2020 Annual Report
Leading the way...
From the Director
1 | Columbia VA HCS Annual Report
Dear VA Family and Friends, The Columbia VA Health Care System is proud to care for our brave men and women who have served their country to safeguard our freedom. It is our mission and our duty to provide them with quality, timely health care, and an exceptional patient experience. 2020 has been a challenging year for us all, but the Columbia VA and its staff have risen to meet that challenge with extraordinary courage and resilience in order to deliver the best health care for our Veterans. From the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Columbia VA has focused on maintaining the safety of its Veterans and staff while continuing to provide high quality care. This includes increasing telehealth appointments; implementing strict screening and safety measures; installing touchless soap and hand sanitizer stations throughout the hospital; and reducing unnecessary foot traffic, all of which have helped to prevent the spread of the virus at our facilities.
If this pandemic taught us one thing this year, it is that telehealth works. It has become a vital resource for patients. A year ago, virtual care represented a small portion of the way we saw our Veterans. Telehealth is now more than 50% of our patient volume. Veterans have expressed their appreciation and excitement over the ability to see their providers while not having to leave their homes. It has been amazing to see what a massive benefit these virtual care options have provided. Moving forward this will be our new standard as my goal is to have 60% of all services being provided through virtual care in 2021. This year has not only been incredibly tough for our Veterans, but for our communities-at-large as well. Throughout 2020, the Columbia VA has stepped up to offer needed assistance and support across the Southeast.
• • • • • • Thanks to our great partners such as the South Carolina Hospital Association, South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC), Roche Diagnostics, and the four state Veterans’ engagement boards, the lift for our team was much lighter. In March, the Columbia VA was approved as one of the first VA facilities for high volume COVID-19 testing using its Roche Analyzer. By the end of 2020, the facility has performed nearly 45,000 COVID tests for VA facilities in Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina as well as for the seven state Veterans’ nursing homes residents and staff. Additionally, the Columbia VA has donated more than 170,000 items of critically needed personal protective equipment to community partners including the SCDHEC, the Catawba Nation, and state Veterans’ homes.
an environment of trust and confidence to improve Veterans’ care. I am unbelievably proud of the tremendous commitment and teamwork that each of my employees demonstrates every day as we continue to strive to be the best VA in the nation. As we look to the future, I am excited to announce that the Columbia VA is focused on providing the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to all our enrolled Veterans that are interested in being vaccinated. Once larger quantities are available, our primary care teams will reach out to interested Veterans to schedule their vaccinations when appropriate. Veterans can go to https://www. va.gov/health-care/covid-19vaccine/ to learn more about VA’s vaccine distribution plan and for other frequently asked questions. From this website, Veterans can also sign up, through VA’s “Stay Informed” tool, to express their interest in receiving a vaccine. Please note that Veterans do not need to “reserve” a vaccine. In the meantime, I encourage everyone to continue the 3-Ws: Wear your mask; Wash your hands; and Watch your distance. I look forward to continuing the momentum. The Columbia VA HCS is committed to providing world-class health care for our Veterans and together we will shape a bright future.
David L. Omura, DPT, MHA, MS Columbia VA HCS Director/CEO
2 | Columbia VA HCS Annual Report
In spite of such a challenging year, our growth and development plans have remained undeterred. We continue to expand our services and expand our footprint to reach as many Veterans in South Carolina as possible. Veterans now have unprecedented access to VA care, and the Columbia VA has demonstrated that commitment through our more than $190 million in new/ongoing capital improvement projects including, but not limited to: four new, state-of-theart replacement CBOCs (Florence, Rock Hill, Orangeburg, Sumter) a new primary care annex a new prosthetics building a new rehabilitation building a new sensory aids center a new Fisher House New state-of-the-art facilities such as these will significantly help us to deliver more advanced services to Veterans throughout the state where they can be proud to receive their care. Even with COVID-19, the Columbia VA HCS still was able to be recognized nationally. Among many achievements this year, the Columbia VA won three national VA awards: the VA Patient Experience Award for Cultural Innovation; the VA Excellence Award in Social Work Leadership; and the VA Excellence Award for Voluntary Service. Additionally, the Columbia VA was awarded the South Carolina Hospital Association’s Drive to Zero Harm Leadership Award. Awards such as these confirm that the Columbia VA is a leader in delivering quality health care services and cultivating
Executive Leadership
Pentad
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Director/CEO
Associate Director/COO
David L. Omura was appointed Director/ CEO for the Columbia VA Health Care System on March 19, 2017.
Jeffrey A. Soots was appointed as the Associate Director for the Columbia VA Health Care System on July 19, 2017.
Dr. Omura has more than 25 years of experience working in health care. Early on in his career, he worked in the private sector for a total of nine years, which included clinical and management roles at the University of Florida Health System. Following his career in the private sector, he has gone on to serve in leadership roles at both the Gainesville and Columbia VA Health Care systems, spanning a total of 16 years.
Mr. Soots is an U.S. Air Force Veteran and has more than 30 years of logistics and administrative experience in a variety of health care organizations. During his 25 years of service in , Soots served in Japan, Alaska and Hawaii. His positions included director of Consolidated Storage and Pacific Air Force Propulsion superintendent. He began his VA career in 2012 as the chief logistics officer at the Columbia VA Health Care System. During his tenure he created acquisition officers to assist in procurement, which is practiced throughout the VHA.
Dr. Omura holds a Master of Science in physical therapy from Boston University, a Master in Health Care Administration from the University of Florida, and a doctorate in physical therapy from Mass General Hospital Institute of Health Professions. He is active in several organizations, boards, and committees, to include: the South Carolina Hospital Association, the American Hospital Association, the American Heart Association and the Federal Asian Pacific American Council. He also serves as Adjunct Faculty at the Columbia VA’s local affiliate, the University of South Carolina.
Mr. Soots holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Hawaii Pacific University. He is the chair of several health care committees to include the VISN Emergency Preparedness Committee. He is a board member of the South Carolina Hospital Association and the Georgialina Federal Healthcare Executive Council. He also oversees the Columbia VA HCS, Angel Food pantry which remains open 24/7.
Chief of Staff Dr. Bernard L. DeKoning was appointed Chief of Staff for the Columbia VA Health Care System on January 26, 2014.
Dr. DeKoning holds a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry and biology from the University of Illinois and a doctor of medicine from Rush Medical College in 1982. He went on to complete a Family Medicine residency in 1985 at Rush Presbyterian St. Luke’s Medical Center in Chicago. Dr. DeKoning is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians, Uniformed Services Academy of Family Physicians, American College of Physician Executives, and the Association of the United States Army.
Ruth Mustard was appointed as the Associate Director for Patient Care and Nursing Services for the Columbia VA Health Care System in November 1999. Dr. Mustard has more than 40 years of experience as a nursing leader in VA. She began her career as a graduate nurse technician in 1977 and has served in positions such as staff nurse, head nurse, assistant chief, night supervisor, and nurse executive. Dr. Mustard graduated from Marymount College of Kansas in Salina, Kansas, in 1977 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing. She received a Master of Science degree in nursing administration from the University Of South Carolina College of Nursing in 1996 and received her doctorate of nursing practice in 2020 from the University of South Carolina. She holds professional memberships in the South Carolina Organization of Nurse Leaders, American Organization of Nurse Executives, Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, South Carolina Nurses Association, and the American Nurses Association.
Assistant Director Sterling Bird was appointed as the Assistant Director for the Columbia VA Health Care System in August 2020. Mr. Bird began his VA career in 2009, and has served in multiple positions of increasing responsibility throughout the Columbia VA Health Care System. Prior to his VA career, Mr. Bird served in the U.S. Army for seven years. Mr. Bird received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of South Carolina in 2001, and a Masters in Health Care Administration from the Medical University of South Carolina in 2012. Mr. Bird is also a graduate of the facility LEAD and the VISN 7 VALUE programs.
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Dr. DeKoning served in the U.S. Army for 28 years, which included tours as a staff family physician, medical advisor to senior military commanders, commanding officer at medical treatment facilities, and a commanding officer at a biodefense research laboratory. He retired from the Army in 2013 and joined the Columbia VA leadership team in 2014.
Associate Director for Nursing/Patient Services
National & Regional Awards
Leading the way...
5 | Columbia VA HCS Annual Report
AWARD VA Patience Experience Cultural Innovation
Patient Experience Award
Columbia (SC) VA Recognized for Three National Awards By Marlous Black, public affairs specialist
The Department of Veterans Affairs recognized the Columbia VA Health Care System (HCS) for three national VA awards – the VA Patient Experience Award for Cultural Innovation; the Excellence Award in Social Work Leadership; and the 2020 Excellence Award for Voluntary Service.
In a national, virtual VA Patient Experience Awards event, the Department of Veterans Affairs announced that Columbia VA won first place in the Cultural Innovation Category of the VA Patient Experience Awards for its Living Every Moment Optimistically Nonstop and Defying Expectations (LEMONADE) Pledge Program. The program is dedicated to improving the patient experience for Veterans. The winner of this category demonstrates positive values, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors that allow a facility to effectively deliver quality health care in a safe and reliable environment. The Columbia VA was among eight finalists out of 170 VA medical centers. The LEMONADE program was designed for employees to hardwire trust and commitment to South Carolina Veterans in everything that they do. By making a pledge, employees are tasked with bringing about a more positive patient experience, delivering excellent customer service, and increasing Veterans’ trust in the care the Columbia VA provides.
“I could not be prouder of the Columbia VA family for their continued hard work a for the Columbia VA HCS. “Through this program, our staff has created a shared c and deliver the best health care possible for our veterans.”
EXCELLENCE AWARD Social Work Leadership
Excellence in Social Work Award
Voluntary Service
Excellence for Voluntary Service Award Tammy Finney, Chief, Community Relations and Engagement service at the Columbia VA, was selected as the 2020 Excellence Award winner for the VA Voluntary Service (VAVS). Finney was selected from more than 450 VAVS national employees. She has been recognized by top VA officials as a leader who continues to raise the bar and encourages staff to reach their highest potential in serving Veterans. The Columbia VA is a leader in delivering quality health care services because its leadership cultivates an environment of trust and confidence, which increases morale and in turn, greatly improves care for Veterans. “I am so grateful for the passionate and talented employees at the Columbia VA,” said David Omura. “Receiving three national awards at one outstanding VA is not an easy feat, especially during these challenging times. I encourage veterans to come to us and experience an award-winning patient experience.”
and dedication to their LEMONADE Pledges,” said David Omura, director and chief executive officer culture of commitment that drives consistent behaviors to improve the overall patient experience
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Sherree Colvin, Chief, Social Work at the Columbia VA, received the Under Secretary for Health’s Award for Excellence in Social Work Leadership. What this means is that out of thousands of VA Social Workers who provide exceptional service across our great nation, Columbia VA has the best one right here in Columbia, S.C.
EXCELLENCE AWARD
Service Chiefs
Leading the way...
7 | Columbia VA HCS Annual Report
Danette Wood Associate Nurse Executive, Ambulatory Care
George Bumgardner Chief, Dental Service
Karen Collins Chief, Business Office
Eddie Davis Chief, Chaplain Service
Catherine Sinay Chief, Finance
John Frutchey Chief, Geriatrics & Extended Care
Yolanda Charles Associate Nurse Executive Surgical Care Service
Kiera Wilson Chief, Human Resources
Tracy Burke Chief, Nutrition and Food Service
LaBon Hardy Area Manager, Office of Information and Technology
Jailan Osman Chief, Pathology
Mary Lynn Bush Chief, Pharmacy
Michael J. Ryan Chief of Staff, Research
Andrea Boyd Associate Nurse Executive, Education & Research
Jeffrey Brown Chief, Safety & Emergency Management Service
Sherree Colvin Chief, Social Work Service
Evetta Gregg Chief, Stakeholder Relations
Michael Faircloth Chief, Emergency Department
B. James McCallum Associate Chief of Staff, Education
Lincoln Bonds Chief, Environmental Management Service
Christopher Zell Chief, Engineering
Lynette Guice Chief, Logistics
Stuart Smith Acting Chief, Medicine
Nael Alghothani Chief, Anesthesiology Service
Belton Caughman Chief, Mental Health
Patricia Dzandu Associate Nurse Executive Mental Health
Robert Marino Acting Chief, Non-VA Coordinated Care
Mehr Ahmed Chief, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Michael Schausten Chief, VA Police Service
Rebeca FloresMorales Chief, Primary Care
Cheryl Burns Chief, Prosthetics & Sensory Aid Service
Bridget Schausten Chief, Quality Management Service
Jacquette Caldwell Chief, Radiology
Thaddeus Jennings Chief, Sterile Processing Service
Tom Erath Chief, Veterans Canteen Service
Christopher Wood Executive Director, Dorn Research Institute
James Nottingham Chief, Surgical Care Service
VACANT Associate Nurse Executive Geriatrics & Extended Care
VACANT Associate Nurse Executive, Medicine
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Tammy Finney Chief, Community Relations and Engagement
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VA Secretary Robert Wilkie makes a visit to the Columbia VA By Dillon McConnell , public affairs specialist
Recognizes VA staff for their continued service to Veterans. Department of Veterans Affairs’ Secretary Robert Wilkie stopped by the Columbia VA Health Care System (HCS) to tour the hospital and its sprawling, historic 97-acre campus. The secretary had a singular purpose for the trip: to show his gratitude for the Columbia VA’s staff’s continued perseverance and excellent service to our Veterans.
In an interview with Columbia’s WVOC radio station, Wilkie said, “The folks here in Columbia have gone above and beyond when it comes to not only serving Veterans, but the people of South Carolina. We’ve been in places like the Catawba Nation, we’ve sent out nurses, doctors and PPE in to nursing homes across the Palmetto State. I am thanking them for always being online and on-duty.”
Secretary Wilkie (left) thanks Dr. Rebeca Flores-Morales (right), chief of primary care, for her staff’s continued service to veterans. David Omura (back left), medical center director, and Jeff Soots (back right), associate director, for the Columbia VA Medical Center.
Accompanied by Columbia VA HCS Director and CEO David Omura, and the Acting VISN 7 Network Director Joe Battle, Wilkie began the tour at the main COVID-19 Screening Area. He thanked Veterans for their service and acknowledged the workers for their selfless support for our Veterans throughout the pandemic. “Meeting with Secretary Wilke was a high point in my VA career,” said Ron Aderhold, supervisor, Red Coat Ambassadors. “He took the time to meet with each Ambassador, talked with them about their military career, and expressed to them how vital they are to our Veterans and the Columbia VA.”
Meeting with Front-Line Staff
During his visit, Wilkie met with front-line workers to hear directly what the Columbia VA is doing to combat COVID-19 as well as what the facility is doing to increase access to quality health care for South Carolina Veterans. The staff was humbled by Wilkie’s generosity, exemplified by the significance of his visit, and for taking the time to talk to frontline employees, the real heroes of the facility.
“Despite the challenges faced during the pandemic, primary care continued to deliver outstanding health care to Veterans,” said Nick Beach, nurse manager, primary care.“
“I felt honored and appreciated by Secretary Wilkie for stopping by to say, ‘thank you’,” said Patricia Haynes, food service worker, Veterans Canteen Service. “Especially during this pandemic, it felt good to be recognized for the work that I do to serve our Veterans every day. It speaks volumes when the VA secretary takes the time out of his busy schedule to speak with our front-line heroes. I truly appreciate and am grateful that our senior leadership cares about its staff.”
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“My staff and I were very appreciative for the secretary’s recognition of our hard work and dedication to our Veterans,” said Dr. Rebeca Flores-Morales, chief of primary care. “We are glad that he saw, firsthand, the passion and commitment of our employees in how we take care of our Veterans.”
Milestones
Leading the way...
11 | Columbia VA HCS Annual Report
Columbia VA surpasses 79,107 VA Video Connect encounters in FY2020 VA Video Connect visits increased significantly nationwide during COVID-19 pandemic. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced that video telehealth appointments to Veterans’ homes increased significantly, as Veterans increasingly chose virtual care through VA Video Connect during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Columbia VA Health Care System conducted 79,107 VA Video Connect appointments in fiscal year 2020.
VA Video Connect allows Veterans and their caregivers to meet virtually with their VA care teams on any computer, tablet, or mobile device with an internet connection. As inperson interactions decreased in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, VA Video Connect supported Veterans’ abilities to continue care and remain safely at home. Usage of video to home services increased throughout 2020 with peak usage reaching more than 29,000 appointments per day across VA nationwide. “I couldn’t be more satisfied with using the VA’s video service for my appointments,” said Jason New, an Army Veteran enrolled at the Columbia VA HCS. “Being able to see and speak to my providers from the convenience of my own home has been a huge benefit in managing my busy schedule to receive my medical care.”
Columbia VA HCS Clinical Video Telehealth National Ranking
#5
Columbia VA HCS Home Telehealth National Ranking
#2
Columbia VA HCS Telehealth Use National Ranking
#7
of 170 facilities
Columbia VA HCS CVT to Offsite Patient National Ranking
#7
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VA is also taking strides to bridge the digital divide for Veterans who lack the technology or broadband internet connectivity required to participate in VA telehealth services. At the national level, VA is working with strategic partners, through the VA Secretary’s Center of Strategic Partnerships, to
increase access to the technology that Veterans need to connect with their VA health care team virtually. “During these challenging times, the Columbia VA continues to maintain access to high-quality health care for Veterans,” said David Omura, director and chief
executive officer for the Columbia VA HCS. “As telehealth and VA Video Connect become more popular, we remain committed to providing a seamless user experience to ensure Veterans have access to care where, and when they need it.”
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CVAHCS women’s health medical director accepted into prestigious nursing academy By Robert Hall, public affairs specialist
In August, Kahlil Demonbreun received word he was selected to be inducted into the 2020 Class of Fellows for the American Academy of Nursing.
2020 Class of Fellows for the American Academy of Nursing
Then in October, the Academy hosted a virtual induction ceremony, officially announcing the newest Fellows chosen from a pool of candidates which spanned “38 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. territory of Guam, as well as 13 countries,” according to a press release published by the Academy. Though the Academy reviewed hundreds of applications from nurses around the world, Demonbreun was one of 230 distinguished nurse leaders selected based on contributions to advance the public’s health. “To be a Fellow in the Academy is probably the greatest honor of my career,” Demonbreun said, “second only to the privilege of caring for humanities’ most precious patients, who are women.” Demonbreun, who hails from Detroit, Michigan, is currently the Women’s Health medical director for the Columbia VA Health Care System and has been a nurse caring of women for more than 30 years, six of which he has served with the VA. As the Women’s Health medical director, he maintains a daily clinical practice while leading a dedicated team of nearly 40 health care providers across the state providing care for more than 9,000 female Veterans.
He says his vision is to continue striving to provide excellent care for our women Veterans because it is what they deserve – nothing less than the best. “We do recognize there are specific challenges you (women Veterans) may face, but we are here to serve you because you have served us,” he added. “When you work around excellence all day, you strive for excellence yourself.” “Being the first nurse practitioner to be the Women’s Health medical director in the history of the VA inspires me to reach higher heights,” said Rose Hutson, Columbia VA Women’s Health program manager. “It is an honor and a privilege to work daily with him. He is a women’s health provider who has dedicated his entire career to the wellbeing of women. He has faced many challenges but has overcome them all. Striving to exceed excellence is a motto he lives by and he has.”
“I believe I’m truly meant to serve here,” Demonbreun added. “I came here to learn more about women’s health as a grad student in 1996 and 1997, and to come back here and be asked to come on staff as the women’s health medical director…how could I not say that ‘I’m meant to serve here. “Nothing makes me prouder than serving women who have served our country.”
Women Veterans
Our Women Veterans 14 | Columbia VA HCS Annual Report
Women Veterans are assigned to a designated Women’s Health Primary Care Provider who can provide general primary care and is specially trained or experienced in women’s care.
Whole Health-It’s All About You VA’s Whole Health System offers women Veterans proactive and personalized health care— empowering you to achieve your greatest level of health and well-being. Whole Health means the Whole You. From integrative health approaches like stress reduction, nutrition, and health coaching, to traditional clinical care and complementary health approaches—your journey to Whole Health starts here.
9,753
45-64
Women Veterans at Columbia VA
Age range
40
100+
Women health care providers
Gynecological surgeries
Columbia VA Health Care System JAN
In January the Columbia VA HCS placed a large focus on our women Veterans, including holding a Women Veteran Enrichment Seminar for the Florence, Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Marlboro, Marion and Williamsburg Country areas
MAY FEB
What a great week at the Columbia VA Health Care System. As part of the local effort for the National Salute to Veterans Patients, several local community leaders, groups, and organizations visited with Veterans at the Columbia VA health Care System February 10 to 14.
MAR
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) Staff at Dorn VA Medical Center make changes to protect Veterans from potential COVID-19 exposure. An overview of what the Columbia VA Health Care System has done to protect Veteran patients by screening at the main entrance.
APR
Columbia VA Medical Center has the capabilities to test high-risk patients for COVID-19. Emergency Blood Drive held at the Columbia VA Medical Center on April 7. As employees arrived at the Columbia VA Medical Center on the morning April 3, they were greeted with cheers and a box of Girl Scout cookies donated by Soldiers’ Angels.
Gigi Woods, Redcoat Ambassador, shares her thoughts about the community appreciation parade with Mr. Omura, Medical Center Director.
JUN
As one of the fastest growing Veteran populations, women Veterans remain one of our top clinical priorities at the Columbia VA. We are proud to offer and deliver the best quality health care to women Veterans. The VA offered Women’s Health Transition Training sessions through Adobe Connect twice per day in June and July. The training educated servicewomen on women’s health care services available from the VA.
JUL
Recovered Marines spoke to AARP about their experience battling COVID-19 together, and how the Columbia VA Health Care System and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs helped them to overcome the disease. We are grateful for our Veterans’ recoveries, and are honored to have been able to take care of them. During these challenging times, the Columbia VA continued to offer the best health care to our nation’s Veterans.
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AUG
The Columbia VA Health Care System received a truck-full of non-perishable items donated by Carolina Honda and Carolina Chrome Magazine to help Veterans in need around the state. Donations were taken at an event at Carolina Honda. We are thankful to the Columbia community for coming together to generously support our Veterans.
2020 Timeline SEP
September is Suicide Prevention Month. Columbia VA Health Care System offers suicide prevention. Pyschiatrist Dr. Peter Warren talks about programs available to Veterans. One Veterans talks about his experience how Columbia VA helped him during callenging times.
OCT
The South Carolina Hospital Association (SCHA) announced that David Omura is the winner of the 2020 Drive to Zero Harm Leadership Award, a recognition given to the South Carolina health care leader who demonstrates extraordinary commitment to creating a culture of high reliability to eliminate harm from all facets of care.
The Drive to
ZER
HARM
Leadership Award Dr. David Omura
Columbia VA Health Care System 2020
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NOV
The Columbia VA is now making robotic surgery possible with the Da Vinci XI robotic surgical system. Veterans receive minimally invasive procedures with incredible precision and quicker recoveries, and are loving their outcomes.
DEC
Dr. Albert Thomas, a U.S. Army Veteran, is the first Columbia VA patient to receive the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, at the Columbia VA Health Care System, Dec. 22, 2020.
Leading the way...
Robotics
Columbia VA provides life-changing technology with robotic surgery By Dillon McConnell and Marlous Black, public affairs specialist
Leading to better outcomes for Veterans Can you imagine having a thoracic surgery and returning to your normal daily activities within a few days? The Columbia VA Health Care System (HCS) is now making that possible with the Da Vinci XI robotic surgical system. This provides Veterans receive minimally invasive procedures with incredible precision and quicker recoveries. Dr. Kurt Fichtner, cardiothoracic surgeon at the Columbia VA HCS and retired U.S. Army colonel, is passionate about providing this transformative technology for Veterans.
Life-changing technology in action “Veterans should feel confident and comfortable that the Columbia VA has a state-ofthe-art method for performing general and thoracic surgery,” Fichtner said. “Robotic surgery offers incredible benefits for our Veterans including less chances of complications, shorter hospital stays, and most importantly, equal or better results compared to older surgical methods.” Using the robotic system, the surgeon makes four small incisions – about the size of a paperclip, where the four robotic arms are inserted. The surgeon operates the robot from an arcade-like control panel to perform the needed surgery. This sharply contrasts with previous methods of invasive procedures, which would require a lengthy hospital admission and a long recovery. Veterans are seeing for themselves the positive outcomes of robotic surgery. The complications are low, and Veterans are often able to return to their regular activities less than a week after surgery.
“Our surgical team is an innovative forward-thinking group of medical professionals looking for ways to provide the best quality care. I am proud to say that I am a member of the Columbia VA surgical team providing innovative changes and positive outcomes for our Veterans.”
Reggie Thomas is an Army National Guard Veteran who served in the military from 1988-1996. He served a combat tour in Operation Desert Storm from December 1990 to August 1991. He is currently a quality control director for a construction company.
“Robotic surgery is the only way to go”
-Yolanda Charles
“I wanted to mow the yard on Saturday, but my wife wouldn’t let me,” Thomas said “In the past, my surgery would’ve required having my chest cracked open. Not anymore! This robotic surgery at the VA is the only way to go.” Wayne Bowers, an Army veteran, said, “I had a need to use the Columbia VA for a thoracic robotic surgery. When I met with the staff for pre-surgery consultation, I was relieved to learn that my hospital stay would decrease from weeks to 24 hours. After the surgery, I returned to my normal activities within two days and did not need to use narcotic pain medication. I would be confident in recommending this type of surgery to anyone who needed it.” Since the beginning of March 2020, Fichtner and the robotic surgical team have performed more 60 robotic surgeries.
Da Vinci robotic assisted surgery. Photo courtesy of davincisurgery.com
Emphasizing the incredible teamwork, Fichtner explained, “It is only with the cohesion of the entire team and support of management that we have had such success with the robotic
surgeries. Fichtner continued, “We work really hard to give our Veterans the best quality of care. I want to give my fellow Veterans the care that they deserve.”
Over the next year, the Columbia VA plans to substantially grow the robotic surgical program. “I am very proud of the significant growth and success of this program,” said David Omura, director and chief executive officer for the Columbia VA. “Our Veterans are having spectacular outcomes with these surgeries. We hope to increase the number of general surgery and thoracic cases, but also explore the possibility of adding robotic urogenital and gynecological surgeries.”
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Army National Guard Veteran Reginald Thomas had robotic surgery to remove a mass in his chest on a Thursday, was discharged on Friday and returned to work the following Tuesday.
To the future…
COVID-19 Response
Leading the way...
17 | Columbia VA HCS Annual Report
Regional COVD-19 testing facility Since March 2020, shortly after the first Coronavirus-19 case was reported in South Carolina, the Columbia VA Health Care System has been available to provide rapid COVID-19 testing in-house. Initially, tests results were expected to take 10 to 14 days, but the Columbia VA was able to provide results within hours. From March through December 2020, Columbia VA had conducted more than 45,000 COVID-19 tests for Veterans across the Southeast in Georgia, Alabama, and South Carolina. The Columbia VA has had the capacity to also test
hundreds of its employees during the pandemic to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the patients they treat daily. Additionally, as part of its fourth mission, the Columbia VA provided testing services to all state-run Veterans’ homes in Alabama and South Carolina to meet state’s guidelines. In December, the Columbia VA received its first shipment of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. The facility begin to immediately administer vaccines to high-risk Veterans and essential health care personnel in accordance with Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and VA guidance. Moving in 2021, the Columbia VA will continue to offer vaccines to interested Veterans following the phased approach as set by CDC guidelines.
Partnering with our community during the COVID-19 pandemic Beginning on April 7, 2020 the Columbia VA HCS partnered with American Red Cross to help with the critical needs of blood supply and hosted several successful emergency blood drives while following the required safety protocols. In addition to standard procedures, these additional precautionary actions were taken:
• • • •
Pre-Donation Donor Temperature Screening Enhanced Disinfecting Social Distancing Staff Wellness and Protection Increased Donor Educational Materials
The final totals includes seven blood drives, 330 units collected, and nearly 1,000 lives can potentially be saved thanks to these donations. We look forward to continuing to host multiple blood drives in the near future in order to help our Red Cross partners and our community. Kristen Boyle, American Red Cross donor recruitment representative, was very appreciative of the partnership: “Everyone, and I mean everyone, was a fantastic help! Special thanks to your volunteers for their support directing donor flow, and especially to Yvette who always treats the staff like family and is so passionate about our mission.” Thanks to everyone involved who made this a great success.
Nearly
1,000
potential number of lives saved
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•
Fourth Mission
Fourth Mission
Leading the way...
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By Dillon McConnell, public affairs specialist
Fourth Mission: Columbia VA provides needed support to Veterans’ homes in Southeast. The Coronavirus pandemic has been unrelenting, creating overwhelming challenges for America’s health care systems, nursing homes, and medical facilities. As the number of cases continue rise across the state of South Carolina, and in the Southeast, the Columbia VA Health Care System has been focused on providing safe highquality care for its Veterans, but also, when possible, the communities it serves. While VA’s primary mission is to help Veterans, in times of national emergency, the VA can invoke its “Fourth Mission” to support national, state, and local government agencies and organizations. As part of its Fourth Mission, the Columbia VA has stepped up to provide needed assistance and support across the Southeast including answering the call for help from seven state-run Veterans’ homes in South Carolina and Alabama that were struggling to obtain the timely COVID testing results from inundated community labs. Additionally, the
Columbia VA provided critically needed personal protective equipment to the Catawba Indian Health Service in July 2020. “We are more than happy to support our Veterans in state Veterans’ homes in South Carolina and Alabama,” said David Omura, director and chief executive officer of the Columbia VA HCS. “When there are Veterans in need of help, the Columbia VA stands ready to do whatever it can to take care of them regardless of the state they reside, just as we did in this case.” With state requirements to conduct mandatory COVID-19 testing, the task seemed impossible for many state Veterans’ homes as they tried to keep a high-risk population of our nation’s heroes safe. Nursing home residents are predominantly older, and Veterans, in particular, have multiple complex health conditions, making them particularly susceptible to Coronavirus.
The Columbia VA is one of the only VA labs to have the necessary equipment to test and treat patients at all stages of Coronavirus from diagnosis to treatment. Presently, the Columbia VA has three different molecular diagnostic tests, serology/antibody tests to assess for acquired immunity, and a convalescent plasma therapy program to treat patients who exhibit severe or life-threatening COVID-19 infections. In 2020, the Columbia VA has tested 100 percent of each Veterans’ nursing homes’ residents and staff, some multiple times.
• • • • • •
30,000 surgical masks 5,000 face shields 300 N95 masks 14,100 isolation gowns 117,000 gloves 4,000 collection kits
“We are fortunate to have some of the best technology available to test for COVID-19 at the Columbia VA,” said Dr. Jailan Osman, the chief of the Pathology and Laboratory Service at the Columbia VA HCS. “We are determined to win this battle against COVID, and I am confident that we will with the dedication and persistence of our lab and VA personnel.”
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This has amounted to performing more than 3,900 COVID-19 tests as well as providing critically needed PPE and collection kits to these sites, which includes:
In March, the Columbia VA was selected as one of the first VA facilities to be approved for high volume COVID-19 testing using its Roche Analyzer. From April to December, the facility has performed more than 45,000 Roche COVID-19 tests for VA facilities and seven state Veterans’ nursing homes in Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina. Remarkably, the average turnaround time for the Columbia VA is approximately 1.14 days compared to 5 to 10 days in the community. The true benefit of being able to run these tests in house is “same-day test results.” Faster results allow providers to make timely treatment decisions for COVID-positive patients and reduce PPE usage.
Use your smartphone camera app to watch the video
KTVH –News in Montana, “For us it’s just another sacrifice that we’re willing to make for the greater good.”
-Jennifer Price, Emergency Manager
In April, Keith Hicks, a Navy Veteran, arrived at the Columbia VA where he was quickly evaluated and tested for the Coronavirus. When the results were in, Hicks was astonished that he was positive. He was admitted to the hospital for careful observation and treatment, but unfortunately, his condition worsened, including being put on a ventilator. Hicks recalled the whole experience as something he has never been through before. As someone who took good care of himself, the Coronavirus took hold of him in a way that caught him off guard.
COVID-19 Recovery
By Dillon McConnell, public affairs specialist
Leading the way...
21 | Columbia VA HCS Annual Report
Hicks recovery
Through round-the-clock care and intense medical treatment, he had an encouraging response. Hicks credits his amazing turnaround to the extraordinary medical care that he received from the Columbia VA. “The frontline staff is nothing less than miracle workers,” said Hicks “They keep calling me a hero, but I am not the hero, they are. I am nothing but grateful for them. VA has changed me. Meeting this staff has changed me.” However, Hicks was not the only one who was grateful. When he was transferred, his care team lined the hallway to give him a standing ovation to show their excitement that he was on his way to recovery. Hicks said that he was overcome with his emotions and was so appreciative for the gesture that he cried. “I will never forget this, and what this means to me.” Hicks has since made a full recovery.
By Marlous Black, public affairs specialist
Thomas Bowman Jr. began feeling under the weather last spring. He originally thought it was allergies, but as he began to feel worse, he sought medical treatment at the Columbia VA Health Care System. Bowman Jr., a Marine Corps Veteran, was able to get a rapid COVID-19 test at the Columbia VA in less than an hour. He tested positive and was admitted to the VA hospital.
Bowman Jr. remembered that he had visited his parents the day before his symptoms began to develop, so he was concerned that he may have passed the virus to his parents. His father, also a Marine Corps Veteran, subsequently tested positive for COVID-19 and was hospitalized at the VA. Bowman Jr. had a high fever and developed pneumonia in his lungs which required the aid of a ventilator. Bowman Sr. responded better to treatment and didn’t require the use of a ventilator.
While on the same unit of the hospital father and son were able to check on each other with the help of doctors and nurses who encouraged them both to keep fighting. “I just thank God for the VA. The doctors, nurses, everyone from the dietitians to the chefs to the assistants to the custodians and everyone,” Bowman Sr. said. Although considered to be more high risk, Bowman Sr. never doubted that he and his son would walk out of the hospital together. Father and son have made full recoveries.
22 | Columbia VA HCS Annual Report
Marine father and son COVID-19 recovery
Images courtesy of Bowman family
Innovations and Process Improvements
Leading the way...
23 | Columbia VA HCS Annual Report
Columbia VA HCS building on our record of Innovation and Improvements Submission and acceptance of three American College of Healthcare Executives Congress Management Innovation Posters, out of 15 total accepted nationwide, with Columbia representing 20% of all accepted submissions and eclipsed only by the Mayo Clinic. This recognition further demonstrates the high impact innovations being used to improve care and service at the Columbia VA Health Care System.
Use your smartphone camera app for a closer look at the Improving Emergency Department poster
Improving Emergency Department Patient Flow through Visual Management Systems Background 33,000+ ED Visits Annually
10 Bed Emergency Room 15 Room Urgent Care Reducing the time patients remain in the emergency department (ED) improves access to treatment and increases quality of care. Columbia VA HCS has developed a no-cost solution for achieving improvements in overall ED flow among staff, communication with patients, and the understanding of real-time performance and future needs. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention highlighted these challenges that all health care system emergency departments experience, as wait times in the United States have risen by over 25% since 2003. The Columbia VA Health Care System experienced these same challenges, however through a structured Continuous Process Improvement approach has recognized, assessed, developed and implemented sustainable Visual Management Systems which have reshaped how we do business. Bottlenecks and barriers to patient flow in the ED are now addressed thoughtfully and timely, which has led to enhanced performance and outcomes. Visual Management Systems are now accepted as essential for achieving smooth throughput, reducing wait times, decreasing treatment delays, and improving overall patient satisfaction. Recognizing that length of stay in the ED is a challenge nationwide, Columbia VA Health Care System has developed an automated system for visualizing both current and projected patient flow to provide high level process overviews with on-demand drill down capability.
For additional information contact: 2020ColaVAHCSPosters@va.gov
Objective
Results
• Leverage existing software resources capable of conducting vectorized operations to extract, clean, and analyze large amounts of data on a daily basis. • Generate valuable insights into complex processes for clinical and executive leadership while eliminating analytic and administrative burden. • Create a “one-stop-shop” to house all ED data monitoring, reporting, and improvement tools. • Employ machine learning algorithms to provide reliable predictions of patient arrivals and flow trends to enable optimization of staffing and resource management.
The Emergency Department Patient Flow Tool has enabled staff from front-line supervisors to executive leadership to gain crucial insights into key areas of emergency department patient flow in order to conduct real-time, data informed management. Since its release, the Columbia VA Health Care System has seen significant improvements in the majority of ED metrics including a 9.8% decrease in Joint Commission measure ED-1: Median Time from ED Arrival to Departure for Admitted Patients and a 36.8% reduction in patients Leaving Without Being Seen/Treated (LWOBS). Additionally, the tool has been adopted by several VA health care systems nationwide, has received the 2018 South Carolina Hospital Association Lewis Blackman Award for Innovation & Research, and was the first-place winner of the 2018 VHA Southeast Network Idea House Competition. Bottlenecks in ED flow and overall access can now be quickly addressed in any organization through the use of this approach, enabling facilities to move closer towards the goals of being a High Reliability Organization.
Planning An interdisciplinary team comprised of subject matter experts from several hospital departments reviewed several years of data containing 169,330 visits to the Columbia VA Health Care System Emergency Department. An in-house development team with expertise in operational data science analyzed the dataset to uncover key metric drivers and patient arrival trends using a combination of Bootstrap Aggregation, Random Forests, and K-means Clustering. This was then used to create a highly reliable rule-based classification algorithm.
Implementation The development team worked with key stakeholders to build the Emergency Department Patient Flow Tool, an automated visual management system built with existing resources at no additional cost. The tool allows users to easily interact with high level overviews, identify challenges, and drill down to root causes in one cohesive package. To eliminate the need for specialized technical staff, the developers created a robust framework of dynamic code libraries with minimal technical debt. This resulted in a tool comprised of self-evident operations requiring little to no user training or technical knowledge.
Hugh Welch LSSBB; Michael Faircloth MD; Kim Joye RN; Lisa Nashton MHA, LSSBB; Bridget Schausten RN, MSN, CPHQ; Bernard Dekoning MD; Ruth Mustard RN, MSN; Sterling Bird MHA; David Omura DPT, MHA, MS
Leveraging Technology to Enhance Physical Safety and Security in Healthcare Hugh Welch, LSSBB; Michael Schausten; Scott Powers; Sterling Bird MHA; Jeffrey Soots; Angelia Scott; David L. Omura DPT, MHA, MS
Background
Planning Methods
Results
Improving physical safety and security in a healthcare setting poses several challenges, including cost, patient experience, and disruptions to patient and visitor flow. Utilizing technology can provide increased safety and security while minimizing undesirable impacts and associated costs in terms of financial, operational, and patient experience.
Utilizing a multi-disciplinary team comprised of VA Police, Engineering, IT, and contractor staff, the Columbia VA Health Care System took several key steps to determine the best course of action to improve safety and security within their facilities:
Post implementation analysis showed a 47% reduction in criminal activity in areas targeted through trend analysis, including heat map visualizations. Improvements were realized in other aspects, including the ability to determine the cause of accidents and other events that were previously unable to be reviewed, both internally and externally. Several possible high visibility and major events have been prevented by this initiative, including firearm involvement. Thefts, disruptions, and other incidents have been quickly identified and addressed as a result of these improvements. Other benefits as a result of this initiative include:
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Compared current systems with newer technology now available Identified vulnerabilities with current state and developed areas of focus Analyzed measures taken at comparable healthcare settings and other government buildings Performed cost/benefit comparisons, including nonmonetary costs including patient and visitor experience
Central Monitoring and Equipment Room
Implementation Objectives
The Columbia VA Healthcare System implemented this program through a multi-phased approach: •
1.Improve safety and security through the use of new technology and data analysis
2. Minimize negative impacts to patient flow and experience 3. Mitigate safety and security risks as transparently as possible
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Constructed central monitoring room for displays, equipment, and personnel
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Utilized areas of focus based on vulnerability assessments and deployed 425 state of the art cameras as part of Phase 1 with plans for over 700 total after Phase 2 implementation
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Developed data analytics to determine the effectiveness and to efficiently utilize existing traditional resources, including targeted police patrol areas based on incident trend analysis Began utilizing automated call system capable of reaching over 1000 patients or staff per hour Implemented the use of new employee emergency contact management and notification system
Incident Heat Map by Location
Use your smartphone camera app for a closer look at the Leveraging Technology poster
Use your smartphone camera app for a closer look at the Reducing Antibiotic Administration poster
Reducing Antibiotic Administration Delay in Emergency Department Sepsis Patients Melissa Felder MSN, AP-RN; Lisa Dykes PharmD; Nichole Brown RN, MSN; Jailan Osman MD; Hugh Welch LSSBB; Bernard Dekoning MD; Ruth Mustard RN, MSN; Sterling Bird MHA, David Omura DPT, MHA, MS For additional information contact: 2020ColaVAHCSPosters@va.gov
Background
Planning Methods
In the United States, it is estimated that sepsis is associated with more than 250,000 deaths annually (Rhee, et al., 2019). Each hour of delay in antibiotic administration for patients with septic shock increases their risk of death by 7.6% per hour (Kumal, et al. 2006), culminating in an in-hospital mortality rate ranging from 20% - 50% of afflicted patients and an annual medical expenditure exceeding $24 billion (Ahiawodzi, et al., 2018). The 2018 Society of Critical Care Medicine Surviving Sepsis Campaign recommends administration of IV antibiotics within one hour of sepsis recognition. The Columbia VA Health Care System recognized this opportunity for improvement and through our Continuous Process Improvement model, made improvements that significantly improved our antibiotic administration time, and further improved strong performance when assessing our mortality data across the health care system. Through the use of this multi-pronged approach to addressing sepsis, other health care systems can reduce length of stay, reduce readmission rates, and decrease the incidence of sepsis-related mortality.
Record audits were conducted for all Columbia VA Healthcare System patients with an inpatient diagnosis of sepsis from September 2018 through February 2019 (n = 160). These records were further reviewed to identify patients who met sepsis criteria at presentation to the emergency department n=59) to create a dataset comprised of the following variables: date & time of emergency department presentation, date & time of first antibiotic administration, suspected illness, sepsis trigger alert, presence of blood cultures, fluid administration, lactic acid lab results, patient mortality, & emergency severity index. A group of subject matter experts then analyzed the resultant dataset for antibiotic administration time distributions and staff accuracy in early identification and prioritization of potentially septic patients.
Objectives • Create a standardized sepsis screening tool to increase
inter-rater reliability in identification of sepsis
• Elevate clinical awareness of recent advancements in
sepsis identification and treatment recommendations
• Improve sepsis patient triage prioritization • Reduce median antibiotic administration times
to within one hour of patient presentation to emergency department.
Implementation An interdisciplinary team of physicians, mid-level providers, nurses, pharmacists, & clinical application coordinators developed a two-part triage screen using modified qSOFA methodology to assess heart rate, temperature, blood pressure, respiratory rate, mental status, white blood cell count, blood glucose, & chills/rigor to achieve a balance of sensitivity and specificity. Patients meeting two or more criteria are then evaluated for potential sources of infection. This screening tool was hardwired into the electronic medical record to ensure screening is completed on 100% of patients presenting to the emergency department, as well as ensuring that all potential sepsis patients are immediately identified and prioritized appropriately. Extensive education was provided to all emergency department clinical personnel who serve as the first encounter point of contact for arriving patients. Education focused on sepsis identification, sepsis prioritization, and treatment recommendations based on current identified best practices.
Results • Median antibiotic administration times were reduced by 55.7% from 150 minutes to 66.5 minutes.
• Percent of septic patients identified and treated within one hour of arrival at Emergency Department increased from 8.5% to 35%.
• Accurate identification of sepsis in triage increased from 44.1% to 80.0%.
• Appropriate triage prioritization increased from 50.9% to 90.0%
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4. Improve communication with staff, patients, and others during emergencies and in general
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Approved acquisition of equipment and hired additional staff
Heightened sense of security by staff, patients, and visitors with 94.1% of surveyed staff indicating that these measures have enhanced safety and security Real-time monitoring of facility operations and identification of needs for assistance Enhanced ability to gather evidence for criminal prosecution Improved efficiency and effectiveness of VA and community police resources Greater ability to quickly contact patients and employees through the use of new automated call system and employee contact and notification system Through continuous effectiveness assessments, future actions identified include adding License Plate Recognition (LPR) system that will be integrated with the National Criminal Information Center (NCIC) and updating police radio communication to expand communications statewide, allowing for communication with all police and dispatch centers throughout the state
Construction Projects
Leading the way...
25 | Columbia VA HCS Annual Report
The Columbia VA Health Care System Fisher House will be a 16-suite facility for Veterans and their families to stay while the Veteran receives long-term care at the medical center. The estimated cost for this facilities is $6.5 million; half of which must be raised through local donations. The Fisher House Foundation covers the remaining costs. The Columbia VA is currently scheduled to break ground for this Fisher House in the spring of 2021.
Building 10 was part of the original construction in 1931 and was designated as nursing quarters. It contained 75 rooms at the time. It is currently undergoing a massive face lift to the tune of $14.4 million. Projected to be completed in early 2021, Building 10 will be used for primary care clinics, boasting more than 40 exam rooms.
The $8.6 million Center for Rehabilitative Services facility will house Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and the Pain Clinic in a 16,500-square-foot building which will be nestled between the historic Building 10 and the USC School of Medicine building. This project is scheduled for completion in 2022.
In front of Building 10 on the main campus, the Columbia VA has plans approved to build a $7.7 million, 16,500-square-foot Prosthetics and Sensory Aid Center. This project is scheduled for completion in 2022.
On the Columbia VA HCS main campus, plans are in place to build a $8.6 million, 15,000-squarefoot behavioral health center to provide outpatient mental health services. This project is scheduled for completion in 2022. An $8.4 million plan to expand the parking garage is expected to begin by the middle of 2021 and be completed in late 2022. Once completed, the parking garage as a whole will provide more than 550 parking spaces.
26 | Columbia VA HCS Annual Report
The Columbia VA HCS has already broke ground on one of four new communitybased outpatient clinics. The $5.6 million, 17,723-square-foot Orangeburg CBOC project began the summer of 2020 and is expected to be completed in the fall of 2021 with a projected opening date in October 2021. Three other projects are still in the planning/awarding phase, though ground breakings are planned for the late spring of 2021. When complete, Sumter will have a $6.1 million, 19,918-squarefoot facility; Rock Hill will receive a $6.1 million, 19,912-square-foot facility, which will be fully staffed by VA employees; and Florence will receive a $5.3million, 26,206-square-foot facility.
1,118,878 Outpatient visits
Anderson
83,736 Veterans served
3,357
Inpatient admissions
$
$715M Operating budget
9,753
Female Veterans served
204
Total operating beds
$190M
Approved construction
F Y 2020
27 | Columbia VA HCS Annual Report
VA
Columbia VA HCS provides care to Veterans in 36 out of 46 South Carolina counties Greenville
VA
VA
VA
Spartanburg
Rock Hill
n
Columbia VA
Florence VA
Sumter
VA
Orangeburg
Columbia VA Health Care System Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) Catchment area Area covered by partnership
28 | Columbia VA HCS Annual Report
VA
Veteran’s 101st birthday By Columbia VA HCS public affairs office
29 | Columbia VA HCS Annual Report
Columbia VA patient turns 101, gets virtual party. Mr. Patrick McClain, a native of Washington state and a World War II Army Veteran, unfortunately took ill while on a visit to see his daughter in South Carolina. McClain was subsequently admitted as a patient to the Columbia VA Health Care System. With a big birthday on the horizon, McClain was anxious to be released from the hospital to spend his 101st birthday with his family, but he was informed that due to his medical condition that he would not be discharged in time. McClain’s medical support team recognized his disappointment, so they planned a birthday party to recognize his major milestone. The staff brought in an array of birthday goods complete with cake, cards, punch, and balloons to ensure that McClain had a party worthy of turning 101.
Celebration
Thanks to the innovation of Columbia VA staff, and a Facebook’s Portal donation from Fisher House Foundation, McClain’s family was able to virtually celebrate his 101st birthday. Using the Facebook portal, McClain’s daughter, Virginia McClain, who lives in Columbia; and his two sons, William and Owen McClain, who live in Washington state were able to celebrate with their father as he opened gifts and shared his wonderful sense of humor.
McClain has acknowledged he has had some close calls in life. He recounted a story from when was in the Army infantry during WWII in Germany. Toward the end of WWII, McClain’s group was captured by German soldiers who took him as a POW. While being transported to a POW camp, the train car next to his was bombed by the Allies who did not know that prisoners were on board.
After the war, McClain became a dentist, graduating dental school in 1950. After nearly, 40 years, he retired in 1989. When asked the secret of his long life, McClain responded, “Sleep well, eat right, and behave yourself.” McClain is looking forward to getting back home and on to a golf course to practice his swing. Happy birthday Dr. McClain; the Columbia VA family wishes you all the best and many more birthdays to come.
VA Police Officers Prevent Tragedy
31 | Columbia VA HCS Annual Report
By Marlous Black, Public Affairs Specialist
Two ladies are alive today thanks to the quick action of five police officers from the Columbia VA Health Care System. On October 5, Columbia VA Police officers, Major Calvin Rascoe, Officer Colt Clark, Officer Ronald Turner, Officer Robert Evans and Officer Shawn Bethea were returning to the Columbia VA from training when Rascoe observed fire and smoke coming from a vehicle traveling north on Interstate-77. The driver and passenger were unaware of the fire coming from the undercarriage of their car. Rascoe activated his vehicle’s blue lights and siren to get the driver’s attention to pull over. The police officers quickly jumped into action to save the two ladies in the car who were still unaware that their car was on fire. Clark and Turner led the ladies to a safe area away from the car while Turner called 911 to request fire and emergency rescue and Bethea took care of traffic control. With the ladies safely rescued from the car, Rascoe and Evans attempted to put out the fire. Rascoe emptied a five-pound fire extinguisher on the engine and
Save the Day
David Omura, director and CEO of the Columbia VA Health Care System said, “I am always inspired by the heroic work completed by our great Police Service. I hope that if I am ever driving down the road, and I have an emergency, like my car being unexpectedly on fire, the VA Police are there to save the day.”
Leading the way...
The officers said they did not think about their own personal safety. “Our focus was to save the two ladies in that burning car,” Rascoe said. “I appreciate these guys 100 percent. They did an impeccable job. They reacted and
did what they are trained to do to make sure people are safe. I believe if God had not placed us there at that particular moment, the outcome would have been tragic.”
32 | Columbia VA HCS Annual Report
undercarriage and Evans emptied a second 2.5-pound extinguisher to battle the fire on the engine. With flames still blazing from the undercarriage, Rascoe grabbed a third fire extinguisher and finally extinguished the fire just as the Lexington Fire Department and local Emergency Management Service arrived on the scene.
Volunteers
Leading the way...
33 | Columbia VA HCS Annual Report
20th Annual Vets Charity Ride Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the 20th Annual Vets Charity Ride sponsored by Veterans Jim Wertman, Gene Royer and many other community partners was limited to collections off-site and virtually. Donations totaled more than $25,000.00 in non-monetary goods including holiday gifts for more than 200 Veterans including our inpatients, Community Living Center residents and homeless Veterans; $15,000.00 in monetary donations was also received for future needs.
Columbia VA Health Care System Celebrates 12 Days of Giving Voluntary Service sponsored a “12 Days of Giving� event providing tokens of appreciation to Veterans at the Dorn Medical Center and all seven CBOCs between December 9-24. These gifts were made possible by generous community donations.
Holiday Meal Baskets Voluntary Service with support of VAMC staff and local community donors collected food and provided more than 330 holiday food baskets with gift cards to support Veterans.
Veterans Day Appreciation Voluntary Service teamed up with Soldiers’ Angels again this year to provide Home of the Brave gifts in honor of Veteran’s Day to local Veterans. The Soldiers’ Angels drawstring backpacks contained a hygiene kit, a t-shirt, and a face mask. 34 | Columbia VA HCS Annual Report
Van Dedication American Veterans (DAV) and the Blue Star Mothers dedicated a new Veterans Transportation Network van on December 11, 2020. This van was designated to honor U.S. Army WWII, POW and Korean War Veteran, Major Albert F. Hamilton. This van will be used to transport Veterans without transportation to their medical appointments.
Student Volunteer Program The Columbia VA HCS Voluntary Service Office contributed to a national VAVS initiative, “Leading the Way – 2020 Student Program” to establish “Virtual” Student Volunteer Program assignments. Voluntary Service Office began its first ever “Virtual Student Volunteer Program.” Several students are enrolled in the five-week program and are making a difference in the lives of Veterans.
Dean Durham, Tammy Finney, and Dontrelle Inman, NFL wide receiver speaks with Veterans at the Wm. Jennings Bryan Dorn VA Medical Center during the National Salute to Veteran Patients Week.
National Salute to Veterans Each February, across the nation, VA Voluntary Service at medical centers and other facilities under the umbrella of the Veterans Health Administration host National Salute to Veterans- a week-long celebration honoring Veteran patients – thanking them for their service to our country. Here, at the Columbia VA Health Care System, several local and national organizations; schools; state senators; faith-based ministries; military personnel; and first responders showed in force to revere veterans for their selfless service.
Community Based Outpatient Clinics
Leading the way...
35 | Columbia VA HCS Annual Report
Anderson VA Clinic 3030 North Highway 81 Anderson, SC 29621-2009 Phone: 864-224-5450
Florence VA Clinic 1822 Sally Hill Farms Blvd. Florence, SC 29501-6987 Phone: 843-292-8383
Greenville VA Clinic 41 Park Creek Dr. Greenville, SC 29605-4270 Phone: 864-299-1600
Orangeburg VA Clinic 1767 Village Park Dr. Orangeburg, SC 29118-2475 Phone: 803-533-1335
Rock Hill VA Clinic 2670 Mills Park Dr. Rock Hill, SC 29732-1836 Phone: 803-366-4848
Spartanburg VA Clinic 279 North Grove Medical Park Dr. Spartanburg, SC 29303-4222 Phone: 803-776-4000
Sumter VA Clinic 407 North Salem Avenue Sumter, SC 29150-4115 Phone: 803-938-9901
Columbia VA: “They really care for Veterans.” -Deborah McNair, Army Veteran
Columbia VA Health Care System 6439 Garners Ferry Road | Columbia, SC 29209 www.columbiasc.va.gov | 803-647-5829 | 800-293-8262