In Good Company | Fall/Winter 2020

IN GOOD COMPANY Fall/Winter 2020 /// A publication of Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED State-of-the-Art academic medicine available in the South Bay

A WORD FROM OUR CHIEF EXECUTIVE treat patients with and without COVID-19.

With widespread unemployment affecting our communities, we are also preparing to care for more people who may be uninsured or covered by Medi-

EDITORIAL STAFF

Cal. This will require us to revamp our operating

Chief Executive Garry Olney

model to ensure we can deliver high-quality services more affordably to more people regardless of their

Director, Marketing Andrew Werts

ability to pay.

It is going to be a long road ahead, and we will

Editor Lori Nolan

need to dig deep. The unwavering dedication of our employees, physicians, and community to our

Development Officer Christopher “Chria” Hazlitt

Mission ensures that Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers remain as strong and vital as ever.

The senior leadership team is laser focused on the needs of today and concurrently envisioning the needs of tomorrow. I am a firm believer that

I

n January, when one of our Providence medical

if we all pay close attention to the lessons we are

centers admitted the first known U.S. patient

learning through these unprecedented times—if we

with COVID-19, we knew we were in for a long

have the humbleness to learn from our mistakes

journey. Our caregivers and physicians have

and the confidence that we can improve—then

been on the frontlines ever since, and I remain

we can profile our future in ways that will benefit

incredibly proud of how they have stepped up to

our communities. We will be more organized,

the challenge. Their response has been best in

just, resilient and compassionate. This is not a

class! Our two medical centers, in Torrance and

certain outcome. It will depend on us making wise

San Pedro, continue to provide care to our patients

decisions, educated by the best scientific evidence

with excellence, compassion and dignity under

and governed by our most cherished values. This is

extraordinary circumstances.

the challenge that lies ahead. It is the challenge to

The health and safety of our patients and communities remains our No. 1 priority as we

which Providence Little Company of Mary is called and committed.

Garry Olney Chief Executive, Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers San Pedro and Torrance

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ADVANCED CARDIAC CARE

HAS ARRIVED. Providence Little Company of Mary and Keck Medicine of USC team up to bring academic medicine to the South Bay.

The Del Vicario Cardiovascular Center of Excellence is leading the way when it comes to matters of the heart. Thanks to the Providence Little Company of Mary and Keck Medicine of USC’s partnership, our skilled physicians and surgeons offer the South Bay community the highest level of expert care and the latest in academic research. From diagnostic procedures to minimally invasive valve and open heart surgery, we are saving the hearts of the South Bay. 888-HEALING | providence.org/torrance

Photo taken in 2019 prior to COVID-19

TABLE OF

CONTENTS INSIDE 3 | Message from the Chief Executive 14 | Save the Date

UpFront

11

6 | Helping Our Community 7 | Bariatric Surgery Certification 10 | Best Hospitals Recognition 17 | An Update on COVID-19

COMMUNITY BENEFIT 18 | The Vasek Polak Clinic

Features 20 | Partnering with the Best

Academic-medicine experts provide a range of services to Providence Little Company of Mary patients.

24

24 | Meeting Every Emergency in Stroke Care

A South Bay man survives a dangerous brain bleed.

30 | San Pedro Medical Center’s Top-Quality Care

The hospital expands many service lines to meet the needs of the community.

34 | An Infection Finds the Heart

A cardiac surgery partnership with Keck Medicine of USC helps save a man’s life.

Philanthropy

34

39 | The Curtis Foundation 40 | Remembering Pamela Ryan

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UPFRONT

Reaching Out to Help Our Community Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers San Pedro and Torrance support several programs in the South Bay aimed at improving the health of our community. There are three categories of funding we provide to the community: CHARITY CARE — Free or discounted medical care provided to patients who do not have health insurance or are unable to pay for all or part of their medical care due to limited income or financial hardship.

MEDI-CAL SHORTFALL — The difference between the cost of providing care and the amount received from Medi-Cal. COMMUNITY BENEFIT SERVICES — Programs to address the identified health needs of the community. These programs include the Wellness and Activity Center, Vasek Polak Health Clinic, community-based diabetes and nutrition classes, the Partners for Healthy Kids mobile clinic, the Creating Opportunities for Physical Activity PE program in schools, and health Photo taken in 2019 prior to COVID-19

insurance and CalFresh application assistance.

2019 Community Benefits HERE IS A LOOK AT OUR COMMUNITY BENEFIT CONTRIBUTIONS IN 2019.

S A N P E D R O T O R R A N C E C H A R I T Y C A R E $2,904,530 $7,085,125 M E D I - C A L S H O R T FA L L $4,093,041 $22,750,365 C OM M U N I T Y BE N E FI T SE R V ICE S $6,070,393 $10,706,120 2 0 1 9 TO TA L

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$13,067,964 $40,541,610

UPFRONT Bariatric Surgery Program Receives Accreditation Not all bariatric surgery programs are created equal. Only the best obtain accreditation from the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP®). Providence Little Company of Mary’s Bariatric Wellness Center is proud to have achieved this designation. The accreditation, awarded jointly by The American College of Surgeons and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, reflects the safe, highquality patient care provided by the Bariatric Wellness Center.

This accreditation ensures that bariatric patients receive multidisciplinary medical care, which improves patient outcomes and long-term success. MBSAQIP-accredited centers offer preoperative and postoperative care designed specifically for patients with obesity, says Houman Solomon, MD, Bariatric Wellness Center director at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance.

“This accreditation is a testament to the dedicated care team and the comprehensive program we offer our patients,” says Dr. Solomon.

“Bariatric surgery can be a lifesaver for those who have battled obesity. We are proud to be recognized for delivering the highest quality of care.”

Providence Little Company of Mary’s commitment to quality care begins with expertly trained staff and the leadership of an experienced bariatric surgeon. The program is continuously reviewed

Before

After

to ensure excellence. The center also participates in a national data registry that yields semiannual reports on the quality of its surgical outcomes and identifies opportunities for quality improvement.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates 93 million adults in the U.S. are affected by obesity, and that number continues to increase. The disease of obesity increases the risks of morbidity and mortality because of the commonly associated conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease and cancer, among other health risks. Bariatric surgery has proven to be effective in reducing the risks of these conditions.

Bariatric surgery is now also available at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center San Pedro.

For more information on the Providence Little Company of Mary Bariatric Wellness Center call 844-925-0942.

Bariatric surgery has helped Erika Brown lose more than 73 pounds, lower her cholesterol and reduce her risk of diabetes.

Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Receives Excellence Award Providence Little Company of Mary’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit was recognized by Press Ganey with the Guardian of Excellence Award. The award honors organizations that have achieved the 95th percentile for each reporting period of the award year for patient experience, engagement or clinical quality performance.

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UPFRONT Recognition for Providence Little Company of Mary San Pedro

P

rovidence Little Company of Mary Medical Center San Pedro is proud to receive a “Best Hospitals for America” designation by

Washington Monthly Magazine. The magazine’s “Best Hospitals for America” rankings were issued in partnership with the Lown Institute, a nonpartisan health care think tank. The “Best Hospitals for America” ranking is based on performance in three categories: patient outcomes, civic leadership and value of care. The Lown Institute index is the first hospital ranking to also measure value of care, racial and economic inclusivity, pay equity and more.

“Everyone in the entire San Pedro hospital shares this recognition,” says Garry Olney, the hospital’s chief executive. “It’s a complete commitment across the board.”

Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center San Pedro is proud to receive the following recognition: • National overall grade: A+ • National patient outcomes grade: A • #6 Overall in California • #13 in the nation for safety net hospitals

TRANSITIONAL CARE CENTER AWARD Providence Little Company of Mary Transitional Care Center recently earned five stars for the 7th straight year in the U.S. News and World Report feature listing the Nation’s Top Nursing Homes. This award represents the commitment of our skilled nursing facility to providing excellent care with compassion to the community we serve.

SUPERIOR STROKE CARE Providence Little Company of Mary is proud to share that San Pedro’s Advanced Primary Stroke Center and Torrance’s Comprehensive Stroke Center were recognized by the American Heart Association® with the Get with the Guidelines Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award. San Pedro received Stroke and Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll and Torrance received Stroke Elite Honor Roll and Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll. Congratulations to both these teams for this accomplishment.

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UPFRONT Our Facebook Page is Moving We look forward to continuing to share information with you on Facebook. Please add your personal stories about Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers San Pedro and Torrance on our page. Stay Connected!

Like us on

@LittleCompanyofMarySouthBay

A Checkup For Your Heart Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers offer heart screenings to assess your cardiovascular health. It’s important to learn if you have any problems or conditions that could lead to a heart attack or stroke.

Screenings are available at three convenient locations: Torrance, San Pedro and Manhattan Beach. Learn more at 888-HEALING (432-5464) or visit providence.org/heartscreening.

WHO SHOULD BE TESTED? A heart screening is important if you are over age 35 and have at least one of the following risk factors: • Diabetes • High blood pressure • High cholesterol • Family history of cardiovascular disease • Sedentary lifestyle • Obesity • Smoking • Unhealthy diet

SIGN UP TODAY An advanced heart screening is $250 (valued at $1,500). Screening includes: • Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) • Stroke/carotid artery screening • Abdominal aorta screening • Body mass index • Comprehensive cholesterol screening • Peripheral arterial disease screening

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WE ARE OPEN for Wellness We’ve adapted how our medical care is delivered to you including virtual as well as in person visits. Our offices are open and we’ve instituted social distancing, while maintaining the highest infection control standards for safe and effective care. If you need to consult with a doctor for any type of concern, call our office today to book an appointment.

We’re open for all of your medical needs: • Annual Wellness Visits • Addressing Health Concerns

• Symptom Checks • Essential Health Screenings

Call your doctor’s office today or visit Providence.org/PMI to find a doctor near you.

UPFRONT Magnet RN Profile

JAZZEL ATIENZA

W

hen Jazzel Atienza emigrated to the United States from the Philippines in 2008, she was unsure what she would do with her life. But the idea of

being in health care was never far from her thoughts.

Now 12 years later, she is working in her dream job in the medical cardiology unit at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance. First Atienza earned a nursing assistant license in 2010. She kept working hard and obtained her RN in 2014. Finally last year, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Cal State Dominguez Hills, which was no small feat since she was already working full-time.

“It took a lot of effort,” she acknowledges with a laugh. “I had to talk to my manager about my schedule.”

Atienza has been at Providence Little Company of Mary Torrance for three years and praises the work environment.

“When you walk into the hospital you feel the people and staff are very warm,” she says. “It’s hard to find a place like that. I also really like our mission statement: It says we provide care for everyone, the poor and vulnerable, and we try to ease their way. I feel like that mission statement spoke to me.”

The Magnet Nursing status at the hospital reflects a commitment to evidencebased, empowered nursing practice, says Atienza, who serves on a nursing committee representing her unit.

“The hospital encourages nurses to further their education, further their careers,” she says. “Magnet status is about the hospital really empowering nurses to speak up and be part of the committees.”

Her favorite aspect of nursing, however, is being at the patient’s bedside.

“I like making sure my patients get the proper education about why they’re in the hospital and teach them about how to manage their condition, so they don’t end up back in the hospital,” she says. “I want them to be healthy. I don’t want them to be coming back. I tell them there are things they can manage on their own. Their illness doesn’t make them weak.”

What is the Magnet® Recognition Program? The Magnet® program is recognized as the gold standard of nursing excellence. Only 378 of more than 6,000 U.S. health care organizations have received this credential. It recognizes health care organizations that provide nursing excellence and disseminate successful nursing practices and strategies. Patients cared for by Magnet nurses know they are receiving the highest level of care. p. 13

SAVE THE DATE

UPCOMING 2021 WOMEN’S WELLNESS CONFERENCE— THE POWER OF PINK APRIL 9 The Power of Pink conference will benefit Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers and feature keynote speaker Marilu Henner, New York Times bestselling author and actor best known for her roles in “Taxi” and “Evening Shade.”

For more information, call 310-303-5340 or go to plcmfoundation.org/blog/2021-womenswellness-conference-the-power-of-pink/ Support us now by purchasing a POWER OF PINK signature keepsake wrap at zalamoon. com/products/power-of-pink-shawl

ONGOING LOW-COST HEART SCREENINGS Providence Little Company of Mary is proud to offer valuable, low-cost heart screenings to our community.

Screenings are available during the week and on the weekends at our Advanced Care Center in Torrance and the Providence Medical Institute in Manhattan Beach.

Getting screened today could help avoid problems in the future. Register online at Providence.org/heartscreening or call 888-HEALING (888432-5464).

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PRENATAL AND BABY CARE CLASSES If you are expecting a child or have already had your baby, prenatal or baby care classes are a great way to help you understand pregnancy and parenting. We offer a variety of classes that give insight into what you are experiencing now and help you prepare for the experiences to come. Based on our patients’ and community’s needs, we are offering in-person as well as virtual class options at various dates and times. To register, or for more information on our classes, call 888-HEALING (888-432-5464) or visit ProvidenceClasses.org

CHILDBIRTH PREPARATION

BREASTFEEDING BASICS

In our one-day class we will go over: • Mechanics and overview of labor • Your birth team • Natural pain management techniques • Interventions • Epidural benefits and risk • Cesarean section • Choices and options • Prepare a birth preference sheet • Informed consent • Early infant transition • Bonding and postpartum recovery • Master pain management • Relaxation techniques

This class is taught by a Certified Lactation Educator and is designed to help you succeed at breastfeeding. We will cover how to start breastfeeding after delivery, common problems and solutions, and how to tell if the baby is getting enough milk.

SAVE THE DATE VIRTUAL COMMUNITY LECTURES BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUP Come with your baby (0–6 weeks) to an informal gathering designed for moms seeking one-on-one assistance from a trained and experienced internationally board-certified lactation consultant. Free event.

No registration needed.

Walk-ins welcomed.

BAGELS, BIRTH AND BABIES Tuesdays, 10 a.m., via Zoom.

Creating your own village locally and receiving the support that you deserve is what this meet-up is all about. Each month we will present a topic for discussion that will better prepare you and your partner for your

upcoming birth or travels into parenthood. Join us and connect with other families to receive the guidance and support that you need as a pregnant family or new parents. Free event. No registration needed.

BIRTH PLAN BUILDER AND OB CARE COORDINATOR CONCIERGE GUIDANCE Connect directly with our OB care coordinator and receive personalized guidance as you prepare for your upcoming birth, assistance in building your birth plan and local resources and referrals. Contact Rena.koerner@providence.org or 310-303-6708.

In person classes observe all required safety infection control practices To register for upcoming classes and events or for more information, call 888-HEALING (432-5464) or visit ProvidenceClasses.org.

You can also find Zoom links and a virtual maternity tour on our Facebook page @ProvidenceTorranceWomensHealth

Locations: TORRANCE: Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance, 4101 Torrance Blvd., Torrance

SAN PEDRO: Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center San Pedro, 1300 West 7th St., San Pedro

All community lectures are free and held LIVE virtually over Zoom. To register for an upcoming lecture or to get more information call 888-HEALING (888-432-5464) or visit ProvidenceClasses.org

REACH YOUR WEIGHT LOSS GOALS FOR 2021 JANUARY 21 5:30 TO 6:30 P.M. Reclaim your health and discover the real you! Start your weight loss journey today. Join us to find out if weight loss surgery or weight loss management is right for you. Learn about surgery options, hear from a registered dietitian and have your questions answered.

KEEP YOUR HEART HEALTHY FEBRUARY 16 5:30 TO 6:30 P.M. Even if you feel healthy, you may have undetected risk factors. Join us at learn how to take better care of your heart. We will discuss the signs and symptoms of heart disease, prevention and the latest treatment advancements. Also, learn about Providence Little Company of Mary and Keck Medicine of USC’s new partnership in bringing world class cardiac care to the South Bay.

SUFFERING FROM NECK OR BACK PAIN? MARCH 16 5:30 TO 6:30 P.M. At some point, most of us will experience neck or back pain. Don’t let it affect your quality of life. Join us for this informative lecture where we will help you understand what treatment options are available to help you get back to doing the things you love.

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CANCER CARE THAT’S CLOSE TO HOME AND SECOND TO NONE.

City of Hope | South Bay and Providence Little Company of Mary join forces to deliver state-of-the-art cancer care.

Dealing with cancer is challenging enough. You shouldn’t have to travel far from your community to receive leading-edge treatment.

Now City of Hope | South Bay and Providence Little Company of Mary, two leaders in health care in Southern California, are partnering to focus on cancer care for patients right here in the South Bay. To find out more about this unique commitment to innovative treatment and unparalleled cancer care close to where you live, go to SouthBayCancerCare.org or call 310-750-1715.

5215 Torrance Blvd.

Torrance, CA 90503

COVID NEWS Get the Health Care You Need – and Stay Safe from COVID-19 In March, the COVID-19 pandemic led to a temporary shutdown of nonessential medical services, such as annual physicals, cancer screenings and elective surgeries. However, those protection measures have been lifted.

Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers are taking every measure to keep our patients safe, says Garry Olney, chief executive, Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers San Pedro and Torrance. Recent studies suggest that Americans’ fear of COVID-19 is leading to delays in getting care for strokerelated symptoms and postponement of needed cancer screening tests, such as mammograms.

With our infection control measures, and your willingness to wear a mask and practice good hand hygiene, it is safe and sensible to seek the care you need. Delaying health care visits may do you much more harm in the long run.

“Our efforts include working with suppliers around the globe to build up our inventory of personal protective equipment,” he says. “We have also purchased our own lab equipment for testing for the COVID virus. This drastically reduced our reliance on outside labs and increased the turnaround time for the results. Additionally, we are continuously improving the way we treat patients with the COVID virus.”

Talk to your health care provider about scheduling a visit to discuss your current needs. You may be able to conduct a video visit if you are concerned about going into an office. Your health care provider can explain the precautions that will be taken to safely care for you.

Stay informed and connected by visiting coronavirus.providence.org

We are working to understand and treat COVID-19 Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers is proud to join the legion of scientists working diligently to improve treatments for COVID-19 infections. We are participating in a clinical trial for a drug produced by Novartis that may help prevent complications in hospitalized COVID-19 patients.

Participating in COVID-19 trials helps us stay on the cutting edge of treatment protocols. We can be assured our patients and community are receiving the best possible treatment. Providence has a robust research program, including an Institutional Review Board (IRB) to ensure the studies meet strict criteria for research and safety.

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COMMUNITY

OUTREACH

A HOME FOR HEALTH CARE

But, he explains, when patients who aren’t in a medical crisis seek care at an emergency

Clinic helps uninsured and underinsured people avoid the ER.

room, they may jeopardize the staff’s ability

Written by Sandi Draper

to care for patients in dire need, such as a child in respiratory distress.

I

nsured people usually turn to their

William A. Conrad, MD, chief of staff at

family doctor for routine care and only

Providence Little Company of Mary Medical

medical home, Providence Little Company

consider a trip to the emergency room if

Center Torrance and former chairman of the

of Mary has partnered with the PMI Vasek

it is after hours and/or a true emergency.

center’s emergency department.

Polak Health Clinic in Hawthorne, which

But the emergency room is often where

“My goal is to treat any patient in an

To help patients find an affordable

was named for a Czech-born Los Angeles

uninsured and underinsured patients turn

emergency,” Dr. Conrad says. “Regardless of

car dealer, race car driver and overall car

when they are ill and do not have a regular

income, race, gender identity or culture, in a

aficionado. Polak died as a result of a car

doctor, or “medical home,” according to

true emergency you are my prized patient.”

crash on a German autobahn in 1997, and a

p. 18

COMMUNITY

OUTREACH

“The clinic is committed to providing access to quality

visit to the emergency department, we

health care services for poor and vulnerable populations.”

help many patients enroll in the Hospital Presumptive Eligibility Program (HPE). The HPE program provides immediate access to

decade later, his family endowed the clinic

with a group of providers that looks after

temporary Medi-Cal (30 days) which covers

in his memory and set up funding for its

them personally, and not just an emergency

patient’s medical expenses during their

first few years. Since its inception the clinic

physician who is focused on the immediate

ER visit. It also provides an opportunity for

has operated under the Providence Medical

issue, but not the follow-up care.”

patients to enroll in a permanent full-scope

Institute umbrella. The “medical home” is

Clinic staff work hard to connect with

Medi-Cal or other health plan coverage.

a model of care that is patient-centered,

patients so they feel they have a safe and

Our teams of community health workers

comprehensive, team-based, coordinated,

secure place for health care.

housed both in the emergency department

accessible, and focused on quality and safety.

“Efforts are made to reach out and try

and the PMI Vasek Polak Health Clinic do an

This is exactly what the Vasek Polak Health

to connect with every patient who gets

incredible job providing health insurance

Clinic provides.

referred to us from the ER,” says Juan

navigation and assistance to every patient

Mendez, practice manager of the PMI

we come in contact with, regardless of

Health Department, a team of community

Vasek Polak Health Clinic and manager of

their race or immigration status.”

health workers is integrated in the

Providence’s community health department

emergency department and works

in the South Bay.

Through Providence’s Community

alongside the emergency room staff to

Vasek Polak Health Clinic is an alternative

The clinic operates from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. On Thursday, however, the hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

monitor, track and coordinate referrals

to emergency room care for primary

Office visits are $50, which includes

of patients who need follow-up care after

and urgent care services,” Mendez says.

follow-up visits for lab results and acute

being discharged from the emergency

“As an extension of our medical centers,

medical services. X-Rays are $30; lab fees

department or medical center and have no

the clinic is committed to providing

are $10. Appointments are required,

medical home. The goal is to ensure that

access to quality health care services for

but the clinic tries to accommodate

patients referred to the clinic avoid having

poor and vulnerable populations.”

same-day visits when possible. Most

to utilize the emergency department for their routine care.

The clinic is staffed five days a week by a

appointments can be scheduled within a

full-time physician (the medical director),

week. The clinic also offers free ongoing

a full-time nurse practitioner and a part-

health education classes for patients with

emergencies,” Dr. Conrad says. “What we

time physician. In addition to the traditional

chronic conditions such as diabetes.

will do is when a patient comes through

primary care services, Vasek Polak Health

the emergency room, we ask if they have

Clinic offers community and social support

Clinic presents a unique set of challenges,”

a medical home. If they don’t, then after

services, including behavioral health services,

Mendez says. “We treat patients as a whole

the patient is evaluated, we connect them

health insurance enrollment assistance,

person, not as a set of symptoms. We hold

to the team of community health workers

health education and coordination of

the patient’s hand and walk them through

to help find a better pathway for ongoing

community resource referrals.

the process. The biggest thing our staff has is

“We won’t deny care for non-

care. Subsequently, we get thank-you notes from patients who are now able to connect

“Patients may be uninsured but eligible for Medi-Cal,” Mendez says. “During their

“Working in a place like Vasek Polak

a heart in the right place with the passion to do this work every day.”  p. 19

p. 20

Stronger Together Providence partnerships bring state-of-the-art academic medicine to the South Bay Written by Melanie Anderson

I

n collaboration with Providence Little Company of Mary, four of the region’s most trusted nationally recognized names in academic medicine are providing world-class care in the South Bay. “On any given day, if you go into the doctors’ dining lounge, you might see lab coats that say

Providence Little Company of Mary, City of Hope, Keck Medicine of USC, UCLA Health, and Pacific Neuroscience Institute. They are all sitting together for lunch, which is pretty remarkable,” says Garry Olney, chief executive for Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers San Pedro and Torrance.

Partnerships with each of those institutions is why we continue to provide some of the best care in the South Bay. Patients can seek complex care locally instead of traveling beyond the South Bay. “Within Providence, we have top-quality outcomes,” says Olney. “What this tells us is that we have found the right partners and that, culturally, these partnerships are a great fit.”

p. 21

multidisciplinary team—surgical, medical and

the hospitals end up with stronger programs

radiation oncologists—assembled immediately.

because of it.”

“We had to approach her case from all three

CITY OF HOPE

Through the partnership, four highly skilled

perspectives,” says Dr. Faynsod. “We saw the

cardiovascular surgeons from USC—Matthew

Renowned for providing leading-edge cancer

patient together and formulated a plan right then

Powers, MD, Jonathan Cash, MD, Raymond Lee,

care, City of Hope draws patients from all over the

and there. Subsequently, she had both cancers

MD, and Dr. Baker—are operating at Providence

West Coast to its main campus in Duarte. Thanks

removed. She is now receiving radiation therapy

Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance.

to a partnership that launched in 2018, patients

and doing well.”

“We’re doing more revision surgery, more

receive City of Hope’s expert care right here in the

double and triple valve replacements, and

South Bay.

seeing more patients with complex endocarditis

“Our goal was to alleviate the burden of commuting on patients and be able to provide

requiring surgical repair of a valve. We’re treating

KECK MEDICINE OF USC

a lot of aortic dissection and patients needing

the same care locally,” says Moshe Faynsod, MD,

Over the past 15 years, the field of cardiac surgery

enhanced cardiac mechanical support,”says Dr.

surgical oncologist and assistant clinical professor

has become increasingly complex, due in part

Baker. “All of those things are very difficult to

in the Department of Surgery at City of Hope.

to the fact that straightforward cases can now be

deliver at a community hospital if they don’t have

“We really depend on Providence and all its

treated with less invasive—or catheter-based—

the support of a strong program.”

clinical services, including highly trained staff

procedures versus traditional open-heart surgery.

in the operating room, a phenomenal pathology

“The number of patients seeking open-heart

The Providence-USC partnership is off to a strong start. “We’ve seen volumes and quality

department, and a second-to-none radiology

surgery for non-complex disease has decreased.

go up significantly,” Dr. Baker says. “As our

department, to be able to provide the same high

Those patients who do need surgery are usually

reputation becomes known in the community, I

level of care we provide at the Duarte location.”

sicker and require more complex surgical

only see growth in the future.”

Located in the Providence Little Company of

procedures. Having state-of-the-art capability in

Mary Advanced Care Center in Torrance, City

serving those more complex patients was what

of Hope | South Bay provides medical oncology,

prompted us to look for a nationally recognized

radiation oncology, surgical oncology and clinical

academic partner,” says Olney.

trials. The partnership is facilitating the type of

As division chief of cardiac surgery at Keck

PACIFIC NEUROSCIENCE INSTITUTE Providence and Pacific Neuroscience Institute

collaborative, multidisciplinary approach that Dr.

Medicine of USC, Craig J. Baker, MD, says he is

(PNI) are well suited to work together to offer

Faynsod says “makes cancer care a cut above.”

constantly seeking partners that can support

the best neurological care in the South Bay,

delivery of USC’s expert cardiac surgical care in a

says Daniel F. Kelly, MD, director of the Pacific

and want to refer them to meet with a medical

community setting—and he calls Providence the

Neuroscience Institute and a professor of

oncologist, they’re leaving that day with

“right partner.”

neurosurgery at the John Wayne Cancer Institute,

“If I see patients for a surgical consultation

that appointment in hand,” he says. “We’re

Vaughn Starnes, MD, professor and chair of

also able to expedite any additional studies,

USC’s Department of Surgery agrees. “Providence

pathology, or labs because we have that

Little Company of Mary was the ideal choice to

encompassing neuroscience disorders as diverse

seamless communication and partnership with

bring Keck Medicine of USC’s academic-based

as brain, pituitary and orbital tumors, stroke

Providence. When you are told you have cancer,

cardiac care to the patients of the South Bay,

and cerebral aneurysms, hydrocephalus, facial

getting appointments and results of testing

allowing them to stay close to home.”

pain syndromes, Parkinson’s disease and spinal

quickly allows for the patient and physician to

“It takes forward-thinking leadership within

Providence Saint John’s Health Center.

“PNI has eight clinical centers of excellence

disorders,” he says.

develop a plan of care expeditiously so treatment

organizations to want to make that investment,

can begin immediately.”

and if they do, then it’s a win-win,” says Dr. Baker.

all these areas at Little Company of Mary, we

“We get to deliver quality to the community, the

thought PNI could offer a unifying solution for

treatment of bilateral breast cancer walked in off

patients benefit from knowing that they don’t

our Providence partners in the South Bay,” says

the street without an appointment. City of Hope’s

have to leave the community to get the care, and

Richard Glimp, MD, chief medical officer of

About a year ago, a patient who had delayed

p. 22

“Given the need for clinical expertise in

Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance.

“Our collaboration has exceeded all

PLCMMC San Pedro which has the state’s largest

expectations and continues to grow and

Subacute Care Center as well as a nationally

In particular, the partnership has elevated

improve,” Dr. Kelly says. “We are adding new

renowned acute rehabilitation program.

stroke care at Providence, providing South Bay

physicians to the team and expanding clinical

“UCLA found that Little Company of Mary was

residents who have a stroke with the highest

trials in several areas, including brain tumors

the right partner to provide this specialized level

level of care. Providence Little Company of Mary

and movement disorders, as well as expanding

of care to these very fragile patients following

was the first comprehensive stroke center in the

our brain health and dementia care programs to

their transplant,” says Olney.

South Bay and is the only center in the South Bay

Little Company of Mary in 2021.”

certified by The Joint Commission.

a UCLA Health hospitalist, working closely with

“Prior to 2017, when PNI began its partnership

Huong-Anh N. Long, MD, and her rehabilitation

with Little Company of Mary, stroke patients that came to Little Company of Mary typically

The partnership involves Patrick L. Bui, MD,

team at Providence. “Together they monitor the

UCLA HEALTH

patient postoperatively and condition the patient

had to be transferred out to other stroke

Providence’s partnership with UCLA Health

physically and psychologically to adjust to their

centers,” Dr. Kelly says. “And as we know, ‘time

is twofold. One aspect involves UCLA Health

new transplant and strengthen themselves so

is brain’ when it comes to treating strokes—

specialists opening practices in the community

that they can go home,” says Dr. Glimp.

every minute counts. Now Little Company

and joining the staff of Providence Little

of Mary is one of the busiest comprehensive

Company of Mary Torrance and San Pedro.

stroke centers in all of LA County, so when

“There are a lot of patients who have been

The first case had been at UCLA in an ICU bed for almost a year. He was transferred to Little Company of Mary San Pedro, and the

stroke patients come in, we have a highly

going up to Westwood looking for that quality

multidisciplinary patient care team worked to

experienced team of neuro-interventionalists,

of care UCLA is known for, so UCLA developed a

get the patient strong enough to go home. The

neurosurgeons and neurocritical care

community neighborhood strategy to come into

patient was cared for in the subacute for 10 days

specialists ready 24/7 to provide essential

communities and partner with local hospitals,”

and then transferred to the acute rehabilitation

lifesaving stroke care on the spot. The benefits

says Olney.

unit for another two weeks and was discharged

to the community have been remarkable.”

The partnership, while only a few years old,

For several years, UCLA has partnered with Little Company of Mary to care for their heart,

has been a huge success for everyone involved,

liver and lung transplant patients. These patients,

he adds.

when stabilized, are transferred from UCLA to

home to celebrate his 40th wedding anniversary with his wife.

“Good partnerships,” Dr. Glimp says, “lead to great outcomes.”  p. 23

Charles Demachy, shown with wife Virginia, is back working at the family's nursery after suffering a life-threatening aneurysm.

STOP&SMELL

the roses A South Bay man survives a brain aneurysm thanks to a rapid medical response.

Written by Shari Roan Photographed by Kristin Anderson

C

harles Demachy remembers the headache most of all. It was crushing and “weird,” he says. En route to Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance, he recalls feeling like there was bleeding inside his head. There was.

Demachy had a ruptured brain aneurysm causing a subarachnoid hemorrhage, a

life-threatening condition in which a blood vessel in the brain bursts. In the emergency department, he was met by a medical team well-trained in saving lives from such neurological emergencies as stroke and aneurysm. It was the start of a long, difficult experience, but Demachy was already on the road to recovery.

Providence Little Company of Mary Torrance is considered the destination hospital in the South Bay for neurological emergencies.

For nearly a decade, Providence Little Company of Mary has been certified as an Advanced Primary Stroke Center. The high standards set by the staff have earned the hospital The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval, and it is now the only hospital in the South Bay to carry the distinction of Comprehensive Stroke Certification by The Joint Commission. The hospital is also a recipient of the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Gold Plus Achievement Award and was the first in Los Angeles County to receive an EMS designation as a Comprehensive Stroke Receiving Center.

“Between 15 and 20% of patients with a subarachnoid hemorrhage like his die before they even get to the hospital,” says Jason Tarpley, MD, PhD, director of the Stroke & Aneurysm Center; Vascular and Interventional Neurology, at Pacific Neuroscience Institute—an affiliate of Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers San Pedro and Torrance.

“Luckily, he got to us early and we made the diagnosis in the emergency department and treated him within an hour. The first priority is to fix the aneurysm as soon as you can do so safely. If it re-ruptures, or if you get a second rupture, the mortality rate is nearly 100%. So you want to get it fixed as soon as you can.”

p. 25

NEUROSCIENCE CLINICAL INSTITUTE RAISES STANDARDS OF CARE C l i ni

l Inst

itu te

ca

In 2019, the seven-state Providence system launched a new care model called Clinical Institutes. Among the many beneficiaries of the program are Providence patients who require neurological care, such as those at Providence Little Company of Mary. The Neuroscience Clinical Institute leaders conduct ongoing review processes to establish best practices and then measure and report their progress toward reaching goals.

“We have numerous hospitals treating stroke and neurological disorders. We are able to coordinate the care across the entire region to ensure highly reliable outcomes, cutting-edge research and appropriate distribution of services,” said Bernard Klein, MD, chief executive leader of the Neuroscience Clinical Institutes.

The Neuroscience Clinical Institute is one of six Clinical Institutes in Providence. The others are: Cancer, Cardiovascular, Digestive Health, Musculoskeletal, and Women and Children’s Health.

The hard work of the institutes results in a high-quality experience for patients, with predictable costs and outcomes, says Dr. Klein. There is greater consistency from hospital to hospital because health care teams are following the same high standards.

The institute can identify areas in need of additional resources, such as neurologists, neurosurgeons and multidisciplinary teams, and shift resources as indicated.

Care is elevated because health care professionals share information and best practices, according to Dr. Klein.

“Prior to this, hospitals worked in silos,” he says. “This allows us to coordinate care across our geography. We are already seeing more collaboration, sharing of best practices and coordination of care across the region.”

Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance is one of the institutes leading the way in research for treatment of stroke. Under the direction of Jason Tarpley, MD, PhD, they are currently in the planning stage for six clinical trials. According to Los Angeles County Emergency Medical Systems data, PLCMMC Torrance has the highest volume of thrombectomies in all of Los Angeles. This is a testament to the leadership, expertise and teamwork that is in place.

The program encourages and facilitates research and clinical trials, Dr. Klein says. It also emphasizes metrics—collecting and analyzing data and making improvements based on that information. For example, the Neuroscience Clinical Institute has implemented a system in which stroke patients are contacted three months after discharge to assess how they are doing and how the health system can assist them further. They’re asked if they’re taking their medications or need more information.

Another ongoing goal of the Neuroscience Clinical Institute is to aim for administration of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA)—a clot-busting drug—within 45 minutes of the onset of an ischemic stroke. The goal is to continue to raise the bar on treatment and to track outcomes.

This type of performance improvement benefits everyone, Dr. Klein says. “There is a lot of negative press about hospitals coming together and hospital systems growing,” he says. “But by being part of a system, we are able to improve quality of care and patient satisfaction while lowering costs. That’s why we’re so committed to the Clinical Institutes.”

In Demachy’s case, care began when the

and a multidisciplinary team converged that

case, we decided together that minimally

Manhattan Beach paramedics brought him

included Dr. Tarpley, neurosurgeon Jean-

invasive endovascular coiling of Charles’s

to the right hospital. The emergency room

Philippe Langevin, MD, of Pacific Neuroscience

aneurysm was the best treatment, and on

physician quickly ordered a “code stroke”

Institute, and vascular neurologist Yih-Lin

the night of his admission I performed the

and a protocol was set into motion. A brain

Nien, MD, to create a treatment plan.

coiling procedure,” Dr. Tarpley says. The

scan showed Demachy had an aneurysm, p. 26

“After Dr. Langevin and I reviewed the

minimally invasive procedure involved

making an incision in the thigh and

The coiling procedure is among the newer

comprehensive stroke center like ours,” Dr.

threading a telescoping catheter through

options for treating hemorrhagic stroke that

Tarpley explains. “Charles’s subarachnoid

the artery of the leg into the arteries of the

can be offered at centers like Providence

hemorrhage caused buildup of fluid in the

brain, guided by imaging and a special dye.

Little Company of Mary due to its top-rated

brain—which is common in his condition—

A series of smaller and smaller catheters

stroke program.

that required Dr. Langevin to place a

were deployed until Dr. Tarpley placed tiny

“These are complex patients which require

platinum coils into the aneurysm to prompt

a lot of skill and practice,” Dr. Tarpley says.

a clot to form and stop the blood flow.

“As a comprehensive stroke center, PLCMMC

“It’s a minimally invasive option, which

drain in his brain and required exquisite neurocritical care by Dr. Caganap.”

Demachy spent two weeks in the hospital’s

is the highest volume thrombectomy center

specialized neurocritical care unit, and

is usually the best way to go,” he says of the

in Los Angeles, so our staff have a lot of

was attended to by Scott Caganap, MD,

procedure. “The tiny catheter goes into the

experience.”

a neurointensivist at Providence Little

aneurysm. You fill it full of tiny platinum

The aneurysm was quickly secured, and

coils, which are like strands of platinum

then Demachy had a two-week fight in the

that ball up like a ball of yarn to plug the

hospital ahead of him, Tarpley says.

aneurysm. It’s a pretty amazing procedure.”

“Everything happened really fast,” says

“The hemorrhage from aneurysm rupture

Company of Mary Torrance.

“The other critical aspect of caring for subarachnoid hemorrhage patients is neurocritical care,” Dr. Tarpley says.

causes a fascinating host of potential

“Dr. Caganap monitors the patient every

Demachy. “I remember Dr. Tarpley telling

physiological problems that need to be

single day for any physiological changes

me, we have to stop the bleeding.”

handled in a multidisciplinary fashion at a

so we can address issues quickly when p. 27

BE FAST

the patient gets into trouble. Dr. Caganap

He still battles occasional dizziness, but he is

managed to get Charles through fluid

back to work at the Demachy family’s nursery.

acronym so you recognize the

buildup on the brain and clots in the

He can drive his car and enjoy walks on the

symptoms of stroke.

legs and lungs, which are all common

beach with wife, Virginia.

Remember the Be FAST

complications of this disease process.”

“I did have a lot of complications, but I didn’t

“Subarachnoid hemorrhage can throw a lot of different punches at you,” Dr. Tarpley says.

get discouraged,” Demachy says. “It was my

“But as a comprehensive stroke center with

first time at Providence Little Company of Mary

great neurology, neurointerventional surgery,

Medical Center. The care was great from the

neurocritical care and neurosurgery, we know

beginning to the end.”

what punches to expect and how to fight back.” 

PUSHING FRONTIERS IN STROKE CARE B—Balance:

Loss of balance or dizziness.

E—Eyes:

Blurred or loss of vision.

F—Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

A—Arms:

Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

S—Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is the speech slurred or strange?

T—Time:

If you see any of these signs, call 911 right away.

Providence Little Company of Mary’s Comprehensive Stroke Center is participating in groundbreaking stroke research. These clinical trials provide promising new treatments that can lead to better outcomes for stroke patients in our community.

“Dr. Tarpley is an MD, PhD, and is the lead investigator on all of our stroke trials,” says Catrice Nakamura, MSN, stroke and neuroscience program director. “It’s due to his leadership, expertise and passion that we can offer clinical trials for our patients.

Our research program gives us an added clinical approach for our stroke patients and those at risk for stroke in the community.”

The Joint Commission requires the Stroke Center to undergo Institutional Review Board-approved research aimed at improving stroke care, Nakamura says.

Providence currently has six clinical trials in various stages of development at Providence Little Company of Mary, including two that are actively enrolling patients. Patients must meet inclusion criteria.

• One study involves testing a procedure to surgically remove blood clots in patients with strokes that impact a large area of the brain and who are not, under current criteria, eligible for this powerful procedure.

• The second is comparing two different types of devices used during the stroke clot retrieval procedure.

The other trials include: • A follow-up to the ESCAPE-NA1 clinical trial that was published in The Lancet medical journal in February. The study explored the safety and efficacy of the neuroprotectant drug nerinetide in patients experiencing stroke. Providence

Call To Action + For more information about stroke services at Providence Little Company of Mary San Pedro and Torrance call 844-925-0924.

p. 28

Little Company of Mary Torrance is the lead site for a Providence-wide trial called ESCAPE-NEXT that will further evaluate this medication.

• CREST 2, which is a trial studying the treatment of carotid artery disease with carotid stent or surgical endarterectomy compared with medicines for the primary prevention of stroke.

Q&A THE EVOLUTION OF STROKE CARE presents with focal symptoms,

neurology, neurointerventional

such as weakness, language

surgery, neurosurgery and

problems, facial droop or vision

neurocritical care. No matter how

changes.”

complex the case is, we have to be available and working all the

I

n the United States, someone has a stroke every 40 seconds, and someone dies of stroke every four minutes, according to the Centers

for Disease Control and Prevention. In the past decade, however, the care of stroke has been transformed. Specialists can offer a range of treatments for both ischemic stroke, the kind that is caused by a blood clot in the brain, and hemorrhagic stroke, which involves bleeding in the brain. The key is rapid treatment at a hospital that specializes in stroke treatment and recovery. We asked Jason Tarpley, MD, PhD, to explain how stroke patients can get the best possible care.

What should you do if you

time.”

think you or someone else is

With the COVID-19 pandemic,

having a stroke?

are people afraid to seek

“I had a patient ask me that the

stroke care?

other day. He said, If I recognize

“A recent study suggests people

any of these symptoms can I

are delaying seeking care for

drive to the hospital? I said, No,

stroke-related symptoms since

you should call 911. They will

the start of the pandemic. This is

get you to the most appropriate

unfortunate. The medical center

comprehensive stroke center.”

takes multiple precautions to keep patients protected from COVID-19

Providence Little Company

transmission in the hospital.

of Mary Medical Center is

Stroke symptoms should always

Are most people aware of

to treat both ischemic and

the only hospital in the South

be considered an emergency. Any

stroke warning signs?

hemorrhagic stroke. And it’s still

Bay to carry the distinction

delay in seeking care can result in

“People recognize the symptoms

changing. There is an amazing

of Comprehensive Stroke

greater neurological damage.”

more and more. The word is

amount of innovation. We’re

Certification by The Joint

getting out, especially in the

going to do six clinical trials in

Commission. Why should that

What do you enjoy about

South Bay. That is partly because

2020—all targeting new advances

matter to patients?

being part of the medical

we’re an excellent, top-tier

in therapy.”

“Providence Health Systems

center's stroke team?

continues to rely on The Joint

“The best things are the patients.

comprehensive stroke center and because of the volume of stroke

What symptoms should people

Commission accreditation and

Having a lot of patients means

patients.”

be aware of?

certification progess which is

we are extremely busy. We’re

“The two different kinds of stroke

the gold standard for more than

doing cases all the time. The

Do stroke patients have a

present in different ways. The

19,000 health care organizations

other thing I like is how our team

better chance today of fully

bleeding—hemorrhagic­—stroke

throughout the world. The

works together. I have not seen

recovering?

presents with sudden-onset

certification we have from The

this in other hospitals. Everyone

“Yes. The progress is amazing. It’s

headache. It can be accompanied

Joint Commission is the highest

works together collaboratively

such a fun field of practice. It’s

by changes in mental status or

and most difficult certification

to ensure we provide the most

nothing like it was 10 years ago.

a complete coma. An ischemic

a hospital can obtain. You need

comprehensive care and

We have all kinds of procedures

stroke is generally painless and

the most resources—vascular

achieve the best outcomes.”  p. 29

THE ADVANTAGES OF A

FULL-SERVICE COMMUNITY HOSPITAL Providence Little Company of Mary San Pedro delivers top-quality comprehensive care Written by Melanie Anderson

L

ong-time residents of San Pedro know their town wouldn’t be the same

“Our patients don’t just think of it as a

“There’s this tremendous loyalty to the hospital because patients feel that there’s a

hospital in town, they think of it as their

vested interest in them as individuals and in

Little Company of Mary Medical Center

hospital,” says Moshe Faynsod, MD, a

San Pedro as a community.”

San Pedro makes a big impact, serving its

surgical oncologist who’s chief of staff at the

community for nearly 95 years, as a full-

hospital and an assistant clinical professor

the community’s needs is essential to

service hospital focusing on comprehensive,

in the department of surgery at City of Hope.

Providence’s mission.

p. 30

without their hospital. Providence

personalized care.

Providing a breadth of services to meet

“Our goal is to ensure that the San Pedro

diagnostic imaging, laboratory and

ear, nose and throat surgery, cardiology,

community has access to a full-service acute

pathology, 24-hour emergency care,

pulmonology, women’s services and

care hospital within their community,” says

intensive care, surgical care including

many specialty programs including acute

Garry Olney, chief executive, Providence

robotic, and minimally invasive surgery. We

rehabilitation, complex post-acute care, and

Little Company of Mary Medical Centers, San

specialize in bariatric (weight loss) surgery,

behavioral health care including recovery

Pedro and Torrance.

urology, orthopedics, general and cancer

from addiction.

The medical center offers the community

surgery, gynecologic, gastroenterology,

“With two medical centers in the South Bay, p. 31

we have combined our expertise to ensure

With two medical centers in the South Bay, we have

that both centers have access to top physician

combined our expertise to ensure that both centers

groups,” says Dr. Faynsod. “We now have the same radiology, anesthesiology and pathology groups working at both medical centers.”

Many surgeons and specialists—including Dr. Faynsod and his City of Hope colleagues in medical and radiation oncology—have

have access to top physician groups.”

Many gynecologic, urologic, abdominal and

be close to home," Neri says. "We have

complex colon surgeries are performed via

comprehensive surgical services right here

robotic-assisted surgery, she says.

in the community.”

The medical center has grown its surgical

In the event patients need a higher

privileges at both hospitals to ensure

staff with the addition of physicians from

level of care—such as cardiac surgery

continuity of care.

the Association of South Bay Surgeons. In

or catheterization—they can rely on the

addition, a new bariatric surgeon is now

hospital’s critical-care transport service.

a multimillion-dollar construction project

servicing San Pedro while City of Hope

“Our staff has the ability to identify that need

at San Pedro to meet the State of California

surgeons provide cancer-related services.

and get patients over to our Providence Little

requirement for seismic (earthquake)

A broad range of orthopedic procedures

Company of Mary Torrance Medical Center

compliance. Currently, the emergency

continue to be provided.

in an expedited manner,” says Dr. Faynsod.

Moreover, Providence has just completed

department has begun a large $8 million

“When you have surgery, you want to

For the third year in a row, both the

dollar expansion and remodeling project to meet the needs of a growing community and waterfront expansion.

“Our emergency department team does such a fabulous job of taking care of the broad spectrum of patients that make their way here,” Olney says. “With close proximity to Palos Verdes and the Harbor communities, the hospital takes care of patients from the community as well as those working in the Port of Los Angeles and travelers coming in on cruise ships and shipping vessels. from all over the world.”

Providence Little Company of Mary

care and was the first hospital in the South

ON THE HORIZON: A REMODELED EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

Bay to become a primary stroke center.

Work is underway to expand the emergency department at Providence Little Company

Medical Center San Pedro emergency department is also certified for pediatric

The hospital provides a broad range of surgical services, including the addition of the latest da Vinci robot for minimally invasive robotic procedures, says Jane Neri, executive director of surgical

of Mary Medical Center San Pedro. The $8 million project will meet the changing needs of the community by adding 60% more space. The number of beds will increase from 16 to 28. The design of the remodeled unit provides more privacy for patients and additional waiting space for family and friends, including a beautiful outdoor space.

On any given day, the ED may see up to 150 patients. The remodeled unit will create designated areas for critically ill patients, lower-acuity patients, and patients in need

services and cardiovascular services

of mental health care. The work is being completed in phases so that the emergency

at Providence Little Company of Mary

department remains open during construction.

Medical Centers San Pedro and Torrance. p. 32

San Pedro and Torrance hospitals received A ratings on patient safety from Leapfrog. “It says a lot for a community hospital to have that level of care that’s recognized by groups that are specifically looking at the safety of care,” says Dr. Faynsod.

With more than 90 years of service, Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center San Pedro has long been a source of community pride.

“You see that not only in patients but also in the employees,” he adds.

“There’s a sense of belonging, a sense

THE RECOVERY CENTER AIMS TO HELP MORE PEOPLE

of mission and a sense of pride, and

The chemical dependency rehabilitation unit at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical

that’s very unique.” 

Center San Pedro, known as the Recovery Center, has provided help and long-term sobriety to hundreds of people in the South Bay for 45 years. Now the center has plans to reach even more people seeking treatment for alcohol or drug abuse.

QUALITY CARE FROM A TO Z Services at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center San Pedro include: • Acute rehabilitation

The center will soon extend its intake services around the clock so that people in need can seek help any time of the day or night to connect with an intake counselor and begin treatment, says Courtney Harrison, RN, Director of Behavioral Health.

“We want to reach out and help more patients,” Harrison says. “This program has been in the community for 40-plus years. Dr. Crescenzo Pisano is the medical director of the center. He has a passion for the center and has been serving the San Pedro community for many years.

It’s what he loves to do. Born at the medical center and raised in San Pedro, Dr. Pisano has a strong connection with the community.”

• Anesthesiology

The Recovery Center, which is certified by The Joint Commission, offers detox care, alcohol

• Bariatric surgery (new service line)

and drug rehabilitation and an outpatient recovery day program.

• Behavioral health (inpatient

Medicare and many types of private insurance are accepted.

and outpatient, chemical

For more information on

dependency unit)

the Recovery Center,

• Cancer care (City of Hope)

call 310-241-4021.

• Cardiology • Emergency department • Intensive care unit • Labor and delivery unit • Mammography • Pathology (lab, blood work) • Pharmacy • Subacute care center • Telemetry and Med/Surg

p. 33

A

Second Chance AT LIFE

A freak infection caused nightmarish cardiac problems until Providence Little Company of Mary surgeons intervened.

Written by Robin Heffler Photographed by Shane O’Donnell

A

carpenter by profession, Chris Castellano, 46, was finishing a kitchen remodel in his Redondo Beach condominium last summer,

when he began to feel ill.

“I thought maybe I was getting a cold,” he says. “I had no energy and was having a hard time walking, with my legs lacking coordination. At night, I was taking Alka Seltzer Plus so I could sleep.” He later learned his condition was much more serious and needed immediate attention.

Castellano’s wife, Linda, was away on a business trip for a few days, but when she returned and saw his weakened condition, she called 911. The ambulance took him to Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance, the closest hospital, and, it turned out, the one best prepared to treat his condition.

p. 34

p. 35

After testing, it was determined a recent

Company of Mary, Castellano was

normal life again, including navigating the

root canal had resulted in an infection.

able to get excellent care at a hospital

many steps at his condominium building.

This infection, which had entered his blood

close to home, one with cardiovascular

He chose a rehab center in Long Beach,

stream, had most likely led to several strokes,

expertise that has expanded since a

which enabled his parents, who live in

two minor heart attacks, and severely

partnership with Keck Medicine of

Orange County, to visit every day.

damaged the mitral valve in his heart.

USC began last year. This partnership

After three weeks in rehab, Castellano

allows the highly trained cardiologists

went to his mother-in-law’s single-floor

interventional cardiologist at the hospital,

and surgeons to offer the South Bay

home in Santa Ana before finally returning to

performed several of the diagnostic

community the highest level of expert

his own home at the end of September. Then

procedures which determined the extent of

care and the latest in academic research.

it was off to cardiac rehab five times a week

Murrad Abdelkarim, MD, an

the damage.

“First was an echocardiogram, which

“All care has been improved by the involvement and expertise of Keck Medicine

for six weeks at Little Company of Mary.

“They monitor you as you exercise on

showed an infection of his heart valve,”

of USC because we now have a full scope

the treadmill, stationary bike, elliptical,

says Dr. Abdelkarim, who noted that

of practice and capabilities,” says Dr.

while stretching and using light weights,”

Castellano was having trouble speaking

Abdelkarim. “We are able to care for patients

Castellano says. “That was cool, and

when he arrived. “That was followed by a

at all levels of the disease process.”

everyone there was awesome. The cardiac

transesophageal echocardiogram, in which a camera is placed down the food pipe. It showed extensive damage causing the valve to leak, which can lead to heart failure and permanent heart damage. As part of the workup, we also did a heart catheterization, which looks at internal pressure on the

“We’re able to care for patients at all levels of the disease process.”

To illustrate the breadth of care available,

rehab team were very attentive, telling me

heart and arteries that send blood to the

he points to many minimally invasive

to slow down sometimes, letting me see how

heart muscle.”

procedures, such as Transcatheter Valve

it felt when working out at a peak level, or

Replacement (TAVR) and other heart

any level, as a way to test what I could and

with Jonathan C. Cash, MD, one of the

procedures, as well as open-heart surgery,

couldn’t do. I went every day. It helped me

area’s leading cardiovascular surgeons and

which was necessary for Castellano. And

to regain strength, after being weak from

an assistant professor of surgery at Keck

because of the partnership with Keck

being in the hospital and the rehab center

Medicine of USC, gave their recommendations

Medicine of USC, patients can receive the

and losing 20 pounds.”

about the best course of treatment.

latest in surgical care without having to

Afterward, Dr. Abdelkarim, together

“They strongly advised that I get the valve replaced right away,” Castellano

leave the South Bay. Castellano’s hospital stay lasted a week,

It also helped him prepare for a monthlong vacation in Southeast Asia that had been arranged before he got ill. The trip

says. “I was very surprised because I’ve

and he was very thankful for the medical

involved a lot of walking through city

led a fairly active and healthy life. Besides

care he received. “It made me appreciate

streets, ruins, and temples in Singapore,

carpentry, I enjoy woodworking, walking,

how much doctors and nurses work,” he says.

Vietnam and Cambodia. “If I hadn’t pushed

hiking, and golf, which I used to play

“They were very attentive, and I had very

myself and my wife hadn’t pushed me to

professionally in the minor leagues.”

good care. I owe my life to the two doctors

go every day to cardiac rehab, it would not

and the teams at Providence Little Company

have been as active a vacation,” he says.

Five days after entering the hospital, Dr. Cash performed open-heart surgery to replace Castellano’s mitral valve.

By having the surgery at Little

p. 36

of Mary Torrance.”

Following discharge, Castellano went to rehab to help him get on track toward a

He also credits his wife and his previous work as a professional golfer for helping him cope with his illness and the long road

to recovery.

“Golfing is a kick in the teeth every day,” Castellano says. “Now I feel great, work out every day, and my strength is coming back. The weights at the

It took expert hospital care, compassionate rehab services and a determined will for Chris Castellano to return the activities he loves.

gym and yoga help to strengthen my core. As for endurance, I’m at 95%, and I get tired when I work out.” He is also mindful of his doctors’ warnings that because of the blood thinners he takes, he needs to be aware of the risk of bleeding if he sustains any head injuries or cuts.

Overall, though, he feels close to resuming his life as it was before heart disease and is about to test his stamina.

“I’m going to help a friend, a contractor, to put in finished carpentry for one of his clients,” Castellano explains. “I want to see how my body will react before looking to get hired somewhere again. My work is so physical, loading and unloading tools, and the work itself is so demanding. I know I can do the work. It’s a matter of having the strength and endurance. I feel like I’m on my way.” 

Call To Action + For more information on cardiac surgery services at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers San Pedro and Torrance call 844-925-0942.

p. 37

PHILANTHROPY Kevin & Jan Curtis create a lasting legacy Supporting Neurological Science

“We felt so blessed to be in the position that we could do something for our

mental well-being,” Jan says.

The idea of funding the neuro operating

community,” Jan says. “First and foremost in

suite spoke to their hearts. Many years ago,

everal years ago, Kevin and Jan Curtis

our minds was: How can we give back. What’s

Kevin’s grandmother, Margaret Curtis,

attended a dinner and presentation at

that saying? ‘Giving while you’re living.’”

donated money to obtain one of the first

a friend’s house regarding the heart health

The neuro operating suite is equipped

S

Gamma Knife radiological systems—a

program at Providence Little Company of Mary

with the latest technology, allowing surgeons

radiation technology used to treat tumors and

Medical Center Torrance. They left impressed

to safely and effectively conduct the most

other neurological abnormalities—in Southern

with what they had heard about the hospital—

anatomically difficult brain surgeries.

California, at Scripps Memorial Hospital

and with a desire to help if they could.

Last year, the Curtises were able to make

Prior to making the gift, the Curtises had

in La Jolla. The Curtis family attended a

dinner with the Chief Executive Garry Olney,

presentation marking the donation at Scripps.

good on their desire to support Providence

and neurosurgeon Walavan Sivakumar, MD,

“We discussed continuing the legacy of his

Little Company of Mary. After Kevin sold

to discuss the hospital’s needs. Dr. Sivakumar

grandmother,” Jan says. “It seemed to be the

his longtime family business, he and Jan

is a fellowship-trained neurosurgeon with a

perfect approach for us and the Curtis family.”

donated $750,000 to help fund a state-of-

focus on skull base and minimally invasive

Kevin and Jan also wanted to make an

the-art neuro operating suite at the hospital.

and endoscopic neurosurgery. He talked about

impact in their local community and ensure

Contributions to fund the operating suite

the hospital’s growth as a major neurosciences

that world-class health care is available to

were also made by their friends Joann and

treatment center and its affiliation with

their friends and neighbors.

Jim Hunter, who had introduced them to the

Pacific Neurosciences Institute, a large, highly

hospital at that dinner years ago.

regarded neuroscience practice in Los Angeles.

The gift has had a huge impact for the

“Dr. Sivakumar explained that the brain is

“You look around and say, Is there something we can do for our community?”

Jan says. “It’s our neighborhood hospital.

hospital and an equally significant impact

the organ we know the least about, and yet it

We want to have excellence in our own

for Kevin and Jan.

has such an impact on the entire physical and

community.” 

Photos taken in 2019 prior to COVID-19

p. 39

PHILANTHROPY

A World Traveler Who Loved Her Hometown

1960s. She was in the travel business for

appreciated and will help others, says

many years, working for Marriott and travel

Jashdeep Dhoot, MD, the cardiologist at

agencies. She assisted people with bookings

Providence Little Company of Mary who

t’s little surprise that Pamela Ryan, a

and would visit at least six countries a year.

treated Ryan.

Hermosa Beach woman who died last

She also enjoyed cooking and baking,

I

“Pamela was extremely grateful for the

August at age 73, decided to remember

says Don Smith, executor of her estate and a

care she received here, and asked if she

Providence Little Company of Mary Medical

personal friend.

could do anything to help,” Dr. Dhoot recalls.

Centers Torrance and San Pedro in her estate.

“She was always involved and followed

“I was so sorry to hear that she had passed,

According to her friends, Ryan loved life,

what was going on in the community,”

but it’s nice to know that her estate gift

appreciated the lifesaving care she received

Smith says. “She loved cooking, and could

will continue benefiting the patients of the

at the hospital and wanted to make sure

make anything from scratch. She was an

medical center for years to come.”

others had the best medical care possible.

exceptional chef.”

Ryan, who left a $1.6 million gift to the

Her friends will remember her generosity

In her later years, various ailments sent

toward the hospital as well as to her many

Providence Charities, gave from her heart,

her to Providence Little Company of Mary

friends. Before embarking on a trip to the

says friend and former colleague Judi

for treatment. She had a blood disorder

Solomon Islands in 2019—where she became

Hadfield of Napa Valley, California.

and broke bones on several occasions,

suddenly ill and died—Ryan had planned

Hadfield says.

a September party at her beach house in

“She was so bubbly and kindhearted. She knew how to live life,” Hadfield says. “She

“She got to know a lot of people, and she

had a large circle of friends and stayed in

always felt very comfortable at Providence,”

contact with them. She knew how to be a

she says. “She was very grateful that it was

good friend. She never forgot birthdays and

close by and there for her.”

brought small gifts from her travels to her friends and coworkers.”

Ryan’s passion was seeing the world. She was born in Australia and lived in the South Bay since coming to the United States in the p. 40

“She enjoyed the care she got at the hospital

Hermosa Beach. Her friends showed up to toast her memory.

“She invited a group of us to come to her house in early September. She had the party all planned,” Hadfield says. “We went

and decided she’d like to give a good portion

ahead with party even though she wasn’t

of her estate to the hospital,” Smith says.

there—knowing she would want us all to get

“They saved her life with their treatment.”

together. She somehow knew that might be

Her gift of $1.6 million is deeply

her send-off.” 

THANK YOU

South Bay Community

From all of us at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers.

The South Bay community’s outpouring of support during the COVID-19 pandemic has been extraordinary. With your support we have received more than 11,000 meal donations and over 48,000 in-kind donations, totaling $91,000 and $214,000 respectively. This support has helped nourish our front-line caregivers; and the cards and notes of thanks inspired each and every one of us. We are so fortunate to serve in a community with such heart.

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

Providence Health & Services Administrative Offices 20555 Earl Street Torrance, CA 90503 888-HEALING providence.org/torrance providence.org/sanpedro

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p. 30 We offer a growing number of medical services in San Pedro.

p. 24 Neurologists repair a dangerous brain bleed.

p. 11 Take care of your heart.