Spring 2012
Information and Resources for Health and Wellness
SaintVincentHealth.com
WE HAVEN’T MISSED A BEAT Minimally invasive heart and vascular care
LOSE WEIGHT, GAIN CONFIDENCE Advanced bariatric procedures without open surgery
CHANGING PEOPLE'S LIVES Pioneering neurosurgeon Isam Khoja, MD
We’re your hospital. We’re Saint Vincent. Quality. It’s what defines Saint Vincent—and what drives our skillful network of caregivers. As the region’s only locally owned, locally governed Catholic hospital, we remain committed to elevating the standard of care within our own community. We’re achieving this goal by attracting and retaining the brightest minds in medicine. By investing in the most revolutionary, life-changing technologies. And by partnering with organizations that share our belief in keeping patient care local—and affordable. With such an unparalleled commitment to excellence, just imagine where we’ll be taking health care next.
Scott Whalen, PhD, FACHE Saint Vincent President and CEO
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Mission Statement Inspired by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Northwestern Pennsylvania, Saint Vincent Health System is a community of caregivers dedicated to bringing God’s healing love to all and committed to compassion and excellence in the delivery of a continuum of holistic care.
SAINT VINCENT HEALTH SYSTEM VITALS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2012
Board of Trustees Mike Redlawsk, Chair Mark Webb, Vice Chair Jeff Szumigale, Treasurer Sister Mary Herrmann, SSJ, Secretary Helen Baran Terrence Cavanaugh Zdzislaw Chorazy, MD Natalie Dwyer-Haller, Esq Alan Glaser, MD Bill Hilbert, Jr. R. Steven Jones Sister Phyllis McCracken, SSJ Daniel Muccio, MD Dennis Prischak Tim Shuttleworth Greg Sorce
Innovative heart care
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Bariatric specialists
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Compassionate care for women & babies
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Health Happenings
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President/CEO Scott Whalen, PhD, FACHE
Special pull-out event calendar
ON THE COVER Saint Vincent neurosurgeon Isam Khoja, MD, was the first physician to introduce artificial cervical disc replacement surgery to our community. Read the full story on page 8.
Neurological advancements
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cover story Questions or Comments
Please call the Saint Vincent Marketing/Communications Department at (814) 452-5706.
Vitals Magazine is a publication of Saint Vincent Health System
Leading orthopedic services
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We Haven’t Missed a Beat: Solving irregular heart beats without open surgery
19,286 The number of total patient admissions at Saint Vincent Fiscal Year 2011
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Finding out you have an irregular heartbeat is a daunting reality. But imagine the relief you would feel if you knew you could have a heart procedure that did not require opening your chest. Now imagine receiving such an advanced level of innovative cardiac care—right here in Erie. The Saint Vincent Heart and Vascular Center is the only hospital in the region to perform many of the most cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedures for irregular heart beat—or atrial fibrillation (AF)—available, offering patients smaller incisions, shorter hospital stays and faster recoveries.
Saint Vincent is the exclusive area provider of two minimally invasive, advanced treatment options for patients suffering from an irregular heartbeat, also known as atrial fibrillation (AF). One of the newest of these procedures is radio frequency catheter ablation. In this minimally invasive procedure, a cardiologist guides a flexible tube called a catheter into the heart and uses radio waves to produce heat that destroys the tissue causing the irregular heartbeat. Studies have shown that the use of a catheter ablation is better than drug therapy for reducing short-term and long-term recurrence of AF. Another highly effective treatment is the minimally invasive maze procedure. In this innovative new procedure, a cardiovascular surgeon makes three small incisions between the ribs on the side of chest and uses various types of energy to block the irregular signals. This approach can also eliminate the source of potential stroke-causing blood clots that are common with AF. Quality results for AF patients, without the lengthy recovery of open surgery. Only at Saint Vincent.
To consult with a Saint Vincent physician for any of these procedures, call 1-800-611-2994. To meet the Saint Vincent Heart & Vascular team, simply visit SaintVincentHealth.com/HeartTeam.
Do You Have an Irregular Heartbeat? You may have atrial fibrillation without having any symptoms at all, so it’s important to have regular check-ups. Symptoms may, however, include: • Heart palpitations • Lack of energy; feeling over-tired • Dizziness or feeling faint • Chest discomfort • Shortness of breath during normal activities or when at rest
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When Traditional Weight Loss Fails Saint Vincent now provides three minimally invasive surgical options One third. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in three American adults are obese. It is an issue that has reached epidemic proportions, putting millions at risk for heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and certain types of cancer. Many who are struggling with obesity find that traditional methods of weight loss simply do not work. For these individuals, the Saint Vincent Bariatric Center offers the following laparoscopic bariatric procedures: Gastric bypass surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that creates a small pouch to restrict food intake by making a direct connection from the stomach pouch to the small intestine. This also allows food to bypass a portion of the small intestine where calories are normally absorbed. Sleeve gastrectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that permanently removes a large portion of the stomach to limit food intake and lessen the sensation of hunger. This procedure helps patients to eat less and feel full faster. Gastric banding is a minimally invasive procedure in which an inflatable silicone device is placed around the top portion of the stomach, slowing the passage of food to the lower part of the stomach. As the upper part of the stomach registers as full, the brain receives a message that the entire stomach is full. This sensation helps the person to feel full more quickly, eat smaller portions and lose weight over time. These minimally invasive procedures provide patients with smaller incisions, shorter recovery times and less risk of infection. They are being performed by Saint Vincent’s highly experienced, board-certified bariatric surgeons, Muhammad Asad, MD, and Jawaid Kalim, MD.
To find out if you qualify for bariatric surgery, call 814-452-7800. To learn more, please visit SaintVincentHealth.com/Services/Bariatrics.
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Oh, Baby! We’ve got resources for you If you are an expectant or new parent, it’s important to know the valuable resources that are available to you at Saint Vincent. They include: Our Obstetric Medical and Nursing Team Two of the region’s most respected obstetric practices have made Saint Vincent their hospital of choice for delivering babies, thanks in part to our team of Erie’s most experienced obstetric nurses. Providing the region’s best care is our first priority, but the sparkling new, private rooms enable mother, baby and family to recover in luxury.
To find an OB/GYN, go to SaintVincentHealth.com/Babies and click on the “Find an OB/GYN” button. Our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit More doctors choose Saint Vincent as the hospital to care for premature and sick babies being transported from hospitals in neighboring communities. This is because of our unparalleled level of nursing and physician experience. Our neonatal intensive care unit was one of only six hospitals nationwide to win by popular vote a $5,000 grant for neonatal human milk support products from Medela, a company that makes products for breastfeeding.
The Saint Vincent Lactation Center This resource is invaluable to new moms who want their babies to experience the health benefits of breastfeeding. The Saint Vincent Lactation Center provides breastfeeding classes before your baby is born, consultation when you leave the hospital, a free breastfeeding support group, free baby weight checks, breastfeeding supplies and equipment—including breast pump rentals. There is also a free “Warm Line,” which new moms can call for advice on breastfeeding. Just dial 814-452-7732. You can find more information
online at SaintVincentHealth.com/Babies. Baby 101 e-Newsletter This helpful weekly e-newsletter provides vital information timed out to your baby’s week of development from conception to age three—absolutely FREE!
To sign up, go to SaintVincentHealth.com/Babies or call 814-452-5500. Beautiful Beginnings Classes We offer a series of informative classes with topics ranging from childbirth prep to child CPR (see schedule, pages 6 and 7). And be sure to check out our online
childbirth preparation class at SaintVincentHealth.com/Babies. Newborn Portraits The first days of your baby’s life are priceless. To help capture these memories, Saint Vincent offers breathtaking studio-quality portraits of your newborn while you are still in the hospital. These professional portraits of your new baby (or babies) can also include mom, dad and family members. Be sure to bring an adorable outfit for your baby’s first photo shoot!
For a tour of the beautiful Saint Vincent Mother and Baby Center, please call 814-452-5664.
1,869
The number of births in the Saint Vincent Mother/Baby Unit Fiscal Year 2011 SaintVincentHealth.com
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Piloxing Erie’s only Piloxing class, blending the power and speed of boxing with the sculpting and flexibility of Pilates When: Wednesdays, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.Â
Yoga/Pilates: Mind Body Fusion Combine the mind/body/spirit disciplines of Yoga and Pilates. When: Tuesdays, 5:20 to 5:50 p.m.
Zumba and Merengue Madness Zumba, with the faster-paced rhythm of the Merengue When: Thursdays, 4:30 to 5:40 p.m.
Zumba Burn calories to hypnotic musical rhythms and tantalizing moves. When: Mondays, 12:30 to 1 p.m.
Saint Vincent is dedicated to your good health! Please join us for this series of health and wellness classes. You can purchase a class pass for 10 classes for $50 in the Saint Vincent Inspired Gift Shop. Unless otherwise noted, classes are held in the Associate Fitness Center in the lower level of the Hardner Building, 2315 Myrtle Street. Call 814-453-5610 or e-mail arzyczycki@svhs.org for more information.
Saint Vincent Fitness and Wellness Classes
Saint Vincent
Eat Well for Life, Module I When: Mondays, July 9, 16, 23, 30; 5:30 to 7 p.m. Cost: $65 or free for Highmark members
Discover Relaxation from Within Module II When: Wednesdays, May 23, 30, and June 6, 13, 20, 27 OR August 8, 15, 22, 29; noon to 12:45 p.m. Cost: $65 or free for Highmark members
Eat Well for Life, Module II When: Tuesdays, May 1, 8, 15, 22; 6 to 7:30 p.m. Cost: $65 or free for Highmark members
Discover Relaxation from Within Module I When: July 12, 19, 26, and August 2; 6 to 7:30 p.m. Cost: $65 or free for Highmark members
Eat Well for Life, Module II When: Tuesdays, May 1, 8, 15, 22; 6 to 7:30 p.m. OR September 4, 11, 18, 25; 5:30 to 7 p.m. Cost: $65 or free for Highmark members
For registration, please e-mail arzyczycki@svhs.org. Classes are held in the lower level of the Hardner Building, 2315 Myrtle Street.
Highmark Class Series
Life without Shoulder Pain Learn about the latest orthopedic treatments and technology from an orthopedic surgeon. Call 814-866-4819 to register. When: Go to www.SaintVincentHealth.com and click on Classes and Events to check dates and times. Cost: Free!
Living without Hip and Knee Pain Learn about the latest orthopedic treatments and technology from an orthopedic surgeon. Call 814-866-4819 to register. When: May 9 at 1 p.m.; July 10 at 10 a.m.; September 11 at 10 a.m. Cost: Free!
AARP Basic Driver Safety Course When: July 31 and August 1, 5 to 9 p.m. Cost: $12 for AARP members, $14 for non-members RSVP: 814-866-4817
AARP Driver Safety Refresher Course When: May 22, 5 to 9 p.m. Participants must have attended an 8-hour safety course in the past (see below). Cost: $12 for AARP members, $14 for non-members RSVP: 814-866-4817
Especially for Seniors
Health Happenings
Pull out and post this calendar!
Working Mother and Breastfeeding When: May 24, July 26 or September 27; 7 to 9 p.m. Cost: $15
Breastfeeding for New Parents When: May 10, June 14, July 12, August 9 or September 13, 7 to 9 p.m. Cost: $15
Labor Refresher Class When: June 23, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost: $20 per couple
Weekday Prep for Labor When: May 1, 8, 15 OR June 4, 11, 18 OR July 10, 17, 24 OR August 6, 13, 20 OR September 4, 11, 18; 6:30 to 9 p.m. Cost: $30 per couple
Saturday Prep for Labor When: May 5, 12 OR June 2, 9 OR July 7, 14 OR August 4, 11 OR September 8, 15, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost: $30 per couple
Online e-Learning Childbirth Education When: Anytime! Cost: $35 To learn more, go to SaintVincentHealth.com/Babies.
Unless otherwise noted, all classes are held at the Saint Vincent Women’s Center, 311 West 24 Street. Call 814-452-5664 to register or e-mail sbuffalari@ svhs.org. These classes may be reimbursable so be sure to check with your health insurance provider.
Beautiful Beginnings Classes For Expectant and New Parents
Mothers and Daughters: On Growing Up (For girls 9-12 and their moms) May 19, 9 a.m. to noon
So you’re Going to Be a Grandparent! When: July 23, 7 to 9 p.m. Cost: $10 per person; $15 per grandparent couple
CPR for Infants, Children and Adults When: June 9; 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost: $40 per person
Dads Make a Difference When: June 25, 7 to 9 p.m. Cost: $10 per dad
Mommy and Me Playgroup When: May 1 and 15; 10 to 11 a.m. Cost: Free!
Sibling Preparation Class When: June 5 or August 7; 6:30 to 8 p.m. Cost: $10 for one child; $5 for each additional child
Newborn Care When: May 3, June 7, July 5, August 2 or September 6, 6:30 to 9 p.m. Cost: $15
Breastfeeding Early Success Small group consultations for new moms and babies in the first two weeks after birth. Call 814-452-7732 to sign up. When: Fridays, from 1 to 3 p.m. Cost: Free!
Breastfeeding Support Group When: April 18, May 16, June 20, July 18, August 15, September 19, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Cost: Free!
FREE Saint Vincent Cardiac Support When: May 3 and August 2, Noon Where: Saint Vincent McGarvey Learning Center RSVP: 814-452-7273
WHEN: Third Wednesday of every month, 5:30 p.m. WHERE: Regional Cancer Center, 2500 West 12 Street RSVP: 814-836-2660
Breast Cancer Support Group
FREE
WHEN: Fourth Tuesday of every month, 4 p.m. WHERE: Regional Cancer Center, 2500 West 12 Street RSVP: 814-836-2660
Thriver’s Group for Advanced Cancer Patients
FREE
WHEN: July 16, 2 to 4 p.m. WHERE: Saint Vincent Women’s Center Classroom, 311 West 24 Street, Erie RSVP: 800-227-2345
Look Good, Feel Better for Female Cancer Patients
FREE
Community Cancer Learning and Support
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Why we remain the neurosurgical leader in our region nside the bustling Saint Vincent Health Center lobby, neurosurgeon Isam Khoja, MD, takes a few moments between procedures to discuss the hospital’s latest advancements in neurosurgical care. The first physician to introduce artificial cervical disc replacement surgery to our community, Dr. Khoja is offering new hope to those suffering from chronic pain associated with degenerative disc disease in the neck. During the procedure, Dr. Khoja removes the diseased or damaged disc and attaches a surgical implant between the adjoining vertebrae. He is currently the only physician in our region who performs this innovative, life-changing surgery, which has proven to be even more effective than traditional cervical spinal fusion. In fact, 24 months after participating in the largest completed clinical trial to date involving the cervical spine, patients in the study showed superior overall success and superior neurological success incorporating sensory, motor and reflex functions. “Although fusion is a successful treatment option, it restricts normal cervical motion and forces more load onto other discs—which could potentially cause complications at adjacent levels of the spine,” Dr. Khoja says. “Artificial cervical disc replacement surgery virtually eliminates this damaging domino effect.” According to Dr. Khoja, the procedure is designed to preserve mobility and is an effective and safe treatment for many patients.
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Despite such positive outcomes, spinal fusion remains the standard of care for patients suffering from degenerative disc disease, and is still indicated for certain patients. Dr. Khoja says this is because of two determining factors: clinical qualification and insurance provider approval. Approximately 20 percent of the patients Dr. Khoja consults with meet the stringent criteria necessary to undergo artificial cervical disc replacement surgery. “Patient selection is key,” he explains. “You must have single level degenerative disc disease with no facet joint problems or instability in order to qualify.” Prospective candidates must undergo a comprehensive clinical examination—which may include an MRI or CT scan—and preservative treatment such as physical therapy for a period of six weeks up to three months, depending upon the severity and progression of the disease. Patients are then required to file for approval from their insurance provider prior to scheduling surgery.
Neurosurgeon Isam Khoja, MD, is finding better ways to treat patients with degenerative disc disease in the neck.
Once deemed eligible, patients who undergo the procedure typically experience immediate pain relief with quicker recovery times (two weeks or less as opposed to six weeks with spinal fusion), shorter hospital stays and an opportunity to maintain normal motion in their necks following surgery.
Saint Vincent Telemedicine Network links Stroke care in the Erie region has now advanced to a higher level through a unique telemedicine program and collaboration between Saint Vincent Health Center and Cleveland Clinic, one of the nation’s top neurological programs. For patients in northwestern Pennsylvania and the surrounding region, this means a consistent, timely assessment of stroke symptoms 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Saint Vincent emergency physicians now have access to the Cleveland Clinic Telestroke Network for the diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients through new video-conferencing telemedicine equipment. This equipment is located in the Saint Vincent Emergency Department and provides a dedicated link to Cleveland Clinic’s team of neurological specialists. “The big change is that we now have access to critical thinking and aggressive measures to see if we can improve on treating a disease that historically has poor outcomes,” said Saint Vincent neurointerventionalist Charles Romero, MD. “Before, we would consult on the telephone with Cleveland Clinic physicians. 10
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cover story According to Dr. Khoja, most of his patients are up and walking right after surgery, and some are even discharged from the hospital the very same day. “Providing a better option, especially for younger patients, is critical,” says Dr. Khoja. “You want to ensure people are able to keep the range of motion that God created for them.” Always humble, Dr. Khoja is quick to recognize Saint Vincent’s continual efforts to bring the best surgeons—and most innovative technology—to our community. “Going to a bigger, out-of-town institution doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get the best treatment,” Dr. Khoja says. “Having the procedure done here means there’s less travel, less expense—all with a level of care that’s as good or better than the other hospitals in our region.” When asked what he’d like to provide most for his patients, Dr. Khoja responds candidly: “A normal life.”
Made of stainless steel, the PRESTIGE® Cervical Disc has two articulating components (a ball on top and a trough on the bottom) and is available in a variety of sizes that allow surgeons to closely match a patient's anatomy.
18,675 with Cleveland Clinic Now, telemedicine allows them to see the patient with their own eyes. Seeing something and having it described to you are very different.” Saint Vincent’s participation in the Telestroke Network means that the specialists at Cleveland Clinic will be included in the evaluation, have access to patients’ brain scans and then discuss the best treatment options with the specialists at Saint Vincent. This means faster treatment and recovery for many stroke patients
in this region. Most importantly it also means that patients in this region will have access to this level of care without leaving Saint Vincent and without the need to waste precious time traveling out of town. “We have assembled a top notch team of neuroscience experts right here at Saint Vincent,” said Scott Whalen, PhD, FACHE, Saint Vincent President and CEO. “Our neurologists, neurosurgeons, neurointerventionalist and emergency department physicians and stroke alert team are all involved
The number of surgical procedures performed by Saint Vincent surgeons. Fiscal Year 2011
in ensuring that patients coming to Saint Vincent receive the best possible care as soon as possible. By adding the Cleveland Clinic to our team, Saint Vincent has raised the bar for stroke care.” Saint Vincent’s participation in the Telestroke Network marks the first clinical collaboration between Saint Vincent and Cleveland Clinic since announcing in August 2011 their intent to form clinical collaborations between cardiac and neurological programs. SaintVincentHealth.com
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From “Humpty Dumpty” to Dancing Queen Erie woman regains quality of life through multiple surgeries or Kathy Henninger, it’s all about the dancing shoes. As she recovers from two years of devastating illness and a series of surgeries, she can't wait to use the shiny new tap shoes waiting for her at the foot of her bed. The shoes are particularly symbolic to her, considering that several years ago, she thought she had lost her mobility forever. Henninger was suffering from a condition which was causing numerous systemic problems, including a series of spontaneous bone fractures. In 2010, when excruciating hip pain landed her in the Saint Vincent Emergency Department, she met Saint Vincent orthopedic surgeon Robert Lupo, MD. Shortly after, Lupo performed hip replacement on Henninger at Saint Vincent, utilizing a special ceramic joint that is designed for younger patients because it lasts longer. “Hip replacements fail when friction at the artificial joint interface causes the implant to loosen,” said Lupo. “Ceramics, because of their ultra-smooth surface, are able to substantially reduce wear and increase the longevity of the replacement. It makes it the ideal for use in younger patients, who need their replacement to last longer.” 12
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In the months that followed, Dr. Lupo also performed shoulder replacement and referred her to his colleague, Mark Bloomstine, MD, for repair of a snapped ligament and fusing of a fractured big toe. In the coming months, Lupo will perform another surgery on Henninger’s wrist for carpal tunnel syndrome. “I was Humpty Dumpty. I was falling apart and Dr. Lupo literally put me back together again,” Henninger said. “I cannot say enough good things about him. The care and attention given to me by the entire practice and the staff there was incredible. Also, I can't fail to mention the spectacular nursing staff on the orthopedic floor at Saint Vincent and the staff at the Surgery Center. They all helped make this difficult journey a little less traumatic." Meanwhile, Henninger is waiting somewhat impatiently for her foot to heal. “Before all this started, I was a very active person,” Henninger said. “Over the past few years, I was faced with the fear of not being able to maneuver as well as I could, and when the gift of mobility was given back to me, I went out and bought myself a pair of tap shoes. I am ready to dance!”
Need an orthopedic surgeon? Call Saint Vincent Ask-a-Nurse at 814-452-5500.
Shown are the custom cutting blocks, which snap onto the bone ends to provide surgeons customized cutting guides for reshaping bones to receive implants.
Patient-specific Instrumentation Customizes Knee Replacement Traditional knee replacement has evolved into a highly successful procedure that eliminates arthritis pain and restores function and alignment. Saint Vincent orthopedic surgeon David German, MD, has taken that procedure a step further by implementing a new technology utilizing customized patient-specific instrumentation. Using this technology, patients have an MRI prior to surgery, which provides a 3-dimensional image of the end of the femur and top of the tibia—the areas where the knee replacement hardware will eventually be placed. With data from the MRI and x-rays, advanced computer imaging software is used to create patient-specific cutting guides. Custom-made for each patient, these cutting guide instruments fit securely on the end of the bone and give the surgeon a precision guide for shaping the bone to fit the knee replacement implant. In traditional knee replacement, many decisions about how the knee replacement will be aligned David German, MD, Saint Vincent and what size will be needed are generally made during the surgery. The new technology provides orthopedic surgeon the surgeon with detailed information and tools beforehand so that many decisions can be made pre-operatively. This can help reduce the number of steps that need to be taken during surgery by up to 22 steps. Alignment rods, traditionally placed in the canals of the femur and often the tibia during surgery, are not required, potentially decreasing the patient’s time under anesthesia and potentially reducing blood loss. “Custom cutting guide technology allows me to essentially do a ‘virtual surgery’ on the computer prior to ever setting foot into an operating room,” said Dr. German. “It offers in-depth insight into the anatomy of the patient’s knee and this can provide efficiencies in the operating room. I have been extremely pleased with how it impacts the sizing, alignment, function and ultimate results. Patients have done very well.”
To learn more about cutting block technology or make an appointment, call 814-454-2401 or visit SaintVincentHealth.com. SaintVincentHealth.com
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Saint Vincent Health Center 232 West 25 Street Erie PA 16544
Highmark Recognizes Saint Vincent for Quality
77,833
The number of total Saint Vincent emergency department visits Fiscal Year 2011
When a hospital is recognized by a health insurance company for excellence in the way it provides service, it’s a big deal. That’s why we are proud to announce that Saint Vincent was recently the recipient of two important quality awards from Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield. Saint Vincent Health Center has been named a Blue Distinction Center for Spine Surgery ® by Highmark for demonstrating better overall quality of care and patient results in spine surgery. The Health Center also earned a 2011 Readmission Indicator Award as a result of its new Transition of Care program. Through this program, a transition of care coordinator works with patients, primary care physicians and home caretakers on discharge instructions and follow-up care to accomplish better outcomes and reduce the number of patients who need to be readmitted to the hospital. These two honors follow earlier Blue Distinction Center recognition honors presented to Saint Vincent for Knee and Hip Replacement and Cardiac Care.