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HRMC installs XERO viewer for faster physician access to imaging reports

May 19, 2013 - Hunt Regional Healthcare has become one of the first healthcare systems in the nation to upgrade its system of communications with its physicians and its internal organization regarding patient care.

In April, Hunt Regional Medical Center installed AGFA Healthcare's Cardiology PACS and XERO Viewer to deliver a consolidated solution for rapidly viewing digital images, cardiac ECHO's and EKG's generated at any HRH facility in Hunt and Rockwall counties.

With the addition, physicians are able to more quickly and securely access the nearly 100,000 imaging exams and reports done each year, on virtually any Hunt Regional facility device -- whether the exam was done at Hunt Regional Open Imaging of Greenville or Rockwall, Hunt Regional Medical Center, Hunt Regional Community Hospital of Commerce or Hunt Regional Medical Plaza in Quinlan. Because the information is web-based, physicians can access the results in real time.

Tim Robinson, PACS coordinator at HRMC, says the program is Health Information Privacy (HIPAA) compliant while giving physicians a faster and easier way to make referrals, whether they are working at their office computer or their tablet PC. Robinson said the system is easy to access and easy to use. “What we have done is integrate radiology and cardiology PACS with XERO Viewer. XERO enables consolidation of images and other pertinent patient information and makes the information readily accessible for referring physicians and for all of our sites,” said Robinson.

“XERO Viewer gives us the ability to communicate with consultants in the Metroplex and beyond while we are actually treating the patient here in Greenville,” said Dr. R. Lynn Rea, HRMC chief of staff and emergency department physician. “We’re offered better collaborative opportunities with other physicians and specialists. We can share the images even when we’re miles away.

“You could say a picture really is ‘worth a thousand words,’” Rea said.

"Unlike our competition, there is no need to install software on the doctors’ computers. If they have internet access, they can use XERO. It truly sets us apart from all other imaging centers,” said Micah Parks, marketing coordinator for Hunt Regional Open Imaging.

"I serve a pediatric clinic that only uses Apple products, and with our previous
PACS viewer the clinic had to install parallels in order to view images and reports. Now with the new XERO they are able to access their reports and images on their iPads while seeing their patients.

"We recently had an issue with our reports being faxed to our referring offices. The offices that had access to XERO were able to pull their reports without any problems. It is a great backup for both patient images and reports," said Parks.

Those reports include CT (Computed Tomography), X-ray, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), US (Ultrasonography), NM (Nuclear Medicine), RF (Radiographic Fluoroscopy), Mammography, and cardiology exams ECHO (Echocardiography), ECG (Electrocardiography) and Cardiac Catheterization (Cath) Lab.

"Installing this PACS upgrade has made a huge difference in patient care opportunities as well as productivity," said John Ervin, Hunt Regional Healthcare Imaging Director. "Our physicians simply go to a single URL (Uniform Resource Locator) using a secure link to access images. Not only is it easier for the physicians to get access to the information, but we're able to get images to them a lot quicker."

By allowing physicians to access patient images on any internet capable mobile device, such as Apple iPad®, Hunt Regional Healthcare has improved the service it provides to the physicians, said Ervin.

"Doctors have more time to interact with patients because they are able to obtain images in real time," said Bob Craske, Senior Marketing Manager, Agfa HealthCare U.S. "Because the results are available much faster, physicians can have both the image and diagnostic report by the time the patient returns from having the exam, allowing for informed patient care."

Mobile Mammography Unit now serving Hunt County

May 10, 2013 - Hunt Regional Healthcare, noted for its strides in bringing awareness to cancer detection and treatment through its Women’s Imaging Center and the Lou and Jack Finney Cancer Center, “is now taking its show on the road.”

In April, the Mobile Mammography Unit, dedicated to the memory of cancer survivor Nita “Tubby” Adkisson, began its journey throughout the Hunt County area, bringing new healthcare opportunities to the more than 50 percent of women in the county who have never had a mammogram.

Since early detection of breast cancer is the key to successful treatment, the mammogram is one of the surest ways to make that happen, says John Ervin, director of the Imaging Center at Hunt Regional Medical Center.

When breast cancer is caught at Stage 1, the five-year survival rate is almost 90 percent, according to statistics from the American Cancer Society. However, the news is not so good when the cancer is discovered at a later stage. When it is first detected at State 4, the five-year survival rate is only 15 percent, the statistics indicate.

Plans for the mobile unit were announced in December of 2012 when the Hunt Regional Healthcare Foundation kicked off its Help on Wheels campaign, with a goal of $300,000 to purchase the state-of-the-art mobile unit .

The unit has wasted no time hitting the road, having already visiting such locations as the Lone Oak Assembly of God, Sam Rayburn Student Center, L-3 Communications, Hunt Regional Community in Commerce (every first Wednesday), Caddo Mills Elementary, Van Sickle Baptist Church and Covidian in Commerce.

To schedule an appointment persons or groups should call 903-408- 5010. It is preferred that a minimum number of 12 appointments should be scheduled in order for the mobile unit to be sent to a specific site. Those sites may include churches, schools, workplaces, businesses or other nearby locations such as strip shopping centers.

When making an appointment, be prepared to give insurance information. Those with no health insurance will be directed to the nurse navigator at HRMC and she will direct persons to possible payment resources. Her number is 903-408-5720. Hospital officials note there are numerous resources available to cover the costs.

They also point out the mobile unit is for screening mammograms. If anyone with symptoms such as a lump, pain or discharge should see a doctor for an order to receive a diagnostic mammogram at the hospital.

Women age 40 or older should have an annual mammogram. Those younger than 40 who have a strong family history of breast cancer or other high risks should see a doctor for orders for a mammogram at the hospital.

The initiation of the Mobile Mammography Unit comes on the heels of the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) of the official designation of the HRMC Women’s Imaging Center as a breast center. This puts HRMC on the same level with Baylor Medical Center of Dallas and Medical City Dallas.

The center not only involves imaging but includes all the services for breast cancer care, from diagnostics to surgery to oncology.

The imaging center services provided to the mobile mammography unit was a factor in the accreditation.

“It takes a woman from beginning to end when it comes to treating and beating breast cancer. It’s the entire package,” says Judy Quan, HRMC education coordinator.

Before being accredited the local Breast Center underwent rigorous evaluations and reviews of its performance and compliance with NAPBC standards. The Center will monitor compliance with NAPBC standards to ensure quality care and undergo an on-site review every three years.

HRH Nurses of the year announced
by Susan Spoonemore

May 8, 2013 - Two exceptional nurses from Hunt Regional Healthcare were named 2013 “Nurse of the Year” on Wednesday. As part of National Nurses Week, all HRH nurses participated in the vote, which ended in a tie this year.

Madrina McMahan, RN of the Hunt Regional Medical Center Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Afton Smith, RN, of the HRMC Telemetry Unit accepted their awards at a reception held at Hunt Regional Medical Center.

Hunt Regional Healthcare administrator, Mike Klepin, gave praise to the two nurses as well as all HRH nurses. “I wish there was more than one week a year to recognize what our nurses do every day,” he said.

McMahan has been with HRMC for over 20 years. She is described by her coworkers as a dedicated nurse who is calming and soothing to the distressed parents of NICU patients.

Now a shift manager, Smith has been with the organization close to five years. She is known to be the first to assist when a patient asks for help.

National Nurses Week begins each year on May 6 and ends on May 12, the birth date of Florence Nightingale. It is one of the nation's largest healthcare events, recognizing the contributions and commitments nurses make and educating the public about the significant work they perform.

New Foundation board members

April 30, 2013 - The Hunt Regional Healthcare Foundation Board of Trustees welcomed 7 new board members to its ranks as they were sworn in on April 18 during the Foundation’s quarterly board meeting.

“I am so pleased to welcome new board members Matt Koger, Mary Jane Vance, Bonnie Dooley, Loretta Kibler, Renea Decker, Jerry Hutton and Fred Weidmann,” said Chair of the Foundation board Roz Lane.

Dr. Koger, a family practice physician, has been with Primary Care Associates (PCA) since 2000. He is a member of the American Medical Association, Texas Medical Association, and the American Academy of Family Practice. Dr. Koger lives in Greenville with his wife and four children. In his spare time he enjoys fishing and playing the guitar.

Dr. Mary Jane Vance is presently a consultant, author and speaker who has been educating Texas and the nation since 1955. She recently published a book titled “Mary of the Angels.” She currently resides in Greenville with husband Charles Vance.

Bonnie Dooley is owner of the Copier Connection, located at 10425 Wesley St, which she established in 1994. She lives in Greenville with husband Tim Dooley and they have two daughters.

Loretta Kibler was the Commerce Independent School District Superintendent from 1994-2001. Kibler has held numerous positions on many boards in the Tri-County area including Chair of Board for the Tri-County Special Education Shared Services, Region 10 Advisory Council, the Texas A&M University System and The Texas Education Agency Council of School Executives, and many more. Kibler currently resides in Commerce. She has two daughters and five grandchildren.

Renea Decker was a nurse at Hunt Regional Medical Center and its predecessors for 29 years, including serving as nursing director for the last two years before she retired. She is also a cancer survivor and an active cancer volunteer here in Greenville.

Jerry B. Hutton is a Professor Emeritus for Psychology and Special Education at Texas A&M University-Commerce. Hutton is an active member of the First United Methodist Church in Commerce and is currently member of Chancel Choir and Foundation Board. Hutton is married to Sandra Jeane Brumlow. They have five children and five grandchildren, and have been Hunt County residents since 2000.

Fred Weidmann is a retired vice president for General Dynamics Canada and a current Greenville Rotary program chair. He lives in Greenville with his wife Cheryl and they have three children.

“The willingness of these individuals to serve our community through this Foundation is something to be commended,” said Lane. “I look forward to working together on current and future healthcare endeavors for Hunt County.”

The HRH Foundation coordinates all fundraising activities on behalf of Hunt Regional Medical Center, Hunt Regional Community Hospital, and related programs and services administered by Hunt Regional Healthcare.

Hunt Regional Healthcare has always remained true to its goals of improving the health of the communities it serves while providing medical excellence and compassionate patient care through our medical facilities and outreach programs.

The Foundation strives to strengthen HRH medical programs and staff, to upgrade facilities, to acquire new, state-of-the-art equipment and technologies, and to address Hunt County’s emerging healthcare needs. The same can be said for the 7 new HRH Foundation trustees.

Loretta Kibler, Dr. Jerry Hutton, Renea Decker, Bonnie Dooley, Fred Weidmann, Dr. Mary Jane Vance, and Dr. Matt Koger joined the Hunt Regional Foundation Board on April 18.

Volunteer appreciation luncheon

by Samantha Henry

April 30, 2013 - In recognition of National Volunteer Week, Hunt Regional Healthcare (HRH) hosted an appreciation luncheon for the volunteers of the Greenville and Commerce hospital auxiliaries last week.

“The luncheon is our way of showing appreciation to the volunteers and to thank them for all of their hard work,” said Jeanye Roberts, coordinator of Volunteer Services.

To commemorate their years of service, the Commerce Auxiliary awarded Ann Blohm, Nora Chessher, June Dunn, Carolyn Lockhart and Nancy Talley five-year pins. Anita Berry, Billie Mills, Peggy Pressley, Sharon Sanders, Betty Spitler and Mona Towne received 10-year pins; Teddy Degelia, Don Hakala, Marcia Hakala and Frances Sartwell received 15-year pins.

The Greenville Auxiliary awarded Betty Epps, Sandra McWhorter, Sylvia Phillips with 50-hour pins. Billy Darnell and Sharon Porter received 100-hour pins. Karen McClellen, Linda Nuthcutt, Dot Warren and Mary Wilch received 200-hour pins. Beverly Bland, Nita Groket and Linda Johnson were each awarded 500-hour pins. Jan Lowe was recognized for her 1,000 hours; Polly Adams and Jane Asbury received pins for 1,500 hours of service, and Theressa Young received a 2,000-hour pin. Darlene Folks, Helen Rhea and Luther Smith each received 2,500-hour pins; Carolyn Smith received 3,500-hour pins, and Pearl McFarland and Janice McWhitter received 4,500-hour pins. Lori Green received her pin for 5,000 hours of service and Dorothy Keller earned one for her 5,500 hours.

Top honors for the Greenville Auxiliary went to Joyce Johnson and Alice Parsons. Johnson received her largest pin for 13,500 hours of service, 3000 of which were just last year. Parsons’ largest pin was for 45,000 hours of service, 3,500 of which were just this year.

As a way to give back to the community, the Greenville Auxiliary also awards scholarships to two high school students who are going into the medical field.

“I am very excited to say that this is the eleventh year that we have presented the scholarships to high school students,” said Roberts.

Alexandra Pope and Kerrie Lee Moore, both of Greenville, were the lucky students to receive the scholarships this year. Pope is planning to attend Paris Junior College and then Baylor with plans to study pediatric dentistry. Moore is headed to El Centro College in Dallas to study diagnostic medical sonography.

A big congratulations goes to both students for receiving the scholarships and to all of the volunteers who give their time to serve Hunt Regional Healthcare and its’ community in so many ways.

Graves named Employee of the Year

April 19, 2013 - Congratulations to Valorie Graves!

She was named Employee of the Year by the DFW Hospital Council Foundation.

Valorie is a valuable member of the Hunt Regional Medical Center food service team and a favorite among staff and visitors.

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month

The following information is provided by Prevent Child Abuse Texas

April 12. 2013 - Child abuse is one of the greatest tragedies of our times. It doesn't have to be. We can prevent it by building communities that are committed to families and the services they need to raise strong, healthy, and successful children.

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month and by participating you are joining thousands of communities, organizations and individuals across our nation who are putting children first.

Here are 5 suggestions to help prevent child abuse and neglect. Support the mission and vision of Prevent Child Abuse Texas:

1. Care enough to call! Call the Child Abuse Hotline if you suspect a child is being hurt. In Texas call 1-800-252-5400.

2. Be a positive and nurturing parent or caretaker and help other family members, friends and neighbors be positive parents too.

3. Make Children a priority. Make sure they are safe and have healthy environments.

4. Allow yourself a time-out when needed. Taking care of yourself is as important as taking care of your family.

5. Seek help if you need it. If you feel out of control or worried about your parenting, get help.

PARTICIPATE IN CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH

Tumor Board enhances cancer treatment at Hunt Regional

April 12, 2013 - “When a physician is baffled by a cancer case, the difference between life and death isn't always found in the radiology department or on the operating table. Sometimes, it's in a conference room,” writes Cheryl McEvoy, an editorial assistant with ADVANCE for Health Information Professionals.

At hospitals across the nation tumor boards have become an efficient and even life-saving part of the approach to what physicians have found to be a deciding factor in choosing the best course of treatment for cancer patients.

The job has its challenges, but with proper preparation, tumor boards can be engaging and life-saving.

To enhance its cancer treatment regimen at the Lou and Jack Finney Cancer Center of Hunt Regional Medical Center, officials have adopted just such a board. If there were any doubts about its effectiveness, that doubt has been erased, says John Ervin, Imaging Center director at HRMC.

A panel consisting of oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, surgeons, hospitalists and primary care physicians meet regularly to discuss treatment options for cancer patients whose atypical medical history or diagnosis prompts the need to develop a more complex treatment plan.

The panel reviews laboratory test results, images and imaging reports and treatment options to ensure that the most effective treatment plan is implemented.

When board members discuss a case, they bring the national treatment guidelines to the table, while strategizing individualized treatment plans for each individual patient.

“No cookie cutter treatment plans here,” says Judy Quan, HRMC education director. “It is evident that they give a great deal of thought to each step of the treatment plan, from diagnostics through the treatment phase and even into survivorship.

Dr. Rebecca M. Jankowski, general surgeon at HRMC, says the board is a valuable asset as a learning tool for those involved in the discussions. “It’s an opportunity to review what has gone on in a patient-treatment program, and to talk about upcoming cases,” she said following a recent meeting.

Jankowski is a member of a team of surgeons at HRMC that includes Dr. Josh Trussel and Dr. Josh Hamilton, who meet regularly with the board, which is chaired by Meera Shreedhara, the medical oncologist at the Lou and Jack Finney Cancer Center.

“What impresses me is the confidence the physicians have in each other and the mutual respect that is evident during these meetings,” said Sharon Sanders, employer relations representative for Hunt Regional Healthcare and a member of the Tumor Board. “As a cancer survivor, I’m certain patients facing cancer treatment can take great comfort in knowing what transpires in these sessions,” she said.

Multimedia presentations have become efficient and engaging fixtures at tumor board meetings. With digital media, a single presentation can display staging requirements, lab results and even compare films side-by-side.

Even though the physicians collaborate and communicate on a routine basis as they care for their patients, there is a special continuity and dynamics to the tumor board discussion forum, says Quan.

“Radiology brings images, pathology brings photos, and all doctors bring their knowledge and expertise. It is not unusual for primary care physicians or OB/GYN physicians who are involved in the patient’s care to also attend and participate in tumor board. The goal is for each medical provider involved in the patient’s care to be included in the round table discussions, said Quan.

The learning experience offered by tumor board is so significant that they recently received approval for CME credit for one tumor board per month, through Baylor ‘s CME program for regularly scheduled series.

The current goal, according to Quan, is to affiliate with the Commission on Cancer (CoC). Those standards require at least one surgeon, pathologist, radiologist and medical oncologist to attend, plus other site-specific specialists when appropriate, but a number of other hospital staff members -- from family physicians to hospice -- often elect to participate.

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