Media Archives, 2006


INDEPENDENT QUALITY STUDY RATES REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER AMONG NATION'S BEST FOR CLINICAL OUTCOMES (12/06)
Cardiac, Stroke, Pulmonary Service Lines Highlighted in
Ninth Annual HealthGrades Quality Study

Regional Medical Center announced today it is Ranked Among the Top 5 percent in the Nation for Overall Cardiac Care and Cardiac Surgery and Among the Top ten percent in the Nation for Treatment of Stroke and Overall Pulmonary Care, according to a comprehensive study released by HealthGrades, the nation's leading healthcare ratings company.

Other accolades include the following:
Recipient of the 2007 HealthGrades Cardiac Care Excellence Award™ - Two Years in a Row (2006, 2007)
Recipient of the 2007 HealthGrades Cardiac Surgery Excellence Award™
Recipient of the 2007 HealthGrades Stroke Care Excellence Award™
Recipient of the 2007 HealthGrades Pulmonary Care Excellence Award™
Five-Star Rated for Gastrointestinal Procedures & Surgeries
Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Respiratory Failure - Two Years in a Row (2006, 2007)

"We are very proud of this distinction," said Dan Buckner, CEO of Regional Medical Center. "This is quite an honor for us and is a reflection of the quality and dedication of our employees, medical staff, board, and volunteers."

As part of its ninth annual Hospital Quality in America Study, HealthGrades independently analyzed more than 5,000 hospitals in all 50 states and the District of Columbia for its 2007 ratings, objectively assessing their clinical outcomes and quality. The 40 million hospitalization records utilized in the assessment are publicly available and licensed from the federal government's Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The HealthGrades ratings take into account varying degrees of patient severity from hospital to hospital and measure whether patient outcomes for each of more than two dozen procedures and diagnoses are better than expected (5-Star), as expected (3-Star) or worse than expected (1-Star).

"HealthGrades objectively assesses and rates hospital performance in order to help consumers make better and more informed healthcare choices," explained Samantha Collier, M.D., HealthGrades vice president of medical affairs. "With consumers having a greater stake in their healthcare purchasing decisions, it's important for them to know that there is a tremendous difference in clinical quality outcomes between hospitals."

"In Tuscaloosa, Regional stands out notably in terms of delivering quality care for its patients," Collier added. "Patients, families and employers here truly have access to healthcare that is among the best in the nation."

The 2007 HealthGrades ratings for all hospitals nationwide are available, free of charge, on the organization's award-winning consumer Web site, located at www.healthgrades.com. More than three million individuals and employees of 125 major employers and health plans visit HealthGrades each month to access quality information about hospitals, nursing homes and physicians. HealthGrades also provides consumers and payers with detailed assessments of hospitals' patient-safety outcomes, based on indicators developed by the U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.

About Regional Medical Center
Founded in 1947, Regional Medical Center is a 208-bed facility located in Tuscaloosa, on Alabama's Southwestern Gulf coast. Fully accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, Regional is also a five-time recipient of Solucient's 100 Top Hospitals: Cardiovascular Benchmarks for Success award. The hospital offers the area's most extensive range of adult cardiac services at The Heart Institute, County's only comprehensive cardiac care program.

About HealthGrades
HealthGrades (Nasdaq:HGRD) is the leading healthcare ratings company, providing ratings and profiles of hospitals, nursing homes and physicians to consumers, corporations, health plans and hospitals. Millions of consumers and hundreds of the nation's largest employers, health plans and hospitals rely on HealthGrades' independent ratings to make healthcare decisions based on the quality of care. More information on the company can be found at http://www.healthgrades.com.


REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER'S STROKE CARE PROGRAM AWARDED JOINT COMMISSION CERTIFICATION (12/06)
Regional Medical Center has earned the Gold Seal of Approval™ for stroke care. The Joint Commission has awarded Regional Primary Stroke Center Certification. The hospital earned this distinction after the Joint Commission conducted an on-site review in September.

"Regional Medical Center demonstrated that its stroke care program follows national standards and guidelines that can significantly improve outcomes for stroke patients," says Charles A. Mowll, executive vice president, Business Development, Government, and External Relations, Joint Commission.

Each year about 700,000 people experience a new or recurrent stroke, which is the nation's third leading cause of death. On average, someone suffers a stroke ever 45 second and someone dies of a stroke every 3.1 minutes. Stroke is a leading cause of serious, long-term disability in the United States, with about 4.7 million stroke survivors alive today.

"We're proud to achieve the distinction," says Brad Nurkin, CEO at Regional. "Joint Commission Primary Stroke Center Certification recognizes Regional's commitment to providing outstanding care to our patients and our community."

The Joint Commission's Primary Stroke Center Certification is based on the recommendations for primary stroke centers published by the Brain Attack Coalition and the American Stroke Association's statements/guidelines for stroke care. The Joint Commission launched the program - the nation's first - in 2003. A list of Joint Commission-certified programs is available at www.jcaho.org.

Founded in 1951, the Joint Commission seeks to continuously improve the safety and quality of care provided to the public through the provision of health care accreditation and related services that support performance improvement in health care organizations. The Joint Commission evaluates and accredits nearly 15,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States, including more than 8,000 hospitals and home care organizations, and more than 6,800 other health care organizations that provide long term care, assisted living, behavioral health care, laboratory and ambulatory care services. The Joint Commission also accredits health plans, integrated delivery networks, and other managed care entities. In addition, the Joint Commission provides certification of disease-specific care programs and primary stroke centers. An independent, not-for-profit organization, the Joint Commission is the nation's oldest and largest standards-setting and accrediting body in health care.

Regional Medical Center is a leading provider of healthcare in Southwest Alabama, offering healthcare far beyond the ordinary. For more information, call 205-752-5050.

DECEMBER 12 MINI MEDICAL SCHOOL LECTURE SERIES (12/06)
Start stocking your little black bag! Regional Medical Center presents the return of its popular annual physician lecture series, Mini Medical School.

Educate yourself on the healthcare issues that are important to you. Mini Medical School physician lecture series features some of Southwest Alabama's leading physicians communicating new information about specific healthcare topics and addressing your concerns. There is no better way to become familiar with, understand, and learn more about today's healthcare issues relevant to you, your family members, and your community.

Please join us for the lectures held on Tuesday, December 12, beginning at 1 p.m. and 2:45 p.m. at RMC's Wellness Center auditorium located at 733 E. Olympia Avenue in Tuscaloosa (adjacent to the hospital). Michael Zwetschkenbaum, will present a lecture titled Health Insurance: What YOU Need to Know at 1 p.m. Then, at 2:45 p.m., Jan Smith, RN, CDE, will present the lecture Diabetes.

Regional Medical Center is a leading provider of healthcare in Southwest Alabama, providing healthcare far beyond the ordinary. Sign up for Mini Medical School today to learn important, life-changing information to store in your own "little black bag." To learn more about either of these topics, to sign up for the lecture series, or for a complete list of physician speakers, dates, and times, contact Nurse Connect at 205-752-5050.

WOULDN'T YOU LIKE TO BE A GAITER TOO? MONTHLY MEMBER CHECK-UP AND SIGN IN ON DECEMBER 20 (12/06)
From 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. on Wednesday, December 20, the popular Crosstown Gaiters mall walking program sponsored by Regional Medical Center will hold its monthly member check-up and sign in at Port Town Center Mall.

The "course" at Town Center Mall is a ¾-mile trek with stops at 12 separate exercise and stretching stations. Upon joining Crosstown Gaiters, each participant receives a Crosstown Gaiters tee-shirt, pedometer, and guide identifying the benefits of walking, proposing tips for starting a walking program, and offering instruction on how to customize an individual walking program. A wellness coordinator will be available to instruct on pre-walk stretching and to answer any exercise questions. Step into fitness with Crosstown Gaiters and have a little fun while you're at it!

BRIDGE WALK: FOLLOW US TO A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE (12/06)
In January, Regional kicks off its Healthy Workforce Campaign designed to promote a healthy lifestyle among employees, and the hospital is reaching out to the community with this initiative as well. The community is invited to attend the kick-off event, a Bridge Walk, held on January 13, 2007.

The Bridge Walk begins at the Gilchrist Park Pavilion in Tuscaloosa with participants gathering for a walk across the Gilchrist Bridge. "Our theme, 'Follow Me to a Healthy Lifestyle,' really says it all," said Kristen Kopinsky, Assistant Administrator at Regional and the one heading up the campaign. "Our hope is that in joining together and following one another during this fun and ceremonial walk, the participants will commit to a healthy lifestyle and continue the journey on their own." The Bridge Walk will also involve some fun community activities including County Fire and EMS truck tours and a visit from Scrubby Bear, as well as door prizes including Redfish Gear donated by the new County Redfish Baseball team.

Participant check-in is from 9 - 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 13, at the Gilchrist Park Pavilion. The walk will begin at 9:30 a.m., rain or shine. Cost is $5 per person or $10 per family. The first 100 registered participants will receive a free large tee shirt. All proceeds from the walk will benefit Regional's ECHO fund (designed to help employees with financial hardships) and the Healthy Workforce Campaign.

For more information or to register for the Bridge Walk, call Nurse Connect at 205-752-5050.

NOVEMBER 14 MINI MEDICAL SCHOOL LECTURE SERIES (11/06)
Start stocking your little black bag! Regional Medical Center presents the return of its popular annual physician lecture series, Mini Medical School.

Educate yourself on the healthcare issues that are important to you. Mini Medical School physician lecture series features some of Southwest Alabama's leading physicians communicating new information about specific healthcare topics and addressing your concerns. There is no better way to become familiar with, understand, and learn more about today's healthcare issues relevant to you, your family members, and your community.

Please join us for the lectures held on Tuesday, November 14, beginning at 1 p.m. and 2:45 p.m. at RMC's Wellness Center auditorium located at 733 E. Olympia Avenue in Tuscaloosa (adjacent to the hospital). Dr. Christopher Webb, M.D., will present a lecture titled Health Screening Tests and Hypertension at 1 p.m. Then, at 2:45 p.m., Dr. Xiaomei Gao-Hickman, M.D., will present the lecture Stroke Update.

Regional Medical Center is a leading provider of healthcare in Southwest Alabama, providing healthcare far beyond the ordinary. Sign up for Mini Medical School today to learn important, life-changing information to store in your own "little black bag." To learn more about either of these topics, to sign up for the lecture series, or for a complete list of physician speakers, dates, and times, contact Nurse Connect at 205-752-5050.

HOME-DELIVERED HEALTHCARE (11/06)
More than 11 million Americans receive home-delivered healthcare from home healthcare providers. In their honor, Home Health Services of (HHSC) joins the National Association for Home Care & Hospice in celebrating November as National Home Care Month.

"Caring for the sick, elderly and dying in their homes truly is a privilege for us," said Debra David, RN, Director of HHSC. "Home care professionals and modern medicine make it possible for people to stay in their homes, regardless of their condition."

Through technological advances, home-delivered healthcare has grown far beyond basic professional nursing and home care aide services. Today's modern home care agency offers a wealth of nursing, physical, occupational, and speech therapies, counseling, laboratory, pharmacy, x-ray, medical equipment and home medical supplies, and personal care. "Home care's goal is to help people understand their disease, manage their symptoms, and comply with their diet, exercise, and medication regimes," stated David.

Home care services are paid for by public and private sources or directly by patients and their families. Third-party payers include commercial insurance, managed care organizations, CHAMPUS, and workers' compensation. Medicare and Medicaid are significant payers, often driving the payment agenda for commercial insurance. Despite massive cutbacks in government funding, home care continues to be the preferred means of receiving quality healthcare services for millions of Americans.

Home Health Services of was founded in 1976 and is the longest continuously operating provider for home care in the County and surrounding area. Its care giving team offers services ranging from basic assistance with daily living to advanced medical treatment.

If you or someone you know could benefit from home healthcare, call Home Health Services of at 205-752-5050 for a free home evaluation.

NOVEMBER 28 MINI MEDICAL SCHOOL LECTURE SERIES (11/06)
Start stocking your little black bag! Regional Medical Center presents the return of its popular annual physician lecture series, Mini Medical School.

Educate yourself on the healthcare issues that are important to you. Mini Medical School physician lecture series features some of Southwest Alabama's leading physicians communicating new information about specific healthcare topics and addressing your concerns. There is no better way to become familiar with, understand, and learn more about today's healthcare issues relevant to you, your family members, and your community.

Please join us for the lectures held on Tuesday, November 28, beginning at 1 p.m. and 2:45 p.m. at RMC's Wellness Center auditorium located at 733 E. Olympia Avenue in Tuscaloosa (adjacent to the hospital). Dr. Bernardo Arias, M.D., will present a lecture titled Memory Loss at 1 p.m. Then, at 2:45 p.m., Dr. Nelson Hernandez, M.D., will present the lecture Holiday Blues & Depression.

Regional Medical Center is a leading provider of healthcare in Southwest Alabama, providing healthcare far beyond the ordinary. Sign up for Mini Medical School today to learn important, life-changing information to store in your own "little black bag." To learn more about either of these topics, to sign up for the lecture series, or for a complete list of physician speakers, dates, and times, contact Nurse Connect at 205-752-5050.

REGIONAL WELCOMES DEE MCCARTHY AS CHIEF NURSING OFFICER (11/06)
Regional Medical Center welcomes Dee McCarthy, BSN, MHSA, as Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) of the hospital. As the CNO, McCarthy will oversee the Nursing Division that provides for day-to-day patient care and service. She will work closely with the governing body and medical staff in developing the hospital's mission, strategic plans, operational plans, and policies. She is also responsible for ensuring continued clinical development and competency of the clinical staff providing patient care.

For the past four years, prior to joining the staff at Regional, McCarthy served as the CNO and Vice President of Nursing at a 400 bed acute care facility on the Alabama's East Coast. In addition to her clinical background and expertise, she was also actively involved in the Employee Satisfaction Initiatives for the Healthcare Advisory Board.

McCarthy is certified in Health Care Quality and Case Management Administration and is licensed in Health Care Risk Management. She is a member of the American Association of Nurse Executives, the Alabama Association of Nurse Executives, the American College of HealthCare Executives, and an honored member in 2005's Who's Who in Healthcare. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from University of South Carolina and a Master of Science in Health Services Administration from Nova Southeaster University.

REGIONAL EMPLOYEES RAISE OVER $14,000 FOR UNITED WAY (11/06)
Coming together for a common cause, the employees at Regional Medical Center raised $14,190 in a month long fundraising campaign benefiting the United Way.

In mid-October, the event kicked-off with an introductory event for hospital staff. Fifteen United Way partner agencies were present at the afternoon kick-off, where employees had the opportunity to talk with representatives from the various organizations.

Ohme Felix, Administrative Resident at Regional, spearheaded the campaign that included several unique fundraisers throughout the month. "The United Way is such a worthy organization to support," said Felix. "In putting together this fundraiser, we wanted to ensure that there were a variety of fundraising events so that employees were able to choose how they wanted to donate depending on their interests." Hospital-wide fundraising efforts included a bake sale, a "jeans day at work" sticker sale, a "paid day off" raffle, direct payroll deduction, and collection jars throughout the hospital.

One of the most popular fundraising events was the departmental theme basket raffle. "Twenty-six different departments put together theme baskets to be raffled off," stated Felix. "The baskets were amazing - everything from an 'electronics extravaganza' basket, to a 'creative cooking' basket, to a 'glorious getaway' basket. Our staff was so creative!" By itself, the theme basket raffle raised over $4,500. In addition, hospital physicians were very generous in their donations.

"Our employees rallied around one another and did an tremendous job raising money for the United Way," said Felix. "Their effort is a reflection of their dedication and caring nature. This campaign generated a lot of excitement within the hospital, and we are looking forward to doing similar campaigns in the future."

OCTOBER 10 MINI MEDICAL SCHOOL LECTURE SERIES (10/06)
Start stocking your little black bag! Regional Medical Center presents the return of its popular annual physician lecture series, Mini Medical School.

Educate yourself on the healthcare issues that are important to you. Mini Medical School physician lecture series features some of Southwest Alabama's leading physicians communicating new information about specific healthcare topics and addressing your concerns. There is no better way to become familiar with, understand, and learn more about today's healthcare issues relevant to you, your family members, and your community.

Please join us for the lectures held on Tuesday, October 10, beginning at 1 p.m. and 2:45 p.m. at RMC's Wellness Center auditorium located at 733 E. Olympia Avenue in Tuscaloosa (adjacent to the hospital). Mary Spremulli, MA, CCC-SLP, will present a lecture titled Why Do I Sound This Way? Vocal Health & Care of the Voice at 1 p.m. Then, at 2:45 p.m., Dr. Larry Bachle, D.O., will present the lecture Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine.

Regional Medical Center is a leading provider of healthcare in Southwest Alabama, providing healthcare far beyond the ordinary. Sign up for Mini Medical School today to learn important, life-changing information to store in your own "little black bag." To learn more about either of these topics, to sign up for the lecture series, or for a complete list of physician speakers, dates, and times, contact Nurse Connect at 205-752-5050.

FREE LECTURE & EYE SCREENING AT THE GARDENS OF NORTH PORT (10/06)
The Gardens of North Port and Regional Medical Center are excited to host a community outreach lecture and screening featuring Dr. Joseph Heghleh, M.D., of Alabama Eye & Laser Institute.

The lecture and screening will take place on Monday, October 16 at The Gardens of North Port, located at 4900 S. Sumter Boulevard. From 10 - 11:30 a.m., Dr. Hegleh will present a lecture titled, "Aging of the Eye: Graceful Solution!" Then, from 12:30 - 1:30 p.m., he will perform free eye screenings. Please call The Gardens of North Port at 205-752-5050 to register for the lecture and screening.

There are more exciting programs to come. Please refer to the community calendar for future lectures & screenings.

WOULDN'T YOU LIKE TO BE A GAITER TOO? MONTHLY MEMBER CHECK-UP AND SIGN IN ON OCTOBER 18 (10/06)
From 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. on Wednesday, October 18, the popular Crosstown Gaiters mall walking program sponsored by Regional Medical Center will hold its monthly member check-up and sign in at Port Town Center Mall.

The "course" at Town Center Mall is a ¾-mile trek with stops at 12 separate exercise and stretching stations. Upon joining Crosstown Gaiters, each participant receives a Crosstown Gaiters tee-shirt, pedometer, and guide identifying the benefits of walking, proposing tips for starting a walking program, and offering instruction on how to customize an individual walking program. A wellness coordinator will be available to instruct on pre-walk stretching and to answer any exercise questions. Step into fitness with Crosstown Gaiters and have a little fun while you're at it!

Regional Medical Center is a leading provider of healthcare in Southwest Alabama, offering healthcare far beyond the ordinary. For more information on RMC's Crosstown Gaiters, call Nurse Connect at 205-752-5050.

OCTOBER 24 MINI MEDICAL SCHOOL LECTURE SERIES (10/06)
Start stocking your little black bag! Regional Medical Center presents the return of its popular annual physician lecture series, Mini Medical School.

Educate yourself on the healthcare issues that are important to you. Mini Medical School physician lecture series features some of Southwest Alabama's leading physicians communicating new information about specific healthcare topics and addressing your concerns. There is no better way to become familiar with, understand, and learn more about today's healthcare issues relevant to you, your family members, and your community.

Please join us for the lectures held on Tuesday, October 10, beginning at 1 p.m. and 2:45 p.m. at RMC's Wellness Center auditorium located at 733 E. Olympia Avenue in Tuscaloosa (adjacent to the hospital). Debbie David, RN, and Jeanne Mahon, RN, will present a lecture giving an overview of home heath services at 1 p.m. Then, at 2:45 p.m., Dr. Raymond Waters, M.D., will present the lecture Carotid Artery Disease and Arteriosclerosis.

Regional Medical Center is a leading provider of healthcare in Southwest Alabama, providing healthcare far beyond the ordinary. Sign up for Mini Medical School today to learn important, life-changing information to store in your own "little black bag." To learn more about either of these topics, to sign up for the lecture series, or for a complete list of physician speakers, dates, and times, contact Nurse Connect at 205-752-5050.

DR. XIAOMEI GAO-HICKMAN JOINS THE MEDICAL STAFF OF REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER (10/06)
Dr. Xiaomei Gao-Hickman, M.D. has joined the Medical Staff of Regional Medical Center. Dr. Gao-Hickman is an accomplished general neurologist with special interests in epilepsy, stroke, EEG, EMG, neuromuscular diseases, migraine headache, dementia, and movement disorders. She is fluent in both English and Mandarin Chinese.

"My mission as a neurologist reflects commitment to acknowledging the needs of my patients with sensitivity. My greatest satisfaction is found in the suffering I alleviate and the afflictions I eliminate," said Gao-Hickman. "I am dedicated to continuing a tradition of performance excellence, treating one patient at a time. I desire to help each patient reach one's potential."

Before completing medical school, Dr. Gao-Hickman obtained a Bachelor of Medicine and a Master of Science degree at Tianjin Medical University. Trained as a Ph.D. candidate in Microbiology at West Virginia Medical Center, she completed residency training at University of Mississippi Medical Center and The Ohio State University Medical Center.

Dr. Gao-Hickman served as a Clinical Research Coordinator at San Francisco Clinical Research Center. There, her work focused on migraine headaches, Alzheimer's disease, lower back pain, and anxiety disorder. She held an externship in the Emergency Department at Kaiser Permanente Hospital. Her work has been published on numerous occasions in the Tianjin Medical Journal and Neurology.

A resident of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Dr. Gao-Hickman is licensed by the State Medical Board of Alabama and certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Her affiliations include American Association of Neurology and American Medical Association.

Dr. Gao-Hickman's office is located at 150 W. McKenzie, Suite 116 in Tuscaloosa. For more information, call her office at 205-752-5050.

REGIONAL OPENS ONLY COMPREHENSIVE DIALYSIS UNIT IN COUNTY (9/06)
This month, Regional will open the only comprehensive dialysis unit in County. The hospital, licensed for acute dialysis services, has always offered contracted dialysis services to patients, but is now bringing the services in-house in effort to better accommodate patient needs.

"This is a very precise field with very specific expertise and training. There are not many hospitals that offer a comprehensive dialysis program, and our unit is exceptional," said Peggy Greene, RN, Chief Nursing Officer at RMC.

In the new unit, dialysis is offered to patients being treated in the hospital as well as to patients who are seen on an emergency basis. The dialysis unit is a 3-bed room that also offers "traveling dialysis" for patients in ICU who require one-on-one dialysis from the comfort of their hospital room.

According to Pam Monge, RN, Divisional Director of the Cardiac Care Unit, there are three types of dialysis offered in the new program: hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). "Our goal is to improve patient satisfaction by having multiple nurses available to administer dialysis services 24-hours a day, seven days a week," said Monge. "We are thrilled to have a very competent and extensively trained staff."

Heading up the program with Monge is Clinical Manager Edward Harvey and Medical Director Dr. Kianoosh Kaveh, D.O. "Our goal is to better serve our community," said Kaveh. "This program gives Regional the ability to accomplish - in a community hospital - something that is not available in many larger, university hospitals."

SEPTEMBER 26th MINI MEDICAL SCHOOL LECTURE SERIES (9/06)
Start stocking your little black bag! Regional Medical Center presents the return of its popular annual physician lecture series, Mini Medical School.

Educate yourself on the healthcare issues that are important to you. Mini Medical School physician lecture series features some of Southwest Alabama's leading physicians communicating new information about specific healthcare topics and addressing your concerns. There is no better way to become familiar with, understand, and learn more about today's healthcare issues relevant to you, your family members, and your community.

Please join us for the lectures held on Tuesday, September 26, beginning at 1 p.m. and 2:45 p.m. at RMC's Wellness Center auditorium located at 733 E. Olympia Avenue in Tuscaloosa (adjacent to the hospital). Jim Norton, Wellness Center coordinator, will present a lecture titled Exercise and Wellness Tools: The Right Path to a Healthier Lifestyle at 1 p.m. Then, at 2:45 p.m., Jaimee Thomas, Registered & Certified Dietician, will present the lecture Portion Distortion: Proper Portion Sizes.

Sign up for Mini Medical School today to learn important, life-changing information to store in your own "little black bag." To learn more about either of these topics, to sign up for the lecture series, or for a complete list of physician speakers, dates, and times, contact Nurse Connect at 205-752-5050.

WOULDN'T YOU LIKE TO BE A GAITER TOO? MONTHLY MEMBER CHECK-UP AND SIGN IN ON SEPTEMBER 20 (9/06)
From 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. on Wednesday, September 20, the popular Crosstown Gaiters mall walking program sponsored by Regional Medical Center will hold its monthly member check-up and sign in at Port Town Center Mall.

The "course" at Town Center Mall is a ¾-mile trek with stops at 12 separate exercise and stretching stations. Upon joining Crosstown Gaiters, each participant receives a Crosstown Gaiters tee-shirt, pedometer, and guide identifying the benefits of walking, proposing tips for starting a walking program, and offering instruction on how to customize an individual walking program. Step into fitness with Crosstown Gaiters and have a little fun while you're at it!

MAKING THE DIFFERENCE AND SAVING LIVES AWARD TO BE PRESENTEDTO MEMBERS OF THE NORTH PORT FIRE RESCUE DISTRICT (9/06)
When tragedy happens and a life is in danger, mere seconds can mean the difference between life and death. In an emergency, the quick response by emergency medical personnel and the life saving efforts of paramedics and the expert care received by hospital physicians, nurses, and emergency room and cath lab department staff members, is crucial to a happy ending.

Regional is consistently ranked among the 100 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals in the United States and is the only hospital in County where angioplasty can be done. When someone has a heart attack, response time in implementing a procedure utilizing stents or balloons to open the arteries is essential to saving a life. "Angioplasty is the ideal choice," said Rose Marie McCafferty, RN, BSN, CEN, and Director of Cardiovascular Services at RMC. "But performing any life-saving treatment that restores blood flow to the heart and issuing that treatment in a timely manner are the keys to reducing the risk of heart attack and death."

Studies by the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association recommend that patients receive such treatments within 90 minutes of hospital arrival. "With timely treatment, studies show that patients have a 38% lower risk of death. Quick response is the key," states McCafferty. "At Regional, our current in-house data has us well within the recommended 90-minute guideline."

In recognition of the life-saving efforts performed by North Port Fire Rescue District emergency personnel, Mr. Dan Buckner, the CEO for Regional Medical Center, will be presenting their "Making the Difference" program award to District personnel at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 28, 2006. The presentation ceremony will take place at Fire Station 81, 4980 City Center Blvd.

Making the Difference, a Regional program, recognizes the life-saving efforts performed by individual Fire & Rescue units throughout the area. Each time the swift effort of a Fire & EMS unit is vital in saving a life, RMC awards their efforts. Crews receiving recognition are:

     Rescue 83/Engine 83: FF/PM Yves Dallaire, FF/EMT Scott Lane, FF/PM Andre Hoefer, FF/EMT Keith Tommas, and Lt. Barry King.

     Rescue 84/Engine 83: FF/PM Yves Dallaire, FF/EMT Chris Adkins, FF/EMT Chris Kiesel and Lt. Darren Miller.

     Rescue 82/Engine 82: FF/PM Jason Walchok, FF/PM Ed Evancho, FF/EMT Casey Kelch, FF/EMT Jentzen Barton and Lt. Scott Titus.

     Rescue 84/Truck 81: FF/PM Shawn Houser, FF/EMT Christopher Ferguson, FF/EMT Chris Keisel, and FF/EMT Ron Jekonski.

"Many lives have been saved because a Fire & EMS units acted quickly and with skilled care, delivering the patient to Regional Medical Center where that patient receives the expert care needed to survive," said Rose Marie McCafferty, RN, BSN, CEN and Director of Cardiovascular Services at RMC.

"Our partnership with Regional and the fast action of North Port Fire Rescue District members have made a significant difference in the successful outcome of critical patients," states Fire Chief Bill Taaffe. "All of our members are dedicated to serving the community and providing the best emergent care possible. I am proud of their dedication and commitment to the citizens of North Port."

IT'S TEA TIME AT REGIONAL (8/06)
Thanks to Regional's concierge services, patients, physicians, and staff enjoy evening tea. After weekday dinner, concierge services stocks a teacart with several varieties of flavored gourmet teas, coffee, and an array of delicious cookies and candies. The concierge visits patient rooms, waiting rooms, and nurses' stations throughout the hospital. Providing a unique service, the concierge lets the individual select a choice of tea, then prepares the tea and serves it along with a selection of cookies and candies. "Everyone loves it!" says Cyndy Johnstone, director of special services for Just Ask... Concierge Services. "Not only do our patients anticipate and enjoy evening tea, but it is a great perk for our night staff as well."

Currently, evening tea is served to patients on a general diet, hospital guests, physicians, and staff. However, teatime has become so popular that concierge services is expanding the service to include cardiac patients who have prior physician approval. "The cardiologists on staff have noticed how much patients and guests enjoy teatime," says Johnstone, "and they want their cardiac patients to be able to enjoy evening tea as well." As a result, Johnstone worked closely with the hospital's dieticians to determine that the teas, cookies, and candies were approved by physicians and stayed within requirements of the cardiac diet.

Regional Medical Center is a leading provider of healthcare in Southwest Alabama, offering healthcare far beyond the ordinary. For more information about their concierge services, call Cyndy Johnstone, Director of Special Services for Just Ask... 205-752-5050.

REGIONAL EARNS SPECIAL DISTINCTION FROM SOLUCIENT AS A MULTIPLE 100 TOP HOSPITALS AWARD WINNER (8/06)
Regional Medical Center is a six time winner of Solucient's 100 Top Hospitals: National Benchmarks for Success awards - earning an honor for its excellence in stroke care (2000) and an admirable five distinctions as one of the nation's top cardiovascular hospitals (1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004).

The study, conducted by Evanston, Ill.-based Solucient, LLC, objectively measures performance on key criteria at the nation's top performing acute-care hospitals. Having won multiple times, Regional is in a rare position among hospitals nationally. In recognition of its five cardiovascular awards, Solucient will present the hospital with a special crystal award. "This is a testament to the consistency of the performance of the board, executives, and hospital cardiovascular teams - the physicians, nurses, OR staff, and cardiovascular managers - to meet high standards of care and good patient outcomes," said Steve Zerbe, Solucient Client Executive.

CEO Dan Buckner noted that Regional's consistent 100 Top Hospitals awards are a tremendous achievement and a well-deserved tribute to the hospital's staff. "This is quite an honor for us," Buckner stated. "It is a reflection of the quality and dedication of our employees, medical staff, board, and volunteers."

REGIONAL HOSTS OSTOMY AWARENESS DAY OCTOBER 6 (8/06)
An ostomy refers to a surgically created opening in the body that allows for the discharge of bodily wastes. The need for an ostomy is most often caused by cancer, but can also be caused by ulcerated colitis, bladder problems, and other malfunctions of organs that normally discharge the waste. Anyone - from infants to seniors - can have an ostomy. Occasionally, the ostomy may be reversed.

In honor of World Ostomy Day, Regional Medical Center (RMC) is hosting an ostomy awareness day on Friday, October 6. According to Penelope Maki, RN, Enterostomal Therapist, and Certified Wound Specialist, only a small percentage of County's population has an ostomy, but the misconceptions about the limitations of life after surgery place undo stress on ostomates. "The purpose of our ostomy awareness day is to improve ostomy awareness and care," said Maki. "But, we also want to show ostomates that there is life after surgery. Life can go on as normal, and there are ways to transition smoothly into a new lifestyle with few adjustments."

To attend RMC's ostomy awareness day activities, individuals with an ostomy or their spouses, caregivers, or parents, are to call Nurse Connect at 205-752-5050 by Wednesday, October 4, to register their ostomy information. Registered guests may then attend the awareness day held on October 6 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. in the discharge lounge located in RMC's main lobby. Each guest will receive a handy, wallet-sized ostomy packet containing the information provided at registration. The packet serves as an ostomy reference card not only for patients, but also for their healthcare providers.

Roger Wilson, President of the County Ostomy Support Group, will be on hand to answer any questions guests have and to offer support. "We have a very active Support Group in County," Wilson said. "Everyone attending the meetings say they wouldn't have wanted to go through life without the knowledge gained from these meetings." In addition, information on ostomies, the local ostomy support group, and ostomy supplies will be available.

Regional Medical Center is a leading provider of healthcare in Southwest Alabama, offering healthcare far beyond the ordinary. For more information on the County Ostomy Support Group, call Wilson at 205-752-5050. To register for ostomy awareness day at Regional, call Nurse Connect at 205-752-5050 by Wednesday, October 4th.

WOULDN'T YOU LIKE TO BE A GAITER TOO? MONTHLY MEMBER CHECK-UP AND SIGN IN ON JULY 19 (7/06)
From 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. on Wednesday, July 19, the popular Crosstown Gaiters mall walking program sponsored by Regional Medical Center will hold its monthly member check-up and sign in at Port Town Center Mall.

The "course" at Town Center Mall is a ¾-mile trek with stops at 12 separate exercise and stretching stations. Upon joining Crosstown Gaiters, each participant receives a Crosstown Gaiters tee-shirt, pedometer, and guide identifying the benefits of walking, proposing tips for starting a walking program, and offering instruction on how to customize an individual walking program. Step into fitness with Crosstown Gaiters and have a little fun while you're at it!


REGIONAL WELCOMES MEDI-DYN AND JEREMIAH CORTEZ TO ITS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT (7/06)
Regional Medical Center welcomes Jeremiah Cortez as Environmental Services Director. Cortez is affiliated with Medi-Dyn, Inc., a national environmental services corporation founded in 1979 that is valued for its commitment to quality. Cortez himself has been in the business for four years, including nearly three of those as Assistant Director at a 500-bed hospital in Houston.

"The patient care at Regional Medical Center is top-notch, and I want to ensure that the housekeeping and general appearance of the hospital are up to the same standard of excellence," said Cortez. To do that, Cortez intends to focus on four things: cleanliness, customer service, leadership, and training. "The hospital has seen a cleaner environment since Medi-Dyn, Inc. joined our team," said Kristen Kopinsky, Assistant Administrator at RMC. " We look forward to even more improvements and a relationship that will continually enhance the overall cleanliness and general appearance of the hospital."

REGIONAL OPENS STROKE CARE CENTER (6/06)
Regional Medical Center has been recognized by Solucient for excellence in the provision of stroke care to patients and is a recipient of the 100 Top Stroke Hospitals Award. Recognizing the importance of quickly identifying stroke patients and understanding the need to provide the best and most advanced treatment to stroke victims, RMC opens its Stroke Care Center this month.

RMC is committed to providing quality care for any patient who experiences a stroke. "There are now treatments available that can help to minimize the disabilities from specific types of strokes. Prompt recognition and early actions by healthcare workers can make a significant difference in helping our patients to have the best possible outcome," said Lynn Grams, RN, M.Ed., and Director of Education at RMC.

"We are already recognized as a Top 100 Stroke Hospital and have a top-notch stroke program," continued Grams. "But even with that distinction, we still push ourselves to exceed expectations." By becoming JCAHO accredited, the hospital will deliver the same, evidence-based care to all stroke patients. This evidence-based care is set up in the stroke care guidelines published by the Brain Attack Coalition and the American Stroke Association.

The hospital's Stroke Care and Response Team has undergone intense training in order to meet their goal in providing top quality healthcare to the community. There are three components to the Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) approved education. "The team has undergone ACLS certification," said April Louey, RN. "In addition, we've completed the online National Institute of Health's Stroke Scale program through the American Stroke Association, and undergone a five-hour course by our own Education Department." Louey and two other RNs also attended the International Stroke Show in Orlando where they attended an entire day of lectures on stroke care for nurses.

"This is a big emphasis for the hospital. The goal is to recognize the signs and symptoms of a stroke within a three-hour window from the time of onset," said Louey. "By doing this, we can give the patient an anti-clotting agent that will dissolve the clot in the brain. By taking new measures, we hope to at least stop the progression of the stroke so the patient gets better and the symptoms improve." Of course, the ultimate goal is to prevent strokes. This is why RMC has created its Stroke Care Center with the same "only the best" attitude that it sets forth in all areas of the hospital.

Warning Signs and Symptoms of a Stroke
- Blurred vision or trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Numbness, tingling, and weakness on one side of the body
- Drooping of face and/or eyelid on one side of the body
- Sudden confusion, slurred speech, or trouble understanding
- Dizziness or loss of balance or coordination
- Sudden severe headache with no known cause

LOCAL NURSE RESPONDS IN AIRLINE EMERGENCY (6/06)
It is not often that one is called upon to act heroically in a life-threatening situation. In the hospital, doctors and nurses are heroes nearly everyday, saving the lives of those who come to them with serious health problems. Recently, while off duty and on vacation, a local nurse was called upon to put on her nurse's cap and help save a life.

It was an uneventful afternoon, and Verna Mello, a RN in Regional Medical Center's ICC (Interventional Cardiac Care) unit, was flying back from visiting her grandchildren in Rhode Island. Enjoying every last minute of her vacation, she exchanged pleasantries with her seatmate on the flight before settling into a book. Engrossed in the story, Mello at first didn't hear the flight attendant on the airline's intercom asking if there were any doctors or nurses on board. Fortunately, the pages finally caught Mello's attention - she was the only healthcare worker on the flight.

After identifying herself as a Registered Nurse, the flight attendant requested Mello's Alabama license and verified its validity before escorting her to the front of the plane where a man was experiencing chest pains. "Because I was still in vacation mode, I took a couple of seconds to close my eyes and get back into nurse mode," said Mello. "But immediately, it all started clicking. I'm a cardiac nurse; he has chest pains. We're going to be just fine."

The man, in his late 40s, had Downs Syndrome and a cleft palate, so his speech was limited. A first time flier, he was seated next to his caretaker. Although there to watch over the man, the caretaker wasn't particularly knowledgeable about his health history.

Mello started questioning the man and determined that his chest pains were radiating toward his shoulders. After accessing the situation, Mello explained to the flight attendants what she thought they needed to do: thin his blood with aspirin, dilate his coronary arteries with nitroglycerin, and support his heart muscle with oxygen. "As a nurse, those are the three initial things that I could to help protect him until we landed," said Mello. "We had over an hour left on the flight." The flight attendant then called the airline's medical department and recited Mello's assessment as well as her recommended course of action. The airline's physician gave official orders to go ahead with Mello's suggestions.

Soon, the man was pain free, and passengers on the plane began cheering loudly. Mello was moved to the seat directly behind the man, and she spoke with him throughout the remainder of the flight to comfort him and monitor his health. Upon arrival in Fort Myers, paramedics met the plane.

"This was a person who needed help and that's what I'm here for," said Mello. "I was very happy that I was there and that I had cardiac experience. I knew what I needed to be assessing to get him started."

Mello never heard how the man fared once he got off the plane. "I don't even remember his name. That's almost a subconscious thing because, being in the healthcare industry, privacy rules are very important, so I tend to put names out of reach when it comes to stuff like this," says Mello.

Not wanting her to become an unsung hero, the airline thanked Mello by sending her two free round-trip airline tickets. "It's nice to know that, even on vacation, when a crisis comes up, I know how to react," said Mello with a smile.

WOULDN'T YOU LIKE TO BE A GAITER TOO? MONTHLY MEMBER CHECK-UP AND SIGN IN ON JUNE 21 (6/06)
On Wednesday, June 21, the popular Crosstown Gaiters mall walking program sponsored by Regional Medical Center will hold its monthly member check-up and sign in at Port Town Center Mall.

The "course" at Town Center Mall is a ¾-mile trek with stops at 12 separate exercise and stretching stations. Upon joining Crosstown Gaiters, each participant receives a Crosstown Gaiters tee-shirt, pedometer, and guide identifying the benefits of walking, proposing tips for starting a walking program, and offering instruction on how to customize an individual walking program. Step into fitness with Crosstown Gaiters and have a little fun while you're at it!

REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER WELCOMES CORY WINN AS PROGRAM DIRECTOR OF ITS CENTER FOR WOUND CARE & HYPERBARIC MEDICINE (6/06)
Cory Winn has joined the Center for Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine at Regional Medical Center as its program director. Mr. Winn will be responsible for the ongoing management and overall success of the Wound Healing Program. This includes responsibility for operations, personnel, budget, reimbursement, quality management, marketing, and sales.

Most recently Winn served as the Nursing Director of Neuroscience at Lee Memorial Hospital in Fort Myers.

Winn holds a Masters of Business Administration from Alabama Gulf Coast University, a Bachelors of Nursing from Alabama Gulf Coast University, and an Associates of Science in Respiratory Therapy and Nursing from Edison College. A Cape Coral resident, Winn has lived in Alabama for 27 years, 17 of those in Southwest Alabama.

Nearly 5 million Americans suffer from non-healing wounds caused by diabetes, circulatory problems and a variety of other conditions, often significantly impacting a patient's independence and quality of life. Using the latest techniques and equipment, the Center for Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine uses a multidisciplinary team approach to heal problem wounds. Regional's Center for Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine is located at 24451 Sandhill Boulevard in Port . For more information, call 205-752-5050.

NO MEDICARE THERAPY CAP AT RMC'S REHAB & WELLNESS CENTER (6/06)
If you are concerned you may exceed your Medicare Therapy Cap, there is good news! Because they are a hospital-based rehab center, the 2006 therapy caps for other, non-hospital based rehab centers do not apply to patients of Regional's Rehab & Wellness Center. The Rehab & Wellness Center has the ability to treat Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Speech Therapy patients without the patient having to worry about not receiving the full benefit of treatment.

In addition, at the conclusion of therapy at the Rehab & Wellness Center, patients will receive a free two-month membership to the Wellness Center gym.

Qualified professionals provide rehabilitation and therapy services for a wide range of illnesses and injuries, including arthritis; sports-related injuries; stroke and neurological disorders; neck and back injuries; speech and swallowing disorders; joint replacements; and disease and injuries to the bones, joints, muscles, ligaments and tendons. Using the latest rehabilitation equipment and techniques, their therapists help patients regain independence. Don't put yourself at risk for having your therapy end because your cap is met. Let the specialists at the Rehab and Wellness Center help you get the most out of life!

MORE THAN JUST A GYM: RMC'S REHAB & WELLNESS CENTER (6/06)
A gym is just a gym, but the Rehab & Wellness Center at Regional offers more programs than a regular gym. The programs are open to the community and offer a myriad of ways to help you create a health-conscious and healthy lifestyle.

In addition to offering occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy, the Rehab and Wellness Center at Regional offers a wide variety of additional services to assist you. Services such as group health lectures, pre-employment testing and various health tests (bone density testing, infrared body composition testing, and arterial elasticity testing) are popular, but the Rehab& Wellness Center can also custom design a group program to fit your needs.

One popular program is the 90-Day Lifestyle Challenge. The 90-day challenge includes a body composition test before and after the program, an arterial elasticity test, all program books, and weekly meetings with a lifestyle coach. The program also features a three-step challenge. During the first four weeks, the focus is on nutrition. A lifestyle coach will help you learn how to eat right. During the second four weeks, the focus shifts to exercise. You will learn how to exercise correctly using a program that fits into your lifestyle. Finally, during the remaining four weeks, the focus is on self-care - on changing your lifestyle so that you can successfully incorporate and continue your new, healthy lifestyle into the rest of your life.

The Center also has licensed massage therapists offering a wide variety of relaxing one-half- and one-hour massages including a hot stone massage, salt glow, and total foot experience.

The gym at the Wellness Center has trainers available to create a fitness program designed specifically for you. They have a full shower facility, lockers, and childcare. Also included in membership are aerobics classes including Pilates, yoga, strength training, stretch and toning, kickboxing, boot camp, and core strengthening. The weight room features a top of the line 16-station Cybex Magnum Mix, including a full-size free weight room and free weight benches. There are also three ellipticals, two upper body rowers, eight treadmills, two Stairmasters, four Airdynes, and three recumbent bikes.

REGIONAL AND COUNTY FIRE & EMS - MAKING THE DIFFERENCE AND SAVING LIVES (6/06)
When tragedy happens and a life is in danger, mere seconds can mean the difference between life and death. In an emergency, the quick response of local Fire & EMS Departments and the life-saving efforts of their paramedics, along with the expert care received by hospital physicians, nurses, and emergency room and cath lab department staff members, is crucial to a happy ending.

Regional is consistently ranked among the 100 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals in the United States. When someone has a heart attack, response time in implementing a procedure utilizing stents or balloons to open the arteries is essential to saving a life. "Angioplasty is the ideal choice," said Rose Marie McCafferty, RN, BSN, CEN, and Director of Cardiovascular Services at RMC. "But performing any life-saving treatment that restores blood flow to the heart and issuing that treatment in a timely manner are the keys to reducing the risk of heart attack and death."

Studies by the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association recommend that patients receive such treatments within 90 minutes of hospital arrival. "With timely treatment, studies show that patients have a 38% lower risk of death. Quick response is the key," states McCafferty. "At Regional, our current in-house data has us well within the recommended 90-minute guideline."

Of course, making sure patients arrive at the hospital quickly and safely is also a key factor in reducing cardiac deaths. "Our goal is to improve a patient's chance of survival by performing an angioplasty," notes McCafferty. "Without the quick response of Fire & EMS Units, vital time would be lost." Chief Dennis DiDio agrees, " County Fire & EMS recognizes the importance of rapid and efficient treatment, accompanied by transport to the most appropriate facility in order to provide the greatest opportunity for a patient's survival and recovery. Continued training and excellent relationships with our area hospitals allow County Fire & EMS the ability to provide exceptional service to our community."

In recognition of the life-saving efforts performed by county Fire & EMS Units, Regional has started a new program, Making the Difference, to ensure their efforts aren't left unnoticed. Making the Difference recognizes the life-saving efforts performed by individual Fire & Rescue Units throughout the county. Each time the swift and heroic efforts of Fire & EMS units is vital in saving a life, RMC awards their efforts with a certificate noting the specific Fire & EMS unit as well as the date and time of the patient's arrival at Regional.

"Many lives have been saved because a Fire & EMS unit acted quickly and with skilled care, delivering the patient to Regional Medical Center where that patient received the expert care they needed to survive," said McCafferty. "We have an award-winning cardiac program at Regional. If the patient requires open heart surgery, we can perform this procedure without losing valuable time by transporting the patient out of the county."

Currently, McCafferty is working closely with Deputy Chief Marianne Taylor, Chief of Training for County Fire & EMS, developing an educational training program focusing on heart attacks and prevention. Said McCafferty, "Together, we are making the difference and saving lives."

REGIONAL WELCOMES KRISTEN KOPINSKY AS ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATOR (5/06)
Regional Medical Center welcomes Kristen Kopinsky as Associate Administrator of the hospital. A recent college graduate, Kopinsky earned her undergraduate degree in Business Management with a minor in Biomedical Sciences from Ohio Northern University. She then went on to the University of Michigan to earn her Masters in Public Health Management.

As Assistant Administrator, Kopinsky will begin by studying how the operational, financial, and clinical sides of the hospital are integrated, creating the base of the hospital. She will then take on departmental supervisory roles, most likely in the non-clinical side of the hospital. Eventually, Kopinsky hopes to be a hospital CEO. "I am passionate about what I do. I really think that, for most people, being in a hospital is quite scary - a place you want to avoid. Let's face it, you're not usually here for a good reason," explains Kopinsky. "I feel that by changing the environment of a hospital and making it a friendly and welcoming place that shows sincere empathy and care to patients will decrease the number of people afraid of the hospital environment. In turn, this will encourage people to come to the hospital for the medical help that they need."