Kansas City, Kan- Dr. Steve Stites, Chief Medical Officer at the University of Kansas Health System, highlights the crucial role of Clinical Nurse Coordinators (CNCs) in patient care.

Joyce Funk from the cystic fibrosis and lung transplant follow-up clinic and Shawna Schaefer from the hepatobiliary transplant clinic are featured.

Their long-standing professional relationships with Dr. Kumer are praised for their effectiveness in patient care.

The discussion emphasizes the importance of a balanced approach to patient care, combining medical science with the art of caring.  

Joyce Funk, clinical coordinator Cystic Fibrosis Clinic, The University of Kansas Health System

• Dr. Stites and Joyce Funk discuss their long-term working relationship, humorously avoiding revealing the exact number of years.
• The importance of the "art" of patient care, especially for those with chronic diseases, is highlighted.

Dr. Steve Stites, Chief Medical Officer, The University of Kansas Health System

• Dr. Stites explains the importance of clinical nurse coordinators for patient education, triaging and coordinating care.

Shawna Schafer, clinical nurse coordinator for HPB transplants (liver, pancreas, bile duct), The University of Kansas Health System

• Shawna Schaefer shares her seven-year working relationship with Dr. Kumer, describing it as both awesome and challenging.
• The team approach is emphasized, with both working together to address patient concerns and develop a to-do list for follow-up.

Dr. Sean Kumer, Transplant Surgeon and Chief Medical Officer, The University of Kansas Health System  

• Dr. Kumer praises Shawna's empathy and time spent with patients, noting that patients often thank her more than him.
• They discuss their similar clinical approaches, emphasizing the balance between medical and emotional care for patients.

Dr. Dana Hawkinson, Medical Director of Infection Prevention and Control, The University of Kansas Health System  

• Discusses new recommendations for COVID vaccinations.
• Dr. Hawkinson advises to people to protect themselves and check for ticks.