Winter2018finalpdf

HealthQuest WINTER 2018

A publication of

Skagit Regional Health

It’s a New Year

Tips for healthy eating and wellness 8

Time and teamwork Stroke patient on the road to recovery 10

HEALTHY and happy Wayne Ramsey meets pre-diabetes head on with diet, exercise and positive attitude 4

Festival of Trees raises more than $300,000!

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SAVE THESE DATES

We are Skagit Regional Health Monday, February 26, 2018, 6 p.m.

Il Granaio Restaurant 100 E. Montgomery St., Mount Vernon For reservations call 360-814-8376 or visit www.skagitvalleyhosptialfoundation.org

June 22, 2018

Skagit Golf & Country Club Burlington

SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE! 2

Call 360-814-8376 for information

My name is Brian Ivie and I am honored to be the new President and Chief Executive Officer of Skagit Regional Health.

I am thankful for the very warm welcome to northwest Washington and am delighted to be working with an engaged team of health care professionals and providers at Skagit Regional Health.

Since arriving in November, I am impressed with the talent, commitment and passion for patient care in the people of this organization. We have an outstanding group of providers and staff; a wide array of specialties ranging from primary care to advanced surgical services; and a goal to provide an outstanding patient experience, every time.

We have a great deal of change going on – from new faces in leadership to new services in Arlington – and with change comes fresh opportunity and we look forward to capitalizing on new ideas.

We also have challenges, including financial issues brought on by the ever-changing landscape of health care payment systems and regulations. We are developing a long-range plan to assist in projecting our financial future. Our plan will help anticipate capital needs to reinvest in equipment and facilities our patients will need.

Skagit Regional Health has done a great job over the years

with growth and investments to benefit patients. The most recent improvement across both hospitals and 19 clinics is the new Electronic Health Record (EHR). The Epic EHR brings one, centralized patient record which then offers quick, seamless access to patient information, efficiency and tools for providers. The system also features an amazing patient portal, called MyChart, which allows patients to request prescription refills, view lab results, visit notes and message with providers. See more information about the EHR and MyChart on page 9.

As we open 2018, I see Skagit Regional Health putting a focus on four things: First is quality – that’s key to everything we do.

We will also work to expand services across the region; stabilize our finances; and be the health care leader in providing an outstanding patient experience.

We have the team. We have the commitment. Yes, we have challenges, but also great opportunities. We have a bright future in the New Year and beyond.

I very much look forward to getting to know the people and places of this beautiful area and will actively seek ways to engage with you, the patients and families we are privileged to serve.

Brian Ivie President and Chief Executive Officer

HealthQuest

WINTER 2018 | VOLUME 15 | ISSUE 1

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

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

Healthy and happy

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Wayne Ramsey meets pre-diabetes head on with diet, exercise and positive attitude

It’s a New Year

20

Tips for healthy eating and wellness

Time and teamwork

Festival of Trees raises more than $300,000!

8 10

Stroke patient on the road to recovery

Never give up

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Cascade Valley Hospital

15

New providers

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Cancer patient makes room for the important things

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HealthQuest Classes

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Board of Commissioners COVER PHOTO Wayne Ramsey, a Sedro-Woolley High School teacher, works out regularly at the gym as part of his personal health and wellness program.

Photo by Meggan Carrigg Davidson

MRI upgrade, physical therapy services begin Latest additions offer variety of specialties

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DIABETES Wayne Ramsey:

Healthy, happy and exercising Diet is essential to managing and potentially avoiding diabetes.

Dietitians at Skagit Regional Health recommend that people eat three balanced meals each day and pay attention to what is on your plate: • Fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables (broccoli, carrots, greens, mushrooms, squash, tomatoes, etc.)

• Fill ¼ of the plate with starch or grains • Fill ¼ of the plate with protein • Add 8 ounces of skim milk and a small piece of fruit

Statistics on diabetes:

• 30.3 million people have diabetes and one out of four does not know they have the illness • 84.1 million have prediabetes – yet 90 percent do not know • For those who are prediabetic, losing weight by eating healthy and being active can cut the risk of getting type 2 diabetes in half • People who have diabetes are at higher risk for blindness, kidney failure, heart disease, stroke, loss of toes, feet or legs due to poor circulation

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The Centers for Disease Control recently estimated more than 100 million Americans have diabetes or prediabetes. Wayne Ramsey of Big Lake wants to make sure he doesn’t become one of those statistics.

Ramsey is the first to admit that he had poor eating habits, didn’t exercise much, carried too much weight on his 6-foot 4-inch frame and drank two liters of Diet Coke daily. These circumstances, combined with a family history of diabetes, put him at risk of developing the chronic illness.

Four years ago, Ramsey was “just about as close as you could be to being diabetic” when he walked out of a doctor’s office visit where he was given the diagnosis of prediabetes.

His fasting blood sugar was 162 (well above the norm of 100 to 125) and his hemoglobin A1c was 6.2 percent (above the norm of 5.7), placing him very close to the threshold for diabetes.

“I have a real strong feeling about not getting diabetes. Diabetes kills a lot of people,” Ramsey said. “I have

seen diabetes firsthand and you don’t want any part of that. I was given a second chance, and I don’t look at this second shot lightly at all.”

Ramsey took that news as a call to action. He enrolled in the Diabetes Education Program at Skagit Regional Health and began following the advice of the dietitians – aka “food coaches” – to eat healthy foods, exercise more and drop the diet soda habit. By following their advice, he saw results.

“They gave me hope right away,” he said. “I listen to everything they tell me. They always answer my questions. As a patient who cares about my health, that’s important to me.”

Four years later, the 60-year-old agriculture teacher at Sedro-Woolley High School has lost 50 pounds, his blood sugar is 125-126 and the A1c is 5.5, well within normal range.

Ramsey has worked hard to change his numbers.

“I know I have a shot at avoiding diabetes, so I work really hard,”

Ramsey said. “If I don’t stay on top of it, it could get to a point where I can’t manage it.”

Ramsey’s physical activity schedule is impressive. His regimen includes tennis, swimming, walking hills, splitting wood, walks after every meal and gym workouts. In the gym at Riverside Health Club, his sessions include 450 crunches, 15 pullups, 45 curls, 45 butterflies and an hour of swimming before he hits the steam room.

Education about diet, exercise and prevention has been key and Ramsey enjoys working with Registered Dietitian Christina Sackman who teaches classes at Skagit Regional Health and provides support to patients.

“We teach the basics of nutrition and remind patients why we need to

eat more vegetables and how to do it,” Sackman said. “The diabetic diet is really about portion control.

It’s about more vegetables and less carbohydrates and controlling those portions – that’s a big issue.”

Sackman said she has enjoyed the chance to work with Ramsey, who she says is an inspiration to her.

“He makes me feel encouraged, just because he is so excited to receive the information. It’s refreshing,” she said. “It’s all about the patient. Even if they try one little thing, one step to a healthier lifestyle, those small changes add up.”

Ramsey knows about that firsthand.

“I thought my life was over when I walked out of that doctor’s office over four years ago,” he said. “But this hospital, clinic, these people and coaches, they are gifts. They gave me hope.”

A MESSAGE FROM WAYNE: “I would like to send a message to others who find themselves facing a diagnosis of pre- or full diabetes. It may seem like the end of the world you now know. It was for me. But that was the best thing for my health that ever happened to me. With the support of dietitians, I made changes in my life I never thought I would do. They were patient and accepting as they hoped I would quit drinking diet soda, which took me three years. I would encourage you to start working with a dietitian. They start out teaching you about your disease but end up coaching you and encouraging you to make lifestyle changes that help you be a healthier you. Never in my time working with dietitians did I ever feel like I was being judged, I only felt like I was special and worth the help they gave me. You can do anything I have done.

Please don’t give up. Good luck.”

Type 1? Type 2?

What’s the difference?

Type 1 diabetes is related to the body not making enough insulin. Type 1 is usually diagnosed in children and young adults and there is no known way to prevent it.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes and is the result of the body not being able to use insulin properly.

Type 2 can develop at any age and most cases can be prevented by losing weight, eating healthy and being more active.

NEW Cooking Class: Dinner using The Plate Method Join Christina Sackman, Skagit Regional Health Registered Dietician and Wayne Ramsey, Sedro-Woolley High School Agriculture teacher and FFA advisor, for a hands-on cooking experience. You will learn how to create a diabetes friendly (everyone friendly) dinner plate following The Plate Method.

MARCH 28 (WED) 6 – 8 p.m.

WSU The Bread Lab 11768 Westar Lane, Burlington $30 Class is limited to 16 people.

Pre-registration required by calling 360-814-2424.

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Diabetes education program puts focus on unique patient needs From intake to completion, this diabetes education program is truly tailored to the patient.

Skagit Regional Health offers a dynamic program at Cascade Valley Hospital and Skagit Valley Hospital designed around each individual patient to educate and advocate a healthy lifestyle for those diagnosed with diabetes.

Signs and symptoms of diabetes: Several symptoms indicate if your blood sugar is high including frequent urination, thirst, hunger, fatigue, dry mouth, itchy skin, blurred vision.

Diabetes Education: For more information about Diabetes Education offered at Skagit Valley Hospital in Mount Vernon and Cascade Valley Hospital in Arlington, call 360-814-8329.

National Diabetes Prevention Program: The Group Lifestyle Balance series is available locally. For information, call 360-428-4270, Ext. 224.

For more information, go to www.diabetes.org

Founded in 2005, this physicianreferred program is certified by the American Diabetes Association and is available for patients in both English and Spanish with all types of diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association, 1.4 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes each year. If trends continue, one in three adults will have diabetes by 2050, making programs like these extremely essential.

During the intake process, a coordinator assesses the needs, wants and goals of each patient. From there a plan is created to both address these qualifications and fit the time allotted by the patient’s insurance. Most insurance plans cover up to 10 hours of education per year, which makes designing a path that fits within those parameters a high priority.

A team of educators, pharmacists, exercise physiologists and nutrition specialists set a track with courses focusing on what is diabetes, blood sugar management, beginning and advanced nutrition education,

WAYNE’S RECIPE: “I like this recipe because I made it myself.

I created this recipe years ago using canned, prepared pork and beans and baked beans. I changed it a year ago to use more basic ingredients because of my exposure to dietitians who are looking for a more natural approach to cooking. I studied the cans at the store to come up with a combination of ingredients that provide the nourishment and taste I am looking for while being more natural. I use this recipe to get beans in my diet and go with western BBQ I sometimes use in my diet.

This recipe represents months of trial and error.”

– Wayne Ramsey

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exercises regimens, medication plans, how-to insulin classes, and healthy lifestyle and goal setting.

A typical program can run from four to six weeks with a combination of one-on-one and small group meetings of six to eight patients. After completion, a report is sent back to the referring physician and a followup is scheduled for three months out to evaluate how the patient is doing.

This certified program also offers Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM). A CGM unit is worn for a 3–14-day period, offering as many as 288 readings in each 24-hour period.

This is an important tool to help patients visualize their blood sugar patterns, and to help educate and create a directed treatment approach for the best blood sugar management.

For more information about the program, which is available in Mount Vernon and Arlington, contact the Diabetic Education Program scheduler at 360-814-8329 or visit www.skagitregionalhealth.org, and search for Diabetes Education.

Linguica Beans 1 7 2 4 2 2 1/3 1 1/4 1 4 1/2 12 1

large sweet or yellow onion slices of bacon tablespoons bourbon 12-ounce cans of white beans cups low sodium chicken broth cups of ketchup cup brown sugar tablespoon molasses teaspoon hot chili powder tablespoon cider vinegar cups water cup tomato sauce ounces linguica sausage (one link) cup of mustard Hot sauce to taste

Procedure: Using the same large pot from start to finish, brown the bacon slightly on each side.

Add the diced onion and cook on medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes. Add the rest of ingredients and bring to a hard boil for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring intermittently. Turn heat down to simmer for 1 to 2 hours to help blend flavors. Add hot sauce to personal taste.

Do you have Diabetes?

Make sure to take care of your feet

By David Bruce, DPM, Podiatrist • Skagit Regional Clinics

First the bad news: Diabetes is the leading cause of lower extremity amputations. Now, the good news: Most of these amputations are avoidable.

Reducing the incidence of severe diabetic foot infections and amputations requires close cooperation between a patient and their primary care provider to control blood sugars.

Taking medications as prescribed, losing weight, discontinuing smoking and getting regular exercise are all key components to reducing this risk.

Every person with diabetes should know of and monitor their HGB A1c, a three-month average blood sugar reading.

In addition, there are specific foot care recommendations to help prevent the development of the open sores or ulcers that often lead to infection for people with diabetes.

But first, why is it that people with diabetes get so many infections? Broadly speaking, conditions called peripheral neuropathy and peripheral arterial disease (PAD) are to blame.

Neuropathy causes a loss of sensation in the feet (paradoxically, it also causes many unpleasant sensations as well) and PAD causes accelerated blockage of the arteries of the legs.

Other contributing factors are autonomic neuropathy which causes the skin to be excessively dry and motor neuropathy, which can cause changes in the structure of the feet creating prominences that get irritated. Elevated blood sugar also inhibits the body’s infection fighting ability which often causes unusually rapid progression and mandates early

evaluation of any suspected infection.

Daily inspection of the feet and taking early action if any abnormalities appear is critical. Most ulcers and infections start with a callus. Most may think of a callus as a minor skin lesion, however, it is our skin’s protective response to pressure and friction and therefore serves as an early warning for ulcer development.

Gentle reduction of the callus with a pumice stone is generally OK but never use acid plasters or sharp blades.

Ensuring that shoes are well fitting, using diabetic socks, moisturizing the feet after bathing every day (and inspecting them), closely monitoring blood sugar level and seeing a podiatrist or PCP promptly if you have any concerns regarding your feet are all measures you can take to help prevent becoming a statistic.

To make an appointment with a podiatrist, including Dr. Bruce, Anisa Pea, DPM or Nathan Ullom, DPM, call 360-848-4120.

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Tips for Healthy Eating

Eat more Omega-3’s.

Seek out seafood.

Up your fiber intake.

Experiment with whole grains.

By Gina Dowe, MBA, MS, RD, CD

Pile on the veggies. Get out the roasting pan.

Go for the gold, red and purple!

Eat less meat.

Learn to like legumes and tofu a bit more.

Be kind to yourself. Start with a healthy breakfast.

Get a buddy.

Clear the pantry and fridge.

Stay hydrated.

Work out at home.

Find your motivation.

Have a plan.

Make goals.

Take it slow with your resolutions.

Don’t try to achieve all your goals in a short period of time. When you have established new good habits, put a couple more goals on your plate. Remember, you want to make permanent changes, and these will take time to implement.

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Track what you eat.

Use reliable resources.

Be prepared for lapses, when you fall off the wagon.

This is a normal part of the process. No one is perfect.

Recognize that you got sidetracked, but don’t use it as an excuse to throw in the towel. Every day is a new chance to start over, so return to your healthy lifestyle immediately.

Skagit Regional Health is live with a new Electronic Health Record Skagit Regional Health launched a new Electronic Health Record (EHR) in October, activating this advanced tool for patient care at the organization’s two hospitals and 19 clinics.

The new Epic EHR unifies patient information under one system to improve access to current, accurate records for providers in diagnosing, treating and communicating with patients.

Patients will also be able to interact with Epic in ways that will enhance their connection with their providers. Patients can use smart phones and the internet to access a new patient portal called MyChart.

“The Epic EHR is one of the largest projects ever undertaken

by Skagit Regional Health,” said Josh Griggs, MD, Chief Medical Information Officer. “Epic ensures that the patients receiving care at Skagit Regional Health have the most technically advanced care possible.

Epic also makes sure the organization, staff and providers stay current with the rapid advancements in medical care we are experiencing across the nation.”

This new clinical tool improves system interoperability, connectivity with patients, access to information and data sharing across Skagit Regional Health’s continuum of care, including Skagit Valley Hospital, Cascade Valley Hospital, the Regional Cancer Care Center and Skagit Valley Kidney Center, along with 19 clinic locations from Darrington to Anacortes.

t r a h MyC

ABOVE: Pediatrician Rosana Go, MD, Acute Care Nurse Mabel Reyes, RN, Chief Nursing Officer Michelle Sand and Nikki Thompson with Information Systems celebrate go live at Cascade Valley Hospital.

“The Epic EHR is consistently ranked the number one Electronic Health Record across the country,” said Lisa Buller, Chief Information Officer. “By choosing to implement this EHR, Skagit Regional Health is making a commitment to our patients, providers and staff to the use of a state-of-the-art tool to improve access to information.”

The new Patient Portal, MyChart, will be the most visible piece of the new Epic system. MyChart provides patients with new and improved tools available on the phone, computer or tablet. This means: • Lab results are delivered to a secure mobile app, as soon as they are ready • Patients can easily manage accounts on behalf of a family member – a child, a parent or a partner • Patients can easily request prescription refills, wherever they are • Patients can pay bills online, quickly and securely Patients can sign up for MyChart by visiting SkagitRegionalHealth.org/ MyChart. Instructions to enroll are located just above the “Login/Sign Up” button.

because health is 24/7 • Message with your provider • Refill prescriptions • Review visit notes • Manage family accounts with one login • View lab results quickly • Mobile accessible, wherever you are

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

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Time and teamwork

Stroke patient on road to recovery

Ron Waldo of Everson was helping with a remodeling project in the basement of a Mount Vernon church in April 2017 when he began to not feel well. Before he knew it, the Whatcom County man was having difficulty moving his body or uttering a sound.

“All of a sudden I was on the floor and was trying to get up. My right side, my right arm, wasn’t doing anything,” Waldo said, recounting that morning spent working construction.

Fortunately, Bryon Mengle, pastor of Cornwall Church in Mount Vernon, came down shortly to check on Waldo and, taking in the situation, he immediately called 911 to get help.

“When I first saw him, I asked him ‘Ron, are you sleeping on the job?’ ” Mengle said with a smile while telling the story of April 5, alongside Ron and his wife, Kay. “We realized he needed help and from there, things moved fast.”

Paramedics arrived and Waldo was taken by ambulance to Skagit Valley Hospital. EMS personnel radioed ahead that they believed Waldo was having a stroke. With that information in hand, the Emergency Department stroke team was gathered and ready to take care of him the instant he arrived. Time is of the essence with stroke.

“EMS staff comes to our trainings and works with us so it’s really

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important that you call 911,” said Jessica Bell, MSN, RN, Director of Emergency Services at Skagit Valley Hospital in Mount Vernon. “They will do all the right things for you and we will be ready for you.”

Mengle said he watched and was awed by the seamless, rapid care Waldo received.

“The ER staff was just fantastic,” he said, noting the caregiving group grew to a dozen, each communicating and serving a specific role on the team. “It was literally amazing to watch the team move into action.

They are second to none.”

The team trains and meets regularly so they are prepared to help stroke patients.

“As a primary stroke center, we have the specialized staff who can identify and diagnose appropriately to get the right care for each patient,” said Neurologist Patti Brettell, MD of Skagit Regional Clinics. “We follow evidence-based medicine and we don’t deviate.”

Mengle accompanied Waldo as his wife Kay was in her office in Lynden when she received word that her husband of 57 years was at Skagit Valley Hospital, more than 40 miles away. A cousin drove her to Mount Vernon.

“I always felt like we were in good hands, but I was very afraid,” she said.

“I appreciate what the staff here did to help Ron. They knew right away what was going on and they knew

they needed to move quickly.”

The team at Skagit Valley Hospital enlisted the help of another team member to diagnose and treat Waldo by using telemedicine to include specialists at the Swedish Neuroscience Institute in Seattle. In concert with the experts at Swedish, it was decided to administer the clot-busting drug called tPA, which is known to help some stroke patients get restored blood flow by dissolving the blood clot.

Waldo received the medication just 48 minutes after the initial call to 911.

While tPA may not be the right treatment for all patients, “it worked for me,” Waldo said. After tPA and stabilization, the 75-year-old was transported to Swedish where he had surgery to retrieve a blood clot. Kay Waldo notes his condition continued to improve as movement in his right side returned and he was able to answer questions. Just four days after suffering a stroke, Waldo went home.

In the weeks and months since, Waldo continues to improve. “There are little things, like putting a nut on a bolt that I get figured out,” he said.

“It’s kind of like learning to walk, then run, a little at a time.”

Those little things also include four great grandchildren to enjoy, along with five grandchildren and two children.

ABOVE: Kay and Ron Waldo of Everson and Bryon Mengle pause for a photo after telling the story of Ron’s stroke and recovery.

STATISTICS

on stroke from the

American Heart Association / American Stroke Association: • A stroke is the sudden death of brain cells due to lack of oxygen when the blood flow to the brain is impaired by a blockage or rupture of an artery to the brain • Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of adult disability in the United States • On average, someone in the U.S. suffers a stroke every 40 seconds and someone dies of a stroke every four minutes • Nearly 800,000 people suffer a new or recurrent stroke each year • The death rate has declined in the past decade from 35 percent to 21 percent • A stroke patient loses 1.9 million neurons each minute stroke treatment is delayed • Time is brain – the sooner a patient receives care, the more treatment options are available

Know the signs of stroke:

Skagit Valley Hospital receives honors for stroke treatment Skagit Valley Hospital received the American Heart Association/ American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines®-Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award with Target: StrokeSM Honor Roll Elite. The award recognizes the hospital’s commitment to providing the most appropriate stroke treatment according to nationally recognized, researchbased guidelines based on the latest scientific evidence.

Hospitals must achieve 85 percent or higher adherence to all Get With The GuidelinesStroke achievement indicators for two or more consecutive 12-month periods and achieve 75 percent or higher compliance with five of eight Get With The Guidelines-Stroke Quality measures to receive the Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award.

To qualify for the Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite, hospitals must meet quality measures developed to reduce the time between the

patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment with the clot-buster tissue plasminogen activator, or tPA, the only drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat ischemic stroke. If given intravenously in the first three hours after the start of stroke symptoms, tPA has been shown to significantly reduce the effects of stroke and lessen the chance of permanent disability.

Skagit Valley Hospital earned the award by meeting specific quality achievement measures for the diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients at a set level for a designated period.

These quality measures are designed to help hospital teams follow the most up-to-date, evidencebased guidelines with the goal of faster recovery and reducing death and disability for stroke patients.

Cascade Valley Hospital, a Level III stroke center, also participates in the Get With The Guidelines program for stroke information.

BE FAST

Call 911 immediately if any of these are positive: B = Balance and/or gait problems E = Eyes: Visual loss or difficulty F = Face: Facial drooping or difficulty smiling A = Arms: Arm weakness or drift when raised S = Speech: Slurred speech or unable to speak T = Time: When were they last normal?

For more information, go to www.stroke.org or call the stroke help line at 1-800-787-6537.

ABOVE: Diagnostic Imaging staff at Cascade Valley Hospital in Arlington wear pink in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. The team offers evening mammography weekly in October to encourage participation in the screening. From left, Tara Rosellini, RDMS RVT, Jana Vanags, RDMS, Tammy LeBoeuf, ARRT (R)(MG) and Donna Marler, ARRT (R)(MG).

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Never gi Cheri Wickstrom makes room for the important things

On her days off, Cheri Wickstrom of Camano Island likes to spend time with her grandson or any of her 11 grandchildren. Making room for the important things in life is something she never takes for granted.

Having raised five children, and owning two companies, she has a full life and a dormant risk. She describes her cancer as an “oddball,” one she’s been living with for the past eight years.

Wickstrom saw her doctor after she became suspicious of a pea-sized lump near the lymph nodes in her neck.

After a surgical biopsy in February 2008, the lump was removed and sent to the University of Washington for further analysis.

“I was at home by myself on Camano Island when I got that phone call that said it was cancer after all,” Wickstrom remembered. She sat down in one of her recliners and wrote down everything the doctor said, asked a lot of questions, hung up the phone and cried.

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The biopsy determined she had Mantle Cell Lymphoma, a disease that lives in the blood and bone marrow.

“It should have killed me right away; so Dr. (Mehrdad) Jafari tells me,” she recounted of her oncologist at the Regional Cancer Care Center at Skagit Regional Health. Her longevity, some eight years later, is a testament to her positive attitude and the acute body awareness she’s demonstrated along the way.

Although Wickstrom remains asymptomatic, she still receives scans to make sure the cancer doesn’t begin to grow. In the beginning, after her diagnosis, Wickstrom received scans and blood draws once a month.

Then the scans happened every other month, then three, and then six months apart. In the last year, the scans have become annual to prevent Wickstrom from having too much exposure to radiation. If there’s ever cause to undergo radiation as a treatment for her cancer, her body will need to be ready. “We’re saving it,” she said.

If the cancer were to begin to grow, merely in the span of a few weeks, the results would quickly become life threatening. After having her most recent scan and blood work she expects Dr. Jafari to say the same thing he always has, “The cancer hasn’t grown, it’s still there, but nothing has changed. We wish it would disappear,” she said with a laugh, but so far his diagnosis has remained consistent.

According to Wickstrom, Dr. Jafari has been perplexed by her cancer and has conferred about her case to a number of other doctors connected to the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. All of the doctors there are equally amazed at Wickstrom’s stasis. “Dr. Jafari worries about it a heck of a lot more than I do,” she said. “I always say to him, ‘I’ll be fine, I’ll be fine.’ But I live with it, and the cancer is always in the back of my mind,” she said.

After a long day of physical activity, like working in her yard for example, Wickstrom can’t help but question if she’s simply tired from physical exertion, or if her fatigue is a sign. The

ive up ambiguity is enough to weigh on her, but instead, she prefers to continue on with a joyful optimism.

Wickstrom has referred many of her friends to Skagit Regional Health.

After her long-term experience with Dr. Jafari and the expertise of the hospital’s network membership with the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance facility and staff, she’s become an advocate and one of their biggest fans. “I have top care and I’ve referred several people because of my raving on and on about it,” she remarked.

Wickstrom shared her visits with Dr. Jafari often produce rounds of laughter. They discuss the sheer mystery of her continued quality of life.

“I’ve often thought, my gosh, what an amazing man. He sees all these patients, but he’s consciously concerned about my welfare, about my health, about this cancer I have and watching over me. It’s amazing and I just love them up there,” she said of the Regional Cancer Care Center staff in Mount Vernon.

Wickstrom’s cancer journey has been far from simple. She’s also been diagnosed with stage one melanoma; a condition Dr. Jafari and her dermatologist explained often goes hand in hand with Mantle Cell Lymphoma. With an impaired immune system, Wickstrom has to be careful to avoid germs as much as possible, and stay healthy. “I can still do anything I want,” Wickstrom maintained. She’s remained vigilant and hyper-aware of her body’s signals.

At age 62, Wickstrom gardens, runs two businesses, cooks and exercises in the same spirit she approaches everything. After losing many of her immediate family members to various forms of cancer, Wickstrom has intimate knowledge of the toll the disease can take. Having helped so many loved ones die, she’s managed to develop a keen sense of what life looks like when you truly live. Perhaps it’s her boundless inner strength and indomitable spirit that’s kept cancer at bay. Whichever, she’s a walking miracle and a testament to living in the present, expecting the best and never giving up.

MyEClinic schedules:

around nap time

Quiet time is hard to come by. MyEClinic is always ready when I am.

Time can be hard to come by.

With MyEClinic I can call when the time is right for me. I request a visit, answer a few questions, and receive a call back in 30 minutes or less. I’ll receive a professional diagnosis and treatment, all just for $40. And once the call is completed, a visit summary is forwarded to my primary care provider. It’s all very efficient and what I need at this time in my life.

Talk to a Provider • $40 24/7 • 365 Days a Year 855-901-9139 www.MyEClinic.org Winter 2018

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Radiologist:

Screening mammography saves lives Christopher Johansen, MD is fellowship trained in breast imaging and has a passion for educating and informing patients about potentially life-saving screening mammography.

Dr. Johansen joined Skagit Radiology in Mount Vernon in May 2017, bringing with him experience and a deep commitment to making sure all women know the importance of breast cancer screening.

“Mammography is a highly effective screening test,” Dr. Johansen said. “It helps us to find cancers early when they are much more easily, effectively and less invasively treated.”

Dr. Johansen is a staunch proponent of yearly mammograms beginning at age 40 as recommended by the Society of Breast Imagers and American College of Radiology.

Further, with the abundance of information available, he urges women to be aware of family history and any other factors in making decisions for themselves regarding mammography.

“Many women are aware of the amazing amount of noise, false information and conflicting opinions that are out there,” he said. “I absolutely recommend the American College of Radiology’s recommendation and know that screening mammography saves lives.”

Dr. Johansen grew up in Minnesota where he attended Gustavus Adolphus College and received his medical degree at the University of Minnesota – Minneapolis School of Medicine. He completed his residency at the Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Medicine and a breast imaging fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital.

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He started his career founding a radiology group at a community hospital in Arizona where he was able to implement tomosynthesis, also known as three dimensional mammography, when it was approved in 2011 allowing him to gain experience using the technology.

An intern year in Spokane during medical training made him aware of how “amazing” Washington is, he said, which led him and his family to Skagit Radiology, which provides a wide range of imaging services at Skagit Regional Health.

Dr. Johansen was also drawn to the area by the opportunity to participate in The Breast Institute at the Regional Cancer Care Center. The program includes a patient navigator to assist newly diagnosed patients and also features an interdisciplinary team that serves as The Breast Institute Steering Committee and collectively reviews each breast cancer case.

“The support and the system at Skagit Regional Health is just amazing,” he said. “I feel so lucky

to be in a place with a group of providers and staff dedicated to caring for patients with breast cancer.

In a community of this size, this is unusual in a very good way.”

The steering committee includes radiology, pathology, medical and radiation oncology, surgeons and support staff who meet weekly. The patient navigator is a real key to tying all of the specialties together for the patient, he said.

“The navigator coordinates all these different pieces for the patient who just doesn’t do this every day.

They make good things happen faster and better,” he said.

That process often starts with mammography.

“The most effective technology we have to reduce your risk of dying from breast cancer is to get a screening mammogram,” he said.

Dr. Johansen notes he always wanted to be a doctor and finds he very much enjoys the chance to assist patients.

“I’ve always loved talking to patients,” he said. “It’s gratifying to provide good information and watch a patient’s concern dissipate.”

Dr. Johansen is married and has three children with a fourth on the way. When he is not working, he enjoys family time and Tai Chi.

Latest in mammography on its way to Skagit County Skagit Radiology and Skagit Regional Health are partnering on a project to build a new women’s diagnostic imaging center to include the latest in three-dimensional mammography.

Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT), according to the American College of Radiology, is an advancement over previous technology, improves accuracy, provides higher cancer detection rates and fewer patient recalls for additional testing. As with previous technology, tomosynthesis uses low dose X-rays to produce images of breast tissue to detect abnormalities.

Dr. Christopher Johansen brought DBT to a community hospital in Arizona and has now set a goal to help bring the technology to Skagit County.

“Previous mammograms were a two-dimensional image of a three-dimensional structure which sometimes led to additional imaging in women without cancer or in a cancer being invisible on the test,” Dr. Johansen said. “Tomosynthesis allows us to significantly decrease the number of women recalled who don’t have breast cancer and to detect more breast cancers overall while maintaining or decreasing the already low-dose of radiation used in the exam.”

NEW, IMPROVED SERVICES at Cascade Valley Hospital

ABOVE: Tammy LeBoeuf, ARRT and Eugene Manrique, ARRT display the new GE Magnetic Resonance Imaging equipment at Cascade Valley Hospital.

Updated MRI offers shorter scan times Updated Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) software was installed at Cascade Valley Hospital in August providing the latest in technology.

MRI is a noninvasive test that uses powerful magnets, radio waves and a computer to make detailed pictures of the body.

The upgraded MRI at Cascade Valley Hospital allows technologists to perform additional types of exams

including non-contrast angiography, lower extremity angiography and MRCP exams to evaluate the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas and pancreatic duct for disease.

The updated magnet in the MRI allows for reduced scan time – up to 30 percent on some procedures.

Improved scan times also allows the team to complete exams for stroke patients much more quickly to aid in diagnosis and treatment.

Physical therapy available for inpatients and outpatients Skagit Regional Health Physical Therapist Sarah Johnston works with patient George Glover at Cascade Valley Hospital. Inpatient services for patients staying at the Arlington hospital started in 2017 and outpatient services will begin in midJanuary 2018. For more information, call 360-814-2184.

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Recommended Items to Include in a

BASIC EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT WATER

DUST MASK

RADIO

One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation

to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place

Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation

Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both

WRENCH

FOOD

CAN OPENER

FLASHLIGHT

or pliers to turn off utilities

at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food

for food (if kit contains canned food)

and extra batteries

LOCAL MAPS

WHISTLE

PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS AND GLASSES

FIRST AID KIT

to signal for help

INFANT FORMULA AND DIAPERS

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SANITATION

FEMININE SUPPLIES

and personal hygiene items

FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency Washington, DC 20472

What is

endocrinology?

Endocrinology is the study of the complex system of glands that make and release hormones controlling our growth, development, reproduction and metabolism.

When glands produce too much or too little hormones, the effects can be felt throughout the body.

An endocrinologist uses advanced training to diagnose and treat hormone imbalances through lifestyle

changes, medications or refers the patient for surgical procedures.

While about half of patients seen by endocrinologists have diabetes, these specialists also care for patients with osteoporosis, thyroid, adrenal, pituitary and sex hormone disorders, high cholesterol and Vitamin D deficiency. Providers work with patients to help them manage and control their disease.

George Ang, MD is a graduate of the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, Philippines. He completed Internal Medicine residency training at St. Johns’ Episcopal Hospital – South Shore in Far Rockaway, New York. He completed an Endocrinology fellowship at SUNY – Health Science Center at Brooklyn followed by an Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism fellowship at SUNY – Health Science Center in Syracuse. Dr. Ang is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine and the Subspecialty Board of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism.

Peter Wilcox, DNP, ARNP graduated from the Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Arizona State University after receiving his Bachelors of Science in nursing from Lynchburg College in Virginia. He transitioned to the Endocrinology department after providing primary care services for more than two years at Skagit Regional Clinics - Internal Medicine. He provided continual glucose monitoring interpretations for the diabetes education clinic and is developing the osteoporosis Fracture Prevention Program that started in October.

Endocrinology department growing at Skagit Regional Health

The Endocrinology practice at Skagit Regional Health started in 2015 with the area’s first, full-time physician and has continued to expand with the department anticipating the arrival of a fourth provider in October to serve the region.

Wenyi Zhang, MD, MS is a graduate of West China University of Medical Sciences at Chengdu, China. She completed her internal medicine residency training at Loma Linda University Medical Center and Endocrinology fellowship at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center.

She completed a Master of Science in human nutrition from Ohio State University. She joined the practice in October 2017 at Skagit Regional Clinics – Smokey Point in Arlington.

Skagit Regional Clinics offers endocrinology appointments in Mount Vernon and in Arlington.

To schedule an appointment, call 360-814-6315.

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New Providers FAMILY MEDICINE

NEUROLOGY

CARDIOLOGY

Alyssa Santos, MD

Kendra Yale, MMS, PA-C

Jeff Carroll, PA-C

Specialty: Family Medicine

Specialty: Neurology

Specialty: Cardiology

Practice Location: Skagit Regional Clinics – Mount Vernon

Practice Location: Skagit Regional Clinics – Mount Vernon

What sparked your interest in medicine as a career? I have wanted to be a doctor since third grade. My mother worked as a tech in the ED (she later got her RN while I was in medical school) and I used to visit her there when she was working. I also enjoyed learning as a patient through various broken bones and surgeries.

Practice Philosophy: I focus on practicing in a way that allows my patients to be educated about their condition and care options, and be able to participate in the decisionmaking process.

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

What do you like most about your practice? I enjoy the variety that it presents. I like caring for people of all ages and building relationships over time. I enjoy the broad spectrum of care we provide and helping facilitate my patients care with other physicians.

Dr. Santos received her medical degree from Northeast Ohio Medical University in Rootstown, Ohio followed by Family Medicine residency training at Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Santos is in the process of completing a Master of Public Health degree from the Consortium of Eastern Ohio.

Appointments are available by calling 360-428-2501.

What do you enjoy most about neurology?

Neurology can be extraordinarily complex, and I love the challenge that provides. Because of this complexity, it also allows for providers and patients to develop a relationship, which I find can be integral to their overall wellbeing or recovery.

What would you like patients to know about you? I am very excited to be here in Mount Vernon and immerse myself in a new community. I have spent the last five years working at the Rocky Mountain MS Center at the University of Colorado. I look forward to sharing my MS experience, while continuing to learn the many other aspects of neurology alongside Dr. Patti Brettell and Dr. Peter Struck.

Yale earned her degree from Midwestern University in Glendale, AZ. Outside of the office, she enjoys hiking, skiing, snowshoeing and plans to learn how to kayak. Neurology appointments can be made by calling 360-428-2550.

PEDIATRICS Cheryl de Silva, MD Specialty: Pediatrics Practice Location: Skagit Regional Clinics – Riverbend Why did you choose a career in medicine?

My interest in pediatric medicine was initially sparked by my love for children. Being the youngest of six kids, and growing up surrounded by many

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nephews and nieces, I always knew that I wanted to work with children. Then, after entering into school, my love for the life sciences grew. Health and the human body and has always intrigued me. When combining both health, science and my love for children into my future career, it only seemed appropriate to go into Pediatrics!

What would you like patients to know about you? I am a family-oriented, compassionate and dedicated physician.

I always strive to find solutions that work for each patient individually, while

Practice Philosophy: My goal is to compassionately advocate for small changes that lead to wellness within each person’s life.

What do you enjoy most about cardiology? One of the reasons I’m drawn to cardiology is its complexity. Many of the different disease processes within cardiology are linked to preventable health habits, and this intrigues me because of my interest in providing patients with realistic lifestyle choices to improve their health, based on solid research.

There is an incredible amount of research that goes into finding effective treatment regimens, and the constantly changing landscape of this specific field of medicine keeps me on my toes.

What would you like patients to know about you? I see myself as an advocate for you on your wellness journey.

Carroll served in the United States Marine Corps and completed a Master of Clinical Science degree through the University of Washington MEDEX program. He enjoys hiking, fishing, hunting, gardening, trail running and spending time with his wife and daughter. Cardiology appointments can be made by calling 360-336-9757.

incorporating in the specific needs of a family or lifestyle.

Dr. de Silva is a graduate of Ross University School of Medicine in Portsmouth, Dominica. She completed pediatric residency training at Northwell Health System-Staten Island University Hospital in New York. Outside of the office Dr. de Silva enjoys travelling, reading, working out and both playing and watching sports. Pediatric appointments can be made by calling 360-814-6800.

URGENT CARE

URGENT CARE

WOMEN’S HEALTH

Linnea Cooper, FNP

Sean Burson, FNP

Karen Landon, CNM

Specialty: Urgent Care

Specialty: Urgent Care

Specialty: Women’s Health

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

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

Practice Location: Skagit Regional Health – Arlington Women’s Health

What do you like most about Urgent Care? The variety of conditions I have the opportunity to explore, and the diversity of people who bring them in. Every patient and circumstance is unique and I love to explore the possibilities with each.

What would you like patients to know about you? I am a passionate and compassionate person dedicated to helping my patients achieve optimal wellness.

Whether that is through assisting one during an acute illness or providing support for preventative care and lifestyle changes, I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve their goals.

Cooper completed her nurse practitioner degree at Pacific Lutheran University School of Nursing. She spends her free time with her two young boys and enjoys traveling, running, mountain biking or camping in her RV.

Practice Philosophy: Do what is right for the patient. Care first, treat second.

Why did you choose a career in medicine? I come from a long line of nurses: Mother, brother, grandmother and two aunts. It was a natural decision.

What do you like most about Urgent Care? I enjoy the unpredictable and fast-pace nature of urgent care medicine. I also appreciate helping people when they need it most.

Burson is a graduate of Seattle Pacific University. He is currently a Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve with 16 years of service. He is very appreciative of the service and sacrifice our veterans have made. Outside of the office, Burson enjoys spending time with his three children. His hobbies include fishing, skiing, exercising and watching LSU football.

INFECTIOUS DISEASE Madonna Biritwum, MD Practice Location: Skagit Regional Clinics – Mount Vernon

the science courses, my interest and curiosity grew. Also, I realized that being a physician was noble and wellrespected in society. I wanted to serve as an inspiration to my nieces and other women.

Why did you choose a career in medicine?

My interest in medicine, started at a young age, of about nine years. I often told my parents I want to be a doctor. I was born in Ghana, a developing country, with relatively fewer health care workers, especially physicians.

My desire to do medicine was to help the sick, as my small contribution to society.

Seeing sick helpless people, with few medical personnel to attend to them, often made me sad. Later in life, as I studied

Dr. Biritwum is a graduate of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Ghana. She completed Internal Medicine residencies in Ghana and at Harlem Hospital Center in New York. Dr. Biritwum completed an Infectious Diseases Fellowship at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry/Strong Memorial Hospital in New York. Outside of the office, she enjoys spending time with her husband and three kids. She particularly enjoys cooking and watching movies.

Infectious Disease appointments can be made by calling 360-848-4150.

Specialty: Infectious Disease

Practice Philosophy: Believe in providing evidence-based, compassionate care to every client, taking time to address their healthcare needs and concerns. Shared decisionmaking with every client is very important to me, as it provides the foundation to care that is personal, distinctive and family-centered.

What do you like most about being a Certified Nurse Midwife? To me, the most enjoyable aspect of being a CNM is the opportunity to make a difference in women’s lives, partnering with them and meeting them where they are at. My back-up plan in college was to become a teacher if not an RN. As a CNM, I can be a teacher and a healthcare provider; it’s the best of both!

Landon completed a Master of Science in Nursing from Frontier Nursing University in Hyden, Kentucky.

Landon and her family enjoy outdoor activities, including hiking, camping and gardening. They enjoy international travel. Her hobbies include cooking, baking, reading, arts and crafts and assisting her husband with woodworking. Women’s Health appointments can be made in Arlington by calling 360-435-0242.

Looking Ahead

In the next issue of HealthQuest magazine, you will learn about the following new providers: Cindy Beske, CNM - Women’s Health, Arlington Kelli Kraft, ARNP – Family Medicine, Darrington Ben McLaughlin, DO – Family Medicine, Mount Vernon Jeremy Ginoza, DO – Family Medicine, Mount Vernon Learn more about all new providers by visiting www.skagitregionalhealth.org.

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New Cancer Care Endowment Established MISSION The mission of the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation is to raise, manage and distribute funds to assure the continued availability of quality health care services and programs at Skagit Valley Hospital. The Foundation will foster awareness of and community support for Skagit Valley Hospital through the involvement of the people it serves.

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

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

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

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

S TA F F Linda Frizzell Executive Director

Wendy Ragusa Development Coordinator

Becky Wells Development Associate

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

Like us on Facebook at

www.facebook.com/ SkagitValleyHospitalFoundation

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The Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation is grateful for the establishment of a new endowment. In recognition and celebration of the birth of their daughter Chloe, Patrick Liu and his wife Angela Fung recently established the Angela Fung and Chloe Liu Endowment to benefit cancer care at Skagit Valley Hospital with a $21,000 gift. Angela Fung once worked as a dosimetrist in the radiation program at the Regional Cancer Care Center in Mount Vernon. Even though she moved to Seattle several years ago, Angela valued her employment experience in the cancer care center in Mount Vernon and wanted to establish the fund here. We thank the Fung-Liu family for this generous gift and the positive impact it will have on the cancer care program and our patients.

Pink Day at Riverside Health Club!

If you wore pink to a group fitness class at Riverside Health Club on October 23, 2017, you played a role in raising an amazing $2,045 to support programs and services at the Skagit Regional Health Cancer Care Center. For the fifth year in a row, the club generously donated $5 for every person wearing pink to class on that day.

The Foundation is very appreciative of this partnership!

Pink Truck Like & Share Give-Away The Breast Institute in the Skagit Regional Health Cancer Care Center was the lucky recipient of $1,500 from CPI Plumbing and Heating thanks to their Pink Truck Like and Share GiveAway. CPI donated $10 every time someone liked or shared their Facebook article about The Breast Institute and the patients it serves. Funds were earmarked for the Cancer Care Patient Assistance Fund.

Thank You CPI Plumbing & Heating

Skagit Woodstock On August 19, 2017 the eighth annual Skagit Woodstock was held at Edgewater Park in Mount Vernon. The one-day event featured a car show and the music of five local bands: The Jimmy Wright Band, Bucula, Never Kry, Expertease and High Voltage. This year’s event raised $17,000 to benefit the Skagit Regional Health Cancer Care Center. The Foundation Board of Trustees and staff are very grateful for this dedicated team of community volunteers. Pictured are Skagit Woodstock organizers Dave Clark and Reed Harlow presenting a check to Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation staff.

CPI Plumbing and Heating Technician Coady Pike is pictured presenting a check for $1,690 to Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation Executive Director Linda Frizzell. Coady was awarded the Golden Wrench Award as CPI Plumbing & Heating’s “Outstanding Employee” for October.

With this honor, Coady selected a charity to receive CPI’s Charity Club donation for the month, and he designated his gift to The Breast Institute in the Skagit Regional Health Cancer Care Center at Skagit Valley Hospital. Thank you Coady!

CASCADE VALLEY HOSPITAL FUND ESTABLISHED Donors who are interested in supporting equipment and program needs at Cascade Valley Hospital in Arlington now have a place to send their support. The Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation recently established a new fund to solely benefit needs for the Cascade Valley Hospital campus.

GIFTS CAN BE SENT TO: Cascade Valley Hospital Fund Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation P.O. Box 1376 Mount Vernon, WA 98273

SUNRISE INN MARKS 25,000 GUESTS The Sunrise Inn at Skagit Valley Hospital hosted its’ 25,000th guest in August 2017. Since opening the hospitality house in 1987, patients have stayed at the guesthouse before a procedure at Skagit Valley Hospital, or families have stayed to be close to a loved one.

Individuals from Camano Island who needed a reasonably priced place to stay while their loved one was in the hospital first established the Sunrise Inn. The original location soon outgrew its capacity and in 2004 the current Sunrise Inn was built thanks to the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation and Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Today, the charming house on 13th and Kincaid in Mount Vernon boasts seven bedrooms with private bathrooms (including two family suites,) a shared, fully equipped kitchen and common TV room. The

Inn also provides private parking and offers provisions for RV hookup.

One guest wrote “Very comfortable place. So grateful to be able to stay while my husband had surgery and follow-up care. You provide an excellent service for those of us who are ferry bound.”

Another writes “We were on vacation from California when the heart attack hit. We had no idea what hospitals or hotels were in the area, but once we got to Skagit Valley Hospital they recommended I stay at the Sunrise Inn. The home was basic, clean, convenient and inexpensive, in other words, it was PERFECT!” Thanks to generous gifts from the community to the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation, the rate for staying at the Inn can be as low as $15 a night. For more information or reservations at Sunrise Inn, contact Skagit Valley Hospital at 360-424-4111.

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“On behalf of the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees, I would like to thank each and everyone involved in this year’s Festival of Trees. It is because of all the generosity of time, energy and resources that this year’s Festival was such an overwhelming success.”

Jill Pickering Foundation Board President

Festival of Trees Proceeds Benefit Surgical Services The Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation’s 2017 Festival of Trees raised $301,768 in gross proceeds Thanksgiving weekend to benefit surgical services at Skagit Valley Hospital for the purchase of a new Hana orthopedic surgical table and a C-Arm diagnostic imaging machine.

Team creativity brings joy and gives back – TREE AWARDS

Foundation President’s Choice

“Norske Noel” designed by Ria Peth Vanderpool and Mike Jenkins

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Design Sponsor’s Choice “A Northwest Christmas” designed by LeeAnn Dean, Shelly Langness, Lisa Lane and Heather Lindsay

Most Traditional and Team Spirit

“Nostalgic Christmas” designed by Kate Biringer, Holly Tobiason, Debbie Connolly and Holly Nielsen

The Foundation, in partnership with title sponsors Associated Petroleum Products and Peoples Bank, hosted three special Festival of Trees events at the Skagit Center.

The grand event of the weekend was the November 24 gala and auction sponsored by Heritage Bank and Whidbey Coffee. More than 600 guests celebrated the season and the cause with their spirited bidding and giving on more than 25 ornately decorated Christmas trees, 11 unique live auction packages, silent auction and raffles. The high-bid auction items included the “All That Glitters is Purple and Gold ” – the University of Washington Husky tree designed

by Adele Barborinas, Joey Vanderpol, Christa Roozen and Maggie Lahey and sponsored by Cheryl Bishop, Corey Mendoza and Mark Roetcisoender; the Sitka, Alaska Fishing Trip for Four sponsored by Reel Class Charters, Hughes Farms, Maple Wood Farm, Skagit Valley’s Best Produce and Wallace Farms and a Northwest coastal bungalow-style garden shed built and sponsored by Spane Buildings, Inc. and partners.

Giving opportunities included a new Festival feature – “The 12

Trays of Christmas” silent auction where guests bid on 12 beautifully designed holiday-themed trays filled with spirits, technology, kitchen items, jewelry and more. Guests also purchased designer decorated wreaths and tabletop-sized “mini” trees, best of live auction tickets, “Green for Green” raffle chances and tree raffle tickets. The “raise the paddle” Fund-A-Dream, sponsored by Dwayne Lane’s Skagit Subaru, raised more than $19,000 for surgical services.

While viewing the trees, festival patrons enjoyed dining on gourmet hors d’oeuvres presented by seven local eateries including Chuckanut Manor, Coa Mexican Eatery, Johnny Carino’s, Cravings Bakery & Cafe, La Conner Seafood & Prime Rib, Max Dales Steak and Chop House and Taste of India.

The Foundation is grateful for the tremendous support of the following: VHS Certified Public Accountants – Designer Wreaths and Mini Trees sponsor, Alfie Hill – Banta – Tree Raffle sponsor, TeamHealth - Beverage Bar sponsor, Rallye Auto Sales, Inc. – “Green for Green” Raffle sponsor and Twin City Foods, Inc. – Best of Live

Most Original

Designers’ Choice

“Masquerade! The Phantom of the Opera” designed by the Skagit Regional Health Medical Staff Services Team – Dr. Connie Davis, Renee Stone, Janis Hatch, Stephanie Bennett-Whetsell, Judy Nelson, Linda Webb and Joan Russillo

“Succulents and Sedums Pa Rum Pum Pum Pum” designed by Becky Paulik and Susan Trenary

sponsor.

The full holiday weekend schedule included a family breakfast and two days of community tree viewing.

“Breakfast at the North Pole” was sponsored by Thomas Cuisine Management and held Saturday morning November 25. More than 240 guests dined on French toast and sipped hot cocoa while treated to a visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Their visit was sponsored by Insight Healthcare Architecture. The merry couple posed with guests young and old for professional photo sittings; the

CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

“What a wonderful way to start off the holiday season! Huge thanks go to the Foundation staff, the Festival committee and especially the community that comes out and supports the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation and Skagit Regional Health in such a large way.”

Jill Christensen 2017 Festival of Trees Chair

Best Tree Topper

“Fashion and Feathers” designed by Connie Bishop, Gary Bishop and Tami Whiton

Winter 2018

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23 young and young at heart enjoyed craft and game activities, sponsored

by Smiles Dental which included cookie decorating, face-painting, letters to Santa and the perennial “tree décor” scavenger hunt. Event and table décor celebrated the whimsy of “Elf, the Movie”. Each young breakfast guest to the “North Pole” received a plush narwhale gift.

Family Festival Days, sponsored by Skagit Bank and Skagit Radiology, and held Saturday afternoon and Sunday, welcomed community members to view the spectacular evergreens. Each guest was given the opportunity to vote for their favorite tree, listen to live musical entertainment performed by area musicians and enjoy participating in the activities.

The winning ticket of the tree raffle, sponsored by Alfie Hill-Banta, was drawn at the conclusion of the weekend events. Deanna Nielsen of Mount Vernon was the winner of “A Northwest Christmas”. This enchanted, decorated six-foot artificial tree was dressed in colors of bronze, white and silver and designed

by LeeAnn Dean, Shelly Langness,

Lisa Lane and Heather Lindsey. This tree raffle package included a oneweek stay at the Wapato Point Resort on Lake Chelan, Hewlett Packard laptop and printer, gift card for a helicopter tour of the Skagit Valley and Seattle tour on “Ride the Duck.”

Our designers and their families spent a casual evening together among the trees at the annual Designer Appreciation Celebration on November 22. Sponsored by Pacific Woodtech, the recognition program and time for fellowship included bubbly beverages, dessert bar and a photo booth by Strike a Pose Events.

What would we do without our amazing army of volunteers?! The Foundation Board of Trustees and staff are very fortunate to have the creative energy, organization and volunteer management of the Festival committee - a group of more than 20 community leaders. We give special thanks and recognition to Jill Christensen, this year’s Festival chair.

This is her third time as Festival chair and each time she gives leadership that brings with it positivity, energy, fresh ideas and delicious sugar cookies! Thank you, Jill!

ABOVE: 2017 Festival of Trees Chair Jill Christensen, 3rd from left, celebrates with co-chairs L to R Michelle Knutzen, Amy Colburn and Tree Design Chair Cheryl Bonsen.

Festival of Trees Funding Impact Since the Festival of Trees debuted in 1988, the Foundation’s signature fund-raising event has raised more than $6 million to support programs and projects at Skagit Valley Hospital.

The impact on providing quality, compassionate patient care has been and is tremendous. The 2018 Festival of Trees we will celebrate its 30th year November 23 – 25! We hope you will join us for this very special milestone anniversary. Watch upcoming issues of HealthQuest for Foundation and Festival news.

Volunteers of the Year

Best Children’s Theme

“It’s A Barbie Christmas” designed by Jill Christensen, Michelle Knutzen, Amy Colburn, Jaylen Christensen and Colleen Knutzen

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Public’s Choice

“Christmas in the Northwest” designed by Jessie Bennett, Bradley Sloan and Deanna Babington

Designer Wreath and Mini Tree chairpersons Cheryl Loeb and Cheryl Carlson O’Bryant were honored as the 2017 Festival Volunteers of the Year.

Cheryl Loeb has served as a wreath chair since 2007 and also held a nineyear term as a Foundation trustee.

Cheryl Carlson O’Bryant was the 2014 Festival co-chair and has, in the past 12 years, served as a co-chair on various committees including Family Festival Days, Gala Registration and Wreaths. Both incredibly dedicated to the event, we are truly appreciative for their commitment and giving spirit.

We are grateful for the contributions of our donors and sponsors and the talent and time of our dedicated volunteers. Because of this amazing support, the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees and Staff are pleased to announce that together we raised $301,763 during the 2017 Festival of Trees to benefit Surgical Services at Skagit Valley Hospital.

We are extremely grateful to the following event and tree sponsors for their “tree-mendous” support of this event!

WHIDBEY COFFEE SINCE 1989

TITLE SPONSOR

TITLE SPONSOR

TITLE SPONSOR

A-1 Mobile Lock and Key, Inc. Angell & Co. Inc Arne Svendsen Trucking Association of Washington Public Hospital Districts Bellingham Anesthesia Associates Big Fresh Cheryl Bishop Blade Chevrolet Cascade Lumber Cedar Creek Lumber Central Moving & Storage Gerry and Susan Christensen Linda Christensen Craft Stove CREDO Graphics Crown Distributing Davis Wright Tremaine LeeAnn and John Dean Dimensional Communications, Inc. Edge Analytics EPIC Express Employment Professionals

Food Services of America Foothills Toyota George Deasy Design Gilbertson Funeral Home The Family of Dave Hansen Hansen’s Furniture Hawthorne Funeral Home and Memorial Park The Sara Hebel and Ben Gunn Team Tree Alfie Hill-Banta The Mary Hudson and Zachary Barborinas Team Tree Hughes Farms Image360 Insight Healthcare Architecture Jeff Langness - Private Lending Investments KAPS 660 AM/102.1 FM KBRC 1430 AM Kelley’s BBQ & Catering Inc. Kern Funeral Home LabCorp of America Tim Lewis

Life Care Center of Skagit Valley Lisser & Associates Lithtex NW Skagit Maple Wood Farm Mariner Construction Corey Mendoza Mexico Café Miles Sand & Gravel Mobile Merchandisers Modern Cleaners Molina Healthcare Moss Adams, LLP Mr. T’s Awards & Embroidery Norm and Sharrie Nelson Oasys, Inc. Pabco Roofing Pacific Painting Pacific Woodtech Pat Rimmer’s Les Schwab Tire Center Primac Electric, LLC Rallye Auto Sales, Inc. Reel Class Charters

TITLE SPONSOR Rio Vista Winery Rodda Paint Co. Mark Roetcisoender Rolfson’s Home Furnishings Richard and Jaynie Roozen SaviBank SB & C Ltd. Anne Schrievogl Sierra Pacific Industries Skagit Bank Skagit Publishing Skagit Radiology, Inc. PS Skagit Regional Clinic Surgeons Dr. Edwin Chang Dr. Josh Hawkins Dr. Chinnaya Parimi Dr. Allison Porter Skagit Regional Health Skagit Valley’s Best Produce, Inc. Smiles Dental Soroptomist International of Burlington Sound Physicians Spane Buildings, Inc.

TITLE SPONSOR State Farm Insurance Agents Carol Lawson Brad Methner Keith Sorestad Strauss Jewelers Structured Communications TeamHealth TechPower Solutions, Inc. The Grand Willow The Net Drive-In Thomas Cuisine Management TRICO Companies, LLC Bruce and Dee Berglin Brian and Kathy Wolfe Nate and Katherine Wolfe Twin City Foods, Inc. VECA Electric VSH Certified Public Accountants Wallace Farms Washington Bulb Co. Wells Nursery Williams & Nulle, PLLC Wilson Framing Wycoff Insurance

SKAGIT VALLEY HOSPITAL FOUNDATION TURNS 30 Three decades ago, a much-smaller Skagit Valley Hospital introduced its’ Foundation. The mission in 1988 was to raise, manage and distribute funds to support programs and services at Skagit Valley Hospital.

To this day, the Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation maintains that mission and has raised more than $16 million. Over the years, Foundation trustees have prided themselves on being able to fund “smaller needs”

and larger ones too such as building the Skagit Valley Kidney Center (twice!), raising more than $4 million to help build the Cancer Care Center, raising $1 million to build the Mental Health Center and half a million to build a new Special Observation Unit. In 2004, the Foundation built a new Sunrise Inn, this year its’ board continues to provide support by purchasing equipment for surgical services at Skagit Valley Hospital.

We hope you will join us this year as we honor the past with some very special events to help us celebrate this milestone anniversary. We will raise a glass to the first three decades of our story - but only as a motivation for more remarkable accomplishments in the next three decades.

The best is yet to come.

Cheers!

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HOSPICE OF THE NORTHWEST

Elma Johnson’s Pie Breaks Funding Record - Again!

The Hospice of the Northwest Foundation held its 16th Annual Auction and Gala in September with 410 guests and 30 community sponsors. The event raised more than $300,000 in support of expert and dignified end of life care in Skagit, San Juan, Island and northern Snohomish Counties.

For the past few years Elma Johnson’s wild blackberry pie has generated a frenzy of bidding and excitement. In 2012 the bidding reached $2,700; in 2013 the pie sold for a record setting $2,800; 2014 saw an astonishing $5,200 paid; and last year, $15,000 was paid for the pastry. This year, winning bids for the pie totaled $25,000!

Elma was escorted to the stage by State Trooper Brandon Tobol, who had the pleasure of meeting Elma during May’s Seatbelt Awareness month. Elma, a long-time Hospice supporter was touched by the response her pie generated from donors.

One of the most moving moments of the evening was a video about how the Hospice volunteer program adds meaning and connection at the end of life. Because no one should ever have to die alone or lonely, Hospice

volunteers provide companionship, friendship, and vigil to dying people.

They bring the outside world to patients at bedsides, in gardens, at kitchen tables – wherever the patients are – volunteers help people live every moment of life to the fullest.

They share their time, expertise, and love; and they bring friendship, compassion and caring to the lives of those in need. Hospice donors ensure that the volunteers are well trained, well-supported, and have the tools and equipment they need to provide dignity and comfort at the end of life.

The “raise a paddle” for donor supported programs like volunteer services raised just over $120,000.

The Foundation has committed to providing more than $475,000 in program funds to Hospice of the Northwest during 2017. These grant funds help bridge the gap between what the agency is reimbursed through Medicare and other insurance programs, and what it costs to provide quality and compassionate hospice care. Grant funds also help defray agency costs for clinical education, technology upgrades, complementary therapy, bereavement care and uncompensated patient care.

ABOVE: A large and generous crowd raised more than $300,000 at the annual Ports of Call event to benefit hospice services.

Wendy Rohrbacher, Executive Director of the Hospice of the Northwest Foundation, thanked the audience for their part in ensuring that Hospice programs and services continue to meet the needs and expectations of the community.

She explained that “the expert and dignified care that Hospice of the Northwest provides is made possible through the generous support of our donors, and we are deeply grateful for your support of our mission.” Rohrbacher also thanked the Hospice of the Northwest staff “for the dignified care they provide to our community, families, friends and neighbors every day.” And she explained that “their teamwork and dedication are unsurpassed.”

Best Place to Work - Hospice of the Northwest For the second year in a row, Hospice of the Northwest was recognized as one of the top places to work in healthcare by Modern Healthcare’s Best Places to Work.

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This prestigious list of providers is part of the recognition program that Modern Healthcare creates to honor workplaces in the industry.

They survey employees to evaluate their employers in several areas: leadership, culture, communication and training, to name a few.

Along with ranking 13th overall, Hospice of the Northwest also placed 2nd in the nation in the millennial category.

“We all work together to provide the best quality of life to each and every patient,” explains Bob Laws, Executive Director for Hospice of

the Northwest. “As a team, we rely on and support each other, and we value each other’s knowledge and experience.”

This and a combination of other factors is what attracts the younger workforce to the agency.

“Millennials are interested in the new and current, and since hospice is about dying, this appears to be an incongruous fit,” says Kaaren Flint, Education Liaison at Hospice of the Northwest.

“But when you consider the larger picture, our generation wants a job that provides meaning and purpose,”

Brian Ivie takes helm at Skagit Regional Health BEST PLACE TO WORK she adds. “And that is exactly what we do every day. We help families and loved ones in need of support at a critical time, and we know that what we do makes a difference.”

Training and growth potential were also noted as important to this age group. The recent Nursing Skills Fair, funded by the generous donors who support the Hospice of the Northwest Foundation, is an example of the continuous support for staff.

“The patient and family experience is our number one priority here,” says the agency’s Nurse Manager, Toccara Jule. “When the team is confident with their abilities, this translates to better care for the patient.”

Serving a region over 3000 square miles, HNW provides services to people in four counties: Skagit, Snohomish, Island and San Juan.

A team of providers works together to make individualized care plans tailored to the specific needs of each patient. In addition, bereavement counselors are available for navigating any kind of loss someone in the community is experiencing; a service that even includes people not utilizing hospice.

“I can’t think of a field that makes more of an impact on a person and their family’s life than hospice care,” says Dana Brothers, Community Outreach Manager. “People come to us in a panic, often experiencing end of life for the first time, and our team gives them the medical, social and spiritual support they need at a difficult time.”

Education is critical, so providing tools and resources for planning ahead is where the outreach team focuses their effort. If you are interested in learning more about services and the benefits of hospice, visit the website at www.hospicenw. org or contact the office at 360-814-5550. We are here to help.

Brian Ivie, a highly experienced health care leader, is the new President, Chief Executive Officer and Superintendent of Skagit Regional Health. The Public Hospital District Board voted unanimously on Nov. 17, 2017 to select Ivie to lead the organization, which includes Skagit Valley Hospital, Cascade Valley Hospital and 19 clinics across Skagit, Island and north Snohomish counties.

“I am proud to be joining Skagit Regional Health during this exciting time of evolution as a regional health system. I look forward to partnering with the Board of Commissioners, physicians, leadership and our employees to build on the organization’s excellent reputation for community wellness and patient centered care,” he said. “Our goal will

continue to be advancing a culture of unparalleled service excellence and a superior caring environment for the communities that we serve.”

Former President and CEO Mike Liepman retired in December after more than five years with Skagit Regional Health and a 41year career in health care.

Ivie most recently served as President and Chief Executive Officer of three facilities operated

by Dignity Health including Mercy San Juan Medical Center, a 370-bed acute care facility in Carmichael, California; Methodist Hospital of Sacramento, a 162-bed acute care facility in Sacramento; and Bruceville Terrace, a 171-bed long-term care and skilled nursing facility in Sacramento.

He has experience with for-profit and not-for-profit organizations.

Paul Ishizuka joins Skagit Regional Health as Chief Financial Officer Paul Ishizuka, MBA, CPA joined Skagit Regional Health in October as Chief Financial Officer for Skagit Regional Health.

Ishizuka takes on the role held by CFO Tom Litaker who retired at the end of October after a 40year career in health care.

Litaker worked locally for 23 years with Skagit Valley Hospital, Affiliated Health Services and retires as Regional Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for Skagit Regional Health.

Ishizuka brings 25 years of senior financial leadership in health care and corporate settings to the role.

Ishizuka most recently served as CFO for Samaritan Healthcare,

a public district hospital and clinics in Moses Lake, since 2015.

Prior to Samaritan, he served in a variety of roles for the University of Washington including Medical Center Financial Officer for UW Medicine and Chief Financial Officer for University of Washington Medical Center in Seattle.

“This is a terrific opportunity and it is my honor to serve as the Chief Financial Officer. Skagit Regional Health is a system I have some familiarity with and one that is highly regarded and admired for how it is positioned and what it has achieved,” he said.

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Skagit Regional Health

around the REGION DONOR FUNDING PROVIDES $451,600 TO HOSPICE PROGRAMS, PATIENTS The Trustees of the Hospice of the Northwest Foundation in November voted unanimously to approve program funding requests from Hospice of the Northwest totaling $451,600. The Hospice of the Northwest Foundation is able to fund these grants through the generous donations of individuals and businesses in Skagit, Island, San Juan and Snohomish counties.

The 2018 Hospice requests include funding to support uncompensated patient care, non-routine patient care, clinical education and training, complementary therapies like massage and music, bereavement services, outreach and education, volunteer services and the purchase and maintenance of equipment and technology.

In the past five years, the Foundation has approved over $2,400,000 in funding to enhance the care that Hospice of the Northwest provides to dying people. Wendy Rohrbacher, Executive Director of the Foundation expressed gratitude to donors and supporters assuring them that their gifts “will ease pain, inspire compassion, provide dignity, touch hearts and make a difference to thousands of people in the communities Hospice of the Northwest serves”.

“We are truly grateful for the financial support of this community as well as the dedication and experience of the Foundation Board.

This type of direct funding helps us to continue to provide the patient care that is focused on quality of life” stated Bob Laws, Hospice of the Northwest Executive Director.

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KIDNEY CENTER EARNS FOURTH “DIAMOND” IN PATIENT SAFETY PROGRAM The Skagit Valley Kidney Center has been awarded its 4th Diamond from the 5 Diamond Patient Safety Program in November with plans to complete the fifth and final “diamond” by December.

Each diamond represents a specific patient safety issue and includes training and process improvement.

The fourth diamond focus was on reducing documentation errors. It coincided with the Epic Electronic Health Record implementation and helped staff focus on their documentation during this time. The staff also participated in several inservice exercises focusing on common errors found in dialysis followed by a series of tests to measure the effectiveness.

In October, the Kidney Center staff was awarded the third diamond which involved 100% of staff and

providers completing an in-service on hand hygiene as well as signing handwashing pledges. The staff took this one step further and completed hand hygiene audits and encourage patients to call a “time out” if they witnessed a missed opportunity for hand hygiene. Patients were also educated on “Speaking Up: 5 Things You Can Do to Prevent Infection” and patients were given pocket guides from the CDC on “6 Tips to Prevent Dialysis Infections.”

Previous diamonds were focused on patient safety principles, which included 100 percent of staff completing a 10-question safety questionnaire and completing inservice training on “What is Patient Safety” and “Patient Safety in the Dialysis Unit.” The clinic also developed a patient education team that will continue to provide education on a monthly basis.

SKAGIT REGIONAL HEALTH HOLDS LARGEST STAFF WELLNESS EVENT TO DATE It was a cloudy morning on November 11, but you couldn’t miss the pack of bright green T-shirts at the local fun run. More than 50 members of the Skagit Regional Health family sported “Lime Shock” shirts to run, walk and stroll at the Fowl Fun Run, put on by Skagit Runners in Mount Vernon. This is

the fourth staff wellness event put on by the Wellness Advisory Team, and participation was the largest to date.

The Wellness Advisory Team is self-funded through staff gym memberships. This gives the team flexibility to support staff wellness in a variety of ways. Plans are underway for a full 2018 schedule.

Wound care also available in Arlington

MIST Therapy Painless, accelerated wound care at Skagit Regional Health

Taking care of chronic wounds can often include painful procedures that are necessary to clean and treat wounds. No one likes to inflict pain or cause discomfort. In the quest to find treatments that are both effective and comfortable, the Skagit Wound Center in Mount Vernon has purchased a MIST Therapy unit.

MIST Therapy is a clinically proven treatment that delivers low-energy ultrasound to a wound. A saline mist is used to deliver the ultrasound, so no direct contact is needed. Unlike most wound products that are limited to treating the surface, the sound waves of MIST Therapy penetrate into and below the surface of the wound to accelerate the normal healing process.

How does MIST therapy work?

Quite often during the healing process, wounds will “stall” and the cells in the wound appear to “shut down” which results in slowed healing. MIST Therapy’s ultrasound waves bump these cells to awaken

so they can carry on their normal healing processes. The ultrasound waves also kill bacteria by breaking their rigid cell walls much like the shell of an egg. Bacteria is known to slow wound healing. The ultrasound in MIST Therapy is safely delivered through the saline mist that does not require contact with the wound and is therefore painless to apply.

“I have been in wound care for more than 25 years and have seen many products and therapies come along, this one ranks in my top three along with vacuum-assisted closure and skin substitutes in terms of good wound healing outcomes,” said Program Manager and clinician Dennis Reilly PT, CWS. Treatments are applied two to three times per week and take 3-20 minutes each depending on the size of the wound.

For more information on painless wound healing or to schedule an appointment call us at 360-814-2600.

In April, the Cascade Valley Hospital Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine Center in Arlington will celebrate 20 years in operations. More than 57,000 patient encounters have taken place at the center in the past two decades.

The center has earned numerous honors over the years, including being named recipient of Center of Distinction Award in 2008, 2009, 2012, 2013 and 2015 and receiving the Center of Excellence Award in 2009 and 2013. These awards are given to centers and staff with outstanding records of wound healing, reduced time to heal and patient satisfaction.

The Arlington program is a nurse driven, case management model.

The nurse/case manager, who has specific training and expertise, ensures appropriate coordination of patient care, team collaboration and consistent patient education. The care team uses a collaborative approach, called the Patient Care Process, which assesses, plans, implements, coordinates, monitors and evaluates the services required to meet an individual’s health care needs, using communication and available resources to promote quality and cost effective outcomes.

Services provided in Arlington include: • Wound consultation/evaluation, diagnostic and ongoing assessments and treatments • Non-invasive vascular studies • Specialty wound dressings • Cellular and tissue based products • Compression therapy • Treatment of wound infections • Patient and family education • Pressure off-loading devices and footware • Debridements • Negative pressure wound therapy • Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy For more information, call 360-403-8158.

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

No appointment or preregistration is required.

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

FEBRUARY 15 (THUR) 7:30 – 9 a.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon 300 Hospital Parkway San Juan Conference Room MARCH 15 (THUR) 8 – 9 a.m.

Skagit Regional Clinics - Stanwood 9631 269th Street NW

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

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

FEBRUARY 12 (MON) 1 - 4 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon San Juan Conference Room Pre-registration required by calling 360-814-2424.

FREE Skin Cancer Screening Skagit Regional Clinics – Dermatology will conduct visual inspections of skin abnormalities you are concerned about.

MARCH 5 (MON) 1:30 - 4 p.m.

Skagit Regional Clinics – Riverbend Dermatology Department 2320 Freeway Drive, Mount Vernon Pre-registration required by calling 360-814-2424.

FREE Vision Screening A certified ophthalmic technician with Cascadia Eye will conduct vision and glaucoma screenings.

This is not an evaluation of cataracts or macular degeneration. It is an acuity (vision) and eye pressure test only. Bring a contact lens case for storage during the screening.

MARCH 23 (FRI) 1 - 3 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon Sahale Conference Room Pre-registration required by calling 360-814-2424.

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

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.

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

PHONE

360-814-2424

INTERNET

www.skagitregionalhealth.org click on Events

QUESTIONS?

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

CAMANO ISLAND

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

Don’t wait long. Many of our classes fill quickly so early registration is recommended. You are not confirmed in the class until we receive your payment (for classes requiring payment.) Don’t lose your space in class – pay early!

CASCADE VALLEY HOSPITAL

SKAGIT VALLEY HOSPITAL

SMOKEY POINT

360-435-2133

360-428-2500

360-639-3093

330 South Stillaguamish Avenue Arlington

HEALTH EDUCATION DOC TALK - Especially for Girls: What’s Happening to Me Skagit Regional Health is offering this popular mother-daughter class on puberty that will help participants address the sensitive topics of physical and emotional development taught in a relaxed environment by a pediatric provider with Skagit Regional Clinics - Riverbend. This class is designed for girls ages 8-11.

It is not a sex education class.

FEBRUARY 10 (SAT) 2 - 4 p.m.

Skagit Regional Clinics - Riverbend No charge, but pre-registration required by calling 360-814-2424.

NEW DOC TALK Especially for Boys: What’s Happening to Me Skagit Regional Health is offering this new parent-son class on puberty that will help participants address the sensitive topics of physical and emotional development taught in a relaxed environment by a Pediatric provider with Skagit Regional Clinics - Riverbend. This class is designed for boys ages 9-13.

It is not a sex education class.

300 Hospital Parkway Mount Vernon

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 course.

Course fee is $15 for AARP members; $20 for non-members. Pre-registration required by calling 360-814-2424.

FEBRUARY 24 (SAT) – ONE DAY 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon Sahale Conference Room APRIL 11 AND 12 (WED/THUR) – TWO DAYS 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. each day Cascade Valley Hospital – Arlington Rainier Conference Room B

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 physicianreferred program, Medicare and most insurances cover cardiac rehab. For more information call 360-814-8368.

MARCH 17 (SAT) 2 - 4 p.m.

Skagit Regional Clinics - Riverbend No charge, but pre-registration required by calling 360-814-2424.

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

3823 172nd Street NE Arlington

STANWOOD

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

NEW Cooking Class: Making Whole Grain Dosa

Join Niels Brisbane, Research and Development Sous Chef at Canlis Restaurant in Seattle and Laura DeFreese, Registered Dietician as they explore the incredible flavors and nutrition of Indian cuisine. You will learn how to make whole grain dosa batter, about the immense versatility of their fillings and some of the benefits of vegetable centric food choices.

FEBRUARY 7 (WED) 6 – 8 p.m.

WSU The Bread Lab 11768 Westar Lane, Burlington $30 Class is limited to 16 people.

Pre-registration required by calling 360-814-2424.

NEW Cooking Class: Whole Grain Cookies

Looking to get more whole grains into your diet? Come experiment with 100% whole grain cookies using wheat, barley and buckwheat plus your choice of chocolate chips, raisins, craisins or barley flakes. Flour will be freshly milled during class from grain grown in Skagit county. Each participant will go home with two dozen cookies.

Please bring your own container.

Taught by WSU The Bread Lab. FEBRUARY 27 (TUE) 6 – 8 p.m.

WSU The Bread Lab 11768 Westar Lane, Burlington $30 Class is limited to 12 people.

Pre-registration required by calling 360-814-2424.

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NEW Cooking Class: Dinner using The Plate Method Join Christina Sackman, Skagit Regional Health Registered Dietician and Wayne Ramsey, Sedro-Woolley High School Agriculture teacher and FFA advisor for a hands-on cooking experience. You will learn how to create a diabetes friendly (everyone friendly) dinner plate following The Plate Method.

MARCH 28 (WED) 6 – 8 p.m.

WSU The Bread Lab 11768 Westar Lane, Burlington $30 Class is limited to 16 people.

Pre-registration required by calling 360-814-2424.

Elder Care

This two-evening program brings clarity to the maze of support options available for older adults. Instructor Debbie Gann, CSA, Director, Home Attendant Care (Whatcom/Skagit/ San Juan/Island Counties) has more than 25 years of healthcare experience and is a certified Dementia Trainer.

MARCH 20 AND 22 (TUES/THUR) 6 – 8:30 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon Sahale Conference Room No charge, but pre-registration required by calling 360-814-2424.

Healthy Weight: It’s not a diet, it’s a lifestyle!

This free class on how to achieve a healthy weight is presented by Dr. Natalia Usoltseva, a board certified internal medicine physician at UW Neighborhood Smokey Point Clinic.

Dr. Usoltseva will discuss the health risks of obesity, diet and exercise programs, how to create a personalized daily food plan and treatment options.

Dr. Usoltseva will provide information that will help you maintain optimum health by managing your weight effectively on a daily basis. “Healthy Weight” is part of a series of free classes sponsored by UW Neighborhood Smokey Point Clinic.

JANUARY 30 (TUE) 6 – 7:30 p.m.

UW Neighborhood Smokey Point Clinic 3823 172nd Street NE, Arlington Lobby on the second floor at the top of stairs Register today at uwmedicine.org/ smokeypoint

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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.

Kidney Failure Treatment Options

This Skagit Valley Kidney Center program is for people with reduced kidney function who would like to explore treatment options for renal replacement therapy. Patients, families and caregivers will receive information about treatment options (such as dialysis and transplant), diet, health maintenance, financial and social concerns. For more information and registration, call 360-416-5717.

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. Pre-registration required by calling 360-814-2424.

FEBRUARY 14 (WED) 2 – 4 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon Sahale Conference Room MARCH 14 (WED) 2 – 4 p.m.

Cascade Valley Hospital – Arlington Rainier Conference Room B

NEW Meditation Refresher Course - Bringing Meditation into Our Daily Lives

This course is especially designed for people who have taken Jan’s “Meditation for Calming and Focusing Your Mind” or those who would like to reinvigorate their meditation practice.

We will explore ways to bring the fruits of meditation right into daily life and broaden our capacity to find ease and effortlessness simply and effectively.

Meditation is 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.

MARCH 7, 14 AND 21 (WED) 6 – 8 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon Sahale Conference Room $39 Pre-registration required by calling 360-814-2424.

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 learn how to manage and cope with daily activities. Participants learn selfmanagement and relaxation techniques to improve emotional well-being, skills to help regain control of their breathing, and pursue activities to the fullest extent of their abilities.

The classes meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays for approximately 10-18 weeks. For more information call 360-814-8368.

Spanish for Health Care Providers Workshop

Learn essential Spanish vocabulary and phrases common in your health care workplace in this six-hour class.

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

Skagit Regional Health employees please contact Heather Zuzel HZuzel@skagitregionalhealth.org for additional information regarding the bilingual assessment necessary to speak with patients.

MARCH 27 AND 29 (TUES/THURS) 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon Shuksan Conference Room $125 includes course materials Pre-registration required by calling 360-814-2424.

APRIL 17 AND 19 (TUES/THURS) 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Cascade Valley Hospital – Arlington Rainier Conference Room B $125 includes course materials Pre-registration required by calling 360-814-2424.

NEW 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. 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.

Limited to 8 participants per class.

There is no cost, but pre-registration is required by calling 360-814-2424.

JANUARY 29 (MON) 3 - 4 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon San Juan Conference Room Pre-registration required FEBRUARY 15 (THUR) 3 - 4 p.m.

Cascade Valley Hospital – Arlington Rainier Conference Room B Pre-registration required FEBRUARY 28 (WED) 3 - 4 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon San Juan Conference Room Pre-registration required MARCH 26 (MON) 3 - 4 p.m.

Skagit Valley Hospital – Mount Vernon San Juan Conference Room Pre-registration required APRIL 19 (THUR) 3 - 4 p.m.

Cascade Valley Hospital – Arlington Rainier Conference Room B Pre-registration required

BLOOD DRIVES MARCH 5 (MON) IN MOUNT VERNON 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

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

MARCH 9 (FRI) IN ARLINGTON 12 – 6 p.m. (except 2:15 – 3:15 p.m.)

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

MARCH 12 (MON) IN STANWOOD 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (except 12 – 1 p.m.)

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

CHILDBIRTH, PARENTING & FAMILY RESOURCES SKAGIT REGIONAL HEALTH Breastfeeding and Newborn Care Skagit Valley Hospital’s Family Birth Center’s nurse Lactation Consultants will aid parents in gaining the knowledge necessary to make feeding decisions regarding their new baby. In addition, a local pediatric care provider will be available to provide information on newborn care – time for questions will be allowed. Pre-registration is required. The fee is $25 for this two and one-half hour program. The cost is only $20 when registering for the weekend childbirth preparation class at the same time. Call 360-814-2424 or 360-629-6481 for class dates and times.

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

Medical coupons are accepted.

Pre-registration is required. Call 360-814-2424 to register.

Child Safety Seat Checks Certified child safety seat technicians will assess your seat for age and size appropriateness, proper installation and use and recalls. This screening is highly recommended for all parents and other caregivers. Learn how to safely install and use your car seat!

Co-sponsored by Safe Kids Northwest.

FEB 15, MAR 15, APR 19 (THUR) 12 - 2 p.m.

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

FEB 9, MAR 9, APR 13 (FRI) 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

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

Gestational Diabetes Program Diabetes during pregnancy, or gestational diabetes, can result in serious complications to your baby.

Skagit Valley Hospital offers a referralbased education program to improve gestational diabetes self-management skills, and provides tools for moms-tobe 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.

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Family Birth Center Tours

Pregnancy and Childbirth

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 by appointment. Please call 360-618-7754.

This six-week course for expectant parents includes information about emotional changes during pregnancy, the labor process, breathing techniques, the role of the support person, breastfeeding and a local pediatric care provider to discuss your baby’s first three months. The fee is $110.

Medical coupons are accepted. Full payment or a copy of your medical coupon is required two weeks before the class begins. Classes are offered at Skagit Valley Hospital. Pre-registration is required by calling 360-814-2424.

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.

NEW Prenatal and Postnatal Yoga Instruction Gently nurture your body with prenatal and postnatal yoga. Together, as a supportive community of women you will explore traditional yoga poses designed to balance and restore the physical needs of the new mother and the new baby. No prior yoga experience necessary. It is recommended that you begin postpartum yoga when you and your doctor decide it is best to start.

This may be as early as 6 – 8 weeks.

Classes will be held on Thursdays from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. in the Skagit Valley Hospital Family Birth Center Waiting Room. Pre-registration required by calling 360-814-2424. $10 per class.

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

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

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

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

Pregnant? Join us; for a “Materni-Tea”

Island County Public Health, Community and Family Health Clinic, Camano Island is located at 127 N. East Camano Drive, down the hall from Skagit Regional ClinicsCamano Island. WIC and other programs benefiting the health of our community are offered at this clinic.

Visit www.islandcountywa.gov for more information or call 360-387-0184.

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

Nurse-Family Partnership

Skagit Healthy Beginnings Line

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/firsttime-moms/stories-from-moms.

The Skagit Healthy Beginnings Line is an information and referral telephone line to help families of pregnant women and young children find helpful activities and services that promote health, development and well-being.

Call or text 360-630-8352 to talk with Child & Family Health staff at Skagit County Public Health. Calls will be answered or returned Monday through Friday during regular business hours.

Island County Health Department

Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Nutrition Program

Program Scheduler at 360-814-8329 or visit www.skagitregionalhealth. org, search Diabetes Education.

The WIC program provides healthy foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support and linkage to health and social services. WIC serves women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or post-partum and infants and children up to age 5. WIC is an equal opportunity provider and does not discriminate. Clinics are available at multiple locations across Skagit County: • Anacortes: 360-416-7595 • Arlington: 360-435-3735 • Camano Island: 360-387-0184 • Concrete: 360-854-0435 • Granite Falls: 360-691-7039 • Marysville: 360-657-4102 • Mount Vernon: 360-416-7595 • Sedro-Woolley: 360-854-0435 • Swinomish Indian Health Clinic: 360-466-3900

Diabetes during pregnancy, or gestational diabetes, can result in serious complications to your baby.

Skagit Valley Hospital offers a referralbased education program to improve gestational diabetes self-management skills, and provides tools for moms-tobe 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 EDUCATION

COMMUNITY RESOURCES – DIABETES RESOURCES National Diabetes Prevention Program

SKAGIT REGIONAL HEALTH – DIABETES EDUCATION 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

Cascade Valley Hospital in Arlington

Gestational Diabetes Program

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

This program can help you lower your risk for type 2 diabetes with gradual, modest lifestyle changes. The program includes year-long support and motivation beginning with 12 weekly class meetings, bi-weekly for the next four sessions and then monthly meetings for the last six sessions. The series of classes is scheduled to begin on Monday, January 29 from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. The next session will start in April.

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

CANCER SUPPORT SERVICES SKAGIT REGIONAL HEALTH – CANCER SUPPORT All programs are provided for cancer patients and survivors and are free of charge. For additional information on any of these services or events please call 360-814-8255.

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.

Cancer Support Group Cancer Care Center staff offer a monthly support group for individuals and their caregivers dealing with the emotional life changing challenges of a cancer diagnosis. The group is open and available on a drop-in basis (pre-registration welcomed). The group meets at 4 p.m. the second Thursday of each month. To register, or for further information, please contact Peter Wold, MSW, Oncology Social Worker at 360-814-8255 or via e-mail at pwold@skagitvalleyhospital.org.

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

BELOW: Rooftop Meditative Garden at Cascade Valley Hospital in Arlington

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Look Good, Feel Better

Grief Support Services

In-Service Education

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

Pre-registration is required; register by calling American Cancer Society Everett office at 425-404-2193.

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

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

JANUARY 22, MARCH 26 (MON) 1 – 3 p.m.

NO CLASS IN FEBRUARY Skagit Regional Health Cancer Care Center Safeway Conference Room (third floor) 307 South 13th Street, Mount Vernon Pre-registration required

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

Contact Amy Cheadle, YMCA Fitness Director at 360-336-9622 for more information.

GRIEF SUPPORT SERVICES HOSPICE OF THE NORTHWEST – GRIEF SUPPORT Community Education Are you interested in learning more about hospice services and what they might mean for you and your family? Hospice of the Northwest staff is available to give educational presentations to staff, clinicians and community groups. For more information, please call 360-814-7647 and schedule a time to speak with Dana Brothers about your needs.

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Hospice of the Northwest Resource Center: A free lending library open to the community With one of the largest collections of books on caregiving, coping with disease, end of life concerns, grief and spirituality, Hospice of the Northwest makes their valuable library resource available to anyone in the community.

Materials are appropriate for adults, teens and children, and staff is available to assist those interested in something specific. Visit the website at: www. hospicenw.org, selecting Helpful Resources, then click on Hospice Resource Library Catalog.

The Resource Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. in the lobby of the Hospice office at 227 Freeway Drive, Suite A in Mount Vernon, and after hours by appointment. For more information call Hospice of the Northwest at 360-814-5550.

Hospice Program Seeks Volunteers A unique and meaningful volunteer opportunity is available through Hospice of the Northwest serving Skagit, Island, San Juan and Snohomish counties. With more than a dozen different “job descriptions,” volunteers offer their skills, support and companionship to staff, families and individuals who are receiving hospice services. Volunteer training is scheduled a few times a year, and prospective volunteers must apply in advance. To learn more, contact our main office at 360-814-5550.

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT SERVICES COMMUNITY RESOURCES – MENTAL HEALTH Mental Health Support Group NAMI Skagit Open Support Group meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month from 7 – 9 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 1607 E Division, Mount Vernon, in the Fireside Room (enter through the main doors).

Family members and those living with mental illness are welcome. For more information contact Marti at 360-770-5666.

Family-to-Family EvidenceBased Education Program Free 12-session (six-week) course for families of adults with mental illness or a brain disorder. The course focuses on helping family members understand the major mental illnesses and maintain their own well-being while providing needed support to their ill family members. This program is provided by NAMI Skagit, an affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. The next course starts mid-February and will meet on Monday and Thursday evenings.

Call Marti at 360-770-5666 for more information. Space is limited so reservations are required.

Peer-to-Peer Education Program Free 10-session (five-week) course for adults with mental illness or brain disorders to help them better understand their illness and maintain and improve their recovery. NAMI Skagit provides this program at no charge. The next class will start in mid-February. Call Mark Dodds at 360-424-8224 for more information and to register. Space is limited.

Skagit Valley REACH Center

Parkinson’s BIG® Program

People come to Skagit Valley REACH Center to build confidence, self-esteem, and self-worth, being proactive in their mental health recovery and personal wellness. This peer-run center provides volunteer opportunities, community resources, housing education, employment education, public computer access, computer classes and self-supporting recovery classes. REACH works with individuals age 16 and older.

SVRC is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. and is located at 1413 E. College Way in Mount Vernon.

For information call 360-873-8635, or e-mail Center Director Mike Hudson hudsonm@cvab.org.

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 researchbased 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.

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

by Skagit Valley REACH Center.

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

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

Parkinson’s LOUD® Program Skagit Valley Hospital speech language pathologist, Kristin Conzo, MS, CCC-SLP has completed the required comprehensive hands-on training and testing through LSVT Global to become a certified LSVT LOUD clinician. LSVT LOUD is a research-based exercise program focused on amplitude (loud voice) training for individuals with Parkinson’s.

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

The protocol consists of 16 one-hour sessions, four days a week for four weeks. This program is appropriate for all stages of Parkinson’s disease. Please discuss program options with your healthcare provider; a physician referral is required. For more information: LSVTGlobal.com or call 360-814-2184.

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

by Skagit Regional Health neurologists and rehabilitation therapists. Meets the last Friday of each month from noon – 1 p.m. at Skagit Valley Hospital in the Speech Therapy Office (Room 102) in the Outpatient Rehabilitation Center. No charge. For more information call 360-814-8394 or e-mail kconzo@skagitregionalhealth.org.

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

Mount Vernon Caregiver Support Group A safe place for unpaid family caregivers their family and friends to exchange practical information on caregiving problems and possible solutions, talk through challenges and ways of coping, share feelings, needs and concerns and learn about resources available in the community. A monthly meeting is held on the first Thursday of each month from 10 – 11:30 a.m. at Skagit Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. 500 W Section Street Mount Vernon. For more information call Cheryl McRill at 360-899-4643.

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MAKE A DIFFERENCE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Volunteer Services at Skagit Regional Health The Volunteer Services Department at Skagit Regional Health coordinates the activities of more than 400 volunteers throughout the organization.

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

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

SOME OF THE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AT SKAGIT REGIONAL HEALTH INCLUDE: INFORMATION DESK VOLUNTEERS In addition to information desks at Skagit Valley Hospital, the Regional Cancer Care Center and Skagit Regional Clinics Mount Vernon, Volunteer Services also operates a volunteer information desk at SRC in Stanwood and at SRC Smokey Point.

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

PIANISTS We are always looking for new piano players to join the group of volunteers and staff who play our grand piano on a regular basis. If you are an accomplished pianist who would like to share your talent for others to enjoy, call 360-814-2142.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

Need a Doctor?

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

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

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

OTHER VOLUNTEER DEPARTMENT SERVICES:

Speakers Bureau

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

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

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.

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

VOLUNTEER SERVICES AT CASCADE VALLEY HOSPITAL

To inquire about volunteering at Cascade Valley Hospital in Arlington please contact Steve Schultz at 360-814-2142.

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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Skagit Regional Health’s Speakers Bureau provides speakers on a number of health care related topics, many at no cost. For more information on speaker topics or to schedule a presentation, call Val at 360-814-2424.

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

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

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

Turning a new page

Skagit Regional Health opens 2018 with a warm welcome to new leadership who bring energy, ideas and fresh sets of eyes on the future of health care in our community along with farewells and thank yous to retiring leaders.

The Board of Commissioners is very pleased that Brian Ivie, an experienced health care executive, is now at the helm as President and Chief Executive Officer (see page 27).

As a Board, we are confident that the administrative leadership we have in place will continue to strengthen Skagit Regional Health’s position as a health care leader in the Northwest with a reputation for providing excellence in patient care.

We want to thank two leaders who have been responsible for bringing Skagit Regional Health through the myriad changes in health care locally, regionally and nationally in recent years. Each has retired after more than 40 years in health care. President and CEO Mike Liepman retired at the

end of 2017 after a five-year career at Skagit Regional Health while CFO Tom Litaker retired in October after 23 years with Affiliated Health Services, Skagit Valley Hospital and Skagit Regional Health. Both brought incredible knowledge, vision and leadership to the organization, for which we are grateful.

And we thank outgoing Commissioner Clark Todd who served on the Board since 1990, with a two-year absence, and decided not to seek election to another term.

A now retired health care executive, Clark provided outstanding knowledge, strategic vision and awareness of the national health care dynamic. Clark represented the people of this community very well in his tenure on the Board and we appreciate that he shared his expertise and wisdom for nearly three decades.

With November’s election results in hand, we welcome new board member, Gary Shand, who was elected to a six-year term in November to replace Clark. Gary has served on the

organization’s Strategic Planning and Transformation Committee for the past two years and we look forward to his input and participation on the Board. Commissioner Julie Blazek, who was appointed to the Board in March 2017, was also elected to a six-year term in November.

In all, we have a great deal of change going on which brings with it opportunity, fresh perspectives and the chance to share information and dialogue. We have challenges ahead of us, but believe in the people of Skagit Regional Health as the right ones to bring us successfully through in 2018.

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

Gary Shand elected to Board Gary Shand was elected in November to serve a six-year term on the Skagit Regional Health Board of Commissioners and took the oath of office in January.

Shand has served on the Strategic Planning and Transformation committee for the past two years which he said “sparked” his interest in running for the board position, vacated by longtime Commissioner Clark Todd’s decision not to seek re-election.

Shand said his awareness of the breadth of health care grew when he accepted a position to run the Skagit County Jail in 2003.

“Working in the jail brought a whole new understanding of health care for me,” Shand said. “In the jail, we are responsible for the health and well-being of the people in the jail. You understand the cost and you learn to ask about insurance and what care is necessary.”

Shand said the key issues facing Skagit Regional health include providing access to care, maintaining high quality and addressing affordability, while dealing with the constant change facing the health care industry.

The organization’s improvements in technology, especially the conversion to a new Electronic Health Record,

is key to the future and providing a positive patient experience.

Shand served in the U.S. Air Force and spent 29 years with the Washington State Patrol, followed by nine years with the Skagit County Sherriff’s office. He currently works part time as the Secretary/Chief Examiner for the Skagit County Civil Service Commission.

Shand and his wife, Judy, live in Conway. He is a 15-year member of the Skagit-Mount Vernon Rotary Club.

Winter Fall 2017 2018

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PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

P.O. Box 1376 Mount Vernon, WA 98273-1376

PAID LITHTEX NW

Sponsored by Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation

*********ECRWSS**** POSTAL CUSTOMER

Taking a stroll. Building a snowman. Racing down the mountain. A healthy body is a body in motion. But when pain and immobility interrupt, your movements and the activities you love become a struggle.

The experts at Skagit Regional Health are dedicated to returning these joys to you. Our Board Certified Orthopedics and Sports Medicine team gets you back to living to the fullest, and moving without hesitation.

(360) 435-6641 ARLINGTON

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(360) 814-6800

MOUNT VERNON