http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/ Press Releases from Fletcher Allen Health Care en-us Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_health_care_makes_additional_changes_to_inpat.html
Kim O'Leary
Marketing  and Communications
802-847-2886

Immediate:  October 15, 2009

Fletcher Allen Health Care Makes Additional Changes to Inpatient Pediatric Visiting Policy in Anticipation of H1N1 Flu Season

BURLINGTON VT - Fletcher Allen Health Care has made further changes to its visiting policy in an effort to protect both high-risk patients and its staff during the expected outbreak of H1N1 this fall.  Visiting restrictions are already in place in the Birthing Center, the Mother/Baby Unit, and intensive care units. Additional restrictions have now been applied to protect pediatric inpatients and their families.

The following restrictions now apply to those visiting pediatric inpatients:

For All Visitors to Inpatient Pediatrics:

Use hand hygiene:

Wash hands or use hand sanitizer  upon entering the  floor, AND just before and just after leaving a patient's room

No one under the age of 12 to visit the inpatient Pediatric unit.     
Only immediate family to visit, or guardians/caregivers if applicable.
Only two (2) immediate family members in the patient's room at one time.
Patients will be asked not to visit if they have symptoms of a fever and a cough or cold, or if they suspect they may have the flu.

For Visitation With Inpatient Pediatric Patients Who May Have Flu:

Additional restrictions include:

While in the room, visitors must wear a white mask, gown and gloves. These should be disposed of in the room.  Instructions from the nurse shall be provided BEFORE the visitor enters the room.
Visitors to Pediatric patients with influenza (or being tested for influenza), must minimize contact with all other people in the hospital.  They will be asked to leave the hospital immediately after visiting. This precaution protects other patients and their families.

"These extra visiting precautions are in the best interests of our patients during the flu season," said Dawn LeBaron, vice president, Hospital Services.  "Patient safety and infection control are top priorities at this institution.  We recognize that this flu season will not be like others in recent memory and we have made plans that anticipate different levels of a flu outbreak. The visiting policy changes are part of that plan and they may change as the flu season progresses." 

Fletcher Allen is also mounting a strong campaign to encourage staff to get both the seasonal flu shot and the H1N1 vaccine shot when it becomes available.  The organization will make the vaccines available to staff at no charge.

Updated flu season visitation policies are always available on our website, http://www.fletcherallen.org/

About Fletcher Allen

Fletcher Allen Health Care, together with our partners at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, is Vermont's academic medical center.  Our mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by integrating patient care, education and research in a caring environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center -- providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately 150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care for a rural region.  For more information about Fletcher Allen, visit our Web site at http://www.fletcherallen.org/.

]]> Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_health_care_makes_additional_changes_to_inpat.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_receives_accreditation_from_the_american_coll.html Immediate (October 13, 2009)



Mike Noble 
Marketing and Communications
802-847-2886

Fletcher Allen Receives Accreditation from the American College of Surgeon's Commission on Cancer



BURLINGTON VT - Fletcher Allen has received a full three-year accreditation from the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer.

This is the highest level of accreditation the Commission on Cancer awards, and serves to distinguish organizations that voluntarily commit to provide the best in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Accredited institutions successfully undergo a rigorous 36-point evaluation process and performance review, focusing on quality outcomes, education and performance monitoring. The Commission on Cancer site survey report gave particular praise to Fletcher Allen's cancer-related outcomes work, clinical trials accrual, community outreach initiatives, and cancer registry operations.  Fletcher Allen's cancer activities are closely tied to the Vermont Cancer Center, which links patient care with research and education at the University of Vermont College of Medicine.

According to the Commission on Cancer, there are 1,400 Commission on Cancer-accredited cancer programs in the United States and Puerto Rico, representing 25% of all hospital programs.  These 1,400 programs diagnose and treat 80% of newly-diagnosed cancer patients each year.

The Commission on Cancer is a consortium of professional organizations dedicated to improving survival and quality of life for cancer patients through setting standards, cancer prevention efforts, research, education and the monitoring of comprehensive quality care. For more information, please visit their Web site at www.facs.org/cancer/index.html

About Fletcher Allen

Fletcher Allen Health Care, together with our partners at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, is Vermont's academic medical center.  Our mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by integrating patient care, education and research in a caring environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center -- providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately 150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care for a rural region.  For more information about Fletcher Allen, visit our Web site at http://www.fletcherallen.org/.

]]> Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_receives_accreditation_from_the_american_coll.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_health_care_makes_changes_to_visiting_policy_.html
For Release: 

September 29, 2009

Contact:
Mike Noble
Marketing & Communications
(802) 847-2886 

FLETCHER ALLEN HEALTH CARE MAKES CHANGES TO VISITING POLICY IN ANTICIPATION OF H1N1 FLU SEASON

View recent changes to Pediatric Visiting Hours

BURLINGTON, VT - Fletcher Allen Health Care has made changes to its visiting policy in an effort to protect both high-risk patients and its staff during the expected outbreak of H1N1 this fall.  Changes affect the Birthing Center, the Mother/Baby Unit, and intensive care units. 

The Birthing Center, located on the seventh floor of the McClure Building, and the Mother/Baby Unit, located on the fifth floor of the Shepardson Building have made the following changes:

The number of people accompanying the mother-to-be is limited to two persons.
These persons must remain the same throughout labor, delivery and the stay on the Mother and Baby Unit.  No alternates will be allowed to visit.
A child 12 years of age or older will count as one of the two allowed visitors.
The two visitors must have no signs of illness.
Children under 12 years of age cannot visit.

Additionally, the Intensive Care Units located on the 3rd and 4th floors of the McClure Building have instituted the following visiting policy:

Visitors are limited to include only immediate family members or close friends if the patient has no immediate family.
Visitors with signs of influenza-like illness (cough, cold or fever) will not be permitted to visit.
No visitors under the age of 12.
Visitors will be asked to use hand sanitizers entering the intensive care units and upon entering and leaving the patient’s room.
For patients sick with seasonal or H1N1 influenza visitors will wear a protective gown, gloves and mask while in the room.
Visitors will be asked to minimize contact with others in the hospital to reduce the risk of acquiring or spreading disease.

The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit located on the 7th floor of the McClure Building will make the following change effective October 1:

Only the child’s parents may visit, or the child’s mother and one consistent adult support person. 

These visiting precautions are in the best interests of our patients as the flu season begins.  Patient safety and infection control are top priorities at this institution.  We recognize that this flu season will not be like others in recent memory and we have made plans that anticipate different levels of a flu outbreak. The visiting policy changes are part of that plan and they may change as the flu season progresses.   

Fletcher Allen is also mounting a strong campaign to encourage staff to get both the seasonal flu shot and the H1N1 vaccine shot when it becomes available.  The organization will make the vaccines available to staff at no charge. 

About Fletcher Allen

Fletcher Allen Health Care, together with our partners at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, is Vermont’s academic medical center.  Our mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by integrating patient care, education and research in a caring environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center -- providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately 150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care for a rural region.  For more information about Fletcher Allen, visit our Web site at www.fletcherallen.org.

]]> Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_health_care_makes_changes_to_visiting_policy_.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/glen_wright_to_chair_fletcher_allen_foundation.html
F O R  R E L E A S E: 
September 17, 2009 

C O N T A C T:
Maria McClellan      
Marketing & Communications
(802) 847-2886                 

GLEN WRIGHT TO CHAIR FLETCHER ALLEN FOUNDATION

BURLINGTON, VT - Fletcher Allen Health Care today announced that Glen Wright has been elected Chair of the hospital's Foundation board.

Wright, a native Vermonter and former managing partner of KPMG LLP's Burlington office, succeeds Edwin I. Colodny as chair of Fletcher Allen's fundraising board.  In addition, Brian Boardman has been elected Vice Chair, and Emily Morrow has assumed the position of Secretary.

"Fletcher Allen has touched both my life and that of my family," said Wright, 60, who suffered two heart attacks in his 50's.   "As a result, I have a great devotion to the hospital and view it as one of the most significant and valuable assets in Vermont and upstate New York. I am honored to serve as chair of the Fletcher Allen Foundation, and I look forward to continuing to build on the success of the philanthropic efforts of the medical center."

Wright's commitment to fundraising for Fletcher Allen also comes from his father, Wilbur Wright, now deceased, who used the hospital extensively, and like Glen, was a cardiac patient. 

"We are extremely fortunate to have Glen Wright step forward to lead our Foundation," said Melinda L. Estes, M.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of Fletcher Allen. "Glen has deep roots in the community and longstanding ties to Fletcher Allen.  He understands firsthand the value of our academic medical center and the important role that philanthropy plays in helping us achieve our vision of being a national model of the delivery of high-quality academic health care in a rural region."

Other members of the Fletcher Allen Foundation Board include:  Dr. Nancy Binter, Dr. John Brumsted, David Coates, Phil Daniels, Holly Miller, Marc Monheimer, Dr. David Schneider, Roger Stone and ex officio member Dr. Melinda Estes.

About Fletcher Allen

Fletcher Allen Health Care, together with our partners at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, is Vermont's academic medical center.  Our mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by integrating patient care, education and research in a caring environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center -- providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately 150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care for a rural region.  For more information about Fletcher Allen, visit our Web site at http://www.fletcherallen.org/.         

]]> Thu, 17 Sep 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/glen_wright_to_chair_fletcher_allen_foundation.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_and_eleanor_b_daniels_fund_sponsor_free_educa.html FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:     
September 14, 2009 

CONTACT:                                       
Sherry Daniels
Eleanor B. Daniels Fund
(802) 434-3979
Sdaniels2@cs.com  

FLETCHER ALLEN AND ELEANOR B. DANIELS FUND SPONSOR FREE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM FOR CANCER SURVIVORS AND THEIR SUPPORTERS 

(Burlington, VT) – The Division of Gynecologic Oncology at Fletcher Allen and the Eleanor B. Daniels Fund are pleased to present “Families Surviving Cancer,” a free, educational program for survivors of cancer and their supporters on Saturday, September 19, from 8:30 am to noon at the Burlington Sheraton Conference Center.  The event is sponsored by The Eleanor B. Daniels Fund.

PROGRAM DETAILS

WHAT: Exploring Survivorship: Families Surviving Cancer  
A Free Program for Survivors and their Supporters

WHEN: Saturday, September 19, 2009 from 8:30 am to Noon

WHERE: Sheraton Burlington Conference Center

SCHEDULE:

8:00-8:30 a.m.

Welcome and light refreshments

8:30-9:45
Survivors Dialogue – panel of cancer survivors with Heather Barton, M.A., Moderator

10:00-10:45
Family Link: Updates and Impacts on Cancer Treatment with Dr. Cheung Wong, Fletcher Allen/UVM

10:45-11:30
Healing Support Circle with Heather Barton, M.D.

11:35-11:45
Closing Word Ceremony with Sherry Daniels

The program will begin with a “Cancer Survivors Dialogue” during which a unique panel of cancer survivors and their supporters will candidly discuss their experiences living through cancer diagnosis and treatment, and how they approach their daily lives.  Other presentations include:

Dr. Cheung Wong, Director of Gynecologic Oncology at Fletcher Allen and associate professor at the University of Vermont College of Medicine on “The Family Link:  Updates and Impacts on Cancer Treatment.”
“Healing Support Circle”- an interactive session that will explore issues and insights relating to survivorship lead by Heather Barton, M.A. of the Cancer Patient Support Program. 
Closing Word Ceremony lead by Sherry Daniels, cancer survivor and sister of Eleanor B. Daniels.

Members of the public wishing to attend the event should call 847-3919 to make a reservation. For more information, go to www.ebdfund.org.  

The Eleanor B. Daniels Fund was created in 2004 in honor of Eleanor B. Daniels, a beloved artist, mother, and teacher.  Her courageous efforts in the area of cancer trials have advanced the techniques of cancer treatment today.  The EBD Fund is dedicated to supporting education, research and development efforts for gynecologic malignancies and women’s health issues.  The Division of Gynecologic Oncology at Fletcher Allen provides free educational programs for the public each fall and spring, sponsored by the Eleanor B. Daniels Fund.

 

]]> Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_and_eleanor_b_daniels_fund_sponsor_free_educa.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_releases_year-to-date_and_second_quarter_fina.html

Immediate (July 30, 2009)

Mike Noble
Marketing and Communications
802-847-2886

Fletcher Allen Releases Year-to-Date and Second Quarter Financial Results



BURLINGTON VT - Fletcher Allen reported an operating income of $13.3 million for the first two quarters of the 2009 fiscal year. This includes an operating income of approximately $9.3 million for the second quarter. The second quarter covers the period beginning January 1 and ending March 31.

Second Quarter Results

Operating income for the second quarter was $4.2 million above budget and $4.1 million above the corresponding quarter in FY 2008.  Net operating revenues for the quarter were $209.4 million, $1.5 million below budgeted revenues.  The organization's operating expenses for the quarter were $200.0 million, $5.8 million under budget, resulting in an operating income of approximately $9.3 million and an operating margin of 4.4% for the second quarter.  By comparison, the organization produced an income from operations of $5.2 million in the second quarter of FY 2008.

Year-to-date Results

On a year-to-date basis, the $13.3 million net income from operations was above the budgeted $9.4 million for the period, and produced an operating margin of 3.2%. A year ago, the organization generated a two-quarter operating gain of $4.7 million.  For the first half of the fiscal year, net operating revenues were $410.2, $6.4 million below budget. Operating expenses were $396.9 million, below budget by $10.3 million.

A key financial indicator, earnings before interest, depreciation and amortization (EBIDA) stood at approximately $41.1 million for the first two quarters.  This was above the FY 2009 budget forecast of $37.8 million.  EBIDA provides a good measure of the organization’s actual earnings.

Key volume measures for the two quarters were mixed. Total inpatient discharges were below budget by less than 1%.  Combined Inpatient and Outpatient Days, a measure of the number of patients in the hospital each day, were approximately1% above budget, and physician office visits were less than 1% above budget.  At the end of the second quarter, days cash on hand stood at 96 days using a 12-month rolling average. This indicator is a projected estimate of the number of days an organization could meet operating expenditures provided no additional revenues were received.   

The institution began making its quarterly financials public with the release of the first quarter results for FY 2003 in February 2003. For the audited financial statements as well as unaudited quarterly results for FY 2003 through the second quarter of FY 2009, please click here. 

About Fletcher Allen
Fletcher Allen Health Care, together with our partners at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, is Vermont’s academic medical center.  Our mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by integrating patient care, education and research in a caring environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center -- providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately 150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care for a rural region.

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_releases_year-to-date_and_second_quarter_fina.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_debuts_redesigned_web_site__.html F O R   R E L E A S E: Immediate (July 9, 2009)

C O N T A C T:                       
Kim O’Leary
Marketing and Communications
802-847-2886

Fletcher Allen Debuts Redesigned Web Site  BURLINGTON VT – Fletcher Allen unveiled its redesigned Web site today, www.FletcherAllen.org.  Designed with patient and visitor needs in mind, the site features a fresh look, enhanced content and a new, user-friendly structure that will make it easier for visitors to find the information they are seeking.  The site includes several key enhancements:

Searchable Provider Directory – Visitors can now easily search for a provider who meets their needs with familiar terms like “heart” and “cancer” in addition to “cardiology” and “oncology”.  The directory, which can now be printed by visitors to the site, features a more professional look and includes color photos of most of Fletcher Allen’s 500 Faculty Practice physicians who are jointly employed by Fletcher Allen and the University of Vermont College of Medicine.    

Google Maps – The new site features interactive maps and driving directions for each of our 30 satellite locations, as well as a map and directions for our medical center campus in Burlington. 

Events Calendar – An Events link on the home page includes news about public educational offerings such as our Community Medical School and Health Source classes, and other events of interest to the general public. 

Enhanced Support Groups Directory –Support group information has been reorganized so that visitors can easily find comprehensive information on support services available across the region.    

Video Gallery – FletcherAllen.org features over 50 videos, including educational videos about services, medical conditions and procedures, patient testimonials about the quality of care they received at Fletcher Allen, and videos about the history of this organization. 

Click here to visit our new Web site.About Fletcher Allen

Fletcher Allen Health Care, together with our partners at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, is Vermont’s academic medical center.  Our mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by integrating patient care, education and research in a caring environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center -- providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately 150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties. 

With more than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care for a rural region. 

 ### 
]]> Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_debuts_redesigned_web_site__.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_health_care_teans_with_vermont_hitec_to_train.html For Release:  Immediate (July 8, 2008)

Contact:  Kim O’Leary
Marketing & Communications
Fletcher Allen
802-847-2886

Fletcher Allen Health Care Teams with Vermont HITEC to Train EHR Data Abstractors
Applications for Free Training Program Due July 20th

BURLINGTON, VT - Fletcher Allen and Vermont HITEC announced today that they are recruiting candidates for the partnership’s first training program to prepare participants for a career working with Electronic Health Records (EHRs). The training will lead directly to a one-year term of employment at Fletcher Allen, with the possibility for additional training and continued employment.

Up to 25 program participants will be trained to work directly with Fletcher Allen’s new Electronic Health Record system, called PRISM (Patient Record and Information Systems Management) as EHR data abstractors.  EHR data abstractors convert medical data from physical patient files to an electronic record. 

The training programs are targeted to unemployed and underemployed Vermonters, as well as current Fletcher Allen staff, and are offered free to selected participants. Successful graduates of the program will be offered positions for a term of one year at Fletcher Allen at the completion of the 5-week course.  The pay scale for EHR data abstractors starts at $11.50 per hour.  The positions will also include a comprehensive benefits package.

Individuals will be selected for the training program through an extensive recruitment process. The deadline for applying to the Fletcher Allen EHR Data Abstractor ITAR program is July 20, 2009.  Individuals interested in applying to the program must visit www.vthitec.org to fill out an online application. Questions and inquiries can be directed to Lisa Gorman, ITAR Project Leader, Vermont HITEC, Inc., P.O. Box 1548, Williston, VT 05495, or by email at lisa.gorman@vthitec.org.

For up-to-date program information, visit: www.vthitec.org.

"We deeply value our partnership with Vermont HITEC, which has grown into a long-term commitment to train Vermonters for jobs in the health care industry – not just today, but for many years to come," said Melinda L. Estes, M.D., president and chief executive officer of Fletcher Allen Health Care.

"The emergence of the Electronic Medical Record in Vermont is creating a new branch in the job market," added Gerry Ghazi, President of Vermont HITEC.  "As Fletcher Allen pioneers the adoption of this technology, our goal is to match the growing needs of this field by providing highly-motivated Vermonters with a valuable skill set.”

The EHR data abstractor program is conducted under the auspices of the Fletcher Allen Workforce Development Institute, a partnership between Fletcher Allen and Vermont HITEC.  The Institute is funded with support from Senator Patrick J. Leahy.  The EHR data abstractor program follows on the success of five previous training programs implemented by the partnership between Fletcher Allen and Vermont HITEC over the past four years.  

About the Fletcher Allen/Vermont HITEC Partnership
The Fletcher Allen Workforce Development Institute was created in partnership with Vermont HITEC to help address critical workforce development needs by training unemployed and underemployed Vermonters for jobs that are persistently difficult to fill. The institute is designed to be flexible to match current workforce needs.

Fletcher Allen and Vermont HITEC developed their partnership in 2004 with funding assistance from both the State of Vermont and the U.S. Department of Labor.  The first Vermont HITEC training session was conducted over an eight-month period in an intensive training program for 20 medical transcriptionists.  This work-at-home program was followed by the launching of a more formal health care workforce development training institute developed with the support of a $325,000 federal grant secured by Senator Patrick Leahy.  The federal funding allowed for the implementation of the workforce institute and associated programs. Senator Leahy has since secured another $588,000 to support additional training programs.

Funding for the EHR data abstractor program is offered in part with support from the Vermont Department of Economic Development and the Vermont Department of Labor. To date, a total of 68 Vermonters have been trained and offered positions at Fletcher Allen Health Care as a result of these programs.

About Vermont HITEC
Vermont HITEC is a 501C (3) non-profit organization with a mission to educate, train and employ Vermonters in a variety of fields. Vermont HITEC has employed over 300 Vermonters over the past seven years in medical transcription, information technology and manufacturing partnering with over 20 Vermont businesses including Fletcher Allen Health Care, Husky Injection Molding Systems, Hazelett Strip Casting Corporation, IDX Systems (GE Healthcare) and Dealer.com.

About Fletcher Allen
Fletcher Allen Health Care, together with our partners at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, is Vermont’s academic medical center. Our mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by integrating patient care, education and research in a caring environment. Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center – providing advanced are to approximately one million people in Vermont and northern New York – and as a community hospital for approximately 150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties. With more than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care for a rural region. For more information about Fletcher Allen, visit our Web site at www.fletcherallen.org.    

]]> Wed, 08 Jul 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_health_care_teans_with_vermont_hitec_to_train.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_recognized_for_providing_high_quality_care_to.html F O R  R E L E A S E:  Immediate (July 7, 2009)

C O N T A C T:                                 
Michael Carrese
Marketing and Communications
802-847-2886

FLETCHER ALLEN RECOGNIZED FOR PROVIDING HIGH QUALITY CARE TO AREA MILITARY PERSONNEL AND THEIR FAMILIES
Demand for Services Will Increase as National Guard Units Are Deployed

(Burlington, VT) Fletcher Allen Health Care has been recognized by Health Net Federal Services for providing high quality health care to members of the Armed Services and their families living in Vermont and northern New York. 

Health Net Federal Services (HNFS) is the managed care support contractor for the TRICARE North Region, a health care program for active duty and retired service members, members of the National Guard and Reserve, family members of each of these populations, survivors and other eligible beneficiaries. It serves approximately 20,000 people in Vermont and northern New York.

Denise Luck, Plattsburgh TRICARE Service Center Manager at HNFS recently presented a plaque thanking Fletcher Allen for its support of military personnel to Dr. Mitchell Norotsky, Associate Vice President for Faculty Practice Operations.

“We really appreciate Fletcher Allen’s continued efforts to provide the highest quality care for our military heroes and their families," said Denise Luck.  “Its participation as a TRICARE network provider will become even more critical during the upcoming deployment of National Guard units to Afghanistan, which will add about 3,000 people to our program,” she added.

“I’m proud to accept this recognition on behalf of all the Fletcher Allen employees who are dedicated to providing excellent patient care for these important members of our community and their families,” said Dr. Norotsky.

Caption for attached photo:Denise Luck, Plattsburgh TRICARE Service Center Manager at Health Net Federal Services recently presented a plaque to Dr. Mitchell Norotsky, Associate Vice President for Faculty Practice Operations, thanking Fletcher Allen for its continued commitment to providing excellent health care to military personnel and their families.   About Fletcher AllenFletcher Allen Health Care, together with our partners at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, is Vermont’s academic medical center.  Our mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by integrating patient care, education and research in a caring environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center -- providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately 150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care for a rural region.  For more information about Fletcher Allen, visit our Web site at www.fletcherallen.org.  ###
]]> Tue, 07 Jul 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_recognized_for_providing_high_quality_care_to.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_can_help_you_quit_smoking.html F O R   R E L E A S E:   Immediate (June 22, 2009)

C O N T A C T:  
Kim O’Leary
Marketing and Communications
802-847-2886

Fletcher Allen Can Help You Quit Smoking

BURLINGTON VT – Fletcher Allen’s Tobacco Cessation Program can provide you the tools you need to quit smoking, and to stay smoke-free for life. 

Quitting smoking supports a healthy lifestyle and will save you money.  With recent increases in Vermont’s tobacco taxes, tobacco products are now more expensive than ever. 

Fletcher Allen’s Tobacco Cessation Program provides free personal coaching and classes, as well as quit-smoking aids such as patches, gums, and lozenges. 

To learn more, call the program at 802 847-6541, or email: wellness@vtmednet.org. 

 
]]> Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_can_help_you_quit_smoking.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_launches_electronic_health_record_system_to_i.html Immediate (June 11, 2009)C O N T A C T:  
Michael Carrese
Marketing and Communications
802-847-2886

BURLINGTON, VT – Fletcher Allen successfully completed the first phase of its electronic health record (EHR) project this week,  joining only 1.5% of health care facilities nationwide to implement such a comprehensive computer system for patient care. * The system is now “live” in Fletcher Allen’s inpatient areas, pharmacy, Emergency Department, and some hospital outpatient areas on the Medical Center Campus in Burlington, as well as the Walk-In Care Center and inpatient rehabilitation service at the Fanny Allen Campus in Colchester.Fletcher Allen providers and staff are now using the system to record all vital patient medical information and to administer medications.  PRISM (Patient Record and Information Systems Management) is essentially a computer system that replaces paper medical records, charts and other items with a single electronic file for each patient. (please see attached Fact Sheet for details)  There are several key reasons health care experts believe EHRs will improve the quality, safety and efficiency of patient care:

All medical information for each patient is in one place and all providers can see it at the same time from different clinical locations, so it’s easier to coordinate care.
The system alerts providers about drug allergies or conflicts with patient medications making them instantly aware of potential problems.
Medical staff will spend less time doing paperwork and tracking down charts, x-rays, MRIs and other information that is essential for providing timely care.   

  “I’ve been involved in many aspects of bringing EHR’s online at four other health care facilities across the country and I’m pleased and impressed with how smoothly the process has been at Fletcher Allen,” said Sandi Dalton, Senior Vice President for Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer.  “There have been some minor delays in providing care as technical issues were addressed, but patients have not dealt with major disruptions in their care, and our medical staff and employees are handling the transition well despite the stress of learning a new way of doing things,” she said. PRISM has extensive security features built-in to make sure patient privacy is maintained.  The only staff authorized to see medical information are providers who need to see it to do their jobs.  Other hospital employees – like those in registration or billing – cannot see medical information.  In addition, PRISM records cannot be e-mailed or put on the internet, and the system is constantly monitored to make sure no one is gaining unauthorized access.“The new PRISM system is a major step forward in patient care,” said John Brumsted, M.D., Chief Quality Officer. “The improvements in safety, efficiency and coordination of care will enhance quality and the overall patient experience.  This is the future of health care, and I’m proud Fletcher Allen is bringing this leading edge technology to our community,” he added.  The next phase of the project will expand PRISM to the oncology department and will introduce a secure, web-based portal called “My Chart,” which will allow patients to view parts of their health record, schedule appointments, request medication renewals and research medical conditions.  The second phase also involves developing a data warehouse for reporting and analysis, to be completed by December 2009. The final stage of implementation will focus on the outpatient (also known as ambulatory) service areas, and patient scheduling.  This will be completed by the end of 2010.

* According to a nationwide hospital survey published in the March 2009 edition of the New England Journal of Medicine, only 10.9% of U.S. hospitals have implemented a basic Electronic Health Record, and only 1.5% have implemented a comprehensive Electronic Health Record like PRISM. 

About Fletcher AllenFletcher Allen Health Care, together with our partners at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, is Vermont’s academic medical center.  Our mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by integrating patient care, education and research in a caring environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center -- providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately 150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care for a rural region.  For more information about Fletcher Allen, visit our Web site at www.fletcherallen.org. ### PRISM FACT SHEETFletcher Allen’s Electronic Health Record System The development of an electronic health record is a critical, clinical process that will help Fletcher Allen improve quality and enhance safety while protecting the security and confidentiality of our patients' health information.  According to a nationwide hospital survey published in the March 2009 edition of the New England Journal of Medicine, only 10.9% of U.S. hospitals have implemented a basic Electronic Health Record, and only 1.5% have implemented a comprehensive Electronic Health Record like PRISM.  What is an Electronic Health Record (EHR) system?All of your health information, including medical charts, treatment notes and prescription orders, are converted from paper files to a single electronic record housed on a computer-based software application. Your EHR can be retrieved by all providers on your care team –whether at Fletcher Allen or practicing in the community – to facilitate coordination of care.   What is PRISM (Patient Record and Information Systems Management)?In 2008, Fletcher Allen received state approval to begin a $57 million, three-year phased implementation of an electronic health record system, called PRISM, which will connect virtually every key function in the organization.  When completed, PRISM will allow patients' clinical information to be electronically stored, updated and accessed instantaneously, largely replacing the paper medical record in use today.  The PRISM project will serve 750 physicians credentialed at Fletcher Allen, and its more than 30 facilities in Vermont.  PRISM will be compatible with other health records systems in the state, making it a critical element in the statewide, integrated, electronic health infrastructure being coordinated through Vermont Information Technology Leaders (VITL). What are the benefits of PRISM to patients, and how will it affect their care experience?

Enhanced Quality and Safety Measures – PRISM includes built-in, automatic checks in the electronic system to safeguard against undesirable medication and allergy interactions and incorrect dosage amounts, improving patient safety and helping us to provide you with the best care possible.

Confidential and Secure – Patient privacy will be guarded through built-in protections within the electronic health record to prevent security breaches.  The only staff authorized to see medical information are providers who need to see it to do their jobs.  Other hospital employees – like those in registration or billing – cannot see medical information.  In addition, PRISM records cannot be e-mailed or put on the internet, and the system is constantly monitored to make sure no one is gaining unauthorized access.
One Patient, One Record –All members of your care team can access your electronic record at the same time from separate clinical locations, creating a faster and more seamless care experience for you.

Convenient Access to Your Health Information – PRISM will eventually include a customizable web-based portal where you can quickly and easily view your health record, schedule appointments, view lab results, request medication renewals, and view your children's medical records.  This feature is called MyChart, and will be available in late 2009. 

Improved Communication Between Providers – PRISM enables the medical providers on your care team, including referring providers, to communicate quickly and efficiently about your care, through shared access to your electronic health record.

Shorter Medication Processing Time – Using an electronic health record ensures a shorter processing time between when a medication is ordered and when you, as a patient, will receive it.  Prescription orders are sent electronically to your pharmacy, eliminating the step of patients having to drop them off. 

 
]]> Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_launches_electronic_health_record_system_to_i.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_releases_first_quarter_financial_results_for_.html Immediate (June 8, 2009)

Mike Noble
Marketing and Communications
802-847-2886 Fletcher Allen Releases First Quarter Financial Results
For Fiscal Year 2009 and Results for FY 2008

BURLINGTON VT - Fletcher Allen reported a net operating income of $4
million for the first quarter of the 2009 Fiscal year.  The first quarter covers the period beginning October 1st and ending December 31, 2008.  The organization also finished its 2008 fiscal year approximately $0.1 million above budget. The fiscal year runs from October 1 through September 30.

First Quarter Results
The net operating income for the first quarter was approximately $0.3 below the budgeted amount of $4.3 million, and $4.5 million above the first quarter of FY 2008. Total operating revenues for the first quarter were $200.9 million, approximately $4.8 million below budget.  The organization's operating expenses for the quarter were $196.8 million, $4.6 million below budget, resulting in the net operating gain of $4.0 million and an operating margin of 2.0% for the first quarter.  By comparison, the organization had an operating margin of - 0.26% in the first quarter of FY 2008.

Operating earnings before interest, depreciation and amortization (EBIDA) for the period totaled $17.8 million compared to the $18.5 budgeted figure and $12.7 million for the first quarter of FY 2008.

Days cash on hand was measured at 100 days for the quarter compared to 106 days last year.  This indicator is a projected estimate of the number of days an organization could meet operating expenditures provided no additional revenues were received.

Key volume measures were mixed for the first quarter. Total inpatient discharges were above budget by 45 (0.8%) as was combined inpatient and outpatient days, a measure of the number of patients in the hospital each day, at 19.1% above budget. However, physician office visits were 0.6% below budget.

FY 2008 Results
Fletcher Allen reported a net operating income of $21.1 million for the 2008 fiscal year. This included an operating income of approximately $7.4 million for the fourth quarter beginning July 1 and ending September 30.  The yearly operating income figure was approximately $0.1 million above budget.


Results on the Web Site
The institution began making its quarterly financials public with the release of the first quarter results for FY 2003 in February 2003.  The audited financial statements as well as the quarterly results for FY 2003 through the first quarter of FY 2009 will be available on the Fletcher Allen Web site. Please click here to see FY 2009 First Quarter Financial Results and FY 2008 Year-End Financial Results.

About Fletcher Allen
Fletcher Allen Health Care, together with our partners at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, is Vermont's academic medical center.  Our mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by integrating patient care, education and research in a caring environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center -- providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately 150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care for a rural region.

]]> Mon, 08 Jun 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_releases_first_quarter_financial_results_for_.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_wins_national_award_for_green_practices.html
 

F O R   R E L E A S E:   Immediate (May 26, 2009)C O N T A C T:                      
Michael Carrese
Marketing and Communications
802-847-2886 or 760-8832

FLETCHER ALLEN WINS NATIONAL AWARD FOR GREEN PRACTICES

BURLINGTON, VT – Fletcher Allen Health Care is one of two organizations in the nation receiving the highest award for environmental excellence this year from Practice Greenhealth, the country’s leading association devoted to environmentally responsible health care.  Fletcher Allen joins Metro Health of Wyoming, Michigan in being selected to Practice Greenhealth’s “Environmental Leadership Circle.”

The association’s awards are given to institutions that have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to reducing the environmental footprint of their operations.

"I’m pleased to accept this award on behalf of all the Fletcher Allen employees who have worked hard to make our operations greener,” said Dr. Melinda Estes, President and CEO of Fletcher Allen Health Care.  “I’m proud we are being cited as a national role model for environmental practices, and I look forward to working with our staff to reduce our carbon footprint even further,” she added. 

Practice Greenhealth noted that in the past year, Fletcher Allen has reduced energy consumption by 8%, introduced recycling to patient rooms, and expanded use of locally grown food and green construction materials. 

"All of our members are committed to improving health care's environmental performance, but Fletcher Allen belongs to a select group of facilities setting the highest standards," said Practice Greenhealth Executive Director Bob Jarboe.

Awards are presented in seven categories to more than 60 facilities.  Practice Greenhealth will sponsor the planting of 100 trees in Haiti for each award presented.

About Practice Greenhealth
Practice Greenhealth is the nation's leading membership and networking organization for institutions in the healthcare community that have made a commitment to sustainable, eco-friendly practices. Members include hospitals, healthcare systems, businesses and other stakeholders engaged in the greening of healthcare to improve the health of patients, staff and the environment. For more information on Practice Greenhealth, visit www.practicegreenhealth.orgAbout Fletcher AllenFletcher Allen Health Care, together with our partners at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, is Vermont’s academic medical center.  Our mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by integrating patient care, education and research in a caring environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center -- providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately 150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care for a rural region.  For more information about Fletcher Allen, visit our Web site at www.fletcherallen.org. ###  
]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_wins_national_award_for_green_practices.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_opens_new_sustainable_harvest_cafe_announces_.html F O R   R E L E A S E: Immediate (May 11, 2009)

C O N T A C T: 
Kim O’Leary
Marketing and Communications
802-847-2886

Fletcher Allen Opens New Sustainable “Harvest Café,” Announces Congressional Funding for Nutrition Center

BURLINGTON VT – Fletcher Allen today hosted a ribbon-cutting and open house for the new Harvest Café on the organization’s medical center campus in Burlington.  The Café aims to be the most sustainable health care food service in the country, with the goal of producing little to no waste, and recycling or composting everything.   

Congressman Peter Welch was on hand for the celebration to announce a federal grant of $143,000, which he and Senator Patrick Leahy secured for the development of the “Center for Nutrition and Healthy Food Systems” at Fletcher Allen, which will act as an educational entity between health care and the New England food system, fostering partnerships with local farmers and educating other health care institutions in Vermont regarding how to build a sustainable food service.

“With the launch of the Harvest Café, Fletcher Allen is taking a lead not only in Vermont but throughout the country in integrating fresh, regional food with patient care. This initiative will promote healthy eating choices, support Vermont farms and create a national model for other health care centers to follow,” Congressman Welch said. “I was pleased that Senator Leahy and I could secure federal funding for this valuable project.

”Senator Leahy, who was unable to attend the event, echoed Congressman Welch’s sentiments.  “Once again, Vermont is taking the lead on environmental, agricultural and health issues.  From its use of sustainable building materials, locally grown organic food, and even Vermont’s cold winter air in its refrigeration system, Fletcher Allen Health Care’s Harvest Café is a model that other institutions will follow for decades to come.  I was proud to work with Congressman Welch to obtain funding for this innovative and exciting project.” 

“We are very pleased that our congressional partners have secured this funding to support our Center, which aims to be a national model for healthy and sustainable food systems,” said Melinda Estes, M.D., President and CEO of Fletcher Allen.  “The goals of the Center are in keeping with Fletcher Allen’s ongoing commitment to building a healthy community.”    

About the Harvest Café
The open house event also featured samples from the new Harvest Café menu, which will incorporate fresh, organic and local fare, such as local squash and soy milk, locally-raised ground beef, chicken and turkey raised without non-therapeutic antibiotics and arsenical compounds, lots of vegetarian choices, and organic fair trade coffee.  The event included tours of the renovated facility, which now boasts a full fruit bar and salad bar, flatbread and panini stations.   

Construction of the Harvest Café was in keeping with the sustainability philosophy.  The organization donated two truck loads of equipment and material to the Lucas James Williams Memorial Youth Fund in Bakersfield, Vermont, which provides summer lunch and after-school food programs to Vermont youth.  Fletcher Allen also reduced construction waste by reusing ceiling tiles in other parts of the hospital, and choosing sustainable building materials – such as Marmoleum (linseed) flooring in the dining area - when possible. 

The Harvest Café is also reducing its energy consumption by choosing equipment that has higher energy ratings, and building a "free cooling" walk-in refrigerator that pulls in cold air from the outdoors during the colder months.  This “Freeaire” system is the first of its kind in any Vermont hospital.

About Fletcher Allen’s Nutrition Services Program
Only the third hospital in the country to sign on to the Healthy Food in Health Care Pledge, Fletcher Allen is purchasing local foods, offering organic or fair-trade products, increasing our offering of fruit, vegetables and other nutritionally dense foods, eliminating deep-fried foods from our menus and reducing antibiotics in our food supply.  In addition, we have developed strong relationships with the local farming community, including production planning with several farms, a garden onsite, and bee-keeping in the spring of 2009.  We are also a proud member of the Vermont Fresh Network. 

About Fletcher Allen
Fletcher Allen Health Care, together with our partners at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, is Vermont’s academic medical center.  Our mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by integrating patient care, education and research in a caring environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center -- providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately 150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care for a rural region.  For more information about Fletcher Allen, visit our Web site at www.fletcherallen.org.  

### 
]]> Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_opens_new_sustainable_harvest_cafe_announces_.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_among_top_100_integrated_health_care_networks.html F O R  R E L E A S E:  Immediate (April 16, 2009)

C O N T A C T:   
Mike Noble
Marketing and Communications
802-847-2886
     
Fletcher Allen Among Top 100 Integrated Health Care Networks in the U.S.
 
BURLINGTON VT -- Fletcher Allen Health Care has been ranked among the top 100 Integrated Healthcare Networks in the United States in a survey conducted by SDI, a Pennsylvania-based health care data research firm.  Fletcher Allen, ranked 74th, was one of only five hospital systems in New England to make the list.

The tenth annual survey conducted by SDI, and published in a recent edition of Modern Healthcare, ranks the top 100 networks among the country's approximately 580 regional, non-specialty health care systems.  The firm's survey measures the degree of integration in operations, quality of care, scope of services and efficiency.

An integrated health care network is an organization that has joined together several health care facilities -- either through ownership or formal agreements-- in an attempt to improve quality and cost.
The other four hospital systems in New England were:

MaineHealth, Portland, ME (55)
Lahey Clinic, Burlington, MA (65)
Lifespan, Providence, RI (94)
Yale New Haven Health System, New Haven, CT (100)
     
 
Complete survey results can be found on the organization’s Web site: http://www.sdihealth.com

Fletcher Allen Health Care
Fletcher Allen Health Care, together with our partners at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, is Vermont’s only academic medical center.  Our mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by integrating patient care, education and research in a caring environment.

Fletcher Allen also serves as a regional referral center -- providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately 150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties. 

With more than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care for a rural region.

For more information about Fletcher Allen, visit our Web site at www.fletcherallen.org.

 

]]> Thu, 16 Apr 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_among_top_100_integrated_health_care_networks.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_and_essex_junction_parks_and_recreation_depar.html F O R   R E L E A S E:  Immediate (Wednesday, March 25, 2009)

C O N T A C T:   
Kim O’Leary
Marketing and Communications
802-847-2886
     
Fletcher Allen and Essex Junction Parks and Recreation Department Team Up to Host: Keeping Your Head in the Game: Concussions in Sports

BURLINGTON – Each year, Essex residents of all ages participate in a wide variety of school and community sports programs with the understanding that injury is an occasional downside of these activities.  The incidence and impact of sports-related concussions has become a newsworthy issue.  More than 300,000 people suffer a concussion playing sports each year, and more than half of them are girls.  Concussion is the leading cause of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in 15-24 year olds.   
 
Understanding concussion – for athletes, coaches, and parents – is an important part of staying in the game.  Making an informed decision about when to return to play is not easy when the pressure to get back in the game is great.  The lasting cognitive problems that may persist when concussion management is poor, however, can be serious.

This is why Fletcher Allen and the Essex Junction Parks and Recreation Department have teamed up to invite coaches, athletes, and parents to a free discussion about concussion in sports featuring Dr. James Slauterbeck, an orthopaedic surgeon at Fletcher Allen.  Dr. Slauterbeck, who specializes in sports medicine, will explain concussions and how to recognize and manage them.  He will also address making the tough decisions about returning to play or work following a concussion. 

Keeping Your Head in the Game: Concussions in Sports

Who:   Dr. James Slauterbeck, orthopaedic surgeon at Fletcher Allen, and Associate Professor of Orthopaedic Rehabilitation at the University of Vermont

When:   Tuesday, April 7, at 7:00 p.m.

Where: 
Essex Junction Parks and Recreation Department
Multipurpose Room
75 Maple Street
Essex Junction, VT 05452

Registration is not required.   For more information, contact Fletcher Allen’s Community Health Improvement at 847-2278.

About Fletcher Allen
Fletcher Allen Health Care, together with our partners at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, is Vermont’s academic medical center.  Our mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by integrating patient care, education and research in a caring environment. 

Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center -- providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately 150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care for a rural region.  For more information about Fletcher Allen, visit our Web site at www.fletcherallen.org.

 

]]> Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_and_essex_junction_parks_and_recreation_depar.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/genetic_test_to_predict_risk_of_progression_of_idiopathic_sc.html F O R  R E L E A S E:  Immediate (March 6, 2009)

C O N T A C T:   
Mike Noble
Marketing and Communications
802-847-2886
     
Genetic Test to Predict Risk of Progression of Idiopathic Scoliosis in Girls 9-13 Years of Age Offered at Fletcher Allen

BURLINGTON, VT – Effective mid-December, the Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation Department at Fletcher Allen Health Care became one of 23 centers nationwide field-testing a genetic test that has been developed to predict the degree to which idiopathic scoliosis will progress in girls aged 9-13 years who have been diagnosed with the disease. This painless spit test allows early intervention for those at risk of spinal curve progression and eliminates the need for repeated x-rays for girls identified as unlikely to develop a severe spinal curve.

John T. Braun, M.D., orthopaedic surgeon at Fletcher Allen’s Orthopaedic Specialty Center and associate professor at the UVM College of Medicine, is the principal developer of the genetic test and oversees the field test at Fletcher Allen. He is also a co-founder of the company, Axial Biotech, which currently offers the test free of charge.

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis is the most common spinal deformity in children, affecting 13-26 million adolescents worldwide. Girls are five times more likely than boys to develop this condition.  Statistics show that 10 of 100 children diagnosed with scoliosis will progress to wearing a brace and that 1 in 100 of those children will progress to needing major corrective surgery.
      
The genetic test determines which girls aged 9-13, who have been diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis, are likely to progress to a severe spinal curve which would eventually require surgery.  The test has been fully developed and the testing laboratory at Axial Biotech has been approved by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments Program, overseen by the Division of Laboratory Services within the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

The genetic test requires the patient to submit a saliva sample, which is analyzed and the results returned to the physician who submitted the sample. The patient makes two office visits, one to provide the sample and another visit to review the results with the physician.

The field test, expected to last 6 months, will help the developers of the genetic test to assess the systems and processes that have been developed for collecting, delivering and processing saliva samples, and then reporting results to providers to share with patients and families. The genetic test will be administered at no cost during this field test time period.

About Fletcher Allen
Fletcher Allen Health Care, together with our partners at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, is Vermont’s academic medical center.  Our mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by integrating patient care, education and research in a caring environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center -- providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately 150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care for a rural region

 

]]> Fri, 06 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/genetic_test_to_predict_risk_of_progression_of_idiopathic_sc.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_offers_free_wireless_network_access_to_guests.html F O R   R E L E A S E:  Immediate (March 2, 2009)

C O N T A C T:   
Kim O’Leary
Marketing and Communications
802-847-2886
     
Fletcher Allen Offers Free Wireless Network Access to Guests

 BURLINGTON VT – Fletcher Allen is pleased to announce that free wireless access to the internet is now available at most of the organization’s clinical locations.  This system includes a Guest Wireless Network for patients and visitors. 

“Providing wireless internet access at Fletcher Allen is in keeping with our commitment to provide high quality, compassionate care in service to the community,” said Frank Harris, vice president of Information Services.  “Now our patients and their family members can enjoy free, convenient access to the internet via their laptops, cell phones, and personal digital assistants, whenever they visit a Fletcher Allen facility.”

The wireless technology being installed at Fletcher Allen will be able to access the network at nearly all inpatient and outpatient locations, including the medical center campus and University Health Center campus in Burlington, the Fanny Allen campus in Colchester, and all of Fletcher Allen’s primary care and family medicine sites.  Users of the network must supply their own computing device with wireless access, and will be asked to follow a simple log-on process when they access the network at Fletcher Allen.

Fletcher Allen’s wireless network initiative was made possible at no extra cost as part of the hospital’s PRISM – Patient Record and Information Systems Management – electronic health record project, which requires wireless technology to operate mobile inpatient workstations using a secure Employee Wireless Network. 

About Fletcher Allen
Fletcher Allen Health Care, together with our partners at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, is Vermont’s academic medical center.  Our mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by integrating patient care, education and research in a caring environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center -- providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately 150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care for a rural region.  For more information about Fletcher Allen, visit our Web site at www.fletcherallen.org.

 

 

]]> Mon, 02 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_offers_free_wireless_network_access_to_guests.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_local_walmart_recognize_2009_childrens_miracl.html F O R   R E L E A S E:  Immediate (February 18, 2009)

C O N T A C T:   Kim O’Leary
      Marketing and Communications
      802-847-2886
     
MEDIA ADVISORY:
Fletcher Allen, Local Walmart Recognize 2009 Children’s Miracle Network Champion
 
What:  2009 Children’s Miracle Network “Meet the Champions” Event
Who:  Fourteen year old Courtney Billings of Colchester, and her family
When:  Saturday, February 21, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where:  Walmart, 863 Harvest Lane, Williston

BURLINGTON VT – Fourteen year old Courtney Billings of Colchester, diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at the age of 9 months, will be recognized as Vermont’s 2009 Children’s Miracle Network Champion at the Walmart store in Williston on Saturday, February 21.

Courtney, a patient at Vermont Children’s Hospital at Fletcher Allen, will serve as an ambassador for patients of the hospital at events throughout Vermont, northern New York, and New Hampshire this year as part of the Champions Across America program, sponsored by Walmart and Sam’s Club. 

In March, she will travel with her family to Disney World in Orlando, Florida for a Champion Celebration, where she will join with 52 of her peers nationwide, before traveling with the group to Washington, D.C.  

Other celebratory activities occurring at Walmart on Saturday include Cub Scouts offering “valet shopping” experiences, Ehler’s RV Coach for Kids, and entertainment provided by 98.9 WOKO, all part of a fundraising effort called “Big Change Roundup” to benefit the Vermont Children’s Hospital.  Vermont Children’s is the only Children’s Miracle Network hospital beneficiary in Vermont.  

]]> Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_local_walmart_recognize_2009_childrens_miracl.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_health_care_stroke_center_earns_joint_commiss.html
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   January 29, 2009

CONTACT:      
Kim O’Leary
Marketing & Communications
802-847-2886

Fletcher Allen Health Care Stroke Center Earns Joint Commission Certification

BURLINGTON:  Fletcher Allen’s Multidisciplinary Stroke Center recently received the Joint Commission’s Certificate of Distinction for Primary Stroke Centers. 

According to the Joint Commission’s website, this certification “recognizes centers that make exceptional efforts to foster better outcomes for stroke care.  Achievement of certification signifies that the services provided have the critical elements to achieve long-term success in improving outcomes.”   

“We are very pleased that the Joint Commission, the nation’s premier health care accreditation and certification organization, has recognized our Stroke Center’s commitment to high quality academic health care in service to the community,” said Christopher Commichau, M.D., a Fletcher Allen neurologist and University of Vermont Associate Professor of Neurology and Neurosurgery, who serves as co-leader of Fletcher Allen’s Stroke Center along with Dr. Mark Gorman, and directs the Neurology Residency Program.

Fletcher Allen’s Multidisciplinary Stroke Center, now the only Joint Commission-certified stroke center in Vermont, offers comprehensive care including acute stroke care, post-stroke care, and stroke education and prevention. 
 
The Joint Commission's Primary Stroke Center Certification program was developed in collaboration with the American Stroke Association, based on the Brain Attack Coalition's "Recommendations for the Establishment of Primary Stroke Centers”.
 
Fletcher Allen’s Stroke and Neurovascular Program also received “The Bronze Award” in 2007 from the American Heart Association for meeting or surpassing standards of the Association’s “Get with the Guidelines” program 90% of the time for three consecutive months.  “Get with the Guidelines” is a quality initiative that sets specific standards for the care of stroke patients.  Fletcher Allen was the only hospital in Vermont to participate in this program, and was compared to hospitals participating in this program across the nation.

Learn more about Fletcher Allen’s Stroke Center by calling 802-847-4589, or visit our website at: http://www.fahc.org/Stroke_Center/index.html.

About the Joint Commission
An independent, not-for-profit organization, The Joint Commission accredits and certifies more than 15,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States. Joint Commission accreditation and certification is recognized nationwide as a symbol of quality that reflects an organization’s commitment to meeting certain performance standards.   The Joint Commission’s mission is to continuously improve the safety and quality of care provided to the public through the provision of health care accreditation and related services that support performance improvement in health care organizations.

About Fletcher Allen
Fletcher Allen Health Care, together with our partners at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, is Vermont’s academic medical center.  Our mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by integrating patient care, education and research in a caring environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center -- providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately 150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care for a rural region.  For more information about Fletcher Allen, visit our Web site at www.fletcherallen.org. 

]]> Thu, 29 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_health_care_stroke_center_earns_joint_commiss.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_cigna_reach_accord.html For Release:  Jan. 13, 2009

C O N T A C TS:
 Lindsay ShearerCIGNA HealthCare603-268-7721
Mike NobleFletcher Allen Health Care802-847-2886

                                                                                                                                Fletcher Allen, CIGNA Reach AccordBURLINGTON, Vt. – Jan. 13, 2009 -- Fletcher Allen Health Care and CIGNA HealthCare announced today that they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding that will allow individuals served by CIGNA HealthCare to continue to receive services at in-network rates from Fletcher Allen. Both organizations described this as a significant step that will extend their contractual relationship without interruption to patient care.  The new contract will run from February 1, 2009 through January 31, 2011, replacing the current contract which would have expired the end of this month.  "We are pleased that our organizations have successfully concluded our recent negotiations.  We believe that with this contract, Fletcher Allen and CIGNA have been able to balance fair reimbursement to Fletcher Allen while controlling costs for individuals and their employers throughout the State," said Don Curry, president and general manager of CIGNA HealthCare of New England. "We look forward to working with Fletcher Allen to provide effective and affordable health care for Vermont residents.”

“We have all worked diligently to reach this agreement,” said Roger Deshaies, chief financial officer, Fletcher Allen Health Care. “Vermonters rely on us to provide efficient and effective trauma care as well as care for the most serious cases of heart disease, stroke and cancer. This contract will assure continuity of care for the many Vermont residents whose health care insurance is provided by CIGNA who receive their care at Fletcher Allen.  As one of the state’s largest employers, we are well aware of the cost of health insurance, and as a health care provider, we are doing everything we can to provide efficient high-quality care.”  About CIGNA

CIGNA (NYSE:CI), a global health service company, is dedicated to helping people improve their health, well-being and security.  CIGNA Corporation's operating subsidiaries provide an integrated suite of medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy and vision care benefits, as well as group life, accident and disability insurance, to approximately 47 million people throughout the United States and around the world. To learn more about CIGNA, visit www.cigna.com.

About Fletcher AllenFletcher Allen Health Care, together with our partners at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, is Vermont’s academic medical center.  Our mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by integrating patient care, education and research in a caring environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center -- providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately 150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care for a rural region.  For more information about Fletcher Allen, visit our Web site at www.fletcherallen.org.  
]]> Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_cigna_reach_accord.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_health_care_teams_with_vermont_hitec_to_train.html For Release: Immediate (January 9, 2009)

Contact:                                             

Julie A. Davis
Executive Director, Vermont HITEC
802-343-2539Kim O’Leary
Fletcher Allen Health Care 
802-847-2886Fletcher Allen Health Care Teams with Vermont HITEC to Train Phlebotomists

Applications for Free Training Program Due January 26

BURLINGTON, VT: Fletcher Allen Health Care and Vermont HITEC announced today that they are recruiting candidates for the partnership’s first clinical training program, which will lead directly to employment at Fletcher Allen Health Care.  Also for the first time, Fletcher Allen Health Care has extended this training opportunity to current hospital employees. 

A total of 10 program participants will be trained to work directly with patients as full-time phlebotomists.  A phlebotomist obtains blood specimens using venipuncture and capillary collection from patients of all ages.

The phlebotomist program is conducted under the auspices of the Fletcher Allen Workforce Development Institute, a partnership between Fletcher Allen Health Care and Vermont HITEC. The Institute is funded with support from Senator Patrick J. Leahy. The phlebotomist program follows on the success of four previous training programs implemented by the partnership between Fletcher Allen and Vermont HITEC over the past four years. It is funded with support from the Vermont Department of Economic Development and the Vermont Department of Labor. 

The training programs are targeted to unemployed and underemployed Vermonters, and for the first time, current Fletcher Allen staff, and are offered free to selected participants.  Successful graduates of the program will be offered positions at Fletcher Allen at the completion of the 8-week course. 

"We deeply value our partnership with Vermont HITEC, which has grown into a long-term commitment to train Vermonters for jobs in the health care industry – not just today, but for many years to come," said Melinda L. Estes, M.D., president and chief executive officer of Fletcher Allen Health Care.                                

"We fill the gap between motivated individuals and employers looking for trained staff," added Gerry Ghazi, President of Vermont HITEC.  "Our goal at Vermont HITEC is to provide motivated Vermonters with the opportunity to acquire the skills needed for great jobs at highly successful organizations here in Vermont - these health care training programs are an excellent way to match Fletcher Allen Health Care with exceptional individuals.  We are excited to have grown our training programs to prepare participants for clinical careers."

Individuals will be selected for the training program through an extensive recruitment process. They will be required to participate in a free 8-week training program and one-year paid internship, at full wages and benefits, at Fletcher Allen.  The free training will prepare individuals to take the Phlebotomy Certification exam, issued by the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA).  The pay scale for phlebotomists starts at $11.59 per hour with long-term earning potential of up to $17.37 per hour.  However, individuals who complete this program will be hired by Fletcher Allen at a minimum of $12.69 per hour.  The positions will also include a comprehensive benefits package.

NOTE: The submission deadline for phlebotomist applications is January 26, 2009.  To apply, visit the Vermont HITEC website at www.vthitec.org and complete the online application.  For more information or assistance, contact Lisa Gorman, ITAR Project Leader & Mentor via email at: lisa.gorman@vthitec.org, 802-872-0660, or by writing to: Vermont HITEC, P.O. Box 1548, Williston, VT 05495.

About the Fletcher Allen/Vermont HITEC Partnership

The Fletcher Allen Workforce Development Institute was created in partnership with Vermont HITEC to help address critical workforce development needs by training unemployed and underemployed Vermonters for jobs that are persistently difficult to fill. The institute is designed to be flexible to match current workforce needs.

Fletcher Allen and Vermont HITEC developed their partnership in 2004 with funding assistance from both the State of Vermont and the U.S. Department of Labor.  The first Vermont HITEC training session was conducted over an eight-month period in an intensive training program for 20 medical transcriptionists.  This work-at-home program was followed by the launching of a more formal health care workforce development training institute developed with the support of a $325,000 federal grant secured by Senator Patrick Leahy.  The federal funding allowed for the implementation of the workforce institute and associated programs. Senator Leahy has since secured another $588,000 Federal Earmark to support additional training programs.

Funding for the phlebotomy program is offered in part with support from the Vermont Department of Economic Development and the Vermont Department of Labor. To date, a total of 58 Vermonters have been trained and offered positions at Fletcher Allen Health Care as a result of these programs.About Vermont HITECVermont HITEC is a 501C (3) non-profit organization with a mission to educate, train and employ Vermonters in a variety of fields. Vermont HITEC has employed over 300 Vermonters over the past seven years in medical transcription, information technology and manufacturing partnering with over 20 Vermont businesses including Fletcher Allen Health Care, Husky Injection Molding Systems, Hazelett Strip Casting Corporation, IDX Systems (GE Healthcare) and Dealer.com. About Fletcher AllenFletcher Allen Health Care, together with our partners at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, is Vermont’s academic medical center.  Our mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by integrating patient care, education and research in a caring environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center – providing advanced are to approximately one million people in Vermont and northern New York – and as a community hospital for approximately 150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care for a rural region.  For more information about Fletcher Allen, visit our Web site at www.fletcherallen.org.

           

]]> Fri, 09 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_health_care_teams_with_vermont_hitec_to_train.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/threenewtrusteesjoinfletcherallenboard.html Immediate (December 9, 2008)
 
Kim O'Leary
Marketing and Communications
802-847-2886

 

Three New Trustees Join Fletcher Allen Board

BURLINGTON, VT - The Fletcher Allen Board of Trustees accepted the appointments of three new trustees today - Geoffrey Shields, dean of Vermont Law School, Ruth Uphold, M.D., attending physician and former medical director of Fletcher Allen's Emergency Department, and Russell Tracy, Ph.D., Professor of Pathology and Biochemistry and Senior Associate Dean of Research & Academic Affairs at the University of Vermont College of Medicine.  These appointments were made at the annual meeting of the Fletcher Allen Board, held today in the McClure Lobby Conference Room on the Medical Center Campus in Burlington.

Geoffrey Shields of Tunbridge has been dean of Vermont Law School since August 2004, the seventh dean in the school's history.  Prior to this appointment, Shields was a partner and past chair of the Management Committee of Gardner Carton and Douglas, a Chicago and Washington, DC based law firm, where he specialized in legal issues relating to not-for-profit institutions.  He has held a variety of legal and advisory positions in the not-for-profit, hospital, education, investment banking, judicial and governmental sectors.  Shields received his BA in economics from Harvard College and his law degree from Yale Law School.

"We are very pleased to have Jeff Shields join the Fletcher Allen Board," said Chris Dutton, chair of the Fletcher Allen Board of Trustees.  "He brings a wealth of highly relevant expertise in the areas of hospital, higher education and complex transactional law that will be very helpful to us."

Ruth Uphold, M.D. of Charlotte is a clinical attending physician and former medical director of Fletcher Allen's Emergency department, where she been practicing for the past 27 years.  She is also currently a professor of surgery at the University of Vermont College of Medicine, where she sits on the College's admissions committee.  Dr. Uphold received her B.S. from the University of California at San Francisco and her M.D. from Tufts University in Boston.  Prior to joining Fletcher Allen in 1981, Dr. Uphold worked in the Emergency department of hospitals in Maine and California.  She is an active member of her community, serving on various boards and committees, including the United Way board.

"Dr. Ruth Uphold has been an invaluable clinical presence at Fletcher Allen for nearly 30 years.  We are delighted that she will be bringing her expertise, enthusiasm and commitment to this new role on the Fletcher Allen Board," said Dutton.   

Russell Tracy, Ph.D of Colchester is currently Professor of Pathology and Biochemistry and Senior Associate Dean for Research & Academic Affairs at the University of Vermont College of Medicine.  He has published over 400 scientific publications, speaks frequently in major national and international venues, and is currently involved in a number of federally-funded molecular epidemiological studies in his areas of interest, cardiovascular disease and aging.  Dr. Tracy is a member of many national and international societies, serves on several editorial boards, and reviews grants and contracts frequently for the National Institutes of Health.  He received his doctorate from Syracuse University and did his post-doctoral training at the Mayo Clinic.

"We are greatly looking forward to Dr. Tracy's contributions to the Fletcher Allen Board," said Dutton.  "He is greatly respected in the scientific and research communities and I know his expertise will serve us well as we continuously work to enhance the national standing of our academic medical center."

About Fletcher Allen
Fletcher Allen, together with our partners at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, is Vermont's academic medical center.  Our mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by integrating patient care, education and research in a caring environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center -- providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately 150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care for a rural region.  For more information about Fletcher Allen, visit our Web site at www.fletcherallen.org.  

]]> Tue, 09 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/threenewtrusteesjoinfletcherallenboard.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/johnbrumstedmdelectedpresidentofvermontmedicalsociet.html



Immediate (December 1, 2008)
 
Kim O'Leary
Marketing and Communications
802-847-2886
 
Valerie Lewis
Vermont Medical Society
802- 223-7898

 



Shelburne Resident Dr. John Brumsted Elected President of Vermont Medical Society

BURLINGTON VT - Shelburne resident John R. Brumsted, M.D., was
elected president of the Vermont Medical Society for 2008 - 2009 at the
Society's 195th Annual Meeting on October 25.  The Vermont Medical
Society represents more than 1,500 physicians licensed in Vermont.

Dr. Brumsted is Chief Quality Officer for Fletcher Allen
and served as Chief Medical Officer for Fletcher Allen from 1998 -
2005.  He was Senior Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs at the
University of Vermont College of Medicine from 2000 - 2006.  Dr.
Brumsted is also a board-certified obstetrician/gynecologist with
medical staff privileges in gynecology and reproductive endocrinology
at Fletcher Allen.

During his inaugural speech, Dr. Brumsted discussed the VMS's
legislative priorities for 2009 and the Vermont Blueprint for Health, a
statewide chronic care initiative that Fletcher Allen actively supports.

"During the last 3 years, communities in Vermont have implemented
improved diabetes care and prevention through provider training,
expanded use of information technology, Clinical Microsystems training,
self management workshops and support for community prevention
programs," said Dr. Brumsted.  "I'm personally involved in one of the
Blueprint pilot communities and I feel they offer a great opportunity
to provide primary care physicians with the necessary support and
resources to treat their patients with chronic conditions in an optimal
manner."

Dr. Brumsted received his medical degree from Dartmouth Medical
School in 1978.  He completed his residency in Obstetrics and
Gynecology, and fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and
Infertility, at the University of Vermont.

About the Vermont Medical Society

The Vermont Medical Society represents more than 1,500 physicians
licensed in Vermont.  The mission of the Vermont Medical Society is to
serve the public by facilitating and enhancing physician's individual
and collective commitments, capabilities and efforts to improve the
quality of life for the people of Vermont through the provision of
accessible and appropriate health care services.

About Fletcher Allen

Fletcher Allen, together with our partners at the
University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing
and Health Sciences, is Vermont's academic medical center.  Our mission
is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by
integrating patient care, education and research in a caring
environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center --
providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont
and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately
150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more
than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and
services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a
national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care
for a rural region.  For more information about Fletcher Allen, visit
our Web site at www.FletcherAllen.org.

 

]]> Mon, 01 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/johnbrumstedmdelectedpresidentofvermontmedicalsociet.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/executiveearnstopnationalhealthcaremanagementcredenti.html


Immediate (October 23, 2008)
 
Kim O'Leary  
Marketing and Communications
(802) 847-2886




Fletcher Allen Executive Earns Top National Health Care Management Credential

BURLINGTON, VT- Dawn A. LeBaron, vice president of Hospital Services
at Fletcher Allen recently became a Fellow of the American
College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), the nation's premier
professional society for healthcare leaders.

The American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) is an
international professional society of more than 30,000 health care
executives who lead our nations' hospitals, health care systems and
other health care organizations.  ACHE is known for its prestigious
credentialing and educational programs and its annual Congress on
Healthcare Leadership, which draws more than 4,500 participants each
year.  ACHE's publishing division, Health Administration Press, is one
of the largest publishers of books and journals on all aspects of
health services management, in addition to textbooks for use in college
and university courses. 

Fellow status in ACHE represents achievement of the organization's
highest standard of professional development, evidenced by the fact
that only 7,500 healthcare executives nationwide hold this
distinction.  To obtain Fellow status, candidates must fulfill multiple
requirements, including passing a comprehensive examination, meeting
academic and experiential criteria, earning continuing education
credits, and demonstrating professional and community involvement. 
Fellows are committed to ongoing professional development and undergo
recertification every three years.

"I feel privileged to use the ACHE credential, which signifies my
ACHE Fellow status and board certification in health care management,"
said LeBaron, who resides in Colchester.  "I look forward to leveraging
the competencies I've acquired through this prestigious program for the
benefit of the patients and their families we serve here at Fletcher
Allen."

"Because health care management ultimately affects the people in our
communities, it is critically important to have a standard of
excellence promoted by a professional organization," said Thomas C.
Dolan, Ph. D, CAE, President and Chief Executive Officer of ACHE.  "By
achieving ACHE Fellow status, and simultaneously earning board
certification from ACHE, healthcare leaders demonstrate their
commitment to providing high-quality service to the patients and
communities they serve."

For more information regarding the ACHE credential, please contact the ACHE Division of Membership at (312) 424-9400 or membership1@ache.org, or visit the Credentialing page on www.ache.org.

About Fletcher Allen

Fletcher Allen, together with our partners at the
University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing
and Health Sciences, is Vermont's academic medical center.  Our mission
is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by
integrating patient care, education and research in a caring
environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center --
providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont
and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately
150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more
than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and
services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a
national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care
for a rural region.  For more information about Fletcher Allen, visit
our Web site at www.fletcherallen.org.

 

]]> Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/executiveearnstopnationalhealthcaremanagementcredenti.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_has_innovative_heart_attack_program.html

By Associated Press (AP)



BURLINGTON, Vt. (09/28/08) The last thing Erik FitzPatrick remembers
of the Corporate Challenge, he was waving to his wife and young
daughter as he neared the finish line.

That's when he went down
with a massive heart attack. Fortunately, runners behind him in the May
15 road race in Montpelier started CPR, and an ambulance arrived within
minutes.

"Evidently, I was dead," said FitzPatrick, 43, of South Burlington.

The
next day, he woke up in the hospital. He doesn't remember being
resuscitated twice in the street, taken to Central Vermont Hospital in
Berlin and then transferred to Fletcher Allen in
Burlington, where physicians opened his clogged artery about 90 minutes
after he had been stricken.

FitzPatrick figures he was lucky to
have the heart attack where he did, and not while running alone. But
the system that got him to Burlington so fast was anything but luck.

Physicians
at Fletcher Allen have been working with their colleagues
to provide heart attack patients lifesaving treatment in minutes rather
than hours, even if they fall ill in remote parts of the state.

The program uses technology, teamwork and a change in state rules.

Over
the last two years, a system has been honed to ensure that all patients
who arrive at the Burlington hospital can get needed treatment in 90
minutes, the national goal set by the American College of Cardiology
and the American Heart Association.

Now, that 90-minute clock is
being expanded to regional hospitals to see that patients who arrive in
St. Albans, Morrisville or Berlin can still get the treatment only
available in Burlington.

"This is really one of those landmark
breakthroughs in emergency cardiac care," said Dan Manz, chief of
emergency medical services for the Vermont Department of Health, who
helped develop the procedures.

According to 2007 data from 84
teaching hospitals, Fletcher Allen had the fourth-lowest heart attack
mortality rate of those facilities, the first time it ranked so highly.

The
types of heart attack that need such aggressive treatment are those in
which the arteries are completely blocked, a condition called
ST-elevation myocardial infarction, or STEMI.

In the more common
non-STEMI heart attacks, arteries aren't completely blocked, so some
blood is still reaching the heart muscles.

"STEMIs are a fire
drill. Every 30-minute interval that goes by, mortality increases
significantly," said Dr. Harold Dauerman, director of Fletcher Allen's
Cardiac Catheterization Laboratories. "On the other hand, non-STEMI's
are not as time-pressured. If you catch them within four to 48 hours of
the presentation, they do very well."

The treatment given to
STEMI patients is to insert a catheter into a leg artery, feed it into
the blocked artery around the heart and then expand a balloon to open
the artery. A wire mesh tube called a stent (about the size of a ball
point pen spring) is then placed at the spot of the blockage, to keep
it open.

The emphasis on opening arteries with the balloon and
stent developed in the early years of this decade after it became clear
the procedure is significantly better than using clot busting drugs _
if the procedure can be performed quickly enough.

The effort to
get STEMI patients to the appropriate hospital within 90 minutes is
nationwide. Last year, the American Heart Association launched its
program "Mission: Lifeline," the goals of which are similar to those
being put into practice in northwestern Vermont.

Only about a
quarter of all hospitals can do the procedures. And only 8.6 percent of
STEMI patients nationally who need to be moved between hospitals
receive the procedure within the 90-minute window, said Dr. Alice
Jacobs, a cardiologist at Boston University and a past president of the
American Heart Association. She's helping lead the Mission Lifeline
campaign.

"It really takes a system of care, particularly in rural areas," said Jacobs

One
of the first large areas to develop such a system was in Minnesota. Now
35 hospitals and 11 clinics throughout the state have a system in place
to get patients to Minneapolis for treatment, (although not all the
hospitals send all their patients to Minneapolis) said Dr. Tim Henry of
the Minnesota Heart Institute.

"When I started talking about this there was a lot of push-back," Henry said. "In 2003ish the majority were naysayers."

But
the system cut in half the number of heart attack deaths, Henry said.
The system also cuts the length of hospital stays and reduces other
complications.

Now there are 50 to 60 such systems around the country.

The
first step to set up such a system at Fletcher Allen was to require
that an on-call team that does the angioplasty always be available
within 30 minutes. Now, 100 percent of STEMI patients who arrive at
Fletcher Allen are treated within 90 minutes.

Patients who
arrive at Northwestern Vermont Medical Center are being treated in
Burlington about 75 minutes after they arrive at the St. Albans
hospital. Times are being reduced from other hospitals as well.

"We
work by e-mail directly with all the (emergency department) directors
and the ED staffs throughout the region to make sure we have a very
slick system, sort of a bat-phone approach, one phone call gets the
whole cath lab team here, gets everything going," said Dauerman.

Increasingly,
ambulances are equipped with special heart monitors that can determine
if a STEMI heart attack is taking place. EMTs are being trained to read
the data. In some cases, the information can be transmitted directly to
a hospital where a physician can read it.

So, for example, if a
person in Stowe has a STEMI heart attack, an ambulance can take them
straight to Fletcher Allen, rather than going first to Copley Hospital
in Morrisville, as standard ambulance procedure requires.

Making that change wasn't as simple as it sounds.

Vermont
rules used to require that ambulances take patients to the nearest
hospital, said Dr. John Kaeding, the emergency room director at Copley.

The
St. Albans hospital has had about three or four STEMI cases a month
since the system was implemented, said Dr. Marc Kutler, an emergency
room physician at Northwestern.

The patient who arrives in St. Albans with a STEMI isn't even taken off the ambulance stretcher.

"In
a lot of cases we can get the patient out and on the road in less than
15 minutes," Kutler said. "The more you do it, it gets more organized,
it gets fine tuned.

Kaeding said that since Copley joined the
program earlier this year they haven't had a case, but that's typical
of emergency medicine. "You don't see any, then you see three in three
days," he said.

For patients too far away to reach Fletcher
Allen in time to meet the 90-minute goal, physicians will treat them
using a combination of clot-busting drugs followed by the balloon when
they reach the hospital.

In retrospect, FitzPatrick, who works
for the state of Vermont, said he'd noticed the tightness in his chest
during several training runs before he started the Corporate Challenge
road race last May. He ate right and exercised and - being so young -
didn't consider himself a heart attack candidate.

Then he died on the street.

Four
months later, he has recovered 100 percent. Blood flow to his heart was
restored so quickly there was no permanent damage. He's running again
and living a normal life.

"Here he is in this race when he had
his cardiac arrest,' said Dr. Matthew Watkins, who treated him at
Fletcher Allen. "Then another race started with incredibly high stakes.
He went from this race to another medical race for which he got the
gold medal."

More Information

To learn more about cardiac care at Fletcher Allen, click here.

 

]]> Sun, 28 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_has_innovative_heart_attack_program.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/national_publication_profiles_our_fresh_food_offerings.html Did you know Fletcher Allen is serving up fresh, organic and local food?

We’re part of the Vermont Fresh Network, which encourages farmers,
food producers and chefs to build partnerships that contribute to
stronger local communities and economies. And we were one of the first
hospitals in the country to sign the “Healthy Food in Health Care
Pledge” – a commitment to serve local, nutritious and sustainable food.
These efforts ensure that Fletcher Allen is providing food that is both
nutritious, and is produced in a way that’s good for our environment
and community. 

Read more. National health care publication, Modern Healthcare, recently featured Fletcher Allen in its August issue.

 

]]> Wed, 20 Aug 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/national_publication_profiles_our_fresh_food_offerings.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/copley_hospital_and_fletcher_allen_to_develop_new_heart.html


(Immediate) Monday, July 7, 2008
 
Leah Hollenberger
Development & Public Relations
Copley Health System
802-888-8301
 
Mike Noble
Marketing & Communications
Fletcher Allen
802-847-2886
 
Robert Stirewalt
Communications Office
VT Department of Health
802-863-7281




 
State EMS Office Allows Copley Hospital and Fletcher Allen to Develop New Heart Attack Protocol 

BURLINGTON VT - When a heart attack happens, every minute counts.  A
new protocol, approved by the Vermont Office of Emergency Medical
Services (EMS), shortens the length of time it takes for individuals to
receive advanced heart attack care by transporting them directly to a
hospital that performs an artery-opening procedure called angioplasty.

Developed by Copley Hospital in Morrisville, and Fletcher Allen
Health Care, located in Burlington, the new protocol improves access to
specialized care for people who experience a particular type of heart
attack referred to as STEMI (ST-wave elevated myocardial infarction).

People experiencing this type of heart attack have complete blockage
of a vessel that supplies blood to the heart.  Because the heart needs
to beat continuously, quick and effective restoration of blood flow is
the best method to save lives. Opening blocked vessels with a balloon,
referred to as angioplasty, or percutaneous coronary intervention
(PCI), is the most effective treatment for STEMI.  Fletcher Allen is
the only hospital that performs angioplasties in Vermont.

Prior to the revised protocol, EMS crews were directed to take a
heart attack patient to the nearest hospital for evaluation.  The
patient could be treated with clot busters (medications designed to
open the blocked vessel) at that hospital, or, after determining the
need, transferred to a hospital that performs angioplasties.

Under the new protocol, Copley Hospital medical staff will provide
medical direction to EMS providers on the scene to decide if a heart
attack patient needs to be transferred directly to Fletcher Allen for
an angioplasty.

This new protocol reflects what is happening nationally in the field
with EMS providers.The collaboration between Copley Hospital and
Fletcher Allen sets a new standard for specialized emergency care in
Vermont.

"Copley has a long history of cooperating with EMS to advance
emergency care for our community," said Dr. John Kaeding, Chief of
Emergency Medicine at Copley Hospital. "This new protocol will improve
heart attack care for residents and visitors in the Lamoille County
area."

Dan Manz, EMS chief at the Vermont Department of Health observed
that the new STEMI protocol is an excellent example of how the
professionals at a community hospital, a referral center, and the local
EMS agencies can integrate their services to improve the system of care
for patients with a very time-sensitive emergency.

"Our cardiology specialists in PCI under the direction of Dr. Harold
Dauerman have worked hard to improve our systems and practices to be
able to accept these patients on a 24/7 basis," said David Schneider,
M.D., director of Cardiology Services at Fletcher Allen and professor
of Medicine at the UVM College of Medicine.  "We continue to work with
area hospitals to improve cardiac care for heart attack victims.  The
work is paying off with times to open artery that are among the best in
the nation, while at the same time, we are seeing significant
improvements in the survival of patients.  Equally important, early
treatment preserves heart function and allows people to return to
normal activities after a heart attack."

Approximately one heart attack patient per month is transferred to
Fletcher Allen from the Copley service area annually. "While we don't
want any one to have a heart attack," said Dr. Kaeding, "I feel
confident that the teamwork developed by the EMS system, Fletcher Allen
and Copley gives these patients an excellent chance to survive and
return to normal activities."

About Copley Hospital

Copley Hospital is the essential health care resource in the
Lamoille County area, governed by patient-centered values and supported
by the community. Over the years Copley has developed a standard of
clinical excellence and an array of services rare for a small, rural
community hospital. Copley also actively promotes wellness, providing
an extensive calendar of community education opportunities.  In 2007,
Copley was named EMS Hospital of the Year. The hospital provides more
than one million dollars in charity care annually.

About Fletcher Allen

Fletcher Allen, together with our partners at the
University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing
and Health Sciences, is Vermont's academic medical center.  Our mission
is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by
integrating patient care, education and research in a caring
environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center --
providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont
and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately
150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more
than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and
services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a
national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care
for a rural region.

About Vermont's EMS

Vermont's Emergency Medical Services System (EMS) is composed of
approximately 180 licensed First Response and Ambulance services
staffed by 3,000 certified EMS providers. These pre-hospital emergency
care providers include First Responders/Emergency Care Attendants, EMT
Basics, EMT Intermediates and Paramedics. The Vermont Office of EMS and
Injury Prevention is the state office responsible for EMS regulation
and system development. The EMS Office licenses EMS organizations,
provides ambulance inspections, administers certification exams for EMS
providers and is active in system development and injury prevention
programs. The majority of the EMS providers are volunteers.

 

]]> Mon, 07 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/copley_hospital_and_fletcher_allen_to_develop_new_heart.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_receives_national_environmental_award.html


Immediate (June 23, 2008)
 
Mike Noble
Marketing & Communications
802-847-2886



 


Fletcher Allen Receives National Environmental Award

BURLINGTON VT – Fletcher Allen is one of 50 health care
organizations nationwide to receive a Partners for Change Award
from Practice Greenhealth, an organization that seeks to advance
environmental excellence in health care.

The Partners for Change Award recognizes organizations for a
demonstrated commitment to environmental practices and sustainability.
The Award is presented to those organizations that are working to
improve and expand upon their programs to eliminate mercury, reduce
waste and prevent pollution.

“This award recognizes the hard work of our staff to provide the
highest quality health care while minimizing our impact on the
environment.” said Angie Marano, chief operating officer.  “I am
extremely proud of our efforts to achieve environmental sustainability
and thank the many employees who make our success possible.”

Fletcher Allen participates in a number of environmental initiatives
including composting, seeking out environmentally-friendly products for
use in maintaining and cleaning its facilities, selecting sustainable
food choices, and dozens of other initiatives.

About Fletcher Allen

Fletcher Allen, together with our partners at the
University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing
and Health Sciences, is Vermont’s academic medical center.  Our mission
is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by
integrating patient care, education and research in a caring
environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center --
providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont
and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately
150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more
than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and
services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a
national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care
for a rural region.

 

]]> Mon, 23 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_receives_national_environmental_award.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_names_vice_president_of_finance.html

Immediate (Tuesday, May 27, 2008)
 
Mike Noble
Marketing & Communications
(802) 847-2886  



 


Fletcher Allen Names Vice President of Finance 

BURLINGTON, VT – Fletcher Allen announced today that it
has named Sophia Holder to the position of vice president,
Finance/Controller, effective mid-June.  The appointment was made
following a national search.

Holder, 35, comes to Fletcher Allen from Partners HealthCare System,
Inc. Since joining Partners in 1997, she has served in many system-wide
financial positions, and most recently served as the controller at
Faulkner Hospital in Boston for the past two years.

Partners HealthCare is an integrated health care system founded in
1994 by Brigham and Women's Hospital and Massachusetts General
Hospital. In addition to the two founding academic medical centers, the
system includes primary care and specialty physicians, community
hospitals, specialty facilities, community health centers, and other
health-related entities.

Prior to her role at Partners, Holder was employed by Price
Waterhouse Coopers in Boston as a senior associate serving
organizations that included health care and academic institutions.

“I am very pleased that Sophia has accepted this position,” said
Roger Deshaies, chief financial officer, Fletcher Allen.
“Her broad experience in health care finance will be a valuable asset
to the Finance Department and to the organization.”

“I welcome the opportunity to join Fletcher Allen,” said Holder.
 “This is a dynamic organization that will offer interesting challenges
in the years ahead.  I think it will be very rewarding to be a part of
this team.”

Holder holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Boston University, where
she graduated magna cum laude. She is a certified public accountant and
a member of the National Association of Black Accountants.

Holder, her husband, Charles, and their young son, Charles, Jr., plan to move to the Burlington area this summer.

About Fletcher Allen

Fletcher Allen, together with our partners at the
University of Vermont College of Medicine and the College of Nursing
and Health Sciences, is Vermont’s academic medical center.  Our mission
is to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve by
integrating patient care, education and research in a caring
environment.  Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center --
providing advanced care to approximately one million people in Vermont
and northern New York -- and as a community hospital for approximately
150,000 residents in Chittenden and Grand Isle counties.  With more
than 30 patient care sites and 100 outreach clinics, programs and
services throughout the region, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a
national model for the delivery of high-quality academic health care
for a rural region.

 

]]> Tue, 27 May 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/fletcher_allen_names_vice_president_of_finance.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/executive_director_of_fletcher_allen_foundation_named.html

Immediate (May 22, 2008)     
 
Maria McClellan         
Marketing & Communications
(802) 847-2886



 



Battillo Named Executive Director of Fletcher Allen Foundation

BURLINGTON, VT - Kathryn Battillo has been named Foundation
executive director and vice president of Development at Fletcher Allen
Health Care following a national search. She will begin her new role at
Fletcher Allen effective August 1.

Battillo, 55, comes to Vermont's academic medical center from the
Boston area with more than 20 years of fundraising experience at a
variety of institutions, including Suffolk University, the Boston
Ballet, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Massachusetts Institute of
Technology, and Babson College.  Battillo is not a stranger to Vermont,
having worked in Alumni Relations at the University of Vermont in the
late 80's; she also has a son who graduated from UVM in 2006.

"We are very pleased that Kathryn will be returning to Vermont to
lead our fundraising efforts here at Vermont's academic medical
center," said Fletcher Allen President and Chief Executive Officer
Melinda L. Estes, M.D.  "I believe her track record of success in
fundraising for institutions of higher education and health care make
her an ideal candidate to promote our philanthropic mission at Fletcher
Allen."

The Fletcher Allen Foundation is a partnership with the community
that was launched in January, 2008, to enhance philanthropic support
for the organization.  Edwin I. Colodny is the chair of the board of
the Foundation.  "Kathryn is both a proven leader and successful
fundraiser," said Colodny.  "With her energy and experience, I believe
Fletcher Allen is now poised to take its fundraising to a new level."

"This is a chance of a lifetime for me to partner with Dr. Estes, Ed
Colodny and the Fletcher Allen Foundation to increase private
philanthropic support to help the organization achieve its vision of
becoming a national model for the delivery of high-quality academic
health care for a rural region," said Battillo.  "My family and I have
strong ties to Vermont, and it is a dream come true to move back to
this beautiful state to undertake such a challenging and exciting
fundraising position at the state's academic medical center."

Since 2002, Battillo has served as vice president for advancement at
Suffolk University where she launched the university's largest capital
campaign -- $75 million - to coincide with the university's centennial
in the fall of 2006.  A year and a half into the public phase, the
campaign has raised $52.7 million, which is approximately 70 percent of
goal.  In addition to overseeing fundraising, Battillo also oversaw
alumni relations, operations and research, and communications at
Suffolk, successfully reorganizing and building the staff, which grew
from 21 to 51 over a five-year period.

Prior to joining Suffolk University, Battillo held a variety of
leadership positions in fundraising, including chief development
officer at the Boston Ballet, where she increased private support by
100 percent, helping the organization balance its overall budget for
the two years she was present - a critical accomplishment for the
Ballet.

She also served as director of development at Dana-Farber Cancer
Institute from 1999 to 2000, where she created the first-ever major
gifts team, and built a staff of nine that partnered with the
physicians to raise money for their treatment and research centers.

In addition, her background also includes serving as principal gifts
officer at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and serving as
associate director of Alumni Relations at the University of Vermont
from 1985 to 1987.  She also spent five years as associate director of
Alumni Relations at Simmons College in Boston, from 1980 to 1985.

Battillo received a bachelor of arts in Psychology from Bridgewater
State College in Bridgewater, MA, in 1975, and received her master's in
Library Science in 1979 from Simmons College in Boston.

A native of Boston, Battillo will be relocating to Vermont with her
husband, Tom, and her son, Michael, who is in the process of completing
his master's in business administration at Suffolk University through
an online program.

About the Fletcher Allen Foundation

The Fletcher Allen Foundation is a partnership with the community
that was launched in January, 2008, to enhance philanthropic support
for the organization.  In addition to Ed Colodny, the Foundation board
includes Nancy Binter, M.D., Brian Boardman, David Coates, Lois
McClure, Holly Miller, Marc Monheimer, David Schneider, M.D., Roger
Stone, Betty Woods, and Glen Wright.

About Fletcher Allen

Fletcher Allen, together with its partners at the
University of Vermont College of Medicine and College of Nursing and
Health Sciences, is Vermont's academic medical center.  Its mission is
to improve the health of the communities it serves by integrating
patient care, education, and research in a caring environment.

Fletcher Allen serves as a regional referral center, offering advanced care to the
approximately 1,000,000 people of Vermont and northern New York including
 a
Level I Trauma Center, the Vermont Children's Hospital, a Level III
Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and a National Cancer
Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer
Center -- one of 39 in the
nation.  Fletcher Allen also has state-of-the-art care for people with
heart disease and many other illnesses.

In its community
hospital role, Fletcher Allen serves approximately 150,000 residents in
Chittenden and Grand Isle counties and provides primary care services
at nine Vermont sites.  With more than 30 patient care sites and 100
outreach clinics, programs and services across Vermont and upstate New
York, Fletcher Allen is committed to being a national model for the
delivery of high-quality academic health care for a rural region. With
approximately 6,700 employees, Fletcher Allen ranks as the second
largest employer in the state.

 

]]> Thu, 22 May 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/executive_director_of_fletcher_allen_foundation_named.html http://www.fletcherallen.org/about/news_room/press_releases/level_1_trauma_center_re-verification.html Immediate (November 30, 2007)
 
Collin Parker
Marketing & Communications
(802) 847-2886
                                                          
Fletcher Allen Receives Re-Verification as Level I Trauma Center

BURLINGTON, VT - Fletcher Allen has received a three-year re-verification of its status as a Level I Trauma Center for adult patients.  The Level I Trauma Center designation is the highest accreditation given to trauma services and comes after a meticulous evaluation by the American College of Surgeons.

A Level I Trauma Center is capable of providing complete care for every aspect of injury.  The designation means that trauma patients have the highest priority and immediate access to all the resources in the academic health center around the clock.

Fletcher Allen is the only Level I Trauma Center in Vermont, and every year approximately 1,200 patients are admitted for traumatic injuries.  In 1994, Fletcher Allen's trauma service was the first in the nation to be verified at Level I for both adult and pediatric patients.  It was re-verified as a Level I Trauma Center in 1997, 2001, and 2004.

"We are honored to again receive this recognition," said Bruce Crookes, M.D., director of the Trauma division at Fletcher Allen.  "But more importantly, we are proud of our ability to provide the best possible care for patients in our community."

The American College of Surgeons, based in Chicago, is a scientific and educational association of surgeons founded in 1913 to raise the standards of surgical education and practice and to improve the care of the surgical patient. The College has 71,000 members and is the largest association of surgeons in the world. 

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