SCOPE Magazine October 2010

Where caring counts. Feel the difference.

October 2010

TM

Vol. 26 No. 5

FREE

Health Women’s GH, M Event @ ee page Oct.16. S ils. ta 3 for de

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Women’s Health Event Helped Save Heather’s Life If

Mason Gen­ eral Hospital hadn’t hosted a Women’s Health Event last Oc­ tober, Heather Williams’ life might not be as happy today. It Heather Williams and had been sev­ Karry Trout, (RT)(RM). eral years since her last mammogram, and she couldn’t afford to pay for another one, much less potential cancer treatments. When Heather learned of the Women’s Health Event held last October, and that it would provide free mammograms to qualifying women, a friend encouraged her to take advantage of the opportunity.

“I figured it was part of being a respon­ sible mom, and grandma-to-be,” Heather recalled. She ended up really enjoying her visit. The friendly, helpful staff and volunteers offering free samples, com­ plimentary food, gifts, and massages all made for a pleasant atmosphere. After her mammogram, Heather was called in for a follow-up exam – and then a biopsy. Out of approximately 30 women who under­ went mammograms at Mason General’s Women’s Health Event, Heather was the only one who was diagnosed with breast cancer. Upon finding this out, she gave a tearful hug of thanks to the Hospital staff member who gave her that initial mam­ mogram. “I wanted to let them know that what they are doing at the hospital is saving lives,” Heather explained.

Heather’s diagnosis led to surgery and radiation treatments during the past year.

But she wasn’t going to quit. She went on to say, “I told the Continued on page 2….

Breast Cancer Knows Few Boundaries Since breast cancer knows few boundaries, it is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers today. Everyone is potentially at risk, despite age, sex, or family history. Although rare, men can develop the deadly disease.

Breast cancer is complex and unpredictable.

To date, there is no cure.

Breast cancer is the leading cancer among American women and second only to lung cancer in cancer deaths.

More than two million women currently living in the U.S. have been diagnosed and treated for breast cancer.

Breast cancer is a type of cancer where cells in the breast tissue divide and grow without normal control. Like other cancers, breast cancer can spread throughout the body. Only a small fraction of breast cancer cases can be linked to genetics.

Who Gets Breast Cancer?

Anyone can get breast cancer – women and men – but the exact causes of breast cancer are not fully understood. Scientists have identified a number of risk factors that increase a person’s chance of getting breast cancer.

Females are at greatest risk for getting breast cancer.

Women aged 40 and older are at greatest risk for being diagnosed.

A small percentage of women under the age of 40 do develop breast cancer.

About 85 percent of all women diagnosed with breast cancer DO NOT have a family history.

Only about 10 - 15 percent of breast cancers occur because of inherited genetic traits.

Breast cancer in men is rare, but it does happen.

Race is not considered a factor for increased risk of breast cancer. However, rates of developing and dying from the disease differ among ethnic groups.

Women are less at risk of developing breast cancer if they eat a healthy diet and exercise.

Early Detection & Treatment Early detection is the key to surviving breast cancer. When breast cancer is diagnosed at its earliest stages, the five-year survival rate is over 95 percent.

Mammograms are the best and most widely available breast cancer screening tool. They can detect about 85 percent of all breast cancers.

Continued on page 3…

Hilburn Fund Helps Local Woman M

ichelle Indermuhle of Union (right) enjoys the peaceful setting at her place of work, Harmony Hill Retreat, located along Hood Canal.

Michelle is at peace with her health, thanks to the Karen Hilburn Breast and Cervical Cancer Fund (KHBCCF) and to Mountain View Women’s Health Clinic, operated by Mason General Hospital – where 15 to 17 pre-cancerous lesions were detected on Michelle’s cervix. “I was only 26, married, and a mother of two when they were found. It was hard at the time, as my husband was recently unemployed and we had no health coverage.” It was at the Clinic that Michelle heard about the KHBCC Fund, which helps women in Mason County who cannot pay for the diagnosis and treatment of breast and cervical cancers. “Even though I didn’t technically have cancer, it was at a pre-cancerous stage, so getting immediate care was critical,” Michelle added. After several treatments and many invoices paid by the Fund, Michelle is pleased to report Continued on page 7….

C

s t r u c ti o n

From the desk of Bob Appel, CEO at MGH

I am pleased to let you know that the

construction project is on schedule. As you may already be aware, we have selected our General Contractor/Construction Manager (GC/CM), Hoffman Construction. Hoffman began working with the construction and campus renewal project team this Spring and, with their involvement, we are continuing the four phases of the design process: programming, schematic design, design development, and construction documents.

We are currently in the design development phase.

Each phase of the design process adds more detail culminating with the completion of the construction documents necessary for project bidding and construction to actually begin. The design development phase of the construction will include the design of the structural, mechanical and electrical systems in great detail. Hospital department concepts and requirements have been approved and our team will now begin defining the appearance, construction details and equipment layouts in individual rooms. In addition, building elevations will be created and hospital exterior finishes will be further defined as we begin to understand the final look of the building. Design development drawings are scheduled for completion in this month.

With completion of the design development phase, our project budget will be validated to make sure project costs are on track to stay within budget and are on schedule. I would like to thank the construction and campus renewal team, our staff members, and physicians for working so well to ensure the success of this major project. I look forward to sharing more updates with you in future issues SCOPE. — Bob Appel

date #6

District’s Construction Project Moves Toward Completion of Design Development Phase

Up

on

Local Ophthalmologist Shares Point of View M

onica B. Vuong, M.D. is the only board-certified ophthal­ mologist and eye surgeon in this area. She treats patients at Mason General Hospital Eye Clinic. Originally from the Seattle area, Dr. Vuong specializes in surgery and diseases of the eye, with experience in the management of cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration. She also performs cataract surgery and laser procedures. She received her medical degree from the University of Washington and completed her internship at the University of Mas­ sachusetts, and then her residency at Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Recently, Dr. Vuong took the time to answer a few questions related to vision and eye care.

Q. How often should someone get an eye exam?

Adults should undergo an eye exam at least once in their 20’s, then Monica B. Vuong, M.D at least twice in their 30’s. By age 40, the recommendation rises to every two to four years, up to age 65 when an exam is advised every one to two years. People with diabetes should see their eye doctor at least once a year. Children should have their eyes examined during their first year, followed by another exam at age three, and then again before kindergarten.

From then on, children should receive an eye exam at least every two years. In-school check-ups are no substitute for clinical eye exams.

Q. What are the benefits of a routine eye exam?

Frequent eye exams are critical for detecting glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, cata­ racts, and diabetic retinopathy.

Q. Are there certain things we can do to help keep our eyes healthy and not age faster than normal?

Studies show controlling elevated blood pressure and cholesterol can help reduce the risk of vision loss. This can be done by quitting smoking, getting exercise, and adopting a diet rich in antioxidants (fish and leafy greens). Protecting our eyes from the sun also helps.

Q. What services can MGH Eye Clinic do to help me keep my eyesight healthy?

MGH Eye Clinic provides routine eye exams, as well as eye surgery for cataracts, eyelid, and internal eye. The clinic also uses state-of-the art equipment for diagnoses and treatment of eye diseases for people of all ages.

Health Event Helped Save Life …continued from page 1 radiation doctor, ‘cancer could take my parts, my life; but it couldn’t take my spirit’. I would laugh cancer in its face. Because, what’s the worst that could happen? I’ve asked Jesus to forgive me and stay in my heart, so if it was time to go to heaven, what could be sad about that?”

Throughout her experience, Heather valued the care and support she received from family, friends, her church, and Hospital staff. Mason General also let her know about a program that would provide her free transportation to and from her radiation treatments.

Heather went on to say, “My final thoughts on this story are – first, I feel that God’s “special de­ livery” was that one and only free mammogram flyer from our (Hoodsport) clinic, given to me by a lady from church at our quilting session. Of the 30 women tested that day at MGH, I was the only one that had cancer. My Mom said, “Why did it have to be you? I said, you don’t understand Mom, it was ‘for’ me. It had been many years since my last mammogram, maybe eight, and without the means of getting one and wondering how necessary it really was, there wasn’t much I could do about it, anyway. But the cancer I had would have kept growing and there would have been a much dif­ ferent outcome. Finding it at such an early stage, I didn’t lose my hair or my breast, it didn’t spread, and I didn’t lose my life. I thank God for loving me enough to save me; I thank Mason General Hos­ pital for offering free mammograms; and I thank Karen Hilburn, and the (Washington State) Breast and Cervical Cancer Fund. I am grateful for the Susan G. Komen cancer program that Karry Trout, (RT)(RM), Patient Navigator at MGH will be working through at the Hospital. I also thank all my friends, neighbors, my church, and all the people that prayed for me here and at churches in other states.”

Note: MGH is once again hosting a FREE Women’s Health Event on Oct. 16, 2010. For more information, see page 3.

Are You Vitamin D Deficient?

“Due to the local climate, Washington state residents are more at risk of Vitamin D deficiency.

The lack of sunlight during at least half the year prevents people in this area from absorbing enough Vitamin D. In fact, Vitamin D deficiency is most common among people living in northern latitudes. Others with a higher risk include those with dark skin, the obese, the elderly, and those with limited sun exposure,” said Sarah Fulkerson, a registered dietitian at Mason General Hospital.

Why should Vitamin D deficiency be a concern? It has been linked to osteoporosis, cancer, Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, neuropathy, mental health issues, chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, heart disease, hypertension, rheumatoid arthritis, balance issues, decreased immunity, and many other disease states.

How can you find out if you are deficient or not? Mason General Hospital currently of­ fers a 25-Hydroxy Vitamin D test, the recommended blood test for diagnosing this condition. Ms. Fulkerson encourages everyone to have themselves and their families checked and then follow any recommendations provided by their doctors for treating or preventing a Vitamin D deficiency.

Mason General Hospital

presents:

Meet breast & ovarian cancer survivors

* First 50 women who qualify under the Washington Breast, Cervical and Colon Cancer Health program. Free gift with each mammogram. Funded by Karen Hilburn Breast & Cervical Cancer Fund. Women who are insured for mammograms may make appointments for a digital mammogram at a later date by calling (360) 427-9590, option 3.

Come and meet MGH Women’s Healthcare Providers.

Should You Have Your Bone Density Checked?

What are the advantages of undergoing a

bone-density assessment? For one – early detection of vertebral fractures, which can indicate the risk of potentially debilitating and life-threatening spine and hip fractures later in life. People at risk of developing osteoporosis, particularly those aged 65 and up, may benefit from having a dual-energy X-ray absorption, or DEXA, exam. This test measures bone mass and thickness to determine risks for osteopenia, osteoporosis, or fractures. The DEXA exam is the most accurate bone-density test available, though it is possible to assess risks of developing osteoporosis without bone-density testing. At this point, there are no known risks associated with having a DEXA bone-density test.

Osteoporosis – as well as advancing age – weakens bones, making them thinner and more prone to breaking. The United States Preventive Services Task Force suggests people at higher risks for broken bones caused by osteoporosis should begin undergoing routine screening by age 60. Besides age – family history, ethnicity, gender, bone structure, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medical conditions are among the risk factors for developing osteoporosis. For instance, post-menopausal women are often more at risk.

Mason General Hospital now offers DEXA screening for patients with an order from their physician. They may call Mason General Hospital’s Diagnostic Imaging department to make a screening appointment at (360) 427-9590, extension 3.

DEXA appointments may be scheduled to coincide with mammogram appointments.

Individuals should talk to their providers to determine their risk factors and the need or frequency to screen.

www.MasonGeneral.com

Breast Cancer …continued from page 1

901 Mountain View Drive, Shelton, WA For information: (360) 432-7706

At age 40, women should begin to get annual mammograms.

Women should begin monthly breast self exams by age 20 and have a clinical breast exam at least every three years.

— Source: Susan G. Komen Foundation

Volunteering at Treasures Thrift Stores The staff at Treasures and Treasures Too welcome you to join them in a worthy cause to help Mason

General Hospital Foundation.

Many departments, such as Arts & Crafts, Collectibles, Linens, Clothing, Books, cashiering, stocking, sorting, need the help of quality people. Volunteers “earn” a coupon for 50% off a single item for every four hours worked; in addition to great camaraderie, and a couple of parties per year.

If interested in volunteering with Treasures and Treasures Too, contact Sandy, Terina or Tersa at (360) 427-3858, or stop by the store at 305 W. Railroad Ave. in downtown Shelton. They are open seven days a week, so no matter what your schedule is, they have a day or time that will suit you!

Building Your Brain by Using It Functional imaging studies of normal brains suggest that it’s possible to alter the nerve circuitry and perhaps even build brain tissue by giving the brain new challenges frequently.

Although processing speed slows with aging, the brain remains plastic throughout life, capable of forming new neural connections in response to new experiences or a changing environment.

[SOURCE: “Cultivating a Winner’s Brain,” Harvard Mental Health Letter, May, 2010]

Steven’s on Railroad presents the

Dancing and fun with your friends, plus a dance competition with $20 entry fee per couple and prizes, hearty appetizers, gift shop, silent auction, espresso bar, raffle, and a no-host bar. Reservations required. $35 per person. Table of 10: $350. 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Co-sponsored by South Sound Radiology

7th Annual Masked Affair to benefit the

Karen Hilburn Breast & Cervical Cancer Fund in affiliation with

MGH Foundation

Casual or Formal Attire (masks are optional)

Heavy hors d’oeuvres, wine, live

and silent auction, with live music.

Thursday, October 21, 2010 at 6 p.m.

Steven’s on Railroad 203 W. Railroad Ave. Shelton, Washington

Tickets: $50 per person, Event Poster sponsored by Memorial Tree: Co-sponsored by Mickey Goodwin & Kippy Dalton Programs and Advertising Sponsor: Christmas Village

reservations required, as space is limited

Call (360) 427-3623 for reservations

A f u n dra i s er of MGH F oU nd ati on

Fantasy Forest 2010: “Winter Magic” MGH Foundation’s annual Fantasy Forest “Winter Magic” event will take place Tuesday, November 16 through Saturday, November 20, 2010 at The Pavilion at Sentry Park in Shelton.

The annual event will be immersed in a setting of sparkling, beautifully-decorated holiday trees and festive decor, all built around this year’s theme − “Winter Magic”.

The five-day event offers something for everyone − food and refreshments, entertainment, games, crafts, gift shops, raffles, live and silent auctions, and much more. This year’s event will kick off with the Fantasy Laugh Factory, an evening of live comedy entertainment for adults.

The children’s event, Candy Cane Carnival, will feature Santa and other surprises for the kids. In addition, there will be the usual free events and activities the entire family can enjoy, including Open House, gift shops, a Holiday Bazaar, and beautiful tree displays. The Friday night adult event, Dance Fever, with dance band, Black Market Revue, will include a dance contest with winners determined by the audience.

“Each year, Fantasy Forest provides a week of excitement and fun for all ages. The funds raised are used to buy equipment for Mason General Hospital.” said Merlyn Flakus, event chair. Some of the items that past Fantasy Forest events have funded or helped to purchase are: digital mammography machine, an ultrasound machine, a Lifepak® defibrillator, two birthing beds, and a bronchoscope.

To volunteer for one of the many events – call (360) 427-3623.

Tell a friend...

Digital makes a difference.

Digital mammography is now available at MGH! Advantages of digital mammography:

901 Mountain View Drive PO Box 1668, Shelton, WA 98584-5001 (360) 426-1611, from Allyn (360) 275-8614 TTY/TTD: (360) 427-9593 Translation services provided. Se habla español.

Equal Opportunity Provider.

Physician referral line: (360) 427-9551

• Improved image quality for all women, especially those under 50 years of age • Reduced patient exam time, increasing availability of appointment times • Ease of access & transfer of patient images & records • Images are immediately available for consultation with healthcare specialists, as needed MGH is a member of the National Consortium of Breast Centers.

All of our mammographers and radiologists are certified in digital breast imaging. For an appointment call (360) 427-9590.

Foundation 2010 Memorial Tree MGH Each year, during MGH Foundation’s Fantasy Forest event, there is a special Memorial Tree dedicated to community members who passed away during that current year and whom had been loyal supporters of the Foundation, Mason General Hospital, and the Hospital’s mission to provide quality healthcare in Mason County. This year’s memorial tree is dedicated in the memory of Bobbie Goodwin.

Purchase an ornament for YOUR friends 2010 Ornament or loved ones...

To purchase a memorial ornament for your loved one or a friend to hang on the Memorial Tree during Fantasy Forest, complete the order form found on MGH Foundation’s web page at www.MasonGeneral.com. The deadline for accepting orders is Monday, November 1, 2010 You can order three ways – 1. Mail the form to MGHF, PO Box l668, Shelton, WA 98584 2. Fax to the Foundation office at (360) 427-4448 3. Drop off the completed form to the Foundation Office located in Gateway Center behind McDonald’s on Olympic Highway North The cost per ornament is $30.

New Orthopedic Surgeon to Begin Seeing Patients in December F

rederick J. Davis, M.D., boardcertified in orthopedic surgery, has joined the staff at Mason General Hospital and MGH Shelton Orthopedics – both part of Public Hospital District No. 1.

Dr. Davis received his medical degree from Dalhousie Medical School, Halifax, Nova Scotia, and did his internship and residency at the University of Washington School of Medicine. His Frederick J. Davis, M.D. specialties include joint replacement, general orthopedics and fracture care. “Working with the patient to help them overcome a physical challenge is the most rewarding part of orthopedics,” Dr. Davis said. “This is accomplished by setting goals for positive outcomes with varying solutions – no matter what the health condition.

It is so gratifying to be a part of making a difference in a patient’s life.” Dr. Davis will begin seeing patients on Tuesday, December 7 at MGH Shelton Orthopedics, located next to Shelton Family Medicine. He will start taking appointments in November. Please call 427-0663 for an appointment.

News Briefs .......................................................... …Congratulations to MGH “Employee of the Month” for September – Marcia Rohlik, R.N.-C., MSN, director of The Birth Center; and for October - Shane Laford, CT tech, diagnostic imaging. …Congratulations to Frankie Zehrung, R.N., emergency department, for celebrating 40 years of service at MGH! …MGH Patient Navigation Program Needs Frankie Zehrung, R.N. Outreach Workers - If you are a breast cancer survivor or if you are a woman who wants to help other women in your community learn more about early breast cancer detection and how it saves lives, we want to hear from you. We are still looking for women in the Matlock and Allyn areas to provide breast cancer educa­ tion and early detection information in their communities. A stipend will be provided. For more information please contact Karry Trout, (RT)(RM), Patient Navigator at (360) 432-7706.

…Michael Keep, M.D. has joined the medical staff at Shelton Family Medicine and Mason General Hospi­ tal. He began his practice there in mid-September and is presently taking new Michael Keep, M.D. patients. Dr. Keep received his medical degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies; and completed his resi­ dency at St. Peter Family Practice Residency Program in Olympia, Washington. He was the chief resident at St. Peter Family Medicine Residency Program and comes to Mason General with high regard. Dr. Keep enjoys providing comprehensive, family-oriented care to help patients reach their full health potential by promoting wellness and offering counsel in times of illness. His medical interests include preventive medicine and health promotion, pediatrics, and teaching. While not at his practice, Dr. Keep enjoys doing home improve­ ment projects, cooking, live music and theatre, kayaking, and traveling.

Classes/Support Groups ...The Shelton and Allyn Diabetes Support Groups, as well the Congestive Heart Failure Support Group, will join together for their 2010 buffet luncheon, to be held on October 21 from 1 to 2 p.m. in the downstairs meeting rooms at Mason General Hospital. As the annual luncheon meeting is being combined, there will be no separate diabetes group meeting in Allyn for October. MGH Registered Dieti­ tians, Candy Mattson and Sarah Fulkerson will be providing practical tips on how to shop locally for low-sodium recipe ingredients, and there will be prizes and fun learning activities related to low-sodium food. A salmon entrée will be prepared

by MGH’s Executive Chef, John Cruse, and staff, with a non-salmon entree available upon request. The cost for the luncheon is $6 per person, and reservations must be made no later than October 15, by calling (360) 426-1611, ext. 3301 (from Allyn (360) 275-8614 ext. 3301). …If diabetes is a part of your life, plan to attend Mason General Hospital’s next two-day session entitled “Living Well With Diabetes” on November 2 and 3 from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Ellinor Room at MGH. To register, call Sue Barwick, R.N., certified diabetes educator at (360) 426-1611, ext. 3301 (Allyn (360) 275-8614, ext. 3301). Diabetes education is a covered service under most insurance plans. …Mason General Hospital’s next FREE Adult, Child, and Infant Basic Life Support CPR class will be held on Thursday, October 14, 2010 from 6 to 9 p.m. in the MGH Learning Center located next to McDonald’s on Olympic Highway North.

Everyone attending the class is asked to wear comfortable clothes. There will be a Spanish interpreter available upon request. Pre-registration for the class is required, as class size is limited. Reservations must be made by Friday, October 8, by calling the MGH Learning Center at (360) 427-3609. This is not a First Aid class.

…Kimberly Elliott, D.O., PhD has joined the medi­ cal staff at Shelton Family Medicine and Mason Gen­ eral Hospital. She started seeing patients in early September, and offers a Kimberly Elliott, broad spectrum of medical D.O., PhD services to her patients.

Dr. Elliott received her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine and Doctor of Philosophy in Molecu­ lar Genetics from Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences in Tulsa, Oklahoma in 2007. She completed her internship and residency with the Family Medicine Residency of Idaho Rural Training Track in Boise, an af­ filiate of the University of Washington Medical School. Dr. Elliott believes in patient-centered care with a focus on wellness and preventive medicine, and has specialized training in women’s health, dermatological procedures, weight and nutrition management, and chronic disease management. Her personal interests include traveling, cooking, art, and hiking outdoors with her husband and son.

Employee Focus: Live, Learn, Work at MGH

Marcia Rohlik, R.N.-C., MSN, director, The Birth Center

Marcia Rohlik, R.N.-C., MSN, has been at Mason General Hospital for six years – the last five years as director of The Birth Center.

In her role as director, Marcia works with administration, staff and patients, and she states, “My work is very meaningful, as I work with great people in an organization that really cares about its staff and patients. In all of my 35 years of nursing, I must say this is the greatest group I have worked with.” The Birth Center at MGH has three board-certified obstetricians at Mountain View Women’s Health Clinic, who deliver the more than 300 babies born annually at MGH.

Byrd, Smith Enjoy Promoting Mason General B

oosting public awareness and resources for Mason General Hospital is a goal Janis Byrd and Bill Smith share.

Serving as the current president and vice president of the Mason General Hospital Foundation, respectively, Janis and Bill both plan to work with the Foundation Board to accomplish this.

“I hope to bring solid leadership and the ability to help build bridges between individuals, organizations, Janis Byrd, current president of Maand businesses. I know that having a son General Hospital Foundation, strong hospital is a key driver of future and Bill Smith, the Foundation’s vice economic development, and feel it is president. critical to do whatever I can do to make that happen,” said Janis. She and Bill have both volunteered with the Foundation for three years now, after each accepted invitations from friends to join. Janis said she enjoys “the camaraderie of local folks engaged in a local, ongoing effort to make a positive difference in our community.”

Janis wants “to help bridge a perceived gap between the Hospital and its good works, and the business community.” Besides raising public awareness of Mason General’s resources to the community, Janis also wants to increase monetary donations for medical equipment, training, and public educational programs, as she continues to mentor new Founda­ tion Board members. She aims to do this “…all while having fun working with a fantastic bunch of dedicated community members, celebrating big and little accomplishments that make living in the Shelton-Mason County area fantastic!”

Janis and Bill have both already been serving in their present leadership positions with the Foundation for almost a year – Janis having recently stepped up from her role as vice president to replace a former president. Bill adds, “My goals for the Foundation for the coming year are the shared goals of the entire Board – to increase active participation by local residents in Board activities; to increase awareness of the Foundation’s purpose through local and regional educational efforts; and to generate further sustainable revenue through new and existing Foundation efforts.”

Dental Disease in Children More Common Than Asthma Though preventable, dental disease is the most common chronic disease of childhood; it is five times more common than asthma. A child whose mouth is hurting may experience trouble sleeping, delayed speech development, have difficulty paying attention in school, and be at risk of further health problems. The medical staff at Oakland Bay Pediatrics is committed to preventing dental disease with their young patients. All physicians and medical staff were trained to do oral health screenings during well-child exams. The trainings were coordinated by Mason County Public Health (MCPH) and Washington Dental Service Foundation (WDSF).

“Medical providers usually see a child eight times or more by age three for well-child checks,” according to MCPH Educator, Heidi Iyall.

“It is the perfect opportunity to provide oral health screenings to try and prevent cavities.”

Oral health screenings are now recommended for all children by age one, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics and American Academy of Family Physicians.

OBP Nurse Practitioner, Therese Pizanti, ARNP, said of the Oakland Bay Pediatric staff, “They loved the training! Oral health posters and educational materials have been added to all the clinic rooms. Staff are talking to parents about their child’s oral health and making dental referrals during well-child exams. We are also providing fluoride varnish treatments to help protect children’s teeth from cavities.”

Call Oakland Bay Pediatrics today at (360) 426-3102 to schedule your child’s next well-child exam.

Hilburn Fund

continued from page 1

that ‘all is well’. “I am so grateful to Karen and her Fund,” Michelle said, while enjoying a fall afternoon at Harmony Hill. “I don’t know how I would have paid for this if it hadn’t been for Karen’s Fund.” If you know of anyone that may need assistance from the KHBCC Fund – call Karry Trout, Patient Navigator for MGH’s Early Detection and Patient Navigation Program, at (360) 432-7706.

Caring for Your F , y l i m ami Fa r ly. u O Shelton Family Medicine

Oakland Bay Pediatrics

(360) 426-2653

(360) 426-3102

MGH Family Health (360) 426-3862

Operated by MGH

Operated by MGH

MGH Shelton Orthopedics (360) 427-0663

MGH Surgery Clinic

Mountain View Women’s Health Clinic Operated by MGH

(360) 426-0955

MGH Eye Clinic (360) 426-8717

MGH Ankle & Foot

(360) 426-4142

(360) 427-0366

Accredited by the Joint Commission • TTY/TTD: (360) 427-9593 • Translation Services Provided \ Se habla español • Equal Opportunity Provider

MGH Foundation can help you “Create a Legacy” With Estate Giving E

very year Mason General Hospital Foundation receives gifts designated by the members of our community through the their wills. Some of these donations the Foundation is Please usnevelope aware of, while others come as a surprise. All gifts to the enclosed eur tax-free Foundation are appreciated and used to help enhance local yo to make io healthcare. To these people we say, thank you! n to help t a n o d ason Throughout the year, the Foundation welcomes the support M opportunity to recognize and thank Foundation donors spital.

General Ho - whether privately or through membership in the Endurured ing Flame Society. If you have designated a gift to MGH make a sence go to o T Foundation and you would like for us to be aware of onli . donation n it, or if you are interested in learning more about how eneral.com G o s a .M www you can make an estate gift to the Foundation, please contact Jennifer Capps, chief development officer at (360) 427-3622.

The Foundation thanks all members of our community who choose to contribute to the Founda­ tion throughout the year. For more information about the Foundation visit www.MasonGeneral.com.

MGH Foundation Contributors Memorialized Mason General Hospital Foundation would like to acknowledge former contributors. Listed below are supporters, now deceased, whom the Foundation would like to recognize for their past support of our mission and work in the community. Please join us in acknowledging their contribution to the Foundation during their lifetimes.

Gordon Adams Louise Bennett Arthur O. Biehl Mavis Hopland Bob L. King

Jane Martin Robert A. Parker Joseph J. Schmitt William Stinchfield Joan R. Towhey

Memorial Contributions

Mason General Hospital Foundation has received generous donations in memory of the individuals listed below. Donors and memo­ rialized individuals listed in this report reflect contributions made to the Foundation beginning July 9, 2010 and ending September 13, 2010.

Gordon Adams George & Marcia Booth Connie Franklin Bellaine West

Joann Tupper Bellaine West Glenn R. Yates Eric & Frances Rice

Please be advised that every effort has been made to ensure the integrity of this listing. If we have inadvertently omitted any names, please accept our apologies and most sincere thanks for your generosity and continued support of Mason General Hospital Foundation.

Welcome New

Pediatrician, Dr. Ramirez Maria Rowena Ramirez, M.D.

Dr. Maria Rowena Ramirez

joined Oakland Bay Pediatrics in July and is now accepting new patients. She recently completed her pediatric residency at Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Ohio, in June 2010, and received her medical degree in 2000 from Medical School University of San Tomas, Philippines, and is board eligible in pediatrics.

www.MasonGeneral.com

(360) 426-3102 247 Professional Way Shelton, WA 98584

Sodium – What Harm Can It Do?

By Rebecca Carpenter

A little salt goes a long way. But how much

is too much?

“The current recommended daily sodium intake is less than 2,300 milligrams, which is about 1 teaspoon of salt a day,” said Candy Mattson, a registered dietitian at Mason General Hospital. “This amount must include all of the salt we add in cooking, add at the table, eat in already- prepared canned, baked, or frozen-foods, and even what we consume in the medications we take,” Mattson explained. “However, many Americans consume an average of 5,000 - 10,000 milligrams of sodium per day, with much of it coming from the processed foods they buy.

Unprocessed foods contain sodium in only very small amounts,” Mattson said.

Why is so much salt added to the food we buy? “Sodium may be added as a preservative, to modify flavor, to enhance color, or as a stabilizer.

Canned foods (meats, soups and vegetables), precooked items such as deli foods, prepared mixes, salad dressings, and snack foods are some of the saltiest items we eat,” she added.

What harm can eating too much salt do?

Too much salt, also known as sodium chloride, can contribute to fluid or “water” retention, swelling (often noticeable in the legs), and high blood pressure when the kidneys can’t eliminate the extra sodium fast enough. “If the extra fluid overwhelms your lungs, you may feel short of breath. If the extra fluid collects around your heart it can have problems functioning, and this may contribute to congestive heart failure, stroke, or heart attack,” Mattson said.

Still, the human body does need a certain amount of sodium to regulate blood pressure and volume, transmit nerve impulses, and regulate its acid/base balance. “Too little sodium can cause muscle cramps and fatigue, but too much sodium is a far greater problem in America today,” Mattson said. To help reduce sodium intake, Mattson advises reading the labels on groceries. “Note the serving size and then the milligrams of sodium in that amount of food.

Many food brands are now producing lower sodium alternatives, such as Nabisco’s ‘Hint of Salt’ crackers or Safeway’s ‘low-sodium’ cottage cheese. Ask for help at your local grocery store to locate these and other lower-sodium products,” she said. “When you eat out, ask which items are lower in sodium. Many wonderful low-sodium recipes can be found on internet sites such as www.lowsodiumcooking.com.”

901 Mountain View Drive, Shelton, WA For information: (360) 432-7706

Clinics

Approved by The Joint Commission

Our Mission: We take every possible action to protect and promote the health of the people in Mason County while extending respect and compassion as we serve each individual.

Published by: Public Hospital District No. 1 for Mason General Hospital and Clinics.

Published six times per year. Editor: McCarty & Associates, Inc. “a marketing firm”.

Business Office: Office hours: 8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Monday – Friday. Spanish Translator Available. Located at Gateway Center, 2505 Olympic Hwy N., Suite 460, (360) 427-9547 Mason General Hospital: Visiting hours: 8 a.m. – 8:30 p.m., daily. Intensive Care Unit (ICU) visiting hours: special hours on a patient-by-patient basis, call for Unit hours.

Exercise Crucial to Healthy Weight Loss It’s possible to lose weight by diet alone, but you’ll gain more health benefits if you include exercise as part of the plan. In a randomized clinical study, overweight men and women all lost weight during a six-month program requiring a 25 percent energy deficit. One group eliminated 25 percent of their daily calories through diet alone; the other eliminated 12.5 percent through diet and 12.5 percent through regular aerobic exercise.

While both groups saw reductions in body mass, fat mass and abdominal obesity, the diet plus exercise group had greater improvement in insulin sensitivity, LDL cholesterol and diastolic blood pressure.

[SOURCE: D. Enette Larson-Meyer, et al, “Caloric restriction with or without exercise: the fitness versus fatness debate,” Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, February, 2010]

Welcome

Family Practice Physicians Kimberly Elliott, D.O. & Michael Keep, M.D.

W

e are pleased to announce the addition of two physicians we know you will like! Drs. Elliott and Keep started seeing patients at Shelton Family Medicine in September.

Dr. Elliott has special interests in dermatology, women’s health, preventive medicine, osteopathic medicine, and pediatrics. Dr. Keep adds pediatrics and preventive medicine as his special interests.

To make an appointment to see them or one of our many other highly qualified medical providers, call the Clinic at (360) 426-2653. Some evening and weekend appointments are Where caring counts. Feel the difference.

Where caring counts.

Feel the difference.

Operated by Mason General Hospital Operatedavailable.

by Mason General Hospital

Shelton Family Medicine

www.MasonGeneral.com

Shelton Family Medicine

(360) 426-2653 or (800) 824-8885 939 Mtn. View Dr., Ste. 100, Shelton, WA Hours: M-F: clinic opens at 8 a.m.

(Call for evening & weekend hours)

1 Mountain View Women’s Health Clinic 2 MGH Eye Clinic 3 Shelton Family Medicine 4 MGH Shelton Orthopedics 5 MGH Ankle & Foot 6 MGH Family Health 7 MGH Surgery Clinic 8 Oakland Bay Pediatrics

Located at: 901 Mountain View Drive, PO Box 1668, Shelton, WA 98584-5001, (360) 426-1611, from Allyn (360) 275-8614. Serving the medical needs of Mason County since 1968.

Accredited by the Joint Commission. TTY/TTD: (360) 427-9593.

Translation Services Provided. Se habla español. Equal Opportunity Provider.

Administration: Bob Appel, chief executive officer; Eric Moll, chief administrative officer; Roy G. Belville, M.D., chief of staff; Scott Hilburn, commissioner/president; Nancy Trucksess and Don Wilson, commissioners.

Mason General Hospital Arts Commission is busy Students’ Art Project Returns for 2nd Year After the very successful fall 2009 Students’ Art Project, which received more than 700 entries, Mason General Hospital Fo u n d a t i o n ’ s ( M G H F ) A r t s Commission launched its second annual competition to first through twelfth grade students at Mason County schools in September. It is also open to home-schooled students. The deadline for submitting the 2010 entries to the student’s school’s main office is Thursday, October 28, 2010. The 40 chosen winners will be notified in mid-November with an Artists Reception to take place Tuesday, November 30. An art show will follow, open to the public, beginning Friday, December 3 at Arts Talks Frame Shop & Gallery in downtown Shelton. The show will run to the end of December before the art is installed in patient rooms throughout Mason General Hospital.

MGHF 2011 Arts Calendar to Debut in October MGHF Arts Commission’s 1st annual calendar that features the 40

winning pieces of student art from the 2009 Students’ Art Project (see story above) will go on sale this month. The 2011 calendar will be available at the gift bar in Mason General Hospital, MGH Foundation/Development Office at Gateway Center behind McDonald’s, Treasures Thrift Store, Sage Book Store, and Art Talks in downtown Shelton; and in Union at Cameo Boutique, and Alderbrook Country Store. The cost of the calendar is $10 and all proceeds from sales will go to funding the annual Students ‘Art Project.

For additional information, call the Foundation Office at (360) 427-3622, or email pegjstock@comcast.net.