2013 Winter HealthQuest magazine

HealthQuest Winter 2013

A publication of

Skagit Regional Health

Healthy Heart Tips and treatment

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National Accreditation Quality cancer care 10

Ryan Koonce md Orthopedic surgeon helps patients find ‘enjoyment in life’

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Festival of Trees supports cardiac care

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10th Anniversary

Welcome to

2013!

Save the Date

www.granaio.com

We know that this will be a year of great change and exciting growth as Skagit Regional Health renews our commitment to improve access to quality health care in our region.

A benefit dinner for the Children’s Therapy Program at Skagit Valley Hospital Monday, February 25, 2013, 6 p.m.

Il Granaio Restaurant 100 E. Montgomery Street Mount Vernon $100 per person.

Six-course Italian dinner and wine

For reservations contact Wendy Ragusa at the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation: 360-814-5747

Sponsorsed by:

Il2Granaio & health Skagit regional

At Skagit Regional Health, we care deeply about the health and wellness of the communities we serve. Our goal as a health care leader is to ensure access to quality primary and specialty providers and services.

Having contact with a primary care provider is the first step to establishing a pattern of prevention and wellness for individuals, families and our community.

As our population grows and ages, we know we have a need to add more primary care providers and we are working hard to do so.

We are actively recruiting doctors, nurse practitioners and physician assistants, to fill the gap of 22 additional Family Medicine and Internal Medicine providers we need by 2016.

We are also “raising our own” as a teaching hospital with Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences and are training residents in Family Medicine and Internal Medicine. These residents have their medical degrees and are advancing their knowledge, in part by seeing patients, which expands the number of people we serve.

We also hope the majority of these residents choose to be doctors here long-term, as statistics show that a strong percentage of residents stay and work in the area where they complete their training.

As we add providers, we also need to add space and grow. We will break ground this spring on a new outpatient clinic – Skagit Regional Clinics – Riverbend – located on Freeway Drive in Mount Vernon. This facility will provide a convenient location for patients to access services and adds to our geographic presence with clinics across Skagit, north Snohomish and Island counties. We are also expanding Skagit Regional Clinics – Camano Island, which is the only health care facility on the island.

Engaging leaders in our medical community is essential as we seek new ways to work with patients and focus on community health and wellness.

Our new Chief Medical Officer Connie Davis, MD is working on projects to connect providers and link programs across the continuum of care, inside and outside of Skagit Valley Hospital and Skagit Regional Clinics. This broader approach to health care holds great promise to improving community health while reducing costs.

I look forward to having the opportunity to discuss the future of health care with our community in the coming weeks and months.

Wishing you and yours a happy and healthy new year.

Gregg Agustín Davidson, FACHE Chief Executive Officer

wINTER 2013 / Volume 10 / Issue 1

HealthQuest HealthQuest is published three times a year by Skagit Regional Health and the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation.

WHERE TO FIND US In Person: Main entrance located on Hospital Parkway in Mount Vernon.

By Mail: P.O. Box 1376 Mount Vernon, WA 98273 Phone: 360-424-4111 Fax: 360-814-2416

Winter 4

Total Joints

Orthopedic surgeons earn high marks for replacement surgery

Healthy Heart

On the Web: www.skagitregionalhealth.org

Tips and treatment

Physician Referral Line: 360-848-5555 or 360-629-5850

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SKAGIT REGIONAL CLINICS Anacortes: 360-293-0308 Anacortes Urology: 360-293-2173 Camano Island: 360-387-5398 Cardiology: 360-336-9757 Mount Vernon: 360-428-2500 Mount Vernon Urology: 360-424-7991 Oak Harbor: 360-814-6200 Sedro-Woolley: 360-856-4222 Stanwood: 360-629-1600

National Accreditation Quality cancer care

Seeking a Partner

SKAGIT VALLEY HOSPITAL REGIONAL CANCER CARE CENTER In Person: 307 South 13th St., Ste. 100 Mount Vernon, WA

20 Festival

of

trees

The Breast Institute 360-814-8148 SKAGIT VALLEY KIDNEY CENTER AND WOUND HEALING CENTER 208 Hospital Parkway Mount Vernon, WA Kidney: 360-814-8260 Wound: 360-814-2600 For additional copies or more information, contact Outreach and Media Coordinator Linda Wright at 360-814-2325 or go to our Web site at www.skagitvalleyhospital.org.

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A message to the community

Cascade Skagit Health Alliance Arlington: 360-618-5000

By Mail: P.O. Box 1376 Mount Vernon, WA 98273 Phone: 360-814-2146 Fax: 360-814-2445

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Festival of Trees supports cardiac care; Community groups raise funds in creative colorful ways HealthQuest Classes

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HealthQuest Classes

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Skagit Regional Clinics

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HealthQuest Class

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Stanwood and Camano Island Mount Vernon

COVER PHOTO Skagit Regional Clinics’ orthopedic surgeon Ryan Koonce, MD performs joint replacement surgery at Skagit Valley Hospital.

Services

Registration

Photo by Linda Wright HealthQuest Winter 2013

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(Right) Orthopedic surgeon Ryan Koonce, MD examines joint replacement patient Jacquelyn Koeppen as a follow up to her shoulder replacement surgery.

HappyPatients High ratings for total joint

Patients experiencing pain relief and a return to activity as a result of a total joint replacement are some of the happiest people encountered by local orthopedic surgeons.

“It’s awesome,” Dr. Jefferson Cartwright with Advanced Orthopaedic Institute said of his patients. “These people literally wake up from their surgery and that pain is gone.”

Dr. Ken Oates with Northwest Orthopedic Surgeons agrees.

“It’s nice to see people who have been in a lot of pain who get relief and regain mobility,” Dr. Oates said. “My total joint patients are the happiest. It’s wonderful.”

Return to activity is a big factor for total joint patients, who may have been forced to give up a favorite pastime such as hiking, skiing or golf.

“The biggest benefit is that having the surgery allows them to remain active,” said Dr. Ryan Koonce of Skagit Regional Clinics – Orthopedics.

“They find more enjoyment in life.”

Nearly 15 orthopedic surgeons perform procedures in Skagit Valley Hospital’s six operating

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rooms, performing 365 total joint replacements in 2011.

Dr. Stacia Smith of Northwest Orthopedic Surgeons focuses her practice on knee and hip replacement surgeries and notes Skagit Valley Hospital has a long history and high quality scores for total joint arthroplasty.

“Thousands of total joint surgeries have been performed at Skagit,” Dr. Smith said. “It is a great team. A great operating room staff, nurses on the ward who are really dedicated and everyone is working hard to make sure all of the quality measures are met and patients do well.”

Skagit Valley Hospital is rated among the top 100 Best Hospitals and top 5 percent in the nation for joint replacement and the top five in Washington for overall orthopedic services and joint replacement

by HealthGrades, the nation’s leading healthcare ratings firm.

“The decision to go ahead with a total joint isn’t made by the physician,” Dr. Oates said. “The decision is made by the patient based on how much the joint hurts and how much it impacts a patient’s life.”

Weight loss, fitness, padded footwear, anti-inflammatory medications and injections, may help prevent or postpone surgery.

“I always talk to people about the sheer physics of it. This is as much mechanical, as it is biological. The more load on a joint, the more you’re going to wear it out,” Dr. Cartwright said.

Careful pre-operative preparation using sophisticated diagnostic imaging, including MRI, helps Dr. Smith plan the surgery specific to each patient and to select the prosthesis that best suits the patient’s anatomy.

“We continue to improve our quality and maintain this distinction,” Dr. Cartwright said. “It’s pretty amazing.”

“Your goal is to get everybody back to normal life and normal activity with no pain,” Dr. Smith said. “I try to pick prostheses and surgeries that are as close to anatomy as possible. We are looking to make the total joint last as long as possible, and that’s, hopefully, 20 years.”

The decision to proceed with having surgery to replace a knee, hip or shoulder is often made after other more conservative approaches have not worked, and the best option is surgery.

Osteoarthritis, inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis, and prior trauma or injuries are the most common problems that can lead to replacement of the joint surfaces.

HealthGradeshonors

Three years in a row!

Two years in a row!

2013 Five-star service!

• Skagit Valley Hospital receives HealthGrades Joint Replacement Excellence Award™

• Skagit Valley Hospital ranked as one of HealthGrades America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Joint Replacement™

• Overall Orthopedic Services

• Ranked among the top five in Washington for overall orthopedic services and joint replacement

• Ranked among the top 5% in the nation for Joint Replacement

• Joint Replacement

Patients • Spine Surgery

• Total Knee Replacement • Total Hip Replacement

replacement “Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis,” said Dr. Koonce. “It affects women more than men, but affects people from all walks of life.”

Patients stay an average of three days in the hospital following a

knee or hip surgery and will spend three to six months to reach full recovery. Shoulder surgery requires an overnight stay in the hospital and a one-year recovery period to gain full range of motion and strength.

Before surgery, patients may attend Skagit Valley Hospital’s Total Joint Replacement Class (see page 31) and are provided with a post-op plan that will get them up and moving quickly, which is key to recovery.

Patient finds relief following joint replacement surgery Jacquelyn Koeppen found that she couldn’t perform regular tasks with her right arm. Being right handed, the retired Skagit Valley Hospital nurse sought the advice of her primary care physician, Dr. Mary Ramsbottom.

“Dr. Ramsbottom suggested that I make an appointment with orthopedic surgeon Dr. Ryan Koonce,” Koeppen recalled. “I went to Dr. Koonce for a second opinion after having an acromioplasty done where they shave the bone. It didn’t relieve my pain and I didn’t get the results that I wanted.”

Dr. Koonce, whom Koeppen describes as kind and professional with a good sense of humor, first tried an injection to see if her shoulder pain could be relieved without surgery.

“I found that the injection didn’t relieve my pain,” Koeppen said. “At that point, my decision was either to put up with the pain or have surgery.”

Dr. Koonce, an orthopedic surgeon with Skagit Regional Clinics – Mount Vernon, noted that many of his patients find more enjoyment in life following joint replacement surgery.

It often leads to a decrease in pain and an increase in mobility, he said.

Koeppen decided to move forward with the procedure and had her shoulder surgery in September 2012 at Skagit Valley Hospital. Koeppen praises the staff for providing outstanding care.

“The care I had was excellent,” she said, noting she felt as though the nurses really listened to her while she was recovering in the hospital and she was pleased with the professionalism and compassion shown by Dr. Koonce.

“He talks to me like I have the knowledge to understand what he is saying,” said the retired nurse.

“Dr. Koonce even called me at home after the surgery to see how I was doing. I was impressed!”

Though full recovery will take three to six months, Koeppen has already noticed a remarkable difference just six weeks after her surgery.

“I have gone through my recovery so far pain free,” she said. “I can do things that I couldn’t do before like reach across my body or over my head. The pain is gone.”

Her children have seen a big change in the weeks since the surgery. “My kids noticed that I was hunching over with my right shoulder and I would grimace in pain. I didn’t know I was doing that, but they did. It was a complete change after the surgery,” she said.

When asked if she would have the surgery again, Koeppen replied, “In a flash! I would have, and should have, done it sooner.”

HealthQuest Winter 2013

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healthyheart Have a

From preventive screenings to the latest in interventional procedures, Skagit Valley Hospital offers comprehensive heart and vascular care. The staff and team of cardiologists, surgeons and radiologists offer the latest diagnostic and treatment options for treating heart disease and vascular conditions.

“We have a comprehensive program, a full complement of excellent providers and we are expanding our services,” said Interventional Cardiologist Sanjeev Vaderah, MD, with Skagit Regional Clinics – Cardiology. “We are always adding newer therapies and services for our patients.”

Dr. Vaderah notes a variety of new services and advancements, including new techniques for clot removal.

Additional services for patients with varicose veins, some performed on an outpatient basis, are also available.

Physicians also note the 2012 start of the Congestive Heart Failure Clinic

at Skagit Valley Hospital to enhance education and follow up with patients to improve patient management of their illness and potentially prevent hospitalization.

Dr. Vaderah is proud to note that the team has an outstanding track record for emergent care to save people’s lives in a heart attack, with a “door to balloon” time of 49 minutes which is less than the national average and well below the goal of 90 minutes. That measurement records how long it takes for a patient to enter the hospital, be taken to the cardiac catheterization lab and have a procedure to reopen a clogged artery.

Coronary Interventional Procedures

by HealthGrades, the leading national ratings firm.

While life-saving procedures are a part of the program, prevention and lifestyle change are a major part of cardiology practice as well, said Robert Stewart, MD, Cardiologist, with Skagit Regional Clinics – Cardiology.

“A large part of heart disease can be prevented,” Dr. Stewart said.

“Exercise, diet, weight control, cholesterol and blood pressure, these remain the keystones to the preventive piece. Patients need to feel they are in control and have some control of their destiny.”

Dr. Stewart acknowledges that these changes can be difficult and encourages his patients to keep at it.

“Our time, it’s very good,” he said.

Skagit Valley Hospital received the 2012 Coronary Intervention Excellence Award and was ranked in the top 10 percent in the nation for

“It’s easy to tell somebody to lose weight,” he said. “It’s not easy to lose weight, but it’s still the right thing to do and what they need to do.”

K now your nu m bers February is Heart Month and the American Heart Association recommends that you know your numbers:

• Blood sugar • Blood pressure • Cholesterol • Body weight Skagit Regional Health’s weekly heart and vascular screening will help you learn more about your numbers.

See page 32 to get the details.

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Skagit Regional Clinics -- Cardiology Mount Vernon, Anacortes, Sedro-Woolley and Arlington • Oscar Briseno, MD • Jeffrey Feld, MD • Elizabeth Gauer, MD • Ramy Hanna, MD • Duncan Landreth, MD • Kamol Lohavanichbutr, MD • Vidhu Paliwal, MD • Yelena Rosenberg, MD • Robert Stewart, MD • Sanjeev Vaderah, MD Peace Arch Cardiology • Rajesh Bhola, MD

Interventional cardiologist joins Skagit Regional Clinics Dr. Elizabeth Gauer spent countless hours in the hospital while her mother was battling leukemia.

During that time, Dr. Gauer realized that she was drawn to the medical field and soon applied to Tufts University School of Medicine.

Though she didn’t know which specialty she would eventually pursue, she became involved in a group researching molecular cardiology early in her training.

abnormal EKG; an interventional cardiologist opens up the blocked artery. We place a small wire into the blocked vessel and then use a balloon to open the vessel up,” she said. “In the less extreme cases, someone presents with symptoms of angina and may have a partially blocked artery. We also take them to the cath lab to open up those arteries.”

“This was the first sign I liked cardiology,” she said.

Dr. Gauer noted that she also had an interest in hemodynamics, or the study of blood flow and circulation.

Now she is certain she made the right choice. “I love the complexity that cardiology offers,” she said.

Dr. Gauer is grateful for the opportunity to have a positive impact on the lives of hundreds of patients.

“There is no better feeling than to take a patient who is doing poorly to the cath lab, treat them, and hours later see them in their room drinking coffee and talking to their family members. It’s very gratifying,” she said.

Dr. Gauer completed a cardiology fellowship at the University of Washington Medical Center. During her fellowship, she spent the first month in the cath lab where cardiac catheterization procedures are performed. She knew immediately that interventional cardiology was the right subspecialty to pursue.

Dr. Gauer joined Skagit Regional Clinics in December 2012, returning to the clinic where she “moonlighted” for about 10 days in 2010. “I really enjoy the Skagit Valley as it is a beautiful area, and I really enjoyed the patients that I met during my brief period working at the hospital,” she said.

Skagit Valley Hospital is the only facility in Skagit County with cardiac catheterization labs and was rated in the top 10 percent in the country in 2012 for coronary interventions

by HealthGrades, the national rating firm.

Dr. Gauer said she looks forward to working closely with area specialists to treat patients.

Dr. Gauer completed an interventional cardiology fellowship at the Lahey Clinic, a teaching hospital of Tufts University School of Medicine in Burlington, MA. As an interventional cardiologist, she treats patients facing serious health issues. “In the extreme case, someone has a big heart attack and

“I enjoy working as a team with other specialists, particularly on cases that involve peripheral vascular disease or wound care,” she said.

Prior to joining Skagit Regional Clinics she had the chance to work in a wound clinic. “With this opportunity I have come to appreciate the benefits of working with other doctors from many specialties (primary care, cardiologists, vascular specialists, surgeons, infectious disease specialists and others) to

achieve a common goal,” Dr. Gauer said. “It is my goal as a cardiologist to use my skills and continue to work with other specialists to achieve the optimal care for my patients.”

In her personal time, Dr. Gauer enjoys traveling, hiking, fishing and spending time with her family.

New facilities for cardiac patients The Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation is raising $350,000 to create a new Cardiac Care Special Observation Unit at Skagit Valley Hospital. The remodel of space located adjacent to the Cardiac Procedures Suites, also known as cardiac catheterization labs, will provide privacy for patients and families along with expanded space and enhanced technology. The Cardiac Care Special Observation Unit is often where patients spend time before and after a cardiac procedure. For more information about the Foundation’s fund-raising efforts, see page 20.

The Heart of a Woman

Cardiologists Yelena Rosenberg, MD and Elizabeth Gauer, MD, both with Skagit Regional Clinics – Cardiology, will address the unique heart disease risks and symptoms faced by women at the February 13 Women’s Health Luncheon at McIntyre Hall in Mount Vernon. See page 29 for registration information.

HealthQuest Winter 2013

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what is

an d why is it

important?

by Elizabeth Gauer, MD Interventional Cardiologist with Skagit Regional Clinics-Cardiology

We’ve all heard the statistic that cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of Americans. But cardiovascular disease is more than just heart disease. It can affect other parts of your body including your legs, arms and feet. When arteries become narrowed or blocked in your extremities due to fatty deposits called plaque, it is called Peripheral Artery Disease or PAD. It is estimated that as many as eight million Americans, or 12 percent of the adult population, may suffer from PAD. That figure rises to 20 percent of those over age 70.

If PAD is left untreated it can make it difficult to carry out and enjoy daily activities. But even more important, it can put your life at risk.

According to the American Heart Association, people with PAD are four to five times more at risk for heart attacks and strokes. That’s because atherosclerosis affects the entire cardiovascular system.

If you have plaque in the arteries in one part of your body, for example, your legs, you probably have it in

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other organs such as your heart. So it’s very important to identify the symptoms and treat cardiovascular disease in all its forms as early as possible. This may reduce your risk of a heart attack, stroke, limb amputation, or kidney failure down the road.

Symptoms that can indicate PAD include pain, cramping, weakness, numbness and tiredness in the legs. Those symptoms worsen with walking and exercise and are relieved by rest. However, 40 percent of those with PAD will not suffer from leg pain or discomfort, making it more difficult to detect.

Skagit Regional Health offers a Heart and Vascular screening on Wednesday mornings to help detect heart and vascular disease. The screening includes a full lipid profile and a variety of other screenings including a simple blood pressure test called an ankle-brachial index or ABI. The ABI can help detect blockages in the leg that can be a symptom of cardiovascular disease. The screening is only $35. For more information see page 32.

Did you know?

Skagit Valley Hospital consistently ranks in the top five among the state’s 48 largest hospitals for quality. Skagit Valley Hospital recently ranked number one in the state for scores on core measures.

Skagit Valley Hospital ranked number 3 in the state, among the state’s largest hospitals, in total performance score for Value Based Purchasing (VBP). VBP is Medicare’s new method for paying hospitals based on quality and this score shows Skagit’s commitment to excellence in patient care.

Skagit Valley Hospital is one of just two independent hospitals on the list of top 25 performing hospitals in Western Washington.

Two Skagit Regional Health leaders were recently selected to serve statewide healthcare organizations. Chief Executive Officer Gregg Davidson was elected to serve as an American Hospital Association Delegate representing the Washington State Hospital Association (WSHA) and Mike Liepman, Chief Operating Officer, is treasurer of the Northwest Hospital Council and now a member of the WSHA board and the association’s Public Policy Committee.

E-news:

Just for you

Skagit Regional Health offers a new, quarterly e-newsletter with information on health, wellness and programs available to you right here, close to home. Sign up to receive our newsletter in your “in box” by going to www. skagitregionalhealth.org and clicking on the E-news button.

Women

Excellence in care for Women benefit from a wide variety of surgical options to help resolve problems related to heavy periods, fibroids and lack of pelvic support as a result of childbirth and aging.

For the second year in a row, Skagit Valley Hospital is among the top 10 percent in the nation for gynecologic surgery and the recipient of the Gynecological Surgery Excellence Award from HealthGrades, the leading provider of information to help consumers make an informed decision about a physician or hospital.

Dr. Sara Rowland, OB/GYN of Mount Vernon Women’s Clinic said of the high ratings: “It is rewarding to work at a hospital that has achieved such a high rating because this reflects the spectrum of care provided and our desire to provide excellent care to each patient.

Gynecologic surgery is an exciting and dynamic field because of the ability we have to impact quality of life for women: relieving pain, reducing bleeding, decreasing cancer risk, treating urinary incontinence, improving pelvic support, and more.”

Dr. Rowland also noted the variety of options for women today.

“No woman starts out desiring surgery, but the good news is, there

are many treatment options now available for treating a variety of conditions, many of which involve shorter hospital stays and smaller incisions,” she said. “While not every patient is a candidate for every procedure, patients can work with a gynecologist to develop a treatment plan that best meets their goals.”

Hysterectomy is among the most common gynecologic surgeries and can be performed vaginally, abdominally, or laparoscopically, depending on the patient and physician.

Dr. Robert Rosenfeld, OB/ GYN with Skagit Regional Clinics – Women’s Health, is a proponent of vaginal hysterectomy as the “first and best minimally invasive procedure.”

Many pelvic support surgeries may also be performed vaginally. These procedures are meant to support the bladder, if a woman is suffering from leakage, or reattachment of pelvic structures that can lose form after childbirth, he said. At times mesh will be used if the damage to the patient’s own tissues is such that it would not provide adequate support. This is done after counseling the patient.

“All of these issues occur as women age and they all start with childbirth, which disrupts these fibers of support,” Dr. Rosenfeld said. “Obesity and gravity are your enemy. Anything that causes more bearing down on these structures increases the risk of problems occurring and failure after repairs. Living a healthy lifestyle makes a difference.”

Dr. Rosenfeld said he finds women are relieved when he asks them if they have issues with leakage or discomfort as it opens the door to discussing options for remedies.

“Once they are given permission, they are eager to talk about these issues. These things need to be dealt with if they are bothering her,” he said. “Some of the best moments of my day are just sitting in the room and talking with my patients.”

Satisfaction as a provider comes with helping patients reach goals, Dr. Rowland said.

“As technology and research in the field of gynecology advance, it is exciting to learn to do new things, or adapt a technique we already use to solve a different problem,” she said.

“Assisting our patients in finding a solution that improves their life is our goal, and what ultimately makes our work satisfying.”

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Regional Cancer Care Center receives accreditation The Skagit Valley Hospital Regional Cancer Care Center once again earned three-year accreditation with commendation from the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons.

This rigorous process involves an on-site evaluation by a physician surveyor who reviews clinical services, research, cancer committee leadership, cancer data management, community outreach and quality improvement.

“Seeking to obtain accreditation through the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer assures the community that the level of cancer care offered here meets or surpasses current standards of therapy,” said Radiation Oncologist David Kantorowitz, MD, PhD. “The

care we deliver to our patients at the Regional Cancer Care Center is truly leading edge. To that end, we remain committed as a partner institution, along with UW Medicine, Seattle Children’s and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center as part of the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, working together to provide area patients with the best, integrated, holistic oncology care available.”

Accreditation is a reflection of the comprehensive, state-of-the-art services and equipment offered in the community by the skilled, multidisciplinary team at the Regional Cancer Care Center.

“Accreditation is truly a stamp of approval,” said Director of Oncology Barbara Jensen, RN, BSN. “It demonstrates our level of

dedication to the delivery of stateof-the-art oncology therapies in our community, and our commitment to assure our patients have access to clinical trials and sub-specialty referrals to our partners at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance as the need arises.”

Skagit Valley Hospital Regional Cancer Care Center is among more than 1,500 accredited programs in the United States and Puerto Rico, representing nearly 30 percent of all hospitals.

In addition, The Breast Institute at the Regional Cancer Care Center is fully accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC), a program also administered by the American College of Surgeons.

survival

Sharing her story of Dr. Kimberly Allison knows breast cancer from two perspectives: as Director of Breast Pathology at the University of Washington Medical Center and as a patient who was diagnosed with Stage III breast cancer at age 33.

“I know breast cancer from two sides,” Dr. Allison said at the October Women’s Health Luncheon at McIntyre Hall.

“My experience proved to be an invaluable education that has impacted the way my

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colleagues and I view patients, the disease, and treatment.”

Dr. Allison said she found hearing the stories of fellow survivors was most comforting to her, so she shares her own journey in speaking engagements and in a book titled “Red Sunshine.”

“Initially, the reaction emotionally is a hard hitter,” Dr. Allison said.

“How you are going to survive is not something your oncologist can give you, it’s something you get from other survivors.”

Dr. Allison completed her treatment in 2009 and speaks with passion about her “personal action plan” to heal and stay healthy. For her, that includes exercise, yoga, acupuncture, writing and meditation.

Skagit Valley Hospital Regional Cancer Care Center offers a variety of support services for cancer survivors, including a monthly Women’s Support Group. For more information, see page 35 or contact Cancer Care Community Outreach at 360-8148287.

Mini-Transplants: Age no longer barrier to stem cell transplants for older patients Age should no longer be considered a defining factor when determining whether an older patient with blood cancer is a candidate for stem cell (bone marrow) transplantation.

That’s the conclusion of the first study summarizing long-term outcomes from a series of prospective studies of patients age 60 and over who were treated with the minitransplant, a “kinder, gentler” form of transplantation developed at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center.

The findings were published Nov. 2, 2011 in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).

Outstanding cancer care, right here Cancer survivor Michelle DeKok of Mount Vernon underwent treatment for Hodgkin’s Lymphoma at the Skagit Valley Hospital Regional Cancer Care Center in 2006. As a way to express appreciation to the people who cared for her and give back, she now volunteers at the hospital. She describes her experience and why she highly recommends the Regional Cancer Care Center: “Everyone is so helpful and compassionate and kind.

I had chemotherapy and radiation done here, CT scans, PET scans, everything could be done here so there was no reason to go down to Seattle for anything, which was nice not to have to travel. If any of my family and friends needed treatment, I would absolutely tell them to come here. They are affiliated with the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance – Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle Children’s and UW Medicine – so the doctors here are already talking to the doctors down there. Everybody here is wonderful.”

Skagit Valley Hospital Regional Cancer Care Center patients have access to this newer, gentler form of transplantation therapy thanks to the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance Network.

This network provides communitybased physicians, like those at Skagit Valley Hospital, with access to the latest cancer diagnostic and treatment information.

The mini-transplant, also known as nonmyeloablative transplantation, was developed for older and medically sicker patients who otherwise could not tolerate the standard, more-toxic, high-dose regimens used to prepare patients for transplantation.

Conventional transplants, which are generally not performed on people over age 60 or others who are medically unfit, use high doses of total-body irradiation and potent chemotherapy to eliminate leukemic cells. The intense treatment destroys the blood and immune system and is fatal unless the patient is rescued by infusion of donor bone marrow or stem cells isolated from peripheral blood.

The mini-transplant, in contrast, relies on the ability of donor immune cells to target and destroy the cancer without the need for high-dose chemotherapy and radiation. Instead, low-dose radiation and chemotherapy is used to suppress the immune system rather than destroy it. This helps the body accept the donor stem cells, which then go to work to attack cancer cells—called the graftvs.-leukemia effect—and rebuild the immune system.

The five-year rates of overall and disease-progression-free survival among mini-transplant patients were 35 percent and 32 percent, respectively. Patients in three age groups: 60 to 64, 65 to 69, and 70 to 75 had comparable survival rates, which suggested that age played a limited role in how patients tolerate the mini-transplant. Increased medical problems unrelated to cancer and a higher degree of cancer aggressiveness were the two factors that affected survival among those older patients. *First published in Center News Weekly, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center; November 7, 2011; By Dean Forbes.

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Hospitalists on duty Paul Miller, MD joined the hospitalist team in November 2012 as the program’s Medical Director. He received his medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center, Southwestern Medical School in Dallas, TX. He completed his internship and residency at Parkland Memorial Hospital in Dallas.

Dr. Miller is board certified in Internal Medicine.

Hospitalists are physicians who specialize in the care of hospitalized patients, offering round-the-clock services for adults at Skagit Valley Hospital since 2005. The program has grown to include 10 physicians who care for the needs of hospitalized adult patients 24 hours a day.

Hospitalists work in conjunction with the patient’s primary care physician, notifying him or her of the patient’s admission to the hospital, diagnosis and plans for follow-up care. The hospitalist sends a summary of the patient’s hospital stay to the patient’s primary care provider who resumes care of the patient after discharge.

Hospitalists are trained in Internal Medicine and are experienced in caring for patients in the hospital, leading to efficient and high quality care.

Dorien McAbee, DO is a graduate of Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, Calif. She completed her residency training at Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, WA. She joined the hospitalist staff in 2012.

“The hospitalist service really does improve safety and the quality of care for our patients. Hospitalists keep current on hospital-based medicine which is very different from outpatient practices,” said Skagit Regional Health’s Chief Medical Officer Connie Davis, MD. Skagit Valley Hospital also added a pediatric hospitalist program in 2011 in partnership with Seattle Children’s.

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Patients benefit from having a physician available 24 hours a day to order tests and diagnostic procedures, answer questions and to communicate with family members.

The hospitalist team is able to positively impact the experience of many of the patients who receive care at Skagit Valley Hospital.

“I believe as a hospitalist I have a unique opportunity to be an advocate for patients during a vulnerable and difficult time in their lives,” said Hospitalist Dorien McAbee, DO. “I believe every patient deserves to be treated with compassion and dignity, and I hope I can help make the hospital stay and transition at discharge smooth and efficient.”

In November, Paul Miller, MD, joined the hospitalist team as Facility Medical Director with Team Health Hospital Medicine.

Each hospitalist cares for approximately 15 patients each day, which is within the national standard of 12 to 18 patients, Dr. Davis said.

In addition, she noted that the hospitalist team is readily available to help care for patients on other medical services at the hospital, such as surgery, OB or psychiatry when those patients have medical issues that are outside the purview of their admitting physician.

The hospitalist program also provides an opportunity to review data and processes to make sure Skagit Valley Hospital is delivering high quality care.

“We have a vision for the program,” Dr. Davis said. “Our organization wants to make the hospitalist service the best it can be, providing our patients with the best access to hospital and intensive care.”

In the future, Dr. Davis envisions the hospitalist team playing an active role in improving the health of the local community through the development of community health programs.

Care for kids too Skagit Valley Hospital provides pediatric hospitalist care in a program with Seattle Children’s Hospital to offer around-the-clock care to the youngest patients.

Bonita Baker, MD is a graduate of Creighton University School of Medicine in Omaha, NE and completed her internal medicine residency and internship at University of New Mexico School of Medicine in Albuquerque, NM. Dr. Baker also completed Pulmonary and Critical Care fellowships at the University of New Mexico. She joined the hospitalist team in 2009.

Nora Kirschner, MD joined the hospitalist team in 2012.

She received her medical degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine in Washington, DC. She completed her Internal Medicine residency training at the University of Virginia School of Medicine in Charlottesville, VA. Dr. Kirschner is board certified in Internal Medicine.

Randall Randhawa, MD received his medical degree from Karol Marcinkowski University in Poznan, Poland.

He completed the Internal Medicine residency program at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ypsilanti, MI. He came to the Skagit Valley in 2005 and practiced outpatient medicine until 2009 when he joined the hospitalist program.

Dmitry Feldman, DO joined the SVH hospitalists 2009.

He graduated from the University of Washington and Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine in Vallejo, Calif. He completed an osteopathic residency in internal medicine at Valley Hospital Medical Center in Las Vegas, NV.

Absan Khan, MD is one of the newest additions to the hospitalist team, arriving in 2012. He is a graduate of Kastruba Medical College in Manipal, India. Dr. Khan completed his internship and residency at Northeastern Pennsylvania Hospital in Wilkes-Barre, PA. He is board certified in Internal Medicine.

Geoffrey Spielmann, MD has been a hospitalist since the program started in 2005. Dr. Spielmann graduated from Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara followed by an Internal Medicine internship and residency at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY. He is board certified in Internal Medicine.

This team of skilled pediatricians focuses on the care of hospitalized children and newborns, providing families with the peace of mind in knowing a specialist is at the hospital 24/7.

Seattle Children’s helped to set up the program in July 2011, offers educational opportunities, adapts protocols specific to the hospital and makes specialists available as needed.

Having pediatric hospitalists allows clinic-based providers, including physicians trained in family medicine and pediatrics, to remain in the clinic seeing patients and provides a higher level of care for those children who are hospitalized. When the child is discharged from the hospital, care is transitioned back to the primary care provider.

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Excellent

progress Providers and staff in the Family Birth Center continue to be successful in efforts to reduce the number of elective deliveries before 39 weeks.

The initiative is endorsed statewide by the state Department of Health and the March of Dimes.

In 2010, the rate of deliveries before 39 weeks at Skagit Valley Hospital’s Family Birth Center was 20 percent. In 2011, the rate dropped below the goal of 7 percent and in the first quarter of 2012, the numbers dropped to 3 percent and in the second quarter dropped to zero.

“There has been a lot of cooperation among providers to reach the goal of no elective deliveries before 39 weeks,”

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Skagit regional health

said Dr. Sara Rowland, OB/GYN with Mount Vernon Women’s Clinic and Chair of the OB/GYN Department.

“There are important medical reasons that babies may need to be delivered before 39 weeks, but we are striving to meet the goal of the initiative in order to decrease complications in newborn babies from prematurity, and have made excellent progress.”

Dr. Robert Rosenfeld, OB/GYN with Skagit Regional Clinics, noted that the focus is on eliminating elective, early inductions to reduce the risk of issues with prematurity, such as neonatal breathing problems. There remain important reasons why the decision is made to induce labor before 39 weeks, such as elevated blood pressure, low amniotic fluid or twins.

in reducing early elective deliveries “It requires experience and an adequate knowledge base to help counsel expectant families on the risks and benefits of continuing a pregnancy vs. induction and delivery before 39 weeks,” Dr. Rosenfeld said.

“Working closely with our pediatric colleagues is an important part of the process.”

Initiatives in the Family Birth Center have included education for patients in prenatal classes regarding the important development of a baby’s brain, organs and lungs in the last few weeks of pregnancy, use of a preinduction checklist and collaboration with providers.

For more information, go to www.GoTheFull40.com.

Echocardiogram: A closer look at a child’s heart In partnership with Seattle Children’s Hospital, pediatric echocardiograms are now being performed at Skagit Valley Hospital.

The service started in December 2012 after Seattle Children’s staff provided training to cardiology technicians at Skagit Valley Hospital.

According to Seattle Children’s, an echocardiogram, or ultrasound, is used to look at the heart of a child or fetus as it works to evaluate the function of the heart muscle and look for abnormalities. It is a simple, painless procedure done in the same way that ultrasound pictures are taken of a fetus in a pregnant woman’s womb.

The studies will be performed at Skagit Valley Hospital and the results will be read by experts at Seattle Children’s.

“We are delighted to be able to bring a higher level of care to our youngest patients,” said Pat Proctor, Director of the Family Birth Center at Skagit Valley Hospital. “This allows us to perform these painless procedures here, with the support and expertise of Seattle Children’s.”

Skagit Regional Clinics

Riverbend Construction begins soon on new Mount Vernon facility

Construction begins soon on a new Skagit Regional Clinics facility in Mount Vernon.

Skagit Regional Clinics – Riverbend will be located at 2320 Freeway Drive, just north of College Way providing a convenient location with ample parking.

“For the benefit of the patients we serve, we continue to be successful in recruiting and retaining providers to our community and have reached capacity to add providers at our current Mount Vernon clinic,” said Jane Root, MS, RN, Chief Administrative Officer for Skagit Regional Clinics. “This is an opportunity for us to provide enhanced access to primary and specialty care services to continue to meet the demand of our growing community.”

The new clinic will provide extended hours Urgent Care, open weekends and holidays. In addition, services will include:

• Pediatrics • Dermatology • Lab • Pharmacy • X-ray

Pediatrics and dermatology will relocate from existing space at Skagit Regional Clinics on Kincaid Street, across from Skagit Valley Hospital, which is at capacity for provider space and faces parking limitations.

Additional space will be available for primary care services, such as Internal Medicine.

Construction is due to begin at Skagit Regional Clinics – Riverbend in April with opening set for May 2014.

Locations: Skagit Regional Clinics (SRC), formerly Skagit Valley Medical Center, operates 10 clinic locations in Mount Vernon, Stanwood, SedroWoolley, Anacortes, Oak Harbor and Camano Island. SRC is also part of the new Cascade Skagit Health Alliance in Arlington.

Services: SRC offers Family Medicine; Cardiology; Dermatology; Gastroenterology; General Surgery; Internal Medicine; Neurology; Neurosurgery; Occupational Medicine; Optometry; Orthopedics; Pediatrics; Podiatry; Pulmonology; Rheumatology; Sleep Medicine; Urgent Care; Urology; Women’s Health; Pharmacy, Laboratory and Radiology.

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SRC Family Medicine welcomes new physician in Mount Vernon Family Medicine physician Heather “Nizhonii” Kinsel-Evans, MD was anxious to get back to the Northwest after spending more than six years in Idaho and New Mexico where she completed her residency training and worked as an outpatient physician.

She has fond memories of her time in Seattle where she attended the University of Washington School of Medicine. She recalls weekends filled with adventures exploring the beaches, rainforests and mountains of western Washington.

Dr. Kinsel-Evans joined Skagit Regional Clinics’ Family Medicine department in September.

“I was excited to work with the Family Medicine physicians at SRC. They are admired and respected, not only among the SRC community, but also the local community as well,” she said of her new partners. “They enjoy what they do, have diverse backgrounds and are strong advocates for their patients.”

Dr. Kinsel-Evans enjoys the field of Family Medicine, which offers more continuity than many sub-specialty practices. “It is not uncommon for a Family Medicine physician to care for a newborn after birth and possibly one day care for their children as well. Family Medicine serves the entire spectrum of families – from children to grandparents and the individual to the extended family,” she said.

Dr. Kinsel-Evans said she finds satisfaction in the daily interactions with her patients and the variety of medical problems she encounters.

“One day is never like the next,” she said. “Family Medicine physicians are always prepared to serve multiple roles as a friend, healer, advocate, teacher and student.”

Dr. Kinsel-Evans noted that her special interests include newborn and well-child care, women’s health, geriatrics, adult medicine and preventive care. She also enjoys the relationships that she forms with

patients as she helps them meet individual goals such as getting diabetes under control, helping a patient quit smoking, preparing for the addition of a newborn or completing a sports physical. Her practice goals include striving to keep families healthy through preventive care and promotion of healthy lifestyles.

Outside of the office, Dr. KinselEvans follows the advice she gives to patients by staying active.

“Most clear days, you will find my family and me hiking, running down a trail, or exploring the outdoors in some fashion. I am looking forward to the upcoming ski season, and will find any excuse to travel or try something new,” she said.

She has a penchant for adventure and also scuba dives, goes hot air ballooning and river kayaking. On cold, cloudy Washington days you may find her enjoying her daily cup of coffee while relaxing with a good book or movie.

Bensons open new clinic Doctors Jennifer and David Benson have opened The Benson Medical Group, a new family practice clinic in Mount Vernon.

The new clinic is located at 110 N. LaVenture Road, Suite C and offers family practice and OB/GYN services.

Jennifer Benson, MD is a graduate of the University of Washington School of Medicine and completed a residency at Providence St. Peter Hospital in Olympia. She is Board Certified in Family Medicine.

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David Benson, MD is also a graduate of the University of Washington School of Medicine and completed a residency at Providence St. Peter Hospital in Olympia. He also completed an obstetrics residency in the U.S. Navy and a fellowship in obstetrics at Swedish Medical Center in Seattle, which allows him to see higher risk patients and perform C-sections. He is also Board Certified in Family Medicine.

For the past several years, the couple has practiced at North Cascade Family Physicians in Mount Vernon.

where matters for your care

you go

You get the best care when you see your regular health care provider. They know you and your medical history. For most medical problems, you should go to your regular health care provider first.

Doctor’s Office or Clinic

Unless you have a life-threatening emergency, you should start with a doctor’s office or clinic. They deliver basic care for common illnesses, minor injuries and routine health exams. Your doctor can also help you manage your health over time.

You should make an appointment with your doctor’s office for: Common illnesses such as colds, flu, ear aches, sore throats, migraines, fever, rashes Minor injuries such as sprains, back pain, minor cuts and burns, or minor eye injuries Regular physicals, prescription refills, vaccinations, chronic disease management and screenings A health problem where you need advice.

Usually open during regular business hours. May have some extended hours and weekend appointments.

For help finding a physician, call the Skagit Regional Health physician referral line at 360-848-5555.

Urgent Care/Walk-in

When your doctor is not available, urgent care clinics provide attention for non-life threatening medical problems or that could become worse if you wait.

When your regular doctor or health care provider is not available, you should go to an urgent care clinic for: Common illnesses such as colds, the flu, earaches, sore throats, migraines, fever, rashes Minor injuries such as sprains, back pain, minor cuts and burns or minor eye injuries

Hospital Emergency

SeaMar Community Health Center 1415 E. Kincaid Street, Mount Vernon 360-588-5550

You should use a hospital emergency room for serious or life threatening problems.

Sliding fees based on income. Inside Skagit Valley Hospital, use South/Kincaid entrance.

Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, don’t wait! Call 911 or get to your nearest hospital emergency room.

SeaMar Community Health Center 1400 N. La Venture, Mount Vernon 360-428-4075 Monday 8 a.m.- 9 p.m., Tue-Fri 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Cascade Skagit Health Alliance Urgent Care 3823 172nd Street NE, Arlington 360-618-5000 Open 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. holidays. Closed on Christmas.

North Cascade Family Physicians (NCFP) 2116 E. Section Street, Mount Vernon 360-428-1700 (Available to established NCFP patients, new patients with accepted insurance, or on a one-time basis) Open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Saturday.

• Chest pain • Severe abdominal pain • Coughing or vomiting blood • Severe burns • Deep cuts or bleeding that won’t stop • Sudden blurred vision • Difficulty breathing • Sudden dizziness, weakness, or loss or coordination or balance • Sudden slurred speech or difficulty understanding • Numbness in the face, arm, or leg • Sudden, severe headache • Seizures • High fever • Any other condition you believe is life threatening Emergency Rooms are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

Dental Resources

SeaMar Dental Burlington – 360-755-9151 Mount Vernon – 360-428-4075

Skagit Regional Clinics Urgent Care 1400 E. Kincaid, Mount Vernon 360-428-6434

Dental Van/Community Action Agency 360-416-7585 Mount Vernon- 1st Thursday of each month

Open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and holidays. Closed on Christmas.

Sedro-Woolley- 1st Friday and 3rd Tuesday of each month

Safe Harbor Free Clinic 9631 269th Street, Stanwood 425-870-7384

Swinomish Tribal Dental La Conner – 360-466-3900

Anacortes - 3rd Friday of each month

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(Front Row) Deifilia Vasquez, Marisah Rocero, Corrin Hamburg, Maria Matson (Back Row) Gregg Davidson, Allen Maskell, Steve Schultz

Scholarships awarded to Junior Medical Volunteers Six students were honored as Skagit Regional Health’s 2012 Junior Medical volunteer scholarship recipients. The honorees include: Deifilia Vasquez earned a 3.6 grade point average at Mount Vernon High School and volunteered 62 hours in the Children’s Therapy Department. She is studying nursing and microbiology at the University of Washington.

Marisah Rocero earned a 3.9 grade point average at Mount Vernon High School and volunteered 80 hours at the Skagit Valley Hospital information desk. She is interested in studying dentistry or environmental science at the University of Washington.

Corrin Hamburg earned a 4.0 grade point average at Mount Vernon High School and is attending Washington State University, with the goal of becoming a chemistry teacher or research chemist. She volunteered 300 hours at the Skagit Valley Hospital Regional Cancer Care Center as well as the Wound Healing Center.

Maria Matson received a 3.7 grade point average at Mount Vernon High School and Skagit Valley College and is interested in pursuing studies in nursing or medical research at Washington State University. She volunteered 252 hours at Skagit Valley Hospital at the information desk and in the Regional Cancer Care Center.

Allen Maskell earned a 3.8 grade point average at Burlington-Edison High School and volunteered 51 hours in the Skagit Valley Hospital Pharmacy. He plans to pursue a career in health care and attend the University of Washington.

Anna Dubins received a 3.4 grade point average and volunteered more than 700 hours at Skagit Valley Hospital. She plans to study nursing or accounting at Washington State University.

Taste by the Lake raises More than 100 people attended the first ‘Taste by the Lake’ event in August where guests enjoyed tastes from local wineries and breweries and raised more than $5,000 to benefit the J.E.M. Guild.

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The J.E.M. Guild provides welcome bags, as well as DVDs, toys and games, for pediatric patients at Skagit Valley Hospital.

Skagit regional health

Hospice program aims to serve veterans are quickly being followed by younger Vietnam War veterans, many of whom are confronting serious illnesses at an even earlier age.

It’s never too late to say “thank you” to our nation’s veterans: even at the end of life.

One of every four dying Americans is a veteran. A generation of World War II and Korean War veterans are facing end-of-life care decisions now, and they

In November 2012, Hospice of the Northwest announced participation in a national effort to better serve America’s veterans at the end of life. As part of the We Honor Veterans program, developed by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs, Hospice of the Northwest has

committed to increasing veterans’ access to compassionate, high-quality hospice care for those who are facing a life-limiting illness. Through We Honor Veterans, we are ensuring that our organization is equipped to address the unique needs of our nation’s veterans.

If you know a veteran who is in need of the special care hospice brings to people facing a life-limiting illness, please reach out and help them learn more about the services that hospice can provide. Contact us at info@hospicenw. org or 360-814-5550 to learn more.

Gratitude for giving: Hospice receives grant, holds auction Special thanks to the members of Soroptimist International of Anacortes for funding a $2,000 grant to Hospice of the Northwest in support of updating the equipment clinicians use in the field. With this grant, Hospice of the Northwest will purchase much-needed physical assessment tools, such as scales, calipers, and respiratory flow meters for our hospice nurses. Community grants like this one help Hospice provide outstanding services.

The Hospice of the Northwest Foundation held its 12th Annual Auction and Gala in support of dignity and compassion at the end of life. The October event, titled “Singin’ in the Rain,” raised more than $120,000

$5,000

Participating wineries and breweries included Skagit River Brewery, Big Sky Brewing Company, Vin Du Lac Winery, Pasek Cellars Winery, Tulip Valley Vineyard, Challenger Ridge Vineyard and Eagle Haven Winery.

The event featured food by Max Dale’s, a silent auction and Celtic harp music by Kathie Hardy.

to support Hospice of the Northwest services and programs. The event also established a designated “Technology and Equipment” fund to ensure that Hospice staff always has the equipment and technology they need to provide the best care possible.

The Hospice of the Northwest Foundation, a nonprofit 501 (c) 3 corporation, is dedicated to raising funds in support of the programs and services of Hospice of the Northwest.

Each year, the Foundation grants more than $250,000 in support of

Hospice of the Northwest. These grants help to fill the gap between what it costs to care for a patient and what Medicare and other insurers reimburse the agency. The grants also help to support important programs (such as complementary therapy and community bereavement services) that are not reimbursed through insurance programs. To learn more about Hospice of the Northwest Foundation, contact Executive Director Wendy Rorhbacher at 360-814-5702 or e-mail wrohrbacher@hospicenw.org.

(Above) Attendees at the Hospice of the Northwest auction and gala include, from left, Hospice of the Northwest Medical Director Paul Johnson, MD, Tim Lewis, Hospice of the Northwest nurses Diana Bartlett and Krista Hunter auctioneer, Patrick Grant and Hospice of the Northwest nurse Kathryn Clary.

The event was hosted by Becky and Dr. Robert Rosenfeld at their home, with assistance from many J.E.M. Guild members. Event sponsors included Donald and Klara Barford, Dr. Patti Brettell, Skagit River Brewing, Dr. Jon Dahl, Dr. Jerry and Marilyn Eisner, Stanwood Haggens, Alfie Hill, Dr. Tod Jones, Dr. Ryan and Megan Koonce, K&L Leather, Dayle and Greg Lunz, Tamara Mayo,

Diane Morton, Dr. Deborah North, Pat Proctor, Fred Renco, Jane Root, Skagit Valley Hospital Gift Shop, Mary Wathen, Wells Nursery, Mark and Jennifer Worthley, Whidbey Coffee, Angell and Company, Debra Doyle, TechniArt, Dr. David Goldman and Linda Blackwell, Jim and Deb Stroh, Vin Du Lac Winery, Advantage Vending, and LabCorp.

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Assuring the availability of quality health care Our Mission The mission of the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation is to raise, manage and distribute funds to assure the continued availability of quality health care services and programs at Skagit Valley Hospital.

The Foundation will foster awareness of and community support for Skagit Valley Hospital through the involvement of the people it serves.

Two dozen years of Trees and Support 24th Annual Festival of Trees Rings in the Holidays!

Board of Trustees Volunteers are the key to the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation’s efforts in securing philanthropy. We are pleased to acknowledge the efforts of our trustees, who unselfishly give their time and resources as an example to all, and who provide leadership in the Foundation’s prudent stewardship of gifts.

Carmen AndersonBruner Dee Berglin Susan Brown Chris Cammock Jill Christensen Debbie Connolly Gregg Davidson Gary Fiedler Marcia Johnson June Jordan Virginia Learned Bruce Lisser Corey Mendoza Kevin Mendoza Jean Miller Christie Peterson Jill Pickering Jaynie Roozen

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Richard Roozen Deanna Scott Brett Simbe Jim Spane Bob Taylor Shirley Watkinson Dr. Rob Zwick

Staff Linda Frizzell Executive Director Wendy Ragusa Development Coordinator Becky Wells Development Associate

Skagit regional health

Festival

of

trees

The 24th Annual Festival of Trees, presented by the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation and title sponsor Associated Petroleum Products, raised more than $210,000 in gross proceeds to benefit the Foundation’s current project – the Cardiac Care Services Special Observation Unit at Skagit Valley Hospital.

The Thanksgiving weekend event, featuring the display of more than 30 elaborately decorated Christmas trees, drew a capacity crowd for the November 24 Gala Evening & Auction at St. Joseph Center in Mount Vernon sponsored by Mountain Glen Retirement Community. “It was a fantastic evening and we are so grateful for the community support,” said Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation President Jaynie Roozen.

This signature fund-raising event is supported by exceptional sponsorship from the community. Festival event sponsors also included Whidbey Island Bank – Live Auction Sponsor, Group Health – Holiday Treetini and Visit with Santa Sponsor, Key Bank – Silent Auction Sponsor, Skagit State Bank and Thomas Cuisine Management – Family Festival Days Sponsors, Alfie Hill – Tree Raffle Sponsor, Williams & Nulle – Designer Wreath Sponsor, Peoples Bank – Lockbox Event and more than 100 tree, tablescape and auction item sponsors.

President’s Choice

Designers’ Choice

“Chocolate Wishes, Godiva Dreams” earned the President’s Choice Award from Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation President Jaynie Roozen at Designer Appreciation Night. The tree was designed by Susan Husk. Kern Funeral Home and Mount Vernon Westside Merchants sponsored the tree and decorations.

“Have Yourself a Very Merry Tin Toy Christmas” was selected as the Designers’ Choice in voting by all tree designers in attendance at the Designer Appreciation Night; the tree was designed by Melissa King and Laury Volwiler. Tree and decorations were sponsored by Skagit Endodontics.

People’s Choice

Raffle Tree

The People’s Choice tree is selected in voting by thousands who attended Family Festival Days on Friday and Sunday. The winning tree, “Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen” was designed by Ashton, Abby, Lauren, Kate and Brandon Atkinson. The tree and its décor were sponsored by Atkinson Family Dentistry and Soroptimist International of Burlington.

Pat Jenkins of Anacortes was the winner of the Alfie Hill-sponsored raffle tree designed by the JoAnn Lazaron, Angela Leffelman and Kellie Cargile. This is the Lazaron team’s third year in designing the raffle tree.

High-bid items included the “Birds of a Feather Shop Together” tree designed

by Deirdre Van Sant, Cathrin Hughes Davies, Bridget Ibarra, Lynnie Almvig and Liubov Dalseg and sponsored by Concrete Nor’West, Life Care Center of Sedro-Woolley and Strauss Jewelers which sold for $2,400 and an Alaskan fishing trip sponsored by Reel Class Charters, which sold for $4,250.

Thousands of people enjoyed viewing the beautiful and cleverly decorated Christmas trees during Family Festival Days, which also featured live local entertainment and kids’ activities. Sponsored by Skagit State Bank and Thomas Cuisine Management, those in attendance participated in activities which included a scavenger hunt, Letters to Santa, face painting and craft projects.

Performances by local bands and vocal ensembles delighted audiences throughout the weekend.

Jill Christensen of Burlington served as Festival Chair for a second year supported by a committee of volunteers.

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Celebratin Our Supporters

Festival Volunteer of the Year

This year’s Festival of Trees Volunteer of the Year award was presented to Pat Grenfell of SedroWoolley. Pat demonstrates her dedication to the Foundation and enthusiasm for the Festival of Trees with an “above and beyond” spirit. A former member of the Foundation board, Pat currently sits on the Foundation’s Public Relations Committee, Sunrise Inn Committee and the Festival of Trees Sponsorship Committee. We are so appreciative of Pat’s willingness to “roll up her sleeves” to work at events, provide wonderful historical perspective to the good works of the Foundation and financially support the Foundation’s many annual projects and programs.

We appreciate you Pat!

(Above) Pink Firetruck organizer Lee Ann Dean and the MVHS Cheer Team pose at the September 13th Pink Fire truck event.

The Pink Heals fire truck brigade travels the United States raising cancer awareness and funds to support women who are battling cancer. More than $5,000 was raised to benefit the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation’s Cancer Care Fund through donations and the sale of pink T-shirts.

(Below) Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation President Jaynie Roozen accepts a check for $276 from Riverside Health Club owners Karen Westra and Denise Skelton. These funds were raised for the Breast Institute Fund during the club’s annual “Wear Pink” day.

(Above) Skagit Sun Farm in La Conner, set up a berry stand in the Skagit Radiology parking lot this summer. For every flat of berries sold, owner Don Kruse donated $1 to the Foundation. Skagit Sun raised a total of $2,635 to benefit the Foundation’s Unrestricted Fund.

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ng

A huge thank you to the many local groups throughout our region who put on outstanding fund-raising events to benefit the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation.

(Left) The Burlington Eagles Club and Skagit Longboard Association presented the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation with a check for $3,873. The funds were raised during their Shuffleboard Benefit Tournament and are designated to the Regional Cancer Care Center. The Foundation thanks the Eagles and the Longboard Association for their generous support!

(Above) For the third year in a row, the Wes Anderson Memorial Bowling League presented Skagit Woodstock – a day of sunshine and music. Pictured above are organizers Reed Harlow, Tom Judge and Dave Clark. This year’s event featured five bands and raised more than $3,000 to benefit the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation Cancer Care Fund.

(Left) UFC Legend Randy Couture, former Skagit Valley Kidney Center patient Lisa Portis and the Swinomish Northern Lights Casino, teamed together to create a special event to raise funds for the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation’s Kidney Dialysis fund. The event featured an elegant seafood dinner donated by the casino and Steve Edwards of La Conner, a live auction, raffle and a photo/autograph opportunity with Couture. $8,050 was raised for the Kidney Dialysis Fund.

(Left) Foundation board member Virginia Learned accepts a check from the Sedro-Woolley Riding Club. $1,405 was donated from this year’s “Tough Enough to Wear Pink” event.

(Above) Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation President Jaynie Roozen and Executive Director Linda Frizzell accept a $1,000 check from Kati Collins, Manager of Key Bank ‘s Mount Vernon branch at the ribbon cutting of the new Mount Vernon office. The donation will go toward the $350,000 the Foundation is currently raising to relocate and create a new, private Cardiac Care Special Observation Unit at Skagit Valley Hospital.

Having A Heart for the Cardiac Care Special Observation Unit The Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation’s Board of Trustees is in the process of raising $350,000 to create a new Cardiac Care Special Observation Unit at Skagit Valley Hospital.

Skagit Valley Hospital is proud to offer comprehensive heart and vascular care. Our trained staff and team of cardiologists, surgeons and radiologists offer the latest diagnostic and treatment options for treating heart disease and vascular conditions. While some cardiac and vascular treatments are available on an outpatient visit, we also provide emergency and inpatient heart and vascular care.

The cardiology program is a quickly growing, high-quality program. In 2012, the program was ranked by the national ratings firm HealthGrades as #1 in Washington state and among the top 10 percent in the nation for its coronary interventional procedures.

Skagit Valley Hospital is the only hospital in Skagit County with facilities and physicians to provide this life-saving care. The program has outgrown our current special observation unit, which sees patient’s pre-and post-cardiac procedure. This new unit, to be located adjacent to the cardiac procedure suites, will provide an enlarged and enhanced space as well as better privacy for patients and their families.

The Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation is raising funds through its annual Festival of Trees and ParTee Golf Classic events, as well as through other projects during the year.

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Partnerships

Connections Personal

(Left) Jim and Becky Goodrow of Mount Vernon are longtime supporters of the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation. “Santa’s Workshop” (inset) was decorated by the Goodrow family for the 2012 Festival of Trees.

support Skagit Valley Hospital

In business for more than 40 years here in the Skagit Valley, Jim Goodrow of Mount Vernon, shares his appreciation for his success.

“The community has been very good to me and was instrumental in my financial advising business’ success,” he said. “Partnering with the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation has been a way to give back to our community that so faithfully supported me and my business for all of those years.”

Since Jim’s retirement in 2010, his wife Becky and their family continue to support the Foundation with their enthusiastic generosity.

Their relationship with the Foundation began years ago, when a family member became a dialysis patient at the Skagit Valley Kidney Center. The Goodrows immediately got involved. “Through visits with my uncle and my clients, I discovered there was a need for more dialysis machines. It just happened that the same year, the Festival of Trees proceeds were benefiting the center to help purchase the much-needed equipment,” explains Jim. “We

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quickly signed up to help the Festival as a tree sponsor.”

Soon after, Becky was invited to design a tree. This past November, enjoying her fifth year as a designer, Becky brought her extended family into the “decorating fold” to create one-of-a-kind, special trees.

“I care a lot about my tree design.

I want a tree that will be enjoyed in your home or business,” she said.

The Festival of Trees has become a family holiday tradition as the Goodrows’ daughters and spouses fill in as part of the decorating team. “We thrive under chaos,” laughs Becky.

“Everyone pulls together to make it happen.”

Even the Goodrows’ grandchildren ages seven on down, help to develop tree themes. With a twinkle in her eye Becky says, “My tree ideas emerge as seen through the eyes of my grandchildren.”

Jim and Becky share a strong desire to make the hospital part of community pride. Both speak very highly of the hospital, physicians and

staff. Both have been guests of the hospital. Becky recalls, “During my last visit, I realized how sick I was. It was rewarding for me to see the staff work as a real team for my care.”

Seeing this firsthand, the Goodrows believe that strong communication is key among the patient, their doctor and staff in providing quality care.

The family’s hospital experiences range from their daughter Amy’s role as a surgical recovery nurse to visiting new family friends in the Family Birth Center. While her own mother recovered from hip surgery, Becky stayed with her overnight in her hospital room. “It was nice to know we were in one of the best hospitals in the state for hip replacements,” Becky says.

The Goodrows sing the praises of the hospital’s reputation of providing high quality care. They continue their involvement to raise money for equipment that will be used by many for years to come. Jim and Becky hope their passion for community-based projects like Skagit Valley Hospital will motivate and inspire others to get involved and give.

The Siemens Espree high-performance magnet at Cascade Skagit Health Alliance is designed with patient comfort in mind, offering state-of-theart imaging in a more open environment.

Smokey Point clinic offers primary, specialty and urgent care Cascade Skagit Health Alliance, a partnership between Cascade Valley Hospital in Arlington and Skagit Valley Hospital in Mount Vernon, offers a state-of-the-art medical facility conveniently located just east of I-5 at 3823 172nd Street in Arlington.

Cascade Skagit Health Alliance is also home to one of two Skagit Valley Hospital Regional Cancer Care Center locations, where chemotherapy, IV services, nurse visits and appointments with board certified oncologists are all available.

Patients will find a wide array of services available and expert care from friendly and professional providers.

Additional on-site services include laboratory, X-ray, MRI and a full-service pharmacy operated

by Arlington Pharmacy. For more information, please visit www. cascadeskagithealth.org.

Since opening in Spring 2012, Cascade Skagit Health Alliance has added new Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, urgent care and specialty providers to meet the health care needs of those who live, work and pass though Arlington, Smokey Point and surrounding communities each day.

Cascade Skagit Health Alliance’s urgent care clinic is open extended hours from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Monday – Friday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends. Urgent care providers treat patients with non-life threatening illnesses and injuries - no appointment necessary! You do not need to be established with a provider at Cascade Skagit Health Alliance to use urgent care.

Introducing our providers: Pediatrics Appointments: 360-618-5000 • Krista Galitsis, MD, PhD Family Medicine Appointments: 360-618-5000 • Susan Carmody, ARNP • Vernon Hall, DO • Anne Herbert, PA-C • Colleen Shannon, ARNP • Philip Zylstra, MD Family Medicine with OB Appointments: 360-618-5000 • Carmen Oprea, MD • Mark Spencer, MD

Internal Medicine Appointments: 360-618-5000 • Seyed “Sam” Hejazi, MD • Mamatha Modem, MBBS (joining us in 2013) Cardiology Appointments: 360-336-9757 • Oscar Briseno, MD • Yelena Rosenberg, MD • Sanjeev Vaderah, MD Occupational Medicine Appointments: 360-657-8700 • Marshall Anderson, MD Oncology Appointments: 360-657-8660 • Mehrdad Jafari, MD • Kiarash Kojouri, MD • Bruce Mathey, MD Urgent Care For information: 360-657-8700 • Bill Brooks, PA-C • Ann Lower, ARNP • Tari Roche, DO • Shannon Thom, ARNP • Magdalena Walczak, MD Urology Appointments: 360-424-7991 • Courtney Shick, PA-C HealthQuest Winter 2013

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expand Camano Island clinic Project to

Skagit Regional Clinics – Camano Island will expand in 2013 with an addition and remodel of the primary care clinic.

The clinic, the only health care facility on Camano Island, is located at 127 N. East Camano Drive on Camano Island, just south of Camaloch Golf Course.

Family Medicine providers Joshua Griggs, MD and Anne Herbert, PA-C – both residents of Camano Island – offer appointments five days per week and care for patients of all ages, from birth through geriatrics. The remodel will provide adequate space to add a third provider at the Camano Island clinic, to enhance access to care to patients.

“I expect that the residents of Camano Island will notice big changes with the clinic,” Dr. Griggs said.

“Combined with the strength offered by management from Skagit Regional

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Health, the upgrades will make the clinic more inviting to patients, improve access to heath care, increase visibility from the road and allow more space for patient care. I am confident that these changes will combine to create a reliable health home to be proud of.”

The nearly 1,500-square-foot expansion, funded by a $500,000 state Department of Commerce grant, will begin in March and conclude by the end of June. Five new exam rooms will be added, including one larger room that will serve as a future treatment room.

In addition, a new covered entry and vestibule and expanded waiting area will provide a more welcoming area for patients and families. Work and office space for medical assistants will be added along with expanded reception and nurse work area.

“Combined with the strength offered by management from Skagit Regional Health, the upgrades will make the clinic more inviting to patients, improve access to heath care, increase visibility from the road and allow more space for patient care. I am confident that these changes will combine to create a reliable health home to be proud of.”

Joshua Griggs, MD

To schedule an appointment at Skagit Regional Clinics – Camano Island, call 360-387-5398.

HealthQuest

Skagit Regional Health offers the following health screenings and education programs at Skagit Regional Clinics - Stanwood, 9631 269th St. NW, Stanwood or Skagit Regional Clinics – Camano Island, 127 N. East Camano Drive. To register, complete the registration form on the inside of the back page or call 360-629-6481 or 360-814-2424.

Pre-registration is required for all classes unless otherwise noted.

Stanwood/Camano neighborhood

Doc Talk

Healthy Legs: New Treatment Options for Varicose Veins Learn how to prevent varicose veins and new treatment options that can improve the quality of your life. This presentation is provided by Joshua Hawkins, MD, general surgeon with Skagit Regional Clinics Surgery.

March 12 (Tue) 5:30- 7 p.m.

Skagit Regional Clinics - Stanwood 9631 269th Street NW Conference Room A/B This event is FREE, but RSVP is required

Screening to Detect Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), Elevated Cholesterol and More!

The Skagit Regional Heart & Vascular Institute offers this popular community screening on Wednesday mornings for all adults over age 18.

• Full lipid profile for cholesterol plus glucose requires 12 – 14 hour fast, water and medications only (no alcohol 24 hours prior.) This is a fingerstick test with immediate results.

Insurance companies are required to give a discount on auto insurance for those over age 55 who complete the course. Course fee is $12 for AARP members; $14 for non-members.

Please bring check payable to AARP, your AARP card or number (if you are a member), and your driver’s license number to the first class – do not mail check. Pre-registration is required. To register call 360-814-2424.

• Body composition testing to detect elevated body fat.

• Review results with a health care provider.

Call 360-629-6481 to schedule an appointment for this screening program that takes just 40 minutes!

The cost is only $35 and it is held on Wednesday mornings at Skagit Regional Clinics Cardiology. A physician referral is not necessary, although we ask that you provide the name of a primary care provider, if you have one, so results can be forwarded.

Jan. 30 and 31 (Wed/Thur) 1 – 5 p.m.

Skagit Regional Clinics - Camano Island 9631 269th Street NW Conference Room A/B Pay at the class

AARP Driver Safety Program This two-session program for people older than 50 is designed to enhance the driving skills of the mature adult.

Attend this screening to find out your risk of PAD, cardiovascular disease and stroke and learn how to reduce it.

The screening includes the following tests and results are immediate: • Ankle brachial pressure index to help detect peripheral artery disease (no caffeine or nicotine for one hour prior).

• Blood pressure.

Anne Herbert, PA-C and Joshua Griggs, MD provide patient care at Skagit Regional Clinics - Camano Island.

Skagit Regional Clinics A department of Skagit Valley Hospital

Camano Island

127 N. East Camano Drive Suite A Camano Island 360-387-5398

Stanwood

9631 269th St. NW Stanwood 360-629-1600

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Cholesterol/Diabetes and Vitamin D Screenings Cholesterol screenings are provided at the following locations by Skagit Valley Hospital in cooperation with Dynacare Skagit Laboratories.

Full Lipid Profile: 12-14 hour fast required, water and prescribed medications only, no coffee or tea.

No alcohol 24 hours prior. Results include total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, and glucose (blood sugar) levels. Fee: $15 (cash or check payable to SVH only).

Vitamin D: This screening can help you identify the level of Vitamin D in your blood. This screening is not recommended for patients on anticonvulsant medication. Fasting is not required. The cost is $35 (cash or check payable to SVH). No appointment required.

All results are mailed to your home.

For information call 360-814-2424 or 360-629-6481. No appointment or pre-registration is required.

Feb. 7 (Thur) 7:30 - 9 a.m.

Skagit Regional Clinics - Camano Island 127 N. East Camano Drive March 21 (Thur) 8 – 9:30 a.m.

Skagit Regional Clinics - Stanwood 9631 269th Street NW Conference Room A/B

Bone Density Screening Find out if you are at risk for osteoporosis by having a bone density scan. This is a non-invasive, painless scan of one hand. Results are available immediately. Fee $10 (cash or check payable to SVH). No appointment is required.

Feb. 7 (Thur) 7:30 - 9 a.m.

Skagit Regional Clinics - Camano Island 127 N. East Camano Drive March 21 (Thur) 8 – 9:30 a.m.

Skagit Regional Clinics - Stanwood 9631 269th Street NW Conference Room A/B

Skin Cancer Screening Corinne Sayler, PA-C, with Skagit Regional Clinics – Dermatology will conduct visual inspections of skin abnormalities you are concerned about. No charge. Call 360-814-2424 or 360-629-6481 to schedule an appointment.

CPR and First Aid Classes are held at various locations in Stanwood.

Call the North County Regional Fire Authority at 360-652-1246 for more information.

Heart Saver Adult/Child CPR and First Aid Classes are held at the Camano Island Fire and Rescue. For more information call 360-387-1512.

The Island County Health Department is located at 127 N. East Camano Drive, down the hall from the Skagit Regional Clinics - Camano Island.

They offer services ranging from TB testing, counseling and surveillance, WIC, adult and child immunizations, Healthy Baby Visits, Maternal Child Health and home visiting, travel vaccines and communicable disease.

For more information call 360-3870184.

March 6 (Wed) 1 - 4 p.m.

Skagit Regional Clinics - Stanwood 9631 269th Street NW Conference Room A/B Skagit Regional Clinics - Stanwood offers Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, OB/GYN, Orthopedics, Podiatry, Lab and Radiology. For more information, call 360-629-1600.

Providers at Skagit Regional Clinics -Stanwood include, from left, Keith Erickson, PA-C, Lynn Handy, ARNP, James Grierson, MD, Corinne Bresko, MD, Edythe Garvey, ARNP, Johnna Wilcox, MD and Ryan Guanzon, MD.

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All classes require pre-registration unless specified. Call 360-814-2424 or see inside of back cover.

HealthQuest Women’s Health Luncheon The Heart of a Woman

Heart disease is the number one killer of women in the United States.

Our Heart Health Month Women’s Health Luncheon features two board certified cardiologists, Yelena Rosenberg, MD and Elizabeth Gauer, MD, both with Skagit Regional Clinics - Cardiology, presenting information about heart disease in women. You will learn about the unique risks and symptoms for women and hear an update on the latest information for detection, prevention and treatment. In addition, you’ll learn more about peripheral artery disease and its’ relationship to heart disease.

This event is sponsored by the Skagit Regional Heart and Vascular Institute and co-sponsored by Mira Vista Care Center, Josephine Sunset Home, Home Instead Senior Care, Home Attendant Care, Country Meadows Village, Walgreens, Skagit Valley Senior Village, Janette Carroll, DDS, and The Bridge at Mount Vernon. Bring a friend, enjoy lunch together and learn about how to keep your heart healthy in this important Heart Health Month event.

February 13 (Wednesday) 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

McIntyre Hall, Mount Vernon $15 includes lunch Pre-registration required by February 10

Doc Talk

Healthy Legs: New Treatment Options for Varicose Veins

Learn how to prevent varicose veins and new treatment options that can improve the quality of your life. This presentation is provided by Joshua Hawkins, MD, general surgeon with Skagit Regional Clinics - Surgery.

Feb. 5 (Tue) 6- 7:30 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital Cascade Room This event is FREE, but RSVP is required

NEW Tips for Alleviating Back Pain Back pain will affect up to 90% of Americans in their lifetime.

In this evening presentation, Jenna Beh, PA-C with Skagit Regional Clinics – Neurosurgery, will provide information on the

DON’T WAIT TOO LONG! Many of our classes fill quickly so early registration is recommended. You are not confirmed in the class until we receive your payment (for classes requiring payment). Don’t lose your space in class – pay early! See the inside of the back cover of this magazine for registration information. Pre-registration is required for all classes unless otherwise noted.

most common types and causes of back pain, a variety of self-care options to help alleviate or prevent back pain, and which conditions can be treated surgically.

February 25 (Mon) 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital Cascade Room This event is FREE, but RSVP is required

Take Charge of Your Health! Living Well with Chronic Conditions Living Well Workshop is a sixweek self-management workshop designed to help people gain self-confidence in their ability to manage any type of ongoing health problem. These health problems may include heart disease, lung disease, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, cancer, high blood pressure, being overweight, fibromyalgia, and others.

Classes are facilitated by two certified leaders, one or both of whom are non-health professionals with a chronic disease themselves.

Subjects covered include: • Ways to deal with problems such as frustration, fatigue, pain, and isolation • Appropriate exercise for maintaining and improving strength, flexibility, and endurance • Appropriate use of medications • Communicating effectively with family, friends, and health professionals • How to evaluate new treatments

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Each participant receives a copy of the companion book, “Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions” and an audio relaxation CD, “Time for Healing.” Participants will also receive a free six-week membership at the Skagit YMCA for new members.

Feb. 5 - March 12 (Tue) 2 – 4:30 p.m.

The Bridge at Mount Vernon 301 South La Venture Road Mount Vernon $39 includes course book and CD; $69 for couples who share book and CD Full refund available after first class if not 100% satisfied Limited to 15 participants Pre-registration is required

NEW - Explore the Sweeter Side of Diabetes: Healthy Recipes to Celebrate with Your Valentine Valentine’s Day is commonly associated with an abundance of sweet treats that can be dangerous for the nearly 26 million Americans with Type 2 diabetes who need to maintain blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol control.

This class provided by Megan Gill, RD with Skagit Regional Health will inspire you to create delectable meals that will make you feel better, and you won’t even miss the extra portion sizes, butter, oil, cream and salt. You’ll be able to share the sumptuous meal with others who, like you, desire to become more creative and healthful menu planners.

The menu will include Red Rosemary Lentil Soup, Spicy Arugula Salad, and Chocolate Walnut Truffles. You will have the recipes to take home, along with tips on how to manage your diabetes and a referral form for Skagit Regional Health’s Diabetic Education Program.

Feb. 7 (Thur) 6 - 8 pm Gretchen’s Kitchen 509 S. 1st Street, Mount Vernon $15

Meditation for Calming and Focusing Your Mind Have you thought about trying meditation but find it too difficult to do on your own? Let an experienced meditator guide you in simple techniques to become comfortable with this valuable skill. Comments from previous class participants include: “Jan Hodgman is a gift…

An excellent class.” “Jan is heaven sent. She has taught me a unique way to let go of resistance.”

Meditation is now scientifically recognized to help alleviate stress, mild depression, and anxiety.

Jan Hodgman, MA, has been meditating for more than 30 years and has more than eight years of monastic practice as an ordained Zen priest.

Feb. 13, 20 and 27 (Wed) 6 – 8 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital Cascade Room Enter through Kincaid Street entrance $39

Spanish for Health Care Providers Workshop Learn essential Spanish vocabulary and phrases common in your health care workplace, in order to communicate with Spanishspeaking patients on a basic level, while addressing several cultural differences. Topics include greeting patients and family, discussing pain/part of the body, medical conditions, simple commands/ instructions, dates and times.

The instructor is Sarah Rowan, owner of Salud! Spanish Programs.

This program is approved for six contact hours of continuing nursing education.

Feb. 26 and 28 (Tue/Thur) 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital Shuksan Room Enter through Kincaid Street $125 includes course materials Pre-registration required

Photo by Linda Wright

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Skagit regional health

All classes require pre-registration unless specified. Call 360-814-2424 or see inside of back cover.

Continuing Health Education

AARP Driver Safety Program This two-session program for people older than 50 is designed to enhance the driving skills of the mature adult. Insurance companies are required to give a discount on auto insurance for those over age 55 who complete the course. Course fee is $12 for AARP members; $14 for non-members. Please bring check payable to AARP, your AARP card or number (if you are a member), and your driver’s license number to the first class – do not mail check. Pre-registration is required.

To register call 360-814-2424.

Feb. 5 and 6 (Tue/Wed) 1 - 5 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital San Juan A/B Pay at class

Please check with your insurance provider to confirm. For other questions, or more information about the program, contact our Diabetic Education Program Scheduler at 360-814-2184.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program Do you suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and want to improve the quality of your life? This intensive program can help patients with chronic lung disorders including emphysema, chronic bronchitis or asthma, reduce respiratory symptoms, improve functional independence and complications and reduce hospitalizations. The program is provided by a multidisciplinary team. Participants learn self-management and relaxation techniques to improve emotional well-being, skills to help regain control of their breathing, and pursue activities to the fullest extent of their abilities.

Please see page 27 for information about classes in Stanwood/Camano Island.

The class meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. for approximately 10 weeks. For more information call 360-814-2236.

Certified Diabetes Education Program

Total Joint Replacement Class

Skagit Regional Health offers a multi-disciplinary, comprehensive education program for adults with diabetes, either newly diagnosed or for those patients needing extra guidance with diabetes control. The program includes: • An introductory one-on-one appointment; • Six hours of group sessions (two three-hour classes) covering the basics of diabetes management; • At least two hours of one-on-one education in nutrition; • Individual appointments to review medication issues related to diabetes self- management, including maximizing the use of insulin, are also available.

This two-hour class helps to prepare patients for their upcoming joint replacement surgery. We have incorporated classroom instruction with procedure-specific therapy. You will learn what to expect before, during, and after joint replacement surgery. Our experienced nurses and therapists will address your concerns and will be available to answer your questions.

Heart Healthy Fitness Program Are you having trouble starting an exercise program or staying motivated? Do you need direction and professional guidance?

Come join us for exercise in a safe and stress-free environment at Skagit Valley Hospital. The Heart Healthy Fitness Program focuses on individual goals and plenty of one-to-one attention.

We work on strength training, balance, and cardiovascular fitness. For questions, cost and class times, call 360-814-8368.

Cardiac Rehabilitation Program Have you had a recent heart attack, bypass surgery, angioplasty, heart valve surgery, or stent placement? We have a program to help you return to your active lifestyle and learn how to reduce your risk factors. A Registered Nurse and Exercise Specialist supervise the classes and provide a safe, friendly atmosphere to ask questions and learn how to pace yourself as you recover. This is a physician-referred program and Medicare and most insurances cover cardiac rehab. For more information call 360-814-8368.

First Aid and CPR Skagit County Medic One offers CPR and First Aid classes for $20 per person, payable in advance. This fee covers the cost of certification cards and materials. For more information call 360-428-3236 or email billc@ skagitems.com.

The class meets the first and third Wednesday of the month from 1 – 3 p.m. at Skagit Valley Hospital in San Juan B. For more information, directions and to register for this class, please call 360-814-2424.

There is no charge for this program.

You are welcome to bring a family member or friend to the class.

The program requires a physician referral so talk to your health care provider. The program is covered by most insurance companies.

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Health & Wellness Screenings

Heart and Vascular Screening: Detect Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), Elevated Cholesterol and More!

The Skagit Regional Heart & Vascular Institute offers this popular community screening on Wednesday mornings for all adults over age 18.

Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) is a common condition that affects approximately 8 million adults in the U.S. The same risk factors associated with heart disease are also linked with PAD. Attend this screening to find out your risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke and learn how to reduce it. The screening includes the following tests and results are immediate: • Ankle brachial pressure index to help detect peripheral artery disease (no caffeine or nicotine for one hour prior).

• Blood pressure.

• Full lipid profile for cholesterol plus glucose requires 12 – 14 hour fast, water and medications only (no alcohol 24 hours prior.) This is a fingerstick test with immediate results.

• Body composition testing to detect elevated body fat.

• Review results with a health care provider.

Call 360-814-2424 or 360-6296481 from Stanwood/Camano Island to schedule an appointment for this screening program. It takes just 40 minutes! The cost is only $35 and screenings are held on Wednesday mornings at Skagit Regional Clinics Cardiology. A physician referral is not necessary, although we ask that you provide the name of a primary care provider, if you have one, so results can be forwarded.

Also see Stroke and Aneurysm Screenings on page 33 for a screening of the aorta and carotid arteries.

Cholesterol/Diabetes and Vitamin D Screenings Screenings are provided by Skagit Valley Hospital in cooperation with Dynacare Skagit Laboratories Full Lipid Profile: 12-14 hour fast required, water and prescribed medications only, no coffee or tea.

No alcohol 24 hours prior. Results include total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides and glucose (blood sugar) levels and are mailed to your home. Fee: $15 (cash or check payable to SVH only).

Vitamin D: This screening can help you identify the level of Vitamin D in your blood. Results are mailed to your home. This screening not recommended for patients on anticonvulsant medication.

Fasting is not required. The cost is $35 (cash or check payable to SVH). No appointment required.

For information call 360-814-2424 or 360-629-6481. No appointment or pre-registration is required.

Jan. 31; March 7 (Thur) 7:30 – 9 a.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital Cascade Room Enter through Kincaid Street

Bone Density Screening Find out if you are at risk for osteoporosis by having a bone density scan. This is a non-invasive, painless scan of one hand. Results are available immediately. Fee $10 (cash or check payable to SVH).

No appointment is required.

Jan. 31; March 7 (Thur) 7:30 – 9 a.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital Cascade Room Enter through Kincaid Street

Skin Cancer Screening Local dermatology providers will conduct visual inspections of skin abnormalities you are concerned about. No charge. Call 360-814-2424 or 360-629-6481 to schedule an appointment.

Jan. 30 (Wed) 1 - 4 p.m.

Provided by Corinne Sayler, PA-C, Skagit Regional ClinicsDermatology Feb. 27 (Wed) 1 - 4 p.m.

Provided by J. Semmes Mickelwait, MD with Advanced Dermatology Skagit Valley Hospital Cascade Room Enter through the Kincaid Street entrance

Photo by Linda Wright

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Skagit regional health

All classes require pre-registration unless specified. Call 360-814-2424 or see inside of back cover.

Vision Screening A certified ophthalmic technician with North Cascade Eye Associates will conduct vision and glaucoma screenings. Bring a contact lens case for storage during the screening.

No charge. Call 360-814-2424 or 360-629-6481 to schedule an appointment.

March 8 (Fri) 1-3 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital Cascade Room Enter through Kincaid Street entrance

Stroke and Aneurysm Screening No need to wait for a special promotion when you can schedule your screening exams year around and have the exams performed using state-of-the-art equipment, conducted by board certified diagnostic technologists and reviewed by a board certified radiologist.

This ultrasound screening test, provided by Skagit Valley Ultrasound Associates, is noninvasive, quick and painless, and will help you identify whether you are at increased risk for stroke and vascular disease and provide information so your physician may begin preventive treatment if necessary.

A physician referral is not necessary, although we ask that you provide the name of a primary care provider, so results can be forwarded. The cost is only $59 for the combined carotid and aorta screening and is payable by cash or check only. This exam is not billable to insurance. Individuals whose screening results suggest the need for further evaluation will be referred to follow-up care with their physician.

To register for an appointment, call 360-428-8208, Monday through Friday, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Screenings are held at Skagit Valley Ultrasound Associates located at 1320 E. Division, Mount Vernon.

Free Blood Pressure Screenings Automated blood pressure machines donated by the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation are available at the following locations: Skagit Regional Clinics - Mount Vernon Skagit Valley Hospital - Kincaid St. Entrance Skagit Regional Clinics - Stanwood

Is it Time for Your Mammogram?

Remember the steps to breast health 1. Do a monthly breast self-exam.

2. If you are 40 or older, have a

mammogram every one or two years.

3. Have a yearly check-up, including a

clinical breast exam.

For a screening mammogram appointment, call 360-428-7270.

The Breast Care Center 1320 East Division Street Mount Vernon 360-428-7270 Open Monday – Thursday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m., Fridays, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

A service provided cooperatively

by Skagit Valley Hospital and Skagit Radiology.

Childbirth & Infant Care

Pregnancy and Childbirth This six-week course for expectant parents includes information about emotional changes during pregnancy, the labor process, breathing techniques, the role of the support person, breastfeeding, and a local pediatrician to discuss your baby’s first three months. The fee is $110. Medical coupons are accepted. Full payment or a copy of your medical coupon is required two weeks before the class begins.

Classes are offered at Skagit Valley Hospital. Pre-registration required.

Call 360-814-2424 or 360-629-6481 to register.

Family Birth Center Tours Free tours of the Skagit Valley Hospital Family Birth Center are offered twice a month. Call 360-8142424 or 360-629-6481 to schedule a tour.

Breastfeeding and Newborn Care In this two and one-half hour program, one of Skagit Valley Hospital’s Family Birth Center’s nurse Lactation Consultants will aid parents in gaining the knowledge necessary to make feeding decisions regarding their new baby. In addition, a local pediatrician will be available to provide information on newborn care – time for questions will be allowed. Pre-registration required. The class fee is $25. Call 360-814-2424 or 360-629-6481 for class dates and times.

Fit4Baby Fit4Baby is an eight-week program designed to strengthen the body for all the changes it will experience during pregnancy. The class includes cardio, strength, flexibility and balance training. Fit4Baby is designed to accommodate all stages of pregnancy and various fitness levels.

Regular activity, such as the Fit4Baby exercise classes, can help reduce many maternal aches and pains, increase energy during pregnancy and may speed the labor, delivery and recovery process.

The class is taught by a certified pre- and post-natal fitness instructor.

Jan. 22 – March 12 (Tue) 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital Family Birth Center Waiting Room $79 Pre-registration required March 26 – May 14 (Tue) 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital Family Birth Center Waiting Room $79 Pre-registration required

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Lactation Services at Skagit Valley Hospital Here at the Family Birth Center, we are dedicated to you and your baby’s health. That is why we provide one of the most inclusive lactation services programs in the region. There are six Internationally Board-Certified Lactation Consultant Registered Nurses available to visit you during your hospital stay and help you experience a successful start to breastfeeding your baby.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding or know someone who is and would like to know more about Lactation Services at Skagit Valley Hospital, please call 360-814BABY and one of our consultants would be happy to talk with you.

Gestational Diabetes Program Gestational diabetes affects approximately 7-14 percent of all pregnant women. Careful control of blood sugar and weight is important to prevent complications for both mother and baby. Skagit Valley Hospital offers a referral-based education program to improve gestational diabetes self-management skills.

Our highly trained and dedicated diabetes education team provides participants with the skills to manage their blood sugar through

healthy eating, stress management, increased activity, and blood glucose monitoring. The program offers individual nutrition therapy appointments. For more information please contact our Diabetes Education Program at 360-814-2184.

Child Safety Seat Checks Certified child safety seat technicians will assess your seat for age- and size-appropriateness, proper installation and use, recalls, and visible damage.

This screening is highly recommended for parents-to-be, prior to the birth of your new baby, to learn how to safely install and use your car seat.

Jan. 17; Feb. 21; March 21 (Thur) 1 - 3 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital at main entrance covered area Mount Vernon

Kidney Dialysis Education

Kidney Failure Treatment Options This Skagit Valley Kidney Center program is for people with reduced kidney function who would like to explore treatment options for renal replacement therapy. Patients, families, and caregivers will receive information about treatment options, diet, health maintenance, financial, and social concerns.

This introductory session helps reduce many anxieties a person may have related to the “unknown.” The session provides an opportunity for patients to make more informed choices. We have a recurring education class from 1:30-3:30 p.m., the third Thursday of every month. For more information and registration, call 360-416-5717.

Co-sponsored by Skagit Safe Kids.

Pre-registration is not required. Call Bill Craig at 360-428-3236 for more information regarding additional dates and times.

If you are interested in learning how to install car seats and help parents install their car seats properly, call Bill Craig, Skagit County Medic One at 360-428-3236 or via e-mail at billc@skagitems.com.

Photo by Linda Wright

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All classes require pre-registration unless specified. Call 360-814-2424 or see inside of back cover.

Cancer Support Services All programs are provided for cancer patients and survivors and are free of charge. For additional information on any of these services or events please contact Cancer Care Community Outreach at 360-8148287.

Look Good, Feel Better Cancer can rob a woman of her energy, appetite and strength. But it doesn’t have to take away her selfconfidence. This program teaches beauty techniques to women in active treatment or those who are about to start treatment. It helps them combat the appearance-related side effects of treatment.

The Look Good, Feel Better sessions are led by trained, volunteer cosmetologists who teach women how to cope with skin changes and hair loss using cosmetics and skin care products donated by the cosmetic industry. Women also learn ways to disguise hair loss with wigs, scarves, and other accessories.

Pre-registration is required; please call 360-814-8287.

Fourth Monday of each month 1 - 3 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital Regional Cancer Care Center Safeway Conference Room (third Floor)

Women’s Cancer Support Group Second Monday of each month from 5 – 6:30 p.m. in the Safeway Conference Room (third floor) at the Regional Cancer Care Center.

This group is for women who are undergoing treatment for, or have experienced ANY type of cancer.

This group was previously limited to patients/survivors with breast and/ or gynecological cancers. We are pleased to provide this supportive environment to a larger group of patients and survivors. This is an open group and no RSVP is required.

Facilitated by Cyndy Adams, Oncology Social Worker, with

frequent guest speakers arranged.

Call 360-814-8255 for additional information.

Art and Healing Group First and third Mondays of each month, 2 – 4 p.m. in the Safeway Conference Room (third floor) at the Regional Cancer Care Center. Our knowledgeable instructor Margaret Carpenter Arnett, BSN, ATR, has been doing art therapy with cancer patients for more than 20 years.

Creating art can promote healing by reducing anxiety and stress and improving emotional well-being.

It is a great opportunity to process and integrate the challenges of serious illness and treatment. Please note that artistic “skills” are not required! Come and join this fun and welcoming group. For more information call 360-814-8287.

Grief Support Services Hospice of the Northwest provides support to anyone in our communities coping with grief and loss after the death of a loved one.

Call our Bereavement Program for information and referrals, attend a free grief support group, or borrow materials from our Resource Center.

For more information and to receive a current grief group schedule, please phone 360-814-5589 or 360814-5550.

Hospice of the Northwest Resource Center: A free lending library open to the community Books and other materials are available for adults, teens, and children. Topics include caregiving, coping with disease, end of life concerns, grief and loss, and inspiration for challenging times.

Visitors will find a comfortable place to sit and read, browse, or find materials to check out.

The Resource Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the lobby of the Hospice office at 819 South 13th Street in Mount Vernon and after hours by appointment. A member of the hospice team can answer questions or help you find what you need.

For information call Hospice of the Northwest’s Bereavement Program at 360-814-5589.

In-Service Education For grief and loss presentations for your organization or employees, contact the Hospice of the Northwest Bereavement Coordinator at 360-814-5589. For clinical education or presentations for your organization or employees, contact the Hospice of the Northwest Clinical Liaison at 360-814-5550.

Hospice Program Seeks Volunteers A unique and meaningful volunteer opportunity is available through Hospice of the Northwest, serving Skagit, Island, San Juan and north Snohomish counties.

Volunteers offer support and companionship to individuals with a life expectancy of six months or less. They improve the quality of life and provide respite at a time when it matters most. To learn more, please contact Julie Pryor Barr, Community Liaison at 360-814-5588 or jbarr@ hospicenw.org.

Community Education Want to learn more about hospice services and what they might mean for you and your family? Hospice of the Northwest staff is available to give educational presentations to community groups. For more information, please call 360-8145550.

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Interested in helping Hospice of the Northwest Foundation?

The Hospice of the Northwest Foundation is currently accepting applications to become a volunteer.

This group works to raise funds to support hospice programs and to educate the community about available services. The goal of the Foundation is to ensure that everyone who wants or needs hospice care receives services regardless of ability to pay. For information, call the Foundation office at 360-814-5702.

Mental Health

Mental Health Support Group

NAMI Skagit Open Group meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month from 7 – 9 p.m. in the Shuksan Room at Skagit Valley Hospital. Family members and those living with mental illness are welcome. For more information contact Brandon at 360-421-5784 or Marti at 360-770-5666.

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Skagit regional health

Skagit Valley REACH Center

Family-to-Family Education Program

For more support, adults living with a mental illness may dropin at the Skagit Valley REACH Center anytime, Monday through Saturday between 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. at 1413 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. There are support groups, classes, hobby time, computers, and always someone to talk to and keep company with. For more information call 360-873-8635.

Free 12-week course for families of adults with mental illness or a brain disorder. The course focuses on helping family members understand the major mental illnesses and maintain their own well-being while providing needed support to their ill family members.

This program is provided by NAMI Skagit, an affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Call Marti at 360-770-5666 or Judy at 360-424-5802 for next class dates or more information. Space is limited; reservations being taken now for next class beginning February 2013.

NAMI Basics Education Program A free six-week class for parents or primary caregivers of a child or teen with mental illness or a brain disorder such as ADHD, bipolar and others. The course helps families with communication, coping, schools and education needs, rehabilitation, recovery, and advocacy. NAMI Skagit provides this program. Call Marti at 360-770-5666 for more information about next class dates and to register. Space is limited.

Peer-to-Peer Education Program Free nine-week class for adults with mental illness or brain disorders to help them better understand their illness and maintain and improve their recovery. NAMI Skagit provides this program. Call Natasha at 360856-0267 for more information and about next class dates and to register. Space is limited.

Photo by Linda Wright

Support Groups Call 360-814-2424 or 360-6296481 for current Skagit County Support Group information.

Ostomy Support Group Second Tuesday of each month from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. in the Sauk Room at Skagit Valley Hospital. Call Cathy Schaeffer at 360-814-2600 for more information.

Community News & Resources Speakers Bureau

Need an interesting presentation for your club or organization? Skagit Regional Health’s Speakers Bureau provides speakers on a number of health care related topics, many at no cost. For more information on speaker topics or to schedule a presentation, call Val at 360-8142424.

Volunteer Services at Skagit Regional Health Some of the volunteer opportunities at Skagit Regional Health include: Information Desks A wide variety of locations are available.

Pianists If you are an accomplished pianist who would like to share your talent for others to enjoy, call 360-814-2142.

Junior Medical Volunteers The Junior Medical Volunteer program is for students age 15-18.

For Students and Job Seekers The number of positions are limited so prospective volunteers should apply at least a year in advance of any school deadlines that may be applicable. High school students seeking course or club credit should apply and begin volunteering before their senior year.

Guilds and Auxiliaries Many volunteers choose to serve through membership in one of our volunteer service and fund-raising groups including the Gail Edward Iverson Circle of Friends, Grace Cochrum Guild, J.E.M. Guild, SVH Auxiliary and SVH Guild.

Other Volunteer Department Services: Hospital and Clinic Tours Tours of our facility for groups and individuals are available.

Reservations are required. Call 360814-2142 to schedule a tour.

Gift Shop The gift shop is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the main lobby. All proceeds from the Gift Shop are returned back to help Skagit Regional Health in areas of need.

Contact Us To inquire about volunteering or request services, please contact Steve Schultz at 360-814-2142 or contact our main information desk at 360814-5059.

Watch HealthQuest on Cable-Access Television Station 10 If you are a Comcast cable subscriber in Skagit County, be sure to tune in to channel 10 to watch HealthQuest TV. The show airs at 11:30 a.m., 4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. every day.

This half-hour show features a new guest each week showcasing our local providers and health care professionals on a variety of topics ranging from latest treatment options for health disease and cancer care to prevention topics highlighting local walking trails and cooking shows. You can also view our HealthQuest shows online at www.youtube.com/ skagitvalleyhospital.

Visit us at YouTube.com You can watch HealthQuest shows to learn about a variety of health topics from local physicians, find out about hospital services and more on our YouTube.com channel.

Visit us at www.youtube.com/ skagitvalleyhospital

Need a Physician?

Call our free Physician Referral Line at 360-848-5555 or 360-6295850 from Stanwood or Camano Island. The Physician Referral Line is open weekdays between 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

For easy access to community services dial 2-1-1 2-1-1 is a free, easy-to-remember phone number that connects people to what they need, whether that means receiving help, or offering it through volunteer time or donations.

By dialing 2-1-1, people will reach a trained information specialist who can help determine the service they need, and refer them to the most appropriate resource among the full range of public and private programs available.

Important! The 2-1-1 call line will be open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 2-1-1 is not a crisis line. If the need can’t wait until the next business day, please call the CARE Crisis Line at 800-584-3578.

In the event of a life-threatening emergency or a crime in progress, always call 911.

If you have difficulty reaching 2-11, call 800-223-8145 instead.

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Board of Commissioners Public Hospital District No. 1

James Hobbs, Sr.

Pattie Lewis

Jeff Miller

Clark Todd

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Skagit regional health

Balisa Koetje

Bruce Lisser

Stan Olson

partner Seeking a

A Message to Our Community

Partnerships and consolidations among health care systems represent a trend that is playing out across the country and is witnessed in our local region of the Northwest. The healthcare systems are forming alliances to combine strengths, focus on improving patient care, access additional capital and reduce the cost of healthcare through the streamlining of services.

Skagit Regional Health is taking a strong leadership role in our region to seek a larger hospital system partner to help us survive the changes in healthcare. Our search builds on the principle of strengthening the fine hospital and health delivery system we have built in the valley. We want our system to grow and prosper in the valley for many years to come, and a partnership is the security we need.

We have invited Island Hospital in Anacortes and Cascade Valley Hospital in Arlington to join us in this search. This will enable both those hospitals, whose service areas overlap ours, to remain in a similar position of strength.

Together, we have recently sent out a Request for Proposal (RFP) to several large regional healthcare systems that will provide a range of integration proposals. We will be carefully studying their responses and sharing them with the public for your input in the near future.

Skagit Regional Health is in a financially stable position and doing extremely well in meeting all national quality standards.

However, as a stand-alone hospital we will be unable in the future to provide the financial resources and expertise necessary to succeed in our nation’s fast changing healthcare environment. The

Boards of Commissioners of the three public district hospitals believe that embracing a partnership with a larger system will provide us a robust path to continue to build on our rich tradition of outstanding care. It is our vision that this new alignment will help address access to capital to invest in advanced specialties, grow market share, assist in recruiting medical staff and reduce operating cost.

There are many factors in play, which present significant challenges to our future, including: • Lower reimbursements from Medicare, Medicaid and other insurers.

• Preparations for the addition of millions of currently uninsured patients to new government programs because of health care reform.

• Investing in information technology to connect our patients and providers with health care information.

• Consolidation of other, competing large systems in Western Washington that will ultimately direct some our patients to other providers.

Of major emphasis to Skagit Regional Health’s Board of Commissioners, as we have proceeded through this process, is the need to retain local control.

Our community has always shown strong support of Skagit Valley Hospital and our local physicians.

Each of us wants to ensure that we maintain a strong voice in the long-term access to the highest quality care for the health of our communities.

Services

Skagit Regional Clinics provides comprehensive health care for patients of all ages through a network of health care facilities located in Skagit, north Snohomish and Island counties. More than 20 medical specialties are available for complete care, close to home.

10 locations 20 specialties, more than 100 providers Anacortes

Cardiology Address: 307 S. 13th Street, Suite 300 Phone: 360-336-9757

Cardiology Address: 2511 M Avenue, Suite D Phone: 360-293-0308 Urology Address: 1213 24th Street, Suite 600 Phone: 360-293-2173

Urology Address: 1311 E. Division Street Phone: 360-424-7991 Riverbend Opening Spring 2014

Camano Island

Oak Harbor

Family Medicine Address: 127 N. East Camano Drive Phone: 360-387-5398

Dermatology Address: 275 SE Cabot Drive (Whidbey Community Physicians suite) Phone: 360-814-6200

Mount Vernon

Sedro-Woolley

Primary and specialty care Address: 1990 Hospital Drive Phone: 360-856-4222 • Cardiology • Internal Medicine • Optometry • Pediatrics • Pharmacy

Stanwood

Primary and specialty care Address: 9631 269th Street NW Phone: 360-629-1600

Primary and specialty care Address: 1400 E. Kincaid Street Phone: 360-428-2500

HealthQuest

Class Registration

Please fill out this form and include your check or charge card number along with the requested information (use one copy for each participant - feel free to duplicate this form or register on our Web site, www.skagitvalleyhospital.org/events.)

Class or Screening

Date

Fee

Total amount enclosed: Name:________________________________________________________________________ Address:______________________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip Code:____________________________________________________________ Day Phone:___________________________ Home Phone:_______________________________ E-mail address:________________________________________________________________

Type of Payment (Please do not send cash) Check (make checks payable to SVH-HealthQuest) Mastercard

VISA

Credit Card Number: ____________________________________

Expiration Date:________________________ Signature: ____________________________________

Find our refund policy online at: www.skagitvalleyhospital.org/events

Mail

HealthQuest

Skagit Valley Hospital P.O. Box 1376 Mount Vernon, WA 98273

Phone

360-814-2424 or 360-629-6481

Internet

www.skagitvalleyhospital.org/events

Fax

360-814-8222 Complete this form and fax it to the number above.

Questions?

Call Skagit Valley Hospital at 360-814-2424, from Stanwood and Camano Island call 360-629-6481 or for hearing impaired, please call TTY 360-814-2219 HealthQuest Winter 2013

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PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID SAM INC

P.O. Box 1376 Mount Vernon, WA 98273-1376 Sponsored by Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation

ECRWSS RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMER