Provena Covenant Medical Center News

Provena Covenant Foundation awards scholarships in honor of Sister Julia Mo...

Provena Health — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:00:00 CST

On Tuesday, January 31, two Parkland students were the first recipients of the Sister Julia Moriarty Nursing Scholarship from the Provena Covenant Medical Center Foundation. Kelli Murphy and Jeong Hyun Hwang, both students at Parkland College, each received a $500 scholarship to use towards their nursing education. Sister Julia, now 92 years old, returned to Champaign-Urbana to help the Foundation honor these students at an awards presentation and reception.

This scholarship fund was established a year ago, upon the retirement of Sister Julia Moriarty from Provena Covenant Medical Center. In the first year alone, donors to the Foundation generously provided more than $6,000 to this fund, which will continue to award scholarships to Parkland College nursing students in future semesters.

Moriarty started her nursing training in 1938 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Kankakee and joined the order of the Servants of the Holy Heart of Mary the following year. She started the Parkland College nursing program in 1967 and served at Provena Covenant for 46 years in a variety of roles.

Anyone wishing to contribute to

Provena Offers $49 Heart Scan

Provena Health — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 12:00:00 CST

Provena Covenant Medical Center and Provena United Samaritans Medical Center are offering area residents a "peek" inside their heart through the Provena Heart Scan for only $49 from February 1 until March 16, a 50% discount off the regular price of $99.

Provena’s Heart Scan is a method of assessing the risk of heart disease that allows experts to identify and measure plaque within the arteries of the heart that can lead to blockages. It involves a simple, 10-minute CT scan of the heart, an evaluation of the scan by a radiologist, and a personal consultation with a nurse. Intended for women over the age of 40 and men over the age of 35, the Provena Heart Scan can identify potential risks of heart disease years before any signs or symptoms occur, so individuals can have time to take the appropriate preventative steps.

According to the American Heart Association, 85% of sudden heart attacks can be prevented. Knowing individual risk and developing a lifestyle conducive to health is the best way to prevent heart disease.

To schedule a Provena Heart Scan in Danville at the special $49 rate in the month of

Champaign County's vision of a "Beloved Community" includes providing vital...

Provena Health — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 12:00:00 CST

Held annually on the third Monday in January, the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service is the only federal holiday observed as a national day of service – a "day on, not a day off." It empowers individuals, strengthens communities, bridges barriers, creates solutions to social problems, and moves us closer to Dr. King's vision of a "Beloved Community."

In Champaign-Urbana, the need for dental care is an identified critical issue. Therefore, it is only appropriate that the Provena Covenant Medical Center sponsored Mobile Dental Clinic, held on the same day the 11th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Countywide Celebration, will take place at the Prairie Center on Friday, January 13.

Funded by Provena Covenant, each Mobile Dental Clinic provides a dentist and his staff for about 20 patients who would otherwise be unable to afford dental care. All services, including X-rays, exams, cleanings, sealants, cavity fillings and extractions, are provided at no cost to patients and are arranged by SmileHealthy. Some of these patients are clients of the Prairie Center.

Provena Covenant is committ

Advance Directives and Asset Protection the topics for January Powerful Liv...

Provena Health — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 12:00:00 CST

This month, the Provena Powerful Living Series will focus on advance directives and asset protection. It’s hard to think about the end of your life, but it’s important to consider your options before you can no longer decide for yourself.

To learn about living wills, power of attorney, the Healthcare Surrogate Act, as well as protecting your assets, plan on attending the January Powerful Living Series featuring Larry Green, L.S.W. with Provena Home Care and Kathleen Moore, Vice President and Trust Officer with Busey Wealth Management. The event will be on Tuesday, January 17 from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. in the Wellness Room at the Center for Healthy Aging.

There is no cost to attend. Space is limited and registration is required, so call the Provena Center for Healthy Aging at (217) 337-2022 to reserve your seat today.

The Provena Powerful Living Series is designed to encourage the prevention of disease, as well as provide guidance on disease management and the latest treatment options.

Phase two of Provena Blessed Beginnings Birthing Center modernization proje...

Provena Health — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 12:00:00 CST

Phase two of Provena Covenant Medical Center’s over $5 million Blessed Beginnings Birthing Center modernization project is now open to patients and includes two new C-section operating rooms adjacent to the birthing center, a locker room, a classroom and two more labor/deliver/recovery rooms.

“This project is extremely important to the hospital’s ability to provide moms with compassionate care and the most up-to-date technology in the most comfortable setting possible,” said Mike Brown, Regional President and CEO, Provena Covenant Medical Center. “The completion of phase two is a giant step in the right direction.”

The recently remodeled, birthing center rooms currently feature luxurious amenities, advanced technology and spa-like décor complete with hardwood-like floors, spacious bathrooms with floor-to-ceiling tiled showers, a generously-sized bathtub, a flat screen TV, free wireless Internet and a sleeper couch with an extra long, comfortably-sized bed for a family member or friend to stay the night.

In addition to

Provena Covenant Foundation honors loyal donors

Provena Health — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 12:00:00 CST

On Tuesday, December 13, the Provena Covenant Medical Center Foundation hosted a donor event to honor its most loyal supporters. The event was to celebrate the heritage of Provena Covenant Medical Center and its Foundation, as well as the donors who have made long-standing commitments to the hospital. Donors were honored for their years of giving, and those recognized include the following:

Busey Bank/Main Street Bank – 18 years
Jim and Mona Kaiser – 19 years
Ms. Mary Graham – 20 years
Dr. and Mrs. Frank Kresca – 20 years
Mrs. Janaan Vance – 22 years
Robeson Family Benefit Fund – 23 years

Combined, these loyal donors have given more than $150,000 to the Provena Covenant Foundation over the course of their donation history.

In addition to honoring donors, the event included presentations from individuals who have benefitted from services funded by donations to the Provena Covenant Foundation. Provena Center for Healthy Aging, is taking in this month’s Powerful Living Series seminar.

To learn about prevention strategies for healthy aging, plan to attend the December Powerful Living Series seminar on December 20 from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Provena Center for Healthy Aging, 410 E. University Ave. in Champaign. Teresa’s presentation will focus on the importance of preventative medical services, such as immunizations, screenings and tests like colonoscopies, rectal exams, mammograms and physicals. In addition, she will touch on healthy living practices such as physical activity, good nutrition, smoking cessation and alcohol use.

There is no cost to attend. Space is limited and registration is required, so call the Provena Center for Healthy Aging at (217) 337-2022 to reserve your seat today.

The Provena Powerful Living Series is designed to encourage the prevention of disease, as well as provide guid

Santa Claus to visit Provena Covenant Medical Center

Provena Health — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 12:00:00 CST

All kids are welcome on Thursday, December 15 when Santa Claus and his elves make a stop at Provena Covenant Medical Center.

Santa will be reading holiday books aloud in the Cafeteria from 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Complimentary refreshments will be provided.

Space is limited, so be sure to reserve a spot for your child(ren) today by calling (217) 337-4745 or emailing pcmcvolunteer@provena.org.

Provena Covenant Medical Center Named one of the Nation's Top Cardiovascula...

Provena Health — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 12:00:00 CST

Provena Covenant Medical Center has been named one of the nation’s 50 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals by Thomson Reuters, making them the only hospital in East Central Illinois and one of only three hospitals in Illinois to receive this honor.

The study examined the performance of more than 1,000 hospitals by analyzing outcomes for patients with heart failure and heart attacks and for those who received coronary bypass surgery and percutaneous coronary interventions such as angioplasties. As an award winner, Provena Covenant provides cardiac care to patients that is proven to offer a better chance of survival and lower complication rates than other community hospitals in Illinois.

“Last year physicians and staff in several areas across Provena Covenant worked tirelessly to improve and enhance several aspects of cardiovascular care in order to earn our accreditations as a full Cycle III Chest Pain Center with PCI and full Cycle I Heart Failure Center by the Society of Chest Pain Centers. These efforts made a big impact on the quality of our heart care and are what ultimately led us to winning t

Provena Center for Healthy Aging gets moving for good health with new exerc...

Provena Health — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 12:00:00 CST

The Provena Center for Healthy Aging recently added exercise classes to its list of programs and services available to the community.

The new exercise classes are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Provena Center for Healthy Aging located at 410 E. University Ave. in Champaign. Small group classes are available at the beginner, moderate and advanced levels. Some classes include Chair Fit, Strong Bodies, Bones and Core, Cardio/Strength Circuit and Zumba Gold. Ideal for adults with a history of heart disease, diabetes, obesity and other chronic conditions, these classes are taught by health care professionals certified in Basic Life Support. The cost is $25 a month. Scholarships are available to those who are interested in participating but cannot afford the fee.

To apply for a scholarship, register for a class or for more information, call Candy Gilbert at (217) 337-2022.

Free Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Seminar Courtesy of Provena Covenant Medical Ce...

Provena Health — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 12:00:00 CST

Evidence suggests that about 3% of women and 2% of men will be diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome during their lifetime, with peak prevalence in women older than 55. If you are among the population currently suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome and are looking for answers, help is not far away. It’s time to regain control of your life and get back to doing the things you love, pain free.

Provena Covenant Medical Center will host a free orthopedic seminar featuring Christie Clinic orthopedic surgeon Dr. Shawn Love. The presentation will focus on prevention, diagnosis and treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome and will be held on Thursday, December 1from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn, 1501 S. Neil St. in Champaign. Refreshments will be provided. There is no cost to attend.

Space is limited. To register today, call 1-866-PROVENA (776-8362).

Is music good for your heart?

Provena Health — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 12:00:00 CST

With $1,000 from Provena Covenant Medical Center Foundation, Millikin University Graduate Nursing Student Shelly Challans will serve as co-investigator for a medical research study entitled, “The Effects of Classical Piano Music on Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation Patients.”

Other co-investigators for the study are Millikin University School of Nursing Associate Professor Marilyn A. Prasun, PhD, CCNS, FAHA and Christie Clinic Electrophysiologist and University of Illinois Professor of Medicine Abraham Kocheril, MD, FACC, FACP. Dr. Kocheril will also serve as the senior investigator.

“Part of our mission is to further the science of medicine through research. This allows us to extend what we do in treating disease and alleviating suffering,” said Dr. Kocheril. “Starting with information gained from my previous study on harp music, we will look at the effects of music on the hearts of arrhythmia patients using advanced technology and obtaining very detailed measurements from the inside of the heart. The grant support from Provena allows us to move ahead with this phase of the

Provena Covenant awards grand prize for Name the Robot Contest in a surpris...

Provena Health — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 12:00:00 CST

More than 180 local K-5 students submitted robot coloring contest pages and name submissions for the new da Vinci surgical robot system at Provena Covenant Medical Center as a part of the Name the Robot contest.

Of these, Robeson Elementary School 2^nd grader William Ding won the grand prize with his name submission of “Dr. R.U.S.S.,” which stands for Robotic Ultimate Surgical System. William won a certificate from Provena Covenant, along with a $100 Visa gift card and will get a private tour of the da Vinci operating room.

In addition to the grand prize, three runner-up prizes were awarded in preceding weeks to the school with the most entries and to the two most artistic robot coloring pages. Judah Christian School had more than 80 students submit entries, which earned them a $100 Visa gift card. Two most artistic awards were given in the K-2 and 3-5 age groups. Samuel McArthur, a kindergartner at Kenwood Elementary and Ashanti Williams, a 4^th grader at Prairie School, won a $50 Visa gift card each for the two most artistic entries.

With the most advance

Free Screenings Help Diagnose Respiratory Problems at Provena Covenant

Provena Health — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 12:00:00 CST

In honor of World COPD Day on Wednesday, November 16, Provena Covenant Medical Center will once again offer free Respiratory/Spirometry screenings at the hospital (fourth floor) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Respiratory/Spirometry screenings, also known as a pulmonary function test, are used to help identify respiratory problems and will be conducted by registered respiratory therapists who are nationally certified. If the results of the respiratory screening are abnormal, additional testing to detect Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency will be offered. Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency is an inherited disorder that can cause lung disease in adults and liver disease in adults and children.

Light refreshments will be served. Appointments will be taken, but are not required. For more information or to make an appointment, call 337-3753. Please do not eat a large meal within 1-2 hours of testing and wear loose, comfortable clothing.

November's Provena Powerful Living Series Focuses on Menopause/Post-Menopau...

Provena Health — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 12:00:00 CST

Hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, cycle changes, fatigue, fuzzy thinking, weight gain, trouble sleeping… symptoms of menopause may be common, but it is important to understand how lifestyle changes, diet, exercise and medications can affect them.

If the symptoms of menopause are interfering with your enjoyment of life, plan to attend the November Powerful Living Series seminar featuring Christie Clinic OB/GYN physician Dr. Michael Smith on Nov. 15 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Provena Center for Healthy Aging, 410 E. University Ave. in Champaign. Dr. Smith’s presentation will focus on simple ways to minimize and manage the symptoms of menopause and post-menopause. There is no cost to attend. Space is limited and registration is required, so call the Provena Center for Healthy Aging at (217) 337-2022 to reserve your seat today.

The Provena Powerful Living Series is designed to encourage the prevention of disease, as well as provide guidance on disease management and the latest treatment options.

Provena Covenant Welcomes Joseph Keeley, MD to their Medical Staff

Provena Health — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 12:00:00 CST

Provena Covenant Medical Center is proud to announce the addition of Joseph Keeley, MD to their medical staff.

As a Pediatrician in the Department of Pediatrics at Christie Clinic, Dr. Keeley evaluates and treats children with a variety of developmental problems including ADHD, autistic spectrum disorders, learning disabilities and cognitive disorders. He is one of only four pediatricians in Illinois board certified in neurodevelopmental pediatrics.

Dr. Keeley received his medical degree from University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor, MI, completed his pediatric internship at University of Michigan Hospitals in Ann Arbor, MI, and his pediatric residency at Naval Regional Medical Center in San Diego, CA. Dr. Keeley also completed a fellowship in Developmental Disabilities and Behavioral Pediatrics at Johns Hopkins Department of Pediatrics, Kennedy Krieger Institute in Baltimore, MD.

Dr. Keeley sees patients at Christie on Windsor, 1801 West Windsor Road in Champaign. To make an appointment with Dr. Keeley, call his office at (217) 366-1257.

Provena Covenant Goes Smoke-Free in Conjunction with the American Cancer So...

Provena Health — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 12:00:00 CST

For years, Provena Covenant Medical Center has not allowed smoking within the hospital or within 15 feet of the entrances. Now their commitment to a healthy environment will take that final step as the Medical Center becomes a tobacco-free campus starting November 17, 2011. The move is being made in conjunction with the annual American Cancer Society Great American Smokeout.

With the implementation of this policy, the use of all tobacco products will not be allowed - inside or outside - on the campus, including the parking lots, or at any building owned, leased or operated by the hospital, to ensure a healthier environment for everyone.

"As a leader in the community, it is important for the residents to understand that we are committed to providing the healthiest environment possible for patients, visitors, physicians, volunteers and employees," said Mike Brown, President/CEO of Provena Covenant and Provena United Samaritans. “As a healthcare organization, we believe it’s important to lead by example. We want people to know

Provena Covenant welcomes Karleen M. McNeal to their medical staff

Provena Health — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 12:00:00 CST

Provena Covenant Medical Center is proud to announce the addition of Karleen M. McNeal to their medical staff.

Dr. McNeal is in the Department of Geriatric Medicine at Christie Clinic. She diagnoses and treats non-surgical illnesses in patients at nursing homes. Her specialties are Geriatric Medicine and Internal Medicine. She received her medical degree from St. George’s School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies and completed her Internal Medicine internship and residency at Michael Reese Hospital and Medical Center in Illinois. Dr. McNeal also completed a fellowship at Rush-Presbyterian-St Lukes Medical Center in Illinois.

Her certifications include Internal Medicine, Geriatrics, Hospice and Palliative Medicine. She is a member of the American Geriatrics Society, American Medical Directors Association, American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Care.

Powerful Living Series Focuses on Fall Prevention

Provena Health — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 12:00:00 CST

Provena Powerful Living Series focuses on Fall Prevention

Dr. Kimberly Eickmeier, Christie Clinic Podiatrist, will present a seminar on various fall prevention strategies on Tuesday, October 18 from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Provena Center for Healthy Aging (410 E. University Ave, Champaign) as a part of the Provena Powerful Living Series.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, falls are the most common cause of nonfatal injuries and hospital admissions for trauma among those 65 and older. One of the most important ways to reduce moderate to severe injuries is to become fully aware of the risk of falling and how to prevent a fall from occurring in the first place.

There is no cost to attend. Space is limited and registration is required, so call the Provena Center for Healthy Aging at (217) 337-2022 today.

The Center for Healthy Aging provides health and wellness programs that promote healthy living, reduce the risk of disease and preserve independence. The center offers a variety of educational programs, screenings, special events and other services for adults th

Free Spine Treatment Seminar Courtesy of Provena Covenant Medical Center

Provena Health — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 12:00:00 CST

If you are among the millions of people currently suffering from back pain and are looking for answers, help is not far away. It's time to regain control of your life and get back to doing the things you love, pain free. Provena Covenant Medical Center will host an orthopedic seminar focusing on back pain and treatment options for spine conditions on Thursday, October 13 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the I-Hotel and Conference Center, 1900 S. First St. in Champaign. The seminar will feature a presentation by Spine Surgeon Dr. John Atwater called "Latest Treatment Options for Spine Conditions." Refreshments will be provided. There is no cost to attend. Space is limited. To register today, call 1-866-PROVENA (776-8362).

Make a difference in Champaign County by joining Provena's Faith in Action ...

Provena Health — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 12:00:00 CST

If you would like to make a difference in the lives of people in your community, Provena Center for Healthy Aging's Faith in Action program could be your chance to help. The program serves Champaign County residents ages 55 and older who are in need. Volunteer opportunities include driving people to doctor's appointments and the pharmacy, grocery shopping for home-bound seniors, making companionable home visits, providing respite for caregivers, making telephone reassurance calls, light housekeeping/light meal preparation duties, minor household repairs, yard clean up/chores and office assistance. Groups are also encouraged to volunteer for Chore Days, including yard clean up, mowing, pulling weeds, washing windows, and other outside projects. Groups that participate in Chore Days do not need to go through orientation. To find out how you can give back to fellow community members who are isolated, lonely or in need of assistance, attend an orientation session on Tuesday October 11 at 6:00 p.m. at Provena Center for Healthy Aging at 410 E. University Ave. in Champaign. For more information or to reserve your seat, call t

Learn how to manage your Chronic Disease

Provena Health — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 12:00:00 CST

The Provena Center for Healthy Aging will be offering a free six-week course entitled "Live Well Be Well," which focuses on managing chronic health conditions. The "Live Well Be Well" seminars will be held on Thursday evenings, starting September 29 and running until November 10, from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the Wellness Room at the Provena Center for Healthy Aging. Past participants in this program have experienced improvements in health status and health behaviors and the program has been associated with fewer emergency department visits. Registration is required and space is limited. Call (217) 337-2022 to reserve your seat. Media Contact: Gina Stierwalt (217) 337-2917

Free Back Pain Seminar Courtesy of Provena Covenant Medical Center

Provena Health — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 12:00:00 CST

If you are among the millions of people currently suffering from back pain and are looking for answers, help is not far away. It's time to regain control of your life and get back to doing the things you love, pain free. Provena Covenant Medical Center will host an orthopedic seminar on Tuesday, September 27 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the I-Hotel and Conference Center, 1900 S. First St. in Champaign. The seminar will feature a presentation by Christie Clinic Pain Management Specialist Dr. Stuart King called "How to Effectively Manage Back Pain." Refreshments will be provided. There is no cost to attend. Space is limited. To register today, call 1-866-PROVENA (776-8362).

Provena Covenant Medical Center Hosts "Name the Robot" Contest

Provena Health — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 12:00:00 CST

Provena Covenant Medical Center is offering area children, grades K-5, the chance to name its new da Vinci® Si HD surgical robot. The winning entry will receive $100 and a private tour of the da Vinci Si operating room. Each entry must also be accompanied by a completed robot coloring page, and prizes will be awarded to the most artistic entries. In addition, the school with the most entries will win a $100 donation. The da Vinci Si system is sophisticated robotic technology that enables surgeons to perform minimally invasive procedures on patients, who experience less pain, less scarring and shorter hospital stays. To learn more about the contest and to print off an entry form, please visit www.provena.org/covenant or contact Gina Stierwalt at (217) 337-2917.

Provena Health Again Recognized as a Top Technology Innovator

Provena Health — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 12:00:00 CST

The Provena Health Information Services team was recognized as a Top Innovator by InformationWeek 500 at a ceremony held on September 13, 2011. Pictured left to right are John Romeo, System Manager, Enterprise Network and John Lynch, Chief Information Officer.

For the second year in a row, Provena Health has been named to the InformationWeek 500, a prestigious annual listing of the nation’s most innovative users of business technology. The health system is recognized for its innovative work to design, build and efficiently migrate data system