Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Announces Scholarship Winners

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. is pleased to announce that Internal Medicine Physician, Daniel J. Megard, M.D., has been recertified as a Diplomat of the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM).

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. is pleased to announce the 16th Annual Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Scholarship Program award winners.

Four $1,000 scholarships were available for application to high school seniors located in the Yankton Medical Clinic service area who have an interest in pursuing a major in a medical field. One $1,000 scholarship award was available to a student currently enrolled in a laboratory, radiology, respiratory therapy or nursing program, with preference given to those with an intention to return to work within a 50-mile radius of Yankton, SD. In addition, a $5,000 scholarship award was available to a third-year medical student of Sanford School of Medicine of The University of South Dakota, with preference given to those entering a primary care field (Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, OB/GYN) with an intention to return to practice medicine within a 50-mile radius of Yankton, SD. Total scholarship dollars amount to $10,000 for area students.

Yankton Medical Clinic, PC created the scholarship program to promote higher education and to provide resources for area youth to seek higher education in the medical field.

The scholarship selection committee reviewed applications from a large and outstanding list of students. The chosen award winners distinguished themselves by their academic accomplishments and their school, church, and civic activities.

One of the six scholarships is being given in honor of the late Dr. Theodore H. Sattler. Dr. Sattler was one of the original physicians of Yankton Clinic, which later merged with the Medical Clinic to form Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Dr. Sattler retired from the Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. in 1992.

The 2012 Dr. Theodore H. Sattler/Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. winner is Tory N. Gross from Yankton Senior High School.

A second scholarship is being given in honor of Dr. Jay W. Hubner. Dr. Hubner began his practice with Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. in 1973, and retired in 2006. His father, the late Dr. R.F. Hubner was one of the original physicians of the Medical Clinic, which later merged with the Yankton Clinic to form Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C.

The 2012 Dr. Jay W. Hubner/Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. winner is Kristina K. Zalud from Vermillion High School.

A third scholarship is being given in honor of Dr. Michael R. McVay. Dr. McVay began his practice with Yankton Clinic in 1978, and retired in 2009. He began his practice as a cardiologist after completing a fellowship in 1981. His father, the late Dr. Chester McVay, was one of the original physicians of Yankton Clinic, which later merged with the Yankton Clinic to form Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C.

The 2012 Dr. Michael R. McVay/Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. winner is Breanna J. Cuka from Wagner, SD.

The fourth scholarship is being given in honor of Dr. John C. Sternquist. Dr. Sternquist began his surgical medical practice with Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. in 1980, and retired in 2009.

The 2012 Dr. John C. Sternquist/Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. winner is Bailey R. Kuchta from Wynot, NE.

The 2012 Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Medical Professional Scholarship recipient is Carol A. Miller, University of South Dakota nursing student.

The 2012 Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Medical Student Scholarship recipient is Kathy M. Kotschegarow of Yankton, SD.

The Yankton Medical Clinic wishes the award winners and all of the applicants great success and good wishes in their future endeavors.

Questions regarding the Yankton Medical Clinic Scholarship Program should be directed to your local high school guidance counselor or the Marketing Department at the Clinic.

Dr. Megard Receives Board Recertification

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. is pleased to announce that Internal Medicine Physician, Daniel J. Megard, M.D., has been recertified as a Diplomat of the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM).

Dr. Megard earned Diplomat status by passing the ABIM's stringent recertification examination, a test of the physician's abilities in the field of adult medicine. He also met ABIM's rigorous standards through intensive study, self-assessment and evaluation. ABIM Diplomats must continue to demonstrate their competence in the specialty by taking recertification exams every 10 years.

Dr. Megard has been in practice at the Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. since December 1991.

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EMR Introduced-New Registration Form Needed

On behalf of the physicians of our clinic, we are pleased to introduce an electronic medical record (EMR) system. This new change will require a little extra time and a bit of extra paper work in the beginning, but it has been proven to offer many benefits to patients and physicians alike.

Some of these benefits include:

• Enhanced communications among staff.
• Immediate access when searching for or updating chart information.
• Lab results posted immediately and then accessible to physicians.
• Electronic prescription delivery.
• Excellent protection of records for better disaster recovery if needed.
• System can check for potential adverse drug interactions or alert to allergies.
• Physician recruitment. Newer physicians look for clinics with EMR systems!

Overall, a little extra time now benefits not just our clinic, but our community.

If you have an upcoming appointment, completing the new registration form in advance of your visit will SAVE TIME and help avoid extra waiting.

Please complete and return this form, Registration Form, to the receptionist when you check-in for your appointment.

Thank you for helping us improve patient safety and communication!

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YMC Announces Board Certification of Dr. Nielsen

The Yankton Medical Clinic is pleased to announce that Byron S. Nielsen, M.D. has recently become Board Certified in Nephrology.

Dr. Nielsen is also Board Certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Internal Medicine. He earned Diplomat status by passing the American Board of Internal Medicine's stringent certification examination, a test of the physician's abilities in the fields of nephrology and adult medicine.

American Board of Internal Medicine Diplomats must continue to demonstrate their competence in the specialty by taking recertification exams every 10 years.

Dr. Nielsen provides the diagnosis and treatment of adult kidney diseases including but not limited to those associated with underlying medical ailments, genetic disorders, autoimmune diseases and vasculitis. He also specializes in the treatment of hypertension, electrolyte disturbances, the medical management of kidney stones, and provides both inpatient and outpatient dialysis.

To make an appointment with Dr. Nielsen at Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. call 605-665-1082; for an appointment at his outreach clinic call Vermillion Medical Clinic at 605-624-8643.

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YMC Gastroenterologist Recognized By Sanford School of Medicine

Steve Gutnik, MD, FACP, Board Certified Gastroenterologist, was recently recognized by Sanford School of Medicine of The University of South Dakota (SSOM) as an Outstanding Faculty member. He has been a faculty member at the SSOM for 25 years; and an affiliate of Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. since 2000.

Representative comments on his teaching include:

"Dr. Gutnik embodies a great teacher and someone committed to lifelong learning."

"Greatly helped me prepare for what to expect as an intern next year."

"He is a great teacher and enjoys having students work with him."

"Very interested in my learning and an excellent instructor."

"Outstanding teacher and mentor."

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YMC Earns Breast MRI Accreditation

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. (YMC) has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology (ACR). MRI of the breast offers valuable information about many breast conditions that may not be obtained by other imaging modalities, such as mammography or ultrasound.

YMC is Yankton's only facility equipped with Breast MRI. In addition, board certified Radiologist, Will Eidsness, M.D., and a one hundred percent fully board certified staff, assures patients of quality imaging and the highest possible expertise in reading MRI images.

The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. It is awarded only to facilities meeting ACR Practice Guidelines and Technical Standards. The ACR is a national professional organization serving more than 34,000 diagnostic/interventional radiologists, radiation oncologists, nuclear medicine physicians, and medical physicists with programs focusing on the practice of medical imaging and radiation oncology and the delivery of comprehensive health care services.

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YMC Awarded Echo Reaccreditation

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Diagnostic Imaging Services, has attained recognition for its commitment to providing a high level of patient care and quality testing for the diagnosis of cardiovascular disease (disorders of the heart and blood vessels). YMC has maintained accreditation by the Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Echocardiology Laboratories (ICAEL) since 2000.

Accreditation by the ICAEL means that Yankton Medical Clinic, PC has undergone a thorough review of its operational and technical components by a panel of experts. Patients can rely on ICAEL accreditation as a "seal of approval" that the facility has been carefully critiqued on all aspects of its operations in the field of echocardiography.

Echocardiography is a noninvasive test that provides cardiac structure and flow information to aid in the detection and management of many types of heart disease. This complex imaging technique relies on the experience and training of both the physician and sonographer. Their interpretive and technical abilities determine the diagnostic accuracy of an echocardiographic examination.

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Ryken Named YMC Director of Human Resources

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. is pleased to announce the appointment of Ann Ryken as Director of Human Resources.

Ryken has been with Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. for 18 years, holding the position of Human Resources Assistant for the last 14 years. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in English/Mass Communications from Mount Marty College and a Master's Degree in English from the University of South Dakota.

Ann and her husband, Lance, have three sons, Mac, Drew and Beck.

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Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Earns ACR Accreditation

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in mammography as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology (ACR). Mammography is a specific type of imaging test that uses a low-dose x-ray system to examine breasts. A mammography exam, called a mammogram, is used to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases in women.

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. uses only board certified technologists in mammography to perform digital mammograms for their patients. In addition, Board Certified Radiologist, Will Eidsness, MD, is onsite to read all scans performed at the Clinic.

The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. It is awarded only to facilities meeting ACR Practice Guidelines and Technical Standards after a peer-review evaluation by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. Image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures, and quality assurance programs are assessed. The findings are reported to the ACR Committee on Accreditation, which subsequently provides the practice with a comprehensive report they can use for continuous practice improvement.

The ACR is a national professional organization serving more than 34,000 diagnostic/interventional radiologists, radiation oncologists, nuclear medicine physicians, and medical physicists with programs focusing on the practice of medical imaging and radiation oncology and the delivery of comprehensive health care services.

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YMC Receives CT Accreditation

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in computed tomography (CT) as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology (ACR). CT scanning - sometimes called CAT scanning - is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and tailor treatments for various medical conditions.

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. is Yankton's only healthcare facility to use only technologists board certified in computed tomography to perform CT scans for their patients. In addition, Board Certified Radiologist, Will Eidsness, MD, is onsite to read all scans performed at the Clinic.

The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. It is awarded only to facilities meeting ACR Practice Guidelines and Technical Standards after a peer-review evaluation by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. Image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures, and quality assurance programs are assessed. The findings are reported to the ACR Committee on Accreditation, which subsequently provides the practice with a comprehensive report they can use for continuous practice improvement.

The ACR is a national professional organization serving more than 34,000 diagnostic/interventional radiologists, radiation oncologists, nuclear medicine physicians, and medical physicists with programs focusing on the practice of medical imaging and radiation oncology and the delivery of comprehensive health care services.

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Obstetrician-Gynecologist Joins YMC

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. is pleased to announce the association of Obstetrician/Gynecologist Jill F. Sternquist, M.D.

Dr. Sternquist is a graduate of the University of South Dakota School of Medicine. She completed her Obstetrics and Gynecology residency training at the Creighton University Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska.

Dr. Sternquist will provide medical and surgical treatment of diseases unique to women, regular examinations, pap smears, infertility treatment, family planning and care of women before, during and after childbirth.

The Clinic is pleased to welcome Dr. Sternquist, her husband, Jason Nelson, and their sons, Easton and Xavier, to Yankton.

Dr. Sternquist began seeing patients at Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. on August 15, 2011. Please call 605-665-5538 to make an appointment.

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Nephrologist Joins YMC

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. is pleased to announce the association of Nephrologist Byron S. Nielsen, M.D.

Dr. Nielsen is a graduate of The University of South Dakota School of Medicine. He completed his Internal Medicine residency training and his nephrology training at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

Dr. Nielsen will provide the diagnosis and treatment of adult kidney diseases including but not limited to those associated with underlying medical ailments, genetic disorders, autoimmune diseases and vasculitis. He also specializes in the treatment of hypertension, electrolyte disturbances, the medical management of kidney stones, and provides both inpatient and outpatient dialysis.

The Clinic is pleased to bring a Nephrologist to our medical community as well as to the many patients he will serve. Please join us in welcoming Dr. Nielsen and his wife, Stacey, and their two sons, Bailey and Cade, to Yankton.

Dr. Nielsen will be begin seeing patients on August 1, 2011. For an appointment please 605-665-1082.

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YMC Earns MRI Accreditation

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology (ACR). MRI is a noninvasive medical test that utilizes magnetic fields to produce anatomical images of internal body parts to help physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions.

The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. It is awarded only to facilities meeting ACR Practice Guidelines and Technical Standards after a peer-review evaluation by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. Image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures, and quality assurance programs are assessed. The findings are reported to the ACR Committee on Accreditation, which subsequently provides the practice with a comprehensive report they can use for continuous practice improvement.

The ACR is a national professional organization serving more than 34,000 diagnostic/interventional radiologists, radiation oncologists, nuclear medicine physicians, and medical physicists with programs focusing on the practice of medical imaging and radiation oncology and the delivery of comprehensive health care services.

Photo left to right: Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. MRI staff includes Will R. Eidsness, MD, Board Certified Radiologist; Tricia Prouty, BS, RT(R)(M)(CT)(MR); Allene Sommer, RT(R)(M)(CT)(MR); and Jean DeGroot, RT(R)(M)(CT)(MR).

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Mikkelsen Receives Golden Apple Award

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Board Certified Internist, Beth Mikkelsen, MD, is the recipient of the 2010-2011 Golden Apple Award, Yankton Campus, from the Internal Medicine Department of Sanford School of Medicine of The University of South Dakota. The award was presented to Dr. Mikkelsen in recognition of, and with gratitude for, her continuing dedication, sacrifice, and passion for excellence in serving as the Internal Medicine Faculty Member who most helped and inspired the 3rd and 4th Year Medical Student Classes of 2011 and 2012.

Dr. Mikkelsen has been in practice at Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. since August 1999. She is the Medical Director of Hospice and Palliative Care and of Dakota Diabetes, both at Avera Sacred Heart Hospital and an Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine at Sanford School of Medicine of The University of South Dakota.

Photo: Lori A. Hansen, MD, FACP, FACCP, Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Board Certified Pulmonologist and Yankton Campus Dean of Sanford School of Medicine of The University of South Dakota presenting Beth A. Mikkelsen, MD with the Golden Apple Award.

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YMC Cardiologist Completes CCT Program

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. is pleased to announce that Will C. Hurley, MD, FACC, has met the level two training requirements for verification of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography (CCT) experience by the Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography (SCCT).

Dr. Hurley completed level two CCT training for the SCCT by meeting rigorous standards through acquisition, interpretation and evaluation of CCT studies, as well as completing hours of continuing medical education related to CCT.

SCCT is the international professional society representing physicians, scientists and technologists advocating for research, education and clinical excellence in the use of cardiovascular computed tomography, for the benefit of improved patient care. Since SCCT's inception in 2005, the membership has grown to 4,000 -which includes cardiologists, radiologists, technologists and administrators from 52 countries around the world

Dr. Hurley is Board Certified in the Subspecialty of Cardiovascular Disease, as well as Nuclear Cardiology. He is a Fellow with the American College of Cardiology, an Associate Fellow of the American College of Chest Physicians; and a member of the American Medical Association, American College of Physicians, Mayo Clinic Alumni Association, University of SD Alumni Association, South Dakota State Medical Association, and SD 7th District Society Medical Association. He is also currently a Clinical Assistant Professor with Sanford School of Medicine of The University of South Dakota. Dr. Hurley has been with Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. since November 2001.

Dr. Hurley also provides outreach services at Wagner Community Hospital, Wagner, SD.

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YMC Awards Medical Student Scholarship

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. awards a $5,000 scholarship to a third-year medical student of Sanford School of Medicine of The University of South Dakota, with preference given to those entering a primary care field (Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, OB/GYN) with an intention to return to practice medicine within a 50-mile radius of Yankton, SD. The 2011 Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Medical Student Scholarship was awarded to Brandon D. Steger of Vermillion.

Pictured above is the Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Scholarship Committee (l to r): Leona Cammock, MD (Family Medicine); Mary Lee Villanueva, MD (Oncology/Hematology); David W. Withrow, MD, FAAP (Pediatrics); scholarship winner Brandon Steger; Tyler Hanson, MD (Internal Medicine); and Amy Eichfeld, MD, FACOG (Obstetrics/Gynecology). Not pictured: Mary J. Milroy, MD, FACS (Breast Surgery).

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MED Midwest Medical Edition Magazine in 2011

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. was chosen as one of eight cover stories for MED Midwest Medical Edition magazine in 2011. MED magazine reports the very latest in regional medical news and information to their readership of 3,500 South Dakota area physicians.
Click here to view the PDF

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Weber Receives Humanism in Medicine Award

Scott A. Weber, DO, Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Family & Sports Medicine Physician, was recently presented with the 2011 Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award by The Arnold P. Gold Foundation.

Dr. Paul Bunger (on right) presenting Dr. Scott Weber (on left) with the 2011 Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award.

Nominations for the Humanism in Medicine Award were made by faculty members and fourth year medical students at Sanford School of Medicine The University of South Dakota.

Nominations were based on the following criteria:
· Consistently demonstrates compassion and empathy
· Acts as a role model for professional behavior
· Shows respect for all
· Demonstrates cultural sensitivity in working with people of diverse backgrounds
· Displays effective communication and listening skills

With this honor, Dr. Weber is now a member of the Gold Humanism Honor Society, an international society with 92 established medical school chapters.

Dr. Weber has been in practice at Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. since April 2002. He is currently a Clinical Assistant Professor at Sanford School of Medicine The University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD; the Director of Sports Medicine at Mount Marty College, Yankton, SD; and is Board Certified in Family Medicine and Sports Medicine.

In 2001 the prestigious Humanism Award was awarded to recently retired Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Cardiologist, Michael R. McVay, MD.

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FREE SCREENINGS DISCLOSE SUSPECTED SKIN CANCERS

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Board Certified Dermatologist, James W. Young, D.O., FAOCD, conducted free skin cancer screenings on May 3rd. Approximately thirty-five people, many of whom had never been examined before by a dermatologist, attended the screening.

Dr. Young volunteered his time to conduct free skin cancer screenings in support of the national program sponsored by the American Academy of Dermatology and Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Of the thirty-five people screened, many had suspicious lesions which will necessitate follow up, several of those could possibly be non-melanoma skin cancer, or melanoma skin cancer, the most serious form of skin cancer.

More than one million Americans will probably get skin cancer this year. However, if detected and treated early, this disease can often be cured. If we learn the early warning signs of skin cancer and conduct self-examinations, we can put a stop to this ever-growing disease.

Dr. Young has been in practice at Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. since June 1998. For appointments at his dermatology outreach clinic in Freeman call 605-925-4219 and in Vermillion call 605-624-8643.

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Audiologist Attends Convention in San Diego

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Clinical Audiologist, Jason R. Howe, MS, FAAA, CCC-A, recently attended the American Academy of Audiology Annual Conference in Chicago, IL. This meeting is designed for clinical audiologists, dispensing audiologists, educational audiologists, industrial audiologists, and research audiologists interested in hearing, hearing loss, dizziness, tinnitus, and hearing aids.

Topics included: Auditory evaluation in patients treated with chemotherapy and chemoradiotherapy; Effects of different polarities on high intensity tone-pips in auditory brainstem response threshold measurements; Normative data on vestibular evoked myogenic potential in children; Grand rounds in adult hearing aids; Vestibular rehabilitation in an audiology clinic; Benefits and limitations of advanced hearing aid design; Benefits and limitations of extended-wear hearing aids; Interpretation of vestibular function tests; Ethics in audiology; Healthcare and regulatory issues; and Preservation of spatial hearing with new hearing aid technologies.

Howe offers audiology evaluations and services for pediatric through adult patients. Appointments may be scheduled at Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. by calling (605) 665-1722; or at Vermillion Medical Clinic by calling 605-624-8643.

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YMC Internist Recognized By Sanford School of Medicine

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Internal Medicine physician, Tyler Hanson, MD, was recently recognized by Sanford School of Medicine of The University of South Dakota (SSOM) as an Outstanding Faculty member.

According to SSOM, "Dr. Tyler Hanson is a remarkable assistant professor and physician. SSOM is fortunate to have him as a teacher and role model for our medical students."

The following are comments from several of his medical students:

"[Dr. Hanson is] extremely down to earth and is devoted to excellence in scholarship, he urges students to be stretched in their understanding of pathology and treatment. He is an excellent diagnostician."

"[Dr. Hanson is] an excellent instructor, (and his) enthusiasm for teaching is clearly evident; he teaches and sets good example both in his medical knowledge and his clinical interactions. He genuinely cares about both his patients and the next generation of physicians."

"[Dr. Hanson is] always compassionate towards his patients, no matter how tall the task. I have found myself thinking several times when faced with a difficult situation, 'How would Dr. Hanson handle this?' He is quick (to) share a joke or laugh, and he never does this at the expenses of another individual. I think we could all benefit from observing Dr. Hanson in the hopes of realizing that we all may learn to share our talents so readily and effortlessly."

Dr. Hanson has been in practice at Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. since August 2008.

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Audiologist Attends Convention in Arizona

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Clinical Audiologist Jason R. Howe, MS, FAAA, CCC-A recently attended the American Auditory Society Scientific and Technical Meeting in Scottsdale, AZ. This meeting is designed for audiologists, neurologists, neurotologists, otolaryngologists, oto-neurologists, scientists, and students in these respected areas interested in hearing, hearing loss, dizziness, tinnitus, and hearing aids.

Topics included: Improved intelligibility in noise with directional microphones; Benefits and complications of extended-wear hearing aids; Improved sensitivity of diagnosing Ménière's disease using SP/AP area ratios; Implantable technology for the hearing impaired; Critical factors in children with auditory processing disorders; Effects of minimal hearing loss in children in the classroom and in noise; Transtympanic electrically-evoked auditory brainstem response adaptation; Differential diagnoses in children with balance disorders; Cognitive degradation in untreated hearing loss; Reduction in mental fatigue in hearing aid wearers; and Histocompatibility complex in cochlear haircells exposed to interferon-alpha.

Howe offers audiology evaluations and services for pediatric through adult patients. Appointments may be scheduled at Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. by calling (605) 665-1722 or Vermillion Medical Clinic by calling (605) 624-8643.

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Clinical Audiologist Attends Mayo Clinic Videoconference

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Clinical Audiologist, Jason R. Howe, MS, FAAA, CCC-A, recently attended the Mayo Clinic 21st Annual Audiology Videoconference simulcasted at the University of South Dakota Speech and Hearing Clinic in Vermillion. The meeting is designed for physicians, audiologists, and scientists interested in hearing, hearing loss, dizziness, tinnitus, and hearing aids.

Topics included: Clinic updates in vestibular pathologies including Meniere's disease, vestibular migraine, and chronic subjective dizziness; Effectiveness of probe microphone measurements; Treatment options for patients with unilateral hearing loss including Baha surgery, transcranial CROS, CROS, and BiCROS hearing aids; Management of audiovestibular patients; Provision of high quality humanitarian hearing healthcare; Utility of audiology in aerospace medicine research; and Managing complicated pediatric cases in audiology.

Howe offers audiology evaluations and services for pediatric through adult patients. Appointments may be scheduled at Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. (605-665-1722) or at Vermillion Medical Clinic (605-624-8643).

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Dr. Hansen Awarded Woman of Distinction

Lori A. Hansen, MD, FACP, FACCP, Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Board Certified Pulmonologist, was announced as the as the 2011 Woman of Distinction Professional Service Award winner during a luncheon on February 21 at the Roncalli Center at Mount Marty College in Yankton, SD. Dr. Hansen was recognized for inspiring, mentoring, and supporting other women in our community in professional endeavors.  

 

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Dr. Yelverton Recertified in Geriatric Medicine

Vermillion Medical Clinic is pleased to announce that Family Medicine Physician, Charles C. Yelverton, MD, has recently renewed his board certification in Geriatric Medicine from the American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM).

ABFM is the national association of family medicine physicians. In order to remain board and subspecialty certified, Dr. Yelverton participates in an ongoing process of continuing education to keep current with the latest advances in medical science and technology in his specialty. In addition, he remains current in patient safety, quality healthcare and creating a responsive patient-focused environment.

Medical specialty certification in the United States is a voluntary process. Board certification demonstrates a physician's exceptional expertise in a particular specialty and subspecialty of medical practice. Certification involves a rigorous process of testing and peer evaluation that is designed and administered by specialists in the specific area of medicine.

Dr. Yelverton has been in practice at Vermillion Medical Clinic since July 1990.

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Yankton Medical Clinic Earns Reaccreditation from AIUM

The Ultrasound Practice Council of the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine is pleased to announce that Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. has achieved reaccreditation in Obstetrics/Gynecology, Abdominal, and General ultrasounds.

"The AIUM's Ultrasound Practice Accreditation Council is reviewing numerous applications for accreditation," states AIUM's Director of Accreditation Paula Woletz, RDMS, RDCS, MPH. "Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. has achieved accreditation in recognition that the practice has met voluntary standards set by the diagnostic ultrasound profession. The entire practice was reviewed, including the practice's personnel; physical facilities; documentation, storage and record-keeping practices; policies and procedures; quality assurance methods; and how the practice meets the AIUM Standards."

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. successfully completed the application process for Obstetrics/Gynecology, Abdominal, and General ultrasound practice accreditation and was awarded accreditation in these areas for a period of three years.

Participation in the AIUM's Ultrasound Practice Accreditation program is voluntary and is available to practices in the following areas of ultrasound: abdominal/general, obstetrical or focused obstetrical, gynecological, vascular, breast, or any combination of theses areas. The accreditation process allows ultrasound practices the opportunity to assess their strengths and weaknesses and initiate changes for improving and strengthening their overall operation. The AIUM developed this program in response to the many changes in the approach to healthcare delivery that have resulted in an increased scrutiny of diagnostic evaluations, as well as technical improvements that have allowed for the expanded use of ultrasound and have dramatically increased the number of physicians and sonographers using this modality.

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YMC Home Care Receives Continued Medicare Certification

A Medicare/Medicaid survey was completed in YMC Home Care by staff from the SD Department of Health on January 11th and 12th. YMC Home Care was found to be in compliance with federal participation requirements with no deficiencies cited.

YMC Home Care has been in operation since November 1993; and provides care in the counties of Yankton, Bon Homme, Clay, Hutchison and Turner. As a result of completing outcome studies and quality improvement projects to maximize the care the offered YMC Home Care has received Outstanding Participation Award for Quality, Quality Partner Award in 2004, and 2008 South Dakota Quality Award for Commitment in Home Care.

If you have questions regarding our services and how we could be of help to you or someone you know please call us at 665-7841.

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YMC Breast Surgeon Recertified By American Board of Surgery

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. is pleased to announce that Breast Surgeon, Mary J. Milroy, M.D. has been recertified as a Diplomat of the American Board of Surgery.

Dr. Milroy earned Diplomat status by passing the American Board of Surgery's stringent recertification examination, a test of the physician's abilities in the field of surgery. American Board of Surgery Diplomats must continue to demonstrate their competence in the specialty by taking recertification exams every 10 years.

Dr. Milroy is a Clinical Associate Professor at Sanford School of Medicine of The University of South Dakota, and also serves on the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (a consortium of professional organizations dedicated to improving survival rates and quality of life for cancer patients through standard-setting, prevention, research, education, and the monitoring of comprehensive, quality care.) She has been in practice at Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. since September 1991.

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YMC Receives ICAVL Accreditation

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Diagnostic Imaging Services, Cardiovascular Laboratory has attained recognition for its commitment to providing a high level of patient care and quality testing for the diagnosis of vascular disease. The facility achieved accreditation by the Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Vascular Laboratories (ICAVL).

Yankton Medical Clinic Diagnostic Imaging Services, Cardiovascular Laboratory located in Yankton, SD, is one of a select number of vascular laboratories in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico to meet or exceed the ICAVL standards for noninvasive vascular testing. During the accreditation process, every aspect of the laboratory's daily operations and its impact on the quality of health care provided to patients is assessed and reviewed. While completing the application, laboratories are required to identify and correct potential problems, revising protocols and validating quality assurance programs.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, costing society over 83.7 billion dollars each year in health services, medications and lost work time due to disability. Stroke, a disorder of the blood supply to the brain, is the third leading cause of death and disability in this country, with 500,000 new strokes occurring annually.

One American dies every 32 seconds of cardiovascular disease, disorders of the heart and blood vessels. Each year, 2 million people in the United States alone develop deep vein thrombosis-blood clots in the veins. This affliction becomes life threatening for 500,000 of those people when the blood clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs.

Early detection of these life-threatening vascular diseases is possible through the use of noninvasive vascular testing techniques performed within vascular laboratories.

Participation in the accreditation process demonstrates the laboratory's attention to a high level of patient care and quality testing. ICAVL accreditation is valid for a period of three years.

The ICAVL is a non-profit organization established with the support of eleven medical societies including physicians, technologists and sonographers that represent medical specialties including cardiology, neurology, radiology, vascular medicine, vascular surgery, neurosurgery, internal medicine and biology.

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YMC Radiologic Technologists Earn Certification in MRI from ARRT

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Radiologic Technologists, Jean DeGroot, Tricia Prouty, and Allene Sommer have recently been certified in MRI by The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, ARRT.

Jean DeGroot, RT(R)(M)(CT)(MR) is a graduate of Avera Sacred Heart School of Radiology. She has worked for Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. since 1990. Jean is registered in Mammography, Radiology, Computerized Tomography (CT) and MRI.

Tricia Prouty, BS, RT(R)(M)(CT)(MR) is a graduate of Avera McKennan School of Radiology and Mount Marty College. She has worked for Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. since 2000. Tricia is registered in Radiology, Mammography, Computerized Tomography (CT) and MRI.

Allene Sommer, RT(R)(M)(CT)(MR), is a graduate of Avera Sacred Heart School of Radiology. She has worked for Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. since 1997. Allene is registered in Radiology, Mammography, Computerized Tomography (CT) and MRI.

ARRT's credential assures patients that Registered Technologists who conduct medical imaging, interventional procedures, and radiation therapy have completed the prescribed educational preparation, passed the appropriate exam, and pledged to abide by stringent ethics requirements - all of which assist them in delivering safe and effective patient care. ARRT ensures their continuing education and ongoing ethical compliance by requiring annual registration of certificates.

The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists promotes high standards of patient care by recognizing individuals qualified in medical imaging, interventional procedures, and radiation therapy. Headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota, ARRT tests, certifies, and annually registers more than 300,000 radiologic technologists across the United States.

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Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Earns ACR Accreditation

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in mammography as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology (ACR). Mammography is a specific type of imaging test that uses a low-dose x-ray system to examine breasts. A mammography exam, called a mammogram, is used to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases in women.

The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. It is awarded only to facilities meeting ACR Practice Guidelines and Technical Standards after a peer-review evaluation by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. Image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures, and quality assurance programs are assessed. The findings are reported to the ACR Committee on Accreditation, which subsequently provides the practice with a comprehensive report they can use for continuous practice improvement.

The ACR is a national professional organization serving more than 34,000 diagnostic/interventional radiologists, radiation oncologists, nuclear medicine physicians, and medical physicists with programs focusing on the practice of medical imaging and radiation oncology and the delivery of comprehensive health care services.

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. is an independent primary and specialty care clinic comprised of 40 physicians.

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YMC Recognized for Quality Lab Services

Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Laboratory has met all criteria for Laboratory Accreditation by COLA, a national healthcare accreditation organization. Accreditation is given only to laboratories that apply rigid standards of quality in day-to-day operations, demonstrate continued accuracy in the performance of proficiency testing, and pass a rigorous on-site laboratory survey. Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. Laboratory has earned COLA accreditation as a result of a long-term commitment to provide quality service to its patients.

COLA is nonprofit, physician-directed organization promoting quality and excellence in medicine and patient care through programs of voluntary education, achievement, and accreditation.

COLA is approved by the federal government and sponsored by the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American Medical Association, the American College of Physicians-American Society of Internal Medicine, and the American Osteopathic Association.

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New Options for People with Hearing Loss

Yankton Medical Clinic P.C. is pleased to offer a new service that will benefit patients with certain types of hearing loss. This technology is now available in the Yankton area for the first time through the Ear, Nose, and Throat and Audiology Departments at Yankton Medical Clinic.

This device is designed to benefit individuals with hearing impairment that isn't amenable to conventional amplification (hearing aids) or other medical or surgical approaches. The best candidates for this type of procedure are those with a conductive or mixed hearing loss (caused by damage to the ear canal or middle ear structures) or those with single-sided deafness. The device is called Baha®, and consists of a surgically-implanted metal component that connects to a removable external processor. It functions by bypassing the damaged middle ear sound conduction mechanism and by routing sound waves from the non-hearing side to the functioning ear by bone conduction.

This technology has proven successful for many patients over the past ten years, but not everyone with hearing loss will benefit from it. Patrick J. Collison, M.D., Otolaryngologist, and Jason Howe, MS, CCC-A, Audiologist, have the training and experience to determine who could be helped by this procedure, and to provide the necessary surgical and follow-up care. They can also provide reliable advice and services if another form of hearing rehabilitation is appropriate.

With the addition of this new technology, Yankton Medical Clinic E.N.T. and Audiology Departments continue to offer the most comprehensive hearing health services in the area.

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