A Message From the Chief Nursing Officer

Let me just say how proud I am to walk in this community and often hear great stories about the care we provide. I am proud of the nursing team we have at Research Medical Center. We have numerous accomplishments and a dedicated team who provides award-winning, quality care to our patients and the community we serve.

For your consideration, I am providing factual data and a list of accomplishments that you all have helped us achieve at Research Medical Center. These accomplishments speak for themselves and prove that we are safe, our patients receive world-class care and we have achieved national recognition for these and other efforts. It has been through our own internal hard work and dedication that Research Medical Center is recognized as a premier medical facility in the Midwest and one of the region’s providers of choice for health issues.

Some of our accomplishments include:

• Missouri Award of Excellence for Patient Safety in 2011 and 2009
• 20% increase in employee engagement throughout the hospital over the past five years
• 117% improvement in turnover rate over five years
• 25% improvement in patient satisfaction over the past five years
• Numerous Joint Commission accreditations and certifications in heart failure, stroke and cancer care
• American Heart Association Triple Gold recognition for heart and stroke

I believe that part of the reason for the success of many of these accomplishments is due to our active Shared Governance nursing councils. These Councils offer leadership to their peers through:

• Nurse Executive and Nurse Practice Councils
• Nursing Quality Peer Review Council
• Nurse Retention and Nurse Research Councils
• Professional Development and Education Council
• Outpatient and Regulatory Readiness Councils

These are high-functioning, peer-led workgroups who are making a difference in the processes and improvements at Research Medical Center.

Research Medical Center has a strong culture of professional, high-quality care that has been provided to our community and the patients we serve for 125 years. I want to thank the nurses and the entire healthcare team for the outstanding care they provide to our patients every day.

Cindy Johnson, RN, BASN, MHA
Chief Nursing Officer
Research Medical Center

Rockhill Greens Groundbreaking Ceremony

The official launch of Rockhill Greens took place last week with the demolition of the 6601 A building. Rockhill Greens will integrate senior housing and commercial businesses on the Research Brookside Campus.

Matt Sogard Named Chief Operating Officer

Research Medical Center recently named Matt Sogard as its chief operating officer effective February 1, 2012. Matt has extensive experience in operations and healthcare administration that will serve as a great asset in his new role at Research Medical Center as he continues to develop and lead our operational excellence.

Since 2005, Matt has been in an administrative role with Presbyterian/St. Luke’s Medical Center and Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children, an HCA-HealthONE facility, in Denver, Colorado. Since 2008, he has held the position of chief operating officer. His enterprise-wide responsibilities have included operational, clinical and financial performance for perioperative, imaging, laboratory and other hospital services. He has led numerous capital improvement projects and drove the completion of many operational improvement initiatives including leading the development and construction of the $150M Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children. As the chief administrator of the pediatric hospital within a hospital, he led the strategic planning and medical staff development for pediatric and neonatal services.

Matt has also driven the hospital’s growth teams, led employee engagement and culture refinement efforts such as leadership development teams, a hospital recycling program, 100 Fixes in 100 Days, employee appreciation lunches and formal leadership rounding.

Prior to Presbyterian/St. Luke’s Medical Center and Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children, Matt was with the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa from 2004 to 2005.

Matt obtained a master of health administration and master of business administration from the University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa. His bachelor of science in biology was obtained from Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa. Matt is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

He is married with four children, and is an avid sports fan. Please join us in welcoming Matt to our team.

VITAS Innovative Hospice Care of Kansas City Begins Construction at Research Medical Center

Facility Designed to Meet the Community’s Needs for High-Quality Hospice Services for Terminally Ill Patients with Complex Symptoms

VITAS Innovative Hospice Care of Kansas City today announced the ground-breaking of construction this month of its first local inpatient hospice unit (IPU) at Research Medical Center (RMC). Designed to meet the community’s needs for hospice services for terminally ill patients with complex symptoms, the facility is slated to be completed and begin accepting patients in March 2012.

The project, located on the seventh floor of RMC at 2316 East Meyer Boulevard, will create in its first year approximately 25 new jobs at the VITAS IPU. Like all other VITAS IPUs, the 9,000-square-foot, 16-bed facility is being built to ensure maximum comfort for patients and their families, with amenities that are designed to feel like home and include kitchen, dining and sitting areas as well as a “serenity room” for quiet contemplation and meditation.

“We look forward to providing the high-quality, compassionate hospice care service for which VITAS is known and that our patients and their families expect,” said VITAS of Kansas City General Manager Julia Vandervelde, who has worked for VITAS for four years.

“Our community has an unmet need for inpatient hospice beds,” explains Susan Shreeve, chief financial officer at Research Medical Center. “We are very pleased to be able to work with VITAS to provide this service to our community. It is a great benefit to our patients and their families.”

Research Medical Center Earns ACR Accreditation

Research Medical Center has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in stereotactic breast biopsy as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology (ACR).

A breast biopsy is performed to remove cells — either surgically or through a less invasive procedure involving a hollow needle — from an area in the breast suspected to be cancerous. These cells are examined under a microscope to determine a diagnosis. In stereotactic breast biopsy, a special mammography machine helps guide the radiologist’s instruments to the site of an abnormal growth.

The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. It is awarded only to facilities meeting ACR Practice Guidelines and Technical Standards after a peer-review evaluation by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. Image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures, and quality assurance programs are assessed. The findings are reported to the ACR Committee on Accreditation, which subsequently provides the practice with a comprehensive report they can use for continuous practice improvement.

The ACR is a national professional organization serving more than 34,000 diagnostic/interventional radiologists, radiation oncologists, nuclear medicine physicians, and medical physicists with programs focusing on the practice of medical imaging and radiation oncology and the delivery of comprehensive health care services.

Midwest Hand Center Performs Intricate Surgeries to Treat Traumatic Injuries

Vik Zadoo, MD, FACS
Medical Director
Midwest Hand Center

Like many of us, Glen Moore took his hands for granted. They were there when he needed them—whether it was operating a large drill press at his manufacturing job, working on cars, creating one of his wooden wishing wells for family and friends, or playing video games on his PlayStation. The 56-year-old Grandview resident didn’t think much about his hands until one February morning when he was injured on the job.

Something went wrong with the drill press Moore has operated for decades. His left gloved hand was caught by the machine, which swung him around so that his right hand dragged across the press, cutting into tendons, tissue, and bone.  Moore’s supervisor called 9-1-1, and Moore was quickly transported to Research Medical Center’s Emergency Department.

From the minute he was rolled into the ER, Moore knew he was in good hands.

“I sat in the examining room, trying not to think about my hand,” says Moore, who knew he had been severely injured. “The nurses and physicians kept me calm until Dr. Zadoo walked in and introduced himself.”

Vic P. Zadoo, MD, FACS, is medical director of the Midwest Hand Center at Research Medical Center and is only one of a few doctors in the Kansas City area who specializes in microvascular hand surgery. This premier hand center treats traumatic hand injuries—such as Moore’s—in addition to offering elective procedures and treating upper extremity injuries.

That day in the ER at Research Medical Center, Dr. Zadoo quickly determined that Moore’s injury had not only damaged some of his vital wrist bones, but also the link between his hand and wrist had been broken, destroying the tendons that raise fingers.

“Like many hand injuries, Glen required a series of surgeries to repair, restore and reconnect bones, tissue and tendons,” says Dr. Zadoo, who trained at the prestigious Christine Kleinart Institute in Louisville, Ky.

The first surgery Moore underwent took four hours, and Dr. Zadoo was confident that his patient—whom he describes as tough and determined—would eventually return to the job and activities he loves.

“Glen has a motivation and drive that really helped him in the recovery process from his four hand surgeries,” says Dr. Zadoo. “He was willing to work hard in the rehabilitation phase, collaborating with his physical therapist to transition back into everyday life.”

The Hand Center uses advanced technology including the LEICA OH4, a sophisticated microscope that combines Swiss optics and Japanese robotics. This device, among others, was used in Moore’s series of operations to restore the use of his hand and fingers.

“It’s similar to a big video game, and helps us reattach the complicated and microscopic network of blood vessels,” says Dr. Zadoo. 

Moore, who went through a six-month program of intensive physical therapy at the Research Medical Center Brookside Campus, appreciates the relationship he developed with the straight-shooting surgeon who brought life back to his damaged hand. “I told Dr. Zadoo it was important how honest he was with me every step of the way,” he says. 

Dr. Zadoo says the success of Glenn’s outcome is a two-way relationship.

“With Glen, it’s about the physician-patient relationship and his remarkable attitude that contributed to a successful outcome,” says Dr. Zadoo.

Moore, who has returned to his job doing light-duty work and also can now play video games—has a few wishing wells on his drawing board. These days, he doesn’t take his hands for granted anymore.

“They’re precious to me,” says Moore.  “I’m glad Dr. Zadoo thought so, too.”

For more information about the Midwest Hand Center at Research Medical Center, visit www.midwesthandcenter.com.

How Does Research Medical Center Compare in Heart Care?

What are Core Measures?

Core measures are a set of care processes which were initially developed by The Joint Commission, the accrediting body responsible for setting standards for healthcare. The purpose of these standards is to improve the quality of healthcare by implementing a national, standardized performance measurement system. These measures will now be used  by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for reimbursement because the evidence has supported the theory that by using these  measures, there is reduced risk of complications, prevention of recurrences and otherwise standardized treatment for better patient care.

Comparing Performance

Hospitals across the country have been measured and compared by The Joint Commission on its performance in these Core Measures. This data “lags” so that all facilities can be compared equally across time. The information is posted to the Joint Commission website and the www.cms.gov website, on hospital compare. 

What are each of the Core Measures?

There are four categories (acute myocardial infarction, community-acquired pneumonia, congestive heart failure, and surgical care improvement project). Under each category, key actions are listed that represent the most widely accepted, research-based care process for appropriate care.

What are Core Measures and Why are They Important?

• In 1999 the Joint Commission (a governing body that accredits healthcare institutions) created a Cardiovascular Conditions Clinical Advisory Panel in a quest for “core” measures of hospital care.
• A Core Measure is an evidenced-based performance measure that is a process measure (how care is provided). 
• In 2001, the Joint Commission announced an expansion to four of these “core measures” which are: acute myocardial infarction (heart attack), heart failure, pneumonia and surgical care improvement. 
• The Joint Commission partnered with CMS and this became the basis for the 7th Scope of Work and for accreditation of hospitals. 
• Hospitals started collecting data on July 1, 2002. 
• In November 2003, CMS and the Joint Commission agreed on one common set of measure specifications. 
• Healthcare facilities must meet the four measures to be in compliance with both organizations. 
• 70 percent of the reimbursement from CMS to hospitals will center on meeting these measures. 
• For Joint Commission accreditation after January 2012, healthcare facilities must achieve at least an 85 percent compliance on 22 of these measures in order to pass its accreditation. 

Everyone plays a role in helping their organization to achieve this level of success. We owe it to ourselves and to our patients.

"No Excuses. Get Screened."

According to the American Cancer Society, screening exams for early breast cancer detection—before they start to cause symptoms—is one of the best ways to fight the disease. Midwest Breast Care, a service of HCA Midwest Health System—the largest healthcare network in Kansas City—is marking the 26th anniversary of Breast Cancer Awareness Month by emphasizing the importance of early detection through its “No Excuses. Get Screened.” campaign.

Goppert-Trinity Family Care

Since 1974, Goppert-Trinity Family Care has served Kansas City families from its location at the Research Brookside Campus. Thousands of patients depend on Goppert-Trinity Family Care each year to meet their family's healthcare needs. Call (816) 276-7600 to schedule your appointment today!

Rick Brown, MD, FACC, Joins Midwest Heart Associates

Rick Brown, MD, FACC, has joined Midwest Heart Associates and the medical staff of Research Medical Center and Research Belton Hospital. Dr. Brown has 13 years experience providing care for cardiovascular patients in the Kansas City area. 

Dr. Brown practices as an invasive, non-interventional cardiologist. Clinical skills include pacemaker and device implantation, nuclear cardiology, transthoracic/transesophageal echocardiography, isation, advanced lipid management, and preventative cardiology. Dr. Brown received his medical degree from the University of Kansas Medical Center where he also completed his internal medicine residency and cardiovascular fellowship.  

The addition of Dr. Brown will allow Dr. Carrie Totta to serve the Cass/Harrisonville community on a full-time basis. Dr. Totta will also provide back-up for Dr. Brown in the Belton area. This deployment will enhance cardiovascular services and quality for both markets.

Dr. Brown is now accepting new patients. To schedule a patient appointment, call:

• Research Medical Center Location - (816) 276-4800 
• Research Belton Hospital Multi-Specialty Clinic - (816) 348-1291

Jessica Mowry, MD, Joins Brookside Family Medical Group

Jessica Mowry, MD, has recently joined Brookside Family Medical Group. Specializing in obstetrics, including prenatal care, labor management, postpartum and newborn care, Dr. Mowry provides the full scope of medicine for the entire family.

She received her medical degree at the Medical School for International Health - Ben Gurion University in Israel and served her residency through the Research Family Medicine Residency program.

Dr. Mowry is accepting new patients and accepts all major insurance plans. Call (816) 276-6405 to schedule an appointment. 

Julie Wood, MD, Elected to American Academy of Family Physicians Board of Directors

Julie K. Wood, MD, FAAFP, a family physician in Kansas City, Mo., has been elected to the board of directors of the American Academy of Family Physicians. The AAFP represents 100,300 physicians and medical students nationwide. Wood was elected to a three-year term by the AAFP’s governing body, the Congress of Delegates.

As a board member of the AAFP, Wood will advocate on behalf of family physicians and patients nationwide to inspire positive change in the U.S. healthcare system.

Wood has been a practicing family physician for nearly 20 years. She is currently in practice as associate director of Research Family Medicine Residency Program in Kansas City, Mo., where she is especially involved in the maternity care curriculum and serves as the medical director of Goppert-Trinity Family Care, a 55-provider outpatient clinic. Wood is the physician lead for their clinic’s involvement in a multi-center patient-centered medical home pilot project and is especially enthusiastic about training physicians how to practice in the medical home.

A member of the AAFP since 1988, Wood has served on numerous committees and commissions, including the Commission on Public Health and Science, the Commission on Health Care Services, the Commission on Membership and Member Services, and the Committee for Special Constituencies. She most recently served as chair of the Commission on Public Health and Science.

A member of the Missouri Academy of Family Physicians since 1988, Wood has held numerous positions on the board of directors, including a term as president. She currently serves as the chapter’s delegate to the AAFP Congress of Delegates and also serves on the Missouri AFP Education Committee. Wood also served as the chair of VIGOR (Volunteers Investigating Growth Opportunities and Restructuring), a committee to revitalize and strategically plan for the future of the Missouri AFP.

Throughout her career, Wood has been active in promoting and spreading awareness concerning breastfeeding. She currently serves on the AAFP’s Breastfeeding Advisory Committee and represents the AAFP to the United States Breastfeeding Committee.

Wood earned her undergraduate degree and her medical degree from the University of Missouri – Kansas City. Wood then completed her residency at Via Christi-St. Francis Family Medicine Residency Program in Wichita, Kan. She is board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and has the AAFP Degree of Fellow, an earned degree awarded to family physicians for distinguished service and continuing medical education.

EMS Great Save Celebration

First responders who were first on the scene to aid 17-year-old Jackson Hill following a severe motorcycle accident on Highway 13 near Warrensburg, Mo., were reunited with Jackson and his family. On June 13, ambulances from Warrensburg responded to the accident which left Jackson without a pulse or blood pressure. In addition, the teen lost his right leg below the knee at the scene. Life Flight was called to transfer him to Research Medical Center’s Level I Trauma Center where he spent three weeks in the Intensive Care Unit and underwent multiple surgeries. Jackson has remained in the hospital, working on his recovery.

Jackson Hill surrounded by his mother and members of the Johnson County
Ambulance District EMS Team   

H. Scott Bjerke, MD, trauma surgeon and director of the Level I Trauma Center at Research Medical Center, presents Jackson with a special Superman T-shirt

Vascular Care at Research Medical Center

Check out our latest video featuring Joe Cates, MD, general and vascular surgeon. Research Medical Center operates the largest abdominal aortic aneurysm stent graft program in the region.

Research Brookside Campus Redevelopment Update

A local Kansas City developer, Rockhill Greens, has purchased 13 under-utilized acres of the Research Brookside Campus from Research Medical Center, located at 6601 Rockhill Road in Kansas City, Missouri. 

The concept for the new development is an environmentally responsible community including residential housing and commercial businesses, seamlessly integrated into the existing medical uses that will continue to be offered on the Research Brookside Campus. The development will promote a healthy-living life-style and sustainable design with parks, gardens, landscaping, and walking trails throughout the campus. The total acreage of the Research Brookside Campus is approximately 25 acres. Research Medical Center will retain the 6675 Holmes medical office building, the former hospital tower building and the connecting auditorium.

Some possible projects being proposed for the new development include assisted living and independent-living senior housing, adult day care and memory care facilities, data center/back office operations, market-rate townhouses or work-force housing, healthy-living themed retail such as a restaurant, coffee shop, organic grocery store, health club, and other commercial uses that embrace socially and environmentally responsible community development.

“We look forward to creating a unique mixed use community that focuses on a balance of sustainability, community programming, and favorable returns for our investors,” says Kelley Hrabe, president of The Net Giver, who will be the project manager for the development. 

Tony Krsnich, vice president of Real Estate and Finance with Landmark Investment Group, leads the investment team for the development. “We are Brookside residents and look forward to redeveloping and integrating this project into the surrounding community,” states Mr. Krsnich. 

“We have been working closely with the development team for over three years now,” explains Kevin J. Hicks, chief executive officer of Research Medical Center and the Research Brookside Campus. “We are very pleased the result of this working relationship is an agreement to help develop the Research Brookside Campus into a first class sustainably-designed community.” Research Medical Center, along with the support of HCA, Inc., continues to reinvest in the outpatient and emergency services offered at the Research Brookside Campus, reinforcing its commitment to providing a broad spectrum of healthcare services to the surrounding community.

“HCA Midwest Health System is proud to support the efforts of this community-based redevelopment project. We’re looking forward to expanding our healthcare services on the Research Brookside Campus to continue to grow and meet the needs of the community,” said M.L. Lagarde, president of HCA Midwest Health System.