– EPIC UPDATE – KNOW (AND REPORT) what’s INSIDE – NEW LVPG PRACTICE YOUR NUMBERS NAMES – RECREATION PERKS

LVHNQUARTERLY

Winter 2015

INTRODUCING LVHN QUARTERLY your TO-DO LIST Welcome to the debut of LVHN Quarterly. LVHNWEEKLY It’s part of a communication transformation This is the new name of the email you receive that began thanks to colleague feedback. every Friday that provides links to the week’s 1. Attend the Colleague Forum on Last fall, more than 2,000 colleagues took a LVHN news stories. April 2 at 2 p.m. Search #Forum on survey and told us how they want to receive LVHN Daily for locations. Can’t attend? important news about LVHN. Based on those Watch a video of the forum on LVHN LVHNDAILY results, we now are delivering information Daily beginning April 6. This is the new name of what was “Mission about our health network to you in three ways: Central.” Go here for daily news, announce-

ments and updates. Access it from the 2. Have a Casual Conversation with LVHNQUARTERLY intranet (lvh.com) or by going directly to Dr. Nester. Search #Casual on LVHN This magazine will be mailed to colleagues’ Daily for the schedule. homes four times a year so you can read it at daily.LVHN.org on a health network computer. your convenience, like Felicia Pompa, RN (pic- It has a new look and many new features. tured). It contains news that is important to You can: 3. Complete the third quarter TLC you and information you can use to help make X Share photos (and captions) of things bundle by March 31. Click the TLC LVHN the best it can be. Here you’ll find: happening in your department icon on your SSO toolbar. X Cover: The big story of the quarter and X “Like” and share posts a to-do list containing things all colleagues X Search stories by catagory 4. Know your blood pressure should do in the months ahead and body mass index. Report your -Rick Martuscelli X Pages 2-3: The latest LVHN news and a numbers by June 30. Read more on page 5. Q&A to help you understand our strategy during this era of reform X Pages 4-5: A chart showing the status 5. Attend Epic’s Wave 2 training of our goals and stories about ways you LVHNDAILY if you are assigned. Training takes can help us achieve them place May-July (see page 2). X Pages 6-7: Details about our health plan, benefits, wellness programs, recre- When you see this, ational opportunities, discounts and other visit LVHN Daily things available to colleagues on the intranet for X Page 8: An inspiring story about a more information. colleague or team

THE EPIC TRANSFORMATION Feb. 18 was an epic day at LVHN. It was when another Epic-connected health care provider

we launched LVHN Epic, our new electronic in the United States. MyLVHN The Story of Your Health medical record (EMR) system, in more than Next: Wave 2 As a patient, you can utilize one of the 150 LVPG and LVHN ambulatory practice Wave 2 Go-Live for LVHN inpatient units is premier features of Epic: the MyChart® sites. This was Wave 1 Go-Live – the first of slated for Aug. 1. The LVHN Epic team is patient portal, which will be known here as multiple go-lives and optimizations for our testing inpatient modules and applications, MyLVHN. Activating your MyLVHN account will customized EMR. as well as installing larger monitors and other initially take place at an appointment with your Consistency across LVHN Epic-related equipment in our Lehigh and LVPG provider. After that, you can log on to your Northampton county hospitals. Wave 2 super Creating one integrated Epic system over the account at MyLVHN.org using your computer or users (1,000+) will attend training in May. coming year will provide information consis- smartphone. Whenever you have a question – Beginning in June, more than 9,000 inpatient tency and process standardization. With the whether it’s about a recent appointment, bill or colleagues will take training classes at LVHN– Wave 1 launch, each ambulatory colleague immunization – MyLVHN will allow you to access One City Center. – from front desk to provider to billing – now your information or securely message your follows standardized workflows while utilizing provider’s team. Need an appointment? You can screens and templates that look and feel fa- request that through the portal too. With miliar no matter which practice you’re in. And prepare for WAVE 2 MyLVHN, you’ll have access to your personal because everyone is utilizing the same LVHN May - Wave 2 super user training health information like never before, helping you Epic system, patient information can be June–July - Wave 2 end user training know and understand the story of your health. communicated seamlessly should a patient Aug. 1 - Wave 2 Go-Live -Jenn Fisher require care at another LVPG practice or even

NEW NAMES FOR LVPG PRACTICES In Case You Missed It will give our patients time to adjust and will help us to fully transition to our new identity. LVPG includes more than 1,000 providers, LVHNDAILY more than 140 practices and 45 specialties. Get details on these stories by searching It includes neonatal care to pediatrics, primary the corresponding hashtag (#). care including family and internal medicine and women’s health, through just about every X LVHN’s ACO joins Medicare Shared specialty and subspecialty you or someone Savings Program (#ACO) you care about may require. Recently LVPG expanded to include: We’re making it easier for community X Inpatient rehab facility coming to members to identify the practices affili- X Six new cardiologists who joined LVPG LVH–Cedar Crest (#Rehab) ated with Physician Group Cardiology–1250 Cedar Crest (LVPG). Each practice’s name now follows X VSAS Orthopaedics, with locations in X LVH–Muhlenberg named an Ebola a standard format: LVPG, followed by the Allentown and Bethlehem Treatment Center (#EbolaCenter) specialty, followed by the location. -Kyle Hardner These name changes also will help us as Get a list of practice names and learn LVHN and LVPG transition to the Epic elec- X Affiliation established with Pocono all about LVPG at LVHN.org/LVPG. tronic medical record system, ensuring our Medical Center cancer center (#Pocono) patients have continuity with and access to the story of their health. Learn about LVPG expansion These changes will be phased in, so you X Get free shipping on prescription may see communications that include a refills (#RxShipping) LVHNDAILY practice’s old name and its new name. This Search #LVPG for information about LVPG Cardiology and VSAS.

2 LEHIGH VALLEY HEALTH NETWORK HEALTH CARE TODAY Q&A WHY IT’S TIME FOR EPIC

Chief medical officer Tom Whalen, MD

Why are we investing in a How will this help our patients? How does Epic fit into Q new electronic medical Q Patients are the primary beneficiaries Q population health? record (EMR) system? of this new system. Epic will allow us to pro- As part of health care reform, we must The decision to select a new EMR system was vide better and more comprehensive care to provide value-based care, not volume-based initiated about five years ago. At that time, the people we serve because every provider care. Utilizing Epic’s population health tools there were concerns about the sustainability they work with at LVHN and LVPG will have and report-generating capabilities, we can of the GE systems we were using (the Cen- the benefit of knowing the same information. look at data from large groups of patients tricity suite). Additionally, we recognized that Tests won’t be repeated unnecessarily; and anticipate trends or plan for types of vital patient information wasn’t always ac- medication conflicts will be flagged; a care that will be needed in the future. We cessible across LVHN. You’ve heard the term patient’s overall health will be understood also can harness the power of information ‘information silos’ – that’s what happened as a whole, not just in parts found in one to identify patients who would benefit from a too frequently with patient information. We practice’s chart. team approach to their care. By helping those needed to find the best way to address these patients stay healthy and avoid complications, The other exciting part of using Epic is concerns. Led by chief information officer we encourage them to experience a better the patient portal: MyLVHN. Patients we care Harry Lukens, we embarked on a careful, quality of health, and as a health network for will have the option to enroll and access widely inclusive process to survey the major we will benefit by doing all we can to keep parts of their personal health record. They available systems. Epic was the overwhelming them healthy. will be able to request appointments, receive choice of our staff. reminders about appointments, communicate -Jenn Fisher With Epic, silos won’t exist. It is one chart with their provider’s care team and request for one patient. Since Feb. 18, all LVPG prac- help with prescription refills. It’s a consumer- tices and ambulatory sites are on the Epic friendly portal that will engage our patients platform. On Aug. 1, our hospital locations in in their health in a way we’ve not been able Allentown and Bethlehem will be too. In the to offer before. future, our Hazleton campus will be on the Epic system.

LVHN Quarterly | LVHN.ORG 3 ARE WE REACHING OUR GOALS?

WE’RE STRIVING TO ACHIEVE OUR GOALS RELATED TO THE TRIPLE AIM: BETTER HEALTH, BETTER CARE AND BETTER COST. HERE’S A LOOK AT WHERE WE STAND. Triple Aim

NetworkNetwtwork GGoal Year to Date

Keep the cost per Choice Plus member below our goal.

For 60% of colleagues to know and report their blood pressure and body mass index to employee health (As of Feb. 20, we’re on target: 38%)

Minimize preventable harm by reducing our risk-adjusted mortality index (which takes into account patient characteristics that increase or reduce the risk for dying in the hospital) and our risk-adjusted harm rate (which includes things such as infections, falls and pressure ulcers).

Minimize patient-related disruptions by reducing unplanned readmissions and low-risk C-sections, and increasing consults for patients who need palliative care.

Provide the best possible experience to achieve Press Ganey, HCAHPS and CAHPS score goals.

Increase the value of our care through preventive care and chronic disease management.

Keep the expense per patient encounter below our goal.

Green=Meeting our goal Red=Opportunity for improvement

Goal must be achieved at the end of fiscal year 2015 to earn a Shared Success Plan (SSP) bonus in October.

4 LEHIGH VALLEY HEALTH NETWORK ANSWERS TO YOUR TOP 5 QUESTIONS Know Your Numbers, our biometric Why is this part of our Is this a result of the screening program, is part of our “better 2 better health goal? 5 Affordable Care Act? health” goal, which we must achieve to Good health enhances your quality of life at Americans spend 19 cents of every dollar on earn a Shared Success Plan bonus home and work, which also helps us provide health care. One of the Affordable Care Act’s (see chart). Knowing your blood pressure quality care. We’re in a unique position to set goals is to lower health care costs. Knowing (BP) and body mass index (BMI) is important a healthy example for our community. When your numbers can help you avoid preventable because it helps identify your health risks. you’re healthy, you spend less on health care conditions, lower health care costs and live well. Plus, the aggregate health information and prevent unnecessary costs to our health -Sheila Caballero collected will help us create new programs plan (Choice Plus). and services to help you live well. Will my screening results get SCREENED Here are answers to commonly asked questions. 3 remain confidential? I submitted my BP and BMI to Yes. HIPAA guidelines require us to keep 1 Populytics when I did my health protected health information safe, secure LVHNDAILY and wellness assessment prior to and confidential. We take that responsibility Search #KnowYourNumbers to learn how to open enrollment. Does that count? seriously. get screened and submit your numbers. No. The information you submitted to Popu- Will I be penalized if my lytics is confidential. The results cannot be numbers are high? shared. To contribute to our goal, you must be 4 No. If your numbers are high, we hope you’ll screened by employee health, a health care take steps to address your health risks. provider, or at LVHN Fitness or Steel Fitness, and submit your results to employee health.

Physician communication video X Standardized communication boards ENGAGING Created to help physicians understand how - New boards installed in all inpatient rooms OUR PATIENTS communication impacts care quality in the - Highly visible place to share important hospital, the video: care notes and patient questions Engaging patients means inviting them X Features LVPG physicians X Admission orientation to partner in their care. We want them X Uses patient care scenarios to share tips - Pilot program on several to share their symptoms, learn about their and highlight communication benefits LVH–Muhlenberg units condition and ask questions when they don’t X Includes patient perspective and thoughts - Nurses encourage patients upon understand. Our role is to listen, explain and X Will be shown to all LVPG groups with admission to share, learn and ask keep them informed. hospital privileges - Process will be evaluated for possible Engagement: expansion network-wide X Leads to fewer errors and callbacks iRound X Reduces patient and family anxiety watch the VIDEO To ensure our engagement efforts are on X Lowers per-case costs track, we’re piloting a real-time hospital X Improves outcomes LVHNDAILY patient survey using iPads: X Creates better patient experiences X Patients are interviewed while still in Search #DoctorComm for our physician Engaging patients and giving them the best communication video. the hospital. possible experience will help us earn higher X Any concerns, including communication, can be immediately addressed. Press Ganey, HCAHPS and CAHPS scores, Care team tools which is part of our “better care” goal New tools are making patient engagement X Feedback also helps managers recognize (see chart). Here are three ways we’re making a priority: exceptional colleague performance. that happen. -Gerard Migliore

LVHN Quarterly | LVHN.ORG 5 download INFORMATION

Visit hr.lvh.org for the Culture of Wellness booklet.

LOSE WEIGHT WITH PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT Our Supportive Weight-Loss Program The program also is for people who want includes six months of counseling and to maintain or enhance their nutrition, or al- support from a dietitian like Joanie Troutman ter their body composition. While everyone’s (pictured), a behavioral health specialist and health and wellness challenges are unique, an exercise physiologist. Here is how these incorporating advice from a weight manage- professionals can help you: ment professional into your life can: X A dietitian will help structure a meal pro- X Give you more energy gram that includes smaller, more frequent X Improve your blood sugar meals with the right balance of nutrients. X Give you a new perspective on nutrition X A behavioral health specialist can and the resources and support to make identify your mental and emotional your goals attainable reasons for eating and suggest behavior -Sheila Caballero modifications. There is a growing body of evidence that proves strong links between the foods X An exercise physiologist will create schedule an APPOINTMENT we eat and our ability to maintain good a personalized fitness plan that can be health. But sorting through the clutter of done at home or in the gym. Call 610-402-CARE to register for our contradictory health studies can be confusing. For Choice Plus members, the cost Supportive Weight-Loss Program or to learn That’s where support from weight-loss of the program is reimbursed 100 about other weight management programs. experts – and our Culture of Wellness benefit percent through our $700 Culture of –can help. Wellness benefit.

CAFETERIA ‘MINDFUL LVHN Quarterly is a magazine for LVHN colleagues. MEAL DEAL’ EXPANDED The “Mindful Meal Deal,” a healthy daily Vice president, marketing and There’s another incentive to choose a Mindful public affairs hot entrée that’s been available at the Meal besides your wellness. The complete meal Susan Hoffman LVH–Cedar Crest, LVH–17th Street and earns you triple points (double points for any Director of LVH–Muhlenberg cafeterias, has been a la carte combination of sides) on your communications Pamela Riddell expanded to include a piece of fresh fruit Frequent Diner’s Card, where points are awarded Editorial manager (generally apple, orange or banana) and a for each dollar you spend in the cafeteria. With Kyle Hardner healthy milk product – skim, 1 percent or 500 points, you qualify for a $5 gift card. See a Editor lactose-free milk, as well as soy or almond cafeteria cashier about getting a card. Rick Martuscelli milk (which carries an additional charge). Creative manager At LVH–Cedar Crest, the Mindful Station is Teressa Colbaugh The Mindful Meal now mirrors the now where the ‘Mein Bowl’ (daily Asian-specific Designer “MyPlate” government initiative for a fare station) had been located. This prominent Michael Hess healthier America, which recommends location puts more focus on healthy choices and Photographer Rick Sweitzer healthy guidelines for a meal plate that is now called “Main Fare.” The Mindful Station Production assistant includes one-quarter protein, one-quarter also features fruits and vegetables from local Alane Mercer complex carbohydrates, one-half fruits and farms, which are very popular cafeteria items. vegetables, and low-fat milk. -Ted Williams

6 LEHIGH VALLEY HEALTH NETWORK THE RECREATION COMMITTEE HAS PERKS FOR YOU You could take advantage of big X Discount tickets to amusement parks and FAQs discounts on your monthly cellphone other entertainment venues How do I join the committee? bill just for being an LVHN colleague. X Restaurant discounts Email [email protected]. The committee These discounts – offered by four major cell- X Savings from local retailers, including meets monthly. phone companies – are one of several perks discounts on auto repairs, computers, Are credit cards accepted? you’ll find on our recreation committee’s jewelry, health care apparel/shoes, No. Cash and checks are accepted. intranet site. mattresses and more Can family and friends take advantage of X Discounts at local hotels and resorts discounts and events? access the SITE X Information about LVHN clubs and leagues Unless specified on the intranet site, family and (e.g., golf, bowling and volleyball) friends are welcome to join you at recreation Visit lvh.com. In the left column under committee events. Details for each discount “Colleague Resources,” click specify whether it applies only to colleagues or “Recreation Committee.” upcoming TRIPS if others can take advantage of them.

Walt Disney World -Ted Williams Here’s what else you’ll find: Oct. 11-15 X Tickets to shows and sporting events, Stay at Disney’s Pop Century Resort. including the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, Gourmet Shopping in NYC take a SURVEY Lehigh Valley Phantoms, May 31 76ers, and Visit the recreation committee site for Visit the recreation committee site and tell us information on these and other trips. which discounts, trips and events you want. X Day trips and multiple-night vacations

BECOME A BETTER HEALTH CARE CONSUMER Your choices: X ER – Get care for more serious illnesses X Primary care provider (PCP) – It’s always and injuries. your first option if your illness or injury - $50 co-pay for accident or medical isn’t an emergency. emergency, waived if admitted to the - $15 co-pay per visit (if you have the hospital (if you have the Choice Plus PPO Plan) Whenever you or a family member suffers Choice Plus PPO Plan and use a Choice - $200 co-pay for a non-accident or an illness or injury, you must decide the Plus physician during normal hours) nonmedical emergency, waived if admitted most appropriate place to go for care. (if you have the Choice Plus PPO Plan) The decision you make affects: find a DOCTOR If you have the Choice Plus HSA Plan, X You – Where you go determines your out- you pay 10 percent of the cost after your of-pocket expense and may determine how Visit LVHN.org/findadoc for profiles and deductible is met at all of these locations. long you wait for care. videos, or call 610-402-CARE. So, choosing the appropriate location with X Our patients – Going to the most appro- the lowest costs will save you dollars. piate place helps ensure colleagues can -Rick Martuscelli X ExpressCARE – Get care without an most efficiently care for you and our appointment every day of the year for other patients. common illnesses and minor injuries. learn where to go FOR CARE X Our health plan (Choice Plus) – Going to - $15 co-pay per visit (if you have the the most appropriate place helps to manage Choice Plus PPO Plan) plan costs. In fiscal year 2014, our health LVHNDAILY care claims costs were $126 million. Search #ExpressCARE for a list of locations.

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FOLLOW US TODAY! A PASSION FOR BETTER MEDICINE

(L-r) Meghan Hoffman, RN, and Dylan (born April 24); Karen Saunders and Micah (born April 25); Cassandra Christiansen, RN, and Caleb (born May 23); Emily Shirk, RN, and Cole (born June 10); Lynn Welliver, RN, and Brooke (born July 18); Gessenia Becker, RN, and Harrison (born July 29); Jazzy Diaz and Xavier (born Aug. 17); and Andrea Walsh, RN, and Ava (born Oct. 1); (not pictured) Xiomara Franco, RN, and Marco (born Aug. 6)

they would see another. They began to ask if Teamwork continues to be the key. All nine A BANNER YEAR everyone was pregnant here.” moms have been breast-feeding, and some FOR BABIES From late April until Oct. 1, colleagues were continue to take turns at a pumping station set delivering babies and taking their entitled 12 up on the unit to accommodate them during Baby booms in LVH–Cedar Crest’s labor weeks to tend to their newborns. Managing their shifts. “At LVHN, we promote and support and delivery unit are commonplace. But so many new moms at once began to create breast-feeding through immediate maternal/ the boom it experienced last year was a little scheduling problems for Karen Groves, RN, the neonatal bonding,” Shirk says. “Obviously we different. It involved the department staff. unit’s patient care manager. practice what we preach.” “We kept announcing pregnancies – one of “August and September were rough,” However, not everybody on the unit is in a us after another,” says Emily Shirk, RN, one of Groves says. “I created a pregnancy calendar rush to join the baby boom. “The rest of us seven nurses and two technical partners who to map out who would be out when. Every- thought maybe we should avoid drinking the delivered babies in 2014. “Patients would see body pitched in.” water around here,” Groves says. “Nine new one pregnant nurse, and then on the next shift moms on one unit at one time – that’s plenty.” -Ted Williams