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WCA NewsLink - December/January 2007 Issue

A MESSAGE FROM BETSY T. WRIGHTPRESIDENT and CEO

WCA ANNOUNCES NEW BOARD MEMBERS

The WCA Hospital Board ofDirectors recently appointed threenew members: James Campion,M.D., Mrs. Brenda Ireland, andRonald Klizek, M.D.

“WCA is extremely fortunate to havethese outstanding individuals serve on ourBoard,” said Betsy T. Wright, WCAHospital President and CEO. “They bringa broad range of talent and experience toan already exceptional Board. We lookforward to their service and leadership.”

“I know I speak for the rest of theBoard in saying how much we lookforward to working with these exceptionalleaders,” said Barbara Bumsted, Chair,WCA Hospital Board. “We believe theirknowledge of the healthcare industrycoupled with their years of businessexperience will be invaluable in helpingus to successfully guide WCA Hospitalinto the future.”

James P. Campion, M.D., specializesin Gastroenterology. He is a native ofJamestown, returning to the area with hiswife, Dr. Virginia Campion, a localpediatrician. He serves on the board asthe President Elect of the WCA MedicalStaff.

A graduate of the State University ofNew York at Buffalo School of Medicineand Biomedical Sciences, he completed

his residency at Johns Hopkins BayviewMedical Center in Baltimore, Maryland.He is certified by the American Boardof Internal Medicine. Dr. Campion livesin Jamestown with his wife and threechildren.

Mrs. Brenda Ireland began herassociation with WCA Hospital as aCandy Striper when she was 16 yearsold. She went on to pursue a career innursing, graduating from AlfredUniversity Nursing Program with aBachelor of Science Degree. Aftercollege, she returned to the Panama areawhere her family owned and operatedthe J. Edwards Insurance Agency. Shewas employed at WCA for several yearsas a staff registered nurse andOccupational Health Nurse beforeearning a license as a Property andCasualty Insurance Agent. She hasserved as the Town Clerk for Harmonyfor 11 years and is the present owner ofJ. Edwards Insurance Agency. Mrs.Ireland lives in Panama with herhusband, Jeff, and three children.

Dr. Ronald Klizek, M.D., BoardCertified Radiologist, began his careerat WCA Hospital in May of 1982. Dr.Klizek is a native of western New York,growing up in the Niagara Falls area.He received his undergraduate degree

from Niagara University and contin-ued his medical degree and residencyat the State University of New York,Upstate Medical University at Syra-cuse. Dr. Klizek is board certified inDiagnostic Radiology with specialcompetence in Nuclear Medicine bythe American Board of Radiology. Hehas held several leadership positionsat WCA Hospital including Chairmanof the Department of Radiology andPresident of the WCA Medical Staffin 2004 and 2005. He resides in Lake-wood with is wife, Denise, who is anactive member with the W.C.A. Aux-iliary, and two children.

WCA Hospital board officers andmembers for the 2006 and 2007 yearare: Mrs. Barbara S. Bumsted, Chair;Mrs. Wendy D. O’Connor, Vice Chair;Mrs. Sheila McCarthy-Webster, Sec-retary; Mr. John R. Churchill, Trea-surer; Mrs. Judith Burgett, AssistantTreasurer; Mr. Timothy Black, Mrs.Mickey Brown, Dr. James Campion,Dr. George W. Conner, Ms. CarlaHowie, Mr. Howard T. Howlett, Jr.,Mrs. Brenda Ireland, Mr. StevenKilburn, Dr. Wolf-Dieter Krahn, Mr.Michael P. Sullivan, Mr. HadleyWeinberg, Mrs. Diane T. Wellman,Mrs. Betsy T. Wright.

James Campion, M.D. Mrs. Brenda Ireland Ronald Klizek, M.D.

Dear Friends,

As we embark on an exciting journey into the New Year, I would like to take this opportunityto send along a special thank you and reflect on the tremendous success we’ve had throughout2006. I am pleased to share some of our recent accomplishments:

We’ve maintained the gold standard in quality.Ø Completed successful surveys from both the Joint Commission on

Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) and the AmericanCollege of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer with Commendation.

Ø Began Hospitalist program for enhanced inpatient continuity of care.

We’ve enhanced access to care.Ø Opened the Lakewood Health Center and Outpatient Laboratory in AugustØ Expanded hours at the Sinclairville Health CenterØ Expanded hours in the Catheterization Lab

We’ve invested in new medical technology.Ø Added PET/CT scanner for cancer staging and diagnosisØ Enhanced our mammography program by adding Computer Aided Detection

(CAD)Ø Made radiology images available to physicians in their offices and in other

key locations by creating a network called the Picture Archiving andCommunication System (PACS).

We’ve updated and renovated our facilities.Ø completed the last of six surgery suite renovations, including state of the art

equipment, as part of our capital campaign projectØ introduced new minimally invasive surgical procedures that enhance our

patient care and experience.

While these accomplishments are only a snap shot of our successes, they offer a glimpseof the many enhancements and technological advances that make WCA a recognizedhealthcare leader in the nation and the region.

As we look ahead to the future, we will continue to reinvest and re-evaluate our servicesto meet the growing needs of our community. The progress we have achieved in 2006 andour future growth would not be possible without the dedication and commitment of our boardmembers, physicians, employees and many volunteers, as well as, our generous andsupportive community. I extend my sincere thanks and best wishes to everyone for a happy,healthy and safe holiday season.

Please join me in congratulating our most recent employees of the month: Dianne French,Director of H.I.M. and Carol Anderson, Senior Staff Nurse on 3B.

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Donate Blood & EnterTo Win an iPodDuring the holiday season, thereis a critical need for blood. Whenyou donate blood at the nextCommunity Blood Bankbloodmobile drive on December11th, Noon - 5 p.m. or December12th, 7 a.m. - Noon, in the WCAAud., you will be entered to winan Apple iPod Nano. Public iswelcome to donate.

National Hand WashingAwareness WeekDecember 3rd - 9th. One of thebest ways to stay healthy andavoid the spread of germs is bywashing your hands. Wash yourhands when dirty and beforeeating; do not cough or sneeze intoyour hands; keep your fingersaway from your eyes, mouth andnose.

Uniform Sale @ WCAThe W.C.A. Auxiliary issponsoring a Uniform Sale,Thursday, January 25th andFriday, January 26th, WCA Aud.All proceeds benefit WCA.

Get Your Flu ShotFlu shots are available for all WCAmedical staff, employees, andvolunteers. Call the WCAHospital Occupational HealthDepartment at (716) 664-8165.Call ahead for an appointment.

Accepting New PatientsThe new Lakewood HealthCenter, providing medical care forchildren, adolescents and adults,is open Tuesdays & Fridays, 9a.m.- 5 p.m. To schedule anappointment, call (716) 763-8542.

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FAST FACTS“The quality of surgical care at WCA is

excellent,” said Matthew Chang, M.D.board certified surgeon and Chairman forthe Department of Surgery at WCA.“We’ve upgraded our program to state-of-the-art tech-nology for ev-ery specialty.We provide thebest surgicalcare and excel-lent continuityof care for ourpatients, with-out them everleaving thearea.”

W C A ’ si n n o v a t i v esurgical program helps us recruit young,talented and experienced physicians, aswell as, highly skilled staff, and patientsseeking remarkable care. Patients travelfrom all over the region to receive carefrom WCA’s team of high caliber surgeons,who have performed over 6,500 surgeriesthis year alone. They choose WCA for ourtrusted professionals, the reassurance ofcutting edge technology, and the innovativecare today’s patients have come to expect.

Designed with the Patient in MindDuring the planning and implementation

phases, physicians and staff offered theirideas to improve timeliness and enhancethe patient experience. “We paid attentionto the little details,” said Irene Young, MSN,Director of Perioperative Services. “Forexample, we designed a customizeddecorative ceiling to create a pleasant andcalming atmosphere for our patients beforetheir operation begins. We take special careof our younger patients, too. Parents areonly a few steps away, which reduces achild’s anxiety. We deliver an extra-special

touch by personally transferring ouryounger patients to the operating roomin a bright red wagon. They love it!”

“I’m delighted with the team approachto the OR design,” adds Ellen Weinberg,M.D., Otorhinolaryngology (ENT) Sur-geon on staff at WCA. “The needs ofpatients and staff were prime concerns

in the planningprocess. Thec o m p l e t e dsuite is a won-derful, spa-cious, bright,a n d w e l l -e q u i p p e dspace. It en-hances our ef-ficiency anddecreases thewaiting timefor our pa-

tients. We are also pleased with the newequipment,” she added. “Such as ournewly installed nerve monitoring systemthat enhances patient care by protectingthe facial and voice box nerves.”

The largest of the hospital’s six oper-ating rooms, a spacious 470 square footsuite, is the last in a series of renova-tions. It is outfitted with the most up-to-date equipment; twin surgery lights withmonitors; and a PACS system that deliv-ers x-ray results at the touch of a button.

The additional suite improves flexibil-ity for scheduling thousands of procedureseach year. “It has benefits for the physi-cians and staff, but most importantly pa-tients can plan for surgery around theirbusy family life,” Irene said.

WCA’s all new urology suite openedin 2004. “We’ve had wonderful successwith this suite,” she continued. “It is alsoequipped with the latest in digital tech-nology and diagnostic imaging. We trulyhave it all right here. From tonsillecto-mies to intricate brain surgery, our surgi-cal program is well prepared to serve ourpatients into the 21st century.”

Leading The Way In InnovationSurgical innovations, such as minimally invasive laparoscopic

techniques, can be accomplished through smaller incisions andoffer tremendous benefits to our patients. We have highlightedjust a few of the most recent advances.

“Minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery is a highly tech-nical, less-invasive approach to traditional surgery,” added Dr.Chang. “In the past, a patient with a colon resection would bein the hospital for fiveto seven days. Now,these patients returnhome in just two tothree days.”

WCA has thebusiest orthopedicprogram in westernNew York and hasreceived nationalrecognition for itsquality outcomes.Orthopedic surgeonson staff are leadingthe way in newinnovative techniquesfor both minimallyinvasive hip surgeryand what is called theuni-knee or partialreplacement of theknee with aspecialized prosthesis.They have joined anelite group ofphysicians nationwidewho are trained toperform the new procedures.

Dr. Ichabod Jung, urologist on staff at WCA performedthe first laparoscopic removal of a kidney (nephrectomy) insouthwestern New York. Once again, this new method forremoval of a kidney allows for a very small incision comparedto an incision of ten to twelve inches.

SurgeryFrom Page 1

Thoracoscopy is a technique that uses a miniature videocamera and a few specific instruments to perform chest sur-gery that results in several small incisions and minimal tissuedisruption. Dr. David DiMarco, a board certified thoracic sur-geon on staff at WCA, performs lung surgery using thistechnique.“Traditional lung surgery requires the chest to beopened,” said Dr. DiMarco. “Which is very painful and canhave numerous complications. Thoracoscopy is equivalent tolaparoscopy for abdominal surgery.”

From neurosurgery to obstetrics, WCA physicians andstaff are dedicated to staying up-to-date on new proceduresand innovations, so they can continue to bring the most ad-vanced procedures to the people of this community.

The People You Know . . . The Professionals You TrustIt’ s not only the modern facility and equipment that make

WCA a leader in surgical care; it’s the people. Recognizedby a national research firm, as a leader in patient satisfaction,WCA’s Ambulatory Surgery Program has ranked in the top10% - 20% of programs across the nation.

“We have a top-notch staff,” said Irene. “Most of themhave been with us for a long time and they care deeply abouttheir jobs and their patients. They work collaboratively withthe physicians assuring that our patients receive the finesthealthcare possible at a level of surgical precision that onlycomes from special training and experience.”

Revolutionizing Surgical Care with Community SupportSurgical renovations and equipment upgrades were

identified as key areas targeted to benefit from WCA’s mostrecent capital campaign.

“As a result of tremendous community support, we havebeen able to accomplish a huge project in a very short time,and without disrupting patient care,” Irene says with a smile.“We now have all six state-of-the-art surgical suites completedand being scheduled.”

Dr. Chang was quick to offer his sincere thank you, aswell. “Our community really came together to give theirsupport and contribute money so we can continue to offer asurgical program that stands among the best in the region.”

Pictured lt. to rt.: Lori Dziduch, AmbulatorySurgery Center Nurse, wheels Pediatric Patient,Jessica, to the operating room in a bright redwagon, while Jessica’s mom keeps a close watch.Young patients are transferred from ASC to theoperating room in a red wagon to help reduce achild’s anxiety.

Pictured lt. to rt: Dr. Kevin Przybyla; Dr. Ellen Weinberg; Jan Sweet,Operating Room Technician perform an operation in the new, state-of-the-art operating room suite.

On The Cutting Edge of Surgery (cont.)

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Community BenefitFrom Page 1

Not-for-profit hospitals are distinguished by certain charitableobligations. Being a leader in a community doesn’t come by simplyproviding a valuable service. WCA also delivers exceptional care bymaking significant charitable contributions to improve the health careof the community.

According to Kevin Lofton, chairman-elect of the American HospitalAssociation (AHA) Board of Trustees, “America’s hospitals are thebackbone of the communities they serve. And they are effective in thisrole for one key reason: they are free totailor their services to the unique needsof their communities.”WCA Serves As A Safety Net

WCA provided more than $104.5million in uncompensated care to coverthe costs of government discounts andpeople who did not or could not pay theirbills. With over 61,000 patient visits in2005, the WCA Primary Care HealthCenters and Emergency Departmentserve as a safety net for our community.They offer health care to anyone, nomatter what their ability to pay. Inaddition, WCA contributed more than$209,000 to the community for recruitingnew physicians; health promotion anddisease prevention through ourcommunity outreach Wellness Program;schools of education in MedicalTechnology and Radiologic Technology;and a Speakers’ Bureau.A $52 Million Economic Engine

In addition to serving as a safety net, WCA is the second largestemployer in Chautauqua County and a prime driver of local key jobs.In 2005, WCA pumped $52 million into the local economy for goodsand services and supported 1,300 jobs that funded more than $3 milliondollars in state and local taxes.

“While our primary mission is to provide the highest quality healthcareto the community, less often recognized is the hospital’s contributionto the local economy,” said Betsy. “As well as being essential healthcare providers in our region, employees are important as consumers,investors and taxpayers.”Emergency Preparedness

Furthermore, WCA is recognized as a leader in emergencypreparedness. Disaster drills are conducted year round in collaborationwith local, state and federal agencies to ensure that WCA is preparedfor any disaster. The Emergency Preparedness Committee regularlytests the hospital’s response skills. The hospital also works with theCounty Emergency Management System and city agencies includingthe police and fire departments to coordinate a planned response in theevent of a real disaster.

Meeting Community Need – Now & Into The FutureAt WCA, we not only serve the community through charitable

contributions and obligations, but also reach out and work withothers to benefit and strengthen the quality of life. We continuouslyevaluate community health needs based on lifestyle, health habitsand chronic disease patterns. We play an important role in makingsure people have access to the healthcare services they need.

Throughout the year, free andlow cost screenings were madeavailable to the public. An activeSpeakers’ Bureau provided forWCA experts to present healthinformation to school children,work-sites and communitygroups.

In keeping with our mission,WCA promotes education andoutreach programs related toprevention, diagnosis andtreatment of disease. Toward thatend in 2005, many programs werecollaborations with community-based organizations such as:• Local Support Groups• Partners For Prevention• Susan G. Komen Breast

Cancer Foundation, Inc.• Joint Neighborhood Project• Chautauqua County Tobacco

Control Coalition• Chautauqua County Health Network• Southern Tier Healthcare System• STEPS To A Healthier NY

Members of WCA’s staff and medical staff contributed hundredsof hours last year as active volunteers on boards and committees,from the Chamber of Commerce and United Way, to supportinghealth initiatives at local colleges and universities. In 2005, theWCA Employee Care and Share Fund donated nearly $30,000 tolocal agencies that needed our support.Award Winning Care In The 21st Century

As WCA enters the 21st century, its fundamental mission remainsmuch the same as when it was founded over 120 years ago – toimprove the health and well-being of those we serve with acommitment to quality and a vision for the future.

“We believe that if we are going to improve the health status ofour community, we have to truly understand their needs,” remarksBetsy. “We do that by going beyond our walls and spending time inthe heart of the communities we serve. With that same innovativespirit, WCA will continue to secure accessible, quality healthcarefor this region into the 21st Century.”

“If you really want to understand what makesthe U.S. economy tick these days, don’t go toSilicon Valley, Wall Street, or Washington. Justtake a short trip to your local hospital. Parkwhere you don’t block the ambulances, andwatch the unending flow of doctors, nurses,technicians, and support personnel. You’ll havea front-row seat at the health-care economy. Thehealthcare business is booming in the UnitedStates with bigger and better hospitals, medicalbreakthroughs and dramatic growth inpharmaceuticals. Since 2001, the health-careindustry has added 1.7 million jobs.”

-“What’s Really Propping Up The Economy.”

Business Week. 25 September. 2006: Cover Story+

LAKEWOOD HEALTH CENTER HOLDSCEREMONIAL RIBBON CUTTINGWCA recently cut

the ribbon on thenew LakewoodHealth Center &Outpatient Labora-tory, opening its fifthprimary care centerin the southern tierregion. The new lo-cation is located on110 Mall Boulevardin Lakewood, NewYork. The Centeroffers ample parkingand provides com-prehensive, individu-alized medical carefor children, adoles-cents and adults.

“We are building astrong medical community for the future that is responsive to the needs ofthose we serve,” said Betsy T. Wright, WCA President and CEO. “Thiscenter is one of many initiatives we have identified to expand primarycare. We believe that one of the most important aspects of a long, healthylife is having regular check-ups with a trusted health care provider -someone who knows your personal medical history and who assists incoordinating your health care. Early detection, as well as, propermanagement of disease lead to better outcomes for our patients and abetter quality of life, which is central to our mission.”

“This is an exciting time for us,” said Albert Persia, M.D., board certifiedin family practice and Associate Medical Director of the WCA PrimaryCare Centers. “As we look forward to the opening of the Center, ourlong-term goal is to increase access to meet the growing needs of ourpatients while offering the latest and best services and treatment that arepatient and family-centered.”

“The community response to the new Center has been tremendous,”adds Mrs. Wright. “We have received numerous requests to expand thehours of service. As with all our programs, we will continue to assess theneed and expand hours of service as indicated. We are hearing many positivecomments about the convenience, the friendly and professional staff, andthe calm, pleasing atmosphere.”

The Outpatient Laboratory is open from Monday through Friday, 7a.m.- Noon and is available to anyone with a written order from aphysician. No appointment is necessary. The physician office atLakewood Health Center is open Tuesdays and Fridays, 9 a.m. – 5p.m. To schedule an appointment with the physician, call 763-8542.

Photo lt. to rt.: Larry Senn, WCA Vice President of Administration; PeterDawson, Chaplain Lakewood Fire Department; Betsy T. Wright, WCA Presidentand CEO; Albert Persia, M.D.,Lakewood Health Center (LHC) Family PracticePhysician; Ruth Wassman, LHC R.N., Lynn Wigren, Practice Manager PrimaryCare Centers; Sandy Gustafson, LHC R.N.; Susan Carnahan, WCA PhlebotomyTechnician; Kathy Lundmark, LHC Registrar; Rhonda Blakeslee, LHC OfficeAssociate; Jackie Peterson, LHC Physician Assistant.

W.C.A. FOUNDATIONSETS DONATION

DAYS APPEAL

Each year around the Thanksgiving holiday,members of the W.C.A. Foundation reach out tothe community for their continued and generoussupport. “Donations to the foundation are usedto assist WCA Hospital in fulfilling its missionof caring,” said Sheila Eaglesome, Chair of theBoard of Directors. “Ultimately, the donationsgo right back to help people in our communitywith health care needs.”

The three main areas supported by theFoundation are:

Starflight – Emergency Air MedicalProgram Since 1986, the W.C.A. Foundationhas lent its support, along with WCAHospital, the Sheldon Foundation and theChautauqua County Sheriff’s Department, tosaving lives by providing medivac services tothousands of victims of traumatic injury andserious illness.

Cancer Care Program Jamestown isfortunate to have high quality cancer care closeto home. WCA’s award winning program isapproved by the American College of SurgeonsCommission on Cancer, which evaluatesoverall quality and comprehensive care.

Dialysis Program WCA Hospital currentlyserves over 110 dialysis patients. Growing tomeet community need, the program runs threeshifts a day, at fourteen individual stations.The Dialysis Program has received nationalrecognition for providing high quality care.Many lives in this community have beenimproved and extended by dialysis.

Donations are also designated for variousother funds that allow for flexibility when specialrequests come through the Foundation. “Thanksto our generous community, this past year theFoundation granted over $426,000 to WCAHospital for Starflight, equipment and stafftraining,” said Mrs. Eaglesome. “These effortsassist WCA in providing leading edge services,with the most highly skilled professionals.”

Tax-deductible donations are gratefullyaccepted in writing at P. O. Box 214, Jamestown,NY, 14702 or by calling the Foundation office at(716) 664-5461.

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THE PEOPLE YOU KNOW . . .THE PROFESSIONALS YOU TRUSTWCA Announces Distinguished Employees of the Month

Congratulations Dianne French Congratulations Carol Anderson

It’ s in the details. That’s where you’ll find Dianne French,Director of Health Information Management (H.I.M.), andWCA’s October Employee of the Month. She lives eachworkday attending to details. “In HIM, we understand howimportant the patient’s medical information is,” says Dianne.“Our work impacts patient care and safety, so the details arevery important – whether we’re filing a record, transcribingdictation or coding for reimbursement, it all matters.”

Dianne’s passion for her work and compassion for her team,matter too. After thirty years at WCA, she continues to beenthusiastic about her work. “I stay excited by looking to thefuture and where we want to be,” she added. “We have highexpectations in our department and I’m part of a team thatworks hard to reach our goals.”

By reading the many nominations from her peers and thoseshe supervises, it’s obvious that her leadership skills are righton target. “She clearly has an impact on those around her,”said Chuck Iverson, Vice President of Finance. “She makesthe best of every situation and goes out of her way to helpothers and do the right things.”

She does the right things for herself, as well. It’s notuncommon to find Dianne out walking to maintain her own“health record.” She wears her WCA gear with great pride.“I feel good about being a part of the WCA Family,” she saidwith a smile. “When I wear my WCA T-shirts, I’m like awalking billboard!” Her dedication is deeply appreciated.Congratulations Dianne!

“I work with the best people in the world!” says CarolAnderson, Senior Staff Nurse on 3B, and November’sEmployee of the Month. Carol has been with WCAfor 31 years and has not lost her passion for giving “oldfashioned, high quality” nursing care. She is a teacher, amentor and an advocate for her coworkers and patients.She has played an important role in creating WCA’sreputation for having the most caring and compassionatenurses.

Pam Meurer, Nurse Manager for 3B and Dialysis praisedCarol for her values and work ethic. “She is the epitome ofa nurse,” Pam told members of Management Team. Carolhas all the positive attributes of a Senior Staff Nurse, aswell. “She is always so helpful and pitches in wheneverand wherever needed,” added Pam. “She is extremelyknowledgeable and is a wonderful resource for others.”

Carol also has a delightful sense of humor. She came towork the day of her surprise recognition thinking she wasgoing to be visited by an old high school friend – a storyfabricated by her sister Candy Kidder, Chief RadiologyTechnician. She was greeted by family and co-workerswho appreciate all that she does for her fellow employees,patients, and their loved ones.

Congratulations Carol! Thank you for taking such goodcare of our patients. It’s no surprise that you were chosenas Employee of the Month!

WCA LAUNCHESFIRE INTERVENTION PROGRAMHospital Based Project First-Of-Its-Kind In Chautauqua County

The WCA Hospital Psychology Department team, inconjunction with area agencies and other communitypartners, recently initiated a Fire Intervention RehabilitationEvaluation (F.I.R.E.) Program, a hospital-based program aimedat saving lives by raising aware-ness of the dangers posed byjuvenile fire-setters. The projectwas made available throughgrants from the Federal Emer-gency Management AgencyU.S. Fire Administration (FEMAU.S.F.A.) and the ChautauquaRegion Community Foundation.

“We would not be introduc-ing this valuable program todaywithout your collaboration,”said Larry S. Senn, WCA VicePresident of Administration, ata recent news conference.“This project is a testament ofeveryone coming together for acommon cause. We plan to ad-dress early identification and de-velop more advanced treatmentapproaches for juveniles whoare at risk for fire-setting. Toeveryone who participated inthe planning and implementa-tion of this program, I want tosay thank you.”

The Fire Intervention and Rehabilitation Evaluation Programwas initiated by the WCA Hospital Psychology Department andcollaborates with various agencies and individuals throughoutthe county, including schools and physician offices. The majorimportance of this project is that it provides services to youthwho are lighting fires.FBI statistics reportthat over 50% of all ar-son arrests are youths.A growing number ofarson fires are set byyouths under the ageof 10.

“The purpose of this program is to save lives,” said Frederick Verdonik,Ph.D. Clinical Psychologist, WCA F.I.R.E. Program Director. “Ourfocus is to identify youth at risk and to increase education and mentalhealth intervention available to juvenile fire-setters. The ultimate goal

is to offer a continuum of carefor juveniles at risk bynetworking with key agencies inthe community. Our programcovers prevention, earlydetection, crisis management,treatment, and follow-up care.” Connected to the project willbe a web-based internet site,www.wcaheat.com. H.E.A.T.(Help Eliminate Arson Terror),provides students, parents andprofessionals with on-line 24/7access to a Chautauqua Countyweb site. The site, developedand designed by students fromthe Maple Grove Jr-Sr HighSchool’s Web DesignApplication Computer Class, willgo live in late November of 2006.The informational site willinclude tips on the managementof different types of fire-setters,referral resources for theevaluation and treatment of fire-

setters and a means for juveniles and adults to gain knowledge ofChautauqua County fire safety resources and about types of fire setters.The F.I.R.E. Program hospital-based staff includes: Frederick Verdonik,Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist; Thom Brunner, M.A., Clinical Specialist;Kari Swanson, M.A., Clinical Specialist; Marty Strom and DonnaJohnson, support staff.

For more informationabout the F.I.R.E. Programor to refer a child, pleasecontact the WCA HospitalPsychology Department at(716) 664-8556.

“There are things in life that are preventable. Juvenile fire-settingcases are preventable.”

-Frederick Verdonik, Ph.D.- WCA Director of Psychology Services

Pictured lt. to rt: Betsy Wright, CAROL, Pamela Meurer.

Photo Caption: Connected to the F.I.R.E. Program will be a web-based internet site,www.wcaheat.com. The site was developed and designed by students from MapleGrove Jr-Sr High School Web Design Application Computer Class who are pictured(lt. to rt): Karli, Alexandria, Tyler, Spencer; Benjamin and Emma who created severalchild safety projects. Second row: Dr. Frederick Verdonik, WCA F.I.R.E. ProgramDirector; Dustin, B.O.C.E.S. Hewes Educational Center, who is designing fire andschool safety boards for the program; Beck, Eric, Brian, Cody, and Scott Cummings,Maple Grove Jr-Sr High School Teacher.

Pictured lt. to rt: Betsy Wright, DIANNE, Charles Iverson.

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When EverySecond Counts

WCA NEWSLink - December/January 2007 Issue

Starflight Celebrates 20 Yearsof Emergnecy Service

Diabetes Showcase FeaturedMotivational Speaker and Interactive Learning

Visit Us On The Web . . . www.wcahospital.org

While at work driving truck, Tom developed pain in his chest. He

was brought by local ambulance to WCA Hospital where he was

diagnosed as having a heart attack. He was also in need of urgent

surgery to insert a stent – a device to hold open a blocked artery in

his heart. Time being of the essence, Starflight quickly flew Tom to

Erie, where he underwent emergency surgery and has since made a

full recovery.

This year, Starflight celebrates 20 years of saving lives when every

second counts. An emergency medical helicopter service, Starflight is

available around the clock to transport critically ill or injured patients for

emergency care.

The Sheldon Hall was the gathering place for members of the Starflight

family who presented awards to supporters who have made this vital

program possible for the past 20 years. Howard T. Howlett Jr., Starflight

Chairman, and Betsy Wright, Starflight President, along with Sheriff Joseph

Gerace presented awards to Murray S. Marsh; the John R. Bentley

Family; Mrs. Ralph C. Sheldon; Sheila Eaglesome, W.C.A. Foundation

Chairman; Diane Wellman, W.C.A. Services Corporation Chair; and State

Senator, Catharine Young.

“Our mission is to meet the healthcare needs of this community,” said

Betsy Wright, WCA President and CEO. “We feel strongly that the

location of Starflight and its quick response time are critical to maintaining

excellence in emergency services in this county. I want to extend thanks

to everyone for their support of this life-saving program.”

“We continue to see an increase demand for our services each year,”

added Howard Howlett, Jr. “This year alone, we have responded to

dozens of requests that came from neighboring air medical programs.

Starflight’s base at WCA Hospital is within a fifteen minute flight time to

any location in Chautauqua County.”

Murray Marsh, past CEO of WCA, spear-headed the program in

the fall of 1985 with then Chautauqua County Sheriff John R. Bentley.We send along a special thanks to W.C.A. Foundation for their continuedfinanical support of Starflight.

Award recipient, Murray S. Marsh (lt.) acceptsthanks from Sheriff Joseph Gerace.

Starflight Medical Team participates in the20th Year Starflight celebration held at Sheldon Hall.

Long time supporter, Betty Sheldon, (2nd from lt.) gathers withmembers of the Starflight Team.

With a goal of improving community health, WCAtook the lead in organizing an event to help those withdiabetes manage their disease. A crowd of close to 200people enjoyed an evening of learning, fun and activitiesduring the Diabetes Showcase, held on November 9th inthe Jamestown Community College (JCC) Physical Edu-cation Complex. The WCA Diabetes Education programholds an event every November in recognition of Na-tional Diabetes Awareness Month. Organizers includedWCA, JCC. Steps to a HealthierNY, the ChautauquaCounty Health Network and the Southern Tier Healthcare

System. Wolf-Dieter Krahn, M.D. WCA Medical Staff President andmedical director for the WCA Diabetes Educational Program wel-comed the audience and was on hand to answer questions. Dr. Rob-ert Buynak, renowned author and motivational speaker presented anupbeat program called “Lifestyle Changes to Change Your Life”.

“We were delighted with the attendance,” said Jackie Carlson, reg-istered dietitianand certifieddiabetes edu-cator on staffat WCA Hos-pital. “Eachyear we have seen our attendance grow for this event. We changedthe location to accommodate more people and we’ve enhanced thedisplays and screenings. JCC has been extremely helpful and a won-derful partner.”

“This is a perfect time of year to help people focus on a healthydiet and lifestyle as we enter the holiday season,” Jackie added. “Wehighlighted the newest technology, latest medications and exciting tipsfor managing diabetes. Because diabetes is a lifetime concern, our

goal was to have some fun and get folks energized and motivated.”Dr. Buynak’s presentation offered a straightforward explanation of diabetes basics and provided a wealth of specific

practical guidelines and tips for the person with diabetes. “Education is what diabetes is all about,” says Kathleen Krieg, RNand certified diabetes educator on staff at WCA. “We feel strongly that education empowers people to take care of themselves.We hope everyone who attended learned a little, and will continue to practice healthy habits for a lifetime.“

Students in the JCC Nursing Program were on hand to screen blood pressures and educate the public on the properdisposal of sharps and the importance of foot care. Surveys completed at the end of the evening reinforced the enhancedquality of the program, the interactive vendor displays and the motivational speaker.

Dr. Robert Buynak, renowned Author and MotivationalSpeaker (seated) signs books for diabetes participants.

Pictured lt. to rt.: Diabetes Showcase Coordinators: Donna Kahm,Chief Operating Officer Southern Tier Health Care System, Inc.,Jacqueline Carlson, WCA Diabetes Educator; Tory Peterson, Stepsto a HealthierNY Coordinator; Robert Buynak, M.D., author, Dr.Buynak’s 1-2-3 Diabetes Diet; Janet Clark, Chautauqua County HealthNetwork Program Manager; Kathleen Krieg, WCA Diabetes Educator.

Participants visit with vendors during the Diabetes Showcase who discussed the latestinformation and available technology for those diagnosed with diabetes.

December 1st - 14th Women’s Health Show“Update on Nicotine Replacement Therapy”Guest Speaker: Debbie Caruso, WCA Hospital PharmacistTime Warner, Channel 8, 8 p.m., weeknights

January 1st - 14th Women’s Health Show“Flu Update”Guest Speaker: Michael Mitchell, M.D.Time Warner, Channel 8, 8 p.m., weeknights

November 17th Employee Craft ShowWCA Hospital Auditorium, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.Shop Early For The Holiday Season! Public Welcome

November 30th Books Are Fun Sale ~ *Sponsored By the W.C.A. AuxiliaryWCA Hospital Lobby, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.Great gifts for kids, friends, and family.

December 15th WCA Holiday Tea ~ “The Spirit of Giving”Hosted by the WCA Finance DepartmentWCA & JMHC Auditoriums, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.

December 14th & 15thFudgie Wudgie Sale ~ *Sponsored by the W.C.A. AuxiliaryWCA Hospital Lobby, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

January 25 & 26th Empire Uniform Sale ~ *Sponsored by the W.C.A. AuxiliaryWCA Hospital Auditorium.*All proceeds benefit WCA Hospital

WCA HOSPITALP O Box 840Jamestown, NY 14702-0840RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

Non-Profit OrganizationU.S. Postage Paid

Jamestown, NYPermit No. 601

Jamestown Family Health Center ~ 664-8630Lakewood Health Center ~ 763-8542Panama Health Center ~ 782-2625Randolph Health Center ~ 358-2015Sinclairville Health Center ~ 962-2332

The People You Know . . . The Professionals You Trust

YOUR NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED HOSPITAL

www.wcahospital.org

For questions, comments,story ideas, or additionalcopies of publication,contact Linda Johnson at(716) 664-8614, orLinda.Johnson@wcahospital.org

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DECEMBER/JANUARY 2007

Calendar Of Events

Accepting New Patients

See SURGERY on Page 4

MEETINGCOMMUNITY HEALTHNEEDS EVERY DAYWCA Remains Committed To Its Mission

See COMMUNITY BENEFIT on Page 6

ON THE CUTTINGEDGE OFSURGERYThe Future Is Now forWCA’s Surgical Care Program

With a surgical program recognized among the lead-ers in the nation, WCA drives its program to even greatersuccess, by open-ing its doors to abrand new surgi-cal (OR) suite, ex-pressly designedwith the patient inmind.

“People overthe age of sixty-five are the fastestgrowing segmentof the populationwe serve,” saysBetsy Wright,WCA Presidentand CEO. “Weare leading the way in surgical care by creating an ORthat will meet their future needs for minimally invasivesurgeries, while enhancing their experience with us.”

“The quality of surgical care atWCA is excellent. We’veupgraded our program to state-of-the-art technology for everyspecialty. We provide the bestsurgical care and excellentcontinuity of care for ourpatients, without them everleaving the area.”

-Matthew Chang, M.D.

WCA Chairman, Department of Surgery

In an era when non-profit hospitals areunder increasing pressure to protecttheir tax-exempt status, the New YorkState Department of Health (DOH)recently commended WCA Hospital’s

Community Service Plan. They praised WCA for its manycharitable contributions and obligations that helped shape thehealth of our community last year.

“WCA has a proud tradition of reaching out to improvethe health and well being of those we serve,” said Betsy T.Wright, WCA President and CEO. “The return on ourcharitable investments is a better quality of life for the peoplewho place their trust in our care.”

In 2005, WCA Hospital investedmore than 4 million dollars in state-of-the-art renovations and advancedtechnology. -Source WCA Financial Report 2005