Good Day Ascension - Fall 2022

Good Day Ascension

Community impact

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, ASCENSION!

As we begin our 24th year as an integrated healing ministry on Nov. 1, I want to express my thanks for the contributions you’ve made to advance our Mission — and for your continued commitment as we look to the future.

In this issue, we explore examples of our shared work creating moments of delight — or as I like to call them, Holy Moments — for those we serve. This is a key way we will differentiate Ascension and our caregivers in our communities to fulfill our Mission.

That Mission calls us to serve all persons, sustaining and improving the health of individuals and communities entrusted to our care. This call extends beyond delivering an exceptional experience in our hospitals, clinics, physician offices and virtual visits and across the continuum of care. It means understand ing the underlying needs of our patients and communities

Ascension continues to explore and implement ways to ensure that those we serve get the medical care they seek, along with ongoing support to tackle their more pressing needs.

Good Day Ascension / Fall 2022 - Issue 20

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 2022 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.

and impacting those social determinants of health that affect consumers and patients every day — such as consistent transportation to and from appointments, access to healthy food options close to home, and having a safe place to live.

Ascension continues to explore and implement ways to ensure that those we serve get the medical care they seek, along with ongoing support to tackle their more pressing needs. In this issue, you’ll learn about some of the programs we’ve put in place, such as the Social Response Framework and Neighborhood Resource, to address disparities and social determinants of health. You’ll also read how the new Ascension Foundation has been established to address issues with long-term implications across multiple communities.

Our consumer experience and social determinants of health work touches all of us at Ascension. Each of us contributes because of the direct connection we have to our Mission to care for all, especially those who need it most.

Happy anniversary and God bless,

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

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.

DEPARTMENTS

4 Mailbox

Patients and families share letters of thanks to

5 Inspiration

Are you open to

Shining stars

Ascension’s Emergency and Urgent

in the moments that matter.

17 Special nursing section

The Ascension

Making an impact

Ascension teams renew focus on sustaining

Diversity in medicine

Within our ABIDE framework, Ascension hosts a symposium focused on cultivating supportive environments for

Ascension Living is keeping the PACE with seniors

An

6 Up front

Improving the online patient experience. ...

Getting the most out of Google Workspace. ... Ascension Foundation tackles the root causes of health disparities. ... Ascension Philanthropy Leadership Council  promotes excellence in philanthropy across market foundations. ... Associates across Ascension share their voices.

12 Getting to know you

Meet Gagan Singh, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer.

13 Wellness now

Watch out for prediabetes.

News from across Ascension

What’s happening around the ministry.

Back cover

Carolyn LeFevre, an Ascension Via Christi athletic trainer, earns Hall of Fame wall recognition.

Care teams across Ascension are coming together to

and address

access

determinants

health to improve outcomes. Holding baby Loyal, Crystal shares her successful maternal health journey with Ascension SE Wisconsin Hospital – St. Joseph Campus in Milwaukee.

nurses.

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

Thanks especially to Janet who was compassionate. … Thank you all for taking such good care of our dad. … We appre ciate the extra things you did. ... If we could call you family, we would.

Family of patient at Ascension St. Vincent’s East, Birmingham, Alabama

I enjoy living here because the staff all have great attitudes. They treat each resident as an important individual, which makes us feel at home.

Resident at Ascension Living Resurrection Village Life Center, Chicago

I was with him in his final hours, during which he repeatedly praised the third floor nursing staff. … I personally experienced their care and concern for my well-being through that difficult time. They were likewise incredibly sensitive, attentive and caring to the various family members who were with him. … As Ascension maintains its Catholic identity and healing Mission call to care for everyone with dignity and respect … everyone fulfilled that promise.

Family member of patient at Ascension Via Christi Hospital, Manhattan, Kansas

Everyone at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital was so good to me. It’s an emotional, scary journey, and everyone was so nice and caring.

Patient at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis

Regina Dumas is knowledgeable and efficient. I can tell she has a lot of expe rience and she always makes me and my

child feel comfortable. She can quickly identify a problem and knows exactly how to treat the patient. I appreciate her kindness and compassionate care.

Patient at DePaul Community Health Centers – New Orleans East

Dr. [Ricardo] Lugo was such a wonderful doctor and I am so grateful my husband pushed me to get a second opinion. I con sider myself very fortunate because I am not sure where I’d be if it wasn’t for him.

Patient at Ascension Saint Thomas West, Nashville, Tennessee

This hospital and this care team is to be most strongly commended for combining its core value of stewardship with excellence. … Because of the Veterans Care program as well as the honorable staff of Lourdes jumping into action, I should make a full recovery.

Patient at Lourdes Hospital, Binghamton, New York

Martha [Davenport] has been providing care for my father-in-law. ... Martha has been so compassionate and caring and showed a genuine concern for making my father-in-law as comfortable as possible. … She is an asset to your facility.

Family member of patient at Ascension Borgess Allegan Hospital, Allegan, Michigan

The therapy helped a lot, not just for our son but for our family as well. We struggled a lot communicating with him, and we’ve been learning how to handle situations when behaviors arise. … We are more open to communicating with our son since he now knows how to better

handle his emotions as well as tell us what he wants and needs. Our son says he is happier now too.

Family of patient at Ascension Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital, Hoffman Estates, Illinois

Everyone not only did their job very well, but they all made me feel human during a time when I was completely helpless and very disheartened. Every single person I encountered during my stay kept me feeling like a person.

Patient at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis, Wichita, Kansas

They were knowledgeable. Prompt. Took care of my needs. Listened. Proactive in explaining what I had done and how they would fix it. And managed the pain exactly right. Thank you for excellent care and service.

Patient at Ascension Sacred Heart Bay, Panama City, Florida

I just wanted to shout out and recognize ER nurse Melissa Johnston, RN. She was down to earth and my son said if he had to ever come back, he would want her again as his nurse.

Mother of patient at Ascension Standish Hospital, Standish, Michigan

Tanya Hege-Maisel ... has been an instrumental part of my feeling better and healing. I truly do not know where I’d be without her help, knowledge, healing methods and understanding of my situa tion. She is a vital part of your team, and I’m so grateful to have her as my therapist.

Patient at Ascension Saint Agnes, Baltimore

Are you open to being transformed?

BY TOM VANOSDOL, MS, MA, FACHE, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF MISSION INTEGRATION OFFICER, ASCENSION

In 2004, I was blessed immeasurably by the opportu nity to participate in the first community of the Exec utive Ministry Leadership (EML) formation program. I’ll never forget the first day of our first in-person group retreat experience. Sr. Maureen McGuire asked us to share our personal stories about our calling to Catholic healthcare. Prior to that moment, I had never really con templated or recognized a personal calling to this work.

When I joined Ascension as a speech-language pathologist, I was thrilled with the opportunity to join a new, state-of-the-art inpatient rehabilitation facility that was close to my home in Indianapolis. Other than wanting to care for complex patients in a brand-new unit with a new, dynamic team, I hadn’t given much thought to my “why” for being here.

During the EML program, I sat and listened to fellow leaders share their heartfelt and compelling stories of responding to their calling, and I began to panic a bit because I felt my story simply paled in comparison. Just as it was my turn to speak, Sr. Maureen asked us to take a short break.

I walked out into the hall worrying about what I would share. A colleague saw me, noticed my distress and asked what was on my mind. As we talked, he said, “Tom, in my experience there are those who know they’re called to Catholic healthcare, and there are those who have been transformed by it.” That was the moment it clicked for me.

Although I didn’t initially recognize my invitation to join Ascension as God’s call, I have no doubt that God did indeed lead me to Ascension. As a young clinician, I never would have thought my journey would lead me to the blessing and privilege of following in Sr. Maureen’s footsteps to become the Chief Mission Integration Officer for Ascension. Clearly, my service within our ministry has transformed me. God has had a hand in every detail and every step of my journey, forming and preparing me to flourish.

As you consider God’s guiding presence in your life and work, I invite you to think about whether you feel you were called to Catholic healthcare, or if you are being transformed by it. Either way, you are here for a reason that God knows well, and it’s my honor to serve our ministry alongside you.

Improving the online experience

When consumers are look ing for a new doctor or a site of care, the majority of them begin their search online. Almost 1.5 million people come through our Ascension website each month looking for a doctor, a location or an appointment. That means Ascension must continue to create an easy-to-use digital presence that offers timely health information, access to our providers and facilities, care navigation, and appointment scheduling — in a way

that is personalized and easy to find through search engines like Google, Bing and others.

Ascension’s Marketing and Com munications, Consumer and Patient Experience, Ascension Studio, and Ascension Technologies teams, among others, are working together to achieve these objectives.

“In choosing care for themselves and their families, consumers want a healthcare relationship that provides ease of access, convenience, and compassionate, personalized care.

We are creating a digital experience that meets those needs and differ entiates our care at the same time,“ said Tara Raeber Vail, Vice President, Marketing Strategy and Consumer Engagement, Ascension.

By using effective marketing strat egy combined with human-centered design and modern web technolo gies, Ascension is helping those we serve find the right care in the right place at the right time, shortening the path from search to schedule. The work is focused on facilitating:

IS MAKING IT EASIER FOR PATIENTS TO FIND THE CARE THEY NEED

• Improved content: Content about Ascension that consumers find through online search now leads with quality and highlights our clinical expertise, helping consumers find our sites and services more easily and more competitively. We have freshened and standardized our site’s content while customizing information on service lines, specialties and treatments, and provider profiles for each market.

• More effective designs and experi ence: We are improving the layout, functionality and usability of our site pages, and we routinely review new designs with consumers and associates to ensure our experiences serve consumer and business needs.

• Better search visibility: When consumers search for any general clinician, hospital or clinic near them, Ascension providers, sites and services are now showing higher in Google page rankings, enabled by improvements to data that is shared with Google, wording adjustments and layout enhance ments across standard pages, and other technical enhancements.

• Easier scheduling: We have improved the visibility and accuracy of physician appointment availability, making it easier for consumers to schedule an appointment online.

“Consumers’ expectations of digital experiences are set by the best-in-class in other industries, and they have come to expect, even demand the same from their healthcare providers — fast, intuitive, easy!” said Raj Mohan, Chief Digital Officer, Ascension.

The Find a Doctor experience on ascension.org has been improved to display clinicians in nearby cities. When consumers navigate to the

Schedule an Appointment page, provider results are immediately displayed if the user’s preferred geographic location is already known, eliminating clicks. On the Find a Loca tion page, the Schedule Appointment Online links have been streamlined to go directly to the relevant loca tion’s scheduling page rather than always displaying a secondary pop-up window that users needed to click through.

Because the path into the Ascension website most often starts with online search, improving our presence on search engines like Google helps make the Ascension site and content easier to find. By optimizing Google Business Profile listings for Ascension locations and providers — and inviting patients to add ratings and reviews — the Ascension website is ranking higher in search results. As well, Google Business Profile listings now even show available appointments

and allow consumers to conveniently schedule an appointment directly from the listing.

For example, patient reviews took the Google search results for Ascension Saint Thomas Joint Replacement Institute in Nashville, Tennessee, from page 5 to page 1.

In total, Ascension has seen an increase in overall consumer rating, reaching 4.5 on a scale of 1 to 5 — and elevated the overall page rank for the Ascension website in Google search results.

“By inviting patients to share their story — and ours — with others, we are improving our brand repu tation online where consumers are making choices about where to go for care, and we are helping shorten the distance consumers have to go between searching and scheduling,” Tara said.

Scan this code for direct access to Ascension’s Google Workspace.

7 new ways to use Google Workspace tools

OPTIMIZE YOUR TIME WITH THESE HELPFUL FEATURES

Since Ascension adopted the Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) collaboration tools three years ago, the apps have evolved with new features to help associates optimize their time. Check out these features that associates have found helpful — and see the full list and links on how to use them by scanning the QR code above.

1. Meet: From within a meeting, easily check the guest list, send a chat note to invitees who haven’t yet joined the meeting or add new participants. There’s no need to go back to Calendar for these tasks.

2. Meet: Join a meeting from Docs, Sheets or Slides. Start presenting from the document and see other attendees from the document while presenting.

3. Meet: While in a conference room, join a meeting from a laptop in “companion mode” to see a presentation up close, participate in chat, vote in polls, raise hands and more.

4. Drive: Find documents faster with smart menus that help with searching by location, file times, people with access, last modification and more.

5. Calendar: Let organizers know whether you will attend a meeting virtually or in person.

6. Contacts: See a colleague’s reporting tree and direct reports. This information also is available in Gmail when you hover over a name then open a detailed view.

7. Docs: Use table templates and drop-down options to create highly collaborative documents, as well as building blocks for a quick start on memos, meeting notes and other templates.

“At its core, Google Workspace is a suite of tools designed to improve productivity and our ability to advance our Strategic Plan and fulfill our Mission,” said Gagan Singh, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer, Ascension. “These enhanced features are part of an ongoing effort by Google and our Ascension Technologies team to continue to improve usability and the experience of users.”

Mission alive

NEW ASCENSION FOUNDATION TACKLES ROOT CAUSES OF HEALTH DISPARITIES

Ascensionhas created a new way to live out our healing Mission today and into the future: the Ascension Foundation.

The Ascension Foundation will initially focus on supporting programs that address the root causes of generational poverty, creating new pathways to economic stability for families and communities, as well as programs designed to create a future healthcare workforce that better reflects the race, ethnicity and cultural mix of the country.

“The pandemic era has made it clear that our nation’s health disparities are wider and deeper than ever, and it will require large-scale, national solutions if we are to truly improve the health of communities, particularly communities that have long been underserved,” said Joseph R. Impicciche, JD, MHA, President and Chief Executive Officer, Ascension. “As a leading Catholic health system, we are particularly called to make meaningful changes that address the root causes of health disparities. The Ascension Foundation gives us a bold new way to support programs designed to address these pressing needs.”

“Just as our founders went to where the need was greatest, the national foundation will provide for positive and lasting change for the health of our communities for generations to come,” said Robyn Kress, Senior Vice President, Ascension Foundation. “This foundation will allow Ascension to explore the heart of generational poverty and health disparities, then make investments to help people where they need us the most and influence change over time.”

Currently, more than 40 foundations based in Ascension ministries receive philanthropic support from local donors to advance Ascension’s Mission in their communities. The vital work of those foundations continues, separate from the efforts of the Ascension Foundation.

The Ascension Foundation has begun by establishing multiyear collaborations with organizations that have already proved successful in helping bring about systemic change in three cities. One of these is Marian Middle School in St. Louis, which educates adolescent girls in the area who have limited means but high potential. The Ascension Foundation

Top: Marian Middle School is committed to breaking the cycle of poverty through education. Bottom: Rayne, left, was inspired by her sister LaDaria to also attend Marian and plans to become a cardiothoracic surgeon. LaDaria is thriving in her career as a registered nurse.

will provide annual scholarships for students; aid a graduate support program, including academic, social and financial help for Marian alumnae as they move through high school and college; and provide access to affordable medication to sup port health stability at home for students and their families.

The Ascension Foundation will also provide support to Meharry Medical College, in Nashville, Tennessee, a private, historically black medical school, and Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit, whose history includes having led the nation in baccalaureate degrees awarded to African Americans for schools that are not historically black colleges or universities.

“The Ascension Foundation is honored to partner with organizations that are creating long-term change for individuals and communities,” Robyn said. “We will invest in this work and look for new philanthropic support to accelerate and amplify these efforts.”

“This is generational work, and as our success will be measured in decades, we are eager to get started,” Joe said. “We welcome everyone’s support and your prayers for the success of this important effort.”

Working together to help donors leave a legacy

NEW SETS OF TOOLS, EDUCATION AND TRAINING SUPPORT PLANNED GIVING

The Ascension Philanthropy Leadership Council (APLC) continues to bring to life its vision for creating a supportive part nership that promotes excellence in philanthropy across Ascension market foundations. The APLC’s teams are tap ping into the strengths and experience of foundations across the country, working together to develop products that can serve as tools and templates to benefit all of our market foundations.

One of the teams has been focused on developing tools, training and education around planned giving. Planned giving presents opportunities for donors to work with our foundations to make lifetime commitments in their financial or estate plans in support of Ascension hospitals, care providers and programs — including research, technology and patient care. A major initiative taken on in planned giving was to use Ascension Michigan Founda tion as a pilot for developing planned giving-focused webpages for its market-based foundations’ current shared website. The content on these pages provides clear, compel ling information on the intricacies of planned giving (helpful for both potential donors and our foundations), lays out sample bequest language, and explains how donors can maximize their gifts and benefit from the many planned giving opportunities available.

The team worked with colleagues from Ascension Technologies,

Marketing and Communications, Finance, and Legal to develop and launch the new web content this past summer at mich.legacy.ascension.org.

The Ascension Michigan Foundation planned giving webpages will serve as a template for other in-market foun dations to implement as they are able, saving time, effort and resources and also providing our smaller foundations with an exceptional tool for starting their own planned giving program if they don’t already have one.

The co-leads of the planned giving work, David Alexander, President, Via Christi Foundation in Wichita, Kansas, and Stan Simek, Director of Foundation Development, Ascension Michigan Foundation in Warren, Michigan, share an understanding of the importance of planned giving for the future success of our foundations across the country.

“We saw that not every market foundation is fortunate enough to have staff and resources dedicated to planned giving,” David said. “Col lectively, we can help ensure that all of our foundations have an oppor tunity to promote planned giving in

their market, even if it’s in a modest way. We want all markets to be able to offer donors the opportunity to bequeath our foundations and health ministries with their legacy gift.”

“Planned giving is essential to the future success of our foundations,” Stan said. “With the baby-boomer generation reaching retirement age, now is the time to be working with these current and potential donors to include Ascension foundations in their estate planning. We want to help provide the tools our foundations need to facilitate planned giving conversations with the donors who we know our foundations have already worked hard to build relationships with, and beyond.”

David, Stan and the rest of the planned giving team are busy shepherding and facilitating the devel opment of the planned giving web con tent pilot program, which, if successful, could be made available across our market foundations. In addition, they are focused on future steps, includ ing developing shared resources for generating awareness of the planned giving resources in each market.

“If we create these tools and don’t tell anyone, it’s a waste. Our vision is to make sure every foundation has resources and templates to support a yearly planned giving initiative,” David said. “Stan and I are here to help any foundation who may have questions or needs some help. Just give us a call!”

David Alexander

Stan Simek

Survey says

ASSOCIATES ACROSS ASCENSION SHARE THEIR VOICES

More than 81,000 associates from across Ascension shared their voices during the Associate Experience Survey last summer. The survey measured progress with our associate experience goals and established a baseline of an important aspect of our Catholic ministry identity — including our ABIDE (Appreciation - Belongingness - Inclusivity - Diversity - Equity) framework. How do we experience each ABIDE hallmark?

APPRECIATION

Appreciation occurs when individuals feel valued, recognized and understood.

BELONGINGNESS

Belongingness is experienced when people feel welcome and accepted as part of something through connections with people, groups or communities, without judgment.

INCLUSIVITY

Inclusivity is about acknowledging and inviting varying perspectives and identities and understanding how others’ experiences contribute to decision-making, collaboration and growth.

DIVERSITY

Diversity is expressed in the intersection of not only our observable characteristics but also in the essence of who we are on the inside, as unique individuals with distinct thoughts, beliefs, values, personalities, ideas, experiences, perspectives, dispositions and abilities.

EQUITY

Equity is experienced when all individuals are treated fairly and barriers are eliminated so they can fully participate in a group or community.

Celebrating strengths; addressing opportunities

For the first survey of its kind that incorporated the ABIDE hallmarks, Ascension had an overall 61% response rate and a 63% overall favorability score. Among strengths, more than 65% of associates felt a strong sense of belonging, more than 70% felt comfortable being their authentic selves, and 65% felt their leaders supported their skill and career development goals. The results also reflected opportunity for improvement, specifically in the areas of appreciation and equity.

“Through this year’s survey, we wanted to establish a baseline for where we see ourselves on the spectrum of associates feeling appreciated, included — like they belong here at Ascension,” said Pam Mitchell-Boyd, Senior Director, ABIDE, Ascension. “Knowing where we are has already helped us identify our strengths and address areas of improvement that will have a lasting impact.”

Leaders have been using the SOAR (strengths, opportuni ties, aspirations, results) model to collect insights, align with System-wide priorities, and communicate results and next steps within their market or Ministry-wide Function through town halls, conversations, check-ins and listening sessions.

“This is only the beginning, and it’s only through under standing the current state of our associates’ experience that we can enhance it,” said Herb Vallier, Executive Vice Presi dent and Chief Human Resources Officer, Ascension. “We’re at a very exciting intersection at Ascension where we have these meaningful survey results that represent the voice of our associates, and we also have several programs and processes to support us in our response to the survey that focus on our culture — such as learning modules related to psychological safety and unconscious bias, as well as leader development enhancements — that should help us improve the experience of our associates and consumers alike.”

Getting to know you

GAGAN SINGH, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER

cardiology. I started learning more about this space and thinking about how I could contribute to the healthcare industry.

Q: What role does technology play in Ascension’s strategy?

A: Today’s medical facilities are high-tech operations that put cutting-edge technologies into the hands of talented healthcare professionals. A solid technology infrastructure with easy-to-use applications and data that flows securely across systems is critical to enabling transformative associate, clinician and patient experiences across our strategic pillars.

Q: What is the promise for data use in healthcare?

A: The simple, easy-to-use experiences you enjoy in other industries are driven by data and technology — and there are plenty of opportunities in healthcare to create a more connected technology ecosystem. We can use the data already available to drive a better “know me” experience that patients want and a more complete patient history that aids clinical decision-making.

Q: Was there a defining moment in your career?

Gagan Singh (guh-guhn sing) became Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer in May. He leads the Ascension Technologies team in delivering data-driven technology solutions across our ministry. Gagan joined Ascension as Chief Data Officer in 2019 with an extensive data and technology background.

Q: What drew you to healthcare?

A: Healthcare touches everyone’s life. I lost my mother to a stroke nine years ago, and I became intrigued by innovation in the healthcare space, especially how critical it is to get timely attention in life-threatening events. Also, my wife works in healthcare technology, in radiology and

A: I was fortunate to have the right mentor in my life 12 years ago who made a big difference in making me believe in myself and boosting my confidence. It helped transform me from an individual contributor to a leader.

Q: Who inspires you?

A: Growing up in India, I got exposure to the work of Mother Teresa. It’s truly a godly work that she has done for humanity.

Q: What advice would you give Ascension associates?

A: I really like this quote from Mother Teresa: “Do ordinary things with extraordinary love.” It’s applicable for everything we do.

Watch out for prediabetes!

NOVEMBER IS AMERICAN DIABETES MONTH AND A GOOD TIME TO TALK ABOUT A SERIOUS HEALTH CONDITION KNOWN AS PREDIABETES

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that one in three Americans has prediabetes. Unfortunately, 80% of people who are living with prediabetes don’t know they have it. The good news is that you can prevent prediabetes from turning into Type 2 diabetes with minor lifestyle changes.

WHAT IS PREDIABETES?

Prediabetes is a common, reversible, yet severe health condition that causes a malfunction in human cell response to insulin. When this happens, the pancreas increases insulin production to get the cells to start responding. Unfortunately, this causes blood sugar levels to rise when the pancreas can no longer keep up with demand. This rise in blood sugar causes prediabetes, which increases the risk for Type 2 diabetes, a chronic condition that can lead to disorders of the circulatory, nervous and immune systems, including heart disease and stroke.

WHO IS AT RISK?

There are no direct symptoms of prediabetes, so many people don’t know they have the condition. If you have any of the following risk factors, it’s important to have your doctor regularly test your blood sugar.

• Over age 45.

• Overweight.

• Parent or sibling with Type 2 diabetes.

• Physically active less than three times a week.

• Polycystic ovary syndrome.

• Gestational diabetes or giving birth to a baby over 9 pounds.

Race and ethnicity can also be a factor for prediabetes. For example, African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, American Indians, Pacific Islanders and some Asian Americans have a higher risk.

WILL IT CAUSE DIABETES?

If you are diagnosed with prediabetes, it doesn’t mean that a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis is inevitable.

CAN YOU PREVENT IT?

You can lower your risk by losing a modest amount of weight, getting regular exercise and eating well. This means moderate activity like walking 150 minutes a week, or 30 minutes five days a week. To add healthy eating into your routine, work with your doctor or a dietitian to find the right plan.

So think about getting your blood sugar tested and making a plan for a healthy lifestyle.

Shining stars

ASCENSION’S EMERGENCY AND URGENT CARE SERVICES TEAM

DELIVERS CARE IN THE MOMENTS THAT MATTER

Over the past year, Ascension’s efforts to improve the operations of all its Emergency Departments (EDs) and urgent care centers, led by Allison Bollinger, MD, FAAEM, Vice President, Emergency and Urgent Care Services, Ascension, have led to tremendous strides in transforming care for the patients we serve.

“The COVID-19 pandemic put a strain on healthcare systems across the country, especially on Emergency Departments and urgent cares,” Dr. Bollinger said. “Despite the challenges the pandemic presented us, our ED teams across Ascension have remained unwavering in their commitment and focus to enhance how we deliver care.”

The dedication of those ED and urgent care teams has brought about positive improvements across four key focus areas set by the National ED Optimization Team:

• Quality and consistency.

• Throughput and efficiency.

• Patient and clinician engagement.

• Appropriate utilization of care.

HIGH-QUALITY, CONSISTENT CARE

Providing prompt care in the ED is essential. One strategy to improve access is to reduce the number of minutes from a patient’s arrival in the ED to their assessment by a provider. Reducing door-to-provider time is a three-year clinical priority goal for Ascension. Since the goal’s introduction in fiscal year 2022, many Ministry Markets have seen

significant improvements in this quality measure. For example, Ascension Providence in Mobile, Alabama, has reduced these times by nearly 50% compared with last year.

This achievement can be attributed to educating all clinicians on how times are calculated; new processes for screening patients; and communications training, with specific emphasis on scripting around front-end processes and using white boards so staff and patients are aware of where they are in the process of being assessed and treated.

“By having our ED patients assessed by clinicians sooner, we can not only improve the patient experience but optimize outcomes,” Dr. Bollinger said. “We look forward to further collaborating across our markets to share best practices and to continue to build upon their great work.”

DATA-DRIVEN STRATEGIES

To further help deliver prompt service, the National ED Team has worked with the Ascension Data Science Institute (ADSI)

Dr. Howard Chang, an emergency medicine specialist at Ascension Via Christi hospitals in Wichita, Kansas, takes a moment to connect with his patient. Dr. Chang piloted the Commit to Sit initiative, which encourages clinicians to meet patients at eye level while talking with them.

and Ascension Data Delivery and Governance (ADDG) teams to bring ED data together in one place and make it usable and actionable by developing an ED Metrics Dashboard. The new dashboard houses key data to empower leaders and clinical teams to drive improvements around quality, throughput, engagement and consistency. By synthesizing multiple ED data sources into one platform, this enhanced reporting ensures our ED data remains accurate and reliable.

“This was a massive undertaking by ADDG and ADSI,” said Gary Ichkowsky, MMR, Director of Operations, Emergency Services, Ascension. “Thanks to their dedication and teamwork, we are now able to provide a great resource to our ED personnel that will enable them to get timely data across our Ministry Markets.”

RIGHT CARE, RIGHT TIME

To help support the work of our ED team, Ascension launched a consumer marketing campaign called “Right Place, Right Time” earlier this year. The goal of the campaign is to promote ease of navigation for emergency care, urgent care and walk-in care, primary care, and virtual care — reminding patients where to go, and when, based on their medical concern or need.

The campaign’s creative elements were designed to support navigation of care by proximity, availability, accessibility and acuity — directing people to the right front door without delaying needed care.

“Our Mission calls us to help our patients navigate the care they need, whether it be emergency, immediate, episodic or follow-up care,” said Richard Fogel, MD, FACC, FHRS, Executive Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer, Ascension, who contributed to the creation of the campaign. “We want the communities we serve to choose Ascension because they can find all the care they need, doctors who listen, and convenience and care that’s connected.”

Data from the dashboard will also inform our ED team’s future strategies and identify additional areas for improve ment at the System and market level.

IT STARTS WITH COMPASSION

At the heart of our EDs team’s work is their compassion for those we serve. For many patients, the ED can be a stressful, vulnerable place. To help make patients feel more at ease, Ascension recently kicked off an initiative called Commit to Sit.

Howard Chang, MD, an emergency medicine specialist who serves Ascension Via Christi’s Wichita, Kansas, hospi tals, who piloted the initiative, suggested a simple step that all ED clinicians, nurses and bedside caregivers could take to better connect with their patients and listen with compassion: ensuring that whenever possible, clinicians take a seat and communicate with patients at an eye-to-eye level.

“Taking a seat when talking with patients is not a new concept,” Dr. Chang said. “In fact, it’s something we are all taught in medical school. With this initiative, we are simply reinforcing what we already know and setting an expectation that everyone will employ this approach of getting back to the basics of a positive doctor-patient relationship.”

The Commit to Sit initiative has been adopted by many markets as a key tool to improve how we listen to patients.

CARE DURING THE MOMENTS THAT MATTER

Our ED teams also play an important role in getting patients to the right place of care. The ED is often the front door to our ministry. Many patients call EDs directly seeking medical advice only to be told that it cannot be provided over the phone. An ED navigation hotline was developed with the Ascension Connect Contact Center and Ascension Medical Group to help assist patients in need of care.

“We want to ensure that our patients receive the right care during moments that matter,” Dr. Bollinger said.

“By offering a patient-centered navigation hotline, we can provide patients with a direct, personalized connection to a team of highly trained experts to assist them with their care.”

The ED navigation hotline is currently available in Austin and Waco, Texas; Mobile, Alabama; and Pensacola, Florida. Through this hotline concept, together these ministries have served more than 9,000 patients who were uncertain where to seek care and needed the advice of a medical professional.

Ascension career coaches guide nursing career paths

As one of the largest U.S. healthcare systems, Ascension provides associates with a broad range of job opportunities throughout clinical and nonclinical settings in 13 Ministry Markets. Contemplating your personal/professional aspirations? Wondering about new opportunities that harness what inspires you? Not finding fulfillment in your current position? There are many experiences and opportunities to pursue across Ascension. Not sure how to start? Ascension career coaches guide nurses and nursing support professionals to take personal control of their career paths and make their aspirations a reality.

Elisabeth Vincent, RN, Ascension Saint Thomas West Hospital, Nashville, Tennessee, met with her manager, Katherine Zambardi, to discuss career options. Encouraged to be transparent about her career pathway aspiration, Elisabeth shared her desire to work in the medical intensive care unit (MICU). Realizing that this position required a new technical skill set for Elisabeth, Katherine connected her with Ascension Tennessee career coach Rebecca Bilbrey, MSN, RN, NC-BC, to collaborate on a pathway toward her dream job.

Kimberly was excited to welcome Elisabeth to her unit but recommended a temporary assignment in the cardiac unit to help Elisabeth gain more experience with cardiac patients. Working together, Rebecca and the MICU managers reached out to Heart Transplant/LVAD Unit Nursing Supervisor Rebecca Williams to set up temporary placement within the cardiac unit. Assigned to the cardiac unit for six months, Elisabeth is currently learning to care for cardiac patients and will seamlessly transfer to the MICU when she has mastered these skills.

Together, her former, current and future managers worked to ensure Elisabeth’s successful pathway toward a rewarding MICU career with Ascension.

“Elisabeth’s well-being is our top priority.

It’s important that she not only achieve her goals, but that she also thrives in her new role on day one.”

— Rebecca Bilbrey

This is just one example of how a career coach can help associates have more fulfilling careers. In fact, 96% of Ascension associates who engage with a career coach choose to continue serving as part of the ministry.

“Elisabeth’s well-being is our top priority. It’s important that she not only achieve her goals, but that she also thrives in her new role on day one,” Rebecca said. “Before transferring to the MICU, Elisabeth needed to gain the proper experience to care for cardiac patients. We worked with Kimberly Capraro and Matthew McDowell, who had developed a proactive approach to assist associates who want to transfer to the MICU.”

From left, Katherine Zambardi, Elisabeth Vincent, Kimberly Capraro and Rebecca Williams.

DISCOVER Ascension Michigan

Ascension nursing community supports patients, communities and each other

Spirit Day 2022 united the Ascension nursing community as nurses and nursing support professionals cheered on their market leaders during our version of “Hollywood Squares.” With her victory in the game, Cecilia “CeCe” Rutherford, MSN, BSN, RN, Hospital Administrator, Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital, earned a feature for the Michigan Ministry Market in this edition of Good Day Ascension.

Ascension Michigan has a significant presence throughout the state and plays an integral role within its communities. Members of the nursing community care for their patients and one another. Here’s a look at some of the market highlights.

• End of Life team

In Detroit, the Ascension St. John Family Support and End of Life Services team’s focus is to honor life; restore dignity in death; and ensure each patient receives extraordinary, consistent and individualized end-of-life care through compassionate support. The team’s trademark includes individualized mementos of each patient’s handprint, heartbeat, lock of hair and/or fingerprint for families to take home. The team also journeys with family members during their loved ones’ transition and provides psychological support and resources throughout the continuum of end of life.

• Innovative care models

Ascension Providence Hospital Southfield Campus created a float nurse intern team to grow and develop nursing student interns while providing much needed support to bedside caregivers. This has empowered the nurse interns to practice at the top of their scope while building confidence in their skill set, time management and prioritization before taking their registered nurse board exams. Similarly, hospitals across Ascension Michigan have hired more than 100 licensed practical nurses (LPNs) since September 2021. This work has shifted culture while capitalizing on the robust skills of the LPN role.

• Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital inclusive skin care products

Cece Rutherford’s experience with her grandmother’s stay in an intensive care unit left a lasting impression and influenced her leadership in launching Ascension Providence Rochester’s diverse skin products initiative. Guided by our ABIDE (Appreciation - Belongingness - InclusivityDiversity - Equity) framework, CeCe worked with The Resource Group to source a list of inclusive, high-quality personal care products for patients. The products will better serve the various skin care needs and hair types of the hospital’s diverse patients.

• ABIDE

Nurses from across Ascension Michigan are participating on ABIDE councils established at every Ascension Michigan hospital site as an extension of the state’s ABIDE market council. Each hospital integrates ABIDE in its own way, then the councils come together for monthly market meetings where everyone shares their learnings and best practices. One of the most impactful efforts was the creation of space and safety for people to share their stories and have open, honest conversations about difficult topics.

Clockwise from top: Nursing and operational leaders attend a prayer breakfast at Oakland University in Oakland County, Michigan; Nancy Bushon, right, OB Tech, with Cecilia Rutherford, MSN, RN, Hospital Administrator, celebrates her retirement after working for 45 years at Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital in Rochester Hills, Michigan, with 35 of those years in Labor and Delivery assisting in thousands of cesarean sections; Sr. Mary Louise Stubbs, DC, right, from Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul International Project Services, with Rashonda McGee, Nurse Manager, Critical Care/SWAT Nurses, Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital, who were recognized at the August 2022 DAISY Nurse Leader Awards; large posters, which were distributed to each unit at Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital for all associates to color, are displayed during National Hospital Week.

HONORING an extraordinary nurse

Jane Firaza, ADN, RN, Ascension

St. Vincent’s Riverside, Jacksonville, Florida

Jane Firaza’s father, a doctor in the Philippines, moved his family to the United States to give them a better life.

As a daughter of a doctor and a sibling of doctors, Jane grew up surrounded by the practice of medicine, and she says she knew she was destined to work in the medical field. Her passion for working directly with patients led her to a nursing career. Having become a nurse only recently, Jane has already made an impact on her patients. She was chosen for The DAISY Award® for her outstanding care for her patients.

“Extraordinary is not the only word for my nurse. Jane was spectacular caring for me. I was having abdominal pain, and she advocated for me to ensure I was comfortable. She brightened my day by her just being herself. If I could clone her, I would!”

— Patient of Jane Firaza

What does being nominated for The DAISY Award mean to you?

I absolutely remember this patient and was truly touched by her nomination note. It is so nice to be appreciated for what I do, even the smallest things. During my overnight shift, she was alone, distressed and in extreme pain. Unsure why her medicine was discontinued while she was still in severe pain, I advocated for her to receive the medication and made her comfortable with hot packs and massages.

Why did you become a nurse?

I shadowed nurses, doctors and pharmacists while I was in high school to discover my career path, and it was the interaction with the patients I met that led me to nursing. I enjoy connecting with my patients while learning about their lives and hearing their travel stories. Moving to the U.S. as a 12-year-old, I was in culture shock and had difficulty adjusting because I wasn’t fluent in English. I have embraced my new country, and my greatest joy is speaking to my Filipino patients in their native language and helping them feel comfortable during their stay.

How do you enjoy your time outside of work?

I recharge by reading or spending time with friends and family at the beach, shopping or enjoying a meal together. Although an introvert, I am an adrenaline junkie. Living in Florida, I love visiting Universal Studios to ride the heartstopping roller coasters. Traveling is an outlet for me to combine relaxation and adventure. On a recent trip to Mexico, when I wasn’t relaxing on the beach, I ziplined through the treetops. As a foodie, my goal while traveling is to try the local cuisine. My bucket list includes skydiving and traveling throughout Europe and Asia with my ultimate destination of Japan to view the unique architecture and don a kimono.

The DAISY Award is presented to bedside nurses who display professionalism, exceptional care and leadership. An acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System, The DAISY Foundation was formed in November 1999 by the family of J. Patrick Barnes, who died at age 33 of complications of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). The nursing care Patrick received when hospitalized profoundly touched his family.

Many nurses across Ascension are chosen to receive The DAISY Award every month.

Jane Firaza, center, with her sisters Joie, left, and Marcy.

The best gift you can give yourself is your health

That’s why it is important to stay connected with your doctor. And checking in before the end of the year is a great way to make sure you are taking care of you.

Are there health screenings you may have delayed? What about surgical care that you know you need? Or aches and pains that you’ve self-diagnosed but haven’t gotten better?

Taking care of yourself now could come at a lower cost too. If you have met your SmartHealth deductible, or have unused HSA dollars, make sure to use your benefits before the end of the year.

Find an Ascension Medical Group doctor near you. Schedule the care you need at ascension.org

Making an impact

ASCENSION TEAMS RENEW FOCUS ON SUSTAINING THE HEALTH OF COMMUNITIES

Access to safe housing, nutritious food and even transportation can have a significant positive im pact on a person’s health and well-being. And being deficient in these areas and other social determi nants of health (SDoH) — conditions in the environments where people are born, live, learn, work, play, worship and age — can contribute to health disparities for various communities.

That’s why Ascension’s Community Impact team set a new vision aimed at improving the health of communities and achieving a deeper understanding of who our patients are, where they live and the barriers they face every day.

“By intervening upstream, we have the opportunity to better serve our underserved populations while complementing the clinical work of our care teams,“ said Stacy Garrett-Ray, MD, MPH, MBA, Senior Vice President and Chief Community

The Ascension SE Wisconsin Hospital – St. Joseph Campus team stocks a food pantry to help support expectant and new mothers and their families.

Impact Officer, who leads Ascension’s Community Impact team. “This starts with advancing our ministry’s capabilities, aligning our culture to better identify social determinants of health, and increasing access to high-quality healthcare.”

LISTENING TO THOSE WE SERVE

This new vision is already in motion and helping one of our most vulnerable populations — pregnant and postpartum women. Expectant women in the U.S. face some of the highest severe maternal morbidities (SMM) rates compared with other devel oped countries. And SMM rates for Black, non-Hispanic women are almost three times higher than those for white women.

“Across the country, we are seeing wide disparities when it comes to maternal health,” said Allison McNeil, MSN, CNM, Senior Director - Community Impact, Ascension. “To narrow this gap, we launched the Maternal Health Social Systems Initiative in 2019. Our initiative focuses on getting expectant and new moms to their appointments to ensure they have access to timely care. Research shows that early care intervention in pregnancy can optimize outcomes for both mother and baby.”

The initiative applied Ascension’s Social Response Framework to first identify what systemic social barriers expectant women face when it comes to getting to their prenatal appointments. The framework is a simple, unconventional care model that prioritizes listening to, and then organizing learnings from, the individuals we serve to determine the best approach to care.

“For our pilot market in Ascension St. Joseph Hospital in Milwaukee, our team spent time getting into the community — meeting patients where they are, including at the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children department; food pantries; community baby showers; churches; and more,” Allison said. “By engaging with our patients, we learned directly from them what was preventing them from getting to their appointments, such as lack of child care and transportation.”

The team also learned that communication between the patient and the care team is essential. Maternal health navigators and social workers are embedded into the initiative to better support patients throughout their pregnancy while also providing a warm handoff to clinical teams.

Nubia Rojas, MSW, Maternal Health Navigator, and Sharthedria “Shar” Crawford, Patient Navigator, are two associates who serve at Ascension St. Joseph Hospital.

“As navigators, we work one on one with our maternal health patients to coordinate their appointments with their OB-GYN along with any other providers they may see across Ascension,” Shar said. “We are also here to listen to our patients, understand what they may need, and connect them to any resources from Ascension or the local community to better support their health.”

BUILDING STRONG PATIENT RELATIONSHIPS

When she was 10 weeks pregnant, patient Crystal enrolled in the initiative with her third child. Not only was she expecting, she was also managing multiple health conditions including pulmonary valve stenosis, fibromyalgia, a history of pelvic inflammatory disease and pregnancy-induced anemia. Throughout Crystal’s pregnancy, the navigator team worked to coordinate not only her prenatal appointments but also her appointments with her cardiologist and primary care doctor so all members of her care team had a full picture of her health.

“I call Ascension St. Joseph my family,” Crystal said. “I did not have a car, but I did not miss one appointment. Shar and Nubia were able to set me up with [a ride service] whenever

From left, patient Crystal; Sharthedria ‘Shar’ Crawford, Patient Navigator, holding baby Loyal; and Nubia Rojas, MSW, Maternal Health Navigator, at Ascension SE Wisconsin Hospital – St. Joseph Campus in Milwaukee.

I needed it to help get me to and from St. Joseph’s. I talk to them almost daily even three months after my son’s delivery. I have never felt more comfortable with my doctors and truly trust Ascension with my care.”

The team’s work did not stop once Crystal delivered. Shar and Nubia helped support her through postpartum depression and connected her with Ascension’s lactation consultants as well as resources for diapers, formula, clothing and food to keep her and her baby son healthy.

“We are so proud of Crystal,” Nubia said. “Our goal with the initiative is not only to get expecting moms to their prenatal appointments, but to empower our patients. Crystal is now a strong advocate for her health and is a testament to why we champion this work.”

INCREASING ACCESS TO CARE

To further support the navigation team’s efforts, the Ascension Medical Group OB-GYN clinic at Ascension St. Joseph also offers a child waiting area where nursing students watch children of expectant and new mothers while they get the care they need.

“In the past 12 months, the child waiting area at Ascension St. Joseph’s has enabled more than 130 appointments, which would have been missed without the service,” said Mary

Paul, Vice President, Solidarity and Social Accountability, Ascension. “The child waiting area has also recently seen an increased use for the children of pregnant women who are receiving IV iron infusion and IV hydration, with more than 216 encounters. It is believed that these women would have either sought care in the emergency room or not received the IV hydration at all.”

In addition to the Wisconsin market, the Maternal Health Social Systems Initiative has launched in Florida and Michigan and will soon be live in Kansas. These other markets are seeing similar success in reducing appointment no-shows by using their own unique strategies to match the needs of their communities.

“For example, when we launched the program in Florida, we learned that mass transportation in the area was lacking,” Allison said. “Many of our patients had no means to get to their prenatal appointments. With a ride-share partnership now in place, more than 537 patients have been able to use the service to make it to their prenatal/postpartum visits at no cost to them.”

SHAPING OUR COMMUNITIES FOR A BETTER TOMORROW

Beyond the Maternal Health Social Systems Initiative, Commu nity Health Needs Assessments will also soon play a role in shaping the health of our communities. In the coming year,

A nursing student at Ascension SE Wisconsin Hospital – St. Joseph Campus tends to a child waiting area where students watch children of expectant and new mothers during their medical appointments.

Ascension will be working to define a set of health equity measures to identify the widest disparities each market faces. This data will allow for more targeted strategies to drive and support improvement efforts.

Today, clinicians and associates can also help address social determinants of health through an online platform called Neighborhood Resource. Neighborhood Resource is a free and easy-to-use tool that connects those in need to social services and resources right in their own community. Through a simple ZIP code search, patients can find free or reduced-cost services in their community, including food, housing, transportation, job training, legal help and more.

Team members from the Ascension Sacred Heart Women’s Center in Pensacola, Florida, used both the Neighborhood Resource platform and the SDoH screening tool to help them understand potential barriers to maternal care. They learned that lack of transportation is a major contributor to a large number of no-show appointments. Those patients without transportation were identified and connected to a ride-share service to help them get to prenatal and postpartum appoint ments. Additionally, food insecurity was identified as a critical social determinant of health for their patients. To overcome this barrier, the Ascension Sacred Heart Population Health team formed a food pantry to provide healthy staple items.

“We look forward to continued collaboration across our clinical enterprise to better serve our underserved popula tions,” Dr. Garrett-Ray said. “By working together, we can deliver more equitable care for the communities we serve.”

ASCENSION MEDICAL GROUP SCREENING TOOL HELPS ADDRESS SOCIAL NEEDS

Ascension’s commitment to being a national leader in the advancement of health equity is one of the most authentic expressions of our Mission, Vision and Values. Identifying social determinants of health (SDoH) is one important way to reduce preventable disparities in health outcomes.

This past June, Ascension Medical Group’s (AMG) standardized screening tool to help Ascension address social needs reached a major milestone — the 1 millionth screening.

“Advancing health equity begins by listening and understanding the needs of the populations we serve, especially those who are poor and vulnerable,” said Baligh Yehia, MD, MPP, FACP, Senior Vice President, Ascension, and President, Ascension Medical Group. “One million screenings is an incredible testament to our clinicians’ and associates’ commitment to providing equitable care.”

In January 2020, the standard screening tool was deployed at several AMG primary care clinics. The tool’s questions cover topics such as loneliness, violence, food insecurity, housing, education and financial issues — all things that can influence a patient’s overall health and well-being. Today, the tool is being used across all AMG primary care and some specialty offices including pediatrics and obstetrics practices.

Thanks to AMG’s collective efforts from its clinicians, associates and collaborators including the Ascension Data Science Institute, AMG is now conducting more than 85,000 SDoH assessments each month with its patients.

This work also supports the Ascension Strategic Plan’s emphasis on integrating Mission through community impact, particularly focusing on individuals who are poor or vulnerable. As Ascension looks to the future, we plan to expand the SDoH screening tool across all points of care including acute and post-acute care.

“By engaging with our patients, we learned directly from them what was preventing them from getting to their appointments, such as lack of child care and transportation.”

— ALLISON MCNEIL, MSN, CNM, SENIOR DIRECTORCOMMUNITY IMPACT, ASCENSION

Diversity in medicine

INAUGURAL ASCENSION EVENT FOCUSES ON CULTIVATING SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENTS FOR WOMEN CLINICIANS

A cross Ascension, inclu sion shows up in how we value differences, welcome individuals to serve with us, and ensure that each associate has the opportunity to attain their full potential and flourish in dignity as human persons.

In alignment with the System-wide framework of ABIDE, which is based on the interconnected hallmarks of Appreciation - BelongingnessInclusivity - Diversity - Equity, Ascension hosted its first Diversity in Medicine series with a special symposium focused on the topic, “Cultivating an Environment Where Women Can Thrive.”

Nearly 20 leaders and clinicians from across the ministry — representing an array of disciplines including clinical areas, Community Impact, Mission Integration, Advocacy, Marketing and Communications, Human Resources, Strategy, and more — worked together to plan and organize the symposium, which highlighted the important role of women clinicians and how to foster

a more inclusive and supportive community at Ascension.

The four-hour virtual symposium featured Ascension clinical leaders and a special guest speaker from the American College of Physicians, each highlighting a different aspect of supporting women clinicians and fostering an inclusive environment:

• American College of Physicians Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer Darilyn Moyer, MD, FACP, FRCP, FIDSA, served as the keynote speaker and presented “I Cannot Be What I Cannot See: Time to Unleash a JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion) Healthcare Environment.”

• Ascension Vice President of Emergency and Urgent Care Services Allison Bollinger, MD, FAAEM, presented “Building the Female Leader Pipeline.”

• Ascension Senior Vice President and Ascension Medical Group Pres ident Baligh Yehia, MD, MPP, FACP, and Ascension Florida and Gulf

Coast Chief Clinical Officer Estrellita Redmon, MD, MBA, FACP, presented “Moving the Needle: Mentorship, Sponsorship and Allyship.”

• Dell Medical School Professor, Department of Pediatrics Chair and Physician in Chief for Dell Children’s Medical Center, part of Ascension Texas, Z. Leah Harris, MD, presented “Communicating Your Value.”

• Ascension Indiana physician Kathleen Morris, DO, FACC, presented recommendations on “Retaining the Working Mom.”

“The inaugural Diversity in Medicine Symposium was well worth attending and certainly reinforced many areas that require expanding upon as we look at effective ways to become more diverse in medicine and healthcare executive leadership,” Dr. Redmon said. “Many attendees were familiar with the mentor-mentee relationships and now understand that developing sponsorship and allyship relationships is important in promoting diversity and inclusion.”

“The inaugural Diversity in Medicine Symposium was well worth attending and certainly reinforced many areas that require expanding upon as we look at effective ways to become more diverse in medicine and healthcare executive leadership.”

Estrellita Redmon, MD, MBA, FACP, Ascension Florida and Gulf Coast Chief Clinical Officer

Ascension Living is keeping the PACE with seniors

AT-HOME PROGRAM LEADS THE WAY IN CARING FOR THE VULNERABLE

Ascension’s Strategic Plan includes a focus on care outside the hospital. Programs that support care at home are one way we are providing high-quality care in the locations where our consumers need us most.

Ascension Living’s Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) helps seniors who need care and services pro vided in the home due to their health conditions or resources.

The unique PACE model of care helps adults 55 and older who are at high risk of hospitalization or other medical interventions to stay living in their home and the community they love. PACE’s wraparound care model combines in-home, virtual and on-site care that provides personalized engagement; convenient access; and enhanced navigation, scheduling, education and support.

“After several months of my mom being enrolled in the PACE program, I have seen such a huge change in her!” said Loraine Travis, daughter and caregiver of an Ascension Living PACE Michigan participant. “She now goes to the day center twice a week and really looks forward to it; she is really thriving with this type of interaction! I absolutely love and appreciate that all of her medical needs are taken care of right there at PACE, her medications are delivered promptly to our home, and she gets regular interventions with a nurse and social worker. I am so grateful for PACE and how it has changed our lives for the better.”

The main components — medical care, home care and adult day center services — are structured to foster independence for PACE participants and provide medical management and support for physiological, emotional/

psychological and social needs. PACE’s interdisciplinary team is made up of 11 healthcare professionals, including a physician, who work directly with program participants and their caregivers to provide care for all medically necessary preventive, primary, acute and long-term care services.

“This interdisciplinary approach allows PACE care teams to be proactive, responsive and creative in delivering participants’ care,” said Brian Cooper, Vice President of PACE Operations, Ascension Living. “And PACE provides participants and their families with peace of mind knowing a full team is there to support them through their health care journey.”

PACE was developed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to provide quality care and coverage. As a participant’s care needs increase, PACE programs can continue to provide services to support a participant’s body, mind and spirit through a proactive, coordinated care team. PACE helps participants enjoy their lives in the comfort of their home and community.

A progressive care model, PACE focuses on providing access to care for all by working with participants and providing the help they need when they need it, including: • Dedicated full clinical team including primary care provider, registered nurse and social worker.

• Transportation to the PACE medical clinic and medical appointments.

• In-home support for daily living activities, such as meal preparation, personal care, housekeeping and laundry.

• Physical and occupational therapy at the PACE center and independent programs, and all needed durable medical equipment while there.

• Socialization, activities, meals and outings through the PACE adult day center.

• Medications, medical supplies and durable medical equipment ordered and delivered to the participant.

• Extended support to the participant’s family caregiver through disease management education, 24-hour on-call availability, and medical and caregiver respite.

Ascension Living currently operates PACE programs in three locations — Ascension Living Alexian PACE in Chattanooga, Tennessee; Ascension Living HOPE in Wichita, Kansas; and Ascension Living PACE Michigan in Flint — and has plans to open its fourth location, Ascension Living St. Vincent PACE in Indianapolis, in 2022. The program is looking forward to expanding this option for seniors in more markets in the future. To learn more about Ascension Living PACE programs, visit ascensionliving.org/pace.

ALABAMA

Team donates baby formula

The Ascension St. Vincent’s Population Health team donated more than 280 cans of baby formula to three Birming ham organizations — Cahaba Medical, Christ Health and La Casita Guada lupan Multicultural Services. “Access to formula is an important community need, especially right now, and we are humbled to be a part of the response,” said Randy Granata, Vice President of Population Health, Ascension St. Vincent’s.

Leaders recognized Two Ascension leaders received top recognition from the Birmingham Busi ness Journal. Jason Alexander, Senior Vice President, Ascension, and Ministry Market Executive, Ascension Alabama, was among “Birmingham’s Power 60: Most Influential Executives.” Kristin Costanzo, Chief Human Resources Executive, was selected as a “Top 40 Under 40.”

BALTIMORE

Out to the ballgame

Ascension Saint Agnes treated more than 900 associates and their families to a Major League Baseball game in which the Baltimore Orioles took on the Tampa Bay Rays. Associates also enjoyed a treat during the game. Although the Baltimore Orioles lost, associates had the opportunity to win Orioles fan gear and collectibles in a raffle.

BINGHAMTON, NEW YORK

National award for environmental sustainability

Lourdes Hospital received the 2022 Partner for Change Award from Practice Greenhealth, the nation’s leading

organization dedicated to environmental sustainability in healthcare, in recogni tion of achievement and innovation in healthcare sustainability. The annual award honors superior performance in environmental sustainability, covering a range of sustainability programs and activities.

FLORIDA AND GULF COAST

Manager receives national award Barbara Dearmon, Manager of Oncology Support Services (Cancer Registry) at Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside, was honored with the 2022 National Cancer Registrars Association Distinguished Member Award for her outstanding contributions to the cancer registry profession.

New hospital opens Ascension St. Vincent’s St. Johns County in Florida opened this summer. Con struction on the $175 million hospital and an adjacent medical office building began two years ago. The hospital,

with 56 inpatient beds including eight intensive care unit beds, is in what many consider the fastest-growing county in the nation.

Ascension hospital on 100 Top Hospitals list

Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast in Miramar Beach, Florida, was named to the 100 Top Hospitals list based on an annual research study by Merative, formerly IBM Watson Health. It is the sixth time the hospital has received the recognition.

ILLINOIS

Physician receives award

Ana Gephart, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Ascension Saint Joseph –Eglin and an Ascension Medical Group primary care physician, was recognized as one of the best family physicians by the Kane County Best of the Fox Readers Choice Awards.

Recognition during pandemic Ascension Saint Alexius – Hoffman Estates recognized the two-and-ahalf-year anniversary of treating the country’s second identified COVID-19 patient. The initial care and response informed national protocols and operations developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Illinois Department of Public Health, and the Cook County Depart ment of Public Health. Leaders shared memories of battling the pandemic, expressing their deep appreciation for the dedication and courage of the nurses, physicians, infection control professionals, respiratory therapists and support staff who not only jumped into the unknown in those early days, but who continue to deal with COVID-19 today.

Barbara Dearmon, Manager of Oncology Support Services at Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside, in Jacksonville, Florida, was recognized with a 2022 National Cancer Registrars Association Distinguished Member Award.

NEWS

Cancer care expands

Community members and patients gathered with leaders and staff to bless and celebrate the opening of the Cancer Care Center addition to the Ascension Illinois Health Center – Romeoville, near Chicago. The facility offers 11 exam rooms dedicated to cancer care as well as 22 infusion chairs — 16 in private rooms and six in a common area.

INDIANA

New women and children’s tower

A ceremony was held to celebrate the groundbreaking for a new Women and Children’s Tower at Ascension St. Vincent and Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis.

Ascension St. Vincent Women’s Hospital will relocate to the new tower, which will also include 109 additional private neona tal intensive care rooms. This private-room model has become the standard of care, so moms and babies can be in the same room while receiving treatment.

Neighborhood hospital planned Ascension St. Vincent is expanding its presence in the West Lafayette, Indiana, area with a neighborhood hospital in the Discovery Park District at Purdue University. This medical facility will be the first to provide inpatient and emergency care within the city of West Lafayette and the first of several facilities that will comprise a medical complex on the Purdue University campus focusing on outpatient care.

Joint Commission award

Ascension St. Vincent Hospital was the fifth hospital in the nation, the first hospital in Indiana and the only Ascension ministry to earn The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Brain Tumor Certification, awarded for a two-year period.

Hospitals receive ‘A’ grade

Ascension St. Vincent Carmel, Ascension St. Vincent Fishers and Ascension St. Vincent Evansville each received an “A” Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade for spring 2022. This national distinction recognizes the achievements by these ministries to protect patients from preventable harm and medical errors.

Center achieves accreditation

The Ascension St. Vincent Evansville Bar iatric Surgery Center earned accreditation as a Comprehensive Center with Obesity Medicine Qualifications by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program, a joint quality program of the American College of Surgeons and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Hospitals noted for maternity care Ascension St. Vincent Carmel and Ascension St. Vincent Evansville were recognized in the 2022 America’s Best Maternity Hospitals list by Newsweek and data firm Statista.

Serenity Park opens Ascension St. Vincent Evansville hosted a blessing ceremony for its new Serenity

Park on the 150th anniversary of the ministry’s service to the community. The park was designed to create a place that nurtures the emotional health of associates and visitors through a private and tranquil setting.

School garden collaborative Ascension St. Vincent Evansville and several community groups received a Healthy Eating & Active Living grant from the Welborn Baptist Foundation to build a garden and outdoor learning space at Cedar Hall Community School in Evansville. This outdoor space helps increase access for students and the community to affordable, nutrient-rich vegetables and provides hands-on learning experiences about gardening.

KANSAS

Service offers free rides

The Care Van at Ascension Via Christi in Pittsburg is giving rides to those within 30 miles of Pittsburg who are in need of transportation to and from all Ascension Via Christi sites as well as private medical staff offices.

Participants take part in a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Women and Children’s Tower at Ascension St. Vincent and Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis.

Advanced imaging test

Ascension Via Christi in Manhattan is one of the few locations in Kansas to offer prostate-specific membrane antigen positron emission tomography studies. The studies are designed to detect positive lesions in the prostate, lymph nodes, bones and other parts of the body that different types of imaging scans may not pick up.

New cancer services

Ascension Via Christi continues to invest in new programs and services designed to find lung cancer at its earliest stage and begin treatment quickly, including a lung nodule clinic where patients are seen by a multidisciplinary team of specialists who develop and implement a treatment plan within seven to 14 days. A robotic-assisted system was added to locate and reach nodules as small as 1 millimeter with minimally invasive peripheral lung biopsies, as well as enhanced imaging software. A second lung cancer nurse navigator was also added to the Ascension Via Christi Cancer Outreach and Risk Assessment team.

Unit advances heart care Ascension Via Christi St. Francis’ 4SW was converted to a Cardiothoracic Progressive Care Unit. The conversion, undertaken in response to the consistent growth of the Ascension Via Christi St. Francis Cardiovascular Service Line, is designed to further improve quality outcomes for patients undergoing struc tural heart, vascular and cardiothoracic procedures and surgeries.

MICHIGAN

Hospital leads in stroke care Ascension St. Mary’s Hospital is among a select few U.S. hospitals using advanced robotic technology to care for those suffering a stroke. Physicians use

a robotic-assisted system that’s approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use with catheters, wires, balloons and stents during nonsurgical coronary and vascular procedures to open artery blockages and help improve blood flow. This innovative technology could lead to lifesaving remote stroke treatment in rural communities in the future.

Grant helps combat opioid crisis The buprenorphine team at Ascension Genesys Hospital received an $11,500 grant from the Michigan Pharmacy Foundation to help combat the opioid crisis in the community. The grant will be used to increase affordability of and access to naloxone and other medications for opioid use disorder, increase awareness for medication “Take Back Days,” and facilitate creation of a youth education program about recognizing signs and symptoms of opioid overdose and how naloxone can be used to save lives.

Hospital earns 3 stars

Ascension Borgess Hospital has earned a distinguished three-star rating from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons for its patient care and outcomes in aortic valve replacement combined with coronary artery bypass grafting. The three-star rating denotes the highest quality category.

Top maternity ranking Ascension Providence Hospital, Southfield Campus, was included in the America’s Best Maternity Hospitals 2022 list published by Newsweek. The hospital was ranked in the highest performance category, receiving five ribbons. The ratings are based on a national survey of hospital managers and maternity healthcare professionals, hospital performance data, and patient satisfaction data.

Physician receives award

Louis Saravolatz, MD, Chair of Internal Medicine at Ascension St. John Hospital, received the 2021 Alvan R. Feinstein Memorial Award from the American College of Physicians. This award honors the late Dr. Feinstein, who was internationally recognized as the father of clinical epidemiology.

Dogs benefit from Stop Food Waste Day In honor of Stop Food Waste Day, the TouchPoint Food and Nutrition Services team at Ascension River District Hospital found a creative way to use outdated blueberries and bananas. The fruit, along with other ingredients, was used to make healthy dog biscuits for associates to take home for their dogs.

Go Clear Award received The Association of periOperative Registered Nurses presented Ascension Macomb-Oakland Hospital, Warren Campus, the AORN Go Clear Award™ –

Dr. Louis Saravolatz, Chair of Internal Medicine at Ascension St. John Hospital, was honored with the 2021 Alvan R. Feinstein Memorial Award.

Gold Level, which recognizes healthcare facilities committed to a surgical smokefree environment for their perioperative team and patients.

Safety Day educates community

Ascension St. Joseph Hospital asso ciates and volunteers participated in a Water and Sun Safety Day at Tawas Point U.S. Coast Guard Station in East Tawas. The free, family-oriented event educated individuals about how to stay safe during the summer while on the water and outdoors in the sun. Oncology services staff offered sun safety tips and sunscreen, nutritional staff highlighted the importance of staying hydrated, and volunteers provided complimentary snacks.

OKLAHOMA

New wound clinic

Dignitaries and associates celebrated the opening of the Ascension St. John Sapulpa Wound Clinic. The clinic delivers inpatient and outpatient care, including ultrasonic and negative pressure vacuum therapies, epidermal autografting, and infection management and prevention.

TENNESSEE

Award received for stroke care Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital received the American Heart Associa tion’s Get With The Guidelines – AFIB Gold quality achievement award for its commitment to managing atrial fibrillation (AFib).

Geriatric emergency care The Emergency Department at Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital West became the first in the state to receive accreditation by the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) for geriatric care. ACEP’s Geriatric Emergency Depart ment Accreditation Program recognizes departments that offer specialized care

The Ascension Saint Thomas Rehabilitation Hospital in Tennessee provides a gym with advanced technologies including a smart car to help patients learn car transfer skills year-round.

The new Ascension St. John Sapulpa Wound Clinic in Oklahoma provides inpatient and outpatient care.

for patients age 65 and older. With the Level 3 accreditation, the department will continue to serve adult patients of all ages while integrating best practices for geriatric care as outlined by ACEP.

Rehab hospital opens Ascension Saint Thomas, with Kindred Rehabilitation Services, a business unit of LifePoint Health, began accepting patients at its new 40-bed rehabilitation hospital, which provides care for individuals recovering from stroke, traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries, surgeries, and similar conditions.

Nursing fellowship begins Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown launched its Labor and Delivery (L&D) Fellowship Program, an oppor tunity to educate, equip and encourage new L&D nurses through evidence-based education, interactive programming and multidisciplinary input. The yearlong program focuses on physiologic birth, positioning and labor support, birth equity and inclusion, and obstetric emergencies.

TEXAS

Level IV redesignation

Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin has been redesignated a level IV maternal care facility by the

Texas Department of State Health Services EMS/Trauma Systems Office. To achieve this designation, a hospital must provide comprehensive care for pregnant and postpartum patients, from low-risk cases to the most complex medical, surgical and obstetrical conditions that present a higher risk of maternal morbidity or mortality.

Dell Children’s Medical Center celebrates anniversary Dell Children’s Medical Center cele brated the 15th anniversary of opening its doors to serve children with medical concerns. Associates celebrated as teams rounded throughout the hospital with carts filled with prizes, drinks, snacks and special treats. Each depart ment also received a “party in a bag” kit that included photo booth props for associates to post pictures on a Kudoboard created to highlight this special day and to share memories of Dell Children’s.

Scott Herndon named top CFO Scott Herndon was recognized by the Austin Business Journal as the top nonprofit Chief Financial Officer in Austin. A panel of judges including other local, respected CFOs reviewed the applications to determine winners. Scott is now Senior Vice President, Operational Finance, Ascension.

First autonomic lab opens Dell Children’s Medical Center opened a Pediatric Autonomic Lab, the first of its kind in Central Texas. The laboratory is jointly overseen by Manikum Moodley, MD, who previously served as the direc tor of the pediatric vascular autonomic lab at the Cleveland Clinic, and Veda Vedanarayanan, MD, who oversaw the Electromyography and Autonomic Laboratory at the University of Mississippi Medical Center.

WISCONSIN

Dr. Jay Balachandran recognized Jay Balachandran, MD, pulmonologist with Ascension Medical Group Wiscon sin, was recognized among “Wisconsin’s 35 Most Influential Asian-American Leaders“ by Madison 365.

Top doctors recognized More than 200 Ascension Wisconsin physicians were recognized as “Top Doctors” by Milwaukee Magazine. The complete list features physicians from Ascension Medical Group Wisconsin, Madison Medical Affiliates, Midwest Orthopedic Specialty Hospital and Orthopaedic Hospital of Wisconsin, all affiliated with Ascension Wisconsin.

designation from Institutional Investor, a leading international business to business publisher focused primarily on international finance.

ASCENSION LIVING

Memory support residence opens Ascension Living Bethlehem Woods Village in La Grange Park, Illinois, celebrated the grand opening of its assisted living memory support residence. The newly renovated space is designed around what is familiar and comforting to residents with dementia in a cottage-like setting. From color choices to noise control, lighting, table designs and room layouts, everything was taken into consideration to honor each resident’s unique needs. The new wing offers 20 apartments.

ASCENSION RX

New Chief Pharmacy Officer named Michael Wascovich, PharmD, MBA, RPh, was named Vice President, Ascension, and Chief Pharmacy Officer, Ascension Rx Pharmacy Services. Michael is leading all aspects of Ascension Rx Pharmacy Services, including business and opera tional strategy and oversight; medication safety and quality; internal and external collaborative partnerships; and con tinuous enhancements to the patient and clinician experience. Michael has a wealth of pharmacy operations and business experience, having served most recently as Vice President at Premier, Inc., and earlier at the Cleveland Clinic.

COMMUNITY HEALTH MINISTRIES

Dr. Jay Balachandran, Ascension Medical Group Wisconsin.

ASCENSION INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT

Advocacy award recipient

Ascension Investment Management received the Advocate of the Year

Center receives top ratings

The Population Health team at DePaul Community Health Centers (DCHC) in New Orleans has focused on improving

Brenda Lasater, Seton Center Dental Director, center, receives the Reaching Out For Excellence in Dental Health Award from the University of Missouri Kansas City Dental Hygienists’ Alumni Association honoring her longtime work supporting the community in Kansas City, Missouri.

its medication adherence rates with Medicare Advantage plans. The project, led by Jeanne Alleman, Population Health RN, works proactively with patients and payers. As a result, DCHC’s medication adherence improved significantly.

Director receives award

The University of Missouri Kansas City Dental Hygienists’ Alumni Association honored Brenda Lasater, Seton Center Dental Director, with its Reaching Out For Excellence in Dental Health Award. Brenda was recognized for her impact on the Kansas City, Missouri, community through her time and commitment for the past 23 years.

MEDXCEL FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

Supporting the Net Zero Places effort

Medxcel is supporting Ascension’s Net Zero Places effort to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2040 with the addition of electric vehicles (EVs) for use at Ascension St. Vincent Anderson in Indiana and Ascension

Via Christi in Kansas. The team is exploring features of the vehicles including battery range and overall functionality and is continuously learning about the availability and capabilities of technology around EVs/ hybrids for future opportunities.

THE RESOURCE GROUP Internship program marks a decade

Last August, The Resource Group wrapped up the 10th summer of its internship program, a highly sought-after opportunity in which 600 applicants competed for 35 positions this year. Through immersive learning experi ences, The Resource Group delivered career-applicable experience while also realizing value through the comple tion of 17 complex, cross-functional projects. By investing in interns, The

Resource Group is cultivating the next generation of leaders for future roles within the Ascension subsidiary.

The internship program at The Resource Group provides an immersive learning environment and career-applicable experience for 35 participants every year.

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Carolyn LeFevre Athletic Trainer Ascension Via Christi

Carolyn LeFevre, an Ascension Via Christi athletic trainer, has served at Wichita West High School in Kansas for more than two decades.

During that time, Carolyn has had many memorable moments caring for student athletes, including helping save the life of a fan who suffered a heart attack at a West High alumni football game. So it was only fitting that Carolyn’s name was included on the high school’s new Pioneer Society Hall of Fame wall.

“The students at West High School respect Carolyn so very much,” said Travis Francis, longtime director of Ascension Via Christi Sports Medicine. “They adore her and she loves each one of them equally.”

Carolyn said seeing her name on the wall affirms the midlife career change she made in 2020 after earning her national certification in 1997. Having previously earned national certifica tion as a clinical chemist, she worked for more than a decade in the Ascension Via Christi St. Francis laboratory. While working on her athletic training certification, she worked as a hospital switchboard operator prior to becoming one of the first group of athletic trainers dedicated to serving local high schools.

“It was quite a surprise,” said Carolyn, who noted that her athletic director told her about it two weeks in advance of the dedication ceremony. “While some plaques have more than one name, he wanted mine to be an individual one.”

ASCENSION