Learn about what’s new in local health care with Freeman Health System’s online newsletter, Freeman in a Flash. Read about new sleep apnea treatments, December’s health focus, the Joplin Christmas parade, and much more below.
Freeman Reaches a Major Milestone with MONARCH Robot-Assisted Bronchoscopy
A year and a half ago, Freeman announced the acquisition of MONARCH® – a transformative new robotic technology that helps our doctors find lung cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages. Now, Freeman pulmonologist Dr. Grant Piersonhas performed his 200th MONARCH procedure in less than two years.
Freeman is the first and only health system in Missouri, Southeast Kansas, and Northeast Oklahoma to invest in MONARCH platform by Auris. MONARCH gives our physicians advanced maneuverability to navigate a patient’s airways to detect and biopsy potentially cancerous nodules.
“Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide, in part because it has no symptoms in its early stages,” said Dr. Pierson. “Because the MONARCH platform provides improved reach, vision and control for bronchoscopic procedures, it holds potential to help us to make a diagnosis earlier. We are excited about the promise of this technology to offer a more hopeful future for our patients with lung cancer.”
Learn more about Dr. Pierson and MONARCH here. For more information about MONARCH, pulmonology services or to make an appointment, call 417.347.8315.
Freeman Offering New Mask-Less Sleep Apnea Treatment
Freeman Health System is now offering Inspire Therapy, an innovative method obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) treatment option for those who cannot use continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. Freeman is the first and only system within a 70-mile radius of Joplin to offer Inspire.
Inspire works inside the body with a patient’s natural breathing process to treat sleep apnea. Mild stimulation opens the airway during sleep, enabling oxygen to flow naturally.
The Inspire team at Freeman includes Dr. Grant Pierson (pulmonology specialist) and Dr. Jason Maxfield (sleep medicine specialist) referring patients to Dr. Kent McIntire (ear, nose and throat specialist).
“Freeman is fortunate to have three excellent physicians collaborating in a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach to treat poor sleep for the best therapy outcomes,” said Paula Baker, Freeman President and Chief Executive Officer. “Good sleep improves cognition, concentration, productivity and performance. It can also maximize problem-solving skills and enhance memory. If you’ve ever missed a few of hours sleep, you know it can make you feel like you’re running on empty. This is why Freeman invested in this breakthrough sleep therapy called Inspire.”
Learn more here.
Ask Your Questions About the Impact of Recreational Marijuana in the Workplace
In November, Missouri voters passed Amendment 3, expanding marijuana use beyond medicinal purposes and legalizing it for recreation for those 21 years of age and older. Sale of recreational marijuana could begin as early as February 2023, though it is important to recognize marijuana use remains federally illegal. This change presents new challenges as employers consider changes to drug testing policies.
Share your questions with Freeman OccuMed about how this change impacts your business. Stay tuned for details about an information seminar on workplace substance abuse in January 2023.
Ask your question here.
Save My Spot
Save your spot — because feeling better shouldn’t be a waiting game.
Patients can use the Save My Spot feature on the Freeman Health System website to select a convenient time to come in.
Freeman Urgent Care – Joplin
- 1130 East 32nd Street
- Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
- Saturday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Freeman Urgent Care – Webb City
- 1636 South Madison Street
- Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
- Saturday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Note: Using Save My Spot is not required to be seen in our facilities. Walk-ins are always welcome! Please check with your insurance carrier to verify coverage before your arrival. If you or someone you know is experiencing a life-threatening illness or injury, call 911 or proceed to the nearest emergency room.
National Health Observances
As you plan your Employee Wellness programs and communication, you can find resources at the Department of Health and Human Services Monthly Observances Calendar.
Each month focuses on approximately three to six topics. Here are two resources for December:
World AIDS Day
- December 1
- The National AIDS Trust recognizes World AIDS Day to raise awareness, show support for people living with HIV/AIDS, and united in the fight against the virus.
- Encourage others in your network to “Rock the Ribbon” and spread the word about HIV.
National Influenza Vaccination Week
- December 5 through 9
- The CDC provides excellent resources to help you communicate the importance of flu. Check them out here.
2022 Joplin Christmas Parade: Christmas in Candy Land
Tuesday, December 6 @ 6:00 pm | Main Street in Joplin from 15th to 2nd Street
Brought to you by Freeman Health System.
Freeman Health Systemis proud to continue our ongoing support and sponsorship of the Annual Joplin Christmas Parade. We consider this a gift to the community we are so blessed to have served for the past 97 years, and we are honored play a key role in bringing the parade to Joplin again this year.
If you would like to enter your organization or business in the Joplin Christmas Parade, be sure you get your entry form filled out as soon as possible to ensure your participation in this great community event.
Check out the parade details here.
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