-
2/10/2010
Ground breaking ceremony to kick off construction in Battle Ground.
The Vancouver Clinic will hold a ground breaking ceremony to kick off construction of its new 
48,000-square–foot-facility on February 17th at 12:30 p.m. at 2005 W. Main Street in Battle Ground. The new building will house the Clinic’s current Family Practice, Physical Therapy and Urgent Care departments. In addition to our current practices, we will add Internal Medicine, OB/GYN and Pediatrics, an expanded imaging suite and a lab. Mayor Caraulo will join Dr. Sharon Crowell, Board Chair, Dr. Marcia Sparling, LLC Manager’s Committee Chair and Dr. Eric Doerfler, Family Medicine Department Chair, in initiating The Vancouver Clinic’s expansion in Battle Ground.
With an anticipated completion date for the new building of fall of this year, the Clinic’s operations will continue at its current location while the new building is constructed. Once completed, demolition of the old site will occur.
The building will include two stories with a total of eight modules. Plans for the building will incorporate a number of distinctive architectural features, including a galleria. Each of the eight modules will offer a light-filled reception area just off the Clinic’s central Galleria walkway.
The Vancouver Clinic, Southwest Washington’s largest multi-specialty clinic, currently has offices at 87th Avenue, Battle Ground, Salmon Creek and Columbia Tech Center. Over 200 medical practitioners currently at the Clinic offer services in 27 medical specialties as well as a full range of ancillary and diagnostic services.
Melody Urban
Executive Assistant
360.397.3442
-
10/27/2009
In just one day, we administered 1,506 adult flu immunizations.
The Vancouver Clinic held a series of Saturday and Wednesday flu shot clinics during September and October. During that time, we administered 8055 adult seasonal flu vaccines. We also admnistered almost as many pediatric flu vaccinations. Record numbers of people are getting their flu shots this year, making flu shot vaccine a precious commodity. We do not know if or when we will recieve more seasonal flu vaccine. H1N1 (swine flu) vaccine is being distributed as it becomes available so please check this web site daily for more information on availability.
-
7/16/2009
Now it's easier and quicker than ever to schedule an appointment at The Vancouver Clinic.
"Imagine calling any organization and talking to a local person instead of a machine. Imagine getting the kind of service that makes you feel valued. That is the kind of quality medicine we at The Vancouver Clinic want to provide our patients. That is why we are now doing advanced access and soon will have centralized appointments. I would like to say "you asked and we listened" and we value you as our patient." Dr. Rob Riddle, Medical Director at The Vancouver Clinic.
The core principle of advanced access is that patients calling in to schedule a physician visit are
offered an appointment when they wish to be seen.
What it will mean at The Vancouver Clinic is that when you call in, you will be asked when you would like to be seen. Our goal is to schedule you with your provider within 72 hours. If your provider cannot accommodate you, we will offer you another provider within the department. If you wish to schedule further out, you will be scheduled on a date and time that works for you.
What is the time line for advanced access scheduling? Our primary care departments (Internal Medicine, Family Medicine and Pediatrics) began advanced access scheduling on July 13th. Our specialty care departments will be added later this year.
In coordination with the roll out of advanced access, we have created an enhanced patient service center that will, among other duties, schedule your appointments. This new service will allow you to call one number to schedule all your appointments. All of our primary care departments, Imaging and Physical Therapy are already being scheduled through the Patient Service Center. Specialty care departments will be added this fall.
What this will truly mean is that you will be able to call TVC-APPT (882-2778) and get in to see your provider when you want!
Kirsten Bracht
Manager, Operations Development
360.397.3218
-
5/18/2009
The Vancouver Clinic received the President’s Volunteer Service Award for the 736.9 hours Clinic staff members served at the Free Clinic of SW Washington.
The Vancouver Clinic received the President’s Volunteer Service Award for the 736.9 hours Clinic staff members served at the Free
Clinic of SW Washington in 2008. Of the 400 active volunteers at the Free Clinic, only fourteen individuals and one group qualified for this honor.
Dr. Gerald Bader has been a tireless advocate for the Free Clinic, recruiting the volunteer staffing for three basic health clinics every month.Thirty-nine individuals who volunteer their time will receive a silver service award pin.
About the Award
The President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation was established in 2003 to recognize the valuable contributions volunteers are making in our communities and encourage more people to serve. The Council created the President’s Volunteer Service Award program as a way to thank and honor Americans who, by their demonstrated commitment and example, inspire others to engage in volunteer service.
Recognizing and honoring volunteers sets a standard for service, encourages a sustained commitment to civic participation, and inspires others to make service a central part of their lives. The President’s Volunteer Service Award recognizes individuals, families, and groups that have achieved a certain standard – measured by the number of hours of service over a 12-month period or cumulative hours earned over the course of a lifetime.
Melody Urban
Executive Assistant
360.397.3442
-
4/28/2009
We provide the latest in mammography screening technology.
The Vancouver Clinic provides the latest in mammography screening technology. Selenia digital mammography incorporates revolutionary imaging technology that provides incredibly sharp breast images. The images appear on the technologist’s monitor in a matter of seconds, there is no waiting for film to develop, which means less time in the breast imaging suite for patients.
The Vancouver Clinic is a certified Pink Ribbon Facility, a distinction awarded only to an
elite group of healthcare facilities. By offering women digital mammograms, the facility hopes to increase the number of area women who follow recommendations for regular screenings.
Selenia digital mammography offers a number of other practical advantages and patient conveniences. Because there is no waiting for film to be developed it significantly reduces the need for repeat exams due to under or over exposure. Digital images are easily stored and transferred electronically, eliminating the dependency on one set of original films, which can be misfiled or lost in transit
Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women, exceeded only by lung cancer. Statistics indicate that one in eight women will develop breast cancer sometime in her life. The stage at which breast cancer is detected influences a woman’s chance of survival. If detected early, the five-year survival rate is 97%.
The Vancouver Clinic is committed to the fight against breast cancer. In offering digital mammography, The Vancouver Clinic provides the latest in imaging quality. If you would like to schedule a mammogram or have questions about this important breast health procedure, please call TVC-APPT (882-2778).
Elise Skora
Manager, Imaging
360.397.3746
-
4/28/2009
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported cases of the swine flu in the United States.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported cases of the swine flu in the United States. Cases have also been reported in other countries, including Mexico and Canada.
The swine flu virus is mainly spread from person to person through coughing or sneezing. Here’s what you can do to protect yourself:
- Avoid close contact with others who are sick.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners also work well.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread that way.
Swine flu is caused by a virus that infects the lungs of pigs. But under certain conditions, the virus can infect humans and spread from one person to another. You cannot get swine flu from eating pork.
Symptoms of the swine flu include a cough, sore throat, fever, body aches, chills, and extreme tiredness (fatigue). Some people have had vomiting and diarrhea. Most people have mild symptoms. But swine flu can lead to pneumonia in severe cases, and it may make other health problems worse. An infected person can infect others 1 day before symptoms start and for 7 days after getting sick. That means people can spread swine flu before they know they have it.
Doctors are using the antiviral medicines oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza) to treat people with swine flu. These medicines can prevent serious problems from the flu and help a person get well faster. The medicines work best if a person with swine flu starts to take them within 2 days after symptoms start. If you do get sick with flu-like symptoms:
- Talk to your doctor. You may need to be tested.
- Stay home from school or work to avoid infecting other people.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
For more information, go to the CDC Web site at: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu.
Wendy Lehner
Director, Medical Affairs and Quality
360.253-1258
-
3/20/2009
Breast Center Coming to The Vancouver Clinic
Rob Riddle, M.D, Medical Director, Tom Sanchez, Director of Ancillary Services and Tom VanSweringen, Executive Director, recently returned from the 19th Annual National Interdisciplinary Breast Center Conference of the National Consortium of Breast Centers, Inc. (NCBC) which was held in Las Vegas, Nevada. The focus of the conference is to bring together professional involved with breast health care from across the nation to exchange ideas and to learn about advances and new techniques in providing breast health care to patients. Conference guests learned of various methods being used by centers across the country to provide quality care to their patients. In today's dynamic health care industry, breast centers are faced with providing quality care while simultaneously keeping costs under control. Centers must be familiar with the newest styles of patient care while keeping informed of new advances in technology. Various manufacturers were on hand to share information about their new products and product lines.
As today's women are taking a more active role in understanding their treatment options, speakers addressed advances in imaging and the need to better understand breast symptoms and treatment options. Attendees learned about the advantages of a multiple modality approach to enable optimal patient care; were presented discussion on the correlation between radiology and pathology regarding breast disease; were informed about scientific evidence to support early detection and treatment in early stage cancer; and heard panelists discuss the interdisciplinary approach to the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. Digital mammography, MRI, controversies in screening; legal aspects of providing care; physician executives, genomic and proteomic research, breast biopsy techniques, breast center development, defining quality, delivering excellence, funding, billing, coding and economics were also part of the program.
Speakers emphasized the need for breast health care providers to remember that the patient is focus when providing services and care. Hundreds of breast health care professionals from across the country attended this conference.
The Clinic plans to open a full service Breast Center during the fall of 2009. The arrival of our fellowship trained/board certified breast imager in October, 2009 will be the catalyst for this new service. More information will be posted on this site as it becomes available.
Tom Sanchez
Director, Ancillary Services
360.397-5519
-
1/12/2009
The Imaging Department at The Vancouver Cinic now has one number to call to schedule an imaging study.
As part of the Imaging Department's commitment to outstanding customer service, patients can now call TVC-APPT (882-2778) to schedule an imaging study. A team of dedicated professionals will be available to take your call for all imaging exams.
The Imaging Department at The Vancouver Clinic has expanded to be able to provide for your imaging needs. We provide a wide variety of imaging studies including PET/CT, MRI, Digital Radiography, CT, Ultrasound, Mammography, Nuclear Medicine and Bone Densitometry.
The only exams that will not be scheduled through centralized imaging scheduling will be cardiac and non-cardiac nuclear medicine studies, which can be scheduled at 397-3177.
Tom Sanchez, MBA
Director, Ancillary Services
360.397.5519
-
12/2/2008
PET/CT - The most advanced imaging device for cancer management.
No more waiting until the mobile PET/CT is in the area. The Vancouver Clinic introduces a stationary Siemens PET/CT scanner at our new 87th Avenue Clinic.
Positron emission tomography (PET) is a nuclear medicine imaging technique which produces a three-dimensional image or map of functional processes in the body. PET and molecular imaging technology allow physicians to measure cell and molecular activity within the body to detect cancer, heart disease and neurological disorders.
Computed tomography (CT) is a medical imaging method employing digital geometry processing to generate a three-dimensional image of the inside of an object from a large series of two-dimensional X-ray images taken around a single axis of rotation.
PET/CT scanners combine the anatomical imaging supplied by CT with the confirmation of 
increased molecular and cellular activity, provided by PET, that may signal disease. By combining these two state of the art technologies, PET/CT scanners give physicians more diagnostic confidence while improving patient management. This scanner combines the most current PET and CT scanner technology to increase diagnostic confidence and improve patient management with faster scan times and higher-quality images. For patients this means more comfort and confidence in the treatment of their cancer and other disease states.
In oncology, PET/CT provides for early diagnosis, more accurate tumor detection and precise localization, improved biopsy sampling, and better assessment of patient responses to chemotherapy and radiation therapy. PET/CT is also used by cardiologists to detect certain types of heart disease and by neurologists for assessing disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease.
To schedule your PET/CT at a time convenient to you, please call us at 360-397-3166.
Tom Sanchez
Director, Ancillary Services
360.397.5519
-
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 87
th 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.
Melody Urban
Executive Assistant
360.397.3442
-
10/6/2008
With the addition of Same Day Services at our Battle Ground Clinic, The Vancouver Clinic now provides urgent care at all locations seven days a week.
The Vancouver Clinic is pleased to offer
Same Day Services at our
Battle Ground Clinic. Our goal is to provide services on a walk-in basis for non-emergent and after hours needs such as cold and flu symptom, strains, sprains, lacerations and minor burns.
The Same Day Services Department is staffed Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 pm, Saturdays 9:00 am to 5:00 pm to meet your urgent care needs. We are closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
No appointment is necessary.
Valerie Blum
Manager, Battle Ground
360.397.3929
-
10/2/2008
At the end of October, our 87th Avenue Clinic will be moving next door into our new building. Move dates and a map are included in this article.
During the month of October, our
87th Avenue Clinic will be moving into our new building. The first group to move, the Cardiology, Surgery, Podiatry and Urology Departments, will be moving from their current location in the Physicians Pavilion on the Southwest Washington Medical Center Campus to the new 87th Avenue Clinic on October 17th.
To assist our patients during our move, we have included our move schedule and a department layout of each of the floors in our new building. If you are visiting us during the month of October, please consult the schedule to see if your department will be in the new building the day of your appointment. We will have greeters to direct you when you enter the building.
On
October 20th, our
Cardiology, Podiatry and Surgery Departments will be located in the new building at 700 NE 87th Avenue.
On
October 25th, our
Same Day Services Department will be located in the new building.
On
October 27th, our
Coumadin Clinic, Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Nephrology, OB/GYN, Pharmacy, Physical Therapy, Pulmonology and Rheumatology Departments will be located in the new building.
On
November 3, our
Blood Draw Lab, Endocrinology, Endoscopy, Gastroentrology, Imaging, Infectious Disease, Infusion, Oncology and Pediatrics Departments will be the last group to move.
First Floor Departments:Lab Suite 160
OB/Gyn Suites 150 & 170
Pharmacy Suite 180
Radiology Suite 140
Pediatrics Suites 110 & 130
Same Day Services Suite 120
Second Floor Departments:Adult Medicine Suite 260
Cardiology Suite 210 & 230
Coumadin Clinic Suite 230
Endocrinology Suite 280
Gastroenterology Suite 280
Internal Medicine Suites 220 & 240
Nephrology Suite 270
Pulmonology Suite 250
Third Floor Departments:Infusion Suite 380
Physical Therapy Suite 350
Rheumatology Suite 350
Oncology Suite 360
Podiatry Suite 330
Special Procedures Suite Suites 320 & 340
Surgery Suite 310
Urology Suite 330
-
9/3/2008
The Vancouver Clinic is offering six Saturday Flu Shot Clinics in October and November. Make your appointment now!
Last year, The Vancouver Clinic vaccinated over 4,000 patients at our Saturday flu shot clinics. Because of overwhelming demand last year, we are adding additional clinics this year. We are offering six Saturday flu shot clinics across The Vancouver Clinic this year on the following dates:
Oct. 4
87th Avenue Clinic Oct. 11
Salmon CreekOct. 18
Columbia Tech Center Nov. 1 Salmon Creek
Nov. 8 Columbia Tech Center Nov. 15 87th Avenue Clinic
Hours of service will be 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
* We are open to the public and welcome new adult patients at any of the above clinics.
* We will bill
insurance plans with whom we contract. Self pay patients will be asked to pay $42 at the time of service.
* We will be able to offer flu vaccine to children 9 and above at our Saturday clinics (depending on insurance coverage). Please contact any of our
pediatric departments to determine if your child qualifies.
* We are hopeful that we will receive our supply of the State-sponsored flu vaccine for pediatrics in time for these Clinics. If we do, we will schedule pediatric patients at these scheduled Saturday flu shot clinics. We do not yet know when we might receive this vaccine, so please contact any one of our pediatric departments around the first of October for more up-to-date information.
* We will have FluMist available for pediatric patients receiving their vaccine from the state-sponsored supply.
* There is a special flu vaccine for pregnant patients so please contact your
obstetrician.
* Please make a reservation in advance so we can plan for staffing. To make an appointment,
please contact any of our
primary care locations or your specialist’s office.
* Walk-ins will be accepted.
* For more current information, please call our updated Flu Shot Hotline at (360) 604-1688.
Jan McAulay
Manager, Columbia Tech Center
360.397.3533
-
8/8/2008
The laboratory is one of the first nuclear cardiology laboratories in the Pacific Northwest Region to be recognized for its commitment to high quality patient care and its provision of quality diagnostic testing.
One American dies every 32 seconds of cardiovascular disease, disorders of the heart and blood vessels. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, costing society over 83.7 billion dollars each year in health services, medications and lost work time due to disability. Each year, approximately five and a half million stress nuclear cardiology studies are performed in the United States. Both the pump function and the blood flow of the heart are assessed during nuclear cardiology testing procedures. As a result, physicians are able to detect the presence of cardiovascular disease and may also discover important information regarding the occurrence of future heart attacks.
The heart is evaluated at rest and during exercise using a small amount of radioisotope during the noninvasive procedure. A complex imaging technique, nuclear cardiology testing relies on the experience and training of both the physician and the technologist. Their interpretive and technical abilities determine the diagnostic accuracy of the examination. The Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Nuclear Medicine Laboratories (ICANL) has developed an accreditation program that evaluates the quality of these and other critical elements of a nuclear cardiology laboratory.
The Vancouver Clinic Nuclear Medicine Lab was granted accreditation by the ICANL. The laboratory is one of the first nuclear cardiology laboratories in the Pacific 
Northwest Region to be recognized for its commitment to high quality patient care and its provision of quality diagnostic testing. Dr. Ming-Jei Chang, the Nuclear Medicine Laboratory Medical Director for The Vancouver Clinic, oversees the lab and works with the Cardiologists and certified technicians to assure they maintain the standards of the ICANL. In our lab, all cardiologists who interpret these studies are board certified in Cardiovascular Disease, Echocardiography and Nuclear Cardiology.
The ICANL was established with the support of the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology, the Society of Nuclear Medicine, the Society of Nuclear Medicine Technologist Section, the American College of Cardiology, the American College of Nuclear Physicians and the Academy of Molecular Imaging (formerly known as the Institute for Clinical PET). The ICANL provides a peer review mechanism to encourage and recognize the provision of quality nuclear cardiology and nuclear medicine diagnostic evaluations by a process of voluntary accreditation. A non-profit organization, the ICANL is dedicated to ensuring high quality patient care and to promoting health care.
Participation in the accreditation process is voluntary. Accreditation status signifies that the facility has been reviewed by an independent agency that recognizes the laboratory's commitment to quality testing for the diagnosis of heart disease.
For more information on these and other services please call The Vancouver Clinic Cardiology Department at (360) 397-3177.
Laurie Kinonen
Manager, 87th Specialty Care
397-3177
-
8/8/2008
The laboratory is one of the first one thousand echocardiography labs in the U.S. to be so recognized for its commitment to high quality patient care and its provision of quality diagnostic testing.
One American dies every 32 seconds of cardiovascular disease, disorders of the heart and blood vessels. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, costing society over 83.7 billion dollars each year in health services, medications and lost work time due to disability. Cardiac structure and flow information provided by echocardiographic and nuclear medicine are useful in the detection and management of many types of heart disease. This noninvasive test has become one of the standard diagnostic tools in cardiology with an estimated 10 million echocardiograms performed annually in the United States. Echocardiology is a complex imaging technique that relies on the experience and training of both the physician and sonographer. Their interpretive and technical abilities determine the diagnostic accuracy of an echocardiographic examination. The Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Echocardiology Laboratories (ICAEL) has developed an accreditation program which evaluates the quality of these and other critical elements of an echocardiology laboratory.
The Vancouver Clinic located in Vancouver, WA was granted accreditation by the ICEAL. The laboratory is one of the first one thousand echocardiography labs in the U.S. to be so recognized for its commitment to high quality patient care and its provision of quality diagnostic testing. Dr.
Michael Cooper, the Echocardiology Laboratory Medical Director for The Vancouver Clinic, oversees the lab and works with the Cardiologists and technicians to assure they maintain the standards of the ICAEL.
The ICAEL was established with the support of the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE), the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and the Society of Pediatric Echocardiography (SOPE) to provide a peer review mechanism to encourage and recognize the provision of quality echocardiographic diagnostic evaluations by a process of voluntary accreditation. A non-profit organization, the ICAEL is dedicated to ensuring high quality patient care and to promoting health care.
Participation in the accreditation program is voluntary. Accreditation status signifies that the facility has been reviewed by an independent agency which recognizes the laboratory’s commitment to quality testing for the diagnosis of heart disease.
For more information on these and other services please call The Vancouver Clinic Cardiology Department at (360) 397-3177.
Laurie Kinonen
Manager, Cardiology
360.397.3117
-
7/7/2008
The Vancouver Clinic at Salmon Creek is happy to provide Family Physicians Group patients and their families with quality, convenient health care.
The recent announcement by Family Physicians Group regarding closing their Salmon Creek office has left some patients without a convenient location to receive their health care. The Vancouver Clinic at Salmon Creek is happy to provide Family Physicians Group patients and their families with quality, convenient health care. To schedule an appointment with one of our providers, please all 397-3860. For more urgent needs, our Same Day Services Clinic is open
on a walk-in basis from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekends and holidays.
The Vancouver Clinic offers a full range of onsite services including radiology, laboratory, pharmacy and physical therapy at our Salmon Creek location. We are a multi-specialty Clinic with many of our specialty physicians providing services at Salmon Creek. For a more detailed listing of our services,
please click here.
Valerie Blum
Manager, Salmon Creek Primary Care
360.397.3929
-
6/2/2008
Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR).
The Vancouver Clinic Radiology Department has been awarded program accredit
ation in Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) as the result of a recent survey by the American College of Radiology (ACR).
The ACR, headquartered in Reston, VA, awards accreditation to facilities for the achievement of high practice standards after a peer-review evaluation of the practice. Evaluations are conducted by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. They assess the qualifications of the personnel and the adequacy of facility equipment. The surveyors report their findings to the ACR’s Committee on Accreditation, which subsequently provides the practice with a comprehensive report.
The ACR is a national organization serving more than 32,000 diagnostic and interventional
radiologists, radiation oncologists, and nuclear medicine and medical physicists with programs focusing on the practice of medical imaging and radiation oncology and the delivery of comprehensive health care services.
A computed tomography (CT) scan uses x-rays to make detailed pictures of structures inside of the body. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a test that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to make pictures of organs and structures inside the body. MRI also may show problems that cannot be seen with other imaging methods.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 360.397.3616
Kim Schwab
Manager Radiology
360.397.3655
-
5/28/2008
We are proud to have the only neurologists in the area who are board certified in both Neurology and Electrodiagnostic Medicine.
The Vancouver Clinic is pleased to announce that Dr. Steven Day and Dr. Alexander Krob have been awarded the status of "Diplomate of The American Board of Electrodia
gnostic Medicin
e." We are proud to have the only neurologists in the area who are board certified in both Neurology and Electrodiagnostic Medicine.
Electrodiagnostic medicine is the medical subspecialty that applies neurophysiologic techniques to diagnose, evaluate, and treat patients with impairments of the neurologic, neuromuscular, and/or muscular systems.
Qualified practitioners require knowledge in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology (how the body moves and functions), histology, and pathology of the brain, spinal cord, autonomic nerves, cranial nerves, peripheral nerves, neuromuscular junction, and muscles. They must know clinical features and treatment of diseases of the central, peripheral, and autonomic nervous systems, as well as those of neuromuscular junction and muscle.
For more information and/or a referral, please contact the Neurology Department at 360.397.3960.
Kathy Abramson, Manager Specialty Care Salmon Creek
360.397.3885
-
5/1/2008
May is National High Blood Pressure Education Month.
May is National High Blood Pressure Education Month. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is pervasive in our country, with an estimated 72 million Americans (one in three adults) suffering from the disease. While this statistic is startling in itself, what is even more troubling is the fact that a full third of those affected with the disease don't even know. For this reason, hypertension is referred to as the silent killer.
Left uncontrolled, high blood pressure can lead to heart disease, heart attack, stroke, kidney failure and blindness. Heart disease and stroke are the first and third leading causes of death for men and women in the United States, accounting for more than 35% of all deaths. And while these largely preventable conditions are more common among older adults, over 17% of Americans who died of cardiovascular disease are younger than age 65. Heart disease and stroke also are among the leading causes of disability in the U.S. workforce; nearly one million people are disabled from strokes alone.
There is some good news, though. First, screening for high blood pressure is easy, painless and inexpensive. Second, simple lifestyle changes may lower or prevent high blood pressure. Healthy habits--such as managing weight, choosing healthy foods and avoiding salt and alcohol--are beneficial and easily incorporated into your lifestyle. Remember to schedule your physicals and keep an eye on your blood pressure.
References and resources:
Cnters for Disease Control and Prevention www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/publications/AAG/dhdsp.htm
Contact Your Primary Care Physician
360.397.1500
-
4/30/2008
Dr. Paul Kretschmar died suddenly at his home on Saturday, April 26.
On Saturday, April 26, The Vancouver Clinic lost a long-time member of our team when Dr. Paul Kretschmar died suddenly at his home. The providers and staff at The Vancouver Clinic will miss his smile, easy manner and dedication to his patients.
Dr. Kretschmar came to the Clinic in October of 1960 and has been seeing patients in the Internal Medicine Department ever since. Even though he cut back on his work hours, he still had a full schedule when he was in the Clinic. He often saw patients that couldn't be squeezed into his partners' full schedules.
Dr. Kretschmar was an excellent practitioner with great diagnostic skills, but what his patients really appreciated about his style was that he became a part of their lives and knew their family histories. He also took the time to know his staff and was well-loved by all. His passing will leave an empty spot in our Clinic and, more importantly, in our hearts.
Tom VanSweringen
Executive Director
360.253.1419
-
4/25/2008
Dr. Duane Webb, Karina Bethje, RN and Tom VanSweringen joined the Hope for Haiti Foundation (HFHF) on a mission to bring medical care to villagers living in the remote mountain areas of Haiti.
In January of this year Dr. Duane Webb, Karina Bethje, RN and Tom VanSweringen joined the Hope for Haiti Foundation (HFHF) on a mission to bring medical care to villagers living in the remote mountain areas of Haiti. HFHF is a nonprofit, nondenominational organization founded in 1999 by Jean Elade Eloi (Elade), a Haitian American living in Frederick, MD, for the purpose of bringing aid to his home town of Zorange in Haiti. Elade's father moved the family to the U.S. when Elade was a child but he feels a sense of duty to the place of his birth and has created this organization to provide assistance.
The purpose of the foundation is to provide medical, educational, spiritual, and environmental aid
to the people of Haiti. As Elade puts it,
"Changing a nation, one life at a time". HFHF has built a school / clinic in Zorange and employs full-time teachers and nurses to staff them. The Haitian teachers are aided by U. S. teachers who rotate through on a regular basis. HFHF is working There are plans to have dedicated teams going down throughout the year to deal with cataracts, dental problems and other specific diseases or medical problems.
For seven of the past eight years, a medical team has made the journey to Zorange, a mountain village located 75 miles southwest of the capital of Port-au-Prince. The original team consisted of 15 people. This year, 110 people including 2 physicians, 1 physician assistant, 9 nurses, 4 medical assistants and 1 EMT made the trip. Patients travel to the clinic by foot, donkey or
horse from the surrounding villages, some of them traveling for days to seek treatment. This year the team saw 1885 patients over a 3-day period. The conditions treated most often are hypertension, wound infections, and infectious diseases including worms, ringworm, bronchitis, and cellulitis. Intestinal parasites are rampant and malnutrition is often a problem, particularly in infants and children. Occasionally, the medical providers see conditions never, or rarely, seen in their every day practices such as Pinta (a bacterial infection presenting with white spots on the skin that look like Vitiligo) and Tetanus (presenting with locked jaw).
The clinic is staffed year-round by three Haitian nurses who follow up with the patients seen by the medical team. The clinic and team receive medical supplies through foundations that supply non-profit organizations. Funds for these supplies come from private donations and fund raising events such as the North Carolina Golf Tournament held every April.
When asked how he became involved and why, Dr. Webb replied "
I had done previous medical missions with other organizations before I learned about the Hope for Haiti Foundation, primarily out of a sense of civic duty. This is my sixth year with HFHF and, as the current lead physician, I am very much impressed with their overall vision and
sense of propriety. It is a great educational opportunity for medical students, one of whom is my daughter. Nursing students and other health care providers in training also attend. We have many who come back year after year as I have."
For more information on the Hope for Haiti Foundation, you can visit their website at:
www.HopeForHaitiFoundation.com
Tom VanSweringen
Executive Director
360.253.1419
-
3/13/2008
The Pacific Sleep Center NW located at The Vancouver Clinic Columbia Tech Center receives American Academy of Sleep Medicine Accreditation.
The Pacific Sleep Center NW recently received program accreditation from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM). AASM is a professional medical society for clinicians, researchers, and other health care providers in the field of sleep medicine. As the national accrediting body for sleep disorders centers and labs, the AASM is dedicated to setting standards and promoting excellence in sleep medicine heath care, education and research.
“The AASM congratulates Pacific Sleep Center NW, on fulfilling the high standards required for receiving program accreditation,” said Alejandro Chediak, MD, AASM president. “The facility is a significant resource to the local medical community and will provide academic and scientific value in addition to the highest quality care for patients suffering from sleep disorders.”
To receive a five-year accreditation, a sleep center must meet or exceed all standards for professional health care as designated by the AASM. The accreditation process involves detailed inspection of a center’s facility and staff, including an evaluation of testing procedures, patient contacts, and physician training. Additionally, the facility’s goals must be clearly stated and include plans for positively affecting the quality of medical care in the community it serves.
The Pacific Sleep Center NW offers exceptionally fast, high-quality sleep studies and sales of appropriate medical equipment. We average just 10 days from diagnosis through titration study and starting on home equipment. We pride ourselves on superior follow-up, leading to better outcomes for our patients. Our Medical Director, Dr. Robert Fisher, is certified in sleep medicine by the Amercian Board of Internal Medicine. All our sleep studies are read by AASM certified physicians.
Patients enjoy sleep testing in a comfortable bedroom setting with full-
size “real” beds and “real” home-style furnishings in our 10-bed state-of-the-art facility. We offer attended overnight sleep studies including diagnostic, split night, and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)/bi-level titration studies. We also offer un-attended home diagnostic sleep studies for patients with a clinical suspicion of sleep apnea who do not have co-morbidity risk factors.
Pacific Sleep Center NW is located at 501 SE 172nd Avenue, Suite 220. For more information, call (360) 397-3606.
Jan McAulay
Manager, Columbia Tech Center
360.397.3533
-
2/4/2008
Our Online Appointment Scheduling tool has been expanded to offer appointment cancellation service.
It’s Saturday afternoon, you have just found out that you have to be in California next week and need to cancel your doctor’s appointment next Wednesday. Can you do it now while you’re thinking about it? Sure, just go online:
www.thevancouverclinic.comOur Online Appointment Scheduling tool has been expanded to offer appointment cancellation service.
All Online Cancellation requests must be submitted at least one business day prior to your appointment date. Simply fill out the cancellation form online and include your appointment date, time, and the name of your physician. One of our schedulers will then follow up you within one business day.
Now you can leave on your trip knowing that you have let us know you won’t be able to make your appointment. Please remember to let us know at least one business day before your scheduled appointment date.
On our website, click on the appointment scheduling tool and choose cancellation.
Holly Williams
Operations Development Manager
360.397.3218
-
1/3/2008
Our new nuclear camera provides a spectacular level of diagnostic detail, showing how the body is functioning at the metabolic level.
"Nuclear imaging helped my doctor see more diagnostic information and that made a positive impact on the decisions about my care."
Our new nuclear camera, The BrightView by Philips, provides a spectacular level of diagnostic
detail, showing how a part of the body is functioning at the metabolic level. This advanced visualization helps to enhance diagnostic confidence, leading us to more informed decisions about your care. Nuclear imaging can be a crucial difference-maker, from ruling out or establishing early detection of a condition, to more accurately evaluating or preparing treatment options.
The new camera is built with an open gantry system that makes it feel less confining. The new technology moves detectors closer, acquiring information with unprecedented precision and efficiency, with less noise than other cameras.
Along with cardiac studies, the camera allows us to do a wide range of nuclear studies including bone, brain, renal, liver, thyroid, multigated acquisition scan (MUGA), hepatobilliary ininodiacetice acid (HIDA) and infection.
For more information about how we're enhancing patient care with nuclear imaging, please contact us at 397-3177.
Laurie Kinonen
Manager, Cardiology
360.397.3116
-
12/14/2007
Online requests for prescription refills through The Vancouver Clinic now available.
Did you know you can now request prescription refills from all The Vancouver Clinic pharmacies through this website? On our home page choose the Specialties tab, on the Specialties page click on Pharmacy Services, on the Pharmacy Services page click on the photo on the right and you will be directed to a form requesting information on your prescription. Or simply click here.
After you have filled out the form, please allow one business day for your prescription request to be filled. If we need to contact your provider for additional refills, please allow three business days.
Your prescription may be picked up at the 87th Avenue Pharmacy Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., the Columbia Tech Center Pharmacy Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., or the Salmon Creek Pharmacy Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Brett Windsor
Director, Ancillary Services
360.397.3253
-
11/28/2007
We value your privacy! To ensure confidentiality, we are using pagers to alert you that it is time to proceed to the exam room.
We value your privacy! To ensure confidentiality, we are using pagers to alert you that it is time to proceed to the exam room. The Vancouver Clinic has recently introduced this concept to the Same Day Services departments at 87th Avenue, Columbia Tech Center and Salmon Creek.
When you check-in you will be given a small pager that will alert you when your medical assistant is ready to take you to a room. These pagers have a limited range, but will allow you a degree of movement within the facility.
When the medical assistant is ready to meet with you, your pager will light up and vibrate gently. You will then take it to the Patient Service Representative or Medical Assistant at the check-in area and be shown to the exam room.
Your comfort and privacy are important to us. We believe this is one more way to provide improved service to you!
Valerie Blum
Manager, Same Day Services Salmon Creek
360.397.3929
-
10/30/2007
The Vancouver Clinic just completed a series of successful Saturday flu shot clinics at our 4 locations.
The Vancouver Clinic just completed a series of successful Saturday flu shot clinics at our 4 locations -- Salmon Creek, 87th Avenue, Battle Ground and Columbia Tech Center. We provided vaccinations for nearly 4,000 patients across Clark County.
We are very pleased with the success of these clinics, and excited to be able to offer this service to our patients. The response from our patients who attended the Saturday clinics has been overwhelmingly positive. Wait times were as short as four minutes. The longest wait times were always first thing in the morning, as many patients chose to come as we opened. After the initial rush cleared by 9 a.m., there were minimal waits throughout the rest of the day, and the patients moved smoothly through our processes.
We look forward to expanding and improving this service next year. If you have comments about the Saturday flu clinics, or suggestions on how to make it better, please contact us at thevancouverclinic.com. And, if you missed a flu shot clinic, there is still ample vaccine available. Just call your doctor's office.
Customer Service
360.397.1740
-
10/1/2007
Same Day Services for non-emergent and after hours needs now open at Columbia Tech Center.
Same Day Services has expanded to our
Columbia Tech Center clinic. This expansion provides our patients access to
Same Day Services at three of our locations. Our goal is to provide non-emergent and after hours needs for cold and flu symptoms, strains, sprains, lacerations and minor burns on a walk-in basis.
Same Day Services hours of operations are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday, Sunday and holidays from 9:00 a.m.to 5:00 p.m.. We are closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. The Same Day Services department at CTC is located in Suite 130, across from the Pharmacy.
Jan McAulay
Manager, CTC
360.397.3533
-
9/28/2007
Using our new Online Appointment Scheduling tool, you can request an appointment online.
Now it’s easier than ever to schedule an appointment with The Vancouver Clinic. Using our new Online Appointment Scheduling tool, you can request an appointment online and our schedulers will call you within one business day to confirm a date and time with you. Simply fill out the short form indicating the day and time (morning or afternoon) that works best for you and tell us how to reach you and we will call you to schedule your appointment within one business day. Online appointment requests must be submitted at least two business days prior to your desired appointment date. Our Same Day Services Department is always available on a walk-in basis for your urgent needs.
Holly Williams
Manager, Operations Development
360.397.3218
-
9/14/2007
The Vancouver Clinic is sponsoring an on-site flu shot clinic each Saturday during the month of October.
Flu season is just around the corner and anyone can be a potential target. Your best protection against the debilitating effects of this virus is to get a flu shot. For this reason, The Vancouver Clinic is sponsoring an on-site flu shot drive each Saturday during the month of October.
The flu vaccine is 75-90% effective in preventing infection. Contrary to a popular myth, you cannot get the flu from the vaccine since it is made from highly purified egg grown viruses that have been rendered non-infectious. Even if you received a flu shot last year, you still need to receive another one this year to remain protected. As with any vaccine, the flu vaccine has some side effects. Less than 1/3 of those who receive a flu shot will experience some soreness at the vaccination site, and only 5-10% will suffer mild side effects such as low-grade fevers and headaches.
October and November are the optimal months for flu vaccination. So if you want to be sure you’re healthy for the holidays or that much-awaited vacation, don’t leave it up to chance. Pediatric patients and pregnant women should contact their healthcare providers to receive information about delivery dates of their vaccines.
Please call your physician’s office and reserve the Saturday and location you would like to receive your flu shot. (Dates and locations are listed below.) This will help us prepare for your arrival. All locations are open to the public, everyone is welcome. You may go to any location for your shot.
If you are not able to make these Saturday dates, please contact your primary care provider’s office to make alternate arrangements.
October 6 Salmon Creek
October 13 87th Avenue
October 20 Columbia Tech Center
October 27 Battle Ground
Jan McAulay
Manager, Columbia Tech Center
360.397.3533
-
8/17/2007
The Vancouver Clinic expands its services by opening a new Allergy and Immunology Clinic at our Salmon Creek location.
The Vancouver Clinic is pleased to announce the opening of our new Allergy & Immunology Service. Drs. Andrew H. Greenhill and Renganathan (Raj) Srinivasan will be providing their services at our Salmon Creek location.
Dr. Greenhill received his Doctor of Medicine degree from Yale School of Medicine and completed his fellowship in Allergy/Clinical Immunology at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C.
Dr. Srinivasan received his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago and completed a fellowship in Allergy/Immunology at the University of Rochester.
The Allergy and Immunology Clinic offers comprehensive management of allergic, asthmatic and immunologic disorders in children and adults. They also offer allergy skin testing, testing for asthma and allergy injections.
Our Allergy and Immunology Clinic can be reached at 360.397.3980.
Kathy Abramson
Manager, Salmon Creek Specialty Care
360.3973885
-
8/10/2007
The Vancouver Clinic is excited to announce the arrival of Neurologists Dr. H. Alexander Krob and Dr. Steven Day at our Salmon Creek location.
The Vancouver Clinic is excited to announce the arrival of Dr. H. Alexander Krob and Dr. Steven Day, Neurologists at our Salmon Creek location.
Dr. Krob comes to us from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill where he did his fellowship in neuromuscular disorders and EMG nerve conduction techniques. He also served as a clinical instructor.
Dr. Day completed a fellowship in clinical neurophysiology with an emphasis on EMG and neuromuscular disease at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
The Neurology Clinic provides full consultations for diagnosis and/or treatment of neurological conditions and electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies. Please call (360) 397-3960 to schedule appointments. Some insurance plans require a referral before seeing a specialist.
Kathy Abramson
Manager, Specialty Care Salmon Creek
360.397.3885
-
8/6/2007
The Same Day Services at Salmon Creek is now open 8 am to 8 pm Monday through Friday and 8 am to 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday.
We are pleased to announce the expansion of our Same Day Services at Salmon Creek to include mornings during the week. Since opening in January of 2007, Same Day Services has been well received by the community. We look forward to being available to meet your needs by extending our hours. Our goal is to provide services on a walk-in basis for non-emergent and after hours needs such as cold and flu symptoms, strains, sprains, lacerations and minor burns. The Clinic is open Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. No appointment is necessary. Same Day Services is located in Suite 150, directly across form the pharmacy, at Salmon Creek and can be reached by phone at 360.397.3970.
Valerie Blum
Manager Primary Care Salmon Creek
360.397.3929
-
7/19/2007
The Vancouver Clinic recognized as third largest building project in SW Washington in 2007.
Every year the Vancouver Business Journal recognizes the top building projects in Southwest Washington. This year, The Vancouver Clinic was recognized as the third largest building project in Southwest Washington.
The new building being constructed to replace the current Clinic located at 700 NE 87th Avenue
will be a three-story, 137,200 square-foot facility that will have room for approximately 80 providers and their support staff. Our multi-specialty Clinic will include: Cardiology, Endocrinology, Gastroenterology, Infectious Disease, Internal Medicine, Interventional Radiology, Nephrology, OB/GYN, Occupational Medicine, Oncology, Pediatrics, Physical Therapy, Pulmonology, Rheumatology, Surgery, Urology and a Same Day Services Clinic. We will also have a state of the art Imaging Suite, Infusion Center, Lab and Pharmacy.
The new building being constructed to replace the current Clinic located at 700 NE 87th Avenue will be a three-story, 137,200 square-foot facility that will have room for approximately 80 providers and their support staff. Our multi-specialty Clinic will include: Cardiology, Endocrinology, Gastroenterology, Infectious Disease, Internal Medicine, Interventional Radiology, Nephrology, OB/GYN, Occupational Medicine, Oncology, Pediatrics, Physical Therapy, Pulmonology, Rheumatology, Surgery, Urology and a Same Day Services Clinic. We will also have a state of the art Imaging Suite, Infusion Center, Lab and Pharmacy.
The newest Clinic, scheduled to open in fall of 2008, will be similar in design to the Clinics at Columbia Tech Center and Salmon Creek. The Clinic at Columbia Tech Center was #14 in the Top Projects for Southwest Washington in 2004 and the Salmon Creek Clinic was #5 in 2005.
Thomas C. VanSweringen
Executive Director
360.253.1419
-
7/15/2007
At The Vancouver Clinic we not only care about your health, we care about the health of our environment.
The Vancouver Clinic Facilities Department is going "green". Over the new two months, we are transitioning to Green Seal Certified cleaning products at all of our locations. These products are less offensive to people and the environment and allow the cleaning staff to reduce the number of chemical products we use.
The Facilities Department has already implemented some other "green" practices which include the following:
* Paper and container recycling was expanded last year.
* Paper products that meet U.S. EPA guidelines for recycled and recovered fiber content are used in the Clinic restrooms.
* Microfiber technology is used for mopping and wiping to reduce paper towel waste and chemical use and to improve cleaning.
* Energy-saving light bulbs were recently installed in all the waiting room lamps.
* The number of courier vans was decreased from three to two to reduce gasoline consumption.
We are continuing to find ways to become more environmentally friendly.
Mike Uphoff
Manager, Facilities
360.604.1684
-
6/28/2007
The Vancouver Clinic is pleased to announce our providers are participating in the First Choice Health Network effective July 1, 2007.
The Vancouver Clinic is pleased to announce our providers are participating in the First Choice Health Network effective July 1, 2007. This health plan has nearly 1 million members in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Alaska and Montana. If you are authorized to receive health care services through the First Choice Health Network the member ID card you received from your health plan will have a First Choice Health logo. If you have questions about whether your health plan participates in the First Choice Health Network, please call your health planÂÂs member services department for more information.
Patient Accounts
360.253.1270
-
6/25/2007
Beginning mid-August, pediatricians at The Vancouver Clinic will be participating in a research study of an investigational vaccine for Streptococcus Pneumoniae, which is the leading cause of meningitis and severe invasive pneumococcal disease in infants and children.
Beginning mid-August, pediatricians at The Vancouver Clinic will be participating in a research study of an investigational vaccine for Streptococcus Pneumoniae for healthy infants who are 6 to 14 weeks of age.
Streptococcus pneumoniae is a type of bacterium (germ) which is the leading cause of meningitis (disease of the brain and spinal cord) and severe invasive pneumococcal disease (bloodstream infections) in infants and children. It also causes ear infections, pneumonia and sinusitis. A vaccine known as Prevnar is licensed and recommended for all babies in the United States as part of the recommended immunization schedule. Prevnar helps to protect against severe disease caused by 7 types of the bacterium (germ), Streptococcus Pneumonia, but there are other strains of the bacteria that are not covered effectively with the current Prevnar vaccine.
The purpose of this vaccine study is to test an investigational vaccine that expands the coverage of Prevnar to 13 types of the bacterium. One out of seven babies who participate will receive Prevnar, and six out of seven will receive the investigational vaccine in addition to other recommended vaccinations. The vaccine each baby receives will be decided randomly. The investigational vaccine does not contain live bacteria, so children cannot get pneumonia, pneumococcal disease, or other infectious diseases from receiving the investigational vaccine.
A very important part of the study will be to evaluate the level of immune response to the study vaccines, by measuring antibody levels in the blood. Antibodies are proteins that protect against infection. This will be done by two small (about 1 tsp) blood draws at age 7 and 13 months. The study will also review and compare reactions to the two vaccines, by asking parents to complete an electronic diary card after each vaccination. As with any vaccine, there may be redness, swelling or soreness at the site of the shot, or a brief fever.
For all infants enrolled in this study the well baby/study visits at 2, 4, 6 and 12 months, blood draws, and all study vaccines will be provided at no cost to the family. To be enrolled, babies must be healthy, age two months at the time of enrollment, and available for the entire study period (approximately 17 months). Babies may not be enrolled if they have had previous pneumococcal vaccine; allergic reaction to any vaccine; prolonged bleeding conditions, immune deficiency, congenital malformation, serious chronic disorders, or a history of seizures.
For more details about this study, contact Marci Black, RN, in the Research Department at (360) 253-3294.
Marci Black, RN
Research Coordinator
360.253.3294
-
6/15/2007
A Webcam is now available allowing 24 hour visual coverage of the construction at the 87th Ave location.
-
5/21/2007
C-Tran now stops on 172nd Avenue in front of The Vancouver Clinic.
C-Tran has added a stop on 172nd Avenue in front of The Vancouver Clinic. Patients and employees who ride the bus can now take route # 30 directly to The Vancouver Clinic at Columbia Tech Center. For more information on C-Tran, please visit their web page at
www.c-tran.com.
Jan McAulay
Manager, Columbia Tech Center
360.397.3533
-
5/9/2007
The Vancouver Clinic (TVC), in partnership with Southwest Washington Medical Center (SWMC) and the McKesson Corporation, has today completed the first known instance of Electronic Medical Information sharing in Southwest Washington.
The Vancouver Clinic (TVC), in partnership with Southwest Washington Medical Center (SWMC) and the McKesson Corporation, has today completed the first known instance of Electronic Medical Information sharing in Southwest Washington. Known as Dicom Query Retrieve (DQR), the electronic link allows both institutions to request and instantly receive copies of diagnostic images (e.g. x-rays, mammograms, CT’s, MRI’s and ultrasounds) taken from the respective facilities to assist in providing timely patient care for shared patients.
Patients who stay in SWMC often have a long term relationship with a physician employed by TVC, with whom they will receive ongoing care after their discharge from SWMC. Many patients will undergo diagnostic imaging tests while they are in the hospital, which will be stored in SWMC’s Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS). Once the patient is discharged, their primary care physician will often request follow up studies that will then be stored in TVC’s PACS and interpreted by Radiologists at The Vancouver Clinic. Gaining access to those prior studies acquired at the hospital for comparison to the new studies is a crucial factor in providing timely and effective patient care.
Until today, a TVC physician would fill out a paper request to be sent to the TVC Radiology Department file room. The file room would then fax a paper request to the SWMC file room. SWMC would locate the study, load it onto a DVD and return it to TVC where it would be loaded in the TVC PACS system. This process would usually take at least two days and often longer. These delays unnecessarily delayed the interpretation of the study for the patient.
According to Brett Windsor, Director of Ancillary Services at TVC, “The new link is essentially a secure data connection between the two sites that allows each organization to directly access the others PACS systems. This allows each institution to locate studies that are needed in order to provide Radiologists the ability to compare studies when performing an interpretation. The process involves just a few clicks of the mouse and transfers the appropriate study over within mere minutes of the request
The technology allows the individual physician, with the provision of a specific workstation, to directly request studies that are needed for the care of a patient currently in the office. Mr. Windsor states, “This is an incredibly significant development as it allows the physician to provide real time care to their patients, eliminating numerous phone calls and most importantly, time delays imposed by the old system
Dr Scott Carleton, Lead Radiologist at TVC, understands firsthand the incredible significance of the new connection. “This development can simply not be understated in terms of its importance to patient care. Where yesterday we literally had to put studies aside for three days while we waited for prior studies for comparison, we can now interpret these studies immediately and get the results back to the referring physician who is waiting for the results to make important decisions about treatment.
The Vancouver Clinic is hopeful of expanding Dicom Query Retrieve to include other health care systems in Clark County. Mr. Windsor states, “Discussions are ongoing and we believe it is ultimately the patient who will benefit from our ability to access common health information. We will endeavor to expand this program to include as many health care providers as possible. There is no question that this is good for patients and good for their physicians. We are certainly proud to be the first to achieve this goal and we’re proud to partner with SWMC.”
Brett Windsor
Director, Ancillary Services
360.397.3253
-
4/16/2007
We are pleased to announce the expansion of our Same Day Services at Salmon Creek to include Sundays
We are pleased to announce the expansion of our Same Day Services at Salmon Creek to include Sundays. Since opening in January of 2007, Same Day Services has been well received by the community. We look forward to being available to meet your needs on Sundays. Our goal is to provide services on a walk-in basis for non-emergent and after hours needs such as cold and flu symptoms, strains, sprains, lacerations and minor burns. The Clinic is staffed by a physician, registered nurse, medical assistant and patient service representative Monday through Friday Noon to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. No appointment is necessary. Same Day Services is located in Suite 150, directly across form the pharmacy, at Salmon Creek and can be reached by phone at 360.397.3970.
Valerie Blum
Manager, Primary Care Salmon Creek
360.397.3929
-
3/28/2007
On March 28th, The Vancouver Clinic broke ground on the new 87th Avenue building slated to open in the fall of 2008.
On March 28th, The Vancouver Clinic broke ground on the new 87th Avenue building slated to open in the fall of 2008. Members of the City Council, press and the local health care community joined us as we celebrated the beginning of construction with a ground breaking ceremony at lunch time.
Dr. Rastall, Chair Board of Directors, welcomed visitors, providers and staff. Tom VanSweringen, Executive Director, introduced the team from The Neenan Company that designed and will oversee the construction project. Dr. Kovaric, Chair LLC Managers Committee, reminisced about the closet he worked in when he first joined the Clinic.
Then came the big moment when Dr. Kovaric, Dr. Carleton, Dr. Reis, Dr. Rastall and Tom
VanSweringen dug in their shovels and began the construction of the new building. The building will be similar in style to the buildings at Columbia Tech Center and Salmon Creek with three stories instead of two. The additional space will allow the Cardiology and Surgery departments to move from the Pavilion to the 87th Avenue Clinic once again. For more information, see the news article published on
August 28th Growing Again - New 87th Avenue Building Planned.
Tom VanSweringen
Executive Director
360.253.1419
-
3/1/2007
The Vancouver Clinic CT technology upgrade provides state-of-the-art care for prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease.
The Vancouver Clinic continues to demonstrate its commitment to the very best levels of patient care with its recent decision to upgrade its Computed Tomography Scanner (CT) to a technology currently at the forefront of the industry - the 64 detector CT scanner.
In partnership with Philips Medical Systems, The Clinic was able to upgrade its capabilities on March 1, 2007. The decision provides for important advancements in patient care, particularly in the area of Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA). This new technology provides advanced CT angiography techniques including quantitative assessment and volume-rendered display for early, accurate diagnosis. CT Angiography (CTA) is a minimally-invasive, primary imaging technique for detecting diseases ranging from renal artery stenosis to neurovascular disorders. Diagnostically, CTA is non-invasive and cost-effective, requiring one-third the time necessary for intra-arterial angiography.
The 64 detector scanner in particular reduces the amount of radiation exposure to patients by decreasing the amount of time they are in the scanner. This scanner allows a full picture of the heart to be taken in one revolution, which allows the complete heart scan can to be completed with a breath hold of only 5-6 seconds.
According to the American Heart Association, more than 910,000 Americans die of heart disease annually, making it the number one cause of death in the United States. The 64 detector CT is an emerging tool capable of detecting heat disease in its very early stages. The Vancouver Clinic remains committed to utilizing the best and most proven methods to provide the highest possible levels of care to all patients.
David Savelesky
Manager Imaging
360.397.3655
-
2/15/2007
Tom Siergey, Physician Recruiter for The Vancouver Clinic elected as President of the Northwest Staff Physician Recruiters.
Tom Siergey, Physician Recruiter for The Vancouver Clinic recently 
received the prestigious honor of being elected by his fellow recruiters as the President of the Northwest Staff Physician Recruiters (NWSPR). NWSPR is a regional group consisting of in-house physician recruiters from Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana and Wyoming. They are a sub-set group of the Association of Staff Physician Recruiters. The group was formed for networking purposes and to share information. The mission of NWSPR is the same as the ASPR’s but more Northwest focused. Tom’s role as President will be setting the agenda, convening and presiding over monthly conference calls, the NWSPR annual meeting and Executive Committee. The President shall also assist planning and implementation of educational programs for the organization.
The NWSPR is committed to providing assistance to peers sharing similar recruiting challenges. Through networking and educational development recruiters learn from each other and approach physician recruitment and retention with a keener knowledge. Further, NWSPR insures integrity and maintains a selective, knowledgeable approach to recruitment and retention in a cost effective and quality conscious manner. The NWSPR is dedicated to attracting and retaining exceptional physicians to the communities served by its members and is an organization comprised of in-house recruiters located in hospitals and health systems within the northwest region of the United States. NWSPR is an organization designed to provide assistance to recruiters and healthcare providers searching for available job opportunities and resources with which to provide better customer service, while providing avenues for up-to-date information regarding recruitment and practices. It is the organization’s ultimate goal to provide assistance to respective employers and fellow recruiters to better the overall healthcare provided in our communities.
Mr. Siergey joined The Vancouver Clinic in August 2004 with extensive experience in physician recruiting as well as Allied Health Recruiting. He began his career as a physician recruiter in 1989. Prior to working for The Vancouver Clinic, he spent 9 years as a physician recruiter for the Kelsey- Seybold Clinic, a large multispeciatly group practice in Houston.
Tom Siergey
Physician Recruiter
360.253.1418
-
1/15/2007
The majority of chronic pelvic pain is caused by endometriosis, a disease of women in their child-bearing years.Women who are interested in participating in the study will be screened to see if they qualify.
The majority of chronic pelvic pain is caused by endometriosis, a disease of women in their child-bearing years. It is fairly common - approximately 5.5 million women in North America have endometriosis. Affecting the pelvis, this disease involves implants of tissue similar to the tissue that lines the uterus. As a woman goes through her cycle, these implants will grow and even bleed like the uterine lining. This can lead to chronic pain and/or fertility problems.
The most common symptoms of endometriosis are pain before and during periods, pain during or after intercourse, and heavy or irregular bleeding. Other symptoms may include fatigue, painful bowel movements with periods, lower back pain with periods, diarrhea and/or constipation with periods and intestinal upset with periods. There may also be painful urination and blood in the urine with periods. Since endometriosis includes so many seemingly unrelated symptoms, it’s often missed or simply misdiagnosed (Rosenthal, 1999).
Current treatment involves surgery [often many surgeries], high dose hormones or hormone blocking drugs. The current research study is a new medication in the hormone blocking category. According to Dr. William Herzig, OB/Gyn specialist and principal investigator for the study at The Vancouver Clinic, “the older medications are expensive monthly injections (approximately $500/mo). While we don’t know how the new medication will be priced if it proves effective, it does come in pill form.”
Women who are interested in participating in the study will be screened to see if they qualify. They will be followed for 48 weeks, with visits every 4 weeks.
References
Rosenthal PhD, M.S. (1999) The Gynecological Sourcebook. NTC/Contemporary Publishing Group, Inc.
Diana Morris
Manager, Research
360.397.3360
-
1/12/2007
Clinical services offered by The Vancouver Clinic put us ahead of most centers by offering our patients a full array of procedures performed by well trained and compassionate staff.”
The Gastroenterology Department’s Motility Lab has expanded its services with the addition of the esophageal manometry and esophageal pH testing services with the use of The InSIGHT(tm) Manometry system. The InSIGHT’s intuitive software is designed to guide the user through the data acquisition process. User definable analysis and report functions minimize editing and report generation effort.
The esophageal manometry procedure is used to diagnose motility disorders, such as achalasia or diffuse esophageal spasm, abnormalities associated with systemic diseases, and for preoperative assessment of esophageal function in patients being considered for anti reflux surgery. The 24 hour esophageal pH testing procedure provides the physician with clear documentation of the amount of acidity in the esophagus as well as whether the presence of acid in the esophagus is associated with other symptoms, such as heartburn, chest pain, coughing or asthma.
The esophageal manometry test measures the motor action of the muscles that are at the upper and lower ends of the esophagus, as well as the motor function of the esophageal body. It is performed using a catheter that is inserted through the nose, which senses pressure changes in the esophagus. These pressure tracings are captured on a computer and later interpreted by the gastroentologist.
The 24 hour esophageal pH testing measures how often stomach acid flows into the lower esophagus and the degree of acidity during a 12 – 24 hour period. A thin plastic tube is gently inserted through the nose and passed down to the end of the esophagus and remains in place for 12 – 24 hours. During this time measurements of acidity in the lower esophagus are recorded on a portable recorder that is carried at the waist.
Both of these tests are performed in the gastroenterology department Motility Lab, by our special procedure nurse. The procedures take approximately one hour. There are no serious problems associated with either of these procedures. The side effects are minor and may include mild sore throat, temporary irritation of the nasal passages, and nose bleeds.
According to Dr Duane Webb, MD, Director of the GI Motility Lab, “The clinical services offered by The Vancouver Clinic put us ahead of most centers by offering our patients a full array of procedures performed by well trained and compassionate staff.”
Sandra Dixon
Manager, 87th Avenue Specialty Care
360.397.3221
-
1/8/2007
The Vancouver Clinic at Salmon Creek is pleased to announce the addition of Same Day Services to its location.
Lead physician on the project, Dr. Claudia Foster-Olson, states “Same Day Services is excited about expanding to Salmon Creek to provide urgent care needs afternoons, evenings and Saturdays to patients of The Vancouver Clinic and Salmon Creek communities. Our goal is to provide services on a walk-in basis for non-emergent and after hours needs such as cold and flu symptom, strains, sprains, lacerations and minor burns.”
Additionally the clinic will have support from the Imaging Department at Salmon Creek to perform X-Rays for Same Day Services patients. The Clinic is staffed by a physician, registered nurse, medical assistant and patient service representative Monday through Friday Noon to 8:00 pm, Saturdays 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. We are closed Sundays, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
No appointment is necessary. Same Day Services is located in suite 150 directly across from the pharmacy at Salmon Creek. They can be reached by phone at 360-397-3970.
Valerie Blum
Manager, Salmon Creek Primary Care
360.397.3970
-
1/5/2007
Interventional radiology offers an alternative to the surgical treatment of many conditions and can eliminate the need for hospitalization, in some cases.
The Radiology Department at The Vancouver Clinic is pleased to announce that it is now offering Interventional Radiology. “We are very excited to provide these effective state-of-the-art procedures to our patients.” commented Dr. Howard Nelson, MD, Interventional Radiologist.
Interventional radiology uses x-rays, ultrasound and other medical images to guide small instruments such as catheters (tubes that measure just a few millimeters in diameter) through the blood vessels or other pathways to treat disease percutaneously (through the skin). Interventional Radiology offers an alternative to the surgical treatment of many conditions such as Nephrostomies (urinary tract catheter), Vertebroplasty, Epidural steroid injections, Thoracentesis, Paracentesis, Biliary Drainages and tube exchanges, and Arthrograms of the shoulder, wrist, hip and knee. Interventional Radiology can eliminate the need for hospitalization, in some cases.
Interventional Radiology provides several advantages. Most procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis and general anesthesia is not required. In addition, the risk, pain and recovery time are significantly reduced. Importantly, in a time when medical costs are steadily increasing, the procedures are generally much less expensive than other alternatives.
Interventional Radiology also studies the body’s blood vessels. Vascular procedures that can be performed by an interventional radiologist include, PICC lines and tube replacements (insertion of central venous catheters) and Angiography exams.
Angiography exams are performed by injecting intravenously an x-ray dye. This can reveal the cause of blockage, bleeding, swelling, or tumor(s). Other procedures are performed to reduce pain include: Epidural steroid injection, for example, can be performed to relieve joint pain associated with the spine.
If you would like further details on any of the above procedures, or would simply like to ask questions about any aspect of Radiology at The Vancouver Clinic, please do not hesitate to contact us at 360.397.3616.
David Savalesky
Imaging Department Manager
360.397.3655
-
1/5/2007
The Vancouver Clinic is now accepting American Express and Discover credit cards as payment for all medical services except pharmacy.
The Vancouver Clinic is now accepting American Express and Discover credit cards as payment for all medical services except pharmacy. These are in addition to the MasterCard and Visa credit cards previously accepted. American Express and Discover will be added as payment at the pharmacies at a later date.
-
1/1/2007
Dr. Ye co-authored the chapter "Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma" in Modern Hematology: Biology and Clinical Management, 2nd edition which was released in December 2006.
With years of training and experience in clinical practice and cancer research, Dr. Ye 
has published papers in prestigious medical journals such as Journal Of Clinical Investigation, Journal Of Experimental Medicine, etc. He co-authored the chapter "Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma" in Modern Hematology: Biology and Clinical Management, 2nd edition which was released in December 2006. Dr. Ye believes that while our knowledge about cancer is constantly evolving, the importance of caring for patients and addressing their concerns has never changed. Patients should be fully educated and involved in the decision making process.
Dr. Ye completed his fellowship in Medical Oncology and Hematology and residency in Internal Medicine at Louisiana University Health Science Center. Dr. Ye’s specialty interests are breast cancer, lung cancer, colorectal cancer and lymphoma, among the full-spectrum of cancers and hematological (blood) disorders. Dr Ye joined The Vancouver Clinic in July of 2006.
Modern Hematology: Biology and Clinical Management, Second Edition describes 
the latest clinical and scientific developments, including molecular studies used to diagnose a variety of hematological disorders and guide their treatment. Targeted and molecular therapies are discussed in detail. The use of peripheral blood and umbilical cord blood stem cells for transplantation is described, as well as the rationale and indications for non-myeloablative transplantation, emphasizing the preferability of immunotherapy over cytotoxic chemotherapy. Experts in pediatric hematology, myeloma, blood transfusion, hemoglobinopathies, pharmacology, and infectious diseases have expanded the scope of Modern Hematology. Comprehensive and informative, Modern Hematology: Biology and Clinical Management, Second Edition is an invaluable resource for medical students, hematology trainees, residents, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physicians in other specialties treating patients with benign and malignant blood disorders.
Sandra Dixon
Manager, 87th Avenue Specialty Care
360.397.3221
-
12/21/2006
On December 21, 2006 The Vancouver Clinic launched a new website designed to improve the patient experience.
The Vancouver Clinic's (TVC) new website is designed to improve the patient experience by offering more features and more intuitive navigation than its predecessor. The Vancouver Clinic hired Luminous Creative, Inc., to design and develop the technical structure for the new site. Luminous Creative worked closely with TVC staff to develop the content as well as the "look and feel" of the site. Some of the notable improvements for patients are the new search functions for finding a doctor, location or specialty. The new site also includes access to Healthwise(tm), a knowledge base for answers to medical questions. In addition, the new site offers the ability for referring providers to electronically submit referrals.
Thomas O'Neal
Director, Information Services
360.397.3355
-
12/17/2006
New system improves efficiency and speeds results!
On Sunday, December 17, 2006, The Vancouver Clinic's Laboratory Information System went live, right on schedule! Thanks to the countless hours of training, building and testing by Laboratory Manager Diana Lee-Greene, her team, and the IS department there were very few issues.
The new system from SCC Soft Computer is an up-to-date software system that is windows based and much more user friendly with significantly increased abilities allowing The Vancouver Clinic to collect, store and retrieve information much more quickly. The fully integrated SoftLab system provides a seamless interface that links all clinical laboratory departments throughout the clinic. Tremendous flexibility is provided to allow the distribution of data and results from the laboratory directly into our electronic medical record. These results are immediately available on each physician's "electronic desktop" for review and appropriate action. Eliminating the "paper process" reduces delays in reporting results to our patients and ensures that all results are reported as quickly and efficiently as possible.
"The system has a broad range of added utilities allowing the laboratory to analyze workloads, productivity, outcomes and specific test statistics which will significantly enhance our reporting capabilities in risk management and budgeting for laboratory services," reported Diana Lee-Greene. When asked why they chose this system over others on the market, Ancillary Services Director, Brett Windsor, replied "the system created by SCC Software allows us to utilize updated software and allows all instruments to be viewed through a single workstation. Remote access is also possible which creates efficiencies in the way we utilize staff. We are confident that SCC will become a valued long term partner for the Clinic."
Diana Lee-Greene
Laboratory Manager
360.397.3120
-
12/15/2006
The Medical Group Management Association (MGMA) has recognized The Vancouver Clinic as a Better Performing Practice for the third consecutive year.
The Medical Group Management Association (MGMA) has recognized The Vancouver Clinic as a Better Performing Practice for the third consecutive year.
Based on the financial data provided for the 2006 Cost Survey, MGMA recognized The Vancouver Clinic as a better performing practice in the Performance and Practices of Successful Medical Groups: 2006 Report Based on 2005 Data. Successful medical groups were selected from the 1,258 respondents to the 2006 Cost Survey.
The Performance and Practices of Successful Medical Groups Report provides benchmarking data on better-performing medical groups and identifies the business practices and behaviors these groups employ to achieve success. It is a compendium of knowledge and know-how based on real world care. This compendium provides real-life experiences that identify and review data from performance indicators to help practices create a roadmap to effectively lead their practice into the future. These "best practices" are proven services, functions or processes that produce superior outcomes or results that meet or set a new standard.
With this recognition came an invitation to participate in the Successful Medical Group Summit - a best-practice roundtable discussion at the MGMA 2007 Annual Conference.
Thomas C. VanSweringen
Executive Director
360.253.1419
-
12/4/2006
In December, 2006, the Gastroenterology Motility Lab implemented Capsule Endoscopy, an efficient, patient-friendly and clinically-proven diagnostic solution that provides accurate visualization of the grastrointestinal tract in its natural state.
In December, 2006, the Gastroenterology Motility Lab implemented Capsule Endoscopy, used in the detection of abnormalities of the small bowel. The PillCam Platform is an efficient, patient-friendly and clinically-proven diagnostic solution that provides accurate visualization of the gastrointestinal tract in its natural state. "Capsule Endoscopy is a revolution in small bowel imaging, an area never seen before with other technology. Our patients will benefit with the ease and lack of discomfort, not to mention the ability to pick up pathology not found by other methods" commented Dr. Duane Webb, Gastroenterologist.
“PillCam Capsule Endoscopy has been utilized to diagnose diseases of the small intestine including Crohn’s Disease, Celiac disease and other malabsorption disorders, benign and malignant tumors of the small intestine, vascular disorders and medication related small bowel injury.” Capsule Endoscopy is indicated and approved only for evaluation of the small intestine and is not meant to be a substitute for endoscopy or colonoscopy.
The procedure requires prior GI, and/or, surgical consultation. The PillCam video capsule is easily swallowed by the patient and moves naturally through the digestive system. No sedation is required.
Images are acquired as the capsule passes through the digestive system. Information is transmitted from the capsule to a DataRecorder worn around the patient's waist via sensors secured to the patient.
The procedure is done as a same day appointment and can be completed within eight hours. During a normal eight hour procedure the video capsule “generates approximately 57,000 images at a rate of two frames per second and enables the detection of objects at a minimum size of less than 0.1mm.
Sandra Dixon
Manager 87th Avenue Specialty Care
360.397.3221
-
11/1/2006
More than 4 million people in the United States have Hepatitis C. Dr Sally Williams is working on two clinical trials for Hepatitis C treatment for patients that have never had treatment.
More than 4 million people in the United States have Hepatitis C. Hepatitis C is a virus that is in the blood stream which causes liver disease. Many people discover they are positive for "Hep C" 20 years after their exposure. Hep C is transmitted by blood via IV drug use, transfusions, during birth, or tattoos. Healthcare workers are also at risk.
Once someone is diagnosed with Hep C, they need to have routine visits with a doctor. He/She will order blood tests to monitor the liver functions. The person should stop drinking alcohol. It is important to get both Hepatitis A and B Vaccines.
About 20% of the positive population progresses to liver disease that needs treatment. Treatment consists of weekly injections and pills twice a day. The standard treatment costs $3000 a month for 6-12 months of treatment. This treatment can be difficult to tolerate due to the significant fatigue the treatment causes.
At the Vancouver Clinic. Dr Sally Williams is working on two clinical trials for Hep C treatment. Each is for patients that have never had treatment. The virus is genotype 1 (detected by a blood test). One is for patients who weigh more than 187 lbs. It is comparing the standard treatment to a more aggressive one to see if better results are achieved. The other compares a new drug to the standard ribavirin. This study is more intense with visits. Both studies offer all medications, supplies, labs, physician visits for no cost to the patient.
Diana Morris
Manager, Research
360.397.3360
-
11/1/2006
One study is for patients between 65 and 80 who have the symptoms of diabetes, or who have already been diagnosed and have not yet started oral medications. The other study is for patients between 18 and 75 who have never been on oral diabetic medications but have failed to lower their blood sugars with diet and exercise.
Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body’s own immune system destroys the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas. This results in a complete deficiency of the insulin hormone. In Type 2 diabetes, also called “non-insulin dependent”, the pancreas is still able to produce insulin, but in limited amounts. Insulin’s main role is to help move certain ingredients – especially glucose – into the cells of the body’s tissues. When glucose builds up in the blood, it can cause dehydration, weight loss, diabetic ketoacidosis, and, over time, damage to nerves and small blood vessels of the eyes, kidneys and heart.
Common symptoms of diabetes are increased thirst, frequent urination, increased hunger, unusual weight loss, extreme fatigue, and irritability. However, in type 2 diabetes, blood sugar levels rise so slowly that a person usually does not have symptoms and may have the disease for many years before being diagnosed with it. People who develop Type 2 diabetes often are overweight and not physically active. It is most common in people who are older than 40 but is becoming more common in children. Type 2 diabetes can be controlled with diet, exercise and medication.
Diabetes is not a harmless condition and without treatment can lead to serious complications. The Research Department is currently enrolling patients with Type 2 diabetes in two studies. One study is for patients between 65 and 80 who have the symptoms of diabetes, or who have already been diagnosed and have not yet started oral medications. The other study is for patients between 18 and 75 who have never been on oral diabetic medications but have failed to lower their blood sugars with diet and exercise. Both of these studies evaluate the difference between two FDA-approved oral study medications to see if they can lower blood sugar and help keep it controlled. Qualified participants will receive all study-related care and active study medications at no cost, blood sugar monitoring equipment and training, and diabetic education.
Diana Morris
Manager, Research
360.397.3360
-
9/23/2006
The Vancouver Clinic has added a new department that focuses on non surgical solutions for sports injuries.
The Vancouver Clinic is pleased to announce the opening of our Sports Medicine department. Paul Johnson, DO came to the clinic in Sept 2006 after completing a sports medicine fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Johnson specializes in the care of non-surgical musculoskeletal injuries, including concussion management. He emphasizes a conservative approach to accomplish goals of decreasing pain, maximizing function and improving performance. Despite the Sports Medicine title, this service caters to the orthopedic needs of a broad spectrum of patients with musculoskeletal dysfunction, not just athletes.
“To me, all patients are athletes, just in different stages of training” says Dr. Johnson.
Trained as an osteopathic physician, Dr Johnson incorporates manual medicine techniques such as strain-counterstrain and joint manipulation into his treatment of orthopedic conditions. He is also trained in the use of prolotherapy, where a series of injections is used to stabilize certain joints. Prolotherapy is a conservative alternative to surgery that can be used in some cases.
In addition to his practice, Dr Johnson spends time eac
h week assisting the athletic programs at Camas High School with injury management. His practice is located in Suite 110 of the Columbia Tech Center location. His services can be accessed by calling (360) 397-3595.
Adam Cowling
Manager, Rehabilitation Services
360.397.3614
-
8/28/2006
The Vancouver Clinic has plans to continue its expansion by replacing its current building on 87th Avenue.
The Vancouver Clinic, serving Southwest Washington since 1936, has plans to continue its expansion by replacing its current building at 700 NE 87th Avenue.
The Clinic has contracted with The Neenan Company to build a 137,000-square-foot facili
ty (more than double the size of its existing facility), will house the Clinic's current practices in Cardiology, Endocrinology, Gastroenterology, Infectious Disease, Internal Medicine, Laboratory, Nephrology, OB/GYN, Occupational Medicine, Oncology, Pediatrics, Pulmonology, Rheumatology, Same Day Services, General Surgery and Urology. It will also include a branch of the Clinic's pharmacy, Physical Therapy, a special procedure suite, and a medical imaging suite.
The Neenan Company, which constructed the new buildings for The Vancouver Clinic's Columbia Tech Center and Salmon Creek locations, has been building since 1966. For 30 of those years, they have worked to perfect the design-build process. Archistruction ® is Neenan's unique approach to design and construction in which professionals of many disciplines work together, under a single roof, entwining design, functionality and budget to create cost effective solutions that meet the broad cross-section of client goals. The Neenan Company's philosophy is that client involvement is an essential ingredient for creating value. They bring vital expertise to the table, yet their expertise only supports the imagination of their clients.
The Clinic's Chairman of the Board, John R. Rastall, M.D., says, "We are pleased to continue our expansion with a new building at 87th Avenue. This growth is essential for us to continue meeting the medical needs of our growing Southwest Washington population." Rastall says the facility will initially be staffed by approximately 65 providers, with an eventual capacity of over 100 providers at the site. The new facility is part of The Vancouver Clinic's plan to offer a wide range of multi-specialty services next to Southwest Washington Medical Center, which continues its expansion with construction and development of new patient space.
Construction of the Clinic's new facility will begin in early 2007 with an anticipated completion date of fall 2008. The Clinic's operations at 87th Avenue will continue at its current location while the new building is constructed. Once completed, demolition of the old site will occur.
It is anticipated that the building will include three stories with a total of 24 modules. Plans for the building will incorporate a number of distinctive architectural features, including an interior similar to the Clinic's Columbia Tech Center and new Salmon Creek facilities. Each of the 24 modules will offer a light-filled reception area just off the Clinic's central Galleria walkway.
The Vancouver Clinic, Southwest Washington's largest multi-specialty clinic, currently has offices at 87th Avenue, Battle Ground, Salmon Creek, Columbia Technical Center, and at the Physician's Pavilion within the Southwest Washington Medical Center. The 170 medical practitioners currently at the Clinic offer services in 23 medical disciplines as well as a full range of ancillary and diagnostic services.
Thomas C. VanSweringen
Executive Director
360.253.1419
-
8/26/2006
This new program is led by Edward Kim, M.D. who brings his expertise to The Vancouver Clinic after completing a residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation from Loma Linda University School of Medicine in California and a subsequent fellowship in Spinal Cord Injury at Stanford University Medical Center.
The Vancouver Clinic has opened the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department in our new Salmon creek facility. This new program is led by Edward Kim, M.D. who brings his expertise to The Vancouver Clinic after completing a residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation from Loma Linda University School of Medicine in California and a subsequent fellowship in Spinal Cord Injury at Stanford University Medical Center.
The focus of this new department is on comprehensive musculoskeletal care emphasizing back pain, electrodiagnostic medicine, and rehabilitation of patients with impairments resulting from spinal cord injury, stroke, traumatic brain injury, and cerebral palsy. Common musculoskeletal prob
lems seen in the clinic include degenerative conditions such as arthritis of shoulders or low back pain. During his residency and fellowship, Dr. Kim has received specialized training in electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies as well as interventional spine procedures such as epidurals. Dr. Kim remains dedicated to keeping up to date with the latest advancements in interventional spine procedures and has had additional training through American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians and International Spine Intervention Society. The Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation specialty also specializes in evaluation and management of abnormal gait and management of spasticity with advanced procedures using EMG guided Botox motor point blocks.
Dr. Kim’s philosophy in caring for his patients is an empathetic, interactive approach that fully involves the patient in the medical decision making process. The Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation department prides itself on a logical, evidence-based, and progressive management of problems starting with simple, non-invasive treatments and modalities.
Kathy Abramson
Manager, Salmon Creek Specialties
360.397.3885
-
8/1/2006
Rituxan is a biologic agent that targets a different immune cell, and is specifically geared toward patients with RA who have not improved with other biologic agents such as Remicade and Enbrel. The Vancouver Clinic is currently involved in a clinical trial testing Rituxan in patients who have not previously been treated with DMARDS.
Arthritis is a general term that describes inflammation in joints. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a type of chronic arthritis that occurs on both sides of the body (hands, wrists, knees). This symmetry is what helps distinguish RA from other types of arthritis. Symptoms of RA include joint pain and swelling, stiffness (especially in the morning or after sitting for long periods) and fatigue. Rheumatoid affects more than 2 million Americans, most of them women. It usually occurs in middle age. An estimated 55-70% of patients with RA have progressive disease which results in joint destruction and disability.
The cause of RA is unknown, but something seems to trigger the body’s immune system to attack the joints. Immune cells migrating from the blood into joints produce substances that cause inflammation. Diagnosis of RA is based on a combination of factors including the specific location and symmetry of painful joints, the presence of joint stiffness in the morning, presence of bumps and nodules under the skin, results of xrays and a positive blood test called the rheumatoid factor.
There are many medications available to decrease joint pain, swelling and inflammation, and possibly prevent or minimize the progression of the disease. These include anti-inflammatory painkiller drugs such as aspirin or ibuprofen; topical pain relievers; corticosteroids such as prednisone; and narcotic pain relievers. There are also many strong medications called disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDS) that are used to treat RA. These medicines work by suppressing the immune system attack on the joints. Methotrexate, Cytoxan,Rituxan, Plaquenil, Enbrel, Orencia, Remicade and Azulfidine are some of the DMARDS being used.
Rituxan is a biologic agent that targets a different immune cell, and is specifically geared toward patients with RA who have not improved with other biologic agents such as Remicade and Enbrel. The Vancouver Clinic is currently involved in a clinical trial testing Rituxan in patients who have not previously been treated with DMARDS.
Diana Morris
Manager, Research
360.397.3360
-
6/8/2006
Coronary CT Angiography is a non-invasive heart-imaging test used for the evaluation of fatty deposits or calcium deposits in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle.
With the introduction of Coronary CT Angiography, The Vancouver Clinic has introduced a new technology to Clark County. Coronary CT Angiography is a noninvasive heart-imaging test used for the evaluation of fatty deposits or calcium deposits in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle. This new test was made possible by the addition of a Philips multi-detector CT scanner.
“We are very excited about this new technology” comments Dr. Tom Kovaric. “Previous to Coronary CTA patients with possible plaque build up would undergo a cardiac catheterization.”
Cardiac catheterization is an invasive procedure which requires having a catheter, or small tube, inserted into a blood vessel and maneuvered up to the coronary arteries. The catheter then is used to inject the iodine dye needed for the test. Given its invasive nature, this procedure may expose the patient to risk, considerable recovery time and expense.
“On the other hand, the Coronary CTA has consistently shown the ability to rule out narrowing of the coronary arteries and detect plaque build up,” Dr Kovaric continues. “Although cardiac catheterization remains the “gold standard” for detecting narrowing of the arteries the Coronary CTA can give us similar results putting the patient at lower risk and expense.”
“The major advantages of Coronary CTA are that it is noninvasive, and it is incredibly accurate at ruling out significant coronary artery disease,” adds Dr. Robert Quintos. “Each year over one million patients undergo invasive cardiac catheterizations in the United States, and around 20% of these reveal no significant heart disease. With coronary CTA, we can now safely identify these patients without unnecessarily exposing them to the risks of invasive procedures.”
The patient can have this procedure done in an outpatient setting. The preparation is minimal, and only requires the patient to hold their breath for several seconds. Moreover, there is essentially no recovery time - patients may walk home minutes after completing the test.
“Coronary CTA will definitely change the way we approach coronary disease,” concludes Dr. Quintos.
Laurie Kinonen
Manager, Cardiology
360.397.3116
-
6/1/2006
Approximately 15 out of 1000 individuals consult their physician each year with complaints of dizziness, vertigo, or imbalance. The Vancouver Clinic Physical Therapy Department offers state of the art assessment and treatment for patients with dizziness and balance disorders.
Approximately 15 out of 1000 individuals consult their physician each year with complaints of dizziness, vertigo, or imbalance. At least 50% of the US population over 40 is affected by a balance or vestibular problem sometime during their lives. 85% of dizziness is due to a vestibular (inner ear) disorder. Syptoms of Vestibular disorders may include: dizziness, unsteadiness, imbalance, vertigo and nausea.
vertigo, and nausea.
The Vancouver Clinic Physical Therapy Department offers state of the art assessment and treatment for patients with dizziness and balance disorders. Our vestibular protocol starts with a referral to our Audiology department for comprehensive diagnostic testing including posturography, electronystagmography, and audiogram. Appropriate candidates are then further evaluated in the Physical Therapy department for treatment.
The Physical Therapy department at Salmon Creek will develop individualized programs addressing the deficits found during diagnostic testing as well as our own detailed evaluation. Treatment may include:
- Addressing both motor and sensory deficits
- Canalithic repositioning
- Development of appropriate exercise programs for balance retraining including visual feedback
- Intensive patient education including compensatory and habituation techniques
- Follow up testing to give measurable progress compared to normative age related data
Please call 306-397-3840 for more information.
Adam Cowling
Manager, Rehabilitation Services
360.397.3614
-
5/8/2006
Our new Audiology Clinic is a full diagnostic state of the art facility specializing in a wide range of services.
The audiology department at Salmon Creek opened in May of 2006 serving a diverse patient population ranging from newborns to adults. Our clinic is a full diagnostic state of the art facility specializing in a wide range of services.
Our state and nationally certified audiologists can evaluate the hearing status of the middle and inner ear for patients experiencing ear related problems including hearing loss, dizziness, vertigo, tinnitus or head trauma. We have a close working relationship with the Ear, Nose and Throat Department and will refer a patient to our team of Otolaryngologists for further evaluation and treatment. Reports on the outcome of the hearing tests are delivered to the referring provider within 24 hours.
For patients with a wide range of balance disorders of the vestibular system, dizziness and history of or risk for fall, our audiologists will work with the physical therapy department to assess and treat the disorder. The audiologists will determine the source of the vestibular or balance disorder using the SMART Equitest assessment system located in the Rehab department. This information will then be used by the physical therapist to treat the problem, improve balance and minimize other symptoms due to dizziness and vertigo. Audiologists use VNG Testing to assess the functional status of the patient’s vestibular or balance system located in the inner ear to diagnose vestibular dysfunction. The physical therapy team will treat the patient with the appropriate rehabilitation program.
Using Neurophysiologic Testing our Audiologists will assess the functional status of the auditory nerve and lower brainstem portion of the brain. Patients that present with symptoms of suspected hearing loss and/or developmental, cognitive disabilities and newborns are most typically tested using Auditory Brainstem Response Testing. Also, the status of the auditory pathway beyond the VIIIth (hearing) nerve is evaluated as well.
We welcome patients of all ages for hearing aid fitting. The audiology department will work with each patient to determine the appropriate fit, make and model of hearing instruments. We work with The Vancouver School District and Educational Services District regarding the care of pediatric patients. Aural rehabilitation services will be provided for hearing impaired patients. This will include counseling, community related resources and educating hearing impaired patients and their families on how to communicate more effectively in everyday life.
Adam Cowling
Manager, Rehabilitation Services
360.397.3614
-
4/24/2006
On April 24, 2006 The Vancouver Clinic opened its newest building in Salmon Creek on 139th Street.
On April 24, 2006 The Vancouver Clinic opened its newest building in Salmon Cree
k on NE 139th Street, next to Legacy Salmon Creek Hospital. The 91,000 square foot facility, houses practices in Cardiology, Dermatology, ENT, Family Medicine, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, Internal Medicine, Internal Medicine/Pediatrics, OB/GYN, Pediatrics, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Podiatry, Rheumatology, and Same Day Services. Ancillary Services include Audiology, Bone Densitometry, General Radiography, Hydrotherapy Pool, Laboratory, Mammography, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy, Ultrasonography, and Vestibular Studies. A branch of The Vancouver Clinic Pharmacy is also housed in this new location.
Founded in 1936, the Clinic added 43 new providers in 2006, increasing its total to 176 providers and 608 support staff.
The Vancouver Clinic, Southwest Washington's largest multi-specialty clinic, currently has offices at 87th Avenue, Battle Ground, Salmon Creek, Columbia Technical Center, and the Physician's Pavilion within Southwest Washington Medical Center.
Thomas C. VanSweringen
Executive Director
360.253.1419
-
4/15/2006
The Vancouver Clinic is proud to announce the addition of Aquatic Rehabilitation services to its Physical Therapy department at the Vancouver Clinic in Salmon Creek.
The Vancouver Clinic is proud to announce the addition of Aquatic Rehabilitation services to its Physical Therapy department at Salmon Creek.
According to Physical Therapy Department Manager, Adam Cowli
ng, the addition of the 20 foot by 12 foot, 4 foot deep pool allows the Clinic’s Physical Therapy Staff to treat a wide range of patients who will benefit most from these services in the most effective manner. “The weightless environment of the water allows the patient to function in a non-weight bearing fashion, which can relieve an enormous amount of stress on painful lower extremity joints”.
The ability to relieve pain related to weight bearing in the pool allows joints to move – movement which is critical to maintaining the health of the joints. Often exercising in water and the ability take the weight off joints is the only environment that people can exercise in. Mr. Cowling further notes that the warm water (92 degrees) facilitates an analgesic effect which further decreases the pain and discomfort associated with joint dysfunction.
Director of Ancillary Services, Brett Windsor, points out that many different types of patients can benefit from treatment sessions in the pool environment. Water is an excellent medium in which to exercise while pregnant, particularly if the later stages of pregnancy are accompanied by back pain preventing normal exercise routines.
New technology deployed in the pool area has helped to produce a more comfortable environment than is sometimes associated with Physical Therapy pools. Humidity levels have all but been eliminated, which allows patients to exercise in comfort and the pool is located in a fully windowed room with natural sunlight. There are dressing rooms and shower facilities for both men and women.
Anyone is welcome to access aquatic therapy. Classes are available for many different ages. Talk to your health care provider about a referral for individual therapy sessions. Most insurance plans are accepted.
Adam Cowling
Manager, Rehabilitation Services
360.397.3614
-
1/8/2006
Patients who are eligible to enroll in the study must have moderate to severe Crohn’s disease and have failed to respond to (or are intolerant of) infliximab or are having a flare up of their disease.
Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory process of the gastrointestinal tract. It is most common in people in their 20’s and 30’s. There is no laboratory test which can be used to diagnose Crohn’s disease. Endoscopy has become the most common method for making the diagnosis, and barium enemas can also provide useful information. No cause for Crohn’s disease has been identified, although it seems to be genetically linked and is often associated with smoking.
Crohn’s disease is not curable either medically or surgically, so most approaches to treatment are focused on controlling symptoms, improving quality of life and minimize complications. It is estimated that 50 in every 100,000 people in the United States have Crohn’s disease. While this is a relatively small number, the cost of therapy for these patients is estimated at two billion dollars annually in the US.
Physicians treating patients with Crohn’s disease noticed that those who were on anti-inflammatory medications for rheumatoid arthritis (another inflammatory disease0 had an improvement in their Crohn’s symptoms as well. This has led to research studies to see if the use of anti-inflammatories is widely effectively for treating Crohn’s disease.
The Vancouver Clinic’s Gastroenterology Department is participating in one of these research studies. Patients who are eligible to enroll in the study must have moderate to severe Crohn’s disease and have failed to respond to(or are intolerant of)infliximab.
A second research study in which The Vancouver Clinic is participating involves patients who are having a flare of their disease. The goal of this study is to bring patients into remission and maintain long-term remission of their disease, while avoiding long-term use of corticosteroid medication. Corticosteroids are widely used in treatment of Crohn’s disease, but there is concern over adverse effects.
-
4/2/2004
Portland Monthly Magazine's March, 2004 issue offered a guide to the Portland Metro area's top 190 physicians practicing in 31 specialties.
Portland Monthly Magazine's March, 2004 issue offered a guide to the Portland Metro area's top 190 physicians practicing in 31 specialties. To create the list, the magazine turned to the nationally known research firm Best Doctors, Inc., which asked area physicians which doctor they would trust if they or a family member of theirs were sick.
Dr. Thomas Reis was honored as one among eight of the metropolitan area's top General Internists.
-
3/1/2004
Internal Medicine Practitioner Dr. Daniel Highkin has contributed a chapter to the book Age Without Rage, published February, 2004 by local publisher R-W International.
Internal Medicine Practitioner Dr. Daniel Highkin has contributed a chapter to the book Age Without Rage, published February, 2004 by local publisher R-W International. His chapter, "ÂMedicine and Aging"Â gives advice on lifestyle issues such as diet, exercise, and vitamins, and also offers advice for avoiding the common diseases including heart disease, cancer, stroke, Alzheimer'Âs Disease, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, macular degeneration, hypertension, and diabetes.
Throughout, Dr. Highkin empowers readers with the latest understandings and takes aim at myths. He also explores "alternative"Â approaches and tells which ones are proven beneficial in research.
-
1/20/2003
The Physical Therapy Department opened its doors to patients today at its new treatment facility within the Clinic's Salmon Creek location.
The Physical Therapy Department opened its doors to patients on today at its new treatment facility within the Clinic's Salmon Creek location.
The facility includes 1,000 square feet of space toward the front of the building. Salmon Creek was selected for the site because many of the Clinic's current Physical Therapy patients are from that area, and it's also situated well to serve patients of the Clinic's Battle Ground facility.
The new offices will also provide a first step in realizing the department's strategic goal of increasing the breadth of Physical Therapy services and targeting them to the specific needs of Clinic providers.
The Salmon Creek PT office will cater to younger, more sports-minded patients, as well as pediatric patients over the age of five. Eventually it will offer more treatment options for chronic pain and lumbar-spine problems.
The overall goal is higher quality of care for patients. One aspect of that is a greatly reduced waiting time for appointments. The phone number of the new Salmon Creek office is 566-4360.