December 23, 2011
MEDICAL UNIVERSITY of SOUTH CAROLINA
Vol. 30, No. 19
Recruit thankful for excellent patient care credited in 2009 to leading her staff in receiving the Beacon Award, a national recognition for achieving critical care excellence for best patient care practices and outcomes. “There’s something about Nick that draws people to him. He’s respectful, polite and sincere. He possesses all the qualities that are taught in the Marine Corps — honor, respect, duty and discipline — and it shows. Nick’s presence has brought out the best in each of us, and it’s heartwarming to see.” As the days drew closer for Battles’ transfer, his mother worried that he may not receive the same level of care at his new location, the James A. Haley Veteran’s Hospital in Tampa. She was assured that the University of South Florida-affiliated hospital was among the best in the area and it’s located near his father’s fire station. NSICU medical director and Battles’ physician Julio Chalela, M.D., is a senior Army reservist and surgeon. Battles’ youth and presence on the unit reminded Chalela of the fit Marine and Army recruits he’d care for during his deployments to Iraq. “I was impressed with their sense of duty, courage and commitment to country even in the toughest of situations. Nick’s presence on the unit reminded me of that, and it was inspiring to all of us.” On Dec. 14, Battles said goodbye to his MUSC friends as he turned another corner in his journey to recovery. For 2012, his wish is simply to get better. “I hope to push myself more in every challenge that comes my way.”
By Cindy ABole Public Relations
J
ust days before Florida native Nick Battles was to graduate from boot camp, an accident transformed him from being an athletic to being a spinal cord injury victim. Battles, 19, was on track to fulfilling a dream to become a Marine. On Nov. 9 he suffered a severe spinal cord injury during a training exercise. Battles was quickly transported from Beaufort to Charleston and treated at MUSC’s Neurosciences Intensive Care Unit (NSICU). During the next five weeks, Battles got the support of nurses, physicians, pharmacists, patient aides, respiratory therapists and other specialists who rallied around him and his family. Upon hearing news of Battles’ injury, his family came to Charleston to give him their support. His mother, Wendy, was relieved to find out about MUSC’s reputation as the Lowcountry’s only Level 1 trauma center and that the NSICU provides the highest level of care for the most critically injured patients. “The care at MUSC has been amazing for both Nick and our family. This is Nick’s first experience in a hospital. We’re so grateful to so many people who’ve been involved with his care or have shown support to him in some capacity. It’s a tragic situation, but we feel truly blessed.” First, the NSICU team worked in managing Battles’ pain, swelling and bruising from his injury. Later, he
2
Wendy Battles gives her son, Nick, a donated Christmas tree created by members of the Council of Garden Clubs of Greater Charleston. With Nick is nurse Megan Withers and visitors from his boot camp training battalion. underwent successful spine surgery where surgeons realigned and fused a cervical fracture in his neck. Next, Battles began physical therapy to increase his range-of-motion and to do strengthening exercises and other therapies. NSICU nurse Danielle Prox was Battles’ primary nurse in the unit. To her, he was an ideal patient. “He has the most amazing positive attitude that I’ve seen in anyone. It’s been a pleasure to care for someone who’s that appreciative and sincere about the care they receive whether it's from me, a colleague or anyone on his care team.”
reducing infections Pediatric Intensive Care Unit staff are committed to preventing infections.
4
Battles’ Marine Corps family also remained by his side. Just a week after Battles was supposed to graduate, he got a visit from Marine Corps leaders and his battalion senior drill instructor. They presented him with the Corps’ eagle, globe and anchor pin and promotion to the rank of private first class. NSICU’s Cheryl Holderfield has served as the unit’s nurse manager since 2007 and considers herself a Battles “fan.” For the five weeks that he has been on the unit, she’s taken a back seat role as a quiet supporter to her talented 41-member staff. Holderfield was
Lifetime Achievement AwArd
3
Applause Program
Honor reveals Dr. Charles Darby Jr.’s passion for children.
5
Meet Brandon
8
Year in Review
READ THE CATALYST ONLINE - http://www.musc.edu/catalyst
2 The CATAlysT, December 23, 2011
PICU recognized for infection prevention practices By Cindy ABole Public Relations It is Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) nurse manager Melinda Biller and her team’s goal to reduce infections and save lives, especially for the Children’s Hospital’s littlest patients. For the last few years, unit nurses, technicians, physicians and multidisciplinary staff have committed to creating and sharing best practices as part of a 24-month national collaborative focused on infection prevention in the hospital. Its results yielded the establishment of a unit-based patient safety program infrastructure to prevent infections related to the use of central line catheters while improving quality patient care. In October, PICU was recognized by the S.C. Hospital Association (SCHA) for their efforts in reducing blood stream infection (BSI) rates with a Stop BSI Award. Since the end of October, PICU has no reported central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI). Biller is pleased of this accomplishment within her 11-bed specialty care unit. “I’m extremely proud of our staff for this achievement. Everyone’s been proactive and invested with this effort since we committed to it back in 2009.” In the United States, about 99,000 people die from health-acquired infections with CLABSI and catheterassociated urinary tract infections
Editorial of fice MUSC Office of Public Relations 135 Cannon Street, Suite 403C, Charleston, SC 29425. 843-792-4107 Fax: 843-792-6723 Editor: Kim Draughn catalyst@musc.edu Catalyst staff: Cindy Abole, aboleca@musc.edu Dawn Brazell, brazell@musc.edu
PICU staff receive the South Carolina Hospital Association’s most improved award for reducing blood stream infections in patients. being the most common. To reduce its prevalence, SCHA, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality and other group’s statewide organizations like MUSC have committed to reducing CLABSI in hospital ICUs throughout the state through staff and patient education, communications and best practices. The effort was lead by Biller and PICU nurses Natalie Bell, Patricia Prause and Rose Augustus. The team proposed new best practices that focused on a personal approach to care with improvements to patient and family communications, scheduled dressing changes, practice audits, establishment of a unit safety board and other measures. The Catalyst is published once a week. Paid adver tisements, which do not represent an endorsement by MUSC or the State of South Carolina, are handled by Island Publications Inc., Moultrie News, 134 Columbus St., Charleston, S.C., 843-849-1778 or 843-958-7490. E-mail: sales@moultrienews.com.
Other interventions adopted by the 45-member staff for decreasing CLABSI risk include hand hygiene (in October, the unit was 99 percent in compliance), skin preparation using an antiseptic prep prior to central line insertions and line care maintenance. Working with MUSC Infection Control and the hospital’s Zero BSI Group, the unit possesses one of the medical center’s best infection rates by reducing CLABSI by 91 percent. “We knew what each of us should be doing both individually and as a team. We recognized that embracing a culture of safety change within our staff extends past BSI. Bottom line is that we are the last line of defense as it relates to preventing health care associated
infections with our patients,” said Biller. South Carolina and MUSC’s effort follows a national initiative led by infection prevention advocate Peter Pronovost, M.D., the Johns Hopkins Quality and Safety Research Group and other national hospitals and medical facilities to reduce the incidence of BSIs. Deb Browning, R.N., Children’s Hospital nursing director, couldn’t be more proud of the PICU team’s progress. “Melinda is a strong PICU manager and leader who is energetic and enthusiastic about her cause. She is always challenging the PICU staff in providing the best care possible to the hospital’s pediatric patients each day. She fosters an atmosphere that leads everyone to want to do their best to decrease BSI and other health careacquired infections. She is a true mentor and patient advocate.” Beth Rhoton is an infection control preventionist assigned to work with the PICU team. PICU was among 16 MUSC units and departments involved in the National Stop BSI Initiative. “It’s been incredible of the PICU’s teamwork and commitment with this effort. This is an outstanding accomplishment for them and other MUSC inpatient areas that’ve made improvements in this area.” In the coming months, the PICU team will take lessons learned from reducing BSI to apply to lowering rates for ventilator-associated pneumonia infections.
New system to measure, share feedback on student’s clinical, classroom experience To prepare future health care professionals, assessment of a student’s learning performance is a valuable part of the educational experience. To accomplish this, MUSC uses a web-based evaluation system called E*Value as a way to measure a student’s performance. E*Value allows students, trainees, supervisors to share feedback about their classroom and clinical experiences. Starting Feb. 1, the E*Value login will be upgraded. Using an individual’s
NetId and password, users will be able to access a new internal-to-MUSC E*Value homepage linking them not only to E*Value but also other evaluation tools, resources and support services that are specific to MUSC. Although go-live for NetID-integrated login officially will be Feb. 1, users can begin using it now at http://evalue.musc.edu. Users who have questions should contact their college E*Value coordinator.
The CATAlysT, December 23, 2011 3
Applause Program
Dear Colleagues: As you know, the medical university has undertaken a branding effort: Changing What’s Possible. This past year, a communications campaign reached across the state and beyond, spreading this message and helping to shape the way the public thinks about the university. Equally important, Changing What’s Possible challenges all of our internal constituents to focus their energies around building a brighter tomorrow for our state. The power of our message comes from its adoption in all aspects of what we do – from research, to education, to patient care – and from its constant repetition and reinforcement in all of our messages. I have asked the MUSC Communications Council to assure that our approved communications standards are followed. The Communications Standards website serves as a resource offering examples of appropriate use of the MUSC brand, sub-brands, associated logos, letterhead, positioning statement and more. These guidelines apply to all advertising, collateral, and web-based initiatives, and I ask your assistance in assuring their use in your areas of responsibility. The web link for the standards is http://www.musc.edu/communicationstandards For information, contact Business Development and Marketing Services at 792-6409, email brandmgr@musc.edu or the Print Shop at 792-8866, email universitypress@musc.edu. Thank you for all you do to build our reputation and for giving expression to our mission of Changing What’s Possible. With best regards, Ray Greenberg, M.D., Ph.D., MUSC president
The following employees received recognition through the Applause Program for going the extra mile: Medical Center
George Magrath, Ophthalmology; Ann Peterson, Safety & Security/Volunteer & Guest Srvs; Doris Thomas, Medical Records; Tawana Gadsden, Medical Records; John Carson, 10W; Bonnie Treado, Oncology & Medical/Surgical Srvs; Amanda Jolly, Radiology; Melissa Martin, Oncology & Medical/Surgical Srvs; Clarice Dorsey, Radiology; Kelly Lewis, Radiology; Jenny Keeter, 3W; Suzy Davis, Clinical Neurophysiology Srvs; Randall Smalls, Charleston Memorial Hospital; Vanessa Stewart, Safety & Security/ Volunteer & Guest Srvs; Melissa Leslie, GI Clinic; Melissa Youngblood, GI Clinic; Shaunisha Hampton, Meduflex Team; Suzanne Ramage, Safety & Security/ Volunteer & Guest Srvs; Dennis White, Safety & Security/Volunteer & Guest Srvs; Katie Johnson, Med/Surg ICU; John Ikonomidis, Surgery; Sam Jacks, Surgery; Adam Franklin, Residents Surgery; Gladney Brooks, CT Surgery; Amanda
McGarrigle, Respiratory Therapy; Virginia O’Connell, 9PCU; Diana Evans, 9PCU; Crystal Lindler, CTICU; Kristen Hottel, CTICU; Todd Dantzler, Gastroenterology & Hepatology; Mary Morgan, SEI; David Marcum, 6W; Sally Key, 6W; Ashley Sevier, 6W; Nancy Austin, 6E; Misty Kahmke, 6W; Melissa Parker, 6W; Terrie Hopkins, 6E; Edward Litwin, 6E; Terri Dunbar, 6W; Laura Droege, Otolaryngology; Melvena Nelson, Environmental Srvs; Barbara Kniceley, 8W; and Paul Herndon, Transplant Center.
University Valerie Assey, Infectious Diseases; Percilla Coaxum, University Press; Michelle Cunningham, Psychiatry; Joyce Freeman, Cardiology; Carly Freilich, Neurosciences, Monica Gardner, Neurosciences; Linda Hammill, Orthopaedic Surgery; Amber Houston, College of Dental Medicine; Emily Lynn, Surgery; Christopher Merrell, Orthopaedic Surgery; Steve McLawhorn, Engineering & Facilities; Allison Nissen, OB-GYN; Gloria Rivera, Purchasing; and Ollie Ross, University Press.
Diversity office seeking nominations for awards
MUSC’s Office of Student Diversity is accepting nominations for the Earl B. Higgins Awards 2012. Established to honor a former director of minority affairs, the award acknowledges persistence and dedication to positive contributions to diversity enhancement on campus. Submissions must be received by 5 p.m., Feb. 3. The form may be downloaded from http:// academicdepartments.musc.edu/diversity/earlbhiggins. html/. Electronic submissions to burnham@musc.edu are recommended. However, packets may also be submitted via fax and mail. Winners will be announced March 2. For information, call Willette Burnham at 792-2146 or email burnham@musc.edu.
The Catalyst will not be published Dec. 30 or Jan. 6 and will resume publication Jan. 13. For information, call The Catalyst at 792-4107 or e-mail catalyst@musc.edu. For advertising information, call Island Publications at 849-1778 or email sales@ moultrienews.com.
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4 The CATAlysT, December 23, 2011
Award reveals Darby’s passion for children
By dAwn BrAzell Public Relations
A plaque with the saying ‘You can’t build a reputation on what you’re going to do,’ hangs outside the office of Charles Darby Jr., M.D. Building a reputation is something Darby doesn’t have to worry about. Armed with a charming Southern manner and an impassioned drive to improve children’s health, Darby smiles uncomfortably about being the recent recipient of the Jerry Zucker Lifetime Achievement Award. “I feel a little awkward about it. The pleasure and satisfaction one derives from community service is enough of an award. Besides this lifetime aspect has a sort of terminal ring — like it’s all over.” Darby did try retiring when he stepped down as chair of MUSC’s Department of Pediatrics in 2001 — the year he received the Order of the Palmetto, the state’s highest award. He took up golf but it wasn’t long before boredom set in. He was missing purpose in his life. He knew too much about the needs of children and had too much experience in administrative, legislative and philanthropic circles to sit idly by. After all, this is the pediatrician who founded MUSC’s Children’s Hospital in 1987 and the man who has helped generate more than $101 million in philanthropic funding for pediatrics programs in the past 30 years. He recently helped secure a $1 million donation for The Boeing Center for Promotion of Healthy Lifestyles in Children and Families. He has been instrumental in ensuring that the Charles P. Darby Jr. Children’s Research Institute, one of only 15 of its kind in the nation, moves forward in generating life-saving research to benefit children. Darby now serves as the executive director of the Center for Child Advocacy that provides a variety of government relations, advocacy, and development services in support of the MUSC Children’s Hospital. The center also provides management services to the South Carolina Children’s Hospital Collaborative, a nonprofit
Known as a visionary, Dr. Charles Darby Jr. looks forward to planning for MUSC’s new children’s hospital.
“He isn’t afraid of the best in others. He truly is a first class Southern gentleman with a great deal of integrity and one who is kind, generous and deeply committed to children.” Dena Hughes association consisting of the state’s four children’s hospitals. Advocacy work isn’t as satisfying to him as working one-on-one with children and families, but he knows it’s where he
can do the most good. “It is not the most exciting, nor is it what I was trained to do, but it is rewarding when you can help get funds like the cigarette tax passed and dedicated to health. It is very important to work with public leaders, especially those at Medicaid, to ensure that children’s health services are adequately funded. Without advocates, children have no voice in public decisions.” Currently, his No. 1 priority is the building of a new children’s hospital. Today, the Children’s Hospital has more than 180 physicians and surgeons who are specially trained to care for children – a stark contrast from the five physicians providing services 50 years ago. “We need a new children’s hospital and the sooner we get it the better. Right now we have great staff, and the new chair is top notch. We have fantastic pediatric and thoracic surgeons. We want to remain competitive in recruiting pediatric specialists. If you don’t have a good
facility, they’re not going to take a second look.” Darby is not about to let that happen. Dena Hughes, program manager for the advocacy center, has worked directly for him since 1999 and describes Darby as an applied visionary. “Usually visionaries can’t bring it down to the real world level, but he doesn’t have that problem. He is just as capable and committed to implementing a dream as he is of dreaming the dream.” He knows how to cross ideology, party lines, and agendas to always keep his focus on what’s best for children’s health, which enables him to succeed where others fail, she said. His goal has always been to recruit the best and the brightest and he is particularly excited about the leadership of Rita Ryan, M.D., who became chair of the Department of Pediatrics in July. Hughes said his philosophy has always
See Darby on page 14
The CATAlysT, December 23, 2011 5
Meet Brandon
Happy Holidays & Happy New Year Thank you for making the Bee Street Lofts the residence of choice for MUSC and Roper St. Francis medical professionals.
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Favorite sport Tennis Vice I am a big candy eater. Especially sour, gummy candies — I eat them all day long. A must-have in the pantry Apple Jacks cereal Greatest moment Finishing the Louisville Derby Festival Marathon in three hours and 36 minutes Favorite place in the world Oahu, Hawaii Last book read “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows” Nickname in high school B-Rok Unique talent I sing classical music and opera Favorite college sports team University of Kentucky Wildcats
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6 The CATAlysT, December 23, 2011
Currents deC. 20 People – Fostering employee pride and loyalty
Employee of the Month Toni Mullins, Clinical Neurophysiology Services technologist, was recognized for her patient care and team support in Clinical Neurophysiology Services. She serves on the department’s growth committee, manages bulletin board communications and other activities.
HR update Helena Bastian, MUHA HR director, presented the following: q PEER interview team members: Ensure that each member has attended training; and allow time for members to prepare for interviews. q Mango: Managers are asked to review and update Mango info as necessary. q HSL Conversations are due by the end of February. q Payroll reminders — ESL Maximum: cut-off date, Dec. 31, plus accrual ESL; PTO Maximum: The 2011 yearly cut-off date is the pay period ending date that includes the Dec. 31 workday; PTO Carryover: An employee having more than 360 PTO hours at the pay period ending Dec. 31, plus the accrual for that pay period will need to consider their excess of 360 PTO hours that will be deducted. The leave cut off will be reflected in the Jan. 11 pay date; ESL Carryover: Employees hired prior to July 1, 2000, maximum ESL carryover into 2012 is 1,440 hours; employees hired on or after July 1, 2000, maximum ESL carryover into 2012 is 720 hours q SML Eligibility and accrual method for January: Eligible employees must have 55 hours of accrued ESL by the last pay of the calendar year. For the purpose of this policy, the last pay period is the pay period which includes Dec. 31 which for 2011, the payroll ending date would be Dec. 31 (includes ESL accrual for payroll ending Dec. 31); Employees will automatically have up to 12 ESL
hours transferred to SML, which will be reflected in the Jan. 11 pay date; SML balance may not exceed 24 hours (Employees with more than 24 hours balance as of Dec. 31 will not be eligible to transfer additional hours. Balances exceeding 24 hours will not be decreased or cut off). q Holiday meal ticket: Available to employees who work on an actual holiday receive a meal ticket. Beginning with the Christmas Day holiday, meal tickets will be valid for 30 days from the date of the holiday. Email mastelbv@ musc.edu.
Finance – Providing the highest value to patients while ensuring financial stability
Steve Hargett, medical center controller, gave the financial report for the five month period ending Nov. 30 fiscal year (FY) 2012 and FY 2011. The year to date net income through November was $8.8 million and cash is $37 million or 14.2 days cash on hand. The numbers were reduced compared to October’s cash levels, $58.9 million and 22.4 days cash on hand. Costs on a volume-adjusted basis showed that costs were up by 1 percent compared to November 2010. All signs show an upward trend in building cash through increased volume and controlling costs using the hospital’s 5 & 5 cost savings plan and other strategies. It’s anticipated that December’s projected profit will be positive and get the enterprise closer to budget.
Service – Serving the public with compassion, respect and excellence
Dave Neff, Ambulatory Care Services administrator, updated managers on the status of implementing the
To Medical Center Employees At the Dec. 20 management communications meeting I gave an overview of the clinical enterprise strategic plan. Of significance, the process to develop this plan involved leadership from throughout the MUSC clinical enterprise including the College of Medicine, MUSC Physicians (formerly referred to as UMA), and MUHA. One of the foundations of our strategic plan is the three clinical enterprise entities must be closely aligned for decision-making as we move forward. The strategic intent set forth by the plan is to be among the top 25 academic medical centers for reputation, quality, service, efficiency and financial performance by 2015. We engaged the Beckham Company, a highly regarded healthcare strategy company, to assist us with the planning process which began about six months ago. Numerous group sessions were held and personal interviews were conducted with nearly 100 key stakeholders throughout the clinical enterprise. The plan was presented to our Board of Trustees for approval at their recent meeting. The plan translates the conceptual to seven driving strategies. The strategies include: align the clinical enterprise; expand brand awareness and market leadership; increase access and capacity; grow primary care and outpatient services; establish statewide partnerships or affiliations; build human and financial capital to fuel growth; and intensify investment in information and communication systems. These strategies involve 44 action-oriented tactics. The clinical enterprise strategic plan will not be put on a shelf. It will be a “living plan” and fine tuned as we move forward. Current goals and initiatives such as the 5 and 5 cost reduction efforts, MUSC Excellence and the Magnet journey will serve to support the plan. A steering team will provide oversight and a coordinating team will ensure sustained progress. Strategy leaders and tactical leaders will be accountable for implementation and reporting on progress. An update will be given at each Board of Trustees meeting. As we move forward, the objectives of the strategic plan will be incorporated into our goals and performance evaluations. Strategic plan activities and results will be routinely communicated through management communications meetings, newsletters, town hall meetings and other forums. A website will soon be established so all employees can keep abreast of progress. We have much to be excited about as we wrap up this calendar year and look to the future. In recent years MUSC has achieved numerous distinctions for our quality and compassionate care. We have a strong foundation to build upon as we work toward our vision to be recognized as a premier academic medical center. Have a happy and safe holiday season. W. Stuart Smith Vice President for Clinical Operations and Executive Director, MUSC Medical Center hospital’s new Patient Transport Services program. Neff reported that since Patient Transport Services was activated Dec. 6, the program has provided more than 3,400 patient transports. Services are available at Rutledge Tower, HCC, University Hospital, the Children’s Hospital and ART. Neff praised the work of Tyler Nance and Nancy Hendry, co-project directors, dispatchers and patient transporters, unit and clinical nursing staff and many hospital departments supporting this project. Neff indicated that he and project leaders will be evaluating the service throughout the coming weeks by soliciting suggestions
and recommendations from staff and implementing improvements as needed. MUSC Excellence website Julie Floyd, Institutional Relations, reminded managers that a copy of all presentations conducted at the bimonthly hospital communications meetings will be posted to the MUSC Excellence website via the MUHA intranet, http://mcintranet.musc.edu/ muscexcellence/communications/ comm_mtgs/index.htm. Announcements q The next meetings are Jan. 10 and Jan. 24.
The Catalyst, December 23, 2011 7
MUSC joins elite group of national depression centers
Artists and medical professionals prone to depression have reason to celebrate. The issue will be an area of focus and research for the MUSC’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. It recently joined the National Network of Depression Centers (NNDC), which links together more than 20 leading medical centers across the country working to improve the lives of those struggling with depression. The department received this designation given its national reputation as a leader in depression research and a commitment to advancing knowledge and care of patients with depression. The network brings together leading depression centers and academic medical centers to transform the field of mood disorders, thus making diagnosis and treatment more affordable, accessible and acceptable. Creating similar networks in other disease specialties, such as the National Cancer Institute, has been tremendously successful in advancing understanding of disease as well as improving treatments and reducing stigma. By creating a similar national network of leading depression centers, systematic data can be shared with experts at those centers, while each multidisciplinary center will offer a unique area of
depression expertise and future research. MUSC’s unique contributions to the national network includes the university’s Comprehensive Depression Center (CDC), providing expertise in the areas of brain stimulation methods in the treatment of mood disorders and pain, depression in medical disease, women’s reproductive bio-behavioral health, and brain and creativity, a novel concept in terms of better understanding the artistic community and their mental well-being. “When you look across people with great creativity, there seems to be an increased prevalence of addiction and depression problems,” said Thomas Uhde, M.D., chairman of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Services, executive director of the Institute of Psychiatry, and interim CDC director. “It could be that great creativity lives within a part of the brain that overlaps the brain regions responsible for mood and anxiety. Anecdotally, clinicians struggle to treat these people because the trade-off for successful treatment is sometimes what the patients complain about as a loss of their creative edge.” He said that these creative patients seem to have higher rates of relapse and suicide as a result. The idea behind this approach is to bring together clinicians
with an interest in finding ways to treat artistic people who suffer from depression or substance abuse without damaging their creative inclinations. One initiative of the brain and creativity area will be to introduce the university’s dedication to understanding these disorders into the arts community. The purpose in forming a task force on the brain and creativity is to demonstrate a partnership between the providers and those who struggle. “The first step will be to establish baseline measures, but ultimately we want to see if we can find ways to treat talented and creative people in a way that enhances that part of them, not take away from it.” Uhde thinks the work could also translate into depression research related to medical professionals, a group that is well known to have high rates of depression and suicide but is often reluctant to seek mental health treatment for a myriad of reasons. “Who’s helping the helpers? I think MUSC in particular is well poised to further this research because we have several colleges that we could work with right here on campus to implement community outreach education about depression amongst care providers,” he said. For information, visit http://www.nndc.org.
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8 The CATAlysT, December 23, 2011
chAnging whAt’s PossibLe
e vents New pharmacy dean Philip D. Hall, PharmD, is the campus dean on the MUSC campus of the South Carolina College of Pharmacy. Jan. 28 Islet cell transplant The 50th islet cell transplant took place Jan. 31. MUSC is the second busiest autologous islet cell transplant center in the country. Feb. 4
Spin-off company SimTunes offers patient simulation educational material developed at MUSC’s Health Care Simulation of South Carolina through SimStore on the Internet. March 18 Lung transplant program
Melody valve MUSC becomes first center in the state to be approved to have the Melody transcatheter valve procedure that helps patients with either damaged or absent valves in the pulmonary position. March 4
Best grad school Eleven MUSC programs ranked in the top 100 spots for the U.S. News Media Group’s 2012 edition of America’s Best Graduate Schools. April 1 VIR clinic The Vascular Interventional Radiology (VIR) outpatient clinic is shared by cardiology, vascular and gastrointestinal surgery. April 8
VP for academic affairs, provost Mark S. Sothmann, Ph.D., is MUSC’s vice president of academic affairs and provost. Feb. 25 Pharmacy ranking Rankings by the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy show the S.C. College of Pharmacy to be No. 3 nationally in percent of research faculty with National Institutes of Health funding. March 4
blood flow to the lower extremities for patients suffering from peripheral artery disease. April 1
MUSC revives its lung transplant program. Above, Dr. William M. Yarbrough, checks on patient Evin Evans. The program completes the one missing piece of a well-established, multiorgan transplant center and means that organs can remain in state for patients awaiting transplants. March 25 Implant stent system MUSC became one of the first centers to implant the MISAGO Self-expanding Stent System, as part of a clinical trial evaluating the system’s ability to improve
Explore MUSC Explore MUSC, an app to reach prospective students who embrace the technology of the iPhone and iPad, can be downloaded for free. April 22 Gene therapy for Alzheimer ’s MUSC’s first patient to undergo brain surgery March 29 was part of a clinical trial to see the effectiveness of a new type of gene therapy treatment for patients with Alzheimer’s
disease. April 29 Rehabilitation center MUSC’s Center for Rehabilitation Research in Neurological Conditions is expected to reshape the way rehabilitation therapy is done for a variety of neurological conditions, including stroke, spinal cord injury and cerebral palsy. May 13 Doctorate nursing program The College of Nursing’s doctorate in nursing practice program welcomes its first graduating class. May 20 Boeing investment MUSC Children’s Hospital will use a $1 million charitable investment from The Boeing Company to establish a community-based center aimed at promoting better health among the state’s children. May 27 Children’s heart program MUSC Children’s Hospital once again made it into the top 20 hospitals for children’s heart programs in U.S. News Media Group’s 2011 edition of America’s Best Children’s Hospitals, achieving a rank of No. 17. June 7 Endowed chair One of the nation’s leading cancer drug
The CATAlysT, December 23, 2011 9
2011 YeAr in review
researchers, Patrick Woster, Ph.D., joins the S.C. College of Pharmacy where he helps lead the Center of Economic Excellence in Cancer Drug Discovery as the SmartState Endowed Chair in Medicinal Chemistry. June 3 Popular medical school MUSC College of Medicine was among the 10 most popular medical schools in the country according to a May U.S. News & World Report. June 10 Green campus MUSC wins community and national awards for its recycling and sustainability efforts. June 24
PHOTOS from left: MUSC staff oversees the infusion of islet cells into a patient’s liver. A stented valve is expanded into position under fluoroscopy. Dr. Michael Sweat gets water using a hand pump during his research in Africa. Dr. Cameron Nott gives a demonstration in a lab at the Center for Rehabilitation Research. The Clyburn center held its grand opening Oct. 28. Dr. Louis Guillette uses his photography skills to augment his work in the field.
Fitts-Raja endowed chair
in philanthropic gifts and pledges. Aug. 5
Prabhakar Baliga, M.D., is the Fitts-Raja Endowed Chair in Transplant Surgery. July 1
CARES clinic expansion
Chandler ’s Law MUSC employees work with the S.C. legislature to pass Chandler’s Law. The law marks new safety rules for children on all-terrain vehicles. July 1 Translational cancer chair Igor Roninson, Ph.D., is the new South Carolina Centers for Economic Excellence Endowed Chair in Translational Therapeutics at the South Carolina College of Pharmacy. July 8 Global health Michael Sweat, Ph.D., helps MUSC meet its strategic global plans with his eight-year HIV study that was published in Online First “ The Lancet Infectious Diseases.” July 15 National ranking MUSC was named by U.S. News &World Report as one of the country’s best hospitals in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders and ear, nose and throat disorders. July 29 Philanthropic gifts MUSC received a record $82.8 million
Upstate class The South Carolina College of Pharmacy’s new Upstate campus in Greenville welcomed the inaugural class Aug. 26 Biomedical research grows MUSC achieved a record amount of research funding from outside sources topping $238 million. Aug. 26
The physical and occupational therapy after-hours clinic is the latest addition to the CARES clinic, a non-profit organization managed by medical and health profession students providing free medical care to the underserved, uninsured population. Aug. 5
JC diabetes certification The Joint Commission Advanced Impatient Diabetes Certification is awarded to the university hospital, Ashley River Tower, Institute of Psychiatry and the Children’s Hospital. Sept. 9
After-hours pediatric clinic MUSC’s Children’s Hospital opened an after-hours clinic in North Charleston July 22. The clinic is open seven days a week. Aug. 12
Peds surgery endowed chair Andre Hebra, M.D., is the H. Biemann Othersen Jr., M.D., Endowed Chair in Pediatric Surgery. Oct. 14
Endowed chair in proteomics Richard Drake, Ph.D., is the new SmartState Endowed Chair in Proteomics. Aug. 12 New pediatrics chair Rita Ryan, M.D., brings her extensive research background to the Department of Pediatrics chair. Aug. 12
Clyburn Research Center The James E. Clyburn Research Center consists of the Bioengineering and Drug Discovery buildings. Oct. 28 Heinz Award winner Louis Guillette, Ph.D., received a $100,000 Heinz Award for his pioneering research into toxic chemicals’ impact. Sept. 30
10 The CATAlysT, December 23, 2011
Transplant team reduces blood stream infection rate By Cindy ABole Public Relations
Transplant nurse manager Cindy Hough was unaware that the best clinical practices that her 6E team established would allow her to share it with an international group of nurses and colleagues. In mid-September Hough was able to share her team’s successes halfway across the world with other transplant nurses at the International Transplant Nurses Society’s (ITNS) 20th Annual International Transplant Nurses Society Symposium and General Assembly held in Sweden. Hough won a best poster abstract for quality improvement award for 6E’s best practice strategies. The practices resulted in reducing central-line associated bloodstream infections within a transplant and nephrology unit. The effort achieved two goals. One was the promotion of transplant nursing through establishing a local chapter of the society and the other was to support MUSC’s commitment to the S.C. Hospital Association’s effort to reduce blood stream infection (BSI) rates throughout the state. Hough, who has been the inpatient transplant unit’s
nurse manager since 2007, was introduced to the society by Transplant Service Line administrator Kim Phillips, who has been a member for more than 20 years. “The primary focus for ITNS is education for transplant professionals. I have utilized it as a resource for transplant-specific patient education resources that are available through this organization and ongoing training that’s unavailable locally,” said Hough. In 2009, Hough approached transplant nurse educator Debra Cassidy, staff nurse Mary Shearer and Infection Control practitioner Mary Allen to form the unit’s Stop BSI group with a plan to reduce the high prevalence of central-line infection rates. The group invited a multidisciplinary team, which included transplant surgeon Ken Chavin, M.D., respiratory therapists and pharmacists, to help champion their goals. For example the team incorporated daily goals into their bedside shift report. Each day the team would write the patient’s daily goal for care on a board in the patient’s room to communicate infection prevention needs to all clinical staff. The effort also allowed for patient education and involvement. Patients were educated to evaluate
Santa comes to town
themselves for weepy wounds, which is an indicator for a dressing change. Allen praised Hough and the staff for their efforts. “Unit staff embraced a dynamic culture change that increased teamwork and improved communications that led to best practices and overall results. I’m proud of their efforts and where they are today.” To date, 6E has reported no infections since 2009. Phillips also praised the unit’s achievements. “The 6East team has achieved significant outcomes related to patient satisfaction (they received two banner awards) and clinical outcomes related to significant reductions in BSI. These achievements have been accomplished while constructing a new unit, relocating and transferring back to its current location within a short time period.” He also praised Hough for her leadership, self motivation dedication and accomplishments for establishing a patient-centered environment. “Cindy and the 6East team have made vast improvements to patient care especially with the stop BSI and CLABSI infection rate improvements through the use of bedside shift reports and incorporated best practices. Their efforts have been outstanding.”
Student conference promotes diversity in health care community By dede BeArden Public Relations
Santa Claus gets some help in fitting a new red hat by Hollings Cancer Center's Rachel Feinberg with HCC’s Integrated Cancer Care. Santa and his present elves, Linda Mehann and Meaghan McNamara, were touring the Hollings facility after participating in the Dec. 9 MUSC Angel Tree Parade.
As the first black woman to graduate from the College of Medicine, Deloris Gibbs, M.D., is used to blazing trails. She shared some of her insights as the keynote speaker at the Student National Medical Association (SNMA) 2011 Region IV Conference held locally. After getting her doctorate, Gibbs went on to join the faculty of the Morehouse School of Medicine and to serve as the chief of medical operations with the Peace Corps of Washington, D.C. Gibbs was just one of the speakers to address the more than 150 premedical and medical students who attended the conference, sponsored by SNMA and the College of Medicine, Nov. 18 - 20. The conference rotates each year among different SNMA chapters. The purpose of the annual regional conference is to facilitate networking and the formation of relationships within SNMA. Another goal of the conference is to promote one of the fundamental ideas of SNMA — community service.
The theme was titled, "Empowering the Community through Education and Service." Speakers, workshops, and forums were selected to focus on the attributes of community service and education. Stuart Hamilton, M.D., founder of the Eau Claire Cooperative Health Center in Columbia, was the featured speaker for the luncheon. Two MUSC third-year students served as conference co-chairs, Jacqueline Savage and Rahim Wooley. Wooley said the event facilitates networking and community service. “It brings together all of the schools of the region to strengthen ties to understand how to better serve the community.” The SNMA Region IV conference also gave MUSC an opportunity to recruit prospective students and residents, said Etta Pisano, M.D., dean of the College of Medicine. During the welcome reception, Pisano encouraged the attendees to consider MUSC's excellent medical education and residency programs as they reflect on the next steps in their educational endeavors and career goals.
The CATAlysT, December 23, 2011 11
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12 The CATAlysT, December 23, 2011
Employee wellness marks year’s accomplishments
Here we are, just a few days until Christmas, and it’s my last column for 2011. As I reflect back on this past year, I am amazed at what we have accomplished. The mission of MUSC Employee Wellness is to create a culture of wellness by integrating activities, resources and policies that support health and wellness at work. We attempt to fulfill this mission through strategies related to education, awareness, policy, environment and behavior in all areas of wellness. We have implemented Susan Johnson many programs and initiatives in each area. The following features some of the highlights. q Physical Activity and Fitness — The fitness series offers employees the opportunity to visit the wellness center four times each month to take a variety of free classes. We also hosted several fitness related events, including a Fitness Fair, ZumbaFest, START! Walking Day and Bike to Work Day. q Nutrition — MUSC’s farmers market and Community Supported Agriculture program provides employees with a convenient way to purchase fresh produce. We help employees with weight management through the promotion of
Health at work
MUSC programs such as the Healthy Charleston Challenge, Lunchtime Losers and Healthy Happy Hour. Special events include National Nutrition Month, START! Eating Healthy Day, MUSC Eats!, Healthy Holiday Live!, and a new project — the MUSC Community Garden. q Tobacco Cessation — MUSC Employee Wellness is focused on helping employees who use tobacco find ways to quit, on increasing knowledge of lung heath, and on raising awareness about the importance of establishing a tobaccofree workplace. To support employees who would like to quit smoking, we are planning many classes and clinics free of charge at MUSC. q Preventative Screenings and Assessments — We provide screenings to MUSC employees, many free of charge to help them identify health risks and take steps to prevent illness and disease. A new event, Holistic Wellness Fair, provided employees with the opportunity to interact with businesses and practitioners who offer natural approaches to health and specialize in a array of complementary health and wellness disciplines. q S.C. Working Well — Probably the most exciting project is our involvement in South Carolina Working Well. It is a three-year, $1.2 million grant funded by The Duke Endowment aimed at helping hospitals in S.C. reduce chronic disease associated with tobacco use, poor nutrition, physical inactivity and obesity.
Loaded with surprises Children's Hospital patient La'Corea Watkins, 9, reacts with surprise after opening up a new pair of hot pink sneakers from Santa and his elves from the Boeing Motorcycle Club. The group brought packages of toys for 10 sickle cell clinic patients.
MUSC was among eight hospitals from across the state named as Centers of Excellence. These facilities were chosen as Centers of Excellence because of the innovative leadership and commitment to wellness. Wellness events q Tobacco Free Tuesdays: One-session classes created to provide employees and
students the opportunity to learn about cessation options during their lunch break. Classes are at noon every other Tuesday beginning Jan. 3. Email musc-empwell@musc.edu. q The Institute of Psychiatry is offering a free, one-hour Quit Smoking class from noon to 1 p.m. Jan. 5 at the Center for Drug
and Alcohol Programs 4-North. q Smoking Cessation Clinics: Monthly threesession cessation clinics facilitated by rained staff that is free of charge for MUSC employees, students and family members. Classes begin Jan. 9. Email muscempwell@musc.edu to register.
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Israeli partnership to promote stem cell research Frontiers in Cardiovascular Regeneration symposium marks new age of discovery
Imagine a day when doctors can use a patient’s own skin cells to make old hearts young again, grow a new heart valve or restore an irregular heartbeat without a pacemaker. That day is closer than you think. Scientists and researchers from across the globe convened at MUSC’s new Bioengineering Building to mark the first international symposium regarding cardiovascular regeneration. MUSC President Ray Greenberg, M.D., Ph.D., and Dr. Rafael Beyar, chief executive officer and director general of Rambam Health Care Campus, signed a memorandum of understanding for further collaboration among the medical university and the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology and the Rambam Health Care Campus, located in Haifa, Israel. The symposium launches a broader, long-term research partnership between
scientists in Israel and Charleston in the pursuit of scientific breakthroughs in stem cell research. Some of the innovations the universities will collaborate on include: q Create new skin, muscle and organs to replace failing ones; q Restore a regular heartbeat, without a mechanical pacemaker; q Replace tissues damaged during a heart attack; and q Repair a weakened artery, thereby preventing a ruptured aneurysm. By collaborating, American and Israeli scientists enhance the possibility for bilateral National Institutes of Health funding and accelerate development of patentable, therapeutic techniques that can be taken to market. Under the terms of the partnership, two-way information sharing will take place through visiting professorships, working sabbaticals, joint grant applications, shared educational programs, joint research projects and annual symposia where findings can be shared and further explored. Charleston Mayor Joe Riley
Drs. Ray Greenberg and Rafael Beyar from Israel sign a memorandum of understanding for further collaboration among the medical university and the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology and the Rambam Health Care Campus. proclaimed Nov. 17 -18 as “MUSCTechnion-Rambam Collaboration Days” in the City of Charleston, urging
all residents to join in recognizing the potential this joint research effort brings to the area.
MUSC offers academic, clinical seminar to Chinese delegation
MUSC officials welcome Chinese delegation to campus.
The Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, sister hospital to MUSC, sent a delegation of eight senior physicians, nurses and administrators to participate in the inaugural Academic, Clinical & Cultural Seminar. The seminar, hosted by MUSC President Ray Greenberg, M.D., Ph.D., and Thomas Hulsey, Sc.D., offered an opportunity for the institutions to reestablish their historical connections, and for participants to identify areas of possible collaboration between the two hospitals. During this seminar, participants engaged in an introduction to clinical trials at MUSC, interacted with physicians, researchers and administration from various areas of the university, toured the facilities and became acquainted with the history
and culture of Charleston. Lisa Frawley, program coordinator of the Global Education Program, said it’s an exciting step. “This widespread exposure has opened the door for collaborative opportunities on many different levels, and we are looking forward to seeing our relationship blossom in the years to come.” Prior to this seminar, Hulsey and Daniel Lackland, DrPH, went to Suqian People’s Hospital Nov. 7. They visited the hospital to review the historical linkages between MUSC and the Suqian municipality in the Jiangsu province of China to discuss current and future academic and medical collaborations and exchange programs. They also visited the historical and scenic venues of Suqian.
14 The CATAlysT, December 23, 2011
getting into the sPirit
Top photo: Pain Management’s Linda McDonald, left, and Jayne Quinn decorate as part of the Rutledge Tower Annex’s contest. Each year Pharmacy Services decorates for the holiday season. This year, the fifth floor of the annex got involved. The Christmas village scenes include reindeer stables (left photo), a toy shop and wrapping station, Santa and the elves, and Frosty. Participating in the contest are Pharmacy Business Office, Pediatric Burn Service, Children’s Hospital Administration and Pain Management Resources.
dArBy Continued from Page Four been to recruit the very best, provide them with all the tools they need, and encourage their success. “He isn’t afraid of the best in others. He truly is a first class Southern gentleman with a great deal of integrity and one who is kind, generous and deeply committed to children.” Darby likes to surround himself with others who also have children’s health and welfare as their passion. He’s pleased with the board members who serve the Children’s Hospital. “We have a great, active board that understand the need and enjoy serving. What better cause is there than the health of children?” He looks forward to the next five years at the Darby institute, given the potential in pediatric research. He’d like to see more work done in pediatric cardiology. “We’ve done a great job in repairing children’s hearts, but I don’t think we’ve even made a start in preventing heart disease in children.” Other areas he’d like to see targeted are autism and the prevention of low
birth-weight babies — an area in which it has been hard to improve outcomes. Child abuse, one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity, is another problem area. “We have some terrible outcomes. We have too many shaken babies with severe brain damage. There is tremendous opportunity to improve in these and many other areas.” In his free time, Darby likes to be with family. He and his wife, Joyce, have five children and 16 grandchildren. He balances his part-time work with making time for them. Darby said he considered volunteer work in Africa, but felt he could be more effective here at home — whether it’s pushing for research, legislation, facilities or staff recruitment. “I always think of children as being our most precious gift and I believe that society is judged by how well we take care of our children.” For information on the Children’s Hospital, visit http://www.musckids. com/index.htm. For information on the advocacy center, visit http://clinicaldepartments. musc.edu/pediatrics/advocacy/.
in memorY
Laura Mode Lail , a nurse coordinator, died Jan. 23. Feb. 4 Phanor Perot Jr. , Ph.D., served as chairman of MUSC’s Department of Neurological Surgery from 1968 to 1997. He died Feb. 2. March 11 Glen Askins, M.D., College of Health Professions professor and clinical services department chair, died May 2. May 27 Bill Rust, manager of technical services and a certified project management professional in the Office of the OCIO-Information Services, died May 4. June 3 Renan P. Uflacker, M.D., professor of medicine and director of the Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, died June 12. June 17 Mar vin Brown, an employee at MUSC’s STAR Ladson/Children’s Day Treatment Program, died July 9. July 22 Melvyn Berlinsky, whose 40-year tenure on the board of trustees spanned MUSC’s ascent from a state university hospital to a leading national academic health sciences center, died Nov. 4. Nov. 11
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