West Valley Hospital: News and Events:

Salem — The Community Health Education Center (CHEC) will be hosting Chef Jesse Tomaino from local restaurant Prudence Uncorked on Monday, March 22, from 6 to 8 p.m., in The Gehlar Wellness Kitchen.

Insisting on serving only fresh, simply prepared perfection, Chef Tomaino will be demonstrating a range of culinary surprises. The menu will include many delicious recipes including seared ahi tuna salad with fat-free lime vinaigrette, cumin scented carrot puree, herb and balsamic marinated chicken breast, wild mushroom bread pudding, and red wine poached pear with kiwi sorbet. After the demonstration, you’ll be able to sample the food and take home the recipes to try in your own home.

Chef Tomaino is an alumnus of the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco, Calif., and has worked at various restaurants throughout the country.

Part of the CHEC’s Chef Showcase series of cooking classes, the class will take place in The Gehlar Wellness Kitchen in the CHEC, located on the first floor of Building D on the Salem Hospital campus, 939 Oak St. SE. Parking is available in the visitor parking garage on the corner of Mission Street Southeast and Capitol Street Southeast.

The cost of the class is $20 and advance registration is required. To reserve a seat, please visit http://salemhealth.org/chec or call 503-814-CHEC (2432).

The Community Health Education Center and Salem Hospital are each a part of Salem Health, which includes West Valley Hospital and other affiliated healthcare organizations offering quality care to people in and around Oregon’s Willamette Valley.

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Class to help siblings prepare for birth of a baby March 20

March 5, 2010

Salem — The birth of a new baby is a life-changing event and one that affects all members of the family. On March 20, the Community Health Education Center (CHEC) is offering a class to help big brothers- and sisters-to-be and their parents plan for the baby’s birth.

Big brothers and sisters will learn what to expect when the baby arrives and will design a onesie shirt for the new baby. A tour of the Mother/Baby Unit is included.

The Big Brother/Big Sister Sibling class will take place on Saturday, March 20, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., in the CHEC, located on the first floor of Building D on the Salem Hospital campus, 939 Oak St. SE. Parking is available in the visitor parking garage on the corner of Mission Street Southeast and Capitol Street Southeast.

The cost of the class is $15 per child and advance registration is required. Parents are asked to attend the class with their children. There is no charge for parents. To register for the program, please visit http://salemhealth.org/chec or call 503-814-CHEC (2432).

The Community Health Education Center and Salem Hospital are each a part of Salem Health, which includes West Valley Hospital and other affiliated healthcare organizations offering quality care to people in and around Oregon’s Willamette Valley.
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West Valley Hospital Auxiliary scholarship applications due April 9

March 5, 2010

West Valley Hospital Auxiliary is accepting applications for its annual student scholarship award. College students and graduating high school seniors from Polk County pursuing medical or health-related fields may apply. This is the first year the annual $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to two students. Applications must be received by West Valley Hospital no later than Friday, April 9.

Full- and part-time students are eligible. While applicants must be from Polk County, their educational institution does not have to be in Polk County. Scholarships will be made payable to the recipients’ college and winners will be notified within two weeks of the award.

Applications are available online at westvalleyhospital.org, can be picked up at West Valley Hospital, or can be requested by contacting Pat Cozad, volunteer services coordinator, at 503-623-7323.

West Valley Hospital Auxiliary is a long-standing group of citizen volunteers who partner with the hospital to engage the community through activities and helps support future healthcare professionals through auxiliary scholarships.

West Valley Hospital, located at 525 SE Washington Street in Dallas, Oregon, is a critical-access hospital offering 24-hour emergency care, as well as inpatient and outpatient services to people in the Polk County area. A part of Salem Health, West Valley Hospital and its affiliates, Monmouth Medical Center and West Valley Physicians & Surgeons Clinic, partner with Salem Hospital for additional healthcare services.

Amr Hegazi, MD, joins the Comprehensive Pain Center; Hospital in-patient pain management services now available

March 4, 2010

The Comprehensive Pain Center, a part of Salem Health, welcomes Amr Hegazi, MD. Dr. Hegazi will join the pain management team providing medication management and comprehensive and interventional pain management services.

“In our first year, the demand for pain management services has exceeded our expectations,” says Ahmed Ebeid, MD, medical director for the Comprehensive Pain Center. “We are very fortunate to attract someone of Dr. Hegazi’s caliber to join our team. It will make getting pain appointments easier for patients and enable us to respond to referring physician desires to provide hospital in-patient consultations, as well as out-patient services.”

Dr. Hegazi worked for more than five years at the Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas, in anesthesiology and pain management. Prior to that, at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas, he completed his pain management fellowship, as well as his surgery intership and anesthesiology residencies. While at Texas Tech, Dr. Hegazi received awards including outstanding fellow, outstanding senior resident, outstanding researcher and best teaching resident. He received his medical degree from Alexandria University School of Medicine in Alexandria, Egypt.

“The philosophy of the Comprehensive Pain Center serves patients well,” says Dr. Hegazi. “Looking at the many aspects of pain helps tremendously in solving complex pain cases. There is rarely a ‘one-size fits all’ solution and being part of a team that takes a broader view, instead of just a standard approach, is what is important.”

Dr. Hegazi loves hunting, camping, sports and fishing. He moved to Salem with his wife and three children.

New hospital in-patient pain management service
The Comprehensive Pain Center is now offering pain management consultations to hospitalized patients at Salem Hospital based on requests from treating physicians.

“We’ve had a few dozen requests from physicians over the last six months that we’ve been able to cover,” says Dr. Ebeid. “Now that Dr. Hegazi is here, we have the ability to serve patients at our office, as well as at the hospital when requested.”

The Comprehensive Pain Center provides medication review, interventional pain management, implantable solutions, and Multi-D (multidisciplinary) services, in addition to the new in-patient pain management service.

For more information, please call 503-562-6002.

The Comprehensive Pain Center is part of Salem Health. Salem Health includes Salem Hospital, West Valley Hospital, Willamette Health Partners, and other affiliated healthcare organizations offering quality care to people in and around Oregon’s Willamette Valley.

Palliative care: New program helps seriously ill patients improve quality of life

March 1, 2010

Salem — Many people living with illnesses such as cancer, heart disease or kidney failure experience hard-to-control physical symptoms and emotional distress related to their diseases and treatment.

Now Salem Hospital’s new palliative care program can help people with serious illnesses improve their quality of life. The care team includes physicians, nurses, social workers and chaplains, with support from dietitians, physical therapists, pharmacists and complimentary medicine practitioners. Together they help patients understand and find relief from disease symptoms.

Initially, the palliative care program is seeing patients through the Salem Cancer Institute. An $84,600 grant from the Salem Hospital Foundation is funding a clinical nurse educator for the program and providing materials that give patients and families new ideas for managing serious illnesses. A $17,600 grant from The Regence Foundation is providing money for planning and implementation, as well as staff training at the Palliative Care Leadership Center in Portland.

“The assistance provided by the Salem Hospital Foundation and The Regence Foundation has been absolutely essential,” says Becky Ruppert, RN, palliative care nurse. “Palliative care changes lives of patients and families for the better, and these Foundations have made that happen.”

Learn more about Salem Hospital’s new palliative care program by calling Becky Ruppert at 503-561-3133. To learn how you can help the Foundation support services like palliative care, call 503-561-5576.

Enjoy dinner and learn how to prepare heart-healthy culinary delights

February 22, 2010

SALEM—On Wednesday, Feb. 24, the Community Health Education Center (CHEC) and the Salem Cardiovascular Center host an educational and culinary class as the final Heart Month community event. From 6 to 8 p.m., Cardiac Surgeon Tom Winkler, MD, and Ken Kudla, a former Salem Hospital cardiac patient, will prepare a heart- healthy meal to be enjoyed by all while emphasizing the importance of heart-healthy cooking. Held in The Gehlar Wellness Kitchen at the CHEC, the cooking class is $20 and pre-registration is required.

“A healthy diet and lifestyle are the most powerful weapons in fighting heart disease,” says Lori James-Nielsen, RN, director of the Salem Cardiovascular Center for Salem Health. “We’re excited that Dr. Winkler and Mr. Kudla are willing to showcase their talents to help the community see how easy it is to keep heart-health at the forefront.”

Dr. Winkler graduated from the University of Colorado and completed his internship at the University of California, Davis. He is board-certified by the American Board of surgery, American Board of Thoracic Surgery and the Royal College of Surgeons for vascular, cardiac and thoracic surgery. Dr. Winkler treats patients at The Oregon Clinic and does his cardiac surgeries at Salem Hospital.

Ken Kudla, Salem Health’s chief information officer, recovered from a successful quadruple heart-bypass surgery. With a family history of heart disease, Kudla now reads labels, monitors his sodium and saturated fat intake, and loves to cook with heart healthy principles in mind.

To pre-register, go to salemhospital.org/chec or call the Community Health Education Center at 503-814-CHEC (2432).

Salem Health includes Salem Hospital, West Valley Hospital, the Community Health Education Center and other affiliated healthcare organizations offering quality care to people in and around Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Salem Hospital ranked number one in Oregon for cardiac surgery four years in a row (2007-2010) and for overall cardiac services in 2009 by HealthGrades.®

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Kai Engstad, MD, keynotes Heart Fair and Forum

February 12, 2010

On Thursday, Feb. 18, from 6 to 8:30 p.m., the Salem Cardiovascular Center hosts its annual Heart Fair and Forum. Held at Salem Hospital, the forum offers health information displays and a presentation about the latest advances in treating heart disease. The fair and forum are free for all ages.

“Salem Hospital’s annual Heart Fair and Forum is one facet of our continued effort to educate and empower our community about heart-healthy living,” says Lori James-Nielsen, RN, director of the Salem Cardiovascular Center for Salem Health. “We want to help the community make healthier lifestyle choices and become informed about how to best prevent and treat heart disease.”

The health fair goes from 6 to 7 p.m. outside Salem Hospital’s Wedel Auditorium in Building B. Sick of being tired? Learn how poor sleep affects your heart health and get current preventative treatment options. Do you have high blood pressure or cholesterol? Discover the benefits of monitoring and managing your heart health. Do you know if you are exercising and eating the right foods for your heart? Fair participants can learn about these topics and many other heart health issues from Salem Hospital experts.

At the forum presentation from 7 to 8:30 p.m., including a question-and-answer session, Cardiac Surgeon Kai Engstad, MD, will discuss “A Cardiac Surgeon’s Musings on the Latest Advancements in Treating Heart Disease.” Dr. Engstad graduated from St. George’s University in Grenada. He completed residencies at The Brooklyn Hospital Center in New York and St. Barnabas Medical Center in New Jersey and went on to complete his fellowship at Oregon Health & Science University. Dr. Engstad treats patients at The Oregon Clinic and does his cardiac surgeries at Salem Hospital. Dr. Engstad’s forum will be held in the Salem Hospital Wedel Auditorium in Building B.

Parking is available in the hospital parking structure or under Building A.

Pre-registration is required for this free event. To pre-register, go to salemhospital.org/chec or call the Community Health Education Center at 503-814-CHEC (2432). For a complete calendar of Heart Month events, go to salemhospital.org/cardiac.

Keep your heart strong with NIA Focus exercise program

February 10, 2010

Salem — The Community Health Education Center (CHEC) at Salem Hospital will be offering NIA (Neuromuscular Integrated Action) Focus fitness classes on Mondays and Wednesdays, beginning Feb. 22 and running through March 24. Become flexible, agile, grounded, and strong. Move through life with greater awareness, ease, and comfort regardless of your age or fitness level. NIA Focus includes a combination of nine classic movement forms as well as a focus on balance and maintenance of proper body alignment. The NIA Focus classes will be held from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. at the Community Health Education Center located on the first floor of Building D on the Salem Hospital campus, 939 Oak St. SE. Parking is available in the visitor parking garage on the corner of Mission Street Southeast and Capitol Street Southeast.

The cost for this ten-session program is $50 and it is open to anyone in the community. Space is limited however and pre-registration is required. To reserve a spot, please visit http://salemhealth.org/chec or call 503-814-CHEC (2432). The class can be done in any form of comfortable clothing.

West Valley Hospital offers free health screenings and information on heart health

January 29, 2010

DALLAS—Learn about heart-healthy living on Feb. 10, from 2 to 4 p.m., at West Valley Hospital at its annual "Go Red in Dallas" event. Come by 525 SE Washington St. for free blood pressure checks, cholesterol screens, heart-health information, refreshments and more.

"We encourage our Polk County community to join us in celebrating Heart Month," says Diane Rocak, a West Valley Hospital occupational therapist. "By partnering with the Salem Cardiovascular Center, we are just one of several great events this month that help people learn more about their heart health."

At "Go Red in Dallas," attendees can talk with health specialists and learn about nutrition, diabetes, cardiac exercise, imaging, cardiac stress testing and more.

For a complete listing of Heart Month activities, go to salemhospital.org/cardiac. Heart Month events include opportunities for free health screenings, heart-healthy culinary events, a fun-filled and educational family day at Salem Riverfront Park, and educational forums on diabetes, heart disease, and the latest advancements in treating cardiac diseases.

For more information, contact Jeanne Silsby, Salem Health, 503-561-2761, jeanne.silsby@salemhospital.org

Help your heart by attending February Heart Month events

January 29, 2010

To promote heart-healthy living, Salem Cardiovascular Services, a part of Salem Health, has planned several heart-related events in February. February Heart Month activities are open to the public and include free health screenings, healthy heart culinary programs, a fun-filled and educational family day at Salem Riverfront Park, and educational forums on diabetes, heart disease, and the latest cardiac treatment advancements.

"This year, we are providing our community with a myriad of events focused on heart health," says Lori James-Nielsen, RN, director of the Salem Cardiovascular Center for Salem Health. "Information and resources will be available throughout the month at various locations to promote heart health awareness and encourage individuals to take responsibility for their health."

Heart Month 2010 Schedule of Events

To pre-register for any of these events, go to salemhospital.org/chec or call the Community Health Education Center at 503-814-CHEC (2432). To print a complete calendar of Heart Month events, go to salemhospital.org/cardiac.

Friday, Feb. 5

9 a.m.–6 p.m. – The opening event of Heart Month is on National Wear Red Day. Join the fun and wear something red while receiving free blood pressure and cholesterol health screenings at the Community Health Education Center (CHEC), Building D, on the Salem Hospital campus.6–8 p.m. – Salem Health Executive Chef Sean Roe and Weight Watchers expert Jena Hedding host a class on "The Joy of Healthy Cooking." The course will be held at the CHEC for $35. Pre-registration is required.

Wednesday, Feb. 10

2–4 p.m. – Salem Health’s West Valley Hospital in Dallas is providing an afternoon of free blood pressure checks, cholesterol screenings, informational displays and heart-healthy refreshments. 525 SE Washington St., Dallas.

Thursday, Feb. 11

6:30–7:30 p.m. – Certified Diabetes Educator Eileen Schramm, RN, will present on diabetes and heart disease. This free Healthy Hearts Educational Support Group will take place at the CHEC in Classroom 1. Pre-registration is required.

Saturday, Feb. 13

10 a.m.–2 p.m. – Join the fun at Salem Riverfront Park for this free "Family Day at the Carousel." Activities include free rides, blood pressure checks, cholesterol screenings and multiple information booths. Get tips on child health and wellness; understand heart disease diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation; and learn about diabetes…all in a fun family event!

Wednesday, Feb. 17

6–8 p.m. – Learn how to prepare and create easy, heart-smart culinary delights in this two-hour cooking class at the CHEC. Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator Rachael Beyer discusses ingredient and tool tips for easy recipe preparation. The class is $20. Pre-registration is required.

Thursday, Feb. 18

6–7 p.m. – Attend a free, educational heart-health fair at Salem Hospital, Building B. Experts from the Salem Cardiovascular Center will be available to discuss heart related topics such as child health and wellness, heart disease diagnosis, heart treatments, cardiac rehabilitation, diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol, sleep disorders, abnormal heart rhythms and more.

7–8:30 p.m. – Cardiac surgeon, Kai Engstad, MD, speaks on "A Cardiac Surgeon’s Musings on the Latest Advancements in Treating Heart Disease." Learn about the latest technologies and treatments for people suffering from heart disease. Dr. Engstad’s presentation, and a question-and-answer session, will be held in the Salem Hospital Wedel Auditorium, Building B. Pre-registration is required for this free presentation. Parking is available in the parking structure or under Building A.

Wednesday, Feb. 24

6–8 p.m. – Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about heart-healthy cooking while enjoying the meal that Cardiac Surgeon Tom Winkler, MD, and Ken Kudla, one of his former patients, prepare for your educational and culinary enjoyment. The class is $20 at the CHEC. Pre-registration is required.

Salem Health includes Salem Hospital, West Valley Hospital, the Community Health Education Center and other affiliated healthcare organizations offering quality care to people in and around Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Salem Hospital ranked number one in Oregon for cardiac surgery four years in a row (2007-2010), and for overall cardiac services in 2009, by HealthGrades.^{® ###
For more information, contact Jeanne Silsby, Salem Health, 503-561-2761, jeanne.silsby@salemhospital.org}

CHEC to offer heart healthy cooking class Feb. 5

January 29, 2010

Salem — The Community Health Education Center (CHEC) at Salem Hospital will be holding a cooking class titled “The joy of healthy cooking” on Friday Feb. 5 from 6 to 8 p.m. The class will be held in The Gehlar Wellness Kitchen at the Community Health Education Center located on the first floor of Building D on the Salem Hospital campus, 939 Oak Street SE.

Part of the CHEC’s Friday night out series of cooking classes, “The joy of healthy cooking” will be taught by Jena Hedding of Weight Watchers and Salem Health Executive Chef Sean Roe and will focus on heart healthy recipes. The cost of the class is $35 and includes dinner. Pre-registration is required and can be done by visiting salemhealth.org/chec or calling 503-814-CHEC (2432).

Salem Health seeks advice from area physicians

January 19, 2010

Salem — Salem Health is asking mid-Willamette Valley physicians to provide feedback on how health care providers can collaborate better to improve services to area residents.

A short 10-minute survey is available for physicians online and must be completed by Tuesday, Jan. 26. The survey has been distributed by Marion Polk Medical Society and sent directly to physicians. Salem Health will donate $5 to the Marion Polk County Medical Society’s Project Access/MedAssist for each completed survey and donate an additional $100 for every 100 surveys returned. Area physicians who need the survey’s Web address can call Salem Health Community Relations at 503-561-5269.

Salem Health has embarked on a strategic planning process — Salem Health 2020 — that will guide the organization over the next ten years. The region’s largest health-care provider, Salem Health recently completed a community outreach effort in Salem, Keizer, Dallas, Independence and Monmouth, receiving ideas from more than 1,000 residents. The top five actions requested by community members require close collaboration between hospitals, physicians, and other health-care providers.

Salem Health, the parent organization of Salem Hospital and West Valley Hospital, is a not-for-profit health system created by and for the people of the mid-Willamette Valley and governed by a local Board of Trustees. Salem Health serves more than 300,000 people in the Mid-Willamette region as an essential health-care resource. Services include highly rated acute hospital services such as cardiac and emergency care (the busiest emergency room in Oregon in 2008), state-of-the-art cancer services, specialty care for high-risk pregnancies, and programs that keep people healthy.

Top five actions community members requested from Salem Health

Community members ranked the following as the five top actions they wanted Salem Health to pursue:

Achieve the best healthcare results for each treatment / service offered.
Hospital, physicians, other medical providers work together to coordinate patient care.
Provide a “continuum of care” that assures no gaps in patient services.
Help patients navigate medical services and make their own decisions.
Support patients with chronic disease to stay healthier and out of hospitals.

Free course offered for people caring for disabled loved ones begins Jan. 21

January 15, 2010

Salem — Beginning Jan. 21, a series of classes titled “Powerful Tools for Caregivers” will be held Thursdays from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at the Community Health Education Center (CHEC) on the Salem Hospital campus.

The six-week educational program is for family and friends caring for older adults who have Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, disabilities caused by stroke, or similar long-term conditions. The class provides caregivers with the skills and confidence to better care for themselves while caring for others. Class members receive The Caregiver Helpbook, which is a great resource to help caregivers seek and find solutions for their situation.

“Powerful Tools for Caregivers” is free but a $25 donation is recommended to cover the cost of the book. Space is limited and advance registration is required. To reserve a spot, please visit http://salemhealth.org/chec or call 503-814-CHEC (2432). The CHEC is located on the first floor of Building D on the Salem Hospital campus, 939 Oak St. SE.

CHEC giving away healthy resolutions gift basket

January 12, 2010

Salem — For many, the New Year brings a number of new resolutions triggered by a desire to get healthy. To help kickstart your New Year’s resolutions, Community Health Education Center is giving away a healthy resolutions gift basket valued at $150. The basket includes a gift certificate for a cooking class of your choice, exercise ball, jump rope, resistance tube, complete food and nutrition guide, pedometer and more.

To enter the drawing for the basket, fill out an entry blank at the CHEC, located on the first floor of Building D on the Salem Hospital campus, 939 Oak St. SE, anytime before Feb. 1. No purchase is necessary. The drawing will take place on Feb. 2.

If this is the year that you vow to eat healthier, quit smoking again, or stick with your exercise plan, CHEC can help with information, classes and support groups to keep you on track. For a complete listing of classes and events and to register, visit http://salemhealth.org/chec or call 503-814-CHEC (2432). The CHEC is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

CHEC to offer healthy back class Jan. 15

January 12, 2010

Salem — Good posture, body mechanics and exercise are essential to maintaining a healthy back. The Community Health Education Center (CHEC) at Salem Hospital will be offering a healthy back class to help you learn how to keep your back strong and decrease the risk of injury. The class will include easy-to-follow strength and flexibility exercises to help you continue doing the activities you enjoy.

Offered in conjunction with the Salem Spine Center and taught by an experienced physical therapist, this class will be held on Friday, Jan. 15, from 1 to 2 p.m., in the CHEC located on the first floor of Building D on the Salem Hospital campus, 939 Oak St. SE.

The cost of the class is $5 and advance registration is required. To register, please visit http://salemhealth.org/chec or call 503-814-CHEC (2432). Parking is available in the visitor parking garage on the corner of Mission Street Southeast and Capitol Street Southeast.

"Fathers of Young Children" class begins Jan. 5 at the CHEC

December 23, 2009

Salem — The Community Health Education Center (CHEC) at Salem Hospital will be offering a class titled “Fathers of Young Children,” beginning on Tuesday, Jan. 5, and continuing on Tuesdays through Jan. 26. The program is offered for dads with children ages birth to five years and meets from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the CHEC, located in Salem Hospital's Building D at 939 Oak St. S.E.

Based on a curriculum developed by Purdue University, this four-week interactive parenting class series helps fathers learn more about the art of parenting and how to promote healthy parent/child relationships. Class topics will include understanding your child’s growth stages through play, language development and art; styles of fathering; choosing childcare and teaming with your parenting partner.

The cost of this four-class series is $35 and advance registration is required. To register, visit http://salemhealth.org/chec or call 503-814-CHEC (2432). Parking is available in the visitor parking garage on the corner of Mission Street Southeast and Capitol Street Southeast.

Jump start new-year resolutions with healthy cooking classes in January

December 21, 2009

Salem — The Community Health Education Center (CHEC) at Salem Hospital will be holding several cooking classes during the month of January. All classes will focus on healthy recipes using fresh, local ingredients and will be held at The Gehlar Wellness Kitchen in the CHEC, located on the first floor of Building D on the Salem Hospital campus, 939 Oak St. SE.

The Friday Night Out series will continue with “Healthful Resolutions” on Friday, Jan. 8, from 6 to 8 p.m. A representative from Weight Watchers will share ways to prepare satisfying foods that keep hunger in check, and Salem Hospital Executive Chef Sean Roe will demonstrate nutritious Weight Watchers recipes that you can easily make at home. The cost of this class is $35 and includes dinner at the hospital’s Creekside restaurant after class. Dinner will include menu items demonstrated in the class.

“Recipe Modification” will be the next class in the Culinary Rx series and will take place on Wednesday, Jan. 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. This class will focus on making meals that are healthy as well as delicious as part of any New Year’s resolution. With a few substitutions and modifications, you’ll learn how to transform your favorite not-so-healthy recipes into ones that are better for you and still taste good. The cost of this class is $20.

The CHEC’s January Chef Showcase will feature the master baker at Cascade Baking Company who will share a few of the bakery’s signature recipes. This class will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 19, from 6 to 8 p.m., and will include recipes with fresh, local ingredients and high-quality flours. After the demonstration you’ll be able to sample the food and take home the recipes to try in your own home. The cost of this class is $20.

Space is limited for each of these cooking classes and pre-registration is required. To reserve a spot, please visit http://salemhealth.org/chec or call 503-814-CHEC (2432).

Family nutrition program combats childhood obesity, begins Jan. 13

December 16, 2009

Salem — With rates of childhood obesity steadily rising, it is becoming recognized as a disease itself and has been linked with other conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and certain forms of cancer.

Beginning Jan. 13, the Community Health Education Center (CHEC) at Salem Hospital will offer a new nutrition counseling program called Healthy ‘n Fit to help combat obesity in children and promote healthy lifestyles.

The 10-week program, for children ages 8 through 15 years old and their families, is designed to teach families lifestyle behaviors that will help overweight children achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Taught by a registered dietitian and exercise specialist, the structured program includes an individual assessment along with ten fun and motivating weekly group classes. Some of the weekly classes will feature healthy recipe ideas demonstrated in The Gehlar Wellness Kitchen. Topics covered include portion control, emotional eating, physical activity, eating healthy at restaurants and healthy snacking.

Classes are taught on Wednesdays, Jan. 13 through March 17. All classes are held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the CHEC, located on the first floor of Building D on the Salem Hospital campus, 939 Oak St. S.E. Parking is available in the visitor parking garage on the corner of Mission Street Southeast and Capitol Street Southeast.

The cost of the 10-week program is $150 and advance registration is required. To register for the program, please visit http://salemhealth.org/chec or call 503-814-CHEC (2432).

Tobacco cessation program at CHEC begins Jan. 6

December 16, 2009

Salem — The Community Health Education Center (CHEC) at Salem Hospital is offering a tobacco cessation program sponsored by the American Lung Association® titled “Freedom from Smoking.” The seven-week program includes a series of classes taught in a group setting Wednesdays, beginning on Jan. 6, and running through Feb. 17.

“Freedom from Smoking,” the leading adult smoking cessation program for over 25 years, will show you how to quit smoking in a supportive setting. Having the support of others has been shown to be an essential part of any successful smoking cessation program. All classes are taught by an American Lung Association-trained instructor and will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. at the CHEC, located on the first floor of Building D on the Salem Hospital campus, 939 Oak St. S.E.

This program will help you develop your own quit-smoking plan and includes a participant workbook covering the following topics: knowing if you’re ready to quit smoking, medicines to help you quit smoking, lifestyle changes that make quitting easier, planning for quit day, coping strategies, managing stress, avoiding weight gain and how to stay smoke-free for good.

The cost of the seven-week, eight-session program is $120. Advance registration is required and can be done by visiting http://salemhealth.org/chec or calling 503-814-CHEC (2432).

Parking is available in the visitor parking garage on the corner of Mission Street Southeast and Capitol Street Southeast.

Many insurance companies, including Oregon Health Plan, may offer benefits related to smoking cessation or nicotine replacement. Please check with your insurance company for coverage details.

Brain Agility program begins Jan. 5 at CHEC

December 16, 2009

Salem — The Community Health Education Center (CHEC) at Salem Hospital is offering a seven-week Brain Agility program beginning on Tuesday, Jan. 5, and running through Tuesday, Feb. 16. The class will be held from 9 to 10 a.m., at the CHEC located on the first floor of Building D on the Salem Hospital campus, 939 Oak St. S.E.

The Brain Agility program, designed to help you keep a healthy and youthful brain, combines weekly presentations on brain health with a unique program designed by a psychologist to enhance your brain's ability to remember, stay focused, be aware and be alert. Enjoy daily mental exercises covering a number of cognitive functions with increasing levels of difficulty to continue challenging your brain as it improves.

The cost for the Brain Agility program is $35 and it is open to anyone in the community. Space is limited, however, and advance registration is required. To reserve a spot, please visit http://salemhealth.org/chec or call 503-814-CHEC (2432).

Dr. Rebecca M. Lucas joins West Valley Hospital as Emergency Department Medical Director

November 30, 2009

Rebecca M. Lucas, DO, has joined West Valley Hospital as Emergency Department medical director. Dr. Lucas will oversee the emergency staff and growth of emergency services supporting the Dallas-area community. From the valley to the coast, West Valley Hospital Emergency Department serves more than 1,000 patients monthly.

“West Valley Hospital has a great reputation and is a well-run facility,” says Dr. Lucas. “I look forward to ensuring we provide the best service and care to our patients in this thriving community-based hospital.”

Dr. Lucas is new to Oregon, following service in the U.S. Navy where she provided medical care at the Naval Hospital Naples in Italy, the Naval Hospital Bremerton in Washington, and served seven months of active duty in Iraq. Prior to that, she served in hospital staff positions in Chicago, Ill., where she served her residency in emergency medicine at Midwestern University and received the Excellence in Emergency Medicine Award in 1999.

Dr. Lucas earned a medical degree from Midwestern University/Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine and graduated 13 in a class of 153. She received the Excellence in Emergency Medicine Award in 1997 from the Society of Academic Emergency Medicine. Her undergraduate degree in biology and chemistry is from Northern Illinois University where she graduated cum laude.

“We are thrilled to add someone the caliber of Dr. Lucas to our talented staff,” says Lynn Clayton, West Valley Hospital administrator. “Her credentials and exceptional medical experience abroad and in the Navy will bring fresh ideas and leadership as we expand medical services to grow with the needs of Polk County.”

“Dallas is such a vital and friendly community,” says Dr. Lucas. “As native Midwesterners, my husband and I are excited to be living in the Northwest and anxious to get out to enjoy the hiking, the scenery and the people.” Dr. Lucas is married to William Lucas, MD, who she met in the Navy and is now in family medicine in Dallas. “I guess with us, Dallas got a two-fer,” says Dr. Rebecca Lucas.

West Valley Hospital, located at 525 SE Washington Street in Dallas, Oregon, is a critical access hospital offering 24-hour emergency care, as well as inpatient and outpatient services to people in the Polk County area. A part of Salem Health, West Valley Hospital and its affiliates, Monmouth Medical Center and West Valley Physicians & Surgeons Clinic, partner with Salem Hospital for additional healthcare services.

West Valley Hospital hosts Family Health Fair and Forum on Thursday, Nov. 5

October 21, 2009

West Valley Hospital’s third annual Family Health Fair and Forum will be held Thursday, Nov. 5, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at West Valley Hospital, 525 SE Washington St., in Dallas. The free event will include fun activities, refreshments, giveaways, presentations and health information for the entire family.

Presentations on “Weight control strategies that work,” by Charles P. Essex, MD, family practice, and “Preventing heart disease,” by Raghu Kamineni, MD, cardiologist, will be held in the conference room at 6 and 7 p.m., respectively.

“With the holidays just around the corner, we’re providing information and fun activities to help families stay healthy and fit going into the new year,” says Dr. Essex. “This will be fun and informative for adults and kids alike.”

Pick up healthy tips and recipes while browsing displays, talk to hospital staff, get a free blood pressure check and free cholesterol screening, and enjoy a close-up look at a City of Dallas ambulance showcased outside the hospital.

A Nintendo Wii and a free cooking class will be given away in special prize drawings at 8 p.m. Winners are not required to be present at the time of the drawing. To RSVP for the fair and forum, call 503-623-7323.

West Valley Hospital, located in Dallas, Oregon, is a critical-access hospital offering 24-hour emergency care, as well as inpatient and outpatient services to people in the Polk County area. A part of Salem Health, West Valley Hospital and its affiliates, Monmouth Medical Center and West Valley Physicians & Surgeons Clinic, partner with Salem Hospital for additional healthcare services.

Stroke prevention and rehabilitation highlighted at Inpatient Rehabilitation Open House and Forum

September 29, 2009

Having a stroke can change your life. Learn how to prevent a stroke, as well as how to rehabilitate from one, at the Inpatient Rehabilitation Open House and Forum on Thursday, Oct. 8 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Salem Hospital Regional Rehabilitation Center.

Physiatrist Raymond Brumbaugh, MD, Salem Rehabilitation Associates, will speak on “Stroke Prevention and Rehabilitation” at 6:30 p.m.

At 7 p.m., tours will begin, as well as blood pressure checks and cholesterol screenings. At 8 p.m., there will be a prize drawing for a Nintendo Wii. Winners must be present to take home the prize!

The forum is free and everyone is welcome. Please RSVP at 503-814-CHEC (2432). The Regional Rehabilitation Center is located at 2561 Center St. NE, Salem, OR 97301.

The Salem Hospital Regional Rehabilitation Center provides acute, inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation and is part of Salem Health. Salem Health is a not-for-profit healthcare system that includes Salem Hospital, West Valley Hospital and other affiliated healthcare organizations.

West Valley Hospital now provides digital mammograms, X-rays; Patients benefit from state-of-the-art imaging close to home

August 21, 2009

West Valley Hospital has invested more than $250,000 to acquire new Holgic digital mammography and Fuji digital X-ray equipment to enhance their suite of digital imaging services. Physicians and patients will receive images superior to film and be able to have critical imaging services done in Dallas.

“Our digital mammography and X-ray capabilities are on par with Salem and other larger metro areas,” says Shawn Grady, West Valley Hospital imaging supervisor. “We have all current generation equipment so that people in the area have high quality, convenient options for their imaging needs.”

Patients will now get high resolution pictures and physicians will be able to view these pictures on the computer rather than wait for films. The equipment will enable radiologists and physicians to view images from a variety of perspectives facilitating accuracy in measurements, assessments and diagnoses.

West Valley Hospital’s all-digital services include a CT scanner, an X-ray platform, a mammography system, a bone density scanner, and ultrasound machine.

“Our digital mammography equipment will also complement biopsy procedures,” says Grady. “Radiologists view images while the computer helps find additional suspicious tissue areas. It helps increase our sensitivity to potential problem spots.”

West Valley Hospital, located in Dallas, Ore., is a critical access hospital offering 24-hour emergency care, as well as inpatient and outpatient services to people in the Polk County area. A part of Salem Health, West Valley Hospital and its affiliates, Monmouth Medical Center and West Valley Physicians & Surgeons Clinic, partner with Salem Hospital for additional healthcare services.

For more information, contact Jeanne Silsby, 503-561-2761 or jeanne.silsby@salemhospital.org.

West Valley Hospital adds imaging supervisor; Shawn Grady brings old-fashioned work ethic to state-of-the-art facility

August 21, 2009

West Valley Hospital announces the addition of Monmouth resident Shawn Grady as imaging supervisor. Grady will oversee all imaging services, including the hospital’s newly enhanced suite of advanced all-digital imaging.

“Shawn Grady brings enthusiasm, dedication and a good old-fashioned work ethic combined with top-notch experience and skills in MRI, CT and X-ray,” says Lynn Clayton, interim vice president and administrator of West Valley Hospital. “He is a great addition to our local team serving Polk County residents and will be instrumental in managing the growth in our services.”

Grady most recently was MRI/CT supervisor at Northern Inyo Hospital in Bishop, Calif. where he oversaw all aspects of the departments, including accreditation from the American College of Radiology for quality assurance, and implementation of new protocols leading to growth in services. Prior to Northern Inyo Hospital, he trained at Bonner General in Sandpoint, Idaho and Spokane VA Medical Center. Grady holds an Associates Degree in Applied Science from Apollo College in Spokane, Wash.

“I’m excited to join West Valley Hospital,” says Grady. “With our recent digital equipment enhancements we are comparable to the nation’s top hospitals for diagnostic imaging. I look forward to helping support the good health and well-being of this community.”

For more information, contact Jeanne Silsby, 503-561-2761 or jeanne.silsby@salemhospital.org.

West Valley Hospital Foundation Receives Transportation Grant Funding

August 13, 2009

The Oregon Department of Transportation awarded the West Valley Hospital Foundation $4,822 through the Public Transit Division Discretionary Grant program. This funding will be used to support the Connections van transportation program at West Valley Hospital which has been in operation in Polk County since 2001.

The Connections van service provides free curb-to-curb transportation for patients of West Valley Hospital and West Valley Physicians and Surgeons Clinic in Dallas; and Monmouth Medical Center in Monmouth. More than 80 percent of the individuals who receive rides are senior citizens who live in various types of residential care settings. During the last year, this valuable service provided 1,540 rides to patients who might otherwise find it difficult to access needed healthcare.

If you would like to be a volunteer driver, or schedule a pick-up for your medical visit, please call West Valley Hospital at 503-623-8301.

The West Valley Hospital Foundation provides financial support of the van through donor contributions and grant funding. To donate to the program, call 503-831-3456.

The West Valley Hospital foundation is committed to raising, managing and distributing funds to help West Valley Hospital achieve its mission of improving the health and well-being of the people and community it serves.

West Valley Hospital, located in Dallas, Oregon, is a critical access hospital offering 24-hour emergency care, as well as inpatient and outpatient services to people in the Polk County area. A part of Salem Health, West Valley Hospital and its affiliates, Monmouth Medical Center and West Valley Physicians & Surgeons Clinic, partner with Salem Hospital for additional healthcare services.

For more information on this news release, contact Jeanne Silsby at 503-561-2761 or jeanne.silsby@salemhospital.org.

Healthy Hearts Educational Support Group Begins Aug. 13

August 4, 2009

Salem Hospital will be hosting a new support group for cardiac patients, friends and family starting Thursday, Aug. 13, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the Community Health Education Center, Building D, Classroom 1. The Healthy Hearts Educational Support Group will meet on the second Thursday of every month.

“The support group will enable people to better understand heart issues and give them an opportunity to speak with other people who have been through similar experiences,” says Mary Bedell, RN, one of the three Healthy Hearts Educational Support Group coordinators.

“Because of the urgency of heart issues, people don’t often have time to reflect or fully understand their experience until they are recovering at home,” says Anne Norris, RN, support group coordinator.

A nurse will be on hand for each meeting to answer questions. Speakers will also discuss topics related to the heart. On Aug. 13, Raghu Kamineni, MD, cardiologist and medical director of the catheterization lab at Salem Hospital, will speak on “Arteries and Interventions.” At the Sept. 10 support group, Joe Schnabel, pharmacist, will discuss “Managing Cardiac Medications.” Future topics include heart failure, sleep, weight management, vitamins and herbs, and more.

“This group, in combination with Salem Hospital’s new Community Health Education Center, offers people amazing resources to learn about their heart health,” says Amie Wittenberg, RN, support group coordinator.

The Healthy Hearts Educational Support Group is free. Parking is available in the hospital parking structure. For more information, please call 503-814-CHEC (2432).

For more information on this news release, contact Jeanne Silsby at 503-561-2761 or jeanne.silsby@salemhospital.org.

Back Health Forum Slated for Monday, August 10 in Lincoln City

July 29, 2009

Whether you have a healthy back and want to keep it that way, or you are grappling with back pain or spine issues, come to the “Back Talk” health forum on Monday, Aug, 10 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Lincoln City Cultural Center conference room.

Neurosurgeon Maurice Collada, MD, medical director of the Salem Spine Center, will speak on “Back pain solutions: A new approach to spine care” at 10 a.m. He will address common back issues, treatment options and lifestyle impact.

At 11 a.m., physical therapists Julie Tucker and Brenda Schrage, from Salem Hospital Regional Rehabilitation Center, will speak on “Healthy Back: Keep your back safe while doing activities you love.” The presentation will include exercise demonstrations and handouts.

The “Back Talk” health forum will include time for questions and answers.

The forum is free and everyone is welcome. Please RSVP at 503-561-BACK (2225) or 1-866-944-2224 (toll-free). The Lincoln City Cultural Center is located at 540 NE Highway 101, Lincoln City, OR 97367.

The forum is hosted by the Salem Spine Center, a service that helps physician-referred patients quickly get the treatment they need. The Salem Spine Center is part of Salem Health. Salem Health is a not-for-profit healthcare system that includes Salem Hospital, West Valley Hospital and other affiliated healthcare organizations.

For more information on this news release, contact Jeanne Silsby at 503-561-2761 or jeanne.silsby@salemhospital.org.

West Valley Hospital Nurses Honored

June 15, 2009

Salem Health recognized nurses from Salem Hospital and West Valley Hospital for clinical excellence at an awards banquet at the Oregon Gardens in Silverton. The event concluded Nurses Week 2009.

West Valley Hospital winners included Robert Dow, RN, emergency department, in the “Community Service” category; and Joyce Wilder, RN, BSN, interim emergency department and medical/surgery manager, in the “Mentoring” category. Lyle Shane, RN, emergency department, was also honored.

“These awards highlight excellence in the nursing profession,” said Cheryl Nester Wolfe, RN, senior vice president operations and chief nursing officer at Salem Health. “Winners symbolize the quality care patients can expect within our hospital system.”

Dow’s nominator praised him for his extensive volunteer work as a nurse with many different non-profit organizations. “His compassion and love of nursing is known internationally from a lifetime of service,” said the nominator. “He has a gift that he freely shares with others.”

Wilder was recognized as being an example for others to follow. “I can say that I want to be a leader like her when I ‘grow up’ as a nurse,” said her nominator. “Her positive attitude, caring heart, diligent work ethic and excellent nursing skills make her a tremendous asset.”

Shane was acknowledged as being “part of the glue that holds the emergency department staff together.”

Salem Hospital winners included Heather Mohr, RN, and Jeanine Scott, RN, in the “Teaching Category;” Sharon Fetterley, RN in the “Mentoring” category; Becky Ramos, RN, in the “Community Service” category; Cheeri Barnhart, RN, and Steve Henion, RN, in the “Advancing the Profession” category; Jenny Hindhaugh, RN, and Bryan Sprague, RTR, in the “Management” category; and Sara Wargnier, RN, and Amy Cummings, RN, in the “Clinical Care” category.

Save lives with AED (Automated External Defibrillator) knowledge

May 12, 2009

Business owners and risk managers are invited to learn more about automated external defibrillators at the AED Fair & Forum on Tuesday, June 2, from 9 a.m. to noon at Salem Hospital, Building D, second floor conference room. The event is free and open to the public.

“A victim of cardiac arrest is not breathing and has no pulse, posing the threat of brain death within 4 to 6 minutes. An AED is a tool that when used along with CPR can save lives,” said Michael Heffner, Salem Fire Department EMS coordinator. “Whether you are a business, school, church or other entity, if you don’t have an AED, you should come to this event to learn more about them.”

The AED Fair & Forum will feature educational displays, AED vendors, CPR/AED demonstrations and refreshments. AED owners and non-owners are invited to attend to learn about the latest in AEDs. The event is hosted by the Salem Area Public Access Defibrillator Coalition and coincides with National CPR/AED Awareness Week.

Attendees who pre-register for the AED Fair & Forum will be eligible to win a free CPR/AED class for 12 sponsored by the American Red Cross Willamette Chapter. To pre-register, call Nicole Garrett at 503-561-7677. Parking for the event is available in the hospital parking structure.

AEDs are lifesaving electronic devices that deliver an electrical shock to victims of sudden cardiac arrest. AEDs are small, lightweight and have adhesive electrode pads that rescuers attach to the person's chest which deliver a shock to allow the heart to restart itself. Non-medical personnel can use AEDs safely and effectively with minimal training.

The Oregon State Senate recently passed legislation to require AEDs in buildings of a certain size.

“Employers should really take a look at AEDs and get ahead of the curve,” said Heffner. “Not only is it a valuable community service, it helps employees who might have a cardiac arrest get help faster.”

Entities that have AEDs can be recognized by signs or window stickers with a red heart and a lightning symbol going through it. AEDs can be found in Lancaster Mall, Salem Center mall, the Marion County Courthouse and more.

Salem Area Public Access Defibrillator Coalition

The Salem Area Public Access Defibrillator Coalition consists of the American Red Cross Willamette Chapter, the Salem Fire Department, Salem Health and Rural/Metro Ambulance. The coalition is focused on tracking, building and sustaining a local AED network. To-date, approximately 90 AEDs have been identified through voluntary registration in Salem. The coalition’s goal this year is to raise awareness, increase registrations, and double the number of AEDs in the community. The coalition also accepts donations to support its AED grant program.

Check out our archives for more news from Salem Hospital and West valley Hospital.