Table Of Content/7\ RUSH UNIVERSITY
VI/ MEDICAL CENTER
NEWSROUNDS
January 2008 Rush University Medical Center
Volume 47, Number 1
IN THIS ISSUE
1
RUSH CULTURE OF INCLUSION RECOGNIZED
Stroke Care Program Gets Gold
AWARD Seal ofApproval
WITH FEDERAL EVE
Breast Imaging Center Named
Center of Excellence
At Rush, respect for each other
means recognizing, valuing and
STUDY RANKS
enabling the contributions of
each employee and creating a RUSH IN TOP THREE
work environment where differ-
MEDICAL CENTERS
ences are accepted and valued.
That respect leads to compas- NATIONWIDE
sionate care for the hundreds of
patients who come to Rush Rush employees can take pride in
knowing they have helped make the
every day.
Medical Center one of the very best
The Medical Center’s commit- places to receive health care, according
ment to respect recently was to a national quality and safety study
recognized when the U.S. that recently ranked Rush number
Department ofLabor chose three among academic medical centers
Rush to receive a 2007 nationwide.
Exemplary Voluntary Efforts U.S. Department ofLabor Secretary Elaine Chao (right), presents the EVE For the third year in a row, Rush has
(EVE) Award. The award Award to Rush ChiefOperatingOfficer Peter Butler and Rush TrusteeJoan ranked in the top 10 in the annual
honors employers for exception- Hall duringa ceremony in November in Washington, DC. quality and accountability study con-
al efforts to increase employ- Rush was one ofonly three organiza- Enterprise Group, a Newark, N.J., ducted by the University HealthSystem
—
ment opportunities for minori- tions to receive a 2007 EVE Award utility company and one ofonly Consortium (UHC), an alliance of 97
—
ties, women, individuals with along with Cornell University in 17 employers (out ofthousands of academic medical centers and 153 of
disabilities and veterans. Ithaca, N.Y., and the Public Service continued on Page 2 continued on Page 3
NEWS & WORLD REPORT: RUSH AGAIN
U.S.
AMONG
RANKS NATION'S TOP HOSPITALS
U.S.News& WorldReport again nation), geriatrics (#17) and kidney "Rush continues to do great work in
ranked Rush University Medical diseases (#21).The other Rush pro- a broad spectrum of categories, and
Center among the top hospitals in grams that ranked among the best these rankings are representative of
the nation.The magazine's annual nationally were neurology and the quality of care we provide," says
"America's Best Hospitals" issue, neurosurgery (#15); urology (#26); Larry J. Goodman, MD, Rush presi-
which was published in July, 2007, endocrinology (#30); ear, nose and dent and CEO. "Our academic
listed Rush among the best hospitals throat (#32); cancer (#33); gynecology medical center has earned its place
in more specialty areas than any other (#37); digestive disorders (#38); and amongAmerica's best."
hospital in Illinois. Rush was rated heart and heart surgery (#48).
Hospitals received a score combining
among the top 50 programs nation-
wide in 1 1 ofthe 16 categories the According to U.S.News& WorldReport, three equally weighted elements: Ifyourdepartmentdidnot receive a
magazine evaluated. By comparison, its "America's Best Hospitals" issue is reputation, death rate and care- posterannouncing the designation
only 173 out of 5,462 hospitals in intended to "help patients find the related factors such as nursing (particularlyifyou arepartofthe
the United States (about 3 percent) best hospital when the need is great." and advanced services.The rank- specialties rankedin the 2007 issue),
scored high enough in 2007 to rank The magazine reports that most ofthe ings consist of the 50 highest- please contactMarketing and
in even a single specialty. ranked hospitals "are referral centers, scoring hospitals.The 2007 rankings Communications atext. 2-6883 to
places accustomed to seeing the were produced by RTI International, receive one. Ifyoustillhave 2006 U.S.
In three ofthese specialty areas, Rush toughest patients and conducting a leading research organization News posters or tabletop displays in
ranked higher than any other hospital bench-to-bedside research that based in ResearchTriangle Park, yourarea, please remove them.
in Illinois: orthopedics (#8 in the advances the state ofthe art." N.C. •
AWARD
EVE
continued from Page
I
federal contractors nationwide)
that the Department ot Labor
invited to submit application
proposals. Rush is the first
Chicago area organization to
receive the award in more than
a decade.
"\\ hen a company receives an
EYE Award, it says not only that
they’re compliant with federal
employment regulations, but that
they're leaders in making sure
there’s equal opportunity, includ-
ing opportunity tor advance-
ment; that they’re an asset in
their community; and that they
care about inclusion in every-
thing they do,” says Sandra (Left to right): Rush medical studentJennifer Gebhardt Karen Maloney, MD, supervisingattending, Medical Mobile
;
Zeigler, midwest regional director Van; and Rush medical studentJerome Gronli provide carefor homeless Chicagoans as part ofthe Rush Community
of the Department ofLabor’s Service Initiatives Program, one ofthe programs that contributed to the Medical Centerreceiving the EVE Award.
Office of Federal Contract
Compliance Programs. efforts. Rush had the first federally ethnic group (such as African- also recently implemented a policy
approved affirmative action pro- Americans, Latinos, Asians and of providing extra paid leave time
Rush Programs Nurture gram ofany major medical center Native Americans) and 72 per- for veterans of the U.S. Armed
Employees, Diversity in Illinois in the mid-70s, and we cent ofour employees are women. Forces who are returning to work
“This award demonstrates that have carried that commitment to To help employees of all levels after serving active duty.
Rush has cultivated a broadly equal opportunity in employment
and backgrounds advance in their Award includes Rush
diverse employee base, which and education forward to the point
translates into culturally sensitive that it is now being widely recog- ctaurieteirosn,rtehiembMuerdsiecmaelnCtebnetneerfiotfsfetros Patient Care, Community
Outreach
and respectful patient care,” says nized nationally.” both full- and part-time employ-
Larry Goodman, MD, Rush In addition to these employment
J. Rush’s equal employment opportu- ees through Linking Education
president and CEO. initiatives, Rush’s commitment to
nity programs include partnerships and Performance (LEAP). Rush
diversity in its patient care prac-
“At Rush, we strive to promote with area minority, women’s, dis- also provides other on-site edu-
tices and community service
a culture ofinclusion, both in ability and veterans’ organizations cation and training programs,
programs also contributed to the
our employment practices and in order to recruit members of including the School at Work Medical Center earning the EVE
in our patient care, educational these groups as employees. These program, which develops the
Award. For the third year in a row,
and research initiatives, and efforts have contributed to an skills ofeligible entry-level
Rush was awarded a perfect score
community service,” adds Beverly increase in minority representation employees to help them move
of 100 in the category of “equity
Huckman, associate vice presi- in the Rush workforce. More than toward patient care positions.
ofcare” by the University
dent for equal opportunity. “The 50 percent ofRush employees are This program is supported by
HealthSystem Consortium
EVE Award acknowledges those members ofan underrepresented the U.S. Department ofLabor.
(UHC), a national alliance of
(See story on page 7.)
academic medical centers, in its
NEWSROUNDS The Medical Center also strives annual quality and accountability
to accommodate the special study. This score indicates that
January 2008 Editor Anne Burgeson needs ofits employees. Rush’s Rush’s safety and quality ofcare do
Have a news item or story idea for Writers pro-parent workpolicies allow not vary, regardless ofa patient’s
NewsRoundsl Contactthe editor at: Cindee Castronovo, Nancy DiFiore, Judy many part-time employees to gender, race or socioeconomic
Phone:942-5582 Fax:563-4149 Germany, Jill Goldberg, Elizabeth Higgins, receive full-time benefits. Our status (see related story, Page 1).
E-mail:[email protected] Kevin McKeough, MaryAnn Schultz, Americans With Disabilities Task
Erin Thorne, KimWaterman As an academic medical center,
Force develops and implements
Marketing and Communications Designer Rush also is committed to
policies for persons with disabili-
Triangle Office Building Kristen Marzejon increasing access to health care
1700W.Van Buren St., Suite 250 ties and educates the Rush com- and educational opportunity for
Photographers
Chicago, IL 60612 munity about accommodating our community through the
Steve Gadomski, Bill Richert, persons with disabilities both as
Katherine Smedra and EricWerner following programs:
employees and as patients. Rush
continued on Page 3
2
continued from Page 2 NEW INITIATIVE WILL FURTHER DIVERSITY COMMITMENT
• The Rush Community Service
Building on the equal employment throughout the Medical Center.This effort promote a culture of inclusion, we also
Initiatives Program (RCSIP) opportunity commitment recognized by is focusing on the areas of leadership and realize there is much room for improve-
provides free health care to pri- the EVEAward, Rush recently initiated accountability; hiring, retention and pro- ment," says Bob Clapp, senior vice
marily African-American and a Diversity Leadership Group (DLG). motion; and training, conflict prevention president, hospital affairs, and DLG chair.
Latino residents at homeless and improved communication.The DLG
Made up ofemployees at every level "Rush is committed to ensuring that
shelters and through free clinics. from across the Medical Centerwho is developing specific actions to address this is a workplace where diversity is wel-
each ofthese priority areas.
• The student volunteer program represent the full spectrum of diversity, comed and encouraged at every level, and
RU Caring offers free health the DLG is helping Rush implement "While we are proud ofthe EVEAward's the Diversity Leadership Group is charged
— additional efforts to promote diversity acknowledgement of Rush's efforts to with helping achieve this goal." •
services including a variety of
—
tests and screenings at annual
1
health fairs as well as free tutor-
ing for students in a local school.
(See related story on page 10.)
• Rush’s You Care program awards
grants to nonprofit human
services organizations where our
employees volunteer.
|gr ’jKfis wmI A '
• Rush’s Science and Math mm - N
Excellence (SAME) Network \ PP“ k m!k W;' • 8£Of f .'si*,. JPBgPR.
1
provides students from predomi-
nantly African-American and
Latino schools in the communi-
ties surrounding Rush with the
same opportunities to learn math
and science in state-of-the-art
science facilities that are
available to their peers in more
affluent areas.
“The award is a reflection ofboth
what we do for our employees
internally to reach out and handle Members ofthe Diversity Leadership Group. Back row (left to right): Carmela Gonzalez, RDMS, ultrasound; Bob Clapp,
issues ofdiversity, and also what hospital affairs, andgroup chair; Mike Mulroe, hospital affairs; Peter Pwee, financial systems; Norma Melgoza, hospital
operations. Middle row: Sharon Gates, MA, the Rush Community Service Initiatives Program; Beverly Huckman, equal
the institution and our employees opportunity; Denise Gritsch, corporate and executive office; Brad Hinrichs, hospital operations; Lisa Prytula, RN, MSN,
do in reaching out to the broader 8 south Atrium; Lucy Willis, PhD, RN, multicultural affairs; Diane Howard, PhD, health systems management; Sheila
community in these related areas,” Dugan, MD, physical medicine and rehabilitation; Paula Brown, equal opportunity. Front row: Leo Correa, hematology
observesJane Grady, PhD, assistant and oncology; Jane Grady, PhD, human resources; Julie Benesh, employee and organizational development; Marilyn
O’Rourke, RN, MSN, nursing; Eugene Thonar, PhD, biochemistry andrheumatology Notpictured: Cynthia Boyd, MD,
vice president, human resources. • MBA, corporate compliance; Lois Halstead, PhD, RN, Rush University; CatherineJac.obson, strategic planningand
M
finance; WrenethaJulion, DNSc, PH, nursing; Angela Moody-Parker, RN, 8 Kellogg; Geraldine Moy, genetics;
the Rev. Clayton Thomason, religion, health and human values.
RUSH IN TOP THREE
shows that we continue to improve Hospital-Clarian Health in Indianapolis The UHC has estimated that if a
continued from Page 1 even as we provide an exceptionally (which is affiliated with Indiana middle- or average-performing hos-
their affiliated hospitals that includes high level of care. thank everyone at University) and within seven-tenths pital made the improvements neces-
I
more than 90 percent of the nation's Rush for helping to make a great of a point of second place Mayo Clinic sary to become a top-performing
nonprofit academic medical centers. medical center even better." in Rochester, Minn.The study again hospital such as Rush, more than
Rush is one of only four hospitals to awarded Rush a perfect five-star rating. 150 lives would be saved and the
Unlike other reviews of hospitals that
rank in the top 10 in each ofthe three hospital would have 124 fewer
take reputation into account, the UHC For the third consecutive year, Rush
years that the study has been conduct- readmissions each year.
study is a completely objective evalua- received a perfect score of 100 percent
ed, and the Medical Center's overall
ranking in 2007 was higher than any trieolnatbedasteodpeanttiiernetlyooutncoofmfeicsi.alTdhaeta2007 irneceeqiuvietythoefscaarmee, mhiegahn-iqnuagliptayticeanrtes U"BHeCinsgtuadytotprapnesrlfatoersmeirntionitmhperoved
other hospital in Illinois.
UHC study examined 83 academic regardless oftheir gender, race or outcomes for our patients,"
"The UHC study again has affirmed medical centers regarding measures of socioeconomic status. "Respect is one Goodman observes. "The results
that patients at Rush receive some of patient safety, mortality, effectiveness, of Rush's core values," Goodman says. reflect the hard work and dedication
the best medical care available any- equity of care and efficiency. "Receiving a consistently perfect score of every employee at Rush and their
where in the country," says Larry J. for equity of care shows that we extend shared commitment to providing the
Goodman, MD, Rush president and Rush received an overall score of 72 that respect to all of our patients, very best care for our patients. I
CEO. "Rush—'s number three ra—nking in percent in the study, within 1.2 percent- regardless oftheir backgrounds or congratulate the entire staff on
this study our highest yet also age points of top scoring Methodist circumstances." this achievement." •
3
RUSH LEADERS ADVISE COUNTY The members of the
Cook County Bureau of
REGARDING HEALTH SYSTEM OVERHAUL
Health Services Review
Committee included the
Rush's commitment to provid- services, the bureau will need
following individuals:
ing the best possible health additional revenues to offset a
care tor the people of Chicago decrease in federal funding. • Larry Goodman, MD,
J.
includes taking a lead role in However, Goodman cautioned president and chief
addressing issues that affect that such increases must be executive officer, Rush
care tor the entire Chicago accompanied by reform in the University Medical Center
area. In an example of this bureau’s governance. “We’re (committee chairman)
leadership. Rush President and not confident that money will • Kathleen K. DeVine,
CEO Larry J. Goodman, MD, be spent the best way if the former chiefexecutive
recently chaired a special structure itself doesn’t change. officer, Saint Anthony
committee that assessed the That’s an important thing,” Hospital
Cook County Bureau ofHealth Goodman says.
• David S. Hefner, presi-
Services. Rush Chiet Financial
Cook County Board President dent, University of
Officer and Treasurer
Todd Stroger convened the Chicago Medical Center
CatherineJacobson and Board
committee at the direction of • Catherine A. Jacobson,
of Trustees Vice-Chairman
U.S. Sen. Richard Durbin of senior vice president of
Richard Jafte also were among
the members who served on Illinois, who praised the com- LarryJ. Goodman, MD strategic planning and
mittee’s work and Goodman’s finance and chieffinancial
the 10-person committee. key role in Rush’s patient care
leadership. “The health profes- officer and treasurer, Rush
— and education mission. Rush
The committee’s report sionals and civic leaders who University Medical Center
physicians help staffthe
which included a recommenda- accepted the challenge to CORE Center, an outpatient • Richard M. Jaffee, chair-
tion to create an independent review the critical issues facing man, Oil-Dri Corporation
— HIV/AIDS care facility that is
board to run the bureau was the Cook County Bureau of ofAmerica, and vice
run by the bureau and located
formally presented to the Health Services have produced chairman, Board of
on Harrison St. just west of
Cook County Board of a comprehensive, professional Trustees, Rush University
the Rush campus. Rush and
Commissioners on Oct. 16. and honest analysis,” Durbin Medical Center
Stroger Hospital also conduct
The report received extensive says. “I thank them for the joint residency programs, and • Valerie B. Jarrett,
coverage in Chicago-area many hours they volunteered chairman ofthe board,
Rush medical students perform
news media. and especially thank Dr. Larry University ofChicago
clinical rotations and clerk-
Goodman ofRush University Medical Center
The Cook County Bureau of ships at Stroger.
Medical Center for his excep-
Health Services maintains • Terry Mason, MD,
— tional leadership chairing “The Cook County Bureau of
three hospitals including commissioner, Chicago
John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital this review.” Health is essential to the well- Department ofPublic
being ofour community, and
ofCook County, a partner in Goodman also presented the Health
it is a vital partner in Rush’s
Rush’s clinical and educational committee’s findings to the • Lori Mitchell, chief
— work,” says Goodman, who J.
programs 30 community Commercial Club ofChicago financial officer,
was medical director ofCook
health clinics and the county’s on Nov. 8 at the organization’s Harborview Medical
County Hospital (now Stroger WA
Department ofPublic Health. 950th meeting. Founded in Center, Seattle,
Hospital) before joining the
The bureau provides health 1877, the Commercial Club of Rush administrative staffin • Eric E. Whitaker, MD,
care for hundreds ofthousands Chicago is a membership organ- MPH, former director,
1998. “Everyone at the
ofCook County residents, pri- ization which is made up of Illinois Department of
Medical Center has an interest
marily the poor and uninsured, senior business, professional, Public Health, and execu-
in the bureau’s effective
and is struggling with a budget educational and cultural leaders tive vice president for
operation and the success ofits
crisis that led to the closing of who seek to address social and strategic affiliations and
12 clinics in 2007. Even with economic issues of importance mission. I am grateful to Cathy associate dean for com-
Jacobson and RichardJaffe for
these closures, the committee to the Chicago region. munity based research,
their hard work and many
estimates the bureau’s budget University ofChicago
Goodman notes that in addition contributions to the review Medical Center
deficit for the 2007 fiscal year
to providing a safety net of process, and I hope our efforts,
will be $69 million. • John Wiest, chieffinancial
medical services for county resi- will help contribute to the
officer, Lee Memorial
The report found that in order dents, the Cook County Bureau bureau’s long-term sustain-
Health System,
to maintain its current level of ofHealth Services also plays a ability and success.” •
Ft. Meyers, Fla.
LIVING VALUES EVERY DAY
2nd Quarter Employee Awards
Every quarter, Rush employees first meeting that there were many
are recognized for going other issues to address, and the project
blossomed into a long-term process
above and beyond the call
development committee.The team's
of duty for patients, families, passion and collaboration are infectious.
visitors and co-workers. These
employees are shining exam- Patient Satisfaction "Star"
ples of the Rush CARE values Every quarter, an employee whose
I name appears in two or more favorable
(innovation, collaboration,
patient evaluations is awarded the Patient
accountability, respect and Satisfaction "Star" award. This quarter,
excellence). Here are the not one, but three "Stars" were honored:
winners of Rush's awards for Aloha Benig, RN, short-term stay unit;
Sunshine Chavez, occupational therapy,
the second quarter of fiscal
JRB; and William Annang, CT and MRI
year 2008
. manager, radiology.
Employee of the Quarter
Carol Stege Awards
Laura Zuckerman, RN, registered
In 1979, Charles Stege established an
nurse, adult critical care-neuro
award in honor of his wife, Carol, who
intensive care unit has proven to have
had been a patient of Rush for many
exemplary decision-making skills in
years, to thank employees who had done
her leadership role, and she constantly
so much to make her comfortable during
seeks new ways to handle delicate
her hospital stay. He stipulated that this
situations. As a charge nurse, she also
works hard to make sure that the unit award be given to two specific groups of
is appropriately staffed. Zuckerman employees who are not direct caregivers
often receives praise, thank-yous and but are responsible for making our envi-
cards from patients and families for ronment clean, safe, comfortable and
her care and support. Her continued well maintained.
acts of kindness give a true indication The employees from Environmental
of her initiative and leadership Services and Medical Center Engineering
capabilities. work behind the scenes for our patients
and their families to make sure everything
Manager of the Quarter
is in good order and working properly,
Patricia Altman, RN, unit director,
exemplifying Rush's quality of care.
emergency medicine, displays skills
and motivation in the face of adver- Carol Stege Award Winner
sity; is willing to take on additional for Engineering
responsibilities without question; and
Haris Orle, electronic technician, has taken
is highly successful in maintaining the it upon himselfto learn to repair older
flow of the departmental agenda on
equipment, saving money and time for the
multiple fronts. In an effort to support
engineering department. "He has proved
the department during a time when
his knowledge since he began working at
there were gaps in leadership, Altman
Rush," says Mike Craig, manager, medical
stepped up and filled in without
center engineering.
asking questions, going well beyond
her normal role and responsibilities.
Carol Stege Award Winner
She has displayed commendable
for Environmental Services
tenacity and willingness to maintain
Mark Green, floor specialist, has helped
excellence.
keep up a stunning level of maintenance
Team of the Quarter for the special care nursery, labor and
The Resuscitation Team, Labor and delivery. Green is dedicated and takes
Delivery, was initially established to pride in his work. "His consistency is
develop and implement an interdisci- impeccable. He is a role model in what
plinary record for neonatal stabiliza- the I CARE values stand for," says Monika
tion and resuscitation to be used Farkas, director, environmental services.*
by the staff at newborn deliveries. Tonominatesomeone fora quarterlyaward,
However, it became apparent from the callClareQuinn, ext. 2-6635.
NATIONAL GUARD TRAINS WITH
RUSH BEFORE IRAQ DEPLOYMENT
In a unique collaboration between classroom training, simulation lano
Rush and the Illinois National ratory exorcises, advanced trauma
Guard, about 70 soldiers took part laboratory training and observation
in an intensive training session at of a lewd 1 trauma center.
the Medical (.'enter in May before
The training augmented the prepa-
deploring to Iraq last summer. The
ration the military had already pro-
linois National Guard 708th
vided tor the medics. Rush’s course
Ground Ambulance Medical
focused on basic trauma response,
Gompanv participated in trauma
which included clearing the airway,
and life support training at Rush
controlling bleeding, managing
to prepare tor the treatment of
Hints, restricting spinal move-
military casualties. The goal: to
ments, immobilizing limbs and
provide the medics with hands-on
applying splints. The medics also
instructionbefore they encoun-
received advanced training in trau-
tered trauma in the field.
ma response leadership; advanced
“We didn’t just want the soldiers airway management; needle chest
to learn to respond to trauma in decompression (inserting a needle
the classroom. We wanted them to to release air from a collapsed
experience these situations before lung); fluid resuscitation to offset
they were deployed,” said Dino severe blood losses; and advanced
Rumoro, DO, clinical chairperson, life support. The medical soldiers
Department ofEmergency received International Trauma
Medicine at Rush. “Seeing a trau- Life Support certification at
mafor the first time can be shock- the conclusion ofthe four-day
ing. We hoped to avoid potential training session.
delays in treatment due to care-
The participants received part
giver shock by better preparing oftheir training in the Rush Rachel Burke, MD, an emergency medicine physician, observes as soldiers
the soldiers before they arrived University Simulation Laboratory. from the Illinois National Guard 708th Ground Ambulance Medical
in the field.” Company work on a patient simulator.
The laboratory uses life-sized com-
The workshop focused on the blast puter-controlled “virtual patients” exhalation ofcarbon dioxide, paramedics in the Rush emergency
and bum injuries the medical com- capable ofsimulating nearly any chest movements, coughing, room, a level I trauma center.
pany would see most often in com- possible human medical or trau- palpable pulses and much more.
bat. It also addressed the important matic emergency, including allergic Rush welcomed another group of
issue ofthe initial psychological reactions, the effects ofbiochemical The medics concluded their Rush medics this past November who
impact ofa trauma, helping sol- agents or loss oflimb from a blast training by observing real-life received the same type oftraining
diers to overcome the emotional injury. The simulators have life-like emergency medical response to as the summer group. This group
barriers ofhandling casualties and human functions that enhance trauma patients. They spent four of45 medics will most likely be
injuries. The course included training, such as blinking eyes, hours with physicians, nurses and deployed to Iraq next fall. •
A VIEW FROM THE TOP
While some people have the opportunityto watch the construction on our campus
from the top floors ofthe main parking garage or the Johnston R. Bowman Health
Center, most of us get only a street level view ofthe work taking place.
That's why aerial photographs ofthe construction site will be taken periodically to
docum—ent our progress.These sweeping shots will give employees a bird's eye
view and a sense ofthe magnitude ofthe project, which currently includes
construction ofthe new orthopedic ambulatory building (foreground) and the new
energy plant and parking garage (left ofthe main parking garage).
It's all part ofthe RushTransformation, which is well underway. Many changes
have alreadytaken place across the campus, from the renovation ofthe main parking
garage, to the relocation ofthe Human Resources Department and the Laurance
Armour Day School, to the closing of Flournoy St. atAshland Ave.
From time to time, new aerial photos will be posted on the RushTransformation
portal so you can track the progress. In addition, fourWebcams are being installed
around the construction site to provide daily updated images on the Internet
at www.rush.edu. In the meantime, continue to log on to the portal at
http://rushportal.rush.edu forthe latest information.
RUSH UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER'S STROKE
CARE PROGRAM GETS GOLD SEAL OF APPROVAL
Rush University Medical “The stroke team at Rush is very blood clots and innovative
proud ofthe distinction and the endovascular procedures to remove
Center has earned the "Gold
high standards we achieved in our blood clots and preserve brain cells
Seal ofApproval" from the
first year as a stroke program,” when blood flow to the brain is
Joint Commission for primary says Shyam Prabhakaran, MD, blocked. This treatment can reduce
stroke centers. This certifica- stroke neurologist. “Ofcourse, the brain damage and disability
tion means that Rush tailors this achievement is only a start, that result from a stroke.
treatment to individual needs as continual performance sur- In addition to immediate treat-
veillance and improvement are
as well as encourages commu- ment, Rush provides comprehen-
essential to maintaining such
nication, adheres to national high standards. We will keep up sive specialized follow-up care for Shyam Prabhakaran, MD, stroke neurologist
those coping with the aftermath of
stroke guidelines, and continu- this great work and continue to
ally assesses and improves provide the best stroke care a stroke or stroke-related condition. program in 2002. It is the first pro-
how care is delivered. possible for our patients.” wSitrtohkpehynseiucraolloaginsdtsocwcourpkatciloonsaelly gcerratimfyofdiistseaksiendmainnatgheemceonutntprryo-to
To earn this distinction, the The inpatient neurology stroke therapists to develop plans that grams. A list ofprograms certified
stroke program underwent an team at Rush is available 24 help patients recover from the by the Joint Commission is avail-
extensive, on-site evaluation by hours a day, seven days a week, disabling effects ofstrokes and able at www.jointcommission.org.
lower the risks offuture strokes.
a team ofJoint Commission to respond immediately to acute
Approximately 600 inpatients with
reviewers. stroke patients. Rush also has a Stroke is the leading cause ofadult stroke and other cerebrovascular
“This certification means Rush c1a7rebeudninteu(rIoCsUc)iewnictehiantdeendsiicvaeted dciasuasbeiloiftydeaantdh,isrtahnekitnhgirjdusltarbgeeshtind dRiussohrdeUrnsivaerresittreyaMteeddiecaaclhCyeenarteart
UtnhievreirgshittythMiengdsicaanldCdeonetserthdeomes CT scanner in the unit. The out- heart disease and cancer. In the by a multi-disciplinary team that
patient comprehensive cerebro- United States, the annual occur- includes stroke neurologists, cere-
well for stroke patients,” says
Jean E. Range, MS, RN, CPHQ, vnaesucruolsaurrgceloinnisc,onfufrerssesneaunrdoloogtihsetrs, resetnicmeaotfedstartokmeorisecotnhsaenrv7a0t0i,v0e0l0y brardoivoalsocgiusltasr,nseturrookseu-rtrgaeionnesd,nnuerusreos,-
executive director, Disease- professionals who specialize in the annually. The anticipated direct rehabilitation services, and physical
Specific Care Certification, Joint
Commission. An independent, diagnoses, treatment, study and and indirect costs ofischemic therapists. Rush was ranked 15th in
prevention ofstrokes and other stroke in the United States have the nation in neurology and neuro-
not-for-profit organization, the
related neurological problems. risen from $29 billion in 1990 to surgery, according to the U.S.News
Joint Commission is the nation’s $58 billion in 2006. and World Report. •
oldest and largest standards- Specialists at Rush provide
setting and accrediting body advanced medical treatment, The Joint Commission launched its For more information go to
in health care. using drugs that quickly dissolve Disease-Specific Care Certification <www.rush.edu.
SCHOOL AT WORK PROGRAM CELEBRATES GRADUATION
In June, 13 Rush employees had some- Pictured here are members of the coach and facilitator, Pamela Wooden, Marilyn Hall, secretary, ambulatory
thing to celebrate: graduating from the 2007 class. Standing (left to right): human resources consultant, employee surgery unit. Not pictured: Zaida Llera,
School atWork (SAW) program. Donesia Norman, patient access and organizational development; Cheryl administrative assistant, internal
coordinator, hospital finance; Devera Hunt, patient coordinator, radiology; and medicine/psychiatry. •
Supported by the U.S. Department of
Jones, unit clerk, pediatric intensive
Labor, SAW helps prevent workforce
care unit; Melanie Holman, data
shortages by educating entry-level
coordinator, hematology/oncology;
workers about health care careers.The
Diana Zegarra, office manager,
eight-month program provides the
hematology/oncology; Erica Burnett,
competencies and develops the skills
administrative assistant, technical
of eligible employees so they can move
transfer; Elizabeth Tovar, Institutional
toward patient care positions, while
Review Board secretarial coordinator,
also encouraging continuing education.
research and clinical trials adminis-
Congratulations to Rush's 2007
tration; and Carlos Romero, telecom-
SAW graduates.
munications operator, telecommunica-
The program is overseen by site coach tions. Seated (left to right): Hortense
and facilitator Pamela Wooden. The role Dillon, medical assistant, hematol-
ofthe coach is to give the employees ogy/oncology; Hope 0. Gordon,
support and encouragement as well pharmacy technician III, infusion
as ensuring that the program is pharmacy; Maria Zamora, collector,
managed properly. Vyridian/medical billing; SAW site
MEMORY TREE LIVES ON
t \er\ \tav, staff from \\ omen’s and C hildren's Sen1ices, includ-
ing employees of Rush Children's t lospital, the neonatal inten
sive care unit, labor and delivery and the New Lite Family
Center, hold a memorial sendee on the Rush campus. Families
who experienced a pregnancy loss or the death of a child arc
inc ited to the sendee. In addition to lighting a candle and com-
ing together to celebrate their child’s life, they also place rib-
bons with special messages to their children on what has
become known as the Memory Tree. Due to construction of the
new Medical Center buildings, the tree was removed earlier in
300< ; it would not have survived being moved because of its
age. To honor the children, as well as the Memory Tree itself,
wood medallions w ill be createdfrom the old tree to be used at
the May 2008 memorial service. During this future service, the
new tree will be dedicated and ashes from the old tree will be
mixed in with the soil of the new tree. On Nov. 8, members
from the Stepping Stones Perinatal Support Group witnessed
the planting of the new Memory Tree, donated by Brickman
Landscaping. The new? tree is located in the courtyard just
west ofthe Professional Building.
CHICAGO HEART WALK HITS THE STREETS
Cardiovasculardiseases are the No. 1 killer ofmen and women in who recently retired as administrative assistant to the ChiefMedical
Illinois and in the country: One out ofevery three Americans is Officer, chaired 2007 Rush Heart Walk teams. In 2006, 16 Rush teams
affected by heart disease or stroke during his or her lifetime. In raised $17,000; in 2007, 35 Rush teams raised more than $60,000.
September, members ofthe Rush community set out to help change
Because ofthe Rush team’s huge increase in funds raised (353 percent
these statistics by participating in the American Heart Association’s
to be exact) over the 2006 campaign, Rush received the health
Heart Walk in Grant Park. The walk raises funds for heart disease
care significant growth award from the American Heart Association.
research and treatment.
The team received a traveling trophy and a thank-you poster.
Approximately 250 Rush employees participated as walkers, donors Congratulations to everyone who participated.
and team captains. Barbara Cook, resident educational coordinator,
For more information on the Heart Walk or the American Heart
physical medicine and rehabilitation; Paul Boughamer, manager, gradu-
Association, please visit http://heartwalk.kintera.org/faf/home.
ate medical education-medical affairs administration; and Cecilia Wege,
RUSH BREAKS GROUND FOR NEW ORTHOPEDIC AMBULATORY BUILDING
On July 11, Rush clinicians,
faculty, staff and special guests
gathered to celebrate the
groundbreaking for the Medical
Center's new orthopedic
ambulatory care building.
This historic day marked the first
phase of construction for the Rush
Transformation, the $907 million,
eight-year comprehensive redevelop-
ment of the Medical Center campus.
The new 220,000-square-foot, $37-
—
million facility which will be the
largest orthopedic medical office build-
—
ing in Illinois will be located on the
Rush campus immediately west of
Ashland Ave. between Harrison and
Flournoy streets. Midwest Orthopaedics
at Rush, a private practice medical
group whose members are on the Rush
faculty, will occupy four floors ofthe
five-story building. From left to right: AnthonyJones, district directorfor Sen. Ricky Hendon; LarryJ. Goodman, MD, Rush president
and CEO; Dan Cantrell, district directorfor Rep. Danny Davis; RichardJaffee, vice'chair, Board ofTrustees;
"This new facility will consolidate Edward Brennan, chair, Board ofTrustees who passed away at the end December; Gunnar B.J. Andersson, MD,
patient services into one convenient
PhD, chair, orthopedic surgery and spine, back and neck specialist, Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush; andJay Stewart,
location and provide space for growth
cowhair, Rush Arthritis and Orthopedics Institute.
in order to meet the increasing demand
for orthopedic patient care services," Orthopaedics at Rush will close its offices for orthopedic surgeons and staff; "This is a thrilling time for Rush," says
says Gunnar B.J.Andersson, MD, PhD, satellite office at 800 S.Wells St. and a clinical research center, pain center and Larry J. Goodman, MD, Rush president
chairperson ofthe Department of consolidate its outpatient facilities on clinical resource center; diagnostic imag- and CEO. "We are beginning to see the
Orthopedic Surgery at Rush, and spine, the Rush campus. ing functions; and the Department of first visible signs of a transformation that
back and neck specialist with Midwest Orthopedic Surgery's Gait Laboratory. will not only redesign and rebuild Rush's
Orthopaedics at Rush. Once the new The orthopedics ambulatory care build- The new building is expected to be landscape, but that also will elevate the
building is complete, Midwest ing will house outpatient clinic space; completed in 2009. way Rush cares for its patients." •
BOARD CHAIRMAN EDWARD BRENNAN: 1934 2007
-
Rush lost a steadfast supporter "When Ed took over, Rush was facing founder Richard Sears. He rose through
and friend when Edward Brennan, some very serious challenges," the ranks to become Sears' eleventh chair-
chairman ofthe Rush Board of Goodman says. "Ed's leadership was man in 1986. He retired as chairman and
Trustees, passed away on Dec. invaluable, particularly at such a critical chief executive officer on Aug. 9, 1995.
27 at his home in Burr Ridge. He time. He had a great business sense.
was 73. But more than that, he had a true A long-time member ofthe board of
understanding of our mission. He was AMR Corporation, the parent company of
Brennan joined the board in 1986 also proud of the diversity in our American Airlines, Brennan was tapped to
and was named to the executive patients and the quality of people who serve as executive chairman in 2003 when
committee in 1996. From 1988 work at Rush and often spoke about the company was in financial crisis. He
until he assumed the chairmanship each ofthese. Ed was a highly ethical served in that role for a year and American
in 1998, he chaired the leadership and principled individual. His approach Airlines successfully avoided bankruptcy.
committee for the Rush Heart was that if you can't go home and tell and the Big Shoulders Fund.The Boys
Institute.As board chairman he your family about a decision you made Long engaged in community affairs, and Girls Clubs of Chicago established
convened and led a committee during the day, you shouldn't make Brennan served as chairman ofthe Board theEdward A. Brennan Youth Leadership
to examine and address financial that decision.With his passing, Rush of Governors ofthe United Way of Program in recognition of Brennan's
and market challenges facing the lost a true friend and champion." America, and as chairman ofthe board "outstanding leadership in corporate
Medical Center. He subsequently of Marquette and DePaul Universities. Last America and ongoing support of the
chaired the search committee that Born in Chicago on Jan. 16, 1934, year, Dominican University in River Forest group's clubs in Greater Chicago."
identified Larry J. Goodman, MD, as Brennan graduated from Marquette renamed its business school in honor of
the chief executive officer for Rush. University in the 1950s and joined Brennan and his wife, Lois, who was a Brennan is survived by his wife, Lois,
As chairman, Brennan provided Sears Roebuck & Co., selling men's fur- student there when Brennan courted her. their six children and 19 grandchildren.
important guidance and encourage- nishings in Madison,Wis. He followed in Inlieuofflowers,memorialsmaybesenttotheCampaign
ment to the board, faculty and the footsteps of his father, four uncles He also served on the boards of the forRushUniversityMedicalCenter, 1700WestVanBuren,
management team at Rush. and a grandfather who worked beside Chicago Museum of Science and Industry Suite250, Chicago,IL60612-3244orwww.rush.edu.
. -
COMMUNITY
SERVICE INSPIRES GATES
Sharon Gates, MA, learned the tor the new school year, where we
value of community service long treated more titan 400 people.”
before she began Iter work as the
Both events offered physicals,
director of the Rush Community
immunizations, hypertension,
Service Initiatives Program
vision and nutrition screenings
(RGS1P) for Rush Medical College.
and otherservices to families and
She learned it as a child. individuals who don’t have insur-
Early in her life, Gates went with ance. The back-to-school fair also
her mother to soup kitchens to gave away 450 donated backpacks
help serve meals to the poor. “My full of school supplies to students
mother taught me the importance of all ages. RU Caring collected
of giving back and helping others,” the supplies during a drive on the
Gates says. “Whateveryou put out Rush campus.
there, whateveryou give, you get
“In addition to the traditional
it back tenfold. It’s an amazing health screenings offered, we
feeling."
wanted to get the kids excited
In her work at Rush, Gates helps about school. We wanted to re-
pass on thatsame commitment to create that feeling you got as a
philanthropy to a new generation. kid when you went school-supply Sharon Gates, MA, helps to guide Rush students as they serve our surround
A major component ofherjob shopping,” Gates says. ingcommunities
involves serving as faculty advisor
RU The back-to-school fair also edu-
for (.Rush University) Caring, a
cated the students about health
student-run volunteer organization
care careers. The children had the
that brings together Rush medical,
opportunity to try their hands
nursing, audiology and occupa-
at clinical procedures, such as
tional therapy students to provide
intubations, using the robot
health care to underserved com-
patient simulators from the Rush
munities through health fairs and
University Simulation Faboratory.
educational programs.
RU
Caring also fosters education
Gates helps the organization with
in the community through the
administrative duties, such as
group’s weekly tutoring program
maintaining its budget, designing
at William H. King Elementary
its program and identifying and
School, located approximately
working with partners in the
community who might want to one mile west ofthe Medical
co-sponsor an event. Even more Center. For more than a year, RU
telling ofGates’ role and her per- Caring members have been tutor-
ing at King, contributing to a
sonality’ is that she acts as a sound-
ing board for the students. She’s 17-percent improvement in the
students’ performance on the
their “go-to” person for solutions to
problems that might arise. She’s annual Illinois Standards
also the person who guides them, Achievement Test (ISAT) from
helping them see what’s possible 2005 to 2006. The ISAT measures
within the group’s parameters. student learning and performance.
Originally slated to close because
In collaboration with the students,
ofpoor academic performance,
RU
Gates helped oversee Caring’s
King elementary school was able Occupational therapy studentJulie Haimann works with a young boy at the
two main events in 2007: the
to stay open thanks to the Spring Into Health Fitness Fair.
Spring Into Fitness Health Fair
improvement in test scores.
in May at the United Center and
the Back-to-School Health Fair It’s obvious that RU Caring has The clinic opened Nov. 5. “This and his humanitarian work, is
inAugust at the Fosco Park made an impact on the communi- is the first time in Rush’s history given to those individuals who
Community Center on Chicago’s ties surrounding Rush, and that that a student group will form an demonstrate a daily commitment
West Side. It was the third conse- connection is why Gates expects interdisciplinary clinic on such a to philanthropy while on
cutive yearfor both events, and the group to grow in the future large scale,” Gates says. the job.
Gates was pleased with the out- and offer more services. Currently, Given that philanthropy touches Gates clearly gets as much out
come. “We saw more than 500 the program is working with the nearly every aspect ofGates’ ofher work as she puts into it.
people at the spring event, which Chicago Christian Industrial job, it’s fitting that she’s a past “The students are great; they’re a
focused primarily on adults,” Gates League to offer an interdisciplin- winner ofRush’s Henry R Russe, part ofme,” she says. “It’s a sheer
says. “The back-to-school health ary wellness clinic in the North MD, Award. The award, named joy being here at Rush. I just love
fair centered on preparing children Lawndale community. in honor ofa former Rush dean what I do.” •
