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  • Pediatric Specialty Care
    7/27/2010

    In partnershiip with Doernbecher Children's Hospital, The Vancouver Clinic is now offering pediatric specialty care.

    If you have a child with special healthcare needs, we can help: We are pleased to announce a new partnership with OHSU Doernbecher Children's Hospital. Our new relationship with OHSU means a dramatic increase in our ability to provide specialized pediatric care - now closer to home.

    This partnership means more services, less wait time for appointments and a simpler path to specialized care in the SW Washington community. Working together with The Vancouver Clinic physicians, more than fifteen Doernbecher specialists will address pediatric issues in the fields of cardiology, neurology, gastroenterology, nephrology, hematology, sleep medicine, child development and eating disorders. Providers working with The Vancouver Clinic include:

    Adolescent Medicine: Barbara Long, M.D.; Wayne Sells, M.D.
    Cardiology: Sedrashi Balaji, M.D.; Brandon Kelly, M.D.; Mary Minette, M.D.; Mark Reller, M.D.
    Developmental Pediatrics: Robin McCoy, M.D.; Rita Pinoscha, M.D.
    Endocrinology: Bruce Boston, M.D.; Lisa Madison, M.D.
    Gastroenterology: Bill Byrne, M.D.; Joel Friedlander, M.D.; Janice Tendler, M.D.
    Nephrology: Sandra Irragori, M.D.; Dave Rozansky, M.D.
    Neurology: Tom Koch, M.D.; Joe Pinter, M.D.; Barry Russman, M.D.
    Sleep Disorders: Liz Super, M.D.

    We are thrilled to bring this kind of range and depth to our offerings, and remain committed to providing the best healthcare for your needs. Doernbecher specialists will begin seeing patients at The Vancouver Clinic in August. If you have questions, or would like to set up an appointment, call toll free at 877-346-0640.

    Contact:

    Angie Lamirata
    Clinic Managers
    360.397.3929

  • High-Risk Pregnancy Care
    7/12/2010

    High-risk pregnancy care now available at The Vancouver Clinic.

    Finding out you are having a baby can be the most joyous occasion in a woman's life. However, it may be a time of concern, especially if you are diagnosed with a high-risk pregnancy or if you are worried about the health of your baby. The Vancouver Clinic is pleased to announce the Sally Segel, M.D.arrival of Dr. Sally Segel, a specialist in ultrasound and high-risk pregnancy. She has expertise in caring for women with complicated pregnancies: multiple gestations, preterm birth and birth defects.

    By using state-of-the-art ultrasound and diagnostic tests. Dr. Segel and her team will evaluate your health, and the health of your baby, before delivery. We then work closely with you and your family to develop a care plan to manage any problems identified. Throughout your pregnancy, we will ensure that you understand your medical conditions and the options available to you. All of your questions and concerns will be addressed thoroughly and sensitively.

    Dr. Segel and her team will be caring for patients in the Obstetrics and Gynecology department at our 87th Avenue and Salmon Creek offices. Ask your provider for a referral. Provider referrals can be made by calling 360-397-3874.
    Contact:

    Kathy Abramson
    Clinic Manager
    360.397.3221

  • Physical Therapy department offers Saturday appointments.
    6/22/2010

    The Vancouver Clinic Physical Therapy department is now offering Saturday appointments at our 87th Avenue location.

    In an effort to accommodate our patients' busy schedules, the Physical Thearpy department at The Vancouver Clinic is now offering Saturday appointments at our 87th Avenue location. In addition to extended hours during the week, you can now schedule an appointment from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday by calling TVC-APPT (360.882.2778).

    Contact:

    Adam Cowling
    Manager, Physical Therapy
    360.397.3614

  • Acupuncture Comes to The Vancouver Clinic
    5/6/2010

    Dr. Steven Koh is now providing acupuncture services at The Vancouver Clinic.

    The Vancouver Clinic is pleased to announce that Dr. Steven Koh, M.D.Steven Koh is now providing acupuncture services at The Vancouver Clinic. Dr. Koh practices Family Medicine at our Columbia Tech Center location and is a licensed acupuncturist.

    What is acupuncture?
    Acupuncture is the practice of puncturing the skin with needles at certain anatomical points in the body to relieve specific symptoms associated with many diseases. The anatomical points (acupuncture points) are thought to have certain electrical properties, which affect chemical neurotransmitters in the body.

    According to the theories of acupuncture, the human body has more than 400 acupuncture points connected via pathways, or meridians. These pathways create an energy flow (QI, pronounced "chee") through the body that is responsible for overall health. Disruption of the energy flow can cause disease. Acupuncture may correct these imbalances when applied at acupuncture points and improve the flow of Qi.

    What does acupuncture feel like?
    Acupuncture is generally performed with metallic, solid and hair-thin needles. Patients report different feelings associated with acupuncture, but most feel minimal pain as the needle is inserted. Acupuncture makes some people report feeling energized by the treatment, while others say they feel relaxed.

    How does Acupuncture affect the body:
    Many studies have documented acupuncture's effects on the body, but none has fully explained how acupuncture works within the framework of Western medicine. Researchers have proposed several processes to explain acupuncture's effects, primarily on pain.

    In general, acupuncture points are believed to stimulate the central nervous system, which, in turn, releases chemicals into the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals either alter the experience of pain or release other chemicals that influence the body's self-regulating systems. These biochemical changes may stimulate the body's natural healing abilities and promote physical and emotional wellbeing.

    Is Acupuncture safe?
    Acupuncture is safe when practiced by a Licensed Acupuncturist. The needles used are prepackaged, sterile and disposable, virtually eliminating any chance of infection.

    What conditions may benefit from Acupuncture?
    Many American seek acupuncture treatment for relief of chronic pain, such as arthritis or low back pain. Acupuncture, however, has expanded uses in other parts of the world. The World Health Organization (WHO) lists conditions that may benefit from acupuncture.

    -Digestive: abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, hyperacidity, indigestion
    -Emotional: anxiety, depression, insomnia, nervousness
    -Gynecological: menopausal symptoms, premenstrual symptoms
    -Musculoskeletal: headaches, migraines, neurogenic bladder dysfunction, Parkinson's disease, postoperative pain, stroke, sciatica
    -Respiratory: asthma, bronchitis, common cold, sinusitis
    -Miscellaneous: smoking cessation, weight loss, addiction control, blood pressure regulation, chronic fatigue, immune system tonification, stress reduction.

    While there are many diagnoses suitable for acupuncture treatment, like most conventional medical treatments, some individuals will respond better than other to this form of treatment. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Koh, please call our Patient Service Center at TVC-APPT (360-882-2778). An initial consult will be required to develop a treatment plan. Some insurance plans do cover acupuncture treatment but many do not. Please contact your insurance carrier prior to treatment to gain a full understanding of your insurance benefits.
    Contact:

    Jan McAulay
    Manager, Family Medicine
    360-397-3533

  • TVC Doctor Voted "Extraordinary Doctor of the Year"
    4/2/2010

    Southwest Washington Medical Center has recognized Dr. Brian Harwood at their Extraordinary Doctor of the Year for 2010.

    Southwest Washington Medical Center (SWMC) has recognized Dr. Brian Harwood as their Extraordinary Doctor of the Year for 2010. On Doctor's Day, March 30th, SWMC recognized the hundreds of talented and compassionate physicians who provide exceptional medicine for every patient they serve at SWMC. Dr. Harwood was chosen as Extraordinary Doctor of the Year from among their list of nominated physicians during a special employee vote in March.

    Dr. Harwood is a pulmonologist in our internal medicine department. He was recently recognized for over 30 years of service at The Vancouver Clinic. Dr. Harwood serves on the Board of Directors for SWMC and provides hospice care through the Ray Hickey House.

    Congratulations Dr. Harwood!
  • Sleep Awareness Support Group of Clark County
    2/19/2010

    The first meeting of the Sleep Awareness Support Group will be March 10th at The Vancouver Clinic.

    The Vancouver Clinic Pacific Sleep Center NW and Southwest Washington Medical Group Sleep Center are working together to establish a sleep awareness support group for patients, family and friends who are affected by sleep apnea or related sleep issues.

    The initial organizational meeting, which will be held in conjunction with Sleep Awareness Week, will be March 10th at 6:30 p.m. in the conference rooms at The Vancouver Clinic, 700 NE 87th Avenue.

    Dr. Jeffrey Lin, board certified sleep specialist, will present the educational topic for the evening "Anything for a Good Night's Sleep". This will be followed by an open discussion regarding future topics and issues of interest to the community.

    The meeting is free and light refreshments will be provided. Please come and share your ideas and questions and meet your local sleep professionals and vendors. For more information, call the Pacific Sleep Center NW at  (360) 397-3606.
    Contact:

    Dr. Robert Fisher
    Pacific Sleep Center
    360.397.3606

  • The Vancouver Clinic Building to Meet Needs of Community
    1/11/2010

    The Vancouver Clinic to build $12M medical office in Battle Ground.

    The Vancouver Clinic will build a new $12 million medical office building in Battle Ground in reponse to current and expected population growth in the area. Click here to read the recent article published in The Columbian and see the artist's rendering.
    Contact:

    Melody Urban
    Exeucutive Assistant
    360.397.3442

  • OB/GYN Services at Columbia Tech Center
    12/29/2009

    The OB/GYN department expands to Columbia Tech Center location.

    In keeping with our goal of being patient-focused, the OB/GYN department has expanded to our Columbia Tech Center (CTC) location in suite 230. The physicians and mid-wives in the OB/GYN department rotate at CTC, providing obstetrical and gynecolgogical services to patients on the east side of Vancouver, Camas and Washougal.

    "We're excited to be able to expand our services and care for our patients in eastern Clark County closer to home", commented Dr. Alfred Seekamp, Department Chair.

    For a list of services offered by our OB/GYN department, click here.

    Make your appointment at CTC for January today by calling 397-3470.
    Contact:

    Kathy Abramson
    Manager, OB/GYN
    360-397-3885

  • American Cancer Society Responds to Changes to USPSTF Mammography Guidelines
    11/20/2009

    The Amercian Cancer Socity guidelines will not change; annual mammography recommended for women 40 and over.

    Atlanta 2009/11/16 -November 16, 2009—The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) today announced that it is changing its guidelines for mammography and no longer recommends routine screening for women between the ages of 40 and 49. Below is a statement from Otis W. Brawley, M.D., chief medical officer, American Cancer Society.

    “
    The American Cancer Society continues to recommend annual screening using mammography and clinical breast examination for all women beginning at age 40. Our experts make this recommendation having reviewed virtually all the same data reviewed by the USPSTF, but also additional data that the USPSTF did not consider. When recommendations are based on judgments about the balance of risks and benefits, reasonable experts can look at the same data and reach different conclusions. ……

    … The USPSTF says that screening 1,339 women in their 50s to save one life makes screening worthwhile in that age group. Yet USPSTF also says screening 1,904 women ages 40 to 49 in order to save one life is not worthwhile. The American Cancer Society feels that in both cases, the lifesaving benefits of screening outweigh any potential harms. Surveys of women show that they are aware of these limitations, and also place high value on detecting breast cancer early.

    With its new recommendations, the USPSTF is essentially telling women that mammography at age 40 to 49 saves lives; just not enough of them. The task force says screening women in their 40s would reduce their risk of death from breast cancer by 15 percent, just as it does for women in their 50s. But because women in their 40s are at lower risk of the disease than women 50 and above, the USPSTF says the actual number of lives saved is not enough to recommend widespread screening. The most recent data show us that approximately 17 percent of breast cancer deaths occurred in women who were diagnosed in their 40s, and 22 percent occurred in women diagnosed in their 50s. Breast cancer is a serious health problem facing adult women, and mammography is part of our solution beginning at age 40 for average risk women."

    The Vancouver Clinic bases its practice guidelines on the recommendation of The American Cancer Society. The head of The Vancouver Clinic’s Breast Care Center imaging team, Dr. Jennifer Ochsner, commented “We continue to support annual mammographic screening for women age 40 to 49, as we agree with the American Cancer Society’s position that the lifesaving benefits outweigh any potential harm”. Dr. Ochsner completed her breast imaging fellowship at University of Washington under the mentorship of nationally renowned breast imager Dr. Contance Lehman.

    To read the complete statement by Dr. Brawley, click here.

  • The Vancouver Clinic Installs New Digital X-Ray Systems
    10/29/2009

    Versatility of The Vancouver Clinic's new digital x-ray systems keeps patients comfortable while providing high-quality images.

    When first looking at an X-ray system, flexibility and workflow enhancements may seem to be benefits for only the clinical staff. However, these efficiency improvements can impact the health and well being of the patients being imaged on the system, too.

    The Optima XR640 from GE Healthcare helps clinicians at The Vancouver Clinic clearly see theGE Optima 640 internal structure of their patients to view injuries and abnormalities and confidently prescribe the best treatment. The flexibility of the hardware components simplifies patient positioning. "Patients in wheelchairs or those with physical limitations will appreciate the speed at which we can position them for X-rays," says Dr. Howard Nelson, Department Chair for Imaging. He adds that the detector is moveable, and can be used with the wall stand or with the table, without interfering with patient positioning and comfort.

    The Optima XR640 system is digital, capturing the X-ray images on a digital detector instead of on film. As with digital consumer cameras, digital X-rays are fast and provide almost instant, high-quality patient images. What's more, the radiation dose can be lower than on film-based X-ray systems, and it eliminates the use and disposal of processing film and chemicals thus reducing our carbon footprint.

    Because it's computer driven, the digital X-ray has software tools that save doctor time and patient inconvenience while detailing anatomical structures clearly. For example, in a single sweep, it captures multiple images of long bones such as the legs or spine, and then combines them into one seamless image for easy viewing and diagnosis. Doctors find this tool useful for fracture analysis in the long bones or scoliosis studies of the spine.

    The Optima XR640 is an incredible addition to the imaging services we can provide at The Vancouver Clinic. By speeding the examination process, we enhance the productivity of our staff and physicians, while maximizing the comfort and confidence of the patient.
    Contact:

    Elise Skora
    Manager, Imaging
    360.397.3346

  • Breast Care Navigator Guides Patients Through the Breast Care Center
    10/13/2009

    Joan Wendel, RN, joins the Breast Care Center team as our Breast Care Navigator.

    As part of our specialized team in our newly opened Breast Care Center, we are pleased to introduce our Breast Care Navigator, Joan Wendel, RN. Joan will guide our patients through the often confusing path of a breast cancer diagnosis and will provide the bridge to cancer services Joan Wendel, RNfor diagnosed patients and will be part of the comprehensive team we have assembled. 

    Ms. Wendel will also provide education for our patients regarding their breast health. She wants to ensure women understand their risk factors and what testing is appropriate for each individual. Ms. Wendel is available to speak to organizations in the community regarding breast health care.

    Ms. Wendel comes to us from Manhattan Beach, CA where she was the Director of Clinical Operations for Vantage Oncology, Inc. She brings with her 13 years of experience in breast health care and a wealth of knowledge and resources.
    Contact:

    Joan Wendel, RN
    Breast Care Navigator
    360.397.2532

  • Fellowship Trained Mammographer Joins The Vancouver Clinic
    10/10/2009

    Clark County's only mammography fellowhsip trained radiologist has joined the staff of The Vancouver Clinic's Breast Care Center

    Dr. Jennifer Ochsner, the only fellowship trained breast imager in Clark County, Jennifer Ochsner, M.D.leads our Breast Care Center team. Dr. Ochsner is originally from Voorhees, New Jersey. She attended Boston University where she received her Bachelor of Science degree. She earned her medical degree from the University of Cincinnati and completed her internship in internal medicine and residency in diagnostic radiology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She completed her fellowship in women's imaging at the University of Washington under the mentorship of nationally renowned women's imager Dr. Connie Lehman.

    Dr. Ochsner has particular interest in breast MRI, interventional breast procedures and early detection of breast cancer. She knows that every patient is an individual with unique concerns. Dr. Ochsner is passionate in her commitment to provide the highest level of service and expertise that is available.
    Contact:

    Elise Skora
    Manager, Imaging
    360.397.3346

  • The Vancouver Clinic Breast Care Center Opens at 87th Avenue
    10/9/2009

    From screening to diagnosis to treatment, we have you covered.

    The Vancouver Clinic is pleased to announce the opening of our Breast Care Center under the leadership of Jennifer Ochsner, MD., Clark County's only fellowship trained mammographer.

    It is our goal to provide the highest quality and most comprehensive breast health care services available. Our fully integrated services include digital mammography (with computer aided detection), breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), stereotactic biopsy, surgical services, chemotherapy infusion, and radiation therapy.  Our combination of highly trained specialists and the very latest technology provide you with the services you may need all under our roof. Our comprehensive services shorten the time between the scary "we've found something" and a diagnosis and treatment.

    The health care professionals that make up The Vancouver Clinic's Breast Care Center team - radiologists, pathologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, primary care providers, Your Breast Care Center Teamobstetricians and gynecologists, mammographers, ultrasound technicians, medical assistants and patient services representatives - clearly exemplify the high standards of our center. We have taken breast care to the highest level by providing you with the area's most qualified and compassionate physicians and staff. Their superior level of training and experience gives you the expertise you deserve, which is exactly what you should expect from your healthcare partner.

    We are proud to have a fellowship trained mammographer who has completed specialized training in breast imaging. All of our technologists are registered in their field, reflecting our commitment to quality care.

    To schedule your screening mammogram, please call our Patient Service Center at 360 TVC-APPT (360.882.2778).
    Contact:

    Joan Wendel
    Breast Care Navigator
    360.397.2532

  • The Vancouver Clinic Adds Orthopedic Department
    9/14/2009

    The Vancovuer Clinic is proud to announce the addition of orthopedics to our comprehensive list of specialties.

    The Vancovuer Clinic is proud to announce the addition of orthopedics to our comprehensive list of specialties. With the addition of this specialty, The Vancouver Clinic now has over 200 Casey Cornelius, D.O.providers. Jaideep Iyengar, M.D.Joining the orthopedic department are Casey Cornelius, D.O., Jaideep Iyengar, M.D. and Taunya Fitzsimonds, PA-C.

    The orthopedic department is located at our Salmon Creek location in suite 140. The newly opened department is located next to the imaging suite and was designed to specifically accomodate orthopedic patients. Orthopedic patients will access the imaging suite through a connection hallway. This will allow patients to be easily transported between the two Taunya Fitzsimonds, PA-Cdepartments, when necessary.

    To schedule an appointment, please call our Patient Service Center at TVC-APPT (360.882-2778).
    Contact:

    Kathy Abramson
    Manager, Salmon Creek Specialty Care
    360.397.3885

  • 87th Avenue Clinic Celebrates Opening of New Building with Open House
    11/24/2008

    The 87th Avenue Clinic moved into our new home and we welcomed over 700 guests at our Open House.

    The 87th Avenue Clinic moved into its new home in October. In November, the community joined us at an Open House to celebrate. "Click" here to review a copy of our "inaugural brochure."  In addition, we produced a "staff brochure" reminiscent of a similar bochure that was used to celebrate the opening of the original 87th Avenue facility when six new physicians arrived to join the other 25 physcians on staff at that time.  

    Built next door to the previous Clinic, which opened in 1978, our new building is home to almost 100 providers and 21 departments. It also houses a branch of our pharmacy, an Imaging Suite (including our new PET/CT, MRI and digital radiography), physical therapy and a Special Procedures Suite. The previous building is being demolished and recycled to allow for additional parking.

    Upon entereing the new building, you will find an interactive directory. Simply touch the screen and follow the prompts to locate your provider or department.

    Over 700 of our neighbors, associates, friends and family joined us as we celebrated the opening  of our new 138,300 square foot facility.  The Vancouver Clinic invites you and your family to experience high-quality, comprehensive medical care under one roof.
    Contact:

    Melody Urban
    Executive Assistant
    360.397.3442

  • New Webcam Operational at 87th Construction Site
    6/15/2007

    A Webcam is now available allowing 24 hour visual coverage of the construction at the 87th Ave location.

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