http://www.multicare.org/tacomageneral/rss/news News RSS Feed en-us Fri, 20 Nov 2009 22:05:34 PST Fri, 20 Nov 2009 22:05:34 PST /tacomageneral/news/124 TACOMA, WA – MultiCare Health System has won the “Silver Award for Best Employee Recruitment Site for a Healthcare System” from eHealthcare Strategy & Trends, the premiere national organization that focuses on the ways leading-edge health care organizations use the Internet and technology to achieve their objectives. MultiCare’s provider recruitment website, www.blazenewtrails.org, was judged by a panel of 116 professionals in the health care industry on more than 60 factors, including interactivity, integration with the organization\'s operations, as well as strength of Web design and ease of navigation. MultiCare was chosen from more than 1,100 entries. The site was designed by local design firm, Rusty George Creative and built by Tacoma-based SiteCrafting. The award was given at the 13th Annual eHealthcare Leadership Awards on November 4 in Las Vegas, Nevada.   Media Contact:Jennifer Aalgaard253.219.1715jennifer.aalgaard@multicare.org /tacomageneral/news/123 TACOMA, WA- Northwest Construction Magazine recently completed the judging process for its Best of 2009 awards competition and has awarded MultiCare’s Steam Plant with the Best Industrial structure award. The annual contest recognizes construction and design excellence in Oregon, Washington and Alaska. This year’s competition received a record-breaking number of entries; eighty-five projects vied for honors, the most ever received. Opened in March, the steam plant, located adjacent to historic Wright Park in Tacoma, provides MultiCare’s Tacoma General and Mary Bridge Children’s hospitals with sterilization, heat, energy and oxygen supply needs, and furnishes backup power in the event of an emergency. It is also designed to cut harmful emissions in the area by up to 30 percent over the previous facility. The exterior of the Boiler Plant pays homage to inventors and scientists who were responsible for many of the advances made in modern physics and engineering. The use of red brick construction matches surrounding buildings and glass windows reflect the trees and colors of Wright Park. Three boilers, which are fueled by natural gas, a clean-burning fuel, are housed in the new building. Water is heated by natural gas, and the resulting steam is piped underground and throughout the hospital campus to sterilize equipment and provide heat. The facility also includes three emergency generators to power the surrounding campus during power outages and disasters. A panel of industry experts from both states judged the entries. Eligible projects were completed between Sept. 1, 2008, and Sept. 1, 2009. The winning projects will be honored at an awards breakfast December 11 at the 7:30 a.m. at the Seattle Waterfront Marriott. Media Contact:Jennifer Aalgaard253.219.1715jennifer.aalgaard@multicare.org /tacomageneral/news/122 PUYALLUP, WA- On Friday, October 23, MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital received approval for a Certificate of Need application from the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) to provide adult elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), or angioplasty. Angioplasty is the technique of mechanical widening of a narrowed or totally obstructed blood vessel in the heart. “This is another step towards MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital becoming the regional medical center of choice for everyone in East Pierce County,” said John Long, President of MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital. “With the recent accreditation of our Chest Pain Center and the creation of a dedicated cardiac unit, Good Sam will continue to expand our top quality cardiac program so patients requiring cardiac care can stay close to home. We expect to begin offering elective PCI care early in 2010.” The 2007 Washington Sate Legislature directed the Department of Health (DOH) to develop rules to lift restrictions on elective angioplasty to include hospitals that have shown the capabilities to provide this service without risk to the patient. Many hospitals agreed on the implementation of the following rules: Require hospitals to go through a rigorous approval process (Certificate of Need) to prove capabilities, community need and standards to ensure the quality of care for patients Put the health and choices of patients above economics Provide a reasonable level of assurance for existing providers that the new system will recognize local economic realities. After an 18-month process, the DOH laid out planning areas that allowed Good Samaritan to apply for the Certificate of Need. Media Contact:Jennifer Aalgaard253.219.1715jennifer.aalgaard@multicare.org /tacomageneral/news/120 During this year’s flu season we are working hard to do all we can to protect our patients and visitors from the H1N1 flu (swine flu) virus.Here is an update on some of our current guidelines for visitors to our hospitals:Mary Bridge Children’s HospitalYoung children with chronic diseases or disabilities are particularly vulnerable to this illness. As of Oct. 12, visitors to Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital are limited to adults and children age 12 years and older. Mary Bridge visitors who are 12-18 years of age will be screened at each visit for symptoms of influenza.Allenmore Hospital, Good Samaritan Hospital, Tacoma General HospitalYoung children are especially likely to get sick from H1N1, and, though it may take several days for them to show symptoms, they can easily pass the virus to others. We strongly recommend that you leave any children under the age of 12 at home when you come to visit these hospitals.We also encourage these groups to avoid visiting our hospitals, if possible:• Anyone with signs and symptoms of colds or flu• People who have weak immune systems• Women who are pregnant• Children between 12 and 18 years oldMultiCare is keeping a close watch on H1N1 in our community. For the protection of our patients, visitors and employees, our visitation guidelines may continue to change as the flu season progresses. Some patient areas may need to establish stricter guidelines to protect especially sick or vulnerable patients. To stay current on the latest information, call:MultiCare Allenmore Hospital: 253.459.6633MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital: 253.697.4000MultiCare Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital: 253.403.1400MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital: 253.403.1000Thank you for your cooperation and understanding. /tacomageneral/news/119 (TACOMA) - The MultiCare Regional Cancer Center and MultiCare Tacoma Family Medicine are sponsoring a Bone Marrow Drive, Tuesday, October 20 from 10am-2pm in the Katterhagen Resource Center in Tacoma General Hospital 3rd floor of the L wing. “The ultimate goal of the drive is to reach out to our diverse community to assist in identifying possible donors,” said David Nicewonger, Administrator for the MultiCare Cancer Center. “People in our community can help patients with debilitating diseases by just being tested on October 20th.” 90% of donor matches are found within the same racial or ethnic community and only two out of ten patients find the bone marrow match needed to save their lives. This test will identify if a person is a possible match for a patient who is waiting for this life saving donation. A bone marrow transplant delivers healthy bone marrow stem cells into the patient. It replaces bone marrow that is either not working properly or has been destroyed by chemotherapy or radiation. Bone marrow transplants are used for certain leukemia’s and cancers as well as to replace bone marrow when treatment for cancer has destroyed the individuals own bone marrow. Anyone 18 or older can be pre-screened. The screening takes approximately 10 minutes and only requires an oral swab of the cheek. No pre-registration is required. For more information, call 1-800-351-7955. Media Contact:253.219.1715susan.messier@multicare.org /tacomageneral/news/118 (TACOMA)--Area consumers have once again selected MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital as a preferred hospital for receiving health care. That’s the finding of National Research Corporation (NRC), which has honored Tacoma General with the 2009/10 Consumer Choice award. Tacoma General Hospital first received the distinction in 1996 and has won it twelve times since then. The National Research Corporation Consumer Choice Award polls the opinions of over 250,000 households across the nation and approximately 750 households locally. Out of 3,200 hospitals nationwide, Tacoma General is one of only 280 hospitals to earn the award. Based on the views of local consumers, Tacoma General is a highly preferred health care provider for the Tacoma/Pierce County region. In addition, consumers ranked Tacoma General highly in terms of its technology, range of health care services, community health programs and website. MultiCare was also ranked number 6 nationwide in the Top 100 Integrated Health Networks by SDI, Inc. and has earned this distinction more than any other health system in Washington State. Media Contact:253.219.1715susan.messier@multicare.org /tacomageneral/news/115 TACOMA, WA- MultiCare Allenmore Hospital is holding its annual Open House and Health Fair, Sunday, October 4, from 12-3pm. Free seasonal flu shots and screenings, including bone density, blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose testing, will be available. Also included is the opportunity to view a fascinating robotic surgery demonstration, featuring the sophisticated daVinci® system. Experts in a wide range of specialties, from oncology, diabetes and ophthalmology to sports medicine and physical therapy, will also be on hand to answer questions. Free valet parking also will be provided along with plenty of self-park spaces. Allenmore Hospital is located at: 1901 S. Union, Tacoma For more information, call 800.342.9919 or visit multicare.org. Please note: Seasonal flu shots available to the first 400 participants 18 years of age and older. H1N1 flu vaccinations are not available yet. For cholesterol screenings, a two-hour fast is recommended. Media Contact:Jennifer AalgaardCell: 253.219.1715Email: jennifer.aalgaard@multicare.org /tacomageneral/news/112 (PIERCE COUNTY) – “It’s like winning the Oscar for Best Motion Picture,” explains Florence S. Chang, Chief Information Officer and Senior VP of Clinical Support Services at MultiCare Health System. Chang is referring to the prestigious HIMSS Davies Organizational Award of Excellence given to just one health care system in the country that effectively uses health information technology, such as electronic health records, to improve the safety and quality of patient care. HIMSS (Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society) visited MultiCare’s Tacoma campus last month to better understand its electronic health record, MultiCare Connect. Patricia Wise, RN, and VP, HIMSS was a member of the site team that got a hands-on look at MultiCare Connect. Speaking for the team, she said, “The amount of work you’ve done individually and collectively is so impressive.” She added, “Implementation is such rigorous work and what we’ve seen in your hospitals is a testament to your commitment to patient safety and quality.” “For ten years, we have been creating a new level of quality patient care with MultiCare Connect, first in our clinics and now in our hospitals,” said Diane Cecchettini, RN, President and CEO of MultiCare. “Receiving this award is a tribute to our physicians and staff who are using the electronic health record each and every day in caring for our patients.” All MultiCare outpatient clinics and the three Tacoma campus hospitals are linked to MultiCare Connect. MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital in Puyallup will be online in the spring of 2010. MultiCare patients can view their health record, lab and test results, schedule an appointment or refill prescriptions using a secure patient portal called MyChart (Powered by MultiCare) at home or anywhere they have internet access. “Being recognized as tops in the country is an incredible honor,” says Chang, “and wonderful validation for the work we have been doing to create an electronic health record that follows one patient with one record.” She went on to say, “We have been using MultiCare Connect for the past decade. Without the engagement from our physicians and the strong foundation developed early in our outpatient clinics, the implementation in our hospitals would not have been as successful and our patients would not have reaped the benefits of seamless, connected care.\" Media Contact:Jennifer Aalgaard253-219-1715jennifer.aalgaard@multicare.org /tacomageneral/news/110 PIERCE COUNTY, WA- Timothy Graham, MD, has joined the MultiCare Spanaway Clinic. Dr. Graham is a board-certified family practice physician. He provides a wide range of acute, chronic and preventive medical care for the entire family. Dr. Graham received his medical degree from the Ohio State University College of Medicine and completed his residency at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. Prior to joining MultiCare he practiced in Ohio, served as a Program Director for a Family Practice residency and worked as a Physician Advisor. In his spare time, he enjoys running, the arts and taking in cultural activities. Through Dr. Graham, patients are connected to the full resources of MultiCare, from state-of-the-art hospital facilities to the expertise of literally hundreds of health care professionals. In addition, Dr. Graham connects you to your electronic health record via MyChart; visit multicare.org for more information. From primary care to critical care to specialty care, MultiCare helps keep you better connected. To make an appointment with Dr. Graham, please call the MultiCare Spanaway Clinic at 253.459.7777. Media Contact:Jennifer AalgaardPhone: 253.219.1715Email: jennifer.aalgaard@multicare.org /tacomageneral/news/108 PUYALLUP, WA- Dawei Lu, MD, has joined the MultiCare Orthopedics and Sports Medicine program in Puyallup. Dr. Lu is an orthopedic spine surgeon specializing in the care and treatment of all adult and pediatric spine conditions including spine deformity, degenerative diseases, spinal tumors and spine trauma. Dr. Lu emphasizes selecting the best treatment for patients based on their age, pathology and symptoms, including minimally-invasive treatments. Dr. Lu received his medical degree from Louisiana State University. He went on to complete orthopedic surgery residencies at Louisiana State University and University of Colorado. He also completed an orthopedic and neurological spine fellowship at Rocky Mountain Spine Clinic. He is a member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and the North American Spine Society. The MultiCare Orthopedic & Sports Medicine program has specialists from Covington to Tacoma to Puyallup. This program consists of specialists who provide surgical and non-surgical options in a team approach to treating the patient. Access to state-of-the-art technology allows patients to have quick diagnoses and treatment to get them back to daily life activities quickly. To make an appointment with Dr. Lu, please call MultiCare Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at 235.446.0750. Media Contact:Jennifer AalgaardPhone: 253.219.1715Email: jennifer.aalgaard@multicare.org /tacomageneral/news/106 COVINGTON, WA- Michael Han, MD, has joined the MultiCare Orthopedics and Sports Medicine program in Covington. Dr. Han is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who is also fellowship trained in sports medicine. His special interests include arthroscopic knee and shoulder surgery and total joint arthroplasty. Both arthroscopic and arthroplasty procedures are types of minimally invasive surgery that requires small incisions and allow for quicker healing and better outcomes. Dr. Han received his medical training at Stanford University. He went on to complete his internship and residency at the University of California, San Francisco, and fellowship in Sports Medicine at the Lake Tahoe Orthopaedic Institute. He is board certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery and a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and Arthroscopy Association of North America. The MultiCare Orthopedic & Sports Medicine program has specialists from Covington to Tacoma to Puyallup. This program consists of specialists who provide surgical and non-surgical options in a team approach to treating the patient. Access to state-of-the-art technology allows patients to have quick diagnoses and treatment to get them back to daily life activities quickly. To make an appointment with Dr. Han, please call MultiCare Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at 235.372.7121. Media Contact:Jennifer AalgaardPhone: 253.219.1715Email: jennifer.aalgaard@multicare.org /tacomageneral/news/105 In May 2009 the Zach Lystedt Law went into effect in the state of Washington. This law requires that ALL student athletes with suspected head injuries be removed from play until cleared by a licensed health care provider trained in the evaluation and management of sports-related concussions.More information >>> /tacomageneral/news/103 TACOMA, WA– MultiCare will open a new pulmonology clinic Monday, August 3, 2009 that will include five experienced physicians familiar to Tacoma residents. MultiCare Pulmonary Associates will be located at 2121 South 19th Street in Tacoma. The physicians will provide patients with expert consultation, diagnostic and therapeutic services for a range of respiratory conditions. The new clinic number is (253) 301-6850. “It is such a privilege to have such a distinguished group of physicians joining MultiCare,” said Smokey Stover, MD, Senior Vice President, MultiCare Medical Associates. “These five physicians are well respected by both their patients and the medical community. They will add an important dimension of care to our system.” Joining MultiCare are James Kirsch, MD; Arthur Knodel, MD; Edward LeDoux, MD; John Rowlands, MD; and James Taylor, MD. James Kirsch, MD Dr. Kirsch attended the University of Washington Medical School. He performed his internship and residency at the University of Pittsburgh and completed his medical training in pulmonary and critical care at the University of California, Irvine. He is board certified in internal medicine, pulmonary disease and critical care medicine. Arthur Knodel, MD Dr. Knodel performed his medical training at the University of Washington. He performed his internship, residency and pulmonary fellowship at Madigan Army Medical Center near Tacoma. He is board certified in pulmonary disease, critical care medicine, internal medicine and sleep medicine. Edward LeDoux, MD Dr. LeDoux attended Oregon Health Sciences University, where he earned his medical degree and completed his internship and residency in internal medicine, and fellowship in pulmonary disease. He is board certified in internal medicine, pulmonary medicine and critical care. John Rowlands, MD Dr. Rowlands completed his medical training at the University of Washington. He performed his residency in internal medicine, and fellowship in pulmonary medicine, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona. He is board certified in internal medicine, pulmonary disease, critical care medicine and sleep medicine. James Taylor, MDDr. Taylor earned his medical degree from the University of California, San Francisco. He completed his residency in internal medicine at the University of Washington, and a fellowship in pulmonary and critical care medicine at Stanford University. He is board certified in internal medicine, pulmonary and critical care. Contact: Jennifer AalgaardPhone: 253.219.1715Email: jennifer.aalgaard@multicare.org /tacomageneral/news/104 PRESS RELEASEDATE: Monday, August 03, 2009Contact: Jennifer AalgaardPhone: 253.219.1715Email: jennifer.aalgaard@multicare.org MultiCare Breast Health Services Announces its Fourth Straight Year of Perfect Inspections PIERCE & SOUTH KING COUNTY, WA- MultiCare’s Breast Health services is pleased to announce that all three mammography sites (Gig Harbor, Auburn and Covington) passed their annual MQSA (Mammography Quality Standards Act)/FDA inspections with no deficiencies. This is the fourth year in a row for this achievement. The standards of MQSA require establishment and maintenance of a quality assurance and quality control programs at each facility to ensure the reliability, clarity, and accuracy of interpretation of mammograms and standards for appropriate radiation dose. Each site is responsible for the daily, weekly, monthly, semi-annual and annual quality control tests and is annually inspected by the FDA and a Medical Physicist. The U.S. Congress enacted MQSA in 1992 to ensure that all women have access to quality mammography for the detection of breast cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages. For more information on MQSA, visit http://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/MammographyQualityStandardsActandProgram/default.htm MORE ABOUT MULTICARE BREAST HEALTH PROGRAMS: MultiCare is the first health system in the South Puget Sound region to offer image-guided, stereotactic linear accelerator treatment, on the Varian® Trilogy System, for treating cancers and other appropriate conditions. Stereotactic radiosurgery is a form of radiation therapy that uses 3-D computer imaging to attack tumors and lesions with an extremely precise dose of radiation. Linear accelerators offer potential advantages to some patients over other stereotactic radiosurgery technologies such as the Gamma Knife, notably the ability to treat tumors throughout the entire body, not just those in the brain.These treatments include MammoSite RTS, SAVI (a Five-Day Radiation treatment), Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy and the Rapid Arc Radiotherapy Technology. For more information on these treatment options, visit multicare.org and click on the Cancer tab. /tacomageneral/news/102 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT:Todd Kelley (253) 403-1716 (TACOMA) – MultiCare Health System has been named one of the nation’s 100 Most Wired health systems and the 25 Most Wireless health systems, according to Hospital & Health Network magazine. MultiCare is one of the few health systems in the nation to have electronic health records and one of only two health systems in Western Washington to earn this distinction.The 100 Most Wired organizations are hospitals and health systems that scored the highest on a recent national survey of more than 1,300 hospitals and health systems. The survey measured the use of information technology in patient safety and quality; customer service; business process improvement; workforce management; and disaster readiness.The category, 25 Most Wireless, recognizes health care organizations that focus on the use of wireless applications in clinical settings. “MultiCare’s vision of the ideal patient experience is to create a seamless, easy, valued, and sustainable continuum of health care,” said Florence Chang, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer. “Technology is one of the key strategies that we use to fulfill that vision. Investing in these technologies provides safer and more convenient care for our patients.” Eleven 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. Called MultiCare Connect, the system allows immediate, secure access to a single, comprehensive health record each time a patient visits a MultiCare facility. 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 clinics in East Pierce County also implemented MultiCare Connect in 2008. Good Samaritan Hospital will add this health information technology with the opening of the new Patient Care Tower in 2011. MultiCare has earned other distinctions recently for health information technology. In 2008, MultiCare Health System President and Chief Executive Officer Diane Cecchettini, RN, received the CEO IT Achievement Award from Modern Healthcare Magazine and the Healthcare Information and Management System Society (HIMSS). The award recognizes healthcare CEOs who demonstrate leadership and a commitment to using information technology to advance their organizations’ goals. Ms. Cecchettini was only one of three CEOs nationally to receive the recognition and the only CEO in Washington State. ### 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. /tacomageneral/news/99 MultiCare recently launched a mobile version of the MultiCare website. The mobile site is designed to present relevant and just-in-time info to a growing audience of mobile device users. Users will find easy access to phone numbers, maps and directions for hospitals, clinics and urgent cares. News items, calendar of events and find a doctor features are also available on the mobile site. For more information, visit http://m.multicare.org. /tacomageneral/news/101 As part of our ongoing effort to bring trustworthy health information to our community, MultiCare is pleased to launch our new Health e-Newsletter.Our Health e-newsletter is customizable, allowing you to choose from 11 topics including heart health, diabetes, nutrition and fitness, cancer, children and parenting, and women\'s health. Each month you will receive a mix of timely news items, in-depth stories and basic information about each of the topics you\'ve selected. It also features information about MultiCare events and services related to the topics you have chosen.Finding reliable health care information online doesn\'t have to be a challenge. Our e-newsletter brings information you can trust directly to your inbox. We\'re pleased to be able to offer this free resource to the community.Sign up today. /tacomageneral/news/98 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEDATE: Tuesday, June 16, 2009Contact: Jennifer AalgaardPhone: 253.219.1715Email: jennifer.aalgaard@goodsamhealth.org MultiCare Awarded for Managing Low Risk Chest Pain Patients Qualis Award given for improving patient care and decreasing hospital admissions TACOMA, WA- MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital has earned the 2009 Award of Excellence in Healthcare Quality from Qualis Health, a national health care quality improvement program. The award was given for work with patients suffering from low-risk chest pain in the emergency department to prevent potentially unnecessary hospitalizations. In 2006, the Tacoma General team formed the Low-Risk Chest Pain Task Force. Noting the need to decrease these often unnecessary and costly hospitalizations, this team addressed the best approach for evaluating patients suffering from chest pain that did not pose an imminent health threat. Based on the task force’s recommendations, a simple treadmill stress-test system was placed in the emergency department and nurses were trained to perform the tests. As a result, hospital admissions for patients with low-risk chest pain have decreased for the first time since 2004, and nearly 250 stress tests have been performed in the emergency department prior to patient discharge. Qualis has recognized MultiCare Tacoma General for excellence in cardiac care previously. In 2006, MultiCare was also awarded the 2006 Award of Excellence in Healthcare Quality. The award was given for groundbreaking work in treating heart attack patients. The MultiCare team developed a unique way to respond to patients experiencing a cardiac emergency when they arrive at the hospital. The life-saving intervention provides fast heart attack treatment to minimize damage to the heart muscle. In November 2008, with the opening of the Tacoma General Heart Hospital, MultiCare became the first health system in Washington State to embrace a national trend of expanding cardiac services and bringing them into a single, comprehensive center of care. The Tacoma General Heart Hospital provides more beds and more capacity for cardiac care. It is home to the highest level of cardiovascular care available in the region and combined Tacoma General’s cardiac services under one roof, including cardiac & vascular operating suites, cardiac catheterization labs, cardiovascular intensive care, coronary care units and a chest pain cardiovascular short stay unit. The Tacoma General Heart Hospital also houses all cardiac diagnostic, rehabilitation and prevention programs, including a heart failure clinic. ### 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. About Qualis HealthQualis Health is dedicated to generating, applying, and disseminating knowledge to improve the quality of healthcare delivery and health outcomes. In operation since 1974, the non-profit, healthcare quality improvement organization (QIO) is headquartered in Seattle, Washington and has offices in Alaska, Idaho, and California. More information can be found at www.qualishealth.org /tacomageneral/news/97 (TACOMA) – According to readers of South Sound Magazine, MultiCare is “best” in several categories, including Best Hospital, Best Place to Have a Baby, Best Large Business and Best Doctor. In a recent South Sound Magazine poll, readers responded with their personal “favorites” of the South Sound, including restaurants, music venues and a wide variety of other categories. MultiCare earned Best Large Business, while Tacoma General Hospital earned Best Hospital and Best Place to Have a Baby. Cynthia Edwards, MD, a doctor with MultiCare Medical Associates, took Best Doctor honors, according to the readers. This is the first-ever reader’s poll for South Sound Magazine. They will perform the poll annually. For more information, go to www.southsoundmag.com and click on “The Best of the South Sound.” ### 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. /tacomageneral/news/95 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEPatients throughout Pierce and South King counties may now access their own personal medical information online through MultiCare’s My Chart, a secure web portal provided free of charge. Patients can enroll in the secure online system and book appointments, request prescription refills and view personal medical information including lab results, imaging results and immunization records at anytime via the Internet. My Chart, formerly known as My MultiCare, now provides enhanced access to personal medical information. New additions to My Chart include proxy access, which enables parents, guardians and other caregivers to request a referral, pay a bill online, print wallet cards, schedule appointments and receive important reminders on behalf of their children or someone under their care. All MultiCare primary care providers and various community providers are now participating in the online system. Primary care providers in East Pierce County are the newest providers to offer this service. Patients interested in signing up for My Chart may request an access code at multicare.org, a MultiCare clinic office, Urgent Care Center or can request an authorization form by mail. “Technology is making it easier than ever before to actively participate in our healthcare,” said Elizabeth Neuhalfen, MD, primary care provider at the MultiCare Eatonville clinic. “My Chart, allows patients to easily and securely obtain information about their medical visits and request services online. This not only adds efficiencies to providing care in our clinics, but, more importantly, creates conveniences for our patients.” My Chart is a component of MultiCare Connect, a single, electronic health records system within the clinics and hospitals of the MultiCare Health System. This system allows immediate, secure access to a single, comprehensive health record each time a patient visits a MultiCare hospital or doctor. With MultiCare Connect in place, MultiCare is one of only a few health systems in the nation to implement a comprehensive electronic health records system. ### 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. /tacomageneral/news/83 The Nalley Valley Viaduct is the major connection between Interstate 5 and State Route 16 in Tacoma. Many of MultiCare’s patients use this route to access MultiCare’s services, especially Allenmore Hospital The Washington State Department of Transportation has begun a Nalley Valley viaduct replacement project that will affect traffic on the interchange for the next few years. Effective June 1, 2009, the Sprague Avenue Exit will be closed to all traffic. For more information on the project and its impacts on traffic, visit the WSDOT project website: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/PierceCountyHOV/SR16_WBNalleyValley/ Accessing Allenmore Hospital: Access to Allenmore Hospital is easiest from the Union Avenue exit for both westbound and eastbound traffic on State Route 16. When exiting SR 16 westbound, turn right on Union Ave. When exiting eastbound, turn left on Union Ave. Proceed north and turn right on South 19th Street. Allenmore Hospital is on the right side of South 19th Street. Eastbound traffic from Gig Harbor and the Key Peninsula can also use the 19th Street-Eastbound exit. Proceed east on 19th Street for one mile. Allenmore Hospital will be on the right just past the intersection of 19th & Union. Accessing Tacoma General Hospital and Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital: For traffic approaching Tacoma from the south, simply stay on Interstate 5, take exit 133 to Interstate 705-City Center. Follow signs to Schuster Parkway, then to Stadium Way. Turn right on Stadium and go up the hill. At the top, turn left on Division Ave. Proceed ½ mile and the hospitals are on the right. Click here for a printable map with directions. /tacomageneral/news/96 CALL TO ARTISTS:MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital Welcomes Art Submissions for New Patient Care Tower PUYALLUP, WA- MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital welcomes artists from Washington and Oregon to submit work to be considered for purchase and placement in the hospital’s new Patient Care Tower. The Tower, which features a new Emergency Department, Surgery suites, Imaging and private patient rooms, is set to open in early 2011. MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital is reviewing artist’s work to be considered for purchase for display in common indoor and outdoor locations. All qualified submissions must be sent to MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital Art Consultant Ginny Scalzo, at ARTERRA in Bellevue, WA. Eligibility Artists must reside in the state of Washington or Oregon. Criteria for selection will be based on the artist’s ability to demonstrate creation of work appropriate for healthcare facilities. MediumOutdoor sculpture for gardens – no nudity. Artist should be able to demonstrate experience in large scale commissions and installations. Materials should be appropriate for long-term installation in all weather conditions. Indoor Paintings, Mixed Media, Other – Artist must demonstrate experience with larger scale images; minimum of 48” x 40” if paintings or mixed media, or smaller works in a series will also be considered. Subject matter to be suitable for a healthcare environment. No nudity. Submission Format Should Include All submissions should be sent on a CD in JPEG format. Digital file size of each image should be 72 dpi, approximately 1024 x 768 pixels (no more than 1 MB) on a CD only. Include your name and title or image number on each image. Also include a separate printed page of thumbnails for all submitted entries. Printed photos or gallery cards may also be included as additional items. No slides will be accepted. A professional bio and/or artist statement. Each artist may submit up to 25 images for review. Additional images may be requested if the artist is selected. A retail price list for sculpture or unframed work. All submittals must include a self- addressed stamped envelope for return of all images. Submissions received without a self-addressed stamped envelope will be discarded after review process. Although care will be exercised in the treatment of the information received, ARTERRA is not held responsible for any damage or loss of submitted materials held for review. Do not send registered or certified mail. No images may be submitted electronically. Artists of interest will be contacted by Art Consultant Ginny Scalzo from ARTERRA. Please include a contact e-mail and phone number so that she may contact you if further information is needed. All submittals must be received by June 1st, 2009. Submit images c/o:Ginny ScalzoARTERRA1750 124th Avenue NE, Suite ABellevue, WA 98005 /tacomageneral/news/94 PIERCE COUNTY, WA - Staff and Administrators of MultiCare are please to announce that John Van Buskirk, DO was recently recognized as the 2009 Home Care Association of Washington’s (HCAW) Physician of the Year. Dr. Van Buskirk was nominated by MultiCare•Good Samaritan Home Health and Hospice: “When Dr. John Van Buskirk accepted the job of part-time Hospice Director at MultiCare•Good Samaritan Home Health and Hospice a little over six years ago, no one anticipated where the journey would take him. From the beginning, John’s message and spirit was one of collaboration. Rather than coming in as an expert, John arrived as a member of the team. Since the team has doubled in size, bringing new challenges and opportunities, Dr. Van Buskirk remains the calm center. MultiCare•Good Samaritan Hospice has grown in patient numbers, community reputation, and staff ability since Dr. Van Buskirk became Medical Director.” “What better way of bringing visibility to home care than shining a spotlight on the individuals who are helping to change the world – one patient at a time.” About Home Care Association of Washington The Home Care Association of Washington (HCAW was established in 1968. HCAW Members include Home Health, Home Care, Hospice, and Hospice Care Centers and provide an array of health-related services. /tacomageneral/news/91 Latest Updates from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC): Click here for the latest from the CDC: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/whatsnew.htmHospital Visitation:Please click here for an important message from MultiCare Health System regarding visiting our hospitals during the H1N1 flu outbreak.If you are a care provider or employee, please stay home if you exhibiting any symptoms.Preventing the spread of the disease:-Stay home if you’re sick-Cover your cough or when you sneeze -Wash hands frequently -In work areas, disinfect frequently -Take care of yourself: keep hydrated and get rest -Contact your physician if you have questions or feel ill -Stay tuned with updates on MHSnetH1N1 symptoms include:-Fever-Headaches -Muscle aches -Chills -Extreme tiredness -Dry cough -Runny nose -In some cases, vomiting and diarrhea H1N1 flu can be contagious up to at least seven days. Please stay home during this time. Also, because it’s contagious via person-to-person contact and droplets, do not share cups, food, eating utensils, and more. When to seek emergency care: -Has difficulty breathing or chest pain-Has purple or blue discoloration of the lips-Has vomiting and unable to keep liquids down-Has as signs of dehydration such as dizziness when standing, absence of urination, or in infants, a lack of tears when they cry-Has seizures (for example, uncontrolled convulsions)-Is less responsive than normal or becomes confusedAdditional Resources: http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance_homecare.htmH1N1 (Swine) Flu Fact SheetPrevention TipsMHS Protocol World Health Organization: http://www.who.int/en/ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/general_info.htm Tacoma-Pierce County Health Dept: http://www.tpchd.org/news.php?id=407 /tacomageneral/news/93 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:Todd Kelley (253) 403-1716Jennifer Aalgaard (253) 219-1715 (PIERCE COUNTY) – MultiCare Health System has won two prestigious Health Care Champions Awards from The Business Examiner newspaper, the South Sound business information resource. MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital won the Emergency Services Award for their partnership with the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) agencies that serve East Pierce County. As a county EMS base station, Good Samaritan Hospital’s physicians and nurses provide guidance to EMS providers in the field when necessary. Local EMS agencies and Good Samaritan Hospital devised a new way to communicate about incoming heart attack patients. EMS agencies are able to request activation of the cardiac catheterization lab for patients suffering a heart attack in the field. Through a combination of the paramedic’s clinical judgment and the use of bluetooth and cellular technologies, the decision can be made to alert the cardiologist and cath lab team while the patient is still being transported to the emergency department, allowing for quicker transition to the cardiac cath lab where life saving procedures can be performed. The Military Award was given to the MultiCare Neuroscience Rehabilitation Vestibular and Balance Program for an informal partnership with Madigan Army Medical Center (MAMC). This partnership provides evaluation and treatment of soldiers and their families with balance injuries from trauma or disease. Many soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan who have been injured or exposed to high intensity explosions can suffer from Mild Traumatic Brain Injury, or MTBI. No similar service is available at MAMC or other military bases, so these patients have been cared for by civilian providers at MultiCare. In addition to the awards, MultiCare also garnered honorable mention in these and other categories: · Karen Lynch, RN, was honorably mentioned in the Distinguished Service category for her nearly 52 years of service to Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital and the MultiCare Health System. · Good Samaritan Hospital was noted for its partnership with the 8th Squadron, 1st Calvary Regiment at Fort Lewis. · Mary Bridge Pediatric Heart Center was mentioned for its partnership with the Tacoma General Hospital Women & Newborn Services in an effort to screen all newborns for congenital heart defects. The awards ceremony will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2009 at Tacoma’s Museum of Glass. For more information on the awards and the ceremony, go to www.businessexaminer.com. ### 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. /tacomageneral/news/86 PRESS RELEASEFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEDATE: Tuesday, March 10, 2009 Contact:Jennifer Aalgaard, 253.219.1715jennifer.aalgaard@goodsamhealth.org PIERCE COUNTY, WA- The passage of Initiative 1000, the “Washington State Death with Dignity Act”, has raised many questions for physicians, pharmacists, counselors and hospital staff statewide. MultiCare Health System recognizes patient and physician autonomy in making health care decisions. MultiCare has discussed I-1000 internally and has chosen not to prohibit individual physicians from engaging in actions under I-1000 within their physician practices and offices. It is both a provider and a patient choice as to whether to participate in I-1000 activities. However, MultiCare has decided that patients admitted to our acute care facilities; Allenmore, Tacoma General and Good Samaritan Hospitals, who might otherwise be “qualified patients” under I-1000, should not ingest life-ending medications within those facilities. Due to the right for any health care provider to opt-out of participating in I-1000, our hospitals are not able to logistically provide staffing should a patient elect to participate. No MultiCare staff will be required to participate in any activities related to I-1000. MultiCare will work with its entire care team to ensure that all patients are fully informed of their rights and options available to them as they relate to end-stage disease and care management. Where appropriate, referrals to other community providers will be made if requested by patients whose needs cannot be met within MultiCare Health System. /tacomageneral/news/84 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT:Todd Kelley (253) 403-1716 (TACOMA) – MultiCare Health System President & CEO Diane Cecchettini, RN, has been named Outstanding Health Care Executive, Metropolitan Division, by Seattle Business magazine. The honor was given to Diane at the “Leaders in Health Care” awards dinner on February 26. Diane was nominated by the MultiCare Health System Board of Directors for her visionary leadership and dedication to patient care. Under her leadership, MultiCare has grown to become the largest health system in the south Puget Sound and the largest private employer in Pierce County with more than 8,500 employees. “MultiCare owes much of its success to Diane’s leadership and skill,” said Lois Bernstein, Senior Vice President of Community Services for MultiCare. “She is a skilled and gifted leader who deserves recognition for her dedication to MultiCare and the patients we serve.” Diane’s leadership has had a significant effect on how care is delivered in the South Sound and throughout the state. She advocated for MultiCare to become an early adopter of an electronic health record system for its promise of improving care. Today, MultiCare is a national leader in the integration of electronic health records across inpatient and outpatient settings. This effort earned her another honor from Modern Healthcare magazine with the 2008 CEO IT Achievement Award. She was only one of three CEOs nationally to win the award and the only in Washington State. Diane has also been a health care industry champion. She served two terms as Chair of the Washington State Hospital Association (WSHA). During her term, WSHA launched a program to help hospitals improve patient safety by supporting adoption of evidence-based protocols that have been proven to save lives. At WSHA, she also founded and chaired the Patient Safety Sub-Committee, which helped expand its mission beyond policy advocacy to include patient safety advocacy. Diane was also pivotal in achieving participation by all Washington State hospitals in the national Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) 100K Lives Campaign. Diane’s influence resulted in quality improvements across the state and even the nation, as other hospitals have followed Washington’s lead. Diane has also personally served on a number of health care and mission-related community Boards and Committees, including the VHA Health Foundation, First Choice Health Network, American Organization of Nurse Executives, and Tacoma Trauma Trust Board. Recently, Diane has led the MRSA Community Initiative, which brings MultiCare together with public health and other health systems in setting industry-leading standards for treating and tracking Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus infections in the community and in the health care setting. ### 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. /tacomageneral/news/82 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT:Todd Kelley (253) 403-1716Jennifer Aalgaard (253) 219-1715 (TACOMA) -- Tacoma General Hospital and Good Samaritan Hospital in Puyallup, both part of MultiCare Health System, will be lined with red lights in support of Go Red For Women during the month of February. MultiCare Health System is the exclusive partner of the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement in the south Puget Sound. This partnership gives women the tools and knowledge they need to reduce their risk of heart disease and stroke. MultiCare, in partnership with the American Heart Association, will host the Go Red For Women Rally at South Hill Mall in Puyallup on February 6 to help women understand why heart disease is the biggest threat to their health, and how they can minimize their risk. The Go Red For Women Rally also features an educational talk by cardiologist Dr. Uma Krishnan, a special appearance by Puyallup Mayor Don Malloy, cholesterol checks, free glucose and blood pressure screenings, and prize giveaways. Tracy Taylor, radio host on Q Country 102.9 FM, will emcee. The event is free and open to the public, and begins at 10 a.m. For more information about Go Red For Women in Pierce County, visit www.PierceCountyGoesRed.org or call the American Heart Association at (253) 272-7854. To schedule a Women’s Heart Advantage risk assessment at MultiCare or to register for the Go Red Forum, please call 1-800-342-9919 or go to www.multicare.org. ### About MultiCareMultiCare 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. /tacomageneral/news/81 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACTS:Todd Kelley, MultiCare Health System(253) 403-1716 Jennifer Aalgaard, Good Samaritan Hospital(253) 697-2029 (TACOMA) -- MultiCare Health System is now sixth nationally on an annual listing of integrated health networks (IHN), as compiled by SDI (formerly Verispan). Five Pacific Northwest health systems made the list, with MultiCare attaining the highest spot. The 2009 Top 100 IHN listing ranks local and regional networks across the United States that meet critical success factors. The rating evaluates each network\'s ability to operate as a unified organization in each of eight categories: integration, integrated technology, services and access, financial stability, hospital utilization, outpatient utilization, physicians and contractual capabilities. This is the seventh consecutive year MultiCare has ranked in the Top 100, more than any other integrated health network in Washington State. “For MultiCare to achieve another rise in the rankings is a real credit to those who have worked so hard to make MultiCare the provider of choice for residents in the South Puget Sound,” said Good Samaritan President John Long. “The hallmarks of this strong showing are unwavering commitment to quality patient care and strong financial performance.” MultiCare has been steadily rising in the Top 100 IHN listing. In 2008, MultiCare jumped from 56th to eighth on the list, due in large part to the ongoing integration of electronic health records across the system and the affiliation with Good Samaritan Community Healthcare. The affiliation with MultiCare gave Good Samaritan the surge of support needed to continue its goal of becoming the regional medical center of choice for east Pierce County. With recent program and facility expansions in areas such as cardiac care and the $400 million campus re-development, Good Samaritan will achieve its goal with the completion of a new Patient Care Tower in 2011. MultiCare also continues to integrate electronic health records (EHR) within the clinics and hospitals. This has made MultiCare one of few health systems in the nation to implement a comprehensive electronic health records system. 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. The Good Samaritan clinics recently were added to this system and it will be integrated at Good Samaritan Hospital with the opening of the new Patient Care Tower. Most recently, MultiCare and Good Samaritan integrated the home health & hospice services, becoming MultiCare•Good Samaritan Home Health & Hospice with an ability to provide coordinated services throughout Pierce and South King Counties. MultiCare also recently opened an Ambulatory Surgery Clinic and a new radiation oncology system in Gig Harbor, further integrating outpatient services and making care more available to the community. ### 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. About SDIOn July 29th, 2008, Verispan, LLC was acquired by SDI. Since 1982, SDI has been delivering innovative healthcare data products and analytic services to the pharmaceutical, biotech, healthcare, medical device, financial services, and consumer packaged goods industries. SDI is the leading provider of de-identified patient-level data analytics and offers a broad array of solutions and insights across the continuum of care. These include custom and syndicated patient-level data studies; localized disease and treatment surveillance and projection; market research audits; healthcare profiles; comprehensive managed care offerings; clinical trial optimization; direct-to-patient pharmacy programs; marketing effectiveness; sales targeting and compensation products; data integration, warehousing, and mining; list services; and direct marketing services. Its current roster includes the top 50 pharmaceutical/biotech companies. /tacomageneral/news/74 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT:Todd Kelley (253) 403-1716 (TACOMA) – Cathy J. Brewis has joined the MultiCare Office of Philanthropy as Manager of Grants & Corporate Relations. Brewis joins MultiCare from The News Tribune, where she provided staff support and executive leadership in market research, marketing and event management, display and classified advertising, executive management, human resources and community relations. She joined The News Tribune in 1971 as a research clerk and is a University of Puget Sound graduate. Brewis has also served in a variety of community volunteer and leadership capacities. She has chaired the boards of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce, YWCA of Pierce County, Tacoma Community House, RAGS, the University of Puget Sound Alumni Board and Peninsula Child Care, and has served as a volunteer for many other organizations. “I have found MultiCare to be a fascinating, diverse, welcoming organization,” Brewis said. “It will be challenging and rewarding to enhance the work of MultiCare in our community and region.” As Manager of Grants & Corporate Relations, Brewis will oversee grant writing efforts and managing corporate donor relationships. ### 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. /tacomageneral/news/73 UPDATED: Tuesday, December 23, 2008, 9:35 p.m. The National Weather Service in Seattle has issued another Winter Storm Warning for lowland snow in Western Washington, especially on hills above 500 to 1,000 ft. in elevation. Snow continues to be expected after midnight tonight and continue into the morning hours. Snow will be light at first and become heavy in the morning hours. It will change over to rain/snow mix mid-day in the lowlands and freeze Wednesday evening into Thursday. There will be another round of snow on Christmas Day, which will then be followed by warmer weather by Saturday. If any additional closures or changes occur, or if any services are impacted, updates will be posted on our Internet site at www.multicare.org, on MHSnet, sent via e-mail and on the Emergency Preparedness Hotline at (253) 403-8677. Attendance and snow policies are posted on MHSnet. MultiCare policy indicates that employees should make every attempt to report for their shifts and employees should stay at work until their relief arrives. We have no information at this time if the 4X4 group will be available to provide rides for essential staff. Thank you, Todd Kelley & Jennifer AalgaardMHS EOC PIO & GSH EOC PIO /tacomageneral/news/77 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Todd Kelley (253) 403-1716 (TACOMA) – \"Tree House: A Place For Families\" is about to be a reality and will provide much-needed housing near Tacoma General Hospital and Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital for parents of hospitalized infants and children. Currently, there are only 12 units nearby for parents and families, with demand far outstripping the availability. With \"Tree House,\" there will eventually be 42 parent apartment units available. Major funding for \"Tree House\" has been provided by the Mary Bridge Festival of Trees volunteers, patrons, attendees and its sponsor businesses over a three year period, raising more than $3 million for the cause. The area businesses that sponsored the Festival of Trees made the \"Tree House\" funding a success. These companies include Associated Petroleum Products, Rainier Pacific, TOTE, the Puyallup Tribe of Indians-Emerald Queen Hotel and Casinos, Propel Insurance and Unigard Insurance Group. \"Despite the economic downturn, the Festival of Trees sponsor businesses stepped up this year to support this great cause,\" said Sara Long, Vice President of Philanthropy at MultiCare Health System, \"These companies saw the importance and urgency of providing support for families of hospitalized children.\" \"Tree House\" units are private, with apartment amenities. The new facility will include private apartments equipped with two queen beds, a private bathroom, a television and a mini refrigerator. The facility will also include common living spaces, a quiet room, a multipurpose meeting room, an outdoor play area and laundry facilities. A communal kitchen will be available for families to prepare their own meals, as well as for volunteers from the community to provide meals for families. A playroom for siblings as well as a media room will invite social opportunities for families. Meeting rooms will be available to enable families to take advantage of services through the hospitals, such as the social work department. It is expected that the close connection will open up possibilities for support groups and counseling that are not currently available. \"Tree House truly would not have been possible without the support of our community – and our sponsor businesses,\" Long added. ### 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 /tacomageneral/news/71 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContacts:Todd Kelley, MultiCare Health System(253) 403-1716todd.kelley@multicare.org TACOMA, Wash. –MultiCare Regional Cancer Center at Tacoma General Hospital is one of the first facilities in the Pacific Northwest to offer a more individualized five-day course of radiation treatment for early-stage breast cancer. This sophisticated new radiation treatment with the SAVI™ applicator expands treatment options for most women with early-stage breast cancer. Now the majority of women who qualify for partial breast radiation can be treated with the SAVI applicator. Partial breast radiation is a short, five-day course of radiation therapy given after a lumpectomy. SAVI delivers a form of partial breast radiation known as breast brachytherapy, which targets the tumor site from inside the breast. SAVI is the only single-entry device that contours the radiation dose specifically to the patient’s individual anatomy. Its design overcomes the limitations of older brachytherapy techniques, such as balloon brachytherapy. “I use SAVI for the majority of my patients who are candidates for partial breast radiation,” said breast surgeon Lynne Clark, M.D., the first surgeon in Washington to utilize the device. “We can offer this choice to women who would not otherwise qualify for brachytherapy and better individualize treatment for each patient.” Breast brachytherapy typically involves two treatments per day for only five days. This approach is much more convenient than traditional, external-beam radiation treatment, which takes six to seven weeks. Breast brachytherapy with SAVI also minimizes radiation exposure of healthy tissue. That reduces the risk of exposing critical structures such as the skin, heart, and lungs to radiation. “This new device does most everything balloon brachytherapy can do and more. It enables us to provide better treatment to many of our breast-cancer patients,” said Carolyn Rutter, M.D., a radiation oncologist at MultiCare. “SAVI allows us to tailor radiation to the patient’s anatomy. That can potentially reduce side effects that may be associated with radiation therapy.” Breast brachytherapy is used as part of breast-conservation therapy, which includes lumpectomy – the surgical removal of the cancerous tissue within the breast plus tissue immediately around the tumor – followed by radiation. This approach is an alternative to mastectomy, which removes the breast and is often followed by breast reconstruction. MultiCare offers comprehensive breast health services – from education, prevention and screening programs to advanced diagnostics, treatment and support. The system’s breast-imaging capabilities include digital mammography, enabling earlier detection that is the key in fighting the disease. Breast cancer treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and targeted drug therapy. MultiCare also offers complementary therapies such as nutritional therapy, physical therapy and emotional counseling. MultiCare Regional Cancer Center is also the exclusive south Sound network affiliate of the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. For more information, go to www.multicare.org and click on “cancer.” ### 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. /tacomageneral/news/67 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT:Todd Kelley (253) 403-1716 (TACOMA) – MultiCare Health System has won the “Distinction Award for Best Overall Website for a Healthcare System” from eHealthcare Strategy & Trends, the premiere national organization that focuses on the ways leading-edge healthcare organizations use the Internet and technology to achieve their objectives. MultiCare’s website, www.multicare.org, was judged by a panel of 114 professionals in the health care industry on more than 60 factors. Factors considered in the judging include delivery of strong health content, interactivity, medical care support, integration with the organization\'s operations, as well as strength of Web design and ease of navigation. MultiCare was awarded the honor from more than 1,100 entries. Earlier this year, MultiCare and Tacoma-based SiteCrafting created a new website to enhance ease of use and added several new features. “This award is a true team effort,” said MultiCare Webmaster Angela Gow. “The entire Marketing team at MultiCare and the experts at SiteCrafting and DNA really pulled together to create a website that is user-friendly and informative.” The award was given at the 12th Annual eHealthcare Leadership Awards on November 11 in Orlando, Florida. ### 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. /tacomageneral/news/66 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT:Todd Kelley (253) 403-1716 (TACOMA) – The American College of Physicians has named MultiCare’s David Chen, MD, as one of the nation’s top hospitalists. Hospitalist physicians work strictly in a hospital setting and provide general medical care for hospitalized patients. At MultiCare, they are employed members of the medical staff and serve patients at Tacoma General Hospital, Allenmore Hospital and Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital. Dr. Chen was one of 10 physicians nationally to receive the honor. He was nominated for the award by his peers in the MultiCare Inpatient Service, a group of physician hospitalists. Dr. Chen serves as the medical director of the Tacoma General Allenmore Hospitalist Group. Three of Dr. Chen’s peers at MultiCare Health System nominated him for the award and all three told of the importance he places on maintaining physician satisfaction. In the past six years, the program has experienced only a 3% turnover. “Dr. Chen has been an incredible advocate for our hospital-employed group in many areas including scheduling, salary and self-determination,” wrote Mary O’Rourke, MD, in her nominating statement. “He sees physician satisfaction as a critical part of his job.” In addition to serving as medical director, Dr. Chen still serves in a direct patient care role. “I think it extremely important that hospitalist directors also do clinical care because I experience the same things they do,” Chen said. ### 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. /tacomageneral/news/68 MultiCare First in Area to Embrace National Trend in Cardiac Care New Heart & Vascular Center Unveiled to the Community on November 15 (TACOMA) – MultiCare will soon become the first health system in Washington State to embrace a national trend of expanding cardiac services and bringing them into a single, comprehensive center of care. The Tacoma General Heart Hospital will expand to provide more beds and more capacity for cardiac care. It will be home to the highest level of cardiovascular care available in the region and will combine Tacoma General’s cardiac services under one roof, including cardiac & vascular operating suites, cardiac catheterization labs, cardiovascular intensive care, coronary care units and a chest pain cardiovascular short stay unit. The Tacoma General Heart Hospital will also house all cardiac diagnostic, rehabilitation and prevention programs, including a heart failure clinic. “The idea behind the Tacoma General Heart Hospital is to make the care experience as comfortable and convenient for patients as possible,” said Tacoma General Heart Hospital Medical Director Allen Graeve, MD. “Having prevention, diagnostic and treatment services under one roof is a national trend and enables a comprehensive, team approach to heart care.” Studies show there is a connection between the patient’s care environment and healing. The new patient rooms are designed to enhance wellness, recovery, safety and efficiency. The rooms are much larger than the typical patient room, accommodating friends and family, even providing space for a sleeper sofa, so loved ones can stay overnight. The rooms are also equipped with natural light, which has been proven to aid in healing and recovery. “We wanted to provide the community a single, comprehensive and nurturing source for their cardiac needs,” said Christi McCarren, Administrator of the Tacoma General Heart Hospital. “We will provide them with a combination of the comforts and leading edge innovations they need for their heart care.” For more information on the Tacoma General Heart Hospital, go to www.multicare.org/heart. ### 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. /tacomageneral/news/62 Click on the links below to watch the Good Samaritan Hospital Patient Care Tower and the Tacoma General/Mary Bridge Emergency Department grow! The projects will be completed in 2010. Good Samaritan Patient Care Tower: http://oxblue.com/pro/open/goodsamhealth/patientcaretower Tacoma General-Mary Bridge Emergency Department: http://oxblue.com/pro/open/multicare/tacomageneral /tacomageneral/news/60 KOMO-TV recently came to Tacoma General Hospital to see the use of the Varian Trilogy Linear Accelerator, which has recently been equipped with Rapid Arc technology. This enables physicians to target a tumor with such accuracy; it doesn’t damage surrounding tissue, eliminating the side effects of radiation treatment. It has also reduced the time of treatment from 25-30 minutes to as little as 90 seconds, minimizing discomfort for the patient. Tacoma General is only one of eight centers in the country using this system and is the only using it for a variety of diagnoses. Other centers are using it mostly for prostate treatments. Watch the story at: http://www.komonews.com/news/health/31773639.html The story originally aired on Tuesday, October 21. Since then, it was picked up by the ABC network and made available to its affiliate stations nationwide. It was picked up by CBS and Fox and made available for use on their affiliate stations. So far, the story has aired again on KOMO, plus 38 other television markets nationwide: Raleigh-Durham (Fayetteville), North CarolinaCalgary, AlbertaBillings. MontanaButte-Bozeman. MontanaHelena. MontanaNew Orleans. LouisianaEl Paso. TexasSouth Bend-Elkhart. IndianaKansas City. MissouriReno. NevadaSalt Lake City. UtahSan Antonio. TexasEugene. OregonPortland. OregonAugusta. GeorgiaGreenville-Spartanburg. South CarolinaAsheville. North Carolina-Anderson. South CarolinaJacksonville. FloridaWaco-Temple-Bryan. TexasCedar Rapids- Waterloo- Iowa City & Dubuque. IowaFt. Smith-Fayetteville-Springdale- Rogers, ArkansasAustin, TexasTallahassee, Florida- Thomasville, GeorgiaAlbany-Schenectady-Troy. New YorkPhiladelphia. PennsylvaniaChattanooga. TennesseeHarrisonburg. VirginiaMilwaukee. WisconsinColumbus. OhioRockford, Illinois /tacomageneral/news/61 In June 2008, Tacoma General Hospital became among the first hospitals in the nation to use the FDA approved Percutaneous Ventricular Assist Device (Impella 2.5), a mini pump that maintains cardiac circulation during high-risk procedures. A recent procedure was featured during the “Healthlink” portion of the KING 5 newscast on October 28. Click on the link to view the story. http://www.king5.com/health/stories/NW_102808HEB_small_heart_pump_LJ.15a0ac3c3.html /tacomageneral/news/52 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT:Todd Kelley (253) 403-1716 (TACOMA)--Area consumers have once again selected Tacoma General Hospital as the hospital they would choose for their health care. That’s the finding of National Research Corporation (NRC), which has honored Tacoma General with the 2008/09 Consumer Choice award.Tacoma General Hospital first received the distinction in 1996 and has won it 11 times since then.“The staff at Tacoma General Hospital deserves the credit for this award,” says Diane Cecchettini, RN, MultiCare Health System President & CEO. “Their hard work and commitment to quality patient care has been recognized by the patients they serve and by organizations that measure quality and efficiency. We’re proud of the entire MultiCare team, who consistently put patients first in the personal care they provide and the teamwork they demonstrate.”The National Research Corporation Consumer Choice Award reflects the views of over 200,000 households across the nation and is published in Modern Healthcare. Out of 3,200 hospitals nationwide, Tacoma General is one of only 226 hospitals to make the list. Based on the views of consumers, Tacoma General is a highly preferred health care provider for the Tacoma/Pierce County region. This award also indicates that Tacoma General has achieved a level of service that is valued by consumers in the community. It asked specific questions about which hospital has the best doctors, nurses, personalized care, community health programs and reputation. MultiCare is also listed nationally in the Top 100 Integrated Health Networks by Verispan, Inc. and has earned this distinction more than any other health system in Washington State. MultiCare has received several prestigious awards in recent years for the treatment of chest pains and stroke, significantly reducing the time of treatment. ### 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. /tacomageneral/news/51 PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE DATE: Wednesday, September 10th, 2008 Contact: Jennifer Aalgaard Phone: 253.219.1715 Email: jennifer.aalgaard@goodsamhealth.org Come See the da Vinci Robot at the Puyallup Fair with MultiCare PUYALLUP, WA- Do the Puyallup with MultiCare Health System on Friday and Saturday, September 19th and 20th, at the Puyallup Fair and see the da Vinci Surgical Robot. Dr. Douglas Sutherland and Dr. John Lenihan will be hosting talks on surgical procedures with the da Vinci Surgical System at the MultiCare Booth in the Pavilion. On Friday, 9/19, the talks will focus on gynecological procedures with Dr. Sutherland from 11 am-2 pm and Dr. Lenihan at 5 pm. On Saturday, 9/20, Dr. Sutherland will speak on prostate procedures from 11 am-2 pm and Dr. Lenihan will continue to speak on gynecological procedures at 3 pm and 5 pm. More on the da Vinci Surgical System Currently available at MultiCare Tacoma General and Allenmore Hospitals, the da Vinci Surgical System incorporates the latest advances in robotics and computer technology to enable surgeons to perform precise, minimally invasive gynecological and prostate, surgeries. Utilizing robotic technology, MultiCare surgeons are able to surgically treat cancers and other problems associated with prostate and gynecological issues with this innovative system. Surgeons direct three robotic arms that perform the surgery using a variety of tiny surgical instruments operating through small abdominal incisions. The surgeon commands the robot from a console that provides a three-dimensional image of the surgical area. Highly specialized hand controls allow the surgeon to make the most intricate maneuvers, which the robot replicates with its arms. The ends of the surgical instruments are modeled after the human wrist and give the surgeon a wide range of motion to work with, but in a smaller space. Because the process is much less invasive than traditional, open prostate and gynecological surgeries, patients experience less post-operative pain, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, less scarring, shorter urinary catheter time, improved potency and continence and a faster recovery for a return to normal activities. \"This technology offers all of the advantages of traditional laparoscopic procedures, but better enables the surgeon to be more precise in their approach,\" according to Douglas Sutherland, MD, urologic surgeon at Allenmore Hospital. \"Surgeons have the same access they would if they were making a large incision, but with the advantages of five small incisions. The robotic arms allow them to see, maneuver, and access difficult-to-reach areas and minimize peripheral tissue damage. And unlike the surgeon’s wrist, the robotic arm can move 360 degrees and get to places a surgeon’s hand can’t reach.\"   /tacomageneral/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 /tacomageneral/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. /tacomageneral/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. /tacomageneral/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. /tacomageneral/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. /tacomageneral/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. # # # /tacomageneral/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.\" /tacomageneral/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.