st. joseph health! - winter 2014

See page 13

for our

Calendar of

Events

Franciscan Health System • Winter 2014

health!

happy heartFranciscan Virtual

urgent care:

you are what you eat

St. Joseph

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

learn how Franciscan heart

center helped

Frank get back on track

See page 6

Inside3 VIRTUAL URGENT CARE

Chat with a doctor on your smartphone?

Now you can.

4 FRANCISCAN NEWSStay current with what’s happening

at franciscan Health System

6 HEART CAREWorld-class heart care, close to home

8 NUTRITIONeat right for a happy heart.

9 MEAL PLANNINGgive your pantry a heart-healthy

makeover!

10 KNOW YOUR NUMBERSSure, but what does it really mean?

12 WOMEN’S HEALTHHormones and their impact on weight.

›› find us on facebook, Twitter and YouTube!get news and information about

health events and more at:

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fHShealth

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Choose from over 20 topics including

weight management, pregnancy,

parenting, women’s health, men’s

health, heart health and more. You’ll

also have access to our ereminder

calendar to keep track of recommended

preventative health screens and other

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ones. Visit FHShealth.org/enews to

sign up!

Check out health! online @ www.FHShealth.org

Find your nEw health care professional today!

Franciscan is a family of more than 12,000 doctors, nurses and staff who provide exceptional medical care at: Hospitals St. Joseph Medical Center, Tacoma • St. Francis Hospital, Federal Way • St. Clare Hospital, Lakewood • St. Elizabeth Hospital, Enumclaw • St. Anthony Hospital, Gig Harbor • Highline Medical Center, Burien • Harrison Medical Center, Bremerton and Silverdale • Medical Groups franciscan Medical group, clinics throughout the Puget Sound • Harrison HealthPartners, serving the West Sound

CEO, Franciscan Health System Joe Wilczekpresident, St. Joseph Medical Center Syd BersanteManaging editor amanda Hobbs

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

for questions or comments, or if you’d like to be removed from the health! mailing list, please contact us at 253-382-3850, www.Fhshealth.org or write to: editor, franciscan health!, franciscan Health System, Marketing & Communications, po Box 2197, Tacoma, Wa 98401-2197.

UrologyFranciscan Urology Associates (253) 207-42001708 S. Yakima ave.Suite 310Tacoma

Family MedicineFranciscan Medical Clinic (253) 274-75031608 S. J St., 3rd floorTacoma

Emily Benson, ARNP

Richard Johnston, MD

CardiologyFranciscan Heart & Vascular Associates (253) 627-12441802 S. Yakima ave.Suite 302, 304, 307Tacoma

PediatricsFranciscan Medical Clinic (253) 274-75031608 S. J St., 2nd floor (pediatrics) Tacoma

Vascular SurgeryFranciscan Vascular Associates (253) 382-85401802 S. Yakima ave.Suite 204TacomaRachel

Sammis-Falk, PA-C

Marjorie Bergsma, PA-C

Javier Yuvienco, MD, FACP

Alma Glamzi, MD

NeurologyFranciscan Neurology Associates (253) 274-75051608 S. J Streetfifth floorTacomaMai Won, MD

2 Franciscan Health System | winter 2014

Chat with a doctor on your smartphone? Now you can.franciscan Virtual urgent Care available 24/7 via phone or web

A SpIkIng 2 A.m. FEvEr. A rash that just keeps getting worse. Do you head for the emergency room, or wait and worry?

neither, said Cliff robertson, mD, chief operating officer at Franciscan Health System. with Franciscan virtual urgent Care, you can be treated by our specially-trained doctors and nurse practitioners from the comfort of your home. And for only $35.

Yes, we can treat thatDr. robertson estimated that up to 50 percent of what you visit a physician’s office or Emergency Department for can be handled virtually. This includes assessing cuts, burns and strains/sprains; treating urinary tract, sinus or yeast infections; and consulting on fevers, headaches, pink eye, rashes and sore throats. prescriptions can even be called

into your local pharmacy if medically necessary.

Care is provided by phone or secure video chat via your computer, smartphone or tablet. “much of what is provid-ed is peace of mind, and assistance in determining what to do next. For example, ‘Do I need to take my screaming 2-year-old to the Er, or can the issue be handled another way?’” Dr. robertson said.

And if care can’t be handled virtually — for example, a recommendation is made to either visit a nearby Franciscan clinic or go to the Emergency Department — the $35 fee is waived.

talk to a doc 24/7Franciscan virtual urgent Care is revolutionizing the way South Sound residents receive health care, said Dr. robertson. “From piloting this service to our employees, we learned that knowing you have access to a doctor or nurse practitioner 24/7 provides peace of mind. It’s like having a doctor in your family.” It also provides easy access to care for people living in the remote areas of the communities we serve, for whom a quick trip to the doctor isn’t a reality, said Janis Fegley, Do, a family medicine physician at Franciscan medical Clinic — Canyon road and Franciscan medical group primary care division chief. “within days of launch, we video chatted with a man living 40 miles from a Franciscan Clinic. The virtual service significantly broadens our reach.”

She added it’s just one more way Franciscan is helping to create the future of health care. “no one else in the region is doing this. we’re providing another way for people to receive care.”

Have an urgent medical question? Contact franciscan Virtual urgent care at (855) 356-8053 or FranciscanCareNow.org.+

Janis Fegley, DO

Cliff Robertson, MD

mikkelwilliam, E+/getty Images; ghislain & marie David de Lossy, Cultura/getty Images; Dan kosmayer, Shutterstock, Inc. www.FHShealth.org 3

Von Freudenstein is back to enjoying life, pictured here reading Dr. Seuss stories to local children. He previously suffered from debilitating facial pain that kept him isolated at home before having successful Gamma Knife treatment at Franciscan.

THE AFFOrdABLE CArE ACT And FrAnCiSCAn HEALTH SySTEM

January 1, 2014 marked the beginning of

the affordable Care act and everyone is

now required to have health insurance.

If you’re one of the many who are

uninsured in our state, and have yet to

enroll in a health plan, it’s not too late

to find an insurance plan that fits your

needs and budget. You may even qualify

for low-cost or free insurance.

The affordable Care act was created to

ensure everyone can get the health care they

need regardless of their budget, even if they

are sick or have a prior health issue. open

enrollment is now through March 31, 2014.

plans on the exchange that include the

franciscan network of physicians and

services including franciscan Medical

group, St. anthony Hospital, St. Clare

Hospital, St. Elizabeth Hospital, St. Francis

Hospital and St. Joseph Medical Center

are LifeWise, Community Health Plans

of Washington and group Health*.

Visit fHShealth.org/aCa for more

information about franciscan and the

affordable Care act. There you’ll find quick

links to various resources throughout our

community. ready to compare plans and

enroll? Visit the Washington State Health

exchange at wahealthplanfinder.org or call

1-855-WAFINDER (1-855-923-4633).

*While we participate in Group Health’s plan, they generally try to serve enrollees through Group Health clinics, surgery centers and other services. If patients sign up with Group Health, depending upon where they live, their access to Franciscan services may be limited.

LoCAL voLunTEEr rEgAInS voICE AFTEr gAmmA knIFE TrEATmEnT

von Freudenstein is a familiar face around Shining mountain Elementary School in Spanaway where he has been known to help celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday with a rousing read of The Lorax. you would never know that prior to gamma knife treat-ment two years ago, the pain of trigeminal neuralgia kept him isolated at home.

“The pain was like having a nuclear toothache,” he said. “I completely and utterly understand why it’s known as the ‘suicide disease.’ There is just no common term that can possibly begin to describe the pain.”

A close friend saw an ad for treating trigeminal neuralgia with gamma knife at St. Joseph medical Center in Tacoma – the only gamma knife facility located between Seattle and portland – and it changed von’s life.

“we thought von was an excellent candidate for gk radiosurgery,” said michael mcDonough, mD, the radiation oncologist who treated von with gamma knife at St. Joseph. “von had been on numerous medications which helped for a while, but eventually the pain progressed despite the meds and his quality of life was suffering.”

von said, “Dr. mcDonough and his team were amazing. They explained the procedure thoroughly in advance and there were no surprises. I was pain-free immediately.”

Gamma knife also successfully treats certain brain tumors and tremors. ask your doctor if you might be a candidate or visit FHShealth.org/Gammaknife to learn more.


St. Joseph Medical Center continues support

of Hilltop artistsSt. Joseph medical Center recently served as the main, Sustaining Sponsor of the seventh annual Hilltop Artists “Better Futures” luncheon event in Tacoma which celebrated the impact of the Hilltop Artists’ glass arts programs and outreach work.

The luncheon supports the award-winning work of the artists who use alternative, experiential-arts learning to create powerful change and long-term outcomes in the lives of our youth and their families.

Through its programs, partnerships and youth advocacy, Hilltop Artists is known within the community for reducing truancy and recidivism, encouraging academic success and increasing graduation rates.

For more information about Hilltop artists and how you can join St. Joseph in supporting their mission, visit hilltopartists.org.

ST. JOSEPH MEdiCAL CEnTEr WinS CoNSuMer CHoICe aWard for 14TH YearSt. Joseph Medical Center is a co-winner of the 2013 Consumer Choice award

based on a survey of Tacoma-area residents by the National research Corp. The

prestigious annual award goes only to hospitals that independent consumer

research indicates have the best overall quality, image and reputation, and the

best doctors and nurses, in their markets. This is the 14th year that St. Joseph

Medical Center has earned the Consumer Choice award.

“This award is recognition that at St. Joseph and franciscan our patients are our top

priority, “said Syd Bersante, president of St. Joseph Medical Center. “This achievement

belongs to our dedicated and compassionate physicians, nurses and staff who make

St. Joseph Medical Center the South Sound’s first choice for health care.”

For more information visit www.FHShealth.org

FrAnCISCAn pLASTIC SurgEry ASSoCIATES movES To poInT ruSTonIn late February, Franciscan plastic Surgery Associates will move to the beautiful new retail community at point ruston located on the waterfront. Franciscan board-certified plastic surgeons Todd willcox, mD, Chris nichols, mD, and michael Cohen, mD, will relocate to the state-of-the-art new facility.

The new location will feature an expanded medical spa, staffed by licensed and trained clinical staff, and an AAAA certified procedure room. medical Spa services range from nonsurgical facial rejuvenation options such as dermal fillers, to massage therapy and skin care.

Franciscan plastic Surgery Associates specializes in cosmetic and recon-structive surgery including breast augmentation and reconstruction, body contouring and facial reconstruction. The current locations in Lakewood and pearl place will close when the new point ruston location opens.

For more information visit franciscanplasticsurgery.com.

nEW FrAnCiSCAn diALySiS CEnTEr OPEn in SOuTH TACOMAfranciscan dialysis Center – South Tacoma is now open and bringing dialysis care closer to residents in need. The new center,

located at 5825 Tacoma Mall Blvd., is conveniently located near local public transportation routes and has ample parking available.

Now the largest outpatient dialysis center within franciscan, it features a total of 22 stations including two home dialysis training

stations to prepare patients for dialysis care in their own homes. The new facility joins the suite of nationally recognized Franciscan

dialysis Centers and has several amenities to make patients more comfortable as they take on their treatment.

“This new center will bring state-of-art equipment, home treatment options, plentiful parking and a very skilled and caring staff to

dialysis patients in the South Tacoma Community,” said Marla fredericks, regional director of Nephrology for franciscan Health System.

For more information or to schedule an appointment call (253) 671-3140.

www.FHShealth.org 5

Frank Mermoud recently had heart surgery at St. Joseph Medical Center. Today he’s healthy and thankful for the time he is able to spend with

his granddaughter, Katie..


franciscan Heart Center. Keeping you heart healthy. for life. To learn more, visit FranciscanHeart.org.+

wHAT IF you or SomEonE you LovE SuFFErS A HEArT ATTACk, needs heart surgery or requires a complex diagnostic procedure? when the unthinkable happens, you want to receive lifesaving care as quickly as possible in a facility offering the latest technology, excellent patient care — and close to home.

That’s exactly what you’ll find at Franciscan Heart Center, which isn’t just one place. It’s a full range of the latest in heart and vascular care provided by highly skilled experts throughout Franciscan. our goal is to help you stay heart healthy for life.

Just ask 79-year-old Federal way resident Frank mermoud. He had a diseased mitral valve. This valve keeps blood flowing between two chambers in the heart, but when there’s a problem it can keep the blood from moving forward. If left untreated, it can lead to heart failure and death. mermoud recently had successful minimally invasive mitral valve repair surgery at St. Joseph medical Center.

rapid, lifesaving treatments Franciscan Cardiothoracic Surgery Associates’ heart surgeons perform all their procedures at St. Joseph medical Center. “If a patient at another Franciscan hospital needs heart surgery, they have it done here,” said Craig Hampton, mD, FACS, Franciscan cardiotho-racic surgeon. “we offer a full spectrum of cardiac services with an emphasis on minimally invasive heart surgery. we’re really unique in the region and country

by offering small-incision valve and bypass surgery routinely.”

when performing minimally invasive heart surgery, surgeons make a very small 2- to 4- inch long incision in the chest instead of cutting the breastbone open. They use special instruments to work

between the ribs. “we find it’s better for patients, it leads to a quicker recovery, less blood loss, faster return to everyday life, and a shorter hospital stay,” said Dr. Hampton. “we’re on the cutting edge of offering these really modern techniques that aren’t done at a lot of places and have huge benefits for patients.”

what also sets St. Joseph’s Heart Center apart is the fact that the surgeons have become “super specialists,” within the practice, said Dr. Hampton. “we have dedicated experts for small-incision mitral valve surgery and small-incision bypass surgery. This means that when you have one of these procedures, you have the most experienced surgeon with extensive expertise in these unique procedures.”

keeping hearts healthymermoud’s mitral valve repair was performed with these minimally invasive methods. He stayed in the hospital for three days before returning home. “Everything went extremely well,” said mermoud. “Before the operation, Dr. Hampton fully explained to my wife and me what we could expect before, during and after surgery. All of it was very accurate. I did remarkably well after I was discharged.”

After surgery, mermoud was sent home with prescrip-tion pain medication. But he only needed to take two doses and never opened the bottle again. within just a few days at home, mermoud was able to return to his daily walks outside. “I couldn’t have chosen a better person to do this surgery than Dr. Hampton or a better hospital to have it done than St. Joseph.”

Craig Hampton, MD

Helping HeartsWorld-ClaSS hearT Care, close to home

Within just a few days of returning home, Frank Mermoud was able to return to his daily walks. he said, “I couldn’t have chosen a better person to do this surgery than dr. hampton or a better hospital to have it done than St. Joseph.”

www.FHShealth.org 7

eat right for a Happy HeartwHETHEr IT’S FAmILy HEALTH HISTory or not-so-healthy choices in your younger years, it can feel like you don’t have much control over your risk for heart disease. But actually, you can make a difference in your heart health starting with what you put on your plate. “A healthy diet and lifestyle are your best weapons to fight cardiovascular disease and it definitely plays a bigger role than many people realize,” said raza orakzai, mD, FACC, a cardiologist at Franciscan Heart & vascular Associates at St. Joseph.

when it comes to eating for a healthy heart there are two important factors to consider: How much you eat and what you eat. Here’s what you need to know.

keep portions under control obesity is one of the biggest risk factors for heart disease. It can increase your risk of high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes, which strain your heart. portion control can help you cut calories, lose weight, and improve your overall health, said Anastasia Fyntrilakis, mD, a family medicine physician at Franciscan medical Clinic at St. Joseph.

Following the myplate method at meals is a great way to consume fewer calories while eating plenty of heart-healthy nutrients. Here’s how it works: At each meal draw an imaginary line down the center of your plate. Fill one half of your plate with fruits and

vegetables. Divide the remaining side of your plate in half again — one section is for whole grains and the other is for lean protein.

what to eat In addition to keeping your portions in check, eat lots of nutrient-rich foods while avoiding those that contain ingredients that could harm your heart. “Cut back on how frequently you eat outside the home,” Dr. Fyntrilakis said. “when you eat out you don’t have as much control over what goes in the food and how big the portions are. Calories in coffee drinks and soda can really add up, too. Switching to water can make a big difference in your weight and overall health.”

Here are some easy ways to start eating for a healthy heart:■■■ Shop the perimeter of the grocery store — that’s

where most of the heart-healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, lean protein and low-fat dairy are found.■■■ get the whole family involved. It’s easier to make

these changes and stick to them if everyone’s eating the same way.■■■ Eat breakfast every morning. It will keep cravings

for unhealthy foods in check all day long.■■■ Cut back on salt. keep the saltshaker off the table

and season foods with sodium-free alternatives like herbs and spices.

Raza Orakzai, MD Anastasia Fyntrilakis, MD


give your pantry a heart-healthy makeover!a healthy heart starts in your kitchen

so stocking up on good-for-you foods

is key. Here are some of the corner-

stones that create a ticker-friendly

pantry:

WHOLE GrAinS. They’re high in fiber,

which helps reduce blood cholesterol

levels. examples include oatmeal,

brown rice, whole-grain pasta, quinoa

and bulgur.

OLivE OiL. It’s rich in cholesterol-

lowering monounsaturated fats and a

healthier alternative to saturated fats

like butter.

NuTS aNd SeedS. reach for them

when you need a snack — they’re

good sources of protein and heart-

healthy fats

LOW-SOdiuM CAnnEd FOOdS.

When buying beans, tomatoes, broth

and other canned goods, make sure

the label says “low sodium.”

drIed HerBS aNd SpICeS. They add

flavor to food without the need for

blood-pressure-raising salt.+

ready to start eating for a healthy heart? pick up our heart health book for tips and yummy recipes. Visit FranciscanHeart.org.

www.FHShealth.org 9

IF you’vE HEArD IT onCE, you’vE HEArD IT A THouSAnD TImES: know your numbers — especially your blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol.

But perhaps you’re putting off that doctor’s appointment because you think, “I feel good, so my numbers must be fine.” right?

“not so,” said Susan Eardley, rn, a clinical nurse specialist and educator for the Franciscan Heart Center. “They don’t call high blood pressure the ‘silent killer’ for nothing,” she added.

You still need to know“most often, people don’t feel bad until something happens,” warned Eardley. “In addition to this, as we age, we subtly start changing our environment to fit our stamina levels and

may not realize our activity tolerance is dropping. So, knowing our numbers and understanding our individual risk factors gives us the opportunity to modify our habits and reduce the chance of a heart attack or stroke.”

You have controlThe good news is that even if your numbers are higher than they should be, focused lifestyle changes such as diet modification, physical activity and targeted medication when necessary can reduce your risk.

KNoWyour numbers

Susan Eardley, RN

here’s what eardley says you need to know about your numbers — and why.

The number: Blood pressure healthY: 120/80 goal

at risk: 135/85 and up

what it is: a measure of heartbeat force, blood flow rate and artery elasticity

whY it’s so critical to know: “Chronic high blood pressure leads to heart disease, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease,” said eardley. “It is usually without symptoms until damage to the organs has already begun.”

The number: Cholesterol (total) healthY: 200 or leSS

at risk: 201 and up

what it is: a measure of a wax-like substance our body needs. Too much raises the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Total cholesterol is made up of hdls (high density lipids), ldls (low density lipids) and triglycerides. Talk with your doctor about these individual numbers too.

whY it’s so critical to know: “Simply put, cholesterol acts like the gunk in your bathroom sink pipes,” explained eardley. “It slowly builds over time, and then that last glob of hair gel gets caught and flow slows or stops. a similar result in the body may be heart attack or stroke.”

Continued on page 11


Have an urgent medical question? Contact franciscan Virtual urgent care at 855-356-8053 or FranciscanCareNow.org.+don’t know your numbers? Visit FrancsicanDoctors.org today and make an appointment for your next physical!

The number: Body mass index (BMI) healthY: 19–24

at risk: 25 and up

what it is: a height-to-weight ratio used to gauge overweight and obesity

whY it’s so critical to know: “a healthy BMI means less stress on the body,” said eardley. “Will we all be a dress size 4 or a 32-inch waist? No. But getting in a healthy range reduces the risk of many health conditions.”

The number: Blood sugar (fasting) healthY: 70–99

at risk: 100 and up

what it is: The concentration of glucose in the blood, a high number may be a sign of impaired glucose metabolism

whY it’s so critical to know: “high blood glucose does damage at the cellular level,” said eardley. “Microvascular damage can cause blindness and kidney failure, and raises heart attack risk. It also contributes to many other chronic conditions.”

The number: Cholesterol (total) healthY: 200 or leSS

at risk: 201 and up

what it is: a measure of a wax-like substance our body needs. Too much raises the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Total cholesterol is made up of hdls (high density lipids), ldls (low density lipids) and triglycerides. Talk with your doctor about these individual numbers too.

whY it’s so critical to know: “Simply put, cholesterol acts like the gunk in your bathroom sink pipes,” explained eardley. “It slowly builds over time, and then that last glob of hair gel gets caught and flow slows or stops. a similar result in the body may be heart attack or stroke.”

Body mass index, or BmI, can be tricky, explained Eardley. “you can have a BmI that’s too low as well as too high.” Factors such as muscle mass and pregnancy can also skew this result, so it’s best to clarify your results with your doctor.

All in all, each number has its purpose — and it’s critical to understand your health status. “knowing your numbers is helpful in identifying your risk factors, which can guide you in making healthier choices to protect your health long-term,” Eardley concluded.

Continued from page 10

www.FHShealth.org 11

HAvE you noTICED your CLoTHES FITTIng A LITTLE morE Snug LATELy? you may be experiencing hormonal shifts that are leading to weight gain.

Hormonal shifts can occur with menopause that may cause you to lose some lean muscle mass. with less muscle your metabolic rate decreases. many women also experience significant changes in their life that coincide with menopause. your kids may be getting older and more independent so you’re not spending as much time being active with them.

However, menopause doesn’t have to be synonymous with unwanted pudge. There’s plenty you can do to keep pounds at bay and, more importantly, protect your overall health for years to come.

start smallLook for ways to increase how much you move each day. Start small like parking further away from the entrance of the grocery store and using the stairs instead of the elevator. wearing a pedometer can help you aim for about 10,000 steps per day —

the recommended amount of activity in an average day.

Also, consider adding weight or resistance training to your activities two to three days per week. It helps build muscle mass to keep your metabolism humming and slows the breakdown of your bones that occurs with menopause.

snack smarteryou need fewer calories to maintain your weight now than when you were younger. reach for fresh fruits and vegetables for snacks instead of chips, crackers or pretzels. Eliminate sugary drinks like soda or sweet-ened iced tea, which provide a heap of calories with zero nutrition. And try serving meals on a salad plate instead of a dinner plate — you’ll get about 150 fewer calories but will feel just as full.

If you follow these steps but are still gaining weight, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with your doctor. you should rule out other hormone issues, such as hypothyroidsism or underactive thyroid which can lead to weight gain and is most common in women older than 60.

don’t ignore weight gain as you age. Visit FHShealth.org/womens for resources in your community for expert women’s care.

hormones and their impact on weight

+

“one of the biggest risks of gaining weight as you age is that you increase the likelihood of breast cancer even more,” said lynne clark, md, a breast surgeon with Franciscan Surgical associates - Pearl Place. “after menopause the main source of estrogen is an enzyme called aromatase, which exists primarily in fat cells. The more overweight a woman is the more fat cells and the more aromatase that also converts other hormones into estrogen and can feed breast cancer cells.”


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

winter 2014

health!For Your

SUPPORT GROUPS

Diabetes Support GroupsLearn and find encouragement and support from

others coping with diabetes. Call Franciscan’s Diabetes

Services at 253-426-6753 for more information.

» Second Tuesday of the Month; 5:30–6:30 p.m.;

GIG HARBOR, St. Anthony Hospital, Conference

Room A, 11567 Canterwood Blvd. NW

» Third Wednesday of each month, 11:30–

1:30 p.m.; FEDERAL WAY, St. Francis Medical

Pavilion Conference Room, 34509 9th Ave. S

» Fourth Monday of each month, Noon–1 p.m.;

TACOMA, St. Joseph Medical Center, Dining

Rooms 1 & 2, Ground Floor, 1717 S. J St.

Franciscan Hospice Support Groups Call 253-534-7000 for more information.

Cancer Support GroupsLook Good, Feel Better — Dedicated to

female cancer survivors, this 2 ½ hour class helps

with make-up, head scarves and other appearance

tips during cancer treatment. Free! Call

1-800-227-2345 to register.

» First Friday of the month; 1–3:30 p.m.;

GIG HARBOR, Jane Thompson Russell

Cancer Care Center.

Yoga for Cancer Patients, Survivors and Caregivers — Open to anyone touched

by cancer as a patient, survivor or caregiver. No

yoga experience necessary. No registration

necessary. Free! » Second and fourth Wednesday of the month;

5–6 p.m.; GIG HARBOR; Jane Thompson

Russell Cancer Care Center

WEIGHT LOSS

Weight Loss Surgery — Learn the FactsFREE seminar about your surgical options at

the Franciscan Center for Weight Management,

a Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence. Registra-

tion is required. Call 1-888-825-3227 or go to

FranciscanWeightLoss.org.

» FEDERAL WAY, Franciscan Center for Weight

Management, 34509 Ninth Ave. S, Suite 100

Weight Loss Surgery Support GroupsWhether you’re contemplating surgical weight loss

or have already had surgery, we have a support

group to meet your needs.

» LAKEWOOD, Third Monday of the Month,

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

Center , 4908 112th St. S.W.

» FEDERAL WAY, Second Tuesday of the Month,

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

Building, 34509 Ninth Ave. S

EVENTS

March Is Colon Cancer Awareness! Tour a 12’x10’x10’ colon exhibit to learn about

colon cancer screening and prevention. Free! No registration necessary. Exhibits are open at

each campus between 7 a.m.–5 p.m. on these

designated dates:

» Mon., March 24, TACOMA, St. Joseph Medical

Center, 1717 S. J Street (Main lobby)

» Tues., March 25, FEDERAL WAY, St. Francis

Hospital, 34509 Ninth Ave. S. (Specific location

TBD)

» Wed., March 26, LAKEWOOD, St. Clare

Hospital, 11315 Bridgeport Way SW (Specific

location TBD)

» Thurs., March 27, ENUMCLAW, St. Elizabeth

Hospital, 1455 Battersby Avenue

» Fri., March 28, GIG HARBOR, St. Anthony

Hospital, 11567 Canterwood Blvd. N.W.

(Larson Lobby near cafeteria)


HEALTH TALKS

Understanding & Treating Back Pain with Julie Benson, ARNPFight back against back pain! Most of us will suffer

some level of back pain during our lifetime. It may

be an injury or a nagging pain from overuse. Join

Julie Benson, ARNP, from the Franciscan Spine

Center as she discusses how the back works,

common problems and some of the latest

non-surgical and surgical treatments that can get

you to the root of your problem. Attendees will

also receive a free Back Basics booklet. Register

online at FHShealth.org/ortho or 1-888-825-3227.

» Wed., March 12; 6-7:30 p.m.; TACOMA,

LaQuinta, 1425 East 27th Street

Advancements in Joint Replacement If you are experiencing hip or knee pain from arthritis

or another condition, joint replacement may be right

for you. You’re invited to hear our orthopedic experts

discuss non-surgical options and recent innovations

in hip and knee replacement, including surgical

techniques and equipment. Learn about how our

patients are achieving great results. Register online

at FHShealth.org/ortho or call 1-888-825-3227.

» Join Michael Miller, MD; Thurs., March 6;

6–7:30 p.m.; ENUMCLAW, St. Elizabeth

Hospital, Rainier Room, 1455 Battersby Ave

» Join Patrick Vaughn, MD; Tues., March 25;

6–7:30 p.m.; GIG HARBOR, Inn at Gig Harbor,

3211 56th St NW

Dr. Venkatesh Kandallu — Meet the Expert: Your Heart Questions Answered!Do you need a straight answer about a heart-

health concern? Are you looking for a cardiologist

who will help you you minimize your risks and

stay your healthiest? This is your chance to learn

from an expert. Join us for a free health talk, where

Cardiologist Venkatesh Kandallu, MD, Franciscan

Heart & Vascular Associates, will discuss risk factors

for heart disease, as well as provide you what you

need to know about arrhythmia, coronary artery

disease, heart failure, and how you can reduce

your risks and stay heart healthy. Bring your

questions as this may be just what you need to

understand your heart health, once and for all.

Register online at www.FHShealth.org/heart or

call 1-888-825-3227.

» Thurs., Feb. 13; 1-2:30 p.m.; AUBURN, Truitt

Building, Rainier Room, 102 W. Main St

FAMILY EDUCATION

For more information about tours or family

education classes and to register, please call

1-888-825-3227 (available 24/7) or visit

FHShealth.org/familyeducation.

Especially YoursA personalized three-hour private childbirth

education course for the expectant mother and

her companion. Registered students personally

select class content after arranging the date, time

and location which best suits their schedule. A

private tour of the Franciscan Family Birth Center is

an option. $200/couple.

Family Birth Center Tour and ClassesBe prepared for your upcoming delivery with a

tour of the birth center near you with tips for

going home with your baby. Free!

Childbirth Preparation Four Franciscan hospitals offer childbirth

preparation classes. Topics include pregnancy

comfort measures, labor and birth including

variations and interventions, and postpartum.

All classes include a tour of the family birth center.

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

Teen Childbirth Preparation Pregnancy preparation specifically addressing the

unique needs of young people 19 and under.

$60/couple or free with Provider One/DSHS card.

Breastfeeding Preparation Covers basic breastfeeding initiation tips and

accessing postpartum lactation resources.

$50/couple.

Conscious Fathering Dads-to-be discuss priorities, life adjustment,

fears, problem solving, partnership and basic

infant care. $50/person.

Newborn Preparation This one time class includes topics such as

postpartum care of mom and baby, hints for

adjusting to new roles, basic newborn care

and resources. $50/couple.

Safe Sitter Babysitting training for adolescents. Discusses

topics such as how to handle emergencies.

$75/person.

Free Car Seat Safety Check Is your child’s car seat installed correctly? Certified

technicians will show you how to install your car

seat according to national safety guidelines.

Available at St. Francis Hospital in Federal Way and

Highline Medical Center in Burien. Please call

206-987-SAFE or visit FHShealth.org/carseat.


ST. JOSEPH MEdiCAL CEnTEr1717 S. J St

Tacoma • 253-426-4101

ST. FrAnCiS HOSPiTAL34515 Ninth ave S

Federal Way • 253-944-8100

ST. CLArE HOSPiTAL11315 Bridgeport Way S.W. Lakewood • 253-985-1711

ST. ELiZABETH HOSPiTAL1455 Battersby ave

Enumclaw • 360-802-8800

ST. AnTHOny HOSPiTAL11567 Canterwood Blvd N.W. Gig Harbor • 253-530-2000

Franciscan health is now on Facebook, Youtube and twitter! ›› search for “Franciscan health system.”

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

Women, Take Heart! A panel discussion just for youLadies, join a panel of Franciscan cardiologists, plus

Susan Levy, publisher of Franciscan’s heart health

book, as we celebrate American Heart Month. Enjoy

an evening of heart-healthy information, hors

d’oeuvres, wine and dark chocolate. Our experts

will tell you what’s new in women’s cardiology,

some of the latest advances that are happening

right here at Franciscan, and how to create your

own heart-healthy journey. We’ll offer door

prizes—and a free copy of our new 2014 heart

health book for every guest. Register online at

FHShealth.org/heart or call 1-888-825-3227.

» Thurs., Feb. 27; 6–8 p.m.; TACOMA, St. Joseph

Medical Center Lagerquist Conference Rooms

A & B, 1717 S. J Street.

Understanding Heart Valve IssuesIf you’ve been told you have a heart valve issue,

please join us Monday, February 3, 6–7:30 p.m.

Hear from heart valve experts, Cardiologist Daniel

Wuthrich, MD, and Cardiac Surgeon Craig Hampton,

MD, as they discuss a variety of heart valve issues like

aortic and mitral valve prolapse and stenosis. Learn

about managing these conditions, minimally invasive

surgery, as well as how you can be diagnosed in

one day at the Franciscan Heart Valve Clinic.

Register online at FHShealth.org/heart or call

1-888-825-3227.

» Mon., Feb. 3; 6–7:30 p.m.;

FEDERAL WAY, Best Western Plus Evergreen

Inn & Suites, 32124 25th Ave S

Mindfulness-Based Stress ReductionStressed or anxious? Have chronic health issues

such as heart disease, cancer, sleep disorders, or

pain that lead to frustration and even depression?

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)

Program is an ideal way to learn life skills using

proven techniques. The program is developed and

lead by Franciscan neurologist John Wendt, MD.

MBSR includes a one-hour orientation, eight

2.5-hour weekly classes, and a 7-hour Saturday

retreat. Guided instruction covers meditation, body

scan, and gentle hatha yoga techniques. The

course also includes discussions about mindful

communication and stress physiology, readings,

and take-home references and educational

resources. Cost is $300/person. Register online at

FHShealth.org/mindful or call 1-888-825-3227.

» Introductory (Free!): Tues., Jan. 28;

6:30–7:30; FEDERAL WAY; St. Francis

Outpatient Center, 34515 Ninth Ave. S.

» Sessions 1 - 8: Tuesdays, Jan. 28; Feb. 4;

Feb. 11; Feb. 18; Feb. 25; Mar. 4; Mar. 11; Mar. 18;

Mar. 25; 6:30–9 p.m.; FEDERAL WAY; St. Francis

Outpatient Center, 34515 Ninth Ave. S.

» Retreat: March 15; 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; FEDERAL

WAY; St. Francis Medical Office Building,

34509 Ninth Ave. S.

» Monday, Feb. 3; Noon–4:30 pm.; TACOMA,

St. Joseph Medical Center, Lagerquist A&B,

1717 S. J St

Afraid to Laugh, Cough or Sneeze? with Scott Poehlmann, MDJoin us for in-depth education and a conversation about

incontinence, its causes, and the newest and greatest

treatment options including physical therapy,

medications and minimally invasive surgical techniques.

Get all of your questions answered. To register, call

1-888-825-3227 or online at FHShealth.org/classes

» March 5; 6–7:30 p.m.; FEDERAL WAY,

St. Francis Hospital Medical Office Building,

34509 Ninth Ave. S.

» April 10; 6–7:30 p.m.: LAKEWOOD, St. Clare

Hospital, Classrooms A and B,

11315 Bridgeport Way SW

CLASSES

Heart Healthy Nutrition SeriesHeart healthy nutrition series is a 4-week class that

will give you information on reading food labels,

eating out, portion control and heart healthy

eating. Call 1-888-825-3227 to register. FREE!

» First and fourth Wednesdays of each month;

9:30–10:30 a.m.; TACOMA, Heart Center

Education Room at St. Joseph Medical Center,

1717 South J. St.

Fitting Food Into Your Fight Against CancerDesigned for cancer patients in active treatment and

their caregiver or support person. Topics include:

anti-inflammatory foods to aid recovery and healing,

coping with common treatment-related side effects,

and nutrition resources. Instructor: Nancy Steedman

RD, CD, CSO, a certified specialist in oncology

nutrition. Call 253-426-4428 to register. FREE!

» Third Tuesday of every month; 3–4 p.m.;

TACOMA; St. Joseph Medical Center,

Ground Floor Oncology Conference Room

» Fourth Thursday of every month, 10–11 a.m.,

GIG HARBOR; Jane Thompson Russell Cancer

Care Center classroom, St. Anthony Hospital

Pump Up Your KnowledgeThis class is for those on insulin pump therapies

or those considering insulin pumps. Please call

Franciscan Diabetes at 253-426-6753 for

information about registration.

» Classes offered Tuesdays, Jan. 28, March 25, May

27, July 22, Sept. 23, Nov. 25.; 6–7:30 p.m.; TACOMA,

St. Joseph Medical Center, 1717 S. J Street.

Living Well With Kidney DiseaseThis free class is being offered to those facing

dialysis in the next 1-2 years. Register online at

FHShealth.org/classes or call 1-888-825-3227.

» Classes offered Wednesdays, Feb. 5, May 7,

Aug. 6, Nov. 5; 2:30-5:30 p.m.; TACOMA, St.

Joseph Medical Center, Lagerquist C, 1717 S. J St

Transplant Choices for Patients with Chronic Kidney DiseaseIf you or a loved one is considering having a kidney

transplant, or being a kidney donor, you are invited

to attend this free conference. You will learn from

the region’s leading transplant experts about how

the evaluation and transplantation process work, as

well as what one should consider about becoming

an organ donor. To register, call 1-888-825-3227 or

online at FHShealth.org/classes.


FHShealth.org

FrAnCiSCAn HEALTH SySTEM1717 South J StreetTacoma, Wa 98405

NONPROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDFRANCISCAN

HEALTH SYSTEM

About FrAnciScAn HeAltH SyStem

›› our miSSion

To create healthier communities

›› our ViSion

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

›› our VAlueS

Reverence, Integrity, Compassion, Excellence

Franciscan Health System is a family of more than 12,000

doctors, nurses and staff who provide exceptional medical

care in hospitals, clinics, urgent care and outpatient centers

throughout Puget Sound.

Self-diagnosis never ends well. Introducing Franciscan Virtual Urgent Care for $35.*

With Franciscan Virtual Urgent Care, we’ve got

you covered. We’re available to provide

consultation, diagnosis and treatment, including

prescriptions, when appropriate, for a variety of

conditions. Have a visit by phone or video chat

practitioners. Any hour of any day.

* If an in-person visit is needed to reach a diagnosis, then the fee will be refunded.

Due to federal regulations, patients who participate in government-funded insurance programs such as Medicare and Medicaid are not eligible for telemedicine “virtual visit” services at this time.

Get care now atwww.FranciscanCareNow.org(855) 356-8053

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FHS_VUC_HealthAd_Final_alt.pdf 1 12/19/13 12:34 PM

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