2025 Issue 1 Memorial MEDICAL MILESTONES A legacy of care and compassion Meet the Semien family—nurses dedicated to treating you like family. page 14
2 Memorial Medical Milestones • 2025 Issue 1 MEDICAL MILESTONES is published as a community service for the friends and patrons of Lake Charles Memorial Health System. Information in MEDICAL MILESTONES comes from a wide range of medical experts. It should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about specific content that may affect your health, please contact your healthcare provider. Models may be used in photos and illustrations. To recommend this subscription to a friend or family member, or to request to be removed from this mailing, email marketing@lcmh.com. 2025 © Coffey Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Chad’s second chance Quick thinking—first from friends and then from doctors—saved Chad Babin’s life after a heart attack. It’s Hearti Gras season! Get tips for staying hearthealthy, and learn the signs of a heart attack—for both men and women. Page 4 Providing walk-in injury care with OrthoNOW Clinic For minor orthopedic injuries, like strains and sprains, you can get same-day care without an appointment. See how. Page 10 A man with a mission Eric Linville, MD, has been on several mission trips to bring healthcare to areas in need. Page 8 Don’t mess around when it comes to wildlife See our safety tips for the most common, animal-related injuries and illnesses in Louisiana. Page 18 12 2025 events Aug. 23: Fashion with Purpose Black and White Ball Benefiting the Cancer Fund. The Foundation at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit entity and continues the tradition of philanthropy that Lake Charles Memorial Hospital was founded upon. Every dollar raised is used to assist the health system in funding programs and projects to advance our facilities and technology and directly affects the lives of our patients. May 2: Margarita Mix Off Benefiting the Women and Children’s Fund. March 28: Tim Coffey Memorial Golf Tournament Benefiting the Heart Fund. Scan the QR code to learn more about the Foundation or to make a donation.
lcmh.com 3 From the CEO Lake Charles Memorial Health System 2025 Board of Trustees We understand that convenient access to healthcare is essential to stay up-to-date with preventive screenings, routine wellness visits and unexpected medical needs. As we step into 2025, we remain committed to providing that care. That’s why at the end of 2024, we entered a new era of patient-centered care, thanks to the introduction of Epic, our new electronic medical record system. With this powerful platform, we’re making healthcare simpler and more accessible than ever before. Through MyChart, our patients can easily schedule appointments, access test results, refill prescriptions and pay bills—all from one secure location. It’s about putting control of healthcare into the hands of our patients and empowering them to take charge of their well-being. As you explore this issue of Memorial Medical Milestones, you’ll discover that Memorial is more than just a healthcare system—we are community-focused and community-led. Our priority is people, not just treatments. When you visit Memorial, you’re cared for by neighbors, friends and family. We are dedicated to providing for your healthcare needs and hope you feel the same sense of pride and joy in your healthcare home. Thank you for trusting us with your care. Together, we are building a healthier future. Sincerely, Devon Hyde, President and CEO As a community health system, belonging to the people of this community, LCMHS welcomes the direction and contributions of volunteer leaders from all walks of business, industry and public service to help meet the healthcare needs of all people in SWLA. Mrs. Denise Rau, Chairperson Mr. Louis Todd Sr., Chairman-elect/Vice Chairman and Secretary Dr. Neil Aspinwall, Past Chairman Mr. Devon Hyde, President/CEO and Assistant Secretary Ms. Dawn Johnson, Treasurer Benjamin Azevedo, MD, Medical Staff Past President Collin Bowe, MD, Medical Staff President-elect Alyson Jones, MD, Medical Staff President Mr. Mitch Adrian, Trustee Judge Gene Thibodeaux, Trustee William “Randy” Condos, MD, Trustee Daniel Hall, DPM, Trustee Clifford Courville, MD, Trustee Mr. Joe Miller Jr., Trustee
4 Memorial Medical Milestones • 2025 Issue 1 Heart attack symptoms for men and women Men and women can experience heart attack symptoms differently. Many of the symptoms overlap, but not all. These symptoms can happen to anyone who’s having a heart attack, regardless of their gender: • Chest pain. The classic heart attack symptom is pain coming from the left side of your chest. • Arm pain. This can be in either arm or shoulder. • Shortness of breath. This can happen with or without chest pain. • Feeling weak. This can come with light-headedness, fainting or breaking out into a cold sweat. • Jaw, neck or back pain. Don’t write off other upper body pain. It can signal a heart attack too. Symptoms for women Chest pain is the most common heart attack symptom for women and men alike. But women are more likely to have other, lesser-known symptoms, such as: • Unexplained tiredness. This heart attack symptom is common for women and easy to overlook. • Nausea or vomiting. Don’t assume it’s something you ate or that you caught a bug. • Back pain. This can show up as upper back discomfort. It’s not always a stabbing pain. In women, it can feel like squeezing, pressure or fullness. • Other body pain. Discomfort in the lower chest, stomach, jaw or neck can all signal a heart attack. If you think you’re having a heart attack, getting care immediately is crucial. If you experience any of the signs, call 911. Getting care quickly can reduce damage to the heart. Sources: American Heart Association; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Lake Charles Memorial Health System is helping ensure healthier hearts across SWLA. Hearti Gras is a celebration during National Heart Health Awareness Month with all the jazz of the Mardi Gras season. The proceeds of Hearti Gras support The Foundation at Lake Charles Memorial’s Heart Fund. Laissez les bon temps rouler—it’s season!
lcmh.com 5 Take high blood pressure seriously 8 ways to take control 1. Keep a daily log of your blood pressure readings, taken at the same time each day, to track your progress. 2. Get at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week. That’s about 30 minutes a day, five days a week. 3. Don’t smoke. 4. Eat a healthy diet. Limit sodium and alcohol, which raise blood pressure. 5. Maintain a healthy weight. 6. Learn ways to reduce your stress levels. 7. Take your blood pressure medication as prescribed. 8. If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar levels and follow your recommended treatment, including medication. Over time, high blood pressure can increase your risk for heart disease and stroke, as well as damage your kidneys and eyes. The good news is that in most cases, you can take steps to reduce your blood pressure to healthier levels with your healthcare provider’s help. Get checked You can have your pressure taken at your healthcare provider’s office, with a pharmacy’s digital blood pressure machine or with a blood pressure monitor you use at home. For the most accurate measurements: • Avoid smoking, eating, drinking or exercising within 30 minutes of the measurement. • Sit with your feet flat on the floor and don’t cross your legs. Sit so that your back is supported. • Rest your arm on a table at chest level. • Don’t talk while your blood pressure is being measured. What is a good blood pressure reading? A normal blood pressure level is less than 120/80 mm Hg, usually called “120 over 80” by your provider. The first number is your systolic blood pressure—the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. The second is your diastolic blood pressure—the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats. The most recent guidelines by the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association list high blood pressure—also called hypertension—as 130/80 mm Hg or higher. Common causes of high blood pressure are: • Unhealthy lifestyle choices, like not getting enough regular physical activity • Conditions such as diabetes and obesity • Being pregnant Sources: American Heart Association; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Get in the spirit of Hearti Gras Visit lcmh.com/heartigras to learn more about heart-focused events this month, donate to our Heart Fund and more!
6 Memorial Medical Milestones • 2025 Issue 1 Helping first responders stop the bleed As SWLA’s only trauma center, our dedicated team takes the responsibility for providing injury prevention education to the community, as well as providing high-level training to medical professionals and members of the community responsible for the provision of trauma care. Thanks to the supporters of The Foundation at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital’s Trauma Fund, over 500 combat application tourniquets were donated to first responders in 2024. “We focused on supplying highquality, safe tourniquets to agencies that are located further away from our trauma center,” explains Scott Kyle, Director of Emergency Management and Injury Prevention at Lake Charles Memorial Health System. Recipients included industry partners, several law enforcement agencies and volunteer fire departments in the area. “The use of a tourniquet, before getting a patient to the hospital, can make a significant difference in the outcome of treatment,” Scott says. “Because of the community’s support for heart Call 911
lcmh.com 7 Register your AED today and help save lives in southwest Louisiana! Does your business or organization have an automated external defibrillator (AED) in the building? Download the free PulsePoint AED app on your mobile device to register your AED location. Together, we can save lives and improve response times for cardiac arrests in southwest Louisiana. When a medical emergency strikes, don’t hesitate or doubt: Call 911 at the first sign of a heart attack. Heart attack symptoms to look for: • Chest pain • Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, back, neck or jaw • Shortness of breath Why calling 911 matters • Receive immediate care from EMTs. They can begin medical treatment right away. This is something you won’t get if you drive. • Safe and fast transport. EMTs know how to get to the hospital quickly and safely. They can bypass traffic and address any worsening symptoms— something you can’t do in your car. • Early hospital communication. EMTs can talk to the hospital so everything is ready for your care as soon as you get there, leading to better outcomes. According to the American Heart Association’s nationwide research, people who call 911 get treated up to 20 minutes faster, experience better survival rates and can reduce damage to the heart. Give your heart a tune-up Whether you need surgery or rehabilitation or have a cardiac emergency, our team of heart experts can help. Visit lcmh.com/heart to learn more about our heart and vascular services. of the Trauma Fund, we are afforded the privilege to better equip first responders with lifesaving training and equipment— so by the time patients get to us, they have the best opportunity for the best outcomes.” Emergency Management Director Scott Kyle, right, provides Sulphur Chief of Police John Wall with donated tourniquets for all patrol officers. attack symptoms Download the PulsePoint AE device to register your AED l Together, we can save lives a response times for cardiac ar Louisiana! Does your business or organi device in the building? Scan the QR codes for m AED and how to registe Download the device to regis Together, we c response time Louisiana! Does your bus device in the b Scan the AED and Scan the QR codes for more info on PulsePoint AED and see how to register your device! Learn more on page 12 about how AEDs can save a life.
Dr. Linville serving on various mission trips. 8 Memorial Medical Milestones • 2025 Issue 1 For Eric Linville, MD, the journey into healthcare began with an unexpected realization: His hands could be used to make a greater impact on people’s lives by offering medical care rather than fabricating metal as a welder. Driven by a desire to help people on a deeper level, he made a life-changing decision to pursue a career as a registered nurse. But this was only the beginning of Dr. Linville’s calling. As a nursing student, he joined a surgeon on a mission trip to Africa. Witnessing the lifesaving potential of surgery in places with little access to medical care sparked a passion that went beyond just nursing. He wanted to operate—to make a difference on a larger scale. He attended medical school at Louisiana State University in Shreveport and completed a residency in Houston before returning to Lake Charles—his hometown—with his wife and two children to serve the SWLA community. But he didn’t stop his mission trips. Bringing care to remote corners of Kenya On a recent mission trip to the remote islands of Kenya’s Lake Victoria, Dr. Linville and several others from his church visited an area where access to healthcare is a luxury, not a given. For many, the cost of even the most basic medical services is prohibitive. So he and his team came prepared— with medical supplies, expertise and a resolve to provide free care to the people who need it most. The services performed may seem minor to some—removing cysts, extracting foreign objects or performing soft tissue repairs—but they are transformative to the recipients. For these individuals, such treatments aren’t just about convenience or comfort; they’re a matter of life and death, of dignity and hope. Alongside these surgeries, he and his team also brought essential medications, treating conditions like high blood pressure and arthritis, and offered a lifeline to people who would otherwise have none. For those experiencing more advanced conditions, Mission-minded One surgeon’s journey to serve
a Dr. Linville and his wife, Molly, have served together on past mission trips. lcmh.com 9 General surgeons serving you Our highly trained general surgeons and their staff provide patients with the most sophisticated surgical treatments, with safety as their top priority. A wide range of surgical treatments—minimally invasive outpatient, robotic-assisted and more acute inpatient procedures—is available. . medicine the mission went further. The group gathered funds to help patients access the specialized care they couldn’t find locally, including care at a pediatric hospital for a young girl and cancer treatments out of the area for another. Beyond treating physical ailments, the mission provided education in basic wound care and hygiene—skills that empower local people long after the team has left. Restoring health and dignity After more than 10 medical mission trips, Dr. Linville embraces the opportunity to come face-to-face with different communities and their unique set of challenges, but with the same unifying goal to provide compassionate care. His wife, a nurse herself, has previously joined him on these missions, and they hope to instill these values in their two young children. In time, as their children grow older, they look forward to bringing them along to witness and participate in the work that grounds their family in purpose and empathy. Amanda Ellington, MD, is boardcertified in general surgery with a special focus on breast cancer and surgical breast disease. As Director of the High-Risk Breast Clinic at Memorial, she has helped hundreds of women with elevated breast cancer risk and those diagnosed with breast cancer through their health journey and to a successful outcome. Richard Shimer, MD, is a boardcertified general surgeon. He also serves as the Medical Director of Trauma Services at Memorial Hospital, the area’s only designated Level III trauma center. He specializes in minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, endoscopy and trauma surgery. Darin Doumite, MD, is a boardcertified general surgeon specializing in advanced laparoscopic surgery and minimally invasive procedures. He performs robotic-assisted surgery, allowing his patients to recover with less pain and a quicker return to activity and work. Dr. Doumite focuses on complex hernia repair and gastric and colorectal cancer. Reflecting on his experiences, Dr. Linville shares how mission work has changed his view of medicine: “Regardless of where I am, it’s someone who needs care,” he says. Whether he’s in a hospital in the U.S. or on an isolated island in Africa, he’s driven by the same calling— to meet people’s basic needs and help restore their health and dignity. Dr. Linville and his team serve patients in SWLA at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, with a spirit of service and a commitment to change lives, one surgery at a time. Do you need surgery? Our expert team of surgeons can help. Visit lcmh.com/surgery to learn more about our surgical services and how to prepare.
10 Memorial Medical Milestones • 2025 Issue 1 Getting quick, quality injury care immediately following an injury is fundamental in the healing process. OrthoNOW Clinic is here to provide that care. OrthoNOW Clinic is an option for patients who have experienced a non-emergent orthopedic injury resulting from: • Home activities • Workplace accidents • Playing sports What can be treated at OrthoNOW Clinic? We can provide care for common joint injuries in the following areas: • Shoulder • Wrist • Elbow • Back • Hip • Hand • Knee • Foot and ankle We also treat these common conditions: • Compartment syndrome • Contusions • Fractures • Impingements • Joint dislocations and instability • Ligament tears • Sprains • Strains • Tendon issues OrthoNOW Clinic Walk-in injury care Setting the standard for sports medicine Memorial physicians and athletic trainers are everywhere student athletes need us to be As the official sports medicine sponsor of McNeese Athletics and covering all Calcasieu Parish School Board high school sports, Lake Charles Memorial Health System sets the standard for sports medicine in southwest Louisiana. Using cuttingedge techniques along with pioneering noninvasive and surgical treatments helps minimize trauma and prolong an athlete’s career. It’s what we do. That’s the Memorial difference. Visit lcmh.com/sportsmedicine to learn more about how we help student athletes thrive. No appointment is necessary. We accept most insurances. Lake Charles Memorial Health System OrthoNOW Clinic 4345 Nelson Road, 1st Floor, Lake Charles, LA 70605 What services can be provided? • Bracing • Casting • Splinting • Exam and evaluation • X-rays Coming soon
lcmh.com 11 Radiation treatment plays a crucial role in the fight against cancer, effectively targeting and shrinking tumors while killing cancer cells. At Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, the Radiation Oncology Department stands out as the premier facility for cancer care in southwest Louisiana. The level of expertise and technology available is on par with top facilities in larger metropolitan areas, making it a vital resource for patients in the region. Leading the department is James Maze, MD, a board-certified and fellowship-trained radiation oncologist who has been part of the Memorial Radiation Oncology team since 1995. “Cancer treatment can consist of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation,” Dr. Maze says. “I am proud to represent one of the three, providing SWLA with a unified cancer center at Memorial.” His dedication to his field is clear: “I got into this job because I wanted to help people. Cancer is life-altering, and it’s rewarding and fulfilling for me to be a part of a patient’s journey.” The team-based approach to healing at Lake Charles Memorial’s Radiation Oncology Department is a source of pride for Dr. Maze. Patients consistently share words of gratitude and praise, reinforcing what he knows to be true: The staff members in Radiation Oncology don’t just treat cancer—they inspire hope. Every member of the team is dedicated to empowering patients through knowledge and care, offering a sense of possibility during a challenging time. “In addition to treatment, we teach our patients about their disease, what to expect, and guide them on the path to healing,” Dr. Maze says. By combining cutting-edge technology with compassionate support, the department is committed to making each patient’s journey one of strength and resilience. With a commitment to advanced care and compassionate support, the Radiation Oncology Department at Lake Charles Memorial continues to provide quality cancer treatment for the local community. Radiation Oncology Treating cancer and restoring hope Accredited by the Commission on Cancer To learn more about our cancer care services, visit lcmh.com/cancer.
Chad Babin’s journey to recovery after a heart attack On April 16, 2024, Chad Babin began his day like any other. He woke up at 4 a.m., made coffee, took a moment for reading and reflection, and headed off to the gym for a 5 a.m. workout. He walked into the gym, greeted several friends and headed into an empty aerobics room, where he sat on the rowing machine and began his workout. That was the last thing he remembered before waking up in the intensive care unit later that day. A short time after beginning his workout, Chad’s friends found him lying on the ground with no pulse and immediately began chest compressions. The friends’ efforts, along with an automated external defibrillator (AED) in the gym, kept Chad alive until EMS and his wife, Candi, could arrive to transport him to the hospital. It was there he learned he had two blockages in his heart and would require open heart surgery—hopefully sooner, rather than later. Chad was a healthy 44-year-old with an active lifestyle. Although heart disease ran in his family, he had little reason to believe that anything like this would happen to him. Apart from occasional shortness of breath, Chad assumed his heart health was nothing to worry about. Exploring his options Once he was home from the hospital with his family and reassured by the presence of a cardiac LifeVest, as a temporary safeguard against another heart attack, Chad and Candi began exploring permanent treatment options for Chad’s heart. “We were talking about getting an opinion from a surgeon in Houston when we got a text to go see Dr. Lugo at Memorial,” Chad recalls. Determined to explore all options, Chad consulted with Gregory Lugo, MD, at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital. During their first meeting, Dr. Lugo immediately recognized the urgency of his condition. With clear communication, ‘I’ve been given “I don’t know how much time I have left, but I’ve been given a second chance—and I’m committed to making the most of it.” —Chad Babin a second chance’ 12 Memorial Medical Milestones • 2025 Issue 1
lcmh.com 13 later. Little did he know just how soon he would need that focus. Today, he, Candi and their three children are profoundly thankful. Reflecting on this journey, Chad says: “The money I leave on Earth when I die will compound interest when I’m gone, but the day I step off this Earth is the last time I can compound the memories. I don’t know how much time I have left, but I’ve been given a second chance—and I’m committed to making the most of it.” Dr. Lugo explained that a surgery was not only necessary but needed to happen as soon as possible. Just three days later, Dr. Lugo performed a lifesaving double bypass surgery. His straightforward approach and expertise gave both Chad and Candi confidence and peace of mind, reassuring them that he was exactly the right surgeon for this critical procedure. Dr. Lugo’s ability to instill trust put them at ease and was invaluable as they moved forward with such a significant operation. Finding support in community The Babins are originally from the Lafayette area and have been deeply moved by the incredible sense of community they’ve found here—both at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital and among friends. “The outreach we received was well over 200 different individuals sharing words of support, bringing food, cutting our grass and letting us know we weren’t alone in this,” the Babins say. “And we have only been here for five years.” From the physicians and nurses to the housekeeping team, Chad felt he was truly in caring hands, surrounded by people who went above and beyond to personalize his care and recovery. At the start of 2024, Chad’s business goals for the year focused on gratitude, aiming to appreciate life’s blessings, unaware of what was coming his way a few months Schedule a consultation today If you need heart care, our team is ready to help. Call 337-284-8480 to schedule a consultation or visit lcmh.com/heart to learn more about what we have to offer. Gregory Lugo, MD, performed Chad’s double bypass heart surgery.
14 Memorial Medical Milestones • 2025 Issue 1 Sharon Semien, a seasoned registered nurse, has worked at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital for over 35 years. She’s seen the healthcare landscape evolve, from her early days as a new graduate nurse on the 8th floor of the patient tower to her current role in the emergency department, where she spent much of her nursing career. But she’s not the first—or last—member of her family to work at Memorial. “Nursing runs in our blood. When I was a kid, I saw my mother’s nursing career and I wanted to be a part of that,” Sharon shares. Sharon’s mother, who retired from Lake Charles Memorial Hospital after more than 30 years of service in medicalsurgical nursing, continues to practice even today, in a part-time capacity, at 84 years old. Sharon often reflects on the impact her mother had on her own life, and now she has the privilege of watching her children carry that torch. Passing on a love of nursing What Sharon values most now is the fact that her children, CJ and Cloee, have chosen to follow in her footsteps, bringing their own passion and commitment to nursing at Lake Charles Memorial Health System. CJ, who graduated from McNeese State University in spring 2023, works in the emergency department at Memorial, continuing the family tradition of care. His journey to nursing was influenced by his mother’s unwavering passion for her work and the stability that a nursing career could offer. CJ focuses on making a difference during some of the most trying moments of a person’s life, which speaks volumes about his empathy and commitment to his patients. To him, the unique connection to the community that ER nurses experience makes the job especially meaningful. “You’re not just a nurse, but a friend,” he says. “You see people at their most vulnerable, sometimes at their worst, and you’re right there beside them.” Cloee, who also graduated from McNeese State University—just a year after her brother—works at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital for Women in the Family Birth Center as a labor and delivery nurse. She’s always had a passion for nurturing others, and her work in labor and delivery is the perfect fit. “I see myself as a coach,” Cloee says, referring to her role in guiding women through the challenges and rewards of childbirth. ‘Nursing is in our blood’ For the Semien family, nursing is more than just a job—it’s a legacy
Want to join our team of nurses? We’re hiring! Memorial offers generous benefits, including sign-on bonuses for experienced nurses. Visit lcmh.com/careers to learn more and apply. “I think she pulls out pom-poms when she goes to work every day,” jokes Sharon, reflecting Cloee’s infectious enthusiasm and dedication to her patients. Learning from their mom Sharon’s admiration for her children’s commitment to nursing is evident. “I’m glad my kids enjoy getting up every day and going to work,” she says, beaming with pride. “It’s a beautiful thing to see them find that passion early on.” She’s proud of the career path they have chosen, as it allows a stable future as they continue into adulthood. For CJ and Cloee, the influence of their mother and grandmother is clear. CJ’s upbringing in the healthcare environment, where his mother worked long shifts and juggled her nursing career with motherhood, shaped his understanding of what it means to be a compassionate caregiver. “You see the characteristics that make our mom a good mother also make her a good nurse,” Cloee shares. Both children remember growing up in the ER, witnessing their mother’s ability to balance tenderness with professionalism. They learned the importance of being there for others, whether it’s holding a newborn baby or comforting a grieving family. It’s no surprise that Sharon sees the same tenderness and focus in her children— qualities that make them great nurses. “To see my two do that, I feel elated. I must have done something right,” says Sharon. Nurturing a nursing career The nursing environment at Lake Charles Memorial Health System, where Sharon, CJ and Cloee all work, has helped foster this passion for care. For CJ, the hospital’s welcoming atmosphere made a difference, especially when he started working the night shift. Although their daily responsibilities and interactions with patients differ, Sharon, CJ and Cloee are grateful to share a common dedication to nursing and take joy in forming meaningful connections with the patients they care for. “Staff can make or break it,” CJ reflects. “It’s a casual environment, but when it’s time to work, it’s time to work.” The camaraderie and balance of professionalism are what make Memorial an ideal place for nurturing a nursing career. The Semien family’s commitment to nursing is more than just a career choice—it’s a legacy of love, compassion and service to the community. Whether in the ER or the delivery room, the Semiens embody the core values of nursing—tenderness, dedication and a deep sense of responsibility to those they care for. Their story proves that nursing truly runs in their blood. lcmh.com 15
16 Memorial Medical Milestones • 2025 Issue 1 Congratulations, winners! 2024 Golden Stethoscope Awards Robert Craig Broussard, MD Pulmonology “Committed to the professional elements of character and rooted in integrity and selfless service, Dr. Broussard stands firm on values, principles and his convictions. Well-respected by his staff and colleagues alike, he is often noted as ‘the type of physician you want on your team.’ Some point to Dr. Broussard as the definition of dedication when it comes to his patients. Those in his care know him for his unwavering consideration and pulmonary expertise. Donald Higgins, MD Family Medicine “‘Thrilled’ hardly captures the excitement felt amongst members of the medical staff at LCMHS when hometown native Dr. Higgins completed his Memorial/ LSUHSC Family Medicine Residency in 2017 and immediately signed on as a member of Memorial’s medical staff. From the beginning, his enthusiasm for expanding his skills, lending a helping hand to his colleagues and excelling in patient care has earned him a stellar reputation throughout SWLA. Peter Karam, MD Hospital Medicine “One who consistently demonstrates exceptional clinical skills, outstanding diagnostic acumen and an unwavering commitment to delivering compassionate care to hospitalized patients, Dr. Karam is the real deal. Specializing in internal medicine, he is known not only for his medical expertise but also for his interpersonal skills. Known as Pete among friends, he goes beyond the realm of internal medicine, earning a true specialty in connecting with people. Gary Kohler, MD Pulmonology “What does dedication look like? Dr. Kohler. It’s evident through his 30 years of experience caring for patients often referred to as the ‘sickest of the sick.’ As a pulmonologist, he can frequently be found at patients’ bedsides in the ICU or engaged in extensive research on the latest respiratory treatments available. Previously voted by his peers as a ‘Top Doctor’ in Louisiana, Dr. Kohler is dedicated to his profession and passionate about patient care. Patients commend him for his thoroughness and compassion. Alyson Jones, MD Physical Medicine “As the sole physiatry specialist at LCMHS, Dr. Jones maintains a bustling schedule. In her role as the PM&R Medical Director, she collaborates closely with colleagues in admitting, nursing, case management and rehabilitation to assess and treat individuals, aiming to restore them to their previous quality of life. Caring for both inpatients and outpatients and earning recognition from patients as ‘their greatest cheerleader,’ Dr. Jones is highly visible, accessible and supportive. Collin Bowe, MD Hospital Medicine “We can’t say enough about Dr. Bowe. He is a difference maker. He has been an asset since he joined the medical staff in early 2018. He serves on a multitude of committees, including Emergency Room, Medical Executive, Quality & Safety, Utilization Review, Credentials, and IT Governance. Dr. Bowe is highly involved in Memorial’s Hospitalist program and has worked tirelessly to help mold and shape it into the successful medical service line that it is today.
lcmh.com 17 LCMHS recognizes outstanding healthcare service providers who demonstrate excellence in inpatient care, customer service, communication and teamwork. These providers have gone above and beyond to care for their patients and positively impact their workplaces. Michael Cormier, MD Dermatology “Some doctors have a true servant’s heart, and Dr. Cormier exemplifies this dedication. A native of Lake Charles and a graduate of McNeese and LSU, Dr. Cormier has practiced dermatology and giving back to the community he calls home since 1986. For 38 years, Dr. Cormier has donated one day each week outside of his private practice to provide care to patients at Moss Memorial Health Clinic. Mario Valencia, MD Behavioral Health “Dr. Valencia, Medical Director of the Archer Institute Adult Psychiatry Unit and leader of the addiction program at Memorial’s Behavioral Health Clinic, has positively impacted countless lives throughout southwest Louisiana. Known for his compassionate approach, he goes above and beyond to prevent patients from slipping through the cracks. His dedication has earned him deep respect among both English- and Spanish-speaking communities. Richard Martinez, MD Diagnostic Radiology “In the realm of southwest Louisiana’s medical community, the mere mention of interventional radiologist inevitably brings Dr. Martinez top-of-mind. With an extensive tenure spanning over two decades serving various healthcare facilities across the region, his mastery in the field of diagnostic radiology is unparalleled. Dr. Martinez is celebrated for his clinical expertise and efficiency, readily available at any hour to provide timely diagnosis to both providers and patients. Kenneth Leger, MD Internal Medicine “Dr. Leger holds a unique dual role as both an internal medicine provider and a pediatrician, excelling in both capacities while also serving as the Medical Director of three rural health clinics: The Cameron Medical Clinic, The Clinic of Welsh and his primary practice at The Iowa Health Clinic. Raised in Welsh, Louisiana, Dr. Leger consistently receives acclaim for his professionalism, approachability and empathetic demeanor. Sarpreet Basra, MD Gastroenterology “July 22, 2015, was a great day for Lake Charles Memorial when Dr. Basra joined the Memorial medical staff and the Digestive Health team. Dr. Basra provides comprehensive care in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal and liver conditions, and he is one of our highest acclaimed physicians on staff when it comes to online positive patient reviews. Brian Clements, MD Internal Medicine “’The good physician treats the disease; the great physician treats the patient who has the disease’ describes Dr. Clements’ approach to patient care to a T. Dr. Clements has been a beacon of compassionate healing, enriching countless lives across SWLA. Patients praise his empathetic approach, describing him as a kind, attentive listener who prioritizes their wellbeing.
18 Memorial Medical Milestones • 2025 Issue 1 Watch for wildlife How to stay safe while enjoying time outdoors Southwest Louisiana is home to diverse wildlife, and although these animals are an important part of the ecosystem, encounters can sometimes lead to serious injuries. Being aware of how to prevent and treat wildlife-related injuries can help keep you safe in Louisiana’s outdoors. Stay informed and stay safe while enjoying Louisiana’s great outdoors. Knowing how to prevent and handle wildlife encounters can make all the difference in keeping you and your loved ones safe. Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Louisiana Department of Health; Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries; Mayo Clinic; U.S. Department of Agriculture Feral hogs Feral hogs are an increasing problem in Louisiana, and while they generally avoid humans, they can become aggressive if threatened. Hogs are also known to carry diseases that can spread to humans. Experts recommend using high levels of precaution when field dressing or butchering feral hogs. Field dressing, butchering or consuming feral hog meat can result in swine brucellosis, pseudorabies, classical swine fever (hog cholera), tularemia, foot and mouth disease, and vesicular stomatitis. Safety tips: • When processing or consuming feral hog meat, always use rubber gloves and protective eyewear. • Do not eat, drink or use tobacco products when handling raw feral pork. • Refrigerate carcass/meat as soon as possible. • Cook meat to at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Snakes Venomous snakes, such as cottonmouths (water moccasins), copperheads and rattlesnakes, are found across Louisiana. Snake bites can lead to severe pain; swelling; tissue damage; and, in rare cases, death, if left untreated. Louisiana is home to 47 native species of snakes, but only seven of those are venomous. Safety tips: • If you are bitten by a snake, seek medical attention as soon as possible to start antivenom. If you are able, have someone else drive you to the hospital to avoid further injuries if you become dizzy or pass out. • If possible, take a photo of the snake to aid in further treatment. • Do not apply a tourniquet, cut the wound, suck out the venom, apply ice or submerge the wound in water for medical treatment. Alligators While they typically avoid humans, attacks can occur when alligators are provoked or feel threatened. Bites from these powerful animals can cause severe trauma, including fractures, deep lacerations and infections due to bacteria in their mouths. Safety tips: • In the unlikely event you are injured by an alligator, seek immediate medical attention. Apply pressure to stop bleeding, and keep the wound elevated. Avoid excessive washing of the wound to allow medical professionals to properly assess it. • If you see an alligator in the roadway or unexpected place, do not attempt to move it. To do so in the state of Louisiana is not only highly dangerous, but also illegal. • It is also recommended not to swim in swimming holes, lakes or ponds during dusk and dawn, when alligators are actively hunting for food. Common animal-related injuries in Louisiana
lcmh.com 19 Ticks In Louisiana, ticks can transmit diseases like Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia. Tick bites themselves may go unnoticed, but the diseases they transmit can have serious health effects. Ticks can be transmitted through animals and humans. Many people get ticks from walking in the woods, but you can get a tick from your own yard. To remove a tick, grasp it from the skin’s surface with clean tweezers or a tick-removal device. Use steady, even pressure to pull the tick up and out of the skin. Use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to clean the bite area. Do not crush a live tick. Put the tick in alcohol or flush it down the toilet. Seek medical treatment if you: • Cannot remove the tick • Live in an area known to have many cases of Lyme disease • Have not had a tetanus shot in 10 years • Get a rash or fever within 2 to 14 days after the bite, of if you see swelling or redness that spreads • Feel weak or experience face, eye, or mouth drooping Spiders Louisiana is home to the brown recluse, whose bites can cause necrosis (tissue death) at the site of the bite. Black widow venom can lead to muscle pain and cramping. Oftentimes, people will mistake spider bites as bites from other insects. A doctor can diagnose a spider bite, so if you suspect you have been bitten by a spider, you should seek medical attention. If you know you’ve been bitten by a spider, it is important to identify the spiders or take a photo to get correct treatment. Safety tips: • Clean spider wounds with soap, water and antibiotic ointment. • Observe the bite for signs of worsening infections. • If you have been bitten by a black widow, seek emergency medical treatment immediately. Doctors will need to prescribe antivenom for treatment of these bites. • Wear gloves when working in areas prone to spiders
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