Mid-America Gastro-Intestinal Consultants

September 5, 2023

2075

Story by Jeanie Edgmon

Playing a Powerful Role in the Care of GI Patients

As a specialty, gastroenterology has never been at a point of more possibility. Patient awareness surrounding things such as colorectal cancer is increasing as are screening rates; new medications to help treat many problematic issues have recently been developed; the introduction of artificial intelligence is showing incredible promise in the accumulation of data, and the public as a whole has never been more aware of the importance of gut health.

The team at Mid-America Gastro-Intestinal Consultants (MAGIC) is proud to be at the forefront of digestive care, with three offices in the Kansas City area.

Sandra A. Hoover, APRN, BC, Sakher Albadarin, MD, Hillary L. Bownik, MD, Kristi Ott, BSN, ARNP, Charles McMahon, MD

Established in 1984, Mid-America Gastro-Intestinal Consultants (MAGIC) was built on the foundation of patient-centered care. The goal was to provide easy access to specialized care for better outcomes and increased patient satisfaction. Today, the practice which has been recognized with IBD Excellence by the American Gastroenterological Association— has grown to four doctors and three nurse practitioners who combine extensive medical expertise and the latest research breakthroughs and technologies to continue that legacy.

As one of the newest members of the team, Charles McMahon, MD was drawn to the practice’s philosophy of delivering truly individualized and exceptional care.

“I really believe in joint decision-making and push for that with my patients. We take the time to explain what is going on, what the tests say, and all of the options. It is an ongoing process of maintaining communication and flexibility to find what works,” he shared.

Dr. McMahon is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology and a member of the American Medical Association, American Gastroenterology Association, American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, and American College of Gastroenterology. Dr. McMahon received his medical degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. He then went on to an Internal Medicine residency at the University of Colorado before completing a fellowship in Gastroenterology at the University of Missouri – Kansas City, training at Truman Medical Center and St. Luke’s Hospital.

After fellowship, Dr. McMahon moved to Chicago as an assistant professor of Medicine in the division of Gastroenterology and Nutrition at Loyola University Medical Center. Having enjoyed his time in Kansas City, he decided to move back and join the MAGIC team where he practices general Gastroenterology performing upper endoscopy (EGD) and colonoscopy with an interest in disorders of gut-brain interaction, GERD, eosinophilic esophagitis, and colon cancer screening among other professional interests.

Explaining the many aspects that drew him to the practice, he added, “There is a very collaborative spirit here and I would say we are a true team. Because of our size, we know everyone in every department which adds to efficiency and patient care.”

Efficiency is Key to Care

The practice size sits in the magical “Goldilocks” zone of being large enough to accommodate patients quickly and small enough to take time with each patient.

“Not everything in GI care is straightforward and many patients come in frustrated, discouraged, and often in pain. They want more than just ordering another test. They want to be heard. Here, we have the enviable opportunity to sit down, listen, and work together to find solutions. For me, that is the most rewarding thing– to know that a patient was able to have an improved quality of life.”

In addition to the team of doctors which also includes doctors Mark J. Allen, Hillary L. Bownik, and Sakher Albadarin, the practice also has three outstanding nurse practitioners Sandra A. Hoover, APRN, BC, Stephanie Justin, APRN, FNP-BC, and the newest member of the MAGIC team, Kristi Ott, BSN, MSN, ARNP.

Ott’s career includes 26 years in nursing and close to 10 years in Gastroenterology. She had been working in GI for some time when the opportunity to join the team presented itself.

“I was thrilled to join the team because it is known for having a positive and synergetic vibe. The value of every team member is recognized and utilized to the fullest capacity, and everyone is able to give their best. This is really transformative in-patient care,” she explained.

After receiving her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1997 from the University of Central Missouri, she earned a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Missouri Kansas City in December 2006 and obtained her family practice certification in 2007.

“One of the most enjoyable things about what I do is being able to help fast-track patient care. Many patients do not realize that seeing a nurse practitioner is the first step to getting the care they need. Instead of waiting for an appointment with a particular doctor, they can see us and get the process started. We can gather all of the important data, order tests, and more, and then pass all of that along to the specialist. This provides a way for patients to take more control over their health. I always try to educate patients regarding the role of the nurse practitioner and how we can help them through the process most efficiently,” continued Ott.

Providing Individualized Care

Most GI conditions do not have a one-size-fits-all solution, and this is why the team at MAGIC strives to provide individualized care.

“Digestive diseases encompass a wide range of conditions and symptoms. Finding relief can be an arduous journey for the patient, and we honor that. As a team, I think we all want patients to feel that they had doctors and other professionals who empathized with them, listened closely, and found the best possible treatment for them. That is our highest goal and greatest reward,” expounded Dr. McMahon.

Dr. Sakher Albadarin, a native of Shawnee and avid Kansas City Chiefs and Royals fan, explained why having the opportunity to provide individualized care is so professionally and personally gratifying.

“What we find most rewarding about our medical practice is the opportunity to make a positive impact on people’s lives, especially during times of need. We are here to provide compassionate care, support, and healing to our patients. We prioritize each individual’s well-being and are dedicated to delivering the highest quality medical care with empathy, understanding, and a patient-centered approach. Patient health and comfort are our top priorities,” he concluded.