Hennepin Healthcare Clinic & Specialty Center Pharmacy

NEW EPISODE AVAILABLE! On the latest episode of The Healthy Matters Podcast, Dr. David Hilden is joined by Emergency Medicine and Critical Care Nurse Kara Fussy, and they will be taking you inside the Emergency Department of HCMC, an extremely busy Level I Trauma Center in downtown Minneapolis. They’ll discuss what a typical day looks like (if there is such a thing), and feature some of Kara’s craziest moments. Hear about those and much more now at healthymatters.org, or wherever you get your podcasts.

March is Brain Injury Awareness Month. Do you know what the four lobes of the brain do? Part 1.

The Frontal lobe is at the front of your brain, behind your forehead. This area is where planning, problem solving and reasoning take place. Home to your personality, it controls your emotions, attention span, and short-term memory. This is where your bright ideas and sense of humor come from.

Learn about our amazing Traumatic Brain Injury Center at https://ow.ly/tLYJ50V7ZMf

Chanel Davis – Clinic Associate, Adult Psychiatry

“While I lived in Alabama, my friends who worked at Hennepin Healthcare told me about how wonderful it was. They tried convincing me to move to Minneapolis and work with them, but it wasn’t until a family member got sick that I truly considered it. My family member was hospitalized here, and when I came to visit them, I was so impressed by the care they received. The healthcare staff were so kind and attentive. They really took their time to explain everything so well and encouraged questions. It was like they were taking care of their own family. I thought to myself, ‘I am going to do this!’

I moved here two years later and enrolled in a medical assistant program upon HCMC’s advice. When I was halfway through the program, they called me back to say I’d be a great fit for the clinical associate role, which I’ve been doing for over two years. My colleagues encouraged me to pursue nursing school and have supported me throughout. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them!”

Hennepin Healthcare Foundation is proud to highlight authentic stories from the wide variety of human beings who connect with our mission. Follow more Humans of Hennepin Healthcare at: hennepinhealthcare.org/humansofhennepin

Our Brooklyn Park Clinic provides a variety of services to patients of all ages, including a pharmacy, physical therapy, addiction medicine, rheumatology and senior care. See what's offered at hennepinhealthcare.org/bp

Meet our team members and learn what Black History Month means to them.

Marnesha Hords, Welcome Services Manager

What makes Black History Month meaningful to you?
It is a celebration of the heritage my ancestors didn't even realize they were creating. We have survived and thrived in a society that never intended for us to be viewed as people. Let that sink in.

What makes you feel empowered as a member of the Black and/or African American community?
My village, community, professional support system, voice, & ability to connect with people empower me. On a professional level, I feel empowered as one of the chairs for the African American Collective, a group that brings cultural awareness of African American people into Hennepin Healthcare. In this forum, we get to share knowledge of our history in a different light, highlight the accomplishments of people who look like me, & celebrate the heritage of my people for noteworthy holidays specific to African Americans such as MLK Day, Black History Month, Juneteenth, & Kwanzaa. When I started at Hennepin Healthcare, being outwardly comfortable in the skin that God put you in was not popular. It is empowering to see a drastic culture change where staff, patients, and families feel a true sense of belonging.

What self-care practices do you engage in to maintain your well-being as a member of the Black and/or African American community?
I remember to take time to replenish my mind, body, & spirit in various ways. It is essential because you cannot pour from an empty cup. Some ways I engage in self-care are spa days & talking to my elders. Their perspective, wisdom, insight, & advice are unmatched. I travel to new destinations, educate and empower other people who look like me & may not have been afforded the knowledge I have been blessed to possess. I cook & host exquisite meals, invite family/friends over to share space & community. I am a HUGE lover of music. I attend concerts & live music sets at intimate venues. The small venues bring a sense of calm & immersion into the lovely sounds. Sometimes, I withdraw to quiet the noise of the world so I can process my thoughts and feelings.

As we continue to celebrate Black History Month, read about the legacy of Hennepin Healthcare’s incredible Patti Brown-Winston, an extraordinary psychiatry nurse supervisor whose compassion, kindness, respect, teamwork, and ability to connect with people were paramount.

https://www.hennepinhealthcare.org/blog/patricia-patti-brown-winston-legacy-of-compassion-kindness-and-respect/

Meet our team members and learn what Black History Month means to them.

T'Keiah Land, Office Specialist Principal

What makes Black History Month meaningful to you?
Black History Month holds great significance for me as I continually uncover new facts overlooked during my adolescence and college years. It is a time to celebrate the remarkable contributions of Black Americans, illustrating that while we dedicate one month to honor this heritage, its impact resonates throughout the year. I take pride in recognizing the sacrifices my ancestors made—through their blood, sweat, and tears—paving the way for us to be acknowledged not just for our skin color but as resilient human beings who have shaped the fabric of our nation.

What makes you feel empowered as a member of the Black and/or African American community?
I firmly believe in embracing our authentic selves in all aspects of our lives. As a young girl, I remember feeling the pressure to conform, which led me to use chemical straighteners to fit in. I love to stand out by wearing braids as a vibrant expression of my artistry and individuality. It warms my heart to receive compliments from people of all backgrounds who may become inspired to try something new.

What self-care practices do you engage in to maintain your well-being as a member of the Black and/or African American community?
Every day, I embrace the power of positive affirmations to nurture self-love. There are days when I don't feel my best, but words have the power to make the day brighter. I care for myself by staying physically active at my local gym every weekday. Although the weather sometimes makes me want to crawl back into bed, I remind myself that my mindset is powerful and sets the tone for my day. I manage stress through movement and choose nourishing foods. This journey allows me to feel healthy in mind, body, and soul.

Hennepin Healthcare (HHS) has an opportunity available for a Learning Operations Lead (1.0 FTE) on the Organizational Development and Learning Technology team. Coverage will be day shift (Schedule TBD). 80 hours per pay period. https://hcmc.taleo.net/careersection/1/jobdetail.ftl?job=250239&tz=GMT-06%3A00&tzname=America%2FChicago

Meet our team members and learn what Black History Month means to them.

Iesha Guillory, Hospital Responder Supervisor

What makes Black History Month meaningful to you?
Black History Month is significant to me because it highlights Black people's achievements, contributions, struggles, and triumphs throughout history. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of diversity, cultural awareness, and the ongoing fight for justice and equality. This month allows for deeper conversations about racial equity while honoring the leaders, artists, activists, and everyday individuals who have shaped society.

What makes you feel empowered as a member of the Black and/or African American community?
I draw empowerment from my community, history, and support systems, which uplift and inspire me to lead by example. Learning about my ancestors' resilience and the achievements of Black trailblazers strengthens my confidence and purpose. Role models like Maya Angelou, James Baldwin, and Audre Lorde fuel my passion for justice, truth, and advocacy. Being part of spaces that support mental health, education, and creativity enhances my empowerment, along with mentorship and guidance from community leaders.

What self-care practices do you engage in to maintain your well-being as a member of the Black and/or African American community?
I nurture my well-being through strong relationships, therapy with culturally competent professionals, yoga, meditation, and physical activity, including my participation in the Minneapolis Squad of Players (Adult Kickball League), where I won the Women's League Championship in 2023 and placed second in 2024. Creative outlets like journaling, art, content creation, and music help me process emotions and stay aligned with my passions.

We are so incredibly proud and honored by our Birth Center team, who care for growing families.

One book provides hundreds of hours of beautiful memories for a child and parent. We are so thankful for the recent grant from The Rotary Club of Minneapolis ( #9) to support Children’s Literacy Program at Hennepin Healthcare. The Rotary Club of Minneapolis has been serving the community for more than 100 years with a “service above self” motto and desire to give back to their downtown community. This grant will provide 1000 books that will be distributed during a well visit for children under 5 years old. Can you imagine the beautiful memories they will make with parents, caregivers and siblings? That is precious.

Whether you're in need of a refill, home medication delivery, or access to a medication disposal bin, our pharmacy teams are here to help 💊. To find a location near you, visit hennepinhealthcare.org/pharmacy.

Known as “The Silent Killer”, high blood pressure (or Hypertension) affects nearly half of every adult in this country. Why is it called that, and are you at risk? Find out on the latest episode of The Healthy Matters Podcast as Dr. David Hilden is joined by Dr. Woubeshet Ayenew, he’s a Cardiologist and an expert on the subject. Learn all about high blood pressure, how you can manage it, and hopefully, even avoid it altogether. Listen now at healthymatters.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

97 students at today’s Black Youth with Stethoscopes!

Sharon Uchegbu, MPH, PXS – Patient Experience Advisor

“Not many people know that patient experience is a specialized career path. I provide coaching and training sessions with leaders who are looking to improve their patients’ experience and keep track of all the data from patient surveys. Our team works to ensure that patients feel respected and cared for. We want them to feel empowered in their healthcare journey.

There’s a lot of data that plays a crucial role in shaping and enhancing patient experience, like surveys, health outcomes data, wait times, and scheduling. Environmental factors like noise, privacy, and lighting can also play a role. Then there’s the psychology piece — offering emotional support, building trust, making connections, and understanding how much information a patient can manage. I’m grateful when we receive feedback from patients expressing appreciation for the team here. It’s a great motivator of why this work matters.”

Hennepin Healthcare Foundation is proud to highlight authentic stories from the wide variety of human beings who connect with our mission. Follow more Humans of Hennepin Healthcare at: hennepinhealthcare.org/humansofhennepin

Meet our team members and learn what Black History Month means to them.

Latoya Reid, Medical Assistant

What makes Black History Month meaningful to you?
It allows me to reflect on my ancestors' resilience and strength and the accomplishments we, as black people, have accomplished over the years.

What makes you feel empowered as a member of the Black and/or African American community?
I am empowered because I have been a part of changes in this world. My voice has been heard by advocating for certain things and bringing change.

What self-care practices do you engage in to maintain your well-being as a member of the Black and/or African American community?
Allowing myself to feel how I feel in certain situations and brainstorming what I could do differently. Doing this allows me to look at the big picture of situations.

Congratulations to Dr. Talee Vang on being recognized as a Notable Health Care leader. We are proud to have you as part of our team! https://tcbmag.com/notable/dr-talee-vang/