saturday, March 2, 9 a.m. 4 p.m. Conference Rooms A & B Register at events or call Fee: $58. Includes reference guide, handbook, interactive CD, activity booklet and more. Note: Lunch and snacks are not included. Please bring a sack lunch and beverage, and snacks if you choose. Advance Care Planning... It s About the Conversation It is important for people to have accurate information in order to make informed decisions about treatments they would or would not want for end-of-life care. Then it is important to talk about one s wishes with family members who may need to make health care decisions, and to record your wishes in a document. Ridgeview Medical Center offers a free service to help people understand this process. Please join us for an information session that will explain why advance care planning is important and the steps involved. You will also have an opportunity to sign up for free assistance with this process. Thursday, Jan. 17, 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 26, 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 28, 6:30 p.m. Saturday, March 2, 9:30 a.m. Ridgeview Community Auditorium This is a free event. Register at For more information or to register by phone, call , ext

8 Fitness, Wellness & Sports Performance Prediabetes Education Making lifestyle changes can help prevent the development of diabetes and improve the energy level for those diagnosed with prediabetes newly diagnosed prediabetic patients with HA1c: or FBG: At this class, gather practical information to help you: Learn what prediabetes is and how it is diagnosed; Identify lifestyle changes that can prevent or delay the development of diabetes; Identify who is at risk for developing prediabetes; Set goals for making lifestyle changes; and Understand continuation of care. Monday, March 4, 6:30 8 p.m. Conference Rooms A & B To register for this event, visit or call Fee: $20. The fee covers the participant and one family member/ support person. FREE Health Assessment Ridgeview Clinics is offering free health assessments to area residents. Each appointment will include: Height, weight/body mass index (BMI) measurements Total cholesterol Blood pressure check Fasting blood sugar For accurate total cholesterol and blood sugar readings, participants must fast for at least 8 hours prior to their screening appointment. Saturday, Jan. 12 Saturday, Feb. 9 Saturday, March 9 Ridgeview Chaska Clinic Two Twelve Medical Center 111 Hundertmark Road, Chaska Participants must register in advance by calling All individuals must have an address to participate. Screening participants must also complete an online health assessment prior to their scheduled appointment. The assessment includes questions about nutrition, exercise and lifestyle. Pilates Mat Fundamentals Class Learn basic Pilates fundamentals needed to properly perform Pilates mat exercises and benefit from the instructors knowledge of muscle development, movement and injury prevention. These classes are geared toward strengthening the core body, which can prevent/relieve back and neck pain or headaches. The classes require precision and practice. Mondays, Jan. 21 Feb. 25 8:15 9 p.m. Safari Island Community Center 1600 Community Drive, Waconia To register, visit or register at the Safari Island front desk. Fee: $75 for Safari Island members, $90 for nonmembers. Pilates Mat Continuation Class This class builds on the fundamentals class by progressive instruction in advancing Pilates mat work exercises and will introduce participants to more advanced core strengthening exercises. Prerequisite: Pilates Mat Fundamentals Class. Mondays, Jan. 14 March 4 8 8:45 a.m. Safari Island Community Center 1600 Community Drive, Waconia Fee: $95 for Safari Island members, $114 for nonmembers. To register, visit or register at Safari Island front desk. Mondays, Jan. 21 Feb :45 p.m. Laketown Gym 654 Industrial Boulevard, Waconia Pilates instructors are Pilates trained and either certified athletic trainers or licensed physical therapists. Medicine Ball Madness Want to try a new and different workout? Get a strength and cardio workout all in one while bouncing, lifting and maneuvering weighted balls while doing a variety of other activities. No prior experience necessary. Mondays, Jan. 21 Feb :40 p.m. Laketown Gym 654 Industrial Boulevard, Waconia Cancer Fitness Class Exercise during and after cancer treatment can help increase survival rates by up to 50 percent in certain types of cancer. It will also help patients increase energy levels and maintain a healthy weight. If currently treating, please check with your physician before enrolling. Class is taught by a Ridgeview certified athletic trainer with specialized training in cancer exercise. Wednesdays, Jan. 23 Feb :30 p.m. Laketown Gym 654 Industrial Boulevard, Waconia Fee: $60. To register, visit Caveman Attack Class Craving a different type of workout? This class includes tire flipping, rope twisting, sprinting fun along with a host of medicine ball exercises to keep your strength and cardio ability improving. Classes are led by certified athletic trainers with master s degrees in exercise physiology. Wednesdays, Jan. 23 Feb. 27 4:40 5:20 p.m. Laketown Gym 654 Industrial Boulevard, Waconia 8 Ridgeview Medical Center, Winter 2013

9 Ridgeview Foundation TPI Golf Assessment Class This class is designed to improve your golf game. Participants will go through the Titleist Performance Institute personalized movement screen to identify physical limitations that can contribute to common golf swing faults. Exercises will then be taught in a group setting by Ridgeview s team of physical therapists and certified athletic trainers to help correct specific limitations. This assessment is valued at $150 if done individually. Come in loose-fitting clothing, prepared to move and practice the exercises. Candlelight Relaxation Yoga Recharge your body and mind. Melt away stress and tension. Great class for yoga beginners through intermediates. Tuesdays, Jan. 22 Feb. 26 7:30 8:15 p.m. Ridgeview Rehab Specialties Ridgeview Professional Building, Suite S. Maple Street, Waconia 9th Annual Ridgeview Friends & Family Come Together Event Join Ridgeview Foundation, Ridgeview Medical Center, Safari Island and more than 35 other community organizations for a FREE, interactive healthy living event that promotes the health, wellness and safety of the entire community. Enjoy a wide range of activities and presentations designed for children and adults of ALL ages, including health screenings, community and personal health and safety information and much more! Wednesday, Feb. 20, 6 8 p.m. Ridgeview Rehab Specialties Ridgeview Professional Building, Suite S. Maple Street, Waconia Fee: $95. To register, visit NEW! Sunrise Yoga Awaken the body, rejuvenate your mind and enlighten your spirit. This beginner/intermediate class is perfect to begin your day. We will practice a series of postures in flow sequence. Learn how yoga can reduce stress, enhance flexibility and produce an overall feeling of well-being. Please bring a mat to this class. Tuesdays, Feb. 5 March :40 a.m. Ridgeview Rehab Specialties Ridgeview Professional Building, Suite S. Maple Street, Waconia Yoga for Beginners Instruction focuses on awareness of breathing and alignment in yoga postures. Each class will be balanced with warm up, muscle strengthening poses and end with relaxation. Learn how yoga can reduce stress, enhance flexibility and produce an overall feeling of well-being. Please bring a mat to this class. Thursdays, Jan. 31 March 7 5:45 6:30 p.m. Ridgeview Rehab Specialties Ridgeview Professional Building, Suite S. Maple Street, Waconia Yoga & Pilates Sculpt Receive a total body workout with a fun combination of yoga, Pilates, strength conditioning of ballet and interval training. Create a strong core and long, lean muscles while keeping your heart rate up. No Pilates, yoga or dance experience necessary. Tuesdays, Jan. 22 Feb. 26 6:30 7:15 p.m. Ridgeview Rehab Specialties Ridgeview Professional Building, Suite S. Maple Street, Waconia Springtime Sampler Want a taste of everything from yoga to Pilates, boot camp to medicine ball workouts? Join us for this 4-week beginner s class that will give you a new workout each session. No prior experience necessary. Mondays & Wednesdays, March 4 27, 5 5:45 p.m. Laketown Gym 654 Industrial Boulevard, Waconia Fee: $80. To register, visit All classes except Pilates Mat Continuation Class are appropriate for beginners. uestions about classes? Contact Carol Thurston at carol.thurston@ridgeviewmedical. org, , or Sandra Hanson at sandra.hanson@ ridgeviewmedical.org, Saturday, March 23, 9 a.m. Noon Safari Island Community Center 1600 Community Drive, Waconia This is a free event and advance registration is not required. For more information, call Ridgeview Foundation at or visit SAVE THE DATE Skin Cancer Screening Ridgeview physicians are offering free screenings by appointment. Saturday, April 6 9 a.m. Noon Ridgeview Chaska Clinic Two Twelve Medical Center, Suite Hundertmark Road, Chaska To schedule an appointment, call Loving Yourself! The Breast Cancer Journey This special breast cancer event will provide updates about current breast cancer therapies. Tuesday, May 7, 6:30 8:15 p.m. Ridgeview Community Auditorium To register for this free event, visit or call

10 Childbirth-Related Classes Childbirth Preparation Led by certified instructors, this series helps expectant parents prepare for the last months of pregnancy, labor and delivery. You will be given The Gift of Motherhood, a childbirth education book, at class. This series includes stages of labor and delivery, breathing and relaxation techniques, and a birthing suite and nursery tour. Please bring two pillows and a blanket to each session. To accommodate your schedule, Ridgeview offers two childbirth class options. 4-Week Series: 6 9 p.m. Tuesdays, Jan. 8 Jan. 29 Mondays, Feb. 18 March 11 1-Day Express: 8:30 a.m. 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 12 Saturday, Jan. 19 Saturday, Feb. 2 Saturday, Feb. 23 Saturday, March 9 Saturday, March 16 Ridgeview Community Auditorium Fee: $95 per couple (mother-to-be and labor partner). Includes childbirth education book. Note: Meals and snacks are not provided during these classes. Bring your own food and beverages or make purchases in the Ridgeview cafeteria or from vending machines. E-learning Childbirth Preparation Ridgeview Medical Center offers an e-learning childbirth preparation class. The interactive, Web-based program includes animated illustrations, videos, voice-overs and games, allowing expectant mothers and their labor partners to participate in an independent, self-paced class from the convenience of home. Participants will be given an access code, which is valid for three months, and are encouraged to complete the class four weeks prior to their due dates. Please note: This online course does not include interaction with an instructor or a tour of Ridgeview s birthing suites. Fee: $35. Childbirth Refresher The refresher class provides parents with a review and update of birthing procedures. Call if you are interested in a childbirth refresher class. Ridgeview will work with you to schedule a session. Note: Please call early as a minimum of three couples is needed to hold a session. Fee: $45 per couple. Breastfeeding Breastfeeding is a unique experience for each mother. This class is beneficial whether you choose to breast feed for many months or just a few weeks. It can also be helpful if you are unsure about whether to breast feed or bottle feed. Topics addressed by certified instructors include advantages of breastfeeding, preparation for breastfeeding, nutrition, problem solving and returning to work. Bring a special support person. Upcoming breastfeeding classes, from 6 9 p.m., are: Free Support Groups Bariatric Support Group The Bariatric Support Group meets every other week at Two Twelve Medical Center in Chaska. Anyone who has had or is considering bariatric surgery is welcome to attend; you do not need to have had your surgery at Ridgeview Medical Center or Abbott Northwestern Hospital. Visit to learn more. This group meets the first Tuesday and the third Monday of the month from 6 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 21 Tuesday, Feb. 5 Monday, Feb. 18 Tuesday, March 5 Monday, March 18 Two Twelve Medical Center, Suite Hundertmark Road, Chaska For more information, call Breast Cancer Support Group This is a group for women to share questions and concerns about their experiences with breast cancer. During each support group session an educational topic, such as music therapy, plastic surgery or breast cancer statistics, is discussed. These group sessions meet from 6 7:30 p.m.: Tuesday, Jan. 15: Lymphedema Tuesday, Feb. 19: Breast Cancer Treatments Tuesday, March 19: Nutrition and Diet Recommendations Conference Rooms A & B For more information, call , ext or ext Register for prenatal classes at events or call Wednesday, Jan. 9 Thursday, Jan. 31 Tuesday, Feb. 19 Wednesday, March 6 Thursday, March 28 Two Twelve Medical Center, Suite Hundertmark Road, Chaska Fee: $40 per couple (mother and support person). Includes a copy of Breastfeeding: A Great Start. Note: You are encouraged to bring your own snacks and beverages to have during the class. 10 Ridgeview Medical Center, Winter 2013

11 Grief Support Group The Grief Support Group is for those experiencing grief or anticipating a loss of someone they care about. Sessions are held from 7 8:30 p.m.: Monday, Jan. 14 Monday, Jan. 28 Monday, Feb. 11 Monday, Feb. 25 Monday, March 11 Monday, March 25 Conference Rooms A & B For more information, call , ext Look Good... Feel Better This free service teaches cancer patients beauty techniques to help enhance appearance and self-image during chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Participants will receive a free makeup kit. This support group is co-sponsored by Ridgeview Medical Center and the American Cancer Society. Registration is required. Ridgeview Research Behind every new medication are the volunteers who take part in clinical research studies. Participating in a clinical trial provides participants with access to new research treatments and medical care, and allows them to help others by contributing to medical research and treatment advances. You may also be compensated for your time and travel. Ridgeview Research is looking for participants in the following studies: Asthma COPD Registry Endometriosis Gout With Cardiovascular Risks Irritable Bowel Syndrome With Diarrhea Newly Diagnosed Atrial Fibrillation Registry Rheumatoid Arthritis Vaginitis Two Twelve Medical Center, Suite Hundertmark Road, Chaska Contact Ridgeview Research for more information. Call or visit Volunteer Opportunities Ridgeview Volunteer Services is looking for volunteers 13 years and older to assist in more than 20 different areas of the hospital, clinics and Two Twelve Medical Center in Chaska in a variety of volunteer assignments. To learn more, attend an informational session. Sessions are held in Conference Room B at Ridgeview Medical Center. Wednesday, Jan. 16, 11 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 12, 1 p.m. Thursday, March 21, 3 p.m. Registration is not required. For more information, call Volunteer Services at , ext. 5570, or volunteers@ridgeviewmedical.org. Wednesday, Feb. 13, 4 6 p.m. Conference Rooms A & B Please call the American Cancer Society at to register. Sleep Disorders Education This group is designed to give people more knowledge about sleep apnea and methods of treatment. Sleep disorders education seminars are held from 7 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 6: Common Sleep Disorders What s your health score? A health assessment through Family Health Manager ranks your health across 10 categories and supports you as you focus on activity, nutrition, pain, sleep and well-being. Find out your score now! Create a Family Health Manager account at ridgeviewmedical.org. Ridgeview Community Auditorium For more information, call Information published in this newsletter is general in nature and not intended for the purpose of diagnosing or prescribing. Please consult with your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatment Ridgeview Medical Center 11

12 Ridgeview Medical Center Ridgeview Medical Center 500 S. Maple Street 500 S. Maple Street Waconia, MN Waconia, MN NONPROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO TWIN CITIES, MN Winter 2013 See page 7 for Classes, Events & Ways to Get Involved HealthViews News, Classes & Community Events From