st. francis health! - fall 2013

See page 13

for our

Calendar of

Events

Ounceof PreventionAN

Franciscan Health System • Fall 2013

health!

fruit and veggie

colors tohelp prevent

cancer

3 Learn how a routine screening saved

connie’s life See page 8

St. Francis

FROM ST. FRANCIS HOSPITAL AND THE OTHER SERVICES OF FRANCISCAN HEALTH SYSTEM

St. francis now offers 3D mammOgraphy

Inside3 CANCER PREVENTION

eating fruits and veggies from a

wide variety of color groups is good

for your health.

4 FRANCISCAN NEWSStay current with what’s happening

at franciscan Health System

6 BREAST CANCERLearn about your breast cancer

screening options, including the

new 3D mammography.

8 SCREENING SAVES LIVESread real stories of people who had a

screening that saved their life.

9 TIME FOR YOUR NEXT SCREENING?find out which clinics in your area

offer the cancer screenings you need.

10 LUNG CANCERDo you know the dangers of lung cancer?

12 WE’RE HERE FOR YOUfranciscan cancer nurse navigators

are with you every step of the way.

Find your nEw health care professional today!

Franciscan is a family of more than 12,000 doctors, nurses and staff who provide exceptional medical care at: Hospitals St. Joseph Medical Center, Tacoma • St. Francis Hospital, Federal Way • St. Clare Hospital, Lakewood • St. Elizabeth Hospital, Enumclaw • St. Anthony Hospital, Gig Harbor • Highline Medical Center, Burien • Harrison Medical Center, Bremerton and Silverdale • Medical Groups franciscan Medical group, clinics throughout the Puget Sound • Harrison HealthPartners, serving the West Sound

CEO, Franciscan Health System Joe Wilczekpresident, St. francis Hospital Tony McLeanManaging editor amanda Hobbs

franciscan Health System is part of Catholic Health Initiatives, which has health care facilities throughout the united States. ©2013, franciscan Health System. all rights reserved.

for questions or comments, or if you’d like to be removed from the health! mailing list, please contact us at 253-382-3850, www.FHShealth.org or write to: editor, franciscan health!, franciscan Health System, Marketing & Communications, po Box 2197, Tacoma, Wa 98401-2197.

Coming soon! Single bill for all Franciscan activityIn July 2013 your local primary care and Prompt Care clinics went live on our new electronic medical record system. In August, St. Anthony Hospital, St. Clare Hospital, St. Francis Hospital and St. Joseph Medical Center all implemented the new system. By 2015, every Franciscan clinic and hospital will have fully deployed the new electronic medical record — ensuring your health informa-tion is quickly and securely available online to you and your doctors.

As we deploy the new system across our system, patients will continue to receive separate bills from our clinics and hospitals. we understand that health care bills can be confusing and frustrating. During our transition to consolidated billing, you may have questions and concerns about the bills you receive. To help guide you through this process, we have set up a special hotline to help answer all of your billing questions.

BilliNg queStioNS? Call 1-888-779-6380 Monday through Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. for assistance.

Maternal-Fetal

Medicine

Franciscan Maternal-Fetal

Medicine Associates

at St. Francis

(253) 835-6260

34503 Ninth ave. S.,

Suite 200, federal Way

Gynecology/

Urogynecology

Franciscan Women’s

Health Associates

(253) 944-6950

34709 Ninth ave. S.,

Suite B-500, federal Way

Family Medicine

Franciscan Medical Clinic

- Bonney Lake

(253) 750-6000

9230 Sky Island Drive e.,

Bonney Lake

Arthur Maslow, DO

Scott Poehlmann, MD, FACOG

New Specialty Clinic Names! Sunanda uberoi, MD

Franciscan Rheumatology Associates at

St. Francis (formerly St. Francis Rheumatology)

(253) 838-3045

34509 Ninth ave. S., Suite 202, federal Way

Franciscan Endocrine Associates - Federal

Way (formerly Shaista Quddusi, MD, in the

Franciscan Medical Clinic – Federal Way)

(253) 839-2030

30809 first ave. S., federal Way

Franciscan Nephrology Associates at

St. Francis (formerly Northwest Nephrology)

(253) 272-5881


Franciscan Surgical Associates at St. Francis

(formerly Auburn/Federal Way Surgeons)

(253) 927-1800


Franciscan Surgical Associates - Auburn

(formerly Auburn/Federal Way Surgeons)

(253) 927-1800

200 auburn ave., auburn

Marco Pocholo Valencia, MD

2 Franciscan Health System | Fall 2013

Put cancer preveNtioN on your plate

The three color groupsAim to eat five servings of fruits and vegetables each day, and at least one from each of the three color groups.

Purple and Blue

Red and orange

green and Yellow

you know that eating fruits and vegetables is important for your overall health, but did you know eating lots of produce can also reduce your risk for cancer? The key is filling your plate with many different colors.

“The same plant chemicals that give different fruits and vegetables their colors also help protect your body against cancer,” said Tricia Sinek, rD, a Franciscan Cancer Care

expert. “Phytochemicals are naturally occurring compounds that protect plants, and they also protect your cells when you eat them.”

Different types of phytochemicals protect your body in different ways, so consuming a variety of produce colors is key for reaping as many benefits as you can. For instance, some phytochemicals suppress the growth of cancer. others help your cells unload toxins that otherwise may damage the genetic

Tricia Sinek, RD

material inside of your cells contributing to cancer. And others strengthen your cell walls so they’re less prone to form harmful compounds in your body.

How To eaT THe rainbow“Ideally, you want to consume a mini-mum of five servings of fruits and vegetables per day with at least one food from each color group,” Sinek said. These color groups include:■■■ Purple and blue foods: grapes,

beets, berries and eggplant■■■ red and orange foods: tomatoes,

peppers, apples, oranges and sweet potatoes

■■■ Green and yellow foods: kale, spinach, broccoli, string beans and squash

In addition, consume plants that provide lots of aromas and flavors because they often contain cancer-preventing proper-ties, too, Sinek explained. Examples of these plants include garlic, onions, herbs, spices, horseradish and olives.

GeTTinG sTarTedone of the best ways to increase the variety of colors, odors and flavors in your diet is by starting slow. “Choose one food from a color group for a day,” Sinek said. After a few days, add another color so now you’re getting at least two servings of brightly colored plants. Continue adding colors to your diet, experimenting with new foods and flavors to discover what you enjoy.

“It’s been shown that we eat with our eyes first. So if your food is beautiful, it enhances your enjoyment,” Sinek said. “At the same time, you’re reducing your risk for disease.”

+ Want to learn more about healthy eating? Visit FHShealth.org/Classes often to find a class in your area.

www.FHShealth.org 3 www.FHShealth.org 3

St. francis radiation oncology Center earns national accreditation

St. francis radiation oncology Center, located on

the St. francis Hospital campus, in collaboration

with Virginia Mason Medical Center, has been

awarded a three-year term of accreditation in

radiation oncology as the result of a recent review

by the american College of radiology (aCr). The coveted

and rare aCr seal represents the highest quality and

patient safety in radiation therapy.

“This is a testament of our commitment to provide

high quality care for our patients,” said paul Mitsuyama,

MD, medical director of St. francis radiation oncology.

“This radiation oncology program is the only private

facility in the state of Washington to have been awarded

aCr accreditation,” he added. “The aCr seal assures our

patients that their treatment is being performed at a

facility and by staff that have met the highest levels of

quality and radiation safety.”

radiation therapy is used in more than half of all

cancer cases. Innovative approaches available at

St. francis radiation oncology Center include image-

guided radiation therapy, intensity-modulated

radiation therapy and brachytherapy.

new services available at Franciscan Medical Pavilion in Bonney Lake

Franciscan Medical Pavilion in Bonney Lake opened in June with family medicine, internal medicine, Prompt Care, a retail pharmacy and laboratory services. recently, the services expanded to include physical therapy and state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging (3D Mammography, ultrasound, CT, MrI and pain management injections).

“The pavilion is the result of Franciscan’s mission to create healthier communities by offering high quality care in a calming environment where the patient always comes first,” said Franciscan Medical Group President and Chief Medical officer, Stephen Spare, MD.

Get ready for Medicare open enrollment! Easily compare plans with our FrEE resource.Thinking of signing up for a Medicare Advantage health plan? Franciscan Health System is pleased to provide a free Medicare Insurance Helpline operated by MedicareCompareuSA. The service can help you learn more about how Medicare Advantage plans work and how to pick the one that’s right for you and your needs. you can also learn about plans that are accept-ed by your Franciscan Medical Group physicians and Franciscan hospitals.

MedicareCompareuSA Insurance Specialists are licensed, trained and salaried employees with the mission of helping you find the right Medicare plan that best fits your individual needs, preferences and budget. you can take advantage of their free services as you approach Medicare age (65), or contact them during the annual fall open enrollment period october 15-December 7.

Contact MedicareCompareuSA today by calling 1-866-491-3860 (toll free) or visit online at www.MedicareCompareuSA.com

The Medicare Insurance Helpline is provided to Medicare beneficiaries at no cost and with no obligation. Medicare beneficiaries are also free to contact each Medicare plan directly, work with any licensed Medicare agent, or access Medicare plan information by calling 1-800-meDIcare or online at www.medicare.gov. Medicare CompareUSA is not affiliated with the Federal Medicare program.

learn more at FHShealth.org/StFrancisRadiationCare for the whole family! learn more at FHShealth.org/PatientsFirst


get CARe 24 HouRS A dAY BY PHoNe oR weBCAM witH viRtuAl uRgeNt CARe!

Who hasn’t been there? You’re up in the middle of the night because your little

one has a fever and bad cough. or maybe you’re home sick from work, feeling

awful, and the thought of leaving your home is more than you can handle.

With franciscan Virtual urgent Care, we’re there to help you 24/7 by phone or

secure video chat so you can get the care you need, when you need it. a phone

call or couple clicks later and you’re speaking with a board-certified doctor or

nurse practitioner from the comfort of your own home. We can even call a

prescription in to your local pharmacy if one is needed. all for only $35.

How iT works.Visit franciscanCareNow.org on your computer, tablet or smartphone and

click on “get care now.” after answering a few questions about the reason you

need care, you’re on your way to feeling better. We will contact you by phone

if you want a phone visit or by SkypeTM if you’d like to be seen by video chat

— usually within 30 minutes.

of course you can also turn to one of our clinics or prompt Care urgent care

centers for exceptional care in person. When you visit FranciscanCareNow.org

we’ll also provide you information and directions to the nearest franciscan

clinics and urgent care centers.

sTarT feelinG beTTer now. for years our patients have sought us out from the plateau to the peninsula for

primary care, because they know they’re in good hands, but now there’s another

reason. With franciscan Virtual urgent Care, we’re the first of our kind to offer

24/7 medical care by phone or video chat to help you start feeling better now.

the care you need, when you need it. learn more at FranciscanCareNow.org

Franciscan establishes Center of occupational Health and Education

Franciscan Health System, in partner-ship with the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) and leading health systems and clinics in the region, has been selected to be the Center of occupational Health and Education (CoHE) of western washington. The CoHE program is designed to improve injured worker outcomes and reduce disability through the education and implementation of occupational health best practices by clinicians and support care coordination of workers through health service coordinators. The CoHE of western washington is the largest CoHE in the state.

“At Franciscan, we understand that returning workers to good health so they can return to their jobs as soon as safely possible is important to employers and employees,” said Paul Darby, MD, CoHE medical director and medical director for Franciscan’s occupational Health program.

The Center of occupational Health and Education of western washington is a broad-based partnership that includes leading healthcare systems and clinics.

For more information, visit www.FHShealth.org/CoHe


Exciting advancement in breast cancer screeningfranciscan Breast Center at St. francis offers new 3D mammography in your community


www.FHShealth.org 7

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. That’s the bad news. The good news is mammography is the very best tool to detect this disease early. yearly screen-ings increase the likelihood that cancer will be detected earlier when there are more treatment options available and a greater chance of survival.

when you schedule your mammogram at the Franciscan Breast Center at St. Francis (previously women’s Health & Breast Center) you may notice an exciting development since your previous screenings. That’s because the Franciscan Breast Center recently acquired 3-dimensional (3D) mammography technology, a revolutionary new tool to improve the early detection of breast cancer.

“overall, the experience of 3D mammography is very similar to what you’re used to with 2D mammogra-phy, and in fact you’ll receive a combination of 2D and 3D mammog-raphy within the same exam,” said Khai Tran, mD, board-certified

radiologist at St. Francis Hospital in Federal way. “The difference is whereas 2D takes two views of the breast, 3D mammography does an arc around the compressed breast and takes a series of images within seconds. This allows the radiologist to look at the breast layer by layer for a more comprehensive screening of the breast tissue.”

MakinG a difference in deTecTionwhile 2D technology continues to be an effective screening and diagnostic tool, 3D mammography offers some benefits beyond traditional mammography. The more detailed results improve the rate of cancer detection by 10 to 30 percent, Dr. Tran said.

“For women with dense breast tissue, it can be difficult to spot cancer with 2D mammography because it can blend in with the breast tissue,” Dr. Tran said. “3D mammography makes cancer easier to spot in these women because we can look at the tissue one layer at a time.” This is especially beneficial for young, pre-meno-pausal women who are more likely to have dense breasts and are also more likely to have very aggressive tumors.

The new 3D mammography significantly

Khai Tran, M.D.

To schedule your mammogram today, call the franciscan Breast Center at St. francis at (253) 944-4025.

decreases the likelihood that you’ll be called back after your test for a follow-up mammogram to get a closer look at abnormal areas. “research shows that the call-back rate drops by as much as 30 percent with 3D mammography compared with 2D mam-mography alone,” Dr. Tran said. “Beyond the inconvenience, the experience of being called back can be very anxiety-provoking and stressful for women, so this makes a big difference in your overall experience and peace of mind.”

wHy you sHouldn’T waiT Due to conflicting reports in recent years, you may feel confused about recommendations for breast cancer screenings. “we still fully support the recom-mendation that women start annual screenings at age 40,” Dr. Tran said. If you have a family history of the disease, discuss starting screenings sooner with your physician as well as the possibility of doing genetic testing.

“It’s also important to receive clinical breast exams once a year and be sure to get your mammogram annually,” Dr. Tran said. “Even if your results are normal, it’s important to get screened yearly because cancer can grow within that time. Detecting cancer as early as possible offers the greatest opportunity at having a successful recovery.”

www.FHShealth.org 7

PeoPle wHo know:

Cancer screenings save livesYou have heard it before — cancer screenings save lives — but when you hear it from someone who had their life saved, it takes on a

whole new meaning. Remember, the earlier cancer is detected, the more successful the treatment. Always discuss your health, your

habits and your family history with your physician as they may influence when and how often you should receive screenings.

Ken BeckmanDiagnosed with lung cancer in 2013Treatment team: Franciscan Cancer Center, Pulmonary Consultants, Northwest Medical Specialties

“A routine blood test showed there was too much calcium in my blood. My doctor said this can be an indication of cancer and sent me for a chest X-ray. The test found some-thing unusual, and a bron-choscopy and biopsy showed I had a tumor in the lower lobe of my left lung — even though I don’t smoke. Doctors were able to remove it in surgery along with samples of lymph nodes, which didn’t have any signs of cancer. Currently, I’m cancer-free and will follow up with CT scans about every six months.”

Annmarie Powers-VanceDiagnosed with breast cancer in 2012Treatment team: Franciscan Cancer Center, Virginia Mason

“After a routine mammo-gram, my doctor called me and said there was an abnormal reading. I was sent for an ultrasound and biopsy, which found I had a tumor in my breast. It was stage I. I had a lumpectomy, six weeks of radiation, and hormone therapy. My six-month mammogram showed I’m now clear of cancer. Mammograms save lives. If I had skipped the test for a year or two the cancer could have killed me, but it was caught early because of the yearly test.”

Connie ShirkDiagnosed with colon cancer in 2012 Treatment team: Franciscan Cancer Center, Northwest Medical Specialties

“I had been putting off a colonoscopy when my doctor insisted I get one. The screening found cancerous polyps so I was scheduled for surgery and had a section of my colon removed. I then had six months of chemotherapy. I previously had a few symp-toms that should have warned me, but I rationalized them away. I thought a colonoscopy would be painful, but it’s a breeze. If people like me knew just how easy it was, they might get screened sooner before cancer has a chance to develop. Today I am fortunate to be cancer-free.”

Chris SmithDiagnosed with prostate cancer in 2011Treatment team: Franciscan Cancer Center

“Every year when I get done with a routine annual physical, I sign up for the next year. My last physical saved my life. During the physical my doctor found hard masses in my prostate, so I was sent for a biopsy. The test confirmed that I had a very aggressive, fast-growing cancer. The change happened in one year — everything was normal the year before but this time I had cancer. I then had a robotic prosta-tectomy and couldn’t be happier with the outcome.”

franciscan Cancer Center is a collaboration of dedicated franciscan Health System and franciscan Medical group surgeons, clinicians, staff and community specialist partners, who together provide american College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer accredited oncology care to patients throughout the South puget Sound.


www.FHShealth.org 9

“I encourage my patients to take the opportunity to get screened for cancers of the cervix, breast, colon and rectum, endometrium and prostate, as well as have a cancer-related physical examination suggested by the American Cancer Society,” said Kamran Khan, Md, family medicine physician at Franciscan Medical Clinic on 11th Place in Federal Way. “A small effort on your part can make a significant difference by saving your own life.”

Schedule life-saving screenings today! Contact a clinic near you from the list below.

Pap test FCervical cancer

screening

Beginning at age 21, yearly pelvic exam with Pap collection every 3 years or

based on your doctor’s recommendations

Franciscan women’s Health Associates

320th (253) 838-1520 federal Way (253) 944-6950

St. francis (253) 838-3695 Franciscan Medical Clinic 11th place (253) 927-2150 St. francis (253) 874-2227

federal Way (253) 839-2030 Milton (253) 922-5262

Bonney Lake (253) 750-6000

Mammography FAn X-ray of the breasts

to check for signs of breast cancer

once a year starting at age 40. if you’re at high risk or have a

family history of breast cancer, talk to your doctor about whether you

should start screenings earlier.

Franciscan Breast Center at St. Francis

(253) 944-4025 Franciscan Medical Pavilion Bonney Lake (253) 573-7320

Colorectal cancer screening

M/Flooks for signs of cancer

and pre-cancer in the colon and rectum

Colonoscopy starting at age 50, repeated every 10 years.1

Franciscan digestive Care Associates at St. Francis

(253) 272-8664

PSA blood test with or without a rectal exam

MChecks for

prostate cancer

Starting at age 50, discuss the pros and cons of this test with your doctor. Men at high risk, such as those with a family history, should discuss the test with their doctor starting at age 45.

Franciscan Medical Clinic 11th place (253) 927-2150 St. francis (253) 874-2227


Bonney Lake (253) 750-6000

Skin cancer screening M/FClinical skin examination

discuss with your doctor whether a visual skin examination

is right for you.



Bonney Lake (253) 750-6000

Ct scan of the lungs M/FChecks for lung cancer in

people who are at risk

if you have a history of smoking 30 pack-years, equal to one pack per day for 30 years or two packs

a day for 15 years, ask your doctor about a lung cancer screening.



Bonney Lake (253) 750-6000

1 Additional methods for colon cancer screenings include: fecal occult blood test yearly; flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years; double contrast barium every 5 years; computed tomography every 5 years.

SCreening wHo wHy wHen? wHere?

Kamran Khan, MD

Is it time for your next screening?

www.FHShealth.org 9

Time for a lung cancer screening? If you’re at increased risk for lung cancer, such as having smoked a pack a day for 30 years or two packs a day for 15 years, you should get screened. Visit FHShealth.org/lungAware.

If you’ve brushed off concerns about lung cancer risk because you never smoked or quit years ago, you may not be off the hook. Lung cancer kills more people each year than any kind of cancer. “Although smoking is respon-sible for the majority of lung cancer deaths, certain forms of lung cancer that aren’t associated with smoking are on the rise,” said Frank Senecal, mD, a board-certified medical oncologist and medical director of Franciscan Cancer Center.

Besides smoking, exposure to pollu-tion and chemicals such as asbestos and radon gas may increase your risk, said Saif Kasubhai, mD, a board-certified medical oncologist at St. Francis Hospi-tal. Even if you never smoked, second-hand smoke — breathing in the smoke from other people’s cigarettes — can boost your risk for lung cancer, too.

new researcH yields life-savinG resulTs with lung cancer, you may not have any symptoms early on. “Early detection is everything,” Dr. Senecal said. “often, once you develop symptoms of lung cancer such as shortness of breath or coughing up blood, the disease is already very advanced.” Fortunately, a study published in the spring of 2013 in the New England Journal of Medicine found that low-dose CT scans reduce lung cancer deaths.

Frank Senecal, MD Saif Kasubhai, MD

Do you know the

dANgeRS ofluNg CANCeR?Franciscan offers most advanced services for screening and treatment

“CT scans can help detect lung cancer earlier when we have a greater chance at an effective cure,” Dr. Kasubhai said.

Currently, the standard recommenda-tion for receiving a lung cancer screening is a history of smoking “30 pack-years,” which is equal to smoking one pack per day for 30 years or two packs per day for 15 years. If you’ve been exposed to other chemicals or have a family history of the disease, discuss with your doctor whether you should be tested.

“Franciscan has embraced the newest research findings and is committed to providing imaging for patients who need it in order to identify disease sooner so we can improve patients’ chances of survival,” Dr. Senecal said.

Stacy Engle quit smoking with help from our Freedom from Tobacco program.



one of the best ways

to reduce your risk

for lung cancer, as well

as countless other

diseases, is to quit

tobacco. even if you’ve

tried kicking the habit

before, franciscan’s

highly successful

freedom from Tobacco

smoking cessation

program will help you

reach your goals.

“Since its inception

by Dr. patrick Hogan in

May 1992, freedom

from Tobacco’s free

weekly support group

has assisted those

who want to quit

tobacco, help others

quit, stay quit or deal with issues of relapse,”

said Heidi Henson, program facilitator. “Because

it’s a true support group, we focus on who’s there

and what they want to achieve, offering com-

pletely personalized support to help them quit

and stay quit for life.”

federal Way resident Stacy engle, 45, smoked

for 24 years. When a bout of pneumonia landed

her in St. francis Hospital in 2011 she saw a poster advertising

the freedom from Tobacco program. She attended her first

meeting the week she got out.

“at the time I started going to the meetings, everyone else in

the group had already quit, but I never felt judged for being the

only current smoker,” engle said. Instead, she felt bolstered by their

success and support and learned from other group members

what worked best for them. She smoked her last cigarette after

attending the meeting for two weeks and continued going every

Thursday for a full year. “It was great way to talk about frustrations

of wanting to have a cigarette and learning how to cope with

that,” she said. “I was always surrounded by a group of good

people trying to work toward the same goal.”

reAdy To quiT? To sign up for our freedom from Tobacco program, call (253) 223-7538 or visit FHShealth.org/Support.

freedom from Tobacco

Stacy Engle , tobacco-free for 2 years.

Heidi Henson (TBD)

www.FHShealth.org 11

a cancer diagnosis brings up emotions — and questions. “How will I care for my ailing husband during treatment?” “Can I afford to take time off from work?” “what will treatment be like?” “How will I tell the kids?”

If you’re diagnosed with cancer at St. Francis Hospital, you don’t have to face these or any other questions about your treatment alone. A Franciscan cancer nurse navigator is available to support you from diagnosis through survivorship.

offerinG undersTandinG“when you’re diagnosed, you don’t know what to expect,” said Tricia Sinek, rD, co-manager of Franciscan Community Cancer Program. “you’ve been given information that sounds like a foreign language.”

A nurse navigator helps explain what each of your appoint-ments and tests mean, why they’re important, and why it’s critical to make sure they’re completed within a specific period of time.

“All our nurse navigators have many years of oncology experience,” said Sinek. “They are instrumental in supporting and advocating for the patient.”

reMovinG barriers To carenurse navigation is an important part of cancer care. “I provide insight into what a patient’s treatment journey might look like,” said Susan nixon, rn, Franciscan nurse navigator. nixon serves breast cancer patients across the Franciscan system. However, we have nurse navigators for every type of cancer diagnosis.

There are many areas where your nurse naviga-tor can help ensure your needs are being met including social support, transportation, commu-nity programs and nutrition resources. If you have financial concerns or difficulty understanding complex treatment recommendations, your nurse navigator will also help address these issues.

“when I get off the phone with a patient, she usually says, ‘I’m so glad you called,’” said nixon. “I help patients focus, and also help them know what questions to ask their surgeon or oncologist.”

servinG our coMMuniTyIn our community, anyone diagnosed with cancer can call for help from a Franciscan nurse navigator, regardless of where you received your diagnosis. Physicians will often refer you to nurse navigation as well.

“Everyone’s at a different place in their lives when they are diagnosed,” said nixon. “The care we provide is personalized, focusing on the individual needs of our cancer patients.” Franciscan also provides community-based cancer navigators who work with specific ethnic minority populations with greater cancer risks, and clinic-based patient navigators.

Susan Nixon, RN

+To learn more about our cancer treatment programs, call (253) 426-4815 or visit FHShealth.org/Cancer.

Nurse navigators (L to R): Jenna Lewis, RN, Jung Lee, RN,

Susan Nixon, RN, Debbie Hellers, RN.

We’re here for you Franciscan cancer nurse navigators are with you every step of the way


See something you like? Mark your calendar! Franciscan Health System offers these upcoming events and resources to help promote healing of mind, body and spirit.

fall 2013

health!for your

Classes

eat it to Beat it: diabetes PreventionA two-part class series introducing participants to

the tools necessary to take control of their health

to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.

Our registered dietitians also are certified diabetes

educators specializing in health promotion through

exercise and good nutrition. Participants complet-

ing the introduction series will have the opportu-

nity for ongoing educational opportunities (for

an additional fee). $35/person. Register online at

FHShealth.org/classes.

TACOMA, St. Joseph Medical Center,

Dining Room 1 and 2, 1717 South J. St.

» Mon., Oct. 7; 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., and

Mon., Nov. 4; 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

» Mon., Nov. 4; 1-3 p.m., and Mon., Dec. 2;

1-2:30 p.m.

GIG HARBOR, St. Anthony Hospital, Green Point

Dining Room, 11567 Canterwood Blvd NW

» Mon., Nov. 11; 3-5 p.m., and Mon., Dec. 9;

3-4:30 p.m..

Heart Healthy nutrition SeriesHeart healthy nutrition series is a 4-week class that

will give you information on reading food labels,

eating out, portion control and heart healthy

eating. Cost: Free. Call 1-888-825-3227 to register.

» First and fourth Wednesdays of every month

from 9:30 -10:30 a.m.; TACOMA, Heart Center

Education Room at St. Joseph Medical Center,

1717 South J. St.

living well with kidney diseaseThis free class will help you understand your condition

better, learn ways to preserve kidney function and live

a better life with kidney disease. Register online at

FHShealth.org/classes or call 1-888-825-3227.

» Wed., Nov. 6; TACOMA; St. Joseph Medical

Center, 1717 South J. St.

events

An Autumn event to Fall For and your Skin will love it!Join us at our fall open house for gift sets, appetizers,

raffles, 20% product discount and 20% off coupons

for: skin care products, skin care treatments, skin care

packages and injectable services. To register, call (253)

838-3695 or email [email protected].

» Thurs., Nov 7; 4-7 p.m.; FEDERAL WAY,

St. Francis Medical Pavilion, 34503 9th Avenue

S, Suite 340

Annual Plateau Health & wellness expoJoin us for free blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose

and osteoporosis health screenings at this 22nd

annual event. Other services include cardiac risk

assessments, flu shots (limited supply), lessons in

emergency preparedness, health and wellness

education, community resources, free massage and

reflexology, financial health information and more.

Children’s events include bike and car seat safety, a

bike rodeo and a demonstration by the “Reptile Man”

– back by popular demand!

» Sat., Oct. 12; 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; ENUMCLAW,

Enumclaw High School, 226 Semanski St.

Susan g. komen — lunch for the Cure Join us for the 12th annual Lunch for the Cure®

— a fundraising luncheon and education

event where community members gather to

make a powerful statement in the fight against

breast cancer. Registration is required. For more

information, go to www.KomenPugetSound.org.

» Tues., Oct. 1; Noon–1:30 p.m., TACOMA,

Greater Tacoma Convention and

Visitor Center

Making Strides for Pierce County walkLet’s walk to help raise funds to fight breast

cancer! To register to walk or to make a donation,

go to http://makingstrides.acsevents.org.

» Sat., Oct. 12; 10-1p.m.; TACOMA,

Theater on the Square, 910 Broadway

Bunco for Breast Health Join us for an evening of

bunco, prizes and refresh-

ments as we raise money

for women in our community

who can’t afford mammograms

or other breast health services.

Register or make a donation today!

Reservations required. If you cannot attend, we will

gladly accept a donation. Appetizers provided.

Mammo Martinis and Cosmos for Cancer available for

purchase! Registration donation: $22. Register at


» Thurs., Oct. 17; 6:30 p.m.; FEDERAL WAY,

Twin Lakes Golf & Country Club

Bras for a Cause Join us for an uplifting evening of creativity,

sisterhood, and help support breast cancer

screening for underserved women in our

community. View artfully decorated bras, and vote

for your favorite. Enjoy refreshments. Proceeds fund

mammography screening at St. Elizabeth for

uninsured women. Registration donation: $10 in

advance, $15 day of event. Register online at


» Thurs., Oct. 24; 6-8 p.m., ENUMCLAW,

St. Elizabeth Hospital, 1455 Battersby Ave.

Celebration of life For many of us who have lost a loved one and wish

to pay tribute to a special person, the holidays are

an ideal time. Franciscan Hospice & Palliative Care

can help you honor those individuals.

RSVP today by calling (253) 534-7014.

» Sat., Dec. 14; UNIVERSITY PLACE,

Franciscan Hospice & Palliative

Care, 2901 Bridgeport Way W.


oCToBer IS BreaST CaNCer aWareNeSS MoNTH


HealtH talks:

Healthy is delicious — eating a Mediterranean dietLearn from our Franciscan Cancer Care experts why

foods such as olive oil, legumes, nuts and fish can

improve your health. Enjoy a cooking demonstra-

tion with a Franciscan chef, showing you how to

prepare these foods at Healthy is Delicious. Cost is

$10 per person and includes many appetizers.

Register by calling 1-888-825-3227.

» Wed., Nov. 6; 6–8 p.m.; TACOMA, St. Joseph

Medical Center, Lagerquist A&B Conference

Room

» Wed., Nov. 13; 6–8 p.m.; TACOMA, St. Joseph

Medical Center, Lagerquist A&B Conference

Room

Afraid to laugh, Cough or Sneeze? with Scott Poehlmann, Md Is your bladder running your life? Get answers and

solutions, from physical therapy and medications to

surgical options.

» Thurs., Sept. 26; 6-7:30 p.m.; FEDERAL WAY,

St. Francis Medical Office Building,

34509 Ninth Ave. S.

what’s wrong down There? — with Panel of gynecologists and a urogynecologistJoin our panel of physicians who specialize in

gynecological care for women over 40. Get answers

to your questions and solutions to issues such as

incontinence, prolapsed organs, and painful

periods. Register online at FHShealth.org/classes or

call 1-888-825-3227.

» Thurs., Oct. 10; 6-7:30 p.m.; LAKEWOOD,

St. Clare Hospital, Classrooms A&B, 11315

Bridgeport Way SW

Solutions for Hip Pain with Joshua A. Johnston, MdIs a bum hip getting in the way of your daily

routine? Find out which treatment options are

available to you as Dr. Johnston discusses minimally

invasive, surgical and non-surgical techniques to

get you active again. Register online at FHShealth.

org/ortho or call 1-888-825-3227.

» Thurs., Oct. 10; 6-7:30 p.m.; LAKEWOOD,

Tacoma Golf & Country Club,

13204 Country Club Dr SW

Advancements in Joint replacement with david Bishop, MdAre painful hips and knees impeding your everyday

life? Dr. Bishop will discuss non-surgical therapies

and innovations in implants and surgical tech-

niques that are helping patients achieve excellent

results. Register at www.FHShealth.org/ortho or

call 1-888-825-3227.

» Wed., Oct. 2; 6-7:30 p.m.; ENUMCLAW,

St. Elizabeth Hospital, Rainier Room,

1455 Battersby Ave

options and innovations in Joint replacement with robert yancey, MdWant to get back to enjoying the activities you

love? Joint replacement could be the answer you’re

searching for. Orthopedic Surgeon Robert Yancey,

MD, will discuss the latest innovations in minimally

invasive and surgical techniques that are helping

patients heal faster, experience less pain and

maintain longer-lasting joints. Register online at

FHShealth.org/ortho or call 1-888-825-3227.

» Tues., Nov. 12; 6-7:30 p.m.; GIG HARBOR,

Inn at Gig Harbor, 3211 56th Street NW

Arrhythmia and your Heart — don’t Miss a Beat with Amrit guptan, MdDo you ever feel like your heart flutters or is

skipping beats? Dr. Guptan, a cardiologist and

electro-physiologist, will discuss your heart’s

electrical system, what to know about arrhythmia

and when to see a doctor. He is considered an

expert on heart rhythm disorders. Register online

at FHShealth.org/heart or call 1-888-825-3227.

» Thurs., Nov. 7; 6-7:30 p.m.; TACOMA,

Fircrest Golf Club, 1500 Regents Blvd

your Heart. your life. Straight Talk from an expert with raed Fahmy, MdMost of us have some risk of developing heart

disease. Attend this free health talk with Franciscan

cardiology expert Raed Fahmy, MD. From

palpitations to heart and vascular disease

prevention and management, he will provide

solid information to help you stay heart healthy!

Register online at FHShealth.org/heart or call

1-888-825-3227.

» Thurs., Oct. 24; 6-7:30 p.m.; GIG HARBOR,

St. Anthony Hospital, Smalling Education

Center, 11511 Canterwood Blvd

understanding and Treating Back Pain with Caroline Carlson, ArnPMost of us will suffer some level of back pain during

our lives, often from injury or overuse. Join our

expert from the Franciscan Spine Center as she

discusses how the back works, common problems

and the latest surgical and non-surgical treatments

that can get you back on track. Receive a free Back

Basics book. Register online at FHShealth.org/ortho

or call 1-888-825-3227.

» Tues., Nov. 5; 6-7:30 p.m.; LAKEWOOD,

Tacoma Country & Golf Club,


is Joint replacement right for you? — with Steven Teeny, MdIf you are experiencing hip or knee pain from

arthritis or another condition, joint replacement

may be right for you. Dr. Teeny will discuss the

recent innovations in joint replacement, including

new implants, surgical techniques and equipment.

Learn about the options that are allowing patients

to achieve great results. Register online at

FHShealth.org/ortho or call 1-888-825-3227.

» Thurs., Nov. 14; 6-7:30 p.m.; LAKEWOOD,

Tacoma Country & Golf Club,


Advancements in Joint replacement with richard gray, MdAchy hips and knees? Learn how to stay strong,

mobile and pain free as Dr. Gray discusses the

latest innovations in surgical techniques and

minimally-invasive procedures that can help

you heal quickly and create longer lasting joints.

Register online at FHShealth.org/ortho or

call 1-888-825-3227.

» Wed., Nov. 20; 6-7:30 p.m.; FEDERAL WAY,

Best Western Evergreen Inn & Suites,

32124 25th Ave S


ST. JoSepH MeDICaL CeNTer1717 S. J St

Tacoma • 253-426-4101

ST. fraNCIS HoSpITaL34515 Ninth ave S

Federal Way • 253-944-8100

ST. CLare HoSpITaL11315 Bridgeport Way S.W. Lakewood • 253-985-1711

ST. eLIZaBeTH HoSpITaL1455 Battersby ave

Enumclaw • 360-802-8800

ST. aNTHoNY HoSpITaL11567 Canterwood Blvd N.W. Gig Harbor • 253-530-2000

Franciscan Health is now on Facebook, Youtube and twitter! ›› Search for “Franciscan Health System.”

Most programs and classes are free, but many require registration. For more information, call the number listed.

family eduCation

For more information about tours or family education

classes and to register, call 1-888-825-3227 (available

24/7) or visit FHSHealth.org/familyeducation.

Family Birth Center Tour and ClassesBe prepared for your upcoming delivery with a tour

of the birth center near you with tips for going

home with your baby. FREE!

newborn Preparation This one time class includes topics such as postpar-

tum care of mom and baby, hints for adjusting to new

roles, basic newborn care and resources. $50/couple.

Childbirth Preparation Four Franciscan hospitals offer childbirth preparation

classes. Topics include pregnancy comfort measures,

labor and birth including variations and interven-

tions, and postpartum. All classes include a tour of

the family birth center. $125/couple or free with

Provider One/ DSHS card.

Teen Childbirth Preparation Pregnancy preparation specifically addressing the

unique needs of young people 19 and under.

$60/coupleor free with Provider One/DSHS card.

Breastfeeding Preparation Covers basic breastfeeding initiation tips and accessing

postpartum lactation resources. $50/couple.

Conscious Fathering Dads-to-be discuss priorities, life adjustment, fears,

problem solving, partnership and basic infant care.

$50/person.

Safe Sitter Babysitting training for adolescents. Discusses topics

such as how to handle emergencies. $75/person.

Free Car Seat Safety Check Is your child’s car seat installed correctly? Certified

technicians will show you how to install your car seat

according to national safety guidelines. Available at

St. Francis Hospital in Federal Way and Highline

Medical Center in Burien. Please call (206) 987-SAFE

or visit FHShealth.org/carseat.

support Groups

Fall iCd Support groupA semi-annual event to bring patients and their

family or support persons together for an evening

of information and support regarding living with

an implantable (or external) cardiac defibrillator.

Call (253) 426-4766 to register.

» Thurs., Oct. 17; 6-8 p.m.; TACOMA,

St. Joseph Medical Center, 1717 S J St.,

Lagerquist A Conference Room

diabetes Support groupsLearn and find encouragement and support from

others coping with diabetes. Call Franciscan’s Diabetes

Services at (253) 426-6753 for more information.

» Second Tuesday of the Month; 5:30-6:30 p.m.;

GIG HARBOR, St. Anthony’s Hospital Confer-

ence Room A, 111567 Canterwood Blvd NW

» Third Wednesday of the Month; Noon-1 p.m.;

FEDERAL WAY, St. Francis Medical Office

Building Conference Room, 34509 9th Ave. S

» Fourth Monday of the Month; Noon-1 p.m.;

TACOMA, St. Joseph Medical Center ,

Dining Rooms 1 & 2, 1717 South J St.

womenHeart of Pierce CountyThis group is for women who are heart

attack survivors, are at risk for heart

disease or want to learn more. E-mail

[email protected] or call

(253) 426-4456 for more information.

» Last Tues/month; 5-7 p.m.; TACOMA,

St. Joseph Medical Center, 1717 S J St.

weiGHt loss

weight loss Surgery — learn the FactsFREE seminar about your surgical options at the

Franciscan Center for Weight Management, a

designated Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence.

Registration is required. Call 1-888-825-3227 or go

to FranciscanWeightLoss.org.

» FEDERAL WAY, Franciscan Center for Weight

Management, 34509 Ninth Ave. S, Suite 100

weight loss Surgery Support groupsWhether you’re contemplating surgical weight loss

or have already had surgery, we have a support

group to meet your needs. Register online at

FranciscanWeightLoss.org or call 1-888-825-3227.

» LAKEWOOD, Third Monday of the Month,

6:30-7:30 p.m., St. Clare Hospital Resource

Center

» FEDERAL WAY, Second Tuesday of the Month,

1-2 p.m., St. Francis Hospital Medical Office

Building, 34509 Ninth Ave. S


FHShealth.org

fraNCISCaN HeaLTH SYSTeM1717 South J StreetTacoma, Wa 98405

NONPROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDFRANCISCAN

HEALTH SYSTEM

ABOuT FRANCISCAN HeAlTH SySTeM

›› OuR MISSION

To create healthier communities

›› OuR VISION

To be the South Sound’s first choice for healing of mind, body and spirit

›› OuR VAlueS

Reverence, Integrity, Compassion, Excellence

Franciscan Health System is a family of more than 12,000

doctors, nurses and staff who provide exceptional medical

care in hospitals, clinics, urgent care and outpatient centers

throughout Puget Sound.

10437MB

YOUR FLUSHOTIS WAITING.Walk-ins welcome.

Get your flu shot today!Franciscan Prompt Care, 9230 Sky Island Drive E., Bonney LakeFor hours and information, go to www.FHShealth.org/flu or call (253) 750-6000.

st. francis health! - fall 2013

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