Fall 2017 HealthQuest Magazine

HealthQuest FA L L 2 017

A publication of

Skagit Regional Health

JoAnn’s story Breast cancer survivor finds support, compassion in her journey 12

Preventing falls

How to prepare yourself and your home 8

Gamechanger New equipment opens door to new joint procedure

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Welcoming new trustees; celebrating a successful ParTee

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SKAGIT VALLEY HOSPITAL FOUNDATION I N PA R T N E R S H I P W I T H

ASSOCIATED PETROLEUM PRODUCTS A N D PEOPLES BANK P R E S E N T T H E 2 017

ABOVE: Skagit Regional Health Cardiologist Sanjeev Vaderah, MD confers with Hospitalist and Family Practice provider Karen Myren, MD of Whitehorse Family Medicine at Cascade Valley Hospital, where additional cardiology services are now offered.

GALA ANDAUCTION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24

HERITAGE BANK GALA SPONSOR WHIDBEY COFFEE LIVE AUCTION SPONSOR

BREAKFAST AT THE NORTH POLE SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25 SPONSORED BY

THOMAS CUISINE MANAGEMENT

FAMILY FESTIVAL DAYS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25 12:30 - 4:30 p.m.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

SKAGIT CENTER - CHRIST THE KING 1000 Fountain Street • I-5 Exit 231 Burlington, WA

FOR information and tickets: SkagitFestivalofTrees.org or call 360-814-5747

Proceeds benefit Surgical Services at Skagit Valley Hospital.

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Embracing change to prepare for the future Several developments in the past year demonstrate how Skagit Regional Health is evolving and changing to meet the health care needs of the region now and well into the future.

Just more than a year ago, Cascade Valley Hospital in Arlington and five related clinics became part of Skagit Regional Health. Our system now includes two hospitals and 19 clinics across three counties and 10 communities. Coming together follows the trend in our state and nation for health care systems to join forces to bolster financial strength and, most importantly, to continue and expand availability and access to health care services.

Since integration in June 2016, we have added 24-hour hospitalist coverage at Cascade Valley Hospital, invested in new equipment at Cascade, started offering additional cardiology services at the south campus and are looking to recruit to add to our orthopedic practice in Arlington.

Meanwhile, in Mount Vernon, we have added new total hip replacement services (see page 4), opened a new clinic space for

our residents to practice and are expanding specialties with new providers in endocrinology and nephrology.

In keeping with a trend for technology, both hospitals and all 19 clinics will go live with a new Electronic Health Record on Oct. 1.

See article on page 10. This is a huge project that involves every staff member and provider. The new system will enhance patient care by improving efficiency, provider access to records and also gives patients the opportunity to see their own records through a powerful new patient portal called MyChart. Providers and patients alike are pushing this trend to better use technology to improve health care.

A growing system, advancing technology and expanding services into the community are all positive indicators for Skagit Regional Health’s continuing efforts to provide excellence in health care.

Mike Liepman President and Chief Executive Officer

HealthQuest

FALL 2017 | VOLUME 14 | ISSUE 3

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

For additional copies of HealthQuest or more information, contact Outreach and Media Coordinator Meggan Carrigg Davidson at 360-814-2325 or go to our Web site at www.skagitregionalhealth.org.

Game changer

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Preventing falls

8

New equipment opens door to anterior hip procedure

Welcoming new trustees; celebrating a successful ParTee

How to prepare yourself and your home

Epic

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New electronic health record launches in October

JoAnn’s story

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30

HealthQuest Classes

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Board of Commissioners COVER PHOTO Orthopedic Surgeons Michael Picco, DO and Christopher Sheu, MD, are offering anterior hip procedures with the aid of a new surgical table.

Photo by Meggan Carrigg Davidson

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Breast cancer survivor finds support, compassion in her journey

New providers

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Benson Family Medicine, 10 residents join Skagit Regional Health

Fall 2017

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Gamec ABOVE: The orthopedics team at Skagit Regional Health includes Surgeon Michael Picco, DO, Surgical Technician, Candace Larson, Surgeon Christopher Sheu, MD, Kay O’Neill, PA-C and Surgical Technician, Brittany Hegy.

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changer

Anterior approach hip procedure means faster recovery, quicker return to life’s activities Patients have a new option for hip replacement surgery at Skagit Regional Health with the arrival of a new piece of equipment and the commitment of two highly trained orthopedic surgeons to get patients back in action.

With advancements in surgical procedures and hip implants, replacement surgery is no longer reserved only for patients over 60 years old, and is found to be successful in younger patients.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 330,000 total hip replacements are performed annually in the United States.

The latest approach is called the anterior hip replacement and brings with it several benefits: Faster recovery time, less time spent in the hospital after surgery, less potential for limping long term after surgery, and a quicker return to work and normal activities.

“Hip replacement is a great procedure. It’s one of the most efficacious procedures we have in medicine,” said Michael Picco, DO, who learned the anterior hip procedure and other replacement approaches in residency. “We’re solving a problem and it works, with a low complication rate and people have great outcomes. I want patients to stay healthy and keep exercising.”

The anterior approach means the surgeon comes in from the front of the hip and avoids cutting major muscles, instead working between the muscles. This difference from the posterior and lateral methods, brings

a faster recovery, reduces the hospital stay by one to two days post-surgery and allows a return to work in six weeks, rather than three months.

In addition, the anterior approach dramatically reduces the possibility of hip dislocation after surgery and results in less limping.

“The long-term results are very similar among the approaches,” Dr. Picco said. “That said, if a patient is a good candidate for a direct anterior hip procedure, I would say go with that.”

Christopher Sheu, MD, who is fellowship trained in sports medicine and arthroscopy, is trained in all hip replacement approaches.

Moving forward with anterior hip replacements completes the full continuum of orthopedic care at Skagit Regional Health and is made possible by the arrival of a Hana® surgical table at Skagit Valley Hospital, funded by the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation.

“The Hana® table is a game changer for us,” Dr. Sheu said.

“There is a pretty big buzz about this equipment. It allows us to perform the anterior approach and completes our program of comprehensive orthopedic care.”

The table is designed to allow hyperextension and rotation of the hip to allow access to the joint without detaching muscles, so the muscles do not need to heal after surgery. The table is also used for fracture care and trauma.

Dr. Sheu also has advanced training to use the Hana® table for

outpatient hip arthroscopy, which may be an option for younger to middle-aged patients.

“Hip scopes involve small incisions, they are minimally invasive, involve less pain and a faster recovery,” Dr. Sheu said. “We can clean out the joint and save the patient from having a more invasive procedure like hip replacement.”

For more information about orthopedics services, call 360-814-6800 in Mount Vernon and 360-435-6641 in Arlington.

Doc Talk:

See page 31 for details on an upcoming public presentation by Orthopedic Surgeon, Christopher Sheu, MD.

Fall 2017

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Surgeons receive special training to perform

anterior hip procedures Skagit Regional Clinics Orthopedics and Sports Medicine has a team of five orthopedic surgeons and four physician assistants providing services ranging from arthroscopic procedures, hand and carpal tunnel surgeries and total joint replacements. Learn more about Drs. Christopher Sheu and Michael Picco who are trained to offer several total hip procedures, including the less invasive anterior approach: Christopher Sheu, MD:

Dr. Sheu received his medical degree at George Washington University School of Medicine in Washington, D.C.; completed a residency at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Houston; and performed a Sports Medicine and Arthroscopy Fellowship at Southern California Orthopaedic Institute in Los Angeles.

Dr. Sheu specializes in comprehensive, minimally invasive arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery of the hip, shoulder, knee and ankle, including ligament reconstruction, tendon repair, joint replacement, fracture care and sports medicine in patients of all ages.

An active person who enjoys sports including basketball, tennis, swimming, golf and hiking, he is also a regular at the gym.

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“I know what it’s like to suffer an injury and be out of sports for a while.

People want to be back in action. It’s vital to their happiness,” Dr. Sheu said. “I enjoy getting people back to what they love to do and getting back to their normal level of activity with a good outcome.”

Michael Picco, DO: Dr. Picco received his medical degree at Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Vallejo, California. He completed an internship and residency at Genesys Regional Medical Center in Grand Blanc, Michigan.

Dr. Picco’s special interests include joint replacement, particularly of the hip and knee, fracture care, and treating injuries of the shoulder or rotator cuff.

Dr. Picco said he finds joint replacement to be a rewarding experience as patients return to an active, pain-free life.

“People expect a good result. People don’t necessarily want to put this off until they can’t walk any more, when it’s possible to be healthy and active,” Dr. Picco said.

How do you know if it’s time for a hip replacement?

“It’s time for a hip replacement when a patient can’t do the normal things in their life, are worried their leg will give way and they will fall, or they can’t sleep at night due to pain,” said Michael Picco, DO. “As patients develop arthritis and increasing hip pain, they often move through a progression of treatments before considering surgery including anti-inflammatory medications, injections, physical therapy, and arthroscopy,” said Christopher Sheu, MD. Talk to your provider to make sure you are a candidate for hip replacement. The orthopedic surgeons note that patients must have a Body Mass Index of 40 or less; have good diabetes control with an A1C level of no more than 7.5 or 8; and the selection of which surgical approach is used will depend on the patient’s anatomy including the shape of the femur and patient size.

Preparing to go home from the hospital is also essential. The doctors note that patients need help at home for at least a week, will need an assistive device, first a walker, then a cane, for at least a month, and special arrangements may need to be made for a home with stairs.

Skagit Regional Health offers a Total Joint Class to assist patients in preparing for before and after their hospital stay.

See Page 29 for details on the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation’s Surgical Services campaign.

Five injury prevention tips As fall sports get into full swing, it is important for athletes to take steps to remain healthy all season long and not get side-lined by injury. Here are five tips from local health care professionals to help athletes reduce risk of injury.

WARM UP. Walking, jogging and stretching before beginning an activity is a good way to loosen up your body to prepare for play.

FOCUS ON PROPER TECHNIQUE. Using proper technique will help avoid injuries, said Dr. Christopher Sheu, orthopedic surgeon. Coaches can help ensure that athletes are using good technique to avoid injury and can emphasize quality movements over quantity, recommended physical therapist David Bond, PT, DPT.

USE APPROPRIATE SAFETY EQUIPMENT. “Use sport-specific helmets, mouth guards, personal flotation devices (PFDs) for water sports, and pads, braces, gloves, and footwear as appropriate to reduce your risk of injury,” said Bond. Coaches and trainers can help parents determine what safety equipment is needed for specific sports.

CROSS TRAIN. If you are a basketball or football player, incorporate other activities into your workout routine, such as running, swimming or biking to train all sets of muscles, suggested Dr. Roger Lee, a Family Medicine provider with special interest in sports medicine.

for athletes Young athletes, in particular, should not overspecialize in a single activity. Kids who play one sport all year round have increased chance of developing overuse injuries.

Playing multiple sports during the year doesn’t mean that your child will fall behind in his or her favorite sport. In fact, Dr. Lee noted that research has shown that kids do not develop elite skill sets until high school. When kids are young, involvement in a variety of sports can help reduce both overuse injuries and burn out.

Meet our Experts

Roger Lee, MD is a family medicine physician and sports medicine specialist at Skagit Regional Clinics – Sedro-Woolley. He is a graduate of the University of Texas Medical Branch in Houston, completed family medicine residency at Kansas University Medical Center, a Primary Care Sports Medicine Fellowship at Southern Illinois University. Dr. Lee treats people of all ages with various musculoskeletal injuries in both athletes and non-athletes. He also specializes in concussion management, ultrasound guided procedures and diagnostic exams. Family Medicine and Sports Medicine appointments with Dr. Lee are available in Sedro-Woolley by calling 360-856-4141.

DON’T PLAY THROUGH PAIN – GET HELP! LISTEN TO YOUR BODY. If you are in pain, something is wrong. Rest and see if the pain goes away. If pain persists, see your health care provider, said Dr. Lee. Playing through pain can make the injury worse.

“Impairments in balance, awareness of body position, power, and performance can last longer than symptoms like pain and swelling,” said Bond. If you have had an injury, it is important to seek evaluation and treatment.

“A physical therapist can help you safely return to sport and activity at a higher level of performance and with less risk for re-injury or a new injury due to non-optimal movement,” Bond said.

David Bond, PT, DPT is a physical therapist at Skagit Valley Hospital. He earned his doctorate in physical therapy at the University of Washington. As a PT, his passion is helping people move better in order to be more fully themselves.

Bond’s clinical interests include orthopedic, manual, and sports therapy, bridging the gap between rehabilitating disability and improving performance.

He also enjoys working with people who live with chronic pain. Outpatient physical therapy appointments are available at Skagit Valley Hospital’s Rehabilitation Department by calling 360-814-2184.

Christopher Sheu, MD, see page 6 Fall 2017

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Falls pre Risk factors for falls: • Two or more falls in the last 12 months

• Sensory problems especially in your feet/ankles • Side effects of certain medications

• Difficulty with walking • Multiple medications • Impaired vision • Confusion

Four things you can do to prevent falls and stay independent: • Begin an exercise program to improve your leg strength and balance • Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your medicines • Get annual eye check-ups and update your eyeglasses • Make your home safer by: - Removing clutter and tripping hazards such as throw rugs - Putting railings on all stairs - Add grab bars in the bathroom - Having good lighting, especially on stairs - Keep stairs, railings, carpets in good repair

RIGHT: Physical Therapist Bree Corbin works with Zelma Nelson.

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revention

Falls are the number one mechanism of injury for patients arriving at the Emergency Room at Skagit Valley Hospital and Cascade Valley Hospital.

At Skagit, 46 percent of trauma cases are the result of falls and the number is 54 percent at Cascade. Nationwide, an older adult is seen in an emergency department for a fall-related injury every 11 seconds as one out of five falls results in a serious injury, including broken bones or head injuries, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

Preventing falls by exercising, making your home safe, reviewing medications, checking your vision and other efforts can help avoid injuries and a trip to the ER. As people age, however, they may be reluctant to acknowledge changes in balance, vision or strength that may result in a fall.

“People have to be honest with themselves as they have a loss of balance or lose control,” said Physical Therapist Bree Corbin who works with outpatients at Skagit Valley Hospital. “Ask ‘did you ever end up in a place you didn’t intend to be?’ ”

The CDC has a brief screen for fall risk using these three questions:

• Have you fallen in the past year?

• Do you feel unsteady when standing or walking?

• Do you worry about falling?

A fear of falling – or falling again – may also lead people to be less physically active. “The worst thing to do is to be sedentary,” Bree Corbin said.

Physical Therapy is a safe place for those who have been injured in a fall to practice techniques to regain strength, mobility and balance.

“A lot of what we do is encourage or reinforce independence in an environment that is safe,” said Physical Therapist Kyle Corbin who works with inpatients at Skagit Valley Hospital. “The potential is always there to improve balance and gain your confidence back. Our goal is to get patients back to their norm and what they could do before.”

Patient Zelma Nelson, who has taken two falls, expressed appreciation for the assistance from Bree Corbin in physical therapy.

“It’s been great,” she said. “I am feeling much better.”

Three systems in the body are involved in balance: Vision, vestibular (parts of the inner ear and brain) and sensation in the feet. Physical therapists help find where the patient’s deficits are in these systems to set up a program of exercise to train these systems to respond more quickly to avoid falls.

“We need all three to stay balanced,” Bree Corbin said.

“Walking is big. It sounds so simple, but walking is triggering all three balance systems to work.”

The Corbins appreciate the opportunity to work with caregivers and family members who can also help encourage patients to get moving.

“I like to have family members involved as much as possible,” said Kyle Corbin. “The potential is so much better for the individual when they have support and encouragement.”

For more information, call the Skagit Valley Hospital Rehabilitation Center at 360814-2184.

For a complete checklist for home fall prevention, go to www. cdc.gov/steadi/pdf/check_for_safety_ brochure-a.pdf.

Fall 2017

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Electronic Health Record to launch in October

By Joshua Griggs, MD • Chief Medical Information Officer On October 1, 2017, Skagit Regional Health (SRH) will implement a state-of-the-art Electronic Health Record (EHR) called Epic across the entire health system after nearly two years of preparation.

Though SRH has been using EHRs for several years now, the Epic EHR platform will unify what is currently four different systems into a single EHR system serving Skagit Valley Hospital, Cascade Valley Hospital, 19 satellite clinics, and three retail pharmacies across three counties.

Epic, based in Verona, Wisconsin, is now used by more than half of doctors practicing in the United States, and the vast majority of hospitals in the Puget Sound region.

So, what is an EHR? EHRs, often called “the nervous system for the hospital,” have been in existence for more than three decades. These computer software programs seek to replace the now antiquated paper chart we have been used to seeing doctors carrying around with a digital version.

EHRs bring with them a number of enhancements to patient care, from research to patient safety, efficiency, and improved access to care, as well as tools to assist doctors in making decisions. They help ensure that the

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doctors’ orders are legible and carried out in the way the doctor intended.

Even more, with Epic, SRH patients will have a single chart, whether seeing their primary care provider or specialist, and this same chart will follow them should they require care in the emergency department or hospital.

Epic is a suite of several different applications which all work together to form a unified system affecting all aspects of a patient’s care. For example, in the Emergency Room, nurses and providers will use an application called ASAP which is specifically designed to function in that fast-paced environment.

By contrast, surgeons and anesthesiologists will have their own specialized tool called OptTime which is used to guarantee that the important sequence of interventions occur for optimal patient care. Yet, the surgeons and the Emergency Room providers can all access the patient’s data in a seamless manner.

Patients will also be able to interact with Epic in ways that will enhance their connections to their doctors and to SRH. They will be able to use their smart phones and the internet to access a patient portal called MyChart to schedule

appointments, request medication refills, ask their providers questions, pay their bills and view their own health information. This increased level of patient engagement will allow patients to take more control over their own health care.

The Epic EHR project is one of the largest projects ever undertaken by SRH. Epic will help ensure that the patients receiving care at SRH have the most technically advanced care possible and will also aid in making sure the organization, staff and providers stay current with the rapid advancements in medical care we are experiencing across the nation.

Epic EHR Implementation The Benefits to Patients Epic creates One Patient, One Record across the entire Skagit Regional Health system of two hospitals and 19 clinics. Epic also integrates with a number of local clinic locations in the community.

This means: • Skagit Regional Health’s care team always has your most current health record information at their fingertips • Patients can move seamlessly between outpatient clinics and inpatient hospitals, always connected to their health information • Patients can confirm their information, rather than repeating it at multiple care points • Patients will receive combined bills and statements that are easier to read, for all services provided across the system

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The new Patient Portal, MyChart, provides new and improved tools available on the phone, computer or tablet. This means: • Lab results are delivered to a secure mobile app, as soon as they are ready • Patients can easily manage accounts on behalf of a family member – a child, a parent or a partner • Patients can easily request prescription refills, wherever they are • Patients can pay bills online, quickly and securely

because health is 24/7 • Message with your provider • Refill prescriptions • Review visit notes • Manage family accounts with one login

• View lab results quickly • Mobile accessible, wherever you are!

• Fill out check-in forms ahead of time

Anytime-anywhere connectivity to your health information www.skagitregionalhealth.org/MyChart

Fall 2017

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A HEALING

HORIZON

Cancer survivor finds support, compassion in her journey For the last hour of her treatment, JoAnn Wright turned her chair around to face out the window. The chemotherapy chairs were stationed behind her in the open floor plan of the Skagit Regional Health Regional Cancer Care Center. She preferred the view of the healing garden, with its pathways, water features and embracing stone sculpture.

After having undergone a double mastectomy, she faced 12 more weeks of chemotherapy treatments. And yet, as she scanned the January garden for signs of life, of spring, her fear was soothed by a calm sky and the promise of renewed life.

On November 3, 2016, Wright was diagnosed with breast cancer. After detecting a lump in her breast, she brought her findings to the attention of an urgent care doctor and then her family physician. This type of cancer was aggressive and her treatment began immediately. Five years before her breast cancer diagnosis, Wright penned a story she’d later share at a bilingual women’s conference through a local church group while undergoing her chemotherapy treatments. The gathering had an apt title, “Women Under the Rain,” and the inspirational story she read to

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the women in the audience, and her transparency in so openly sharing her cancer journey with others, was based on her long-held belief that every person is born into a guided journey.

Now 74 years old, Wright shared, “We’re all prepared with a purpose.

I had no idea what I was going to go through and how cancer treatment would parallel the story I’d written years ago,” she recalled. “Even though we go through difficult things and hard times and uncomfortable moments, it’s in order that one day we’ll be equipped to do what God wants us to.”

According to Wright’s Patient Navigator Katie Anderson, patients like Wright are gifted with a vulnerable courage and the willingness to let others help when help is most needed.

“As with all patients,” Anderson said, “I received a referral from her provider to be seen here at The Breast Institute. I couldn’t believe how positive she was through everything.

From our very first conversation, she had a fighting spirit that was so positive, it was contagious.”

That same positivity combined with other essential ingredients to form Wright’s treatment plan. Open

communication was paramount.

Within her own family and through the use of social media, Wright kept loved ones informed. She was also able to communicate with her providers, and, in this case, directly with Anderson, her Patient Navigator.

Patients at The Breast Institute, as well as all patients at the Regional Cancer Care Center, have access to support services including patient navigators, social workers, nutritionists, insurance specialists, financial advocates, and chaplains, who can provide spiritual support.

Over the course of her seven months of treatment, Wright was able to use Skagit Regional Health’s comprehensive cancer care program and diverse resources designed to lessen the burden of appointments and arrangements. If there was something that needed to be done, a clarification or question, Wright had only to call Anderson.

“If I needed help I could call her and she would jump in there and make sure whatever needed to be done was done,” Wright explained.

Anderson is the first point of contact for many, after a patient’s initial referral and helps direct breast cancer

SCAN ME

Mammograms save lives!

Early detection is key. October is breast cancer awareness month. To make an appointment for a mammogram: • In Mount Vernon, call the Breast Care Center in Mount Vernon at 360-428-7275 or 1-888-371-2812.

LEFT: JoAnn Wright and her daughter Joy Caldwell share a hug. Joy served as an advocate and accompanied her mother during JoAnn’s cancer journey.

patients throughout their treatment.

“We have a whole team of people who are ready to help, and I really feel that at times our services are underutilized because patients are afraid to ask,” Anderson said.

Any hesitations or questions Wright had during her cancer journey were represented by her daughter, Joy Caldwell. Having worked in the medical field, Caldwell accompanied her mother to her first few months of appointments and kept extensive notes. Caldwell said she felt that the hospital’s staff and physicians welcomed her “100 percent,” throughout her mother’s treatment and were receptive to the support role she assumed.

“My mom and I would talk a lot before and after

appointments, to make sure she was really understanding what they [the physicians] were saying,” Caldwell said.

According to Anderson, Caldwell has been Wright’s best advocate.

“As a patient, it’s so overwhelming to hear all this information, and her daughter was able to sit there, not only as her daughter and her support system, but as an advocate who was able to ask some of the hard questions and some of the questions JoAnn herself might not have thought to ask,” Anderson said.

There are many questions that need answering within cancer treatment. The mark of a successful cancer treatment plan results in a cancer-free body where reoccurrence has been thoroughly mitigated and the patient can reclaim a horizon of health.

“Patients are given the best chance of cure when their care is individualized and contemporaneously approached, with a multidisciplinary, specialized group of providers. As physicians, there is nothing more rewarding than to see patients take that breath of relief when they have found confidence in your team,” said Medical Oncologist Theodore Kim, DO, Wright’s

• In Arlington, call Cascade Valley Hospital at 360-435-0515 where extended hours are offered until 7 p.m. on Wednesdays in October.

• See “Stories of Cancer and Care” by going to MoreCareLessWorry.com

physician. “We take that level of trust to heart. It’s what is important to us.

The Breast Institute was developed to offer the best care locally, to our community.”

Wright’s providers were critical to her being able to make a series of empowered choices about her personalized care. Dr. Michal Whiton, Wright’s radiation oncologist, helped to guide Wright’s cancer care decisions.

“What was great about going through that journey with her was the joint decision-making process that we really embraced together,” Dr. Whiton recalled. The choices regarding reconstructive surgery and whether or not to pursue radiation were ultimately in Wright’s hands, however collaboration was her greatest ally. “Involving her husband, Jack, in all of these decisions was very important too,” Dr. Whiton said.

For Wright, familial support, and the exemplary care and collaboration she received from Skagit Regional Health staff and providers, allowed her to reclaim her garden of purpose and renewed life as she wrapped up treatment on June 19, 2017. She plans to return to substitute teaching in September and is writing down some of her life stories to share with her children and grandchildren. Fall 2017 13

New Providers

Pair of providers join Skagit Regional Clinics

Two experienced local Family Medicine providers, Jennifer Benson, MD and Erin Collins, ARNP, joined Skagit Regional Clinics in April 2017.

Now known as Skagit Regional Clinics – Benson Family Medicine, the clinic is located at 110 N. LaVenture Road, Suite C in Mount Vernon.

The clinic is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday through Friday and offers a full spectrum of family medicine services, including newborn care, circumcisions, well-child exams, sports physicals, immunizations, annual adult physicals, well-woman exams, preventative health care, management of routine and chronic medical conditions and more.

Dr. Jennifer Benson received her medical degree at the University of Washington School of Medicine and completed her residency at Providence St. Peter Hospital in Olympia. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame.

While living in Okinawa, Japan, she served as a civilian physician on a military base and upon returning to

Washington has practiced in Mount Vernon since 2005. Dr. Benson said she particularly enjoys caring for her patients’ whole families.

Erin Collins, ARNP started practice with Dr. Benson in 2013 after working for several years with Sea Mar Community Health Center in Mount Vernon. She earned a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences at the University of California, Davis and graduated from Samuel Merritt University in Oakland, California with a Masters as a Nurse Practitioner. While finishing this degree, she worked as an RN in the intensive care unit at San Francisco General Hospital.

Collins has participated in a variety of medical missions, including trips to India, Haiti and Panama. She said these experiences have allowed her to learn from her patients and grow in her medical knowledge while using her expertise to give back to others.

Recruiting is under way to add an additional physician and ARNP at Skagit Regional Clinics – Benson Family Medicine. For

more information or to schedule an appointment, call 360-399-7700.

PEDIATRICS Deena Vichugsananon, MD Specialty: Pediatrics Practice Location: Skagit Regional Clinics – Riverbend Practice Philosophy: Pediatrics has developed many safe and proven preventative measures against diseases that used to seriously debilitate or kill children.

Dr. Vichugsananon promotes these evidence-based measures.

What do you like most about your practice?

The Riverbend Clinic has hours that can accommodate working parents. We are open until 7:30 p.m. every week day and 4 p.m. on Saturdays. The clinic has a laboratory inhouse as well as X-ray capability, which makes it easier for parents with small children. The clinic also has a pharmacy downstairs that is open until 5:30 p.m.

Dr. Vichugsananon is a graduate of the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago. She went on to complete her pediatric residency training at Texas Tech University Health Science Center in Lubbock, Texas. Outside of the office, Dr. Vichugsananon enjoys spending time with her three children and teaching them how to garden.

Appointments are available by calling 360-814-6800.

New Family Medicine Program Director joins Graduate Medical Education Julie Merriam, DO, joined the Skagit Regional Health Graduate Medical Education faculty as Family Medicine Program Director in July.

Dr. Merriam most recently served for six years as the Osteopathic Family Medicine Residency Director and Director of Medical Education for the Puyallup Tribal Health Authority in Tacoma.

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“I’m really excited to be here working with such a great group of people in medical education,” Dr. Merriam said. “I love being part of a training program and remembering the wonder of all of medicine and health.”

She has also served as the Washington Regional Director of Medical Education for Graduate Medical Education for Pacific

Northwest University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine in Yakima.

Dr. Merriam is a graduate of Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio and Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Erie, Pennsylvania. She completed an Osteopathic Family Medicine Residency at St. John West Shore Hospital in Westlake, Ohio.

ORTHOPEDICS AND SPORTS MEDICINE

URGENT CARE

Ron Fallarme, PA-C

Ken Stone, MD

Specialty: Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Specialty: Urgent Care

Practice Location: Skagit Regional Clinics – Arlington Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Practice Location: Skagit Regional Clinics – Mount Vernon Skagit Regional Clinics – Riverbend Skagit Regional Clinics – Smokey Point

Why did you choose a career in medicine?

There has always been someone on my mom’s side of the family in the medical field (doctor, RN, pharmacist, therapist etc.), and my mom wanted one of her kids to follow in that tradition.

Why did you choose a career in medicine? I felt that medicine was a way to apply my interest in science for the benefit of others.

What do you enjoy most about your practice? Giving patients hope and a smile on their face. I meet a lot of patients who were prior athletes, weekend warriors or patients who have used and abused their joints through the years. Most suffer from arthritic knees and hips, and once surgical intervention (total hip/total knee) occurs, you improve their quality of life.

Dr. Stone is a graduate of Loma Linda University School of Medicine in California.

He completed his internship at St. John Hospital in Detroit, MI. Dr. Stone practiced emergency medicine in Longview, Washington for 36 years before moving to the area to be closer to his grandson. He has been board certified in emergency medicine since 1988. Dr. Stone has an interest learning about computers in medicine, exploring the hiking trails in the area and chauffeuring his wife as she pursues her photography hobby.

PA Fallarme served as a Staff Sergeant in the U.S. Air Force Reserve from 1998 – 2004 and was deployed during “Operation Iraqi Freedom.” He enjoys the outdoors, downhill mountain biking, snowboarding and road biking.

What do you like most about Urgent Care? I enjoy the interaction with patients and the opportunity to help patients with their acute medical problems.

To schedule an appointment, call 360-435-6641.

LOOKING AHEAD In the next issue of HealthQuest magazine, you will learn about the following new specialists: Linnea Cooper, FNP Urgent Care

Jeff Carroll, PA-C Cardiology (Arrives in October 2017)

Jennifer Munn, AG-ACNP Cardiology, Mount Vernon

Wenyi Zhang, MD, MS Endocrinology, Smokey Point (Arrives in October 2017)

Alyssa Santos, MD Family Medicine, Mount Vernon Lindsay Carlile, MD Women’s Health, Arlington Sean Burson, FNP Urgent Care

Kendra Yale, MMS, PA-C Neurology (Arrives in November 2017) Cheryl de Silva, MD Pediatrics, Mount Vernon (Arrives in November 2017)

MyEClinic

On demand care Skagit Regional Health offers a convenient way for patients to access care on demand, called MyEClinic.

Patients can connect with a board certified health care provider over the phone or using video chat, any time, day or night.

How does MyEClinic work?

You can request an appointment online or call toll-free to speak with a member of the MyEClinic concierge team who can answer questions and walk you through the process of requesting a visit. During enrollment, you will be asked to provide your contact and payment information and the reason that you are seeking care. As soon as you submit a request for care, a visit will be arranged with the next available provider, typically within 30 minutes by phone or via video chat, SkypeTM or FaceTime®.

Your MyEClinic provider will ask you questions about your symptoms and medical history. He or she may also ask you to take your temperature or use a flashlight to aid in the exam.

The provider is able to write prescriptions for allergy medicine, skin cream or antibiotics, when clinically appropriate. They can also refer you to follow-up care, if needed.

What symptoms can be treated by using MyEClinic?

MyEClinic can be used for symptoms of bronchitis, cold or cough, ear pain, fever, flu symptoms, pink eye, rash, sinus infection, sore throat and urinary tract infections. If the provider believes that a physical exam is required, you will be referred to one of Skagit Regional Clinics’ locations or to the nearest emergency room, if necessary.

What does a MyEClinic visit cost?

Each visit costs a flat rate of $40, payable by credit card (Visa®, Mastercard® or Discover®).

For an appointment, call 855-9019139 or go to www.MyEClinic.org

Learn more about all new providers by visiting www.skagitregionalhealth.org.

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Welcome Class of 2019 A dozen third-year medical students from Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences joined the Graduate Medical Education program at Skagit Regional Health in July.

These students will spend two years at Skagit Regional Health performing rotations in a wide variety of medical specialties before graduating in 2019 as a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine.

FAMILY MEDICINE:

ABOVE: From left, Cory Ley, Lucas McGuire, Jessica Le, Nicholas Goodman, Cassandra Lowry Edmark, Andrew Bishop, Bjorn Anderson, Paige Ely, Emily Kunz, David Asfour, Delaney Fisher and Rayan Carter.

Ten new residents begin training at Skagit Regional Health Skagit Regional Health now hosts 30 resident physicians in Family Medicine and Internal Medicine.

Ten first-year residents arrived in July bringing the total to 12 Family Medicine and 18 Internal Medicine providers.

Residents are physicians who have graduated from medical school and have entered into a three-year period of advanced training in a medical specialty. Residents see patients, under the guidance of a supervising physician, and many are accepting new patients.

Internal Medicine residents at Skagit Regional Health see patients in

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the new clinic space on the first floor of Skagit Valley Hospital in Mount Vernon. Patients may parking lot P1 off 13th Street on the west side of the hospital and enter through the Southwest Entrance.

The Internal Medicine Residency Clinic is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Monday through Friday.

The Family Medicine Residency Clinic is located at 819 S. 13th Street in Mount Vernon, has a parking lot on the north side of the clinic, and is open 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 360-814-6230.

2 - Brook Ashcraft, DO: A graduate of Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine (PNWU), Dr. Ashcraft said he is excited to complete his medical training in Skagit Valley, where he was born and raised. His fascination with medicine started as a child, but he pursued other career paths until realizing medicine offered a diverse fulfilling career. Medically, he is interested full-spectrum family medicine as well as addiction therapy.

He lives in Burlington with his wife and two dogs.

4 - Sarah Crowe, DO: A graduate of Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Dr. Crowe was born in California and raised in Oregon where she developed a love for the Pacific Northwest. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Oregon State University and worked in bioengineering for several years before deciding to pursue a career in medicine. She is married and has two stepchildren.

3 - Jenny Le, DO: A graduate of PNWU, Dr. Le was born and raised in San Jose, California. She graduated from the University of California San Diego, where she majored in Biochemistry Cell Biology and minored in dance. During college, she said she discovered her love for medicine and Osteopathic Manual Manipulation, which led her to attend medical school at PNWU. Dr. Le is married and new mother of one.

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1 - Asra Mazhar, DO: A graduate of PNWU, Dr. Mazhar is a native of the Pacific Northwest, living much of her life in Yakima. She completed a biology degree at Central Washington University while spending some time at Pennsylvania State University and studying abroad in Dubai, UAE. She said she has a passion for primary care and preventative medicine, which was cultivated during her medical training. She is married and enjoys spending time with family.

INTERNAL MEDICINE:

9 - Jeffery Armaly, DO: A graduate of PNWU, Dr. Armaly was born and raised in New York. He moved to the Pacific Northwest to attend the University of Washington in 2006.

After a couple of years doing bench research, he decided to pursue a career in medicine and was accepted into PNWU. As a physician, Dr. Armaly said he wants to help his patients find ways to incorporate healthier choices into their everyday lives. He and his wife Mika have a Labrador named Jasper.

5 - Alexa Celerian, DO: A graduate of PNWU, Dr. Celerian was born and raised in the Philippines. She migrated to the United States at age 13 and lived in Oregon, North Carolina and Washington. She studied biochemistry and Spanish at the University of Washington before attending PNWU. She was inspired to pursue a medical career by her mother, who is a family medicine

physician. As an osteopathic physician, she said she hopes to provide holistic and compassionate care to her patients while working with an interdisciplinary team. She enjoys spending time with her family, friends and dogs.

6 - Adam Field, DO: A graduate of Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Field grew up in Richland. He graduated from Brigham Young University in Utah with a degree in Neuroscience. Dr. Field said he has always had a keen interest in the human body and holistic medicine, and he commonly integrates osteopathic tenets into his daily practice. Dr. Field is married and has six children.

8 - Malik Nizamuddin, DO: A graduate of PNWU, Dr. Nizamuddin grew up in Kent. He graduated simultaneously from high school and Green River Community College and went on to graduate from the University of Washington, majoring in both chemistry and biochemistry. With his passion for science, education and serving his community, he decided to pursue a career in medicine. While at PNWU, he completed a year-long Anatomy Fellowship, teaching anatomy and histology to first-year medical students. As an osteopathic physician, Dr. Nizamuddin said he aims to incorporate a holistic approach to patient care with a focus on diabetes, hypertension and overall cardiovascular health. He is married.

7 - Aaron Price, DO: A graduate of PNWU, Dr. Price grew up in Poulsbo and graduated from Central Washington University. He served as a cardiovascular technician in the Army, providing care to the nation’s soldiers, veterans and their family members. He has been married for 10 years and has a 2-year old daughter.

10 - Anthony Whitlow, DO: A graduate of Lincoln Memorial University – DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Whitlow was born in Iowa and raised in Ohio. He studied ecology and evolutionary biology at the University of Tennessee. Dr. Whitlow said he has been motivated to practice medicine since a young age because he loves to work with people and is passionate about giving back to his community.

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RIGHT: Watch for Roger Lee, MD of Skagit Regional Clinics – Sedro-Woolley on the sidelines of local high school football games this fall as he assists young athletes.

Skagit Regional Clinics adds ultrasound guided tenotomy to treat overuse injuries Dr. Roger Lee, Family Medicine and Sports Medicine specialist at Skagit Regional Clinics, attended an academic conference in 2016 that highlighted a new, minimally invasive procedure called ultrasound guided tenotomy to treat patients with overuse injuries.

The high prevalence of overuse injuries inspired Dr. Lee to bring this cutting-edge technology to his patients in Sedro-Woolley.

Overuse injuries occur when the body may not have enough time to heal from micro trauma to the tendons attaching a muscle to a bone. Micro trauma involves microscopic tears in the tendons that, with enough time, can result in complete tears if not treated properly. Tennis elbow, patellar tendinitis in the knee, Achilles tendinitis, rotator cuff tendinopathy in the shoulder, and plantar fasciitis in the feet, are examples of common overuse injuries that can be relieved by ultrasound guided tenotomy.

Dr. Lee cares for athletes and professionals whose injuries negatively impact their daily lives.

Carpenters, construction workers, weight lifters, athletes, and people in other occupations with repetitive motions can develop overuse injuries, Dr. Lee noted.

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“Many patients can’t afford to take time off for surgery and recovery, so this is a great option for them,” he said.

Ultrasound guided tenotomy is a minimally invasive procedure performed in Dr. Lee’s office.

Local anesthesia is used for patient comfort. The incision made during the procedure is small, requiring no stitches. The procedure only takes a few minutes and patients can go home immediately.

“I use ultrasound to pinpoint the exact location of the diseased tissue, then I debride and irrigate the dead tissue to promote healing,” said Dr. Lee. The procedure won’t affect good tissue, he noted.

Most patients can continue normal daily activities following the procedure with no range of motion restrictions, though they should not play sports or participate in intense activity for one-to-two weeks after the procedure. Pain relief is typically observed during the week following the procedure.

BE VISIBLE

Ultrasound guided tenotomy offers many benefits and is safe and effective for all ages. Research has shown that more than 85 percent of patients have seen improvements in their pain levels following the procedure when compared with other conservative therapies such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatories and cortisone injections. Ultrasound guided tenotomy is also covered by many insurances.

Dr. Lee received his medical degree from the University of Texas at Houston Medical School. He completed residency training at Kansas University Medical Center in Kansas City, followed by a Primary Care Sports Medicine Fellowship at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Illinois. Dr. Lee cares for patients of all ages. He treats patients with musculoskeletal injuries, performs concussion management and provides general family practice care.

To learn more about ultrasound guided tenotomy or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Roger Lee, call 360-856-4141.

For those who walk or bike to school, make sure you are visible. Through the end of September, pick up a free reflective band or stickers, while supplies last, at the information desk at Skagit Valley Hospital, 300 Hospital Parkway in Mount Vernon or the reception desk at Cascade Valley Hospital, 330 S. Stillaguamish Ave. in Arlington.

Direct Access Easy way to sign up for a screening

Skagit Valley Hospital’s Endoscopy Department offers a Direct Access program allowing patients to register, schedule and receive a screening colonoscopy without a doctor’s referral. Healthy adults over the age of 50 who have not had any colonrelated symptoms (rectal bleeding, diarrhea, abdominal pain, etc.) or any other major health problems are eligible.

The Direct Access program began in 2010 and has become increasingly popular. Clinical Manager of Endoscopy Stacy Gonzales, RN, noted that her team sees an average of 90 patients each month who have utilized the self-referral program.

This accounts for nearly half of the colonoscopies performed at Skagit Valley Hospital.

Patients who have used Direct Access describe the process as “easy”

and “simple to use,” and it means just one trip for an appointment.

Patients begin the process with a simple phone call or e-mail to the Endoscopy Department’s Direct Access team.

A nurse will contact the patient to review their health history, assist in the registration process and will coordinate an appointment time for the exam. This part of the process can take up to 30 minutes to complete on the phone. The colonoscopy appointment is typically scheduled to occur within two weeks.

Patients who do not qualify for Direct Access due to their health history or current symptoms will be connected with Skagit Regional Clinics – Gastroenterology for a consult with a GI specialist.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that

all men and women aged 50 and older talk with their doctor about getting screened for colorectal cancer. After age 50, colonoscopies are recommended every 10 years to detect precancerous polyps and earlystage colorectal cancer.

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of death in the U.S. Regular screening colonoscopy is one of the most powerful means of prevention and early detection of colorectal cancer. Studies show that when colorectal cancer is caught early, it is easier to treat.

To schedule a colonoscopy through SVH’s Direct Access program, call 360-814-5739 or e-mail screeningcolonoscopy@ skagitvalleyhospital.org.

Colonoscopy is also available at Cascade Valley Hospital in Arlington.

For information, call 360-435-2133.

C O L O N C A N C E R R I S K FA C T O R S

Use of alcohol and tobacco

Being older than 50 years of age

Lack of physical exercise

Personal history of inflammatory intestinal conditions

Family history of colon cancer

Low fiber diet Fall 2017

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Skagit Regional Health

around the REGION STATE HONORS FOR RANDY ELDE

DAVID ESCOBAR, DO RECEIVES RISING STAR AWARD David Escobar, DO was selected in April to receive the Rising Star Award by the Northwest Osteopathic Medical Foundation.

Dr. Escobar, who was a Family Medicine resident at Skagit Regional Health for three years, now practices Family Medicine with Obstetrics at Skagit Regional Clinics – Stanwood.

Since 2000, the Northwest Osteopathic Medical Foundation has been presenting awards each year to outstanding DOs in two categories: Lifetime Achievement and Rising Stars. Rising Stars have been in practice for 10 years or less and have made significant contributions to the osteopathic profession.

Dr. Escobar was nominated by the Washington Osteopathic Medical Association and the organization’s outgoing Executive Director Kathie Itter.

ABOVE: Dean Thomas Scandalis from Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences, left, and David Tate, Executive Director of the Northwest Osteopathic Medical Foundation, right, present Dr. David Escobar with a Rising Star Award.

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Randy Elde, PharmD, CDE, BC-ADM was recently honored as the 2017 Washington State Diabetes Educator of the Year for his contributions to the field of diabetes education for more than 20 years.

Elde has been a diabetes educator since 1996, motivated by his daughter’s diagnosis with Type 1 diabetes four years earlier.

“She continues to be my best teacher,” Elde said.

“There were many people who gave great care to her and my family; becoming an educator felt like a good way to give back to the community.”

Elde retired recently after an extended career as a local pharmacist and has served as an educator at Skagit Valley Hospital since 2011.

Requirements for eligibility to take the certified diabetes educators

examination includes a minimum of two years professional practice in a discipline such as pharmacy, dietitian, physician, and a minimum of 1,000 hours of experience in diabetes education. Once certified, educators are requires to complete 15 hours of continuing education each year – which Elde says he enjoys.

“I never get tired of learning more,” Elde said. “I especially enjoy becoming more proficient managing the technology of diabetes, including insulin pump therapy and continuous glucose monitoring.”

Elde is also a member of the Skagit County Population Health Trust Advisory Committee, appointed by the Skagit County Board of Commissioners.

U.S. SEN. PATTY MURRAY PAYS A VISIT Skagit Valley Hospital welcomed U.S. Sen. Patty Murray in April as part of her tour of three of Washington state’s hospitals. Chief Medical Officer Connie Davis, Commissioner

Peter Browning and President and Chief Executive Officer Mike Liepman accompanied Sen. Murray on a tour of the hospital and discussion about trends in healthcare.

Commission on Cancer ®

ACCREDITED PROGRAM A Quality progr am of the american college of surgenon

ABOVE: Left to right: Steve Schultz, Director of Volunteer Services; Simran Pal; Makenna Drye; Ruby Padgett; Aleena Young; Morgan Elton; Julie Zavala; Piper Browning; Brenda Garcia, and Mike Liepman, Skagit Regional Health President and Chief Executive Officer.

EIGHT STUDENTS RECEIVE SCHOLARSHIPS Eight students graduating from area high schools in 2017 each received $500 scholarships from the Skagit Regional Health Junior Medical Volunteer Scholarship Program. Since 2005, more than $38,000 in college scholarships has been awarded to high school students who have dedicated their time to volunteering at Skagit Regional Health, including Skagit Valley Hospital, Cascade Valley Hospital and Skagit Regional Clinics.

THE SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS INCLUDE: Simran Pal, Squalicum High School in Bellingham, who plans to attend Western Washington University to study the medical field.

Makenna Drye, Burlington-Edison High School, who will attend California Lutheran University to study math and business.

Ruby Padgett, Mount Vernon High School, who will attend the University of Washington with plans

to become a surgeon or infectious disease specialist.

Aleena Young, Burlington-Edison High School, who will attend Western Washington University with plans to study prosthetics/orthotics and biomedical engineering.

Morgan Elton, Burlington-Edison High School, who will attend BYU Idaho to study a medical field or insurance.

Julie Zavala, Mount Vernon High School, who will attend the University of Portland with plans to become a doctor or physical therapist.

Piper Browning, Burlington-Edison High School, who will attend the University of Washington with plans to become a nurse practitioner Brenda Garcia, Mount Vernon High School, who will attend Dartmouth College, with plans to pursue a career as a surgeon or pediatrician.

DID YOU KNOW? Skagit Regional Health offers outpatient pediatric appointments in Arlington and Mount Vernon. The pediatrics office in Mount Vernon offers extended hours, Monday – Saturday.

Walk-in and same-day appointments are welcome.

Skagit Regional Clinics’ Patient Resource Center is open Monday Saturday 6:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. and Sunday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. to assist you in scheduling appointments and answering your questions. Call 360-428-2500 to speak with a representative.

REGIONAL CANCER CARE CENTER EARNS NATIONAL ACCREDITATION WITH COMMENDATION The Commission on Cancer (CoC), a quality program of the American College of Surgeons (ACS) has granted three-year accreditation with commendation to the Regional Cancer Care Center.

Three-year accreditation with commendation is only awarded to a facility that exceeds standard requirements at the time of its triennial survey.

With locations in Mount Vernon and Arlington, the Regional Cancer Care Center takes a multidisciplinary approach to treating cancer as a complex group of diseases that requires consultation among surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists, diagnostic radiologists, pathologists, and other cancer specialists.

“This achievement is truly a milestone for our cancer program.

To receive a full accreditation with commendation from the Commission on Cancer for both our general oncology and our breast cancer program demonstrates our commitment to providing worldclass, multi-disciplinary cancer care for our community,” said Barbara Jensen, RN, BSN, MBA, Director of Oncology and Diagnostic Imaging for Skagit Regional Health.

“These results are representative of the hard work and dedication to quality patient care by our entire cancer care team,” Jensen said.

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SKAGIT REGIONAL HEALTH EMPLOYEES IN ACTION More than 40 staff and family members participated in the Bay View Women’s Run and Walk in May as part of Skagit Regional Health’s wellness program. Skagit Regional Health’s team was the largest to participate in the event, hosted by the Burlington Soroptimist Club, and three employees took home awards.

RIGHT: More than 40 Skagit Regional Health staff and family members joined in the Bay View Women’s Run and Walk.

SKAGIT VALLEY KIDNEY CENTER EARNS FIRST “DIAMOND” IN PATIENT SAFETY PROGRAM The Skagit Valley Kidney Center has been awarded its first diamond out of five for its commitment to patient safety. For this module, the staff and patients focused on patient safety principles, which included 100 percent of staff completing a 10-question safety questionnaire and completing in-service training on “What is Patient Safety?” and “Patient Safety in the Dialysis Unit.”

The clinic also developed a patient education team that will continue to provide education on a monthly basis. The staff has worked very hard and continue to work on their four remaining diamonds.

The program is designed to allow end-stage renal disease (ESRD) facilities to improve both staff and patient awareness of specific patient safety areas, promote patient safety values, and build a culture of patient safety.

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Achieving diamonds also has a direct impact on the facility’s quality program, safety, and Quality Incentive Program (QIP). Facilities that achieve diamond status are recognized in each ESRD network for their commitment to patient safety.

The 5-Diamond Patient Safety Program is an innovative training and recognition program to assist dialysis providers in increasing awareness and building a culture of safety among patients and staff.

The program is designed to focus on specific areas in need of improvement and consistency and is backed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS). The program is voluntary in the ESRD networks and incorporates both facility staff and patients. Each award period spans 1 year, allowing facilities to earn 1 diamond at a time, with a final award designation of 5, showing the staff and patients commitment to safety.

CASCADE HONORS THREE WITH SCHOLARSHIPS Dr. Rosana Go, President of the Cascade Valley Hospital Medical Staff, presented scholarships to three seniors graduating from Arlington High School in June.

Jaynee Diaz will attend the University of Washington with plans to apply to the nursing program.

Keely Hall will attend the University of Washington, in premed with plans to become a doctor.

Bethany Barnett will attend Northwest University in Kirkland with plans to apply to the nursing program.

BELOW: Jaynee Diaz, from left, Dr. Rosana Go, Keely Hall and Bethany Barnett.

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mile of walking each way

of the daily recommended 60 minutes of physical activity

Back to school How to encourage walking and biking

By Liz McNett Crowl • Skagit Healthy Communities Coordinator Walking to school is an easy way to get the blood pumping and meet the physical activity requirements that scientists say will help children lead longer and healthier lives.

Regular physical activity in childhood and adolescence is important for promoting lifelong health and well-being and preventing chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. The national recommendation is that children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years should have 60 minutes or more of physical activity each day. Sadly, only about 20 percent of children and adolescents in the United States meet the recommendations.

Check out the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Physical Activity Facts to learn more about the benefits and guidelines for children’s physical activity: http://www.cdc.gov/ healthyschools/physicalactivity/facts. htm One way to help your students be more physically active is to encourage them to walk and bike to school.

Not too long ago, children regularly traveled to school and around their neighborhoods by walking and biking. Rates of children walking and biking to school have decreased significantly in the last 50 years. In the late 1960’s, about 50 percent of children walked and biked to school,

while today only about 13 percent of students walk and bike to school.

Here are some strategies to help parents and caregivers teach students how to be safe pedestrians and bicyclists: Walking is an early childhood accomplishment. Parents or caregivers can help children become a safe pedestrian by teaching them age appropriate skills and then practicing the skills with them until you are satisfied that they are capable to travel independently.

For a good resource for learning how to teach your child to be a safe pedestrian visit http://guide. saferoutesinfo.org/graduated_ walking/index.cfm Young children may especially benefit from being part of a neighborhood walking school bus.

Parents in a neighborhood can work together to accompany a group of kids as they walk to school and form their own walking school bus. To find information on what a walking school bus is and how to form one go to http://guide.saferoutesinfo.org/ walking_school_bus/index.cfm Most children learn to ride a bicycle about the time they start school. To help children become a safe cyclist there are several links in this Bicycle Activity Kit to get

you started: https://one.nhtsa. gov/people/injury/pedbimot/bike/ bskitboth/3152bskit/pages/section1/ section1toc.html One of the first steps in teaching children about bicycle safety is to be a role model. To help parents sharpen their personal bicycling skills these League of American Bicyclist ride smart videos are really helpful http://bikeleague.org/ ridesmartvideos Bike Trains are similar to a walking school bus as an adult accompanies a group of students in bicycling to school. This guide can help you in forming your own Bike Train. http:// guide.saferoutesinfo.org/walking_ school_bus/bicycle_trains.cfm

RESOURCES:

This is a good overview of getting youth ready to ride. It includes safe bicycling tips, rules of the road and more. https://www.nhtsa.gov/sites/ nhtsa.dot.gov/files/811556.pdf One important consideration for bicyclists and pedestrians is to be predictable and be visible. Now through the end of September, stop by the Information Desk at Skagit Valley Hospital, 300 Hospital Parkway in Mount Vernon or Cascade Valley Hospital, 330 S. Stillaguamish Ave. in Arlington to receive a free reflective band or stickers while supplies last.

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Osteoporosis Q&A Systemic bone disease affects men and women

By Peter Wilcox, DNP, ARNP • Skagit Regional Clinics – Endocrinology WHAT IS IT? Osteoporosis by definition means “porous bone” and is a condition that occurs when the body loses bone mass too rapidly, makes too little new bone or when both of these conditions occur simultaneously leading to fragility fractures.

WHAT CAUSES IT? To understand osteoporosis, it is important to know about two very important cells within our body called: Osteoclasts and Osteoblasts. These cells are responsible for the remolding of healthy bones.

Some of the conditions that contribute to this disorder include: diabetes, hyperparathyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Vitamin D deficiency, premature menopause, hypogonadism, chronic kidney disease, celiac disease, chronic steroid use and weight loss surgery.

WHAT CAN BE DONE? As with all things in medicine, prevention is the key. Diet, exercise and following recommended screening guidelines are the foundation for healthy bones.

Calcium and Vitamin D are essential components of nutrition to ensure the body is able to maintain adequate bone health. Weight-bearing exercises are also essential for maintaining a strong skeletal structure. There are two forms of weight-bearing exercise consisting of high-impact and low-impact. The form of exercise that is appropriate for you should be discussed with your medical provider. When the preventive methods are not sufficient and an individual develops osteoporosis there are safe and effective pharmaceutical options available that have been proven to reduce fracture risks.

Meet our Experts WHAT ARE THE CONSEQUENCES? Osteoporosis is known as a silent disease, as you do not feel the bone weakening and therefore it is important to cue into subtle signs such as loss of height, chronic back pain or bone fracture from minor trauma such as a ground level fall. After a hip fracture, 10 to 20 percent of active/independent patients require long-term nursing care. In Caucasian women, one in six will develop a hip fracture and is more prevalent than a breast cancer lifetime diagnosis.

WHAT ARE THE CURRENT SCREENING GUIDELINES?: The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends screening if: • you are a woman age 65 or older • you are a man age 70 or older • you have broken a bone after the age 50 • you are a woman of menopausal age with additional risk factors • you are a postmenopausal woman under age 65 with additional risk factors • you are a man age 50-69 with additional risk factors

Fracture prevention program begins Osteoporosis is a serious medical disorder with bone fractures occurring in approximately one in three women over the age of 50, as well as one in five men of similar age. Approximately 80 percent of individuals who have already sustained a fragility fracture do not receive adequate screening or treatment for this condition.

The Endocrinology Department at Skagit Regional Health is launching a Fracture Prevention Program in October to help address this disparity.

The program design is based on the National Osteoporosis Foundation’s recommendations to help tailor treatment recommendations to better address the specific cause of bone health disease and to further reduce an individuals’ risk for suffering a fracture.

To reach the Endocrinology Department, call 360-814-6315.

What is a bone density scan?

A bone density scan uses a specialized X-ray machine called a Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry – DEXA for short. The results show if a person has normal bone density, low bone density (osteopenia), or osteoporosis.

DEXA is the most common way to accurately tell if a patient has osteoporosis. Scans are available at Skagit Regional Health, see photo above.

DEXA takes two low-dose X-rays on small sections of the hip and spine, sometimes other parts of the body will

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be imaged, such as the forearm. The X-rays are then analyzed by computer to calculate your bone mineral density (BDM). According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, a bone density scan can help you and your health care provider: • Learn if you have weak bones or osteoporosis before you break a bone • Predict your chance of breaking a bone in the future • See if your bone density is improving, getting worse or staying the same

• Find out how well an osteoporosis medicine is working Let you know if you have osteoporosis • after you break a bone Speak to your health care provider on what location is best for you. Skagit Regional Health has two locations to serve you: Cascade Valley Hospital in Arlington and Skagit Regional Clinics in Mount Vernon. If you have had a bone density scan done before, it is recommended you have any follow up done at that same location for an accurate comparison.

HOSPICE OF THE NORTHWEST

A recent study by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization shows more than 44 percent of Americans with less than six months to live choose hospice care. If someone learns they have a serious illness, such as cancer or congestive heart failure, they often want to do everything possible to find a cure. That’s understandable.

Sometimes, however, the treatment can be physically and emotionally difficult, and ultimately causes the patient more pain and discomfort than they want to endure.

At this point, it might be time to consider a transition to hospice care.

Rather than providing a cure, hospice care is designed to focus on comfort and quality of life. An interdisciplinary team works together to help keep a patient

emotionally, physically and spiritually comfortable towards the end of life.

“If we are able to get to them and help them early enough, patients really do benefit from our services; this, in turn, can contribute to them living longer and better quality lives,” said Hospice of the Northwest Outreach Admission Specialist Pam Putney.

Getting hospice care does not necessarily mean dying sooner. In fact, sometimes the opposite is true. This might be attributed to patients being more comfortable without treatment side effects and because of the removal of non-essential medications from their daily regime.

The New England Journal of Medicine published a 2010 study on terminally ill lung cancer patients that showed those receiving palliative care had a better quality of life and lived an average of three months longer than those who did not seek this care.

Palliative care focuses on relieving a

patient’s suffering in all disease stages, and it often goes hand in hand with hospice care.

“We have residents who decide to go on hospice and when the team from Hospice of the Northwest comes in, suddenly the resident perks up and starts to feel better,” said a home care aide at a local assisted living facility.

“They often get to stop taking all these pills; that alone helps with their quality of life.”

There are a number of tools available to walk through advanced care planning.

Decisions about end-of-life care are deeply personal, and conversations that focus on your wishes and beliefs will relieve loved ones and healthcare providers of the need to guess what you would want. For more information, contact Hospice of the Northwest at 360-814-5550 to make an appointment and talk to someone about advance directives.

Stitching Love to Completion Mary Jean loved sewing things for her family. When she came into Hospice care, she was working on an intricate Cathedral Window quilt for her daughter. Cathedral Window quilts use folding and stitching to create a three-dimensional window design, which allows the quilter to beautifully frame scraps and other

small pieces of fabrics in the design.

Mary Jean had been saving fabric pieces for years for this special quilt.

Eventually, Mary Jean realized that her hands were no longer steady enough to use the sewing machine. Enter Hospice of the Northwest Volunteer Sarah Catton.

Sarah, a retired nurse, met Mary Jean at the end of August 2016 and she immediately discovered Mary Jean’s enthusiasm for life, her deep love of family, and her formidable sewing talents. Mary Jean and Sarah got to know each other, and Sarah grew to love the stories Mary Jean would tell. They had many shared interests like crafts, canning and quilting.

In order to help Mary Jean finish her beloved quilt, Sarah brought her sewing machine to Mary Jean. And, with Mary Jean’s help and collaboration she was able to complete this special quilt.

Hospice of the Northwest Foundation donors provide funding for the Hospice volunteer program.

“Mary Jean had expressed to her hospice team that one of the things she desired most was to finish a handmade quilt she had started for her daughter, Annette. Sarah helped her do that.”

HNW Volunteer Supervisor, Julie Barr Because of this generosity, Hospice of the Northwest volunteers provided 864 patient visits in 2016.

Volunteers like Sarah are an instrumental part of the hospice care team. Medicare-certified hospices, like Hospice of the Northwest, are required to provide volunteer services as part of their interdisciplinary care teams.

Volunteers provide a wide variety of services to patients and families, including companionship visits, caregiver assistance, light housekeeping, and office help.

The HOSPICE OF THE NORTHWEST FOUNDATION funds dignity, compassion and comfort to terminally ill members of our community and ensures that quality hospice care is available to all who are coping with a life-limiting illness. For more information, go to www.hospicenw. org, or call (360) 814-5702.

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Community Leaders Join Foundation Board The Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation is pleased to welcome four new members to the Board of Trustees.

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.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Volunteers are the key to the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation’s efforts in securing philanthropy. The Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation is led by the following group of community leaders who serve generously and without compensation.

Zach Barborinas Dee Berglin Kevin Bingham Kate Biringer Julie Blazek Jill Christensen Kati Collins Mary June Curtis Jacqueline Hawkins

Dr. Joshua Hawkins Debbie Hendricks Jama Hiltz Alicia Huschka Barbara Jensen Katie Jungquist Aldi Kllogjeri Matt Lehman Mike Lervick

Mike Liepman Melissa Nelson Holly Nielsen Larry Otos Jill Pickering Richard Roozen Brett Simbe Jim Spane Dr. Rob Zwick

S TA F F Linda Frizzell Executive Director

Wendy Ragusa Development Coordinator

Becky Wells Development Associate

To learn more about how you can support the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation, visit www.skagitregionalhealth.org/Hospital-Foundation Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation P.O. Box 1376 Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-428-2140

Like us on Facebook at

www.facebook.com/ SkagitValleyHospitalFoundation

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Alicia Huschka is the Chief Financial Officer of Northwest Clean Air Agency in Mount Vernon.

She and her husband Glenn reside in Mount Vernon and have two grown children. Alicia is a graduate of Montana State University – Billings with a Bachelor’s degree in Business and is a Certified Public Accountant.

Barbara Jensen currently serves as the Director of Oncology and Diagnostic Imaging for Skagit Regional Health. She and her husband Chris live in Mount Vernon and have five grown children. Barbara is a Registered Nurse with a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Seattle Pacific University and received her Master’s degree in Business Administration from Western Governors University.

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Katie Jungquist is the Skagit County Treasurer. She and her husband Steve reside in Mount Vernon and enjoy spending time with their daughter’s family including their two grandchildren.

Katie holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Central Washington University.

Holly Nielsen is the Clinical Manager of the Mental Health Center for Skagit Regional Health.

Holly, her husband Paul, and two sons live in Burlington. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education, a Master’s degree in Counseling and a PhD in Clinical Psychology.

New Foundation officers installed

At the May annual meeting of the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation, the following community leaders were installed as officers for the 2017-2018 year: President: Jill Pickering

Treasurer: Zach Barborinas

Vice President: Mary June Curtis

VP/Sunrise Inn: Dee Berglin

Past President/Asst. Treasurer: Richard Roozen

VP/Cancer Care: Jacqueline Hawkins

Secretary: Debbie Hendricks

VP/Planned Giving: Brett Simbe

ABOVE: Students from Burlington-Edison High School ASB

2017 Playhouse Raffle Raises More Than $4,100 for Surgical Services Burlington-Edison High School ASB Supports Regional Cancer Care Center Students from the BurlingtonEdison High School ASB class recently toured Skagit Valley Hospital’s Regional Cancer Care Center and presented a $720 check dedicated to the Foundation’s Cancer Care Patient Assistance Fund.

The students surpassed their $500 goal and raised funds by selling “Cure Cancer Dollars.” On each “dollar” purchased, there was an opportunity to list the name of a loved one fighting cancer. The “dollars” were then added to a wall display. The Foundation thanks the students of B-EHS for their on-going support!

The Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation sincerely thanks community members who purchased raffle tickets for a chance to win the “Choo Choo Train,” a Spane Buildings,

ABOVE: Juan Soria’s sons celebrate their new “Choo Choo Train” playhouse.

Inc. playhouse. The playhouse was one of three custom playhouses constructed by different builders for the annual Skagit/Island Counties Builders Association (SICBA) Home and Garden Show held in March at the Skagit County Fairgrounds.

A total of $4,100 was raised through raffle ticket sales to support the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation. Juan Soria of Mount Vernon held the winning ticket!

The Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation is grateful to Spane Buildings, Inc. for their generosity and partnership with the Foundation for the eighth year in a row. We are grateful to Spane’s project partners Cascade Lumber and designer George Deasy.

This year’s ticket proceeds benefit the Foundation’s Hana® surgical table project.

Skagit Regional Health Employees Give Back

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The incredible employees of Skagit Regional Health gave generously during the 2017 Employee Giving Campaign.

Employees designated PLOY gifts and pledges to a Foundation fund of their choice, totaling $24,300. These gifts were given to the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation through payroll deductions, cashed-out vacation

time and direct gifts.

The money raised will be gifted back to various areas of Skagit Regional Health to provide program support and equipment purchases. It is the mission of the Foundation that these gifts and other funds raised throughout the year will enable us to continue to support quality care for the patients we serve.

The Foundation thanks the employees of Skagit Regional Health for their continued support!

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14TH ANNUAL

GOLF

Sunshine and a great cause made for a perfect day on the golf course The 14th annual Par Tee Golf Classic took place on June 23, 2017 at Skagit Golf & Country Club in Burlington and raised a record gross of $75,000 to benefit the Foundation’s Cancer Care Patient Assistance fund and the Surgical Services campaign.

The scramble format tournament began at 10 a.m. with a shotgun start.

Golfers were treated to continental breakfast, lunch, dinner, welcome bag, putting and KP contests, use of a golf cart and activities and refreshments at each hole. Other features included hole-in-one prizes, a raffle, progressive poker hand, silent auction and many giveaways!

The Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees and staff would like to thank the more than 50 tournament event and hole sponsors, silent auction and raffle donors and nearly 80 volunteers who all contributed to the success of this year’s tournament.

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2017 PARTEE SPONSORS • Association of Washington Public Hospital Districts • Baird Private Wealth Management – Mendoza Stewart Group • Biringer Nursery • Bristol-Myers Squibb Company • Cascade Natural Gas Corporation • Chad Fisher Construction LLC • CPI Plumbing & Heating • Crothall Healthcare • Dwayne Lane’s Auto Family • ECG Management Consultants • Epic • Foster Pepper PLLC • G & W Commercial Interiors • Alfie Hill-Banta • Jack Carroll’s Skagit Hyundai • Janicki Industries • Judd & Black • Just Peachy Frozen Yogurt • Dr. David Kantorowitz • Laboratory Corp of America • Leverage Information Systems • Life Care Center of Skagit Valley – Sedro-Woolley • Lisser & Associates, PLLC • Maple Wood Farms • McKinstry Energy Services • Meyer Sign & Advertising • Mobile Merchandisers

• Moss Adams, LLP • North Puget Oncology • Optimum Properties, LLC • Piper Jaffray Companies • PRIMAC Electric, LLC • Dr. John Register • Resource Corporation of America • Retail Lockbox, Inc. • SB&C, LTD • Seattle Cancer Care Alliance • Skagit Regional Health • Skagit Transportation, Inc. • State Farm Insurance – Carol Lawson, Brad Methner and Keith Sorestad, Agents • Skagit Valley Hospital Auxiliary • Skagit Valley Hospital Guild • Smiley Insurance Services Corp.

• TeamHealth • Thomas Cuisine Management • TRICO Companies, Inc. • VECA Electric • Voya Financial Services • Whidbey Coffee Company • Dr. Michal Whiton • Dr. Rob Zwick

Fall 2015

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Leaving a Legacy She was described as beautiful – inside and out, warm and welcoming, but also private. She was a selfpronounced loner but loved to have fun and be around people. She was an avid reader and incredibly knowledgeable about everything from investments to hip hop. And she believed strongly in leaving a legacy, Meet Shirley Higgins.

Shirley was born in 1942 in a small fishing village in Canada. Upon her high school graduation, she began a career that would last 40 years as a “stewardess” for Northwest Orient Airlines. She traveled the world, embracing a sense of adventure.

In Minneapolis, she met her husband, Chuck, and together they relocated to the Seattle area and ultimately built their retirement home in Mount Vernon in 2005. She and Chuck never had children of their own but loved their 10 nieces and nephews who lived scattered across the country.

Shirley’s battle with cancer began 25 years ago, and during that time she survived Hodgkin’s lymphoma twice. In

the summer of 2015, she was diagnosed with lung cancer and during the remaining year of her life she worked very closely with oncologist Dr. George Gjerset and his staff at the Regional Cancer Care Center. She lost her life to a stroke in September 2016.

As a show of gratitude for the excellent care she received, Shirley left a generous bequest of $75,000 to the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation’s Cancer Care fund for needs in the Regional Cancer Care Center.

“She had 100 percent confidence in the care and treatment that she received, and after meeting with so many doctors and caregivers myself, I truly believe that she received the very best care available too,” said Shirley’s niece Kim Moger of Newcastle, WA. “It was very important to her to leave a portion of her estate for needs in the Regional Cancer Care Center. The treatment and care that she always received there made her comfortable and confident and she was always treated with respect.”

Photos provided by the family of Shirley Higgins.

Surgical Services Fund

Sometimes things don’t need to be as difficult as they appear... …and the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation is proud to be playing a role in making procedures easier on our patients by bringing the Hana® surgical table to Skagit Regional Health. The current $125,000 campaign will pay for the state-ofthe-art table at Skagit Valley Hospital that allows our orthopedic surgeons to perform the anterior approach to hip replacement (as well as many other orthopedic procedures!).

More than 300,000 people now require total hip replacement surgeries in the United States every year. The anterior hip surgery is faster, the hospital stay is shorter and the healing time is quicker (See pages 4-6).

You can be part of making a difference!

Estate Planning/Living Wills Workshop Join local attorney James Dolan for a presentation on estate planning, trusts, powers of attorney and wills. He will also speak on the importance of living wills and proactive care planning.

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

This event is sponsored by the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation.

OCTOBER 4 (WED) 2 - 3 p.m. with time for questions Mount Vernon Presbyterian Church – east meeting room 1511 East Broadway Street Mount Vernon No charge, but pre-registration required

The Foundation is accepting taxdeductible donations to the Surgical Services campaign. Gifts of any size are appreciated and may be made: ON-LINE: www.skagitvalleyhospitalfoundation.org CALL US: 360-428-2140 MAIL TO: Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation

Surgical Services

P.O. Box 1376

Mount Vernon, WA 98273

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HealthQuest HEALTH SCREENINGS

Cholesterol/Diabetes, Vitamin D and Bone Density Screenings Full Lipid Profile plus Glucose: 10-12 hour fast required, water and prescribed medications only, no coffee or tea. No alcohol 24 hours prior. Fee: $29 Vitamin D: Fasting is not required. Fee: $49 Bone Density: This is a non-invasive, painless scan of one hand. Results are available immediately. Fee: $10 For information call 360-814-2424.

No appointment or preregistration is required.

Debit or credit card or personal check – no cash accepted.

SEPTEMBER 27 (WED) 8 – 9 a.m.

Skagit Regional Clinics - Stanwood 9631 269th Street NW OCTOBER 25 (WED) 7:30 – 9 a.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon 300 Hospital Parkway Sahale Conference Room NOVEMBER 8 (WED) 8 – 9:30 a.m.

Cascade Valley Hospital – Arlington 330 S. Stillaguamish Ave Critical Decision Unit

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Free Blood Pressure Screenings Automated blood pressure machines are available at the following locations: • Skagit Regional Clinics - 1400 East Kincaid Mount Vernon • Skagit Valley Hospital - Main north entrance and Kincaid Street lobby • Skagit Regional Clinics - Stanwood

FREE Carpal Tunnel Screening Are you suffering from hand numbness, tingling and burning in your wrists or hands? Do your hands go numb with use, or does the numbness wake you up at night? You need to attend our free Carpal Tunnel screening to find the source of your pain. The screening consists of a brief review of symptoms and a screening exam from Edwin Chang, MD, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon.

OCTOBER 16 (MON) 1 - 4 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon San Juan Conference Room Pre-registration required

FREE Skin Cancer Screening Skagit Regional Clinics – Dermatology will conduct visual inspections of skin abnormalities you are concerned about. Call 360-814-2424 or 360-629-6481 to schedule an appointment.

NOVEMBER 6 (MON) 1 - 4 p.m.

Skagit Regional Clinics – Riverbend Dermatology Department 2320 Freeway Drive, Mount Vernon Pre-registration required

FREE Vision Screening A certified ophthalmic technician with Cascadia Eye will conduct vision and glaucoma screenings. This is not an evaluation of cataracts or macular degeneration. It is an acuity (vision) and eye pressure test only. Bring a contact lens case for storage during the screening. Call 360-814-2424 or 360629-6481 to schedule an appointment.

OCTOBER 27 (FRI) 1 - 3 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon San Juan Conference Room Pre-registration required

Is it Time for Your Mammogram?

In accordance with the American College of Radiology and the Society of Breast Imaging, screening mammograms are recommended yearly beginning at age 40.

THE BREAST CARE CENTER 1320 East Division Street Mount Vernon 360-428-7270 A service provided cooperatively

by Skagit Valley Hospital and Skagit Radiology.

CASCADE VALLEY HOSPITAL 330 S. Stillaguamish Avenue Arlington 360-435-0515 Open until 7 p.m. on Wednesdays in October.

Stroke and Aneurysm Screening This ultrasound screening test provided by Skagit Digital Imaging is non-invasive, quick and painless and

All classes require pre-registration unless specified. Call 360-814-2424

PHONE

360-814-2424 or 360-629-6481

INTERNET

www.skagitregionalhealth.org click on Events

QUESTIONS?

Call 360-814-2424 or for hearing impaired, please call TTY 360-814-2219

CAMANO ISLAND

127 N. E. Camano Drive Camano Island 360-387-5398

Don’t wait 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!

CASCADE VALLEY HOSPITAL 330 South Stillaguamish Avenue Arlington

360-435-2133

SKAGIT VALLEY HOSPITAL

300 Hospital Parkway Mount Vernon

360-428-2500

will help you identify whether you are at increased risk for stroke and vascular disease. The cost is only $59 (check or cash only) for the combined carotid and aorta screening. You must also have a Primary Care Physician.

To register for an appointment, call 360-428-8208 weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Screenings are held at Skagit Radiology located at 1320 E. Division, Mount Vernon.

specializes in comprehensive, minimally invasive arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery of the hip, shoulder, knee and ankle, including ligament reconstruction, tendon repair, joint replacement, fracture care and sports medicine in patients of all ages. He also has extensive experience working with recreational, high school, collegiate and professional athletes who have been injured.

HEALTH EDUCATION

NOVEMBER 8 (WED) 6 – 7:30 p.m. with time allowed for questions Skagit Regional Clinics – Riverbend 2320 Freeway Drive Mount Vernon Pre-registration required

Doc Talk: Orthopedics Sports Injuries to Total Joint Replacement Whether you are a regular exerciser, a seasoned athlete or are suffering from joint discomfort or injury that has limited your ability to do the activities you love, this Doc Talk is for you. Fortunately, most injuries can be treated effectively, and most people who suffer injuries can return to a satisfying level of physical activity after appropriate treatment, including rehabilitation and surgery.

Christopher Sheu, MD, sports medicine fellowship trained-orthopedic surgeon with Skagit Regional Clinics,

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 $15 for AARP members; $20 for nonmembers. Pre-registration is required.

OCTOBER 14 (SAT) 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon San Juan Conference Room Pay at the class

or visit www.skagitregionalhealth.org and click on events.

SMOKEY POINT

3823 172nd Street NE Arlington

360-639-3093

STANWOOD

9631 269th Street NW, Stanwood 360-629-1600

NOVEMBER 18 (SAT) 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon Sahale Conference Room Pay at the class

Cardiac Rehabilitation Program Have you had a recent heart attack, bypass surgery, angioplasty or stent placement, heart valve surgery or congestive heart failure? We have a program at Skagit Valley Hospital to help you return to your active lifestyle and learn how to reduce your risk factors. A team of Clinical Exercise Physiologists supervise the classes to 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.

Heart Healthy Fitness Program 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-toone attention. We work on strength training, balance and cardiovascular fitness. For questions, cost and class times, call 360-814-8368.

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Estate Planning/ Living Wills Workshop Join local attorney James Dolan for a presentation on estate planning, trusts, powers of attorney and wills.

He will also speak on the importance of living wills and proactive care planning. Call 360-814-2424 or 360-629-6481 to register.

This event is sponsored by the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation.

OCTOBER 4 (WED) 2 - 3 p.m. with time for questions Mount Vernon Presbyterian Church – east meeting room 1511 East Broadway Street Mount Vernon No charge, but pre-registration required

FREE How to Stay Heart Healthy Class Heart disease is a leading cause of death for both men and women. In fact, over half a million Americans die every year from heart disease.

That’s one out of every four deaths.

This free and informative class is presented by Dr. Natalia Usoltseva, a board-certified internal medicine physician at UW Neighborhood Smokey Point Clinic, and covers common heart conditions, reasons for heart disease, treatment options, and lifestyle changes you can make to keep your heart healthy. You’ll also get great information about checking your blood pressure correctly and see an interactive overview of coronary heart disease and heart failure.

SEPTEMBER 26 (TUE) 6 – 7:30 PM UW Neighborhood Smokey Point Clinic 3823 172nd Street NE, Arlington 2nd floor Lobby at the top of stairs Register today at uwmedicine.org/ smokeypoint.

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 (such as dialysis and transplant), diet, health maintenance, financial and social concerns. For more information and registration, call 360-416-5717.

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Medicare 101 Class Do you need help comparing or choosing a Medicare plan?

Skagit Regional Health along with MedicareCompareUSA® will offer a series of upcoming Medicare 101 sessions.

SEPTEMBER 27 (WED) 2 – 4 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon San Juan Conference Room OCTOBER 18 (WED) 10 a.m. – noon Cascade Valley Hospital – Arlington Rainier Conference Room B

Meditation for Calming and Focusing Your Mind Let an experienced meditator guide you in simple techniques to become comfortable with this valuable skill in this popular three-session class.

Meditation is now scientifically recognized to help reduce stress and anxiety, blood pressure and help with restful sleep.

Jan Hodgman, MA, has been meditating for more than 40 years and spent eight years in a Japanese Zen monastery.

NOVEMBER 6, 13 AND 20 (MON) 6 – 8 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon Sahale Conference Room $39

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program This intensive program can help patients with a wide variety of chronic lung disorders including, but not limited to, emphysema, pulmonary fibrosis, chronic bronchitis or asthma, to reduce respiratory symptoms, improve functional independence and complications and reduce hospitalizations. The program is provided by a multi-disciplinary team plus individualized education to help patients understand and learn how to manage and cope with daily activities. Participants learn self-management and relaxation techniques to improve emotional wellbeing, skills to help regain control of their breathing, and pursue activities to the fullest extent of their abilities.

The classes meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. or from 1:30 – 3 p.m. for approximately 10-18 weeks. For more information call 360-814-2236.

Spanish for Health Care Providers Workshop Learn essential Spanish vocabulary and phrases common in your health care workplace in this six-hour class, in order to communicate with Spanishspeaking patients on a basic level, while addressing several cultural differences.

The instructor is Sarah Rowan, owner of Salud! Spanish Programs. This program is approved for six contact hours of continuing nursing education.

OCTOBER 24 AND 26 (TUES/THURS) 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon Shuksan Conference Room $125 includes course materials Pre-registration is required

BLOOD DRIVES

SEPTEMBER 18 (MON) in Mount Vernon 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Skagit Regional Clinics – Riverbend – Mount Vernon 2320 Freeway Drive – mobile van Pre-registration required by calling 1-800-398-7888.

SEPTEMBER 29 (FRI) in Arlington 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (except 1 – 2 p.m.)

Cascade Valley Hospital - Arlington 330 S. Stillaguamish Avenue – mobile van Pre-registration required by calling 1-800-398-7888.

DECEMBER 11 (MON) in Mount Vernon 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Skagit Regional Clinics – Riverbend – Mount Vernon 2320 Freeway Drive – mobile van Pre-registration required by calling 1-800-398-7888.

DECEMBER 21 (THUR) in Stanwood 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (except 12:30 – 1:15 p.m.)

Skagit Regional Clinics - Stanwood 9631 269th Street NW – mobile van Pre-registration required by calling 1-800-398-7888.

DECEMBER 22 (FRI) in Arlington 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (except 1 – 2 p.m.)

Cascade Valley Hospital - Arlington Rainier Room 330 S. Stillaguamish Avenue Pre-registration required by calling 1-800-398-7888.

CHILDBIRTH, PARENTING & FAMILY RESOURCES

SKAGIT REGIONAL HEALTH Pediatric Meet and Greet This is an opportunity to meet local pediatricians from Skagit Regional Clinics to find the health care provider who is the best fit for your child. Talk with the pediatricians one-on-one in a relaxed setting. Children are welcome to attend with their parents. Please call 360-814-6827 with questions.

NOVEMBER 4 (SAT) 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.

Family Birth Center, Skagit Valley Hospital 300 Hospital Parkway, Mount Vernon NOVEMBER 7 (TUE) 5 – 6 p.m.

Family Birth Center, Skagit Valley Hospital 300 Hospital Parkway, Mount Vernon

Breastfeeding and Newborn Care 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 pediatric care provider will be available to provide information on newborn care – time for questions will be allowed. Pre-registration is required. The fee is $25 for this two and one-half hour program. The cost is only $20 when registering for the weekend childbirth preparation class at the same time. Call 360-814-2424 or 360-629-6481 for class dates and times.

Childbirth Preparation: Weekend Course at Skagit Valley Hospital Skagit Valley Hospital offers a twoday childbirth preparation class on weekends. Plan to begin the course in your seventh or eighth month of pregnancy. The class includes the same topics as the six-week course. A tour of the Skagit Valley Hospital Family Birth Center is included. The fee is $95. Medical coupons are accepted.

Pre-registration is required. Call 360814-2424 or 360-629-6481 to register.

Child Safety Seat Checks – Certified child safety seat technicians will assess your seat for age and size appropriateness, proper installation and use and recalls. This screening is highly recommended for all parents and other caregivers. Learn how to safely install and use your car seat! No appointment is necessary.

Co-sponsored by Safe Kids Northwest.

SEPT 21, OCT 19, NOV 16, DEC 21 (THUR) 12 - 2 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon at main entrance covered area 300 Hospital Parkway SEPT 8, OCT 13, NOV 10, DEC 8 (FRI) 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Cascade Valley Hospital - Arlington 330 S. Stillaguamish Avenue, Arlington By appointment only, call 360-618-7967

Gestational Diabetes Program Diabetes during pregnancy, or gestational diabetes, can result in serious complications to your baby. Skagit Valley Hospital offers a referral-based education program to improve gestational diabetes selfmanagement skills, and provides tools for moms-to-be to feel confident they are doing all they can to have a

PHONE

360-814-2424 or 360-629-6481

INTERNET

www.skagitregionalhealth.org click on Events

QUESTIONS?

Call 360-814-2424 or for hearing impaired, please call TTY 360-814-2219 healthy baby. 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 360-814-8329.

Family Birth Center Tours Free tours of the Skagit Valley Hospital Family Birth Center are offered twice a month. Call 360-814-2424 or 360-629-6481 to schedule a tour.

Lactation Services at Skagit Valley Hospital There are four 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 and would like to know more about Lactation Services at Skagit Valley Hospital, please call 360-814-BABY and one of our consultants would be happy to talk with you.

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New Mom’s Group This group is led by a nurse/ Lactation Consultant and a WIC peer counselor. Bring your baby, join us for beverages and talk about your experiences as a new mom.

Meet other moms, weigh your baby, and get answers to your questions about breastfeeding, development and much more. Pregnant women, moms with babies and any woman with breastfeeding questions are welcome to attend. Held on Thursdays from 11 a.m. – Noon in the Skagit Valley Hospital Family Birth Center Waiting Room. Call 360-428-2229 with questions.

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 pediatric care provider 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 is required. Call 360814-2424 or 360-629-6481 to register.

COMMUNITY FAMILY RESOURCES Access to Baby and Child Dentistry (ABCD) Did you know that regular dental care is recommended to start before an infant’s first birthday? Families with children up to age 6 can call Skagit County’s ABCD program at 360-416-1523 for help with dental care for their children.

Island County Health Department Island County Public Health, Community and Family Health Clinic, Camano Island is located at 127 N. East Camano Drive, down the hall from Skagit Regional Clinics-Camano Island. WIC and other programs benefiting the health of our community are offered at this clinic. Visit www. islandcountywa.gov for more information or call 360-387-0184.

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Nurse-Family Partnership First-time moms who are eligible for Apple Health or WIC can enroll in Skagit County’s Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP) program. Moms are paired with nurses who meet with them from early pregnancy until their child turns two, providing personalized information and support for a healthier pregnancy and a more confident parenting experience.

Services are provided by Skagit County Public Health at no cost to families.

For more information, please call 360416-1523. To read stories from moms who have enrolled in NFP, go to http:// www.nursefamilypartnership.org/ first-time-moms/stories-from-moms.

PCAP (Parent-Child Assistance Program) PCAP is a research-based program that assists women who have abused drugs and/or alcohol while pregnant to access services in the community.

Women who meet the eligibility criteria will receive three years of intensive case management, which includes home visitation, intervention and transportation. PCAP will help clients build and maintain healthy, independent family lives, assuring that children are in safe and stable homes and work with the client to prevent future births of drug and alcohol exposed children.

PCAP is now hosted by Brigid Collins Family Support Center in Skagit County. For more information on the program, eligibility criteria or to make a referral, contact Elizabeth, the program supervisor, at 360-428-6622.

Pregnant? Join us; for a “Materni-Tea” Come to a monthly gathering at the Olde Town Grainery Tea Room in Mount Vernon. Meet others traveling the pathway towards welcoming a new baby. Get tips for a healthier, happier pregnancy and transition to parenthood. Find out about local services and support. Tea provided. Hosted by a Skagit County Public Health maternity nurse and a childbirth/lactation specialist, fourth Thursday of every month at 1 p.m. For more information, call or text 360-630-8352.

Skagit Healthy Beginnings Line The Skagit Healthy Beginnings Line is a new information and referral telephone line to help families of pregnant women and young children find helpful activities and services that promote health, development and well-being. Call or text 360-6308352 to talk with Child & Family Health staff at Skagit County Public Health. Calls will be answered or returned Monday through Friday during regular business hours.

Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Nutrition Program The WIC program provides healthy foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support and linkage to health and social services. WIC serves women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or post-partum and infants and children up to age 5. WIC is an equal opportunity provider and does not discriminate.

Clinics are available at multiple locations across Skagit County: • Anacortes: 360-416-7595 • Arlington: 360-435-3735 • Camano Island: 360-387-0184 • Concrete: 360-854-0435 • Granite Falls: 360-691-7039 • Marysville: 360-657-4102 • Mount Vernon: 360-416-7595 • Sedro-Woolley: 360-854-0435 • Swinomish Indian Health Clinic: 360-466-3900

DIABETES EDUCATION

SKAGIT REGIONAL HEALTH – DIABETES EDUCATION Certified Diabetes Education Program Skagit Regional Health offers a multi-disciplinary, comprehensive education program for adults with diabetes, either newly diagnosed or for those patients who want additional guidance to help reduce the risks of long-term complications. The program includes individual and group education.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) is available through the program. A small sensor, worn in the abdominal area, measures and stores data for four to five days.

A1C testing is also available.

A physician referral is required so talk to your health care provider.

The program and CGM is covered by most insurance companies. Please check with your insurance provider to confirm. For other questions, or more information about the program in Mount Vernon and Arlington, contact our Diabetic Education Program Scheduler at 360-814-8329 or visit www.skagitregionalhealth. org, search Diabetes Education.

Gestational Diabetes Program Diabetes during pregnancy, or gestational diabetes, can result in serious complications to your baby. Skagit Valley Hospital offers a referral-based education program to improve gestational diabetes selfmanagement skills, and provides tools for moms-to-be to feel confident

they are doing all they can to have a healthy baby. 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 360-814-8329.

CANCER SUPPORT SERVICES

COMMUNITY RESOURCES – DIABETES RESOURCES National Diabetes Prevention Program

Art and Healing Group

The National Diabetes Prevention Program – Group Lifestyle Balance series is for those with pre-diabetes, those who have had gestational diabetes or those who pass our risk factor quiz https://www. cdc.gov/diabetes/prevention/ prediabetes-type2/index.html.

This program can help you lower your risk for type 2 diabetes with gradual, modest lifestyle changes.

The program includes year-long support and motivation beginning with 12 weekly class meetings, biweekly for the next four sessions and then monthly meetings for the last six sessions. The series of classes is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, September 6 from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Interested participants can register after September 6.

Contact WSU Skagit County Extension for more information: 360-428-4270 ext. 224, Laura DeFreese, Diabetes Prevention Program Lifestyle Coach or laura. defreese@wsu.edu or visit http:// ext100.wsu.edu/skagit/fam/diabetes/.

SKAGIT REGIONAL HEALTH – CANCER SUPPORT

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 call 360-814-8255.

First and third Mondays of each month, 2 – 4 p.m. in the Safeway Conference Room (third floor) at the Regional Cancer Care Center.

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.

Please note that artistic “skills” are not required! Come and join this fun and welcoming group. For more information call 360-814-8255.

Cancer Support Group Regional Cancer Care Center staff offer a monthly support group for individuals and their caregivers dealing with the emotional life changing challenges of a cancer diagnosis. The group is open and available on a dropin basis (pre-registration welcomed).

The group meets at 4 p.m. the second Thursday of each month. To register, or for further information, please contact Peter Wold, MSW, Oncology Social Worker at 360-814-8255 or via e-mail at pwold@skagitvalleyhospital.org.

The meetings are held in the Safeway Conference Room at Skagit Valley Hospital Regional Cancer Care Center, third floor.

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Look Good, Feel Better Look Good, Feel Better sessions are led by trained, volunteer cosmetologists who teach women either in active cancer treatment or about to start treatment 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; register by calling American Cancer Society Everett office at 425-404-2193.

SEPTEMBER 25, NOVEMBER 27 (MON) 1 – 3 p.m.

OCTOBER 23 (MON), NO CLASS IN DECEMBER 5 – 7 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital Regional Cancer Care Center Safeway Conference Room (third floor) 307 South 13th Street, Mount Vernon Pre-registration required

COMMUNITY – CANCER SUPPORT LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA The LIVESTRONG® Foundation and the Skagit Valley Family YMCA have partnered to offer a FREE 12-week physical activity and wellness program called LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA for adults who have cancer or have completed active cancer treatment.

Contact Amy Cheadle, YMCA Fitness Director at 360-3369622 for more information.

GRIEF SUPPORT SERVICES

HOSPICE OF THE NORTHWEST – GRIEF SUPPORT Community Education Are you interested in learning 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 staff, clinicians and community groups. For more information, please call 360-814-7647 and schedule a time to speak with Dana Brothers about your needs.

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.

Trained counselors offer counseling

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hours from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Plus drop-in groups two times a month. The Grief Recovery Method Support Group meets throughout the year. The Grief Recovery Method Program provides action choices that help people move beyond the pain caused by loss. It is an eight-week program that creates a safe environment helping one gain new tools for dealing with loss and grief. It is appropriate for any type of loss. For more information, referrals and to receive a current Grief Group schedule, please call 360-814-5570 or 360-814-5550.

Hospice of the Northwest Resource Center: A free lending library open to the community With one of the largest collections of books on caregiving, coping with disease, end of life concerns, grief and spirituality, Hospice of the Northwest makes this valuable resource available to anyone in the community. There are materials appropriate for adults, teens and children, and staff is available to assist those interested in something in particular. Visit the website at: www.hospicenw.org, selecting Helpful Resources, then click on Hospice Resource Library Catalog.

The Resource Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. in the lobby of the Hospice office at 227 Freeway Drive, Suite A in Mount Vernon and after hours by appointment. For more information call Hospice of the Northwest 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 Snohomish counties. With more than a dozen different “job descriptions,” volunteers offer their skills, support and companionship to staff, families and individuals who are receiving hospice services. Volunteer training is scheduled a few times a year, and prospective volunteers must apply in advance. The next training will be held in fall 2017. To learn more, contact our main office at 360-814-5550.

In-Service Education For grief and loss presentations for an organization or employees, contact the Hospice of the Northwest Bereavement Department at 360814-5570. For clinical education or presentations, contact Hospice of the Northwest at 360-814-5550.

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT SERVICES

COMMUNITY RESOURCES – MENTAL HEALTH Mental Health Support Group NAMI Skagit Open Support Group meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month from 7 – 9 p.m. at Skagit Valley Hospital. Family members and those living with mental illness are welcome. For more information contact Marti at 360-770-5666.

Family-to-Family EvidenceBased Education Program Free 12-session (six-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. The next class starts Thursday, October 5 and ends Monday, November 13.

Call Marti at 360-770-5666 or Julie at 425-765-2006 for more information. Space is limited so reservations are required.

Peer-to-Peer Education Program Free 10-session (five-week) course 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 at no charge. The next class will start in early October. Call Mark Dodds at 360-424-8224 for more information and to register. Space is limited.

Skagit Valley REACH Center People come to Skagit Valley REACH Center to build confidence, self-esteem, and self-worth, being proactive in their mental health recovery and personal wellness. This peer-run center provides volunteer opportunities, community resources, housing education, employment education, public computer access, computer classes, community voicemail and self-supporting recovery classes. REACH works with individuals age 16 and older. SVRC is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. and is located at 1413 E. College Way in Mount Vernon.

For information call 360-8738635,or e-mail Center Director Mike Hudson hudsonm@cvab.org.

Youth and Adult WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) The Wellness Recovery Action Plan, or WRAP, is an evidence-based system that is used world-wide by people who are dealing with mental health and other kinds of health challenges, and by people who want to attain the highest possible level of wellness. This program is provided

by Skagit Valley REACH Center.

For more information call 360873-8635, or e-mail Center Director Mike Hudson hudsonm@cvab.org.

SUPPORT GROUPS SKAGIT REGIONAL HEALTH – SUPPORT GROUP Ostomy Support Group

A friendly support group for people with ostomies, their friends and families. Meets the second Tuesday of each month at Skagit Valley Hospital from 6 – 7 p.m. For more information contact Cathy Schaeffer at 360-202-3410.

Parkinson’s BIG® Program Skagit Valley Hospital physical therapist Bree Corbin, MPT has completed the required comprehensive hands-on training and testing through LSVT Global to become a certified LSVT BIG clinician. LSVT BIG is a research-based exercise program focused on amplitude (bigger movement) training for individuals with Parkinson’s.

Parkinson’s disease often results in slowing of movements and decreased size of movements leaving the individual struggling with daily tasks and walking. The BIG program focuses on teaching the amount of effort needed to produce normal movements through intensive and high-effort practice. The protocol consists of 16 one-hour sessions, four days a week for four weeks. This program is appropriate for all stages of Parkinson’s disease. Please discuss program options with your healthcare provider; a physician referral is required. For more information: LSVTGlobal.com or call 360-814-2184.

Parkinson’s LOUD Program ®

Skagit Valley Hospital speech language pathologist, Kristin Conzo, MS, CCC-SLP has completed the required comprehensive hands-on training and testing through LSVT Global to become a certified LSVT LOUD clinician.

LSVT LOUD is a research-based exercise program focused on amplitude (loud voice) training for individuals with Parkinson’s.

Parkinson’s disease often results in slowing of movements and decreased size of movements leaving the individual struggling with daily tasks related to communication and swallowing. The LSVT LOUD program focuses on teaching the amount of effort needed to produce normal loudness through intensive and high-effort practice.

The protocol consists of 16 one-hour sessions, four days a week for four weeks. This program is appropriate for all stages of Parkinson’s disease.

Please discuss program options with your healthcare provider; a physician referral is required. For more information: LSVTGlobal. com or call 360-814-2184.

Stroke Support Group This caring support group for stroke survivors, their loved ones and caretakers provides up-to-date education and information. Provided

by Skagit Regional Clinics neurologists and rehabilitation therapists. Meets the last Friday of each month from noon – 1 p.m. at Skagit Valley Hospital in the Speech Therapy Office (Room 102) in the Outpatient Rehabilitation Center.

No charge. For more information call 360-814-8394 or e-mail kconzo@ skagitregionalhealth.org.

COMMUNITY - SUPPORT GROUPS Caregiver Support Groups A safe and supportive support group to share and learn from other caregivers offered in Burlington and Anacortes. Provided by Skagit Adult Day Program. Visit www. skagitadultdayprogram.org for more information or call 360-755-1235.

Mount Vernon Caregiver Support Group A safe place for unpaid family caregivers their family and friends to exchange practical information on caregiving problems and possible solutions, talk through challenges and ways of coping, share feelings, needs and concerns and learn about resources available in the community. A monthly meeting is held on the first Thursday of each month from 10 – 11:30 a.m. at Skagit Unitarian Universalist Fellowship.

500 W Section Street Mount Vernon. For more information call Cheryl McRill at 360-899-4643.

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MAKE A DIFFERENCE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Volunteer Services at Skagit Regional Health The Volunteer Services Department at Skagit Regional Health coordinates the activities of more than 400 volunteers throughout the organization.

Today’s volunteers are doing work, in core areas, that is vital to the success of our organization.

Whether you’re retired looking to use your experience to give back to your community, looking for job experience, or just wanting to learn more about what the world of healthcare has to offer, volunteering can be rewarding and satisfying.

GUILDS AND AUXILIARIES Many volunteers choose to serve through membership in one of our volunteer service and fundraising groups including the Grace Cochrum Guild, J.E.M. Guild and SVH Auxiliary.

OTHER VOLUNTEER DEPARTMENT SERVICES:

SOME OF THE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AT SKAGIT REGIONAL HEALTH INCLUDE:

HOSPITAL AND CLINIC TOURS Tours of the facilities for groups and individuals are available.

Reservations are required. Call 360-814-2142 to schedule a tour.

INFORMATION DESK VOLUNTEERS In addition to information desks at Skagit Valley Hospital, the Regional Cancer Care Center and Skagit Regional Clinics Mount Vernon, Volunteer Services also operates a volunteer information desk at SRC in Stanwood and at SRC Smokey Point.

GIFT SHOP The Skagit Valley Hospital Gift Shop has many wonderful retail gift items for sale. The gift shop is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.

– 5 p.m. All proceeds from the Gift Shop are returned back to help Skagit Regional Health in areas of need.

MAIL DELIVERY Volunteers make a twice-daily circuit to pick up and deliver mail throughout the hospital.

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

PIANISTS We are always looking for new piano players to join the group of volunteers and staff who play our grand piano on a regular basis. 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.

The program allows young people an excellent opportunity to explore the culture of a health care organization while giving service to their community. Junior Medical Volunteers work in many areas of Skagit Regional Health. Each year, Skagit Regional Health awards scholarships to outstanding Junior Medical Volunteers.

For more information or to become a member please call 360-814-2142.

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FOR STUDENTS AND JOB SEEKERS While volunteering can be a great way to explore job opportunities, network or get required school credits, we ask volunteers to complete a minimum of 100 hours before requesting recommendations or receiving credit for hours volunteered.

As the number of positions is limited, 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.

VOLUNTEER SERVICES AT CASCADE VALLEY HOSPITAL To inquire about volunteering at Cascade Valley Hospital in Arlington please contact Steve Schultz at 360-814-2142.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Get social and be the first to be in the know!

Stay up-to-date with events and programs going on throughout Skagit Regional Health and the communities we serve. Watch helpful videos from new patient orientation, to benefits of Botox for chronic migraines and holiday recipes with Skagit Valley Hospital’s chef Timm Eichhorn.

Get to know your healthcare team, participate in health awareness days and organizational events, and read helpful articles on health and wellness.

Follow Skagit Regional Health on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube today!

Facebook – Skagit Regional Health Twitter – @SkagitHealth YouTube – Skagit Regional Health

Need a Doctor?

Call our free Find a Doctor Phone Line at 360-848-5555 or 360-629-5850 from Stanwood or Camano Island.

The referral line is open Monday Saturday between 6:30 a.m. – 8 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Speakers Bureau 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 360-814-2424.

Watch HealthQuest TV on Cable-Access Television Station 10 and on YouTube.com.

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

A view on the future

Skagit Regional Health’s Board of Commissioners has a firm commitment to provide outstanding health care to the people we serve.

Exceptional patient experiences and outcomes are what we are about and what you should expect from us.

The Board is also responsible for making sure that the resources are available to provide this high level of care by watching our organization’s financial position.

This health care landscape is constantly changing and we have to be nimble and make adjustments to make sure that Skagit Regional Health remains strong now and into the future.

In May, we reviewed a five-year financial model that predicts our long-term position based on what we know today. While we have strong revenue numbers, the report shows that our labor expenses are not in line with our peers. To that end, we started a process with our leadership to review comparisons with similar organizations and evaluate our way of doing things, to look for opportunities to reduce our labor expense by 8 percent in the 2018 budget. The model shows this will help us achieve the positive margin we need to reinvest in facilities and services.

ABOVE: Skagit Regional Health’s Board of Commissioners includes, from left, Clark Todd, Bruce Lisser, Al Dennis, Jeff Miller, Jim Hobbs, Julie Blazek and Peter Browning.

The reduction in the cost of labor is only one part of the financial remedy. We are also working with our providers to look at ways to increase productivity and together looking throughout the organization for cost savings and revenue enhancements.

By all working together we believe the operating margin will become positive and allow us to continue to reinvest in our hospitals and clinics.

Skagit Regional Health – also known as Public Hospital District No. 1 – has a strong track record for being good stewards of the public’s support and funds. District No. 1 currently does not have a Maintenance and Operations levy, as most public hospital districts do in Washington, to help pay for ongoing costs of operations. However, most hospitals in Washington are not district hospitals and do not get this funding either.

In the coming weeks, we will work openly to reduce our labor expense to be in line with our peers. As we move forward with any reduction in labor, we will handle any changes in staffing respectfully.

This is not unique to Skagit Regional Health. Headlines show a trend of labor adjustments taking place in health care organizations across

the region as systems right-size to remain financially strong.

We are doing the hard work here at home, but also have to keep watch on the uncertainty at the federal level as Congress wrestles with the future of health care. The Affordable Care Act and Medicaid expansion have been beneficial to Skagit Regional Health by reducing the levels of uncompensated care in half.

Unfortunately, we are seeing those levels begin to go up again and impact our bottom line as the conversation continues in Washington, D.C. We want to be open and transparent about our financial outlook and also want to assure you that we are focused on our mission and vision to improve the health of the people we serve.

Bruce Lisser President, Public Hospital District No. 1 Skagit Regional Health Board of Commissioners blisser@skagitvalleyhospital.org

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