Good Day Ascension - Summer 2021

Good Day Ascension For Associates of Our One Integrated Ministry

SUMMER 2021

On the move

FROM A VIRTUAL 5K TO A NEW STRATEGIC PLAN, ASCENSION IS COMING TOGETHER IN NEW WAYS

INSIDE:

The Ascension Strategic Plan / Primary care at home / Peer support for Emergency Department providers / A new vision for cancer care

WELCOME

LOOKING FORWARD TOGETHER

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ver the past several months, I’ve had the opportunity to visit care sites across Ascension, and the dedication to our Mission is visible and evident across our shared ministry. Thanks to COVID-19 vaccine efforts, we’re witnessing new hope and a sense of renewal. As we look back on our Mission Week in May, we continue to draw strength from the courageous communities that came before us, especially as we pursue our shared work of promoting human dignity, the common good and justice through our ABIDE framework.

We’re putting into practice the lessons we’ve learned during the pandemic, even as we continue to respond to its

impact. Our work over the past 18 months highlighted the need to innovate and transform from within, and challenged us to adopt new approaches to best meet the needs of our patients and communities. It’s going to take the continued commitment of our caregivers and associates as we advance our Strategic Plan.

As we look forward together, may we never lose sight of our “why” for this important work — to carry on the healing ministry of Jesus, especially to those who are poor and vulnerable.

Joseph R. Impicciche, JD, MHA PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, ASCENSION

“ Our work over the past 18 months highlighted the need to innovate and transform from within, and challenged us to adopt new approaches to best meet the needs of our patients and communities.”

Good Day Ascension / Summer 2021 - Issue 16 Good Day Ascension is published by Ascension Marketing and Communications for associates and family members across our integrated national health ministry. Stories in Good Day Ascension support our One Ascension journey and reflect the commitment of associates, clinicians and volunteers across the health ministry to provide compassionate, personalized care to all, with special attention to persons living in poverty and those most vulnerable.

Executive Editor: Nick Ragone, JD, nick.ragone@ascension.org Editor: Ted Siegel, ted.siegel@ascension.org Design and Production: dcpubs.com To share comments, ask questions or suggest articles for Good Day Ascension, please email GoodDay@ascension.org, or send a note to Editor, Good Day Ascension, Ascension Marketing and Communications, 4600 Edmundson Road, St. Louis, MO 63134.

All content copyright 2021 Ascension. Republication or any other use of the contents of Good Day Ascension without the express written consent of Ascension is prohibited. Any reference to or depiction of a product or service does not constitute or imply an endorsement by Ascension. Online version available at Ascension.org/goodday.

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G O O D DAY A S C E N S I O N / A S C E N S I O N .O R G

Our Mission: Rooted in the loving ministry of Jesus as healer, we commit ourselves to serving all persons with special attention to those who are poor and vulnerable. Our Catholic health ministry is dedicated to spiritually centered, holistic care which sustains and improves the health of individuals and communities. We are advocates for a compassionate and just society through our actions and our words.

CONTENTS

DEPARTMENTS 4 Mailbox Ascension Texas associates Jamie Merriam, Program Manager, Orthopedics & Sports Performance, left, and Joel Wise, Director, Network Relations, share their event bibs showing why they participated in the Ascension Virtual 5K.

FEATURES 16 The Ascension Strategic Plan

We are accelerating our transformation to a more fully integrated health ministry that provides a wide variety of care services that meet consumers’ evolving preferences and expectations.

22 ABIDE across Ascension

Ascension’s ABIDE framework fosters diversity and inclusion.

24 Home sweet home

Primary care that is based in the home makes a tremendous difference for both patients and clinicians.

26 By your side

An ED service line PACT program was introduced across Ascension earlier this year.

28 Re-envisioning oncology care

The Oncology Service Line seeks to provide the highest value to all patients through a best-in-class and multidisciplinary cancer program.

On the cover: Clockwise from bottom left, Joel Wise, Director, Network Relations, Ascension Seton; Alex Breitenwischer, Athletic Trainer, Ascension Providence; Charles Claxton, Athletic Trainer, Ascension Seton; and Jamie Merriam, Program Manager, Orthopedics & Sports Performance, Ascension Texas, prepare for Ascension’s Virtual 5K.

Patients and families share letters of thanks to caregivers.

5 Inspiration

The Ascension Value of Reverence calls us to meet people where they are, caring for them in their homes.

6 Up front

Mohamad Fakih, MD, MPH, receives the inaugural Dr. David Pryor Quality Award. …

Ministry Markets begin transitioning to the Good Day Ascension Intranet. … Mission events bring associates together. … The Good Day Ascension Newscast shares stories and updates. … Foundation virtual galas and generous contributions support quality care. … Developing the Ascension Best Practice Library.

14 Getting to know you

Meet Tracie Loftis, Senior Vice President, Mission Integration, Ascension.

15 Wellness now

Take the Path to Fulfillment Challenge and explore the characteristics of a life well lived.

30 News from across Ascension

What’s happening around the ministry.

Back cover

Michael Howze goes the extra mile while managing the Outpatient Physical Medicine and Wound Center at Ascension St. John Jane Phillips in Bartlesville, Oklahoma.

SUMMER 2021

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M AI LBOX

THE GOOD DAY ASCENSION TEAM WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM YOU ABOUT WHAT YOU LIKE IN THIS MAGAZINE AND SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE EDITIONS. SEND YOUR LETTERS TO THE EDITOR TO GOODDAY@ASCENSION.ORG.

Messages from those we serve I had a wonderful experience at [Ascension] Saint Thomas Rutherford for my delivery of our little girl. … I was proud to call STR my “home” hospital.

I’ll never forget my experience. … I felt so comfortable and in great hands!

Please make sure the third floor crew knows how much they are appreciated.

Patient at Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford, Murfreesboro, Tennessee

My husband and I, along with our family, wanted to send a huge thanks for when our mother was in your hospital. …

The nurses, food service, janitorial help, doctors — and anyone else I might have missed — were all gracious and truly concerned about Mother‘s care. Your hospital is to be highly commended for a job well done.

Family member of patient at Ascension Sacred Heart Gulf, Port St. Joe, Florida

I took my 89-year-old father to the ER around 10 a.m. The service he received there was unbelievable. The registration was immediate and the physicians arrived to his room and started their evaluation as soon as Dad was settled in. … [T]he nurse assigned to him was Sara Boyce.

I cannot say enough good things about this young nurse. She was confident, exhibited a wealth of knowledge and had so much patience, asked Dad questions, and made Dad feel like he was her only concern while she was with him. … Sara is a wonderful ambassador for your hospital.

Family member of patient at Ascension Providence, Novi, Michigan

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My nurse was Chad Whiren and he made a stressful and difficult experience so much better for me. He spoke to me with kindness and compassion. … He reassured me that I would be all right. His care helped to make me feel instantly better and stronger. … Chad is an extraordinary nurse and I wanted to express my appreciation for how well he took care of me physically and emotionally. Your hospital is very fortunate to have such a talented and professional nurse on its staff.

Patient at Ascension Genesys, Grand Blanc, Michigan

We’ve had a team of doctors who’ve helped get us beyond pregnancy losses and to this healthy little girl. The support continues in the doctors’ offices and even here online. Thank you all for being so kind. It’s meant more than you know.

Facebook post from patient at Ascension Via Christi St. Joseph, Wichita, Kansas

I wish to commend … the Emergency Room for prompt and courteous service. … Dr. [Sailesh] Pakkala for the thoroughness in my examinations … to the nurses and service personnel on the floor for room 451 for their personal care, and last but not least, to TouchPoint for their tasty and appropriate meals.

Patient at Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford, Murfreesboro, Tennessee

I had a job, insurance and a good income.

That fell apart in one hour. I was at my lowest point not knowing how to pay for medicine or healthcare. I called the clinic and the pharmacy and was guided on what to do. I was treated with respect

G O O D DAY A S C E N S I O N / A S C E N S I O N .O R G

and these people were very kind and caring. Sam was great . … Rachael and Cassie at the pharmacy were great, and Ms. Thomas. … [T]hey deserve credit for what they do.

Patient at Ascension Saint Thomas Hickman Hospital, Centerville, Tennessee

This letter is to thank the nurses at AMITA Health St. Mary’s Hospital for [their] care and compassion during my recent stay. … I would like to especially thank the following nurses … Susan, Emma, Katrina, Jenny and Ashley were awesome. Since no visitors were allowed, their contact was imperative to my recovery.

Patient letter sent to the Daily Journal, Kankakee, Illinois

I can’t thank you enough for your nursing staff’s compassionate treatment of my mother. Some even visited Mom during their days off. Many came to say goodbye to Mom during the wake services, too.

It was very overwhelming and a very heart-wrenching personal experience for me and my sisters.

Family member of patient at Ascension Living Resurrection Place, Park Ridge, Illinois

A patient with appendicitis was sent to the Ascension Elmbrook Emergency Department and cared for by Dr. Bobby Wu and his team. The care she received there was very compassionate and personalized and she noticed the difference. … Now the entire family is switching their care to Ascension Wisconsin — all of this based on this one interaction!

Physician at Ascension Elmbrook, Brookfield, Wisconsin

I N S P I R AT I O N

Ascension Values call us to meet people where they are

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he Ascension Value of Reverence, “respect and compassion for the dignity and diversity of life,” is central to our identity as a healing ministry.

In many ways, it’s the source of our other Values as well. Generosity of spirit, especially for persons most in need (Service of the Poor), inspiring trust through personal leadership (Integrity), integrating excellence and stewardship (Wisdom), courageous innovation (Creativity), and affirming the hope and joy of our ministry (Dedication) all flow from our basic commitment to the dignity of every person.

This issue of Good Day Ascension magazine is filled with examples of Reverence in action, calling us to meet people where they are. This can be interpreted figuratively, as in our deepening focus on the ABIDE framework. It also can be meant quite literally, as with many of the initiatives that make up the Ascension Strategic Plan, such as Ascension’s home-based care strategy (see story on page 24).

Baligh Yehia, MD, MPP, FACP, Senior Vice President, Ascension, and President, Ascension Medical Group, said: “Home care, in the truest sense of the word, is meeting people where they are. Certain people cannot come to the clinic, for many reasons. Some are our elderly patients who have a hard time with transportation, or younger parents who cannot get a babysitter, or people incapacitated in other ways that prevent them from getting there.” As he notes, encountering people at home provides valuable insight. “We get a piece of information that we don’t normally get if they were just coming to our clinics.

The healing environment is important, and you don’t even know what that is until you’re there,” he said.

“So we learn a lot around where people are storing

Baligh Yehia, MD, serves as Senior Vice President, Ascension, and President, Ascension Medical Group.

their medicines, who else is in the home, how the home is constructed, what the neighborhood looks like.”

Reverence calls us to honor every person we encounter. In Dr. Yehia’s words: “What better way to honor an individual than to come to them and truly meet them where they are?”

SUMMER 2021

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UP FRONT

Quality and safety as a differentiator DR. MOHAMAD FAKIH RECEIVES ASCENSION CLINICAL QUALITY AWARD

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hen leaders from Clinical & Network Services met in May, a major focus was how Ascension is grounding its clinical work in quality and safety as a differentiator. The meeting was also an occasion to celebrate Ascension’s successes in clinical quality and safety, and to honor a physician leader who has had a major role in that success.

At the meeting, Mohamad Fakih, MD, MPH, was recognized as the recipient of the inaugural Dr. David Pryor Quality Award. The award will be given annually to a clinician who represents the Ascension approach to quality, safety, research and clinical data, clinical protocols, and caregiver engagement and who exemplifies the highest quality and safety standards. It

is named for Ascension’s former Chief Clinical Officer, who retired in 2019.

During his time at Ascension, Dr. Pryor was a national leader in clinical safety and quality, benefiting millions of individuals in the communities Ascension serves.

“Mohamad’s contributions to our ministry have resulted in significant improvements in quality,” said Joseph Cacchione, MD, FACC, Executive Vice President, Clinical & Network Services, Ascension. “His work during the pandemic has not gone unnoticed, as he and his team have worked countless hours on the development of clinical guidance, processes and protocols that provided high-quality, safe and valued care to patients and communities.”

From left, Drs. Mohamad Fakih, David Pryor and Joseph Cacchione as Dr. Fakih receives the Dr. David Pryor Quality Award.

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“For me personally, it’s not only a privilege, but it’s actually a treat to be able to present the award to Mohamad,” Dr. Pryor said. “Mohamad and I have worked together for years.

He has been foundational to improving so much of the quality work that’s been done at Ascension. It’s clear that he’s not only the appropriate individual to receive the award, but he’s someone who I know shares the same passion that I do for quality, who exemplifies such servant leadership and who has taught me so much.”

Dr. Fakih has been part of Ascension for more than two decades and was named Chief Quality Officer, Clinical & Network Services, in 2020.

Dr. Fakih’s passion for quality and safety has resulted in numerous professional and educational appointments including serving as a member of the national CDC Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee, serving as Professor of Medicine at Wayne State University in Detroit, and authoring more than 70 peer-reviewed articles and more than 100 published abstracts.

“It was a complete surprise, but it’s a huge pleasure and joy for me,” Dr. Fakih said. “And it’s an honor to receive an award that has the name of Dr. David Pryor. I truly believe a lot of my work is not me; it’s the teams I work with. ... I still learn every day.

And what I love about all of them is that they work as one family with one goal; they don’t work in silos. And that’s the beauty of Ascension.”

UP FRONT

Good Day Ascension Our new, unified intranet is here.

The Good Day Ascension Intranet connects us like never before.

Find the essential information you need, all in one place.

• Quickly access resources important to you • Stay informed with the most up-to-date Ascension news • Celebrate colleagues and find new ways to collaborate

Easily navigate to your in-market site using the “My Ministry” dropdown

Explore the new site at GDAintranet.ascension.org Email us with questions at GDAintranet@ascension.org Scan here to access the new intranet on your mobile device.

Central point MINISTRY MARKETS BEGIN TRANSITION TO THE NEW GOOD DAY ASCENSION INTRANET

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his summer saw Ascension move closer to reaching a long-standing goal of uniting its disparate intranet sites into one unified platform. The Good Day Ascension Intranet launched in June to provide associates with a central place to access news, information and resources important to them.

“We learned so many valuable lessons during the pandemic, and one of them was the importance of consistent dialogue and communication,” said Nick Ragone, JD, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Ascension.

“This new platform will enable us to recognize colleagues, find new ways to collaborate and extend our Mission in meaningful ways.”

Associates will benefit from a new homepage allowing easy access to

news, events, and links to the tools and resources they need the most to support their daily work. Communities are a feature for associates who prefer to subscribe to content that’s specific to their role or interests. Additionally, a new app is in development for both Good Day Ascension and Ascension Medical Group that will provide even more ways to stay connected from a preferred device. Good Day Ascension Intranet will also be available to affiliated clinicians, allowing for

more consistent communication and feedback from our aligned physicians.

Although all associates can access the new Good Day Ascension homepage, Ascension Indiana will be the first Ministry Market to transition its existing intranet to the new platform.

Other Ministry Markets will follow throughout 2022.

For more information about the Good Day Ascension Intranet, email GDAintranet@ascension.org.

“ This new platform will enable us to recognize colleagues, find new ways to collaborate and extend our Mission in meaningful ways.”

— NICK R AGONE, JD, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF MARKETING

AND COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER, ASCENSION

SUMMER 2021

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UP FRONT

Above: from left, Salim Street, Director, Cardiac Rehabilitation and Ministry Identity Council member at Ascension Seton Hays; Joe Barry, Director, Ministry Formation, Ascension Texas; and Hays County Food Bank staff members Jessica Cruz and Matt Akins celebrate the nearly 500 pounds of food donated during Ascension Texas’ Mission Week food drive.

Left: Timm Glover, M.Div., Executive Vice President and Chief Mission Integration Officer, Ascension, provides a reflection during the Mission Week System-wide virtual prayer service.

Events brought us together MINISTRY EVENTS CELEBRATE OUR MISSION AND UNITE ASCENSION ASSOCIATES Across the country, Ascension found ways over the past few months to bring associates together to honor our Mission and celebrate our shared culture.

MISSION WEEK Mission Week was recognized in May with activities that encouraged all to reflect on our heritage and purpose. Associates were invited to share a word or phrase from our Mission that resonates with them on the Ascension Mission Week Kudoboard. From “rooted” to “advocates for a just and compassionate society,” entries demonstrated the depth and unity of our Mission.

A System-wide virtual prayer service that coincided with the Feast of the Ascension was another unifying element. The feast day has significance in the life of the Church, marking when Jesus ascended to heaven after his Resurrection and sent forth his disciples to continue his healing ministry. It is also the inspiration for the name of our healing ministry.

“At the Ascension of Jesus, we too are sent forth as one community rooted in the loving ministry of Jesus as healer,” Timm Glover, M.Div., Executive Vice President and Chief Mission Integration Officer, Ascension, said during the prayer service.

“May we take up this call to build a world free from sickness and oppression and to build a future full of hope. May we build this future courageously together.”

Market-specific events included food drives, food trucks, services, blessings of the hands and daily reflections.

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“ May we take up this call to build a world free from sickness and oppression and to build a future full of hope.”

— TIMM GLOVER, M.DIV., EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF MISSION INTEGR ATION OFFICER, ASCENSION

UP FRONT

ASCENSION VIRTUAL 5K For the second consecutive year, associates, loved ones, community members and four-legged friends participated in the Ascension Virtual 5K. The free event took place June 11-13, when participants ran, biked, walked, swam or paddled 3.1 miles, knowing there were others across Ascension doing the same thing, during the same time frame, for the same good cause: donations to funds supporting associates in times of hardship.

“We were thrilled to be able to provide this opportunity again this year,” said Deana Donovan, Organizational Development & Learning Consultant and Ascension Virtual 5K Coordinator. “Not only does it promote a healthy lifestyle, it’s also become a reflection of our hope and solidarity across Ascension.”

New this year, Ascension fitness experts designed an eight-week training plan to help people prepare for the event. They also held weekly sessions on topics such as injury prevention, nutrition and the mental side of running to get associates race ready.

Bill Mott, Chief Operating Officer, Ascension Macomb-Oakland Hospital in Michigan, was among those who attended the training sessions leading up to the event.

“I’ve been running for quite a long time, but before, it was all about going out, putting in the miles and getting done,” Bill said. “I really appreciated the comprehensive, holistic approach they took to these training sessions and the amount of time they gave for individual questions.”

“ We were thrilled to be able to provide this opportunity again this year. Not only does it promote a healthy lifestyle, it’s also become a reflection of our hope and solidarity across Ascension.”

— DEANA DONOVAN, ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT & LEARNING CONSULTANT AND ASCENSION VIRTUAL 5K COORDINATOR

Clockwise from top left: Scott Wehrle participates in the 5K at Ray Harral Nature Center in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; co-workers Jodi Juhre, left, and Karissa Rowe walk their 5K at a Milwaukee high school track; from left, Mark Johnson, Health Screener; Jill Strange, Patient/Guest Liaison; and her husband, Mike, from Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford in Murfressboro, Tennessee, share why they participated; Kesha Kent, National Diversity & Inclusion, Community Engagement-Talent Specialist, Ascension, left, and her daughter Alyssa, beat the heat to finish their 5K in St. Louis; Michelle Enriquez, left, and Glenda Prudencio complete the Ascension Virtual 5K.

SUMMER 2021

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UP FRONT

Good Day Ascension Newscast adds to family of communications channels THE MONTHLY NEWSCAST CONNECTS ASSOCIATES THROUGHOUT THE MINISTRY

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ssociates and community members across Ascension are getting more familiar with this friendly welcome: “Hello and thanks for joining us for Good Day Ascension News, a place to share stories from across our healing ministry. I’m Rosie Ford in St. Louis.”

“And I’m Candice Evans in Tulsa, Oklahoma.”

That’s how these members of the Marketing and Communications team introduce each episode of one of our newest communications channels, the Good Day Ascension Newscast.

The Good Day Ascension monthly newscast connects Ascension in a way like no other, to “show and tell” personal stories and updates from across our national ministry. The program also offers the opportunity to recognize colleagues, share new ways of collaborating, and amplify our message of hope and healing.

“This year has underscored the importance of communicating through storytelling about how our associates live out our Mission every day,” said Nick Ragone, JD, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Ascension. “The newscast has become a fun, innovative channel in which to share how associates are caring for each other and those that we’re privileged to serve.”

The Good Day Ascension Newscast has featured personal stories including

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one about a Kansas patient receiving therapy for a high-tech prosthetic arm and another on an Indiana man who volunteered for months several hours away from his home. Leaders also provide updates on topics such as vaccine distribution and System-wide initiatives such as ABIDE. “We want everybody to feel like we are one family,” said Candice Evans, Director of Marketing and Communications for Ascension St. John in Oklahoma. “When we report on caregivers saving a life in Texas, the associate watching might be in Florida, but they do the same job. They can relate.”

“It’s a labor of love that allows us to tell so many heartfelt stories that are worth sharing in a visual way,” said Heidi Suppelsa, Senior Director, Marketing and Communications, Ascension, who produces the Good Day Ascension Newscast.

The monthly Good Day Ascension Newscast shares stories and updates.

G O O D DAY A S C E N S I O N / A S C E N S I O N .O R G

The idea was under development several months before the COVID-19 pandemic. Then, as restrictions began to be lifted, the first newscast was produced last January, and several episodes have followed.

The process of producing the newscast involves setting up sound, video and “green screens” in studios in Tulsa and St. Louis, and using technology to achieve a near real-time connection between the two studios. Marketing and Communications teams in Ascension ministries work with Heidi and her team to gather the voices, videos and photos that bring stories to life.

To watch the latest Good Day Ascension Newscast, or share it on your social media channels, go to YouTube and search for “Good Day Ascension Newscast.”

UP FRONT

Fundraising through virtual engagement ASCENSION FOUNDATIONS CONTINUE TO RALLY SUPPORT DURING THE PANDEMIC PEYTON MANNING HOSTS GALA Ascension St. Vincent Foundation in Indianapolis The Ascension St. Vincent Foundation held its 14th annual Celebration of Caring Gala in support of Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at Ascension St. Vincent. Former NFL quarterback Peyton Manning hosted the event, which featured a musical performance by country music singer-songwriter Brad Paisley.

Sponsors and donors rose to the occasion and did their part at the virtual gala, with total fundraising exceeding $625,000.

“We saw many of our event sponsors step forward to support our annual event even though it took place in a virtual format. Our Mission is at the heart of our fundraising efforts, and I am grateful for the support we continue to see,” said Ann Haupt, Vice President, Ascension St. Vincent Foundation – Indiana.

Visit give.stvincent.org/PMCHgala for further details and to see a recording of the event.

Musician Brad Paisley and former NFL quarterback Peyton Manning during Ascension St. Vincent Foundation’s virtual Celebration of Caring Gala.

Weldon and Margaret Ratliff

TRANSFORMATIVE GIFT ADVANCES CARDIAC CARE Ascension Providence Foundation in Waco, Texas During a meeting with Jana Whitaker, Executive Director, Providence Foundation – Waco, Margaret and Weldon Ratliff expressed their sense of urgency to make a gift to inspire the community. The Ratliffs contributed $3.5 million to the Structural Heart Program at the F.M. & Gloria Young Heart Hospital in honor of Margaret’s parents, who were both patients at the facility.

Their gift will provide support for capital, programs and research, allowing Ascension Providence to modernize and expand its cardiac capabilities and remain at the forefront of advanced technology.

Communication with the Ratliffs began in person; however, due to COVID-19, meetings were held virtually.

Though faced with technical challenges, Jana and her colleagues were able to fully engage with them while navigating the virtual world.

“The gift highlighted the fact that even though we are experiencing the challenges of the pandemic, there are still needs, and our donors and community are eager to support our lifesaving work,” said Jana.

To learn more, visit supportprovidence.org.

SUMMER 2021

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UP FRONT

Resource library spreads best practices across Ascension ASSOCIATES CAN ACCESS VALUABLE PROCESSES, PROCEDURES AND PROTOCOLS

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2018, Ascension began looking at how clinical and business processes varied from market to market across the ministry. The goal was to identify best practices, then make it easier to share and spread those practices across Ascension.

Reviewers found that ”best practice” meant something different to various groups and that there was wide variation in how to identify and track best practices.

“We identified the need to reduce operational variation and make it easier for our Ministry Markets to identify and access best practices,” said Karen Springer, MSN, RN, Executive Vice President and Chief Nursing Executive, Ascension.

“We focused on creating a single platform with automated workflow, expiration and easy searching, along with a standardized process for documenting, submitting and sharing best practices; actionable metrics and tools to help communicate and achieve expected outcomes; and a monitoring process.”

Representatives from all Ministrywide Functions and Ministry Markets came together to develop a consistent process for documenting, submitting and sharing best practices. An Ascension Best Practice is a process, procedure or protocol that: • Addresses an identified problem or issue.

• Is based on evidence from literature

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and/or practice-based evidence or other existing data (as applicable).

• Produces an improvement in defined outcomes as measured by corresponding benchmarks, metrics and/or targets.

• Defines actions to achieve successful adoption.

• Is suitable for spread and adoption across Ascension.

The team worked with Ascension Technologies to develop the Ascension Best Practice Library, a repository of valuable information that could be made accessible to associates.

The Best Practice Library can include practices and processes in the areas of associate engagement, clinical/patient care, Finance, Human Resources, Legal, Marketing and Communications, Nursing, operations, clinician engagement, person and family engagement, technology, and other disciplines.

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Ministry Markets now can access the information in the Ascension Best Practice Library, and they can share their own best practices there as well.

To access the Best Practice Library: • Step 1: Go to the myAscension portal.

• Step 2: Enter the associate username and password you use regularly to log in.

• Step 3: Click on ”My Links.”

• Step 4: Click on “Connect & Learn” and under “Connect” click on the “Ascension Best Practice Site” link.

Associates and teams are encouraged to submit best practices for the library by logging in to the Ascension Best Practice Library portal, then going to the top right corner for the Help drop-down to access the Curriculum or Reference Guide. Example best practices will be shared periodically through Good Day Ascension online.

Good Day Ascension Our new, unified intranet is here.

The Good Day Ascension Intranet connects us like never before.

Find the essential information you need, all in one place.

• Quickly access resources important to you • Stay informed with the most up-to-date Ascension news • Celebrate colleagues and find new ways to collaborate

Easily navigate to your in-market site using the “My Ministry” dropdown

Explore the new site at GDAintranet.ascension.org Email us with questions at GDAintranet@ascension.org Scan here to access the new intranet on your mobile device.

PERSONAL PROFILE

Getting to know you TRACIE LOFTIS, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, MISSION INTEGRATION, ASCENSION

Q: How did you transition from social work to Mission Integration?

A: My journey has shown me that when you are going through change, things don’t necessarily make sense. But when you turn around and reflect on your path, you realize God was placing you and preparing you to be in the spot you are now.

I spent my first years at Ascension St. Vincent’s serving on the Behavioral Health unit caring for our patients.

During that time, I was encouraged to pursue a position as the executive director of one of our outreach ministries, a crisis pregnancy center. That role provided many learning opportunities for skills in operations, marketing and finance that would prove helpful. Eight years later, I moved back into hospital operations, leading our spiritual care team and programs that care for the poor.

Tracie Loftis who became Senior Vice President, Mission Integration, Ascension, in July 2020, has strong family ties to Ascension St. Vincent’s in Jacksonville, Florida, where she began her career 26 years ago. Her mother was a nursing student there, she met her husband there, and it’s where her daughter and granddaughter were born.

Q: How has your experience as a clinical social worker impacted your leadership?

A: Social work is about understanding people. No matter your leadership role, you are working with and leading people. My experience helped me learn to accompany someone in their work in a unique way.

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Q: How would you describe your approach to leadership?

A: What’s most important to me as a leader is to help grow and mentor individuals, encouraging them as they answer their own call.

I am blessed to have served when the Daughters of Charity were active in hospital operations and leadership. I had the opportunity to develop close relationships with several of them who taught me how to lead and helped shape my approach to ministry. I hope that I can bring this to the next generation.

Q: What roles does Mission Integration play in Ascension’s strategy?

A: Mission and strategy are partners in planning our organization’s future. Our Strategic Plan is both directing where we need to grow and ensuring that we are doing it in fidelity to who we are. If our strategy mirrors a secular system, then we have missed the opportunity to live out our identity as a ministry of the Church.

WELLNESS NOW

Challenge accepted FIND MEANING WITH THE PATH TO FULFILLMENT CHALLENGE

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othing compares to the inspiration that comes from a beautiful summer day. With warm sunshine, green leaves and a light breeze, who wouldn’t want to get outside and be active?

That’s why summer’s positivity makes it the perfect time to challenge yourself.

SmartHealth medical plan members can use that feeling as a catalyst toward contentment and join the step-based Path to Fulfillment Challenge.

PATH TO FU LFILLM E NT CHALLE NG E

On Aug. 16, Ascension is kicking off the Path to Fulfillment Challenge. For two weeks, find your happiness and your purpose by unlocking tips and resources on fulfillment by completing step milestones. Explore the characteristics of a life well lived by moving forward, figuratively and literally.

Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to reach your health goals this year by participating in this last challenge of 2021.

WHAT TO E XPECT

Are you ready to start on your Path to Fulfillment? Here is what you can expect from the journey.

• Set intentions — Discover what you were intended to do in life through resources provided at each checkpoint.

• Find purpose — Unearth your purpose and bring joy into your life with advice at every goal.

• Pursue passions — Find happiness in your passions with topics on fulfilling your dreams.

• Make connections — Work as a team and reach goals together through the power of perseverance.

HOW TO SIG N U P

Registration opens Aug. 9, a week before the challenge begins. Participants have two easy ways to sign up: • Via email: To access challenges, members/associates can click on the link from a challenge announcement email they receive from HR Central.

OR • Via member platform: Log in to the Virgin Pulse Platform (join.virginpulse.com/ smarthealthwellbeing), go to the “Social” tab and select “Challenges” from the toolbar to be taken to a link to register for the challenge.

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The Ascension Strategic INNOVATING TO MEET CHANGING CONSUMER NEEDS 16

G O O D DAY A S C E N S I O N / A S C E N S I O N .O R G

Keisha Boles, CPhT, Pharmacy Technician, Home Delivery, talks to visitors during an open house at the Ascension Rx Pharmacy Services Center.

T

Ascension Rx opens a national Pharmacy Services Center in Austin, Texas, to improve coordination and quality of care. This center links Ascension Rx sites across the System to meet the needs of patients and communities.

Plan

he coronavirus pandemic taught us a profound truth — that Ascension can do more, faster when we all work together.

To serve more people across our healing ministry, we want to strategically build on that collaborative spirit.

As a result, Ascension is accelerating our transformation to a more fully integrated health ministry that provides a wide variety of care services that meet consumers’ evolving preferences and expectations. Our goal is to deliver improved health outcomes for the individuals and communities we serve, with special attention to persons who are poor and vulnerable. That’s the “North Star” for our organization and the driver behind the new Ascension Strategic Plan.

“The Ascension Strategic Plan provides our organization with a System-wide blueprint for how we will deliver solutions within the healthcare industry’s rapidly changing consumer environment,” said Joseph R. Impicciche, JD, MHA, President and Chief Executive Officer, Ascension. “Through this plan, together we will build on the collective potential of our ministry to deliver on our Mission.”

The Ascension Strategic Plan guides our efforts in three key areas: • A mission-focused workforce, culture and infrastructure.

• An unwavering focus on value: quality, experience and affordability.

• A transformed care delivery model.

What is the benefit in creating a common strategic plan when ministries can have different circumstances and needs? Consumer trends reshaping healthcare are prevalent in every Ascension market. A unified approach will enable Ascension-wide programming for the strategies all markets need while enabling community-specific plans to cover the unique needs of the communities we serve.

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“ Our goal is to deliver improved health outcomes for the individuals and communities we serve, with special attention to persons who are poor and vulnerable. That’s the ‘North Star’ for our organization and the driver behind the new Ascension Strategic Plan.” — J O S E P H R . I M P I C C I C H E , J D , M H A , P R E S I D E N T A N D CHIEF E X ECU TI V E OFFICER , A SCENSION

The Ascension Strategic Plan addresses new opportunities as ministries focus on the needs of consumers for the highest quality of personalized care, exceptional convenience and more affordable costs.

The plan gains its strength from key elements of Ascension’s previous strategies since 2017, including the Advanced Strategic Direction, Mission-inspired Transformation, and last year’s Economic & Operational Recovery Strategy. It also builds on the lessons learned during the pandemic on how Ascension can move with agility and work together to address common needs in our individual markets through coordinated planning and execution.

CREATING AN UNRIVALED CONSUMER EXPERIENCE

At its core, the Ascension Strategic Plan applies the lessons of recent years to deliver a personalized, branded consumer experience that satisfies patients on every clinical and operational step of the continuum of care. Strategy-development teams have identified and prioritized the many ways in which consumers need our help as they navigate their healthcare journey.

Mia Cobb serves as a Patient Monitor at Ascension Indiana.

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“Healthcare is being influenced by other industries — as examples, consider the consumer experiences offered by restaurants and the travel industry,” said Eduardo Conrado, Executive Vice President, Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer, Ascension. “What we can learn from them is that consumers want quality — on-time service. They want convenience — online check-ins and payments. They want personalization — not having to provide personal details every time they reach out. And, naturally, they want low costs. These trends are inescapable.”

In addition, consumers want effortless and effective responses at every interaction. That applies across the board — from the initial call when a patient seeks a physician referral, to office visits, to post-treatment follow-ups, to paying for services.

“Our competitors are no longer simply other healthcare organizations,” said Craig Cordola, MBA, MHA, FACHE, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Ascension. “Our competitors include any company that is providing service in a better, more efficient or more customer-centric way than we are. Think about the ways many companies have innovated the ease of ordering — and fast, reliable delivery. That kind of consumerism is placing increased expectations on us as healthcare providers.

Patients expect easier access to results, quicker diagnostics and more real-time, online scheduling. Our patients are taking control of that experience when they can — and pressing us to create a much different patient experience with a lot less friction.”

Similarly, other trends reflect the changing dynamics of our industry. For example, many consumers need solutions when economic challenges surface, or other significant life changes occur, and their insurance coverages shift.

The Ascension Strategic Plan also addresses wide-ranging layers of complexity such as technology, data analytics and digital disruptions; care and payment-model innovation; a rapidly evolving marketplace via mergers, acquisitions and new partnerships; and COVID-related impacts.

The pandemic accelerated and escalated consumer

Ashley Dwyer, APRN, examines Evelyn Robinson, a participant in the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) at the Ascension Living HOPE medical clinic in Wichita, Kansas.

demands for innovation in healthcare services — particularly through technology solutions.

“Because of COVID-19, we have seen preferences shift from ‘high touch’ care to ‘touchless’ or ‘contact-less’ as virtual care became exceedingly popular,” said Eric Engler, Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff, Ascension. “Ascension telehealth visits skyrocketed last year as the pandemic largely shut down consumer demand for in-person visits with clinicians. The Ascension Strategic Plan acknowledges that digital solutions for care will continue to play a more prominent role for consumers in every Ministry Market.”

3 KEY AREAS: MISSION, VALUE, NEW CARE DELIVERY MODEL

The plan is comprehensive, and some facets may take up to three years before they are fully implemented. Here’s a breakdown of key highlights: 1. MISSION-FOCUSED WORKFORCE, CULTURE AND INFRASTRUCTURE

From the very beginning, Ascension has been dedicated to integrating our Mission and Catholic identity in all that we do. One primary element is continuing our ABIDE — Appreciation, Belongingness, Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity

Imperatives Imperativesand andkey keyareas areas Mission-focused workforce, culture and infrastructure

Unwavering focus on value: quality, experience and affordability

Transformed care delivery model

Mission and Catholic Identity integration

1

Optimized clinical enterprise

2

Enhanced footprint

3

Post-acute and at-home strategy

4

6

Robust IT, data and quality infrastructure

7

Talent and workforce integration

New economic model

5

Consumer-centric, flexible care delivery

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Ascension Sacred Heart Health Center at Summit in Pensacola, Florida, provides outpatient surgery; dermatology care; and diagnostic imaging services, including 3D mammography.

— obligations to foster a just and inclusive culture, which includes a diverse and empowered workforce.

“Guided by the ABIDE hallmarks, teams across Ascension are examining all aspects of the associate experience so that we can create a truly diverse, inclusive and equitable culture so that we can best serve the needs of our communities,” said Herb Vallier, Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, Ascension.

The Ascension Strategic Plan also scales up our external Mission obligations. We will engage in a coordinated and transformational approach to holistically caring for our communities, with special attention to those who are poor and vulnerable. Social determinants of health are crucial components in addressing a patient’s overall needs.

“Community engagement means the ability to listen deeply,” said Timm Glover, M.Div., Executive Vice President and Chief Mission Integration Officer, Ascension. “It means being able to understand the many needs — including financial and social barriers — that our patients have as they’re facing complex healthcare situations and understand those needs from the lived experiences and perspectives of those we are serving. Oftentimes it can be difficult for people to discuss other things that are going on in their lives such as their social needs. For example, they may need help with food, housing, transportation or paying for their medications.”

In support of this work, earlier this year Ascension began a relationship with a national social support platform to help address social determinants of health needs in Ascension communities. This relationship is launching in phases, with the first phase providing access to a free search engine Ascension calls Neighborhood Resources that identifies local community organizations available to assist with critical needs such as food insecurity, housing support and transportation, among others.

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2. UNWAVERING FOCUS ON VALUE: QUALITY, SAFETY, EXPERIENCE AND AFFORDABILITY

The plan makes clear the need for Ascension to lead with quality and safety — delivering improved health outcomes for the individuals and communities we serve.

“To create a strong culture of quality and safety we need a cohesive structure between nursing and physicians,” said Joseph Cacchione, MD, FACC, Executive Vice President, Clinical & Network Services, Ascension. “And then we have to measure ourselves and hold ourselves accountable. Once you do that, it becomes something you lead with and talk about freely. And then you start to build brand equity for Ascension around that commitment.”

The concept of improving healthcare quality extends beyond clinical support. It encompasses the entire consumer experience.

“The quality of care also has to be cost-effective for families,” said Karen Springer, MSN, RN, Executive Vice President and Chief Nursing Executive, Ascension. “As insurance coverages change, many of our patients are having to pay more for their own care.”

“ To create a strong culture of quality and safety we need a cohesive structure between nursing and physicians. And then we have to measure ourselves and hold ourselves accountable. Once you do that, it becomes something you lead with and talk about freely. And then you start to build brand equity for Ascension around that commitment.” — J O S E P H C A C C H I O N E , M D , FA C C , E X E C U T I V E V I C E P R E S I DE N T, C L I N IC A L & N E T W OR K S E R V IC E S , A S C E N S IO N

Part of addressing consumers’ cost concerns is the plan’s responsible and intentional transition from traditional fee-forservice models to new payment models. Team-based care will combine with value-based reimbursement, which is linked to patient health outcomes, to reinforce and create incentives for meeting consumer and insurer expectations.

“There’s widespread recognition in the healthcare industry that innovative value-based care models can lead to improved outcomes. It’s in everyone’s best interest to have demonstrably healthier patients,” said Elizabeth Foshage, CPA, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Ascension. “A value-based approach encourages clinical and operational leaders to collaborate in developing innovative solutions like providing medical services remotely or supporting patients with care and programs that reduce the likelihood of expensive hospital stays.”

Consumers can also expect healthcare convenience and value from initiatives that the Ascension Strategic Plan will drive and expand in coming months. These include: • Ascension Rx — a relatively new business unit that is establishing service lines in specialty pharmacy, retail pharmacy, infusion and pharmacy benefit management.

• Integrated efforts for the post-acute and at-home continuum of care — each Ministry Market will provide higher-quality, more convenient and lower-cost care to patients, while enhancing consumer loyalty and our brand.

Our recent advances in providing telehealth and remote monitoring solutions for patient data will play a large role in the growth of at-home care.

• Ambulatory surgical centers, imaging facilities, urgent care clinics and labs — enabling patients to get easy access to high-quality services without visiting a hospital.

3. TRANSFORMED CARE-DELIVERY MODEL

The heightened emphasis on team-based care will enable Ascension to enhance support for and coordination of each patient’s healthcare journey. That will be augmented by

creating focused care-delivery platforms for specific population segments, such as seniors. In addition, we will expand sites of care to ensure we have the right assets deployed in each market to deliver high-quality services in the locations where our consumers need us most.

MOVING FORWARD

As the many elements of the Ascension Strategic Plan launch, Detroit and Indianapolis were selected as the trailblazing markets to initially launch the full suite of initiatives identified in the plan. Their experiences in rolling out and analyzing initiatives will provide lessons for the rest of Ascension as programs expand to all markets.

“Providing a consistent experience to consumers — regardless of the market — is at the heart of our unified brand and integrated marketing approach,” said Nick Ragone, JD, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Ascension. “By succeeding in delivering a high-quality end-to-end experience, we know that Ascension will create an affinity for our ministry and build brand loyalty among patients, their families and friends.”

HOW WILL THE ASCENSION STRATEGIC PLAN BENEFIT AND AFFECT ASSOCIATES?

As the plan unfolds, associates will see and experience a greater focus on caring for all people. They will see patients who respond favorably to the more personalized approach to engaging with them at every step of their experience with us. And they will continue to see agile responses to opportunities and threats as we increase the speed and effectiveness of providing compassionate, personalized care to every Ascension patient.

“We believe having one plan everyone can execute against will not only accelerate our transformation but also allow us to quickly adapt to continuing change as an integrated ministry,” said Joe Impicciche. “As we put our plans into action, we’re excited about the future of our shared ministry.”

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ABIDE across Ascension FOSTERING A CULTURE OF DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

S

ince its launch in the summer of 2020, our ABIDE framework has helped Ascension create opportunities for conversation and engagement around Appreciation, Belongingness, Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity — reaching more associates and informing ministry initiatives and functional areas.

COUNCILS AMPLIFY PROGRESS

Through ABIDE Councils, Ascension is bringing to life the ABIDE framework by ensuring its integration and alignment with the Ascension Strategic Plan, Mission and Values within every area of the ministry.

Ministry Markets, Ministry-wide Functions and subsidiaries have each established their own ABIDE Councils and appointed an ABIDE Council Lead.

Within this structure, the ABIDE Council Leads serve as point people to engage associates with ABIDE-related initiatives and resources while also serving as representatives on the System-wide ABIDE Collaborative, a group of about 20 individuals from across the ministry.

ABIDE Council Leads have invited associates to volunteer on their

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councils to help encourage and engage fellow associates in ongoing listening and sharing of their voices and viewpoints.

“The hallmarks of the ABIDE framework — Appreciation, Belongingness, Inclusivity, Diversity and Equity — are the fulfillment of Ascension’s commitment to social justice, particularly for the most vulnerable,” said Pamela Mitchell-Boyd, ABIDE Director, Ascension, who is working to identify and coordinate opportunities for the alignment of ABIDE-related efforts across the ministry. “The ABIDE framework is helping us examine what we need to do to reshape our perspectives on policies and practices that may, consciously or unconsciously, perpetuate disparities and inequities in our ministries.” Pam, who assumed this newly created role last spring,

previously served AMITA Health as the System Director for Diversity, Inclusion & Language Services.

EXPANDING LISTENING TO GIVE VOICE

ABIDE held a series of Dialogue Sessions with associates willing to have candid conversations to gather ideas to take action on some of the most common themes raised by associates during last fall’s ABIDE Listening Sessions. In each confidential session, associates were asked a series of questions, including: “What should Ascension stop doing, start doing or continue doing to improve inclusivity, diversity and equity at Ascension?”

As part of the ABIDE framework’s intentional effort and ongoing guidance to Listen - Pray - Learn - Act, all associates are being invited to share their perspectives as part of

“ The hallmarks of the ABIDE framework ... are the fulfillment of Ascension’s commitment to social justice, particularly for the most vulnerable.”

— PAMELA MITCHELL-BOYD, ABIDE DIRECTOR, ASCENSION

G O O D DAY A S C E N S I O N / A S C E N S I O N .O R G

Bilal Ahmed, left, a manager with Ascension Transformation Management, and Christine Salm-Little, an educator with the Ascension Wisconsin Employee Assistance Program, share their life experiences using the ABIDE framework.

the Associate Experience Survey, a System-wide survey aligned with the ABIDE hallmarks designed to obtain a baseline measure of inclusion and experience related to the ABIDE framework.

GETTING INVOLVED

There are many ways to share your story or get involved with ABIDE. • ABIDE Council: Talk to your manager about getting involved with ABIDE in your ministry.

• ABIDE Microsite: Review the resources and have conversations with your peers and team members at abide.ascension.org.

• ABIDE Listening Form: Use the Share Your Story Google Form located on the ABIDE site to share an experience or story anonymously.

• ABIDE Listening Line: Call a tollfree number (833-979-2949), available 24/7, and record your story anonymously.

• ABIDE Contact Form: Use the contact form located on the ABIDE site to ask a question or share a comment about ABIDE. • ABIDE Email Inbox: Email your comment, question, experience or story to ABIDE@ascension.org.

SHARING ABIDE STORIES

The ABIDE framework has helped encourage associates to share personal stories and experiences. Their stories are part of ABIDE’s ongoing “My Whole Self” series featured in the monthly ABIDE e-news. These stories and more can be found on the internal ABIDE microsite: abide.ascension.org.

Christine Salm-Little, an educator with the Ascension Wisconsin Employee Assistance Program, said she considers it a privilege to work for an organization where she can show up at work as her whole self.

“The freedom to be authentic and to feel valued makes me want to work even harder to do my best work for my team and for Ascension,’’ Christine said. Christine’s connection of authenticity and productivity is aligned with national findings. One Harvard Business Review study linked the expression of authenticity with greater job satisfaction, engagement and performance. “My input about issues surrounding equality and inclusion is always welcome within our team,” Christine said. “Because my input is valued, I feel empowered to create content and training that promotes inclusivity and shows associates and clients that we truly value diversity.”

Bilal Ahmed, a Chicago-based manager with Ascension Transformation Management who has been with Ascension for nearly two years, said he experienced a powerful sense of community with his team by sharing about his Muslim faith and observation of Ramadan. Since fasting often isn’t observable, Bilal said he tends to keep the practice of fasting to himself during Ramadan but is happy to share about it when asked. So Bilal said he was thrilled when his manager proactively asked him about Ramadan and how he was managing through it.

“I would have simply kept working without saying anything,” Bilal said. “My manager brought it up after doing research on Ramadan and paying attention to the unique needs of his team.” Bilal shared his Ramadan experience not only with his manager but also with his broader team in the form of a reflection. Bilal’s team was so moved by his Ramadan reflection and experience that they decided to show support by fasting too — a gesture that brought a tight-knit group even closer.

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Home sweet home

HOME-BASED PRIMARY CARE MAKES A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF PATIENTS AND CLINICIANS

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klahoman Vilda Fletcher, 82, is old enough to remember when her family’s doctor made home visits during her childhood. She never thought she would receive the same type of care as a senior.

“I grew up in the day when we had house calls,” Vilda said.

“The care was so personal then, and that’s what’s great about the care I’m receiving now. I feel like I’m not just a number, but a person.”

Home-based primary care (HBPC) is quickly making a comeback in the U.S. after a decline in the 20th century.

While 40% of all U.S. medical care in 1930 occurred in the home, by 1950 the number had dropped to 10%, and to only 0.6% of all patient encounters by 1980, as reported by the National Institutes of Health.

But as more healthcare systems look for enhanced ways to care for populations, expansion of care away from the

“ Being in the home brings a holistic approach to the care you provide. You can evaluate their home environment. You can identify risks and help to develop better care plans for them based on their circumstances.”

— M E L I S S A M O N T G O M E R Y , A P R N - C N P, A S C E N S I O N M E D I C A L G R O U P S T . J O H N

acute-care setting accompanied by increased use of programs such as home visits is gaining momentum, including across Ascension.

Several Ascension Ministry Markets, including Ascension St. John in Oklahoma, have adopted HBPC models as a way to meet the needs of medically frail/complex patients. This includes patients with a chronic condition that may be poorly controlled or those with limited daily living function and/or multiple complex conditions.

“Home-based primary care is centered on in-home visits by clinicians for advanced illness, end-of-life care, or patients who are homebound and immobile, supplemented by digital tools to enable remote patient monitoring and telehealth,” said Baligh Yehia, MD, MPP, FACP, Senior Vice President, Ascension, and President, Ascension Medical Group. “This type of care exemplifies our Mission of truly serving our most vulnerable.”

Some Ascension patients and families have said that this type of care is just what they needed.

Bruce and Susan Crawford’s 42-year-old son, Jimmy, is one of Ascension St. John’s HBPC beneficiaries. After being left quadriplegic following a motor vehicle accident, Susan said, Jimmy is significantly immunocompromised and immobile, making traditional doctor visits challenging.

“When COVID-19 hit, we were terrified to take Jimmy in to see his doctor,” Susan said. “Home visits gave us peace of mind in knowing we were protecting him.”

Melissa Montgomery, APRN-CNP, Ascension Medical Group St. John, said Jimmy was the perfect candidate for HBPC. Melissa and five additional clinicians have completed more than 500 home visits since AMG St. John launched its HBPC model in September 2017.

“Patients who are at high risk should be considered for home visits to minimize exposure to other patients and healthcare workers in the clinic setting,” Melissa said. “While virtual care can be a great option for many, special consideration should be given to those patients who still need to be physically examined. There is nothing like being able to listen to a patient’s heart, listen to their lungs.”

For the Crawfords, this has been a major benefit. “Jimmy gets as good care here at home as he would in the office,

if not better,” Susan said. “By [him] being able to remain in bed, Melissa can examine him more thoroughly than in his wheelchair.”

Shawna Pidge, Vilda Fletcher’s daughter, has also seen the value of home visits.

“I am always concerned about transporting Mom to the doctor,” Shawna said. “With her severe arthritis, I know it’s painful and scary for her because she is at high risk for falling.”

Being able to see patients in their home environment can also provide key insights that may be preventing patients from having better outcomes, Melissa said.

“Being in the home brings a holistic approach to the care you provide,” she said. “You can evaluate their home environment.

You can identify risks and help to develop better care plans for them based on their circumstances.”

For the Crawfords and Vilda and Shawna, they couldn’t imagine care any other way.

“I’m hoping this [care model] becomes more of the norm,” Vilda said. “I actually get emotional thinking about it. Melissa is such a blessing, and she has really made me feel special.”

For Melissa, the feeling is mutual.

“I feel so grateful that I’m able to live out my own personal mission statement,” she said. “This is what God has called me to do.”

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By your side ED PEER SUPPORT PROGRAM ACROSS ASCENSION

J

ulie Doniere, MD, and the staff at an Ascension Wisconsin Emergency Department did everything possible to save the life of an expectant mother. Unfortunately, the case had a devastating and tragic outcome.

The following day, Dr. Doniere received an email from an Ascension Emergency Medicine colleague from another ministry in another state.

She didn’t know the person but soon learned that someone on her team had made a referral to the ED Provider Associate Care Team (PACT) out of concern for her.

“I didn’t know I needed the support,” said Dr. Doniere, a 25-year veteran, “but I did. I was the elder physician on the case and felt my role was to support my staff. It was wonderful to know that someone on my team wanted to support me.”

The PACT peer supporter and Dr. Doniere talked through the difficult case a few days later.

“All of us in emergency medicine are constantly immersed in stress and cannot let that affect our next patient,” she said. “We see very traumatic experiences all the time and tend to just keep moving.”

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LISTENING AND VALIDATING

“Even before the pandemic, we knew that mental health and ED wellness was very important. We see the most tragic, unpredictable and terrifying conditions that can happen to human beings,” said Allison Bollinger, MD, Vice President, Emergency Services, Ascension. “Time was of the essence to be there for our colleagues.”

Beth Griffin, MD, President, Emergency Medicine Specialists, and Renee Sharp, MBA, MSN, RN, CEN, Director, Performance Excellence, Ascension, understood the urgent need for peer support for Ascension ED associates.

In a few months’ time and with support throughout Ascension, an ED service line PACT program was introduced earlier this year. Darryl Jordan and Brenda Kramer, associates who introduced Ascension’s PACT program in 2014, proved to be the

most important resource. Ascension’s PACT program has become the largest program of its type in the U.S., training thousands of clinicians and supporters who want to implement or be part of a peer-to-peer emotional support program.

“ As a system, we need to continue to remind each other that if we don’t care for ourselves, keep our bodies and minds healthy, we can’t be there for our patients.”

— ALLISON BOLLINGER, MD, VICE PRESIDENT, EMERGENCY SERVICES, ASCENSION

G O O D DAY A S C E N S I O N / A S C E N S I O N .O R G

Feeling burned o Struggling? Rough

Collea

Feeling burned out?

Here for you...

Struggling?

ED Peer Support Feeling burned out? Struggling?

Rough shift?

Feeling burned out?

Colleague needs help?

Here for you... team ED Peer Support ED Peer Support

ED Peer Support team Reach out to an ED friend!

Reach out to an ED friend!

Peer supporters create a safe, Peer supporters create a safe, confidential space that allows colleagues to debrief and the confidential space that allows supporter to listen, acknowledge and provide encouragement. colleagues to debrief and the supporter to listen, acknowledge Scan this code or visit ascn.io/EDPeerSupport to fill out aencouragement. short form. A friend will be by your and provide side within 24 hours.

Debriefing with a friend is not a weakness. It is a strength and will help you maintain your health! Ask for yourself or refer a colleague.

@ Ascension 2021. All rights reserved. 607078

Scan this code visit Scan thisor code or visit asc ascn.io/EDPeerSupport filla short out form. a short form. A f to to fill out A friend will be by your side within 24 hours. side within 24 hours.

“We have a phenomenal network of physician and nurse leaders representing every Ascension ED created through the ED Optimization Team. Through the structure that is in place, we are able to reach every front-line ED clinician within Ascension,” said Dr. Griffin. “We challenged Darryl and Brenda to redesign PACT peer supporter training virtually and to help us make this program System-wide, virtual, service line specific — and quickly!”

When the first call went out for volunteers, 32 physicians, nurses and chaplains from across Ascension

participated in virtual training and now stand ready to provide support to their peers in need.

“The PACT peer support training helps volunteers understand that they are not professional counselors,” said Renee. “Our role is to listen and validate feelings. We are here for co-workers as friends, and, if needed, offer additional resources.”

Referrals are completely confidential.

A peer supporter will reach out within 24 hours.

“If you are sincerely worried about a colleague who had a rough shift, or notice that someone isn’t acting right,

Debriefing with a friend is not a weakness. It is a maintain your health! Ask for yourself or refer a c a referral is the best thing you can do,” said Renee. “If you need to talk to someone, you can also reach out for yourself.” @ Ascension 2021. All rights reserved.

607078 “As a system, we need to continue to remind each other that if we don’t care for ourselves, keep our bodies and minds healthy, we can’t be there for our patients. The old way of thinking of working ourselves to the bone, never stopping, round at all hours of the day, has gone by the wayside,” said Dr. Bollinger. “We know the need is there and continue to see more and more referrals.”

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A

Re-envisioning oncology care ASCENSION’S NEW VISION FOR THE ONCOLOGY SERVICE LINE BEGINS BY ALIGNING WITH THE LATEST NATIONAL SCREENING GUIDANCE TO PROVIDE FIRST-CLASS CANCER CARE

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scension’s Oncology Service Line, led by Thomas Aloia, MD, Vice President, National Oncology Director, Ascension, is advancing a vision to provide the highest value to all patients through a best-in-class and multidisciplinary cancer program. This vision is backed by three tenets that also align with the recently developed Ascension Strategic Plan: • Data: Analyze and collect data System-wide to improve patient value.

• Care coordination: Work in harmony across the care continuum to optimize patient experience.

• Research: Align and contribute to the latest cancer research and recommendations.

Through this comprehensive approach, the Oncology Service Line aims to provide the highest value to patients with an emphasis on functional recovery, with Ascension sites becoming the best place to give and receive cancer care.

As part of this vision, Ascension is committed to aligning with the latest national guidance for screenings and treatment to deliver compassionate, personalized care. In the spring, Ascension updated its screening recommendations for two of the most commonly diagnosed cancers — colorectal and lung. Each year, the U.S. has more than 147,000 new cases of colon/rectal cancer and nearly 229,000 new cases of lung cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute. Early detection of both of these cancers is key to preventing further spread and increasing survival rates.

“ By providing a plan of action that caters to our patients’ needs from screening guidance to treatment protocols, we can deliver compassionate care with a purpose.

In turn, this can inspire our patients and their families to have hope during trying times.” — T H O M A S A L O I A , M D , V I C E P R E S I D E N T , N A T I O N A L O N C O L O G Y D I R E C T O R , A S C E N S I O N

Dr. Thomas Aloia

“Preventive care such as screenings is critical in detecting cancer in its earliest stages,” Dr. Aloia said. “By engaging in early discussions around screenings with our patients, we have the opportunity to better identify patients who may be at risk for developing cancer. These important conversations can lead to care plans that can keep our patients healthy now and into the future.”

COLORECTAL CANCER SCREENING RECOMMENDATIONS

For colorectal cancer, the Oncology Service Line Council — made up of experts in primary care, prevention, oncology nursing and other cancer care clinicians — now recommends that patients begin shared decision-making discussions with their doctor about colorectal screenings starting at age 45 and continuing through age 75.

People with a personal and/or family history of colorectal cancer or adenomas, inflammatory bowel disease, or certain genetic syndromes may require earlier or more intensive screening. Other risk factors for colorectal cancer outside of age include being overweight, physical inactivity, diabetes, diets high in red or processed meats, smoking, or heavy alcohol use.

LUNG CANCER SCREENING RECOMMENDATIONS

For current or former smokers age 50 to 80 who smoked 20 pack-years or more and either continue to smoke or have quit within the past 15 years, the Oncology Service Line Council recommends they discuss with their doctor annual lung cancer screening using low-dose CT scans.

For current smokers or former smokers who do not meet the smoking and age criteria but are deemed to be at high risk of developing lung cancer, it is also recommended they begin shared decision-making conversations with their doctor about screening guidance. Additional risk factors such as a family history of lung cancer, race, sex and a personal history of cancer should be considered when counseling about screening.

“As one of the largest health systems in the U.S., we have a tremendous opportunity to enhance oncology care at the population level,” Dr. Aloia said. “By developing innovative care models, collaborating with clinicians across Ascension and keeping in step with our Mission — to provide compassionate, personalized care to all, especially those most in need — we can shape cancer care nationally.”

WITH A PLAN, COMES HOPE

With a wealth of expertise as a physician executive and deep knowledge of oncology and the issues facing the discipline, Dr. Aloia is helping to bring the Oncology Service Line’s vision to life.

“My personal motto is ‘with a plan, comes hope,’” Dr. Aloia said. “This motto aligns with our vision and the work our oncology clinicians do every day. By providing a plan of action that caters to our patients’ needs from screening guidance to treatment protocols, we can deliver compassionate care with a purpose. In turn, this can inspire our patients and their families to have hope during trying times.

“Collaboration will also be key in moving us closer to becoming a first-class cancer care provider,” Dr. Aloia said.

“As we look to the future, clinical leaders at the System and market level will need to continue to work together to develop common standards of care while emphasizing functional recovery, which provides physical and cognitive rehabilitation for those who underwent cancer treatment. By working together, we can become more than just our patients’ oncology provider, but their partner in their healthcare journey — before, during and after treatment.”

Prior to joining Ascension in January 2021, Dr. Aloia served as Chief Quality Officer and Head of the Institute of Cancer Care Innovation at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, having served in multiple administrative roles in the areas of patient safety, quality and outcomes.

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ALABAMA

Healthcare hero event Ascension St. Vincent’s healthcare heroes joined more than 39,000 caregivers from eight other health systems across greater Birmingham in wearing matching T-shirts to demonstrate their unwavering commitment to their patients and communities throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hospital chosen as business of the year Ascension St. Vincent’s Chilton was selected by the Chilton County Chamber of Commerce as its 2020 Distinguished Business of the Year in recognition of continuous exceptional service to the people of Chilton County and central Alabama.

American Hospital Association honor Ascension St. Vincent’s St. Clair was honored for 50 years of membership in the American Hospital Association (AHA).

“The AHA thanks the staff and leadership of the hospital for the care and services they provide each day to their patients and communities,” said AHA Regional Executive Rebecca Jolley.

BALTIMORE

Adopting unified brand The Baltimore Ministry Market began implementing the unified Ascension brand.

Work is underway to position the market as Ascension Saint Agnes this summer.

Blue Distinction® Centers+ designation for Bariatric Surgery, and the Laboratory received the Gold Seal of Approval from The Joint Commission. The Commission on Cancer granted three-year reaccreditation to the cancer program at Lourdes Regional Cancer Center, and the Lourdes Breast Care Center received a three-year accreditation from the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers.

FLORIDA AND GULF COAST

Robotic technology detects cancer Doctors at Ascension St. Vincent’s in Jacksonville, Florida, use robotic-assisted bronchoscopy to detect lung cancer earlier and in hard-to-detect places.

The procedure uses minimally invasive technology that improves accuracy and precision; patients also experience less pain and a quicker recovery.

Second freestanding ED Ascension Sacred Heart opened its second freestanding Emergency Department in Navarre, Florida. It features a helipad and a separate waiting area and treatment rooms for children. The facility includes 13 treatment rooms and two trauma rooms staffed by emergency medicine physicians, nurses and respiratory therapists; a lab; a CT scanner; and X-ray imaging.

Governor recognizes associates COVID-19 vaccination program leaders Dawn O’Neill, Arif Khazi and Neleen Orsal, APRN, received citations from Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan for their work directing vaccination outreach to the Korean American community.

BINGHAMTON, NEW YORK

Hospital accreditations Lourdes Hospital was recognized by Excellus BlueCross BlueShield with a

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Shockwave device opens arteries Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola in Florida is using a tiny lithotripsy-style device to open hardened, narrowed heart arteries. This shockwave technology uses sonic pressure to break up calcifications that restrict blood flow to the heart.

ILLINOIS

Hospitals recognized for maternity care Seven AMITA Health hospitals in Chicagoland have been recognized by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois with a Blue Distinction® Centers+ for Maternity Care designation as part of the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program.

Helping combat child hunger AMITA Health has partnered with Chicago-based Advocatia Solutions to offer free assistance in accessing federal, state and local programs to help the children of its communities get the food they need, including the Children’s Health Insurance Program; the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program; and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children.

Grant provides follow-up care Aetna Better Health of Illinois awarded a two-year, $250,000 grant to AMITA Health to establish a patient navigation Ascension St. Vincent’s St. Clair is recognized for 50 years of membership in the American Hospital Association.

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Ascension Indiana hospitals worked to alleviate childhood hunger. Pictured: Christina Crank, BSN, RN, Administrator/ Chief Nursing Officer, Ascension St. Vincent Jennings; Dana Muntz, BSN, RN, Vice President, Rural Healthcare, Ascension St. Vincent; and Joni Muchler, Nutrition Director, West Washington School Corporation.

program to address health-related social needs of patients with substance-use disorders after they receive inpatient or emergency care at AMITA Health Saints Mary and Elizabeth Medical Center Chicago. Navigators will help patients stick to their recovery plans by assisting with barriers such as housing instability, food insecurity or lack of transportation.

INDIANA

First IVL procedure completed The first intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) procedure in the state was completed at the Ascension St. Vincent Heart Center.

This relatively new procedure transforms standard balloon technology into a calcium-disruption tool while minimizing trauma to the coronary artery wall.

Hospitals make ‘World’s Best’ list Three Ascension St. Vincent hospitals were named as 2021 World’s Best Hospitals by Newsweek and Statista, Inc. Ascension St. Vincent Heart Center was one of five U.S. hospitals specializing in cardiology and the only specialty hospital in Indiana to make the list. Ascension St. Vincent Carmel and Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis were also listed for infection prevention measures.

Bariatric Center recognized The Ascension St. Vincent Bariatric Center was recognized by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield with a Blue Distinction® Centers for Bariatric Surgery designation as part of the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program.

Perinatal Level II designation Ascension St. Vincent Fishers received both obstetric and neonatal Level of Care II designation from the state Department of Health, which denotes it is equipped to provide care for appropriate high-risk maternal patients and special care to infants who are moderately ill with problems expected to resolve rapidly.

Hospitals work to alleviate child hunger To address food insecurity, Ascension St. Vincent collaborated with No Kid Hungry on a three-year school breakfast program.

Ascension St. Vincent Evansville and the Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation worked together, through a grant, to buy new breakfast carts, which were placed in high-traffic areas for students to access grab-and-go breakfast items as they arrive at school. Ascension St. Vincent Salem supported the West Washington School Corporation, buying coolers to store food and facilitate its transport to classrooms. These programs

reduced barriers and created environments where all students were able to easily access a healthy breakfast.

Associates volunteer at food bank Ascension Medical Group St. Vincent associates volunteered at Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana in Indianapolis, assembling and loading boxes of food into the vehicles of more than 2,000 individuals in need. The associates have a long history of volunteering at local food banks in Marion County. During 2019 and 2020, they contributed a total of 415 service hours to various food banks.

KANSAS

Mental health awareness Ascension Via Christi launched a mental health and suicide prevention campaign with the help of a $100,000 Kohl’s Cares grant. It includes partnering with Wichita State University to make its Suspenders4Hope online suicide awareness and prevention program available at no cost to the community; producing “Cause for Hope,” a public television series featuring Ascension Via Christi child and adolescent psychiatrist Larry Mitnaul, MD; and sponsoring “Mental Wellness Moment” spots featuring community leaders and influencers offering messages of hope and support on the local CBS affiliate.

Sterile Processing leaders earn award Robbi Pierce-Sawyers and Richard Kavanaugh, who lead the Sterile Processing department at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis in Wichita, earned Gold Crown Certification by the International Association of Healthcare Service Central Material Management, the organization’s highest level of training and certification.

Pediatric therapy gym opens Ascension Via Christi in Manhattan opened a new pediatric therapy gym. The

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gym features a suspended swing, a sensory experience room, interactive video game rehab, private therapy rooms and a weight-supported walking system.

MICHIGAN

Holistic birth suite opens Ascension Borgess Holistic Birthing Suite in Kalamazoo now offers an option for women who desire minimal medical intervention in their labor and birth and have a low-risk pregnancy.

Cancer center opening The Ascension Medical Group Borgess Cancer Center in Kalamazoo is on track to open in September 2021.

Advanced radio frequency technology The GI Interventional Program at Ascension St. John Hospital in Detroit acquired a radio frequency generator system to treat benign tumors, advanced cancers and tissue in the gastrointestinal tract.

Cardiac service expands Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital opened a state-of-the-art catheterization lab and an expanded congestive heart failure clinic.

Surgery broadcast live Nishit Choksi, MD, broadcast a surgery from Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital treating a patient’s severely calcified coronary lesions. The case helped train physicians across the U.S., as well as France, Spain, Germany and the Netherlands.

three-year accreditation from the Commission on Cancer as an Academic Comprehensive Cancer Program from the American College of Surgeons.

Associates create wig room Cancer patients can help their self-esteem during treatments at Ascension St. Mary’s Hospital Health Center at Towne Centre thanks to a wig room created and funded by associates.

Associates honored with award The Ascension St. Joseph Foundation’s 2021 Spirit of St. Joseph Award honors associates and clinicians who gave compassionate care to patients and families during the pandemic. “The Ascension St. Joseph team stepped up time and time again,” said Shane Hunt, Administrator, Ascension St. Joseph Hospital.

Top 100 honor Ascension St. Joseph Hospital was named one of the Top 100 Rural & Community Hospitals in the U.S. by The Chartis Center for Rural Health. The hospital has been named to the list for six consecutive years.

Hospitals receive excellence awards Professional Research Consultants recognized Ascension Standish Hospital with two 5-Star awards for Overall Hospital

Best maternity hospitals Ascension Borgess Hospital and Ascension River District Hospital made Newsweek’s list of Best Maternity Hospitals 2021.

Cancer program earns accreditation The cancer program at Ascension Genesys Hospital in Grand Blanc achieved

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Care in the inpatient and acute care units and Ascension St. Joseph Hospital with a 4-Star award for Overall Quality of Care in the Emergency Department.

OKLAHOMA

Hospital named top 100 Ascension St. John Jane Phillips was named one of the Top 100 Rural & Community Hospitals in the U.S. This is the fourth consecutive year it has received the designation and it’s one of only two Oklahoma hospitals on the 2021 list.

Best maternity hospital listing Ascension St. John Owasso was recognized by The Leapfrog Group as one of the organization’s best maternity hospitals in 2021. The hospital meets Leapfrog’s standards for safety and quality in maternity care, including low rates of early elective deliveries, Caesarean sections and more.

Cardiologist named to 40 under 40 list Ascension St. John cardiologist Heather Cha, MD, FACC, was selected for Oklahoma Magazine’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2021. The annual selection honors young professionals who go beyond their regular work to improve their communities.

The Ascension St. Joseph Foundation honors associates and clinicians with the 2021 Spirit of St. Joseph Award.

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empowers them to return home or step down to a lower level of care.

Advance addresses chest pain Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital West began offering intracoronary brachytherapy, a procedure that helps reduce chest pain in patients with stents that have re-narrowed and reduces the chance of them narrowing again in the future.

TEXAS Dr. Heather Cha, a cardiologist at Ascension St. John, was named to Oklahoma Magazine’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2021.

TENNESSEE

Hospitals welcome president Shubhada Jagasia, MD, MMHC, joined Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital (Midtown and West) as President.

Dr. Jagasia most recently served at Vanderbilt University Medical Center as the Chief of Staff for Adult Hospital and Ambulatory Clinics. Prior to that role, she was Medical Director of the Eskind Diabetes Clinic and then the Vice Chair of Clinical Affairs for the Department of Medicine at Vanderbilt.

Partnership helps vaccine accessibility Ascension Saint Thomas worked with Nashville’s Metropolitan Development and Housing Agency to provide the COVID-19 vaccine through its Mobile Health Unit. The bus made stops at public housing complexes so eligible residents could receive the vaccine.

Behavioral Health Hospital opens Ascension Saint Thomas Behavioral Health Hospital opened in March and provides inpatient care for adults 18 and older. Clinical programs help patients achieve a level of stabilization that

Five-time excellence award Ascension Seton Highland Lakes received its fifth designation as a Pathway to Excellence® organization from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. It earned redesignation and was given an outstanding score related to accessibility of nurse managers to direct care staff and nurse managers who advocate for patients.

Acute care unit receives Beacon award Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin 4 North Pulmonary/Renal Unit was awarded Beacon silver level recognition for excellence in patient care. The Beacon award for excellence from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses recognizes caregivers in stellar units whose consistent and systematic approach to evidence-based care optimizes patient outcomes.

Quality award for recovery model Dell Children’s Medical Center in Austin received the Texas Hospital Association Bill Aston Award for quality for development of a swift recovery pathway for idiopathic scoliosis spinal fusions.

A multidisciplinary team of nurses, orthopedic spine surgeons, anesthesiologists, physician assistants and other stakeholders developed the model, which has decreased lengths of stay, decreased intravenous opioid use and increased patient satisfaction.

Hospital marks 35 years of transplants Ascension Seton celebrated the 35th anniversary of its heart transplant program. Ascension Seton’s Specialty Care and Transplant Center is the only heart transplant center in Austin; more than 460 patients have received heart transplants since its inception.

Advanced treatment to prevent stroke Ascension Providence in Waco is using a procedure called transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR). TCAR is a clinically proven and minimally invasive approach for high-surgical-risk patients who need carotid artery treatment.

Stroke center receives certification Ascension Seton Williamson received certification from DNV GL Healthcare as a Primary Plus Stroke Center, affirming the hospital’s readiness to care for a range of stroke-related medical conditions.

Vaccines for homeless Ascension Providence worked with Mission Waco to provide COVID-19 vaccines to its clients and front-line workers.

Mission Waco serves individuals and families experiencing poverty and homelessness. It identified clients eligible for the vaccines and provided transportation to the Ascension Providence vaccination clinic and vaccine education.

WISCONSIN

Small-scale hospitals opening soon Ascension Wisconsin’s small-scale hospitals in Waukesha, Menomonee Falls and Greenfield are on track to open this year.

The hospitals encompass approximately 32,000 square feet each and will provide emergency services and inpatient beds.

Stroke center certification Ascension Columbia St. Mary’s Hospital Milwaukee has been certified by The Joint Commission as a Comprehensive

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Stroke Center, affirming its excellence in the care of stroke patients.

ASCENSION INSURANCE

Meeting needs of high-risk moms Since launching the Ascension Maternal Health Initiative in 2019, the team at Ascension SE Wisconsin Hospital - St. Joseph Campus has been connecting pregnant women and new mothers with social services and care they need to support good health outcomes for themselves and their babies. The effort now includes the Maternal Food Access Program, which includes food insecurity boxes for highrisk pregnant and postpartum women, and condition-specific food boxes, with food, recipes and education.

‘Ascension Personalized Care’ ACA product launching Ascension Insurance is launching a new health insurance marketplace product in the fall that aligns with our Mission of serving those who are poor and vulnerable. Ascension Personalized Care will start in Kansas, Indiana and Michigan and provide balanced coverage so members will get the care and resources that are right for them through a variety of health plan options. Members will be provided a differentiated patient experience with access to a new, high-touch member concierge model.

ASCENSION GLOBAL MISSION

ASCENSION INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT

Global Solidarity Fund effort Ascension Global Mission is a founding member of the Global Solidarity Fund (GSF). On Dec. 3, 2020, GSF hosted a virtual fundraising event to support its work with women religious, the Vatican COVID-19 Commission, and job-creation efforts for migrants in Ethiopia. The fundraising goal is to raise $100 million over the next three years. As of April 2021, over $46 million had been pledged with approximately $9 million received for work with migrants and refugees in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and with the International Union of Superiors General to support and elevate the work of Sisters throughout the world. Sr. Kathy Brazda, CSJ, President of the Congregation of St. Joseph and Chair of the Ascension Global Mission Board, serves on the GSF Advisory Board alongside four members of the Roman Curia and executive leadership from Unilever, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, GHR Foundation, Helmsley Charitable Trust, Hilton Foundation, Raskob Foundation, and Porticus Foundation. Visit globalsolidarityfund.org for more info.

Chief Investment Officer honored David Erickson, Ascension Chief Investment Officer, was named by Trusted Insight as one of the top 30 health system chief investment officers for 2021.

The organization also highlighted his investment work in its publication.

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ASCENSION LIVING

Chief Medical Officer welcomed Rafael Bloise, MD, MA, MBA, joined Ascension as the Chief Medical Officer of Senior Care. Dr. Bloise is responsible for

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the clinical direction and strategy across Ascension Living and championing the implementation of a System-wide palliative care strategy in partnership with each Ascension acute care market.

New brand in Illinois, Indiana Following a successful launch in other markets, Ascension Living communities in Illinois and Indiana adopted the unified Ascension brand, naming and logo.

Reflecting Ascension’s identity as a Catholic health ministry, legacy community names changed slightly to reflect the new naming architecture and added Ascension Living to connect them to the larger community in a meaningful way.

All Ascension Living communities now feature the Ascension Living name.

ASCENSION TECHNOLOGIES

Web-based password reset Ascension Technologies introduced webbased password reset functionality that makes it easy for associates to change or edit their password outside the Ascension firewall. Associates are confirmed using Duo Multifactor Authentication, then can go to IPM.ascension.org or click a link on the Windows lock screen (which appears when you press ctrl+alt+del). Citrix users also have in-app access.

Brooke Murdock receives a COVID-19 vaccination at DePaul Community Health Centers’ New Orleans East location.

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ASCENSION VENTURES

New fund and investments Ascension Ventures announced the establishment of its fifth fund with commitments of $285 million from 13 nonprofit health systems. New partners include Luminis, Sentara and Texas Health Resources, which brings total assets under management to over $1 billion. Ascension Ventures has finalized investments in several new companies, including AristaMD, an asynchronous specialist consultation platform. In addition, Ascension Ventures Fund III portfolio company Alignment Healthcare (NASD: ALHC) completed its initial public offering.

CLINICAL & NETWORK SERVICES

Palliative care strategy Ascension has adopted a multiyear strategy for building primary palliative care knowledge and skills among clinicians, using technology to help identify and guide care for patients with serious illnesses across the continuum. This includes a website for clinicians to address all aspects of providing primary palliative care and a website for patients explaining the role and importance of advance care planning, a critical communication component between clinicians and patients that facilitates understanding, reflection, and discussion of goals and wishes for future healthcare decisions, including end-of-life care. Ascension also created Allay, a free online tool to guide patients through advance care planning, at allay.ascension.org.

Kansas City, Missouri; and New Orleans administered COVID-19 vaccines to thousands of vulnerable residents, particularly those living in poverty, students and the elderly. The ministries worked with local schools, churches, government offices, and religious and secular organizations to conduct outreach and to increase convenience and access, including offering mobile vaccine clinics. Many community members expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to be vaccinated.

MEDXCEL

Teams tackle vaccines Medxcel safety teams helped manage an ambitious plan to safely and quickly vaccinate associates against COVID-19.

In Texas, teams stretched their creativity to overcome obstacles “on the go,” as the number of vaccines received was more than double the expected volume.

As vaccines arrived, teams took a moment to pray and bless vaccines before distribution began.

THE RESOURCE GROUP

Interns welcomed The Resource Group welcomed a new class of college interns in the spring.

Last year’s class gave a resounding endorsement of the program, with 100% of participants recommending The Resource Group as a place to work. This solidified The Resource Group program’s reputation as a highly sought-after internship opportunity, which helped recruit 26 bright, diverse and dynamic students for this year.

Representing 20 areas of study and 23 universities, these future leaders have the opportunity to make meaningful contributions across Ascension, and some of them may join Ascension as full-time associates in the future.

Stay connected with Ascension @ HOME, @ WORK, @ YOUR FINGERTIPS Twitter: @ascensionorg Keep up with Ascension tweets. Follow Ascension.

Facebook: facebook.com/ascensionorg Like our Ascension page and get the latest updates on your newsfeed.

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/ascensionorg Stay up to date with organization news and connect with other associates.

YouTube: youtube.com/c/ascensionorg Watch videos about Ascension on an array of topics.

COMMUNITY HEALTH MINISTRIES

Instagram: instagram.com/ascension_org Check out the latest Ascension posts by following Ascension.

Thousands of vaccines administered Ascension’s community health ministries in San Antonio and El Paso, Texas; Dumas and Gould, Arkansas;

Podcast: ascension.org/news/podcasts Listen to the latest Good Day Ascension Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Learn more about Ascension at ascension.org.

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WE ARE ASCENSION

Michael Howze

Manager, Physical Medicine and Wound Center Ascension St. John Jane Phillips

It’s been six years since Michael Howze began providing leadership and guidance to associates who serve at the Outpatient Physical Medicine and Wound Center at Ascension St. John Jane Phillips in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. He started at Ascension St. John in a nuclear cardiology technologist lead role in 2002.

Michael is the department manager for the two outpatient centers.

The physical medicine center serves children to adults and provides physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech pathology. The wound center, which offers hyperbaric medicine, sees patients with various comorbidities that challenge wound healing.

“My passion is the patient experience and the associate experience and the connection between,” said Michael, who joined 24 associates from across the System as participants in the first class of Ascension’s ASPIRE program in 2017.

“Shadowing various leaders is part of ASPIRE, and I shadowed Dwan Borens, CNO [Chief Nursing Officer] at Ascension St. John

Broken Arrow. Floor by floor, unit by unit, he was so engaged with associates, truly showing concern, empathy and care. I was impressed with his skills and have worked to become an even more visible leader, providing resources and being aware and present to the needs of the staff.”

On a day that Michael was rounding with front desk associates, a woman appeared in great pain and barely able to walk. She was searching for the Emergency Department. With COVID-19 restrictions in place, Michael knew it was too far and complicated for the patient to manage alone, so he found a wheelchair and took the woman himself.

“As a manager, I try to make a difference. Little did I know that an associate nominated me for an award,” he said. Michael was among 85 Ascension St. John associates nominated by their peers to receive the “Extra Mile” award for extraordinary pandemic service.

Each received a medal from the Medals4Mettle organization.