Connection January 2013 by Go Design

January 2013

The Saint Thomas Health

CONNECTION With you. For life. In This Issue: l A

Message from Dr. Mike Schatzlein

l A

Look at Saint Thomas Heart: Together Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Better

l S aint

Thomas Hospital Plays Vital Role During Nationwide Meningitis Outbreak

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Capella Heathcare Makes 9

Dr. Mark Tedder, cardiac surgeon with Saint Thomas Heart, uses cutting edge surgical techniques to give cardiac patients a new lease on life.

January 2013

A Newsletter For Saint Thomas Health Associates

CONNECTION Dear Friends, Happy New Year! I hope that the Holidays left you with many great memories of time shared with family and friends. I’ve started work on my annual letter reviewing 2012, and hope to have it out by the end of this month. As I reflect on the challenges that the year presented, my perspective is changed and lifted by our unique approach to providing care, that is, holistic, reverent care for all who need our services. Mike Schatzlein

Within this issue of The Connection, you will read evidence of our commitment to patient safety, high reliability practices in care, our outreach efforts and our care for each other within Saint Thomas Health. I feel extremely proud and profoundly blessed to be a part of this Ministry. I know that each of you approaches your daily work with the same sense of fulfillment of calling. From the perspective of the future healthcare environment, we know that a number of states were waiting until the outcome of the election to determine whether or not they would pursue the development of healthcare exchanges and the expansion of Medicaid. As this issue of The Connection was going to press, we learned that Governor Haslam, at present, does not intend to establish the state-based insurance exchange but has not yet determined what to do about the expansion of Medicaid in Tennessee. It is extremely important that Tennessee participate in the Medicaid expansion authorized under Obamacare. For many years Disproportionate Share Hospitals (DSH) -- like our own Hickman Community Hospital -- that care for a great volume of uninsured patients have received additional reimbursement for their care of people without insurance. As part of the Affordable Care Act, hospitals across the country accepted cuts to DSH payments, as

well as payments from Medicare and Medicaid. The Medicaid expansion was intended to compensate for some of those cuts, so hospitals and the poor will be harmed if the expansion does not occur as envisioned. When we discuss advocacy for the poor, we often point to the level of charity care that we provide in our hospitals and clinics, as well as the outreach programs that we provide. Those are indeed vital aspects of our Mission. Real solidarity with the poor, however, occurs when we “stand with” them, advocating on their behalf and accepting their own pain and vulnerability as our own. This is the foundation of the Ascension Health “100% Campaign” and the reason for our own efforts at urging our local, state and federal officials to consider the needs of the poor in their decisions. Saint Vincent advocated with the political leaders of his time, the wealthy and titled individuals of France. Political activity and presence is not inconsistent with our not-for-profit or faithbased status. Those of us who have a voice must speak for others who do not. The coming year, we know, will bring its own unique challenges and opportunities. I will repeat what I shared with many of you prior to the close of 2012. Because of our size and scope, as well as our commitment to providing holistic, reverent care, Saint Thomas Health is uniquely positioned to lead the important and meaningful change our communities need, improving the lives of those we serve. May God bless you in the coming year. Sincerely,

Dr. Mike Schatzlein President & CEO, Saint Thomas Health

Saint Thomas Health is a member of Ascension Health, the nation’s largest not-for-profit health care system. Our ministry includes Saint Thomas Hospital, Baptist Hospital, The Hospital for Spinal Surgery, Middle Tennessee Medical Center and Hickman Community Hospital. www.sths.com

Saint

Thomas

H e a lth ’ s

Habitat for Humanity Build Benefits •

One of Our Own

•

eginning March 23, Saint Thomas Health will be taking part in a Habitat for Humanity “home build-out.” This year our build will benefit an associate: Sylvester McMillian, a floor technician at Baptist Hospital.

S y lv e st e r ’ s S tor y

Sylvester McMillan has a motto, “I try to live every day knowing that I am blessed.” He has worked for Baptist Hospital as a floor technician since June 2011. He rides the bus to work and to the HomeWORKS classes required to become a homeowner through Habitat for Humanity. Sylvester applied to be a Habitat homeowner more than once, to keep up his motivation for getting accepted into the program he hung up a Habitat flyer on the wall in his current home. During his home visit by members of the Habitat Family Selection Committee, he was very proud to show them the flyer and said, “This is what keeps me going.” The place where Sylvester lives is probably one of the roughest public housing communities in Nashville. He has grandchildren he does not allow to visit him because of the violence in the neighborhood. There are many shootings in his neighborhood, two of which were right outside his front door…both victims died on the scene. Sylvester has not set roots in his apartment because he has been determined to make it temporary. Inside the apartment, there is minimal furniture – just a bed, a small television and a window air conditioner unit. With Sylvester’s minimalist approach, he is excited to save his money and prepare for homeownership. •

Sylvestor McMillian •

Sylvester is quick to say that he is “blessed with all that God has given” to him, and he is “so very thankful” to all the volunteers and sponsors who are helping him on his journey to becoming a homeowner. To be a part of Saint Thomas Health’s Habitat for Humanity build to help

Sylvester, contact Anne Layman Wires (284-6185 or anne.layman@baptisthospital. com) or Ashley Harold (222-2127 or ashley.harold@stthomas.org). In 2010 Saint Thomas Health helped Lotoria Mason and her two children realize their dream of homeownership through Habitat for Humanity.

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A L o o k at S a i n t T h o m a s H e a rt:

Together We’re Better

Extending Our Reach

Long ago, Saint Thomas Hospital became known as the place for heart care in Nashville. Building on the skills, reputation and commitment to improving the lives of those suffering from heart disease, Saint Thomas Heart was formed and is now the cardiac division of Saint Thomas Health. Over the years Saint Thomas Heart grew to include the cardiology programs at Baptist Hospital and Middle Tennessee Medical Center. Extending its reach even further, the Saint Saint Thomas Heart of today has over 60 emThomas ployed cardiac specialists, 25 regional sites Health and is Tennessee’s largest network of accredis ited Chest Pain Centers. Going

The Saint Thomas Health Regional Network Services include the Saint Thomas Chest Pain, Stroke and Heart Failure Networks. Working to improve cardiac and stroke care across Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky, the Network works closely with health care providers in surrounding areas to facilitate and share best practices to improve patient outcomes. Recently, the Network hosted its first Middle Tennessee Cardiac Care Conference, educating more than 200 EMS personnel, nurses, and other allied healthcare professionals in the region. The focus of the Network is to embrace all members of the healthcare community to improve health care quality in the region.

Red

Together, our hospitals have the expertise, experience and accessibility required to create a better chance of surviving heart disease and heart attacks for the 68-county area we serve. Saint Thomas Heart ofSince its inception, the Saint Thomas fers greater access and the experience that comes with Health Regional Network service has: seeing more heart patients than anyone in Tennessee.

On the Cutting Edge Saint Thomas Heart’s cardiologists and surgeons perform a wide variety of advanced procedures and conduct cutting-edge research and clinical trials in congestive heart failure management, angioplasty, stenting, cardiac rehabilitation and more. Saint Thomas Heart offers complete cardiac services, from the treatment of chest pain to minimally invasive surgical procedures that provide quicker recoveries and fewer complications.

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Through the combined efforts of Saint Thomas Heart cardiothoracic surgeons and cardiologists, previously inoperable patients with severe valvular heart issues are benefitting from the latest advancements in valve • technology. One of the newest advancements available at Saint Thomas Heart at Saint Thomas Hospital is the state-of-the-art procedure called Transcatheter • Aortic Valve Replace (TAVR). TAVR is a minimally invasive approach performed in a hybrid operating room, on a beating heart and with a catheter that is inserted through the groin. The procedure does not require cardio-pulmonary bypass and patients experience significantly shorter recovery times. 4

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“The goal of Saint Thomas G rown to include 18 Accredited Chest Pain Health Centers and numerous emergency medical service agencies from 68 counties Regional Network E ducated more than 450 EMS personnel, 900 nurses and 1,500 physicians in rural Services is to communities on the triage, treatment, and work with transfer of cardiac and stroke patients communities I nitiated and developed an exclusive and health quality and data collection program care providers P articipated in over 75 community and across middle inter-facility drills held in 16 communities TN and aimed at reducing delays in treatment southern KY A ttended and/or provided cardiac to save lives,” education at more than 250 community said Renee events and health fairs across the rural region Curtis, executive director of P laced 110 AEDs in 20 rural counties with CPR and AED training – provided access Saint Thomas for more than 2,000 first responders and Health’s volunteers Regional D eveloped the first state-approved Critical Network Care Paramedic course Services. “By providing rural communities the benefits of the knowledge and resources of Saint Thomas Health, we are improving the care patients can receive closer to home.”

Saint Thomas Health will Go Red during the month of February, particularly on National Wear Red Day, Feb. 1. Here’s Why: ❣H eart disease is still the No. 1 killer of women killing more women than all kinds of cancer combined. ❣ Heart disease kills more women than men. ❣ One woman in three dies of heart disease. ❣W omen’s heart disease symptoms are different from men’s and are often hidden or misunderstood.

The month of February The Valve Clinic at Baptist Hospital includes cardiologists and cardiac surgeons who are versed in the most current techniques and practices in the management of valvular heart disease. Led by cardiac surgeons Drs. Brian Wilcox, Kenneth Laws and Jeffrey Gibson as well as cardiologists, Drs. Paul McMullan, Kevin Rankin and Andrew Sager, the Valve Clinic at Baptist Hospital collaborates directly with the Valve Center at Saint Thomas Hospital to offer more patients the most advanced treatment options available today.

❣S end your heart healthy recipes to sthslife@stthomas.org and your recipe will be shared in LIFE and on the Saint Thomas Health and hospital facebook pages. ❣W hat do you do with your family to be healthy? Email your idea and photos of you and your family doing a heart healthy activity to sthslife@stthomas.org.

How can you participate and help educate your family, friends and community…

Feb. 1 ❣D ress your family in Red. Send in your photos to sthslife@stthomas.org to be shared in the LIFE newsletter and Saint Thomas Health facebook pages. ❣S hare your photos on YOUR facebook page and tell everyone why you and your family are Going Red.

❣H elp Saint Thomas Health Go Red and save women’s lives!

American Heart Association Resources to guide you to a healthier and happier life ❣B etter U Program: FREE 12-week online nutrient and fitness program that can makeover your heart. Each week will focus on a different area of your health and provide step-by-step guidance. You will have access to everything from daily expert tips to an online journal. ❣ www.goredforwomen.org/BetterU/ ❣H eart Healthy at Any Age: Heart disease can affect women of any age. That’s why it’s so important to start heart-healthy habits right now. Visit www.goredforwomen.org/heart_healthy_at_any_age.aspx. ❣W alking Paths App for your mobile device: You can create, find and track walking paths anytime, anywhere with the American Heart Association Walking Paths App for iPhone and Android. Use the apps and other free tools to get you started and keep you motivated. ❣ Visit: www.startwalkingnow.org

Saint Thomas Heart Gives Thonda Jones

a New Lease on Life

For Thonda Jones, happiness comes step by step. The Franklin, Tenn., resident likes to lace up her tennis shoes and strike out on just about any given track or trail in the greater Nashville area. Two years ago, during the Country Music Marathon’s half marathon, Jones had difficulty completing the course, and she said that’s the moment she realized that her heart disease was catching up with her. In her early 40s, Jones, a staff coordinator with a health care company, began having heart palpations and pain in her chest and back. After seeing Saint Thomas Heart cardiologist Dr. Mark S. Goldfarb, he determined she was suffering from significant mitral valve leakage. They began a protocol of monitoring her condition with the understanding that at some point her condition would require surgery.

Thonda Jones

When the severity of Thonda’s symptoms increased, Dr. Goldfarb referred her to Dr. Evelio Rodriguez, a cardiothoracic surgeon also with Saint Thomas Heart. On Sept. 12, 2012, Dr. Rodriquez repaired Thonda’s valve with the use of the da Vinci Robot Surgical System©. “He was looking out for my best interest, and that was comforting. And he was very kind and intelligent – passionate about his work and compassionate about my situation. I didn’t feel like a number,” said Jones. Just four days after her heart surgery, Jones left the hospital. She’s now recovering at home with her family. “It’s going well. I’m getting stronger every day. I’m back to work and looking forward to preparing for next year’s marathon.” 5

Saint Thomas Hospital Plays Vital Role During Nationwide Meningitis Outbreak

very health care community faces challenging circumstances that require a commitment of tremendous resources and personnel. Saint Thomas Hospital experienced challenges during this year’s nationwide meningitis outbreak unlike any other and in a way that’s never been seen before. In late September the Saint Thomas Outpatient Neurosurgical Center began investigating several cases of fungal meningitis involving patients at their facility. Within a few weeks the number of cases had increased to almost 40 and centers across the country began reporting patients with similar diagnoses.

Through the hard work of the Tennessee Department of Health, Saint Thomas Hospital and the hospital’s infection prevention team, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention was able to identify a contaminated steroid product produced at the New England Compounding Center in Massachusetts as the culprit. The outbreak spread to 19 states. To date, almost 600 cases have been reported to the CDC and the infection has claimed the lives of 37 people, including 13 here in Tennessee. Doctors and nurses at Saint Thomas Hospital will tell you throughout their years in health care, they’ve never seen a public health crisis such as this. Dr. Robert Latham, Chief of Medicine and infectious disease specialist with the hospital, personally treated over 40 patients. He spent countless hours during the early outbreak period between late September and the middle of October trying to determine the best course of treatment for a disease no one fully understood, states were affected by the all the while trying to comfort patients and their fungal meningitis outbreak of 2012. families. As information about the infection rapidly changed, doctors across the country remained committed to finding the best course of treatment for patients during their hospital stay and, now, at home.

A Special Thanks

Dr. Robert Latham, Chief of

Medicine and Infectious Disease Specialist with Saint Thomas Hospital, has dedicated more than 30 years to serving patients and their families in Tennessee, with a special commitment to those who are poor and vulnerable. During the 2012 nationwide fungal meningitis outbreak Dr. Latham has been an essential and inspirational fixture to his colleagues, patients and families. As an astute clinician, Dr. Latham and his team of infection prevention staff helped identify the cause of the nationwide outbreak that originated in Tennessee in its early stages, potentially saving thousands of lives through early detection and treatment.

Dr. Latham has seen and treated all patients impacted by the meningitis outbreak at Saint Thomas Saint Thomas Hospital emergency department (ED) staff performed over Hospital, working tirelessly …they’ve 500 lumbar punctures and saw countless patients concerned about the to determine the best course infection. During the early outbreak period, the ED was transformed of treatment and recovery for those suffering great pain. Dr. into a triage center as worried patients sought answers and hopefully, a a pubic health Latham has continually made negative diagnosis. ED doctors and nurses were working multiple shifts, crisis such himself available to hospital as this. hand delivering spinal fluid samples to the lab and treating patients with staff, national and state compassion during a painful and scary experience. health officials, legislative staff and media representatives in an effort s we enter the later stages of the nationwide outbreak, there are signs of to distribute the most accurate improvement. At Saint Thomas Hospital, many patients have been discharged information. and are receiving treatment at home. While there have been setbacks, including several

never seen

readmission visits to treat patients suffering the toxic side effects of antifungal treatment, the number of new cases is not increasing at the level once seen in October. Moving forward, Saint Thomas Hospital remains committed to the patients – the victims – of this deadly nationwide outbreak. It is important to understand this event did not originate from Saint Thomas Hospital and staff remains in the service of those impacted. 6

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Thank you Dr. Latham!

The 2012 Elections

Implications for Federal Health Policy and the Affordable Care Act

he implications of the 2012 elections for programs that are important to Saint Thomas Health, Ascension Health and the communities we serve will play out on many dimensions. Whether the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is fully implemented as enacted and the extent to which the government’s health care delivery reform initiatives move forward will impact our local health care ministry. President Obama’s victory, both in terms of the Electoral College (332 to 206) and popular votes (a margin of more than 3 million votes), was accomplished by holding together and expanding upon his 2008 base of the young, women, minority and urban voters. It affords him the ability to advance his healthcare agenda, including full implementation of the Affordable Care Act. On the other hand, the President must work with a new House and Senate that are much like the one that is about to end. Finding common ground for major policy decisions will not be easy. Implementation of the ACA will move forward, however, although certain deadlines will be extended to permit a number of states that “We continue to press had failed to move toward our goal of 100% Coverage and forward over the past 100% Access for all.” two-and-a-half years in setting up health insurance exchanges or making other changes to their small-group and individual insurance

• S aint Thomas Health held a Medical Mission at Home at Holy Name Catholic Church in September 2012. More than 400 patients were seen by volunteers. Congressmen Jim Cooper and Diane Black both stopped by the event to see the work being done.

markets some time to catch up. For example, as of Dec. 14, 19 states and the District of Columbia had sent declaration letters to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) saying they will move forward with state-based or partnership health insurance exchanges. In our own state, the Governor has indicated that Tennessee will not be establishing a state-based exchange. Our mission, vision, Unless that decision is and values remain reversed, HHS will operate a constant and unchanged at Saint Thomas Health. federally facilitated exchange for them in 2014. The implications of the upcoming policy debates are of extraordinary importance to Saint Thomas Health. They range from implementation of the ACA and its associated coverage expansions and Medicare and Medicaid delivery reforms, to far-reaching budget and entitlement-reforms debates. “We continue to press toward our goal of 100% coverage and 100% access for all. Our strategic direction remains ‘Healthcare That Leaves No One Behind.’ In an everchanging world, it is comforting to know that our mission, vision, and values remain constant and unchanged at Saint Thomas Health. We will continue to monitor activities at our nation’s capital as well as our state capital and continue our advocacy for ‘Healthcare That Leaves No One Behind,’” said Nancy Anness, VP Advocacy, Access, and Community Outreach, Saint Thomas Health.

• Medical Missions at Home • Advocate for

the Poor and Vulnerable in Our Communities

• The next Medical Mission at Home will benefit the residents of Hickman County and surrounding areas. It will be held on April 13, 2013. Stay turned for more details and the opportunity to volunteer. 7

Saint Thomas Health out in the

coMMUNity Hands on Heart Nashville 



Nashville Heart Walk

Associates from Baptist and Saint Thomas Hospitals participated in the 2012 Nashville Heart Walk benefiting the American Heart Association.

Dr. Evelio Rodriguez, board certified cardiothoracic surgeon with Saint Thomas Heart, presented at the Nashville Hands on Heart in September 2012. Nearly 150 attendees learned about the TAVR procedure that is performed by Dr. Rodriguez, and saw the da Vinci Si High Definition Surgical System® first-hand while having the opportunity to sit at the surgeon’s console and work with the robot.

Nashville Gift of Life Walk 

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Rutherford Heart Walk

The Rutherford Heart Walk was held on the MTMC campus again this year. In addition to hosting the Go Red for Women tent, associates from the Wellness Center at MTMC were there and gave out jump ropes to attendees.

Members of the Saint Thomas Hospital Kidney Transplant team, as well as staff from 7B and inpatient dialysis, were enthusiastic participants in the 2012 Nashville Gift of Life walk hosted by the Tennessee Kidney Foundation.

Murfreesboro Middle Half 

MTMC was the presenting sponsor of the Murfreesboro Middle Half Marathon. Many associates ran in the event and Baptist Sports Medicine was there to provide tips and information to runners.

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Mayor Honors Volunteer

Baptist Hospital’s and The Dispensary of H nonprofit organizations, received the Exce initiative to recognize high-quality voluntee number of volunteers in Davidson County,

Saint Thomas Health and its associates are out in the community making a difference every day! Take a look at some recent events in the Middle Tennessee area in which we’ve been able to educate the community, raise awareness and funds for great causes and have some fun.

Susan G. Komen Race   for the Cure

Saint Thomas Health sponsored the Survivor tent at the 2012 Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. The Saint Thomas Health Centers for Breast Health passed out bags filled with breast health information.

Baptist Hospital Foundation Rocks the Cradle 



Hands On Heart Rutherford

More than 300 people attended Rock the Cradle, an annual fundraiser hosted by the Baptist Hospital Foundation. Presented by the Academy of Country Music, the event featured country music legend Ronnie Milsap, who performed his greatest hits at the Loveless Barn.

Dr. Peter Robertson, cardiologist and electrophysiologist with Saint Thomas Heart at MTMC, presented at the Rutherford Hands on Heart reception held in September. Nearly 75 attendees learned how a catheter ablation uses fast radio waves to speed up heart rhythm, among other things from Dr. Robertson.

r Programs

Hope's Volunteer Programs, along with five other ellence in Volunteer Engagement (EVE) certification, an er management by nonprofits and to help increase the , from Mayor Karl Dean.

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2012 Ragball Champions

The Hickman Community Health Services team defeated the Centerville Life Care team in the 2012 Ragball Game. The trophy is once again proudly displayed in the hospital’s front lobby.

Saint Thomas Physician Services:

A Focus on the

aint Thomas Physician Services’ (STPS) new associate recognition program was recently named Great People Great Care, and for good reason. The people of STPS are by far the organization’s most valuable assets. This is also why the “P” in STPS’ internal PROVE campaign acronym stands for “People.” “STPS is blessed to have so many great people helping to provide great care to patients throughout Tennessee and Kentucky,” said Charlie Powell, president and CEO of STPS. “We feel it is extremely important to recognize these associates who go above and beyond for their patients every day.” To recognize associates for providing great care, STPS recently developed the Great People Great Care associate recognition program. Honorees are nominated by their fellow associates and recognized each month. This gives

associates the well-deserved chance to recognize a co-worker for the great care they give their patients. All Great People Great Care nominees will be celebrated by having their nomination published in STPS LIFE Online and in the STPSNet News section. Each nominee will receive a certificate of recognition and Great People Great Care medallion given by their office manager or supervisor to be worn on their employee ID badge. At the end of the year, STPS will hold a Great People Great Care awards ceremony recognizing three recipients as 2013 award winners. These winners will be determined by an examination of the nominations throughout the year;

v ita l s ch E C k A Message from Craig Polkow Chief Financial Officer for Saint Thomas Health

We completed the first quarter of our Fiscal Year 2013 operations on Sept. 30, 2012. Income from

Operations for Saint Thomas Health was $5 million, compared to a budget of $20.4 million – an unfavorable variance of $15.4 million. In general, patient volumes were less than anticipated and our financial performance was indicative of the weak economy and the many challenges facing the health care industry. Despite the financial challenges of the first quarter, we maintained

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People taking into account the number of nominations any one associate receives, as well as the reasons in which the associate was nominated. Great People Great Care award winners are nominated by their co-workers. To nominate a deserving STPS associate:  Go to STPSNet and click on the “Great People Great Care” button under “Featured Links.”  Complete the form, filling in each box and giving as much detail as possible as to why this associate deserves the Great People Great Care award.  Click “Submit.”  Look for your nominee to be recognized in STPS LIFE Online and on STPSNet. For questions, or more information contact Sharon Pertiller at sharon. pertiller@stthomas.org.

our commitment to the poor and vulnerable by providing $16.6 million of care for the poor. Over the past few months we have been focused on a major restructuring that has created a leaner, more efficient structure and has eliminated approximately $20 million of annual operating expenses. We also saw an increase in volumes during the month of October. The volume increase and the restructuring enabled us to meet our budgeted income target for the month. We are confident that with a continued focus on efficient operations we will be able to meet budget for the remainder of the year. Without the support of each and every one of you, we would not be able to meet the challenges that we face. It is through you that we are able to continue the work of this remarkable ministry. Thank you for your support and dedication to Saint Thomas Health.

Saint Thomas Health Health Works to Eliminate Med Errors

with

Barcode Medication Administration

he hospitals of Saint Thomas Health are leaders in patient safety.

In June 2012, when The Leap Frog Group published their Hospital Safety Score report, Baptist Hospital, Middle Tennessee Medical Center and Saint Thomas Hospital all received an “A” for patient safety. As part of the error prevention techniques being applied with SafeCare and the STHe journey to One Patient. One Chart.™, barcode medication administration (BCMA) has been implemented in the Emergency Departments and inpatient units at Baptist Hospital, MTMC and Saint Thomas Hospital.

Barcode technology is an especially promising approach in the effort to reduce medical errors. While barcode technology has been used for quite some time in many hospital applications, it has only recently been used to address patient safety. Barcodes provide a valuable verification of medication administration by assuring that the “five rights” are confirmed — right patient, right medication, right dose, right time, and right route of administration. “The gain we’ve seen from BCMA has been tremendous,” said Dan Leffler, STHe Pharmacy Informatics Director. “There was an immediate positive impact that only grew as time passed with little to no negative impact on time and work flow for clinicians.” Greater than ninety percent of associates surveyed after BCMA’s implementation across STHe agreed that BCMA is improving patient safety. BCMA is the foundation of Closed Loop Medication Administration. It starts in the pharmacy where the medi-

cations are barcoded. Before even getting to the administration phase, BCMA eliminates a category of possible errors. Using BCMA, pharmacy technicians scan medications when refilling or loading medications into automated dispensing machines. The bar code confirms it’s the right drug that’s being loaded into the right location in the dispensing machine. When administering medications, clinicians scan the medication and the patient’s arm band at the patient’s bedside to ensure the right patient is getting the right dose of the right medication at the right time via the right route. “Everything has an independent double-check,” said Teresa Buswell Dixson, STHe Clinical Program Coordinator. “In addition to checking the ‘five rights,’ BCMA alerts can provide a level of clinical decision support.”

Next Steps Now that BCMA has been implemented in the EDs and inpatient units, plans are underway to roll it out in the nurseries and neonatal intensive care units at Baptist Hospital and MTMC by the end of fiscal year 2013. Successfully using BCMA requires continuous maintenance to ensure incoming medications are coded to provide a seamless process to administer medications at the bedside. In addition, STHe plans to start the implementation process for IV Smart Pumps in early spring 2013. Introduction of IV smart pumps will further reduce the potential occurrence of adverse drug events by alerting clinicians when an IV pump is programed to a setting that does not match the hospital’s drug administration guidelines.

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And Capella Healthcare Makes

River Park Hospital joined the Saint Thomas Stroke Network in November 2012.

n April 2012, Saint Thomas Health and Capella Healthcare announced the beginning of its unique partnership. With the goal of improving

health care throughout Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky, Saint Thomas Health became part owners in Capella’s four Middle Tennessee hospitals: River Park Hospital in McMinnville, Highlands Medical Center (formerly White County Community Hospital) in Sparta, DeKalb Community Hospital in Smithville and Stones River Hospital in Woodbury. These hospitals now operate as part of the Saint Thomas Health Network bringing the total number of hospitals under Saint Thomas Health to nine.

“Partnering with Capella Healthcare gives Saint Thomas Health the opportunity to extend our reach into the Middle Tennessee community,” said Karen Springer, Chief Operating Officer for Saint Thomas Health. “After much discernment, leaders from both sides felt that the partnership was beneficial to all parties. As for Saint Thomas Health, not only are we extending our service area we are extending our mission outreach.” Adding Capella’s four Middle Tennessee locations to the Saint Thomas Health Network extends the STHe footprint into the Upper Cumberland region of Tennessee. As part of the network, the Capella hospitals will work with STHe to expand and enhance the care that’s available in their facilities. Additional benefits of the partnership for Capella include a new standard of quality and service, enhanced cardiac care and re-branding of their hospitals to reflect the STHe partnership.

n Nov. 8, River Park Hospital joined the Saint Thomas Stroke Network. In preparation for the partnership announcement, River Park Hospital and the Saint Thomas Stroke Network held a stroke drill. The drill was a collaborative effort among Warren County Emergency Medical Services, Warren County Schools, Saint Thomas Health and River Park Hospital and allowed all parties to showcase the stroke education Saint Thomas Health has provided over the past several weeks. During the drill,

Warren County Director of Schools, Bobby Cox, acted as a patient having a stroke. The drill outlined the stroke network procedure from start to finish, with all parties acting out their roles in the drill as realistically as possible. Drills to increase readiness to treat stroke patients are part of the benefits of joining the Saint Thomas Health Stroke Network. Highlands Medical Center, DeKalb Community Hospital and Stones River Hospital are also working to join the Saint Thomas Health Chest Pain and Stroke Networks in 2013.

About the Hospitals… River Park Hospital Location: 1559 Sparta Street

DeKalb Community Hospital

McMinnville, TN

Location: 520 West Main Street

Phone: (931) 815-4000

Smithville, TN

Website:

Phone: (615) 215-5000

riverparkhospital.com

Website:

Beds: 125

dekalbcommunityhospital.com Beds: 71

Fully accredited by The Joint Commission

Services: 24-hour Emergency Care, Accredited Chest Pain

Services: 24-hour Emergency Care, Medical/Surgical Care,

Center, Air Evac Helicopter access, Rehabilitation Unit, Inpatient

Intensive Care Unit, General Surgery, Clinical Laboratory, Sleep

and Outpatient Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech

Services, Diagnostic Imaging services include X-ray, CT, MRI,

Therapy, Labor and Delivery Suites, Diagnostic Imaging, Accredited

Ultrasound, Mammography and Nuclear Medicine. Physical

Digital Mammography Services, Sleep Lab, Cardiac Rehab,

and Occupational Therapy, Respiratory Therapy Pulmonary

Pulmonology, Accredited Diabetes Education Center, Nutritional

Function Testing, Nuclear and Non-Nuclear Stress Testing, EEG’s,

Counseling, Outpatient Lab Services, Accredited Clinical Lab,

Pulmonology, Oncology Clinic and Infusion Center, Cardiology,

Orthopedics, Outpatient and Inpatient Surgical Services and

Urology, Orthopedics, Gastroenterology and Ophthalmology

Hospitalist Program

Stones River Hospital Highlands Medical Center

Location: 324 Doolittle Road

Location: 401 Sewell Road

Phone: (615) 563-4001

Sparta, TN

Website:

Phone: (931) 738-9211

stonesriverhospital.com

Website:

Beds: 60

Woodbury, TN

highlandsmedicalcenter.net Beds: 60

Fully accredited by The Joint Commission

Services: 24-hour Emergency Care, Medical/Surgical Care, General

Services: 24-hour Emergency Care, Medical/Surgical Care,

Surgery, Clinical Laboratory, Sleep Services, Diagnostic Imaging

Intensive Care, General Surgery, Clinical Laboratory, Sleep Center,

services including X-ray, CT, MRI, Ultrasound, Mammography

Diagnostic Imaging services include X-ray, CT, MRI, Ultrasound,

and Nuclear Medicine, Physical and Occupational Therapy,

Digital Mammography and Nuclear Medicine. Physical and

Respiratory Therapy, Pulmonary Function Testing, Nuclear and Non-

Occupational Therapy, Sports Medicine, Respiratory Therapy,

Nuclear Stress Testing, EEG’s, Pulmonology, Cardiology, Urology,

Pulmonary Function Testing, Nuclear and Non-Nuclear Stress

Gastroenterology, Podiatry, Nephrology, Ophthalmology, Neurology

Testing, EEG’s, Pulmonology, ENT, Orthopedics, Gynecology,

and a 22-bed inpatient Geriatric-Psych/Depression Unit, called

Urology, Diabetes Care, Nephrology, Podiatry, and a 10-bed

Riverside Center.

inpatient Geriatric-Psych Unit, called Highlands Senior Care.

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Healthy for Life:

We want to help you take control of your health

n May 2012, Saint Thomas Health launched its associate wellness initiative, Healthy for Life, with a kickoff celebration at LP Field. Associates were encouraged to come to this event to learn about different options available to them to help them improve their overall health and well-being. “Health isn’t just about the physical,” said Deborah Story, Chief Human Resources Officer for Saint Thomas Health. “We want our associates to be healthy: mind, body and spirit. The goal of Healthy for Life is to encourage associates to take action to maintain and/or improve their health. We all have different circumstances affecting our lives. Stress, weight, financial burdens, and other matters can weigh one down. Healthy for Life aims to help in many areas.” Nearly 500 associates participated in the kickoff celebration and more than 1,400 associates signed up for the Make One Change Challenge. The Challenge is part of Saint Thomas Health’s association with Keas, an interactive tool designed to help associates connect, have fun and get healthy.

During the Healthy for Life kickoff, teams from each hospital competed for the honor of Healthy for Life Team Champions. The Challenge lasted 12 weeks with prizes being awarded throughout. The top winner, Beverly’s Belly Busters, was a team of PBX Operators at Baptist Hospital. “The Challenge helped me to make small changes in my life that added up to improved overall health,” said Beverly Baxter. Baxter helped lead her team to victory by encouraging her teammates and leading by example. “Setting goals each week helped me develop healthier habits and having a place to post my progress and see how my coworkers were doing really helped motivate me.”

Smoking Cessation

Saint Thomas Health would like to help associates who want to quit smoking. For more information about Free Tobacco Cessation Programs offered, call 615-222-6506 or 931-729-6792 (for Hickman Community Hospital associates). 14

Instructors from the YMCA were on hand at the Healthy for Life kickoff to give demonstrations on current fitness trends such as Zumba and Yoga.

The Make One Change Challenge top winners, Beverly’s Belly Busters, with Deborah Story, Chief Human Resources Officer for Saint Thomas Health, Martha Underwood, Human Resources Director for Baptist Hospital, and Renee Kessler, Chief Operating Officer for Baptist Hospital

he second challenge, Holiday Hold, began Nov. 5 and challenged associates to maintain their pre-holiday weight throughout Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years’. During the holiday season, the average American gains seven pounds and never loses it. More than 450 Saint Thomas Health associates participated in the Holiday Hold Challenge through Keas or the Wellness Centers. In addition to challenges, Saint Thomas Health offers associates assistance and education on financial matters, to kick smoking, choosing healthier foods through Balance, and mental health and well-being.

Ceridian LifeWorks

Saint Thomas Health’s Employee Assistance Program through Ceridian is LifeWorks. Through Ceridian LifeWorks, associates have access to services on addiction and recovery, elder care, emotional wellbeing, finances and personal budgeting, legal issues, mid-life and retirement, parenting and childcare, schooling, education, work, managing people and taking care of yourself. For immediate assistance, call 1-888-267-8126 or visit www.lifeworks. com. The Saint Thomas Health user ID is STHS. The password is EAP.

Balance

Saint Thomas Health introduced Balance in the fall of 2012. Balance offers financial incentives for associates when purchasing healthy foods, along with education about the benefits of eating healthy, balanced meals. Associates receive a 20 percent discount on healthy items they purchase in the cafeterias. Also part of the Balance program is a 10 percent discount for all hospital visitors on healthy items purchased in the cafeterias.

Wellness Centers

Saint Thomas Health has two Wellness Centers available to associates and the public. In Nashville, there is the Wellness Center at Saint Thomas Hospital. In Murfreesboro, there is the Wellness Center at MTMC. Both Centers offer group fitness classes, personal training and an abundance of weight and cardio machines. In addition, associates receive discounted membership rates. For more information, call 222-2056 for the Wellness Center at Saint Thomas Hospital and 396-5500 for the Wellness Center at MTMC.

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P.O. Box 380 Nashville, TN 37202

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Care for the Caregiver One of the benefits of having MissionPoint Health Partners as part of the Saint Thomas Health benefits package is the one-on-one support available to associates and their families from a Health Partner. A Health Partner is there to help MissionPoint members navigate a complex health care system. With coordination between the patient and the physician, Health Partners are there to help the patient meet their health goals. Here are just some of the services they provide:

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What a Health Partner Can Do For You

Navigation – Health Partners help

members and their families navigate the health care system – from finding a specialist to understanding a new diagnosis.

lar basis to assist them with resources, education and problem solve. Health Partners will even conduct a home visit to assess for disease triggers. Transition management – Health

Social services – All of the Health

Partners will help the patient move from the hospital to home and begin to incorporate their discharge instructions into their daily self-care.

Health coaching – Health Partners

To engage a Health Partner in your care, call 284-6808. There are no charges, no forms to fill out and no referral process required. Health Partners are there to help you.

Partners can assist with social needs and make referrals to a licensed social worker when needed. can help members develop plans to meet their goals whether it be to quit smoking, lose weight or better manage their blood pressure. Chronic disease management – If

a member has a chronic illness (such as CHF or Diabetes), the Health Partners will contact them on a regu-