WINTER 2025 COMPASSIONATE. PERSONALIZED. HEALTHCARE. Our primary care team is growing! 2 ways to get involved at CPH p4 p7
2 Central Peninsula Hospital Shaun Keef, CEO Central Peninsula Hospital A MESSAGE FROM THE CEO Photo by Heather Hays Tribute to a legend Alex Russell, MD, a beloved pediatrician at Central Peninsula Hospital, is retiring in January after a remarkable career spanning nearly five decades of dedicated service to the children of Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula. His retirement marks the end of an era in health care for the region—an era that stretches back to the 1970s. Dr. Russell’s journey in medicine began with his medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia in 1964. After serving three years in the U.S. Navy, he completed his pediatrics residency at Emory University in Atlanta. In 1969, he moved to Anchorage to practice family medicine, briefly returning to Atlanta in 1970 for additional pediatrics training. The year 1976 marked a significant turning point in Dr. Russell’s career, as it is when he moved to Soldotna. Since then, he has been an integral part of the community, providing exceptional pediatric care to generations of families on the Kenai Peninsula. Leaving a legacy of compassionate care Throughout his career, Dr. Russell has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of children. His expertise, compassion and dedication have earned him the respect and admiration of patients, colleagues and the community at large. Beyond his medical practice, Dr. Russell is an accomplished pilot and flight instructor. His passion for aviation has led him to serve on the Missionary Aviation Board for four decades. Recently, he received the prestigious FAA Wright Brothers Award for 50 years of safe flying, a testament to his skill and commitment to safety. Dr. Russell’s contributions to health care in Alaska have not gone unnoticed. He was honored with the Paton Award from the Alaska Hospital and Healthcare Association, recognizing over 40 years of dedicated medical service to Alaskans. As Dr. Russell retires, he leaves behind a legacy of compassionate care and community service. His impact on the health of countless children and families in the Central Peninsula area is immeasurable. The community’s recognition of Dr. Russell as the 2024 outstanding individual in health care is a fitting tribute to his lifelong dedication to pediatric medicine. Central Peninsula Hospital extends its heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Russell for his years of dedicated service to the communities within the service area, and we wish him a welldeserved and joyful retirement.
PULSE Winter 2025 3 Welcome, Dr. Pearce! Learn all about our newest orthopaedic surgeon Central Peninsula Bone & Joint Center is thrilled to welcome Jordan Pearce, MD, to our team. Dr. Pearce joined us in September 2024, bringing advanced expertise in orthopaedic surgery with a focus on hand and upper extremity care. His addition strengthens our ability to address many complex conditions involving the hands, wrists, elbows and arms—vital areas that affect daily activities and quality of life for so many. Dr. Pearce is well-prepared to serve our community and has a background rooted in top-tier training. After earning his medical degree from Wake Forest School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Dr. Pearce completed his orthopaedic surgery residency at Spectrum Health/Michigan State University in Grand Rapids. He then pursued specialized fellowship training in hand and upper extremity surgery at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, where he developed a high skill level in treating routine and complex upper limb conditions. Orthopaedic specialists like Dr. Pearce play a critical role in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the upper extremities. Common conditions he treats include: ● Arthritis in the hands and elbows. ● Fractures and breaks, particularly common in the wrist and forearm. ● Ligament and tendon injuries, including “skier’s thumb” and tendon tears in the wrist. ● Nerve entrapment syndromes, like carpal and cubital tunnel syndrome. ● Pediatric injuries and congenital conditions affecting children’s hands. Excited to return home Returning to his home state of Alaska has special meaning for Dr. Pearce, who grew up in Anchorage and is excited to bring his skills to the Kenai Peninsula. He looks forward to immersing himself in the local community along with his wife, son and daughter. Dr. Pearce is a licensed pilot and enjoys all that Alaska has to offer, from hunting and fishing to the camaraderie of youth hockey, where he enjoys helping coach young players. Dr. Pearce’s patients benefit from his compassionate approach and dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes. Whether through surgical expertise or nonsurgical interventions, he’s committed to helping patients restore their quality of life. We are pleased to welcome Dr. Pearce to Central Peninsula Bone & Joint Center and look forward to his positive impact on our patients and the greater Kenai Peninsula community. PULSE is published as a community service for the friends and patrons of Central Peninsula Hospital, 250 Hospital Place, Soldotna, AK 99669, phone 907-714-4404, website www.cpgh.org. CEO: Shaun Keef External Affairs Director: Bruce Richards Information in PULSE comes from a wide range of medical experts. Models may be used in photos and illustrations. If you have any concerns or questions about specific content that may affect your health, please contact your health care provider. If you wish to be removed from the mailing list, please call 907-714-4600 or email marketing@cpgh.org. 2025 © Coffey Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Central Peninsula Hospital and its clinics (collectively “CPH”) comply with applicable Federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Translation and other services are available to you, free of charge, by calling this number: 907-714-4404. Is pain bringing you down? Our orthopaedic specialists, like Dr. Pearce, may be able to help. Scan the QR code or visit www.cpgh.org/ortho to learn more about the Central Peninsula Bone & Joint Center. Or call 907-714-4120 to make an appointment if you have a referral from your provider. bone & joint center central peninsula
4 Central Peninsula Hospital James Bauman, DO, recently returned to his home state of Alaska to pursue his passion for family medicine. Originally from Anchorage, Dr. Bauman is fulfilling his dream of caring for patients in a small, Alaskan community. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of California, Los Angeles, and earned his medical degree from Touro University in Nevada, followed by residency training at Valley Hospital in Las Vegas. Dr. Bauman is now a board-certified family medicine physician. A dedicated fisherman, Dr. Bauman has spent summers in Alaska, fishing for his family and himself. Now settling down on the Kenai Peninsula, he looks forward to fully embracing the Alaskan lifestyle he loves. In addition to fishing, he enjoys hunting, gardening, hockey, biking and weightlifting, and he is a strong advocate for healthy eating and regular exercise. Dr. Bauman is passionate about helping patients make positive lifestyle changes and is grateful for the opportunity to support his community’s health and well-being. We’re growing! At Central Peninsula Hospital, our commitment to the health and wellness of our community is at the heart of everything we do. We are thrilled to announce the addition of several new providers at both our Kenai and Soldotna Family Practice & Pediatrics Clinics. Central Peninsula Family Practice & Pediatrics offers high-quality, person-centered care in two convenient locations, serving individuals of all ages—from newborns to seniors. Our team emphasizes preventive care, treats acute illnesses and supports patients in managing chronic conditions, all with a focus on delivering compassionate, full-spectrum care. With The Joint Commission accreditation, our clinics are nationally recognized for their commitment to high standards in patient care. We are excited to introduce our newest providers, who bring fresh expertise and dedication to supporting the health of families throughout the Kenai Peninsula. Central Peninsula Family Practice & Pediatrics–Kenai Our Kenai clinic has also welcomed Rachelle Blanc, DO, and Jefferson Wasson, DO, a husband-andwife team of family medicine physicians. Both bring extensive experience and a shared dedication to personcentered care for the Kenai community. Dr. Blanc, originally from southern Arizona, specializes in family medicine with a focus on women’s health and pediatrics. She earned her undergraduate degree in biological sciences at the University of Arizona and her medical degree from Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine in New York. She completed her residency at Kaiser Permanente in San Diego. Dr. Blanc is an avid outdoors enthusiast, enjoying activities such as kayaking, hiking with the family dog, ice fishing and berry picking. When not outdoors, she loves tending to her succulent garden and cooking, and she is always up for a competitive game of Scrabble. Dr. Wasson, a Seattle native, shares a deep connection with Alaska, where he spent summers at his family’s cabin in Eagle Village. He pursued his undergraduate studies in physiology at the University of Arizona and attended medical school at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine. Completing his residency at Kaiser Permanente in San Diego, he focused on geriatric care. Dr. Wasson has also volunteered to provide medical assistance in underserved communities across Africa, India and Jamaica. In his leisure time, he enjoys hiking, fishing, woodworking and traveling. Together, Dr. Blanc and Dr. Wasson are excited to serve families in the Kenai area, bringing their unique skills and shared passion for health care to our community.
PULSE Winter 2025 5 In Soldotna we have been joined by Ryan Saliga, MD, and Emily Saliga, MD, another husband-and-wife team. Both are passionate family medicine physicians dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care to patients of all ages in the Kenai Peninsula community. Dr. Ryan Saliga, originally from Massachusetts, completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and attended Creighton University School of Medicine in Omaha, where he met Emily. Both completed their residency training at Waco Family Medicine in Texas. With a focus on family medicine, Dr. Ryan Saliga loves supporting families in their journey to healthier lives through continuous, personalized care. He’s looking forward to exploring the area’s natural beauty through hiking and skiing. Dr. Emily Saliga, a Missouri native, graduated with a degree in biology from Truman State University and earned her medical degree from Creighton University. Her training emphasized global health, women’s health and community health initiatives, including “food as medicine” programs. Committed to caring for underserved populations, she has volunteered in communities across Africa, South and Central America, Asia, and locally. She is fluent in Spanish and certified by the Clinician Cultural and Linguistic Assessment. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, backpacking, fishing, gardening and painting. Drawn to Alaska’s rugged landscapes and outdoor lifestyle, Drs. Ryan and Emily Saliga are thrilled to settle on the Kenai Peninsula and bring their medical expertise to serve the local community. Central Peninsula Family Practice & Pediatrics– Soldotna Now accepting new patients! Both Kenai and Soldotna Family Practice & Pediatric Clinics are accepting new patients. Please call 907-714-4111 to schedule an appointment at either location. Same-day acute appointments are available. ● Central Peninsula Family Practice & Pediatrics– Soldotna 245 N. Binkley St., Suite 101, Soldotna ● Central Peninsula Family Practice & Pediatrics–Kenai 506 Lake St., Kenai
6 Central Peninsula Hospital Your generosity makes a difference Philanthropy often flows from a genuine desire to uplift others without expecting anything in return. Whether channeled through our churches, schools or local organizations, like the Central Peninsula Health Foundation (CPHF), this generosity reveals that by focusing on others’ needs, we also discover personal growth and fulfillment. Acts of kindness, whether financial donations or small gestures, not only heal and empower recipients but deeply enrich those who give. Identifying causes close to our hearts and committing ourselves selflessly to them brings unparalleled satisfaction and meaning to our lives. The CPHF serves as a vital support arm for Central Peninsula Hospital, advancing its mission through community-focused philanthropy and partnerships. Thanks to generous donations, the foundation has been able to create lasting benefits, including: ● Enhancing programs and activities at Heritage Place. ● Providing critical medications for patients in need. ● Offering transportation assistance for medical appointments. ● Upgrading the Cardiac/Pulmonary Rehab Gym with advanced equipment. ● Installing wheelchair-accessible garden beds at Heritage Place. ● Purchasing an infant simulator for obstetric training. ● Purchasing educational handbooks for breast cancer patients and their partners. ● Awarding scholarships to high school seniors pursuing medical careers. ● Adding breastfeeding pods for CPH employees and visitors. ● Supplying a utility trailer for Safe Kids of the Kenai Peninsula. Save the date for ‘An Evening By the River’ Dress up and mingle with the Central Peninsula’s finest at the annual Central Peninsula Health Foundation fundraiser, An Evening By the River. Join us on Feb. 28, 2025, at 6 p.m. in the River Tower on the Central Peninsula Hospital campus for a night of celebration and community impact. Tickets are $100 per person, with proceeds supporting essential equipment, community programs, and patient and family services across Central Peninsula Hospital, Heritage Place and Serenity House. Attendees will enjoy an array of gourmet hors d’oeuvres, an open bar and live music in a beautiful setting. Secure your spot today by purchasing tickets at www.givingheals.org. For questions, please reach out to Foundation Director Kathy Gensel at 907-714-4626. Don’t miss this memorable evening for a great cause! CPHF is committed solely to supporting CPH, Heritage Place, Serenity House and the individuals in our community who rely on these services. We invite you to join us in making a difference. Every contribution directly affects lives in our community. For more information or to donate, please contact Central Peninsula Health Foundation at 907-714-4626, scan the QR code or visit www.givingheals.org.
PULSE Winter 2025 7 Are you looking to embark on a fulfilling career in health care or seeking ways to give back to the community? Central Peninsula Hospital is excited to announce a variety of employment and apprenticeship opportunities. Whether you’re starting your career, looking to develop new skills or simply want to make a positive impact, there’s something here for everyone! Employment opportunities Our local hospital is more than just a place to receive care; it’s a hub for career growth and development. We are currently seeking dedicated individuals to join our team across various departments. From nursing and administrative roles to technical positions, like radiology and laboratory technicians, Central Peninsula Hospital offers a wide range of opportunities for professionals at all stages of their careers. Current openings include: ● Registered nurses. ● Medical assistants. ● Certified nursing assistants. How to apply Whether you’re interested in employment or an apprenticeship, applying is easy! Contact our Human Resources department at 907-714-4773 or visit our website at www.cpgh.org/careers for more information. Join us in making a difference in the lives of our patients and contributing to the well-being of our community. At Central Peninsula Hospital, we believe that every role matters and that together, we can continue providing the exceptional care our community deserves. CPH Careers Page Talent Network How you can get involved at CPH ● Administrative support staff. ● Housekeeping and facilities maintenance. ● Information services staff. ● Physical therapists. ● Various leadership roles. Our hospital prides itself on creating a supportive and inclusive work environment. We offer competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits and opportunities for continuing education to help you grow in your career. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting out, we invite you to explore the diverse roles that make a difference in patient care. Apprenticeship programs If you’re interested in gaining hands-on experience while learning a valuable trade in health care, our apprenticeship programs might be the perfect fit for you. Apprenticeships at Central Peninsula Hospital combine classroom learning with on-the-job training, allowing participants to earn while they learn. These programs are ideal for high school graduates, individuals considering a career change or anyone looking to gain practical experience in the medical field. Apprenticeship opportunities include: ● Certified nursing assistant. ● Medical assistant. ● Surgery technologist. ● Biomed technician. ● Sleep tech. ● Sterile processing tech. ● Polysomnography tech. Apprentices work alongside experienced professionals, gaining real-world skills in their chosen field while receiving mentorship and guidance. Upon completion of the program, many participants are offered full-time positions within the hospital. This is an excellent opportunity to jump-start your career in health care without incurring student debt or lengthy schooling.
Welcome our newest orthopaedic surgeon! Learn all about him on page 3. Standard U.S. Postage PAID Walla Walla, WA Permit No. 44 ‘Dine and Discuss’ returns! Central Peninsula Hospital is excited to bring back Dine & Discuss, a community education series designed to offer valuable health insights from local medical professionals in a relaxed, engaging setting. Attendees will enjoy a delicious dinner while learning from a featured Central Peninsula Hospital provider. Each session spotlights a different health topic and includes a Q&A session, providing ample opportunity to get answers from trusted experts. Upcoming topics will include heart health, diabetes management, joint pain and arthritis, sleep disorders, recognizing early signs of neurological conditions, mental health, and more. The 2025 series will kick off with Samuel Adams, MD, from Central Peninsula Kenai Spine, presenting “The Hidden Journey of Myelopathy: Understanding Spinal Cord Health for a Better Life.” Dr. Adams will delve into the crucial role of spinal cord health and its impact on overall well-being, offering insights that can empower attendees toward a healthier, more vibrant life. This unique community event is free to attend, with dinner available for purchase at $15. Space is limited, and preregistration is required. For more information and to reserve your spot, visit www.cpgh.org or scan the QR code. Join us for an enlightening evening of great food, lively conversation and meaningful health education! When: third Thursday of each month from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Where: the Denali Room at Central Peninsula Hospital. Register at www.cpgh.org/ discuss or scan the QR code.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy ODQ1MTY=