Advanced cardiac care Pacemaker procedures available in Yankton Diabetes and thyroid specialist Endocrinology specialty added Healing beyond borders Medical team goes to Guatemala EXAMINER So Much Care, So Close to Home at Yankton Medical Clinic Fall/Winter 2025 Surgeon-led, specialty-trained orthopedic care Expansion of orthopedic team Yankton Medical Clinic pediatrician David Withrow, MD (in gray), shares memories of a recent medical mission trip that included retired Internal Medicine physician Dan Megard, MD (in blue).
2 yanktonmedicalclinic.com Models may be used in photos and illustrations. 2025 © Coffey Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. EXAMINER is published as a community service for the residents of the service area of Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C., 1104 West 8th St., Yankton, SD 57078 yanktonmedicalclinic.com | 605-665-7841 April Willman, MD, a pediatrician with Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C., was presented the 2025 Kindness Initiative Award from the USD Sanford School of Medicine (SSOM) Pediatrics Department. Dr. Willman, who serves as Associate Dean of SSOM Yankton Campus and a Clinical Associate Professor in the Pediatrics Department, was nominated by several medical students. The students say that Dr. Willman exemplifies the true meaning of the Kindness Initiative. According to USD SSOM’s website: “The Kindness Initiative integrates kindness into education, culture and strategy, recognizing it as a crucial element in healing and happiness. Integrated into the school’s program and culture in 2022, the initiative aims to embed kindness throughout the curriculum, emphasizing its importance for future health care professionals.” OUR MISSION To provide timely, compassionate, quality care to all who seek that care, with respect for and trust in those we serve. OUR VISION To be an independent regional center of medical excellence committed to quality care and medical education. Sara Pepper, MD; Dan Megard, MD; April Willman, MD; Amy Eichfeld, MD; and Byron Nielsen, MD, participated in the University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine hooding ceremony recently. A hooding ceremony is a part of the commencement or graduation process where a faculty member, mentor or family member places a doctoral hood over the graduate’s head, symbolizing the completion of their advanced degree. The ceremony signifies the graduate’s readiness to enter the medical profession with advanced skills and knowledge and formally recognizes their achievement. Physicians at YMC are committed to the education of medical students to help ensure that outstanding health care continues for generations to come. YMC physicians participate in hooding ceremony Dr. Willman recognized for kindness
Fall/Winter 2025 3 What is an endocrinologist? Endocrinologists diagnose and treat problems related to the endocrine system. Years of training Endocrinologists complete: ● Four years of medical school followed by three or four years of internship and residency. ● Two or three years of training to learn how to diagnose and treat hormone conditions. Areas of expertise Endocrinologists may be consulted on: ● Bone diseases. ● Infertility problems. ● Menopause. ● Metabolic disorders. ● Ovarian, breast, pancreatic or adrenal cancers. ● Thyroid conditions. Working together Your endocrinologist will collaborate with your primary care physician to handle your care. Enas Al Zaghal, MD, a boardcertified physician in endocrinology, diabetes, metabolism and obesity medicine, has joined Yankton Medical Clinic–Norfolk. In addition, Dr. Al Zaghal will be seeing patients in Yankton every Thursday. Dr. Al Zaghal has extensive experience in treating a wide range of conditions, including diabetes, thyroid disorders, adrenal gland issues and more. She delivers compassionate, personalized, evidence-based care tailored to the unique needs of each patient. Becky McManus, CEO of Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C., states: “Dr. Al Zaghal’s expertise, board certifications and dedication to patient-centered care align with our long-standing tradition of medical excellence. This addition allows patients to receive specialized physician care close to home, without the need to travel to larger cities.” Feel your best. Live healthier! Yankton Medical Clinic, a physicianowned, multispecialty practice, was founded nearly 80 years ago with the mission of delivering highquality, comprehensive health care Need endocrinology care? Appointments with Dr. Al Zaghal can be scheduled by calling Yankton Medical Clinic–Norfolk Specialty Clinic at 402-844-8110. Call 605-665-1722 for Yankton appointments. to the region. Today, the clinic includes 45 physicians across 19 specialties, continuing to grow and adapt to meet the evolving needs of the communities it serves. Enas Al Zaghal, MD
4 yanktonmedicalclinic.com CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE What’s your risk? Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 cause of death for U.S. adults. Many factors can raise your risk for cardiovascular disease. Some factors you can change include: ● Being obese or overweight. ● High blood pressure. ● High cholesterol. ● Diabetes. ● A diet high in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium. ● Tobacco use. ● Excessive alcohol use. ● Lack of physical activity. The good news: You can do a lot to lower your risk and improve your cardiovascular health. To start: ● Exercise regularly. ● Eat a healthy diet. ● If you smoke, plan to quit. ● Understand the risks of alcohol. ● Control your blood sugar. ● Maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Talk with your doctor about other ways you can lower your cardiovascular disease risk. Pacemaker procedures now available in Yankton Please help us welcome Venkata Pajjuru, MD, to our cardiology team! He joins 5-star patientrated cardiologist Tim Irwin, MD. The addition of Dr. Pajjuru helps us ensure continued access to high-quality, comprehensive cardiac care for patients across the region. Dr. Pajjuru has specialized expertise in pacemaker procedures, including implantations and battery replacements, as well as loop recorder implantations. He collaborates closely with primary care providers to deliver advanced cardiac services tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Both Dr. Irwin and Dr. Pajjuru are committed to providing personalized, patient-centered care. They emphasize education and active patient participation in the management of heart health, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their treatment. With the addition of Dr. Pajjuru, patients in the region no longer need to travel to larger cities for specialized cardiology care. Yankton Medical Clinic is dedicated to improving both the convenience and quality of care for its communities. Ready to make an appointment? Dr. Pajjuru is available to see patients in Yankton, Vermillion and Wagner, South Dakota. No referral is required to schedule an appointment with Dr. Pajjuru; simply call 605-664-2741. Patients wishing to schedule an appointment with Dr. Irwin should coordinate with their primary care provider. Venkata Pajjuru, MD Tim Irwin, MD Advanced cardiac care
Fall/Winter 2025 5 Meet our 2025 Nursing Excellence Award winner, Pam Welch! Congratulations to Yankton Medical Clinic’s 2025 Nursing Excellence Award winner, Pam Welch. Welch has been a valued member of Yankton Medical Clinic for 21 years. Throughout that time, she has exemplified what it means to be a dedicated, compassionate and skilled nurse. Welch’s commitment to her patients is unwavering, and she consistently demonstrates a depth of knowledge that makes her a trusted resource for both colleagues and patients alike. Welch’s willingness to support and guide fellow nurses speaks volumes about her leadership and team spirit. Joining in to celebrate Welch on this well-deserved recognition were Tara Mitchell, Director of Nursing; Dr. Michael Pietila, Pulmonology; Linda Reese, PA-C, Pulmonology; and Becky McManus, CEO. Humanism in medicine award given Yankton Medical Clinic’s Byron Nielsen, MD, Nephrologist, has been selected as the 2025 Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award from the Sanford School of Medicine at the University of South Dakota. This award is presented by the Arnold P. Gold Foundation, which has taken a leadership role in developing the concept of humanism in medicine—promoting integrity, excellence, compassion, altruism, respect, empathy and service in medical students and practicing physicians. Dr. Nielsen was selected with input from medical students and practicing physicians, and this honor is a testament to his character and ideals that mirror those of the Arnold P. Gold Foundation. Linda Reese, MPAS, PA-C, of Yankton Medical Clinic (YMC), has been honored as the 2025 South Dakota Quitline Referral Champion for referring the most patients to the South Dakota Quitline in 2024. This prestigious award recognizes providers for their exceptional commitment to helping patients quit tobacco and improve their health, making a positive impact on both individuals and communities. Reese was acknowledged for her proactive approach in assisting patients to take the first step toward a tobacco-free life. Her efforts are instrumental in reducing tobacco use in the region. As a member of YMC’s pulmonary team, Reese is recognized as one of the top resources in the area for smoking cessation and for her ability to see patients in a timely manner. Patients are encouraged to seek her expertise for personalized support in their journey to quit. Kaitlyn Ashley, with the South Dakota Tobacco Cessation & Quitline, presents Linda Reese, PA-C, pulmonology, Yankton Medical Clinic, with her 2025 Champion award. Need help quitting? To schedule an appointment with Linda Reese, call 605-665-1152. 2025 SOUTH DAKOTA QUITLINE REFERRAL CHAMPION Reese wins award Byron Nielsen, MD
6 yanktonmedicalclinic.com Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. 1104 W. 8th St., Yankton, SD 57078 Primary Care Specialty Care FAMILY MEDICINE AUDIOLOGY CARDIOLOGY EAR, NOSE AND THROAT NEPHROLOGY ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY McKenzie Hanson, MD* 605-665-8910 Elizabeth Nicholas, MD* 605-665-8910 Carrissa Pietz, MD* 605-665-8910 Abigail Reynolds, MD* 605-665-8910 Jordan Schild, MD* 605-665-8910 Scott Weber, DO, FAAFP+ 605-665-8910 Jennifer McGinnis, CNP 605-665-8910 Shay Thoene, FNP 605-665-1152 Beth Beeman, AuD, CCC-A, FAAA 605-665-0062 Jason R. Howe, MS, FAAA, CCC-A 605-665-0062 Tim Irwin, MD, FACC* 605-664-2741 DERMATOLOGY Scott Kindle, MD* 605-664-2741 David Abbott, MD* 605-665-0062 Byron S. Nielsen, MD* 605-665-1082 GERIATRICS Jennifer Fillaus, DO* 605-665-1082 Jeremy Kudera, MD, ABOS* 605-665-1722 Dawn Lauer, MPAS, PA-C 605-665-1722 RADIOLOGY Ben LaCrosse, MD* 402-379-2349 Will R. Eidsness, MD* 605-665-7841 UROLOGY Christopher Hathaway, MD, PhD* 605-664-2742 Brent Adams, MD, ABOS* General Orthopedics and Spine Specialist 605-665-1722 Tom Viereck, CNP 605-665-1722 Ben Lancaster, MD, ABOS* 605-665-1722 PHYSICAL MEDICINE Judith R. Peterson, MD* 605-665-1152 Becky Sawatzke, PA-C 605-665-1152 Leann Bassing, MD* 605-665-1722 RHEUMATOLOGY OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY Emma Bye, MD, FACOG* 605-665-5538 Amy M. Eichfeld, MD, FACOG* 605-665-5538 Jill F. Sternquist, MD, FACOG* 605-665-5538 PEDIATRICS Martha Holstein, MD, FACP, FAAP* 605-665-1152 Visit yanktonmedicalclinic.com/scheduling and follow the prompts. INTERNAL MEDICINE Venkata Pajjuru, MD, FACC* 605-664-2741 PULMONOLOGY Linda Reese, MPAS, PA-C 605-665-1152 Michael P. Pietila, MD, FCCP, FACP* Critical Care 605-665-1152 Liz Wortmann, CNP 605-664-2741 Self-schedule your appointment online! Sarah Arens, MPAS, PA-C 605-665-1152
Vermillion Medical Clinic INTERNAL MEDICINE Susan E. Fanta, MD* 605-665-1082 Jennifer Fillaus, DO* 605-665-1082 Tyler Hanson, MD* 605-665-1082 Martha Holstein, MD, FACP, FAAP* 605-665-1152 Amanda Sedlacek, DO, FACOI, MSA* 605-665-1722 Robert Nicholas, MD* 605-665-0062 Haley Schroeder, MPAS, PA-C 605-664-2742 Amy Fluit, MPAS, PA-C 605-624-8643 *Board-certified +Board-eligible GENERAL SURGERY Jesse L. Kampshoff, MD* 605-664-2742 Luke C. Serck, MD* General and Vascular Surgery Specialist 605-664-2742 Ryan J. Garry, MD, FACS* General and Breast Surgery Specialist 605-664-2742 PALLIATIVE MEDICINE Amanda Sedlacek, DO, FACOI, MSA* 605-665-1722 Dawn M. Larson, MD+ 605-665-5538 Sara Pepper, MD, FAAP* 605-665-5538 April K. Willman, MD, FAAP* 605-665-5538 101 S. Plum St., Vermillion, SD 57069 David W. Withrow, MD, FAAP+ 605-665-5538 Matthew D. Krell, MD, FAAP,* Pediatrics 605-624-8643 Michelle Chaussee, MPAS, PA-C 605-624-8643 Ashley Johnson, MPAS, PA-C 605-624-8643 Emily Nelson, CNP 605-624-8643 Here for you 7 days a week in Yankton With our regular clinic hours plus ConvenientCare open for walk-in appointments, you’ll get the care you need, when you need it: ● Monday–Friday, 5 to 8 p.m. ● Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. ● Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. Our pharmacy is open: ● Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. ● Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. ● Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. Call 605-665-2929 for your prescription refills. Pharmacy drive-thru service is available! Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C., Norfolk Alan Spanel, MD* Internal Medicine 402-316-4606 Kelly Jueden, CNP Family Medicine 402-316-4606 Erin Wolf, AuD, CCC-A, FAAA, Audiologist 402-844-8110 Charles Harper, MD* Internal Medicine 402-316-4606 Enas Al Zaghal, MD* Endocrinology 402-844-8110 Brian Kim, AuD, CCC-A, FAAA, Audiologist 402-844-8110 3901 W. Norfolk Ave., Norfolk, NE 68701 Ben LaCrosse, MD* Radiologist 402-379-2349 Fall/Winter 2025 7
8 yanktonmedicalclinic.com By David Withrow, MD, FAAP, pediatrician, Yankton Medical Clinic Earlier this year, I had the privilege of joining a medical mission to San Lucas Tolimán, Guatemala—a town of roughly 30,000 residents nestled on the stunning shores of Lake Atitlán, surrounded by mountains and volcanoes. Our team traveled through the University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine in partnership with Friends of San Lucas, a nonprofit dedicated to addressing the educational, economic and health care needs of the region through grassroots, community-driven service. Our group included 17 medical students, one undergraduate student and four physicians: Dan Megard, MD, a recently retired internist from Yankton Medical Clinic (YMC); Ashley Briggs, MD, an OB-GYN; Sherri Bostwick, MD, family medicine; and me, a pediatrician at YMC. We were the clinic, the pharmacy and the support team—all rolled into one. What we did each day Health care access in rural Guatemala is incredibly limited. Many residents may never see a physician in their lifetime, though the government has done an impressive job of vaccinating children through national programs. Our mission operated mobile clinics in five different communities over five days—ranging from small towns to remote jungle villages. Friends of San Lucas organized everything on the ground, from logistics to bringing patients to each site. Each morning, we arrived with only the basics: folding tables, plastic chairs and medical supplies. Gyms, schools and community centers became makeshift clinics. Some patients arrived hours early and waited patiently all day to be seen. Our team set up seven stations. One for registration and vitals, another as a pharmacy (expertly managed by Dr. Megard and the students), and five tables where pairs of medical students took patient histories and conducted basic physicals. Each student presented their findings to one of us attending physicians. We had no imaging, and lab testing was limited to urinalysis and finger sticks for glucose. As the pediatrician, I focused on children, while my colleagues cared for adults, expectant mothers and women’s health needs. Despite the limited resources, our team worked tirelessly—and joyfully. Between clinic days, we had opportunities to experience Guatemalan culture. We visited a local women’s center, where we learned to make traditional corn tortillas—an activity I’d love to replicate with my family. Some students hiked a volcano, and we all took a boat across Lake Atitlán to explore a local artisan village. Bittersweet memories One of the most memorable days was in a small, impoverished village accessible only by a gravel road. We were met with endless smiles and curious children. As we set up, dozens of kids swarmed the area—many not there for care, HEALING BEYOND BORDERS A pediatrician’s journey to Guatemala
Fall/Winter 2025 9 but simply to watch. I became something of a novelty—“the doctor with a stethoscope,” letting kids listen to their own heartbeats or look in my ears. We handed out toothbrushes, played soccer and shared laughter. Their lives are simple, but their joy was profound. One touching moment involved a young boy sitting alone in another clinic, wearing a Detroit Tigers cap. After he had watched us work for hours, I invited him to listen through my stethoscope. My two older children speak fluent Spanish, so I called one and let them chat with him on speakerphone. It was the first time he’d ever used a cellphone—and his face lit up in pure amazement. That smile still stays with me. But not all memories were easy. On our first clinic day, I saw two 2-year-old children who were unable to walk or speak—likely due to complications from early illness and lack of oxygen. Both likely suffered brain injuries but had no access to physical therapy, neurologists or early intervention. Another 5-year-old clearly had signs of autism spectrum disorder, yet no resources existed in the school system to support her. These were the hardest moments, knowing what should be done and being powerless to provide it. And yes, I had my own moment of “tourist medicine”—contracting both E. coli and an amoeba in the final days of the trip. With the help of medication from our team, I recovered quickly, though I returned home 13 pounds lighter (not the weight loss method I’d recommend!). God calls us to give our time, treasure and talents. This trip reminded me just how much we have—and how much we can give. The joy of service Looking back, I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve—not only the people of Guatemala but also the 17 incredible medical students who gave their time and energy to care for others. They paid for the trip themselves and came ready to learn, work and make a difference. I left Guatemala with a renewed sense of gratitude for our own community. Here in Yankton, we’re blessed with access to health care, support services in our schools and therapies that help children reach their full potential. This trip reminded me how lucky we are—and how important it is to share those blessings whenever and wherever we can. Need a pediatrician? David Withrow, MD, FAAP, is a pediatrician at Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Withrow, please call 605-665-5538 or visit yanktonmedicalclinic.com/scheduling. I left wishing I could’ve done more— but also deeply grateful for what I was able to give. —David Withrow, MD, FAAP
10 yanktonmedicalclinic.com To celebrate National Water Safety Month in May, Yankton Medical Clinic (YMC) teamed up with Yankton County Search and Rescue (YCSAR) and Yankton Emergency Management to provide 300 youth life jackets to local families, free of charge. Martha Holstein, MD, FACP, FAAP, internal medicine and pediatric physician at YMC, says: “The physicians at Yankton Medical Clinic care deeply about the health and safety of our community. We want to watch your families thrive and enjoy the beautiful waters around Yankton. There is an average of 10 fatal drownings per day and 22 nonfatal drownings per day nationwide. Drowning remains the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related death for children 5 to 15 years old. As local physicians, we understand the importance of teaching children water safety at an early age. We are pleased to help.” Dr. Holstein and her son; Tara Mitchell, Director of Nursing, and her daughters; and Kara Osborn, Director of Marketing, represented YMC at the event. In addition to picking up a life jacket, families also enjoyed a free supper of hot dogs and chips. Educational activities were provided by local law enforcement, Emergency Management personnel, YCSAR members, and National Game & Parks representatives. YMC helps host a children’s life jacket giveaway Yankton Medical Clinic distributed Water Watcher cards to adults attending the event to expand efforts to increase awareness about water safety.
Fall/Winter 2025 11 With the expansion of our orthopedic team, we’re proud to offer the most advanced physician-provided orthopedic care in the region, closer to home. New provider To better meet the growing needs of our community, we’re excited to welcome Ben Lancaster, MD, boardcertified orthopedic surgeon. He joins Brent Adams, MD, and Jeremy Kudera, MD—each exceptionally reviewed by patients for their compassionate, highly skilled care. High-tech equipment From robotic-assisted knee replacement and minimally invasive spine surgery to sports injuries and pediatric orthopedics, our orthopedists are specialty-trained to help you get back to living, moving and feeling better. No unnecessary referrals. No bouncing between buildings. Just direct access to the expertise your body deserves. See for yourself. Visit yanktonmedicalclinic.com/orthopedic to learn more about our services and how we can help. Understanding total joint replacement If you have a painful joint and nonsurgical treatments haven’t worked, your doctor may suggest joint replacement surgery. Most people who have a joint replaced are able to get back to an active lifestyle with less pain. Routine tasks, like walking and getting out of a chair, may be easier again. Techniques used to replace joints include: ● Traditional joint replacement. The joint is replaced through a long incision. ● Minimally invasive joint replacement. The joint is replaced through smaller incisions, and less tissue is cut. This may result in less pain after surgery and a quicker recovery. ● Robotic-assisted hip and knee replacement. During roboticassisted surgery, the surgeon creates a 3D model of the joint. Computer mapping helps ensure a precise fit. Tiny robotic instruments, directed by the surgeon, remove the damaged joint and replace it with the artificial joint while preserving the healthy tissue around the site. Surgeon-led, specialtytrained orthopedic care Ben Lancaster, MD Brent Adams, MD Jeremy Kudera, MD
1104 West 8th Street Yankton, SD 57078 Standard U.S. Postage PAID Walla Walla, WA Permit No. 44 Nebraska Creighton, NE Avera Creighton Hospital 402-358-5700 ● Jesse Kampshoff, MD* General Surgery Norfolk, NE Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C.–Norfolk 402-844-8110 ● David Abbott, MD* Ear, Nose and Throat ● Jennifer Fillaus, DO* Nephrology ● Ryan J. Garry, MD, FACS* General and Breast Surgery ● Christopher Hathaway, MD, PhD* Urology ● Robert Nicholas, MD* Ear, Nose and Throat ● Michael Pietila, MD, FCCP, FACP* Pulmonology Care near youWe provide specialty care in 14 locations outside of Yankton. O’Neill, NE Avera St. Anthony’s Hospital Specialty Clinic 402-336-5122 ● Ben Lancaster, MD* Orthopedic Surgery ● Byron Nielsen, MD* Nephrology ● Michael Pietila, MD, FCCP, FACP* Pulmonology ● Amanda Sedlacek, DO, FACOI, MSA* Palliative Medicine (telehealth visits) Osmond, NE Osmond General Hospital 402-748-3393 ● Jesse Kampshoff, MD* General Surgery Plainview, NE Plainview Area Health System 402-582-4245 ● Jesse Kampshoff, MD* General Surgery ● Byron Nielsen, MD* Nephrology Santee, NE Santee Outreach Clinic 402-857-2300 ● Byron Nielsen, MD* Nephrology ● Sara Pepper, MD* Pediatrics South Dakota Freeman, SD Freeman Regional Health Services 605-925-4219 ● Jill F. Sternquist, MD, FACOG* Obstetrics-Gynecology Gregory, SD Avera Gregory Hospital 605-835-8394 ● Amanda Sedlacek, DO, FACOI, MSA* Palliative Medicine (telehealth visits) Parkston, SD Avera St. Benedict Health Center 605-928-3311 ● Michael Pietila, MD, FCCP, FACP* Pulmonology Sioux Falls, SD Royal C. Johnson Veterans' Memorial Hospital 605-336-3230 ● Leann Bassing, MD* Rheumatology Tyndall, SD Bon Homme Family Practice Clinic 605-589-3322 ● Ryan J. Garry, MD, FACS* General and Breast Surgery Vermillion, SD Vermillion Medical Clinic 605-624-8643 ● Amy M. Eichfeld, MD, FACOG* Obstetrics-Gynecology ● Jason Howe, MS, FAAA, CCC-A Audiology ● Jesse Kampshoff, MD* General Surgery ● Jeremy Kudera, MD, ABOS* Orthopedic Surgery ● Robert Nicholas, MD* Ear, Nose and Throat ● Byron Nielsen, MD* Nephrology ● Venkata Pajjuru, MD, FACC* Cardiology ● Linda Reese, MPAS, PA-C Pulmonology ● Jill F. Sternquist, MD, FACOG* Obstetrics-Gynecology Wagner, SD Wagner Community Avera ● Brent Adams, MD, ABOS* Orthopedic Surgery 605-665-1722 ● Byron Nielsen, MD* Nephrology 605-665-1082 ● Venkata Pajjuru, MD, FACC* Cardiology Wagner Indian Health Service Clinic ● Emma Bye, MD, FACOG* Obstetrics-Gynecology 605-384-3621 *Board-certified +Board-eligible Watch for event announcements as we prepare to celebrate our 80th anniversary in 2026! 80 years strong
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