April 6, 2012 MEDICAL UNIVERSITY of SOUTH CAROLINA Vol. 30, No. 32

8

3Patient ServiceS

recognized

Eleven MUSCprograms

ranked in thetop 100 spots ofAmerica’s best

graduate schools.

2

11

5

NationalHealthcare AccessPersonnel Week

observedApril 1 - 7.

Campus News

Meet Donna

Classifieds

InsIde

the catalyStonline

http://www.musc.edu/

catalyst

U.S. newS &world rePort

Mobile revolUtionMobile revolUtion

Dr. Frank Treiber showsoff the MedMinder, awireless , computerizedmedication dispenser.

Frank Treiber, Ph.D., is used to catching thelatest wave, whether it’s in the Atlantic Ocean

or in the use of mobile technology that he sees as agame changer in shaping the delivery of health care.

Treiber, formerly vice president for researchdevelopment at Georgia Health Sciences University,came to MUSC in 2010 as a SmartState endowedchair in technology applications to prevent andmanage disease. He leads the Technology Centerto Enhance Healthful Lifestyles that is chargedwith developing and commercializing software andtechnological products to improve the delivery of

health care.The field of mobile technology sort of chose

him rather than the other way around, he said. Hisresearch career previously had focused on 24-hourtelemonitoring devices that tracked patients’ vitalsigns, such as blood pressure and heart rate, in theirnatural environment.

“As I saw technology developing, we startedmorphing into smartphones and into themanagement of diseases and prevention work.MUSC had the foresight along with USC todevelop a center of economic excellence involving

Given the choice among an American, Spanish orBritish accent on their cellphones, the majority

of people pick British. The reason Frank Treiber,Ph.D., knows this bit of trivia is because he leads agroup dedicated to taking the latest in mobile healthcare technology and translating it into evidence-basedresearch projects that capitalize on the strengths oftechnology to connect health providers and patients.

q Innovative meditation app called Tension Tamer, Page 6.Watch the video at http://tinyurl.com/6vd4fv6.

q SMASH study to combat high blood pressure, Page 6.Watch the video, http://tinyurl.com/6m6dpp9.

See Mobile on page 9

see How It’s BeIng Used

2 tHe Catalyst, April 6, 2012

Around CAMpuseventsPeoPle

Robert G. GellinRobert G. Gellin,DMD, professorand Departmentof Stomatologychair and Divisionof Periodonticsdirector, was electedsecretary to theConsortium for

Oral Health Research and Informatics(COHRI) board of directors. COHRIis a dental informatics consortium ofU.S. dental schools interested in usinga comprehensive clinic managementsoftware to manage electronic healthinformation and share data to facilitateclinical research. Gellin’s position willprepare him for the role of chair by 2014.

Jean NappiJean Nappi,PharmD, professor,College of Pharmacy,has been namedby the AmericanAssociation ofCollege of Pharmacyto receive theRobert C. ChalmersDistinguished

Pharmacy Educator Award. The awardis given to one of approximately 5,000pharmacy faculty members in the U.S.each year.

Rick SchnellmannRick Schnellmann,Ph.D., chair of theDepartment ofPharmaceutical andBiomedical Sciencesin the S.C. Collegeof Pharmacy,was named

Distinguished University Professor bythe MUSC board of trustees. The titleDistinguished University Professor is thehighest academic distinction granted bythe board of trustees. Only 36 have beennamed in MUSC’s history.

SCTR Scientific RetreatThe South Carolina Clinical andTranslational Research Institutewill be hosting the Mobile HealthTechnologies 2012 Spring ScientificRetreat from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 26in Room 110, Bioengineering Building.Visit http://sctr.musc.edu or call 792-1498.

Gourmet & GrapesThe annual Gourmet & Grapes cuisineand wine event will be held May 4 - 6at The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island GolfResort. The fundraiser will benefitHollings Cancer Center. Visit http://www.gourmetandgrapes.com.

The Catalyst is published once a week.Paid adver tisements, which do notrepresent an endorsement by MUSCor the State of South Carolina, arehandled by Island Publications Inc. ,Moultrie News, 134 Columbus St. ,Charleston, S.C., 843-849-1778 or843-958-7490. E-mail: sales@moultrienews.com.

Editorial of ficeMUSC Office of Public Relations135 Cannon Street, Suite 403C,Charleston, SC 29425.843-792-4107Fax: 843-792-6723

Editor: Kim Draughncatalyst@musc.edu

Catalyst staff:Cindy Abole, aboleca@musc.eduDawn Brazell, brazell@musc.edu

STICU nurse Ashley Jacobs shares a piece of cake with Dr. Ralph Barkeras part of her unit’s celebration of National Doctors’ Day, March 30. Thestaff prepared a buffet to honor its attending physicians and residents.

tHe Catalyst, April 6, 2012 3

Latisha Moultrie, a registrar at Ashley RiverTower, explains the consent form to a patientusing the E-Signature iPad.

MUSC will join hospitals throughout the country inrecognition of National Healthcare Access PersonnelWeek, April 1 - 7.

Dan O'Donnell, new director of Patient AccessService (PAS), said the patient access staff has a greatopportunity of setting the tone for a positive patientexperience. “During the past several weeks, I’ve had theprivilege of observing several instances of Patient Accessstaff demonstrating ‘service excellence.’ We only haveone opportunity to make a good first impression. Whenit comes to service excellence, there is no finish line.”

In an average day, the department handles requestsfrom physicians, nurses and patients. Physicians callto schedule patients for admission and nurses informthe PAS staff of any patient transfers. The staff isresponsible for admitting patients, inpatient andoutpatient services, surgery, radiology, sleep studies, labsand emergency services.

Donna Rosado, Emergency Room Access staffmember, said it’s rewarding working in the EmergencyDepartment. “To have patients trust in me and tobecome part of their experience, whether good orbad, from beginning to end, is success in my book. Ithas widened my knowledge of various personalities,

hardships and emotions that has made me a betterperson.”

The staff must be knowledgeable of the manycomponents that impact the registration processincluding governmental regulations and guidelines and

the requirements of the various insurance companies.During the access process, patients sometimes are

feeling apprehensive and need support. Rutledge Toweraccess services staff member Eileen Brown said one ofher favorite parts of her job is the interesting peopleshe meets. “I've laughed, cried and even rejoiced withthem in their recovery. If you don't like what you do,you will not be good at what you do. Our main priorityis to balance efficiency with large doses of caring andconcern.”

Another staff member, Herbert Love, agrees thatthe job is very rewarding. “I am very proud to workin PAS, we have the first opportunity to make thepatients feel pleasant and ensure that they have madethe right choice by choosing MUSC. It truly makesmy day knowing that I have made my patient feel verycomfortable while they are here.”

Ashley River Tower PAS staff member PatriciaWashington welcomes and registers patients forgastrointestinal and cardiology services. Her motto is“be the smile that you want to see. Always remember totreat everyone you come in contact with as you wouldlike to be treated; with dignity and respect.”

As we celebrate National Healthcare Access Personnelweek, we also recognize the tremendous contributionthe staff makes toward the achievement of the visionand mission of MUSC.

Patient services strive to make good first impressionBy Beverly gaIllard and Pensola Hazel

Patient Access Services

4 tHe Catalyst, April 6, 2012

Currents April 3People–Fostering employeepride and loyaltyEmployee of the MonthAnabel Sanchez,

Elena Rivera and HazelWashington, Release ofInformation Birth Clerks/Paternity Team, were recognized for theirimprovement efforts. Working with theneeds of the patients, they were able toachieve a No. 2 state rating by DHEC.(Elise Graham)

HR updateHelena Bastian, MUHA HR director,

presented the following:q New Employee Commitment Survey– Survey dates: April 16 to April 27;Leader and Ambassador OrientationProgram – Sign up via CATTS andtraining scheduled throughout April 5.q Administrative support orientation –HR has announced that AdministrativeSupport Orientation documents arenow available via the intranet: http://mcintranet.musc.edu/hr/training/UnitDepartmentOrientationForms. Thedocuments are intended for employeeswho are new to a role of administrativesupport for a manager, director oradministrator. For information, contactKim Duncan, 792-1962, or KarenRankine, 792-7690.q HR is now accepting faxed or scannedcopies of W-4 forms in addition tooriginal copies.q 2012 Hospital Week Kickoff Event –11 a.m. to 1 p.m., May 3; Event featuresa fun department or unit competition.Top three departments with the highestparticipation rate at the end of the eventwill win a pizza party. Participants cancheck in at the registration table andparticipate in any of the event games –obstacle course, field noodle hockey, tug-of-war, hula hoop race and much more.q MUSC Family Night at theCharleston RiverDogs – 5:05 p.m. game,May 6 (Tickets are $5 each); Ticketsales: April 5 and April 6, 10 a.m. to 2p.m., Children’s Hospital lobby; April23, 24 and April 30, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.,university hospital (near Starbucks);Ashley River Tower location date and

time to be announced.

Finance – Providing thehighest value to patients whileensuring financial stability

Patty Burn, HospitalPayroll manager, shared awin for the hospital. Forthe last six months, about6,570 MUHA employeeswho are paid bi-weeklyachieved 100 percent direct deposit oruse of direct pay card. Burn recognizedMUHA HR with their orientationefforts, hospital managers and Payrollstaff Diana White, Kay Passailaigue andSusan Black for helping to achieve thisgoal.

Quality – Providing qualitypatient care in a safeenvironment

Susan Johnson, Ph.D.,Employee WellnessProgram coordinator,unveiled the new MUSCMoves! Fitness Campaign as an initiativeto transform MUSC into a physicallyactive workplace. Organizers will beconducting a campuswide fitness survey,outfit department and hospital areabreak rooms with equipment to be amini gym for staff; promote indoor andoutdoor walking trails and other fitnessevents. For information, visit http://mcintranet.musc.edu/health1st/events.htm.q The MUSC Urban Farm – Spring:pilot growing season; Summer: Pavilionconstruction; September: official launchevent; Fall: full program implementation;also planned: work and learns, farmcommittees, etc.

Service – Serving the publicwith compassion, respect andexcellence

Heather Woolwine,Office of Public RelationsMedia Relations director,reviewed informationand protocol associated

To Medical Center Employees:On Saturday, March 24 at approximately 6 p.m. we

unfortunately experienced a fire and smoke on the MUH8th floor Center in a storage area. The fire was confinedto mattresses and sheets. The City of Charleston FireMarshall is conducting an investigation and to date nofindings have been released.

The 8th floor Center was affected by smoke and water,the 9th floor was affected by smoke, 6 Center and 7 (PTand call rooms) were affected by water. Elevator D hadsignificant water damage.

Nancy Tassin, R.N., Musculoskeletal ServiceLine administrator, served as the communicationscoordinator. Ms. Tassin reported that the response and teamwork by everyoneinvolved was exceptional. Nursing and support staff followed the fire procedurefor quick and safe relocation of 35 patients. The City Fire Departmentresponded rapidly to the alarm and in an outstanding fashion. Internally,the response teams included: Facilities Management, Security, EmergencyManagement/Clinical Disaster Control, Risk Management, EnvironmentalServices, Public Safety, Central Supply, Biomedical Engineering, Admit/Transfer Center (Bed Management), Disaster Control (contracted service),Public Relations, Hospital Supervisors and others. The affected floors werecleaned up in relatively short order and patients were returned to theirrespective rooms by 8 a.m. Sunday morning or sooner.

Elevator D is currently out of service. We have asked our elevator vendor toaccelerate repairs by any means practical, but we anticipate it will take up to sixweeks to complete. Temporary signage has been placed throughout the hospitalto re-route patients and visitors to the most suitable elevators. For years ourbehavioral standards have been to “help lost guests find their way.” At thistime we need to be particularly focused on helping patients and visitors to theelevators most suited for their destinations.

I commend everyone for your dedicated service. While the overall responsewas exceptional, there are always learning opportunities from events. Wewill use our findings from an analysis of the event to make continuedimprovements.

W. Stuart SmithVice President for Clinical Operationsand Executive Director, MUSC Medical Center

Smith

See Currents on page 10

with MUSC’s patient condition reportprocedures.

Woolwine reminded managers that theguidelines are in place to protect patientsand families related to media inquiriesabout a patient’s condition. Release ofinformation without written consent isa violation of HIPAA. In the process, aPR representative will locate the patient’slocation and call the correspondingunit to verify the patient’s current statusof good, fair, serious or critical. Noadditional information beyond thesewords is needed or will be requestedby Public Relations. For information,contact Woolwine, 792-7669.

SANE programDeb Browning, R.N., Sexual Assault

Nurse Examiners (SANE) programdirector, reminded managers that April isNational Sexual Assault and PreventionAwareness month. According to research,sexual assault occurs in 1:6 womenand 1:33 men. Sexual assault is underreported both in S.C. and nationally.Browning helped establish MUSC’sSANE team in 2010, which provides24/7 service to the MUSC ED forsurvivors of sexual assault.

The team includes Kathy Gill-Hopple,Ph.D., R.N., program coordinator;

CM

02-724378

tHe Catalyst, April 6, 2012 5

Meet donnA

DepartmentDiagnostic Microbiology & LaboratoryServicesHow long at MUSCAlmost 9 yearsHow are you changing what’s possibleat MUSCI come to work ready to learn new ways inproviding excellent care for patients.Favorite musicGospelFavorite sportSoftballHometownSpring Hope, N.C.Something people don’t know aboutmeI hate sarcasm but I tolerate sarcastic people.Favorite holidayEasterFavorite Easter memoryReciting an Easter poem at church when Iwas 4 years old. I still remember it.

Donna Jean Oden

CM

02-724378

6 tHe Catalyst, April 6, 2012

When the callwent out to

teachers at JerryZucker MiddleSchool of Scienceabout a “tensiontamer” study forteachers who mightqualify, Jack Sandersthought he wouldgive it a try.

As an 8th graderesource teacherand tennis coach,Sanders experiencesmany times wherehe could use sometension taming bythe end of the day.To qualify for thestudy, though, a person had to be pre-hypertensive. Sanders figured he wouldn’tmake it through the screening since he’syoung, slim and good about doing what hecan to stay in shape.

Volunteering to be screened, he wasshocked to find out that he did qualify forMUSC’s Tension Tamer proof of conceptstudy. He and two other teachers took partin the study.

Participants were asked to do somethingSanders, 27, didn’t know much about –breathing awareness meditation. Sanderssaid he liked the technological approachof the study in that he would be usinga smartphone with a Tension Tamerapp. The app tracks heart rate throughphotoplethysmography using the cameralens on the phone to get a pulse from aperson’s finger while the participant doesan audio-delivered breathing meditation.

Sanders’ favorite part, though, was howthe app transmitted time-stamped heartrates from the session back to the serversfor real-time analysis. He loved the directphysiological feedback that showed himthat something as simple as breathingexercises could have such a dramaticimpact on his heart rate and tensionlevel. The app also included inspirational,coaching texts to encourage participants tobe compliant in practicing.

An auditory kinesthetic learner, the

approach was idealfor him. “A bookwouldn’t haveworked as well, if atall. That hands’ onexperience whereyou can have it ismuch better for methan a book.”

Sanders saidit has been lifechanging for him.Instead of the 15minutes he wassupposed to spenddoing the app,he found himselfdoing it for 20 or30 minutes.

“I had done nomeditation before so it was an all newexperience. I was very skeptical at thebeginning because I thought how is atelephone going to monitor my bloodpressure and tell me I’m ‘relaxing.’ This isjust nuts. It doesn’t make sense.”

But work it did.It opened his eyes to the dangers of

high blood pressure, a condition he didn’tthink applied to him. “That was myattitude. When I started going throughthis, I realized I may be young, but it canhappen at any age. You have to be readyfor it.”

The best part is that Sanders now isinto the habit of using the breathingmeditation whenever he needs it. Heespecially likes doing it when he getshome to disconnect from the day. Nowthat he knows how to do the breathingmeditation, he doesn’t need the app.Instead, he did his own research andfound an app with soothing ambientnoise.

“I was able to take what I learned, applyit and even grow with it. I typically wouldhave a stressful day and go home and stewon my stress, which adds more frustrationto my next day and I don’t sleep well atnight.

“Now I realize I have to take time todisconnect. If I don’t do that disconnect,my day never ends.”

Mobile technology rewires health care delivery

With his father on dialysis, andhis mother recently having a

kidney transplant at MUSC, JuanAguayo knows the risks he faces. The25-year-old has high blood pressurealready.

Aguayo admits he has beenfrustrated staying on his medications,knowing that will help him avoidending up with heart and kidneyproblems. It’s one of the reasons hevolunteered for a mobile technologystudy targeted to help hypertensivepatients be more compliant.

It’s a common problem. TheWorld Health Organization reportsthat only about 50 percent of peopletypically follow their doctors’ orderswhen it comes to taking prescriptiondrugs. That rate can be higherwith chronic conditions, such ashypertension, known as a silentkiller because many patients have nosymptoms.

Brenda M. Brunner-Jackson,program manager, wraps a bloodpressure cuff around his arm at acheckup at the Franklin C. FetterFamily Health Center on John’sIsland. She helps track and counselpatients enrolled in SMASH orSmartphone Medication AdherenceStops Hypertension.

“So have you been taking yourmedications?” she asks.

She really doesn’t have to since shehas readouts from his MedMinder, acomputerized, medication dispenser,and his Bluetooth-enabled bloodpressure monitor that he uses.

This time, though, Aguayo smiles,happy to discuss it. “It makes it easierto take. I open the right one and theflashing light will stop. It helps a lot,”he said. “Now it’s stuck to me. Nowit’s a habit of doing it already.”

Aguayo knows if he doesn’trespond to the light, a beeping willstart, and then he’ll get a call froma medical professional “coach” whohelps him troubleshoot problems. It’sstrong incentive to take the medicineon time. Aguayo said he actually gotto the point he was standing over theMedMinder before the light startedflashing. With the study ending,Brunner-Jackson set Aguayo up witha timer system on his cellphone so hecan continue to get reminders.

Aguayo hopes to spread the newsin his community about the dangersof high blood pressure. “If you canget help, get help. It can lead todialysis and kidney failure. It’s simpleto take control of it if you take thesteps to train yourself.”

His parents are proud of him.“They don’t want to see me go downthe same road. It’s a wake-up call forme.”

Brenda Brunner-Jackson, program manager in the College ofNursing, takes Juan Aguayo’s blood pressure.

caSe StUdy

Teacher Jack Sanders learns he lovesto meditate through a study usingmobile health technology.

caSe StUdy

The Catalyst, April 6, 2012 7

Expo promotesresearch visionsBeing the good sport that she is, Kelly Dillon reached

her hand into the bin to gently lift up the brain.Assisting in manning a booth at the SCresearch Expo

held April 3 in the MUSC Horseshoe, Dillon wrinklesher nose squeamishly. She explains the brain donationcoordinator, Nicholas Gregory, who usually displays thebrain, has taken a break.

A bystander stops to admire and exclaims, “Ohh, that’sthe real thing, isn’t it?”

Dillon nods, offering brochures about MUSC’s brainbank, the Carroll A. Campbell, Jr. NeuropathologyLaboratory, which is dedicated to being the link betweenclinicians, scientists and pathologists involved inneuroscience research.

That’s what the expo is all about – helping clinicians,researchers and the public make connections, increasingresearch participation statewide. More than 100 studieswere represented at the SCresearch Expo sponsored bythe South Carolina Clinical & Translational ResearchInstitute (SCTR).

The studies displayed represented a wide spectrum ofresearch including Alzheimer’s, diabetes, psychiatry andgenetics. The purpose of the event is to raise awareness ofthe many research opportunities on campus and encourageemployees and visitors to get involved.

Jenna Gillis, recruitment core leader for the institute,said she was pleased by the response. “I was optimisticleading up to the event, but what I didn’t anticipate wasthe magnitude of research volunteer response. Study teamafter study team reported interest in their research thatfar exceeded recruitment expectations. We have a greatcontingent of research supporters, and I’m so encouragedthat SCresearch Expo helped them find the right studyparticipation opportunities.”

Tara Novit-Thomas, Hollings Cancer Center ClinicalTrials Office, said this is the first year that the office hasparticipated.

“It was a wonderful experience. It was a greatopportunity for folks to learn about the research studiesgoing on campus wide for themselves or for their familyand friends. There’s a lot happening in research here atMUSC and this expo was an effective way to get the wordout about how we are ‘Changing What’s Possible,’” shesaid of MUSC’s brand campaign. “We look forward toparticipating next year.”

SCresearch.org is an online clinical research studiesdirectory designed by SCTR specifically to help volunteersfind studies in which to participate. SCresearch.orgcurrently hosts clinical trials from MUSC and SpartanburgRegional Healthcare System, but will be expanding toincluding other institutions in Health Sciences SouthCarolina.

Dr. Kristyn Zajac is doing a study aboutstress and parenting among teen mothers. Itis sponsored by the Department of Psychiatryand Behavioral Sciences. She is seekingmothers under the age of 20. Call 792-3354 formore information.

Hollings Cancer Center’s Clinical Trials Officewas a newcomer to the expo .

Kelly Dillon, program assistant inNeurosciences, educates expo participants aboutMUSC’s brain bank. For more information, visithttp://www.musc.edu/brainbank.

Participants could see the damages of smokingat this booth. The expo offers educationaldisplays on health and chances for employeesand the public to get blood pressure screenings.

8 tHe Catalyst, April 6, 2012

Eleven MUSC programs ranked in top 100 spotsfor the U.S. News Media Group’s 2013 edition ofAmerica's Best Graduate Schools, published online athttp://grad-schools.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/best-graduate-schools.

One of the 11 programs named, the MUSC pharmacygraduate program, ranked 26th, marking the school’scontinued appearance on the annual ranking list.

“This ranking gives us good recognition for theprogram and for all the accomplishments of our facultyand students,” said Joseph DiPiro, PharmD, executivedean for MUSC's pharmacy program.

MUSC’s College of Nursing remained a top 50nursing school, and both the MUSC College ofMedicine (COM) and the College of Health Professions(CHP) demonstrated strong program showings andgains during the previous year.

“Once again, several of our programs have receivednational recognition for their excellence,” said Etta D.Pisano, M.D., vice president for medical affairs andCOM dean. “We are honored to be ranked among thetop 60 schools for primary care, research and statistics,and are proud to be ranked in the top 10 for ourprogram in drug and alcohol abuse. These rankingsreflect the commitment to excellence and high qualityof our talented faculty, staff, trainees, and students.”

U.S. News & World Report has strong MUSC showing

As CHP Dean Lisa Saladin, Ph.D., predicted last year,the health care disciplines represented in her college areassuming an even more significant role in the provisionof health care as health care reform is implemented.She remains committed to maintaining the high qualitythat people have come to expect from CHP’s programswith the help of associate dean for student affairs KarenWager, DBA.

“We are extremely proud of our outstanding faculty,students and staff,” said Wager. “One hallmark of ouracademic programs is our focus on interprofessionaleducation. Students learn to work together ininterprofessional teams to provide coordinated, cost-effective and patient-centered care. These skills arecritically important in today's health environment.”

The following are all the MUSC programs andtheir 2013 rankings: Pharmacy (26th); Nursing (50th);Medicine — Drug and Alcohol Abuse (10th); Medicine— Primary Care (49th); Medicine — Research (57th);Medicine — Statistics (58th); Health Professions —Health Care Management (29th); Health Professions— Nursing Anesthesia (26th); Health Professions— Occupational Therapy (21st); Health Professions— Physical Therapy (51st); and Health Professions —Physician Assistant (25th).

Each year, U.S. News ranks professional-schoolprograms in business, education, engineering, lawand medicine. These rankings are based on two typesof data: expert opinions about program quality andstatistical indicators that measure the quality of aschool’s faculty, research and students. These datacome from surveys of more than 1,200 programs andsome 12,400 academics and professionals that wereconducted in fall 2010.

The indicators used in these rankings of business,education, engineering, law and medical schools fallinto two categories: inputs, or measures of the qualitiesthat students and faculty bring to the educationalexperience, and outputs, measures of graduates’achievements linked to their degrees. Different outputmeasures are available for different fields.

“This ranking gives us goodrecognition for the program andfor all the accomplishments ofour faculty and students.”

Dr. Joseph DiPiro

A member of the City of Charleston Police Department analyzes a Parrott shell that wasfound in the Horseshoe April 2. Educational Technology Services and Distance Education’sJohn Richardson found the shell while he was looking for electrical outlets for MUSC’scommencement. Explosive teams from the police department and the Air Force were called tothe area. The shell, which was used for the Parrott rifle during the Civil War, was removed byAir Force personnel.

a Piece of civil war hiStory

photo by Tim Roylance, Digital Imaging

tHe Catalyst, April 6, 2012 9

technology applications.”The options for mobile health care are limitless. This

is telemedicine, but it also is about enabling patientsto better monitor their health, he said. “We wanted toreach out to a lot of people and what we have foundthat one thing that a lot of people have irrespective oftheir socioeconomic status, their ethnic background is asmartphone or cellphone.”

A recent proof of concept study featured the appTension Tamer. Many chronic diseases are stress-activated or worsened by stress, such as high blood

pressure, cardiovascular disease andType II diabetes. Treiber said thebeauty of the Tension Tamer is that ittakes breathing awareness meditationthat is easy to learn and has beenshown to be effective in loweringblood pressure and puts it into anapp that patients can access easilyanywhere. (See story on page 6).

Researchers figured out how touse the smartphone camera to do pulse readingswhile a person is doing the meditation app so theycan get immediate physiologic feedback. Based onstudy results with school teachers, they found largereductions in resting and ambulatory blood pressuresin prehypertensive adults, he said. Participants alsoreported a reduction in stress and anxiety and betterability to sleep.

The long-term goal is to have an app available on theAndroid and Apple cellphone markets.

“It’ll be one of the 16,000 apps that are out therefor health care or wellness, but it will be one of thevery few that has been empirically validated — that hasbeen shown to be very feasible, usable and acceptableto those who are using it. The most important thing isthat they maintain it. They keep doing it. We had highadherence rates to this twice a day, 10-minute sessionsfor three months, in part, because of the feedbackthey’re getting.”

Another success story is the pilot study calledSMASH, Smartphone Medication Adherence Stops

Hypertension, which involved Hispanic adults withuncontrolled high blood pressure. (See story page 6.)

One of the biggest problems that health careproviders face is getting patients with chronic diseasesto take medications properly. Thirty to 50 percent ofpatients do not take their medications as prescribed.“It’s not just people who are elderly or on a largenumber of medications, either. It turns out thisproblem affects a wide range of ages and patients.”

With the SMASH study, patients were givenan electronic medication tray with individualizedcompartments for each day’s dosages. The patientreceives a series of alerts, including a bright flashinglight at first followed by a loud chime and an automatedphone call if the medication remains untaken. Thepatients also received a blood pressure monitor to taketheir pressures every three days. The readings are sentwirelessly to their smartphone and sent via internet to asecure computer. Their doctors receive summary reportsof their patients’ pressures every two weeks and alerts ifpressures are ever in a danger zone.

Initial results from the three-month trial are verypromising, he said. Patients who received the devicesexhibited a 95 to 100 percent adherence to theirmedication regimen. At the three-month evaluation,they showed a 17.9 mmHG reduction in their systolic

blood pressure across 24 hours compared to a less than1 mmHG change among the control patients. Theywent from hypertensive, with a systolic resting pressureof 154 to being normotensive at three months with areading of 127.5.

Additional patients now are participating. If thefindings hold up, the technology center will apply forfunding to test the SMASH program in a large sampleof uncontrolled hypertensive adults, he said.

What the studies are showing is mobile technology’sability to help people form and adhere to healthyhabits. It also allows health care providers to address theissue of clinical inertia — when there’s too much timelag in doctors getting information they need to monitora patient’s progress, such as being able to adjust amedication that still needs to be set at the right dosage.

“These mobile health technologies allow a doctorand a patient to be interconnected with each other24/7. The doctor can monitor very readily with thetechnology that we have multiple vital signals – heartrate, pulse oximetry, glucose, weight. They can have allthat processed and delivered to them.”

Another promising area involves usingteleconferencing on mobile devices to connect healthproviders and patients.These innovations mean thepossibility of better health care and more cost-effectivemonitoring.

“The health care team will be able to take care ofthem in the home environment without them gettingso bad that all of sudden they end up in the ER. Inthe long run, these kinds of devices will help in thedelivery of more efficacious and cost effective healthcare because we’ll keep people out of the ERs and thehospitals.”

Treiber, who is working on six ongoing projects,said he’s excited about finding ways to bring togetherthe intellectual capital on MUSC’s campus with theinnovations of mobile high-tech health care. He hasprojects with multiple collaborators in transplantsurgery, pediatrics, psychiatry, nursing and medicine.

“I saw the opportunity to come here and help bringthis along as a way to improve the prevention andtreatment of diseases that are ravaging the South andthe nation.”

The Tension Tamer app shown above teachesparticipants a breathing awareness meditationthat is thought to help lower blood pressure.The phone’s camera is used for pulse readings.

MoBIle Continued from Page One

Treiber

10 tHe Catalyst, April 6, 2012

eMployee Wellness

Healthat work

Susan Johnson

According to recentresearch, people whoexercise on work daysare more productive,happier and suffer lessstress than on non-gymdays.

In keeping with ourmission to improvehealth and maximizequality of life througheducation, research andpatient care, MUSCEmployee Wellnessseeks to implement an employee fitnessprogram with the goal of improvingphysical fitness among MUSCemployees, thereby increasing the healthand quality of life of our community.MUSC Moves is a physical activitycampaign designed to provide programsthat aim to address the challenges manyemployees face in being physically activeat work.

During the month of April, employeeswill have many opportunities to engagein physical activity and exercise as wellas learn about the benefits of physicalfitness:q MUSC Employee Fitness Series —A variety of classes are offered free ofcharge to encourage employees to try newworkouts, including circuit training at4:15 p.m. on April 18 (Wellness Center)and the fitness fair including ZumbaFeston April 25 in the Horseshoe.q Lunch and Learns — Desk workout:Exercise bands from 12:15 – 12:45 p.m.,April 11, 2W Classroom, universityhospitalq Desk workout — Yoga: 12:15 – 12:45p.m., April 18, Room 103, ColbertEducation Center & Library, Emailmusc-empwell@musc.edu to register.Participants will receive a free exerciseband.q Bike to Work Day – Ride your bike towork on April 12 to celebrate Earth Day.Stop by the table at Clyburn plaza from 6– 9 a.m. for water and fruit. Free showersat the Wellness Center (bring your owntowel).q Fitness Day — April 25 from 11 a.m. –1 p.m. at the Horseshoe. Employees will

have an opportunity to try a variety offitness activities including Zumba. Freeclasses and tours will be held all day atthe Wellness Center.

Employee Wellness eventsq MUSC’s Pitch the Pack Program:Free smoking cessation program offeredto MUSC employees and students.Classes, counseling and a one-monthsupply of medications are available toeligible participants. Receive a successkit filled with gifts at enrollment. Enrollat http://ceii.muschealth.com/SCP/SCPRegistration.aspx.q MUSC Garden Project: LunchtimeWork & Learn — Learn through workingwith the soil and seeds in the MUSCUrban Farm from noon – 1 p.m., April11. Email musc-empwell@musc.edu forinformation and to register.q MUSC Garden Project: AfternoonWork & Learn — Learn through workingwith soil and seeds while planting inthe MUSC Urban Farm from 4:30 – 6p.m., April 11. Open to all MUSCemployees, students and their families,email musc-empwell@musc.edu for moreinformation and to register for this event.q Earth Day: From 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.,April 12 in the Horseshoe. Highlightsinclude live music, local food, eco-craftsand plants for your garden, electricvehicles (see the Nissan Leaf), bikehelmets, bike registration and safetyinformation and experts on composting,collecting rain water, saving energy,reducing waste and green tips. Doorprizes include a home composter.q Mobile Mammograms: The HollingsCancer Center Mobile Van will beconducting mammograms from 9a.m. – 6 p.m., April 18 behind theClyburn Research Center off PresidentStreet. Call 792-0878 to schedule anappointment.q Farmers market: Fresh fruits andvegetables are available from localfarmers from 7 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. everyFriday in the Horseshoe and in the grassyarea next to Ashley River Tower behindCharleston Memorial Hospital.

Email johnsusa@musc.edu to becomeinvolved in employee wellness at MUSC.

Nancy Hall, R.N., staff educationcoordinator, Janet Ward, R.N.,community outreach coordinator andeight team nurses. Their mission isto assist victims of sexual violence byproviding an immediate, compassionateand comprehensive forensic evaluationand treatment. Since its establishment,the team have treated 98 patients (May toDecember 2010); 174 patients (2011) and30 (January to March). So far the teamhas assisted in two cases that went to

court trial with successful prosecutions.Throughout April, the group will beinvolved in events including Take Backthe Night, April 12; Sex Signals ImprovGroup and a 5K Awareness Run at theNaval Weapons Station.

AnnouncementMUHA’s Center for Clinical

Effectiveness & Patient Survey willconduct a Culture of Safety surveystarting April 12.

CUrrents Continued from Page Four

Nominations for clinician,faculty awards being accepted

Nominations for the OutstandingClinician Award and the DistinguishedFaculty Service Award are being acceptedby the Office of the Vice President forAcademic Affairs and Provost.

The Outstanding Clinician Awardhonors full-time faculty who have madecontributions to patient care at MUSC.

The Distinguished Faculty ServiceAward was enacted by the university

board of trustees to honor MUSC facultymembers who have provided exceptionalcontributions in teaching, research,health care or public service to theuniversity and South Carolinians.

The deadline is April 23 and should besubmitted to Mark S. Sothmann, Ph.D.,Vice President for Academic Affairs andProvost, 179 Ashley Avenue, ColcockHall, MSC 002, MUSC.

tHe Catalyst, April 6, 2012 11

Rental Properties

CLASSIFIED PCLASSIFIED PAGEAGE• Household Personal Items for

MUSC employees are free.All other classifieds are charged at rate below. Ads considered venture-making ads (puppy breeder, coffee business,

home for sale, etc.) will be charged as PAID ADS •• PROOF OF ELIGIBILITY REQUIRED* NO MORE THAN 3 LINES * FREE ADS RUN 2 WEEKS ONLY!

PAID ADS are $3 per line ( 1 line = 35 characters) DEADLINE: TUESDAY – 10:00 AM* CLASSIFIED ADS CAN BE E-MAILED TO sales@moultrienews.com,

OR MAILED (134 Columbus St., Charleston SC 29403)Please call 849-1778 with questions. *Must provide Badge No. and Department of Employment

for employees and Student I.D. Number for MUSC Students.IP01-681634

CM

02-689988

Good to go.Whether you're celebrating with friends or meeting aclient, nothing livens up a gathering like Mediterranean-fresh fare from Taziki's. Give us a call to learn about all ourmouthwatering catering and delivery options.

• Appetizers• Sandwiches• Gyros• Salads• Feasts

Open Daily 11am-9pm306 King St. • 843.576.3540 • TAZIKISCAFE.COM

We Cater To You!!

Next day delivery available for 10 or more.Menu available online.

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2 BR, 2BA Beautiful condo inGrove Park. $1100. Interiorpainted just like the model, builtin bookcases, FP, light woodlaminate floors, scrnd porch,pool. Quiet community. 20 minfrom MUSC. ferrot@musc.edu

TO ADVERTISEIN THE

CATALYSTCALL

849-1778

Rental Properties

CLASSIFIED PCLASSIFIED PAGEAGE• Household Personal Items for

MUSC employees are free.All other classifieds are charged at rate below. Ads considered venture-making ads (puppy breeder, coffee business,

home for sale, etc.) will be charged as PAID ADS •• PROOF OF ELIGIBILITY REQUIRED* NO MORE THAN 3 LINES * FREE ADS RUN 2 WEEKS ONLY!

PAID ADS are $3 per line ( 1 line = 35 characters) DEADLINE: TUESDAY – 10:00 AM* CLASSIFIED ADS CAN BE E-MAILED TO sales@moultrienews.com,

OR MAILED (134 Columbus St., Charleston SC 29403)Please call 849-1778 with questions. *Must provide Badge No. and Department of Employment

for employees and Student I.D. Number for MUSC Students.IP01-681634

CM

02-689988

Good to go.Whether you're celebrating with friends or meeting aclient, nothing livens up a gathering like Mediterranean-fresh fare from Taziki's. Give us a call to learn about all ourmouthwatering catering and delivery options.

• Appetizers• Sandwiches• Gyros• Salads• Feasts

Open Daily 11am-9pm306 King St. • 843.576.3540 • TAZIKISCAFE.COM

We Cater To You!!

Next day delivery available for 10 or more.Menu available online.

OOuurr rreecciippeettoo ccrreeaattiinngg

tthhee ddeelliicciioouussllyyuunneexxppeecctteedd..

2 BR, 2BA Beautiful condo inGrove Park. $1100. Interiorpainted just like the model, builtin bookcases, FP, light woodlaminate floors, scrnd porch,pool. Quiet community. 20 minfrom MUSC. ferrot@musc.edu

12 tHe Catalyst, April 6, 2012