Inside Penn Medicine

Digital Edition of HUPdate - 12/9/2016

Paul Foster — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 12:30:43 -0500

Click here of the digital edition of HUPdate.

Digital Edition of Presby Bulletin - 12/9/2016

Paul Foster — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 12:27:55 -0500

Click here for the digital edition of Presby Bulletin.

Digital Edition of What's New - 12/9/2016

Paul Foster — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 12:24:56 -0500

Click here for the digital edition of What's New.

Rare Botanical Images Brighten Up Cafeteria Walls

Paul Foster — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 12:22:03 -0500

Patients, guests, and staff can now enjoy some botanical artwork and get a glimpse of history all while dining in the cafeteria at Pennsylvania Hospital. Adorning the walls are reproductions, featuring plants and flowers from the Pennsylvania Hospital Historic Library’s rich collection of botanical rare books dating from the seventeenth to the nineteenth centuries. These volumes were once used as reference for medicinal uses when “drug” treatments were primarily plant based.

These books, among others, are part of the first medical library in the nation, established in 1762. There are more than 13,000 volumes in the collection, some dating back to the 16^th Century. It also includes one of the most complete collections of medical books published between 1750 and 1850.

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Full Court Press on ALS Inaugural Gala

Paul Foster — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 12:21:25 -0500

More than 200 friends, family members, and supporters of the newly launched non-profit Full Court Press on ALS gathered at the Penn Museum last month for an inaugural gala to raise awareness about ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) research and to support Penn’s Comprehensive ALS Clinic at Pennsylvania Hospital.

Michael Honrychs, MD, the founder of Full Court Press on ALS and a patient of the Penn’s ALS clinic, brought everyone together on a beautiful night for a fun evening of cocktails, dinner, dancing, and a silent auction. The gala kicked off a series of events that will occur over the next three months to raise awareness and support for ALS and Penn’s ALS clinic.

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Penn Medicine Raises $1.7 Million for Local Charities

Paul Foster — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 12:20:45 -0500

We made it! The 2017 Penn’s Way Campaign officially drew to a close last month. Thank you to everyone who donated or participated in the campaign this year. Every year, we continue to set bold goals and reach an even broader population in Philadelphia, the Mid-Atlantic Region, and around the world. And this year was another truly remarkable team endeavor: UPHS and our University of Pennsylvania partners raised more than $1.7 million, exceeding our $1.55 million goal!

Pennsylvania Hospital achieved 85 percent participation and raised $102,786 for the Penn’s Way Campaign, $15,958 of which was designated to Pennsylvania Hospital specifically.

Thank you to all of you who contributed to the campaign. Your generosity will have a major impact on the many charities and communities we serve.

Diabetes Education Class Series for PAH Employees

Paul Foster — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 12:19:56 -0500

The Pennsylvania Hospital Diabetes Education Center is hosting a special series of diabetes management classes for Pennsylvania Hospital Employees throughout December. These classes are designed to help individuals with diabetes learn more about self-management. Each session will cover a different topic - attendance at all sessions is encouraged!

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Keep Your Workspace Safe this Holiday Season

Paul Foster — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 12:19:30 -0500

‘Tis the season for decorating! To keep all employees and patients safe this holiday season, the Environment of Care Committees and Safety Management have put together guidelines to help you safely decorate for this festive time of year.

As a reminder, fire and safety codes do not allow combustible decorations to be used in a hospital, ambulatory care, or office building. Therefore, any decorations that are combustible must be rated “flame retardant” and always possess a label indicating such.

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Come Hear the Sounds of Music

Paul Foster — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 12:18:28 -0500

Plan to attend the first concert of the Penn Medicine Symphony Orchestra, which includes UPHS staff and students from the Perelman School of Medicine. The concert will feature Mozart’s overture to The Marriage of Figaro, Rossini’s overture to the Barber of Seville, and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5.

When: Sunday, Dec. 11 at 2 p.m.

Where: Irvine Auditorium at 3401 Spruce St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Admission is free and open to the public.

American Red Cross Blood Drive—January 6, 2017

Paul Foster — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 12:17:52 -0500

7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
McClelland Conference Room

All presenting donors will receive:

Dunkin Donuts Coupon for Medium Coffee and Donut
Long Sleeve Red Cross T-Shirt

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Holiday Outreach

Paul Foster — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 12:17:19 -0500

Is your department or area planning to do holiday outreach in the community? We'd love to share the story of your efforts to brighten this season for others. Please send information about your outreach and photos to Johanna.harvey@uphs.upenn.edu.

Thank you!

Annual Employee Holiday Meal— Wednesday, Dec. 21

Paul Foster — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 12:16:54 -0500

PAH’s annual holiday meal for all employees, professional and affiliated medical offices, and volunteers will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 21 in the Pennsylvania Hospital Cafeteria.

Meal times are:

11 a.m. -- 2:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m. -- 7:45 p.m.

11 p.m. – 1 a.m.

Hosted by the Food and Nutrition Department, the holiday meal is a longtime PAH tradition that celebrates the season and shows appreciation for our staff. Tickets will be available starting Dec. 15 through your department head.

We hope to see you there!

Antibiotic Stewardship at PPMC

Paul Foster — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 12:15:53 -0500

Antibiotics are vital to the practice of modern medicine. They make many things that we take for granted today - like surgery - possible but like anything else, too much of a good thing can be bad.

Changing the way antibiotics are used, and making sure they’re used appropriately, is the goal for the Antibiotic Stewardship team at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center (PPMC). Led by Amanda Binkley, PharmD, AAHIVP and Christo Cimino, PharmD, BCPS, Judith O’Donnell, MD, and Naasha Talati, MD, the local group keeps a close eye on how local prescribers make use of the important drugs.

The stewardship effort has a long history at Penn. One of the first antibiotic stewardship programs in the c, HUP’s program was started in 1992 by associate medical officer Neil Fishman, MD. Now led by Keith Hamilton, MD, an assistant professor of Clinical Medicine and infectious disease physician, the program remains a national model for stewardship programs.

PPMC’s local stewardship team recently wrapped up its annual Antibiotic Stewardship Week, which gave faculty and staff across the hospital a chance to focus on the issue and learn more about what can be done to prevent to over-prescription of antimicrobial drugs. The stewardship team set up a table with games and educational material outside of the cafeteria. Binkley, a clinical pharmacy specialist in Infectious Disease, said it was a huge success.

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PPMC SEPTA Strike Hero

Paul Foster — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 12:15:02 -0500

When many SEPTA workers went on strike last month, many Philadelphians had to get creative to find solutions for transportation in the city.

Gerald Montague, a medical records clerk, was the answer for one Penn Medicine patient who was stranded at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center during the strike. Montague spotted the patient in a lobby of a nearby office at 8 p.m. The patient, who is blind and uses a wheelchair, said that he was waiting for SEPTA CCT, a SETPA service that primarily picks up the city’s senior population.

The CCT ride was supposed to have picked the man up at 4:30 p.m., a full three and a half hours earlier. Montague ducked into an office, gave SEPTA a call, and discovered CCT had gone to the wrong address and they wouldn’t make a trip out to Presby that night.

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Save the Date for the Presby Gala

Paul Foster — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 12:14:10 -0500

Penn Presbyterian Medical Center Board of Trustees, Administration, and Faculty kindly ask you to reserve the date for the 16th Annual Penn Presbyterian Medical Center Gala: Passport to London - A Life in Motion.

Honoring our Hospital Hero: Scott Levin, MD, FACS, Paul B. Magnuson Professor of Bone and Joint Surgery, Chair, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Professor of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery

March 24, 2017

6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

VIE | 600 N Broad Street

Philadelphia, PA 19130

Formal invitation to follow

A Thanksgiving to Remember

Sally Sapega — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 15:30:02 -0500

Spending a holiday in the hospital is hard for both patients and their loved ones, but, thanks to the HEADstrong Foundation, Thanksgiving on HUP’s oncology floors – Rhoads 3,6, and 7, and Dulles 6 – became a more cheerful (and especially well-fed) place.

Nick Colleluori, a young man who battled non-Hodgkin's lymphoma at the Abramson Cancer Center, created HEADstrong to raise awareness of the disease and help other cancer patients. Before he died in 2006, he made his family promise to bring his vision to fruition. A decade later, his family has more than kept its promise. The HEADstrong Foundation has raised over $9 million to help support more than 13,500 patients through grants for treatment expenses and for cancer research.

The annual Thanksgiving visit to HUP is a tribute to Nick, said his mother, Cheryl, who is president of the Foundation. “It was his favorite holiday,” she said. Colleluori family members and more than 30 HEADstrong volunteers set up banquet tables in each floor’s conference room and covered them with fall decorations and homemade cards that elementary school children created for patients.

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Snacks, Stories and Games: Putting the Fun Back in Summer

Sally Sapega — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 15:28:15 -0500

When Laura Carter, patient service associate for Penn Medicine Cherry Hill, worked in the trauma unit at Cooper Hospital, she saw many victims of violence. She vividly remembers one, a young man who had been shot eight times but, miraculously, recovered. “Before he was discharged, he told me that he’d get his life together this time. He said ‘I don’t want this to happen again.’” Months later, he returned to the ER, but this time no one could save his life. “I knew then that I wanted to help – give these kids a way to escape the violence in Camden,” she said. “I had to do something.”

Growing up in Philadelphia, she recalled enjoying free lunches and free recreation activities during the summer. “They don’t have that in Camden. Kids have nothing to do. A lot are in the houses by themselves.” That’s when she came up with Setfree Urban Outreach, a fun and safe way for underprivileged children in Camden to spend Saturdays during the summer. “I simple wrote down what I wanted to do and then I made it happen!” she said. She created and distributed flyers in several Camden neighborhoods but didn’t think many kids would show. That first summer 250 kids and parents came.

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Local Students Get a Glimpse of Working in Medicine

Sally Sapega — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 15:24:21 -0500

Last month, several middle school students from Quba Institute, an Islamic school in West Philadelphia, visited Rhoads 7 to learn about health-care careers. “Our goal was to expose students from underserved communities to career opportunities in medicine,” said Lily A. Arya, MD, of OB/GYN, who helped organize the visit. During a workshop held in the unit conference room, the students participated in hands-on activities (including suturing and hand washing) and spoke with nurses, residents, fellows and medical students about working in health care. In addition, Sakinah Wade, RNC MNN, BSN, of Women’s Health, made a presentation on multiculturalism.

Though students did not visit clinical areas because of infection control policies, “the principal of Quba Institute thought that the visit would have a deep and lasting impact on her students,” Arya said. “The enthusiasm of the young doctors and nursing staff who participated and their genuine pleasure in 'giving back' to the community was impressive!”

The visit also included a stop at Penn’s Biomedical Library where students learned how 3D printing is used in medical research and saw a specially designed tray to hold tiny zebrafish and models of a femur showing the spongy tissue.

Photo caption: Lily A. Arya, MD, shows students from the Quba Institute how to suture during their visit to Rhoads 7.

Above and Beyond Heroes

Sally Sapega — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 15:19:20 -0500

The Above and Beyond Award recognizes HUP employees who have a meaningful and positive impact on patients and colleagues by consistently acting with respect, leading by example, and inspiring others around them to emulate their impeccable professionalism in our work environment. Five HUP employees were chosen as award recipients for the Fall 2016 quarter:

Shaleeta Mills, CNA, on Silverstein 7, was the assigned CNA for a patient who required a 1:1 for suicide precautions and was also recently postpartum with an infant in the Intensive Care Nursery . The patient was feeling ready to give up breast pumping, was feeling depressed about her milk production and was very disheartened until she met Shaleeta who stepped in right at a crucial moment and gave her the inspiration she needed to not give up. She even took the time to create a pumping schedule for the patient.

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2016 Philadelphia Heart Walk – THANK YOU!

Sally Sapega — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 15:17:29 -0500

At this year’s #PhillyHeartWalk, Penn Medicine was the number one fundraising company and health system, with over $270,000 raised and over 1900 registered walkers. Not only did we beat both our overall fundraising goal and our walker recruitment goal for the 2016 Heart Walk, but the Penn team also raised more money and recruited more walkers than ever before. The HUP-CPUP team alone boasted more than 500 walkers and raised nearly $66,000!

The funds we all worked so hard to raise go directly into cardiovascular research and education – and Penn Medicine is awarded more research dollars than any other hospital or health system in the region.

Thank you for your support of the American Heart Association. It was wonderful to see so many employees, friends and family join our fight against heart disease and stroke.

Save the Date: The Philadelphia Antiques and Art Show

Sally Sapega — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 15:16:30 -0500

The 2017 Philadelphia Antiques and Art Show will be held on Friday, April 21, through Sunday, April 23. This year’s show will benefit Penn Medicine’s Department of Radiation and Oncology. The money raised will help support the department’s Quality of Life Program, which was created to improve its waiting areas, making patients’ first encounter on the journey of healing a transformative and holistic experience by providing a place of calm, community, optimism, inspiration, and support.

The Philadelphia Antiques and Art Show is an exciting opportunity to experience history through a world of extraordinary treasures. With more than 60 distinguished exhibitors presenting exceptional handcrafted items and art from the Colonial to the Mid-20th Century eras. Mark your calendars to see why the Philadelphia Show has been called one of the finest of its kind for over 50 years.

More details are available here.

Penn Travel Medical Insurance Free through International SOS

Sally Sapega — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 15:15:15 -0500

All Penn and UPHS employees traveling on Penn-affiliated trips abroad are members of International SOS (ISOS). This membership includes 24/7 medical and security consultation, hospital referrals, emergency evacuation assistance and travel medical insurance. In order to receive notification of ISOS membership, a summary of benefits and a link to download your ISOS member card, please register your roundtrip flight itinerary in Penn’s Global Activities Registry.

More information on International SOS and how to register your travel can be found on Penn’s International Travel Guidance or by contacting Jaime Molyneux, director of International Risk Management.

Digital Edition of System News - November 2016

Paul Foster — Thu, 01 Dec 2016 15:50:42 -0500

Click here for the digital edition of System News.

Spirituality and Medicine: Refocusing on an Ancient Connection

Sally Sapega — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 16:45:15 -0500

For hundreds of years, spirituality and religion played significant roles in medicine. Indeed, the church originally issued medical licenses to physicians, many of whom were monks or priests. The first hospitals were built by built by religious groups. But, with the advances in medicine and technology, religion and spirituality existed only on the periphery of medical practice.

In the last decades of the 20th century, the pendulum began to slowly swing back. Research in the field showed that not only were spirituality and religious beliefs important parts of many people’s lives, but they also had an impact on a person’s physical and mental health. “Medicine is inherently an emotional, psychological and existential experience,” said Horace DeLisser, MD, of Medicine. “Spirituality is a part of people’s identify. Understanding these beliefs helps to better care for patients and form relationships.”

A new Certificate in Spirituality and Health at Penn’s Perelman School of Medicine will teach students how to incorporate spirituality into their medical practice – and feel comfortable in that role.

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CEO Column

Sally Sapega — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 16:42:46 -0500

Penn Medicine staff, faculty and students engage with members of our community each day -- from care at the bedside to work with patient advocacy groups to administrative work that keeps operations for our patients and their families running smoothly. We’re proud that this spirit of help for our neighbors extends well beyond the work day for many Penn Medicine staff: For example, one staff member spends every Wednesday evening teaching adults to read and helping them get their GED. Another has helped over 400 uninsured women receive free breast cancer screening and diagnostic services. Others work with shelter programs to serve meals to homeless Philadelphia residents.

Individually, these efforts have a tremendous impact across our region. When we come together around a common cause, we make an even bigger imprint in efforts to improve our communities. Each year, the Penn’s Way campaign, a charitable giving program in which Penn Medicine joins forces with the University of Pennsylvania, demonstrates the power of our united commitment to helping others.

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Inside the Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy at Penn

Sally Sapega — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 16:36:59 -0500

Last month, Silicon Valley philanthropist and entrepreneur Sean Parker joined Penn scientists and leaders and patients who have participated in lifesaving clinical trials at the Abramson Cancer Center to mark the launch of Penn’s Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy. ABC News Chief Health & Medical Editor Dr. Richard Besser moderated the panel event, during which Parker shared his vision for the groundbreaking collaboration between Penn and five of the nation’s other top cancer centers. The Parker Institute was founded in April 2016, backed by a $250 million gift from the Parker Foundation, making it the largest single contribution ever made to the field of immunotherapy.

Philly Fights Cancer!

Sally Sapega — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 16:36:05 -0500

Over 1,300 people came together last month to take cancer down for the count at the Philly Fights Cancer Round 2! The celebration helped raise $5.4 million to support translational research and clinical trials at Penn Medicine's Abramson Cancer Center (ACC). Left: Physician honoree John Glick, MD, president of the Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, and Nancy Wolfson, Philly Fights Cancer chair.

Two Win PBJ Health Care Innovator Award

Sally Sapega — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 16:36:00 -0500

Mitesh Patel, MD, of General Internal Medicine, and Jason Moore, PhD, director of the Institute for Biomedical Informatics at Penn, received Health Care Innovator Awards from the Philadelphia Business Journal. Patel’s research focuses on studying innovative ways to change behaviors and improve health outcomes. Moore has developed cutting-edge computer research software to help biomedical researchers prioritize the vast array of data being generated.

Awards and Accolades

Sally Sapega — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 16:35:00 -0500

Ronald Fairman, MD, chief of Vascular Surgery, was elected president of the Society for Vascular Surgery, a not-for-profit professional medical society that seeks to advance excellence and innovation in vascular health through education, advocacy, research and public awareness.

Garret A. FitzGerald, MD, director of the Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, received a 2016 Presidential Distinguished Service Award for the Irish Abroad. The Award recognizes his research which “has contributed substantially to the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease by low dose aspirin and has benefitted millions worldwide.

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Perelman School of Medicine Launches Online 3D Anatomy Courses

Sally Sapega — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 16:34:00 -0500

Penn’s Perelman School of Medicine now offers online 3D anatomy courses to students worldwide. The courses have been developed in collaboration with Elsevier, a world-leading provider of scientific, technical and medical information products and services, and Sharecare Reality Lab, a digital health company that provides visual solutions for health care.

Penn’s anatomy faculty developed the course content using images from Elsevier’s benchmark Netter Atlas of Human Anatomy, Gray’s Anatomy for Students, Larson’s Human Embryology and Sharecare Reality Lab’s sophisticated digital 3D-anatomic simulations.

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LG Health Recognized for Reducing Opioids in Low-back Pain Treatment

Sally Sapega — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 16:33:00 -0500

Low-back pain is the leading cause of disability in the United States, accounting for nearly 15 million medical visits and $25 billion in healthcare spending annually. One major consequence of the condition, prescription opioid abuse, carries enormous societal burden. Lancaster General Health’s innovative, triple aim-focused approach to treating low-back pain has won the Hospital & Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania’s (HAP) Optimal Operations Award.

The HAP award recognizes LG Health’s “Transforming Care for Low-Back Pain: A New Population Health Model,” a three-year project to develop a systemwide standard of care that reduces opioid prescriptions, unnecessary invasive treatments and imaging services, as well as related costs.

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New State-of-the Art Center for Breast Imaging at PAH

Sally Sapega — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 16:31:00 -0500

Pennsylvania Hospital recently opened the Center for Breast Imaging, a state-of-the-art facility that will provide patients with access to the most advanced imaging services with the least radiation dose possible for an accurate diagnosis. The newly expanded suite makes way for new clinical research opportunities and innovative treatment options. Additional space, equipment, and staff also enhances our ability to streamline the patient experience — from registration, to imaging and if necessary, to biopsy.

“This carefully designed facility within the heart of the hospital allows us to offer exceptional care with same-day results and biopsies to more patients,” said Brian S. Englander, MD, chair of PAH Radiology.

“The new center and hard work that went into creating it — from conception to construction to completion — represents our ongoing commitment to put patients first at the nation’s first,” said CEO Theresa Larivee. “We are constantly striving to provide the best care and the latest technology for everyone who comes through our doors and the Center for Breast Imaging will do just that!”

Volpe Represents Penn Medicine Among Healthcare Leaders

Sally Sapega — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 16:31:00 -0500

Michele Volpe, CEO of Penn Presbyterian, represented Penn Medicine in a gathering of the region’s healthcare leaders to recognize and celebrate their organizations’ participation in the HealthShare Exchange of Southeastern Pennsylvania. HSX allows sharing of patient information for treatment purposes at the point of care.

CCH Outreach Ensures Healthy Snacks for Kids

Sally Sapega — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 16:30:00 -0500

Thanks to the generosity of employees at Chester County Hospital and a Penn Medicine CAREs grant, underprivileged children in their community will enjoy healthy snacks during the school year.

Human Resources and Organizational Development at CCH took the lead on the Snack Bag project. After posting flyers asking for donations of snacks, in flowed hundreds, including cheese crackers, pretzels, fruit bars, granola bars, raisins, fruit snacks, applesauce, fruit bowls and juice boxes. “Our employees are very generous when it comes to giving back to our community,” said Nancy Canfield, Benefits Coordinator at CCH.

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New Penn Medicine CAREs Grant Winners

Sally Sapega — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 16:29:00 -0500

Congratulations to the latest recipients of a Penn Medicine CAREs grant!

Catrena Drake CCA Project Well Balanced

Dasha Saintremy HUP Center of the Advocate

Victoria Wilson CPUP Saturday Enrichment Program

Michelle Ferrant PAH ICN Family Advisory Council: Electric Breast Pumps for Uninsured/Low Income Mothers

Arlene Brackett CPUP Basketball Court

Qunbin Xiong HUP Asian Senior Cares Center

Joan Wielgoszinski CCA Justine's Food Angels

Janet McMaster PPMC WEPAC (West Philadelphia Alliance for Children)

Bethany Thomas HUP Medical Alert Bracelets to Epilepsy Patients

Julie Yoon CPUP Alphacare Stork Bus Program

Ben Cocchiaro PSOM Streetside Health Project Electronic Record Implementation & Sustainability Initiative

Mathilda Lyons HUP Interfaith Food Cupboard

Penn Medicine Cherry Hill Celebrates Grand Opening

Sally Sapega — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 16:28:00 -0500

Penn Medicine Cherry Hill, a new 150,000 square foot outpatient facility, celebrated its opening last month at its location at 1865 Route 70 East in Cherry Hill, NJ. With 28 specialties and expanded radiology and laboratory offerings in one building, the new facility allows patients to see their primary care doctor or a specialist, receive lab work, radiology services, and even pick up their prescriptions, all in one location.

A Philadelphia Inquirer article referred to the facility as the new giant on the Route 70 “health care highway,” treating simple and complex cases requiring care from specialists in dermatology, neuroscience, musculoskeletal specialties and physical therapy, urology and male fertility, liver transplant, cardiovascular medicine, and more.

The location also allows South Jersey patients to receive a broad spectrum of adult cancer services -- including hematology, surgical and radiation oncology -- which cancer patients may need daily for several weeks at a time. Being part of Penn Medicine, patients at the new practice can coordinate with other locations for additional cancer treatment, such as proton beam therapy or cancer surgeries

"Someday you'll describe these locations as hospitals without beds,” said CEO Ralph Muller at the opening. “Here patients can receive chronic care in almost all modalities and specialties."

The Art of Grief: Transforming Loss into Legacy

Sally Sapega — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 16:25:57 -0500

Something extraordinary kept happening at Penn Wissahickon Hospice’s exhibition “The Art of Grief” at the Chestnut Hill Fall for the Arts Festival. People slowly took in the pairing of eight paintings and poems and, by the time they came to the end, they had tears in their eyes. When they met Tremain Smith, the artist who created the artwork and poetry in response to her mother’s death as part of the Hospice’s Bereavement Program, there was the long hug, followed by the sharing of loss stories. Finally, people expressed surprise that art was being used by the hospice to support people who suffered a loss.

But using art in this manner comes as no surprise to Jeffrey Barg, LCSW, administrator of the Bereavement Program. “The art of grief is learning to turn toward rather than away from painful thoughts and feelings. We help people do that with the creative arts such as music, painting, drawing, photography, poetry and prose,” he explained. “This helps them to stay connected with their deceased love ones in a positive way, to create a lasting legacy, and to learn how to tolerate painful thoughts and feelings, which otherwise might impede their adaptation to their loss.”

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Penn Medicine @ Work

Sally Sapega — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 16:25:00 -0500

Provider Star Ratings Connect with Consumers

Penn Medicine recognizes the importance of patient input when defining the patient experience. For years, we have collected patient satisfaction data to guide improvements in care delivery. This data has been used internally to measure both clinical and operational performance. Consumers today, however, are demanding greater access to this type of data to aid in making important health-care decisions. In response to this growing demand, on November 16, 2016, Penn Medicine is launching Patient Provider Satisfaction Ratings – a pioneering initiative in the Philadelphia region that will allow consumers to find ratings and reviews on Penn providers via pennmedicine.org.

In this age of technology and data, peer-to-peer review websites like Yelp and Angie’s List have empowered consumers to provide online reviews about goods and services, and, thus, share their recommendations to a large audience instantaneously. With the proven success of obtaining recommendations online, it is no surprise that consumers have turned to the Internet when choosing a physician or one hospital over another. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, 59% of consumers surveyed said online ratings are somewhat to very important in the decision-making process about their care providers. Many third-party review sites, however, allow unverified reviews and use unreliable sample sizes to obtain their data. Furthermore, because health-care is not their core business, the metrics these sites use to rate a provider are rudimentary. So who better than health-care experts themselves to engage the patient base with industry standard tools to produce accurate, reliable data?

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Tackling Clinical Engineering Here at Penn

Sally Sapega — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 16:24:39 -0500

The Penn Medicine family grew over the summer in a somewhat subtle, but very important way. Penn’s Information Services created a new department and a few dozen new positions to handle all of the organizations clinical engineering needs, needs that prior to June were being met by third party companies.

Penn’s new clinical engineering team now handles all of the organizations medical devices, more than 40,000 of them—everything from infusion pumps and ventilators to surgical robots and lasers. They take care of all device repair, keep track of any relevant recalls, and generally make sure that all devices are up to snuff. It’s a big job that Jim Beinlich, associate chief information officer for Entity Services, said was traditionally handled by third party companies as the devices come from different manufacturers and different vendors. It made sense to outsource that to someone else.

But a couple of years ago, when Penn Medicine leaders began to look at the contract that was set to end this past summer, Beinlich and team wondered if it still made sense for Penn. The devices are increasingly integrated with our electronic medical records, meaning they needed more personal attention and tailoring.

About 10 years ago, Information Services itself was outsourced, but leaders made the decision then to bring IS within Penn and Beinlich said that move improved quality and satisfaction. Why not do the same for clinical engineering?

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Penn Medicine Hospitals Reaccredited as Magnet for Nursing Excellence

Sally Sapega — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 16:22:58 -0500

Three Penn Medicine hospitals – HUP, Penn Presbyterian, and Lancaster General Health (LGH)-- have each achieved Magnet reaccreditation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center's (ANCC) Magnet Recognition Program®; this accreditation is the highest institutional honor awarded to hospitals to recognize excellence in nursing. All five Penn Medicine facilities, including Pennsylvania Hospital, and Chester County Hospital , have Magnet status.

Achieving Magnet accreditation is one of the highest professional nursing achievements a hospital can attain. Less than seven percent of hospitals in the Nation are Magnet designated. “This recognition reflects the tireless commitment by our interdisciplinary nursing teams to deliver exceptional care for patients and their families,” said Regina Cunningham, PhD, RN, senior VP and chief nursing executive for the Health System. “These efforts throughout Penn Medicine maintain our position at the forefront of nursing in clinical care, research, and professional practice.”

Digital Edition of What's New - 11/28/2016

Paul Foster — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 14:11:33 -0500

Click here for the digital edition of What's New.

35th Annual Zubrow Lecture Honors Katrina A. Armstrong, MD

Paul Foster — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 12:57:38 -0500

The Molly & Sidney Zubrow Lecture and Award Program is a longstanding Pennsylvania Hospital tradition that celebrates leaders in the health care field who carry on Sidney Zubrow, MD’s legacy of always working to improve patient care and broaden the horizons for everyone and anyone who works in health care.

“While Sidney and Molly Zubrow are no longer with us, their legacy of compassion, humanism, and dedication to providing the best care possible remains with us today,” said CEO Theresa Larivee. “Dr. Zubrow believed in always maintaining respectful and compassionate relationships among physicians, students, and every single member of the health care team, as well as the patients.”

This year’s 35^th annual Zubrow lecture honored former Penn Medicine faculty member, Katrina A. Armstrong, MD for her efforts to improve trust and communication in health care.

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PAH Heart Walk Team Raises more than $30,000

Paul Foster — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 12:40:36 -0500

Congratulations to everyone at PAH who helped make the 2016 Philadelphia Heart Walk a record-breaking success on Nov. 5! This year, our team captains led the charge for PAH to exceed its goals by raising more than $30,000 and registering 340 walkers. The 2016 Heart Walk boasts the highest PAH fundraising and walker participation to date.

As a health system, Penn Medicine raised more than $261,000, surpassing this year’s system-wide goal and breaking the record for the highest amount fundraised by a health system for the Philadelphia Heart Walk.

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Welcome Christine M. Tierney, Pennsylvania Hospital’s Chief Human Resources

Paul Foster — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 12:38:27 -0500

Pennsylvania Hospital is pleased to welcome Christine M. Tierney, RN, MSN, SPHR, CHCR, SHRM–SCP, as Pennsylvania Hospital’s Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO).

As an accomplished healthcare professional, Tierney previously served as director of Corporate Human Resources at Abington Health, where she acted as the senior human resources presence for two hospitals with more than 700 beds and 6,000 employees. Prior to her fifteen years in the Abington Health system and after spending two years as a Recruitment Manager at Reimbursement Technologies, Inc. Tierney started her career at the Albert Einstein Medical Center, first as a pediatric nurse before moving into administration in a nurse recruitment role which later evolved into a broader human resources position. Tierney received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Holy Family College and her Master of Science degree in Nursing Administration from Villanova University.

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Get Involved with the Patient and Family Advisory Council

Paul Foster — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 12:38:02 -0500

Earlier this year, Pennsylvania Hospital launched the Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC) to foster a culture of patient- and family-centered care. The PFAC includes past and present patients and family as well as PAH staff members.

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Annual Food Drive

Paul Foster — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 12:37:04 -0500

In the Delaware Valley alone, approximately 750,000 people struggle with food insecurity, and one out of every three children lives in poverty and may not know when they will receive their next meal.

To help end hunger our community, Pennsylvania Hospital is proud to hold its annual food drive to support Preston & Steve Campout for Hunger, the annual, week-long food collection fundraiser from 93.3 FM WMMR Rocks morning show hosts Preston Elliot and Steve Morrison. Donations will also help support families and patients of Hall Mercer.

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Holiday Outreach?

Paul Foster — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 12:34:48 -0500

Is your department or area planning to do some holiday outreach in the community? We'd love to share the story of your efforts to brighten this season for others. Please send information about your outreach and photos to Johanna.harvey@uphs.upenn.edu.

Thank you!

Save the Date - The Philadelphia Antiques and Art Show

Paul Foster — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 12:33:57 -0500

April 21 - April 23, 2017

This year’s show will benefit Penn Medicine’s department of Radiation Oncology. The money raised will help support the department’s Quality of Life Program, designed to improve the overall wellbeing of patients and caregivers within the department’s waiting areas, making patients’ first encounter on the journey of healing a transformative and holistic experience by providing a place of calm, community, optimism, inspiration, and support.

The Philadelphia Antiques and Art Show is an exciting opportunity to experience history through a world of extraordinary treasures. With more than 60 distinguished exhibitors presenting exceptional handcrafted items and art from the Colonial to the Mid-20th Century eras. Mark your calendars to see why the Philadelphia Show has been called one of the finest of its kind for over 50 years.

More details are available at www.philadelphiaantiquesandartshow.com.

Digital Edition of Presby Bulletin - 11/23/2016

Paul Foster — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 12:09:41 -0500

Click here for the digital edition of the Presby Bulletin.

Digital Edition of HUPdate - 11/23/2016

Paul Foster — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 12:01:49 -0500

Click here for the digital edition of HUPdate.

PPMC Takes 1st in HAP Donate Life Campaign

Paul Foster — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 11:43:41 -0500

The results are in: Penn Presbyterian Medical Center won “Top Hospital” in the Hospital Association of Pennsylvania’s Donate Life challenge (HAP) to raise awareness about organ and tissue donation. The University of Pennsylvania Health System won top overall health system and HUP finished right behind Presby in the hospital category.

The annual competition encourages health care organizations to get the word out about organ and tissue donation by offering points to participants for various tasks. Each hospital recorded evidence of activities completed on a score card during the campaign and submitted it to the HAP Donate Life judges who then verified the evidence submitted and then selected the winners.

Susan Chodoff, director of Regulatory Affairs and Accreditation Matters at PPMC and one of the organizers of this year’s Donate Life campaign, said all of PPMC stepped up to the plate when asked. Managers of departments across the hospital built enthusiasm to get their teams involved in raising awareness and helping tally up the points needed to clinch the victory for PPMC. Gift of Life’s Amy Martiner was especially helpful at amplifying all of their ideas and initiatives, Chodoff added.

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Penn Medicine Raises $1.55 Million for Local Charities

Paul Foster — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 11:41:25 -0500

We made it! The 2017 Penn’s Way Campaign officially drew to a close last week. Thank you to everyone who donated or participated in the campaign this year. This effort is a truly remarkable team endeavor that has the power to change the lives of many people in need in our community.

We have officially exceeded our Penn/Penn Medicine $1.55 million goal, having raised $1,651,442. We’re still receiving last minute donations, so the final number promises to be even higher.

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American Red Cross Blood Drive

Paul Foster — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 11:40:25 -0500

An American Red Cross team will be available to take blood donations on Friday, Dec. 16, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. in the Rotunda Medical Conference Room on the first floor.

Those interested in donating blood can pre-register and make their appointment by visiting RedCrossBlood.org and entering the sponsor keyword “PennPresbyterian.”

Prospective donors are asked to bring identification and to drink plenty of water beforehand.

HUP Celebrates Patient Advocate Award Winners!

Sally Sapega — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 10:45:55 -0500

“Talented, innovative, bringing excellence to everything they do. Trusted, respected, valued. Welcoming and comforting”

These were just some of the glowing adjectives Carolyn Jackson, COO, read in the narratives describing this year’s winners of the HUP Patient Advocacy Recognition Awards. “And the word ‘always,’” she added. “These are things they do every day. It is in the fabric of who they are.”

This year’s winners reflect HUP at its best. They consistently succeed at making the patient experience a great one. And it’s making a difference. “With your help, patient satisfaction is at all-time record highs,” said Garry Scheib, CEO of the hospital, at this year’s Recognition Ceremony. “Our quality and patient outcomes are improving every year, thanks to team efforts led by our awardees.”

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Strike Heroism

Sally Sapega — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 10:39:31 -0500

The weeklong SEPTA transit workers' union strike earlier this month threw a wrench into the lives of thousands of daily commuters. Many discovered the “joys” of early morning walks to work. Others turned to coworkers – or neighbors or friends – to drive in together. HUP employees did whatever was needed to get to the hospital to care for patients and make sure the daily operations continued uninterrupted. Below are just a few examples of the efforts staff took to make it to and from work.

Food and Nutrition Services employee Donte Cooks walked from 41st and Girard every day he was scheduled to work and helped out over the weekend when he was scheduled off. Sandra Williams, a friendly face at Au Bon Pain, walked from 53rd St – over two miles – to be at HUP for her 5am shift. And Dave Johnson walked over two and a half hours on his daily trek to HUP, which included picking up his kids and then dropping them off at school!

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Honoring Our Veterans of Care

Sally Sapega — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 10:33:48 -0500

Penn Medicine honored and thanked the more than 300 dedicated men and women who have served our nation — and are now part of the extended family of Penn Medicine. William Schwab, MD, of Surgery; Carrie Sims, MD, of Surgery; Jeremy Cannon, MD of Trauma; and Michael Duncan, president and CEO of Chester County Hospital all spoke of their experiences in the military and its impact on their lives. “The experience lives with you quietly forever,” Schwab said.

“What I saw in Iraq changed my life,” Cannon said.

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Bringing Back The “Good Catch!” Program

Sally Sapega — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 10:32:23 -0500

The Good Catch program was created to improve patient safety by publicly recognizing outpatient staff who proactively identify potential process issues, report them in Penn Medicine Safety Net, help resolve the issues, and share the lessons learned across the organization.

Help us recognize those who promote a culture of safety and prevent harm to patients. Click here to learn more about the Good Catch program and nominate a person or team.

The Good Catch Committee will evaluate all submissions and present awards on a quarterly basis, beginning in December 2016. Click here for additional questions.

Parents and Teens Learn the Way to Safety

Sally Sapega — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 10:27:11 -0500

Distracted driving is responsible for more than 3,000 deaths and over 400,000 injuries per year. We all know it’s dangerous but how many of us have been that person drifting into the other lane because we were doing something else when we should have had our attention focused squarely on the road?

“Today, there are twice as many drivers actively using handheld electronic devices while driving as there were five years ago. Not surprisingly, crashes directly related to cellphone use while driving increased by 38 percent during same time period. This is not about increasing awareness of the risks – everyone already knows it’s dangerous,” said M. Kit Delgado, MD, MS, of Emergency Medicine and Epidemiology.

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Come Hear the Sounds of Music

Sally Sapega — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 10:25:21 -0500

Plan to attend the first concert of the Penn Medicine Symphony Orchestra, comprising members of HUP’s staff as well as students from the Perelman School of Medicine. The concert will feature Mozart’s overture to The Marriage of Figaro, Rossini’s overture to The Barber of Seville, and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5. It will take place on Sunday, December 11, at 2 pm in Irvine Auditorium. Admission is free and it's open to the public.

Holiday Outreach?

Sally Sapega — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 10:24:15 -0500

Is your department or area planning to do some holiday outreach in the community? We'd love to share the story of your efforts to brighten this season for others. Please email information about the outreach and photos to the editor.

Thank you!

Digital Edition of Presby Bulletin - 11/11/2016

Paul Foster — Fri, 11 Nov 2016 13:05:53 -0500

Click here for the digital edition of Presby Bulletin.

Digital Edition of HUPdate - 11/11/2016

Paul Foster — Fri, 11 Nov 2016 12:50:15 -0500

Click here for the digital edition of HUPdate.

Digital Edition of What's New - 11/11/2016

Paul Foster — Fri, 11 Nov 2016 12:44:29 -0500

Click here for the digital edition of What's New.

Pennsy Pride at the 2016 Magnet Conference

Paul Foster — Fri, 11 Nov 2016 12:23:50 -0500

Nurses from Pennsylvania Hospital joined colleagues from across the country for the 2016 American Nurses Credentialing Center National Magnet Conference, which took place in Orlando, Florida in October. During the conference, PAH was recognized as a first-time Magnet Organization.

The Magnet Conference is the largest nursing conference in the United States, bringing together more than 9,000 health care professionals in order to share proven best practices and invigorate nursing programs to transform health care. At the annual conference, the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) honors newly designated and re-designated Magnet facilities. At this year’s conference, 25 team members from Pennsylvania Hospital representing many different departments and areas of practice attended the ceremony as PAH was recognized for its initial designation.

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2016 Patient Advocacy Awards

Paul Foster — Fri, 11 Nov 2016 12:22:51 -0500

On Thursday, October 13, Pennsylvania Hospital’s office of Patient Affairs and Patient and Guest Relations celebrated its eighth annual Patient Advocacy Awards.

The Patient Advocacy Awards honor Pennsylvania Hospital team members that partner with the office of Patient and Guest Relations to enhance the patient experience. This program serves as a mechanism to recognize individuals that model patient-centered practices. The awardees were from many different disciplines and departments and have each made an impact on the patient experience by advocating for patients and keeping patients at the center of their care.

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Welcome David Ain, MD

Paul Foster — Fri, 11 Nov 2016 12:21:39 -0500

Pennsylvania Hospital is pleased to welcome David Ain, MD, to the Penn Medicine Heart and Vascular Services team. Ain specializes in interventional cardiology, vascular medicine, and endovascular intervention. His clinical interests include coronary and peripheral artery disease, carotid stenosis, renovascular hypertension, fibromuscular dysplasia, aneurysms, arterial dissections, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism.

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Paws for Pennsy

Paul Foster — Fri, 11 Nov 2016 12:20:56 -0500

PAH’s Care 4 the Care Providers hosted another successful Paws for Pennsy adoption fair during October’s Penn Medicine Experience week. The team raised more than $900 to support the Morris Animal Refuge and The Gloucester County Animal Shelter while also giving employees the chance to reduce stress by spending time with animals up for adoption in our community.

If you think you might be interested in adopting a pet, we encourage you to visit Morris Animal Refuge’s website to learn more.

Honoring Our Veterans

Paul Foster — Fri, 11 Nov 2016 12:20:21 -0500

U.S. military veterans - including those who work here at Penn Medicine - come from all walks of life and all backgrounds, and through their service, they have made an enormous contribution to our nation. On this Veterans Day, we encourage you to take some time today to thank your colleagues, community members, and patients who have served our country, from the greatest generation of WWII vets to those who have served in support of more recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan and humanitarian crises at home and abroad.

November is Diabetes Awareness Month

Paul Foster — Fri, 11 Nov 2016 12:20:03 -0500

Diabetes is a unique disease that affects more than 29 million Americans and their families. Throughout November, the team from the Diabetes Education Center at Pennsylvania Hospital will be working to raise awareness about Diabetes and ways to treat and prevent it.

The Diabetes Education Center at Pennsylvania Hospital provides superior individualized care for inpatients and outpatients using a multidisciplinary approach to provide the best treatment options. The diabetes care team includes primary care doctors, endocrinologists, ophthalmologists, nutritionists, podiatrists, social workers, and physical medicine therapists. Pennsylvania Hospital also offers a wide range of educational programs to assist with disease management.

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5K for IOA Raises Nearly $35,000

Paul Foster — Fri, 11 Nov 2016 12:19:38 -0500

In September, nearly 500 runners, walkers, and spectators turned up bright and early for the annual 5K for the IOA and Memory Walk. The 3.1-mile race took runners through Penn Park while others – including many four-legged friends -- enjoyed a one-mile walk through the University campus.

Each year, the event brings together hundreds of people for one universal cause: to support Alzheimer’s and aging-related research at Penn’s Institute on Aging (IOA).

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Get Your Flu Shot: Now through Nov. 23

Paul Foster — Fri, 11 Nov 2016 12:18:43 -0500

Flu season is upon us and PAH is now offering the flu vaccine for all employees. The inactivated influenza vaccine (injectable) will be administered to PAH employees now through Nov. 23 with free clinics available every week. Penn Medicine requires that all staff have an annual influenza vaccination or possess an approved qualified exception. If vaccinated outside of PAH, a proof of immunization must be provided to receive credit for the vaccination.

You can view the vaccination clinic schedule and learn more at: http://uphsxnet.uphs.upenn.edu/occupationalmedicine/

PPMC Remains a Magnet for Excellence!

Paul Foster — Fri, 11 Nov 2016 12:08:07 -0500

For the second consecutive term, Penn Presbyterian has earned Magnet recognition from the American Nurses Credentialing Center, a designation that puts them in the top tier of healthcare facilities around the world.

The news was announced Oct. 18 during a conference call to a standing-room-only auditorium in Presby’s Philadelphia Heart Institute. On the phone was Donna Havens, PhD, RN, FAAN, the Commission Chair for ANCC. She announced that the commission had voted unanimously that Penn Presbyterian Medical Center had earned Magnet status for the second time in a row.

With the announcement, the audience burst into lengthy applause with high fives and hugs all around. Havens offered her own congratulations and walked the crowd through areas in which Presby was found to excel, including high marks in nurse satisfaction and working to prevent blood clots.

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PPMC Welcomes Delegation from Chongqing, China

Paul Foster — Fri, 11 Nov 2016 12:07:31 -0500

Penn Presbyterian Medical Center played host recently to a delegation of Chinese health professionals interesting in learning more about how Presby provides superior care to patients every day.

The six-member group hailed from the Chongqing municipality in southwest China and was led by Fang Mingjin, the deputy director of the Chongqing Municipal Health and Family Planning Commission.

Bob Russell, associate executive director of Operations at Penn Presbyterian, met with the group and mapped out various aspects of daily life at PPMC, from the hospital’s different service lines, to organization of leadership and management structure, how critical care patients arrive via helipad, staffing ratios and models and much more.

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Donate New Winter Gear at PPMC!

Paul Foster — Fri, 11 Nov 2016 12:06:54 -0500

Penn Presbyterian Medical Center is once again teaming up with Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown for the 16th Annual Warmth In Winter Drive.

The drive will run from Nov. 1 until Dec. 5 and drop boxes are located in the Cupp and Wright-Saunders lobbies. Please donate new hats, scarves, mittens and gloves for Philadelphia’s Homeless and Low Income Children.

Thank you for your participation and for giving back to your community!

Get Your Flu Shot: Now through Nov. 23

Paul Foster — Fri, 11 Nov 2016 12:06:31 -0500

Flu season is upon us and Penn Presbyterian is offering the flu vaccine for all employees. The inactivated influenza vaccine (injectable) will be administered to PPMC employees now through Nov. 23. Penn Medicine requires that all staff have an annual influenza vaccination or possess an approved qualified exception. If vaccinated outside of Penn, a proof of immunization must be provided to receive credit for the vaccination.

You can view the vaccination clinic schedule and learn more at: http://uphsxnet.uphs.upenn.edu/occupationalmedicine/

A Helping Hand … and Much More

Sally Sapega — Thu, 10 Nov 2016 11:06:35 -0500

Nurses are responsible for direct patient care on a unit – but a bevy of supplies and equipment help them to ensure the very best outcomes for patients. This is where support associates come in, serving as an “extra set of hands” on busy patient care units. Their work includes stocking supplies, but reaches far beyond that behind-the-scenes task. They’re each an integral part of the unit’s clinical team, supporting patient care on many levels.

“Everything you do helps us deliver quality care on the unit,” said Regina Cunningham, PhD, RN, SVP and chief nursing executive for UPHS, at this year’s Support Associate Recognition Day.

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PM Experience Week: Thank You For All You Do!

Sally Sapega — Thu, 10 Nov 2016 10:51:17 -0500

Every day staff work hard to deliver high-quality patient care. During last month’s Penn Medicine Experience Week, HUP showed its appreciation, going all out to celebrate its employees. “Everyone contributes to the patient experience,” said Tonita Chapman, director of HUP Admissions. “We really are changing lives … even by just smiling at a patient.”

The celebration started on Monday morning with leaders handing out “Changing Lives” candy bars to employees arriving for work and ended on another sweet note on Friday, with an ice cream social. Leaders -- wearing “soda jerk hats”-- scooped out ice cream to more than 800 employees, staff and residents! The week also included aromatherapy hand massages, fitness/wellness tips, and Donate Life organ registration. And employees received “Changing Lives” blankets.

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Books Through Bars: Educating and Raising Awareness

Sally Sapega — Thu, 10 Nov 2016 10:37:56 -0500

Books Through Bars helps a population that society rarely thinks about – those who are incarcerated. Each week the organization distributes hundreds of free books and educational materials to prisoners in Pennsylvania and several surrounding states. Last year alone, Books Through Bars mailed over 24,000 books. It also works hard to raise awareness and a better understanding of this population.

“These individuals want to pursue opportunities to improve their life,” said Greg Richter, a senior medical communications officer who has volunteered for the organization for the past two and a half years. “It’s good for the individuals and it’s good for all of society.”

Richter explained that Books Through Bars sends books in response to letters from prisoners. “Some request specific titles while others write about topics they like,” he said. Generally, each prisoner receives from two to five books. Richter also donates brown paper bags from supermarkets, which are used to wrap the books. To save even more money, they’re shipped at bookseller rates.

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Horton Receives Case Management Award

Sally Sapega — Thu, 10 Nov 2016 10:35:18 -0500

Congratulations to Crystal Horton, RN, BSN, Clinical Resource coordinator of Clinical Resource Management & Social Work who received the department’s first annual Nurse Case Management Service Excellence Award.

According to coworkers on Rhoads 4, Horton is a staunch and proactive patient advocate. She has coordinated free transcontinental air ambulance transportation to reunite a patient with her family and was able to secure rent control for a disabled patient by petitioning the Philadelphia Housing Authority.

“Her knowledge of discharge planning and utilization reviews is exemplary. She is an excellent teacher and a resource for all case managers.… She has an infectious energy,” said one person

Added another, “Her overall experience, knowledge, and commitment demonstrate the highest internal standards and devotion to hard work so valued among nurses in the case management profession.”

What's Up at HUP?

Sally Sapega — Thu, 10 Nov 2016 10:32:13 -0500

Do you have an annual Thanksgiving Day tradition?

Helena Conn of General Medicine

When my nephews were little, after dinner when they were bored, I’d take them to the local Wawa and 7-11 to buy bags of junk and slurpies. Now they’re in their 30s and we all jump in the car and still do it!

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2016 Employee Flu Campaign Ending Soon!

Sally Sapega — Thu, 10 Nov 2016 10:28:40 -0500

Over the past seven years, more than 98 percent of HUP and UPHS employees have been vaccinated for seasonal influenza. Getting the flu vaccine reduces the risk of illness for our staff and helps keep our patients, colleagues, and families safe and healthy. Penn Medicine has been recognized by the State of Pennsylvania for this key patient safety initiative. The 2016 Penn Medicine Employee Flu Campaign is an opportunity to continue our achievements. All staff must be vaccinated by November 23, 2016.

Vaccine for staff and attending physicians is still available from designated nurses in most inpatient units and many practices. In addition, flu vaccine is available 7:30 am to 5 pm from Occupational Health nurses on Ravdin 2. To ensure minimal waiting times and rapid documentation, bring your bar-coded Influenza Vaccine consent form, available on the UPHS Homepage link. Egg-free vaccine is available for egg-allergic employees. High dose vaccine is available for staff 65 and older. If you choose to be vaccinated outside UPHS this year, please send your documentation to HUP Occupational Medicine with a copy of your bar-coded form to make sure you get timely credit. Documentation of outside vaccines can also be emailed as a PDF.