2010 Announcements Archive

Seton Network Medical Staff Meeting Set for Tuesday, Jan. 4, McFadden Auditorium, SMCA

Features "Improving Patient Safety A Success Story from the Perspective of a Practicing Physician," by A. Brian Wilcox Jr., MD, chief of staff and medical director of Cardiac Surgery at Baptist Hospital in Nashville, Tenn. Also includes a “Family of Hospitals Update” by Seton’s President/CEO Charles J. Barnett, FACHE, as well as a discussion of proposed bylaw amendments. Drinks and appetizers will be provided. Please RSVP to Casey Harrison at charrison@seton.org or (512) 324-8202.

The Seton Family of Hospitals designates this educational activity for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. (12/28/10)

Seton Gastroparesis Center Brings Stimulating Treatment to Central Texas

The physician team at the newly opened Seton Gastroparesis Center is offering Central Texas gastroparesis patients the latest treatment through the use of a neurostimulator, or stomach pacemaker. (11/30/10)

New Vendor Management System Raises the Bar

To ensure that physicians and associates can maintain their focus on safety and patient outcomes, the Seton Family of Hospitals is strengthening its vendor management program. (11-23-10)

2010 Seton Medical Staff Annual Meetings Scheduled

A list of annual medical staff meetings for each site, including the network-wide meeting on Jan. 4, is posted here on Doctor Link. For more information and to RSVP, please contact the representative listed for each meeting. (11/9/10)

Code STEMI and Stroke Protocols: A Quick Update to Aid your Practice Response

Recently, the question of how to adequately address CVA and STEMI/Cardiac CRT situations has arisen. Although many practitioners may understand the basics, protocols exist within the network that outline exactly what the proper, evidenced-based response should be. This short article will endeavor to highlight these two protocols and provide a refresher to busy clinicians as to the ideal action sequence.(11/9/10)

Seton Medical Center Williamson Earns Chest Pain Accreditation

Seton Williamson joins Seton Medical Center Austin and University Medical Center Brackenridge in receiving accreditation from the Society of Chest Pain Centers. (11/2/10)

Attention Physicians Employed by Seton-Affiliated Organizations

Ambulatory EMR Project Underway. (10/28/10)

ARS Moriendi: Spirituality and the Art of Dying, Nov. 11

Dr. Sarah M. Legett, MPH, medical director for the Palliative Care Program at Dell Children’s Medical Center, invites physicians from all specialties to learn more about the needs of, and how to respond to, dying and chronically ill patients and their families. The event will be held at the Clinical Education Center at Brackenridge, CEC1.114, from 12-1 p.m. Lunch provided by The Seton Fund; please RSVP to Chris Kazan Attal, (512) 324-7326. 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™ (10/29/10)

ARS Moriendi: Spirituality and the Art of Dying, Oct. 21

The Catholic Physicians Guild invites physicians from all specialties to learn more about the needs of, and how to respond to, dying and chronically ill patients and their families. The event will be held at the Seton Administrative Offices with a reception at 5:30 p.m. followed by the lecture from 6-7 p.m. (10/20/10)

Seton Spine & Scoliosis Center Offers Free Seminar, Oct. 21

Join Dr. Matthew Geck at the "Minimally Invasive Treatment and New Technologies in Scoliosis Care" seminar, where he will explain non-surgical and surgical treatment options for patients affected by Scoliosis or curvature of the spine. (10/15/10)

Physician Reception Follows White Mass Celebration, Oct. 20, 7:45 p.m

Physicians are invited to the Ninth Annual White Mass Reception in the St. Mary Cathedral Reception Hall. This event follows the White Mass Celebration, which begins at 6:30. Please RSVP to reserve your spot. (10/08/10)

Test Drive the da Vinci® Surgical System, Oct. 14

Experience the latest in robotic surgery at Seton Medical Center Austin, home to the first dual console da Vinci Surgical System in Central Texas. The event will be held in the North Lobby at SMCA on Thursday, Oct. 14, from 12-5 p.m. (10/12/10)

Kids Can’t Wait: What’s Next for Texas Kids and Health Care, Oct. 13, Driskill Hotel, Austin

This forum will bring together the children’s health community in Texas to address the current needs of children, strategize on ways to improve the political dialogue and improve the outlook for critical safety net programs in Texas. Congressman Lloyd Doggett will give the keynote address, "National Health Care Reform: What It Means for Texas." Please RSVP by Oct. 11 to Deirdre Byrne. 2 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. (9/27/10)

Challenges in High-Risk Obstetrics Conference

PLEASE NOTE: this meeting has been postponed. Rescheduling TBA. (9/23/10)

Texas Birth Defects Research Symposium 2010, Oct. 7

Co-hosted by the Texas Department of State Health Services, Dell Children's Medical Center and the Texas March of Dimes, this symposium will cover a wide range of topics including "20 Years Since Brownsville: What Have We Learned about the Causes of NTDs," "Medications and Pregnancy" and "New Directions for Genomic Research." This event is free, but space is limited – so be sure to REGISTER now. For more information, please contact Amy Case, (512) 458-7232, ext 2814. 6.75 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™ (9/16/10)

SMCH Holds Free Health Fair, Sept. 18.

In honor of its first anniversary, Seton Medical Center Hays is holding a community health fair with health and wellness info, free health screenings and discounted flu shots. The event will be held at the hospital from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Special thanks go to all participating physicians. (9/9/10)

2010 Kids Classic Golf Tournament and Auction Party, Sept. 18-20

Hosted by Tom and Christy Kite, the 16th-Annual Kids Classic Golf Tournament will be held at The Hills Country Club and benefits Dell Children's Medical Center. Register today! (9/7/10)

COMPASS Classes Begin Sept. 1.

The Seton Family of Hospitals and Ascension Health are offering web-based training modules for COMPASS: “Physician Comprehensive” and “FirstNet for Physicians” (ED only). (8/30/10)

Current Concepts in Neuroscience 2010, Sept. 17, Hyatt Regency Austin

Seats still available! Designed for the health care professional who cares for neurology and neurosurgery patients, this symposium will review recent advances in the diagnosis, medical and surgical management of neuroscience disorders. Register online to reserve your seat today. (8/26/10)

Save the Date: Challenges in High-Risk Obstetrics, Nov. 5-7, 2010, Four Seasons Hotel, Austin

This conference is designed for OB/GYNs, MFMs, perinatal nursing staff and obstetrical sonographers. The course objectives are to give the participants first-hand experience in obstetrical simulation exercises in the context of improving perinatal safety and to provide updated, evidence-based strategies for management of prematurity and other perinatal complications. 22.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. For more information or to register, please visit www.SMFM.org. (8/23/10)

Why Do We Need Signing, Timing and Dating?

A complete medical record contains sufficient information to identify the patient; support the diagnosis/condition; justify the care, treatment and services; document the chronological course and results of care, treatment and services; and promote continuity of care among providers. (8/17/10)

Save the Date: Texas Birth Defects Research Symposium 2010, Oct. 7, Dell Children's Signe Auditorium.

Co-hosted by the Texas Department of State Health Services, Dell Children's Medical Center and the Texas March of Dimes, this symposium will cover a wide range of topics including "20 Years Since Brownsville: What Have We Learned about the Causes of NTDs," "Medications and Pregnancy" and "New Directions for Genomic Research." Registration is free, but space is limited and attendees are encouraged to pre-register. For more information, please contact Amy Case, (512) 458-7232, ext 2814. (8/12/10)

Seats Still Available: Texas Injury and Violence Prevention Conference, Aug. 17-18.

Learn from state and national experts focused on providing attendees with training on the Core Competencies at all levels. Skill-building workshops will focus on coalition building, effective communication, program planning and implementation, evaluation, and advocating for policy change. Seton Administrative Offices, East Auditorium, 1345 Philomena St. (8/9/10)

SMCH Minimizes Surgical Trauma in Treatment of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

Seton Medical Center Hays and Dr. Joe Wells completed Hays County’s first minimally invasive procedure for abdominal aortic aneurysms, using an endovascular stent graft. (8/5/10)

Support Needed for the Volunteer Healthcare Clinic

Donate your time to the Volunteer Healthcare Clinic, which has been providing high-quality health care to the working poor and those without insurance for more than 40 years. (8/5/10)

Trauma Patients Undergoing Emergency Surgery May Be Able to Receive Transfusions of their own Blood.

Transfusion with a trauma patient’s own blood may offer a cost-effective alternative to transfusion with blood from another individual as a resuscitation method during surgery, according to a University Medical Center Brackenridge study published in the July issue of Archives of Surgery, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. (7/29/10)

Upholding Professional Accountability.

The Texas Medical Board presents "What You Need to Know about Physician Licensure, Discipline and Regulation in Texas," Aug. 3, 6-8 p.m., Seton Family of Hospitals Administration Offices. (7/26/10)

Seton Updates Dietary Orders to Increase Patient Satisfaction.

Fewer, better-prepared menu items - and a choice! That’s what patients will experience starting July 26 when Seton converts more than 40 dietary order sets to just 16 distinct menus. The changes are based on evidence from the American Dietetic Association that says numerous variations on a theme provide no therapeutic benefit. (7/2010)

Imaging Isotope Shortage Enters Critical Phase.

A worldwide shortage of Technetium-99 (Tc-99m), an isotope widely used in cardiac scans and other images, could delay imaging appointments almost until the end of the month. Seton's supplier, Cardinal Health, predicts that normal shipments of isotope will resume July 28. Seton Imaging will work with physicians to optimize patient scheduling and avoid cancellations. (7/16/10)

New Scoliosis Technology Offers Alternative for Complex Spinal Surgery.

Seton Spine & Scoliosis surgeon Dr. Matthew Geck recently performed the first scoliosis correction procedure in Central Texas using the CD Horizon Longitude Multi-Level Percutaneous Fixation System™. (7/12/10)

Breakthrough Hand Procedure Restores Function.

The Hand Center at Seton Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery is now the first in Central Texas to offer a non-surgical treatment for Dupuytren’s contracture. (7/8/10)

New, Easier-to-use COMPASS Online Reference Guide Available.

The guide now supports keyword searches, has been updated to reflect new functionality and includes links to related Seton patient-care policies. (7/2/10)

340B Discount Pricing Takes Effect July 19 at Dell Children's Outpatient Pharmacy.

Only patients whose medical records are controlled by Dell Children’s may use the pharmacy. (6/28/10)

Save the Date: Current Concepts in Neuroscience 2010, Sept. 17, Hyatt Regency Austin.

This symposium is designed for the health care professional who cares for neurology and neurosurgery patients. Its purpose is to review recent advances in the diagnosis, medical and surgical management of neuroscience disorders. Contact Karen Perrone to reserve your spot. (6/25/10)

Seton Neurosurgeon Thrives on Classical Music.

Dr. Robert J. Buchanan, chief of Functional and Restorative Neurosurgery & Neuroscience at Seton’s Brain and Spine Institute, is a big fan of classical music and encourages everyone to attend the Austin Goes Classical Music Festival at the Long Center, June 22-27. A 10 percent discount is available to all Seton professionals. (6/22/10)

Seton Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Plans Open House, June 22.

Tour the new facility, meet the staff and enjoy a wine and cheese reception from 6-8 p.m. at the CEC, Suite 320. Parking validated in CEC garage. (6/17/10)

Dual Console da Vinci Robotic Surgical System Comes to Seton Medical Center Austin.

This latest model da Vinci is the first of its kind in Central Texas and enables two surgeons to operate using the system at the same time. Recently, Dr. Peter Ruff, a surgeon with Urology Austin, spoke with KXAN Austin News about how patients can benefit from this new tool. (6/10/10)

To Disclose or Not to Disclose....

Outcomes can change throughout the duration of a planned intervention or inpatient admission, but these changes always necessitate communication with the patient and/or designee. This message from the Seton Family of Hospitals Network Medical Staff Services, in cooperation with Network Risk Management, details Seton’s disclosure policy and lists resources available to medical staff members. (6/7/10)

Reminder: Trauma and Critical Care Conference June 3-4. Registration Deadline May 26.

The 2010 Austin Trauma & Critical Care Conference offers comprehensive continuing education in the treatment of the seriously injured patient, stressing current guidelines and technology for evaluation, diagnosis and management of trauma. Designated for a maximum of 15 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. The event will be held at the AT&T Executive Education and Conference Center; sessions begin at 7 a.m. both days. Please contact Katie Foarde at kfoarde@seton.org for more information. (5/25/10)

2010 Central Texas Autism Conference Scheduled for June 12 .

Explore the general concept of autism and current developments in diagnosis and treatment through didactic lectures followed with question and answer sessions. (5/20/10)

You’re Invited to an Open House on May 20 at 'Specially for Children’s New Round Rock Offices.

Please join 'Specially for Children as they celebrate the opening of their new location in La Frontera, 100 Hesters Crossing Road, Round Rock. The event will be held on Thursday, May 20, from 6:30-8 p.m. Hors d’oeuvre and refreshments served. Please RSVP to (512) 628-1935 or aattal@sfcaustin.com. (5/17/10)

CEC Hosts Central Texas Clinical Research Forum.

More than 140 faculty members, physicians, nurses, graduate students and other allied health professionals came together May 7 to learn more about advancing clinical research in Central Texas. The event was the Third-Annual Central Texas Clinical Research Forum at the Clinical Education Center at Brackenridge, presented by the Office of Research Administration. (5/13/10)

Texas Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Childhood Obesity Opens Clinic.

Obesity rates among children in the United States are skyrocketing. Today, about 30-40 percent of children are overweight or obese and according to new research, those numbers are only expected to increase.

To help address this growing epidemic, the Texas Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Childhood Obesity at Dell Children's Medical Center of Central Texas, a member of the Seton Family of Hospitals, opened its clinic on Friday, April 23, 2010, at the Specialty Care Clinic located at Dell Children's Medical Center. (5/10/10)

Universal Protocol: Procedural Safety Simplified.

The Seton Family of Hospitals received no findings and plenty of positive comments related to our UPPS processes during the 2009 Joint Commission surveys. Based on this success and in reviewing feedback from physicians and clinical staff, minimal revisions to the current policy were approved in February. Read on for anticipated impacts to provider practice. (5/6/10)

CEC Hosts Central Texas Clinical Research Forum, May 7.

The Clinical Education Center at Brackenridge is proud to host this third-annual forum. Learn more about the research underway throughout Central Texas. Open to faculty, residents, students, physicians, nurses, allied health professionals and staff interested in research. Registration is free - RSVP is appreciated. Parking validation available to all participants. (5/3/10)

Mark Your Calendar: SSW 2010 ‘Goala’ - May 2.

As part of its 10th anniversary celebrations, Seton Southwest is holding its Goala fundraiser with proceeds benefitting the hospital. Festivities begin at 6 p.m. at the Salt Lick Pavilion and feature celebrity athletes, BBQ dinner from Salt Lick, live music, Texas Hold 'em Poker Tournament, Casino games and a silent auction. Individual ticket entrance fee $50, Texas Hold 'em Tournament, $100. (4/30/10)

Makes Plans to Attend the NSide M.D. Networking Event, Wednesday, April 28.

Honoring Seton physicians, this mixer will be held at Maggianos in the Domain from 6-8 p.m. A $10 cover charge will include heavy appetizers, drink specials and door prizes – plus, partial proceeds will benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation. (4/26/10)

You’re Invited to ‘Pairing of the Vines’.

On Saturday, April 24, the Loop 360 Circle of Friends presents an evening of live music by The Loose Wheels with dinner, wine and martinis provided by Sullivan’s Steakhouse at the home of Congressman and Mrs. Michael McCaul. (4/23/10)

UT Baseball Honors Medical Professionals.

The Texas Athletics Department invites all medical professionals/affiliates and guests to its Medical Professional Appreciation Days. If you haven’t seen the 2010 Texas Baseball team in person, now is your chance. Purchase great tickets at a discounted rate. Seats are reserved along the left and right field lines. Offer subject to availability – so the sooner you order, the better your seats will be! (04/19/10)

Earn free CME/CE credits through a new limited-time opportunity provided by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network.

Highlights from two NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology Symposia covering the NCCN Guidelines™ for Breast Cancer and Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer are now accessible via Webcast or CD-ROM. (4/15/10)

Volunteer physicians needed to provide athletic physicals.

The free exams will be given over four nights in April and May to AISD middle school and high school students who have financial restrictions and other barriers to health care. Please sign up ASAP. (04/12/10)

You Are Invited to the 4th-Annual Beverly J. Sutton Golf Classic, April 18.

Tee time for the four-person scramble is 1:30 p.m. at the Live Oak Golf Course at the Lakeway Golf Club. Play for fun and support the Beverly J. Sutton Psychiatric Education Endowment. Please register by April 14. For more information, contact Chris Attal, (512) 324-7326. (4/8/10)

3rd Annual Pediatric Conference on Health & Wellbeing of Central Texas Children April 10.

Dell Children's brings together diverse Central Texas health care professionals at the Seton Administration Office Auditorium (across from the hospital). Highlights will include Karen W. Teel, MD Lectureship followed by concise 25-30 minute topic updates around four themes:

Craniofacial and Dental Issues of Childhood
Pediatric Urology
The Child and Adolescent Athlete
Adolescent Medicine

(3/31/10)

Celebrate National Doctors Day With Us.

Enjoy upgraded catering during the day and watch for our print advertising recognizing our physicians running in all area papers. We plan to put up posters as well. In addition, we've created a series of stickers expressing thanks and appreciation that we will distribute to hospital visitors during the day. The Seton family expresses its heartfelt thanks for area physicians for everything they do to support our patients and our mission in the community. (3/30/10)

Susan Pastor, ND, RN New Chief Nursing Officer for Dell Children’s.

She joins the Seton family from Blair E. Batson Hospital for Children in Jackson Mississippi where she served as Chief Nursing Officer following similar positions in other hospitals. She has extensive experience in pediatrics from her nursing leadership role at Memorial Hermann Children’s Hospital and Texas Children’s Hospital for fifteen years. Susan has served for many years as faculty in various baccalaureate nursing programs and is known for her commitment to the practice of professional nursing, patient safety, high quality clinical care, associate professional development and interdisciplinary team performance. Please welcome Susan. (3/29/10)

Seton HIM Has Tips to Improve Your Transcription Experience.

The need for accurate and quick turnaround of dictated reports is higher than ever. New guidelines can help ensure accurate reports that meet established turnaround goals. If you have questions, contact medical transcription manager Patricia Lang at plang@seton.org. (3/26/10)

Dell Children's Medical Center Lecture in Birth Defects Research Mar. 30.

Join the Section of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Texas at Austin for the Dell Children's Medical Center Lecture Seeking closure: mouse models to study gene-environment interactions and cell behaviors of embryonic neural tube closure. Presenter is Dr. Lee Niswander, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Colorado Health Science Center. 4 p.m. on UT Campus, MBB1.210. For more information, email LNguyen.wlab@gmail.com. (3/25/10)

New Radiology Priority Category Called ASAP Introduced Today.

ASAP will be used for urgent exams except in cases of true emergency when STAT will be used. Radiology personnel will cycle through the EDs today to address questions you may have. You may also contact the PACS help line at x48992 (RIS-PACS-Support@seton.org). (3/24/10)

March of Dimes Launches Third NICU Family Support Program at Dell Children's..

More than 300 families a year will benefit from the support provided by the program assist with dealing with premature birth, a leading cause of newborn death in America. Seton hospitals host two other programs, making Austin the city with the largest number of sites in the country. The project is funded in part by the Topfer Family Foundation in tribute to Bobbi Topfer. (3/23/10)

Seton Featured in TIME Magazine Story.

The cover story for the current issue (cover date March 29, now on newsstands) uses Austin to exemplify the economic value of innovation. On page 4 of the Internet version, Seton is cited as an employer that helps the area workforce upgrade its skills to match market demands through inventions like the Clinical Education Center at Brackenridge. (3/22/10)

New Edition of AJCC Cancer Staging Manual Revises TNM Forms.

Key changes include:

Elimination of MX from the TMN system, the M (metastases) must now be M0 or M1. Clinical and pathologic staging (where applicable) are important: clinical staging as the basis of initial treatment plans and pathological staging as the basis of treatment revisions and outcomes research.
More extensive data requirements for a number of diagnoses including breast, colon and lung cancers. For example, prognostic factors such as tumor genetics have been added.
Revised site specific staging forms for documenting tumor, nodal status, metastasis (TNM) with a new format. The clinical staging check list is on the left side of the form and the pathological staging checklist is the far right column, with the explanation in the middle.

(3/19/10)

Free Seminar on Childhood Obesity at SMCW Mar. 23.

Dr. Enas Pruitt and clinical dietitian Wendy Morgan, RD, LD will address parent questions and concerns. 6 - 8 p.m., GoodHealth Commons, GoodHealth Commons, 301 Seton Pkwy, Ste 203, Round Rock, TX 78665. (3/18/10)

Seton Brain & Spine Institute Creates Adaptive and Wheelchair Sports Program..

Aimed at providing physically challenged youths with sports and fitness opportunities. Activities include wheelchair basketball, floor hockey and indoor wheelchair soccer. Other activities to be offered throughout the year include bowling, swimming, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, water skiing, conditioning, tennis, basketball, football, track and road racing. The events are free and RSVPs are not required. Check the schedule for planned activities on GoodHealth.com. (3/17/10)

Physicians: Please Review Changes in Heparin USP Monograph.

We will have an overlap of products within the Seton Family. Please review the following so that you will be able to differentiate the new heparin products from the old. Be aware of the potency change for the new products and the possible clinical effects of this decrease in potency peer USP unit dose. If you have questions, contact a pharmacy representative. (3/16/10)

Seton Doctors Mark Lee and Mary Beth Cishek on NSIDE Magazine Cover.

Both are profiled inside. Dr. Lee as a pioneer in the research and treatment of epilepsy and Dr. Cishek as a leading cardiologist paving the way for heart patients to survive and thrive. (3/15/10)

Central Texas Clinical Research Forum Abstract Deadline Mar. 26.

If you would like to submit an abstract for the May 7 Forum, please do so quickly. Acceptable submissions include: results of completed research, descriptions of programs, studies in progress, evaluation of innovative educational methods, patient care and clinical best practice. Presenters will be notified by April 7. (3/12/10)

Shave Your Head for St. Baldrick or Support Someone Who Does Mar. 20.

In connection with the Childhood Cancer Fair at Dell Children's, help raise funds for a good cause. Begins at 10 a.m. Come early to enjoy booths and food - then watch the head shaving about noon. Fair will be held in the healing garden outside at the Corner of Sr. Philomena and Lancaster Streets. (3/11/10)

KGSR Music For A Cure Mornings Mar. 15 -19 Benefits Shivers Cancer Center.

Each year during SXSW, this event features live music, interviews, breakfast tacos and coffee at the Four Seasons. Admission is $5. Featured performers include John Hiatt, Bob Schneider and the debut of the Court Yard Hounds, the new band featuring The Dixie Chicks' Emily Robison and Martie Maguire. Check the link for the lineup. For more information, please call (512) 685-8130. (3/10/10)

Ask The Expert--How We Deal with the Issue Is the Issue March 24.

Seton Cove educator Scott Quinn provides insight into dealing with yourself after a diagnosis of diabetes. Free seminar 6:30 - 7 p.m. at 5555 N. Lamar, Bldg. D, Suite 125. Light diabetes-friendly dinner followed by program. Registration required. (3/9/10)

Ignite Boot Camp Starts March 23 at SMCW

This year's program features the 5K training program culminating in a race June 12. It also includes a fitness boot camp led by CHASCO Family YMCA. Improve cardiovascular endurance, strength, agility, coordination and flexibility through drills and sports conditioning in addition to healthy living seminars. (3/8/10)

March Seton Network Notes from Pharmacy & Therapeutics.

Includes discussion of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and human papillomavirus (HPV) plus new network policies approved for treprostinil (Remodulin®) and epoprostenol (Flolan®). (3/5/10)

SMCH Recognized as Kyle's 2009 Large Business of the Year.

The Kyle Chamber of Commerce honored SMCH during an awards celebration honoring the individuals and organizations that have greatly contributed to the chamber over the past year. Other award nominees in the large business category included Target, HEBPlus and Kohl’s. Since opening Oct.1, 2009, SMCH has created more than 400 jobs in the Kyle area. (3/4/10)

Dell Children's to Open Texas Center For the Prevention and Treatment of Childhood Obesity.

Enabled by an approximately $1 million grant from The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, the Center will combine clinical treatment, community engagement and advocacy. Representing a unique collaboration between Dell Children's Medical Center, UT Southwestern - Austin Programs, UT Austin, and the Texas Child Study Center, the Center will seek immediately to impact the childhood obesity epidemic. (3/3/10)

Seton VP Advocacy & Community Relations Ashton G. Cumberbatch Named Garnet F. Coleman 'Eternal Flame' Award Winner.

The honor is awarded annually by the Central Texas African American Family Support Conference to commend the continuous support of Health and Human Services for citizens of Texas. Hosted by Austin Travis Integral Care, CTAAFSC strives to strengthen family and individual awareness of available health care services through culturally sensitive education, supports, and partnerships. Congratulations to Ashton. (3/1/10)

Save the Date: 4th Annual Beverly J. Sutton Golf Classic April 18.

Benefits the AMEP Psychiatry Department. Lakeway Golf Club, Live Oak Golf Course. Tee time 1:30 p.m. For more information, contact Cattal@seton.org or call 512-324-7326. (2/26/10)

Dell Children’s Chief of Psychiatry Dr. William C. Streusand, MD, Named to American College of Psychiatrists.

The prestigious national honorary association includes members who have been recognized for significant contributions to their profession. He is the fourth Austin-area psychiatrist and the first specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry to be named to the organization. (2/25/10)

PACS Results View Screen Changed for GE IDX.

Imaging IT manager Chad Waggoner has created an easy-to-follow explanation about how to access the information, which helps resolve issues being experienced. The changes only impact formatting and location of the screen in PACS and does not affect other applications. If you have questions, please contact the PACS help line at x48992 or RIS-PACS-Support@seton.org. (2/24/10)

Lone Star Circle of Care & Seton Family of Hospitals Open New Clinical Hub in Round Rock.

The multi-service clinical hub is located at the Texas A&M Health Science Center and will provide primary health care and preventive services to approximately 31,000 patients per year. Seton provided a $3.5 million grant to fund equipment, staffing and start-up costs. (2/23/10)

Dr. John Stokes Performs new YESS Procedure.

YESS is a minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve symptoms caused by herniated discs. It uses a new visualization device for the first time at Seton. He explained the procedure to KXAN-TV. (2/22/10)

Dell Children's Blood Drive Feb. 26.

Join us to support area blood supplies. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Respiratory Conference Room, 4E.031. Sign up online or contact jcavitt@seton.org. (2/19/10)

CME-Credited Blood Management and Transfusion Safety Presentation March 1.

Timothy Hannon, MD, MBA, President & CEO, Strategic Healthcare Group LLC and Medical Director, Blood Management Program, St. Vincent's Hospital, Indianapolis presents 12:30 - 1:30 p.m., CEC C1.112. Objectives include defining blood management and the goal of programs; describing the 'storage lesion' for blood products and associated clinical outcomes; current major risks; and constructing a risk-benefit strategy. Suitable for physicians who utilize blod products. Eligible for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s). (2/17/10)

Save the Date: June 3 & 4, Austin Trauma & Critical Care Conference 2010.

AT&T Conference Center. Offers comprehensive continuing education in the treatment of the seriously injured patient, stressing current guidelines and technology for evaluation, diagnosis and management of trauma. Online Registration is now open. If you have questions or requests for more information about attending or exhibiting at this year's event, please contact Katie Foarde at kfoarde@seton.org. (2/15/10)

Dell Children's Benefit at Gumbo's of Westlake Feb. 27.

Tickets are $55 per person, $50 of which goes to Dell Children's. Includes three-course meal with wine pairings, two seatings available. 3600 N. Capital of Texas Hwy. Purchase tickets online. Contact Rita Willoughby at rwilloughby@seton.org. (2/12/10)

Call For Clinical Research Abstracts by March 26.

Submit an abstract for presentation at the May 7 Central Texas Clinical Research Forum 2010. Acceptable topics include: results of completed research, descriptions of programs, studies in progress, evaluation of innovative educational methods, patient care and clinical best practices. Oral or poster presentations. Submission Deadline is March 26. More information online. (2/11/10)

Save the Date: Free 3rd Annual Central Texas Clinical Research Forum May 7.

Researchers, educators and health care providers meet to engage in dialogue and reflect on latest research, educational programs and technology happening in Central Texas. No fee, but registration is required. 8 a.m. - 3 p.m., Clinical Education Center, UMCB. Free parking. (2/10/10)

SMCA Director of Volunteer Services Virginia Kappler to Retire.

She will leave her post at the end of June after 18 years with the Seton Fund, guiding the development of the Junior Volunteer Program, At Your Service and staffing for visitor waiting areas. Please wish Virginia well. (2/9/10)

Free Clinical Research Seminar: "Ethics and Research" Feb. 12.

David Weigle, PhD, MPH will discuss generally accepted reasons to value the ethics of research, describe the content and relevance of the Belmont Report and identify useful sources of guidance for the implementation of ethically appropriate activities. Designed for principal investigators and study coordinators. !2:30 - 1:30 p.m. EDE Room C1.110. Free parking and refreshments. Approved for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. (2/8/10)

New Officers Elected by Catholic Physicians Guild of Central Texas.

Dr. Frank Mazza will serve as President, Dr. David Fleeger as VP, Dr. Moya Griffin as Treasurer and Dr. Cari Henry as Secretary. Outgoing officers include respectively Dr. David Zientek, Dr. Thomas Tucker, Dr. Victor Li-Pelaez and Dr. Simona Scumpia. (2/5/10)

January ConnectED Newsletter Now Online..

This issues contains information about a call for feedback on providing better service, a review of increasing pertussis cases in Travis County, case management in the ED and an introduction to Dell Children's ED docs. (2/4/10)

RIS or IDX Unavailable Overnight Feb. 3 For Maintenance, 2300 - 0500.

No orders from COMPASS or A2K will flow to RIS, meaning exams to be done during that time need to be ordered via your site's downtime process for ordering Radiology exams (includes all plain film, CT, Ultrasound, Nuclear Medicine, Mammo, and Fluoroscopy procedures). For any STAT exams requested during the downtime, call the Imaging department directly. All images will be available in PACS by searching under “All Studies” filtering by patient name and study date. Any results transcribed prior to the downtime will be available in COMPASS unaffected by this outage. (2/2/10)

Annual Pediatric Cardiac Care Conference Feb. 18 - 19.

Presented by Dell Children's and Children's Regional Heart Program, the interdisciplinary conference seeks to expand the knowledge of health care providers in caring for children with congenital heart disease. Focus is on proper care, new trends in management pre & postoperatively and benefits of multidisciplinary care. Thursday, 6 - 9 p.m., Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Sig Auditorium. (2/1/10)

Locally Developed Pediatric Depression Treatment Adopted in Netherlands and Belgium.

UT-Austin educational psychologist Kevin Stark, co-founder of the Texas Child Study Center (TCSC), created the ACTION program, a form of cognitive behavioral therapy that is extremely effective in helping youth manage and overcome depression. The program is now the government sanctioned treatment in both countries. TCSC is a formal collaboration between UT-Austin and the Seton Family of Hospitals. It operates an outpatient mental health clinic for Dell Children's. Congratulations to Dr. Stark. (1/29/10)

Pediatric Conference: Keeping Central Texas Children Well Apr. 10.

Dell Children's hosts third annual conference on health and well-being of children. Highlights include topic presentations on craniofacial and dental issues; pediatric urology; child and adolescent athlete; and adolescent medicine. Discounted registration will be offered to members of the Pediatric Physician Alliance of Central Texas and community preceptors with the University of Texas Southwestern Austin Pediatric Residency Program. Register online and get more details. (1/28/10)

Injury Prevention Team to Open Safety Store at Dell Children's.

It will carry home safety products and educational materials to assist families in creating safer home environments. The store is in the design phase and is part of an initiative by the Level One Trauma Center Program. Further details will be provided as they are confirmed. (1/27/10

The Community Health Coalition of Caldwell County Fights Diabetes.

The coalition is staffed and supported by Seton through in-kind support. It provides comprehensive care coordination for patients and also teaches them how to self-manage their condition. The goal is to reduce emergency room visits among the County's diabetes sufferers who rely on Seton Edgar B. Davis. (1/26/10)

Latest Winter LINK Letter Now Online.

Highlights include introduction of reconstructive plastic surgery center, new dental medicine program, residency and medical student education updates, tips for preparing for pediatric official emergencies and partnering for parents in the NICU. Email comments, questions or ideas to jshen@seton.org. (1/25/10)

Seton Medical Center Hays Delivers 100th Baby.

The delivery of 8-pound Leah Lopez on Jan. 19 by Dr. Jason Bosco allowed the new facility to surpass initial projections for maternity service growth since it opened Oct. 1. (1/22/10)

Dr. John Bertelson Replaces Dr. Darryl Camp as Chief of Neurology.

Dr. Camp moved to Seton Medical Center Hays to establish neurology services for the new hospital. (1/21/10)

19th Annual Mock Surgery Tour Feb. 6 at CEC.

Kid-friendly event includes hands-on demonstrations and mock surgical procedures. It's a free, self-paced program scheduled from 9 a.m. through 3 p.m. Come anytime. Parking is free at the CEC Parking garage, 1400 N. I-35. (1/20/10)

Reminder: 2010 Austin Marathon Medical Volunteers Still Needed. Feb. 14.

If you would like to know more, ask your site Physician Relations representative for a flyer with details. Seton Rehabilitation Services is once again the official medical sponsor for the Sunday races. Physicians, nurses, physical therapists and other support volunteers will staff the medical tent along with the medical mile stations along the course. Physicians interested in joining our group can sign up at the online link in the brochure if they are on a Seton computer or email their interest to Lauren Brandt at lbrandt@seton.org. (1/19/10)

Official Seton Communication Regarding Disruptive Conduct Awareness Sent.

Enhanced patient safety results from reducing disruptive conduct and is recommended by the Joint Commission and other medical leadership organizations. The communication includes a chart with contact information for administration, physician and nursing leadership at each site. Check your email for more information and a password to access Seton Bylaws online. If you did not receive the email and need the password, contact Medical Staff Services at 512.324.3570. (1/14/10)

Official Seton Communication Regarding Disruptive Conduct Awareness Sent.

SMCH Surgeon Dr. Syed Sameer Mohiuddin Publishes Paper About Laparoscopic Assisted Surgery.

Surgical Laparoscopy Endoscopy & Percutaneous Techniques featured his research in its December issue. A retrospective review of all laparoscopic-assisted endoluminal surgeries from 1991 to 2007, it concluded that surgeons are developing fundamental skills and spatial orientation needed to perform safely in the emerging feeld of natural orifice transluminal endoscopy surgery (NOTES), the anticipated progression fo minimally invasive surgery. (1/12/10)

SMCW Hosts Free Glaucoma Screening Jan. 16.

Ophthalmologist Dr. Kalpana Jatla will conduct the screenings at the Learning Center between 8 a.m. and 12 p.m. Ask patients to call 512-324-4086 to schedule a slot or contact kmdye@seton.org. (1/11/10)

Ask the Expert: Exercise and Diabetes: Moving to Health Seminar in 2010 Scheduled Jan. 20. .

Free, but registration required. Useful for referring patients with diabetes who need to begin an exercise program. Hosted by Seton Diabetes Education Program. 6:30 - 8 p.m., Seton Diabetes Education Center. 5555 N. Lamar, Bldg. D, Ste 119. (1/8/10)

New Medical Staff Leadership Announced For 2010.

Dr. Sam Roberts will serve as the new President of the Medical Staff and Dr. Andrew Reifsnyder will be President-Elect. New chiefs include Dr. Karen Swenson (SMCA), Dr. Steve Wilson (UMCB), Dr. John Bedolla (SNW) and Dr. Chad Dieterichs (SMCW). (1/5/10)

Research Design and Development Seminar Jan. 8.

Physicians, residents, principal investigators, study coordinators and others interested in clinical research are invited to attend free seminar providing information about methods of study, advantages and disadvantages of each method and concept and purpose in appropriate study design. Physicians may received a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. (1/4/10)