FAYETTEVILLE – Cape Fear Valley Medical Center entered into a collaborative agreement with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) that ensures that Medicare funding to the hospital is not terminated.
The arrangement allows Cape Fear Valley the opportunity to step back and take a methodical, comprehensive review of all policies and procedures at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center instead of simply rushing through another survey process. Cape Fear Valley has asked The Greeley Company, a nationally recognized CMS policy expert, to assist in the review process.
Cape Fear Valley has been working with The Greeley Company since Dec. 2, 2011, to make improvements in the Emergency Department and the discharge documentation process. Among the improvements in the ED are the addition of a physician in the triage area to provide more timely medical screening exams and the addition of a clinical person in the ED waiting room to perform reassessments on patients and work with the triage nurse and ED physician to identify patients whose condition may warrant a higher priority.
“We welcome this opportunity to work in partnership with CMS,” said Michael Nagowski, Cape Fear Valley Health Chief Executive Officer. “Cape Fear Valley has worked with CMS and has been recognized for five years in a row as part of the Healthcare Quality Incentive Demonstration (HQID) project. To date the health system has received 23 HQID awards and received more than $450,000 in additional payments from CMS. We expect this collaboration with CMS will further enhance our operations and quality.”
About Me
- Cape Fear Valley Health System
- Cape Fear Valley is a 765-bed regional health system serving a six-county region of Southeastern North Carolina, with more than 935,000 patients annually. A private not-for-profit organization and the state’s 9th largest health system, it includes Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, Highsmith-Rainey Specialty Hospital, Cape Fear Valley Rehabilitation Center and Bladen County Hospital.
Friday, January 20, 2012
Bladen Medical Associates Office Moving To New Location
BLADENBORO – Bladen Medical Associate’s Bladenboro Clinic will be moving to a new, state-of-the-art location in the spring.
The new primary care facility will be located inside existing space at 1106 West Seaboard St., across from Bo’s Supermarket. Bladen Medical Associates-Bladenboro will lease the 5,600-square-foot building and renovate it to offer new diagnostic services to area residents. The renovation began in late December and is expected to end in April.
The project is a collaborative effort among the Town of Bladenboro, Bladen’s Bloomin Agri-Industrial, Inc., the N.C. Rural Center Foundation, the Golden Leaf Foundation and Bladen Healthcare, LLC.
The leased space will be completely renovated to accommodate the practice’s new services, including Obstetrics and Gynecology. A provider from Bladen Healthcare’s Women’s Health Specialists will have scheduled days at the facility.
X-rays, ultrasounds and blood draws will also be available at the practice for the first time. Local patients previously had to drive 20 minutes or more to obtain these services.
“The staff and I are so excited about the new office,” said Pearline Grant, M.D. “It’s going to allow us to offer more services, which means we can provide a higher level of care to our patients. I just know that our patients are going to love the new building and services.”
The Bladenboro office will also add a new provider: Shelly Brown, FNP-C, a Bladenboro native.
“I look forward to providing quality care,” Brown said, “not only to clients but to neighbors as well. This new building is to going to be great and the practice will continue to be an invaluable asset to our community.”
Once completed, a facility grand opening will be held.
The new primary care facility will be located inside existing space at 1106 West Seaboard St., across from Bo’s Supermarket. Bladen Medical Associates-Bladenboro will lease the 5,600-square-foot building and renovate it to offer new diagnostic services to area residents. The renovation began in late December and is expected to end in April.
The project is a collaborative effort among the Town of Bladenboro, Bladen’s Bloomin Agri-Industrial, Inc., the N.C. Rural Center Foundation, the Golden Leaf Foundation and Bladen Healthcare, LLC.
The leased space will be completely renovated to accommodate the practice’s new services, including Obstetrics and Gynecology. A provider from Bladen Healthcare’s Women’s Health Specialists will have scheduled days at the facility.
X-rays, ultrasounds and blood draws will also be available at the practice for the first time. Local patients previously had to drive 20 minutes or more to obtain these services.
“The staff and I are so excited about the new office,” said Pearline Grant, M.D. “It’s going to allow us to offer more services, which means we can provide a higher level of care to our patients. I just know that our patients are going to love the new building and services.”
The Bladenboro office will also add a new provider: Shelly Brown, FNP-C, a Bladenboro native.
“I look forward to providing quality care,” Brown said, “not only to clients but to neighbors as well. This new building is to going to be great and the practice will continue to be an invaluable asset to our community.”
Once completed, a facility grand opening will be held.
Cape Fear Valley Named Top Performing Hospital
FAYETTEVILLE – Cape Fear Valley Health has been named a Top Performing hospital for 2011 under QUEST, a performance program developed by the federal government.
Based on third-year results, the health system received awards for top performance in the areas of saving lives, safely reducing patient care costs, and delivering the most reliable and effective care.
As a result, Cape Fear Valley will receive a $20,000 monetary award for meeting its goals under the program.
QUEST was created in 2008 by the Institute for Health Improvement and the Premier healthcare alliance. Its goal is to incentivize hospitals to increase healthcare quality, while also reducing costs, to prepare for changes in the healthcare industry.
Cape Fear Valley has been named a Top Performing hospital for all three years of the project.
More than 150 hospitals nationwide joined QUEST in 2008 to set initial performance goals and then try to meet them annually under the project. Participating hospitals can collaborate and share knowledge with each other to develop best practices, which benefits all hospitals.
The federal government will soon begin penalizing poor-performing hospitals by reducing their Medicare reimbursement payments. Higher performing hospitals will receive bonuses. QUEST hospitals consistently outperform other hospitals at a lower cost, benefitting everyone.
Based on third-year results, the health system received awards for top performance in the areas of saving lives, safely reducing patient care costs, and delivering the most reliable and effective care.
As a result, Cape Fear Valley will receive a $20,000 monetary award for meeting its goals under the program.
QUEST was created in 2008 by the Institute for Health Improvement and the Premier healthcare alliance. Its goal is to incentivize hospitals to increase healthcare quality, while also reducing costs, to prepare for changes in the healthcare industry.
Cape Fear Valley has been named a Top Performing hospital for all three years of the project.
More than 150 hospitals nationwide joined QUEST in 2008 to set initial performance goals and then try to meet them annually under the project. Participating hospitals can collaborate and share knowledge with each other to develop best practices, which benefits all hospitals.
The federal government will soon begin penalizing poor-performing hospitals by reducing their Medicare reimbursement payments. Higher performing hospitals will receive bonuses. QUEST hospitals consistently outperform other hospitals at a lower cost, benefitting everyone.
Cape Fear Valley Earns National Quality Award
FAYETTEVILLE – Cape Fear Valley Health is being rewarded for consistently delivering high quality care.
The health system was named an Attainment Award winner under the Health Quality Incentive Demonstration (HQID) Project for 2011. As a result, Cape Fear Valley Health will receive $50,000 in additional insurance reimbursement payments from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
The federal agency partnered with the Premier healthcare alliance to create the pay-for-performance study six years ago. The project’s goal is to improve patient care quality and to determine if financial incentives are effective at improving patient care quality among hospitals. Just 272 hospitals participate in the study nationwide.
Cape Fear Valley Health won for its work in the areas of heart attack, heart failure, heart bypass surgery, pneumonia, hip and knee replacement surgery and surgical care improvement. To date, the health system has received 23 HQID awards and received more than $450,000.
CMS issued out approximately $12 million in additional incentive payments to just 211 hospitals in 2011. Overall, CMS has awarded more than $60 million throughout all six years of the HQID project.
HQID is the first CMS incentive program of its kind. It measures such things as prescribing a daily aspirin to prevent heart attacks and teaching heart failure patients to weigh themselves daily. These are considered best practices, which lead to best patient outcomes.
The Premier healthcare alliance is a performance improvement alliance of more than 2,500 hospitals nationwide and 78,000 other healthcare facilities, which collaborate to improve quality and cost-effectiveness. To learn more, visit www.premierinc.com.
The health system was named an Attainment Award winner under the Health Quality Incentive Demonstration (HQID) Project for 2011. As a result, Cape Fear Valley Health will receive $50,000 in additional insurance reimbursement payments from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
The federal agency partnered with the Premier healthcare alliance to create the pay-for-performance study six years ago. The project’s goal is to improve patient care quality and to determine if financial incentives are effective at improving patient care quality among hospitals. Just 272 hospitals participate in the study nationwide.
Cape Fear Valley Health won for its work in the areas of heart attack, heart failure, heart bypass surgery, pneumonia, hip and knee replacement surgery and surgical care improvement. To date, the health system has received 23 HQID awards and received more than $450,000.
CMS issued out approximately $12 million in additional incentive payments to just 211 hospitals in 2011. Overall, CMS has awarded more than $60 million throughout all six years of the HQID project.
HQID is the first CMS incentive program of its kind. It measures such things as prescribing a daily aspirin to prevent heart attacks and teaching heart failure patients to weigh themselves daily. These are considered best practices, which lead to best patient outcomes.
The Premier healthcare alliance is a performance improvement alliance of more than 2,500 hospitals nationwide and 78,000 other healthcare facilities, which collaborate to improve quality and cost-effectiveness. To learn more, visit www.premierinc.com.
Bladen County Hospital Participating In National Study
ELIZABETHTOWN – Bladen County Hospital has joined the Joint Commission Center for Transforming Healthcare's Healing Partnership™ and is participating in a nationwide hand hygiene study.
Mindy Goldsmith, Performance Improvement Coordinator at Bladen County Hospital, said hand-washing practices among physicians and staff will be observed for three months before results are submitted to the Joint Commission Center. The local results will then help attain a national average.
The study's goal is to help improve patient safety and lower healthcare costs among hospitals nationwide. This is the first time Bladen County Hospital has participated in a Joint Commission Center study. Any Joint Commission-accredited healthcare organization can join the Healthcare Healing Partnership™.
The Joint Commission is an independent, not-for-profit organization that accredits and certifies more than 19,000 healthcare organizations and hospitals nationwide. To learn more, visit www.jointcommission.org.
Mindy Goldsmith, Performance Improvement Coordinator at Bladen County Hospital, said hand-washing practices among physicians and staff will be observed for three months before results are submitted to the Joint Commission Center. The local results will then help attain a national average.
The study's goal is to help improve patient safety and lower healthcare costs among hospitals nationwide. This is the first time Bladen County Hospital has participated in a Joint Commission Center study. Any Joint Commission-accredited healthcare organization can join the Healthcare Healing Partnership™.
The Joint Commission is an independent, not-for-profit organization that accredits and certifies more than 19,000 healthcare organizations and hospitals nationwide. To learn more, visit www.jointcommission.org.
Knitters Donate Caps For A Good Cause
ELIZABETHTOWN – Area knitters got into the Christmas spirit early this year by recently donating 60 knitted caps for newborn babies at Bladen County Hospital's Birth Center.
The knitting enthusiasts personally delivered the headgear for the Period of Purple Crying Prevention Program, which raises awareness about shaken baby syndrome. The condition occurs when parents or caregivers, frustrated by crying infants, shake their baby.
Bladen County Hospital began participating in the statewide initiative in 2008. The hospital's nurses educate new mothers at the bedside about the dangers of shaken baby syndrome and how to soothe crying babies.
The new mothers also watch an educational DVD during their stay and get language-specific, personal copies to take home.
The program's goal is to reduce shaken baby syndrome cases in North Carolina by 50 percent over five years. Nationally, an estimated 1,200 to 1,400 children require medical treatment each year after being shaken.
The knitting enthusiasts personally delivered the headgear for the Period of Purple Crying Prevention Program, which raises awareness about shaken baby syndrome. The condition occurs when parents or caregivers, frustrated by crying infants, shake their baby.
Bladen County Hospital began participating in the statewide initiative in 2008. The hospital's nurses educate new mothers at the bedside about the dangers of shaken baby syndrome and how to soothe crying babies.
The new mothers also watch an educational DVD during their stay and get language-specific, personal copies to take home.
The program's goal is to reduce shaken baby syndrome cases in North Carolina by 50 percent over five years. Nationally, an estimated 1,200 to 1,400 children require medical treatment each year after being shaken.
Digital Mammography Off To Fast Start
ELIZABETHTOWN – The Women’s Diagnostic Center at Bladen County Hospital has performed more than 1,000 digital mammograms since launching the in-house service earlier this year.
Mindy Goldsmith, Director of Radiology at Bladen County Hospital, says the center performed 170 mammograms in October alone, which was national Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The Women’s Diagnostic Center performs both preventive and diagnostic screenings using the facility’s new state-of-the-art digital mammography equipment, which was installed in March. It is the first time Bladen County Hospital has offered digital screenings to the community.
A regular mammogram is essential for early detection of breast cancer, which can save lives. The Women’s Diagnostic Center still performs traditional mammograms. But digital, or computerized, mammography systems provide quicker and more-detailed results through the use of digital images.
In all, the Women’s Diagnostic Center has performed more than 2,000 mammograms since March on patients from Bladen and surrounding counties. The facility is located at 603 S. Cypress St. and is open from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. To schedule a mammogram or to learn more, call (910) 863-1131.
Mindy Goldsmith, Director of Radiology at Bladen County Hospital, says the center performed 170 mammograms in October alone, which was national Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The Women’s Diagnostic Center performs both preventive and diagnostic screenings using the facility’s new state-of-the-art digital mammography equipment, which was installed in March. It is the first time Bladen County Hospital has offered digital screenings to the community.
A regular mammogram is essential for early detection of breast cancer, which can save lives. The Women’s Diagnostic Center still performs traditional mammograms. But digital, or computerized, mammography systems provide quicker and more-detailed results through the use of digital images.
In all, the Women’s Diagnostic Center has performed more than 2,000 mammograms since March on patients from Bladen and surrounding counties. The facility is located at 603 S. Cypress St. and is open from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. To schedule a mammogram or to learn more, call (910) 863-1131.
Diabetes Bus Coming To Elizabethtown
ELIZABETHTOWN – The Diabetes Bus is making its way back to Bladen County.
The traveling educational road show will make its next pit stop on Monday, Nov. 14, at Trinity United Methodist Church at 901 W. Broad St. The free event is sponsored by Bladen Medical Associates and will be from 1 to 3 p.m.
Bladen County Hospital is bringing the mobile classroom to Elizabethtown to help educate local patients and family members about the importance of staying on top of the disease.
If left uncontrolled, diabetes can lead to chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, kidney disease, blindness, limb amputations, and even death.
Roughly 24 million Americans have diabetes and as many as a third of U.S. adults could have the disease by 2050 if trends continue. North Carolina’s prevalence rate is higher than the national average, but has few diabetes management programs in rural areas.
The Diabetes Bus initiative was created with the help of a Duke Endowment to provide access to quality diabetes education to N.C. communities.
To learn more about the Diabetes Bus initiative, go to http://www.thediabetesbus.org/ or call Bladen County Hospital at (910) 862-5100.
The traveling educational road show will make its next pit stop on Monday, Nov. 14, at Trinity United Methodist Church at 901 W. Broad St. The free event is sponsored by Bladen Medical Associates and will be from 1 to 3 p.m.
Bladen County Hospital is bringing the mobile classroom to Elizabethtown to help educate local patients and family members about the importance of staying on top of the disease.
If left uncontrolled, diabetes can lead to chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, kidney disease, blindness, limb amputations, and even death.
Roughly 24 million Americans have diabetes and as many as a third of U.S. adults could have the disease by 2050 if trends continue. North Carolina’s prevalence rate is higher than the national average, but has few diabetes management programs in rural areas.
The Diabetes Bus initiative was created with the help of a Duke Endowment to provide access to quality diabetes education to N.C. communities.
To learn more about the Diabetes Bus initiative, go to http://www.thediabetesbus.org/ or call Bladen County Hospital at (910) 862-5100.
Weatherly Appointed Interim CEO For Bladen County Hospital
ELIZABETHTOWN – Dan Weatherly has been appointed Interim CEO for Bladen County Hospital.
The Harrisburg, Ill. Native has more than 15 years of experience in the healthcare services development field. He previously held the position of Director of Outpatient Operations with Cape Fear Valley Health, responsible for developing and growing outpatient volumes for Hoke, Bladen and southern Cumberland counties.
Prior to that, he was Territory Sales Manager for PathGroup Labs, based in Brentwood, Tenn. His duties included developing new laboratory services throughout eastern Tennessee and north Georgia, and managing laboratory service operations for more than 145 physician practices.
Weatherly received his bachelor’s degree in Marketing from the University of South Florida in Tampa, Fla., and his master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of St. Francis in Chicago, Ill.
In his new position, Weatherly will oversee daily operations at Bladen County Hospital. He replaces Cameron Highsmith, who resigned as Bladen County Hospital CEO in October.
The Harrisburg, Ill. Native has more than 15 years of experience in the healthcare services development field. He previously held the position of Director of Outpatient Operations with Cape Fear Valley Health, responsible for developing and growing outpatient volumes for Hoke, Bladen and southern Cumberland counties.
Prior to that, he was Territory Sales Manager for PathGroup Labs, based in Brentwood, Tenn. His duties included developing new laboratory services throughout eastern Tennessee and north Georgia, and managing laboratory service operations for more than 145 physician practices.
Weatherly received his bachelor’s degree in Marketing from the University of South Florida in Tampa, Fla., and his master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of St. Francis in Chicago, Ill.
In his new position, Weatherly will oversee daily operations at Bladen County Hospital. He replaces Cameron Highsmith, who resigned as Bladen County Hospital CEO in October.
Cape Fear Valley CEO Talks To Wall Street About Healthcare Reform
NEW YORK – Cape Fear Valley CEO Mike Nagowski spoke before Wall Street executives today as part of an expert panel discussion on the healthcare industry.
The event was held by the Premier healthcare alliance and touched on topics, ranging from emerging healthcare trends and strategic partnerships to reducing costs and physician practices.
Nagowski spoke before the 99 executive analysts about healthcare reform and its burgeoning effects. The healthcare industry is consistently looking for news ways to improve performance while receiving less reimbursement from insurance providers.
Cutting costs is a tenuous option in the healthcare industry, where patient care quality is always a priority.
“Cape Fear Valley has been preparing for healthcare reform for years through our collaboration with Premier,” Nagowski said. “We’re focusing quality and safely reducing the cost of care through a number of initiatives.
“Our Transition of Care Clinic for congestive heart failure patients is a good example of how we are caring for patients outside the hospital. It’s not only a sound strategy for healthcare reform, it’s an effective way to improve the health status of our community.”
Cape Fear Valley Health and the Premier alliance of more than 200 other hospitals have partnered for several years to improve healthcare by collecting and analyzing performance data. The resulting best practices are then shared with more than 2,500 U.S. hospitals nationwide and 76,000 other healthcare offices and clinics.
The event was held by the Premier healthcare alliance and touched on topics, ranging from emerging healthcare trends and strategic partnerships to reducing costs and physician practices.
Nagowski spoke before the 99 executive analysts about healthcare reform and its burgeoning effects. The healthcare industry is consistently looking for news ways to improve performance while receiving less reimbursement from insurance providers.
Cutting costs is a tenuous option in the healthcare industry, where patient care quality is always a priority.
“Cape Fear Valley has been preparing for healthcare reform for years through our collaboration with Premier,” Nagowski said. “We’re focusing quality and safely reducing the cost of care through a number of initiatives.
“Our Transition of Care Clinic for congestive heart failure patients is a good example of how we are caring for patients outside the hospital. It’s not only a sound strategy for healthcare reform, it’s an effective way to improve the health status of our community.”
Cape Fear Valley Health and the Premier alliance of more than 200 other hospitals have partnered for several years to improve healthcare by collecting and analyzing performance data. The resulting best practices are then shared with more than 2,500 U.S. hospitals nationwide and 76,000 other healthcare offices and clinics.
Thibodeaux Named Cardiac Manager
FAYETTEVILLE – Julie Thibodeaux, RN, has been appointed Patient Care Manager for Cardiac Services at Cape Fear Valley Health.
The Sanford native has more than 14 years of nursing experience and previously served as a clinical educator with Cape Fear Valley Heart & Vascular Center. She joined the health system in 2008 as a Lead Charge Nurse with the Chest Pain Observation Unit.
Thibodeaux will oversee Cape Fear Valley’s Chest Pain Center and Cardiovascular Observation Unit.
She received her associate degree in Nursing from Sandhills Community College in Southern Pines. She is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Grand Canyon University.
The Sanford native has more than 14 years of nursing experience and previously served as a clinical educator with Cape Fear Valley Heart & Vascular Center. She joined the health system in 2008 as a Lead Charge Nurse with the Chest Pain Observation Unit.
Thibodeaux will oversee Cape Fear Valley’s Chest Pain Center and Cardiovascular Observation Unit.
She received her associate degree in Nursing from Sandhills Community College in Southern Pines. She is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Grand Canyon University.
Bladen Nurse Among Great 100
ELIZABETHTOWN – Terri Duncan, RN, BSN, has been selected as a Great 100 Nurse for 2011. The award is an annual honor given to nurses who exhibit nursing excellence and make a difference in their community.
Duncan, a Clarkton native, has more than 20 years of nursing experience and currently serves as a Clinical Educator at Bladen Healthcare. Her duties include educating health system nurses about best practices and evidence-based medicine. She also serves as a patient advocate by looking for ways to improve healthcare for all patients.
Her other duties include everything from educating employees about smoking cessation, serving as a hospital liaison to area nursing programs, and helping instruct new nurses during clinical rotations.
When she’s not working, Duncan talks to civic and faith-based groups about healthcare. For the past 10 years, she has touched on issues such as senior health, exercise, meal preparation and healthcare decisions.
Duncan previously served as a district representative and local district president with the North Carolina Nurses Association. She has been a member for more than 20 years.
Just 100 nurses are chosen each year to receive the Great 100 award. It was created by the Great 100 organization, a grassroots-nursing group created in 1988 to recognize outstanding registered nurses in North Carolina.
Duncan, a Clarkton native, has more than 20 years of nursing experience and currently serves as a Clinical Educator at Bladen Healthcare. Her duties include educating health system nurses about best practices and evidence-based medicine. She also serves as a patient advocate by looking for ways to improve healthcare for all patients.
Her other duties include everything from educating employees about smoking cessation, serving as a hospital liaison to area nursing programs, and helping instruct new nurses during clinical rotations.
When she’s not working, Duncan talks to civic and faith-based groups about healthcare. For the past 10 years, she has touched on issues such as senior health, exercise, meal preparation and healthcare decisions.
Duncan previously served as a district representative and local district president with the North Carolina Nurses Association. She has been a member for more than 20 years.
Just 100 nurses are chosen each year to receive the Great 100 award. It was created by the Great 100 organization, a grassroots-nursing group created in 1988 to recognize outstanding registered nurses in North Carolina.
State Officials OK Cape Fear Valley Health Trauma Program
FAYETTEVILLE – State EMS officials have given Cape Fear Valley Health approval to operate as a Level-III Trauma Center for parts of southeastern North Carolina.
The N.C. Department of Health and Human Service's Office of Emergency Medical Services granted the approval on Sept. 1. The program's launch will eventually lead to an official Trauma Program designation for Cape Fear Valley, which is expected within a year.
In its approval letter, state EMS officials recommend that regional EMS providers include Cape Fear Valley's new trauma center as a treatment destination for critically injured patients.
Cape Fear Valley's Trauma Center program will serve patients from Cumberland, Sampson, Bladen, Hoke and Harnett counties.
Trauma injuries require advanced medical care as soon as possible. EMS workers are instructed to take trauma patients to the nearest hospital that can adequately treat their injuries. This often means diverting patients from local hospitals to a dedicated trauma center.
Level-III trauma centers are defined as facilities that have emergency resuscitation, surgery and intensive care capabilities for most trauma patients, but do not have full availability of specialists. Cape Fear Valley currently has six surgeons on its trauma panel, allowing for full, 24-hour coverage.
The N.C. Department of Health and Human Service's Office of Emergency Medical Services granted the approval on Sept. 1. The program's launch will eventually lead to an official Trauma Program designation for Cape Fear Valley, which is expected within a year.
In its approval letter, state EMS officials recommend that regional EMS providers include Cape Fear Valley's new trauma center as a treatment destination for critically injured patients.
Cape Fear Valley's Trauma Center program will serve patients from Cumberland, Sampson, Bladen, Hoke and Harnett counties.
Trauma injuries require advanced medical care as soon as possible. EMS workers are instructed to take trauma patients to the nearest hospital that can adequately treat their injuries. This often means diverting patients from local hospitals to a dedicated trauma center.
Level-III trauma centers are defined as facilities that have emergency resuscitation, surgery and intensive care capabilities for most trauma patients, but do not have full availability of specialists. Cape Fear Valley currently has six surgeons on its trauma panel, allowing for full, 24-hour coverage.
Cardiac Rehab Program Receives National Re-accreditation
FAYETTEVILLE – Cape Fear Valley Health’s Cardiac Rehabilitation Program has been re-accredited by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR).
The three-year certification recognizes Cape Fear Valley’s commitment to quality treatment and improved patient outcomes. Certified AACVPR programs offer the most advanced practices available in the cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation field.
The AACVPR is the only organization that certifies cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation programs nationwide. Its certification program allows patients to seek out rehab programs considered among the best in the nation.
Cape Fear Valley’s rehab program underwent a six-month application process, requiring extensive documentation of all staffing, credentialing, patient care plans and program practices. The re-accreditation was granted Aug. 31. It was the third time Cape Fear Valley has received AACVPR certification.
Founded in 1985, the AACVPR's mission is to reduce morbidity, mortality and disability from cardiovascular and pulmonary disease through education, prevention, rehabilitation, research and disease management. Central to the core mission is improvement in quality of life for patients and their families.
The three-year certification recognizes Cape Fear Valley’s commitment to quality treatment and improved patient outcomes. Certified AACVPR programs offer the most advanced practices available in the cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation field.
The AACVPR is the only organization that certifies cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation programs nationwide. Its certification program allows patients to seek out rehab programs considered among the best in the nation.
Cape Fear Valley’s rehab program underwent a six-month application process, requiring extensive documentation of all staffing, credentialing, patient care plans and program practices. The re-accreditation was granted Aug. 31. It was the third time Cape Fear Valley has received AACVPR certification.
Founded in 1985, the AACVPR's mission is to reduce morbidity, mortality and disability from cardiovascular and pulmonary disease through education, prevention, rehabilitation, research and disease management. Central to the core mission is improvement in quality of life for patients and their families.
Tart Appointed Outpatient Pharmacy Director
FAYETTEVILLE – Chris Tart, Pharm.D., has been appointed Director of Outpatient Pharmacy Services at Cape Fear Valley Health.
The Roseboro native has more than 11 years of pharmacy experience and joined the health system in 2005. He previously held the position of Pharmacist-Manager at Health Pavilion North. Prior to that, he was a Pharmacist with Matthews Drugs in Clinton.
Tart received his Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy in Chapel Hill.
In his new role, he will be responsible for Cape Fear Valley Health’s four outpatient pharmacy locations: Valley Pharmacy, Center Pharmacy, Health Pavilion North Pharmacy, and Cumberland County Medication Access Program Pharmacy.
The Roseboro native has more than 11 years of pharmacy experience and joined the health system in 2005. He previously held the position of Pharmacist-Manager at Health Pavilion North. Prior to that, he was a Pharmacist with Matthews Drugs in Clinton.
Tart received his Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy in Chapel Hill.
In his new role, he will be responsible for Cape Fear Valley Health’s four outpatient pharmacy locations: Valley Pharmacy, Center Pharmacy, Health Pavilion North Pharmacy, and Cumberland County Medication Access Program Pharmacy.
Medical Center Expanding Emergency Department
FAYETTEVILLE – Cape Fear Valley Medical Center will expand its adult Emergency Department into space currently occupied by the Children’s Emergency Department. The move will take effect midnight Sunday, Aug. 7.
Moving the children’s ED enables the adult Emergency Department to expand and improve flow, thereby decreasing wait times. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center’s Emergency Department is consistently one of the Top 100 busiest in the nation.
“Our Emergency Department is on track to see more than 130,000 patient visits this year,” said Mike Nagowski, Cape Fear Valley CEO. “That’s an increase of more than 7 percent over last year.”
As a result of the expansion, the Children’s Emergency Department will move into newly renovated space on the Melrose Road side of the medical center. The expanded Children’s Emergency Department will have 17 rooms, two resuscitation rooms and four observation rooms.
Free parking will be available in the Melrose parking lot in front of the new Children’s Emergency Department.
Moving the children’s ED enables the adult Emergency Department to expand and improve flow, thereby decreasing wait times. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center’s Emergency Department is consistently one of the Top 100 busiest in the nation.
“Our Emergency Department is on track to see more than 130,000 patient visits this year,” said Mike Nagowski, Cape Fear Valley CEO. “That’s an increase of more than 7 percent over last year.”
As a result of the expansion, the Children’s Emergency Department will move into newly renovated space on the Melrose Road side of the medical center. The expanded Children’s Emergency Department will have 17 rooms, two resuscitation rooms and four observation rooms.
Free parking will be available in the Melrose parking lot in front of the new Children’s Emergency Department.
Cape Fear Valley Hospitals Receive ENERGY STAR Rating
FAYETTEVILLE – Two Cape Fear Valley Health hospitals have been awarded ENERGY STAR certification. The prestigious rating is the national symbol for superior energy efficiency, cost reduction and environmental protection.
The U.S. Departments of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency awards the certification to products and facilities that meet stringent energy efficiency guidelines intended to reduce energy costs and consumption. To qualify, a rating of 75 out of 100 points must be met, based on electrical, natural gas, water and fuel oil efficiency. This data is validated by an independent engineer prior to submission for ENERGY STAR approval.
Just three North Carolina hospitals have received ENERGY STAR certification. The two belonging to Cape Fear Valley Health are Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and Bladen County Hospital. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center scored 85 and Bladen County Hospital scored 79. The scores place both facilities in the top 15 percent of energy-efficient hospitals nationwide.
Cape Fear Valley Health has been able to improve its energy performance while maintaining high standards of quality for patients and visitors, while also improving the health system’s bottom line.
Fred McMillan, Director of Engineering, says energy conservation measures save Cape Fear Valley Health up to $1.2 million a year.
“I couldn’t be more proud,” says McMillan, “of my engineering team whose hard work made this possible. We’ve been working on this initiative since 2008.”
The U.S. Departments of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency awards the certification to products and facilities that meet stringent energy efficiency guidelines intended to reduce energy costs and consumption. To qualify, a rating of 75 out of 100 points must be met, based on electrical, natural gas, water and fuel oil efficiency. This data is validated by an independent engineer prior to submission for ENERGY STAR approval.
Just three North Carolina hospitals have received ENERGY STAR certification. The two belonging to Cape Fear Valley Health are Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and Bladen County Hospital. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center scored 85 and Bladen County Hospital scored 79. The scores place both facilities in the top 15 percent of energy-efficient hospitals nationwide.
Cape Fear Valley Health has been able to improve its energy performance while maintaining high standards of quality for patients and visitors, while also improving the health system’s bottom line.
Fred McMillan, Director of Engineering, says energy conservation measures save Cape Fear Valley Health up to $1.2 million a year.
“I couldn’t be more proud,” says McMillan, “of my engineering team whose hard work made this possible. We’ve been working on this initiative since 2008.”
Sessoms Wins DAISY Award
ELIZABETHTOWN – Audra Sessoms, RN, has won Cape Fear Valley Health’s Daisy Award for Extraordinary Nurses.
Sessoms, a Surgical Services Nurse at Bladen County Hospital, won for going above and beyond to help an outpatient admitted to another facility. The patient suffers from a chronic condition that requires medication and therapy the patient was denied at the new facility.
The patient’s family contacted Sessoms and pleaded for her to intervene because they feared for the patient’s health and safety. Sessoms agreed and contacted the patient’s new physician to explain the situation.
The patient’s treatment was eventually changed and Sessoms continued to follow up with the patient and her family to ensure she was OK.
For her efforts, Sessoms was presented a commemorative DAISY award, a hand-made figurine from Africa, and enough Cinnabon cinnamon rolls for her unit.
The Daisy Award is part of the DAISY Foundation’s program to recognize extraordinary efforts nurses perform everyday. The not-for-profit organization is based in Glen Ellen, Calif., and was established by family members of the late J. Patrick Barnes. The 33-year-old died in 1999 from a little-known autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura.
Barnes requested Cinnobon cinnamon rolls for him and his nurses shortly before his death to thank his caregivers for their efforts. With the help of Cinnabon’s parent company, FOCUS Brands, the Daisy Foundation carries on this tradition by serving Cinnabons to all the nurses in a winning nurse’s unit.
Sessoms, a Surgical Services Nurse at Bladen County Hospital, won for going above and beyond to help an outpatient admitted to another facility. The patient suffers from a chronic condition that requires medication and therapy the patient was denied at the new facility.
The patient’s family contacted Sessoms and pleaded for her to intervene because they feared for the patient’s health and safety. Sessoms agreed and contacted the patient’s new physician to explain the situation.
The patient’s treatment was eventually changed and Sessoms continued to follow up with the patient and her family to ensure she was OK.
For her efforts, Sessoms was presented a commemorative DAISY award, a hand-made figurine from Africa, and enough Cinnabon cinnamon rolls for her unit.
The Daisy Award is part of the DAISY Foundation’s program to recognize extraordinary efforts nurses perform everyday. The not-for-profit organization is based in Glen Ellen, Calif., and was established by family members of the late J. Patrick Barnes. The 33-year-old died in 1999 from a little-known autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura.
Barnes requested Cinnobon cinnamon rolls for him and his nurses shortly before his death to thank his caregivers for their efforts. With the help of Cinnabon’s parent company, FOCUS Brands, the Daisy Foundation carries on this tradition by serving Cinnabons to all the nurses in a winning nurse’s unit.
Bladen County Hospital Lab Receives Accreditation
ELIZABETHTOWN – Bladen County Hospital Laboratory recently passed a comprehensive inspection and was awarded accreditation by The Joint Commission on Healthcare Organizations.
The two-year accreditation was granted in March after a rigorous two-day, on-site inspection from a commission surveyor.
The Joint Commission evaluated the laboratory’s performance in complying with nearly 300 quality control standards, related to quality control, safety, infection control, leadership, management and ongoing performance improvement.
Bladen County Hospital Laboratory has 11 employees and performs chemistry, hematology, microbiology and blood bank testing for the hospital and clinical offices within the Bladen Health Care system.
The Joint Commission is the gold standard in healthcare accreditation. It accredits more than 18,000 healthcare organizations nationwide, including approximately 3,000 clinical laboratories.
The two-year accreditation was granted in March after a rigorous two-day, on-site inspection from a commission surveyor.
The Joint Commission evaluated the laboratory’s performance in complying with nearly 300 quality control standards, related to quality control, safety, infection control, leadership, management and ongoing performance improvement.
Bladen County Hospital Laboratory has 11 employees and performs chemistry, hematology, microbiology and blood bank testing for the hospital and clinical offices within the Bladen Health Care system.
The Joint Commission is the gold standard in healthcare accreditation. It accredits more than 18,000 healthcare organizations nationwide, including approximately 3,000 clinical laboratories.
Thayer Named 8 South Manager
FAYETTEVILLE – Jackie Thayer, RN, has been appointed Patient Care Manager for 8 South at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center.
The native of Ludington, Mich., joined Cape Fear Valley Health in 2005 as a Staff Nurse in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit. She previously served as Interim Patient Care Manager for 8 South. Prior to that, she served as a Lead Charge Nurse in the Intensive Care Unit and as a Resource Nurse on 5 South.
Thayer received her associate’s degree in nursing from Fayetteville Technical Community College. She is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Fayetteville State University.
Her new duties will include overseeing patient care on 8 South, a 34-bed medical/surgical unit.
The native of Ludington, Mich., joined Cape Fear Valley Health in 2005 as a Staff Nurse in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit. She previously served as Interim Patient Care Manager for 8 South. Prior to that, she served as a Lead Charge Nurse in the Intensive Care Unit and as a Resource Nurse on 5 South.
Thayer received her associate’s degree in nursing from Fayetteville Technical Community College. She is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Fayetteville State University.
Her new duties will include overseeing patient care on 8 South, a 34-bed medical/surgical unit.
Akins Appointed Cardiology Director
FAYETTEVILLE – Renee Akins, RN, BSN, MBA, has been appointed Cardiac Service Line Director at Cape Fear Valley Health.
The Georgia native has more than 19 years of healthcare experience and an extensive background in Cardiology.
She previously served as Executive Director of Cardiac Services at WellStar Health System in Atlanta, Ga., overseeing invasive and non-invasive cardiac departments at WellStar’s Cobb and Douglas hospitals. She was also an Assistant Vice President of the Emergency Department at the Cobb facility.
Prior to that, she served as a Medical Affairs Specialist with Cordis, a Johnson & Johnson Company, working with 24 interventional cardiology labs in Florida and Georgia.
Akins received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, Ga. She received her M.B.A. from American Intercontinental University in Dunwoody, Ga.
In her new position, Akins will oversee cardiac, interventional, diagnostic and rehabilitative procedures and surgeries performed through the Heart & Vascular Center.
The Georgia native has more than 19 years of healthcare experience and an extensive background in Cardiology.
She previously served as Executive Director of Cardiac Services at WellStar Health System in Atlanta, Ga., overseeing invasive and non-invasive cardiac departments at WellStar’s Cobb and Douglas hospitals. She was also an Assistant Vice President of the Emergency Department at the Cobb facility.
Prior to that, she served as a Medical Affairs Specialist with Cordis, a Johnson & Johnson Company, working with 24 interventional cardiology labs in Florida and Georgia.
Akins received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, Ga. She received her M.B.A. from American Intercontinental University in Dunwoody, Ga.
In her new position, Akins will oversee cardiac, interventional, diagnostic and rehabilitative procedures and surgeries performed through the Heart & Vascular Center.
Marshburn Appointed Vice President Of Nursing
FAYETTEVILLE – Debbie Marshburn, RN, BSN, MBA, has been appointed Vice President of Nursing at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center.
The Richlands native joined Cape Fear Valley Health in 1982 as an ICU Staff Nurse. She previously served as Interim Chief Nursing Officer. Prior to that, she served as Executive Director of Clinically Integrated Services.
As Vice President of Nursing, Marshburn will oversee nursing on Cape Fear Valley Medical Center’s campus.
Marshburn received her associate, Bachelor of Science and M.B.A. degrees from Fayetteville State University.
She will continue to serve as Interim Chief Nursing Officer, in addition to her new duties.
The Richlands native joined Cape Fear Valley Health in 1982 as an ICU Staff Nurse. She previously served as Interim Chief Nursing Officer. Prior to that, she served as Executive Director of Clinically Integrated Services.
As Vice President of Nursing, Marshburn will oversee nursing on Cape Fear Valley Medical Center’s campus.
Marshburn received her associate, Bachelor of Science and M.B.A. degrees from Fayetteville State University.
She will continue to serve as Interim Chief Nursing Officer, in addition to her new duties.
Cape Fear Valley Health Now Performing Robotic Surgery
FAYETTEVILLE – Cape Fear Valley Health recently set a milestone, performing the area’s first robotically assisted surgery.
Christian deBeck, M.D., Director of Medical Robotics, used the health system’s new da Vinci© Surgical System robot to perform a radical prostatectomy on a prostate cancer patient. The minimally invasive technique benefits patients through smaller incisions, less pain, faster healing and less infection risk.
The FDA approved the da Vinci system in 2006 for general laparoscopic procedures. It has since been successfully used in complex surgeries, ranging from bowel resections and hysterectomies to heart tissue ablation and mitral valve repair.
Like its historical namesake, the da Vinci robot uses unparalleled anatomical accuracy and innovation. Surgeons using the robot sit at a console equipped with a three-dimensional viewer that shows high-definition footage inside the patient’s body.
The surgeon’s hand movements are mimicked by the da Vinci’s pencil-sized probes, which are inserted into the patient through tiny incisions. The free-standing robot can even compensate for natural hand tremors, allowing for finer accuracy while operating.
Elizabeth Pope, Office Manager for Cape Fear Valley Urology, says prostate cancer patients operated on with the da Vinci system are typically discharged within 24 hours following surgery.
Dr. deBeck performed the health system’s first da Vinci surgery in May and has since performed several more using the system. Dr. Ravinder Annamaneni, a general surgeon, and Drs. Paul Sparzak and Arnold Barefoot, both obstetric/gynecologist surgeons, have also been credentialed to use the da Vinci© Surgical System.
Christian deBeck, M.D., Director of Medical Robotics, used the health system’s new da Vinci© Surgical System robot to perform a radical prostatectomy on a prostate cancer patient. The minimally invasive technique benefits patients through smaller incisions, less pain, faster healing and less infection risk.
The FDA approved the da Vinci system in 2006 for general laparoscopic procedures. It has since been successfully used in complex surgeries, ranging from bowel resections and hysterectomies to heart tissue ablation and mitral valve repair.
Like its historical namesake, the da Vinci robot uses unparalleled anatomical accuracy and innovation. Surgeons using the robot sit at a console equipped with a three-dimensional viewer that shows high-definition footage inside the patient’s body.
The surgeon’s hand movements are mimicked by the da Vinci’s pencil-sized probes, which are inserted into the patient through tiny incisions. The free-standing robot can even compensate for natural hand tremors, allowing for finer accuracy while operating.
Elizabeth Pope, Office Manager for Cape Fear Valley Urology, says prostate cancer patients operated on with the da Vinci system are typically discharged within 24 hours following surgery.
Dr. deBeck performed the health system’s first da Vinci surgery in May and has since performed several more using the system. Dr. Ravinder Annamaneni, a general surgeon, and Drs. Paul Sparzak and Arnold Barefoot, both obstetric/gynecologist surgeons, have also been credentialed to use the da Vinci© Surgical System.
Bladen County Hospital Adds New ED Position
FAYETTEVILLE – Bladen County Hospital has added a mid-level provider position to its Emergency Department staff to reduce patient wait times.
A mid-level provider is a physician assistant or nurse practitioner who provides patient care under a supervising physician.
Bladen County Hospital’s new mid-level provider will provide care for non-life threatening injuries.
Cameron Highsmith, Bladen County Hospital CEO, says the hospital monitors wait times and asks for patient feedback through surveys given to patients when they are discharged.
“Our goal is to give the highest quality care in the most efficient way,” said Highsmith.
A mid-level provider is a physician assistant or nurse practitioner who provides patient care under a supervising physician.
Bladen County Hospital’s new mid-level provider will provide care for non-life threatening injuries.
Cameron Highsmith, Bladen County Hospital CEO, says the hospital monitors wait times and asks for patient feedback through surveys given to patients when they are discharged.
“Our goal is to give the highest quality care in the most efficient way,” said Highsmith.
Ray Named CSICU Manager
FAYETTEVILLE – Shonda Ray, BSN, has been named Patient Care Manager for Cardiac Surgery Intensive Care Unit (CSICU) at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center.
The Sanford native joined Cape Fear Valley Health in 2004 and previously held the position of CSICU Resource Nurse.
Ray received her bachelor’s degree in Nursing from North Carolina Central University in Durham.
As Patient Care Manager, she will be responsible for all patient care services within CSICU.
The Sanford native joined Cape Fear Valley Health in 2004 and previously held the position of CSICU Resource Nurse.
Ray received her bachelor’s degree in Nursing from North Carolina Central University in Durham.
As Patient Care Manager, she will be responsible for all patient care services within CSICU.
Bladen County Hospital Digital Mammography Services Receive Accreditation
ELIZABETHTOWN – Bladen County Hospital’s new digital mammography unit has received full accreditation from the American College of Radiology.
The hospital offers the county’s only digital mammography services through the Women’s Diagnostic Center. The service has been available to the public since March.
“We are so pleased to have received full accreditation so quickly,” said Mindy Goldsmith, CRA, Director of Radiology. “We have had a great response from patients with this new technology.”
Digital mammography uses digital images rather than traditional film images. The digital images are screened by a Computer-Aided Detection system that detects small anomalies or suspicious growths that may go unnoticed with traditional film.
To schedule a digital mammogram, please call the Women’s Diagnostic Center at (910) 862-1131.
The hospital offers the county’s only digital mammography services through the Women’s Diagnostic Center. The service has been available to the public since March.
“We are so pleased to have received full accreditation so quickly,” said Mindy Goldsmith, CRA, Director of Radiology. “We have had a great response from patients with this new technology.”
Digital mammography uses digital images rather than traditional film images. The digital images are screened by a Computer-Aided Detection system that detects small anomalies or suspicious growths that may go unnoticed with traditional film.
To schedule a digital mammogram, please call the Women’s Diagnostic Center at (910) 862-1131.
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