Oklahoma Heart Institute

10/30/2025

Although "falling back" is easier than losing an hour in the spring, Dr. Michael Newnam, sleep medicine specialist at Oklahoma Heart Institute, says the end of Daylight Saving Time is still a big adjustment. He sat down with KOTV - News On 6 to lay out ways you can prepare ahead of the time change.

Sleep doctor provides tips for adjusting to the end of daylight saving time, emphasizing gradual schedule changes and prioritizing sleep for better health.

10/30/2025

It all began in nursing school, when Shaneice, RN, joined Hillcrest as a nurse extern. The complexity of the care and the warmth of the team made her decision easy — she knew she had found her place.

She officially began her career as a patient care tech on the GYN/oncology floor. With dedication, compassion, and a drive to grow, Shaneice advanced into her current role as a cardiac RN on the stepdown unit — a true reflection of the opportunities and support available at Hillcrest.

And the best part of her day? It’s the quiet moments.

“When a patient thanks me for taking good care of them. I always want to provide the best care I can, so it feels good when a patient validates your care.” And as a bonus, “My coworkers are pretty fun to be around as well.”

This is Shaneice’s story – and it’s one of many that show how Hillcrest is more than a workplace. It’s a place where careers grow, laughter is shared, and care is given with heart. Learn more about opportunities at Hillcrest and start your story by visiting the link in the comments.

10/30/2025

One of our newest providers, Chelsea Ray, APRN-CNP, specializes in advanced heart failure at the Advanced Heart Failure Center. She was drawn to the specialty both through her love of learning about the human vascular system and through her love of people. "I really enjoy working alongside patients as they navigate their health journey,” Chelsea said.

Outside of work, Chelsea enjoys spending time with her family, often at ball fields or basketball gyms since her four children are active in sports.

To make an appointment with Chelsea, call 918-592-0999.

10/29/2025

The clocks "fall back" one hour on Sunday! Daylight Saving Time (DST) is a great time to review your sleep hygiene and make sure your family is set up for success when the time changes. Dr. Keziah Aibangbee, sleep specialist at Oklahoma Heart Institute, shares three top tips for DST prep:

1. Shift your sleep schedule gradually. Start adjusting your bedtime and wake time by 10 to 15 minutes later each night for several days before the clock change. This helps your circadian rhythm adapt to the new time.
2. Stick to a consistent sleep routine. Maintain regular sleep and wake times, even on weekends. Consistency reinforces your body’s natural rhythm and improves sleep quality!
3. Establish calming evening rituals or habits. Wind down with relaxing activities like reading, stretching or a warm bath. Avoid stimulating tasks and bright lights in the evening to help signal your body that it’s time to sleep.

10/28/2025

When you hear 'ultrasound', you may think of an expecting parent seeing their child for the first time. But ultrasound technology is more versatile than you'd expect! This , we want to show you the people behind this incredible technology at Oklahoma Heart Institute (OHI)!

Ultrasound offers a non-invasive and radiation-free option to get a look at your heart and vascular system. Whether you and your provider are looking for a diagnosis or checking on your heart after a valve replacement, this technology and the people who operate it are there to give you the best picture possible.

"Critical thinking is very important in this job," said Andrea, cardiovascular ultrasound supervisor. "Thorough exams for each patient will probably look quite different... so you have to know how and when to add to or adjust the protocol."

Our ultrasound team doesn't just help current patients; their work at OHI helps develop the future of cardiac care. "I’m really proud of our role in the research trials offered at OHI," said Rebecca, lead outpatient cardiovascular sonographer. "It is both challenging and rewarding to perform these exams, and it’s great to see these new treatment options become available to our patients and know we played a part in that."

To our ultrasound team; thank you for your dedication and expertise!

10/28/2025

Daylight Saving Time (DST) is this weekend; are you and your family ready to "fall back?" It's best to start early! In addition to adjusting bedtimes to account for the time change, practicing good sleep hygiene is incredibly important. Sleep specialists Dr. Michael Newnam, Courtney Schrader, APRN, FNP-C and Kristi Tranum, APRN-CNP, CNS, share what they wouldn't do to adjust to DST.

10/23/2025

Let your voice spark change! Join our Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC)!

We invite you to become a member of our PFAC, which brings together patients, families and care team members to collaborate in enhancing the quality, safety and the overall experience of care.

You might be a great fit if you: Enjoy sharing feedback, working with others and can commit to one hour every three months. Your insights can make a real difference.

Learn more and apply at the link in the comments below.

10/22/2025

Welcome, Keziah Aibangbee, M.D., to the team at Oklahoma Heart Institute! She practices sleep medicine with special interests in sleep disorders, patient education and improving her patients’ quality of life.

Dr. Aibangbee says she was drawn to sleep medicine after seeing the profound impact of sleep disorders on overall long-term health. “Patients may not expect how much we focus on understanding their full lifestyle and daily routines, not just their symptoms,” said Dr. Aibangbee. “This holistic approach helps us create personalized care plans that make a real difference in their quality of life.”

When Dr. Aibangbee isn’t working, she enjoys exploring nature, staying active and traveling. Call 918-592-0999 to book an appointment or click the link in the comments for more information.

10/22/2025

Today we recognize the vital contributions of medical assistants. Their dedication helps ensure quality care and support for patients every day.

10/21/2025

This week, we celebrate the medical assistants (MAs) who are the heartbeat of our team at Oklahoma Heart Institute! Whether it's checking in patients, assisting with procedures or keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes, the dedication, compassion and expertise of MAs like Jesse, Samantha, Whittney, Mercedes, Ava and Marium make a real difference.

Thank you to all of our MAs across the Hillcrest system for being the calm in the chaos and the helping hands and friendly faces that reassure our patients.

10/16/2025

Skip the waiting room and check in from anywhere. With eCheck-In on MyChart, you can update your information, sign forms and confirm your appointment before you arrive. It’s fast, secure and saves you time.

✅ Review your health info
✅ Sign documents digitally
✅ Breeze through your check-in

Sign up or log in to MyChart to get started today. Find a link with more information in the comments below.

10/15/2025

We participated in Tulsa Pride to help recognize Tulsa's LGBTQIA+ community! Hillcrest and our providers are committed to providing safe spaces where everyone feels seen, heard and valued. Thanks to everyone who waved to us during the parade or visited the Hillcrest booth. See you next year!