St. Charles, OHSU seek participants for PATHFINDER 2 early cancer detection study 

A partnership between St. Charles and the Oregon Health & Science University’s Knight Cancer Institute aims to find 6,000 Oregonians who will choose a chance at early cancer detection by enrolling in the PATHFINDER 2 study, happening now across our state. The study’s goal is to improve early cancer detection and, ultimately, save lives. 

The PATHFINDER 2 study is not a treatment study. The purpose of this study is to understand the performance and safety of a blood test for early detection of a signal shared by multiple cancers. It is a follow up to the initial PATHFINDER 1 study on a broader scale, including people from diverse and underrepresented populations. This is an opportunity for rural Oregonians to be part of the development of cancer detection strategies. 

The test is being studied and is not approved or cleared by the Food and Drug Administration. It is not meant to replace cancer screening tests your health care provider may recommend, such as colonoscopy or mammography. 

The OHSU Knight Cancer institute was selected as one of 32 sites nationally for the study, and OHSU has partnered with hospitals and health systems in Coos Bay, Hood River, The Dalles, Salem and Central Oregon in an effort to reach people outside the Portland area. 

The Pathfinder 2 study is open to those who: 

• Are 50 or older and 
• Have never been diagnosed with cancer or 
• Have been cancer-free at least three years. 

Participants will be asked to give a blood sample drawn by a trained practitioner, provide medical history and complete some questionnaires. More information is here. Participants who enroll in the study will receive the test at no cost. 

“People don’t like having their blood drawn or thinking about cancer impacting their lives, and we understand that,” said Cindy Shuman, the clinical research coordinator who is overseeing the study for St. Charles. “But too often, cancer isn’t found until it’s advanced and harder to treat, and that’s why studies like this are important – so we can improve early detection. At the same time, participants will feel more informed about their own health and will enjoy the peace of mind that comes with that.” 

You can learn more about enrolling through St. Charles by contacting

OHSU Pathfinder Study
(503) 418-8150
[email protected]

St. Charles Research
541-706-2909
[email protected]

About St. Charles Health System

St. Charles Health System, Inc., headquartered in Bend, Ore., owns and operates St. Charles Bend, Madras, Prineville and Redmond. It also owns family care clinics in Bend, Madras, Prineville, Redmond, La Pine and Sisters. St. Charles is a private, not-for-profit Oregon corporation and is the largest employer in Central Oregon with more than 4,500 caregivers. In addition, there are more than 350 active medical staff members and nearly 200 visiting medical staff members who partner with the health system to provide a wide range of care and service to our communities.

Grand Rounds - Apr. 14, 2023
"Latest Evidence for Best Practices in Sports Concussion Management"

Speaker: Stanley A. Herring, MD. Clinical Professor, Departments of Rehabilitation Medicine, Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine and Neurological Surgery, University of Washington; Co-Founder and Senior Medical Advisor , The Sports Institute at UW Medicine; Co-Medical Director, UW Medicine Sports Concussion Program; Zackery Lystedt Sports Concussion Endowed Chair, Team Physician, Seattle Mariners and Seattle Seahawks(former)Seattle, Washington.

Objectives

1. Review the importance of an emergency medical action plan including provisions for care of suspected sports related concussion.
2. Discuss components of on the field care for a suspected sports related concussion.
3. Understand the treatment approach to athletes with persisting symptoms after sports related concussions.

Accreditation: St. Charles Health System is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians. St. Charles Health System designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)^TM.

The period to claim credit for this activity expires one year after its original publication. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Claim Credit

Target Audience: Physicians, Nurses, Pharmacists, Allied Health Professionals

Accessibility/Program Questions: St. Charles Health System encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact Continuing Medical Education at [email protected].

Oher CME or Clerkship questions: also contact Continuing Medical Education at [email protected].

Medical Staff Services

The Medical Staff Services (MSS) department of St. Charles Health System is comprised of professionals who serve as experts in matters of credentialing, privileging, and medical staff governance within the healthcare community. This foundation is the basis upon which safe and quality health care can be assured for patients.

Contact Us

• Leslie Foltz, Medical Staff Department Manager – 541-706-2784 [email protected]
• Nicki Gleich, Medical Affairs Department Coordinator – 541-706-6315 [email protected]
• Aaron Pratt, Medical Staff Coordinator (Bend) – 541-706-6724 [email protected]
• Kathryn Schuh Markwardt, Medical Staff Coordinator (Madras) - 541-460-4200 [email protected]
• Amanda Kisman, Medical Staff Coordinator (Prineville) - 541-526-6618 [email protected]
• Tanya Madsen McMahon, Medical Staff Coordinator (Bend) - 541-706-6237 [email protected]
• Simon Perez, Medical Staff Coordinator - 541-706-6980 [email protected]

For general inquiries and questions regarding changes to your current status or privileges please contact the Medical Staff Team at [email protected].

• Jennifer Vernon, Medical Staff Services Director - 541-706-7783 [email protected]
• Erin Lee, Credentialing Coordinator – 541-706-7744 [email protected]
• Heather Dooley, Credentialing Coordinator – 541-706-4065 [email protected]
• Susan Thomas-Reed, Credentialing Coordinator – 541-706-7766 [email protected]

For initial applications, reappointments and other credentialing question please contact the Credentialing Team at [email protected].

Spring Vegetable Risotto

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup chopped asparagus
• 1 cup chopped peas
• 1 cup chopped spinach
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until translucent.
• Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and stir to coat it with the oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
• Add the vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring frequently until each cup is absorbed before adding the next.
• After about 15-20 minutes, when the rice is almost cooked, add the chopped asparagus, peas, and spinach to the skillet. Stir to combine.
• Cook for another 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the rice is fully cooked.
• Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Note: You can also add other healthy items such as artichokes, fava beans or leeks, depending on your preference.

Grand Rounds - Apr. 7, 2023
"Update on the Fentanyl Crisis and the New Drug Screening Law"

Speaker: Michael D. Levine, MD, FACEP, FACMT. University of California, Los Angeles.

Objectives

1. Identify findings consistent with opioid toxicity.
2. Understand options for treatment of opioid toxicity.
3. Review options for medication-assisted therapy.
4. .

Accreditation: St. Charles Health System is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians. St. Charles Health System designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)^TM.

The period to claim credit for this activity expires one year after its original publication. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Claim Credit

Target Audience: Physicians, Nurses, Pharmacists, Allied Health Professionals

Accessibility/Program Questions: St. Charles Health System encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact Continuing Medical Education at [email protected].

Oher CME or Clerkship questions: also contact Continuing Medical Education at [email protected].

Welcome

More than a century ago, the founders of St. Charles promised Central Oregon that this organization would care for all people, or it would care for none. Working to be a health system that is diverse, equitable, inclusive and accepting is our responsibility toward upholding that commitment to care for all.

IDEA (Inclusion Diversity Equity Acceptance) Council

St. Charles Health System has a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. The Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Acceptance (IDEA) Council at St. Charles started as a grass-roots effort and has been in existence since 2017. The council was developed in response to a need for more diversity efforts within our health system. Since that time, the IDEA Council has identified diversity needs and has actively worked to provide more equitable, inclusive and diverse environments for all. The council implements actionable and measurable initiatives to address equity across our health system. The IDEA Core Council is comprised of caregivers, leaders, physicians and providers throughout our health system. The IDEA Council is supported by the three co-chairs, the manager of Caregiver Inclusion and Experience, executive leadership and our Chief Human Resources Officer as an avid supporter and sponsor. The council provides all staff the opportunity for ongoing training and dialogue at monthly General Council meetings, which are open to all within our system.

“St. Charles Health System consciously supports individuals from diverse backgrounds, viewpoints, race, abilities, gender and more to create a thriving work environment. We believe that a diverse work environment strengthens services to our community by providing unique and wide-ranging skills, compassion and knowledge. One of the exciting points in our journey at St. Charles has been our dedication to incremental growth toward advancing diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.”

 

- Dr. Shilo Tippett, Behavioral Health Consultant, Nationally Certified Diversity Professional, Member of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, Wasco/Tlingit Tribes

Our Journey Forward

In addition to our major growth and successes, we are excited by the many opportunities we have in front of us to continue to elevate diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging in our health system as well as the communities we serve. We will continue to evaluate, influence, and sometimes disrupt the status quo as we seek to create environments where all people are treated with cultural humility and respect. Our goal is to create a welcoming, loving and safe place for all.

After retiring from an executive job, Andrew and his wife moved to Central Oregon to enjoy the outdoor lifestyle. He has a wide range of interests, including snowboarding, creating handmade knives, fly fishing, bow hunting, pickleball, golf, and cooking. However, while on vacation on the East Coast, he suffered a serious injury while playing pickleball and needed surgery to repair his broken ulna and radius bones.

It was unsettling for him to think he may not be able to have full use of his right arm again. Instead of going to Boston for the procedure, Andrew decided to fly back home immediately with his arm in a cast and make an appointment at The Center. He saw Dr. Healy, who was able to perform surgery the following day. Andrew was impressed with Dr. Healy's expertise and quick action, which helped him get back on the road to recovery.

After the surgery, Andrew diligently followed Dr. Healy's advice and his physical therapist's exercises and stretches to ensure a successful recovery. Today, Andrew is back to enjoying all his favorite activities, thanks to the excellent care he received at The Center.

Signs of Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the nervous system. The symptoms of Parkinson's disease usually develop gradually over time, and they may vary from person to person. Some of the most common signs of Parkinson's disease include:

1. Tremors: Tremors or shaking are often the first symptom of Parkinson's disease. The tremors usually start in one hand or arm and may spread to the other side of the body over time.

2. Bradykinesia: Bradykinesia is a slowness of movement that can affect a person's ability to perform simple tasks, such as buttoning a shirt or tying shoelaces.

3. Rigidity: Rigidity or stiffness in the limbs and trunk is another common symptom of Parkinson's disease. This stiffness can make movement difficult and may cause pain or discomfort.

4. Postural instability: Parkinson's disease can also affect a person's balance and coordination, making them more prone to falls.

5. Changes in speech: Parkinson's disease can cause changes in a person's voice, such as speaking softly or with a monotone voice.

6. Changes in handwriting: Parkinson's disease can cause a person's handwriting to become small and cramped, making it difficult to read.

7. Loss of smell: Some people with Parkinson's disease may experience a loss of smell, which can affect their ability to enjoy food.

It's important to note that not everyone with Parkinson's disease will experience all of these symptoms, and some people may experience additional symptoms not listed here. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to speak with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

How do they test for Parkinson's Disease?

The diagnosis of Parkinson's disease is typically based on a combination of a person's medical history, physical examination, and neurological tests. There is no single test that can definitively diagnose Parkinson's disease, but doctors use a range of tests to evaluate a person's symptoms and rule out other possible conditions. Some of the common tests used to diagnose Parkinson's disease include:

1. A neurological exam involves assessing a person's motor function, reflexes, and coordination to look for signs of Parkinson's disease. The exam may also involve testing a person's sense of smell, vision, and cognition.

2. DaTscan is a type of brain imaging test that can help distinguish Parkinson's disease from other conditions that can cause similar symptoms. The test uses a small amount of radioactive material to show the activity of dopamine transporters in the brain.

3. Blood tests can help rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to Parkinson's disease, such as thyroid dysfunction.

4. Imaging tests like MRI or CT scans can help rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to Parkinson's disease.

5. A trial of Parkinson's medication can be helpful in confirming the diagnosis of Parkinson's disease. If a person's symptoms improve with Parkinson's medication, it may suggest that they have Parkinson's disease.

It's important to note that Parkinson's disease is a complex condition, and diagnosing it can be challenging. A neurologist or movement disorder specialist can provide a proper diagnosis and work with a person to develop an appropriate treatment plan.

The COVID-19 pandemic today is much different than it was in the spring of 2020, when St. Charles implemented a universal masking policy to decrease the risk of spread of the disease between caregivers, patients and visitors in our health care facilities. Over these past three years, the virus has evolved to cause less severe disease due to changes in the virus itself along with widespread population immunity and the availability of medications to reduce the risk of severe disease in those who are at high risk for developing severe disease.

As a result of these changes, and in alignment with the changing requirements of the Oregon Health Authority and Oregon’s Office of Occupational Safety and Health Administration, St. Charles will no longer require people to wear masks in public areas of the health system’s facilities beginning Monday, April 3. Masks will remain strongly recommended in our facilities as protection for the wearer and others. They will be required for people experiencing symptoms of a respiratory virus such as coughing and fever.

Also starting Monday, April 3, St. Charles will no longer require its caregivers to mask in most clinical settings. Caregivers will continue to be required to wear a mask in certain scenarios, including a request by a patient or if community transmission levels are high.

“Over the past three years, our caregivers have diligently worn masks in a selfless effort to keep themselves, other employees, and our patients safe. We are grateful to them for their care and their sacrifice, and we know the community is, too,” said St. Charles’ Chief Clinical Officer, Dr. Mark Hallett. “With OHA and Oregon-OSHA lifting their mask requirements, our team of experts has carefully considered the facts and feels comfortable that this is a safe step forward for our caregivers, patients and community.”

It is important to note that the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID infections continues to be a risk to the most vulnerable people in our communities. While transmission levels are currently lower than what they have been in the recent past, as future case levels may rise, so too will the risk of transmission to vulnerable patients and masking may be required during future outbreaks of COVID-19.

In the first quarter of 2023, I’ve been thinking a lot about numbers – though not always the numbers you might expect.

We’ve spent a lot of time over the past few years talking about them: Numbers of COVID patients in our hospitals. Numbers of vaccinations given. Numbers that make up our operating margin, revenues, expenses and costs of travel labor.

These are all important, no doubt about it.

But I have been reflecting on some different numbers that I believe better depict St. Charles’ impact on Central Oregon and illustrate our mission in action.

To provide the care our communities need, it takes more than 4,500 caregivers working side-by-side on the frontlines and behind the scenes. While I can’t possibly list all contributions from every department, I wanted to share a few that stand out.

In 2022 ...  

• We provided almost 100,000 patient visits in our Emergency Departments at all four hospitals – that’s a new patient every 13 minutes
• We provided more than 80,000 respiratory therapy procedures – a 70% increase from two years ago
• Our ambulatory clinics welcomed nearly 440,000 visits by people seeking care across a wide variety of specialties
• Our Food Services teams served more than 1 million meals across all campuses. That equates to a line of cafeteria trays side-by-side stretching from Redmond to Portland and back again
• We activated the trauma team nearly 1,000 times last year – or an average of three times per day
• The Lab team completed 1.2 million tests
• Our Pharmacy filled more than 102,000 prescriptions, up 28% from the year before
• Our Urgent Care teams provided 48,000 patient visits – an increase of more than 9,000 over the previous year 
• The Palliative Care team helped 1,500 patients through more than 3,000 visits
• More than 2,200 babies were born in Bend and Madras 
• We created and processed almost 2.8 million pounds of dirty linen – that’s roughly the same weight as nine blue whales! 

When I think about these statistics, I know that excellent patient care and the many services that support it simply isn’t possible without our incredible employees, physicians, providers and volunteers.

I am enormously proud to support them and to lead this great organization.

Sincerely,
Steve