IN GOOD COMPANY Fall/Winter 2020 /// A publication of Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers
WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED State-of-the-Art academic medicine available in the South Bay
A WORD FROM OUR CHIEF EXECUTIVE treat patients with and without COVID-19. With widespread unemployment affecting our communities, we are also preparing to care for more people who may be uninsured or covered by Medi-
EDITORIAL STAFF
Cal. This will require us to revamp our operating
Chief Executive Garry Olney
model to ensure we can deliver high-quality services more affordably to more people regardless of their
Director, Marketing Andrew Werts
ability to pay. It is going to be a long road ahead, and we will
Editor Lori Nolan
need to dig deep. The unwavering dedication of our employees, physicians, and community to our
Development Officer Christopher “Chria” Hazlitt
Mission ensures that Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers remain as strong and vital as ever. The senior leadership team is laser focused on the needs of today and concurrently envisioning the needs of tomorrow. I am a firm believer that
I
n January, when one of our Providence medical
if we all pay close attention to the lessons we are
centers admitted the first known U.S. patient
learning through these unprecedented times—if we
with COVID-19, we knew we were in for a long
have the humbleness to learn from our mistakes
journey. Our caregivers and physicians have
and the confidence that we can improve—then
been on the frontlines ever since, and I remain
we can profile our future in ways that will benefit
incredibly proud of how they have stepped up to
our communities. We will be more organized,
the challenge. Their response has been best in
just, resilient and compassionate. This is not a
class! Our two medical centers, in Torrance and
certain outcome. It will depend on us making wise
San Pedro, continue to provide care to our patients
decisions, educated by the best scientific evidence
with excellence, compassion and dignity under
and governed by our most cherished values. This is
extraordinary circumstances.
the challenge that lies ahead. It is the challenge to
The health and safety of our patients and communities remains our No. 1 priority as we
which Providence Little Company of Mary is called and committed.
Garry Olney Chief Executive, Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers San Pedro and Torrance
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ADVANCED CARDIAC CARE
HAS ARRIVED. Providence Little Company of Mary and Keck Medicine of USC team up to bring academic medicine to the South Bay.
The Del Vicario Cardiovascular Center of Excellence is leading the way when it comes to matters of the heart. Thanks to the Providence Little Company of Mary and Keck Medicine of USC’s partnership, our skilled physicians and surgeons offer the South Bay community the highest level of expert care and the latest in academic research. From diagnostic procedures to minimally invasive valve and open heart surgery, we are saving the hearts of the South Bay. 888-HEALING | providence.org/torrance
Photo taken in 2019 prior to COVID-19
TABLE OF
CONTENTS INSIDE 3 | Message from the Chief Executive 14 | Save the Date
UpFront
11
6 | Helping Our Community 7 | Bariatric Surgery Certification 10 | Best Hospitals Recognition 17 | An Update on COVID-19
COMMUNITY BENEFIT 18 | The Vasek Polak Clinic
Features 20 | Partnering with the Best Academic-medicine experts provide a range of services to Providence Little Company of Mary patients.
24
24 | Meeting Every Emergency in Stroke Care A South Bay man survives a dangerous brain bleed.
30 | San Pedro Medical Center’s Top-Quality Care The hospital expands many service lines to meet the needs of the community.
34 | An Infection Finds the Heart A cardiac surgery partnership with Keck Medicine of USC helps save a man’s life.
Philanthropy
34
39 | The Curtis Foundation 40 | Remembering Pamela Ryan
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UPFRONT
Reaching Out to Help Our Community Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers San Pedro and Torrance support several programs in the South Bay aimed at improving the health of our community. There are three categories of funding we provide to the community: CHARITY CARE — Free or discounted medical care provided to patients who do not have health insurance or are unable to pay for all or part of their medical care due to limited income or financial hardship. MEDI-CAL SHORTFALL — The difference between the cost of providing care and the amount received from Medi-Cal. COMMUNITY BENEFIT SERVICES — Programs to address the identified health needs of the community. These programs include the Wellness and Activity Center, Vasek Polak Health Clinic, community-based diabetes and nutrition classes, the Partners for Healthy Kids mobile clinic, the Creating Opportunities for Physical Activity PE program in schools, and health Photo taken in 2019 prior to COVID-19
insurance and CalFresh application assistance.
2019 Community Benefits HERE IS A LOOK AT OUR COMMUNITY BENEFIT CONTRIBUTIONS IN 2019. S A N P E D R O T O R R A N C E C H A R I T Y C A R E $2,904,530 $7,085,125 M E D I - C A L S H O R T FA L L $4,093,041 $22,750,365 C OM M U N I T Y BE N E FI T SE R V ICE S $6,070,393 $10,706,120 2 0 1 9 TO TA L
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$13,067,964 $40,541,610
UPFRONT Bariatric Surgery Program Receives Accreditation Not all bariatric surgery programs are created equal. Only the best obtain accreditation from the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP®). Providence Little Company of Mary’s Bariatric Wellness Center is proud to have achieved this designation. The accreditation, awarded jointly by The American College of Surgeons and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, reflects the safe, highquality patient care provided by the Bariatric Wellness Center. This accreditation ensures that bariatric patients receive multidisciplinary medical care, which improves patient outcomes and long-term success. MBSAQIP-accredited centers offer preoperative and postoperative care designed specifically for patients with obesity, says Houman Solomon, MD, Bariatric Wellness Center director at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance. “This accreditation is a testament to the dedicated care team and the comprehensive program we offer our patients,” says Dr. Solomon. “Bariatric surgery can be a lifesaver for those who have battled obesity. We are proud to be recognized for delivering the highest quality of care.” Providence Little Company of Mary’s commitment to quality care begins with expertly trained staff and the leadership of an experienced bariatric surgeon. The program is continuously reviewed
Before
After
to ensure excellence. The center also participates in a national data registry that yields semiannual reports on the quality of its surgical outcomes and identifies opportunities for quality improvement. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates 93 million adults in the U.S. are affected by obesity, and that number continues to increase. The disease of obesity increases the risks of morbidity and mortality because of the commonly associated conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease and cancer, among other health risks. Bariatric surgery has proven to be effective in reducing the risks of these conditions. Bariatric surgery is now also available at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center San Pedro. For more information on the Providence Little Company of Mary Bariatric Wellness Center call 844-925-0942.
Bariatric surgery has helped Erika Brown lose more than 73 pounds, lower her cholesterol and reduce her risk of diabetes.
Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Receives Excellence Award Providence Little Company of Mary’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit was recognized by Press Ganey with the Guardian of Excellence Award. The award honors organizations that have achieved the 95th percentile for each reporting period of the award year for patient experience, engagement or clinical quality performance.
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UPFRONT Recognition for Providence Little Company of Mary San Pedro
P
rovidence Little Company of Mary Medical Center San Pedro is proud to receive a “Best Hospitals for America” designation by
Washington Monthly Magazine. The magazine’s “Best Hospitals for America” rankings were issued in partnership with the Lown Institute, a nonpartisan health care think tank. The “Best Hospitals for America” ranking is based on performance in three categories: patient outcomes, civic leadership and value of care. The Lown Institute index is the first hospital ranking to also measure value of care, racial and economic inclusivity, pay equity and more.
“Everyone in the entire San Pedro hospital shares this recognition,” says Garry Olney, the hospital’s chief executive. “It’s a complete commitment across the board.” Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center San Pedro is proud to receive the following recognition: • National overall grade: A+ • National patient outcomes grade: A • #6 Overall in California • #13 in the nation for safety net hospitals
TRANSITIONAL CARE CENTER AWARD Providence Little Company of Mary Transitional Care Center recently earned five stars for the 7th straight year in the U.S. News and World Report feature listing the Nation’s Top Nursing Homes. This award represents the commitment of our skilled nursing facility to providing excellent care with compassion to the community we serve.
SUPERIOR STROKE CARE Providence Little Company of Mary is proud to share that San Pedro’s Advanced Primary Stroke Center and Torrance’s Comprehensive Stroke Center were recognized by the American Heart Association® with the Get with the Guidelines Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award. San Pedro received Stroke and Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll and Torrance received Stroke Elite Honor Roll and Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll. Congratulations to both these teams for this accomplishment.
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UPFRONT Our Facebook Page is Moving We look forward to continuing to share information with you on Facebook. Please add your personal stories about Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers San Pedro and Torrance on our page. Stay Connected!
Like us on
@LittleCompanyofMarySouthBay
A Checkup For Your Heart Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers offer heart screenings to assess your cardiovascular health. It’s important to learn if you have any problems or conditions that could lead to a heart attack or stroke. Screenings are available at three convenient locations: Torrance, San Pedro and Manhattan Beach. Learn more at 888-HEALING (432-5464) or visit providence.org/heartscreening. WHO SHOULD BE TESTED? A heart screening is important if you are over age 35 and have at least one of the following risk factors: • Diabetes • High blood pressure • High cholesterol • Family history of cardiovascular disease • Sedentary lifestyle • Obesity • Smoking • Unhealthy diet
SIGN UP TODAY An advanced heart screening is $250 (valued at $1,500). Screening includes: • Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) • Stroke/carotid artery screening • Abdominal aorta screening • Body mass index • Comprehensive cholesterol screening • Peripheral arterial disease screening
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WE ARE OPEN for Wellness We’ve adapted how our medical care is delivered to you including virtual as well as in person visits. Our offices are open and we’ve instituted social distancing, while maintaining the highest infection control standards for safe and effective care. If you need to consult with a doctor for any type of concern, call our office today to book an appointment.
We’re open for all of your medical needs: • Annual Wellness Visits • Addressing Health Concerns
• Symptom Checks • Essential Health Screenings
Call your doctor’s office today or visit Providence.org/PMI to find a doctor near you.
UPFRONT Magnet RN Profile
JAZZEL ATIENZA
W
hen Jazzel Atienza emigrated to the United States from the Philippines in 2008, she was unsure what she would do with her life. But the idea of
being in health care was never far from her thoughts. Now 12 years later, she is working in her dream job in the medical cardiology unit at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance. First Atienza earned a nursing assistant license in 2010. She kept working hard and obtained her RN in 2014. Finally last year, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Cal State Dominguez Hills, which was no small feat since she was already working full-time. “It took a lot of effort,” she acknowledges with a laugh. “I had to talk to my manager about my schedule.” Atienza has been at Providence Little Company of Mary Torrance for three years and praises the work environment. “When you walk into the hospital you feel the people and staff are very warm,” she says. “It’s hard to find a place like that. I also really like our mission statement: It says we provide care for everyone, the poor and vulnerable, and we try to ease their way. I feel like that mission statement spoke to me.” The Magnet Nursing status at the hospital reflects a commitment to evidencebased, empowered nursing practice, says Atienza, who serves on a nursing committee representing her unit. “The hospital encourages nurses to further their education, further their careers,” she says. “Magnet status is about the hospital really empowering nurses to speak up and be part of the committees.” Her favorite aspect of nursing, however, is being at the patient’s bedside. “I like making sure my patients get the proper education about why they’re in the hospital and teach them about how to manage their condition, so they don’t end up back in the hospital,” she says. “I want them to be healthy. I don’t want them to be coming back. I tell them there are things they can manage on their own. Their illness doesn’t make them weak.”
What is the Magnet® Recognition Program? The Magnet® program is recognized as the gold standard of nursing excellence. Only 378 of more than 6,000 U.S. health care organizations have received this credential. It recognizes health care organizations that provide nursing excellence and disseminate successful nursing practices and strategies. Patients cared for by Magnet nurses know they are receiving the highest level of care. p. 13
SAVE THE DATE
UPCOMING 2021 WOMEN’S WELLNESS CONFERENCE— THE POWER OF PINK APRIL 9 The Power of Pink conference will benefit Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers and feature keynote speaker Marilu Henner, New York Times bestselling author and actor best known for her roles in “Taxi” and “Evening Shade.” For more information, call 310-303-5340 or go to plcmfoundation.org/blog/2021-womenswellness-conference-the-power-of-pink/ Support us now by purchasing a POWER OF PINK signature keepsake wrap at zalamoon. com/products/power-of-pink-shawl
ONGOING LOW-COST HEART SCREENINGS Providence Little Company of Mary is proud to offer valuable, low-cost heart screenings to our community. Screenings are available during the week and on the weekends at our Advanced Care Center in Torrance and the Providence Medical Institute in Manhattan Beach. Getting screened today could help avoid problems in the future. Register online at Providence.org/heartscreening or call 888-HEALING (888432-5464).
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PRENATAL AND BABY CARE CLASSES If you are expecting a child or have already had your baby, prenatal or baby care classes are a great way to help you understand pregnancy and parenting. We offer a variety of classes that give insight into what you are experiencing now and help you prepare for the experiences to come. Based on our patients’ and community’s needs, we are offering in-person as well as virtual class options at various dates and times. To register, or for more information on our classes, call 888-HEALING (888-432-5464) or visit ProvidenceClasses.org
CHILDBIRTH PREPARATION
BREASTFEEDING BASICS
In our one-day class we will go over: • Mechanics and overview of labor • Your birth team • Natural pain management techniques • Interventions • Epidural benefits and risk • Cesarean section • Choices and options • Prepare a birth preference sheet • Informed consent • Early infant transition • Bonding and postpartum recovery • Master pain management • Relaxation techniques
This class is taught by a Certified Lactation Educator and is designed to help you succeed at breastfeeding. We will cover how to start breastfeeding after delivery, common problems and solutions, and how to tell if the baby is getting enough milk.
SAVE THE DATE VIRTUAL COMMUNITY LECTURES BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUP Come with your baby (0–6 weeks) to an informal gathering designed for moms seeking one-on-one assistance from a trained and experienced internationally board-certified lactation consultant. Free event. No registration needed. Walk-ins welcomed.
BAGELS, BIRTH AND BABIES Tuesdays, 10 a.m., via Zoom. Creating your own village locally and receiving the support that you deserve is what this meet-up is all about. Each month we will present a topic for discussion that will better prepare you and your partner for your
upcoming birth or travels into parenthood. Join us and connect with other families to receive the guidance and support that you need as a pregnant family or new parents. Free event. No registration needed.
BIRTH PLAN BUILDER AND OB CARE COORDINATOR CONCIERGE GUIDANCE Connect directly with our OB care coordinator and receive personalized guidance as you prepare for your upcoming birth, assistance in building your birth plan and local resources and referrals. Contact Rena.koerner@providence.org or 310-303-6708.
In person classes observe all required safety infection control practices To register for upcoming classes and events or for more information, call 888-HEALING (432-5464) or visit ProvidenceClasses.org. You can also find Zoom links and a virtual maternity tour on our Facebook page @ProvidenceTorranceWomensHealth
Locations: TORRANCE: Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance, 4101 Torrance Blvd., Torrance
SAN PEDRO: Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center San Pedro, 1300 West 7th St., San Pedro
All community lectures are free and held LIVE virtually over Zoom. To register for an upcoming lecture or to get more information call 888-HEALING (888-432-5464) or visit ProvidenceClasses.org
REACH YOUR WEIGHT LOSS GOALS FOR 2021 JANUARY 21 5:30 TO 6:30 P.M. Reclaim your health and discover the real you! Start your weight loss journey today. Join us to find out if weight loss surgery or weight loss management is right for you. Learn about surgery options, hear from a registered dietitian and have your questions answered.
KEEP YOUR HEART HEALTHY FEBRUARY 16 5:30 TO 6:30 P.M. Even if you feel healthy, you may have undetected risk factors. Join us at learn how to take better care of your heart. We will discuss the signs and symptoms of heart disease, prevention and the latest treatment advancements. Also, learn about Providence Little Company of Mary and Keck Medicine of USC’s new partnership in bringing world class cardiac care to the South Bay.
SUFFERING FROM NECK OR BACK PAIN? MARCH 16 5:30 TO 6:30 P.M. At some point, most of us will experience neck or back pain. Don’t let it affect your quality of life. Join us for this informative lecture where we will help you understand what treatment options are available to help you get back to doing the things you love.
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CANCER CARE THAT’S CLOSE TO HOME AND SECOND TO NONE.
City of Hope | South Bay and Providence Little Company of Mary join forces to deliver state-of-the-art cancer care. Dealing with cancer is challenging enough. You shouldn’t have to travel far from your community to receive leading-edge treatment. Now City of Hope | South Bay and Providence Little Company of Mary, two leaders in health care in Southern California, are partnering to focus on cancer care for patients right here in the South Bay. To find out more about this unique commitment to innovative treatment and unparalleled cancer care close to where you live, go to SouthBayCancerCare.org or call 310-750-1715.
5215 Torrance Blvd. Torrance, CA 90503
COVID NEWS Get the Health Care You Need – and Stay Safe from COVID-19 In March, the COVID-19 pandemic led to a temporary shutdown of nonessential medical services, such as annual physicals, cancer screenings and elective surgeries. However, those protection measures have been lifted. Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers are taking every measure to keep our patients safe, says Garry Olney, chief executive, Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers San Pedro and Torrance. Recent studies suggest that Americans’ fear of COVID-19 is leading to delays in getting care for strokerelated symptoms and postponement of needed cancer screening tests, such as mammograms. With our infection control measures, and your willingness to wear a mask and practice good hand hygiene, it is safe and sensible to seek the care you need. Delaying health care visits may do you much more harm in the long run. “Our efforts include working with suppliers around the globe to build up our inventory of personal protective equipment,” he says. “We have also purchased our own lab equipment for testing for the COVID virus. This drastically reduced our reliance on outside labs and increased the turnaround time for the results. Additionally, we are continuously improving the way we treat patients with the COVID virus.” Talk to your health care provider about scheduling a visit to discuss your current needs. You may be able to conduct a video visit if you are concerned about going into an office. Your health care provider can explain the precautions that will be taken to safely care for you. Stay informed and connected by visiting coronavirus.providence.org
We are working to understand and treat COVID-19 Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers is proud to join the legion of scientists working diligently to improve treatments for COVID-19 infections. We are participating in a clinical trial for a drug produced by Novartis that may help prevent complications in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Participating in COVID-19 trials helps us stay on the cutting edge of treatment protocols. We can be assured our patients and community are receiving the best possible treatment. Providence has a robust research program, including an Institutional Review Board (IRB) to ensure the studies meet strict criteria for research and safety.
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COMMUNITY
OUTREACH
A HOME FOR HEALTH CARE
But, he explains, when patients who aren’t in a medical crisis seek care at an emergency
Clinic helps uninsured and underinsured people avoid the ER.
room, they may jeopardize the staff’s ability
Written by Sandi Draper
to care for patients in dire need, such as a child in respiratory distress.
I
nsured people usually turn to their
William A. Conrad, MD, chief of staff at
family doctor for routine care and only
Providence Little Company of Mary Medical
medical home, Providence Little Company
consider a trip to the emergency room if
Center Torrance and former chairman of the
of Mary has partnered with the PMI Vasek
it is after hours and/or a true emergency.
center’s emergency department.
Polak Health Clinic in Hawthorne, which
But the emergency room is often where
“My goal is to treat any patient in an
To help patients find an affordable
was named for a Czech-born Los Angeles
uninsured and underinsured patients turn
emergency,” Dr. Conrad says. “Regardless of
car dealer, race car driver and overall car
when they are ill and do not have a regular
income, race, gender identity or culture, in a
aficionado. Polak died as a result of a car
doctor, or “medical home,” according to
true emergency you are my prized patient.”
crash on a German autobahn in 1997, and a
p. 18
COMMUNITY
OUTREACH
“The clinic is committed to providing access to quality
visit to the emergency department, we
health care services for poor and vulnerable populations.”
help many patients enroll in the Hospital Presumptive Eligibility Program (HPE). The HPE program provides immediate access to
decade later, his family endowed the clinic
with a group of providers that looks after
temporary Medi-Cal (30 days) which covers
in his memory and set up funding for its
them personally, and not just an emergency
patient’s medical expenses during their
first few years. Since its inception the clinic
physician who is focused on the immediate
ER visit. It also provides an opportunity for
has operated under the Providence Medical
issue, but not the follow-up care.”
patients to enroll in a permanent full-scope
Institute umbrella. The “medical home” is
Clinic staff work hard to connect with
Medi-Cal or other health plan coverage.
a model of care that is patient-centered,
patients so they feel they have a safe and
Our teams of community health workers
comprehensive, team-based, coordinated,
secure place for health care.
housed both in the emergency department
accessible, and focused on quality and safety.
“Efforts are made to reach out and try
and the PMI Vasek Polak Health Clinic do an
This is exactly what the Vasek Polak Health
to connect with every patient who gets
incredible job providing health insurance
Clinic provides.
referred to us from the ER,” says Juan
navigation and assistance to every patient
Mendez, practice manager of the PMI
we come in contact with, regardless of
Health Department, a team of community
Vasek Polak Health Clinic and manager of
their race or immigration status.”
health workers is integrated in the
Providence’s community health department
emergency department and works
in the South Bay.
Through Providence’s Community
alongside the emergency room staff to
Vasek Polak Health Clinic is an alternative
The clinic operates from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. On Thursday, however, the hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
monitor, track and coordinate referrals
to emergency room care for primary
Office visits are $50, which includes
of patients who need follow-up care after
and urgent care services,” Mendez says.
follow-up visits for lab results and acute
being discharged from the emergency
“As an extension of our medical centers,
medical services. X-Rays are $30; lab fees
department or medical center and have no
the clinic is committed to providing
are $10. Appointments are required,
medical home. The goal is to ensure that
access to quality health care services for
but the clinic tries to accommodate
patients referred to the clinic avoid having
poor and vulnerable populations.”
same-day visits when possible. Most
to utilize the emergency department for their routine care.
The clinic is staffed five days a week by a
appointments can be scheduled within a
full-time physician (the medical director),
week. The clinic also offers free ongoing
a full-time nurse practitioner and a part-
health education classes for patients with
emergencies,” Dr. Conrad says. “What we
time physician. In addition to the traditional
chronic conditions such as diabetes.
will do is when a patient comes through
primary care services, Vasek Polak Health
the emergency room, we ask if they have
Clinic offers community and social support
Clinic presents a unique set of challenges,”
a medical home. If they don’t, then after
services, including behavioral health services,
Mendez says. “We treat patients as a whole
the patient is evaluated, we connect them
health insurance enrollment assistance,
person, not as a set of symptoms. We hold
to the team of community health workers
health education and coordination of
the patient’s hand and walk them through
to help find a better pathway for ongoing
community resource referrals.
the process. The biggest thing our staff has is
“We won’t deny care for non-
care. Subsequently, we get thank-you notes from patients who are now able to connect
“Patients may be uninsured but eligible for Medi-Cal,” Mendez says. “During their
“Working in a place like Vasek Polak
a heart in the right place with the passion to do this work every day.” p. 19
p. 20
Stronger Together Providence partnerships bring state-of-the-art academic medicine to the South Bay Written by Melanie Anderson
I
n collaboration with Providence Little Company of Mary, four of the region’s most trusted nationally recognized names in academic medicine are providing world-class care in the South Bay. “On any given day, if you go into the doctors’ dining lounge, you might see lab coats that say
Providence Little Company of Mary, City of Hope, Keck Medicine of USC, UCLA Health, and Pacific Neuroscience Institute. They are all sitting together for lunch, which is pretty remarkable,” says Garry Olney, chief executive for Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers San Pedro and Torrance. Partnerships with each of those institutions is why we continue to provide some of the best care in the South Bay. Patients can seek complex care locally instead of traveling beyond the South Bay. “Within Providence, we have top-quality outcomes,” says Olney. “What this tells us is that we have found the right partners and that, culturally, these partnerships are a great fit.”
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multidisciplinary team—surgical, medical and
the hospitals end up with stronger programs
radiation oncologists—assembled immediately.
because of it.”
“We had to approach her case from all three
CITY OF HOPE
Through the partnership, four highly skilled
perspectives,” says Dr. Faynsod. “We saw the
cardiovascular surgeons from USC—Matthew
Renowned for providing leading-edge cancer
patient together and formulated a plan right then
Powers, MD, Jonathan Cash, MD, Raymond Lee,
care, City of Hope draws patients from all over the
and there. Subsequently, she had both cancers
MD, and Dr. Baker—are operating at Providence
West Coast to its main campus in Duarte. Thanks
removed. She is now receiving radiation therapy
Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance.
to a partnership that launched in 2018, patients
and doing well.”
“We’re doing more revision surgery, more
receive City of Hope’s expert care right here in the
double and triple valve replacements, and
South Bay.
seeing more patients with complex endocarditis
“Our goal was to alleviate the burden of commuting on patients and be able to provide
requiring surgical repair of a valve. We’re treating
KECK MEDICINE OF USC
a lot of aortic dissection and patients needing
the same care locally,” says Moshe Faynsod, MD,
Over the past 15 years, the field of cardiac surgery
enhanced cardiac mechanical support,”says Dr.
surgical oncologist and assistant clinical professor
has become increasingly complex, due in part
Baker. “All of those things are very difficult to
in the Department of Surgery at City of Hope.
to the fact that straightforward cases can now be
deliver at a community hospital if they don’t have
“We really depend on Providence and all its
treated with less invasive—or catheter-based—
the support of a strong program.”
clinical services, including highly trained staff
procedures versus traditional open-heart surgery.
in the operating room, a phenomenal pathology
“The number of patients seeking open-heart
The Providence-USC partnership is off to a strong start. “We’ve seen volumes and quality
department, and a second-to-none radiology
surgery for non-complex disease has decreased.
go up significantly,” Dr. Baker says. “As our
department, to be able to provide the same high
Those patients who do need surgery are usually
reputation becomes known in the community, I
level of care we provide at the Duarte location.”
sicker and require more complex surgical
only see growth in the future.”
Located in the Providence Little Company of
procedures. Having state-of-the-art capability in
Mary Advanced Care Center in Torrance, City
serving those more complex patients was what
of Hope | South Bay provides medical oncology,
prompted us to look for a nationally recognized
radiation oncology, surgical oncology and clinical
academic partner,” says Olney.
trials. The partnership is facilitating the type of
As division chief of cardiac surgery at Keck
PACIFIC NEUROSCIENCE INSTITUTE Providence and Pacific Neuroscience Institute
collaborative, multidisciplinary approach that Dr.
Medicine of USC, Craig J. Baker, MD, says he is
(PNI) are well suited to work together to offer
Faynsod says “makes cancer care a cut above.”
constantly seeking partners that can support
the best neurological care in the South Bay,
delivery of USC’s expert cardiac surgical care in a
says Daniel F. Kelly, MD, director of the Pacific
and want to refer them to meet with a medical
community setting—and he calls Providence the
Neuroscience Institute and a professor of
oncologist, they’re leaving that day with
“right partner.”
neurosurgery at the John Wayne Cancer Institute,
“If I see patients for a surgical consultation
that appointment in hand,” he says. “We’re
Vaughn Starnes, MD, professor and chair of
also able to expedite any additional studies,
USC’s Department of Surgery agrees. “Providence
pathology, or labs because we have that
Little Company of Mary was the ideal choice to
encompassing neuroscience disorders as diverse
seamless communication and partnership with
bring Keck Medicine of USC’s academic-based
as brain, pituitary and orbital tumors, stroke
Providence. When you are told you have cancer,
cardiac care to the patients of the South Bay,
and cerebral aneurysms, hydrocephalus, facial
getting appointments and results of testing
allowing them to stay close to home.”
pain syndromes, Parkinson’s disease and spinal
quickly allows for the patient and physician to
“It takes forward-thinking leadership within
Providence Saint John’s Health Center. “PNI has eight clinical centers of excellence
disorders,” he says.
develop a plan of care expeditiously so treatment
organizations to want to make that investment,
can begin immediately.”
and if they do, then it’s a win-win,” says Dr. Baker.
all these areas at Little Company of Mary, we
“We get to deliver quality to the community, the
thought PNI could offer a unifying solution for
treatment of bilateral breast cancer walked in off
patients benefit from knowing that they don’t
our Providence partners in the South Bay,” says
the street without an appointment. City of Hope’s
have to leave the community to get the care, and
Richard Glimp, MD, chief medical officer of
About a year ago, a patient who had delayed
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“Given the need for clinical expertise in
Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance.
“Our collaboration has exceeded all
PLCMMC San Pedro which has the state’s largest
expectations and continues to grow and
Subacute Care Center as well as a nationally
In particular, the partnership has elevated
improve,” Dr. Kelly says. “We are adding new
renowned acute rehabilitation program.
stroke care at Providence, providing South Bay
physicians to the team and expanding clinical
“UCLA found that Little Company of Mary was
residents who have a stroke with the highest
trials in several areas, including brain tumors
the right partner to provide this specialized level
level of care. Providence Little Company of Mary
and movement disorders, as well as expanding
of care to these very fragile patients following
was the first comprehensive stroke center in the
our brain health and dementia care programs to
their transplant,” says Olney.
South Bay and is the only center in the South Bay
Little Company of Mary in 2021.”
certified by The Joint Commission.
a UCLA Health hospitalist, working closely with
“Prior to 2017, when PNI began its partnership
Huong-Anh N. Long, MD, and her rehabilitation
with Little Company of Mary, stroke patients that came to Little Company of Mary typically
The partnership involves Patrick L. Bui, MD,
team at Providence. “Together they monitor the
UCLA HEALTH
patient postoperatively and condition the patient
had to be transferred out to other stroke
Providence’s partnership with UCLA Health
physically and psychologically to adjust to their
centers,” Dr. Kelly says. “And as we know, ‘time
is twofold. One aspect involves UCLA Health
new transplant and strengthen themselves so
is brain’ when it comes to treating strokes—
specialists opening practices in the community
that they can go home,” says Dr. Glimp.
every minute counts. Now Little Company
and joining the staff of Providence Little
of Mary is one of the busiest comprehensive
Company of Mary Torrance and San Pedro.
stroke centers in all of LA County, so when
“There are a lot of patients who have been
The first case had been at UCLA in an ICU bed for almost a year. He was transferred to Little Company of Mary San Pedro, and the
stroke patients come in, we have a highly
going up to Westwood looking for that quality
multidisciplinary patient care team worked to
experienced team of neuro-interventionalists,
of care UCLA is known for, so UCLA developed a
get the patient strong enough to go home. The
neurosurgeons and neurocritical care
community neighborhood strategy to come into
patient was cared for in the subacute for 10 days
specialists ready 24/7 to provide essential
communities and partner with local hospitals,”
and then transferred to the acute rehabilitation
lifesaving stroke care on the spot. The benefits
says Olney.
unit for another two weeks and was discharged
to the community have been remarkable.” The partnership, while only a few years old,
For several years, UCLA has partnered with Little Company of Mary to care for their heart,
has been a huge success for everyone involved,
liver and lung transplant patients. These patients,
he adds.
when stabilized, are transferred from UCLA to
home to celebrate his 40th wedding anniversary with his wife. “Good partnerships,” Dr. Glimp says, “lead to great outcomes.” p. 23
Charles Demachy, shown with wife Virginia, is back working at the family's nursery after suffering a life-threatening aneurysm.
STOP&SMELL
the roses A South Bay man survives a brain aneurysm thanks to a rapid medical response. Written by Shari Roan Photographed by Kristin Anderson
C
harles Demachy remembers the headache most of all. It was crushing and “weird,” he says. En route to Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance, he recalls feeling like there was bleeding inside his head. There was.
Demachy had a ruptured brain aneurysm causing a subarachnoid hemorrhage, a
life-threatening condition in which a blood vessel in the brain bursts. In the emergency department, he was met by a medical team well-trained in saving lives from such neurological emergencies as stroke and aneurysm. It was the start of a long, difficult experience, but Demachy was already on the road to recovery. Providence Little Company of Mary Torrance is considered the destination hospital in the South Bay for neurological emergencies. For nearly a decade, Providence Little Company of Mary has been certified as an Advanced Primary Stroke Center. The high standards set by the staff have earned the hospital The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval, and it is now the only hospital in the South Bay to carry the distinction of Comprehensive Stroke Certification by The Joint Commission. The hospital is also a recipient of the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Gold Plus Achievement Award and was the first in Los Angeles County to receive an EMS designation as a Comprehensive Stroke Receiving Center. “Between 15 and 20% of patients with a subarachnoid hemorrhage like his die before they even get to the hospital,” says Jason Tarpley, MD, PhD, director of the Stroke & Aneurysm Center; Vascular and Interventional Neurology, at Pacific Neuroscience Institute—an affiliate of Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers San Pedro and Torrance. “Luckily, he got to us early and we made the diagnosis in the emergency department and treated him within an hour. The first priority is to fix the aneurysm as soon as you can do so safely. If it re-ruptures, or if you get a second rupture, the mortality rate is nearly 100%. So you want to get it fixed as soon as you can.”
p. 25
NEUROSCIENCE CLINICAL INSTITUTE RAISES STANDARDS OF CARE C l i ni
l Inst
itu te
ca
In 2019, the seven-state Providence system launched a new care model called Clinical Institutes. Among the many beneficiaries of the program are Providence patients who require neurological care, such as those at Providence Little Company of Mary. The Neuroscience Clinical Institute leaders conduct ongoing review processes to establish best practices and then measure and report their progress toward reaching goals.
“We have numerous hospitals treating stroke and neurological disorders. We are able to coordinate the care across the entire region to ensure highly reliable outcomes, cutting-edge research and appropriate distribution of services,” said Bernard Klein, MD, chief executive leader of the Neuroscience Clinical Institutes. The Neuroscience Clinical Institute is one of six Clinical Institutes in Providence. The others are: Cancer, Cardiovascular, Digestive Health, Musculoskeletal, and Women and Children’s Health. The hard work of the institutes results in a high-quality experience for patients, with predictable costs and outcomes, says Dr. Klein. There is greater consistency from hospital to hospital because health care teams are following the same high standards. The institute can identify areas in need of additional resources, such as neurologists, neurosurgeons and multidisciplinary teams, and shift resources as indicated. Care is elevated because health care professionals share information and best practices, according to Dr. Klein. “Prior to this, hospitals worked in silos,” he says. “This allows us to coordinate care across our geography. We are already seeing more collaboration, sharing of best practices and coordination of care across the region.” Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance is one of the institutes leading the way in research for treatment of stroke. Under the direction of Jason Tarpley, MD, PhD, they are currently in the planning stage for six clinical trials. According to Los Angeles County Emergency Medical Systems data, PLCMMC Torrance has the highest volume of thrombectomies in all of Los Angeles. This is a testament to the leadership, expertise and teamwork that is in place. The program encourages and facilitates research and clinical trials, Dr. Klein says. It also emphasizes metrics—collecting and analyzing data and making improvements based on that information. For example, the Neuroscience Clinical Institute has implemented a system in which stroke patients are contacted three months after discharge to assess how they are doing and how the health system can assist them further. They’re asked if they’re taking their medications or need more information. Another ongoing goal of the Neuroscience Clinical Institute is to aim for administration of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA)—a clot-busting drug—within 45 minutes of the onset of an ischemic stroke. The goal is to continue to raise the bar on treatment and to track outcomes. This type of performance improvement benefits everyone, Dr. Klein says. “There is a lot of negative press about hospitals coming together and hospital systems growing,” he says. “But by being part of a system, we are able to improve quality of care and patient satisfaction while lowering costs. That’s why we’re so committed to the Clinical Institutes.”
In Demachy’s case, care began when the
and a multidisciplinary team converged that
case, we decided together that minimally
Manhattan Beach paramedics brought him
included Dr. Tarpley, neurosurgeon Jean-
invasive endovascular coiling of Charles’s
to the right hospital. The emergency room
Philippe Langevin, MD, of Pacific Neuroscience
aneurysm was the best treatment, and on
physician quickly ordered a “code stroke”
Institute, and vascular neurologist Yih-Lin
the night of his admission I performed the
and a protocol was set into motion. A brain
Nien, MD, to create a treatment plan.
coiling procedure,” Dr. Tarpley says. The
scan showed Demachy had an aneurysm, p. 26
“After Dr. Langevin and I reviewed the
minimally invasive procedure involved
making an incision in the thigh and
The coiling procedure is among the newer
comprehensive stroke center like ours,” Dr.
threading a telescoping catheter through
options for treating hemorrhagic stroke that
Tarpley explains. “Charles’s subarachnoid
the artery of the leg into the arteries of the
can be offered at centers like Providence
hemorrhage caused buildup of fluid in the
brain, guided by imaging and a special dye.
Little Company of Mary due to its top-rated
brain—which is common in his condition—
A series of smaller and smaller catheters
stroke program.
that required Dr. Langevin to place a
were deployed until Dr. Tarpley placed tiny
“These are complex patients which require
platinum coils into the aneurysm to prompt
a lot of skill and practice,” Dr. Tarpley says.
a clot to form and stop the blood flow.
“As a comprehensive stroke center, PLCMMC
“It’s a minimally invasive option, which
drain in his brain and required exquisite neurocritical care by Dr. Caganap.” Demachy spent two weeks in the hospital’s
is the highest volume thrombectomy center
specialized neurocritical care unit, and
is usually the best way to go,” he says of the
in Los Angeles, so our staff have a lot of
was attended to by Scott Caganap, MD,
procedure. “The tiny catheter goes into the
experience.”
a neurointensivist at Providence Little
aneurysm. You fill it full of tiny platinum
The aneurysm was quickly secured, and
coils, which are like strands of platinum
then Demachy had a two-week fight in the
that ball up like a ball of yarn to plug the
hospital ahead of him, Tarpley says.
aneurysm. It’s a pretty amazing procedure.” “Everything happened really fast,” says
“The hemorrhage from aneurysm rupture
Company of Mary Torrance. “The other critical aspect of caring for subarachnoid hemorrhage patients is neurocritical care,” Dr. Tarpley says.
causes a fascinating host of potential
“Dr. Caganap monitors the patient every
Demachy. “I remember Dr. Tarpley telling
physiological problems that need to be
single day for any physiological changes
me, we have to stop the bleeding.”
handled in a multidisciplinary fashion at a
so we can address issues quickly when p. 27
BE FAST
the patient gets into trouble. Dr. Caganap
He still battles occasional dizziness, but he is
managed to get Charles through fluid
back to work at the Demachy family’s nursery.
acronym so you recognize the
buildup on the brain and clots in the
He can drive his car and enjoy walks on the
symptoms of stroke.
legs and lungs, which are all common
beach with wife, Virginia.
Remember the Be FAST
complications of this disease process.” “I did have a lot of complications, but I didn’t
“Subarachnoid hemorrhage can throw a lot of different punches at you,” Dr. Tarpley says.
get discouraged,” Demachy says. “It was my
“But as a comprehensive stroke center with
first time at Providence Little Company of Mary
great neurology, neurointerventional surgery,
Medical Center. The care was great from the
neurocritical care and neurosurgery, we know
beginning to the end.”
what punches to expect and how to fight back.”
PUSHING FRONTIERS IN STROKE CARE B—Balance:
Loss of balance or dizziness.
E—Eyes:
Blurred or loss of vision.
F—Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop? A—Arms:
Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
S—Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is the speech slurred or strange? T—Time:
If you see any of these signs, call 911 right away.
Providence Little Company of Mary’s Comprehensive Stroke Center is participating in groundbreaking stroke research. These clinical trials provide promising new treatments that can lead to better outcomes for stroke patients in our community. “Dr. Tarpley is an MD, PhD, and is the lead investigator on all of our stroke trials,” says Catrice Nakamura, MSN, stroke and neuroscience program director. “It’s due to his leadership, expertise and passion that we can offer clinical trials for our patients. Our research program gives us an added clinical approach for our stroke patients and those at risk for stroke in the community.” The Joint Commission requires the Stroke Center to undergo Institutional Review Board-approved research aimed at improving stroke care, Nakamura says. Providence currently has six clinical trials in various stages of development at Providence Little Company of Mary, including two that are actively enrolling patients. Patients must meet inclusion criteria. • One study involves testing a procedure to surgically remove blood clots in patients with strokes that impact a large area of the brain and who are not, under current criteria, eligible for this powerful procedure. • The second is comparing two different types of devices used during the stroke clot retrieval procedure. The other trials include: • A follow-up to the ESCAPE-NA1 clinical trial that was published in The Lancet medical journal in February. The study explored the safety and efficacy of the neuroprotectant drug nerinetide in patients experiencing stroke. Providence
Call To Action + For more information about stroke services at Providence Little Company of Mary San Pedro and Torrance call 844-925-0924.
p. 28
Little Company of Mary Torrance is the lead site for a Providence-wide trial called ESCAPE-NEXT that will further evaluate this medication. • CREST 2, which is a trial studying the treatment of carotid artery disease with carotid stent or surgical endarterectomy compared with medicines for the primary prevention of stroke.
Q&A THE EVOLUTION OF STROKE CARE presents with focal symptoms,
neurology, neurointerventional
such as weakness, language
surgery, neurosurgery and
problems, facial droop or vision
neurocritical care. No matter how
changes.”
complex the case is, we have to be available and working all the
I
n the United States, someone has a stroke every 40 seconds, and someone dies of stroke every four minutes, according to the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention. In the past decade, however, the care of stroke has been transformed. Specialists can offer a range of treatments for both ischemic stroke, the kind that is caused by a blood clot in the brain, and hemorrhagic stroke, which involves bleeding in the brain. The key is rapid treatment at a hospital that specializes in stroke treatment and recovery. We asked Jason Tarpley, MD, PhD, to explain how stroke patients can get the best possible care.
What should you do if you
time.”
think you or someone else is
With the COVID-19 pandemic,
having a stroke?
are people afraid to seek
“I had a patient ask me that the
stroke care?
other day. He said, If I recognize
“A recent study suggests people
any of these symptoms can I
are delaying seeking care for
drive to the hospital? I said, No,
stroke-related symptoms since
you should call 911. They will
the start of the pandemic. This is
get you to the most appropriate
unfortunate. The medical center
comprehensive stroke center.”
takes multiple precautions to keep patients protected from COVID-19
Providence Little Company
transmission in the hospital.
of Mary Medical Center is
Stroke symptoms should always
Are most people aware of
to treat both ischemic and
the only hospital in the South
be considered an emergency. Any
stroke warning signs?
hemorrhagic stroke. And it’s still
Bay to carry the distinction
delay in seeking care can result in
“People recognize the symptoms
changing. There is an amazing
of Comprehensive Stroke
greater neurological damage.”
more and more. The word is
amount of innovation. We’re
Certification by The Joint
getting out, especially in the
going to do six clinical trials in
Commission. Why should that
What do you enjoy about
South Bay. That is partly because
2020—all targeting new advances
matter to patients?
being part of the medical
we’re an excellent, top-tier
in therapy.”
“Providence Health Systems
center's stroke team?
continues to rely on The Joint
“The best things are the patients.
comprehensive stroke center and because of the volume of stroke
What symptoms should people
Commission accreditation and
Having a lot of patients means
patients.”
be aware of?
certification progess which is
we are extremely busy. We’re
“The two different kinds of stroke
the gold standard for more than
doing cases all the time. The
Do stroke patients have a
present in different ways. The
19,000 health care organizations
other thing I like is how our team
better chance today of fully
bleeding—hemorrhagic—stroke
throughout the world. The
works together. I have not seen
recovering?
presents with sudden-onset
certification we have from The
this in other hospitals. Everyone
“Yes. The progress is amazing. It’s
headache. It can be accompanied
Joint Commission is the highest
works together collaboratively
such a fun field of practice. It’s
by changes in mental status or
and most difficult certification
to ensure we provide the most
nothing like it was 10 years ago.
a complete coma. An ischemic
a hospital can obtain. You need
comprehensive care and
We have all kinds of procedures
stroke is generally painless and
the most resources—vascular
achieve the best outcomes.” p. 29
THE ADVANTAGES OF A
FULL-SERVICE COMMUNITY HOSPITAL Providence Little Company of Mary San Pedro delivers top-quality comprehensive care Written by Melanie Anderson
L
ong-time residents of San Pedro know their town wouldn’t be the same
“Our patients don’t just think of it as a
“There’s this tremendous loyalty to the hospital because patients feel that there’s a
hospital in town, they think of it as their
vested interest in them as individuals and in
Little Company of Mary Medical Center
hospital,” says Moshe Faynsod, MD, a
San Pedro as a community.”
San Pedro makes a big impact, serving its
surgical oncologist who’s chief of staff at the
community for nearly 95 years, as a full-
hospital and an assistant clinical professor
the community’s needs is essential to
service hospital focusing on comprehensive,
in the department of surgery at City of Hope.
Providence’s mission.
p. 30
without their hospital. Providence
personalized care.
Providing a breadth of services to meet
“Our goal is to ensure that the San Pedro
diagnostic imaging, laboratory and
ear, nose and throat surgery, cardiology,
community has access to a full-service acute
pathology, 24-hour emergency care,
pulmonology, women’s services and
care hospital within their community,” says
intensive care, surgical care including
many specialty programs including acute
Garry Olney, chief executive, Providence
robotic, and minimally invasive surgery. We
rehabilitation, complex post-acute care, and
Little Company of Mary Medical Centers, San
specialize in bariatric (weight loss) surgery,
behavioral health care including recovery
Pedro and Torrance.
urology, orthopedics, general and cancer
from addiction.
The medical center offers the community
surgery, gynecologic, gastroenterology,
“With two medical centers in the South Bay, p. 31
we have combined our expertise to ensure
With two medical centers in the South Bay, we have
that both centers have access to top physician
combined our expertise to ensure that both centers
groups,” says Dr. Faynsod. “We now have the same radiology, anesthesiology and pathology groups working at both medical centers.” Many surgeons and specialists—including Dr. Faynsod and his City of Hope colleagues in medical and radiation oncology—have
have access to top physician groups.” Many gynecologic, urologic, abdominal and
be close to home," Neri says. "We have
complex colon surgeries are performed via
comprehensive surgical services right here
robotic-assisted surgery, she says.
in the community.”
The medical center has grown its surgical
In the event patients need a higher
privileges at both hospitals to ensure
staff with the addition of physicians from
level of care—such as cardiac surgery
continuity of care.
the Association of South Bay Surgeons. In
or catheterization—they can rely on the
addition, a new bariatric surgeon is now
hospital’s critical-care transport service.
a multimillion-dollar construction project
servicing San Pedro while City of Hope
“Our staff has the ability to identify that need
at San Pedro to meet the State of California
surgeons provide cancer-related services.
and get patients over to our Providence Little
requirement for seismic (earthquake)
A broad range of orthopedic procedures
Company of Mary Torrance Medical Center
compliance. Currently, the emergency
continue to be provided.
in an expedited manner,” says Dr. Faynsod.
Moreover, Providence has just completed
department has begun a large $8 million
“When you have surgery, you want to
For the third year in a row, both the
dollar expansion and remodeling project to meet the needs of a growing community and waterfront expansion. “Our emergency department team does such a fabulous job of taking care of the broad spectrum of patients that make their way here,” Olney says. “With close proximity to Palos Verdes and the Harbor communities, the hospital takes care of patients from the community as well as those working in the Port of Los Angeles and travelers coming in on cruise ships and shipping vessels. from all over the world.” Providence Little Company of Mary
care and was the first hospital in the South
ON THE HORIZON: A REMODELED EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT
Bay to become a primary stroke center.
Work is underway to expand the emergency department at Providence Little Company
Medical Center San Pedro emergency department is also certified for pediatric
The hospital provides a broad range of surgical services, including the addition of the latest da Vinci robot for minimally invasive robotic procedures, says Jane Neri, executive director of surgical
of Mary Medical Center San Pedro. The $8 million project will meet the changing needs of the community by adding 60% more space. The number of beds will increase from 16 to 28. The design of the remodeled unit provides more privacy for patients and additional waiting space for family and friends, including a beautiful outdoor space. On any given day, the ED may see up to 150 patients. The remodeled unit will create designated areas for critically ill patients, lower-acuity patients, and patients in need
services and cardiovascular services
of mental health care. The work is being completed in phases so that the emergency
at Providence Little Company of Mary
department remains open during construction.
Medical Centers San Pedro and Torrance. p. 32
San Pedro and Torrance hospitals received A ratings on patient safety from Leapfrog. “It says a lot for a community hospital to have that level of care that’s recognized by groups that are specifically looking at the safety of care,” says Dr. Faynsod. With more than 90 years of service, Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center San Pedro has long been a source of community pride. “You see that not only in patients but also in the employees,” he adds. “There’s a sense of belonging, a sense
THE RECOVERY CENTER AIMS TO HELP MORE PEOPLE
of mission and a sense of pride, and
The chemical dependency rehabilitation unit at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical
that’s very unique.”
Center San Pedro, known as the Recovery Center, has provided help and long-term sobriety to hundreds of people in the South Bay for 45 years. Now the center has plans to reach even more people seeking treatment for alcohol or drug abuse.
QUALITY CARE FROM A TO Z Services at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center San Pedro include: • Acute rehabilitation
The center will soon extend its intake services around the clock so that people in need can seek help any time of the day or night to connect with an intake counselor and begin treatment, says Courtney Harrison, RN, Director of Behavioral Health. “We want to reach out and help more patients,” Harrison says. “This program has been in the community for 40-plus years. Dr. Crescenzo Pisano is the medical director of the center. He has a passion for the center and has been serving the San Pedro community for many years. It’s what he loves to do. Born at the medical center and raised in San Pedro, Dr. Pisano has a strong connection with the community.”
• Anesthesiology
The Recovery Center, which is certified by The Joint Commission, offers detox care, alcohol
• Bariatric surgery (new service line)
and drug rehabilitation and an outpatient recovery day program.
• Behavioral health (inpatient
Medicare and many types of private insurance are accepted.
and outpatient, chemical
For more information on
dependency unit)
the Recovery Center,
• Cancer care (City of Hope)
call 310-241-4021.
• Cardiology • Emergency department • Intensive care unit • Labor and delivery unit • Mammography • Pathology (lab, blood work) • Pharmacy • Subacute care center • Telemetry and Med/Surg
p. 33
A
Second Chance AT LIFE
A freak infection caused nightmarish cardiac problems until Providence Little Company of Mary surgeons intervened. Written by Robin Heffler Photographed by Shane O’Donnell
A
carpenter by profession, Chris Castellano, 46, was finishing a kitchen remodel in his Redondo Beach condominium last summer,
when he began to feel ill. “I thought maybe I was getting a cold,” he says. “I had no energy and was having a hard time walking, with my legs lacking coordination. At night, I was taking Alka Seltzer Plus so I could sleep.” He later learned his condition was much more serious and needed immediate attention. Castellano’s wife, Linda, was away on a business trip for a few days, but when she returned and saw his weakened condition, she called 911. The ambulance took him to Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance, the closest hospital, and, it turned out, the one best prepared to treat his condition.
p. 34
p. 35
After testing, it was determined a recent
Company of Mary, Castellano was
normal life again, including navigating the
root canal had resulted in an infection.
able to get excellent care at a hospital
many steps at his condominium building.
This infection, which had entered his blood
close to home, one with cardiovascular
He chose a rehab center in Long Beach,
stream, had most likely led to several strokes,
expertise that has expanded since a
which enabled his parents, who live in
two minor heart attacks, and severely
partnership with Keck Medicine of
Orange County, to visit every day.
damaged the mitral valve in his heart.
USC began last year. This partnership
After three weeks in rehab, Castellano
allows the highly trained cardiologists
went to his mother-in-law’s single-floor
interventional cardiologist at the hospital,
and surgeons to offer the South Bay
home in Santa Ana before finally returning to
performed several of the diagnostic
community the highest level of expert
his own home at the end of September. Then
procedures which determined the extent of
care and the latest in academic research.
it was off to cardiac rehab five times a week
Murrad Abdelkarim, MD, an
the damage. “First was an echocardiogram, which
“All care has been improved by the involvement and expertise of Keck Medicine
for six weeks at Little Company of Mary. “They monitor you as you exercise on
showed an infection of his heart valve,”
of USC because we now have a full scope
the treadmill, stationary bike, elliptical,
says Dr. Abdelkarim, who noted that
of practice and capabilities,” says Dr.
while stretching and using light weights,”
Castellano was having trouble speaking
Abdelkarim. “We are able to care for patients
Castellano says. “That was cool, and
when he arrived. “That was followed by a
at all levels of the disease process.”
everyone there was awesome. The cardiac
transesophageal echocardiogram, in which a camera is placed down the food pipe. It showed extensive damage causing the valve to leak, which can lead to heart failure and permanent heart damage. As part of the workup, we also did a heart catheterization, which looks at internal pressure on the
“We’re able to care for patients at all levels of the disease process.” To illustrate the breadth of care available,
rehab team were very attentive, telling me
heart and arteries that send blood to the
he points to many minimally invasive
to slow down sometimes, letting me see how
heart muscle.”
procedures, such as Transcatheter Valve
it felt when working out at a peak level, or
Replacement (TAVR) and other heart
any level, as a way to test what I could and
with Jonathan C. Cash, MD, one of the
procedures, as well as open-heart surgery,
couldn’t do. I went every day. It helped me
area’s leading cardiovascular surgeons and
which was necessary for Castellano. And
to regain strength, after being weak from
an assistant professor of surgery at Keck
because of the partnership with Keck
being in the hospital and the rehab center
Medicine of USC, gave their recommendations
Medicine of USC, patients can receive the
and losing 20 pounds.”
about the best course of treatment.
latest in surgical care without having to
Afterward, Dr. Abdelkarim, together
“They strongly advised that I get the valve replaced right away,” Castellano
leave the South Bay. Castellano’s hospital stay lasted a week,
It also helped him prepare for a monthlong vacation in Southeast Asia that had been arranged before he got ill. The trip
says. “I was very surprised because I’ve
and he was very thankful for the medical
involved a lot of walking through city
led a fairly active and healthy life. Besides
care he received. “It made me appreciate
streets, ruins, and temples in Singapore,
carpentry, I enjoy woodworking, walking,
how much doctors and nurses work,” he says.
Vietnam and Cambodia. “If I hadn’t pushed
hiking, and golf, which I used to play
“They were very attentive, and I had very
myself and my wife hadn’t pushed me to
professionally in the minor leagues.”
good care. I owe my life to the two doctors
go every day to cardiac rehab, it would not
and the teams at Providence Little Company
have been as active a vacation,” he says.
Five days after entering the hospital, Dr. Cash performed open-heart surgery to replace Castellano’s mitral valve. By having the surgery at Little
p. 36
of Mary Torrance.” Following discharge, Castellano went to rehab to help him get on track toward a
He also credits his wife and his previous work as a professional golfer for helping him cope with his illness and the long road
to recovery. “Golfing is a kick in the teeth every day,” Castellano says. “Now I feel great, work out every day, and my strength is coming back. The weights at the
It took expert hospital care, compassionate rehab services and a determined will for Chris Castellano to return the activities he loves.
gym and yoga help to strengthen my core. As for endurance, I’m at 95%, and I get tired when I work out.” He is also mindful of his doctors’ warnings that because of the blood thinners he takes, he needs to be aware of the risk of bleeding if he sustains any head injuries or cuts. Overall, though, he feels close to resuming his life as it was before heart disease and is about to test his stamina. “I’m going to help a friend, a contractor, to put in finished carpentry for one of his clients,” Castellano explains. “I want to see how my body will react before looking to get hired somewhere again. My work is so physical, loading and unloading tools, and the work itself is so demanding. I know I can do the work. It’s a matter of having the strength and endurance. I feel like I’m on my way.”
Call To Action + For more information on cardiac surgery services at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers San Pedro and Torrance call 844-925-0942.
p. 37
PHILANTHROPY Kevin & Jan Curtis create a lasting legacy Supporting Neurological Science
“We felt so blessed to be in the position that we could do something for our
mental well-being,” Jan says. The idea of funding the neuro operating
community,” Jan says. “First and foremost in
suite spoke to their hearts. Many years ago,
everal years ago, Kevin and Jan Curtis
our minds was: How can we give back. What’s
Kevin’s grandmother, Margaret Curtis,
attended a dinner and presentation at
that saying? ‘Giving while you’re living.’”
donated money to obtain one of the first
a friend’s house regarding the heart health
The neuro operating suite is equipped
S
Gamma Knife radiological systems—a
program at Providence Little Company of Mary
with the latest technology, allowing surgeons
radiation technology used to treat tumors and
Medical Center Torrance. They left impressed
to safely and effectively conduct the most
other neurological abnormalities—in Southern
with what they had heard about the hospital—
anatomically difficult brain surgeries.
California, at Scripps Memorial Hospital
and with a desire to help if they could. Last year, the Curtises were able to make
Prior to making the gift, the Curtises had
in La Jolla. The Curtis family attended a
dinner with the Chief Executive Garry Olney,
presentation marking the donation at Scripps.
good on their desire to support Providence
and neurosurgeon Walavan Sivakumar, MD,
“We discussed continuing the legacy of his
Little Company of Mary. After Kevin sold
to discuss the hospital’s needs. Dr. Sivakumar
grandmother,” Jan says. “It seemed to be the
his longtime family business, he and Jan
is a fellowship-trained neurosurgeon with a
perfect approach for us and the Curtis family.”
donated $750,000 to help fund a state-of-
focus on skull base and minimally invasive
Kevin and Jan also wanted to make an
the-art neuro operating suite at the hospital.
and endoscopic neurosurgery. He talked about
impact in their local community and ensure
Contributions to fund the operating suite
the hospital’s growth as a major neurosciences
that world-class health care is available to
were also made by their friends Joann and
treatment center and its affiliation with
their friends and neighbors.
Jim Hunter, who had introduced them to the
Pacific Neurosciences Institute, a large, highly
hospital at that dinner years ago.
regarded neuroscience practice in Los Angeles.
The gift has had a huge impact for the
“Dr. Sivakumar explained that the brain is
“You look around and say, Is there something we can do for our community?” Jan says. “It’s our neighborhood hospital.
hospital and an equally significant impact
the organ we know the least about, and yet it
We want to have excellence in our own
for Kevin and Jan.
has such an impact on the entire physical and
community.”
Photos taken in 2019 prior to COVID-19
p. 39
PHILANTHROPY
A World Traveler Who Loved Her Hometown
1960s. She was in the travel business for
appreciated and will help others, says
many years, working for Marriott and travel
Jashdeep Dhoot, MD, the cardiologist at
agencies. She assisted people with bookings
Providence Little Company of Mary who
t’s little surprise that Pamela Ryan, a
and would visit at least six countries a year.
treated Ryan.
Hermosa Beach woman who died last
She also enjoyed cooking and baking,
I
“Pamela was extremely grateful for the
August at age 73, decided to remember
says Don Smith, executor of her estate and a
care she received here, and asked if she
Providence Little Company of Mary Medical
personal friend.
could do anything to help,” Dr. Dhoot recalls.
Centers Torrance and San Pedro in her estate.
“She was always involved and followed
“I was so sorry to hear that she had passed,
According to her friends, Ryan loved life,
what was going on in the community,”
but it’s nice to know that her estate gift
appreciated the lifesaving care she received
Smith says. “She loved cooking, and could
will continue benefiting the patients of the
at the hospital and wanted to make sure
make anything from scratch. She was an
medical center for years to come.”
others had the best medical care possible.
exceptional chef.”
Ryan, who left a $1.6 million gift to the
Her friends will remember her generosity
In her later years, various ailments sent
toward the hospital as well as to her many
Providence Charities, gave from her heart,
her to Providence Little Company of Mary
friends. Before embarking on a trip to the
says friend and former colleague Judi
for treatment. She had a blood disorder
Solomon Islands in 2019—where she became
Hadfield of Napa Valley, California.
and broke bones on several occasions,
suddenly ill and died—Ryan had planned
Hadfield says.
a September party at her beach house in
“She was so bubbly and kindhearted. She knew how to live life,” Hadfield says. “She
“She got to know a lot of people, and she
had a large circle of friends and stayed in
always felt very comfortable at Providence,”
contact with them. She knew how to be a
she says. “She was very grateful that it was
good friend. She never forgot birthdays and
close by and there for her.”
brought small gifts from her travels to her friends and coworkers.” Ryan’s passion was seeing the world. She was born in Australia and lived in the South Bay since coming to the United States in the p. 40
“She enjoyed the care she got at the hospital
Hermosa Beach. Her friends showed up to toast her memory. “She invited a group of us to come to her house in early September. She had the party all planned,” Hadfield says. “We went
and decided she’d like to give a good portion
ahead with party even though she wasn’t
of her estate to the hospital,” Smith says.
there—knowing she would want us all to get
“They saved her life with their treatment.”
together. She somehow knew that might be
Her gift of $1.6 million is deeply
her send-off.”
THANK YOU
South Bay Community
From all of us at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers. The South Bay community’s outpouring of support during the COVID-19 pandemic has been extraordinary. With your support we have received more than 11,000 meal donations and over 48,000 in-kind donations, totaling $91,000 and $214,000 respectively. This support has helped nourish our front-line caregivers; and the cards and notes of thanks inspired each and every one of us. We are so fortunate to serve in a community with such heart.
NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
Providence Health & Services Administrative Offices 20555 Earl Street Torrance, CA 90503 888-HEALING providence.org/torrance providence.org/sanpedro
Torrance, CA Permit No. 89
Published by
310-376-7800 moontidemedia.com
p. 30 We offer a growing number of medical services in San Pedro.
p. 24 Neurologists repair a dangerous brain bleed.
p. 11 Take care of your heart.