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Press Releases
6/25/09
“LIVING WELL WITH DIABETES” CLASS IN SEPTEMBER
Detecting diabetes before it shows symptoms has caused many people to be surprised when test results indicate diabetes. Today, however, there are many factors that go into controlling diabetes that can slow down the advancement of this condition.
If diabetes is a part of your life, plan to attend Mason General Hospital’s three-day session entitled “Living Well With Diabetes” from Tuesday to Thursday, September 8, 9, and 10th, starting at 9 a.m. each day in the Ellinor Room at MGH. Due to space limitations, advanced registration is required. Diabetes education is a covered service under most insurance plans.
According to Sue Barwick, R.N., certified diabetes educator and coordinator of the class, “diabetes self-management can be improved with proper knowledge and skills
and most people with diabetes can lead a healthy, active life.” MGH has a team of healthcare providers that teach the class. Studies show that effective self-management of diabetes is beneficial for the patient and their family. Content of the class includes diabetes diagnosis, proper meal planning, diabetes medications, exercise, prevention and treatment of complications, stress management, living with diabetes, and the use of support people and a healthcare team.
To register, call Mrs. Barwick at (360) 426-1611, ext. 3301 or (Allyn (360) 275-8614, ext. 3301).
Olympic Physicians purchases new medical office building
Olympic Physicians P.L.L.C., Shelton, recently announced the purchase of a new medical office building at 219/221 Professional Way, Shelton. The Olympic Physician providers that will move to the new location will be Douglas Lindahl, DO, Mark Schlauderaff, MD, Jon Burke, PhD (Clinical Psychologist), and Thomas Prieskorn, PA-C. The new clinic will open on July 20, 2009. Rebecca Hendryx, MD, Diana Velikova, MD, Allen Millard, MD, Mark Flores, PA-C, and Lisa Dell, PA-C will continue to practice medicine at the 237 Professional Way Clinic. Both offices may be reached by calling 360-426-2500. To find out more about the providers go to www.OlympicPhysicians.com .
Digital Mammography NOW at MGH!
Thanks to the generous support of local donors, MGH Foundation and Treasures Thrift Store, MGH’s diagnostic imaging department now has digital mammography. With this addition, MGH’s diagnostic imaging capability is 100% digital.
There are many advantages to digital mammography:
- Improved image quality for all women, especially those under 50 years old
- Reduce patient exam time, increasing availability of appointment times
- Ease of access and transfer of patient images and records
- Images are immediately available for consultation with healthcare specialists as needed
Mason General Hospital is a member of the National Consortium of Breast Centers. All of our mammographers and radiologists are certified in digital breast imaging.
To make an appointment call – (360) 427-9590 (option 3).
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5/25/09
CONGESTIVE HEART FAILURE SUPPORT GROUP FORMED
Out of a need to help patients manage their congestive heart failure (CHF), Mason General Hospital’s intensive care unit staff has created a support group called the “Heart Healthy Club.” Their first meeting will be held on Thursday, June 11, 2009 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. in the Ellinor Room at MGH. Guest speaker, Sarah Fulkerson, R.D., C.D.E., MGH’s registered dietitian, will lead an in-depth, highly interactive class on heart healthy, low-salt food choices, and snacks will be provided. The last half hour of the class will be for ‘socializing’ and sharing of patients’ experiences with congestive heart failure. The support group will then meet every other month beginning in September, following the summer break.
The CHF Support Group was a result of MGH’s strategic initiatives to ‘develop and offer programs that maximize health and independence for those with chronic healthcare needs’ while ‘transforming care at the bedside for healthcare improvement.’ For more information on the CHF Support Group, call Gayle Ziegler, ICU support staff at (360) 426-1611, extension #3512.
Auxiliary Gives $3,500 to Hospital Departments
MGH’s Auxiliary gave five checks to five different hospital department managers during its annual meeting in May. The checks were presented by Auxiliary President, Mary Anne Munson. The departments receiving the checks, which totaled $3,500, were – laboratory, pharmacy, respiratory therapy, culinary and nutrition, and environmental services.
5/12/09
REBECCA McPHEETERS, APRIL EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH
Rebecca McPheeters, clinical data technician in Health Information Management (HIM) at Mason General Hospital, was selected as MGH’s April “Employee of the Month” by her peers. Her nominator described her as “a pleasure to work with, as she does everything asked of her joyfully and with a smile. She has drive and a good attitude.”
“I was tickled to hear that Rebecca was selected as the EOM, Laura Grubb, HIM Director. “I cannot think of a more deserving staff member. She is a delight to work with and I am so very thankful to have her on our team!”
Rebecca came to MGH in June of 2007 from Moses Lake Hospital, where she worked as Director of Health Information Management. Prior to that, she was with Coulee Community Hospital and Holy Family Hospital in Spokane. She is a registered HIM technologist and has her Associate of Arts degree in HIM from Spokane Community College.
Rebecca was one of eight HIM Directors, nationwide, who was asked to sit on the advisory board for ChartOne. “Once a year, they would bring us to a central location in the U.S. to meet face-to-face, and the other three meetings per year were held on the web,” said Rebecca. ChartOne is a company based out of Boston, MA, that provides a full-service package to healthcare entities including helping to build, capture, and store patient records electronically; scan and convert paper/microfiche records to electronic images (that marry to the patient’s electronic record for the same look and feel as the electronic); set up and/or provide release of information services; work with Peer Review; etc. “That work was such a privilege, and a true honor,” she admitted.
“I came to Mason General Hospital because I wanted to explore some other options and gain additional experience within the HIM field, and MGH fit the criteria. MGH not only provides those opportunities, but it is approved by the Joint Commission, and is a very impressive organization,” said Rebecca, with her infectious smile. “I love it here, as we want to give the best care possible.” Rebecca also enjoys being able to help improve the quality of the management of patient information. In addition, she finds the staff to be ‘just like family’. “Everyone is so friendly and cooperative and open to new ideas. It just makes it a pleasure to work here,” she added.
When Rebecca is not working, she enjoys seeing the area with her nine-year old granddaughter, Angel, and reading all types of books. “I love to go exploring with Angel and teach her things,” Rebecca said. “Currently, I am teaching her how to knit.” Rebecca has two grown daughters and two grandchildren.
4/27/09
HOSPITAL PURCHASES LOCAL WOMEN’S HEALTH CENTER
Mason General Hospital recently signed an agreement to purchase Mountain View Women’s Health Center (MVWHC) – a local gynecologic and obstetric clinic in Shelton, founded in 1994 by Jonathan A. Gold. M.D. The acquisition takes effect July 1, 2009.
In the announcement, Bob Appel, CEO of MGH stated, “Over the years, Dr. Gold has built a clinic that has an outstanding reputation. We, at MGH, want to continue the delivery of care that the women of Mason County have grown to depend on. We are thrilled that the transition will be seamless, as the staff and other physicians at Mountain View Women’s Health Center resume the high level of patient care established by Dr. Gold. Dr. Gold is moving his family to California and he will be missed. We wish him the best.”
Physicians Lystra B. Wilson-Celestine and Nkem Nwosa, currently working at MVWHC, will remain on staff caring for women with gynecological and obstetrical needs. Some of the services they provide include obstetrical care – general and high risk; well-woman care; family planning; 3-D ultrasound, peri-menopausal/menopausal care; bone density testing; gynecological surgery; urinary incontinence and UTIs, and infertility services.
4/20/08
HOSPITAL COMPLETES PURCHASE OF SHELTON FAMILY MEDICINE
Effective April 1, 2009, Shelton Family Medicine (SFM) – co-founded by John V. Butler, M. D., and Timothy J. Weber, M.D. in 1978 and 1977 respectively – joined the family of Mason General Hospital and Clinics. SFM is a full-service family medical clinic that provides pediatric care, adult care, geriatrics, gynecology, women’s health issues, and osteoporosis/bone scans.
“Doctors Butler and Weber have built a clinic that has served this community well over the years,” said Bob Appel, CEO of MGH. “We plan to work hard to maintain and build on this reputation.” The staff and physicians at SFM remained the same, as have the clinic hours, and its acceptance of most insurance plans, including Group Health. Other healthcare providers at SFM include Doris H. Wilson, M.D. and Bonnie J. Davis M.D., and physician assistants, Resa Delany and Katie Hackney.
4/16/08
HOSPITAL AUXILIARY TO HOST REGION CONFERENCE
Mason General Hospital Auxiliary will host the Region II State Association of Hospital Auxiliaries Spring Conference on Monday, April 27 at MGH. The theme is "Smell the Roses." In staying with that theme, guest speaker, Colleen Hunter of Lynch Creek Floral will discuss growing, care of, and displaying of roses.
Other program speakers will be − Cheryl Woods, PT, MGH’s Physical Therapy department, who will demonstrate stress-relieving exercises; Skip Wheeler, manager of Employee Assistance Services of Providence Health System, speaking on stress management; and MGH’s Director of Education, Tom DiDonna, who will talk about some of his experiences traveling to foreign countries for the American Heart Association.
For more information on the Auxiliary’s Spring Conference, call Mary Anne Munson, president at (360) 426-6722.
4/16/09
 TREASURES THRIFT STORE HONORS VOLUNTEERS FOR EXCEPTIONAL HOURS
Volunteers, Robert Kimbel and Robert Hayek were recently honored by Treasures Thrift Store for their hours of service. Kimbel has more than 5,000 hours over the past four years, and Hayek has 2,244 hours over the past year. “I enjoy my job, as I get to deal with people, sort books, and help Mason General Hospital,” said Hayek. Kimbel helps with the unloading and sorting of donations in the back room. In addition to clothing, Treasures Thrift Store also sells household items, furniture, collectibles, and jewelry. New merchandise is also available. Treasures, Too book store, two doors down from the main store, includes several hundred books and collectibles.
Proceeds from Treasures Thrift Store benefit the Mason General Hospital medical equipment fund. Over the past five years, Treasures Thrift
Store has donated more than $532,000 to MGH. Some of the purchases they have made or helped to make include four CPR defibrillator machines,and most recently they gave $115,000 toward the new digital mammography machine at MGH. For more information call (360) 427-2972 or visit their website.
4/16/09
 TREASURES THRIFT STORE TO HOST FASHION SHOW
Times may be tough, but not at Treasures Thrift Store in Shelton. Donations are up, especially in high-end merchandise, and as a result, they plan to host a Fashion Show on Thursday, May 7, 2009 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. in the store at 305 W. Railroad Ave.
“We are receiving some very nice articles of clothing – some ‘designer end’ – that we’d like to show and sell to the public,” said Debra DeVore-Nelson, Treasures Thrift Store floor supervisor, and coordinator of the event. “It will be a fun evening that will include fashion models from our staff, volunteers, and customers. We are doing this to show the public the fabulous name-brand clothing and accessories we have for sale.” In addition to clothing, Treasures Thrift Store sells household items, furniture, collectibles, and jewelry. New merchandise is also available. Treasures, Too book store, two doors down from the main store, includes several hundred books and collectibles.
Proceeds from Treasures Thrift Store benefit the Mason General Hospital medical equipment fund. Over the past five years, Treasures Thrift Store has donated more than $532,000 to MGH. Some of the purchases they have made or helped to make include four CPR defibrillator machines, and most recently they gave $115,000 toward the new digital mammography machine at MGH. For more information on the Fashion Show or to RSVP, please call the main store at (360) 427-2972 and ask for Deby, Sandy, or Terina, or go to www.TreasuresThriftStores.org.
4/2/09
LINDA GEARY, MARCH EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH
Linda Geary, secretary in environmental services and safety, was selected as Mason General Hospital’s March “Employee of the Month” by her peers. Her nominator called her “an amazing lady who has been behind the scenes of a very successful department.”
An interesting fact about Linda is that she was born at Mason General Hospital, and now comes to work every day to help it remain a top healthcare provider in the area. “I just love working here,” she said, with a smile. “I enjoy the work and the employees. Everyone works hard to help each other out.” Linda went on to explain that one of the reasons she has stayed at MGH for the past 12 years is the sense of camaraderie with staff. “Employees choose to stay here because of the people – we really like each other.” MGH’s staff satisfaction and longevity are on the high-end for the healthcare industry, as evidenced by the “employee years of service honors” that are presented annually.
Linda, who is married to Keith Geary, plant engineer at MGH and also a past employee of the month, have five children – Aurora, Thomas, Kyle, Kendra, and Walker. “All of our free time together is spent doing family things, such as being involved in supporting MS fundraisers,” she said. However, when she finds time for herself, Linda enjoys shopping with her sister, Toni Haggerty; reading, or doing crafts. She also volunteers with Fantasy Forest, a special annual event hosted by MGH Foundation. “Christmas is such a magical time of the year. I find it fun and rewarding to be a part of Fantasy Forest,” she added.
3/12/09
HOSPITAL FOUNDATION CALLS FOR NOMINATIONS FOR COUNTY’S -- AMERICAN BUSINESS WOMEN AWARD
Mason General Hospital Foundation is seeking nominations for individuals to be honored at its 12th annual American Business Women’s Day Luncheon to be held Friday, September 18, 2009, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. at MGH in the Ellinor Room. Tickets are $25 per person.
Every year MGH’s Foundation honors three outstanding businesswomen who are or were successful in their occupations, work or have worked in Mason County, and are active and volunteer in their community.
Past honorees include: 1998 – Miriam Hall, Janet Thornbrue, and Patti Tupper; 1999 – Nita Bariekman, Jean Lee, and Norma Taylor; 2000 – Kay Gott, Colleen Hunter, and Doris Wilson, M.D.; 2001 – Beth Johnston, R.N., Betty Wolfe, and Mary Helen Anderson; 2002 – Carol Hunter, Rose Nye, and Cherrie Reitsch; 2003 – Janis Byrd, Carolyn Olsen, and Gayle Weston; 2004 – Patti Case, Betty Wing, and Catherine Ann Wolf; 2005 – Angela Wake Olsen, Michelle Schnitzer, and Renee Youngs; 2006 – Xinh Dwelley, Irene Locke, and Virginia Jessemey McCarty; 2007 – Lynn Busacca, Vicki Gonzalez, and Lynn Harvey and 2008 – Laurie Buhl, Pam Hanson, and Billie Howard.
Entry forms are available at MGH’s development office at Gateway Center, 2505 Olympic Highway North, Suite 460, Shelton, or online here. Nominations are due Friday, May 29, 2009. For more information call (360) 427-3623 (from Allyn (360) 275-8614).
3/12/09
NATIONAL DIABETES ALERT® DAY – MARCH 24
 Diabetes has become the greatest public health crisis of the next quarter century. To address the burden of this disease, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) is issuing an urgent call-to-action for Americans to find out their risk for type 2 diabetes during the 21st annual American Diabetes Alert® Day on Tuesday, March 24, 2009.
Nearly 6 million Americans have diabetes, but don’t even know it. Another 57 million Americans have pre-diabetes, placing them at increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Mason General Hospital’s Diabetes Wellness Center joins with the American Diabetes Association and encourages people who are overweight, physically inactive, and over the age of 45 years to take the Diabetes Risk Test.
The Diabetes Risk Test requires users to answer simple questions about their weight, age, family history and other potential risk factors for type 2 diabetes. The Diabetes Risk Test (www.diabetes.org/alert) will show users whether they are at low, moderate, or high risk for pre-diabetes or diabetes. Among the primary risk factors for type 2 diabetes are being overweight, inactive, over the age of 45, and having a family history of diabetes. African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are at an increased risk, as are women who have had babies weighing more than nine pounds at birth.
Unfortunately, people with type 2 diabetes can live for years without realizing that they have the disease. While people with diabetes can exhibit noticeable symptoms, such as frequent urination, blurred vision, and excessive thirst, most people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes do not show these overt warning signs at the time that they develop the disease. Often, type 2 diabetes only becomes evident when people develop one or more of its serious complications, such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, eye damage, or nerve damage that can lead to amputations.
The American Diabetes Association is leading the fight against the deadly consequences of diabetes and fighting for those affected by diabetes. The Association funds research to prevent, cure, and manage diabetes; delivers services to hundreds of communities; provides objective and credible information; and gives voice to those denied their rights because of diabetes.
Founded in 1940, ADA’s mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. To obtain a copy of the Diabetes Risk Test or for more information about diabetes (in English or Spanish), please visit www.diabetes.org/alert or call the Mason General Hospital Diabetes Wellness Center at 426-1611, ext. 3301 or the American Diabetes Association at 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383).
3/05/09
EILEEN BRANSCOME, NEW CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER AT MASON GENERAL HOSPITAL
Eileen Branscome, R.N., B.S., M.B.A., is the new chief operating officer at Mason General Hospital. Eileen has many years of experience working in small and large hospitals, and in a variety of healthcare networks as a member of the senior leadership teams. She received her registered nursing degree from Jackson Memorial Hospital, Miami, Florida, and has a Bachelor of Science in Business and Communication and a Masters in Business Administration.
“We are delighted to have someone of Eileen’s experience and education to fill our COO position,” said Eric Moll, CAO, at MGH. “She comes with a plethora of experiences that will add to our growing services.”
Eileen has worked for Centura Catholic Health Initiative, Colorado; and Seton Healthcare, Texas. “I have traveled the length and breadth of the country, by design,” she said. “I have the freedom to move around, and so I want to see and experience different hospitals.”
Eileen chose Shelton after she “fell in love with the area” last summer while on vacation here. “I first saw the area a few years ago when I visited the San Juan Islands, and just knew I had to return,” she said. The past summer convinced her to retire to this area. “I thought, well maybe I could work here too, before I retire,” she added.
In her position, Eileen will oversee all the clinical responsibilities at MGH – including the emergency department, surgery, intensive care, diagnostic imaging, laboratory services, medical/surgical/pediatrics, The Birth Center, physical therapy, respiratory therapy, dietary services, and patient resources. One of her fondest desires is to do ‘community outreach’ and take MGH out into the community. “I hope to meet the needs of all we serve and that they view us as a vital community resource,” she said.
2/06/09
NEW ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON AT MASON GENERAL HOSPITAL
David C. King, M.D., board-certified in orthopedics, has been approved to join the medical staff at Mason General Hospital. Dr. King will be practicing at Shelton Orthopedics, 939 Mountain View Drive, Suite 130, Shelton. To make an appointment, call (360) 427-0663. Shelton Orthopedics in a part of Public Hospital District No. 1 – the governing body of Mason General Hospital.
Dr. King is a graduate of Wayne State University Medical School in Detroit, MI, and completed his fellowship in Total Joint Arthroplasty at Harvard University/Massachusetts General Hospital. He performs hip and knee joint replacement; sports injury procedures; surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome, fractures, wrist and hand, and ankle injuries. He is also skilled in arthroscopic procedures.
1/16/09
MEDICAL STAFF OFFICERS ELECTED – CHIEFS OF SERVICE APPOINTED
Mason General Hospital’s more than 100 physicians recently elected its medical officers and appointed its Chiefs of Service for 2009. There are more than 100 physicians in 21 specialties – active, courtesy, and consulting – with privileges at MGH.
Elected as Chief of Staff, Saad Al Alou, M.D., board-certified in pediatrics; Assistant Chief of Staff, Roy G. Belville, M.D., board-certified in emergency medicine; Secretary, Timothy J. Weber, M.D., board-certified in family practice; and past Chief of Staff, Dean E. Gushee, M.D., board-certified in emergency medicine.
The 2009 Clinical Chiefs of Service department heads are: Anesthesia, Robert F. Goad, M.D.; Intensive Care Unit, Mark L. Schlauderaff, M.D.; Emergency Services, Dean E. Gushee, M.D.; Infant and Children’s Services, Saad Al Alou, M.D.; Laboratory Services, Terrence A. Schulte, M.D.; Medical/Surgical, Christopher W. Penoyar, D.O.; Obstetrics, Jonathan A. Gold, M.D.; Respiratory Therapy, Douglas F. Lindahl, D.O.; Surgery, Vanni C. Manthiram, M.D., and Radiology, Thomas J. Luetkehans, M.D.
DONA KRAVIS, NEW EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT DIRECTOR AT MASON GENERAL HOSPITAL
SHELTON, Wash. – Dona Kravis, B.S.N., R.N. is the new emergency department director at Mason General Hospital. Dona came from Capital Medical Center, Olympia, where she served as director of quality/risk management and director of the emergency department. Prior to that she worked as the director of critical care services. Dona received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Washington, Tacoma, and her Registered Nurse degree from South Puget Sound Community College, Olympia.
“I am pleased to have Dona as a part of our team at MGH, and the experience and skills she brings to this organization,” said Eric Moll, CAO at MGH. MGH’s emergency department sees more than 20,000 patient visits a year and has more than ten physicians on staff that are board-certified.
While at Capital Medical Center, Dona was presented with the “Frist Humanitarian Award” in 2001, for taking care of a seven year-old girl whose mother was admitted to CMC, and later died. Dona cared for the girl in her home until a relative was found. In addition, during a span of 17 years at CMC , she was selected by her peers four different times as “Employee of the Month.”
HOSPITAL RECEIVES TECHNOLOGY AWARD – AGAIN
Inland Northwest Health Services (INHS) recently announced the “2008 INHS Health Information Technology Awards” and Mason General Hospital was a recipient.
Selections were based upon strategies and actions using health IT and health information exchange to improve the quality, safety and efficiency of health care by engaging consumers, transforming care delivery and improving the health of communities.
Mason General Hospital Clinics were awarded the “INHS Health Information Technology Award 2008 – Physician Group” for taking the initiative in implementing a charge interface between their electronic medical record application and their practice management/billing system. “This charge interface has greatly improved efficiency for both the clinics and the business office,” said Terry Megiveron, chief of provider services for MGH clinics. “Less time is spent processing paperwork, allowing for speedy processing of patient charges.” Megiveron pointed out that that the implementation of this interface went smooth due to the hard work and dedication of the business office and clinic employees, headed up by Julie Lamphiear, Geronda Brown and Jennifer Miller.
KAREN HILBURN FUND DONATES $5,000 TO OAKLAND BAY PEDIATRIC CLINIC FOR CANCER PREVENTION
The Karen Hilburn Breast and Cervical Cancer Fund, an affiliate of Mason General Hospital Foundation, recently donated $5,000 to Oakland Bay Pediatrics, Shelton, to help pay the costs associated with the “Gardasil” vaccine, that helps prevent certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Gardasil is designed to prevent infection with HPV, which currently causes nearly all cases of cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is the second leading cause of death from cancer in women world-wide, and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in the majority of developing countries.
“This is a wonderful and much needed grant to help cover the costs of administering the three-step vaccination to female patients,” said Terry Megiveron, director of clinic operations for Public Hospital District No. 1 – the governing body that manages Oakland Bay Pediatrics.
The three injections are given over a six-month period to women from 9 to 26 years of age. The Karen Hilburn Breast and Cervical Fund provides monies to help women in Mason County who are underinsured or uninsured for screening and treatment of breast and cervical cancer. This is the first time the Fund has approached cancer prevention. “We hope to do more “preventive” type of funding, said Karen Hilburn, founder of the Fund. “I would love to see, some day, a vaccination for breast cancer – like we now have for 70% of cervical cancers.”
Oakland Bay Pediatrics is staffed by pediatricians, Saad Al Alou, M.D.; Meltem Karatepe, M.D., and Therese Pizanti, ARNP. To make an appointment, or to inquire about the Gardasil vaccine, call Oakland Bay Pediatrics at (360) 426-3102.
HOSPITAL FOUNDATION HONORS THREE LOCAL BUSINESS WOMEN
Three local business women - Laurie Buhl, Heritage Bank, Commercial Loans VP; Pam E. Hanson, Cameo Boutique, owner; and Billie L. Howard, Mason County Museum, director, have been chosen to receive the 2008 American Business Women’s Award, presented by the Mason General Hospital Foundation. Every year, the foundation honors three outstanding businesswomen who are or were successful in their occupations, work or have worked in Mason County, and are active as volunteers in their community.
These women will be honored at a public, no-host luncheon on Friday, September 19, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Mason General Hospital in the Ellinor Room. Tickets are $25 per person, and can be purchased by calling (360) 427-3623 (from Belfair (360) 275-8614 and ask for Development). "I am thrilled to honor these three fantastic women for their accomplishments and wonderful service to our community,” said Janis Byrd, chairperson of the selection committee and member of the MGH Foundation. ”I admire these are women greatly and I am proud that the board has made such outstanding selection from a great pool of nominees."
Laurie Buhl joined Heritage Bank as a part-time Customer Service Representative in 1988, after moving to Shelton from Colorado, and quickly moved up through the ranks to her current role as Senior Vice President in Commercial Lending. In 1991, Laurie worked as Sales System Administrator at Heritage Bank headquarters in Olympia, and a year later was promoted to Shelton Branch Manager, at their former location on Railroad Avenue. She was promoted to assistant vice president in 1993 and then vice president in 1996. From there, she transitioned to the Commercial Loans department, and in February of this year she became a Senior VP. Laurie and her employees have received numerous honors and awards for outstanding customer service, and in 1994 she was the recipient of Heritage Bank Corporation’s prestigious Employee of the Year Award. She was also recognized by the Economic Development Council as Volunteer of the Year for 2007. She has served on numerous committees, boards, and service organizations including President of Mason County United Way; Shelton-Mason Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors; Habitat for Humanity; Skookum Rotary; and many years as a board member with the Mason General Hospital Foundation, including VP and co-chair of the annual Fantasy Forest event. Laurie and her husband, Bob, live in Mason County just north of Shelton, and have a daughter, Amber, who has recently completed her Master’s Degree – Physicians Assistant Studies from A.T. Still University in Mesa, Arizona and will be practicing family medicine at a Maricopa County Family Health Center in Chandler, Arizona.
Pam E. Hanson is owner of Cameo Boutique & Wine Shop in Union, which she opened in 1983. She lives at Alderbrook with her husband, Gary, and their two Persian cats, Sidney and Sophie. Pam began working for Mason County Federal Credit Union in 1969, two years before graduating from Shelton High School in 1971. She then went to work as a teller at Seafirst Bank, and later returned to the Credit Union where she worked until 1981, aspiring to the position of Training, Personnel & Marketing director. From 1985 to 1990 Pam was chairman of the “Union Good Old Days,” a 3-day Union event aimed at bringing attention to local businesses and raising money for the Ladies Civic Club, the Hood Canal Improvement Club, and for scholarships. She is also a volunteer for Harmony Hill Cancer Retreat Center in Union, serving as a member of their Major Gift Campaign Task Force, in charge of their Dinner & Auction fundraiser held in August. In addition, she has taken on a bold commitment to raise $100,000 for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation grant challenge. Pam attributes her success to the support of her husband, co-workers, friends, and family, who have guided and encouraged her along the way.
Billie L. Howard, director of the Mason County Museum in Shelton, has been with the Mason County Historical Society since 1990, and is a member of the South Sound HeritageFoundation and the McReavy House Museum of Hood Canal. She is also affiliated with the V.F.W. Ladies’ Auxiliary, the Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.), and has volunteered in several capacities over the past 48 years, including 25 years as a 4-H Leader (1960 to 1985). She is a lifetime member of Saint David’s Episcopal Church, where she received the Bishop’s Cross of the Episcopal Church Diocese of Olympia (only 10 awarded in WA state) in 1986. Billie is also a long-standing volunteer with the Saints’ Pantry Food Bank, was their director for several years, and has been a member of the Mason County Grange from 1979 to the present. Born in Shelton in 1935, Billie is one of three daughters born to Skokomish Valley dairy farmers, Max and Eva Latzel,. She graduated from Irene S. Reed High School in 1953 and then attended a year of business college before her employment with the Simpson Logging Company, and then as the secretary at her former high school from 1961 to 1975. Billie has received many honors for her work, from her Class of ’66 high school dedication to the Pomona Grange Community Service award in 2007. She was given the Mason County Heritage award in 2005, and has been a 4-H Leader-of-the-Year. Billie is married to Donald R. Howard, and has a son, Robert; a daughter, Eva; and four grandchildren.
CENTENNIAL GUILD AND FOUNDATION DONATE NEW READER BOARD AT MASON GENERAL HOSPITAL
 Centennial Guild of Mason General Hospital and Mason General Hospital Foundation joined together to purchase the new light-emitting diode (LED) reader board located on North 13th Street by the hospital’s north entrance. The Guild’s money was raised at OysterFest, Blues Brothers Dance, and at a rummage sale.
“It took a few years to come up with our share of the funds, but it was worth it,” said Patty Rhoades, president of Centennial Guild. “It turned out great, and we hope the community will take advantage of the information and classes that will be advertised on it.”
“The Foundation was so pleased to be able to help contribute the funds to this project,” added Jennifer Capps, chief development officer at MGH. The Foundation raises its funds through various special events, with most of the revenue coming from the annual Fantasy Forest event held in November.
 MASON GENERAL HOSPITAL NAMED 2008 “MOST WIRED” HOSPITAL
Patient Satisfaction Higher at “Most Wired” Hospitals
Mason General Hospital was recently named to the nation’s “Most Wired – Rural” hospitals, according to the results of the 2008 Most Wired Survey and Benchmarking Study released in the July issue of Hospitals & Health Networks magazine.
The 100 Most Wired hospitals show better outcomes in patient satisfaction, risk-adjusted mortality rates, and other key quality measures through the use of information technology (IT), according to a new analysis. Marking its 10th year, the Most Wired Survey and Benchmarking Study continues to lead the field in analyses and benchmarking of healthcare IT.
“We are very excited to receive the prestigious ‘Most Wired’ hospital designation,” said Eric Moll, CFO at Mason General Hospital. “It reflects the hard work of the staff to move our technology to the cutting edge of our industry. We are very committed to making sure we have the most advanced tools for providing the best patient care.”
Mason General Hospital most recently upgraded its technology to include electronic medical record-keeping of patient information. “This designation doesn’t just focus on IT equipment but rather all areas of patient care” said Tom Hornburg, IT Director at MGH. “Technology makes patient care more efficient as it focuses on immediate delivery of the patient’s needs, making for better outcomes.”
“Health IT has shown incredible promise in helping us improve the quality and safety of the care hospitals deliver every day,” said Rich Umbdenstock, president and CEO of the American Hospital Association. “The results of the “Most Wired” survey confirm that today’s patient also understands the benefits of IT in improving care and improving the overall hospital experience.”
“Today’s results add to the growing evidence that the appropriate use of IT can enhance both quality and patient satisfaction,” said Alden Solovy, executive editor of Hospitals & Health Networks magazine. “Most Wired” hospitals are proving the fundamental value of information technology.
The analysis shows that better outcomes occur among high tech hospitals, but it does not establish a direct causal relationship between technology and outcomes. The satisfaction analysis was conducted jointly with Press Ganey Associates, and the quality analysis was conducted jointly with Thomson Healthcare.
11-YEAR OLD ADULT CPR INSTRUCTOR
Helping
to save a life is usually something adults do. Not an 11-year old elementary
school student.
Katie Jo Lester,
who should be hanging out with friends or planning what to wear to school, chooses
to be teaching a packed classroom of adults who want to learn CPR. “It
is so cool to teach someone CPR knowing they could someday save a life,” said
Katie Jo.
Her mom, Debi
Justice, who is in charge of staffing at Mason General Hospital and a Basic Cardiac
Life Support instructor for MGH, was the one who got Katie Jo on the road to
teaching. “I’d go with mom while she taught classes and then pretty
soon I just started to help out,” added Katie Jo. “And then
all of sudden, I started to teach, too.” Katie Jo sat and watched
her mom for nearly 5 years before she took on the role of a instructor.
Tom DiDonna,
R.N., education coordinator at MGH, saw the potential in Katie Jo. “She
was totally awesome to watch as an instructor,” said Tom. “She had
the presence of an adult and the knowledge of a seasoned veteran. She has
what it takes to be a instructor.” MGH offers FREE CPR classes every
quarter. The next class is set for Wednesday, March 5, 2008 at 6 p.m. at
MGH
LOCAL SURVEY
REPORTS PATIENTS’ HIGH REGARD FOR MASON
GENERAL – OFFICIALS LISTEN AND WANT MORE INPUT WITH FORUMS
A survey of Public Hospital District No. 1 residents finds
that those who use Mason General Hospital are more satisfied
than District residents who use other hospitals.
In July 2007, a local consumer opinion
telephone survey was conducted by a Seattle survey firm of
512 households in Mason County’s Public Hospital District
No. 1. The survey was part one, of three parts, to gather
information for Mason General Hospital’s strategic plan
to find out what District residents value and need in their
local healthcare.
The Seattle firm has extensive experience
conducting similar surveys for hospitals throughout the Pacific
Northwest.
The second and third part of this information-finding strategy
were focus groups conducted the first week of February. Then
beginning in mid-February, a Community Forum will be held,
with additional ones in March. District officials are
seeking residents’ input at the Community Forums – on
what they value and need in local healthcare services (types
of services, physicians, hospital care, etc.). The dates
are Wednesday, February 13, at the Shelton Civic Center 6 p.m.;
Wednesday, March 12, at the Alderbrook Resort, Union, 6 p.m.
and Thursday, March 13, at the Port of Allyn, 6 p.m.
“The Firm first took our 2007 survey findings and compared them with
the 2002 survey they did,” said Eric Moll, CAO at MGH. “They
then took these results and reviewed the MGH findings with
the survey results of other Northwest hospitals, to show how
we measure up with them.”
The following are some key points revealed in the survey:
- Patient satisfaction with outpatient surgery at MGH is
very strong (94%). This is higher than patient satisfaction
ratings for District residents who went elsewhere.
- Satisfaction with mammography services is also high relative
to other providers (76% for MGH versus 65% for other hospitals).
- MGH inpatients gave their experience at MGH a higher satisfaction
rating (86%) than patients surveyed at other hospitals.
- Urgent/emergency care satisfaction ratings for MGH
(61% - the highest in peer rating) compared very favorably
to ratings for other hospitals (53%).
- Among all the specific aspects of care at MGH tested in
the survey, the Hospital rates highest for its Food Services. In
all other surveys where food service has been tested, the
Firm reports this item rates at or near the bottom for other
hospitals.
- Other aspects of care at MGH that rated highly were nursing
care, cleanliness, comfort and attractiveness of the facilities,
and ease of facility use.
- A full 89% of all respondents had heard of or seen MGH’s
SCOPE newsletter. Two thirds of these respondents said
they look at all issues of SCOPE annually, and one third
gave SCOPE the highest possible satisfaction rating. The
survey also said that 22% of all respondents had heard of
or visited MGH’s web site www.MasonGeneral.com.
- The public believes local healthcare (MGH, clinics, doctors)
is improving in the level of care and service.
HOSPITAL GOES GREEN
The highly renowned and acclaimed Dietary Department
at Mason General Hospital, under the direction of Executive
Chef, John Cruse, is making a transition to more environmentally-friendly “green” products.
They are partnering with local businesses to purchase local
green products.
Currently,
MGH is purchasing free-range organic hens – free of chemicals and hormones – and
spring and summertime produce from Oakland Bay Farms. In addition, Olympic
Bakery has been brought into the family of health products.
Potato
starch products to replace plastics are also being purchased by MGH and sustainable
paper products made from sugar cane or bamboo fibers. “We plan to expand
our vendors over time,” said Cruse. “We are committed to making
this hospital as healthy and green as it can possibly be.” According
to Cruse, the next step is to create a hospital-wide recycling program for
canned and plastic goods and the composting of food waste.
HOSPITAL AWARDED RECOGNITION IN DIABETES EDUCATION
Mason
General Hospital’s Diabetes Wellness Center was recently awarded continued
Recognition from the American Diabetes Association for its self-management education
program. This prestigious award recognizes MGH for offering high-quality education
services to its patients.
This was a
voluntary process on MGH’s part, but once recognized, the award assures
that approved education programs have met the National Standards for Diabetes
Self-Management Education criteria. Programs that achieve Recognition status
have a staff of knowledgeable health professionals who can provide the most advanced
information about diabetes management for patients.
“The
criteria gives professionals a national standard by which to measure the quality
of the services they provide,” said Sue Barwick, R.N., certified diabetes
educator, and director of the Diabetes Wellness Center at MGH. “And,
of course, it helps consumers to identify these quality programs.”
Professionals
and staff who have contributed to this exclusive award are Michelle Merrin, Diabetes
Wellness Center assistant; Kris Davies, Quality Improvement assistant; Terry
Mallory, ARNP, diabetes nurse educator; Sarah Fulkerson, RD, certified diabetes
educator; Candy Mattson, RD, diabetes dietitian educator; Mark Schlauderaff,
MD, Diabetes Wellness Center director; Diane Stillman, RN, COO, Diabetes
Wellness Center advisory board member; Doug Haskins, Diabetes Wellness Center
advisory board member; Bob Appel, CEO; and Eric Moll, CAO. Additional professionals who regularly
serve as expert faculty in the outpatient Living Well With
Diabetes classes are John Rice, M. D; James Wright, M.D.
; Gretchen Rice, MSW; and Cheryl Woods, PT.
TOM HORNBURG, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR AT MASON GENERAL HOSPITAL
Tom Hornburg, MCSE, CCNA, CXE, A+, was recently
hired to be the Director of Information Technology at Mason
General Hospital. Tom came from Harrison Medical Center in
Bremerton where he worked for twenty-five years, most recently
as the manager of information technology. In his new position
Tom will oversee the modernization of MGH’s electronic
information infrastructure.
“I
plan to bring my years of experience from Harrison to move the
technology program at MGH forward while focusing on the business
objectives of MGH,” said Tom. “I am very grateful
to be here, as I am getting an opportunity to help mold MGH’s
technology to the meet the needs of the future.” Tom
and his wife, Dawn, have three sons and live in Seabeck.
GUSHEE NEW MEDICAL DIRECTOR AT MASON GENERAL
HOSPITAL
Dean E.
Gushee, M.D., chief-of-emergency services at Mason General
Hospital, was recently appointed to take on the new part-time
Medical Director duties there, also. Dr.
Gushee, board-certified in emergency medicine, will direct
the development of clinical pathways and their integration
in the technology initiatives currently underway at MGH.
Community-Associated Staph and MRSA Infections
At MGH we are on top of MRSA. Our infection control team is constantly working
on prevention in the hospital and out in the community.
Here is some advice:
Whenever you hear or read about Staph (Staphylococcus Aureus)
or MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus), most
often people think of a health facility-based infection.
Now community-associated Staph and MRSA infections are on the rise. Most
community-associated Staph or MRSA infections arise from the
skin or in the nose of otherwise healthy people. Folliculitis,
Impetigo, boils or pimples can easily lead to Staph or MRSA
infections.
Community-associated Staph or MRSA infections can be spread from person to person
through sharing personal items such as towels, razors and toothbrushes; using
athletic or gym equipment that has not been properly cleansed; or prolonged skin-to-skin
contact with someone who has a Staph or MRSA infection.
Prevention of community-associated Staph or MRSA infections
can be easy –
- don't
share personal items.
- make sure the gym you use has cleaning
supplies either you can use, or the equipment is cleaned
between each person’s use.
- clean
your home’s most often-touched areas (door handles,
light switches, etc.) with disinfectants.
- practice good health
hygiene by washing your hands and bathing regularly.
- wear
flip-flops when in public locker rooms. That includes schools.
If you think you have signs or
symptoms of a Staph or MRSA infection, don't
wait – see a healthcare provider right away. If you have
a Staph or MRSA infection, keep it to yourself; stay home,
don't share
your personal items and keep the infected area covered. Also,
wash contaminated clothing and linen in the washer with hot
water and laundry soap, then dry your clothing and linen in
the dryer on high heat. And as always, wash your hands.
Prevention is always the best route! Click here for
additional information
SHERRY CURTIS, APPOINTED TO
AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION’S
FACULTY
Sherry Curtis, a certified nursing/medical
assistant and education assistant at Mason General Hospital,
was recently appointed as Regional Faculty for the American
Heart Association, in Basic Life Support.
Sherry was nominated to this faculty position by MGH’s
Education Director, Tom DiDonna, R.N. “Sherry is an excellent
Basic Life Support instructor. With her role in CPR classes,
Sherry has contributed much to the community,” said DiDonna.
An American Heart Association Regional Faculty acts as the quality
assurance and ongoing expert in the field of basic life support. They
serve as resource on issues and protocols relating to training
centers, training center faculty, instructors, and ECC staff. A
large responsibility of the Regional Faculty is to act as a coach
and mentor to training centers and new instructors. This
is a two-year appointment.DON
WILSON HONORED BY BUSINESS EXAMINER
Don Wilson, commissioner of Public Hospital District
No. 1 of Mason County, an outstanding member of the medical
community in Thurston and Mason Counties, was selected by the
Business Examiner as 2007 Healthcare Champion in Support Services. Don
was chosen based on his extraordinary impact on healthcare,
and will was honored for his service in June 25,2008 in Olympia. He
has been a hospital district commissioner and in healthcare
service in many volunteer capacities since 1989.
HOSPITAL PHYSICIAN SELECTED FOR PRESTIGIOUS SERVICE
Dean
E. Gushee, M.D., chief-of-emergency services at Mason General
Hospital, recently participated as an oral examiner at the
American Board of Emergency Medicine oral certification examination. This
position requires four full days’ devotion to the examination process and
demands a high level of expertise and dedication to the specialty
of emergency medicine.
“MGH’s
willingness to support this program and the specialty of emergency medicine
is deeply appreciated,” said Lynnette Doan-Wiggins, M.D., president of
the American Board of Emergency Medicine. |
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MGH
Visiting Hours
8:00am to 8:30pm
Telephone
Shelton:
(360) 426-1611
Belfair:
(360) 275-8614
Location
901 Mtn. View Dr
Shelton WA 98584
Postal address
PO BOX 1668
Shelton WA 98584
Oakland
Bay Pediatrics
Office Hours
Monday - Friday
8:00am to 5:00pm
Telephone
(360) 426-3102
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