SCOPE Magazine August 2013

AUGUST 2013 VOL. 29, NO. NO.4 4 MASON GENERAL HOSPITAL & FAMILY OF CLINICS

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“Heart-Beat Central” @ MGH&FC

Award-winning Information Systems Page 3

Get moving Firefighter/Paramedic Mark Frazier ‘gets moving’ and loves it!

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MGH Eye Clinic now treats macular degeneration

2013

Information Systems is “Heart-Beat Central” for patient care When you walk into the office of Tom

Hornburg, MGH&FC’s chief information officer – you know right away you have stepped into an area that is the backbone of important “information.”

You see large monitors that bring up “tech” information and actions as simple as a mouse-click. If one wants to be creative, they could call Information Systems (IS) Heart-Beat Central for Mason General Hospital and its eight Clinics.

This department of 11 employees touches, in one way or another, nearly every patient visit, and the work-activity of more than 550 Hospital District employees. This is a department that never sleeps – it runs 24/7.

Information and quality care To the average person, an information system is “just hardware and software” or “wires,” as non-computer experts routinely call it. In a medical environment, however, it is much more than just “wires”. According to Hornburg, an information system is not merely “wires” – but clinical information and patient data which are all central to the purpose of communicating information to enhance MGH&FC’s continuity of patient care. Hornburg explains, “Our mission throughout the Hospital and Clinics is patient-centered care. And it all begins with information – from Registration, to the line nurse, to the

On the cover:

healthcare provider, and in some cases – to Pharmacy and then on to patient accounts. Wherever the patient goes – to the Hospital or to a Clinic – there is a continuity of care made possible through the information system.” An example is when the Emergency Department physician puts information in the patient’s chart, it will follow the patient to the next care site – Laboratory, Diagnostic Imaging, Pharmacy, Patient Resources, Respiratory Care, Surgery, and other departments, including the Clinics (when the patient receives follow-up care).

What it really means to be “Most Wired” It’s easy to see that MGH&FC Information Systems excels in patient care by looking at the last six “awards” they have received for being one of the “Most Wired Hospitals” in the nation, according to Hospitals & Health Networks (H&HN). H&HN uses the Most Wired Survey to evaluate Information Technology (IT) systems across four categories: infrastructure, business and administrative management, clinical quality and safety, and clinical integration. It focuses on how hospitals use information technologies for quality of care, customer service, public health and safety, business processes, and workforce issues. Most Wired Hospitals have better drug formulary checks and drug interaction alerts than hospitals in general, and are better prepared for

MGH&FC’s Information Systems (IS) department was recognized in July for the sixth year in row as a “Most Wired Hospital.” Enjoying the accolades (once again) for being at the “top of their game” is the IS staff, headed by Tom Hornburg, chief information officer (center, kneeling). Other staff members are: (clockwise) Sara Perrott; Angela Lewis, RN, BSN; Savanna Dominguez-Alvarez; Susan Powell, RN; Won Lee; Shayne Albaugh; Kris Davies; Justin Stromberg; Karl Hentschel; and Gary Diemert (kneeling, right). Cover photo by Cooper Studio, Shelton.

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security breaches, employing more tools to protect patient data. They monitor their IT performance more closely, and monitor their health system’s overall performance more thoroughly, as well as engaging more patients online in social media sites.

“This honor isn’t about just having the best “wires”, added Hornburg. “This recognition is a testament to the dedication of the providers and our District staff - who maintain the most efficient exchange of patient information possible, that maximizes the coordination of care in order to improve the patient experience and outcomes.”

In addition to Hornburg, 11 people in IS make up the three departments – Information Technology (IT), Clinical Informatics (CI), and Decision Support (DS) – Gary Diemert, supervisor, IT; Karl Hentschel, network administrator, IT; continued on page 14...

Now located at South Entrance

MGHF’s new Auxiliary Gift Shop

is open for your gift-giving needs, or if you just want to spoil yourself!

New location, new merchandise, new everything!

Also for sale is Carolyn Maddux’s book - Care: A Hospital for Mason County.

get moving Firefighter/Paramedic challenges himself to ‘get moving’ Local firefighter and paramedic, Mark Frazier is enjoying a new level of physical fitness after his 50-pound weight loss.

About a year ago, local firefighter and paramedic, Mark Frazier, along with his wife, Tanya, decided to get healthy and lose weight. “We had become engaged and wanted to look good for our wedding,” he said, adding that the couple also wanted to be healthy for their children, and to keep up with their careers.

“I was 30 (years old) and my blood pressure and blood sugar were entirely too high,” he said. Mark attributes these issues to 50 pounds he gained when ‘living in his car’ while working and attending paramedic school. “Paramedic school is the best thing I’ve ever done, but it was highly stressful and I was having too much coffee and energy drinks, and eating too much junk food,” he said. So the weight went on.

According to Mark, most line-of-duty deaths with firefighters result from cardiac arrest, another factor that motivated him to lose the weight. “I didn’t want to be another statistic,” he said. A change in diet and more physical activity helped him lose 50 pounds and brought his blood sugar and blood pressure back to normal.

New habits included limiting carbohydrates and eating from smaller dinner plates. As a bonus, the couple’s monthly grocery bill dropped $400, and Mark competed in his first fireman stair challenge. “We climbed 69 floors at the Columbia Tower in Seattle, wearing full gear.

In the past I thought I could never do that. But then I realized, I’m a firefighter; I need to do all the things other firefighters do. I can do this,” said Mark.

Mark is working to maintain his weight loss by physically challenging himself. He entered the Centennial Guild’s Goldsborough Creek Run last June (see story, page 8), and plans to compete in a second stair climb in September. “The date for it just happens to coincide with my first wedding anniversary,” he added.

Two ways of measuring weight risk Excess fat around the waist can be measured through one of two methods: 1) waist circumference, and 2) waist-to-hip ratio. Studies have generally found the methods equally effective in determining health risks.

The first method involves simply using a tape measure to determine waist circumference. Men measuring more than 40 inches and women, more than 35 inches are at increased risk. Waist-to-hip ratio involves dividing waist circumference by hip circumference.

[SOURCE: Harvard School of Public Health, “Waist size matters.”]

SCOPE 3

community Be careful on the water this summer!

It’s summer in Mason County, and with more than 90 miles of water to play in, boating and swimming opportunities abound.

No one likes to think about the dangers open water can pose, but according to the Washington State Department of Health, Mason County has one of the highest unintentional drowning rates in the state. Eleven accidental drowning deaths were reported in Mason County from 2002 to 2011, which represents a rate one percent higher than other counties in Washington.

The good news is that many of these drowning deaths can be prevented by

following a few precautions. To keep yourself and others safe in the water, follow these tips from the Seattle & King County Drowning Prevention Coalition and Seattle Children’s Hospital: Learn swimming and water safety survival skills.

Never swim alone.

Obey all safety signs and warning flags.

Know how and when to use a life jacket, and always use one when boating.

Never swim or boat after drinking alcohol or using other drugs.

Swim in areas with lifeguards.

Know the water and weather conditions before getting in the water.

Always enter shallow and unknown water feet-first.

Always provide close and constant supervision to children in or near water.

Know your limits. Drowning often occurs when a swimmer fatigues or gets too cold.

Learn more online at www.seattlechildrens.org/dp.

To learn more about water safety at home, around pools, and while boating, go to www.safekids.org/watersafety.

Dr. Dean Gushee inducted into Explorers Club MGH&FC’s Chief Medical Officer Dean Gushee, M.D., board-certified in emergency medicine, was recently inducted into one of the most exclusive clubs in the world – The Explorers Club. The Explorers Club is an international organization headquartered in New York City, founded in 1904, to recognize scientific explorers, and to provide them with a place to meet and share their stories. Those invited to join must demonstrate a lifelong commitment to scientific exploration.

“Criteria for membership requires you to be part of a scientific expedition with the intent to advance the knowledge of science,” said Gushee. “It was an unexpected thing for me to be nominated. It requires two nominations from active members, and I was really surprised that I got accepted.”

With 30 chapters worldwide, The Explorers Club has a long list of famous members including aviator, Charles Lindbergh, astronaut, John Glen, and Titanic discoverer, Robert Ballard.

MGH&FC Chief Medical Officer Dean Gushee, M.D., holds a copy of National Geographic. One of his photos of Emperor penguins was selected from over 60,000 images to be published in the magazine. Because of his work as a photographer/explorer, he was inducted into The Explorers Club.

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One of Gushee’s nominators was Don Walsh. Walsh was credited with making a record descent into the depths of the Mariana Trench, which is the deepest part of the Pacific Ocean, at over 37,000 feet. The nomination came after Gushee served as the ship’s physician for a National Geographic expedition that studied the underwater behaviors of Antarctica’s Emperor penguins. The exploration team camped on ice for four weeks and spent much of that time observing the penguins and photographing their behaviors.

An accomplished wildlife photographer, Gushee submitted 11,000 images from the expedition, that were evaluated alongside 50,000 images submitted by National Geographic’s professional photographers. One of his photos was continued on page 14…

By any other name, it’s still sugar Sucrose, glucose, high fructose corn syrup, fruit juice concentrates, dextrose, molasses, corn sweetener, brown sugar, cane sugar, honey – they’re all sugar, something you can live without. There are 10 teaspoons of it in a 12-ounce can of soda pop.

Annual Women’s Health Event successfully serves our community

Your body doesn’t need any added sugar, and too much of it can cause weight gain and contribute to health problems such as heart disease and diabetes. Health experts recommend limiting added sugars to 10 percent of your daily diet.

[SOURCE: Sugary drinks or diet drinks: what’s the best choice?” Harvard School of Public Health]

Wellness & Resource Fair The City of Shelton, which was recently recognized by the Association of Washington Cities as a “Well City,” is partnering with Mason County Emergency Communications (MACECOM), Mason Transit Authority, Mason County Public Health, and Mason General Hospital & Family of Clinics to host the Shelton Wellness and Resource Fair on Thursday, October 17, 2013 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Shelton Civic Center. The purpose of this event is for local vendors to provide information on various resources available in our community that relate to health and wellness, such as: healthy eating, physical activity, stress management, employment benefits, illness prevention, chronic disease management, and emotional/mental well-being.

Vendor applications are available on the City of Shelton website at www.ci.shelton.wa.us, or by calling (360) 432-5103. Applications, which are due no later than September 6th, should be submitted to: the City of Shelton, Attn: Lesleann, 525 W. Cota Street, Shelton, WA 98584. Vendor spaces will be reserved on a first come, first served basis. The public is invited to participate in this FREE community event!

Karry Trout, BA, RT(R)(M), CBPN-IC; Mozell Snider, Reg Rad Tech (CT)(M); Shawn Peters, Reg Rad Tech (M); and Jody Olsen, Reg Rad Tech (M) show off their new KHBCCF vests and jackets during the Women’s Health Event in May.

Once again, headed by patient Navigator Karry Trout, BA, RT(R)(M), CBPN-IC MGH&FC hosted a successful FREE Women’s Health Event in May. Thanks to the financial support of the Karen Hilburn Breast and Cervical Cancer Fund (KHBCCF); the Washington Breast, Cervical and Colon Health Program; and Susan G. Komen for the Cure of Puget Sound, 35 women between the ages of 40 and 65 who are uninsured or underinsured for mammograms received a free, digital mammogram screening. “One of the women attending, who, unfortunately, had never had a mammogram, was diagnosed with cancer. We were able to expedite her care that day,” said Karry. “We continue to see more women each time we host this event who have never had a mammogram. Fortunately, we rarely find cancer.”

Some of the other free services offered at the event included blood pressure checks and diabetes testing, women’s health information on cervical cancers, and mini massages provided by volunteers from Kaleidoscope Massage. MGH’s Debbie McGinnis, R.N., BSN, screened 33 women for diabetes. Four of the women screened had elevated blood sugars and one had yet to be diagnosed with diabetes. continued on page 8…

Yoga good for teen moods High school students who participated in a yoga program for a semester showed significantly better mood/tension/anxiety scores compared to students taking the usual physical education class. The study was published in the Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics [April, 2012]. Larger studies in multiple school settings are needed to duplicate the results.

[SOURCE: Deborah Brauser, “Yoga good for teen anxiety,” Medscape Medical News, April 19, 2012] SCOPE 5

quality MGH Eye Clinic’s new treatments provide continuity of care, locally Avastin injections and fluorescein angiograms are now available at MGH Eye Clinic – great news for those with wet macular degeneration.

Beginning in May, Monica Vuong, M.D., board-certified ophthalmologist and eye surgeon at MGH Monica B. Vuong, Eye Clinic, started M.D. administering Avastin Board Certified, Ophthalmologist injections to treat patients with ‘wet’ type age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Macular degeneration is an eye condition that causes loss of vision due to abnormal growth of blood vessels in the back of the eye, and is the leading cause of vision loss in Americans 60 years and older. It is a disease that destroys sharp, central vision, which is needed to see objects clearly and to do tasks such as reading and driving.

In the wet form of macular degeneration, abnormal blood vessels grow under the macula, damaging it quickly. Avastin (bevacizumab) is a substance that blocks the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), inhibiting VEGF by helping to prevent further growth of the abnormal blood vessels.

For the diagnoses of patients with AMD and other ocular diseases, Dr. Vuong does fluorescein angiograms.

Fluorescein angiography consists of a series of pictures taken with the aid of optical coherence tomography (OCT), a non-contact diagnostic imaging device which allows the doctor to view the eye in a cross-section. A yellow dye called fluorescein sodium is administered intravenously, and viewed going through the blood vessels at the back of the eye, allowing the doctor to detect and manage various ocular diseases. These 6 S C O P E

diseases include AMD, as well as macular edema, and diabetic retinopathy.

MGH Eye Clinic has the area’s only fulltime, board-certified ophthalmologist and optometrist on staff. Dr. Vuong specializes in diseases of the eye such as glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. She performs eye surgeries such as cataract extractions, and also does surgeries of the eyelid. Optometrist Jenni Aaseby, O.D., specializes in contact lens fitting and does routine eye exams. Jenni R. Aaseby, “Regular comprehensive O.D. Optometrist eye exams can detect macular degeneration before the disease causes serious vision loss,” said Dr. Vuong.

The Eye Clinic offers total eye care, with state-of-the-art technology including the latest in wireless equipment and detailed scanning capability to provide the most precise images for the diagnoses and treatment of eye diseases and the highest quality medical care. With the addition of Avastin injections and fluorescein angiography patients can enjoy close-tohome convenience and better continuity of patient care. “These new procedures allow us to treat patients at the Eye Clinic, rather than sending them outside of the District or County for their treatment,” added Dr. Vuong.

MGH Eye Clinic is located at 2300 Kati Court, Suite C, in Shelton. To make an appointment call (360) 426-8717.

Yoga has benefits for Afib patients A 60-minute yoga session two times a week was found to improve symptoms and quality of life for patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, according to a recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology [2013]. Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia of the upper chambers of the heart.

Subjects taking the yoga classes showed improvements in heart rate, blood pressure, anxiety, depression and other symptoms of atrial fibrillation. More than a fifth of the subjects experienced no arrhythmic episodes while they were taking the yoga classes.

[SOURCE: Dhanunjaya Lakikireddy, M.D., et al, “Effect of yoga on arrhythmia burden, anxiety, depression, and quality of life in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation,” Journal of the American College of Cardiology 2013;61(11):1177-1182]

Yoga helps, but find a good teacher If your back has been killing you for longer than you want to remember, you might consider taking a yoga class. Because of its effects on flexibility of muscles and stress reduction, yoga has been found to be an effective treatment.

But don’t try to teach yourself. Some poses, if performed wrong, may do more harm than good. Find a good teacher who has had some experience teaching back pain patients.

[SOURCE: Anne Asher, “Yoga for back pain,” About.com Back & Neck Pain, updated January 27, 2013]

Chronic or severe wound?

New medical equipment for Women’s Health Clinic Help available locally for women’s bladder issues women can now be seen locally, at Mountain View Women’s Health (MVWH) in Shelton, for a diagnosis of bladder function issues. Since June, MVWH, a part of Mason General Hospital & Family of Clinics, has been helping women with bladder issues using a new piece of medical equipment that provides urodynamic bladder function testing.

“We see many patients with a need for this kind of care, and with research, found that the nearest providers were in Tacoma or Gig Harbor, and they all had significant wait times,” said Misti Webb, office manager at MVWH. Webb was instrumental in helping the Clinic’s team research the technology that will make MVWH a local solution for women in need of these services.

Lystra B. WilsonCelestine, M.D. Board Certified, Obstetrician/Gynecologist

“Dr. (Alford) Vassall and I did the research on wait times, equipment, and what the actual need in this community is.” added Webb, “and we found that the need was high.”

Nkemdilim Nwosa, M.D. Board Certified, Obstetrician/Gynecologist

Abdominal fat linked to stress If you’re under a lot of stress, you’re vulnerable to gaining weight

Thanks to trained specialists and a new piece of equipment,

In fact, when a letter was sent to patients asking if they would be willing to get involved in testing the new equipment, the Clinic received more than 14 requests from women who wanted to participate.

Need Ostomy or Continence special care? Don’t suffer any longer. Stay close to home when your physician refers you to MGH&FC Wound Care Services. Call (360) 432-3285.

Alford N. Vassall, Jr., M.D. Board Certified, Obstetrician/Gynecologist

Urodynamic testing will give physicians access to more accurate information, and Webb said the technology will also provide a computer summary of results, that actually measures findings for patients.

“The continuity of care we’ll be able to provide will be significantly better with this new equipment. I’m excited to be able offer this service to our patients, and the physicians are really excited as well,” said Webb, adding that the new testing will reveal to the physicians why a patient is having a problem.

“Now they’ll actually be able to fix the problem, rather than just apply a band-aid solution,” said Webb.

and excess girth around the middle. A study using blood and saliva tests to measure stress levels in young women asked to do complex speech and math tasks found that subjects experiencing the greatest stress were more likely to have thicker waist measurements.

[SOURCE: Tara Parker-Pope, “Watch your girth,” New York Times, May 13, 2008 (International Journal of Obesity)]

Parentsto-be you’re invited to...

The Birth Center at MGH

Get to know us.

In preparation for the joyous event, The Birth Center at Mason General Hospital offers a pre-registration tour in “Getting to Know Us.” Meet the staff, tour the facility, and discuss your concerns about breastfeeding, labor, delivery, and pain management options – including epidurals.

Working with board-certified obstetricians at Mountain View Women’s Health, our expert staff at the newlyremodeled Birth Center look forward to meeting you, and helping you feel great about the excellent care you and baby will receive.

Get acquainted with us now. Call Mountain View Women’s Health at (360) 426-0955 to schedule your tour of The Birth Center at MGH. SCOPE 7

Annual Fun Run/ Walk a great success!

The annual Goldsborough Creek Fun Run/Walk (2- and

giving Relay For Life raises funds

7-mile run or walk) was held in June as a part of the Mason County Forest Festival activities. There were nearly 250 participants from all over the area. Centennial Guild, a chapter of MGH Foundation, was the organizer of the event, with all proceeds going to Mason General Hospital & Family of Clinics.

This year’s Title Sponsor was Regence BlueShield.

nd e i Fr Fun

E Waven lk t er

MGH&FC’s Relay For Life raised more than $5,000 in its June event. MGH&FC has had a devoted team since 2002, and this year’s group included team members: Back row - Frankie Zehrung (ER, retired), Tahni O’Connor (OBP), Sara Perrott (IT), Kerry Rogers (PR), Kathy Marks (ICU), Barbara Lazowicki (EVS), Resa Honnen (family member), Team Captain Cindy Mortensen (PR Dir.), Paula Moll (family member), and Eric Moll (CEO). Front row - Kristen Sage (CR), Marcia Rohlik (ED, ICU, Birth Center Dir.), Brenda Rouston (CR), Co-Captain Monica Bates (Materials), Michelle Hults (family member), Megan Hults (family member), Margaret Hults (MSP), and Co-Captain Merry Antrim ((Materials Dir). Not pictured Sarah Fulkerson (Dietician), Candy Mattson (Dietician), Dawn Clark (OPS), JR Clark (family member), Ruth Benson (dietary), Jennifer Ellyson (BO), and Karry Trout (DI).

Women’s Event

continued from page 5…

“It was a very rewarding experience to help women who needed it. I am looking forward to organizing the Women’s Health Event again on October 19, during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month,” Karry added.

“I would like to thank everyone for their support in May’s event. Their involvement made this event a great success and gave women in our community access to the vital healthcare resources they needed.”

Climbing away from back pain

A four-week program of therapeutic climbing was found at least as effective, and superior in some ways, to standard exercise therapy as a treatment for chronic lower back pain, according to a small, randomized, controlled study.

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An increasingly popular rehabilitation option, therapeutic climbing involves core and trunk muscles and is believed to have psychological benefits for some patients.

[SOURCE: Kai Engbert and Michaela Weber, “The effects of therapeutic climbing in patients with chronic low back pain,” Spine, 2011;36(11):842-849]

How to leave a legacy -

MGH Foundation Endowment Fund

by Jennifer Capps, Chief Development and Communication Officer

One of the simplest ways to provide an enduring gift of support to Mason General Hospital Foundation is through your Will. By including the Foundation in your estate plans, you can designate some or all of your assets to the Foundation after your lifetime. At that time, the asset(s) you specify can be allocated to us, and your estate may be able to take a charitable deduction for the amount of your bequest, possibly reducing income and estate taxes payable.

How to name Mason General Hospital Foundation in your Will If you choose to include Mason General Hospital Foundation in your Will or other estate plan, we should be named as: Mason General Hospital Foundation, Post Office Box 1668, Shelton, WA 98584. Our tax identification number is 91-1529293.

Mason General Hospital Foundation would be pleased to work with you and your financial or tax advisor to establish the planned gift(s) most appropriate for you to achieve your financial planning goals.

Our communication with you about planned giving is strictly confidential and without obligation to you. For more information, please call (360) 427-3622 or send an email to jcapps@masongeneral.com.

Our Mission Mason General Hospital Foundation furthers the mission of Public Hospital District No. 1 of Mason County by enhancing the quality of healthcare enjoyed by the residents of Mason County by providing financial support to Mason General Hospital & Family of Clinics.

Please

use the enclosed envelope to make your tax-free donation to help support MGH&FC. To make a secured donation online go to www.MasonGeneral.com.

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

Steve Anderson Katherine Burleson Janis L. Byrd Christine M. Clawson Karen Marie Grinnell Patricia Howarth

Judy Krause Elspeth Pope Mildred I. Stevens Marilyn Wilson Charlotte Winne Donald R. Yorke

Memorial contributions made to MGHF Mason General Hospital Foundation has received generous donations in memory of the individuals listed below. Donors and memorialized individuals listed in this report reflect contributions made to the Foundation between May 2 and July 2, 2013.

Paul & Bonita Bourgault In Memory of: Marie Grinnell * Designated for the MGHF Auxiliary Robert & Emily Dunn In Memory of: Marie Grinnell Jane Gruver In Memory of: Bill & Dottie Brickert John Pill Virginia Pill Roger & Linda Hoff In Memory of: Janis Byrd Rick Coleman

Emily Hunt In Memory of: Steven Anderson Paul & Alice Johansson In Memory of: Marie Grinnell Bruce & Gina Munro In Memory of: Mildred & Ray Stevens William R. Nasmyth In Memory of: Pauline Bellaine West In Memory of: Janis Byrd

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.

SCOPE 9

giving Auxiliary elects officers and awards scholarships

At their year-end meeting, MGHF Auxiliary announced their 2013-14 officers:

(l to r) Connie Adams, president; Sara Watkins, vice president; Bonnie Salisbury, secretary; Diane Deeson, treasurer. Sue Glenn, past-president, hands the gavel to President Adams.

MGH Foundation joins Combined Federal Campaign Mason General Hospital Foundation (MGHF) has joined several other community-based organizations to be a part of the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC). According to Tamra Ingwaldson, executive director for United Way of Mason County, who spearheaded the collaboration, “Being a member of CFC allows federal employees to utilize payroll deduction for their philanthropic contributions.” For MGHF, this means that all federal employees who would like to donate to the Foundation via payroll deduction can now do so. To set this up, a federal employee needs to contact their payroll office and provide MGHF’s CFC # 27211.

Abdominal fat not good for bones Weight bearing exercise is one of the best things you can do to build strong bones and protect yourself from osteoporosis. But don’t expect excess weight to give you any advantages.

A study of 50 overweight or obese young women found an association between excess weight, particularly abdominal fat, and reduced bone density. The researchers would now like to find out if losing weight is effective in reducing that trend.

[SOURCE: Fran Lowry, “Excess premenopausal visceral fat a risk factor for osteoporosis,” Medscape Medical News, December 7, 2010 (Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) 96th Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting: Abstract SS1, 17-05, presented November 30, 2010]

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Three local students were the recipients of the annual MGHF Auxiliary Scholarships. Gabriela Perez, DeShon Bell, and Lindsey Cox were each awarded $1,000 scholarships during the Auxiliary’s end-of-the year meeting in May. The three students will go on to further their education in medically-related fields.

Proceeds from the sale of items at MGHF’s Auxiliary Gift Shop support the annual scholarships.

Foundation Awards 2013 American Business Women MGH Foundation announced its American Business Women Award honorees, which included Holly Cahoon, 2nd Street Design Studio; Kerry Myers, Robin Hood Holly Cahoon Restaurant and Pub; and Terri Roberts, Simpson Lumber Company. These women will be honored at a luncheon on Friday, September 20, 2013 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Mason County PUD #3 (new location) on Johns Prairie Road. Tickets for the Kerry Myers event are $25 per person. Every year, MGH Foundation honors outstanding business women in our community who are or were successful in their occupations, work or have worked in Mason County, and are active and volunteer in the community.

Terri Roberts

hola La esclerosis múltiple es más común lejos del ecuador La esclerosis múltiple se ve más frecuentemente en áreas lejos del ecuador – el sur de Canadá, la parte norteña de los Estados Unidos, Europa, y Nueva Zelanda. Algunos creen que menos luz del sol y las deficiencias de la vitamina D que resultan podrían ser factores de riesgo.

Un niño que se muda de un área geográfica de alto riesgo a un área geográfica de bajo riesgo suele adquirir el riesgo de su último hogar si el traslado ocurre antes de la pubertad.

[SOURCE: Mayo Clinic Staff, “Multiple sclerosis,” MayoClinic.com, December 15, 2012]

La esclerosis múltiple: los factores de riesgo del ambiente Se han identificado tres factores principales del ambiente para la esclerosis múltiple: 1) una historia de una infección del virus EpsteinBarr, 2) fumar, y 3) una deficiencia de la vitamina D. Según un análisis de investigación reciente, “la insuficiencia de la vitamina D es generalizado en países templados y en pacientes con la esclerosis múltiple en las etapas más tempranas de la enfermedad.”

[SOURCE: Charles Pierrot-Deseilligny, M.D., and Jean-Claude Souberbielle, Ph.D., “Contribution of vitamin D insufficiency to the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis,” Therapeutic Advances in Neurological Disorders, 2013,6(2):81-116]

Por cualquier otro nombre, aún es azúcar La sacarosa, la glucosa, el jarabe de maíz alto en fructosa, los concentrados de jugos de frutas, la dextrosa, la melaza, el edulcorante de maíz, el azúcar morena, azúcar de caña, la miel – todos son azúcar, algo que no se necesita para vivir. Hay 10 cucharaditas de azúcar en una lata de soda de 12 onzas.

Su cuerpo no necesita más azúcar, y demasiado puede causar una subida de peso y también puede contribuir a problemas de salud, como la enfermedad cardíaca y la diabetes. Los expertos de la salud recomiendan limitar a las azucares al 10 por ciento de su dieta diaria.

[SOURCE: Sugary drinks or diet drinks: what’s the best choice?” Harvard School of Public Health]

Escalando sobre el dolor de espalda Un programa de terapeutas haciendo alpinismo durante cuatro semanas se encontró ser al menos tan eficaz – y hasta superior en algunas maneras – a los tratamientos de terapia de ejercicios convencionales para tratar al dolor crónico de la parte baja de la espalda, según un estudio pequeño, controlado y aleatorio.

Una opción aun más popular para la rehabilitación, el alpinismo involucra músculos del troncal y se cree tener beneficios sicológicos para algunos pacientes.

[SOURCE: Kai Engbert and Michaela Weber, “The effects of therapeutic climbing in patients with chronic low back pain,” Spine, 2011;36(11):842-849]

La mejor manera de deshacerse de la grasa en la barriga Usted puede hacer cientos de ejercicios de abdominales cada día y sus músculos del estomago se harán fuertes. Pero no perderá su barrigona. No existe ningún ejercicio para reducir la grasa en solo una parte del cuerpo.

La mejor manera de perder la grasa abdominal es bajar de peso por reducir sus calorías y agregar ejercicio a su rutina diaria. Cuando uno baja de peso, la grasa abdominal también se le quita. La grasa más difícil de perder es la grasa subcutánea (la que se puede pellizcar) que lleva menos riesgos de salud que la grasa abdominal.

[SOURCE: “Quiz: best and worst foods for belly fat,” WebMD Quiz, April 30, 2013

La grasa abdominal no les hace bien a los huesos Levantar pesas es uno de los mejores ejercicios para forjarse huesos fuertes y para protegerse de la osteoporosis. Pero no espere que ningún peso en exceso le vaya a dar ninguna ventaja. En un estudio de 50 mujeres jóvenes sobre pesas u obesas se encontró una asociación entre la pesa en exceso, la grasa abdominal sobre todo, y una bajada de densidad ósea. Los investigadores ahora quisieran saber que si bajar de peso sea eficaz para reducir esa tendencia.

[SOURCE: Fran Lowry, “Excess premenopausal visceral fat a risk factor for osteoporosis,” Medscape Medical News, December 7, 2010 (Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) 96th Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting: Abstract SS1, 17-05, presented November 30, 2010] S C O P E 11

news briefs Employee Focus Live, learn and work at MGH&FC Patricia Tiatia-Tuli has been a medical assistant at MGH Oakland Bay Pediatrics since September 2006. “I love my job because I get to work with kids and a wonderful staff. I truly appreciate my co-workers and how we work as a team to care for the patients and guide their parents.” Patricia (nee Haddock) graduated from Shelton High School and went on to receive her Medical Assistant credentials.

bicycling, bird watching, decorating/ home renovations, and boating in the Puget Sound area.

Debbie McGinnis now Certified Diabetes Educator

Mary Jones joins Physical Therapy

Debbie McGinnis, R.N., BSN, and diabetes nurse educator at MGH&FC’s Diabetes Wellness Center, recently earned her credential as a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE). A CDE is a healthcare professional who possesses comprehensive knowledge of and experience in diabetes management, pre-diabetes, and diabetes prevention.

MGH&FC’s Physical Therapy Department hired new Physical Therapist Mary Jones in May. She earned a Master’s degree in Physical Therapy at the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks in 1996, after receiving a Bachelor of Art’s degree in Kinesiology from University of Washington, Seattle. She has worked in Alaska, Arizona, Oregon, and Washington – alternating winters in the south with summers in Alaska. She is a graduate of Shelton High School.

Debbie has been a diabetes nurse educator with MGH&FC since 2008, mainly involved in direct patient care as a diabetes instructor to outpatients and inpatients. This includes working

Employees of the Month Congratulations to MGH&FC “Employee of the Month” for June - Trevor Madison, materials; July - Kristina Grounds, R.N., medical/surgical/ pediatrics; and August - Craig Chase, maintenance.

Barbara Schmidt is new OBP clinic manager Barbara Schmidt is the new Clinic Manager for Oakland Bay Pediatrics.

She has almost twenty years’ experience in the healthcare industry in operations, clinic management, marketing, project management, and health insurance. She has worked with Group Health, KPS, Harrison HealthPartners, Pediatrics NW, and most recently –Swedish Medical Center. Her areas of experience are in family practice, pediatrics, physical/ occupational therapy, dermatology, ophthalmology, cardiology, and in vascular and cardiothoracic surgery.

Barbara is a lifelong resident of Washington. She enjoys gardening, 12 S C O P E

Classes/Support Groups “First Aid/CPR/AED” class in September The First Aid/CPR/AED class size is limited to 16 per class, and an early, non-refundable registration fee of $25 (exact cash or check) is required. At the end of the class a “course completion card” will be available. It is open to the entire community, and a Spanish interpreter can be made available on request. Comfortable clothing is recommended.

When: Thursday evening, September 12, from 5 to 9 p.m.

Where: MGH&FC Learning Center, next to McDonald’s on Olympic Highway North.

Registration: Advanced registration is required by September 10, by calling the Learning Center at (360) 427-3609.

Note: Books will be made available prior, during, and after the course and may be purchased for an additional $20.

“Living Well with Diabetes” class in September A two-day class in diabetes self-management.

When: Tuesday and Wednesday, September 17 & 18 (9 a.m. – 1 p.m.)

Where: Pershing Meeting Room at MGH Registration: Advanced registration is required by calling Sue Barwick, R.N., C.D.E., at (360) 426-1611, ext. 28941 (from Allyn (360) 275-8614, ext. 28941).

Note: Diabetes education is a covered service under most insurance plans.

one-on-one with patients to help them manage their diabetes, and making sure they understand the basics of their condition: how to perform their own blood sugar testing, manage their medications, practice good nutrition and exercise, maintain coping skills, and prevent complications. She is also active in community programs such as the MGH&FC Women’s Health Event, and as a speaker for MGH&FC Diabetes Support Groups. In addition, she has been a guest speaker for Alpine Way’s “Sweet Success” program. Debbie has received multiple MGH&FC “Service from the Heart” awards for her patient care.

Since it was first awarded in 1986 by the National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators, the CDE credential has become a standard of excellence in diabetes education. Debbie now joins the staff of diabetes educators at MGH&FC who all have this designation, giving the distinction of excellence to MGH&FC’s diabetes program.

Mtn. View Women’s Health open Wednesday evenings MGH Mountain View Women’s Health (MVWH) is now open late on Wednesday evenings until 7 p.m.

Daytime office hours are Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Fridays.

MVWH is a full-service medical clinic that provides medical treatment for women of all ages with gynecological and obstetrical needs, and is staffed by three board-certified gynecologist/ obstetricians Lystra B. Wilson-Celestine, M.D.; Nkem Nwosa, M.D.; and Alford N. Vassall, Jr., M.D. To schedule an appointment call (360) 426-0955.

Donna Berg awarded Certified Nursing Assistant of the Year

We are proud to be a tobacco-free facility.

Please – no smoking or chewing tobacco on our campus. Thank you!

MS: environmental risk factors Three major environmental risk

Donna Berg, CNA, in MGH&FC’s medical/surgical/pediatrics unit was honored by Shelton Rotary in June as a “CNA of the Year” during its annual Certified Nursing Assistants Caregiver Awards luncheon. Donna has worked at MGH&FC since July 2011. Joining Donna at the recognition was her daughter, Delia Berg (center), and her supervisor, Melissa Cuzick, R.N., MSN.

Survivorship Fair and Open House Headed by Patient Navigator Karry Trout, BA, RT(R)(M), CBPN-IC, MGH&FC will participate as a sponsor in Harmony Hill Retreat Center’s 4th Annual Survivorship Fair and Open House on Saturday, August 24, 2013. The event is free to all attendees and the keynote speaker will be Mark Nepo, author of The Book of Awakening. An author and a philosopher who has been through two different cancers, he has appeared as a guest on the Oprah Winfrey Show.

factors for multiple sclerosis have been identified: 1) history of Epstein-Barr virus infection, 2) smoking, and 3) vitamin D deficiency.

According to one recent research review, “vitamin D insufficiency is widespread in temperate countries and in patients with MS at the earliest stages of the disease.”

[SOURCE: Charles Pierrot-Deseilligny, M.D., and Jean-Claude Souberbielle, Ph.D., “Contribution of vitamin D insufficiency to the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis,” Therapeutic Advances in Neurological Disorders, 2013,6(2):81-116]

MS more common far from equator Multiple sclerosis is seen most frequently in areas far from the equator – southern Canada, northern United States, Europe, and New Zealand. Some believe that reduced sunlight and resulting vitamin D deficiencies might be risk factors.

A child moving from a high-risk to a low-risk geographical area tends to acquire the risk of the latter home unless the move occurs after puberty.

[SOURCE: Mayo Clinic Staff, “Multiple sclerosis,” MayoClinic.com, December 15, 2012] S C O P E 13

Hospital celebrates end of Construction Project

In May, MGH&FC celebrated the completion of its two-year Campus Renewal and Construction Project. Joining in the celebration and present for the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony were staff members, physicians, administrators, and Hospital Board of Commissioners.

Information Systems

Explorer’s Club

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Sara Perrott, network administrator, IT; Justin Stromberg, network administrator, IT; Angela Lewis, R.N., BSN, director, CI; Susan Powell, R.N., CI; Savanna Dominguez-Alvarez, analyst, CI; Kris Davies, quality coordinator, DS; Shayne Albaugh, analyst, DS; and Won Lee, database analyst, DS.

selected to be published with the story, which was a tremendous honor, although Gushee is modest about his accomplishments.

“I would put my staff up against any world-class staff. I know we’d come out on top. We have the technology and skills you’d find in any larger hospital,” added Hornburg. “My pride is in my staff.”

Gushee’s adventures continued in late-June when he travelled to Greenland and Iceland aboard National Geographic’s supreme ice ship, the Explorer. To view his photographic works, visit his website at www.wildimageplanet.com.

14 S C O P E

“I’m an accidental photographer,” he said. “If I capture anything good, it’s an accident.” Yet, Gushee’s large collection of scenic and wildlife photos document ten years of explorations – evidence of his skill behind the camera.

Stomach flu – stopping the spread The two major causes of viral gastroenteritis, or stomach flu, in the United States are norovirus (for adults) and rotavirus (for children). Both are highly contagious if you come into direct contact with infected persons or share food or eating utensils with them. Children generally are contagious for longer periods than adults.

Norovirus can be passed to others from the time you begin to feel ill until at least three days after recovery. Rotavirus is contagious even before symptoms appear and for about two weeks after recovery.

[SOURCE: James M. Steckelberg, M.D., “Stomach flu: how long am I contagious?” MayoClinic.com, March 6, 2012]

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• Manage Pain • Deal with Fatigue, Frustration

& Isolation • Start a Personal Exercise Routine • Handle Stress Better • Meet Personal Goals through Problem-Solving Techniques • Eat Well to Live Well • Use Medications Safely • Talk to Your Doctor About Your Health • Be a Healthy Caregiver • Make Choices About Personal Treatment Plans

Never feel

confined again...

New Open MRI Our new High Field Open MRI is now in service.

The MRI is spacious and comfortable - even for CMYK those who experience claustrophobia. Boasting an almost 360-degree opening, anyone with claustrophobia can be scanned in comfort. No longer will patients have to use the mobile MRI that was outside of the building, as this new, stateof-the-art MRI is now located inside for comfort and privacy.

With your physician’s referral, call (360) 427-9590 for an appointment.

Lifeincan be better just 6 weeks! ...

Imagine how it would feel

to take control of YOUR health! Now you can... by joining a free, six-week “Living Well” health self-management workshop. If you have an ongoing healthcare need and want solutions, not just more frustration, these workshops will help you discover new and practical ways to feel healthier, no matter what medical condition you have.

CMYKWell self-management The Living workshop was developed at Stanford University and is a proven leader around the world in self-management for persons with chronic health conditions.

Free workshop Every Tuesday 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Sept. 10 – Oct. 15 at MGH&FC Learning Center

For more information or to register, contact Melissa Cuzick, MSN, RN, at Mason General Hospital at (360) 427-3429.

Sponsored by:

Congratulations!

Joe Hoffman, M.D., Emergency Physician CMYK

CMYK

recently received the Healthcare Champion “Emergency Services Award” presented by the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce and the Thurston-Mason County Medical Society.

Dr. Hoffman, board-certified emergency physician, splits his time between working at MGH as an Emergency Physician and serving as the Mason County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Medical Program Director (MPD). He was recognized with this Healthcare Champion Award for creating a regional approach to developing standardized EMS protocols and transfer procedures for cardiac and stroke patients in Mason County. In addition, he was the first in Washington State to develop and receive approval for EMS protocols ensuring Mason County patients received the best treatment and care at the right facility. Dr. Hoffman’s commitment to building and maintaining a quality County EMS is evidenced by his ongoing review of data that ensures that the care and treatment of patients provided by his EMS staff not only meets, but exceeds, standards.

Congratulations Dr. Hoffman!

– Staff, nurses, physicians, administration & Hospital Board of Commissioners S C O P E 15

CMYK

901 Mountain View Drive Shelton, WA 98584

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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: Mason General Hospital & Family of 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. Located at: 901 Mtn. View Drive, PO Box 1668, Shelton, WA 98584-5001, (360) 4261611, from Allyn (360) 275-8614. Serving the medical needs of Mason County since 1968. Accredited by The Joint Commission.

TTY/TDD: (360) 427-9593. Translation Services Provided. Se habla español. Equal Opportunity Provider.

CMYK Administration: Eric Moll, chief executive officer; Dean Gushee, M.D., chief of staff; Scott Hilburn, commissioner/president; Don Wilson and Nancy Trucksess, commissioners.

Professional Way