/home/rss/news News RSS Feed en-us Fri, 05 Sep 2008 04:50:33 PDT Fri, 05 Sep 2008 04:50:33 PDT /home/news/49 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT:Todd Kelley (253) 403-1716 “The All-Star Celebrity Weekend with Nick Lachey” is coming September 21 & 22, 2008 and will benefit the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Tacoma General Hospital and the Mary Bridge Parenting Partnership. Mr. Lachey will host a weekend of fun-filled events that include a celebrity softball game, a dinner and live auction and a Celebrity Golf Classic that will bring together many familiar celebrities from television, motion pictures and sports. In 2006, its inaugural year, the event raised over $630,000 for Tacoma General’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and for the Parenting Partnership Program offered through Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital, making it the most successful first-time fundraising event in South Sound history. In 2007, more than $750,000 was raised. The Events Sunday, September 21, 10:30 a.m.Celebrity Softball GameCheney StadiumHome of the Tacoma Rainiers Windermere Professional Partners sponsors the second annual celebrity softball game between celebrities and the local media. The celebrity team will be led by Nick Lachey and will bring together television and film stars, while the media team will unite local sports and media personalities. Tickets are available online at www.tacomacelebrityweekend.org or by calling the Tacoma Rainiers ticket office at (253) 752-7700. Tickets may also be purchased at Windermere Professional Partners offices in Tacoma. Tickets are $15 for general admission or $40 for Reserved Box Seats. Box Seats include reserved seating, food & beverage, reserved parking and a souvenir. Gates open at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, September 21, 5 p.m.Dinner and Live AuctionGreater Tacoma Convention & Trade Center The celebrities will turn out for a fun-filled dinner and auction with auction items that include luxury vacation packages with golf and spa amenities, intimate weekend getaways, magnums of select Washington wines and A-list sports memorabilia. The evening will also include jazz music by the Kareem Kandi trio. Tickets are $200 per person or $2,000 for a table of 10. Monday, September 22Celebrity Golf ClassicTacoma Country and Golf Club10 a.m. Tee Time This sold out event will bring together the celebrities for a round of golf at the Tacoma Country & Golf Club, the oldest private golf club west of the Mississippi. (Advance reservations for 2009 are available by calling 253-403-1522.) The Cause Tacoma General Hospital has the South Sound\'s only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for newborns, providing the highest level of care possible for infants. This year’s event will raise funds to purchase CosyCot with NeoPuff™ infant resuscitators, a specialized infant bed that allows doctors and nurses to set a precise pressure to keep a newborn’s lungs optimally expanded with the correct amount of volume and oxygen. Lung and respiratory development are critical in the first few hours and days for an infant born prematurely. Past All-Star Celebrity events have enabled staff to purchase a variety of technologically advanced equipment for the NICU, including 20 Giraffe OmniBeds™. Each OmniBed serves a dual function that traditionally required changing the infant between an incubator and radiant warmer. OmniBeds reduce stress on the infant and allows better access by doctors, nurses and parents. The Beneficiary The Tacoma General NICU serves more than 1,500 premature and critically ill newborns annually and is the neonatal referral center for all of southwest Washington. Additionally, Tacoma General is nationally accredited in neonatal transport services and provides care and transportation for over 300 premature infants annually. Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital & Health Center Parenting Partnership provides education, training and therapeutic support through consistent home visits from NICU nurses and professional family support workers and through facilitated group sessions with other NICU families. Staff and parents partner to build a strong, support system that protects and nurtures the child, and fosters good patterns of child care. The Parenting Partnership helps families access appropriate medical care to promote growth and development for each child. For more information on the events and the cause, go to www.tacomacelebrityweekend.org. EDITOR’S NOTE: Stars scheduled to appear are listed on the next page of this release. ### Tacoma General Hospital and Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital & Health Center are part of MultiCare Health System. MultiCare is a leading-edge, integrated health organization made up of four hospitals, numerous primary care and urgent care clinics, multi-specialty centers, Hospice and Home Health services, and many other services. A not-for-profit organization based in Tacoma, Washington since 1882, MultiCare has grown over the years in response to community needs. Today we are the area\'s largest provider of health care services, serving patients at 93 locations in Pierce, South King, Kitsap and Thurston counties. 2008 Celebrities Slated to Appear* · Nick Lachey, solo artist; #1 on the Billboard Pop 100 and quadruple platinum singer with 98 Degrees and Motown record label, plus Grammy nominee for Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals; MTV’s Newlyweds: Nick & Jessica; SoulO; MTV’s Nick Lachey: What\'s Left Of Me; NBC’s reality show, Clash of the Choirs; host of ABC’s High School Musical: Get in the Picture; and co-owner of the Tacoma Rainiers · Aaron Artman, President, Tacoma Rainiers Baseball Club · Aimee Wright, contestant, America’s Next Top Model · Alonzo Mitz, defensive end, Seattle Seahawks · Bill Krueger, pitcher, Seattle Mariners, senior baseball analyst for Fox Sports Northwest · Bob Gross, forward, and 1977 NBA Champion with the Portland Trailblazers · Brad Goode, anchor, KING 5 TV · Jim Nettles, outfielder, Minnesota Twins, Detroit Tigers, Kansas City Royals and Oakland A’s · Chris Daniels, reporter, King 5 TV · Cindy Morgan, actress, Caddyshack, Tron and Falcon Crest · Chris Egan, King 5 TV sports anchor and reporter · Cris Judd, choreographer; lead dancer for Michael Jackson’s Dangerous and History tours, Red Sky Picture’s Goyband (2008 release) · Dave “The Groz” Grosby, sports radio personality · Dave Henderson, outfielder, Seattle Mariners, Boston Red Sox, and 1989 World Champion Oakland A’s · Frank Burgess, 1961 NCAA scoring champion, two-time collegiate All-American, Gonzaga University alumni · Jeff Nelson, four-time World Series champion with the NY Yankees · Jesse Jones, reporter, KING 5 TV · Kasey Keller, goalkeeper, Seattle Sounders FC, and four time World Cup participant · Kirby Schlegel, Co-founder and Chairman of Schlegel Sports · Lori Matsuakawa, anchor, KING 5 TV · John Curley, host, KING 5 TV’s Evening Magazine · Michael Jackson, linebacker, Seattle Seahawks · Nesby Glasgow, safety, Seattle Seahawks · Norm Johnson, placekicker, Seattle Seahawks and Super Bowl XXX Champion with the Pittsburgh Steelers · Otis Sistrunk, defensive lineman and Super Bowl XI champion with the Oakland Raiders · Sonny Sixkiller, quarterback and Hall of Famer for University of Washington Huskies, and analyst for FSN Northwest · Randall Morris, running back, Seattle Seahawks · Sarah Larson, model with Nous Model Management Los Angeles, 2008 People Magazine 100 Most Beautiful People, recently signed as the face of Christian Audigier Dresses and a winner of Fear Factor · Stacy Fuson, model and actress, The Good Humor Man, Confessions of a Dangerous Mind, Shallow Hal and American Pie · Tom Gorman, pitcher, NY Mets, Montreal Expos, Philadelphia Phillies, San Diego Padres · Vanessa Minnillo, actress, Disaster Movie (2008), Redefining Love (2009), Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer, hostess, MTV’s Prom Date, and Maxim’s Hot 100 list 2006 · Yuji Okumoto, actor, Karate Kid 2, Pearl Harbor, True Believer, Better Off Dead, SPIKE TV’s Mask of the Ninja, and the Disney Channel’s Johnny Tsunami and Johnny Kapahala. * please note that this list is subject to change without notice /home/news/48 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT:Todd Kelley (253) 403-1716 James Ruf, MD, a board certified orthopedic surgeon, has recently joined MultiCare Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Center at the Covington MultiCare Clinic. Dr. Ruf received his undergraduate degree from Purdue University in Indiana, and his medical degree from Creighton University in Nebraska. He completed both his general surgery internship and his residency training in Orthopedic Surgery at the University of Michigan. He has special expertise in total and partial joint replacement, joint arthroscopy and the surgical treatment of fractures. Dr. Ruf’s patients are connected to the full resources of MultiCare Health System, one of the few health care organizations in the nation to offer a comprehensive electronic health record system. With MultiCare Connect, patients no longer need to wait for paper charts to transfer from one location to another. Patients will also experience the convenience and consistency of having the same health information available each time they visit a health care provider within the MultiCare system. MultiCare Connect is protected by sophisticated safety features, allowing access only by the patient and their provider. To contact Dr. Ruf, call MultiCare Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Center at (253) 372-7121. The Covington MultiCare Clinic is located at 17700 272nd Street. ### MultiCare is a leading-edge, integrated health organization made up of four hospitals, numerous primary care and urgent care clinics, multi-specialty centers, Hospice and Home Health services, and many other services. A not-for-profit organization based in Tacoma, Washington since 1882, MultiCare has grown over the years in response to community needs. Today we are the area\'s largest provider of health care services, serving patients at 93 locations in Pierce, South King, Kitsap and Thurston counties. /home/news/47 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACTS:FOR RITE AID:Cheryl Slavinsky(717) 731-6566MULTICARE:Todd Kelley(253) 403-1716(TACOMA) –August 15 and 16, MultiCare Health System and Rite Aid Corporation will host the grand opening of MultiCare Express Clinics inside two area Rite Aid stores. MultiCare Express Clinics are located in the Rite Aid stores in Lakewood at 5700 100th St. SW and in Tacoma at 7041 Pacific Ave. The MultiCare Express Clinics in Lakewood and Tacoma offer convenient, walk-in care with minimal wait times at affordable prices. Certified nurse practitioners provide patients with wellness services and quality care for common illnesses such as strep throat, ear aches, flu, bladder infections, bronchitis and allergies. The MultiCare Express clinics will also have laboratory tests, immunizations and health screenings available. Clinic hours are 9 am to 8 pm Monday through Friday and 10 am to 6 pm Saturday and Sunday. MultiCare Express Clinics are part of MultiCare Health System, which is one of the few health systems in the nation to offer a comprehensive, secure electronic health record system. With this system, called MultiCare Connect, patients experience the convenience of having the same, computerized health information available each time they visit a health care provider within the MultiCare system, including the MultiCare Express Clinics. MultiCare Express Clinics also have the ability to provide treatment information to the patient’s primary care provider, with the patient’s permission. This allows a physician to know what type of care their patient is receiving, enabling them to stay better connected with their patients. Patients who need additional services can access the physicians, clinics and hospitals of the MultiCare Health System, the largest health system in the south Puget Sound region. “The MultiCare Express Clinics are an example of our dedication to enhancing the health of the communities we serve and to uphold our mission of providing quality patient care in the region,” said Andrew Baron, MD, Primary Care Medical Director for the MultiCare Medical Group. “These clinics make that quality care more convenient and accessible where it is needed the most.” “Our partnership with MultiCare Health System fits in well with our strategic vision to be the destination for health and wellness services,” said Mark de Bruin, Rite Aid Executive Vice President of Pharmacy. “The MultiCare Express clinics will provide the same quality of healthcare patients would expect from any MultiCare Health System provider.” # # # About MultiCare MultiCare is a leading-edge, integrated health organization made up of four hospitals, primary care, urgent care clinics, multispecialty centers and Home Health, and many other services. A not-for-profit organization based in Tacoma, Washington since 1882, MultiCare has grown over the years in response to community needs. Today, MultiCare is the area\'s largest provider of health care services, serving patients at 93 locations in Pierce, South King, Kitsap and Thurston counties. Information about MultiCare is available through the company’s website at http://www.multicare.org. About Rite Aid Rite Aid Corporation (NYSE: RAD) is one of the nation’s leading drugstore chains with approximately 5,000 stores in 31 states and the District of Columbia with fiscal 2008 annual sales of more than $24.3 billion. Information about Rite Aid, including corporate background and press releases, is available through the company’s website at http://www.riteaid.com. MultiCare Express ClinicsGrand OpeningLakewood-Friday, August 15Tacoma-Saturday, August 1610 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free espresso drinks for adults Free Italian sodas for the kids Tacoma Rainiers mascot, “Rhubarb,” 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Free family health kits Coupons for one free visit to any Pierce County YMCA Enter to win a three-month family membership to a Pierce County YMCA. /home/news/46 Click here to view the story. http://www.komonews.com/home/video/25888769.html?video=pop&t=a /home/news/44 PRESS RELEASEFor Immediate ReleaseWednesday, July 25th, 2008Contact: Jennifer AalgaardPhone: 253.219.1715Email: jennifer.aalgaard@goodsamhealth.org PUYALLUP, WA- Physicians and staff at MultiCare\'s Good Samaritan Hospital are pleased to announce Mary Bridge Pediatric Care at Good Samaritan, a partnership between Good Samaritan Hospital and Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital & Health Center. Through this partnership, children and their parents will be connected to the area’s most trusted children’s hospital with enhanced access to quality pediatric care in the greater Puyallup and East Pierce County community. Beginning in September, the newly expanded pediatric unit at Good Samaritan Hospital will benefit from having pediatric hospitalists on staff. The Mary Bridge Inpatient Pediatric Service will provide physician coverage for the Good Samaritan pediatric department, the special care nursery, and be available for consultation. The Mary Bridge team brings the philosophies and strengths of pediatric expertise and services to Good Samaritan. This partnership will make it possible for more children to receive inpatient pediatric care closer to home while keeping connected to their local pediatricians and providers every step of the way. “This is a very exciting time to be a part of MultiCare Health System, as we work to ensure the highest quality care for every member of our community!” says Ronn Goodnough, RN, Manager of Inpatient Pediatrics at Good Samaritan Hospital. “The new unit will have a family-centered atmosphere, featuring a family area, playroom and computer access.” Mary Bridge pediatricians staffing this program function as an extension of a child’s primary care provider, offering on-site personalized care to hospitalized children. They also serve children who do not have a pediatrician available for their hospital stay. This service is offered to all patients as well as referring community providers, regardless of their hospital privileges. Our collaborative program keeps the primary care provider updated throughout a child’s inpatient treatment. This is especially beneficial for providers in outlying communities or those not able to leave their busy office practice to make hospital rounds. Upon discharge from the hospital, a child is returned to the care of their pediatrician along with a discharge summary and follow-up phone call from the hospitalists. This pediatric hospitalist program mirrors the established program at Mary Bridge in Tacoma and the partnership formed with Providence St. Peter Hospital, Olympia, in 2007. /home/news/45 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT: Todd Kelley (253) 403-1716 (TACOMA) – Recent MultiCare television, radio and print advertising campaigns have received national recognition for creativity and excellence. MultiCare won several Aster Awards, which recognize excellence in health care marketing, including two gold medals. Gold medals were received for 2007 Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital transit and newspaper series advertising. MultiCare also won silver and bronze Aster awards for 2007 Gig Harbor MultiCare Medical Park print and television advertising. The television ad produced for the Gig Harbor MultiCare Medical Park also won a bronze medal at the 29th annual Telly Awards, which honors local regional and cable television advertising. Other awards include: The 25th Annual Healthcare Advertising Awards: Silver: \"Radio Advertising/Single Spot\" for the Gig Harbor Medical Park Grand Opening; Bronze: \"Newspaper Advertising/Series\" for the Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital ad series that included \"Tadpoles, \"Mudpies,\" and \"Cannonballs\" ads; Merit: \"Newspaper Advertising/Insert\" for the Gig Harbor Medical Park Grand Opening; Merit: \"Radio Advertising/Series\" for the Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital \"Tadpoles,\" \"Mudpies,\" and \"Cannonballs.\" Summit International Awards Bronze: MultiCare Gig Harbor Medical Park television Bronze: Community Benefit Report in the \"Annual Report\" category Bronze: Print Advertising, Neurology ### MultiCare is a leading-edge, integrated health organization made up of four hospitals, numerous primary care and urgent care clinics, multi-specialty centers, Hospice and Home Health services, and many other services. A not-for-profit organization based in Tacoma, Washington since 1882, MultiCare has grown over the years in response to community needs. Today we are the area\'s largest provider of health care services, serving patients at 93 locations in Pierce, South King, Kitsap and Thurston counties. /home/news/43 MultiCare Express connects you to a new kind of health care convenience. Now you can walk in to your local Rite Aid and be seen by a MultiCare Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) for all kinds of medical care, as well as sports physicals, certain immunizations and laboratory tests.Then fill a prescription and pick up other medications or medical supplies you need, all with a single trip. Most visits are $59 and covered by most insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid.Get more information at www.multicareexpress.org. /home/news/42 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT:Todd Kelley (253) 403-1716 (TACOMA) –MultiCare Health System Chief Operating Officer George J. Brown, MD, has announced he will leave MultiCare to become the President & CEO of Legacy Health System in Portland, Ore. Dr. Brown will leave MultiCare by the end of July. Dr. Brown joined MultiCare in 1998 as Vice President of Acute Care Services & Facilities, overseeing all hospital operations of Tacoma General Hospital, Allenmore Hospital and Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital. In 2005, Dr. Brown was promoted Chief Operating Officer, overseeing clinical operations across MultiCare Health System. Before coming to MultiCare, he served as Commanding General of Madigan Army Medical Center, lead agent for Region 11 of the U.S. Army, and Commander of the Army Western Regional Medical Command at Fort Lewis. He retired from active military service in February 1999. During his tenure at MultiCare, Dr. Brown was actively involved in the effort to restore Level II adult trauma care to Tacoma in 2000. Dr. Brown also led projects that brought new operating rooms to Tacoma General and Mary Bridge in 2004 and helped establish Tacoma General as the first hospital in the South Sound to offer robotic-assisted surgery for prostate and gynecological procedures. And, in 2005, the newly expanded Mary Bridge Children’s Health Center opened. In 2007, MultiCare’s electronic health record system was expanded from the outpatient clinics to Tacoma General Hospital, Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital and Allenmore Hospital, providing a single, electronic health record for MultiCare patients. “Over the last ten years, we have grown and successfully implemented many initiatives that improve health care services to our community,” said MultiCare President and CEO Diane Cecchettini, RN. “Dr. Brown has been a catalyst for many of these initiatives, and I commend him for his many contributions over the last 10 years. We wish him well in his new endeavor.” ### MultiCare is a leading-edge, integrated health organization made up of four hospitals, numerous primary care and urgent care clinics, multi-specialty centers, Hospice and Home Health services, and many other services. A not-for-profit organization based in Tacoma, Washington since 1882, MultiCare has grown over the years in response to community needs. Today we are the area\'s largest provider of health care services, serving patients at 93 locations in Pierce, South King, Kitsap and Thurston counties. /home/news/41 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Todd Kelley, (253) 403-1716 (TACOMA) -- More than 500 cyclists will pedal 172 miles over three of Washington’s mountain passes, Snoqualmie, Blewett and Stevens, to benefit victims of child abuse and neglect. The 17th annual John L. Scott Foundation Courage Classic Bicycle Tour, a three-day cycling adventure, will begin Saturday, August 2, 2008, and benefits the treatment and recovery of child abuse victims; including those who have suffered sexual abuse, physical assault and domestic drug abuse exposure. Riders raise a minimum of $400 each in pledges and the proceeds go to the Rotary Endowment for the Intervention and Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect at Mary Bridge Children\'s Hospital. Proceeds also benefit the Children’s Trust Foundation. The ride begins on Snoqualmie Ridge and riders cross Snoqualmie Pass to Suncadia Resort near Cle Elum. The following day, Sunday, August 3, riders cross Blewett Pass and enjoy the Bavarian atmosphere of Leavenworth. On the final day, Monday, August 4, riders will continue over Stevens Pass and finish in the town of Skykomish. There are many special activities along the way. On Saturday evening, riders will be treated to their own jazz festival at Suncadia Resort. On Sunday, riders spend the evening in scenic Leavenworth. \"Many riders comment on how well fed they are during the ride,\" said MultiCare Director of Special Events Michael Shields. \"The Rotary Clubs involved provide excellent food along the route, including a spaghetti feed, baked potato bar and banana splits. Many riders even comment they gained weight during the ride.\" The 2008 Courage Classic is sponsored by the John L. Scott Foundation, Rotary Clubs of Pierce County, Alaska Airlines, Milgard Windows and United Parcel Service. In addition to sponsoring the event, Alaska Airlines has also formed the largest team of more than 80 riders from across the Western United States. Collectively, the team has already raised more than $32,000 through fundraisers and rider pledges. For more information, call (253) 403-4374 or go to www.courageclassic.org. ### About MultiCare Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital is part of the MultiCare Health System. MultiCare is a leading-edge, integrated health organization made up of four hospitals, numerous primary care and urgent care clinics, multi-specialty centers, Hospice and Home Health services, and many other services. A not-for-profit organization based in Tacoma, Washington since 1882, MultiCare has grown over the years in response to community needs. Today, MultiCare is the area\'s largest provider of health care services, serving patients at 93 locations in Pierce, South King, Kitsap and Thurston counties Courage Classic by the Numbers First Ride: 1992 Money donated by riders since 1992: $4.9 million Number of riders: 500+ Child Abuse Intervention Department at Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital Sexual assault examinations: 393 Physical assault examinations: 81 Home visits 691 Support group contacts: 100 Forensic interviews: 287 Case reviews: 486 Funding from the Courage Classic paid for those examinations. /home/news/40 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT:Todd Kelley 253-403-1716 MultiCare to Give High School Students Hands-On Nursing ExperienceFifth Annual Nurse Camp Enrolls More Than 100 Students (TACOMA) – MultiCare Health System will kick off the fifth annual Nurse Camp on Tuesday, July 29 with more than 100 students representing 47 high schools throughout Pierce, south King and Thurston counties. The physicians and staff at MultiCare will open their clinics and hospital units for students who are interested in learning about careers in nursing and health care. The 2008 Nurse Camp is co-sponsored by the Washington Health Foundation and Pfizer. Throughout the four-day program, students will shadow professional health care providers as they care for patients in the emergency department, intensive care, surgery, inpatient units and other patient care areas at Tacoma General Hospital, Allenmore Hospital and Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital & Health Center. Students will use the daVinci surgical robot and learn other surgical skills such as stapling, suturing and scrubbing. One of the most popular activities is performing a “skittlectomy” where students remove candy from a mannequin using minimally-invasive surgical tools. Students will also earn their CPR certification during Nurse Camp. “This unique hands-on experience encourages students to consider pursuing a career in health care,” said Liesl Santkuyl, MultiCare Community Outreach Liaison. “MultiCare employees are thrilled to pass on their passion for quality patient care and help students learn about exciting careers in health care.” New in 2008, students will hear about issues facing nursing today, such as the ongoing nursing shortage. On Friday, August 1, the students will present potential solutions to a panel of VIPs, including two legislators who happen to be nurses, Washington State Senator Rosa Franklin and Washington State Representative Dawn Morrell. The students will also have the opportunity to visit with college-level students and health care instructors at Tacoma Community College, Clover Park Technical College and a new partner, the University of Washington, Tacoma. For more information, or to enroll in the next Nurse Camp, please call 253-403-1401. ### MultiCare is a leading-edge, integrated health organization made up of four hospitals, numerous primary care and urgent care clinics, multi-specialty centers, Hospice and Home Health services, and many other services. A not-for-profit organization based in Tacoma, Washington since 1882, MultiCare has grown over the years in response to community needs. Today we are the area\'s largest provider of health care services, serving patients at 93 locations in Pierce, South King, Kitsap and Thurston counties. /home/news/39 Press Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE DATE: Wednesday, July 9, 2008 Contact: Jennifer AalgaardPhone: 253.219.1715Email: jennifer.aalgaard@goodsamhealth.org Access to Good Samaritan Hospital Changes on Thursday, July 10th, 2008 PUYALLUP, WA- Access to Good Samaritan Hospital will be forever changed on July 10th, 2008. At 7:00 a.m. on July 10th, 14th Ave SE, between 4th & 5th Street SE will be closing to make room for the new $400 million Patient Care Tower. Access to the Emergency Room will be re-routed through 15th Ave SE and 5th Street SE.   /home/news/34 See the June issue of South Sound Magazine for profiles of several MultiCare physicians who were named in the article, “Eight doctors who make a difference.” The article featured several South Sound physicians who make a positive impact with their patients, the community and the world. MultiCare affiliated and employed physicians featured include: Dr. George Tanbara, Co-Founder, Pediatrics Northwest Dr. Brian Kott, Interventional Neuroradiologist, TRA Medical Imaging at Tacoma General Dr. Donald Mott, Medical Staff Consultant at Good Samaritan Dr. Champ Weeks, Urologic Surgeon with MultiCare Dr. Glenn Tripp, Medical Director of the Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics and Neurodevelopment Center at Mary Bridge Several other physicians nominated for the distinction were also mentioned: Dr. Ronald K. Woods, Chief of Mary Bridge/Swedish Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery Dr. Chris Stefanelli, Director of Pediatric Cardiology, Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital Katherine Cleveland, PA, Mary Bridge/Swedish Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery Patti Fuchs, RN, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital Wendy Jacobs, RN, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital Lynne Nelson, RN, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital Mary Kessler, RN, Hematology/Oncology, Covington MultiCare Clinic Dr. Lauren Colman, Oncology, Gig Harbor MultiCare Medical Park Dr. Gregory Popich, Orthpedic Surgery/Sports Medicine, Pacific Sports Medicine Dr. Min-Chun Chen, MultiCare Regional Cancer Center Anne Flynn, OTR, MultiCare Adult Outpatient Rehabilitation Services Karen Perz, PT Program Coordinator, Vestibular & Balance Clinic, MultiCare Neuroscience Center Dr. Mario Alinea, MultiCare Occupational Medicine Paul Brimhall, Program Manager, MultiCare Transfusion-Free Medical and Surgical Program Dr. David Embrey, Program Research Coordinator, Children’s Therapy Unit, Good Samaritan Hospital Congratulations to our winners! Magazines are available at local newsstands or go to www.southsoundmag.com. /home/news/38 PRESS RELEASEFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEDATE: Thursday, June 26, 2008 Contact: Jennifer Aalgaard                                                                                          Phone: 253.219.1715                                                                                                  Email: jennifer.aalgaard@goodsamhealth.org   Contact: Vicki Brown Phone: 253.583.8613Email: vbrown@minw.com   A New Imaging Alliance for East Pierce County:MultiCare-Good Samaritan and Medical Imaging Northwest Grow Together PUYALLUP, WA- Ease for Hospital patients who need imaging services. That’s the reason behind a new equity joint venture between MultiCare-Good Samaritan Hospital and Medical Imaging Northwest. “By pooling the resources of these two institutions, patients will have better access to the wide array of imaging services in areas convenient to them,” explains John Long, President MultiCare-Good Samaritan Hospital. The name of this new venture will be Diagnostic Imaging Northwest, and alliance of Medical Imaging Northwest and MultiCare-Good Samaritan Hospital. “Puyallup and surrounding East Pierce County is not the sleepy little farming communities they were when I first came to this area 25 years ago,” states Andrew Levine, MD, Chair, Medical Imaging Northwest, LLP. “Neither is Good Samaritan Hospital.” As the community has evolved, so has the medical staff, with an increasing array of specialty and subspecialty clinicians. The growth has allowed residents to stay close to home to have their medical needs met. This will be further enhanced with the upcoming building of the MultiCare-Good Samaritan Patient Care Tower, already in progress across the street from the current Good Samaritan Hospital. It is this growth that inspired MultiCare-Good Samaritan to contact Medical Imaging Northwest 18-months ago about providing more collaborative imaging services to the residents of East Pierce County. Beginning in October 2008, Medical Imaging Northwest and MultiCare-Good Samaritan will operate imaging facilities at multiple locations in East Pierce County, including downtown Puyallup at Puyallup Imaging Center, South Hill at Sunrise Imaging Center and Bonney Lake at Bonney Lake Imaging Center. The services this new joint venture will provide include 3 fully digital centers that house High-Field Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT), Radiography and Fluoroscopy, Interventional Radiology, Ultrasound, Digital Mammography, Stereotactic Breast Biopsy, Ultrasound Guided Breast Biopsy and Bone Densitometry. ### MultiCare is a leading-edge, connected organization made up of four hospitals including Allenmore Hospital, Good Samaritan Hospital, Mary Bridge Children\'s Hospital and Tacoma General Hospital, numerous primary care and urgent care clinics, multi-specialty centers, Hospice and Home Health services, and many other services. A not-for-profit organization based in Tacoma, Washington since 1882, MultiCare has grown over the years in response to community needs. Today we are the area\'s largest provider of health care services, serving patients at 93 locations in Pierce, South King, Kitsap and Thurston counties. Medical Imaging Northwest is a group of private practice radiologists, technologists and staff committed to providing the finest medical imaging technology to our patients, and the communities we serve. Medical Imaging Northwest offers a broad range of services at multiple locations and provides quick, accurate reporting. We attract highly trained physicians (board certified radiologists with fellowship and/or subspecialty training) and registered radiologic technologists with advanced certifications and multiple capabilities. We own and operate American College of Radiology accredited imaging centers in Puyallup and Bonney Lake and provide professional services for the radiology departments of MultiCare-Good Samaritan Hospital, Puyallup and Allenmore Hospital, Tacoma. We also serve MultiCare clinics in Auburn, Covington, Tacoma and Gig Harbor. /home/news/35 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT:Todd Kelley (253) 403-1716 (COVINGTON) – The community’s first urgent care center will soon offer longer morning, evening and weekend hours. Beginning Sunday, June 22, the Covington MultiCare Urgent Care Center will be open Monday through Friday, 7 am to 10 pm and 7 am to 6 pm Saturday, Sunday and most holidays, except Thanksgiving and Christmas. The urgent care center is at 17700 SE 272nd St. in Covington. Opened in 1993, the Covington MultiCare Urgent Care Center is perfectly equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses. Patients who come to an urgent care center instead of a hospital emergency room will experience shorter wait times and reduced costs, but still have immediate access to a physician, lab and x-ray services on site. Having these services available on site enables a physician to order the necessary testing to aid in the diagnosis of the medical problem in a much more efficient manner. For more information, call (253) 372-7160 or visit www.multicare.org. ### /home/news/32 To celebrate our one-year anniversary, we are giving away a unique spa package including a Wild Organic Hydrating and Detox Body Cocoon and Sunless Tan.This 1-1/2 hour pampering experience starts with invigorating exfoliation, followed by detoxing muds, a luxurious 14-jet Vichy shower, and ends with an incredible natural-looking spray-on tan. ($185.00 value).Enter to win!View other spa services available. /home/news/37 Press Release:For Immediate ReleaseFriday, June 20th, 2008Contact: Jennifer Aalgaard253.219.1715Todd Kelley253.403.1716 PIERCE COUNTY, WA- Greg Rolsma, of University Place, was crowned Pierce County’s Biggest Winner on Saturday, June 14th, after completing the Roman Meal Sound to Narrows 5K run. Rolsma lost 46 lbs. and 15.8% of his body weight while competing for the last 14 weeks with 19 other contestants from across Pierce County. For his achievement, Rolsma won an 18-month membership to Pierce County’s YMCA, three sessions with a Registered Dietician, and a two night stay at the Sleeping Lady Lodge in Leavenworth. Rolsma, a proud father of two, said his son, a football player for Central Washington University, was a big motivator for him. “I saw how fit my son was from playing on the team, and I knew I could follow his lead,” said Rolsma. Rolsma, who works for Frontier Bank, frequently dines out and entertains and the advice from the MultiCare Dietician helped him make positive choices in “real life.” His wife took regular walks with him and helps with food preparation and choices at home. The trainers and dietitian for Rolsma’s team, the Black Team, said that he was a leader; organizing group activities on the weekend, serving as the team cheerleader and encouraged everyone to reach their goals. “I am extremely proud of Greg and all his accomplishments throughout the program, he did an awesome job,” said Michele Schaper, MultiCare Wellness Dietician. “Greg was an absolute pleasure to work with and I will miss seeing him on a weekly basis.” Runner-Up Coming in a close second, Scott Andrews of Tacoma, lost 50.6 lbs, 15.5% of his body weight. Heather Nighbor of Gig Harbor was the female winner, losing 23.8 lbs, 13.1% of her body weight. Nighbor is just 20 lbs away from her goal weight. The team that lost the most was the Black Team, from East Pierce County, with a total loss of 153.4 lbs, 11.5% weight loss. Biggest Winner Competition MultiCare Center For Healthy Living, in partnership with Pierce County Gets Fit, began Pierce County\'s Biggest Winner program in 2007. Four teams of five Pierce County contestants were chosen to compete to lose weight over a 14-week period. Each team represents four different regions in Pierce County (Tacoma, Gig Harbor, Lakewood and East Pierce) and includes a community leader and a business representative from their region. This 14-week program included before and after health assessments, individual sessions with a Registered Dietitian and Certified Trainer, nutrition and fitness classes, a 12-week exercise program at the YMCA, and lots of encouragement along the way. For more information on Pierce County Gets Fit, Pierce County Biggest Winner and the MultiCare Center For Healthy Living, visit www.piercecountygetsfit.com. /home/news/36 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT: Todd Kelley (253) 403-1716 (TACOMA) – In a special opportunity just for men, MultiCare Health System will host, “The Drive Against Prostate Cancer,” a free prostate cancer screening on Friday, July 11, 2008. “The Drive Against Prostate Cancer” will be held at a mobile screening unit located between JC Penney and Sears at the Tacoma Mall from 12 noon to 7 pm. The screening consists of a simple blood test, with results in less than 20 minutes. No appointments or insurance coverage are necessary. While waiting for test results, men can enjoy free snacks and watch a sporting event on the big screen TV. MultiCare physicians John Rieke, MD, and Champ Weeks, MD will be providing these simple checks and offering information on prostate cancer prevention and treatment. “Offering these tests in a welcoming environment for men is a great opportunity to educate them about prostate cancer,” said Dr. Weeks. “Men often don’t know the facts, only to find out later they have prostate cancer, which could have been easily detected, treated early or even prevented.” Only skin cancer has a higher rate of incidence among men. Regular checks and screenings are the best way to prevent prostate cancer or detect it early. For more information, go to www.multicare.org. ### /home/news/33 Press Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE DATE: Monday, June 9th, 2008  Contact: Jennifer AalgaardPhone: 253.219.1715Email: jennifer.aalgaard@goodsamhealth.org Good Samaritan Outpatient Laboratory Relocating June 16th PUYALLUP, WA- On June 16th, the Good Samaritan Hospital Outpatient Laboratory will be relocating to the new Rieder Medical Building at 1701 3rd St SE, Suite 301 in Puyallup, located just three blocks from Good Samaritan Hospital. Previously located in the main hospital, the new Outpatient Laboratory will provide easy access and convenient parking, extended service hours including Saturdays, reduced wait times to less than 15 minutes typically, and private draw rooms. The new facility also allows for a quick one-stop registration process lowering time spent at the facility dramatically. Hours of operation are Monday thru Friday, 7:00 am - 5:30 pm, Saturday, 7:30 am - 3:00 pm. You can call the new Outpatient Laboratory at 253.697.4696. The addition of the Rieder Medical Building has inspired practices to relocate to Good Samaritan’s growing campus allowing physicians easy access to patients that may be staying at the hospital. Examples of some of the practices currently in the Rieder Medical Building include, Good Samaritan Family Medicine at Puyallup, Dedicated Women’s Health Specialists, and Neurology & Neurosurgery Associates. For more information on the Rieder Medical Building, please call 253.697.2029. ### MultiCare is a leading-edge, connected organization made up of four hospitals including Allenmore Hospital, Good Samaritan Hospital, Mary Bridge Children\'s Hospital and Tacoma General Hospital, numerous primary care and urgent care clinics, multi-specialty centers, Hospice and Home Health services, and many other services. A not-for-profit organization based in Tacoma, Washington since 1882, MultiCare has grown over the years in response to community needs. Today we are the area\'s largest provider of health care services, serving patients at 93 locations in Pierce, South King, Kitsap and Thurston counties. /home/news/31 PRESS RELEASEFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEDate: Thursday, June 5th, 2008Contact: Jennifer AalgaardPhone: 253.219.1715Email: jennifer.aalgaard@goodsamhealth.org PUYALLUP, WA- Good Samaritan Family Medicine at Puyallup is pleased to share that Dr. Charles Nam and Dr. Joel Estrada, Internal Medicine Specialists, have moved to a new office space located in the Rieder Medical Building at 1701 3rd St SE, Suite 300, Puyallup, just blocks from Good Samaritan Hospital. The new clinic is equipped to offer easy access and convenient parking along with a comfortable lobby in a new building. The expansion of space also allows for Dr. Estrada to expand his practice, as he is accepting new patients. Hours of operation are Monday thru Friday, 8:30 am -5:00 pm. Please call 253.697.5767 for more information on Good Samaritan Family Medicine at Puyallup or to schedule an appointment. The addition of the Rieder Medical Building has inspired practices to relocate to Good Samaritan’s growing campus allowing physicians easy access to patients that may be staying at the hospital. Examples of some of the practices planned to relocate to the Rieder Medical Building include, Good Samaritan Outpatient Laboratory, Dedicated Women’s Health Specialists, and Neurology & Neurosurgery Associates. For more information on the Rieder Medical Building, please call 253.697.2029. /home/news/30 Tuesday, June 03, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT: Todd Kelley (253) 403-1716   TACOMA – Jason L. Adams, FACHE, Vice President of Revenue Cycle for MultiCare Health System recently became a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, the nation’s leading professional society for healthcare leaders. “Because healthcare management ultimately affects the people in our communities, it is critically important to have a standard of excellence promoted by a professional organization,” says Thomas C. Dolan, PhD, FACHE, CAE, President and Chief Executive Officer of ACHE. “By becoming an ACHE Fellow and simultaneously earning board certification from ACHE, healthcare leaders can show that they are committed to providing high-quality service to their patients and community.”             Adams came to MultiCare from Wellspring Partners, a health care financial services consulting organization, in October 2007. He started his career in health care as a Clinical Paramedic/Firefighter in Boston and in New Hampshire.             Adams earned his Bachelor of the Arts in Business Management from Notre Dame and he earned his Master of Business Administration in health care management from Rivier College in Nashua, New Hampshire. Fellow status represents achievement of the highest standard of professional development. In fact, only 7,500 healthcare executives hold this distinction. To obtain Fellow status, candidates must fulfill multiple requirements, including passing a comprehensive examination, meeting academic and experiential criteria, earning continuing education credits and demonstrating professional/community involvement. Fellows are also committed to ongoing professional development and undergo recertification every three years. Adams is privileged to use the FACHE credential, which signifies board certification in healthcare management and ACHE Fellow status.   ###   MultiCare is a leading-edge, integrated health organization made up of four hospitals, numerous primary care and urgent care clinics, multi-specialty centers, Hospice and Home Health services, and many other services. A not-for-profit organization based in Tacoma, Washington since 1882, MultiCare has grown over the years in response to community needs. Today we are the area\'s largest provider of health care services, serving patients at 93 locations in Pierce, South King, Kitsap and Thurston counties.     The American College of Healthcare Executives is an international professional society of more than 30,000 healthcare executives who lead our nation’s hospitals, healthcare systems and other healthcare organizations. ACHE is known for its prestigious credentialing and educational programs and its annual Congress on Healthcare Leadership, which draws more than 4,500 participants each year. ACHE is also known for its journal, the Journal of Healthcare Management, and magazine, Healthcare Executive, as well as ground-breaking research and career development and public policy programs. ACHE’s publishing division, Health Administration Press, is one of the largest publishers of books and journals on all aspects of health services management in addition to textbooks for use in college and university courses. Through such efforts, ACHE works toward its goal of being the premier professional society for healthcare leaders by providing exceptional value to its members.   /home/news/29 Friday, May 30, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT:Todd Kelley (253) 403-1716   (TACOMA)--MultiCare Health System has received the Hope Award from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society of Washington.             The honor was given at the 2008 Dinner of Champions, a premier gala event held at the Grand Hyatt Seattle. This prestigious award honors those who have made a significant contribution to the fight against Multiple Sclerosis.             “Earning the Hope Award is a great honor for our team,” says Tacoma Neurologist John Huddlestone, MD. “The work we are doing for MS in Tacoma through the MultiCare Neurosciences Center of Washington is groundbreaking and much has been accomplished in recent years. We are giving patients a high quality of life and mobility.” The MultiCare Neurosciences Center of Washington is uniquely equipped to meet the challenges of treating those with MS and improving their lives and mobility. MultiCare provides the highest level of care through leading-edge technology, the most qualified professionals, and comprehensive treatment options for MS. MultiCare’s goal is to provide a convenient, family-friendly center for the diagnosis, treatment, education, and ongoing support of MS patients and their families, including non-medical and psychosocial needs.  These needs, if unmet, can adversely affect medical outcomes for MS patients by impacting a patient’s ability to follow through on a medical treatment plan.             MultiCare also provides supportive therapies such as a groundbreaking exercise program called, “The Lebed Method.” The method improves movement through stretching, toning and dance. The class is available for free.             For more information on MultiCare Neurosciences Center of Washington, call 1-800-342-9919.   ### MultiCare is a leading-edge, integrated health organization made up of four hospitals, numerous primary care and urgent care clinics, multi-specialty centers, Hospice and Home Health services, and many other services. A not-for-profit organization based in Tacoma, Washington since 1882, MultiCare has grown over the years in response to community needs. Today we are the area\'s largest provider of health care services, serving patients at 93 locations in Pierce, South King, Kitsap and Thurston counties.   /home/news/28                                                                        Good Samaritan Opens Starbucks on June 2nd   PUYALLUP, WA- Good Samaritan Hospital is celebrating the opening of a Starbucks June 2nd, 2008. The coffeehouse is located in the Main Lobby of the Hospital and is operated by Avascend.The opening of this Starbucks location allows Good Samaritan to bring the Starbucks Experience to its customers. Patients, visitors, guests and employees can now enjoy a beverage on-the-go, or relax in the coffeehouse\'s comfortable seating area. The new Starbucks coffeehouse will offer a full beverage menu - including espresso drinks, brewed coffees, Frappuccino® blended beverages, and Tazo® tea, as well as, pastries and other baked selections. Starbucks® merchandise, including mugs, CDs and other gift items are available. \"We have more than 2,200 employees at Good Samaritan who are anxiously awaiting the opening of Starbucks. This is one of the many new relationships we are creating at Good Samaritan to exceed the expectations of patients and their families at a quality institution,\" said John Long, President Good Samaritan. “It\'s a very exciting time at Good Samaritan.”   Good Samaritan Hospital is striving to become the regional medical center of choice for residents of East Pierce County and providing outstanding customer service is one step leading to that goal. “We are very energized at the opportunity to provide this convenience to our patients and visitors,” said Long. “We hope to expand this service as the demand grows.” The initial hours of operation are 6:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.   ### Founded in 1952, Good Samaritan Community Healthcare has grown and evolved into Good Samaritan Hospital, an affiliate of parent company, MultiCare Health System. Good Samaritan provides comprehensive healthcare to eastern Pierce County. Our expanding healthcare services include an acute care hospital in Puyallup, family medicine clinics, outpatient surgery center, comprehensive mental health program, outpatient specialty care clinics, outreach programs to support varying social service needs of our community. /home/news/27 FOR RITE AID:Cheryl Slavinsky(717) 731-6566FOR MULTICARE HEALTH SYSTEM:Todd Kelley(253) 403-1716 Tacoma, WA – Rite Aid Corporation and MultiCare Health System today announced an agreement to open MultiCare Express Clinics inside two Rite Aid stores in Tacoma and Lakewood, WA, this summer. At MultiCare Express Clinics certified nurse practitioners will provide patients with wellness services and quality care for common illnesses such as strep throat, ear aches, flu, bladder infections, bronchitis and allergies as well as laboratory tests, immunizations and health screenings. “Like Rite Aid, MultiCare is dedicated to enhancing the health of the communities it serves and to upholding its mission of providing and setting the standard for quality patient care in the region,” said Andrew Baron, MD, Primary Care Medical Director for the MultiCare Medical Group. “These new MultiCare Express Clinics will offer convenient, walk-in care for the whole family with minimal wait times at affordable prices. The clinics are affiliated with the resources of the locally based MultiCare Health System, including Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital.” With the patient’s permission, the MultiCare Express Clinics can provide treatment information to the patient’s primary care provider. Those who need additional services can access the physicians, clinics and hospitals of the MultiCare Health System, the largest health system in the south Puget Sound region.“Our partnership with MultiCare Health System fits in well with our strategic vision to be the destination for health and wellness services,” said Mark de Bruin, Rite Aid executive vice president of pharmacy. “The MultiCare Express clinics will provide the same quality of healthcare patients would expect from any MultiCare Health System provider.” About Rite Aid Rite Aid Corporation is one of the nation’s leading drugstore chains with more than 5,000 stores in 31 states and the District of Columbia with fiscal 2008 annual sales of more than $24.3 billion. Information about Rite Aid, including corporate background and press releases, is available through the company’s website at http://www.riteaid.com. About MultiCare MultiCare is a leading-edge, integrated health organization made up of four hospitals, numerous primary care and urgent care clinics, multi-specialty centers, Hospice and Home Health services, and many other services. A not-for-profit organization based in Tacoma, Washington since 1882, MultiCare has grown over the years in response to community needs. Today, MultiCare is the area\'s largest provider of health care services, serving patients at 93 locations in Pierce, South King, Kitsap and Thurston counties. Information about MultiCare is available through the company’s website at http://www.multicare.org. # # # /home/news/25 Patient Care Tower Patient Room Mock-ups YOU ARE INVITED AND URGED TO COME!! Please plan to take a tour and see examples of our future In-patient care spaces. You will tour a Critical Care Room and an Emergency Department Treatment Room. Refreshments will be served. Dates: Thursday May 22 Monday May 26 through Thursday May 29 Monday June 2 through Thursday June 5 Times: 7:30 to 9:30 am 11:00 am to 1:00 pm 2:00pm to 4:00 pm (other tour times on request – just call Jamie at 697-1756) Location: 419 15th Ave SE Puyallup, WA Just up the hill from the main hospital entrance to the building on 15th Ave between 4th and 5th. /home/news/21 World-class breast services center coming to Tacoma in 2009 MultiCare Health System is partnering with two other leading health care providers in the South Sound region to create a world-class center in Tacoma that will provide a full suite of advanced screening and diagnostic breast services for women. MultiCare, Franciscan Health System and TRA Medical Imaging – the largest providers of breast-imaging services in the region – are collaborating to establish the Carol Milgard Breast Center. The unique, state-of-the-art center will open in early 2009. The Carol Milgard Breast Center is named to honor the spirit of a woman who was a long-time Tacoma resident, philanthropist, and 30-year survivor of breast cancer. The Gary E. Milgard Family Foundation has committed $5 million toward development of this center of excellence. The center will be: The facility of choice for community providers to obtain accurate and timely diagnosis of breast disease for their patients. A gathering place for multidisciplinary medical teams to discuss every facet of breast diagnosis and treatment. A magnet that attracts highly trained and specialized radiologists, technologists and other experts who are dedicated to excellence in breast care. Its services will include: Digital mammography Breast ultrasound Breast MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) Breast biopsy (including stereotactic, ultrasound-guided and MRI-guided biopsy) Bone density services “The creation of this center is the realization of a dream that we have been working toward for years,” says Khai Tran, MD, who is medical director of mammography and women’s imaging at TRA Medical Imaging in Tacoma. “With this center, we will be able to provide a level of care for the community that will be unsurpassed in Seattle or anywhere else. “By combining a comfortable, caring environment with the newest technology and highly trained and specialized staff, we will be able to focus on helping women through what is a most stressful time,” Dr. Tran adds. The Carol Milgard Breast Center will be conveniently located at 4525 S. 19th Street, near Highway 16, in Tacoma. It will serve residents of Tacoma, Pierce County and the South Sound in a compassionate, respectful atmosphere that welcomes all women regardless of socioeconomic status. The center, with its singular focus on breast screening and diagnosis, will employ board-certified radiology physicians specially trained in breast imaging. Also, the center will comply with best practices for care established by the Mammography Quality Standards Act approved by Congress in 1992, as well as guidelines recommended by the American Cancer Society. /home/news/18 Tuesday, April 22, 2008FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT:Todd Kelley (253) 403-1716(TACOMA)—MultiCare Health System is increasingly closer to the goal of raising $25 million to expand and build new Emergency Departments (EDs) for Tacoma General Hospital and Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital. The goal of the campaign amount represents about one-third of the total cost of the new building. Generous lead gifts pledged from board members, employees and physicians have raised total commitments to The Emergency Services Campaign to more than $16 million so far. The expansion will be housed in a new building, named the Milgard Pavilion in recognition of combined $5 million gifts from the James Milgard Family Charitable Fund and the Gary E. Milgard Family Foundation. The new emergency departments are expected to be completed in early 2010. The physicians have also responded with a donation of over $1 million and the employees of the MultiCare Health System have raised over $1.4 million. \"The support given by our Boards, employees and physicians has been remarkable,\" said Sara Long, Vice President of Philanthropy for MultiCare Health System. \"It is particularly inspirational, given that those closest to our mission know how very important emergency services are to our community and how critical it is that we expand our facilities.\" The Need for New Emergency Departments Originally built in the early 1980’s, the current Emergency Departments are severely overcrowded, too small and inadequately designed to meet today’s needs and the needs of patients in the future. Designed to accommodate 40,000 patient visits annually, last year the two EDs handled almost 70,000 patient visits, a 42 percent increase over its design capabilities. This situation will only get worse as the population continues to grow. The need for new, expanded, and better-designed facilities is magnified by the population growth of middle and senior age groups that require more health care than other residents. For example, by 2014 the population of MultiCare’s primary service area aged 45 to 64 is projected to grow 32 percent, while the population aged 65 and older is projected to grow 29 percent. This aging of the population will require MultiCare to dedicate an increasingly significant portion of its facilities and services to the treatment of chronic diseases and disorders that affect the elderly. The two hospitals need to upgrade and acquire advanced medical technology to ensure they can meet patient needs with the latest diagnostic and treatment capabilities. In addition, facility improvements are important for attracting and retaining expert physicians and other medical personnel. The Plan for the New Emergency Departments Designed with the input of MultiCare doctors and nurses, the new Emergency Departments and an Express Care Center (ECC) will be more than five times the size of the existing Emergency Departments, expanding from its current combined 13,000 square feet to 73,500 square feet. The Emergency Services Campaign MultiCare Health System is a locally-based and governed not-for-profit health care organization. It operates cost-effective, efficient, and high-quality hospitals, but financial pressures do exist. The projected cost of constructing and equipping the two new Emergency Departments and Express Care Center is $72 million. The project will be funded through a combination of cash reserves, operations, and debt, leaving a shortfall of $25 million to be raised from community support. \"We are very encouraged by the progress of the campaign so far,\" Folsom said. \"Our community has responded favorably and we are well on our way to building Emergency Departments that will serve our community’s growing needs now and well into the future.\" Campaign co-chairs John Folsom, Bill Philip and Jane Taylor join the Board of Directors of the MultiCare Health Foundation and Mary Bridge Children’s Foundation in launching The Emergency Services Campaign to approach area residents, businesses and foundations for philanthropic support. The Future of Emergency Care The new, much-larger Emergency Departments and Express Care Center will meet the needs of our community now and well into the future. They will provide medical personnel with the capacity to treat the increasing number of adult and pediatric emergency and urgent care patients more quickly and efficiently while providing a comforting and healing environment for patients and their families. \"The vitality of our community depends upon the health of its citizens, said MultiCare Health System Board Chair and Campaign Co-Chair John Folsom. \"One of the most important community services is the availability of quality emergency services, close to home.\" /home/news/20 Monday, April 21, 2008FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT:Todd Kelley (253) 403-1716 (TACOMA) – MultiCare Health System President and Chief Executive Officer Diane Cecchettini, RN, has received the CEO IT Achievement Award for 2008 from Modern Healthcare Magazine and the Healthcare Information and Management System Society (HIMSS). Ms. Cecchettini was only one of three CEOs nationally to receive the recognition and the only CEO in Washington State The award recognizes healthcare CEOs who demonstrate leadership and a commitment to using information technology to advance their organizations’ goals. A five-judge panel consisting of two CEOs chosen by Modern Healthcare and three chief information officers chosen by HIMSS selected Ms. Cecchettini and two others out of 37 nominees. \"Diane’s vision of an ideal patient experience is to create a seamless, easy, valued, and sustainable continuum of health care that enhances the experience of both the patient and the provider,\" said Florence Chang, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer. \"Technology is one of the core strategies that MultiCare uses to fulfill that vision, and the investment in those technologies not only changes the way we deliver care but makes health care better, safer, and more convenient for the patients in the communities we serve.\" Ten years ago, MultiCare Health System became the first health system in the south Puget Sound to implement an electronic health record (EHR) for patients at its ambulatory clinics in Pierce and south King Counties. In 2007, MultiCare implemented this leading edge technology at Tacoma General Hospital, Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital and Allenmore Hospital, providing a single, electronic health record for all MultiCare patients, whether they are seen in a clinic or a hospital. MultiCare is now one of few health systems in the nation to have system-wide electronic health records. Called MultiCare Connect, the system allows immediate, secure access to a single, comprehensive health record each time a patient visits a MultiCare hospital or doctor. \"A health record reflects a lifetime of health care for a patient, including immunizations, allergies, prescriptions, surgeries, lab reports, x-rays and more,\" said MultiCare Chief Operating Officer George J. Brown, M.D. \"This wealth of immediately accessible, secure information helps our physicians assess patients’ needs in order to provide them with the best possible care.\" In addition to the EHR, MultiCare has recently made investments in radiology, imaging, and voice recognition software. With the new Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) a radiologist can read and access images from any computer at any time through a secure web portal. The voice recognition software improves turnaround time of transcribed reports and is another step toward our goal of a film-less radiology system. # # # MultiCare is a leading-edge, integrated health organization made up of four hospitals, numerous primary care and urgent care clinics, multi-specialty centers, Hospice and Home Health services, and many other services. A not-for-profit organization based in Tacoma, Washington since 1882, MultiCare has grown over the years in response to community needs. Today we are the area\'s largest provider of health care services, serving patients at 93 locations in Pierce, South King, Kitsap, and Thurston counties.