VOLUME XI ISSUE 1
“
My whole world changed, my hospital never had to. WORLD-CLASS
”
CANCER CARE CLOSE TO HOME
STACY
PAT
JOHN
THERESA
RITA
CANCER CARE CLOSE TO HOME
‘Cancer’ is one of the most complicated, and frightening, diagnoses a patient can receive. Fortunately, for those confronting such a diagnosis, there’s much good news.
T
hanks to improved screening and diagnostic
capabilities, as well as innovative and novel
treatments, cancer survivorship has never
been higher. And, for residents of our
community, world-class cancer screening, diagnosis, and
treatment is available, close to home, at St. Clair Hospital. As of January 1, 2019, the St. Clair
Hospital Cancer Center restructured its
affiliation with UPMC Hillman Cancer
Center to provide in-network access
for all major insurers. Under this new
arrangement, cancer specialists from
St. Clair partner with oncology experts
from UPMC Hillman Cancer Center to
deliver cutting-edge and comprehensive care to patients.
“It’s truly the best of both worlds,”
says John T. Sullivan, M.D., MBA,
St. Clair’s Senior Vice President and
Chief Medical Officer. “St. Clair has the
latest in screening and diagnostic
technology and some of the leading
All of these components are seamlessly integrated
for the benefit of the patient, close to home, and with
St. Clair’s reputation for nationally recognized patient
safety, quality, patient satisfaction and value.”
“And,” says Dr. Sullivan, “because of this unique
arrangement, cancer care, like all services at St. Clair
“
CANCER CARE, LIKE ALL SERVICES AT ST. CLAIR HOSPITAL, IS IN-NETWORK FOR ALL MAJOR INSURERS, BOTH NOW AND FOR YEARS TO COME.
”
JOHN T. SULLIVAN, M.D., MBA, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER, ST. CLAIR HOSPITAL
Hospital, is in-network for all major insurers, both now and for years to come.”
“We have had a longstanding relation-
ship with St. Clair Hospital to bring our
oncology team to patients in that
region,” said Stanley M. Marks, M.D.,
Chairman of UPMC Hillman Cancer
Center. “Through this affiliation we’re
able to increase access for patients who
want to receive care from UPMC Hillman Cancer Center specialists.”
In the pages that follow, read how the
St. Clair Hospital Cancer Center is saving,
and changing, lives close to home.
If you have any questions pertaining to
cancer surgeons in the region, while UPMC brings
cancer care at St. Clair, including insurance-related
oncology, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
Helpline at 412.942.3333.
expert care in radiation therapy, hematology, and medical
2 I HouseCall I Volume XI Issue 1
questions, please call the St. Clair Hospital Cancer Center
TREATING CANCER
The St. Clair Hospital Cancer Center provides cutting-edge screening, diagnosis, and treatment services
in state-of-the-art facilities for a wide variety of cancers, including blood cancers, breast cancers, colorectal and GI cancers, endocrine and thyroid cancers, esophageal cancers, head and neck cancers, lung cancers, melanoma and other skin cancers, and prostate, bladder, and kidney cancers.
SCREENING AND DIAGNOSTIC CAPABILITIES • Colorectal Cancer Screening
• Echocardiography
• 3D Breast Imaging (Mammography)
• Low-Dose CT Lung Cancer Screening
• Mediastinoscopy
• Diagnostic Ultrasound
• Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) Screening
• Image-Guided Biopsy
• Nuclear Medicine
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Full Range of Pathology Services (Flow Cytometry; Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization; Immunohistochemistry; Next Generation Sequencing; Genomic Testing)
• Skin Cancer Screening • Cervical Cancer Screening (Pap Smears) • Bone Marrow Biopsies and Aspirations
• Computerized Axial Tomography (CT) Scan • Positron Emission Tomography / Computerized Axial Tomography Scan (PET/CT)
• Bronchoscopy
TREATMENT OPTIONS
ONCOLOGIC SURGERY
MEDICAL ONCOLOGY
RADIATION ONCOLOGY
aims to remove cancerous growth, or as much of it as possible. St. Clair’s surgical team has the technical expertise to perform the most advanced surgical and minimally invasive procedures.
CLINICAL TRIALS
uses chemotherapy and targeted drug therapy to focus on specific mutations, and kill cancer cells. An emerging and exciting form of medical oncology is immunotherapy, which uses the body’s immune system to attack cancer cells.
uses high-powered energy beams (i.e., x-rays) to shrink or kill cancerous tumors while preserving healthy surrounding tissue. The St. Clair Hospital Cancer Center has two stateof-the-art linear accelerators that deliver advanced treatments, including Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT) and Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT).
Physicians at the St. Clair Hospital Cancer Center have access to a wide array of clinical trials, which test new treatments for various forms of cancer.
Often, selecting the right treatment course can be overwhelming. A team of multidisciplinary specialists at the St. Clair Hospital Cancer Center work to meet each patient’s unique needs to formulate an integrated, cohesive, individualized plan of care. Patients with questions should speak with their physician or call the St. Clair Hospital Cancer Center Helpline at 412.942.3333. See patient story on Page 4
Volume XI Issue 1 I HouseCall I 3
CANCER CARE CLOSE TO HOME Continued from Page 3
“
I have Highmark insurance and was a bit worried . . . but St. Clair accepts all insurances, and I have had zero problems.
”
STACY CARR, PATIENT
STACY CARR:
Staying positive Grace is one of those qualities that is difficult to define, yet we know it when we see it. It can mean many things, including elegance, dignity and poise. Some people simply personify grace, and Stacy Carr is one of those people. Stacy, 44, lives in Castle Shannon with her husband James; they have two children, Kylie, 20, and Christopher, 9, and two dogs, Pepper and Coco, who are full-fledged family members. A few years ago, Stacy found a hard lump in her chest while she was snuggling with her son; she saw her gynecologist immediately. A mammogram and ultrasound revealed the presence of five breast tumors. It was an aggressive kind of cancer and she was treated with chemotherapy and underwent bilateral mastectomies. Since then, Stacy has been taking daily medication and a monthly injection. In April of last year, she began experiencing pain in her knee. Assuming it was a musculoskeletal injury, she saw an orthopedic surgeon who ordered a PET (positron emission tomography) scan. The surgeon ordered a full-body scan because of Stacy’s cancer history. It was a potentially lifesaving decision: the PET scan showed increased uptake in the breast area. The breast cancer was back. “It was fortunately a localized lesion, in exactly the same spot as before,” Stacy says. “I saw St. Clair breast surgeon Raye J. Budway, M.D., and she did a simple lumpectomy. I was able to go to work the next day; I’m an operations manager for a mortgage company. In addition to the lumpectomy, I am having both chemo and radiation. I’m still receiving the radiation, every day for 30 days.” 4 I HouseCall I Volume XI Issue 1
Stacy is a young woman and a mother who has had to endure breast cancer treatment twice in just four years. It would be understandable if she expressed anger or even bitterness at the unfairness of this, but Stacy came quickly to a place of graceful acceptance. “Having breast cancer was harder the first time,” she explains. “This time my attitude is, ‘I did it before; I can do it again.’ I have a positive attitude and I leave it in God’s hands. I have attained peace. It’s not easy; the effects of the chemo were more difficult to deal with than the surgery. But they gave me a pre-chemo cocktail that helped a lot. I experienced a lot of lethargy, but I still managed to work the entire time. Keeping busy was helpful. My husband and I decided that we would keep things as normal as possible for our children, and just live our regular lives. He takes care of the kids and my mother, Susan Fleischman, takes me to my appointments. My daughter is in school for nuclear medicine technology, so she understands what’s going on. I think it’s essential that you stay positive, keep living and don’t let cancer dictate your life.” Stacy has surrounded herself with love and support that helps her maintain her hope and positivity. That network consists of her husband and kids; her mother and her stepfather Barry, who “keep me grounded”; and her beloved dogs. “My dogs are a big help! They are actually getting me through this,” she claims. “They seem to sense that I’m sick and that I need a lot of love and attention. They are both at my side constantly.” Soft-spoken and thoughtful, Stacy stays focused on the blessings in her life, including having two healthy, happy children. She has deep gratitude for the care she has received, especially from the physicians who have managed her treatment. “I’m lucky to have doctors who are so aware and caring; they treat you like you’re special. In my first visit for radiation, my radiation oncologist Robert S.Werner, M.D. (Chief of Radiation Oncology at St. Clair), spent two hours with me. He explained
everything clearly and I could feel that he really cared about me. And I love Dr. Budway. She’s a phenomenal person and doctor. She gives you all the time you need, so you never feel rushed. There’s no textbook case and she explains everything about your unique cancer; she wants to be sure you understand. Dr. Budway is deeply aware of all the ramifications of a cancer diagnosis and treatment; she knows there’s a whole person, with a whole life, behind the diagnosis and treatment, and that person has to live with the scars.” After having endured two breast cancer journeys, Stacy lives with some scars, for certain; but she also has wisdom to share with others facing breast cancer or any other cancer. “A cancer diagnosis overwhelms you,” she says. “It’s easy to be passive, to just accept what you are told, because you’re in shock and you may feel numb. I advise people that they should never be afraid to get a second opinion; you have a right to one. Dr. Budway was my second opinion and I thank God for her. She made me feel at peace. I’ll be seeing her for the rest of my life. “I also encourage people to go to St. Clair Hospital. I love that hospital; it’s where my kids were born. It’s the perfect hospital: it’s modern and it has all the new technology. I received excellent care from everyone. I have Highmark insurance and was a bit worried when I first saw a sign at the Cancer Center and it referenced the affiliation with UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. But the St. Clair Hospital Cancer Center and St. Clair Hospital accept all insurances, and I have had zero problems.” Next patient story on Page 6
Raye J. Budway, M.D.
ROBERT S. WERNER, M.D. Dr. Werner is Chief of Radiation Oncology. He earned a medical degree at University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine in Philadelphia. He then completed a residency in radiation oncology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City. Dr. Werner is board-certified by the American Board of Radiology Therapeutic Radiology, and is affiliated with UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. His practice at St. Clair Hospital is in-network for all major insurers. To contact Dr. Werner, please call 412.502-3920.
RAYE J. BUDWAY, M.D. Dr. Budway specializes in breast surgery and general surgery, and serves as the Director, St. Clair Hospital Breast Care Center. Dr. Budway earned her medical degree at Hahnemann University Medical School, Philadelphia, and completed a residency in general surgery at The Western Pennsylvania Hospital. She then completed a fellowship in surgical critical care at UPMC. She previously served as the Site Program Director for the Allegheny General Hospital General Surgery Residency Program, and Director of the Surgical Breast Disease Program and Surgical Intensive Care at West Penn Hospital. She is board-certified in surgical critical care and general surgery. She is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and serves on the Fellowship’s Commission on Cancer. Dr. Budway practices with St. Clair Medical Services. To contact Dr. Budway, please call 412.942.7850. Volume XI Issue 1 I HouseCall I 5
CANCER CARE CLOSE TO HOME Continued from Page 5
JOHN HVIZDA:
Back on the farm One day not long after John Hvizda, 72, of Waynesburg, Greene County, was diagnosed with esophageal cancer, a neighbor pulled up to his house unexpectedly. Jesse wasn’t a close friend, but more of an acquaintance, and John invited him in, wondering what this visit was about. It was about cancer: Jesse had heard about John’s diagnosis of esophageal cancer and he thought he might be of some help. Jesse himself was recovering from the same cancer and had undergone the exact procedure and treatment that John was facing. John says that Jesse told him what to expect and gave him pointers about how to manage his recovery. It was, John says, enormously reassuring to hear from someone who could speak from experience, and he is grateful that Jesse took the initiative to approach him. In the summer of 2016, John was referred to St. Clair’s Chief of Thoracic Surgery Richard H. Maley, Jr., M.D., after an endoscopy revealed cancer. “John initially presented with difficulty swallowing and indigestion, and he had a cardiac workup done and three stents placed,” Dr. Maley says. “He experienced some esophageal bleeding, so an endoscopy was performed and it showed esophageal adenocarcinoma, a five-centimeter mass at the gastroesophageal junction (where the esophagus meets the stomach) and one strongly positive lymph node on the right side of his neck. Biopsy of the node showed cancer cells. The tumor wasn’t causing obstruction, fortunately, so nutrition was not a problem. Since the cancer had spread only to a lymph node and not to his liver or another organ, and because he is young, we were more aggressive and gave him chemo.” Dr. Maley consulted Robert A. VanderWeele, M.D., a board-certified specialist in hematology and medical oncology, who ordered a course of pre-op chemotherapy. A repeat PET (positron emission tomography) scan showed the lymph node had become negative after the chemo, and this was great news. In Sept 2016, John had surgery at St. Clair: an esophagectomy. “Dr. Maley removed the cancer, which was right at the spot where the esophagus enters the stomach,” John says. “He pulled my stomach up to my throat and re-attached it, so I now have a new, shorter esophagus. He also removed lymph nodes. I had more chemo after the surgery, and the whole experience was rough, but it cured me.” The post-op pathology showed that 22 nodes were negative and there was no viable tumor remaining. “He had what we call a complete pathological response, which gives him the best prognosis,” Dr. Maley says. “John’s recovery was mostly uneventful, although he has needed a few esophageal dilations. As of now, he has no evidence of disease, based on his PET scans.”
6 I HouseCall I Volume XI Issue 1
“
The nursing care was great; I was treated like a king. But Dr. Maley regularly checked on me himself. I like that he’s very direct and he always kept me informed.
”
JOHN HVIZDA, PATIENT
John, who is insured by Colonial Penn, is appreciative of Dr. Maley’s
to help. “He wanted me to help a woman who had the same diagnosis
skill and the personal concern he shows for his patients. “The surgery
as me. I remembered how much it helped me to have Jesse to talk
was more radical than I expected, but Dr. Maley took great care of me,
to, so I wanted to do that for her.”
all the way through. I was in St. Clair for 11 days. The nursing care was
John is fully recovered, regaining the weight he lost and keeping
great; I was treated like a king. But Dr. Maley regularly checked on me
busy tending his farm. In 2018, John was well enough to take a trip
himself. I like that he’s very direct and he always kept me informed.”
to Nova Scotia. He and Darlene are looking forward to more travels,
John lives in Waynesburg with his wife, Darlene, on a 100-acre farm
and they are grateful to the physicians and nurses whose excellent
that he shares with his brother-in-law. He’s retired after 37 years of
care has made that possible. “I want to especially thank Dr. Maley
working for a power plant, and he and Darlene keep busy and active with
and Dr. VanderWeele; Mohan S. Phanse, M.D., my gastroenterologist,
the farm, travel and family events. Their two daughters and their families
who discovered my cancer and referred me to them; and the
live nearby, and the Hvizdas enjoy attending high school wrestling
incredible nurses of St. Clair Hospital. They were as happy for
matches to see their grandsons Trey and Ryan compete. They also have
my success as we were.”
Next patient story on Page 8
two granddaughters, Camryn and Caitlyn. For John, one of the most challenging aspects of having cancer was having to give up his usual activities. “I didn’t like being struck down, but the chemo made me feel tired.” His endurance was aided by support from family and friends who came to help with the farm, mowing the grass and bringing meals. He has a deep appreciation for those who step up to help in times of crisis. In 2015, John’s family experienced a devastating loss when his son-in-law Chris Dugan died of cancer. “Chris was a strong, healthy young man, my best friend and the best man I ever knew,” John says. “My granddaughters lost their dad. It was hard to believe
Richard H. Maley, Jr., M.D.
it when cancer happened in our family again about a year later.” His appreciation for the generosity of others has inspired him to “pay it forward,” and so when Dr. VanderWeele asked him if he was willing to talk to one of his patients about his cancer experience, he was happy
ROBERT A. VANDERWEELE, M.D. Dr. VanderWeele specializes in hematology/ oncology. He earned a medical degree at Drexel University College of Medicine, and then completed a residency in internal medicine at UPMC. He later completed a fellowship in hematology and oncology at UPMC. Dr. VanderWeele is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and is affiliated with UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. His practice at St. Clair Hospital is in-network for all major insurers. To contact Dr. VanderWeele, please call 412.942.1750.
RICHARD H. MALEY, JR., M.D. Dr. Maley is Chief of Thoracic Surgery at St. Clair Hospital. He earned his medical degree at Hahnemann University School of Medicine. Dr. Maley completed a residency in general surgery and a fellowship in trauma and critical care at the University of Kentucky, and a residency in cardiothoracic surgery at UPMC. Dr. Maley then completed a fellowship in thoracic surgical oncology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City. He is board-certified by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Dr. Maley practices with St. Clair Medical Services. To contact Dr. Maley, please call 412.942.5710. Volume XI Issue 1 I HouseCall I 7
CANCER CARE CLOSE TO HOME Continued from Page 7
RITA TROCHECK:
Strong and determined For patients diagnosed with cancer, hope and healing are essential, and can come from many sources. For Rita Trocheck, 52, of Presto, hope and healing came in the form of a beautiful baby boy named Giulian. Giulian, her first grandchild, arrived just a few weeks before her cancer diagnosis. Throughout every step of her long and arduous cancer journey, he has been a bright light, a blessing and an inspiration. He was, she says, “my best medicine,” and a powerful reason to get well. Today, two years after diagnosis, Rita is cancer-free and enjoying every precious moment with Giulian, her husband Vince, her son Vincent, his wife Hillary and son Leonardo, and daughters Desiree (Giulian’s mother) and Nina. When Rita turned 50 in 2017, she scheduled a screening colonoscopy,
left her with weakness in her legs due to neuropathy. In April 2018,
in keeping with the then standard recommendation. Life was good; her son
her ileostomy was reversed, and a PET (positron emission tomography)
Vincent was playing pro hockey in the NHL for the Florida Panthers and
scan in October provided welcome news: she was clear of cancer.
the family attended as many games as possible. Her daughter Desiree
Another PET scan in January 2019 was also clear, and she will have
had just given birth to a healthy boy, and Rita was overjoyed. She was only
a colonoscopy annually to monitor her status.
worried that she might have diverticulitis. But when she woke up after
Rita feels great today. She has made radical changes to her
her colonoscopy, she was shocked to learn from gastroenterologist
lifestyle: her diet is a healthy one with no red meat, dairy, sugar
Lisa A. Oliva, D.O., that she had Stage 3 colorectal cancer. After telling
and alcohol. She even gave up her favorite, red licorice. She eats lots
her husband and her son, Rita called her lifelong friend, St. Clair Hospital
of fruits and vegetables and occasional organic turkey, and although
Breast Care Center Director Raye J. Budway, M.D., who referred her
she acknowledges that it’s a strict regimen, she has a strong will
immediately to St. Clair colorectal surgeon Scott A. Holekamp, M.D.
and is determined to be as healthy as she can be.
Dr. Holekamp, she says, calmed her fear, telling her, “You’re going to get through this.” Insured through Aetna, Rita says her care team also included Vincent E. Reyes, Jr., M.D., Chief of Hematology & Medical Oncology, and Robert S. Werner, M.D., Chief of Radiation Oncology. While continuing to work as an underwriter for a bank, she had five weeks of both radiation and chemotherapy prior to two surgeries — a colon resection with ileostomy and a hysterectomy. Next came another four weeks of chemotherapy, which
Scott A. Holekamp, M.D., right, and Leigh H. Nadler, M.D. in the OR.
Scott A. Holekamp, M.D.
SCOTT A. HOLEKAMP, M.D. Dr. Holekamp specializes in colon and rectal surgery. He earned his medical degree at University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, and completed a residency in general surgery at Beth Israel Medical Center, New York City. He then completed a fellowship in colon and rectal surgery at the University of Miami /Jackson Memorial Hospital. He is board-certified by the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. Dr. Holekamp practices with St. Clair Medical Services. To contact Dr. Holekamp, please call 412.572.6192.
8 I HouseCall I Volume XI Issue 1
With the cancer behind her, Rita reflects on the experience with gratitude and wonder. She claims that a person with cancer needs three essential things: great doctors, a strong support system and a positive attitude. “I can’t say enough about my doctors. They were perfectionists and I appreciated that. Dr. Holekamp is upbeat and full of life, and I was lucky to have my friend Raye Budway (M.D.) involved. She assisted in my surgery and that was reassuring.” Cancer is very much a mind game, Rita states. “You have to stay positive: tell yourself you are going to make yourself feel and look good. I stayed calm and confident for my kids; I never let them see me sick or scared, and I told them I would be there for them always.” Rita’s support system was anchored by her husband Vince. “Vince was so encouraging; if I was feeling down, he pulled me right up. He helped me at every step.” Cancer has turned Rita into an advocate for colonoscopy screening: “It’s so important. Women don’t realize that colon cancer is common for us. Get screened as early as possible and pay attention to what you eat. Unhealthy eating can make you very sick.” There were moments in her cancer journey when things seemed to happen with amazing synchrony. “My daughter having the baby just weeks before my diagnosis felt like a gift from God. I believe Giulian came to help me. He’s a happy, pleasant baby, and every day when I saw his face, I felt better and I did better. He is pure joy, and now we have another beautiful baby, my grandson Leo, who is eight months old.” Rita’s mother was diagnosed with colon cancer, too, at age 80, just months after Rita; she underwent surgery and is doing well today. The coincidence of mother and daughter going through colorectal cancer together brought the whole family, including Rita’s brothers, closer, she says. Rita had a touching experience when she accompanied her mother to a radiation treatment session at St. Clair. “I wasn’t happy to be there; it was cold outside, I was tired and I was feeling kind of sorry for myself while I sat in the waiting room. I was thinking, ‘Why do I have to be here?’ A young couple came in and we started talking. They were just 26 and he had colon cancer — exactly the same kind I had had. I told him my story, and he cried to hear it. He said that talking to me helped him. And then I knew why I was there — there was a purpose in it.” Rita’s neuropathy is improving and is expected to resolve completely. Meanwhile, she is enjoying her family and going regularly to Florida Panthers games. The family attends all games within a three-hour drive, and travels to Florida once a month during hockey season to support Vincent and to see her grandson Leo. Cancer has changed her, she says. “I’ve changed the way I talk to my kids; I’m more sensitive and I try harder to see the good in people. When people are behaving badly, there’s a reason and I try not to judge. I know that we can’t
“
I can’t say enough about
my doctors. They were perfectionists and I appreciated that.
”
RITA TROCHECK, PATIENT
count on tomorrow. Do what you need to do today, and make your loved ones happy.” Next patient story on Page 10
Volume XI Issue 1 I HouseCall I 9
CANCER CARE CLOSE TO HOME Continued from Page 9
PAT SLOWEY:
Back in the gym again Every year in the fall, Pat Slowey looks forward to getting on his bike and cycling around the region, enjoying the beauty of the season while getting great exercise.
Pat, 61, is a retired businessman, father of five and self-described fitness nut who lives in Upper St. Clair with his wife, Annie. He knows to expect a little temporary discomfort when he first gets back on his bike, but in September 2017, that discomfort felt worse than usual and did not resolve. “I called my urologist, Kevin P. Bordeau, M.D.; I’ve been seeing him for PSA (prostate specific antigen) blood tests for five or six years. My PSA level was up and he recommended a biopsy. That made me nervous, so he said we could get an MRI instead. The MRI came back clean, to my great relief. But the follow-up PSA a few months later was elevated, and there was no choice but to do a biopsy.” Ten of the 12 tissue samples were cancer. It was a shock to Pat and his wife. A dedicated athlete, Pat lifts weights, does Pilates, eats healthfully and is in great shape. He is retired and owns a popular gym, St. Clair Fitness in Upper St. Clair, where he regularly works out. “I’m very healthy; I don’t smoke or drink; I’ve never been in the hospital and I don’t look my age. It was hard to accept that I had cancer. My kids (Dan, Kevin, Pat, Bridget and Maggie) think I’m indestructible. Right away I did research and called a doctor friend who helped me understand it and opened my eyes. I prepared for the surgery by seeing my Pilates instructor twice a week, for exercises to strengthen my pelvic floor.” Dr. Bordeau recommended robotic prostatectomy, the removal of the prostate gland using the da Vinci™ robotic surgery system. Dr. Bordeau has extensive experience with this technology, and also with a nervesparing and nerve-monitoring technology that preserves the nerves that control urination and erections. “The great fear that people have is that the nerves will be severed during surgery,” Dr. Bordeau says. “This technology enables me to pinpoint the location of the nerves in order to avoid them.” Initially, Pat considered having brachytherapy, a type of internal radiation therapy in which tiny radioactive seeds are implanted in the prostate gland. With this treatment option, there is a lower risk of nerve damage. “The thought of wearing diapers and being
“
Dr. Bordeau and the nurses treated me like I was family... I quickly learned that I was at the best hospital, St. Clair Hospital.
impotent is a major concern, but I realized that I had to do whatever it took to stay alive,” he says. “When I considered the potential for the cancer to spread, I knew I needed to have the surgery. I want to live. Cancer has a way of grounding you; you become clear about what really matters.”
10 I HouseCall I Volume XI Issue 1
PAT SLOWEY, PATIENT
”
Pat’s surgery took place at St. Clair Hospital in July 2018. He spent
technology is a bonus. He handled everything perfectly and that gave
two nights in the Hospital, and although he experienced post-op pain
me confidence. I hug him when I see him because he saved my life.”
due to bladder spasms, his overall experience was strongly positive.
His experience has made him an activist for prostate cancer screening.
“I was blown away by St. Clair Hospital,” he says. “It’s an extraordinary
“There is so much ignorance about prostate cancer that it’s shocking,”
place. Dr. Bordeau and the nurses treated me like I was family. When
he says. “Guys don’t want to face this; they hear stories about erectile
I was in pain, the nurse manager on 6E, Sharon Cropp, R.N., said to me,
dysfunction and they’re afraid. Well, mine is a good story with a great
‘I’m so sorry that you’re having pain.’ It mattered to her that I was having
outcome and I share it. I post information about prostate screening
pain! When you’re scared and hurting, that empathy means so much.”
in my gym.
Other patients at St. Clair Hospital would not be surprised at Pat’s
“My Dad died when I was in my 20s and I never really knew the
assessment of the Hospital’s nurses, who consistently rank in the top
family medical history. You can’t go by that anyway; you have to get the
decile nationally for the skill they demonstrate, for their attention to
screening. Prostate cancer is a very common cancer in American men.
special or personal needs, and for keeping patients informed, among
Don’t wait until you have symptoms, but if you have symptoms, see your
many other things that make a difference during a hospitalization.
primary care physician or urologist as soon as possible. Looking back,
As a former corporate chief commercial officer who is covered by United Healthcare insurance, Pat understood that executives appreciate
I realize that I was having a symptom, with trouble urinating at night. I’ve had guys tell me that they aren’t worried, because prostate cancer
positive feedback on nurses, physicians and other caregivers. He sent an
has a 90 percent cure rate; my answer is that if you don’t get your
email to St. Clair President and CEO Jim Collins, praising the remarkable
PSA screening, you might not be in that 90 percent.”
care he had experienced, and Jim invited him to have breakfast. “I told
Next patient story on Page 12
Jim Collins that St. Clair seems to have a ‘secret sauce’ — something very special that the entire staff knows and practices. I could have gone to any hospital. My son Kevin played major league baseball for eight years; he has great connections and he made an appointment for me at Cleveland Clinic. He said, ‘Dad, you have to go to the best place.’ Well, I had the best surgeon, Kevin Bordeau, and I quickly learned that I was at the best hospital, St. Clair Hospital.” Today, Pat’s PSA is clean and he has fully recovered. He attended Dr. Bordeau’s prostate cancer support group and found that very helpful. He says he was working out again just three weeks after his surgery, and it took about four months for him to get completely back to his pre-surgery condition — although he has not tried biking yet. “Cancer tests your faith; it was hard on me, but also on my wife and my kids. I realize cancer is random and I dodged a bullet. I feel blessed and grateful. Dr. Bordeau is incredibly skillful and the nerve-sparing
Kevin P. Bordeau, M.D.
KEVIN P. BORDEAU, M.D. Dr. Bordeau specializes in urology and robotic / minimally invasive surgery. He earned his medical degree at Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, and then completed a residency in urology at Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Va. Dr. Bordeau is board-certified by the American Board of Urology and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He practices with St. Clair Medical Services. To contact Dr. Bordeau, please call 412.572.6194.
Volume XI Issue 1 I HouseCall I 11
CANCER CARE CLOSE TO HOME Continued from Page 11
THERESA GREENWOOD
A true miracle Do you believe in miracles? Theresa Greenwood does.
Her oncologist, Vincent E. Reyes, Jr., M.D., Chief of Hematology & Medical Oncology, does, too, and calls Theresa “my miracle.” A profoundly spiritual woman, Theresa finds wisdom, comfort and hope in prayer, and she needed all of those things when
she was diagnosed with advanced cancer. It began one morning
when Theresa, 63, who lives in South Fayette, awoke to find a
hard lump on her breastbone. She contacted her primary care
physician, Donald E. McFarland, D.O., who immediately ordered a mammogram. That led to a sonogram and biopsy, and an
unforgettable call from Dr. McFarland: “Theresa, you need to see an oncologist, a cancer specialist.” He referred her to Dr. Reyes. “Dr. Reyes told me I had Stage 4 lung cancer with metastasis to the
bones in my spine and my lymph nodes. I felt fine; I had no symptoms and was working as a waitress. It was bad news — he said the prognosis was six months to a year. I felt like my brain turned upside down. At first, I said no to chemo, because my mind simply could not absorb this, and chemo scared me. Then it occurred to me that by going through it I could help someone else; maybe the doctors would learn something from my case. Dr. Reyes assured me that I could quit anytime. Knowing I had that choice helped, so I agreed to it. “I have two kids — Melissa, who is 46, and Stephen, 37. I could not tell them; I had my best friend Becky call them, and then they called me. That was the hardest thing I have ever faced. I was scared, but I put my trust in God and Dr. Reyes; I did everything he told me to do. I told him I could handle the spiritual journey, while he handled the science, but we were on this journey together.” Theresa’s treatment began with radiation therapy to her spine at St. Clair Hospital Cancer Center, under the care of radiation oncologist Felicia E. Snead, M.D. That was an essential first step, as the growing tumors threatened to cause paralysis. Next, she underwent 10 months
“
of intense chemotherapy. It wasn’t easy — she kept working as a waitress throughout the entire course of chemo, and the job entailed long hours,
Dr. Reyes is living proof that you can be a genius and still be good, humble and human. The entire team at St. Clair Hospital Cancer Center is great.
”
12 I HouseCall I Volume XI Issue 1
THERESA GREENWOOD, PATIENT
on her feet constantly. Still, Theresa chose to view it all with positivity and gratitude: “It all helped me: chemo, radiation and prayer. I was grateful that I could still work and that the cancer happened now and not when I was raising my kids. I had only myself to take care of, and I could work, come home and sleep.” It was working. But then the bottom fell out; the sternal tumor recurred, grew and came through Theresa’s chest wall. It created a deep hole, three inches wide and ½ inch deep, and it was very painful. Due to the tumor’s
proximity to her heart, radiation was not an option. “I was referred for
Four years later, Theresa, who is insured through traditional
wound care; I had specialized nurses come to my house to treat the hole
Medicare, is still taking the medication. It has become routine for her:
in my chest. It was awful; I needed a lot of pain medicine, and I was very
“It’s just something I have to do, like brushing my teeth.” The only side
sick. I reached a point where I could no longer work. I called my kids
effect she has is fatigue, but she manages to handle a part-time job.
and told them it was time for them to come: time to say goodbye.”
She has a new role, as a home health aide for older adults. She likes it.
Theresa was gracefully accepting of death. “I was okay with the
Theresa reflects on her cancer journey with gratitude and awe.
idea that I was going to die. I envisioned myself embraced in the arms
“I’m amazed by what happened to me. It seems that God wanted me to
of God, at peace, and that helped me. I was suffering and I saw death
keep living. I was already a spiritual person and I can’t imagine going
as a release. I knew my kids would be fine.”
through this without that; it kept me from feeling sorry for myself.
When her kids came to Pittsburgh, they went together to see
Cancer nearly wipes you out, but I kept a grateful heart, no matter what.
Dr. Reyes, to talk about hospice care. “He said he had just one more
I was in good hands with Dr. Reyes and God. Dr. Reyes is the best doctor;
option before that. It was a new drug. I was physically and emotionally
it’s a blessing simply to be in his presence, to hear his voice and see
exhausted and didn’t feel I could continue with a new treatment, but
his smile. He is living proof that you can be a genius and still be good,
Melissa spoke up and said, ‘Mom, you have to; I’m not going to give you
humble and human. The entire team at the St. Clair Hospital Cancer
up when there is one more chance.’ So I agreed to try the new drug.”
Center is great; physician assistant Sarah Magilson, PA-C was excellent,
The drug worked, and worked quickly, astonishing Dr. Reyes. It was one of the immunotherapy drugs that are transforming cancer treatment. “We had tried chemotherapy and radiation, and Theresa
and I needed her as much as I needed Dr. Reyes. They’re close by and always on call; they call you right back when you need something. “I love St. Clair Hospital. I had my babies at St. Clair, and I nearly
was not getting better,” he explains. “Her chest wound was terrible and
died from an ectopic pregnancy many years ago. St. Clair saved my life
she needed a lot of pain medication; it was heartbreaking. But now we
then, and now they have saved it a second time. In April, it will be four
had immunotherapy; it was the last thing to try.” Theresa’s wound began
years since I was diagnosed and given a six- to 12-month prognosis.
to heal immediately. In just a few months, it disappeared. She was able
Dr. Reyes says we can think about stopping the medication soon.
to discontinue the pain medication and go back to work. “Theresa is
Imagine that. I have my family: my kids are wonderful, and I have five
my miracle patient,” says Dr. Reyes. “It was the most dramatic change
beautiful grandchildren. When I get to see them, I am on cloud nine.” n
I’ve ever witnessed. To use a baseball analogy, we oncologists always hope to get a base hit; a single is a victory. Theresa is a grand slam.”
FELICIA E. SNEAD, M.D. Dr. Snead specializes in radiation oncology. She earned a medical degree at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York City, and then completed a residency in radiation oncology at New York Presbyterian/ ColumbiaPresbyterian Medical Center, New York City. Dr. Snead is board-certified by the American Board of Radiology-Radiation Oncology and is affiliated with UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. Her practice at St. Clair Hospital is in-network for all major insurers.
Vincent E. Reyes, Jr., M.D.
To contact Dr. Snead, please call 412.502.3920.
VINCENT E. REYES, JR., M.D. Dr. Reyes is Chief of Hematology & Medical Oncology at St. Clair Hospital. He earned his medical degree at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, and completed a residency in internal medicine at Temple University Hospital, Philadelphia. He then completed a fellowship in hematology and oncology at Fox Chase Cancer Center, also in Philadelphia. Dr. Reyes is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine. His practice at St. Clair Hospital is in-network for all major insurers. He also serves as Assistant Medical Director–Medical Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. To contact Dr. Reyes, please call 412.942.1750. Volume XI Issue 1 I HouseCall I 13
INNOVATIVE CARDIAC CARE
Editor’s note: As previewed in a prior issue of HouseCall, Andy C. Kiser, M.D., FACS, FACC, FCCP, St. Clair Hospital’s new Chief of Cardiac Surgery, and Jeffrey C. Liu, M.D., FHRS, St. Clair’s Director of Cardiac Electrophysiology, have begun offering patients suffering from chronic atrial fibrillation a pioneering cardiac procedure. Convergent hybrid ablation, a procedure developed and promoted internationally by Dr. Kiser, combines a surgical approach with standard catheter ablation in a combined ‘best of both worlds’ procedure that substantially improves the efficacy rate. HouseCall recently talked with two of their patients.
A NEW ERA IN CARDIAC SURGERY HAS BEGUN AT ST. CLAIR KATHY REVEILLE
Out and about, again
K
athryn (Kathy) Reveille, 64, of Baldwin Township, has been looking forward to the warm weather of spring, so she will finally be able to take her two dogs, Ollie and Barney, for a
walk. It’s been a long time since she was able to do that, but thanks to a life-changing procedure performed at St. Clair in February, she can look forward with confidence to a renewed, healthier way of life. For several years, Kathy has been living with severe, chronic atrial fibrillation, the most common form of arrhythmia, or cardiac rhythm disorder. Atrial fibrillation (or AFib) occurs when the heart’s atria, or upper chambers, contract in an erratic and ineffective way, resulting in an irregular heartbeat and palpitations. In this state, the heart cannot sufficiently pump oxygenated blood to the body’s organs, resulting in symptoms that range from minimal to severe. Kathy’s symptoms were severe and disabling: “I couldn’t cross a room without becoming short of breath, and my heart rate was so high that my chest hurt. I had pain, constant anxiety and fluid retention; I gained a lot of weight. It got to the point where I couldn’t even go to the supermarket. I love my dogs, but I could no longer take them for walks; I was in and out of the hospital. My life had become very difficult.” As an experienced and versatile registered nurse who had worked in critical care, public health and other specialties, Kathy was well
“
I finally have hope for a normal life.
”
KATHY REVEILLE, PATIENT
14 I HouseCall I Volume XI Issue 1
informed about her condition. She was seeing a team of expert St. Clair Hospital physicians: Dr. Liu; Ryan W. Zuzek, M.D., an interventional cardiologist; and Stephen G. Hudak, M.D., an internist. Despite their interventions, Kathy’s atrial fibrillation did not respond to medications that usually help control heart rate and rhythm, and a 2017 ablation, in which scar tissue is created inside the heart to interrupt rogue electrical signals, did not resolve the condition. “Things were looking bleak,” Kathy says. “I kept getting worse, and I was desperate for help.”
Help arrived in December 2018, when Dr. Liu told Kathy about
groin; together they do essentially the same thing to destroy the
Dr. Kiser, the new Chief of Cardiac Surgery who was coming to St. Clair
pathways that make my heart beat erratically.”
in January. Dr. Kiser is an internationally recognized cardiothoracic
The procedure took place in mid-February. Dr. Kiser did his portion
surgeon, known for developing innovative, minimally invasive procedures
of the procedure first, followed by Dr. Liu. The procedure went perfectly,
for cardiac surgery and for the surgical treatment of atrial fibrillation.
and her heart converted to a normal sinus rhythm quickly, during
“Dr. Liu said, ‘He’s the pioneer of a new ablation
“
procedure with a high success rate,’ Kathy recalls. “Finally, I had reason to be hopeful.”
“Kathy had severe, complex atrial fibrillation with heart failure and shortness of breath; she was very
ACTIVITIES AND REGAIN HER QUALITY OF LIFE.
ablation procedure for several reasons: first, because she had persistent atrial fibrillation that in atrial fibrillation all the time. Second, she had co-morbid conditions that had compromised our previous success in treating her. A more
says Dr. Kiser. “We were ready. The Electrophysiology
ABLE TO RESUME NORMAL
compromised. She was perfect for the hybrid
had not responded to previous treatment; she was
top of the left atrium that was easy for me to reach,”
KATHY WILL BE
According to Dr. Liu, Kathy was an excellent candidate for the hybrid ablation procedure.
Dr. Kiser’s portion of the surgery. “It was a place at the
”
Kathy understood that Dr. Kiser was able, with special surgical tools that he designed, to go to places in the heart where traditional ablation could not go. Dr. Kiser uses a laparoscopic instrument that he inserts
prepared; we had done a simulation, and everything fell into place perfectly. There wasn’t a single problem.” Post-operatively, Kathy was cared for in St. Clair’s Cardiovascular Surgery Unit (CVSU), and was discharged to home in three days. Kathy’s heart rate is now steady in a normal sinus rhythm and she
ANDY C. KISER, M.D., FACS, FACC, FCCP, CHIEF OF CARDIAC SURGERY, ST. CLAIR HOSPITAL
aggressive approach was definitely indicated.”
(EP) Lab and the Operating Room (OR) were well
is free of symptoms. She no longer needs blood pressure and other cardiac medications. She is getting her strength back and thinking about returning to work. “I finally have hope for a normal life. I recommend
that anyone who is struggling with atrial fib consider seeing Dr. Kiser and Dr. Liu. I have so much respect for both of them. The whole team at St. Clair was first rate.” Dr. Kiser says that Kathy’s prognosis is excellent. “Kathy will be able
under the breastbone, to reach the back of the heart. “This is how
to resume normal activities and regain her quality of life. We’ll see her
I understood it,” Kathy says. “Dr. Kiser goes to the outside of the heart,
every two to six weeks for a while, and then on a regular basis over
through the upper abdomen, and Dr. Liu goes to the inside, through the
three years.”
Continued on Page 18
Dr. Kiser, center rear, and Dr Liu, second from left, perform a convergent hybrid ablation procedure on Kathy Reveille.
Volume XI Issue 1 I HouseCall I 15
INNOVATIVE CARDIAC CARE Continued from Page 15
DOYLE DWAYNE DUKE
It turned out that Doyle needed additional surgical intervention. Dr. Kiser discovered during pre-operative testing that the left atrial
All the way from Oklahoma
appendage in Doyle’s heart was abnormally large, and could be
Doyle Dwayne Duke, 49, lives in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, and he came all the way to St. Clair Hospital for treatment of his heart disease by Drs. Kiser and Liu. Doyle has had heart problems throughout his life: he was born with a congenital heart problem known as idiopathic hypertrophic aortic stenosis, which limited his participation in baseball, the game he loved as a child. As an adult, he had developed cardiomyopathy and atrial fibrillation. He underwent a catheter ablation in 2012 and pacemaker placement, but his AFib was worsening, to the point of being out of control. Debra Lockwood, M.D., a cardiologist at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, recommended he see Dr. Kiser for a convergent hybrid ablation. Doyle was ready and willing to make the trip. His symptoms were worsening and he was short of breath nearly all the time; he had swelling in his legs and was gaining weight. Disrupting his life wasn’t going to be simple; Doyle is a busy food warehouse manager for Walmart who, with his wife Billie, has six children and seven grandchildren (with one more on the way). The couple flew to Pittsburgh
contributing to his AFib. Dr. Kiser determined that it needed to be clipped to assure that the procedure would be effective. The procedure went perfectly, and Doyle’s heart converted to a normal sinus rhythm. He spent three days in the Cardiovascular Surgical Unit post-op, and was discharged to home in early March. Doyle is filled with gratitude to Drs. Kiser and Liu, and to the nurses who cared for him throughout his experience. “I’ve been seeing doctors all my life and I never met one with the bedside manner of Dr. Kiser. He’s brilliant, but still humble. He prayed with me before my surgery, and I was overwhelmed by that. I had an awesome experience in Pittsburgh. I loved the city and the friendly people of Pittsburgh. I feel wonderful and I’m so glad that I came to St. Clair.” Dr. Kiser is also happy with the results, for both patients. “I’m pleased with how this turned out; the team came together beautifully, in the EP Lab, the OR and the CVSU. These procedures are emblematic of the progressive cardiac procedures that we’ve begun at St. Clair, and I’m proud of how well they all performed.”n
in late February, and Dr. Kiser and Dr. Liu performed the convergent hybrid ablation procedure.
JEFFREY C. LIU, M.D., FHRS Dr. Liu earned a B.S. in general science while studying in the accelerated six-year B.S./M.D. program at The Pennsylvania State University, State College, before earning his medical degree at Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia. He completed a residency in internal medicine at the University of Maryland Medical Center, served as Chief Resident at the Baltimore VA Medical Center, and completed fellowships in cardiovascular medicine and clinical cardiac electrophysiology at UPMC. Dr. Liu is board-certified in cardiology, cardiac electrophysiology and internal medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He practices with St. Clair Medical Services. To contact Dr. Liu, please call 412.942.7900.
ANDY C. KISER, M.D., FACS, FACC, FCCP Dr. Kiser earned a B.S. in biology with honors and distinction, and a medical degree with honors from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He subsequently completed a residency in general surgery there, as well as fellowships in cardiac and thoracic surgery. From 2011 to 2016, he served as the Chief of the Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he was also the Byah ThomasonSanford Doxey Distinguished Professor of Surgery. Dr. Kiser served as the J. Mark Williams Distinguished Professor in Cardiac Surgery, Chief of Cardiac Surgery, and the Director of Cardiovascular Surgical Services at East Carolina Heart Institute, which is affiliated with East Carolina University, in Greenville, North Carolina. In May, 2018, Dr. Kiser earned an MBA degree from the Kenan-Flagler Business School, also part of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Dr. Kiser practices with St. Clair Medical Services. To contact Dr. Kiser, please call 412.942.5728. 16 I HouseCall I Volume XI Issue 1
Andy C. Kiser, M.D., FACS, FACC, FCCP
PRICE TRANSPARENCY
WE HAVE YOU COVERED
ALL
St. Clair Hospital participates with
MAJOR INSURERS
At St. Clair Hospital, patients enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing the high quality healthcare services they are receiving are in-network with every major insurer in almost every product. St. Clair is also frequently the lowest cost provider, so patients who have deductibles and co-pays can save money while accessing the region’s most awarded healthcare services. For a complete listing of participating insurers and products, or to use St. Clair’s nationally recognized cost transparency tool, Patient Estimates, please visit www.sclair.org. n The Pitts burgh Business Times recently publishe da article on the impo rtance of price transpare ncy and cost estim ates for patients.
By Pa u l
J. Gough
, Report er, Health
Care an
Reprinte
d by perm ission of the Pitts bu
rgh Busi ne
ss Times.
Volume XI Issue 1 I HouseCall I 17
d Energy
DONOR PROFILE
___ WHY I ___
GIVE Michael and Dolores Kara
Dolores Kara: Making a Difference
“ W
I could spend the day extolling the virtues
of St. Clair Hospital. It’s a treasure for this community.
”
DOLORES KARA, DONOR
In honor of Dolores Kara making a significant gift to the Hospital’s new Outpatient Center on its Mt. Lebanon campus, the café there will be known as Café Kara when the Center opens in late 2020.
18 I HouseCall I Volume XI Issue 1
hen St. Clair Hospital opened its 40,000 square foot Outpatient Center in the heart of Peters Township in 2013 it signified an exciting new era in the Hospital’s growth. The Outpatient Center, along with its sister location in Bethel Park, makes it possible for patients to see their physicians and have diagnostic testing, imaging and laboratory tests, done in one day, under one roof. For those who are dealing with everyday medical issues, cancer, complex medical conditions, disability or chronic illness, the facility is a godsend. Dolores Kara understands how important that is. She and her late husband Michael Kara both knew personally that convenient access to medical care makes a difference and they expressed their appreciation to St. Clair by making one of the largest philanthropic donations in the Hospital’s history in support of the new facility. In honor of their generous gift, the facility carries their name: The Michael and Dolores Kara Building.
The Karas were inspired to donate to the Outpatient Center in Peters when they visited prior to its opening. “We went to an open house and we were so impressed that we decided that we should contribute to it,” Dolores recalls. “At first, it felt surreal walking into a building with our names on it. I go there for all my medical tests, so I’m there often. You get to know people when you’re a regular.” Michael passed away in 2017, and Dolores has chosen to continue the legacy that she and Michael started, by making a significant gift to St. Clair Hospital Foundation toward the construction of the Hospital’s new Outpatient Center on its Mt. Lebanon campus. When the Center opens in late 2020, the café there will be known as Café Kara. It’s been nearly 20 years since Dolores began her relationship with St. Clair Hospital. “The care is wonderful,” she says. “My late husband Michael felt the same way, and we became enthusiastic supporters of St. Clair. We used to spend half of the year in Florida, but we chose to have all of our medical care in Pittsburgh, at St. Clair Hospital. When Michael became ill with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, two years ago, he was treated at St. Clair.” Guided by her devotion to her husband’s memory and a desire to honor his values, Dolores will continue to support St. Clair through charitable donations. She says it’s essential for the community to support the Hospital’s people, services and facilities. “The changes at St. Clair are wonderful, and it’s great to be able to play a part in the expansion and growth. I could spend the day extolling the virtues of St. Clair Hospital. It’s a treasure for this community.” n To support the Hospital’s Groundbreaking Growth campaign, please donate online at stclair.org/giving or call St. Clair Hospital Foundation at 412.942.2465.
ETC.
DUNLAP FAMILY OUTPATIENT CENTER OPENING LATE 2020
CONSTRUCTION UPDATE With the recent opening of the new N. Wren Drive, construction of St. Clair Hospital’s new Dunlap Family Outpatient Center is underway in earnest adjacent to the Hospital. The 280,000-square-foot, six-story building is slated to open in late 2020. Dunlap Family Outpatient Center will offer comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic outpatient services, including laboratory; medical imaging; cardio-diagnostics; physical and occupational therapy; an infusion center; outpatient surgery with 10 operating rooms, two procedure rooms, and 51 pre- and post-surgical rooms; a spacious endoscopy (GI) suite with six exam rooms; other multidisciplinary clinical programs; conference space; multiple seating options; and a commercial pharmacy. Funding for St. Clair’s major expansion is being supported by government grants, tax-exempt bonds, Hospital funds, and philanthrophy. St. Clair continues to make targeted funding requests, asking the broader community to support the new outpatient center. Individuals interested in donating to the Groundbreaking Growth campaign may do so online at stclair.org/giving or by calling 412.942.2465.
st clair hospital presents
CMS AWARDS 5-STAR RATING TO ST. CLAIR HOSPITAL FOR HIGH QUALITY CARE The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has awarded
St. Clair Hospital a 5-star quality rating, the highest rating available. It was the only 5-star rating awarded in western Pennsylvania, and
places St. Clair in the top 6.4 percent of hospitals in the United States.
For tickets or sponsorship opportunities for this year’s Summer Swing event, please contact the St. Clair Hospital Foundation at 412.942.2465.
“This accomplishment is a direct reflection of the compassion, dedication, and expertise of our nursing staff, physicians, and entire care team,” says Kaitlin Shotsberger, MSN, RN, CNL, Executive Director, Quality & Care Management, St. Clair Hospital. “St. Clair’s commitment is to put every patient first, every single time.” “This achievement adds to St. Clair’s growing list of awards for patient safety, quality, satisfaction and value,” says John T. Sullivan, M.D. MBA, Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer, St. Clair Hospital. “It’s a testament to the overall excellence of the organization.”
Volume XI Issue 1 I HouseCall I 19
1000 Bower Hill Road Pittsburgh, PA 15243 stclair.org
General & Patient Information: 412.942.4000 | Physician Referral Service: 412.942.6560 | Medical Imaging Scheduling: 412.942.8150 Outpatient Center–Village Square: 412.942.7100 | Urgent Care–Village Square: 412.942.8800 | Outpatient Center–Peters Township: 412.942.8400
5-TIME WINNER
Being Stacy’s hospital is our most prestigious award. St. Clair Hospital has once again been recognized as one of the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals. This marks the fifth time St. Clair has achieved this prestigious honor, affirming the Hospital’s commitment to exceptional patient safety, clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction, and value. St. Clair is proud of the excellent care we provide our patients. We salute our outstanding physicians, employees, and volunteers for this notable achievement. To learn more about our award-winning care, please visit stclair.org.
Stacy | South Fayette 1000 BOWER HILL ROAD
HouseCall
.
M T. L E B A N O N , PA 1 5 2 4 3
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is a publication of St. Clair Hospital. Articles are for informational purposes and are not intended to serve as medical advice. Please consult your personal physician.
412.942.4000
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STCLAIR.ORG
@StClairHospital