HealthQuest - Spring/Summer 2019

HealthQuest SPRING/SUMMER 2019

A publication of

Skagit Regional Health

At the new Y

Skagit Regional Health opens new physical therapy clinic 7

Screenings

Guidelines to increase chance to detect cancer early 10

New

Specialist Thoracic surgeon puts focus on lung cancer 4

Gratitude Report 2018

21

The Patient Experience

June 28, 2019 10 a.m.

Skagit Golf & Country Club Burlington, Washington For tournament and sponsorship information, please contact the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation, 360-814-8376 or e-mail foundation@skagitregionalhealth.org.

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We are so honored when a patient chooses Skagit Regional Health to receive their healthcare.

When a patient and family makes that choice, it’s our job to make sure that everything about that procedure, clinic visit, surgery, hospital stay, birth or X-ray is an outstanding experience.

Skagit Regional Health is hard at work to make sure all our patients have a positive encounter from the clinics to the hospitals to billing to food service.

For starters, we have a new Chief Operating Officer Danny Vera, PharmD, MBA who is responsible for oversight of all the work we’re doing around the patient experience. Danny is known for saying that his role is to “take care of the people who take care of the people.”

With experience at large healthcare facilities in California and a passion for excellence, Danny is leading the way.

Skagit Regional Health is also adding a Regional Director of Patient Experience to augment our laser focus on improving patient satisfaction. This person will organize our efforts across our four-county healthcare system to make sure we are engaging in best practices, using data to drive our decision making and truly listening to our patients.

To further broaden the effort, we have a Patient Experience Team made up of leaders, clinical staff, front-line staff, providers, nurses and others who are dedicated to our

patients. This team meets weekly and is instrumental in advancing new ideas, creating new ways for departments and care teams to work together and taking advice from our patients, who have the opportunity to visit with leaders during our daily rounding hour.

Each year, as an organization, we establish Key Performance Metrics for all of us to work on, measure and improve. In 2019, out of the list of 11, four are focused on the patient experience and another four are around quality and safety, which also have an emphasis on each patient. One could argue that all 11 have the patient in mind, of course.

When you are a patient at Skagit Regional Health, you will likely receive a survey from a firm we use called Press Ganey and the collective results of this feedback provide us with a critical way to measure how we are doing. We know we have some work to do, however, I am confident that all of the efforts mentioned here show the amount of emphasis we are placing – from frontline staff to the CEO’s office – to fully understand the trust you place in us by choosing Skagit Regional Health and our determination to provide an outstanding experience to every patient, every time.

Brian Ivie President and CEO

HealthQuest

SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | VOLUME 16 | ISSUE 1

HealthQuest is published by Skagit Regional Health and the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation.

For additional copies of HealthQuest or more information, contact Regional Director of Marketing and Communications Kari Ranten at 360-814-2370 or go to our website at www.skagitregionalhealth.org.

New specialist

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Thoracic surgeon puts focus on lung cancer

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daSurgeons Vinciperform update dozens

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Arlington surgeons

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Not sleeping?

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Screenings

10

New cath lab

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of robotic procedures

Doctors Wolff and Whitman still together after 35 years

Gratitude Report 2018

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HealthQuest Classes

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Board of Commissioners COVER PHOTO Thoracic Surgeon Richard Leone, MD, PhD, FACS prepares for an Electromagnetic Navigational Bronchoscopy procedure at Skagit Valley Hospital.

Sleep medicine provider seeks to restore quality of life Guidelines to increase chance to detect cancer early Technology shows providers amazing images of the heart

Spring 2019

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Lung cancer:

Thoracic surgeon joins Skagit Regional Health: focuses on early detection, minimally invasive surgery Thoracic Surgeon Richard Leone, MD, PhD, FACS has a great passion and energy for his work with patients.

You can see it in his face and hear it in his voice as he talks about making a difference in a patient’s life – especially a person facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

“Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death and it is very satisfying to be able to make an impact on this disease in many patients’ lives,” he said. “We have made tremendous progress in recent years in the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer and now have new methods that are less invasive and more effective in treating and curing more patients than ever before.”

Dr. Leone joined Skagit Regional Health in 2019 after 14 years as Chief of Cardiothoracic Surgery and Director of the Thoracic Oncology Program at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham.

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He brings expertise in minimally invasive lung surgery, including use of state-of-the-art Electromagnetic Navigational Bronchoscopy, which is a “GPS for the lungs,” he said. Coupled with Endobronchial Ultrasound, this new equipment at Skagit Valley Hospital is the latest in diagnosing and treating cancer in a less invasive way. Using these systems, Dr. Leone can steer through the airways with the bronchoscope to take samples of lung tissue for biopsy or to mark tumors for surgery.

“We can do really exciting things with this new technology,” Dr. Leone said, noting that when surgery is required, the patient benefits from smaller incisions and less recovery time.

“I feel I have an obligation to provide truly exceptional and modern care to my patients,” Dr. Leone said.

“I am grateful to have found an organization that shares my passion for exceptional care.”

Dr. Leone’s practice focuses on the lungs, including diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer, in partnership with Skagit Regional Health’s general surgeons and radiation and medical oncologists.

Minimally invasive techniques have replaced many procedures, requiring much smaller incisions and using video-assisted thoracic surgical techniques to work between the ribs, even to remove lobes of the lungs.

“Early stage lung cancer is very curable,” Dr. Leone said. “Surgery for early stage lung cancer can cure up to 80 percent of patients if the cancer has not spread. When we can cure a patient of cancer, it is incredibly rewarding.”

Dr. Leone and his team are also completing training in robotic surgical techniques using the da Vinci® Xi™ Surgical System at Skagit Valley Hospital. “The robot offers amazing visualization and offers us the next-step in minimally-invasive surgery for lung cancer,” he said.

Minimally invasive surgery: Screening for lung cancer is also advancing and Skagit Regional Health offers low-dose CT screening at Cascade Valley Hospital which is now covered by Medicare for patients ages 55 to 77 (see story, page 6).

“Most of the time, lung cancer has no symptoms at all until the disease is very advanced,” he said. “CT scanning is the best way to identify early, treatable lung cancers.”

Dr. Leone participates in the multidisciplinary cancer conference held weekly at the Skagit Regional Health Cancer Care Center and has plans for a thoracic oncology conference in the future to review abnormal CT scans and patients referred by community providers.

“Medicine today is a team sport. The care of patients with any illness, particularly cancer, requires a cohesive, supportive and highly functioning team,” Dr. Leone said.

“Patients don’t need to go to Seattle for anything, we have it right here, the full continuum of care.”

Dr. Leone earned a PhD in cardiovascular physiology at Rutgers University and received his Medical Degree from Rutgers University’s Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in New Jersey. He completed fellowships in Thoracic Surgical Oncology at the Memorial-Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and in Cardiothoracic Surgery at New York Presbyterian Hospital – Cornell University Medical Center in New York and completed his residency in general surgery at Rutgers University’s Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.

He has been elected as a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS), the American College of Cardiology (FACC) and the American College of Chest Physicians (FCCP).

When he is away from work, Dr. Leone and his wife, Kathy, enjoy spending time with their daughters, ages 2 and 4, and outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing.

LEFT: Thoracic Surgeon Richard Leone, MD, PhD, FACS prepares for an Electromagnetic Navigational Bronchoscopy at Skagit Valley Hospital.

da Vinci update

Skagit Regional Health rolled out the latest in surgical robotics last fall with the addition of the da Vinci® Xi™ Surgical System at Skagit Valley Hospital and the program continues to grow.

The robot has been busy in the first six months, as more than 100 cases were performed by three surgeons, with procedures ranging from hernia repairs to advanced colorectal procedures, according to Kelly Bradford, Director of Surgical Services at Skagit Valley Hospital.

“Robotic surgery continues to go well and is a huge asset to our patients,” said General Surgeon Josh Hawkins, who had performed 50 cases as of early March, with more on the schedule. “Patients are having excellent outcomes. Their hospital stay, postoperative pain and time to return to usual activities have all decreased.”

Surgeon Joel Dean, MD, has performed nearly 50 cases through March, in addition to many cases completed during his one-year Colon and Rectal Surgery Fellowship at St. Mark’s Hospital in Salt Lake City. Dr. Dean said he continues to see consistent patient interest and excellent patient outcomes using the minimally invasive approach.

“There are a number of cases that I could share that illustrate the unique benefits of robotics over traditional minimally invasive approaches,” Dr. Dean said.

Dr. Hawkins agreed. “Patients are having minimally invasive surgery for which their only previous option in some cases would have been open surgery,” Dr. Hawkins said. “I am continuing to expand, now tackling more complex operations robotically.”

General Surgeon Allison Porter, MD, said patients are asking about robotics.

“Many of our patients have been requesting a robotic approach to their operations if one is available; and many of those who have undergone

robotic surgery have required no narcotic pain medications after the procedure,” Dr. Porter said.

Dr. Porter, who completed an Advanced Minimally Invasive Surgical Fellowship at the University of Washington, has a special interest and training in the foregut, which is the esophagus and stomach – the beginning of the digestive tract.

She has recently completed the credentialing process to perform additional robotic procedures at Skagit Regional Health.

“There is a very thorough and methodical process by which the types of procedures performed robotically are selected and our surgeons are trained,” Dr. Porter said.

“I will soon be offering a robotic approach for upper gastrointestinal procedures such as antireflux surgery and hiatal hernia/paraesophageal hernia repair.”

Additional surgeons are joining the group using the da Vinci for minimally invasive surgery including General Surgeon Chinnaya Parimi, MD, who started performing cases in March, and Thoracic Surgeon Richard Leone, MD, who will perform lung cancer surgery using the robotic system. In the future, plans are to add gynecologists and urologists to the specialists using the da Vinci.

ABOVE: General Surgeon Josh Hawkins, MD performs a variety of procedures using the da Vinci robotic surgical system with ‘excellent outcomes.’

Spring 2019

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Veteran Arlington surgeons join Skagit Regional Health

Low-dose CT Lung Screening The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommends that healthy adults at HIGH risk for lung cancer should talk to their doctor about screening with low dose computed tomography (LDCT).

An adult at high risk is defined as the following:

Ages 55-74

• 30 pack years or more of smoking

AND

• Quit smoking less than 15 years ago - OR -

AGES 50 +

• 20 pack year or more of smoking

AND • Other risk factor(s) such as contact with radon or asbestos, history of lung disease, history of other cancers, or family history of lung cancer If you meet the criteria for a HIGH risk adult, talk with your health care provider about a LDCT screening exam.

Where can I get a low-dose CT scan done?

Low Dose CT screening is currently offered at Cascade Valley Hospital. The program is planned to expand to Skagit Valley Hospital in 2019. For information, go to www. skagitregionalhealth.org.

RIGHT: Arlington-based General Surgeons Monroe Whitman, left, and Peter Wolff, right, often perform surgical cases together.

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General Surgeons Monroe Whitman III, MD and Peter Wolff, MD, have been partners in health care for nearly 35 years since meeting in residency at Naval Hospital – Oakland. More than three decades later, the pair can often be found together in an operating room at Cascade Valley Hospital in Arlington performing a surgical procedure.

“At first, when we were in practice, we even did appendectomies together.

Simpler procedures, but it just made it go better,” Dr. Wolff said. “Today, on bigger cases, we scrub in together. We know each other’s moves, it allows us to do cases we couldn’t do alone and it’s much faster and efficient.”

An independent practice for many years, the pair joined Skagit Regional Health in early 2019. Their outpatient office remains in the Whitehorse Medical Building, just a block away from Cascade Valley Hospital.

Dr. Whitman’s medical career started as a scrub tech while Dr. Wolff was an ED orderly. They met in residency and spent two years in Guam together. The experiences shaped their ultimate decisions to become general surgeons.

“As general surgeons, we have to cover a lot of bases. We always like the challenge,” Dr. Wolff said.

“We were both trained in the Navy, so you take care of everything because you’re the only medical officer on the scene,” Dr. Whitman said. “You handle vascular, thoracic and general surgery, plus you are the intensivist. We were very well trained and we’ve done everything.”

The pair has embraced minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques, which lead to a short patient length of stay and faster recovery, and they continue to learn every day.

“We have to adapt to technology,” Dr. Wolff said. “It’s definitely a challenge and you definitely have to be very flexible and embrace new ways of doing things.”

Working for years in Arlington, the two surgeons have come to know their patients well.

“I see it as a family. I see them at church and at the grocery store,” Dr. Whitman said. “They know us and we treat them like family.”

The pair notes they still get a “twinkle in their eye” when an interesting case comes in and they have a chance to head for the operating room together.

“It all just happens automatically,” Dr. Wolff said. “I don’t have to tell him what to do, he just does it and I do the same. We are a team.”

Dr. Wolff graduated from Northwestern University Medical School and completed residency in General Surgery at the Naval Regional Medical Center in San Diego and Naval Hospital Oakland.

Dr. Whitman is a graduate of the Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara in Guadalajara, Mexico and completed a General Surgery internship at the College of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and New Jersey Medical School followed by residency at Naval Hospital Oakland.

OPEN HOUSE:

MAY 18 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Physical Therapy and Sports Rehabilitation opens to patients at the new YMCA Skagit Regional Health recently started offering physical therapy and sports rehabilitation services in the newly constructed 57,000-squarefoot YMCA facility at 1901 Hoag Road in Mount Vernon.

The spacious YMCA features an aquatic center, gym, community room, learning kitchen, “Kids Zone,” wellness center, running track and the new Skagit Regional Health Mount Vernon Physical Therapy clinic.

Skagit Regional Health’s partnership with the YMCA offers convenient access to physical therapy and sports rehabilitation in a state-of-the-art 1,600-square-foot clinic space. PT and sports rehab patients have use of YMCA equipment and facilities during their therapy sessions. The elevated running track provides the ideal venue for competitive athletes recovering from injury to complete timed runs and there is ample space for sportspecific training. The proximity to the pool will allow for an aquatic therapy program to be added later in the year, helping patients to improve joint flexibility, muscle strength and balance.

The team of physical therapy experts is committed to helping patients meet their unique mobility and performance goals to reach their maximum level of function. The following therapists serve patients at the new Skagit Regional Health Mount Vernon Physical Therapy location inside the YMCA:

Jacqui Berg, PT, DPT is a native of the Pacific Northwest and earned her doctorate in physical therapy at the University of Washington. She is a former member of the U.S. Junior National Snowboard team and was a professional snowboarder for many years. While snowboarding, Jacqui spent a lot of time training, and also recovering from injuries, which introduced her to the field of sports medicine and physical therapy. The positive impact that physical therapy had on her performance and recoveries led her to pursue a career in PT. As a therapist, Jacqui said she enjoys helping athletes come back from an injury stronger and wiser, working together to try to prevent future injuries and to help them understand their bodies more through education. Jacqui is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association and Physical Therapy Association of Washington.

Dave Bond, PT, DPT joined Skagit Regional Health in 2016 soon after he earned his doctorate in physical therapy at the University of Washington. Dave grew up in Skagit County and worked locally as a firefighter and paramedic before becoming a physical therapist. As a PT, his passion is helping people to move better in order to be more fully themselves. Dave’s clinical interests include orthopedic, manual and sports therapy, bridging the gap

between rehabilitating disability and improving performance, and working with people who live with persistent pain. Dave is a member of the Physical Therapy Association of Washington (PTWA), American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), and the Academy of Orthopaedic Physical Therapy (AOPT). He also serves as Chair of the Chronic Pain and Opioid Alternative Task Force of PTWA. Colby Welch, PTA, BA said he firmly believes in the role of effective physical movement as a core component to all aspects of human health. With an education background including a B.A. in History from Western Washington University and associate of science degree and Physical Therapy Assistant education from Whatcom Community College, he has worked as a journalist and land surveyor before pursuing his passion for physical therapy with Skagit Regional Health. As a PTA, Colby enjoys collaborating with his patients to create evidence-based treatments that are fun and engaging, while always keeping the patient’s future goals in mind. His clinical interests include return-to-sport, postoperative rehab and the use of assistive devices to increase function.

Skagit Regional Health also offers physical therapy services at Skagit Valley Hospital in Mount Vernon and Cascade Valley Hospital in Arlington.

Spring 2019

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LEFT: Skagit Regional Health Nephrologists Matthew Novak, MD, Wanwarat Ananthapanyasut, MD and Eugene de Guzman, MD

Nephrology group expands to three; supports patients across region Skagit Regional Health’s Nephrology program continues to grow with three board certified physicians serving patients in Skagit, Island and north Snohomish counties.

Matthew Novak, MD, Wanwarat Ananthapanyasut, MD and Eugene de Guzman, MD are based in Mount Vernon, which serves as the hub to provide support for outpatient dialysis centers in multiple locations. All three have privileges to provide dialysis care management to patients at centers in Anacortes, Oak Harbor, Smokey Point and Mount Vernon. The group serves as medical director, including quality oversight, for Fresenius Kidney Care Skagit Valley in Mount Vernon.

In addition, the physicians see patients in the outpatient clinic in Mount Vernon and provide oversight for care to those who receive inpatient dialysis at Skagit Valley Hospital, which is the only acute care facility in Skagit and Island counties where the service is available.

Nephrology is a specialty focused on the physiology and diseases of the kidneys. Skagit Regional Health’s providers are part of a full continuum of care available for patients with midto late-stage Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), hypertension or other kidney diseases, with a goal of halting the progression of chronic illness.

With proper management, support and continuity of care, patients can stabilize and avoid unnecessary hospitalizations. Skagit Regional Health offers one-on-one education, management of high blood pressure or CKD, nutrition classes and personalized diet planning to meet a patient’s individual needs.

Skagit Regional Health Nephrology is located at 208 Hospital Parkway, Suite B, in Mount Vernon. To make an appointment, call 360-814-2600.

About our providers: Matthew Novak, MD, joined Skagit Regional Health in 2018.

He is a graduate of Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia, completed his residency at Guthrie/Robert Packer Hospital in Pennsylvania and a fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. He is board certified in nephrology.

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Wanwarat Ananthapanyasut, MD joined Skagit Regional Health in 2016. She is board certified in nephrology.

She earned her medical degree and completed an internship and residency at Chiang Mai University in Thailand, followed by an internship and residency at the University of Illinois at Chicago in Oak Lawn, Illinois. She completed her nephrology fellowship at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles and a transplant nephrology fellowship at the Virginia Commonwealth University Health System.

Eugene de Guzman, MD joined Skagit Regional Health in 2018. He is board certified in nephrology.

He received his medical degree from the University of the Philippines - College of Medicine in Manila and completed an internal medicine residency at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center in Chicago followed by a nephrology fellowship at Texas A&M - Scott & White Memorial Hospital in Temple, Texas.

Sleep Medicine physician expands practice in Smokey Point Skagit Regional Health’s Sleep Medicine program is expanding to offer physician visits one day per week in Smokey Point and moving to new quarters at Skagit Valley Hospital in Mount Vernon.

In April, Sleep Medicine Specialist Hyung Park, MD started seeing patients every Tuesday in the Smokey Point clinic. The rest of the week, he sees patients in the recently relocated office within Skagit Valley Hospital in Mount Vernon.

The most common complaints Dr. Park said he hears from patients are around insomnia and potential sleep apnea. In addition, he sees patients for restless leg, circadian rhythm disorders and narcolepsy.

Insomnia is characterized by difficulty falling and/or staying asleep.

“That’s the biggest one I hear about,” Dr. Park said. “That can really effect a person’s quality of life.”

Sleep apnea is also a common problem and involves what Dr. Park calls the “big three:” Snoring, witnessed pauses in breathing and sleep and excessive drowsiness. According to the National Sleep Foundation, more than

18 million American adults have sleep apnea and the prevalence can be as high as 10 percent among all ages.

The most common treatment for sleep apnea is a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) device, featuring a mask that fits over the mouth and nose that blows air into the airway to keep it open during sleep. Other options, Dr. Park said, can include mouth guards, surgery, implanted stimulators, position therapy (sleeping on your side) and lifestyle changes can help, such as weight loss.

Home sleep studies are also becoming more common and are often covered by insurance for younger, healthy patients. A home sleep study involves sending the patient home with what Dr. Park calls a “relatively simple device” that has just a few wires to hook up. “We teach them how to do it,” he said, noting the device’s sensors take readings during sleep and store them in the machine for review by a tech when the patient returns it the next day.

Home studies are limited to specific situations when patients are suspected of having obstructive sleep apnea.

More complex cases require a sleep study at the Center for Sleep Disorders, a six-bed facility accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine at Skagit Valley Hospital in Mount Vernon. Overnight and daytime studies are available. For overnight studies, patients arrive in the evening, checking in at Diagnostic Imaging Registration at Skagit Valley Hospital, and can head home or to work at 6 a.m.

Several occupations require sleep studies including pilots, boat captains, commercial vehicle drivers, train conductors and air traffic controllers.

Often these are daytime studies for those who work overnight.

“Not everyone sleeps at night, some sleep during the day,” said Robert Mortensen, RRT, Regional Director of Respiratory Therapy, Cardiopulmonary and Sleep Medicine for Skagit Regional Health. “We can be flexible and our times can be variable for patients based on their sleep schedule.”

Our provider

Our locations

Recommendations for good sleep

Hyung Park, MD, joined Skagit Regional Health in 2018. He is a graduate of Meharry Medical College School of Medicine in Nashville and completed his internship, residency and fellowship at DartmouthHitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire.

He is board certified in sleep medicine.

IN MOUNT VERNON: 1415 E. Kincaid Street, adjacent to the Center for Sleep Disorders on the first floor of Skagit Valley Hospital.

IN SMOKEY POINT: 3823 172nd St., NE. To make an appointment, call 360-428-2586

• Make time to get adequate sleep: For the typical person, that is eight hours, however that can decrease slightly as people age.

• Have a consistent schedule: Go to bed and get up at the same time each day.

• Exercise in the morning.

• Avoid alcohol: It can cause nighttime wakefulness.

• Limit or avoid caffeine.

• Quit smoking: It makes apnea and snoring worse.

Spring 2019

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Cancer Screening

Recommendations

Experts from The American Cancer Society (ACS) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) have developed the following screening guidelines to increase the chances of detecting cancer at its earliest, most treatable stage.

Remember, early detection is your best protection against cancer.

Breast Cancer Screening

Mammography is the main tool used to screen for breast cancer, using x-ray technology to view the breasts and detect any abnormalities.

AGES Annual 40-55 Mammography

AGES 55 +

Discuss option of annual or every-other-year Mammography

TO SCHEDULE YOUR MAMMOGRAM PLEASE CALL: Mount Vernon: 360-428-7275

Arlington: 360-435-0515

Prostate Cancer Screening

Prostate cancer baseline screening (PSA-Prostate Specific Antigen and DREdigital rectal exam) for men includes talking with their healthcare provider to determine their risk level and then following these screening guidelines: HIGH RISK

AGES Baseline PSA 40-45 and DRE

INCREASED RISK

AGES 45 +

AVERAGE RISK

Baseline PSA and DRE

AGES Baseline PSA 50-69 and DRE

Colorectal Cancer Screening Talk to your healthcare provider to determine your risk factors for developing colorectal cancer and to discuss the screening options available to you.

WOMEN & MEN

AGE Colonoscopy 45+ every 10 years

WOMEN & MEN

Please Call: 360-814-5739

AGE Discuss your needs 80+ with your doctor

Lung Cancer Screening

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommends that healthy adults at HIGH risk for lung cancer should talk to their doctor about screening with low dose computed tomography (LDCT).

An adult at high risk is defined as the following:

AGES 55-74

30 pack years or more of smoking

AND

Quit smoking less than 15 years ago

AGES 50 +

20 pack year or more of smoking

AND

Other risk factor(s) such as contact with radon or asbestos, history of lung disease, history of other cancers, or family history of lung cancer

- OR -

If you meet the criteria for a HIGH risk adult, talk with your health care provider about a LDCT screening exam.

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TO SCHEDULE YOUR COLONOSCOPY

Construction begins Skagit Imaging Pavilion will be home to state-of-the-art mammography

New cath lab open, features amazing images of the heart ABOVE: Interventional Cardiologist Sanjeev Vaderah, MD shows Skagit Regional Health Commissioners Gary Shand and Frei Burton the features of the new cardiac catheterization lab during an open house at Skagit Valley Hospital. The new equipment provides excellent, focused images of the arteries and veins, which are key to Skagit Regional Health’s cardiologists’ ability to identify a blockage or narrowing of an artery and use a catheter to fix the problem with a stent or angioplasty.

Annually, nearly 800 patients have procedures in the cardiac cath labs at Skagit Valley Hospital.

Construction started in early 2019 for the 8,000-square-foot Skagit Imaging Pavilion, a partnership of Skagit Regional Health and Skagit Radiology.

The Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation has committed to raise $2 million to help build and equip the Women’s Imaging Center portion of the building, (see page 32 for campaign information).

The new facility will be a convenient, central location for patients to receive state-of-the-art imaging services, including Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (3D mammography) in the Women’s Imaging Center, along with ultrasound, CT, MRI and stereotactic breast biopsy.

“We are looking forward to providing women in our community with the very best in breast cancer screening technology,” said Barbara Jensen, RN, BSN, MBA, Director of Oncology and Palliative Care at Skagit Regional Health. “Reducing the false positive rate for screening mammography will be a big step towards ensuring that women are keeping up with their screening schedule. Early detection is the best protection we can offer to beat breast cancer.”

The modern facility is located at the corner of 13th and Division streets in Mount Vernon and is due to open in fall 2019.

Midwifery returns to Mount Vernon Skagit Regional Health is expanding the midwifery program with the recent recruitment of two additional midwives which will restart the program in Mount Vernon and expand services in Arlington.

Jessica Hurwitz, CNM, joined Arlington Women’s Health in late April, working alongside Cindy Beske, CNM. Becky Knight, CNM, started her practice at Skagit Regional Health in February, marking the return of midwifery at Skagit Regional Health in Mount Vernon.

“We are very pleased to continue to expand our midwifery program,” said Pam New, BSN, RN, Director of Women’s Health and Pediatrics. “Our Certified Nurse Midwives offer a unique birth experience that is a partnership with the patient and family, while in the

hospital birth center. This allows them to create an experience that is tailored to personal preferences and health needs while utilizing the benefits of hospital resources.”

Certified Nurse Midwives are independent health care providers who specialize in women’s health, including pregnancy and delivery as well as general women’s wellness and health care exams.

Midwives care for low- and moderaterisk pregnancies, and can potentially co-manage higher-risk patients with a physician.

Midwives provide well-woman care including annual exams and pap smears.

For information about the midwifery program, contact Arlington Women’s Health at 360-435-0242 or Mount Vernon Women’s Health at 360-428-2575.

Spring 2019

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LEFT: Kathie Schroeder enjoys watching her son, Jonathan, play lacrosse.

Arlington patient finds

SMOOTH CONTINUUM from urgent care to orthopedics Kathie Schroeder and her husband Ken have spent the last 18 years raising their two sons, Jonathan and Sam, in Arlington.

“You hope that they make good choices and you try to train them up right,” said Kathie. “It’s fun to see them grow up and become their own person.”

The Schroeders have been a part of growing the sport of lacrosse in their community. Jonathan’s speed and agility training along with his academic achievements were helping him reach his next goal of playing lacrosse at the university level. He had taken it upon himself to connect with coaches across the country throughout the recruiting process.

“One of my goals this year was to really think about all of the ways we needed to get him ready to be on his own and in college, and that’s everything from making sure he knows how to do his laundry to changing the oil in the car,” said Kathie.

After an accident, Kathie found herself in the Urgent Care waiting room with Jonathan guiding her son through the healthcare system.

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As they began navigating Jonathan’s care, Kathie recalled that from her initial interaction at check in, the friendly and empathetic Medical Assistants, to the patient’s first approach by the provider, the Skagit Regional Health team streamlined the process to get Jonathan the care he needed quickly and conveniently.

She also noted that the best care comes from respect and clear communication.

“When you include the person in the process and the decision making, you’re educating them. They’re going to follow their care program better and they’re going to want to listen to you, believe what you have to say,” she said.

Sean Burson, FNP, the provider assigned to Jonathan’s case, introduced himself to Kathie and proceeded to work directly with Jonathan, focusing on his needs and care with compassion.

“It was all about Jonathan, figuring out what had happened and making sure there weren’t other injuries that we hadn’t noticed or considered,” she recalled.

Sean’s demeanor was a relief for Kathie.

“I didn’t want to have to be mama bear. I didn’t want to find the energy somewhere else to have to assert myself and be my son’s advocate. I was working from a place of emotional weakness,” recalled Kathie.

Unfortunately, the reality of his situation affected far more than the next few weeks of Jonathan’s life. They learned that he had a broken bone in his hand, one that requires an extended healing time.

“That’s sort of when everything went south, as far as emotionally,” Kathie recalled. “He had plans. It was hard enough to deal with the fact that he’d been in this accident, but the potential ramifications at that point is what hit us the most.”

Kathie and Jonathan were facing a host of unknowns when they were referred to Orthopedics and Sports Medicine specialist Jimmy Dang, DO. “I was familiar with Dr. Dang. If we’re going to go somewhere, he’s a great doctor to go to,” said Kathie. “Kids take their cues from the parents, and if the parents are anxious, they’re going to be anxious.”

Kathie continued to experience the same high level of care all the way through Jonathan’s recovery. The Orthopedics and Sports Medicine clinic maintains a high-caliber team of professionals serving the local community.

“He [Dr. Dang] cares. He wants whatever the physical injury is, or ailment, to have no negative impact, and if he can, make an improvement,” noted Kathie. “He was always really calm, patient and seemed to have as much time as we needed.”

They found that the support and care was consistent from Urgent Care to Orthopedics. Appointments were conducive to Jonathan’s school schedule and were close to Kathie’s work at Skagit Regional Health. They didn’t have to schedule follow-ups months in advance and didn’t wait long when they arrived.

“Any time you interface with the healthcare system, you need to be your own advocate,” Kathie said. “When he goes off to college, if he gets sick, I’m not going to be there. He’s going to need to understand the healthcare system, what works, what doesn’t, what questions to ask and that he needs to speak up for himself.”

When their patience began to wane, Kathie reached out to Dr. Dang inquiring if surgery might speed things up. Dr. Dang contacted her directly, advocating against surgical intervention.

“I thought that was really wise and prudent, and I really appreciated the fact that he called me personally,” she recalled. “Skagit Regional Health is a group of caregivers who truly care about the people in their community.”

Beyond the unknowns for Jonathan’s care and recovery, the Schroeders were new to the college recruiting process and weren’t sure how this injury would affect Jonathan’s lacrosse aspirations.

“It’s frightening to let them go off and be in places that you don’t have control of,” said Kathie.

Jonathan proceeded with his planned recruiting tours wearing a brace and continued treatment under the care of Dr. Dang. The coaches were not deterred by his setback.

He was cleared to participate on his high school varsity basketball team; and secured a scholarship to study business and represent Baldwin Wallace College in Berea, Ohio on the men’s lacrosse team.

SkagitRegionalHealth.org

Skagit Regional Health to launch a unified, mobile-first website for patients Skagit Regional Health will soon flip the switch to launch a new, mobile-first website for patients.

The project took a full year to complete and was built specifically with patient needs in mind.

“Skagit Regional Health continues to grow and change,” said Brian Ivie, Chief Executive Officer. “We are excited to have a website that provides easy access to the information patients seek and keeps our communities informed about the exciting changes happening inside our system.”

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE MOBILE-FIRST?

A mobile-first website is built differently for a mobile device, taking smaller screen sizes and how devices are held into account. For example, the menu appears in the upper right corner on the desktop version of the new website, but is conveniently located by your thumb at the bottom of the screen on a

mobile phone. With nearly half of the SkagitRegionalHealth.org website traffic coming from a mobile device, either a cell phone or a tablet, it was important to build a website to offer a great user experience on mobile systems.

The new SkagitRegionalHealth.org website represents all 25 locations in the Skagit Regional Health system and provides information on nearly 450 providers on the medical staff.

“This organization is always looking forward when it comes to technology,” said Ivie. “To be offering this top-notch online experience is pretty exciting.”

WEBSITE BY THE NUMBERS:

12 months to build website 1.6 million words written 36 videos posted 14 patient stories 25 locations 45% of website visits come from a mobile device (phone or tablet)

Spring 2019

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Skagit Regional Health

around the REGION HOSPICE OF THE NORTHWEST IS NUMBER ONE

GERM BUSTERS IS BACK! Parent Volunteer Mary Curley brought the Germ Busters Program to nearly 230 kindergarteners and first graders at Eagle Creek Elementary School in Arlington on February 19 and 20. The program focuses on teaching the proper way to wash hands, which is the single most important way to prevent the spread of infection.

This visit marks the return of the Germ Busters program in the area and is a collaboration between Skagit Regional Health and Public Hospital District 3, Stilly Valley Health Connections.

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Hospice of the Northwest was awarded the #1 ranking in the nation

by Modern Healthcare’s Best Places to Work in 2018. After placing in the top 100 two years running, Hospice of the Northwest was the only provider in the state in 2018 to make this prestigious list.

Modern Healthcare’s Best Places to Work in Healthcare recognition program honors workplaces throughout the healthcare industry that empower their employees to provide patients and customers with the best possible care, products and services.

“Our agency is multifaceted and interdisciplinary and I believe that’s the reason we’re so successful,” said Katie Davis, MSW. “We support each other and are passionate about providing individualized and interdisciplinary care to our community through such a difficult stage in life. The hearts of our team make us number one!”

Hospice of the Northwest is a joint venture between Public Hospital District 1, Skagit Regional Health and Public Hospital District 304.

BELOW: Bob Laws, Executive Director of Hospice of the Northwest celebrates the agency’s first place recognition.

CHECK OUT OUR VIDEOS Skagit Regional Health’s YouTube channel features a wide variety of videos showcasing our providers and staff who serve the patients of our communities, including Arlington Pediatrician Rosanna Go, MD. Enjoy videos about services from pediatrics to cancer care, patient stories and provider profiles that show our providers at work and play. www.youtube.com/skagitregionalhealth

NEW PATIENT BEDS ARRIVE

New patient beds arrived at Cascade Valley Hospital in Arlington and Skagit Valley Hospital in Mount Vernon in March to improve patient comfort and safety.

Skagit Regional Health ordered 120 new Hill-Rom beds for patients in the two acute care hospitals as an initiative to improve the patient and employee experience. This represents an investment of more than $1 million.

The new Centrella beds offer improved safety and features. For patients, the design and improved alarms will assist with falls prevention. The bed side rail has an electronic port for charging cell phones, iPads, Kindle, Nook and other devices for convenience.

The beds also promote patient safety with a visual indicator that shows the bed is locked and the bed alarm is on which can be seen from the hallway. They also have an innovative mattress to decrease pressure ulcers.

For employees, the beds are designed for easier transfer of patients to help avoid employee injuries as they assist in sliding the patient to the top of the bed with minimal staff assistance and have a “Slide Guard” feature that helps prevent patients from sliding down in bed.

Hospital Parkway Plaza

NEW NAME: HOSPITAL PARKWAY PLAZA The former Skagit Valley Kidney Center building will now be known as Hospital Parkway Plaza. The building is located at 208 Hospital Parkway, just north of Skagit Valley Hospital in Mount Vernon.

Fresenius occupies Suite A in the building and offers outpatient dialysis services.

In Suite B, services include Skagit Regional Clinics – Nephrology, the Wound Healing Center and the Sonya Beard Hyperbaric Oxygen Program.

CVH WOUND CARE & HYPERBARIC MEDICINE CENTER EARNS HONORS The Cascade Valley Hospital Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine Center in Arlington has received the Center of Distinction Award for 2018, which results in the Center of Excellence Award from Healogics.

A facility must achieve honors as a Center of Distinction two years in a row to qualify as a Center of Excellence. This is the third time that the program has achieved this award since 2009. The last time was in 2013.

“We are extremely pleased to achieve this honor once again for our program offering excellent patient care and outstanding outcomes,” said Jola Barnett, MBA, Regional Vice President of Operations for Skagit Regional Health.

As a Center of Excellence, the program achieves or exceeds outstanding clinical and operational results for 2018 including 92 percent or higher patient satisfaction, 91 percent or higher healing rate in 30 days or fewer and 19 percent or lower outlier rate.

The team of providers serving patients in Arlington includes General Surgeon Peter Wolff, MD; Wound Care Specialist David Dunnington, MD; Podiatrist Michael Riojas, DPM; Podiatrist Todd Skiles, DPM and Ruth Wolff, ARNP. In the announcement, Healogics’ CEO David Bassin notes: “This award is incredibly important. It demonstrates your center’s continued and consistent commitment to our patients and hospital partners, and a focus on creating an exceptional patient experience.”

Spring 2019

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Honoring the contributions of Hospice volunteers During National Healthcare Volunteer Week in April, Hospice of the Northwest honored the 66 dedicated volunteers from our community who ensure that patients and families facing serious and life-limiting illness find care, compassion and support.

“Hospice volunteers play an indispensable role in enabling Hospice of the Northwest to offer the best care possible for our patients, their families and caregivers,” said Executive Director Bob Laws.

“By sharing their time, energy and expertise, our volunteers bring compassion and caring to the lives of those in need.”

It is federally mandated under Medicare that five percent of all patient care hours be provided by trained volunteers, reflecting the vital role that volunteers play in the provision of care.

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The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization reports that there are approximately 430,000 trained hospice volunteers providing more than 19 million hours of service to hospice programs each year. An estimated 1.6 million patients in the United States are cared for by hospice every year.

During 2018, Hospice of the Northwest volunteers donated 5,232 hours and a total of 21 percent of all patients received at least one face-to-face visit from a volunteer.

The Volunteer Services Program is funded by generous donors in our community offering highquality training, education and support for each of our volunteers.

Hospice volunteers often serve patients and families at the bedside but they also assist in the office, help raise awareness, contribute

to educational programs and provide fund-raising support. Most hospice volunteers choose to give their time helping others because of their own experience with the compassionate care hospice provided to a dying loved one.

Kathy, a Hospice of the Northwest volunteer, shared the following: “Human relationships are the heart of the matter, and Hospice of the Northwest offers a very carefully and thoughtfully designed way to provide meaningful relationships during a fundamental time of transition.”

For more information about hospice or volunteer opportunities, go to www.hospicenw.org.

BELOW: More than 60 community volunteers dedicate their time to the patients of Hospice of the Northwest.

ABOVE: Darlene Mindrum, left, and Bereavement Coordinator Diane Hart at the ‘Celebration of Generosity.’

ABOVE: Hospice of the Northwest Foundation supporters make a big impact in patient care.

A Celebration of Generosity

Dedicated and generous donors, staff, volunteers, trustees, and community members came together on February 21, 2019 for a “Celebration of Generosity” to pay tribute to the significant impact donor funding has on the care that Hospice of the Northwest provides. In 2018, donor funding provided more than $535,000 in support of expert and compassionate hospice care. Donor funds enhance programs such as volunteer services, bereavement services, complementary therapy, staff education, medical equipment and technology and hospice services for those who are not, or are under, insured.

During the event, Hospice of the Northwest Assistant Medical Director Leslie Estep, MD explained how pediatric hospice care works alongside curative treatments and enhances quality of life for both the patient and family. She further explained that pediatric hospice care is especially complicated as children are both more fragile and more resilient than adults. Parents of children with complicated health conditions endure both logistical challenges and difficult decisions on whether to continue treatments or forego them to receive care at home focused on comfort. Thanks to changes in insurance, many children now qualify for “concurrent care in

pediatrics” which allows parents to enroll their child in hospice services while continuing to receive advanced care that attempts to cure or reverse the disease. This program allows children to have the best of both worlds: access to pediatric specialists who know their child well and access to hospice care in the home.

Several Hospice of the Northwest staff described how donor funds have impacted the patients and families they care for. Deana Strom, Hospice of the Northwest Spiritual Counselor, told an especially moving story about a family whose child was receiving care and the unique ways donor funds helped provide a better quality of life for the family.

Wendy Rohrbacher, Hospice of the Northwest Foundation Executive Director, closed the program by thanking donors for their enthusiasm and generosity, she also reminded them that their “generosity not only helps hospice patients, but also their loved ones and our whole community. Your gifts provide hope, comfort and laughter.

Your gifts provide dignity and compassion every moment of life.”

To learn more about or to make a donation to Hospice of the Northwest Foundation, visit www. hospicenw.org/foundation or call 360-814-5702.

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. If you would like more information about the Foundation or Hospice of the Northwest services, please visit our website, www.hospicenw.org, or call (360) 814-5702.

Spring 2019

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New Providers in Arlington, Stanwood,

Camano Island PEDIATRICS

Lizette Antig, MD

Specialty: Pediatrics Location: Skagit Regional Health – Arlington Pediatrics Education: Dr. Antig earned her medical degree from the University of the Philippines. She completed Pediatric residency training at Saint Barnabas Hospital in Bronx, NY. During her free time, Dr. Antig enjoys doing fun activities with her family, especially playing with her two little boys.

To schedule an appointment, please call 360-435-6525.

FAMILY MEDICINE

FAMILY MEDICINE

Cathy Chen, PA-C

Specialty: Family Medicine Location: Skagit Regional Health – Arlington Family Medicine Education: Chen completed a Bachelor of Science at the University of Washington in Seattle and earned a Master of Health Services – Physician Assistant Studies degree from the University of California, Davis.

Chen’s special interests include geriatrics and women’s health. Outside of the office, she enjoys hiking and spending time with her family and two dogs.

To schedule an appointment, please call 360-435-8810.

Zackary Hanson, PA-C

Specialty: Family Medicine Locations: Skagit Regional Clinics – Stanwood and Skagit Regional Clinics – Camano Island Education: Hanson completed a Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Midwestern University in Glendale, AZ. Hanson has a special interest in Sports Medicine. Outside of the office, he can be found hiking, fishing and exploring the Pacific Northwest with his wife.

To schedule an appointment, please call 360-629-1600.

New Providers in Mount Vernon CARDIOLOGY

Naseem Ghazanfari, MD

Specialty: Cardiology Location: Skagit Regional Clinics – Mount Vernon Cardiology Education: Dr. Ghazanfari completed medical school at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in Iran followed by Internal Medicine residency at Southern Illinois University.

She completed a Heart Failure Fellowship and Cardiovascular Fellowship, both at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center.

To schedule an appointment, please call 360-336-9757.

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NEPHROLOGY

Eugene de Guzman, MD

Specialty: Nephrology Location: Hospital Parkway Plaza Education: Dr. de Guzman completed medical school at the University of the Philippines in Manila. He went on to complete an Internal Medicine residency at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center in Chicago followed by a Nephrology fellowship at Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine - Scott & White Memorial Hospital in Temple, Texas.

To schedule an appointment, please call 360-814-2600.

NEPHROLOGY

Matthew Novak, MD

Specialty: Nephrology Location: Hospital Parkway Plaza Education: Dr. Novak earned his medical degree from Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia. He completed Internal Medicine residency training at Guthrie/Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, PA followed by a Nephrology fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

To schedule an appointment, please call 360-814-2600.

CARDIOLOGY

Devyn Nixon, ARNP

Specialty: Cardiology Location: Skagit Regional Clinics – Mount Vernon Cardiology Education: Nixon completed a Master of Science in Nursing from Gonzaga University in Spokane.

Nixon worked in various positions at Skagit Regional Health, including as a cardiovascular lab technician, staff nurse and RN Clinical Supervisor, for 13 years before returning to school to become an ARNP. To schedule an appointment, please call 360-336-9757.

GASTROENTEROLOGY

Megan McMahon, PA-C

Specialty: Gastroenterology Location: Skagit Regional Clinics – Mount Vernon Education: McMahon completed a Master of Physician Assistant Studies at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in New Hampshire. She also has a Master of Science in Nutrition from Bastyr University in Kenmore and training as a Nutrition Support Fellow.

To schedule an appointment, please call 360-814-6113.

GASTROENTEROLOGY

Brittany Rowan, PA-C

Specialty: Gastroenterology Location: Skagit Regional Clinics – Mount Vernon Education: Rowan complete a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Pacific University in Hillsboro, OR. Rowan previously worked in Skagit Regional Clinics’ General Surgery and Plastic Surgery departments where she would prepare patients for surgery, serve as first assistant in the OR, round on inpatients and see outpatients.

To schedule an appointment, please call 360-814-6113.

MIDWIFERY

Becky Knight, CNM

Specialty: Midwifery Location: Skagit Regional Clinics – Mount Vernon Education: Knight completed a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at University of Rochester in New York. She earned a Master of Science in Midwifery from Frontier Nursing University in Hyden, KY. Knight said she enjoys helping women navigate pregnancy and labor. She often incorporates other facets of health into the care she provides. Her special interests include the postpartum period, contraception and sexual health.

To schedule an appointment, please call 360-428-2575.

CARDIOLOGY

Therese Dumas, ARNP

Specialty: Cardiology Location: Skagit Regional Clinics – Mount Vernon Cardiology Education: Dumas completed a Master of Science in Nursing at the University of California in Los Angeles.

Dumas has special interest in congestive heart failure, dyslipidemia and electrophysiology. Outside of the office she enjoys reading and football.

To schedule an appointment, please call 360-336-9757.

ORTHOPEDICS

Peter Frey, PA-C

Specialty: Orthopedics Location: Skagit Regional Clinics – Riverbend Education: Frey earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from University of Washington, Bothell and completed a Master of Clinical Health Services – Physician Assistant Studies degree at the University of Washington in Seattle.

Frey also enjoys assisting and orthopedic and spine surgeries and helping patients to live their lives as productively and as pain-free as possible.

To schedule an appointment, please call 360-814-6800.

PEDIATRICS

Erika Lund, MD

Specialty: Pediatrics Location: Skagit Pediatrics Education: Dr. Lund graduated from Washington State University and earned a Doctor of Medicine at New York Medical College. She completed a pediatric residency at the University of Washington including training at Seattle Children’s, Harborview Medical Center and University of Washington Medical Center.

Dr. Lund provides a patient and family centered practice with a focus on information sharing to make sure the families are comfortable, know the options and are involved in healthcare decision making.

To schedule an appointment, please call 360-428-2622.

PEDIATRICS

Alicia Spiess, DNP, ARNP, PPCNP-BC

Specialty: Pediatrics Location: Skagit Pediatrics Education: Spiess received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of New Mexico College of Nursing and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Washington College of Nursing.

Spiess, who has had a life-long goal to be a Nurse Practitioner and work with children, takes a holistic, family centered approach to care with a focus on wellness, chronic disease prevention and the individual needs of the patient.

To schedule an appointment, please call 360-428-2622.

We are actively recruiting primary care and specialty providers to improve access to care for our patients. 2018 was a record year with 27 new providers joining Skagit Regional Health. An additional 16 providers are on track to join SRH during the remainder of 2019, including new specialists in women’s health and neurology. Check our website to find a provider near you!

www.skagitregionalhealth.org Spring 2019

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We’re listening to you!

Now offering expanded clinic hours

24/ 7 BECAUSE HEALTH IS

Manage your healthcare anytime, anywhere. + Request appointments + View test & lab results + Request medication refills + Ask questions and more*

REGISTER TODAY: SkagitRegionalHealth.org/MyChart

*Patient privacy and safety are very important to us.

Some MyChart features will become available after a clinical visit with your provider, to make sure that all medical information is accurate before this data is brought into your MyChart account. You may contact your provider through the portal if you have questions.

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Let’s face it – we’re all busy and finding a convenient time to visit the doctor can be a challenge. We have heard from patients that they would like to have the ability to seek care earlier in the morning and later in the evening. In response, several Skagit Regional Heath primary care and specialty departments have expanded hours.

Significant emphasis has been placed on increasing clinical hours at Skagit Regional Health’s primary care offices.

Family Medicine locations in Stanwood and Camano Island added later evening hours in Summer 2018 and Arlington Family Medicine recently followed their lead, now keeping their doors open later two evenings per week.

“We’ve seen tremendous and very positive response to the extended hours in our Arlington, Stanwood and Camano Island clinics,” said Family Medicine physician David Escobar, DO. “Patients love being able to come to the clinic after work, or schedule their kids’ appointments after school or sports practice. In fact, we have added an extra Family Medicine provider in Stanwood on our extended-hour evenings. We are so happy to be able to provide these extended hours; it is one further step forward in earning our community’s trust to be the Arlington and Stanwood – Camano communities’ choice for a medical home.”

Clinical departments in Skagit Regional Health’s northern area also offer patients a wider window in which to seek care. Family Medicine offices in Mount Vernon offer a variety of early morning and evening appointment options. Skagit Regional Clinics’ Pediatrics office at the Riverbend location in Mount Vernon is open extended hours during the week, from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“We continually look for ways to improve the service and care that we provide. Offering extended hours, either by opening clinics earlier in the morning or staying open later, gives our patients more flexibility when receiving care,” said Sara Hebel, Administrator of Clinic Operations for Skagit Regional Health. “We know it can be difficult to balance all of the activities that are a part of daily life. Offering additional hours for appointments makes it easier for patients to get the care they need in a timely way, with less impact on daily life.”

Skagit Regional Health offers extended hours in several specialty clinics and in all three Urgent Care locations. Urgent Care providers treat non-life threatening illnesses and injuries without an appointment seven days a week. All Urgent Care locations, Mount Vernon, Riverbend and Smokey Point, are open weekdays 7:30 a.m. to 7: 30 p.m. and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends.

For more information about Skagit Regional Health’s clinic locations and hours go to www.SkagitRegionalHealth.org.

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Reflecting back on the past year, I am overwhelmed with the generosity and dedication to quality health care here in the Skagit Valley and beyond. Thanks to our thoughtful donors and friends, in 2018 we raised $1,030,739 in donations, an incredible testament to the strength of our community. Your generosity allowed us to give back $327,629 to Skagit Regional Health in grants for various departments throughout the hospital and clinics.

In April 2018, we began a capital campaign to raise $2 million to support Skagit Regional Health, in trusted partnership with Skagit Radiology, to build the Women’s Imaging Center. This new, modern facility will have sophisticated imaging technology, including 3D Digital Breast Tomosynthesis mammography.

This is an invaluable opportunity to revolutionize breast cancer care in our region. This center ensures breast cancer patients in our community will have access to comprehensive, innovative, compassionate care. We are committed to completing this campaign by the end of 2019.

Thank you for supporting, attending, volunteering at, and sponsoring our annual events, including the Festival of Trees, Par Tee Golf Classic and Have a Heart Dinner. These events are made possible by the generous spirit and remarkable grace of our local and regional community.

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 throughout Skagit Regional Health. The Foundation is dedicated to quality, patient-focused care in our region and we look forward to our continued partnership with our community.

On behalf of the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees and staff, I extend our deepest thanks.

With gratitude,

Jill Pickering, President Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation

2018 ANNUAL REPORT The Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation is forever grateful to our 2018 donors who generously gave gifts totaling more than

$1,030,739

These gifts were received in the form of cash, stock, pledges, event proceeds, in-kind gifts and bequests.

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In turn, the Foundation was pleased to provide the following grants totaling

$327,629 to support specific programs and services at Skagit Regional Health.

$3,000 Cardiac Care

$5,000 Emergency Services

$7,386

Kidney Dialysis

OUR DONORS With sincere gratitude to our community for your support, the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation proudly presents our annual report for the year 2018.

Jeff & Linda Frizzell Karen Fure G & D Wallace, Inc. Veronica Garcia Bethany Gilbertson glassybaby White Light Fund Leslie Goff Stacy Gonzales Patricia Good Nicholas & Sara Governale Patricia Grenfell Lisa Grentz Bill & Barbara Gurney Neil & Susan Hall Narajanti Handaja Frank & Lynn Handy Dr. Joshua & Jacqueline Hawkins Jerry & Sharon Hayes Michael & Sara Hebel Dick Hedblom Isaac Hedblom Elise Hemenway Cindy Hencheroff Sean & Debbie Hendricks Barry & Karen Hiatt Jama Hiltz Dr. Mary Ann Hink Ed & Judy Hjort Joseph & Cathlyn Holton Brandon & Jessica Hoover Dorothy Howard Glenn & Alicia Huschka

We apologize for any incorrect or misspelled names that may appear in any of our listings. Please help us maintain accurate donor records by notifying the Foundation office of any errors by calling 360-814-8376. Donations listed were received January 1, 2018 through December 31, 2018.

The Women’s Imaging Center Kathleen Abhold Rebecca Allen Kelli Anderson Daniel & Maureen Anderson Arrow Conservation Monica Baca Baird Foundation, Inc. Heritage Bank Zachary & Adele Barborinas Randy & Theresa Bartelt Julie Blazek & Jacque Beamer Bellingham Anesthesia Associates, P.S. Joe & Kate Biringer Cheryl Bishop Dr. Lyall & Judy Bishop Blade Chevrolet Hope Bodker Agnes Bollema Kelly Bradford Jill Burrington-Brown Lisa Buller Benjamin & Frei Burton Sharon Carroll Bev Carter

Patricia De Carteret Herald & Dyan Catlin Dr. Richard & Bonnie Cavell Robert & Tamara Cesena Richard & Linda Chambers Geoff & Jill Christensen Yvonne Christos COA Mexican Eatery Mount Vernon Gregg & Kati Collins CPI Plumbing & Heating Jeff & Mary June Curtis Norman & Pat Dahlstedt Dominique Dailly Bryce Dickie Karen Dingeman Justin & Kylee Dowe Susan Duffy Laurie Durick Rosemary Eldousoky Shirley Entrikin Dr. John & Marie Erbstoeszer John & Cindy Faber Cheryl Farley Robert & Cheri Fiedler Kenneth Fiedler Fraternal Order of Eagles Ladies Auxiliary #3041

Pat Hyatt Dane & Brianna Jacobs Nancy Jenny Earl L. & Katherine H. Jensen Chris & Barbara Jensen Cecilia & Robert Johnson Rev. Mark & Linda Johnson Chris & Lindy Johnson John Forde Jr. Steve & Katie Jungquist Hugh & Diana Kendrick Kathy Kerkvliet Laura Kirkaldie Karla Klein Nikki Klinger Germaine Kornegay Toby & Michelle Knutzen Rick Koglin Frank & Nancy Krook La Conner High School Volleyball Booster Club Boyd & Janice Lanier Roxy Larson Shirley Lee Michael Lervick & Dr. Oksana Miller Bruce & Debra Lisser Erin Long Doug & Laurie Lundgren Jonathan & Melissa Lyons Karen Manatt Paige Marken Cathy Marquez

$8,000

$34,231

General/Unrestricted Program Needs

$204,414 Surgical Services

Mental Health

$3,000 Family Birth Center

$9,455

Children’s Therapy Program

$53,143 Cancer Care and the Cancer Care Patient Assistance Fund Spring 2019

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OUR DONORS

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. We are pleased to acknowledge the efforts of our trustees who unselfishly give their time and resources as an example to all, and who provide leadership in the Foundation’s prudent stewardship of gifts.

Zach Barborinas Katie Biringer Julie Blazek Frei Burton Jill Christensen Kati Collins Mary June Curtis Bob Fiedler Jacqueline Hawkins

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

Mike Lervick Holly Nielsen Larry Otos Jill Pickering Brett Simbe Jim Spane Brent Thompson Kris Wollan

S TA F F Linda Frizzell Executive Director

Wendy Ragusa Development Coordinator

Kylee Dowe 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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Andi Martin Ronald Martin Steve and Jan Massey Linda McJunkin Darcy McKinley David & Terri Meekhof Corey Mendoza & Jyl Bruns Leslie Moore MVHS Bulldog Volleyball Booster Club Network For Good Dawn New Paul & Holly Nielsen Worth & Lisa Norton Mathew & Jammie Novak Dr. Matthew Novak Darcy Olsen Terri Olsen Larry & Lisa Otos Carol Parks Glen Robert & Lisa Pate Susan Paulson Keith & Christie Peterson Danny & Jill Pickering Jennifer Pitner Ron & Gailyn Ploeg Mary Jo Poppe Maggie Potter Greg & Shelley Powell MaryAnn Power Roger & Wendy Ragusa Laura Ray Dennis & Janiece Reilly Stan & Charleen Relyea Riverside Health Club Riverstyx Foundation William Roozen Roger & Sandra Saben Dr. Gene Sargent Lisa Sather Betsy Sauther Laurie Schneider Kathie Schroeder Debbie Schwarz Virginia Schwedler Anna Scott Patrick Seaman Sedro-Woolley Riding Club Yolanda Seegmiller Larry & Carol Van Sickle Brett & Nancy Simbe Adele Skinner Cathy Smith Chris Snow Brad & Karissa Sokol Soroptimist International of Burlington

Jim & Lacey Spane Spane Buildings, Inc. Tanya Sparks Andrew & Tabitha Squires Karl Stansbury Mary Stanton Dr. Robert & Carrie Stewart Jeff & Stacy Stewart Susan Straathof Rita L. Sutker Svend & Caitlin Svendsen Tina Tate William & Krista Thomas Florence Thompson Gary & Anne Thompson Brent & Betsey Thompson Erica Turner TWC Golden Girls Mary J. Tyler Andrew Tyler Hector Valdez Janet Van Kirk Laurene Vigoren Thakou Vu Karen Watkins Jill Weber Marlene Wegner Julia Weinberg Darcy Wells Jerry & Carol Whitfield Susan Wilson Judy Wise Harvey & Mary Jo Wolden David & Anna Wolfson Blaine & Kristine Wollan Rob & Rachael Woods Wayne & Joy Wooten Maury & Susan Wright Ruth Wylie Luann Zimmerman

In Honor of Ellen Adelstein Dr. Rick & Tracey Levine

In Honor of Gabriel Axthelm

Erin Van Allen Roger & Peggy Carter Fred Renco

In Honor of Richard & Jaynie Roozen Helga Schink

In Memory of Bernice Bouslog John Bouslog

In Memory of Ruby Van Dorn Mary Hudson

In Memory of Linda Ensley Gerald & Susan Christensen Harold Ensley

In Memory of Brian Hernandez Barbara Dahlstedt

In Memory of Marilyn Lupinacci Melinda Comnick

In Memory of Donna Nelson Renee Fleury

In Memory of Judith Nielsen

Gerald & Susan Christensen

In Memory of Paul E. Nolan Gerald & Susan Christensen

In Memory of Kim Herdt Pflepsen

Mike & Vicki Blade Bob & Margo Frydenlund W. Gary & Catherine Herdt Katie Roberson

In Memory of Rachael Rosenbalm Helga Schink

In Memory of Cecil Williams

Gerald & Susan Christensen

In Memory of Larry Willis Helga Schink

Cancer Care Fund Karen Brown Burlington-Edison High School Associated Student Body Karen Christensen Dominique Dailly Randall & Diane Daniel Elliott W. Johnson Endowment for Cancer Care at the Skagit Community Foundation Bonnie Giebel Jon Hudson Chris & Barbara Jensen Janice Lisherness Mary McGoffin Terry & Tammy McNeil Richard & Anne Perry John & Berdean Ring Skagit Valley USBC Association

Skagit Woodstock Music Festival The Estate of Muriel Higgins Kara Thomas Sarah Thornhill

In Memory of Antonio Alvarado

Socorro Pineda-Alvarado Don & Louise Bottles Janet Carroll Suellen Lemmon Florrie Reep Bill & Marilyn Lupinacci

In Memory of Paul Booker Alfie Hill-Banta

In Memory of Todd Bos Larry & Janette Lund

In Memory of Bruce Brown Jan Edgerton Rick & Linda Flynn Harold & Mary Hanson Karen Vaughan

In Memory of Nada Jean Crabtree Larry & Janette Lund

In Memory of Cathy Dutton Merwyn Dutton Greg & Lisa Lomsdalen

In Memory of Laurice Gaines Jack Maier

In Memory of Russell & Marie Gibbons Ken & Jan Taylor

In Memory of Dr. George Gjerset

John & Pauline Sweeney

In Memory of Lorna Gustafson Dorothy Howard

In Memory of Kenneth Kahn

Larry & Janette Lund

In Memory of Ruthie Keimer

Orran & Lorna Bodin

In Memory of Ken Knutsen Robert & Louisa Lee

In Memory of Ruth Knutzen Roxy Larson

In Memory of Roberta Lane Lavonne Parker

In Memory of Dale Learned Gerald & Susan Christensen

In Memory of Nolan Lee Roger & Leslie Jungquist Jay & Avis Kaemingk

In Memory of John McCain Dorothy Howard

In Memory of Karen Mills Derek & Julie Floyd

In Memory of Rosie Nesheim

Richard & Evelyn Buchanan

In Memory of Jacob Neumiller

In Memory of Jim Stewart Ann Stewart

In Memory of Jim Stull

Fraternal Order of Eagles, Burlington

In Memory of John Vanderwal

Roger & Wendy Ragusa Tom & Sandy Rowley

In Memory of George Wallace

Gerald & Susan Christensen Jon Hudson

Cardiac Care Fund Cheryl & Dean Good Jeff & Amber Rhodes

In Memory of Betty Currington Ruthann Harn

In Memory of Corey Mendoza

Jean Ash Gerald & Susan Christensen

In Memory of Lynn Voss Teresa Voss

Darrell Brunsch

In Memory of Dennis & Judith Pearce Jeffrey & Linda Pearce

Estate Planning/ Living Wills Workshop

In Memory of Jean Hill

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.

In Memory of Marilyn Houser

DATE: JUNE 13, 2019 1 – 2:30 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon Sahale Conference Room No charge, but pre-registration is required.

To pre-register, call 360-814-2424

Ronald Hyatt Chuck & Bertha Rogers Nora Shuler

Shirley Benson Victoria Royal Arturo & Judy Vivanco

In Memory of Bob Huisman Sandra Gordon

This event is sponsored by: Spring 2019

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OUR DONORS Cascade Valley Hospital Rock & Beverly Andrews Cynthia Acosta Yvonne Christos Robert Cockrell Shianne Miller-Hines Michelle Sand Virginia Vanney

Chapel Jim Tippet

Children’s Therapy Program AJ & Ali Berglin Rouw Insurance Agency Zachary & Adele Barborinas Aldi Kllogjeri & Dr. Jennifer Benson

Lennart Bentsen & Dr. Erin Charles Bruce & Dee Berglin Joe & Kate Biringer Dr. Carl & Carmen Bruner Robert & Tamara Cesena CF Business Park LLC Geoff & Jill Christensen Gerald & Susan Christensen Marsha Christofferson Dean & Janice Cunningham

Jeff & Mary June Curtis Mike Dyberg & Dr. Connie Davis Linda Davis Dr. Rosana Go Patricia Grenfell Dr. Joshua & Jacqueline Hawkins Michael & Sara Hebel Sean & Debbie Hendricks Barry & Karen Hiatt

2019 GOLF

Friday, June 28 at the Skagit Golf and Country Club in Burlington Golfing for good. That is what the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation’s Par Tee Golf Classic is all about – a tournament designed for fun fellowship, the spirit of playful competition and the fulfillment of contributing to a good cause. Proceeds from this year’s golf classic will support the Foundation’s Women’s Imaging Center Capital Campaign to purchase state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging equipment for the new center.

We are grateful to past sponsors and golfers who have participated in

our tournament. In the Par Tee’s 15year history, sponsors and golfers have helped to raise $730,000 for Skagit Regional Health’s cancer care, cardiac rehabilitation, family birth center and more. More importantly, this charitable giving has helped make a significant difference for patients and their families receiving hospital and clinic services. We THANK YOU! Giving FORE good is an opportunity for you to play the Par Tee! Sponsorships with player positions are now available.

FOR TOURNAMENT INFORMATION:

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ONLINE: SkagitRegionalHealth.org/Hospital-Foundation PHONE: 360-814-8376 EMAIL: foundation@skagitregionalhealth.org

HKP Architects, LLP James & Glenda Hobbs Glenn & Alicia Huschka Brian & Debi Ivie Chris & Barbara Jensen Dr. Morrie & Marcia Johnson Steve & Katie Jungquist Janet Van Kirk Kiwanis Club of Mount Vernon Mary Kuebelbeck William Jay Lechnick Matt & Susan Lehman Bruce & Debra Lisser Cristal McQueen Michael Lervick & Dr. Oksana Miller Norm Nelson, Inc. Keith & Christie Peterson Danny & Jill Pickering Cecilia Plata Melvin & Dr. Rowena Pusateri Dale & Susan Ragan Roger & Wendy Ragusa Tim & Nancy Raschko Dennis & Janiece Reilly Laura Riquelme Richard & Jaynie Roozen William Roozen SaviBank Helga Schink Nancy Scott Skagit Valley Mobile Manor, LLC Maryl Skjei Jim & Lacey Spane Dr. Robert & Carrie Stewart Jonathon & Renee Stone Bob & Denise Taylor TRICO Companies, LLC Reece Tyler Karen Wanek Craig & Becky Wells Dr. Richard & Elizabeth Williamson Rob & Rachael Woods Dr. Rob Zwick

In Memory of Patricia Brakke

Jerry & Sharon Hayes

Community Education Fund Kimberly Koon Kurt Litvin

Critical Care Unit Frank & Sarah Place Harold Oosterhof

In Honor Of Dr. Oscar Briseno Christopher Finlay

In Memory of Erling Ytgard Reidar & Mildred Ytgard

Family Birth Center Dale Hankins Roy Mercado Vernon & Tammy Ringhouse Ronald & Melinda Schrage

Festival of Trees Live Auction Patrons Brian & Krissa Ammons Zachary & Adele Barborinas Dr. Carl & Carmen Bruner Benjamin & Frei Burton Gerald & Susan Christensen Travis & Kelly Coulter Brian & Jennifer Covey Kirk & Stacy Duffy Paul Dunn & Dr. Michal A Whiton Carol Edwards Jimmy & Timathi Fitzpatrick Laura Hanson Dr. Joshua & Jacqueline Hawkins Bruce & Debra Lisser Dave & Kathy Mariner Sarah Miller Dennis & Connie Milliken Mark & Vickie Nysether Jeff & Tammy O’Donnell Dan & Kristen Ollis Sandi Paciotti Eric & Andrea Van Pelt Dale & Susan Ragan Jeff & Amber Rhodes Jim & Mary Scott Jim & Lacey Spane Andrew & Tabitha Squires Leo & Sharon Cole Waldschmidt Angie Watson Jerry & Carol Whitfield Troy & Angie Wright Jeff & Brenda Zeiger

Festival of Trees Fund-A-Dream Gary & Susan Alexander Brian & Krissa Ammons Travis & Jessica Baldwin Suzi Banta Zachary & Adele Barborinas Randy & Theresa Bartelt Jon & Cecelia Bennett Joe & Kate Biringer Cheryl R. Bishop Thomas & Lesha Boucher Scott & Laura Breckenridge Dr. Carl & Carmen Bruner Jackie Brunson Dr. John T. & Michelle Burke Gerald & Susan Christensen Dave Cram Barbara Dahlstedt Ken Davis Dustin & Shannon Duke Mike Dyberg & Dr. Connie Davis Mike & Jodi Dynes Carol Edwards Pete & Kristie Ellery Jimmy & Timathi Fitzpatrick Tammy Force Patricia Good Patricia Grenfell Claudette Gubrud Steve & Jewell Harmon Dr. Joshua & Jacqueline Hawkins Sean & Debbie Hendricks Barry & Karen Hiatt Brian & Debi Ivie Earl L. & Katherine H. Jensen Ken & Susan Johnson Roger & Leslie Jungquist Mark & Barbara Kaufman Marjorie Kilbreath Tim & Colleen Knutzen Jeff & Shelly Langness Bruce & Debra Lisser Dennis & Connie Milliken Lindsay Mohns Evelyn Morse Paul & Holly Nielsen

Mark & Vickie Nysether Dan & Jan Olson Sandi Paciotti Dr. Vidhu Paliwal Chad & Sheri Paulsen Michael & Dr. Anisa Pea Dan & Kathleen Petrzelka Dottie Piazza Dale & Susan Ragan Steve & Kari Ranten Matt Ray Tammy Reuble Jeff & Amber Rhodes Jill Rohrs Keith & Jacquelynn Russell Mike & Lisa Sargent Jim & Mary Scott Andrew & Tabitha Squires Jeff & Stacy Stewart Jonathon & Renee Stone Dave & Cindy Storrer Mike & Kathy Tarbox Christine Tripp Mary J. Tyler Susan Uker Joey Vanderpol Danny Vera Rich Weyrich Jerry & Carol Whitfield Don Wick Darrell & Leanne Wiseman Blaine & Kristine Wollan Maury & Sue Wright Jeff & Brenda Zeiger

In Memory of Corey Mendoza

Travis & Kelly Coulter

Festival of Trees Sponsors A-1 Mobile Lock & Key, Inc Kathleen Abhold Absolute Plumbing, Inc. Amerigroup Corporation AmeriTeam Services, LLC Archer Halliday Arne Svendsen Trucking Associated Petroleum Products, Inc.

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OUR DONORS Jim & Ann Barborinas Zachary & Adele Barborinas Jolanda Barnett Randy & Theresa Bartelt Bellingham Anesthesia Associates, P.S. Big Fresh Joe & Kate Biringer Cheryl Bishop Blade Chevrolet Julie Blazek & Jacque Beamer Jeffrey & Melissa Brown Peter & Laurel Browning Lisa Buller Jill Burrington-Brown

By Design Auto Group, Inc. Chris & Shaun Cammock Robert & Tamara Cesena Dr. Kiran Chaturvedi Geoff & Jill Christensen Gerald & Susan Christensen Linda Christensen Gregg & Kati Collins Consumer Rental Center, Inc. Dr. Dennis & Vicki Cooley Craft Stove of Western Washington, Inc. Crown Distributing Co. Jeff & Mary June Curtis Davis Wright Tremaine, LLP Dey Company Dwayne Lane’s Auto Family Mike & Tracey Elfstrom Robert & Cheri Fiedler Food Services of America Foothills Auto Center G & D Wallace, Inc. Gilbertson Funeral Home Patricia Grenfell Dr. Joshua Griggs Dr. Paul & Keri Halgren Fran Hansen Katherine Hansen Hansen’s Furniture Dr. Joshua & Jacqueline Hawkins Hawthorne Funeral Home and Memorial Park Jerry & Sharon Hayes Michael & Sara Hebel Sean & Debbie Hendricks Heritage Bank Alfie Hill-Banta Dr. Mary Ann Hink Warren & Shelly Holden Walt Hudson Mary Hudson

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Hughes Farms, Inc. Glenn & Alicia Huschka Paul & Mary Ishizuka Brian & Debi Ivie Ken & Susan Johnson Josephine Caring Community Steve & Katie Jungquist Kern Funeral Home Kiwanis Club of Mount Vernon Dr. Kiarash Kojouri Aldi Kllogjeri & Dr. Jennifer Benson Matt & Susan Lehman Les Schwab Warehouse Center Linde Insurance Lisser & Associates, PLLC Maple Wood Farm, Inc. Michael & Lisette Mast Mexico Cafe Dr. Michal Whiton Miles Sand & Gravel Company Modern Cleaners Molina Healthcare of WA Diane Morton & Wendy Cobb Moss Adams, LLP Mount Vernon Carpet Center Paul & Holly Nielsen Matt & Megan O’Bryan Larry & Lisa Otos Pacific Woodtech Corporation Art Palmer Para Healthcare Peoples Bank Piazza Construction Tony & Bronwyn Pickering Danny & Jill Pickering PRIMAC Electric, LLC Private Lending Investments Public Hospital District #1 Rallye Auto Sales, Inc. Steve & Kari Ranten Reel Class Charters Mark Roetcisoender & Vivian Koetje Rolfson’s Home Furnishings, Inc. William Roozen & Suzie Jungeman Michelle Sand SB&C, Ltd Jeffrey & Deborah Scott Sea-Land Development Corp.

Gary & Judy Shand Sierra Pacific Foundation Brett & Nancy Simbe Skagit Radiology Inc., P.S. Skagit Regional Health

Skagit Valley’s Best Produce, Inc. Adele Skinner Soroptimist International of Burlington Sound Physicians Spee West Construction Co. Anne & Mike Spink State Farm Insurance – Brad Methner Agency State Farm Insurance - Carol Lawson Agency State Farm Insurance - Keith Sorestad Agency Michael Storlie Lynn & Barbara Strauss Structured Communications Swinomish Casino & Lodge The Grand Willow Inn Inc. The Hagen Group, Inc. The Learning Ladder The Net Drive In Thomas Cuisine Management Brent & Betsey Thompson TRICO Companies, LLC Twin City Foods, Inc. Mary J. Tyler Danny & Stephanie Vera Dr. Richard & Laury Volwiler VSH Certified Public Accountants, PLLC Washington State Hospital Association Lloyd & Shirley Watkinson Whidbey Coffee Company Williams & Nulle, PLLC Blaine & Kristine Wollan Rob & Rachael Woods Wycoff Insurance Agency, Inc.

Friday Harbor Seaplanes Stephanie Gage Eddie Gordon Image360 Chris & Barbara Jensen John Peth & Sons Kingma Designs Desiree Lange Julia Lange Lithtex NW Stacey Lyons Maplehurst Farms Marcus Whitman Hotel James & Christina Martin Dennis & Connie Milliken My Garden Rebecca Osborne Petrzelka Bros. Inc. Dennis & Cheryl Pratt Alex Ragusa Reynvaan Family Vineyards Maureen Royal Keith & Jacquelynn Russell Samantha Simon Bradley Sloan Norma Smith Spane Buildings Inc. Evangeline Stiles Jonathon & Renee Stone Tami Sutter TechPower Solutions, Inc. The Goodman Family Urban Forestry Nursery, Inc. Ria Vanderpool Rosemary Weimer White Wolf Woodworks Wilson Picture Framing, Inc.

Festival of Trees Gifts-In-Kind

Museum of Northwest Art Robert & Tamara Cesena Jeff & Linda Frizzell Betty Miles Mathew & Jammie Novak

Carl & Nancy Angel Travis & Jessica Baldwin Oksana Barbin Zachary & Adele Barborinas Gary & Connie Bishop Bart & Holly Bunnell Cascade Lumber Inc. C & C Rustic and Reclaimed Geoff & Jill Christensen Troy & Demi Daman Dr. Connie Davis & Mike Dyberg F. John & LeeAnn Dean Tammy Force

Fine Art Fund

Foundation Support Fund Paul Blum Bev Carter Mark & Elizabeth Holden InFaith Community Foundation Norm Nelson, Inc. Darrell & Sherilyn Skiles James & Marilyn Stroncek Ken White

Have a Heart for Kids Dinner benefits Skagit Regional Health’s Children’s Therapy Program

“We were honored to have some of the children from the therapy program serve as ‘greeters’ for this event. Amazing kids!”

Mary June Curtis Foundation Trustee and Event Co-Chair

The Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees and staff are grateful to our host and dinner sponsor Alberto Candivi, chef/owner of Il Granaio, who

for 16 years has championed this fund-raising event to support kids. Special thanks to event sponsors - Kiwanis Skagit Mount Vernon Club, Skagit Valley Mobile Manor, Rouw Farmers Insurance, Richard and Jaynie Roozen and our dinner guests who, through their generosity, help enable the program to achieve successful outcomes for our youngest patients.

“Having the charitable assistance of so many community members shows the compassion our community has to support this important program for our young children.”

Katie Jungquist Foundation Trustee and Event Co-Chair

The Children’s Therapy Program is a clinically based, family-focused program providing one-on-one and small group physical, occupational and speech-language therapy to children with special needs.

Services include family education and home programs.

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OUR DONORS Phillips 66 Company The Benevity Community Impact Fund Robert Gruber Fran Hansen Mark & Elizabeth Holden Michael Lervick & Dr. Oksana Miller Tim Lewis Roger & Mary Ann Mercer Skye & Sally Richendrfer Mary Taylor Harold G. Bell Living Trust James F. & Magalen Webert

In Memory of Everett Bartram

James & Glenda Hobbs

James & Glenda Hobbs

In Memory of Tammi Hopkins

In Memory of Mary McClung

Chris & Jeanne Skeels

In Memory of Corey Mendoza

Janice Stavig

In Memory of Michael Minor

Thomas & Jerry Kuntz

Dr. John & Marie Erbstoeszer

Gary & Stephanie Fiedler

Huntly & Sandee Gordon

In Memory of Ellen Morgan

In Memory of Dr. Darrell Stavig In Memory of Janet Youngquist

Dr. Maynard Johnson Endowment

Dorothy Howard

Erik & Beverly Wold

In Memory of Rodney Olson

In Memory of Gordon Ambach

Steven & Suzanne Appelo

In Memory of Don Brady

In Memory of James Parker

John & Susan Meyer

Joan Brady

Linda Parker

In Memory of Serena Brousseau

In Memory of Steve Peterson

John & Susan Meyer

Mike & Anita Roozen

In Memory of Maurice Ragusa

John & Susan Meyer Dennis & Annette McDonald

Larry & Janette Lund

In Memory of Bruce Brown

In Memory of Betty Black In Memory of Todd Bos

Jeffrey Meyer

Brad & Pam Methner

In Memory of Joan Bricka

In Memory of Cleo Carlson

Fung Liu Endowment Fund

In Memory of Coral Lee Chalice

Benita Marsula

In Memory of Doris Dargitz Kellie Cargile

In Memory of William Erspamer

Michael & Lisette Mast

In Memory of Clara Roth Esselbach James & Glenda Hobbs Scott & Kristin Kleinjan

In Memory of Aldert Fagen

John & Susan Meyer

Sau Yu Patrick Liu The Boeing Company Gift Match Program

Dr. Morrie & Marcia Johnson John & Susan Meyer

Healthy Communities Fund

Brian Dow

Elizabeth McNett Crowl

Kidney Dialysis Fund

In Memory of George & Jeanna Dow In Memory of Harry Follman

John & Susan Meyer

In Memory of Dr. Perry Hatcher

In Memory of Irene Goldfarb

Patricia Good Tanya Sparks Kendel Burns

In Memory of Hoke Hodgins

In Honor Of Dennis & Connie Milliken

John & Susan Meyer

In Memory of Doris Austin

John & Susan Meyer

Jamie Austin-Morvig

In Memory of Dee Reid

In Memory of Dorothy Conser

John & Susan Meyer

In Memory of Lanny Ross

In Memory of Harold Coultas

In Memory of Robert Warnecke

In Memory of Hoke Hodgins

In Memory of Bev Whitsell

Dorothy Howard Peter Goldfarb Linda Parker

In Memory of John Holtum Genevieve Holtum

In Memory of Winnie Houser Mark Houser

In Memory of Marilyn Houser

Jerry & Deanne Markell

In Memory of Marilyn Johnson Alfie Hill-Banta

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In Memory of Don Johnson

Jennifer Milliken

Lois Powers

Marvin & Kris Anderson Richard & Evelyn Buchanan

John & Susan Meyer

In Memory of Ron Knutzen In Memory of Corey Mendoza

John & Susan Meyer

John & Susan Meyer John & Susan Meyer

Mental Health Care Fund Robert & Tamara Cesena Paul & Holly Nielsen Steve & Kari Ranten Gina Smith Janet Van Kirk

Palliative Care Fund Frank & Lynn Handy

In Memory of Maurice Ragusa

Dr. Michael & Elisabeth Bart

Par Tee Golf Classic Sponsors Andeavor Arrow Conservation Baird Foundation, Inc. Big Fresh Biringer Nursery, L.P. Cascade Natural Gas Corporation Chad Fisher Construction, LLC Dr. Kiran Chaturvedi Costco Wholesale Crothall Healthcare Dwayne Lane’s Skagit Floyd Pflueger & Ringer Foster Pepper, PLLC G & W Commercial Interiors, Inc. Alfie Hill-Banta Judd & Black Just Peachy Frozen Yogurt, Inc. Dr. Kiarash Kojouri Leverage Information Systems Lisser & Associates, PLLC Maple Wood Farm, Inc. McKinstry Energy Services Corey Mendoza & Jyl Bruns Moss Adams, LLP Optimum Properties, LLC Parker Smith Feek Piper Jaffray Companies Premera Blue Cross PRIMAC Electric, LLC Proforma QBSI-Xerox Resource Corporation of America Retail Lockbox Merchant Services, LLC Retail Lockbox, Inc. SaviBank

SB&C, Ltd Seattle Cancer Care Alliance Sims Honda Skagit Bank Skagit Transportation, Inc. Skagit Regional Health Skagit Valley Hospital Auxiliary State Farm Companies Foundation State Farm Insurance - Brad Methner Agency State Farm Insurance - Carol Lawson Agency State Farm Insurance - Keith Sorestad Agency Jeff & Stacy Stewart Swinomish Casino & Lodge The Boeing Company Gift Match Program TRICO Companies, LLC Voya Financial Advisors WAFD Insurance Group Washington State Hospital Association Dr. Michal Whiton Dr. Rob Zwick

Par Tee Golf Classic Gifts-In-Kind Avalon Golf Links Zachary & Adele Barborinas Bella Soul Salon & Day Spa Bruce & Dee Berglin

Birch Equipment Rental & Sales Julie Blazek & Jacque Beamer Bob’s Burgers & Brew Geoff & Jill Christensen Gregg & Kati Collins Columbia Tower Club Costco Wholesale Crown Distributing Co. Jeff & Mary June Curtis Troy & Demi Daman Justin & Kylee Dowe Espresso Connection Robert & Cheri Fiedler Jeff & Linda Frizzell Patricia Grenfell Dr. Joshua & Jacqueline Hawkins Sean & Debbie Hendricks Glenn & Alicia Huschka Image360 Rev. Mark & Linda Johnson Brad & Pam Methner Paul & Holly Nielsen Keith & Christie Peterson Quantum Health & Yoga Lounge Roger & Wendy Ragusa Brett & Nancy Simbe Skagit Horticulture Thomas Cuisine Management Brent & Betsey Thompson Train Wreck Bar & Grill Craig & Becky Wells

Did you know the Foundation manages 21 donor-designated funds?

Foundation Funds:

• Breast Institute • Cancer Care • Cardiac Care • Cascade Valley Hospital • Chapel • Children’s Therapy Program • Community Education • Dr. Maynard Johnson Endowment • Family Birth Center • Fine Art

• Healthy Community • ICU/CCU • Inpatient Palliative Care • Inpatient Kidney Dialysis • Mental Health Center • Skagit Regional Clinics • Sunrise Inn • Surgical/Endo Services • Teaching Hospital Program • Unrestricted • Wound Care

Whidbey Coffee Company Blaine & Kristine Wollan Work Outfitters

Sunrise Inn Fund

Jeff & Linda Frizzell Stacy Gonzales Lisa Grentz Sid Nix Roger & Wendy Ragusa Andrew & Tabitha Squires Dr. Robert & Carrie Stewart Kim Sunner Svend & Caitlin Svendsen Mary J. Tyler Laurene Vigoren Rob & Rachael Woods

Duane & Lynnette Henson Cambia Health Solutions Skagit Regional Health

Teaching Hospital Fund

Skagit Regional Clinics Fund Michael & Sara Hebel Barry & Karen Hiatt Norm Nelson, Inc.

In Memory of Garrett Chase Duane & Lynnette Henson

Surgical Services Fund Rebecca Allen Bellingham Anesthesia Associates, P.S. Kelly Bradford Yvonne Christos Elizabeth Cole

Dr. Rosana Go Juanita Anderson

In Memory of Anne Davis Skagit Valley Hospital

Wound Care Fund Toby & Michelle Knutzen

Gifts come in all types and sizes!

There are many types of giving arrangements.

Here are some gift options: • Cash, check or credit card • Employer Match • Bequest • Tribute or memorial gifts

• Stock transfer or real estate • Retirement assets • Fine Art

All gifts are 100% tax deductible. All gifts help support patient care at Skagit Regional Health.

Ways to make a donation ONLINE: www.skagitregionalhealth.org/hospital-foundation CALL: 360-428-2140 MAIL TO: Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation P.O. Box 1376 Mount Vernon, WA 98273 Spring 2019

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Donor gifts make the future possible Women’s Imaging Center

Capital Campaign

Major gifts fuel great patient care Fueled by generous donations, the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation’s Women’s Imaging Center Campaign has reached the $1.5 million mark of the $2 million goal. Donor gifts will help to purchase brand new diagnostic imaging equipment for breast cancer detection.

We thank all donors who have committed to this project.

CELEBRATION CIRCLE

Several families have given gifts to celebrate their passion and/or honor a loved one. We are grateful to these families for these naming gifts:

Chris and Barbara Jensen – Women’s Imaging Center Joseph and Cathlyn Holton – Comprehensive Imaging Center Sue Krienen and Ron Anderson – MRI Suite Skagit Rotary – 3D Mammography Suite Blade Chevrolet – In memory of Walter Blade – CT Suite Cheryl Bishop – Patient Consultation Suite

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Patient Dressing Rooms: • John Bouslog • Gerry and Susan Christensen • Norm and Pat Dahlstedt • Dr. Joshua and Jacqueline Hawkins • Darcy Wells • In honor of Berniece Aarstad - The Aarstad Family • In loving memory of Alice Peterson - Keith and Christie Peterson • In loving memory of Kim Herdt Pflepsen - The Family of Kim Herdt Pflepsen

“As a breast cancer survivor I know the new Women’s Imaging Center with advanced equipment and technology will provide the region’s patients with excellent diagnosis, quicker intervention and the best cancer care, right here at home.

This means more women will have a greater chance for survival as the new technology detects breast cancer earlier. Care and intervention can start immediately and all testing can now be done under one roof.

The Women’s Imaging Center is long overdue and the time to act is now!

Please join us in supporting this project with your donation to this wonderful cause.”

Christie Peterson Campaign co-chair

1.0

Construction Phase With a brief delay due to our February snowfall, the building’s foundation was poured in mid March.

The new center, located on the southeast corner of Division and 13th streets, will house the Women’s Imaging Center and a Comprehensive Imaging Center where these breast imaging and other imaging modalities will be available in one central location:

• Ultrasound • 3-D Mammography • MRI • CT • Stereotactic Biopsy The services available at the new Skagit Imaging Pavilion will raise the standard of care and create a space that provides both comfort and convenience for our patients we serve.

To check out construction progress live, visit https://app.truelook. com?u=ts1548432633

“TRICO is proud to be partnering with Skagit Radiology, Skagit Regional Health and the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation in developing this new state-of-the-art imaging facility. We look forward to completing this women’s health project which will benefit our families, friends and neighbors.”

Bruce Berglin Principal, TRICO Companies, LLC

0.5

0

1.5

2 $2 MILLION

Fund-raising Engagements Only $500,000 is left to raise in the final seven months of the campaign. The Foundation has earmarked the proceeds of both upcoming signature fund-raising events – the 2019 Par Tee Golf Classic and the Festival of Trees – to support the campaign.

There is room for YOU to join the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation and support this vital patient services campaign through direct donation, event sponsorships or event tickets.

Several naming opportunities are still available to recognize individuals, families, corporations and foundations that support this important effort.

Foundation staff is here to answer questions and find out what giving plan fits best for you.

Please contact Linda Frizzell, Foundation Executive Director at 360-428-2140 or email lfrizzell@ skagitvalleyhospital.org for more information.

“The benefits of the new Women’s Imaging Center and advances in technology available are long overdue for our community. The humbling generosity of our donors and pragmatic hospital leadership to turn this project into a reality truly motivates the Foundation in being a partner to bring the best healthcare into our region.”

Zach Barborinas Campaign co-chair

BELOW: The new Skagit Imaging Pavilion, currently under construction, will open Fall 2019.

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HealthQuest HEALTH SCREENINGS

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

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

HEALTH EDUCATION

Doc Talk: Eating and Body Image Disorders in the U.S.

Eating and Body Image disorders affect more than one-third of adults in their lifetime, and at least 3% of all adolescents in the United States.

Join David Escobar, DO for a discussion on recognizing and treating these disorders that affect our families, our friends and our neighbors.

No charge, but pre-registration required by calling 360-814-2424

JUNE 26 (WED) 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital Sahale Conference Room

Doc Talk: Neurological Symposium - Life After a Stroke

Please join us for the third session in our educational series. This symposium will be focused on life after a stroke.

Individuals who are stroke survivors, family members and caregivers are encouraged to attend. Information and presentations will be focused on stroke prevention, managing depression and rehabilitation after a stroke.

Presenters will include Lisa RodgersPotters, RN; Dr. Patti Brettell with Neurology and representatives from the Skagit Regional Health rehabilitation team. No charge, but pre-registration required by calling 360-814-2424.

Estate Planning

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.

No charge, but pre-registration is required by calling 360-814-2424.

JUNE 13 (THUR) 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital Sahale Conference Room This event is sponsored by the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation.

Meditation for Everyday Living Let an experienced meditator guide you in simple techniques to become comfortable with this valuable skill in this popular threesession 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. Pre-registration is required by calling 360-814-2424.

JUNE 5, 12, 19 (WED) 6 – 8 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital Sahale Conference Room $39

JULY 20 (SAT) 8:30 – 11 a.m. check in begins at 8 a.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital Sahale Conference Room

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For all classes requiring pre-registration call 360-814-2424

PHONE

360-814-2424

INTERNET

www.skagitregionalhealth.org click on Classes and Events

QUESTIONS?

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

Cooking and Nutrition: Eating on a Budget

Join a registered Dietitian Nutritionist from Sound Dietitians as they review strategies to maintaining a food budget at home and at the grocery store. Participants will learn ways to lessen food waste, get the most from fresh foods and grocery shop smart. There will be a cooking demonstration and food samples available for tasting. Funding provided

by Skagit Regional Health. For more information contact Stilly Valley Health Connections at 360-3869918 or go to stillyvalleyhealth.org

MAY 16 (THUR) 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Stilly Valley Health Connections 875 Wesley St. Suite 240 Arlington, WA.

Cooking and Nutrition: Exploring Fruits and Veggies at the Farmers Market

Join us at the Arlington Farmer’s Market to learn ways to incorporate seasonal fruits and vegetables into your diet. Look for our booth which will have educational materials, including meal preparation suggestions and recipes. A Registered Dietitian Nutritionist will be on hand to answer

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

SKAGIT VALLEY HOSPITAL

questions as well as lead brief walking tours through the market. Funding provided by Skagit Regional Health.

For more information contact Stilly Valley Health Connections at 360-3869918 or go to stillyvalleyhealth.org.

of the important documents that each of us will need to have in place.

No charge, but pre-registration is required by calling 360-814-2424.

330 South Stillaguamish Avenue • Arlington 360-435-2133

JUNE 22 (SAT) 10 a.m - 2 p.m.

Arlington Farmer’s Market 200 N. Olympic Ave. Arlington, WA.

Elder Care Options: Gathering Your Support Team at Home

Community members are invited to join Debbie Gann of Home Attendant Care for informational workshops focusing on care options available to the elder population. Gann has 30 years of experience working with senior citizens and their families as they plan for the future and work through transition times.

The first session will include information on medical and support services available to help seniors remain safely in their own homes.

She will review the roles of homehealth, in-home care and hospice; funding options including Medicare, Medicaid and VA benefits; ancillary services including medication management, nutrition, transportation and dementia care as well as a review

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

300 Hospital Parkway • Mount Vernon 360-424-4111

MAY 30 (THUR) 5:30 – 8 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital Sahale Conference Room

Elder Care Options: Alternative Housing Options and Planning Ahead for the Journey The second session includes a review of alternative living situations; advantages, disadvantages and the costs of each; how to know which is right for you; information on how to make the transition as easy as possible; additional documents to have in order to ensure your wishes are honored; as well as long term care insurance as a funding option.

No charge, but pre-registration is required by calling 360-814-2424.

“Many of us will one day need to care for ourselves or a loved one. This elder care workshop brings clarity to the maze of support services available - it is beneficial to people of all ages that want to explore options.” - Debbie Gann JUNE 18 (TUE) 5:30 – 8 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital Sahale Conference Room

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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. No charge, but pre-registration is required by calling 360-814-2424.

MAY 22 (WED) Noon – 2 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital San Juan Conference Room JUNE 12 (WED) Noon - 2 p.m.

Cascade Valley Hospital – Arlington Rainier Room B JULY 17 (WED) Noon – 2 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital San Juan Conference Room

AARP Driver Safety Program

This 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 eighthour course. Course fee is $15 for AARP members; $20 for non-members.

Bring a check to class. Pre-registration required by calling 360-814-2424.

MAY 18 (SAT) – ONE DAY 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital San Juan Conference Room JULY 27 (SAT) – ONE DAY 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital San Juan Conference Room

Stop the Bleed®: What Everyone Should Know to Stop Bleeding After an Injury

During this free, hands-on training you will learn various ways to control life-threatening bleeding after an individual has sustained an injury from an everyday emergency, manmade or from a natural disaster. You will be given a list of items to create your own Stop the Bleed® emergency kit. The American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma is leading the effort to save lives by teaching the civilian population to provide vital initial response to stop uncontrollable bleeding in emergency situations.

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Tyler Dalton, Trauma Coordinator at Skagit Valley Hospital and Tiffany Jayne, Trauma Coordinator at Cascade Valley Hospital will be teaching this one-hour training.

Please note this is not a first aid class.

No charge, but pre-registration is required by calling 360-814-2424.

JUNE 3 (MON) AND AUG 27 (TUE) IN MOUNT VERNON 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. (except 10 – 11 a.m.)

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon 300 Hospital Parkway –mobile bus Pre-registration required by calling 1-800-398-7888.

MAY 29 (WED) 3 - 4 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon Sahale Conference Room

CHILDBIRTH, PARENTING & FAMILY RESOURCES

JUNE 7 (FRI) 2 - 3 p.m.

Cascade Valley Hospital – Arlington Pilchuck Conference Room JUNE 24 (MON) 3 - 4 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon Sahale Conference Room JULY 31 (WED) 3 - 4 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon Sahale Conference Room AUG 2 (FRI) 2 - 3 p.m.

Cascade Valley Hospital – Arlington Pilchuck Conference Room AUG 26 (MON) 3 - 4 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon Sahale Conference Room

BLOOD DRIVES MAY 13 (MON) AND AUG 21 (WED) IN MOUNT VERNON 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

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

MAY 31 (FRI) AND AUG 9 (FRI) IN ARLINGTON 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. (except 1:15 – 2 p.m.)

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

JUNE 17 (MON) AND AUG 12 (MON) IN STANWOOD 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (except 12 – 1 p.m.)

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

SKAGIT REGIONAL HEALTH 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 five-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 360-814-2424 to register.

Pregnancy and Childbirth: Skagit Valley Hospital This five-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 $100. Medical coupons are accepted.

Full payment or a copy of your medical coupon is required two weeks before the class begins. Classes are held at Skagit Valley Hospital Family Birth Center waiting room. Pre-registration is required by calling 360-814-2424.

Family Birth Center Tours Free tours at Skagit Valley Hospital Family Birth Center are offered twice a month by calling 360-814-2424 to schedule a tour. Free tours are offered at Cascade Valley Hospital Family Birth Center by appointment only. Please call 360-618-7754.

Keeping Your Baby Healthy

And Baby Makes Three!

A local pediatric health care provider will provide information on newborn care and keeping your baby healthy. In addition, a lactation consultant will aid you in gaining the knowledge necessary to make feeding decisions regarding your newborn.

Time for questions will be provided.

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 for class dates and times.

Are you new parents or expecting a baby? This workshop is for you!

One of the best gifts you can give your child is a good relationship as parents. Strengthen your friendship and communication skills in this Gottman Bringing Baby Home worskhop, which will be offered over the course of four “date nights” or two intensive days, based on the interest of participants. Interest pool forming now for a late summer, early fall session.

Contact Elizabeth Cooksey for more information at ecooksey@co.skagit. wa.us or call/text the Skagit Bright Beginnings Line at 360-630-8352.

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.

New Mom’s Group This group is led by a Family Birth Center RN/ Lactation Consultant.

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 infant feeding, development and much more.

Pregnant women, moms with babies and any woman with infant feeding 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.

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! Cosponsored by Safe Kids Northwest and Burlington Fire Department.

MAY 16, JUNE 20, JULY 18, AUG 15 (THUR) 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon at main entrance area 300 Hospital Parkway No appointment is necessary.

DIABETES EDUCATION

SKAGIT REGIONAL HEALTH CERTIFIED DIABETES EDUCATION PROGRAM Skagit Regional Health offers a multidisciplinary, 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.

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Cascade Valley Hospital - Arlington 330 S. Stillaguamish Avenue, Arlington Call 360-618-7967 or email TJayne@ skagitregionalhealth.org

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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.

Diabetes Support Group If you or a loved one has diabetes, the Diabetes Support Group is a chance to share and learn about how to manage diabetes. This group opportunity offers the chance to talk through daily challenges, share feelings and exchange nutrition tips. The Diabetes Support Group is open to people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes and their family members.

Diabetes Support Group facilitated

by Karen Frost meets from 7 - 9 p.m. on the third Tuesday of every month at Skagit Valley Hospital in the Shuksan Room. For more information call 360-814-2874.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES – DIABETES RESOURCES National Diabetes Prevention Program 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, bi-weekly for the next four sessions and then monthly meetings for the last six sessions. Next class begins May 13, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Contact Diane Smith at WSU Skagit County Extension for more information 360-428-4270 x235 or e-mail diane.smith@wsu.edu.

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COMMUNITY FAMILY RESOURCES 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 360-416-1523. To read stories from moms who have enrolled in NFP, go to 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.

NEW Skagit Bright Beginnings Line & Website Check out the NEW Skagit Bright Beginnings website, where you can find information about programs, services, and fun activities for families who are expecting a baby or who have young children. www.skagitbrightbeginnings. com or text “Skagit” to 474747.

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 and Snohomish counties: • 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

Kidney Failure Treatment Options This Skagit Regional Nephrology program is for people with reduced kidney function or high risk for renal failure to explore their treatment options. Patients, families and caregivers will receive information about treatment options, such as dialysis options both at home and in-center and transplant. Our healthcare experts will be on hand to discuss diet, health maintenance, and answer any questions you may have. For more information and registration, call 360-814-5066.

Nutrition Class for Kidney Disease Take Charge of your health in a fun and interactive learning environment.

In this class you will learn how to live with chronic kidney disease by learning useful nutrition and exercise tips that promote kidney health and help slow disease. For questions, call 360-814-8329.

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 Health neurologists and rehabilitation therapists. Meets the last Friday of each month from noon – 1 p.m. at Skagit Valley Hospital in the San Juan Conference Room.

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

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

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.

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 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, Medicare and most insurances cover cardiac rehab. This program typically lasts for 8-12 weeks. 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.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program This intensive program can help patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), 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

The Next Generation of Surgery is Here.

“It’s like a 2D movie vs. a 3D movie. This is a definite improvement beyond standard laparoscopy.”

– Dr. Allison Porter

ADVANTAGES OF ROBOTIC-ASSISTED SURGERY

Small Incisions

3D HD Imaging

Expanded Mobility

skagitregionalhealth.org/robotics

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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 for approximately 12-16 weeks. For more information call 360-814-8368.

CANCER SUPPORT SERVICES

SKAGIT REGIONAL HEALTH – 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.

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

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.

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 YMCA Fitness Director at 360-336-9622.

NEW YMCA location:

1901 Hoag Road Mount Vernon

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GRIEF SUPPORT SERVICES HOSPICE OF THE NORTHWEST Community Education

Are you interested in learning more about hospice services and what they might mean for you and your family?

Do you belong to a service group that offers educational speakers from the community to present on their area of expertise? Would you and your coworkers benefit from understanding the ways hospice collaborates with you to add an extra layer of support and enhance the care of your residents or patients? We are here for you.

Hospice of the Northwest has trained staff available to give educational presentations on a variety of topics: “Advanced Directives,” “When is it Time for Hospice,” “Professional Boundaries” and “Medication Management” are just a few options available. For more information, please call 360-814-7647 and speak with Dana Brothers about your needs.

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

Trained counselors offer one-on-one counseling hours from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Monday through Friday, and we have drop-in grief support groups that meet weekly. In addition, we teach the Grief Recovery Method™ which provides action choices that help people move beyond the pain caused by loss. This is an eight-week program that creates a safe environment helping individuals gain new tools for dealing with loss and grief, and it’s appropriate for any type of loss. For more information, referrals or to receive a current Grief Group schedule, please call 360814-5550 and ask for Diane Hart.

Hospice of the Northwest Resource Center: A Free Lending Library Open to the Community With one of the largest collections of books in the state on caregiving, coping with disease, end of life concerns and grief, Hospice of the Northwest makes their valuable library resource available to anyone in the community. All of the materials are funded by the generous donors who support our foundation and are appropriate for adults, teens and children; staff is available to assist those interested in something specific. Visit the website at: www. hospicenw.org, select “Resources” then click on “Hospice Library.”

Browse book titles, read book reviews and renew your book all from the web page. The Resource Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. in the lobby of the Hospice of the Northwest office at 227 Freeway Drive, Suite A in Mount Vernon. 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 patients and families in 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, with a segment of the training available online. Information about ways to volunteer and the on-line application is available on the website at www.hospicenw.org.

Select the “How You Can Help” tab and scroll to “Become a Volunteer” to find the “Volunteer Application Packet.” To learn more, contact our main office at 360-814-5550.

In-Service Education In addition to community presentations, we provide continuing education for clinicians and staff on many topics relating to hospice needs. For grief and loss presentations, contact the Hospice of the Northwest Bereavement Department at 360-814-5570. For clinical education or presentations, contact the main line at Hospice of the Northwest at 360-814-5550.

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT SERVICES COMMUNITY RESOURCES Mental Health Support Group NAMI Skagit Open Support Group meets each month on the fourth Tuesday, from 7 - 8:30 p.m. in the Sauk Room at Skagit Valley Hospital in Mount Vernon. Both family members/partners 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. Call Marti at 360770-5666 for more information.

Peer-to-Peer Education Program FREE 8-week course for adults living 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 cost. The next course will begin in the fall. Call Pauline at 360-559-1509 to sign up.

SUPPORT GROUPS

SKAGIT REGIONAL HEALTH 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.

COMMUNITY 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. E-mail pauline@ skagitadultdayprogram.org for more information or call 360-399-7681.

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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.

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

Whether you’re retired and 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.

SOME OF THE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AT SKAGIT REGIONAL HEALTH INCLUDE: INFORMATION DESK VOLUNTEERS Volunteer Services operates information desks at both Skagit Valley Hospital and Cascade Valley Hospital.

MAIL DELIVERY Volunteers at Skagit Valley Hospital make a daily circuit to pick up and deliver mail.

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. Volunteers assist with sales and merchandising.

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PIANISTS Music can help to create a healing environment. Accomplished pianists are invited to join the group of volunteers who share their talent playing the grand piano in the Skagit Valley Hospital lobby.

JUNIOR MEDICAL VOLUNTEERS The Junior Medical Volunteer program is for students age 16-18.

The program allows young people an excellent opportunity to explore the culture of a healthcare 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 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.

OTHER VOLUNTEER DEPARTMENT SERVICES: 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.

CONTACT US For more information about any of our volunteer programs or services, including programs at Skagit Valley Hospital and Cascade Valley Hospital, please contact Steve Schultz at 360-814-2142.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Get social and be the first in the know!

Stay up-to-date with events and programs going on throughout Skagit Regional Health and the communities we serve. 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.

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.

2019 Board of Commissioners includes, from left, Bruce Lisser, Julie Blazek, Peter Browning, Gary Shand, Jeff Miller, Frei Burton and Jim Hobbs.

Focus on quality and safety

Quality, safe care is paramount at Skagit Regional Health and the organization has many projects and initiatives around continuous improvement, data reporting and assuring that we provide outstanding patient care.

One of the forums that is most valuable to informing the Board of Commissioners on all of these topics is the monthly meeting of the Executive Quality Oversight Council (EQOC). This meeting of providers, staff and three Board members sets the tone for this important work. The team looks at the data, measurements, progress, challenges and outcomes on topics ranging from 30-day readmission rates to patient satisfaction.

As a highly regulated industry, healthcare also faces regular scrutiny

from surveying agencies including the state Department of Health and organizations such as DNV Healthcare, whose annual reviews are key to our participation in Medicare and Medicaid programs. We welcome these reviews as another way for us to learn and improve. The results of all of these surveys are detailed to the EQOC, which also monitors the progress on improvement plans. We are happy to report that our survey results have been very positive in 2018 and to date in 2019.

The highlights of the EQOC meetings are reported to the full Board of Commissioners each month, where topics around quality, safety and the patient experience dominate the agenda and conversation. This is where the Board’s attention is and where it should be. Rest assured that the Board, along with all of Skagit Regional Health’s providers and staff, keep quality and safety in mind in all we do.

Peter Browning President, Public Hospital District No. 1 Skagit Regional Health Board of Commissioners pbrowning@skagitregionalhealth.org

Frei Burton joins Board of Commissioners Mount Vernon resident Frei Burton was appointed in January 2019 to fill the vacant position on the Public Hospital District No. 1, Skagit Regional Health Board of Commissioners.

Burton fills the vacancy on the board left by the December 2018 resignation of three-year board member Al Dennis who has moved out of the hospital district.

Board members expressed appreciation to the three applicants for their high level of interest in Skagit Regional Health and for taking the time to participate in the selection process.

“On behalf of the Board of Commissioners, we welcome Ms.

Burton. With her involvement with the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation and through this search process, she has become knowledgeable on many issues facing healthcare in our service area,” said Commissioner Bruce Lisser. “We welcome her dedication to the patients we serve and look forward to her enthusiasm in the process of board governance.”

Burton, a 14-year resident of Mount Vernon, is a graduate of Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science degree. She is a member of the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees, is involved with the

Conway PTA and has a background in healthcare.

Burton and her husband, Ben, have three daughters and are owners of Arrow Insulation, Arrow Conservation and Arrow Electric.

“I am very honored to be appointed to the Skagit Regional Health board,” she said. “I’ve had a consistent passion for healthcare for many years. I am very excited to work with this team to help make healthcare for our community better.

I see that this team, the board and leadership is so very committed and I am happy to be a part of it.”

Burton will serve until the next election in November 2019 and the person elected at that time will serve the remainder of Mr. Dennis’ unexpired term through 2021.

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