2010-q4-winter-wellaware

MID-COLUMBIA MEDICAL CENTER Winter 2010www.mcmc.net

Well Care atWater’s Edge

The Un-Diet

Sharing theJourney

Well Care atWater’s Edge

The Un-Diet

Sharing theJourney

WA WINTER 2010.qxd:Well Aware Spring 08 12/29/09 1:12 PM

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A 2009 To Remember

Dear Neighbor,

Warm wishes for a happy

and healthy new year

from all of us at Mid-Columbia

Medical Center.

The past year was noteworthy

in many respects for MCMC. It was

fitting that, as we commemorated

the 50th anniversary of the “new”

hospital on 19th Street, we also

celebrated some of the most

significant accomplishments in our

history.

It is virtually impossible to miss

one of those, which you can see

taking shape at land’s end in the

exciting new Lone Pine Village

development. Our new Water’s

Edge building is proceeding right

on schedule toward its spring 2010

completion date, and in this issue

of Well Aware we update you on

its progress.

Major construction projects

have been few and far between at

MCMC over the years. Our most

recent was almost a decade ago,

when Celilo Cancer Center opened.

We all know what an important

community asset that program has

become, and I truly expect Water’s

Edge to have a similar impact on

our community with its focus on

programs of prevention, wellness

and helping people achieve and

enjoy optimal health.

Last year also marked the

beginning of our unique new

partnership with our state’s

preeminent academic health

institution, Oregon Health &

Science University. I cannot be

more pleased with the community

reception the two new MCMC/

OHSU ventures have received.

Both the orthopedics clinic and

the new full-time cardiology

practice of Dr. David Guarraia have

been busy virtually from Day One, a

testament to the pent-up demand

for these critical specialty services

in our community.

And while I am on the subject

of demand for medical services, I

am also happy to report that 2009

was a very successful year for us

in terms of adding primary care

health professionals to our medical

staff. There are now more primary

care professionals serving this

community than at any other time

in our history. Increasing access

to primary care services was one

of our biggest accomplishments

last year.

I’m happy to say we reached

more milestones in 2009 than I can

list here. I haven’t even mentioned

becoming the only area hospital to

offer digital mammography or

earning accreditation for our breast

care center, a first among Oregon

hospitals.

There are some significant

challenges awaiting us in 2010, but

we know we will be meeting them

with a lot of positive momentum.

Duane Francis

President/CEO


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Inside ScoopWinter 2010

One Way to WellnessIn a non-threatening environment, Water’s EdgeHealth and Wellness Center will offer medicalexpertise and state-of-the-art equipment toimprove the health status of its members.

The Un-DietHealthy Weight Solutions has helped Sky Morganand many others enjoy long-term weight loss.

Sharing the JourneyAfter each suffers a stroke weeks apart, mother and daughter tackle the path to recovery together with the help of MCMC’smPower rehabilitation program.

Cancer Quick Lecture Series

Go Red For Women

Surgical PrecisionMCMC’s surgical quality scores remain amongthe highest in the nation, while infection ratesstay among the lowest.

Mind Body Calendar

Planetree Winter Lecture Series

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A Designated Planetree Patient-Centered Hospital (ON THE COVER)Well Care at Water’s EdgeScheduled to open this spring, MCMC’s new center in Lone Pine Village will offerconvenient access to an array of health, wellness and lifestyle programs.

It is Our Mission…To lead and act as a catalyst in promoting

health for all people.

To recognize the individual as a whole human being with different needs that

must be enthusiastically met.

To communicate a vision of health, art,education, technology and create a

center for healing which will continuallyupgrade the quality of life in the community

environment in which we live.

To empower people to become partners in their health care.

Mid-Columbia Medical Center is a not-for-profit healthcare organization offeringcomprehensive services to the Mid-Columbia

Region, and is governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees:

Robert L.R. BaileyDaniel Boldt

Paul Cardosi, M.D.Duane Francis

Gretchen Kimsey Carina Schmidt

Wallace Wolf, Jr., D.V.M.

WellAwareis published by

Mid-Columbia Medical Center1700 East 19th StreetThe Dalles, OR 97058

(541) 296-7545

Photo Credits: Cover, pages 4, 5, 6, 14 Jim SemlorPhotography; page 8 Lori Russell

Printed with Agri based inks on recycled paper,10% post consumer. All rights reserved. No information may

be reprinted without the written consent of MCMC.


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Scheduled to open thisspring, MCMC’s newcenter in Lone PineVillage will offerconvenient access to an array of health,wellness and lifestyleprograms.

Well Care at Water’s Edge

Continued on page 11

that make it easier for residents of thearea to access the programs they needfor healthier living.

“We moved beyond just being aprovider of inpatient hospital care yearsago, but Water’s Edge is the clearest signto date that we are committed to amodel of well care,” says Duane Francis,MCMC president and CEO. “Our missionis to create healthier communities. To dothat successfully we need to continue todevelop and offer comprehensive newmedical and wellness programs and, tothe extent possible, we need to offerthem out in our communities.”

Water’s Edge will be the new homefor an array of existing MCMC programsin addition to several new ones,

including the innovative Water’s EdgeHealth and Wellness Center (see relatedarticle on Page 5).

Programs that will relocate toWater’s Edge will include MCMC’s:

• Sleep center• Physical rehabilitation,

including physical, occupational and speech therapy programs

• Cardiac rehabilitation• Pulmonary rehabilitation• Medical symptom

reduction clinic• Living Healthy with Diabetes

education program• Internal medicine

physician offices• Nutrition therapy

By Dick Baltus

It is an impressive addition to theregion’s commercial real estate

landscape, a head-turner at the footof The Dalles Bridge, and thecenterpiece of an exciting new mixed-use development at the edge of theColumbia River.

But as striking as MCMC’s newWater’s Edge center is physically (andit’s not even finished yet), it is anequally impressive piece ofsymbolism. It’s a three-story, 60,000-square-foot sign of MCMC’scommitment to improving the healthof the Mid-Columbia communities itserves.

Scheduled for completion thisspring, Water’s Edge is MCMC’s firstmajor construction project since theopening of Celilo in 2001. Like thecancer center, the new facility wasmotivated by the hospital’s desire toexpand into new services and settings


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Mid-Columbia Medical Centerofficials weren’t necessarily

searching for a poster boy for thehospital’s new Water’s Edge Healthand Wellness Center. They werelooking for a physician to helpdevelop and oversee the uniquemedical-fitness philosophy that will bethe cornerstone of the center’sapproach to fitness and wellness.

But, in The Dalles internist PaulCardosi, M.D., they found both.

As medical director of the center,scheduled to open this spring in LonePine Village, Dr. Cardosi will lead a

team of health and fitnessprofessionals helping individuals meettheir goals for wellness.

Each member will have his or herown motive for joining — some toimprove already healthy lifestyles,others to prevent or better managechronic health conditions.

And, as both a physician andsomeone who wasn’t always ascomfortable in the company of fitnessenthusiasts as he is now, Dr. Cardosiwill be able to relate to them all.

More on that later, but first adescription of the truly unique

In a non-threateningenvironment, Water’s

Edge Health andWellness Center will

offer medical expertiseand state-of-the-art

equipment to improvethe health status of

its members.

Continued on page 10

One Way to Wellness

Health and WellnessCenter Medical Director

Paul Cardosi, M.D.

By Dick Baltus


Sky Morgan

Healthy Weight Solutions has helped Sky Morgan and many others enjoy long-term weight loss.

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By Cory Eldridge

For Sky Morgan, losing weightwas a matter of breathing.

Just breathing. Not a fad diet or a hardcore,

thigh-burning, vein-poppingexercise regimen. Just simple,mindless breathing. Who eventhinks about it?

That was Morgan’s problem.But two years after attending

MCMC’s Healthy Weight Solutionsclass and learning what breathing— real, deep, thoughtful, bellybreathing — could do for him,along with a set of additionaltools, Morgan has kept off 20pounds. He now describes himselfas a different person, one who candeal with stress and is more awareof himself.

Morgan was a loan officerwhen he started the program in2007 (he’s now a senior mortgagebanker). With that job and thebigger responsibilities of being ahusband and father of twoyoungsters, he had a good dose of daily stress. He dealt with it,mindlessly, by eating.

“I would come to work, sitdown and organize my day, whichwas supposed to make me lessstressed,” he says. “But really itjust stressed me out first thing inthe morning. I didn’t think I wasstressed. I thought I was hungry, so I would eat.”

Morgan’s habits – a lack ofexercise and regular overeating –weren’t the shocking kind: he didthings that creep up on a personover a few decades. His wife,Mandi, a nurse at MCMC, couldsee the long-term consequences.She convinced him to attendHealthy Weight Solutions.

Like many MCMC programs,Healthy Weight Solutions takes aholistic approach, focusing on howthe mind plays as important a partin weight gain as food and lack of exercise do. The class includeseight weekly two-hour sessions.

Morgan says he doubted theprogram could help, thinking it was some diet or exercise gimmick.Like everyone, he knew he shouldeat right and exercise often, sowhat could he really learn?

The first class won him overcompletely.

Jennifer Zimmerman, clinicaldietitian at MCMC, runs theprogram. She describes the themeof the first class as awareness, andit sets the tone for the program.

During that first two-hoursession, Jill Kieffer, a nurse atMCMC, collects the participants’medical history and takes weightand body-mass measurements.

Then Kieffer leads the class ina “body scan,” which involves theparticipants closing their eyes,

TheThe Un-Diet


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taking deep breaths, and paying attention to how theirbodies feel. This skill, learned on the first day andcontinued throughout the class, has been the key forMorgan.

The body scan and deep breathing Morgan says, actlike a mini-meditation that makes you pay attention toyour body and breath, which, for a short and refreshingtime, takes your mind off stress. This is often calledmindfulness, and its goal is to make you better able todeal with your thoughts and surroundings.

Now, before and after Morgan organizes his day, hetakes a few, deep breaths, devoting his attention to howhe’s breathing and how his body feels. What he learned,quickly, was that his mid-morning hunger was actually stress.

Along with a strong focus on stress and bodyawareness, the class spends a lot of time on healthyeating habits. Zimmerman points out this is differentfrom a diet.

“We don’t teach a diet,” she says. “Research provesthey don’t work in the long term because they don’t getto human behavior and habits. We teach how to makelifestyle changes to lead healthier lives in areas ofnutrition, exercise and stress management.”

The class also covers exercise, and gives its studentsa two-month pass to MCMC’s fitness center. But again,just as it doesn’t push a diet, Healthy Weight Solutionsdoesn’t prescribe exercises. More time is spent showinghow a person can create a more active lifestyle by doingsimple things throughout the day.

Now Morgan, who has never been much of anexerciser, often parks his car a few blocks from work to give himself more of a walk.

In the end though, he says it’s all about thebreathing. It destroys his stress and gives him a way to deal with it, cutting away tension and the desire for food.

It’s even become a self-sustaining cycle, he says.“Just knowing I have a tool for dealing with stress takesaway my stress.”

The Tradition of Compassion Philanthropy Awards ceremonywas designed by the Mid-Columbia Health Foundation

Board of Directors to honor and celebrate the giving spirit that isan integral part of our community. At the heart of the award isthe desire to celebrate this giving spirit and to inspire us all togreater levels of compassion.

Philanthropy is an often-misunderstood word. To put itsimply, philanthropy is just people helping other people. It cantake many forms:

• The act of helping a neighbor through a crisis.• Supporting those in need in the community

through cash donations.• Assisting the community through the

gift of time and talent.

The heart of philanthropy beats with a strong sense ofcommunity spirit and leadership. The heart of philanthropy isstrong with a desire to help others for no personal or financialgain. The heart of philanthropy is strong and courageous; it isone thing that makes our community special.

The foundation staff is moved each year by the multitudesof individuals and businesses that give so freely of time, talentand money. It is truly an honor to participate in the TOC awards.

Nominations are now being accepted for the Fourth AnnualTradition of Compassion Philanthropy Awards. Help us celebrateour community heroes by nominating a person or business inone of the following categories:

• Outstanding Corporate Philanthropist• Outstanding Community Service Organization• Outstanding Philanthropist• Outstanding Volunteer• Outstanding Youth Volunteer

To keep with the spirit of giving, the Health Foundation willpresent the recipient in each category with an award of up to$500 to give to the charity of their choice.

The community is invited and encouraged to nominatepeople and businesses who demonstrate giving and compassion.Award recipients will be honored at a special celebration onThursday, March 4, 2010 at the Columbia Gorge DiscoveryCenter.

For more information or to submit your nomination, go towww.mcmc.net/mchf to download a nomination form. You canalso contact the Mid-Columbia Health Foundation at541.296.7275 or via email at [email protected]. Nominationsfor 2010 are accepted until Thursday, January 28, 2010.

Now AcceptingCompassionAwards Nominations

Like many MCMC programs,Healthy Weight Solutions takes a holistic approach, focusing onhow the mind plays as importanta part in weight gain as food and lack of exercise do.


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Wanda Lucas and her daughter Tami Simonsenjoy a challenge. While competing

together in bowling and pool leagues, they havecheered each other’s successes and met “nearmisses” with humor.

Last fall, both mother and daughter confrontedchallenges neither anticipated ever having toovercome together. Both Wanda and Tami sufferedstrokes within weeks of one another.

“Mom’s stroke affected her left side and mineaffected my right,” says Simons. “If we had afamily reunion, we’d win the three-legged race.”

Just days before her 70th birthday, Wanda wasworking as a cashier at Walmart when she beganhaving difficulty bagging a customer’s purchases.“My left hand just wouldn’t work right,” she says.

The Hood River resident does not remembercollapsing at her register or the trip to theemergency room where it was determined that shehad had a stroke. She was flown by helicopter toProvidence St. Vincent Medical Center in Portland.

The stroke left Wanda unable to walk or moveher left hand. “I had to pick up my left hand withmy right and move it where I wanted,” she says.Her speech and vision were also impacted.

After a week in Portland, Wanda wastransferred to mPower, the acute inpatient

After each suffers a stroke weeks apart,

mother and daughtertackle the path to

recovery together with the help of MCMC’s

mPower rehabilitationprogram.

Sharingthe

JourneyBy Lori Russell

mPower patients Tami Simons and her mother Wanda Lucas


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rehabilitation program at Mid-Columbia Medical Center.

The mPower staff works withabout 100 patients a year who sufferfrom the effects of stroke, trauma,brain and spinal cord injuries,amputations, hip fractures, burns,rheumatoid arthritis and severeosteoarthritis. The program’sinterdisciplinary team of healthprofessionals includes physical,occupational and speech therapists; anurse, a social worker, a psychologist,a dietitian, a recreational therapist, apharmacist and a certified nurseassistant. The program is supervisedby medical director, Dr. Trey Rigert, aspecialist in physical and rehabilitativemedicine. Patients like Lucas workone-on-one with therapists threehours per day, five days a week.

“If someone wants to get better,you couldn’t go to a better place,”Wanda says of her experience inmPower.

While Wanda was working torecover at MCMC, her children werecaring for her husband Walter, who isconfined to a wheelchair. Tami, wholives in Cascade Locks, helped outafter a full day managing a grouphome for adults with disabilities.

The very day Wanda wasdischarged from mPower, Tami beganfeeling dizzy. Within a few days, herright foot and arm felt cold and heavy.Less than a week after her motherarrived home, Tami was admitted toProvidence Hood River MemorialHospital where it was determined shetoo had suffered a stroke.

Tami is only 45, but this was her

“If someone wants to getbetter, you couldn’t go to abetter place.” — Wanda Lucas

mPower Recognized for Quality Care

with the other patients became one ofthe highlights of her stay on the unit.

Depending on their need forrehabilitation, patients receivetreatment at mPower from five to 30days. Wanda and Tami both stayed twoweeks.

Now living at home, both motherand daughter go to outpatientrehabilitation therapy twice a week.Tami still wears a rigid plastic brace onher right foot for stability and playsbowling and baseball games on her Wiito improve her balance and coordination.She also gets exercise chasing after her14-month-old grandson.

Despite the challenges that remainahead, mother and daughter face thefuture with good humor. “I don’t thinkeither of us would have been in asgood of shape if we hadn’t gone tomPower,” says Tami.

“The people are wonderful there,”adds her mom. “They really are.”

Mid-Columbia Medical Center’smPower Acute InpatientRehabilitation program has beenawarded a three-year accreditationfrom the Commission onAccreditation of RehabilitationFacilities. CARF accreditationindicates that mPower meetsrigorous internationally recognizedstandards for service and quality.

The first step towardaccreditation began in February2008, when the mPower programunderwent an in-depth review of itsservices. Last October a team ofprofessional CARF surveyors visitedthe unit for two days to interview

staff, review documents and observethe services provided to patients.

The MCMC program received“exemplary” ratings, the highest ofthree possible ratings, in 12 areas.

“All the surveyors actively workin the rehabilitation field and theyknow what is out there,” saysmPower director Brandon Strizich.“CARF has such high qualitystandards, and our accreditationshows we are meeting or exceedingthose standards.”

To request information aboutthe mPower Acute InpatientRehabilitation program, call 541-506-6901.

second stroke. She had suffered a heartattack in February 2008.

“I’m really grateful to the physicaltherapist at the hospital whorecommended that I go to mPower,” she says. “Otherwise, I would have been trying to cope at home.”

Tami, who moved into the room hermother once occupied on the unit, saysthe challenge of recovering from a strokewas hard work. “At mPower, you can’tcall in sick. My right hand was useless,but the first day there, they told me I had to get dressed.”

Eventually, Tami found a way intoher clothes and down to the communaldining room for meals. Time spent there


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wellness center that is coming to lifeinside the impressive 60,000-square-footWater’s Edge facility.

The concept of a medical fitnesscenter is to provide individuals with acomprehensive and multi-dimensionalapproach to wellness that mergestraditional fitness concepts withmedically supervised activities and an array of health services, says Dr. Cardosi.

“The goal is fairly simple; we wantto offer more opportunities for people ofall health levels to start and/or maintainexercise programs,” he says.

As adults age into their 40s, 50s andbeyond, Dr. Cardosi says, many begin toexperience the onset of health problems,which often are related to a sedentarylifestyle. Exercise can solve manyproblems, but many individuals arereluctant — or don’t know how orwhere — to begin.

Dr. Cardosi thinks Water’s EdgeHealth and Wellness Center will be theperfect starting point.

“Exercise is powerful medicine,” he says. “There are countlessneurophysiological changes that canoccur as a result of maintaining a regular exercise program, from improvedlearning skills, memory and mood tobetter overall health.”

People can use exercise to improveback pain, lower blood pressure, staveoff the onset of diabetes or improvesymptoms, recover from injuries andmuch more.

Most people understand thebenefits of exercise, Dr. Cardosi says, butnot everyone feels comfortable in thetraditional fitness center environment.And many have needs that requirespecial equipment or close monitoring by medically trained staff.

That is the niche Water’s EdgeHealth and Wellness Center will fill in the Mid-Columbia region. Water’s

Edge members will have access to amultidisciplinary team of medical andfitness professionals and state-of-the-artequipment designed to accommodatevarying degrees of health status andfitness levels.

“Some of our equipment willmonitor members’ performance andstore the data so that I can track theirprogress and measure the effectivenessof the programs we design,” Dr. Cardosisays. “We’ll even have equipment thatyou can push a wheelchair right up into.”

The center’s medical-fitnessphilosophy, and its proximity to the othermedical programs in the Water’s Edgebuilding (see related article on Page 4),provide an ideal setting for individuals

recovering illnesses and rehabbing frominjuries in addition to those who areseeking fitness and training guidance,nutritional counseling and other wellnessservices.

While Dr. Cardosi predicts theWater’s Edge membership will becomposed largely of people interested inthe medically supervised component ofthe center, he says it also will appeal tomore experienced fitness enthusiasts and competitive athletes as well.

With three pools, the center will beoffering aquatic therapies, and an arrayof group fitness programs will be

available, including yoga, tai chi, Pilates,group cycle, aerobics, circuit training and water exercise.

The emphasis will be on creating a non-threatening environment wherepeople have access to the facilities,guidance and expertise they need toachieve their best quality of life.

“We want to make people feelcomfortable and at ease and providewhatever level of supervision andguidance they need to foster success,”Dr. Cardosi says.

Water’s Edge Health and WellnessCenter, he adds, is the kind of place he wishes he could have joined about 20 years ago.

One Way to WellnessContinued from page 5

The dazzlingview from thefuture Water's

Edge Healthand Wellness

Center.


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What You’llFind…Medically SupervisedProgrammingMembers who take advantage of themedical components of Water’s Edgeprogramming will benefit from anextensively trained staff of healthprofessionals that is directed by aphysician and includes certified fitnessspecialists, exercise physiologists,physical therapists, dietitians, healtheducators and others.

State-of-the-Art Fitness TechnologyWater’s Edge Health and WellnessCenter will be home to an advancedexercise facility that features the latestfitness/wellness technology, includingTechnoGym cardio equipment andKinesis Circuit training and stretchingmodules.

Therapy PoolsWater’s Edge will feature threeseparate pools for exercise andtherapy.

On-Site CaféFor healthy dining and cookingdemonstrations.

Family FriendlyWater’s Edge members will haveaccess to an array of services andactivities designed to encourage family involvement, including on-sitechildcare.

Water’s Edge also will house a dayspa, offering an array of services andmind-body therapies, includingesthetician services, massage, mineralbath therapy, reflexology and more.

A full-service restaurant will servenot only as a gathering place wheremembers of the public can enjoydelicious, healthy meals, it also will bethe site of healthy cookingdemonstrations and provide cateringservices for events in the Water’s Edgefacilities conference rooms.

“Many of the programs in thefacility will complement each other,”Francis says. “The goal is to make itmore convenient for patients, membersand members of the public to accessrelated services that may assist themin their return from illness or injury orto support their commitment towellness.”

Rehabilitation patients can useWater’s Edge swimming pools foraquatic therapy. Medical fitness centermembers can participate in thecooking demonstrations. MCMC’scomprehensive mind-bodyprogramming, such as yoga, massage,acupuncture and tai chi will be available to all.

“MCMC will always be here to take care of the medical needs of ourcommunity, but our goal first andforemost is to promote wellness,”Francis says. “And Water’s Edgerepresents our most significantinvestment in this endeavor. We areexcited to be able to offer this topeople throughout the region andhope they will take advantage of it. It’sgoing to be a special place. ”

Well Care atWater’s EdgeContinued from page 4

“I really am the perfect posterboy for this facility,” Dr. Cardosi says.

In high school, he was an all-state sprinter and considered himselfa pretty decent athlete – over thecourse of 100 yards.

“I had no endurance,whatsoever,” he recalls. “In college,my wife would go out for a run, and I’d ride alongside her on mymountain bike.”

Later, he tried accompanyingfriends on road bike trips, butinvariably he’d have to turn backearly. “I’d get home and half an hourlater my heart rate would still be140.”

Eventually, Dr. Cardosi learnedhe was simply pushing himself toohard, too fast. He started reading upon aerobic exercise, paying attentionto his heart rate, taking runs andgradually building up his speed anddistance, after starting at a pace soslow “it was embarrassing,” he says.

Within three months he wasable to keep up with everyone else.Today Dr. Cardosi is a regular aerobicexerciser.

“For 20 years I labored underthe misconception that I just couldn’tdo this, and every time I went out bymyself and failed again, I reinforcedthat notion. I had all this medicaltraining, but it took me that long tofigure out this might be a prettygood argument for some sort ofstructured guidance.

“A lot of people face this samesort of obstacle, and if we can helpthem overcome it, we can help themmake some very positive changes intheir lives.”

MEMBERSHIP INFORMATIONMembers are now being enrolled inWater’s Edge Health and WellnessCenter, with special reducedenrollment rates for those who join early.

To learn more about this unique center, call 541.506-5779.


All classes are at 1 p.m. in the Columbia Room, Celilo Cancer Center, The Dalles. There will be a different topicpresented each week; you are welcome to join us for one session or all sessions. Each seminar will last approximately30 minutes (unless otherwise noted) with a question and answer period following.

February2 Employment

45 minutesJessica Pembroke, MSW, CSWA How to address employmentconcerns, Family Medical Leave Act(FMLA), returning to work.

9 Healthy Meal CookingTracy Dugick, MS, RD, CDE; Mike Wheeler, chefLearn the elements of a healthy diet and how to preparehealthy meals.

16 Long Term Side Effects of Chemotherapy and Radiation45 minutesNina Van Es, MS, MSN What is cancer and how is ittreated? The long term side effectsof radiation and chemotherapy areexplored.

23 DepressionSteven Woolpert, MS, LPCUnderstanding depression and howto move beyond it.

March2 Genetic Testing

45 minutesSamuel Taylor IV, MDA review of what it means tohave a family history ofcancer, how this relates to breastcancer, and what familial cancersyndromes medical sciencerecognizes today. The discussion will also covergenetic mutation and what thatmay mean to an affected individualand to their family, while reviewingthe basics of genetic testingavailable today.

9 MoneyNathan Reagan, CPAThe purpose of this lecture is to help patients and survivorsbetter manage key money mattersthat may arise during or after cancer a experience. Medical tax deductions will also be discussed.

16 ActiveMichelle Schultens, PT, DBT

This lecture will exploreexercise options tohelp address many of the side effects

from cancer treatments.We will discuss ways to

improve range of motion, strength, and

balance; issues thatmay be affected during

treatment. Also, tips for improving overallendurance to assist you in returningto your normal routine andrecreational choices.

23 Expressive Artwork45 minutesNina Van Es, MS, MSN; Jessica Pembroke, MSW, CSWAPeople living with, through andbeyond cancer are turning tocreative ways of self-expression tocope with their illness. Thispresentation will focus on usingart-making as a means ofexpression. No art experience isrequired. Family members andcaregivers are welcome.

30 Acupuncture andChinese MedicineJan van Es, MAcOM, LAc Learn about Chinese Medicineand the role it can play in healing.Topics will include:

• Brief History of Chinese Medicine• History of Cancer Treatment

in Chinese Medicine• What Chinese Medicine

is used to treat• How Chinese Medicine can help

cancer patients and survivors

Cancer quick lecture Series

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www.hearttruth.gov

A health promotion project of Mid-Columbia Medical Center, Planetree Health Resource Center and North Central Public Health District.

e .

The Heart Truth is: heart diseasecan largely be prevented. Are you ready to love yourheart? Join womenthroughout The Dalles fortwo days of heart healthy funand activities on Friday, Feb. 5 and Saturday, Feb. 6.It’s time to learn how to loveyour heart. We can help. Go Red for Women’s HeartHealth February 5 and 6! For more information contactthe Planetree Health ResourceCenter at 296-8444.

Friday, Feb. 5 - Heart Expo • Free Health screenings • Free food demos & samples • Free Interactive exhibits & raffle drawings• Free Stress Oasis• Free Noon – Heart Walk through downtown • • Lunch available in the Heart Health Café

Saturday, Feb. 6 – 3k/5k The Heart Truth Walk/Run

• The Dalles Marina – 10 a.m. (On-site registration 9:30 a.m.)

To pre-register for the Walk/Run go towww.mcmc.net or pick up a registration form at Planetree Health Resource Center200 E. 4th St., The Dalles.

For Women – Feb. 5 & 6


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Mid-Columbia Medical Centercontinues to rank among the

nation’s top hospitals when it comesto surgical safety and infection control.

Recently released statistics from anational study called the Surgical CareImprovement Project show thatMCMC performed higher than thenational hospital average in each ofseven surgical measurements.

The ongoing study measureshospitals’ performance in criticalareas of the pre- and post-surgicalprocess, such as the best time toadminister pre-surgical antibiotics; the proper method of preparing thesurgical site; and steps to take tomaintain patients’ ideal bodytemperature during the surgery.

MCMC’s surgical quality scoresremain among the highest in

the nation, while infectionrates stay among the lowest.

SurgicalPrecision


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In each of these areas, MCMCand the other hospitals in the studyare expected to adhere to bestpractices that have proved toproduce the best outcome forpatients. In the most recent studyresults, MCMC had near 100 percentcompliance in each of the areasmeasured compared with nationaland state hospital averages, which inmost cases did not reach 90-percentcompliance.

Participating in the study notonly helps ensure quality care forMCMC surgical patients, it also haskept the hospital’s historically lowinfection rates welll lower than themajority of America’s hospitals.

In a measurement of what isknown as Class I infection rates,MCMC’s low rate of only 1.2 percentcompared with the national averagerange of 1 percent to 5 percent.

Class II infection rates at MCMC(only 0.9 percent in the most recentstudy) were also well below thenational average scores, whichreached as high as 15 percent.

Besides ensuring a safeenvironment, MCMC takes manyother measures to make the surgicalexperience a positive one for patients,says department director DickOhnemus, R.N.

“We emphasize comfort,efficiency and safety throughout thedepartment,” he says. “Whether a

patient is here for a day surgery or an inpatient procedure, our goal is to make the process smooth fromadmitting through the recoveryprocess.”

Ohnemus says his team has manyyears’ experience caring for surgicalpatients and significant extra training.The operating room is staffed with

an all-physician anesthesiology team,and recovery nurses all have ACLS(advanced cardiovascular life support)and PALS (pediatric advanced lifesupport) certifications.

“They focus exclusively on takingcare of surgical patients and ensuringthey have everything they need for acomfortable, successful recovery,”Ohnemus says.

INFE

CTIO

N R

ATES

INFECTION CONTROL RATES

National Hospital Average

0%

5%

10%

15%

National Hospital Average

With a Class I infection rate of only 1.2 percent, MCMC isranked among the nation’s best-performing hospitals.Performance in a second area, Class II infection rates, is evenbetter — less than 1 percent compared with the nationalaverage of between 3 percent and 15 percent.

Class Iinfection rates MCMC infection rates

are among the lowest of all U.S. hospitals!Class II

infection rates


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Mind, Body HealingPre-registration required; please call 296-7319to register unless otherwise indicated.

Living Healthy with DiabetesMONDAYS DAY CLASS: March 1, 8 & 15, 1 to 4 p.m. Medical Center Office PlazaThe Diabetes Self-ManagementEducation Class is a learningexperience for people who arenewly diagnosed or have ahistory of diabetes. In this class,you will learn blood sugarmonitoring, nutrition and mealplanning, stress reduction,medications and much more. We encourage a support personto attend, at no additional fee.Day and evening classes areavailable throughout the year.The Diabetes Education programat MCMC is accredited by theAmerican Diabetes Association.

Individual Diabetes Nutrition EducationMeet one on one with ourregistered dietitian. In this visit,our dietitian will review yourblood sugars in relationship toyour nutrition. Together you willcustomize a healthy eating planthat will support living healthywith Diabetes.

A Designated Planetree Patient-Centered Hospitalwww.mcmc.net

&disorders and physical activity. This 10-week clinic will guide patients inlifestyle changes that will help them toimprove their endurance and quality oflife. Goals within this program include:• decreasing shortness of breath;• improving physical conditioning andexercise tolerance;

• improving emotional well being.

Medical Symptom and Stress Reduction ClinicPeople with a wide variety of medicalconditions will benefit from this non-medication approach to improvingoverall health. People with chronic painor illness, autoimmune disorders,headache/migraines, hypertension,insomnia and much more can learn howto better manage symptoms and gaingreater control of your life.You will experience gentle meditativeyoga and other natural techniques,called mindfulness relaxation practices,to help you activate your own naturalhealing powers. The practice allows you to obtain:• lasting decreases in physical andpsychological symptoms;

• an increased ability to relax;• reductions in pain levels and anenhanced ability to cope with pain

• greater energy and enthusiasm for life;

• improved self-esteem; • an ability to cope more effectively with both short and long-term stressful situations.

Core Clinics

HealthWellness

Cardiac Rehabilitation ClinicCardiac Rehabilitation is the next stepafter a heart attack or heart surgery, adiagnosis of stable chest pain or othercardiac conditions. This 10-week clinicincludes supervised exercise, nutritionand education in heart healthmanagement. This clinic will help youregain strength, lessen fatigue whilelearning the tools to reduce cardiac riskfactors. Classes are offered throughoutthe year and covered by most insuranceplans.

Pulmonary Health ServicesThe Pulmonary Rehabilitation Programat Mid-Columbia Medical Center isdesigned for patients with chronicrespiratory disease (COPD), emphysema,asthma, chronic bronchitis, pulmonaryfibrosis and other chronic lungconditions. This class explores therelationship between breathing

Free ConsultationAre you interested in improving yourhealth but don’t know where to start?Do you wonder if your insurance willcover the cost of a program? Perhapsyou would like to try a free yoga classand would like to know how to signup? Contact Barb at 296-7414.

Winter 2010

UPCOMING EDUCATION PROGRAMS FROM THE CENTER FOR MIND & BODY MEDICINE AT MID-COLUMBIA MEDICAL CENTER

WA WINTER 2010.e$S:Well Aware Spring 08 1/3/10 9:18 AM

3

Infant MassageTUESDAY, February 166:30 to 8 p.m.Mid-Columbia Medical CenterConference Room 1 $20

Join Judy Shinn, LMT, certified infantmassage instructor and learn lovingtouch massage for your infant orchild ages newborn to 2 years. Theclass will focus on relaxing massage,colic relief and bonding betweenparent and child.

Massage TherapyCelilo Cancer Center60 min for $55/90 min for $80

Massage therapy is one of the oldestforms of healthpractice. It hasbeen used toenhancehealing and

general well being since ancienttimes. This therapy manipulates theskin, muscles and joints for musclerelaxation, improved circulation andstress relief. The therapists at Mid-Columbia Medical Center offer avariety of massage techniquestailored to your specific needs.

To schedule an appointment orpurchase a gift certificate for amassage, please call 506-6998.

Acupuncture TherapyCelilo Cancer Center

Acupuncture is onediscipline taken from the

heritage of Chinesemedicine. Thetechnique involvesthe insertion of veryfine needles atspecific points in the

body which have beenshown to be effective in

the treatment of variousconditions. Call 506-6998 for

appointments or for moreinformation.

Outpatient Therapy ServicesTwo Locations: Westside: 115 W. 4th St. 298-8985 MCMC Campus: 1810 E. 19th St., 296-7202Our multi-disciplinary approach to outpatient rehabilitation services includesphysical therapy, occupational therapy andspeech therapy.

ORTHOPEDIC REHABILITATIONOur physical and occupational therapists can evaluate and manage conditions/injuries of the joints and soft tissues for allages, to include dysfunctions of the hand,elbow, shoulder, hip, knee, foot and spine.

NEUROLOGICAL REHABILITATIONOur team is trained to treat a variety ofneurological conditions including stroke,multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injuries.

Specialized Rehabilitation ProgramsPhysical TherapyOsteoporosisThis program is designed to help individualsrecognize risk factors for osteoporosis andhow to address them, participate in anexercise program designed to increase bonestrength and posture, understand theimpact medications may have on bonehealth, and to make wise food choices toreduce advancing osteoporosis. Following a DEXA or bone density scan your doctor may refer you to the program.

Mobility & Seating ClinicThis clinic is designed forindividuals who need apower or manual wheelchairfor the first time (pediatric,geriatric, athletic); areexperiencing current orrecurrent issues withwounds; have had recent

changes in seating or positioning needs;have equipment that is older than fiveyears or is broken or unsafe.

Golf ClinicProper body mechanicsare essential to creatingan effective golf swingand preventing injury.

Open to golfers of all ages and abilities,this clinic will focus on helping youachieve the best posture, balance,flexibility and muscular endurance. Wetrain your body, the most important pieceof golf equipment, for a more powerful,consistent golf swing.

Vestibular Rehab & Balance TherapyVestibular rehabilitation is an alternativeform of treatment involving specificexercises designed to decrease dizziness,increase balance function and increasegeneral activity levels.

Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE)Completed by a skilled physical therapist,FCE is used by physicians, case managers,and employers to transition injuredworkers from disability to function andemployment. FCE is the single mostreliable measure to determine if asuccessful return-to-work is possible.

Occupational TherapyLymphedema Treatment and TherapyA therapy program that will help minimize and manage the symptoms of lymphedema.

Hand Therapy and Upper Extremity RehabilitationAppropriate for individuals with upperextremity wounds, scars, damaged tendonsor nerves, fractures and amputations.

Speech TherapyDysphagiaOur speech-language pathologists are specially trained in treating swallowing, voice and otherlanguage/communication impairments.

With a physician’s referral, these therapiesare covered by most insurance plans,including Medicare. We will assist you todetermine your insurance benefits.

&Therapeutic Body WorkHealing Therapies

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&T’ai Chi

Exercise Movement

ALL CLASSES ARE HELD AT CELILO CANCER CENTER

FOR BALANCE

MON 5:30-9 a.m. & 4-8 p.m.TUES/THURS 5:30-1 p.m. & 4-8 p.m.WED 5:30-9 a.m., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. & 4-8 p.m.FRI 5:30-9 a.m. & 4-6 p.m.SAT 7:30-11:30 a.m.

Fitness available to the communityFitness Members CommunityMembership Feeindividual: $30/mo., couples: $55/mo.

Pilates ClassThursday 10:30 & 11:30 a.m.This is a mat based core stabilizationclass lead by a certified Pilatesinstructor. Two, 45-minute classesoffered on Thursdays; located in theColumbia Room at Celilo. All fitnesslevels welcome. Space is limited; call541-296-7209 to pre-register.

Begins January 26$48 for 8-sessionspunch-card available

DAY CLASS: Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.Thursdays, 1 to 2 p.m.

EVENING CLASS: Tuesdays5:30 to 6:30 p.m., beginningstudents6:30 to 7:30 p.m., continuingstudentsT’ai Chi practices involve movementand meditation based on ancientChinese philosophies. Researchindicates T’ai Chi may promoteimproved mental and physicalhealth, vitality and longevity.

MONDAYS & THURSDAYS5:30 to 7 p.m., $40 for 5 sessions,$60 for 10 sessions or $10 drop-inUnwind and rejuvenate your mindand body with yoga stretching,breathing exercises and relaxation.This class is designed for all agesand levels of fitness. Increase yourflexibility, strength and balance.

MCMC Fitness Center

Please call 296-7201 for more information, or visit during hours listed. Medical Center Office Plaza, Ste. 226.

Gentle Yoga WEDNESDAYS8 to 9 a.m., $40 for 5 sessions, $60 for 10 sessions or $10 drop-inThis easy-does-it class is perfect forbeginners or people with limitedmobility. Stretch, breathe and ease yourway into greater flexibility.Did you overindulge over the holidays?

January Restorative Yoga WEDNESDAYS, January 13, 20 & 275 to 6:30 p.m. $10 – or may use Yoga punch cardRestorative yoga with Jill Kieffer is awonderful way to decompress, open yourmind and body, and deeply relax. If youare looking to decrease anxiety and theeffects of stress, this is the class foryou! No previous yoga experiencenecessary. Please bring a blanket and anempty stomach.

Flow Yoga WEDNESDAYS5 to 6:30 p.m., $40 for 5 sessions,$60 for 10 sessions or $10 drop-inJoin Jill Kieffer in this movingmeditation yoga class designed toincrease strength, flexibility and balancewhile decreasing stress and tension inthe body and mind. No previous yoga experience necessary.

Personal Training$45 for 1 hour; $120 for three 1-hour sessions. Contact Meghann at296-7209 for more information or toschedule an appointment.

Circuit TrainingTuesdays, Noon to 12:45 p.m.Interested in building strength whilesimultaneously getting a great cardioworkout? All fitness levels welcome. Thisclass is led by an exercise physiologist.

Sweetheart Yoga WEDNESDAY, February 105 to 6:30 p.m. $14 per coupleCome celebrate the spirit of Valentine’s Day by taking your Valentine on a special date. Treat that special person in your life to a yoga class that will stretch& strengthen your relationship throughpartner yoga … always a lot of heartfeltfun! No previous yoga experience needed.

Spanish Immersion YogaWEDNESDAYSFebruary 3, 10, 17 & 247 to 7:45 a.m. $40 for 4 weeksIf you are interested in learning a newlanguage while practicing gentle exercise,this class is for you. Gentle yoga instructionwill be slowly and simply presented inSpanish. Students will “learn with theirbodies and minds” and immediately begin torespond with movement to verbal commandsgiven in Spanish.

Yoga NidraWEDNESDAY, April 145 to 6:30 p.m.$10 – or may use Yoga punch cardThis introductory class with Jill Kieffer issuitable for both beginners and advancedyoga or meditation practitioners. Gentlebody-sensing yoga is followed by a laying-down guided meditation which leads to deeprelaxation of body and mind. In this mini-workshop you will beintroduced to the theory behind this potentpractice as well as receiving the full,exquisite experience. Developed by RichardMiller, PhD, this protocol is being usedaround the world for the treatment ofvarious issues including PTSD, depression,anxiety, self-esteem, pain control, insomnia,and non-medically responsive illnesses.

Yoga

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&Workshops ClinicsMind Body Healing

weight management. The multi-disciplinaryteam includes a dietitian, registered nurseand physician. The curriculum will includeresearch based integrative strategies thatare simple, practical and lifelong.

Managing Your Cholesterol for LifeTUESDAY, February 25:30 to 7 p.m.Medical Center Office Plaza$10 (fee includes one support person)If you have been told by your doctor thatyou have high cholesterol or you would liketo know about the relationship betweennutrition and cholesterol, join our dietitian,Jennifer Zimmerman and learn how dietchanges can play a big part in managingyour cholesterol. This clinic will help you todevelop a plan that is safe, sane andpromotes disease prevention.

Breathe Your Way to Better HealthPart 1 Wed., February 17 Part 2 Wed., February 247 to 8 p.m., Celilo Cancer Center$20 Learn simple breathing techniques that canhelp lower blood pressure and pulse,decrease stress and anxiety, improveimmune function, ease insomnia, improvedigestion and speed healing time. Wearloose comfy clothing.

Aromatherapy for Massage TherapistsMondays Part 1, March 1Part 2, March 86 to 8:30 p.m.Mind/Body Classroom$65 This class will cover essential oilchemistry, therapeutic effects of oils,safety and how to customize blends for massage clients. Instructor: BarbRobison, Certified Aromatherapist. At completion, a certificate for 5 CEcredits will be issued.

Introduction to MeditationWednesdays Part 1, March 3Part 2, March 107 to 8 p.m.Celilo Cancer Center$20 Mounting research is showing thebenefits of relaxation practices.In this basic class you will learn thehistory of meditation, the medicalbenefits and simple relaxationtechniques that you can use in yourpersonal plan of good health.

Personalized Health and WellnessIndividual Yoga ConsultationIndividual Fitness ConsultationIndividual Nutrition Consultation

Individual Certified DiabetesNurse Educator ConsultMeet one on one with our registerednurse and learn about the many aspectsof blood sugar management. In this visitour nurse will work withand customize the visitto your specificconcerns.

Open CommunityDrummingTHURSDAYFebruary 187 to 8 p.m.Medical Center Office PlazaDonations welcome!

Bring family and friends and experiencethe joy of recreational music making. No experience or equipment is necessary,and we guarantee immediate musicalsuccess. Join us and build community,laughter and good health.

Free and Clear –Tobacco Cessation Classes are held each month4 sessions, 6:30 to 8 p.m.Free. Call to registerThere’s never been a better time to quitsmoking or using tobacco than right now.Freshstart provides you with the structureand support you need to help you quit andstay quit for good. Tobacco CessationCoordinator Emily Curtis leads you throughfour one-hour classes designed to help youdiscover the keys you need to leave tobaccobehind for good. Classes are offered everymonth. To register, call 541-296-7319.

Journal WritingEVERY WEDNESDAY11 a.m., Meditation Room, Celilo Cancer CenterFreeYou will be guided in journal writingtechniques designed to help you process lifeevents and to open to inspiration.

Guided Relaxation with HarpWEDNESDAYS10:15 to 11 a.m.Meditation Room, Celilo Cancer CenterFreeThis 45-minute session can help you reducestress and relax with the use of guidedimagery and beautiful music.

Arthritis and NutritionTUESDAY, January 125:30 to 6:30 p.m.Medical Center Office Plaza, Conf. Rm B$10 (fee includes support person)Eating healthy is a smart way to manage orprevent disease. Jennifer Zimmerman, RDwill discuss the value of eating healthy tobetter manage the symptoms of arthritisand to help you feel your best.

Healthy Weight SolutionsWEDNESDAYS

begins January 27 or April 76:30 to 8:30 p.m. Call for class schedule.This outpatient program is a unique 8-weekprogressive weight loss and wellness clinicthat will provide a safe and supportiveenvironment for weight loss achievement,stress reduction and disease prevention. Theprogram will focus on a holistic solution to

Research indicates drumming can work alongsideconventional medicine to improve moods, immunefunction, physical movement and decreaseburnout and stress. And, it is incredibly fun!

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NON-PROFITU.S. Postage

P A I DMID-COLUMBIA

MEDICAL CENTERPermit #161

CURRENT RESIDENT

1700 E. 19th St., The Dalles, OR 97058A Designated Planetree Patient-Centered Hospitald l d

Tuesday, Feb. 16Getting Close: Love and Desire in the 21st Century Have you ever felt you missed the lessonin school that talked about how to havea successful intimate life? Most of ushave at some time felt challenged increating the type of intimacy we longfor. Amy Marshall, LCSW, introducespresenter Anna Marti and Kelly Reese,intimacy coaches from Portland, who willtouch on how intimacy shows up in allour relationships: self, partner, mothersand fathers, sons, daughters and friends.We’ll look at emotional as well asphysical intimacy and help you discoverthe important skills required for both.This class is open to all: married, singleor partnered.

Tuesday, Feb. 23Relief for Chronic PainLiving in chronic pain can be a verylonely place. You may be wondering,“Are there any new pain medicines thatmight help?” or “Can my pain even becontrolled?” Eric Holeman, clinicalpharmacist at MCMC and painmanagement specialist, talks abouteffective ways to manage chronic painand fills you in on promising newapproaches to this debilitating condition.

Tuesday, March 2Menopause and MeHot flashes, insomnia, mood swings –if these things sound familiar to you, you are most likely “perimenopausal” or approaching menopause. For somewomen, this mid-life transition is a walk in the park; for others it’s a hugemountain to climb. Brian MacArthur,M.D., OB/GYN at Columbia River Women’s Clinic, demystifies these years of transition and shares tips on how to successfully negotiate this time of change.

Tuesday, March 9Seasonal Allergies & Acupuncture With spring allergy season close at hand you may be gearing up for moresneezing, congestion and watery eyes. Jan van Es, MAcOM, L.Ac, discusses anEastern, Traditional Chinese Medicineapproach to seasonal allergies:acupuncture. Come learn about thisintriguing approach to a very commonproblem.

WINTER 2010Planetree Health Resource Center Health Lecture SeriesInformative Discussions on Your Good Health — All lectures are freeand open to the public. Lectures are held in the Medical Center Office Plazaconference room at Mid-Columbia Medical Center, 1810 E. 19th St., TheDalles. All programs are from 7 to 8:30 pm. Your on-time arrival isappreciated. Phone 296-8444 to pre-register. We look forward to seeing you.


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