HeartBeatPROVIDENCE

QUALITY HEALTH CARE IN THE INLAND NORTHWEST | FALL 2016

Read Heart Beat on your tablet or smartphone. Just go to phc.org/heartbeat for the latest issue or to sign up for email delivery.

HAVING A BALL

An activity tracker is making fi tness fun again for school children in Spokane and Stevens counties

Beat

A HEALTHIER COMMUNITYProvidence explores ways to give everyone access to quality care

SHOULDERS, KNEES & TOESOutstanding stories of joint repair and replacement

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Our mobile-friendly website gives you wait times for Providence Urgent & Emergency Care! Go to WaitTimes.phc.org.

Providence Urgent Care - open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily at three convenient locations:North: Highway 2 at Hawthorne Road Downtown: Just off I-90 at Fifth & Division

Valley: One mile east of Sullivan on Indiana

Walk-ins welcome

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Good Quality of Life for All

THE PROVIDENCE VISION

“CREATING HEALTHIER COMMUNITIES, TOGETHER”We continue to pioneer care delivery, working with partners to improve our communities’ health and well-being.

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EXECUTIVE EDITOR MANAGING EDITOR Sharon Fairchild Nicole Stewart

MEDICAL EDITOR ASSOCIATE CREATIVE Je� Collins, M.D. DIRECTOR Matt MorganART DIRECTORCameron Anhalt

Elaine Couture, Chief Executive

BOARD OF DIRECTORSMarian Durkin, ChairPatricia Butterfi eld, Ph.D.Ramon Canto, M.D.Je� Clode, M.D.Dan Dionne, M.D.Rich Hadley Gary Livingston, Ph.D.Keith Marton, M.D.Rob McCann, Ph.D.

Thayne McCulloh, Ph.D.Mike Moore, M.D.Je� PhilippsPaul PimentelMark Schemmel, M.D.Mary SeleckyCurt ShoemakerLarry Soehren Ron Wells

Providence Health Care Eastern Washington (PHC) is the parent organization of a number of Catholic health care ministries sponsored by the Sisters of Providence and the Dominican Sisters in Spokane and Stevens counties. These ministries include:

HOSPITALSProvidence Sacred Heart Medical CenterSacred Heart Children’s HospitalProvidence Holy Family HospitalProvidence Mount Carmel Hospital (Colville)Providence St. Joseph’s Hospital (Chewelah)

OTHER HEALTH SERVICESProvidence Adult Day HealthProvidence DominiCare (Chewelah)Providence Emilie Court Assisted LivingProvidence Medical GroupProvidence Medical Park, Spokane ValleyProvidence St. Joseph Care Center & Transitional Care UnitProvidence VNA Home HealthSt. Luke’s Rehabilitation Institute

PHC is part of the Providence Health & Services health care system, which spans fi ve states from Alaska to California and east to Montana. For more details, visit phc.org.

MISSION STATEMENTAs people of Providence, we reveal God’s love for all, especially the poor and vulnerable, through our compassionate service.

CORE VALUESRespect | Compassion | Justice | Excellence | Stewardship

CONNECT WITH USfacebook.com/ProvidenceSpokanefacebook.com/ProvidenceSacredHeartyoutube.com/ProvidenceSpokane twitter.com/Providence_PHC

Copyright 2016 © Providence Health Care. Online at phc.org. Published three times a year by MANIFEST LLC. Send comments to heartbeat@providence.org or Marketing & Communication, 101 W. Eighth Ave., Spokane, WA 99204.

HeartBeatPROVIDENCE

FROM THE HEART

A healthy community ensures that all citizens enjoy a good quality of life. A number of

conditions factor in: physical envi-ronment, quality education, ample economic opportunities, housing and access to comprehensive health care.

Providence Health Care believes that health resources must be easily accessible to everyone for our com-munity to thrive. We partner with many agencies and organizations in the community to help make this happen. Our reach is far and wide.

In this issue of Heart Beat, we share some examples.

Turn to page 18 to read about inspirational initiatives like the Transitional Respite Care Program for the homeless, which recently

received a national achievement award.

Then, turn to page 10 to read about a bright, brave young girl who receives a lifesaving infusion every week at the Pediatric Hematology/Oncology and Infusion Clinic at Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital. The staff go to great lengths to ensure the clinic feels welcoming, comfort-able and heartwarming.

On page 22, read the remark-able stories about people’s lives changed by orthopedic surgery. You’ll see just how committed the orthopedic surgeons are to helping patients who have suff ered life-altering injuries.

In our daily work of ensuring patients receive the best and most advanced medical care possible, we are continuously extending our reach, working alongside com-munity partners to help ensure all citizens have access to the vital elements of a healthy community.

Elaine CoutureChief ExecutiveProvidence Health Care

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4 HEART BEAT FALL 2016

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CONTENTS VOLUME 54, NO. 3

1822

12

10

30

5 HEALTHY LIVING An important chat to have at Thanksgiving; tips for halting heartburn; and more.

8 INSIDER Superheroes at Children’s Hospital; a healing garden opens; first aid for basketball players.

10 CHILDREN’S HEALTH Treatment is specially tailored for young patients needing infusion therapy.

12 CARDIAC REPORT Heart surgery using only a minor incision opens up people's options.

26 COMMUNITY A new local teaching clinic aims to retain more physicians in eastern Washington.

28 FOUNDATION The Providence Sacred Heart Gift Shop donates proceeds to support health care programs.

29 M.D. SPOTLIGHT A liver and pancreas surgeon shares what is most rewarding about his work.

30 CALENDAR Save the dates for these fall 2016 classes, events and activities.

31 HEALTH TIP Are you making these five mistakes when you stretch? A physical therapist explains.

32 ROLE MODEL This off-duty nurse was at the right place at the right time to save a runner's life.

Features

14 YOUTH MOVEMENT Local fourth and fifth graders are learning healthy life habits thanks to an entertaining activity tracker.

18 BETTER HEALTH FOR ALL Providence is positively influencing people’s access to housing, health care and other key factors of a community’s welfare.

22 BODY OF EVIDENCE Read three outstanding stories of lives changed through orthopedic surgery expertise.

ON THE COVER: Eliana Starbuck is having so much fun with her activity tracker at school, her family got involved at home. See page 14. Photo by Gary Matoso.

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HEALTHY LIVING

Every year, more than 100 million boxes of apples are harvested in Washington. Each box weighs about 40 pounds.

3 Reasons Apples Are AppealingYou’ve heard that an apple a day keeps the

doctor away. Well, there’s good reason—

apples are jampacked with goodness. Savor

a crunchy bite and relish the health benefi ts.

1. FIBER. This fruit is a good source of

fi ber—a medium apple with the peel on

has more than 4 grams. Fiber helps control

blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and

it’s important for intestinal health. Plus,

because fi ber helps you feel fuller longer,

it’s a powerful ally in weight loss.

2. ANTIOXIDANTS. Apples have high anti-

oxidant advantages, potentially reducing

risk of chronic disease, including heart

disease and cancer.

3. POLYPHENOLS. These micronutrients

found in plant-based foods, such as apples,

improve the digestion and absorption

of carbohydrates and ultimately how we

process and regulate blood sugar, possibly

reducing risk for diabetes.

DID YOU KNOW?

TRY ITApple wedges pair well with peanut butter and can add a tart crunch to your lunchtime salad. For a deliciously autumnal dessert, throw a few slices in a pan with a little butter and cinnamon.

SHARE YOUR HEALTHFUL EATING TIPSHave good ideas for including healthier foods in your family’s meals? Share them with us on our Facebook page. Go to facebook.com/ProvidenceSpokane or email heartbeat@providence. org.

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HEALTHY LIVING

Know Which Health Issues Run in Your FamilyOn Thanksgiving Day, the U.S. Surgeon General asks us to think about and talk about our family health history, declaring it National Family History Day.

Most of us know that family health history is important—after all, it plays a role in our risk for heart disease, cancer, diabetes and other conditions. But only about a third of us have made the e� ort to gather the information.

So, after you carve the turkey and pass the potatoes, start this important conversation by talking about the health problems in your family and documenting what you learn. It could be useful in determining your personal disease risk and screening schedule.

Watch What You’re EatingThe average Thanksgiving meal can reach 3,000 calories,

according to the Calorie Control Council. Plus, grazing on appetizers, snacks and desserts can add 1,500 more

calories. That’s twice what many people should eat in a day! Here are some high-calorie culprits.

MIXED NUTS1⁄2 cup

407 calories

CRANBERRY SAUCE1⁄2 cup

209 calories

BAKED HAM3 slices

345 calories(+ 178 cal for gravy)

EGGNOG1 cup

342 calories(+ 97 cal for alcohol)

BREAD STUFFING1 cup

355 calories

PECAN PIE1 slice (1⁄8 of pie)

456 calories

YOUR MOUTH: A WINDOW TO YOUR HEALTH

You might not realize it, but your mouth holds a lot of clues to your overall health. In fact, some early signs of heart disease, diabetes and other conditions show up in dental exams. Your dentist can then rec-ommend that you see your doctor for early treatment.

3 Ways to a Brighter Smile, Naturally

Want to keep those pearly whites as healthy and white as possible? In addition to daily brushing and fl ossing, try these tips:

Cut back on sugary foods and drinks. Besides contributing to weight gain and other health issues, consuming sugar leads to the production of acids that attack tooth enamel.

Drink water after meals and snacks. Doing so helps counter enamel-eroding acid.

Limit teeth-staining beverages. When you do enjoy your co� ee, tea or red wine, use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth, and rinse or brush soon afterward.

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111 MILLIONThis many workdays are missed in the U.S. due to the fl u each year, equating to about $7 billion in lost productivity. Save your time o� —get the fl u vaccine! Call your doctor’s o� ce or check with the Spokane Regional Health District at srhd.org or 509-324-1500.

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Nearly a quarter of the nation’s weather-related vehicle crashes happen on snowy, slushy or icy roads, according to the Federal Highway Administration. Your best approach to adverse conditions is to drive slowly. But if you fi nd yourself in a skid on an icy road:

1. Stay calm, and resist the urge to slam on the brakes.

2. Take your feet o� both pedals.

3. Turn your steering wheel in the direction you want to go.

4. Wait for the tires to grip the road again and steer gently.

HOW TO HANDLE A SKIDDING VEHICLE

Had Enough of

Heartburn?Heartburn during the holidays is prevalent. That’s because we tend to overindulge. To keep the burn at bay, focus on eating slowly and drinking plenty of water at your next gathering.

Also, keep an eye out for your heartburn trig-gers, which might include ca� eine, chocolate, alcohol, citrus, tomato products, high-fat foods and mint.

Try not to eat too much before exercising or going to bed. Exertion or lying down soon after a meal can spark a bout of heartburn.

Finally—and this is important!—severe heartburn and a heart attack can feel similar. If you have chest pain that feels like uncomfortable pres-sure, squeezing or fullness and you aren’t sure it’s heartburn, call 911.

GET HELP FOR DIGESTIVE DISTRESSIf you have persistent heartburn, you should have it checked out by your provider. Visit washington.providence.org/fi nd-a-provider to schedule an appointment.

you want to go.

4. Wait for the tires to grip the road again and steer gently.

you want to go.

Wait for the tires to grip the road again and steer gently.

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INSIDER

8 HEART BEAT FALL 2016

Clients at Providence Adult Day Health are enjoying a beautiful and tranquil new garden, thanks to donations to Providence Health Care Foundation. “The garden is for residents to meditate, contemplate, socialize and remember,” says Oscar Haupt, manager of the daytime care program.

Superhero Day for KidsWhen the windows need cleaning at Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital, superheroes come to the rescue. West Coast Window Cleaners celebrated the third annual superhero day with kids by delivering superpowers, gigantic smiles and webs of giggles. Who knew window cleaning could be so much fun?

Makings of aMEMORY GARDEN

If you are caring for an elderly or disabled person, Providence Adult Day Health off ers respite for care-givers while providing nursing care, rehabilitation, health monitoring and activities for your loved one. To donate or to inquire about naming opportunities, call 509-474-4917.

YOU CAN BE A HERO, TOOConsider making a gift to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals of the Inland Northwest. Visit cmnspokane.org.

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Collaborating in Your Cancer CareWhen you’re fi ghting cancer, you need strong allies on your side. The InnerPacifi c Alliance for Cancer Care brings the combined strength of Cancer Care Northwest, Kootenai Health and Providence Health Care (Sacred Heart Medical Center & Children’s Hospital and Holy Family Hospital) to your cancer care team.

Members of InnerPacifi c Alliance for Cancer Care make sure you have the best physicians, technologists, nurses and equipment our region has to off er. Your care is coordinated among all care providers. And with eight locations throughout the region, your care is convenient.

For more information about InnerPacifi c Alliance for Cancer Care, visit innerpacifi calliance.org or call 509-228-1000.

HIGH PRAISE FOR OUR HEALTH CAREProvidence Health Care recently has been recognized for quality by three more organizations.

NO. 2 HOSPITAL IN WASHINGTON STATE By: U.S. News & World ReportFacility: Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center & Children’s Hospital, SpokaneFor: Variety of patient outcome and care-related factors, such as patient safety and nurse staffi ng

THREE STARS (ONE OF ONLY 12 HOSPITALS IN NATION)By: Society of Thoracic SurgeonsFacility: Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center, SpokaneFor: Isolated coronary artery bypass grafting, isolated aortic valve replacement, and procedures involving both coronary artery bypass and aortic valve

TOP 20 CRITICAL ACCESS HOSPITAL IN AMERICABy: National Rural Health AssociationFacility: Providence Mount Carmel Hospital, ColvilleFor: Overall performance in inpatient and outpatient market share, population risk, cost, charge, quality, outcomes, patient perspectives and fi nancial stability

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WHEN HOOPS TURN TO OOPS

Injuries happen, especially at the world’s largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament. As the offi cial medical sponsor of Hoopfest 2016, Providence treated 546 players with strains, sprains, wounds, cuts or blisters at its three fi rst-aid tents. Did you receive help at one of our fi rst-aid tents? Email your story to heartbeat@providence.org.

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CHILDREN’S HEALTH

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Less Clinical, More CareProviders tailor treatments to suit the unique needs of young patients.

A va Vanderhoef has received infusion therapy every week for nearly three years.

Though she’s become accustomed to the routine, she still dreads the moment when the nurse inserts the needle into her chest.

“I just hate needles,” the 8-year-old says. But once the needle is connected—a process known as “accessing”—to a port catheter under her skin, Ava relaxes. She helps the nurse secure the line attached to a saline drip, the delivery system for an essential enzyme

missing from her body. Then she set-tles in for eight hours of treatment.

ROUTINESAva was born with mucopolysac-charidosis type IV, or MPS IV, with skeletal dysplasia that limits growth and mobility. People with MPS IV

Ann Walker oversees weekly art therapy sessions for Ava Vanderhoef and other patients in the Infusion Clinic.

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By Allison Milionis

READ ON YOUR TABLET OR PHONE: PHC.ORG/HEARTBEAT 11

don’t have an enzyme that breaks down sugar in the blood cells. Long-term enzyme replacement therapy is essential, as there is no cure.

Every Thursday morning at the crack of dawn, Ava and her father, Nathan, make the drive from Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, to the Pediatric Hematology/Oncology and Infusion Clinic at Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital.

After they sign in at the front desk, Ava’s vitals are checked before she and Nathan go to the

“jellybean” room, named for its whimsical decor. There, Ava’s port is accessed and the essential fluid begins its slow, steady drip into a vein. “Hopefully one day they’ll invent something I can just drink,” Ava says.

PASTIMESDuring her infusion therapy, Ava does homework, plays Minecraft on her tablet or watches television. Some days, she makes art with the help of Ann Walker, an art therapist and coordinator of the Arts in Healing program at Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital. Lately, Ava has been working with paints. Last year, she was interested in creating jewelry with colorful glass beads.

Walker visits the Infusion Clinic every week, bringing a wide array of art supplies for patients to use while they are there. “I let the kids choose what they want to do,” Walker says. “This is one way to give them some control and empowerment in their lives.”

The weekly art therapy visits are only one type of support available to patients. Child life therapists and social workers also are present to meet the unique needs of patients and their families.

Victoria Wendt, RN, and nurse manager Nicole Lane work along-side eight pediatric oncology nurses trained in infusion therapy. Staff members are extremely sensitive to their patients’ anxieties and do everything possible to create an environment that is calm, soothing and even fun. They encourage fam-ilies to remain with their children during their infusions and to bring in personal items from home, such as favorite toys and photographs.

“All nurses go above and beyond, but nurse Jane has a special place in our hearts,” Nathan says, applaud-ing one provider in particular. “She’s really good with Ava. She treats the kids like her own.”

RELATIONSHIPSPatients, families and staff forge strong and meaningful bonds over the weeks, months and years of treatments. They share stories, swap recipes, celebrate life’s triumphs and support one another during hard times. “We’re an exten-sion of their own family,” Lane says. “And they’re an extension of ours.”

As a special treat, professional athletes and performers make guest appearances at the clinic. Ava rattled off a long list of movie characters she’s met, as well as cheerleaders, baseball players and ice skaters. Ava’s favorite visitor? The princesses from Disney On Ice. “It was a dream come true to meet them,” she says.

ART’S HEALING POWERSPeople who engage in creative arts may enjoy reduced stress, need less pain medication and heal faster. For more information or to support this program, visit phc.org/artsinhealing.

1,500Pediatric patients and families

seen in 2015 through the Arts in Healing program

900Pediatric patients cared

for each year in the Infusion Clinic

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CARDIAC REPORT

12 HEART BEAT FALL 2016

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Good luck keeping up with Janet Piger. When she’s not

swimming laps, lifting weights or pedaling a stationary bike, she’s attending a library board meeting or volunteering at her church. “I try to keep as busy as I can, and exer-cise properly,” says the 83-year-old, who has always watched her diet and remained active. So she didn’t waste any time getting back to her condo complex’s pool and fi tness center—just two months after her heart surgery.

Heart surgery might bring to mind a huge incision or a cracked-open chest. Neither of these hap-pen with TAVR, or transcatheter aortic valve replacement, Piger’s surgery. This minimally invasive procedure treats aortic valve steno-sis, a narrowing of the aortic valve opening that aff ects mostly people in their 70s and 80s. Piger joins more than 400 others since 2011 who have had TAVR at Providence Spokane Heart Institute, which has one of the largest and most

experienced teams of surgeons and cardiologists in the region.

TAVR, performed under general anesthesia, requires only the smallest incision, through the groin or chest. At Providence, a cardiol-ogist and a cardiac surgeon work together to insert an animal-tissue valve into the large artery using a catheter, or thin tube. Using X-ray views, they ease the replacement valve up to the heart, then gently push the damaged valve aside and implant the new one.

Clearing the WayInnovative surgery replaces blocked heart valve with only a minor incision.

Janet Piger had a heart valve replaced and has plenty of energy for swimming and other activities.

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By Claire Sykes

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Careful Selection“It’s a highly regulated procedure,” says Matthew Forrester, M.D., Providence cardiac surgeon, and not everyone can have it. “Based on the latest clinical trials, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and Medicare allow only patients at a moderate to high risk for conven-tional, open-heart surgery to be candidates for TAVR.” Patients also have to have at least two chronic health conditions at once, be elderly or have difficulty traveling.

Providence specialists in radiology, anesthesiology and other areas team up with a cardiologist and a cardiac surgeon. “We look at the patient’s images, lab work and medical history, relative to various studies and research databases, to predict the person’s risks with TAVR,” Dr. Forrester says.

Michael Ring, M.D., Providence cardiologist, adds, “We consider all the surgical options, in addition to TAVR. Two heart surgeons must concur that conventional surgery is too risky before we perform the TAVR procedure.” Doctors also need to know whether it’s technically feasible, so they require a specialized CT scan.

Support Through the ProcessPiger was relieved when her cardi-ologist gave her the go-ahead for TAVR. “It’s an attractive procedure

in appropriate patients because it’s less invasive and improves symptoms and quality of life,” Dr. Ring says. Along with saving lives, TAVR results in less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, faster recovery and smaller scars.

“All of the staff at Providence were so great,” Piger says. “They explained things in detail to me. And the surgeons, they were very kind to me and my son and daughter-in-law.”

“We provide a lot of help to the patient before surgery, so they can do better afterward,” Dr. Forrester adds. “Our social workers, case managers and palliative care specialists make sure patients have the most appro-priate recovery plan.”

On the Move AgainAfter only a couple of days in the hospital, Piger returned to her condo, where a home-health provider helped her readjust to everyday responsibilities, such as taking a shower and fixing meals. A physical therapist got her going. “There were exercises while in a chair and standing, for balance, and walking,” Piger says. “I progressed by doing. You can’t just sit.” Before she knew it, she was back in the pool and working with her fitness trainer. “I have lots more energy now and can do everything I did before,” adds Piger, who also has taken a few trips since her surgery. “It’s hard to catch me at home.”

TAVR keeps moving, too. “Even better methods are quickly coming,” Dr. Forrester says. “It’s humbling to know that the procedures I do now might be replaced with completely different technology that I don’t even know yet. And that’s exciting.”

HOW MUCH DO YOU KNOW ABOUT HEART DISEASE?Take our quiz to find out. Go to providence.org/heartquiz and answer the true-false questions, then discuss the results with your health care provider.

Be Active Like JanetExercise is good for your heart and

comes in many forms, including

activities that feel more like fun:

SWIM.

It’s an excellent exercise

choice that’s easier on

your joints. Just ask Janet.

REDISCOVER A FAVORITE SPORT.

Whether you love

the elegance of golf

or the challenge of

tennis, make time for

these leisure activities.

If possible, vary your

sports to work different

muscle groups.

GO BOWLING.

Join a league or make

a weekly date with

friends. If you have

children or grandchil-

dren, bring them along.

DANCE.

Sign up for a dance class

with your spouse or a

friend or carve out some

time on your own.

ENJOY THE GREAT OUTDOORS.

When the weather

cooperates, ride your

bike, hike at a local park

or simply walk around

the block.

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14 HEART BEAT FALL 2016

YouthMOVEMENTA physical activity tracker combines today’s technology with yesterday’s playtime, encouraging children to adopt healthier lifestyles.

STORY BY LIZ DERUYTER | PHOTOS BY GARY MATOSO AND STEVEN NAVRATIL

Red Rover, Red Rover, send Jimmy right over.Remind you of anything? For many of us,

these were among the familiar chants of our youth, echoed across playgrounds and back-

yards during school recesses and summer vacations. We had an ever-ready collection of fun activities that friends could play at the drop of a hat, indoors or out, and all day if our parents and teachers allowed it.

The Sqord activity tracker, worn on the wrist or ankle, is designed to encourage children to move more at school and at home.

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It’s not really so diff erent today, just that the games most kids play are video games and the friends are online. Competition is alive and well, but in today’s world, it is often the fastest thumb that wins. Not much physical activity is required.

So why not combine today’s tech-nology with old-school activities and see if we can get young people moving again?

“That’s the idea behind Sqord,” explains Elaine Couture, chief execu-tive at Providence Health Care. “We wanted to use the technology that kids love in a way that makes them want to move.”

HOW THE PROGRAM WORKSKids wear an activity tracker called a Sqord (pronounced “scored”) on their wrist or ankle. It is similar to a pedometer, with added kid appeal.

The tracker, which is waterproof and otherwise kid-proof, measures the intensity of the wearer’s activity and converts play into points. For exam-ple, a minute of jumping jacks scores higher than tapping feet at a desk. All activity counts, even washing dinner dishes, so long as there is movement.

Meanwhile, participants use a kid-safe app to create their own PowerMe character, a personalized online cartoon icon, or avatar. Then, when they sync their activity tracker with the app, their avatar accrues activity points that are paid out in “sqoins.” They use sqoins to upgrade their avatar, and compete with friends and classmates for bragging rights.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONIt seemed like such a good idea that Providence teamed up with school districts and Sqord to make the devices and activity program available to fourth and fi fth graders at selected sites in fi ve states.

Fifth graders were chosen for the Sqord Active Play Program, because recent studies show that physical

A Family That Sqords TogetherThe Sqord activity program for elementary school students in Spokane

and Stevens counties has had unanticipated rewards that extend well

beyond the classroom.

“When my daughter was given a Sqord, I quickly realized I wanted one as

well,” says Pamela Starbuck, whose daughter Eliana is a student at Je� erson

Elementary. Pamela bought Sqord trackers for herself and her younger

daughter so the three could enjoy family competition.

“My mom’s in third place,” Eliana shares. “She has more points than Mrs.

Goodey.” (Sarah Goodey is a fi tness and health specialist with Spokane

Public Schools.)

“My daughters defi nitely come home from school sweatier than before the

Sqord project,” Pamela says. “They are naturally early risers, but now they

get extra points for dressing and straightening up the house before school.”

Healthy doses of exercise have become part of the family’s routine. Eliana’s

father, Scott, is an avid Sqord supporter and has taken up distance cycling

as part of his fi tness regimen. “We’re making activity a family goal and

encouraging each other,” Pamela says. “We even became a one-car family

and now walk whenever possible.”

Eliana Starbuck brought her enthusiasm for Sqord activity trackers home, and now her family members have the devices, too.

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16 HEART BEAT FALL 2016

their activity on home computers and smartphones, and parents have access to the program. Anytime students sync their Sqord, they see points add up, a motivating factor.

“The app tracks individual activity, and it can also record the cumulative progress of classrooms, schools, districts, or family and friend groups, creating a fun envi-ronment for competition,” explains Sarah Goodey, fi tness and health specialist with Spokane Public Schools. “It’s a great way to moti-vate kids to move.”

KEEPING SQORDIt’s time for physical education at Jeff erson Elementary in Spokane. “Rock, paper, scissors!” Goodey calls out. She uses the grade-school hand game to determine which students can go to a nearby tablet and sync their Sqords to view their activity. Their PowerMe avatars appear on screen and points add up. “I’m in second place!” Eliana exclaims.

Shouts of “booyah!” ring out in the gymnasium as students compare their points with other classmates.

To help encourage participation, Goodey posts results in the front lobby and prizes are given away to classes, individuals and even teachers. Awards for “most activity increased,” “most active hour,” “most engaged” and “personal best” recognize children at all levels of activity.

activity drops from 180 minutes per day to fewer than 43 minutes between ages 9 and 14.

“We want to curb that trend, and motivate our youths to stay active,” Couture explains. “It’s part of Providence’s work to get upstream of health issues and encourage healthy lifestyle habits that are sustainable over time.”

Following a pilot phase last year in the Inland Northwest, the program kicked off Jan. 4 for fi fth graders in Spokane Public Schools

and March 1 for fourth and fi fth graders in Stevens County. In addi-tion, Spokane’s YMCA provided after-school Sqord activities at fi ve elementary schools.

With permission from their parents, students in participat-ing classrooms at 39 elementary schools were given Sqord activity trackers. As part of the project, schools received tablets, allowing students to easily sync their activity throughout the day and track their points. Students can also track

GET ON BOARD WITH SQORDWhen activity is fun, kids start to build lifelong habits to avoid health problems, such as obesity and diabetes. To purchase a Sqord activity tracker for your family, visit sqord.com or talk to the physical education teacher at your child’s school.

Fitness and health specialist Sarah Goodey demonstrates how a child’s activity information syncs to a tablet.

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Sqord also inspires fun with online rewards and virtual “high fi ves.” Active play has become a part of students’ daily activities at school and at home.

Also, the fun doesn’t stop when the school year ends. Even in summer, kids track their activity and earn sqoins. They already have their existing school groups, and they can create new groups of friends and family—anyone with the Sqord activity tracker. For the 2016–17 school year, approximately 5,600 students in Spokane and Stevens counties have Sqord.

As much as the world changes, some things remain the same. “Kids still want to play games like Red Rover and Simon Says, just like when we were kids,” Couture says. “We’re just using technology to reinvigorate our youths.”

Reversing an Unhealthy TrendThere is plenty of evidence to suggest that physical activity is key to good

health. And the converse is true as well. Research has shown a link between

sedentary lifestyles and childhood obesity. The Centers for Disease Control

and Prevention estimates that nearly one in fi ve young children and teenag-

ers in the U.S. is obese, and one in three children is overweight.

In Spokane County, the numbers are similar. According to Spokane Counts,

in 2014, one in four adolescents was overweight or obese, increasing the

child’s risk for physical, social and psychological problems and making him

or her more likely to become an overweight or obese adult.

It’s a trend that’s headed in the wrong direction. Obesity is more than twice

as common as it was in 1980.

Early indications suggest the Spokane and Stevens County Sqord project

may help move the dial. “These kids are obsessed with getting activity

points,” says Sarah Goodey, a fi tness and health specialist with Spokane

Public Schools. “Kids who are addicted to playing video games are now

going outside to play with friends.”

45%VERY ACTIVE

17%ACTIVE

10%MODERATELY ACTIVE

23%LOW ACTIVITY

5%INACTIVE

Making Strides Early data collected from the Sqord

program are impressive. Children are

wearing their activity trackers for an

average of nine hours a day, and nearly

half are recording high activity levels.

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18 HEART BEAT FALL 2016

Health care organizations are responsible for ensuring they have the expertise and technology

to diagnose and treat disease. But care in medical facilities is just part of what contributes to our overall health. In fact, experts say only about 20 percent of a community’s welfare can be attributed to access to quality health care resources.

“Clinical care is extremely important,” says Joel McCullough, M.D., MPH, medical director for community health and epidemiol­ogy at Providence Health Care. “But in terms of improving the health of the population, we also have to address health behaviors, the

physical environment and socio­economic factors in a strategic way.”

To positively influence these many factors of a community’s health, Providence Health Care is working with a wide variety of partners.

“One of the things that we do well at Providence is collaboration,” says Elaine Couture, RN, BSN, MBA, chief executive at Providence Health Care. “We have to look to other agencies in the community that we can partner with that bring in their own expertise.”

Why does it matter? Because when you build a healthy commu­nity, you have residents who are vibrant and able to contribute to the community, and you can lower

health care costs over the long term, Dr. McCullough says.

Here is a look at a few of the innovative ways Providence is working to improve the communi­ty’s health.

PROVIDING A PLACE TO HEALAbout 5 percent of people who are seen in the emergency department at Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center are homeless. When you leave the hospital after an illness or an injury, you’re typically still in a phase of healing. You need rest and comfort and, often, follow­up care. Those who are homeless have nowhere to go.

STORY BY STEPHANIE CONNER

PHOTOS BY CATHOLIC HEALTH ASSOCIATION AND GARY MATOSO

Better Health for

When each member of our community has access to care, everyone benefits. Here’s why—and what Providence is doing about it.

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In November 2012, Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center teamed up with Catholic Charities to create the Transitional Respite Care Program for the homeless. It started with just one bed and grew to three within the fi rst few months. Today, a total of 20 beds at Catholic Charities’ House of Charity and at Volunteers of America’s Hope House are set aside for homeless men and women who have been discharged from hospitals.

“We’re providing space and a helping hand, so they’re not so medically vulnerable,” explains Pete Lockwood, program coordinator at House of Charity.

When people are able to heal, they are less likely to return to the hospital emergency department for care. And that’s both a moral and a fi nancial issue for the community.

Doctors reluctant to discharge a homeless patient to the streets might keep the person in the hospital for a few extra days. That costs roughly $3,200 per day, according to a Kaiser Family Foundation estimate. An overnight stay at the respite program

at House of Charity, meanwhile, costs $60, and it’s even less ($7.26) for people not needing respite care.

When people recover at House of Charity, they also get three meals a day, showers, clothing, transporta-tion to follow-up appointments and access to a nurse.

“One of the catalysts for getting this program up and running was saving money, because it costs a lot to have them in the hospital,” Lockwood says. “But it’s about more than money. It’s about people.”

ELIMINATING HOMELESSNESSGetting ahead of health issues for the homeless goes beyond respite care. The goal is to eradicate homelessness. In Spokane, there are about 360 chronically homeless individuals. “These are the street homeless,” says Rob McCann, executive director for Catholic Charities of Spokane. “They are the people you see pushing shopping carts, carrying everything they own on their backs or living in shelters.”

Catholic Charities’ Transitional Respite Care Program

for the Homeless (2015)

173Men in the program

20Women in the program

4,828Total nights spent by individuals at

Catholic Charities’ House of Charity and at Volunteer of America’s

Hope House

$15 MEstimated annual savings to the health

care system from people staying in respite care settings instead of

spending extra days in the hospital

Respite beds are set aside for homeless people who have been discharged from area hospitals.

People who leave the hospital and enter Catholic Charities’ Transitional Respite Care Program also receive on-site follow-up appointments with Providence providers.

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20 HEART BEAT FALL 2016

When people have housing, they can focus on their health and other issues. Plus, McCann explains, “it’s saving a person’s human dignity.”

One chronically homeless person who was well-known by Sacred Heart emergency department physi-cians illustrates the benefi t. He had been to the emergency department 61 times in a single year. In the fi rst year that he had permanent housing at Catholic Charities, he went to the emergency department only twice.

“It is part of our Mission to take care of the poor and vulnerable,” Dr. McCullough says. “And if we and our community partners are successful, it will improve health care costs, too.”

SUPPLYING FOOD SECURITYOther collaborative eff orts address physical environment and health behaviors. In 2011, Michele Sakurai, manager of pastoral care for Providence Health Care Stevens County, was asked to lead an initiative to address hunger.

In the tri-county area, she says, there are about 15,000 people who lack reliable access to aff ordable, nutritious food.

In her early discussions with other community groups, she learned that the problem went beyond hunger. Not having healthy food was putting people at risk for obesity, diabetes and other health problems.

Also, these people frequently face mental health issues and addiction.

“Our homeless population in Spokane uses an inordinate amount of taxpayer-funded services and other local services,” McCann says. Between the hospital, social services and possibly even jail, a homeless person could cost between $50,000 and $200,000 a year, he adds.

“But if we’re able to house them, we can keep those costs down,” he continues. That’s why Catholic Charities is working to provide permanent housing for homeless individuals. “By 2020, our plan is to have built an apartment for every single homeless person in Spokane,” he says.

Wanting to Create a Healthier CommunityEarlier this year, Joel McCullough, M.D., MPH,

joined Providence Health Care as medical director

for community health and epidemiology. He had

previously been health o� cer for the Spokane

Regional Health District, where he was widely

respected for his work.

Board-certifi ed in preventive medicine and internal

medicine, he also has master’s degrees in public

health as well as community health and preventive

medicine.

At Providence, his role is to help the organization

determine where to invest community health dollars

for maximum impact.

“Community health … is the health of everybody in

our geographic area,” he says.

And it goes beyond what Providence’s doctors,

nurses and sta� do every day. Addressing commu-

nity health, he adds, also involves where people live,

how they access health resources and what actions

they take each day.

“How do we create a healthier community through

policies and changes in our environment?” Dr.

McCullough wonders. In his new role, he hopes to

uncover some answers and make a di� erence.

In his new role at Providence Health Care, Joel McCullough, M.D., MPH, seeks to improve the health of the population.

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North Eastern Washington (NEW) Hunger Coalition was born to address hunger throughout the region. It brings together about 25 partners, including several food banks, Washington State University Extension, Rural Resources Community Action and Northeast Tri County Health District.

One solution was bringing fresh fruits and vegetables to people who needed them. But an obstacle, Sakurai uncovered, was that food banks can’t receive fresh produce unless they have refrigeration.

Sakurai and others through the Hunger Coalition trained food bank staff on grant writing to help them procure funds they needed. And Providence took care of refriger-ation applications for seven food banks in the fi rst year. The Hunger Coalition also has contracted with local farms to get food and secured a donated refrigerated truck from Second Harvest for transport.

“The greatest success for the Hunger Coalition is the relationship we’ve built with Northwest Harvest and Second Harvest for the delivery of food to the food banks,” Sakurai says. “The Hunger Coalition doesn’t itself feed people. We have developed a network so that people have easier access to healthy food.”

SCREENING FOR PREDIABETESCommunity outreach and education is another key to improving the overall health of our community. In a new pilot program, Providence health educators trained Second Harvest volunteers on administering a basic prediabetes risk assessment with customers of the food bank.

In a month and a half, volunteers conducted a number of screenings at the food bank.

“If someone was determined to be at risk, they were given informa-tion on our diabetes prevention pro-gram,” says Emily Fleury, director of community wellness and health training at Inland Northwest Health Services, an affi liate of Providence.

Those enrolled in the diabetes prevention class will attend sessions

Participants of a yearlong diabetes prevention class learn how to change their behavior and reduce their risk for disease.

By tracking activity, understanding measurements like weight and blood pressure, learning about nutrition and gaining support, people can begin to change their behavior and reduce their risk for disease.

at Second Harvest. The class is free to them and lasts a year.

Throughout the class, participants track their weight, physical activity and blood pressure. By understand-ing these measurements, learning about nutrition and gaining support, people can begin to change their behavior and reduce their risk for disease, proving the eff ectiveness of this research-based program.

CONTINUING TO TACKLE THE BIG ISSUESBy helping to provide community education on healthier living, ensuring people have access to healthy food and working to help the homeless in our community, Providence Health Care and its partners are driving better health for all.

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22 HEART BEAT FALL 2016

CR

ED

IT

22 HEART BEAT FALL 2016

EVIDENCEThree success stories showcase the orthopedic expertise at Providence Health Care.

BODYOF

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Orthopedic surgery changes lives every day. Surgeons help people regain mobility,

eliminate pain and restore func-tion to continue to lead full and productive lives. Here are three outstanding stories out of the thousands that are told each year at Providence Health Care.

George Stumph’s ShoulderHe has worked in construction all his life.

“I was in the elevator industry,” George Stumph says. “You do a tremendous amount of pushing, pulling, drilling—things like that—that are rough on the body.”

Stumph’s profession took a phys-ical toll, and he began to experience the pain of arthritis in his 30s. That and the fact that he required surgery to repair a shoulder injury meant Stumph was constantly in pain.

“You stand it as long as you can stand it, but then you get to a point where you decide enough is enough,” he says.

Stumph had his fi rst joint replacement, his left knee, in 1990, at age 40. He later had a second left knee replacement, two hip replace-ments and a shoulder replacement.

When it came to choosing a doctor for another shoulder replacement, Stumph was diligent. “Knowing how diffi cult shoulder surgeries are, I wanted to make sure the doctor I chose fi lled a certain set of criteria,” he says. “I got recom-mendations and did my research.”

Stumph selected Erica Burns, M.D., at Providence Medical Group, to take his case.

“By the time George came to see me, he already had a diagnosis of arthritis and had signifi cant stiff ness in his shoulders and pain that was keeping him up at night,”

Dr. Burns says. “Once you get to that point, replacement surgery is really the only option.”

Stumph says he made the right decision in going to Dr. Burns.

“I don’t know how the procedure could’ve gone any better,” he says. “With my fi rst shoulder surgery years ago, I had a long and diffi cult recovery. But this one was diff erent. I even went off the pain meds early.”

These days Stumph is back at work, now on the management side of the business but still very active visiting job sites and climbing stairs. He likes to sail with his wife, Barbara, and visit with his grandchildren, one of whom he watches one day a week.

“Overall, for someone who’s had 15 surgeries and signifi cant issues with his joints, I feel very fortunate to still be doing what I’m doing,” Stumph says. “Aside from a little osteoarthritis, I’m happy and healthy.”

George Stumph had his shoulder replaced and is now back to work—and play.

STORY BY SHELLEY FLANNERYPHOTOS BY GARY MATOSO

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At age 6, Olivia Lollis broke her arm and needed the care of a specialized surgeon.

24 HEART BEAT FALL 2016

Olivia Lollis’ ElbowOrthopedic issues don’t only affect adults. Olivia Lollis was just 6 when she fell from a 3-foot wall while playing and suffered a compound fracture to her left elbow.

“That joint is a fairly common one to break in children ages 3 to 6 because of where the growth plates are,” says Chad Harbour, M.D., a trauma and general orthopedic sur-geon at Providence Medical Group. “But a break as severe as Olivia’s,

where the bone comes through the skin, isn’t very common.”

Olivia’s mother, Chelsea, a Sacred Heart pediatric nurse, was working when she got the call. She met her daughter and her husband, Luke, in the emergency department.

“I wasn’t too concerned when I first heard she’d broken her arm, but then I saw her, and her arm was bloody and gray,” Chelsea says.

Emergency staff rushed Olivia into surgery with Dr. Harbour, who

determined that the broken bone had severed an artery in the girl’s arm, which was subsequently dying from lack of oxygen. Dr. Harbour called upon Sacred Heart’s vascular team and a surgical specialist.

The seven-hour procedure was successful. Dr. Harbour set the bone with pins and Emily Williams, M.D., harvested a section of artery from Olivia’s leg and placed it in her arm.

Today, the 8-year-old is doing great and loves to swim, read, ride her bike, dance and play outside.

“She has full use of everything,” Chelsea says. “If you didn’t see the scar, you’d never know anything happened.”

“She has full use of everything. If you didn’t see the scar, you’d never know anything happened.” —Chelsea Lollis, Olivia’s mother

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“The cartilage in her joints had just melted away in a matter of a couple years. She couldn’t walk, let alone run. And yet, she was so positive.”

Because the cartilage was gone, Nowell’s only option was surgery.

“We’d replace one knee and then as soon as she recovered from it, we’d move on to the next,” Dr. Bowton says. In total, the surgeon has replaced both of Nowell’s knees, both shoulders and both hips.

After the surgeries, Nowell says the diff erence in her joints is “night and day.” She can walk and perform daily tasks. Soccer is still off the table, but she’s found new interests—including painting remote control cars and cooking—and new love with fi ance Jeremy Patterson.

She also continues to be positive.“My disease has been one of the

biggest blessings in my life,” Nowell says. “I’m more proud of who I am today than who I would have been without my disease. I’ve really

HAVE PAIN IN YOUR BONES, JOINTS OR SOFT TISSUES?

Ask your doctor for a referral to an orthopedic surgeon at Providence Orthopedics. Call 509-838-7100 or visit washington.providence.org/clinics/providence-orthopedics to learn more.

Jamara Nowell’s KneesShe was a typical soccer-loving 19-year-old when unexplained knee pain sent Jamara Nowell to the doctor. She was living on a military base in Montana at the time, and the doctor there couldn’t determine why she was experiencing pain. Then other peculiar symptoms appeared.

“I woke up with achy wrists, and my knee started to swell,” Nowell says. “I noticed a rash on the inside of my left knee, and I would have a fever every night at 7 p.m.”

Several weeks of testing fi nally revealed Nowell had adult Still’s disease, a rare type of infl ammatory arthritis that attacks the joints.

Nowell was bedridden in steady, signifi cant pain. After about six months, Nowell returned home to Spokane. She began seeing Providence Medical Group ortho-pedic surgeon Eric Bowton, M.D.

“Jamara came to me at 21 years old with a cane,” Dr. Bowton says.

gotten to fi nd out who I am outside of sports.”

Nowell and Dr. Bowton have become close in the last eight years. It’s a relationship Nowell is hesitant to give up.

“Jeremy and I have been talking about moving, but Dr. Bowton and my other physicians are keeping us here,” she says. “He’s just so genuinely kind. He’ll be getting a wedding invitation, for sure.”

Since having her knees, hips and shoulders replaced, Jamara Nowell has found new interests, including remote control cars.

HAVE PAIN IN YOUR BONES, JOINTS OR SOFT TISSUES?

Ask your doctor for a referral or contact Providence Orthopedics, Providence Medical Group. Call 509-838-7100 or visit washington.providence.org/clinics/providence-orthopedics to learn more.

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26 HEART BEAT FALL 2016

COMMUNITY

“When this fi rst started three years ago, it really was

a leap of faith,” says Judy Benson, M.D., director of medical education for Providence Health Care and for a community consortium known as the Spokane Teaching Health Center. “A group of enthusiastic people looked at the health care needs of our community and said, ‘We need to do this for Spokane.’�”

The result of that leap—the Spokane Teaching Health Clinic—opened on the Washington State University Spokane campus on Aug. 1. From concept to care, the

new clinic is a model of collabora-tion at its very best.

COLLABORATING TO EXPAND CAREThe need was clear: Spokane had a looming shortage of primary care physicians in the community.

Although the local universities were bringing more medical students to the area, there weren’t enough residency positions available to train them all after they graduated.

After graduating from medical school, physicians are required to complete a minimum three-year

residency-training program in their specialty before they go into practice. Well over half of the primary care physicians who complete residencies in Spokane choose to stay and practice here. Dr. Benson, a graduate of Providence’s Internal Medicine Residency Spokane, is a case in point. Expanding residency positions would be crucial to retaining more physicians in eastern Washington.

Federal funding limits had restricted the size of the area’s residency programs for years. But in 2013, grant funding became available through the Health Resources and Services Administration. There was just one hitch: The funds couldn’t fl ow to a hospital or university.

That’s where the enthusiastic leap came in.

Unifi ed in their commitment to the community’s health, Empire Health Foundation, Providence Health Care and Washington State University quickly formed a con-sortium. Operating together as the Spokane Teaching Health Center, the group drafted a plan for a new teaching clinic, applied for the grant and landed it. “It was amazing how quickly everybody came together to make this happen,” Dr. Benson says. “And look where we are now.”

Since 2013, 25 positions have been added for resident physicians in eastern Washington. Today, more than 70 residents in multiple disci-plines see patients in the Spokane Teaching Health Clinic.

“Everybody brought an important piece to the table,” Dr. Benson says.

WSU provided the clinic site on its Spokane campus and arranged

Collaboration at Its BestNew Spokane Teaching Health Clinic meets vital community needs.

From left: Residents Serkan Sahin, M.D., internal medicine; Hela Kelsch, D.O., family medicine; and Christine Prato, M.D., psychiatry; demonstrate the wide-ranging capabilities of the Spokane Teaching Health Clinic.

DO

YLE

WH

EE

LER

(2

)

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bond funding for the building. Its advanced registered nurse practitioner students, pharmacy students and incoming (2017) med-ical students will receive training alongside the residents, as well as health sciences students from Eastern Washington University.

Empire Health Foundation committed personnel to put the consortium together and fi nancial backing to secure it.

Providence brought decades of experience in training residents and running clinics, as well as substantial fi nancial support, and will continue to manage the new clinic.

COLLABORATING TO IMPROVE CAREThe collaborative spirit that made the clinic possible continues inside its doors, where residents and stu-dents in multiple disciplines work side by side, under the supervision of board-certifi ed faculty members, to optimize care for patients. It’s a forward-thinking departure from the traditional model, where residents train mainly with other residents in their own specialty. “This is the way health care is going to be done in the

“Everybody comes together to focus on our patients.”

That passion for helping patients was something Hela Kelsch, D.O., a third-year family medicine resident from Spokane, kept at the forefront as she provided input into the building’s design. “We thought about what would help our patients the most, and it resulted in a clinic that will attract new physicians to the community and allow us to provide more care for more people.”

Adds Dr. Sahin, “It’s incredibly exciting. It really feels like progress—like we’re doing something new and better, and taking steps forward toward positive change.”

Spokane Teaching Health Clinic624 E. Front St., Spokane

spokane.wsu.edu/sthc

Family medicine

Internal medicine

Psychiatric care

Physical and occupational therapy

Care managers

Social work services

Infectious Disease Clinic of Spokane

Pharmacy students

Lab and X-ray

Infusion center

Nursing students

Insurance assistance through

Better Health Together

Legal assistance through the

Center for Justice

MAKE AN APPOINTMENTIf you need to see a provider, please call 509-626-9900 for an appointment. All patients are welcome.

future,” Dr. Benson says, “and we want our residents to lead the way in this new collaborative model.”

Third-year internal medicine resident Serkan Sahin, M.D., is one of many residents who participated in planning sessions for the clinic. “Our goal was to create a patient-centered medical home, where patients can come and get all of their needs taken care of in one place,” he says. A person with back pain, for example, might come in to see a primary care physician for an exam, learn exercises from a physical therapist, get recommendations for relieving depression from a resident psychiatrist, and review medications with a pharmacist on the way out.

Integrated behavioral health is a particularly leading-edge aspect of the new clinic, says Christine Prato, M.D., a second-year psychi-atry resident. Psychiatric care is a big health care shortage in the area: Nearly 11 percent of Spokane adults report poor mental health. “In this clinic, psychiatrists consult with patients’ primary care providers and case managers, making mental health care more accessible to more people,” Dr. Prato says.

By Ellisa Valo

At the Spokane Teaching Health Clinic, residents and students in multiple disciplines work side by side to provide patient-centered care.

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FOUNDATION

28 HEART BEAT FALL 2016

GA

RY

MA

TO

SO

If you’ve ever made a purchase from the Providence Sacred Heart Gift Shop, you’re doing more than brightening the day

of an ailing friend or family member. You are also making a philanthropic gift to Providence Health Care Foundation. Whether it’s a bouquet for a new mom, a get-well card for Grandpa or a one-of-a-kind Christmas ornament you couldn’t resist, your purchase is contributing to the Providence Mission of help-ing those in need.

Last year, thanks to “retail therapy,” the gift shop donation came to nearly $236,000—a new record. This brings the cumulative total since 2001 to an impressive $2.1 million. Monies have supported the recently remodeled Cardiac Intensive Care Unit, a new down-town Spokane medical clinic for the homeless and the construction of Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital.

“The gift shop has been a self-sustaining business within the hospital for 52 years,” says Maureen Goins, director of volunteer services. After expenses are paid, all remaining funds are donated to the foundation to be used for vital programs, projects and equipment, she explains.

Because it doesn’t advertise, the gift shop is something of an undiscovered gem on the Spokane retail scene. It fills a unique niche, offering decorative household items and apparel not found in chain

stores. “Our buyer goes to the large gift shows in Atlanta and Las Vegas to find the perfect items for our customers,” says gift shop manager Jennifer Guier. “We continually bring in new lines that appeal to a wide variety of shoppers.”

The gift shop staff is supported by volunteers, who “work hard every day to help us be profitable for the foundation and live the Mission of Providence,” Guier

Gift Shop Gives Big$2.1 million donated to PHC Foundation since 2001.

says. “Our staff and volunteers understand how important it is that we deliver a personal and memorable shopping experience for our customers. They are proud of our ability to support Providence Health Care Foundation and share this message with our customers.”

They also love hearing about a surprised gift recipient who exclaims, “You got that where?”

BRIGHTEN SOMEONE’S DAYSend flowers or a gift to a loved one! Visit phc.org and type “gift shop” in the search bar, call 509-474-3285 or visit the gift shop just off the main lobby of Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center.

Sales generated by the gift shop help Providence Health Care Foundation fund programs, projects and equipment at the hospital.

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M.D. SPOTLIGHT

What was your path to Providence?I completed dual training in abdom-inal organ transplantation and in hepatobiliary (liver, gallbladder, bile duct) and pancreatic surgery in July 2013. At that time, Providence just happened to be looking for someone who could help develop a new liver and pancreas program and also help with transplant surgeries. It was a unique opportunity to do both.

What conditions do you help people with?About 60 percent of my patients have cancer of the pancreas, liver or biliary system (the gallbladder and bile ducts). One of the most common cancers we treat is colon cancer that has spread to the liver. And, as a high-volume cancer cen-ter, we are a regional referral center for many less-common cancers. To optimize care, we created a liver and pancreas tumor board, where experts in all types of treatment meet to discuss cases.

JUAN MEJIA, M.D., hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgeon, Providence Liver and Pancreas Surgery Center

A Surgeon’s ToolsWhy a listening ear is just as important as a steady hand with liver and pancreas conditions.

What are the recent advances in your fi eld?The biggest advancement has been robotic surgery. The da Vinci robot off ers a better fi eld of vision and more natural use of the hands than laparoscopic surgery (a traditional minimally invasive technique), so it allows us to do more operations through tiny incisions.

How do you put patients at ease?Some patients don’t want any details, and others want to know everything. The main thing, especially with new patients, is to set aside an hour or more and just hear where they are and give them as much information as they want.

What is most gratifying in your work?For many patients, surgery might be the only possibility of a cure. To off er them hope, treatment options and a plan that fi ts with what’s important to them is very rewarding.

NEED TO SEE A SPECIALIST?Visit washington.providence.org/clinics/liver-and-pancreas for more information. Ask your primary care provider for a referral, or call Providence Liver and Pancreas Clinic at 509-252-1711.

“The main thing, especially with new patients, is to set aside an hour or more and just hear where they are and give them as much information as they want.”

What do you enjoy about Spokane?Professionally, I’ve been amazed at the health care resources and expertise that we have locally. Every now and then we see patients who feel they should go to a bigger city, but there’s a lot of care that can be provided here, closer to home. Personally, I’m enjoying hiking in the summers and learning how to ski in the winters. In Panama, where I’m from originally, I enjoyed scuba diving, but here, the lakes are a little cold for that.

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HEALTHY BABY, HEALTHY CHILD CLASSES

Number of babies born at four Providence hospitals in Spokane and Stevens counties in 2015.

Whether you are an expecting mom, a new parent or a

child care provider, we are here for you.

Maternity tours.

Childbirth classes. Held at Providence Medical Park,

Sacred Heart Medical Center, Holy Family Hospital and

Mount Carmel Hospital.

Breastfeeding support.

Infant/child CPR and fi rst aid.

For a schedule of upcoming classes or to take a tour of the

maternity unit, call 509-474-2400 or visit phc.org. At the site,

hover over “Health Resources” and click “Calendar of Events.”

30 HEART BEAT FALL 2016

COMMUNITY WELLNESS CLASSESVisit courseregistration.inhs.org for dates, times and locations for all upcoming classes.

A1C TEST AND PREDIABETES SCREENINGA1c is a blood test that provides information about your average levels of blood glucose (blood sugar) over the past three months. Immediate results are provided and discussed with the health educator performing the test.

LIVING WELL WITH DIABETESThis free, six-week program will help you take control of your dia-betes. Family members or support people are encouraged to attend.

QUIT TOBACCO FOR GOODLet us help you kick the tobacco habit for good. This free four-week program is available over live, interactive webinars.

GROUP LIFESTYLE BALANCE PROGRAM This supportive, weight-loss program helps you make lasting changes to reach your healthy life-style goals. Off ered in person or through live, interactive webinar, this class is a CDC-recognized diabetes prevention program.

UPCOMING EVENTSCHEF’S CULINARY CLASSICOne of Spokane’s most exclusive and premier dining events benefi ts Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital.Saturday, January 28 Historic Davenport Hotelcmnspokane.org

Classes, Events and ActivitiesFall 2016

CALENDAR

SEE MORE EVENTSCheck out the full calendar of events at phc.org/heartbeat. Hover over “Health Resources,” then choose “Calendar of Events.”

KIDS AT HEART CHARITY LUNCHDon’t miss the “funnest” lunch of the year, benefi ting Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital.Tuesday, February 28Spokane Convention Centerkidsatheartcharitylunch.org

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READ ON YOUR TABLET OR PHONE: PHC.ORG/HEARTBEAT 31

If all you know about stretching is what you learned in fourth-grade gym class, it’s time for a refresher. Start by righting

these wrong moves.

MISTAKE 1: Not Doing ItStretching is important for maintaining or improving flexibility and range of motion, and for preventing injury. Unfortunately, it’s probably also the one part of your workout to be left out when you’re short on time, if it was even part of your workout to begin with. You can improve flexibility at any age, and it’s important for people young and old. Make stretching non-negotiable, just like your time on the treadmill or at the gym.

MISTAKE 2: Stretching FirstStretching is not the same as warming up. In fact, stretching cold muscles can injure them. Instead, always warm up for five to 10 minutes first, so muscles are pliable. And focus your efforts on the body parts you plan to stretch. For instance, 10 minutes of walking briskly or pedaling a stationary bike can get you ready to stretch your lower body. Exercises like arm circles and pushups can prepare your upper body. Evidence shows a proper warmup

Flex Your KnowledgeHow to fix five common stretching mistakes.

before and stretching after exercise can have positive effects on preventing injury and also may help decrease muscle soreness.

MISTAKE 3: BouncingBallistic (bouncing) stretches might have been big in your PE days. But this type of movement can lead to muscle and tendon tears in the average adult. Preferably, ease into a static stretch—after you’ve warmed up, of course—and hold it for at least 15 seconds without bouncing. Consider dynamic stretching that uses controlled movements in your sport or activity, like walking knee lifts, arm swings or heel-to-toe walking.

MISTAKE 4: Holding Your BreathWhen you do this, you’re tightening your muscles and robbing them of the benefits of flexibility exercises. You might not be aware it’s happen-ing, so be mindful of your breathing throughout your stretching routine.

HEALTH TIP

MISTAKE 5: Using Bad FormStretching is most effective when you do it correctly. If you expect to feel a stretch in one area but feel it somewhere else, your form could be off. Also, watch for pain. You might have mild discomfort or tightness during a stretch, especially in areas you don’t train very often, but you should stop if it hurts. Consult a certified physical trainer to learn proper techniques.

Janelle Hanni is a physical therapist at St. Luke’s Outpatient Therapy specializing in treatment of both surgical and nonsurgical orthopedic conditions. For more tips like these, visit st-lukes.org/therapy-tips.

By Janelle Hanni, PT, DPT

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NON-PROFIT ORG

US POSTAGE

PA I DHEART BEAT

Our Mission is to reveal God’s love for all, especially the poor and vulnerable, through our compassionate service. Our values are respect, compassion, justice, excellence and stewardship.

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Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center & Children’s Hospital101 W 8th AveSpokane, WA 99204

ROLE MODEL

RN on the RunDirector of Emergency Services Adam Richards, RN, BSN, MBA, loves the fast pace of

emergency medicine. In his role at Providence Sacred Heart

Medical Center and Providence Holy Family Hospital, he

spends his days running between two hospitals, three

emergency departments and a trauma program.

After hours, he continues the pace as a volunteer at local

runs and events. “I enjoy bringing nursing into the commu-

nity and making sure people have help if they need it,” he says.

It’s a good thing. In May, Richards and other Providence

volunteers were staffing a first-aid tent at the Bloomsday

finish line when a 22-year-old runner collapsed and went

into cardiac arrest. The crew rushed to his aid and, teaming

up with a Spokane Fire Department paramedic, was able to

resuscitate the man and save his life.

“That’s why we do this,” Richards says. “Mostly, it’s about

being present in the community. And sometimes, you’re in

the right place at the right time to make a very meaningful

impact on a person’s life.”

Adam Richards and others were at the right place at the right time to save a Bloomsday runner’s life.

YOU CAN HELP

Become confident in your lifesaving skills! Sign up for a CPR class. Visit courseregistration.inhs.org and type “CPR” in the search box.

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