Lily`s Hope - WCA Hospital
Transcription
Lily`s Hope - WCA Hospital
Since 1885, The Heartbeat Of Our Community NewsLink January/February 2011 Lily’s Hope Zonta Club Leads Effort To Help Local Women Lily Olson could not believe that her friend, who lost her hair while undergoing cancer treatments, could not find a suitable wig locally. Feeling empathy for her friend’s anguish, Lily realized she needed to do something to rectify the situation and brought the issue to her Zonta club friends. Hence, it follows that Lily’s Hope was born. On Tuesday, November 19th, Zonta members, WCA leadership and employees, and community supporters gathered together to officially open Lily’s Hope-a Center sponsored by Lily’s Hope inspired by Lily Olson (above) the caring ladies of the Zonta Club of Jamestown in partnership with WCA Hospital that serves women diagnosed with cancer or any other medical condition that caused them to lose their hair with a free wig, cap, turban or scarf. (Cont.Page 4) N e w s I n B r i e f -Demolition Nearing Completion on WCA South Building. Demolition is nearing completion on the WCA Hospital South Building on Prather Avenue that will make way for our new 18,000-square-foot Emergency Department. Featuring a 21st-century design and twentyeight private treatment rooms, our new Emergency Department will maintain and enhance the quality of care for which WCA is locally known and nationally recognized. An architectural rendering of the future state-of-the-art Emergency Department at WCA Hospital Capital Campaign Reaches 80% of GOAL These are exciting days at WCA as our Sharing the Gift of Health: The Capital Campaign for Our New Emergency Department continues to make great strides. To date, thanks to the generosity of many individuals, businesses, organizations, and foundations, WCA is pleased to announce that we have reached 80% of our capital campaign goal by securing over $13.3 million dollars in gifts, grants, and pledges toward our $16.5 million dollar goal. On Saturday, November 6th, WCA hosted a Dinner Event to benefit Sharing the Gift of Health at the historic Athenaeum Hotel inside Chautauqua Institution. Guests enjoyed a delicious dinner and a special program which featured patient and family testimonials, along with our campaign video. At the end of the evening, Brenda Ireland, WCA Hospital Board of Directors Vice Chair, announced that the dinner event had raised $180,000! See CAPITAL CAMPAIGN on Page 5 WCA NewsLink, - January/Febraury 2011 A Message From Betsy T. Wright, President/CEO Dear Friends, During the holiday season, we are filled with the spirit of giving, the importance of family and friends, and a sense of healing, renewal and new opportunity. Our spirit of caring lives throughout the year in the healing touches, encouraging smiles and kind words from our physicians, employees, and volunteers— qualities that have become the hallmark of the spirit of WCA. WCA Hospital has been woven into the fabric of our community for 125 years, creating a culture of caring that reassures our patients that we are always here for them. From our humble beginnings to the present, we have never wavered from our mission of improving the health and well being of those we are so privileged to serve. To everyone, thank you for your spirit of kindness. Your dedication and support is truly appreciated. May these days be filled with joy, peace and hope for the New Year for you, your family and your friends. Happy Holidays, Congratulations to our Employees of the Month, Janice Odrzywolski, Kerrin Bloomquist, Maribel Vega, Pamela Paciorkowski, Jeffrey Armentrout, Sandra Dole and Julie Morton. 2 WCA NewsLink, - January/Febraury 2011 Appointments WCA Announces New Board Members WCA Names Bert Rappole, MD WCA is pleased to announce the appointments of two new members who join the hospital’s Board of Directors. The new board members are Anna M. Dibble, Director of Quality at Cummins Inc., and Lyndon Gritters, MD, board certified radiologist on staff at WCA. “We are delighted that Anna and Dr. Gritters have joined our hospital Board,” said Judy Burgett, WCA Hospital Board Chair. “Both individuals bring a wealth of valuable business and healthcare experience and we are confident they will make a substantial Anna M. Dibble contribution to the strategic direction of WCA Hospital.” “We are proud of our 125-year tradition of delivering the highest quality of care and welcome the leadership of our new board members who will be instrumental in shaping the future of WCA Hospital,” adds Betsy Wright, WCA President/CEO. Ms. Dibble holds two Master degrees. She received a Master of Business Administration from Gannon University, Erie, Pennsylvania, and a Master of Science in Manufacturing Management and Engineering from GMI Engineering and Management Institute, located in Flint, Michigan. She received her Lyndon Gritters, MD undergraduate degree from Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania. She is currently employed at Cummins Inc., located in Lakewood, New York, as the Director of Quality and has spent the last 19 years of her career working in various positions at Cummins - Jamestown Engine Plant. Anna resides in Lakewood, New York with her husband, Scott, and their two daughters, Alanna and Kylee. Lyndon Gritters, M.D., is triple boarded in Radiology, Nuclear Cardiology, and Nuclear Medicine. He received his medical degree from the University of Iowa College of Medicine, and was inducted into the AOA Honor Medical Society. Dr. Gritters trained in Internal Medicine and Nuclear Medicine at the University of Michigan Medical Center and in Diagnostic Radiology at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX. His office, Jamestown Radiologist, is located on East Fifth Street, Jamestown, New York. Dr. Gritters resides in Lakewood, New York, with his wife, Melanie, and has two grown sons, Andrew and Sean. Medical Student Education Director Photo Caption: Ashley Pence, third year medical student enrolled at LECOM – Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine & School of Pharmacy, spends a portion of her third year clinical rotation time with Tariq Khan, MD, board certified pediatrician on the medical staff at WCA Hospital, participating in all facets of pediatric patient care. Seated, Ashley observes pediatric patient, London Hamilton, alongside Bert W. Rappole, MD, Director of Medical Student Education at WCA Hospital (standing left); and Dr. Khan. Bert W. Rappole, MD, has been appointed Director of Medical Student Education at WCA Hospital. In his new role, Dr. Rappole will facilitate clinical rotations for students currently enrolled in their third and fourth year of medical school. This will allow future physicians an opportunity to participate in clinical education alongside practicing physicians on the medical staff at WCA Hospital. As Director, Dr. Rappole will facilitate the placement of each student to ensure the experience meets the guidelines of the affiliate institution. The Medical Education Program at WCA has rotations available in: family practice, internal medicine, general surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, emergency medicine, anesthesiology, urology, cardiology, nephrology, neurology, oncology, occupational health medicine, ophthalmology, pathology, pediatrics, psychiatry, and radiology. Dr. Rappole is also available to assist nurse practitioner and physician assistant students that have interest in a clinical rotation with physicians at WCA Hospital and in the Jamestown community. See RAPPOLE on Page 4 Visit Us On The Web . . . www.wcahospital.org | 3 WCA NewsLink, - January/Febraury 2011 FAST FACTS Lily’s Hope From Page 1 Voted Your Favorite Hospital! WCA Hospital was voted the #1 Favorite Hospital in Chautauqua County by regional consumers for a fourth consecutive year! Congratulations to everyone for providing awardwinning care and first class service to our patients. Fight Flu Season Cover your sneezes and wash your hands frequently with warm water Lily Olson, second from left, is joined by Richard Kimball, Sylvia and soap for 20 seconds. If you do not Stenander of Zonta; Betsy Wright, Judith Burgett, and Toni DeAngelo from have access to water, use an alcohol- WCA; and Lynn Jordan of Zonta; to cut the ribbon officially opening Lily’s Hope, a boutique for women diagnosed with cancer or any other based hand sanitizer. Stop germs, stay medical condition in need of a wig, cap, turban or scarf, free of charge. healthy. Adults of all ages should get a flu vaccine. Flu shots are still available “We understand the impact that major surgery, for WCA medical staff, employees, chemotherapy or radiation therapy treatments and volunteers by calling the Oc- can have on a patient’s physical and emotional cupational Health Office at 664-8165. We’re OPEN! The WCA Center For Orthopedics, Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation A new modern Center bringing together one team for 24/7 orthopedic care, sports medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech and hearing services located at 31 Sherman Street Building. Front door parking. To schedule an appointment, call 664-8400. Open House Coming in Early 2011! NEW HR Online System NEW online employment system replaces paper applications--making applying for a position easy for job seekers. To apply online, go to wcahospital.org, select Career tab, click Employment Opportunities. Honorable Mention! The WCA Hospital Chautauqua evCounty Witness Project¾an idence-based, culturally competent and faith-based breast and cervical cancer education and screening program -received Honorable Mention in the Hospital Association of New York State (HANYS) New York State’s Hospitals: Transforming Lives And Communities Economic and Community Benefit Report, September 2010 Edition. To receive a copy of report, call WCA Public Relations at 664-8614. 4 strength,” says Betsy. “Healing is more than just a medical journey; it’s an emotional one as well. Today, we partner in Zonta’s mission to advance the status of women by touching their lives at a time when they need our support. Together, we promote health and wellness by providing a special place that gives women renewed self-assurance and self-confidence during and after medical care.” Sylvia Stenander, Zonta’s Area Director, was on hand to discuss the effort. She said Lily’s Hope, located at the WCA Cancer Treatment Center, is “dedicated to helping women feel better during a difficult time in their lives.” Although, Sylvia said, Zonta Clubs work to advance women worldwide, she said they lacked a place with affordable wigs in Jamestown until WCA and Zonta teamed up with others in the community to offer the service. BOCES cosmetology students cleaned donated wigs, and local artist Vicky Reding painted sections of the Center and donated pictures to hang. Area stylists have agreed to style the wigs for free once a women selects an appropriate wig. “We extend our heart-felt gratitude to the women of Zonta,” said Betsy. To learn more about Lily’s Hope, or to schedule an appointment for a fitting, contact Toni DeAngelo, R.N., Community Health & Wellness Director at WCA, at 664-8677. Rappole From Page 3 Local high school students or college students with an interest in health science may also contact Dr. Rappole to request an observership experience. “We are very pleased that Dr. Rappole is serving in this important role,” said Betsy T. Wright, WCA President/CEO. “His knowledge and skills as a physician will prove invaluable in developing our program. As Director, he will further strengthen our Medical Education Program as we cultivate new traditions that enable our hospital to remain a progressive resource for our medical community.” For 37 years, Dr. Rappole practiced general and vascular surgery at the WCA Hospital. He was president of the WCA Hospital Medical Staff from 1992 to 1993 and served on numerous medical staff committees. Dr. Rappole also served as a member of the WCA Board of Directors from 1995 to 2000 and was named WCA Physician of the Year by his colleagues in 2005. Dr. Rappole was a founding member of the Jamestown Area Medical Associates. Currently, he is an active member of the Greater Jamestown AM Rotary Club and Allegany Regional Missions (ARM). Dr. Rappole and his wife, Mary, have participated in many medical trips to the Republic of Haiti. In April of 2010, Dr. Rappole returned to Haiti with a team to provide ongoing care to the Haitians and victims of the earthquake. For more information on the Medical Student Education Program at WCA, contact Dr. Rappole at 664-8154 or by e-mail, bert.rappole@wcahospital.org. If you have children, grandchildren, or acquaintances that may be interested in participating in this program, Dr. Rappole is eager to speak with you. “The goal of our program is to share skills and opportunities available at WCA Hospital with students who may consider returning to our area when their formal education is completed,” said Rappole. WCA NewsLink, - January/Febraury 2011 Capital Campaign From Page 1 “WCA would like to thank the many generous donors and table hosts who enabled this special event to be so successful,” said Betsy Wright, WCA President/CEO. “Our Emergency Department is the most important investment that we can make for our community. When Judy Burgett, WCA Board of Directors Chair, we look at the shares remarks with the guests during care that we are Athenaeum dinner event held at Chautauqua Institution. able to provide at WCA, over 75% of our patients begin their episode of care in our Emergency Department.” Featuring 28 private treatment triage rooms, WCA Hospital’s new 18,000 square foot Emergency Department will maintain and enhance the quality of care for which WCA Hospital is nationally recognized. It will meet the present day and the increasing future volume demands of the Chautauqua Region. This 21st-century Emergency Department will minimize patient treatment times, decrease throughput and admission times, improve efficiency and collaboration, and enhance physician recruitment efforts. With construction slated to begin in early 2011, WCA Hospital expects to gain valuable space and Mark and Tammy Nelson were among the invited guests privacy, and treated to a special dinner and campaign program held at the historic Athenaeum Hotel. overall improvement in patient experiences. To learn more about Sharing the Gift of Health Campaign for our new Emergency Department, visit www.wcahospital.org., click on Giving tab. In the spirit of our 125th Anniversary, the entire WCA Family extends our sincere thanks to all of our community supporters and donors for your commitment to our patients. Because of your dedication, our hospital is uniquely poised to serve our patients and their families for another 125 years and beyond. volved! In t e G n a C u How Yo WCA Hospital is accepting Sharing the Gift of Health campaign gifts and pledges payable through the end of 2013. To make a tax-deductible gift or pledge, please contact Karl Sisson, WCA Director of Development, at 664-8423 or karl.sisson@wcahospital.org. For more information, visit www.wcahospital.org Visit Us On The Web . . . www.wcahospital.org | 5 WCA NewsLink, - January/Febraury 2011 Building Collaborative Partnerships Announces Partnership with WCA Hospital Your Trusted Hospitalists WCA Welcomes New Hospitalist! WCA is continually growing, improving and changing to better meet the needs of patients and their families. One of WCA’s innovative approaches to healthcare is the WCA Hospitalist Program which gives patients admitted to the hospital immediate WCA Welcomes and easy access to Ohigbai Egwaikhide, MD trusted inpatient WCA Hospitalist care. From Left, Premier Anesthesia Group, Troy Prather, CRNA; Keith Webb, CRNA; Dr. Kevin Przybyla; Hospital-based Dr. Ghulam Joyo; Rebecca Farnsworth, CRNA; Dr. Mabel Crosby; Dr. John Chunga. (Absent from physicians, referred to as Hospitalists, provide photo, Mary Brooks, CRNA.) treatment and care to patients during the course of Premier Anesthesia announces it has established a new partnership to their hospital stay. WCA’s Hospitalists are highly manage anesthesia services at WCA Hospital. qualified in their area of expertise and function as Norb Hummel, Executive Vice President, Operations for Premier valuable partners with community physicians. Anesthesia, remarked on the WCA/Premier partnership. “We are enthusiastic “We work with the patient’s primary care about partnering with the medical staff, administration and employees of WCA. provider throughout the course of the patient’s We have a mutual goal of continuing to provide the excellent healthcare WCA hospital stay to ensure clear communication and has been offering to the people of Chautauqua County for 125 years, while continuity of care,” said Dr. Jonathan Blasius, raising the bar,” Hummel said. board certified in internal medicine and Medical “WCA has been a vital community asset for 125 years and we believe this Director for the hospital-based program. “We derelationship will continue to strengthen our ability to provide outstanding vote 100 percent of our time to the patient’s every care,” said Betsy T. Wright, WCA President/CEO. “We look forward to our need during their hospital stay to assure a smooth partnership with Premier Anesthesia who shares our mission and vision to and speedy recovery from beginning to end.” improve the health and well being of our patients with a continued commitment Ohigbai Egwaikhide, MD, board certified in to clinical excellence.” internal medicine, joins Dr. Blasius this year in Premier Anesthesia’s partnership with WCA began in September, 2010. treating patients admitted to WCA. Dr. EgwaiTogether, WCA and Premier are currently working to ensure Premier’s plan for khide received his medical degree from Medical the anesthesia department is in alignment with the hospital’s vision, mission College of Jagiellonian University and completed and goals. A Peri-Operative Task Force has been implemented to draft the his residency in combined internal medicine and plan which will set OR and Anesthesia Services goals for 2011 and outline pediatrics from Hurley Medical Center Michigan strategies and tactics to meet those goals. State University. “We are very pleased to welcome Premier Anesthesia to WCA,” said “We specialize in hospitalized patients, servMarlene Garone, M.D., WCA Hospital Vice President of Medical Affairs. ing as a comforting voice for you and your family “From our initial discussions, it was evident that Premier’s philosophy of the while you are in the hospital,” said Dr. Blasius. highest quality care delivery paired with quality customer service is in line To learn more about the WCA Hospital Hospiwith the goals of our programs.” For the complete press release, visit www. talist Program, contact WCA Public Relations at wcahospital.org/press releases. 664-8614. 6 WCA NewsLink, - January/Febraury 2011 Decisions/Choices/Options Certified Nurse Midwife Joins WCA In response to a growing interest in delivery options among expectant mothers, Debra Arndt, MS, Certified Nurse Midwife on staff at WCA, collaborates with board certified obstetricians/gynecologists at Lane’s Women’s Health Group, to offer women a Midwife approach to care through each stage of their pregnancy. Mothers interested in an additional approach to delivery Debra Arndt, MS, Certified Nurse Midwife at Lane Women’s Health Group, poses with now have the option to have parents, Teresa and Joshua, and Newborn, a Midwife oversee their pregMadilyn Gordon, whom Debra delivered at WCA Hospital. nancy and birthing process at WCA. A Midwife manages low-risk pregnancies with oversight from physicians to provide basic gynecological care. According to Nancy Allen, MD, board certified obstetrician/gynecologist on the medical staff at WCA, Debra Arndt adds a valuable dimension to the patient care experience at WCA. “A Midwife is well-trained to manage labor and delivery for mothers with low-risk pregnancies and is an important addition to the OB/GYN care we offer at WCA,” says Dr. Allen. “Midwives partner with patients and OB/GYNs to provide care and ultimately allow physicians to devote their time to patients with more complicated pregnancies. As a result, patients who desire more one-on-one time with the medical professional attending their deliveries can now have it.” “Debra’s role enables us to provide a full range of maternity care services which offers our expectant moms an additional choice for childbirth and enhances the options available to our patients,” said Betsy Wright, WCA President/CEO. “It also demonstrates our commitment to provide responsive, accessible and high quality health care across the Chautauqua Region.” Debra Arndt, who received national certification through the American Midwifery Certification Board and is licensed to practice midwifery by the New York State Office of the Professions, encourages input from expectant mothers in determining the parameters around their individual deliveries. “Midwives spend a lot of time with patients soliciting their input and debriefing them on the natural birthing methods we’re inclined to utilize,” says Debra Arndt. “My job is to provide women and their families with all the information needed to make the best birthing decision available to them.” To learn more about the Midwife model of care, contact Lane Women’s Health Group at (716) 484-9194. Cooperation & Collaboration Area Hospitals & Health Systems Sign Disaster Aid Agreement If a disaster should ever arise, WCA Hospital has the support of the regional hospitals – and vice-versa. Signed recently by more than 20 hospitals and health systems, a new Mutual Aid Agreement puts in writing a practice which has been in place for years. Western New York hospitals have announced an agreement to provide mutual aid in an emergency or disaster situation that overwhelms the resources of an individual or multiple hospitals. More than 20 hospitals and health systems in Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans and Wyoming counties have signed the voluntary agreement. The agreement defines specific guidelines for loaning and receiving medical and non-medical personnel, pharmaceuticals, supplies and equipment in a disaster. It also addresses assistance with hospital evacuation, including accepting transferred patients. “The hospitals all have a similar mission to provide high quality care and we have always worked collaboratively to assist each other in a disaster,” said Betsy T. Wright, WCA Hospital President/CEO. “What we are very pleased about is the new Mutual Aid Agreement has been signed by all the Western New York hospitals so that we have a formal process in place. If there is an urgent need for staff, equipment or supplies, we now have a process in place to share our resources.” The Western New York Healthcare Association, with the cooperation and collaboration of the Regional Resource Center at ECMC, facilitated the development of the Mutual Aid Agreement. John Bartimole, President of the Western New York Healthcare Association, called an integrated response plan “critically important” and congratulated the hospitals for taking a collaborative regional approach to emergency response planning. For the complete press release, visit www. wcahospital.org/press releases. Visit Us On The Web . . . www.wcahospital.org | 7 WCA NewsLink, - January/Febraury 2011 The Picture of High Performance WCA Now Offers Breast MRI A regional leader in cancer care, WCA takes the leadership role in the prevention and diagnosis of breast cancer by offering a comprehensive array of breast health services. Adding another tool for the diagnosis of breast cancer, WCA is pleased to offer Breast MRI Imaging and MRI-guided Breast Biopsy—a minimally invasive procedure in which a breast biopsy is guided by highly-detailed magnetic resonance imaging. Breast MRI Imaging, when used in conjunction with conventional mammography, provides valuable information for the detection and characterization of breast disease. “Our new technological capabilities extends the range of quality diagnostic services that WCA offers and broadens our commitment to providing our patients with access to the best possible care in this region,” said Betsy T. Wright, WCA Hospital President/CEO. Breast MRI is a safe, painless procedure that uses magnetic energy and radio waves to produce highly detailed images of the breasts. Lyndon Gritters, MD, board certified radiologist and Chair of the Department of Radiology at WCA explains that breast MRI imaging is not for every woman, and does not replace mammography, but as an adjunct tool, can be very useful. “If a woman has recently been diagnosed with breast cancer, for example, MRI can help her surgeon better establish tumor extent as well as uncover additional cancers either in the same or the opposite breast,” says Dr. Gritters. Although breast MRI is primarily used for surgical treatment planning in women who have had breast cancer previously diagnosed through either Stereotactic or ultrasound guided needle biopsy, it has other applications. For instance, certain women at high risk for breast cancer based on family history or genetic counseling often undergo breast MRI in addition to screening mammography. Combined with computer-aided detection technology, breast MRI produces highly-detailed images that are overall more sensitive than mammography alone for the detection of breast cancer in these high risk women. “Early detection combined with accurate diagnosis and treatment is essential in the fight against breast cancer,” said Dr. Gritters. “Breast MRI will enhance our ability to find otherwise undetectable cancers in certain patients. More accurate diagnosis means more accurate treatment.” To schedule Breast MRI, call 664-8MRI (8674). For more information on additional services offered at the Center For Imaging & Medical Arts at WCA, visit wcahospital.org. “Breast MRI is another example of our commitment to bringing the latest technology to WCA,” says Dr. Gritters. “For certain women, it can play a significant role in their cancer journey, and ultimately, help them secure a positive outcome.” 8 It’s About EXCELLENCE WCA Earns American College Of Radiology Accreditation From left, WCA ultrasound team: Kristi Constantino, RDMS, Ultrasound Technologist; Roxanne Miller, RT RDMS, Ultrasound Technologist; Elizabeth Clark, RT RDMS, Ultrasound Technologist; Sally Hetrick, RT RDMS, Ultrasound Technologist; Theresa Moore, RT RDMS RVT, Senior Ultrasound Technologist. WCA has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in ultrasound as the result of an extensive review by the American College of Radiology (ACR). Ultrasound imaging, also known as sonography, uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of internal body parts to help providers diagnose illness, injury, or other medical problems. The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. It is awarded only to facilities meeting ACR Practice Guidelines and Technical Standards, following a peer-review evaluation by boardcertified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. Image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures, and quality assurance program are assessed. “The ACR accreditation demonstrates our continued pledge to build the strongest medical community possible and recognizes the expertise of our entire ultrasound team who ensure that we deliver high quality care to our patients,” said Betsy Wright. “Accreditation by the American College of Radiology inspires a high level of confidence for our patients, referring physicians and managed care organizations, and assures them that only the highest quality of care is being provided at WCA.” To schedule an appointment for Ultrasound services at WCA, call 664-8448. For the complete press release, visit www. wcahospital.org/press releases. WCA NewsLink, - January/Febraury 2011 The GOLD SEAL OF APPROVALTM WCA Laboratory Earns Accreditations 3 WCA Hospital Clinical Laboratory team (above). Healthcare quality and safety says to our patients, our staff, and our community that we are committed to providing the best care. Our Clinical Laboratory team is a great example of being dedicated to safety and high quality standards as evidenced by the Laboratory’s three Accreditations this year including The Gold Seal of Approval™ from The Joint Commission. The WCA Hospital School of Medical Technology was also awarded accreditation; receiving a seven-year re-accreditation, the highest achievable certification from the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) for being in compliance with the Standards of Accredited Educational Program for the Medical Laboratory Scientist. Additionally, the Clinical Laboratory at WCA Hospital was granted re-accreditation by the American Association of Blood Banks (AABB) that set the highest standards for blood banks and transfusion services. AABB also recognized exceptional practices in the WCA Blood Bank for which they submitted a method to be reviewed for entry into their Commendable Practices Library. The accreditations were awarded to WCA Hospital after rigorous onsite evaluations by highly trained, certified experts who established that the level of medical, technical and administrative performance within the hospital’s Clinical Laboratory met or exceeded their patient quality and safety standards. During the accreditation processes, every aspect of the laboratory’s daily operations and its impact on patient quality and safety was assessed and reviewed. “Our Clinical Laboratory has demonstrated its expertise and commitment to quality patient care by meeting or exceeding a wide set of stringent criteria,” said Betsy Wright. “Accreditations are the result of hard work on an ongoing basis and are the cornerstone of quality improvement and patient safety initiatives enabling WCA to consistently assess and improve the services we provide to our patients.” In congratulating WCA Hospital for its outstanding efforts, Jennifer Rhamy, M.B.A., M.S., M.T. (ASCP) SBB, HP, Executive Director, Laboratory Accreditation Program, The Joint Commission said WCA Hospital has demonstrated its commitment to the highest level of care for its patients. “Accreditation is a voluntary process and I commend WCA for successfully undertaking this challenge to evaluate its standard of care and instill confidence in the community it serves,” said Rhamy. The AABB Accreditation is a voluntary process. The Accreditation Program assists blood banks, transfusion services, cellular therapy facilitation, relationship testing laboratories, immunohematology reference laboratories and perioperative services in determining whether methods, procedures, personnel knowledge, equipment and the physical plant meet established requirements. The School of Medical Technology received 7-year accreditation from the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS), conforming to the standards established by NAACLS which is sponsored by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists and the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (ASCLS). “These achievements are only the minimum standards of performance in our eyes,” said William A. Geary, MD, Pathologist, Medical Director of the WCA Laboratory. “The specific performance in serving patients’ and physicians’ needs is a daily measure of value that remains our focus.” For the complete press release, visit www.wcahospital.org/press releases. Visit Us On The Web . . . www.wcahospital.org | 9 WCA NewsLink, - January/Febraury 2011 W.C.A. Foundation Spotlight Foundation Elects New Board Members The W.C.A. Foundation, Inc., board of directors recently elected three new members; Patricia Phillips, Brian D. Meagher, M.D., and Paul V. Webb III, Esq. Mrs. Phillips has served as the office manager for her family business for the past 25 years. Currently, she serves on the Board of Directors for the Jamestown Community ColPhoto Caption: from left, W.C.A. Foundation Board of Directors, newly elected board of director members, Brian D. Meagher, M.D., Patricia Phillips, lege Foundation, the JamesPaul V. Webb III, Esq. town Community College Alumni Association, and the Jamestown Concert Association. She has also been an active volunteer for the WCA Auxiliary, the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, Creche, Inc., and the Reg Lenna Arts in Education program. “I am honored to have the opportunity to support WCA Hospital in this new capacity,” stated Mrs. Phillips. Dr. Meagher graduated from Cornell University and Georgetown Medical School. He has served as a board certified radiologist on staff at WCA Hospital for the past seven years and is the current President of the Chautauqua County Medical Society. Dr. Meagher has two college-age sons and enjoys skiing. He explains, “I look forward to being an active part of the W.C.A, Foundation to support the future of WCA Hospital, an indispensable community asset.” Paul V. Webb III, a West Point graduate, served five years with the Field Artillery as a Captain. He graduated from Penn State Dickinson School of Law and works with the law firm of Erickson Webb Scolton and Hajdu in Lakewood. “We are so fortunate to have outstanding healthcare available right here in our community at WCA Hospital,” explains Mr. Webb. “I am eager to play a part in preserving and enhancing that care for future generations.” For complete press release, visit www. wcahospital.org/press releases. W.C.A. Foundation Awards Messina Scholarship Shannon Fitzgerald 10 The W.C.A. Foundation, Inc., recently announced the 2010 Mary Lou Messina Scholarship award recipient, Shannon Fitzgerald, WCA Hospital Nurses Aide on the hospital’s 3B Nursing Unit. Ms. Fitzgerald is currently enrolled in Gannon University’s Baccalaureate Nursing curriculum program. The scholarship is awarded in Memory of Mary Lou Messina who was an R.N. at WCA Hospital from 1979 – 2004. She worked in the Special Care Unit, Recovery Room, Pain Management, and Ambulatory Surgery Center. The scholarship funds are applied toward the cost of books for a course(s) leading to a degree in Nursing. To make a gift to the Mary Lou Messina Scholarship Fund, call 664-5461. W.C.A. Foundation Announces Annual Donation Days In late 2010, the W.C.A. Foundation announced Donation Days, the annual letter campaign to ask our community to support WCA Hospital through gifts to the W.C.A. Foundation. “At this time of the year, we are all grateful for so many things: our families, our friends, a warm house, enough food to eat and our health,” says Mary J. Taylor, Chair of the 2010 Donation Days appeal. “We are also thankful for and fortunate to have WCA Hospital here in Jamestown to provide our community with quality health care.” Donation Days enables you to make an undesignated gift or designate your gift for a specific purpose, if you choose. For example, if you, or someone you know, has been served by Starflight or a service provided by WCA Hospital such as dialysis, cancer treatment, or the emergency department, you have the opportunity to designate your donation for any one (such as the Betty Sheldon Starflight Fund or LaVerne M. Meyers Memorial Fund) or more of those specific funds. The wonderful part of the W.C.A. Foundation is that you can decide if you want your donation to be utilized to meet a current need or to grow endowment. If you decide to support endowment, your gift would be invested and remain in perpetuity for the future of WCA Hospital. The assets of the W.C.A. Foundation remain forever, while the interest and growth earned are granted to WCA Hospital. Over the last five years, while maintaining over $10,000,000 in assets, the W.C.A. Foundation has granted over $2,500,000 to WCA Hospital and Starflight. This has been possible because of the generosity of donors, as well as the prudent investment and management of Foundation assets. The W.C.A. Foundation’s continued success in assisting the WCA Hospital today and into the future is a joint effort between the community and the foundation. To make your tax-deductible donation today, or to learn how to start your own named fund, please call 664-5461 or write to PO Box 214, Jamestown, NY 14702. For the complete press release, visit www.wcahospital.org/press releases. WCA NewsLink, - January/Febraury 2011 THE PEOPLE YOU KNOW . . . THE PROFESSIONALS YOU TRUST Behind Every Great Hospital Are The People Who Make It Special! Congratulations Janice Odrzywolski Lt. to Rt.: Pamela Meurer, JANICE, Betsy Wright Janice Odrzywolski, R.N., on our 3B nursing unit, fits perfectly into all the requirements of a compassionate, highlyskilled, caring nurse and tremendous qualities to be selected as July’s HCAHPS Employee of the Month. Taken from the family member’s testimonial of Janice’s care, the family member stated, “My stepmother spent the last few hours of her life at WCA on 3B. Janice arrived at her room, combed her hair gently and turned my stepmother so she could be more comfortable during the last moments of her life. It was the most touching, caring thing I have ever witnessed.” Her Supervisor echoed the sentiments of the family member by saying, “I have known Jan for many years and she truly goes above and beyond in caring for our patients,” said Pam Meurer, R.N., 3B Nurse Manager. “She is very respectful and provides the care, comfort and trust our patients and families deserve. She consistently delivers outstanding care and displays the qualities of service excellence. We are privileged to have Jan serving our patients.” Thank you, Janice, for leading by example. You have been selected by our patients’ families and your staff and we agree with their choice! Congratulations Kerrin Bloomquist Lt. to Rt.: Mary Bosek, KERRIN, Betsy Wright The mission of a social worker is rooted in a set of core values, embraced by social workers everywhere, that include service, dignity and worth of a person, importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence. Our August HCAHPS Employee of the Month, Kerrin Bloomquist, Case Manager, exemplifies these core values, making her patients and families her number one priority. “Kerrin utilizes her skills and knowledge in a compassionate way,” said Mary Bosek, Director of Case Management at WCA. “She possesses excellent interpersonal, communication and listening skills and is highly sensitive to the needs of our patients and their family members.” One family member commented in a letter of thanks to WCA, “Kerrin made a difficult transition easy for our family by providing information and resources that helped us to make important decisions regarding his care during a difficult time,” he said. “Her kindness and genuine caring attitude is greatly appreciated.” We extend our appreciation and thanks to Kerrin for demonstrating exemplary service and an unwavering commitment to her profession! Visit Us On The Web . . . www.wcahospital.org | 11 WCA NewsLink, - January/Febraury 2011 THE PEOPLE YOU KNOW . . . THE PROFESSIONALS YOU TRUST Behind Every Great Hospital Are The People Who Make It Special! Congratulations Maribel Vega & Pamela Paciorkowski Congratulations Jeffrey Armentrout Lt. to Rt.: Pam Meurer, MARIBEL, PAMELA, Christine Reynolds, Larry Senn. Lt. to Rt.: Ann Downing, JEFFREY, Emelia Lindquist We cannot thank one without thanking the other. That is why it was our pleasure to announce Maribel Vega and Pamela Paciorkowski, Environmental Services Attendants, our September HCAHPS Employees of the Month. “We achieved our highest HCAHPS score ever in the cleanliness of our unit and it is all because of these two special people,” said Pam Meurer, R.N., 3B Nurse Manager. “They do a wonderful job together maintaining our unit and keeping it spick-and-span clean. They are constantly cleaning, scrubbing and polishing. Everything sparkles and even the patients take note of our spotless environment!” Working collaboratively, Maribel and Pamela are dedicated employees, willing to work until the job is completed, according to fellow co-workers. “If anyone deserves recognition, it is these two hard working employees,” remarked a co-worker. “Not only are Maribel and Pamela good at what they do, they are courteous and friendly to everyone.” Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision. Maribel and Pamela reflect the spirit of teamwork and we extend our appreciation to a terrific team that truly cares about our patients’ environment! 12 For the past 17 years, Jeffrey Armentrout, Orderly, has tended to the needs of our patients with a comforting smile and helpful attitude that has been recognized by patients and co-workers many times during his tenure. We salute Jeff as our October HCAHPS Employee of the Month for the job he does with various departments throughout the hospital, exceeding staff and patient expectations on a regular basis. “We couldn’t have done our job without Jeff,” stated the nurses in the Ambulatory Surgery Center. “He assisted us with a very combative patient, staying with us until the patient was calm and comfortable.” Fellow workers also praised Jeff for the way he assists staff and transports patients to and from the various areas of the hospital. Staff especially pointed out that Jeff really cares about his patients by displaying courtesy, respect, empathy, and dignity to others. Thank your Jeff for your efforts on behalf of our patients and staff. Congratulations for being recognized by your peers! WCA NewsLink, - January/Febraury 2011 Congratulations Sandra Dole Congratulations Julie Morton Lt. to Rt.: Lorraine Diggs, SANDRA, Betsy Wright Lt. to Rt.: Emelia Lindquist, JULIE, Betsy Wright Sandra Dole, Senior Staff Nurse in our Emergency Department, was selected our November HCAHPS/Employee of the Month, for her caring nature and concern for our patients. Nominations on Sandy’s behalf reflected upon her quiet, calming influence on others. “She is really responsive to the needs of our patients,” a family noted. “When Sandy noticed that our son was having an allergic reaction in the waiting room, she immediately stopped what she was doing, rushed him to an exam room, and followed-up with his care right away.” “Sandy does a superb job and always follows through,” said Lorraine Diggs, R.N., WCA Director of Nursing. “She makes sure everything runs smoothly and treats our patients, families, and staff with the utmost respect and courtesy.” A dedicated member of the WCA Family for over 34 years, Sandy has earned the respect from the patients and families she serves and in return, has shown them the greatest respect as well. Thank you, Sandy, for listening to the concerns of our patients and delivering the highly-skilled emergency nursing care that gets our patients back on the road to recovery. A valued employee for 11 years, Julie Morton, R.N. in our Emergency Department and December’s HCAHPS/Employee of the Month, was recognized for her extraordinary nursing skills and helpful attitude. “Julie has been a stellar employee who not only does a terrific job in the Emergency Department, but performs a remarkable job as a Flight Nurse for Starflight as well,” said Emelia Lindquist, R.N., Emergency Department Nurse Manager. “She continually goes above and beyond regarding patient care and is extremely appreciated. We are proud to have Julie on our team.” Demonstrating HCAHPS qualities, Julie was recognized for her ability to respond to a family member’s need to understand the condition of her daughter. “When my daughter was a patient in the Emergency Department, Julie was entirely helpful in keeping me informed of my daughter’s serious condition.” In celebration of all you do and for setting a great example for others to follow, we recognize you with this special honor. Thank you, Julie! Visit Us On The Web . . . www.wcahospital.org | 13 WCA NewsLink, - January/Febraury 2011 Photo Spotlight ~WCA Image Gallery re presents a G. Komen for the Cu rk Affiliate of Susan Yo w Ne rn get ste We e Th ch out to women to $47,329 grant to rea . ram og mm their ma The WCA Family and community supporters tied pink ribbons around hospital trees at WCA & JMHC to honor breast cancer survivors or in memory of loved ones during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. With a special event entitled, “Hitting The Bricks”, WCA celebrated the history of its historic South Building and the future of the hospital with the impending construction of our new Emergency Department. LINKS Cha ri auction banq ty Pro-Am golf tourna ment, golf uet donated scramble, $74,689. mammogra 54 toward purchase of and silent phy imagin a new digi g system. tal Lake Shore Savings Bank awarded a $50,000 gift to WCA. This gift supports Sharing the Gift of Health: The Capital Campaign for our Emergency Department. ts gift suppor CA. This r our 0 gift to W fo n 00 ig 0, pa $8 a Capital Cam k presents ealth: The M&T Ban t. e Gift of H Departmen y nc Sharing th ge er Em 14 The Cummins’ Women’s Affinity Council presented a $3,000 donation to WCA to be used toward the purchase of a new digital mammography imaging system. WCA NewsLink, - January/Febraury 2011 Photo Spotlight ~WCA Image Gallery ebration in cel n Jamestown Parade in the 2010 Downtow WCA Hospital Float Anniversary! th 125 tal spi Ho A of WC The Jamestown Noon Rotary pledges $15,000 to Sharing the Gift of Health: The Capital Campaign for our Emergency Department. Brigetta Overcash accepted $2,085.00 from Angelo Pollino, proceeds from the “Angels Among Us” benefit. The gift, along with individual gifts, creates the Judy Pollino Memorial Cancer Care Fund with the W.C.A. Foundation, Inc. PNC Financial Services’ charitable arm, the PNC Foundation, awarded a $10,000 grant to WCA Hospital to support WCA’s Sharing the Gift of Health: The Capital Campaign for our Emergency Department. Moon Brook Charity Golf Classic donated $2,500 to support WCA’s Sharing the Gift of Health: The Capital Campaign for our Emergency Department. Local b usi campaig ness leaders Ja mes Sm n chair D ith r. L business leaders to illian Vitanza N and Hans Aue r, ey, invit 500 indiv join the e area pro along with “C id fessional campaig uals financially ommittee of 500 s an ”, n for WC committe A’s new ed to the a dedicated grou d Emergen p su cc es s cy Depar of the ca of tment. pital from ,000 grant rson received $1 e Karl Pete l Care Unit th ia ec om fr Sp n l ta tio WCA Hospi n Community Founda or openers. a Regio matic do Chautauqu rchase auto Fund to pu To everyone, Thank you! Visit Us On The Web . . . www.wcahospital.org | 15 Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage Paid Jamestown, NY Permit No. 601 P O Box 840 Jamestown, NY 14702-0840 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED January WCA Health Minute Health Topic: The Breast MRI Advantage Time Warner Cable, Channel 8 Aired every Monday during news broadcasts at 7 p.m. & 10 p.m. January 14 January 28 Healthcare Career Fair WCA Hospital Auditorium, 8:30 a.m. - 11 a.m. WCA is hosting a Career Fair sponsored by Chautauqua Works in partnership with the Chautauqua County Health Network You’re Just The Right Type! Please Donate! Community Blood Bank Bloodmobile Drive WCA Hospital Auditorium, Friday, Noon - 5 p.m., Walk-ins Welcome. Every donation stays in our Community to serve our patients WCA Health Minute Health Topic: Your Health, Your Heart, Your Hospital Time Warner Cable, Channel 8 Aired every Monday during news broadcasts at 7 p.m. & 10 p.m. February February 22 Community Blood Bank Bloodmobile Drive WCA Hospital Auditorium, Tuesday, 7 a.m. - Noon Walk-ins Welcome. Please give the gift of life. Send Your Well Wishes Online! Send a patient greeting to a friend or loved one hospitalized at WCA Hospital right from the convenience and comfort of your home! Visit www.wcahospital.org and check out our “new” e-Greeting Card Service online. It’s free & easy! 16 For questions, comments, story ideas, or additional copies of publication, contact Linda Johnson, Managing Editor, at 664-8614.