Newsworthy

Dear Community Partners,

Here are today’s updates:

• Stormont Vail Health’s Women Surgeons: International Women’s Day
• Current Status at Stormont Vail Health (English and Spanish)

Stormont Vail Health’s Women Surgeons: International Women’s Day

It’s International Women’s Day and we’re celebrating the achievements of women. We reached out to our amazing group of female surgeons to get their thoughts about their work and careers. Dr. Kelly Crabtree-Wilson, Dr. Kelly Stumpff, Dr. Amanda Loeffler, Dr. Heather Pena, Dr. Shaun Steeby and Dr. Jennifer Waterman represent different departments, but share the same goal: providing the best care to our patients.

In 2019, data reported that 22% of general surgeons were women, an increase from 20% in 2017. Dr. Loeffler said she is proud to be among that group of practicing female surgeons.

“Some patients may be more comfortable seeing a female surgeon and I am happy to provide that option for them,” said Dr. Loeffler of General Surgery. “And I am very grateful that my male counterparts find value in having a female partner.”

Prior to 1970, only 6% of medical students were female. Now, women make up 51.5% of the total enrollment at U.S. medical schools. Many believe this number is an encouraging sign that medical school is no longer influenced by gender expectations.

The group of women surgeons who represent Stormont Vail prove that connecting, empowering and supporting women is a pillar to success. Here’s advice they all have for girls and women who dream of becoming a doctor.

Dr. Heather Pena, Plastic and Reconstruction Surgery: “Do it! I think it is so important that we normalize the fact that woman can be doctors and be great at it. If you work hard and are dedicated, it’s absolutely a path you can excel in.”

Dr. Shaun Steeby, Orthopedics and Sports Medicine: “Don’t let other people tell you what you are and are not capable of doing, or what your priorities should be. Only you can determine those things. Also, don’t wait to start living your life thinking that everything will start when you finish your training. The road is long and life is what is happening around you right now. Make the most of it and have fun with it.”

Dr. Amanda Loeffler, General Surgery: “If there are any young ladies out there hoping to have a career in medicine and/or surgery, there is no better time than now to join the field.”

Dr. Jennifer Waterman, Orthopedics and Sports Medicine: “My advice to any child, male or female, is to follow your dream and pursue what makes you happy even if sometimes that means a lot of hard work and struggles. To steal a quote from one of my favorite female leaders, Robin Arzon, “interesting people don’t lead easy lives.” Find allies with other women in your desired specialty to help you best navigate the journey and the obstacles, stand up for yourself and stay true to yourself don’t let anyone quiet your voice.” From all of us at Stormont Vail, thank you for leading the way on this International Women’s Day!

Current Status at Stormont Vail Health

• 14 inpatients are COVID-19 positive.
• 82% of recent COVID-19 admissions are unvaccinated or had last dose/booster more than 6 months ago.
• COVID-19 inpatient discharges (previous day): 6. Deaths: 1.
• 4 COVID-19 positive patients in the outpatient Enhanced Primary Care program.
• 5.2% of people tested for COVID-19 at Stormont Vail facilities the past seven days were positive.
• 5 team members and 1 providers on contact leave for COVID-19.
• 101,908 vaccinations (included boosters) administered.
• To schedule a COVID-19 vaccine appointment:
  • Use online scheduling assistant at stormontvail.org/covid19/vaccine
  • Call (785) 270-4786.
• Go to Vaccines.gov: English or Spanish.

We together,

Dr. Kenagy