Salem Hospital: News and Events: Press Release Archive: 2002

Once again this holiday season, Salem Hospital sponsored a Tree of Giving for Bush Elementary School students. The school is Salem Hospital's Business Partner in Education. Employees donated clothing, toys and other gifts to students.

"This year we received over 80 gifts from our employees," said Sherri Partridge, the hospital's Community Relations Manager and coordinator of the program. "This is the 12th year we've had a Tree of Giving for kids at Bush School, and our employees always look forward to participating."

Also, staff from the hospital's mother-baby unit are collecting food and formula for the Marion-Polk Food Share.

Hospital Employee Celebrates the Season with Giving
December 12 , 2002

Larry Gerig, Equipment Coordinator for Surgical Services at Salem Hospital, has been playing guitar and singing for as long as he can remember. So he thought why not make a holiday CD and donate 100 percent of the money collected to charity.

What started two years ago as a cassette for his mom for Christmas, has turned into the CD A Very Larry Christmas, Volume 3. Last year Gerig recorded himself singing and playing traditional Christmas songs, and Jeff Munson from Salem Hospital's Clinical Engineering Department, created the cover art and produced about 30 CDs. The CDs, priced at $5 each, sold out quickly. With the proceeds Gerig bought toothbrushes, toothpaste, shaving cream and other items, and donated them to the Union Gospel Mission and the Salvation Army. He also purchased dog food and donated it to the Humane Society of the Willamette Valley.

The CDs were so popular last year, that Gerig and Munson started early this year, and produced about 50 of A Very Larry Christmas, Volume 3. The CDs sell for $7 each, with 100 percent of the money collected going to purchase items for the Union Gospel Mission, the Salvation Army and the Humane Society of the Willamette Valley.

"I head to WinCo and load up on supplies," said Gerig. "When we dropped the toothbrushes and other items off at the Mission last year, someone there needed a toothbrush, and while it may not seem like that big a deal, it felt great to be able to reach into my bag and pull out a toothbrush," said Gerig.

Regional Rehabilitation Center Aquatic Specialist Receives National Recognition
November 25, 2002

Mary Smith, Aquatic Specialist at Salem Hospital, has been named the Best Fitness Club/Rehabilitation Center Manager by the national publication Aquatics International. Smith
is featured in the November/December issue of the magazine.

Smith oversees a number of aquatic programs at Salem Hospital's Regional Rehabilitation Center pool, which includes a warm water therapy pool, sports tank used for orthopedic injuries, and a spa. A variety of patients participate in water programs for both individual and group therapy, including aquatic Tai Chi; SPLASH, a water exercise program
for people with diabetes; and STAR (Swim Therapy for Advanced Rehabilitation).

"Mary does a great job of encouraging and supporting patients," said Patti Peterson, program manager at the Regional Rehabilitation Center. "It's great to see what a difference water therapy has made in helping people maximize their strength and flexibility."

Each month approximately 750 people use the center's pool for therapy.

For more information about programs available at the hospital's Regional Rehabilitation Center, call 561-5986.

Hospital Honors Volunteers
November 14, 2002

At the annual awards ceremony held on Wednesday, Nov. 13, at Mission Mill, Salem Hospital recognized 295 adult volunteers who donated 30,791 hours of service to hospital patients, visitors and staff last year.

Top awards were given to Helen Hanzel and Reiko Murphy for 30 years of service;
Nancy Lacey and Lily Van Someren for 25 years of service; Toby Burke and Muriel McBee
for 20 years of service, and Elinor Auld, Mildred Barker, Marcille Bennett, Mary Chesley and Dorothy Dungey for 15 years of service.

Special recognition went to Colleen Crowell, who last year alone volunteered at the
hospital for 1,204 hours, Anne Prantl, 780 hours last year, William Reynolds, 628 hours last year and Lois Hamar, 568 hours last year.

"Our volunteers provide an amazing link between the community and the hospital," said Lynda Fitzsimons, the hospital's director of volunteer services. "And words can't express our thanks for their commitment, smiles and time."

Volunteers work in a number of hospital departments, and provide a variety of services including sewing Christmas stockings for babies born in December; serving as Critical Care and Emergency Department "friends," delivering mail and flowers and giving tours. For more information about volunteering at the hospital, contact Lynda Fitzsimons at 561-5189.

Senior Services Agency Recognizes Hospital's Support of Older Adults
October 22, 2002

On Monday, Oct. 28, at Noon at the Wittenberg Inn, the Mid-Willamette Valley Senior Services Agency (MWVSSA) in Salem will present an award to Salem Hospital for its excellent community initiatives and contributions to the agency and its clients.

The agency assists older people in making and implementing choices that maximize their independence and quality of life.

The hospital provides a number of programs and services to older adults including free public forums on a wide range of topics such as how to stay in your home, and how to prevent falls. The hospital also publishes a free 56-page booklet called A Guide to Community Resources for Seniors. Also, staff from the hospital's social services department provide a variety of services to older adults each day.

"We continue to provide a wide range of services in support of seniors in our community, and we really appreciate being recognized for our efforts," said Valorie Freeman, manager of the hospital's Social Services Department.

Hospital Inpatient Psychiatry Program Receives Award For Excellence
October 4, 2002

Salem Hospital's Inpatient Psychiatry Program has received an Award for Excellence from the State Office of Mental Health and Addiction Services. The award will be presented at a ceremony scheduled for October 9, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Capitol.

October 6 through October 12 is National Mental Illness Awareness Week.
The notification letter reads in part, "…The changes in the culture at Salem Hospital Psychiatric Program are a model for the state and nation in responding to new regulations for seclusion and restraint. It is your leadership that has made treatment safe for consumers and staff, and sets an example for all of us. Our mission is to enhance the mental health of Oregonians and empower them to achieve meaningful lives."

The 2002 Award for Excellence is sponsored by the State Office of Mental Health and Addiction Services, the Oregon Psychiatric Association and the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI).

"With so much still to do, it is sometimes easy to forget to pause and reflect on what we've accomplished," said Maggie Bennington-Davis, M.D., Medical Director of Salem Hospital's Psychiatric Medicine Services, and President-Elect of the hospital's medical staff.

"It is the excellent work by our staff and physicians that has led to this recognition, and I'm fortunate to work with such a great team."

Salem Hospital's Adult Psychiatric Medicine Center is a 24-bed facility serving patients with a variety of emotional and psychiatric problems.

Facts and Figures About Mental Illness
(From the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill)

Mental illnesses are health conditions characterized by alterations in thinking, mood or behavior (or some combination) associated with distress and/or impaired functioning.
Of American adults, 5.4 percent have a serious mental illness.
Twenty-three percent of American adults (ages 18 and older) suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder in a given year, but only half report impairment of their daily functioning due to the mental disorder. Six percent of adults have addictive disorders alone, and three percent have both mental and addictive disorders.
Almost half of the adults with serious and persistent mental illnesses are between the ages of 25 and 44.
Four of the ten leading causes of disability in the United States and other developed countries are mental disorders, which include major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder

New Classes Offered for People Thinking of Having a Baby and for New Dads
October 2, 2002

A new presentation at Salem Hospital titled Baby, Maybe? will be held Monday, Oct. 14, at 7 p.m., at the hospital's Wedel Auditorium located on the lower level of the hospital at 665 Winter St. SE.

If you're pondering parenthood, stop by this free talk and learn what physicians say about getting healthy before pregnancy, developing positive parenting styles and learning more about the lifestyle changes that go along with pregnancy and parenthood.

Guest speakers will include a Salem Hospital obstetrician and pediatrician. Registration is not required. For questions, call the hospital at 561-5639.

Also, a new class called Training Camp for New Dads will be held on Saturday, Nov. 9, from 9 a.m. to Noon at the hospital. This class will help soon-to-be new dads hit the ground crawling. Experienced dads bring in their own infants to demonstrate things such as burping and swaddling. Other issues for new fathers will be explored including bonding with baby and working as a team with mom.

Cost is $20, and registration is required by calling the hospital at 561-5639. The class was made possible by a grant from the Salem Hospital Foundation.

Women's Health Event Scheduled for October 7
September 23, 2002

Tori Hudson, N.D., a naturopathic physician and author of the new book Women's Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine, will present an entertaining and motivating talk Monday, Oct. 7, at 7 p.m. at Salem Hospital's eighth annual Women's Health Event 2002: An Evening to Remember.

Hudson was named Physician of the Year by the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) in 1999. She lectures nationally, and has been honored by the AANP for her research in the field of women's health care.

According to Hudson, the variety of soy options available, as well as the many clinical effects in women, have positioned soy foods and products as one of the leading natural medicines in women's health today for both prevention and intervention.

Prior to her lecture, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at there will be a health fair with information for women on topics including breast self-exam, cosmetics and bone density screenings.
Cost for the event is $8, and registration is required by calling the hospital at
503-561-5639.

New Board of Trustee Members Selected
September 17, 2002

Salem Hospital announces the appointment of Jennifer Neahring, M.D., and Rep. Lane Shetterly to its Board of Trustees, effective October 1, 2002.

Dr. Neahring is a Nephrologist, specializing in the treatment of kidney disease. She joined Salem Hospital's medical staff in 1998. Dr. Neahring graduated from Northwestern University Medical School in Chicago, and completed a Nephrology fellowship at the University of Iowa.

Rep. Shetterly, who represents House District 23 covering rural Polk and Benton Counties, was born in Dallas and earned a Bachelor's degree in Education from Oregon College of Education (now Western Oregon University), and a law degree from Lewis and Clark Law School. His law practice in Dallas, Oregon, emphasizes business and estate planning. He is also legal counsel for the Dallas School District.

"Both Rep. Lane Shetterly and Dr. Jennifer Neahring have a significant understanding about issues facing health care delivery in general, and community hospitals in particular," said hospital board chair Katherine Keene. "They are both highly regarded for their leadership skills, and will make significant contributions as members of the Board of Trustees of Salem Hospital and West Valley Hospital. We are pleased to welcome each of them and appreciate their willingness to serve."

In addition to board chair Katherine Keene, other members of Salem Hospital's Board of Trustees are: George Happ, Vice Chair; Bruce Carter, M.D., Secretary; Kenneth Sherman Jr., Treasurer; Michael Compton, Member at Large; David Elmgren, M.D., Mike Garcia, Chuck Hudkins, Ruth Johnson, R.N., Gary Kaufman, Richard Kreitzberg, Mark Mueller and Robert Thompson.

The Salem Hospital Board of Trustees' primary responsibility is to develop and follow the organization's mission statement as well as to ensure that the mission is achieved. The hospital's mission is to provide quality healthcare services and leadership in promoting health improvement to all persons in its service area on a non-discriminatory basis and without regard to ability to pay.

It is also the responsibility of the board to develop and pursue the realization of the vision statement. This leads to the development of specific policies in the four key areas of quality performance, financial performance, planning performance and management performance.

Hospital Recoginzes National Rehabilitation Awareness Week
September 13, 2002

Salem Hospital celebrates
National Rehabilitation Awareness Week, Sept. 15 - 21

For over 20 years, Salem Hospital has been providing rehabilitation services to people with a variety of conditions such as strokes, head, knee or back injuries.

During the week of September 15, the hospital is celebrating National Rehabilitation Week. This week was established by the National Rehabilitation Awareness Foundation to educate people about the benefits and impact of rehabilitation; develop programs which aim to increase opportunities for the nearly 50 million Americans with disabilities, and help those who are disabled live up to their fullest potential through rehabilitation.

The over 230 staff members at Salem Hospital's Regional Rehabilitation Center work with people each day in a number of areas including:
(more)

Cardiac Rehab
Occupational Medicine
Comprehensive Inpatient Rehab.
Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Diabetic Education
Outpatient Neuro. Rehab.
Hand Therapy
Sports Medicine
Lifeline emergency response
Work Injury Management

"Everyone who comes to our facility, whether it's for something like a back injury or stroke, is seeking hope," said Pat Moore, M.D., medical director of the hospital's Regional Rehabilitation Center.

"They've had their lives disrupted in some way, and one of our staff's most important jobs is to keep that hope alive, and build on it."

For more information about services or programs provided by Salem Hospital's Regional Rehabilitation Center, located at 2561 Center Street NE, call 503-561-5986.

For additional information on any press release, contact Sherri Partridge in the hospital's Marketing and Community Relations Department at 503-561-5664

Foundation Sponsors Free Community Lectures
August 20, 2002

The Salem Hospital Foundation is sponsoring a number of free community forums. Events are held in the hospital's Wedel Conference Center at 665 Winter St. SE, and reservations are not required. For questions about any of the programs, call the hospital at 503-561-5639.

Teens and Sex: The Role of Parents
Wednesday, Aug. 28, 7 p.m.
Having "the talk" with your children is never easy, and is often uncomfortable. But it's something that must be done. Learn more about a parent's role in this important topic from featured speaker Patricia Sulak, M.D. Dr. Sulak is a Professor at Texas A & M School of Medicine, and is the Director of the Sex Education Program at Scott and White Clinic in Texas.

Cholesterol and You
Thursday, Sept. 26, 7 p.m
If you're confused about HDL, LDL, triglycerides, total cholesterol and the implications of proper nutrition, join Sonja Connor, Registered Dietitian, and her husband, Endocrinologist, William Connor, M.D., for an evening of information and enlightenment.

Breast Cancer: What's New
Thursday, Oct. 17, 7 p.m.
Join Beth Dayton, M.D., and Arnella Hennig, M.D., to learn the latest on breast cancer detection and treatment. A breast cancer survivor will present information about breast cancer from a uniquely personal perspective.

Campbell Diabetes Lecture:
All in the Family - Preventing Type 2 Diabetes in Kids at Risk
Thursday, Nov. 14, 7 p.m.
Diabetes has recently been called the American Epidemic, and is a growing concern for children. Featured speaker Bruce Boston, M.D., will help you recognize the risk factors for kids in developing Type 2 diabetes at an early age, and will also describe how cultural influences promote obesity and can lead to an increased risk of diabetes. Dr. Boston is Chief of the Pediatric Endocrinology Department at Doernbecher Children's Hospital, and is an Associate Professor of Pediatric Endocrinology at Oregon Health and Sciences University.

The lecture is presented in honor of Charles Campbell, M.D., who practiced medicine in Salem for 58 years. Among his many achievements, Dr. Campbell developed the hospital's Diabetes Education Center, and served as its medical director for 20 years. He died in 1997.

Internet Medicine: Reliable or Unreliable?
Thursday, Nov. 21, 7 p.m.
Suffering from www. confusion? With so many medically-related websites touting information, it's difficult to know what is correct and credible. George Lundberg, M.D., can help you surf the medical web safely and effectively. Dr. Lundberg is a Professor of Clinical Pathology at Northwestern University in Chicago, an Adjunct Professor of Health Policy at Harvard University and is a special advisor to the chairman of WebMD.

The Salem Hospital Foundation is a charitable organization that supports medical and medically related projects. The foundation's 15 volunteer directors help raise funds and manage the resources of the foundation.

Hospital Board Names Interim CEO
August 5 , 2002

At its meeting on August 1, the Salem Hospital Board of Trustees named Jeff Cushing as interim President and CEO, effective October 1. Cushing succeeds Dennis Noonan, the hospital's current President and CEO, who announced his resignation effective September 30.

Noonan has been with Salem Hospital for 14 years, serving as President and CEO since July of 1994.

Cushing joined Salem Hospital as Executive Vice President of Operations in October of last year. He is responsible for leading the organization in day-to-day operations including patient care, professional support services, finance and administrative services.

Prior to joining Salem Hospital, Cushing held various leadership positions during a 16-year tenure with the Legacy Health System in Portland, culminating his career there as Vice President of Clinical Operations and Site Administrator for Legacy Meridian Park.

Salem Hospital is the city's largest private employer with 2,700 employees. It has an annual payroll, including benefits, of more than $125 million, and is one of the largest of Oregon's 63 hospitals.

Cardiologists Perform First Electrophysiology Study at Salem Hospital
July 31, 2002

Last month, Cardiologists Wallace Lai, M.D., and Vivek Mangla, M.D., performed the first Electrophysiology (EP) study at Salem Hospital. An EP study is one way physicians diagnose, as well as treat, heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias) and assess whether patients are at risk for sudden cardiac death or other
life-threatening conditions.

In an EP study, local anesthetics are used to numb areas in the groin or near the neck. Tiny wires or catheters are then passed into the heart to measure and record electrical activity. The physician studies the speed and flow of electrical signals through the heart, identifies rhythm problems and pinpoints areas in the heart's muscle that show abnormal electrical signals that can cause heart rhythm disorders.

"An EP study not only helps diagnose various conditions, but also enables us to treat certain conditions," said Dr. Lai. "We can get an electrical road map of the heart that allows us to focus in on the affected area, and then if appropriate, fix that area of the heart using radiofrequency energy. To put it more simply, we're correcting a short circuit in the heart through a minimally invasive procedure."

In the past, people with conditions such as an irregular or rapid heart beat had to be on medication or undergo open heart surgery. The EP procedure, which includes a diagnostic and whenever appropriate a therapeutic portion, can take anywhere from one to four hours, and is performed in the hospital's cardiac catherization lab with specially trained staff working along side the cardiologist. Specialized equipment is used to record these electrical signals. The hospital recently purchased this equipment at a cost of more than $150,000.

"We're glad to be able to offer this service to our patients so they don't have to drive to Portland or Eugene," said Robert Estrada, manager of the hospital's Angiography Department. "And we're fortunate to have such knowledgeable physicians in Dr. Lai and Mangla to start and run the program here at the hospital." Both Lai and Mangla completed training in electrophysiology at Oregon Health and Sciences University in Portland.

Risk Factors and Prevention
Many arrhythmias and other disorders of the heart and cardiovascular system have no known cause, and it's not always possible to prevent them. There are, however, a number of factors known to contribute to some arrhythmias and heart disorders, including:

Coronary artery disease
High cholesterol
Drug abuse
High blood pressure
Obesity
Stress
Diabetes
A high-fat diet
Family History *Smoking
Excessive use of alcohol
Advancing Age
Certain substances, including some over-the-counter and prescription medications, dietary supplements and herbal remedies are known to cause arrhythmias and other heart problems in some people. (source North American Society of Pacing and Electrophysiology)

New OB/GYN Physicians Join Hospital Medical Staff
July 25, 2002

If you're thinking of having a baby, but can't find an obstetrician taking new patients, you're in luck. Three new physicians specializing in obstetrics and gynecology recently moved to Salem, and are members of Salem Hospital's medical staff.
James Culver, M.D., graduated from medical school at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill in 1998, and completed his internship and residency in North Carolina in June. Starting July 29, Dr. Culver will be practicing with David West, M.D., at Willamette Women's Health Associates.

Jonathan Pugmire, M.D., graduated from medical school at the University of New Mexico in 1998, and completed his internship and residency at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas in June. Dr. Pugmire will be taking over a practice from Salem physician Duane Beard, M.D. As of July 11, 2002, both Dr. Culver and Pugmire were granted associate staff status on Salem Hospital's medical staff.

Lavena Morgan, M.D., recently relocated her practice to Salem from Newberg, and as of June 6, was granted associate staff status on Salem Hospital's medical staff. Dr. Morgan graduated from Southern Illinois Medical School in 1994, and completed her residency at Rush-Presbyterian St. Lukes Medical Center in Chicago. She operates an independent practice located next to the hospital in the Northbank Center.

"After years of recruitment, we are happy to welcome these new members to the OB/GYN Department at Salem Hospital," said Patricia Peterson, M.D., chair of Salem Hospital's Obstetrics and Gynecology Department. "The current malpractice crisis in Salem and Oregon has threatened the ability to recruit and retain physicians who are greatly needed in our community."

To assist in getting new physicians to the Salem area, Salem Hospital provides an interest-free loan for up to one year to help fund things like office equipment and supplies, staff and relocation expenses. The hospital also works with physicians in finding available office space.

"We created the physician loan program in 1990 to help physicians coming to our community establish a practice," said Kathleen Dowling, the hospital's Vice President for Fiscal and Administrative Services. "In return, we ask that the physician agrees to practice here for five years."

Currently Salem Hospital has 20 OB/GYNs on staff, and last year 3,320 babies were born at the hospital.

In May of next year, the hospital will open a new 200,000 square foot five-story building. Two of those floors will house Maternal Child Health services, and will include 12 birthing rooms, all with whirlpool tubs, a special care nursery and 36 mother-baby rooms, complete with private baths and sleeper couches.

Hospital President and CEO Resigns
July 24, 2002

With sincere regret, Salem Hospital Board of Trustees Chair Katherine Keene announced today that the Board has accepted the resignation of hospital President and CEO, Dennis Noonan. The resignation will be effective on September 30, 2002.
Mr. Noonan joined Salem Hospital in 1988 as the Executive Vice President for Fiscal Services and was named President and CEO in July 1994.

Working in partnership with the Board of Trustees, the medical community and the hospital staff, Mr. Noonan led many initiatives to advance the quality of health services provided in Marion and Polk Counties. These initiatives are highlighted by the development of a recruitment and retention plan to address critical labor shortages and the construction of the Center for Outpatient Medicine to provide space for needed services such as the Sleep Disorders Center, Imaging Services, and an expanded cancer treatment program.

In addition, Mr. Noonan led the effort to draft a long-range facilities development plan that will result in expanded services for women and children, emergency care and create more acute care beds when phase one of the project is completed in May 2003.

Some of the accomplishments Mr. Noonan achieved during his tenure at Salem Hospital include:

Recruiting a top-flight management team and supporting an active group of hospital volunteers who provide over 30,000 hours of service to the community each year.
Developing a clear vision statement that provides a guidepost for hospital employees as the organization strives to be a top performing hospital.
Guiding the development of service line planning to better identify community needs for services and the acquisition of West Valley Hospital in Dallas.
Collaborating with other area hospitals to standardize a financial assistance policy to ensure that those who lack economic means have access to needed healthcare services.

"The last five years have been difficult ones for hospitals with reductions in reimbursement and increasing costs of medical technology, pharmaceuticals and other items, but I am proud to say that Salem Hospital has weathered the storm," said Noonan. "A balanced budget for the coming year has been presented to the Board of Trustees that reflects a strong return to a level of financial performance necessary to maintain a state-of-the-art hospital."

Noonan went on to state, "While I am proud of what we have been able to achieve during my tenure at Salem Hospital, I look forward to new opportunities and challenges."

"Dennis is a consummate professional who is well liked by all who have had the opportunity to work with him," said Keene. " He is a person of integrity and character. We will miss him and we wish him every success in his new pursuits."

According to Keene, the Board of Trustees will conduct a national search for Mr. Noonan's successor. Decisions about interim leadership responsibilities at Salem Hospital will be made prior to Mr. Noonan's departure.

Hospital Foundation Awards Scholarships
July 9, 2002

The Salem Hospital Foundation recently awarded $60,400 to 52 students from Marion, Polk and Yamhill counties who are enrolled in a medical or medically related field.

The Foundation's scholarship program began in 1968. The first grant was awarded to a Salem Hospital employee enrolled in the Associate Degree of Nursing Program at Salem Vocational Tech., now known as Chemeketa Community College.

Since that initial grant, the hospital foundation has awarded over $650,000 to students in our community.

Several special scholarships were awarded in memory of various community members, including the John Alsever, M.D., physician scholarship, the Cass Bailey, M.D., physician scholarship, the Hattie Bratzel Kremen nursing scholarship, the Kathy DeMarrais nursing scholarship, the Carl and Olive Emmons nursing scholarship, the Rollin Haag nursing scholarship, the Harold and Elmera Richardson nursing scholarship, and the Haap Jackson Imaging scholarship.

Spirituality, Health and Healing Forum on CCTV in July
July 9, 2002

During the month of July, you can learn more about Spirituality, Health and Healing by watching Salem Hospital's Community Health Forum on CCTV.

Spirituality, Health and Healing, presented by Barry Heath, D.Min will be shown every Tuesday at 7 p.m. or Wednesday at 11 a.m. during July on CCTV, cable channel 23.

If you don't have cable, a videotape of the presentation can be checked out from
the Salem Public Library.

Valley Community Hospital Becomes West Valley Hospital
July 1, 2002

Pacific Health Horizons, the parent company of Salem Hospital, announced today that the purchase of Valley Community Hospital is final.

With the purchase, the name Valley Community Hospital will change to West Valley Hospital.

"The new name symbolizes a fresh start for the hospital," said Joyce Evans, administrator at West Valley. "We have big plans for both facilities and programs that will improve the delivery of healthcare here in Polk County."

Renovations, pending final approval from the city, include moving the hospital's main entrance to Washington Street, and revamping the ambulance entrance, as well as number of updates to the facilities appearance, including new paint and carpet. Renovations are scheduled to begin later this summer.

West Valley, which employs 118 staff members, is designated as a critical access hospital by the Oregon Department of Human Services, Health Division. This designation is provided to rural hospitals to receive reimbursement from Medicare to maintain operations of the hospital.

West Valley will continue to offer core services such as medical inpatient procedures, 24-hour emergency care, same day surgeries, rehabilitation, laboratory and radiology services.

Prostate Cancer Teleconference Scheduled for July 12
June 27, 2002

Salem Hospital and the American Cancer Society will be hosting the second annual prostate cancer teleconference on Friday, July 12, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the hospital's Wedel Conference Center, located at 665 Winter St. SE

This free teleconference will provide information from a variety of prostate cancer specialists on topics such as:
*Primary treatments.
*Complementary approaches to treatment.
*The current role of chemotherapy.
*Introduction to clinical research.
*Nutrition.

The event is open to anyone interested in learning more about prostate cancer. Lunch will be provided at no cost. To RSVP for lunch, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345.

Father Willis Steinberg Memorial Lecture Sold Out
June 27, 2002

Over 160 people are scheduled to attend the Father Steinberg Memorial Lecture on Religion, Spirituality and Medicine on Friday, June 28, from 9 a.m. to Noon at the hospital.

The featured presenter will be Harold Koenig, M.D., from Duke University Medical School. Dr. Koenig is a national speaker and researcher in the area of spirituality and healing, and has appeared on Wold News Tonight with Peter Jennings, and NBC Nightly News.

"This event recognizes Father Bill's work with physicians, and his interest in the impact of spiritual resources at the time of illness for patients and their families," said Barry Heath, the hospital's Director of Pastoral Care.

Father Bill served Salem Hospital as a volunteer chaplain, chaplain and Director of Pastoral Care before his death last year.

Dr. Koenig's presentation will be videotaped. For a copy of the tape, call the hospital's Community Relations Office at 503-561-5269.

Collaboration Culminates with Lease Signing
June 17, 2002

Salem Hospital, Valley Community Hospital (VCH) and Northwest Human Services (NWHS) announced the signing of a lease today that paves the way for NWHS to provide primary medical care in the Monmouth clinic building.

Northwest Human Services, a leader for over 30 years in providing advocacy, quality health care and social services to those in need in Polk and Marion Counties, has received a federal grant to expand health care services.

Part of the grant money will be used to open a clinic this fall in Monmouth. The clinic, which is scheduled to open in September, will be located at the current site of the Valley Community Hospital clinic in Monmouth.

The VCH Monmouth Clinic will close effective June 30, when David Childress, M.D., relocates to the Ashland-Medford area.

"Opening a clinic in Monmouth is the culmination of six years of planning by a number of organizations including Northwest Human Services, Valley Community Hospital and Salem Hospital, to be able to provide a sustainable healthcare presence in the area," said Paul Logan, Executive Director of Northwest Human Services.

Currently Northwest Human Services is recruiting staff for the clinic, which will initially include one physician and a physician assistant or nurse practitioner.

"Within the first year we plan to add an additional physician and a mental health counselor," said Logan. "And by the end of the second year, we'll also offer dental services."

"This facility is really a bonus for us," said Logan. "Valley Community and Salem Hospital provided us with such favorable lease terms, and the presence of an existing medical facility to move into saved us at least three to four months of planning in finding a suitable space."

According to Joyce Evans, Administrator at Valley Community Hospital, hospital staff are looking forward to partnering with Northwest Human Services in continuing to have a clinic in Monmouth that meets the healthcare needs of area residents.

"We are committed to improving the delivery of health care in our community," said Evans. "This agreement is another example of how healthcare providers can work together to meet the medical needs of our community."

Hospital Appoints New Vice Presidents
June 6 , 2002

Deborah Glass, M.S., R.N., has been promoted to Vice President of Patient Care at Salem Hospital. Glass was Director of Nursing, Support Services and Critical Care at Salem Hospital in the early 90s, and left to become a Vice President with FirstCare Health in Albany, Oregon. She then returned to Salem Hospital, and has been Director of Nursing Support Services since 1998.

Glass received a bachelor of science degree in Nursing from the University of Oregon Health Sciences Center, and a Masters of Science degree from Oregon Health and Sciences University in Portland.

As the Vice President for Patient Care at Salem Hospital, Glass is responsible for Critical Care/Emergency/Urgent Care, Maternal-Child Health, Medical/Surgical Nursing, Psychiatric Services, Social Services and support services.

Also, Beverly Bow has been named Vice President for Human Resources at Salem Hospital. Bow is responsible for ensuring that the hospital has high quality staff to meet the needs of our community. This includes Employment, Employee Relations, Compensation, Benefits, Employee Health and Education Services.

Prior to joining Salem Hospital, Bow was a principal in Perspective Consulting Group, a Portland area human resources consulting firm. She has also served in human resources vice president roles with Legacy Health System in Portland, and with a Roseburg hospital. She has a bachelor's degree from the University of Oregon, and a Master of Arts in Teaching degree from Reed College.

Cautious Kids Program Provides Week-Long Activity for Kids this Summer
May 20, 2002

Cautious Kids.
--It's fun.
--It's educational.
--It will help your six and seven year old learn about bicycle, water, animal and personal safety.

Speakers at this week-long safety program include Salem Hospital Trauma Nurses, representatives from the Humane Society, Salem Police Department and the Oregon Department of Transportation. Kids will also get their bicycles inspected.

All sessions will be held at Bush School, 755 University St. SE, from 9 a.m. to Noon on:
June 24 - June 28 July 22 - July 26
July 8 - July 12 July 29 - Aug. 2
July 15 - July 19

Cost for the week-long session is $35, but Salem Hospital will provide a limited number of scholarships. Kids will receive lots of great information, including a fingerprint I.D. kit, a bicycle safety coloring book, reflective stickers and a Cautious Kids T-shirt.

Kids must know how to ride a bike. For a registration form, call Salem Hospital at 561-5639 or Salem-Keizer Schools at 399-3121. Phone registrations will not be accepted.

Lifeline Offers Free Installation During May and June
May 3, 2002

In honor of Mother's Day and Father's Day, Salem Hospital is offering free installation ($50 value) of its Lifeline Program in May and June, when participants sign up for a minimum of two months of service.

Lifeline is a personal emergency response service that gives people the ability to live alone - safely and confidently - in their own homes. By pushing a small, lightweight, waterproof button, worn either around the neck or on the wrist, subscribers have immediate access to an emergency response center.

Salem Hospital has been offering Lifeline services since 1985, and over the years has helped thousands of seniors quickly get the medical attention they need. The hospital's Lifeline program currently has over 800 subscribers in Marion and Polk counties.

"Lifeline is an incredible program because it gives people the ability to live independently, without their family worrying about them falling down or having a medical emergency and being all alone," said Carol Ashcraft, Lifeline program manager.

For more information about Salem Hospital's Lifeline program call 503-561-6950.

Facial and Body Enhancement Lecture on CCTV in May
April 29, 2002

During the month of May, watch Salem Hospital's Community Health Forum on CCTV,
cable channel 23, and learn more about Facial and Body Enhancements. The talk is presented by Edwin Austin, M.D., Bruce Carter, M.D. and William Nisbet, M.D., members of the hospital's Medical Staff.

This panel of experts spoke at a free public lecture, sponsored by the Salem Hospital Foundation, in April.

The talk will be shown every Tuesday at 7 p.m. or Wednesday at 11 a.m. during May. If you don't have cable, a videotape of the presentation can be checked out from the Salem Public Library.

Get a Free Emergency Medical Record Card
In Honor of Emergency Medical Services Week, May 20 - 26
April 26, 2002

During National Emergency Medical Services Week, and all year long, staff in Salem Hospital's Emergency Department recognize the contributions of local Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel.

This week encourages awareness and understanding of the nation's EMS system, and seeks to provide public education on how to appropriately use the system by building awareness in recognizing and responding to medical emergencies. The week also celebrates the contributions of all members of the Emergency Medical Services team.
Approximately 62,000 patients are seen each year in Salem Hospital's Emergency Department, and a number of those patients are brought to the department by ambulance, with care beginning in the field.

"The contributions that our local EMS personnel make on a daily basis are tremendous, and support our community as a whole," said Jeff Solheim, RN, manager of the hospital's emergency department. "Their contributions to the emergency department are extremely important as we care, as a team, for each patient who enters our facility."

For a free Emergency Medical Record card, call the hospital at 503-561-5430. Information such as your medications, allergies, and conditions can be recorded on the card.

Special Event Scheduled for Displaced Workers
April 25, 2002

Thinking about making a career change? Ever wonder what it would take to get a job in the healthcare field? Well, now's your chance to find out.

On Thursday, May 9, from 6 to 9 p.m., Salem Hospital is holding a special event for people who may be displaced from their job, or looking to make a job change.

Participants can not only talk with staff from various Salem Hospital departments such as Nursing and Imaging, but representatives from colleges such as Linfield, Oregon Institute of Technology, Chemeketa and OSU will also be available to provide information about their various adult degree programs.

The event will be held in the hospital's Center for Outpatient Medicine, located at 875 Oak Street, across from the main hospital on Winter Street. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, call Salem Hospital at 503-561-5430.

Look Good, Feel Better
April 23, 2002

Salem Hospital and the American Cancer Society are cosponsoring a program for women with cancer called Look Good, Feel Better.

If you're receiving active treatment for cancer, and want to learn to combat the appearance-related side effects with various beauty techniques, plan to attend this free session.

The program will be held Thursday, May 2, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Salem Hospital's Regional Cancer Center, located in the Center for Outpatient Medicine, at
875 Oak St. SE. Registration is required by calling Beverly Smith, RN, at the hospital
at 561-5729.

Participants in the program also include the National Cosmetology Association, Cosmetic Toiletry and the Fragrance Foundation Association.

Herbal Medicine Lecture on CCTV in April
April 2002

During the month of April, you can learn more about Using Herbal Medicine Wisely by watching Salem Hospital's Community Health Forum on CCTV.

CCTV, cable channel 23, is running Revitalizing Your Heart With Proper Nutrition, presented by Robert Bonakdr, M.D., a clinical and research fellow in integrative medicine at the Scripps Institute in California. Bonakdr, who spoke at Salem Hospital in March, is active in combining modalities such as acupuncture, herbal medicine and stress reduction with conventional care.

His talk will be shown every Tuesday at 7 p.m. or Wednesday at 11 a.m. during April.
If you don't have cable, a videotape of the presentation can be checked out from the Salem Public Library.

Exchange Three Cans of Non-Perishable Food Items for a Free Cholesterol Screen Courtesy of Salem Hospital
March 26, 2002

Staff from Salem Hospital's Regional Laboratory Services is sponsoring a food drive during National Medical Laboratory Week, April 14 - 20.

Stop by the Salem Hospital Regional Laboratory outpatient services center, located at 869 Medical Center Drive NE, on Thursday, April 18, between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. and donate three cans of non-perishable food and you'll get a free cholesterol screening at that time. (Fasting for a minimum of eight hours will give the best results). Staff will do a simple blood draw, and the results will be mailed to you.

National Medical Laboratory Week recognizes medical laboratory professionals and certified pathologists who play a vital role in protecting the public's health.
All food collected will be donated to area food banks.

For more information, call Salem Hospital's Regional Laboratory Services
at 503-561-5455.

Foundation Presents Annual Gehlar Lecture
March 19, 2002

The Salem Hospital Foundation is presenting the annual Gehlar Nutrition Lecture: Using Herbal Medicine Wisely, on Thursday, March 21, at 7 p.m. at the hospital, located at 665 Winter St. SE.

Featured speaker Robert Bonakdr, M.D., is a clinical and research fellow in integrative medicine at the Scripps Institute in La Jolla, California. He is active in combining modalities such as acupuncture, herbal medicine and stress reduction with conventional care.

Dr. Bonakdr lectures nationally on complementary and alternative medicine.
The presentation, sponsored by the Salem Hospital Foundation, is free, and reservations are not required. For questions, call the hospital at 561-5639.

Salem Hospital Foundation Scholarship Applications Available
March 1, 2002

Scholarship applications from the Salem Hospital Foundation are now available for people studying a medical or medically related field. Students must be accepted into, or have applied to, a formal training program, either full or half-time.

Special awards are presented in memory of John Alsever, M.D., Cass Bailey, M.D., Kathy deMarrais, Carl Emmons, M.D. and his wife Olive, Roland Haag, Happ Jackson, Hattie Bratzel Kremen and Elmera (Tiny) Ricahrdson.

Last year, the Foundation granted $49,600 in scholarships, and has awarded more than $600,000 since 1968.

The Salem Hospital Foundation is a charitable organization that supports medical and medically related projects. The Foundation's 15 volunteer directors help raise funds and manage the resources of the Foundation.

To receive a scholarship application packet, contact Angela Nelson at (503) 561-5438 or E-mail: angie.nelson@salemhospital.org. Deadline to submit an application is May 31, with selections expected by the end of June.

Hospital Home Care Staff Chosen as Clinicians of the Year
February 27, 2002

Two Salem Hospital employees have been chosen as Clinicians of the Year for 2002 by the Oregon Association for Home Care.

Pam Miller, an occupational therapist in the hospital's Home Care Department and Rochelle Morris, a home health aide, both were recognized for outstanding clinical practice in delivering direct care in the home.

Award recipients are nominated by association members.

Staff from the hospital's Home Care Department provide in-home care to people recovering from an illness or injury. Last year Salem Hospital's home care staff made more than 45,000 visits to people in our community.

Hospital Sponsors Free Seminar on Preventing Complications from Diabetes
February 18, 2002

Salem Hospital is offering a free workshop titled, "Preventing Complications from Diabetes," on Saturday, March 16, from 8:30 a.m. until Noon at the hospital.

Topics presented include Staying Healthy With Good Nutrition, by dietitian Denise Cedar; Preventing Diabetes Complications, by endocrinologist Cort Garrison, M.D., and Coping With a Chronic Illness, by Bill Hennings, Ph.D.

A session in Spanish will be held from 10 a.m. to Noon that day.

The event is free, and registration is not required. For more information, contact the hospital's Diabetes Education Center at 561-6990.

The event will be held in the hospital's Wedel Conference Center at 665 Winter St. SE.

Salem Hospital Recognizes Long-Time Employees
February 15, 2002

On Friday, Feb. 15, at the Wittenberg Inn in Keizer, 225 Salem Hospital employees will be recognized for their years of service to the hospital.
Joan Gonzalez is being honored for 40 years of dedicated service to Salem Hospital. Gonzalez has spent her entire career in the hospital's distribution department.

Long-time employees Arleta Day, distribution, Eileen Featherstone and Sheila Johnstone, nursing and Sherrie Kener, surgery, are being honored for 35 years of service. Ten other employees are being recognized for 30 years of dedication to Salem Hospital.

Speakers at the evening's festivities will include hospital president and CEO Dennis Noonan, and Katherine Keene, CEO of SAIF Corporation. Keene is the chairperson of the Salem Hospital Board of Trustees.

Hospital's Heart Program Receives High Marks
January 31, 2002

Salem Hospital was recently recognized by the Oregon Hospital Outcomes Project (OHO) for using fewer transfusions for open heart surgery. The national average in patients receiving coronary bypass is 1.9 units of donor blood. In Oregon, it's 1.5 units, and in Salem the average is 0.9 units per patient.

"It's important to realize that most patients undergoing open heart surgery at Salem Hospital will not require a transfusion," said Thomas Winkler, M.D., cardiothoracic surgeon. "However, for many years we have made reduction in blood usage a priority. This has involved close collaboration with anesthesiologists, cardiologists, pulmonologists, nephrologists, laboratory services, specially trained nurses and primary care physicians," said Winkler.

According to the OHO project, fewer blood transfusions correlate with fewer postoperative complications, as well as help reduce medical treatment costs.

Last year, 292 heart surgery procedures were performed at Salem Hospital. The Oregon Hospital Outcomes project is designed to define outcomes in selected procedures performed in both Oregon and other hospitals in the United States.

Open House for Nurses and Nursing Students
January 25, 2002

Whether you're a soon-to-be graduate of a nursing program, or are already a nurse and want to learn more about nursing opportunities at Salem Hospital, Salem's largest private employer, stop by an open house on Monday, Feb. 18, from 2 to 6 p.m.

The event will be held in the hospital's Wedel Conference Center, located in the lower level of the hospital at 665 Winter St. SE, in Salem.
You'll have a chance to talk with nurse managers and staff from a number of areas including critical care/emergency, maternal/child health and surgical services.

We'll also have refreshments, drawings for prizes, and tours. If you have questions, call Salem Hospital at 503-561-5183 or 1-800-825-5199.

Medical Staff Elects Officers for 2002
January 17, 2002

Thomas A. Kahan, M.D., has been elected President of Salem Hospital's Medical Staff for 2002. Dr. Kahan, who specializes in obstetrics and gynecology, has been a member of the hospital's medical staff since 1978. He received his medical degree from the University of Colorado in Boulder, and completed his obstetrics/gynecology internship/residency in Dallas, Texas. He has traveled to Ecuador to provide gynecologic care to under-served patients.

He replaces Hung Tran, M.D. Maggie Bennington-Davis, M.D., has been elected President-Elect of Salem Hospital's Medical Staff. Dr. Bennington-Davis, a psychiatrist, has been a member of the hospital's medical staff since 1994. She received her medical degree at Oregon Health and Sciences University, where she also completed her Psychiatry internship/residency. She is the immediate past president of the Oregon Psychiatric Association, and is a member of the planning and advisory board for the state mental health division. Dr. Bennington-Davis will be the first woman president of the hospital's medical staff.

The Salem Hospital medical staff is comprised of over 400 members representing all specialties.

Pacific Health Horizons is purchasing Valley Community Hospital
January 15, 2002

Valley Community Hospital (VCH) has announced that Pacific Health Horizons (PHH), the parent organization of Salem Hospital, intends to purchase the hospital's assets including its accounts receivable and inventory. This transaction will continue the close association maintained by the two hospitals over many years aimed at cooperatively providing healthcare services to the citizens of Polk County.

Valley Community Hospital Board Chairperson, Lane Shetterly, indicated that the purchase by PHH was contingent upon VCH obtaining the designation of "Critical Access Hospital." VCH was surveyed recently. The Oregon Department of Human Services, Health Division, has recommended certification effective December 27, 2001. This will allow VCH or a successor to VCH, which VCH and PHH are working to establish, to focus on delivering an array of outpatient services including emergency department care, outpatient surgery as well as rehabilitation, laboratory and radiology services. PHH anticipates that a new entity on the VCH premises will also maintain a six-bed inpatient unit to receive and stabilize inpatients arriving at the hospital. Additional services may be added as community needs change.

Mr. Shetterly noted that he is pleased with the new relationship with PHH and Salem Hospital noting, "We have defined an appropriate array of healthcare services that will allow us to maintain a stable presence in our community. PHH will bring needed resources to our community that are not generally available in rural hospitals."

PHH plans to make an investment of up to $1.5 million to upgrade existing facilities.

Katherine Keene, PHH and Salem Hospital Board Chairperson, noted that "Salem Hospital serves the citizens of both Marion and Polk Counties as a regional medical center. We are pleased that we will have a continuing role in maintaining needed healthcare services in Polk County." She commended VCH for the positive actions taken in recent months to help stabilize the organization leading up to this proposed transition to PHH ownership.

Press Release Archives - 2004
Press Release Archives - 2003
Press Release Archives - 2002
Press Release Archives - 2001

For more information, contact
Community Relations at (503) 561-5269 or cr@salemhospital.org.