Many hands, one Mission
Providence Health & Services California Region 2009 Community Benefit Report www.providence.org
Our Mission As people of Providence,
we reveal God’s love for all, especially the poor and vulnerable, through our compassionate service.
Our Core Values Respect
All people have been created in the image of God. – Genesis 1:27 We welcome the uniqueness and honor the dignity of every person. We communicate openly and we act with integrity. We develop the talents and abilities of one another.
Compassion
Justice
Excellence
Stewardship
Jesus taught and healed with compassion for all. – Matthew 4:24
This is what the Lord requires of you: act with justice, love with kindness and walk humbly with your God. – Micah 6:8
Much will be expected of those who are entrusted with much. – Luke 12:48
The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it. – Psalm 24:1
We reach out to people in need and give comfort as Jesus did. We nurture the spiritual, physical and emotional well-being of one another and those we serve. We embrace those who are suffering.
We set the highest standards for ourselves and for our ministry.
We believe that everything entrusted to us is for the common good.
We strive to remove the causes of oppression.
We strive to transform conditions for a better tomorrow while serving the needs of today.
We strive to care wisely for our people, our resources and our earth.
We join with others to work for the common good and to advocate for social justice.
We celebrate and encourage the contributions of one another.
We seek simplicity in our lives and in our work.
We believe everyone has a right to the basic goods of the earth.
Volunteer Work for Valley Seniors
5
Creating Opportunity for Physical Activity
10
Faith Community Nurses
6
Patient Navigators Helping Those in Need
14
Embracing America, Learning Her Language
7
Mobile Clinic Serves Children in Need
15
The Children’s Health Insurance Program
8
2009 Community Investment
16
Greetings One of the most trying years in our nation’s recent history is behind us, one that truly underscored the importance of outreach efforts of Providence Health & Services, California, to bring health care services to the most vulnerable - the sick, the poor, the elderly and the families struggling with job losses. The global recession also highlighted the importance of partnering with our government leaders, industry, nonprofit agencies, our own Providence family of physicians, nurses and volunteers, and the communities we serve to ensure help for those most in need. It is especially important during challenging times to adhere to our core values: Excellence, Compassion, Justice, Respect and Stewardship. Our numerous community benefit programs, inspired by our founding Sisters, are built on those ideals as we provide the best for our less fortunate neighbors, utilizing a variety of resources. In 2009, we saw tremendous progress in our efforts to expand access to uninsured adults through the Vasek Polak Health Clinic, which had a 60 percent increase in patient visits. Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance was one of just two California nonprofits chosen by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to receive funding to assist parents in enrolling their children in subsidized health insurance. In our Valley Service Area, we were proud to partner with Dr. Glenn Lopez whose mobile van provides preventative health care, screenings and follow-up to low-income areas of the eastern San Fernando Valley. We worked with our local congressman to upgrade our tattoo removal program, gaining federal funding to help young men and women shed anti-social tattoos through a program with proven social benefits. By engaging stakeholders – our local churches, schools, physician groups and others – these programs will be sustained. At the same time, we pledge to monitor the pulse of the community to see what new programs might be necessary. Thanks to our Providence family and to our supporters, Providence Health & Services flourishes, never wavering in our tradition of quality and compassionate care.
Arnold R. Schaffer Chief Executive
Colleen Settles, OP, D. Min Chief Mission Integration Officer
Providence Health & Services 2009 Community Benefit Report [ page 3 ]
Many hands, one Mission
In the spirit of true teamwork, the People of Providence reached out in 2009, extending their many hands in living one Mission. Their targets were the poor and the vulnerable –elderly men and women, children living in poverty, troubled young people trying to turn their lives around and a surge in the number of families with no health care, struggling to survive a brutal economy. In many cases, Providence Health & Services community benefit programs teamed with one another or with partners in the community to help those in need. In all cases, People of Providence shared their time, talents and humanity, revealing God’s love for all.
Providence Health & Services 2009 Community Benefit Report [ page 4 ]
Driven to Help their Peers
Reaching Out to the Community
Minnette Wilson was the first volunteer to sign up 12 years ago
Miriam Hernandez of the Latino Health Promoter Program
when the Senior Outreach Program was established, and today,
found relief for Sandra Sanchez, in pain and in need. Sandra
at 95, she is the oldest of 30 Senior Peer Counselors. Minnette
had a terrible toothache, but no dental insurance. Miriam was
doesn’t get out of her Sherman Oaks home too often and her
able to link her to MEND – Meeting Each Need with Dignity – a
eyesight isn’t what it used to be, but she remains determined
charity that saw its client list multiply as Los Angeles County’s
to help seniors – some young enough to be her own children –
unemployment rate surpassed 10 percent. Along with a busy
who rely on Senior Outreach services provided by the Providence
food bank and clothing program, MEND has a dental program
Center for Community Health Improvement in North Hollywood.
that gave Sandra the help she needed.
Volunteer Work for Valley Seniors
Sharing Resources to Benefit those in Need
Providence outreach programs, Latino Health Promoters in
The specially-trained peer counselors are part of a larger group of 150 kind-hearted, Mission-driven men and women of all ages who reach out to the elderly, helping them manage their simple needs.
particular, refer clients to MEND and People of Providence have opened their hearts to the organization by providing food for its pantry shelves and school supplies for the youngsters it helps. Volunteer Peer Counselors from Providence provide counseling to MEND clients and the two organizations work together to address any problems that surface. The partnership works because the volunteers often are from the communities where they are providing services. They help
Minnette is part of a strong volunteer team that help San Fernando Valley seniors in need, coordinating efforts to check on them regularly, providing peer counseling and arranging transportation to doctors appointments and other errands. “A lot of my counselors are in their 80s, and they’ve been with us for years,” said Carolyn Young, Supervisor of Senior Services. “They understand the challenges many face, especially right now with the rising costs of housing, medicine and food. The volunteers are trained to offer supportive counseling and help refer them to services where they can get the help they need.
those in need open up and seek the help they need to deal with traumatic problems including immigration issues, domestic violence, legal cases and discipline problems with their children. Latino Health Promoters serve immigrants in the Valley Service Area, providing a range of health care services and referrals. One outreach campaign truly saves lives. The very grateful mother of a 9-year-old girl told Jenny Rosales, a Providence Faith Community Nurse, that the Chagas disease screening program saved her daughter from the potentially fatal parasitic infection. The disease is common in Central America and parts of Mexico and caused by a bug bite. The effects can lie dormant
The specially-trained peer counselors are part of a larger group
for decades, but left untreated Chagas can lead to heart and
of 150 men and women of all ages who reach out to the
gastrointestinal problems and even death. Early detection allows
elderly, helping them manage their simple needs. B.J. Valencia,
for treatment.
who coordinates the Valley Service Area’s volunteer program for seniors, said these volunteers drive seniors to doctor
To learn more, call (818) 847-3983.
appointments, do their grocery shopping, do tasks around their homes, help with their mail and, most importantly, spend time with them. This crew provides a lifeline for so many seniors who see their independence dwindling because they no longer drive or, perhaps, their eyesight or other faculties are diminishing. To learn more, call (818) 847-3845.
Providence Health & Services 2009 Community Benefit Report [ page 5 ]
Meeting Health Care Needs in their Neighborhoods Faith Community Nurses
Five Emergency Department nurses at Providence Holy Cross
have a variety of needs. Cruz said the program is aimed at
trained as Faith Community Nurses, eager to reach out in
serving all denominations and that she is particularly interested
their communities to bring their special talents to the less
in connecting nurses with synagogues, especially in the
fortunate. Each was driven by different life experiences – from
predominantly Jewish neighborhoods served by the newest
Susan Ortiz, a former missionary who aspires to be a chaplain,
Providence ministry, Providence Tarzana Medical Center.
to Jennifer Dodson and Karen Muff, whose own personal tragedies drove them to help others. Also joining the training were Sue Baunsgard, and Suenett Watnick.
Some Faith Community Nurses provide preventative health screening at local churches, others work with seniors. Jennifer Dodson wants to help grieving parents like her deal
The five were linked by their work together at Providence
with the loss of a child. A nurse educator in the Emergency
Holy Cross, but share a bigger bond because they are among
Department, Dodson lost her toddler daughter in a home
the few who step forward to help those in need in their own
accident and wants to honor her child by serving other
neighborhoods. For Karen Muff, serving others fills her own
grieving parents.
need. She lost her 22-year-old son in a motorcycle accident and that, coupled with the passing of her mother, made her realize she wanted to help with outreach in her parish in Sylmar. One of her passions is increasing organ donorship, an issue that comes up frequently in the Emergency Department and an effort she hopes to see expand. Providence Health & Services’ Faith Community Nurse Partnership, formerly the Parish Nurse Program, encourages nurses seeking to satisfy their own spiritual needs to enroll in a certificate program to join the partnership, said Connie Cruz, the R.N. who coordinates the program from her office at the Providence Center for Community Health Improvement in North Hollywood. Optional training provides nurses with the tools to go into the community and connect with those who
Faith Community Nurses are eager to reach out in their communities to bring their special talents to the less fortunate.
Providence Health & Services 2009 Community Benefit Report [ page 6 ]
Suenette Watnik said her strong faith was formed from a tough childhood and from loving foster parents who made their home hers. She sees her own faith as a beacon that can help those suffering – whether they’re patients, their families, her co-workers or fellow church members – look to God for help, support and guidance. Helping people ensure their wishes are carried out when they’re incapacitated is Sue Baunsgard’s personal mission. As a faith community nurse, she wants to educate people about advance directives to ensure their wishes are met when circumstances are dire. That doesn’t mean not providing the best possible treatment, it means knowing when it’s time, she said. To learn more, call (818) 847-3890.
Embracing America, Learning Her Language Even Start Program
Every morning at 8 a.m., 30 adults arrive at Barton Hill
with others. But Lucila was determined to provide a good start
Elementary, children racing ahead. It’s another day at Even
for her youngest child. He needed to develop social skills that
Start, a program designed to improve literacy and early
would prepare him for Kindergarten. And he needed to learn
childhood education. Everyone seems happy. It’s educational,
English. When Lucila learned of the Even Start program, she
yes, but fun too.
enrolled both him and herself.
The kids are pre-Kindergarten age, from 0 to 5. They enjoy
Lucila loved it. As she learned English and new parenting
an early education program next door to their parents,
techniques, she encouraged Christopher to enjoy his own
learning age-appropriate skills and playing with their peers.
classes. Gradually, he began to trust the staff and other children,
Their parents sit down in their own classroom for a morning
relaxing enough to enjoy the art projects, games and books they read together.
Lessons are lively. As they work to memorize words, tenses and spellings, the students help one another, building networks of support. Laughter punctuates every class!
Lessons are lively. As they work to memorize words, tenses and spellings, the students help one another, building networks of support. Laughter punctuates every class! And at the end of the morning, little voices join the adult ones as parents and children come together for an hour of family literacy activities. They take their lessons home with them, too. Our lending library includes books the children choose again and again for bedtime stories. What a wonderful way for their parents to
of English as a Second Language. It is here that they learn skills to help them succeed in employment, in relationships with their children’s teachers, in helping build and
practice their new skills! Now, he races toward her at the end of each day to show
strengthen the community in their new American home.
her his newest craft. He pulls her toward the playground for
Just like the European immigrants of previous centuries, the
looks forward to a wonderful future for both him and her
Soto family came to these shores looking for a better life.
entire family. With her own improved English-speaking and
Originally from Mexico, the Sotos faced challenges similar to
writing skills, she hopes to find a good job. Her ultimate goal?
early European immigrants, including language and culture.
To send her children to college, where they will continue to
Fortunately, Providence Little Company of Mary Medical
learn to become responsible, caring citizens of the world.
Centers provided support through the Even Start program.
shared activities. Lucila is proud of her youngest child, and
To learn more, call (310) 257-3586.
Little Christopher pulls his mom toward his school door every morning. He can’t wait to see his friends, play games and learn new things. He loves coming! But it wasn’t always that way. In the beginning, he was withdrawn and isolated. At 3 years old, Christopher had never been away from his mother. He clung to her wherever they went, refusing to interact
Providence Health & Services 2009 Community Benefit Report [ page 7 ]
Drawing on Life’s Lessons to Promote Children’s Health Care The Children’s Health Insurance Program
It was the Summer of 1972 and the sun had not yet risen over
confide in Maria that they fear their child’s enrollment in health
the Sacramento Valley, but Maria Garibay, her parents, and 5
insurance will affect their pending citizenship application or they
younger siblings were already up and getting dressed. They had
will eventually have fees withdrawn from their social security.
a long day ahead of themselves picking melons in the fields. As
These myths are why Health Promoters like Maria are essential
the seasons changed, her parents moved the family between
to successfully enrolling children in health insurance programs.
the fields in Sacramento and the canneries in Wilmington,
She has been in their position, she has heard the myths, and
picking up whatever jobs they could to make ends meet. Maria
understands their fears. The difference now is that she is
knew the vagabond life was not for her; by the time she
educated and trained in the facts and can use her credibility
married, she and her husband decided to make Wilmington
with families to make sure they take advantage of the programs
their home. Although a familiar environment, she was often
and services to improve their children’s health.
separated from her family and left alone with little support to navigate the challenges of raising their children and struggling financially. More often than not they had no health insurance, so when someone in the family got sick they went to the nearest free clinic and waited for care.
Providence Little Company of Mary’s CHIP program works with trusted local organizations like schools, churches, clinics and businesses to enroll children in subsidized health insurance. Children are enrolled in comprehensive medical, dental and vision insurance for a monthly premium of $4-$24 depending
It has been over twenty years since Maria began her own family
on the family’s income level and what plan they choose. A
in Wilmington and her children are grown. Now her challenge
family of four with annual income up to $55,000 is eligible to
is to help people in her own community. Last year, she was
enroll their children up to age 18. Children must be California
hired as a Providence Little Company of Mary Health Promoter
residents and either a US citizen or US national. The parents’
as part of a new federal grant, the Children’s Health Insurance
immigration status does not matter. Providence Little Company
Program (CHIP). She helps parents in her community enroll their
of Mary’s goal is to enroll 1,600 children by the end of 2011.
children in health insurance programs. She helps parents like Wilmington resident Isabel, whom Maria sees daily bringing her son to school. Each time, Maria told her about the CHIPRA program and invited her to meet, but Isabel always turned her down. After 3 months, Isabel finally agreed to meet and now her two children are enrolled in Healthy Families. Parents
Providence Little Company of Mary’s CHIP program works with trusted local organizations like schools, churches, clinics and businesses to enroll children in subsidized health insurance.
Providence Health & Services 2009 Community Benefit Report [ page 8 ]
For more information on the program or to schedule a presentation by our staff please call us at (877) 567-7463.
Remote Area Medical
Providence Helps Serve Thousands As Congress debated health care reform in August 2009,
“We were honored to provide extensive diagnostic care
tens of thousands of uninsured Los Angeles area residents
for women and immunizations for children and adults,”
crowded The Forum in Inglewood for a week-long health
said Arnold Schaffer, Vice President and Chief Executive of
clinic that illustrated the nation’s critical need for medical and
Providence California. Our volunteer caregivers were deeply
dental services for the under-served.
moved by this opportunity to briefly touch the lives of so
In the crowds were the faces of the newly uninsured, those
many people in such desperate need.”
who had lost their jobs and their family health insurance in
Philip R. Schwarzman, M.D., an Emergency Department
the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression.
physician at Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center, spent
And the People of Providence stepped up to help. About a
an afternoon at RAM. Patients, he said, waited hours to
dozen physicians and nurses volunteered to provide check-
see doctors.
ups, screenings and vaccines.
“They came in with a variety of complaints, some acute,
The project was the Remote Area Medical (RAM), a
most of them chronic,” said Dr. Schwarzman. “They were
Tennessee-based nonprofit medical charity that expanded
people who had no access to medical care. They came from
its program of free health care to serve those in need in Los
all over L.A. These are people who are just getting by and
Angeles. Service was provided at no cost to the patient, the
they had an opportunity to get medical care. They camped
taxpayer or the government.
overnight. It was amazing to see the number of people just
“They never asked for our help, but when we learned about
waiting to get care.”
it, several physicians and nurses volunteered to help,” said
“There are so many people out there who don’t have access
Sister Colleen Settles, OP, Chief Mission Integration Officer
to medical care,” he said. “Helping where you can, it’s the
for Providence Health & Services, California. Providence
right thing to do.”
also sent its Partners for Healthy Kids Mobile Clinic from the South Bay Service Area to provide check-ups and immunizations. In all, 3,827 RAM volunteers provided 14,561 patient services to 6,344 patients.
Providence sent its Partners for Healthy Kids Mobile Clinic from the South Bay Service Area to provide check-ups and immunizations. In all, 3,827 RAM volunteers provided 14,561 patient services to 6,344 patients.
Providence Health & Services 2009 Community Benefit Report [ page 9 ]
Drawing on Lifes’ Lessons to Promote Children’s Health Creating Opportunity for Physical Activity (COPA) Fourth grade teacher John Scognamillo hated Physical
John now loves to play and interact with his kids outside
Education class. Growing up he was often picked last for
during P.E. “I am very proud to be part of COPA; proud
games and as the most overweight kid in class, he dreaded
of myself and thankful for the lessons I have learned. It
wearing his school’s mandated P.E. shorts. “I was the first
has been well worth the effort.” Barton Hill Elementary
grader who had to listen to the nurse shout out ‘110 pounds’
School Principal, Louie Mardesich is grateful for his school’s
while being weighed in front of my friends and I looked
partnership with Providence Little Company of Mary and
horrible as a heavy-set kid in our gym uniforms.”
the COPA program. He sees his school’s students excel in
But John loves to teach and thrives in the classroom as he interacts with his 9 and 10 year old students who eagerly listen to what he teaches them. His students are from Barton Hill Elementary School in San Pedro, an urban working class neighborhood. These kids live in neighborhoods that their parents don’t always think are the safest in which to play and so P.E. at school is often their only chance to be physically active. Even though John loves to teach, he doesn’t consider himself a “P.E.” teacher. John was paired with a Providence Little Company of Mary peer coach, Matthew Collette, a Physical Education Specialist who is a Providence Little Company of Mary employee. He met with Matt every other week for co-taught classes. He realized how
new activities outside of the classroom and sees the effects of their release of energy in the classroom where they are more focused. Mr. Mardesich comments, “The high level of engagement in COPA makes students forget they are even exercising. The instructors set the expectations from the beginning and implement exciting physical activities that all students enjoy. PE is no longer viewed as another kickball or sockball game.” Over 200 teachers, like John, in three public school districts have been trained in COPA. Kids are more active because COPA builds teachers’ skills, confidence, and support to get their children moving…and have fun while they are learning! To learn more, call (310) 257-3586.
much fun his students were having, and after two years John was taking his kids out on his own.
Providence Little Company of Mary also offers COPA: After School To reinforce the physical activity instruction that children
lifestyles in our community. Family Nights engage family
learn in COPA outside of the school environment, we
members in fun and educational activities that they can
developed COPA: After School. On the school grounds and
replicate at home. And Cardio Carnivals are fun for the
at home with family members the after school program
entire community. Parents say they see increases in physical
teaches and encourages physical activity to promote healthy
activity and confidence in their children as a result of COPA.
Providence Health & Services 2009 Community Benefit Report [ page 10 ]
Kids are more active because COPA builds teachers’ skills, confidence, and support to get their children moving‌ and have fun while they are learning!
Providence Health & Services 2009 Community Benefit Report [ page 11 ]
Leaving the Past Behind
Samuel Dixon Partnership
Things were OK for Alvaro Cortez when he wore long sleeves,
Behind-the-scenes of the ongoing battle over health care
but when it was time for T-shirts and tank tops, the collage
reform are the thousands of clients served by the Samuel Dixon
of tattoos on both his arms gave away the past he was trying
Family Health Centers in the Santa Clarita Valley where the
hard to overcome. In 2009, Cortez was in the midst of having
number of patients skyrocketed in 2009 as jobs were lost in the
the multi-colored links to gang and prison life erased through
worst recession in 80 years.
Providence Tattoo Removal Program
the free Tattoo Removal Program offered by Providence Health & Services at the Providence Center for Community Health Improvement in North Hollywood. “People don’t see me the same if they see my tattoos,” said Alvaro, who had a 7-year-old daughter and a job in a body shop.
Providing Services to Neighborhood Clinics
And Providence Health & Services was there to lend a hand. For four years, Providence has provided lab services, X-rays and imaging for Dixon clinic patients, a contribution of more than $60,000 annually.
“When they’re covered, it’s fine. But if they’re not and they see my tattoos, sometimes they don’t even want to talk to me. They take a little step backward. If it’s a lady, she grabs her purse.”
“The Samuel Dixon Family Health
It took several sessions with the volunteer team of physicians
Centers do such important work in the
using a high-tech laser device to erase the tattoos – a
Santa Clarita Valley, particularly now
collection that includes cell blocks, gates and spider webs. And when it was over, Cortez would spend dozens of hours
when so many people are losing their jobs
performing community service, the only thing program
and their health insurance.”
organizers ask of their clients. “I would go look for a job, the first thing they would ask me about was my tattoos,” Cortez said. “I said I put them on when I was young, but I’m not like that any more. They would say they
The goal is outreach to those with no money for health care –
would call, and I waited and waited but they never did.
and to provide preventative medicine.
“It’s so much better now.”
“The Samuel Dixon Family Health Centers do such important
To learn more, call (818) 847-3860.
work in the Santa Clarita Valley, particularly now when so many people are losing their jobs and their health insurance,” said Sister Colleen Settles, OP, Chief Mission Integration Officer for the California Region. “It’s a privilege for Providence Holy Cross to partner with such an important organization by providing lab work and diagnostics. It is our mission to provide care for the poor and vulnerable, and so our two organizations work well together, hand-in-hand. Established more than 20 years ago in the semi-rural community of Val Verde, the organization now operates three centers in the Santa Clarita Valley. Contributions from Providence have enabled the health centers to meet the needs of the growing population in need.
Providence Health & Services 2009 Community Benefit Report [ page 12 ]
Building Abroad
Baby Moves
Sixteen Providence leaders made the five-day trip, an annual
Providence Little Company of Mary’s Baby Moves program offers
Ministry Leadership project to help the Esperanza Community
fun, and learning, for children from birth to age 4. It offers a safe
Development Fund that works with member families to build
and fun environment for parents to learn how to engage in age-
homes. The backdrop is one of extreme poverty, but one
appropriate play with their children. While children play with their
tempered by a strong sense of community and a shared drive
caregivers and peers, great things happen. They build cognitive,
to work together for a better future.
language and social skills, they develop fine and large motor skills,
Group Finds Tremendous Rewards in Giving
Building Blocks for the Future
and they become eager to take part in community activities.
“The group formed into a family,” Ken said. “We, as people of Providence, came down to help as part of a larger group.”
Promotoras (Community Health Workers) staff the program, encouraging families to trust and confide in members of their own community. Manuel’s story is a great example. Manuel clung to his grandma in bewilderment and fear. At 3 years old, he had seldom been around other children, and the Baby Moves Developmental Play Center was filled with them!
The first thing that hit the group as they crossed the border was the contrasts. From the lush hills of San Diego to the
As he held on, the Promotora asked his grandmother to sit down and tell her about their home together.
barren ones of Tijuana, the scenery drew a line between
Grandma confessed that, as Manuel’s primary care giver, she
the “haves” and the “have nots.” And once in Mexico, the
didn’t feel safe or comfortable taking him out to play, so he had
Providence crew saw further contrasts in the new sparkling
very little interaction with other children. Despite Manuel’s fear,
factories that were built among Tijuana’s shanties.
Grandma felt comfortable at the Center, and began to bring him
But it wasn’t long before this crew realized the riches these families share. “We realized after three days of work that we gained so much more from this experience than we could ever give these people,” said Ken Keller, Regional Director of Physician Business Services.
twice a week. After a short time, Manuel started playing with the other children, and has developed social skills appropriate for his age. Grandma says she encourages more play at home now, too. Playtime is learning time for everyone Baby Moves sessions begin with “circle time,” where the children
The Providence group was split to work on two different
and their parents sing and dance together, clap their hands and
homes. One group spent the day digging foundations
wave colorful flags. Playtime is next. As the kids explore the
and trenches in very compacted clay, grueling work under
games, blocks, balls and crafts available at various stations, their
the hot sun. The second group laid blocks with cement,
parents and staff members interact with them, as the parents learn
backbreaking yet very satisfying labor, the kind where the
techniques to use to promote their kids’ development at home.
sense of accomplishment is immediate. The lessons learned the first day centered on community and family.
Ultimately, the parents end up having as much fun as their
“The group formed into a family,” Ken said. “We, as people
chance to laugh, share and network with one another. As one
of Providence, came down to help as part of a larger group.
mom says, “This program has been so enjoyable. It has taught
Even though these families don’t have a lot, they are very
me things I can do at home with my son, and I see a difference
proud of what they do have and they are supportive of each
in him already. He loves coming, too. As soon as he sees the
other. They work harder than all of us out here. They’re
building he tries to climb out of his car seat, he’s so excited.”
open, willing to give, charitable – again we took away more than we gave.”
children. Not only is the program educational, it offers them a
To learn more, call (310) 257-3586.
Providence Health & Services 2009 Community Benefit Report [ page 13 ]
Patient Navigator Program Helps Community Navigate the Healthcare System Uninsured patients rarely have access to regular medical care, meaning they tend to use the Emergency Room for all of their medical needs - even the non-urgent ones. While that strains an already over-burdened health care system, the consequences can be deadly for our patients. Without regular care, patients suffer, often become disabled and even die from such manageable diseases as diabetes and high blood pressure. A recent health status interview of residents in economically disadvantaged communities in the South Bay underscores the danger: Up to 25% of residents say they rarely or never receive health care when they need it; up to 68% say they do not have a regular doctor; up to 37% say their health is “only fair” or “poor.” By the time a symptom scares them enough to seek help, their health can have deteriorated terribly. Promotora Patient Navigator Program
Juan’s Story When Juan came to the Emergency Room looking for help, Promotora Maria sat down with him. He had been diagnosed with San Joaquin Valley fever, or coccidioidomycosis, a disease that produces only mild symptoms in most people, but was killing Juan. Without regular medical care, he probably wouldn’t survive. Juan’s family needed him now more than ever. Although his wife had been working on her immigration papers, she had been deported to Mexico for 3 years. Their 5-year-old daughter had been left behind with Juan, who now had to be both mother and father to her. Cooking and cleaning were now taking up every minute of the time that Juan wasn’t working at the small business he owns with his brother. “Juan was under a lot of stress,” Maria says. “He was trying to
Helping connect uninsured patients with low-cost or free
take care of his little girl while being very sick himself. He couldn’t
clinics was key. Any solution had to embrace the culture,
afford the medications he needed. My first job was to calm him
language and special needs of our diverse population. It had
down a bit. My next was to get him enrolled in Medi-Cal.”
to come from the community itself.
Today, Juan gets regular medical care in his community clinic,
As in other areas of Providence, Promotoras helped to craft
thanks to Maria and the Promotora Patient Navigator Program.
the solution. By pairing promotoras with uninsured patients,
His health has improved, and his little girl is getting ready to
patients learn to navigate the complex and confusing
start school. With a little luck, his wife will be able to return
healthcare system. They learn about affordable healthcare
sooner than later. And Juan’s business will have a good year!
options. They learn how to enroll their children and themselves in low cost insurance programs.
To learn more, call (310) 257-3544.
By pairing promotoras with uninsured ER patients, patients learn how to navigate the complex and confusing healthcare system. They learn about affordable healthcare options. And they have found new medical homes!
Providence Health & Services 2009 Community Benefit Report [ page 14 ]
Partners For Healthy Kids
Mobile Clinic Serves Children in Need A Happy Ending
Caring for uninsured kids is a huge challenge in the South Bay area. For one thing, their parents often don’t know that free clinics exist. And transportation issues often keep them at home.
give him something to make him feel better?
illnesses such as ear infections and strep throat without
Our nurse practitioner examined Samuel’s throat and ears
medical care. Many have never had a regular check up
and saw nothing unusual. But when she felt his neck, she
or been immunized against polio, mumps, tetanus or whooping cough. And some children suffer with serious, life-
The Program
Healthy Kids van at his school. He said his throat and ears had been hurting a lot and that he probably had a cold. Could we
Many kids have to soldier through common, but painful,
threatening conditions that could, if treated, be managed.
Samuel was 6 years old when he visited the Partners for
noticed a lump that wasn’t supposed to be there. It needed immediate attention. Samuel’s mom was frightened. She didn’t have a way to get her little boy to a specialist. She spoke only Spanish and had
Providence Little Company of Mary created the Partners for
no understanding of the healthcare system. But the nurse
Healthy Kids program, sending a mobile pediatric clinic to
practitioner knew that if Samuel had cancer - and wasn’t
schools in Lawndale, Gardena, Wilmington and San Pedro
seen and treated immediately - it could spread. He could die.
every week. The kids get the medical care they need right where they are.
The nurse practitioner got on the phone to make appointments with specialists. She arranged transportation to and from the
Run by a bilingual staff, Partners for Healthy Kids also
appointments. As it turned out, she was right. Samuel had a
provides wellness education and referrals to dental and
laryngeal tumor that required surgery.
specialty care when needed. The kids learn how to keep themselves healthy and strong. Sometimes they experience life-saving care.
Today, Samuel is a happy, healthy kid, back at school with his friends. His mom says she will be forever grateful that we cared enough to help him get the treatment he needed. We here at Providence Little Company of Mary are grateful too, that we had a program that allowed us to be part of Samuel’s successful care! To learn more, call (310) 514-5466.
Run by a bilingual staff, Partners for Healthy Kids also provides wellness education and referrals to dental and specialty care when needed. The kids learn how to keep themselves healthy and strong.
Providence Health & Services 2009 Community Benefit Report [ page 15 ]
2009 Community Investment
About Us Providence Health & Services, California, is a not-for-profit Catholic health care ministry committed to providing for the needs of the communities we serve — especially the poor and vulnerable. The region operates five, awardwinning Medical Centers in Southern California: Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center, Providence Holy Cross Medical Center, Providence Tarzana Medical Center, Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance and Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center San Pedro. In addition, Providence operates several non-acute facilities and physician clinics, as well as a high school. With more than 10,000 employees, physicians and volunteers, we remain committed to our core values of respect, compassion, justice, excellence and stewardship. These goals, defined by our founding sisters more than 150 years ago, feed philosophies that result in high-quality care for our patients, a broad spectrum of outreach programs for our community, and a focus on recruiting and retaining dedicated employees. Providence Health & Services is dedicated to quality, compassionate care for all. The Providence Medical Centers provide a full continuum of health care services.
How Do Our Communities Benefit? Providence gives back to our communities by providing a variety of health care programs. We tailor our programs to respond to regional, area and neighborhood needs. Our contributions include: •
Financial assistance for the uninsured and others
•
who cannot pay for the cost of their care •
•
Subsidies to make up the difference between the
Subsidies for medical residency programs, nursing and other education, and medical research
•
Services to our communities such as wellness
cost of care and what is paid by state and federal
and prevention education, health screenings,
government
immunizations and support groups
Services are offered because of a need in the
•
Community-building grants, cash gifts, and in-kind
community including our primary care safety net
donations such as medical supplies, child safety
clinics and behavioral health programs
seats and food
Providence Health & Services 2009 Community Benefit Report [ page 16 ]
Total Community Benefit
$124.2 Million
People Served
180,346
Total Community Benefit – $124.2 Million Unpaid Costs of Medi-Cal
Free Community Programs & Services
Subsidized Health Services
Charity Care
Total Cost of Care & Services Donated in 2009
South Bay Service Area
$24,042,717
$8,162,440
$3,712,447
$2,272,682
$38,190,286
Valley Service Area
$59,172,698
$9,423,545
$108,014
$17,335,619
$86,039,876
Total Providence Health & Services in California
$83,215,415
$17,585,985
$3,820,461
$19,608,301
$124,230,162
Charity Care $19.6 Million Subsidized Health Services $3.8 Million
Unpaid Costs of Medi-Cal $83.2 Million
Free Community Programs & Services $17.6 Million
Tax Status Benefit As a not-for-profit service organization, Providence Health & Services in California received an estimated $35.8 million in federal, state and local tax exemptions in 2009. In comparison, we gave back more than $119.5 million to the communities we serve or more than $83.7 million in excess of our exemptions. In addition, there are taxes from which we are not exempt and which we must pay as part of our normal course of operations, just like any other organization. These taxes totaled more than $50.3 million in 2009 and include business and occupation taxes; taxes on non-exempt properties; and payroll and state taxes.
Providence Health & Services 2009 Community Benefit Report [ page 17 ]
Region Service Area Oakland
Providence House
Santa Clarita
Providence Holy Cross Health Center
Porter Ranch
Providence Holy Cross Health Center
Mission Hills
Providence Holy Cross Medical Center Providence TrinityCare Hospice Providence Holy Cross Surgery Center Providence Holy Cross Diagnostic Center
North Hollywood
Providence St. Elizabeth Care Center Providence Center for Community Health Improvement
Tarzana
Providence Tarzana Medical Center Providence Tarzana Diabetes Care Center Providence Tarzana Women’s Center Providence Tarzana Imaging Center Providence Tarzana OutpatientTherapy Center Valley Radiation Oncology Center
Burbank
Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center Providence TrinityCare Hospice Providence High School Providence Saint Joseph Health Center Providence Saint Joseph Diagnostic Center Roy and Patricia Disney Family Cancer Center Providence Home Care
Manhattan Beach
Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Institute
Redondo Beach
Providence Little Company of MaryMedical Institute Outpatient Care Center
Hawthorne
Key
Health Care Campus Freestanding Long Term Care Facility Housing and Assisted Living Owned Primary Care Network Educational Facility Behavioral Health Services Adult and Child Day Care Centers Home Health and Hospice Services Medical Laboratory Services Providence Health Plan Providence Infusion and Pharmacy Services Freestanding Outpatient Services Food Bank Community Outreach Center
Providence Health & Services 2009 Community Benefit Report [ page 18 ]
Providence Little Company of MaryMedical Institute Vasek Polak Community Health Clinic
Torrance
Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance Providence Little Company of Mary Transitional Care Center/Unit Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Institute Providence Little Company of Mary Home Health Providence TrinityCare Hospice Outpatient Care Center
Carson
Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Institute
San Pedro
Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center San Pedro Sub Acute Care Center Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Institute Providence TrinityCare Hospice Providence Diagnostic Center Providence Little Company of MaryPeninsula Recovery Center
CALIFORNIA REGION ADMINISTRATION
SOUTH BAY SERVICE AREA
Arnold Schaffer, Senior Vice President, Regional Operations
Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center San Pedro Nancy Carlson, Chief Executive
501 South Buena Vista Street Burbank, CA 91505 (818) 847-3334
Kerry Carmody, Chief Operating Officer
1300 West Seventh Street San Pedro, CA 90732 (310) 832-3311
501 South Buena Vista Street Burbank, CA 91505 (818) 847-4561
Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance Michael Hunn, Chief Executive
Jeffrey Winter, Chief Administrative Officer
4101 Torrance Boulevard Torrance, CA 90503 (310) 540-7676
501 South Buena Vista Street Burbank, CA 91505 (818) 847-3375 VALLEY SERVICE AREA
Providence Holy Cross Medical Center Larry Bowe, Chief Executive 15031 Rinaldi Street Mission Hills, CA 91346 (818) 365-8051
Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center Barry Wolfman, Chief Executive 501 South Buena Vista Street Burbank, CA 91505 (818) 847-3380
Providence Tarzana Medical Center Dale Surowitz, Chief Executive 18321 Clark St. Tarzana, CA 91356 (818) 708-5140
Providence St. Elizabeth Care Center Neil Silverstein, Administrator 10425 Magnolia Boulevard North Hollywood, CA 91601 (818) 980-3872
Providence Health & Services Foundation Valley Service Area Patricia E. Modrzejewski, President 501 S. Buena Vista Street Burbank, CA 91505 818.847.4673
TrinityCare Hospice Terri Warren, Executive Director 2601 Airport Drive, Suite 230 Torrance, CA 90505 (310) 530-3800
Providence Little Company of Mary Foundation Joseph M. Zanetta, JD, President 4101 Torrance Blvd. Torrance, CA 90503 (310) 303-5340 MISSION LEADERSHIP
Sister Colleen Settles, OP, D. Min, Chief Mission Integration Officer 501 South Buena Vista Street Burbank, CA 91505 (818) 847-3350
Jim Tehan, Director, Community Health Providence Little Company of Mary 2601 Airport Drive, Suite 220 Torrance, CA 90505 (310) 257-3586
Ron Sorensen, Director, Community Outreach Valley Service Area 6801 Coldwater Canyon, Suite 1A North Hollywood, CA 91605 (818) 847-3862
Providence Health & Services 2009 Community Benefit Report [ page 19 ]
501 S. Buena Vista Street Burbank, CA 91505 T: (888) 432-5464 www.providence.org/california Š 2010 Providence Health & Services