2021 Charitable Impact Report How your philanthropic investment in Banner Health makes life better in our communities
Health care made easier. Life made better. At Banner Health, we believe in a shared responsibility to improve the health and well-being of our communities. Our nonprofit mission is made possible by the unwavering support and commitment of our dedicated team members, physician partners, thousands of volunteers, and many cherished donors who so generously give of their time, talent and financial resources.
Two foundations support the work of Banner Health:
Established in 2001, the Banner Health Foundation secures and stewards charitable contributions to advance Banner Health’s mission, investing in facilities and programs that support advancements in care, research, medical education, patient services, and a variety of community programs.
Established in 2006, the Banner Alzheimer’s Foundation secures and stewards charitable gifts to advance the mission of the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, including groundbreaking research initiatives and pioneering prevention studies, family outreach, counseling, and support services.
Contributions from generous donors are invested locally to support patient care programs and services operated by Banner’s many hospitals and health care facilities across Arizona— improving the lives of millions of Arizonans every day. Since Banner Health’s inception in 1999, more than $265 million in charitable gifts have been invested in Banner Health services, facilities, and programs to meet the health needs of our diverse communities. Each year, Banner Health provides more than $700 million worth of community benefit, including some $100 million in charity care. Philanthropic support is vital to our nonprofit mission, allowing Banner Health to care for patients from all walks of life—regardless of their ability to pay—and to conduct groundbreaking research, educate and train tomorrow’s health care professionals, and offer many special services, community health education, and supportive resources. Thank you for your generous philanthropic support in 2021.
Banner Health Foundation and Banner Alzheimer’s Foundation are tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law, subject to individual limitations.
2021 Charitable Impact Report • 1
Dear Friends, Reflecting on the past two years brings a mix of emotions for most of us: exhaustion over the ongoing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on our lives, sadness for the many lives lost and families affected, hope for a future where we can return to normalcy, and joyful anticipation of the many activities we may resume in the months ahead. But the one feeling that comes to mind when we think about you, our donors and partners, is simple: gratitude. Simply put, thank you. Thank you for your support as nonprofit Banner Health and every professional on our front lines have navigated this unprecedented time in medicine. Thank you for supporting our COVID-19 Response in the earliest days of the pandemic and since then, investing in the healing and recovery of our health care professionals who have faced trauma, stress, and loss in epic proportion. Thank you for continuing to show up for cancer patients, those battling Alzheimer’s disease, sick children, and your neighbors from all walks of life who deserve quality health care. Thank you for joining with Banner Health to invest in the future of health care in and for Arizona. Your generosity and partnership help Banner Health deliver on its promise to provide compassionate, expert care for our communities. Your gifts support a wide range of patient care and community health programs, advance research initiatives, train tomorrow’s physicians and nurses, educate our community about disease prevention, safety, and healthy living, and make possible so many “extras” that make the hospital experience better for patients and their families. The stories on the following pages offer a glimpse of the many Banner Health programs and initiatives supported by your philanthropic investments in 2021, including a systemwide initiative aimed at supporting the mental and emotional health needs of our medical professionals. While this report showcases many promising initiatives across our vast health care system, there are more than 500 Banner Health programs and areas of care sustained and strengthened by your charitable gifts each and every year. Whatever you chose to support in 2021 and in the future, every dollar donated is being put to good use for the benefit of our patients and communities. We thank you, most sincerely, for your generosity, trust, and continued partnership. We look forward to a better year ahead and wish you and your loved ones good health. With gratitude,
Andy Kramer Petersen
Steven J. Hilton
President & CEO Banner Health Foundation Banner Alzheimer’s Foundation
2021 Impact:
10,674 Total Donors
Board Chairman Banner Health Foundation
$21,612,869 Total Contributed
$23,340,729
Total Distributed to Banner Health programs, medical centers, and community health services
$181,774,474
Total Assets of Banner Health Foundation & Banner Alzheimer’s Foundation
Charitable investment supports healing and recovery for health care workers 2021 arrived absent the sense of relief and celebration we all hoped the new year would bring. The viral pandemic that came to the United States in early 2020 stretched into the new year and remained with us in a pattern of unpredictable surges and declines. It has exacted a heavy toll on nearly every aspect of our lives. The pandemic prompted hospitals and health care systems, including Banner Health, to immediately deploy their emergency preparedness plans, shifting resources and implementing new protocols to safely care for patients with wide-ranging symptoms and complications of a disease novel to humans. At Banner Health, we adopted a saying, Banner Strong, to remind ourselves that we are strong together and we are here for one another, here for our patients, here for Arizona. At every turn, our health care professionals have been there for every patient in need of care. Physicians, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, medical assistants, respiratory therapists, and technicians have worked tirelessly on the front lines of the pandemic and across our health care system. Their heroism has been inspiring as they have selflessly risked their own health and safety, sacrificed family and personal time, and struggled through exhaustion, burnout, and post-traumatic stress. “At Banner Health, we are keenly focused on the healing and recovery of our valued health care professionals in the wake of this unprecedented time,” says Dr. Shiva Birdi, interim CEO for Banner Medical Group and a Banner Health Foundation board member. “We know that when our clinicians are at their best, life is better for everyone: our patients, our employees and their families, and our communities. We improve quality of care and the patient experience, increase productivity, reduce staff turnover, and lower costs. Collaboration and innovation shine, resulting in seamless processes, breakthrough treatments, and transformational care delivery.”
2021 Charitable Impact Report • 3
“We are keenly focused on the healing and recovery of our valued health care professionals in the wake of this unprecedented time…when our clinicians are at their best, life is better for everyone: our patients, our employees and their families, and our communities.” Shiva Birdi, interim CEO for Banner Medical Group
Supported by philanthropic investment, the Banner Strong Center for Healing offers on-site and on-demand well-being, emotional/ mental health services, and healing and supportive activities for all Banner health team members and their families, during the pandemic and beyond. Banner also has programs specifically focused on clinicians: Cultivating Happiness in Medicine, aimed at supporting physician and advance practice provider well-being and preventing burnout; and Wellness in Nursing, supporting well-being, health and happiness among nursing staff. Since these programs launched, more than 15,000 Banner Health professionals have benefited from counseling services and 4,000 have engaged in individual appointments with a mental health professional, with one in five referred to more meaningful forms of care. More than 200 Banner leaders have become certified in Mental Health First Aid in partnership with the National Council on Mental Wellbeing, leading an internal campaign to reduce stigma around mental health in medicine and foster a culture of caring. Some 12,500 staff have watched on-demand videos on well-being and mental health. A variety of activities are planned for 2022 to foster connection, support, and healing among our teams. When one of our Banner Health professionals was asked about the programs available, she said, “I can’t recommend this incredible benefit enough to my colleagues. During the overwhelming peaks of COVID, personal crises, and navigating trauma in my personal and professional life, visits to the on-site counselor made all the difference. I feel more equipped to support my coworkers, family and patients, and that to me is absolutely invaluable.” Another professional said, “I came to use the counseling services at a time I was overwhelmed personally and professionally. I felt numb, exhausted, trapped by my circumstances… I had little left to give. I was able to feel heard with zero judgment. This has helped me to process grief during the pandemic. I have gained back personal insight, perspective, skills, and choices that have helped me to pause and rest, regain hope, take back control, and experience joy again.” Because this work falls outside of the traditional model of health care delivery and reimbursement, it relies on philanthropic support. The Banner Strong Center for Healing was one of two beneficiaries of the 2021 Pulse of the City Soiree, the Banner Health Foundation’s annual gala. We are thankful to our many donors, including Charlene Edson and Deborah Glasrud Lentsch, The Meadows Institute, and numerous corporate and foundation partners for supporting this important work.
Charitable support ensures food security for vulnerable seniors At the Banner Olive Branch Senior Center in Sun City, giving low-income older adults access to healthy food is top priority. Three distinct programs support older adults in need: the food pantry, providing grocery staples at no cost; the congregate meals program, providing low- and no-cost weekday meals at the Center; and homedelivered meals for homebound seniors. With health risks to seniors reaching a new peak during the pandemic, Olive Branch’s programs became especially vital. To keep vulnerable clients safe and ensure no one went hungry, Olive Branch suspended the congregate meals program early in the pandemic, pivoting to pick-upand-go service and expanding home meal delivery by 86% compared to the previous year. A new refrigerator and freezer helped meet the 35% increase in food pantry demand and cover costs of food pick-up and distribution operations, thanks to charitable support from the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust, Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust, Maricopa County Food Bank Assistance Program, Arizona Food Bank Network, the National Council on Aging, and the Area Agency on Aging. The National Guard (pictured below) stepped in for over a year to assist with program delivery since most of the Center’s 250 volunteers were asked to step down to limit viral spread. The Olive Branch team also performed wellness checks on all home-delivered meal clients and implemented the “Olive Branch Without Walls” program using GrandPads, computer tablets designed for users age 75 and older, with partner, Televeda, to help reduce social isolation.
Oncology
Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center launches landmark research expansion
McCarthy Building Companies Project Director Kurt Radtke (second from left), joins Banner Health leaders Darren McCollem, Dr. Tomislav Dragovich, Linda Lotz, Lamont Yoder, and Dr. Rogerio Lilenbaum to cut the ribbon on the new Investigational Cancer Therapeutics Research Center.
Opening of new unit strengthens clinical studies in southwest and Arizona In a major milestone for cancer research in the southwest, Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center opened a $1 million Investigational Cancer Therapeutics Research Unit on the Banner Gateway Medical Center campus in February 2022. The only unit of its kind in Arizona, this specialized space will benefit cancer patients enrolled in first-in-human and early therapeutic trials requiring close monitoring during study treatments and expands capacity for conducting innovative clinical research. This research will further the promising field of personalized medicine and shorten the time between discovery of new therapies and their application to patients who need them, which is critical to saving lives. “With this unit, Banner MD Anderson is furthering its position to become the premier clinical cancer research program in Phoenix and throughout the southwest,” said Dr. Tomislav Dragovich, division chief of clinical research at Banner MD Anderson.
Charitable support played an important role in the expansion, including a lead gift from the Hearst Foundations. More than 500 community donors contributed. McCarthy Building Companies led the project, providing pro bono construction services with in-kind contributions from their trade partners. Since 2014, Banner MD Anderson has been the recipient of generous, ongoing fundraising efforts by the Canyon Vistas and Superstition Views RV Resorts and Montesa Resort Homes. “We selected Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center because of its superb reputation and chose to focus on cancer research, as it will ultimately benefit people around the world,” says Jim Smith, a Montesa resident, involved since the beginning. “Nearly 2,500 people are involved in this project from three neighborhoods. They’re very enthusiastic and really turn out for the fundraising events.”
Located in Gilbert, Banner MD Anderson’s Clinical Research Division started in 2015 with a few staff and a small number of eager clinical investigators. More than 1,200 patients have participated in clinical trials since 2016, and about 185 clinical trials have opened since that time. Five of these trials translated into new cancer drug approval by the Food & Drug Administration. Some 15 million Americans with a history of cancer are alive today thanks to improvements in diagnosis and treatment.
The Center includes seven infusion bays and two private rooms for patients participating in clinical trials of the latest infusion-based treatments.
2021 Charitable Impact Report • 5
Commemorating 10 years of world-class cancer care Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center recently marked its 10th year of providing exceptional cancer care in Arizona. Opened in 2011 on the campus of Banner Gateway Medical Center in Gilbert, Banner MD Anderson is the largest extension of the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center outside of Houston, offering patients the same treatment protocols, standards of care, access to clinical trials, and integrative support—all right here in the Valley.
Dr. Rogerio Lilenbaum, Senior Physician Executive for Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, speaks to the crowd gathered to mark the 10th anniversary of Banner MD Anderson.
Since inception, Banner MD Anderson has expanded to nine locations across Arizona and Northern Colorado. It increased the number of practicing physicians from 20 to more than 140, in addition to over 100 Advanced Practice Providers. Banner MD Anderson has cared for more than 220,000 patients, representing over 1.5 million patient visits since inception. Philanthropic support has played a critical role in the launch and ongoing growth of Banner MD Anderson over the past decade. “What made our vision for Banner MD Anderson a reality was a small army of passionate community leaders who recognized the importance of bringing world-class cancer care to Arizona,” said Peter S. Fine, FACHE, Banner Health’s CEO. “This group of individuals helped to ensure we had cancer prevention and integrative oncology, melanoma care, dedicated chaplains, the best of diagnostic imaging, and prostate cancer research—just to name a few of the ways philanthropic investment made an early difference.”
An inspiring gift, an enduring legacy A hard-working man known for his kindness and generosity, John Britz worked as a UPS truck driver for three decades. After fighting cancer as a patient at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, he passed away on June 1, 2021. Before he died, John knew he wanted to leave an extraordinary gift to help others on their journey with cancer and to express his deep gratitude for the physicians who cared for him. He worked with his attorney, his physicians, and the Banner Health Foundation to document his plans to donate his entire estate, worth $1.5 million, to the Cancer Center to benefit genitourinary oncology, integrative oncology, gastrointestinal cancer, and radiation oncology. “John’s foresight and generosity will have an enduring impact
A UPS truck driver for three decades, John Britz’s legacy will endure thanks to his generous estate gift to Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center in 2021.
on cancer care in Arizona and those who are bravely fighting the disease,” says Dr. Rogerio Lilenbaum, Senior Physician Executive for Banner MD Anderson. “We are truly humbled and grateful for this gift.”
Spotlight: Na Tosha Gatson, MD, Ph.D. > Medical Director, Neuro-Oncology, Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center; Associate Professor of Medicine & Neurology, UA College of Medicine Phoenix Q. What are some of the ways you focus on quality of life with patients who are facing the biggest battle of their lives? A. We have all been taught to believe the old adage, “life is short.” I remind my patients that life itself is long— but I argue that the actual process of living is what is short. My patients and I develop a mutual understanding around what they consider good living, how they define quality, and who are the people and which roles they value. Q. What might you say to someone newly diagnosed with a brain tumor to encourage them to maintain hope? A. I waste no time reassuring our new patients that our team is fully prepared to offer leading-edge, evidence-based therapies aimed at maximal tumor control and care. Hope also requires communication. Our team places a special emphasis on compassionate patient communication on top of top-class expert clinical care. Q. Ph.D., MD, professor, mother of three. What is a typical week like for you? A. There are no fixed priorities that dictate my daily execution of duties. There are weekends and nights when patient care and grant writing take priority, and there are Monday mornings when I have to manage a fever or coach a child through “Handling a Class Bully 101.” With flexible principles for prioritization, I am able to thrive as a woman, a physician, and a scientist.
Alzheimer’s “Having adequate infusion resources will ensure that eligible patients can begin treatment right away rather than sitting on waiting lists for a year or longer.” Dr. Pierre Tariot, Banner Alzheimer’s Institute director
New infusion center dedicated to Alzheimer’s and dementia treatment A dedicated, on-site infusion center will soon open at the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute in Phoenix, giving more patients with Alzheimer’s and dementia the opportunity to benefit from infusion-based clinical trials of the newest treatments. A philanthropic investment of $1.2 million from the Zuendel family has made the on-site infusion center a reality, supporting construction, equipment, technology, furnishing, signage, wayfinding and more. “This investment improves access, efficiency, and, in some instances, safety for patients, ensuring that those who are eligible can receive available treatments as soon as they are brought to market, without delay, and meet the growing demand for infusion-based Alzheimer’s clinical trials,” says Dr. Pierre Tariot, Banner Alzheimer’s Institute director.
Most of the experimental therapies being studied for both the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer’s and related dementias are biologic agents requiring infusion or injection. Specifically, the disease-modifying biological therapy, aducanumab, is an intravenous infusion of antibodies that has received accelerated approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. It is the first FDA-approved therapy to address the underlying biology of Alzheimer’s disease. Until now, BAI researchers have been using outpatient infusion centers at Banner Health hospitals for studies, but this option has been in jeopardy due to hospital safety measures related to COVID-19, as most patients require a family member or study partner be present during medical appointments.
In addition to offering greater safety and convenience for patients, the dedicated infusion center is a key component of BAI’s preparations to handle a potentially high volume of patients eligible for treatment. Because no treatment has ever been available to cure Alzheimer’s disease, an estimated 13 million Americans who live with mild cognitive impairment—often an early sign of Alzheimer’s—are never formally/clinically evaluated, diagnosed, or treated. The availability of a new and effective therapy means that millions more Americans in search of hope will more readily seek testing, ask for a more specific diagnosis, and ultimately, receive treatment for the disease. “Having adequate infusion resources will ensure that eligible patients can begin treatment right away rather than sitting on waiting lists for a year or longer,” says Dr. Tariot. “Countless lives will be positively impacted by the ability to deliver life-changing therapies safely and in a timely manner.”
2021 Charitable Impact Report • 7
Programs for Alzheimer’s patients, caregivers, and medical providers launch thanks to Edson family gift Thanks to philanthropic investment by the J. Orin Edson family, the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute has launched a Support Line for patients and caregivers and a Peer Medical Consultation program that expands Alzheimer’s and dementia expertise to better treat patients throughout Arizona. Support Line: Pandemic conditions created new challenges for patients and families living with Alzheimer’s and related dementias, including social isolation, limited access to supportive resources, fear, and burnout. BAI patients and families can call the Support Line when they need advice on changes in mood and behavior, in-home services, respite care, long-term care placement, safety issues, caregiver stress, end-of-life or grief, and more. Since the program launched earlier this year, average monthly calls have doubled in volume and 93% of callers are highly satisfied with the information received. To access the Support Line, current patients and caregivers may call 602-839-6900. Dementia ECHO: As respected specialists in the diagnosis, management, and
treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, Banner Alzheimer’s Institute’s medical providers are now able to share their expertise with physicians in outlying areas to improve dementia care throughout Arizona. The program is based on a national exemplar called Project ECHO (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes). Using proven adult learning techniques and interactive video technology, Banner connects community providers across Arizona with our dementia-trained specialists in regular real-time collaborative sessions. The sessions help local medical providers gain the expertise required to provide needed services to their patients and families living with dementia. A total of 37 sessions have been conducted with over 100 participants.
Physician and researcher delves into lifestylerelated dementia risk
When Jeremy Pruzin was a high school student volunteering at the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, he could not have guessed he would one day join the esteemed staff as a memory care expert conducting his own research. Today, the Valley native is a physician caring for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients and researching whether lifestyle changes in middle age may delay the onset of dementia. Dr. Pruzin received a grant from WISH (Women Investing in Science and Health), to build an online dementia risk assessment tool. WISH is an affinity group of women who, in partnership with Banner Health, raise philanthropic support and awareness for areas of health care important to women and their families.
Music & Memory “Music is so powerful,” says Heather Mulder, Banner Alzheimer’s Institute’s Senior Manager for Community Outreach. “It taps into emotional memory, which remains strong even as dementia progresses. The carryover effect can allow people with Alzheimer’s or dementia to maintain the emotion of an experience well after the details have been lost.” Uniting those with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, caregivers and community volunteers, the Shine Your Light Choir is one of many programs offered by BAI’s Family & Community Services team. Supported by WISH, an affinity group of Banner Health, the choir program went virtual due to the pandemic, serving 1,262 patients and caregivers in 2021 through Zoom. It joins another music program, Passport to Music in memory of Arlene Scult, which reached 531 participants virtually in 2021. Participants go on a virtual journey each week, “traveling” to a different destination through its music. “In 2021, we traveled to New Orleans for Mardi Gras, Ireland for St. Patrick’s Day, India for the Holi Festival, Hollywood, Detroit and Hawaii,” says Mulder. “Music can truly transport us.”
Dementia Untangled
“The adult children of my patients often ask what they can do to prevent their own memory and thinking problems,” says Dr. Pruzin. “It’s a great opportunity to talk with them about lifestyle changes that might have an impact such as intensive blood pressure control, physical activity, diet, social interaction and so much more.”
Supported by charitable gifts, Dementia Untangled is a podcast produced by the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute and Banner Sun Health Research Institute. It unites prominent experts to help caregivers navigate their complicated roles and provide informed care to their loved ones. In its first two seasons, the podcast has over 25,000 downloads and a 4.8-star rating. Access the podcast at https://anchor.fm/dementiauntangled.
Banner – University Medicine
Time is brain: artificial intelligence solution saves lives of stroke victims Stroke happens every 40 seconds in the United States and when it does, time is brain—literally. Excellent stroke treatments exist, but the longer a patient waits for treatment, the more brain tissue dies, increasing the chances of disability or even death. To speed the response time in communicating a stroke diagnosis, Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix has deployed an artificial intelligence solution. Funded by gifts to the Banner Health Foundation, Viz.ai analyzes CT scans of patients in hospital Emergency Departments, even those outside of the Banner system in Arizona, and alerts Banner stroke providers immediately via their smartphones. The new solution has reduced response
time from an average of 57 minutes to just six minutes, saving precious time in determining and performing the best treatment for each patient. “What used to take several hours now is recognized by the software within a matter of minutes, allowing me to know about these patients before they’re even back in their rooms from the CT scanner,” says Dr. Jeremy Payne, Comprehensive Stroke Program Director for the Banner – University Center for Neurovascular Medicine. Previously, the physician on call would log in to a computer-based program to review imaging from other hospitals to determine whether patients needed a catheter intervention, requiring laptop and internet
access at all times. “Now, my phone alerts me within minutes of that imaging being complete, and I can manipulate the imaging right there with the device in my pocket within seconds and know if the patient will benefit from a transfer to Banner’s Comprehensive Stroke Center for a complex procedure.” This timely recognition of stroke has reduced transfer times by an average of 24 minutes across the Valley, creating better outcomes for patients. Thanks to Viz.ai, a stroke patient who arrived by ambulance at Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center in Sun City can be airlifted to Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix and already receiving stroke treatment in under an hour, an achievement Dr. Payne calls “phenomenal.”
2021 Charitable Impact Report • 9
Banner to host pioneering program in aerospace surgery
Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix will host the first-ever Aerospace Surgery Fellowship beginning in July 2022. In partnership with the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix, this comprehensive formal training in the field of aerospace medicine, with specific emphasis on surgical and procedural expertise, is not currently offered anywhere in the United States. An inaugural philanthropic gift of $50,000 to launch the Fellowship came from Mr. and Mrs. James E. Brophy III in honor of their parents, James and Maggie Lu Brophy, and Louis and Joann DeLacio. Centered at Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix and administered with
Love is in the Air
collaborating surgeons and physicians nationally, the APEX Aerospace Surgery Fellowship will prepare physicians to work in the commercial aerospace medical field and provide austere surgical and critical care support. This unique one-year fellowship will go beyond primary care medical oversight of astronauts, teaching aerospace surgery and procedural skills for aerospace missions. One goal of the Fellowship is to form a ready cadre of surgeons and other specialists to be part of the medical teams serving upcoming aerospace missions. On-site clinical days will engage Fellows in health care delivery and medical evaluation of astronauts, aviators, spaceflight participants, and occupational health personnel. Fellows will have the opportunity to spend six months engaging in spaceflight-related activities and research.
Southwest Airlines has granted Banner Health free flight vouchers for patients undergoing organ transplants at Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix and Banner – University Medical Center Tucson since 2012. It’s part of the company’s Medical Transport Grant Program, which is celebrating its 15th year of supporting patients of 90 health care systems across the country. Southwest Airlines generously donated 30 additional vouchers to Banner in honor of this milestone anniversary, which will provide free air travel for qualifying patients being treated at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center. Since the program began in 2007, Southwest has provided more than $42.6 million in transportation in 46 cities across 28 states.
Spotlight: Roderick Tung, MD > Director, Cardiovascular Center at Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix Q. What led you from Boston to Arizona and your current role with Banner? A. It’s exciting to build a premier cardiovascular destination center within a mature health system like Banner and in the fifth-largest city in the U.S. that focuses on compassionate care, medical education, and clinical innovation. I would love to see Phoenix emerge as a city known for biomedical innovation and leadingedge health care. Q. Tell us about a turning point that helped determine your future career in medicine, specifically cardiology. A. As a college freshman, I had supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), where my heartbeat suddenly shot up over 200 beats per minute and I felt I was going to die. The careful drawing the cardiologist drew at my bedside changed my life, as it inspired me to seek a greater understanding of the electrical conduction system of the heart. I am living proof that “ablation can be salvation,” as I have not had recurrences of this arrhythmia. This is exactly what I do every day now and every case is so rewarding, because I understand the impact that this can have on a person’s life. Q. You are also a fashion designer. Can you tell us more? A. I always have had a penchant for details and design and began creating a bespoke line of dress shirts from Italy in 2007. The pursuit was simple: to create the perfect dress shirt. The details of a cuff, collar and cut are critical to the anatomy of a dress shirt and I wanted to combine elements from many great concepts and brands to make something unique and special. I have not made new collections for several years, but I continue making them for friends and family.
Banner Health in Tucson
Family Centered Care Program works wonders for vulnerable babies Program director and nurse practitioner Lisa Grisham talks with a new mother participating in the Family Centered Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Program at Banner – University Medical Center Tucson, which has reduced the hospital stay for substance-exposed newborns to just seven days while empowering new mothers.
Through no fault of their own, newborn babies can suffer the painful effects of addiction and withdrawal. Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome, or NAS, occurs when infants are exposed to certain medications or drugs in utero. Almost every drug passes from the mother’s bloodstream through the placenta to her unborn infant. Some prescription medications and illicit drugs can cause the unborn infant to become dependent. At birth, the infant is reliant on the drug and goes through withdrawal, with symptoms that include tremors, irritability, difficulty sleeping, and gastrointestinal distress. Made possible through philanthropic investment, the Family Centered Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Program at Banner – University Medical Center Tucson was established by M.Y. Bader, MD, and Lisa Grisham, neonatal nurse practitioner,
to advance the care of babies born with NAS. The program invites and encourages mothers to be an integral part of their infant’s treatment, comforting and caring for their substance-exposed newborn rather than the standard treatment with morphine. This approach produces excellent outcomes, reduces the length of the hospital stay—from an average 24 days to just seven days—and significantly reduces patient costs. Most importantly, the program makes administration of morphine to the babies a rare occurrence, which everyone agrees is best for baby. The program also aims to reduce stigma around addiction and empower mothers, who are coached and mentored in an environment of teamwork and support, learning techniques to soothe their baby through withdrawal. The program’s success has made it a model for other hospitals throughout the state,
The program aims to reduce stigma around addiction and empower mothers, who are coached and mentored in an environment of teamwork and support, learning techniques to soothe their baby through withdrawal. including Banner Health hospitals in the Valley. A young mother who successfully participated in the program shares, “There should be a program like this in every hospital in the state. I can’t emphasize enough how incredible and compassionate the doctors, nurses, case workers and other team members are at Banner. They never once made me feel bad for my choices and circumstances.”
2021 Charitable Impact Report • 11
Fund assists Tucson breast cancer patients A breast cancer diagnosis brings a range of emotions—fear of treatment and surgery and worry about one’s future chief among them. For many, the cost of treatment and ongoing medical care adds yet another level of stress. Thanks to charitable gifts from the Rockefeller Foundation and a group of Tucson cyclists, qualifying patients at the University of Arizona Cancer Center now have a source of financial assistance. A new Breast Cancer Patient Assistance Fund was created at the UA Cancer Center, supporting patients with financial need with costs such as diagnostic imaging, transportation to and from appointments, and supportive therapies and needs including counseling, oncology massage, acupuncture, wigs, and prosthetic supplies. Tucson Riders 4 the Cure is a group of local residents who have been riding in the El Tour de Tucson annual cycling event to raise funds for breast cancer for the past 11 years. In 2021, Nurse Practitioner Robin Giles organized the group of 20 riders to support the Breast Cancer Patient Assistance Fund at the UA Cancer
Dementia specialist treats husband and wife with compassion and skill Living in another state and with both parents struggling to find the right care for their Alzheimer’s and dementia related symptoms, a couple’s adult daughter was grateful that their path led to Allan Anderson, MD, a dementia care expert and Director of Banner Alzheimer’s Institute Tucson. To show her gratitude, she made a charitable gift of $10,000 through the Banner Health Hero program to honor Dr. Anderson. Describing Dr. Anderson as “attentive and warm” with her parents, she was pleased that he could treat both of them while also making a personal connection. “My approach is based on empowerment. People can reach their greatest potential
Center. “Many of our riders are breast cancer survivors or have spouses or family members who are,” says Giles, whose husband is a 21-year survivor of male breast cancer. “We were thrilled to partner with the Banner Health Foundation,” Giles adds. Together, through sponsorships and individual fundraising, the group raised more than $30,000 for the Breast Cancer Patient Assistance Fund to assist patients with the cost of diagnostic imaging.
Breast cancer survivor Robin Wineinger and her husband, Kurt, are both longtime members of the Tucson Riders 4 the Cure.
if they are empowered. I value the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute approach to care, which includes the patient, their family and the greater community,” says Dr. Anderson. Through the Banner Health Foundation, patients, family members and friends can pay tribute to the doctors, nurses and other health care professionals who made an impact during their loved ones’ experience at Banner facilities. To honor a care giver, visit www.bannerhealth.com/hero.
Q&A with Jeremy Sharpe,
Banner Health Foundation Board Member > Jeremy is leading the campaign to build a Play Zone for children hospitalized at Diamond Children’s Medical Center Q. Of all of the nonprofits you might serve, what drew you to the Banner Health Foundation board of directors? A. Having experienced the importance of quality health care and patient experience, I’m excited to have a greater impact in Southern Arizona and the Banner network. I appreciate the passion the Foundation staff and board have for the work we do. That passion leads to extraordinary results. Q. What interests you about creating a Play Zone for hospitalized kids at Diamond Children’s Medical Center? A. The Play Zone will give children a chance to escape the weight of navigating the medical world. It offers them time to be carefree for a moment—to play, to learn, and to express themselves. We are so thrilled to support this effort as a family to bring the Play Zone to life. Q. You now oversee operations for your family’s multigenerational real estate and development company and the master planned community, Rancho Sahuarita. How have your parents influenced you throughout your life and career? A. My parents have always shared the importance of kindness and respecting others. My mom would always say, “open your heart.” My late father lived by Dale Carnegie principles and shared his books with me at a young age. My dad stressed respecting, listening, and getting to know others. As he battled cancer, his motto became “Today is a Good Day,” a reminder to appreciate and cherish each moment. Each morning, I start my day uttering those simple words.
Banner Children’s
New pediatric behavioral health unit opens at Banner Thunderbird Medical Center With an increasing need for behavioral health care in the Valley and around the country, Banner Thunderbird Medical Center opened a new 12-bed inpatient pediatric behavioral health unit for patients ages 5-12 in 2021. Banner medical experts have noted in Arizona and across the country a significant increase in pediatric behavioral health cases at hospitals. This increase is in both pediatric patients under age 13 and in teenagers. While the trend pre-dates the COVID-19 pandemic, it has accelerated in the past two years. To meet the need for more in-patient psychiatric care in the Valley, Banner Behavioral Health Hospital also increased
its bed count from 16 to 40 beds for patients over 13 in the last few years. But children under the age of 13 typically have the longest stays in emergency departments and continue to be an underserved patient population. This new unit will help alleviate that strain for emergency departments and create better care for these young patients as a result. The project was funded with proceeds from the Banner Health Foundation’s 2019 Pulse of the City Soiree and a 2020 virtual fundraising campaign, Lighting the Way, to raise funds and awareness for youth mental health in Arizona. “I know this will have a dramatic effect on the lives of these children and their families,
Left, a patient room at the new pediatric behavioral health unit opened in 2021 at Banner Thunderbird Medical Center. Above, an outdoor sport court encourages exercise and play. Below, Banner Behavioral Health CEO Bill Southwick welcomes guests to the ribbon-cutting for the new unit.
and we are proud to offer this service that is so greatly needed in our community,” said Banner Behavioral Health CEO Bill Southwick. Early identification, diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the dire consequences of mental illness, delay mental illness, or lessen symptoms so that children can grow into healthy, functioning adults. Banner Children’s and Banner Behavioral Health are committed to expanding pediatric behavioral health services to meet the needs of Arizona’s children and teens, who require specialized, compassionate care by experts trained specifically to work with this age group. No child or teen in crisis will ever be turned away from a Banner Health medical center.
2021 Charitable Impact Report • 13
A Splashy Event: Prom by the Pool
Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation makes magical memories for Banner Children’s
Spotlight:
Prom has represented a cornerstone of American teenage life each spring, but every year patients battling illnesses may have to miss this celebration. Earlier this summer, the Banner Health Foundation teamed up with the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation to provide and host a special “Prom by the Pool” event so that teen patients who might not be able to attend their own prom could still have that special moment and memories to last a lifetime.
Susan Maisel, MD > Banner Medical Group Arizona Physician Executive, Pediatric Specialties Q. Women and Infant Services is expanding on the Banner Desert campus in Mesa. Why are these services so important to the community? A. As one of two Banner medical centers in the Valley for advanced pediatric care, Banner Desert serves as an entry point for maternal, fetal and newborn care, while also serving the region as a unique Trauma One Center for both pediatric and adult patients. The community recognizes our outstanding pediatric care, which mandated this growth.
After an especially challenging year, the Foundation took the opportunity to throw a unique and safe year-end celebration with a day of fun in the sun at the Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia. More than 30 Banner Children’s teen patients and their guests enjoyed an unforgettable day by the pool and a misted poolside cabana, donuts and tasty noshes, custom screen-printed T-shirts, a glam station, custom airbrushed shoes, a professional photo shoot, and a fabulous gift bag.
Hometown hero gives priceless gift of wonder to hospitalized kids A charitable organization that builds attractions in hospitals for brave children battling pediatric illnesses, Cameo Courage—started by West Valley resident Scott Fuller— gifted Banner Children’s at Thunderbird Medical Center with a Courage Corner in its pediatric family waiting room. This special space feels like stepping into the pages of a comic book to hang out in the world of superheroes.
“The Courage Corner is a huge motivation and amazing tool for our patients to leave their hospital rooms and walk,” explains Jodi Rall, Pediatric Academic Coordinator for School Services at Thunderbird. “The kids see superheroes, like Deadpool, Wonder Woman and Batman. We host parties for cancer patients at the end of their treatment. It’s a great, all-around space for patients and their families. We’re so grateful to Scott and his passion for how superheroes can change the day for young patients.” Cameo Courage is a nationally recognized charity that builds Courage attractions in hospitals for all the brave children battling pediatric illnesses.
Q. What are some innovations underway in Pediatric Care that we can be excited about in the future? A. Banner Pediatric Services include neighborhood pediatric and family medicine practices, outpatient surgery centers, and pediatric-friendly labs, imaging centers and therapy services. Virtual visits from home, school and work environments help offset travel and school/work absenteeism. The Banner Children’s Healthmobile is outfitted with pediatric exam rooms to serve patients in outlying areas. And, continuous remote monitoring devices and apps bring a new level of home care to our patients. Q. Why did you decide to come to Arizona from Indianapolis? A. Mid-pandemic, my daughter, son-in-law and three grandchildren relocated to the Valley. I jumped at the opportunity to join them and be part of the Banner Medical Group and to return to my Southwest roots—to my family, to sunshine, warmth, and daily hikes!
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Looking Ahead
Here is what’s ahead across Banner Health this year: > Banner Sports Medicine Scottsdale
In early 2023, Banner Health will open a new sports medicine center near Top Golf and Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. In partnership with the Arizona Diamondbacks, Phoenix Suns, Phoenix Mercury, and the University of Arizona, Banner Sports Medicine Scottsdale will provide sports medicine and orthopedic care, athletic performance training, plus a surgery center, physical therapy, imaging, a concussion center, nutrition counseling, and sports psychology. Philanthropic investment is critical to the success of several Banner Sports Medicine programs, including sports physicals and injury prevention education for underserved youth athletes, sports medicine fellowships, and patient financial assistance.
> Comprehensive Women’s Health Center, Tucson
Banner – University Medicine leadership envisions one conveniently located, easily accessible facility in Tucson dedicated entirely to women’s health and wellness. Unique to the Tucson area will be the Center’s provision of full-spectrum obstetrics care for both the highest-risk maternal patients as well as those with low-risk deliveries who prefer fewer medical interventions and medications. Easy access to coordinated care from breast surgeons, cardiologists, endocrinologists, gastroenterologists, and psychiatrists will allow the Center to care for the entire woman, with ancillary services such as genetic counseling, social work, pelvic floor physical therapy, and diabetes education.
To discuss philanthropic investment opportunities in these and other initiatives, please be in touch with us at 602-747-GIVE or foundationinfo@bannerhealth.com.
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> Banner Beyond
With interest from many Foundation donors and board members who shared insights through focus groups and discussions, Banner Health has launched a concierge medicine program known as Banner Beyond—a new way of getting convenient, personalized health care when and how you need it. As a Banner Beyond member, you have a trusted health partner and the resources of one of the nation’s largest health systems, Banner Health, on your side. If you are interested in becoming a member, please call 480-999-2644.
> East Valley Expansion
Banner Health is investing nearly $400 million in expansion projects at Banner Desert and Banner Gateway medical centers in the East Valley. Both projects include increased services and space for women and infant care.
On the Banner Desert campus in Mesa, the expansion of the tertiary care trauma center will address growth needs to support the community. The project includes increasing total adult acute beds from 345 to 497 and building a new women’s tower adjacent to the seven-story Banner Children’s at Desert pediatric tower that opened in 2009. The new women’s tower and other refreshed units are slated for completion in 2023, and an ICU expansion will be complete in the first quarter of 2024.
At Banner Gateway in Gilbert, a 351,000-square-foot expansion will essentially double the size of the medical center campus, adding an additional five-story patient tower and new diagnostic and treatment space. Completion of the tower and new space is planned for the first quarter of 2023, and other hospital renovations to support the expansion will be completed in 2024.
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