A Measured Approach to Alcohol: Dr. Quo on Health and Awareness

Dr. Justin Quo, MD at CHI LakeWood Health – April is Alcohol Awareness Month, an opportune time to reflect on our relationship with alcohol. While ingrained in many social traditions, the health implications of drinking are often misunderstood. Dr. Justin Quo, MD at CHI LakeWood Health, offers his expert insights into healthy alcohol consumption and its broader impact.

Limiting Consumption: A Core Guideline

“My primary recommendation is to limit alcohol consumption as much as possible,” states Dr. Quo. “However, for those who choose to drink, best practice would be no more than two drinks daily for men and no more than one drink daily for women.” He clarifies that one drink equates to one ounce of hard alcohol or one bottle/can of beer. This guideline emphasizes moderation, leaning towards minimizing intake.

Beyond the Liver: The Whole-Body Impact

A common misconception Dr. Quo encounters in his practice is the sole focus on liver damage. “Patients often don’t realize that alcohol affects the entire body,” he explains. “Beyond the liver, it significantly impacts the heart, immune system, nervous system, and digestive system.” This broader understanding is crucial for patients to grasp the far-reaching consequences of alcohol use.

Hidden Risks of Even Moderate Drinking

Even moderate alcohol consumption carries long-term health risks that many people are unaware of. Dr. Quo highlights several serious concerns: “Alcohol can cause malnutrition in many individuals, increases cancer risks, and can lead to memory loss and even dementia.” These often-overlooked effects underscore the importance of mindful drinking.

Medication Interactions: A Dangerous Blind Spot

The interaction between alcohol and common medications is another critical area of concern. “Alcohol can significantly increase the side effects and concentrations of many medications,” Dr. Quo warns. This includes sedatives, antidepressants, pain killers, and antibiotics, potentially leading to dangerous or ineffective treatment.

Recognizing the Signs of a Developing Problem

Identifying when social drinking crosses into problematic territory is vital. Dr. Quo lists common signs to watch for: “These include drinking more than planned, spending more time drinking (even socially), continuing to drink despite negative consequences affecting both family and work, needing more alcohol to settle your nerves or shakiness, or feeling the need to drink more to achieve the same effect as before. Giving up routine activities affecting work or social life to drink or drink with others is also a significant indicator.”

Proactive Health Screenings

For individuals who drink alcohol regularly, Dr. Quo recommends a proactive approach to health. “Patients should maintain regular annual screenings,” he advises. “More frequent testing or evaluation, such as blood work, may be necessary if they feel they are experiencing the effects of alcohol-related issues.”

Community Resources for Support

For those looking to reduce or cease their alcohol consumption, the community offers valuable resources. “Programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous are available,” says Dr. Quo. “Scheduling a clinic appointment for discussion of assistance, both social and medication management, is also an option. Furthermore, community members can utilize helplines such as 1-800-662-HELP (4357).”

Alcohol’s Impact on Mental Well-being

Beyond physical health, alcohol significantly impacts mental health. “Alcohol can cause an imbalance of the brain’s neurotransmitters and damage the brain,” Dr. Quo explains. “This can lead to depression, acute psychosis in some individuals, and severe anxiety in others.”

The Benefits of a ‘Dry’ January (or Any Break)

The popular “Dry January” movement sparks discussions about temporary abstinence. Dr. Quo is a proponent of such breaks. “I recommend limiting your alcohol consumption for better health,” he states. “It doesn’t mean absolutely no alcohol, but preferably less than one to two drinks daily.” These periods allow the body to recover and can help individuals reassess their relationship with alcohol.

Alcohol Awareness: A Personal Decision with Broad Implications

As Alcohol Awareness Month concludes, Dr. Quo offers a final thought for our community: “Like many things in life, alcohol use is a personal decision. Please be aware of the effects on your work, health, family, and friends.” His message emphasizes personal responsibility, informed choices, and the profound ripple effect of alcohol consumption on every aspect of an individual’s life.

By understanding these guidelines and potential risks, our community can make more informed decisions about alcohol, fostering healthier lives and stronger well-being. 

Heart Health Month: Protecting Young Hearts from Hidden Dangers 

By Dr. Quo 

As we observe Heart Health Month this February, it’s a crucial time to spotlight a growing concern for our youngest generations: the increasing incidents of heart issues among children and adolescents. While the image of heart disease often conjures thoughts of older adults, modern lifestyles and certain trends are shifting this reality. 

One significant area of concern, particularly for our youth, is the widespread consumption of energy drinks. The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly advises against these beverages for children and adolescents due to the dangerously high levels of caffeine they contain. For teens aged 12-18, the recommended daily caffeine limit is a mere 100mg. Startlingly, many popular energy drinks pack upwards of 200mg in a single can, far exceeding this safe threshold. 

Regular consumption of these highly caffeinated concoctions can lead to a host of detrimental health effects, especially on a developing cardiovascular system. These include: 

• Increased abnormal heart rhythm: Disrupting the heart’s natural beat.
• Increased blood pressure: Putting strain on arteries. 
• Increased heart rate: Making the heart work harder than it should.
• Dehydration: Impacting overall bodily function and increased heart strain.
• Tooth decay: A side effect often overlooked. 
• Dependence on stimulants: Leading to a cycle of reliance. 
• Withdrawal headaches: A painful consequence of discontinuing use. 

In essence, there is no “recommended” energy drink. Any consumption should ideally remain below the 100mg daily caffeine limit, spread across an entire day, rather than in one concentrated dose. 

While the exact links are still being investigated, there’s a troubling trend of increasing heart failure percentages in younger populations compared to the past. Experts suspect factors such as energy drink consumption, the long-term effects of COVID-19, and increasingly sedentary lifestyles may play a role. 

What can we do to safeguard young hearts? 

Proactive measures are key: 

1. Regular Heart Checks: Children and adolescents should undergo yearly heart checks, or immediately if any symptoms arise. Watch out for red flags like chest pain, back pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, or skipped beats.
2. Know Your History: Understanding family medical history is vital. Discuss this with your Primary Care Physician (PCP) for appropriate annual screening or more frequent checks if needed. 
3. Annual Wellness Screens: Regular annual check-ups with your PCP are essential for monitoring overall health, detecting potential issues early, and specifically for routine heart health screening and counseling. 
4. Regular Exercise and a Balanced Diet: Emphasize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats while limiting added sodium, sugars, and unhealthy trans/saturated fats. 

Schedule your child’s annual Well Child Check today with one of our family practice providers by calling 218.634.1655.

Baudette, MN – CHI LakeWood Health is pleased to announce significant improvements to LakeWood Care Center, made possible through funding received from the State of Minnesota’s one-time payment program for nursing home facilities. These upgrades are designed to enhance patient care and provide a more comfortable and therapeutic environment for residents.

The funding has allowed LakeWood Care Center to address several key areas, resulting in a more modern and welcoming atmosphere. Resident rooms have been revitalized with new flooring, fresh paint, and updated cabinetry, creating a more homelike setting.

“We are committed to providing the highest quality care for our residents,” said Jeffry Stampohar, President of CHI LakeWood Health. “This funding has been instrumental in allowing us to make these much-needed improvements, directly benefiting the well-being and comfort of those we serve.”

In addition to room renovations, LakeWood Care Center has invested in new beds to improve resident comfort and new dining room chairs to create a more pleasant dining experience. The therapy department has also seen significant upgrades, including updated therapy equipment and a renovated therapy space for the Care Center rehab room.

These upgrades are part of LakeWood Care Center’s ongoing commitment to providing exceptional care and a comfortable, supportive environment for its residents. The facility offers a range of amenities and services, including daily activities and outings catered to residents’ interests, unique dining options with an open breakfast, customized diet plans, access to a dietitian, family-style dinners and parties, a newly renovated common space, access to healthcare services all under one roof (rural health clinic, hospital, behavioral health, laboratory, radiology, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy), weekly church services, and an on-site chapel.

“We strive to create an at-home style living environment where our family takes care of yours,” added Roxanne Larson, Director of Nursing. “We welcome families to enjoy meals with their loved ones anytime, or host a celebration right here in the comfort of their home.”

We are accepting admissions and referrals. For admissions or referral questions, contact our Licensed Social Worker, Chris Pieper at 218-634-3450.

Recent outbreaks of measles across the United States serve as a stark reminder of the importance of vaccination and community awareness. Between January 1 and April 17, 2025, the U.S. recorded 800 confirmed measles cases, the second highest annual total in 25 years. Sadly, 85 individuals (11%) were hospitalized, and three people have died. With North Dakota now confirming its 12th case, it’s crucial to understand the risks and how to protect ourselves and our neighbors.

What is Measles?

Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus. It’s especially dangerous for babies and young children.

How Does Measles Spread?

• Through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
• The virus can linger in the air for up to 2 hours after an infected person leaves a space.
• If you’re not vaccinated, there’s a 90% chance you’ll get measles if you’re near someone who has it.

Symptoms to Watch For (appearing 7-14 days after exposure):

• High fever (potentially over 104°F)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red and/or watery eyes
• Rash (appearing 3-5 days after initial symptoms)

Serious Complications:

Measles can lead to severe health problems, including:

• Pneumonia
• Swelling of the brain (encephalitis)
• Death

What to Do If You Suspect Measles:

1. Isolate: Keep the person with symptoms away from others, especially those unvaccinated. Everyone in the house should stay home.
2. Contact a Doctor: Call your doctor or hospital immediately to inform them of the suspected case. Follow their instructions.
3. Emergency Room: Seek immediate emergency care if the person experiences:
   • Trouble breathing (or rapid breathing)
   • Pain when breathing or coughing
   • Dehydration (dry nose and mouth, reduced urination, lack of tears)
   • Persistent fever or headache ○ Confusion, decreased alertness, or severe weakness
   • Blue discoloration around the mouth, low energy, or feeding difficulties (in young children)
4. Call Ahead: If going to the emergency room, call ahead to alert them of a potential measles case.

Prevention is Key: Get Vaccinated!

The MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles and its complications. Anyone who is not vaccinated is at risk of measles infection and severe complications.

We strongly encourage you to:

• Contact your healthcare provider: Reach out to your doctor, clinic, or local pharmacy to check your vaccination records and confirm you are up-to-date on your MMR vaccine.
• Schedule an appointment: If you are not vaccinated or unsure of your vaccination status, schedule an appointment to receive the MMR vaccine.
• Share this information: Talk to your family, friends, and neighbors about the importance of measles vaccination

Additional Resources:

• CDC Measles Information: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/index.html
• Vaccination Information: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/hcp/vaccine-considerations/index.html

For questions or support, contact:

Jennifer Burchell, RN Infection Prevention 218-634-3430 or Kay Schell, Public Health Supervisor at 218-634-3434.

Let’s work together to keep our community safe and healthy. Stay informed, encourage vaccination, and protect our families and neighbors.

Baudette, MN – CHI LakeWood Health is pleased to announce the appointment of Jill Hasbargen, MS, LMFT, as the new Program Therapist for its Senior Life Solutions program. Jill brings a wealth of experience and a passion for serving the senior population to this vital role. 

Senior Life Solutions at CHI LakeWood Health is an intensive outpatient group therapy program designed to address the unique mental health needs of individuals aged 65 and older. The program provides support for those experiencing depression, anxiety, or other emotional challenges related to life transitions often associated with aging. 

As Program Therapist, Jill will be responsible for delivering comprehensive therapeutic services to patients through group, individual, and family therapy sessions. Her focus will be on providing high-quality, patient-centered care in accordance with physician-ordered services. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Jill to the Senior Life Solutions team,” said Diana Stampohar, Senior Life Solutions Program Director. “Her expertise and dedication to the well-being of seniors will be invaluable in helping us provide compassionate and effective care to our community.” 

Jill holds a Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Capella University and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of Minnesota. She also holds a Minnesota K-6 Elementary Educator license. Her extensive training includes residencies in both online settings (due to COVID restrictions) and in Jacksonville, Florida, as well as a year-long internship with Stellher Human Services in Bemidji, MN. Jill earned her undergraduate degree from Bemidji State University. 

Prior to joining CHI LakeWood Healths Senior Life Solutions, Jill served as the primary outpatient therapist for Stellher Human Services in Baudette, where she established the office in 2022. She also provided outpatient therapy services to clients in Bemidji and online throughout Minnesota. Additionally, Jill has experience facilitating Cognitive

Behavioral Therapy groups for various Northern counties in partnership with the court system through The Legacy Group. 

“I am excited to join Senior Life Solutions and have the opportunity to work with older adults,” said Jill Hasbargen. “I feel a strong connection with this population and am looking forward to making a positive impact on their lives. I’m also happy to have a shorter commute!” 

Referrals to the Senior Life Solutions program can be made by physicians, family members, the patient themselves, or other healthcare professionals. 

For more information about CHI LakeWood Health’s Senior Life Solutions program, please call 218-634-5372. 

About CHI LakeWood Health 

CHI LakeWood Health has been an integral part of the Baudette community since 1950. The campus includes a 15-bed acute-care Critical Access Hospital, a Skilled Nursing Facility, and a family-practice Rural Health Clinic. LakeWood offers a variety of medical services, including Public Health, Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapies, Behavioral Health, Telemedicine, Visiting Nurse and Ambulance Services. 

CHI LakeWood Health is part of CommonSpirit Health, one of the largest nonprofit health systems in the United States dedicated to advancing health for all people. It was created in February 2019 through the alignment of Catholic Health Initiatives (CHI) and Dignity Health. CommonSpirit Health is committed to creating healthy communities, delivering exceptional patient care, and ensuring every person has access to quality health care. CommonSpirit Health operates 142 hospitals and more than 1,000 care sites across 21 states. 

ABOUT SENIOR LIFE SOLUTIONS 

Founded in 2003, Senior Life Solutions is managed by Psychiatric Medical Care (PMC), a leading behavioral healthcare management company. PMC manages inpatient behavioral health units, intensive outpatient programs, and telehealth services in more than 35 states. For more information, visit www.psychmc.com.

Baudette, MN – CHI LakeWood Health is bolstering its commitment to providing exceptional emergency medical care to the Lake of the Woods community and surrounding areas with a significant investment in new, life-saving equipment. Thanks to a recent allocation of $294,000 in state emergency ambulance service aid, the team at CHI LakeWood Health has strategically acquired vital tools to enhance its EMS capabilities. 

“Our priority is always the well-being of our community,” said Jeff Stampohar, President of CHI LakeWood Health. “This funding allows us to equip our team with the best possible resources to respond effectively and efficiently to emergencies, ultimately improving patient outcomes.” 

After careful assessment of the service’s needs, CHI LakeWood Health has invested in the following critical equipment: 

● A New Ambulance: This modern ambulance replaces an aging vehicle, ensuring reliable and safe transport of patients to the hospital. The new ambulance is equipped with the latest technology to support patient care during transport. 

● A LUCAS device: This automated chest compression system provides consistent, high-quality chest compressions during cardiac arrest. The LUCAS device is a mechanical CPR device that delivers uninterrupted chest 

compressions, freeing up emergency medical personnel to focus on other critical interventions and improving the chances of survival for patients experiencing cardiac arrest. 

● Two Defibrillators: Defibrillators are life-saving devices that deliver an electrical shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. These new defibrillators provide the team with the most up-to-date technology to effectively treat patients experiencing life-threatening arrhythmias.

The investment in this new equipment reflects CHI LakeWood Health’s ongoing dedication to providing the highest quality emergency medical care to the community. By equipping its team with the latest technology and resources, CHI LakeWood Health is ensuring that residents have access to the best possible care during critical moments. 

“We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to enhance our EMS services,” Jeffry Stampohar, President of CHI LakeWood Health concluded. “This investment underscores our commitment to the health and well-being of the Lake of the Woods community, and we are proud to continue serving as a trusted provider of emergency medical care.” 

In related news, CHI LakeWood Health received its part-time Advanced Life Support (ALS) license for its EMS service line last fall. ALS refers to a higher level of emergency medical care provided by paramedics, involving advanced procedures such as administering medications and advanced airway management. To further support this service, CHI LakeWood Health recently welcomed a new part-time paramedic to the team, bringing them one step closer to fully realizing their ALS capabilities. 

About CHI LakeWood Health 

CHI LakeWood Health has been an integral part of the Baudette community since 1950. The campus includes a 15-bed acute-care Critical Access Hospital, a Skilled Nursing Facility, and a family-practice Rural Health Clinic. LakeWood offers a variety of medical services, including Public Health, Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapies, Behavioral Health, Telemedicine, Visiting Nurse and Ambulance Services. 

CHI LakeWood Health is part of CommonSpirit Health, one of the largest nonprofit health systems in the United States dedicated to advancing health for all people. It was created in February 2019 through the alignment of Catholic Health Initiatives (CHI) and Dignity Health. CommonSpirit Health is committed to creating healthy communities, delivering exceptional patient care, and ensuring every person has access to quality health care. CommonSpirit Health operates 142 hospitals and more than 1,000 care sites across 21 states. In FY 2023, CommonSpirit Health provided $2.9 billion in community benefit. 

**Contact:** 

Carrie Davidson, Marketing and PR Manager 

218.634.3454 

carrie.davidson@commonspirit.org

CHI LakeWood Health is thrilled to announce the addition of Morgan Longtin, FNP-C, to its LakeWood Clinic team. A dedicated family practice provider with a deep commitment to rural healthcare, Longtin brings a wealth of experience and a patient-centered approach to her practice. She is now accepting new patients and appointments can be scheduled by calling 218-634-1655. 

Longtin, a Cavalier, North Dakota native, understands the unique healthcare needs of rural communities. Raised on a farm, she brings a down-to-earth sensibility and a strong work ethic to her role as a provider. Her commitment to personalized care ensures that each patient’s individual needs and preferences are at the forefront of every treatment plan. “My goal is to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of every patient I serve,” says Longtin. “I believe in building strong relationships with my patients and providing them with the best possible care in a comfortable and understanding environment.” 

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family on their farm, engaging in outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and hiking, and pursuing her passion for carpentry and home remodeling projects. 

Longtin’s qualifications include 

● Education: BSN from North Dakota State University (NDSU), FNP-MSN from Post University 

● Board Certifications: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Basic Life Support (BLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) 

● Professional Memberships: American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), National Doctor of Nursing Practice Association (NDNPA), Minnesota Nurses Association (MNA)

CHI LakeWood Health is committed to providing comprehensive primary care services to the community. With the addition of Morgan Longtin, the clinic further strengthens its ability to meet the diverse healthcare needs of its patients. To schedule an appointment with Morgan Longtin or another provider at LakeWood Clinic, please call 218-634-1655. 

About CHI LakeWood Health 

CHI LakeWood Health has been an integral part of the Baudette community since 1950. The campus includes a 15-bed acute-care Critical Access Hospital, a Skilled Nursing Facility, and a family-practice Rural Health Clinic. LakeWood offers a variety of medical services, including Public Health, Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapies, Behavioral Health, Telemedicine, Visiting Nurse and Ambulance Services. 

CHI LakeWood Health is part of CommonSpirit Health, one of the largest nonprofit health systems in the United States dedicated to advancing health for all people. It was created in February 2019 through the alignment of Catholic Health Initiatives (CHI) and Dignity Health. CommonSpirit Health is committed to creating healthy communities, delivering exceptional patient care, and ensuring every person has access to quality health care. CommonSpirit Health operates 142 hospitals and more than 1,000 care sites across 21 states. In FY 2023, CommonSpirit Health provided $2.9 billion in community benefit. 

CHI Lakewood Health is pleased to announce the implementation of a new generation of IV pumps, significantly enhancing patient safety and reflecting the organization’s unwavering commitment to providing the highest quality care. These state-of-the-art pumps incorporate advanced technology designed to minimize medication errors and improve the overall patient experience. The new system features enhanced safety parameters and real-time alerts, providing clinicians with immediate notification of potential issues, such as incorrect infusion rates or potential drug interactions. This proactive approach to patient safety is a cornerstone of CHI Lakewood Health’s commitment to excellence. 

The new pumps are standardized across all CHI sister hospitals, ensuring seamless maintenance and repair services. This standardization also facilitates efficient training and consistent protocols across the system. Furthermore, a newly integrated respiratory monitoring module provides an additional layer of safety for patients receiving specific medications, allowing for closer observation and more timely intervention if needed. 

“This implementation underscores our dedication to providing the safest and most effective care possible,” said Carrie Claybundy, VP of Patient Care Services at CHI Lakewood Health. “By investing in new technology like these IV pumps, we are reinforcing our commitment to patient safety and continuously improving the quality of care we deliver.” Implementations such as this one highlight CHI Lakewood Health’s ongoing efforts to improve patient outcomes and provide a superior healthcare experience. 

About CHI LakeWood Health 

CHI LakeWood Health has been an integral part of the Baudette community since 1950. The campus includes a 15-bed acute-care Critical Access Hospital, a Skilled Nursing Facility, and a family-practice Rural Health Clinic. LakeWood offers a variety of medical

services, including Public Health, Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapies, Behavioral Health, Telemedicine, Visiting Nurse and Ambulance Services. 

CHI LakeWood Health is part of CommonSpirit Health, one of the largest nonprofit health systems in the United States dedicated to advancing health for all people. It was created in February 2019 through the alignment of Catholic Health Initiatives (CHI) and Dignity Health. CommonSpirit Health is committed to creating healthy communities, delivering exceptional patient care, and ensuring every person has access to quality health care. CommonSpirit Health operates 142 hospitals and more than 1,000 care sites across 21 states. In FY 2023, CommonSpirit Health provided $2.9 billion in community benefit. 

The Lakewood Regional Healthcare Foundation recently donated $10,000 to the Baudette Community Foundation’s 2024 Capital Campaign. This campaign aims to revitalize the Grand Theater, a vital community hub, with much-needed renovations. Upgrades include replacing over 20-year-old, broken auditorium seating; converting to energy-efficient LED lighting throughout the building, including aisle “runway” lights; installing new LED-lighted poster display frames; and replenishing the theater’s depleted “rainy day fund.” 

The Grand Theater plays a significant role in the Baudette community, providing a safe and enjoyable entertainment venue for families, teens, and seniors. Its creation stemmed from a community need, addressing the lack of local movie theaters and the resulting safety concerns associated with long-distance travel for entertainment. The theater offers a healthy escape, fostering mental well-being and providing a social gathering space for residents of all ages, including special screenings for CHI Lakewood Care Center residents. The Lakewood Regional Healthcare Foundation is proud to support this community asset. 

About LakeWood Regional Healthcare Foundation 

Established in 1997, the Foundation’s most ambitious fundraising effort raised $500,000 for the design and development of the new hospital and care center facility attached to the original healthcare facility. Today, the Foundation continues its mission to be “Your partner in building healthier communities where we live, work and play”. The Foundation is a subsidiary of CHI LakeWood Health. If you’d like to help the Foundation continue to make an impact in our community, consider donating today at https://chilakewoodhealth.com/lakewood-foundation/. 

About CHI LakeWood Health 

CHI LakeWood Health has been an integral part of the Baudette community since 1950. The campus includes a 15-bed acute-care Critical Access Hospital, a Skilled Nursing Facility, and a family-practice Rural Health Clinic. LakeWood offers a variety of medical services, including Public Health, Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapies, Behavioral Health, Telemedicine, Visiting Nurse and Ambulance Services. 

Contact: 

Carrie Davidson 

carrie.davidson@commonspirit.org