4 New providers, same commitment to care In this issue The physicians at GRMC create the foundation of our culture: Dedication. Compassion. Expertise. Excellence. Scan the QR code to meet our highly skilled doctors, or call our physician referral line at 830.401.7401. FALL 2025
2 | GRMC Health Currents At Guadalupe Regional Medical Center, bringing new life into the world is more than just a moment—it’s a mission. And in 2025, our mission received national and state recognition for outstanding quality and compassionate care. Newsweek awarded GRMC’s Birthing Center five ribbons—the highest score possible—in its annual ranking of America’s Best Maternity Hospitals. With heightened standards and increasing expectations, this recognition reflects the exceptional dedication of our team. In fact, Newsweek described GRMC’s maternity care as seamless coordination and trust among our nurses, physicians and staff. “It’s just like watching a ballet,” says Chantel Ewald, Clinical Director of the Birthing Center. “Everybody orchestrating what they need to do to take care of the patient, to take care of the baby and to have a good outcome.” Empowering new moms Adding to this achievement, GRMC was also redesignated as a Texas Ten Step Hospital, a distinction from Texas Health and Human Services that honors hospitals committed to best practices in breastfeeding support. By implementing the World Health Organization and UNICEF’s Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding, GRMC ensures that new moms are empowered with evidencebased care from the moment their babies are born. “Breastfeeding is a journey, and no mother should have to navigate it alone,” says Analia Cano, GRMC’s International BoardCertified Lactation Consultant. “At GRMC, we take a team-based approach to ensure every mom receives the education, support and encouragement she needs to feel empowered in feeding her baby.” GRMC’S BIRTHING CENTER SETS THE STANDARD FOR MATERNITY EXCELLENCE A place for life’s most important beginnings WELCOME! Visit the GRMC Birthing Center at grmcbirthingcenter.com (or scan the QR code) for pregnancy resources and breastfeeding tips, to meet our providers, and more. Celebrating new families Together, these honors speak to one truth: GRMC’s Birthing Center is a place where exceptional care, personalized attention and innovative practices come together to support moms, babies and families from day one. From early skinto-skin contact and rooming-in policies to expert breastfeeding education and family-first values, every detail of the birthing experience at GRMC is designed to promote safe, supported and joyful beginnings. “As a community hospital, we’re proud to provide big-city expertise with small-town heart,” says Lauren Riggs, Director of Women’s Services. “Our team treats every birth as a once-in-a-lifetime event—because to each family, it is.” When families choose GRMC, they’re not just choosing a birthing center. They’re choosing a partner in one of life’s most meaningful journeys. Analia Cano, IBCLC Lauren Riggs, BSN, RNC-OB Chantel Ewald, RNC-OB
grmedcenter.com | 3 Mark your calendar and bring a friend! You’re invited to our annual Mammos & Mimosas event, a special day dedicated to breast cancer prevention and education. Join us for an uplifting and informative experience. Guadalupe Regional Medical Center is committed to providing personalized, quality care for women in every stage of life—and proud to be a trusted destination for women’s health, where excellence and heartfelt care come together. We are pleased to welcome two outstanding new physicians to our team. Learn more about them here. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to enjoy a day of pampering, retail therapy and learning—all while supporting an important cause. Whether you’re here for the mimosas, the education or the camaraderie, there’s something for everyone. Let’s raise our glasses and awareness together! Saturday, Sept. 20, 10 a.m. to noon GRMC Central Entrance Lobby Scan the QR code for details! A trusted destination for women’s health Highlights of the day Free-flowing mimosas Fun giveaways Local vendors showcasing fashions, jewelry and gift items for women Tours of our state-of-the-art Women’s Imaging Center Breast cancer education and resources The opportunity to schedule your annual breast cancer screening A custom 40-ounce, pink, stainless steel tumbler for the first 100 guests GRMC: Azza Abdalla, MD Azza Abdalla, MD, is a boardcertified obstetrician and gynecologist, born in Providence, Rhode Island, and raised in South Carolina. She earned her undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences with a minor in Medical Humanities from the South Carolina Honors College at the University of South Carolina. She received her medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston and completed her residency at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, North Carolina. Dr. Abdalla is passionate about building meaningful connections with her patients, taking the time to understand them as individuals and providing thoughtful guidance to support informed decision-making. Her clinical interests include high-risk obstetric care, complex delivery planning, family planning and minimally invasive gynecologic surgery. She enjoys spending time with friends and family, discovering new restaurants, and traveling to explore new places. Vivian Lipton, MD Vivian Lipton, MD, is a dually board-certified Family Physician and Obesity Medicine Specialist with more than two decades of experience in mother-baby care. As a full-spectrum primary care provider, Dr. Lipton offers lifelong care to individuals and families—including prenatal care and childbirth services. She has specialized expertise in obstetrics and has managed more than 500 deliveries, including surgical births and postpartum procedures. Before attending medical school, Dr. Lipton spent over 10 years working as a midwife and health educator, laying the foundation for her patient-centered approach. She earned both her medical degree and completed her family medicine residency at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Lubbock. She also holds a Master of Public Health from New Mexico State University and graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science from Brigham Young University. Dr. Lipton is passionate about advancing maternal and newborn health through compassionate, evidence-based care that supports women and families throughout every stage of life. In her spare time, she and her husband enjoy spending time with their blended family of 10 children (yes, 10!), as well as backporch living with their dogs, sewing and traveling. Accepting new patients, beginning October 2025 Azza Abdalla, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology Location: 417 S. King St., Seguin TX 78155 Phone: 830.372.2791 Vivian Lipton, MD, FMOB Family Medicine and Obstetrics Location: 1352 E. Walnut St., Seguin TX 78155 Phone: 830.475.4321 Accepting new patients, beginning September 2025
4 | GRMC Health Currents same Find relief at GRMC’s new Resistant Amy Evans, NP Amy Evans, NP, has over 13 years of combined experience in ICU, emergency care, clinical informatics and hospice and is passionate about patient-centered care. She began her nursing career in 2009 as an LVN after training in Woodville, Texas. She earned an associate’s degree from Angelina College; a BSN from UT Arlington; and, most recently, a master’s in nursing and FNP certification from Texas Woman’s University. Amy is passionate about caring for patients with endocrine disorders, including diabetes, and is deeply motivated by her personal experience as an insulindependent diabetic for over 10 years. She focuses on empowering patients through education, support and assisting them in navigating the challenges of managing their health. She takes pride in making her care patient-centered and strives to meet patients where they are in their journey. As a provider under Jonven Attia, MD, a board-certified endocrinologist, Amy collaborates closely with Dr. Attia to deliver comprehensive care for patients with endocrine disorders. This partnership allows her to integrate specialized expertise into her patient-centered approach, ensuring holistic and tailored management plans. Amy Evans, Nurse Practitioner Endocrinology Location: 105 Medical Dr., Seguin TX 78155 Phone: 830.484.4204 Currently accepting new patients As GRMC continues our mission to expand healthcare access within the community and beyond, we’re excited to welcome two highly skilled specialists to our team. Each brings unique expertise that will further enhance the quality of care we provide. Their arrival reflects GRMC’s ongoing commitment to offering comprehensive, specialized services by ensuring our patients have access to top-tier medical care, right in their own neighborhood. Do you or someone you love suffer from chronic hypertension, or high blood pressure? Sometimes patients continue to take one, two or even three medications to try to get their blood pressure under control, causing unwanted symptoms and still frustrating best efforts to reverse the condition. High blood pressure is a serious condition that can lead to significant complications, such as stroke, heart and kidney disease, and eye damage. Now, GRMC is offering a Resistant Hypertension Clinic to help patients in this situation. We are fortunate to have the impressive medical expertise of B. Sangha, MD, who is quadruple board-certified in Internal Medicine, Critical Care, Nephrology and Hypertension. Under Dr. Sangha’s care, patients will receive advance treatment options such as renal denervation, a procedure that may lower blood pressure without dependence on medication. New providers,
Patient-centered, team-driven: Endoscopy at GRMC GRMC’s Endoscopy team, under the leadership of Tony Tsen, MD, since 2002, fosters a culture of strong teamwork, communication, and a shared commitment to patient safety and satisfaction. “Our team brings 110% every day,” says Deanna Campos, BSN, RN, Director of Endoscopy. “We go above and beyond to listen, understand and show compassion.” The small yet highly adaptable staff excels at meeting the needs of a busy unit while prioritizing patient care. Each member plays a crucial role in ensuring patients feel informed, at ease and well-cared for. Their dedication and close-knit teamwork make GRMC’s Endoscopy team a trusted leader in timely, high-quality, patient-centered care. grmedcenter.com | 5 commitment to care Hypertension Clinic Interested in specialty care for hypertension? Talk to your healthcare provider about getting a referral to the clinic. Cost and insurance details vary on a case-by-case basis. Call 830.484.4600 to learn more. Gabriel Gonzales, DO Gabriel Gonzales, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with deep Texas roots, having spent much of his upbringing in Clyde. Initially drawn to bioengineering and mathematics, he found his calling in medicine through early hands-on experiences as a patient transporter and emergency medical technician. Dr. Gonzales earned his undergraduate degree from The University of Texas at Arlington and his medical degree from The University of North Texas Health Science Center. He completed his residency and fellowship training in Fort Worth, rotating through Medical City Fort Worth, John Peter Smith Hospital, Baylor All Saints and The University of North Texas Health Science Center. He has a special interest in inflammatory bowel diseases, particularly Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, as well as liver disease. He takes a comprehensive, patient-centered approach that emphasizes education, shared decision-making and individualized treatment plans. His goal is to align care with each patient’s medical needs, preferences and social context. Outside of his practice, Dr. Gonzales enjoys woodworking, fixing up cars, gardening and just about anything that gets him outdoors— hiking, backpacking or cycling. He shares these adventures (and the occasional home project) with his wife, Ally Goyer, DO, a Hospitalist at GRMC. Gabriel Gonzales, DO Gastroenterology Location: 1339 E. Court St., Suite 230, Seguin, TX 78155 Phone: 830.420.6770 Accepting new patients, beginning October 2025
6 | GRMC Health Currents Expanding access to primary care At GRMC, our commitment to expanding access and enhancing care for our community continues to grow. We’re excited to welcome two outstanding new providers to our Family Medicine team: Jacob Somen, DO, and Britney Friesenhahn, PA-C. With their diverse backgrounds, clinical expertise and patient-centered philosophies, they bring fresh perspectives and compassionate care to individuals and families across our region. Whether you’re looking for a trusted partner in preventive health, chronic disease management or comprehensive family care, Dr. Somen and Britney are here to help guide you on your health journey, close to home, with care you can count on. Jacob Somen, DO Primary Care Spanish-speaking Location: 411 S. King St., Seguin TX 78155 Phone: 830.484.4200 Accepting new patients, beginning September 2025 At GRMC, we believe in the power of community and compassionate care. With nearly 90 dedicated volunteers, we make a difference every day by supporting our patients, families and visitors. WHY VOLUNTEER AT GRMC? • Impactful roles: From front information desks to outpatient waiting areas, gift shops, and critical Join our team of compassionate Volunteers at GRMC! Britney Friesenhahn, PA-C Primary Care Location: 1761 South, TX-46, Suite 104, New Braunfels, TX 78130 Phone: 830.433.7815 Currently accepting new patients Jacob Somen, DO Jacob Somen, DO, is a boardcertified family physician who grew up in Carol Stream, Illinois. Initially drawn to psychology, he discovered a passion for holistic care and preventive medicine, which led him to pursue primary care. He earned his undergraduate degree at Loyola University Chicago and his medical degree at Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine in New Mexico. He completed his residency at North Country in Flagstaff, Arizona. Dr. Somen finds fulfillment in the diversity of patient needs, requiring a broad knowledge of all body systems. He is particularly passionate about preventive care, women’s health and geriatric care. His care philosophy focuses on collaborating with patients to make decisions together, respecting their treatment choices and creating personalized care plans. As a first-generation college graduate in his family, he brings a unique perspective, emphasizing genuine relationships and aiming to make a positive impact on each patient’s health journey. He also speaks conversational Spanish, which helps him connect more personally with a diverse range of patients. Britney Friesenhahn, PA-C Britney Friesenhahn, a certified Physician Assistant, completed her undergraduate degree at St. Mary’s University and her master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. With over 15 years of diverse clinical experience, Britney brings a wealth of expertise to her role in Family Medicine. Her dedication to caring for patients and her passion for comprehensive family care led her to Family Medicine. Britney is proficient in managing a wide range of conditions, from diabetes and thyroid disorders to osteoporosis and musculoskeletal conditions, focusing on treating the whole person and addressing all their medical needs. Britney’s approach to patient care is centered on empowering patients with up-to-date medical knowledge to make informed decisions about their health. She views herself as a collaborative team member in each patient’s health journey, striving to help them achieve their personal health goals and live their best lives. Britney serves as a provider under Brett Earnest, MD, a board-certified Primary Care Physician. Working closely with Dr. Earnest, she is committed to delivering high-quality, patientcentered care within a supportive and collaborative primary care environment.
grmedcenter.com | 7 Rewarding words to hear from you As the CEO of our community hospital, I have at least one person every day of the year commenting to me about the care that they or their loved one received at GRMC or at one of our physician clinics. It is definitely the most rewarding part of my job to repeatedly hear how our doctors and staff provide top quality, compassionate and timely care. I may hear about how a particular specialist literally saved someone’s life or about the wonderful experience a new mom experienced in the birthing center. It may be about the dignified end of life that was delivered through our hospice team or about our fastacting professional emergency team. It may be about the nice phlebotomist who took extra time to make sure the stick didn’t hurt or about the amazing therapist who helped a dad recover from his stroke. Sometimes I am told that our registration staff are always smiling and helpful or that our housekeepers go out of their way to make sure the patient room was clean and restful. I am no longer surprised to hear these compliments, but I never take them for granted. At GRMC, we are all aware of our great responsibility to serve every patient and family member. We are committed to ensuring that each new hire and each newly recruited physician is someone who will embrace our mission and maintain our reputation for excellence. This edition of Health Currents is dedicated to our amazing team of staff, leaders, physicians and volunteers who care each day for our community and who make a positive difference in every life we are privileged to touch. departments like Medical and Surgery, volunteers play a vital role in enhancing patient experiences. • Community service: Join a tradition of caring for neighbors and serving our community. • Build connections: Develop meaningful relationships with fellow volunteers, physicians and staff. • Flexible opportunities: Whether you’re a student, retiree or professional, there’s a place for your skills and passion at GRMC. Since our inception 25 years ago, the Guadalupe Regional Medical Foundation (GRMF) has been dedicated to promoting, preserving and expanding the services provided at GRMC. In May, GRMF had the privilege of connecting that mission with that of Caterpillar Industries during their Centennial World Tour. In honor of their 100th year in operation, Caterpillar made a very generous, unrestricted $30,000 contribution to GRMF. The gift not only supports our mission, but also energizes our efforts and commitments to the community and our industry partners. Caterpillar opened their Seguin plant in 2009 and since then have been one of the many local industries that have been key partners for our hospital and our community. Caterpillar joined Alamo Group, Cargill, CMC, GVEC, Hexcel, Minigrip and Republic Plastics as recently as 2022 to fund crucial lab equipment for the hospital during COVID-19, and they contribute to programs such as our Prescription Assistance Program annually through their United Way donations. GRMF is grateful to partner with local manufacturers and businesses, creating a strong network of mutual support. We care for their employees’ health, and, in turn, they generously help fund vital projects at our facility. A strong medical community is vital to the health and long-term success of our businesses and our shared community. LEARN MORE AND APPLY NOW: Go to grmedcenter.com/about/careers-volunteering/ volunteer or call 830.401.7620. Robert Haynes From left: Tony Schaker, GRMF Board Chair; Robert G. Haynes, GRMC CEO; Elaine Bennett, GRMF CEO; Ryan Gustafson, Caterpillar Vice President & General Manger, Large Engines Elaine Bennett We welcome the opportunity to collaborate with all local businesses for new projects. Please contact Elaine Bennett at 830.401.1385 or ebennett@grmedcenter.com for more information. Key partners for our hospital and our community • Hospice support: Volunteers also contribute to our compassionate hospice care, providing comfort and companionship to patients and families.
Providing a wide scope of personalized family and specialty care Anesthesia · Cardiology · ENT · ER · Endocrinology · GI · General Surgery · Hospitalist · Intensivist · Maternal/Fetal · Neonatology · Nephrology · OB-GYN · Oncology · Ophthalmology · Orthopedics · Pain · Palliative Pathology · Pediatrics · Pedi Dentistry · Physical Medicine · Primary Care · Podiatry · Psychiatry · Radiology · Urology Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Walla Walla, WA Permit No. 44 HEALTH CURRENTS is published as a community service for the friends and patrons of GUADALUPE REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER, 1215 E. Court St., Seguin, TX 78155, 800.506.6394 or 830.379.2411. Website: grmedcenter.com. Robert G. Haynes, FACHE, Chief Executive Officer Kody Gann, CPA, Chief Financial Officer Daphne Blake, RN, MSN, Chief Nursing Officer Sheri Williams, RN, MSN, Chief Operating Officer Fay Bennett, VP of Employee Services Lauren Carter, VP of Physician Services Steve Lara, CEO of Guadalupe Regional Medical Group Elaine Bennett, CEO of Guadalupe Regional Medical Foundation Deana Henk, FACHE, Chief Executive Officer, Guadalupe Health Network Rhonda Unruh, MHA, RN, VP of Quality James Lee, MD, GRMC Governing Board Chairman Michelle Rumbaut, GRMC Project Administrator Health Currents Editor: Chelsea Maldonado, MBA, Director of Marketing Carmela Fadal, GRMC Business Development Analyst Information in HEALTH CURRENTS comes from a wide range of medical experts. If you have any concerns or questions about specific content that may affect your health, please contact your healthcare provider. Models may be used in photos and illustrations. 2025 © Coffey Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.
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