St. Joseph health! - Winter 2013

Franciscan Health System • WINTER 2013

See page 13

for our

Calendar of

Events

heart!

Your new home for healthSee page 6

Have a little

Fall in love with healthy eating Ladies,

would you recognize a

heart attack?

health!St. Joseph

FROM ST. JoSeph medical cenTer AND THE OTHER SERVICES OF FranciScan healTh SYSTem

›› find us on facebook, twitter and Youtube!Get news and information about

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cy, parenting, women’s health, men’s

health, heart health and more. You’ll also

have access to our ereminder calendar to

keep track of recommended preventative

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exams for you and your loved ones. Visit

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Check out health! online @ www.FHShealth.org

3 PREVENTIVE CAREfall in love with healthy eating

4 FRANCISCAN NEWSStay current with what’s happening

at franciscan health System

6 YOUR NEW HOME FOR HEALTHMulti-service franciscan Medical

Building opens at St. Joseph

7 HEART HEALTHfranciscan offers free, confidential

screenings and expert support

8 WOMEN’S HEALTHladies, would you recognize a

heart attack?

10 WEIGHT LOSSDrs. Mercado set heartwarming

example for their patients

12 CANCER PREVENTIONMother’s memory at the heart

of decision to be screened for

colon cancer

A publication of Franciscan Health System

St. Francis Hospital 34515 Ninth Ave S, Federal Way, WA 98003St. Joseph Medical Center 1717 South J St, Tacoma, WA 98405St. Clare Hospital 11315 Bridgeport Way SW, Lakewood, WA 98499St. Elizabeth Hospital 1455 Battersby Ave, Enumclaw, WA 98022St. Anthony Hospital 11567 Canterwood Blvd NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98332Franciscan Medical Group 1313 Broadway Plaza, Suite 200, Tacoma, WA 98402

Ceo, franciscan health System Joe WilczekPresident, St. Joseph Medical Center Syd BersanteManaging editor amanda hobbs

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

for questions or comments, or if you’d like to be removed from the health! mailing list, please contact us at 253-382-3850, (fax) 253-382-3877, www.FHShealth.org or write to: editor, franciscan health!, franciscan health System, Marketing & Communications, Po Box 2197, tacoma, Wa 98401-2197.

Inside

2 Franciscan Health System | Winter 2013

Family Medicine

Franciscan Medical Clinic at St. Joseph

(253) 382-8200

1708 S. Yakima ave., 2nd floor, tacoma

Orthopedic Surgery

Tacoma Orthopaedic

Surgeons

(253) 756-0888

2420 S. Union ave.

Suite 300, tacoma

Otolaryngology

Franciscan Ear, Nose &

Throat Associates

(253) 426-6731

1708 S. Yakima ave.

Suite 112, tacoma

Vascular Surgery

Franciscan Vascular

Associates

(253) 382-8540

1802 S. Yakima ave.

Suite 204, tacoma

Rheumatology

ROAD Clinic

(253) 382-8390

1802 S. Yakima ave.

Suite 208, tacoma

Find your nEW health care professional today!

Lawrence Tsai, MD Maria Lomarda, MD

Ramandeep Sidhu, MD

Parmavir Sidhu, MD

Matthew Jenkins, MD

Craig Cupp, MD, EdD

www.FHShealth.org 3

Brandy McMahan, sous chef and catering manager, St. Joseph

Medical Center.

Does cutting calories top your new year’s resolution list? If so, good for you for taking the first steps toward creating a healthier lifestyle! When it comes to healthy eating you may want to think even more broadly about the benefits you’ll experience when you

improve your diet.“Making healthy food choices won’t just help

you lose weight — it’ll also boost your well-being,” said Joseph regimbal, MD, an internal medicine and geriatric medicine physician at Endocrine Consultants northwest. “In the long-term, healthy eating will reduce your risk of a number of diseases as well.” Focusing on all of these benefits can help keep you motivated to stick to your healthy habits now and in the future, Dr. regimbal said.

Whole-body benefits to healthy eatingIn the short-term you may notice these changes when you improve your diet:■■■ More energy■■■ Better sleep■■■ Improved mood■■■ An easier ability to move

and exercise

over time, healthy eating can also resolve some health problems and decrease your risk of others. These include:■■■ Decreased risk of type 2 diabetes■■■ Lower blood pressure ■■■ reduced risk of heart disease■■■ Less risk of certain types of cancer

talk to your doctor todayIf you’re looking to shape up your diet and your health, tell your doctor about it. your doctor is here to support you on your journey toward healthy living.

Joseph Regimbal, MD

get real about healthy eatingDid you know every franciscan cafeteria

offers healthy and tasty entrées – many of

which include nutritious ingredients from

locally sourced or sustainable farms? these

menu options are marked with the real

(responsible eating and living) label so

you’ll always know the ingredients are fresh,

healthy and better for the environment.

to meet the requirements of being a real

food entrée, a dish must

contain:■■■ 500 calories or less■■■ less than 30 percent of calories

from total fat (3 g total fat/100 calories)■■■ less than 10 percent of calories

from saturated fat■■■ No trans fat■■■ less than 500 mg sodium

thanks to the real food labels in the

franciscan cafeterias, healthy eating just got

a whole lot easier and even more delicious.

Stop in and try real food today!

+ Find your doctor at Franciscan Medical Group. Call 888-825-3227 or visit FranciscanDoctors.org.

Get a copy of Franciscan’s

2013 heart health! booklet

with recipes and tips for

keeping your heart healthy

at www.FHShealth.org/hearthealthbook.

Fall in love with healthy eating


Franciscan newsfraNCISCaN to laUNCh MYChart

this year, franciscan clinics and hospitals will transition to the most advanced

electronic health record available. the new system will ensure your comprehensive

medical record is quickly and securely available online to you and your doctors.

why is this important? this means your medications, allergies and past health

concerns will be available to any franciscan doctor – whether you’re just getting a

checkup or you’ve arrived unconscious at the emergency department. Doctors will

get a more complete picture of your health history and, if you are seeing more than

one doctor, the shared electronic health record makes it easier for them to coordinate

your care.

Greater convenience for you. Soon you will be able to access your medical records online

through franciscan MyChart. With MyChart you can send messages to your doctor, check on test

results and request appointments at a time and place that is convenient for you. MyChart can even help you manage your health by

sending you exam and screening reminders, and it makes it easier for your doctor to track your care and encourage you to follow

good health practices.

the first franciscan clinics, St. Joseph Medical Center, St. francis hospital, St. Clare hospital and St. anthony hospital will start

implementing the new electronic health record in late spring. St. elizabeth hospital already has an electronic health record, but will

move to the new system in 2014.

nEW To MEDICArE? Easily compare plans with our FrEE resource!

Franciscan Health System is pleased to provide a free Medicare Insurance Helpline operated by MedicareCompareuSA to help you compare the Medicare plans accepted by your Franciscan Medical Group physicians and Franciscan hospitals.

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

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

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

www.FHShealth.org 5

Seattle ChIlDreN’S to ProVIDe NeoNatal INteNSIVe Care at fraNCISCaNIn early 2013 Seattle Children’s hospital

neonatologists and neonatal nurse

practitioners will begin providing 24/7 care

to premature and critically ill newborns at

St. Joseph Medical Center in tacoma, and

around-the-clock neonatal support at

St. francis hospital in federal Way and

St. elizabeth hospital in enumclaw.

this exciting partnership will expand the

availability of specialized neonatal care in

the South Sound region and ensure the

most fragile newborns can receive the best

care close to home.

our 18-bed, level II special care nursery

at St. Joseph is also being expanded and

remodeled to include a new five-bed level

III NICU scheduled to open in late spring.

the level III designation allows us to care

for newborns as young as 28 weeks’

gestation (born 12 weeks before the

due-date) or as small as 2 pounds,

2 ounces.

For more information, visit

FhShealth.org/SeattleChildrens.

HArrISon MEDICAL CEnTEr To AFFILIATE WITH FrAnCISCAn HEALTH SySTEM

Harrison Medical Center, with its main campus in Bremerton and a satellite hospital in Silverdale, and Franciscan Health System are exploring a possible affiliation. over the next several months we will work together to evaluate the benefits of an alliance that could expand services, improve the delivery and quality of care and broaden access to services for communities in the South Puget Sound and on the Kitsap and olympic peninsulas. By working together, we can make it easier to access an array of services – from primary and specialized care to long-term care and research – on a scale neither could achieve on our own. The formal affiliation could be completed by the end of June 2013.

For more information, visit FHShealth.org.

St. JoSePh MeDICal CeNter WINS CoNSUMer ChoICe aWarD for 13th Year

St. Joseph Medical Center is a co-winner of the 2012-

2013 Consumer Choice award based on a survey of

tacoma-area residents by the National research Corp.

We earned this prestigious annual award because

people in our community chose St. Joseph during an

independent consumer study for the best overall quality,

image and reputation, and the best doctors and nurses.

this is the 13th time St. Joseph has earned the Consumer

Choice award since the program began in 1996.

We’re honored to receive this award which recognizes our commitment to be the

South Sound’s first choice for healing of mind, body and spirit.

For more information, visit FhShealth.org.

Syd Bersante, president of St. Joseph Medical Center

2012/2013


When the new Franciscan Medical Building at St. Joseph opens its doors this spring, you’ll be able experience a whole new level of medical care. “Every single aspect of the new building was designed to create the most efficient, convenient and welcoming experience possible,” said Eve Cunningham, MD, a Franciscan oB/Gyn whose practice will move into the new building.

Franciscan put a lot of heart into the building’s design. Physicians, clinicians, patients, technicians, customer service representatives and many more individu-als shared ideas to come up with the optimal layout for the five-story space. “We discussed every single detail such as how to set up the reception area, how

access through the hallways should flow, and where and how patients will sign in so we could come up with the most inviting and accessible experience for patients,” said Annie Morningstar, a member of Franciscan’s Patient Family Advisory Council, who participated in the planning sessions.

full spectrum of Women’s health servicesThe first floor to open will be women’s health services. “our clinic includes the full spectrum of obstetrics and gyneco-logical care for women,” said Karen nelson, MD, Franciscan Medical Group’s Division Chief for Women’s Health Services and a practicing oB/Gyn who will also practice in the new building. “In addition to oB/Gyns, midwives and maternal-fetal medicine specialists, we’ll also offer urogynecology services, all in one convenient location.”

Having all of these services located under one roof will be convenient for you and your physicians. “We’ll be able to work together to continuously improve our quality of care,” Dr. Cunningham said. “We’ll be available for consultations with one another and collaborate on the

best treatment possible for patients.”

The new department will also enable you to see multiple physicians or other professional providers in one visit.

Another cornerstone of the building’s design is convenience. The new building is connected to St. Joseph Medical Center via sky bridge on the second floor. Plus, an adjacent 818-stall garage will allow patients to park just a few covered steps from the clinic. “In addition to being available for my patients in the hospital, this minimizes the time I’m away from my office and will maximize the time I spend with my patients,” Dr. nelson said.

more services on the WayIn March, the first 3 floors of the building will open and offer comprehen-sive primary care (women’s care, family medicine, internal medicine and pediatrics) and eye care. By September the final two floors will be completed which feature orthopedics, spine surgery, sports medicine and physiatry, neurosci-ences, otolaryngology and audiology.

“The services in the new building will accommodate the majority of patients’ medical needs,” Dr. nelson said. “It’s a true medical home for patients.”

Karen Nelson, MDEve Cunningham, MD

Pictured above: A rendering of what the new Franciscan Medical Building at St. Joseph Medical Center will look like.

Visit FHShealth.org to learn more about the grand opening.

your new home for HEALTH

www.FHShealth.org 7

knowMyhealthrisk.orgheartAware is part of Franciscan’s family of on-line health risk

screening tests called healthAware. Visit KnowMyhealthrisk.org

to check out these free screenings:

■■■ heartAware■■■ StrokeAware ■■■ VascularAware

■■■ BreastCancerAware■■■ LungCancerAware

■■■ DiabetesAware■■■ BladderAware

Have you given your heart any love lately?

If it’s been awhile since you’ve thought

about heart health, Francis-can Health System’s free online HeartAware screening, at KnowMyHealthRisk.org, makes it easy to connect with the best prevention and treatment resources available for your heart.

Susan Eardley, ACnS-BC rn, manages HeartAware, a screening that measures your

risks for heart disease and offers free, in-person health-care consultations. “Everyone can benefit from additional information about their heart, which is why this program is so important,” Susan said.

support for youThe online HeartAware questionnaire gathers information about your family history, weight and smoking/exercise habits, as well as your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol numbers. If you don’t know your numbers, or are considered high-risk for

heart disease after completing the questionnaire, you are invited in for a free one-on-one screening.

We go the extra mile to ensure a patient’s concerns are heard and addressed. Susan noted, “Many times, the people I talk with haven’t had time to sit down with their doctor to get things off their chest. They ask, ‘Should I be worried about this?’ I simply listen and talk them through next steps. What’s good for wellbeing is good for the heart. This emotional support often proves immensely helpful,” Susan said.

connections to careIf any issues are uncovered during your consultation,

we’re ready to connect you with the expert care you’ll need. “It’s easy to find a Franciscan primary care provider – or cardiologist if necessary – near a person’s home or work. We also offer expert nutrition consulting to help them get on the right track,” Susan said.

To help you keep an eye on your heart health between doctor visits, we also offer free educational health talks on heart health throughout the year, free blood pressure kiosks at South Hill Mall, Federal Way Commons and Tacoma Mall and heart-focused support groups. These services can assist patients on their journey to better health.

Are you at risk for

Heart Disease?Franciscan’s free, confidential screenings and expert support help keep the beat strong

Susan Eardley, RN

+ ready to give your heart a little love? Visit KnowMyhealthrisk.org to start your free and easy screening today!


Franciscan’s St. Joseph Medical Center has been awarded the Society of Thoracic Surgeons’ highest, three-star rating for excel-lence in our cardiac surgery program during 2011. While the rating applies to men and women, cardiac surgeon John Luber, MD, who practices at Franciscan Cardiothoracic Surgery

Associates, said women’s heart health is a primary focus across our system.

This focus is critical because heart disease has historically

been considered a “man’s problem,” not a focus for

women, said Dr. Luber. He noted that: ■■■ More women than

men die of heart disease every year.

■■■ Women are half as likely as men to receive heart-related proce-dures like coronary

artery bypass surgery or catheterization angioplasty,

a minimally invasive procedure used to open a plaque-filled artery.

■■■ Women are more likely to suffer a second heart attack

and to die within two years of their first than men. ■■■ Women are also twice as likely

to die of heart disease than cancer. So we have made women’s heart

health a priority within our award-winning program. “nationwide, only the top 12 to 15 percent

of hospitals achieve this three-star top-tier, results-driven rating,” said Dr. Luber. “It shows

that our entire team — nurses, surgeons, medical doctors, discharge planners — actively prepares our

patients to meet the challenges of heart disease manage-ment and minimize the risk of future cardiac events.”


Ladies, would you recognize a heart attack?

John Luber, MD

Franciscan Heart Center offers award-winning care for your heart

www.FHShealth.org 9

turning the tide for Womenour medical professionals specializing in heart health are pushing to raise awareness about women’s heart risks. Dr. Luber takes great pride in our system-wide efforts to both recognize and aggressively treat women’s heart disease issues, as well as initiatives to educate both patients and

physicians to recognize the frequently atypical heart attack symptoms of women. “We proactively address the process, assuming that every woman is at risk,” he said.

Attentiveness to heart disease during primary care visits with an accurate risk assessment and an understanding of women’s unique heart attack symptoms play a critical role in creating an effective heart care strategy.

“Women usually present when they’re a little older, and tend to complain their pain is ‘sharp’ rather than the typical pressure men complain of,” said Amara Gill, MD, an internal medicine physician at Franciscan Medical Clinic at St. Joseph. Women are also more likely to have symptoms that are either “brushed off” or attributed to psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, including:

not feeling right? seek help!If a woman in generally good health is simply not feeling like herself for a few days, Dr. Gill recommends a physician’s visit to test for heart issues and start any necessary preventive measures.

However, if a woman is high risk and having symptoms like shortness of breath, she needs to dial 9-1-1 immediately. “Being at high risk includes having diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol, as well as smoking, being overweight or having family history of heart disease,” Dr. Gill said.

This is what a heart attack feels like to a woman

Amara Gill, MD

“nationwide, only the top 12 to 15 percent of hospitals achieve the three-star top-tier, results-driven rating.”

— John Luber, MD, cardiothoracic surgeon, Franciscan Cardiothoracic Surgery Associates

■■■ Shortness of breath■■■ Fatigue■■■ nausea

■■■ Dizziness■■■ neck, jaw, arm or back pain■■■ Anxiety or a sense of doom

+ For more information about our award-winning heart care, visit FhShealth.org/heart.


Married physicians set heartwarming example of weight loss

Married couple and Franciscan Medical Group physicians, Margaret Mercado, MD, and Francis Mercado, MD, have gone from talking the talk to walking the walk.

The Mercados have lost close to 200 pounds together since they decided to make food choice and lifestyle changes. now they feel better, have more energy and are an inspiration to their patients.

“Some of my patients don’t even recognize me anymore,” said Margaret Mercado, MD, a family medicine physician at Franciscan Medical Clinic in Port orchard. She lost more than 75 pounds. “I definitely feel like I can be a good example for my patients who’ve struggled with their weight. I can tell them ‘This is doable. you can do this.’”

Her husband, Francis Mercado, MD, an internal medicine physician at Franciscan Medical Clinic in Gig Harbor, said his weight had gotten so high that

he couldn’t believe his eyes — he thought the scale was broken. He has since lost more than 100 pounds.

getting fit, feeling betterThe Mercados’ journey began in the spring of 2011 when they decided “it was time for us to do something about it,” he said. They took a team ap-proach to losing weight and adopting healthy habits. In fact, they decided to see who could lose more weight.

“The competition was very motivat-ing and fulfilled that competitive spirit in both of us,” said Dr. Francis Mercado.

The couple overhauled their diet. They eat fruits and vegetables with almost every meal, closely watch their calorie intake and have switched from frying to grilling, baking or broiling. They also make exercise a regular part of their weekly routines, working out at home and at a gym. In their free time, instead of going out to eat or watching a movie, they exercise together.

Both physicians reported a noticeable difference in their health and abilities. Dr. Margaret Mercado said she no longer experiences knee and back pain when walking upstairs. When chasing after her children, who are 2 and 4, she doesn’t get short of breath anymore. Her husband added, “It gave us the satisfaction of knowing anything is possible.”

losing Weight safelyDr. Thanh Pham, MD, an internal medicine physician at Franciscan Medical Clinic in university Place, recommends you consult your doctor before starting the weight loss process, especially men older than 45 and women older than 55.

“The older we get, the higher the risk for heart disease and other medical complications,” he said. “And if you have an undiagnosed heart condition and stress yourself, this could cause a heart attack.”

Dr. Pham also encourages patients to visit the doctor with specific questions in mind. He notes that not all diets are healthy for all people, and a doctor or nutritionist can help patients sort through all the choices in an informed way.

“It’s about safety,” he said. “To avoid any unpleasant surprises, people should see their doctors first. Everyone has a lot to gain from healthy eating and exercise, so talk to your doctor.”

Thanh Pham, MD

before

www.FHShealth.org 11

+ Talk with your doctor about your weight loss and healthy living goals. to find a doctor near you, visit www.FranciscanDoctors.org. franciscan also

offers medically assisted weight loss and weight loss surgery options. Call 1-800-823-6525 to learn more.

Francis Mercado, MD, and Margaret Mercado, MD, Franciscan physicians, play with their children, Mia and Mikey. Together Drs. Mercado lost close to 200 pounds.


Maureen Armstrong, 70, put off having a colonoscopy until just last fall. For years her doctor encouraged her to get this important screening, especially because her mother had colorectal cancer.

“My primary care physician has been after me, every time I see him, so finally I did it. It’s not as bad as people fear, not at all!” said Maureen. She went to Diane Bai, MD, gastroenter-ologist at Franciscan Digestive Care Associates. “Everyone was very professional and made me feel so at ease. The whole thing was stress-free.”

“After I was sedated, I fell asleep. The next thing I knew I was coming out of it, and everything was done. It was painless,” said Maureen, who was given a clean bill of health. “Because of my family history, I have to have another one in five years, and I’m not worried a bit.”

Why colonoscopy mattersnobody will blame you if a colonoscopy isn’t exactly something you look forward to. But if you’ve never had one, you might be surprised at how easy this screening really is — and it might save your life.

“We strive to give every patient the best experience possible,” said Dr. Bai. “The most common response we hear after the procedure is, ‘Are you done already? That wasn’t bad at all.’ our doctors are the best-trained endoscopists in the country. We have highly specialized and experienced nurses who help you from the start of the preparation process until the day after the procedure. If I were having a colonoscopy, I’d definitely want to have it with the awesome people here.”

About one in three people who get colorectal cancer die of it. Along with detecting the disease, a colonoscopy can actually prevent it. During the procedure, doctors can remove growths called polyps that may turn into cancer if they’re left alone.

To make sure polyps are visible, your physician will give instructions for cleaning out your colon the day before. This preparation, which may include drinking a cleansing solution, is very important.

When to get screened“Most people should have a colonoscopy at age 50 and then, if the results are normal, repeat it every 10 years,” said John Carrougher, MD, division chief of gastro-enterology for Franciscan Medical Group and medical director for Franciscan Digestive Care Associates.

you might need the screening sooner or more often if you’re at higher risk. Talk with your doctor about the schedule that’s right for you. Factors that raise your risk include the following:■■■ Previously having colon

polyps or colorectal cancer

■■■ Having a family member who had colon cancer or rectal cancer■■■ Having a family member

age 60 or younger with colon polyps■■■ Having inflammatory

bowel disease■■■ Being African American

Diane Bai, MDJohn Carrougher, MD

+ Don’t let your fears keep you from this important test; talk with your doctor today! to find a doctor near you, visit www.FranciscanDoctors.org.

Maureen Armstrong holds a photo of her mother. Given her family’s history of colorectal cancer, Maureen knew it was important to get screened. She’s glad she chose Franciscan.

Mother’s memoryat heart of decision to be screened


EVENTS

4th annual Waterside Brunch & auctionPresented by St. Anthony Hospital in Gig Harbor,

“Up, Up & Away” is the theme for the 4th annual

Waterside Brunch & Auction. Come out and enjoy

a fabulous brunch prepared by Anthony’s expert

culinary staff, and peruse/bid on the gorgeous

array of donated gift baskets. Silent bidding and

also some surprise live auction fun. Proceeds will

benefit St. Anthony Hospital through the purchase

of special electronic patient lifts and other medical

equipment. For ticket information and inquiries

please contact the Franciscan Foundation at

(253) 428-8411.

» Sun., Feb. 2; 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.; GIG HARBOR,

Anthony’s Restaurant, 8827 North

Harborview Drive

carol Milgard Breast center’s 4th annual MardiGramsWhere mammograms and MardiGras rendezvous!

The largest screening event available in Pierce

County, the breast center provides routine

mammograms for medically underserved women

in our community in a festive atmosphere.

Breast self-examination classes will also be

available. Patients must pre-register for this

screening mammogram event — which is no cost

to patients who qualify. Unfortunately, walk-ins

cannot be accommodated. To find out if you

qualify, please contact Julie at (253) 680-3428

and be sure to reference MardiGrams.

» Tues., Feb. 12; 12 – 5 p.m.; TACOMA, Carol

Milgard Breast Center, 4525 South 19th Street

Pierce county cancer survivors conferenceSponsored by multiple community organizations

and cancer care advocates, the Pierce County

Cancer Survivor’s Conference is free and open to

all people affected by cancer as patients, family

members and caregivers. It is the largest

educational and inspirational gathering of cancer

survivors in this community. The conference

provides a unique opportunity for our local

community of survivors to connect in a day-long

series of seminars and workshops that explore the

physical, mental and spiritual aspects of cancer

survivorship. For more information, go to

www.pccancersurvivorship.org or call Franciscan

Cancer Center (253) 426-6746.

» Wed., March 20; 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.; TACOMA,

University of Puget Sound, 1500 North

Warner Street

Transfusion-Free Medicine and surgery ProgramInterested in transfusion-free medicine? Want

to avoid using donor blood during a surgical

procedure? Join our expert team of professionals

to learn about the advantages of using transfu-

sion-free medical techniques and to learn more

about the reasons why people choose these

treatments. This event is free but seating is limited

and registration is required. Call 1-888-311-2655

to reserve your seats today!

» Sat., Feb. 2; 2 – 4 p.m.; Sat., April 20; 2 – 4 p.m.;

TACOMA, St. Joseph Medical Center,

1717 S. J. St., Lagerquist Conference Room

Living More Organically: everything you need to Know about Organic Foods, Organic Gardening and how to Make Organic Lifestyle choicesHear from Lori Lively of Marlene’s Market on how

to incorporate organic foods into your daily

regimen. This promises to be a day of celebrating,

learning and experiencing organic concepts in

new and unexpected ways. Please join us by

calling Kathryn Dunn, (253) 924-6024 or by

visiting www.eventbrite.com/event/4831993623.

» FEDERAL WAY, Fri., Feb. 22, Twin Lakes Golf

and Country Club, 3583 Southwest 320th Street

Living with Kidney diseaseProvides an overview on dialysis and kidney

disease, types of dialysis available, nutritional

needs, medication concerns, finances and other

social concerns. This event is free but seating is

limited. To register, call 1-888-825-3227.

» Wed., Feb. 6; 2:30 – 5:30 p.m.; TACOMA,

St. Joseph Medical Center, Lagerquist C

Conference Room

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

WiNTEr

2013

health!for your


newborn Preparation A resource for parents

preparing for discharge after delivery. This one time

class includes topics such as postpartum care of

mom and baby, hints for adjusting to new roles,

basic newborn care and resources. $50/couple.

infant Massage Fun, relaxing 3-hour class

designed to nurture the bond between parents

and babies. $60 for parents and baby.

cPr/child safety Learn basic

resuscitation and how to make

your home safe for children.

$50/person, $90/couple.

safe sitter Babysitting

training for adolescents. Discusses

many topics including how to

handle emergencies. $75/person.

Free car seat safety check Is your child’s car seat

installed correctly? Certified

technicians will show you how

to install your car seat according

to national safety guidelines.

1st Tuesday of each month.

5:30 - 7 p.m. For clinic

details, visit www.

FHShealth.org/carseat.

» FEDERAL WAY,

St. Francis Hospital

Medical Office Building,

34509 Ninth Ave. S,

front entrance

solutions for hip PainLiving with a bum hip? Find out which treatment is

right for you as Joshua A. Johnston, MD discusses

minimally-invasive and surgical techniques that will

get you back to enjoying your everyday activities.

To register, call 1-888-825-3227 or visit classes and

events at FHShealth.org.

» Thurs., March 14; 6 - 7:30 p.m.; PUYALLUP,

Best Western Puyallup, 620 South Hill Park Drive

solutions for Foot & ankle arthritisIf you’ve had stiffness, pain and swelling of the foot or

ankle, this health talk may help you. Come hear about

foot and ankle arthritis solutions from Craig Clifford,

DPM, foot & ankle surgeon. To register, call 1-888-825-

3227 or visit classes and events at FHShealth.org.

» Tues., Feb. 26; 6 – 7 p.m.; FEDERAL WAY,

St. Francis Hospital, Medical Office Building,

34509 Ninth Ave. S

FAMiLY EDUCATiON

For more information about our family education

classes and to register, call 1-888-825-3227 or visit

FHSHealth.org/childbirthclasses.

childbirth Preparation Three Franciscan

hospitals offer childbirth preparation classes. Topics

include pregnancy comfort measures, labor and birth

including variations and interventions, and postpartum.

$125/couple or free with Provider One/ DSHS card.

Family Birth center Maternity reception and Tour Be prepared for your upcoming

delivery with a tour of the birth center and tips

for going home with your baby. FREE!

Teen childbirth Preparation Pregnancy

preparation specifically addressing the unique

needs of young people 19 and under. $60/couple

or free with Provider One/DSHS card.

Protecting your Pelvic Floor Franciscan

physical therapists, specialists in pelvic floor

muscle training, offer techniques to strengthen

and protect your pelvic floor muscles during

pregnancy and the birth process. Class fee

includes an exercise kit. $50/person.

Breastfeeding Preparation Covers basic

breastfeeding initiation tips and accessing

postpartum lactation resources. $50/couple.

conscious Fathering Dads-to-be discuss

priorities, life adjustment, fears, problem solving,

partnership and basic infant care. $50/person.

HEALTH TALKS: OrTHOpEDiC

advancements in Joint replacementAre painful hips and knees impeding your everyday

life? Find out which options are available to you as a

leading orthopedic surgeon discusses the latest

innovations in implants and surgical techniques

that are helping patients heal faster, experience

less pain and create longer-lasting joints. This

event is free but seating is limited. To register,

call 1-888-825-3227 or visit classes and events

at FHShealth.org.

» Presenter: John Jiganti, MD, orthopedic surgeon;

Tues., Jan. 29; 6 - 7:30 p.m.; GIG HARBOR, Inn at

Gig Harbor, 3211 56th Street Northwest

» Presenter: Michael Miller, MD, orthopedic surgeon;

Thurs., April 4; 6 - 7:30 p.m.; ENUMCLAW,

St. Elizabeth Hospital, Rainier Room

HEALTH TALKS

don’t Let Leg Pain slow you downPeripheral Artery Disease affects 1 in 20 people

over age 50. Come learn about the causes,

symptoms and treatments from expert vascular

surgeon Ramandeep Sidhu, MD. To register,

call 1-888-825-3227 or visit classes and events

at FHShealth.org.

» Wed., Feb. 20; 6 – 7:30 p.m.; TACOMA,

LaQuinta Inn & Suites, 1425 East 27th St.

healthy is delicious – eating a Mediterranean dietThe traditional foods eaten in Mediterranean

countries like Greece and Italy are studied

extensively because of the longevity of people

living in this region. Learn from our Franciscan

Cancer Care experts why foods such as olive oil,

legumes, nuts and fish can improve your health.

Enjoy a cooking demonstration with a Franciscan

chef, showing you how to prepare these foods at

Healthy is Delicious. Cost is $10 per person and

includes many appetizers. Space is limited.

Register by calling 1-888-825-3227.

» Tues., Feb. 26; 6 - 8 p.m.; TACOMA, St. Joseph

Medical Center, Lagerquist A&B Conference Room

» Thur., March 7; 6 - 8 p.m.; ENUMCLAW,


» Tues., March 12; 6 - 8 p.m.; ENUMCLAW,


» Thur., March 14; 6 - 8 p.m.; FEDERAL WAY,

St. Francis Hospital, Medical Office Building

Conference Room

» Tues., March 26; 6 - 8 p.m.; FEDERAL WAY,

St. Francis Hospital, Medical Office Building

Conference Room

Fight Back against Metabolic syndromeHigh blood pressure, high blood sugar, unhealthy

cholesterol levels and excess abdominal fat all

contribute to metabolic syndrome. More than

47 million Americans have this condition. Learn

more about what you can do to get back on the

path to good heart health! Have your questions

answered by heart health expert, John Luber, MD,

and diabetes educator, Rebecca Clow, RD, CDE.

Heart- and diabetes-friendly refreshments to be

served. To register, call 1-888-825-3227 or visit

classes and events at FHShealth.org.

» Thur., Feb. 7; 6 – 7:30 p.m.; TACOMA, St. Joseph

Medical Center, Lagerquist A&B, 1717 S. J Street


St. JoSePh MeDiCAL CeNter1717 S. J St

Tacoma • 253-426-4101

St. FrANCiS hoSPitAL34515 Ninth Ave S

Federal Way • 253-944-8100

St. CLAre hoSPitAL11315 Bridgeport Way S.W. Lakewood • 253-985-1711

St. eLizABeth hoSPitAL1455 Battersby Ave

Enumclaw • 360-802-8800

St. ANthoNY hoSPitAL11567 Canterwood Blvd N.W. Gig Harbor • 253-530-2000

WEigHT LOSS

Weight Loss surgery—Learn the FactsJoin this FREE seminar to learn your surgical

options at the Franciscan Center for Weight

Management, a designated Bariatric Surgery

Center of Excellence by the American Society

for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Registration

is required. Go to FranciscanWeightLoss.org or

call 1-888-825-3227.

Medical Weight LossNeed to lose 30 pounds or less? Our weight

loss program includes medically supervised

options such as nutrition consultation, education

and support groups. Call 1-800-823-6525 for

more information.

» FEDERAL WAY, Franciscan Center for Weight

Management, 34509 Ninth Ave. S, Suite 310

Weight Loss surgery support Groups Getting to know other people who share

experiences similar to yours can contribute a great

deal to your long-term success. Whether you’re

contemplating surgical weight loss or have

already had surgery, we have a support group to

meet your needs. Participants share experiences

and answer each others’ questions in a safe,

non-judgmental atmosphere. Health profession-

als, including behaviorists, dietitians, physicians

and physical therapists, attend these meetings

on a rotating basis to offer guidance and

up-to-date information. Register online at

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

» LAKEWOOD, Third Monday of the Month,

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

Center

» FEDERAL WAY, Second Tuesday of the Month,

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

Building, 34509 Ninth Ave. S

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

SUppOrT grOUpS

Grief supportAre you dealing with the death of a spouse, parent,

child or other loved one? Does it feel as if the

sadness will never lift, or that you are isolated from

friends and family? While everyone experiences loss

differently, grief that is expressed and experienced

within a supportive environment has the power

to heal. You are not alone. Join us for free!

» 1st & 3rd Wed; 1 - 2:30 p.m.; ENUMCLAW,

St. Elizabeth Hospital, Cedar Room,

1455 Battersby Ave.

caregivers support GroupCaregiving is an act of kindness, love and loyalty.

It is also an act that can drain one’s batteries,

involving numerous practical decisions and

emotional hurdles. If you are the primary caregiver

for an aging, declining or ill individual, join us.

Find out about valuable resources, education and

tools for coping with the challenges of caregiving

while receiving understanding support from other

caregivers. Join us for free!

» 1st & 3rd Thurs; 1 - 2:30 p.m.; ENUMCLAW,

Enumclaw Public Library

Womenheart of Pierce county This group is for women who are heart attack

survivors, are at risk for heart disease or want to

learn more. WomenHeart is the only national

organization dedicated to advancing women’s

heart health through advocacy, community

education and patient support. E-mail or call

[email protected] or call (253) 426-4456

for more information.

» Last Tues/month; 5 - 7 p.m.; TACOMA,

St. Joseph Medical Center, 1717 S J St.

WOMEN’S HEALTH

Franciscan offers FREE preventative and wellness

screening tools to help you assess your health risks.

neW! BladderawareAfraid to laugh, cough or sneeze? There are

solutions and incontinence is not necessarily a

normal part of aging. Introducing BladderAware,

a new incontinence health assessment screening

tool that, once completed, provides you with a

confidential report you can use to talk with your

doctor or get a free consultative referral to a

specialist. Learn more! Available online at

FHShealth.org/Know-Your-Health-Risk.

Other screening tools available online:

» CancerAware – Breast

» CancerAware – Lung

» SleepAware

» StrokeAware

» HeartAware

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

About FrAnciscAn HeAltH system

›› our mission

To create healthier communities

›› our Vision

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

›› our VAlues

Reverence, Integrity, Compassion, Excellence

Franciscan Health System is a family of more than 8,500

doctors, nurses and staff who provide exceptional medical

care in hospitals, clinics, urgent care and outpatient centers

throughout south Puget Sound.

FHshealth.org10437MD

Don’t let surgery interfere with the moments that matter.Trust the robotic surgery experts at Franciscan.

When you need surgery, you’ll find the expertise and advanced technology of a premier surgical program at Franciscan. With 18 robotic-trained surgeons and four surgical robots, the St. Joseph Medical Center team is celebrating the milestone of completing more than 2,500 procedures. And St. Joseph is proud to be the only da Vinci® surgeon training center for robotic-assisted thoracic surgery in the Western U.S.

Using the most advanced generation of the da Vinci Surgical System, surgeons at St. Joseph and St. Francis Hospital in Federal Way perform minimally invasive procedures to help you experience less scarring and recover faster than you would with traditional surgery—giving you more time to live the life you love.

To find a surgeon who specializes in robotic-assisted surgery, visit www.FHShealth.org/robotics or call 1 (888) 825-3227.

FOR ADVANCED MEDICINE AND TRUSTED CARE, CHOOSE FRANCISCAN.

E x p E R T C A R E AT S T. J O S E p H M E D I C A l C E N T E R A N D S T. F R A N C I S H O S p I TA l

Meet our da Vinci® Robotic-assisted Surgery Specialists

General Surgery

• Ronald Graff, MD • Linda Pai, MD

Gynecology

• Eve Cunningham, MD• Theresa Froelich, MD• James Greene, MD • Cindy Mosbrucker, MD• Karen Nelson, MD• Paula Smith, MD• William Su, MD • Julius Szigeti, MD• Estelle Yamaki, MD

Gynecologic Oncology• Bahman Saffari, MD

Thoracic (lung and chest)

• Nyen Chong, MD• Baiya Krishnadasan, MD

Urology

• Christopher Arroyo, MD• Anthony Caruso, MD• Frank Kim, MD

Weight loss

• Troy Houseworth, MD

fraNCISCaN health SYSteM1717 South J Streettacoma, Wa 98405

NONPROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDFRANCISCAN

HEALTH SYSTEM

Documents

St. Joseph health! - Winter 2013