st. joseph health! - winter 2014
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See page 13
for our
Calendar of
Events
Franciscan Health System • Winter 2014
health!
happy heartFranciscan Virtual
urgent care:
you are what you eat
St. Joseph
FROM ST. JoSeph medical cenTer AND THE OTHER SERVICES OF FranciScan healTh SYSTem
learn how Franciscan heart
center helped
Frank get back on track
See page 6
Inside3 VIRTUAL URGENT CARE
Chat with a doctor on your smartphone?
Now you can.
4 FRANCISCAN NEWSStay current with what’s happening
at franciscan Health System
6 HEART CAREWorld-class heart care, close to home
8 NUTRITIONeat right for a happy heart.
9 MEAL PLANNINGgive your pantry a heart-healthy
makeover!
10 KNOW YOUR NUMBERSSure, but what does it really mean?
12 WOMEN’S HEALTHHormones and their impact on weight.
›› find us on facebook, Twitter and YouTube!get news and information about
health events and more at:
www.facebook.com/
franciscanHealth
www.twitter.com/
fHShealth
www.youtube.com/
franciscanHealth
›› Sign up for eNews!Sign up for franciscan
Health eNews and
receive a monthly
newsletter tailored to
you and your family’s health needs.
Choose from over 20 topics including
weight management, pregnancy,
parenting, women’s health, men’s
health, heart health and more. You’ll
also have access to our ereminder
calendar to keep track of recommended
preventative health screens and other
periodic exams for you and your loved
ones. Visit FHShealth.org/enews to
sign up!
Check out health! online @ www.FHShealth.org
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. Joseph Medical Center Syd BersanteManaging 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.
UrologyFranciscan Urology Associates (253) 207-42001708 S. Yakima ave.Suite 310Tacoma
Family MedicineFranciscan Medical Clinic (253) 274-75031608 S. J St., 3rd floorTacoma
Emily Benson, ARNP
Richard Johnston, MD
CardiologyFranciscan Heart & Vascular Associates (253) 627-12441802 S. Yakima ave.Suite 302, 304, 307Tacoma
PediatricsFranciscan Medical Clinic (253) 274-75031608 S. J St., 2nd floor (pediatrics) Tacoma
Vascular SurgeryFranciscan Vascular Associates (253) 382-85401802 S. Yakima ave.Suite 204TacomaRachel
Sammis-Falk, PA-C
Marjorie Bergsma, PA-C
Javier Yuvienco, MD, FACP
Alma Glamzi, MD
NeurologyFranciscan Neurology Associates (253) 274-75051608 S. J Streetfifth floorTacomaMai Won, MD
2 Franciscan Health System | winter 2014
Chat with a doctor on your smartphone? Now you can.franciscan Virtual urgent Care available 24/7 via phone or web
A SpIkIng 2 A.m. FEvEr. A rash that just keeps getting worse. Do you head for the emergency room, or wait and worry?
neither, said Cliff robertson, mD, chief operating officer at Franciscan Health System. with Franciscan virtual urgent Care, you can be treated by our specially-trained doctors and nurse practitioners from the comfort of your home. And for only $35.
Yes, we can treat thatDr. robertson estimated that up to 50 percent of what you visit a physician’s office or Emergency Department for can be handled virtually. This includes assessing cuts, burns and strains/sprains; treating urinary tract, sinus or yeast infections; and consulting on fevers, headaches, pink eye, rashes and sore throats. prescriptions can even be called
into your local pharmacy if medically necessary.
Care is provided by phone or secure video chat via your computer, smartphone or tablet. “much of what is provid-ed is peace of mind, and assistance in determining what to do next. For example, ‘Do I need to take my screaming 2-year-old to the Er, or can the issue be handled another way?’” Dr. robertson said.
And if care can’t be handled virtually — for example, a recommendation is made to either visit a nearby Franciscan clinic or go to the Emergency Department — the $35 fee is waived.
talk to a doc 24/7Franciscan virtual urgent Care is revolutionizing the way South Sound residents receive health care, said Dr. robertson. “From piloting this service to our employees, we learned that knowing you have access to a doctor or nurse practitioner 24/7 provides peace of mind. It’s like having a doctor in your family.” It also provides easy access to care for people living in the remote areas of the communities we serve, for whom a quick trip to the doctor isn’t a reality, said Janis Fegley, Do, a family medicine physician at Franciscan medical Clinic — Canyon road and Franciscan medical group primary care division chief. “within days of launch, we video chatted with a man living 40 miles from a Franciscan Clinic. The virtual service significantly broadens our reach.”
She added it’s just one more way Franciscan is helping to create the future of health care. “no one else in the region is doing this. we’re providing another way for people to receive care.”
Have an urgent medical question? Contact franciscan Virtual urgent care at (855) 356-8053 or FranciscanCareNow.org.+
Janis Fegley, DO
Cliff Robertson, MD
mikkelwilliam, E+/getty Images; ghislain & marie David de Lossy, Cultura/getty Images; Dan kosmayer, Shutterstock, Inc. www.FHShealth.org 3
Von Freudenstein is back to enjoying life, pictured here reading Dr. Seuss stories to local children. He previously suffered from debilitating facial pain that kept him isolated at home before having successful Gamma Knife treatment at Franciscan.
THE AFFOrdABLE CArE ACT And FrAnCiSCAn HEALTH SySTEM
January 1, 2014 marked the beginning of
the affordable Care act and everyone is
now required to have health insurance.
If you’re one of the many who are
uninsured in our state, and have yet to
enroll in a health plan, it’s not too late
to find an insurance plan that fits your
needs and budget. You may even qualify
for low-cost or free insurance.
The affordable Care act was created to
ensure everyone can get the health care they
need regardless of their budget, even if they
are sick or have a prior health issue. open
enrollment is now through March 31, 2014.
plans on the exchange that include the
franciscan network of physicians and
services including franciscan Medical
group, St. anthony Hospital, St. Clare
Hospital, St. Elizabeth Hospital, St. Francis
Hospital and St. Joseph Medical Center
are LifeWise, Community Health Plans
of Washington and group Health*.
Visit fHShealth.org/aCa for more
information about franciscan and the
affordable Care act. There you’ll find quick
links to various resources throughout our
community. ready to compare plans and
enroll? Visit the Washington State Health
exchange at wahealthplanfinder.org or call
1-855-WAFINDER (1-855-923-4633).
*While we participate in Group Health’s plan, they generally try to serve enrollees through Group Health clinics, surgery centers and other services. If patients sign up with Group Health, depending upon where they live, their access to Franciscan services may be limited.
LoCAL voLunTEEr rEgAInS voICE AFTEr gAmmA knIFE TrEATmEnT
von Freudenstein is a familiar face around Shining mountain Elementary School in Spanaway where he has been known to help celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday with a rousing read of The Lorax. you would never know that prior to gamma knife treat-ment two years ago, the pain of trigeminal neuralgia kept him isolated at home.
“The pain was like having a nuclear toothache,” he said. “I completely and utterly understand why it’s known as the ‘suicide disease.’ There is just no common term that can possibly begin to describe the pain.”
A close friend saw an ad for treating trigeminal neuralgia with gamma knife at St. Joseph medical Center in Tacoma – the only gamma knife facility located between Seattle and portland – and it changed von’s life.
“we thought von was an excellent candidate for gk radiosurgery,” said michael mcDonough, mD, the radiation oncologist who treated von with gamma knife at St. Joseph. “von had been on numerous medications which helped for a while, but eventually the pain progressed despite the meds and his quality of life was suffering.”
von said, “Dr. mcDonough and his team were amazing. They explained the procedure thoroughly in advance and there were no surprises. I was pain-free immediately.”
Gamma knife also successfully treats certain brain tumors and tremors. ask your doctor if you might be a candidate or visit FHShealth.org/Gammaknife to learn more.
4 Franciscan Health System | winter 2014
St. Joseph Medical Center continues support
of Hilltop artistsSt. Joseph medical Center recently served as the main, Sustaining Sponsor of the seventh annual Hilltop Artists “Better Futures” luncheon event in Tacoma which celebrated the impact of the Hilltop Artists’ glass arts programs and outreach work.
The luncheon supports the award-winning work of the artists who use alternative, experiential-arts learning to create powerful change and long-term outcomes in the lives of our youth and their families.
Through its programs, partnerships and youth advocacy, Hilltop Artists is known within the community for reducing truancy and recidivism, encouraging academic success and increasing graduation rates.
For more information about Hilltop artists and how you can join St. Joseph in supporting their mission, visit hilltopartists.org.
ST. JOSEPH MEdiCAL CEnTEr WinS CoNSuMer CHoICe aWard for 14TH YearSt. Joseph Medical Center is a co-winner of the 2013 Consumer Choice award
based on a survey of Tacoma-area residents by the National research Corp. The
prestigious annual award goes only to hospitals that independent consumer
research indicates have the best overall quality, image and reputation, and the
best doctors and nurses, in their markets. This is the 14th year that St. Joseph
Medical Center has earned the Consumer Choice award.
“This award is recognition that at St. Joseph and franciscan our patients are our top
priority, “said Syd Bersante, president of St. Joseph Medical Center. “This achievement
belongs to our dedicated and compassionate physicians, nurses and staff who make
St. Joseph Medical Center the South Sound’s first choice for health care.”
For more information visit www.FHShealth.org
FrAnCISCAn pLASTIC SurgEry ASSoCIATES movES To poInT ruSTonIn late February, Franciscan plastic Surgery Associates will move to the beautiful new retail community at point ruston located on the waterfront. Franciscan board-certified plastic surgeons Todd willcox, mD, Chris nichols, mD, and michael Cohen, mD, will relocate to the state-of-the-art new facility.
The new location will feature an expanded medical spa, staffed by licensed and trained clinical staff, and an AAAA certified procedure room. medical Spa services range from nonsurgical facial rejuvenation options such as dermal fillers, to massage therapy and skin care.
Franciscan plastic Surgery Associates specializes in cosmetic and recon-structive surgery including breast augmentation and reconstruction, body contouring and facial reconstruction. The current locations in Lakewood and pearl place will close when the new point ruston location opens.
For more information visit franciscanplasticsurgery.com.
nEW FrAnCiSCAn diALySiS CEnTEr OPEn in SOuTH TACOMAfranciscan dialysis Center – South Tacoma is now open and bringing dialysis care closer to residents in need. The new center,
located at 5825 Tacoma Mall Blvd., is conveniently located near local public transportation routes and has ample parking available.
Now the largest outpatient dialysis center within franciscan, it features a total of 22 stations including two home dialysis training
stations to prepare patients for dialysis care in their own homes. The new facility joins the suite of nationally recognized Franciscan
dialysis Centers and has several amenities to make patients more comfortable as they take on their treatment.
“This new center will bring state-of-art equipment, home treatment options, plentiful parking and a very skilled and caring staff to
dialysis patients in the South Tacoma Community,” said Marla fredericks, regional director of Nephrology for franciscan Health System.
For more information or to schedule an appointment call (253) 671-3140.
www.FHShealth.org 5
Frank Mermoud recently had heart surgery at St. Joseph Medical Center. Today he’s healthy and thankful for the time he is able to spend with
his granddaughter, Katie..
6 Franciscan Health System | winter 2014
franciscan Heart Center. Keeping you heart healthy. for life. To learn more, visit FranciscanHeart.org.+
wHAT IF you or SomEonE you LovE SuFFErS A HEArT ATTACk, needs heart surgery or requires a complex diagnostic procedure? when the unthinkable happens, you want to receive lifesaving care as quickly as possible in a facility offering the latest technology, excellent patient care — and close to home.
That’s exactly what you’ll find at Franciscan Heart Center, which isn’t just one place. It’s a full range of the latest in heart and vascular care provided by highly skilled experts throughout Franciscan. our goal is to help you stay heart healthy for life.
Just ask 79-year-old Federal way resident Frank mermoud. He had a diseased mitral valve. This valve keeps blood flowing between two chambers in the heart, but when there’s a problem it can keep the blood from moving forward. If left untreated, it can lead to heart failure and death. mermoud recently had successful minimally invasive mitral valve repair surgery at St. Joseph medical Center.
rapid, lifesaving treatments Franciscan Cardiothoracic Surgery Associates’ heart surgeons perform all their procedures at St. Joseph medical Center. “If a patient at another Franciscan hospital needs heart surgery, they have it done here,” said Craig Hampton, mD, FACS, Franciscan cardiotho-racic surgeon. “we offer a full spectrum of cardiac services with an emphasis on minimally invasive heart surgery. we’re really unique in the region and country
by offering small-incision valve and bypass surgery routinely.”
when performing minimally invasive heart surgery, surgeons make a very small 2- to 4- inch long incision in the chest instead of cutting the breastbone open. They use special instruments to work
between the ribs. “we find it’s better for patients, it leads to a quicker recovery, less blood loss, faster return to everyday life, and a shorter hospital stay,” said Dr. Hampton. “we’re on the cutting edge of offering these really modern techniques that aren’t done at a lot of places and have huge benefits for patients.”
what also sets St. Joseph’s Heart Center apart is the fact that the surgeons have become “super specialists,” within the practice, said Dr. Hampton. “we have dedicated experts for small-incision mitral valve surgery and small-incision bypass surgery. This means that when you have one of these procedures, you have the most experienced surgeon with extensive expertise in these unique procedures.”
keeping hearts healthymermoud’s mitral valve repair was performed with these minimally invasive methods. He stayed in the hospital for three days before returning home. “Everything went extremely well,” said mermoud. “Before the operation, Dr. Hampton fully explained to my wife and me what we could expect before, during and after surgery. All of it was very accurate. I did remarkably well after I was discharged.”
After surgery, mermoud was sent home with prescrip-tion pain medication. But he only needed to take two doses and never opened the bottle again. within just a few days at home, mermoud was able to return to his daily walks outside. “I couldn’t have chosen a better person to do this surgery than Dr. Hampton or a better hospital to have it done than St. Joseph.”
Craig Hampton, MD
Helping HeartsWorld-ClaSS hearT Care, close to home
Within just a few days of returning home, Frank Mermoud was able to return to his daily walks. he said, “I couldn’t have chosen a better person to do this surgery than dr. hampton or a better hospital to have it done than St. Joseph.”
www.FHShealth.org 7
eat right for a Happy HeartwHETHEr IT’S FAmILy HEALTH HISTory or not-so-healthy choices in your younger years, it can feel like you don’t have much control over your risk for heart disease. But actually, you can make a difference in your heart health starting with what you put on your plate. “A healthy diet and lifestyle are your best weapons to fight cardiovascular disease and it definitely plays a bigger role than many people realize,” said raza orakzai, mD, FACC, a cardiologist at Franciscan Heart & vascular Associates at St. Joseph.
when it comes to eating for a healthy heart there are two important factors to consider: How much you eat and what you eat. Here’s what you need to know.
keep portions under control obesity is one of the biggest risk factors for heart disease. It can increase your risk of high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes, which strain your heart. portion control can help you cut calories, lose weight, and improve your overall health, said Anastasia Fyntrilakis, mD, a family medicine physician at Franciscan medical Clinic at St. Joseph.
Following the myplate method at meals is a great way to consume fewer calories while eating plenty of heart-healthy nutrients. Here’s how it works: At each meal draw an imaginary line down the center of your plate. Fill one half of your plate with fruits and
vegetables. Divide the remaining side of your plate in half again — one section is for whole grains and the other is for lean protein.
what to eat In addition to keeping your portions in check, eat lots of nutrient-rich foods while avoiding those that contain ingredients that could harm your heart. “Cut back on how frequently you eat outside the home,” Dr. Fyntrilakis said. “when you eat out you don’t have as much control over what goes in the food and how big the portions are. Calories in coffee drinks and soda can really add up, too. Switching to water can make a big difference in your weight and overall health.”
Here are some easy ways to start eating for a healthy heart:■■■ Shop the perimeter of the grocery store — that’s
where most of the heart-healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, lean protein and low-fat dairy are found.■■■ get the whole family involved. It’s easier to make
these changes and stick to them if everyone’s eating the same way.■■■ Eat breakfast every morning. It will keep cravings
for unhealthy foods in check all day long.■■■ Cut back on salt. keep the saltshaker off the table
and season foods with sodium-free alternatives like herbs and spices.
Raza Orakzai, MD Anastasia Fyntrilakis, MD
8 Franciscan Health System | winter 2014
give your pantry a heart-healthy makeover!a healthy heart starts in your kitchen
so stocking up on good-for-you foods
is key. Here are some of the corner-
stones that create a ticker-friendly
pantry:
WHOLE GrAinS. They’re high in fiber,
which helps reduce blood cholesterol
levels. examples include oatmeal,
brown rice, whole-grain pasta, quinoa
and bulgur.
OLivE OiL. It’s rich in cholesterol-
lowering monounsaturated fats and a
healthier alternative to saturated fats
like butter.
NuTS aNd SeedS. reach for them
when you need a snack — they’re
good sources of protein and heart-
healthy fats
LOW-SOdiuM CAnnEd FOOdS.
When buying beans, tomatoes, broth
and other canned goods, make sure
the label says “low sodium.”
drIed HerBS aNd SpICeS. They add
flavor to food without the need for
blood-pressure-raising salt.+
ready to start eating for a healthy heart? pick up our heart health book for tips and yummy recipes. Visit FranciscanHeart.org.
www.FHShealth.org 9
IF you’vE HEArD IT onCE, you’vE HEArD IT A THouSAnD TImES: know your numbers — especially your blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol.
But perhaps you’re putting off that doctor’s appointment because you think, “I feel good, so my numbers must be fine.” right?
“not so,” said Susan Eardley, rn, a clinical nurse specialist and educator for the Franciscan Heart Center. “They don’t call high blood pressure the ‘silent killer’ for nothing,” she added.
You still need to know“most often, people don’t feel bad until something happens,” warned Eardley. “In addition to this, as we age, we subtly start changing our environment to fit our stamina levels and
may not realize our activity tolerance is dropping. So, knowing our numbers and understanding our individual risk factors gives us the opportunity to modify our habits and reduce the chance of a heart attack or stroke.”
You have controlThe good news is that even if your numbers are higher than they should be, focused lifestyle changes such as diet modification, physical activity and targeted medication when necessary can reduce your risk.
KNoWyour numbers
Susan Eardley, RN
here’s what eardley says you need to know about your numbers — and why.
The number: Blood pressure healthY: 120/80 goal
at risk: 135/85 and up
what it is: a measure of heartbeat force, blood flow rate and artery elasticity
whY it’s so critical to know: “Chronic high blood pressure leads to heart disease, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease,” said eardley. “It is usually without symptoms until damage to the organs has already begun.”
The number: Cholesterol (total) healthY: 200 or leSS
at risk: 201 and up
what it is: a measure of a wax-like substance our body needs. Too much raises the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Total cholesterol is made up of hdls (high density lipids), ldls (low density lipids) and triglycerides. Talk with your doctor about these individual numbers too.
whY it’s so critical to know: “Simply put, cholesterol acts like the gunk in your bathroom sink pipes,” explained eardley. “It slowly builds over time, and then that last glob of hair gel gets caught and flow slows or stops. a similar result in the body may be heart attack or stroke.”
Continued on page 11
10 Franciscan Health System | winter 2014
Have an urgent medical question? Contact franciscan Virtual urgent care at 855-356-8053 or FranciscanCareNow.org.+don’t know your numbers? Visit FrancsicanDoctors.org today and make an appointment for your next physical!
The number: Body mass index (BMI) healthY: 19–24
at risk: 25 and up
what it is: a height-to-weight ratio used to gauge overweight and obesity
whY it’s so critical to know: “a healthy BMI means less stress on the body,” said eardley. “Will we all be a dress size 4 or a 32-inch waist? No. But getting in a healthy range reduces the risk of many health conditions.”
The number: Blood sugar (fasting) healthY: 70–99
at risk: 100 and up
what it is: The concentration of glucose in the blood, a high number may be a sign of impaired glucose metabolism
whY it’s so critical to know: “high blood glucose does damage at the cellular level,” said eardley. “Microvascular damage can cause blindness and kidney failure, and raises heart attack risk. It also contributes to many other chronic conditions.”
The number: Cholesterol (total) healthY: 200 or leSS
at risk: 201 and up
what it is: a measure of a wax-like substance our body needs. Too much raises the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Total cholesterol is made up of hdls (high density lipids), ldls (low density lipids) and triglycerides. Talk with your doctor about these individual numbers too.
whY it’s so critical to know: “Simply put, cholesterol acts like the gunk in your bathroom sink pipes,” explained eardley. “It slowly builds over time, and then that last glob of hair gel gets caught and flow slows or stops. a similar result in the body may be heart attack or stroke.”
Body mass index, or BmI, can be tricky, explained Eardley. “you can have a BmI that’s too low as well as too high.” Factors such as muscle mass and pregnancy can also skew this result, so it’s best to clarify your results with your doctor.
All in all, each number has its purpose — and it’s critical to understand your health status. “knowing your numbers is helpful in identifying your risk factors, which can guide you in making healthier choices to protect your health long-term,” Eardley concluded.
Continued from page 10
www.FHShealth.org 11
HAvE you noTICED your CLoTHES FITTIng A LITTLE morE Snug LATELy? you may be experiencing hormonal shifts that are leading to weight gain.
Hormonal shifts can occur with menopause that may cause you to lose some lean muscle mass. with less muscle your metabolic rate decreases. many women also experience significant changes in their life that coincide with menopause. your kids may be getting older and more independent so you’re not spending as much time being active with them.
However, menopause doesn’t have to be synonymous with unwanted pudge. There’s plenty you can do to keep pounds at bay and, more importantly, protect your overall health for years to come.
start smallLook for ways to increase how much you move each day. Start small like parking further away from the entrance of the grocery store and using the stairs instead of the elevator. wearing a pedometer can help you aim for about 10,000 steps per day —
the recommended amount of activity in an average day.
Also, consider adding weight or resistance training to your activities two to three days per week. It helps build muscle mass to keep your metabolism humming and slows the breakdown of your bones that occurs with menopause.
snack smarteryou need fewer calories to maintain your weight now than when you were younger. reach for fresh fruits and vegetables for snacks instead of chips, crackers or pretzels. Eliminate sugary drinks like soda or sweet-ened iced tea, which provide a heap of calories with zero nutrition. And try serving meals on a salad plate instead of a dinner plate — you’ll get about 150 fewer calories but will feel just as full.
If you follow these steps but are still gaining weight, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with your doctor. you should rule out other hormone issues, such as hypothyroidsism or underactive thyroid which can lead to weight gain and is most common in women older than 60.
don’t ignore weight gain as you age. Visit FHShealth.org/womens for resources in your community for expert women’s care.
hormones and their impact on weight
+
“one of the biggest risks of gaining weight as you age is that you increase the likelihood of breast cancer even more,” said lynne clark, md, a breast surgeon with Franciscan Surgical associates - Pearl Place. “after menopause the main source of estrogen is an enzyme called aromatase, which exists primarily in fat cells. The more overweight a woman is the more fat cells and the more aromatase that also converts other hormones into estrogen and can feed breast cancer cells.”
12 Franciscan Health System | winter 2014
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.
winter 2014
health!For Your
SUPPORT GROUPS
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 Hospital, Conference
Room A, 11567 Canterwood Blvd. NW
» Third Wednesday of each month, 11:30–
1:30 p.m.; FEDERAL WAY, St. Francis Medical
Pavilion Conference Room, 34509 9th Ave. S
» Fourth Monday of each month, Noon–1 p.m.;
TACOMA, St. Joseph Medical Center, Dining
Rooms 1 & 2, Ground Floor, 1717 S. J St.
Franciscan Hospice Support Groups Call 253-534-7000 for more information.
Cancer Support GroupsLook Good, Feel Better — Dedicated to
female cancer survivors, this 2 ½ hour class helps
with make-up, head scarves and other appearance
tips during cancer treatment. Free! Call
1-800-227-2345 to register.
» First Friday of the month; 1–3:30 p.m.;
GIG HARBOR, Jane Thompson Russell
Cancer Care Center.
Yoga for Cancer Patients, Survivors and Caregivers — Open to anyone touched
by cancer as a patient, survivor or caregiver. No
yoga experience necessary. No registration
necessary. Free! » Second and fourth Wednesday of the month;
5–6 p.m.; GIG HARBOR; Jane Thompson
Russell Cancer Care Center
WEIGHT LOSS
Weight Loss Surgery — Learn the FactsFREE seminar about your surgical options at
the Franciscan Center for Weight Management,
a Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence. Registra-
tion 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.
» LAKEWOOD, Third Monday of the Month,
6:30–7:30 p.m., St. Clare Hospital Resource
Center , 4908 112th St. S.W.
» FEDERAL WAY, Second Tuesday of the Month,
1–2 p.m., St. Francis Hospital Medical Office
Building, 34509 Ninth Ave. S
EVENTS
March Is Colon Cancer Awareness! Tour a 12’x10’x10’ colon exhibit to learn about
colon cancer screening and prevention. Free! No registration necessary. Exhibits are open at
each campus between 7 a.m.–5 p.m. on these
designated dates:
» Mon., March 24, TACOMA, St. Joseph Medical
Center, 1717 S. J Street (Main lobby)
» Tues., March 25, FEDERAL WAY, St. Francis
Hospital, 34509 Ninth Ave. S. (Specific location
TBD)
» Wed., March 26, LAKEWOOD, St. Clare
Hospital, 11315 Bridgeport Way SW (Specific
location TBD)
» Thurs., March 27, ENUMCLAW, St. Elizabeth
Hospital, 1455 Battersby Avenue
» Fri., March 28, GIG HARBOR, St. Anthony
Hospital, 11567 Canterwood Blvd. N.W.
(Larson Lobby near cafeteria)
www.FHShealth.org 13
HEALTH TALKS
Understanding & Treating Back Pain with Julie Benson, ARNPFight back against back pain! Most of us will suffer
some level of back pain during our lifetime. It may
be an injury or a nagging pain from overuse. Join
Julie Benson, ARNP, from the Franciscan Spine
Center as she discusses how the back works,
common problems and some of the latest
non-surgical and surgical treatments that can get
you to the root of your problem. Attendees will
also receive a free Back Basics booklet. Register
online at FHShealth.org/ortho or 1-888-825-3227.
» Wed., March 12; 6-7:30 p.m.; TACOMA,
LaQuinta, 1425 East 27th Street
Advancements in Joint Replacement If you are experiencing hip or knee pain from arthritis
or another condition, joint replacement may be right
for you. You’re invited to hear our orthopedic experts
discuss non-surgical options and recent innovations
in hip and knee replacement, including surgical
techniques and equipment. Learn about how our
patients are achieving great results. Register online
at FHShealth.org/ortho or call 1-888-825-3227.
» Join Michael Miller, MD; Thurs., March 6;
6–7:30 p.m.; ENUMCLAW, St. Elizabeth
Hospital, Rainier Room, 1455 Battersby Ave
» Join Patrick Vaughn, MD; Tues., March 25;
6–7:30 p.m.; GIG HARBOR, Inn at Gig Harbor,
3211 56th St NW
Dr. Venkatesh Kandallu — Meet the Expert: Your Heart Questions Answered!Do you need a straight answer about a heart-
health concern? Are you looking for a cardiologist
who will help you you minimize your risks and
stay your healthiest? This is your chance to learn
from an expert. Join us for a free health talk, where
Cardiologist Venkatesh Kandallu, MD, Franciscan
Heart & Vascular Associates, will discuss risk factors
for heart disease, as well as provide you what you
need to know about arrhythmia, coronary artery
disease, heart failure, and how you can reduce
your risks and stay heart healthy. Bring your
questions as this may be just what you need to
understand your heart health, once and for all.
Register online at www.FHShealth.org/heart or
call 1-888-825-3227.
» Thurs., Feb. 13; 1-2:30 p.m.; AUBURN, Truitt
Building, Rainier Room, 102 W. Main St
FAMILY EDUCATION
For more information about tours or family
education classes and to register, please call
1-888-825-3227 (available 24/7) or visit
FHShealth.org/familyeducation.
Especially YoursA personalized three-hour private childbirth
education course for the expectant mother and
her companion. Registered students personally
select class content after arranging the date, time
and location which best suits their schedule. A
private tour of the Franciscan Family Birth Center is
an option. $200/couple.
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!
Childbirth Preparation Four Franciscan hospitals offer childbirth
preparation classes. Topics include pregnancy
comfort measures, labor and birth including
variations and interventions, 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/couple or 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.
Newborn Preparation This one time class includes topics such as
postpartum care of mom and baby, hints for
adjusting to new roles, basic newborn care
and resources. $50/couple.
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.
14 Franciscan Health System | winter 2014
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.
Women, Take Heart! A panel discussion just for youLadies, join a panel of Franciscan cardiologists, plus
Susan Levy, publisher of Franciscan’s heart health
book, as we celebrate American Heart Month. Enjoy
an evening of heart-healthy information, hors
d’oeuvres, wine and dark chocolate. Our experts
will tell you what’s new in women’s cardiology,
some of the latest advances that are happening
right here at Franciscan, and how to create your
own heart-healthy journey. We’ll offer door
prizes—and a free copy of our new 2014 heart
health book for every guest. Register online at
FHShealth.org/heart or call 1-888-825-3227.
» Thurs., Feb. 27; 6–8 p.m.; TACOMA, St. Joseph
Medical Center Lagerquist Conference Rooms
A & B, 1717 S. J Street.
Understanding Heart Valve IssuesIf you’ve been told you have a heart valve issue,
please join us Monday, February 3, 6–7:30 p.m.
Hear from heart valve experts, Cardiologist Daniel
Wuthrich, MD, and Cardiac Surgeon Craig Hampton,
MD, as they discuss a variety of heart valve issues like
aortic and mitral valve prolapse and stenosis. Learn
about managing these conditions, minimally invasive
surgery, as well as how you can be diagnosed in
one day at the Franciscan Heart Valve Clinic.
Register online at FHShealth.org/heart or call
1-888-825-3227.
» Mon., Feb. 3; 6–7:30 p.m.;
FEDERAL WAY, Best Western Plus Evergreen
Inn & Suites, 32124 25th Ave S
Mindfulness-Based Stress ReductionStressed or anxious? Have chronic health issues
such as heart disease, cancer, sleep disorders, or
pain that lead to frustration and even depression?
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
Program is an ideal way to learn life skills using
proven techniques. The program is developed and
lead by Franciscan neurologist John Wendt, MD.
MBSR includes a one-hour orientation, eight
2.5-hour weekly classes, and a 7-hour Saturday
retreat. Guided instruction covers meditation, body
scan, and gentle hatha yoga techniques. The
course also includes discussions about mindful
communication and stress physiology, readings,
and take-home references and educational
resources. Cost is $300/person. Register online at
FHShealth.org/mindful or call 1-888-825-3227.
» Introductory (Free!): Tues., Jan. 28;
6:30–7:30; FEDERAL WAY; St. Francis
Outpatient Center, 34515 Ninth Ave. S.
» Sessions 1 - 8: Tuesdays, Jan. 28; Feb. 4;
Feb. 11; Feb. 18; Feb. 25; Mar. 4; Mar. 11; Mar. 18;
Mar. 25; 6:30–9 p.m.; FEDERAL WAY; St. Francis
Outpatient Center, 34515 Ninth Ave. S.
» Retreat: March 15; 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; FEDERAL
WAY; St. Francis Medical Office Building,
34509 Ninth Ave. S.
» Monday, Feb. 3; Noon–4:30 pm.; TACOMA,
St. Joseph Medical Center, Lagerquist A&B,
1717 S. J St
Afraid to Laugh, Cough or Sneeze? with Scott Poehlmann, MDJoin us for in-depth education and a conversation about
incontinence, its causes, and the newest and greatest
treatment options including physical therapy,
medications and minimally invasive surgical techniques.
Get all of your questions answered. To register, call
1-888-825-3227 or online at FHShealth.org/classes
» March 5; 6–7:30 p.m.; FEDERAL WAY,
St. Francis Hospital Medical Office Building,
34509 Ninth Ave. S.
» April 10; 6–7:30 p.m.: LAKEWOOD, St. Clare
Hospital, Classrooms A and B,
11315 Bridgeport Way SW
CLASSES
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. Call 1-888-825-3227 to register. FREE!
» First and fourth Wednesdays of each month;
9:30–10:30 a.m.; TACOMA, Heart Center
Education Room at St. Joseph Medical Center,
1717 South J. St.
Fitting Food Into Your Fight Against CancerDesigned for cancer patients in active treatment and
their caregiver or support person. Topics include:
anti-inflammatory foods to aid recovery and healing,
coping with common treatment-related side effects,
and nutrition resources. Instructor: Nancy Steedman
RD, CD, CSO, a certified specialist in oncology
nutrition. Call 253-426-4428 to register. FREE!
» Third Tuesday of every month; 3–4 p.m.;
TACOMA; St. Joseph Medical Center,
Ground Floor Oncology Conference Room
» Fourth Thursday of every month, 10–11 a.m.,
GIG HARBOR; Jane Thompson Russell Cancer
Care Center classroom, St. Anthony Hospital
Pump Up Your KnowledgeThis class is for those on insulin pump therapies
or those considering insulin pumps. Please call
Franciscan Diabetes at 253-426-6753 for
information about registration.
» Classes offered Tuesdays, Jan. 28, March 25, May
27, July 22, Sept. 23, Nov. 25.; 6–7:30 p.m.; TACOMA,
St. Joseph Medical Center, 1717 S. J Street.
Living Well With Kidney DiseaseThis free class is being offered to those facing
dialysis in the next 1-2 years. Register online at
FHShealth.org/classes or call 1-888-825-3227.
» Classes offered Wednesdays, Feb. 5, May 7,
Aug. 6, Nov. 5; 2:30-5:30 p.m.; TACOMA, St.
Joseph Medical Center, Lagerquist C, 1717 S. J St
Transplant Choices for Patients with Chronic Kidney DiseaseIf you or a loved one is considering having a kidney
transplant, or being a kidney donor, you are invited
to attend this free conference. You will learn from
the region’s leading transplant experts about how
the evaluation and transplantation process work, as
well as what one should consider about becoming
an organ donor. To register, call 1-888-825-3227 or
online at FHShealth.org/classes.
www.FHShealth.org 15
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.
Self-diagnosis never ends well. Introducing Franciscan Virtual Urgent Care for $35.*
With Franciscan Virtual Urgent Care, we’ve got
you covered. We’re available to provide
consultation, diagnosis and treatment, including
prescriptions, when appropriate, for a variety of
conditions. Have a visit by phone or video chat
practitioners. Any hour of any day.
* If an in-person visit is needed to reach a diagnosis, then the fee will be refunded.
Due to federal regulations, patients who participate in government-funded insurance programs such as Medicare and Medicaid are not eligible for telemedicine “virtual visit” services at this time.
Get care now atwww.FranciscanCareNow.org(855) 356-8053
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FHS_VUC_HealthAd_Final_alt.pdf 1 12/19/13 12:34 PM
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