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Magnificent MRI Patient comfort lies at the heart of Clinic’s new scanner New program gives seniors more access to care (PAGE 5) A Q&A with our sports medicine doc, Matt Taylor M.D. (PAGE 6)
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VOLUME 16
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NEW CHOICES FOR CARE
QUICKCARE, Lee Chamberlain, FNP-C | QuickCare.clinic Initially a mathematics teacher, Ms. Chamberlain was drawn to the medical field, partially because her father and uncles were physicians, and mother and aunt were nurses. “I found their stories fascinating and loved to see their faces light up when they spoke about their patients.” In addition, her father and mother’s work caring for the underserved sparked in her a similar desire. She currently volunteers at Community Outreach, Inc. in Corvallis and has volunteered at clinics in Sierra Leone, Mexico, and Costa Rica. “I feel honored to be practicing as a family nurse practitioner. I have been in nursing for almost 20 years. The longer I practice, the more humble I feel as I speak with patients and they discuss their thoughts and concerns, what they would like to achieve as they work toward meeting their optimal health goals, and what matters to them in their lives.” Outside of work, Ms. Chamberlain loves spending time with family and friends, and enjoys traveling, hiking, knitting and swimming. She is board certified by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.
INTEGRATED BEHAVORIAL HEALTH, Renee del Rio, Psy.D | 541-754-1987 (Family Medicine); 541-754-1260 (Internal Medicine) Dr. del Rio says it’s the times patients have their “aha” moments when she feels most gratified, such as helping a man realize his high blood pressure, stress and health anxiety were linked. “He learned new skills to manage them and avoided medication. He was then able to move on to his goal of managing his weight.” A licensed clinical psychologist, Dr. del Rio collaborates with Clinic patients and their Family Medicine and Internal Medicine providers located in the Asbury Building in Corvallis. This integrated approach to behavioral health makes sense to her. “I enjoy this avenue for treating the whole person and contributing toward patient health and wellness.” She treats patients 12 years and up who have behavioral health issues that are affecting their overall health. These include trauma, chronic illness, stress, weight management, anxiety, and bipolar and depression disorders. She also provides help with life transitions and offers multicultural counseling. Outside her practice, Dr. del Rio enjoys traveling with her children, watching movies with her husband and trying new vegan recipes.
RHEUMATOLOGY, John “Steve” Thompson, M.D. | 541-754-1371 Dr. Thompson sees medical care as a “collaboration between the doctor and the patient.” He strives to be compassionate and understanding, and he believes patients would describe him as “quiet but attentive, thorough and caring.” In addition to a career caring for people with common rheumatologic conditions, Dr. Thompson is especially gratified when he diagnoses and treats rare conditions. “I diagnosed and treated a person with a very rare disease called Whipple’s disease early in my career based on newly published and very distinctive neuro-ocular symptoms.” Dr. Thompson and his wife have two grown sons, and he enjoys hiking, biking, birding, reading and spending time with his family. He is certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology by the American Board of Internal Medicine.
INTEGRATED BEHAVIORAL HEALTH, Cara Wheeler, Psy.D. | 541-967-8221 For Dr. Wheeler, what was merely a minor field of study while pursuing a pre-medical degree eventually became her passion. “Psychology found me and I put it on like a favorite pair of jeans that had gotten lost in the closet.” She says her patients would describe her as approachable and warm. “I can identify with people from all walks of life, knowing that being human is an imperfect state.” A licensed clinical psychologist, Dr. Wheeler primarily supports Clinic pediatricians and obstetrician-gynecologists, treating patients two years and up who have behavioral health issues that are affecting their overall health and well being. She has special training in eating-disorder recovery and autism evaluation. Outside her practice, Dr. Wheeler loves to “explore the world” with her family. She enjoys arts and crafts and is learning to have a green thumb. “Also, as a mommy, I love engaging in learning activities and play.”
Clinic purchases latest in MRI technology The cover of this edition of Clinic Connection shows our three MRI Technologists, from left, Laura Kaplan, Mike Stringari—who is also Imaging Services Manager—and Bart Pierce, with the Siemens MAGNETOM Vida 3 Tesla (3T) MRI scanner, which The Corvallis Clinic recently purchased for $2 million. Starting on Page 2, read about how its latest technology offers features that optimize patient comfort, improve image quality and expand diagnostic capabilities. It also comes with the latest software (see above photo) to support its more accurate diagnostics and greater speed. Cover and above photo by Jodi B Herrling Photography.
Inside 2
Cover story: New MRI offers latest technology to area patients
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Sound reasoning: When it comes to protecting hearing, don’t forget the kids!
A publication of The Corvallis Clinic 444 NW Elks Drive, Corvallis, OR 97330 541-754-1150, Judy Corwin, Director of Marketing & Public Relations
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Solely for seniors: Clinic hires nurse practitioner to supplement care for its Medicare patients
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More web honors: The Clinic’s website among those receiving Leadership Distinction Award
Send comments or questions to Tony DeMeo, Editor, at tony.demeo@corvallisclinic.com.
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Sports Medicine Q&A: Matt Taylor, M.D, talks about how he loves getting athletes of all types back in the game
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Growing presence: Clinic to expand space, add more providers with new N. Albany building
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Forget fad diets: Nutritionist Lori Dodds shows how behavior, goals can lead to better health
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Clinical Research: Volunteer proud of her part in getting latest shingles vaccine to market
SPRING/SUMMER 2018
CorvallisClinic.com More than 100 providers in 27 specialties serving the mid-Willamette Valley at these locations: Asbury Building Aumann Building Immediate Care Center North Albany Village Philomath Family Medicine QuickCare Albany QuickCare Corvallis Surgery Center Walnut Boulevard Waverly Drive Albany
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Above: MRI Technologists Bart Pierce, left, and Laura Kaplan hold a chain to demonstrate the magnetic power of The Clinic’s new MAGNETOM Vida 3 Tesla (3T) MRI scanner. Page 3: With more than 70 years of combined experience, Bart Pierce, Mike Stringari and Laura Kaplan, seen left to right through the bore of the MAGNETOM Vida, are some of the best-skilled MRI technologists on the West Coast.
New MRI provides the best in patient comfort BY HANNA KNOWLES PHOTOS BY JODI B HERRLING PHOTOGRAPHY
You’re strapped in, slid through a tube and hear loud banging noises. With 30 years in the imaging field, Bart Pierce knows this typical MRI experience can make some people feel intimidated and uneasy. “Anything we can do to streamline the process, reduce the time spent in the scanner and make the patient more comfortable will provide a better diagnostic result and less anxiety for the patient,” The Corvallis Clinic MRI Technologist said. The Clinic has accomplished all of that with its purchase of the Siemens MAGNETOM Vida 3 Tesla (3T), an MRI with the latest technology to create 2
optimal comfort for patients, along with offering more diagnostic capabilities for providers. This MRI is only one of three located on the West Coast so far. The other two scanners are located in academic research centers.
Improved Patient Experience The MAGNETOM Vida, and its technology, was specifically designed with the patient in mind. Overall, the larger bore and table provide a more comfortable experience. And for some exams, equipment placed on or near patients will be reduced. Additionally, Clinic technicians can now tailor exams to fit someone’s particular conditions. For instance,
WHAT IT MEANS FOR PATIENTS • Roomier: Extra four inches on each side of tunnel for extra comfort, especially for larger patients. • Quieter: Some scans are significantly easier on patients’ ears. Music and mood lighting are also available. • Quicker: Head scans take less time and reduce the anxiety for those who are claustrophobic. • Easier: Breath holds are reduced, and “free-breathing” exams are an option for those who can’t hold their breath.
WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING
exams that used to require prolonged breath holds can now be conducted with shorter breath holds or even free-breathing exams. The ability to speed up scans or provide a quieter or completely silent scan is also available for certain exams.
Out with the Old, In with the New The opportunity to replace The Clinic’s previous MRI machine could not have come at a better time. With recent FDA approval, The Clinic’s team evaluated the feasibility of bringing the cutting-edge BioMatrix technology to the Willamette Valley. Mike Stringari, Imaging Services Manager, said the decision displays The Clinic’s commitment to providing the best care for its patients. Pierce agreed and emphasized how the purchase provides The Clinic’s patients with advanced technology. “There is no one else in the Northwest that has this type of technology,” said Pierce. “Facilities will be looking to us for how to harness this incredible technology.”
Leading Technology The Vida MRI contains new BioMatrix technology, specifically BioMatrix Sensors, Tuners and Interfaces. Each of these technologies leads to more efficient exams, advanced scanning capabilities and more detailed images from inside the body. “Moving from a 1.5T to a 3T platform, we will be able to do more complex neuroimaging—new 3D imaging not available on our previous scanner,” said MRI Technician Laura Kaplan. Charmin Sagert, M.D., chairperson of The Clinic’s Neurology Department, SPRING/SUMMER 2018
BIOMATRIX TECHNOLOGY AT A GLANCE FDA-approved in summer 2017, BioMatrix Technology specifically entails the following: • BioMatrix Sensors: Automatically detects and displays respiratory data, eliminating the need to have straps placed around a patient’s midsection. • BioMatrix Tuners: Allows for consistent machine tuning, resulting in superior diagnostic images and fewer repeat scans. • BioMatrix Interfaces: Automates some repetitive tasks, such as patient positioning, coil selection and image reconstruction, allowing technologists to spend more time with the patient. agreed stating, “The better-quality images go a long way to improve diagnosis and treatment of neurological and other disorders.” The Clinic will also be able to deliver these improved images at a value. “This flagship machine puts magnetic resonance imaging at The Corvallis Clinic in a strategic position to provide the best images at the best value for years to come,” said Terry Crowder, Director of Primary Care and Ancillary Services. “Outpatient imaging centers are often less expensive than inpatient centers. This machine will certainly provide the best value for your healthcare dollar in Oregon.” The Imaging Department (CorvallisClinic.com/imaging) can be reached at 541-754-1373.
“The Corvallis Clinic is an ideal setting for the MAGNETOM Vida because it possesses a large breadth of patients, will use the system for a broad range of imaging applications and demands and delivers the highest levels of patient care. Its decision to install the MAGNETOM Vida demonstrates that it is forward-thinking and has the best interests of its patients and physicians in mind. The Clinic understands the value of providing the best image quality consistently without compromising patient satisfaction.” ERIC ZUROWSKI, MRI Marketing Communications Manager, Diagnostic Imaging, Siemens Healthcare
“TCC was due for an upgrade in MRI technology and carefully evaluated the various vendors and packages that are currently available. The new MRI equipment will play an important role in the diagnosis and management of The Clinic’s patients for years to come.” KEVIN O’CONNOR, M.D., Neuro-Radiologist, Corvallis Radiology
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Meet The Corvallis Clinic MRI Technologists BART PIERCE Title: MRI Safety Officer/MRI Technologist II Background: 30 years of imaging experience, starting when the first MRI was installed in Corvallis; worked at Samaritan Health for 23 years before starting at The Clinic in 2016 Education: BS in Microbiology, Oregon State University; Albany School of Radiologic Technology with honors Licensure: Radiography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Oregon Board of Medical Imaging Certifications: Radiography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging, American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT); Magnetic Resonance Safety Officer (MRSO), American Board of Magnetic Resonance Safety Professional Affiliations: Life member of Oregon Society of Radiologic Technology (OSRT); fellow of the American Society of Radiologic Technology (ASRT); member of the Society of Magnetic Resonance Technology (SMRT) Miscellaneous: Volunteer for RADAID International, which sends people overseas to help train imaging professionals and promote improved access to radiology services; past director of Ethiopia program and went to Addis Ababa to help train MRI technologists. National MRI Delegate to the ASRT House of Delegates and vice president of OSRT. Adjunct professor at Portland Community College, MRI Program; owner of Voxel MR Resources, LLC, an MRI consulting business; maintain an ARRT MRI Registry 4
Review website called MRI Tutor. Published in various publications and a national speaker. Personal: “I am a dog person.” Bart raises and trains dogs in agility and nose-work. He is also a cyclist who completed his first Seattle-to-Portland ride in 2017. Thoughts on the new MRI: “Installing the Vida will be the crowning achievement in my career. It will give me the opportunity to work on the best and latest technology available anywhere in Oregon, and in fact, the U.S. It will allow me to utilize my skills and be challenged in a way that has never before been possible. It is difficult to explain or define just how far MRI technology has come since I began my career 30 years ago. It will allow me to take care of the patient in ways not available before and to make their MRI experience one that they will remember in a good way.”
LAURA KAPLAN Title: MRI Technologist Background: 30 years of imaging experience, joined The Clinic in 2004 Education: AA General Education and AS Biology/Science, Shasta College, Redding, CA; AS Radiologic Technology, Foothill College, Los Altos, CA Licensure: Radiography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Oregon Board of Medical Imaging Certifications: Radiography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging, American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Professional Affiliations: American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT)
Personal: Laura is a wife, mother of two daughters and grandmother to two grandchildren. She enjoys running, cooking and anything that allows her to go outside and enjoy Oregon. She and her husband recently bought a fifth wheel trailer. “We are looking forward to enjoying our time seeing Oregon!” Thoughts on the new MRI: “Since our last scanner was produced, new pulse sequences and coil technology have been developed, and the new scanner will offer all of this to us. A patient may not care about or understand these new technologies, but they do care about a correct diagnosis or test results. The new scanner and coils will help radiologists see more clearly the anatomy and pathology that the patient presents.”
MICHAEL STRINGARI Title: Imaging Services Manager Education: AS, Medical Imaging, Oregon Institute of Technology, Klamath Falls, OR Background: 32 years of imaging experience, joined The Clinic in 1995 Licensure: Magnetic Imaging Resonance and Sonography, Oregon Board of Medical Imaging Certifications: Radiography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging, American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT); Ultrasound Certificate, OHSU, 1988; Registered General Ultrasound, Cardiac Adult and Pediatric Ultrasound, Registered Vascular Technologist, American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
Professional Affiliations: Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography and American Society of Radiologic Technologists Miscellaneous: He is The Clinic Coordinator of Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS), Radiology Information Services (RIS) and Electronic Medical Records (EMR). Personal: Michael has been married for 37 years and has two adult children. He enjoys music, bowling, fishing and the outdoors. Thoughts on the new MRI: “This decision ultimately displays our mission to provide the very best care for our patients. It shows that commitment in a real, tangible way. The installation of this scanner completes the renovation of the imaging department in terms of technology. We have an imaging department that is squarely set to provide state-of-the-art imaging for our patients for many years to come. Add that to a staff that is second to none in experience and longevity, and we are a standout department anywhere.”
New Clinic program adds access, supplements care for Medicare patients BY KEITH BOWERS FOR THE CORVALLIS CLINIC
Schneider concluded of his visit. “She Franz Schneider was a bit puzzled when demonstrated competence, tact and his primary care physician, Corvallis Clinic thoroughness.” internist Robert Wirth, M.D., suggested he get his free Medicare Annual Wellness Clarity Sought Visit exam through a new program at The Clinic’s Chief Medical Officer Lance The Clinic. “Why a new program while I McQuillan, M.D., said what prompted The have one of the best doctors I ever had?” Clinic to spearhead the program’s creation asked the professor emeritus of English was the “tremendous confusion” among and Comparative Literature at Gonzaga patients, staff and providers concerning University. the difference between a Medicare However, Schneider’s first visit to the Annual Wellness Visit and a traditional Medicare Wellness Program and its provider, physical exam. Nurse Practitioner Elisabeth Mahmud “As a result,” Dr. McQuillan said, “we (CorvallisClinic.com/Mahmud), typified the were not providing the Annual Wellness service’s intent – a supplement to a person’s Visit as often as we should have been. primary care provider by offering enhanced It’s a good service that’s free to patients, access to help ensure one’s healthcare and it is a nice way to ensure that we’re needs are met. covering all the screening and prevention After Mahmud (pronounced ma-mood) recommendations.” went over Schneider’s health history, the In the Annual Wellness Visit, Mahmud certified adult-geriatric nurse practitioner asks about patient risk factors, medications, discovered a serious problem on his right recent tests and any chronic conditions foot that had developed since his last that might exist. appointment with In addition, Dr. Wirth. “Elisabeth Mahmud offers was of practical help disease-prevention right away when counseling and she prescribed a information on medication, which available resources. was effective almost An annual immediately,” comprehensive Schneider said. exam or annual Mahmud then physical visit referred him to with a primary specialty wound care provider, on care, during which the other hand, further issues were is a “hands-on” found and are now appointment. With Adult-Geriatric Nurse Practitioner Elisabeth being treated. Mahmud, above, managing the free Medicare “Traditionally, “Elisabeth was very Annual Wellness Visit, primary care providers at primary care The Corvallis Clinic can spend additional time open and cordial, providers have with their Medicare patients during the more but altogether completed both in comprehensive annual physical exam. very professional,” Photo by Jodi B Herrling Photography
CONTINUED ON PAGE 7
SPRING/SUMMER 2018
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Q & A with Dr. Matthew Taylor: Sports Medicine Physician Matthew Taylor, M.D., completed a fellowship in Primary Care Sports Medicine at Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine in Kalamazoo, Mich., in 2012. Certified by the American Board of Family Medicine with a Certificate of Added Qualification in Sports Medicine, Matthew Taylor, M.D. Dr. Taylor offers non-surgical treatments for pain and injuries related to sports and other exercise, along with preventive measures. He also has a special interest in concussion management. Dr. Taylor practices in The Clinic’s Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Department, and he is a member of the Concussion Care team. To schedule an appointment, visit CorvallisClinic.com/Taylor or call 541-754-1276.
sports participation, from the weekend warrior and the professional athlete.
How did you become interested in sports medicine?
I am very specific when explaining to patients about their issue. It’s not unusual for them to leave with artwork depicting what is torn or injured.
It was a childhood goal of mine to become a doctor, and I’ve always loved sports, both as a participant and a spectator. Being a sports medicine physician gives me the opportunity to be part of a team and be on the sidelines providing medical coverage.
What is your role as a sports medicine physician? I take care of any kind of problem that arises in athletes, which includes problems specific to young athletes, master athletes, female athletes and so on. The issues are predominately orthopedic or musculoskeletal in nature, but many other conditions can arise, anything from skin conditions in wrestlers, to cardiovascular problems, to concussions in any sport. Additionally, I want to be a resource available to the community for athletes of all ages and at all levels of
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What is your main goal? I want to be able to help athletes return safely to their sport and get people back to the activities they love, without drastic intervention. If we can make simple changes to training regimens, lifestyle or foot wear, and patients feel better—that’s a win. I try to do as much as I can conservatively and then refer to our surgeons when needed.
What do you enjoy most about being a sports medicine physician? My patients are motivated. They want to get healthy and return to the game or to the course. It’s very rewarding to help people get back to doing what they love.
What is your approach to care?
How did your interest in concussion care start? My interest comes from the fact that concussions are so common in sports and life in general. The goal in a sports medicine program is to be able to manage the conditions that develop in any athlete regardless of their level of activity. Being able to appropriately manage concussions is a big part of that program. I thoroughly enjoy helping athletes through the process of recovery.
What skills do you, as a certified sports medicine physician, bring to concussion patients? Concussions can be scary and provoke anxiety. There are so many myths and questions about concussion management, prevention and the long-term side effects. I can help athletes,
parents and others to discern accurate information about concussions. One of the primary concerns in concussion management is identification of true concussions versus other head injuries. Not every headache or head injury is truly a concussion. There are many different types of head injuries that are actually much more severe than a concussion. The vast majority of sportsassociated concussions resolve very quickly, usually within just a couple of weeks. These concussions can be managed entirely through officebased management by a primary care sports medicine physician, such as me, who is trained in concussion management. These are the types of concussions I see in the office each week. Throughout patient recovery, I focus on managing symptoms and getting the patient back to work, school or sports participation. Only a small percentage of sportsrelated concussions are going to require further investigation and treatment.
What’s the most important aspect of concussion care? Patients with concussion symptoms need to be seen as soon as possible to help them recover and dispel worries and concerns. I would like to see them almost immediately to help prevent further problems, and even some very serious complications, that can result from a head injury.
What do you do outside your practice? What I most identify with right now is being a dad. My wife and I like to take our four young children camping and hiking. I am an avid sports fan, and I love being outdoors.
SPRING/SUMMER 2018
Medicare CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 one long visit,” Dr. McQuillan said. “This and worked for a time as a counselor can result in a rushed appointment, but eventually found that she wanted leaving providers little time to focus on to help patients take charge of their the physical exam and even less time for physical health as well. patients to bring up the often multiple “I want patients to understand their health concerns that arise over the year.” health and be put on a healing path,” Mahmud said. Mahmud doesn’t replace a patient’s Before joining The Clinic, Mahmud primary care provider, but rather she was a nurse practitioner at Crown and the wellness exam supplement Health Medical House Call Service in that care. All Medicare and Medicare Maple Valley, Advantage-plan Wash., from patients who Call 541-757-3750 with any 2016 to 2017. have their primary questions about our Medicare She earned a care at The Wellness Program or to schedule Master of Science Corvallis Clinic an appointment for your Annual in Nursing from are eligible to Medicare Wellness Visit. Seattle University participate in The in 2016 and is Clinic’s Wellness certified by the Visit Program. American Academy of Nurse The Annual Wellness Visit is part of a Practitioners Certification Board in Medicare Program that also includes Adult-Gerontology Primary Care. an initial free visit called Welcome to Medicare, which Mahmud provides “Patients really enjoy working as well. with her” Daniel Barrett, M.D., a family medicine One of Mahmud’s patients (who physician at The Clinic, said Mahmud asked not to be identified by name) performing the wellness exams allows described the Annual Wellness Visit him to spend more time with patients as “very positive,” adding that “there on specific health issues. seemed to be no time constraints as “She makes a positive impact on there normally are when seeing efficient health care delivery,” Dr. Barrett my doctor.” said. “I can focus on management of the The patient said Mahmud “reviewed chronic conditions and physical exam.” my health records with me, asked
Her Path to Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Mahmud said her road to becoming an adult-geriatric nurse practitioner began when she was a nursing assistant, and she was moved by hearing stories that older patients would tell. “Usually, people of this generation like to tell stories,” she said, “and there is no one better to learn from than someone who’s been around for a long time and had a lot of experiences.” She observed that when someone listened to them, it helped these patients heal emotionally. Mahmud earned a master’s degree in psychology
relevant questions about my current health and responded appropriately to my answers.” The patient concluded that “it is probably advantageous for most patients to spend time having a ‘casual conversation’ with a well-informed health professional before seeing their primary care providers.” “Having this service take place through Elisabeth has provided a nice level of consistency and predictability,” Dr. McQuillan said. “Plus, Elisabeth is a wonderful provider who is a great addition to the care team. Patients really enjoy working with her.”
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Clinic to grow its presence in North Albany The Corvallis Clinic will add space and more providers in North Albany when it opens a new building in the fall. The new building will increase the size of The Clinic’s North Albany presence, growing square footage from 7,200 in the current North Albany Village location to about 15,000 and adding a second floor with space for eight providers. “The facility will improve patient access for both primary care and certain specialty care,” said Robert Wirth, M.D., a member of The Corvallis Clinic Board of Directors and an internal medicine physician at The Clinic’s North Albany Village location. He said specialties such as pulmonology, neurology and dermatology may be offered at the new location. In addition, exam rooms will be larger and laboratory services 8
will be available. “The overall patient experience will be improved,” Dr. Wirth said. The new building will be located on NW North Albany Road, between Highway 20 and NW Hickory Street.
The Clinic will also be adding two new primary care providers to its North Albany location prior to the opening of the new building, bringing the total to six. Marizta Rosales, M.D., a family
medicine physician, will start in late August. A second new provider is being recruited to the practice. Rubicon Investments is partnering with TVA Architects and LCG Pence Construction to develop the replacement medical office building. Rubicon Investments has a branch location in Corvallis and a tenantlandlord relationship with The Clinic through current holdings. “We take great pride in our relationship with The Corvallis Clinic,” said Daniel Bunn, president and CEO of Rubicon Investments. “We are honored to continue this partnership with an expansion that allows The Clinic to provide excellent care to more people in the communities it serves.” This project is applying a new approach to design and construction that is both patient and provider centric. “Our team has an incredible talent for collaborating and understanding the tenant’s needs, from workflow to the overall customer experience,” said Justin Hurley Braswell,
Top left: The Clinic’s new building in North Albany, seen here in an artist’s rendering, will accommodate eight providers. The two-story structure will be 15,000 square feet, adding about 7,800 to the current facility. Bottom left: The Corvallis Clinic and its Rubicon Investment partners broke ground for the new North Albany facility in January. Pictured from Rubicon Investments, from far left: Daniel Bunn, president and CEO; Georgia Bunn, vice president; and Justin Hurley Braswell, executive vice president and chief strategy officer. Pictured from The Clinic, starting fourth from left: Anton Grube, facilities manager; Brad Wakefield, former CEO; Robert Wirth, M.D., member of the Board of Directors and internal medicine physician in North Albany; and Lance McQuillan, M.D., chief medical officer and family medicine physician. Photo by Jodi B Herrling Photography
executive vice president and chief strategy officer for Rubicon. “I am very excited to have shared this expertise with The Corvallis Clinic and am looking forward to seeing this project through to completion.” Mandy Butler, principal at TVA Architects, said, “Given our longstanding relationships with Rubicon Investments and LCG Pence Construction, everyone at TVA Architects is excited to deliver a thoughtful, architectural solution to support the continued success of The Corvallis Clinic staff and wellness of their patients. We are extremely proud to design a new facility that will increase the amount of providers and services in the North Albany area.” LCG Pence recently completed construction of a large development for Rubicon. Principal Paul Schulz said the firm is thrilled to partner on another project. “Rubicon is an exceptional developer and has forged a tight project team,” said Schulz. “The medical construction market in the Willamette Valley, including Albany and Corvallis, provides ample opportunities for us to work with local contractors. We’re all excited to get underway.” SPRING/SUMMER 2018
Target key behaviors and use SMART goals for better health BY LORI DODDS, BS, RDN, LD
For many people, the quest to be healthier includes some fad diet. Common sense tells you this tactic won’t work—certainly for long term. Yet, you are so desperate to lose weight, you are willing to try anything! But why attempt a regimen that will soon be added to the scrapheap of all the other fad diets that have been tried and failed? Why not focus your efforts on things that really work?
Lori Dodds, BS, RDN, LD
HERE ARE A FEW OF MY KEY RECOMMENDATIONS TO HELP GUIDE YOU INTO BETTER HEALTH: Metabolic Testing Knowing your individual metabolism is key information since it determines precisely how many calories your body needs at rest to support vital bodily functions that keep you alive. From this baseline, calories required for daily performance of activities and exercise are added, providing an optimal calorie range necessary to achieve weight goals. The Corvallis Clinic Weight Loss Center offers Resting Metabolic Rate Testing, which is usually covered by insurance.
Create SMART Goals Instead of making a goal that is vague, such as “lose weight,” set specific targets that you know will be realistic, recognized and appreciated in the near future. This act will help you remain motivated and inspired. SMART goals are: • SPECIFIC. Determine “what,” “when,” “why” and “how” you plan to accomplish these goals. • MEASUREABLE. Identify ways to measure and keep track of your progress. Have tangible evidence of your accomplishments. • ACHIEVABLE. Goals should be defined well enough to be challenging yet still attainable. • REALISTIC & REWARDING. Make your goals realistic by considering the impact of such things as time, money, skills, support and attitude. • TIMELY. In order to stay on task, set a semi-urgent, yet practical, timeframe to accomplish goals so as to not lose vision or motivation.
Choose Whole Foods Choose foods as though you are harvesting from your backyard garden, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. These foods are typically rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber. Reduce highly refined, processed and restaurant foods. These foods not only contribute approximately 75 percent of our daily sodium intake, but are often high in fat, sugar and excess calories.
Consume Lean Protein Aim for 20–30 grams of lean protein three times per day. This will help preserve lean muscle mass as you age, curtail hunger between meals, reduce food cravings and provide energy and vitality. CONTINUED ON PAGE 11 9
Woman recounts experience in trial that put better shingles vaccine on market BY JULIE CARRICO, MBA, CCRC
In her mother, sister and a dear friend, Mary Carper had seen the suffering that occurs from shingles. So, when Corvallis Clinic internist Dr. Michael Chen and the Clinical Research Center began recruiting people for the nationwide Shingrix trial study, the retired NASA employee eagerly signed up. She wanted to be a part of developing a better shingles vaccine. She wanted to help protect herself and others from the debilitating pain of this viral infection. Mary and others involved in the study were happy to find out in October that the Food and Drug Administration approved the Shingrix vaccine for the prevention of shingles. Shingrix was developed to overcome the decline in immunity that often stems from aging. Study participants had to be 65 or older. In addition, they either had not been vaccinated with Zostavax or had been vaccinated with Zostavax five or more years earlier. The study, sponsored by the pharmaceutical company GSK, showed that Shingrix provides considerably greater protection than Zostavax. It also demonstrated that this protection is sustained at a high level for at least four years.
Mary and the other Clinical Research Center study participants were required to visit The Corvallis Clinic six times, with monthly telephone contacts, over a 14-month period. The investigational study vaccine was given by injection twice: once at the first visit and two months later at the third visit. All study-related procedures and the investigational vaccine were provided at no cost to participants. “My obligations during the study were to be aware and responsible,” said Mary, who also participated in a Research Center study in 2008. “I had to report any illness and be vigilant about noticing any changes. I also had to be available for phone calls once per month for the duration of the study.” She said the phone calls were about two minutes long. Mary could not point out anything bad about her experience—even the required blood drawing! “I couldn’t even feel it,” she said, in praise of the Research staff who drew it. She said the vaccinations themselves were not painful, nor was her arm unusually sore afterward. The best part of being in the study for Mary? “Knowing the vaccine was approved so quickly,” she said. “It was a great study—easy and very rewarding.
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See page 13 for a list of currently enrolling studies at the Clinical Reseach Center. I would encourage others to be involved in studies because it would benefit themselves and others.” The Clinical Research Center is currently seeking volunteer patients in studies for Alzheimer’s disease, Type 2 diabetes and a vaccine for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). If you are interested in learning more about clinical trials, contact the Clinical Research Center at 541-766-2163. You can also email research@corvallisclinic.com. And, don’t forget to follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/corvallisclinicresearch.
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Albany: Heritage Mall, 1815 14th Ave. SE Corvallis: 2001 NW Monroe, Ste. 104
Sound Reasoning Protect your child’s hearing BY DIANE L. BACH, CERTIFIED HEARING INSTRUMENT SPECIALIST
In our world of clanking industry, noisy traffic and loud movies and music, we usually are unaware that children are also susceptible to noise-induced hearing loss. Over time, exposure to these sounds can decrease the hearing ability of these tender Diane Bach new ears. With a few simple guidelines, however, we can help protect those precious young ears—and older ears as well! First, we need to teach our children and grandchildren and other youngsters to respect their hearing so they can then appreciate and protect it. For example, have a child listen to their favorite instrument and then put earplugs in their ears to block the sound. This will help them understand what it would be like to be in a silent or muffled world. Also, demonstrate to them what a normal level of music sounds like versus really loud music. Many of us have smartphones and can download
SMART Goals CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 Practice Mindfulness • Use MyPlate guidelines to help ensure variety and keep portion size in check. Use smaller plates vs. large and fill half of the plate with non-starchy vegetables, a quarter of the plate with lean proteins and a quarter with whole grains/starchy vegetables. • Consume three balanced meals per day and include lean protein snacks if your eating times are more than four hours apart. • Preplan your meals so they are thought out, deliberate, mindful and well balanced. • Sit down for meals and rid yourself of outside distractions to allow yourself the ability to genuinely enjoy, savor and appreciate your food. • Eat slowly, as it takes 15-20 minutes to recognize satiety and fullness. Pause half way through your meal to gauge your current hunger and appetite. • Take time to assess your hunger. Are you truly hungry or instead wanting to eat due to stress, boredom or exhaustion? Physical conditions such as dehydration and fatigue can mimic hunger, and mental stress may lead to emotional eating. Choosing exercise rather than eating may be a better solution.
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a sound-level meter application. Show youngsters how to measure different sound levels to help them understand the range of loudness in the world and what is considered dangerous. Limit a child’s time spent on watching a video or playing a game on their iPads. This can reduce the risk of possible hearing loss. Anyone who attends a musical concert should bring earplugs to help diminish potentially harmful sound levels. Speaking of listening to music, make sure headphones bought for children are ones that have set volume controls so the sound level goes no higher than what is considered safe. Wearing headphones—which come in bright, attractive colors—encourages good practices in children. Not only should we be more diligent in protecting the hearing of young people, but also our own. It is easy to fall into the habit of playing our music a little too loud or even engaging in common household activities associated with loud sounds, such as vacuuming, mowing the lawn and running power equipment. We only have one set of ears, so protect them. There is no substitute for great hearing! Hearing Instrument Specialist Diane Bach can be reached at The Corvallis Clinic Ear, Nose and Throat Department, 541-754-1251.
Physical Activity • Aerobic activity helps pull fat out of storage and utilize it for energy. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity. • Muscle-strengthening exercises help either sustain or build more lean muscle mass or both, which in turn increases metabolism. The CDC recommends conducting these exercises at moderate- or high-intensity two or more days per week. • Track your steps. Fitness trackers can be a very powerful tool to gauge how active or sedentary you are. Achieving 10,000 steps per day confirms you have a fairly active lifestyle. So, ditch the grandiose fad diets that are bound to fail. Instead, identify specific behaviors that are not working in your favor. Incorporate SMART goals to help you eat better, feel better and set yourself up for the healthiest you yet! To learn more about metabolic testing or to schedule an appointment for weight loss consultations, call The Corvallis Clinic Weight Loss Center at 541-766-2180. Lori Dodds is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Licensed Dietitian at The Corvallis Clinic Nutrition Services Department. She is also the Program Coordinator at The Corvallis Clinic Weight Loss Center.
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Clinic website receives another national award The Corvallis Clinic’s website has received a 2017 eHealthcare Leadership Distinction Award for Best Overall Internet Site in the Medical Practice/Outpatient Facility category. This is the second award for The Clinic’s new website that was officially launched in January 2017. In the summer, the site received a 2017 Aster Gold Award by scoring among the top five percent of nationwide submissions. The Clinic shares both website awards with Visual People Design of Corvallis. Judges at the eHealthcare Leadership Awards looked at how websites and other digital communications compared with others in their organization’s classification. They also reviewed entries based on a proprietary multi-point standard of internet excellence. For example, the Best Overall Internet Site category, in which The Clinic won its award, had to address more than 40 factors. “Digital marketing and communications in healthcare organizations continue to evolve rapidly and we were thrilled to recognize the best of the best in the industry,” said Matt Humphrey, president of Plain-English Health Care and producer of the eHealthcare Leadership Awards. “We see winning organizations focusing on improving the patient or
consumer experience in everything they do, from web and app design to content, rich media, social networking and marketing campaigns.” Jane Weber Brubaker, chair of the eHealthcare Leadership Awards, noted that “Winners range from small and large healthcare provider organizations to business-to-business and medical device companies, but they share these common attributes: they understand their target audience, and they know how to present information in a format that is both pleasing to the eye and highly functional. Visitors to these sites can easily find what they are looking for and accomplish what they set out to do. That experience creates a bond between the user and the organization’s brand—and it drives business outcomes.” Winners of platinum, gold, silver and distinction awards represented 17 industry classifications, from hospitals and health systems to pharmaceutical firms and online health companies. This year 116 individuals familiar with healthcare and the internet evaluated some 1,000 entries. About 200 organizations received awards, which were announced at the 21st Annual Healthcare Internet Conference in October.
Click here for everything about you Sign up today for The Corvallis Clinic Patient Portal The Clinic’s Patient Portal offers you a secure, online doorway to: • View your health information and lab results • Exchange messages with your care team • Request appointments and prescription refills • Pay or view your bills Register on Your Smartphone: Ask our staff to send you a text message or email at your next appointment so you can register. Follow the instructions and begin to manage your health anywhere, anytime. Register at Home: If you prefer to sign up at home, go to CorvallisClinic.com, click Patient Portal and then Register. Follow the instructions.
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An informed mind is a healthy mind To learn about classes and events offered on important health issues that matter to you and your family, visit CorvallisClinic.com..
Healthy Baby Each Healthy Baby session features one of our expert pediatricians. Pediatric topics include normal newborn appearance, crying, sleeping and bathing, development, medical care and problems, nutrition and breastfeeding.
Tuesdays, 7 p.m., Asbury Dining Room, May 1, June 5, July 3, Aug. 7, Sept. 4, Oct. 7, Nov. 6, Dec. 4 Register: 541-738-2075 or CorvallisClinic.com/classes
Baby Bundle Each Baby Bundle session features Clinic obstetricians discussing childbirth, including signs of labor, birthing options, pain relief, when to call your doctor, partner help during labor and choosing your baby’s doctor.
Wednesday, 7 p.m., Asbury Dining Room, May 8, Aug. 8, Nov. 14 Register: 541-738-2075 or CorvallisClinic.com/classes
Clinical Research currently enrolling studies • Alzheimer’s Disease: Alex Wang, M.D.; Richard Lafrance, M.D. • Type 2 Diabetes: Michael Chen, M.D.; Lindsay Bromley, M.D.; Ruth Palma, FNP • Vaccine Study for COPD Patients: Vincent Gimino, M.D.; Griffith Liang, M.D.; Michael Chen, M.D. To learn more about ongoing and upcoming studies at The Corvallis Clinic’s Clinical Research Center, or to learn about becoming a study volunteer, see CorvallisClinic.com/research or call the center at 541-766-2163. Also, visit our blog by going to CorvallisClinic.com, clicking Blog and then selecting Clinical Research. SPRING/SUMMER 2018
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444 NW Elks Drive Corvallis, OR 97330
My First Choice for Health Care YOUR HEALTH IS PERSONAL, which is why choosing a doctor is such an important decision. And why most of us ask others for recommendations. More than 100,000 individuals and families have made The Corvallis Clinic their first choice for health care. Patients tell us it’s because of the warm, friendly feeling here. Most important, they value being treated with the understanding and respect that is a hallmark of care at The Corvallis Clinic. It’s no wonder 93% of our patients say they would recommend their doctor to others. Call us today to set up an appointment and make The Corvallis Clinic your first choice for health care!
Find a Physician 541-757-3757 | CorvallisClinic.com