Healththe Source A HEALTH NEWS AND EDUCATION RESOURCE FOR NORTH COUNTY COMMUNITIES
May – August 2012 THE NEW Palomar Medical Center Delivering On Our Promise Pages 4 – 13
the Write from the Top HealthSource inside this issue... Dear Friend of Palomar Health, Volume 8 – Issue 2 SPECIAL FEATURES This is truly a season of celebration for the employees and May – August 2012 physicians at Palomar Health, as well as for the communities 4–13 Opening the Door to the New we serve! Palomar Medical Center Editor in Chief Heralded as the best example of 21st century health-care On Saturday, April 21, we celebrated Pomerado Hospital’s design, your Hospital of the Future will open to patients Janet Gennoe Klitzner 35th Anniversary with the community, celebrating our past in August. Learn more about the new facility, plus plans 4 17 Director of Marketing & The HealthSource and looking forward to continued growth in the future. for the current downtown hospital campus and Pomerado [email protected] Hospital. In August, the opening of the new Palomar Medical Center will mark a new era in health care for the region, with innovations and technologies that create a world- Managing Editor Palomar Health: 19 22 class healing environment. A Grand Opening celebration for the community will Tami Diamond Weigold 13 A New Name for a New Era be held on Saturday, July 28. Marketing Manager W elcome to Palomar Health. It’s the new name for the Also this summer we will take the first step in fulfilling a promise made to the [email protected] Health System of the Future. residents of Ramona with the groundbreaking of the new 7,600-square-foot Ramona Ambulatory Care Center. Content Editors House Calls 14 Diagnosed with high blood pressure? Not getting enough Gustavo Friederichsen Transformation of the Palomar Health Downtown Campus will result in a vibrant sleep? Palomar Health physicians address these important Chief Marketing & Communications Officer facility with expanded women’s and children’s services and other specialty health issues through our popular “House Calls” column. inpatient and outpatient programs. And the construction of a pedestrian bridge [email protected] that will connect Pomerado Hospital to Pomerado Outpatient Pavilion will begin Bobette D. Brown Health Education for Seniors this summer. Marketing Specialist 15 In partnership with OASIS, Palomar Health is offering a wide variety of classes during the months of As we continue to grow and transform our services, we remain committed to [email protected] May – August. Check out our latest programs and delivering our promise of excellent customer service and the highest quality of Mary Coalson register today. care possible. Health Education Specialist YOU ARE INVITED TO [email protected] In good health, 16 Close Up with Carol Tammy Chung Palomar Health Champion Carol LeBeau explores the A Celebration of Health Coordinator, Marketing & The HealthSource emotional factors of chronic pain and provides solutions to break the “cycle.” [email protected] Join Palomar Health in making history at the Grand Opening Elly Garner Saving Limbs of Your New Palomar Medical Center. Michael H. Covert, FACHE Marketing Specialist 17 Recreational runner Deke Houlgate faced losing his right President and Chief Executive Officer [email protected] leg, but doctors at Palomar Health’s Wound Care Center Saturday, July 28, 2012 Palomar Health found a way to keep his leg and get him back on the trails. Contributors 4 - 9 p.m. Joint Replacement – Institute of Quality CeCe Wilkens Get an up-close and personal look at this technologically 18 Aetna, one of the state’s largest health insurance Wilkens Communications advanced facility and enjoy self-guided tours, technology companies, designated Palomar Medical Center an Aetna demonstrations, free food, live music, kid’s activities, free Institute of Quality Orthopedic Care Facility for joint Design/Production health screenings and much more! replacement. Chase Design For more details and to register for tours, visit [email protected] ActivCentre Spine Care – A Success Story . 19 Guided by the ActivCentre Nurse Navigator, patient www.PalomarHealth.org/opening Trina Hinch Laura Savinovich went from foot-numbing pain to hiking Marketing Project Manager in Yosemite in just two months. [email protected] Mark Seal 20 Summer of 22 Bringing Primary Care Closer to You Rush Press With two new locations, 4S Ranch and Ramona residents will soon have a new option is ready to roll out summer specials. for health care right in their communities. Photography Vision Restored Palomar Health Foundation News Michael Balderas 21 Peter LaCarte’s blindness wasn’t due to aging, 23 The Palomar Health Foundation celebrates caregivers and David Cox, DPR Construction but rather a rare tumor on his pituitary gland. An recognizes their contributions as both medical professionals advanced neurosurgical procedure using high-resolution and as generous donors. The state-of-the-art New Palomar Medical Center in Escondido is Don Darrock Photography computerized brain imaging restored his vision. scheduled to open to patients on August 19, 2012. Trina Hinch The views and opinions expressed throughout this publication are provided for informational purposes only and do not necessarily reflect those of Palomar Health. Featured George Kung, M.D. articles and classes are not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, nor are they intended to reflect all possible opinions on a subject. We recommend that all patients seek the advice of their physician or other qualified health provider with any questions they may have regarding treatment options or a FOLLOW US ON: Carol Sonstein medical condition.
2 MAY – AUGUST 2012 www.PalomarHealth.org For a physician referral, or to register for a class, call The HealthSource at 800.628.2880. 3 “As our vision and plans have crystallized The New and as they continue to take shape – with PALOMAR MEDICAL CENTER the help of our staff, our physicians, our advisory groups, community leaders, volunteers and our Board of Directors – we are about to enter into an era unprecedented in the history of Escondido and Palomar Health.” OPENING THE DOOR – Michael H. Covert President and CEO, Palomar Health to the Hospital of the Future
• In August, a new era in health care for the region – and nation – will begin with the opening of the new Palomar Medical Center in Escondido.
Called the "Hospital of the Future", the new Palomar Medical Center has gained acclaim as the first hospital nationwide to incorporate a multitude of progressive innovations that create a world-class healing environment.
In 2004, nearly 70 percent of Palomar Health district residents approved Proposition BB authorizing funding of the new Palomar Medical Center, expanding Pomerado Hospital services and developing new satellite medical centers in communities throughout the district.
Palomar Medical Center is the first new hospital in North County in more than 30 years. The vision for what is heralded as the best example of 21st century health-care design crystallized through an extensive planning process that involved physicians, staff, the Board of Directors, community leaders, Palomar Health community councils and volunteers who voiced heartfelt opinions and proposed forward-thinking solutions. Palomar Health sought advice from some of the nation’s leading health-care futurists to coalesce these ideas into a structure that has become the first in the nation to integrate the largest array of evidence-based features that will enhance healing and sustain functionality over time.
“The building is the best example of innovative design principles that will stand the test of time,” says Gerald Bracht, FACHE, chief administrative officer, Palomar Medical Center. “There is a symbiotic relationship between this state-of-the-art facility and the superb staff. When we open the doors, our outstanding staff will breathe life into the building and that will be the true test of our extensive preparation for the Hospital of the Future.”
This issue of The HealthSource is filled with important information about the new hospital, plans for the current downtown hospital campus and Pomerado Hospital. You will learn how innovative technologies have blended with environmental designs to create what some are calling “the fabled hospital” of the future.
“The new Palomar Medical Center is being called the ‘fabled’ hospital, because our vision for a higher standard for health care is about to be realized,” says David Tam, M.D., FACHE, chief administrative officer, Pomerado Hospital. He was the Palomar Health executive in charge of managing construction of the new hospital. (continued)
4 MAY – AUGUST 2012 www.PalomarHealth.org For a physician referral, or to register for a class, call The HealthSource at 800.628.2880. 5 Partners for Good Health for All QUICK GUIDE PALOMAR MEDICAL CENTER TO KEY 2185 West Citracado Parkway “Our mission is to ‘heal, comfort and promote Escondido, CA 90291 health in the communities we serve’,” says Bracht. DEPARTMENTS 442.281.5000 “We have accomplished that, in part, through an inclusive approach to collaborative relationships with Emergency & Trauma, Patient several of the largest and most-respected medical 1ST LEVEL Registration, Cardiology, Imaging, groups and other health associations in the area. Pulmonary Services, Main Lobby These relationships will continue and flourish with Surgery & Procedures, Inpatient the opening of the new Palomar Medical Center.” 2ND LEVEL Rehabilitation, Cardiac Cath Labs, Endoscopy, Pharmacy Major partners include: Rehabilitation Suite Imaging Suite Heliport
3RD LEVEL Garden Terrace Café, Outdoor Terrace Innovative Technology for Today, Tomorrow Relocated and Expanded Trauma Private Patient Rooms & Emergency Services 4TH – 8TH “The opportunity to deliver care in a new and unique way is LEVELS East Tower – Medical/Surgical West Tower – Intensive Care, Critical Care what is most exciting,” Bracht says. “A primary goal was to build Palomar Medical Center’s Trauma Center serves more than a facility that can adapt to future technologies and innovations, 540,000 residents living in a 2,204-square-mile region – the even though we don’t know exactly what those will be.” largest trauma district in California. The area served reaches from 9TH – 11TH Unassigned Space for Future Growth LEVELS southern Riverside County to Scripps Ranch and from the Anza At the heart of this goal is the new Palomar Medical Center’s Borrego Desert to the coast. Each year, more than 1,200 trauma advanced surgery and procedures department that will house patients are treated at Palomar Medical Center, most sustaining Palomar Health and Kaiser Permanente have 12 expansive surgical suites and six Cath Lab/Interventional life-threatening injuries from vehicular collisions. announced an expanded, long-term agreement that Radiology suites. The structural steel truss system creates an designates Palomar Medical Center as the “plan obstruction-free floor area that will enable the space to be quickly Effective August 19, the Trauma and Emergency Department at hospital” for Kaiser Permanente members living in and less expensively changed in the future to create larger or the current Palomar Health Downtown Campus (555 E. Valley The New Palomar Medical Center North County. Members will be directed to the new smaller operating rooms as the practice of medicine changes. Parkway) will officially close. That same day, the Trauma and facility for emergency services or inpatient hospital Structural steel installed in one area is designed for the future Emergency Department will reopen at the new Palomar Medical care and diagnostic tests. Since 1999, North County installation of intra-operative MRI equipment. Center (2185 Citracado Parkway). From this day forward, all trauma BY THE NUMBERS Kaiser Permanente members have delivered their and emergency patients will be treated at the new hospital. babies at the Palomar Health Downtown Campus A pioneering design element funnels natural daylight into this work area, which is located deep within the interior of the The new Trauma Center and Emergency Department are story and will continue to deliver babies there after the 740,000 new hospital opens. building. Large windows in each operating room open to views designed for direct access to prompt care within larger treatment square-feet 11 building of a two-story atrium and hallway bathed in natural light from rooms equipped with state-of-the-art imaging and specialized 25 In 2010, Palomar Health and Centre for Health Care MILLION massive skylights. clinical equipment that can save minutes when it really counts. pounds of foot-high formed a new integrated physician organization CT (computed tomography) imaging and X-ray equipment are parking lobby “Ample research shows that natural light enhances the healing spaces structural steel 50 called Arch Health Partners (AHP). AHP provides located within the department to assure immediate availability for 800+ comprehensive patient care under 11 health process,” Tam says. “Furthermore, it has a positive impact on staff emergency and trauma patients. specialties. well-being and can help reduce medical errors.” The two Trauma Center suites are equipped with defibrillators emergency and Graybill Medical Group and Community This new structure is ideal for hybrid procedures that involve the and a ceiling mounted direct digital X-ray machine. A dedicated 50 trauma rooms Physicians of North County (previously known as collaboration of multiple surgical specialties. Already, specialty trauma elevator can deliver patients from the rooftop heliport to Sharp Community Medical Group North Inland) surgeons, interventional cardiologists and interventional radiologists the operating room within seconds. A separate cardiac receiving private, single- 1.5 12 acre green have provided primary and specialty medical care have been working together to identify how they can combine and room, adjacent to the trauma suites, is specially equipped to treat patient rooms with operating apply their skills in innovative ways to benefit patient care. rooms the ability to expand roof in North County for decades. These medical groups cardiac emergencies. In the event of a major emergency, these to twice the size are affiliated with Palomar Health for hospital and rooms and suites can be expanded for multiple trauma patients. 288 WIRED FOR TODAY, TOMORROW emergency services. With thousands of feet of cabling and fiber optics pulsing The Emergency Department will have 48 treatment rooms, which In 2010, Palomar Health contracted with Rady throughout the new Palomar Medical Center, the new facility outdoor terraces, planted is 15 more than currently available at the downtown hospital. with mature trees, flower, Children’s Hospital for inpatient pediatric and is fully wired – along with a secure wireless network accessible In addition, there are six critical care treatment rooms and one 17 shrubs and guest seating neonatal intensive care services at Palomar Medical throughout the building – to meet the demands of rapidly orthopaedic treatment room. The department is designed in three elevators, on every floor Center. These inpatient services will remain in the evolving information technologies that improve health-care safety modules, each with a central nursing station and support services. MILLION5 with one 3 soon-to-be refurbished Palomar Health Downtown and efficiency. feet of dedicated Campus (see article on page 10). With this The Emergency Department and Trauma Center are located on This robust system will support electronic medical record keeping electrical to life-flight interventional agreement, Rady Children’s physicians and nurses the first floor, with direct access for walk-in patients and those cable services radiology and cardiac staff these units and provide local high quality, expert and an array of wired and wireless technologies to provide arriving by ambulance. (continued) cath lab suites care for young patients who live in North County. connectivity to medical devices. Patients and family members will be 6 able to enjoy access to the Internet through a secure guest network.
6 MAY – AUGUST 2012 www.PalomarHealth.org For a physician referral, or to register for a class, call The HealthSource at 800.628.2880. 7 Promoting Healing Through
Evidence-Based Design Overhead paging will be CEILING Ceiling mounted limited to emergencies. exam lights in “Patients and visitors will appreciate the nature theme throughout LIMITED Instead employees and MOUNTED EXAM LIGHTING all intensive care the facility that promotes a sense of calm and healing,” says Tam. OVERHEAD physicians will be alerted rooms. PAGING through text or voice “The main lobby was designed by people experienced in creating messages to their PDAs or fantastic cruise ship environments and the success of their design mobile phones. Walkway to main entrance is reflected in the openness of the three-story main entrance to the new Palomar Medical Center.” CURVED WALL WITH Embracing Patient-Centric Care The interior design readily opens up to the surrounding outdoor HANDRAIL “The new Palomar Medical Center looks like a five-star resort, a environment while incorporating shapes and colors that bring Motorized patient lifts improve patient place of serene comfort providing expansive views of the Palomar nature inside. The energy saving, innovative wavy green roof MOTORIZED and staff safety in all Curved wall, with Mountains and Escondido Valley,” says Bracht. “But when we admit inspired undulating backdrops that designate reception areas intensive care and PATIENT LIFTS handrail between the first patients, our focus will be on assuring that this destination of throughout the hospital and an art-form pattern of soothing sea- critical care rooms in the bed and foam green glass intersected with sand-colored tile along one the West Tower. bathroom helps healing lives up to the expectation of delivering exceptional care.” minimize the risk of wall of the Garden Terrace Café, one of the hospital's restaurants. accidental falls. “It’s definitely the people throughout the hospital who will make our vision a reality,” says Lorie From the moment patients step into the new Palomar Medical Shoemaker, RN, MSN, DHA, NEA-BC, chief nurse Center, they will recognize that they have entered a world-class executive, Palomar Health. “Every single staff healing environment. While the goal is to create a sense of calm member is responsible for assuring that each patient for all who enter the new building, a variety of evidence-based No curb at the design features will restore health, help patients go home more EDGE-FREE shower for has the best possible hospital experience because health care is all SHOWERS accessibility about people taking care of people. We already excel, as recognized quickly, improve safety and enhance staff well-being and morale. and patient OUTLETS & safety. by being designated a nursing Magnet® health system.” Some of these design advancements include: CONNECTIONS
When Palomar Health was granted Magnet status by the American ALL PRIVATE-PATIENT ROOMS Nurses Credentialing Center in 2009, it joined a distinguished The 288 patient rooms average 320-square-feet in size and include Medical gas outlets, group that represents only five percent of all hospitals nationwide dialysis connections, a private bathroom and family visiting area with a sleeper couch electrical outlets and with that recognition. for overnight stays. These larger rooms accommodate portable data connections medical equipment, helping minimize the need to move patients are located in the “Magnet is a distinction that recognizes excellence in nursing headwall near the throughout the hospital. patient bed. care in all departments and across the spectrum of services, from BEDSIDE CONTROL EXTRA- SECURE ROOM acute hospital care to skilled nursing and home health services,” “Every room has the same orientation, which means equipment PAD WIDE WIRELESS SERVICE Shoemaker says. and the patient bed are always in the same location no matter DOORS NETWORK which room is entered,” Shoemaker says. “This becomes Since achieving Magnet status, Palomar Health has sustained A bedside control pad important in an emergency, when staff must respond immediately the process of continuous improvement through a major culture allows patients to manage Room service Extra-wide doors Secure wireless and know where to find essential equipment.” Some of the safety their own environment, is available all allow caregivers network for use transformation toward patient-centric care that teaches all staff change lights, temperature and comfort enhancements can be seen in the images on page 9. day, everyday. access to the by patients, members to focus on what is most important to the patient and or airflow, adjust window bathroom when family and shades, use the flat screen assisting patients. visitors. family on any given day. television, or call their nurse. DISTRIBUTED NURSING STATIONS “As health-care professionals, we are skilled in providing the clinical Gone are the centralized nursing stations in favor of distributed expertise needed to improve health and recovery,” Shoemaker says. nursing stations outside of every patient room. By working “We have learned that we can further enhance the care experience outside the patient room, nurses will be closer to the bedside and Patients can store their by addressing the patient’s emotional needs by asking our patients able to respond more quickly to patient needs. Windows provide personal PATIENT belongings in and families what is most important to them on any given day. visual contact with patients in the two rooms on either side of DEDICATED STORAGE FAMILY AREA the closet at Sometimes we learn that they want to eat some homemade lasagna each workstation. the far end of or to get their hair washed. By helping patients accomplish these each room. goals, we provide more holistic patient-centric care.” Each workstation is wired as a communications hub for maintaining electronic medical records. Electronic medical records are Each room has a Every employee has been trained in this core philosophy, including accessible to physicians and staff through a secure wireless network, dedicated family space with comfortable those who do not have direct patient-care responsibilities. providing current and complete information about each patient. sleeping space, special reading lights and an “We believe that the success of patient-centric care and service amazing view. “We will store linens inside each patient room and stock the excellence involves everyone, because if you are not taking care of supplies that are used most often in a cabinet just outside each Rendering patients, you are working to support other employees who are,” The sink inside the entry door has room,” Shoemaker says. “This further helps nurses remain at AUTOMATED an automated water faucet that briefly of all-private Shoemaker says. “When we earned the Magnet designation, that WATER activates whenever someone enters the the bedside and focused on their patients, rather than spending patient rooms was the start of a lifelong commitment to excellence because we FAUCET room. This provides a subtle reminder to wash time searching for supplies in the far reaches of the hospital.” hands, a proven step in reducing infection. and distributed know we need to be better tomorrow than we are today.” (continued) nursing stations.
8 MAY – AUGUST 2012 www.PalomarHealth.org For a physician referral, or to register for a class, call The HealthSource at 800.628.2880. 9 GROUND initially be managed at the new Palomar Medical Center until DESIGNED TO BE GREEN, SUSTAINABLE the medical emergency is stabilized. These patients will then be transferred to Palomar Health Downtown Campus for continued Encompassing 21st century technologies makes the new Palomar NATURAL LIGHTING inpatient behavioral health care. Medical Center an interconnected, organic building, according Rain or shine, patients and staff alike will know what the weather REHABILITATION INSTITUTE to CO Architects, the award-winning design firm that coalesced is like thanks to expansive windows, skylights, solar tubes and the best ideas of health care futurists into a world-class healing accessible outdoor terraces on every floor. Floor to ceiling windows The acclaimed rehabilitation program includes CARF Accredited APPROACH TO CONSTRUCTION environment. The architects were also tasked with reducing the along corridors provide unobstructed views of the surrounding and Stroke Certified comprehensive inpatient and outpatient impact of construction and operations on the natural surroundings. mountains and rolling hills. A unique grid embedded in the windows physical, occupational and speech therapy services focused on “The new Palomar Medical Center represents the pinnacle reduces heat and reflective glare without interfering with the vista. restoring patients to their physical and cognitive best following of progressive design technologies,” says Tam. “But a little Palomar Health made an early commitment to incorporating injury or stroke, other illness or surgery. known story of our success is how we approached building sustainable design solutions to advance healing, safety SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS the largest health-care project in California.” PALOMAR HEALTH URGENT CARE and satisfaction. Significant evidence-based research has From the infrastructure to finished floor, ceiling and wall coverings, When construction began more than eight years ago, CO demonstrated the positive healing benefits of promoting stronger the materials chosen for the new Palomar Medical Center are The existing Emergency Department will convert to a 24-hour Architects used a revolutionary 3-D design method called BIM connections to nature throughout the physical building. designed to be durable, easy to maintain, cost-effective and help urgent care department after the new Palomar Medical Center – building information modeling. This replaced traditional flat reduce noise. opens in August. Rady Children’s Hospital Urgent Care is planning By using dynamic modeling technology, CO Architects developed to relocate to the Palomar Health Downtown Campus. drawings that resulted in thousands of pages of blueprints. these sustainable design solutions: LED LOBBY LIGHTING Essentially, the BIM model provides a view into each wall and A dedicated ambulance will be available at the downtown campus Overtime, the LED lights will reduce costs by using less electricity above each ceiling showing exactly where pipes, ducts and GREEN WAVY ROOF to respond to emergencies requiring prompt transfer to the new and reducing maintenance requirements. Used as a design element electrical conduits are located. This environmentally sound structure was planted a year ago Palomar Medical Center. in the three-story high lobby, a wall panel of vertical LED lights will with drought-resistant native vegetation. This innovative feature “The new Palomar Medical Center was at the forefront of change colors during the day or to reflect colors of the seasons. significantly reduces both heat reflectance and absorption inside OUTPATIENT SERVICES the BIM revolution and won the 2010 American Institute of the building, helping to reduce utility consumption. The wavy roof “Through this and other innovations, we anticipate reducing A range of outpatient services will continue to be available Architect’s award for the use of BIM,” says Wendy Cohen, is an integral part of the facility’s storm water management system. energy consumption by approximately 25 percent,” says Tam. including outpatient surgery, physician, occupational and speech Palomar Health district director of construction. “This system therapy and cardiac rehabilitation, radiation therapy, sleep lab, allows everyone involved in the design and construction of the The wavy roof incorporates several large skylights and solar tubes EEG, diagnostic imaging and other diagnostic services. facility to understand and see the relationship of all systems that direct natural light into diagnostic and treatment areas below. in the building. In addition to saving construction time and Readiness Training Underway money, BIM will be used to assist with preventive maintenance and for future expansion of the new Palomar Medical Center.” will include converting all rooms to single, private patient use. The same care and attention that went into designing the Hospital By adopting many of the innovative design features found at the of the Future has been applied to assuring that the staff is fully Another innovation used an integrated project management new Palomar Medical Center, the building will reflect a renewed prepared to provide 21st century care when patients arrive in August. model, in which Palomar Health and all contractors worked environment of health and healing. together as a team, with a unique mission statement – Staff training for all employees assigned to the new Palomar Revolutionize Today to Impact Tomorrow – and core values “We are looking forward to the major upgrade of the downtown Medical Center began in April, with online instruction and onsite that focused on working together for common goals and hospital, which retains vital services and supports more than 200 orientation to the building. shared success. medically-related businesses in the downtown area,” says Escondido Palomar Health Downtown Campus – Mayor Sam Abed. “Having worked with Palomar Health since the “We expect every employee to be able to find their way around “When you have 5,000 construction workers and more early stages of planning for the Hospital of the Future, I know that the hospital from day one and be well versed in all safety and than 80 different trades working onsite, it is essential that Revitalizing Key Specialties the citizens of Escondido and the greater area will benefit from the emergency procedures,” Shoemaker says. “In addition, nurses everyone understand what the goal is and be able to Palomar Health Downtown Campus has big plans to revitalize state-of-the-art services that will be available at both hospitals.” and other employees will participate in intensive training to gain work together toward that goal,” says Cohen. the hospital that has served North County residents for more familiarity with specific new technologies in their work areas.” Palomar Health Downtown Campus will be the home of: than 50 years. “We approached the project with the understanding that This summer, staff will spend at least two days testing multiple real- everyone was responsible for the result, that everyone WOMEN’S AND CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL “We are committed to maintaining a vibrant facility life scenarios with scripted examples of patient needs. These drills had ‘skin in the game’ and would share the benefits if that will serve as a focal point for a revitalized Comprehensive services include the Birthing Center for labor and are designed to provide practical experience of typical situations. we completed on time and on budget,” Tam says. “We downtown area,” says Sheila Brown, FACHE, chief delivery, perinatal services for high risk pregnancies, gynecologic discovered that the workers found collaborative solutions Two hundred student volunteers from Palomar Health’s Clinical outreach officer with responsibility for the Palomar surgery and women’s outpatient services. Pediatrics and neonatal that helped move the project forward effectively.” Career Extender program will participate as mock patients and Health Downtown Campus. “Extensive conversations intensive care will be provided through a license with Rady family members to provide staff with realistic experience in with physicians, Escondido city officials, community leaders and Children’s Hospital. All expectant mothers will continue to deliver These companies had major contracts for the construction responding to a variety of needs. staff helped crystallize our plans to retain several key specialties their babies at the current Palomar Health Downtown Campus of the new Palomar Medical Center:
(555 East Valley Parkway). There will be no Labor and Delivery ● ● here, while also offering new services such as a 24-hour Urgent “We will test and train our response to a ‘patient’ arriving with CO Architects DPR Construction services at the new Palomar Medical Center. ● ● Care Center. Additionally, we will have the full complement of anything from severe chest pain to patients arriving for scheduled University Mechanical Bergelectric support services including pharmacy, laboratory, imaging, food ● ● CENTER FOR BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES surgery,” Shoemaker says. “By walking through each scenario, our Shengxing Vision System and nutrition, maintenance and transportation.” staff will become more familiar with locations and equipment and Inpatient mental health services include psychiatric care and crisis Construction of the new Palomar Medical Center began be better prepared to respond efficiently once the real patients The current Palomar Medical Center will be transformed into a management services. Patients can self-refer for these services, five years ago and will be completed for a total cost begin arriving.” (continued) destination for expanded women’s and children’s services and or may be referred by physicians or family members. In the event of $956 million. More than 75 percent of the 5,000 other specialty inpatient and outpatient programs. Remodeling of life-threatening behavioral health emergencies, patients will construction workers are North County residents.
10 MAY – AUGUST 2012 www.PalomarHealth.org For a physician referral, or to register for a class, call The HealthSource at 800.628.2880. 11 Visit www.PalomarHealth.org to learn about the comprehensive outpatient services available there. KEY DATES in Creating the Health System of the Future More is planned: • Construction will begin this summer on a new 7,600-square- foot outpatient medical center in Ramona. Scheduled to open 2004 2005 2007 2012 2013 in 2013, it will feature Arch Health Partners physician offices and NOVEMBER June DECEMBER 4 APRIL 5 FEBRUARY* urgent care, plus outpatient diagnostic testing. Proposition BB passed Purchased land for the Groundbreaking for the new Temporary Certificate of Grand Re-Opening Pomerado Hospital Continues to Grow with nearly 70 percent of Rancho Peñasquitos Palomar Medical Center Occupancy granted for Celebration of Palomar • In 2010, the San Diego City Council approved plans for an district residents in favor of outpatient satellite center the new Palomar Medical Health Downtown Campus Fresh from celebrating 35 years of health excellence, Pomerado outpatient satellite center in Rancho Peñasquitos. Construction creating the Hospital of the Center 2008 APRIL* Hospital is embarking on a future by renewing its commitment Future 2006 plans will be announced in a future issue of The HealthSource. JUNE 20* to providing health services that meet the changing needs of a FEBRUARY Tentative opening of the • Proposition BB Ramona Ambulatory Care new Ramona Ambulatory growing community. FEBRUARY authorized financing Opening of the Pomerado Center Groundbreaking Care Center. for the planning and Unanimous approval by Outpatient Pavilion and the This summer, construction will begin on the pedestrian bridge that construction of a the Escondido City Council Jean McLaughlin Women’s JULY 9* JULY* preeminent health to locate the new Palomar Center for Health and will connect the hospital with the Pomerado Outpatient Pavilion FACILITY SERVICES Palomar Medical Center Completion of the system that integrates Medical Center in the Healing that houses the Jean McLaughlin Women’s Center for Health and Certificate of Occupancy new pedestrian bridge (effective August 19, 2012) the best ideas for serving Escondido Research and granted for patient care connecting Pomerado Healing, Arch Health Partners Urgent Care and medical offices, the the health-care needs Technology Center (ERTC) 2010 Hospital to Pomerado Center for Integrative Medicine, other physician offices and state-of- Palomar Health Downtown Campus well into the 21st century March 21 JULY 28* Outpatient Pavilion the-art diagnostic services, along with the nearby parking structure. 555 East Valley Parkway, Escondido, CA 92025 • Before putting SEPTEMBER Pomerado Outpatient Palomar Medical Proposition BB to a vote, • Labor & Delivery • Radiation Therapy Pavilion groundbreaking Topping Off Ceremony for Center Grand Opening “Patients and visitors will appreciate the convenience of the Palomar Health hosted • Urgent Care Center • Occupational, Physical & the new Palomar Medical Celebration bridge that improves access between these important services more than 200 town Center • Rady Pediatrics & Neonatal Speech Therapy halls attended by more AUGUST 19* when it opens at the end of 2013,” says Tam. than 2,500 individuals The new Palomar Medical Intensive Care Unit • Cardiac Rehabilitation Palomar Medical Center to discuss ideas for the Center reaches 55% Opening Day The pedestrian bridge is the latest addition to Pomerado Hospital, • Behavioral Health • Women’s Outpatient future of health care completion part of a master plan to assure that the hospital continues to serve (Crisis & Inpatient) Services *Dates subject to change due to construction schedule and regulatory approvals the community in meaningful and lasting ways. • Acute Rehabilitation • Perinatal Services OUTPATIENT SERVICES • Neurodiagnostic Testing “Improvements at Pomerado Hospital have been an • Sleep Center integral component of realizing the vision of the • Ambulatory Surgery PALOMAR HEALTH: • Pulmonary Testing Health System of the Future,” Tam says. “For • GYN Surgery • Laboratory example, Pomerado Hospital has achieved national • Infusion Center A New Name for a New Era in the Future of Health Care recognition as a Bariatric Center of Excellence. • Stereotactic Radiosurgery • Imaging When the 125,000 square-foot Pomerado Outpatient Pavilion Welcome to Palomar Health. The comprehensive rebranding strategy includes renaming two of opened in 2007, the community recognized that we are committed New Palomar Medical Center the three acute care hospitals within Palomar Health: to creating healing environments that meet the demands of 2185 Citracado Parkway, Escondido, CA 92029 It’s the new name for the Health System of the • Palomar Medical Center – The new 780,000-square-foot advancing technologies and growing community needs.” Future. Short, strong and iconic. • Emergency Services • Interventional Radiology hospital scheduled to open in August. • Trauma Services • Rehabilitation Services The spa-like Jean McLaughlin Women’s Center for Health and “We are transforming as an organization, with • Palomar Health Downtown Campus – The remodeled facility Healing, designated a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by • Surgery & Procedure • Medical Oncology the opening of the new Palomar Medical Center will emphasize the names of specific services that are located the American College of Radiology, offers an array of advanced Services • GYN Oncology Surgery in August,” says Gustavo Friederichsen, chief there, including a Palomar Women’s and Children’s Center, imaging capabilities and educational resources. A specialized • Cardiology & Cardiac OUTPATIENT SERVICES marketing officer. “At the same time, it became Catheterization clear that there has been confusion about the Behavioral Health Center, Acute Rehab and Urgent Care Center. breast surgeon works with an experienced team of dedicated • Pulmonary Testing • Vascular Services use of Palomar Pomerado Health or PPH.” breast health nurse navigators, radiologists, nurses and • Laboratory • Pomerado Hospital – The Poway facility, known for its resort- mammography technicians to provide comprehensive services • Orthopaedics • Imaging “About two years ago we started exploring a name change, after like setting, will retain its distinctive name. and compassionate expertise. • Neuroscience Services marketing research studies showed that the community believed The name change and new logo will be implemented in a cost- the previous name, Palomar Pomerado Health, was too long Other services available here include perinatal testing, lactation Pomerado Hospital effective way over time to minimize waste of materials printed with and too difficult to say or remember,” Friederichsen says. “Most consultation, bone density testing and the Women’s Health 15615 Pomerado Road, Poway, CA 92064 the previous name. The new logo is simple and easy to identify people were already saying Palomar Health and we took that as Connection Boutique. • Emergency Services OUTPATIENT SERVICES with through the intertwining of the letters “P” and “H” from the a cue that it was time to adopt a shorter name that resonates shortened name. • Labor & Delivery • Surgical Weight Loss throughout the communities we serve.” Bringing Outpatient Services • Neonatal Intensive Care Program “Our mission to heal, comfort and promote health within all the Unit (NICU) • Pulmonary Testing The new name for the 800-square-mile health system serving Inland Closer to Communities communities we serve remains strong,” says Michael H. Covert, • Cardiology & Vascular • Laboratory North County and southern Riverside County is synonymous with Over the past five years, Palomar Health has expanded FACHE, president and chief executive officer. “In no way should Services timeless geographic features (Palomar Mountain) and respected access to outpatient health services with the addition of walk- • Imaging our new name be misinterpreted as a move to disassociate from • Gero-Psychiatry local entities (Palomar College, Palomar Water and Palomar in expresscare centers (see related article on page 20) and • Occupational, Physical & Pomerado Hospital in Poway. In fact, we will be announcing plans for Observatory). expanded services at the San Marcos Ambulatory Care Center. • Behavioral Health Speech Therapy service enhancements at Pomerado Hospital in the near future.” • Rehabilitation Services
12 MAY – AUGUST 2012 www.PalomarHealth.org For a physician referral, or to register for a class, call The HealthSource at 800.628.2880. 13 HOUSE CALLS Healththe Source Blood Pressure by the Restless Sleep Classes Richard J. Schumann, Jr., M.D. In partnership with OASIS, a national education organization dedicated to enriching the lives of mature adults, Palomar Health is offering a Numbers wide variety of health classes during May – August. See this issue of Prevention Plus (center fold) for more classes designed for all ages. Neurologist Rebecca Samuels, D.O. Pacific Center for Neurological Disease OASIS – ESCONDIDO OASIS – POWAY OASIS – SAN MARCOS Internist Escondido Joslyn Senior Center North County Inland Adult Center San Marcos Senior Center Palomar Medical Group 210 E. Park Avenue Temple Adat Shalom 111 Richmar Avenue At my last check-up, I was found to have borderline I’m a 56-year-old man and lately I feel like, no matter Escondido, CA 92025 15905 Pomerado Road San Marcos, CA 92069 high blood pressure. I’m not sure what the numbers how early I go to bed, I just never feel rested. I’m always Poway, CA 92064 mean. Should I worry? What can I do? tired, and it’s starting to affect my mood, as well as how To register for classes, call OASIS at 760.796.6020. The fee to attend is $5/participant unless otherwise noted. Q QI function at work. Why can’t I get enough sleep? It is well known that high blood pressure, or hypertension, increases the risk of heart attack, stroke and other serious medical conditions. If lack of sleep is impeding your life in any way, it’s wise to seek Summertime Nutrition All About Cholesterol Today, physicians are interested in identifying pre-hypertension, with help. Sleep is a very basic human need that helps our bodies OASIS – Escondido OASIS – Poway Athe goal of helping patients manage their blood pressure within a repair and rejuvenate. Good sleep provides beneficial rest for the Wednesday, May 23 10:30 a.m. – Noon Wednesday, August 15 1 – 2:30 p.m. healthy range before serious complications develop. cardiovascular system, helps improve learning and memory and Finding time to eat healthy foods during busy When it comes to cholesterol, knowing your numbers and how A summer schedules can be a challenge, but with good to improve them is key to good health. Join Luanne Arangio- contributes to overall good health. Blood pressure is a reliable indicator of coronary vascular health planning and preparation, you can maintain a healthy Law, R.N., M.Ed., as she explores the pitfalls of “bad” cholesterol Halle Elbling and measures the force exerted by circulating blood upon the Sleep is an innate drive for people – just like hunger, thirst or diet. Join Registered Dietitian as she discusses how (LDL) and the benefits of “good” cholesterol (HDL). to optimize flavor and maximize nutrition. Take home some fun walls of blood vessels. There are two numbers associated with sex drive. When we don’t get enough sleep, stress hormones are recipes too. The Link: Diabetes & Heart Disease a blood pressure reading: systolic, which is the pressure exerted released in our body. OASIS – San Marcos on vessels when the heart contracts, and diastolic, which is the ABCs of Lungs & Breathing Thursday, June 21 10:30 a.m. – Noon The two main types of sleep are rapid-eye movement (REM) pressure exerted on vessels when the heart is relaxed. A blood OASIS – Escondido People with diabetes have a higher-than-average risk of having pressure reading of 120 over 80 means the systolic measure is sleep, which is dream sleep, and non-REM sleep. Deep sleep Wednesday, July 11 10:30 a.m. – Noon a heart attack or stroke. Join Halle Elbling, RD, CDE, as she 120, while the diastolic measure is 80. restores the body, while REM sleep renews the mind. How well From lung anatomy and common diseases to discusses taking care of your diabetes, the conditions that come rested we feel depends on how much sleep we get and our ability respiratory emergencies and treatment options with it and how you can help lower your chances of heart disease. In the past, physicians believed that healthy blood pressure to complete sleep cycles. Most adults should get at least six to – join Luanne Arangio-Law, R.N., M.Ed., as she measured less than 140/90. Today, we define pre-hypertension as seven hours of sleep every 24 hours. guides you through this basic and easy-to-understand discussion Nutrition for Brain Power: Nutrition and Aging about breathing and the lungs. blood pressure of 120/80 up to 139/89. An average of two or more OASIS – San Marcos Wednesday, August 8 10:30 a.m. – Noon blood pressure readings, taken at two or more separate office visits, Sleep may be interrupted temporarily by a snoring partner, Hearing Loss & Emerging Technologies that are greater than 140/80 indicate that you have hypertension. needing to use the bathroom, certain medications or noise. Healthy brain cells depend on an adequate supply of nutrients OASIS – Escondido Halle Elbling, RD, CDE Medical conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea, chronic pain in your diet. Join , to learn more on how Your physician will provide recommendations for your ideal blood Thursday, July 12 10:30 a.m. – Noon to live well as you age and how to eat smart for a healthier brain. pressure based on your personal health history. or restless leg syndrome often result in long-term sleep disruption. Hearing loss is an ever-increasing problem in today’s Of these, obstructive sleep apnea is the most serious and may society, even among young people. The demand If you are diagnosed with hypertension, I recommend monitoring increase the risk of high blood pressure, stroke or heart failure. has resulted in devices of highly functional quality. Exercise Classes and recording blood pressure over several weeks to become familiar Join David Illich, Au.D., as he discusses the latest hearing devices with your numbers, as well as to assess your response to medication. Because there are many root causes of and types of sleep disorders, available on today’s market. Get Fit and Stay Strong a thorough evaluation is the first step to finding a solution that may This should be done at different times each day when you are seated Pain Management OASIS – Redwood Town Ct., 500 E. Valley Pkwy., Escondido and relaxed, with a bare arm and at heart level. work for you. The most definitive way to diagnose sleep apnea is OASIS – Poway Mondays & Thursdays 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. during an overnight evaluation in Palomar Health’s Sleep Lab. Tuesday, May 15 1 – 2:30 p.m. This fitness class uses bands, weights and the stability ball to Being overweight or obese, smoking, excessive intake of calories, salt increase your bone density, core strength, endurance and balance. Pain attacks the human body at every vulnerable and alcohol, as well as aging, may increase your risk for developing To learn more, visit www.PalomarHealth.org/sleeplab. target – muscles, bones, and joints. Acute pain can May 7 – 31 FEE: $40 for 8 classes hypertension. It has been estimated that obesity accounts for as last a moment, while chronic pain persists for long June 4 – 28 FEE: $40 for 8 classes much as 60 percent of new cases of hypertension. Restless Sleep periods. Join pain specialist Tim Chong, M.D., as he discusses pain July 2 – 30 FEE: $45 for 9 classes management – from cause and proper diagnosis to treatment and Making small changes, such as losing just 10 percent of your total coping. Chair Fitness body weight can help lower blood pressure as well as improve Tired of Being Tired? Pomerado Outpatient Pavilion, Education Classroom OASIS – 210 E. Park Ave., Escondido cholesterol and blood sugar levels in overweight individuals. Leg Pain Wednesdays 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. Thursday, May 24 6 – 7:30 p.m. OASIS – Poway OASIS – Escondido Prescription medications, along with diet and exercise, help manage Chair exercises can increase your strength, vitality and balance – Many adults have trouble sleeping at some time in their lives. Wednesday, June 6 Wednesday, August 22 high blood pressure. perfect for anyone who has trouble standing for long periods of time. Join Richard Schumann, M.D., as he discusses warning signs 1 – 2:30 p.m. 10:30 a.m. – Noon and treatment options for many common sleep disorders. Causes of leg pain can vary significantly with each individual. Join May 2 – 30 FEE: $25 for 5 classes June 6 – 27 FEE: $20 for 4 classes FREE Blood Pressure Screenings FEE: Free – registration required Luanne Arangio-Law, R.N., M.Ed., as she discusses causes and Noon – 2 p.m. symptoms of leg pain and when to seek medical attention for July 11 – 25 FEE: $15 for 3 classes To register, call 800.628.2880 or visit proper diagnosis and treatment. Palomar Medical Center Lobby, 1st Friday of each month www.PalomarHealth.org/classes. NOTE: There will be no exercise classes in the month of August. Pomerado Hospital Lobby, 2nd Tuesday of each month
14 MAY – AUGUST 2012 www.PalomarHealth.org For a physician referral, or to register for a class, call The HealthSource at 800.628.2880. 15 SAVING LIMBS A Team Approach at Palomar Health’s Wound Care Centers Treats and Heals Stubborn Non-Healing Wounds Deke and Olga Read Carol's blog at PalomarHealth.org/carol. Houlgate CHRONIC PAIN Bill Walton is a pretty tough guy. His It is very common for these feelings to actually aggravate pain. It’s Palomar Health’s Wound Care Centers are recognized nationally “Our mission is to provide an environment conducive numerous NBA records rank him among the not your fault. It’s the miserable cycle of pain causing emotional for a multi-disciplinary approach to treating non-healing wounds to the diagnosis and effective management of best in the history of professional basketball. reactions, which in turn, increases the pain. by addressing a variety of underlying medical conditions such as chronic wounds and conditions,” says Roger But even a world-class athlete has his limits. diabetes and peripheral arterial disease that cause wounds to Schechter, M.D., director of Palomar Health’s Wound The good news? That “cycle” can be broken. The ActivCentre resist healing over time. Improving circulation and healing these Care Centers. Lying face down on his kitchen floor, the only for Spine Care at Palomar Health offers comprehensive evaluation wounds, with the goal of restoring health and saving limbs – from position in which the basketball great could and treatment for chronic pain that’s brought relief to many, like toes to feet and legs – is focused on because amputation is an The multi-disciplinary team includes physicians who are certified as find relief from his excruciating pain, the Bill Walton, who had lost hope. extreme option that causes stress on the body and can lead to wound care specialists and are also board-certified in hyperbaric affable Bill Walton admitted to a newspaper other complications. medicine, plastic surgeons, vascular surgeons, infectious disease reporter his searing back pain was so severe, he’d thought about It can happen to anyone. I know. Complications from foot surgery specialists and podiatrists who work with diabetes educators and ending his life. That was several years ago. Fortunately, Walton several years ago left me in non-stop pain for months. The knife- One such patient who benefited from Palomar Health’s Wound a highly specialized team of nurses and technologists. eventually received treatment that alleviated his suffering. Today, like nerve pain wouldn’t let up, robbing me of my motivation and Care Centers’ team approach and emphasis on healthy circulation his spirit renewed, Walton flashes his million-dollar smile all over joy. Fortunately, I got help and today my foot pain is tolerable is Carlsbad resident Deke Houlgate, 81. A long-time recreational “Our statistics for successful healing are in the upper 90th town at the many community and charitable events he supports. and life is good. Don’t let chronic pain take away your joy. runner, with a 10K personal record of 49 minutes, 40 seconds, percentiles,” says Dr. Schechter. “Many patients across the country – Carol LeBeau Deke ran an average of 35 miles each week until serious circulatory who have threatened limb loss do not get a proper diagnosis before If you’ve never experienced chronic pain, it may be difficult to complications forced him to retire his running shoes. having an amputation. Palomar Health Wound Care Centers offer understand Walton’s extreme reaction. But it probably comes as a customized patient experience, based on a very comprehensive no surprise to those of you who know the agony of pain that never Deke suffers from high blood pressure and is a borderline diabetic. diagnosis for each patient’s individual care needs.” ends. Fact is, an emotional reaction to ongoing pain is normal. When these medical conditions blocked blood circulation in his Because our bodies and minds are inextricably linked, emotions legs, Deke had angioplasty procedures to open clogged arteries “We look at the whole person and any underlying conditions the and pain can also go hand in hand. and restore blood flow. patient is facing,” Dr. Schecter says. “Then, we address the patient’s circulatory issues, and work hand-in-hand with vascular surgeons Medical professionals, understandably, focus their attention and “When Deke needed to have a second angioplasty to optimize every patient’s circulation in order to save their limbs. treatments on the medical factors that cause pain. However, this for the right leg, along with a skin graft of the calf, We also follow evidence-based protocols to maximize healing and focus can miss emotional issues that can increase the amount of we became concerned about complications and create the greatest opportunity for preventing limb loss.” pain a person feels. thought his right leg might need to be amputated,” says his wife, Olga. “However, Dr. Anatoly Bulkin, “The staff at the Wound Care Center is simply incredible,” says What’s needed, according to Peter Sidlauskas, M.D., a our vascular surgeon, wouldn’t give up. He recommended Olga. “It was very emotional when we said our final goodbyes psychologist affiliated with Palomar Health, is recognition of these additional treatment, including outpatient care at the Wound and thank yous.” emotional factors in the evaluation of a person in pain. Treatment Care Center to help promote better circulation.” can then be designed to treat these issues. “In doing so,” says Dr. Today, Deke has returned to walking and is working on gradually Sidlauskas, “the vicious cycle of chronic pain can be recognized Deke received comprehensive treatment at the Wound Care increasing his distance over scenic routes from the Flower Fields and broken.” Center including Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. This is an of Carlsbad to the beach. Beat Back Pain adjunctive treatment in which the patient breathes 100% oxygen “We are so grateful,” Deke says. “It’s truly a team effort and they The most common emotional reactions to chronic pain include: Palomar Health Downtown, Graybill Auditorium while enclosed in a pressurized chamber of greater-than-normal Wednesday, May 23 6 – 7:30 p.m. did everything they could to prevent the loss of my leg. Because ■■ Sadness atmospheric pressure. By breathing pure oxygen, the patient’s of them, I am out walking and enjoying life again.” Thursday, July 12 6 – 7:30 p.m. blood plasma becomes saturated, carrying 15 to 20 times the ■■ Anger Back and neck pain affect a large majority of Americans at normal amount of oxygen to the body’s tissues. This promotes ■■ Depression For more information, visit www.PalomarHealth.org/wound. some point in their lives. Join orthopaedic surgeons from the body’s natural wound-healing mechanisms. ■■ Frustration San Diego Spine Institute for a discussion on causes, proper ■■ Anxiety diagnosis and the latest treatment options for back pain relief. Pomerado Wound Care Center Palomar Wound Care Center ■■ Tension FEE: Free – registration required Pomerado Outpatient Pavilion Palomar Health at San Marcos ■■ Irritability To register, call 800.628.2880 or visit www.PalomarHealth.org/classes. 15611 Pomerado Road, Suite 200 | Poway, CA 92064 120 Craven Road, Suite 105 | San Marcos, CA 92078 858.613.6255 760. 510.7300 Call the ActivCentre at Palomar Health for help or a referral at 858.613.6252.
16 MAY – AUGUST 2012 www.PalomarHealth.org For a physician referral, or to register for a class, call The HealthSource at 800.628.2880. 17 PALOMAR MEDICAL CENTER’S ORTHOPAEDIC PROGRAM Designated an Aetna Institute of Quality
The orthopaedic continuum of care for joint replacement patients Laura Savinovich (left) hikes Yosemite with her daughter starts before hospitalization with patient education and supports two months after minimally invasive neurosurgery. the patient throughout hospital care and surgery. Personalized home health care and outpatient physical therapy is provided as needed throughout the rehabilitation stage of recovery. Nurse Navigator Helps Patients Get Prompt Treatment “Our established process has now been recognized by Aetna Aetna, one of the largest health insurance companies in California, for its quality as measured by fewer patient complications, has designated Palomar Medical Center (PMC) as an Aetna Institute improved long-term results, shorter hospital stays and better Two months after minimally invasive neurosurgery at Palomar dietitians), and rehabilitation specialists (physical therapy and of Quality Orthopaedic Care Facility for total joint replacement. patient satisfaction,” Dr. Knutson says. “We are fortunate that Medical Center to remove a large cyst from the base of her spine, occupational therapy). our continuum of care includes Palomar Health’s Home Health Laura Savinovich went hiking in Yosemite with her daughter Sasha. The two-year designation was granted following a review of services and Outpatient Rehabilitation services, which help With 24 years of nursing experience, including 17 years working PMC’s orthopaedic patient outcomes and quality care measures. patients continue their recovery and rehabilitation until they have “Last June, I noticed leg pain and thought it was related to with orthopaedic, neurosurgery and trauma patients, Nagy brings achieved their full potential for restored ability.” my rheumatoid arthritis,” Laura says. “When the pain began extensive experience to her role as nurse navigator. “We have always worked to provide the highest quality of going down my leg and my foot became numb, I became really care, focused on helping our orthopaedic patients recover and PMC is the only medical center in San Diego County to receive concerned that it might be something serious. I called my primary As a nurse navigator, Nagy assists each patient as a personal rehabilitate smoothly and quickly,” says Thomas Knutson, M.D., this designation from Aetna. The orthopaedic program will be care doctor and insurance company for referral to someone who advocate to schedule appointments, communicate with the orthopaedic surgeon. “The entire orthopaedic team is committed carrying the Aetna stamp of approval with it when it relocates this could diagnose and treat the problem.” primary care physician and coordinate advanced diagnostic tests, to a common goal of implementing the clinical standards that are summer to the new Palomar Medical Center in west Escondido treatments and therapy without delay. Throughout care, she is known to minimize complications and improve patient-care results. that is scheduled to open in August. Aetna is committed to “It was a frustrating month of going here and there, without available to answer questions, provide additional resources and Everyone – orthopaedic nurses, physical therapists, occupational recognizing facilities with distinguished performance to help getting the help I felt I needed,” Laura says. “My symptoms serve as a liaison with the ActivCentre care team. therapists, surgeons – contributes their expertise to provide a members make informed choices by providing access to high- worsened because the cyst was growing, so I was becoming coordinated approach to joint replacement and recovery.” quality, cost-effective care. more concerned about getting the right help, and fast. Then, my “Nurse Nagy took care of everything, contacting my doctor, daughter told me about Palomar Health’s new ActivCentre.” getting insurance approval and scheduling my first appointment,” Laura says. “She helped me through a very stressful time.” Laura contacted Jo Ann Nagy, R.N., B.S.N., the ActivCentre nurse navigator, who listened to her “When I first met with Dr. Stern, he listened to all my symptoms and Women’s Health Connection “with genuine interest and caring.” That same day, concerns and then explained the mechanics of my diagnosis and OUTIQUE AND ESOURCE ENTER Nagy consulted with Keyvan Esmaeili, M.D., every option available,” Laura says. “In short, Dr. Stern and his staff B R C medical director of Palomar Health’s Acute made me feel as if my best interest was their genuine concern.” Rehabilitation Services, and he recommended Dr. Stern and a neurosurgical team performed a partial referring Laura to a neurosurgeon for evaluation. Nagy called The Women’s Health Connection Boutique is more than just a store; we’re also a learning center – laminectomy to remove the cyst on August 23, 2011. Laura had Laura’s primary care physician and obtained a referral to expected to be in the hospital for two days, but the surgery went a place to find the most trusted source of health information, products and support. neurosurgeon Mark Stern, M.D., who examined Laura within so well Dr. Stern discharged her that day. three days. Boutique Products Join us in our warm, welcoming setting and discover the “I was able to walk and move fairly well right after surgery, though difference that the Women’s Health Connection Boutique and Located in Pomerado Outpatient Pavilion in Poway, the ActivCentre • Unique gifts for the new mom and baby I moved a bit slower. As I gained confidence that everything was Resource Center can make for you. utilizes an integrated approach to treating neck and back pain by • Developmental toys for newborns and babies alright, I started doing more,” Laura says. “Within a couple of ® ® providing convenient, centralized access to advanced diagnostic • Medela Symphony breast pumps for rent and Medela weeks, I was back to somewhat normal activities and feeling great.” Freestyle Hands Free and Pump In Style Advanced breast Monday – Friday: 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. tests, and streamlining necessary tests and other appointments. pumps for sale Non-surgical treatment includes outpatient rehabilitation, core Don’t let back or neck pain take over your life. Visit Pomerado Outpatient Pavilion (behind Pomerado Hospital) • Newborn scales for rent strengthening and flexibility training, spinal injections, medical www.PalomarHealth.org/ActivCentre or call 858.613.6252. 15611 Pomerado Rd., First Floor, Poway, CA 92064 858.613.6110 • Breastfeeding accessories, nursing bras, and specialized management, pain management, psychological services, Nurse Nagy will act as your personal patient advocate and help supplies integrative therapies and nutrition counseling. Advanced surgical guide you through the treatment options that are right for you. • NEW – A variety of cloth diapers with personalized options include minimally invasive neurosurgery and spine surgery. instruction available THANK YOU for coming to visit us. The ActivCentre medical team includes neurosurgeons, orthopaedic Specialized Services Please enjoy 15% OFF your first purchase. spine surgeons, neurologists, interventional radiologists, pain Expires 12/31/12. Coupon code: HS512 management specialists, physiatrists, psychiatrists, integrative • A Board-Certified Lactation Consultant provides personalized medicine specialists (acupuncturists, massage therapists, support in our comfortable consultation room or at your home • Free latch and weight checks • Free breastfeeding support groups www.PalomarHealth.org/ActivCentre 858.613.6252 FREE • Referrals, parenting resources, education and information, Visit or call to take advantage of your consultation today! and a parent lending library
18 MAY – AUGUST 2012 www.PalomarHealth.org For a physician referral, or to register for a class, call The HealthSource at 800.628.2880. 19 Rolls Out a Summer of Specials
is proud to present the following specials this summer: Following Rare Tumor Removal MAY: Take Shape for Life JULY: Teen Health Month Tune up for summer with “Take Shape for Life,” Stop by for a combined sports physical and acne San Marcos resident Peter LaCarte was shocked earlier this year to computer-generated tumor mapping and a offered locally by evaluation, with prescription treatment if needed, a learn the cause of blindness in his left eye and vision loss in his right team of skilled surgeons using microsurgical health centers and Medifast®. Sign up in May and $30-$62 savings. eye wasn’t related to aging, but rather to something more serious. instruments to remove the tumor through a receive a free water bottle, BMI (body mass index) very small opening in the nasal cavity. test and pedometer to track exercise progress. As his vision deteriorated significantly over a three- month period, Peter grew more concerned. He was “The beauty of using intra-operative imaging Participants receive free medically supervised health AUGUST: Discounted Vaccines referred to Mark Stern, M.D., a board-certified is that it allows us to see detailed images of coaching to help them achieve their weight loss goals. The College bound? Planning an overseas vacation? neurosurgeon, who ordered an MRI of Peter’s brain. extremely tiny tumors as small as the size of a nutritionally balanced Medifast meals can be ordered through Not sure if your vaccinations are up to date? and delivered to your home. nurse practitioners This advanced imaging study helped determine that tip of a safety pin,” Dr. Stern says. “This gives can help you determine if you need new or booster Peter was suffering from hyper-pituitary syndrome caused by a us a tremendous advantage when performing JUNE: Blood Pressure and Summer Safety vaccines. Vaccinations are available at affordable prices and large tumor on his pituitary gland. Located at the base of the brain such intricate surgeries.” appointments are never needed to see one of the nationally board- and normally the size of a pea, the pituitary gland is often called the Visit any location certified nurse practitioners. “master gland” because it helps regulate the activities of the “Although Peter’s tumor was large, we were able to for a free blood pressure check and to learn how to endocrine system. use a minimally invasive endoscopic approach for control blood pressure for overall health benefits. reaching it and removing it with the assistance of this All visitors will receive a free lip balm, because lips “Most pituitary tumors are not cancerous, but as they grow in size sophisticated navigation system,” says Patrick need protection, too! they may put pressure on important nerves and blood vessels,” Fitzgerald, M.D., a board-certified otolaryngologist says Dr. Stern. “In Peter’s case, the tumor was pressing on the affiliated with Arch Health Partners. He regularly performs the trans- optic nerve and causing the dramatic loss of vision. I advised nasal endoscopic approach for these types of surgeries. Learn more at www.PalomarHealth.org/expresscare and download a $10 coupon to use toward any sick visits at . prompt removal of the tumor because it was increasing the risk of permanent blindness, stroke or even death.” Less than three hours later, the surgery was over. That night, Peter was recuperating in Palomar Medical Center’s Intensive Care Unit Some pituitary tumors can be removed using stereotactic with his wife Angie at his bedside. TWO NEW LOCATIONS! radiosurgery. In Peter’s case, Dr. Stern recommended an advanced “Peter was complaining that more than 45 minutes had gone by Temecula and San Elijo Hills (Inside select Albertsons/Sav-on Pharmacy locations) neurosurgical procedure that combines state-of-the-art surgical technology with a three-dimensional intra-operative imaging since his last serving of ice chips,” Angie recalls. “I wondered how he knew the time and suddenly realized that he was able to see again!” NOW COMING device. According to Dr. Stern, Palomar Health uses this hybrid TEMECULA OPEN! SAN ELIJO HILLS SOON! technology more than any other hospital in San Diego County. “The surgery was a complete success and Peter came home two 30530 Rancho California Rd. 1571 San Elijo Rd. South days later,” she says. “Everything happened just the way the Temecula, CA 92591 San Marcos, CA 92078 Surgery at Palomar Medical Center was a highly orchestrated event involving high-resolution computerized brain imaging, doctors told us it would. We couldn’t be happier.”
• Receive treatment for sore throats, earaches, sinus infections, pink eye, skin conditions, minor injuries, school/sports/camp For more information, or for details on how to obtain a second opinion, visit www.PalomarHealth.org/pituitary. physicals and select vaccines. • Services provided by Palomar Health Certified Family Nurse Practitioners for patients two years and older. • No appointment necessary. • Most visits average 20 minutes. FIND A DOCTOR • Most services average $62. 800.628.2880 | www.PalomarHealth.org/doctor • No insurance required (select insurance plans accepted). The Palomar Health Philips Lifeline Medical Alert Service is For more information, stop by one of our health centers in Escondido, designed to summon help when a subscriber has a sudden illness Looking for a physician and don’t know where to start? Rancho Peñasquitos and Temecula or visit us at www.PalomarHealth.org/expresscare. or injury and is unable to get to a telephone to call for help. Simply At Palomar Health, we make it easy to find the doctor press the waterproof personal help button worn as a pendant or that’s right for you. Just call The HealthSource at on a wristband and within seconds you’ll be connected to a highly 800.628.2880, and one of our friendly representatives will trained Lifeline operator who can quickly summon the appropriate help you to select the doctor who best fits your needs. LOCATIONS (Inside select Albertsons/Sav-on Pharmacy locations) COMING help. For more information about Lifeline, call 858.675.5371 or Our more than 700 affiliated physicians are committed SOON! toll-free at 888.704.2774. to providing you and your family with top-quality clinical Rancho Peñasquitos Escondido Temecula San Elijo Hills 14340 Peñasquitos Dr. 1509 E. Valley Parkway 30530 Rancho California Rd. 1571 San Elijo Rd. South care in a caring environment. You can also visit us online at San Diego, CA 92129 Escondido, CA 92027 Temecula, CA 92591 San Marcos, CA 92078 FREE INSTALLATION: Call now and receive free installation www.PalomarHealth.org/doctor. For more information call 888.738.2452. through August 31, 2012. ($75 value)
20 MAY – AUGUST 2012 www.PalomarHealth.org For a physician referral, or to register for a class, call The HealthSource at 800.628.2880. 21 Share Your Energy – Celebrating Palomar Health Become a Palomar Health Volunteer. CAREGIVERS Volunteer. Your wisdom, passion and experience can be used in a meaningful, life-changing way. At Palomar Health, we respect your time and appreciate the generosity of our entire family of volunteers. To share your energy today, call 760.739.3081 or 858.613.4659 to register or visit www.PalomarHealth.org/volunteer This month, we celebrate the important contributions and for more information. compassionate care Palomar Health nurses are committed to • Caring, supportive environment providing with our observance of Nurses Week, May 6 – 12. • Flexible hours For years, patients have voiced their appreciation for the care they • Various opportunities and receive throughout the Palomar Health system. The quality and professionalism locations available of patient-centered nursing care at Palomar Health has been recognized and • With or without patient contact unanimously granted Magnet® status by the American Nurses Credentialing The Night of Nights gala, a special evening • New hospital opening Center (ANCC) – the world’s largest and most prestigious nurse credentialing unlike any other, celebrates the patient-centered organization and subsidiary of the American Nurses Association. Palomar Health care provided by our caregivers. Hosted by was the first health system in California to receive such a distinction. former San Diego Chargers running back and NFL MVP LaDainian Tomlinson and his wife, Grateful patients have also recognized Palomar Health physicians by making Torsha, the gala is a black-tie event that brings contributions in honor of National Doctors’ Day observed on March 30. together hundreds of Palomar Health supporters But did you know our nurses, physicians and caregivers do more than provide – many of whom are Palomar Health physicians. life-saving care? At Palomar Health, caregivers are among the most generous We celebrate our 2012 physician group sponsors “This is a great, fast-growing community and we are proud to Palomar Health and Arch Health Partners: individuals who support the organization by giving their time, effort and dollars of the Night of Nights gala, including: bring award-winning medical services to the residents,” says to the Palomar Health Foundation in support of the capital campaign for the Victoria Lister, FACHE, AHP chief executive officer. “Our family • Anesthesia Consultants of California new Palomar Medical Center. Bringing Primary Care practice physicians are experienced in caring for patients of all Medical Group, Inc. ages by providing attentive, knowledgeable services tailored to • California Emergency Physicians Closer to You each patient’s personal health-care needs.” MEDICAL STAFF CAMPAIGN America Beyond caring for our patients, many Palomar Health Primary health care is coming closer to residents of 4S Ranch and The first step in fulfilling a promise made to Ramona residents physicians have demonstrated a commitment to the future by • Escondido Cardiology Associates Urgent Care is closer to reality in Ramona, thanks to Arch Health will take place this summer with the groundbreaking of the new making a personal philanthropic investment in Palomar Health. Partners (AHP) and Palomar Health. • Hidden Valley Surgical Ramona Ambulatory Care Center. Arch Health Partners will To date, the medical community has generously contributed be the sole tenants of the new building, relocating from their • North County Radiology Medical By early July, residents of 4S Ranch will have primary medical nearly $3 million toward the $55 million Building Your current location on Main Street. Group, Inc. services available in their community for the first time. The Healthcare System of the Future capital campaign. Visit www.pphfoundation.org/medstaffgiving to learn more new medical offices, located at the intersection of Camino Del Construction for this new 7,600-square-foot outpatient medical • North County Women’s Specialists Norte and Dove Canyon Road, will open with two female family about the medical staff campaign. center is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2013. When • Rady Children’s Hospital & Children’s medicine physicians providing medical care throughout the it opens, the Ramona Ambulatory Care Center will feature Arch Specialists of San Diego week. Services will include X-ray and laboratory. AHP specialists, Health Partners Urgent Care, plus X-ray and laboratory services. CHAPEL CAMPAIGN including dermatologists, ear, nose and throat specialists, and A passionate and determined group of Palomar Health • Sharp Community Medical Group orthopedic surgeons, will be available at the 4S Ranch medical Arch Health Partners currently has primary care providers in employees, including a large number of various staff members • Valley Pathology Medical Associates, Inc. center on a rotating basis. Poway and San Marcos. and nurses throughout the organization, are leading the • X-Ray Medical Group Radiation charge to build a chapel in the new Palomar Medical Center. Oncology, Inc. (Lori A. Coleman, M.D. Stay informed about progress on these medical office locations atwww.PalomarHealth.org . With building costs doubling during construction, certain areas & P. Brian Volpp, M.D.) of the hospital had to be “shelled” until funds were raised.
4S Ranch Administration, employees and chaplain staff recognize the great need for this special place – not only for patients and their families – but also for Palomar Health staff and caregivers. To learn more about the gala, visit www.PalomarHealth.org/gala. Visit www.pphfoundation.org/chapelfund to learn how you can support the Ramona chapel fund.
22 MAY – AUGUST 2012 www.PalomarHealth.org For a physician referral, or to register for a class, call The HealthSource at 800.628.2880. 23 The HealthSource PRST STD U.S. POSTAGE 15255 Innovation Drive PAID San Diego, CA 92128 SAN DIEGO, CA PERMIT NO. The New Palomar 2838 Medical Center The New Palomar Medical Center
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